cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Expanding the horizons of genome editing in the fruit fly with Cas12a.

For well over a century, geneticists have relentlessly bombarded the genome of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster with increasingly sophisticated mutagenic agents (1). Collectively, these loss-of-function studies have been astoundingly informative, providing fundamental breakthroughs in nearly all fields of biology (2, 3). Initially, such studies relied on mutagens that attack the genome in quasirandom locations, such as X-rays, mutagenic chemicals, and transposable elements. The application of RNA interference (RNAi) to Drosophila genetics made it possible to intentionally target the transcript of any specific gene of interest and, with the Gal4-UAS system, to do so with precise spatial and temporal control (4, 5). The field was revolutionized again 7 y ago, when CRISPR-Cas9–based genome editing was demonstrated in Drosophila , making it possible to mutate and rewrite the genome of the fruit fly with ease, specificity, and scalability that were previously unimaginable (6). Yet for all of the profound properties of Cas9, the powerhouse RNA-guided DNase at the center of this technical revolution, there are downsides to relying solely on this particular nuclease for genome editing. Indeed, a growing number of alternative CRISPR approaches have been described in recent years, based on both naturally occurring and laboratory-evolved CRISPR-family proteins. To date, however, none of these alternatives have been effectively adapted for in vivo studies in Drosophila . In PNAS, Port et al. (7) provide such a demonstration, focusing on the Cas12a enzyme (formerly known as Cpf1). Cas12a displays a number of intriguing properties that make it a broadly useful complement to Cas9 (Fig. 1) and a valuable tool to continue the collective interrogation on the Drosophila genome. Fig. 1. In vivo genome editing with the Cas12a system offers several technical complements relative to standard Cas9-based editing in Drosophila . “NGG” and “TTTV” are the protospacer-adjacent motif (PAM) sequences required for cleavage … [↵][1]1To whom correspondence may be addressed. Email: perrimon{at}genetics.med.harvard.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Design Challenges for Science Games: The Case of a Quantum Mechanics Game.

The abstract nature of quantum mechanics makes it difficult to visualize. This is one of the reasons it is taught in the language of mathematics. Without an opportunity to directly observe or interact with quantum phenomena, students struggle to develop conceptual understandings of its theories and formulas. In this paper we present the process of designing a digital game that supplements introductory quantum mechanics curricula. We present our design process anchored on three key challenges: 1) drawing upon students’ past experiences and knowledge of classical mechanics while at the same time helping them break free of it to understand the unique qualities and characteristics of quantum mechanics; 2) creating an environment that is accurate in its depiction of the mathematical formulations of quantum mechanics while also playful and engaging for students; and 3) developing characters that are relatable to players but also do not reinforce gender stereotypes. Our design process can serve as a useful resource for educational game designers by providing a model for addressing these challenges.
Reinvigorating Democracy in the European Union: Lessons from Ireland’s Citizens Assembly?

This paper summarizes two sets of democratic challenges facing Europe which have in common the erosion of trust in conventional political institutions and processes. The first is the original ‘democratic deficit’ of the EU and the second is the more recent spread of populist illiberalism across various European states. These democratic challenges are then considered alongside another contemporary phenomenon, namely the growth of interest around the world in alternative forms of citizen participation - whether deliberative, popular, digital or any other. The paper concludes by examining in more detail a recent experiment with deliberative citizen participation in one EU Member State, namely Ireland’s use of citizens’ assemblies to introduce constitutional and public policy change, and asks whether Ireland’s experience could offer any lessons of relevance for addressing the EU’s democratic ills.
Prenatal origins of neuropsychiatric diseases

Aim The main objective is to review the available evidence in the literature for developmental origins of neuropsychiatric diseases and their underlying mechanisms. We also probe emerging cutting-edge prenatal MR imaging tools and their future role in advancing our understanding the prenatal footprints of neuropsychiatric disorders. Observations Both human and animal studies support early intrauterine origins of neuropsychiatric disease, particularly autism spectrum disorders, attention and hyperactivity disorders, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety and mood disorders. Specific mechanisms of intrauterine injury include infection, inflammation, hypoxia, hypo-perfusion, ischemia polysubstance use/abuse, maternal mental health and placental dysfunction. Conclusions and Relevance: There is ample evidence to suggest developmental vulnerability of the fetal brain to intrauterine exposures that increases and individual's risk for neuropsychiatric disease, especially the risk of autism spectrum disorders, depression and anxiety. Elucidating the exact timing and mechanisms of injury can be difficult, and require novel, non-invasive approaches to the study emerging structural and functional brain development of the fetus. Clinical care should both emphasize maternal health during pregnancy, as well as close, continued monitoring for at risk offspring throughout young adulthood for the early identification and treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases.
Performance of U.S. Scientific Research Cyberinfrastructure: Structural and Relational Factors for Usage

