cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Approach to stage IV non-small-cell lung cancer: how to select among first-line therapy options?

Purpose of review There are several first-line systemic therapy options for patients with newly diagnosed stage IV non-small-cell lung cancer. Targeted therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors provide a good first option for some. Unfortunately, most patients do not have an alteration for which there is an available tyrosine kinase inhibitor. For these patients there are immunotherapy and chemoimmunotherapy options; however, there is debate about how to choose amongst these treatments for a given individual. This review attempts to simplify this decision-making process. Recent findings The data on first-line immunotherapy and chemoimmunotherapy regimens is highlighted. Programed death ligand-1 cut-points and how these may influence therapy decision making are discussed. Molecular markers that may help predict benefit or lack thereof in patients treated with immunotherapy regimens are touched upon. Summary Provided is a guide for the practicing clinician to help them select amongst immunotherapy and chemoimmunotherapy options for a given patient.
Change-Makers: A Grassroots Approach to Culturally Responsive Leadership and Teaching

While achievement and opportunity gaps and systemic racism exist in the majority of school districts across the United States, not every school district authentically acknowledges and addresses the...
Water vapor oxidation behaviors of nuclear graphite IG-110 for a postulated accident scenario in high temperature gas-cooled reactors

Abstract Water leakage in accidental conditions of high temperature gas-cooled reactors is one of the most critical problems that can compromise the integrity of different nuclear components. In this study, oxidation behaviors of nuclear graphite IG-110 in water ingress accidental conditions were investigated. Mass loss and oxidation rates were evaluated after oxidation tests at temperatures up to 1400 °C in an Ar-20 vol% H2O mixed atmosphere. The activation energy decreased from 318.6 to 148.9 kJ/mol with temperature, indicating two different oxidation regimes. The cross-sections of the oxidized samples were systematically characterized. The corresponding logarithmic porosity profiles showed a temperature dependency. Pore formation moved toward near-surface regions with increasing temperature and preferential binder oxidation, with filler particle degradation. Furthermore, oxidant concentration profiles and oxidation depths were estimated using a theoretical model and compared with the experimental results. This work provides important benchmark data and safety analysis guidance for the accident scenario in high temperature gas-cooled reactors.
Inhibition by Potassium of Arteriosclerosis and Atherosclerotic Lesion Formation

The laboratory studies described in previous chapters suggest that small elevations of extracellular potassium concentration can affect the cells of the vascular system in ways that could provide protection against development of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. The affected mechanisms include: 1) platelet aggregation, 2) free radical formation from monocytes, macrophages and other cells, 3) vascular smooth muscle cell migration, and 4) vascular smooth muscle proliferation. In the one laboratory study conducted specifically to determine if alteration of potassium concentration resulting from dietary modification could affect development of vascular lesions, we found that reduction in intake significantly increased the occurrence of coronary artery lesions characterized by foam cell formation, lesions similar to early arteriosclerosis in human coronary artery disease. No investigations in man have tested specifically for a similar relationship, but inferences can be made from studies of cardiovascular disease incidence such as the SHEP study in which potassium concentration was measured and found to be inversely related to occurrence of cardiovascular events that are caused by atherosclerotic vascular disease. Additionally, scores of studies of incidence of cardiovascular disease in primitive populations and in sub-populations within Western cultures have reported the coincidence of low eates of cardiovascular disease and high potassium intake in the die.
Time hacking: how technologies mediate time

Technologies change users’ existing social, cultural, and material practices by providing new opportunities for reflecting on and managing their lives. As technological advancements pervade our pri...
Electrical Control of Escherichia coli Growth Measured with Simultaneous Modulation and Imaging.

Background: The use of electricity to mediate bacterial growth is unique in providing spatial control, but requires a more detailed understanding. Methods: We use two gold wires on a glass coversli...
Modulating electrode utilization in lithium-ion cells with silicon-bearing anodes

Abstract The stability of silicon-containing anodes can, in principle, be extended by constraining these electrodes to limited states of lithiation. Partial utilization of the anode lessens the volume changes experienced by silicon particles during cycling, which can mitigate mechanisms of performance degradation. In full-cells, anode utilization can be modulated by adjusting the relative capacities of the negative and positive electrodes – the N/P ratio. Here, we examine how the N/P ratio affects the long-term stability of Si-based full-cells, and investigate how this parameter would impact the cost and energy of realistic Li-ion cells. We show that, for some configurations, cell failure due to rapid anode degradation can only by avoided at higher N/P ratios. The price of this enhanced stability is accelerated impedance rise at the cathode. Surprisingly, when electrode expansion is taken into account, increasing N/P ratio can actually increase the specific energy and energy density of silicon-rich Li-ion cells.
Vanderbilt University Medical Center Ambulatory Teleneurology COVID-19 Experience

