cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Initiation of Physiological Function by Limited Proteolysis

Limited proteolysis is a highly specific, irreversible process which can serve to initiate physiological functions by converting a precursor protein into a biologically-active form. Both the substrate specificity of the activating enzyme and the conformation of the precursor protein determine which specific peptide bonds are cleaved. The most extensively studied activation systems of this kind are the zymogen-enzyme conversions, the conversion of procollagen to collagen, of proinsulin to insulin, and the activation of a series of proteins which control blood coagulation (factors IX and X, prothrombin, fibrinogen). In some of these processes, the precursor and the activating enzyme originate in different tissues; the activation reaction is thus timed and regulated by the transfer of the reacting components from one cell system to another.
Serum β-endorphin levels in chronic pelvic pain patients

Abstractβ-Endorphin is a 31 amino acid opioid peptide with several physiologic roles of which analgesia is one. Numerous reports relate stress in humans to an increase in β-endorphin levels, suggesting a role for the peptide as a pain modulator. In chronic pain patients, elevated as well as reduced β-endorphin levels have been reported. The pharmacopathology, if any, of chronic pelvic pain remains unclear. This study is to investigate the levels of serum β-endorphin in chronic pelvic pain patients in relation to their perception of pain intensity. Twenty-three patients undergoing diagnostic laparoscopy for chronic pelvic pain were studied. Ten control patients were chosen from patients scheduled for elective laparoscopy sterilization who had no previous history of pelvic pain. Patients were asked to indicate their perception of pain intensity, using a visual analog scale, numbered one to ten. Laparoscopy was performed on all patients, with documentation of location, density of adhesions, and/or the presen...
Quantification of Lysine Acetylation and Succinylation Stoichiometry in Proteins Using Mass Spectrometric Data-Independent Acquisitions (SWATH)

Post-translational modification of lysine residues by NƐ-acylation is an important regulator of protein function. Many large-scale protein acylation studies have assessed relative changes of lysine acylation sites after antibody enrichment using mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Although relative acylation fold-changes are important, this does not reveal site occupancy, or stoichiometry, of individual modification sites, which is critical to understand functional consequences. Recently, methods for determining lysine acetylation stoichiometry have been proposed based on ratiometric analysis of endogenous levels to those introduced after quantitative per-acetylation of proteins using stable isotope-labeled acetic anhydride. However, in our hands, we find that these methods can overestimate acetylation stoichiometries because of signal interferences when endogenous levels of acylation are very low, which is especially problematic when using MS1 scans for quantification. In this study, we sought to improve the accuracy of determining acylation stoichiometry using data-independent acquisition (DIA). Specifically, we use SWATH acquisition to comprehensively collect both precursor and fragment ion intensity data. The use of fragment ions for stoichiometry quantification not only reduces interferences but also allows for determination of site-level stoichiometry from peptides with multiple lysine residues. We also demonstrate the novel extension of this method to measurements of succinylation stoichiometry using deuterium-labeled succinic anhydride. Proof of principle SWATH acquisition studies were first performed using bovine serum albumin for both acetylation and succinylation occupancy measurements, followed by the analysis of more complex samples of E. coli cell lysates. Although overall site occupancy was low (<1%), some proteins contained lysines with relatively high acetylation occupancy. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
Circadian Rhythms: Understanding the SCN Connectome

A new study utilizes transgenic mice to elucidate the coupling between cells of a neuronal pacemaker that determines circadian period.
Click-based functionalization of a 2'-O-propargyl-modified branched DNA nanostructure.

DNA has emerged as a versatile building block for programmable self-assembly. DNA-based nanostructures have been widely applied in biosensing, bioimaging, drug delivery, molecular computation and macromolecular scaffolding. A variety of strategies have been developed to functionalize these nanostructures. In this study, we report a facile click-based strategy to incorporate a metal chelating ligand and a fluorescent tag into a three-point-star DNA tile containing 2′-O-propargyl groups. Such a strategy opens up the possibility of functionalizing pre-assembled DNA strands to construct platforms for metal or drug delivery.
Reverse Engineering of Trascriptional Networks Uncovers Candidate Master Regulators Governing Neuropathology of Schizophrenia