This paper identifies structural and relational factors for the performance of cyberinfrastructure as a class of cyber-physical systems, filling the gap in our knowledge about social and technical factors, as well as their coupling, for performance. This study draws from the literature on virtual organizations, network governance, and the coupling of socio-technical systems to develop a conceptual framework for performance. The empirical investigation focuses on the NSF-funded cyberinfrastructure program in the United States, arguably one of the largest and most comprehensive cyberinfrastructure programs in the country. The researchers created a unique data set with 11,143 projects over a 15-year period by combining three cyberinfrastructure program data sources. We utilized regression and random forest techniques to study the utilization and amount utilized. The results indicate the importance of structural factors—including resource allocation, field of science, and type of universities/colleges—as well as relational factors—including transaction types, resource involved, and time of coupling. The results also underscore the relevance of multi-level and actor-network perspectives in advancing theories and practice of performance for virtual organizations and network governance.
Picture description task shows promise for use with English-Spanish bilingual children

Q (1) Is the picture description task (Eisenberg & Guo, 2013; Eisenberg & Guo, 2015), which was tested on monolingual English-speaking children, feasible for analyzing the grammaticality of English...
An analysis of gender disparities amongst United States medical students, general surgery residents, vascular surgery trainees, and the vascular surgery workforce.

Abstract Gender diversity in medicine continues to be a critical topic, and gender diversity within surgical fields remains an overarching challenge. In the following review, we objectively address the data available in terms of training slots for women in general and vascular surgery and within the vascular surgery workforce. Overall, women comprise 36% of active physicians in the 2019 Association of American Medical Colleges data. The number of women in surgical fields is lower representing 22% in general surgery, 9% in neurosurgery, 6% in orthopedic surgery, 17% in plastic surgery, 8% in thoracic surgery, and 15% in vascular surgery. Also notable is the lower academic ranks held by women in surgery. The proportion of women instructors in surgery in 2020 was 61%, assistant professors 30%, associate professors 23%, and full-time professors only 13.5%. There are multiple opportunities across the divisional/institutional/societal domains in which mentorship and sponsorship can promote gender equity and inclusion. Recruitment and retention of women and minorities into the vascular academic and private practices is essential to ensure best patient outcomes and quality of care for our patients. We hope that by shedding light on this topic, there will be greater awareness and improved strategies to address the disparities within institutions.
Group-theoretic approach to scattering: The Dirac-Coulomb problem and relativistic supersymmetry

Recently developed techniques for calculating the 8-matrix in noncompact Lie-groups are extended to supersymmetry. The Dirac-Coulomb problem is shown to provide a natural realization of supersymmetry. The treatment given here may be useful in the discussion of nucleus-nucleus interactions and resulting general questions.
The Role of the Ankyrin-Binding Protein NrCAM in Node of Ranvier Formation

Molecular events involved in Na + channel clustering at the node of Ranvier have been investigated during early development. NrCAM, an ankyrin G -binding protein, precedes Na + channels at cluster sites adjacent to the tips of Schwann cell processes. Both Na + channel and ankyrin G sequestration at developing nodes are delayed in NrCAM null mutants. The action of NrCAM is manifest locally at individual nodes, rather than affecting overall neuronal expression, and is linked to glial interactions. During remyelination, Na + channel clusters at new nodes are initially labile, and anchoring to the cytoskeleton appears to grow progressively with time. The distance between Na + channel clusters across remyelinating Schwann cells (nascent internodes) increases markedly from 83 to 274 μm during node formation, arguing against schemes in which the loci of nodes are fixed in advance by the axon. A hypothesis for node formation in which axonal Na + channels move by lateral diffusion from regions of Schwann cell contact, with clustering dependent on linkage to the cytoskeleton by ankyrin G , is proposed and tested in a computational model. To match experimental measurements, this latter reaction needs fast kinetics, and the early arrival of NrCAM is postulated to contribute to this requirement.
Vertical Structure of the Atmosphere

The variation of temperature with altitude is the basis for defining a number of atmospheric shells. Clouds and storms occur in the lowest shell, the troposphere, characterized by decreasing temperature with altitude. The next highest layer is the dry stratosphere, in which temperature slowly increases with altitude. Above that is the mesosphere, where the lowest temperatures anywhere in the atmosphere occur. Finally, the thermosphere is the very tenuous, outermost layer, merging with outer space, where temperature increases with altitude. Overlapping the mesosphere and thermosphere is the ionosphere, where high-energy solar radiation dissociates atmospheric molecules and ionizes atoms and molecules. Ions and free electrons in the upper atmosphere interact with the Earth's magnetic field. Keywords: atmospheric temperature; vertical variation of atmospheric temperature; atmospheric shells/layers: troposphere; stratosphere; mesosphere; thermosphere; standard atmosphere; pressure altimeters; ionosphere
Tax Court Decisions 'Shall Be Made as Quickly as Practicable' - A Discussion of Bench Opinions

Keith Fogg discusses the legal and practical bases of bench opinions, what causes the Tax Court to issue bench opinions and how they differ from other decisions of the court.
Increased Dendrite Branching in AβPP/PS1 Mice and Elongation of Dendrite Arbors by Fasudil Administration

Amyloid-beta (Abeta) overproduction and dendrite arbor atrophy are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. The RhoA GTPase (Rho) signals through Rho kinase (ROCK) to control cytoskeletal dynamics and regulate neuron structure. Hyperactive Rho signaling destabilizes neurons leading to dendritic regression that can be rescued by genetic or pharmacological reduction of ROCK signaling. To understand what effect reduced ROCK signaling has on the dendrite arbors of mice that overproduce Abeta, we administered the ROCK inhibitor fasudil to AbetaPP/PS1 transgenic mice. We report that increased dendrite branching occurs in AbetaPP/PS1 mice and that fasudil promotes lengthening of the dendrite arbors of CA1 pyramidal neurons.
Modeling Subobject-based Inheritance

