cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nanoscale deformations of polyimide with a force microscope

Grooves with nanometer scale dimensions can be fabricated on polymer surfaces by moving the tip of an atomic force microscope (AFM) across the surface at constant velocity and fixed applied force F. The grooves consist of a central trough with pile-ups on either side. These grooves are caused by plastic deformation and provide information about surface mechanical properties. We describe new results on the Kapton polyimide. Groove shapes are measured from AFM images taken with zero applied force. The grooves are sufficiently shallow that image artifacts due to the tip shape are unimportant. The surface yield strength is found to be about 125 MPa, as estimated from the applied force and the width of the smallest groove, and is comparable to the bulk tensile strength of 172 MPa. Grooves with pile-up heights that are large compared with the intrinsic surface roughness are found to have a universal shape when scaled to have the same heights and widths. Continuum mechanics models developed for point indentation...
Feelings of Negativity and Stress: An Averaging-Summation Analysis of Impressions of Negative Life Experiences:

Four studies were conducted to determine how a person feels after being exposed to a variety of negative life events. Individuals' reports of stress reflected an averaging process. Individuals reported feeling more negative (stressed) after being exposed to one highly negative event than after one highly negative and one mildly negative event. The reports also reflected a summation process; individuals reported feeling less negative after being exposed to one highly negative and one mildly negative event than after exposure to one highly negative and three or four mildly negative events. Discussion sets forth the implications of an averaging-summation (A.S.) model for stress and mood, for positive experiences, and for attitudes and impressions in general. When and in what type of context (both affective and informational) A.S. processes would operate is also discussed.
Risk of alcoholism and parental history: gender differences and a possible reporting bias.

Introduction Using data from a population-based study, we examined the association of parental history of heavy drinking and depressed mood with the occurrence of alcohol abuse and dependence in the participants, stratified on gender. We hypothesized that a parental history of heavy drinking or depressed mood would have a stronger association with the occurrence of alcohol abuse or dependence among women than among men. Methods. In 1981, collaborators in the National Institute of Mental Health Epidemiologic Catchment Area Program recruited 3,481 adult participants after probability sample selection of census tracts and households in Baltimore, Maryland. To assess the occurrence of psychiatric conditions over time, the Diagnostic Interview Schedule was administered soon after sampling and again at follow-up, roughly 1 year later. At the follow-up interview, parental history of psychiatric conditions was assessed. Individuals who did not complete either the baseline or follow-up interview, or who used a proxy informant were excluded from these analyses. These exclusions left 2,588 household residents who comprised the complete study sample, of which 384 had alcohol abuse or dependence. Results. The degree of association of alcoholism with parental history of heavy drinking or depressed mood is greater for women than for men. Men have an increased risk for alcohol abuse and dependence if they report that father has a history of heavy drinking (OR = 1.6, P < .01). For women, an alcohol disorder is associated with heavy drinking in fathers and in mothers (OR = 2.1, P < .01; OR = 2.6, P < .01, respectively). A similar pattern is found for a parental history of depressed mood. In addition, there is evidence of a possible reporting bias: Men and women with alcohol abuse or dependence are less likely to provide family information than participants without alcohol abuse or dependence. Among men, the presence of missing parental history information is significantly associated with alcohol abuse and dependence. Conclusion. The current report shows evidence for a gender difference in the relationship of parental history of heavy drinking and depression with the risk of alcoholism in offspring, and suggests that the effect of missing information should be considered when analyzing family data. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Characteristics of action potentials recorded from cat spinal ganglion neurons in vivo

Action potentials were recorded intracellularly from L4-S1 dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons of anesthetized cats. Based on the shape of their waveforms the action potentials were classified as either typical (n = 49) or atypical (n = 8). The atypical potentials were characterized by a slowly rising, well-defined early depolarization of small amplitude and long duration. This kind of prepotential randomly triggered spike potentials with varying latencies. The average rise time, duration, and area of atypical potentials were significantly different than those of typical ones. In some DRG neurons, the afterhyperpolarization was preceded by a delayed repolarization, or was followed by postspikes and long-lasting afteroscillations. In others, small depolarizations could be recorded during subthreshold stimulation. These depolarizations arose slightly later than the spike potential, and were all or none, with relatively stable onset latency and size. These results are explained by postulating the presence of chemical synapses and/or electrotonic coupling in the DRG.
Heart rate variability does not tap putative efficacy of Thought Field Therapy.

