cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with concentrations of immunoglobulins in colostrum at the first milking post-calving

Abstract The concentration of immunoglobulins (Ig) in colostrum at first machine-milking was monitored in 2045 cows during a 29-month period in a Central Florida dairy. Estimates of colostral Ig were performed immediately after cow milking in the parlor using a colostrometer. Factors associated with the concentrations of colostral Ig were evaluated using analysis of variance and logistic regression. The majority of samples, 79.8% (1632), tested in the low-quality range (less than 20 mg ml−1), while 13.5% (276) were classified as intermediate (20–50 mg ml−1). The mean colostrum score for first lactation animals was 9.3 mg ml−1 which was significantly lower than that observed for second and greater lactation cows. Mean colostrum scores by month were significantly higher during August and September than other months of the year. Holsteins were twice as likely to have high concentrations of colostral Ig (more than 50 mg ml−1) in comparison to other breeds represented. The concentration of Ig in colostrum increased significantly in cows when body condition score increased from dry-off to calving in contrast to when it remained stable or decreased. These results demonstrate the importance of monitoring colostrum quality in operations which practice the hand feeding of colostrum to neonatal calves for the purpose of optimizing passive immunity.
The Cultural Politics of Human Rights: Comparing the U.S. and U.K.

Kate Nash, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 2009, ISBN 978-0-521-61867-0 (hardback), £45.00, ISBN 978-0-521-85352-1 (paperback), £17.99, vii +203 pp., index The international protection of hu...
Registration of common bacterial blight resistant dark red kidney bean germplasm line USDK-CBB-15

Dark red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) germplasm line USDK-CBB-15 was developed by the USDA-ARS in cooperation with the Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station. It is a modified BC3F1:4 bulk from the cross K97305/3/SVM-2242//I9566-21-4-2/'Montcalm'. It was released in 2005 on the basis of its resistance to common bacterial blight caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli. In a greenhouse inoculation test, USDK-CBB-15 had a mean disease score of 2 on the basis of a 1 to 9 scale, in which 1 is resistant and 9 is completely susceptible. It possess both the SAP6 and SU91 markers linked with major QTL for resistance derived from Montana No.5 (via Montcalm) and tepary bean (via XAN 159), respectively. It exhibits a Type I determinate bush growth habit typical of kidney bean. Yield was 108% of 'Red Hawk' dark red kidney at Othello, Washington in 2004. Average weight of 100 seeds was 52 g and equal to Red Hawk. USDK-CBB-15 matured in 98 days, which is 2 days later than Red Hawk. It also exhibits a hypersensitive resistance response to the NL-3 strain of Bean common mosaic necrosis virus.
Efficacy and safety of topical steroids in paediatric atopic dermatitis

Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects 10–15% of children in the USA and up to 20% of children in the UK. Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy to control acute flares of AD in both children and adults. Aim In paediatric patients, it is especially important to ensure that local application of a corticosteroid used is limited to the least amount needed to produce a therapeutic response, as children are particularly prone to systemic adverse effects of these agents. The development of newer corticosteroid molecules is aimed at achieving maximum activity and minimal unwanted side effects. Review Mometasone furoate (Elocon®), a medium potency topical corticosteroid, is the only topical steroid approved for use in children in the USA. Mometasone furoate undergoes biotransformation in the liver into three different metabolites with very little intrinsic activity. Local side effects are minimal, with an atrophogenic potential comparable with that of 1% hydrocortisone ointment, and the risk of adrenal suppression is low. In clinical trials including over 300 infants and children, once-daily 0.1% mometasone furoate was found to be statistically significantly more effective than twice-daily 1% or 2.5% hydrocortisone, twice-daily 0.05% alclometasone dipropionate and twice-daily 0.05% fluticasone propionate. Conclusion The once-daily regimen of mometasone furoate is also useful in promoting compliance and reducing the potential for adverse effects.
The Role of Chance in Explanation

‘Those ice cubes melted because by melting total entropy increased and entropy increase has a very high objective chance.’ What role does the chance in this explanation play? I argue that it contributes to the explanation by entailing that the melting was almost necessary, and defend the claim that the fact that some event was almost necessary can, in the right circumstances, constitute a causal explanation of that event.
Microelectrode amplifier with improved method of input-capacitance neutralisation.

A circuit is described which allows the input capacitance of an f.e.t. input integrated circuit to be used both as the feedback capacitance to neutralise the total input capacitance and to inject current pulses into the input. Compared with the conventional method of adding discrete capacitors to perform these functions, this design results in a lower total capacitance at the input, which reduces the high-frequency noise generated by the amplifier and facilitates the achievement of a low effective capacitance. A modified version having an ultralow (0·1pA) input current, for use with ion-sensitive microelectrodes, is also described.
Effects of transmitters on the reproductive success of Tufted Puffins

