cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Personalized Medicine and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies for Depression: Small Effects, Big Problems, and Bigger Data

Cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBTs) are the most widely studied form of psychotherapy for disorders like depression and anxiety. Nonetheless, there is heterogeneity in response to CBTs vs. other treatments. Researchers have become increasingly interested in using pre-treatment individual differences (i.e., moderators) to match patients to the most effective treatments for them. Several methods to combine multiple variables to create precision treatment rules (PTRs) that identify subgroups have been proposed. We review the rationale behind multivariable PTRs as well as the findings of studies that have used different PTRs. We identify conceptual and methodological issues in the literature. Multivariable treatment assignment is a promising avenue of research. Nonetheless, effect sizes appear to be small and most of the samples that have been used to study these questions have been grossly underpowered to detect small effects. We recommend researchers explore multivariable treatment selection strategies, particularly those resembling risk stratification, in heterogeneous samples of patients undergoing low-intensity CBTs vs. realistic minimal controls.
Sequential immunization of macaques elicits heterologous neutralizing antibodies targeting the V3-glycan patch of HIV-1 Env.

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) against HIV-1 develop after prolonged virus and antibody coevolution. Previous studies showed that sequential immunization with a V3-glycan patch germline-ta...
Metal Gate (TiN, TiC, TaN) Film Stack Stress

Successful stress engineering in semiconductor device structures must consider all the contributions to the stress field including those not typically considered for stress, such as work function metal (WFM) gate layers that are used to tune to the desired work function level. These films induce stress especially since they are so close to the channel region. In this study we measure stress from blanket layer films and combinations of TiN, TiC, and TaN deposited on Hf oxide, at thicknesses that are typically used for advanced metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) devices. Tungsten (W) deposited on top of the WFM layer stacks is also measured. For combination film stacks, the stress is measured after each deposition step. The induced stress from the WFM is significant, in the range of hundreds of MPa, and varies according to the thickness and processing conditions such as annealing temperature and time, etc. Results from these blanket film measurements were used as a guide for technology computer-aided design (TCAD) modeling of the stress field in FinFET structures with design rules comparable to 10-nm technology. The tensor stress components identify areas of compressive and tensile stress and with a magnitude similar to expected results. The stress field could be used to calculate the FinFET device performance, and in this case an example is provided with the relative improvement in drain current.
Modeling Cortical Circuitry

Two features of cortical organization have motivated attempts to analyze the structure and function of the cerebral cortex with approaches from computational neuroscience. First, cortical function depends on the properties of the voltage- and ligand-gated receptors and channels distributed on individual neurons as well as the anatomical connections between the thalamus and between cortical areas. It is therefore important to relate information on the membrane biophysics of cortical neurons to their morphology and to the pattern of afferent synapses on their somata and dendrites. Mathematical models of individual neurons provide an effective context in which to examine the relationship of membrane-level factors to the behavior of the whole neuron. This is an area of work that is often called single-neuron computation.
Using Neural Networks to Predict the Effects and Guide the Application of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (I6-3B)

OBJECTIVE: To use neural networks identified with resting state functional connectivity MRI (rs-fcMRI) to predict the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on motor modulation, and to guide its application. BACKGROUND: The brain is increasingly understood not as a series of discrete regions, but as a conglomerate of interconnected networks. Most studies using noninvasive brain stimulation have targeted particular regions, neglecting the effects of distributed networks. DESIGN/METHODS: First, rs-fcMRI was used to identify the distributed network of cortical regions functionally connected to the primary motor cortex. The locations of electrodes from prior studies modulating motor excitability were compared to this network to predict their effects. Finally, the motor network map was used to generate a multifocal tDCS array to test the hypothesis that stimulating the entire network enhances motor excitability more than stimulating the primary motor cortex alone. In healthy subjects, tDCS was applied for 10 minutes in several alternative arrangements, including the conventional 2-electrode arrangement (with the anode over the primary motor cortex and the cathode over the contralateral supraorbital region) and a multifocal 8-electrode arrangement targeting the cortical network of the primary motor cortex. Motor reactivity was assessed with motor evoked potentials of the contralateral hand before and after tDCS using single pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation. RESULTS: Preliminary results suggest that stimulating the motor network, as compared to the primary motor cortex alone, modulates motor excitability in a different manner over time. CONCLUSIONS: These results have implications for understanding the modulation of neural networks with noninvasive brain stimulation, which is likely to prove relevant in therapeutic applications. Study Supported by: Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, National Institutes of Health (K23NS083741, R21 NS082870), AAN/American Brain Foundation, the Sidney R. Baer Foundation Disclosure: Dr. Fischer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Fried has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pascual-Leone has received personal compensation for activities with Nexstim, Neuronix, Starlab Neuroscience, Neuroelectrics, Neosync, and Novavision. Dr. Fox has nothing to disclose.
Bayesian classification with correlation and inheritance

