cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Uric acid saturation in calcium nephrolithiasis

Uric acid saturation in calcium nephrolithiasis. Hyperuricosuria appears to cause calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis by promoting the formation of monosodium urate or uric acid crystals, which either act as seed crystals for calcium oxalate or adsorb normally occurring macromolecular inhibitors of calcium oxalate crystallization. Both mechanisms require that hyperuricosuria cause excessive supersaturation of the urine, but this has not yet been studied under conditions of normal lifestyle. We have measured the saturation with respect to sodium hydrogen urate and the concentration of undissociated uric acid in the urine samples of 67 patients with calcium nephrolithiasis, who had idiopathic hypercalciuria, hyperuricosuria, both, or neither disorder. Patients with hyperuncosuria excreted urine that was supersaturated with respect to monosodium urate or undissociated uric acid more frequently than did other stone formers or normal subjects, and are therefore at a greater risk of forming a solid phase of monosodium urate or uric acid. Treatment measures that lowered uric acid excretion also lowered urine saturation, and this may be the reason that such treatment tends to prevent calcium stone recurrence. Solution saluree d'acide urique dans la lithiase calcique. L'hyperuricosurie senible determiner des lithiases d'oxalate de calcium en favorisant la formation de cristaux d'urate monosodique et d'acide urique qui agissent comme germe de cristallisation pour l'oxalate de calcium ou bien adsorbent les inhibiteurs macromoleculaires physiologiques de la cristallisation de l'oxalate de calcium. Les deux mecanismes exigent une sursaturation des urines en ce qui concerne l'acide urique, mais cela n'a pas encore ete etudie dans de conditions de vie normale. Nous avons mesure la saturation en ce qui concerne l'urate acide de sodium et les concentrations d'acide urique non dissocie dans les urines de 67 malades atteints de lithiase calcique qui avaient une hypercalciurie idiopathique, une hyperuricosurie, les deux desordres, ou encore aucun de ces desordres. Les patients atteints d'hyperuricosurie elaborent une urine qui est plus souvent sursaturee, en ce qui concerne l'urate monosodique ou l'acide urique non dissocie, que celle des autres individus lithiasiques ou normaux. Les malades sont donc exposes a un plus grand risque de formation d'une phase solide d'urate monosodique ou d'acide urique. Les mesures therapeutiques qui abaissent l'excretion d'acide urique diminuent aussi la sursaturation de l'urine, et ceci peut etre la raison pour laquelle de tels traitements tendent a empecher la recidive de la lithiase calcique.
Beyond the existence proof: ontological conditions, epistemological implications, and in-depth interview research

In-depth interviewing is a promising method. Alas, traditional in-depth interview sample designs prohibit generalizing. Yet, after acknowledging this limitation, in-depth interview studies generalize anyway. Generalization appears unavoidable; thus, sample design must be grounded in plausible ontological and epistemological assumptions that enable generalization. Many in-depth interviewers reject such designs. The paper demonstrates that traditional sampling for in-depth interview studies is indefensible given plausible ontological conditions, and engages the epistemological claims that purportedly justify traditional sampling. The paper finds that the promise of in-depth interviewing will go unrealized unless interviewers adopt ontologically plausible sample designs. Otherwise, in-depth interviewing can only provide existence proofs, at best.
Tetrabutylammonium benzoate‐initiated polymerization of propylene oxide

The polymerization of propylene oxide by the benzoate anion was aided through the use of the tetrabutylammonium counterion. The effect of the tetrabutylammonium ion was to increase the solubility of the salt and to increase the ion separation. The polymerization was carried out in a pressure reactor at temperatures from 40 to 108°C, producing polymer yields of 2–78%. The study addressed the general effects of solvent, temperature, and ratio of initiator to monomer. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
CALIFORNIA PLANNING AGENCY EXPERIENCES WITH AUTOMATED MAPPING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Powerful computing tools, including geographic information systems (GIS), computer-aided design (CAD), and thematic mapping packages, have been developed for producing maps and manipulating geographic information. Various types of computer-assisted mapping systems have been incorporated into planning practice. Research has shown that a significant number of local planning agencies in California either had or were planning to implement some type of mapping system. The experiences that have already developed automated mapping systems can greatly benefit those just beginning to move into this new technology. A mail survey of Californian planning agencies shows that they use a large number of minicomputer systems and stand-alone microcomputers for mapping purposes, that a majority of the systems are some type of GIS, and that most of the thematic mapping packages are in agencies with larger systems. The major software packages being used are identified and an attempt is made to see how hardware and software configurations are changing over time. Land parcel mapping and traditional planning tasks related to the general plan appear to be most important urban planning applications of these existing systems. Implementation and development problems based on hardware, software, and institutional factors are also explored. The respondents were either pleased with their investment in this technology or thought it was too early to tell. A few had experienced some cost overruns, generally in the area of base map preparation of attribute data acquisition. (Author/TRRL)
Computer-aided methodology for development of real-time control systems for synchronized manufacturing

Abstract Structured systems analysis and development techniques are needed to build a real-time control system (RTCS) for synchronizing the flow of production through a discrete parts manufacturing facility (DPMF). This paper shows how structured system development methods are utilized to create the specifications of such RTCSs. It also illustrates how computer-aided systems engineering (CASE) techniques can be utilized to automate certain portions of the process of implementing these structured systems development methods.
AFG2, an essential gene in yeast, encodes a new member of the Sec18p, Pas1p, Cdc48p, TBP-1 family of putative ATPases.

