cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An active optical frequency reference using a pulsed superradiant laser

We will describe a next-generation active atomic frequency reference based on super-radiant pulses of laser light from the ultra-narrow, 1 mHz linewidth, optical clock transition in an ensemble of cold 87Sr atoms. Light is stimulated from the millihertz linewidth transition by confining an ensemble of laser cooled atoms inside of a high finesse optical cavity. Such a light source has been proposed as a next-generation active atomic frequency reference, with the potential to enable high-precision optical frequency references to be used outside laboratory environments. We achieve a remarkable short term fractional frequency stability, 6.7 × 1016 at 1 s of averaging, absolute accuracy, 2 Hz (4 × 1015 fractional frequency), and high insensitivity to changes in the cavity length that limits the performance of todays more stable lasers. We will also discuss current work on cavity-enhanced dispersive measurements to perform high resolution spectroscopy and atom counting.
TRANS ESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAM DETECTS TRIPLE THREATS (ATHEROMA, PATENT FORAMEN OVALE AND LARGE LAMBL'S EXCRESCENCE): A CASE OF RECURRENT EMBOLIC STROKE OF UNDETERMINED SOURCE

The majority of (87%) of strokes are due to ischemic etiology and cardio embolic stroke account for 15-40% of cases. A transesophageal echocardiography is performed to identify potential embolic sources and guide therapy. 61 Year old female with past medical history of hypertension, tobacco abuse,
Clinical features of migraine and other headache disorders.

INTRODUCTION While the best recognized manifestation of migraine is headache, not all headaches presenting to physicians are migraine, and migraine disorder is not just a headache. Migraine is a complex and not fully understood process of cerebral dysfunction associated with a variety of symptoms uniting cortical depolarization, brainstem dysfunction, meningeal vasodilatation and excitation of sensory pain structures as remote as the cervical nucleus caudalis. This gives rise to the often seen myriad of symptoms, seeming somewhat disparate in this common disorder. I will attempt to explain at least some of the known and less well-known aspects of this fascinating disorder, including pathogenesis, management and treatment. I will also briefly discuss some of the lesserknown and often misdiagnosed headache syndromes.
Therapeutic studies with a new combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin topical gel in acne vulgaris.

Three independent clinical studies were conducted in more than 1250 patients with moderate to moderately severe acne vulgaris to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new combination gel that stably combines 5% benzoyl peroxide and 1% clindamycin. The results indicated that the benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin combination product was an effective treatment for reducing the inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions of acne vulgaris. In overall improvement as rated by the physicians and patients, the combination gel was superior to clindamycin alone, and in 2 of the 3 studies, to benzoyl peroxide alone. The antimicrobial activity of the combination gel was significantly (each P < .01) superior to that seen with topical application of its individual constituents, 5% benzoyl peroxide or 1% clindamycin, and was numerically better than that found with topical application of a 5% benzoyl peroxide/3% erythromycin combination product. As with benzoyl peroxide, dry skin was the most frequent side effect with use of the combination gel, with isolated incidences of other localized irritation. No other safety or tolerability concerns were identified.
Fatal Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation and Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Due to Anti-Ena

Abstract Background: Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) caused by warm IgG antibodies is usually characterized by IgG-mediated extravascular hemolysis and anemia that develops slowly. We report a case of AIHA presenting with sudden massive intravascular hemolysis and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), similar to that seen following an ABO incompatible transfusion reaction. Case Report: A 71-year-old female had a 4-year history of immune thrombocytopenic purpura requiring splenectomy 1 ½ years ago. Six weeks prior to admission, in association with a viral infection, her platelet (plt) count fell from 350,000/mm3 to 150,000/mm3 over 2 weeks. She was treated with oral prednisone, and one week prior to admission her platelet count was 200,000/mm3. Two days before admission she noted reddish urine. Laboratory studies at her doctor's office showed hemoglobin (Hb) 9 g/dL (had been 13 g/dL 1 week earlier) and bilirubin (bili) 9 mg/dL. On the day of admission, in the emergency department, she complained of generalized weakness, jaundice, and near-syncope. She became increasingly agitated and dyspneic and was intubated. At that time laboratory studies showed Hb 4.5 g/dL, LDH >2,500 U/L, haptoglobin 7 mg/dL, total bili 13.0 mg/dL, indirect bili 11.8 mg/dL, D-dimers >10,000 ng/dL, plts 139,000/mm3, prothrombin time 18.3 seconds, fibrinogen 166 mg/dL, fibrin monomers were positive. She was admitted to the medical intensive care unit with a diagnosis of DIC and hemolysis. The patient's RBCs were coated with IgG (4+) and C3 (3+); IgM and IgA were not detected. Her plasma and an eluate contained an antiglobulin test reactive autoantibody with anti-Ena specificity (anti-Pr and -Wrb were excluded), an antibody directed at epitopes on glycophorin A. No alloantibodies were detected in the patient's plasma. The patient was treated with IV steroids and received multiple RBC transfusions over the first few hospital days. Her Hb stabilized at 10 g/dL. The day after admission, she became oliguric and required dialysis throughout her hospital course. Over the next several days, additional signs and symptoms of DIC were noted: ischemic digits and toes, elevated Troponin I, partial thromboplastin time, D-dimers and decreased plt count. She was placed on intravenous heparin. Gastrointestinal bleeding developed and heparin was discontinued on hospital day 9. One week later, the onset of abdominal pain necessitated exploratory laparotomy which revealed ischemic bowel with perforation; vessels showed organized thrombi with recanalization. She remained critically ill and died on hospital day 25. Conclusion: Complement-mediated intravascular hemolysis in a patient with AIHA due to anti-Ena was associated with renal failure and DIC leading to death of the patient. All of these, even separately, are unusual in warm AIHA. We know of no reports where all 5 events (intravascular lysis, anti-Ena, renal failure, DIC, and death) occurred in one patient.
We Joined Others Who Were Poor: the Young Lords, the Black Freedom Struggle, and the “Original” Rainbow Coalition