Although radiotelemetry is useful for monitoring nest attendance and the foraging ranges and distribution of breeding birds, attachment of transmitters may affect reproductive behavior. In 2003, we captured 25 adult Tufted Puffins (Fratercula cirrhata) at two colonies in Chiniak Bay, Kodiak Island, Alaska, and fitted them with subcutaneously anchored radiotransmitters (<1.2% of body mass). We determined the presence of radio-marked birds at each study site using automated, remote radiotelemetry systems, and compared rates of nestling growth, fledging mass, and fledging success for chicks with and without (control group) a radio-marked parent. Although most radio-marked adults continued to attend nests after capture and attachment of transmitters, nestlings with a radio-marked parent had lower mean growth rates (6.9 g/d vs. 14.4 g/d) and fledging success (33% vs. 84%) than control chicks. These results suggest that colony attendance by adult puffins fitted with transmitters declined sharply or completely and this led to high nestling mortality. Given the negative effects of transmitters on Tufted Puffins in our study and in other studies of alcids, we suggest delaying the attachment of transmitters until well after the brooding period. In addition, we recommend pilot studies be undertaken to distinguish the possible effects of capture and handling from those of actually carrying the device. SINOPSIS. Efecto de radiotransmisores en elreproductivo de Fratercula cirrhata Aunque la radiotelemetrespara monitorear la atencide los nidos, los patrones de forrajeo y la distribuci´ de aves que se reproducen, el colocar radiotransmisores en aves puede afectar la conducta reproductiva. En el 2003, capturamos 25 adultos de frailecillos (Fratercula cirrhata) en dos colonias de Chiniak Bay, Isla de Kodiak, Alaska, y les colocamos, subcutaneamente, radiotransmisores (<1.2% de la masa corporal). Determinamos la presencia de cada ave "marcada" en cadade estudio, utilizando un sistema automatizado remoto de radiotelemetry comparamos las tasas de crecimiento de los pichones, peso de los volantones yde los volantones con padres con y sin radiotransmisor. Aunque la gran mayorde los adultos con radiotransmisores continuaron atendiendo a los pichones, estos presentaron una taza promedio de crecimiento (6.9 g/dia vs. 14.4 g/dia) y unde dejar el nido menor que las aves control (33 vs. 84%). Estos resultados sugieren que la atenci´ on a los nidos de parte de adultos de frailecillo, a los cuales se les ha colocado radiotransmisores, se detiene o se reduce dry da lugar a alta mortalidad de pichones. Dado el efecto negativo de los radiotransmisores en los frailecillos, documentado en nuestro estudio y otros similares, sugerimos el dilatar la instalaci´ on de radiotransmisores en estas aves, posterior al periodo de empollamiento ("brooding"). Tambirecomendamos que se lleven a cabo estudios pilotos para poder distinguir los posibles efectos de la captura y manejo para colocar radiotransmisores en estas aves.
Understanding software application interfaces via string analysis

In software systems, different software applications often interact with each other through specific interfaces by exchanging data in string format. For example, web services interact with each other through XML strings. Database applications interact with a database through strings of SQL statements. Sometimes these interfaces between different software applications are complex and distributed. For example, a table in a database can be accessed by multiple methods in a database application and a single method can access multiple tables. In this paper, we propose an approach to understanding software application interfaces through string analysis. The approach first performs a static analysis of source code to identify interaction points (in the form of interface-method-call sites). We then leverage existing string analysis tools to collect all possible string data that can be sent through these different interaction points. Then we manipulate collected string data by grouping similar data together. For example, we group together all collected SQL statements that access the same table. Then we associate various parts of aggregated data with interaction points in order to show the connections between entities from interacting applications. Our preliminary results show that the approach can help us understand the characteristics of interactions between database applications and databases. We also identify some challenges in this approach for our future work.
Kinetics studies relevant to possible coupling between the stratospheric chlorine and sulfur cycles

Abstract In order to probe possible coupling between the stratospheric chlorine and sulfur cycles, the kinetics of the reactions of Cl and ClO with SO 2 and SCO are investigated in a fast-flow reactor with mass spectrometric monitoring of reactants and products. For the reaction Cl + SO 2 + M → ClSO 2 + M over the temperature range 266–331 K, k = (2.2 ± 1.8) × 10 −34 exp [(1240 ± 1050)/ RT ] and (9.9 ± 8.1) × 10 −34 exp [(1770 ± 970)/ RT ] cm 6 molec −2 s −1 with Ar and SO 2 as third bodies, respectively. The room temperature rate constant for the reaction Cl + SCO → SCl + CO appears to be between 10 −18 and 10 −16 cm 3 molec −1 s −1 . Neither of these reactions are significant for stratospheric chlorine chemistry. No reactions are observed between ClO and SO 2 and SCO. The upper limits which we can place on the rate constants for these reactions, however, do not completely rule out their importance for stratospheric chlorine chemistry.
Lithium-(F(2)(+))(A) centers in alkali-halide crystals.

