cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Age at Onset of Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Older Adults

Objective The authors explored the distribution and correlates of age-at-onset of late-life generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Methods Authors examined the distribution of age at onset in a sample of 67 older adults with GAD recruited for a psychotherapy study. They compared those with an early onset of symptoms (before age 50) to those with a late onset (after 50) on demographic variables and measures of psychopathology and health-related quality of life. Results There was a bimodal distribution of age at onset, with 57% reporting early onset and 43% reporting a late onset. Patients with an early onset of symptoms had a higher rate of psychiatric comorbidity and psychotropic medication use and more severe worry. Patients with a late onset of symptoms reported more functional limitations due to physical problems. Conclusions Although most older GAD patients report an onset in childhood or adolescence, almost half develop the disorder in late life. Older adults with an early onset of GAD appear to have a more severe course, characterized by pathological worry, than those with a later onset. Role disability may be a risk factor for onset of GAD in late life.
A composite biomarker of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and hemoglobin level correlates with clinical response to PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors in advanced non-small cell lung cancers

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been incorporated into various clinical oncology guidelines for systemic treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancers (aNSCLC). However, less than 50% (and 20%) of the patients responded to the therapy as a first (or second) line of therapy. PD-L1 immunohistochemistry (IHC) is an extensively studied biomarker of response to ICI, but results from this test have equivocal predictive power. In order to identify other biomarkers that support clinical decision-making around whether to treat with ICIs or not, we performed a retrospective study of patients with aNSCLC who underwent ICI-based therapy in the Mount Sinai Health System between 2014 and 2019. We analyzed data from standard laboratory tests performed in patients as a part of the routine clinical workup during treatment, including complete blood counts (CBC) and a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), to correlate test results with clinical response and survival. Of 11,138 NSCLC patients identified, 249 had been treated with ICIs. We found associations between high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR ≥ 5) and poor survival in ICI-treated NSCLC. We further observed that sustained high NLR after initiation of treatment had a more profound impact on survival than baseline NLR, regardless of PD-L1 status. Hazard ratios when comparing patients with NLR ≥ 5 vs. NLR < 5 are 1.7 (p = 0.02), 3.4 (p = 4.2 × 10− 8), and 3.9 (p = 1.4 × 10− 6) at baseline, 2–8 weeks, and 8–14 weeks after treatment start, respectively. Mild anemia, defined as hemoglobin (HGB) less than 12 g/dL was correlated with survival independently of NLR. Finally, we developed a composite NLR and HGB biomarker. Patients with pretreatment NLR ≥ 5 and HGB < 12 g/dL had a median overall survival (OS) of 8.0 months (95% CI 4.5–11.5) compared to the rest of the cohort with a median OS not reached (95% CI 15.9-NE, p = 1.8 × 10− 5), and a hazard ratio of 2.6 (95% CI 1.7–4.1, p = 3.5 × 10− 5). We developed a novel composite biomarker for ICI-based therapy in NSCLC based on routine CBC tests, which may provide meaningful clinical utility to guide treatment decision. The results suggest that treatment of anemia to elevate HGB before initiation of ICI therapy may improve patient outcomes or the use of alternative non-chemotherapy containing regimens.
The Reliability of Pre-operative Prone Radiographs to Determine Spinal Curve Flexibility in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Purpose: The Lenke classification requires full spine standing and bending radiographs to evaluate spinal flexibility. Because bending films are inherently variable, pre-operative assessment may also utilize full spine prone imaging that is not effort based. Few studies have addressed the correlation of different radiographic positions, specifically the prone position to the bending position, to assess spinal flexibility. The purpose of this study was to determine if prone position radiographs can be a surrogate for bending position …
Fabrication, Measurement, and Modeling of GaInP/GaAs Three-Terminal Cells and Strings

Three-terminal (3T) GaInP/GaAs solar cells are fabricated from inverted-grown monolithic tandems and processed with external metal contacts suitable for easy interconnection. Prototype 3T tandems both with and without tunnel junctions are demonstrated. They are characterized as a function of two independent variables in a variety of configurations, with each configuration holding one of the contacts common to two source-meter units (SMUs). Each of these different measurement configurations completely characterizes the device by transforming the results into 6 unique device parameters and plotting the total power parametrically in two dimensions. The performance is fit using a 3T optoelectronic model that includes luminescent coupling as well as important resistances. Eight of these devices are interconnected in various voltage-constrained configurations to form voltage-matched (VM) strings. Measurement and analysis of these III-V devices and strings are generally applicable to all 3T photovoltaics.
Vibronic Coherence Evolution in Ultrafast Charge Transfer

The photoexcited charge transfer of the well-known dye molecule, “N34-”, is investigated using multidimensional (2D and 3D) EV spectroscopy. Vibronic coherences are shown to be central in its nonadiabatic photoexcited relaxation.
Microglia-specific promoter activities of human HexB gene

Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated genetic targeting of microglia remains challenging. Overcoming this hurdle is essential for gene editing in the central nervous system (CNS). Here, we characterized the minimal/native promoter of the HexB gene, which is known to be specifically and stably expressed in the microglia during homeostatic and pathological conditions. Dual reporter and serial deletion assays identified the critical role of the natural 59 untranslated region (-97 bp related to the first ATG) in driving transcriptional activity of the mouse HexB gene. The native promoter region of mouse, human and monkey HexB located at -135, -134 and -170 bp to the first ATG, respectively. These promoters were highly active and specific in microglia with strong cross-species transcriptional activities, but had no activities in primary astrocytes. In addition, we identified a 135 bp promoter of CD68 gene was also highly active in microglia but not in astrocytes. Considering that HexB is specifically expressed in microglia, not in monocytes/macrophages or other neuronal cells, these data suggest that the newly characterized 134 bp microglia-specific HexB promoter can be an ideal candidate for microglia-targeting AAV gene therapy, which could be developed for HIV eradication in the brain wherein microglia harbor the main HIV reservoirs in the CNS.
Flux Switching Permanent Magnet Motor with Metal Amorphous Nanocomposite Soft Magnetic Material and Rare Earth Free Permanent Magnets

The power losses in high power-density motors due to high rotational speed and/or high pole counts may be reduced adopting metal amorphous nanocomposites (MANCs) featuring low power loss and a relatively high flux density ($\sim$1.3 T). We recently proposed a flux switching permanent magnet (FSPM) motor with a rating of 2.5 kW at 1400 Hz electrical speed that incorporates low loss (<3W/kg at 1 kHz) FeNi-based MANC with projected iron loss of about 5 W. The motor design allows use of rare earth-free permanent magnets. To incorporate MANCs, an axial flux motor with rotor and stator cores made from a wound ribbon has been developed. We performed 3-d FEA to optimize the design and built and tested a prototype showing that low loss MANC material can be used for motor applications with high magnetic switching frequency.
An Exploratory Study of Problem Solving in the Natural Habitat

A major task of researchers interested in human development during the early years as well as across the life span is the continued search for the major influencers of development and the apportionment of the variance attributable to each. An even more important task, however, is the attempt to discover the inter-connected and dynamic laws which govern the course of this development. [Recent work on a transactional model of development by Sameroff & Chandler (1975) and a dialectic model by Riegel (1976) appear helpful in this regard.] Nowhere are these laws more urgently needed than in the area of problem solving. Davis (1973) recently summarized research on problem solving and identified a variety of models and techniques (including Gestalt, cognitive, stimulus-response and computer models, brainstorming, simulations, synectics and bionics) which have been used to investigate the phenomenon.
Multilocus Electrophoretic Assessment of the Genetic Structure and Diversity of Yersinia ruckeri.

Abstract Multilocus isoenzyme electrophoresis was used to screen 47 field isolates of Yersinia ruckeri for electrophoretic variation at 15 enzyme loci. Only four electrophoretic types were observed, thus indicating that the genetic structure of Y. ruckeri is clonal. Forty-two isolates were of one electrophoretic type, a reflection of the low amount of genetic diversity extant in this species. Although sorbitol fermentation has been considered to be indicative of a second biotype, no significant gene frequency differences were found between the group of 20 isolates that readily used sorbitol as the sole carbon source and the group of 27 that did not.
Fluctuations and Freezing in a One-Dimensional Liquid: Hg3-δAsF6

In this talk we examine some of the properties which may arise in solids composed of two (or more) interpenetrating sublattices with spacings which are incommensurate one with another. The reason to suspect something out of the ordinary is shown by the following simple considerations. Imagine the two sublattices to be perfectly periodic and write their interaction energy y as a product of the charge density, \({\sigma _A}\left( {\overrightarrow r } \right)\) of one times the potential, \({\phi _B}\left( {\overrightarrow r } \right)\) of the other, $$\begin{gathered} {V_{AB}} = \int {{\sigma _A}} \left( {\overrightarrow r } \right)d\overrightarrow r \hfill \\ {\text{ = }}\sum\limits_{G{G^1}} {{\sigma _A}\left( {\overrightarrow G } \right)} {\Phi _B}\left( {\overrightarrow {{G_1}} } \right)\int {{e^{i\left( {\overrightarrow G } \right. - \left. {\overrightarrow {{G^1}} } \right) \bullet \left( {\overrightarrow r } \right)}}\overrightarrow {dr} } \hfill \\ {\text{ = }}\sum\limits_{G{G^1}} {{\sigma _A}} \left( {\overrightarrow G } \right){\Phi _B}\left( { - \left. {\overrightarrow {{G^1}} } \right)} \right.{\delta _{G,{G^1}}} \hfill \\ \end{gathered}$$ (1) This shows that the two sublattices interact only by virtue of common reciprocal lattice vectors. Suppose that both sublattices can be thought of as two-dimensional arrays of chains arranged on a common rectangular lattice, but with different and incommensurate interatomic spacings along the common chain direction, z. It then follows trivially that the only common reciprocal lattice vectors have \({G_Z} = G\frac{1}{Z} = 0\) and the resulting forces, while constraining the chains in the x,y plane, do not fix the relative positions of the two sublattices along z. (In fact, the system can gain additional interaction energy by a mutual modulation of the natural period of one chain type with the period of the other, but this is a small effect and does not change the qualitative conclusion that the forces which act to localize the atoms on their chains are, at best, abnormally weak.)
The myth of the salesperson: Intended and unintended consequences of product-specific sales incentives