A model of subobjects and subobject selection gives us a concise expression of key semantic relationships in a variety of inheritance-based languages. Subobjects and their selection have been difficult to reason about explicitly because they are not explicit in the languages that support them. The goal of this paper is to present a relatively simple calculus to describe subobjects and subobject selection explicitly. Rather than present any deep theorems here, we develop a general calculus that can be used to explore the design of inheritance systems.
Crisis and Opportunity: How the Global Financial Crisis May Give Emerging Economies Greater Voice in International Finance via the Financial Stability Board

At the outset of the global financial crisis, most observers believed that emerging economies would not be significantly affected by the crisis, which appeared to be concentrated in the United States and Europe. However, the crisis did spread to emerging economies and they suffered capital and investment outflows, currency depreciation, stock market crashes, and declines in export and commodities prices. Given the importance of emerging economies to the global economy, the current crisis cannot be overcome on a sustainable basis without taking into account their welfare and interests. This will require policymakers to address the governance framework of international finance with the aim of giving emerging economies (and developing countries in general) greater voice in the governance of international financial institutions. This chapter addresses what appears to be the beginning of a change in the status quo. It will do so in the context of the evolution of the Financial Stability Forum (FSF), which was formed in the wake of the Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s. The FSF is an inter-governmental forum whose purpose is to promote the stability of the international financial system. The FSF’s legitimacy has suffered, however, because of the lack of emerging-country membership. In a summit held in November 2008, the G-20 called upon the FSF to expand its membership in this regard. This was accomplished four months later at the April 2009 G-20 summit, with the transformation of the FSF into the Financial Stability Board (FSB), whose membership includes all G-20 countries. Thus the global financial crisis created an opening for emerging economies to push for and achieve institutional reform that may give them greater voice in the regulation of international finance.
The Folacin Contents of Foods as Measured by a Radiometric Microbiologic Method

A radiometric microbiologic assay for folate was applied to measure food folacin levels. Sixteen different foods were analyzed. The total folacin content of the 16 foods obtained by the radiometric microbiologic method was found to compare well with that obtained by the turbidimetric microbiologic method. The folacin content ranged from 9 ng/ml of frozen reconstituted grape juice to 1820 micrograms/100 g of the cereal Total. The study showed that the radiometric microbiologic assay can be used to measure folacin content in foods.
Equivalent-quality unflattened photon beam modeling, planning, and delivery.

The clinical application of the flattening filter-free photon beam (FFF) has enjoyed greater use due to its advantage of reduced treatment time because of the increased dose rate. Its unique beam characteristics, along with the very high-dose rate, require a thorough knowledge of the capability and accuracy in FFF beam modeling, planning, and delivery. This work verifies the feasibility of modeling an equivalent quality unflattened photon beam (eqUF), and the dosimetric accuracy in eqUF beam planning and delivery. An eqUF beam with a beam quality equivalent to a conventional 6 MV photon beam with the filter in place (WF) was modeled for the Pinnacle3 TPS and the beam model quality was evaluated by gamma index test. Results showed that the eqUF beam modeling was similar to that of the WF beam, as the overall passing rate of the 2%/2 mm gamma index test was 99.5% in the eqUF beam model and 96% in the WF beam model. Hypofractionated IMRT plans were then generated with the same constraints using both WF and eqUF beams, and the similarity was evaluated by DVH comparison and generalized 3D gamma index test. The WF and eqUF plans showed no clinically significant differences in DVH comparison and, on average > 98% voxels passed the 3%/3 mm 3D gamma index test. Dosimetric accuracy in gated phantom delivery was verified by ion chamber and film measurements. All ion chamber measurements at the isocenter were within 1% of calculated values and film measurements passed the 3 mm/3% gamma index test with an overall passing rate > 95% in the high-dose and low-gradient region in both WF and eqUF cases. Treatment plan quality assurance (QA), using either measurement-based or independent calculation-based methods of ten clinically treated eqUF IMRT plans were analyzed. In both methods, the point dose differences were all within 2% difference. In the relative 2D dose distribution comparison, >95% points were within 3% dose difference or 3 mm DTA.
Palaeoclimate: Africa on the edge

Saharan humidity has varied dramatically throughout the Pleistocene era. A new deep-sea sediment record reveals large and rapid hydrological shifts that are linked to the competing influences of low- and high-latitude climate processes.
DPSK Data Quality Dependencies in Microring-Based Transmitter and Receiver

Ultra-small DPSK (de)modulators at 10 Gb/s, using silicon-based microrings, are proposed. Data quality of the microring-based DPSK is greatly dependent on operation conditions that can be optimized to improve eye-opening by up-to-7-dB.
Comparison of seizures and brain lesions produced by intracerebroventricular kainic acid and bicuculline methiodide

