cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
John Schellman and the birth of protein folding

John Schellman, who passed away on December 16, 2014, had two exceptional teachers, Walter Kauzmann and Kaj Linderstrom-Lang, both of whom quickly recognized John’s scientific depth and creativity. His doctoral work with Kauzmann at Princeton University taught John how to find the basic issues in a new research area and how to solve problems. His postdoctoral work with Linderstrom-Lang placed John in a remarkable environment. The Carlsberg Laboratory in the 1950s was a magnet for scientists who recognized that the new field of protein folding was taking form, and that its epicenter was Linderstrom-Lang. Together with his gifted research assistant Aase Hvidt, Linderstrom-Lang was developing a new research tool, hydrogen exchange (HX) (1, 2), which he believed (correctly) would be the experimental key to learning how proteins fold. Frequent visitors to Linderstrom-Lang’s laboratory at that time included Chris Anfinsen and Walter Kauzmann, who wanted to catch the spirit of the new protein-folding field and to learn the latest news. Other young (and subsequently major) protein folders in Linderstrom-Lang’s laboratory during John’s time included Bill Harrington, Fred Richards, Harold Scheraga, and Charlotte Green (Schellman), who soon became John’s wife.
Myelodysplastic syndromes: 2015 Update on diagnosis, risk-stratification and management.

Disease overview: The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a very heterogeneous group of myeloid disorders characterized by peripheral blood cytopenias and increased risk of transformation to acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). MDS occurs more frequently in older males and in individuals with prior exposure to cytotoxic therapy. Diagnosis: Diagnosis of MDS is based on morphological evidence of dysplasia upon visual examination of a bone marrow aspirate and biopsy. Information obtained from additional studies such as karyotype, flow cytometry, or molecular genetics is complementary but not diagnostic. Risk-stratification: Prognosis of patients with MDS can be calculated using a number of scoring systems. In general, all these scoring systems include analysis of peripheral cytopenias, percentage of blasts in the bone marrow, and cytogenetic characteristics. The most commonly used system still is probably the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS). IPSS is being replaced by the new revised score IPSS-R. Risk-adapted therapy: Therapy is selected based on risk, transfusion needs, percent of bone marrow blasts, and more recently cytogenetic and mutational profiles. Goals of therapy are different in lower risk patients than in higher risk. In lower risk, the goal is to decrease transfusion needs and transformation to higher risk disease or AML, as well as to improve survival. In higher risk, the goal is to prolong survival. Current available therapies include growth factor support, lenalidomide, hypomethylating agents, intensive chemotherapy, and allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The use of lenalidomide has significant clinical activity in patients with lower risk disease, anemia, and a chromosome 5 alteration. 5-Azacitidine and decitabine have activity in higher risk MDS. 5-Azacitidine has been shown to improve survival in higher risk MDS. A number of new molecular lesions have been described in MDS that may serve as new therapeutic targets or aid in the selection of currently available agents. Additional supportive care measures may include the use of prophylactic antibiotics and iron chelation. Management of progressive or refractory disease: At the present time there are no approved interventions for patients with progressive or refractory disease particularly after hypomethylating based therapy. Options include participation in a clinical trial or cytarabine based therapy and stem cell transplantation. Am. J. Hematol. 90:832–841, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A comprehensive correlating equation for laminar, assisting, forced and free convection

A correlating equation for assisting convection was developed by combining correlating equations for pure free and pure forced convection. These component equations are based on laminar boundary-layer theory for an isothermal, vertical plate. Theoretical values for assisting convection indicate that the third root of the sum of the third powers gives the best representation, as contrasted with the choice and rationalization of the second or fourth power by prior investigators. This expression was modified by the addition of a limiting value Nuo to obtain a better representation below the domain of boundary-layer theory and was generalized for uniform heating and for spheres and horizontal cylinders by the appropriate choice of the characteristic length.
Pain Assessment: The Roles of Physician Certainty and Curiosity

Undertreatment of pain is common even when caused by serious illness. We examined whether physician-patient communication (particularly language indicating physician certainty) was associated with incomplete (i.e., premature closure) of pain assessment among patients with serious illness. Standardized patients (SPs) trained to portray patients with serious illness conducted unannounced, covertly audio-recorded visits to 20 consenting family physicians and 20 medical specialists. We coded extent of pain assessment, physician voice tone, and a measure of the degree to which physicians explored and validated patient concerns. To assess physician certainty, we searched transcripts for use of words that conveyed certainty using the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count program. SP role fidelity was 94%, and few physicians were suspicious that they had seen an SP (14% of visits). Regression analyses showed that physicians who used more certainty language engaged in less thorough assessment of pain (β = -0.48, p < .05). Conversely, physicians who engaged in more exploring and validating of patient concerns (β = 0.27, p < .05) had higher ratings on anxiety/concerned voice tone (β = 0.25, p <.01) and engaged in more thorough assessment of pain. Together, these three factors accounted for 38% of the variance in pain assessment. Physicians who convey certainty in discussions with patients suffering from pain may be more likely to close prematurely their assessment of pain. We found that expressions of physician concern and responsiveness (curiosity) were associated with superior pain assessment. Further study is needed to determine whether these associations are causal and mutable.
The Effect of Constant Illumination on the Circadian Rhythms of Plasma Thyrotropin and Corticosterone and on the Estrous Cycle in the Rat

