cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhanced extraction of copper from electronic waste via induced morphological changes using supercritical CO2

Abstract Electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the fastest growing waste segments in the world. This study investigates the use of supercritical CO2 (scCO2) and aqueous acid as co-solvent for the treatment of e-waste, specifically for the extraction of copper. Printed circuit board (PCB) was selected as the e-waste of study. In order to perform controlled experiments, melt-pressed Cu foil and polycarbonate sheets were prepared as surrogates for PCBs. It was found that a scCO2 and acid pre-treatment induced drastic morphological changes in the polymer, creating pores, cracks, and delamination. This finding was translated to the actual waste PCB system. This unique process involved the pre-treatment of the PCB with scCO2 and aqueous sulfuric acid at 120 °C and 148 atm for 30 min followed by leaching of the treated PCB in a solvent containing 2 M sulfuric acid and 0.2 M hydrogen peroxide at ambient conditions. Experimental results showed that 82% of the copper contained in the PCB was extracted in under 4 h. The characterization of the PCB demonstrated that the pre-treatment with scCO2 and acid induced the crystallization of the plastics (polymer component), creating pores and weakening the structure of the PCB, thereby enhancing the transport of the solvent to the buried metal interfaces. This novel process using scCO2 could reduce physical processing (e.g. grinding of the PCB) and acid usage during the extraction of Cu from e-waste, providing a greener alternative for current methods of recycling of metals, which are energy intensive with large environmental footprints.
CT in Hybrid SPECT/CT and PET/CT

CT has been an integral part of hybrid imaging PET/CT and SPECT/CT for almost two decades and has not received the attention it deserves when compared to PET or SPECT. As the sensitivity and reconstruction of a PET scanner were improved over the years, the amount of radiation from the injected 18F-FDG dose to the patient was decreased and the radiation dose of CT often times superseded the radiation from the injected 18F-FDG dose. Today, many clinics may have a larger portion of radiation dose from CT than from 18F-FDG in a PET/CT scan if they use the vendor’s default CT protocol. Understanding CT can help lower the radiation exposure of CT, and can help improve localization and quantitation of functional PET or SPECT imaging. This chapter covers the essential knowledge of CT to excel the applications of PET/CT and SPECT/CT.
Natural history of 10-meter walk/run test performance in Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A longitudinal analysis.

Abstract As trials and treatments for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) rapidly evolve, understanding the natural history and potential utility of the 10-meter walk/run test (10MWRT) in ambulant individuals is critical. Study aims were to: 1) establish change over time and across age for 10MWRT time in an untreated natural history cohort of young, ambulatory participants with SMA and 2) identify relations between 10MWRT time and age, SMA type, SMN2 copy number and anthropometrics. Untreated individuals (n=56) age 2 to 21 years who were enrolled in a long-term natural history study between 2005 and 2014 and met inclusion criteria were included. Linear mixed effects models were used to assess changes in 10MWRT time with age and associations with SMA type, SMN2 copy number, and body mass. SMA type 3b (versus 3a), SMN2 copy number 4 (versus 3) and lower body mass were associated with faster 10MWRT. 10MWRT performance improved between 3 and 8 years of age, was stable between 9 and 10, and gradually declined from 11 to 18. Findings provide the first longitudinal natural history report of 10MWRT time in young individuals with SMA and offer a critical foundation for interpreting childhood change in short distance walking speed with pharmacologic treatment.
In-Hospital Mortality for Inpatient Percutaneous Coronary Interventions in the United States.

Cardiovascular mortality is substantially higher in rural communities compared with urban communities. Understanding if disparities in inpatient percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) persist in the United States will help inform initiatives to improve cardiovascular health. Of the more than 7 million hospitalizations in the National Inpatient Sample (2016), we identified 80,793 unweighted hospitalizations for PCI using ICD-10 procedure codes. Using survey weights, these hospitalizations projected 371,040 US admissions for inpatient PCI. For the primary analysis, we determined the association between hospital urban-rural designation and in-hospital mortality after inpatient PCI. In the secondary analysis, we evaluated the association between teaching status and this outcome. Multivariable logistic regression models, adjusted for multiple risk factors and patient characteristics, were used. Of the 371,430 hospitalizations for inpatient PCI, there were 108.9 (±2.2) admissions per 100,000 US population from urban hospitals and 152.9 (±6.3) from rural hospitals. Of the urban hospitals, there were 77.7 (±1.9) admissions per 100,000 US population at teaching hospitals (71.7%) and 30.7 (±1.0) at urban nonteaching hospitals (28.3%). In-hospital mortality did not differ between urban and rural hospitals (1.8% urban vs 1.9% rural, adjusted odds ratio for rural compared with urban: 1.15 [95% confidence interval 0.98, 1.34], p = 0.08). In urban hospitals, however, in-hospital mortality was higher in nonteaching hospitals than in teaching hospitals (2.0% nonteaching vs 1.7% teaching, adjusted odds ratio for teaching compared with nonteaching: 1.17 [95% confidence interval 1.01, 1.36], p = 0.04). In conclusion, in-hospital mortality rates after inpatient PCI were similar between urban and rural hospitals in the United States. However, among urban hospitals, nonteaching hospitals had higher rates of in-hospital mortality after PCI. In conclusion, solutions to address disparities for inpatient PCI outcomes between teaching and nonteaching hospitals are needed.
How Do Lay Health Workers Engage Caregivers? A Qualitative Study to Enhance Equity in Evidence-Based Parenting Programs

