cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detecting USM image sharpening by using CNN

Abstract Image sharpening is a basic digital image processing scheme utilized to pursue better image visual quality. From image forensics point of view, revealing the processing history is essential to the content authentication of a given image. Hence, image sharpening detection has attracted increasing attention from researchers. In this paper, a convolutional neural network (CNN) based architecture is reported to detect unsharp masking (USM), the most commonly used sharpening algorithm, applied to digital images. Extensive experiments have been conducted on two benchmark image datasets. The reported results have shown the superiority of the proposed CNN based method over the existed sharpening detection method, i.e., edge perpendicular ternary coding (EPTC).
Rational Design of Superhydrophilic/Superoleophobic Surfaces for Oil–Water Separation via Thiol–Acrylate Photopolymerization

We report a simple, rapid, and scalable strategy to fabricate surfaces exhibiting in-air superoleophobic/superhydrophilic wetting via sequential spray deposition and photopolymerization of nanopart...
Intelligent designer: A computational approach to automating design of windows in buildings

Abstract The process of building design is a means of meeting client expectations for a building, followed by a set of comprehensive standards and codes relating to the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings. The rapidly rising volume of data along with increasing client expectations inspired many researchers to develop new computerized techniques to automate building design process. These techniques can be broken down into two broad categories: automated computer-aided design tools (e.g., development of building information modeling or BIM) and measuring or modeling client expectations (e.g., use of facial expressions to find psychological expectations of the client). Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have made possible new approaches to the automation of design. This represents a shift from a focus on client-designer or designer-technology relationships to a more intelligent and independent client-technology communication. In this paper, a novel AI system called intelligent designer is proposed to understand (or learn) the client's need and expectations and generate valid designs. The design environment (i.e., the interaction between the client and the design) is formulated as a Markov decision process (MDP) and a mathematical framework is provided for making design decisions in situations where new designs are partly random (as they are influenced by the client's feedback) and partly under the control of the computer (as they are influenced by the regulations, standards, and guidelines). The approach is demonstrated using a window design experiment.
How Deep Learning Is Making Information Security More Intelligent

Manually analyzing vast amounts of newly released malware is a significant problem for the security community. Deep-learning techniques have recently been employed to automate security tasks such as malware analysis, intrusion detection, and botnet detection. We look at such techniques and investigate how practical and secure they are.
Creating a Positive Learning Environment

This chapter describes ways to create a positive learning environment for students on the autism spectrum. Learners with autism need instructors who are knowledgeable of their challenges and those who are willing to provide a structured, organized, and supportive environment. The instructor should understand how to apply positive behavior support and create a plan for addressing challenging behavior. Additionally, the instructor should have access to resources to help him or her customize the learning environment, provide accommodations as needed, and support student success. This chapter describes technology that can be used to support academic performance, create schedules and visuals, support structured exchanges, and facilitate interest-based inquiry and student-centered learning. The chapter concludes with the need to involve parents in the instructional process to ensure consistency across environments, identify issues that may affect learning and behavior, examine reinforcers, and uncover challenges students may be unable to communicate. Posters and interactive hands-on activities should be evaluated as learning tools to engage and motivate the learner, provide choice, facilitate research and discovery, support information selection and validation, and promote public speaking and listening skills.
Spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase 1 is a gene-specific transcriptional regulator that drives brain tumor aggressiveness

Spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase 1 (SAT1), the rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine catabolism, has broad regulatory roles due to near ubiquitous polyamine binding. We describe a novel function of SAT1 as a gene-specific transcriptional regulator through local polyamine acetylation. SAT1 expression is elevated in aggressive brain tumors and promotes resistance to radiotherapy. Expression profiling in glioma cells identified SAT1 target genes that distinguish high- and low-grade tumors, in support of the prognostic utility of SAT1 expression. We further discovered mechanisms of SAT1-driven tumor aggressiveness through promotion of expression of both DNA damage response pathways as well as cell cycle regulatory genes. Mechanistically, SAT1 associates specifically with the promoter of the MELK gene, which functionally controls other SAT1 targets, and leads biologically to maintenance of neurosphere stemness in conjunction with FOXM1 and EZH2. CRISPR knockin mutants demonstrate the essentiality of the polyamine acetyltransferase activity of SAT1 for its function as a transcriptional regulator. Together, the data demonstrate that gene-specific polyamine removal is a major transcriptional regulatory mechanism active in high-grade gliomas that drives poor outcomes.
National Survey of US Plastic Surgeon Experience with Female Genital Mutilation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines female genital mutilation (FGM) as any procedure that intentionally alters or causes injury to the female genitalia for nonmedical reasons.1 It is practiced primarily for sociocultural reasons with the greatest prevalence in western, eastern, and north-eastern African regions. It is a violation of human rights that affects approximately 200 million girls and women worldwide.1 A study carried out by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimated that in 2012, 513,000 women and girls in the United States were at risk for FGM, a number that has tripled in the past three decades.2 While much of that rise is due to immigration, the practice is often continued after arriving in the U.S. by taking girls abroad or to another state for the specific purpose of undergoing FGM, known as “vacation cutting.”3 The WHO classifies FGM into 4 different types, listed in Table ​Table11 and illustrated in Figure ​Figure1.1. Immediate complications from the procedure include severe pain, hemorrhage, infections, sepsis, shock, and even death.4,5 Long-term, women with FGM experience chronic pain, scarring, sexual dysfunction, chronic urinary and reproductive tract infections, as well as high rates of obstetric complications and psychological disorders.4–7 Traditional practitioners, not medical professionals, are usually the ones to perform FGM in the majority of countries.8 In these settings, it is often performed without anesthesia and without sterile instruments, thereby contributing to the high rate of complications seen. In rare cases, the medicalization of FGM has become more common; however, this practice is strongly condemned by the United Nations and others.4,8 Table 1. World Health Organization Classification of FGM
Investigating the importance of positive hotel design

