cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wideband Imaging Array Using Orthogonally Fed Dual Varactor-Loaded Elliptical Slots

Recent advances in several technological fronts have made it possible to design and develop real-time microwave imaging systems (cameras) for use in a wide range of applications. Proper design of the individual antenna array element in these systems is of critical importance. Furthermore, wideband versions of these imaging systems, which are capable of one-sided operation and in conjunction with advanced synthetic aperture radar imaging algorithms, can produce high-resolution 3-D holographical images. In this paper, an orthogonally fed, small elliptical dual varactor-loaded slot antenna, operating in K-band (18–26.5 GHz), is designed for use in such imaging systems. The feed design uses a coplanar waveguide with a 90° bend without a direct dc connection to the antenna. This feed structure accommodates effective placement of required switches while enabling one-sided measurement. Finally, the slot is loaded with two varactor diodes resulting in 3.5 GHz of bandwidth suitable for high-resolution microwave 3-D holographical imaging. The design of this slot and a (1/4) array of such slots is presented. Two arrays are fabricated and used independently, as well as simultaneously, to form (mono- and bistatic, respectively) imaging results.
Rapid control of foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks: is RNAi a possible solution?

RNA interference (RNAi) is a mechanism of gene silencing that is being examined as an antiviral strategy in mammalian cells. Chen et al. have used this approach to examine its potential against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), an extremely contagious viral disease of cloven-hoofed animals. This Research Focus discusses these experiments and comments on the possible use of RNAi, as well as other antiviral strategies, as a rapid method of FMD control.
Evidence for the involvement of proteinases in the differentiation of haploid cells ofPhysarum flavicomum

Abstract When haploid cells of Physarum flavicomum reach the end of the growth phase in liquid semidefined medium they differentiate to dormant microcysts. Several compounds, effective as proteinase inhibitors in cell extracts, either blocked or delayed microcyst formation in semidefined medium. In addition, the compounds (except chloroquine) affected the conversion of swarm cells to myxamoebae. N -α- p -Tosyl- l -lysine chloromethyl ketone blocked microcyst formation and the vast majority of the cells existed as swarm cells. Chloroquine was an effective inhibitor in that the cells quickly became inactive; only about one-third of the cells converted to microcysts while the remaining cells were abnormally small. Both antipain and leupeptin inhibited normal microcyst formation and those microcysts produced were morphologically aberrant. Microcysts of normal appearance were produced in the presence of pepstatin and hemin but the process was significantly delayed.
Insulator—conductor transition in tetracyanoplatinate complexes

Abstract The changes in electronic structure of the tetracyanoplatinate complex accompanying the transition [Pt(CN) 2− 4 ] n (insulator) + oxidant → [Pt(CN) 2 − q+ 4 ] n (conductor) have been investigated with a cluster model approach. Calculations for trimer ( n = 3) cluster models of the insulator and conductor have been performed with the self-consistent-field Xα Dirac scattered-wave method. Based on the cluster electronic structure, we infer that the valence band edge in the insulator is not d z z like, but consists of metal (dδ + dπ) and ligand character. Partial oxidation of this band results in a shortening of the inter-stack distance, leading in turn to a partially occupied d z z-like valence band. Thus electron transport occurs along the Pt backbone.
Synopsis of taxonomic studies on Indian rotatoria

Taxonomic studies of Indian rotifers have revealed the presence of 241 species which are listed in an appendix. The nature of the Indian rotifer fauna is discussed.
A tensor product generalized ADI method for elliptic problems on cylindrical domains with holes

Abstract We consider solving second order linear elliptic partial differential equations together with Dirichlet boundary conditions in three dimensions on cylindrical domains (nonrectangular in x and y) with holes. We approximate the partial differential operators by standard partial difference operators. If the partial differential operator separates into two terms, one depending on x and y, and one depending on z, then the discrete elliptic problem may be written in tensor product form as (Tz⊗I + I⊗Axy) U=F. We consider a specific implementation which uses a Method of Planes approach with unequally spaced finite differences in the xy direction and symmetric finite difference in the z direction. We establish the convergence of the Tensor Product Generalized Alternating Direction Implicit iterative method applied to such discrete problems. We show that this method gives a fast and memory efficient scheme for solving a large class of elliptic problems.
JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 is an interleukin-2-induced inhibitor of IL-2 signaling.

JAB/suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) STAT-induced STAT inhibitor–1 (SSI-1) (JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1) is an SH2-domain–containing protein that is induced by and negatively regulates signaling by a number of cytokines including interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-6, interferon (IFN)-γ, prolactin, growth hormone, and erythropoietin. The role of JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 in IL-2 signaling has been analyzed. JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 is strongly induced by IL-2 in peripheral blood T cells, and JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 overexpression strongly inhibits IL-2–induced signal transducer and activator of transcription–5 (Stat5) phosphorylation and transcriptional activity. In cotransfection experiments, JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 associates with both Jak1 and Jak3; however, JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 had a greater effect on Jak1 tyrosine phosphorylation and kinase activity. JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 also interacts with IL-2Rβ, and this interaction requires the A region (residues 313-382) of IL-2Rβ. However, this interaction was not essential for the inhibitory action of JAB. Thus, JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 is an IL-2–induced inhibitor of IL-2 signaling that functions by inhibiting Jak kinase activity. This suggests an important role for JAB/SOCS1/SSI-1 in regulating T-cell responses.
Chemotaxis and random motility in unsteady chemoattractant fields: a computational study

