cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ongoing immunoglobulin class switch DNA recombination in lupus B cells: analysis of switch regulatory regions.

Inflammation and tissue damage in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are mediated by class-switched autoantibodies reactive with nucleic acids, nucleic acid-binding proteins, phospholipids and other selfantigens. While some healthy individuals produce IgM antibodies with specificities similar to those of lupus patients, immunoglobulin class switching to mature downstream isotypes appears to be required for the generation of pathogenic autoantibodies. To characterize the cellular and molecular basis of pathogenic autoantibody production in SLE, we studied the capacity of peripheral blood B cells of nao ¨ve phenotype from patients with SLE, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or healthy control subjects to spontaneously switch to IgG and IgA. In addition, we determined the DNA sequences of the upstream evolutionary conserved sequence (ECS)-Ig promoter regulatory regions that control germline IH-CH transcription and class switch DNA recombination (CSR) to IgG1, IgG2 and IgG4. IgM þ IgD þ B cells from patients with SLE, but not those from RA or healthy control subjects, underwent spontaneous CSR, as assessed by expression of germline Ig1-Cg1, Ig2-Cg2, Ig3-Cg3, Ig4-Cg4 and Ia1-Ca1 transcripts, mature (switched) VHDJH-Cg1, VHDJH-Cg2, VHDJH-Cg3 and VHDJH-Ca1 transcripts and secreted IgG and IgA. Although polymorphic DNA sequences were identified in the ECS-Ig1, ECS-Ig2 and ECS-Ig4 promoter regions, the transcription factor-binding sites that mediate germline Ig-Cg transcription were conserved in patients and controls. However, distinct patterns of nuclear protein binding to an ECS-Ig promoter sequence that contains both positive and negative regulatory elements were observed in SLE patients and controls. These results support a role for exogenous signals, such as through CD40 ligation, rather than altered genomic sequence, in the increased production of class switched autoantibodies in SLE.
A distributed computing architecture for simulation and optimization

We design a generic framework to integrate distributed simulation and optimization models. Many problems require the integration of these two types of models. For example, stochastic programming can use simulation models as a scenario generator for optimization models; in some other cases, simulation models need optimization models to help determine system parameters. The framework is shown to be able to provide various services to help the integration of simulation and optimization models. We illustrate our implementation with a product-mix example. The example integrates a discrete event simulation of a product-mix problem with a linear programming (optimization) model of such a system. The simulation updates the parameters in the optimization model, which as a result will generate a new production plan.
A homologue of the tryptophan-rich sensory protein TspO and FixL regulate a novel nutrient deprivation-induced Sinorhizobium meliloti locus.

A nutrient deprivation-induced locus in Sinorhizobium meliloti strain 1021 was identified by use of a Tn5-luxAB reporter gene transposon. The tagged locus is comprised of two open reading frames (ORFs) designated ndiA and ndiB for nutrient deprivation-induced genes A and B. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequences of both ndiA and ndiB to the protein databases failed to reveal similarity to any known genes. The expression of the ndi locus was found to be induced by carbon and nitrogen deprivation, osmotic stress, and oxygen limitation and during entry into stationary phase. To identify regulatory components involved in the control of ndi gene expression, a second round of mutagenesis was performed on the primary ndiB::Tn5-luxAB-tagged strain (C22) with transposon Tn1721. A double-mutant strain was obtained that lacked ndi locus transcriptional activity under all of the inducing conditions tested. The Tn1721-tagged gene showed a high degree of similarity to tryptophan-rich sensory protein TspO from Rhodobacter sphaeroides, as well as to mitochondrial benzodiazepine receptor pK18 from mammals. Induction of the ndi::Tn5-luxAB reporter gene fusion was restored under all inducing conditions by introducing the tspO coding region, from either S. meliloti or R. sphaeroides ,i ntrans. Furthermore, it was found that, in addition to tspO, fixL, which encodes the sensor protein of an oxygen-sensing two-component system, is required for full expression of the ndi locus, but only under low oxygen tension.
Colorado Family Practice Graduates' Preparation for and Practice of Emergency Medicine

Background Family physicians provide care in emergency departments, especially in rural areas; however, no published data describe how they perceive their preparation for emergency practice. We surveyed graduates of Colorado family practice residencies concerning their emergency medicine practice, their comfort working in emergency departments, and their perceived preparation for practicing emergency medicine. Methods Seventy recent graduates of Colorado residencies were surveyed regarding their location, work in emergency departments, contact with emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, and perceptions about their emergency medical training. Results Forty-five percent of respondents practiced in rural settings, 33% worked in emergency departments (56% rural, 14% urban), 60% reported contact with EMS personnel (91% rural, 32% urban), 54% believed their training adequately prepared them for working in emergency departments (82% rural vs 32% urban), 63% of rural and 22% of urban respondents indicated they wanted more major trauma experience during training, 70% reported discomfort with managing trauma, and 44% were interested in a 6-month emergency medicine fellowship. Conclusions Most respondents believed their training in emergency medicine was adequate; however, most also reported discomfort with trauma management. Improved training for family physicians who provide emergency care could include expanded trauma care opportunities, increased work with EMS personnel, and postresidency training.
Mammalian Visitation to Candidate Feral Swine Attractants