Abstract Despite customers’ attention to well-being, scant research has examined the role of positive hotel design to enhance customers’ well-being and brand evaluations. Derived from the positive design framework and Stimulus-Organism-Response model, this study investigated effects of positive design factors on customers’ responses in the context of the hotel industry. Findings from this study identified that corporate social responsibility to environment, escapism, and compatibility positively influenced customers’ well-being; whereas, only escapism and compatibility influenced self-brand connection. Both well-being and self-brand connection led to customers’ brand loyalty. Results provided suggestions to hotel managers in developing meaningful customer experiences through the lens of positive design.
A Minimally Invasive Approach To The Management Of Urethrovasocutaneous Fistula

Abstract Purpose: To describe a unique, minimally invasive approach to the management of a complex urethrovasocutaneous fistula utilizing the Da Vinci Xi robot. Introduction: Urethrovasocutaneous fistula are exceedingly rare [1] . Its etiology is varied and it is often presented as case reports [2] , [3] . At this time there is no standard management Materials and Methods: A 66 year old male was seen in clinic with difficulty voiding and years of persistent drainage from his scrotum. He endorsed a history of multiple prior direct visual internal urethrotomy (DVIU) for urethral stricture disease. An MRI of the prostate was performed due to an elevated PSA of 18 in the context of multiple negative biopsies and noted a 237 cubic centimeter (cc) prostate. A retrograde urethrogram and a voiding cystourethrogram confirmed a urethrovasocutaneous fistula. After discussion the patient was not interested in a urethroplasty at this time. A Cystoscopy was performed with a DVIU to allow placement of a 18 french 3-way foley catheter. Utilizing the Da Vinci Xi platform, we placed ports in the standard fashion for a robot assisted radical prostatectomy. An 8 millimeter (mm) camera port was placed 15 centimeters cranial to the pubic symphysis just above the level of the umbilicus. At this level, a single 8mm port was placed 8cm lateral to the camera port on the left. The remaining two 8mm ports were placed at 8cm and 16cm to the right of the camera. A 12mm assistant port was placed roughly two fingerbreadths from the left anterior superior iliac spine. A 5 millimeter assistant port was placed cranial to, and between the camera port and the robotic arm fourth arm trocar. The patient was placed in a steep trendelenburg and the da Vinci Xi was docked. A ligation of the vas deferens was performed bilaterally. A simple robotic prostatectomy was then performed; a robotic tenaculum was utilized for dynamic retraction. Results: The patient was seen for follow-up at two weeks post-operatively. After removal of the foley the patient voided well with a post-void residual of 30cc. Resolution of scrotal drainage was documented. The patient was seen at two months after his operation and once again no leakage from the scrotum was noted. He continued to void with a residual less than 50cc and his International Prostate Symptom Score was 4, with a quality life score of 0. Conclusion: We documented a successful, minimally invasive approach to the management of a complex urethrovasocutaneous fistula. We anticipate future urethroplasty when the patient is amenable
Jaundice in Malaria

Malaria is a leading cause of death and morbidity in the world. Malaria is caused by the infection of humans by the Plasmodium species of protozoan parasites. Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, and Plasmodium malariae represent the parasites which produce malaria. P. falciparum is the protozoan which produces the most severe cases of malaria, whereas the other three produce a more mild form of malaria. Historically, malaria was described by early writers in China and India, and Hippocrates described clinical features of malaria in the fifth century BC.
The Impact of Self-Efficacy on Behavior Change: The Roles of Socio-Cultural and Mental Health Factors