Tissue-specific reverse engineering of transcriptional networks has led to groundbreaking discoveries uncovering underlying regulators of cellular networks in various diseases. However, whether these approaches can be applied to complex psychiatric diseases is largely unexplored, partly due to the general lack of appropriate cellular models for mental disorders. In this study, using a recently published high quality RNA-seq data on dorsolateral prefrontal cortex from 307 Schizophrenia (SCZ) patients and 245 controls, we deconvoluted the transcriptional network aiming at the identification of master regulators mediating expression of a large body of genes. Together with an independent RNA-seq data on cultured primary neuronal cells derived from olfactory neuroepithelium from a cohort of 143 SCZ cases and 112 controls, we identified five candidate master regulators (MRs), including TCF4, NR1H2, HDAC9, ZNF10, and ZNF436. TCF4 was previously identified as a SCZ susceptibility gene, but its regulatory subnetworks had been elusive. Other genes have not been convincingly associated with SCZ in previous studies. Additional analysis of predicted transcription factor binding site, ChIP-Seq data and ATAC-Seq data confirmed many predicted regulatory targets by the identified MRs. Our study uncovered a few candidate master regulators for SCZ that affects a collection of genes, and these master regulators may serve as therapeutic targets for intervention.
Next-generation Sequencing of Nonmuscle Invasive Bladder Cancer Reveals Potential Biomarkers and Rational Therapeutic Targets.

Background Molecular characterization of nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) may provide a biologic rationale for treatment response and novel therapeutic strategies.
Features of dissociation differentially predict antidepressant response to ketamine in treatment-resistant depression.

Abstract Background Ketamine induces rapid and robust antidepressant effects, and many patients also describe dissociation, which is associated with antidepressant response. This follow-up study investigated whether antidepressant efficacy is uniquely related to dissociative symptom clusters. Methods Treatment-resistant patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) or bipolar disorder (BD) (n = 126) drawn from three studies received a single subanesthetic (0.5 mg/kg) ketamine infusion. Dissociative effects were measured using the Clinician-Administered Dissociative States Scale (CADSS). Antidepressant response was measured using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D). A confirmatory factor analysis established the validity of CADSS subscales (derealization, depersonalization, amnesia), and a general linear model with repeated measures was fitted to test whether subscale scores were associated with antidepressant response. Results Factor validity was supported, with a root mean square error of approximation of .06, a comparative fit index of .97, and a Tucker-Lewis index of .96. Across all studies and timepoints, the depersonalization subscale was positively related to HAM-D percent change. A significant effect of derealization on HAM-D percent change was observed at one timepoint (Day 7) in one study. The amnesia subscale was unrelated to HAM-D percent change. Limitations Possible inadequate blinding; combined MDD/BD datasets might have underrepresented ketamine's antidepressant efficacy; the possibility of Type I errors in secondary analyses. Conclusions From a psychometric perspective, researchers may elect to administer only the CADSS depersonalization subscale, given that it was most closely related to antidepressant response. From a neurobiological perspective, mechanistic similarities may exist between ketamine-induced depersonalization and antidepressant response, although off-target effects cannot be excluded.
Direct Action: Protest and the Reinvention of American Radicalism

L.A. Kauffman’s valuable book, Direct Action, is both a thematic history of a period and a dramatic exploration of the changing repertoire of protest tactics used by the American movements of the r...
The Emergence of Transpersonal Psychology

Transpersonal psychology, as the fourth force in psychology, has emerged from humanistic psychology (the third force) in much the same way that humanistic approaches emerged from their behavioral and analytic foundations. To address the role of transpersonal perspectives within the realm of humanistic psychology seems, therefore, a natural place to begin this discussion, for humanistic psychology represents an openness to all aspects of human nature and human beings: behavior, cognition, and affect as well as transcendent experience. And it is this very openness to experience that makes third force psychology the natural home for existential-phenomenological perspectives. Yet, in spite of this openness, there remains a not-so-subtle resistance to incorporating certain approaches to the understanding of human life and human existence into the humanistic framework, that is, approaches that integrate aspects of ourselves that do not seem part of our more day-to-day conceptual, emotional, and languaged realities—the so-called transpersonal and/or spiritual dimensions.
The role of the national diabetes advisory board in diabetes management

The history of the National Diabetes Advisory Board is reviewed, particularly from the perspective of the role of the board in advancing diabetes care. In addition, its potential future activities in the arena of translating research advances, for example, the results of the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT), are delineated.
Natriuretic peptides, ejection fraction, and prognosis: parsing the phenotypes of heart failure.

Since the first pivotal studies introduced the natriuretic peptides as biomarkers for the diagnosis of heart failure (HF), use of both B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and its N-terminal equivalent (NT-proBNP) has grown not only for this indication, but also for establishing HF prognosis as well.
Chronic post-stroke fatigue: It may no longer be about the stroke itself.