New absorption and emission bands are reported for KBr, KI, and RbI that are attributed to the lithium-(F2+)A center.
No effect of modulators of reactive oxygen-induced pathology on microcystin-LR intoxication

D. R. Franz, R. D. Leclaire, W. B. Lawrence and D. L. Bunner. No effect of modulators of reactive oxygen-induced pathology on microcystin-LR intoxication. Toxicon26, 1098–1101, 1988—Because reactive oxygen species are formed during the metabolism of several toxins that cause similar pathologic changes, we hypothesized that compounds that alter the concentration of reactive oxygen species would alter the toxic effects of the peptide-hepatotoxin produced principally by Microcystis aeruginosa. Pretreatment with alloxan, butylated hydroxyanisole or desferrioxamine did not alter the severity of microcystin-LR intoxication in fed mice. Furthermore, fasting mice for 24 hr before testing, which unmasks lipid peroxidation in paracetamol intoxication, did not alter the effect of butylated hydroxyanisole pretreatment.
Pivotal Roles of cGAS-cGAMP Signaling in Antiviral Defense and Immune Adjuvant Effects

Invasion of microbial DNA into the cytoplasm of animal cells triggers a cascade of host immune reactions that help clear the infection; however, self DNA in the cytoplasm can cause autoimmune diseases. Biochemical approaches led to the identification of cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) as a cytosolic DNA sensor that triggers innate immune responses. Here, we show that cells from cGAS-deficient (cGas(-/-)) mice, including fibroblasts, macrophages, and dendritic cells, failed to produce type I interferons and other cytokines in response to DNA transfection or DNA virus infection. cGas(-/-) mice were more susceptible to lethal infection with herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1) than wild-type mice. We also show that cGAMP is an adjuvant that boosts antigen-specific T cell activation and antibody production in mice.
Affecting Organizational Identity: A Manager’s Influence

Organizational identity is an important cognitive variable that not only affects how one feels about his or her membership in the organization but also determines the participant's behavior within ...
Management of acute traumatic spinal cord injury.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes significant morbidity and mortality. Clinical management in the acute setting needs to occur in the intensive care unit in order to identify, prevent, and treat secondary insults from local ischemia, hypotension, hypoxia, and inflammation. Maintenance of adequate perfusion and oxygenation is quintessential and a mean arterial pressure >85–90 mm Hg should be kept for at least 1 week. A cervical collar and full spinal precautions (log-roll, flat, holding C-spine) should be maintained until the spinal column has been fully evaluated by a spine surgeon. In patients with SCI, there is a high incidence of other bodily injuries, and there should be a low threshold to assess for visceral, pelvic, and long bone injuries. Computed tomography of the spine is superior to plain films, as the former rarely misses fractures, though caution needs to be exerted as occipitocervical dislocation can still be missed. To reliably assess the spinal neural elements, soft tissues, and ligamentous structures, magnetic resonance imaging is indicated and should be obtained within 48–72 h from the time of injury. All patients should be graded daily using the American Spinal Injury Association classification, with the first prognostic score at 72 h postinjury. Patients with high cervical cord (C4 or higher) injury should be intubated immediately, and those with lower cord injuries should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. However, in the acute setting, respiratory mechanics will be disrupted with any spinal cord lesion above T11. Steroids have become extremely controversial, and the professional societies for neurosurgery in the United States have given a level 1 statement against their use in all patients. We, therefore, do not advocate for them at this time. With every SCI, a spine surgeon must be consulted to discuss operative vs nonoperative management strategies. Indications for surgery include a partial or progressive neurologic deficit, instability of the spine not allowing for mobilization, correction of a deformity, and prevention of potential neurologic compromise. Measures to prevent pulmonary emboli from deep venous thromboembolisms are necessary: IVC filters are recommended in bedbound patients and low-molecular weight heparins are superior to unfractionated heparin. Robust prevention of pressure ulcers as well as nutritional support should be a mainstay of treatment. Lastly, it is important to note that neurologic recovery is a several-year process. The most recovery occurs in the first year following injury, and therefore aggressive rehabilitation is crucial.
Mechanisms of atrial tachyarrhythmias following surgical atrial fibrillation ablation.

Atrial Arrhythmias After Surgical AF ablation. Introduction: Typical and atypical atrial flutters (AFLs) and atrial tachycardias (ATs) have been reported in patients with prior surgical atrial fibrillation ablation. The underlying mechanisms for this group of atrial tachyarrhythmias have not been well characterized and the efficacy of catheter ablation in their treatment is unknown. Methods and Results: Twenty patients (6 females) with a surface ECG diagnosis of AFL or AT following surgical atrial fibrillation ablation underwent 26 electrophysiology studies. Patients manifesting sustained, organized, and beat-by-beat reproducible atrial electrical activity underwent complete right and left atrial catheter mapping and catheter ablation. One patient had no inducible tachyarrhythmia, while 5 patients had nonmappable arrhythmias. Nineteen of the 31 potentially mappable atrial tachyarrhythmias were completely characterized in 14 patients. The underlying mechanisms were macro-reentrant left AFL (n = 9), focal left AT (n = 3), typical right AFL (n = 6), and atypical right AFL (n = 1). Of the 19 completely characterized atrial arrhythmias, catheter ablation was performed for 18, and the procedure was successful for 13 of these. After a mean follow-up of 15 ± 10 months, 15 of 20 patients (75%) were in sinus rhythm including 10 of 13 patients (77%) with AT/flutter ablation. Ten patients, including 6 following ablation, were maintaining sinus rhythm without antiarrhythmic medications. Conclusions: Patients with an ECG diagnosis of AFL or AT following surgical atrial fibrillation ablation may have multiple tachycardia mechanisms with the right or left atrium as the site of origin. Many of these rhythms may resolve with further maturation of surgical atrial fibrillation ablation (SAFA) lesions or be treatable with antiarrhythmic medication. However, persistent tachyarrhythmias can often be treated successfully with catheter mapping and ablation.
Relationship of Electronic Medical Knowledge Resource Use and Practice Characteristics with Internal Medicine Maintenance of Certification Examination Scores