A gene from Saccharomyces cerevisiae was sequenced that encodes a protein with homology to a family of putative ATPases. These homologous proteins include the yeast cell division cycle protein Cdc48p and its mammalian homologues VCP and p97; Sec18p and its mammalian homologue NSF, proteins necessary for fusion of transport vesicles to target membranes in the secretory pathway; Pas1p, a protein necessary for peroxisome biosynthesis in yeast; Yme1p, a yeast mitochondrial protein that influences the rate of DNA escape from mitochondria; and TBP-1, MSS1 and Sug1p, proteins that interact with transcription factors. This newly sequenced gene, named AFG2 for ATPase family gene, is located on chromosome XII 5′ to the SLP1/VPS33 open reading reading frame and encodes an essential protein of 780 amino acids that is most homologous to Cdc48p.
Effect of Aminopterin on Radioactivity of Rat Liver- and Intestinal-Ribonucleic Acid after C14 Formate Injection.∗

SummaryTreatment of albino rats four times with 100 μg of aminopterin during a 68-hour period resulted in a severely lowered white blood cell count. The treated animals showed a reduced uptake of C14 formate in intestinal ribonucleic acid while their liver ribonucleic acid showed a markedly increased specific activity as compared with controls.
Sperm loss using different artificial vaginas in rams.

Abstract The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of certain factors on sperm loss during ram semen collection, using an artificial vagina (AV). The factors analyzed were the effect of the male (8 rams), length of the artificial vagina (short versus long), order of the ejaculate (first versus second ejaculate) and lubrication technique (with or without lube). An observational study from a data set containing 55 semen collections from the 8 rams of different breeds (Montadale, Suffolk, Hamphshire, Polypay) were evaluated during the breeding season using a multiple regression statistical analysis over a period of 10 weeks. The results did not show any differences between rams, order of the ejaculate or the use of lubrication on sperm loss. The two types of artificial vaginas however showed significant differences in the percentage sperm loss ( P 9 ) were similar when using the two types of artificial vaginas. The total ejaculate volume recorded for the short artificial vagina was 1.5 ± 0.4 ml and for the long artificial vagina was 1.3 ± 0.6 ml. The concentration of the ejaculate was 2.7 ± 0.6 × 10 9 sperm/ml for the short artificial vagina and 2.9 ± 0.7 × 10 9 sperm/ml for the long artificial vagina. The volume of semen in the collection tube using the short artificial vagina was 1.3 ± 0.4 ml, compared to the 0.7 ± 0.5 ml for the long artificial vagina ( P P
Social Facilitation in the Albino Rat

Summary Sixty–seven albino rats were tested in a maze situation under five different conditions in an attempt to investigate the presence of “social influences.” One condition was comprised of naive subjects, each run singly. A second condition was comprised of naive subjects run in pairs. A third condition consisted of naive subjects run in squads of three each. A fourth condition consisted of one naive subject run with one trained subject; and the remaining condition consisted of one naive subject run with two trained subjects. The results showed that performance was facilitated by increasing the number of naive subjects in the presence of other naive subjects (“numbers effect”), by the presence of a performing, trained S (“trained effect”), and by increasing the number of trained subjects (“interaction effect”). Inasmuch as these findings are in apparent contradiction to those reported by some previous researchers, an attempt was made to provide an explanation for the differences in experimental findings.
Development of a cell-free model for compound exocytosis using components of the chromaffin cell

Abstract A study of exocytosis and the possible role of chromaffin granules in adrenal medulla secretion is presented. This review describes a system that may recreate Ca 2+ -dependent membrane contact and fusion events that occur in exocytosis. The nature and role of synexin and other compounds in this process are discussed.
Immunocompetence of murine placental lymphocytes. In-vitro response to mitogens and to allogeneic cells.