Abstract We discuss a generic computational model which captures the effects of transient chemoattractant concentration on the chemotactic motility of individual cells. The model solves the appropriate unsteady chemoattractant transport equation using finite differences, while simultaneously executing biased random walks representing individual cells. The simulations were implemented for a 2D homogeneous domain, and two case studies were considered. In the first case study, we consider a single-point source at the origin of the domain which produces chemoattractant, while other cells execute biased random walks toward this point source. We observe that for continuous chemoattractant production, chemoattractant diffusivity has no effect on cell motility, as measured by the mean of time to reach the source. However, in the case of pulsed random production with a specific average duty cycle, the mean time-to-contact is generally minimal with respect to chemoattractant diffusivity over a moderate range of diffusivities. In the second case study, two mobile cells which simultaneously secrete chemoattractant are initially placed a certain distance apart and are then allowed to execute biased random walks. Our model shows that a pulsed random protocol for chemoattractant production facilitates the two cells “finding” one another compared to continuous production. From this case study we also learn that there exists a range of moderate chemoattractant diffusivities for which the mean time-to-contact is minimal when cells both produce/detect chemoattractant and chemotactically migrate. Using these case studies, we discuss how transience in chemoattractant concentration becomes important in characterizing the effectiveness of chemotaxis.
Comparison of Convective Boundary Layer Velocity Spectra Retrieved from Large- Eddy-Simulation and Weather Research and Forecasting Model Data

As computing capabilities expand, operational and research environments are moving toward the use of finescale atmospheric numerical models. These models are attractive for users who seek an accurate description of small-scale turbulent motions. One such numerical tool is the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, which has been extensively used in synoptic-scale and mesoscale studies. As finer-resolution simulations become more desirable, it remains a question whether the model features originally designed for the simulation of larger-scale atmospheric flows will translate to adequate reproductions of small-scale motions. In this study, turbulent flow in the dry atmospheric convective boundary layer (CBL) is simulated using a conventional large-eddy-simulation (LES) code and the WRF model applied in an LES mode. The two simulation conf igurations use almost identical numerical grids and are initialized with the same idealized vertical profiles of wind velocity, temperature, and moisture. TherespectiveCBL forcingsareseteq ualandheldco nstant. The effects of the CBL wind shear and of the varying grid spacings are investigated. Horizontal slices of velocity fields are analyzed to enable a comparison of CBL flow patterns obtained with each simulation method. Two-dimensional velocity spectra are used to characterize the planar turbulence structure. One-dimensional velocity spectra are also calculated. Results show that the WRF model tends to attribute slightly more energy to larger-scale flow structures as compared with the CBL structures reproduced by the conventional LES. Consequently, the WRF model reproduces relatively less spatial variability of the velocity fields. Spectra from the WRF model also feature narrower inertial spectral subranges and indicate enhanced damping of turbulence on small scales.
Significance of Slow Upsloping ST-Segment Depression on Exercise Stress Testing

The supplementary value of varying degrees of upsloping ST-segment depression observed during treadmill exercise testing to the accuracy of the exercise ST-segment response for detection of ischemia was determined by employing a reversible thallium-201 (201Tl) defect as the criteria for ischemia. A group of 199 consecutive patients (168 men) with > or = 1 reversible 201Tl defects on quantitative planar perfusion imaging, and a normal group of 366 patients with normal 201Tl scans who achieved > or = 85% of age-predicted maximum heart rate were studied. Upsloping ST-segment depression was subcategorized for > or = 1.0, > or = 1.5, and > or = 2.0 mm of sustained ST-segment depression below baseline at 0.08 seconds after the J-point. If only > or = 1.0 mm of horizontal or downsloping ST-segment depression was designated as abnormal and all upsloping responses as normal, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of the exercise electrocardiogram were 49% (98 of 199), 84% (281 of 336), 64% (98 of 153), 74% (281 of 382), and 71% (379 of 535), respectively. If in addition to > 1.0 mm of horizontal or downsloping ST-segment depression, > or = 2.0 mm of upsloping ST-segment depression is considered abnormal, these values were 52% (104 of 199), 81% (272 of 336), 62% (104 of 168), 74% (272 of 367), and 70% (376 of 535), respectively. If > or = 1.5 mm of upsloping ST-segment depression is considered an abnormal response, these values were 59% (117 of 199), 74% (248 of 336), 57% (117 of 205), 75% (248 of 330), and 68% (365 of 535), respectively. Finally, if > or = 1.0 mm of upsloping ST-segment depression is considered abnormal, these values were 71% (142 of 199), 56% (187 of 336), 49% (142 of 291), 77% (187 of 244), and 61% (329 of 535), respectively. Thus, if upsloping ST-segment depression is added to the criteria for a positive exercise test result, sensitivity for detection of ischemia is increased but at the expense of a fall in specificity and a significant decrease in the positive predictive value of the test.
Lead isotopes as a provenance tool for quartz: Examples from plutons and quartzite, northeastern Minnesota, USA