Engaging caregivers in their children’s mental health treatment is critical for delivering high quality, evidence-based care, particularly for young children with externalizing behaviors. Lay healt...
Food, Fermentation and Micro-organisms

Preface. Acknowledgements. Introduction. Chapter 1. The Science Underpinning Food Fermentations. Chapter 2. Beer. Chapter 3. Wine. Chapter 4. Fortified Wines. Chapter 5. Cider. Chapter 6. Distilled Alcoholic Beverages. Chapter 7. Flavoured Spirits. Chapter 8. Sake. Chapter 9. Vinegar. Chapter 10. Cheese. Chapter 11. Yoghurt and Other Fermented Milk Products. Chapter 12. Bread. Chapter 13. Meat. Chapter 14. Indigenous Fermented Foods. Chapter 15. Vegetable Fermentations. Chapter 16. Cocoa. Chapter 17. Mycoprotein. Chapter 18. Miscellaneous Fermentation Products. Index.
Continuations in Natural Language

This chapter describes techniques of linguistic analysis in LA-grammar. The systems discussed are ECAT, an LA-grammar of English, and DCAT, an LA-grammar of German.1 Section 4.1 explains the overall structure of ECAT. Section 4.2 discusses the handling of modifier agreement in English and German. Section 4.3 deals with the phenomenon of valency in English. Section 4.4 explains the handling of word order on the basis of the categorization and the control structure. Section 4.5 discusses the syntactic and semantic nature of pronouns.
Law's Failures: Means and Ends

This paper treats the general sense of failure that pervades the field of Conflicts of Laws as an opportunity to consider how failure generally might be understood in the law. Through an analysis of the field's history as compared to the history of property law, the paper argues that Conflicts' failure stems not from its inability to identify with either a normative or an instrumental theory of law, but from a failure of aesthetic technique. This analysis stands against both a normative understanding of law that sees Conflicts as having failed because it lends no substantive support to any claims of political or social effect on the one hand and an instrumentalist view of law that finds Conflicts doctrines unworkable, and unable to produce predictable or desirable effects. The wider goal of the paper is to draw serious theoretical attention to the technical character of legal knowledge. The "failure" of Conflicts as a field, however, also invites attention to the conditions under which this technical aesthetic ceases to captivate the imaginations and commitments of legal theorists, teachers and practitioners.
High-Q on-chip microwave resonator for sensitive permittivity detection in nanoliter volumes

This work presents the design, fabrication and characterization results for a thick film (6µm Cu), coplanar waveguide (CPW) resonator operating at 2.2GHz with a high quality factor Q (∼177), integrated with a microfluidic channel. We demonstrate detection of changes in permittivity of 0.8% with a sample volume of 30nL, and estimate a lower detection limit of 0.05% (500ppm) with this device.
Optimal resource allocation in Cognitive Smart Grid Networks

Taking advantage of information and communication technologies, the power industry is moving towards the next generation power grid, the smart grid. This information-based power grid is expected to change the way electricity is generated, distributed, and transmitted to the consumers by enhancing the reliability, efficiency, sustainability, and economics of the grid. However, due to the high volume and high granularity of the data generated by smart electricity meters, careful planning and management of this communication network is necessary. Given the large scale future deployment of smart grid, utility companies face possible network capacity constraints. Due to this scarcity, an efficient spectrum allocation is often difficult, thus resulting in low overall bandwidth utilization in Smart Grid Networks (SGN). Hence, an efficient utilization of this communication network should be studied. Cognitive Radio Networks (CRN) enable Secondary Users (SU) to coexist with existing network infrastructures. Cognitive Smart Grid Networks (CSGN) use CRN to optimize resource allocation in SGNs. However, efficient utilization of available channel bandwidth by SUs, without interfering with the Primary Users (PU), remains an important open problem in CSGN. In this paper, we focus on CSGN as the Secondary Network (SN), coexisting with a Primary Network, and outlining the applicability of Code Division Multiple Access for overcoming the low Number of SUs (NSU) in SN. We propose a novel resource allocation technique to improve NSU in CSGN by using a specific kind of Orthogonal Chip Sequence (OCS) allocation in spread spectrum communications for SU transmissions. By means of extensive simulations and analysis, we show that our technique improves NSU on SN (or CSGNs) significantly.
Explaining Ossification: An Examination of the Time to Finish Rulemakings

For decades, supporters of regulation have bemoaned the length of time it takes a federal agency to promulgate a final rule. This article uses a dataset of 435 regulations to examine first, how long the regulatory process actually takes, and second, what factors determine the length of time that it takes an agency to finish a regulation. I find that the number of comments that an agency receives on a proposed rule and whether the regulation is of general or particular applicability affect the length of time it takes to finalize a proposed rule (rules of general applicability take longer). Few of the regulatory procedures blamed for lengthening the regulatory process appear to have much of an actual effect on delaying regulations.
Regulation of TrkA and ChAT expression in developing rat basal forebrain: evidence that both exogenous and endogenous NGF regulate differentiation of cholinergic neurons