The task of inferring a set of classes and class descriptions most likely to explain a given data set can be placed on a firm theoretical foundation using Bayesian statistics. Within this framework, and using various mathematical and algorithmic approximations, the Auto Class system searches for the most probable classifications, automatically choosing the number of classes and complexity of class descriptions. Simpler versions of AutoClass have been applied to many large real data sets, have discovered new independently-verified phenomena, and have been released as a robust software package. Recent extensions allow attributes to be selectively correlated within particular classes, and allow classes to inherit, or share, model parameters though a class hierarchy.
Social Norms, Rational Choice and Belief Change

This chapter elaborates on foundational issues in the social sciences and their impact on the contemporary theory of belief revision. Recent work in the foundations of economics has focused on the role external social norms play in choice. Amartya Sen (Econometrica 61(3): 495–521, 1993) has argued that the traditional rationalizability approach used in the theory of rational choice has serious problems accommodating the role of social norms. Sen’s more recent work (Language, world and reality 1996, pp. 19–31; Econometrica 65 (4): 745–779, 1997) proposes how one might represent social norms in the theory of choice, and in a very recent article Walter Bossert and Kotaro Suzumura (Social norms and rationality of choice, preprint, 2007) develop Sen’s proposal, offering an extension of the classical theory of choice that is capable of dealing with social norms.
Nucleation, Kinetics and Admissibility Criteria for Propagating Phase Boundaries

This paper reviews our recent studies on the nucleation and kinetics of propagating phase boundaries in an elastic bar and relates them to various admissibility criteria. First, we discuss how the field equations and jump conditions of the quasi-static theory of such a bar must be supplemented with additional constitutive information pertaining to the initiation and evolution of phase boundaries. The kinetic relation relates the driving traction f at a phase boundary to the phase boundary velocity ṡ; thus f = φ (ṡ), where φ is a materially-determined function. The nucleation criterion specifies a critical value of f at an incipient phase boundary. We then incorporate inertial effects, and we find in the context of the Riemann problem that, as long as phase boundary velocities are subsonic, the theory again needs — and has room for — a nucleation criterion and a kinetic relation. Finally, we describe the sense in which each of three widely studied admissibility criteria for phase boundaries is equivalent to a specific kinetic relation of the form f = φ (ṡ) for a particular choice of φ A kinetic relation based on thermal activation theory is also discussed.
Heat flow from rechargeable neuromodulation systems into surrounding media.

A synergistic investigation involving both experiment and numerical simulation was performed in vitro to determine the heat flow from rechargeable neuromodulation systems into surrounding media. Each system consists of an implant and an external recharging antenna, and the heat flows of each of these components were determined separately. Three systems, each produced by a different medical device firm, were evaluated. The evaluated products included those from Medtronic Inc. (MDT), ANS (a St. Jude Company), and the Boston Scientific Company (BSC, formerly Advanced Bionics). To ensure statistical significance, three nominally identical samples of each of the three systems were included in the study. Furthermore, for each sample of each system, replicate evaluations were performed for both the implant and the antenna. It was found that for both components of MDT, substantially lower rates of heat flow were produced compared with those for ANS and BSC. With regard to the latter systems, the higher rates of heat flow were not consistently ordered for the implant and for the antenna. In general, replicate data runs for each system and each component were in satisfactory agreement. The different samples of the MDT system showed only minor deviations with regard to heat flow. The deviations among the different samples of both ANS and BSC were larger than those evidenced for MDT.
Safety and efficacy of omalizumab in children with allergic asthma

