cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
1155 NORMOTRIGLYCERIDEMIC ABETALIPOPROTEINEMIA: FATE OF APOLIPOPROTEIN B OF CHYLOMICRONS

In this disorder (NA), normal plasma low density lipoproteins (LDL) are absent but intestinal absorption of fat is normal. Levels of spherical, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, 300 to 1000 A in diameter, rise markedly in plasma during fat absorption. Though 40% of their protein is insoluble in 4.2M tetramethylurea, it has only limited immunoreactivity with antibodies to apo B of LDL. Its apparent molecular weight (MWapp) in SDS is identical to that of the B-48 protein of normal human chylomicrons and it has a similar amino acid composition. The B-100 protein found in normal very low density lipoproteins and LDL, which has a much larger MWapp, is undetectable. This suggests that the B-48 and B-100 proteins are under separate genetic control and that NA results from selective deletion of the B-100 apolipoprotein. We purified chylomicrons from serum of a patient with NA, labeled them with 131I, reinfused them and isolated B-48 protein from serum lipoproteins by SDS gel electrophoresis. The label disappeared with a t1/2 of 52 minutes. Minimal labeling was detected briefly in lipoproteins of intermediate density (12% of total 131I at 2 minutes, none thereafter) and none in the LDL interval. We conclude that the B-100 apolipoprotein is required for formation of LDL and that the B-48 apoprotein of chylomicrons is not converted to apo B of LDL.
Experimental observations on the relationship between diffusion characteristics and spectral coherence

Abstract The direct relationship of spectral coherence to space-time correlation is used to infer various characteristics of diffusion processes. Data gathered at three levels and at various downwind instrumental separations, along the mean wind direction are analyzed in terms of horizontal coherence of the longitudinal and lateral components of the wind. The analysis is within the framework of Davenport's (Q. Jl R. met. Soc.87, 194–211. 1961) empirical representation of coherence and a semi-empirical formulation of the decay parameter. The characteristics of the decay parameter are found to be consistent with its latest formulation which incorporates the relative importance of turbulent intensity and lateral diffusion. Atmospheric stability is seen to be the controlling factor in the results. The noted characteristics of the decay parameter are used to confirm its inverse relationship to Pasquill's β. This, in turn, confirms the usefulness of the determination of the latter from single point observations. Furthermore, Pasquill's nondimensional lateral dispersion function is shown to be stability dependent which must be borne in mind when calculating the lateral dispersion parameter of Gaussian models.
Alpha rhythms as physiological and abnormal phenomena

There are three physiological alpha rhythms in mature healthy humans: (a) the classical posterior alpha; (b) the Rolandic mu rhythm and (c) the midtemporal 'third rhythm'. The classical posterior alpha rhythm develops out of a 4/s rhythm appearing at age 4 months and gradually reaches the alpha frequency band around age 3 years. The mature frequency around 10/s is subject to subtle physiological changes and grossly decelerates in the face of pathology. No posterior alpha rhythm may be detectable in a minority of healthy adults with an inherited low voltage fast EEG. One is tempted to speculate that these individuals may have a hidden alpha rhythm in neuronal level and defective mechanisms of synchronization. Alpha blocking with visual stimuli (eye opening) is a classical response; responses to mental stimuli (mental arithmetic) are inconsistent, presumably due to the involvement of higher cognitive functions. The Rolandic my rhythm is found with scalp EEG in a minority of subjects but there is good reason to presume that all healthy adults have this rhythm. A particularly powerful mu rhythm reaches the scalp but this could be also an indicator of a mild CNS dysfunction. There is even a relationship between mu rhythm and the central spike activity in children with benign Rolandic epilepsy. The midtemporal third rhythm is not detectable in the scalp EEG unless there are local bone defects. Its functional significance is debatable; its blocking responses encompass various higher cognitive tasks and are inconsistent; responses to auditory stimuli do occur but appear to be of secondary significance. This rhythm arises from midtemporal structures which by far exceed the borders of the auditory cortex. Abnormal rhythmical alpha activity-above all the alpha coma in life-threatening cerebral anoxia -is discussed in order to deepen our understanding of the physiological alpha rhythms. Severe cortical de-afferentation may give rise to cortical autorhythmicity-either in alpha frequency or in other frequency bands. Physiological alpha rhythms are likely to have closer relationships to 'events' than one might have thought earlier. The demonstration of event-related desynchronization and synchronization (in Pfurtscheller's work) clearly underscores this view.
Conditions of a jump of stresses and displacements on a thin viscoelastic inclusion

In the three-dimensional statement, we establish the conditions satisfied by the components of the vector of displacements and stress tensor in an inclusion of the viscoelastic material. For thin inclusions, by using the equations of the linear theory of viscoelasticity, we reduce the proposed dependences to the relationships between the jumps of displacements and stresses on the median surface of the inclusion.
Accurate Time Series Prediction in Reduced StochasticEpidemic Models