Self-efficacy, or how capable one feels to make behavioral changes, is an integral component to managing chronic disease. However, a patient’s sense of self-efficacy can be affected by a number of sociocultural and psychological factors. Pulmonary patients have disproportionally higher rates of mental health symptoms compared to the general population. Mood symptoms such as depression and anxiety can interfere with pulmonary patients’ ability to engage in positive health behaviors that are vital to the successful management of these chronic conditions. Additionally, pulmonary patients are influenced by sociocultural factors that may impact engagement in treatment. The current chapter focuses on how sociocultural and mental health factors impact self-efficacy and engagement in treatment. We first review the concept of self-efficacy and how self-efficacy is related to treatment engagement. We then discuss sociocultural and mental health factors that impact self-efficacy. Finally, we discuss strategies clinicians can utilize to target self-efficacy in their patients through a case vignette personifying these complex relationships.
Can military trauma promote psychological growth in combat veterans? Results from the national health and resilience in veterans study

Abstract Background Military combat trauma is often associated with negative outcomes, including high rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Less is known, however, about whether military combat trauma may foster posttraumatic growth (PTG), which has been observed in relation to other trauma types, in representative samples of veterans. Methods We analyzed data from veterans who participated in the National Health and Resilience in veterans Study who reported a military-related trauma (n = 210). Participants completed measures of trauma history, combat exposure, PTSD symptoms, PTG, functioning, and quality of life (QOL). Bivariate correlations, regression analyses, analyses of covariance, and fit of linear and quadratic functions were used to examine relationships between PTSD symptom clusters, PTG and its subdomains, and functioning. Results Number of deployments (β=0.23) and lifetime PTSD symptom severity (β=0.19), particularly re-experiencing symptoms (β=0.37), were independently associated with greater PTG. An inverted-U-shaped quadratic function provided the best fit for the relationship between PTSD symptoms and PTG (R2 =0.22). Greater PTG was associated with greater mental functioning (β=0.15) and QOL (β=0.24). Limitations The inability to make casual inferences in this cross-sectional study; possible bias related to self-report measures; and the lengthy time period between index trauma and assessment of PTSD and PTG. Conclusions PTG is relatively common among combat veterans, particularly among those with PTSD, and is associated with better mental functioning and QOL. Positive psychology interventions to bolster PTG may help promote functional outcomes in this population.
Inclusion of human rights in sexual and reproductive health programming: Facilitators and barriers to implementation Inclusion of human rights in sexual and reproductive health programming: Facilitators and barriers to implementation

The need to prioritise those furthest behind is well understood in global health circles, and how human rights norms and standards can help often touted. As rights concerns are particularly recognised in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) programming, as part of a larger exercise, a review was conducted to identify documented barriers and facilitators to implementation. Given the role global guidance plays in implementing rights-based approaches to SRH, UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP) guidelines, tools, recommendations and guidance that include the explicit mention of human rights principles served as the basis for this exercise. This was followed by an extensive review of the literature. Sources reviewed confirmed barriers include not only broad structural, policy and health systems barriers but financial, staffing and time constraints, as well as lack of understanding of concretely how to include human rights in these efforts. Facilitators include the existence of human rights champions, leadership, strong civil society participation, training, and funding made available specifically for implementation. Investment in indicators and documentation sensitive to human rights is warranted in sexual and reproductive health, as well as other health topics, to best serve populations who need them most. ARTICLE HISTORY
Insertion mutagenesis of Escherichiacoli GroEL.

Abstract To gain insights into the in vivo folding and assembly of bacterial chaperonins, groEL was subjected to insertion mutagenesis using transposon IS lacZ /in. Four GroEL-LacZ fusions and the corresponding insertion mutants were obtained after residues 34, 90, 291, and 367. Apical domain insertion mutants GroEL291 and GroEL367 were degraded into monomeric 30- and 40-kDa fragments, respectively. Only the latter was fully soluble, suggesting that proper isomerization of an essentially complete apical domain is required for efficient protomer folding. Truncated variants were inactive as minichaperones as they failed to restore the growth of groEL140 cells at 43 °C whether or not GroES was co-expressed. A 31-residue insertion in equatorial helix D led to complete degradation of GroEL90. By contrast, extraneous amino acids were tolerated at equatorial position 34, indicating that this region is highly flexible. Nevertheless, GroEL34 did not fold as efficiently as authentic GroEL and reached only a heptameric conformation.
High single mode power in photonic crystal vertical cavity lasers

Photonic crystal confinement incorporated into selectively oxidized vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) is for the first time shown to enable increased continuous wave single mode output power compared to selectively-oxidized devices fabricated in the same material.
Breaking the Transubstantive Pleading Mold: Public Interest Environmental Litigation after Ashcroft v. Iqbal