Few data exist regarding suitable feral swine (Sus scrofa) attractants in the United States. We compared species-specific visitation and contact rates of mammals to 11 candidate feral swine attractants at scent stations using motion-sensing digital photography to identify promising attractants. We found feral swine had greater visitation rates to apple and strawberry stations than to control stations. We recommend managers consider using strawberry attractants for feral swine-specific applications. If, however, a general feral swine attractant is needed, then apple, berry, or caramel attractants may perform well.
Heat acclimation improves exercise performance

This study examined the impact of heat acclimation on improving exercise performance in cool and hot environments. Twelve trained cyclists performed tests of maximal aerobic power (Vo2max), time-trial performance, and lactate threshold, in both cool [13°C, 30% relative humidity (RH)] and hot (38°C, 30% RH) environments before and after a 10-day heat acclimation (∼50% Vo2max in 40°C) program. The hot and cool condition Vo2max and lactate threshold tests were both preceded by either warm (41°C) water or thermoneutral (34°C) water immersion to induce hyperthermia (0.8–1.0°C) or sustain normothermia, respectively. Eight matched control subjects completed the same exercise tests in the same environments before and after 10 days of identical exercise in a cool (13°C) environment. Heat acclimation increased Vo2max by 5% in cool (66.8 ± 2.1 vs. 70.2 ± 2.3 ml·kg−1·min−1, P = 0.004) and by 8% in hot (55.1 ± 2.5 vs. 59.6 ± 2.0 ml·kg−1·min−1, P = 0.007) conditions. Heat acclimation improved time-trial performance by 6% in cool (879.8 ± 48.5 vs. 934.7 ± 50.9 kJ, P = 0.005) and by 8% in hot (718.7 ± 42.3 vs. 776.2 ± 50.9 kJ, P = 0.014) conditions. Heat acclimation increased power output at lactate threshold by 5% in cool (3.88 ± 0.82 vs. 4.09 ± 0.76 W/kg, P = 0.002) and by 5% in hot (3.45 ± 0.80 vs. 3.60 ± 0.79 W/kg, P < 0.001) conditions. Heat acclimation increased plasma volume (6.5 ± 1.5%) and maximal cardiac output in cool and hot conditions (9.1 ± 3.4% and 4.5 ± 4.6%, respectively). The control group had no changes in Vo2max, time-trial performance, lactate threshold, or any physiological parameters. These data demonstrate that heat acclimation improves aerobic exercise performance in temperate-cool conditions and provide the scientific basis for employing heat acclimation to augment physical training programs.
Exclusive male care despite extreme female promiscuity and low paternity in a marine snail.

Males exhibit striking variation in the degree to which they invest in offspring, from merely provisioning females with sperm, to providing exclusive post-zygotic care. Paternity assurance is often invoked to explain this variation: the greater a male’s confidence of paternity, the more he should be willing to provide care. Here, we report a striking exception to expectations based on paternity assurance: despite high levels of female promiscuity, males of a marine snail provide exclusive, and costly, care of offspring. Remarkably, genetic paternity analyses reveal cuckoldry in all broods, with fewer than 25% of offspring being sired by the caring male, although caring males sired proportionally more offspring in a given clutch than any other fathers did individually. This system presents the most extreme example of the coexistence of high levels of female promiscuity, low paternity, and costly male care, and emphasises the still unresolved roles of natural and sexual selection in the evolution of male parental care.
In-situ spectral ellipsometry monitoring/control of MBE growth

Spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) has received considerable attention for semiconductor growth monitoring and control due to its ability to determine the thickness and composition of thin parallel layers. In this work, we report on the use of spectroscopic ellipsometry for monitoring and control of AlGaAs growth in molecular beam epitaxy. Knowledge of the optical constants as a function of composition and growth parameters is essential for modeling to be able to extract the composition and growth rate from measured SE data. For this work, we have used the virtual interface approximation to extract the growth rate and composition of of Al/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/As films grown at normal and elevated temperatures. At elevated temperatures, Ga possessed a sticking coefficient less than 1. 900 K Ga was observed to grow at a constant rate. At elevated temperatures the Ga growth rate decreased until at 940 K no continued growth was observed. Under all conditions SE accurately predicted the observed growth rates.
Encouraging task-related dialog in 2D and 3D shared narrative workspaces

This paper describes a series of studies conducted to evaluate methods of encouraging productive dialog between young children in 2D and 3D shared narrative workspaces. These workspaces were based on the Graphic Story Writer (GSW), an interactive system that produces coherent narrative text in response to user interactions. In particular, we examine the effect of introducing "positive interdependence" between collaborators as a way of encouraging productive dialog.Three studies of user interactions with the GSW were performed. An initial study of collaborative storytelling using a 2D version of the GSW demonstrated the technical feasibility of creating a shared 2D workspace devoted to narrative construction The study also confirmed the difficulty of encouraging communication between children during synchronous learning activities at separate computers. The second study introduced an additional condition that created positive interdependence between users. Users in this condition had significantly more on-task communication than those in the other conditions. We go on to describe how we modified the 2D GSW model to support collaboration in a 3D shared workspace, and provide observations and insights gained from a usability study of the 3D GSW.
Formation of convective carbon dioxide clouds near the south pole of Mars