BACKGROUND Maintenance of certification examination performance is associated with quality of care. We aimed to examine relationships between electronic medical knowledge resource use, practice characteristics and examination scores among physicians recertifying in internal medicine.
A stabilized formulation for discrete gradient method

This paper presents a stabilization scheme for the discrete gradient method proposed by the authors (Int. J. Numer. Methods Eng. 2009; 78:505–527). The discrete method is an extension of the nodal average strain triangle element to arbitrary polygon meshes. The method outperforms the low-order finite elements in many aspects; however, it is susceptible to spurious zero-energy or low-energy modes arising from cancelation of strains during strain averaging. In this paper, stabilization is achieved by a penalty scheme that penalizes the difference between the nodal strain and the subcell strains. Several examples, including an analytical dispersion analysis, are presented to demonstrate the stabilization effect. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
3D Pharmacophoric Similarity improves Multi Adverse Drug Event Identification in Pharmacovigilance

Adverse drugs events (ADEs) detection constitutes a considerable concern in patient safety and public health care. For this reason, it is important to develop methods that improve ADE signal detection in pharmacovigilance databases. Our objective is to apply 3D pharmacophoric similarity models to enhance ADE recognition in Offsides, a pharmacovigilance resource with drug-ADE associations extracted from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). We developed a multi-ADE predictor implementing 3D drug similarity based on a pharmacophoric approach, with an ADE reference standard extracted from the SIDER database. The results showed that the application of our 3D multi-type ADE predictor to the pharmacovigilance data in Offsides improved ADE identification and generated enriched sets of drug-ADE signals. The global ROC curve for the Offsides ADE candidates ranked with the 3D similarity score showed an area of 0.7. The 3D predictor also allows the identification of the most similar drug that causes the ADE under study, which could provide hypotheses about mechanisms of action and ADE etiology. Our method is useful in drug development, screening potential adverse effects in experimental drugs, and in drug safety, applicable to the evaluation of ADE signals selected through pharmacovigilance data mining.
Use of a Food and Drug Administration-Approved Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Simulator to Evaluate and Optimize a Proportional-Integral-Derivative Controller

Background: Clinical studies have shown that the Medtronic proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control with insulin feedback (IFB) provides stable 24 h glucose control, but with high postprandial glucose. We coupled this algorithm to a Food and Drug Administration-approved type 1 diabetes mellitus simulator to determine whether a proportional-derivative controller with preprogrammed basal rates (PDBASAL) would have better performance. Methods: We performed simulation studies on 10 adult subjects to (1) obtain the basal profiles for the PD BASAL controller; (2) define the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profile used to effect IFB, (3) optimize the PID and PD BASAL control parameters, (4) evaluate improvements obtained with IFB, and (5) develop a method to simulate changes in insulin sensitivity and assess the ability of each algorithm to respond to such changes. Results: PDBASAL control signifiantly reduced peak postprandial glucose [252 (standard error = 11) versus 279 (14) mg/dl; p < .001] and increased nadir glucose [102 (3) versus 92 (3) mg/dl; p < .001] compared with PID control (both implemented with IFB). However, with PDBASAL control, fasting glucose remained elevated following a 30% decrease in insulin sensitivity [156 (6) mg/dl; different from the target of 110 mg/dl; p < .001] and remained below target following a 30% increase in insulin sensitivity [84 (2) mg/dl; p < .001]. In both cases, PID control returned glucose levels to target. Conclusions:
Combinatorial synthesis of ZnTe nanocrystals in SiO2 on silicon by ion implantation

Abstract In the field of organic chemistry combinatorial synthesis and screening of a large number of compounds is a common method for discovering and optimizing specific chemical and physical properties. Furthermore this approach is well suited when there are no reliable theories for the predictability of the chemical reaction paths and the resulting basic properties. Here we describe the application of the combinatorial synthesis technique on the synthesis of optically active ZnTe nanocrystals buried in SiO 2 on a Si(1 0 0) surface. This and similar materials are of great technical interest, because they enable the combination of quantum dots of direct band gap semiconductor materials with silicon. The redistribution of the implanted constituents before and after annealing is measured by Rutherford-backscattering spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and shows a complex concentration distribution pattern strongly influenced by the annealing process gas.
Midgut gland toxins of Hawaiian sea hares. II. A preliminary pharmacological study.