TrkA is a receptor tyrosine kinase whose activation transduces NGF signaling. TrkA expression has been demonstrated in NGF-responsive adult basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs). Several lines of evidence have suggested that endogenous NGF plays a role in the development and differentiation of these neurons. We examined TrkA expression during development. TrkA mRNA and protein were present in basal forebrain neurons during the entire postnatal period; the distribution of neurons bearing these markers was identical to that for those containing choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) mRNA, suggesting that, as in the adult, TrkA gene expression is localized to BFCNs. The expression of TrkA and ChAT followed a very similar temporal pattern, suggesting regulation by the same factor(s). We discovered that NGF administration in vivo activated TrkA receptors, and increased both TrkA and ChAT mRNA; conversely, anti-NGF infusions suppressed expression of both genes. These results suggest that endogenous NGF regulates expression of TrkA and ChAT. Finally, while NGF infusion increased the size of developing BFCNs, NGF antibodies inhibited the normal developmental increase. The results are evidence that endogenous NGF acts on developing BFCNs to enhance gene expression and cellular differentiation.
Free radicals mediate endothelial cell dysfunction caused by elevated glucose

Impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation occurs in diabetic rabbit aorta and normal aorta exposed to elevated concentrations of glucose and is prevented by cyclooxygenase inhibitors. The role of free radicals in the endothelial cell impairment was examined with free radical scavengers and in aortas from rabbits fed with probucol (1% wt/wt, a lipid-soluble antioxidant). Rings of aorta suspended for measurement of isometric tension were incubated for 6 h in control (5.5 mM) or elevated (44 mM) glucose. Impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine caused by exposure to elevated glucose was prevented by superoxide dismutase, catalase, deferoxamine, or allopurinol and did not occur in aortas from probucol-fed rabbits. Similarly, impairment of acetylcholine relaxations in aortas from alloxan-induced diabetic rabbits was restored to normal by superoxide dismutase. Oxygen-derived free radicals generated by xanthine oxidase also caused impaired acetylcholine relaxations. Exposure of aortic segments to elevated glucose or to xanthine oxidase caused a significant increase in release of immunoreactive prostanoids. These data indicate that the endothelial cell dysfunction caused by elevated glucose is mediated by free radicals that are likely generated through the increased cyclooxygenase catalysis occurring in the endothelium. Treatment with antioxidants protects against impaired endothelium-dependent relaxations caused by elevated glucose.
ΔNp63α and TAp63α regulate transcription of genes with distinct biological functions in cancer and development

The p63 gene shows remarkable structural similarity to the p53 and p73 genes. Because of two promoters, the p63 gene generates two types of protein isoforms, TAp63 and ΔNp63. Each type yields three isotypes (α, β, γ) because of differential splicing of the p63 COOH terminus. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a functional link between the distinct p63 isotypes in their transcriptional regulation of downstream targets and their role in various cellular functions. TAp63α and ΔNp63α adenovirus expression vectors were introduced into Saos2 cells for 4 and 24 h, and then gene profiling was performed using a DNA microarray chip analysis. Seventy-four genes (>2-fold change in expression) were identified that overlapped between two independent studies. Thirty-five genes were selected for direct expression testing of which 27 were confirmed by reverse transcription-PCR or Northern blot analysis. A survey of these genes shows that p63 can regulate a wide range of downstream gene targets with various cellular functions, including cell cycle control, stress, and signal transduction. Our study thus revealed p63 transcriptional regulation of many genes in cancer and development while often demonstrating opposing regulatory functions for TAp63α and ΔNp63α.
A first order matched transition jump at RHIC

RHIC, the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider at Brookhaven National Laboratory, will be the first superconducting accelerator to cross transition, when ramping begins in 1998. All ion species except for protons will cross transition. Simulations show gold ion losses of 70%, and longitudinal emittance growth of 60%, if nothing is done to ameliorate the crossing. RHIC will also be the first accelerator to use a matched first order transition jump to modify /spl gammasub T/ for a short time, by pulsing a set of quadrupoles, so as to cross transition rapidly, with little beam disturbance. "First order" means that the change in /spl gammasub T/ is proportional to the pulse current. "Matched" means that the quadrupole arrangement minimizes optical distortions. Crucially, the maximum dispersion is only 2.30 meters, compared to the unperturbed value of 1.84 meters. This paper describes the transition jump design, and reports on its performance in the lattice RHIC92.3. >
A comparison of error‐correction procedures on skill acquisition during discrete‐trial instruction