[1] Observations from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) indicate a distinct difference in the nature of north and south polar clouds. The majority of north polar clouds are diffuse with relatively low optical extinction (channel 4 clouds). In contrast, a significant number of south polar clouds provide very strong laser echoes suggesting optical extinction as high as 300 km−1 (channel 1 clouds). These high extinction clouds were almost exclusively observed in the polar night between 70° and 85°S. We have previously shown that the low extinction clouds are composed of a small number of large carbon dioxide particles, which form in relatively gentle updrafts, or lee waves. A possible explanation for the high extinction clouds is that they are composed of more, but somewhat smaller, carbon dioxide particles forming in high-velocity convective updrafts. Numerical simulations using a microphysical cloud model show that the cloud extinction depends most strongly on the availability of ice nuclei (IN), assumed to be dust, and the updraft velocity. Radiative cooling by the CO2 clouds can further destabilize the air column. Cloud extinction consistent with MOLA observations is produced for IN concentrations greater than 5 cm−3 and updraft core velocities of ∼2 m s−1. The discrepancy in north and south cloud extinction may be the result of differing IN concentrations and stability regimes between the north and south polar regions. Many channel 4 clouds may also be convective but formed in air with either low updraft velocities or low abundances of ice nuclei.
Application of Virtual Three-Dimensional Models for Simultaneous Visualization of Intracardiac Anatomic Relationships in Double Outlet Right Ventricle

Our goal was to construct three-dimensional (3D) virtual models to allow simultaneous visualization of the ventricles, ventricular septal defect (VSD) and great arteries in patients with complex intracardiac anatomy to aid in surgical planning. We also sought to correlate measurements from the source cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) image dataset and the 3D model. Complicated ventriculo-arterial relationships in patients with complex conotruncal malformations make preoperative assessment of possible repair pathways difficult. Patients were chosen with double outlet right ventricle for the complexity of intracardiac anatomy and potential for better delineation of anatomic spatial relationships. Virtual 3D models were generated from CMR 3D datasets. Measurements were made on the source CMR as well as the 3D model for the following structures: aortic diameter in orthogonal planes, VSD diameter in orthogonal planes and long axis of right ventricle. A total of six patients were identified for inclusion. The path from the ventricles to each respective outflow tract and the location of the VSD with respect to each great vessel was visualized clearly in all patients. Measurements on the virtual model showed excellent correlation with the source CMR when all measurements were included by Pearson coefficient, r = 0.99 as well as for each individual structure. Construction of virtual 3D models in patients with complex conotruncal defects from 3D CMR datasets allows for simultaneous visualization of anatomic relationships relevant for surgical repair. The availability of these models may allow for a more informed preoperative evaluation in these patients.
Imaging and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists: uncovering their role in atherosclerosis development.

Technologic advances have enhanced clinical understanding of the physical changes that occur in the vasculature during atherosclerosis development. Traditionally, diagnostic techniques such as angiography have focused on the lumen of the coronary arteries, with narrowing of the lumen suggesting the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in the vessel wall. Newer methods, such as intravascular ultrasound, focus on the vessel wall itself and have shown that extensive plaque development can occur in conjunction with minimal luminal restriction of the artery. In fact, lumen narrowing occurs only in the very late stages of atherosclerosis, suggesting that, in many cases, the early stages of disease development would remain undetected when angiographic techniques are used. The ability to detect atheromatous disease, particularly in the early stages of development, must be accompanied by systemic pharmacologic therapies effective in inducing atherosclerotic regression. With this in mind, a recent study in patients treated with statins has shown less progression with aggressive lipid lowering, while the findings from trials employing peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonists are eagerly awaited.
Loss of bipolar cells resulting from the expression of bcl-2 directed by the IRBP promoter.

We have recently noted marked reductions in the electroretinographic (ERG) b-wave in HIBA transgenic mice expressing bcl-2 under control of the human IRBP promoter. These electrophysiological results are unexpected as this promoter has been shown to specifically target transgene expression to the rod and cone photoreceptors. Here, we have carried out a series of studies to better understand this result. ERGs were recorded from three lines of HIBA transgenic mice. Mice with higher levels of transgene expression developed progressive photoreceptor degeneration, and an associated reduction in the ERG a-wave. These higher-expressing lines also exhibited a severe reduction in the ERG b-wave that affected both rod- and cone-mediated responses. These mice were mated to L7 transgenic mice, which express β-galactosidase in bipolar cells. In double transgenic mice, the ERG b-wave reduction was associated with a decrease in the number of bipolar cells in the inner retina. These results indicate that bcl-2, targeted to photoreceptors, can induce bipolar cell degeneration, and indicate that the potential benefit for bcl-2 in treating hereditary retinal disease appears limited.
Sialochemistry: A Diagnostic Tool?