Abstract We report some preliminary studies on ether-soluble and water-soluble residues obtained from the midgut glands of two Hawaiian species of sea hares (Aplysiidae). Sublethal doses of the crude ether-soluble residue produce hypertension when injected intravenously into anesthetized rats, whereas the crude water-soluble residue produces a transient hypotension, bradycardia and apnea. Dose-effect curves for more purified extracts show actions similar to those seen with crude extracts. The hypertension produced by the ether-soluble toxin is resistant to both alpha- and beta-adrenergic blocking agents. The hypotensive effect of the water-soluble extract could not be abolished by vagotomy or pretreatment with either atropine (25 mg/kg) or Benadryl (22 mg/kg). It is concluded that both extracts may have direct effects on the contractility of vascular smooth muscle which are not mediated by alpha-adrenergic or cholinergic mechanisms. The possible relationship of these toxic extracts to the previously described aplysin is discussed.
Three-choice discrimination in pigeons is based on relative efficacy differences among opioids.

Rationale: Drug discrimination assays can provide important information on receptor selectivity and relative efficacy to guide the classification and characterization of opioid agonists. Objectives: A three-choice discrimination was established among high efficacy opioid agonist morphine, low efficacy opioid agonist nalbuphine, and saline to examine the conditions under which differences in relative efficacy might serve as a basis for stimulus control. Methods: Seven White Carneau pigeons were trained to discriminate among 5.6 mg/kg nalbuphine, 3.2 mg/kg morphine, and saline under fixed ratio 30 (FR30) schedules of food reinforcement. Substitution and antagonism experiments were then conducted with µ, κ, and δ opioids and naltrexone, respectively and the percent responding appropriate to the training stimuli was determined. Results: Low, intermediate, and high doses of morphine produced ≥80% saline-, ≥60% nalbuphine-, and ≥96% morphine-appropriate responding, respectively. Low and high doses of nalbuphine produced ≥80% saline- and nalbuphine-appropriate responding, respectively. In substitution tests, low doses of fentanyl and etorphine produced partial nalbuphine-appropriate responding (20–60%) and high doses produced ≥60–80% morphine-appropriate responding. Intermediate doses of buprenorphine and dezocine produced ≥60–80% nalbuphine-appropriate responding and high doses produced ≥80% morphine-appropriate responding. The lower efficacy agonists butorphanol, nalorphine, and levallorphan produced ≥40–80% nalbuphine-appropriate responding. The κ agonists spiradoline and U50,488 produced approximately ≥50% nalbuphine-appropriate responding whereas d-amphetamine, saline, and δ agonists BW373U86 and SNC 80 produced ≥80% saline-appropriate responding. Naltrexone produced ≥80% saline-appropriate responding and reversed the stimulus effects of morphine and nalbuphine. Conclusions: The discrimination between morphine and nalbuphine in pigeons is predominantly based on the relative efficacy differences between morphine, a higher-efficacy µ agonist and nalbuphine, a lower-efficacy µ agonist.
CONCENTRATION OF ONION JUICE VOLATILES BY REVERSE OSMOSIS AND ITS EFFECTS ON SUPERCRITICAL CO2 EXTRACTION

Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of onion oil at moderate temperatures produces a product which is characteristic of the fresh flavor of onions. It was attempted to improve extraction efficiency by concentrating the onion juice by reverse osmosis prior to supercritical CO 2 extraction. Reverse osmosis was carried out for all combinations of 600, 700, and 800 psi feed pressure and 25 and 35C. The juice was concentrated to 18 °Brix and then subjected to supercritical CO 2 extraction. The effect of concentration on the extraction process was evaluated by comparing the yields of extracts from concentrated juice with that of single strength juice. Concentration of onion juice by reverse osmosis improved the efficiency of supercritical CO 2 extraction of onion oil and did not alter its characteristic fresh aroma.
Specialization, inequality and the social stability of economies with collective property rights

Abstract Many, if not most, economies are observed to exhibit some form of collective ownership with some goods. These economies may fail to be socially stable, in the sense that the economy has an empty core; some groups may have an incentive to ‘recontract out’. We show that, for a class of economies with collective ownership, sufficient ‘specialization’ in the endowment holdings of these economies gives rise to a non-empty core, so achieving social stability. It is shown, moreover, that reductions in income inequality are consistent with social stability, to the extent that these reductions preserve or increase ‘specialization’ in the economy. Finally, we show that our notion of specialization is not limited to the privatized sector of the economy. Even in economies in which there is no privately held property, sufficient specialization guarantees that the economy is socially stable.
All printed self-aligned organic transistors for low cost RFID applications

The lack of self-alignment between the gate and the source/drain electrodes is significant problem for printed transistors, since alignment is typically limited by the layer-to-layer registration capabilities of the printer. This in turn necessitates the use of design rules specifying large gate-to-source/drain overlaps, resulting in degraded switching speed due to the large overall capacitance [1]. Here, for the first time, we demonstrate the realization of self-aligned transistors in a fully inkjet-printed process, without the need for any lithography or vacuum processing. With self-aligned printing of the source/drain to the gate, we achieve a minimum overlap of 0.78um between the gate the source/drain, contrasted to the >10um typically required in conventional printed transistors. As a result, the cut-off frequency of the printed transistor is significantly enhanced since parasitic overlap capacitances are minimized. Moreover, variations of the channel length can be reduced since the channel length is now defined by self-alignment. In contrast to previous reports on self-aligned printed devices [2], we achieve self-alignment in a fully-printed process without using any lithographic steps.
Chemical kinetic considerations for postflame synthesis of carbon nanotubes in premixed flames using a support catalyst

