cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous neoplasms observed in cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) during a 15-year period

A total of 33 tumors were observed during a time period of 15 years (1992-2006) in cynomolgus monkeys. The great majority of neoplasms was benign (23 benign neoplasms versus 10 malignant tumors). Fourteen appeared in males and 19 in females. The age of tumor-bearing animals ranged between 2 years 2 months and 13 years 9 months. Most of the tumors (22) in the cynomolgus monkeys were seen in endocrine organs (adrenal cortical adenoma, adrenal hemangioma, C-cell carcinoma, follicular adenoma), respiratory system (nasal cavity adenoma, pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma, bronchio-alveolar carcinoma, bronchiolar papilloma, chondromatous hamartoma) and female genital system (uterine polyp, uterine adenoma, uterine leiomyoma and teratoma of the ovary). Four animals revealed malignant lymphoma infiltrating multiple organs.
IMPACT OF DRUG DEPENDENCY DURING PREGNANCY ON NEONATAL MORPHOMETRICS

The impact of maternal drug dependency on neonatal morphometrics was studied in 150 mother-infant and 150 concurrent control pairs. The maternal population included 121 methadone-maintained women, of whom 80 abused other drugs concomitantly; the remaining 29 women used multiple street drugs. Mean birth weight of the passively addicted neonates(PA)(2.80 kg ± 0.55) (SD) differed significantly from controls(C)(3.25 kg ± 0.59)(p<.001). Mean head circumference of PA infants(32.6 cm ± 1.8)also differed significantly from C(33.8 cm ± 1.7)(p < .001). Mean weight and head circumference of PA newborns fell at the 25th percentile for gestational age, differing from the C group value(50-75th percentile)(p<001). Mean gestational age(PA 38.9 wks ± 2.2 vs C 39.3 wks ± 2.3) and prematurity rates(10% PA vs 7% C)did not differ, but IUGR was increased to 20% in the PA group vs 4% C(P < .001). Within the PA group, selected perinatal variables of maternal age, parity, weight gain during pregnancy, polydrug abuse, methadone dosage, and duration of drug and alcohol use were not significantly associated with either birth weight or head circumference. This demonstration of symmetrical IUGR in PA infants and the known association of small head size at birth with reduced neurobehavioral outcome mandates greater concern for “optimal” methadone maintenance during pregnancy.
An Exploratory Framework for Combining CFD Analysis and Evolutionary Optimization Into a Single Integrated Computational Environment

Several recent reports and workshops have identified integrated computational engineering as an emerging technology with the potential to transform engineering design. The goal is to integrate geometric models, analyses, simulations, optimization and decision-making tools, and all other aspects of the engineering process into a shared, interactive computer-generated environment that facilitates multidisciplinary and collaborative engineering. While integrated computational engineering environments can be constructed from scratch with high-level programming languages, the complexity of these proposed environments makes this type of approach prohibitively slow and expensive. Rather, a high-level software framework is needed to provide the user with the capability to construct an application in an intuitive manner using existing models and engineering tools with minimal programming. In this paper, we present an exploratory open source software framework that can be used to integrate the geometric models, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and optimization tools needed for shape optimization of complex systems. This framework is demonstrated using the multiphase flow analysis of a complete coal transport system for an 800 MW pulverized coal power station. The framework uses engineering objects and three-dimensional visualization to enable the user to interactively design and optimize the performance of the coal transport system.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Conductivities of Three-Layer Human Skull

In this study, electrical conductivities of compact, spongiosum, and bulk layers of cadaver skull were determined at varying electric fields at room temperature. Current was applied and withdrawn over the top and bottom surfaces of each sample and potential drop across different layers was measured using the four-electrode method. We developed a model, which considers of variations in skull thicknesses, to determine the conductivity of the tri-layer skull and its individual anatomical structures. The results indicate that the spongiform and the two compact layers of the skull have significantly different and inhomogeneous conductivities ranging from 0.76 +/- .14 to 11.5 +/- 1.8 milliS/m.
The role of perceptual features vs. learned associations in utilizing directional indicators

Conclusions References • Replicates Posner & Snyder (1975): Stimuli are effective as primes • Stimuli point in direction of cap • Priming effectiveness: Arrows best, then dots, then ticks • Replicates maze study: Pointing ratings do not transfer in performance. Stimuli are treated as if they point toward the cap. • Participants used a keyboard to indicate if the dot appeared on the left or right side of the screen by pressing “A” or “6” on the number pad, respectively (to tap into Simon Interference)
Dual Regulation of Voltage-Sensitive Ion Channels by PIP2

