cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enzyme Immobilization on Graphite Oxide (GO) Surface via One-pot Synthesis of GO/Metal-Organic Framework Composites for Large-Substrate Biocatalysis

Although enzyme immobilization has improved many areas, biocatalysis involving large-size substrates is still challenging for immobilization platform design because of the protein damage under the often "harsh" reaction conditions required for these reactions. Our recent efforts indicate the potential of using Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) to partially confine enzymes on the surface of MOF-based composites while offering sufficient substrate contact. Still, improvements are required to expand the feasible pH range and the efficiency of contacting substrates. In this contribution, we discovered that Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework (ZIF) and a new calcium-carboxylate based MOF (CaBDC) can both be coprecipitated with a model large-substrate enzyme, lysozyme (lys), to anchor the enzyme on the surface of graphite oxide (GO). We observed lys activity against its native substrate, bacterial cell walls, indicating lys was confined on composite surface. Remarkably, lys@GO/CaBDC displayed a stronger catalytic efficiency at pH 6.2 as compared to pH 7.4, indicating CaBDC is a good candidate for biocatalysis under acidic conditions as compared to ZIFs which disassemble under pH < 7. Furthermore, to understand the regions of lys being exposed to the reaction medium, we carried out a site-directed spin labeling (SDSL) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy study. Our data showed a preferential orientation of lys in GO/ZIF composite, whereas a random orientation in GO/CaBDC. This is the first report on immobilizing solution-state large-substrate enzymes on GO surface using two different MOFs via one-pot synthesis. These platforms can be generalized to other large-substrate enzymes to carry out catalysis under the optimal buffer/pH conditions. The orientation of enzyme at the molecular level on composite surfaces is critical for guiding the rational design of new composites.
Revisiting prosthesis choice in mitral valve replacement in children: Durable alternatives to traditional bioprostheses.

Abstract Objective To determine risk factors for re-replacement and death or transplant following mitral valve replacement (MVR) in children Methods This is a retrospective 26-year review of patients younger than 20 years of age undergoing MVR between 1992 and 2018 at single institution. Outcomes included freedom from re-MVR and transplant-free survival. Cox proportional hazards regression models assessed association between outcomes and potential risk factors. Results At median age 4.2 years, 190 children underwent 290 MVR: 180 mechanical, 63 porcine, 13 pericardial, and 34 stented bovine jugular vein valves. Re-MVR occurred in 100 valves. Freedom from re-MVR at 5 and 10 years was 76% and 44%. Times to re-MVR were associated with prosthesis type (P Conclusions In pediatric patients undergoing MVR, mechanical and stented bovine jugular vein valves were associated with increased durability compared with fixed-diameter bioprosthetic alternatives.
β + Decay of 20 Na

The decay scheme of $^{20}\mathrm{Na}$ has been studied in detail to obtain information on the $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay mirror symmetry properties of the mass-20 multiplet and to determine the Fermi decay strength to the $T=1$ isobaric analog state in $^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$. The ratio $\frac{{\mathrm{ft}}^{+}}{{\mathrm{ft}}^{\ensuremath{-}}}$ was determined to be 1.026 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.024 for the ${\ensuremath{\beta}}^{+}$ transitions to the first excited state of $^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$. The $\mathrm{ft}$ value for the transition to the $T=1, 10.278$-MeV level was measured to be 2992 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 233 sec indicating that most of the Fermi strength is concentrated in this transition. A weak $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ transition from the ${2}^{+}$ isobaric analog state to the ${2}^{+}$ first excited state of $^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$ was observed and new ${\ensuremath{\beta}}^{+}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ groups are reported at 3.27, 5.272, and 5.701 MeV. Theoretical $\mathrm{ft}$ values derived from the shell-model wave functions are compared with experiment.
Imaging of Macrophage-Like Cells in Living Human Retina Using Clinical OCT.

Purpose To image retinal macrophages at the vitreoretinal interface in the living human retina using a clinical optical coherence tomography (OCT) device. Methods Eighteen healthy controls and three patients with retinopathies were imaged using a clinical spectral-domain OCT. In controls, 10 sequential scans were collected at three different locations: (1) ∼9 degrees temporal to the fovea, (2) the macula, and (3) the optic nerve head (ONH). Intervisit repeatability was evaluated by imaging the temporal retina twice on the same day and 3 days later. Only 10 scans at the temporal retina were obtained from each patient. A 3-µm OCT reflectance (OCT-R) slab located above the inner limiting membrane (ILM) surface was averaged. Results In controls, ramified macrophage-like cells with regular spatial separation were visualized in the temporal and ONH OCT-R images; however, cell structures were not resolvable at the macula. Interim changes in cell position suggestive of cell translocation were observed between images collected on the same day and those collected 3 days later. There was considerable variation in cell density and nearest-neighbor distance (NND) across controls. Mean ± SD cell densities measured at the temporal and ONH were 78 ± 23 cells/mm2 and 57 ± 16 cells/mm2, respectively. Similarly, mean ± SD NNDs measured at the temporal and ONH were 74.3 ± 13.3 µm and 93.3 ± 20.0 µm, respectively. Nonuniform spatial distribution and altered morphology of the cells were identified in patients with retinopathies. Conclusions Our findings showed regular spatial separation and ramified morphology of macrophage-like cells on the ILM surface with cell translocation over time in controls. Their distribution and morphology suggest an origin of macrophage-like cells such as microglia or hyalocytes.
DERECHO Y VIOLENCIA: LA “OBJETIVIDAD” COMO ESPACIO DE SU INDISTINCIÓN. EL CASO DE LA CONSTITUCIÓN CHILENA DE 1980.

