cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular phylogeny informs generic and subgeneric concepts in the Schizoptera Fieber genus group (Heteroptera : Schizopteridae) and reveals multiple origins of female-specific elytra

Wing dimorphism occurs in many genera of Schizopteridae Reuter, 1891 and other litter bugs (Heteroptera : Dipsocoromorpha), in both males and females. In the largest litter bug genus, Schizoptera Fieber, and closely related taxa, sexual wing dimorphism is observed in several species whereby males are macropterous, but females possess elytra, or hardened forewings – a feature that is rare outside of beetles and that we here refer to as female-specific elytra. Phylogenetic hypotheses for Schizoptera are unavailable, but are essential to reveal if female-specific elytra evolved once or multiple times within the genus and to test if the presence of elytra can reverse states to macropterous wings. In addition, generic and subgeneric concepts of this speciose genus-group have not been tested in a phylogenetic framework, and relationships with other schizopterid genera remain largely unknown. Our molecular phylogeny of Schizoptera and related genera documents that this genus is currently polyphyletic, and we raise the subgenus Kophaegis to generic rank to render Schizoptera monophyletic (Orthorhagus was recently elevated to genus). Relationships within Schizoptera reveal several well supported clades, some of them corresponding to currently recognised subgenera. To examine the value of previously used diagnostic features, we optimise 11 morphological characters on the molecular phylogeny and update generic and subgeneric diagnoses. Tracing transitions between macropterous and elytrous wing types, we show that female-specific elytra evolved at least seven times within Schizopteridae, four of those times within the Schizoptera genus-group, and that elytra reversed to macropterous wings at least twice. We propose that Schizopteridae may be an excellent model to study the selective pressures that have given rise to sexually dimorphic traits.
Winter diet of Bobolink, a long-distance migratory grassland bird, inferred from feather isotopes

ABSTRACT Effective conservation of migratory bird populations depends on advancements in our understanding of processes throughout the life cycle. Fundamental information about wintering ecology (e.g., habitat use and diet composition) remains limited, which limits assessment of threats to populations during winter. Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) is a year-round grassland obligate and Nearctic-Neotropical migrant that undergoes 2 complete molts each year, including a complete prealternate molt on the South American wintering grounds. This unusual winter molt provides a rare opportunity to examine, using stable isotope analysis, the timing and contribution of foraging resources in the Bobolink diet prior to northbound migration from disparate breeding populations. We compared winter diet composition among 3 breeding populations of Bobolinks and during 3 stages of winter molt using stable carbon isotope ratios. We used mixing models to compare the ratio of carbon-12 to carbon-13 isotope (δ13C value) in fe...
In-flight icing on unmanned aerial vehicle and its aerodynamic penalties

A numerical prediction of ice accretion on HQ309, SD7032, and SD7037 airfoils and its aerodynamic penalties is described. Ice accretion prediction on a three-dimensional (3D) swept wing is also presented. In addition to airflow and drop trajectory solvers, NRC's (National Research Council) original, 3D, morphogenetic icing modeling approach has been used. The analysis was performed for a wide range of icing conditions identi¦ed in the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) Appendix C icing envelope. They cover a range of drop sizes, air temperatures, and liquid water contents. For selected icing conditions, the resulting decrease in lift and increase in drag have been calculated.
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing reveals subclinical abnormalities in chronic kidney disease.

Background Reductions in exercise capacity associated with exercise intolerance augment cardiovascular disease risk and predict mortality in chronic kidney disease. This study utilized cardiopulmonary exercise testing to (a) investigate mechanisms of exercise intolerance; (b) unmask subclinical abnormalities that may precede cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease. Design The design of this study was cross-sectional. Methods Cardiopulmonary exercise testing was carried out in 31 Stage 3-4 chronic kidney disease patients (60 ± 11 years; estimated glomerular filtration rate 43 ± 13 ml/min/1.73 m2) and 21 matched healthy individuals (healthy controls; 56 ± 5 years; estimated glomerular filtration rate>90 ml/min/1.73 m2) on a cycle ergometer with workload increased by 15 W every minute until volitional fatigue. Breath-by-breath respiratory gas analysis was performed with an automated gas analyzer and averaged over 10 s intervals. Results Peak oxygen uptake was reduced in chronic kidney disease compared to healthy controls (17.43 ± 1.03 vs 28 ± 2.05 ml/kg/min; p < 0.01), as was oxygen uptake at the ventilatory threshold (9.44 ± 0.53 vs15.55 ± 1.34 ml/kg/min; p < 0.01). A steeper minute ventilation rate/carbon dioxide production slope (32 ± 0.8 vs 28 ± 1; p < 0.01) and a lower expired carbon dioxide pressure in chronic kidney disease (27 ± 0.6 vs 31 ± 0.9 vs 0.9; p < 0.01) indicated ventilation perfusion mismatching in these patients. The ventilatory cost of oxygen uptake was higher in chronic kidney disease (37 ± 0.8 vs 33 ± 1; p < 0.01). Maximum heart rate (134 ± 5 vs 159 ± 3 bpm) and one-minute heart rate recovery (15 ± 1 vs 20 ± 2 bpm) were reduced in chronic kidney disease ( p < 0.01). Conclusion This study suggests that both central and peripheral limitations likely contribute to reduced exercise capacity in non-dialysis chronic kidney disease. Additionally, cardiopulmonary exercise testing revealed subclinical cardiopulmonary abnormalities in these patients in the absence of overt cardiovascular disease. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing could potentially be a tool for unmasking cardiopulmonary abnormalities preceding cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease.
An Innovative In Situ Spectroscopic Approach to Characterize Functional Groups in Natural Organic Matters (NOMs) and Their Interactions with Protons and Metals