Callahan (2001) has offered a series of case reports in an effort to validate the rationale and methods of Thought Field Therapy (TFT). These case reports employ subjective ratings, that is, the Subjective Units of Distress (SUD) rating scale as well as a gross measure of heart rate variability (HRV). My criticisms center around (a) inappropriately strong inferences given exclusive reliance on case reports, a potentially biased sample, and lack of appropriate controls; (b) misinterpretation of statistical artifact as systematic effect; (c) lack of systematic evaluation of HRV changes; and (d) erroneous interpretation of HRV. Callahan's article provides no evidence for the efficacy of TFT nor does it provide evidence for the credibility of TFT's rationale. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Psychol 57: 1187–1192, 2001.
On the formation of voids in thin-film metal interconnects

Abstract A micromechanism of void formation, with emphasis on the kinetic process of void nucleation, in thin-film metal interconnects is proposed. The pre-existing debonded or weakly bonded area at the interface between the metal and the surrounding dielectric serves as the void initiation site. Numerical modeling of the evolving shear stress resolved on the slip systems during cooling from the fabrication temperature is performed. The resulting shear mode is used to construct a dislocation slip model. The mechanism of crystallographic slip is such that lateral thinning at the debond region, together with the slip step produced at the edges of debond lead to a net transport of atoms away from the debond and a physical void is thus formed.
The Future of Institutional Effectiveness.

Forces inside and outside community colleges are changing the context for performance and mandating new conceptions of effectiveness.
Sequence parameters that determine specificity of binding of the replication-associated protein to its cognate site in two strains of tomato leaf curl virus-New Delhi.

The DNA binding sites for the replication-associated protein (Rep) of two strains of tomato leaf curl virus from New Delhi (ToLCV-Nde) were identified using electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs). The Rep proteins of the two strains were found to exhibit sequence specificity in recognition of their cognate repeat motifs (iterons) in the origin, despite the fact that they share 91% sequence identity. Using a series of synthetic oligonucleotides as probes in EMSAs, the interaction of Rep protein with its binding site was found to be dependent on number, size, and sequence of the two iterons. Mutations in the sequence of the repeat motifs or alteration in the arrangement of the motifs compromised the ability of Rep protein to bind the DNA sequence and reduced accumulation of viral DNA in protoplasts, suggesting that binding of Rep protein to its cognate iterons is an essential step in virus replication. In addition, a difference in sequence of two base pairs in the binding site of two ToLCV-Nde strains was found to affect DNA binding by the corresponding Rep protein and replication of the virus DNA in protoplasts.
Influence of culture parameters on lignin metabolism by Phanerochaete chrysosporium

Culture parameters influencing metabolism of synthetic14C-lignins to14CO2 in defined media have been studied in shallow batch cultures of the ligninolytic wood-destroying HymenomycetePhanerochaete chrysosporium Burds. Study of the effect of O2 concentration in the gas phase above non-agitated cultures indicated essentially complete absence of attack on the lignin polymer at 5% O2 in N2, and a 2- to 3-fold enhancement by 100% O2 as compared to air (21% O2). Agitation of the cultures resulting in the formation of mycelial pellets greatly suppressed lignin decomposition. The optimum culture pH for lignin decomposition was 4 to 4.5, with marked suppression above 5.5 and below 3.5. The source of nutrient nitrogen (NO 3 − , NH 4 + , amino acids) had little influence on lignin decomposition, but the concentration of nitrogen was critical; decomposition at 24 mM was only 25–35% of that at 2.4 mM N. Thiamine was the only vitamin required for growth and lignin decomposition. Under the optimum conditions developed, decomposition of 5 mg of synthetic lignin was accompanied by utilization of approximately 100 mg of glucose. The influence of the various culture parameters was analogous for metabolism of synthetic lignin labeled in the ring-,side chain-, and methoxyl carbon atoms.
BRAF targeted therapy changes the treatment paradigm in melanoma

After decades of stagnation, recent therapeutic advances in melanoma seem on the horizon. The discovery of the genetic underpinnings of this historically refractory disease has exposed potential targets for therapy, BRAF mutations being principal among them. In the 8 years following the discovery of BRAF mutations in 50-60% of advanced melanomas, only recently have potent and selective inhibitors of this intracellular signaling molecule shown efficacy from early clinical testing. Vemurafenib (PLX4032) and GSK2118436, two orally available and well tolerated agents are on the verge of transforming the landscape of melanoma therapy based on the promising results of their respective phase I, II, and III trials.
A Unified Approach to Construct Search Trees in Parallel

We present a unified parallel algorithm for constructing various search trees. The tree construction is based on a unified scheme, called bottom-level balancing, which constructs a height balanced search tree having a uniform distribution of keys. The algorithm takes O(loglogN) time using N/loglogN processors on the EREW PRAM model, and 0(1) time with N processors on the CREW PRAM model, where N is the number of keys in the tree.
The assessment of anger and hostility: a critical review

While the emotion of anger has become an increasingly important part of clinical assessment, the theoretical and psychometric adequacy of the instruments used to assess anger and hostility have long been questioned. In the present review, we first provide definitions of anger and hostility in order to provide a theoretical context from which to evaluate the scope of current measures of these constructs. Second, we review the major self-report scales used to assess anger and hostility in light of these definitions and provide a detailed evaluation of psychometric evidence concerning their reliability and validity. Finally, we offer specific recommendations concerning how anger and hostility assessment instruments can be improved and expanded. In particular, we note the need for (a) an expansion of anger assessment methods beyond traditional endorsement approaches, (b) scales to assess specific domains of anger experience, (c) scales that assess unique content domains of anger experience and expressions, such as spouse-specific or driving-related anger scales, and (d) scales that assess the clinical aspects of the anger construct.
Plantar tactile sensory thresholds in healthy men and women