This paper explores the complex relationship between law and violence. It proposes a critical reading of the interpretation mechanisms that try to override the political dimensions of the Constitution. In particular, it analyzes the “originalism” of the Chilean constitutionalism that appeals to the objectivity of the Constitution, founded in the notion of truth hidden behind the idea of origin. Following the critical theory approach –Benjamin, Foucault, among others– the paper questions the assumptions that set aside the debate on the political content of the 1980 Chilean Constitution.
In Memory of Jerome L. Singer

Jerome L. Singer was founding editor of Imagination, Cognition, and Personality, and was co-editor for 29 years. The author of this tribute in his memory was his co-editor for the last 9 of those 2...
Prediction of post-laser fetal death in selective growth restriction complicating twin-twin transfusion syndrome using standardized definitions.

Objective Selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) complicating twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is associated with 3 to 6 fold increased risk of fetal demise after fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS). Identifying these patients is challenging due to varying definitions used in the literature. Our objective was to determine the association of three currently used definitions for sFGR with demise of the smaller twin, typically the donor, following FLS METHODS: Retrospective cohort of monochorionic diamniotic pregnancies undergoing FLS for TTTS between January 2015 to December 2018. The entire cohort was classified as sFGR and non sFGR using 3 different criteria: 1- International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) as estimated fetal weight (EFW) of either twin 25% (Group A); 2- Delphi methods, EFW of either twin 95th centile (Group C). Pearson chi square, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results One hundred and twenty four patients underwent FLS between January 2015 and December 2018 for TTTS. 46/124 (37.1%) cases were identified as sFGR by ISUOG criteria (Group A), 57/124 (46%) cases were identified based on EFW Conclusions Fetal demise following FLS is increased in the presence of sFGR. Improving diagnosis of sFGR, will improve counseling and may affect management. Delphi method of defining sFGR based on presence of 2 of the 4 criteria had the highest predictive value of donor demise following FLS. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
SOFIA Observations of SN 2010jl: Another Non-Detection of the 9.7 μm Silicate Dust Feature

We present photometric observations from the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) at 11.1 micrometers of the Type IIn supernova (SN IIn) 2010jl. The SN is undetected by SOFIA, but the upper limits obtained, combined with new and archival detections from Spitzer at 3.6 and 4.5 micrometers, allow us to characterize the composition of the dust present. Dust in other SN IIn has been shown in previous works to reside in a circumstellar shell of material ejected by the progenitor system in the few millennia prior to explosion. Our model fits show that the dust in the system shows no evidence for the strong, ubiquitous 9.7 micrometer feature from silicate dust, suggesting the presence of carbonaceous grains. The observations are best fit with 0.01−0.05 solar mass of carbonaceous dust radiating at a temperature of approximately 550−620 degrees Kelvin. The dust composition may reveal clues concerning the nature of the progenitor system, which remains ambiguous for this subclass. Most of the single star progenitor systems proposed for SNe IIn, such as luminous blue variables, red supergiants, yellow hypergiants, and B[e] stars, all clearly show silicate dust in their pre-SN outflows. However, this post-SN result is consistent with the small sample of SNe IIn with mid-infrared observations, none of which show signs of emission from silicate dust in their infrared spectra.
Telehealth-enabled behavioral treatment for problem behaviors in boys with fragile X syndrome: a randomized controlled trial.

Children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) are at increased risk for exhibiting problem behaviors such as aggression and self-injury. However, many children with FXS have limited access to behavioral treatments that have known efficacy due to the low availability of treatment providers and the wide geographical dispersion of families with FXS across the country. Telehealth may offer a cost-effective and practical solution to overcome these significant barriers. We examined the effect of administering an established behavior analytic intervention called functional communication training (FCT) via telehealth on levels of problem behaviors exhibited by boys with FXS. We also examined treatment acceptability, as well as the effect of the treatment on levels of parenting stress. Boys with FXS, aged 3 to 10 years, who displayed problem behaviors daily, were randomized to receive FCT via telehealth (n = 30) or treatment as usual (n = 27) over 12 weeks. Outcome measures included in-session observations of problem behavior, the Aberrant Behavior Checklist—Community (ABC-C), the Treatment Acceptability Rating Form—Revised (TARF-R), and the Parenting Stress Index, 4th edition (PSI-4). Intention-to-treat analyses indicated that scores on the irritability subscale of the ABC-C, our primary outcome measure, decreased significantly for boys who received FCT via telehealth compared to boys who received treatment as usual (p < .001, Cohen’s d = 0.65). In-session observations conducted for those who received treatment showed that levels of problem behavior decreased by 91% from baseline. Levels of parenting stress related to child behavioral problems were also lower following FCT treatment, and caregivers reported that the intervention was acceptable. These findings support telehealth-enabled FCT as a framework for expanding access to behavioral treatments for problem behaviors in children with FXS. Expanded delivery of behavior analytic treatment via telehealth also has the potential to lower healthcare costs, improve child and family quality of life, and lead to advances in the treatment of problem behavior in the broader population of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03510156 . Registered 27 April 2018
H~∞ control of continuous-time Markov jump singular systems subject to incomplete transition rates