Abstract Murine lymphoid cells from late (16-20 day) gestational placentae were studied for their ability to respond to mitogens and adult allogeneic cells in the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) and the cell-mediated lympholysis test. Placental lymphocytes from Balb/c mice expressed a weak to moderate proliferative response to concanavalin A (Con A), phytohemagglutinin (PHA), and pokeweed mitogen when compared to the mitogenic responses of adult spleen cells. The stimulatory effects of Con A and PHA were abrogated after depleting the T cells from the placental lymphocyte preparation. Lipopolysaccharide-induced reactivity was similar for both cell populations. In MLR Balb/c placental lymphocytes did not undergo significant DNA synthesis after in-vitro exposure to irradiated C57BL/6 spleen cells, nor were cytotoxic lymphocytes generated against H-2 b alloantigens. Lack of an MLR response was not associated with the presence of a suppressor lymphoid-cell population in the placenta. In marked contrast, placental trophoblastic cells were refractory in their responsiveness when cultured with either mitogens or allogeneic cells. These data show that although there is a selective deficiency in the placenta of cells reactive toward alloantigens, limited differentiation of lymphoid cells does occur which may offer immunologic protection to the fetal allograft during embryogenesis.
NITINOL-reinforced plates: Part II. Static and buckling characteristics☆

Abstract The static and buckling characteristics of flexible fiberglass NITINOL-reinforced composite plates are controlled by activating optimal sets of NITINOL fibers embedded along the midplane of these plates. The NITINOL fibers are pre-tensioned and activated to generate significant phase recovery forces in order to increase the membrane strain energy which in turn increases the critical buckling load of the NITINOL-reinforced plates. With such control capabilites, the plates can be manufactured from light weight sections without compromising their elastic stability. This feature is invaluable in building light weight structures that have high resistance to failure due to buckling. The NITINOL fibers are trained to memorize the shape of the unbuckled plate and when the plate is deflected under the action of external compressive loads, the controller activates the NITINOL fibers by heating them above their transformation temperature. The generated phase recovery forces bring the plate back to its memorized undeflected position. A finite element model of NITINOL-reinforced plates is developed to describe the interaction between the external loads, operating conditions and the geometrical and physical parameters of the composite plate and the NITINOL fibers. This model predicts the critical buckling loads of NITINOL-reinforced plates. The predicted loads are compared with results available in the literature for symmetrically isotropic, orthotropic and anisotropic laminates. The mathematical model described in this paper provides an invaluable means of predicting realistic performance of NITINOL-reinforced composites.
Do skills and behaviors in high school matter? The contribution of noncognitive factors in explaining differences in educational attainment and earnings

Using data from the National Educational Longitudinal Study (NELS), this study examines the unique and collective impact of cognitive skills and noncognitive behaviors in high school on educational attainment and earnings for a tenth grade cohort, 10 years later in 2000. The results indicate that students with better social skills, work habits, and who participated in extracurricular activities in high school had higher educational attainment and earnings, even after controlling for cognitive skills. Skills and behaviors in high school also explain a substantial portion of the socioecononomic, sex, and racial and ethnic gaps in educational attainment and earnings.
Combined ab initio, electron diffraction, molecular mechanics and vibrational investigations of 1,1 -dimethyl-trans-2-decalone

Abstract The conformational behavior of 1,1'dimethyl-trans-2-decalone was studied by combined ab initio, electron diffraction, molecular mechanics and vibrational procedures, and the molecule was found to exist in a distorted all-chair ground state with average C-C, C-H and CO bond distances of rg = 1.543 A ± 0.002, rg = 1.122 A ± 0.007, and rg = 1.236 A ± 0.012, respectively. The ab initio calculations were performed on an STO-3G minimal basis and are indicative of the growing usefulness of quantum-mechanical techniques in the study of medium-sized molecular systems.
RHODANESE AND SODIUM THIOSULFATE ENCAPSULATED IN MOUSE CARRIER ERYTHROCYTES. II, IN VIVO SURVIVABILITY AND ALTERATIONS IN PHYSIOLOGIC AND MORPHOLOGIC CHARACTERISTICS

Abstract Biodegradable drug carrier mechanisms were employed in drug antagonism studies. Prior studies indicated that erythrocytes containing encapsulated rhodanese and sodium thiosulfate metabolized cyanide to thiocyanate in vitro. Studies were conducted to investigate the properties of these sulfurtransferase-loaded red blood cells in vivo by administering the carrier red blood cells intravenously. Approximately 40 to 50% of the cells were eliminated within the first few hours while the remaining loaded erythrocytes persisted in the circulation. The present studies were initiated to investigate the characteristics of the disposition of the loaded erythrocytes and to examine differences in the properties between carrier and noncarrier erythrocytes. Also, the disposition and viability of the erythrocytes in vivo were studied with relation to various biochemical, physiological, and morphological properties. These studies indicated that the carrier erythrocytes had a smaller cell volume and were more susceptible to hemolysis than normal erythrocytes. Morphologic studies by electron microscopy indicated that extensive morphologic changes occurred during the procedures after hypotonic dialysis, isotonicity adjustment, and resealing were completed. Differences were noted between those cells that were only resealed and those cells that were also subjected to annealing. The morphologic characteristics of most of the cells were restored to the “normal” morphologic appearance only after annealing. Annealed erythrocytes' in vivo survivability was correlated with the physical properties of these cells.
Unraveling the determinants of protrusion formation.

