cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evidence from recombinant bunyavirus studies that the M RNA gene products elicit neutralizing antibodies

Abstract Homologous virus genetic recombination has been demonstrated for snowshoe hare (SSH), La Crosse (LAC), Tahyna (TAH), Lumbo (LUM), and Trivittatus (TVT) viruses, members of the California (CAL) serogroup of bunyaviruses, as well as for Guaroa (GRO) virus, a member of the Bunyamwera serogroup. No heterologous virus genetic recombination has been obtained between GRO and LAC, SSH, TAH, or TVT viruses, although recombination has been demonstrated between TAH and LAC, SSH, or TVT viruses, as well as between LAC and TVT or SSH viruses. Not all the dual temperature sensitive ( ts ) mutant virus coinfections (e.g., the reciprocal crosses to those that gave recombinants), yielded the expected recombinant viruses. This paradox is discussed in relation to the conditions necessary to produce recombinant viruses. Eight new recombinant viruses (TAH/LAC/TAH, TAH/LAC/LAC, LAC/TAH/LAC, LAC/TAH/TAH, TVT/LAC/TVT, TVT/TAH/TVT, SSH/TAH/TAH, and SSH/TAH/SSH) have been characterized. Plaque reduction neutralization tests have been performed with seven of these eight viruses, and four recombinant bunyaviruses obtained previously (i.e. SSH/LAC/LAC, SSH/LAC/SSH, SSH/SSH/LAC, and LAC/LAC/SSH). The results obtained using antisera raised against prototype TAH, TVT, SSH, or LAC viruses indicate that one or both of the bunyavirus M RNA gene products (i.e., their glycoproteins G1 and G2) specify the antigenic determinants recognized in the neutralization test.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis--a new role for old drugs.

A screening assay of FDA-approved drugs identified ceftriaxone and other β-lactam antibiotics as potential therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurologic disorders. The results of experiments in a mouse model of ALS provide support for this hypothesis and suggest that ceftriaxone could also be used to delay the onset of ALS.
Comparative Efficacy of White Mustard (Sinapis alba L.) and Soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) Seed Meals as Bioherbicides in Organic Broccoli (Brassica oleracea Var. Botrytis) and Spinach (Spinacea oleracea) Production

White mustard and soybean seed meals were compared for weed control and yield of organically grown broccoli and spinach. The meals were incorporated into the soil 2 weeks before crop planting at two rates (1.24 and 4.48 t ha−1). Weed densities and hand-weeding time were recorded twice during the growing seasons and weed biomass was measured at crop harvest. Compared to the 1.24 t ha−1 soybean treatment, weed densities were 52 to 95% and 41 to 45% less at 3 and 6 weeks after planting, respectively, in both crops with the 4.48 t ha−1 white mustard seed meal treatment. Time required for hand weeding at these times was also reduced by up to 82% and 48%, respectively. Broccoli yield was similar in all the treatments, but spinach yield was greatest in the 4.48 t ha−1 treatments for both seed meals. Petiole nitrate and nutrient concentrations in both crops were generally similar in all the treatments.
Gender differences in perceptions for women's participation in unwanted sexual intercourse

This article examines the reasons that women and men give in explaining why women willingly agree to sexual intimacy when they would rather not be intimate at that time. Data collected from a sample of students on a southern campus included a set of scales which measured the beliefs about why women consent to unwanted sexual intercourse held by men and women. The findings indicated that most sexual intercourse was consensual and mutually desired. Perceived reasons for consent to unwanted sex by women varied for men and women, as did the ranking of relative importance of the reasons. Some support was found for the contention that compliance might be a function of gender socialization.
Regulation of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate metabolism in cultured neuroblastoma cells.

MOUSE neuroblastoma C-1300 has a large number of electrical, biochemical and morphological properties characteristic of differentiated neurones1–9. The cell line is thus particularly useful as a model in which neuronal functions can be studied in a clonal propagating system in vitro.
Delayed-late activation of a myeloid defensin minimal promoter by retinoids and inflammatory mediators.

Abstract α- Defensin-1 gene expression in promyelocytic HL-60 cells is (‘delayed-late’ ≥1–2 days) activated by retinoic acid (RA), lipopolysaccharide, tumor necrosis factor-α and elevated levels of cAMP. Using stably integrated reporter constructs, we show that this activation is directed through a proximal and distal element within a minimal (−83/+82) def1 promoter, and is mediated by phosphorylation of the associated factors, PU.1 and D1BP, in an inducer-dependent manner. Whereas binding of PU.1 to the proximal element confers cell specificity and relays the effects of most inducers, the selectively enhancing capacity of the distal element for RA- and cAMP-dependent activation is uniquely correlated with D1BP-binding. We propose that D1BP and PU.1 are the end-points of separate pathways.
LACK OF INFLUENCE OF SPERMINE OR DIET ON CALF SPERMINE OXIDASE FORMATION.

