cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Processes Affecting Upper Ocean Chemical Structure in an Eastern Boundary Current

The primary transport and transformation processes which alter the chemical speciation and structure of the upper (100–200 m) ocean within 1000 km of the Californian coast have been examined from the process-oriented perspective of space and time scale analysis. In this region of the ocean, upwelling, offshore mesoscale eddies and large-scale “El Nino”-type processes dominate. Each of these physical processes has a velocity field which transports chemical species into and out of the euphotic zone in a unique way. Likewise, each of the resulting mass transports produces a chemical signature which unambiguously characterizes that physical process. Major alteration of chemical species which occurs within the euphotic zone is associated with primary biological productivity. The results presented here for the California Current may have general application for the interpretation of near-surface chemical variability observed in large areas of the world’s oceans.
Graph-Based Genetic Algorithm for De Novo Molecular Design

Abstract The field of computer-aided molecular design has benefited from the introduction of many new methodologies made possible through improvements in computing capabilities and techniques for handling large amounts of data. These advances in computational capabilities have ushered in an array of improved molecular simulation techniques as well as ways to characterize these phenomena. The increase in useful descriptors, capturing more detailed information than ever before, has allowed for more flexibility in developing structure-property and activity relationships. Coupled with powerful variable selection techniques, increasingly accurate and predictive models are being generated. This requires a paralleled increase in methodologies useful for utilization of these models, often containing descriptors of widely varying dimensionality, in a predictive, or inverse, manner. The application of genetic algorithms (GAs) is one such technique which has shown promise in the solution of large combinatorial, and highly non-linear molecular design problems. The approach presented here utilizes a fragment based descriptor known as the Signature descriptor, which is represented as a molecular graph, as building blocks to generate candidate solutions. The graph-based genetic operators necessary for such an approach will be outlined as well as exemplified through a case study which will highlight the advantages of the algorithm.
Obstructive sleep apnea in a laryngectomy patient: “External obstructive sleep apnea”

Obstructive sleep apnea was diagnosed in a man after a total laryngectomy. Excessive daytime sleepiness led to a diagnostic investigation. He had occlusion of the tracheal stoma while asleep by his chin and neck structures. This “external” obstructive sleep apnea caused repetitive desaturations and arousals typical of sleep apnea. Therapeutic measures to keep the chin off the stoma were successful in preventing the apneas with complete symptom relief. This is the first case of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome occurring from an obstruction external to the airway.
Analytical Asymptotic Structure in the Classically Forbidden Region of Atoms

In the application of a theory, it is always best to perform analytically as much of the calculation as possible. This is because (a) one obtains a result that is rigorous; (b) the derivation can lead to physical insights; (c) it obviates the need for numerical work in those regions of space where the analytical results are valid; (d) the analytical results help in confirming the correctness of the numerical component of the calculation by the requirement that it match smoothly with the analytical expressions, and that they in fact reproduce the results of these expressions; and (e) the analytical expressions help in determining the accuracy of the numerical work, which by its nature is always approximate. In this chapter, we apply Q-DFT to atoms to derive [1–3] the analytical structure of the local electron-interaction potential energy vee(r) of the model S system (see (3.3), (3.4), (3.67)), and of its Hartree, Pauli, Coulomb, and Correlation-Kinetic components, in the asymptotic classically forbidden region. To do so, we derive the asymptotic structure of the interacting system wave function to terms including the quadrupole moment contribution, and thereby that of the corresponding single particle density matrix, the density, and pair-correlation density to this order.
Soluble Sm-based ternary complexes for non-contact molecular thermometry

Abstract We develop two soluble Sm-doped ternary complexes for use as two-color thermometry (TCT) phosphors. These complexes are Sm(acac)3(TOPO)2 and Sm(hfa)3(TOPO)2, which are doped into HTPB polymer and optically characterized as a function of temperature. Both materials are found to have similar TCT calibration curves with an average energy spacing of Δ E = 99 ( ± 10 ) × 10 − 3 eV and an intensity ratio proportionality constant of A = 0.65 ± 0.16 . We estimate Sm(acac)3(TOPO)2's maximum functional temperature for continuous heating to be 497 K, while Sm(hfa)3(TOPO)2 is limited to 441 K due to irreversible thermal degradation of the complex. These complexes have promise as non-contact molecular temperature sensors in a wide variety of polymers and solvents.
Stackelberg Game Approach on Modeling of Supply Demand Behavior Considering BEV Uncertainty