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to determine tactile sensory threshold levels on the plantar surface of the feet in healthy subjects as well as assessing if differences existed based on gender or between extremities. Method Forty subjects, 20 men and 20 women, consented to participate in the study. Tactile sensory thresholds were determined over the heel, lateral midfoot, medial midfoot, lateral forefoot, medial forefoot, and hallux on the plantar surface of the foot using Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments. A multiple-step algorithm was used for testing and the subject determined the tactile threshold for a region verbally. Results The results indicate that plantar tactile sensation does not differ between the left and right feet, but differences do exist between men and women in all regions except the hallux. The heel region tactile threshold was found to be significantly higher than all other regions. The mean tactile sensitivity for both the right and left feet was the 3.61 monofilament. Conclusions This is one of few investigations that have attempted to assess plantar sensory thresholds in a healthy group of men and women. The findings of this study may prove useful for further investigation into the assessment of the effect of foot orthoses and insoles on the cutaneous tactile sensory system.
Application of the time-dependent close-coupling approach to few-body atomic and molecular ionizing collisions

We review the recent progress made in applying the time-dependent close-coupling approach to ionizing collisions of electrons, photons, and ions with small atoms and molecules. The last twenty years have seen a proliferation of non-perturbative approaches applied to fundamental atomic and molecular scattering processes. Such processes form the building blocks of describing the dynamics of plasmas over a wide range of temperatures and densities, and also provide insight into the long-range Coulomb interactions between charged particles. Studies of the few-body Coulomb problem presented in electron, photon, or ion-impact ionization of small atoms and molecules, by direct solution of the time-dependent Schrodinger equation, are particularly useful because the complicated three-body boundary conditions of more than one continuum particle in a Coulomb potential are not required. With the continuing growth and increasing availability of high-performance computing resources, such methods can now be applied to a wide variety of scattering processes. The recent progress made using such a time-dependent approach is described in this colloquium. In this paper, we focus on the recent results obtained for one-, two-, and three-electron systems, thus building on a previous review of the time-dependent close-coupling method [M.S. Pindzola et al., J. Phys. B 40, R39 (2007)], which also described the application to multi-electron targets.
Therapy Insight: cardiovascular disease in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus

In 15-20% of cases, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) presents before the age of 18 years, and such early-onset SLE seems to be particularly severe. SLE is an independent risk factor for premature atherosclerosis and death in young, premenopausal women with SLE, even after controlling for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Children and adolescents with SLE are particularly susceptible to this long-term threat to their cardiovascular health because they have an increased disease severity and a lengthy disease burden. Factors that contribute to premature atherosclerosis include the inflammatory and immune abnormalities that are intrinsic to SLE, primary dyslipidemias, and the secondary effects of treatments such as corticosteroids. However, few rheumatologists provide appropriate preventive or management strategies for the increased atherosclerosis risk in this age-group. Screening should be performed on a regular basis, including evaluation of, and counseling for, traditional risk factors. Studies of treatment in pediatric patients are limited, and treatment strategies are often extrapolated from adult studies. Statins hold promise because they have both lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects. There have been few studies of the use of statins in adults or adolescents with SLE; however, trials are currently underway to address the safety and efficacy of statin use in pediatric SLE.
A simple pressure drop correlation equation for low finned tube crossflow heat exchangers

Abstract A simple and relatively accurate pressure drop correlation equation is presented for low-finned tube crossflow heat exchangers with staggered tube arrangements. Eighty nine previously published data points were used in the determination of the equation and these cover a Reynolds number range of 885 to 713,000. The range of the error between the predicted values of the friction factor using the proposed equation and the measured values is from −16.7% to 19.9% with a mean absolute error of 5.98%.
Biochemical characterization of histamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase in mammalian brain.