Saliva has proven to be a discriminating element in forensic arenas, an effective indicator of acute diseases of salivary glands, and a promising probe for drug monitoring. With the advent of sensitive immunochemical assays, the compositional profile of human salivary secretions has been expanded considerably. Thus, the establishment of a range of "normal values" for a variety of "intrinsic" and "extrinsic" salivary components represented the initial step to use saliva as a diagnostic tool of oral health status. Unfortunately, numerous cross-sectional studies have shown a wide individual variation in the salivary composition of healthy populations, thus precluding its use as a diagnostic chair-side test for the screening of the most common chronic oral diseases (e.g. caries and periodontal disease). A possible explanation may arise from the wide functional versatility of salivary molecules. For instance, it has been recognized recently that in addition to its digestive properties, salivary amylase may modulate bacterial colonization, whereas histatins are not only antifungal but also bactericidal. Thus, low levels of already known antimicrobial salivary molecules (e.g., secretory IgA, lactoferrin, and lysozyme) could be compensated with higher concentrations of other molecules with antimicrobial activity, such as amylase and histatins. Consequently, for caries and periodontal diseases, longitudinal sialochemical studies may yield more insight than cross-sectional studies.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging of complex human movements

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI) is a new, noninvasive imaging tool thought to measure changes related to regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). Previous FMRI studies have demonstrated functional changes within the primary cerebral cortex in response to simple activation tasks, but it is unknown whether FMRI can also detect changes within the nonprimary cortex in response to complex mental activities. We therefore scanned six right-handed healthy subjects while they performed self-paced simple and complex finger movements with the right and left hands. Some subjects also performed the tasks at a fixed rate (2 Hz) or imagined performing the complex task. Functional changes occurred (1) in the contralateral primary motor cortex during simple, self-paced movements; (2) in the contralateral (and occasionally ipsilateral) primary motor cortex, the supplementary motor area (SMA), the premotor cortex of both hemispheres, and the contralateral somatosensory cortex during complex, self-paced movements; (3) with less intensity during paced movements, presumably due to the slower movement rates associated with the paced (relative to self-paced) condition; and (4) in the SMA and, to a lesser degree, the premotor cortex during imagined complex movements. These preliminary results are consistent with hierarchical models of voluntary motor control.
Centrosomes in the zebrafish (Danio rerio): a review including the related basal body

Ever since Edouard Van Beneden and Theodor Boveri first formally described the centrosome in the late 1800s, it has captivated cell biologists. The name clearly indicated its central importance to cell functioning, even to these early investigators. We now know of its role as a major microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) and of its dynamic roles in cell division, vesicle trafficking and for its relative, the basal body, ciliogenesis. While centrosomes are found in most animal cells, notably it is absent in most oocytes and higher plant cells. Nevertheless, it appears that critical components of the centrosome act as MTOCs in these cells as well. The zebrafish has emerged as an exciting and promising new model organism, primarily due to the pioneering efforts of George Streisinger to use zebrafish in genetic studies and due to Christiane Nusslein-Volhard, Wolfgang Driever and their teams of collaborators, who applied forward genetics to elicit a large number of mutant lines. The transparency and rapid external development of the embryo allow for experiments not easily done in other vertebrates. The ease of producing transgenic lines, often with the use of fluorescent reporters, and gene knockdowns with antisense morpholinos further contributes to the appeal of the model as an experimental system. The added advantage of high-throughput screening of small-molecule libraries, as well as the ease of mass rearing together with low cost, makes the zebrafish a true frontrunner as a model vertebrate organism. The zebrafish has a body plan shared by all vertebrates, including humans. This conservation of body plan provides added significance to the existing lines of zebrafish as human disease models and adds an impetus to the ongoing efforts to develop new models. In this review, the current state of knowledge about the centrosome in the zebrafish model is explored. Also, studies on the related basal body in zebrafish and their relationship to ciliogenesis are reviewed.
Open-label pilot trial of levetiracetam for cramps and spasticity in patients with motor neuron disease

Cramps and spasticity impair quality of life and function in patients with motor neuron diseases, and there are no proven treatments for these problems. We conducted a pilot trial to determine if treatment with levetiracetam was associated with a reduction in cramp severity, cramp frequency, tonic or phasic spasticity. We used an open-label repeated measures pilot trial of 20 patients, comparing cramp and spasticity scores over a 3-month baseline versus nine months on treatment. Cramp and spasticity scores were stable over a 3-month baseline. Shortly after starting levetiracetam, there was a significant reduction in cramp severity and frequency, which persisted for the duration of this year-long study. There was also a reduction in phasic but not tonic spasticity. Levetiracetam was well tolerated. Our results justify a placebo-controlled study of levetiracetam for treatment of cramps and spasticity in patients with motor neuron diseases, and suggest that this can be accomplished with a small number of subjects followed for a short time.
LATTICE DIMENSIONS OF SOME SOLID SOLUTIONS IN THE SYSTEM MgO‐Al2O3*

The lattice dimension of magnesia spinel was determined to be a0= 8.064 0.002 A.U. The lattice dimension of solid solutions of this spinel with αAl2O3 decreases progressively with increase of Al2O3.
Gene regulation and molecular toxicology.