We consider a stochastic Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered (SEIR) epidemiological model. Through the use of a normal form coordinate transform, we are able to analytically derive the stochastic center manifold along with the associated, reduced set of stochastic evolution equations. The transformation correctly projects both the dynamics and the noise onto the center manifold. Therefore, the solution of this reduced stochastic dynamical system yields excellent agreement, both in amplitude and phase, with the solution of the original stochastic system for a temporal scale that is orders of magnitude longer than the typical relaxation time. This new method allows for improved time series prediction of the number of infectious cases when modeling the spread of disease in a population. Numerical solutions of the fluctuations of the SEIR model are considered in the infinite population limit using a Langevin equation approach, as well as in a finite population simulated as a Markov process.
Utility of Electrospray Mass Spectrometry for the Characterization of Air-Sensitive Organolanthanides and Related Species1

The utility of electrospray mass spectrometry for the characterization of air-sensitive lanthanide complexes has been examined. A wide variety of lanthanide complexes were studied as acetonitrile solutions, including divalent and trivalent compounds, neutral and cationic species, and complexes with cyclopentadienyl as well as alternative ancillary ligands. The spectra are sensitive to the composition of the complex and the oxidation potential of the lanthanide ion. The [(C5Me5)2Ln][BPh4] (Ln = Nd, Sm, Y, Tm) complexes form the solvated parent ions [(C5Me5)2Ln(MeCN)x]+, whereas [Zr2(OiPr)9]Ln(C5H5) (Ln = Sm, Yb) forms the unsolvated parent ion {[Zr2(OiPr)9]Ln(C5H5)}+. [(C5Me5)2Ln(MeCN)x]+ ions are also observed in the spectra of (C5Me5)2Ln(C3H5) (Ln = Sm, Y) and (C5Me5)2Ln(THF)x (Ln = Sm, Eu, Yb). [(C5Me5)Ln(μ-I)(THF)2]2 (Ln = Sm, Yb, Eu) and LnI2(THF)2 (Ln = Sm, Yb, Eu) gave differing sets of ions, depending on the specific metal. The spectra of bimetallic compounds, [(C5Me5)Ln(THF)x]2(C8H8) (Ln = Sm, Yb)...
Monitoring risk response actions for effective project risk management

Complex projects typically involve high-consequence, project-specific risks that require detailed analysis and for which risk response actions (RRAs) need to be developed and implemented. The risk picture is dynamic. The sources and consequences of risks evolve and change over the project lifecycle; thus, it is necessary to constantly monitor risk. RRAs that do not keep pace with the changing project situation are a major cause of risk management failures. This paper extends traditional cost risk analysis from a purely macroscopic perspective by evaluating and tracking project-specific risks and RRAs at the microscopic level. The key elements of the method are (i) develop risk scenarios, (ii) model them using generalized decision trees, and (iii) quantify the risks using Monte Carlo simulation. For each risk the probability and cost values are conditional on the specific RRA and the preceding outcomes. The use of fractional factorial design provides a subset of all possible RRA combinations for efficiently determining the preferred total project RRA solution. Risk curves are generated to provide the necessary information to analyze, track, and manage the performance of the selected RRAs over time. Project managers and team leaders can use this information to dynamically manage the RRAs to keep pace with the changing project situation, thereby increasing the probability of project success in a cost-effective manner. The approach is detailed using a realistic but simplified case of a project examined first with one and then expanded to three technical risks. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 13
Numerical modelling of a metallic ion sporadic‐E layer

A one-dimensional time-dependent model of the ionosphere has been developed and applied to the study of a metallic ion sporadic-E layer observed in the Aladdin 1 experiment carried out at Eglin AFB, Florida, 20 November 1970. The model develops the molecular ion background ionosphere using a dynamic photochemical calculation from noon to a time near model sunset. A representative metallic ion altitude profile is then introduced, the divergence terms included in the continuity equations, and the integration carried forward. Introducing an ad hoc constant electric field of 2 mv m$sup -1$ directed to the south, the model metallic ion sporadic-E layer forms at the proper altitude and reaches the measured peak density in about a half hour. Changing the initial metallic ion profile changes the time to reach peak density and the degree of asymmetry of the layer, but the layer altitude is determined asymptotically by the location of the convergent node of the vertical ion velocity profile. The background ionospheric density calculated with the model agrees within experimental error with the experimental profile. The calculations support the hypothesis that midlatitude sporadic-E layers are caused by neutral-wind-induced compression of metallic ions resulting from meteoric ablation in the lower E region.more » (auth)« less
Long‐period seismology on Europa: 1. Physically consistent interior models