Based on sophisticated metering infrastructure (AMI), one can use big data to provide demand-response (DR) solutions. There is a need to develop optimized cost structures for consumers. In this paper, Stackelberg game approaches are utilized, and residential loads are considered including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) equipped with BEV communication controllers and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies. Efficient and effective optimized algorithms are developed for users (followers) based on time dependent pricing schemes. In the “games,” besides the followers, other participant is an electricity retailer company (leader), with a two-way bilateral communication procedure accepted and established by all participants. The user side of the games is related to the demand side management (DSM). Real-time pricing (RTP) from time-of-use (TOU) companies is used to achieve better results. Monte Carlo simulations (MCS) represent uncertain behaviors of BEV drivers. Results indicate that customers' demands can be met while reaching the best efficiency.
Detection of lymph node metastases in penile cancer

Penile cancer (PC) is a relatively rare malignancy in the United States (US) but a greater concern in developing nations. Lymph node imaging remains critical to the staging and treatment of this disease as metastases develop in a predictable, anatomic fashion. Early surgical intervention remains a mainstay in treatment and imaging often aids in decision making. This review highlights the indications for imaging in both low-stage and advanced disease. Furthermore, we discuss the benefits and limitations of currently available imaging for staging of inguinal and pelvic lymph nodes in PC and novel modalities in development.
Disparities in Low-Vision Device Use Among Older US Medicare Recipients.

Importance Low-vision assistive devices are not covered by Medicare and many private insurers, although there is evidence that they can improve functioning and quality of life. Little is known about whether sociodemographic disparities exist in the use of low-vision services by Medicare beneficiaries. Objective To determine if sociodemographic disparities exist in the use of low-vision services by Medicare beneficiaries. Design, Setting, and Participants Cross-sectional population-based survey. The National Health Interview Survey is an annually administered nationally representative US survey. Data used in this study were from the 2002, 2008, and 2016 National Health Interview Survey vision supplement. Participants who were Medicare beneficiaries 65 years and older with self-reported vision impairment were included. Main Outcomes and Measures Multivariable logistic regression was performed to evaluate if sociodemographic or economic factors were associated with self-reported use of low-vision devices or low-vision rehabilitation among Medicare beneficiaries 65 years and older who self-reported vision impairment. Results There were 3058 participants included in the study. The survey weighted proportion of participants who were men was 37.9% (95% CI, 35.8%-40.0%), while 79.1% (95% CI, 77.2%-80.9%) were non-Hispanic white, 10.2% (95% CI, 9.0%-11.5%) were non-Hispanic black, 6.7% (95% CI, 5.6%-8.1%) were Hispanic, and 4.0% (95% CI, 3.2%-5.0%) identified with another race/ethnicity. The weighted proportion who reported using low-vison devices and low-vision rehabilitation were 26.1% (95% CI, 24.2%-28.1%) and 3.5% (95% CI, 2.8%-4.3%), respectively. In a model adjusted for ocular diagnoses, Hispanic individuals (odds ratio, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.39-0.97) and individuals from other races/ethnicities (odds ratio, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.19-0.80), but not black individuals, were significantly less likely to report using low-vision devices than white individuals. In the model that was not adjusted for ocular diagnoses, black individuals (odds ratio, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.54-0.99) were also significantly less likely to report using low-vision devices. There were no significant racial/ethnic disparities for reported use of low-vision rehabilitation. Conclusions and Relevance Additional research is needed to clarify the association between sociodemographics and use of low-vision services in the Medicare population. However, policy makers could consider expanding Medicare coverage to include low-vision devices in an effort to address significant disparities in the use of this evidence-based intervention.
A Framework for Implementing OER-Based Lesson Design Activities for Pre-Service Teachers

The demand for qualified teachers with sufficient pedagogical knowledge and skills is high. However, existing teacher education programs do not provide adequate experiences through which to develop pre-service teachers’ professional foundations. This study recognized Open Educational Resources (OER) as a means by which to address the issue of enhancing teacher education. The purpose of this study was to propose a framework to be used to integrate OER into lesson design activities for pre-service teachers. In this study, a focused literature review investigated the frameworks of distributed cognition and example-based learning. This review process resulted in a unified framework that provides a description of how pre-service teachers learn with OER at both the individual and cognitive system levels. Four principles and 10 guidelines are provided to guide the implementation of OER-based lesson design activities in real settings. The new framework has the potential to enhance pre-service teachers’ Web resource-based professional development.
Exploration of Content and Reach of Physical Therapy-Related Discussion on Twitter

