cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A home and rescue gene drive forces its inheritance stably persisting in populations

Abstract Homing based gene drives, engineered using CRISPR/Cas9, have been proposed to spread desirable genes into target populations. However, spread of such drives can be hindered by the accumulation of resistance alleles. To overcome this significant obstacle, we engineer a population modification Home-and-Rescue (HomeR) drive in Drosophila melanogaster that, by creative design, limits the accumulation of such alleles. We demonstrate that HomeR can achieve nearly ~100% transmission enabling it to persist at genotypic fixation in several multi-generational population cage experiments, underscoring its long term stability. Finally, we conduct mathematical modeling determining HomeR can outperform contemporary gene drives architectures for population modification over wide ranges of fitness and transmission rates. Given its straightforward design, HomeR could be universally adapted to a wide range of species.
Future Directions and Evolving Theories

While understanding of headache triggers has progressed considerably, much remains to be elucidated. Several recent advances, such as scaling of triggers on a common metric, application of advanced statistical techniques, and utilization of biomarkers, show promise for improving measurement of triggers. This chapter introduces these emerging concepts and their potential for use in trigger assessment.
Retrieval-guided Counterfactual Generation for QA

Deep NLP models have been shown to learn spurious correlations, leaving them brittle to input perturbations. Recent work has shown that counterfactual or contrastive data -- i.e. minimally perturbed inputs -- can reveal these weaknesses, and that data augmentation using counterfactuals can help ameliorate them. Proposed techniques for generating counterfactuals rely on human annotations, perturbations based on simple heuristics, and meaning representation frameworks. We focus on the task of creating counterfactuals for question answering, which presents unique challenges related to world knowledge, semantic diversity, and answerability. To address these challenges, we develop a Retrieve-Generate-Filter(RGF) technique to create counterfactual evaluation and training data with minimal human supervision. Using an open-domain QA framework and question generation model trained on original task data, we create counterfactuals that are fluent, semantically diverse, and automatically labeled. Data augmentation with RGF counterfactuals improves performance on out-of-domain and challenging evaluation sets over and above existing methods, in both the reading comprehension and open-domain QA settings. Moreover, we find that RGF data leads to significant improvements in a model's robustness to local perturbations.
Control of Linear Time-Invariant Systems with Plant Disturbances and Incomplete Measurements

This paper is concerned with the estimation and control of linear systems with unknown disturbances entering the system at specified points. The assumption that systems experience some sort of disturbance input which is not known a priori and which cannot be directly measured on-line is true for most cases. These disturbances may be due to environmental effects or modeling approximations. As examples one can cite load fluctuations in regulators, changes in wind velocity and direction in aircraft; raw material variations in chemical processes, etc. Estimators designed by conventional techniques fail exactly to reconstruct the state when such disturbances are present. In this case the designer is forced to use output feedback or an unknown-biased estimate of the state variables in his control law, which may result in failure to meet the closed-loop specifications.
Keeping the Government Whole: The Impact of a Cap-and-Dividend Policy for Curbing Global Warming on Government Revenue and Expenditure

When the United States puts a cap on carbon emissions as part of the effort to address the problem of global climate change, this will increase the prices of fossil fuels, significantly impacting not only consumers but also local, state, and federal governments. Consumers can be “made whole,” in the sense that whatever amount the public pays in higher fuel prices is recycled to the public, by means of a cap-and dividend policy: individual households will come out ahead or behind in monetary terms depending on whether they consume above-average or below-average amounts of carbon. In this paper, we consider policy options for “keeping the government whole,” too; that is, policies to ensure that additional revenues to government compensate adequately for the additional costs to government as a result of the carbon cap. We compare the distributional impacts of two policy alternatives: (i) setting aside a portion of the revenue from carbon permit auctions for government, and distributing the remainder of the revenue to the public in the form of tax-free dividends; or (ii) distributing all of the carbon revenue to households as taxable dividends. The policy of recycling 100% of carbon revenue to the public as taxable dividends has the strongest progressive impact, yielding the biggest net monetary benefits for the largest majority of the people.
Hyperinsulinemia-euglycemia therapy: a useful tool in treating calcium channel blocker poisoning

Hyperinsulinemia-euglycemia (HIE) therapy, when initiated promptly and aggressively, may offer considerable advantages in the treatment of calcium channel blocker poisoning. Although its mechanism of action is uncertain, HIE improves the efficiency with which the poisoned myocardium uses metabolic fuel, the end result of which is improvements in inotropy and other cardiovascular parameters. Although HIE is not universally accepted, the reports included in the previous issue of Critical Care should prompt clinicians to consider HIE an appropriate therapy specifically for calcium channel blocker poisoning.
Linguistic Support of Receptionists for Shared Resources

This paper addresses linguistic issues that arise in providing support for shared resources in large scale concurrent systems. Our work is based on the Actor Model of computation which unifies the lambda calculus, the sequential stored-program and the object-oriented models of computation. We show how receptionists can be used to regulate the use of shared resources by scheduling their access and providing protection against unauthorized or accidental access. A shared financial account is an example of the kind of resource that needs a receptionist. Issues involved in the implementation of scheduling policies for shared resources are also addressed. The modularity problems involved in implementing servers which multiplex the use of physical devices illustrate how delegation aids in the implementation of parallel problem solving systems for communities of actors.
Chemical characterization of pH-dependent structural epitopes of lipopolysaccharides from Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar phaseoli.