Abstract The U-Pb isotope system in plutonic quartz samples approximates the crystallization age of the host granitoid and thus provides a useful provenance tool for detrital quartz grains. We present lead isotopic data and U and Pb concentrations of quartz from three Late Archean granitoids and from the Early Proterozoic Pokegama Quartzite, all in northeastern Minnesota. Lead in granitic quartz is considerably more radiogenic than in its associated whole rock host, but it is similar or only slightly more thorogenic than its host. Pb-Pb ages obtained from quartz whole-rock-leached feldspar from the Late Archean granitic plutons are consistent with existing geochronology, suggesting that the U-Pb system in quartz remained closed since crystallization. U-Pb isotopic data for detrital clear quartz populations in the Pokegama Quartzite record Late Archean ages (2550–2650), consistent with a source from the Superior Province. Lead isotopic compositions of detrital K-feldspar populations and lead and neodymium isotopic compositions of whole rocks samples from the Pokegama Quartzite also support a Superior Province source. This study highlights the potential of the lead isotope system in detrital quartz, K-feldspar and whole rocks in provenance studies of sandstones.
Magnetoresistance in π-conjugated organic sandwich devices with varying hyperfine and spin–orbit coupling strengths, and varying dopant concentrations

We study a recently discovered organic magnetoresistive (OMAR) effect whose underlying mechanism is currently not known with certainty. We examine the hypothesis that OMAR is caused by spin-dynamics by varying the strength of the hyperfine and spin–orbit coupling in the organic semiconductor material. We show that unlike most other materials, C60 devices do not exhibit the OMAR effect. Therefore hydrogen atoms and the resulting strong nuclear hyperfine coupling is a necessary prerequisite for the observation of OMAR. We investigate the dependence of OMAR on the strength of the spin-coupling introduced by heavy atoms in two widely used organic semiconductors, and find the characteristic magnetic field scale shifts to much larger fields. We also study OMAR sandwich devices made from the conducting polymer PEDOT. We show that in PEDOT the observed effect is caused by interface resistance, distinct from the case of intrinsic devices where OMAR is related to the bulk resistance of the (undoped) organic semiconductor.
Spinal cord stimulation for chronic, intractable pain: Superiority of “multi-channel” devices

Spinal cord stimulation has evolved over the past 20 years into an easily implemented technique, with low morbidity, for the treatment of intractable, chronic pain in properly selected patients. We report our experience with a series of 62 patients implanted between 1983 and 1987, with percutaneous and laminectomy electrodes, and with single- and "multi-channel" (programmable, multi-contact) devices. Fifty had chronic, intractable low back and leg pain ("failed back surgery syndrome," lumbar arachnoid fibrosis), five had spinal cord injuries, and seven "peripheral" pathology or stump pain. Statistical analysis of these and other patient characteristics and technical factors was undertaken to identify predictors of outcome. All patients were interviewed by a disinterested third party at a mean of 2.14 years following implantation. A majority of patients reported at least 50% sustained relief of pain and indicated that they would go through the procedure again for the same result. There was corresponding improvement in ability to perform various everyday activities, and decrease in use of analgesics. Ten of 40 failed back patients who were disabled before the procedure returned to work postoperatively. Superposition of stimulation paresthesias upon a patient's topography of pain was found to be a statistically significant predictor of successful relief of pain, by linear regression methods. Univariate and multivariate analysis of patient characteristics and technical factors as predictors of outcome demonstrated significant advantages for female patients, and for patients implanted with "multi-channel" devices. With these devices, electrode geometries with central cathode(s) flanked by rostral and caudal anode(s) were favored disproportionately. Technical improvements in implanted spinal cord stimulation devices, in particular the development of multi-contact percutaneous electrode arrays and supporting programmable electronics, have significantly improved clinical results.
Modeling and optimization of circularly-polarized patch antennas using the lumped element equivalent circuit approach

The paper describes the application of the lumped element equivalent circuit approach to the modeling of a capacitively loaded circularly-polarized microstrip patch antenna. This is achieved by using vector fitting to fit frequency domain scattering parameter data properly to a rational function approximation. Then, the parameter coefficients from the approximate function are used to calculate the passive elements of the lumped equivalent circuit. The circular polarization is achieved by a combination of lumped capacitor loading at the ends of the antenna and feeding along either diagonal of the patch to produce left-hand or right-hand circular polarization. This technique is intended to give a designer an idea of the value of capacitance needed to achieve circular polarization and to facilitate the optimization process. The method is benchmarked for antennas for Bluetooth applications.
Complement and Mechanisms of Restenosis

Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) is a highly successful procedure for increasing the luminal diameter of atherosclerotic coronary arteries in order to improve distal perfusion of the myocardium. However, PTCA induces a series of events that involves activation of the coagulation and complement cascades, platelet activation and aggregation, thrombus formation, leukocyte adherence, activation of the inflammatory response, vascular smooth muscle (VSM) migration and proliferation, and deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) (Popma et al, 1991; Ferns et al, 1992; Wilcox 1993; Herrman et al, 1993a; Schwartz et al, 1993; O’Brien & Schwartz 1994; Casscells et al., 1994). In up to 50% of patients these events lead to restenosis, the narrowing or blockage of the lumen of the coronary artery, and the necessity for a repeat PTCA or a coronary artery bypass graft.
Impact of shoulder position and fatigue on the flexion-relaxation response in cervical spine.