Abstract Studies were conducted to ascertain the changes in blood plasma spermine oxidase activity in the young dairy calf as the animal developed. Results show that there is a steady increase in plasma spermine oxidase activity up until 40-60 days of age with no further increase. Although the increase in the activity of this enzyme occurs when the rumen is developing fastest, there appears to be no direct relationship between the two phenomena. Blaschko and Bonney (2) reached a similar conclusion from results obtained with developing kids.
Synaptic responses of neurons in heterotopic gray matter in an animal model of cortical dysgenesis

Neuronal heterotopia is a malformation of cortical development that is closely associated with epilepsy in humans. Despite emerging interest in the structure and function of the heterotopic cortex, little is known about the membrane properties and synaptic connections of these displaced neurons. We used whole-cell patch-clamp and extracellular field potential recordings from heterotopic neurons in slices from young adult rats with experimentally induced cortical dysgenesis to determine if local synaptic connections were present in nodular heterotopia. Complex synaptic responses were observed after electrical stimulation of adjacent white matter. The results suggest that neurons in nodular heterotopic gray matter can form local excitatory and inhibitory synaptic connections and may participate in epileptiform events.
The solid phase synthesis of trisubstituted 1,4-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]nonan-2-one scaffolds: On bead monitoring of heterocycle forming reactions using 15N NMR

Abstract Several representative 3,4,8-trisubstituted 1,4-diazabicyclo[3.4.0]nonan-2-ones have been prepared employing solid phase methodologies. Elaboration of a 4-hydroxyproline derivative with an 15 N-amino acid derivative allowed convenient monitoring of the reaction sequence on solid support by gel-phase 15 N NMR. An intramolecular Mitsunobu cyclization provided the desired heterocycle, which could be further functionalized at the 4-position. This synthetic method is facile, general, and suitable for the construction of large libraries of compounds for biological assays.
Benefits of diversity

Discoveries in astronomy — or, in fact, any branch of science — can only happen when people are open-minded and willing to take risks.
A Novel Binding Site in Collagen Type III for Integrins α1β1 and α2β1

Previously identified high affinity integrin-binding motifs in collagens, GFOGER and GLOGER, are not present in type III collagen. Here, we first characterized the binding of recombinant I domains from integrins α1 and α2 (α1I and α2I) to fibrillar collagen types I-III and showed that each I domain bound to the three types of collagens with similar affinities. Using rotary shadowing followed by electron microscopy, we identified a high affinity binding region in human type III collagen recognized by α1I and α2I. Examination of the region revealed the presence of two sequences that contain the critical GER motif, GROGER and GAOGER. Collagen-like peptides containing these two motifs were synthesized, and their triple helical nature was confirmed by circular dichroism spectroscopy. Experiments show that the GROGER-containing peptide was able to bind both α1I and α2I with high affinity and effectively inhibit the binding of α1I and α2I to type III and I collagens, whereas the GAOGER-containing peptide was considerably less effective. Furthermore, the GROGER-containing peptide supported adhesion of human lung fibroblast cells when coated on a culture dish. Thus, we have identified a novel high affinity binding sequence for the collagen-binding integrin I domains.
Hippelates collusor (Diptera: Chloropidae) as a host for four species of parasitic Hymenoptera in southern California.

During 1961–62 four hymenopterous parasites of the eye gnat, Hippelates collusor (Townsend), were discovered in the semiarid agricultural regions of southern California. These parasites were found by field-exposing host Hippelates pupae for several days between discs of nylon bolting cloth for predator protection. Three of the parasites, Phaenopria occidentalis Fouts, Spalangia drosophilae Ashmead, and Eupteromalus nidulans Thomson, were successfully cultured in the laboratory and also studied in field releases. The fourth, Trichopria n. sp., died before propagation could be attempted. In field releases of parasites S. drosophilae was the most efficient species in seeking Hippelates pupae in the environments studied.
Robust Multirate Eigenstructure Assignment with Flight Control Application

A recent result for multirate state feedback with fast and slow feedback loops is extended to output feedback. This multirate feedback structure is combined with eigenstructure assignment to design a lateral stability augmentation system operating at 50 Hz and a bank angle autopilot operating at 10 Hz for the linearized dynamics of the L1011 aircraft. A new sufficient condition for robust stability of the multirate system in the presence of linear time-invariant continuous-time structured state-space uncertainty is proposed. A multiobjective optimization is used with both eigenstructure assignment and robustness objectives. A hybrid simulation of the continuous aircraft dynamics demonstrates that the robust multirate eigenstructure assignment flight control system exhibits excellent decoupling between the yaw and roll dynamics.
THE PRE-MAIN-SEQUENCE POPULATION OF L988

L988 is a large (~05 ? 07) dark cloud complex at about 600 pc that contains several bright pre-main-sequence objects (such as V1331 Cyg and LkH? 321), but this paper deals in detail only with a small region on its eastern edge, near the HAeBe star LkH? 324. That star and its distant companion LkH? 324SE lie at the apex of a V-shaped area apparently excavated from the edge of L988, and are the brightest members of a small cluster containing about 50 H?-emission stars. A median age of about 0.6 Myr (with large dispersion) is inferred from its color-magnitude diagram, constructed from VRI photometry to V = 22. Keck HIRES spectra show that LkH? 324SE is probably also an HAeBe. Its image is nonstellar, and within 3'' to the northwest are three condensations having complex [S II] and [O I] profiles and radial velocities up to -200 km s-1. They probably originate in an outflow from LkH? 324SE. A bright Ap star with strong Si II lines is embedded in the heavy obscuration 8' to the west. It illuminates a small reflection nebulosity, has several faint H? emitters nearby, and shares the radial velocity of L988, so clearly it was formed in that cloud. It demonstrates again that such chemical peculiarities can be established very early in young stars of moderate mass.
The system CaOAl2O3Fe2O3 with added fluoride flux

