cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
XQuery Data Mining Tool for Campus Security

Choosing and implementing technologies to extract value from big data are constant challenges for business and governments alike. This paper describes the design and implementation of a data mining tool to analyze the XML data of the U.S. university campus crimes. The main aim of this tool is to extract data stored in XML documents and to provide summarized information that can help students in determining the safety level of a campus before accepting an admission. The tool can also be used by police officers or campus administrators in determining the crime rate across campuses and help them in implementing necessary measures to reduce the crime rate to ensure campus safety. This web based tool provides users with statistical data, different types of charts for visual analysis, and the results obtained from Apriori algorithm in the form of association rules.
Absolute quantitation of intracellular metabolite concentrations by an isotope ratio-based approach

This protocol provides a method for quantitating the intracellular concentrations of endogenous metabolites in cultured cells. The cells are grown in stable isotope-labeled media to near-complete isotopic enrichment and then extracted in organic solvent containing unlabeled internal standards in known concentrations. The ratio of endogenous metabolite to internal standard in the extract is determined using mass spectrometry (MS). The product of this ratio and the unlabeled standard amount equals the amount of endogenous metabolite present in the cells. The cellular concentration of the metabolite can then be calculated on the basis of intracellular volume of the extracted cells. The protocol is exemplified using Escherichia coli and primary human fibroblasts fed uniformly with (13)C-labeled carbon sources, with detection of (13)C-assimilation by liquid chromatography-tandem MS. It enables absolute quantitation of several dozen metabolites over approximately 1 week of work.
The regulation of food intake by selective stimulation of the type 3 melanocortin receptor (MC3R).

High levels of binding sites for melanocortin peptides exist within the arcuate nucleus, and a functional response to melanocortin peptides has been demonstrated in arcuate POMC neurons. Because the MC3R is thought to function as an inhibitory autoreceptor on POMC neurons, we reasoned that peripheral injections of MC3R-specific agonists would act within the arcuate nucleus to inhibit POMC neurons and thereby stimulate feeding. We demonstrate that the peptidergic MC3R agonist, d-Trp8-γ-MSH, stimulates feeding via the MC3R when injected peripherally. These data provide the first evidence that feeding can be stimulated by peripheral injection of MC3R-specific agonists.
Calcium phosphate mineralization.

Although it is often assumed that the thermodynamically most stable hydroxyapatite is a suitable prototype for biological minerals, it is now generally accepted that other phases such as dicalcium phosphate dihydrate and octacalcium phosphate as well as defect apatites and carbonated apatites may participate. The Constant Composition kinetics method has been used to show that defect aatites may be formed with non-stoichiometric coefficients that depend upon the pH of the growth medium. Important factors in analyzing these experiments are the initial surface modification and ion exchange processes involving hydrogen and calcium ions following inoculation of the supersaturated solutions. Proteins and other macromolecules which may inhibit the rate of growth of calcium phosphates in supersaturated solutions are able to enhance the nucleation of these phases when immobilized on inert surfaces.
Dissolution and preservation of Antarctic diatoms and the effect on sediment thanatocoenoses

Abstract Comparison of Southern Ocean diatom populations from (i) surface ocean production, (ii) underlying Antarctic sediments, and (iii) laboratory dissolution experiments demonstrates that dissolution can account for the temporal and spatial variations in sedimentary diatom assemblages observed in Southern Ocean sediments. Increasing dissolution causes relative depletions in N. kerguelensis (K), enrichments in T. lentiginosa (L), and slight enrichments in E. antarctica (A). This reflects the relative susceptibility to dissolution of the three species that dominate Antarctic sediments. We have devised a preservation index for the Southern Ocean based on the ratio K (K + L) to estimate relative extents of dissolution and applied it to natural assemblages. Holocene Southern Ocean sediments display increasing opal preservation toward higher latitudes, but south of the Antarctic Polar Front preservation decreases in the order: well preserved = SE Indian > S. Atlantic ∼ SW Indian > SE Pacific = poorly preserved. Dissolution also accounts for the pattern of diatom assemblages in the last glacial maximum (LGM) sediments of the Indian and Pacific sectors, but in the Atlantic, increased E. antarctica abundances at LGM must have resulted from an increase in surface ocean production of this species. Holocene and LGM diatoms in Atlantic and Pacific sector sediments are equally well preserved, but in the Indian sectors, Holocene sediments are better preserved than those of LGM age. Paleoceanographic and paleoclimatic transfer functions derived from factor analyses of variations in the sedimentary abundances of these three diatoms have ignored the effects of differential dissolution on thanatocoenosis and thus should be interpreted with caution.
Profile of callers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention national sexually transmitted diseases hotline.