A computerized morphometric classification technique based on latent factors reveals major protrusion classes: factors 4, 5, and 7. Previous work showed that factor 4 represented filopodia, 5 the distribution of lamellar cytoplasm, and 7 a blunt protrusion. We explore the relationship of focal contact (FC) characteristics and their integrated actin cables to factors values. The results show that FC maturation/cytoskeletal integration affects factor 5, because FC elongation/integration was correlated with its values. On the contrary, 7 values decreased with maturation, so cable or FC size or their integration must be restricted to form these protrusions. Where integration did occur, the cables showed distinctive size and orientation, as indicated by correlation of 7 values with FC shape. Results obtained with myosin inhibitors support the interpretation that a central, isometric, contractile network puts constraints on both factor 5 and 7 protrusions. We conclude that cells establish functional domains by rearranging the cytoskeleton.
TH-SAMS-332-02: ACR CT Accreditation Overview

The American College of Radiology CT accreditation program was launched in 2002. It has approximately 3320 active units and is growing daily. All sites that apply for CT accreditation receive a testing packet with the necessary paperwork and labels required for their testingmaterial submission. CT accreditation involves the submission of clinical and phantom images. Qualified radiologists and medical physicists review all submissions. The medical physicist plays a vital role in the achievement of ACR accreditation. A team approach involving the supervising physician, lead technologist and medical physicist is necessary to ensure that all information is accurate and appropriate for ACR accreditation submission. For sites with filming capability, the phantom testingimages are submitted on hard copy film. As more and more sites become film‐less, the need for electronic submission of phantom testingmaterial has increased. Sites that have no filming capability can call the ACR and receive permission and instructions for submitting the CT phantom images electronically. Electronic phantom submission is currently a pilot program as the ACR actively works to define the process. Educational Objectives: 1. Understand the basic materials and process of ACR CT accreditation. 2. Understand the importance of a “team approach” in achievement of ACR accreditation. 3. Understand the process of electronic submission of the CT phantom images.
(E)-5-[2-(methoxycarbonyl)ethenyl]cytidine as a chemical actinometer for germicidal UV radiation.

(E)-5-[2-(Methoxycarbonyl)ethenyl]cytidine (S) was examined for use as a chemical actinometer for germicidal UV radiation. Its photoproduct, 3-β-d-ribofuranosyl-2,7-dioxopyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine (P), is strongly fluorescent with excitation and emission maxima at 330 and 385 nm, respectively. Experiments were conducted to characterize the dynamic behavior of aqueous solutions of S and P when subjected to UV radiation. UV sources used for these experiments included a low-pressure mercury lamp, a XeBr excimer lamp, and a KrCl excimer lamp; all three sources were mounted in collimating devices to provide incident beams that could be easily and accurately characterized by radiometry. These three sources each yielded essentially monochromatic output with characteristic wavelengths of 254, 282, and 222 nm, respectively. At practical concentrations, it was found that the absorbance of the actinometer solution was neither high enough to make the actinometer solutions optically opaque nor low enough to be optically ...
Ecumenical Connections across Time: Medieval Franciscans as a Proto-Pentecostal Movement?

Abstract In the long course of Christian history there have been many expressions of the action of the Holy Spirit in renewing the Christian Church through a variety of renewal movements. Two such movements are the twentieth-century Pentecostal movement and the thirteenth-century Franciscan movement. While there is no specific historical link one with the other, there are resources in the older movement, with its concern for direct human experience of Christ, its return to biblical poverty, a hope of renewing the church by a restoration of biblical holiness, its experience of gradually integrating its radical view of the end of time with the institutional church, and its impulsive missionary outreach, that offer many lessons for the newer movement as it serves worldwide Christianity.
Profit-Maximizing Matchmaker

Abstract This paper considers a resource allocation mechanism that utilizes a profit-maximizing auctioneer/matchmaker in the Kelso–Crawford ( 1982 ) (many-to-one) assignment problem. We consider general and simple (individualized price) message spaces for firmsʼ reports following Milgrom (2010) . We show that in the simple message space, (i) the matchmakerʼs profit is always zero and an acceptable assignment is achieved in every Nash equilibrium, and (ii) the sets of stable assignments and strong Nash equilibria are equivalent. By contrast, in the general message space, the matchmaker may make a positive profit in a Nash equilibrium. This shows that restricting message space not only reduces the information requirement but also improves resource allocation.
A Peer Assertiveness-Training Program.

The demand for assertiveness-training groups and the effective use of paraprofessionals in skills training were influential factors in the authors' decision to develop a peer assertiveness-training program. This program extends the availability of assertiveness training to students through the use of paraprofessionals as group leaders. This article describes a format for developing a peer assertiveness-training program and is based on the authors' experience conducting this program during the 1977–78 academic year at Pennsylvania State University.
Altered Expression of Connective Tissue Genes in Postnatal Chondroinduced Human Dermal Fibroblasts