The H∞ control problem of Markov jump singular systems with incomplete transition rates is discussed. A new bounded real lemma for continuous time Markov jump singular systems is derived and then expanded to systems with partial transition rates. Moreover, an H∞ controller is designed to make sure that the closed-loop systems are admissible and satisfy H∞ criteria. The given method also covers the systems with the mode-dependent singular matrix and the controller is designed in terms of a set of strict linear matrix inequalities. Finally, a simulation example is given to illustrate the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method.
Reciprocal longitudinal associations between anxiety sensitivity and alcohol consumption/problems across adolescence: Examining anxiety as a mediator and race/ethnicity as a moderator.

Abstract The conditions and populations for which anxiety sensitivity (AS; i.e., the tendency to interpret unpleasant physiological sensations as dangerous) relates to adolescent alcohol use is unclear. This study tested latent-variable cross-lagged panel modeling of AS-alcohol relations in a racially/ethnically heterogenous longitudinal youth cohort (N = 3396; 53.4% female, 45.8% Latinx) assessed annually across high school. Anxiety and race/ethnicity were tested as mediators and moderators, respectively, of AS-alcohol associations. AS prospectively predicted alcohol problems (β′s = 0.05–0.07) but not alcohol consumption (β′s = 0.02–0.04) across high school. Alcohol problems predicted AS at the end (β = 0.09) but not beginning (β′s = 0.01–0.03) of high school and alcohol consumption predicted lower AS at the beginning (β = −0.06) but not end (β′s = −0.02-0.01) of high school. Anxiety mediated AS's predictive effects on alcohol problems (βindirect's = 0.01, 95% CI [0.003, 0.03]) across high school. Race/ethnicity did not moderate interrelations of AS, anxiety, and alcohol outcomes. These findings lend support to the risk factor model of AS on alcohol problems (but not consumption) through anxiety and the scar/complication model whereby alcohol problems may exacerbate AS later in adolescence. Addressing reciprocal risk processes between AS, anxiety, and alcohol problems warrant consideration in adolescent behavioral health promotion for various racial/ethnic populations.
Jail as a Point of Contraceptive Care Access: Needs and Preferences Among Women in an Urban Jail

INTRODUCTION Individuals who are incarcerated in the United States often struggle to access family planning care because of the common practice of jails not providing contraceptives on site. However, less is known about the contraceptive needs and preferences, including the desirability of intrauterine devices and implants, among those who are incarcerated. METHODS Cross-sectional, in-person surveys were administered to 148 reproductive-age women (aged 18-48) incarcerated at an urban jail in Utah to identify women's contraceptive needs and preferences while incarcerated. We used summary statistics and logistic regression to investigate relationships between demographic characteristics, the desire to access contraceptive services while incarcerated, and interest in specific contraceptive methods. RESULTS Surveys indicate a high interest in accessing contraceptives while in jail (73%). Participants who were more likely to prefer access to contraceptive services in jail were also more likely to be interested in the injectable (odds ratio [OR], 4.75; 95% CI, 1.03-21.94), the implant (OR, 8.44; 95% CI, 1.70-41.99), and intrauterine devices (OR, 10.04; 95% CI, 3.46-29.20) than participants indicating no desire to access contraceptive services while in jail. DISCUSSION Jails could be an access point for contraceptive methods requiring health care provider intervention in the state of Utah. However, care must be taken due to broader historical legacies of reproductive coercion in carceral settings.
The Academic Impact of Advanced Clinical Fellowship Training among General Thoracic Surgeons.

