cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 3443: Wnt-beta-catenin-Rac1 signaling axis regulates metastasis-associated phenotypes in TNBC

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Background: RAC1-GTPase controls many cellular phenotypes including integrin-directed migration via its control over the actin-cytoskeleton. We and others have established the upregulation of Wnt-beta-catenin pathway (WP) in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer (Dey et al., 2013, BMC Cancer; Dey et al., 2013, PLOS ONE). Here we report for the first time that metastasis-associated phenotypes in TNBC are controlled by Wnt-beta-catenin-RAC1signaling axis. Methodology: The involvement of WP was tested using (1) WP modulators (CHIR99021, Wnt-C59, XAV939), (2) sulindac sulfide and (3) beta-catenin SiRNA. We studied metastasis-associated phenotypes including, (1) proliferation (CelltiterGLO) (2) clonogenic growth (3D On-TOP assay) (3) fibronectin-directed migration (4) matrigel invasion (5) vascular mimicry (6) actin dynamics (confocal-microscopy and podia-parameters) (7) protein expression (WB) (8) real-time imaging for migration and vascular mimicry and (9) adhesion in the context of RAC1 activation in a panel of 3-4 TNBC cell lines. Results: Sulindac sulfide as well as transient transfection of beta-catenin SiRNA (1) decreased cellular levels of beta-catenin, inhibited proliferation, attenuated metastasis-associated different phenotypes and blocked fibronectin-mediated RAC1 as well as Cdc42 activities and (2) altered actin dynamics and inhibited podia-parameters (lamellopodia and fillopodia). Both Wnt-antagonists and RAC1 inhibitor (NSC23766) blocked fibronectin-induced RAC1 activation and inhibited the metastasis-associated phenotypes, while Wnt-activator enhanced phenotypes like vascular mimicry. Conclusion: Results of our experiments show that upregulation of WP regulates metastasis-associated phenotypes in TNBC via activation of RAC1 GTP-ase. The functional link between WP, metastasis and the activation of RAC1 is being currently worked out using RAC1SiRNA and pharmacological inhibitor of RAC1 in brain metastasizing MDA-MB231BR cells to specifically address the role of Wnt-beta-catenin-RAC1 signaling axis in the context of distant metastasis, the results of which will be presented at the meeting. Citation Format: Nandini Dey, Jennifer Carlson, Pradip De, Brian Leyland-Jones. Wnt-beta-catenin-Rac1 signaling axis regulates metastasis-associated phenotypes in TNBC. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 3443. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-3443
AN OVERVIEW OF LARDIZABALACEAE

Morphology. Most Lardizabalaceae are woody vines forming dense mats covering other plants, frequently climbing into the canopy of trees. Only Decaisnea are erect shrubs. Stems are usually covered in lenticels. The wood anatomy of Lardizabalaceae is unique in having very wide pith surrounded by a ring of vascular bundles, separated by wide intervascular rays. Decaisnea has long vessel elements and scalariform pitting on lateral walls and vessels with scalariform perforation plates. The vines have comparatively short and wide vessel elements with elliptic alternate pitting and vessels with simple perforation plates. Reduced short shoots are common in the East Asian taxa, but absent in the South American ones. Leaves are alternate or fasciculate on short shoots, usually palmately compound (imparipinnate in Decaisnea, biternate in Lardizabala), without stipules. Inflorescences are always axillary racemes or derived from that. Usually they emerge together with the leaves from short shoots on old growth. Typical simple racemes are found in Akebia, Lardizabala, Sinofranchetia and Stauntonia, usually with the larger female flowers at the base of the inflorescence. When the basal pedicels are elongated, corymbose racemes are formed, which are common in Stauntonia. When the racemes are branched, panicles are formed, and these are common in Decaisnea and some Japanese forms of Akebia quinata. Umbels are formed in Boquila, and through a
Device considerations for high current, low voltage synchronous buck regulators (SBR)

How efficient a processor power supply operates is determined by several factors: PCB layout, inductor design, and device switching performance. The low threshold voltage and low Rds(on) MOSFET introduces a new challenge in designing an efficient power regulator. Within this paper, we will review the MOSFET's conduction and switching behavior in a high current environment. With a clear understanding of device operations, designers can better combat the potential problems associated with low power MOSFET technology. We will examine which parameters that need focus and what are the tradeoffs in order to minimize the power dissipation of the MOSFETs.
Microdevice integrating innate and adaptive immune responses associated with antigen presentation by dendritic cells.