Abstract Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was isolated from free-living Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. phaseoli CE3 cells grown at pH 4.8 (antigenically similar to bacteroid LPS) and compared with that from cells grown at pH 7.2 (free-living bacteria). Composition analysis revealed that pH 7.2 LPS differs from pH 4.8 LPS in that 2,3,4-tri-O-methylfucose is replaced by 2,3-di-O-methylfucose. The amount of 2-O-methylrhamnose is greater in the pH 4.8 LPS than in the pH 7.2 LPS. Analysis of the structural components of LPS (O-chain polysaccharide, core oligosaccharides, and the lipid A) revealed that all the composition differences in the various LPSs occur in the O-chain polysaccharide. These structural variations between pH 4.8 and pH 7.2 LPSs provide a chemical basis for the observed lack of cross-reactivity with pH 4.8 LPS of two monoclonal antibodies, JIM28 and JIM29, raised against free-living bacteria grown at pH 7.2. An LPS preparation isolated from bacteroids contained both 2,3,4-tri-O- and 2,3-di-O-methylfucose residues. This result is consistent with the finding that the two monoclonal antibodies react weakly with bacteroid LPS. It is concluded that methylation changes occur on the LPS O-chain of R. leguminosarum bv. phaseoli when the bacteria are grown at low pH and during nodule development.
A Patient-Specific Computer Model for Prediction of Clinical Outcomes in the Cerebral Circulation Using MR Flow Measurements

A patient-specific, computer model of the cerebral circulation to predict cerebral blood flow and pressure is presented. The model is based on a previously reported numeric model consisting of a network of distensible vessels with pulsatile flow. The enhanced model uses a sector scheme to determine the efferent resistance distribution for a specific patient. An iterative algorithm was developed to determine the patient-specific efferent resistance distribution from in vivo cerebral blood flow measurements obtained using phase contrast magnetic resonance angiography (PCMRA). In comparison with PCMRA flow measurements and clinical outcomes, the enhanced model shows its ability to predict cerebral flow well in three patients who underwent a balloon occlusion of the carotid artery. A model that accurately predicts cerebral blood flow for different treatment scenarios can provide the surgeon with an invaluable tool in the management of complex cerebral vascular disorders.
MicroRNA regulation of viral immunity, latency, and carcinogenesis of selected tumor viruses and HIV.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) function as key regulators in immune responses and cancer development. In the contexts of infection with oncogenic viruses, miRNAs are engaged in viral persistence, latency establishment and maintenance, and oncogenesis. In this review, we summarize the potential roles and mechanisms of viral and cellular miRNAs in the host-pathogen interactions during infection with selected tumor viruses and HIV, which include (i) repressing viral replication and facilitating latency establishment by targeting viral transcripts, (ii) evading innate and adaptive immune responses via toll-like receptors, RIG-I-like receptors, T-cell receptor, and B-cell receptor pathways by targeting signaling molecules such as TRAF6, IRAK1, IKKe, and MyD88, as well as downstream targets including regulatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor α, interferon γ, interleukin 10, and transforming growth factor β, (iii) antagonizing intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways by targeting pro-apoptotic or anti-apoptotic gene transcripts such as the Bcl-2 family and caspase-3, (iv) modulating cell proliferation and survival through regulation of the Wnt, PI3K/Akt, Erk/MAPK, and Jak/STAT signaling pathways, as well as the signaling pathways triggered by viral oncoproteins such as Epstein-Barr Virus LMP1, by targeting Wnt-inhibiting factor 1, SHIP, pTEN, and SOCSs, and (v) regulating cell cycle progression by targeting cell cycle inhibitors such as p21/WAF1 and p27/KIP1. Further elucidation of the interaction between miRNAs and these key biological events will facilitate our understanding of the pathogenesis of viral latency and oncogenesis and may lead to the identification of miRNAs as novel targets for developing new therapeutic or preventive interventions.
Induction of collagenase mRNA in lapine articular chondrocytes by synovial factors and interleukin-1

Abstract The cDNA probe H-9, originally constructed to recognize a portion of the mRNA for lapine synovial collagenase, also hybridized with a RNA of the same size (~2.0 kb) isolated from activated lapine articular chondrocytes. Primary, monolayer cultures of lapine articular chondrocytes did not contain detectable amounts of this RNA, nor did they secrete measurable amounts of collagenase into their culture media. Following exposure to synovial factors, the chondrocytes contained high levels of collagenase mRNA, while their conditioned media had considerable collagenolytic activity. Collagenase mRNA started to appear in chondrocytes 3–5 h after treatment with the synovial material. Maximum levels occurred after 12–24 h. Recombinant human interleukin-1 also induced the appearance of this mRNA. We conclude that chondrocyte collagenase is likely to be the same gene product as synovial collagenase, and that its regulation by lapine articular chondrocytes probably occurs at a pretranslational level.
Nursing and transplant coordination: a call for clarity