AbstractThe study of gene expression has become a cornerstone of molecular toxicology and toxicogenomics. From a toxicological standpoint, constitutive expression levels of a gene could be just as important in determining the outcome of toxicity as the inducible expression. There are six distinct steps at which gene expression can be controlled; these are transcription, RNA processing, RNA transport, translation, mRNA degradation, and control of protein activity. While this overall paradigm of gene regulation is still valid, the complexity of genetic regulation begins mostly at the level of transcription and certain post-transcriptional events. A thorough understanding of the complexity and fluidity of gene and genome structure and their regulation is an integral part in the theory and practice of molecular toxicology and toxicogenomics. The present article is an attempt to briefly summarize our understanding of gene regulation beginning from the cistron concept. Relevance of molecular toxicology to gene ...
Comparing the capitalisation benefits of light-rail transit and overlay zoning for single-family houses and condos by neighbourhood type in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona

Light rail transit (LRT) is increasingly accompanied by overlay zoning which specifies the density and type of future development to encourage landscapes conducive to transit use. Neighbourhood type (based on land use mix) is used to partition data and investigate how pre-existing land use, treatment with a park-and-ride (PAR) versus walk-and-ride (WAR) station and overlay zoning interrelate. Hedonic models estimate capitalisation effects of LRT-related accessibility and overlay zoning on single-family houses and condos in different neighbourhoods for the system in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona. Impacts differ by housing and neighbourhood type. Amenity-dominated mixed-use neighbourhoods-predominantly WAR communities-experience premiums of 6 per cent for single-family houses and over 20 per cent for condos, the latter boosted an additional 37 per cent by overlay zoning. Residential neighbourhoods-predominantly PAR communities-experience no capitalisation benefits for single-family houses and a discount for condos. The results suggest that land use mix is an important variable to select comparable neighbourhoods.
Negative affect, stress, and smoking in college students: Unique associations independent of alcohol and marijuana use

Introduction Stress and negative affect (NA) figure prominently in theoretical models of smoking initiation, maintenance and relapse, yet few studies have examined these associations among college students. Further complicating examination of these associations, smoking often occurs in the context of other substance use (e.g., alcohol, marijuana) in college populations. Thus, it remains unclear whether stress and NA are associated with cigarette use among college students, and if so, whether these associations are evident after controlling for effects of other substance use. The goals of this study were: a) to examine whether several aspects of stress (objective events, subjective experiences) and NA (sad mood, general emotional distress) were associated with cigarette smoking among college students and b) whether associations remained after accounting for alcohol and marijuana use.
How far has the molecular alignment of liquid crystals been elucidated

Liquid crystal displays (LCDs) - born in late 1960s - have become a 45 billion-dollar industry in 2004. Today's LCD panels cover a wide range of sizes from 0.2 to 82 in diagonal. The electro-optical characteristics of any field effect LCD are determined by the orientation of its liquid crystal (LC) molecules at the display boundaries. Until recently most LCD alignment processes were based on rubbing polymer coated LCD substrates with a cloth. Despite its key importance, the complex mechanism governing the alignment of LC molecules on display substrates is still not well understood. Do the microgrooves generated by rubbing induce LC-alignment or does the stretching of polymer chains as a result of brushing cause it? To overcome the drawbacks of conventional aligning techniques, new alignment processes have recently been proposed and developed. Examples are micro embossing, ion bombardment, fringe field effects and photo-alignment. In this paper, some mechanisms of LC alignment are discussed and various alignment techniques and methods to investigate the interaction of LC molecules with substrates are reviewed.
Active Surveillance for Small Renal Masses: A Review of the Aims and Preliminary Results of the DISSRM Registry

Active surveillance is an increasingly accepted treatment modality for select patients with small renal masses. The DISSRM (delayed intervention and surveillance for small renal masses) registry is a multi-institutional, prospectively collected data repository which includes patients who select active surveillance for their small renal masses, as well as others who select immediate intervention. Preliminary results from the registry suggest oncological equivalence of active surveillance and surgical modalities in the intermediate term. Additionally, the registry provides the first published data regarding trends in renal function among patients undergoing active surveillance. On average, these patients experience a decline in renal function, and their renal functional outcomes are superior to those of patients undergoing radical nephrectomy, but do not significantly differ from those of patients undergoing partial nephrectomy.
Baseline rolling resistance for tires’ on-road fuel efficiency using finite element modeling