[1] In order to examine the potential of seismology to determine the interior structure and properties of Europa, it is essential to calculate seismic velocities and attenuation for the range of plausible interiors. We calculate a range of models for the physical structure of Europa, as constrained by the satellite's composition, mass, and moment of inertia. We assume a water-ice shell, a pyrolitic or a chondritic mantle, and a core composed of pure iron or iron plus 20 weight percent of sulfur. We consider two extreme mantle thermal states: hot and cold. Given a temperature and composition, we determine density, seismic velocities, and attenuation using thermodynamical models. While anelastic effects will be negligible in a cold mantle and the brittle part of the ice shell, strong dispersion and dissipation are expected in a hot convective mantle and the bulk of the ice shell. There is a strong relationship between different thermal structures and compositions. The “hot” mantle may maintain temperatures consistent with a liquid core made of iron plus light elements. For the “cold scenarios,” the possibility of a solid iron core cannot be excluded, and it may even be favored. The depths of the ocean and core-mantle boundary are determined with high precision, 10 km and 40 km, respectively, once we assume a composition and thermal structure. Furthermore, the depth of the ocean is relatively insensitive (4 km) to the core composition used.
Transcriptional inhibition and mutagenesis induced by N-nitroso compound-derived carboxymethylated thymidine adducts in DNA

N-nitroso compounds represent a common type of environmental and endogenous DNA-damaging agents. After metabolic activation, many N-nitroso compounds are converted into a diazoacetate intermediate that can react with nucleobases to give carboxymethylated DNA adducts such as N3-carboxymethylthymidine (N3-CMdT) and O4-carboxymethylthymidine (O4-CMdT). In this study, we constructed non-replicative plasmids carrying a single N3-CMdT or O4-CMdT, site-specifically positioned in the transcribed strand, to investigate how these lesions compromise the flow of genetic information during transcription. Our results revealed that both N3-CMdT and O4-CMdT substantially inhibited DNA transcription mediated by T7 RNA polymerase or human RNA polymerase II in vitro and in human cells. In addition, we found that N3-CMdT and O4-CMdT were miscoding lesions and predominantly directed the misinsertion of uridine and guanosine, respectively. Our results also suggested that these carboxymethylated thymidine lesions may constitute efficient substrates for transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair in human cells. These findings provided important new insights into the biological consequences of the carboxymethylated DNA lesions in living cells.
Effect of chronic ethanol ingestion on hepatic and intestinal acyl coenzyme A:Cholesterol acyltransferase and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase in the rat

Two groups of rats were pair-fed diets in which 36% of the calories were provided by either ethanol or dextrimaltose. After 60 days on these liquid diets, rats fed ethanol were significantly smaller than control rats fed dextrimaltose. Serum cholesterol levels in ethanol-fed animals were 20% higher than control rats. Cholestasis was not observed histologically, and serum alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin levels were the same in both groups. The livers of animals ingesting ethanol accumulated triglycerides and cholesterol. The increase in cholesterol was due to an increase in cholesteryl esters. The cholesterol content of liver microsomes, however, was unchanged by ethanol feeding. A small increase in unesterified cholesterol was observed in intestinal micro-somes prepared from animals receiving ethanol. Microsomal fatty acids in liver and intestine were unchanged by the ethanol diet. Chronic ingestion of ethanol in these animals failed to change acyl coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase or 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase activities in the intestine. In contrast, the activities of acyl coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase were significantly increased in the livers of rats receiving ethanol. Thus, the chronic ingestion of ethanol caused a marked accumulation of hepatic cholesteryl esters. This was associated with a significant increase in the activities of enzymes that control the rates of both cholesterol synthesis and cholesterol esterification in the liver. These observed changes in enzyme activities may contribute to the lipid accumulation which occurs in these livers. Chronic ethanol consumption did not alter cholesterol metabolism in the intestine.
Geriatric patient simulations for dental hygiene.

The rapidly increasing number of this country9s elderly requires that dental hygiene students practice the clinical problem-solving skills of information gathering, assessment, and treatment applied to geriatric patients. Computer-based simulations are purported to provide this experience, but little research has been completed with simulations in the education of dental hygienists. This paper summarizes the process used to design, develop, and evaluate a series of eighteen computer-based geriatric simulated patients. It contains a brief description of the simulations and a description of the design, validation, authoring, and formative evaluation phases. The paper also describes the summative evaluation, provides implementation suggestions, and summarizes future directions. The summative evaluation, conducted at four institutions, suggests that computer-based simulations are an effective instructional method as measured by pre/post-tests. The results suggest that simulations can provide a standardized set of geriatric patient experiences. These simulations may prove especially valuable at institutions that are unable to provide clinical geriatric experiences or lack the expertise to conduct a didactic course in geriatrics.
Advanced cryogenic technology for space based infrared surveillance and stored cryogens