Dendritic cells are the principal antigen presenting cells that are responsible for acquiring and transporting antigen from the peripheral tissue to the secondary lymphoid tissue. There they present it to T cells which ultimately initiate an antigen specific immune response. In vivo, the migration of dendritic cells (DCs) and T cell activation are intimately linked. However, ex vivo systems that facilitate integrated evaluation of DC chemotaxis and resulting T cell activation by migrated DCs are lacking. In this work, we have developed a microfabricated platform that integrates DC chemotaxis with T cell activation. The basic design of the microdevice includes two layers of PDMS, with the top layer comprising the chemotaxis compartment and the bottom layer containing a T cell compartment. In the chemotaxis compartment, the DCs are subjected to a chemokine gradient, and their migratory response is evaluated. In the T cell compartment, rapid DC-induced activation of T cells is evaluated by measuring the level of calcium in T cells. We demonstrate the efficacy of our approach by evaluating the integrated response of mature DCs, whereby the overall T cell activation response is governed both by the chemotaxis and the T cell activation potential of mature DCs relative to immature DCs. Our system provides a powerful platform for systematically probing various aspects of antigen induced immune responses – DC maturation, migration and T cell activation – in an integrated fashion.
Dietary Supplementation with Ethyl Ester Concentrates of Fish Oil (n-3) and Borage Oil (n-6) Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Induces Epidermal Generation of Local Putative Anti-Inflammatory Metabolites

Clinical reports have attributed the amelioration of chronic inflammatory skin disorders to the presence of certain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in dietary oils. To test the hypothesis of a local modulatory effect of these PUFA in the epidermis, the basal diet of normal guinea pigs was supplemented with ethyl esters of either fish oil [rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)] or borage oi1 [rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)]. Our data demonstrated that dietary oils influence the distribution of PUFA in epidermal phospholipids and the epidermal levels of PUFA-derived hydroxy fatty acids. Specifically, animals supplemented with ethyl esters of fish oil markedly incorporated EPA and DHA into epidermal phospholipids, which paralleled the epidermal accumulation of 1 5-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid (15-HEPE) and 17-hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (17-HDoHE). Similarly, animals supplemented with esters of borage oil preferentially incorporated dihomogammalinolenic acid (DGLA), the epidermal elongase product of GLA, into the epidermal phospholipids, which also was ac- companied by epidermal accumulation of 15-hydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (15-HETrE). By factoring the epidermal levels of the 15-lipoxygenase products and their relative inhibitory potencies, we evolved a measure of the overall potential of dietary oils to exert local anti-inflammatory effect. For example, the leukotriene inhibition potentials (LIP) of both fish oil and borage oil were greatly enhanced when compared to controls. Thus, the altered profiles of epidermal 15-lipoxygenase products generated from particular dietary oils may be responsible, at least in part, for reported ameliorative effects of oils on chronic inflammatory skin disorders.
Young children's acquisition of wh-questions: the role of structured input.

Two-year-olds learn language quickly but how they exploit adult input remains obscure. Twenty-nine children aged 2; 6 to 3; 2, divided into three treatment groups, participated in an intervention experiment consisting of four sessions I week apart. Pre- and post-intervention sessions were identical for all children: children heard a wh-question and attempted to repeat it; a 'talking bear' answered. That same format was used for the two intervention sessions for children in a quasicontrol condition (Group QC). Children receiving modelling (Group M) heard a question twice before repeating it; those receiving implicit correction (Group I C) heard a question, attempted to repeat it, and heard it again. All groups improved in supplying and inverting an auxiliary for target questions with trained auxiliaries. Only experimental children generalized to auxiliaries on which they had not been trained. Very little input, if concentrated but varied, and presented so that the child attends to it and
Age at onset of Alzheimer's disease. Relation to language dysfunction.

• A later age at onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD) was found to be related to diminished language performance in 86 patients with probable AD. A hierarchical linear model was constructed to assess effects of age at onset and disease duration on the performance of patients with AD on four language tasks (naming, reading, auditory comprehension, and writing to dictation) after controlling for disease severity. Results of univariate analysis, in which the dependent variable was the averaged language task performances, revealed a significant effect for age at onset of AD, but not for disease duration. To assess the possibility that the relationship between the age at onset of AD and language performance reflects effects of normal aging, the language tasks were given to 33 normal subjects of similar ages who scored perfectly on dementia severity measures. A convincing relationship was not found between test score and age.
New insights into mid-ocean ridge volcanic processes from the 2005–2006 eruption of the East Pacific Rise, 9°46′N–9°56′N

Digital seafloor imagery collected on 37 camera tows and Alvin dives, in which we identify 186 contacts between new and old lava, are used to create the most detailed map of a mid-ocean ridge (MOR) eruption to date. Lava flows erupted in 2005–2006 at the East Pacific Rise (EPR) covered an area of 14.6 km2 along ∼18 km of the EPR crest between 9°46′ and 9°56′N. The 2005–2006 lava is characterized by inflated lobate and sheet morphologies in the flow interiors and pillow forms at terminal flow fronts. Numerous lava channels ∼10–50 m wide and 1–5 m deep trending approximately east-west served as distributory pathways. Eruptions were sourced from fissures within the EPR axial summit trough as well as fissures located on an off-axis fissure mound ∼600 m east of the EPR axis between 9°52′ and 9°56′N. Portions of the lava flow reached as far as ∼2 km east of the axis near 9°51.2′N. Using a conservative estimate of 1.5 m for the average flow thickness implies that the 2005–2006 eruptions produced ∼22 × 106 m3 of lava, 4–5 times larger than estimated volumes of 1991–1992 EPR lava flows. Estimated lava volume for the 2005–2006 eruptions represents <15% of the magma available in the axial magma chamber.
Robotic Management of Benign Mid and Distal Ureteral Strictures and Comparison With Laparoscopic Approaches at a Single Institution