Young adult female rats were kept on a normal light/dark (LD) schedule (12 h light beginning at 0600 h) for 10 days. Eighteen rats were then kept in constant light (LL) for 110 days; 9 controls were maintained on LD. All rats were then kept on LD for a further 30 days. Vaginal smears were made 5 days per week. Plasma TSH and corticosterone were measured on consecutive days at 1100–1130 h and 1745–1815 h. LD controls maintained normal rhythms of plasma TSH and corticosterone and of estrus throughout the experiment. After beginning LL, plasma corticosterone and TSH AM-PM differences in group means disappeared within one week, while constant estrus did not appear until approximately 4 weeks. Marked AM-PM differences in plasma hormone concentration were present in individual LL rats. Within 1 week of the return to LD, normal estrous, TSH, and corticosterone rhythms had resumed. There was a significant negative correlation of plasma TSH and corticosterone (P 0.1). From t...
Workflow management of simulation based computation processes in transportation domain

Simulation based computational analysis is a key approach for system design and evaluation in many domains. These computation processes are often complex and experience-based, requiring domain scientists and engineers to deal with heterogeneous simulation models and applications in an integrated manner. As domain users employ simulations for increasingly sophisticated studies, management of the computation tasks and avalanche of legacy models becomes a barrier to decision making and high quality research. In this paper, we present a semantic approach to simulation based computation process modeling and management in transportation domain. The workflow representation of processes, semantic descriptions of underlying models and applications and processing these information form the basis of our approach. We have implemented this approach in a prototype system and used it in real-world applications.
The effect of a polymeric additive on the evaporation of organic aerocolloidal droplets

The evaporation of single triethyl phosphate (TEP) micro-droplets containing a high molecular weight polymer, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMAA), was inves-tigated using an electrodynamic trap and light scattering measurements to explore the suppression of evaporation by the additive. Pure-component evaporation rates were measured to determine the vapor pressure over a range of temperatures, and the polymer was found to significantly decrease the evaporation rate. A numerical solution of the problem of simultaneous solvent evaporation and polymer diffusion within the droplet indicated a rapid build-up of PMMA at the surface of the drop, but vapor/liquid thermodynamic considerations alone do not account for the observed reduction in the evaporation rate for the droplets containing PMMA. After significant evaporation of TEP occurred, the ultra-low evaporation rate was measured using changes in the Raman spectra associated with morphology-dependent resonances. The evaporation in this regime appears to be controlled by the rate of solvent molecules diffusing through the polymer matrix.
The structure, catalytic mechanism and regulation of adenylyl cyclase

The recent structure determinations of the mammalian effector enzyme adenylyl cyclase reveal the structure of its catalytic core, provide new insights into its catalytic mechanism and suggest how diverse signaling molecules regulate its activity.
The iPod… No Shiny Metal Object Here

(2007). The iPod… No Shiny Metal Object Here. Community & Junior College Libraries: Vol. 13, No. 4, pp. 89-92.
Conformational changes of pore helix coupled to gating of TRPV5 by protons

The transient receptor potential channel TRPV5 constitutes the apical entry pathway for transepithelial Ca2+ transport. We showed that TRPV5 was inhibited by both physiological intra- and extracellular acid pH. Inhibition of TRPV5 by internal protons was enhanced by extracellular acidification. Similarly, inhibition by external protons was enhanced by intracellular acidification. Mutation of either an extra- or an intracellular pH sensor blunted the crossinhibition by internal and external protons. Both internal and external protons regulated the selectivity filter gate. Using the substituted cysteine accessibility method, we found that intracellular acidification of TRPV5 caused a conformational change of the pore helix consistent with clockwise rotation along its long axis. Thus, rotation of pore helix caused by internal protons facilitates closing of TRPV5 by external protons. This regulation by protons likely contributes to pathogenesis of disturbances of Ca2+ transport in many diseased states. Rotation of pore helix may be a common mechanism for crossregulation of ion channels by extra- and intracellular signals.
Fast superconducting storage systems

A review of the requirements for a fast superconducting inductive pulsed storage system is presented. The discussion includes in particular, the important characteristics of the components of the pulsed source: the high current source, the switch and the energy transfer scheme. In addition, a proposed superconducting pulsed source incorporating some of these characteristics is described.
Dichotic Ear Preference in Aphasia