Background: Telehealth has proliferated since the 1950s, but adoption and coverage of telehealth services for the U.S. public have been slow. In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the federal government has implemented temporary policy changes that removed barriers and catalyzed the unprecedented adoption of telehealth. Methods: To assess ambulatory teleneurology satisfaction, we analyzed postvisit questionnaire data from patients and clinicians who completed teleneurology visits during the COVID-19 pandemic at Vanderbilt University Medical Center Department of Neurology (VUMC). Results: From March 18 to May 8, 2020, VUMC completed 3,935 teleneurology visits. More than 97% of patients were very highly or highly confident in the telehealth care they received, whereas almost 99% of clinicians were very likely or somewhat likely to recommend telehealth to other clinicians. Conclusions: Teleneurology satisfaction at VUMC has been positive, and going forward, we must advance upon this unprecedented adoption of telehealth and never revert to former restrictive policies.
Environmental interplay: Stromal cells and biomaterial composition influence in the glioblastoma microenvironment.

Abstract Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most deadly form of brain cancer. Recurrence is common, and established therapies have not been able to significantly extend overall patient survival. One platform through which GBM research can progress is to design biomimetic systems for discovery and investigation into the mechanisms of invasion, cellular properties, as well as the efficacy of therapies. In this review, 2D and 3D GBM in vitro cultures will be discussed. We focus on the effects of biomaterial properties, interactions between stromal cells, and vascular influence on cancer cell survival and progression. This review will summarize critical findings in each of these areas and how they have led to a more comprehensive scientific understanding of GBM. Statement of significance Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most deadly form of brain cancer. Recurrence is common, and established therapies have not been able to significantly extend overall patient survival. One platform through which GBM research can progress is to design biomimetic systems for discovery and investigation into the mechanisms of invasion, cellular properties, as well as the efficacy of therapies. In this review, 2D and 3D GBM in vitro cultures will be discussed. We focus on the effects of biomaterial properties, interactions between stromal cells and vascular influence on cancer cell survival and progression. This review will summarize critical findings in each of these areas and how they have lead to a more comprehensive scientific understanding of GBM.
Residual Income Risk, Intrinsic Values, and Share Prices

Empirical accounting research provides surprisingly little evidence on whether accounting earnings numbers capture cross-sectional differences in risk that are associated with cross-sectional differences in share prices. We address two questions regarding the risk-relevance of accounting numbers: (1) Are accounting-related risk measures (i.e., the systematic risk and total volatility in a firm's time-series of residual return on equity) associated with the market's assessment and pricing of equity risk? and (2) If so, are these accounting-related risk measures incrementally associated with the market's assessment and pricing of equity risk beyond other observable factors, such as those in the Fama-French (1992) three-factor model? We develop an accounting fundamentals-based measure of the market's pricing of risk - the difference between actual share price and a residual income valuation model estimate of share value using risk-free rates of return. Our results show that both systematic risk and total volatility in residual return on equity partially explain this pricing differential, and that the explanatory power of total volatility is incremental to the Fama-French factors - market beta, firm size, and the market-to-book ratio.
Convection Heat Transfer

As we consider simultaneous fluid flow and heat transfer in porous media, the role of the macroscopic (Darcean) and microscopic (pore-level) velocity fields on the temperature field needs to be examined. Experiments have shown that the mere inclusion of u D · ∇ 〈T〉 in the energy equation does not satisfactorily account for all the hydrodynamic effects. The pore-level hydrodynamics also influence the temperature field. Inclusion of the effect of the pore-level velocity nonuniformity on the temperature distribution (called the dispersion effect and generally included in the diffusion transport) is the main concern in this chapter.
Engineered Nanoparticles with Decoupled Photocatalysis and Wettability for Membrane-Based Desalination and Separation of Oil-Saline Water Mixtures.

Membrane-based separation technologies are the cornerstone of remediating unconventional water sources, including brackish and industrial or municipal wastewater, as they are relatively energy-efficient and versatile. However, membrane fouling by dissolved and suspended substances in the feed stream remains a primary challenge that currently prevents these membranes from being used in real practices. Thus, we directly address this challenge by applying a superhydrophilic and oleophobic coating to a commercial membrane surface which can be utilized to separate and desalinate an oil and saline water mixture, in addition to photocatalytically degrading the organic substances. We fabricated the photocatalytic membrane by coating a commercial membrane with an ultraviolet (UV) light-curable adhesive. Then, we sprayed it with a mixture of photocatalytic nitrogen-doped titania (N-TiO2) and perfluoro silane-grafted silica (F-SiO2) nanoparticles. The membrane was placed under a UV light, which resulted in a chemically heterogeneous surface with intercalating high and low surface energy regions (i.e., N-TiO2 and F-SiO2, respectively) that were securely bound to the commercial membrane surface. We demonstrated that the coated membrane could be utilized for continuous separation and desalination of an oil–saline water mixture and for simultaneous photocatalytic degradation of the organic substances adsorbed on the membrane surface upon visible light irradiation.
A Problem for Prior