Twombly and Iqbal have upended many previously held ideas about the nature utility of transubstantive procedural rules. In light of the increased burden plausibility places upon plaintiffs, the normative justifications for transubstantivity must be reexamined to determine whether pleading now exceeds its original scope. If so, then what are the implications for different substantive areas of law and litigation?This paper views Iqbal pleading from the perspective of the environmental public interest plaintiff. By assessing the role and function of public interest litigation and weighing it against the weakened justifications for maintaining transubstantive procedural rules, we can better understand if Twombly and Iqbal actually justifies the use of substance specific pleading standards.This paper argues that the plausibility standard thwarts the purpose or “substantial justice” of public interest environmental litigation. This creates dissonance between the goals of transubstantive rules and the pleading standard. Justification for transubstantive rules evaporates because justice for the public interest in environmental litigation is less obtainable. In lieu of this dilemma, this paper puts forward a solution that calls for the partition of the current Twombly pleading standard, returning public interest environmental litigation to notice pleading. Notice pleading is better suited to the unique purposes of public interest environmental litigation. Although problems exist with the implementation of this break up, this paper will attempt to provide justification for the necessity of choosing this more difficult path.
Short-Circuit Calculating Procedure for D-C Systems with Motors and Generators [includes discussion]

Additional background information made available in the last 5 years now permits the approximate time-current characteristics of fault currents in d-c systems to be calculated with the assurance of more realistic results. The need for this information has increased as the concentrations of d-c power sources have grown. Some older systems may also benefit from a short-circuit study. The object of this work is to assemble information and methods which will permit the reader readily to determine fault characteristics of d-c systems. This paper is limited to a discussion of d-c systems containing only motors and generators. The information presently available regarding the fault characteristics of other sources of short-circuit current is not sufficiently advanced to permit its inclusion in this paper. The other sources of short-circuit current are rectifiers, synchronous converters, electrolytic cells, and batteries, and it is expected that as further information concerning the fault characteristics of these sources becomes available, it will also be simplified and presented in a readily usable form.
Preaching to the Choir? Religious Leaders and American Opinion on Immigration Reform

Objective Do the public declarations of religious leaders concerning immigration influence American public opinion on immigration reform? Methods In answering this question, we use the 2004 National Politics Study and employ ordered logistic regression techniques to test hypotheses derived from elite opinion theory. Results We find that exposure to elite messages from religious leaders on immigration leads respondents to more strongly support increasing immigration to the United States, allowing immigrants to serve in the military, and allowing immigrants who serve in the military to gain citizenship. Conclusion Taken together, these results provide evidence that members of America's largest religious denominations are communicating support for liberal immigration reforms to their parishioners and, more importantly, that these signals subsequently influence the preferences of the parishioners exposed to these messages.
Research strategies for addressing uncertainties

This chapter examines research strategies that aim to reduce uncertainty associated with climate drivers and their effects on systems in the Southwest. It also identifies scientific approaches that are being considered for implementation in programs of adaptive responses to climate change. This chapter was written collaboratively with Chapter 19, which outlines some of the most important uncertainties related to climate variability and change in the Southwestern United States. In these chapters the uncertainty derives from both our presently imperfect capability to model climate and other earth systems and from our inability to adequately characterize social, economic, policy and regulatory responses in the form of adaptation and mitigation.
Structure of nicastrin unveils secrets of γ-secretase

Despite afflicting tens of millions worldwide, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains a devastating brain-destroying malady with no effective treatment or cure. A central hallmark of AD is the deposition of amyloid plaques in the brain. These plaques are primarily composed of the amyloid β-peptide (Aβ), a byproduct of proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) within its transmembrane domain by γ-secretase. Mutations in both APP and presenilin, the catalytic component of γ-secretase, are associated with dominant early-onset AD, highlighting their central importance in pathogenesis (1). Gaining a detailed mechanistic understanding of how γ-secretase processes APP—and its other substrates, such as Notch receptors—is critically important for biology and medicine (2). Despite a wealth of biochemical studies, key details of how γ-secretase functions have remained elusive because of a lack of high-resolution structural data. In PNAS, Xie et al. present a crystal structure of nicastrin, the first atomic-resolution structure of a component of a γ-secretase complex (3).
Amyl acetate as a clearing agent for refractory plant materials.

(1951). Notes on Technic: Amyl Acetate as a Clearing agent for Refractory Plant Materials. Stain Technology: Vol. 26, No. 4, pp. 271-272.
Economic reforms and the competitive environment of firms

This article lays out several hypotheses to establish a specific link between structural economic reforms and the competitive environment of firms. We test our hypotheses on data from the steel industry in three post-reform economies. We find that economic reforms tend to have a positive effect on environmental munificence, but they also produce short-term instability in the environment. We elaborate on the implications of our results for managers, policymakers, and scholars. Copyright 2007 , Oxford University Press.
Magnetic hydrogel nanocomposites as remote controlled microfluidic valves