Over the past 16 years, there has been an impressive number of ion channels shown to be sensitive to the major phosphoinositide in the plasma membrane, phosphatidilinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2). Among them are voltage-gated channels, which are crucial for both neuronal and cardiac excitability. Voltage-gated calcium (Cav) channels were shown to be regulated bidirectionally by PIP2. On one hand, PIP2 stabilized their activity by reducing current rundown but on the other hand it produced a voltage-dependent inhibition by shifting the activation curve to more positive voltages. For voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels PIP2 was first shown to prevent N-type inactivation. Careful examination of the effects of PIP2 on the activation mechanism of Kv1.2 has shown a similar bidirectional regulation as in the Cav channels. The two effects could be distinguished kinetically, in terms of their sensitivities to PIP2 and by distinct molecular determinants. The rightward shift of the Kv1.2 voltage dependence implicated basic residues in the S4-S5 linker and was consistent with stabilization of the inactive state of the voltage sensor. A third type of a voltage-gated ion channel modulated by PIP2 is the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channel. PIP2 has been shown to enhance the opening of HCN channels by shifting their voltage-dependent activation toward depolarized potentials. The sea urchin HCN channel, SpIH, showed again a PIP2-mediated bidirectional effect but in reverse order than the depolarization-activated Cav and Kv channels: a voltage-dependent potentiation, like the mammalian HCN channels, but also an inhibition of the cGMP-induced current activation. Just like the Kv1.2 channels, distinct molecular determinants underlied the PIP2 dual effects on SpIH channels. The dual regulation of these very different ion channels, all of which are voltage dependent, points to conserved mechanisms of regulation of these channels by PIP2.
"A theory of the incubation of anxiety-fear responses": an alternative.

Summary.-An alternative explanation of the extreme resistance to extinction common to operant avoidance paradigms is described. It is felt some inconsistencies in Eysenck's interpretation can be avoided. The term incubation has generally been used to refer to an increase in fear over a time interval following some fear-producing event. More recently Eysenck (1968) has taken the view that this phenomenon may be explained ". . . simply in terms of a reminiscence-type theory, based on consolidation of the memory trace . . ." (p. 309). In Eysenck's article, the term "incubation" is used to refer rather to . . . an increment in CR over a period of time when the CS is applied once or a number of times, but without reinforcement. Normally this procedure would give rise to exdnction; the fact that it may insread glve rise to an increment in the size of the CR (an increment which may be substaotlally larger than that which in control experiments follows paired CS/UCS exposures) makes the alternative explanations given of the "empry interval incubation" experiments inapplicable . . . (p. 310). In this article, the term "incubation" will be used in accordance with the latter definition.
Ten years after: examination of adolescent screening questions that predict future violence-related injury

Abstract Purpose: To determine which screening questions used in routine adolescent health care maintenance visits correlate with subsequent violence-related injury. Methods: A prospective cohort study was undertaken of adolescents initially seen at the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center (EBNHC) in 1986. Risk factor data were collected based on the adolescent health intake form in the medical records. The primary outcome measure, time until first violence-related injury was determined through identification on chart review of the treatment of any such injuries at the urgent care center at EBNHC in the subsequent 10 years. Kaplan–Meier survival statistics and Cox proportional hazards models were used to account for loss of patients to follow-up. Results: Median follow-up for this sample was >5 five years. Male gender, cigarette smoking, alcohol use, other drug use, poor relationships with parents, not being in school or failing school, and history of fighting in the past year, predicted violence-related injury within the follow-up period. The number of fights in the past year appeared to have a dose–response effect on risk of subsequent violence-related injury. A simple screening instrument consisting of items concerning school status, drug use, and fighting history was used to stratify youth into low, moderate, and high risk of violence-related injury during the follow-up period. Conclusions: These results suggest that a simple three-item screening instrument may be used to stratify the risk of future injury at the time of adolescent health maintenance visits. Further research is indicated to validate this finding in other populations. Interventions designed to assist adolescents who are not in school or who have drug use problems should also incorporate violence prevention strategies.
Unique Catalysis and Regioselectivity Observed in the Poly(C)-Directed RNA Dimer Formation from 2-MeImpG: Kinetic Analysis as a Function of Monomer and Polymer Concentration.

Polycytidylate, poly(C), serves as a scaffold or template to direct and catalyze the synthesis of long oligoguanylates from guanosine 5‘-phosphate 2-methylimidazolide, 2-MeImpG. In the absence of p...
Hsp47 and other ER-resident molecular chaperones form heterocomplexes with each other and with collagen type IV chains.

Collagen type IV is a genetically distinct secretory protein that constitutes a major component of the basement membranes. Despite the differences between collagen types I and IV, it appears that collagen IV α-chain translation/translocation through the ER should follow similar pathways to those established for procollagen I. Using a collagen IV-producing mouse teratocarcinoma cell line, we sought to determine if evolving nascent chains of collagen IV are associated with Hsp47 and other ER-resident molecular chaperones. We show that Hsp47, Grp78 and Grp94 appear to form heteromeric complexes associated with each other and with nascent chains of collagen IV. In addition, we investigated whether ATP depletion, a condition known to promote stable association of Grp78 and Grp94 proteins with their chaperone substrates, extended this response to include a chaperone independent of ATP, Hsp47. These studies reveal that ATP depletion increased the levels of newly synthesized collagen IV associated with Hsp47. Grp...
Retinoids and the Skin