A sentential Quantification is one which binds letters (more generally: terms used as quantificational indices) in positions accessible to sentences. The instances (specifications by substituttion) of sentential quantifications are the sentences which result from replacing such letters by sentences.
DO ANTHOCYANINS FUNCTION AS OSMOREGULATORS IN LEAF TISSUES

Abstract Water stress can be induced in plant tissues, directly or indirectly, by a number of environmental conditions. Plants exposed to drought, heat, cold, wind, flooding, or saline conditions often synthesize foliar anthocyanins in response. Although previously thought to function as a UV screen, anthocyanins may instead serve to decrease leaf osmotic potential. The resulting depression of leaf water potential could increase water uptake and/or reduce transpirational losses. Combined with other anti-stress activities attributed to anthocyanins (including their solar shield and antioxidative capacities), this phenomenon may allow anthocyanin-containing leaves to tolerate suboptimal water levels. The often transitory nature of foliar anthocyanin accumulation may allow plants to respond quickly and temporarily to environmental variability rather than through more permanent anatomical or morphological modifications.
Social Learning Theory

Social learning theory utilizes precise descriptions of dyadic relationships and other larger system dynamics that are present in families with adolescents. Similar to other theoretical perspectives that claim more individual psychological origins, however, this theoretical approach is not given extensive coverage in the family theory literature. The present chapter discusses how social learning theory focuses attention on the ways in which adolescent and parent behaviors are both learned and reinforced – both positively or negatively – by family members and other socializing agents. The review of empirical evidence supporting the use of this conceptual approach to families with adolescents reveals a literature that is rather well-developed, and forms the basis for a number of prevention and intervention based efforts that are based on the social learning perspective.
The use of statins in patients with heart failure: more questions than answers

The use of statins to treat patients with heart failure (HF) is controversial due to conflicting results from large, prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trials and other smaller studies. A recent comprehensive, well-conducted meta-analysis from Preiss and colleagues sought to determine whether statin therapy had an effect on major HF outcomes such as hospitalization and death. Although the study demonstrated a significant effect of statin therapy on HF hospitalizations, several limitations involving the participant data and nature of statin used in the analyzed trials raise questions about the inferences that can be drawn from the study results.
Pex5p binding affinities for canonical and noncanonical PTS1 peptides

The majority of proteins targeted to the peroxisomal lumen contain a C-terminal peroxisomal targeting signal-1 (PTS1) that is bound by the peroxin Pex5p. The PTS1 is generally regarded as a C-terminal tripeptide that adheres to the consensus (S/A/C)(K/R/H)(L/M). Previously, we studied the binding affinity of peptides of the form YQX(-3)X(-2)X(-1) to the peptide-binding domain of human Pex5p (referred to as Pex5p-C). Optimal affinity was found for YQSKL, which bound with an affinity of 200 +/- 40 nM. To extend this work, we investigated the properties of a peptide containing the last 9 residues of acyl-CoA oxidase (RHYLKPLQSKL) and discovered that it binds to Pex5p-C with a dissociation constant of 1.4 +/- 0.4 nM, 180 times tighter than YQSKL. Further analysis revealed that the enhanced affinity is primarily due to the presence of leucine in the (-5) position. In addition, a peptide corresponding to the luciferase C-terminus (YKGGKSKL) was found to bind Pex5p-C about 20 times tighter than YQSKL. The majority of this effect results from having lysine in position (-4). Catalase contains a noncanonical PTS1 (-AREKANL). The affinity of YQANL was found to be 3600 +/- 400 nM. This relatively weak binding is consistent with previous unsuccessful attempts to direct chloramphenicol acetyltransferase to the peroxisome by fusing -ANL to its C-terminus (-GGA-ANL). The peptides YKANL, YEKANL, YREKANL, and YAREKANL all bound Pex5p-C with higher affinities than did YQANL, but the affinities are still lower than peptides that correspond to functional targeting signals in other contexts. Because both catalase and Pex5p are tetramers (as opposed to the monomeric Pex5p-C and the peptides used in our studies), multidentate effects on binding affinity between Pex5p and other oligomeric proteins should be considered. Our study provides direct thermodynamic data revealing that peptide binding to Pex5p-C binding is favored by lysine in the (-4) position and leucine in the (-5) position. Our results suggest that peptides or proteins with optimized residues in the (-4) and/or (-5) positions can bind to Pex5p with affinities that are at least two orders of magnitude greater than that of YQSKL, and that this stabilization can compensates for otherwise weakly binding PTS1s.
The Business Ethic in Public Sector Catering