Organ transplantation is a complex and highly regulated field. This review focuses on the role of nurses and transplant coordinators in solid organ transplantation, excluding both inpatient staff nursing and procurement activities. The literature describes a robust and autonomous transplant coordinator role; a key member of the multidisciplinary transplant team. Transplant coordinators facilitate patient care throughout all phases of transplantation. However, a lack of consensus on licensure and educational preparation of these important practitioners was evident from the review of literature. Synthesis of the data suggests that the role of transplant coordinator is not distinct but a description of a wide variety of functions, duties, and tasks that require varying levels of licensure and educational preparation. Greater clarity for both practitioners and consumers could be achieved by creating certification levels similar to nephrology nurses. As no transplant-specific staffing models or benchmarks were discovered, rigorous research regarding optimal staffing patterns is also recommended.
Patient-provider communication over social media: perspectives of adolescents with psychiatric illness.

Background Social media is an increasingly dominant platform for communication, especially among adolescents. Statements from professional bodies and a growing body of empirical evidence support a role for social media in improving provider–patient interactions. In psychiatry, particular concerns exist about the suitability of this style of communication. Very limited data are available exploring how patients would like to incorporate social media into their communication with their psychiatric providers. Methods We conducted a qualitative study with 20 adolescents attending the Yale Psychiatric Hospital Intensive Outpatient Programme. Interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results Participants highlighted how social media could allow for constant access to a mental health provider, provide a less anxiety-provoking mode of communication, and allow for them to be monitored in a more on-going fashion. However, participants also identified many potential risks associated with these applications, including the potential for anxiety if a provider was not able to respond immediately, and a sense that online interactions would be less rich overall. Discussion Our findings suggest that adolescents are open to the idea of communicating with mental health providers over social media and are able to describe a number of instances where this could be of value. The risks participants described, as well as concerns raised by existing literature, indicate the need for further work and protocol development in order for social media to be a feasible tool for communication between providers and adolescents with psychiatric illness.
FGF21 Mimetic Shows Therapeutic Promise

FGF21 is a protein with multiple metabolic actions, currently a bright star beckoning on the metabolic disease therapeutic horizon. Gaich et al. (2013) present the first clinical efficacy trial for an FGF21 mimetic, finding robust lipid-lowering effects, some reduction in body weight, but surprisingly modest effects on glucose homeostasis.
A technique for double resonant operation of birdcage imaging coils

The type of radio-frequency (RF) coil known as a high-pass birdcage consists of a set of N wires arranged axially on the surface of a cylinder and connected by capacitors at each end. Such coils are widely used for NMR imaging because of the high degree of field homogeneity they provide. It is shown how to create homogeneous fields at two frequencies, using an unequal distribution of capacitance. A theoretical analysis which uses the discrete Fourier transform of the currents with respect to the angular positions of the N wires is presented. A perturbation theory analysis indicates a small sacrifice in homogeneity. The root-mean-square deviation of field magnitude around a circle is proposed as a measure of field inhomogeneity. For the case of double resonance at proton and fluorine frequencies, the loss of homogeneity is at worst 1% and is small compared to the natural inhomogeneity for an N=8 wire coil for radii up to one half the coil radius. The presence of a conducting shield degrades the homogeneity. The theoretical ideas were confirmed in a computer simulation of one particular coil design. A working coil was constructed and images obtained of proton and fluorine phantoms. >
On solving hard problems by polynomial-size circuits

Abstract This paper introduces the notions of immunity, complexity core, and Church-randomness for the nonuniform complexity class of languages accepted by polynomial-size circuit families, usually denoted as P/Poly . While it is not known whether Dtime (2 poly ) is contained in P/Poly , we show that there exist languages in Exspace that have the property of being immune, or having dense complexity core, or being Church-random with respect to the class P/Poly . Proofs of these results are based on techniques in generalized Kolmogorov complexity theory.
Starter Culture Costs in Iowa Cheddar Cheese Plants

Abstract In developing Cheddar cheesemaking, suitable starter culture and rennet are of importance secondary only to milk. The initial cost of rennet per liter, or when calculated as cost per 0.454 kg of cheese, has been a tangible value. However, even if managers have determined their plant's starter costs, they may not have had an opportunity to compare them with those of other cheese factories. This information is provided. Several points are immediately apparent. If culture media constitute about 70% of the daily starter cost and labor contributes another 20%, starter rooms and equipment, seed cultures, and other necessary materials appear less expensive. For most plants, more sophisticated culture procedure, including frequent rotation, use of liquid nitrogen, and phage-inhibitory media would not affect plant profits except, perhaps, to improve them. In view of the wide variation in labor costs in starter making, plant operators should study their present systems. The high cost of starter media suggests a need for research on this problem.
Age Structure and Regeneration Dynamics of Sugar Maple at the Deciduous/Boreal Forest Ecotone, Ontario, Canada