Intracerebroventricular kainic acid produces in rats brain lesions similar to Ammon's horn sclerosis in humans. To test the hypothesis that these lesions result indirectly from prolonged seizure activity and not from a direct action of kainic acid on the neurons that are destroyed, the effects of intracerebroventricular kainic acid and bicuculline methiodide were compared. Although bicuculline methiodide seizures differed dramatically from kainic acid seizures, both electrographically and behaviorally, the resulting brain lesions were similar for a given total limbic seizure duration. These results, in combination with other data, support the view that lesions made by intracerebroventricular administration of convulsants are indeed caused by prolonged limbic seizures. The total duration of seizure activity appears to be one important variable.
A Novel Areneisonitrile Tc Complex Inhibits the Transport Activity of MDR P-Glycoprotein

P-glycoprotein (Pgp), the product of the multidrug resistance (MDR1) gene, has been an important cancer target for development of MDR modulators that act to inhibit Pgp efflux transport activity. From a series of novel substituted areneisonitrile analogues of Tc-sestamibi, a known Pgp transport substrate, emerged the hexakis(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenylisonitrile)Tc(I) complex (Tc-TMPI) as a potential modulator of Pgp. Tracer 99mTc-TMPI showed net cellular accumulation in inverse proportion to expression of Pgp and enhancement upon addition of classic MDR modulators. At pharmacological concentrations, the carrier-added 94Tc-TMPI complex showed potent inhibition of Pgp-mediated 99mTc-sestamibi transport (EC50, 1.1 +/- 0.2 microM) and displacement of a Pgp-specific photolabel in a concentration-dependent manner. We conclude that 99Tc-TMPI directly inhibited Pgp transport activity and serves as a convenient template for development of nonradioactive Re(I) analogues as novel MDR modulators.
Three-Dimensional Dynamic Bone Histomorphometry

Dynamic bone histomorphometry is the standard method for measuring bone remodeling at the level of individual events. Although dynamic bone histomorphometry is an invaluable tool for understanding osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases, the technique's two-dimensional nature requires the use of stereology and prevents measures of individual remodeling event number and size. Here, we used a novel three-dimensional fluorescence imaging technique to achieve measures of individual resorption cavities and formation events. We performed this three-dimensional histomorphometry approach using a common model of postmenopausal osteoporosis, the ovariectomized rat. The three-dimensional images demonstrated the spatial relationship between resorption cavities and formation events consistent with the hemiosteonal model of cancellous bone remodeling. Established ovariectomy was associated with significant increases in the number of resorption cavities per unit bone surface (2.38 ± 0.24 mm⁻² sham surgery versus 3.86 ± 0.35 mm⁻² bilateral ovariectomy [OVX], mean ± SD, p < 0.05) and total volume occupied by cavities per unit bone volume (0.38% ± 0.06% sham versus 1.12% ± 0.18% OVX, p < 0.001), but there was no difference in surface area per resorption cavity, maximum cavity depth, or cavity volume. In addition, we found that established ovariectomy is associated with increased size of bone formation events because of the merging of formation events (23,700 ± 6,890 µm² sham verusus 33,300 ± 7,950 µm² OVX). No differences in mineral apposition rate (determined in 3D) were associated with established ovariectomy. That established estrogen depletion is associated with increased number of remodeling events with only subtle changes in remodeling event size suggests that circulating estrogens may have their primary effect on the origination of new basic multicellular units with relatively little effect on the progression and termination of active remodeling events.
Gamma interferon-mediated superinduction of B7-H1 in PTEN-deficient glioblastoma: a paradoxical mechanism of immune evasion.

B7-H1 is a recently discovered immunoresistance protein that is regulated post-transcriptionally after PTEN loss in malignant glioma, a deadly form of brain tumor. Here, the impact of gamma interferon mediated activation of B7-H1 was investigated in glioblastoma patients with PTEN loss. Lymphocytes and T-cells were selected for apoptosis assays after 1:1 co-culture with autologous glioma cells. Gamma interferon treatment of PTEN deficient tumors resulted in superinduction of B7-H1 protein that correlated with increased T-cell apoptosis, an effect dependent upon activation of the PI3Kinase pathway. The combination of PTEN loss and gamma interferon exposure in glioblastoma patients results in an exceptionally immunoresistant phenotype that may negate adaptive immunity through induction of T-cell apoptosis.
Patient preferences regarding pain medication in the ED

Previous studies have reported inadequate pain control in the emergency department (ED). The primary purpose of this study was to determine the proportion of ED patients with acute fractures who actually wanted pain medication given in the ED. A convenience sample of 107 adults with acute long-bone fractures seen in a community hospital ED were surveyed on the pain level they had on ED presentation, the pain level desired at ED discharge, and their preferences for administration of analgesia in the ED. Eighty-eight percent of the patients wanted pain medication given in the ED and 77% actually received it. Sixty-nine percent were comfortable with a nurse administering pain medication before physician evaluation. Seventy percent wanted pain control without being sedated and 25% wanted complete pain relief even if sedation was necessary to achieve it. Sixty percent were either slightly concerned or not concerned about potential medication side effects.
Real-time measurements of interfacial charge transfer rates at silicon/liquid junctions

La vitesse de transfert de charge a l'interface electrode constituee de silicium de conductivite de type n et electrolyte (methanol) est mesuree grâce a des techniques micro-ondes et de conductivite radio-frequence
Chloride Contamination in Alum Creek, Central Ohio