Product-specific sales incentives (PSIs), or "spiffs," have instigated conflict in business and sales for more than fifty years. PSIs are exactly what they sound like: incentives offered by manufacturers to salespeople to encourage them to promote certain products above those of competitors. PSIs have provoked considerable controversy. They are sometimes likened to "bribes," in that their purpose is to motivate salespeople to offer advice that might contradict what they would otherwise recommend. If a salesperson's job is to sell an array of products, how is it equitable for him or her to receive additional compensation for selling certain products above others? In addition, how are we to justify the bias that the presence of PSIs introduces into the selling process. There is concern that this causes negative consequences for stakeholders, including manufacturers, retailers, salespeople, and, of course, customers. How does this affect the competitive process?The research conducted explores the reaction to PSIs by people of different ages. It reveals a correlation between age, education, and reaction to PSIs. The findings correspond with the Josephson Institute of Ethics report, which found that younger adults tend to exhibit higher tolerance for unethical behavior. Examination of PSIs, like other sales incentives, reveals intentional and unintentional consequences to a wide array of stakeholders. The research indicates that there is value inherent in considering both the propriety and manner of implementation of sales incentives, such as PSIs.
N 14 ( He 3 , n ) F 16 Reaction

Time-of-flight neutron spectra from the bombardment of a chromium nitride target by 3.5- and 6.2-MeV ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ particles indicate five neutron groups corresponding to the ground state of ${\mathrm{F}}^{16}$ and to excited states at 0.20\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.05, 0.436\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.030, 0.736\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.040, and 3.78\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.06 MeV, with widths of 50\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}30, 40, 40\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}30, 15 and 40 keV, respectively. The ground state $Q$ value is -0.963\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.040 MeV, corresponding to a ${\mathrm{F}}^{16}$ atomic mass excess of 10.686\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.040 MeV. The results are discussed in terms of the known information on the $T=1$ states in the $A=16$ isobaric triad.
Navigating the Borders Between International Commercial Arbitration and U.S. Federal Courts: A Jurisprudential GPS

To the uninitiated, international commercial arbitration may seem as if it “isn’t all that different” from domestic arbitration or litigation. However, the truth of the matter is that international commercial arbitration is an extremely challenging area of law, full of traps for inexperienced parties. This is particularly true with respect to the parties’ ability to seek relief from U.S. federal courts. While some advocates may believe that a visit to the judge is the best and fastest way to get results in certain types of procedural disputes, that tactic is often inappropriate in international arbitral proceedings, where the tribunal’s jurisdiction and powers are frequently in tension with the jurisdiction and power of various national courts (since there may be multiple courts that could potentially become involved with a particular matter).Quite simply, this area of practice is unlike any other, and the only way to avoid making expensive and time-consuming errors is to gain an overview of the process from a specialist’s perspective. This Article provides just that sort of guide, outlining the various ways in which U.S. federal courts can become involved in international commercial arbitration and introducing both basic and advanced concepts in a straightforward, practical manner. However, this Article provides more than just an overview. Instead, it discusses relevant issues on a motion-by-motion basis, helping readers find immediate answers to their questions while also getting a picture of the field as a whole.Written especially for busy lawyers, this Article gives practitioners, arbitrators and new and infrequent participants in international commercial arbitration a concise but comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges that arise in this complex area of law. Experienced counsel will also find the discussion helpful, not only as a means of explaining the process to clients and junior colleagues but also as a tactical tool to help consider various options in situations where a U.S. federal court may become (or has become) involved in an international arbitral proceeding.
Measurement and reduction of critical area using Voronoi diagrams

The semiconductor industry recognizes critical area as the scientific cornerstone metric of a design's fault sensitivity. The ability to accurately and quickly extract critical areas is mandatory when considering design for manufacturability (DFM) motivated changes to a portfolio of chip designs which potentially may translate to random defect yield improvements. IBM has invested in a new technique for computing critical areas based upon Voronoi diagrams. A Voronoi diagram uses the Linfin metric to develop artwork that incorporates nearest neighbor information for every point in a plane; we are able to compute the critical area for electrical shorts, opens, and blockage failure mechanisms. Difficult issues, such as accurately accounting for redundant contacts and vias for a given electrical connection, are also considered. The technique provides a number of advantages over previous techniques, and we compare and contrast the technique with other common industry approaches, such as the Monte Carlo and the shapes expansion techniques. Most noteworthy, the Voronoi-diagram-based approach gives an exact answer, eliminating the integration error found in the other techniques. The technique is also extremely fast; we have seen throughput improvements of more than 60 times compared with our Monte Carlo technique for full chip extraction. The Voronoi-diagram critical area extraction can be extended into a visual form. Previous interactive critical area tools have proven to be difficult to use; because the problem of balancing available spacing - and accounting for common-run and corner interactions - is very difficult, even for an experienced designer. Using Voronoi diagrams, the contribution to critical area can be precisely identified and expressed in the form of error shapes or vectors similar to the output from design rule checkers (DRC). Finally we conclude the paper by briefly discussing some of the other potential applications of Voronoi diagrams relating to DFM
A parietal memory network revealed by multiple MRI methods