Background: Omalizumab (Xolair) is a humanized monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of adults and children over 12 years with moderate to severe allergic asthma. Pediatric studies are few. Objective: A retrospective chart review of pediatric patients who received omalizumab in the past 10 years for asthma at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio. Results: We had 13 patients, M:F 7:6, median age 13 years (range 9-17), median duration of therapy 36 months (range 1 to 59 months), 9 African American and 4 Caucasian, duration of asthma 15 years (8 to 16). Eight are still on therapy. All patients had severe persistent asthma. Twelve patients were receiving combination therapy (ICS and LABA). Only 4 patients claimed compliance with their asthma controller therapy. Five had family history of asthma, 6 had smoking exposure. Median IgE before starting omalizumab was 249 (range 78 to 2600). Mean BMI was 25.7 and 46% of the patients were above the 100 percentile for BMI. Comparing between one year before and during omalizumab, mean hospital admission/patient/year decreased from 1.7±2.4 to 0.58±1.4 (p<0.05). There was also a trend towards improvement in ED visits from 2.3±3.2 to 1.7±3. Mean FEV1 during one year before omalizumab therapy, at initiation of therapy and during therapy was 91±18, 94±17, and 93±11 and was not statistically different. Two of 13 patients were taken off omalizumab because of serious side effects, one with anaphylaxis and second with dilated cardiomyopathy. Anaphylaxis was noted on first dose and cardiomyopathy was diagnosed in 5th year on therapy. Conclusion: Omalizumab is add-on therapy for some patients with allergic asthma. Adverse reactions in children are limiting factor.
Autologous Regulation of Naive T Cell Homeostasis Within the T Cell Compartment

Naive T cells undergo spontaneous slow proliferation on adoptive transfer into syngeneic T cell (T)-deficient hosts. Recent work has shown that such "homeostatic" T cell proliferation is driven by MHC molecules loaded with self-peptides rather than foreign peptides. Because naive T cells in normal T-sufficient hosts remain in interphase despite continuous contact with self-MHC/peptide ligands, T cells apparently inhibit homeostatic proliferation of neighboring T cells. To address this, we have investigated the requirements necessary for "bystander" T cells to inhibit homeostatic proliferation of other T cells. Three key findings are reported. First, homeostatic proliferation of T cells only occurs in specific microenvironments, namely the T cell compartment of the secondary lymphoid tissues. Second, direct entry into T cell compartments is also required for bystander inhibition of homeostatic proliferation. Third, bystander inhibition is mediated largely by naive rather than activated/memory T cells and does not require proliferation or TCR ligation. These findings suggest that homeostasis of naive T cells is unlikely to be regulated through competition for systemic soluble factors or for specific stimulatory self-MHC/peptide ligands. Rather, the data favor mechanisms that involve competition for local non-MHC stimulatory factors or direct cell-to-cell interactions between the T cells themselves within the T cell compartment.
Mouse ribonuclease III. cDNA structure, expression analysis, and chromosomal location.

Members of the ribonuclease III superfamily of double-stranded(ds)-RNA-specific endoribonucleases participate in diverse RNA maturation and decay pathways in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. A human RNase III orthologue has been implicated in ribosomal RNA maturation. To better understand the structure and mechanism of mammalian RNase III and its involvement in RNA metabolism we determined the cDNA structure, chromosomal location, and expression patterns of mouse RNase III. The predicted mouse RNase III polypeptide contains 1373 amino acids (~160 kDa). The polypeptide exhibits a single C-terminal dsRNA-binding motif (dsRBM), tandem catalytic domains, a proline-rich region (PRR) and an RS domain. Northern analysis and RT-PCR reveal that the transcript (4487 nt) is expressed in all tissues examined, including extraembryonic tissues and the midgestation embryo. Northern analysis indicates the presence of an additional, shorter form of the transcript in testicular tissue. Fluorescent in situ hybridization demonstrates that the mouse RNase III gene maps to chromosome 15, region B, and that the human RNase III gene maps to a syntenic location on chromosome 5p13-p14. The broad transcript expression pattern indicates a conserved cellular role(s) for mouse RNase III. The putative polypeptide is highly similar to human RNase III (99% amino acid sequence identity for the two catalytic domains and dsRBM), but is distinct from other eukaryotic orthologues, including Dicer, which is involved in RNA interference. The mouse RNase III gene has a chromosomal location distinct from the Dicer gene.
Computer Technique for Identification of Chromatographic Peaks