This article examines the role that the modern Civil Rights and Black Power Movements played in shaping Puerto Rican organizing in the U.S., namely the evolution of the Young Lords of Chicago and the creation of the “Original” Rainbow Coalition.
Temperature anomalies affect violent conflicts in African and Middle Eastern warm regions

Abstract Several studies have linked high temperatures to increases in violent conflicts. The findings are controversial, however, as there has been no systematic cross-sectional analysis performed to demonstrate the generality of the proposed relationship. Moreover, the timescale of temperature/violence relationships have not been fully investigated; it is unclear how short versus long-term, or seasonal and inter-annual temperature variability contribute to the likelihood or frequency of violent events. We here perform systematic regional and grid-based longitudinal analyses in Africa and the Middle East for the period 1990–2017, using geolocated information on armed conflicts and a recently released satellite-based gridded temperature data set. We find seasonal synchrony between temperature and number of armed conflicts at the regional scale (climatic region), as well as a positive relationship in temperature and conflict anomalies on inter-annual timescales at the grid cell level (for the entire African and ME region). After controlling for ‘location effects’, we do not find that long-term warming has affected armed conflicts for the last three decades. However, the effects of temperature anomalies are stronger in warmer places (~5% increase per 10 °C, P
Cannabidiol (CBD): Perspectives from Pinterest.

Pinterest, a widely used social media platform, has shaped how people seek and share health information. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis is marketed as a treatment for m...
Glucose unit index (GUI) of permethylated glycans for effective identification of glycans and glycan isomers

Retention time is the most common and widely used criterion to report the separation of glycans using Liquid Chromatography (LC), but it varies widely across different columns, instruments and laboratories. This variation is problematic when inter-laboratory data is compared. Furthermore, it influences reproducibility and hampers efficient data interpretation. In our endeavor to overcome this variance, we propose the use of the Glucose Unit Index (GUI) on C18 and PGC column-based separation of reduced and permethylated glycans. GUI has previously been utilized for retention time normalization of native and labeled glycans. We evaluated this method with reduced and permethylated glycans derived from model glycoproteins fetuin and ribonuclease B (RNase B), and then implemented it to human blood serum to generate C18 and PGC column-based isomeric glycan libraries. GUI values for glycan compositions were calculated with respect to the glucose units derived from dextrin, which was employed as an elution standard. The GUI values were validated on three different LC systems (UltiMate 3000 Nano UHPLC systems) in two laboratories to ensure the reliability and reproducibility of the method. Applicability on real samples was demonstrated using human breast cancer cell lines. A total of 116 permethylated N-glycans separated on a C18 column and 134 glycans separated on a PGC column were compiled in a library. Overall, the established GUI method and the demonstration of reproducible inter- and intra-laboratory GUI values would aid the future development of automated glycan and isomeric glycan identification methods.
Profilin's Affinity for Formin Regulates the Availability of Filament Ends for Actin Monomer Binding.

Abstract Nucleation-promoting proteins tightly regulate actin polymerization in cells. Whereas many of these proteins bind actin monomers directly, formins use the actin-binding protein profilin to dynamically load actin monomers onto their flexible Formin Homology 1 (FH1) domains. Following binding, FH1 domains deliver profilin-actin complexes to filament ends. To investigate profilin’s role as an adaptor protein in formin-mediated elongation, we engineered a chimeric formin that binds actin monomers directly via covalent attachment of profilin to its binding site in the formin. This formin mediates slow filament elongation owing to a high probability of profilin binding at filament ends. Varying the position at which profilin is tethered to the formin alters the elongation rate by modulating profilin occupancy at the filament end. By regulating the availability of the barbed end, we propose that profilin binding establishes a secondary point of control over the rate of filament elongation mediated by formins. Profilin’s differential affinities for actin monomers, barbed ends and polyproline are thus tuned to adaptively bridge actin and formins and optimize the rate of actin polymerization.
Compute-Centric Networking At The Edge: An Autonomous Driving Use-Case