Background Many individuals access and share health information on social networking sites. Previous studies have analyzed the social media site Twitter to discern public opinion related to health phenomena such as antibiotics, concussions, and flu. Physical therapy-related online discussions have not been studied. Objective The aim of this study was to explore content, participants, and structure of physical therapy-related discussions on Twitter. Design This study was observational. Methods Over 12 weeks, more than 30,000 physical therapy-related tweets were collected. A random sample of 100 tweets underwent preliminary analysis to determine broad categories including tweet author, tone, and theme. A second random sample of 100 tweets was analyzed to confirm categories. Once categories were established, a new sample of 1000 tweets was randomly selected for analysis and categorization. All study investigators categorized a shared collection of tweets to establish inter- and intrarater agreement. Twitter conversations were visualized using NodeXL. Results Intrarater and interrater agreement for tweet categorization was 95% and 89%, respectively. The distribution of the intended audience was 35.5% professional, 35.5% broad reach, and 29% public. The gross distribution of tweet tone was 63.1% neutral, 31.4% positive, and 5.6% negative. Twenty-eight percent of tweets were authored by physical therapists/physical therapist assistants and nearly one-half were categorized as "marketing." Tweets tended to be "isolated," not within a conversation, or consist of conversation within "tight crowds." Limitations This study was purely observational. Social media content can be highly influenced by temporal events, which limits the generalization of specific findings. Conclusions Study results indicate that the reach of physical therapy-related tweets may not be as broad as intended by the author. Physical therapy professionals and the hospitals/clinics that employ them may need to implement strategies to be more intentional in reaching a broader audience with online messages.
Synthetic biology for bio-derived structural materials

Biologically derived materials have numerous applications in biomedical fields and beyond. Yet, the properties of these materials are difficult to alter because the natural biosynthetic mechanisms are difficult to elucidate, imitate, or adjust. Thus, many bio-derived materials are isolated from natural tissues, or substitutes are recombinantly produced and then modified ex vivo. A major shift in this paradigm is being driven by the maturing field of synthetic biology, which is innovating a ‘tool box’ of methods to tune biomolecules and biosynthetic mechanisms in vivo. In the context of materials, this has led to higher production titers due to reprogrammed natural biosynthesis and has enabled design of novel materials by combining desired domains in vivo. Here, we highlight recent applications of synthetic biology to bio-derived ribosomal and nonribosomal polymer materials for biomedical applications. We then describe state-of-the-art techniques that will impact bio-derived material production and engineering in the near future. Continued innovation at the convergence of synthetic biology and materials science promises to begin a new era of biomaterial design and synthesis.
Cover Crop Residue Components and their Effect on Summer Annual Weed Suppression in Corn and Soybean

Cover crop residue can act as a mulch that will suppress weeds, but as the residue degrades, weed suppression diminishes. Biomass of cover crop residue is positively correlated to weed suppression, but little research is available regarding the composition of cover crop residue and its effect on weed suppression. Field experiments were conducted to determine the impact of cover crop residue properties (i.e., total carbon, total nitrogen, lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose) on summer annual weed suppression and cash crop yield. Cover crop monocultures and mixtures were planted in the fall and designed to provide a range of biomass and residue properties. Cover crops were followed by corn (Zea mays L.) or soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. At termination, cover crop biomass and residue components were determined. Biomass ranged from 3,640 to 8,750 kg ha–1, and the carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio ranged from 12:1 to 36:1. As both cover crop biomass and C:N ratio increased, weed suppression and duration of suppression increased. For example, a C:N ratio of 9:1 is needed to suppress redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus L.) 50% at 4 wk after termination (WAT), and that increases to 16:1 and 20:1 to have 50% suppression at 6 and 8 WAT, respectively. Similarly, with biomass, 2,800 kg ha–1 is needed for 50% A. retroflexus suppression at 4 WAT, which increases to 5,280 kg ha–1 and 6,610 kg ha–1 needed for 50% suppression at 6 and 8 WAT, respectively. In general, similar trends were observed for pitted morningglory (Ipomoea lacunosa L.) and large crabgrass [Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop.]. Corn and soybean yield increased as both cover crop biomass and C:N ratio increased where no weed control measures were implemented beyond cover crop. The same trend was observed with cash crop yield in the weed-free subblocks, with one exception. This research indicates that cover crop residue composition is important for weed control in addition to biomass.
Beyond the Trees: Resilient Multipath for Last-mile WISP Networks.

Expanding the reach of the Internet is a topic of widespread interest today. Google and Facebook, among others, have begun investing substantial research efforts toward expanding Internet access at the edge. Compared to data center networks, which are relatively over-engineered, last-mile networks are highly constrained and end up being ultimately responsible for the performance issues that impact the user experience. The most viable and cost-effective approach for providing last-mile connectivity has proved to be Wireless ISPs (WISPs), which rely on point-to-point wireless backhaul infrastructure to provide connectivity using cheap commodity wireless hardware. However, individual WISP network links are known to have poor reliability and the networks as a whole are highly cost constrained. Motivated by these observations, we propose Wireless ISPs with Redundancy (WISPR), which leverages the cost-performance tradeoff inherent in commodity wireless hardware to move toward a greater number of inexpensive links in WISP networks thereby lowering costs. To take advantage of this new path diversity, we introduce a new, general protocol that provides increased performance, reliability, or a combination of the two.
Association of Depression and Post-Traumatic Stress with Polyvictimization and Emotional Transgender and Gender Diverse Community Connection Among Black and Latinx Transgender Women