A computer program has been developed to identify known peaks in a chromatogram from a computer-interfaced chromatograph. The focal point of the program is a normalization technique, which refers the elution volume of each sample peak encountered to the elution volumes of two reference peaks that bracket the peak of interest, as is done in certain gas chromatographic normalization techniques. The normalized elution volume is determined by dividing the difference between the elution volumes of the sample peak and the first (early-eluting) reference peak by the difference between the elution volumes of the two reference peaks. The normalized elution volumes thus obtained are compared to normalized elution volumes of known compounds stored in bulk memory. The compounds now being used as reference peaks in the chromatograms from the UV-Analyzer are hypoxanthine, uric acid, hippuric acid, and p -cresol.
Implementation of a portable nested data-parallel language

Abstract This paper gives an overview of the implementation of NESL, a portable nested data-parallel language. This language and its implementation are the first to fully support nested data structures as well as nested data-parallel function calls. These features allow the concise description of parallel algorithms on irregular data, such as sparse matrices and graphs. In addition, they maintain the advantages of data-parallel languages: a simple programming model and portability. The current NESL implementation is based on an intermediate language called VCODE and a library of vector routines called CVL. It runs on the Connection Machines CM-2 and CM-5, the Cray Y-MP C90, and serial workstations. We compare initial benchmark results of NESL, with those of machine-specific code on these machines for three algorithms: least-squares line-fitting, median finding, and a sparse-matrix vector product. These results show that NESL′s performance is competitive with that of machine-specific codes for regular dense data, and is often superior for irregular data.
Potential anxiogenic effects of cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonists/inverse agonists in rats: comparisons between AM4113, AM251, and the benzodiazepine inverse agonist FG-7142.

Cannabinoid CB1 inverse agonists suppress food-motivated behaviors, but may also induce psychiatric effects such as depression and anxiety. To evaluate behaviors potentially related to anxiety, the present experiments assessed the CB1 inverse agonist AM251 (2.0-8.0 mg/kg), the CB1 antagonist AM4113 (3.0-12.0 mg/kg), and the benzodiazepine inverse agonist FG-7142 (10.0-20.0 mg/kg), using the open field test and the elevated plus maze. Although all three drugs affected open field behavior, these effects were largely due to actions on locomotion. In the elevated plus maze, FG-7142 and AM251 both produced anxiogenic effects. FG-7142 and AM251 also significantly increased c-Fos activity in the amygdala and nucleus accumbens shell. In contrast, AM4113 failed to affect performance in the plus maze, and did not induce c-Fos immunoreactivity. The weak effects of AM4113 are consistent with biochemical data showing that AM4113 induces little or no intrinsic cellular activity. This research may lead to the development of novel appetite suppressants with reduced anxiogenic effects.
Standardized entrainment tubes for the evaluation of pharmaceutical dry powder dispersion

Abstract A series of standardized entrainment tubes (SETs) were designed to provide a method for evaluation of aerosol dispersion of pharmaceutical powders. The range of specific resistances ( R D ) provided by the SETs encompassed those of commercial DPIs. The airflow conditions within the SETs were characterized in terms of pressure drop ( Δ P ) , power, Reynold's number ( Re ) and shear stress ( τ s ) at airflow rates of 28.3 and 60 L/min. The aerosol performance of a commercial powder formulation (Ventolin Rotacaps ™ ) obtained using the SETs was measured by cascade impaction; and characterized using emitted dose (ED), fine particle mass (FPM), mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) and geometric standard deviation (GSD). The use of SETs allowed the aerosol performance of the powder formulation to be measured under well defined geometry and flow conditions. Good reproducibility in ED, FPM and MMAD results were obtained from SETs. Comparable values were obtained from SETs at similar resistance levels to the commercial inhaler devices ( Rotahaler ™ and Inhalator ™ ). The SETs enabled examination of fundamental relationships between airflow conditions and aerosol performance.
Artificial polarization anomalies from holographic gratings