This paper highlights the benefits of information-centric networking (ICN) and its named data networking (NDN) architecture for future edge computing applications in a multi-tenant multi-stakeholder ecosystem. We consider an exemplary scenario of autonomous driving to discuss open issues for efficient and timely distributed compute-centric networking. We discuss what NDN has to offer for efficient and resilient edge computing, and what needs to be done to augment NDN to move from an information-centric architecture to a compute-centric architecture. Based on the autonomous driving scenario, we identify security, naming, networking challenges, and discuss the different options to tackle these challenges and propose potential solutions.
Biodistribution studies of radio-quantum dots in tumor bearing mice

235 Objectives To quantitatively evaluate the biodistribution of novel CdTeSe/109CdZnSe radio quantum dots (rQDs). These rQDs are novel and would mimic the biodistribution of native QDs because the radioisotope is incorporated into the QD’s structure, as opposed to being chemically chelated. Methods We synthesized near-infrared rQDs, coated with a zwitterionic DHLA ligand, to demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating the radiolabel into the rQDs’ structure. We studied the in vivo biodistribution of the rQDs by i.v. injection into Colo-205 tumor bearing nude mice. Tissues were harvested at various time points, between 5 minutes and 168 hours (n=3 mice/time point). The percent injected dose per gram (%ID/g) value was calculated. The near-infrared fluorescent signal from the rQDs was characterized by multi-spectral imaging. Results The calculated blood half-life was 22±2 hours while notable accumulation of the rQDs was seen in the liver (31.9±3.1 %ID/g at 168 hours) and spleen (7.1±0.8 %ID/g at 168 hours). Even at 48 hours post injection, 9.0±1.2 %ID/g of rQDs was available in the blood, demonstrating bioavailability of these non-targeted rQDs. Notable retention of the rQDs was seen in the tumor (5.1±0.58 %ID/g) at 48 hours post injection, possibly due to the enhanced permeability and retention effect. Measurable fluorescent signal was achieved with non-toxic concentrations of the rQDs in mice. Conclusions This work demonstrates the concept of in vivo quantitation of rQDs incorporating a radioisotope in the nanopraticle lattice, thereby providing a more direct measurement of the core/shell structure. The 22 hour blood half-life indicates that zwitterionic coating effectively reduces scavenging by the mononuclear phagocyte system. Further investigation will characterize zwitterionic ligand coated probes with different Zeta potentials as well as incorporating different imaging/ therapeutic radioisotopes and targeting molecules
Learning, slowly unfolding disasters, and asset prices

Abstract We develop a model that generates slowly unfolding disasters not only in the macroeconomy but also in financial markets. In our model, investors cannot exactly distinguish whether the economy is experiencing a mild/temporary downturn or is on the verge of a severe/prolonged disaster. Due to imperfect information, disaster periods are not fully identified by investors ex ante. Bayesian learning induces equity prices to gradually react to persistent consumption declines, which plays a critical role in explaining the VIX, variance risk premium, and put-protected portfolio returns. We show that our model can rationalize the market patterns of recent major crises, such as the dot-com bubble burst, Great Recession, and COVID-19 crisis, through investors' belief channel.
Reoperative phalangeal and metacarpal fracture management

The phalangeal or metacarpal fracture that has undergone previous surgery but resulted in nonunion, malunion, or posttraumatic arthritis can be particularly challenging. These fingers are usually stiff and sometimes painful to the patient. Besides the bone injury, there are usually soft-tissue problems that complicate the reconstructive efforts. For the PIP and MCP joints, arthroplasty and fusion remain as options for posttraumatic reconstruction. The use of osteotomies can be helpful addressing rotational or angular deformities. Hemi-hamate arthroplasty is a novel and useful technique for salvaging the failed unstable PIP fracture dislocation. Ultimately, if the digit cannot be reconstructed or if the digit becomes chronically stiff and painful, some patients will elect to have amputation as their final surgery to try and restore functionality to the hand and in order to get on with their lives.
Confederate Rage, Yankee Wrath: No Quarter in the Civil War

Review of: "Confederate Rage, Yankee Wrath: No Quarter in the Civil War," by George S. Burkhardt.
Energy Equivalent Expansion

This paper deals with the overlapping decomposition and expansions of a mechanical systems, such as flexible space structures, to simplify the decentralized control design. The approach suggested herein is to develop an expanded model which preserves the kinetic and potential energy of the original system. The resulting expanded system also maintains the symmetry in the model. Such an expanded system being non-unique, a constructive procedure is provided to produce an expanded system to yield subsystems with least interaction via a 2-norm minimization problem. Hence, the local control designs based upon the subsystems would be more justifiable.
A model for baryogenesis in superstring unification

Abstract The problem of baryogenesis is studied in superstring unification with intermediate gauge symmetry breaking. Baryon number asymmetry may be generated by the decay of the coherent Higgs field which is produced by the phase transition associated with the intermediate gauge symmetry breaking. It will be possible to obtain an appreciable baryon number asymmetry if certain phenomenological conditions are satisfied for the model parameters.
Similarity, Equivalence Testing, and Discrimination Theory

This chapter discusses equivalence testing and how difference tests are modified in their analyses to guard against Type II error (missing a true difference). Concepts of test power and required sample sizes are discussed and illustrated. An alternative approach to equivalence, namely interval testing is introduced along with the concept of paired one-sided tests. Two theoretical approaches to the measurement of the size of a difference are introduced: discriminator theory (also called guessing models) and the signal detection or Thurstonian models.
Making sense of literary aging: Relevance of recent gerontological theory.