Abstract Background Neck pain is common among general population with a high prevalence among the people who are routinely exposed to prolonged use of static head–neck postures. Prolonged static loading can cause localized muscle fatigue which may impact the stability of the cervical spine. In this study, flexion–relaxation phenomenon was used to study the post fatigue changes in the stability of cervical spine by evaluating the synergistic load sharing between muscles and viscoelastic elements. Methods Thirteen male participants were recruited for data collection. The variables that influence cervical flexion–relaxation were studied pre- and post-fatigue using neutral and shrugged shoulder postures. The Sorensen protocol was used to induce neck extensor fatigue. Surface electromyography and optical motion capture systems were used to record neck muscle activation and head posture, respectively. Findings The flexion–relaxation phenomenon was observed only in the neutral shoulder position pre- and post-fatigue. The flexion relaxation ratio decreased significantly post-fatigue in neutral shoulder position but remained unchanged in shrugged shoulder position. The onset and offset angles and the corresponding durations of the silence period were significantly affected by the fatigue causing a post-fatigue expansion of silence period. Interpretation The muscular fatigue of neck extensors and shoulder position was found to modulate the cervical flexion–relaxation phenomenon. Early shifting of load sharing under fatigued condition indicates increased demands on the passive tissues to stabilize the cervical spine. Shrugging of shoulder seems to alter muscular demands of neck extensors and make cervical flexion–relaxation phenomenon disappear due to continuous activation of the neck extensors.
On the performance of bias-reduction techniques for variance estimation in approximate Bayesian bootstrap imputation

Multiply imputed data sets can be created with the approximate Bayesian bootstrap (ABB) approach under the assumption of ignorable nonresponse. The theoretical development and inferential validity are predicated upon asymptotic properties; and biases are known to occur in small-to-moderate samples. There have been attempts to reduce the finite-sample bias for the multiple imputation variance estimator. In this note, we present an empirical study for evaluating the comparative performance of the two proposed bias-correction techniques and their impact on precision. The results suggest that to varying degrees, bias improvements are outweighed by efficiency losses for the variance estimator. We argue that the original ABB has better small-sample properties than the modified versions in terms of the integrated behavior of accuracy and precision, as measured by the root mean-square error.
PKCepsilon and an increase in intracellular calcium concentration are necessary for PGF2alpha to inhibit LH-stimulated progesterone secretion in cultured bovine steroidogenic luteal cells

The hypotheses that PKCepsilon is necessary for: 1) PGF2alpha to inhibit LH-stimulated progesterone (P4) secretion, and 2) for the expression of key prostaglandin synthesizing/metabolizing enzymes were tested in bovine luteal cells in which PKCepsilon expression had been ablated using a validated siRNA protocol. Steroidogenic cells from Day -6 bovine corpus luteum (CL) were isolated and transfected to reduce PKCepsilon expression after 48, 72 and 96 h. A third tested hypothesis was that an increase in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) is the cellular mechanism through which PGF2alpha inhibits luteal progesterone. The hypothesis was tested with two pharmacological agents. In the first test, the dose-dependent effects on raising the [Ca(2+)]i with the ionophore, A23187, on basal and LH-stimulated P4 secretion in cells collected from early (Day -4) and mid-cycle (Day -10) bovine CL was examined. In the second test, the ability of PGF2alpha to inhibit LH-stimulated P4 secretion in Day-10 luteal cells was examined under conditions in which an elevation in [Ca(2+)]i had been buffered by means of the intracellular calcium chelator, Bapta-AM. PKCepsilon expression was reduced 65 and 75% by 72 and 96 h after transfection, respectively. In cells in which PKCepsilon expression was ablated by 75%, the inhibitory effect of PGF2alpha on LH-stimulated P4 secretion was only 29% lower than in the LH-stimulated group. In contrast, it was reduced by 75% in the group where PKCepsilon expression had not been reduced (P < 0.05). Real time PCR analysis indicated that there were no differences in the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), aldoketoreductase 1B5 (AKR1B5), prostaglandin E synthase (PGES), hydroxyprostaglandin-15 dehydrogenase (PGDH) and PGE2 -9-reductase as a function of PKCepsilon down-regulation. Finally, LH stimulated secretion of P4 at each luteal stage (Day -4 and -10), and PGF2alpha inhibited this only in Day -10 cells (P < 0.05). When A23187 was used at concentrations greater than 0.1 μmol, the induced elevation in [Ca(2+)]i inhibited the effect of LH on secretion of P4 in Day -4 and -10 cells (P < 0.05, Fig. 5). The inhibitory effect of PGF2alpha on LH-stimulated P4 in Day -10 cells was reduced if an increase in [Ca(2+)]i was prevented with Bapta-AM. These results support the hypothesis that differential expression of PKCepsilon and an elevation of [Ca(2+)]i are important for acquisition of luteolytic response to PGF2alpha.
Comparisons of Multi‐Year Statistics of Selected Variables From the Coads and the Nimbus‐7 and Ecmwf Data Sets