Consecutive Conservative governments since 1979 have emphasised the need for greater cost-efficiency in the provision of public services. This article places recent developments in public sector catering in this wider context. It considers the manner in which government policy towards public sector catering has affected organisational and technical change in this area, and how this has led to changes in the roles, styles, strategies and control of catering managers. The article also outlines the effects of change on staff. In conclusion the article argues that management in the public sector are increasingly likely to act according to a business ethic’, rather than a ‘public service ethic’.
A Sex Attractant for Trapping Crambus cypridalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Crambus cypridalis (Hulst) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is widely distributed throughout the western United States (Crawford & Harwood 1964; Powell & Opler 2010). The larvae probably feed on grasses, as do congeneric species (Robinson et al. 2002), but it is not reported as a crop pest. Monitoring of wheat head armyworm moth Dargida (= Faronta) diffusa (Walker) and the sibling species Dargida (= Faronta) terrapictalis (Buckett) in eastern Washington resulted in ser endipitous captures of male C. cypridalis in sex attractant-baited traps (Landolt et al. in press). This result led us to test the hypothesis that C. cypridalis males are attracted to the combination of (Z)-ll-hexadecenyl acetate (Zll-16Ac) and (Z) 11-hexadecenal (Zll-16Ald). We also report new information on the seasonal timing of captures of C. cypridalis in sex-attractant traps, which was not included by Landolt et al. (2011). Chemicals were dispensed from red rubber septa (West Co., Lionville, Pennsylvania) and tested in UniTraps (Agrisense Inc., Pontyprid, United Kingdom) with a 6 cm2 piece of Vapor tape® (Hereon Environmental, Emigsville, Penn sylvania) placed within each trap bucket. Traps were attached to stakes at the edges of wheat fields.
Statistical synthesis of power system functional load models

Functional load models characterize the load demand portion of a component load when the influence factors are weather, and human use patterns, etc. Physically based functional load models for individual components are proposed. From these the functional load model of a large number of similar components is obtained by statistical aggregation.
Relationship between Thymus-dependent Cells and Humoral Immunity

RECENT discoveries1–7 seem to indicate that humoral immune responses to some antigens require the interaction of thymus-dependent and thymus-independent cells. An antigen sensitive cell of thymic origin would exist, which is responsible for recognizing antigen, and which differs from the antigen insensitive cells from bone marrow capable of synthesizing antibody. Support for this view comes from experiments involving transplantation of thymus or thoracic duct lymphoid cells into animals which were rendered incapable of forming antibody to sheep cells (SRBC) by irradiation or neonatal thymectomy. An interaction between thymus cells and precursors of antibody forming cells was first demonstrated by injecting irradiated mice with SRBC mixed with thymus cells, marrow cells, or both1. The antibody response in mice given both cell types exceeded the sum of responses to the individual cell types. Thymus or thoracic duct lymphocytes mixed with SRBC and injected into neonatally thymectomized mice elicited antibody responses comparable with those in normal mice2–5. From these experiments and others in which adult mice were thymectomized and irradiated but protected from death by the presence of bone marrow, and injected with SRBC mixed with thoracic duct lymphocytes, it seems clear that antibody synthesizing cells were derived from thymus-independent cells by way of precursors in the marrow. Thus responses to SRBC, like those to other antigens, rely on a thymus-independent population for antibody production. We conclude that the lymphoid system is organized into thymus-dependent and thymus-independent lymphoid populations and that the latter are involved in synthesizing and secreting antibody.
Multiscale bifurcation and stability of multilattices

A lattice-level model is developed for active materials, such as shape memory alloys, that undergo martensitic phase transformations. The model is investigated using equilibrium path following and bifurcation techniques. It is shown that a multiscale stability criterion is essential for correctly interpreting the stability of crystal equilibrium configurations under both thermal- and stress-loading conditions. A two-stage temperature-induced phase transformation is predicted from a cubic B2 phase to an orthorhombic Cmmm phase to a final orthorhombic B19 phase. Under stress-loading conditions, martensitic transformations from the B2 austenite phase to a number of possible martensite phases are identified. These include reconstructive transformations to B11, B33, and C2/m structures and proper transformation to a C2/m monoclinic phase which displays characteristic tension-compression asymmetry. The prediction of both temperature-induced and stress-induced proper martensitic transformations indicates the likelihood that the current model will exhibit shape memory behavior.
Assessing the use of language learning strategies worldwide with the ESL/EFL version of the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL)

Abstract With factor analysis contributions by Neil Anderson, Ohio University, USA; Deena Boraie, American University in Cairo, Egypt; John Green, University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez and Salem State College, USA; Gene Halleck, Oklahoma State University, USA; Omneya Kassabgy, Career Development Center, Cairo, Egypt; Victoria Talbott, Skagit Valley Junior College, USA; Yoshinori Watanabe, Japan; Nae-Dong Yang, National Taiwan University, Taiwan, ROC; Wenpeng Zhang, Ohio University, USA Summative rating scales are among the most efficient and comprehensive ways to assess frequency of language learning strategy use. This article discusses applications of this assessment technique and describes the most widely employed strategy scale, the ESL/EFL version of the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL). Reliability of the SILL is high across many cultural groups. Validity of the SILL rests on its predictive and correlative link with language performance (course grades, standardized test scores, ratings of proficiency), as well as its confirmed relationship to sensory preferences. Studies of strategy use frequencies and factor analytic results across cultures are included.
Recreation and agroforestry: Examining new dimensions of multifunctionality in family farms