Differential absorbance spectroscopy (DAS) was used in this study as an in situ approach to characterize the functional groups in natural organic matters (NOMs) with respect to their conformational change at varying pHs and interactions with metal ions. Suwannee River fulvic acid (SRFA) was profiled by DAS as the feature bands of phenolic groups evolved at wavelengths of 244 nm and 330–380 nm and a peak signifying carboxylic groups at 280 nm. Water treatment process (e.g., chlorination) altered the properties of functional groups, as could be reflected by DAS profiles. Furthermore, NOM-calcium interactions were investigated using nonideal competitive adsorption (NICA) model to describe the specific binding of calcium ions to NOMs. Correlations between the observed changes in the intensity of the representative DAS features as well as spectral slopes of NOM showed that these parameters were strongly correlated with the amount of NOM-bound calcium. The result suggested that the NICA-Donnan model could be expanded to reflect and predict the true diversity of NOM groups engaged in interactions with metal cations in biogeochemical and engineering systems.
On the feasibility of automatically detecting and recovering from SEUs in cyber-physical space systems

The past decade has seen explosive growth in the use of small satellites. As these small, typically short-lived and risk-tolerant platforms are increasingly adopted for spaceflight missions, there has been a growing trend to place more responsibility on the flight software (versus hardware) and an increasing adoption of consumer-grade microprocessors to satisfy this desire for increased processing capability while still minimizing size, weight, and power parameters. These consumer-grade processors, however, are more susceptible to cosmic radiation and the occurrence of single event upsets (SEUs). In this paper, we present an initial exploration into the feasibility of implementing automated detection and recovery mechanisms to mitigate SEUs within these cyber-physical spaceflight systems.
A Convergence of Visuals: Geospatial and Open Source Analysis in Human Rights Documentation

This chapter describes how visuals collected through remote sensing technologies, such as satellites or cell phones, play an increasingly important role in human rights investigations. The author provides several case studies, showing how human rights groups use satellite images and citizen media to visually communicate a pressing human rights issue to a large audience and key decision-makers. It is the very combination of these two media that deliver the strongest cases of documentation. Both satellite and cell phone technologies allow activists to circumvent government control of information and communication flows and often provide exceptionally powerful visuals to support public advocacy. This suggests a power shift in favor of the human rights watchdog.
A 3D-printed portable device for field deployment of living biosensors.

Abstract Living biosensors typically use genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to detect infectious biomarkers in clinical samples. GMOs are prohibited to be released into the environment by many laws, which limits the application of living biosensors outside laboratory settings. Here, we reported a robust 3D-printed device that eliminates the risk of exposure of GMOs to potential users and the environment. The device is designed to snugly attach to a common culture tube and consists of two components, a housing and a plunger. The housing contains a stress-focusing cutout and a reagent well to hold the living biosensor. While the plunger is designed to form a two-stage press-fit seal with the housing. The first seal allows to safely transfer the living biosensor from a biosafety lab to the field, and the second seal prevents the leakage of GMOs from the culture tube during the test and before safe disposal. Additionally, a lever-actuated machine was also designed and 3D-printed to assist users operating the device.
Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis in Children: An updated review based on current diagnostic criteria

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. Uniform diagnostic criteria for acute disseminated encephalomyelitis did not exist until publication of expert-defined consensus definitions by the International Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Society Group in 2007, with updates in 2013. In the expanding field of pediatric neuroimmunology, consistent diagnostic criteria are essential to correctly categorize patients as increasing information regarding prognosis and management becomes available. Scientific literature is relatively lacking in review articles on International Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Society Group-defined acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. This review focuses primarily on references applying the International Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Society Group criteria for acute disseminated encephalomyelitis presenting specific, up-to-date, and translatable information regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, management, and prognosis of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis in the pediatric population.
Rethinking Traumatic Brain Injury from Intimate Partner Violence: A Theoretical Model of the Cycle of Transmission

ABSTRACTDespite growing evidence of the repeated nature of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in women experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV), there is no theoretical model depicting TBIs as a cycl...
Road map to best practices