OBJECTIVE Advanced clinical fellowship training has become a popular option for surgical trainees seeking to bolster their clinical training and expertise. However, the long-term academic impact of this additional training following a traditional thoracic surgery fellowship is unknown. This study aimed to delineate the impact of an advanced clinical fellowship on subsequent research productivity and advancement in academic career among general thoracic surgeons. METHODS Using an internally constructed database of active, academic general thoracic surgeons who are current faculty at accredited cardiothoracic surgery training programs within the United States, surgeons were dichotomized according to whether an advanced clinical fellowship was completed or not. Academic career metrics measured by research productivity, scholarly impact (H-index), funding by the National Institutes of Health, and academic rank were compared. RESULTS Among 285 general thoracic surgeons, 89 (31.2%) underwent an advanced fellowship, whereas 196 (68.8%) did not complete an advanced fellowship. The most commonly pursued advanced fellowship was minimally invasive thoracic surgery (32.0%). There were no differences between the two groups in terms of gender, international medical training, or postgraduate education. Those who completed an advanced clinical fellowship were less likely to have completed a dedicated research fellowship compared to those who had not completed any additional clinical training (58.4% vs. 74.0%, p = 0.0124). Surgeons completing an advanced clinical fellowship demonstrated similar cumulative first-author publications (p = 0.4572), last-author publications (p = 0.7855), H-index (p = 0.9651), National Institutes of Health funding (p = 0.7540), and years needed to advance to associate professor (p = 0.3410) or full rank professor (p = 0.1545) compared to surgeons who did not complete an advanced fellowship. These findings persisted in sub-analyses controlling for surgeons completing a dedicated research fellowship. CONCLUSIONS Academic general thoracic surgeons completing an advanced clinical fellowship demonstrate similar research output and ascend the academic ladder at a similar pace as those not pursuing additional training.
Does a Centralized Scheduling Process Improve Referral Timeliness

BACKGROUND Timely, necessary specialist care is associated with better patient health outcomes and lower costs. This assessment looks at the effects of centralized scheduling, as well as patient and referral-level factors on referral completion rates. We hypothesized that centralized scheduling would increase access to specialty care, as evidenced by higher referral completion rates. METHODS We analyzed data for specialty referrals to cardiology, nephrology, gastroenterology, and neurology from 6 months before to 6 months after implementation of a centralized scheduling system within a midwestern academic health system. We considered a referral complete if an appointment occurred within 3 months following an order for service. RESULTS Overall, referral completion rates modestly increased (63.7% to 69.9%, P < 0.01), but this was driven by improvement within a single specialty (gastroenterology, 54.2% to 67.3%, P < 0.05). Other specialties saw either no significant change (neurology, nephrology) or a decrease (cardiology, 87.3% to 78.6%, P < 0.05). The time to schedule, or cycle time, improved overall from 21 days (SD 8-38) to 15 days (SD 8-30), P <0.05. CONCLUSIONS Centralized scheduling had inconsistent effects on referral completion across specialties, though the process (cycle time) improved. Variable implementation fidelity and microenvironments likely contributed to uneven findings across specialties. Centralized scheduling may improve timely access but likely depends on implementation and buy-in.
Seeing What We Know, Knowing What We See: Challenging the Limits of Visual Acuity

Ageism has resulted in overstated expectations regarding the inevitable deterioration in human capabilities, such as visual perception, with age (Rowe & Kahn, 1987; Grant, 1996). Human visual perception, however, is of a largely constructive nature, evidenced in the complementary interactions between top-down inputs (e.g., expectations) and bottom-up stimuli (Engel, Fries, & Singer, 2001; Miller & Cohen, 2001). Based on this constructive nature, we hypothesized that visual perception may be better than is typically expected. In three experiments, we demonstrated the malleability of visual acuity using a conditioning procedure involving manipulations in bottom-up stimuli. Experimental groups read a book excerpt with one letter in decreased font size while the control groups read the same book excerpt with all letters in the same font size. Experiment 1 (N = 112) examined whether visual acuity could be enhanced for a specific letter. Experiment 2 (N = 70) assessed whether visual acuity could be enhanced for a non-conditioned letter while Experiment 3 (N = 108) evaluated whether the visual conditioning effects would transfer to all non-conditioned letters. Visual acuity for experimental groups was significantly better than that in the control groups, speaking to the general malleability of our visual sense.
Does Disagreement Mitigate Polarization? How Selective Exposure and Disagreement Affect Political Polarization

This study examines how selective exposure and interpersonal political disagreement influence political polarization. Using data sets from two countries, the United States and South Korea, this stu...
Examining Millennial Characterizations as Guidance for Choosing Classroom Strategy Changes.

This project reports exploration of the expectations of the students in my large public Midwestern university about learning processes and their teachers. Its objective was to help ground my own reflections on whether and how the pedagogical changes proposed to accommodate the Millennial generation are appropriate for my students and for me. Data were gathered through a survey (n = 204) based on the literature and specifically focusing on claims made about the Millennial generational group. I then sought to identify additional issues and to hear the students’ own reflections on teaching and learning through three focus groups. Results indicated that some student responses to items reflecting generational characterizations were consistent with stereotypical claims, but some were not. This paper then presents my reflection about how results inform how I might proceed as I seek to support learning in my students.
Effects of Oxidation and Creep Damage Mechanisms on Creep Rupture Behavior in Hiped Silicon Nitrides