Previous research supports the use of a variety of error-correction procedures to facilitate skill acquisition during discrete-trial instruction. We used an adapted alternating treatments design to compare the effects of 4 commonly used error-correction procedures on skill acquisition for 2 children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and 3 children with autism spectrum disorder. For all participants, multiple error-correction procedures were effective; however, 1 or 2 specific error-correction procedures led to more efficient skill acquisition for each individual. These results highlight the importance of evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of error-correction procedures for individual learners during discrete-trial instruction. We discuss the use of discrete-trial instruction with different populations, implications for using multiple measures of procedural efficiency, and several areas for future research.
Laser properties of some phthalocyanines

Abstract The lasing behavior of solutions of the phthalocyanines of aluminum, gallium, magnesium, and zinc was studied with nitrogen laser optical pumping. Aluminum phthalocyanine chloride showed simultaneous lasing at two wavelengths separated by approximately 70 nm. Gallium, magnesium, and zinc phthalocyanine each lased at only one wavelength. This behavior is explained in terms of some of the intrinsic physical properties of these phthalocyanines.
Stark braodening in hot, dense, laser-produced plasmas: A review☆

Abstract This paper will briefly analyze a general expression for a line profile previously derived elsewhere and then discuss approximations that are frequently made for calculations appropriate for plasma conditions created in pellet implosion experiments. Two aspects of our calculations will be stressed: (a) electric microfield distribution functions, (b) full-Coulomb electron-radiator interactions. Comparisons of theory and experiment will be left for another talk at this meeting.
Effects of alprazolam on intravenous cocaine self-administration in rats

The specificity of benzodiazepine pretreatment on the reinforcing efficacy of cocaine was investigated using a multiple schedule of cocaine and food presentation. Cocaine was available under a fixed-ratio 4 schedule of reinforcement during 1 h of the session, while food was delivered under a discrete-trial, fixed-ratio 10 schedule during the other. Following initial exposure to alprazolam, responding maintained by both cocaine and food was significantly reduced. However, tolerance quickly developed to the sedative effects of alprazolam on food-maintained responding, while no reduction in the effects of the drug on cocaine self-administration was observed. Alprazolam (0.5 to 4.0 mg/kg, IP) significantly reduced cocaine intake without affecting food-maintained responding following subsequent testing with the drug. These data suggest a potential specific effect (e.g., anxiolytic) of alprazolam in cocaine reinforcement.
An analysis of shareholder rights plans

Previous studies of shareholder rights plans (poison pills) have emphasized short-term valuation effects in the context of specific takeover attempts. This paper analyzes rights largely adopted in ‘neutral’ environments. Using a paired-case control approach, differences between rights and non-rights firms are examined. Positive long-term valuation effects are associated with restructurings, while negative performance is associated with ownership/control influences. The evidence supports a multiple signalling model in which investors use subsequent information to revise probabilities concerning control preferences of management and directors.
Religious Symbolism in Limbu Death-By-Violence:

This article analyzes a special death ritual performed for people who die by violence or accident in eastern Nepal among a Tibeto-Burman speaking tribal group, the Limbu. Such unusual deaths are co...
INCREASED PLACENTAL IRON-RESPONSIVE PROTEIN-1 (IRP-1) AND TRANSFERRIN RECEPTOR (TfR) mRNA IN DIABETIC PREGNANCIES COMPLICATED BY FETAL IRON DEFICIENCY † 248

INCREASED PLACENTAL IRON-RESPONSIVE PROTEIN-1 (IRP-1) AND TRANSFERRIN RECEPTOR (TfR) mRNA IN DIABETIC PREGNANCIES COMPLICATED BY FETAL IRON DEFICIENCY † 248
Non-ideal projectile impact on targets

Abstract This survey summarizes analytical, numerical and experimental investigations of targets subjected to non-standard collisions, penetration and perforation of strikers, defined as all cases other than normal impingement of a purely translating impactor on a stationary target at normal incidence. The vast majority of ballistic studies are concerned with the standard configuration and conditions indicated, but virtually all field situations deviate from this scenario. The topics treated here include: oblique impact, yaw impact, impact with yaw and obliquity, impact on moving targets, rotating penetrators, impact of tumbling projectiles, impingement of jets or long rods with relative target motion, and ricochet. Other types of nonideal projectile impact exist, but have not been sufficiently explored to be documented here. The sections are divided by striker type (where applicable) as spheres, projectiles and long rods; by velocity range, and by the type of investigation performed. Sufficient technical information is presented to provide a reasonable assessment of the character, approach and results obtained for the various studies. If more detailed information concerning analytical or experimental procedures are required, the reader should consult the original references which are fully listed.
Fatty Acid Esterification with N,N-Dimethylformamide Dialkyl Acetals for GC Analysis

Abstract The methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, n-butyl or t-butyl esters of long chain fatty acids can be prepared quantitatively by reaction with dimethylforma-mide dialkylacetals (alkyl group = methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, n-butyl or t-butyl, respectively). A gas chromatographic separation can be carried out as soon as solution is achieved.
Obstructive sleep apnea and obesity are associated with reduced GPR120 plasma levels in children