Retinoids are a group of naturally occurring and synthetic compounds with vitamin A-like biological activity. They play an important role in vision, reproduction, growth, and epithelial cell differentiation. Recent discoveries of specific retinoid cellular binding proteins and nuclear receptors have led to a better (although not complete) understanding of the complex mechanisms of retinoid action. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of retinoids on skin diseases such as acne, psoriasis, ichthyoses, keratodermas, skin cancers and their precursors, as well as a reversal of the effects of photoaging.
Comparison of sex steroid receptor determinations in human breast cancer by enzyme immunoassay and radioligand binding

Most investigators comparing ligand-binding procedures for quantifying estrogen and progestin receptors in human breast cancer with procedures employing monoclonal antibody-based methods have utilized an inappropriate variety of reaction conditions, including the elimination of sodium molybdate in the steroid-binding assays. We studied 197 biopsies of human breast cancer, comparing the results of simultaneous measurements of both estrogen and progestin receptors in identical cytosols by enzyme immunoassay and by radioligand binding using the commercially available kits developed by Abbott Laboratories and by DuPont/NEN Products, respectively. Regression analyses comparing the results from the two procedures indicated a linear relationship, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.79 to 0.93 for both types of receptors over a wide range of data. Using the widely established cutoff value of 10 fmol/mg of cytosol protein for the ligand-binding method, and calculating sensitivity and specificity limits according to McNeil et al. (1975), an equivalent cutoff value of 15 fmol/mg of cytosol protein was determined for the enzyme immunoassay of these receptors. Endocrine status of the patient did not appear to alter the cutoff values of either estrogen or progestin receptors when determined by enzyme immunoassay. We recommend that these cutoff values be considered until the results of clinical correlations are completed.
Exploring the impact of the design of the physical classroom environment on young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

In 2010, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported a 1600% increase in the number of individuals between the ages of 6 and 22 years with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Knowledge about educational interventions for children with ASD is substantial; however, less is known about the design of supportive classroom environments where they learn. ASD experts believe that the early years in school, namely preschool through 6th grade, are critical in reaching children and establishing a foundation for their life-long learning and general well-being. In context of the human ecosystem theory that models the interaction between people and the natural, social and designed environments, this literature review of refereed sources (2000–2012) documented findings about interventions, that is, design criteria (DC) for incorporation into the physical classroom environment used by children with ASD. The majority of the studies was exploratory and presented DC that subsequently were not tested. Due to research method and/or sampling design, efficacy, reliability and validity of findings varied. Limited research (19 articles, 1 conference proceeding) addressing classroom DC leaves designers, teachers and school administrators substantially reliant on anecdotal information in terms of creating optimal learning environments to support inclusion of children with ASD. Additional research is needed to examine this critical design/human behaviour relationship via identification of evidence-based DC to guide classroom design solutions that support learning by children with ASD.
Electronic Densities of States from X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy.

In x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), a sample is exposed to low energy x rays (approximately 1 keV), and the resultant photoelectrons are analyzed with high precision for kinetic energy. After correction for inelastic scattering, the measured photoelectron spectrum should reflect the valence band density of states, as well as the binding energies of several core electronic levels. All features in this spectrum will be modulated by appropriate photoelectric cross sections, and there are several types of final-state effects which could complicate the interpretation further. In comparison with ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), XPS has the following advantages: (1) the effects of inelastic scattering are less pronounced and can be corrected for by using a core reference level, (2) core levels can also be used to monitor the chemical state of the sample, (3) the free electron states in the photoemission process do not introduce significant distortion of the photoelectron spectrum, and (4) the surface condition of the sample does not appear to be as critical as in UPS. XPS seems to be capable of giving a very good description of the general shape of the density-of-states function. A decided advantage of UPS at the present time, however, is approximately a fourfold higher resolution. We have used XPS to study the densities of states of the metals Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Os, Ir, Pt, and Au, and also the compounds ZnS, CdCl2, and HgO. The d bands of these solids are observed to have systematic behavior with changes in atomic number, and to agree qualitatively with the results of theory and other experiments. A rigid band model is found to work reasonably well for Ir, Pt and Au. The d bands of Ag, Ir, Pt, Au and HgO are found to have a similar two-component shape.
Design Concepts for Directed Exit Flow in Micro Fuel Cells

Miniature and micro fuel cells continue to advance as promising alternatives for efficient and portable electric power. This paper presents a study of experimental modifications to the exit flow configuration of microchannels used in small proton-exchange-membrane fuel cells. New concepts for exit geometry are presented, which promote effective water removal and provide reactant back-pressure in an efficient and self-contained manner. Cell assembly is designed such that reactants must necessarily flow laterally through the gas diffusion electrodes near the exit, rather than simply pass over the free backside surfaces of these electrodes. Multiple prototypes were produced using microfabrication techniques with channel sizes of 100 and 200 microns, and performance was tested using a hydrogen-air test station with programmable electronic load. One of the new concepts in particular showed a marked improvement from 28 mW/cm2 peak power density under baseline conditions to 37 mW/cm2 for the modified design under similar operating conditions. The design offers an opportunity for higher performance in miniature fuel cells with low gas consumption and no additional cost.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Test structures for delay variability