Abstract Certain biochemical characteristics of an adenylate cyclase that is activated by low concentrations of histamine ( K a , 8 μ m ) and that is present in cell-free preparations from the dorsal hippocampus of guinea pig brain have been studied. Histamine increased the maximal reaction velocity of adenylate cyclase without altering the K m (0.18 m m ) for its substrate, MgATP. Increasing concentrations of free Mg 2+ stimulated enzymatic activity; the kinetic properties of this activation by Mg 2+ suggest the existence of a Mg 2+ allosteric site on the enzyme. Histamine increased the affinity of this apparent site for free Mg 2+ . Free ATP was a competitive inhibitor with respect to the MgATP substrate. The apparent potency of free ATP as an inhibitor increased in the presence of histamine. In the presence of Mg 2+ , low concentrations of Ca 2+ markedly inhibited adenylate cyclase activity; half-maximal inhibition of both basal and histamine-stimulated enzyme activity occurred at 40 μ m Ca 2+ . Other divalent cations, including Zn 2+ , Cu 2+ , and Cd 2+ , were also inhibitory. Of the divalent cations tested, only Co 2+ and Mn 2+ could replace Mg 2+ in supporting histamine-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. The nucleoside triphosphates GTP and ITP increased basal adenylate cyclase activity and markedly potentiated the stimulation by histamine. Preincubation of adenylate cyclase with 5′-guanylylimidodiphosphate dramatically increased enzyme activity; in this activated state, the adenylate cyclase was relatively refractory to further stimulation by histamine or F − . The subcellular distribution of histamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity was studied in subfractions from guinea pig cerebral cortex. The highest total and specific activities were observed in those fractions enriched in nerve endings, while adenylate cyclase activity was not detectable in the brain cytosol fraction. A possible physiological role for this histamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase in neuronal function is discussed.
The nucleotide sequence of the cDNA coding for the human dihydrofolic acid reductase

The nucleotide sequence of the human dihydrofolic acid reductase (DHFR) reading frame has been derived from the analysis of human DHFR cDNA. This sequence and the corresponding amino acid sequence have been compared with those available for the enzyme and its coding segment from other organisms. There is an 89% nucleotide sequence homology between the human DHFR reading frame and the mouse coding sequence. Furthermore, amino acid-sequence homologies of 74%, 81% and 89% has been found between human DHFR and chicken, bovine and mouse DHFR, respectively.
Frequency of left atrial thrombi by transesophageal echocardiography in idiopathic and in ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy

Abstract Systemic emboli occur in dilated cardiomyopathy (DC) at an annual rate of about 4%. 1 Left ventricular thrombus is often considered the source for embolic events in DC. 2 A relation between left ventricular thrombi and rate of embolic events, however, has not been found in a recent study. 3 Left atrial thrombi may constitute an alternative source for systemic embolism in DC. 4
Ocular Oxidants and Antioxidant Protection

Oxidative damage and antioxidant protection in ocular tissues has not been reviewed recently. Metabolism in the eye is of increasing interest because the organ is highly susceptible to damage by sunlight, oxygen, various chemicals, and pollutants. Interest is expected to increase because of an aging Western world population and a continued depletion of stratospheric ozone. Hydrogen peroxide is discussed because it is both a byproduct and a source of free radical reactions and is normally present in the aqueous humor. The metabolism of reactive oxygen species by enzymes, nutrients, pigments, and low molecular weight scavengers is evaluated. Ascorbic acid, because of its high concentration in the eye, is thought to be a primary substrate in ocular protection; progress in determining the mechanisms by which it is recycled and maintained in the useful, reduced state is discussed. Recent information is included about antioxidants not previously known to be present in the eye, and some importance is placed on the properties of the vitreous humor and tear fluid because of the previous lack of emphasis on these.
Relationship between local family physician supply and influenza vaccination after controlling for individual and neighborhood effects

Background Family physicians (FPs) play an important role in influenza vaccination. We investigated how local FP supply is associated with influenza vaccination, controlling for both individual-level and county-level characteristics. Methods The 2008-2010 individual-level data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were merged with county-level data from the Area Resource File (n = 985,157). Multivariate logistic analyses were performed to predict influenza vaccination using the number of FPs per 1000 population as the key predictor, adjusting for individual-level demographic, socioeconomic, and health information, as well as county-level racial composition and income level. Additional analyses were performed across racial/ethnic and employment status categories. Results Increasing local FP supply was associated with higher odds (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.49-1.67) and varied across racial/ethnic groups (Hispanic: aOR, 2.05, 95% CI, 1.55-2.72; non-Hispanic white: aOR, 1.57, 95% CI, 1.48-1.66; non-Hispanic black: aOR, 1.49, 95% CI, 1.18-1.89), employment status categories, and county types. Conclusions FP supply was significantly associated with influenza vaccination. The association was greatest among those who were Hispanic, residing in a rural area, or out of work. Our findings lend support to initiatives aimed at increasing the FP supply, particularly among disadvantaged populations.
Approaches to adolescent reproductive health: audience-specific strategies.

Adolescents do not comprise a homogeneous group. While the age range for adolescence is generally 10-19 years age alone is not enough to determine identity as an adolescent. The great diversity among adolescents demands that they be segmented into clear subgroups and categories if their needs are to be clearly identified and adequately addressed. The author suggests the following major subgroups for the purpose of planning reproductive health education and promotion strategies: in-school youths married or engaged in union and other sexually active. This segmentation is intended to make it easier for reproductive health professionals and information education and communication specialists to establish a framework for meeting the reproductive health needs of adolescents. The author notes that these categories are not mutually exclusive and each category may have subcategories. Moreover the significance of each group and subgroup for reproductive health will change from one culture to another. The subgroups are described and discussed.
Enhanced binding of radioligands to receptors of gamma-aminobutyric acid and benzodiazepine by a new anticonvulsive agent, LY81067.