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common health problem, particularly in obese children, in whom a vicious cycle of obesity and OSA interdependencies promote increased food intake. GPR120 is a long-chain free fatty acid (FFA) receptor that plays an important role in energy homeostasis, and protects from insulin resistance and systemic inflammation. Thus, we hypothesized that GPR120 levels would be reduced in children with OSA, particularly among obese children. Materials and methods 226 children (mean age: 7.0 ± 2.1years) underwent overnight polysomnographic evaluation and a fasting blood draw the morning after the sleep study. In addition to lipid profile, HOMA-IR and hsCRP assays, monocyte GPR120 expression and plasma GPR120 levels were assessed using qPCR and ELISA kits. Results Obese children and OSA children had significantly lower GPR120 monocyte expression and plasma GPR120 levels. Furthermore, when both obesity and OSA were concurrently present, GRP120 levels were lowest. Linear associations emerged between GRP120 plasma levels and BMI z score, as well as with AHI, SpO2 nadir, and respiratory arousal index, the latter remaining statistically significant when controlling for age, ethnicity, gender, and BMI z score ( p 0.001). Similarly, HOMA-IR was significantly associated with GRP120 levels, but neither LDL nor HDL cholesterol or hsCRP levels exhibited significant correlations. Conclusion GPR120 levels are reduced in pediatric OSA and obesity, particularly when both are present, and may play a role in modulating the degree of insulin resistance. The short-term and long-term significance of reduced GPR120 in food intake and glycemic deregulation remains undefined. Acknowledgements Supported by National Institutes of Health grants HL-65270, HL-086662, and HL- 107160.
An Air-Brayton Nuclear-Hydrogen Combined-Cycle Peak- and Base-Load Electric Plant

A combined-cycle power plant is proposed that uses heat from a high-temperature nuclear reactor and hydrogen produced by the high-temperature reactor to meet base-load and peak-load electrical demands. For base-load electricity production, air is compressed; flows through a heat exchanger, where it is heated to between 700 and 900°C; and exits through a high-temperature gas turbine to produce electricity. The heat, via an intermediate heat-transport loop, is provided by a high-temperature reactor. The hot exhaust from the Brayton-cycle turbine is then fed to a heat recovery steam generator that provides steam to a steam turbine for added electrical power production. To meet peak electricity demand, after nuclear heating of the compressed air, hydrogen is injected into the combustion chamber, combusts, and heats the air to 1300°C—the operating conditions for a standard natural-gas-fired combined-cycle plant. This process increases the plant efficiency and power output. Hydrogen is produced at night by electrolysis or other methods using energy from the nuclear reactor and is stored until needed. Therefore, the electricity output to the electric grid can vary from zero (i.e., when hydrogen is being produced) to the maximum peak power while the nuclear reactor operates at constant load. Because nuclear heat raises air temperatures above the auto-ignition temperatures of the hydrogen and powers the air compressor, the power output can be varied rapidly (compared with the capabilities of fossil-fired turbines) to meet spinning reserve requirements and stabilize the grid.© 2007 ASME
Genomic Architecture may Influence Recurrent Chromosomal Translocation Frequency in the Igh Locus.

B cell lymphomas represent 95% of all lymphomas diagnosed in the Western world and the majority of these arise from germinal center (GC) B cells (1). Recurrent chromosomal translocations involving Ig loci and proto-oncogenes are a hallmark of many types of B cell lymphoma (2). Three types of breakpoints can be identified in Ig loci. Translocation breakpoints adjacent to the DH or JH gene segments form secondary to V(D)J recombination, a process that occurs in early B cell development. Other translocations are located in rearranged V(D)J exons that have acquired mutations indicating that translocation is a byproduct of somatic hypermutation (SHM) which occurs in GC B cells. A third type of translocation is characterized by breakpoints in the Igh switch regions, a target for double strand DNA breaks (DSBs) during class switch recombination (CSR) that occurs in mature B cells, both inside and outside the GC. Thus, in B lymphocytes, V(D)J joining, CSR, and SHM create obligate single- or double-strand DNA breaks as intermediates for chromosomal translocations (3, 4). Activation-induced deaminase (AID) is the enzyme that initiates CSR and SHM (5) by inducing the formation of DSBs in switch (S) regions and mutations in V gene exons (6–10). Studies indicate that non-Ig genes are mistargeted by AID (11, 12) and thereby acquire single and double strand DNA breaks at sites coincident with translocation breakpoints (1, 2). Mature B cells are particularly prone to chromosomal translocations that juxtapose Ig genes and proto-oncogenes, including c-myc [Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL)], Bcl-2 (follicular lymphoma), Bcl-6 (diffuse large cell lymphoma), and FGFR (multiple myeloma) and which are characteristic of human B cell malignancies (2). The mouse plasmacytoma (PCT) T(12;15)(Igh-myc) translocation, a direct counterpart of the human BL t(8;14)(q24;q32) translocation, occurs as a dynamic process in mature B cells undergoing CSR and is dependent on the expression of AID (13, 14). Hence, a direct mechanistic link between AID and chromosomal translocations focused to Ig genes has been established. One of the most puzzling aspects of recurrent chromosomal translocations is that DSBs on two different chromosomes must come into close proximity frequently enough to facilitate the crossover. How do the broken ends located at distal sites in cis or on trans chromosomes come together? Consideration of oncogenic selection, sources of translocation prone DSBs associated with antigen receptor rearrangements in B and T lymphocytes, and the role of DSB persistence in translocations have been recently reviewed [(15, 16) and references therein]. Here we consider the proposition that the spatial organization of mammalian genomes is intrinsically linked to genome stability and modulates the frequency of chromosomal translocations.
Combining Bayesian Networks and Total Cost of Ownership method for supplier selection analysis