Sugar maple reaches its northern limit along the eastern shore of Lake Superior marking the transition from the deciduous forest of eastern North America to a predominantly boreal forest community. In light of regional warming trends over the past 100 years and projections for even warmer conditions in the future, we sought to characterize the current age structure and regeneration status of both sugar maple and boreal tree species within this ecotone zone. Within Lake Superior Provincial Park (Ontario, Canada), a series of east-west trending hills create numerous deciduous-boreal transition zones as sugar maple occupies uplands and boreal species occupy valley bottoms; then, once north of the sugar maple limit, boreal species dominate all topographic positions. Unlogged forest stands were sampled in the transition zone on ridges and slopes both north and south of the sugar maple limit. Overall tree density and basal area in sugar maple and boreal stands were similar across the ecotone, but seedling densi...
GENETIC CONTROL OF ALBUMIN PHENOTYPES IN HORSES.

SummaryBy means of a starch-gel technique suggested by Kristjansson, 3 albumin phenotypes A, AB and B are demonstrable in the serum of horses. As indicated by data on the inheritance of these phenotypes and by a gene-frequency analysis of the distribution of the phenotypes in 2 breeds of horses, the results are consistent with the interpretation that the 3 phenotypes are controlled by a pair of codominant, autosomal alleles. These 3 phenotypes can be diagnosed by examining either the albumin region or the post-albumin region of the gels. Hence, diagnosis in one region serves as an independent check on the other.
Interception of rainfall by mature lodgepole‐pine

With increasing demands on available water-supplies for agricultural, industrial, and domestic use, the central Rocky Mountains have become one of the most important water-yielding areas in the western United States. Since the water-producing area of these mountain is largely occupied by national forests, a serious responsibility is borne by the Forest Service in providing proper land-management for the yield of usable water. As proper management requires a detailed knowledge of the influence of forests on water-yields, the Forest Service has started an intensive program of watershed research in the Rocky Mountain region.
Simultaneous determination of aspirin and salicylic acid in bulk aspirin and in plain, buffered, and enteric-coated tablets by high-pressure liquid chromatography with UV and fluorescence detectors

A quantitative high-pressure liquid chromatographic method that uses a reversed-phase column coupled to UV and fluorescence detectors was developed to determine aspirin and salicylic acid in bulk aspirin and in plain, buffered, and enteric-coated tablets. The aspirin was dissolved, filtered, and injected into the chromatograph. The UV absorbance of aspirin was determined at 254 nm, and the fluorescence of salicylic acid was measured at 425 nm. Excipients and impurities did not interfere. Recoveries of 100% were obtained for aspirin and salicylic acid from simulated tablet formulations. Results obtained by the USP XIX procedure and the proposed method were compared. The coefficient of variation for the aspirin analysis was 0.59%; for salicylic acid, it was 1.69%. The rate of hydrolysis of aspirin to salicylic acid in the solvents used was <0.05%/hr.
Exploiting genetic diversity by directed evolution: molecular breeding of type III polyketide synthases improves productivity.

Applying directed evolution to the phloroglucinol synthase PhlD from Pseudomonas fluorescensPf-5 has provided the first example of engineering enhanced productivity in a type III polyketide synthase, and a rare instance of improving the activity of a biosynthetic enzyme from secondary metabolism.
A microscopic form of the extended Kramers equation. A simple friction model for cis-trans isomerization reactions

Abstract A friction model for cis-trans isomerization is proposed. The friction is a linear combination of two limits, reflecting relative time scales of system and solvent motions. The resulting extended Kramers equation fits MD results exactly and is applicable to real isomerizing systems as well.
Flow-injection system for determination of critical micelle concentrations of ionic and nonionic surfactants

Abstract A practical technique is presented for the rapid, accurate determination of the critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) of ionic and nonionic surfactants. The precision, speed and instrumental simplicity of a flow-injection system are combined with a gradient chamber and flow-through conductance and absorbance detection to produce a system capable of determining the CMC of surfactant solutions in less than 30 min. The exponential response gradients from the resulting system are monitored by a chart recorder and simple manual calculations yield the CMC. The validity of the technique is verified by determination of the CMC values for both ionic (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and chloride and sodium dodecyl sulfate) and nonionic (Brij-35, Brij-56, Brij-99, Triton X-100) surfactants. The proposed technique does not require the extensive solution preparation, repetitive measurements, complex instrumentation and data manipulation typical of other methods for determining CMCs.
Results of Penetrating Keratoplasty in 123 Eyes with Pseudophakic or Aphakic Corneal Edema

Abstract The clinical records of 123 eyes that received a penetrating keratoplasty for aphakic or pseudophakic corneal edema with a mean follow-up time of 18 months were studied retrospectively. Thirty-five eyes from which an intraocular lens (IOL—85% iris fixated) was removed at the time of keratoplasty were compared with 88 eyes that never had an IOL. The mean interval between initial cataract surgery and penetrating keratoplasty was 28 months for the pseudophakic group from which the IOL was removed and 67 months for the aphakic group without IOL. In both groups, 97% had an anterior vitrectomy. Corneal grafts remained clear in 91% of the previously pseudophakic eyes and in 81% of the aphakic eyes ( P ≤ 0.05). The final corrected visual acuity was worse in the pseudophakic eyes with IOL removed (16% saw 6/6 to 6/12 while 22% saw worse than 6/60) than in the aphakic eyes (34% saw 6/6 to 6/12 while 7% saw worse than 6/60). Postoperative maculopathy occurred in 43% of eyes from which IOLs were removed and in 22% of aphakic eyes.
The Zap1 transcriptional activator also acts as a repressor by binding downstream of the TATA box in ZRT2