Periodically, Alum Creek at the Westerville water treatment plant contains excessive concentrations of chloride, producing a salty taste. The chloride is not removed during the water treatment process. Uncontaminated surface water and ground water throughout Alum Creek basin contain less than 25 mg/l of chloride. Larger concentrations are related to man's activity in the basin, particularly oil production. The chloride content in samples of contaminated surface water ranged from 26 to nearly 28,000 mg/l while samples from oil-field brine pits ranged between 3,000 and 57,000 mg/l. Even a brief examination of the data indicates that most of the chloride contamination in Alum Creek is due to (1) the discharge of oil-field brines directly into the mainstem or its tributaries in the upper reaches of the basin or (2) to the discharge of contaminated ground water into streams. In many areas, the highly mineralized ground water that is now seeping into the streams may have been contaminated a decade ago.
Intestinal ischemia after allogeneic stem cell transplantation: A report of four cases

Gastrointestinal ischemia after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation is a rare complication not well-described in the literature. Herein we retrospectively review charts of four patients who developed intestinal ischemia after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation at our institution. The patients were found to be predominately younger males who presented with nonspecific abdominal pain. Graft-versus-host disease was a common finding among all patients. Laboratory values suggestive of microangiopathy were present in two patients. Obesity and hypertriglyceridemia were cardiovascular risk factors found in these patients. The development of thrombotic microangiopathy and cardiovascular risk factors after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation may predispose patients to gastrointestinal ischemia and may portend a poor prognosis.
Sleep and serotonin in two strains of Mus musculus.

Abstract Two strains of Mus musculus , C57BL/10J and BALB/CJ, were studied in an attempt to check for any naturally occurring correlation between sleep and brain serotonin. The C57BL/10J compared with the BALB/CJ had more slow wave sleep throughout the day and particularly during hours of darkness. During peak sleep periods, C57BL/10J also had more REM sleep. At three different times of the day (1200, 1600, and 0400 hr) neurochemical assays were done on brain stem and cerebral cortex for tryptophan and serotonin levels and for tryptophan hydroxylase activity. An inspection of the ordering of means for strains suggested that the greater amount of slow wave sleep for C57BL/10J was paralleled by higher brain stem and cortex tryptophan levels, higher cortex tryptophan hydroxylase activity, and higher cortex serotonin levels. An inspection of temporal trends across strain and time of day suggested that slow wave sleep may vary negatively with brain stem tryptophan hydroxylase activity, brain stem serotonin level, and cortex tryptophan level. While no simple sleep-serotonin relationship obtained, because of such trends the data were interpreted as being generally consistent with the hypothesis of an active serotonergic sleep inducing mechanism in brain.
Air Pollution and Hospital Admissions for the Elderly in Detroit, Michigan

Several studies in recent years have suggested that exposure to airborne particles and to ozone are associated with increases in respiratory hospital admissions. Few of those studies have used inhalable particles as their measure of exposure, and the studies did not always examine both particle and ozone exposure. This study examined the association between both PM10 and ozone and respiratory hospital admissions for persons 65 yr of age and older in the Detroit, Michigan, metropolitan area during the years 1986 to 1989. After controlling for seasonal and other long-term temporal trends, temperature, and dew point temperature, both PM10 (RR = 1.012, 95% CI = 1.019-1.004) and 24-h ozone concentrations (RR = 1.026, 95% CI = 1.040-1.013) were associated with daily admissions for pneumonia. The relative risks are for a 10-microgram/m3 increase in PM10 and a 5-ppb increase in 24-h ozone concentration and from models including both pollutants. Admissions for COPD other than asthma were associated with PM10 (RR =...
Fluorescence determination of atmospheric NO2

The concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the atmosphere have been determined in real time and with a sensitivity of one part per billion. Laser excitation of NO2 was at 4416 and 4880 A and fluorescence was monitored at 0.7 to 0.8 μm. Results obtained on typical smoggy days in Los Angeles are presented.
Ferric borate formation in aqueous solution

Potentiometric analyses indicate that previous investigations have overestimated the stability of ferric borate complexes. The FeB(OH)42+ formation constant result obtained in the present work isBβ1* = [FeB(OH)42+][H+][Fe3+]-1[B(OH)3]-1 = (5.4±0.3) x 10-3 at 25.0°C and 0.7 molal ionic strength. Our result indicates that solution concentrations of FeOH2+ and FeB(OH)42+ are approximately equal in aqueous solution for boric acid concentrations on the order of 0.3 molal. Fe(B(OH)4)2+ is a minor species in solution compared to FeB(OH)42+ for conditions such that [B(OH)3][H+]-1≤ 350, and ferric borate complexation is insignificant in solutions such as seawater where [B(OH)3] ≤ 4× 10-4 molal.
Washington State Case Study and Guidance Developed on the Closing and Re-Opening of a Shellfishery Due to Oil Contamination

ABSTRACT The 128 foot F/V Deep Sea was illegally anchored on Washington state-owned aquatic lands in Whidbey Island's Penn Cove from December 24th 2011 until it sank on May 14th, 2012, following a ...
Uterine artery embolization: reduced radiation with refined technique.