With continued technology scaling, yield loss due to timing variation is becoming a significant concern. In particular, random and systematic process variation in devices and interconnect results in variable delay and operating speed along different logic and signal paths; these variations can erode timing windows and ultimately contribute to circuit failure. In this work, a test structure methodology is developed to support the evaluation of process variation and its impact on circuit speed.A newly designed variation test chip enables relatively simple measurement and evaluation of timing variation resulting from process and layout-induced variation. First, the fundamental test structure is a nine-stage ring oscillator (RO); a frequency-divided readout of the RO frequency serves as a clearly defined measure of circuit speed. A large family of ring oscillator test structures has been designed, where each structure is made sensitive to a particular device or interconnect variation source. Front-end-of-line (FEOL) or device variation sensitive structures enable examination of channel length variation as a function of different layout practices, including gate length (finger width), spacing between multiple fingers, orientation (vertical or horizontal), and density of poly fill. Back-end-of-line (BEOL) or interconnect sensitive structures enable examination of variation in dielectric or metal thickness at different metal levels and impact on interconnect capacitance.The second key element of the test structure methodology is a scan-chain architecture enabling independent operation and readout of replicated ring oscillator test structures. In this second version test chip, designed and fabricated in $0.25 m technology, over 2000 ring oscillators per chip can be measured using simple digital control and readout circuitry interfaced to the packaged chip. The scan chain approach involves reading in a control word to each ring oscillator, which specifies if that oscillator is to operate and if the RO frequency is to be put onto an output bus into frequency division and output circuitry. Additional test chip design elements include separate ring oscillator and control logic power grids, so that the frequency dependence of the ring oscillators on power supply voltage can also be measured, enabling separation of channel length and threshold voltage variation contributions.A $0.25 µm version of the test chip has been fabricated, and measurement and statistical analysis of 35 chips have been successfully conducted. Results indicate that within-wafer variation continues to be larger than within-chip variation; however, systematic spatial patterns and layout-dependent variations within the chip are substantial and of particular concern in timing (which depends on matched signal delays across a chip or logic block). The test chip can be ported to other advanced technologies to provide information on layout-dependent and spatially-dependent process variation sources of timing variation, to aid in statistical timing analysis as well as help specify layout practices and design rules to minimize variation.
Synthesis and Insecticidal Activity of Novel Pyrazole Methanesulfonates

A model has been used to design novel pyrazole methanesulfonates. The pyrazole carboxamide methanesulfonates demonstrated insecticidal activity with low levels of acute mammalian toxicity. The amides formed from amines with α-branching (e.g. isopropyl and sec-butyl) demonstrated the highest level of activity. The model has also been used to design novel pyrazole sulfonamide methanesulfonates with very high levels of insecticidal activity. Most of the sulfonamides also possessed significant acute mammalian toxicity. Rice paddy field testing of the carboxamides on field population hoppers gave poor results.
Trends in chemical concentrations in mussels and oysters collected along the US coast: update to 2003.

Abstract With data from the annual analyses of mussels and oysters collected in 1986–1993 from sites located throughout the coastal United States [O’Connor, T.P., 1996. Trends in chemical concentrations in mussels and oysters collected along the US coast from 1986 to 1993. Mar. Environ. Res. 41, 183–200] showed decreasing trends, on a national scale, for chemicals whose use has been banned or has greatly decreased and that concentrations of most other chemicals were neither increasing nor decreasing. With data through 2003 those conclusions still apply. National median concentrations of synthetic organic chemicals and cadmium continue to decrease. The added data show that concentrations of lindane and high molecular weight PAHs are also decreasing on a national scale. For metals other than cadmium and zinc (in mussels), the added data reveal trends at more sites than in 1993 but no additional national trends. However, the longer time series has revealed several local and regional trends.
Paste Properties of Modified Starches from Partial Waxy Wheats

ABSTRACT Properties of modified starches from partial waxy wheats have not been examined. Protease digestion of cracked kernels of three hard winter wheats varying in amylose content led to 82–85% recovery of starch, whereas kneading of the flour-water doughs gave 75–83% recovery. All starches had a protein content of <0.3% and ash content of <0.01%. Granule size distributions showed that starch from Ike kernels contained 86% A-type granules with a peak size of ≈18μm, and Karl-92 starch contained 77% A-type granules with a peak size of ≈16μm. The A-type granules (82%) from Rio Blanco starch were intermediate in size. The amylose content of Karl-92 starch, determined by concanavalin-A precipitation of amylpectin, was 28%, which was 17% higher than that of Ike starch (23%). The amylose content of Rio Blanco starch was 26%. The lipid content of Karl-92 starch, determined as fatty acid methyl esters, also was 18% higher than that of Ike starch (601 vs. 488 mg/100 g of starch, respectively). Wheat starches wer...
Simultaneous EEG-fMRI Reveals Temporal Evolution of Coupling between Supramodal Cortical Attention Networks and the Brainstem