Abstract Fueled by the extremely wide gap between diagnostic and pharmaceutical industries, biomarkers and precision medicine have been faced by a significant number of critical challenges which put most of efforts and spend in vain. The challenges and limitations are unintentionally or, likely, intentionally ignored, overlooked, or underestimated—scientific buzz and attractive claims, but not bad news, always find audience and supporters. Unfortunately, there is no foreseen universal fix for the issues which propagate, spread, and get worse over time, and each pharma/biotech company has to work vigilantly to protect its assets. Recognizing the problem is the first step, and building strategy and infrastructure with the implementation of the right tools and mindsets are the cornerstones for best practices. In addition to the tips which were given throughout this book, this chapter will provide practical procedures to establish an efficient partnership with lab and diagnostic partners, and mitigate the biological, preanalytical, analytical, and clinical challenges.
Trouble Sleeping and Depression Among US Women Aged 20 to 30 Years

INTRODUCTION Depression in women is common, and 1 woman in 4 is likely to have an episode of major depression at some point in her life. Sleep disturbances, which are significantly associated with depression, are increasingly recognized as a determinant of women's health and well-being. Although studies have examined the association between depression and sleep disorders, little research has explored this association among young women. Our study investigated the relationship between sleep problems and depression among women aged 20 to 30. METHODS We used data on 1,747 women from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009-2016. In addition to univariate and bivariate analysis, we used unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models to estimate depression in the previous 2 weeks among women who reported ever having trouble sleeping. RESULTS Of 1,747 study participants, 19.6% reported trouble sleeping and 9.3% reported symptoms of depression. Weighted logistic regression results showed that women who had trouble sleeping were more than 4 times (odds ratio, 4.36; 95% confidence interval, 3.06-6.21; P < .001) more likely than women who did not have trouble sleeping to have had depression in the previous 2 weeks. The results were similar (adjusted odds ratio, 4.11; 95% confidence interval, 2.78-6.06; P < .001) after adjusting for other covariates. CONCLUSION We found a significant relationship between trouble sleeping and depression among US women aged 20 to 30. Findings suggest the need for regular screening and treatment of sleep disturbances among young women, which may improve their psychological health and reduce depression.
Chapter 3 – Epigenetics

Ovarian cancer (OC) is characterized by complex epigenetic alterations, including aberrant DNA methylation, histone modifications, and nucleosome positioning. Advances in the sequencing technologies over the past decade have enabled deeper characterization of the chromatin landscape in cancer. Alterations of the epigenome have been implicated in tumor progression, development of chemotherapy resistance, persistence, and survival of cancer stem cells. As the machinery governing epigenetic changes is being deciphered, the OC epigenome will become an important new therapeutic cancer target.
Nationwide external quality assessment of serologic tests for syphilis during 2006-2008

Objective To make a nationwide external quality assessment of serologic tests for syphilis in China,in hope to increase the quality of syphilis serology in laboratories at different levels.Methods From 2006 to 2008,a nationwide external quality assessment scheme was conducted for serologic tests for syphilis in laboratories of some medical and healthcare facilities each year by the Reference Laboratory,National Center for Sexually Transmitted Disease Control,China Center for Disease Control and Prevention.Five quality control samples and corresponding questionnaires were sent to the participating laboratories.Tests were conducted and test results were reported within stipulated time.Subsequently,the test results were statistically analyzed by the Reference Laboratory,and the final results were fed back to all of these participants.Results From 2006 to 2008,the number of participating provinces increased from 17 to 31,and the number of participating laboratories from 23 to 145.Laboratories achieving a full score amounted to 79.9％,36.8％ and 57.6％,and those gaining a score of 80 or greater amounted to 95.7％,88.2％ and 89.7％,respectively,in 2006,2007 and 2008.Conclusion The external quality assessment scheme has enhanced the capacity of participating laboratories for syphilis serology to a certain extent from 2006 to 2008.
Multiple concurrent centroid judgments imply multiple within-group salience maps

Subjects viewed a brief flash of 8–24 dots of either two or three colors randomly arrayed. Their task was to move a mouse cursor to the centroid (center-of-gravity) of each color in a pre-designated order. Conventional and idea-detector analyses show that subjects accurately judged all three centroids utilizing an astounding 13/24 stimulus dots, with only a modest loss of accuracy compared to judging a single-predesignated color centroid. The ability to concurrently compute three centroids is important because it is believed that centroid judgments are made on salience maps that record only salience and are ignorant of the features that produced the salience. Our explanation, instantiated in a computational model of salience processing, is that subjects have three salience maps. Dots are initially segregated into three groups according to color, then each color-group is recorded on a different salience map to compute a centroid. In Part 2, the data are analyzed in terms of Attention Operating Characteristics to characterize impairments in subjects’ color-attention filters (mostly insignificant) and encoding efficiency (20% drop for the hardest task) in making multiple versus single centroid judgments. A new, more sensitive analysis measured five sources of subject error variance, four independent, additive sources of error variance: imperfect color-attention filters; a Bayesian-like bias towards a central tendency; storage, retrieval, and cursor misplacement error; a large residual error due mostly to inefficient encoding; and fifth, an interactive source – error in all four components that increases when multiple centroid judgments versus a single centroid judgment are required on each trial. An important brain process is a salience map, a representation of the relative importance (salience) of the locations of visual space. It is needed to guide where to look next, for computing the center (technically “centroid”) of a cluster of items, and for other important computations. Here we show that in a brief flash of dots of three different colors, randomly interleaved, subjects can compute all three centroids. As a single salience map cannot discriminate dots of different colors, accurately reporting three centroids demonstrates that subjects have not just one, as is commonly believed, but at least three salience maps.
Scapulothoracic Dyskinesis: A Concept Review