Abstract Objective Post-stroke fatigue (PSF) is a debilitating complication of stroke recovery. Contributing risk factors, whether they are modifiable, and if they change over time remain understudied. We determine factors associated with PSF and how they evolve from the subacute through chronic phases of recovery. Patients and methods A consecutive series of patients presenting to our comprehensive stroke center with acute stroke were seen in follow-up within 6 months of infarct and administered the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) fatigue scale to evaluate for PSF. It was re-administered >6 months post-infarct. Demographics, stroke characteristics (NIH Stroke Scale [NIHSS], infarct size and location), medical comorbidities, and outcomes (modified Rankin Scale [mRS]) were also recorded. Regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with FACIT scores and PSF at each time point. Results 203 patients were administered the FACIT a mean 1.6 months post-stroke; 128 underwent re-administration (mean 13.9 months post-event). In adjusted models, stroke severity (follow-up NIHSS [p Conclusion Early PSF appears to be largely attributable to stroke severity, while chronic fatigue occurs in the setting of medical comorbidities and medication use. This has significant clinical implications when considering management strategies at different stages of recovery.
Impaired butyrate absorption in the proximal colon, low serum butyrate and diminished central effects of butyrate on blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Aim Butyrate is a major gut microbiota-derived metabolite. Reduced butyrate-producing bacteria has been reported in the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), a model of hypertension characterized by dysfunctional autonomic nervous system and gut dysbiosis. Here, we demonstrate a potential mechanism for butyrate in blood pressure regulation. Methods High-performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry were performed to measure butyrate levels in feces and serum. Ussing chamber determined butyrate transport in colon ex vivo. Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry evaluated expression of butyrate transporter, Slc5a8, in the colon. Mean arterial blood pressure was measured in catheterized anesthetized rats before and after a single butyrate intracerebroventricular injection. Activity of cardioregulatory brain regions was determined by functional magnetic resonance imaging to derive neural effects of butyrate. Results In the SHR, we demonstrated elevated butyrate levels in cecal content, but diminished butyrate levels in circulation, possibly due to reduced expression of Slc5a8 transporter in the colon. In addition, we observed lower expression levels of butyrate-sensing receptors in the hypothalamus of SHR, likely leading to the reduced effects of centrally administered butyrate on blood pressure in the SHR. Functional magnetic resonance imaging revealed reduced activation of cardioregulatory brain regions following central administration of butyrate in the SHR compared to control. Conclusion We demonstrated a reduced availability of serum butyrate in the SHR, possibly due to diminished colonic absorption. Reduced expression of butyrate-sensing receptors in the SHR hypothalamus may explain the reduced central responsiveness to butyrate, indicating microbial butyrate may play a role in blood pressure regulation.
Retrospective evaluation of the severity of and prognosis associated with potassium abnormalities in dogs and cats presenting to an emergency room (January 2014-August 2015): 2441 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the severity, concurrent clinical signs, and disease processes associated with potassium abnormalities in dogs and cats presenting to a veterinary emergency department and associated mortality. DESIGN: Retrospective and descriptive study over 20 months. SETTING: University teaching hospital. ANIMALS: 1916 dog and 525 cat visits. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Medical records from patients with a potassium concentration measured within 24 hours of admission were identified. Hypokalemia and hyperkalemia were defined as a potassium concentration 5 mmol/L [5 mEq/L], respectively. Associated disease processes and pathophysiologic risk factors for potassium abnormalities were reviewed for moderate to severe potassium abnormalities (<3 mmol/L or ≥6 mmol/L) [<3 mEq/L or ≥6 mEq/L]. Mortality associated with normokalemia, mild, and moderate to severe dyskalemia were evaluated. Overall prevalence of abnormal potassium concentration was 27% in dogs and 40% in cats. Moderate to severe hypokalemia and hyperkalemia were present in 3% of dogs and 8% of cats, and 2% of dogs and 7% of cats, respectively. Moderate to severe hypokalemia was most commonly associated with gastrointestinal disease (48% of dogs and 44% of cats) while moderate to severe hyperkalemia was most commonly associated with urinary tract disease (60% of dogs and 97% of cats). Dogs with hypokalemia and dogs and cats with hyperkalemia (P < 0.001) had significantly greater mortality than those with normokalemia. Dogs with mild hypokalemia and mild hyperkalemia (P < 0.0001) had higher mortality than dogs with normokalemia, but this was not found in cats. CONCLUSIONS: Dyskalemia was common in this population and was associated with greater mortality. Moderate to severe potassium abnormalities were uncommon in this population and occurred most frequently in animals with gastrointestinal and urinary tract disease.
Reciprocity through ratings: An experimental study of bias in evaluations

Abstract This paper studies the potential for ratings of seller quality to be influenced by side payments to raters. In a laboratory setting, we find that even modest side payments from sellers to raters have large effects, with the type of rating (favorable or unfavorable) given to a seller determined primarily by how large a monetary transfer the seller makes to the rater. Our results demonstrate that side payments can crowd out a rater’s concern for buyers, even in situations where there is no potential for long-term relationship building.
The Role of Anticoagulation in COVID-19-Induced Hypercoagulability.