Abstract An aluminum reflection grating made holographically was found to display polarization anomalies when illuminated with p-polarized light. Additional anomalies were detected for both p- and s-polarizations after the grating was coated with a layer of dielectric (410 nm of photoresist). These new anomalies have been interpreted in terms of the optical guided modes of a thin film dielectric waveguide bounded on one side by metal and on the other by vacuum.
Proceedings of the 16th international conference on Supercomputing

On behalf of the ICS'02 Organizing Committee, we are pleased to welcome you to New York City for the 16th ACM International Conference on Supercomputing. Over the years, ICS has built a tradition of bringing you the very best in research and experience in the exciting area of high-performance computing.This year is no exception. We have an excellent technical program consisting of 31 papers selected from 144 submissions; the technical areas represented by these papers range from applications all the way to low-power architectures. Three outstanding speakers have kindly consented to give keynote addresses: Tetsuya Sato (Director-General, Earth Simulator Center, Japan), Alfred Z. Spector (Vice President, Services and Software, IBM Research), and David Kuck (Intel Fellow, Director, KAI Software Lab). Rounding off the technical program are three panel discussions, five tutorials, and four workshops on exciting current topics in the field of high-performance computing, such as self-healing, and adaptive system.
True duplication of the vas deferens: a case report and review of literature

Background Duplication of the vas deferens is the identification of a second vas deferens within the spermatic cord; it is a rarely reported congenital anomaly. Duplicate vas deferens should not be confused with double vas deferens that describes ipsilateral renal agenesis with a blind ureter ending in the ejaculatory system.
Early Paleoindian foraging: examining the faunal evidence for large mammal specialization and regional variability in prey choice

North American archaeologists have spent much effort debating whether Early Paleoindian foragers were specialized hunters of megafauna or whether they pursuedmore generalizedsubsistence strategies. In doing so, many have treatedthe foraging practices of early North Americans as if they must have been uniform across the continent, even though others have pointedout that adaptations appear to have varied among groups inhabiting different kinds of environments. Resolving these issues fully requires referring to archaeofaunal data and evaluating those data critically. In this paper, we conduct such an evaluation of the existing Early Paleoindian faunal record, which we then use to test the hypothesis that early Americans across the continent specialized in the hunting of megafauna. After detailed attention is given to taphonomic issues, to the limited geographical distribution of sites with secure associations between humans andprey taxa, andto differences among sites in the roles that they likely playedin settlement and subsistence systems, it becomes clear that the faunal record provides little support for the idea that all, or even any, Early Paleoindian foragers were megafaunal specialists. It does appear, however, that there was considerable variability in Early Paleoindian prey choice across the continent, which was likely related to variability in the environments that different groups inhabited.
Effective-medium theory of sinusoidally modulated volume holograms

Zeroth-order effective-medium theory is applied to sinusoidally modulated volume holograms for which the period of the grating is much smaller than the illumination wavelength. These holograms can be modeled as negative uniaxial films, with the effective ordinary and extraordinary permittivities being determined by the small-period quasi-static approximation. The limits of validity of the small-period approximation are examined as a function of the wavelength-to-grating-period ratio (λ:Λ) by rigorous coupled-wave theory. The limits are shown to be more restrictive for slanted holograms and for conically incident waves than for unslanted holograms and nonconically incident waves.
Reduction of test anxiety using Pavlovian conditioning principles: a preliminary note.