Objective To present our experience and outcomes with robotic mid and distal ureteral reconstruction and to compare these results with our previous laparoscopic series. Methods In an institutional review board-approved retrospective study, 16 patients underwent robotic mid and distal ureteral repair (13 ureteral reimplantations and 3 ureteroureterostomies) at our institution from August 2008 to September 2011. Proximal ureteral stricture, extrinsic obstruction, and ureteropelvic junction obstruction cases were excluded. The demographic, perioperative, and postoperative data were reviewed in the reimplantation and ureteroureterostomy robotic groups. These data were compared with the outcomes from our previously published series on laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation. Results The data from 16 robotic procedures were included in the present study, including 2 open conversions because of excessive scar tissue. A symptomatic bowel injury (Clavien grade IIIb) occurred in 1 case. In our previous series, 5 of the 6 laparoscopic procedures were performed completely laparoscopically with 1 open conversion for anastomosis completion. No major complications occurred. The mean robotic surgery time was 258.6 minutes (range 146-450) compared with 276.5 minutes (range 180-360) for the laparoscopic group. The mean robotic hospital stay was 2.5 days (range 1-8) compared with 2.7 days (range 2-5) for the laparoscopic group. The mean robotic estimated blood loss was 171 mL (range 30-500) compared with 150 mL (range 50-250) for the laparoscopic group. All cases were clinically and radiographically successful at the last follow-up examination. Conclusion Although early in our experience, the robotic repair of mid and distal ureteral strictures appears to be an efficacious approach comparable to laparoscopy for such conditions.
Stochastic response of offshore towers to random sea waves and strong motion earthquakes

Abstract Presented is a stochastic method of analysis of offshore towers subjected separately to random sea waves and to strong motion earthquakes. The Pierson-Moskowitz wave height spectrum is used along with linear wave theory to define a stationary random sea state as caused by wind generated surface waves. A zero mean ergodic Gaussian process of finite duration is used to characterize horizontal ground acceleration caused by strong motion earthquakes. For each type of loading, full fluid structure interaction effects are included in stochastic analysis. Numerical results for 4 representative deep water towers having heights of 475, 675, 875 and 1,075 feet are presented. Particular emphasis is placed on the maximum or extreme values of total transverse shear and total overturning moment versus elevation above the base of each tower. The results of the earthquake analysis are compared with corresponding design code values and the role of ductility is briefly discussed.
Quantification of the length and diameter of root segments with public domain software

Abstract Roots control the uptake of water and nutrients by plants, and hence their dry matter production. One of the greatest constraints to our understanding of root dynamics has been the laborious tedium associated with accurate measurements of various root parameters. A technique is presented for the fast and accurate measurement of the length and diameter of all fragments of corn (Zea mays L.) roots contained in most 0.04 by 0.15 m soil cores by analyzing a single NIH‐Image of those roots. These parameters are determined by measuring the perimeter and area of each root fragment utilizing NIH‐Image analyses contained in a public domain software (NIH‐Image). When length and diameter are coupled with nutrient uptake data, we will have a better understanding of where plants extract nutrients and water in space and time.
Micronutrient quality of weight-loss diets that focus on macronutrients: results from the A TO Z study

Background: Information on the micronutrient quality of alternative weight-loss diets is limited, despite the significant public health relevance. Objective: Micronutrient intake was compared between overweight or obese women randomly assigned to 4 popular diets that varied primarily in macronutrient distribution. Design: Dietary data were collected from women in the Atkins (n = 73), Zone (n = 73), LEARN (Lifestyle, Exercise, Attitudes, Relationships, Nutrition) (n = 73), and Ornish (n = 72) diet groups by using 3-d, unannounced 24-h recalls at baseline and after 8 wk of instruction. Nutrient intakes were compared between groups at 8 wk and within groups for 8-wk changes in risk of micronutrient inadequacy. Results: At 8 wk, significant differences were observed between groups for all macronutrients and for many micronutrients (P < 0.0001). Energy intake decreased from baseline in all 4 groups but was similar between groups. At 8 wk, a significant proportion of individuals shifted to intakes associated with risk of inadequacy (P < 0.05) in the Atkins group for thiamine, folic acid, vitamin C, iron, and magnesium; in the LEARN group for vitamin E, thiamine, and magnesium; and in the Ornish group for vitamins E and B-12 and zinc. In contrast, for the Zone group, the risk of inadequacy significantly decreased for vitamins A, E, K, and C (P < 0.05), and no significant increases in risk of inadequacy were observed for other micronutrients. Conclusions: Weight-loss diets that focus on macronutrient composition should attend to the overall quality of the diet, including the adequacy of micronutrient intakes. Concerning calorie-restricted diets, there may be a micronutrient advantage to diets providing moderately low carbohydrate amounts and that contain nutrient-dense foods.
The Effect of the Consumption of Red Kidney Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) on the Growth of Rats and the Implications for Human Populations