Background and Objectives: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funds a national telephone hotline as a source of information for persons with questions about sexually transmitted diseases. Hotline callers were last surveyed in 1980. Goal: To determine the current profile of callers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National sexually transmitted diseases hotline, assess their concerns, and identify their sources for the hotline telephone number. Study Design: The survey sampled 1,100 callers: 19 per day distributed across 3 work shifts using a systematic random selection process. Nine short-answer questions were asked, and passively collected data were recorded. Results: The survey showed callers' demographics (68.4% white); socioeconomics (47.6% with incomes <$15,000); residence (79.8% urban); information requests (20.7% general sexually transmitted diseases); concerns about exposure or infection (76.5% concerned they might be infected); acceptance of referrals (35.7 % to public clinics); and hotline telephone number sources (20.4% from pamphlets). Conclusions: The hotline is called by persons from all segments of the public and addresses their concerns.
Acidity in air and water in a case of warm frontal precipitation

Abstract The acidity of dry air south of a warm front was measured before it ascended producing a large area of warm frontal precipitation. Comparison of the chemical compositions of the dry air and precipitation at cloud base suggest a significant production of both sulfuric and nitric acids in the cloud. Below-cloud processes did not appear to significantly affect the concentration of acids in rain at ground level. Rates of nitric acid and sulfuric acid production in the cloud are estimated.
Shifting global strategies of US foreign food aid, 1955–1990

Abstract This study examines the use of US food aid as an element of American foreign policy over the course of the post-war era. Seven policy periods are identified within the post-war era, each representing the foreign agenda of successive presidential administrations. The selective geographical allocation of food aid is largely a function of the locus of foreign priorities at any given time, with the result that the shifting global patterns of countries receiving food aid since World War II reflect the spatial dynamics of American foreign policy. Those favored by US food assistance tend to be pivotal states within a regional theater of conflict, regardless of the incidence of hunger or the ability of the local economy to absorb these commodities.
Resetting the clock

In this issue of Blood , Alexander and colleagues describe the reversal of the abnormalities in adaptive immunity following ASCT for SLE. These much needed data provide mechanistic support to immunoablative therapeutic approaches in SLE. The rationale for autologous hematopoietic stem cell
Comparison of human and rodent lung dosimetry models for particle clearance and retention.

Interspecies differences in the kinetics and/or mechanisms of particle retention can influence the amount and location of particle retention in the lungs, which can also influence the tissue response to a given particle burden. Dosimetric models may be used to adjust for differences in the exposure-dose relationships in different species, thus allowing for comparison of lung responses at equivalent doses. Although the rat is one of the most frequently used animal models for assessing the risk of exposures to hazardous substances in humans, few data are available for comparison of human and animal responses to inhaled particles. A biologically-based human dosimetric lung model was developed to describe the fate of respirable particles in the lungs of humans, using data from U.S. coal miners and assumptions about the overloading of alveolar clearance from studies in rats. This model includes alveolar, interstitial, and hilar lymph node compartments. The form of the model that provides the best fit to the lu...
ABCA12 maintains the epidermal lipid permeability barrier by facilitating formation of ceramide linoleic esters.

Harlequin ichthyosis is a congenital scaling syndrome of the skin in which affected infants have epidermal hyperkeratosis and a defective permeability barrier. Mutations in the gene encoding a member of the ABCA transporter family, ABCA12, have been linked to harlequin ichthyosis, but the molecular function of the protein is unknown. To investigate the activity of ABCA12, we generated Abca12 null mice and analyzed the impact on skin function and lipid content. Abca12-/- mice are born with a thickened epidermis and die shortly after birth, as water rapidly evaporates from their skin. In vivo skin proliferation measurements suggest a lack of desquamation of the skin cells, rather than enhanced proliferation of basal layer keratinocytes, accounts for the 5-fold thickening of the Abca12-/- stratum corneum. Electron microscopy revealed a loss of the lamellar permeability barrier in Abca12-/- skin. This was associated with a profound reduction in skin linoleic esters of long-chain ω-hydroxyceramides and a corresponding increase in their glucosyl ceramide precursors. Because ω-hydroxyceramides are required for the barrier function of the skin, these results establish that ABCA12 activity is required for the generation of long-chain ceramide esters that are essential for the development of normal skin structure and function.
Measurement of vertical strain and velocity at Siple Dome, Antarctica, with optical sensors

As part of a larger program to measure and model vertical strain around Siple Dome on the West Antarctic ice sheet, we developed a new sensor to accurately and stably record displacements. The sensors consist of optical fibers, encased in thin-wall stainless-steel tubes, frozen into holes drilled with hot water, and stretched from the surface to various depths (up to 985 m) in the ice sheet. An optical system, connected annually to the fibers, reads out their absolute lengths with a precision of about 2 mm. Two sets of five sensors were installed in the 1997/98 field season: one set is near the Siple Dome core hole (an ice divide), and a second set is on the flank 7 km to the north (the ice thickness at both sites is approximately 1000 m). The optical-fiber length observations taken in four field seasons spanning a 3 year interval reveal vertical strain rates ranging from -229 ± 4 ppm a -1 to - 7 ± 9 ppm a. In addition to confirming a non-linear constitutive relationship for deep ice, our analysis of the strain rates indicates the ice sheet is thinning at the flank and is in steady state at the divide.
An updated open-loop control strategy for socio-economic systems