Abstract Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on a grid supported cobalt nanocatalyst were grown, by exposing it to combustion gases from ethylene/air rich premixed flames. Ten equivalence ratios ( ϕ ) were investigated, as follows: 1.37, 1.44, 1.47, 1.50, 1.55, 1.57, 1.62, 1.75, 1.82, and 1.91. MWCNT growth could be observed for the range of equivalence ratios between 1.45 and 1.75, with the best yield restricted to the range 1.5–1.6. A one-dimensional premixed flame code with a postflame heat loss model, including detailed chemistry, was used to estimate the gas phase chemical composition that favors MWCNT growth. The results of the calculations show that the mixture, including the water gas shift reaction, is not even in partial chemical equilibrium. Therefore, past discussions of compositional parameters that relate to optimum carbon nanotube (CNT) growth are revised to include chemical kinetic effects. Specifically, rapid departures of the water gas shift reaction from partial equilibrium and changes in mole fraction ratios of unburned C 2 hydrocarbons to hydrogen correlate well with experimentally observed CNT yields.
Spatial Coupling in the Coordination of Complex Actions

The majority of investigations on coordinated action have focused on temporal constraints in movements. Recent studies have demonstrated spatial constraints when the hands produce different traject...
The Evolution of Human Populations: A Molecular Perspective

Human evolution exhibits repeated speciations and conspicuous morphological change: from Australopithecus to Homo habilis, H. erectus, and H. sapiens; and from their hominoid ancestor to orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and humans. Theories of founder-event speciation propose that speciation often occurs as a consequence of population bottlenecks, down to one or very few individual pairs. Proponents of punctuated equilibrium claim in addition that founder-event speciation results in rapid morphological change. The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) consists of several very polymorphic gene loci. The genealogy of 19 human alleles of the DQB1 locus coalesces more than 30 million years ago, before the divergence of apes and Old World monkeys. Many human alleles are more closely related to pongid and cercopithecoid alleles than to other human alleles. Using the theory of gene coalescence, we estimate that these polymorphisms require human populations of the order of N = 100,000 individuals for the last several million years. This conclusion is confirmed by computer simulations showing the rate of decay of the polymorphisms over time. Computer simulations indicate, in addition, that in human evolution no bottlenecks have occurred with fewer than several thousand individuals. We evaluate studies of mtDNA, Y-chromosome, and microsatellite autosomal polymorphisms and conclude that they are consistent with the MHC result that no narrow population bottlenecks have occurred in human evolution. The available molecular information favors a recent African origin of modern humans, who spread out of Africa approximately 100,000 to 200,000 years ago.
A snake bite associated with trauma.

Dr. Chris Leptak: Today’s case is that of a 46-year-old man who was brought to the Emergency Department (ED) after a motor vehicle crash (MVC). The patient reported that he was driving at a high rate of speed on the way to the hospital after being bitten by a snake. Paramedics reported that the car struck a pole on the side of the road. There was moderate damage to the car and the airbag was deployed. The windshield was intact and there was no damage to the inside of the vehicle. The patient was found sitting in the front seat awake and alert; he was unsure whether he lost consciousness. He only complained of left hand pain. The patient was placed in a cervical collar, moved on to a long board, and transported to the hospital. Dr. Eric Nadel: It is unclear whether this MVC was related to a snakebite, a high rate of speed, or some other reason. As he was the single driver involved in a MVC, it is important to think of other etiologies that may have caused the crash. Did the patient have any chest pain or headache? Did he have a history of diabetes, seizure, or other medical problems that may have predisposed the patient to syncope? Dr. Leptak: The paramedics reported no history of diabetes or seizure, and the patient denied headache, chest pain, or lightheadedness prior to the accident. Dr. David Peak: In the metropolitan area near Boston, it is unusual to see snake envenomations. Was there any further history from the patient regarding how the snakebite occurred? Also, please describe his appearance and physical examination upon presentation to the Emergency Department (ED). Dr. Leptak: The patient reported being bitten by a snake while hiking alone in the Blue Hills area of Massachusetts, approximately 15 miles southwest of Boston. He said that the snake made a “rattling noise.” Upon presentation to the ED the patient appeared anxious and agitated. His only complaint was pain in the left hand where he said the snake bit him. He denied headache, vision changes, neck pain, chest pain, abdominal or back pain, or extremity pain other than in the left hand. His past medical history was noted for a cavernous hemangioma resection in the remote past. He denied medications or allergies to medications. He drank alcohol infrequently, did not smoke, and denied use of recreational, i.v., or street drugs. On physical examination vital signs were: temperature 36.9°C (98.4°F), pulse 126 beats/min, systolic blood pressure 80 mm Hg, respirations 28 breaths per minute, and oxygen saturation 97% on room air. There was no evidence of head trauma. Extraocular motions were intact and the pupils were midsize and reactive bilaterally. The oropharynx was clear and without secretions. The trachea was midline, and there was no evidence of chest wall tenderness or crepitance. Breath sounds were clear
Passive alignment and its application in multilevel x-ray lithography