A dichotic listening test, composed of 30 CVC-word pairs, was administered to 20 adults with aphasia and 20 normal adults. The subjects with aphasia were selected for inclusion in one of four experimental groups which differed according to initial severity of aphasia and time post onset. All experimental subjects were given a diagnostic language test within the first four weeks following aphasia onset and again at the time of dichotic testing. Difference scores provided a quantitative estimate of language improvement. Data analysis revealed a strong left-ear preference ( −0.363) for the experimental subjects which differed significantly from a right-ear preference ( +0.290) obtained from the normal control subjects. Further, initial severity of aphasia was found to be a significant variable, capable of influencing the magnitude of ear preference. Multiple regression and partial correlational methods revealed significant, positive relationships between the magnitude of ear preference and initial severity o...
Algebraic Biology: Creating Invariant Binding Relations for Biochemical and Biological Categories

The desire to understand the mathematics of living systems is increasing. The widely held presupposition that the mathematics developed for modeling of physical systems as continuous functions can be extended to the discrete chemical reactions of genetic systems is viewed with skepticism. The skepticism is grounded in the issue of scientific invariance and the role of the International System of Units in representing the realities of the apodictic sciences. Various formal logics contribute to the theories of biochemistry and molecular biology and genetics. Various paths of extension are invoked in these formal logics in order to express the information of biological apodicticism. Symbolizing the appropriate notations for invariant relations and for biological extensions of relations is fundamental to the exact generating functions of discrete algebraic biology. Aspects of philosophical perspectives of the relation scientific number systems are contrasted. The deep distinction between physical motion and biological motion is expressed in terms the roles of Aristotelian causes. The interior motion within perplex numbers is contrasted with the exterior motion of physical systems. The need for a new mathematics for biology is suggested.
Capsule commentary on Wilson et al., the prevalence of harmful and hazardous alcohol consumption in U.S. older adults.

Alcohol plays an important role in US Society; for many, social functions such as a trip to the ballgame or an evening out would not be complete without a beer or a glass of wine. The perils of alcohol are well known; it’s the leading cause of traffic fatalities in the United States and other health and social consequences of excess alcohol consumption are common. Largely in response to the social consequences of excess drinking, temperance societies have existed worldwide since the 1800s and were able to successfully ban alcohol for several years in many countries including Canada (1901–1924), Iceland (1915–1935), Finland (1919–1932), Norway (1916–1927) and the United States (1919–1933). Wilson and colleagues found that less than half of older Americans drank at all, declining to less than one-third by age 80.1 Based on the amount consumed, they found that 15 % of older drinkers exceeded recommended limits, but when other health characteristics were taken into account, drinking was potentially harmful in over one-third of those who drank. Wilson’s findings are not new; they are similar to results reported in previous studies that included both the amount and the subject’s health characteristics in judging the healthiness of drinking.2 This study serves to remind providers that it’s not just the amount consumed that needs to be considered; even modest consumption may be harmful in patients with some health conditions. Unfortunately, most current alcohol screens rely heavily on classifying drinking based on the amount consumed,3 and don’t take into consideration comorbidities such as depression or chronic hepatitis. Unfortunately, problems in primary care providers’ communication with patients about drinking have been well documented.4,5 Screening and intervention for alcohol needs to be contextualized, taking into account more than just the amount consumed, and primary care providers need better training and tools to intervene in their older adults who could be engaging in harmful drinking.
Common adjuvant breast cancer therapies do not inhibit cancer vaccine induced T cell immunity

Cancer vaccines may have the most potential for clinical impact when used in the adjuvant setting when tumor burden is at its lowest. Application of cancer vaccines in the adjuvant setting, however, requires integration of immunization with more standard cytotoxic or cytostatic therapies. Common adjuvant therapies for breast cancer patients, i.e. trastuzumab, bisphosphonates and hormonal agents are often administered over several years requiring concurrent administration of these drugs with active immunization. We questioned whether these common adjuvant therapies would impact a patient’s ability to develop tumor specific immunity with vaccination. Immune parameters from 36 subjects were evaluated. We determined these adjuvant therapies have no impact on the ability to develop an immune response specific for HER-2/neu peptides (P > 0.1) nor do they have an impact on the magnitude of T cell immunity developed with concurrent vaccination (P > 0.1). This is the first report to show that the use of trastuzumab, bisphosphonates and hormonal therapy concurrent with cancer vaccine administration have no impact on either the generation or the magnitude of vaccine induced immunity.
Developmental Changes in the Speed of Information Processing

Summary Speed of information processing was estimated in a group of 108 boys, aged 54–207 months, by subtracting each S's simple reaction time (RT) from his choice RT obtained in a task involving two alternative stimuli. The resulting quantity, namely the decision time (DT), was found to be related to age according to a reciprocal power-law function. The correlation coefficient between log DT and log age, which was equal to - .69, was highly significant (p < < .001). On the basis of the regression equation derived from these data, 5-year-olds took nearly three times longer than 17-year-olds to process one bit of information.
THE BASAL METABOLIC RATE IN EXOPHTHALMIC GOITRE (1917 CASES) WITH A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE TECHNIC USED AT THE MAYO CLINIC