The appropriateness of an updated open-loop stochastic control strategy for the regulation of socio-economic systems will be discussed. A near-optimal solution procedure is suggested which involves transforming the stochastic control problem into an adaptive control problem. The results of an application to regional development planning will also be discussed.
Hardware-in-the-loop for power and telecomunications co-simulation with applications

A hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing capability for both power and telecom inputs of a power device will be presented. Three power simulation examples will be shown in MathWorks Simulink including power factor correction with distributed generation, variable loads in a microgrid, and grid healing in a distribution system. A telecom simulation of a 30 node communication network will be shown in OPNET.
Major Depressive Disorder

In summary, MDD is a highly prevalent major medical whose pathophysiology is still poorly understood. MDD is often recurrent or chronic, and evidence suggests that genetic factors partially influence overall risk of illness but also influence the sensitivity of individuals to the depressogenic effects of environmental adversity. Treatment with antidepressants, ECT, or certain forms of psychotherapy is fairly effective, but a substantial proportion of patients do not respond adequately, thereby requiring subsequent interventions. There are still many unanswered questions about MDD: (1) What are the susceptibility genes and their environmental modifiers? (2) What are the pathophysiologies of the neural systems underlying this complex disorder? (3) How do we understand the therapeutic mechanisms underlying the currently available pharmacological and ECT approaches? And (4) how do we improve our success rate in treating this highly disabling medical condition and how can we develop more rational algorithms for those who do not respond to standard treatments? Future investigations need to keep these issues in mind.‡To whom correspondence should be addressed (e-mail: mfava@partners.org [M. F.], kendler@hsc.vcu.edu [K. S. K.]).
Differences in UDP-glucuronosyltransferase activities in congenic inbred rats homozygous and heterozygous for the jaundice locus.

Abstract The genie transfer of the jaundice locus (jj) from the Gunn rat into the inbred RHA/+ + rat produced congenic inbred homozygous RHA/jj rats which lacked detectable bilirubin UDP-glucuronosyltransferase activity. Congenic inbred RHA/j+ rats contained half the activity for bilirubin of the RHA/+ + strain. Constitutive activities for glucuronidation of sixteen substrates of twenty-one tested were inherited additively. Approximately seven groups were discernible based on the defect in activity for these substrates in the RHA/jj strain. Activity for 1-hydroxybenzo[ a ]pyrene was, after that for bilirubin, the most severely reduced (188-fold), while no differences in the glucuronidation of three androgens and of the 6-hydroxy-, 10-hydroxy-, and 11-hydroxybenzo[ a ]pyrenes were observed. The conjugation of other substrates was affected to an intermediate extent. Most of the twenty-one glucuronidating activities were induced by phenobarbital in the RHA/jj strain as well as in the RHA/ + + and RHA/j + strains. Activities for 9-hydroxybenzo[ a ]pyrene and for the 2-hydroxy- and 4-hydroxybiphenyls were induced such that the defect was overcome, and the RHA/jj had the same level of activity as the RHA/+ + strain. Cytochrome p-450 content and cytochrome c reductase and aminopyrine demethylase activities were unaffected in the congenic strains. Cytochrome p-450 content and cytochrome c reductase activity were induced ~2.5- and 2.0-fold, respectively, by phenobarbital while aminopyrine demethylase activity was induced about 30% in each strain. The congenic inbred rats should provide a stable and reproducible genetic model for studying defective UDP-glucuronosyltransferase specified by the jaundice (jj) locus
Computerized assessment of pulmonary fissure integrity using high resolution CT

Purpose: Knowledge of pulmonary interlobar fissure integrity is of interest in a number of clinical and investigational applications. The authors developed and tested a high resolution CT based automated computerized scheme for this purpose. Methods: The fissure integrity assessment scheme consists of the following steps: (1) Fissure detection, (2) individual fissure identification, (3) fissure type determination, (4) “complete” interlobe surface estimation, and (5) fissure integrity estimation. For evaluation purposes, 50 anonymized chest CT examinations were ascertained and the complete and “incomplete” regions of the fissures of interest were manually marked by two experienced radiologists. After applying the scheme to the same examinations, differences among fissure percent completeness estimates based on the radiologists’ manual markings and the automated computerized scheme were computed and compared. Results: Average differences in estimated fissure percent completeness (integrity) between the results of the computerized scheme and that based on each of the two radiologists’ markings were 6.88%±5.86%, 9.57%±7.77%, and 4.19%±5.64% for the right major fissures, the right minor fissures, and the left major fissures, respectively. The differences between results based on radiologists’ markings for the same fissures were 4.27%±3.32%, 7.02%±5.54%, and 4.23%±4.93%, respectively. The difference among the three matched measurement sets for each fissure were statistically significant (Friedman’s test, p≤0.005) but paired comparisons showed that much of the observed difference was related to inter-reader differences rather than reader-computerized scheme differences. Computerized estimates were correlated with each of the radiologist’s estimates (Spearman, p<0.0001). Conclusions: While variability between readers-based estimates of fissure integrity was smaller than differences between the computerized scheme and each of the readers, the result reported here are quite encouraging in that the magnitude of these differences were in the same magnitude, demonstrating the feasibility of using a computerized scheme for this purpose.
Lipid bilayers: an essential environment for the understanding of membrane proteins