Many MEMS applications require multi-level microstructures in which two or more levels have to be aligned to each other in the processing. In this paper a passive alignment system based on a mechanical registration method utilizing reference posts is described. A detailed analysis of the test results was conducted to reveal main error sources and estimate the accuracy of this alignment method. An alignment accuracy of +/- 5(mu) m between 2 layers has been achieved. The further work on improving the alignment accuracy and expending in this alignment method to graphite masks for multi-level X-ray or combined optical/x-ray lithography is proposed.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Implantable magnetic relaxation sensors measure cumulative exposure to cardiac biomarkers

Molecular biomarkers can be used as objective indicators of pathologic processes. Although their levels often change over time, their measurement is often constrained to a single time point. Cumulative biomarker exposure would provide a fundamentally different kind of measurement to what is available in the clinic. Magnetic resonance relaxometry can be used to noninvasively monitor changes in the relaxation properties of antibody-coated magnetic particles when they aggregate upon exposure to a biomarker of interest. We used implantable devices containing such sensors to continuously profile changes in three clinically relevant cardiac biomarkers at physiological levels for up to 72 h. Sensor response differed between experimental and control groups in a mouse model of myocardial infarction and correlated with infarct size. Our prototype for a biomarker monitoring device also detected doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and can be adapted to detect other molecular biomarkers with a sensitivity as low as the pg/ml range.
Mesoscopic nonequilibrium thermodynamics of single macromolecules and dynamic entropy-energy compensation

We introduce axiomatically a complete thermodynamic formalism for a single macromolecule, either with or without detailed balance, in an isothermal ambient fluid based on its stochastic dynamics. With detailed balance, the theory yields mesoscopic, nonequilibrium for entropy $({\ensuremath{\Upsilon}}_{t})$ and free energy $({\ensuremath{\Psi}}_{t})$ of the macromolecule. ${\ensuremath{\Upsilon}}_{t}$ and ${\ensuremath{\Psi}}_{t}$ fluctuate. Expectation $(d/dt)E[{\ensuremath{\Psi}}_{t}]l~0,\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}``=''$holds if and only if the macromolecule is at thermal equilibrium, in which we show that ${\ensuremath{\Upsilon}}_{t}$ still fluctuates but ${\ensuremath{\Psi}}_{t}$ is a constant. The entropy fluctuation of Landau, $E[(\ensuremath{\Delta}{\ensuremath{\Upsilon}}_{t}{)}^{2}],$ precisely matches the fluctuation in the internal energy, which in turn equals the fluctuation in heat dissipation. As a generalization of Clausius' classic result, the dynamic fluctuations in the entropy and energy of the macromolecule are exactly compensated at thermal equilibrium. For systems with detailed balance, Helmholtz free energy is shown to be the potential of Onsager's thermodynamic force.
Calibrated U-TH glasses for neutron dosimetry and determination of uranium and thorium concentration by the fission track method

Abstract We have prepared a series of standard uranium glasses. A primary standard containing 41 ppm of added U had its concentration and isotope ratio verified by mass spectrometry and by fission track techniques. Secondary standards were compared to the primary standard using the fission track technique. These glasses are useful for measuring both Th and U in solids. The U concentration in an unknown is determined by comparing the fission track density induced by thermal neutron irradiation with the corresponding density in the standard. Th is measured by a cyclotron irradiation using the same U standards. The glasses are also useful for neutron dosimetry. Investigators may obtain small samples of most of these standards from R. H. Brill of the Corning Museum of Glass. Although most of the glasses were fabricated from depleted uranium, one standard containing natural uranium is available. A standard Th glass with concentration of 41 ppm was also made.
Platelet α–granules: Basic biology and clinical correlates

α-Granules are essential to normal platelet activity. These unusual secretory granules derive their cargo from both regulated secretory and endocytotic pathways in megakaryocytes. Rare, inheritable defects of α-granule formation in mice and man have enabled identification of proteins that mediate cargo trafficking and α-granule formation. In platelets, α-granules fuse with the plasma membrane upon activation, releasing their cargo and increasing platelet surface area. The mechanisms that control α-granule membrane fusion have begun to be elucidated at the molecular level. SNAREs and SNARE accessory proteins that control α-granule secretion have been identified. Proteomic studies demonstrate that hundreds of bioactive proteins are released from α-granules. This breadth of proteins implies a versatile functionality. While initially known primarily for their participation in thrombosis and hemostasis, the role of α-granules in inflammation, atherosclerosis, antimicrobial host defense, wound healing, angiogenesis, and malignancy has become increasingly appreciated as the function of platelets in the pathophysiology of these processes has been defined. This review will consider the formation, release, and physiologic roles of α-granules with special emphasis on work performed over the last decade.
THE USE OF AN ANALYTICAL RESPONSE FUNCTION FOR UNFOLDING BETA SPECTRA.