Purpose: This study examines the relationship between polyvictimization, emotional transgender and gender diverse community connection (eTCC), and symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress d...
Max Shulman and J. Chris Westgate, eds., Performing the Progressive Era: Immigration, Urban Life, and Nationalism on Stage

Performing the Progressive Era: Immigration, Urban Life, and Nationalism on Stage offers a vivid exploration of a key period in American theatre history. Editors Max Shulman and J. Chris Westgate a...
Early Experiences of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM JAY) in India: A Narrative Review

India is a lower-middle-income country (LMIC) with 21% of its population living below the international poverty line. Yet, its government health expenditure in 2016 was only 1.17% of its ross domestic product (GDP), a share that is even lower than the average for low-income countries. India also faces a shift in disease burden, with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) emerging as top causes of mortality while infectious diseases and maternal, neonatal, and nutritional health remain areas of concern. To address these challenges and improve healthcare access and affordability for poor and vulnerable populations, India launched Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) in 2018 as a successor to the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) scheme. To further inform policy development, we synthesized the early experiences of PM-JAY by conducting a narrative review, focusing on the three dimensions of universal health coverage (UHC): population coverage, service coverage, and financial risk protection.
The EU Constitutional Treaty and the Member States: Reflections on a Quasi-Federal Polity

This chapter discusses selected aspects of the Constitutional Treaty and the process of constitutional adjudication focusing on the relations between the EU and its Member States. It traces the tendency towards the formalisation of EU law and also discusses the values of the Union, as laid down in Article I-2 of the Constitutional Treaty. Then, after a brief reference to the principle of supremacy, the chapter reviews recent case-law on EU competence and subsidiarity and examines the Protocol on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality annexed to the Constitution. There is no attempt to be exhaustive but rather to highlight trends and developments. The trend towards the formalisation of Community law, of which the Constitutional Treaty represents the culmination, is a sign of maturity of the EU polity. Keywords: community competence; EU constitutional treaty; EU member states; EU subsidiarity; gradual formalisation; proportionality
Signaling through FcRγ receptors on dendritic cells drives IL-33 dependent Th2-type responses (HYP6P.262)

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a critical role in the development of Th2 responses during atopic asthma, but the mechanism by which allergens drive DCs to promote Th2 responses is still unclear. Previously, we demonstrated that allergen-specific IgG immune complexes (ICs) enhance secondary Th2 responses via an IL-33-dependent mechanism by ligating FcγRIII on antigen presenting cells. To identify if this pathway was common to other Th2 stimuli, we used house dust mite (HDM) extract. While HDM-mediated allergic inflammation was not dependent on FcγRIII, it was reliant on the common signaling component FcRγ as FcRγ-/- mice failed to develop Th2 responses in the lung. Notably, ligation of FcRγ associated receptors, FcγRIII and Dectin-2, on DCs treated with ICs or HDM respectively, upregulated IL-33 in an FcRγ and PI3-kinase dependent manner suggesting a common pathway by which Th2 stimuli can direct the development of DCs that induce Th2 differentiation. Reestablishment of Th2 responses in the FcRγ-/- mice with an adoptive transfer of HDM-sensitized FcRγ+/- DCs indicated that the lack of response in the FcRγ-/- mice was due to a deficient response from the DCs. Interestingly, addition of recombinant IL-33 during HDM sensitization was sufficient to restore airway inflammation in FcRγ-/- mice. Overall, these data identify a mechanism whereby Th2 stimuli signal through FcRγ associated receptors on DCs to upregulate IL-33 production and induce Th2-mediated allergic airway inflammation.
On the design of high-radix on-line division for long precision

We present a design of a high-radix on-line division suitable for long precision computations. The proposed scheme uses a quotient-digit selection function based on the residual rounding and scaling of the operands. The bounds on the number of cycles and the cycle time for radix 2/sup k/ and n-bit precision are obtained in terms of full-adder delays. The speedup with respect to radix 2 is greater than 3.3 for k/spl ges/6 and n/spl ges/64. The cost increases as a function of the radix. For the case r=64 and n=64, the increase in area with respect to r=2 is about 6.6 times plus a 512/spl times/10-bit table. The proposed scheme has been designed and verified using VHDL and a 1.2 /spl mu/m CMOS standard gate technology from MOSIS library.
Using Analogy to Cluster Hand-Drawn Sketches for Sketch-Based Educational Software

One of the major challenges to building intelligent educational software is determining what kinds of feedback to give learners. Useful feedback makes use of models of domain-specific knowledge, especially models that are commonly held by potential students. To empirically determine what these models are, student data can be clustered to reveal common misconceptions or common problem-solving strategies. This article describes how analogical retrieval and generalization can be used to cluster automatically analyzed hand-drawn sketches incorporating both spatial and conceptual information. We use this approach to cluster a corpus of hand-drawn student sketches to discover common answers. Common answer clusters can be used for the design of targeted feedback and for assessment.
Edge adapted wavelet transform for image compression