Abstract Literature provides rich resources for interpretations of the meaning of aging in cross-cultural and historical circumstances. A theoretically informed understanding of such literature should be rooted in contextual understanding of literature as an art form, including considerations of style, genre, intentions of authors, and of audiences; an awareness of perspectives of analysts; and explanatory frameworks drawn from gerontology. Early theories in gerontology focus on the individual level, taking structure as a given. Second generation models—modernization and age stratification—focus on structure excluding the individual. Recent frameworks, namely political economic approaches cognizant of intentionality, and structurally informed social psychological perspectives, address the confluence of individual and structural factors. A hermenutic-dialectical framework incorporates the dynamic interplay between structural factors, individual meaning-giving and action. To illustrate, five brief vignettes from cross-cultural literature are analyzed, drawing on recent gerontological theory. A hermeneutic-dialectical approach to literature provides a forum for debate, research, and theory-building, rather than an overarching model of aging in cross-cultural context.
Lay Conceptions of Physical Symptoms1

This research uses multidimensional scaling (MDS) and cluster analysis to investigate the cognitive dimensions used by lay people in responding to physical symptoms. Fifty-eight adult subjects sorted 60 physical symptoms according to perceived co-occurrence. MDS analysis of these sortings revealed four dimensions: caused by a virus, upper vs. lower in the body, physical vs. psychological causation, and disruptive to activities. These dimensions were in turn significantly related to predicted behavioral responses to symptoms. Disruptiveness of the symptom was closely related to reduction in activities while both viral causation and disruptiveness were related to self-care (use of nonprescription medicines or home remedies). Physical vs. psychological causation and location in the lower part of the body were related to the use of professional care (visiting a doctor, using a prescription medicine). Results from cluster analyses supported and extended these findings.
The Otto Aufranc Award: Identification of a 4 Mb Region on Chromosome 17q21 Linked to Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip in One 18-member, Multigeneration Family

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a disabling condition that, depending on geography, can afflict between 20% and 80% of patients with end-stage arthritis of the hip. Despite its prevalence, the etiology of this disease remains unknown. DDH is a complex disorder with both environmental and genetic causes. Based on the literature the candidate genes for the disease are HOXB9, collagen type I α1, and DLX 3. The purpose of our study was to map and characterize the gene or genes responsible for this disorder by family linkage analysis. We recruited one 18-member, multigeneration affected family to provide cheek swabs and blood samples for isolation of DNA. Amplified DNA underwent a total genome scan using GeneChip Mapping 250 K Assay (Affymetrix, Santa Clara, CA). We observed only one region with a LOD score greater than 1.5: a 4 Mb region on chromosome 17q21.32, yielding a LOD score of 1.82. While a LOD score of 1.82 does not meet the accepted standard for linkage we interpret these data as suggesting the responsible gene could be linked to this region, which includes a cluster of homeobox genes (HOX genes) that are part of the developmental regulatory system providing cells with specific positional identities along the developing joint and spine. Discovering the genetic basis of the disease would be an important step in understanding the etiology of this disabling condition.
FaST-LMM-Select for addressing confounding from spatial structure and rare variants

A recent report by Mathieson and McVean showed that confounding in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) resulting from spatially structured populations in conjunction with rare variants could not be corrected by currently available statistical genetics methods.
Vid28 Protein Is Required for the Association of Vacuole Import and Degradation (Vid) Vesicles with Actin Patches and the Retention of Vid Vesicle Proteins in the Intracellular Fraction

Gluconeogenic enzymes are induced when Saccharomyces cerevisiae are starved of glucose. However, when glucose is added to prolonged starved cells, these enzymes are degraded in the vacuole via the vacuole import and degradation (Vid) pathway. The Vid pathway is linked to the nonclassical secretory and internalizing pathways. In prolonged starved cells, substantial amounts of the key gluconeogenic enzyme fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) are in the extracellular fraction (periplasm). However, when glucose is added to glucose-starved cells, levels of extracellular FBPase decrease rapidly. Ultrastructural studies indicate that FBPase is in Vid/endosomes following glucose addition, suggesting that FBPase is internalized in response to glucose refeeding. Under the same conditions, the majority of Vid vesicle proteins are in the intracellular fraction. In yeast, actin polymerization is involved in endocytosis. Vid vesicles associate with actin patches initially, and they dissociate later. Here, we show that VID28 plays a critical role in the association of Vid vesicles with actin patches and the retention of Vid vesicle proteins in the intracellular fraction. Vid28p was distributed to Vid vesicles and interacted with other Vid vesicle proteins. Vid28p contains an Armadillo (ARM) domain required for FBPase degradation. When VID28 was deleted or when the ARM domain was mutated, Vid vesicles failed to co-localize with actin patches, and Vid vesicle proteins appeared in the extracellular fraction. We suggest that the ARM domain is required for the association of Vid vesicles with actin patches and the retention of Vid vesicle proteins in the intracellular fraction.
Modeling monthlong slow slip earthquakes