Abstract Multifunctionality serves as an analytical framework to recognize many services that farms provide to their surrounding communities and society. This study explores an often overlooked dimension of multifunctionality by examining different recreational services provided by landowners in Missouri and analyzing the relationship between recreational multifunctionality and the practice of agroforestry. The latter provides multiple economic, environmental and beautification benefits that involve trees in the landscape. Results show that family farms provide several recreational services for their household members and others, and the existence of synergies between the recreational function of the farmland and agroforestry practices, consistent with the transition to strong multifunctionality. The recreational use of the land is positively associated to the cognitive (i.e., perceived knowledge) and affective (i.e., willingness to adopt) attitudes towards agroforestry. Results also show that the higher the perception of intrinsic (i.e., planting trees for wind protection and carbon sequestration) and economic (i.e., perceived economic benefits and flood protection) values of agroforestry, the more recreational use of the land. This study exemplifies the interactions between two little examined farmland functions providing insights for a comprehensive value assessment of family farms. Other academic and practical implications of the study are also detailed.
Polymerization of deoxyribonucleotides in relation to androgen-induced prostatic growth☆

Abstract Massive yet transitory elevations in the DNA polymerase activity of soluble ventral prostate extracts occur as a result of daily treatment of castrated rats with large doses of androgens. Evidence is presented that the enzymic processes measured are catalyzed mainly by a “replicative” type of DNA polymerase which preferentially utilizes single-stranded DNA's as primers. The androgen-induced changes in prostatic DNA polymerase in castrates were compared with corresponding alterations in the incorporation of labeled precursors into DNA as promoted by intact prostatic cells both in vivo and in vitro , and with the net accumulation of total prostatic DNA which accompanies growth of the gland under these conditions. Administration of large doses of testosterone to normal rats results in only small increases in prostatic DNA content and DNA polymerase activity. It appears that high levels of prostatic DNA polymerase are demonstrable only around the times that prostatic cells are actively engaged in DNA synthesis. These findings are discussed in relation to the relative contribution of cell proliferation to the overall growth of androgen-sensitive tissues, and to mechanisms which may regulate the eventual limitation of prostatic growth in situ that occurs despite excessive hormonal stimulation.
Development of an analytical method for penicilling in bovine milk by liquid chromatography with ultraviolet-visible detection and confirmation by mass spectrometric detection

Abstract A liquid chromatographic (LC) method with ultraviolet-visible photodiode array (UV-VIS PDA) detection was developed to measure penicillin G in bovine milk. A liquid chromatographic-mass spectrometric (LC-MS) procedure was divised to confirm the LC method. The method involved diluting milk with a drug-releasing solvent consisting of acetonitrile-methanol-water and ultrafiltration through a 10 000 dalton cutoff filter. Penicillin G was separated from other components in the ultrafiltrate by ion-paired LC using a reversed-phase microbore column eluted with a 25% acetonitrile solution. The LC method was confirmed by thermospray LC-MS. The detection limit for penicillin G determination in milk was estimated to be 10 ppb for LC with UV-VIS PDA and 100 ppb for LC-MS.
Development of the Drosophila entero-endocrine lineage and its specification by the Notch signaling pathway.

Abstract In this paper we have investigated the developmental–genetic steps that shape the entero-endocrine system of Drosophila melanogaster from the embryo to the adult. The process starts in the endoderm of the early embryo where precursors of endocrine cells and enterocytes of the larval midgut, as well as progenitors of the adult midgut, are specified by a Notch signaling-dependent mechanism. In a second step that occurs during the late larval period, enterocytes and endocrine cells of a transient pupal midgut are selected from within the clusters of adult midgut progenitors. As in the embryo, activation of the Notch pathway triggers enterocyte differentiation and inhibits cells from further proliferation or choosing the endocrine fate. The third step of entero-endocrine cell development takes place at a mid-pupal stage. Before this time point, the epithelial layer destined to become the adult midgut is devoid of endocrine cells. However, precursors of the intestinal midgut stem cells (pISCs) are already present. After an initial phase of symmetric divisions which causes an increase in their own population size, pISCs start to spin off cells that become postmitotic and express the endocrine fate marker, Prospero. Activation of Notch in pISCs forces these cells into an enterocyte fate. Loss of Notch function causes an increase in the proliferatory activity of pISCs, as well as a higher ratio of Prospero-positive cells.
The evolution of mathematical explorations in open-ended problem-solving situations