The creep resistance of hot-isostatically pressed (HIPed) silicon nitride materials is ultimately dictated by its susceptibility to creep enhanced damage (e.g. cavitation) and oxidation induced damage. The evolution of these simultaneously occurring events has been examined in several HIPed silicon nitrides which were tested in tension at elevated temperatures. The activity and extent of each have found to be functions of several variables. These parameters and their roles are discussed and include the following: initial {alpha}/{beta} ratio of silicon nitride grains, reaction of stable/unstable phases in the as-received material, percentage and type of sintering aid, and grain boundary crystallinity, impurity content, and viscosity.
Experience in the Automatic Parallelization of Four Perfect-Benchmark Programs

This paper discusses the techniques used to hand-parallelize, for the Alliant FX/80, four Fortran programs from the Perfect-Benchmark suite. The paper also includes the execution times of the programs before and after the transformations. The four programs considered here were not effectively parallelized by the automatic translators available to the authors. However, most of the techniques used for hand parallelization, and perhaps all of them, have wide applicability and can be incorporated into existing translators.
Abstract 4243: EGFR inhibition causes growth delay and induces apoptosis in HPV-positive head and neck cancer

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Purpose: Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), is approved for use in the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC). However, studies of cetuximab were performed with HPV-negative cells, clinical trials were performed without regard to HPV status, and current studies on HPV+ HNC treatment with cetuximab are contradicting. This study was performed to determine whether HPV+ HNC responds to cetuximab and to examine the mechanisms through which cetuximab affects HPV+ HNC. Methods: Four HPV+ cell lines were assessed for EGFR expression by immunoblot. Sensitivity to cetuximab was tested by examining cell proliferation and colony formation. Apoptosis was measured by caspase activation, flow cytometry for Annexin V, and immunoblot. Cell cycle was assessed by immunoblot and flow cytometry for propidium iodide stained cells. HPV+ HNC subcutaneous flank cell line xenografts and patient-derived xenografts were placed in immunocompromised mice treated with cetuximab, tumor size was measured twice weekly. Results: Cetuximab treatment resulted in significant delay in cell proliferation and significant decrease in colony formation. Cetuximab caused an increase in apoptosis in all methods measured. Also, as previously seen in HPV- cell lines, cetuximab resulted in a G1 cell cycle arrest. Using both cell line and patient-derived xenograft models of HPV+ HNCs, cetuximab resulted in significant tumor growth delay (median time to tumor quadrupling: 15 vs. 24 days, and 42 vs. 89 days, respectively). Conclusions: Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition by cetuximab is effective in slowing proliferation and inducing apoptosis in HPV+ HNC. The proposed mechanism of action appears to be similar to that shown in HPV- HNC. These results suggest that cetuximab may play a role in the management of patients with HPV+ HNC. Citation Format: Alexandra D. Torres Law, Grace C. Blitzer, Molly A. Smith, Eric A. Armstrong, Randall J. Kimple. EGFR inhibition causes growth delay and induces apoptosis in HPV-positive head and neck cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 4243. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-4243
Prediction of Volatilization Rates of Chemicals in Water

Transport of chemicals from water bodies and wastewater treatment facilities to the atmosphere by volatilization (evaporation) can be an important environmental pathway for certain chemicals. Liss and Slater (1974) and Mackay and Leinonen (1975) assumed a two-film model in which the rates of diffusion in air and in water control the rate of transfer of a chemical across the interface between air and water.
LGBTQ-inclusive curricula: why supportive curricula matter

There is growing attention to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) issues in schools, including efforts to address such issues through the curriculum. This study examines whether students’ perceptions of personal safety and school climate safety are stronger when curricula that include LGBTQ people are present and supportive. LGBTQ and straight middle and high school students from California (1232 students from 154 schools) participated in the 2008 Preventing School Harassment survey. They reported their experience of LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum, its level of supportiveness and perceptions of safety. Multilevel methods allowed for an examination of differences between individuals in the same school while controlling for differences between schools. LGBTQ-inclusive curricula were associated with higher reports of safety at the individual and school levels, and lower levels of bullying at the school level. The amount of support also mattered: supportive curricula were related to...
Cytological Studies of Deoxyribonucleic Acid Replication in Escherichia coli 15T−: Replication at Slow Growth Rates and After a Shift-Up into Rich Medium

We examined the gross nuclear morphology of Escherichia coli 15T− grown in different media with doubling times ranging from 22 to 270 min. In slowly growing cells, deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis was measured by autoradiography and shown to occur with greatest probability during the first two-thirds of the division cycle. In such cells, segregation occurred later, at the end of the division cycle rather than at the end of deoxyribonucleic acid replication. Nuclear regions in L-broth cells (22-min doubling time) cannot correspond to separate chromosomes but probably represent regions of replication activity. Segregation of template nucleotide strands was measured after a shift-up from proline M9 or glucose M9 media into L broth. A model is presented to account for the pattern of segregation observed.
Time Evolution of Electrons and Nuclei in Molecular Systems