Calculation of truck tires rolling resistance, using the finite element method and considering variables such as incompressible visco-hyperelastic rubber materials, accurate tire geometry and steady temperature distribution, is presented. The model was validated using experimentally measured contact area and contact stresses. Rolling resistance was calculated for three values of axle load, tire inflation pressure, temperature and speed. In addition, regression analysis was used to propose a mathematical expression for predicting rolling resistance as a function of the considered variables. Finally, the contribution of tire’s rubber components to the internal energy was quantified, and it was found that sidewall and subtread were the most relevant. The results of this study will help differentiate the contribution of pavement parameters, such as mean profile depth and international roughness index, to fuel efficiency.
Monoclonal Antibodies for Detection of Lymphocyte Markers: Comparison of Three Commercial Kits

Three commercial monoclonal antibody kits (Histoset®, OrthoDiagnostics, Raritan, NJ; T Cell Panel®, Becton Dickinson, Mountain View, CA; Histotag® Lymphoma Set, Hybritech Inc., San Diego, CA) were compared, using touch preparations, frozen sections, and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded sections of 14 tonsils. With the first two kits, sensitive results were obtained in touch preparations and frozen sections with strong, crisp, reproducible immunostain. Results were accurate and easily interpreted despite moderate background staining. Distribution and numbers of lymphocytes and subsets were appropriate. The Histotag® Lymphoma Set was sensitive for detection of T-cells in touch preparations and frozen sections. Hazy, moderate immunostain was obtained with B-cell and common leukocyte antibodies. Accuracy was questioned because of variable and false-negative results (75% in touch preparations) with all anti-sera, and interfollicular staining for B-lymphocytes. In formalin-fixed sections, positive results of low sensitivity were obtained only with the T Cell Panel®. The Histoset® and T Cell Panel® are recommended, particularly for use with frozen sections.
Optical coherence photoacoustic microscopy (OC-PAM) with an intensity-modulated continuous-wave broadband light source

We developed an optical coherence photoacoustic microscopy system using an intensity-modulated continuous-wave superluminescent diode with a center wavelength of 840 nm. The system can accomplish optical coherence tomography (OCT) and photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) simultaneously. Compared to the system with a pulsed light source, this system is able to achieve OCT imaging with quality as high as conventional spectral-domain OCT. Since both of the OCT and PAM images are generated from the same group of photons, they are intrinsically registered in the lateral directions. The system was tested for multimodal imaging the vasculature of mouse ear in vivo by using gold nanorods as contrast agent for PAM, as well as excised porcine eyes ex vivo. The OCT and PAM images showed complimentary information of the sample.
Correlation of Left Atrial Appendage Ejection Velocities with the CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc Scores

Background In patients with atrial fibrillation or flutter, a left atrial appendage ejection velocity measured via transesophageal echocardiography equal to or less than 40 cm/sec has been shown to correlate with an increased risk of developing left atrial appendage thrombus while velocities greater than 40 cm/sec are at lower risk. The CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores calculated from clinical variables have been developed to risk stratify patients with atrial fibrillation/flutter in regard to the need for anticoagulation. This study was designed to assess whether a relationship exists between left atrial appendage ejection velocities and the respective CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores, and whether this relationship is affected by the presence of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed on patients in the last 5 years who had undergone a transesophageal echocardiogram in which LAA velocity was measured. Once these patients were identified, relevant clinical information allowing for the calculation of the CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores was also extracted from the medical record. Results Data from a total of 151 patients were included in the study. A statistically significant correlation between LAA velocity and CHADS2 score (P = 0.942) or between LAA velocity and CHA2DS2-VASc scores (P = 0.723) was not found. Conclusions We could not identify a relationship between either the CHADS2 or CHA2DS2-VASc scores and LAA velocities. This was true regardless of whether patients were in sinus rhythm or AF at the time of the TEE. While reduced LAA velocities increase the risk of LAA thrombus, the development of stroke in patients with AF is secondary to a complex interplay of multiple clinical variables.
Meta-analysis on inhibitory effectiveness of tacrolimus and ciclosporin on acute rejection in patients after kidney transplatation

Objective To explore the inhibitory effectiveness of tacrolimus(Tac) and ciclosporin(Csa) on acute rejection in patients after kidney transplantation and to provide guidance for the selection of immunosuppression medicine after kidney transplantation.Methods Computer searches were in Medline and CNKI.The randomized controlled trials(RCT) comparing Tac with CsA in treatment of acute rejection after transplantation were included.Data was extracted independently by two reviewers.The methodological quality was assessed by the Jadad Score.Statistical analysis was performed with RavMan 5.0.Results 226 studies were found at first,and 31 RCTs comparing Tac with CsA in treatment of acute rejection after kidney transplantation were identified at last.Meta-analysis showed that 2 and 14 studies about biopsy-proved acute rejection during half a year and 1 year after transplantation were included.The morbidities of acute rejection during half a year and 1 year after transplantation in Tac group were lower than those in CsA group with statistical difference,half a year RR 0.49,95%CI(0.37,0.67),P0.01;1 year RR 0.65,95%CI(0.56,0.75),P0.01.For steriod-resistant acute rejection 4 and 7 studies were included during half a year and 1 year after transplantation.The morbidities of acute rejection during half a year and 1 year after transplantation in Tac group were lower than those in CsA group with statistical difference,half a year RR 0.41,95%CI(0.30,0.57),P0.01;1 year RR 0.54,95%CI(0.37,0.78),P=0.01.Conclusion The effectiveness of Tac in inhibiting acute rejection after kidney transplantation is better than CsA.
69‐2: Oxide‐TFT Mobility Limits and CMOS Feasibility