“In each mammal there is a basal metabolism” (19). By the term “basal metabolism” or better, “basal metabolic rate,” of an organism is meant the minimal heat production of that organism, measured from twelve to eighteen hours after the ingestion of food and with the organism at complete muscular rest. This minimal heat production may be determined directly by actual measurement by means of a calorimeter, or indirectly, by calculating the heat production from an analysis of the end products which result from oxidation within the organism, or specifically, from the amount of oxygen used and the corresponding amount of carbon dioxid produced, together with the total nitrogen eliminated in the urine (although, for clinical work the urinary nitrogen may be neglected). The experimental work of Lavoisier (17) marks the beginning of researches on metabolism, and to him belongs the conception that the life processes are those of oxidation with the elimination of heat. Technically, the problem was beset with many d...
Bilinear invariant representation for video classification and retrieval

In this paper, we present a novel bilinear invariant representation for video classification and retrieval. We rely on the kernel space in functional analysis to formulate a general invariants theory. We show that null-space invariants is a special case of the general theory when the transformation is linear. Subsequently, we derive an invariant basis representation for bilinear transformations. We also extend the basis representation to tensor bilinear invariants. We demonstrate that the proposed bilinear invariant basis provides a much more powerful tool than null-space invariants for video classification and retrieval when the different data elements undergo distinct transformations. Simulation results illustrate the superior performance of the proposed bilinear invariant basis representation compared to traditional approaches to invariant video classification and retrieval.
A dynamic programming model of energy storage and transformer deployments to relieve distribution constraints

We introduce a stochastic dynamic programming (SDP) model that co-optimizes multiple uses of distributed energy storage, including energy and ancillary service sales, backup capacity, and transformer loading relief, while accounting for market and system uncertainty. We propose an approximation technique to efficiently solve the SDP. We also use a case study with high residential loads to demonstrate that a deployment consisting of both storage and transformer upgrades decreases costs and increases value relative to a transformer-only deployment.
Controlled exposure of female rhesus monkeys to 2,3,7,8-TCDD : concentrations of TCDD in fat of offspring, and its decline over time

Abstract Monkeys exposed to maternal TCDD in utero and for four months of nursing were biopsied for mesenteric fat at 4, 12 and 24 months of age. By assay, the TCDD in fat declined approximately first order at a mean half-life of 121 days, and at a half-life of ∼181 days when adjusted for body growth and percent body fat.
Laparoscopic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy in breast cancer patients after transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous flap reconstructive surgery.

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the feasibility and outcome of laparoscopic risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) in patients with a history of breast cancer who previously had undergone a transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous (TRAM) flap reconstruction. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients with a history of breast cancer who had undergone laparoscopic RRSO between February 1995 and April 2002. Patients who had undergone TRAM flap reconstructive surgery were compared with patients who had undergone laparoscopic RRSO without prior reconstructive surgery. Results: We identified 102 patients with a history of breast cancer who were candidates for a laparoscopic RRSO during the study period. One hundred one of these patients underwent the procedure, including 10 patients with a history of TRAM flap breast reconstructive surgery. One patient did not undergo the procedure because she was noted to be hypotensive prior to the procedure from her bowel preparation. There were no differences between the groups with or without prior history of TRAM flap reconstruction with respect to body mass index, prior abdominal surgery, menopausal status, or preoperative ultrasound characteristics. Operatively, there was no difference between the groups with respect to estimated blood loss, hospital stay, and intraoperative and postoperative complication rates. The only noted difference between the two groups was the estimated operating time (TRAM group, 91 min; non-TRAM group, 70 min [ P Conclusions: Laparoscopic RRSO is safe and feasible in patients who have undergone a prior TRAM flap reconstruction.
Endoscopic spinal tethered cord release: operative technique

This study aims to describe solely endoscopic surgical techniques for the treatment of spinal pathology. Here, we present a novel endoscopic technique for surgical untethering of the spinal cord by filum sectioning and discuss endoscopic surgical management of this entity. Two patients (ages 8 months and 10 years) presented with leg weakness, urine and bowel dysfunction, low back and neck pain, and thickened, fatty filum terminale. The elder patient presented with clinical incontinence and abnormal urodynamic studies. Both patients underwent a solely endoscopic approach using 0° and 30°, 4 mm in diameter and 18 cm in length rigid endoscopes via a hemilaminectomy. Intradural microdissection under a direct visualization of endoscope delivered the fatty filum into the durotomy. Electrical stimulation was performed while the lower extremities and the anal sphincter were monitored for electromyographic activity. After acquisition of positive controls, the filum was identified by the lack of sphincter and lower extremity electromyographic responses and was then cauterized and cut. Both patients had significant improvement of their preoperative symptoms, and one patient had resolution of the abnormal urodynamics and her Chiari symptoms. Tethered spinal cords can be safely and effectively untethered endoscopically. This procedure provides the advantages of reduced soft tissue injury, less postoperative pain, minimal blood loss, a smaller incision, and a shorter hospitalization. However, whether the endoscopic untethering technique achieves benefits above those associated with the open procedure remains to be determined by a control study.
SPECT of the peritoneal cavity: method for delineating intraperitoneal fluid distribution