The zinc-responsive transcriptional activator Zap1 regulates the expression of both high- and low-affinity zinc uptake permeases encoded by the ZRT1 and ZRT2 genes. Zap1 mediates this response by binding to zinc-responsive elements (ZREs) located within the promoter regions of each gene. ZRT2 has a remarkably different expression profile in response to zinc compared to ZRT1. While ZRT1 is maximally induced during zinc limitation, ZRT2 is repressed in low zinc but remains induced upon zinc supplementation. In this study, we determined the mechanism underlying this paradoxical Zap1-dependent regulation of ZRT2. We demonstrate that a nonconsensus ZRE (ZRT2 ZRE3), which overlaps with one of the ZRT2 transcriptional start sites, is essential for repression of ZRT2 in low zinc and that Zap1 binds to ZRT2 ZRE3 with a low affinity. The low-affinity ZRE is also essential for the ZRT2 expression profile. These results indicate that the unusual pattern of ZRT2 regulation among Zap1 target genes involves the antagonistic effect of Zap1 binding to a low-affinity ZRE repressor site and high-affinity ZREs required for activation.
Patient characteristics associated with the use of antidepressants among people diagnosed with DSM-IV mood disorders: Results from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication

ABSTRACTBackground: Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in the United States. However, research on antidepressant usage patterns in a large nationally representative sample is limited.Objectives: The aims of this study were (1) to examine factors associated with the use of antidepressants in patients with DSM-IV mood disorders, and (2) to determine reasons for inadequate and non-persistent medication taking behaviors.Research design and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R) dataset in the U.S. People within the dataset with DSM-IV mood disorders were qualified as the sample population (n = 1798). Selected factors based on the Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use were assessed among antidepressant users (n = 473) and nonusers (n = 1322). The logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between the dependent variable, the use of antidepressants, and the independent variables, predisposing, ...
Mars Science Laboratory focused technology program overview

The Mars Technology Program (MTP) is part of the NASA Mars Exploration Program (MEP). The purpose of MTP is to develop technologies needed for future Mars missions, including Mars Scouts. The two principle program elements of MTP are the focused technology and the base technology programs. The focused technology program addresses technologies that are specific and critical to near-term missions, while the base technology program addresses those technologies that are applicable for multiple missions and which can be characterized as longer term, higher risk, and high payoff technologies. This paper describes the MTP focused technology program for the 2009 Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission outlining the mission's technical and project challenges including infusion of time-critical technology deliverables, and the process, procedures, tools and people involved in meeting those challenges. Critical technologies for this mission are: entry, descent, and landing system, Mars lander engine, long-life, extreme environment actuators, sample acquisition/sample processing and handling system, advanced rover technologies, mobility technologies, and integrated simulation tool.
A Study of the Fever-Producing Principle in the Typhoid Vaccine.

Conclusions1. The fever-producing principle in typhoid vaccine and in broth in which B. typhosus has grown for 48 hours is not removed by Berkefeld filtration. The principle is, therefore, not bound to the bacterial bodies.2. The principle is removed by a 200-second Zsigmondy filter and is, therefore, of approximately the same size as the principle previously found in reactive inulin and infusion-fluids.3. Like “pyrogen” found in inulin and in infusion-fluids, it is removed by filtration through asbestos pads of the types of Seitz and Ertel.4. On the basis of the clinical response provoked by intravenous injection, and the filtration characteristics, it is submitted that the fever-producing principle associated with B. typhosus and the “pyrogen” found in infusion-fluids and inulin are closely related substances.
Delayed Punishment of Positively Reinforced Bar Presses

Combining positive and negative reinforcement (both being electrical stimulation of the brain) for lever pressing by 4 rats produced a gradient of suppression as the 2 qualities of reinforcement we...
N,N′-disubstituted dithiooxamide grease thickeners

Abstract Metal chelates of N,N′-disubstituted dithiooxamide were investigated for their potential as grease thickeners. It was found that three selected materials did thicken fluids to grease consistencies. The three materials were: N,N′-dimethyldithiooxamido cobalt (N,N′-DMDTO Co), N,N′-dimethyl dithiooxamido zinc (N,N′-DMDTO Zn), and dithiooxanilino zinc (DTOA Zn). The dithiooxamides have been found to be an excellent new class of thickeners. They demonstrate high thermal and oxidative stability and are efficient thickeners for a wide variety of synthetic fluids. It is shown that a two-component grease system can be prepared from them and will function as an extreme-pressure, antiwear grease without the introduction of other additives.
The Effect of Indomethacin on Eggshell Quality