[1] The slow crawl of the Earth's tectonic plates is periodically punctuated by the release of decades or centuries of accumulated stress. Standard earthquakes, lasting from fractions of a second to minutes in duration, are known to range from imperceptible to those that can flatten a city, but recent geodetic measurements have led to the discovery of a previously unrecognized style of fault slip—episodic slow earthquakes. These slow earthquakes recur roughly annually, involve a weeklong or monthlong speeding up of a plate's motion by a factor of 10—100, and are associated with low-level seismic tremors. First detected about 10 years ago in Japan and western North America, they occur along the same faults that produce devastating magnitude 9 earthquakes but at greater depths. How and why slow earthquakes differ from regular earthquakes, and the extent to which they might foreshadow the shallower truly great earthquakes, are currently topics of wide interest. (Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems, doi:10.1029/2010GC003386, 2011)
Electrochemical properties of V2O5 thin films deposited by spin coating

The electrochemical properties of V2O5 thin films prepared by spin coating on indium tin oxide coated glass substrates using metalorganic, organic and inorganic sol–gel precursors have been investigated. The stoichiometry of the films was found to depend on the carbon to vanadium ratio in the precursors with a larger carbon content leading to a higher non-stoichiometry. The structural properties of the films were investigated by X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Raman and UV–vis spectroscopy. The non-stoichiometry of the films was investigated by measuring the red shift in the shortest VO bond vibrational frequency between vanadium and terminal oxygen, which is consistent with the observation of planar defects in HRTEM-micrographs. The electrochemical studies by cyclic voltametry indicate that the Li+ intercalation capacity and Li+ diffusion coefficient are increased by an order of magnitude in the non-stoichiometric film, which may significantly improve the properties of vanadium oxide films as a cathode material for Li-ion batteries.
Observations of Mesoscale Effects on Frontal Movement Through an Urban Area

Abstract Data obtained from the extensive mesoscale anemometer network established during the New York University Urban Air Polution Dynamics Program were used to study the effects of New York City on frontal movement. Frontal position and movement were determined using sequential hourly streamline and isotach analyses of the flow through the New York City metropolitan area. Results showed that frontal movement during nonheat-island periods was retarded significantly over the entire central urban area. The retardation was probably due to the increased surface frictional drag exerted on the front by the increased surface roughness of the city as compared to that of its surrounding environs. During periods with well-developed urban heat islands, the results showed a retardation in frontal speed over the upwind half of the city, followed by a significant acceleration of the front over its downwind half.
Inhibition of auxin transport by isoquinolinedione herbicides

2-(p-carbethoxyphenyl)-1,3(2H,4H)-isoquinolinedione (CEPIQ), an experimental herbicide, caused effects on geotropism, which are often indicative of an effect on auxin transport, in a whole plant herbicidal screen. However, it showed little or no activity in an in vitro binding assay in corn coleoptiles for the auxin-transport inhibitor,N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA). Other active isoquinolinedione analogues of this compound did, however, exhibit significant in vitro activity. Direct measurements of auxin transport in corn coleoptiles were undertaken in an attempt to resolve the apparent discrepancy between herbicidal and binding activities. In all cases examined, compounds that were highly active on whole plants were good inhibitors of auxin transport, and compounds that were weak as herbicides showed little or no effect on auxin transport. Therefore, it is concluded that the mode of action of these isoquinolinedione herbicides is the inhibition of auxin transport. Ring-opened analogues of several isoquinolinediones were synthesized and assayed in both the transport and binding assays, in order to test whether compounds in this class express their herbicidal activity by undergoing ring-opening in vivo, yielding products that are more straightforward analogues of NPA with free carboxyl groups. The homophthalamic acids had little or no activity in both assays. On the other hand, thep-ethyl- andp-ethoxy-phenyl phthalamic acids showed auxin transport inhibition comparable to the parent isoquinolinediones, but with markedly increased binding activity. These results support the possible role of ring-opening in the generation of biological activity. However, thep-carbethoxyphenyl phthalamic acid, analogous to CEPIQ, was very weak in both assays. Thus, ring-opening in vivo cannot alone account for the biological activity of this class of compounds.
Synthesis of β-D-galactosidase after F-duction of lac+ genes into Escherichia coli

The induced level of β -galactosidase directed by an F lac + episome derived by reversion from F lac z s − is about twice the amount of enzyme synthesized under the control of the same z + gene on the chromosome, suggesting that there are two functional copies of the F lac + episome per nucleus. Soon after the introduction of lac + genes of Escherichia coli into lac + bacteria by F lac + transfer, the rate of β -galactosidase synthesis is directly proportional to the mass increase of the culture. Lac + cells usually increase as a constant fraction of the recipient population. Certain exceptions reflect peculiar properties of the recipient strains. The differential rate of enzyme synthesis in the rnerozygotes corresponds closely to the specific activity of β -galactosidase in F lac + heterogenotes, an indication that soon after F-duction the F lac + episome achieves the status it has in an established F lac + strain, without undergoing extensive replication. There is no significant level of β -galactosidase synthesis in i+z − /F i − z + merozygotes in the absence of inducer.
Redox modulation of human prostate carcinoma cells by selenite increases radiation-induced cell killing.