PURPOSE: To determine the estimated absorbed ovarian dose (EAOD) and absorbed skin dose (ASD) that occurs during uterine artery embolization (UAE) using pulsed fluoroscopy and a refined procedure protocol. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The absorbed dose was measured in 20 patients who underwent UAE procedures. Radiation was limited by using low frequency pulsed fluoroscopy, bilateral catheter technique with simultaneous injections for embolization as well as pre-and postembolization exposures and focus on limitation of magnified and oblique fluoroscopy. Lithium fluoride dosimeters were placed both in the posterior vaginal fornix and on the skin at the beam entrance site. The vaginal dose was used to approximate the EAOD. Fluoroscopy time and exposures were recorded. The mean values for all patients were calculated and compared to our previous results obtained with conventional fluoroscopy and to threshold doses for the induction of deterministic skin injury. RESULTS: Mean fluoroscopy time was 10.95 min. (range 6 ‐21.3 min.) and the mean number of angiographic exposures was 20.9 (range 14 ‐53). The mean EAOD was 9.5 cGy (range 2.21‐23.21 cGy) and the mean ASD was 47.69 cGy (range 10.83‐110.14 cGy). This compares to previous results with non-pulsed fluoroscopy of an EAOD of 22.34 cGy (range 4.25‐ 65.08 cGy) and an ASD of 162.32 cGy (range 66.01-303.89 cGy) as well as threshold doses for induction of deterministic radiation injury to the skin (400 ‐500 cGy). CONCLUSION: When pulsed fluoroscopy is used with emphasis on dose reduction techniques, the EAOD and ASD can be substantially reduced to less than 1/2 (P 5 .017) and 1/3 (P < .0001) when compared to UAE performed with nonpulsed fluoroscopy. These radiation reduction tools should therefore be applied whenever possible.
Autoantibodies against B23, a nucleolar phosphoprotein, occur in scleroderma and are associated with pulmonary hypertension

Objective To determine whether the abundant nucleolar phosphoprotein B23 is a target of autoantibodies in scleroderma, and to examine the clinical phenotype associated with these antibodies. Methods Ninety-two randomly selected scleroderma sera were screened by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay against recombinant human B23. Demographic, clinical, and serologic parameters associated with B23 autoantibody status were examined. Results We demonstrated that autoantibodies against B23 occur in ∼11% of sera obtained from patients with scleroderma. B23 seropositivity was related to pulmonary hypertension, antifibrillarin antibody, anti-RNP antibody, and decreased lung capacity. In multivariate analysis, B23 autoantibodies remained strongly associated with moderate-to-severe pulmonary hypertension and antifibrillarin antibodies. Conclusion These data unite B23 with the group of nucleolar autoantigens targeted in scleroderma and thus focus attention on changes in the nucleolus that render its components immunogenic in this disease. The demonstration that antibodies to B23 are associated with an increased prevalence of pulmonary hypertension points to anti-B23 antibodies as a possible marker of a specific phenotype in scleroderma.
Effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 on water relations of soya bean

Abstract Soya bean (Glycine max (L.) Merr. ‘Bragg’) plants were grown in large containers in open-top field chambers under five atmospheric CO2 concentrations (349–946 μl1−1) and two water regimes. Rate of soil water depletion for the high CO2 treatments started to decrease under well-watered conditions during anthesis and by early pod formation under water-stressed conditions. During reproductive growth, normal and stressed plants at 349 μl1−1 (ambient level) received irrigation water 29 and 12 times, respectively, compared with 21 and 9 times, respectively, at 946μl1−1 CO2. At both anthesis and pod fill, plants grown under CO2 enrichment exhibited greater leaf area. Nevertheless, water use per plant either remained constant (stressed plants at anthesis) or else declined (well-watered plants at pod fill; both moisture levels during pod fill) in response to CO2 enrichment. At pod fill, leaves of CO2-enriched plants generally displayed a higher stomatal resistance, except near the end of the sampling period when a sudden increase in resistance was observed under low CO2 owing to low soil water availability. Midday xylem potential for well-watered plants was greater than values for stressed plants and was unaffected by CO2 treatment. Under low moisture conditions, elevated CO2 had no effect on xylem potential at anthesis; however, during pod fill potential increased significantly with increasing CO2 concentration, as elevated CO2 decreased water use rates, lowering soil water stress. Alleviation of water stress during critical reproductive phases was strongly suggested.
Tryptophan hydroxylase-2 gene polymorphisms in rhesus monkeys: association with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function and in vitro gene expression.