Current space cryocooler developments have achieved performance and capability that have made the use of active refrigeration in space missions feasible. Space flight demonstrations baselined and implemented active refrigeration to achieve mission goals. These applications of cryocooler technology validate the improved mission capabilities and reliability and lifetime confidence in active refrigeration in space. Current cryogenic integration and cryocooler development programs address the negative impacts of the cryogenic system on optical space systems including: induced line of sight vibration, longevity, power consumption, mass, thermal transport, thermal storage, and thermal switching. However, the cryogenic cooling requirements for future Air Force systems may require large capacity cryogenic cooling, extremely mass and power efficient mechanical refrigerators, and significant improvements in long term on orbit cryogen storage. The technical efforts at AFRL concentrate on exploratory and advanced development programs that focus on the development of technology from concept and breadboard engineering models to protoflight models that are geared to experimental characterization and technology transition for night demonstrations and, potentially, operational programs. This paper focuses on mid term and out year cooling requirements for the Air Force Space Based Infrared System Low, Space Based Laser, Advanced Space Based Infrared System, and other Department of Defense space missions. In addition, current and planned Air Force programs to address these requirements are outlined.
Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy Study of TAMRA Diffusion in Poly(vinyl-alcohol) and Ficoll70 Solutions

We compare fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) measurements of the fluorescent nanoparticle, TAMRA, diffusing in non-fluorescent -hence invisible- poly(vinyl-alcohol) (PVA) or Ficoll70 solutions as a function of the polymer concentration, c. We determine changes of the translational diffusion coefficient of TAMRA and fit the data with the universal scaling law (D ∼ exp[−α(c/c*)ν], to extract information about solvent quality. For PVA, we find ν = 0.74, suggesting that water in this case acts as a good solvent, whereas ν = 1.02 in Ficoll70 solutions, indicating theta-like behavior.
Mortality Associated with Drug Misuse among Blacks in New York City, 1979–1981

A comparison of age-specific death rates from “drug dependence” (ICD 304) among Blacks and Whites in New York City for 1979–1981 found two distinct patterns of mortality. Blacks have higher levels of mortality which extend from the central adult years into middle age while deaths among Whites are confined largely to the younger years (below 35). Among both racial groups, mortality is much higher for males than for females. When male undercount is “corrected,” the ratios between male and female deaths are smaller. The difference in economic opportunities for Whites and Blacks is suggested as a reason why Whites “age out” of the years of highest risk before Blacks.
A Practical Operation Strategy for STATCOM under Single Line to Ground Faults in the Power System

The STATCOM (synchronous static compensator) based on voltage source converter (VSC) is used for voltage regulation in transmission and distribution systems. The STATCOM can rapidly supply dynamic VARs required during system faults for voltage support. Strict requirements of STATCOM losses and total system loss penalty preclude the use of PWM (pulse-width modulation) for VSC based STATCOM applications. This constraint of implementing VSC without PWM functionality, results in over-currents and trips of the STATCOM during and after system faults, when its VAR support functionality is most required. In this paper, we propose and develop an "emergency PWM" strategy to prevent over-currents (and trips) in the VSC during and after single line to ground system faults, and to ensure that the STATCOM supplies required reactive power. The operational results for a 48-pulse VSC based 150 MVAR STATCOM are presented to illustrate the problem during and after a system fault, and motivation for this work. Simulation results are presented for a 48-pulse VSC based 100 MVAR STATCOM connected to a 2-bus power system. Simulation results validate the "emergency PWM" strategy to prevent VSC over-currents and to supply required reactive power under a single line to ground system faults
Ajeno a la Modernidad: la racionalización de la discriminación

En la introduccion al reporte de la Comision Peruana de reconciliacion y verdad, publicado en 2003, Salomon Lerner, presidente de la misma en su momento, deja ver su disgusto con respecto a la historia de discriminacion en su pais. Acusa al ejercito y a la fuerza publica por un lado y a la insurgencia por el otro, de cometer atrocidades y masacres durante la Guerra Civil de la decada de 1980 y comienzos de 1990 en la cual se estima que unas 69.000 personas fueron asesinadas o desaparecieron y miles fueron forzados a abandonar la region sur-central de sierra.
Linear free energy relationships in the Bergman cyclization of 4-substituted-1,2-diethynylbenzenes

Abstract A series of 4-substituted-1,2-diethylnylbenzenes were prepared ( 1a – f ) and subjected to Bergman cyclization. Bulk cyclization proceeded to produce the corresponding 2-substituted naphthalenes ( 2a – f ) in good yields (59–78%). Kinetic experiments show a linear free energy relationship between the cyclization rate and the Hammett σ m substituent coefficient and the Swain–Lupton field and resonance parameters.
A Review of Multidisciplinary Interventions in Atopic Dermatitis