Abstract Effects of fluoride fluxes, especially CaSiF 6 ·2H 2 O upon phase equilibria in the system CaOAl 2 O 3 Fe 2 O 3 are described, presenting liquidus data, new phase field boundaries and invariant points and solid solution areas. The primary phase field for C 12−x A 7 ·CaF 2 is increased substantially in size, and liquidus or invariant temperatures are depressed by amounts ranging from 20 to 80°C.
AUTOPOLYPLOIDY IN TOLMIEA MENZIESII (SAXIFRAGACEAE): GENETIC INSIGHTS FROM ENZYME ELECTROPHORESIS'

Despite over 30 years of speculation, the genetic consequences of autopolyploid speciation are largely unknown. Evidence from several sources indicates that Tolmiea menziesii is one of the best documented examples of autopolyploidy in natural populations. As such, Tolmiea can serve as a model for providing insights into autopolyploid speciation. Data from enzyme electrophoresis indicate that tetrasomic inheritance operates in tetraploid Tolmiea. These data indicate that a chromosome can pair with any of its three homologous chromosomes. For all polymorphic loci, heterozygosity is substantially higher in tetraploid Tolmiea compared to the diploid cytotype. Furthermore, individual tetraploid plants can maintain as many as three or four alleles at a single locus. Enzyme multiplicity was also observed in tetraploid Tolmiea. For the dimeric enzyme PGI, individual tetraploid plants were identified at Pgi-2 that maintained three alleles, resulting in the production of six different enzymes. Although these genetic consequences of autopolyploidy had been predicted, they have not been previously demonstrated for an autotetraploid in nature. The increased heterozygosity and enzyme multiplicity observed may afford an autopolyploid greater genetic and biochemical versatility relative to its diploid progenitor. These findings suggest that tetrasomic inheritance provides a genetic avenue through which autopolyploid speciation can successfully occur.
SU-FF-I-02: Entrance Exposures During On-Board KV Imaging

Purpose: To estimate entrance exposure levels during on‐board kV imaging (Version 1.2) on Trilogy (Varian Medical Systems). Methods and Materials: The patient was simulated by phantom using 40 cm and 20 cm of 40 × 40cm2 water equivalent slabs. Exposure measurements were acquired for 80 and 90 cm source‐to‐surface distances using a 150 cc Fluke ionization chamber (96020C) and an Innovision 3050A dosimeter. The measurements were performed for various preset techniques that are commonly used in the clinic such as AP pelvis, Lat Pelvis, AP head, AP thorax, and AP extremity. Exposure rate levels were also measured during pulsed fluoroscopy with the automatic background control option activated. For comparison purposes, the exposure levels on a conventional simulator were also measured. Results: The entrance exposure levels on the on‐board imager vary between 0.13 mSv for an extremity technique to 4.9 mSv for a lateral pelvis technique and were comparable to the conventional simulator measurements. On‐board imaging pulsed fluoroscopy exposure levels were higher than those measured using the continuous fluoroscopy technique on the conventional simulator. Conclusions: Though the exposure and exposure rates are relatively low and inconsequential to the overall course of prescribed therapy, it is important to document exposures received. This documentation is essential for imaging protocols that may exceed normal imaging and localization exposure levels.
Skeletal muscle profiles in elite springboard and platform divers

This investigation determined the vastus lateralis muscle fiber composition, as well as leg power and strength, in a group of 10 world class divers. Male divers had a low mean percentage of Type I fibers (36%), which was consistent with the functional demands of their sport, whereas females had a mean value of 61%. The ratio of Type I/Type II cross-sectional fiber area was 0.95 in females and 0.82 in males. Angle-specific torque-velocity relationships, derived from Cybex testing of the knee extensors, revealed high torque values in males but not in females. The observed male-female differences have no clear explanation, unless muscle fiber composition has greater importance in the more difficult dives executed by men.
Increased complications after appendectomy in patients with cerebral palsy: are special needs patients at risk for disparities in outcomes?