Seventeen single-photon emission CT (SPECT) studies were performed after intraperitoneal administration of 99mTc-sulfur colloid in patients with a history of colon cancer to assess the extent of intraperitoneal fluid distribution prior to intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Planar gamma images were also obtained in all patients for correlation with the SPECT findings. Four patients had transmission CT scans of the abdomen after intraperitoneal administration of iodinated contrast material. In seven patients, repeat planar and SPECT studies were performed with the original or a different infusion volume to determine if different volumes altered the fluid distribution qualitatively or quantitatively (using a linear profile method). We found that 360 degrees peritoneal SPECT is easily performed after intraperitoneal administration of 99mTc-sulfur colloid. SPECT provides more detailed anatomic information than planar scans do. Spaces of the upper abdomen, such as the lesser sac, were resolved better with SPECT than...
Autophosphorylation of the Fes Tyrosine Kinase EVIDENCE FOR AN INTERMOLECULAR MECHANISM INVOLVING TWO KINASE DOMAIN TYROSINE RESIDUES

The human c-fes proto-oncogene encodes a cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase (Fes) that is associated with multiple hematopoietic cytokine receptors. Fes tyrosine autophosphorylation sites may regulate kinase activity and recruit downstream signaling proteins with SH2 domains. To localize the Fes autophosphorylation sites, full-length Fes and deletion mutants lacking either the unique N-terminal or SH2 domain were autophosphorylated in vitro and analyzed by CNBr cleavage. Identical phosphopeptides of 10 and 4 kDa were produced with all three proteins, localizing the tyrosine autophosphorylation sites to the C-terminal kinase domain. Substitution of kinase domain tyrosine residues 713 or 811 with phenylalanine resulted in a loss of the 10- and 4-kDa phosphopeptides, respectively, identifying these tyrosines as in vitro autophosphorylation sites. CNBr cleavage analysis of Fes isolated from 32PO4-labeled 293T cells showed that Tyr-713 and Tyr-811 are also autophosphorylated in vivo. Mutagenesis of Tyr-713 reduced both autophosphorylation of Tyr-811 and transphosphorylation of Bcr, a recently identified Fes substrate, supporting a major regulatory role for Tyr-713. Wild-type Fes transphosphorylated a kinase-inactive Fes mutant on Tyr-713 and Tyr-811, suggesting that Fes autophosphorylation occurs via an intermolecular mechanism analogous to receptor tyrosine kinases.
Responses of three bottomland species with different flood tolerance capabilities to various flooding regimes

Seedlings of baldcypress (Taxodium distichum), nuttall oak (Quercus nuttalli), and cherrybark oak (Quercus falcata var.pagodaefolia) were subjected to four flooding treatments: control, continuously flooded, intermittently flooded, and partially flooded for 70 days in a greenhouse. The treatments imposed various durations and intensities of soil redox potential (Eh) conditions representing a range encountered by plants in their habitats. Morphological changes and gas exchange responses to the treatments differed among the study species. Rapid development of adventitious root and hypertrophied lenticels were observed in baldcypress and nuttall oak under all flooded treatments. Cherrybark oak had the highest percentage reduction in net photosynthesis ranging from 65–87%, whereas reductions in nuttall oak ranged between 35–68% and in baldcypress between 6–21% in response to various treatments. Recovery of gas exchange was noted in baldcypress but no significant recovery was found in oaks. The recovery in baldcypress contributed to the continued growth and biomass accumulation under various treatments. Little evidence of consistent changes in biomass allocation patterns in response to the treatments was found in baldcypress but total biomass decreased significantly under the continuously flooded treatment. In oaks, total biomass decreased significantly in all flooded treatments. The present findings demonstrated that physiological functions are adversely affected by low soil Eh conditions and the extent of such effects are dependent on the intensity and duration of soil reduction as well as the species' capability to respond to such conditions rapidly. Management plans concerned with regeneration of bottomland forested ecosystems should consider the species flood response capabilities at seedling stages as well as the timing, durations, and intensities of soil reduction at the specific site.
Fathers’ Role Model Perceptions Themes and Linkages with Involvement

Qualitative interview data are used to explore fathers’( N = 24) perceptions of their own fathers and others as influential parental role models and associations between fathers’ role model perceptions and their involvement with their own children. In fathers’ descriptions of their parental role models, three themes emerged: types of models that fathers identified as role models for them as parents, affective evaluations the fathers ascribed to the models, and content that the fathers perceived learning from the models. Highly involved fathers were more likely to cite peer parents than to specifically cite their own fathers as influential role models for them and infrequently cited their spouses as models. Low-involvement fathers more often attributed positive affective evaluations to their models than did highly involved fathers.
Maternal Characteristics and Inadequate Prenatal Care