Chemical change on the most fundamental level happens because of the dynamics of electrons and nuclei. Such dynamics is studied by solving the time-dependent Schrodinger equation. There is a growing literature of methods for accomplishing this difficult task by what can be referred to as “direct approaches”. Such numerical methods have two key features. One is the representation of the wavefunction, e.g. by expansion coefficients in a basis set, or by discretization on a grid of points. This in turn determines how one evaluates the action of the operators, in particular the Hamiltonian Ĥ = K&#x0302 + V with its kinetic energy operator K and its potential energy operator V, on the wavefunction. The other feature is the actual time propagation algorithm, i.e. how the solution is marched over a time interval, given its value at the initial time.
Hydrogen bonding. Part 25. The nature of the hydrogen bond in hydroxytropenylium chloride (tropone hydrochloride)

Abstract Hydroxytropenylium iodide and bromide contain normal electrostatic OH⋯X− hydrogen bonds. Hydroxytropenylium chloride, however, contains a hydrogen bond intermediate between the normal electrostatic type and the very strong covalent type, similar to the hydrogen bonds found in choline fluoride or the Type I C∞v hydrogen dihalide ions. Infrared comparisons with compounds previously studied demonstrate that the hydroxytropenylium ion is a stronger hydrogen bond donor than either choline cation or protonated betaine cation, and suggest that hydroxytropenylium fluoride, if it can be prepared, should contain a three-center covalent hydrogen bond.
Foodservice and Solid Waste Policies: A View in Three Dimensions:

The purpose of this paper was to discuss the solid waste problem from three perspectives—that of the foodservice industry/operator, the solid waste policymakers in government, and the public, inclu...
Ion implantation issues in microelectronic device manufacturing

Ion implantation is one of the most common steps in the manufacture of integrated circuits. In a typical CMOS process, it is used 15 to 18 times for selective doping. The major advantages of ion implantation are the masking flexibility, throughput, extendibility to larger wafers, and ability to form impurity profiles that are not possible with simple diffusion. Profiles such as single and multiple retrograde wells, buried layers, and flexible "drain engineering" can be produced to construct high-performance devices and novel three-dimensional structures for memory, logic, and analog applications. Ion implantation systems are, however, very complex and can create problems related to non uniformities and defects, limiting product yield. These problems include heavy metal contamination and particulates, species cross-contamination, photo resist masking defects, dose monitoring inaccuracies, wafer charging, and crystal damage. In this paper, we review the current status of ion implantation issues from the perspective of device yield and cost. We discuss methods that are implemented to reduce or eliminate problems and present results obtained in memory and logic applications.
S 77 e NMR investigation of the field-induced spin-density-wave transitions in ( TMTSF ) 2 ClO 4

Complementary $^{77}\text{S}\text{e}$ nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electrical transport have been used to correlate the spin-density dynamics with the subphases of the field-induced spin-density wave (FISDW) ground state in ${(\text{TMTSF})}_{2}{\text{ClO}}_{4}$. We have found that the peaks in the spin-lattice relaxation rate $1/{T}_{1}$ appear within the metal-FISDW phase boundary and/or at first-order subphase transitions. In the quantum limit above 25 T, the NMR data have given an insight into the FISDW electronic structure.
Efficacy and safety of treatment of hepatitis C in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Background & Aims There is uncertainty about the efficacy and safety of treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD can become exacerbated during treatment with interferon (IFN), and serious adverse events, such as pancytopenia or hepatotoxicity, can be compounded by drug interactions. We investigated the risk of exacerbation of IBD during HCV therapy and the rate of adverse effects of concomitant therapy for HCV and IBD. We also evaluated the efficacy of HCV treatment in the IBD population. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of all patients who underwent IFN-based treatment for HCV at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota from 2001 to 2012. Exacerbation of IBD was evaluated by clinical, endoscopic, and histologic parameters during antiviral therapy and the ensuing 12 months. Hematologic toxicity was assessed by levels of all 3 cell lineages at baseline and during therapy. Efficacy of antiviral treatment was assessed by serum levels of HCV RNA until 24 weeks after completion of therapy. We also conducted a detailed MEDLINE database search and reviewed the literature on this topic. Results We identified 15 subjects with concomitant IBD (8 with ulcerative colitis and 7 with Crohn's disease). Only 1 patient experienced exacerbation of the disease during therapy; symptoms were controlled with mesalamine enemas. Another patient developed a flare shortly after completing antiviral therapy; symptoms returned spontaneously to baseline 2 weeks later. All subjects experienced an anticipated degree of pancytopenia while on IFN-based therapy. The rate of sustained virologic response was 67%. A concise review of available literature regarding the safety and efficacy of HCV treatment in IBD patients is also presented; although limited, the published data appear to support the safety of treatment with IFN in patients whose IBD is under control. Conclusions In conjunction with data from the literature, our findings indicate that the efficacy and safety of HCV therapy with IFN and ribavirin for patients with IBD are comparable to those of subjects without IBD.
Discrimination of rising and falling simulated single-formant frequency transitions: practice and transition duration effects