In recent years, hydrogels have attracted attention as active components in microfluidic devices. Here, we present a demonstration of remote controlled flow regulation in a microfluidic device using a hydrogel nanocomposite valve. To create the nanocomposite hydrogel, magnetic nanoparticles were dispersed in temperature-responsive N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm) hydrogels. The swelling and collapse of the resultant nanocomposite can be remotely controlled by application of an alternating magnetic field (AMF). A ceramic microfluidic device with Y-junction channels was fabricated using low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) technology. The nanocomposite was incorporated as a valve in one of the channels of the device. An AMF of frequency 293 kHz was then applied to the device and ON–OFF control on flow was achieved. A pressure transducer was placed at the inlet of the channel and pressure measurements were done for multiple AMF ON–OFF cycles to evaluate the reproducibility of the valve. Furthermore, the effect of the hydrogel geometry on the response time was characterized by hydrogels with different dimensions. Magnetic hydrogel nanocomposite films of different thicknesses (0.5, 1, 1.5 mm) were subjected to AMF and the kinetics of collapse and recovery were studied.
Pi-stacked thin films of pentacene on Au(111)

The structures of the thin films of pentacene (C 22 H 14 ) grown by organic molecular beam deposition on Au(111) have been investigated by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). In the coverage range of 1-4 monolayers, pentacene molecules arrange into striped structure where each row consists of pentacene molecules aligned side-by-side. Based on the two dimensional (2D) unit cell as well as step height of the molecular island, we conclude that pentacene molecules form close-packed layers with their long molecular axis parallel to the surface. Although there is a possibility for the molecules to be tilted around their short molecular axis in this form, there is little difference between monolayer and multiplayer structure. Within the molecular layer and between adjacent layers, there is a broad distribution of relative angles in different domaims. The relative interaction strength between pentacene molecules in the same layer and in adjacent layers is discussed.
Abstract PR8: Insensitivity to RAF inhibition by vemurafenib in BRAF mutant colorectal cancer by EGFR-mediated reactivation of MAPK signaling

BRAF mutations occur in 10–15% of colorectal cancers (CRCs) and confer adverse outcome in the metastatic setting. While RAF inhibitors such as vemurafenib (PLX4032) have proven effective in BRAF mutant melanoma (∼60–80% response rates), they are surprisingly ineffective in BRAF mutant CRCs (∼5% response rate), and the reason for this disparity remains unclear. Compared to BRAF mutant melanoma cells, BRAF mutant CRC cells were less sensitive to vemurafenib, and P-ERK suppression was not sustained in response to treatment. Although transient inhibition of phospho-ERK by vemurafenib was observed in CRC, rapid ERK re-activation occurred through EGFR-mediated activation of RAS and CRAF. BRAF mutant CRC cell lines and patient tumor specimens expressed significantly higher levels of phospho-EGFR than BRAF mutant melanoma cell lines and primary tumor specimens, suggesting that CRCs are specifically poised for EGFR-mediated resistance. Combined RAF and EGFR inhibition blocked reactivation of MAPK signaling in BRAF mutant CRC cells and markedly improved efficacy in vitro. In vivo, combined RAF and EGFR inhibition led to sustained suppression of MAPK signaling and to robust tumor regressions in BRAF mutant colorectal xenografts. These findings support evaluation of combined RAF and EGFR inhibition in clinical trials in patients with BRAF mutant CRC. This proffered talk is also presented as Poster B11 .
Genital ulceration as a risk factor for human immunodeficiency virus infection

Among 115 heterosexual men who presented with genital ulcers to a sexually transmitted disease clinic in Nairobi, Kenya, the prevalence of serum antibody to HIV was 16.5%. A past history of genital ulcers was reported by 12 (63%) of 19 men with antibody to HIV versus 30 (31%) of 96 without antibody (P = 0.008). HIV infection was also positively associated with lack of circumcision, but was not associated with the etiology of the current genital ulcer. Logistic regression analysis (adjusted for age, number of recent sex partners, recent prostitute contact, circumcision, tribal ethnic identity, past history of urethritis, and current diagnoses) confirmed only the association between prior history of genital ulcer disease and HIV infection; (P = 0.04, odds ratio 2.35, 95% confidence limits, 1.01-5.47). The incidence of genital ulcers, particularly chancroid, is much higher in parts of Africa than in Europe or North America. This may contribute to the increased risk of heterosexual transmission of HIV in Africa. Aggressive control of chancroid and syphilis may offer one very feasible approach to reducing transmission of HIV in this region.
Effect of calcitonin treatment on the natural course of bone demineralization in Paget's disease.

Numerous studies have been done to determine the effects of long term calcitonin (CT) treatment on Paget's disease of bone, but very few studies have been undertaken to determine the long term CT effect on nonpagetic bone in man. Because of conflicting results of the CT effect on osteoporosis and also for further understanding of the role of CT on normal bone, we conducted a longitudinal prospective study on the effect of CT treatment on nonpagetic bone in patients with Paget's disease using monoenergetic photon absorptiometry method. Patients with Paget's disease were given salmon CT daily for a period of 3 yr, the bone mineral content (BMC) in the nonpagetic distal radius was measured periodically for 3 yr, and the data were compared with those of the control group of patients with Paget's disease not receiving CT treatment. It was found that the control group showed a persistent gradual decrease in BMC during the study period of 3 yr, but the CTtreated group showed no decrease in BMC during the 3-yr pe...
Metabolism of the methoxychlor isostere, dianisylneopentane, in mouse, insects, and a model ecosystem