The objective of the present study was to determine whether indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, could improve shell quality in birds laying a high incidence (greater than 15%) of soft-shelled (SS) and shell-less (SL) eggs and in birds laying exclusively hard-shelled (HS) eggs. Treatments consisted of two injection types, indomethacin or oil (controls), and two injection times, 4 h or 16 h postentrance of the egg into the uterus. Indomethacin delayed oviposition in both HS and SS or SL egg layers, with indomethacin being more effective in delaying oviposition when injected at 16 h as compared with 4 h postentrance of an egg into the uterus. Indomethacin increased shell thickness of the first egg laid following injection in the SS or SL groups but not in the HS groups. Egg weight was not affected by indomethacin injection. It was concluded that indomethacin delayed oviposition and prevented the premature expulsion of some SS or SL eggs. This delay in oviposition resulted in thicker shells of the first egg laid postinjection.
Inherent Dynamic Operability of Processes: General Definitions and Analysis of SISO Cases

An optimization-based approach is presented for assessing and enhancing the dynamic operability characteristics of processes. A dynamic operability measure is used that captures the dynamic performance based on how quickly a system can react to changes in the nominal operating conditions. The measure is evaluated using an open-loop optimal control formulation and, therefore, provides an upper bound on the achievable control performance of the process. Some key operating spaces are defined representing the ranges of desired outputs, expected disturbances, and available inputs. A dynamic operability index, referred to as the dOI, is defined based on this measure and the operating spaces, quantifying the dynamic performance of the process over the entire ranges of the desired outputs and anticipated disturbances. The dOI gives a quantitative figure of the extent to which the desired dynamic performance requirements can be achieved with the available input ranges. The measure is further used in an optimizatio...
Facial bone fractures in children

From the aforementioned study, the following conclusions can be stated: (1) Patients ranged from 2 to 15 years of age, with no one age group being more susceptible to facial fractures. This fact is contrary to previous findings. (2) No true orbital blow-out fractures were found in patients less thn 7 years of age, primarily because of the lack of maxillary sinus development in that age group. The most rapid development of the maxillary sinus occurs between the ages of 7 to 15 years. (3) In patients from 2 to 7 years of age, fractures occurred at an even ratio of boys and girls. From 8 to 15 years of age there was a boy: girl ratio of about 4.5:1. Of the sixty-seven total patients in the study, boys outnumbered girls by a ratio fo 2.4:1. In order, the condyle, orbit, and mandible were the most common fracture sites observed in the study. This fact is in agreement with past studies. There was no predominant site for any age group or sex. While falls were singly responsible for the greatest number of facial fractures, automobile-related trauma accounted for 47.7 percent of facial fractures in children. In the majority of cases multiple mandibular fractures were of the bilateral condylar type. Hospitalization of patients with automobile-related fractures was approximately 3 days longer than that of patients whose fractures occurred from other causes. More than two thirds of the patients in the study had associated trauma-related medical and dental injuries.
Superior hypogastric plexus block successfully treats severe penile pain after transurethral resection of the prostate

Background and Objectives Superior hypogastric plexus block has been used to treat cancer pain of the pelvis. Methods A patient with severe chronic nonmalignant penile pain after transurethral resection of the prostate underwent a single superior hypogastric plexus block with local anesthetic and steroid. The patient was also started on medications that treat neuropathic pain a few hours after the procedure was finished. Results The superior hypogastric plexus block resulted in complete pain relief immediately after the procedure. The pain relief continued at 1, 2, 4, and 8 months follow up. Conclusions In this case of severe penile pain the superior hypogastric plexus block was useful diagnostically and therapeutically.
Functional evidence for the role of axolemma in CNS myelination

A direct role for neurons in CNS myelination has yet to be demonstrated. CNS myelination can be examined in cerebellar slice cultures, which faithfully reproduce both synthesis and wrapping of myelin. In an attempt to demonstrate a role for axolemma in this process, we generated more than 2000 axolemma-reactive monoclonal antibodies. One clone, G21.3, repeatedly blocked myelination in cerebellar slices, as documented by both biochemistry and morphology. The antibody caused a dramatic reduction in myelin lipid and protein synthesis. CNS white matter, sciatic nerve, and neuronal cultures were positively stained with G21.3, whereas oligodendrocytes and myelin were fully negative. The antibody identified a restricted number of proteins in purified axolemma. These results suggest a direct involvement of axons in CNS myelination.
Upper GI tract findings in patients with heartburn in whom proton pump inhibitor treatment failed versus those not receiving antireflux treatment.