Purpose of review We aim to provide a comprehensive analysis of hypercoagulability in individuals affected by COVID-19. Our goal is to describe the hypercoagulable state related to the infection and provide guidance regarding the possible benefits of anti-coagulation with the support of evidence from current literature. Recent findings The incidence of thrombotic disease in individuals affected by COVID-19 is reported as high as 31%. A significant mortality benefit has been observed with the use of therapeutic anticoagulation in high-risk individuals. Literature supports the use of scoring systems, such as the sepsis-induced coagulopathy score, to risk-stratify individuals who might benefit from anticoagulation. COVID-19-induced hypercoagulability has been demonstrated to play a significant role in overall COVID-19 outcomes. Current literature shows promising evidence with the use of therapeutic anticoagulation in high-risk individuals. Further studies are needed to better analyze the risks and benefits of anticoagulation in this specific patient population.
Parental Gambling as a Moderator of the Child Delinquency–Gambling Relationship: Does Having a Role Model in the Home Make a Difference?

The relationship between delinquency and gambling has drawn significant attention from researchers in the behavioral and social sciences, yet there are aspects of this relationship that remain largely unexplored. The role of "third variables" in moderating the connection between child delinquency and gambling involvement is one such aspect. Accordingly, the current study set out to examine the impact of parent gambling involvement on the child delinquency-gambling relationship in a sample of 3089 adolescents (1576 males, 1513 females) from Cohort K of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC-K). Using cross-sectional data from Wave 7 of the LSAC, the current study tested the possibility that gambling involvement in parents may moderate the relationship between delinquency and gambling in their offspring. Results obtained from a regression analysis revealed that the link between delinquency, conceptualized as an early marker of general deviance, and gambling variety, as measured across ten different forms of wagering (e.g., Casino gambling, sports betting, horse and dog racing, scratch tickets), changed as a function of parental involvement in these same ten behaviors. In seeking clarity on this relationship, it was noted that the association between child delinquency and gambling involvement grew in proportion to the strength of parental involvement in gaming activities. Hence, having a gambling role model in the home may increase opportunities and incentive for gambling in children predisposed to antisocial behavior or general deviance.
Urban food subsidies reduce natural food limitations and reproductive costs for a wetland bird

There is a strong conservation need to understand traits of species that adapt to urban environments, but results have been equivocal. Wetland birds exhibit a strong phylogenetic signal towards urban tolerance; however, they have largely been ignored in urban studies. In their historic ranges, wetland birds inhabit dynamic systems, traveling long distances to locate food. This ability to exploit dynamic resources may translate to success in urban environments, areas characterized by novel food opportunities. We used the Wood Stork (Mycteria americana), a species of conservation concern, to determine if the ability to exploit resources in natural environments translated to exploitation of urban resources. During optimal natural foraging conditions, storks nesting in both urban and natural wetlands had narrow diet breadths and high productivity. However, during suboptimal conditions, urban stork diet expanded to include anthropogenic items, leading to increased productivity. Our study provides a mechanistic understanding of how a wetland species persists, and even thrives, in urban environments. We demonstrated that species inhabiting dynamic systems can exploit urban areas resulting in increased reproductive performance during suboptimal conditions. Together, urban environments may support biodiversity in a variety of ways, but species-specific mechanistic understanding will help highlight how to best mitigate potential threats of urbanization.
Breast cancer endocrine therapy adherence in health professional shortage areas: Unique effects on patients with mental illness.

Abstract Objective Evaluate whether breast cancer endocrine therapy adherence is affected by access to primary and mental health care, particularly among at-risk patients with mental illness. Methods The study included 21,892 SEER-Medicare women aged 68 or older with stage I-IV ER+ breast cancer, 2007 to 2013. Patient home counties during breast cancer diagnosis, if evaluated for HPSA care shortage status, were categorized as least, moderate, or highest shortage; unevaluated counties (no known shortage) were a fourth category. Endocrine therapy initiation and discontinuation were analyzed with Cox regression, and daily adherence with longitudinal linear regression. Results After multivariate adjustment, patients in high primary care shortage counties were less likely to initiate endocrine therapy, reference least shortage [HR 0.92 (95% CI 0.86–0.97)]. Unevaluated counties had more oncologists per capita, fewer residents below the federal poverty level, and higher incomes. Mental health shortages were not associated with outcomes, however subgroups living in unevaluated counties were less likely to discontinue: patients with bipolar and psychotic disorders [discontinuation HR 0.35 (95% CI 0.17–0.73)], substance use [HR 0.48 (95% CI 0.24–0.95)], anxiety disorders [HR 0.56 (95% CI 0.35–0.90)]. Conclusions Poor primary care access was associated with a lower likelihood of initiating endocrine therapy but living in counties without established mental health shortages may reduce the harmful association between mental illness and incomplete treatment receipt. Patients with mental illness may be more equipped to complete cancer treatment if given better mental health care access, suggesting a need for care coordination between primary and mental health care.
From Existentialism to Nihilism As Represented in Rajiv Joseph’s Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo

Rajiv Joseph is a contemporary American playwright. His play Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo was premiered in May 2009 at Kirk Douglas Theatre, California. The play sheds light on looting crimes committed by American soldiers in Baghdad 2003 after American invasion of Iraq. It puts into focus an important period in American literature which focuses on the aftermath of 9/11 events and the war on terrorism. It examines human beings’ perception of the world and others during hard times. The aim of this paper is to analyze Rajiv Joseph’s Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo in the light of Jean Paul Sartre’s existential concepts, focusing on characters’ eventual nihilist attitude, giving up morals and values. The play tries to put into focus war bewilderment which encourages the characters to search for salvation in an absurd world, drawing attention to the effect of the war on Iraqis and American soldiers’ lives, and suggesting that human world is as cruel as animal world.
COVID-19 vaccines and mental distress.

Background The COVID-19 pandemic brought about large increases in mental distress. The uptake of COVID-19 vaccines is expected to significantly reduce health risks, improve economic and social outcomes, with potential benefits to mental health. Purpose To examine short-term changes in mental distress following the receipt of the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Methods Participants included 8,003 adults from the address-based sampled, nationally representative Understanding America Study (UAS), surveyed at regular intervals between March 10, 2020, and March 31, 2021 who completed at least two waves of the survey. Respondents answered questions about COVID-19 vaccine status and self-reported mental distress as measured with the four-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4). Fixed-effects regression models were used to identify the change in PHQ-4 scores and categorical indicators of mental distress resulting from the application of the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Results People who were vaccinated between December 2020 and March 2021 reported decreased mental distress levels in the surveys conducted after receiving the first dose. The fixed-effects estimates show an average effect of receiving the vaccine equivalent to 4% of the standard deviation of PHQ-4 scores (p-value<0.01), a reduction in 1 percentage point (4% reduction from the baseline level) in the probability of being at least mildly depressed, and of 0.7 percentage points (15% reduction from the baseline level) in the probability of being severely depressed (p-value = 0.06). Conclusions Getting the first dose of COVID-19 resulted in significant improvements in mental health, beyond improvements already achieved since mental distress peaked in the spring of 2020.
Contemporary strategies to assess and manage liver donor steatosis: a review.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Due to a persistent shortage of donor livers, attention has turned toward ways of utilizing marginal grafts, particularly those with steatosis, without incurring inferior outcomes. Here we review the evaluation and utilization of steatotic liver allografts, highlight recently published data, and discuss novel methods of graft rehabilitation. RECENT FINDINGS Although severe liver allograft (>60%) steatosis has been associated with inferior graft and recipient outcomes, mild (<30%) steatosis has not. There is ongoing debate regarding safe utilization of grafts with moderate (30-60%) steatosis. Presently, no established protocols for evaluating steatosis in donor candidates or utilizing such grafts exist. Liver biopsy is accepted as the gold standard technique, though noninvasive methods have shown promise in accurately predicting steatosis. More recently, machine perfusion has been shown to enhance ex situ liver function and reduce steatosis, emerging as a potential means of optimizing steatotic grafts prior to transplantation. SUMMARY Steatotic liver allografts constitute a large proportion of deceased donor organs. Further work is necessary to define safe upper limits for the acceptable degree of steatosis, develop standardized evaluation protocols, and establish utilization guidelines that prioritize safety. Machine perfusion has shown promise in rehabilitating steatotic grafts and offers the possibility of expanding the deceased donor pool.
Land Use and Ecological Change: A 12,000-Year History

Human use of land has been transforming Earth's ecology for millennia. From hunting and foraging to burning the land to farming to industrial agriculture, increasingly intensive human use of land h...
Electrorheological Fluids — Materials and Applications

Ask an engineer if a material can be changed from a liquid to a solid and the reply will likely be: “Of course, water can be frozen to make ice.” Ask if the solidification might be accomplished at constant temperature or pressure and there will probably be no response. If you probe further and see if the engineer can suggest a way to control the shear stress vs. shear rate behavior, a continued look of bewilderment will be the response.
Antibody-resistant spread of vesicular stomatitis virus infection in cell lines of epithelial origin

Abstract In MDCK cells, vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) buds exclusively from the basolateral plasma membranes beneath tight junctions, whereas influenza virus forms only at the free apical surface. Anti-VSV antiserum did not prevent the formation of plaques on MDCK cell monolayers infected with VSV, whereas plaque formation in BHK-21 cells was completely inhibited by such antiserum. Under similar conditions, homologous antiserum completely prevented plaque formation by influenza virus on MDCK cells. In several other epithelioid cell lines, VSV also formed plaques in the presence of specific antiserum. These results suggest that VSV receptors are present on basolateral membranes in the cells studied and that junctional complexes present between cells may exclude antibody from intercellular spaces and thus permit the lateral spread of virus infection in the presence of neutralizing antibody.
Bacteriological Evaluation of Two Test Methods for Chlorine in Swimming Pools