Coarse spatial resolution monthly statistics of selected variables of the Consolidated Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set (COADS) have been compared with Nimbus-7 satellite analyses and the European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) operational analyses. Comparisons are made for the important cloud/climate variables of total cloudiness, surface air temperature and surface relative humidity. to ease these comparisons the COADS variances have been adjusted to account for small numbers of observations, and the COADS temperature and humidity data have been transformed to the 1000 mb level of the ECMWF analyses. The results show that the Nimbus-7 cloud fractions tend to underestimate total cloudiness for much of the earth, especially in regions of substantial low cloud cover. After account has been made for the different observation heights, the COADS and the ECMWF annual mean temperature statistics are found to be in generally good agreement. However, the annual mean ECMWF relative humidities are significantly lower over large portions of the oceans. The interrelations between the Nimbus-7 and the COADS total cloudiness and the ECMWF and the COADS lower-level temperature and relative humidity are compared. Significant regional correlation patterns are evident in all cloud-surface data pairs. On the other hand, some patterns of correlation using the Nimbus-7 and the COADS cloud data are quite different, with those of the COADS generally appearing to be the more realistic.
Atmospheric nitrogen fixation by hydrocarbon‐oxidizing bacteria

Microorganisms have been found which concomitantly convert hydrocarbons, selected naphthenic acids, and atmospheric nitrogen into cellular substance. Bacteria are included in the genera Pseudomonas, Mycobacterium, and Azotobacter. Carbon sources utilized include the hydrocarbons methane, n-butane, n-tetradecane, toluene, and a naphthenic acid, cyclohexane-carboxylate. Uptake of isotopic nitrogen was employed as a criterion of nitrogen fixation. The results indicate a rather wide prevalence in nature of hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen. Their occurrence helps explain the high concentration of organic nitrogen commonly found in soils exposed to gas leakage from pipelines or natural-gas seeps, and suggests further consideration of the possibility of applying selected petroleum residua to soils in order to increase the agricultural potential by nitrogen-fixing processes.
Efficient recovery and regeneration of integrated retroviruses

We report a rapid and efficient PCR-based rescue procedure for integrated recombinant retroviruses. Full-length proviral DNA is amplified by long-range PCR using a pair of primers derived from the long terminal repeats (LTR), and virus is regenerated by transfecting retrovirus-packaging cells with the PCR-derived provirus. The viral yield from the PCR product is similar to that from the retroviral plasmid vector, and the representation of different inserts is accurately maintained in the recovered retroviral population. This procedure is suitable for expression cloning from retroviral libraries and should be applicable to the analysis of natural retrovirus populations.
NMR Solution Structure and Topological Orientation of Monomeric Phospholamban in Dodecylphosphocholine Micelles

Phospholamban is an integral membrane protein that regulates the contractility of cardiac muscle by maintaining cardiomyocyte calcium homeostasis. Abnormalities in association of protein kinase A with PLB have recently been linked to human heart failure, where a single mutation is responsible for dilated cardiomyopathy. To date, a high-resolution structure of phospholamban in a lipid environment has been elusive. Here, we describe the first structure of recombinant, monomeric, biologically active phospholamban in lipid-mimicking dodecylphosphocholine micelles as determined by multidimensional NMR experiments. The overall structure of phospholamban is “L-shaped” with the hydrophobic domain approximately perpendicular to the cytoplasmic portion. This is in agreement with our previously published solid-state NMR data. In addition, there are two striking discrepancies between our structure and those reported previously for synthetic phospholamban in organic solvents: a), in our structure, the orientation of the cytoplasmic helix is consistent with the amphipathic nature of these residues; and b), within the hydrophobic helix, residues are positioned on two discrete faces of the helix as consistent with their functional roles ascribed by mutagenesis. This topology renders the two phosphorylation sites, Ser-16 and Thr-17, more accessible to kinases.
Shapes and Widths of Stark Resonances in Sodium

We have studied the energies and shapes of resonances that appear in the laser induced Stark photoionization (PI) spectrum of sodium in a field-energy domain (FED) above the saddle point in the potential at F = l/16n4 Our experimental study began as an exploration of these structures in the continuum [1,2], evolved into a systematic comparison of measurements with theory [3], and is currently directed at a study of recently discovered interference effects that result in extraordinary sharpening of some of these resonances [4]. Our theoretical study began with numerical calculations of the hydrogen Stark spectra [5], moved to the formalism developed by Harmin [6] including direct numerical calculation of the widths of Stark resonances, and now employs a matrix version of Fano’s theory of discrete-continuum couplings (matrices for multiple continua) [7]. We choose to study Na for reasons of experimental convenience only.
Recombination and DNA Replication in the DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER Oocyte