Background Cerebral palsy (CP) is a nonprogressive neurologic disorder. Anecdotal evidence suggests there are worse outcomes in this population after common operative procedures like appendectomy. This study aims to classify whether there are relevant disparities in postoperative outcomes in CP versus non-CP patients after open or laparoscopic appendectomy. Methods Hospital discharge data from the 2003–2009 weighted Nationwide Inpatient Sample were used. Unadjusted and adjusted multiple logistic regression were used to assess postoperative complications, as well as inpatient mortality, average duration of hospital stay, and cost. Results Approximately 1,250 patients with CP met the inclusion criteria. After adjusted analysis, CP patients displayed significantly greater odds of the following postoperative complications: Sepsis/organ failure, operation-related infection, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Patients with CP also had a greater cost and in-hospital stay after appendectomy. Conclusion Patients with CP have greater adjusted odds of complications after open or laparoscopic appendectomy. The mechanisms that led to these disparities need to be studied and may include difficulties in patient assessment and communication. Additional education of healthcare providers to improve recognition of symptoms and care for patients with disabilities may be more immediately helpful in decreasing disparities in outcomes.
Abstract 1555: TP53 oncomorphic mutations are associated with resistance to platinum- and taxol-based standard chemotherapy in advanced serous ovarian cancer patients

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Mutations in the tumor suppressor gene TP53 abrogate the tumor suppressive functions of the p53 protein, and some mutations endow the mutant protein with oncogenic activity. These specific mutations we term oncomorphic. Many studies have attempted to correlate p53 mutation status with patient outcomes; however the results have been controversial due to indiscriminate categorization of all TP53 mutations into one group. Using advanced ovarian cancer as a model, our objective was to determine the relationship of oncomorphic TP53 mutations with the development of chemoresistance in advanced serous ovarian cancer patients uniformly treated with platinum and taxol primary chemotherapy. Clinical, genetic, and protein expression data from 264 high-grade serous ovarian cancer patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data portal. Associations between mutation types, chemoresistance, and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated for patients harboring oncomorphic TP53 mutations, loss of function mutations, or unclassified mutations. Using a large and uniform patient population, we demonstrate the phenomenon of oncomorphic mutations in ovarian cancer. Specifically, patients with oncomorphic TP53 mutations showed significantly worse PFS when compared with patients with unclassified TP53 mutations (Log-rank, p < 0.05). Patients with oncomorphic TP53 mutations displayed higher rates of platinum resistance (X2, p = 0.0024) and an almost 60% higher chance of recurrence (HR=1.59, 95% confidence intervals 1.09, 2.33, p = 0.016). Furthermore, tumors containing oncomorphic TP53 mutations displayed a unique protein expression profile distinct from tumors with LOF or unclassified mutations. Taken together, these data reveal that particular oncomorphic TP53 mutations are highly associated with worse patient outcomes. Importantly, not all TP53 mutations are equal, and future studies should segregate mutations based on functional consequence. These data may have important implications for the future treatment of patients based on which TP53 mutation is present. Citation Format: Pavla Brachova, Donghai Dai, Mathew Carlson, Michael Goodheart, Kristina Thiel, Eric Devor, Kimberly Leslie. TP53 oncomorphic mutations are associated with resistance to platinum- and taxol-based standard chemotherapy in advanced serous ovarian cancer patients. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 1555. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-1555
Evaluation of blended cement, mortar and concrete made from type III cement and kiln dust

A study was conducted to determine the effects of using kiln dust (a pozzolonic waste by-product of cement manufacture) as a cost reducing additive in blended cements. Cement quality, properties of mortar and properties of fresh and hardened concrete were investigated in the laboratory. Shrinkage, creep and durability were also examined. The test results show that replacing 5 percent of cement by weight with kiln dust produces a mix exhibiting slightly greater shrinkage and creep and greater setting time than plain concrete but does not adversely affect other properties of mortar or concrete.
Shopping for Direct-to-Consumer Screening: Buyers and Clinicians Beware.

How often do clinicians help patients shop for screening tests? Probably rarely, if at all, but that will have to change if current corporate ventures into direct-to-consumer (DTC) medical screening continue.
One-dimensional plate-launch techniques and associated diagnostics

A high-power, high-energy laser is used to accelerate miniature metal plates (3 mm diameter X 50 micron thick, typ.) to high velocities of perform 1D impacts. Several plate conditions are critical to their performance. The plates must be flat and intact, and traveling at a known velocity and acceleration profile. Because the plates are small only optical diagnostic techniques can be used without perturbing the plate are small only optical diagnostic techniques can be used without perturbing the plate performance. We use pulsed laser stereo-photography to determine plate integrity and flatness, and velocity interferometry (VISAR) to evaluate plate acceleration and terminal velocity. Laser-launched plates can accelerate to over 109 m2/s2 and reach terminal velocities over 5 km/s. The high accelerations require temporal resolution of < 0.200-ns. The temporal resolution is accomplished by transferring the VISAR optical signals by optical fiber to an electronic streak camera for recording. Near 1D plate impacts are accomplished by converting the spatial Gaussian laser beam to a Tophat spatial profile. The pulsed laser stereo-photography system consists of a 10X stereo camera and a 5-ns pulsed doubled Nd:YAG laser for the light source. By incorporating these different optical techniques a complete understanding of the dynamic performance of miniature plates in flight is accomplished.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Quantum dynamics of molecular motions based on a functional method.

A time-dependent functional formalism of molecular positions is developed in order to study non- equilibrium problems. It is based on the Liouvillean quantum field dynamics and is different from the density-functional framework. It provides a direct self-consistent approach to molecular dynamics of a system which is initially in thermodynamic equilibrium and is subjected to time-dependent external force.
Ex vivo pathomechanics of the canine Pond-Nuki model.