Abstract Although selenium compounds have been extensively studied as chemopreventative agents for prostate cancer, little is known about the potential use of selenium compounds for chemotherapy. We have shown that selenite inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis in androgen-dependent LAPC-4 prostate cancer cells. LAPC-4 cells were more sensitive to selenite-induced apoptosis than primary cultures of normal prostate cells. Selenite-induced apoptosis in LAPC-4 cells correlated with a decrease in the Bcl-2:Bax expression ratio. Selenite-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis are dependent upon its reaction with reduced GSH. LAPC-4 cells treated with selenite showed decreased levels of total GSH and increased concentrations of GSSG. Thus, selenite altered the intracellular redox status toward an oxidative state by decreasing the ratio of GSH:GSSG. Because increased levels of Bcl-2 and GSH are associated with radioresistance, we examined the ability of selenite to sensitize prostate cancer cells to γ-irradiation. Both LAPC-4 and androgen-independent DU 145 cells pretreated with selenite showed increased sensitivity to γ-irradiation as measured by clonogenic survival assays. Importantly, selenite-induced radiosensitization was observed in combination with a clinically relevant dose of 2 Gy. These data suggest that altering the redox environment of prostate cancer cells with selenite increases the apoptotic potential and sensitizes them to radiation-induced cell killing.
Decision-Making in Energy Systems With Multiple Technologies and Uncertain Preferences

Energy systems are complex systems consisting of different decision making entities: policy makers (or system operators), generation companies, utility companies, and consumers. In this paper, the focus is on the decisions made by different market competitors, such as the energy generation companies (GENCOs) and their interactions with the policy makers. The goals of the independent system operators (ISOs) in a deregulated market are to minimize the policy cost and to maximize renewable energy penetration. The problem formulation presented in this paper is aimed toward helping the ISO in modeling the lower-level GENCOs' decision problems. GENCOs compete in energy production, while maximizing their net present values and minimizing their capital investments. The market players' decisions result in a lower-level market equilibrium problem, which is formulated as a complementarity problem. The existence and uniqueness of the solution for the lower-level problem are shown. The main aims of the paper are to study the effect of stakeholders' preferences on the solution of the complementarity problem, to analyze the effect of the ISO's design parameters on the generation equilibrium quantities, and to simulate the stochastic complementarity problem using different techniques. The applications of the proposed decision-making framework include computational modeling of policy design scenarios, such as in feed-in-tariff policies.
A sensitive assay for the quantification of morphine and its active metabolites in human plasma and dried blood spots using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Opioids such as morphine are the cornerstone of pain treatment. The challenge of measuring the concentrations of morphine and its active metabolites in order to assess human pharmacokinetics and monitor therapeutic drugs in children requires assays with high sensitivity in small blood volumes. We developed and validated a semi-automated LC-MS/MS assay for the simultaneous quantification of morphine and its active metabolites morphine 3β-glucuronide (M3G) and morphine 6β-glucuronide (M6G) in human plasma and in dried blood spots (DBS). Reconstitution in water (DBS only) and addition of a protein precipitation solution containing the internal standards were the only manual steps. Morphine and its metabolites were separated on a Kinetex 2.6-μm PFP analytical column using an acetonitrile/0.1% formic acid gradient. The analytes were detected in the positive multiple reaction mode. In plasma, the assay had the following performance characteristics: range of reliable response of 0.25–1000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.99) for morphine, 1–1,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.99) for M3G, and 2.5–1,000 ng/mL for M6G. In DBS, the assay had a range of reliable response of 1–1,000 ng/mL (r2 > 0.99) for morphine and M3G, and of 2.5–1,000 ng/mL for M6G. For inter-day accuracy and precision for morphine, M3G and M6G were within 15% of the nominal values in both plasma and DBS. There was no carryover, ion suppression, or matrix interferences. The assay fulfilled all predefined acceptance criteria, and its sensitivity using DBS samples was adequate for the measurement of pediatric pharmacokinetic samples using a small blood of only 20–50 μL.
IN-HOME CONSUMER EVALUATIONS OF FOUR LAMB RETAIL CUTS