Raw Red Kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) at a level as low as 1% of diet have been shown to cause death in rats in two weeks. Beans cooked at 100 degrees for 30 mins, and incorporated at a level as high as 20% of diet do not retard growth when tested against casein. However, when beans which have cooked at 70 degrees for 30 mins are incorporated growth retardation is almost as great as that which occurs when raw beans are fed. The small amount of lectin present in beans cooked at 70 degrees might be responsible for this effect.
Strategies to achieve systemic delivery of therapeutic cells and microbes to tumors

In order to more effectively treat cancer, targeted delivery of therapeutic agents will be needed. The creation of delivery vehicles capable of locating and entering tumors before delivering a therapeutic payload will, therefore, enable the design of more beneficial and less toxic treatment platforms. Although nanoparticles, microbubbles and liposomes may also partially address these issues, the use of biological agents as delivery vehicles presently holds much promise. Through the hijacking of natural pathogen or cell trafficking pathways it is possible to actively target such agents to the tumor; they are then capable of selective replication (multiplying their therapeutic potential) and may be directly cytolytic themselves and/or may be utilized to deliver therapeutic genes. These agents, such as oncolytic viruses, attenuated bacteria and eukaryotic cells (cellular immunotherapeutics and progenitor and stem cells) will be discussed along with the mechanisms employed to deliver them systemically to tumo...
Electron microscopy and histochemistry of pemphigus and pemphigoid

Abstract The various junctions by which cell-to-cell contact is maintained in normal oral mucosa and skin are described. Disruptions of cellular junctions are seen in such disorders as pemphigus and pemphigoid.
Detailed simulation of pressures in separated/reattached flows

Abstract Mean and fluctuating pressure coefficients from four wind tunnel roughness configurations are investigated for three sets of pressure taps on the roof of a 1:50 scale model of the Texas Tech Wind Engineering Research Field Laboratory experimental building, and compared with the field data where possible. Pressure coefficients obtained from a set of pressure taps under the corner vortex are also investigated and presented. This investigation also includes the study of extreme pressure peaks and their duration, for individual pressure taps and area averaged pressures. Flow simulation requirements for wind tunnel experiments are introduced, which are considered essential for a realistic assessment of wind loads in critical areas.
The Extracellular Matrix Contributes to Mechanotransduction in Uterine Fibroids

The role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and mechanotransduction as an important signaling factor in the human uterus is just beginning to be appreciated. The ECM is not only the substance that surrounds cells, but ECM stiffness will either compress cells or stretch them resulting in signals converted into chemical changes within the cell, depending on the amount of collagen, cross-linking, and hydration, as well as other ECM components. In this review we present evidence that the stiffness of fibroid tissue has a direct effect on the growth of the tumor through the induction of fibrosis. Fibrosis has two characteristics: (1) resistance to apoptosis leading to the persistence of cells and (2) secretion of collagen and other components of the ECM such a proteoglycans by those cells leading to abundant disposition of highly cross-linked, disoriented, and often widely dispersed collagen fibrils. Fibrosis affects cell growth by mechanotransduction, the dynamic signaling system whereby mechanical forces initiate chemical signaling in cells. Data indicate that the structurally disordered and abnormally formed ECM of uterine fibroids contributes to fibroid formation and growth. An appreciation of the critical role of ECM stiffness to fibroid growth may lead to new strategies for treatment of this common disease.
Integrity, unprincipled agents and corporate governance reform

This study investigates the implications of integrity—interpreted as the alignment of one’s words and deeds—within the agency paradigm by explicitly allowing for unprincipled behavior (agent misconduct) in addition to conflicts of interest resulting from the separation of ownership and control. Under adverse selection, contracts that screen for agents who exhibit integrity characterize a previously unidentified symbiosis between the penalty for unprincipled behavior and high-powered incentive pay. The resulting contracts and penalties are interpreted in light of the Sarbanes–Oxley and Dodd–Frank Acts.
Low doses of risperidone and morphine interact to produce more analgesia and greater extrapyramidal effects in rats

Abstract The search for non-narcotic drugs that will enhance the analgesic effects of opiates without enhancing their side effects has included the investigation of psychoactive drugs already approved for other uses. Some research has supported an analgesic effect of risperidone (RIS), an atypical neuroleptic. However, the analysis of the analgesic efficacy of RIS alone or as an adjuvant to morphine (MOR) has not considered the production of adverse motor effects that would limit its usefulness as a treatment for pain. We tested whether low doses of RIS would enhance the analgesic action of opiates without inducing untoward motor effects. The analgesia induced by a range of RIS doses (0.1–1.0 mg/kg, SC) was assessed alone and in combination with MOR (5 mg/kg, IP) in male Long–Evans (hooded) rats using two different algesiometric assays: hotplate and tail-flick test. The presence or absence of ptosis, vacuous chewing, and abnormal stationary postures was recorded to evaluate dyskinetic effects. No dose of RIS alone altered pain threshold. However, the highest dose of RIS, 1.0 mg/kg SC, significantly increased the analgesic effects of MOR. Dyskinetic effects of RIS were dose-dependent and enhanced in RIS + MOR treatment. These results do not support the hypothesis that RIS, alone or in combination with MOR, elevates pain threshold without also inducing motor side effects. These findings suggest caution in the use of RIS as either a primary treatment or opiate adjuvant treatment for pain.
Process efficiency measurements in the laser engineered net shaping process