Summary.-10 test anxious college smdents participated in an experiment that assessed the effectiveness of Test Anxiety Reduction Training. Five subjects were randomly selected to receive treatment; the other five received no treatment and served as a control group. The procedure involved two types of Pavlovian pairings, (1) a conditioned stimulus (small glass marble) with an unconditioned stimulus (relaxing music) and (2) the image of the test-taking situation with the unconditioned stimulus. When treated subjects brought the conditioned stimulus into their tests, their test scores improved significantly compared to those of control subjects. Advantages of this treatment over other ueaunents were discussed along with possible uses in other anxiety-producing situations. The most used and most successful method of reducing test anxiety has probably been systematic desensitization. Since it was first described by Wolpe (1952), the basic procedure has been modified many times by many different experimenters. Systematic desensitization is based on the counter-conditioning of anxiety with relaxation. This relaxation is usually produced via a previously taught relaxation technique such as deep muscle relaxation. Clients work their way up a hierarchy of anxiety-producing images while using the relaxation technique. When the top is reached, net anxiety should be reduced. One disadvantage to systematic desensitization is that a relaxation technique must be taught; this adds time, sometimes requires the use of drugs, and is difficult for some to learn. The present paper explains and tests an alternative treatment which does not require formalized relaxation training, Test Anxiety Reduction Training (TART). The required relaxation is facilitated by music. Stanton ( 1973) has shown that background music can improve performance by test-anxious students. The present training is based on some of the same principles as systematic desensitization but is less time consuming, and after it is taught, can be done alone by the client. As in systematic desensitization, the basic principle is the reduction of anxiety through counterconditioning. If relaxation can be aroused during anxiety-producing situations, then net anxiety should be *The data are not discussed in greater detail because this is a preliminary report. Contact the author for further information. This work was conducted while the author was at Brooklyn College. The author thanks Dr. William F. Oakes for his help with this study. Requests for reprints should be sent to Stephen F. Siegel, Behavioral Sciences Division, Science and Advanced Technology Laboratory, U.S. Army Natick Research and Development Center, Natick, MA 01760.
Modification and functional inactivation of the tropoelastin carboxy-terminal domain in cross-linked elastin.

Abstract The carboxy-terminus of tropoelastin is a highly conserved, atypical region of the molecule with sequences that define both cell and matrix interactions. This domain also plays a critical but unknown role in the assembly and crosslinking of tropoelastin during elastic fiber maturation. Using a competitive ELISA with an antibody to an elastase-resistant epitope in the carboxy-terminus of tropoelastin (domain-36), we quantified levels of the domain-36 sequence in elastase-derived peptides from mature, insoluble elastin. We found that the amount of carboxy-terminal epitope in elastin is ~ 0.2% of the expected value, assuming each tropoelastin monomer that is incorporated into the insoluble polymer has an intact carboxy-terminus. The low levels suggest that the majority of domain-36 sequence is either removed at some stage of elastin assembly or that the antigenic epitope is altered by posttranslational modification. Biochemical evidence is presented for a potential lysine-derived cross-link in this region, which would alter the extractability and antigenicity of the carboxy-terminal epitope. These results show that there is little or no unmodified domain-36 in mature elastin, indicating that the cell and matrix binding activities associated with this region of tropoelastin are lost or modified as elastin matures. A crosslinking function for domain-36 may serve to help register the multiple crosslinking sites in elastin and explains why mutations that alter the domain-36 sequence have detrimental effects on elastic fiber assembly.
T-cell response dynamics in animal models of multiple sclerosis: implications for immunotherapies

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a multifactorial autoimmune disease of the central nervous system with a complex immune nature and varied clinical presentation. Current therapies for MS are limited by toxicity and efficacy, so interest has now turned to specifically modulating autoreactive T-cell responses. Murine MS models, such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), have proved invaluable for understanding the immune components of MS and for designing and testing potential immunotherapies. Here, we review the current knowledge of the mechanisms of induction and progression of EAE and MS and the immunotherapies that have resulted from studies of the EAE model.
The problem of biological weapons: next steps for the nation.

Tara O'Toole, MD, MPHa In this presentation I discuss proposals regarding where the nation needs to go and list the top actions that I believe are necessary in the next two years to deal with the problems of bioweapons and bioterrorism. First, however, I will con sider the larger context of the bioweapons problem. Where do we stand at this point, at this moment in history? This question is, of course, much on the minds of Americans of voting age these days. The future is not yet written. The votes may or may not be counted. They may or may not count. However, at least to some degree, the future is ours to compose. Some of the major struggles before us are clear. Among the principal chal lenges of our generation is the imperative to manage the adverse consequences of the powerful technologies we have created. Among the most dangerous of such technologies are nuclear and biological weapons. Biological weapons are in the world. Let us be clear: the efficacy of these weapons and their ability to kill large populations have been known for decades and demonstrated persuasively by all possible means short of their use in war or an actual bioterrorism attack. What has been largely overlooked in the com plaints about the lack of a quantitative threat analysis, and in arguments about how many microbiologists a terrorist must know to build a truly scary weapon, is the trajectory of biological science in our time. To reiterate what George Poste said, we are on the threshold of the age of "big biology." The momentum and pace of this Cambrian explosion of biological knowledge are prodigious. As our understanding of molecular biology expands, as we develop the ability to manipulate cellular processes, we will also inevitably create the tools to build more varied and more powerful biological weapons. At the same time, the widespread use of biological science and market forces will ensure that the techniques needed to exercise this knowledge will become simplified and more widely accessible. Consider, for example, the effort underway to derive infectious influenza A virus from viral complementary DNA. This has been chronicled in prestigious scientific journals for the past year or so, and the work has progressed to the point that infectious virus can be generated from only eight plasmids. A year
Modern equilibrium ultracentrifugation: applications of automated interferometry