Cortical and subcortical networks have been identified that are commonly associated with attention and task engagement, along with theories regarding their functional interaction. However, a link between these systems has not yet been demonstrated in healthy humans, primarily because of data acquisition and analysis limitations. We recorded simultaneous EEG–fMRI while subjects performed auditory and visual oddball tasks and used these data to investigate the BOLD correlates of single-trial EEG variability at latencies spanning the trial. We focused on variability along task-relevant dimensions in the EEG for identical stimuli and then combined auditory and visual data at the subject level to spatially and temporally localize brain regions involved in endogenous attentional modulations. Specifically, we found that anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) correlates strongly with both early and late EEG components, whereas brainstem, right middle frontal gyrus (rMFG), and right orbitofrontal cortex (rOFC) correlate significantly only with late components. By orthogonalizing with respect to event-related activity, we found that variability in insula and temporoparietal junction is reflected in reaction time variability, rOFC and brainstem correlate with residual EEG variability, and ACC and rMFG are significantly correlated with both. To investigate interactions between these correlates of temporally specific EEG variability, we performed dynamic causal modeling (DCM) on the fMRI data. We found strong evidence for reciprocal effective connections between the brainstem and cortical regions. Our results support the adaptive gain theory of locus ceruleus–norepinephrine (LC–NE) function and the proposed functional relationship between the LC–NE system, right-hemisphere ventral attention network, and P300 EEG response.
Are the lapdogs starting to bark? Japanese newspaper coverage of the SDF mission to Iraq:

Japanese media coverage is popularly portrayed as being closely tied to the ruling elite through the operation of kisha clubs where access to government sources and close government—journalist—busi...
All-fiber dynamic residual dispersion compensation for 40-Gb/s systems

Dynamic dispersion compensation based on non-linear self-phase modulation (SPM) in an all-fiber device is demonstrated. The basic design of the compensator is very simple, consisting only of a pre-compensating negative dispersion fiber, an optical amplifier, and a highly non-linear positive dispersion fiber. Multiple channel operation of the compensator is feasible and experimentally demonstrated. An increase of dispersion tolerance of at least a factor of 2 is shown with low penalty of less than 2 dB. Finally, device performance in a 2000 km fiber loop experiment is presented.
The molecular biology of lymphoma.

Objectives To review the current state of knowledge of the molecular biology of lymphoma, the clinical relevance of findings, and the implications for practice. Data Sources Published research articles, proceedings of conferences, and oncology textbooks. Conclusions The molecular biology of lymphomas has been the subject of many research studies in the past two decades. New cytogenetic techniques have led to a wealth of information on lymphomagenesis and its impact on the diagnosis, prognosis, and management of lymphoma, which will continue into the next decade. Implications for Nursing Practice An understanding of the molecular biology of lymphoma will assist cancer nurses in providing current, state-of-the-art patient education and will facilitate an understanding of newly developed methods in the prognosis and treatment of this malignancy.
Observations of carbon export by small sinking particles in the upper mesopelagic

Abstract Carbon and nutrients are transported out of the surface ocean and sequestered at depth by sinking particles. Sinking particle sizes span many orders of magnitude and the relative influence of small particles on carbon export compared to large particles has not been resolved. To determine the influence of particle size on carbon export, the flux of both small (11–64 μm) and large (> 64 μm) particles in the upper mesopelagic was examined during 5 cruises of the Bermuda Atlantic Time Series (BATS) in the Sargasso Sea using neutrally buoyant sediment traps mounted with tubes containing polyacrylamide gel layers and tubes containing a poisoned brine layer. Particles were also collected in surface-tethered, free-floating traps at higher carbon flux locations in the tropical and subtropical South Atlantic Ocean. Particle sizes spanning three orders of magnitude were resolved in gel samples, included sinking particles as small as 11 μm. At BATS, the number flux of small particles tended to increase with depth, whereas the number flux of large particles tended to decrease with depth. The carbon content of different sized particles could not be modeled by a single set of parameters because the particle composition varied across locations and over time. The modeled carbon flux by small particles at BATS, including all samples and depths, was 39 ± 20% of the modeled total carbon flux, and the percentage increased with depth in 4 out of the 5 months sampled. These results indicate that small particles (
Thermochromism of Model Organic Aerosol Matter