In this study, we analyze the supplier selection process by combining Bayesian Networks (BN) and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) methods. The proposed approach aims to efficiently incorporate and exploit the buyer's domain-specific information when the buyer has both limited and uncertain information regarding the supplier. This study examines uncertainty from a total cost perspective, with regards to causes of supplier performance and capability on buyer's organization. The proposed approach is assessed and tested in automotive industry for tier-1 supplier for selecting its own suppliers. To efficiently facilitate expert opinions, we form factors to represent and explain various supplier selection criteria and to reduce complexity. The case study in automotive industry shows several advantages of the proposed method. A BN approach facilitates a more insightful evaluation and selection of alternatives given its semantics for decision making. The buyer can also make an accurate cost estimation that are specifically linked with suppliers' performance. Both buyer and supplier have clear vision to reduce costs and to improve the relations.
Beyond social reproduction Bringing resistance back in gang theory

Researchers and theorists have described violent street gang subcultures in the USA as a response to the intersecting forces of marginalization inflicted on minority communities. Most gang scholars...
A Creep/Relaxation Model Which Exhibits Chaotic Instability—Comparison With Solder Data

A mathematical model of creep/relaxation was developed which allows non steady-state behavior, incorporates a modification of the customary steady-state stress versus creep rate power law in order to account for higher rate instability (super-plasticity effect), and uses a discrete time step which is assumed to depend crucially on the grainy structure of solder. In simplest form, the model is transformed into a classic discrete logistic model of population dynamics whose chaotic instability has been extensively studied. A “chaos parameter” is identified which is shown to depend upon time step (grain size) and relaxation of load (dwell). Dynamic behavior of Sn63-Pb37 solder was studied in both bulk and joint forms at various initial loads and constant temperatures. The prediction of instability after dwell was confirmed in both forms. Since both depend upon grain size, dwell time, and relate to instability, a close relationship between the chaos parameter and solder fatigue is suggested.
Fundamental limitation to the magnitude of piezoelectric response of ⟨001⟩pc textured K0.5Na0.5NbO3 ceramic

⟨001⟩pc textured K0.5Na0.5NbO3 (KNN) ceramic was found to exhibit a 65% improvement in the longitudinal piezoelectric response as compared to its random counterpart. Piezoresponse force microscopy study revealed the existence of larger 180° and non-180° domains for textured ceramic as compared to the random ceramic. Improvement in piezoresponse by the development of ⟨001⟩pc texture is discussed in terms of the crystallographic nature of KNN and domain morphology. A comparative analysis performed with a rhombohedral composition suggested that the improvement in longitudinal piezoresponse of polycrystalline ceramics by the development of ⟨001⟩pc texture is determined by the crystal structure.
Effects of winter temperatures on the sex ratios of Aphytis melinus [Hym.: Aphelinidae] in the San Joaquin Valley of California

Laboratory bioassays of overwintering field populations of the California red scale parasitoidAphytis melinus DeBach showed a shift in sex ratio of F1 progeny after prolonged exposure to winter temperatures in Tulare County, California. In 7 of 8 tests, short-term winter field exposure (<75 days) did not result in a significant male bias in sex ratios of F1 progeny when compared to sex ratios observed in laboratory cultures maintained at 27°C. Long term exposure (109–139 days), however, resulted in significantly (P<0.05) higher male bias in F1 sex ratios in 5 of 6 tests. These results from field populations ofA. melinus agree with conclusions of low temperature laboratory tests onAphytis species (lingnanensis, melinus) by other workers.
Prognostic indicators for invasive carcinoma of the vulva

Three hundred sixty-five patients with invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva have been treated at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center between 1944 and 1990. We undertook a rigorous review of the medical records, and a Cox proportional hazards model was applied to examine predictors of both failure to survive and recurrence. Significant predictors of both failure to survive and recurrence included tumor size, clinical stage, therapy aim, pelvic or inguinal nodal metastases, and positive margins. We then undertook an analysis of Stage I and II lesions treated with a curative aim to see if there was a difference in survival or in disease-free interval between those patients treated with radical vulvectomy and those treated with radical wide local excision. There was no survival advantage from the radical vulvectomy procedure. We conclude that careful selection may allow us to choose some patients for less radical procedures.
Metastases to palm, sole, nailbed, nose, face and scalp from unsuspected carcinoma of the lung.