Abstract This paper describes the generation of an empirical, analytical response function for the measurement of electron energy by a thin plastic scintillator, the agreement between the response function and internal-conversion electron measurements, and the use of the response function for unfolding time-dependent beta energy spectra. The source of the beta spectra was the beta decays of fission products produced by the thermal-neutron fission of 235U. Results are given for the equilibrium beta spectrum.
A Comprehensive Utilization of Laterite Nickel Ore

Nickel is difficult to be enriched from laterite nickel ore with mineral processing. The traditional processes used for manufacturing nickel need high energy consumption and yield a large amount of metallurgy waste residue. A new method was developed. Nickel and iron was enriched firstly by leaching laterite nickel ore in concentrated alkali solution. In the process, silicon entered to the solution in the form of sodium silicate, and nickel and iron were remained in the residue in form of simple oxides due to the destroying of silicate structure. Ferronickel was obtained by magnetic separation after reducing the residue with carbon. The silicon dioxide was prepared using carbonation decomposition from the leaching solution. The alkali used in the leaching process was recycled and reused using causticizing technology.
Comparative Toxicities and Mutagenicities of Platinum Anticancer Drugs

A significant liability of cancer chemotherapy is the appearance of treatment-induced second primary carcinomas. Cisplatin is an example of a widely used anticancer drug believed to be carcinogenic in humans. This report evaluates the molecular basis for the mutagenicity and toxicity of cisplatin, and describes how an understanding of these factors enables the design and evaluation of equally effective, but less mutagenic, platinum drugs. The approach described herein, although focused on cisplatin, should be broadly applicable to include any DNA-acting drug.The major DNA adducts formed by cisplatin (Figure 1B) were incorporated into single-stranded M13mp7L2 DNA to form singly modified, biologically viable genomes. The toxicity and mutagenicity of each adduct was determined in vivo. Comparing the G*G* and A *G * adducts, which collectively comprise approximately 90% of all DNA adducts formed by cisplatin, the G*G* adduct was more than fourfold less mutagenic than the A*G* adduct while possessing equal or ...
Lewis hypothalamic cells constitutively and upon stimulation express higher levels of mRNA for pro-inflammatory cytokines and related molecules: comparison with inflammatory resistant Fischer rat hypothalamic cells.

Abstract Endogenous hypothalamic pro-inflammatory cytokines modulate the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis responses. To investigate whether hypothalamic IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are associated with differential inflammatory susceptibilities between Lewis (LEW/N) and Fischer (F344/N) rats, mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and related molecules in hypothalamic cell cultures of both strains were quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In addition to IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and their receptors, LEW/N hypothalamic cells also transcribed more anti-inflammatory molecules, IL-1RII, IL-1RA, and transforming growth factor (TGFβ1), than F334/N cells. Our findings suggest that a balance exists between transcripts for endogenous pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules in LEW/N rats that may allow them, under basal conditions, to maintain hypothalamic homeostasis and health. However, under stimulated conditions, this balance may be more easily perturbed toward chronic inflammation.
Energy budget of the Volcano Stromboli, Italy

The results of the analyses of movies of eruptions at Stromboli, Italy, and other available data are used to discuss the question of its energy partitioning among various energy transport mechanisms. Energy is transported to the surface from active volcanoes in at least eight modes, viz. conduction (and convection) of the heat through the surface, radiative heat transfer from the vent, acoustical radiation in blast and jet noise, seismic radiation, thermal energy of ejected particles, kinetic energy of ejected particles, thermal energy of ejected gas, and kinetic energy of ejected gas. Estimated values of energy flux from Stromboli by these eight mechanisms are tabulated. The energy budget of Stromboli in its normal mode of activity appears to be dominated by heat conduction (and convection) through the ground surface. Heat carried by eruption gases is the most important of the other energy transfer modes. Radiated heat from the open vent and heat carried by ejected lava particles also contribute to the total flux, while seismic energy accounts for about 0.5% of the total. All other modes are trivial by comparison.
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY MEASUREMENTS OF BRAIN DENSITY IN SCHIZOPHRENIA

Abstract Although previous studies have reported differences in computed tomography (CT scan attenuation values between patients with schizophrenia and controls, interpretation of these findings has been hindered by methodological shortcomings such as the failure to control for head size, scanner calibration differences, and other confounding variables. In the present study of CT attenuation values in multiple brain regions in 20 patients with chronic schizophrenia and an equal number of age- and sex-matched normal subjects we controlled for head size and normalized the attenuation values for each scan to an internal standard. No significant differences emerged between the patients with schizophrenia and the controls. However, in the controls only, the mean density of white matter in the left frontal area was significantly higher ( t = −2.83, p = 0.01) than that in the right. The results, although possibly suggestive of deviant lateralization in schizophrenia, raise questions about the sensitivity and validity of regional CT attenuation values in detecting subtle anatomic abnormalities in patients with this illness.