Abstract Dianisylneopentane or 1,1-bis(p-methoxyphenyl)-2,2-dimethylpropane was metabolized largely by O-demethylation to form mono- and diphenol derivatives. Only a small percentage was degraded by α-hydroxylation and rearrangement. In the model ecosystem, dianisylneopentane reacted very similarly to methoxychlor, accumulating in fish to about the same extent and yielding a slightly higher ratio of polar to nonpolar metabolites. The neopentyl group proved to be approximately as stable in biological systems as the isosterically equivalent trichloromethyl group.
Pre-pubertal gonadectomy and the social consequences of acute ethanol in adolescent male and female rats

Abstract It has previously been shown that pre-pubertal or adult gonadectomy (GX) increases ethanol intake in male rats. This study examined whether this sex-selective increase reflects a GX-induced maintenance in males of more adolescent-typical responsiveness to ethanol characterized by enhanced sensitivity to positive (e.g., socially facilitating) and a decreased sensitivity to adverse (e.g., socially inhibitory) effects of ethanol. Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were pre-pubertally GX, sham (SH)-operated, or non-manipulated (NM) at postnatal day (P) 25. During the late adolescent transition into adulthood (P48 — baseline day), rats were given a saline injection, placed alone into a familiar test apparatus for 30 min and then exposed for 10 min to an unfamiliar partner of the same age and sex. On the following day (P49), similar testing occurred after administration of 0.5, 0.75, 1.0 or 1.25 g/kg ethanol. At baseline, GX males and females displayed higher levels of social activity (especially adolescent-typical play and contact behavior) than SH and NM animals, with GX females displaying greater social activity than GX males. Neither males nor females demonstrated social facilitation at lower ethanol doses, regardless of hormonal status. Whereas the social inhibitory effects of higher doses of ethanol were similar across groups among females, SH males were less sensitive than both GX and NM males to ethanol-induced social inhibition. These results suggest that enhanced ethanol intake in GX males is not related to alterations in sensitivity to ethanol's social inhibitory effects. GX, however, results in retention of adolescent-typical social behaviors, with older GX adolescent rats resembling early adolescents in exhibiting elevated social activity—particularly play and contact behavior.
The Tiger Woods phenomenon: a note on biracial identity

Abstract Traditional race based models exclude the unique developmental dynamics of biracial Americans such as “Tiger” Woods. Conversely, a substantial portion of the scholarly literature emphasizes social experience rather than physiological attributes as the keystone to individual identity development. In the aftermath biracial Americans are conflicted. In an effort to ensure their psychic health social scientist scholars and practitioners must inculcate a human development across the life span model to accommodate the nation’s increasing level of racial and cultural miscegenation.
Degradation of transport-competent destabilized phaseolin with a signal for retention in the endoplasmic reticulum occurs in the vacuole

To understand how plant cells exert quality control over the proteins that pass through the secretory system we examined the transport and accumulation of the bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) vacuolar storage protein phaseolin, structurally modified to contain a helix-breaking epitope and carboxyterminal HDEL, an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-retention signal. The constructs were expressed in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) with a seedspecific promoter. The results show that phaseolin-HDEL accumulates in the protein-storage vacuoles, indicating that HEDL does not contain sufficient information for retention in the ER. However, the ER of seeds expressing the phaseolin-HDEL construct contain relatively more phaseolin-HDEL compared to phaseolin in the ER of seeds expressing the phaseolin construct. This result indicates that the flow out of the ER is retarded but not arrested by the presence of HDEL. Introduction into phaseolin of the epitope “himet” (Hoffman et al., 1988, Plant Mol. Biol. 11, 717–729) greatly reduces the accumulation of HiMet phaseolin compared to normal phaseolin. However, the increased abundance within the ER is similar for both phaseolin-HDEL and HiMet phaseolin-HDEL. Using immunocytochemistry with specific antibodies, HiMet phaseolin was found in the ER, the Golgi stack, and in transport vesicles indicating that it was transport competent. It was also present at an early stage of seed development in the protein-storage vacuoles, but was not found there at later stages of seed development. Together these results support the conclusion that the HiMet epitope did not alter the structure of the protein sufficiently to make it transport incompetent. However, the protein was sufficiently destabilized to be degraded by vacuolar proteases.
Adaptability of pregnant Merino ewes to the cold desert climate in Nevada.