A physics-based model for transport in an amorphous semiconductor is developed to estimate the mobility limits of oxide TFTs. The model involves band tail state trapping of a diffusive mobility. Simulation reveals a strong dependence on the Urbach energy. This consideration makes it difficult to realize a highperformance p-type oxide.
Psychopathology of very mild dementia of the Alzheimer type

The authors describe psychiatric abnormalities, including personality and affective changes and psychotic symptoms, associated with very mild senile dementia of the Alzheimer type. The behavioral and affective changes in the subjects with very mild dementia resembled those occurring in subjects with mild dementia, but psychotic symptoms rarely occurred until the dementia had progressed to at least a mild stage.
Cobalt Particle Size Effects in the Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis and in the Hydrogenation of CO2 Studied with Nanoparticle Model Catalysts on Silica

We have investigated the effect of cobalt nanoparticle size in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (CO/H2) and have compared it to data obtained for carbon dioxide hydrogenation (CO2/H2) using model catalysts produced by colloidal methods. Both reactions demonstrated size dependence, in which we observed an increase of the turnover frequency with increasing average particle size. In both case, a maximum activity was found for cobalt particles around 10–11 nm in size. Regarding the selectivity, no size-dependent effect has been observed for the CO2 hydrogenation, whereas CO hydrogenation selectivity depends both on the temperature and on the size of the particles. The hydrogenation of CO2 produces mainly methane and carbon monoxide for all sizes and temperatures. The Fischer–Tropsch reaction exhibited small changes in the selectivity at low temperature (below 250 °C) while at high temperatures we observed an increase in chain growth with the increase of the size of cobalt particles. At 250 °C, large crystallites exhibit a higher selectivity to olefin than to the paraffin equivalents, indicating a decrease in the hydrogenation activity.
Cerebral embolism after gunshot wounds.

A 22-year-old man presented with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the left neck. The rifle used was a 22 caliber filled with multiple small bird-shot pellets. Medical history was noncontributory
High-Frequency (HF) Link Establishment

This book chapter presents the high-frequency communication link design and establishment. The proceeding section provides a review of system design trade-off considerations and an overview of propagation and system performance predictions. Next, a design example showing how a radio link may be designed. And lastly, a new tool is introduced that provides automated assistance for HF skywave frequency selection and applications planning.
Private Lives, Public Deaths: Antigone and the Invention of Individuality

EDUCATION: 1993 Ph.D. in French, Yale University Dissertation: “Thinking Beyond Coherence: Literary Unity and Fragmentation in Nerval’s Autobiographical Writings.” Director: Denis Hollier Minor: Philosophy 1989 Study at the University of Regensburg, Bavaria 1988-89 Thesis research, enrolled at the Ecole Normale Superieure, Paris 1986-88 M.Phil. in French, Yale University 1985-86 Graduate study in French at Cornell University 1983-85 M.A. in French. New York University in France 1983 Summmer Latin Institute, City University of New York 1978.82 B.A, cum laude, distinction in the literature major, Yale University
The Last Four Queens of Henry VIII in The Tudors

Media observers understand how impossible it is for even a four-season television series like Showtime’s The Tudors to mirror historical realities, as a monarch’s reign must be squeezed into a few hours. However, Showtime’s distortions arise from reasons other than this need for reduction. Michael Hirst includes gratuitous sexual scenes and seriously alters historical characters, including Henry VIII’s last four wives. A complacent Jane Seymour (Anita Briem in the second season) seems willing to become Henry’s mistress until she discovers the possibility of marriage, but in the third season Jane (Annabelle Wallis) appears as a devout Catholic. The next consort, Anne of Cleves (Joss Stone), finds his ulcerous leg repugnant but agrees to bed down with him after their annulment. Catherine Howard (Tamzin Merchant) represents an early-modern Lolita. Finally, the portrayal of Catherine Parr (Joely Richardson) closely reflects the queen’s life after her royal marriage, but the courtship scenes are Hirst’s creation. This chapter will analyze the consorts’ characters and the actresses’ interpretation of them. It will then provide a brief historical account evaluating these representations.
Johann Wolfgang Goethe, Gedenkausgabe der Werke, Briefe und Gespräche: Zürich: Artemis-Verlag. Bd. VII: Wilhelm Meisters Lehrjahre, 1948; Bd. VIII: Wilhelm Meisters Wanderjahre, Wilhelm Meisters Theatralische Sendung, 1949; Bd. IX: Die Wahlverwandtschaften, Die Novellen, Die Maximen und Reflexionen, 1949.