This study examined the effects of traditional risk factors on receipt of inadequate prenatal care when controlling for interactions of multiple factors. Birth certificate data on 11,936 births were obtained from a state birth cohort file. A logistic regression model indicated significant interactions between maternal ethnicity (black vs white), marital status, and education in the prediction of inadequate prenatal care. Examining only main effects and ignoring interactions can produce oversimplified conclusions about individual risk factors.
Somatic hypermutation of VκJκ rearrangements: targeting of RGYW motifs on both DNA strands and preferential selection of mutated codons within RGYW motifs

Productive and nonproductive VkappaJkappa gene rearrangements from individual peripheral blood B cells were analyzed for the pattern and distribution of mutations. The eight RGYW motifs and their inverse repeats, WRCY, were present in germ-line Vkappa genes significantly more often than anticipated by random chance (1.6-fold and 1.4-fold, respectively) and were also mutated in nonproductive rearrangements significantly more often than expected, with a frequency 1.96 fold greater than that of non-RGYW / WRCY motifs. As a result, 50 % of all mutations in nonproductive VkappaJkappa rearrangements occurred in RGYW / WRCY motifs. Each RGYW tetramer and its corresponding WRCY contained mutations at comparable frequencies. Furthermore, mutations of G and C were significantly more frequent in RGYW / WRCY but not in other tetranucleotides. Finally, mutations in codons contained within RGYW / WRCY were significantly more frequent in complementarity-determining regions but not framework regions of productive compared to nonproductive rearrangements and were increased by a factor that was significantly greater than for mutations in other motifs. These results indicate that the mutational machinery targets the overrepresented RGYW motifs in Vkappa genes on both DNA strands and that the resulting replacement mutations are preferentially selected into the productive repertoire.
Waveform analytics-based improvements in situational awareness, feeder visibility, and operational efficiency

The proliferation of “smart” devices on distribution feeders in the past decade has resulted in a deluge of data. Most utilities recognize that recorded waveforms and other data contain information that could enable them to operate more effectively. In practice, however, most utilities find themselves confronted with an intimidating amount of, without tools or expertise to differentiate important data from pedestrian. Typically, data analysis is performed manually, off-line, in response to specific perceived problems. Even if the utility has the requisite expertise and the time necessary to identify and interpret the relevant data, post hoc analysis does not generally provide real-time system visibility or situational awareness that would enable operational improvements. For multiple years, supported by EPRI and EPRI-member utility companies, Texas A&M researchers have used sensitive, high-fidelity waveform recorders to collect data from scores of feeders, using technology readily achievable with modern electronics. This has created the most comprehensive extant database of waveforms related to incipient failures and feeder events. Based on that database and experience, they developed sophisticated waveform analytics and reporting methods. Dubbed distribution fault anticipation (DFA) technology, the system acquires high-fidelity waveforms from conventional CTs and PTs and then uses automated processes to apply analytics to those waveforms and thus report events and conditions. This provides personnel with real-time visibility of feeder events and conditions, including incipient failures. This newfound visibility, or awareness, enables improved reliability, improved operational efficiency, and true condition-based maintenance.
Photoinduced anti-markovnikov addition of methanol to alkylindenes

Abstract Irradiation of acidic methanol solutions of several alkylindenes leads to anti-Markovnikov addition of the solvent to the double bond with previously reported photoisomerizations virtually eliminated.
Bond-graphs + genetic programming: analysis of an automatically synthesized rotary mechanical system

Initial results of an experiment devised to combine Bond-Graph modeling and simulation with genetic programming for automated design of a simple mechatronic system are reported in [1]. Two target eigen values are specified on complex plane and a Bond-Graph model is evolved through automated design scheme outlined in [1]. As a further development this research paper presents physical design realization based on the evolved Bond-Graph model. The physical design realization yields a second order open loop system. It is analyzed from a control systems stand point to determine system's dynamic characteristics. The dynamic analysis shows that damping ratio is 0.591 so we observe underdamped transient response typical of a system with complex conjugate poles.
A Raman spectroscopic study of the polyimide/Ag(110) interface

Abstract We have investigated the bonding of the monomers pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) and oxydianiline (ODA) and their subsequent polymerization to form polyimide on Ag(110) in ultrahigh vacuum. Unenhanced surface Raman spectroscopy was used to identify adsorbed species and to follow the polymerization reaction. ODA was unreactive on the cold (140 K) surface; spectral features were identical to those in the condensed multilayer indicating that the monolayer is physisorbed. PMDA, on the other hand, adsorbed dissociatively, the evidence being consistent with a bidentate surface carboxylate mode of bonding. Finally, heating a 30 A film of codosed monomers to 473 K resulted in the formation of a polyimide film as shown by characteristic features in the carbonyl stretching region of the Raman spectrum.
COSMIC GPS Radio Occultation Temperature Profiles in Clouds