Membrane protein structure and function is critically dependent on the surrounding environment. Consequently, utilizing a membrane mimetic that adequately models the native membrane environment is essential. A range of membrane mimetics are available but none generates a better model of native aqueous, interfacial, and hydrocarbon core environments than synthetic lipid bilayers. Transmembrane α-helices are very stable in lipid bilayers because of the low water content and low dielectric environment within the bilayer hydrocarbon core that strengthens intrahelical hydrogen bonds and hinders structural rearrangements within the transmembrane helices. Recent evidence from solid-state NMR spectroscopy illustrates that transmembrane α-helices, both in peptides and full-length proteins, appear to be highly uniform based on the observation of resonance patterns in PISEMA spectra. Here, we quantitate for the first time through simulations what we mean by highly uniform structures. Indeed, helices in transmembrane peptides appear to have backbone torsion angles that are uniform within ± 4° . While individual helices can be structurally stable due to intrahelical hydrogen bonds, interhelical interactions within helical bundles can be weak and nonspecific, resulting in multiple packing arrangements. Some helical bundles have the capacity through their amino acid composition for hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions to stabilize the interhelical conformations and solid-state NMR data is shown here for both of these situations. Solid-state NMR spectroscopy is unique among the techniques capable of determining three-dimensional structures of proteins in that it provides the ability to characterize structurally the membrane proteins at very high resolution in liquid crystalline lipid bilayers. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computing: A vision for data science.

To get the best out of big data, funding agencies should develop shared tools for optimizing discovery and train a new breed of researchers, says Chris A. Mattmann.
Neonatal hamster molar tooth development: extraction and characterization of amelogenins, enamelins, and soluble dentin proteins.

Amelogenins, enamelins, and soluble dentin proteins were sequentially separated under dissociative conditions from morphologically characterized molar tooth germs of 4-, 6-, and 7-day-old hamsters. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic, gel filtration chromatographic, and amino acid compositional data of neonatal hamster amelogenin extracts were in general agreement with those obtained from fetal bovine enamel under similar extraction conditions. As development progressed (e.g., 4 vs. 7 days of life), changes in amelogenin proteins were manifested by altered values of all biochemical parameters measured. A high molecular weight (∼160,000–200,000 daltons) Stains-All-positive protein band was observed for all hamster enamelin extracts on SDS gels. Amino acid compositional data from this “enamel crystal protein,” partially purified by dissociative gel-filtration chromatography, are presented. The hamster dentin phosphoprotein was partially purified by ion-exchange chromatography in 7M urea. The molecular weight (75,000–80,000 daltons) and amino acid composition of this protein were similar to those of rat incisor dentin phosphoprotein, but different from those of the fetal bovine phosphoprotein.
Synthesis of fluorinated copoly(carbosiloxane)s by Pt-catalyzed hydrosilylation copolymerization

Abstract A series of new 3,3,3-trifluoropropyl substituted copoly(carbosiloxane)s have been prepared by Pt-catalyzed step-growth hydrosilylation copolymerization of 1,9-dihydrido-1,1,3,5,7,9,9-heptamethyl-3,5,7-tris(3′,3′,3′-trifluoropropyl)pentasiloxane ( I ) with various α,ω-divinylsilanes and siloxanes. The structures of the copoly(carbosiloxane)s have been determined by 1 H, 13 C, 29 Si, and 19 F NMR as well as IR spectroscopy. The molecular weight distributions ( M w / M n ) of the copolymers have been characterized by GPC and their thermal properties measured by DSC and TGA.
General-purpose modular hardware and software framework for mobile outdoor augmented reality applications in engineering

This paper presents a reusable, general-purpose, mobile augmented reality (AR) framework developed to address the critical and repetitive challenges specific to visualization in outdoor AR. In all engineering applications of AR developed thus far, basic functionality that supports accurate user registration, maximizes the range of user motion, and enables data input and output has had to be repeatedly re-implemented. This is primarily due to the fact that designed methods have been traditionally custom created for their respective applications and are not generic enough to be readily shared and reused by others. The objective of this research was to remedy this situation by designing and implementing a reusable and pluggable hardware and software framework that can be used in any AR application without the need to re-implement low-level communication interfaces with selected hardware. The underlying methods of hardware communication as well as the object-oriented design (OOD) of the reusable interface are presented. Details on the validation of framework reusability and pluggability are also described.
Digital replantation at the level of the distal interphalangeal joint and the distal phalanx