A diaryltriazine, LY81067, effectively protects against pentylenetetrazole- and picrotoxin-induced convulsions in mice, with ED50 values of 5.7 and 5.8 mg/kg i.p., respectively. LY81067 enhances the binding of both 3H-GABA and 3H-flunitrazepam to specific sites in rat brain membranes. The degree of enhancement by LY81067 varies from one brain region to another and is different for the binding of 3H-GABA and 3H-flunitrazepam. In cortical membranes, LY81067 increases the affinity of 3H-GABA for both high and low affinity sites and increases the number of sites. LY81067 increases the affinity of 3H-flunitrazepam for its binding sites without greatly increasing the number of sites. Like the pyrazolopyridines, the enhancement of 3H-flunitrazepam binding by LY81067 is dependent on chloride or related anions and is reversed by picrotoxin, suggesting that LY81067 exerts its anticonvulsant effects by binding to or near picrotoxin binding sites. The differential effects of LY81067 on the enhancements of 3H-GABA and 3H-flunitrazepam binding in several brain regions suggest extensive multiplicity of GABA/benzodiazepine/picrotoxin/anioin receptor complexes.
Aspects of Feeding in Caprella Californica Stimpson and Caprella Equilibra Say (Amphipoda) 1)

[Die Hauptnahrung von Caprella californica und Caprella equilibra besteht aus im Wasser schwimmenden organischen Partikeln und abgeschurften Substratteilen. Ein Grossteil dieser Substanzen wird unverandert durch den Verdauungsapparat ausgeschieden. Die Nahrung besteht auch aus Diatomeen, Dinoflagellaten, Suctorien und Foraminiferen. Caprelliden leben ferner von abgestorbenen Krustentieren oder machen Jagd auf lebende Beute. Beide Arten scheinen Opportunisten zu sein, da sie die Organismen verzehren, die in ihrer Umgebung zu finden sind. Man kann sie auch als Filter betrachten. In der erforschten Umgebung war die Nahrung in keiner Weise als limitierender Faktor anzusehen., Die Hauptnahrung von Caprella californica und Caprella equilibra besteht aus im Wasser schwimmenden organischen Partikeln und abgeschurften Substratteilen. Ein Grossteil dieser Substanzen wird unverandert durch den Verdauungsapparat ausgeschieden. Die Nahrung besteht auch aus Diatomeen, Dinoflagellaten, Suctorien und Foraminiferen. Caprelliden leben ferner von abgestorbenen Krustentieren oder machen Jagd auf lebende Beute. Beide Arten scheinen Opportunisten zu sein, da sie die Organismen verzehren, die in ihrer Umgebung zu finden sind. Man kann sie auch als Filter betrachten. In der erforschten Umgebung war die Nahrung in keiner Weise als limitierender Faktor anzusehen.]
Consistent massive anomalous dimensions

Abstract We re-evaluate the O(g2) momentum-subtracted anomalous dimensions of QCD with massive quarks. The QCD equations of motion are used to relate operator matrix elements with different tensor structures. This procedure yields explicitly gauge-invariant anomalous dimensions. Our results differ slightly from those in the literature. The forward Compton amplitude for scattering of massive quarks and a scalar current is examined. The large Q2 behavior of this amplitude is shown to be simply related to the momentum-subtracted, mass-dependent anomalous dimension.
RNA-mediated genome rearrangement: hypotheses and evidence.

Editor's suggested further reading in BioEssays How chromatin prevents genomic rearrangements: Locus colocalization induced by transcription factor binding Abstract
US nulliparas' perceptions of roles and of the birth experience as predictors of their delivery preferences

Abstract Objective to develop a model for understanding predictors of nulliparas' delivery preferences: provider type, setting, mode of delivery and the use/avoidance of pain medication. Design a cross-sectional, descriptive, self-administered, web-based survey. The sample was composed of nulliparous women aged 18–40, living in the US and pregnant at 20 or fewer weeks' gestation ( n =344). Data were analysed using structural equation modelling. Findings women who regard their active participation as effective and essential to the childbearing process are more likely to prefer the care of a midwife, the home as the birth setting, vaginal delivery and the avoidance of pain medication compared to women who see their role as a passive one. When women perceive their provider's role to be more central to the delivery process than their own, they are likely to prefer the care of a physician and the hospital setting. If the provider's role is seen as a collaborative one, women are likelier to prefer midwifery care and planned home birth. The more painful and fearful a woman expects the delivery experience to be, the more likely she is to prefer a caesarean delivery to vaginal birth. Key conclusions women's perceptions of (a) their role in pregnancy and delivery, (b) their providers' role in assisting them and (c) the nature of the delivery experience are effective predictors of their delivery preferences. Implications for practice providers can help ensure that the informational resources that influence women's perceptions about delivery are factual and evidence-based.
Significant calendar period deviations in testicular germ cell tumors indicate that postnatal exposures are etiologically relevant.