A study of laser energy transfer efficiency, melting efficiency, and deposition efficiency has been conducted for the laser-engineered net-shaping process (LENS) for H-13 tool steel and copper powder deposits on H-13 tool steel substrates. This study focused on the effects of laser deposition processing parameters (laser power, travel speed, and powder mass flow rate) on laser beam absorption by the substrate material. Measurements revealed that laser energy transfer efficiency ranged from 30 to 50 pct. Laser beam coupling was found to be relatively insensitive to the range of processing parameters tested. Melting efficiency was found to increase with increasing laser input power, travel speed, and powder mass flow rate. A dimensionless parameter model that has been used to predict melting efficiency for laser beam welding processing was investigated for the LENS process. From these results, a semiempirical model was developed specifically for the LENS processing window. Deposition efficiency was also investigated and results show that under optimum processing conditions, the maximum deposition efficiency was approximately 14 pct. A semiempirical relation was developed to estimate deposition efficiency as a function of process efficiencies and LENS processing parameters. Knowledge of LENS process efficiencies measured in this study is useful to develop accurate heat flow and solidification models for the LENS process.
Allele-specific malE mutations that restore interactions between maltose-binding protein and the inner-membrane components of the maltose transport system.

Abstract Active accumulation of maltose and maltodextrins by Escherichia coli depends on an outer-membrane protein, LamB, a periplasmic maltose-binding protein (MalE, MBP) and three inner-membrane proteins, MalF, MalG and MalK. MalF and MalG are integral transmembrane proteins, while MalK is associated with the inner aspect of the cytoplasmic membrane via an interaction with MalG. Previously we have shown that MBP is essential for movement of maltose across the inner membrane. We have taken advantage of malF and malG mutants in which MBP interacts improperly with the membrane proteins. We describe the properties of malE mutations in which a proper interaction between MBP and defective MalF and MalG proteins has been restored. We found that these malE suppressor mutations are able to restore transport activity in an allele-specific manner. That is, a given malE mutation restores transport activity to different extents in different malF and malG mutants. Since both malF and malG mutations could be suppressed by allele-specific malE suppressors, we propose that, in wild-type bacteria, MBP interacts with sites on both MalF and MalG during active transport. The locations of different malE suppressor mutations indicate specific regions on MBP that are important for interacting with MalF and MalG.
The Role of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor in the Anxiogenic Effects of Ethanol Withdrawal

In summary, endogenous CRF has been demonstrated to play an important role in the endocrine but also autonomic and behavioral responses to a stressor and to mediate some of the signs and symptoms observed in human affective and anxiety disorders. These findings led to the hypothesis that the anxiety that characterizes drug withdrawal, such as ethanol withdrawal in humans, may be related in part to the action of CRF-producing neurons in the CNS. Indeed, rats made dependent on an ethanol liquid diet showed significant signs of enhanced stress responsiveness that was blocked by intracerebral administration of a CRF antagonist. At this time little is known about the specific site of action for endogenous CRF. However, recent studies using local administration of CRF antagonist and in vivo CRF microdialysis suggest that the central nucleus of the amygdala may be an important site for the increases in CRF activity associated with the anxiogenic effects of ethanol withdrawal. Although preliminary, these results propound that ethanol dependence may involve a prolonged dysregulation of the CRF system in the basal forebrain that may contribute to the increased motivational effect of ethanol withdrawal.
Environmental embrittlement of iron aluminides

Abstract The effects of gaseous and liquid environments on the fracture behavior of Fe3Al and FeAl are reviewed. The influence of variables such as composition, microstructure, loading rate and temperature are described. It is shown that the iron iluminides, when tested in dry environments (oxygen, dry air, vacuum) are inherently ductile, but that the presence of very small levels of moisture is sufficient to cause severe embrittlement. Hydrogen, whether released from water vapor or directly in contact with the iron aluminides, is the agent of embrittlement. A detailed discussion of the mechanism of embrittlement is included. Alleviation of embrittlement by such techniques as alloying, surface protection and control of microstructure is outlined. Finally, the environmental embrittlement of iron aluminides is contrasted to that of other aluminides; the major difference is shown to be the propensity for cleavage fractures in FeAl and Fe3Al, compared to intergranular fracture in Ll2 polycrystals.
Reactions of pentafluorosulfanyliminodihalosulfanes, SF5NSX2, with nucleophiles. Preparation and characterization of pentafluorosulfanylsulfinylamine, SF5NSO.