Tryptophan hydroxylase-2 (TPH2) is a newly identified second form of TPH responsible for serotonin synthesis in the brain and has been increasingly implicated as a contributor to the etiology of various psychiatric disorders. In this study, we have identified the constellation of polymorphisms in rhesus monkey TPH2 and investigated genotype/phenotype association as well as gene expression effects of specific polymorphisms. Genomic DNA was obtained from 247 rhesus monkeys, among which 24 had been previously examined for plasma cortisol level, dexamethasone suppression, and combined dexmethasone/ACTH challenge. Polymorphisms in all exons, splicing junctions and approximately 2 kb of the 5′-flanking region (5′-FR) of TPH2 were identified by sequencing. We identified 17 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) including two that are predictive of amino-acid change (25Pro>His and 75Gly>Ser, respectively), two mononucleotide repeats, one dinucleotide repeat, and one 159-bp insertion polymorphism. The 3′-UTR polymorphisms were significantly associated with hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activity, especially 2051A>C, which was strikingly correlated with plasma cortisol level in the morning only (F=10.203, P=0.001). Luciferase reporter gene assays showed that the 3′-UTR polymorphisms and haplotypes had a profound effect on in vitro gene expression. Accordingly, these investigations revealed that polymorphisms in 3′-UTR of rhesus monkey TPH2 modulate HPA axis function, presumably by affecting levels of TPH2 expression.
Time decay of the remanent magnetization in spin glasses (invited)

We begin with a brief history of magnetoviscosity measurements in materials. We then show that the relaxation of the thermoremanent magnetization in spin glasses is accurately characterized, over several decades in time, by the stretched exponential: σTRM=σ0 exp[−C(ωt)1−n/(1−n)]. The time‐stretch exponent (n) is given as a function of temperature for both 2.6% AgMn+0.46% Sb and 1.0% CuMn; dissimilarities in the temperature dependence of n may be due to the different anisotropy energy of the samples. We emphasize the experimental fact that a field‐cooled sample is not in equilibrium and show that the time development of the field‐cooled state may be characterized as an exponential decrease of the relaxation frequency with increasing wait time: ω=ω0 exp(−tw/t0). We briefly outline three general theories which have the stretched‐exponential time dependence, but no theory can yet explain all of the observed behavior in spin glasses. We conclude by showing that the remanent magnetization in a ferromagnet may a...
Sexual decision making and object relations theory.

The Sexual Decision-Making Inventory (SDMI) was developed to measure levels of sexual decision making based on the developmental concepts of Object Relations Theory. The inventory asks subjects to report on their thoughts and feelings at the time they decided to have sex in their most recent sexual relationship. The inventory was tested in a pilot study involving 45 male and 49 female undergradutes. A factor analysis was performed on the SDMI and six levels of sexual decision making were defined: Object Constancy, Ambivalence, Need for Merger, Need Gratification, Low Self-esteem, and Narcissistic Gratification. Endorsement of items on these subscales was related to perceptions of the relationship. In a second study involving 79 male and 135 female undergraduates, subjects completed the SDMI, the Bell Object Relations Self-report Inventory, and a questionnaire concerning perceptions of the relationship in which the sexual decision was made. Object Constancy was positively correlated to object relations, satisfaction with the relationship, and durability of the relationship; Ambivalence, Need Gratification, and Low Self-esteem were negatively correlated with object relations, satisfaction with the relationship, and durability of the relationship; Narcissistic Gratification was negatively correlated with object relations and most aspects of the relationship with interesting exceptions such as sexual satisfaction. Sex differences demonstrated that females were more likely to endorse items on the Object Constancy subscale; whereas males were more likely to endorse items on the Ambivalence, Need Gratification, and Narcissistic Gratification subscales. There were no sex differences, however, in quailty of general object relations.
The effect of SCH 23390 against toxic doses of cocaine, d-amphetamine and methamphetamine.

Abstract The effect of SCH 23390, a dopamine-one (D1) antagonist, in preventing acute toxicity induced by lethal doses of cocaine, d-amphetamine, and methamphetamine was studied in the rat. Animals were first pretreated with SCH 23390 (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) and then were challenged with cocaine (70 mg/kg, i.p., an LD85), d-amphetamine (75 mg/kg, i.p., an LD95), and methamphetamine (100 mg/kg, i.p., an LD90). SCH 23390 did not alter the incidence of stimulant-induced seizures compared to the vehicle controls. Significant protection against cocaine-induced death was afforded only by the lowest dose of SCH 23390 tested. Significant protection against d-amphetamine-induced death was provided by all doses, with a dose dependent effect noted so that the incidence decreased from 95% for vehicle to 30% (p ≤ 0.01) with 2.5 mg/kg SCH 23390 pretreatment. No statistically significant reduction in the incidence of methamphetamine-induced death was seen with SCH 23390 pretreatment. The ability of SCH 23390 to protect against d-amphetamine, but apparently not against methamphetamine-induced death, suggest that different mechanisms of toxicity may exist between these drugs at high doses.
Clock Synchronization from Satellite Tracking

The tracking of synchronous satellites to provide propagation delays for the synchronization of clocks is described. The tracking is accomplished by range measurements to the satellite from three stations using signals transponded by the satellite. These same signals also functioned as the timing signals for the synchronization of other stations' clocks. Although the range measurements were of low resolution by usual standards, approximately 3000 meters, they provided the delays necessary to synchronize clocks to 40 microseconds or better. These results were obtained over a 4-month period using two satellites with measurements from five stations in the United States and South America.
Assessment of Laser-Induced Damage in Laser-Micromachined Rare-Earth Permanent Magnets

The effects of micromachining bulk rare-earth magnets are investigated by measurements of the moment of sub-millimeter scale micromachined structures. A model representing these effects is also presented to provide a basis for interpreting the results. Laser-induced damage to the magnetic material, manifesting as a loss of magnetic properties, is estimated to reach 10-20 μm from the magnet edge in the lateral dimension. The results indicate the affected volume due to laser micromachining bulk rare-earth magnets is limited to less than 25 μm, laterally through the material, for the rare-earth magnetic materials tested.
The effects of conjugated deferoxamine in porcine skin flaps.