The current working model of type II testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) pathogenesis states that carcinoma in situ arises during embryogenesis, is a necessary precursor, and always progresses to cancer. An implicit condition of this model is that only in utero exposures affect the development of TGCT in later life. In an age-period-cohort analysis, this working model contends an absence of calendar period deviations. We tested this contention using data from the SEER registries of the United States. We assessed age-period-cohort models of TGCTs, seminomas, and nonseminomas for the period 1973–2008. Analyses were restricted to whites diagnosed at ages 15–74 years. We tested whether calendar period deviations were significant in TGCT incidence trends adjusted for age deviations and cohort effects. This analysis included 32,250 TGCTs (18,475 seminomas and 13,775 nonseminomas). Seminoma incidence trends have increased with an average annual percentage change in log-linear rates (net drift) of 1.25 %, relative to just 0.14 % for nonseminoma. In more recent time periods, TGCT incidence trends have plateaued and then undergone a slight decrease. Calendar period deviations were highly statistically significant in models of TGCT (p = 1.24−9) and seminoma (p = 3.99−14), after adjustment for age deviations and cohort effects; results for nonseminoma (p = 0.02) indicated that the effects of calendar period were much more muted. Calendar period deviations play a significant role in incidence trends of TGCT, which indicates that postnatal exposures are etiologically relevant.
Scaling-up local foods: Commodity practice in community supported agriculture (CSA)

Non-profit, consumer, and government advocates are working to expand access to locally-produced foods as a way of addressing major social and ecological issues. Some activists, however, suggest that farms “scaling-up” production and distribution may lose sight of the movement's aims by circumventing a direct exchange between growing and consumer and by delivering “local” shares long distances. I argue that in order to answer whether scaling-up is misguided, we first have to understand how farms come to scale differently. I describe the varied practices that three community supported agriculture (CSA) farms in the Midwest perform in order to give their products market value as embedded in a specific socio-ecological context. I focus on three key moments of CSA that advocates are concerned about in scaling-up: 1) the employment of different kinds of labor; 2) operating within the seasons; 3) the management of sharer expectations about produce quantity and quality. As what I call commodity practice, farm decisions about these factors produce differently scaled local food commodities. These different practices are not necessarily incongruent with the aims of the movement. My main point in this approach is to advance an awareness of hybridity in local food institutions. As CSAs and other institutions like food hubs grow and evolve, a look at commodity practices can shed light on and confound some of the apparent contradictions in scaling-up.
Exploiting the inflammatory response on biomaterials research and development

Exploiting the inflammatory response on biomaterials research and development requires an in-depth understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the events comprising the tissue response continuum. Examples of how the biomaterial surface chemistry may modulate the foreign body reaction to biomaterials. The utilization of different surface chemistries on biomaterials may provide biological design criteria for the appropriate use and function of biomaterials when used in medical devices and prostheses.
Dynamics Between Stem Cells, Niche and Progeny in the Hair Follicle

Here, we exploit the hair follicle to define the point at which stem cells (SCs) become irreversibly committed along a differentiation lineage. Employing histone and nucleotide double-pulse-chase and lineage tracing, we show that the early SC descendents en route to becoming transit-amplifying cells retain stemness and slow-cycling properties and home back to the bulge niche when hair growth stops. These become the primary SCs for the next hair cycle, whereas initial bulge SCs become reserves for injury. Proliferating descendents further en route irreversibly lose their stemness, although they retain many SC markers and survive, unlike their transit-amplifying progeny. Remarkably, these progeny also home back to the bulge. Combining purification and gene expression analysis with differential ablation and functional experiments, we define critical functions for these non-SC niche residents and unveil the intriguing concept that an irreversibly committed cell in an SC lineage can become an essential contributor to the niche microenvironment.
Clorgyline-induced increases in presynaptic DA : changes in the behavioral and neurochemical effects of amphetamine using in vivo microdialysis

Abstract Microdialysis was used in behaving rats to further characterize the behavioral and regional dopamine (DA) response to the monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor clorgyline and determine how MAO inhibition affects amphetamine (AMPH)-induced changes in behavioral and extracellular DA dynamics. Although clorgyline (4.0 mg/kg) did not significantly alter behavior, it produced prolonged increases in caudate and accumbens extracellular DA and 3MT and corresponding decreases in homovanillic acid (HVA) and dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC). Clorgyline pretreatment altered the behavioral response to both low (0.25 mg/kg) and moderate (2.5 mg/kg) doses of AMPH, which was characterized by a shift to more intense forms of stereotypy and corresponding decreases in locomotion. The caudate and accumbens DA response to AMPH (0.25 mg/kg) was also significantly augmented, consistent with an increase in AMPH-releasable cytoplasmic DA. Thus, the potentiated DA response in clorgyline-pretreated animals may be responsible for the changes in the stereotypy profile. Possible implications of these observations for the augmented behavioral response observed with repeated AMPH administration are discussed.
Diagnosis and management of iron-deficiency anaemia