The manner by which the human brain learns and recognizes stimuli is a matter of ongoing investigation. Through examination of meta-analyses of task-based functional MRI and resting state functional connectivity MRI, we identified a novel network strongly related to learning and memory. Activity within this network at encoding predicts subsequent item memory, and at retrieval differs for recognized and unrecognized items. The direction of activity flips as a function of recent history: from deactivation for novel stimuli to activation for stimuli that are familiar due to recent exposure. We term this network the 'parietal memory network' (PMN) to reflect its broad involvement in human memory processing. We provide a preliminary framework for understanding the key functional properties of the network.
Unsteady, one-dimensional flow in lattice-gas automata.

We study numerically unsteady, one-dimensional flow between parallel plates in the hexagonal lattice-gas automaton. An initial tangential velocity instability is created at one plate and its propagation into the system is investigated. This propagation depends on the boundary condition at the opposite plate. From the observed fluid behavior, viscosity is estimated.
Hook, line and sinker

Crisis in the World's Fisheries: People, Problems & Policies. By James R. McGoodwin. Stanford University Press: 1990. Pp.235. $35.
Temporal properties of responding during stimuli that precede response-independent food

Abstract Pigeons' keypecks were reinforced with grain on the average of once per minute by schedules that maintained low response rates and by schedules that maintained high response rates. During these schedules, a fixed-duration conditioned stimulus (CS) ranging from 7.5 to 120 sec in duration across conditions terminated with response-independent food. Response rates during the CS were inversely related to CS duration. The rates and the temporal patterns of responding during the shortest CS were similar whether the ongoing schedule maintained high response rates or low response rates. As CS duration increased, the rate and pattern of responding during the CS converged on the rate and pattern of responding maintained by the baseline schedule. These data indicate that changes in responding during stimuli that signal response-independent reinforcement are not homogeneous throughout the CS; that response measures, such as “suppression ratios”, which presume homogeneity may mislead us; and that conditioned suppression and conditioned enhancement may be better talked about in terms of species-specific approach and avoidance than in terms of emotional states.
Microbial Metabolism. Part 5. Dihydrokawain

Preparative scale fermentation of (6S)-dihydrokawain (1) with Rhizopus arrhizus (ATCC 11145) gave 3'-hydroxydihydrokawain (2) and (8S)-hydroxydihydrokawain (3). Structure elucidation of the metabolites was based on spectroscopic data. The C-8 absolute configuration of (3) was assessed via its Mosher's esters.
Improved nuclear power plant operations and safety through performance-based safety regulation

This paper illustrates some of the promise and needed future work for risk-informed, performance-based regulation (RIPBR). RIPBR is an evolving alternative to the current prescriptive method of nuclear safety regulation. Prescriptive regulation effectively constitutes a long, fragmented checklist of requirements that safety-related systems in a plant must satisfy. RIPBR, instead, concentrates upon satisfying negotiated performance goals and incentives for judging and rewarding licensee behavior to improve safety and reduce costs. In a project reported here, a case study was conducted concerning a pressurized water reactor (PWR) emergency diesel generator (EDG). Overall, this work has shown that the methods of RIPBR are feasible to use, and capable of justifying simultaneous safety and economic nuclear power improvements. However, it also reveals several areas where the framework of RIPBR should be strengthened. First, researchers need better data and understanding regarding individual component-failure modes that may cause components to fail. Not only are more data needed on failure rates, but more data and understanding are needed to enable analysts to evaluate whether these failures become more likely as the interval between tests is increased. This is because the current state of failure data is not sufficiently finely detailed to define the failure rates of individual component failure modes; such knowledge is needed when changing component-specific regulatory requirements. Second, the role of component testing, given that a component has failed, needs to be strengthened within the context of RIPBR. This includes formulating requirements for updating the prior probability distribution of a component failure rate and conducting additional or more frequent testing. Finally, as a means of compensating for unavoidable uncertainty as an obstacle to regulatory decision-making, limits to knowledge must be treated explicitly and formally. This treatment includes the formulation of probabilities through expert solicitation and the review of risk-informed, performance-based and engineering analyses used to evaluate proposed changes to existing technical specifications.
Hardware/Software Transparency In Robotics Through Object Level Design