Laboratory experiments show that the optical absorptivity of model organic matter is not an intrinsic property, but a strong function of relative humidity, temperature, and insolation. Suites of representative polyfunctional CxHyOz oligomers in water develop intense visible absorptions upon addition of inert electrolytes. The resulting mixtures reach mass absorption cross sections σ(532 nm) ∼ 0.1 m2/gC in a few hours, absorb up to 9 times more solar radiation than the starting material, can be half-bleached by noon sunlight in ∼1 h, and can be repeatedly recycled without carbon loss. Visible absorptions red-shift and evolve increasingly faster in subsequent thermal aging cycles. Thermochromism and its strong direct dependences on ionic strength and temperature are ascribed to the dehydration of >CH−C(OH) C═C< unsaturations by a polar E1 mechanism, and bleaching to photoinduced retrohydration. These transformations are deemed to underlie the daily cycles of aerosol absorption observed in the ...
Oxygen Atom Adsorption on and Diffusion into Nb(110) and Nb(100) from First Principles

To understand the dynamics of oxidation of Nb, we examine the adsorption, absorption, and diffusion of an oxygen atom on, in, and into Nb(110) and Nb(100) surfaces, respectively, using density functional theory. Our calculations predict that the oxygen atom adsorbs on the threefold site on Nb(110) and the fourfold hollow site on Nb(100), and the adsorption energy is −5.08 eV and −5.18 eV, respectively. We find the long and short bridge sites to be transition states for O diffusion on Nb(110), while the on-top site is a rank-2 saddle point. In the subsurface region, the oxygen atom prefers the octahedral site, as in bulk niobium. Our results show also that the O atom is more stable on Nb(110) subsurface than on Nb(100) subsurface. The diffusion of oxygen atoms into niobium surfaces passes through transition states where the oxygen atom is coordinated to four niobium atoms. The diffusion barriers of the oxygen atom into Nb(110) and Nb(100) are 1.81 eV and 2.05 eV, respectively. An analysis of the electronic density of states reveals the emergence of well-localized electronic states below the lowest states of clean Nb surfaces due to d–p orbital hybridization.
Expression of Thy-1 and effect of phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C on primate and murine cell lines☆

Abstract BALC/c mice were immunized with isolated human brain Thy-1. The antisera at an appropriate dilution only reacted with a doublet of an apparent molecular weight (MW) around 25,000 among all the glycoproteins of brain tissue isolated by lentil lectin affinity chromatography when tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblotting. When the antisera were used to test a number of human cell lines and a marmoset T-cell line (70N2) by flow cytometry, an astrocytoma cell line (U-373), a T-lymphoblastoid cell line (MOLT-3), and two cutaneous T-lymphoma cell lines (HUT-7 8 and HUT-102) as well as the 70N2 cells were stained. However, a B-lymphoma cell line (Raji), a plasmacytoma cell line (HMy2), and normal peripheral blood lymphocytes were negative. When the positive cells were treated with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C, a significant decrease in both stain intensity and percentage of positive cells was demonstrated by immunofluorescence. Although Thy-1 expression in human lymphoid system is currently thought to be confined in early T- and B-lymphocyte development, our data suggest that well-differentiated T cells with mature phenotypes such as HUT-78 and HUT-102 which may be considered as tumor counterparts are also capable of expressing Thy-1, presumably after certain stimulation.
Acceleration techniques for the direct use of CAD-based geometry in fusion neutronics analysis

The Direct Accelerated Geometry Monte Carlo (DAGMC) software library offers a unique approach to performing neutronics analysis on CAD-based geometries of fusion systems. By employing a number of acceleration techniques, the ray-tracing operations that are fundamental to Monte Carlo radiation transport are implemented efficiently for direct use on the CAD-based solid model, eliminating the need to translate to the native Monte Carlo input language. By forming hierarchical trees of oriented bounding boxes, one for each facet that results from a high-fidelity tessellation of the model, the ray-tracing performance is adequate to permit detailed analysis of large complex systems. In addition to the reduction in human effort and improvement in quality assurance that is found in the translation approaches, the DAGMC approach also permits the analysis of geometries with higher order surfaces that cannot be represented by many native Monte Carlo radiation transport tools. The paper describes the various acceleration techniques and demonstrates the resulting capability in a real fusion neutronics analysis.
Inactivation by visible light of yeast sensitized by a nucleic acid fluorochrome.

PRECISE and reproducible survival curves have previously been obtained for haploid and diploid yeast irradiated with X-rays and with ultra-violet light1,2. Similar curves have now been obtained for the inactivation by visible light of yeast cells sensitized with the fluorescent diaminoacridine dye, acridine orange (3,6-bis-dimethylaminoacridine).
Eluent composition effect on ion chromatographic determination of oxyanions in solutions equilibrated with soils

Methods based on simultaneous determination of oxy-anions in soil extracts are needed for studies of competitive adsorption of oxyanions by soils. We studied the effect of NaHCO3/Na2CO3 and NaOH/Na2CO3 concentrations on ion chromatographic (IC) determination of PO 4 3− , AsO 4 3− , SeO 4 2− , SeO 3 2− , WO 4 2− , and MoO 4 2− in a 10-mM NaCl matrix equilibrated with soils by using a Dionex 2002i IC unit. The eluent, 6.0 mM NaOH+4.5 mM Na2CO3, resolved the 10 mM Cl− from the six oxyanions. Elution times for Cl−, SeO 3 2− , SO 4 2− , NO 3 − , SeO 4 2− , PO 4 3− , WO 4 2− , MoO 4 2− , and AsO 4 3− were 1.7, 2.7, 5.2, 6.1, 7.8, 10.5, 14.3, 17.7, and 21.2, respectively. The recovery of 0.2-mM oxyanion standards added to the soil solutions ranged from 93.0 to 106.8%, with coefficients of variation ranging from 0 to 14.3%. The detection limits of the oxyanions studied ranged from 0.3 μM for SeO 3 2− to 9.0 μM for AsO 4 3− .
Symmetry of mandibular muscle activity as an index of coordinative strategy