Anaemia is typically the first clue to iron deficiency, but an isolated haemoglobin measurement has both low specificity and low sensitivity. The latter can be improved by including measures of iron-deficient erythropoiesis such as the transferrin iron saturation, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, erythrocyte zinc protoporphyrin, percentage of hypochromic erythrocytes or reticulocyte haemoglobin concentration. However, the changes in these measurements with iron deficiency are indistinguishable from those seen in patients with the anaemia of chronic disease. The optimal diagnostic approach is to measure the serum ferritin as an index of iron stores and the serum transferrin receptor as a index of tissue iron deficiency. The treatment of iron deficiency should always be initiated with oral iron. When this fails because of large blood losses, iron malabsorption, or intolerance to oral iron, parenteral iron can be given using iron dextran, iron gluconate or iron sucrose.
Post-induction kinetics in shock-initiated H2−O2 reactions

The course of the shock-initiated hydrogen-oxygen reaction after the induction period, during the transition to partial equilibrium, has been investigated by computer integration of the rate equations, and interpretations of particular aspects are developed. H2:O2 ratios far from stoichiometric are considered. An earlier suggestion by one of the authors that partial equilibrium conditions with no recombination represent a practical upper limit to the transient atom and radical concentrations is contradicted, and attention is focused on the pronounced “spike” in oxygen-atom concentration that modern rate-coefficient data predict to occur in fuel-rich mixtures at the time of maximum reaction rates and most rapid O2 depletion. Determination of the time duration and amplitude of O “spikes” in rich mixtures, which we have not yet accomplished, offers the possibility of direct information on the rate coefficients for the reactions H + O 2 → k a O H + O O + H 2 → k b O H + H Failure of measured OH-concentration profiles to exhibit such “spikes” in rich mixtures over the range 1160°≤T≤1884°K places an upper bound on the ratio ka/kc O H + H 2 → k c H 2 O + H
Quantum dot electrophoretic mobility shift assay and its application to the measurement of exonuclease activity

We have discovered a phenomenon where the electrophoretic mobility of a QD-DNA nanoassembly can be precisely and predictably tuned by the level of surface DNA conjugation. By using streptavidin-coated quantum dots (QDs) as nanotethers to gather biotin-labeled DNA into electrophoretic nanoassemblies, the QD surface charge is modulated and transformed into electrophoretic mobility shifts using standard agarose gel electrophoresis. Based on this unique property, we have developed a quantification nanoassay termed as quantum dot electrophoretic mobility assay, or QEMSA. QEMSA demonstrates ultrahigh resolution in quantification, capable of differentiating ∼9% difference in DNA quantity. In this report, we further present a new analytical model that better describe the QEMSA process by taking into account the intrinsic charges carried by the quantum dot. We also extend the applications of QEMSA to measure the enzyme activity of exonuclease I.
Involvement of cell shape in the replication and segregation of chromosomes in Escherichia coli.

Chromosome replication appears to initiate in E. coli when the dnaA boxes in oriC become filled with DnaA protein, which could simultaneously mediate both the unwinding of the origin for the start of polymerization and the attachment of oriC to the cell envelope (Bramhill and Kornberg, 1988; Lobner-Olesen et al., 1989; Pierucci et al., 1989). The attachment takes place somewhere within the cell half in which the oriC resides. The boundaries of this attachment/replication zone, which cannot include the polar cap, could be demarcated by the polar and centrally located periseptal annuli (Rothfield, this Forum). Since attachment and polymerization are two aspects of the same process, the attachment probably takes place via the polymerizing strand. Once polymerization begins, the oriC with the older template strand moves away from the younger one, by mechanisms unknown, to eventually take up residence in the equivalent domain of the complementary sister cell. Thus, the template strand that stays within its domain corresponds to the strand that was attached during the previous round of replication, and the template that moves away is the one that was not attached. The driving force for this translocation is not specified by our model, but a number of plausible alternatives have been proposed by others (reviewed in Leonard and Helmstetter, 1990). Throughout the ensuing replication and cell division, the chromosomes are located (or can move freely) within the attachment/replication zone of the developing daughter cell (lateral cylinder and septum). At some time during the course of this process, but before the next initiation event, the replication origins must be released from the attachment sites so that the entire process can be repeated. Thus, the probabilistic non-random chromosome segregation is due to the asymmetry of the attachment/replication zone in the cell, whereas the partitioning system itself must possess a mechanism to discriminate between template strands of different ages. This apparent mechanistic relationship between chromosome replication, chromosome partitioning and the maintenance of cell shape may provide an interesting framework for future experiments.
Localized Normal Maps and the Stability of Variational Conditions

This paper introduces a localized version of the normal maps previously employed by the author and others to study solutions of variational inequalities. This localization permits us to deal with variational conditions posed over sets that may not be convex, and to draw conclusions about the existence and continuity of solutions of the variational condition by studying those of the normal map.
Spontaneous Alternation with and Without Reward in Hooded and Albino Rats