Several approaches have been proposed to improve the compaction performance of the wavelet transform by taking into account the singularities present in the image and their 2D directionalities. This improvement is valid both for compression and de-noising applications. Here, we investigate an edge adaptive wavelet transform which has a better rate-distortion characteristic than the classical wavelet transform. The proposed approach can be viewed roughly as a combination of image segmentation and shape adaptive wavelet transform. The algorithm consists of two steps. In the first step we locate edges by using a sigma filter. In the second step we apply the modified wavelet transform on the separated parts of the image. We provide performance results in terms of rate-distortion curves for both 1D and relatively simple 2D signals.
Continuous Nanoclimate Data (1985-1988) from the Ross Desert (McMurdo Dry Valleys) Cryptoendolithic Microbial Ecosystem

We have collected year-round nanoclimate data for the cryptoendolithic microbial habitat in sandstones of the Ross desert, Antarctica, obtained with an Argos satellite data system. Data for two sites in the McMurdo Dry Valleys are available: Linnaeus Terrace, January 1985 to June 1988, and Battleship Promontory, 1986-1987. The focus of this research is ecological, and hence year-round environmental data have been obtained for the ambient environment as well as for conditions within the rock. Using data from the summer, we compare the conditions inside the rock to the outside weather. This demonstrates how the rock provides a shelter for the endolithic microbial community. The most important property of the rock is that it absorbs the summer sunlight, thereby warming up to temperatures above freezing. This warming allows snowmelt to seep into the rock, and the moisture level in the rocks can remain high for weeks against loss to the dry environment.
SPICE-the fourth decade analog and mixed-signal simulation-a state of the art

This paper describes the challenges facing analog designers today and the progress of EDA capabilities towards this need. The recent developments are presented as an evolution from a single analysis tool, the Berkeley SPICE simulator to the multitude of analog simulation and characterization tools.
ESTIMATING DISCHARGE FROM SUPERELEVATION IN BENDS

A method is presented for estimating open channel discharge from the maximum superelevation measured in the bends. It was based on data assembled from a dozen sources, representing about 70 separate experiments in the subcritical flow regime, and including information on channels of different cross-sectional shapes, included angles, and curvature ratios. The resulting predictive equation includes the effects of curvature ratio, included angle, and superelevation on discharge. The method was applied to a single flow event on Buffalo Creek, N.Y. It was found that only curves in which the flow remained in-bank could be used to predict discharge and that superelevations of less than 0.25 ft (7.6 cm) had to be excluded. The probable error of the Buffalo Creek analysis was 8% with respect to the mean of the discharges predicted from individual curves, while the data upon which the method was based had a probable error of 12%.
Principles of simple heart rate adjustment of ST segment depression during exercise electrocardiography

Compared with standard test criteria, simple heart rate (HR) adjustment of ST depression during exercise electrocardiography can improve the identification and assessment of underlying coronary artery disease. Since heart rate during exercise drives progressive ST segment depression in the presence of coronary obstruction that limits flow reserve, the ST/HR index controls for the increasing metabolic severity of ischemia that accompanies exercise. Improvement of exercise test sensitivity with the ST/HR index results from reclassification of otherwise "equivocal" and even "negative" test responses, including increased identification of one and two-vessel disease in men and in women. In addition, in population studies of low and moderate risk subjects, the ST/HR index can increase the prognostic value of the exercise electrocardiogram for prediction of cardiac risk and mortality.
QUANTUM OSCILLATORS: APPLICATIONS IN STATISTICAL MECHANICS

We consider a canonical ensemble of q oscillators. Using classical realization for q oscillator algebra,17 we calculate, for a small real q, the partition function and thermodynamic potentials F, E and S. We show that F reaches the minimum and E and S the maximum (as functions of the deformation parameter q) when q = 1 (for the classical oscillator). We argue about possible far-reaching consequences of this fact. As an application we obtain a first quantum correction to Planck's black body radiation law. We introduce the slightly deformed oscillator (SDO) model, which provides us with a significant amount of information about the system. When q = 1, our results are shown to coincide with classical results.
Submerged Valleys and Barrier Reefs

IN a letter on “Dana's Proof of Darwin's Theory of Coral Reefs”, published in NATURE for April 3, Mr. Cyril Crossland points out that “land valleys which extend beneath the sea are not always proof of subsidence. Such valleys, like coral reefs, may owe their existence to different factors in different tases”. He adds that certain harbours on the east coast of Africa “are the high parts of submarine fault valleys”, which, although they simulate embayments produced by the general depression and partial submergence of a dissected coastal region, really result from the local depression of fault blocks, and hence cannot be taken as evidence that any coral reefs which may occur near them have been built up during a period of submergence.
A CASE REPORT OF AN EPIDERMAL PAPILLOMA IN Mustelus canis1