Multidisciplinary interventions have been developed for patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and their families, with the aim of improving outcomes such as disease control, adherence, and quality of life. We reviewed the content of different multidisciplinary approaches to intervention for AD and evidence for their impact on key outcome measures. We also provided data from our multidisciplinary outpatient program for pediatric AD. Studies included in the review suggest benefits of multidisciplinary interventions as models of treatment or adjuncts to standard medical care, with a positive impact on outcomes including disease severity and itching/scratching. There were limitations to existing studies, including heterogeneous methods used to assess quality of life outcomes across studies and lack of controlled studies assessing the outcome of clinical care programs. Further research will be useful in assessing the impact of multidisciplinary interventions on important outcomes such as treatment adherence and sleep, identifying the elements of multidisciplinary interventions that are most critical for improved outcomes, and identifying the best candidates for multidisciplinary intervention approaches.
Hybrid Integrated Optoelectronics: Thin Film Devices Bonded to Host Substrates

The single material approach to integrated optoelectronics has been augmented by research into multi-material, or hybrid integration of compound semiconductor optoelectronic devices with host substrates which include silicon circuits and waveguiding/switching materials. In this paper, one such method of integrating compound semiconductor electronics with silicon circuits and other arbitrary host substrate materials is explored.
Procedure for Applying Second-Order Conditions in Optimal Control Problems

A recent advance in sufe cient conditions for a weak local minimum in the Bolza optimal control problem is used to develop a practical procedure for applying second-order necessary conditions and sufe cient conditions. For a system with n state variables, a transition matrix method is used to transform a test for the unboundedness of an n £ n matrix solution of a Riccati equation into a test for a scalar being zero. This allows routine testing of second-order conditions, including the Jacobi no-conjugate-point necessary condition. Four example problems are analyzed: a simple minimum-time problem, the shortest path between two points on a sphere, a multiobjective spacecraft trajectory optimization, and an application of Hamilton’ s Principle to a circular orbit in an inversesquare gravitational e eld. In those examples for which second-order conditions are violated and an analytical solution does not exist, a genetic algorithm is used to determine a near-optimal solution.
Evolution of Animal and Plant Dicers: Early Parallel Duplications and Recurrent Adaptation of Antiviral RNA Binding in Plants

RNA interference (RNAi) is a eukaryotic molecular system that serves two primary functions: 1) gene regulation and 2) protection against selfish elements such as viruses and transposable DNA. Although the biochemistry of RNAi has been detailed in model organisms, very little is known about the broad-scale patterns and forces that have shaped RNAi evolution. Here, we provide a comprehensive evolutionary analysis of the Dicer protein family, which carries out the initial RNA recognition and processing steps in the RNAi pathway. We show that Dicer genes duplicated and diversified independently in early animal and plant evolution, coincident with the origins of multicellularity. We identify a strong signature of long-term protein-coding adaptation that has continually reshaped the RNA-binding pocket of the plant Dicer responsible for antiviral immunity, suggesting an evolutionary arms race with viral factors. We also identify key changes in Dicer domain architecture and sequence leading to specialization in either gene-regulatory or protective functions in animal and plant paralogs. As a whole, these results reveal a dynamic picture in which the evolution of Dicer function has driven elaboration of parallel RNAi functional pathways in animals and plants.
Analytical Models for Epidemics in Mobile Networks

Mobile computer networks are formed by portable electronic devices like cellphones or laptops that can establish transient, point-to-point communication links using short- range radios. To model the spread of viruses across these networks, we must explicitly account for node movement and non-homogeneous connectivity distributions. Using coupled differential equations, we introduce a new epidemiological model for mobile networks, finding that increased node velocities lead to more virulent epidemics. We also introduce a stochastic model which is more suitable for networks containing few hosts.
An Upper Division General Education Course on Materials for Non-Engineering Students

We present the structure of a new course which is designed to expose junior and senior level undergraduates in non-engineering fields to materials. Washington State University has a “General Education” requirement, which requires students to take a variety of courses including the area of sciences, humanities, and technology. We have developed this course to satisfy the requirement for technology for upper division students. The results of the enrollment over the past 3 years are presented: each semester more majors are taking the course, suggesting it is reaching an multidisciplinary audience. Comments from the students and plans for the future are discussed.
Building Interdisciplinary Research Models Through Interactive Education