Forty-two complete, single digit amputations at the level of the distal interphalangeal joint or distal phalanx are reviewed. Viability was 81%. Operative time averaged 4.6 hours. Average age of patients was 28 years and 90% were male. Forty-eight percent of the amputations involved the thumb; 79% were at the distal interphalangeal joint and 21% were more distal. One artery was repaired in 64% of replantations, two or three veins were repaired in 61%, and veins grafts were used in 19% of cases. Sixty-nine percent of the crush-avulsion injuries succeeded compared with 89% of lacerations. Two-point discrimination averaged 10 mm and proximal interphalangeal motion averaged 91 degrees. Patients returned to work an average of 2.5 months after replantation and none required additional procedures. The average total cost of treatment was $7500.00. Compared with conventional procedures, disadvantages of replantation at or distal to the distal interphalangeal joint are that it does require microsurgical training, initial operating time is longer, and it is more expensive. Advantages are that it is a one-stage procedure that gives good distal soft tissue coverage, adequate sensibility without painful neuroma, good metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joint motion; it preserves the nail, maintains digit length, is cosmetically pleasing, and the patient is satisfied.
Computer jobs through training: a final project report

Two years ago we presented a preliminary report on a computer-science training program for disadvantaged high school students and young adults which we had developed at the University of California at San Diego. At that time we had completed the construction of our mobile classroom facility and had tested our special hands-on curriculum on several small pilot classes, but we had not completed any full job-training courses and had only limited experience upon which to base conclusions and recommendations about the effectiveness of such training.
Characterization of Epoxy Prepreg Curing Process

ABSTRACT The isothermal and dynamic curing process of epoxy composite was studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and other techniques. The variation of degree of curing with time and temperature was analyzed. The degree of curing was limited at any particular temperature because of the diffusion control in isothermal curing process. Half-life and maximum cure time were discussed in the analysis of the isothermal curing process. The modeling result from isothermal curing process indicated that degree of curing calculated with diffusion control agreed well with experimental data. The degree of curing calculated by two methods for dynamic curing process had a deviation with experimental data in either earlier or later cure stages. The relationship between T g and the degree of curing was described by two models. Both models agreed well with the experimental T g . The isothermal curing diagrams of time–temperature–transformation (TTT) and conversion–temperat...
The Uses and Usefulness of Binomial Probability Paper

Abstract This article describes certain uses of Binomial Probability Paper. This graph paper was designed to facilitate the employment of R. A. Fisher's inverse sine transformation for proportions. The transformation itself is designed to adjust binomially distributed data so that the variance will not depend on the true value of the proportion p, but only on the sample size n. In addition, binomial data so transformed more closely approximate normality than the raw data. The usefulness of plotting binomial data in rectangular coordinates, using a square-root scale for the number observed in each category, was first pointed out by Fisher and Mather [10]. The graph paper under discussion 1 is specially ruled to make this mode of plotting both simple and rapid. A graduated quadrant makes the angular transformation (p = cos2 φ or p = sin2 φ) easily available at the same time. Most tests of counted data can be made quickly, easily and with what is usually adequate accuracy with this paper. Some 22 examples ar...
Determination of boron using the B(α,p)C nuclear reaction at incident energies near 3 MeV

Abstract A technique for determining boron content of thin films using the B(α,p)C reaction on both isotopes of boron is described. An incident alpha energy near 3 MeV is used and emitted protons are detected at 135° lab angle. A thin film containing a known areal density of boron is required for calibration. A comparison is made between this method and conventional elastic scattering of 4 He + ions for boron determination in thin films containing heavy elements or backings. We also present relative yield data on protons from the 10 B(α,p) 13 C and 11 B(α,p) 14 C reactinos at 135° lab angle between 1.4 and 3.3 MeV.
Relativistic one-pion exchange nuclear potential

Abstract The exact relativistic one-pion exchange nuclear potential is derived in the centre-of-mass system, and the relationship between the relativistic potential and the Schrodinger equation is discussed.
Mixed-method research for child outcomes in intersex conditions.

Intersex encompasses a range of inborn errors of metabolism and dysmorphisms, having in common anomalous genitalia. The neonatal diagnosis may be unclear but genital atypia is not. Reconstructive surgery has been the standard of care for more than four decades. Although the conditions are ageless, selfdescriptions of long-term effects are rare, as are the anomalies themselves. For the purposes of this discussion, neonatal genital appearance is meant to reflect inadequate androgen effects in genetic males or inappropriate androgen effects in genetic females. This discussion briefly describes what is known about children’s experiences of and with intersex and intersex treatments, and how such experiences are knowable.
O(4) on F4

Abstract The Higgs particle bound is estimated on an F 4 lattice. For 10% and 5% cutoff effects, the upper bounds are 670 Gev and 640 Gev respectively.
SMALL CELL CARCINOMA OF THE ESOPHAGUS: THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS M. D. ANDERSON CANCER CENTER EXPERIENCE AND LITERATURE REVIEW