It was found that orthotolidine and plastic test strips containing a mixture of syringaldazine and vanillinazine gave different results as to chlorine content of water samples containing urine or large amounts of bacteria while giving consistently similar results with water samples having only sodium hypochlorite added. Orthotolidine was found to give erroneously “safe” readings when in fact viable bacteria were observed on membrane filters after filtration.
Market Efficiency, Rational Expectations, and Estimation Risk

In asset pricing, estimation risk refers to investor uncertainty about the parameters of the return or cashflow process. We show that estimation risk can significantly affect the time-series and cross-sectional behavior of asset prices. In particular, parameter uncertainty will tend to induce price reversals and negative serial correlation in returns. Prices can violate familiar 'volatility bounds' when investors are rational. Cross-sectionally, expected returns deviate from the CAPM even if investors attempt to hold mean-variance efficient portfolios, and these deviations will be predictable based on past dividends, prices, and returns. In short, we argue that estimation risk is likely to be important for characterizing an efficient market.
Magnesium for Aircraft Construction

T E use of magnesium alloy as a material for aircraft construction has increased rapidly in the last few years. Castings and forgings are in common use, and a small amount of sheet and extruded stock is being used for cowlings, fairings, and interior furnishings. Litt le attention, however, has been paid to the possibility of using magnesium for the main structure. I t is likely t ha t most designers feel t ha t the use of magnesium alloy in the conventional semimonocoque construction offers too many difficulties from the corrosion standpoint. In reality, magnesium alloy sheet may be successfully used except when subject to frequent immersion in sea water. The Bureau of Standards report on five-year atmospheric exposure tests a t Coco Solo states tha t , "Magnesium panels were in unexpectedly excellent condition I t may be concluded tha t magnesium alloy could doubtlessly be used successfully for prolonged periods in the tropics, particularly if occasional inspection and repair on the paint coating were possible." This paper deals with the possibility of substi tuting magnesium alloy for aluminum alloy in certain types of airplane structures, thereby saving weight, and /o r decreasing the cost of production. I t gives the results of static tests on a monocoque magnesium tail surface and several sheet-stringer panel tests, and indicates the research which must be done before the manufacturer is warranted in adopting such material for production.
Bayesian decision theoretic two-stage design in phase II clinical trials with survival endpoint

In this paper, we consider two-stage designs with failure-time endpoints in single-arm phase II trials. We propose designs in which stopping rules are constructed by comparing the Bayes risk of stopping at stage I with the expected Bayes risk of continuing to stage II using both the observed data in stage I and the predicted survival data in stage II. Terminal decision rules are constructed by comparing the posterior expected loss of a rejection decision versus an acceptance decision. Simple threshold loss functions are applied to time-to-event data modeled either parametrically or nonparametrically, and the cost parameters in the loss structure are calibrated to obtain desired type I error and power. We ran simulation studies to evaluate design properties including types I and II errors, probability of early stopping, expected sample size, and expected trial duration and compared them with the Simon two-stage designs and a design, which is an extension of the Simon's designs with time-to-event endpoints. An example based on a recently conducted phase II sarcoma trial illustrates the method.
Mechanisms of capillarity via supercomputer simulation

Abstract Fundamental mechanisms of capillary action are developed qualitatively from a classical molecular point of view. Relative to rising capillary motion, it is found tha the first prerequisite is that the fluid mechanism adhesion to a tube wall must be adequate to overcome the effects of both gravity and intermolecular fluid forces. This condition is independent of the tube width and enables a molecular layer of fluid to rise. Thereafter, an additional prerequisite is that the intermolecular fluid forces must be adequate to raise the interior particles along with the fluid particles along the walls. This condition depends on the tube width. Relative to falling capillary motion, corresponding conditions hold. Illustrative CRAY X-MP/24 computer examples are described and discussed. Finally, on the basis of available experimental data, it is surmised that wall adhesion is of a coulombic nature.
STEM integration: Evidence of student learning in design-based curricula

This study focuses on student learning of engineering design practices and the development of engineering thinking skills during participation in design-based curricular activities and will seek to answer the question: What evidence is present in students' engineering design project work of engineering learning? Student teams working in a STEM integration curricular module implemented in a fifth grade science classroom were analyzed. This study employs case study methods as a means to deeply analyze each team's work through content analysis of student classroom artifacts and video analysis. We use the Framework for Quality K-12 Engineering Education, with a particular focus on process of design, STEM content, engineering thinking, and communication, as a lens for analyzing the engineering thinking involved in student learning. This research aims to develop an initial understanding of how to identify these engineering learning outcomes in classrooms, with the overall goal of developing engineering assessment tools for classroom teachers. Evidence of student learning outcomes for these key engineering components was found throughout student work and student interactions, though varying levels of learning were shown by each group. This study demonstrates that it is possible to identify student learning of engineering processes within a design-based curriculum.
An acoustically linked moored‐buoy ocean observatory