Background Critical interdisciplinary research skills include effective communication with diverse disciplines and cultivating collaborative relationships. Acquiring these skills during graduate education may foster future interdisciplinary research quality and productivity. Objective The project aim was to develop and evaluate an interactive Toolbox workshop approach within an interprofessional graduate level course to enhance student learning and skill in interdisciplinary research. We sought to examine the student experience of integrating the Toolbox workshop in modular format over the duration of a 14-week course. Methods The Toolbox Health Sciences Instrument includes six modules that were introduced in a 110-minute dialogue session during the first class and then integrated into the course in a series of six individual workshops in three phases over the course of the semester. Results Seventeen students participated; the majority were nursing students. Three measures were used to assess project outcomes: pre–post intervention Toolbox survey, competency self-assessment, and a postcourse survey. All measures indicated the objectives were met by a change in survey responses, improved competencies, and favorable experience of the Toolbox modular intervention. Conclusion Our experience indicates that incorporating this Toolbox modular approach into research curricula can enhance individual level scientific capacity, future interdisciplinary research project success, and ultimately impact on practice and policy. Clin Trans Sci 2015; Volume #: 1–7
Abstract LB-403: Levels of nitric oxide and prostate cancer development in healthy US men enrolled in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Nitric oxide (NO) has a strong impact on cancer development. Experimental studies have reported that, depending on levels, NO has either tumoricidal or tumor-promoting effects. In addition, NO is strongly associated with oxidative and inflammatory pathways, which have been implicated in prostate cancer. In general, maintaining normal-range levels of NO is important for physiological function and may actually have tumoricidal effects. Furthermore, extremely high levels of NO have been found to stimulate prostate tumor growth in rats. However, the relationship between plasma NO level and risk of prostate cancer (PCa) development has not been assessed. NO is difficult to measure directly in large epidemiologic studies. This barrier has hampered the identification of NO-related pathways in cancer development. We have found that plasma levels of nitrite/nitrate, measured as a surrogate marker of NO, are both stable and reproducible within individuals over time. Using a prospective nested case-control design, we identified 600 PCa cases and 600 matched controls from 2000-2004 among men who provided a blood sample in 1993-1995. This study is nested within a blood cohort in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. We have already measured baseline plasma levels of nitrite/nitrate in 170 cases and 170 controls. The multivariate-adjusted odds ratio of nitrite/nitrate from quintile 2-quintile 4 as compared to quintile 1 are 0.71 (95%CI, 0.24-2.75), 0.20 (95%CI, 0.05-0.75), 0.81 (95%CI, 0.30-2.91), and 1.12 (95%CI, 0.65-2.78), respectively. Our preliminary data suggest that medium levels of nitrite/nitrate maximally reduce the risk of prostate cancer, and that men with high or low levels of nitrite/nitrate may be at elevated risk of prostate cancer. Confirming our results in our remaining samples and other populations may have important implications for prevention of prostate cancer. Note: This abstract was not presented at the AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010 because the presenter was unable to attend. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-403.
Comparison of Performance on Multiple-Choice Questions and Open-Ended Questions in an Introductory Astronomy Laboratory.

Students answer multiple-choice questions correctly without being able to adequately justify their answer.
Challenges for case-control studies with microbiome data.

Abstract Purpose In case-control studies of the human microbiome, the goal is to evaluate whether cases differ from controls in the microbiome composition of a particular body habitat and which taxa are responsible for the differences. These studies leverage sequencing technology and spectroscopy that provide new measurements of the microbiome. Methods Three challenges in conducting reproducible microbiome research using a case-control design are compensating for differences in observed and actual microbial community composition, detecting “rare” taxa in microbial communities, and choosing properly powered analysis methods. The significance of each challenge, evaluation of commonly held views, analysis of unanswered questions, and suggestions of strategies for solutions are discussed. Results Understanding the effects of these choices on case-control analyses has been underappreciated, with an implicit assumption that further advances in technology will address all the current shortcomings. Conclusions It is recommended that research on the human microbiome include positive and negative control experiments to provide insight into bias, contamination, and technical variation. Research protocols such as these may afford a better opportunity to make quantitative and qualitative adjustments to data, thereby reducing the risk of falsely positive results, increasing power to discover true disease determinants, and enhancing interpretation across studies.
Light Emission near a Gradient Metasurface

Gradient metasurfaces have recently emerged as a powerful tool for the control of externally incident optical wavefronts. Here we present a theoretical study showing how they can also dramatically modify the radiation properties of light emitters located in their near-field zone. First, the spontaneous emission decay of a dipole source can be greatly accelerated through near-field interactions involving evanescent waves at the metasurface, by an amount that depends on the dipole lateral position in an oscillatory fashion. Second, as a result of these interactions, highly asymmetric directional radiation patterns can be produced in the far field, with broad geometrical tunability of the angle of peak emission. Furthermore, the total output radiation power can be increased in the case of low-efficiency emitters or quenched in favor of directional excitation of surface waves depending on the metasurface phase gradient. These phenomena could not be explained simply in terms of anomalous reflection of external...
Evidence for the role of microRNA 374b in acquired cisplatin resistance in pancreatic cancer cells

Recent evidence has implicated microRNAs (miRNAs) as potentially significant players in the acquisition of cancer-drug resistance in pancreatic and other cancers. To evaluate the potential contribution of miRNAs in acquired resistance to cisplatin in pancreatic cancer, we compared levels of more than 2000 human miRNAs in a cisplatin-resistant cell line (BxPC3-R) derived from parental (BxPC3) cells by step-wise exposure to increasing concentrations of the drug over more than 20 passages. The acquired drug resistance was accompanied by significant changes in the expression of 57 miRNAs, of which 23 were downregulated and 34 were upregulated. Employing a hidden Markov model (HMM) algorithm, we identified downregulation of miR-374b as likely being directly involved in acquisition of the drug-resistant phenotype. Consistent with this prediction, ectopic overexpression of miR-374b in the resistant BxPC3-R cells restored cisplatin sensitivity to levels approaching those displayed by the BxPC3 parental cells. The results are consistent with a growing body of evidence implicating miRNAs in acquired cancer-drug resistance and with the potential therapeutic value of these small regulatory RNAs in blocking and/or reversing the process.
Unraveling the evolution of uniquely human cognition