BACKGROUND Small cell carcinoma of the esophagus is a rare disease with aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. Multidrug chemotherapy remains the treatment of choice given the systemic nature of the disease. Radiotherapy has been used concurrently with chemotherapy to enhance local control. The role of surgery in patients with limited disease is controversial. Limited data exist regarding the pathologic response of the tumor to chemoradiotherapy. The goal of the current study was to analyze the outcome of 8 patients treated at the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, with particular focus on the histologic findings of the resected specimens. METHODS Patient records were reviewed for demographics, presenting symptoms, diagnostic modalities, disease stage, treatment, and outcome. RESULTS Two of eight patients had metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis and received combination chemotherapy. Six patients had limited stage disease. Four received combined modality treatment including esophagectomy, and two received radiotherapy only. All four patients who underwent esophagectomy had pure small cell carcinoma histology at diagnosis and received preoperative combination chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy. None of the four patients achieved a pathologic complete remission. Two patients had residual small cell carcinoma; one patient had squamous cell carcinoma and one adenocarcinoma. The median overall survival for the group of patients was 12.5 months (range, 5–57 months). CONCLUSIONS In selected patients with limited stage disease, surgery with curative intent should be considered as part of multimodality treatment. Cancer 2000;88:262–7. © 2000 American Cancer Society.
Influence of stimulus preference and feedback delay on extinction of operant communication behavior

Abstract This study explored patterns of extinction during operant responding to look and listen to a communication partner by the media of conjugately-programmed closed-circuit audio and television. Results of the study were: 1. (1) operant responses to look and listen to a communication partner extinguished at different rates; 2. (2) two primary factors were thought to explain differences in extinction rate. These were (a) the differential reinforcement value of looking and listening during communication (listening is more reinforcing in communication than looking; the more reinforcing a consequence of behavior is, the slower will be its extinction); (b) the differential quantity of feedback given Ss during operant looking and listening (responding to look was followed by immediate response feedback, while responding to listen was not; the more immediate the response feedback, the more rapid the extinction).
Genomic analysis of acute leukemia.

Summary Acute leukemia is the commonest childhood cancer and a major cause of morbidity from hematologic malignancies in adults. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is commonest in children, and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is more frequent in adults. Apart from childhood ALL, the prognosis of acute leukemia is suboptimal, with many patients experiencing relapse, which carries a poor prognosis, or toxicities from nonspecific therapies. Recent years have witnessed great interest in the application of high-resolution, genome wide approaches to the study of acute leukemia. These studies have identified multiple novel genetic alterations targeting critical cellular pathways that contribute to leukemogenesis, including alterations of genes regulting lymphoid development, tumor suppressors, apoptosis regulators, and oncogenes. These studies have also delineated novel genetic alterations that are associated with prognosis, and have demonstrated substantial evolution in patterns of genetic alterations from diagnosis to relapse, indicating that specific genetic changes determine resistance to therapy in ALL. Overall, fewer recurring alterations have been identified in AML. These studies have demonstrated the power of genome-wide approaches to identify new lesions in acute leukemia, and suggest that ongoing genomic analyses, including deep resequencing and epigenetic analysis, will continue to yield novel, clinically relevant insights into the pathogenesis of this disease.
Magnetic studies on ternary silicide: NdCo9Si2

Abstract NdCo9Si2 has been synthesized and studied over the temperature range 4.2 to 500 K and at magnetic fields up to 90 kOe. The material is found to crystallize in the tetragonal BaCd11-type structure, which has four formula units per unit cell. Magnetic studies indicate that NdCo9Si2 is ferromagnetic with Tc=454 K. The Co moment is determined to be 0.9μB at 4.2 K. Magnetization measurements on aligned powders indicate observable anisotropy but because of the anomalous nature of the magnetization versus field measurements, values of the anisotropy field (HA) cannot be reliably determined. HA at 295 K is roughly estimated to be 12 kOe. This material does not seem to offer promise for permanent magnet fabrication.
Non-oxidative decarboxylation of glycine derivatives by a peroxidase.

Under anaerobic, peroxide-free conditions (pH 5.5, 25 °C), horseradish peroxidase (HRP) catalyzes the rapid, non-oxidatve decarboxylation of N-alkyl-N-phenylglycine derivatives to the corresponding N-alkyl-N-methylanilines in 100% yield. When the reaction is conducted in D2O buffer, the product contains a single deuterium in the methyl group. The reactions are very fast compared to the oxidative decarboxylation of the same substrates under standard peroxidatic conditions (i.e., hydrogen peroxide added, air present) and in fact are inhibited by peroxide and oxygen. To account for these unprecedented observations, we propose a cyclic mechanism in which ferric HRP abstracts an electron from the substrate, giving an aminium ion intermediate that decarboxylates; protonation of the resulting α-aminoradical on carbon gives an aminium ion that is reduced by ferrous HRP to complete the cycle.
Reactivity and interrelationship of intermediates in the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl acetate catalysed by chymotrypsin.