This paper examines some computational issues in robotics. The concept of a robot-based manufacturing cell is outlined by viewing its behavior at three levels: machine level, cell integration level, and integration with higher level functions. Computational requirements associated with the first two of these three levels are discussed, and the need for very high computation rates at the machine level of a manufacturing cell, particularly for the real-time control of a robot arm and for robot vision is pointed out. The paper also explains the need to be able to manage multiple processes at the cell integration level. A unified solution to these computational needs which requires that the computation structure used to control and manage a manufacturing cell be designed as an object-based computer architecture is then proposed. The hardware /software boundary in the implementation of the objects comprising the overall architecture is transparent from a logical viewpoint but not from a timing viewpoint. Real-time constraints are met by implementing time-critical process objects directly in hardware. This "object level" design provides the hardware /software transparency necessary to formulate a unified system specification for these real-time embedded computer systems. Timing considerations can then be used determine the hardware /software boundary.
Remnance of Form: Interactive Narratives with Augmented Shadows

This video illustrates Remnance of Form, an interactive art installation comprising a series of vignettes designed to challenge our notion of reality through the manipulation of light and shadow. By fusing light, projection, and motion technologies, the shadow can now detach itself from its former role. This creates a new narrative that blurs the border between what's real and what's not.
Negative Social Evaluative Fears Produce Social Anxiety, Food Intake, and Body Dissatisfaction: Evidence of Similar Mechanisms through Different Pathways

Social anxiety and eating disorders are highly comorbid, suggesting there are shared vulnerabilities that underlie the development of these disorders. Two proposed vulnerabilities are fear of negative evaluation and social appearance anxiety (i.e., fear of negative evaluation regarding one's appearance). In the current experimental study (N=160 women) we measured these fears: (a) through a manipulation comparing fear conditions, (b) with trait fears, and (c) state fears. Results indicated that participants in the fear of negative evaluation condition increased food consumption, whereas participants in the social appearance anxiety condition and high in trait social appearance anxiety experienced the highest amounts of body dissatisfaction. Participants in the fear of evaluation and social appearance anxiety conditions experienced elevated social anxiety. These results support the idea that negative evaluation fears are shared vulnerabilities for eating and social anxiety disorders, but that the way these variables exert their effects may lead to disorder specific behaviors.
Effect of CYP1A inhibition on the biotransformation of benzo[a]pyrene in two populations of Fundulus heteroclitus with different exposure histories.

Abstract Sediment contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from a Superfund site on the Elizabeth River (ER) in Portsmouth, VA, is teratogenic to embryonic killifish ( Fundulus heteroclitus ) from reference sites. However, embryos born to a population of ER killifish are resistant to PAH-induced teratogenicity. Mechanisms underlying the resistance are unclear; however, ER killifish are refractory to induction of metabolic enzyme cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A), at the level of mRNA, protein and activity. The contaminated ER sediment comprises a complex mixture of PAHs with different mechanisms of toxicity. While many are inducers of metabolic enzymes involved in both phase I and phase II of biotransformation, some PAHs can also inhibit phase I enzymatic activity. Previous research has shown that co-exposure to PAHs with different modes of action can result in synergistic embryotoxicity (Billiard, S.M., Meyer, J.N.D., Wassenberg, M., Hodson, P.V., Di Giulio, R.T., 2008. Nonadditive effects of PAHs on early vertebrate development: mechanisms and implications for risk assessment. Toxicological Sciences 105, 5–23). Two of the abundant PAHs at the ER are fluoranthene (FL), a CYP1A inhibitor, and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a CYP1A inducer. Based on the ER resistant phenotype and the PAH mixture in the ER sediment, we hypothesized that the inhibition of CYP1A activity affects the teratogenicity of PAHs through a biotransformation-mediated mechanism. To examine this hypothesis, we compared the responses of killifish embryos born to parents from the ER and from a reference site (King's Creek (KC), VA) after a water-borne exposure to BaP (0–400 μg/L) in the presence or absence of FL (0–500 μg/L). Embryos were dosed from 24 to 120 h post-fertilization (hpf) and were analyzed for induction of CYP1 enzymatic activity as measured by the ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) assay, cardiac deformities, and BaP metabolic profile. KC embryos showed significant induction of CYP1 protein activity at all BaP concentrations examined. Co-exposure to 500 μg/L of FL significantly decreased CYP1 activity and increased cardiac deformities. ER embryos showed no change in CYP1 activity or cardiac deformities for any treatment. Significantly greater concentrations of BaP and BaP 9,10-dihydrodiol were recovered from ER embryos compared to those from KC. Co-exposure with FL did not significantly alter the amount of BaP or the metabolites recovered in either population. These findings suggest that the teratogenicity observed by co-exposure to BaP and FL cannot fully be explained by alteration in BaP metabolism. This study also indicates that the metabolic adaptation observed in the ER killifish cannot be explained simply by the refractory CYP1 phenotype.
Binding of vitamin A by casein micelles in commercial skim milk.