A satisfactory account of human cognitive evolution will explain not only the psychological mechanisms that make our species unique, but also how, when, and why these traits evolved. To date, researchers have made substantial progress toward defining uniquely human aspects of cognition, but considerably less effort has been devoted to questions about the evolutionary processes through which these traits have arisen. In this article, I aim to link these complementary aims by synthesizing recent advances in our understanding of what makes human cognition unique, with theory and data regarding the processes of cognitive evolution. I review evidence that uniquely human cognition depends on synergism between both representational and motivational factors and is unlikely to be accounted for by changes to any singular cognitive system. I argue that, whereas no nonhuman animal possesses the full constellation of traits that define the human mind, homologies and analogies of critical aspects of human psychology can be found in diverse nonhuman taxa. I suggest that phylogenetic approaches to the study of animal cognition—which can address questions about the selective pressures and proximate mechanisms driving cognitive change—have the potential to yield important insights regarding the processes through which the human cognitive phenotype evolved.
What is the most effective treatment of children with severe aplastic anemia who lack a matched sibling donor

The most effective treatment currently available for children with severe aplastic anemia is bone marrow transplantation using a sibling donor who is completely matched with the patient at the major histocompatibility complex. Only a minority of patients, however, will have such a donor and other treatments which have been used include the use of single agent immunosuppression, multi-agent immunosuppression, multi-agent immunosuppression with hemopoietic growth factors, and the use of allogeneic stem cell transplantation using mismatched family members, unrelated individuals or placental blood. Of these approaches the most promising appears to be the use of combination immunosuppressive therapy plus hemopoietic growth factors. This paper reviews the current results obtained in using these various methods of treating children with severe aplastic anemia who lack a matched sibling donor.
An Approach for Assessing the Long-Term Reliability of Lead-Free Electronics Under In-Field Conditions

For many microelectronic products, the long-term in-field life may be limited by thermal-mismatch-induced fatigue, a factor generally assessed by accelerated thermal cycling and extrapolation of the test results to in-field use conditions. For this purpose, thermal cycling tests are accelerated strongly by the use of larger temperature ranges, shorter dwell times at the maximum and minimum temperatures, and often, higher ramp rates than encountered in-field. The sensitivities of common lead-free solder joints to these factors and their interactions with a range of designs, materials, and process parameters are very different from those of the Sn–Pb joints that have been in use for decades. Systematic research efforts are currently aimed at the establishment of new test protocols and acceleration factors; such work has already shown lead-free solder joints to be much more sensitive to the dwell times in testing, but extrapolations of this dependence to in-field conditions remain complicated by interactions with design parameters, as well as with the more obvious effects of cycling parameters. Neural network analysis offers important advantages for the recognition of patterns, correlations, and trends among empirical accelerated test results, but it usually does not lead to the kind of mechanistic understanding required for extrapolations. Nevertheless, as part of a larger effort to develop tools for the ongoing analysis and generalization of major databases, we identified a systematic trend that should be useful in life assessment. This is particularly important because it contradicts predictions, based on widely used models, of a more problematic behavior. In short, we shall suggest a practical approach to the assessment of the effect of time at operating temperature on the life of lead-free solder joints in-field.
INVITED EDITORIAL COMMENT: Mathematics and Economics: A Reality Check

1. Marcos Lopez de Prado 1. is a senior managing director at Guggenheim Partners in New York, NY, and a research fellow at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in Berkeley, CA. (lopezdeprado{at}lbl.gov) Economics (and, by extension, finance) is arguably one of the most mathematical
Developing SCAPE Microscopy for Real-time, 3D Cellular Imaging at the Point-of-Care

SCAPE microscopy allows real-time 3D visualization of intact human tissues at cellular resolution using autofluorescence or topical/intravenous dyes. We are developing a portable clinical SCAPE system suitable for open/laparoscopic surgery and surveillance of accessible tissues.
Biocontrol: Crown-of-thorns no more

The starfish Acanthaster planci destroys coral reefs. Whole- genome sequences provide clues to the proteins that mediate A. planci outbreaks — information that might be used to help protect coral. See Letter p.231 Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) are a predator of reef-building corals throughout the Indo-Pacific, where population outbreaks have led to loss of coral cover and biodiversity. Bernie Degnan and colleagues now report sequencing of the genomes of two COTS, Acanthaster planci, from the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the reefs of Okinawa, Japan. They also sequenced transcriptomes from several external tissues and organs, and examined secreted proteins released into the water by aggregated or alarmed COTS. The genomic insights provided by this study may help to guide development of targeted treatments for reef-threatening outbreaks of the predatory starfish.
The Yakima/Klickitat Fisheries Project: A Strategy for Supplementation of Anadromous Salmonids