Abstract Reactions of SF 5 NSF 2 with sodium alkoxides and aryloxides have produced both the mono- and disubstituted derivatives SF 5 NS(F)OR and SF 5 NS(OR) 2 , where RCH 3 , CH 2 CHCH 2 , C 6 H 5 , p -C 6 H 4 NO 2 , p -C 6 H 4 Br, p -C 6 H 4 CN. The reaction of SF 5 NSCl 2 with AgNCO produced SF 5 NS(NCO) 2 . This diisocyanate can also be prepared from the reaction of SF 5 NSCl 2 with KOCN in liquid SO 2 . The proposed intermediate, SF 5 NSO, in the hydrolysis of SF 5 NSF 2 was prepared from the low temperature reaction of SF 5 NSCl 2 and Ag 2 O in C 6 H 5 NO 2 . The new pentafluorosulfanyl derivatives were characterized by IR, 1 H and 19 F NMR, mass spectrometry and where possible 13 C NMR and elemental analysis.
The Charcôt-Bouchard aneurysm controversy: impact of a new histologic technique.

For over a century a controversy has existed about the prevalence and significance of Charcot-Bouchard (C-B) aneurysms, especially regarding their relationship to intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in man. We reassessed C-B aneurysms by staining thick brain sections from 35 hypertensives and 20 normotensives with the alkaline phosphatase (AP) endothelial stain followed by light microscopy and high-resolution microradiography. Charcot-Bouchard aneurysms were conspicuously absent in both groups which included four cases of hypertensive ICH. The three-dimensional perspective and enhanced ability to trace vessels with these techniques helped to identify arteriolar coils and twists that can be mistaken for aneurysms when demonstrated by injection methods. Routine brain pathologic sections from 2,800 autopsies over a decade showed rare examples of parenchymal aneurysms. We conclude that elimination in our study of a) injection artifacts and b) misinterpretations shows that C-B aneurysms are uncommon and have little relationship to ICH. Despite this, and in view of the original contribution of Charcot and Bouchard, the occasional examples of brain parenchymal aneurysms should continue to bear their names.
Capital deepening and impatience equivalence in stochastic aggregative growth models

This paper analyzes the aggregative growth model subject to random production shocks. It is shown that for a higher discount factor the associated optimal plan maintains higher capital input at every time period and for almost all environments, in both the finite and infinite horizon problems. It is further shown that two alternative notions of decreasing impatience, lengthening the horizon (for a fixed discount factor) and increasing the discount factor (for a fixed horizon) are, in a precise sense, equivalent. Discount factor insensitivity is also established.
Solvent and Solute Effects on Hydration and Aggregation Numbers of Triton X-100 Micelles†

Quasi-elastic light scattering spectroscopy was used to measure the mutual diffusion coefficient Dm of Triton X-100 micelles, and the probe diffusion coefficient Dp of polystyrene latex spheres diffusing through micelle solutions. The solution ionic strength has a substantial effect on aggregation number N and hydration δ of Triton X-100 micelles, N and δ both increasing with increasing salt concentration. This behavior may be qualitatively described as arising from a salt-induced change in the location of the water/Triton X-100 cloud curve.
Effects of moisture on thermal and mechanical properties of nylon-6,6

This study examined the moisture absorption and other properties of nylon-6,6 as a function of mold temperature and annealing effects. Moisture absorption was seen to decrease as the temperature of molding and annealing increased with a predictable effect on mechanical and thermal properties: namely, increased moisture absorption indicated lower strength, stiffness, but higher ductility and impact resistance. Thermal analysis by differential scanning calorimetry indicated that with an increase in moisture absorption in the nylon-6,6 a broadening of the melting endotherm is observed, suggesting a typical plasticizing effect of water on the nylon-6,6. This study suggests that molding conditions of a nylon-6,6 material may ultimately effect the levels of crystallinity in the final part and establish a relationship between the amount of absorbed water for a given nylon product and its processing variables.
Reactivity to Factor-VIII Concentrates of Lymphocytes from Patients with Haemophilia and von Willebrand's Disease

Summary. To tcst the antigenicity of two materials used in the management of factor-VIII deficiency, lymphocytes from normal volunteers and from patients with haemophilia and with von Willebrand's disease (vWd) were exposed in vitro to cryoprecipitate and to glycine-precipitated factor VIII (Hemofil). As measured by incorporation of 14C-thymidine, the factor-VIII concentrates stimulated lymphocytes from some haemophiliacs and nontransfused normal donors, whereas lymphocytes from patients with vWd were unreactive. The data provide further immunological support for the concept that haemophilia and vWd are two separate and distinct disorders.
Nanoparticle assembly: Building blocks for tumour delivery

Supramolecular structures composed of inorganic nanoparticles and DNA strands can efficiently target tumours and then be disassembled for ease of elimination from the body.
Shifting parameters of individual and group variation : African American English on Roanoke Island

The relationship of the individual to the group is one of the central issues in language variation, particularly in mono-ethnic enclaves. This study examines the role of the individual and the grou...
Explosive bolide impact designates the Cambrian Explosion, terminating the Cambrian event in New York