Abstract Recent studies have shown that reassembled micelles formed by caseinates and purified casein fractions (α s - and β-casein) bind to hydrophobic compounds, including curcumin, docosahexaenoic acid, and vitamin D. However, limited research has been done on the binding of hydrophobic compounds by unmodified casein micelles in skim milk. In the present study, we investigated the ability of casein micelles in commercial skim milk to associate with vitamin A (retinyl palmitate), a fat-soluble vitamin commonly used to fortify milk. Milk protein fractions from different commercially available skim milk samples subjected to different processing treatments, including pasteurized, ultrapasteurized, organic pasteurized, and organic ultrapasteurized milks, were separated by fast protein liquid chromatography. The fractions within each peak were combined and freeze-dried. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-PAGE with silver staining was used to identify the proteins present in each of the fractions. The skim milk samples and fractions were extracted for retinyl palmitate and quantified against a standard using normal phase-HPLC. Retinyl palmitate was found to associate with the fraction of skim milk containing caseins, whereas the other proteins (BSA, β-lactoglobulin, α-lactalbumin) did not show any binding. The retinyl palmitate content in the various samples ranged from 1.59 to 2.48µg of retinyl palmitate per mL of milk. The casein fractions contained between 14 and 40% of total retinyl palmitate in the various milks tested. The variation in the retention of vitamin A by caseins was probably explained by differences in the processing of different milk samples, including thermal treatment, the form of vitamin A emulsion used for fortification, and the point of fortification during processing. Unmodified casein micelles have a strong intrinsic affinity toward the binding of vitamin A used to fortify commercially available skim milks.
Retrosigmoid approach to acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma).

Abstract The retrosigmoid approach for the microsurgical removal of an acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is described, and perioperative medical management of the patient is discussed. The techniques for monitoring facial and cochlear nerve function are presented. The supine-oblique position, skin incision, bone removal, dural opening, and initial exposure are outlined. Important points in the technique for removing acoustic neuromas and preserving hearing, when possible, are described and illustrated.
Visual Acuity and Contrast Sensitivity for Individual Sloan Letters

Sloan letter optotypes are used frequently to evaluate visual impairment, and scoring procedures have been developed that are based on the numbers of letters that are identified correctly. However, previous studies have presented conflicting evidence regarding the relative identifiability of the individual Sloan letters. To investigate this issue further, we measured psychometric functions for the identification of each of the 10 Sloan letters, with individual letters presented in random order on the gray-scale display of a Macintosh computer-based testing system. Data were obtained from three visually normal subjects under each of three conditions: (1) as a function of log contrast at a relatively large letter size; (2) as a function of log contrast at a letter size near the acuity limit; and (3) as a function of log MAR (minimum angle of resolution) at maximum letter contrast. Estimates of threshold log contrast and threshold log MAR were derived from best-fitting Weibull functions. Threshold log contrast for small letters showed the greatest interletter variability. There was relatively little interletter variability in either threshold log contrast for large letters or threshold log MAR for high-contrast letters. However, due to the relatively steep psychometric functions under these latter two conditions, the different Sloan letters had considerably different percent correct values near threshold. The overall pattern of results suggests that the contrast sensitivity functions for individual Sloan letters are displaced laterally along a log MAR axis, while their vertical positions are essentially equivalent.
Growing new kidneys in situ.

One novel solution to the shortage of human organs available for transplantation envisions “growing” new organs in situ via xenotransplantation of developing primordia from animal embryos. Renal primordia (metanephroi) transplanted into animal hosts undergo organogenesis in situ, become vascularized by blood vessels of host origin, and exhibit excretory function. Metanephroi can be stored in vitro prior to transplantation and can be transplanted across both concordant (rat-to-mouse) and highly disparate (pig-to-rodent) xenogeneic barriers. Here we review studies exploring the therapeutic potential for renal organogenesis post-transplantation of kidney primordia.
Impedance studies of copper foil and graphite-coated copper foil electrodes in lithium-ion battery electrolyte

Abstract The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy of battery grade copper foil and graphite-coated copper foil electrodes in 1 M LiPF 6 in a ternary organic carbonate electrolyte has been obtained. Detailed studies showed that both electrodes gave similar impedance spectra of two successive semicircular arcs. When overpotential was increased for both electrodes, the high frequency semicircles remained the same on each electrode, but the second semicircle increased for both electrodes. Based on the impedance spectra results of the electrodes, it appeared that the high frequency response represented a surface oxidation layer. At low frequency further oxidation occurs at both electrodes, but is kinetically controlled for bare copper, while the graphite-coated copper undergoes diffusional blocking through the porous carbon layer. An equivalent circuit of the impedance spectrum was then proposed.
Geochemical and physical sources of radon variation in a subterranean estuary — Implications for groundwater radon activities in submarine groundwater discharge studies