Scapulothoracic dyskinesis (SD) occurs when there is a noticeable disruption in typical position and motion of the scapula, which can result in debilitating pain. The purpose of this review is to describe the current knowledge regarding the diagnosis and management of scapulothoracic dyskinesis by providing an evidence-based overview of clinical exams and treatment modalities available for orthopedic surgeons and provide insight into which treatment modalities require further investigation. SD is highly prevalent in athletes, particularly those participating in overhead activities (e.g., baseball, tennis, and swimming) and can coexist with several shoulder pathologies. A holistic approach in the diagnosis of SD has been supported in the literature; however, it is important to recognize that diagnosis is currently limited to the absence of a quantitative SD clinical assessment. The main goal of the treatment of SD is to regain proper scapular positioning and dynamics. The standard of care for the management of SD is conservative interventions aimed at optimizing scapular kinematics. Surgical intervention is only considered in the presence of concomitant pathology requiring surgery. Due to the complexity of coordinated movement of the shoulder girdle, recent literature has begun to move away from the use of traditional orthopedic tests, in favor of a more system-based approach for the diagnosis of SD. We present a concise review of clinical exams and treatment modalities available for orthopedic surgeons in the management of SD.
Bone modifying agents and skeletal related events in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

e18593Background: Bone metastases and skeletal related events (SREs) are a common cause of morbidity among patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC). SREs include pathologic bone...
Adrenal medulla

Although approximately 90% of patients diagnosed with hypertension have essential hypertension, it is important that secondary hypertension is considered; diagnosed, when present; and managed either medically or surgically. Although the most common organ involved in the etiology of secondary hypertension is the kidney, disorders of the adrenal gland also play a major role. This review focuses on recent findings and controversies about the adrenal medulla and, where appropriate, on the role of the adrenal medulla in hypertension.
Promotional Design for Small Businesses: The Operational Value of Online Deals

While revenue and demand management has been an active area of research for many years, relatively little work has empirically examined the revenue management tools used by small service providers. Unlike large sophisticated firms, small service providers have limited means for coordinating demand and supply. This is particularly true when they face large demand swings, say, from popular holidays. In recent years, a new demand management tool, the online deal, has become popular among small service providers. These deals allow service providers to reach consumers through an intermediary platform and differ from a simple temporary price cut because they require consumers to pre-pay for the service. However, they grant consumers flexibility in when they actually consume the service since they do not require customers to pre-specify their redemption dates. In this paper, we use a dataset from two leading Chinese deal platforms to study empirically how small service providers use online deals to manage demand swings driven by national holidays. We use a structural model built on service providers optimally designing “holiday” deals that anticipate a positive or negative demand shock. We show that holiday deals effectively manage holiday demand through three levers, one price based (the discount level) and, more interestingly, two time based (the time from the deal’s launch to the holiday and the duration of the deal). To our knowledge, using the launch date as a demand-shaping lever has not been studied in the literature. Also, little work has empirically studied how duration can be operationalized to manage demand. We find that the three levers jointly serve three operational roles – boosting and flattening mean demand as well as moderating demand variance. We furthermore reveal that heterogeneous deal designs across industries are driven by heterogeneous holiday demand swings and profit margins. Industries anticipating holiday demand valleys rely on holiday deals to boost demand by designing deep discounts. Industries facing large shrinks in profit margins on holidays wisely choose a launch date as well as a long duration to flatten their demand. Via counterfactual analysis, we quantify that service providers could see a mean profit improvement of 62.5% if they wisely launch holiday deals. Our work provides practical guidelines for service providers who are considering entering the booming holiday deal business.
Location of brachial plexus birth injury affects functional outcomes in a rat model.

Brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI) results in shoulder and elbow paralysis with shoulder internal rotation and elbow flexion contracture as frequent sequelae. The purpose of this study was to develop a technique for measuring functional movement and examine the effect of brachial plexus injury location (preganglionic, postganglionic) on functional movement outcomes in a rat model of BPBI, which we achieved through integration of gait analysis with musculoskeletal modeling and simulation. Eight weeks following unilateral brachial plexus injury, sagittal plane shoulder and elbow angles were extracted from gait recordings of young rats (n=18), after which rats were sacrificed for bilateral muscle architecture measurements. Musculoskeletal models reflecting animal-specific muscle architecture parameters were used to simulate gait and extract muscle fiber lengths. The preganglionic neurectomy group spent significantly less (p=0.00116) time in stance and walked with significantly less (p<0.05) elbow flexion and shoulder protraction in the affected limb than postganglionic neurectomy or control groups. Linear regression revealed no significant linear relationship between passive shoulder external rotation and functional shoulder protraction range of motion. Despite significant restriction in longitudinal muscle growth, normalized functional fiber excursions did not differ significantly between groups. In fact, when superimposed on a normalized force-length curve, neurectomy-impaired muscle fibers (except subscapularis) accessed regions of the curve that overlapped with the control group. Our results suggest the presence of compensatory motor control strategies during locomotion following BPBI. The clinical implications of our findings support emphasis on functional movement analysis in treatment of BPBI, as functional and passive outcomes may differ substantially. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Resistin/ADSF/FIZZ3 in obesity and diabetes

The role of adipocyte-secreted resistin/adipocyte-specific secretory factor (ADSF)/FIZZ3 in obesity and diabetes has been controversial at best. Recently generated resn knockout mice showed normal glucose and insulin sensitivity with lower fasting glucose levels. Upon feeding with a high-fat diet, the knockout mice exhibited increased glucose tolerance with decreased hepatic glucose output, possibly due to phosphorylation and activation of AMP-activated protein kinase and suppression of gluconeogenic genes. In comparison, transgenic mice overexpressing a dominant negative form of resistin/ADSF/FIZZ3 showed increased adiposity with elevated leptin and adiponectin levels, accompanying enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity both on chow and high-fat diets. Although its underlying mechanisms need further elucidation, the in vivo studies demonstrate a role of resistin/ADSF/FIZZ3 in obesity and insulin resistance.
Entre traditions et diffusions: Madagascar dans Comme un vol de papang' de Monique Agénor

In this article, I examine how Monique Agenor uses oral traditions and supernatural practices in her novel Comme un vol de papang' in order to bequeath Malagasy traditions not only to all the Malagasy people who are still living in the red island, Madagascar, but also to those who are now exiled. In her book, the writer tells the history of Madagascar in the wake of its decolonization and the story of Hermina, a young Malagasy descent woman who was born and lives in the island of Reunion, in the Indian Ocean. Thanks to her divine power, Herminia succeeds in spreading the history of an island that she does not know personally. By the agency of numerous rituals, symbolic visions, and the use of traditional rhetorical discourses borrowed from the Malagasy oral traditions, kabary, Agenor transmits the history of Madagascar and ensures its survival.
Mitochondria: Structure and Role in Respiration

Mitochondria are eukaryotic organelles of endosymbiotic origin, which conserve their own genome and gene expression machinery. They are highly dynamics organelles and form an elaborated network in the cell cytosol. Mitochondria fulfil various important roles in cellular metabolism. They are commonly known as ‘the powerhouse of the cell’ for their pivotal role in the conversion of nutrient-derived energy in the form of ATP molecules, through the mitochondria-housed pathways of citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation. Besides, much broader is the role that these organelles play in cellular metabolism and survival. Mitochondria fulfil important roles in the biosynthesis of essential molecules, such as lipids, amino acids, haem and iron–sulphur cluster, and are a major cellular site of reactive oxygen species production. Moreover, mitochondrial dysfunction is the cause of devastating human encephalomyopathies and it has been linked with neurodegeneration, cancer and ageing. Key Concepts Mitochondria are semi-autonomous organelles that are descendants of endosymbiotic bacteria. Mitochondria play a pivotal role in cellular energy production through the mitochondria-housed pathways of citric acid cycle, fatty acid oxidation, respiration and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Mitochondria have an important anabolic role in cellular metabolism, as they are fundamental for the synthesis of several amino acids, nucleobases and enzymatic cofactors such as haem and Fe-S clusters. Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles. They have two distinct membranes: the outer and the inner membrane. The inner membrane is highly impermeable to ions and forms an extensive series of invaginations called cristae. In the cell, mitochondria form a continuous and highly dynamic network. In addition, they intimately interact with other cellular structures, such as the cytoskeleton and the endoplasmic reticulum. Mitochondria retain their own hereditary material, the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), and their own translation apparatus or mitoribosomes. mtDNA is present in ∼1000–10 000 copies per cell and encodes for a handful of proteins, all subunits of the OXPHOS system. The OXPHOS system is located in the mitochondrial cristae and is formed by the mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) and the ATP synthase or complex V. The MRC is formed by four multimeric complexes (complex I–IV) and two mobile electron carriers, coenzyme Q and cytochrome c. In addition, MRC complexes interact to form organised supra-structures called supercomplexes or respirasomes. The assembly of the OXPHOS complexes is a complicated and highly regulated process requiring a large number of ancillary factors. In humans, defects of the OXPHOS system are associated with devastating diseases, known as mitochondrial disorders, which are multisystemic, although mainly affecting highly energy-demanding tissues such as brain, heart and muscle. Keywords: chemiosmotic theory; oxidative phosphorylation; citric acid cycle; ATP; mitochondrial respiratory chain; endosymbiotic theory; mitochondrial biogenesis
Impact of Domestic Food Programs on Nutrient Intake of Low-Income Persons in the United States