Abstract On 15 October 1987, the Northwest Power Planning Council approved a master plan for the Yakima/Klickitat Fisheries Project. The purpose of this unique experimental project was to increase both natural production and harvest of anadromous salmonids in the Yakima and Klickitat rivers, major tributaries of the Columbia River system, through supplementation and habitat protection. The Bonneville Power Administration provides general management of the project, and funds construction and operation with revenues from Pacific Northwest electric rate payers. Studies indicate that egg incubation, rearing, and out-planting facilities in the Yakima and Klickitat subbasins will supplement natural production and increase harvest benefits. We summarize predesign studies requested by the Council as necessary to precede construction and discuss the uncertainties and concerns associated with the project. This experimental approach to supplementation may provide information useful for rebuilding salmonid stocks in ...
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE IN THE 19TH CENTURY: EVIDENCE FROM THE CHESAPEAKE AND OHIO CANAL COMPANY

Presenting evidence from a 19th century corporation, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company (C&O), the paper shows that issues of corporate governance have existed since the first corporations were established in the U.S. The C&O used a stockholder review committee to review the annual report of the president and directors. The paper shows how the C&O stockholders used this committee to supplement the corporate governance structure. The corporate governance structure of the C&O is also viewed from a theoretical structure as espoused by Hart [1995].
Plugging Leaks: The Necessity of Distinguishing Whistleblowers and Wrongdoers in the Free Flow of Information Act

In the world of elite journalism, there is no question that anonymous sources are essential to groundbreaking stories. Under the mask of anonymity, confidential sources have revealed everything from government scandals to steroid use by professional athletes.1 Some of these sources would lose their jobs if their names were revealed with the stories they leak.2 Some simply prefer to keep their identity a secret. Regardless of the circumstances, these sources rely on journalists’ promises of confidentiality.3
Free-space coupled silicon photonic crystal refractometric membrane sensors

We report free-space coupled single-layer and coupled bi-layer silicon photonic crystal refractive index sensing schemes to simultaneously achieve extremely high quality factor Q > 107 and high sensitivity S of 800–900 nm/RIU, with corresponding theoretical detection limit around 10−8 RIU. Experimentally demonstrated detection limit of 10−6 RIU was achieved.
Consumer decisions to repair mobile phones and manufacturer pricing policies: The concept of value leakage

Abstract Mobile phones have become ‘essential-to-have’ devices for information-gathering and social communication. They are being technologically advanced, while they are readily available at affordable prices. This motivates consumers to upgrade their mobile phones more frequently. Given these considerations and the lack of accessible repair services, mobile phones have a relatively short life span. The underuse of mobile phones, despite the fact that they are made durable, may result in losses or value leakage. In this study, a probabilistic approach is proposed to quantify the value leakage that may occur due to consumer’s decision to not repair broken mobile phones and simply replace them with new ones. A group of 208 mobile phone users has been surveyed to capture consumer’s time-dependent willingness-to-pay for repair services. Then, consumer’s repair behavior is combined with manufacturer’s repair service pricing strategies to calculate the probability of repair or replacement decisions over the life span of mobile phones. Finally, the total expected leakage risk is derived for both consumers and manufacturers. For illustrative purposes, it is shown that a manufacturer may lose up to 331 million dollars over a period of five years due to consumers’ decisions to not repair their cracked-screen mobile phones and switch to another brand.
Repairing the corneal epithelium using limbal stem cells or alternative cell-based therapies

Introduction: The corneal epithelium is maintained by limbal stem cells (LSCs) that reside in the basal epithelial layer of the tissue surrounding the cornea termed the limbus. Loss of LSCs results...
The Pharmacology of Ftorafur (R, S-1-(Tetrahydro-2-Furanyl)-5-Fluorouracil)

Ftorafur (FT) was synthesized in the Soviet Union in 1966, as part of a program searching for fluorinated pyrimidines with an improved therapeutic index over that of 5-fluorouracil (FU) [29]. It bears structural resemblance to FU and 5-fluorodeoxy-uridine (FUdR), the two fluorinated pyrimidine antimetabolites in clinical use. It has been proposed that FT is metabolically activated in vivo and represents a chemical depot form of FU [12, 20, 21, 25, 34, 46, 47, 54, 56]. Clinically, FT has shown activity similar to that of FU, but it is less toxic to the bone marrow [27, 35, 58]. The reduced myelosuppression of FT has prompted clinical trials, first in the Soviet Union and Japan, and more recently in the United States [28]. However, the high neurotoxicity of FT may limit its widespread clinical use in the future [35, 58].