In a novel model for postnatal chondroinduction, normal human dermal fibroblasts (hDFs) cultured with demineralized bone powder (DBP) express chondrocyte features after 7 days. Representational difference analysis (RDA) prior to overt chondroblastogenesis (3 days) revealed altered expression of connective tissue genes (collagens, collagen receptors, and post-translational enzymes). Northern or RT-PCR analysis at 3, 7, 14, or 21 d showed different expression patterns for those genes. COL3A1 was transiently upregulated, whereas upregulation of COL11A1, integrin &#102 -11, lysyl oxidase, and lysyl hydroxylase 2 mRNAs persisted for 7 days. Downregulation of decorin was sustained for 21 d. The expression of the post-translational enzymes induced by DBP was unique when compared with human skin and human articular chondrocytes. Thus, the data suggest an "induced chondroblast" stage with a unique connective tissue gene expression profile that may result in a matrix supportive of chondrogenesis by postnatal cells.
MICROINCINERATION, ELECTRON MICROSCOPY, AND ELECTRON DIFFRACTION OF CALCIUM PHOSPHATE-LOADED MITOCHONDRIA

Isolated rat liver mitochondria were incubated in vitro under conditions supporting the massive accumulation of calcium and phosphate. Samples were embedded, thin sectioned, and examined in the electron microscope. The intramitochondrial distribution of insoluble or structure-bound mineral substances was studied by electron microscopy coupled with recently developed techniques of high resolution microincineration. As shown previously, the ion-loaded mitochondria acquire large, internal granules which have inherent electron opacity indicative of high mineral content. Study of ash patterns in preselected areas of sections directly confirmed the high mineral content of the granules, and the appearance of the residues was consistent with the copresence in the granules of some organic material. Other mitochondrial structures were almost devoid of mineral. Thin sections of unincubated control mitochondria also were incinerated. They were found to contain appreciable amounts of intrinsic mineral, seemingly associated with membranes. The normal, dense matrix granules commonly seen in unaltered mitochondria could be seen in intact sections of these control preparations, but after burning no definite correspondence of any ash to the granules could be demonstrated. The normal granules perhaps do not contain mineral. Heating experiments on ash patterns of all the preparations demonstrated the thermal stability and crystallizability of the ash. The crystallized ash of the in vitro-produced dense granules was tentatively shown by electron diffraction to be β-tricalcium phosphate (whitlockite). This, together with evidence from the literature, suggests that the original, noncrystalline mineral may be a colloidal, subcrystalline precursor of calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite. Experiments were performed on synthetic calcium phosphates for comparison. Other possible applications of the microincineration techniques are briefly discussed.
Validation of the Gail et al. Model for Predicting Individual Breast Cancer Risk

Background The Gail et al. model is considered the best available means for estimating an individual woman's risk of developing breast cancer. Such estimates are useful in decision making on the part of women, in designing prevention trials, and in targeting screening and prevention efforts. Purpose Our purpose was to evaluate the ability of the model to accurately predict individual breast cancer risk, using a large population independent of the one from which the model was derived. Methods We compared the number of cancer cases predicted by the model to the actual number of cases observed in the Nurses' Health Study. The study population was 115,172 women who did not have breast cancer at the beginning of the study. Questionnaires were sent to participants every 2 years, seeking data on risk factors and diagnoses of breast cancer. Follow-up compliance was 95% over the 12-year study period. Results The model over-predicted absolute breast cancer risk by 33% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 28%-39%), with the overprediction more than twofold among premenopausal women (95% CI = 1.9-2.2), among women with extensive family history of breast cancer (95% CI = 1.1-3.9), and among women with age at first birth younger than 20 years (95% CI = 1.3-4.7). The correlation coefficient between observed and predicted risk was 0.67, indicating that the model is less than satisfactory for ranking individual levels of breast cancer risk. Overprediction occurred at all deciles of predicted risk. Conclusions The model's performance is unsatisfactory for estimating breast cancer risk for individual women aged 25-61 years who do not participate in annual screening. Lower mammography screening rates in the Nurses' Health Study may account for some, but not all, of the discrepancy between observed and predicted cases. Implications A recent modification of the model by the tamoxifen trial investigators is likely to have provided accurate power calculations. This modified form of the model should be useful for planning other large, population-based studies.
A decision-directed approach for prioritizing research into the impact of nanomaterials on the environment and human health

Multi-criteria decision analysis and a value of information approach are used to develop a model for prioritizing research strategies into the environmental and human-health aspects of nanotechnology.
Effect of additive dither on the resolution of ADC's with single-bit or multibit errors

The topic of this paper is to investigate the effects of additive dither on nonideal ADC's, i.e., ADC's with nonlinearity errors. To that end, the nonideal ADC transfer characteristics are considered as a superposition of the ideal characteristics plus nonlinearity errors. First, the factor "D" developed previously to assess the deviation of the transfer characteristics from the unity-gain line, is revisited. The nonlinearity spectra of the ideal quantization error function are then rederived using the appropriate scale factor. Second,"D" is derived for an ADC with an error in any single bit. Some example dither forms, i.e., with various probability density functions (PDF's) are considered. Effects of dither for different error levels and bit orders are investigated, and the added resolution is computed. Third, the paper investigates the effects of dither on ADC's with errors in more than one bit. The deviation factor "D" is derived, which makes it possible to compute the added resolution. The paper thus presents, for the first time, a novel technique for quantifying the performance of ADC's with multibit errors, in the presence of added dither.
Evaluation of Patients With Suspected Acute Pulmonary Embolism: Best Practice Advice From the Clinical Guidelines Committee of the American College of Physicians