Electromyographic activity of bilateral mandibular muscle pairs in humans was studied during several tasks: mastication, voluntary oscillation of the jaw, and speech production, as a replication an...
Indirectly encoding neural plasticity as a pattern of local rules

Biological brains can adapt and learn from past experience. In neuroevolution, i.e. evolving artificial neural networks (ANNs), one way that agents controlled by ANNs can evolve the ability to adapt is by encoding local learning rules. However, a significant problem with most such approaches is that local learning rules for every connection in the network must be discovered separately. This paper aims to show that learning rules can be effectively indirectly encoded by extending the Hypercube-based NeuroEvolution of Augmenting Topologies (HyperNEAT) method. Adaptive HyperNEAT is introduced to allow not only patterns of weights across the connectivity of an ANN to be generated by a function of its geometry, but also patterns of arbitrary learning rules. Several such adaptive models with different levels of generality are explored and compared. The long-term promise of the new approach is to evolve large-scale adaptive ANNs, which is a major goal for neuroevolution.
Distributed scheduling of wireless networks: A message passing approach

We consider the problem of scheduling wireless networks with stochastic packet arrivals on the links and constant transmission rates. We propose a scheduling policy based on solving a Maximum Weighted Independent Set (MWIS) problem at each time slot on a conflict graph that incorporates all the interference constraints. Due to the computational difficulty of solving the MWIS on general graphs, we design a novel, low-complexity and distributed two-phase algorithm which solves the linear programming relaxation of the MWIS and then constructs a feasible solution to the original problem. We show that the two-phase algorithm always produces a maximal schedule for general networks, thus, achieving network stability. Numerical results show that our scheduling policy achieves significantly smaller aggregate long-run average queue lengths than some state-of-the-art scheduling algorithms.
Stages in the Development of Economic Concepts

This paper examines the development of economic concepts from a Piagetian cognitive-developmental perspective. Clinical interviews are used to investigate the economic concepts of children between the ages of 4 and 12. The main objective of the research is to determine the extent to which conceptual development in this area is compatible with the Piagetian hypothesis of discrete stages in the formation of social consciousness. The findings of the study are generally consistent with the Piagetian view that knowledge develops through a sequence of qualitative cognitive stages. The existence of these stages suggests that the development of social knowledge must be viewed as a process in which the child is actively engaged in the construction of social meanings, rather than being the passive recipient of meanings presented through immediate experience or the instruction of adults.
In vitro digestion methods for assessing the effect of food structure on allergen breakdown

This article reviews the in vitro digestion models developed to assess the stability of food allergens during digestion. It is hypothesised that food allergens must exhibit sufficient gastro-intestinal stability to reach the intestinal mucosa where absorption and sensitisation (development of atopy) can occur. The investigation of stability of proteins within the gastrointestinal tract may provide prospective testing for allergenicity and could be a significant and valid parameter that distinguishes food allergens from nonallergens. Systematic evaluation of the stability of food allergens that are active via the gastrointestinal tract is currently tested in traditional pepsin digestibility models. The human gastrointestinal tract however is very complex and this article points out the importance of using physiologically relevant in vitro digestion systems for evaluating digestibility of allergens. This would involve the simulation of the stomach/small intestine environment (multi-phase models) with sequential addition of digestive enzymes, surfactants such as phospholipids and bile salts under physiological conditions, as well as the consideration of the effect of the food matrices on the allergen digestion.
Brittle smiles: positive biases toward stigmatized and outgroup targets

We examined individuals' tendencies to exaggerate their positive responses toward stigmatized others (i.e., overcorrect) and explored how overcorrection, because of its fragile nature, could be disrupted. The first 2 studies demonstrate overcorrection: White participants paired with Black partners (Experiment 1A) smiled, laughed, and showed more positive behavior than those paired with same-race partners. Experiment 1B replicated the general effect with a physically stigmatized sample (i.e., facial birthmarks) and then demonstrated that overcorrection is moderated by bias; participants who exhibited more positive behavior toward their partner showed the most physiological "threat" during a stressful task with their partner. We then examined the idea that if overcorrection requires cognitive resources and is effortful, then it may be fragile when resources are taxed. In Experiments 2 and 3, we observed that overcorrection was easily disrupted when resources were compromised (e.g., with stress or cognitive load). Taken together, these studies suggest that positive biases toward stigmatized and outgroup members are fragile and can be undermined when resources are taxed.
Obstructive sleep apnea and psychomotor vigilance task performance