Abstract Results from an earlier study conducted by the researchers [Cai, J., & Cifarelli, V.V. (2005). Exploring mathematical exploration: How two college students formulated and solved their own mathematical problems? Focus on Learning Problems in Mathematics, 27(3), 43–72] illustrated and explained several characteristics of the solvers’ mathematical explorations in open-ended problem situations. The current study continues our efforts to understand this important process by extending the results of the earlier study in two ways. First, the analysis broadens the scope of the original study by examining the solver's mathematical exploration across a pair of open-ended tasks, the Billiard Ball and Number Array tasks. This enabled us to determine if the results of the earlier study could be replicated and if the consistency of general processes of mathematical exploration processes could be confirmed across different problem tasks and contexts. Second, the results build on the findings of the earlier study by refinement and clarification of the individual processes found in the earlier study. In these ways, the results of the original study are generalized and there is refinement of the individual processes that were identified.
Electron effective mass in solids—A generalization of Bardeen's formula

Abstract A formula is derived for the effective mass of an electron in a crystal which replaces the sum over excited states in the usual sum rule by an integral over the surface of the unit cell. The integrand of the surface integral involves the wave function(s) at the symmetry point or band extremum k 0 and a second solution of Schroedinger's equation at the same energy but satisfying inhomogeneous boundary conditions on the cell surface. The procedure is applicable regardless whether there is a degeneracy at k 0 , and spin-orbit coupling may be taken into account. The result thus represents a generalization of Bardeen's formula for the effective mass of an s -band at k = 0 in the Wigner-Seitz spherical approximation to an arbitrary band at any point k 0 , using the polyhedral cell. A related variational principle for the components of the effective mass matrix is also derived.
Al-based thermal oxides in vertical cavity surface emitting lasers

The microstructure of wet oxidized layers for vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELS) was studied by transmission electron microscopy. These oxides were formed by reaction of Al x Ga 1-x As(x approximately equals 0 - 0.2) with water vapor at elevated temperatures (approximately 400 - 450 degrees Celsius). Due to the excellent carrier confinement provided by the oxidized layer, VCSELS have very low threshold currents and high efficiencies. This study revealed the accumulation of excess As at the interfaces with the oxidized layers and occasionally at the sample surface. To avoid this As accumulation on the sample surface, GaInP layers were grown on top of AlGaAs/GaAs layers. In this case no As was found at the layer surface. In addition, substantial shrinkage was found after oxidation, and the formation of large pores at the interface between the oxide and the high Al content layer, which might be detrimental for the device performance. The dependence of the oxide and interface quality on the composition of the oxidized layers, oxidation time and temperature are discussed in relation to the optical quality of VCSELs.
The Effect of Chromophore Architecture and Deposition Conditions on the Optical and Microstructural Characteristics of Self-Assembled Chromophoric Thin Film NLO Materials

Abstract Construction on inorganic oxide substrates of covalently self-assembled second-order nonlinear optical (NLO) materials containing a variety of acentrically organized high-β chromophores is investigated as a function of film deposition conditions. Structurally different chromophores exhibit varying packing arrangements on the surface. Changing the medium for the chromophorc deposition reaction on functionalized surfaces from a polar solvent to a nonpolar solvent and raising the temperature increases the chromophore number density on the surface and yields improved NLO response. These robust thin film materials show very high second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiencies with X (2) zzz for ∼ 25 A thick monolayers of up to 7 × 10−7 esu at 1064 nm.
Patient-Reported Underuse of Prescription Medications: A Comparison of Nine Surveys

Nine national surveys documenting patient underuse of prescription medications were examined to describe the variation and trends in that underuse and identify possible reasons for the substantially different rates that were reported. Underuse includes unfilled prescriptions, delayed therapy, reduced frequency, and lowered dosage. Rates of cost-related patient underuse in the studies ranged from 1.6 to 22 percent. Insurance coverage, level of wealth, age, and health status were the sociodemographic variables most strongly related to underuse. Seven additional factors in the design and administration of the surveys were identified as providing plausible explanations for the variance across surveys. The most conspicuous variation was between three government-sponsored periodic surveys and six generally one-time assessments, with the latter yielding higher rates and greater variance in underuse. Understanding the factors contributing to the variation in reported rates of underuse of medications is an important prerequisite for the design of effective prescription-drug benefit programs.
Multiple Behavioral Factors Related to Weight Status in a Sample of Early Adolescents: Relationships of Sleep, Screen Time, and Physical Activity