Testing patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism has risen drastically. However, overuse of some tests may not improve care and may lead to patient harm and unnecessary expense. This Best P...
Assimilation of scatterometer winds into surface pressure fields using a variational method

A variational formulation was used to assimilate Seasat-A scatterometer (SASS) surface wind measurements near and during a severe storm in the North Atlantic into conventional National Meteorological Center sea level pressure fields. An estimate of the relative vorticity at every point on a grid was calculated using each of these two data sets. A solution to a modified geostrophic stream function is found subject to the constraints that (1) the relative vorticities calculated from the data agree as closely as possible with the relative vorticities from the variational solution, and that (2) the average kinetic energy is a minimum. Results are obtained which support the idea that averaged satellite data can be treated as synoptic data. Direct substitution rather than a time-weighted insertion made from SASS winds generally resulted in more accurate pressure analyses. In addition, this relatively simple model provides surface pressure fields which agree extremely well with surface truth and the results of other investigators who required additional sources of input data into more complex models. It will be possible to obtain improved wind field maps from future scatterometer pressure fields in mid-latitudes.
Growth inhibition of androgen-responsive prostate cancer cells with brefeldin A targeting cell cycle and androgen receptor

Androgen ablation is one of the viable therapeutic options for patients with primary hormone (androgen)-dependent prostate cancer. However, an antibiotic brefeldin A (BFA) has been shown to exhibit the growth inhibitory effect on human cancer cells. We thus investigated if BFA might inhibit proliferation of androgen-responsive prostate cancer LNCaP cells and also explored how it would be carried out, focusing on cell cycle and androgen receptor (AR). Androgen-mediated cellular events in LNCaP cells were induced using 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) as an androgenic mediator. Effects of BFA on non-DHT-stimulated or DHT-stimulated cell growth were assessed. Its growth inhibitory mechanism(s) was further explored; performing cell cycle analysis on a flow cytometer, assessing AR activity by AR binding assay, and analyzing AR protein expression using Western blot analysis. DHT (1 nM) was capable of stimulating LNCaP cell growth by ~40% greater than non-stimulated controls, whereas BFA (30 ng/ml) completely inhibited such DHT-stimulated proliferation. Cell cycle analysis showed that this BFA-induced growth inhibition was associated with a ~75% reduction in the cell number in the S phase and a concomitant increase in the G1 cell number, indicating a G1 cell cycle arrest. This was further confirmed by the modulations of specific cell cycle regulators (CDK2, CDK4, cyclin D1, and p21WAF1), revealed by Western blots. In addition, the growth inhibition induced by BFA was accompanied by a profound (~90%) loss in AR activity, which would be presumably attributed to the significantly reduced cellular AR protein level. This study demonstrates that BFA has a potent growth inhibitory activity, capable of completely inhibiting DHT (androgen)-stimulated LNCaP proliferation. Such inhibitory action of BFA appears to target cell cycle and AR: BFA led to a G1 cell cycle arrest and the down-regulation of AR activity/expression, possibly accounting for its primary growth inhibitory mechanism. Thus, it is conceivable that BFA may provide a more effective therapeutic modality for patients with hormone-dependent prostate cancer.
Cell-to-cell contact is critical for the survival of hematopoietic progenitor cells on osteoblasts

Osteoblasts constitute part of the stromal cell support system in marrow for hematopoiesis, however little is known as to how they interact with hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). In vitro studies have demonstrated that the survival of HSCs in co-culture with osteoblasts requires intimate cell-to-cell contact. This suggests that the osteoblast-derived factor(s) that supports stem cell activities are produced in very small quantities, are rapidly turned over, may be membrane-anchored and/or require the engagement of cell-cell adhesion molecules that are yet to be determined. In the present report we found that the survival of hematopoietic progenitor cells on osteoblasts is dependent upon the engagement of VLA-4 (alpha4beta1) and VLA-5 (alpha5beta1) receptors using function blocking antibodies. Cell-to-cell contact is required to support progenitor activity, but can be replaced if receptor-ligand engagement of the VLA-4 and LFA-1 complexes is provided through the use of recombinant ligands (fibronectin, ICAM-1, VCAM-1). Moreover, once these receptors were engaged, conditioned medium derived from HSCs grown on osteoblast ligands supported significantly greater hematopoietic progenitors in vitro than did osteoblast-conditioned or HSC-conditioned medium alone. While the molecules present in the co-cultured medium remain to be identified, the data suggest that hematopoietic cells cooperate with osteoblasts to assemble the various marrow microenvironments by directing the synthesis of osteoblast-derived cytokines to improve HSC survival.
Facility Size, Race and Ethnicity, and Mortality for In-Center Hemodialysis