Domestic food programs in the United States originated in the 1930s, primarily in response to the needs of the agricultural sector. They served as a disposal mechanism for agricultural surpluses and were designed to stimulate demand. However, the nature of U.S. food programs has changed significantly during the last two decades. Out of a growing concern for the poor and the needy, their primary focus has become the improvement of the nutritional status of low-income families (Paarlberg, pp. 99-102.).
Insights Into Middle Atmospheric Hydrogen Chemistry from Analysis of Mahrsi Oh Observations

Observations of mesospheric and upper stratospheric OH made from space by the Middle Atmosphere High Resolution Spectrograph Investigation (MAHRSI) in November 1994 and August 1997 have opened a new window on the study of middle atmospheric hydrogen chemistry. The MAHRSI observations of OH ultraviolet fluorescence have allowed a more detailed testing of models of odd-hydrogen (HO x = H + OH + HO 2 ) chemistry, and its role in catalytic destruction of ozone, over a wider range of altitudes than ever before. Models of OH using standard photochemical theory overestimate the observed OH abundance by 25 to 35% throughout the mesosphere, yet in the upper stratosphere underestimate OH by nearly 20%. The sharp transition at the stratopause cannot be understood in terms of standard HO x chemistry or by any previously proposed modifications to that theory. Perhaps the most intriguing result of modeling the OH data is the confirmation of a narrow layer of water vapor near 70 km that had been previously observed by the Halogen Occultation Experiment (HALOE) on the Upper Atmospheric Research Satellite (UARS). The existence of this layer cannot be explained by standard gas phase chemistry at these altitudes and furthermore requires a local source of H 2 O. This may suggest that heterogeneous chemistry (e.g., surface recombination of H 2 and O on meteoric dust to form H 2 O) plays an important role in the mesosphere. MAHRSI observations of the OH column in the upper stratosphere are in general agreement with both balloon infrared observations extrapolated above 40 km altitude, and high altitude aircraft 2.5 THz observations, and thus resolve an earlier disagreement among OH measurements. Taken together, these results suggest that the standard model of hydrogen chemistry in the middle atmosphere is incomplete.
Monolithic integration of GaAs LED array/Si CMOS logic

Monolithic integration of a linear array of GaAs double heterojunction LEDs with a silicon CMOS logic circuit has been demonstrated for the first time. Maximum output power of 7.4 mu W was achieved for the LEDs, which have a 30 mu m*30 mu m active area. A fully functional prototype circuit consisting of eight GaAs LEDs driven by a 3-bit CMOS decoder was fabricated. Only a single 5 V supply was required for circuit operation. This prototype demonstrates that monolithic integration of GaAs LEDs with a Si CMOS circuit is feasible for low-cost optical I/O for future computing systems. >
Legally Prescribed Functions of Adult and Juvenile Probation Officers: Worlds Apart?.

Abstract Historically, there have been two competing goals of probation: law enforcement and rehabilitation of the offender. Accordingly, the role, functions, and tasks of probation officers are at times in conflict. In this paper we explore the roles of adult and juvenile probation officers and compare their statutorily prescribed duties. In so doing we attempt to uncover what differences exist between adult and juvenile probation officers. We conclude that there are no appreciable differences between the orientation (either law enforcement or rehabilitation) of the tasks adult and juvenile probation officers are mandated to perform. Moreover, the task orientation of probation officers (adult and juvenile) is slanted towards law enforcement.
Crystals of a hammerhead ribozyme

Hammerhead ribozyme-inhibitor complexes consisting of an RNA "enzyme" strand and a DNA "inhibitor" strand have been crystallized in four different crystal forms. The crystal form that is most attractive for structure determination diffracts to approximately 3.2 A resolution; it is trigonal, space group P3(1)21 or enantiomorph, a = 92.5 A, c = 185.0 A.
A novel device for assessing dark adaptation in field settings