KINETIC studies by Gutfreund and Sturtevant1 suggest that p-nitrophenyl acetate reacts with chymotrypsin rapidly at a pH greater than 6.5 to form monoacetyl chymotrypsin (AC–I) and that AC–I is then deacylated slowly. The kinetic observations are consistent with the esterification of a single serine hydroxyl of the enzyme2. In contrast, spectroscopic studies3 of the deacylation of monoacetyl chymotrypsin formed at pH 5.0 and isolated according to the procedure of Balls and Wood4, (AC–A), show that when AC–A is brought to pH 9.0, a rapid increase in absorption at 245 mµ occurs which is followed by slow decay of the absorption peak. Since both the absorption peak and its rate of decay appeared characteristic for N-acetyl imidazole, Dixon and Neurath3 suggested that the deacylation of monoacetyl chymotrypsin proceeds by a rapid intramolecular shift of the acetyl group from a serine oxygen to an imidazole nitrogen of the enzyme (AC–II), and that the rate-limiting step of the enzymatic reaction is the base-catalysed hydrolysis of N-acetyl imidazole. Recently, however, we have observed5 that AC–I and AC–Aare deacylated at different rates as measured by the liberation of p-nitrophenol from p-nitrophenyl acetate catalysed by AC–I and AC–A, and that AC–I is converted to AC–A under the conditions used in the isolation procedure4.
In the current era, complete revascularization improves survival after coronary artery bypass surgery.

Background Complete revascularization has been the standard for coronary bypass grafting. However, surgical intervention has evolved with increasing use of arterial conduits and off-pump techniques. Methods Patients undergoing non-redo bypass surgery from January 1998 through December 2000 were followed up with questionnaires and telephone contact. Incomplete revascularization was defined as absence of bypass grafts placed to a coronary territory supplied by a vessel with 50% or greater stenosis. Results One thousand thirty-four patients were followed for a mean of 3.3 ± 1.6 years. Complete revascularization was found in 937 (90.6%) patients, and incomplete revascularization was found in 97 (9.4%) patients. Eight hundred twenty-seven (80.4%) patients underwent on-pump operations, and 207 (19.6%) underwent off-pump operations. Incomplete revascularization was more prevalent in off-pump versus on-pump operations (21.7% vs 6.3%, P P P = .019), and incomplete revascularization (hazard ratio, 1.85; P = .040) predicted an increased hazard (risk) of cardiac death. Left internal thoracic artery (hazard ratio, 0.38; P = .047), right internal thoracic artery (hazard ratio, 0.25; P = .019), and radial artery (hazard ratio, 0.36; P P P P = .101) and was essentially absent in off-pump versus on-pump operations if complete revascularization was achieved in both cases (93.6% vs 93.1%, P > .200). Conclusions Complete revascularization and arterial grafting improve 5-year survival. Off-pump techniques do not affect survival. Complete revascularization should be performed whenever possible.
Novel molecular beacon assays for DNA cleavage reactions

DNA cleavage reactions are important in both cellular processes and biotechnology. Conventional assays are discontinuous, time consuming and laborious, and there is a great demand for continuous, convenient and sensitive assays for these reactions. Here we introduce a novel method for the monitoring of the cleavage reactions in real time. Molecular beacon is used as a substrate for the single strand specific DNA nucleases. The cleavage of the molecular beacon by S1 nuclease is demonstrated as an example for this method. The cleavage causes a great increase in fluorescence intensity of the molecular beacon, giving a signal-to-noise ratio of about 40. This assay is sensitive, continuous and easy to use. It can be applied to the detection of DNA nucleases, the characterization of these enzymes and for detailed study of the mechanisms of the cleavage reactions. The influence of solution conditions, such as macromolecular crowding, on the cleavage reactions has been studied.
Data reduction in large clinical trials

The problems of analyzing data from large clinical trials are considered. Specifically, variable selection, lack of independence, analysis of repeated observations, alternate measurements of similar phenomena, and exclusion of variables unrelated to treatment are considered in the context of multivariate data obtained in a clinical therapy trial in multiple sclerosis (MS). The criteria considered are: 1) Dropping variables having low “signal to noise” ratio. 2)Maximizing prediction. 3)Maximizing separation between treatment groups, and. 4)Reducing the dimension of multivariate data. Analyses are described and illustrated in the selection of variables from the ACTH clinical trial. The selection of “important” variables was validated by means of split-half analyses. The analytical approach, which has general application, and the implications of the analysis on the reduced data set are discussed.
Effect of deposition methods on dielectric breakdown strength of PECVD low-k carbon doped silicon dioxide dielectric thin films

Abstract The effect of deposition methods on dielectric breakdown strength of PECVD low-k dielectric carbon doped silicon dioxide films is investigated. I–V measurements were performed using metal-insulator semiconductor structures for carbon doped silicon dioxide thin films with various thicknesses by single deposition station and six sequential deposition systems. I–t measurements are also performed for films with the thickness of 32 nm prepared using both deposition methods. Comparison studies have been carried out for the thickness dependence, temperature dependence, conduction mechanism and time dependence of dielectric breakdown for carbon doped silicon dioxide with single layer and six sub-layers. Results demonstrated that both films follow the newly obtained relationship between dielectric strength E B and thickness d , i.e. E B ∝( d − d c ) − n , but with a lower exponential factor n and a larger thickness limit d c for films with six sub-layers. It is also demonstrated that films with six sub-layers have a higher dielectric strength in all the thickness and temperature ranges, a thickness independent thermal behavior and a longer lifetime under constant voltage stressing. This indicates that by tuning the deposition methods smaller thickness with desired dielectric properties can be achieved.
Effect of emphasis on threshold in angle modulation systems