Grazing ability is difficult to record in animals under free-ranging conditions without sophisticated methods. Alternatively, grazing ability may be indirectly inferred from changes in BW and production characteristics during the grazing period. The present study investigated the effect of grazing on resource-limited rangelands on BW, wool characteristics, and offspring weaning weights in nine hundred five 5/8, 7/8, and fullblood Merino ewes of 2 to 7 yr of age during a grazing period of approximately 2.5 mo (between January and March). A total of 469 ewes gave birth to a single lamb, 248 to twin lambs, and 188 did not give birth. Body weights were measured and wool samples taken before and after the ewes were allowed to graze freely on the rangelands; absolute change in BW and change in BW as a percentage of initial BW were estimated. On average, grazing on resource-poor rangelands resulted in BW loss, a reduction in fiber diameter and its CV, and increased staple length. Animals with finer wool at the start of the grazing period lost phenotypically (r = -0.07, P < 0.05) and genetically (r = -0.23, P < 0.05) less BW during the grazing period and had a greater probability to carry 1 lamb (or 2) to term (P < 0.05). Animals that lost less BW produced more greasy fleece (r = 0.09, P < 0.01). Body weight change did not significantly influence offspring weaning weights. Change in BW was moderately heritable at h 2 = 0.29; fiber diameter was strongly heritable at h 2 = 0.51. Animals with the least inclusion of Merino genetics lost more BW (P < 0.01) during the grazing period and had a more uniform fiber diameter (P < 0.05) but shorter staples (P < 0.05) and less fleece (P < 0.0001) than animals with a greater level of Merino genetics. Our results indicate that animals with finer wool appeared to be better adapted to the cold Nevada desert. Thus, selection for finer wool may positively influence adaptability to resource-limited cold climate conditions; alternatively, BW change may be selected for directly. Because nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy can have adverse consequences for the offspring, indirect selection for grazing ability would foremost result in healthier ewes that can produce lambs and wool without compromising their welfare.
Activation of brain typtophan hydroxylase by a phosphorylating system

A significant activation of tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) was achieved by the addition of 1 mM ATP and 10 mM MgCl2 to 100,000g supernatant prepared from mouse midbrain. The activation produced an increase of enzyme activity by 50-70% above control. Cyclic AMP was not a necessary component in the activation as initially suspected; neither was the involvement of a cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase detected. The enzyme activation by Mg+2-ATP was totally retained after dialysis, thus excluding the possibility of an allosteric effect. In contrast to the activation, TPH was found to be sensitive to inactivation by acid phosphatase, a dephosphorylating enzyme. These findings are consistent with the proposal that the enzyme activation may involve a phosphorylation process. Furthermore, the activation by Mg+2-ATP in the brain preparations was only minimally observed from neonatal mice and could be abolished from adult mice by administration of hydrocortisone. It appears that the phosphorylation process, as postulated here, may be under developmental and hormonal influences.
Nutritional Factors Affecting the Solids-Not-Fat Content of Milk

The nutri t ion of the cow has a marked effect on milk composition. Considerably more research has dealt with feeding factors affecting milk fat than solids-not-fat (SNF). However, several very good reviews have summarized known effects of diet on the SNF content of milk (7, 12, 20, 23, 42, 43, 55, 60). Dietary energy. As early as 1941, Ridett et al. (53) observed a decrease in milk SNF of cows fed about 50% of the recommended energy level. In 1944, Rowland (61) reported field observations that SNF decreased in the winter and increased when cows were put on spring grazing. In a subsequent study, Rowland (62) noted that a lower SNF (8.34 vs. 8.68%) resulted from feeding energy at 75% of Woodmau's standards, compared to 100%. It is now widely recognized that restriction of energy to less than the recommended standard causes a marked reduction in milk SNF (12, 20, 23, 54, 60). Smaller increases have resulted from raising the energy intake well above sta, dard (6, 8, 14, 15, 17-19, 31, 32, 34-36, 50. 57). For example, I-lolmes et al. (32) fed four leveis of concentrate (0, 0.9, 1.8, 2.7 kg/gal milk) and noted an increase in SNF frora 8.3% on the lowest level of feeding to 8.6% on the highest. When Huber and Boman (36) fed four levels of grain to cows on pasture (0, 0.14, 0.29, and 0.57 ke,'/kg milk), the SNF content for the respective levels averaged 8.51, 8.64, 8.86, and 9.08%. In many areas, it has been a general observation that cows placed on lush pasture in the spring undergo an increase in the SNF content of their milk (22, 31, 55, 61, 62, 66). Studies by Rook et al. (59) demonstrated that this was due to an increase in the plane of nutrition. They showed that cows which had received 75% of the Woodman Standard for energy during a winter-feeding period increased 0.33% in SNF when placed on lush pasture in the spring; whereas, a group receiving 130% of standard underwent a 0.12% decrease in SNF when they commenced to graze. Similar results we,'e observed by Castle and Watson (19) and Waite et al. (66). Increases noted in mill< SNF at hi~'h energy intakes have generally occurred in the protein
Effects of 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyano-2,2-disulfonic stilbene on ion transport in turtle bladders.