Background Failure of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment in patients with heartburn is very common. Because endoscopy is easily accessible, it is commonly used as the first evaluative tool in these patients. Objective To compare GERD-related endoscopic and histologic findings in patients with heartburn in whom once-daily PPI therapy failed versus those not receiving antireflux treatment. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting A Veterans Affairs hospital. Patients Heartburn patients from the GI outpatient clinic. Intervention Recording of endoscopic results. Main outcome measurements Endoscopic findings and association between PPI treatment failure and esophageal mucosal injury by using logistic regression models. Results A total of 105 subjects (mean age 54.7 ± 15.7 years; 71 men, 34 women) were enrolled in the PPI treatment failure group and 91 (mean age 53.4 ± 15.8 years; 68 men, 23 women) were enrolled in the no-treatment group ( P = not significant). Anatomic findings during upper endoscopy were significantly more common in the no-treatment group compared with the PPI treatment failure group (55.2% vs 40.7%, respectively; P = .04). GERD-related findings were significantly more common in the no-treatment group compared with the PPI treatment failure group (erosive esophagitis: 30.8% vs 6.7%, respectively; P Conclusions Heartburn patients in whom once-daily PPI treatment failed demonstrated a paucity of GERD-related findings compared with those receiving no treatment. Eosinophilic esophagitis was uncommon in PPI therapy failure patients. Upper endoscopy seems to have a very low diagnostic yield in this patient population.
Scanning apertureless fluorescence microscope

We describe a near-field apertureless fluorescence microscope, capable of imaging fluorescent latex beads with subwavelength precision. The instrument is based on a home- built tapping-mode atomic-force microscope, to which an inverted optical microscope was added. The fact that the wavelength of the fluorescence that we observe is different from the wavelength of the illumination allows for a relatively straightforward detection mechanism. Sample images are presented, along with evidence that the observe effect is of optical origin.
Channel access protocols for multihop opportunistic networks: challenges and recent developments

Heavy traffic over the unlicensed portion of the spectrum along with inefficient usage of the licensed spectrum gave impetus for a new spectrum allocation policy, the main purpose of which is to improve spectrum efficiency through opportunistic spectrum access. Cognitive radios have been proposed as a key enabling technology for such an opportunistic policy. One of the key challenges to enabling multihop CR communications is how to perform opportunistic medium access control while limiting the interference imposed on licensed users. In this article we highlight the unique characteristics of multihop cognitive radio networks, discuss key MAC design challenges specific to such networks, and present some of the work that has been done on MAC design for CRNs.
Comparison of the whiplash injury criteria

Whiplash injury criteria are based upon the hypothesis that neck injuries are caused by excessive loads, displacements, or head/T1 relative acceleration and velocity. The objectives of this study were to evaluate and compare the whiplash injury criteria (IV-NIC, NIC, Nkm, Nij, and NDC) during simulated rear impacts of a new Human Model of the Neck (HUMON) with and without an active head restraint (AHR). HUMON consisted of a neck specimen mounted to the torso of BioRID II and carrying an anthropometric head stabilized with muscle force replication. HUMON was seated and secured in a Kia Sedona seat with AHR on a sled. Rear impacts (7.1 and 11.1g) were simulated with the AHR in five different positions followed by an impact with no HR. Statistical differences (P or = 0.35 and P < 0.001). The AHR caused significant decreases in peak NIC and NDC as compared to no HR. The IV-NIC identified significantly increased motion above the physiologic limit at the middle and lower cervical spine with and without the AHR. Correlation was observed between IV-NIC and NIC, Nkm, Nij, and NDC. Extrapolation using the present correlations and the IV-NIC injury thresholds suggests neck injuries may occur at peak NIC of 14.4m(2)/s(2), Nkm of 0.33, or Nij of 0.09. Nonphysiologic spinal rotation at one or more spinal levels may occur even if head/T1 motions are small.
Rhodium Complexes Containing a Tridentate Bis(8-quinolyl)methylsilyl Ligand: Synthesis and Reactivity

Synthesis of a series of rhodium complexes bearing a tridentate bis(8-quinolyl)methylsilyl (NSiN) ligand is reported. Bis(8-quinolyl)methylsilane (1) reacted with (PPh3)3RhCl via oxidative addition at the Si−H bond to afford (NSiN)Rh(H)Cl(PPh3) (2). Several coordinatively unsaturated, 16-electron complexes were synthesized, including the cationic complex [(NSiN)Rh(H)(PPh3)][B(C6F5)4] (3) and the neutral complex (NSiN)Rh(CH2Ph)2 (12). The X-ray structures of 3 and 12 reveal a square-pyramidal geometry about the Rh center, with the silyl group occupying an apical position. The dicationic complex [(NSiN)Rh(CH3CN)3][OTf]2 (11), synthesized by reaction of [(NSiN)RhCl2]2 (10) with 2 equiv of AgOTf in acetonitrile, exhibits moderate activity as a catalyst for alkene hydrogenation and for H/Cl exchange between Ph3SiH and CH2Cl2. Complex 2 reacts with 2 equiv of PhCH2MgCl in benzene to afford (NSiN)Rh(CH2Ph)Cl(PPh3) (6). Chlorination of 2 by DBU in CH2Cl2 afforded the solvent-activated Rh(III) product (NSiN)RhCl2(...
Competitive reasons for the Name-Your-Own-Price channel

This paper shows that the Name-Your-Own-Price (NYOP) business model can help soften competition. When consumers differ in their frictional costs (i.e., the shopping hassle) they experience when bidding at an NYOP retailer, the NYOP format can be a mechanism for differentiating a retailer from a posted-price rival. Beyond providing a motivation for using an NYOP mechanism, competition also has important implications for the optimal structure of the NYOP format. For example, this paper shows that prohibiting rebidding may benefit an NYOP firm by reducing price rivalry.
Endogenous opiates: 1983