The current investigation examines sleep debt, sleepiness, screen time, physical activity, and weight status among a sample of 110 adolescents. Students completed sleep questions, a sleepiness questionnaire, a measure of physical activity; anthropometric data were gathered. Results indicated significant relationships between sleep debt and sleepiness, screen time and sleepiness, and sleepiness and physical activity levels. Additionally, significant differences were found for physical activity and screen time, but not for sleepiness, between students among different weight status categories. A better understanding of sleep behaviors and weight status may ultimately inform prevention/treatment programs designed to reduce obesity in adolescents.
Preparative immobiline isoelectric focusing of plasma apolipoproteins on vertical slab gels

Abstract An effective preparative isoelectric focusing method has been developed using the LKB Immobiline system in a vertical slab gel apparatus. Advantages of this procedure are ease of sample application, excellent resolution, and the direct visualization of focused protein bands. Narrow pH gradients have been used to separate apolipoprotein E3 isoforms (pH gradient 4.9–5.9) and to resolve the apolipoprotein C mixture (pH gradient 4.0–5.0). Recoveries ranged from 40 to 70%. The method should be valuable for protein and isoform purification.
Clinical and radiologic improvement of regional enteritis and enterocolitis after treatment with salicylazosulfapyridine.

Striking clinical and radiologic improvement is reported in 4 patients with regional enteritis or enterocolitis (Crohn's disease), in response to treatment with salicylazosulfapyridine.
Emotion Regulation in Context: Situational Effects on Infant and Caregiver Behavior

Emotion regulation is an important developmental task of the early years of life. However, situational effects are rarely examined. In this study, we evaluated situational effects on 7-month-olds' and their mothers' emotional expression and interactive regulation behavior, individual differences across situations, and intercorrelations within situations. Mother-infant dyads (N = 225) were observed interacting during episodes from play, teaching, and still-face situations that varied along 2 developmentally salient dimensions: emotional challenge (low vs. high), and attentional focus (face-to-face vs. object). Attentional focus affected mothers' behavior, whereas both challenge and attentional focus affected infants. Associations between mother and infant behaviors varied in each situation. High-challenge situations provided more consistent individual differences in infants and more negative behavior from mothers. Findings have implications for appropriate assessment of emotion regulation in infancy.
Functional significance of polycystic-size ovaries in healthy adolescents.

Context: The relevance of adult polycystic ovary criteria to adolescence is unclear. Objective: The objective was to determine the functional significance of polycystic-size ovaries (PSO) in healthy adolescents. Design/Setting/Participants/Interventions: Healthy 11- to 18-yr-old postmenarcheal volunteers (n = 22) were recruited and divided into groups with normal size ovaries (VNSO; n = 10) or a polycystic-size ovary (VPSO; n = 12). They were secondarily compared with adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS; n = 8) matched for gynecological age and a PSO. All underwent GnRH agonist (GnRHag), oral glucose tolerance, and ACTH1–24 testing in our General Clinical Research Center. Results: VPSO had a higher peak 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17PROG) response to GnRHag than VNSO (146 ± 14 ng/dl, mean ± sem, vs. 85 ± 11; P = 0.008), as well as larger ovaries (13.3 ± 0.7 cc vs. 8.5 ± 0.8 cc). VPSO peak 17PROG was elevated (>137 ng/dl) in 42% (5 of 12). However, VPSO and VNSO androgen levels were similar, with ...
The advantages of the high voltage solar array for electric propulsion

The high voltage solar array offers improvements in efficiency, weight, and reliability for the electric propulsion power system. Conventional power processes and problems associated with ion thruster operation using SERT 2 experience are discussed and the advantages of the HVSA concept for electric propulsion are presented. Tests conducted operating the SERT 2 thruster system in conjunction with HVSA are reported. Thruster operation was observed to be normal and in some respects improved.
Safety and Efficacy of Levetiracetam for Critically Ill Patients with Seizures

Introduction In intensive care unit (ICU) patients, seizure or status epilepticus treatment with intravenous benzodiazepines or conventional antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), such as phenytoin, may be accompanied by cardiovascular depression or hypotension. Levetiracetam (LVM) is a novel AED that does not undergo extensive liver metabolism, does not require drug level monitoring, and is not associated with hemodynamic instability. We retrospectively analyzed the use, safety, and efficacy of LVM in ICU patients.
MOSAIC TEXTURE OF GRAPHITES

CRYSTAL sizes in graphitic carbons are commonly in the μ or sub-μ range. The average dimensions of the crystallites (that is, the parallel-layer groups of condensed aromatic ring networks) in any particular material are usually deduced from measurements of the widths of X-ray powder diffraction maxima. Although the measurements are complicated by the presence of stacking disorders, techniques exist1 for eliminating the effects due to these. The dimensions thus obtained are : La the average diameter of layer-network over which there is considerable perfection, t the average height of parallel-layer group over which the stacking is fully ordered, Lc the total height of the group irrespective of the presence of disordered (turbostratic) stacking. With crystallite dimensions greater than about 200 A. the accuracy of the determination depends very considerably, and to an extent increasing rapidly with crystal size, on the corrections for extraneous (instrumental, absorption, etc.) line-broadening effects. Nevertheless, for good natural graphites the crystallite dimensions are consistently found to be not more than a few thousand A. (ref. 2 and Steward, E. G., and Cook, B. P., unpublished work). For artificial graphites the dimensions are usually less than 1000 A. (refs. 2,3,4 and Steward, E. G., and Cook, B. P., unpublished work).
Neutrino fluxes from astrophysical sources, the role of neutrinos from charmed meson production and decay