Background Transection of the canine cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is a well-established osteoarthritis (OA) model. The effect of CCL loss on contact pressure and joint alignment has not been quantified for stifle loading in standing. The purposes of the study were to measure femorotibial contact areas and stresses and joint alignment following transection of the CCL in an ex vivo model. We hypothesized that transection of the CCL would lead to abnormal kinematics, as well as alterations in contact mechanics of the femorotibial joint. Methodology/Principal Findings Eight canine hindlimbs were tested in a servo-hydraulic materials testing machine using a custom made femoral jig. Contact area and pressure measurements, and femorotibial rotations and translations were measured in the normal and the CCL–deficient stifle in both standing and deep flexion angles. We found that at standing angle, transection of the CCL caused cranial translation and internal rotation of the tibia with a concurrent caudal shift of the contact area, an increase in peak pressure and a decrease in contact area. These changes were not noted in deep flexion. At standing, loss of CCL caused a redistribution of the joint pressure, with the caudal region of the compartment being overloaded and the rest of the joint being underloaded. Conclusion In the Pond-Nuki model alterations in joint alignment are correlated with shifting of the contact points to infrequently loaded areas of the tibial plateau. The results of this study suggest that this cadaveric Pond-Nuki model simulates the biomechanical changes previously reported in the in-vivo Pond-Nuki model.
Currency bid-ask spread dynamics and the Asian crisis: Evidence across currency regimes

Abstract Using a sample of 21 emerging and developed country currencies, we evaluate the impact of the Asian crisis on bid-ask spreads. While the crisis had widespread and uniform volatility effects, the spread effects were not uniform across emerging and developed country currencies. For Asian emerging markets, spreads widened and spread volatility increased significantly during the crisis, while developed markets spreads narrowed and spread volatility decreased significantly. We investigate the impact of more flexible and less flexible exchange rate regimes on bid-ask spreads using panel data. In general, countries with tightly-managed regimes have significantly lower spreads than countries with more freely-floating regimes, while controlling for the influence of other factors such as volatility. Asian developing market spreads are higher than spreads of the other countries, again, after controlling for the influence of other factors.
Genetic linkage and imprinting effects on body mass index in children and young adults

Body mass index (BMI) is used as a measure of fatness. Here we performed a genome-wide scan for genes related to BMI, while allowing for the possible effects of imprinting. We applied a sib pair linkage analysis to a sample of primarily children and young adults by using the Haseman–Elston method, which we modified to model the separate effects of paternally and maternally derived genetic factors. After stratification of sib pairs according to age, a number of regions showing linkage with BMI were identified. Most linkage and imprinting effects were found in children 5–11 years of age. Strongest evidences for linkage in children were found on chromosome 20 at 20p11.2-pter near the marker D20S851 (LODTotal=4.08, P=0.000046) and near the marker D20S482 (LODTotal =3.55, P=0.00016), and Chromosome 16 at 16p13 near the marker ATA41E04 (LODTotal =3.12, P=0.00025), and those loci did not show significant evidence for imprinting. Six regions showing evidence of imprinting were 3p23–p24 (paternal expression), 4q31.1–q32 (maternal expression), 10p14–q11 (paternal expression), and 12p12-pter (paternal expression) in children, and 4q31-qter (paternal expression) and 8p (paternal expression) in adults.
Phase II study of alemtuzumab in chronic lymphoproliferative disorders

BACKGROUND Pilot studies showed that alemtuzumab is active in lymphoproliferative disorders. The authors conducted a Phase II trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of alemtuzumab in advanced or refractory chronic lymphoproliferative disorders. METHODS Seventy-eight patients were enrolled. The most common diagnoses were chronic lymphocytic leukemia (n = 42 patients) and T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (n = 18 patients). Before entering the study, the patients had received multiple therapies (median, three therapies) and the median time from diagnosis was 7 years. Alemtuzumab was given intravenously at doses of 3 mg, 10 mg, and 30 mg on 3 consecutive days, after which 30 mg was administered 3 times a week. Patients were treated for 4–12 weeks depending on disease response. All patients received prophylactic trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and valacyclovir. RESULTS The overall response rate was 35%, the complete response (CR) rate was 13%, and the partial response (PR) rate was 22%. The median duration of response was 18 months for patients achieving a CR and 7 months for patients achieving a PR. The median duration of survival was 25 months for patients who had a response and 12 months for the entire population. Normalization of the lymphocyte count was observed in 84% of patients and resolution of bone marrow involvement was observed in 49% of patients. The most common infusion-related adverse events were fever, rigors, skin rash, nausea, and dyspnea. These were most common during the first week of therapy. Hematologic toxicity was comprised of long-lasting lymphocytopenia and transient neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Thirty-six patients (46%) experienced at least one episode of fever or infection. CONCLUSIONS Alemtuzumab has a high response rate in patients with chronic lymphoproliferative disorders. Cancer 2003;98:773–8. © 2003 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.11551
The Port-Royal semantics of terms

It is tempting to say from the contemporary point of view that thePort-Royal Logic is full of confusions as well as insights. I have focused on several of these confusions and their relations, in particular the confusions between complex idea and proposition, between proposition and judgment, and especially between name and predicate. In particular I have tried to emphasize the instability of the Port-Royal semantics — the ways in which their theory of terms vacillates between earlier views and something closer to a modern analysis. It may, however, be more profitable to regard this work as incorporating several logics, and to view the confusions as the inevitable results of the dynamical tensions among these different views.
MODTRAN4: multiple scattering and bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) upgrades to MODTRAN