A white, raised mass present on the caudal fin of a smooth dogfish shark (Mustelus canis) was identified as an epidermal papilloma with areas suggestive of carcinoma in situ. When examined by electron microscopy no structures or particles of viral origin were apparent.
Explaining Refinancing Decisions Using Microdata

This paper develops a model which explains how mortgage-rate movements, transactions costs, changes in borrower income and house value, personal financial opportunities and the prepayment option embedded in fixed-rate mortgages affect a financially flexible borrower's decision to refinance an existing loan while retaining the underlying home. Broadening the focus of previous analytical work, the model explains why households with similar mortgage loans may react differently as financial market conditions change. It contains definitive empirical predictions that are supported by an analysis of a choice-based sample of individual loan transactions. Results suggest that refinancings are motivated both by movements in the level of interest rates and by borrowers' desires to alter their capital structures in the face of changing income and housing wealth.
Vascular priming enhances chemotherapeutic efficacy against head and neck cancer

Summary Purpose The need to improve chemotherapeutic efficacy against head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) is well recognized. In this study, we investigated the potential of targeting the established tumor vasculature in combination with chemotherapy in head and neck cancer. Methods Experimental studies were carried out in multiple human HNSCC xenograft models to examine the activity of the vascular disrupting agent (VDA) 5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid (DMXAA) in combination with chemotherapy. Multimodality imaging (magnetic resonance imaging, bioluminescence) in conjunction with drug delivery assessment (fluorescence microscopy), histopathology and microarray analysis was performed to characterize tumor response to therapy. Long-term treatment outcome was assessed using clinically-relevant end points of efficacy. Results Pretreatment of tumors with VDA prior to administration of chemotherapy increased intratumoral drug delivery and treatment efficacy. Enhancement of therapeutic efficacy was dependent on the dose and duration of VDA treatment but was independent of the chemotherapeutic agent evaluated. Combination treatment resulted in increased tumor cell kill and improvement in progression-free survival and overall survival in both ectopic and orthotopic HNSCC models. Conclusion Our results show that preconditioning of the tumor microenvironment with an antivascular agent primes the tumor vasculature and results in enhancement of chemotherapeutic delivery and efficacy in vivo . Further investigation into the activity of antivascular agents in combination with chemotherapy against HNSCC is warranted.
Traditional lipoprotein profile: clinical utility, performance requirements, and standardization☆

The lipid and lipoprotein parameters which are predominantly measured and effectively comprise the traditional lipoprotein profile include total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglyceride. Total cholesterol is accepted as the initial entry point in a case finding approach such as that recommended by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). HDL cholesterol, known to be a strong inverse predicator of risk, is an additional measurement to total cholesterol to improve risk assessments. The evidence for triglyceride association remains mixed: although strong associations are found in some studies, the evidence as an independent risk factor is still incomplete. Triglyceride is therefore measured primarily for LDL estimation. Final classification and potential intervention is ultimately based on the measurement of LDL cholesterol. Reliability in the measurement of total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglyceride is especially important if the uniform decision points established by the NCEP are to be properly implemented. Attention must be placed on controlling preanalytical sources of variation, which can account for as much as 60% of the total measurement variability. The major analytical source of error comes from matrix effects, which results in problems of proper analytical calibration. Instrument system calibration should be verified by a comparison with an accuracy base using fresh patient specimens. CDC has established a network of reference method laboratories to provide access to these lipid and lipoprotein accuracy bases.
Nitrate Leaching from Soil Core Lysimeters Treated with Urine or Feces under Orchardgrass: Measurement and Simulation

The ability of the N submodel, LEACHN, of the Leaching Estimation And CHemical Model (LEACHM model) to simulate nitrate-nitrogen (NO 3 -N) leaching from orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) pasture was evaluated using field data from a 2-yr experiment. Leaching data were collected from an experiment conducted in central Pennsylvania on Hagerstown silt loam soil (fine, mixed, mesic, Typic Hapludalf). Nitrate losses below the 1-m depth from N-fertilized orchardgrass sod were measured with intact soil core lysimeters (0.6-m diam. by 1-m long). Five N fertilizer treatments consisted of a control, urine application in the spring, urine application in the summer, urine application in the fall, and feces application in the summer. Calibration N transformation rate constants from previous work with inorganic fertilizer and manure treatments under corn were used to evaluate the LEACHN model under pasture conditions. Statistical analysis indicated that the model accurately predicted annual NO 3 -N leaching below the 1-m depth for three to five of the five treatments in each year. The model failed to produce accurate predictions for the control and feces treatments in 1993 to 1994. The simulation error in these two treatments appeared to be related to soil N transformation rate constants in the model. Other reasons for discrepancies between measured and simulated NO 3 -N leaching for some months may have been due to restricted water flow associated with frozen soil or a heavy snowpack during winter. Results demonstrate the potential of the LEACHN model to predict NO 3 -N leaching under pasture conditions using N transformation rate constants determined through the calibration process from corn (Zea mays L.) fields on similar soils.
Therapy with cultured T cells: principles revisited