A team from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI; Woods Hole, Mass.) recently developed and successfully deployed a buoy-based ocean observatory that uses acoustic communication to retrieve data from sensors in the water column and on the seafloor out to ranges of about three kilometers from the buoy (Figure 1). Each buoy is equipped with an Iridium satellite link that can transmit more than one megabyte of data per day to shore. The near-real-time data provided by this system, and two-way communication that enables control of sensors from shore, affords new opportunities for observing episodic events—such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and phytoplankton blooms—and changing ocean conditions over seasons and years, or during times of the year when measurements from shipboard platforms are simply not possible.
Processing of three-dimensional particle tracking velocimetry data

An interpolation method is presented which allows the accurate evaluation of a three-dimensional velocity field. The method can also be used to directly evaluate the strain rate and vorticity components. The required smoothing to improve accuracy is shown to be robust, and continuity is satisfied. The errors associated with the method are estimated at less than 1 percent for velocity vector data and less than 5 percent for vorticity. The method has application in the analysis of turbulence data from three-dimensional particle imaging velocimetry.
Open reduction of C1-C2 subluxation with the use of C1 lateral mass and C2 translaminar screws.

OBJECTIVE Spinal cord compression secondary to a subluxation of one vertebral body over another can be achieved with reduction of the translational deformity. Intraoperative reduction of C1-C2 subluxations can be technically challenging when one uses traditional techniques (e.g., wiring and transarticular screw fixation). The popularization of C1 lateral mass and C2 pedicle screws has allowed surgeons to achieve a more complex realignment at this region of the spine. Control of both C1 and C2 with independent fixation can be used to obtain reduction. In certain instances, placement of C2 pedicle screws is not possible. The use of C2 translaminar screws (if the C2 lamina is present and suitable) is an alternative method of fixation in C2 and can be used for intraoperative reduction. CLINICAL PRESENTATION A 15-year-old boy with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis presented with spinal cord compression secondary to a C1-C2 subluxation. The C2 pedicle anatomy precluded safe placement of C2 pedicle screws. An alternative method of fixation with the use of C2 translaminar screws and reduction was performed to obtain proper alignment and decompress the spinal cord. TECHNIQUE C1 lateral mass screws and C2 translaminar screws are inserted in the usual fashion. Two contoured rods, two rod holders, and two distractors, combined with C1 lateral mass screws and C2 translaminar screws, were used to achieve reduction. Concomitant distraction between the C2 translaminar screw head and the rod holder resulted in ventral translation of C2 on C1, decompressing the spinal cord. The reduction was maintained by tightening the C2 locking nut onto the rod. CONCLUSION The use of C2 translaminar screws (if the C2 lamina is present and suitable) is an alternative method of fixation in C2. C1 lateral mass and C2 translaminar screw fixation provide a powerful means of reducing C1-C2 subluxations and maintaining alignment, achieving indirect decompression of the spinal cord.
The uncoupling of race and cancer genetics

The incidence of breast cancer is higher among white Americans than black Americans, but the mortality is significantly greater in blacks. One of the most common explanations for this discrepancy is that the biology or the genetics of African Americans and their tumors are different for whites. However, the argument that these differences are determined by genes is fundamentally flawed both on genetic and on social criteria. By using rough estimates of economic status and cancer stage, there is an approximate 12-30% residual difference in breast cancer mortality between the races that is not accounted for by measurable social factors. As Asians move to the United States, there is a dramatic increase in breast and prostate cancer and a reduction in nasopharyngeal carcinomas, all approaching those of the host society. This is strong evidence that the effects of race on cancer incidence and mortality are attributable mainly to social, environmental, and cultural/behavioral factors and that genetics are secondary. What is needed is a new mind set for dealing with race and cancer research. Race should be viewed as a surrogate to identify social and cultural subgroups whose genetic pools and environmental exposures may differ from the general population. Therefore, we may use race 1) as a tool to identify high risk individuals, 2) for targeted intervention to prevent disease, and 3) to uncover the important economic, cultural, and behavioral contributions to cancer outcome. In conclusion, biology and genetics are the basis for understanding the cancer cell, but socioeconomic issues, such as access to health care, are vitally important in the outcome of cancer patients.
Ehrenfest derivation of forces acting within semiconductors of inhomogeneous material composition