ABSTRACT A method is described that permits the recovery of a well-synchronized population of oocytes. Utilizing this pupal system , the heat-responsive period for increasing crossing-over in the Drosophila genome has been defined for the Χ chromosome and a portion of chromosome 2 . The response is initiated close to the time of oocyte formation (premeiotic interphase) and is terminated after ~36 hr. During the 36-hr period different regions show characteristic responses, which vary in degree, in duration, and in initiation and termination points, so as to generate the beginning of a thermal recombination map for the Drosophila genome. Centromere regions exhibit the greatest increases in crossing-over for their respective chromosomes but are distinctly asynchronous in time; interstitial regions respond the least. Correlated autoradiographic studies have localized DNA replication in the oocyte to a ~24-hr period, which also begins close to oocyte formation (premeiotic interphase); late labeling in restricted regions, undetectable with the present method, could extend the period, as could prolonged synthesis in the oocyte. The results demonstrate that DNA replication and the heat-sensitive period for enhancement of crossing-over are coincident processes over most and possibly all of their length.
METABOLIC RISK FACTORS AND THE IMPACT OF MEDICAL THERAPY ON THE MANAGEMENT OF NEPHROLITHIASIS IN OBESE PATIENTS

ABSTRACTPurpose:: Previous studies have demonstrated that obesity can increase the risk of stone formation as well as recurrence rates of stone disease. Yet appropriate medical management can significantly decrease the risk of recurrent stone disease. Therefore, we analyzed our obese patient population, assessing the risk factors for stone formation and the impact of selective medical therapy on recurrent stone formation.Materials and Methods:: A retrospective chart review was performed to identify obese patients with stone disease from our Stone Center. Metabolic risk factors for stones were identified as well as patient response to medical therapy. A similar analysis was performed on a group of age and sex matched nonobese stone formers.Results:: Of 1,021 patients 140 (14%) were identified as obese (body mass index greater than 30). Of these patients complete metabolic evaluations were available in 83 with an average followup of 2.3 years. The most common presenting metabolic abnormalities among these o...
Cost-effectiveness of fulvestrant 250 mg versus 500 mg in postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer and disease progression after antiestrogen therapy

Purpose:To determine the cost-effectiveness of fulvestrant 250 mg compared to 500 mg in postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer and disease progression after a...
A new species of Stenodiplosis (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) on Spartina grasses (Poaceae) with notes on its biology and its parasitoid Tetrastichus bromi (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)

Stenodiplosis spartinae Gagne new species (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) is described from eastern South Dakota and coastal North Carolina, and compared with other American congeners. The known host plants are Spartina alterniflora and S. pectinata . The larva is a seed predator of the ovule and immature caryopsis of the host plant. Adult activity is from the early emergence of the host inflorescence through anthesis. Oviposition occurs in the floret with eggs laid under the edges of the palea and lemma. The larva apparently overwinters in dehisced spikelets in the soil among rhizomes of S. pectinata , with pupation in late spring. Laboratory emergence and field activity of the adults suggest a potentialsecond or third generation developing on late emerging inflorescences. Larval feeding does not induce external color or shape changes in the spikelet. Apparently all three instars are ectoparasitized by Tetrastichus bromi Kostyukov (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) that was probably introduced to North America in the late 1800’s and is inculcated into parasitoid guilds of several Stenodiplosis species. Resource partitioning appears to occur between the gall midge and early instars of Aethes spartinana Barnes and McDunnough (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) that feed on maturing caryopses. The feeding of this gall midge and the moth probably account for most of the reduced seed production in both natural and agronomic populations of S. pectinata .
Abstract 327: Six months follow-up of “My Unlimited Potential”, A 12-week Worksite, Multi-Component, Lifestyle Intervention for Improving Cardiometabolic Health in High Risk Persons

Background: With about 59% of the entire US population currently in the work force, the American Heart Association has emphasized worksite-based interventions to improve cardiovascular health among the working population. The primary aim of this study was to assess effectiveness of an ongoing multi-component, lifestyle improvement program (My Unlimited Potential [MyUP]) extending into 6 months, among employees of Baptist Health South Florida (BHSF), a large not-for-profit health care system. Methods: BHSF employees with 2 or more Cardiometabolic risk factors, such as total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dl, systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg, hemoglobin A1C ≥ 6.5%, and body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 were considered for the study. Behavioral interventions were focused on dietary and physical activity modifications. Results: Overall 202 (48±10 years, 78% females) employees who enrolled in the MyUP wellness program. The retention of subjects was high with 89% (n=181) at 12 weeks and 80% (n=162) at 6 months. The table and figure below demonstrate the baseline, 12 week and 6 months averages in anthropometric and laboratory profile in participants. Comparing follow-up from 3 months to that at 6 months, clinically meaningful improvement in endpoints were especially noted for BMI, BP, HDL targets, and reducing burden of systemic inflammation (figure). Conclusion: These findings suggest that an intensive behavioral modification intervention program, delivered to employees in a health care setting, results in both significant short and intermediate term benefit in weight reduction, improved blood pressure control and hbA1c, and concomitantly improves cardio-metabolic risk profile. Further follow-up is in progress to ascertain whether these benefits are sustainable over longer periods. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
The role of lasers and intense pulsed light technology in dermatology