In 1978 as chairman of the Geology and Geography Section of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) I planned a program for the 1980 annual convention in San Franscisco, California. The 1980 program included Louis W. Alvarez (1911–1988) who reported that an asteroid 10 kilometers in diameter struck the earth at the end of the Cretaceous. This conclusion resulted from Alvarez and colleagues discovery in Gubbio, Europe, of a centimeter-thick clay layer among carbonate rock containing iridium, a siderophile element, at the Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary. Involvement in this discussion stimulated my interest in the study of Taconic carbonate deposits of my home and university setting in the Troy, New York and contiguous areas dating to the base of the Cambrian. Analyses of the New York carbonate samples gave comparable iridium results to those from the end of the Cretaceous in Europe. From these iridium anomalies I concluded that an extraterrestrial source, namely an asteroid, produced the iridium anomalies in the Cambrian of New York.
The Kinematics and Kinetics of the Running Pattern of Two-, Four-, and Six-Year-Old Children

Abstract Selected kinematic and kinetic variables in the running pattern of 2-, 4-, and 6-year-old children were investigated. Cinematographic records and force-plate tracings were used to study the running patterns of the 28 Caucasian subjects, 15 male and 13 female. A 2 × 3 (sex × age) factorial analysis of variance was used to determine whether effects of variation between and within age and sex factors for each of the dependent variables of selected kinematic (displacement and velocity) and kinetic (ground reaction force) variables were significant. The running speeds improved with age. Although height and weight gains influenced the improvement shown in performance, certain biomechanical variables also contributed to the development of the running pattern. In the majority of the selected kinematic and kinetic variables there were significant differences between the 2-year-old group and the other two groups. Where there were significant differences in the variables, the differences tended to be in dis...
The Analysis of Radiographic Images

The problem considered is the development of a method of scene analysis that employs a descriptive approach in the analysis of pictures. In an effort to facilitate implementation of the algorithm to a wide range of picture classes, a description of the scene is read in as data in the form of a tree structure that guides the search for objects from the largest to the smallest. The algorithm has the following features: the analysis of the scene is top-down; feature extraction and pattern recognition are combined in a reinforcing system; the algorithm contains a description of the class of scenes to be analyzed; region enumeration techniques are used in primitive object identification; principal parameters in the program are self-adjusting; and the concept of ``field of vision'' is used to locate the boundaries of objects. The algorithm has been implemented and tested on posteroanterior (PA) chest radiograms, anteroposterior (AP) knee radiograms, and lateral brain scans. The analysis of PA chest radiograms is used to describe the implementation of the program. To date, the algorithm has been tested only on radiographic images; however, the method should also be applicable to other image classes.
Dissipative particle dynamics of triblock copolymer melts: A midblock conformational study at moderate segregation

As thermoplastic elastomers, triblock copolymers constitute an immensely important class of shape-memory soft materials due to their unique ability to form molecular networks stabilized by physical, rather than chemical, cross-links. The extent to which such networks develop in triblock and higher-order multiblock copolymers is sensitive to the formation of midblock bridges, which serve to connect neighboring microdomains. In addition to bridges, copolymer molecules can likewise form loops and dangling ends upon microphase separation or they can remain unsegregated. While prior theoretical and simulation studies have elucidated the midblock bridging fraction in triblock copolymer melts, most have only considered strongly segregated systems wherein dangling ends and unsegregated chains become relatively insignificant. In this study, simulations based on dissipative particle dynamics are performed to examine the self-assembly and networkability of moderately segregated triblock copolymers. Utilizing a density-based cluster-recognition algorithm, we demonstrate how the simulations can be analyzed to extract information about microdomain formation and permit explicit quantitation of the midblock bridging, looping, dangling, and unsegregated fractions for linear triblock copolymers varying in chain length, molecular composition, and segregation level. We show that midblock conformations can be sensitive to variations in chain length, molecular composition, and bead repulsion, and that a systematic investigation can be used to identify the onset of strong segregation where the presence of dangling and unsegregated fractions are minimal. In addition, because this clustering approach is robust, it can be used with any particle-based simulation method to quantify network formation of different morphologies for a wide range of triblock and higher-order multiblock copolymer systems.
Feedback Control of Periodic Delayed Systems

In this study, three control strategies based on Chebyshev spectral collocation and the Lyapunov Floquet transformation (LFT) are explored for regulation control of linear periodic time delayed systems. In the first strategy, the stability of the closedloop response is investigated in the parameter space of available control gains using infinite-dimensional Floquet theory, where the Chebyshev collocation method is used to approximate the monodromy operator. Then, optimization of the control gains is included to obtain the minimum spectral radius. The spectral convergence of the Chebyshev collocation method enables accurate low-order approximations. In the second strategy, the time periodic delayed differential equation (DDE) is discretized into a large set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using the Chebyshev spectral continuous time approximation (CSCTA). Then, optimal (time-varying LQR) control is used to minimize a cost function by directly solving the time-periodic Riccati equation (PRE) backwards in time from which the control gain is obtained for different weighting matrices. The third strategy involves use of both CSCTA and the reduced Lyapunov Floquet transformation (RLFT), where the dominant modes of the fundamental solution matrix are used to obtain the RLFT matrix. Then, an auxiliary reduced order linear time invariant (LTI) system is introduced and either pole-placement or LQR is used to obtain the control gains that asymptotically stabilize the auxiliary system, and hence the original system as well. The delayed Mathieu equation is used as an illustrative example and the closed-loop response of the system, control force, and the total control effort are investigated for all three control strategies. In previous stud
The database group at the University of Washington