Radiance multiply scattered from clouds and thick aerosols is a significant component in the short wave IR through the visible region of the electro-optical (EO) spectrum. In MODTRAN, until very recently, multiple scattering predictions could not vary with the azimuth of the line-of-sight (LOS), although the single scattering component of the radiance did take the azimuthal variation into account. MODTRAN has now been upgraded to incorporate the dependence of multiple scattering (MS) on the azimuth of the LOS. This was accomplished by upgrading the interface between MODTRAN and DISORT, which is used as an MS subroutine in MODTRAN. Results from the upgraded MODTRAN are compared against measurements of radiance in a cloudy sky in the 1.5 - 2.5 micrometer region. Furthermore, taking advantage of DISORT, the upgraded version of MODTRAN can accommodate parameterized BRDFs (Bi-Directional Reflectance Distribution Functions) for surfaces. Some results, which demonstrate the new MODTRAN capabilities, are presented. Additionally, MS results from MODTRAN are compared to results obtained from a Monte-Carlo model.
Muscle force production and functional performance in spastic cerebral palsy : Relationship of Cocontraction

Abstract Damiano DL, Martellotta TL, Sullivan DJ, Granata KP, Abel MF. Muscle force production and functional performance in spastic cerebral palsy: relationship of cocontraction. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2000;81:895-900. Objective: To determine cocontraction's relation to strength and motor function in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). Design: Prospective evaluation with a convenience sample of 10 subjects. Setting: Pediatric rehabilitation center at a tertiary care hospital. Patients: Ten ambulatory children with spastic CP, mean age 5 to 14yrs. Main Outcome Measures: A single comprehensive assessment of hamstring and quadriceps muscle strength; gait analysis while monitoring electromyographic (EMG) activity in those muscles; administration of the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM); heart-rate monitoring during quiet rest versus gait to compute an energy expenditure index (EEI). Cocontraction ratios and magnitudes were determined for the gait and strength testing trials using the EMG data. Results: Cocontraction ratios during strength tests correlated directly with those during free gait. Cocontraction magnitude and total EMG magnitude had an inverse relationship to EEI; children with more muscle activity in the agonist and antagonist tended to be more energy efficient. Knee extensor muscle strength correlated positively with the GMFM and gait velocity. Neither cocontraction ratio nor magnitude during gait was related to strength. Conclusions: Children with CP used a similar muscle activation strategy across two different motor tasks. Strength and cocontraction were uniquely related to different aspects of motor function. Further research is needed to quantify more precisely cocontraction and force to EMG relations in this population. © 2000 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
New expressions for the solution of the matrix equation ATX + XA = H

The matrix equation AX+XA=H where A is symmetric appears in a variety of problems in continuum mechanics and other subjects. Several forms of the solution are available in the literature. We present new solutions which appear to be more concise. This is achieved by employing the adjoint matrix Â of A whose elements are the cofactors of A, and by considering the solutions to the symmetric and skew-symmetric parts of H separately. The derivation is no more complicated if we consider the more general matrix equation ATX+XA=H in which A need not be symmetric, and the superscript T denotes the transpose. The main results are shown in (2.6), (3.2), (4.14a,b) and (5.1a,b) for the three-dimensional case and in (6.6a,b) for the two-dimensional case.
Experimental investigations of the kinetics of a catalytic trapping reaction in confined spaces

We investigate the anomalous kinetics in one dimension of a diffusion limited catalytic trapping reaction, A + T → T, by measuring the oxidation of glucose. The reaction is carried out in a thin capillary tube, and the depletion of oxygen in the vicinity of the reaction front is monitored by the fluorescence of a Ru(II) dye. Theoretical results and simulations have predicted an asymptotic t 1/2 dependence for the rate coefficient. We observe a depedence on t 0.56 , with what appears to be an asymptotic behavior approaching t 1/2 .
The Interaction of C-17 Esters of Estradiol with the Estrogen Receptor*

Various C-17 alkyl esters of estradiol (E2) were tested as ligands for the estrogen receptor. The naturally occurring fatty acid esters, represented by E2-17-stearate, E2-17-palmitate, and E2-17-arachidonate, did not compete with [3H]E2 for receptor-binding sites. [3H]E2-17-stearate did not bind in a specific or saturable manner to uterine cytosol. On the other hand, the long-acting pharmacological esters of E2, E2-17-acetate, -propionate, -valerate, etc., were highly effective in competing for the binding of [3H]E2 to the uterine receptor. However, it was found that these short chain esters were hydrolyzed to E2 when incubated with uterine cytosol under the conditions used for the binding assay. Consequently, [3H]E2-17-acetate and [3H] E2-17-valerate were tested as ligands in an assay in which the hydrolytic activity was minimized by partially purifying the receptor with (NH4)2SO4 precipitation and by limiting the duration of the incubation. In this assay there was no specific binding of the C-17-valerate ester. There was a relatively small amount of specifically bound radioactivity in the incubation of the acetate ester, but upon high performance liquid chromatographic analysis, the specifically bound steroid was found to be E2 and not the ester. These results indicate that the C-17 esters of E2, from C2 to the long chain fatty acids, all of which are potent long-acting estrogens, exert their estrogenic effects only after hydrolysis to the free C18 steroid.
Biochemical Characterization of an ATPase Activity Associated with the Large Packaging Subunit gp17 from Bacteriophage T4