The role of light-based technologies in dermatology has expanded dramatically in recent years. Lasers and intense pulsed light have been used to safely and effectively treat a diverse array of cutaneous conditions, including vascular and pigmented lesions, tattoos, scars, and undesired hair, while also providing extensive therapeutic options for cosmetic rejuvenation and other dermatologic conditions. Dermatologic laser procedures are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, and demand for them has fueled new innovations and clinical applications. These systems continue to evolve and provide enhanced therapeutic outcomes with improved safety profiles. This review highlights the important roles and varied clinical applications that lasers and intense pulsed light play in the dermatologic practice.
Metamaterial Nanophotonics

Fundamental properties of the concept of optical "lumped" nanocircuit elements using optical metamaterial/plasmonic structures are discussed, and several cases of more complex nanophotonic circuits and systems using these lumped elements are studied using full-wave simulations.
Strong Field Adiabatic Ionization Prepares a Launch State for Coherent Control.

We demonstrate that excitation of acetophenone with a strong field, near-infrared femtosecond pulse (1150–1500 nm) results in adiabatic ionization, producing acetophenone radical cation in the ground electronic state. The time-resolved transients of the parent and fragment ions probed with a weak 790 nm pulse reveal an order of magnitude enhancement of the peak-to-peak amplitude oscillations, ∼ 100 fs longer coherence time, and an order of magnitude increase in the ratio of parent to fragment ions in comparison with nonadiabatic ionization with a strong field 790 nm pulse. Equation of motion coupled cluster and classical wavepacket trajectory calculations support the mechanism wherein the probe pulse excites a wavepacket on the ground surface D0 to the excited D2 surface at a delay of 325 fs, resulting in dissociation to the benzoyl ion. Direct population transfer to the D2 state within the duration of a 1370 nm pump pulse eliminates wavepacket oscillation on the D0 state.
Neuromodulation and Neuronal Plasticity

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the neuronal plasticity, discusses the evidence of plasticity in a number of disease states in which neuromodulation is a potential therapy, and reviews the evidence of the connection between neuromodulation therapy and neuronal plasticity. Advances in basic and clinical neurosciences over the past 20 years have brought with them a completely new understanding of the dynamic and evolving nature of both cortical and subcortical representational topography. Neuronal representational plasticity can occur rapidly, over large distances in the nervous system, and across multiple sensory and motor modalities. This plasticity appears in some cases to correlate with improvement in function, but in other cases may in fact result in untoward consequences such as chronic pain. In parallel, over the same time period, dramatic growth and evolution in the field of neuromodulation has taken place. Similar to neuronal plasticity, the beneficial effects of neuromodulation on disease states can occur rapidly and across multiple modalities. The intriguing evidence from a small but ever-increasing clinical and basic science research suggests that neuromodulation may exert its effects via, at least in part, facilitation of beneficial plastic changes in the nervous system, as well as modification of abnormal reorganization occurring as a result of various disease states. A functional MRI (fMRI) study in patients with focal right hand dystonia has also demonstrated an altered somatotopic organization in the left putamen. Furthermore, there was decreased distance in three-dimensional space between the representations of the hand and lip in the dystonic patients, which correlated with duration of illness.
Four Simultaneously Dynamic Covalent Reactions. Experimental Proof of Orthogonality.

Dynamic covalent reactions are widely used in dynamic combinatorial chemistry. Most of these reactions are run under differing reaction conditions and exhibit cross-reactivity when components of multiple reactions are present in one reaction vessel. Herein, we report the study of four dynamic covalent reactions that react reversibly under identical reaction conditions and do not exhibit any cross-reactivity. Dynamic behavior was shown via 1H NMR based exchange experiments. Computational deconvolution of 1H NMR spectra containing the components for more than one of the orthogonal reactions allowed for a semiquantitative analysis of the complex mixtures formed, showing that the reactions proceed independently of each other. Therefore, it is possible to use all four reactions in one pot in a simultaneous, yet orthogonal fashion. This opens up possibilities for the preprogrammed formation of complex thermodynamic assemblies.
Nonmyeloablative Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation with/ or without 90yttrium Ibritumomab Tiuxetan (90YIT) Is Curative for Relapsed Follicular Lymphoma: Median 9 Year Follow-up Results