The association between dialysis facility size and mortality for patients undergoing hemodialysis remains largely unclear, and whether the relationship differs by race and ethnicity or among high-risk subgroups is not known. Using data from the USRDS, we analyzed mortality rates in 385,074 incident patients ages≥18 years who received in-center hemodialysis at 4633 dialysis facilities between 2003 and 2009. Facilities were categorized by the number of hemodialysis stations (1–5, 6–10, 11–15, 16–20, 21–25, 26–30, 31–35, 36–45, 46–60, and ≥61 stations). We found significantly higher mortality associated with facilities comprising ≤15 stations, and within this group, mortality increased as the number of stations decreased. The association with increased mortality was weaker for facilities with 16–30 stations, but >30 stations offered no additional survival benefit. The association between increased mortality and facilities with ≤15 stations was stronger for racial minorities and patients with diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. After adjustments, blacks had a 78% greater 1-year mortality risk in facilities with one to five stations, whereas whites had only a 26% greater risk. Notably, other patient-related events remained comparable across the categories assessed. In summary, these data suggest that hemodialysis care at small facilities associates with a significant increase in mortality that is only partially explained by measured patient case mix, other well defined facility characteristics, and geographic region. Future studies should investigate differences in processes of care and practices among hemodialysis facilities of different sizes.
Stability of two-dimensional discrete systems with periodic coefficients

Two-dimensional (2-D) discrete systems with periodic coefficients are considered for stability. These systems are called periodically shift variant (PSV) digital filters and have many applications in signal processing that include the filtering of 2-D signals with cyclostationary noise, scrambling of digital images, and implementation of multirate filter banks. In this paper, the filters are formulated in the form of the well known Fornasini-Marchesini state-space model with periodic coefficients. This PSV model is then studied for stability. Two sufficient conditions and one necessary condition are established for asymptotic stability. Some examples are given to illustrate the results.
Quasiconvex sum-of-squares programming

A sum-of-squares program is an optimization problem with polynomial sum-of-squares constraints. The constraints and the objective function are affine in the decision variables. This paper introduces a generalized sum-of-squares programming problem. This generalization allows one decision variable to enter bilinearly in the constraints. The bilinear decision variable enters the constraints in a particular structured way. The objective function is the single bilinear decision variable. It is proved that this formulation is quasiconvex and hence the global optima can be computed via bisection. Many nonlinear analysis problems can be posed within this framework and two examples are provided.
Transcriptional regulation of early oogenesis: in search of masters

Transcription factors in the germline play important roles in ovary formation and folliculogenesis, and control both oocyte development and somatic cell function. Factor in the germline (Figla) and newborn ovary homeobox gene (Nobox) represent a growing number of oocyte-specific transcription factors that regulate genes unique to oocytes. Studies on oocyte-specific transcription factors are important in understanding the genetic pathways essential for oogenesis, pluripotency, and embryonic development. Likely, these genes regulate reproductive life span and represent candidate genes for reproductive disorders, such as premature ovarian failure, and infertility. Therefore, oocyte-specific transcription factors, and oocyte-specific genes regulated by such factors, are attractive tissue-specific pharmacological targets to regulate human fertility.
Fast fluxes with supercritical solvents

Measurements of iodine dissolution rates in supercritical carbon dioxide and other supercritical fluids show when the iodine flux in these systems can be made fast. For these systems, the dominant factor in achieving this fast flux is the solubility; increases in diffusion coefficient have less effect. An approximate guide for estimating these fluxes is developed and compared with the experimental results.
Hydrologic balance in an intact temperate forest ecosystem under ambient and elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration

Abstract Increasing atmospheric CO2 concentration decreases stomatal conductance in many species, but the savings of water from reduced transpiration may permit the forest to retain greater leaf area index (L). Therefore, the net effect on water use in forest ecosystems under a higher CO2 atmosphere is difficult to predict. The free air CO2 enrichment (FACE) facility (n = 3) in a 14-m tall (in 1996) Pinus taeda L. stand was designed to reduce uncertainties in predicting such responses. Continuous measurements of precipitation, throughfall precipitation, sap flux, and soil moisture were made over 3.5 years under ambient (CO2a) and elevated (CO2e) ambient + 200 µmol mol−1). Annual stand transpiration under ambient CO2 conditions accounted for 84–96% of latent heat flux measured with the eddy-covariance technique above the canopy. Under CO2e, P. taeda transpired less per unit of leaf area only when soil drought was severe. Liquidambar styraciflua, the other major species in the forest, used progressively less water, settling at 25% reduction in sap flux density after 3.5 years under CO2e. Because P. taeda dominated the stand, and severe drought periods were of relatively short duration, the direct impact of CO2e on water savings in the stand was undetectable. Moreover, the forest used progressively more water under CO2e, probably because soil moisture availability progressively increased, probably owing to a reduction in soil evaporation caused by more litter buildup in the CO2e plots. The results suggest that, in this forest, the effect of CO2e on transpiration was greater indirectly through enhanced litter production than directly through reduced stomatal conductance. In forests composed of species more similar to L. styraciflua, water savings from stomatal closure may dominate the response to CO2e.
A Limpet‐Coralline Alga Association: Adaptations and Defenses Between a Selective Herbivore and its Prey