Author(s): Batool-Anwar, Salma; Kales, Stefanos N; Patel, Sanjay R; Varvarigou, Vasileia; DeYoung, Pamela N; Malhotra, Atul | Abstract: BackgroundObstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent disorder with considerable morbidity and mortality. Vigilance and attentiveness are often impaired in OSA patients. In occupational medicine settings, subjective reports of sleepiness are notoriously inaccurate, making the identification of objective measures of vigilance potentially important for risk assessments of fitness for duty. In order to evaluate the effects of OSA on attentiveness and vigilance, we conducted a cross-sectional study to examine the association between OSA and psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) performance.MethodsPatients attending sleep clinics for evaluation of possible sleep apnea were recruited. The subjects underwent either a standard overnight laboratory polysomnography or home sleep study. Subjective daytime sleepiness was assessed by Epworth sleepiness scale, and vigilance was tested using a portable device. The participants were asked to respond to the PVT signals using their dominant hand. Each PVT administration lasted 10 minutes, with stimuli signals appearing randomly at variable intervals of 2-10 seconds.ResultsMean age of the participants was 46±15 years, and mean body mass index was 34.3±9.8 kg/m(2). Participants with higher Epworth scores had worse PVT performance (Pl0.05). In multivariate analyses, age, body mass index, and poor sleep efficiency (measured by Pittsburgh sleep quality index score) were associated with worse PVT performance (Pl0.05). In contrast, PVT performance did not differ significantly across categories of apnea hypopnea index severity. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that women had worse performance on all PVT measures (Pl0.05).ConclusionPVT performance can be utilized for risk assessments of sleepiness and may be particularly useful among populations where subjective reports are unreliable.
Neuromodulation in pediatrics

Several neuromodulatory options are available for selected children who have voiding dysfunction resistant to conventional therapy. Integral to all types of treatment is an educated team that reinforces progress rather than cure and encourages long-term behavioral changes.
Characterization of Unbound Phenytoin Concentrations in Neurointensive Care Unit Patients Using a Revised Winter-Tozer Equation

BACKGROUNDPrior studies examining the accuracy of the Winter-Tozer (WT) equation for correcting total phenytoin concentrations in critically ill patients have yielded conflicting results and are limited by small sample sizes and stringent exclusion criteria, which lessen external validity.OBJECTIVETo determine whether the traditional WT equation is appropriate in correcting total phenytoin concentrations in a large sample of patients in a neurointensive care unit (NICU) and whether a new equation may be more predictive.METHODSIn a retrospective study, NICU patients with reports of a concurrent total and unbound phenytoin concentration and albumin level were analyzed. Two new predictive equations were generated using a revised WT equation and regression model of baseline and laboratory characteristics. Prediction error analysis using a 20% validation cohort was conducted on all 3 equations for comparison.RESULTSA total of 140 adults were included for data analysis, with data on 80% used for derivation and ...
Minding the Gap

"Bridging the semantic gap" is an expression often used to describe work on multimedia content understanding. At best, research today is bridging a semantic gap, of which there are many. Better characterizing the overall size and shape of the semantic space for multimedia will help define what is on the other side and ensure that we make progress on bridging the gap.
Outcome following single-stage repair of coarctation with ventricular septal defect

Objective: A recent multi-institutional study suggested improved survival (97%) after staged repair of coarctation with ventricular septal defect (VSD) compared with single-stage repair. The current study was undertaken to determine outcome and need for reintervention following single-stage repair of coarctation and VSD at our institution. Methods: Retrospective review of patients undergoing single-stage repair of coarctation with VSD between October 1, 1994 and August 15, 1999. Results: Single-stage repair of coarctation with VSD was performed in 25 infants (12 males, 13 females) at a median age of 12 days (range 1‐87 days) and median weight of 3.3 kg (range 1.3‐4.4 kg). The VSD was conoventricular in ten patients, malalignment type with posterior deviation of the infundibular septum in ten, muscular in four and conal septal hypoplasia in one. Arch hypoplasia was present in all patients and bicuspid aortic valve in 13. At least moderate subaortic narrowing was present in six patients (secondary to prolapse of tricuspid valve tissue across the VSD in four). Repairs were performed via a median sternotomy with a mean circulatory arrest time of 38 ^ 12 min. Overall patient survival was 96% with one operative death and no late deaths at a median follow-up of 16 months (range 1‐50 months). Reinterventions included balloon dilatation of recurrent coarctation (five), closure of residual VSD (one) and Ross‐Konno procedure (two). Actuarial freedom from reintervention for the hospital survivors was 81% (95% confidence limit (CL) 61%, 92%) at 6 months, 71% (95% CL 47%, 87%) at 1 year and 59% (95% CL 31%, 82%) at 2 years following surgery. Conclusion: Single-stage repair of coarctation with VSD can be performed with low operative mortality and good midterm survival equivalent to reported results for staged repair. q 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.