Two experiments evaluated discrimination of simulated single‐formant frequency transitions. In the first experiment, listeners received practice with trial‐by‐trial feedback in discriminating either rising or falling frequency transitions of three different durations (30, 60, and 120 ms). Transitions either occurred in isolation or were followed by a steady‐state sound matched in frequency to the transition end point. Some improvement in discrimination over practice runs occurred for the shortest transitions. Whether performance was evaluated at the beginning or end of practice, there were no differences attributable to transition direction or to whether transitions were followed by steady‐state sound. Discrimination, however, was significantly better for the longest transitions. Just noticeable differences (jnd’s) for the longest transitions, measured in Hz at transition onsets, were of approximately the same magnitude as jnd’s for steady‐state sounds that were equal in frequency to the midpoints of the transitions. Subjects of the second experiment discriminated the longer rising and falling transitions, but did not receive extensive practice. Results of experiment 2 replicated results of experiment 1 in showing similar jnd’s. Experiment 2 also showed no differences attributable to transition direction or to the presence of the steady‐state sound following transitions.
Nitric oxide-independent activation of soluble guanylate cyclase by BAY 60-2770 in experimental liver fibrosis.

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic disease with high mortality rate and need for effective pharmacological intervention. The fibrotic remodelling of liver tissue is crucially dependent on hepatic stellate cell activation. Activation of hepatic stellate cells is reduced by an increase in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Stable cGMP analogues also reduce the contractile response of hepatic stellate cells. However, cGMP production is downregulated in the cirrhotic liver due to the reduced activity of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Here we report that the novel activator of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), BAY 60-2770 (4-({(4-carboxy-butyl)[2-(5-fluoro-2-{[4’-(trifluoromethyl) biphenyl-4-yl]methoxy}phenyl)ethyl]amino}methyl)benzoic acid), which increases the activity of sGC in a nitric oxide-independent manner, attenuates liver fibrosis in two rat models. The compound was studied in the pig serum model and the carbon tetrachloride model. Fibrosis was assessed by estimating the increase in fibrous collagen by micromorphometry of histological sections stained with Sirius Red/Fast Green and by measuring total hepatic collagen. BAY 60-2770, on a recombinant sGC reporter cell line, stimulated the luminescence signals with an EC50 value of 5.4 ±1.2 nmol/L. In the presence of 1 2 4 oxadiazolo [4,3-a] quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ; 10 µmol/L) the EC50 was shifted to 0.39 ±0.11 nmol/L. In both fibrosis models, once daily oral administration of BAY 60-2770 concomittantly with the fibrotic stimulus prevented 60–75% of fibrosis, the lowest effective dose being 0.1 mg/kg in the pig serum model and 0.3 mg/kg in the carbon tetrachloride model. The treatment was well tolerated by all animals. The doses used were devoid of any significant influence on systemic blood pressure. Nitric oxide-independent activation of sGC might be an innovative therapeutic approach for the treatment of liver fibrosis of necro-inflammatory and immunological origin.
Preliminary Statistical Analysis of PAH-Contaminated Soils

Current research has proven bioremediation to be extremely effective for the cleanup of contaminated soils. Although bioremediation is effective, it still faces serious doubts on its implementation at a full-scale site. This is primarily due to minute differences encountered with each specific microbial species, supplemental nutrients, and the interaction between microbe and nutrient used at each site. The objective of this research was to determine the statistical significance of the choice of microorganism, nutrient solution, and their respective interaction effects. Specifically, the use of three different bacteria and three supplemental nutrient solutions was investigated for the remediation of soil contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Spin tunneling heads above 20 Gb/in/sup 2/

Spin tunneling recording heads above 20 Gb/in/sup 2/ have been fabricated using a bottom tunneling junction stack. The spin tunneling stack is made of Ta/PtMn/CoFe/Ru/CoFe/AlO/NiFe/Ta and stabilized by a permanent magnet abutted junction. The effective junction width is about 0.4 /spl mu/m wide and lapped to the junction with an optimum stripe height. The barrier has resistance area product of 15-20 /spl Omega//spl mu/m/sup 2/, leading to a typical head resistance of around 50 /spl Omega/. Isolated pulses during the spin-stand test shows large signal up to 10 mV. On track error rate floor is better than 10/sup -9/ and the head signal-to-noise ratio is also better than that of. a conventional spin valve GMR head. The areal density estimated (using BER of 10/sup -5/) is above 20 Gb/in/sup 2/.
Nonnormal Thermohaline Circulation Dynamics in a Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere GCM

Abstract Using the GFDL coupled atmosphere–ocean general circulation model CM2.1, the transient amplification of thermohaline circulation (THC) anomalies due to its nonnormal dynamics is studied. A reduced space based on empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs) of temperature and salinity anomaly fields in the North Atlantic is constructed. Under the assumption that the dynamics of this reduced space is linear, the propagator of the system is then evaluated and the transient growth of THC anomalies analyzed. Although the linear dynamics are stable, such that any initial perturbation eventually decays, nonnormal effects are found to result in a significant transient growth of temperature, salinity, and THC anomalies. The growth time scale for these anomalies is between 5 and 10 yr, providing an estimate of the predictability time of the North Atlantic THC in this model. There are indications that these results are merely a lower bound on the nonnormality of THC dynamics in the present coupled GCM. This seems ...
On the equivalence between Stein identity and de Bruijn identity