Emphasis can be used in angle modulation systems (frequency and phase modulation) to improve receiver output signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). It is shown that the threshold input SNR increases when emphasis is used. The increase may be well over one decibel, depending on system parameters, when the message is Gaussian and random.
Molecular biology of feather morphogenesis: A testable model for evo‐devo research

Darwin's theory describes the principles that are responsible for evolutionary change of organisms and their attributes. The actual mechanisms, however, need to be studied for each species and each organ separately. Here we have investigated the mechanisms underlying these principles in the avian feather. Feathers comprise one of the most complex and diverse epidermal organs as demonstrated by their shape, size, patterned arrangement and pigmentation. Variations can occur at several steps along each level of organization, leading to highly diverse forms and functions. Feathers develop gradually during ontogeny through a series of steps that may correspond to the evolutionary steps that were taken during the phylogeny from a reptilian ancestor to birds. These developmental steps include 1) the formation of feather tract fields on the skin surfaces; 2) periodic patterning of the individual feather primordia within the feather tract fields; 3) feather bud morphogenesis establishing anterio-posterior (along the cranio-caudal axis) and proximo-distal axes; 4) branching morphogenesis to create the rachis, barbs and barbules within a feather bud; and 5) gradual modulations of these basic morphological parameters within a single feather or across a feather tract. Thus, possibilities for variation in form and function of feathers occur at every developmental step. In this paper, principles guiding feather tract formation, distributions of individual feathers within the tracts and variations in feather forms are discussed at a cellular and molecular level.
A mixed queueing network model of mobility in a campus wireless network

Although wireless networks have become ubiquitous, surprisingly few models of user-level mobility have been developed and validated against traces of measured user behavior. In this paper, we develop and validate a simple mixed queueing network model of user mobility among access points in a campus network. We identify two classes of users, an open and a closed class, corresponding to mobile users that visit the network for a short time before departure, and users that are always resident in the network during the observation period. Using CRAWDAD traces of user-access-point affiliation over time, we compare model-predicted performance with the performance actually observed in the traces, and find that such a mixed queueing model can indeed be used to accurately predict a number of performance measures of interest.
Crossing the border for abortion services: the Tijuana-San Diego connection.

In this study we created a profile of women living on both sides of the US-Mexico border who terminated pregnancies in San Diego at the largest clinic providing abortion services in California. Sociodemographic and reproductive history data were collected on all 1,558 women terminating pregnancies in 1996. Using country of residence, language use, and surname, the sample was stratified into four comparison groups: Tijuana residents, U.S. Non-Latinas, U.S. English-speaking Latinas, and U.S. Spanish-speaking Latinas. These data were supplemented by interviews with field experts. Compared to U.S. residents, crossborder abortion seekers were older, had healthier habits, were less likely to terminate in the second trimester, and more likely to pay cash for their procedure. While crossborder abortion seekers in San Diego face multiple barriers to access abortions, they posed no increased risk for complications, nor did they represent a financial burden on California.
Destruction of a Destructor: A New Avenue for Cancer Therapeutics Targeting the Wnt Pathway

A new study in Nature has identified a small molecule inhibitor for the oncogenic Wnt/beta-catenin pathway that is responsible for many human cancers. This inhibitor targets an unsuspected cellular enzyme, Tankyrase, which controls the destruction of a beta-catenin destructor.
Unsupervised clustering in Hough space for identification of partially occluded objects

An automated approach for template-free identification of partially occluded objects is presented. The contour of each relevant object in the analyzed scene is modeled with an approximating polygon whose edges are then projected into the Hough space. A structurally adaptive self-organizing map neural network generates clusters of collinear and/or parallel edges, which are used as the basis for identifying the partially occluded objects within each polygonal approximation. Results on a number of cases under different conditions are provided.
A novel dynamic calibration approach for current-steering DACS

With increasing applications in telecommunication systems, high speed and high accuracy digital-to-analog converters (DAC) are becoming more and more important. Of particular interest is the dynamic performance at high frequencies. The dynamic performance is often characterized by the spurious free dynamic range (SFDR) and this is limited by the spectral harmonics that are mainly attributable to system nonlinearities. In this paper, the dynamic nonlinearity in the time domain is analyzed and its affect on the output waveform is discussed. A novel approach is presented to calibrate the dynamic errors. The validity of this approach is demonstrated with a 10-bit current steering DAC. Simulation results show that the nonlinear harmonics can be dramatically reduced and SFDR can be correspondingly improved by using this calibration scheme.