Abstract An Ehrenfest derivation for the forces within semiconductors of inhomogeneous material composition is provided. An illustrative 1-D analysis, under the extended Wannier-Slater approximation, is presented. Only two types of force are found to exist: one from charges constituting the semiconductor lattice, and the other from global inhomogeneities in free-carrier and ionized-impurity charge throughout the semiconductor. The so-called “entropy force” does not arise from our Ehrenfest analysis.
Applied Public Diplomacy: A Marketing Communications Exchange Program in Saudi Arabia

In late 2003 through 2004, the Saudi American Exchange conducted an exchange program, the Formula 1 Global Marketing Challenge. This program is presented in this article as an example of applied, grassroots public diplomacy; a program that facilitated intercultural communication between Arab and U.S. graduate and undergraduate students. The Formula 1 Challenge is described as a structured set of activities leveraging both online and in-person collaborative exercises focused explicitly on establishing mutual understanding of culturally grounded communication and media consumption practices. The program is argued to reflect a possible alternative conception for public diplomacy as a state-centric, media-driven set of policies—and reflects a public diplomacy exercise that embodies dialogue-oriented activities called for in normative prescriptions for U.S. public diplomacy.
Multimodal intensification therapy for previously untreated advanced resectable squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, oropharynx, or hypopharynx.

BACKGROUND An intensified treatment regimen for previously untreated Stage III and IV resectable oral cavity, oropharyngeal, or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma was analyzed to assess disease control, patient compliance, and toxicity. METHODS Forty three patients with previously untreated, advanced, resectable squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, oropharynx, or hypopharynx were enrolled in a prospective Phase II institutional clinical trial at a tertiary care comprehensive cancer center. This regimen was a continuum of multimodal treatment in a contracted time interval. It included preoperative slightly accelerated hyperfractionated radiotherapy with concurrent cisplatin, followed immediately with surgery and intraoperative radiotherapy, and completed with early postoperative weekly paclitaxel (beginning on Day 6 after surgery), two additional cisplatin cycles, and concurrent once daily radiotherapy beginning on Day 28 after surgery. RESULTS The current trial was designed to reduce the toxicity of the systemic therapy while maintaining or improving locoregional/distant disease control and patient compliance. There were 43 patients enrolled, and the range of time at risk was 2.6 to 24.7 months (median, 14.6 months). Of the 43 registered patients, 43 were evaluable. The locoregional (100%) and systemic (93%) disease control rates were excellent, with low rates of patient noncompliance (21%) and reduced levels of toxicity. CONCLUSIONS An intensive treatment regimen that improves disease control and treatment compliance is clearly feasible for this patient population. Future plans include modifications to continue to reduce toxicity and expansion to a multi-center Phase II trial to determine if the single institutional results can be duplicated. Cancer 2002;94:3169–78. © 2002 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.10571
Power spectrum of coherent Rayleigh-Brillouin scattering in carbon dioxide

We show in this note that, in the coherent Rayleigh-Brillouin scattering (CRBS) experiment [X. Pan, M. N. Shneider, and R. B. Miles, Phys. Rev. A 69, 033814 (2004)], the vibrational modes of the $\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ molecules are frozen. When the gas dynamic parameters are chosen accordingly, the model predicts a line shape that matches with the experimental data. Fitting the theoretical curve to the CRBS data represents a method to measure the speed of high-frequency sound, bulk viscosity, and the rotational relaxation time of molecular gases.
Transformation of the real estate function into a corporate strategic business partner

For the corporate real estate executive who is in the process of transforming the department to be a strategic business partner, this paper presents examples of initiatives used to ensure the workplace is aligned with the long‐term corporate strategy. This paper analyses the benefits of corporate real estate being viewed as a business partner in addition to a service provider.
Principles and design of Laue-case X-Ray interferometers

A theory of the interference mechanism in the Laue case interferometer is presented. Owing to the strong Borrmann effect a straightforward plane wave approach yields complete agreement with observed fringe patterns. The problem of coherence is discussed in some detail. It is shown that the geometrical precision of actual interferometers does not have to be better than 1 to 10 micron. The theory demonstrates that the “ideal” geometry can also be obtained with the transmission mirrors in different planes, allowing the construction of a modified interferometer with especially long and separated beam paths. This type is particularly suitable for practical interferometry.
A simple approach to supergravity

Abstract Supergravity is described in terms of Schwinger's formalism for Fermi-Bose transformations.
The New Markets for Renewable Identification Numbers

Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) were developed to act as tracking mechanisms that ensure compliance with the U.S. biofuel use mandates legislated in 2005 and increased and adjusted to include sub-mandates in 2007. Reviewing the rules for RIN production and use, we conclude that RIN prices will be hierarchical, and rollover provisions allow stock-holding. We illustrate our interpretation by constructing RIN supply and use tables, and by discussing how expiring tax credits and the specific tariff raise RIN prices and mandate costs. RIN markets are critical for estimating biofuel use mandate effects on biofuel and feedstock markets and welfare.