Summary.-Spontaneous alternation was investigated with and without food reward in hooded and albino rats by means of a 2 x 2 factorial design with 18 Ss per cell. Neither the main effects of strain and reward nor the trend over successive trials were statistically significant. However, the interaction of strain X reward was significant, reflecting significantly more alternations by rewarded Ss within the hooded strain but a nonsignificant difference in the opposite direction within the albinos. A significant strain x training interaction probably reflected a greater decline in alternations with training by the albinos. Walker (1956) confirmed his prediction that thirsty rats would alternate more when water was available in either arm of a T-maze than when it was not. However, comparing alternation for small and large amounts of food, Fowler, Blond, and Dember (1959) found less alternation with greater reward. The present experiment also uses food reward but compares the rewarded conditions with conditions of noweward as Walker did. Method.4~ were 72 male rats, half hooded and half albino, 60-80 days old at the beginning of T-maze training. A random half of each strain was assigned to reward conditions in the T-maze, and the remaining half received no reward, thus forming 4 groups of 18 Ss each. The T-maze was the wide T-maze formerly employed by Cotton, Lewis, and Metzger (1958). The basic design was a 2 X 2 factorial with strain (hooded or albino) and reward magnirude in both goal boxes of the T-maze (0 or 2 Noyes, ,045-gm. pellets) as the variables. Six daily, three-trial sessions were given in the T-maze with all Ss under 21-22 hr. food deprivation. Upon entering either goal box, S was detained for 10 sec. by a sliding door, and 15 sec. were permitted to elapse between trials during which time S was placed in its carrying cage where water was available. During conditions of reward, two pellets were available in each goal box, and during nonreward conditions neither pellets nor container was present. Results and dircr~ssion.-All groups remained above the chance alternation probability of .5 throughout the 6 days. A three-way analysis of variance (reward magnitude X strain X blocks of 2 days) of within-day alternation revealed no significant main effects (F < 1.00 for strain and reward magnitude; F = 1.45 for blocks of 2 days). When the total number of alternations was summed over days, the hoodeds showed means of 7.22 and 9.06, while the albinos showed means of 8.67 and 7.89 for rewarded and nonrewarded conditions, respectively. Of these, only the two extremes (hooded-reward vs hooded
E. coli contains eight soluble proteolytic activities, one being ATP dependent

Escherichia coli selectively degrades polypeptides with highly abnormal conformations1–4. Normal cell proteins are degraded more slowly, but this process increases when the bacteria lack required nutrients1,5–7. The pathways by which aberrant or normal proteins are hydrolysed are not known1,3,4, but these processes require metabolic energy3–5,8,9. Recently, cell-free proteolytic systems have been obtained from E. coli4,10 and mammalian cells3,11–15 that are stimulated by ATP. To clarify the pathway of intracellular protein degradation and to determine whether ATP might directly influence specific proteolytic enzymes, we have now undertaken to define the various proteases in E. coli. Our studies demonstrate the existence of eight distinct soluble proteolytic activities in E. coli extracts. Seven seem to be new enzymes. Six are serine proteases that hydrolyse 14C-globin and 3H-casein, while two others are metalloenzymes that degrade 125I-insulin but not these larger polypeptides. One of the globin-degrading enzymes is stimulated markedly by ATP and thus may be the rate-limiting enzyme for protein breakdown in vivo.
India ink staining of proteins on nylon and hydrophobic membranes

India ink was found to be an acceptable stain for proteins blotted or dotted onto positively charged nylon or hydrophobic membranes. The hydrophobic membrane, Immobilon, was an outstanding matrix for binding proteins and displayed low levels of background staining. The least amount of protein detected by india ink staining was between 1.0 and 10 ng. India ink staining of proteins on nylon membranes is an easy, inexpensive, and quick method for the unequivocal detection of both standards and unknowns in the same blot. However, inks, ink concentrations, fixing conditions, staining times, pH, washing conditions, and membrane lots all need to be controlled to achieve maximum sensitivity for protein detection following india ink staining.
Filter solution of inverse heat conduction problem using measured temperature history as remote boundary condition

Abstract The inverse heat conduction problem (IHCP) involves estimation of a surface heat flux from transient temperature measurements inside a heat conducting body. Commonly an insulated remote boundary or one with a known heat transfer coefficient is modeled. However, in many practical applications, the precise thermal condition at the remote boundary is not known. In this paper, a method of accounting for thermal action at the remote boundary using a second measured temperature history is presented. The measurement need not be at an actual boundary but can be at an interior point in the domain. The IHCP solution herein is achieved through the filter coefficient method, which uses filter coefficients in a convolution summation. By using the filter technique, near real-time heat flux measurements can be continuously obtained in manufacturing settings to enhance productivity. Also the filter concept opens the way for the development of new scientific instruments that incorporate inverse problem methods.