In animals and in humans, T-cell therapy can cure advanced disseminated leukemia that would otherwise be fatal. The therapeutic effect of immune T cells is quantitative. As the dose of effector T cells is increased, survival is proportionately increased. Therefore, effective T-cell therapy is predicated on the ability to procure large numbers of immune effector T cells. By using cultured T cells, the number of immune T cells can be increased in vivo substantially above the level achievable by vaccination. The survival of cultured T cells in vivo is dependent upon both the culture conditions used and the therapeutic regimens employed. Under appropriate conditions, cultured T cells can proliferate in vivo in response to stimulation by antigen, distribute widely and survive long term to provide effector function and immunologic memory. Given that T cells recognize peptides, the need for immunization with tumor can be circumvented by immunization with peptide. Peptide-specific T cells and the progeny of single T-cell clones can provide the necessary cellular functions to eradicate disseminated murine leukemia. The ability of cloned T cells to similarly provide substantial measurable immunity in humans has been validated in clinical trials. By priming with peptides and by using established culture conditions, T-cell therapy can now be directed against virtually any antigen within the host T-cell repertoire. The major remaining question to be answered is which proteins and which peptides are the most suitable targets for T-cell therapy trials.
An augmented-space recursive technique for the calculation of electronic structure of random binary alloys

We present here a computationally feasible and fast technique for obtaining the electronic structure of random alloys which allows us to incorporate effects like clustering, short-range order and off-diagonal disorder arising out of size mismatch and consequent lattice distortions. The method combines the augmented-space technique with the recursion method and the tight-binding LMTO. AgPd alloys are studied to illustrate our procedure.
Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid (TUDCA) Protects Photoreceptors from Cell Death after Experimental Retinal Detachment

Background Detachment of photoreceptors from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium is seen in various retinal disorders such as retinal detachment and age-related macular degeneration and leads to loss of photoreceptors and vision. Pharmacologic inhibition of photoreceptor cell death may prevent this outcome. This study tests whether systemic administration of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) can protect photoreceptors from cell death after experimental retinal detachment in rodents. Methodology/principal findings Retinal detachment was created in rats by subretinal injection of hyaluronic acid. The animals were treated daily with vehicle or TUDCA (500 mg/kg). TUNEL staining was used to evaluate cell death. Photoreceptor loss was evaluated by measuring the relative thickness of the outer nuclear layer (ONL). Macrophage recruitment, oxidative stress, cytokine levels, and caspase levels were also quantified. Three days after detachment, TUDCA decreased the number of TUNEL-positive cells compared to vehicle (651±68/mm(2) vs. 1314±68/mm(2), P = 0.001) and prevented the reduction of ONL thickness ratio (0.84±0.03 vs. 0.65±0.03, P = 0.002). Similar results were obtained after 5 days of retinal detachment. Macrophage recruitment and expression levels of TNF-a and MCP-1 after retinal detachment were not affected by TUDCA treatment, whereas increases in activity of caspases 3 and 9 as well as carbonyl-protein adducts were almost completely inhibited by TUDCA treatment. Conclusions/significance Systemic administration of TUDCA preserved photoreceptors after retinal detachment, and was associated with decreased oxidative stress and caspase activity. TUDCA may be used as a novel therapeutic agent for preventing vision loss in diseases that are characterized by photoreceptor detachment.
Characterization of new diagnostic acylcarnitines in patients with β-ketothiolase deficiency and glutaric aciduria type I using mass spectrometry

Direct analysis of unpurified urine from patients with beta-ketothiolase deficiency and glutaryl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency was carried out by methylation and fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry. Previously unidentified signals consistent with unusual acylcarnitines were detected. In the former disease, thermospray liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis confirmed the identification of tiglylcarnitine and differentiated it from a biological isomer, 3-methylcrotonylcarnitine. In glutaric aciduria, glutarylcarnitine was confirmed by detection of glutaric acid liberated upon base hydrolysis of a purified acylcarnitine fraction. The discovery of these metabolites suggests that L-carnitine therapy might be beneficial for the enhanced excretion of toxic metabolites that accumulate in patients with these disorders.
Determinants of early amphibian development