This paper is the sixth in an annual series of reviews of research involving the endogenous opiates, each installment being restricted to work published during the previous year. Although the early articles in the series attempted to be comprehensive and cover the complete range of research with the opiate peptides, in the last two years we have limited our coverage to non-analgesic and behavioral work due to the enormous number of articles published in the field. The specific areas discussed here include stress, tolerance and dependence, consummatory responses, other gastrointestinal functions, interactions with alcohol, mental illness, learning and memory, cardiovascular responses, respiratory effects, thermoregulation, neurological disorders, activity, and miscellaneous other topics. As in previous years, we have attempted to present a relatively complete review of the subjects covered only for the previous year and generally have not tried to evaluate their contributions relative to those of past years.
New theory for giant loops.

Four very large, shell-shaped features are known from the surveys of radio emission from the Galaxy. It is suggested that the giant loops represent a class of nebulae, induced by supernova radiation as opposed to supernova ejecta. The model considered provides a qualitative explanation for the spectral and polarization properties of the radio emission from giant loops. The radio emitting electrons are part of the general cosmic ray gas and need not arise specifically in the supernova that produced the fossil Stroemgren sphere.
Angiotensin II receptor blockade during gestation attenuates collagen formation in the developing rat heart

Objective: Fetal cardiac development includes rapid formation of a three-dimensional collagen network, composed mainly of type I and III fibrillar collagens. Collagen fibrils have been found in cardiac jelly at very early stages of cardiac development and are thought to have structural and functional properties. In adult rat cardiac tissue, angiotensin II (AngII) via AT1 receptor binding and AngII-regulated expression of transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) each upregulate collagen transcription. AT1 and AT2 receptor subtypes are developmentally regulated; both have been localized in fetal tissue where the AT2 receptor is considered a determinant of morphogenesis. We sought to determine whether blockade of either receptor would result in attenuation of collagen mRNA expression and fibrillar collagen accumulation and alter TGF-β1 mRNA expression in the developing fetal heart examined at birth. Methods: Pregnant rats were treated either with an AT1 receptor antagonist losartan or an AT2 receptor antagonist PD123319 and compared with untreated age-matched controls. Offspring were studied within 24 h of birth. Type I and type III collagen mRNA expression, as well as TGF-β1 mRNA expression, were examined by in situ hybridization. Collagen concentration was determined spectrophotometrically by picrosirius red staining and type I and III collagens were detected by immunoblotting. Results: We found: (1) comparable birth weights in control and PD123319-treated animals, but reduced body weight in newborn losartan-treated animals; (2) compared to untreated animals, type I collagen and TGF-β1 mRNA expression in cardiac tissue were each equally reduced in both losartan and PD123319-treated animals; (3) increased type III collagen mRNA expression in both PD123319- and losartan-treated groups; and (4) a significant decrease in total soluble cardiac collagen concentration in both losartan and PD123319-treated groups, confirmed by attenuated immunoreactivity of type I and III collagens in whole heart extracts by Western blotting. Conclusions: The results of these pharmacologic interventions suggest AngII receptors are expressed in cardiac tissue during gestation, where both AT1 and AT2 receptors are involved in the regulation of type I and III collagen expression and structural protein accumulation. These effects appear to be mediated, in part, by attenuated cardiac TGF-β1 levels. The marked decrease in newborn cardiac collagen content has yet undefined functional consequences.
Unified nonlinear optimal flight control and state estimation of highly maneuverable aircraft

Abstract In this paper, a nonlinear flight control and a nonlinear state observer are designed in one unified framework for a high performance aircraft. The flight control is formulated as a nonlinear optimal control problem and the θ -D technique is utilized to design a closed-form optimal control law by solving the associated Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation approximately via a perturbation process. Motivated by the notion that control and estimation are dual concepts, a new θ -D observer is developed to estimate the state used in the feedback by constructing the dual of the θ -D controller. Theoretical analysis of the proposed observer is given. Since both the optimal flight control and the state observer are unified in the same θ -D algorithm that leads to closed-form solutions to the optimal control and observer gains, this scheme greatly facilitates onboard implementation due to its computation efficiency. The unified design method is applied to a highly maneuverable aircraft operating at high angles of attack. Simulation results show that the θ -D control- θ -D observer suite exhibits excellent performance.
Sarcoplasmic reticulum CaATPase: product inhibition suggests an allosteric site for ATP activation

Sarcoplasmic reticulum CaATPase hydrolysis of high concentrations of ATP was studied in the presence of ADP. The results obtained were best described as noncompetitive inhibition; added product lowered the Vmax but did not affect the slopes of Eadie-Hofstee plots. At these concentrations (0.5–5 mM), ATP is known to act as both a substrate and as an activator of turnover. The inability of ATP to overcome ADP inhibition suggests that activating ATP binds to an allosteric regulatory site rather than to the phosphorylated active site.