Aberrant dark adaptation is common to many ocular diseases and pathophysiological conditions, including vitamin A deficiency, cardiopulmonary diseases, and hypoxia. Scotopic vision and pupillary responsiveness have typically been measured using subjective, time-consuming methods. Existing techniques are particularly challenging for use in developing country settings, where vitamin A deficiency remains a major public health problem. Our aim was design a compact, low cost, and easily operated device to assess dark adaptation in the field. The Portable Field Dark Adaptometer (PFDA) incorporates a digital camera, a retinal bleaching flash, and a Ganzfeld light source inside a pair of light-obscuring goggles. After a ~10 min period of dark adaption, the infrared camera digitally records afferent pupillary responses to graded light stimuli (−2.9 to 0.1 log cd/m2). We tested this device in a variety of field settings to assess: a) ease of use and b) whether test data could clearly and accurately depict the well-known dose-response relationship between light intensity and pupil contraction. A total of 822 videos were collected. We used an open source video analysis software to measure pupil size in pixel units. Pupillary responsiveness was expressed as the percent change in pupil size from pre- to post-light exposure. Box plots, t test, and multi-level mixed effects linear regression modeling were used to characterize the relationship between light intensity and pupillary response. The PFDA was employed with only minor technical challenges in Bangladesh, Kenya, Zambia, and Peru. Our data show a clear linear increase in pupillary constriction with increasing log light intensity. Light intensity was a strong predictor of pupillary response, regardless of baseline pupil size. The consistent physiological response demonstrated here supports the use of the PFDA as a reliable tool to measure dark adaptation. As a next step, PFDA measurements will be validated against biochemical indicators of vitamin A status and hypoxemia. Ultimately, this new technology may provide a novel approach for nutritional assessment, with potential clinical applications.
Primary pneumonic plague in the African Green monkey as a model for treatment efficacy evaluation

Background Primary pneumonic plague is rare among humans, but treatment efficacy may be tested in appropriate animal models under the FDA ‘Animal Rule’. Methods Ten African Green monkeys (AGMs) inhaled 44–255 LD50 doses of aerosolized Yersinia pestis strain CO92. Continuous telemetry, arterial blood gases, chest radiography, blood culture, and clinical pathology monitored disease progression. Results Onset of fever, >39°C detected by continuous telemetry, 52–80 hours post-exposure was the first sign of systemic disease and provides a distinct signal for treatment initiation. Secondary endpoints of disease severity include tachypnea measured by telemetry, bacteremia, extent of pneumonia imaged by chest x-ray, and serum lactate dehydrogenase enzyme levels. Conclusions Inhaled Y. pestis in the AGM results in a rapidly progressive and uniformly fatal disease with fever and multifocal pneumonia, serving as a rigorous test model for antibiotic efficacy studies.
Correlates of ocular and somatic symptoms among video display terminal users

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among employees of a large newspaper company (1) to define the type of ocular and somatic complaints reported by video display terminal (VDT) users and to identify their relationship to VDT use, (2) to determine the association between symptoms and the participants' adequacy of correction of refractive errors for their jobs, and (3) to assess the prevalence of eye abnormalities, especially cataracts, and their relationship to VDT use. Poor visual clarity of the VDT screen explained the plurality of work-associated symptoms. These associations were independent of the effects of potential confounding variables. The relationships with headaches associated with work and changes in visual function were replicated in a small, independent sample. One qualitative and two quantitative VDT-use variables that suggested lesser skill or experience were associated with headaches. No meaningful relationship was found between adequacy of the participants' refractions, including the ...
Age structure of aspen forests on the Uncompahgre Plateau, Colorado

Aspen forests are one of the most dynamic forest types in western North America, responding to chronic factors of competition for resources, as well as episodes of intense herbivory, drought, and f...
Data Constraints Applied to Models of the Ocean General Circulation. Part II: The Transient, Eddy-Resolving Case

Abstract In Part I of the present work we performed assimilation experiments with a multilayer, quasi-geostrophic (QG) eddy-resolving model of the ocean general circulation. In Part I we studied the quasi-linear, steady state and the assimilated data were density measured along hydrographic sections. The major result of this study was that the most effective sections are long, meridional ones located at distance from the western boundary. The model estimates are significantly improved over the entire region extending from the data section to the western boundary itself. In this second part we extend the study to the more realistic time-dependent, fully eddy-resolving ocean. Again we capitalize upon the two assumptions that the available models are imperfect and that data are measured only locally at meridional sections. The location of the sections are chosen according to (i) distance from the western boundary; (ii) energetics of the region. Also, here we compare assimilation of density alone versus densi...
The Surgeon and Acts of Civilian Terrorism: Chemical Agents

ISTORY he first documented use of chemical weapons occurred uring the Peloponnesian War (431 to 401 BCE) when hracian allies of Sparta overcame the defenders of an thenian Fort at Delium by insufflating fumes of burnng coal, sulfur, and pitch through a long tube placed hrough the wall of the fort. In 98 BCE, the Roman eneral Sertorius used an ash-like sand in battle to overome rebel tribesmen in Spain. The sand caused coughng and blindness, forcing surrender within 2 days. Noxous fumes from burning chemicals thought to be a ombination of rosia, sulfur, pitch, naphtha, lime, and erhaps saltpeter, were used as a naval weapon by the yzantine Greeks in 660 CE. The weapon was called Greek Fire.” Some 1,152 years later, Admiral Thomas ochrane of the Royal Navy suggested sending burning ulfur-laden ships (a forme fruste of Greek fire) into the arbors of Napoleonic France, but his proposal was not ccepted by the Admiralty. Through the centuries, a variety of poisons were used o destroy crops, contaminate water supplies, and assasinate adversaries. Rapid advances in the field of chemstry in the 19 and 20 centuries made available an ncreasing number of chemicals that could be used for ilitary or terrorist purposes. In 1854, during the
Antiscalant removal in accelerated desupersaturation of RO concentrate via chemically-enhanced seeded precipitation (CESP).