A case is recorded in which bizarre metastases to the palm, sole, nailbed, nose, cheek and scalp were the first presenting signs of an unsuspected pulmonary carcinoma. Their unique appearance suggests that a precise phenomenon may be at work, the pathogenesis of which is still unknown. It has not been determined whether they are characteristic of a particular type of primary neoplasm. In the presence of unexplained skin malignancies, the possibility that they may be metastatic should be considered and a search for internal malignancy should be instituted.
Little Jiffy Factor Scores and Domain Validities

For the factor analytic method, Little Jiffy, Mark IV, which was developed by Kaiser and Rice and reported in 1974 in EDUCATIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL MEASUREMENT, a formula is derived for ascertaining factor scores. This formula is then employed to derive a second one giving an exact determination of the generalized Kuder-Richardson estimate of the reliability (or its square root, the domain validity) of scores on a Little Jiffy factor.
How close are we to having a global “Get it for me” service?

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify the key features in the process of an end‐user identifying, requesting and obtaining a document they require. In addition it seeks to describe the issues that need to be addressed for this process to become successful and operational.Design/methodology/approach – The approach takes a descriptive form.Findings – The paper finds that most technical issues have been resolved. The information community as a whole must address how the remaining obstacles can be overcome.Originality/value – This is a readable paper by an experienced practitioner on the long‐standing vision of a seamless service for end‐users.
Specific Mutations Induced by Triplex-Forming Oligonucleotides in Mice

Triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) recognize and bind to specific duplex DNA sequences and have been used extensively to modify gene function in cells. Although germ line mutations can be incorporated by means of embryonic stem cell technology, little progress has been made toward introducing mutations in somatic cells of living organisms. Here we demonstrate that TFOs can induce mutations at specific genomic sites in somatic cells of adult mice. Mutation detection was facilitated by the use of transgenic mice bearing chromosomal copies of the supF and cII reporter genes. Mice treated with a supF-targeted TFO displayed about fivefold greater mutation frequencies in the supF gene compared with mice treated with a scrambled sequence control oligomer. No mutagenesis was detected in the control gene (cII) with either oligonucleotide. These results demonstrate that site-specific, TFO-directed genome modification can be accomplished in intact animals.
Snapshot of iron response in Shewanella oneidensis by gene network reconstruction

Iron homeostasis of Shewanella oneidensis, a γ-proteobacterium possessing high iron content, is regulated by a global transcription factor Fur. However, knowledge is incomplete about other biological pathways that respond to changes in iron concentration, as well as details of the responses. In this work, we integrate physiological, transcriptomics and genetic approaches to delineate the iron response of S. oneidensis. We show that the iron response in S. oneidensis is a rapid process. Temporal gene expression profiles were examined for iron depletion and repletion, and a gene co-expression network was reconstructed. Modules of iron acquisition systems, anaerobic energy metabolism and protein degradation were the most noteworthy in the gene network. Bioinformatics analyses suggested that genes in each of the modules might be regulated by DNA-binding proteins Fur, CRP and RpoH, respectively. Closer inspection of these modules revealed a transcriptional regulator (SO2426) involved in iron acquisition and ten transcriptional factors involved in anaerobic energy metabolism. Selected genes in the network were analyzed by genetic studies. Disruption of genes encoding a putative alcaligin biosynthesis protein (SO3032) and a gene previously implicated in protein degradation (SO2017) led to severe growth deficiency under iron depletion conditions. Disruption of a novel transcriptional factor (SO1415) caused deficiency in both anaerobic iron reduction and growth with thiosulfate or TMAO as an electronic acceptor, suggesting that SO1415 is required for specific branches of anaerobic energy metabolism pathways. Using a reconstructed gene network, we identified major biological pathways that were differentially expressed during iron depletion and repletion. Genetic studies not only demonstrated the importance of iron acquisition and protein degradation for iron depletion, but also characterized a novel transcriptional factor (SO1415) with a role in anaerobic energy metabolism.
On the Different Ways of “Doing Theory” in Biology

“Theoretical biology” is a surprisingly heterogeneous field, partly because it encompasses “doing theory” across disciplines as diverse as molecular biology, systematics, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Moreover, it is done in a stunning variety of different ways, using anything from formal analytical models to computer simulations, from graphic representations to verbal arguments. In this essay I survey a number of aspects of what it means to do theoretical biology, and how they compare with the allegedly much more restricted sense of theory in the physical sciences. I also tackle a recent trend toward the presentation of all-encompassing theories in the biological sciences, from general theories of ecology to a recent attempt to provide a conceptual framework for the entire set of biological disciplines. Finally, I discuss the roles played by philosophers of science in criticizing and shaping biological theorizing.
The use of principal component analysis for the structural interpretation of mid-infrared spectra