This paper illustrates the equivalence between two fundamental results: Stein identity, originally proposed in the statistical estimation realm, and de Bruijn identity, considered for the first time in the information theory field. Two distinctive extensions of de Bruijn identity are presented as well. For arbitrary but fixed input and noise distributions, the first-order derivative of differential entropy is expressed by means of a function of the posterior mean, while the second-order derivative of differential entropy is manifested in terms of a function of Fisher information. Several applications exemplify the utility of the proposed results.
Inspiration from the natural world: from bio-adhesives to bio-inspired adhesives

Advances in materials science and engineering through bio-inspiration, at both the micro- and nanoscales, have flourished over recent years. By understanding principles used in nature to produce adhesives and other substances of interest, the field of bio-inspired engineering has emerged as an important area of innovation. In this review, we will focus on bio-adhesives based on three main mechanisms of generating attachment: dry, wet, and chemical adhesion. Dry adhesion, involving micro- to nanoscale filamentous structures, is used by many insects and reptiles to rapidly climb surfaces. Tree frogs and some insects make use of wet adhesion by leveraging capillary forces through the design of attaching structures that increases liquid drainage, and hence increases frictional contact. Finally, chemical adhesion is used by many plants and mollusks, which secrete adhesives composed of proteins, polysaccharides and carbohydrates to generate the strong forces necessary for adhesion. This paper reviews recent dis...
Student-Directed Learning: An Exercise in Student Engagement.

Student engagement and retention is a concern of many university professors. To engage sophomore-level students in a Sociology of Aging class, I challenged them to design the course in a way that would make the outcome personally meaningful to them. The class was asked to identify specific learning objectives related to the university's course catalog description, to choose assignments that would evaluate their learning, to weight assignments based upon their perception of importance, and to designate due dates for assignments. A qualitative review of their feedback on this exercise is provided.
Recent studies on the pathophysiology of ischemic cell injury.

We can summarize the results of our studies as follows (Fig. 15). The critical cellular factors involved in the loss of reversibility following ischemia appear to be the mechanisms involved in the membrane function of energy transduction. Irreversibility appears to correlate with an irrepairable defect in energy transduction. This could involve both the mitochondrial energy transduction functions and those in the plasma membrane. The mechanisms involved in this transition are not presently clear but they are associated with increased leakiness or permeability of these membranes accompanied by changes in lipid content, alterations in membrane proteins, and presumably in lipid-protein interactions. There are two prominent theories to explain energy transduction. These are the "proton pump" hypothesis of Mitchell (1972) and the "paired moving charge" hypothesis of Blondin and Green (1975). Both of these hypotheses require integrated function of membrane components, i.e., lipid and protein. The hypothesis of Blondin and Green, however, can work even with discontinuous membrane sheets because it involves the concept of ribbons of protein embedded in the protein-lipid membrane matrix. The characteristic finding of our studies following ischemic injury, namely, the continuous electron flow well into the irreversible phase while the energy transduction is impaired, could be explained by both hypotheses. What do these observations have to say about theories of energy conservation? We have observed that the vectorial nature of the proton separation is stopped. Charge separation may not occur at this time across the membrane since proton gradient and possible membrane potential are abolished. Electron transport, however, continues indicating the generation of protons. Since the decline of P/O ratio, decline of proton gradient and the cellular "point-of-no-return" coincide, these observations point toward the important membrane defects acquired at that particular time. The "paired moving charge" model which involves moving ions encapsulated in endogenous ionophores such as lecithin and maintenance of magnesium is favpred by the observation that phosphatidyl choline and phosphatidyl ethanolamine are lost in correlation with irreversibility. Furthermore, the decrease in magnesium content of cells is closely associated with the loss of viability following ischemia. The "paired moving charge" hypothesis has the attractive feature in that it involves antagonistic effects of calcium and magnesium. During reflow, calcium may inhibit magnesium mediated transport of inorganic phosphate by lecithin. Also, according to this theory fatty acids or their cyclic anions which act as uncouplers may foster the loss of phosphorylation capacity.
The machine — An aid to humanity

A history of the earliest discovery and development of machines is presented herewith as a simple and fundamental proof that machines are agents working for the benefit of humanity, and not, as so many are now maintaining, for man's harm.
Investigations on the oligosaccharide decomposition of Nadsonia slovaca kocková-kratochvilová et svobodová-polaková

In the investigated strain ofNadsonia slovaca a constitutive, intracellular, acetone-resistent maltose-splitting enzyme was demonstrated, observed previously by us in some other yeasts, too. The sucrose assimilation of the investigated strain is considered as an adaptive property, because no constitutive sucrose splitting enzyme could be demonstrated.
Frustrations in benchmarking IRBs: reflections after analyzing the United States' IRB registration database.

Like any organization committed to quality, institutional review boards (IRBs) desire to benchmark themselves with their colleagues. In order to do so, there is a need for high-quality, well-valida...