Abstract Double-stranded DNA-packaging in icosahedral bacteriophages is believed to be driven by a packaging “machine” constituted by the portal protein and the two packaging/terminase proteins assembled at the unique portal vertex of the empty prohead shell. Although ATP hydrolysis is evidently the principal driving force, which component of the packaging machinery functions as the translocating ATPase has not been elucidated. Evidence suggests that the large packaging subunit is a strong candidate for the translocating ATPase. We have constructed new phage T4 terminase recombinants under the control of phage T7 promoter and overexpressed the packaging/terminase proteins gp16 and gp17 in various configurations. The hexahistidine-tagged-packaging proteins were purified to near homogeneity by Ni2+-agarose chromatography and were shown to be highly active for packaging DNA in vitro. The large packaging subunit gp17 but not the small subunit gp16 exhibited an ATPase activity. Although gp16 lacked ATPase activity, it enhanced the gp17-associated ATPase activity by >50-fold. The gp16 enhancement was specific and was due to an increased catalytic rate for ATP hydrolysis. A phosphorylated gp17 was demonstrated under conditions of low catalytic rates but not under high catalytic rates in the presence of gp16. The data are consistent with the hypothesis that a weak ATPase is transformed into a translocating ATPase of high catalytic capacity after assembly of the packaging machine.
Ultraviolet Irradiation Induces Smad7 via Induction of Transcription Factor AP-1 in Human Skin Fibroblasts

Smad7 functions as an endogenous negative regulator of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/SMAD signaling. The TGF-β/SMAD pathway is a major regulator of collagen production in connective tissue. Reduced expression of SMAD7 has been reported in TGF-β-mediated fibrotic diseases, characterized by overproduction of collagen. Solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation reduces collagen production by fibroblasts in human skin in vivo. We have investigated regulation of Smad7 gene expression by UV irradiation in human skin fibroblasts. UV irradiation transiently increased SMAD7 mRNA and protein levels. Induction of SMAD7 mRNA and protein was maximal within 5 h and returned to initial basal levels 24 h post-UV irradiation. UV irradiation induced Smad7 promoter-reporter activity 3-fold. The Smad7 promoter contains functional enhancer sequences that bind transcription factors SMAD3 and activator protein-1 (AP-1). UV irradiation reduced protein binding to the Smad3 enhancer and increased binding to the AP-1 enhancer. Deletion of the AP-1 binding site in the Smad7 promoter completely abolished UV stimulation of SMAD7 transcription. Deletion of the Smad3 element had no effect on UV irradiation-induced promoter activity. UV irradiation increased mRNA and protein expression of the AP-1 family members, c-Jun and c-Fos, which bound to the AP-1 element in the Smad7 promoter. Furthermore, overexpression of dominant negative c-Jun substantially reduced UV irradiation induction of SMAD7 transcription. These data demonstrate that induction of Smad7 gene expression by UV irradiation is mediated via induction of the transcription factor AP-1 in human skin fibroblasts.
The Hybrid and Dualistic Identity of Full-Time Non-Tenure-Track Faculty

Colleges and universities rely on full-time non-tenure-track (FTNT) faculty to achieve their teaching, research, and service missions. These faculty are deemed both symptomatic of and partly respon...
Mechanistic studies of an unusual epoxide-forming elimination of a β-hydroxyalkyl rhodium porphyrin

A new and remarkably facile sp3-C–O bond forming reaction of β-hydroxyalkyl Rh porphyrins to form epoxides has been discovered and its mechanism investigated.
Congruences for Ramanujan’s f and ω functions via generalized Borcherds products

Bruinier and Ono recently developed the theory of generalized Borcherds products, which uses coefficients of certain Maass forms as exponents in infinite product expansions of meromorphic modular forms. Using this, one can use classical results on congruences of modular forms to obtain congruences for Maass forms. In this note we work out the example of Ramanujan’s mock theta functions f and ω in detail.
Human DNA polymerase β polymorphism, Arg137Gln, impairs its polymerase activity and interaction with PCNA and the cellular base excision repair capacity

DNA polymerase beta (Pol beta) is a key enzyme in DNA base excision repair, and an important factor for maintaining genome integrity and stability. More than 30% of human tumors characterized to date express DNA Pol beta variants, many of which result from a single nucleotide residue substitution. However, in most cases, their precise functional deficiency and relationship to cancer susceptibility are still unknown. In the current work, we show that a polymorphism encoding an arginine to glutamine substitution, R137Q, has lower polymerase activity. The substitution also affects the interaction between Pol beta and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). These defects impair the DNA repair capacity of Pol beta in reconstitution assays, as well as in cellular extracts. Expression of wild-type Pol beta in pol beta(-/-) mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells restored cellular resistance to DNA damaging reagents such as methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) and N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU), while expression of R137Q in pol beta(-/-) MEF cells failed to do so. These data indicate that polymorphisms in base excision repair genes may contribute to the onset and development of cancers.
Synthesis and characterization of a series of hydrophobic antitumor bis(carboxylato) (1, 2-diaminocyclohexane) platinum(ii) complexes