Abstract An experimental study was carried out to demonstrate and quantify the feasibility of antiscalant (AS) removal from brackish water RO concentrate of high gypsum scaling propensity via lime treatment prior to seeded gypsum precipitation. Based on studies with model solutions, it was shown that sufficient AS removal (up to ∼90%) from RO concentrate is feasible via a lime treatment step (at a dose significantly lower than that required for conventional lime softening) to enable effective subsequent seeded gypsum precipitation. This two-step chemically-enhanced seeded precipitation (CESP) treatment of primary RO concentrate is suitable as an intermediate concentrate demineralization (ICD) stage for high recovery desalting employing secondary RO desalination. Analysis of gypsum precipitation and lime treatment kinetic data suggests that, after adequate CaCO 3 precipitation has been induced for effective AS scavenging, CaSO 4 desupersaturation can be achieved via seeded gypsum precipitation without retardation due to seed poisoning by AS. Also, the lime dose required to prevent seed poisoning during subsequent gypsum desupersaturation via seeded gypsum precipitation can be adequately assessed with a precipitation kinetics model that considers AS seed poisoning based on a Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The degree of AS removal after lime treatment increased linearly with the logarithm of the single lime dose additions. Staged lime dosing (i.e., multiple lime additions), however, removed a higher degree of AS relative to an equivalent single lime dose addition since a higher driving force for CaCO 3 precipitation could be maintained over the course of the lime treatment period.
Generalized coupled azimuthal potentials for electromagnetic fields in inhomogeneous media

The original coupled azimuthal potential (CAP) formulation utilized two continuous potentials to represent the Fourier azimuthal modes of the vector field components in inhomogeneous axisymmetric material media. This formulation has since been used as the basis for finite-element solutions of radiation, scattering, and penetration problems. A generalization of the CAP formulation is presented that removes the restriction to axisymmetry of the inhomogeneous media while retaining the advantage of vector field generation in terms of only two scalar potentials. The discrete form of this generating relation is cast into a matrix transport equation, which is solved by the use of natural basis function. Variational and Galerkin approaches are considered for the solution of the given potentials. Computational examples, using finite elements, are given for the case of a simple three-dimensional boundary-value problem. >
Modeling metastable states in ASIC

Abstract The metastable behavior is unavoidable in sequential circuits. It is therefore important to characterize the circuit elements with this respect. The response time method correlates the additional delay due to the onset of metastability with the MTBF; it has been used to determine the failure window of MOSAIC3 flip-flops (emitter width 1μm, transition frequency 15GHz). The double sampling method allows a more accurate investigation of the metastability conditions. It has been applied to HDC gate arrays (CMOS, 1μm drawn channel length). Based upon the experimental results, a simulation model has been introduced in the ASIC library.
The calculation of the vapor pressures of antioxidants over a range of temperatures using thermogravimetry

Abstract Previous studies, as introduced by Price and Hawkins [Thermochim. Acta 315 (1998) 19], have established that it is possible to determine the vapor pressures of volatile organic compounds from data collected on a TG unit. This study involves the calculation of the partial vapor pressures of antioxidants by combining the experimental thermogravimetric data with its corresponding reference vapor pressure data obtained with Antoine constants, along with the application of the Langmuir equation for evaporation. The chosen antioxidants for this study are butylated hydroxytoluene and propenyl guaethol. Butylated hydroxytoluene was used as the calibration material from which the vapor pressure curve of propenyl guaethol is proposed. In this study, it was observed that a plot of p versus ν should be sufficient to yield the constant value of k , which is needed for the construction of vapor pressure curves of other samples being studied with the same TG unit. With the aid of a plot of vapor pressure curves with various k -values and a correlation plot, it is established that the k -value as obtained by plotting p versus ν yields a vapor pressure curve that is closest to a given reference vapor pressure curve.
Flow visualization of cellulose acetate–acetone solutions

The flow behavior of four cellulose acetate–acetone solutions varying from 20.00% to 28.18% solids concentration was observed using flow visualization techniques at 24°C with an industrial-type dry spinning system. Fibrous particulate matter entertained in the solutions and crossed polars revealed the streamlines and the birefringence due to flow in glass spinnerets. The streamlines of the four solutions were radially convergent at all obtainable throughputs. The crossed polars revealed a cone of birefringence with the order of the interference colors decreasing upstream of the capillary inlet. The intensity and extent of birefringence varied somewhat with concentration and throughput. Except for kneeing, the emerging extrudates were undeformed. The kneeing was not a result of flow instability a t the capillary inlet but was due to another, undetermined instability. A separate study of the kneeing revealed both a concentration dependence and hysteresis. The birefringence of the emerging extrudates was a function of both concentration and throughput, and it yielded some information about the structure of the solutions.