Abstract Thermodynamic states in clouds are closely related to physical processes such as phase changes of water and longwave and shortwave radiation. Global Positioning System (GPS) radio occultation (RO) data are not affected by clouds and have high vertical resolution, making them ideally suited to cloud profiling on a global basis. By comparing the Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC) RO refractivity data with those of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction–National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP–NCAR) reanalysis and ECMWF analysis for soundings in clouds and clear air separately, a systematic bias of opposite sign was found between large-scale global analyses and the GPS RO observations under cloudy and clear-sky conditions. As a modification to the standard GPS RO wet temperature retrieval that does not distinguish between cloudy- and clear-sky conditions, a new cloudy retrieval algorithm is proposed to incorporate the knowledge that in-c...
60 GHz low-noise high-electron-mobility transistors

The noise performance of 0.25 ?m-gate-length high-electron-mobility transistors at frequencies up to 62 GHz is reported. A room-temperature extrinsic transconductance gm of 480 mS/mm and a maximum frequency of oscillation fmax of 135 GHz are obtained for these transistors. At 30 and 40 GHz the devices exhibit minimum noise figures of 1.5 and 1.8 dB with associated gains of 10.0 and 7.5 dB, respectively. A minimum noise figure as low as 2.7 dB with an associated gain of 3.8 dB has also been measured at 62 GHz. This is the best noise performance ever reported for HEMTs at millimetre-wave frequencies. The results clearly demonstrate the potential of short-gate-length high-electron-mobility transistors for very low-noise applications for frequencies at least up to V-band.
Photon-counting technique for rapid fluorescence-decay measurement.

We report on a novel laser-induced fluorescence triple-integration method (LIFTIME) that is capable of making rapid, continuous fluorescence lifetime measurements by a unique photon-counting technique. The LIFTIME has been convolved with picosecond time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence, which employs a high-repetition-rate mode-locked laser, permitting the eventual monitoring of instantaneous species concentrations in turbulent flames. We verify the technique by application of the LIFTIME to two known fluorescence media, diphenyloxazole (PPO) and quinine sulfate monohydrate (QSM). PPO has a fluorescence lifetime of 1.28 ns, whereas QSM has a fluorescence lifetime that can be varied from 1.0 to 3.0 ns. From these liquid samples we demonstrate that fluorescence lifetime can currently be monitored at a sampling rate of up to 500 Hz with less than 10% uncertainty (1 sigma) .
Extension corner avulsion fracture of the cervical spine

The purpose of this study was to determine the radiographic findings and clinical significance of the extension corner avulsion fracture (ECAF) of the cervical spine and to defined the role of the plain radiography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the evaluation of this injury in order to establish a radiographic protocol. Imaging studies of the cervical spine (including plain radiographs, CT scans, and MRI examinations) and medical records of 31 patients from two major trauma centers were reviewed retrospectively. Twentyeight (90%) of 33 ECAFs occurred at C2. Two patients (7%) had ECAF at more than one level. Ten patients (32%) had additional cervical injuries. Traumatic spondylolisthesis of C2 was the most common associated cervical injury (10%). Seven patients (23%) had associated thoracolumbar injuries. Although all available sagittal reformations demonstrated characteristic fracture, axial CT images failed to demonstrate the fracture in three cases, but, in one patient, they revealed other clinically insignificant fractures not appreciated on plain radiographs. MRI was noncontributory in cases of isolated ECAF. Five patients (16%) had neurologic deficits, with three localized to the cervical region. ECAF occurs most commonly at C2, typically does not result in direct neurologic injury, and is characterized radiographically by a triangular-shaped anteroinferior corner fracture fragment with associated soft tissue swelling. In most cases, ECAF can be adequately assessed by plain radiography. CT and MRI should be reserved for patients with complex fracture patterns or neurologic symptoms.
Adrenal Beta-Arrestin 1 Inhibition In Vivo Attenuates Post-Myocardial Infarction Progression to Heart Failure and Adverse Remodeling Via Reduction of Circulating Aldosterone Levels