The database group at the University of Washington (UW) was founded in 1998 when the department hired Alon Halevy (now at Google). The group currently consists of about twenty researchers: three faculty members (the authors), four postdocs, and fifteen students. Alumni include faculty members at Computer Science Departments at British Columbia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Stanford, UMass, Wisconsin, one faculty member at the CMU Tepper School of Business, and several researchers and engineers at Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Nokia, Twitter, and other technology companies. The group has funding from NSF, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, and several companies including Amazon, EMC, Google, HP, Intel, Microsoft, NEC, and Yahoo. The group has been recognized through several best paper awards and two ACM SIGMOD Best Dissertation Awards. We conduct research mostly in small groups and tackle a diverse set of data management challenges. Some of our projects result from collaborations with domain scientists on the UW campus; others are sparked by novel theoretical breakthroughs that lead to new approaches to data management challenges; many are the results of both. We give here a short overview of the recent research themes in our group; more details are available on our website:
The deamido-diphosphopyridine nucleotide and diphosphopyridine nucleotide pyrophosphorylases of Escherichia coli and yeast.

Abstract The DPN (deamido-DPN) pyrophosphorylases of yeast and Escherichia coli B were partially purified and their properties were studied. The data suggested that one enzyme in each organism catalyzed the synthesis and pyrophosphorolysis of both deamido-DPN and DPN. The rate of synthesis of deamido-DPN is about two times greater than the rate of synthesis of DPN when catalyzed by the yeast enzyme. The rate of deamido-DPN synthesis is 17 times greater than the rate of DPN synthesis in reaction mixtures containing the E. coli enzyme. Both enzymes are specific for ATP and deoxy-ATP. All other nucleoside triphosphates were inactive in forming dinucleotides.
Obsessions and Compulsions across Time in 79 Children and Adolescents with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Abstract Individual symptoms of 79 children and adolescents with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder were obtained from chart review of at least two in-person evaluations and recorded across an average of 7.9 years (range, 2 to 16). Symptoms were grouped according to the categories of the Yale-Brown Symptom Checklist. No significant age related trends were found with any one type of symptom, although patients with a very early onset of illness (less than 6 years old) were more likely to have compulsions than obsessions. Across the study period, patients reported symptoms from many different symptom categories, with 47% of the patients displaying both washing and checking compulsions at some time during their illness. No patient maintained the same constellation of symptoms from presentation to follow-up. These data support the concept of obsessive-compulsive disorder as an illness with varied clinical manifestations that individually change over time.
Effect of Flow Pulsatility and Wall Compliance on the Energy Loss in the Total Cavopulmonary Connection

Single Ventricle Heart Defects (SVHD) are present in 2 per 1000 live births in the US. SVHD are characterized by cyanotic mixing between the de-oxygenated blood from the systemic circulation return and the oxygenated blood from the pulmonary arteries. In the current practice, surgical interventions on SVHD patients commonly result in the total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) [1]. In this configuration the systemic venous returns (inferior vena cava, IVC, and superior vena cava, SVC) are directly routed to the right and left pulmonary arteries (RPA and LPA), bypassing the right heart. The resulting anatomy has complex and unsteady hemodynamics characterized by flow mixing and flow separation. Pulsation of the inlet venous flow during a cardiac cycle and wall motion may result in complex and unsteady flow patterns in the TCPC. Although vessel wall motion and different degrees of pulsatility have been observed in vivo, non-pulsatile (time-averaged) flow boundary conditions and rigid walls have traditionally been assumed in estimating the TCPC hemodynamic parameters (such as energy loss). Recent studies have shown that these assumptions may result in significant inaccuracies in modeling TCPC hemodynamics [2, 3].Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Electron scattering from acoustic phonons in quantum dots and other nanostructures

Abstract Scattering of electrons from acoustic phonons in semiconductor nanostructures occurs via an interaction, which we call the “ripple mechanism”, in addition to the usual deformation potential coupling. We provide a general derivation of this novel coupling mechanism and give detailed expressions for it which are valid for all nanostructure systems, including those with quasi-zero-, one- and two-dimensional geometries. Calculations are presented here of the electron scattering rates due to acoustic phonons for quantum dots in a variety of shapes. We find that scattering due to the ripple mechanism dominates that from the deformation potential for dot sizes less than ∼50 nm and that the ripple mechanism contribution can be much larger for smaller dot sizes.