Background The free radical scavenger, deferoxamine (DFO) has been shown to reduce skin flap necrosis; however, its shortcomings are its toxicity and short plasma half-life. Methods This study investigates the effects of the less toxic, longer acting conjugated form, DFO-Hespan (DFO-H), to ischemic porcine skin flaps. During the study, DFO-H plasma concentrations and flap viability were evaluated over 10 days. Results Steady DFO serum levels were maintained with no evidence of systemic side effects. However, DFO-H was not effective in increasing porcine skin flap viability. Mean treated flap viability (n = 18) was 36.2% ± 1.7% (mean ± SE ) vs control (n = 16) 35.8% ± 2.6%, p = .9. Conclusion DFO-H conjugation increases its half-life and its systemic tolerance for DFO. However, this conjugation may also reduce DFO's effectiveness to preserve flap survival probably by decreasing its ability to reach the intracellular oxygen free radicals. In addition, further studies are needed to investigate whether longer DFO administration given postoperatively can be more effective in reducing ischemic injury. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Head Neck 22: 579–584, 2000.
The effect of fasting on insulin-like growth factor-I nuclear transcript abundance in rat liver

The abundance of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) messenger RNA (mRNA) is decreased in the liver of fasting, protein-restricted, and energy-restricted rats. The extent to which this decrease in steady state mRNA abundance may be attributed to a decrease in IGF-I gene transcription remains unresolved. In the present study, we used an RNase protection assay to quantify IGF-I nuclear transcript (pre-mRNA) and mRNA abundance in whole cellular RNA isolated from liver of fasted and nonfasted male rats (4-6 weeks of age). The results of the RNase protection assay of IGF-I nuclear transcripts were strongly correlated with the results of nuclear transcription elongation (run-on) assays (r > 0.90; P < 0.001). In addition, the RNase protection assay allows for a greater capability for sensitively monitoring gene transcription in a large number of samples. In four different experiments, a consistent decrease in the quantity of IGF-I nuclear transcripts was observed in liver of animals fasted for 72 h, whereas IGF...
Observers’ Reactions to Social-Sexual Behavior at Work: An Ethical Decision Making Perspective

The role of observers has been generally ignored in prior theories and research on social-sexual behavior at work. This study proposed and tested an ethical decision making model of individuals’ reactions to social-sexual behavior that they witness at work. Full-time employees responded to vignettes regarding an incident of social-sexual behavior. The findings revealed the influence of both the moral intensity of the behavior and the ethical ideology of the observer on recognition of the behavior as an ethical issue and intentions to intervene in the behavior. In addition, respondents’ experiences with a sexualized work environment moderated the relationship between their recognition of social-sexual behavior as an ethical issue and their intentions to intervene in the behavior.
Wetting characteristic of ceramic to water and adhesive resin.

Abstract Statement of Problem. Maximum wetting of ceramic by adhesive resin is required to achieve optimal adhesion of the resin to ceramic. It is unknown whether the adhesion of the resin to the ceramic is affected by the surface topography and wetting by water or the adhesive resin. Purpose. This study was designed to characterize the effect of surface topography on the wetting of ceramics by water and adhesive resin. Material and Methods. Three materials, a veneering ceramic, Eris (ERV), and 2 core ceramics, Empress 1 core ceramic (E1C) and an experimental core ceramic (EXC), were used. Four surface-roughening procedures were used. They included polishing through 1200-grit SiC paper (P), air abrasion with 50 μm Al 2 O 3 (A), etching with 5% hydrofluoric acid gel (E), and a combination of airborne particle abrasion and etching (A/E). Forty bar specimens (15 × 10 × 1.5 mm) were prepared from each material (N=120). Twelve groups of 10 specimens each were prepared for the 4 surface-roughening procedures. Advancing (θ A ) and receding (θ R ) contact angles were measured with a CAHN Dynamic Contact Analyzer, on the basis of the Wilhelmy plate technique, with water and adhesive resin. The work of adhesion (W A ) by the probing media was calculated by use of advancing contact angle data. The data were analyzed by t testing, analysis of variance, and Duncan's tests (α=0.05) to determine the statistical significance of differences in the contact angles between ceramic and water or resin as a function of surface roughening. Results. In general, the mean θ A values were higher than the mean θ R values except for groups of E or A/E specimens with water used as a probing medium. E and A/E treatments yielded the lowest contact angle values, followed by A and P treatments ( P R with resin. The corresponding values for ERV were between those of E1C and EXC except for θ R values with resin. The resin medium yielded higher mean contact angles than the water medium for the same surfaces. W A ranged from 62.9 to 145.2 mJ/m 2 . Conclusion. Within the limitations of this study, etching or a combination of air abrasion and etching were comparably effective in increasing the surface area for bonding. The most wettable surface as measured by the resin medium was EXC, followed by ERV and E1C. (J Prosthet Dent 2002;88:616-21.)