We show that charm production gives significant enhancement to a flux of very high energy neutrinos from astrophysical sources with jets driven by central engines, such as gamma ray bursts or supernovae with jets. We demonstrate that neutrino flux from semi-leptonic decays of charmed mesons is subject to much less hadronic and radiative cooling than the conventional flux from pion and kaon decays. We discuss implications of our results for future ultrahigh energy neutrino experiments.
Plasma amino acid concentrations in normal adults ingesting aspartame and monosodium L-glutamate as part of a soup/beverage meal

We tested the hypothesis that ingestion of monosodium L-glutamate with aspartame produces a marked increase in plasma glutamate and aspartate concentrations. Twelve normal adults (6 males, 6 females) ingested three different soup/beverage meals in a balanced Latin square design. One meal (A) provided no aspartame (APM) or monosodium L-glutamate (MSG); a second (B) provided 50 mg MSG/kg body weight; while the third (C) provided 50 mg MSG and 34 mg APM per kg body weight. Plasma glutamate (Glu) concentrations were not significantly affected by meal A but increased significantly after meals B and C (no significant difference between B and C). Plasma aspartate (Asp) concentrations were not significantly affected by meal A but increased significantly after meals B and C (values significantly higher after meal C than meal B). Plasma Glu + Asp concentrations were not significantly affected by meal A but increased significantly from a mean (+/- SD) baseline value of 5.64 +/- 2.62 mumol/dL to high mean values of 23.1 +/- 7.29 and 26.8 +/- 9.74 mumol/dL after ingestion of meals B and C, respectively (no significant difference between meals B and C). Similarly, the area under the plasma Glu + Asp concentration-time curve did not differ significantly between meals B and C (624 +/- 197 v 763 +/- 277 mumol/dL x min, respectively). Peak plasma Glu + Asp concentrations for each subject (ignoring time) were also examined. The mean peak plasma Glu + Asp concentrations were 7.39 +/- 2.77, 23.0 +/- 6.61, and 27.3 +/- 9.07 mumol/dL, respectively after meals A, B, and C.
Localization of tumor-reactive lymph node lymphocytes in vivo using radiolabeled monoclonal antibody.

BACKGROUND Lymph node lymphocytes vary in their responsiveness to tumor. A technique has been developed that uses radiolabeled monoclonal antibody (MoAb) against the tumor-associated mucin, TAG-72, and a gamma-detecting probe by which lymph nodes containing microscopic tumor and/or shed TAG-72 can be identified in vivo. The immunologic characteristics of these lymph nodes were examined. METHODS Patients with colon cancer received 125I-labeled MoAb CC49 by intravenous injection preoperatively. During laparotomy lymph nodes that appeared normal on inspection and palpation but which contained radiolabeled MoAb were identified using a hand-held gamma-detecting probe. These lymph nodes and other lymph node and tumor specimens were resected for analysis. RESULTS Lymph nodes identified by the probe were found by immunohistochemical studies to contain microscopic tumor and/or shed antigen associated with germinal centers. They were characterized by greater CD4+:CD8+ ratios, rates of expansion, and cytolytic activity compared with lymphocytes from lymph nodes with macroscopic tumor, noninvolved lymph nodes, and tumors. All lymph node lymphocytes identified by the probe demonstrated significant proliferative responses to autologous tumor and, in contrast to lymphocytes from noninvolved lymph nodes, significant proliferative responses to allogeneic TAG-72+ tumor cells and to soluble TAG-72+ mucin. CONCLUSIONS By locating lymph nodes with microscopic tumor and/or shed antigen, the use of radiolabeled MoAb in vivo can be used to reproducibly identify tumor-reactive lymph node lymphocytes. This technique may be useful in identifying cells for use in adoptive immunotherapy programs and in studying the regulation of immune responses in vivo.
Static conductivity and superconductivity of carbon nanotubes: Relations between tubes and sheets

We relate the static conductivity of carbon nanotubes to the static in-plane conductivity of a graphite sheet and conclude that isolated single-wall nanotubes are excellent conductors. In contrast, multiwall tubes at low doping may possess conductivities substantially below that of the sum of the constituent tubes. The curvature of small tubes opens new electron-phonon scattering channels that are not available to sheets. This increases the electron-phonon coupling and yields superconducting transition temperatures for small doped tubes intermediate between those of intercalated graphite and alkali-metal-doped ${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$.