An in-home lamb study evaluated ratings from lamb consumers as influenced by cut (blade chop, rib chop, loin chop or leg chop), preparation method (indoor/outdoor grill, broil/oven roasted, pan-broil/pan-fry or other), and degree of doneness (medium rare or less, medium, medium well or more). Consumers in Dallas and Houston, Texas (n = 60 households) evaluated each cut for Overall-like (OLIKE), Tenderness (TEND), Juiciness (JUIC), Flavor Intensity (IFLAV), and Flavor Desirability (DFLAV) using 10-point scales (10 = extreme like, extremely tender, extremely juicy, extremely intense, and extremely desirable; 1 = extreme dislike, extremely tough, extremely dry, extremely bland, and extremely undesirable). No two-way or three-way interactions were observed between cut, preparation method and degree of doneness. Type of cut influenced (P < 0.05) palatability as consumers gave rib and loin chops higher ratings than chops from the blade or leg for OLIKE, TEND, JUIC, and DFLAV. Preparation method tended (P = 0.0565) to influence IFLAV with pan-broiled/pan-fried chops receiving higher ratings than grilled chops or chops cooked using “other” methods. Degree of doneness affected (P < 0.05) JUIC and tended (P = 0.0639) to affect TEND with chops that were cooked to lower degrees of doneness rated higher. Correlation data showed that OLIKE was highly correlated with TEND (r = 0.82), DFLAV (r = 0.82), and JUIC (r = 0.76), but did not have a strong relationship with IFLAV (r = 0.25). This information provides some insight into factors driving consumer evaluations of lamb.
Pineal weight response to a dietary variable in Microtus montanus.

Le regime de controle (alimentation de laboratoire des lapins) deMicrotus montanus a ete augmente de plantes vertes. La glande pineale des animaux recevant le supplement eut un poids inferieur a celui de la glande des temoins (p<0,01).
The effects of carbohydrate-enriched meals on glucose turnover and metabolic clearance rates of glucose in type 2 diabetic patients.

The addition of fructose to natural meals elicits lower serum glucose and immunoreactive insulin responses when compared with that of sucrose and starch meals. Differences in rates of splanchnic glucose appearance and peripheral glucose disposal may be partly responsible. To evaluate the role of both parameters after different carbohydrate-enriched meals, we measured the arterialized venous blood glucose, immunoreactive insulin and gastric inhibitory polypeptide concentrations in seven Type 2 diabetic patients after ingestion of isocaloric test meals. Measurements were made in a random manner on three separate occasions. Fructose, sucrose, and bread supplementation constituted 68% of the total carbohydrate content of each meal. Rates of total glucose appearance, glucose utilization and metabolic clearance rates of glucose were determined by the D3-H-3glucose prime-continuous infusion technique. The mean fasting glucose levels were similar in the three groups. Mean peak glucose concentrations and integrated incremental areas were significantly lower (p < 0.02) after the fructose-enriched meals compared with that of either sucrose or bread. The basal arterialized venous blood glucose levels were similar in all three groups. The mean incremental integrated arterialized venous blood glucose area was significantly lower in the fructose group when compared with the sucrose (p < 0.05) and bread (p < 0.02) groups. The mean fasting gastric inhibitory polypeptide levels were similar in the three groups. However, the mean incremental integrated gastric inhibitory polypeptide areas were significantly lower in the fructose group compared with the sucrose and bread groups (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05 respectively). Basal hepatic glucose outputs were not significantly different in the three groups. After each test meal ingestion, the rate of total glucose appearance was lowest for the fructose group, intermediate for the bread group and highest for the sucrose group. However, the metabolic clearance rate did not change from the baseline despite variable arterialized venous blood glucose responses after each test meal. We conclude that the differences in glycaemic responses after carbohydrate-enriched meals cannot be ascribed solely to differences in peripheral glucose disposal in Type 2 diabetic patients. Rather, the rates of total splanchnic glucose output appear to determine the ultimate glycaemic responses after different carbohydrate-enriched meals in Type 2 diabetic patients.
Experimental and numerical investigation of a shock wave impingementon a cylinder

This paper presents an experimental study and a numerical simulation of the impingement of an oblique shock wave on a cylinder. The investigation was undertaken to attain two goals. The first goal was to experimentally investigate and document the complex three-dimensional shock wave and boundary-layer interaction occurring in practical problems, such as the shock-wave impingement from the Shuttle nose on an external fuel tank, and store interference on a supersonic tactical aircraft. The second goal was to carry out a comparison of experimental measurements and numerical computations of such complex flows. The experimental results revealed a complex flowfield with two separation zones, regions of cross flow, reflected shocks, and expansion fans. The numerical predictions agreed surprisingly well with the measured results, both on the surface and in the flowfield. However, some important flow details, such as the size and extent of the separation, and the reflected shock-wave system, were not predicted.
A hardware implementation of the discrete Pascal transform for image processing

The discrete Pascal transform is a polynomial transform with applications in pattern recognition, digital filtering, and digital image processing. It already has been shown that the Pascal transform matrix can be decomposed into a product of binary matrices. Such a factorization leads to a fast and efficient hardware implementation without the use of multipliers, which consume large amounts of hardware. We recently developed a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) implementation to compute the Pascal transform. Our goal was to demonstrate the computational efficiency of the transform while keeping hardware requirements at a minimum. Images are uploaded into memory from a remote computer prior to processing, and the transform coefficients can be offloaded from the FPGA board for analysis. Design techniques like as-soon-as-possible scheduling and adder sharing allowed us to develop a fast and efficient system. An eight-point, one-dimensional transform completes in 13 clock cycles and requires only four adders. An 8x8 two-dimensional transform completes in 240 cycles and requires only a top-level controller in addition to the one-dimensional transform hardware. Finally, through minor modifications to the controller, the transform operations can be pipelined to achieve 100% utilization of the four adders, allowing one eight-point transform to complete every seven clock cycles.
Clinical and hematological manifestations of hemoglobin CS disease in children.