(1954). Johann Wolfgang Goethe, Gedenkausgabe der Werke, Briefe und Gesprache. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 29, No. 2, pp. 146-147.
Keynote talk I: How to prove hybrid systems

Hybrid systems combine discrete dynamics with continuous dynamics along differential equations. They arise frequently in many safety-critical application domains, including aviation, automotive, railway, and robotics. But how can we ensure that these systems are guaranteed to meet their design goals, e.g., that an aircraft will not crash into another one? This talk describes how hybrid systems can be proved using differential dynamic logic. Differential dynamic logic (dL) provides compositional logics, programming languages, and reasoning principles for hybrid systems. As implemented in the theorem prover KeYmaera X, dL has been instrumental in verifying many applications, including the Airborne Collision Avoidance System ACAS X, the European Train Control System ETCS, automotive systems, mobile robot navigation, and a surgical robot system for skull-base surgery.
The Asylum Claim for Victims of Attempted Trafficking

The state of the law regarding refugees in the United States has been characterized in the recent past by inconsistent rulings among the Circuit Courts, and narrow applications of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, which provides the basis for asylum eligibility. In the midst of this sometimes-contradictory application of the INA, victims of attempted sex trafficking (those who have faced threats or attempts by sex traffickers to force them into sexual slavery) have consistently been rejected for asylum by U.S. courts. Federal courts have uniformly denied these asylum claims by ruling that these victims do not meet the INA’s requirement that refugees fall into a particular social group. Therefore, this Comment focuses largely on the argument that U.S. courts have interpreted the “social group” provision in an unduly narrow fashion, and that victims of attempted trafficking do indeed satisfy this element of the INA’s test for asylum eligibility. This Comment argues that U.S. courts’ rejections of these asylum claims are inconsistent with the legislative intent behind the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, federal case law that has granted asylum petitions in similar contexts, and the United Nations’ and international interpretations of refugee law. Based on these reasons and public policy concerns, U.S. courts should recognize the valid claims of many of these victims of attempted trafficking, and grant them the asylum that they deserve.
A glimpse into multigene rare variant genetics: triple mutations in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Four remarkable hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) pedigrees, each containing 1 individual harboring 3 HCM mutations, have been published by Girolami et al. ([1][1]) in this issue of the Journal . With a backdrop of the cardiovascular phenotypes and genotypes of their family members, these 4
Automated assessment of blood flow in developing embryonic hearts by extending dynamic range of Doppler OCT using a MHz FDML swept laser source (Conference Presentation)

Altered hemodynamics in developing embryonic hearts lead to congenital heart diseases, motivating close monitoring of blood flow over several stages of development. Doppler OCT can assess blood flow in tubular hearts, but the maximum velocity increases drastically during the period of cardiac cushion (valve precursors) formation. Therefore, the limited dynamic range of Doppler OCT velocity measurement makes it difficult to conduct longitudinal studies without phase wrapping at high velocities or loss of sensitivity to slow velocities. We have built a high-speed OCT system using an FDML laser (Optores GmbH, Germany) at a sweep rate of 1.68 MHz (axial resolution - 12 μm, sensitivity - 105 dB, phase stability - 17 mrad). The speed of this OCT system allows us to acquire high-density B-scans to obtain an extended velocity dynamic range without sacrificing the frame rate. The extended dynamic range within a frame is achieved by varying the A-scan interval at which the phase difference is found, enabling detection of velocities ranging from tens of microns per second to hundreds of mm per second. The extra lines in a frame can also be utilized to improve the structural and Doppler images via complex averaging. In structural images where presence of blood causes additional scattering, complex averaging helps retrieve features located deeper in the tissue. Moreover, high-density frames can be registered to 4D volumes to determine the orthogonal direction of flow and calculate shear stress. In conclusion, our high-speed OCT system will enable automated Doppler imaging of embryonic hearts in cohort studies.
Enhanced Photoluminescence of Monolayer WS2 on Ag Films and Nanowire–WS2–Film Composites

Monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), due to their structural similarity to graphene, emerge as a promising alternative material of integrated optoelectronic devices. Recently, intense research efforts have been devoted to the combination of atomically thin TMDCs with metallic nanostructures to enhance the light–matter interaction in TMDCs. One crucial parameter for semiconductor–metallic nanostructure hybrids is the spacer thickness between the gain media and the plasmonic resonator, which needs to be optimized to balance radiation enhancement and radiation quenching. In current investigations of TMDCs–plamonic coupling, one often adopts a spacer thickness of ∼5 nm or larger, a typical value for transitional gain media–plasmonic composites. However, it is unclear whether this typical spacer thickness represents the optimal value for TMDCs–plasmonic hybrids. Here we address this critical issue by studying the spacer thickness dependence of the luminescent efficiency in the monolayer tungsten...
Stem Cells in Spinal Fusion

Study Design:Review of literature.Objectives:This review of literature investigates the application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in spinal fusion, highlights potential uses in the development o...
Erratum to: Public Key Cryptography – PKC 2009

Erratum to: S. Jarecki and G. Tsudik (Eds.) Public Key Cryptography – PKC 2009 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-00468-1