Abstract Abstract 662 Purpose: Fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab (FCR) has been found to be an effective nonmyeloablative allogeneic conditioning for relapsed/chemosensitive follicular lymphoma (Khouri et al, Blood 2008;111:5530). Innovative strategies were needed to treat patients with refractory disease. To achieve this goal, we added in a subsequent trial 90YIT to the conditioning (90YIT-FC). We now report updated results of the FCR trial (n=47 pts), and outcomes after 90YIT-FC (n=26 pts). Methods: FCR regimen: Fludarabine (30mg/m2) and cyclophosphamide(750mg/m2) were each given daily for 3 days (-5 to −3) before transplantation. Rituximab was given at a dose of 375 mg/m2 on day –13 and 1000 mg/m2 on days −6, +1, and +8, as previously described. 90YIT-FC: A diagnostic dose of 111In-ibritumomab was administered on day-14, followed by a fixed dose of 0.4 mCi/kg 90YIT on day −7. FC chemo was then administered at the same dose and schedule (days −5 to −3) as described above. Tacrolimus and methotrexate was used for GVHD prophylaxis. In addition, thymoglobulin of 1 mg/kg was given on days −2, −1 in pts receiving an unrelated or HLA-mismatched donor. Results: A. Transplant with FCR. Median age was 53 years (range, 33–68) years. Median prior treatments was 3 (range, 2–7). At transplant, 96% had chemosensitive disease (38% CR, 62% PR); 15% were PET+; and 53% had IPI = 0. Forty five pts (96%) had a transplant from a matched sibling donor, and 2 from unrelated ones. Since the last update (Blood 2008), one pt had recurrent disease (responded to donor lymphocytes + rituximab); three deaths occurred while pts were in CR: one because of pancreatic cancer (with strong family history), one of infection, and one of unknown causes. With a median follow-up time of 107 months (range, 72–142), the OS and PFS rates at 10-year were 78% (95%CI, 62–87) and 72% (95% CI, 56–83), respectively. Lymphoma-free OS and PFS rates were 82% and 76%, respectively. B. Transplant with 90YIT-FC. Compared to the FCR group, more pts within this group had refractory disease (non-responding or progressing with chemo-immunotherapy) at transplant (38% vs 4%, respectively, p Download : Download high-res image (22KB) Download : Download full-size image Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Effect of Calcium Chloride Treatments on Quality Characteristics of Blackberry Fruit During Storage

Post-harvested blackberry fruits were immediately treated with 1% and 2% calcium chloride by immersion at 20 ± 1 o C for 2.5 min and kept for 8 days at 0 ± 0,5 o C and Relative Humidity (RH) 90 ± 5%. The application of calcium did not significantly effect on total titratable acidity, pH and total soluble solids. The blackberry fruits treated with 1% and 2% Calcium chloride increased their ascorbic acid content by 15.7 and 37.5% respectively. Content of cyanidin-3-O-monoglucoside decreased by 6.33, 32.06 and 11.35 mg per 100 g of fruit in case of storage of untreated, treated with 1 and 2% calcium chloride respectively. Content of pelargonidin 3 – O - monoglucoside increased respectively by 2.29, 26.87 and 8.45 mg per 100 g fruits. Change of content of cyanidin 3 – O - (6 - p – coumaroyl - glucoside) was not statistically significant. Reduction in polyphenols content of control sample by 13.6% reflected in reduction of antioxidant potential by 25%. In the samples treated with 1 and 2% calcium chloride reduction of polyphenols content by 12.4 and 7.5 % caused reduction of antioxidant potential by 15.6 and 8.7% respectively.
Editorial: An international meeting exploring biophotonics☆

Abstract The use of light and colors in nature has been fascinating many people from all ages, all classes and from all over the world. Not surprisingly, a considerable community of researchers, scientists and engineers exists, trying to reveal these secrets and even trying to mimick those natural methods to produce light and color in modern technologies. The Living Light conference series is a biannual forum to bring specialists and students together to share and discuss their research and questions.
The Enigmatic Cytoarchitecture of Epulopiscium spp.

Epulopiscium spp. and related bacteria are large, intestinalsymbionts of surgeonfish. The biggest of these bacteria are cigar-shaped, reaching lengths of 600 μmor more. The architecture of these enormous cells is unusual and it appears that basic bacterial cell components,such as the flagella, cytoplasmic membrane and nucleoids, are present in excess and may serve novel functions.Comparative studies of members of this morphologically diverse group of intestinal symbionts are providinginsight into the role of cytoarchitecture in supporting large cytoplasmic volumes as well as the developmentof unusual reproductive strategies.
An approximation of the CP-rank of a partially sampled tensor

We exploit the recent algebraic geometry analyses that study the fundamental conditions on the locations of the sampled entries for finite completability of low-rank sampled tensor to treat the problem of CP-rank approximation for a partially sampled tensor. Particularly, the goal is to approximate the unknown rank based on the locations of the sampled entries, i.e., the sampling pattern, and the rank of an arbitrary given completion. First we provide an upper bound on the unknown CP-rank with probability one assuming that the sampling pattern satisfies the proposed combinatorial properties. However, the proposed combinatorial properties may be hard to verify. Hence, we also provide probabilistic versions of such bounds that hold with high probability assuming that the sampling probability is above a threshold, i.e., we provide the sampling probability that results the sampling pattern satisfies the proposed combinatorial properties with high probability. In addition, these upper bounds can be exactly equal to the unknown CP-rank given the lowest-rank completion. To illustrate how tight our proposed upper bounds are, we have provided some numerical results for the case of two-way tensor, i.e., matrix, in which we applied the nuclear norm minimization to find a low-rank completion of the sampled data and observe that the proposed upper bound is almost equal to the true unknown rank.