Abstract Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD), from springs and diffuse seepage, has long been recognized as a source of chemical constituents to the coastal ocean. Because groundwater is two to four orders of magnitude enriched in radon compared to surface water, it has been used as both a qualitative and a quantitative tracer of groundwater discharge. Besides this large activity gradient, the other advantage of radon stems from its classification as noble gas; that is, its chemical behavior is expected not to be influenced by salinity, redox, and diagenetic conditions present in aquatic environments. During our three-year monthly sampling of the subterranean estuary (STE) in Waquoit Bay, MA, we found highly variable radon activities (50–1600 dpm L− 1) across the fresh–saline interface of the aquifer. We monitored pore water chemistry and radon activity at 8 fixed depths spanning from 2 to 5.6 m across the STE, and found seasonal fluctuations in activity at depths where elevated radon was observed. We postulate that most of the pore water 222Rn is produced from particle-surface-bound 226Ra, and that the accumulation of this radium is likely regulated by the presence of manganese (hydr)oxides. Layers of manganese (hydr)oxides form at the salinity transition zone (STZ), where water with high salinity, high manganese, and low redox potential mixes with fresh water. Responding to the seasonality of aquifer recharge, the location of the STZ and the layers with radium enriched manganese (hydr)oxide follows the seasonal land- or bayward movement of the freshwater lens. This results in seasonal changes in the depth where elevated radon activities are observed. The conclusion of our study is that the freshwater part of the STE has a radon signature that is completely different from the STZ or recirculated sea water. Therefore, the radon activity in SGD will depend on the ratio of fresh and recirculated seawater in the discharging groundwater.
Distribution of ferritin mRNA and albumin mRNA between free and membrane-bound rat liver polysomes

Abstract Free and membrane-bound polyribosomes and their respective mRNAS were isolated from the livers of both normal rats and rats treated with a single large dose of iron a few hours before being killed. The membrane-bound and free polysomes were incubated in vitro with [ 3 H]leucine and a pH 5 enzyme preparation, and peptide chains of albumin and ferritin were identified by immunoprecipitation. Albumin peptide chains were almost completely confined to the bound ribosomes, whereas ferritin peptide chains were found three times more frequently on free ribosomes than on bound ribosomes. Messenger RNA from each class of ribosome was translated in a wheat germ system, and the products were isolated by immunoprecipitation. Albumin mRNA was restricted almost exclusively to membrane-bound ribosomes. However, ferritin mRNA was equally abundant in the total mRNA of bound and free ribosomes. This finding contrasts with the low capacity of the bound ribosomes to synthesize ferritin in vitro, and suggests that the bound ribosomes of liver contain non-translated ferritin mRNA. Brief treatment of the rats with iron caused a sharp increase in the amount of nascent ferritin chains and l -ferritin mRNA in the free liver ribosomes, but failed to change the nascent chains or ferritin mRNA content of the bound polyribosome fraction. Only an apoferritin subunit of 19 000 daltons was formed by the free and membrane-bound ferritin mRNA. This has significance for the published observation of several sizes of protein subunits in ferritin isolated from tissue ferritins. These may represent modifications of the peptide chain after translation or artifacts of isolation.
The Effect of Protein-Energy Malnutrition on the Growth of Tooth Germs in Newborn Rats

The effect of protein-energy malnutrition on the growth of molar and incisor tooth germs was studied. Significant differences were found between control and malnourished groups in the weights and calcium contents of both tooth germs. The data point to the importance of the effect of nutrient deficiency on the critical growth period of an oral structure.
Transplantation for Refractory Germ Cell Tumors: Does it Really Make a Difference?

High-dose chemotherapy (HDC) has been used over the past 25 years for germ-cell tumors in a variety of clinical scenarios. There is consensus at this point that its use as part of first-line treatment does not benefit patients with high-risk tumors. Long-term results of prospective trials in patients with relapsed or with refractory disease indicate that a fraction of them achieve long-term remissions consistent with cures. While HDC constitutes for many oncologists in the US an accepted treatment modality for relapsed or refractory GCT, controversy surrounds its use in those settings. Prognostic models have been developed that allow to prospectively identify poor prognosis patients that might benefit from novel HDC-based approaches.
Modeling latency—lifetime trade-off for target detection in mobile sensor networks

Two important measures of performance for the surveillance applications of the mobile sensor networks are detection latency and system lifetime. Previous work on modeling detection delay has assumed that sensor measurements are delivered to the fusion center with zero delay. Such approaches can require excessive energy, resulting into reduced lifetime. This article argues that a trade-off between detection latency and system lifetime can be made by employing an energy aware transmission scheme. The article formulates the trade-off as an optimization problem, and presents an analytic method to model both detection latency and system lifetime. The model is substantiated by using simulation.
Latest Pleistocene increase in wind intensity recorded in eolian sediments from central Alaska.