D u R I N C the past decade many genetically determined variants of human hemoglobin have been discovered, and the relation of inherited abnormalities in hemoglobin synthesis to clinical disease has become of increasing interest and importance in many disciplines of medicine. The most frequently encountered abnormal hemoglobins in this country are.Hgb. S and Hgb. C which are found principally in members of the Negro race. The gene responsible for Hgb. S synthesis occurs in approximately 9 per cent of American Negroes and the one responsible for Hgb. C synthesis is present in approximately 3 per cent of our Negro population? These abnormal genes may be inherited in heterozygous combination with the gene for normal adult hemoglobin, Hgb. A, resulting in the combination Hgb. AS (sickle cell trait) or Hgb. AC (hemoglobin C trait), in the homozygous corabinations Hgb. SS (sickle cell anemia) or Hgb. CC (hemo-
Path integral renormalization for quantum dissipative dynamics with multiple timescales

The reduced density matrix of a system coupled to a harmonic dissipative bath can be obtained accurately using an iterative path integral methodology that involves a propagator tensor, whose rank is roughly equal to the number of time steps that span the bath-induced memory. The present work shows that even in situations where the bath is characterized by high-frequency modes (which necessitate a small time step) and slow oscillators (which give rise to very long memory), efficient propagation that takes into account the memory on all time scales is feasible by renormalizing the propagator matrix to include successively larger-length influence functional correlations. At its crudest level, the renormalized propagator is an ordinary matrix, thus the computational demands of the method are very modest, similar to those for propagating the bare system. Yet, test applications on dissipative two-level systems show that the method produces accurate results in demanding situations. By including memory on success...
Changes in tissue sensitivity associated with varying life situations and emotions; Their relevance to allergy

I T IS the purpose of this paper to present further evidence on three points: (I) that man reacts adaptively or protectively in similar ways to a variety of noxious stimuli ; (2) that he may react to threats or symbols of assault as though they were assaults; and (3) that consequently it may be difficult to ascertain what aspects of a total situation are really relevant to the observed reactions of the individual. In particular, ingested chemical agents and foods may sometimes take on special significance not dependent on their chemical or physical structure. The study of cutaneous vascular reactions in patients with urticaria, reported in detail elsewhere,l is illustrative. Thirty subjects, 17 women and 13 men, who had had repeated attacks of hives or whose present attack had lasted for 3 weeks or longer, were studied. In each case a relatively complete life history was obtained, with particular reference to an understanding of the setting in which the first and subsequent attacks occurred. An important part of such understanding was a knowledge of the patient’s feelings about the situation and his general behavior with respect to it. Note was made of foods ingested and of exposure to other substances which might conceivably have acted as allergens. It was found that there was an almost invariable relationship between an attitude of a particular kind and attacks of urticaria. The patients considered themselves wronged or injured and felt that they could do nothing to improve the situation. No correlation between exposure to allergens and attacks of the disease was discovered. In an experimental setting, and following suitable control observations, significant events known to have been associated in the past with outbreaks of hives were brought up for discussion and dwelt on for several minutes. The experiment concluded with a period of strong reassurance and diversion. During the entire experiment measurements of cutaneous vascular reactions were carried out. All of the patients were seen to flush when topics of significant personal concern evoking resentment were discussed. Measurement revealed that at such times there was decrease in tonus of the minute vessels (capillaries and venules) and dilatation of arterioles. In 5 cases, urticarial lesions appeared during stressful interviews. Fig. 1 illustrates a typical experiment. Lewis2 pointed out that dilatation of minute vessels and of arterioles, respectively, was responsible for the first two elements of the “triple response, ” the red reaction and the flare. The third factor, increased vascular permeability
Pilot study of secondary prevention of posttraumatic stress disorder with propranolol

Abstract Background: Preclinical considerations suggest that treatment with a β-adrenergic blocker following an acute psychologically traumatic event may reduce subsequent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. This pilot study addressed this hypothesis. Methods: Patients were randomized to begin, within 6 hours of the event, a 10-day course of double-blind propranolol (n = 18) versus placebo (n = 23) 40 mg four times daily. Results: The mean (SD) 1-month Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) score of 11 propranolol completers was 27.6 (15.7), with one outlier 5.2 SDs above the others' mean, and of 20 placebo completers, 35.5 (21.5), t=1.1, df=29, p=.15. Two propranolol patients' scores fell above, and nine below, the placebo group's median, p=.03 (sign test). Zero of eight propranolol, but six of 14 placebo, patients were physiologic responders during script-driven imagery of the traumatic event when tested 3 months afterward, p=.04 (all p values one-tailed). Conclusions: These pilot results suggest that acute, posttrauma propranolol may have a preventive effect on subsequent PTSD.