The population density of the limpet Acmaea testudinalis is highest on the crustose coralline alga Clathromorphum circumscriptum in both tide pool and subtidal environments in the Gulf of Maine. Juvenile limpets recruit to C. circumscriptum and both juveniles and adults preferentially feed on this species (not its epibionts) over a choice of other corallines, foliose algae, microalgae (diatoms), and detritus. Abundances of the predator (limpet) and the prey (coralline) are positively correlated, and the fitness of both organisms may be increased by the association. Acmaea testudinalis possesses a radula apparently adapted to eat efficiently C. circumscriptum, a food of low caloric value. The coralline is not only an abundant and dependable food throughout the geographic range of the limpet but also provides a superior holding surface for it. Clathromorphum circumscriptum requires grazing to remove potentially lethal epiphytes, but is not harmed by limpet grazing since it possesses a uniquely thick protective tissue over the region of growth. Reproductive structures of C. circumscriptum develop in winter and are buried below the surface so the effects of grazing on them are minimal. Over a wide range of depths, the rate of cell removal by limpets matches the rate of cell production by Clathromorphum. The number of apparently specific adaptations of both organisms, with mutual advantages, suggests evolution toward a coevolved interdependency. Trophic specialization of small organisms with low mobility (limpets) on larger, longer lived prey (coralline algae and kelps) is more likely than in other herbivore/prey interactions. By specializing on a long—lived and predictable food source, A. testudinalis may have evolved a strategy of economy by minimizing its cost of foraging (risk to predation and energy expenditure) relative to its absolute intake of calories. This foraging strategy may have been reinforced over time since it also improves the survivorship of the preferred prey.
A channelized hotelling trace collimator design method based on reconstruction rather than projections

In this study a new SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography) collimator design technique is investigated. In this feasibility study, the collimator hole size is the only design variable changed. Other collimator parameters are fixed to a low-energy-high-resolution (LEHR) design. The design is based on a task of imaging a small hot lesion with a uniform background. A channelized hotelling trace (CHT) is used to quantify the lesion detectability in a reconstructed image for a particular collimator parameter. The unique feature of this development is that the image quality is not evaluated for planar projection data, but rather is evaluated for the reconstructed tomographic image with an OS-EM (ordered-subset expectation-maximization) reconstruction algorithm. Our results suggest that a collimator hole size that is larger than the LEHR collimator hole size is preferable for lesion detection. This implies that the parameter that gives the optimal lesion detectability on the planar projections may not give the optimal lesion detectability in the reconstructed image. In SPECT, the optimal collimator design should be reconstruction algorithm dependent.
The composite effect for inverted faces is reliable at large sample sizes and requires the basic face configuration.

Abstract The absence of the face composite effect (FCE) for inverted faces is often considered evidence that holistic processing operates only on upright faces. However, such absence might be explained by power issues: Most studies that have failed to find the inverted FCE tested 24 participants or less. Here we find that the inverted FCE exists reliably when we tested at least 60 participants. The inverted FCE was ∼ 18% the size of the upright FCE, and it was unaffected by testing order: It did not matter whether participants did the upright condition first (Experiment 1, n = 64) or the inverted condition first (Experiment 2, n = 68). The effect also remained when upright and inverted trials were mixed (Experiment 3, n = 60). An individual differences analysis found a modest positive correlation between inverted and upright FCE, suggesting partially shared mechanisms. A critical control experiment demonstrates that the inverted FCE cannot be explained by visuospatial attention or other generic accounts because the effect disappeared when the basic face configuration was disrupted (Experiment 4, n = 50). Our study shows that the inverted FCE is a reliable effect that requires an intact face configuration, consistent with the notion that some holistic processing also operates on inverted faces.
The Right to Be Forgotten: A Comparative Analysis

Before the Internet, people could make mistakes without the fear of being haunted by them in the future. Embarrassing information was usually contained in one’s community and typically forgotten over time. At the extreme, one could always move to a new neighborhood or find a new job in order to start fresh. In today’s Internet age, however, it is no longer easy to escape one’s past when personal information can go viral in a matter of minutes, search results retain old information, and more data gets stored in the cloud. This is particularly troubling for children who may not understand the long-term repercussions of a simple action like posting a photograph. Employers now regularly monitor employees’ and potential hires’ online reputations, so not only can a single photo result in extreme embarrassment, it can also affect them in the future as they attempt to enter the workforce Europe has recently attempted to respond to this growing concern among its citizens by updating its current data privacy regulations to include the proposed “right to be forgotten.” As currently written, this right would face many First Amendment challenges if extended to the United States. Despite many critics' concerns over free speech, however, the “right to be forgotten” need not apply in a broad sweeping manner. Freedom of expression can be fairly balanced with individuals’ privacy concerns in order to implement a version of the “right to be forgotten” in certain situations within the United States.