Abstract Perkins, J.H., Hasenoehrl, E.J. and Griffiths, P.R., 1992. The use of principal component analysis for the structural interpretation of mid-infrared spectra. Chemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems , 15: 75–86. Principal component analysis (PCA) is shown to be a useful method to characterize spectra for interpretation in an expert system. A protocol is described for the generation of a numerical rule that converts a mid-infrared spectrum to a classification score that indicates whether the compound in question belongs to one structural class or another. The protocol consists of six steps: (1) selection of a training set of compounds that serves as an example and counter-example of the structure under investigation; (2) autoscaling the training set spectra; (3) feature weighting the training set spectra to emphasize those measurements (wavenumbers) that best separate the classes; (4) performing the PCA on the data set; (5) projecting a second larger training set onto the first few principal components; and (6) determining an optimal separation surface and logistic sigmoid function. The sigmoid function returns a classification score between 0 and 1 indicating the presence of the structure. The closer the score is to 1, the greater the certainty that the functional group or substructure is present. The protocol is illustrated for the generation of a rule for determining the presence of the nitro functionality. The derived rule has a no-choice rate (probability that a spectrum will not be classified) of 4% and an overall correct rate of 97% as determined from a validation set of 1000 spectra.
Single-port laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Objectives To present the initial experience in laparoscopic radical prostatectomy performed exclusively through an umbilical incision using a single three-channel port and specially designed flexible laparoscopic instrumentation. Methods Since November 26, 2007, we have performed single-port laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in 4 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. Patients with early-stage prostate cancer (T1c), no previous pelvic surgery, and a body mass index ≤35 kg/m2 were selected for single-port laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. A multichannel port was inserted transperitoneally through a 1.8-cm umbilical incision. No additional extraumbilical instruments or ports were inserted. Urethrovesical anastomosis was performed using free-hand interrupted suturing and extracorporeal knot tying. Data were collected prospectively into our institutional review board-approved data registry. Results All cases were completed successfully, without conversion to a standard laparoscopic approach. The total operative time was 285 ± 30 minutes, with a mean operative time for prostate excision and urethrovesical anastomosis of 3.25 hours and 1.1 hours, respectively. The mean blood loss was 288 ± 131 mL, and no patient required a blood transfusion. The hospital stay was 2.5 ± 0.6 days. The Foley catheter was removed 2 weeks (range 1-3) after surgery. No intraoperative complications occurred; however, 1 patient developed a rectourethral fistula that was noted 2 months after surgery. At 18 weeks of follow-up, 3 patients used 1 or 0 pads for continence daily, 2 patients had positive margins noted at the site of extracapsular extension, and all patients had an undetectable prostate-specific antigen level. Conclusions Single-port laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is feasible. Additional investigation is needed to evaluate the safety and oncologic adequacy of this new approach.
Demonstration of the Agent of Legionnaires' Disease in Tissue

AN epidemic of acute febrile respiratory disease occurred among persons who had been in Philadelphia during July and August, 1976. Patients were divided into two groups: those who attended the Penn...
Fermat versus Wilson congruences, arithmetic derivatives and zeta values☆

Abstract We look at two analogs each for the well-known congruences of Fermat and Wilson in the case of polynomials over finite fields. When we look at them modulo higher powers of primes, we find interesting relations linking them together, as well as linking them with derivatives and zeta values. The link with the zeta value carries over to the number field case, with the zeta value at 1 being replaced by Euler's constant.
Bonding-property relationships in intermetallic alloys

A definition for structure of atomic scale systems is introduced which extends the typical crystallographic description to include elements of the total charge density. We argue that the mechanical properties of intermetallic alloys are related to this extended structure. These relationships have their origin in the nature of the charge redistribution accompanying strain. The direction of this charge redistribution is determined solely by the extended structure, while its magnitude can be correlated with a quantification of this extended structure. We demonstrate these facts by determining the extended structure and nature of the charge redistribution resulting from uniaxial strain for two alloys with the L10 structure: CuAu and TiAl. While these alloys share the same crystallographic structure, their extended structures are different, with CuAu possessing the same extended structure as the allotropic fcc metals while TiAl does not. These different extended structures give rise to different charge redistributions, which are argued to be related to the intrinsically ductile behavior of CuAu and the tendency for TiAl to fail transgranularly.
Synthesis, structures, and conductivities of the new layered compounds Ta3Pd3Te14 and TaNiTe5

Abstract The new layered ternary chalcogenides Ta3Pd3Te14 and TaNiTe5 have been prepared by high-temperature reactions of the elements. They have been characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction methods. The compound Ta3Pd3Te14 crystallizes with two formula units in the monoclinic space groupC22h-P21m in a cell with dimensionsa = 14.088(19), b = 3.737(3), c = 20.560(19)A, and β = 103.73(5)°. TaNiTe5 crystallizes with four formula units in the orthorhombic space groupD172h-Cmcm in a cell with dimensionsa = 3.659(2), b = 13.122(10), c = 15.111(11)A. Both are layer structures. TaNiTe5 is isostructural with the previously synthesized compound NbNiTe5. The layers for TaNiTe5 contain Ta atoms in a bicapped trigonal prismatic Te environment and Ni atoms in an octahedral environment. The layers for Ta3Pd3Te14 are made up of octahedral and bicapped trigonal prismatic Ta atoms and octahedral Pd atoms coordinated by Te. Electrical conductivity measurements indicate that both of these compounds are metallic; for Ta3Pd3Te14,σ297 ≈ 2.2 × 103 Ω−1cm−1 and for TaNiTe5,σ297 ≈ 2.6 × 104 Ω−1cm−1. Magnetic susceptibility measurements show that TaNiTe5 is paramagnetic.