Abstract A series of hydrophobic platinum(II) complexes of the type (DACH)PtX2 (where DACH = various isomeric forms of 1,2-diaminocyclohexane and X = pentanoato, hexanoato, heptanoato, octanoato, nonanoato, decanoato, unidecanoato, laurato, tridecanoato, myristato, pentadecanoato, palmitato, heptadecanoato, or stearato) has been synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, infrared spectra and nuclear magnetic resonance (13C{1H} and 195Pt{1H}). The complexes have been prepared as potential antitumor agents for liposome entrapment.
ON CLOSURE PROPERTIES OF BOUNDED TWO-SIDED ERROR COMPLEXITY CLASSES

We show that if a complexity classC is closed downward under polynomial-time majority truth-table reductions (≤ mtt p ), then practically every other “polynomial” closure property it enjoys is inherited by the corresponding bounded two-sided error class BP[C]. For instance, the Arthur-Merlin game class AM [B1] enjoys practically every closure property of NP. Our main lemma shows that, for any relativizable classD which meets two fairly transparent technical conditions, we haveC BP[C] \( \subseteq \)BP[D C]. Among our applications, we simplify the proof by Toda [Tol], [To2] that the polynomial hierarchy PH is contained in BP[⊕P]. We also show that relative to a random oracleR, PH R is properly contained in ⊕P R .
Network-Based Analysis of Affected Biological Processes in Type 2 Diabetes Models

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a complex disorder associated with multiple genetic, epigenetic, developmental, and environmental factors. Animal models of type 2 diabetes differ based on diet, drug treatment, and gene knockouts, and yet all display the clinical hallmarks of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in peripheral tissue. The recent advances in gene-expression microarray technologies present an unprecedented opportunity to study type 2 diabetes mellitus at a genome-wide scale and across different models. To date, a key challenge has been to identify the biological processes or signaling pathways that play significant roles in the disorder. Here, using a network-based analysis methodology, we identified two sets of genes, associated with insulin signaling and a network of nuclear receptors, which are recurrent in a statistically significant number of diabetes and insulin resistance models and transcriptionally altered across diverse tissue types. We additionally identified a network of protein–protein interactions between members from the two gene sets that may facilitate signaling between them. Taken together, the results illustrate the benefits of integrating high-throughput microarray studies, together with protein–protein interaction networks, in elucidating the underlying biological processes associated with a complex disorder.
Experimental studies on repair of large osteochondral defects at a high weight bearing area of the knee joint: a tissue engineering study.

There is a vast clinical need for the development of an animal model to study the fundamentals of healing of injured or diseased diarthrodial joints (knee, hip, shoulder, wrist, etc). Current prosthetic replacements do not offer acceptable treatment for injuries and diseases of these joints in young active individuals. New clinical treatment modalities, based on sound biologic principles, are sought for the development of repair or healing tissues engineered to have similar biomechanical properties as normal articular cartilage. In this paper we present a brief review of this need, and propose a grafting procedure which may lead to a successful animal model for studies of long term repair of major osteochondral defects. This grafting procedure uses an autologous periosteum-bone graft or an autologous-synthetic bone replacement graft. We have applied these grafts for in vivo repair of large surgically created defects in the high weight bearing area of the distal femoral condyle of mature New Zealand white rabbits. Further, an interdisciplinary study, including histochemistry, biochemistry (composition and metabolic activities), and biomechanics (biphasic properties), was performed to assess the feasibility of our animal model to generate viable repair tissues. We found our grafting procedure produced, 8 weeks postoperatively, tissues which were very similar to those found in normal articular cartilage. However, our histological studies indicate incomplete bonding between the repair tissue and the adjacent cartilage, and lack of an appropriate superficial zone at the articular surface. These deficiencies may cause long term failure of the repair tissue. Further studies must be undertaken to enhance development of a strong bond and a collagen-rich surface zone. This may require the use of growth factors (e.g., transforming growth factors beta) capable of simulating extra collagen production, or the use of serum derived tissue glue for bonding. At present, we are pursuing these studies.
A stabilized assumed deformation gradient finite element formulation for strongly coupled poromechanical simulations at finite strain

SUMMARY An adaptively stabilized finite element scheme is proposed for a strongly coupled hydro-mechanical problem in fluid-infiltrating porous solids at finite strain. We first present the derivation of the poromechanics model via mixture theory in large deformation. By exploiting assumed deformation gradient techniques, we develop a numerical procedure capable of simultaneously curing the multiple-locking phenomena related to shear failure, incompressibility imposed by pore fluid, and/or incompressible solid skeleton and produce solutions that satisfy the inf-sup condition. The template-based generic programming and automatic differentiation (AD) techniques used to implement the stabilized model are also highlighted. Finally, numerical examples are given to show the versatility and efficiency of this model. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.