A brief increase in wind intensity between ca. 11,100 and 10,700 yr B.P. is recorded by a sharp increase in sediment grain size at eolian sections along the Nenana River in central Alaska. This occurred at the same time as the Younger Dryas climatic reversal in northern Europe and an increase in the vigor of atmospheric circulation recorded by Greenland ice cores. Climatic fluctuations in high latitude areas during Younger Dryas time may reflect variations in the CO2 content of the atmosphere.
ESR spectra of fluorine-containing radicals of phosphorus and arsenic

ESR spectra observed at 120 K in γ-irradiated solid solutions of PF_5 in neopentane and AsF_5 in SF_6 are ascribed to the radical ions PF_5^− and AsF_5^− in which the unpaired electron interacts strongly with the central nucleus and with four equivalent ^(19)F nuclei. Hyperfine interaction with the fifth ^(19)F nucleus was not resolvable in either case. The spectra were quite distinct from those of the tetrafluorides PF_4 and AsF_4, thus eliminating the possibility that they were due to tetrafluoride radicals undergoing rapid intramolecular ^(19)F exchange.
Notch and T cell malignancy

Notch signaling is required for normal T cell development. However, Notch expression must be precisely regulated as constitutive Notch signaling leads to T cell lymphomas. Recent evidence has provided insights into potential mechanisms of Notch-mediated lymphomagenesis and its relationship to T cell development. The evidence suggests that Notch likely interacts with several important cellular pathways and can cooperate with other oncogenes during lymphomagenesis. In particular, Notch appears to modulate pre-TCR signaling, inhibit the E2A pathway, and in murine leukemia models, frequently cooperates with Myc, E2A-PBX and dominant negative Ikaros dysregulation. This review will present current knowledge in these areas and explore theories on Notch-mediated T cell lymphomagenesis.
Learned preference and aversion for complete and isoleucine-devoid diets in rats.

Abstract Choice tests using flavored solutions were conducted to demonstrate a learned preference or aversion in rats fed replete (complete) or isoleucine (ILE)-devoid diets. In the first learning trial, rats demonstrated a preference for the flavored solutions paired with the replete diet at 6 and 24 h ( p p p p
Salt and water balance in the oligohaline clam, Rangia cuneata III. Reduction of the free amino acid pool during low salinity adaptation

During adaptation to low salinity (from 20 to 2 ppt), the estuarine clam Rangia cuneata reduces the size of a pool of free amino acids in adductor muscle fibers, presumably to control cell volume. The levels of both free amino acids and ammonia in the blood increase, but the rise in free amino acids is much greater. While free amino acid excretion is never very great, ammonia excretion rises shortly after valve opening and remains high throughout the period of adaptation Evaluation of the convection capability of the cardiovascular system suggests that the rate of free amino acid excretion cannot explain the loss of these substances as such from the tissues. Conversely, the levels of ammonia in blood cannot explain the rate of excretion. We suggest that most of the free amino acids are extruded from the cells and transported to a central site of deamination, from which ammonia is excreted. In situ deamination in the various tissues may occur after the initial stages of low salinity adjustment, but it never appears to explain the major fraction of ammonia excretion.
Backbone-base interactions critical to quantum stabilization of transfer RNA anticodon structure.

Transfer RNA (tRNA) anticodons adopt a highly ordered 3′-stack without significant base overlap. Density functional theory at the M06-2X/6-31+G(d,p) level in combination with natural bond orbital analysis was utilized to calculate the intramolecular interactions within the tRNA anticodon that are responsible for stabilizing the stair-stepped conformation. Ten tRNA X-ray crystal structures were obtained from the PDB databank and were trimmed to include only the anticodon bases. Hydrogenic positions were added and optimized for the structures in the stair-stepped conformation. The sugar–phosphate backbone has been retained for these calculations, revealing the role it plays in RNA structural stability. It was found that electrostatic interactions between the sugar–phosphate backbone and the base provide the most stability, rather than the traditionally studied interbase stacking. Base-stacking interactions, though present, were weak and inconsistent. Aqueous solvation was found to have little effect on the ...
Molecular Chaperones in Cellular Protein Folding: The Birth of a Field

The early decades of Cell witnessed key discoveries that coalesced into the field of chaperones, protein folding, and protein quality control.
Priority planning of a dynamic complex product mix: Elements for a computerized interface between delivery times and plant utilization

Abstract The priority planning process is both the management of ensuring reliability in confirming delivery times and maximizing plant capacity utilization. A framework is presented for the decision process of order planning in a business environment with a dynamic product mix consisting of both standard and non-standard products and with a limited machine capacity. The concept of a computerized interface between the priority planning process and the confirmed order file is presented. A simulation study is done to determine the relationship between different manufacturing strategies, delivery time policies and plant efficiency. The method is applied to the production of engineering plastic materials.
Solar neutrinos: Theory vs. experiment

Abstract I review the standard solar model, the disparities between its prediction and the solar neutrino flux measurements of the Homestake and Kamioka II collaborations, and possible particle physics resolutions of this puzzle. The effects of matter, including density fluctuations and turbulence, on solar neutrino oscillations are reviewed, including possibilities for generating time variations in the solar neutrino flux. Finally, I consider possible outcomes and implications of the SAGE/GALLEX gallium experiments.