Abstract The disulfonic stilbene (4-acetamido-4′-isothiocyano-2,2′-disulfonic stilbene) is found to be more potent than acetazolamide as an anion transport inhibitor in the turtle bladder, but less potent than acetazolamide as a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. The anion-dependent (HCO3-−, Cl−) moeity of the short-circuiting current is eliminated by 4-acetamido-4′-isothiocyano-2,2′-disulfonic stibene, but only after its addition to the serosal bathing fluid. Whereas 4-acetmido-4′-isothiocyano-2,2′-disulfonic stilbene has no effect om Na+transport across the bladder, it is more potent than ouabain as an inhibitor of microsomal ( Na + + K + )- ATPase of both turtle bladder and eel electric organ.
Theory of the pseudogap state of the cuprates

The phase diagram for a general model for cuprates is derived in a mean-field approximation. A phase-violating time reversal without breaking translational symmetry is possible when both the ionic interactions and the local repulsions are large compared to the energy difference between the Cu and O single-particle levels. It ends at a quantum critical point as the hole or electron doping is increased. Such a phase is necessarily accompanied by singular forward scattering such that, in the stable phase, the density of states at the chemical potential, projected to a particular point-group symmetry of the lattice is zero, producing thereby an anisotropic gap in the single-particle spectrum. It is suggested that this phase occupies the ``pseudogap'' region of the phase diagram of the cuprates. The temperature dependence of the single-particle spectra, the density of states, the specific heat, and the magnetic susceptibility are calculated with rather remarkable correspondence with the experimental results. The importance of further direct experimental verification of such a phase in resolving the principal issues in the theory of the cuprate phenomena is pointed out. To this end, some predictions are provided.
fNIRS evidence of prefrontal regulation of frustration in early childhood.

Abstract The experience of frustration is common in early childhood, yet some children seem to possess a lower tolerance for frustration than others. Characterizing the biological mechanisms underlying a wide range of frustration tolerance observed in early childhood may inform maladaptive behavior and psychopathology that is associated with this construct. The goal of this study was to measure prefrontal correlates of frustration in 3–5-year-old children, who are not readily adaptable for typical neuroimaging approaches, using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). fNIRS of frontal regions were measured as frustration was induced in children through a computer game where a desired and expected prize was “stolen” by an animated dog. A fNIRS general linear model (GLM) was used to quantify the correlation of brain regions with the task and identify areas that were statistically different between the winning and frustrating test conditions. A second-level voxel-based ANOVA analysis was then used to correlate the amplitude of each individual's brain activation with measure of parent-reported frustration. Experimental results indicated increased activity in the middle prefrontal cortex during winning of a desired prize, while lateral prefrontal cortex activity increased during frustration. Further, activity increase in lateral prefrontal cortex during frustration correlated positively with parent-reported frustration tolerance. These findings point to the role of the lateral prefrontal cortex as a potential region supporting the regulation of emotion during frustration.
Nanotechnology for Delivery of Drugs to the Brain for Epilepsy

Epilepsy results from aberrant electrical activity that can affect either a focal area or the entire brain. In treating epilepsy with drugs, the aim is to decrease seizure frequency and severity while minimizing toxicity to the brain and other tissues. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are usually administered by oral and intravenous routes, but these drug treatments are not always effective. Drug access to the brain is severely limited by a number of biological factors, particularly the blood—brain barrier, which impedes the ability of AEDs to enter and remain in the brain. To improve the efficacy of AEDs, new drug delivery strategies are being developed; these methods fall into the three main categories: drug modification, blood—brain barrier modification, and direct drug delivery. Recently, all three methods have been improved through the use of drug-loaded nanoparticles.
Improving the Volume Dependence of Two-Body Binding Energies Calculated with Lattice QCD

Volume modifications to the binding of two-body systems in large cubic volumes of extent $L$ depend upon the total momentum and exponentially upon the ratio of $L$ to the size of the boosted system. Recent work by Bour et al. determined the momentum dependence of the leading volume modifications to nonrelativistic systems with periodic boundary conditions imposed on the single-particle wave functions, enabling them to numerically determine the scattering of such bound states using a low-energy effective field theory and L\"uscher's finite-volume method. The calculation of bound nuclear systems directly from QCD using lattice QCD has begun, and it is important to reduce the systematic uncertainty introduced into such calculations by the finite spatial extent of the gauge-field configurations. We extend the work of Bour et al. from nonrelativistic quantum mechanics to quantum field theory by generalizing the work of L\"uscher and of Gottlieb and Rummukainen to boosted two-body bound states. The volume modifications to binding energies can be exponentially reduced from $\mathcal{O}({e}^{\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\kappa}L}/L)$ to $\mathcal{O}({e}^{\ensuremath{-}2\ensuremath{\kappa}L}/L)$ in nonrelativistic systems (where $\ensuremath{\kappa}$ is the binding momentum of the state) by forming particular combinations of the binding energies determined in the four lowest-lying boosted systems. Relativistic corrections to this combination, and others, that violate the exponential reduction are determined. An analysis of what can be expected from lattice QCD calculations of the deuteron is performed, the results of which are representative of a generic loosely bound system.