Objectives We investigated whether adrenal beta-arrestin 1 (βarr1)-mediated aldosterone production plays any role in post-myocardial infarction (MI) heart failure (HF) progression. Background Heart failure represents 1 of the most significant health problems worldwide, and new and innovative treatments are needed. Aldosterone contributes significantly to HF progression after MI by accelerating adverse cardiac remodeling and ventricular dysfunction. It is produced by the adrenal cortex after angiotensin II activation of angiotensin II type 1 receptors (AT 1 Rs), G protein-coupled receptors that also signal independently of G proteins. The G protein-independent signaling is mediated by βarr1 and βarr2. We recently reported that adrenal βarr1 promotes AT 1 R-dependent aldosterone production leading to elevated circulating aldosterone levels in vivo. Methods Adrenal-targeted, adenoviral-mediated gene delivery in vivo in 2-week post-MI rats, a time point around which circulating aldosterone significantly increases to accelerate HF progression, was performed to either increase the expression of adrenal βarr1 or inhibit its function via expression of a βarr1 C-terminal-derived peptide fragment. Results We found that adrenal βarr1 overexpression promotes aldosterone elevation after MI, resulting in accelerated cardiac adverse remodeling and deterioration of ventricular function. Importantly, these detrimental effects of aldosterone are prevented when adrenal βarr1 is inhibited in vivo, which markedly decreases circulating aldosterone after MI. Finally, the prototypic AT 1 R antagonist losartan seems unable to lower this adrenal βarr1-driven aldosterone elevation. Conclusions Adrenal βarr1 inhibition, either directly or with AT 1 R “biased” antagonists that prevent receptor-βarr1 coupling, might be of therapeutic value for curbing HF-exacerbating hyperaldosteronism.
New Routing and Preemption Algorithms for Circuit-Switched Mixed-Media Networks

New routing and preemption algorithms were developed for circuit-switched networks such as the Defense Switched Network that include both broadcast satellite and point-to-point transmission media. Three classes of routing procedures were evaluated: (1) mixed-media routing with fixed routing tables and call processing rules that included crankback and remote earth-station querying, (2) adaptive mixed-media routing which adapted routing tables after network damage, and (3) precedence flooding which routed high-precedence calls using flooding techniques. A new preemption technique called guided preemption was also evaluated. When guided preemption is used, lower precedence calls to preempt are selected after examining the paths of all calls previously routed through a switch. Call paths are added to the call-setup-success common-channel-signalling (CCS) packet at the call destination and then read in and stored within each switch in the call path as this message travels back to the call source. Tools developed to evaluate algorithms included a steady-state network analysis program, a call-by-call simulator, and the EISN testbed network described in a companion paper by H.M. Heggestad. Analytic results with the simulator and the steady-state analysis program indicated that the new routing algorithms provided reduced point-to-point blocking probabilities after damage without adding extra trunking. Best performance was obtained with adaptive mixed-media routing and precedence flooding techniques. Guided preemption preempted fewer low-precedence calls than blind preemption as used in AUTOVON to complete the same number of high-precedence calls.
Optimization of complex structures to satisfy flutter requirements

Aircraft structural parameters optimization satisfying flutter velocity constraint and minimum mass, applying to box beam design
Combustion synthesis of fullerenes and fullerenic nanostructures

Abstract Samples of condensable material collected from low-pressure premixed and diffusion benzene/oxygen/argon flames were analyzed chemically to determine fullerene yield and by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy to characterize the fullerenic material on and within the soot particles. Results show that fullerene formation is sensitive to changes in operating conditions, such as fuel/oxygen ratio, chamber pressure, and inert gas dilution, and that the formation of amorphous and fullerenic carbon occurs early in the flame, with the structures becoming more curved with greater residence time. All flames exhibit a fullerene maximum with the premixed flame showing two distinct regions of formation. Additionally, the fullerene maximum in the diffusion flames is always just above the stoichiometric flame surface and a maximum is observed with increasing dilution due to competing dilution effects. Image analysis data show that the curvatures and diameters of the structures are consistent with the chemical analysis and that nanostructures, found at greater residence times than fullerenes, are formed directly from curved structures in the soot. These data complement previous fullerene studies and shed light on several proposed mechanisms for fullerene formation in combustion.
Current concepts of ventricular activation in the normal heart, in left bundle branch block, and in left bundle branch block with myocardial infarction.

Abstract The current concepts of ventricular activation based upon recent studies in the normal heart have been reviewed. These concepts include the activation of the left and right septal surfaces, the septal mass, and the free right and left ventricular walls. The roles of the bundle branches and the Purkinje system are emphasized. The alterations in ventricular activation that occur as a result of complete left bundle branch block (LBBB) are summarized. The evidence for and against a physiologic “barrier” between the right and left septal masses is presented. The vector representation of depolarization of the septum and free ventricular walls in the normal heart and in LBBB is briefly summarized. Some of the newer concepts of ventricular activation in LBBB and myocardial infarction are reviewed.
Relationship of Endogenous Pyrogen and Serum Augmenting Factor To Endotoxin Tolerance.

SummaryPyrogen tolerance was produced by repeated daily injections of endotoxin. As tolerance developed, the ability of the serum to augment the pyrogenic effect of endotoxin and production of endogenous pyrogen were diminished. When tolerance was produced by passive transfer, these 2 parameters were similarly affected. RES blockade did not reverse tolerance nor did it restore augmenting factor or markedly increase the animal's ability to elaborate endogenous pyrogen following injection with endotoxin. These observations suggest that serum inhibitors may mediate tolerance by inactivating the ability of serum to augment endotoxin.