The animal-vegetal organization of the amphibian egg may originate from the axis of organelles and cytoskeletal elements established in the oocyte as it divides from the oogonium. Along this axis, cytoplasmic materials are localized during oogenesis: yolk platelets, for example, are translocated toward the vegetal pole, increasing their amount and size in that region. In the first cell cycle after fertilization, the egg cortex rotates 30° relative to the cytoplasmic core, modifying animal-vegetal organization. The direction of this rotation, biased by the point of sperm entry, defines the site of development of anatomical structures of the dorsal midline of the embryo. As its immediate effect, rotation activates the cytoplasm of a subregion of the vegetal hemisphere, causing cells cleaved from this subregion to be more effective than other vegetal parts in inducing marginal zone cells to initiate gastrulation movements. The most strongly induced part of the marginal zone begins gastrulation first (the dorsal lip of the blastopore) and proceeds through a series of cell interactions leading to its determination as the anterior dorsal mesoderm of the embryo. If these cell movements are inhibited in the gastrula stage, or if vegetal induction is inhibited in the blastula stage, or if cortical rotation is inhibited in the first cell cycle after fertilization, the embryo always fails to develop dorsal structures of the anterior end of its body axis; the more inhibition, the more posterior is the level of truncation, until a radial ventralized embryo develops, derived from the animal-vegetal organization of the oocyte.
Cassini CAPS ground system evolution and lessons learned

Recently the Cassini CAPS team investigated the number of different software tools, programming languages, programs, and major technologies used in building and running its ground system12. A total of twenty six different tools, programs, and major technologies were used in the downlink portion of the ground system and five different tools, programs, and major technologies are used for the uplink portion. This collection of tools, programs, and technologies were not considered in the initial ground system design at the beginning of operations, but were added as they were needed to address changing requirements.
Reaction of amino acid-tRNA synthetases with 2'-deoxyadenosine triphosphate.

All of the amino acid activating enzymes studied are capable of reacting with dATP in place of ATP. None of the other available nucleotides was found to be used by these enzymes. The Km of dATP is generally higher than that of ATP but the maximum velocities are similar in the complete reaction, esterification of transfer RNA. The rates of pyrophosphate exchange are much lower with dATP than with ATP in the cases studied.
Teaching good systems design for spreadsheet projects

Abstract One of the greatest challenges facing any business is creating information and accounting systems that work, and one of the greatest challenges in accounting education is to teach effective systems design in the limited time available. Accountants need to be knowledgeable in systems principles, but often students' systems exposure is limited to a one semester course in Accounting Information Systems. This paper describes the application of structured design to spreadsheets. Spreadsheet construction projects can then be used in an Accounting Information Systems course to teach system design principles. The advantages of this approach are: (1) that systems with sufficient complexity to illustrate the principles and techniques of good design can be constructed in a few weeks, (2) the spreadsheet software neither forces good design not prohibits it, thus requiring good design to be built in by conscious choice, and (3) it is an active, hands-on approach, which greatly facilitates learning.
Trypanosome and Animal Lanosterol Synthases Use Different Catalytic Motifs

Animals, fungi, and some protozoa convert oxidosqualene to lanosterol in the ring-forming reaction in sterol biosynthesis. The Trypanosoma cruzi lanosterol synthase has now been cloned. The sequence shares with the T. brucei lanosterol synthase a tyrosine substitution for the catalytically important active-site threonine found in animal and fungal lanosterol synthases.
Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization Synthesis and Magnetic Characterization of MnFe2O4/Polystyrene Core/Shell Nanoparticles

An atom transfer radical polymerization route is developed for the coating of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles with polystyrene yielding the core−shell nanoparticles with size <15 nm. Magnetic studies show a decrease in coercivity after the formation of polystyrene shell, which is considered due to the reduction of magnetic surface anisotropy upon polymer coating. The MnFe2O4 nanoparticles as the magnetic core were separately prepared by a reverse micelle microemulsion method. Polymerization initiators are chemically attached onto the surface of nanoparticles. The modified nanoparticles are then used as macro-initiators in the subsequent polymerization reaction. This approach provides great flexibility in the selection of magnetic core. Consequently, magnetic tunability is able to be introduced into these core/shell nanoparticulate systems to achieve the desired superparamagnetic response.
Correlates of sleep latency on the multiple sleep latency test in a clinical population

The multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) is commonly used as an objective measure of sleepiness. We retrospectively correlated MSLT scores from 147 patients with other information relating to sleepiness, namely demographic information, data from nocturnal polysomnograms (PSGs), and subjective assessments. The only variable that showed a valid and statistically significant correlation with the MSLT score was sleep latency on the PSG. The results were largely similar within subgroups focusing on (1) individuals with the ability to fall asleep on every nap, (2) subjects with abnormally short MSLT scores, (3) nap attempts that were successful, and (4) patients with particular diagnoses. We conclude that the mean sleep latency on the MSLT, in a clinical population, does not correlate well with a number of variables expected to influence sleepiness. While the validated utility of the MSLT in separating patients from normals or in identifying narcolepsy is not disputed, the accuracy of the MSLT as a measure of sleepiness appears to be limited.