ABSTRACT The development of automated interferometry for the ultracentrifuge is presented briefly, along with a short description of our current "real-time" acquisition system for equilibrium studies. Use of this system and of the associated data analyses techniques for both conventional and short solution column experiments of various types are discussed with emphasis on the application of nonlinear least squares fitting procedures. A brief summary is presented of the use of these approaches to detect and measure heterogeneity of various types. 1. INTRODUCTIONThe ultracentrifuge is one of the few instruments that can furnish direct and reliable information about molecular weights and interactions of macromolecules in solution. Sedimentation equilibrium techniques are especially valuable because of their foundation on equilibrium thermodynamics. They provide the most reliable, foolproof and precise estimates of solution parameters from interferomeiric observations of concentration
Effects of tallow and escape protein on lactational and reproductive performance of dairy cows.

Abstract Experiments were performed to determine the effect of energy source and proportion of escape protein on lactational performance, body measurements, and reproductive activity. Sixty-eight lactating Holstein cows were assigned to one of four dietary treatments during wk 2 to 12 postpartum: 1) high fat (3% tallow), high escape protein (5% feather meal:blood meal, 85:15, DM basis); 2) high fat, low escape protein (0% feather mea1:blood meal); 3) low fat (0% tallow), high escape protein; and 4) low fat, low escape protein. Diets were similar in energy and CP contents. Overall mean milk yield (32.9 kg/d) was not affected by diet, but efficiency of FCM yield was highest with high fat and high escape protein. Daily DMI and net energy balance were greater for cows fed the diet low in fat and low in escape protein, but days to first ovulation were not different among groups. Total cholesterol in plasma increased as DIM increased, and concentrations were greater for cows fed the high fat diets than for cows fed the low fat diets after 35 DIM. Concentrations of luteal phase progesterone and follicular phase estradiol tended to be greater for cows fed the high fat and low escape protein, but conception rate from first AI was greatest for cows fed the high fat and high escape protein. Supplemental tallow and escape protein did not consistently affect lactational performance but did improve efficiency of FCM yield and conception rate from first AI.
Integrated circuit (IC) aging effects on radio-frequency distinct native attributes (RF-DNA)

Device discrimination using RF-DNA utilizes the uniqueness resulting from integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing process variation. As an IC ages toward wear-out failure, internal physical alterations may impart additional changes on the order of initial process variations. This paper proposes exploration of: 1) the impact of aging on RF-DNA discrimination reliability, and 2) a means to monitor IC aging using RF-DNA.
Effects of Calcium, Lanthanum, and Bicarbonate Ion on Epinephrine Modification of Insulin Release In Vitro

The role of calcium flux in mediating epinephrine modification of insulin release was investigated by using lanthanum, an inhibitor of calcium flux, in the in vitro perifusion system. Lanthanum inhibits insulin secretion stimulated by glucose and by acetylcholine to basal levels. Epinephrine and lanthanum have additive effects in inhibiting insulin secretion to glucose stimulation. The effect of epinephrine prestimulation on insulin secretion to subsequent glucose challenge varies markedly, depending on the presence or absence of bicarbonate ion: epinephrine priming is reversed inthe absence of bicarbonate, an effect possibly related to reduced calcium uptake. In the presence of bicarbonate, lanthanum blocks the priming effect of epinephrine on insulin secretion. The data further support the postulated role of calcium in adrenergic effects on beta cell function.
BIOFEEDBACK AND PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC TREATMENT OF PSORIASIS: A BRIEF REPORT

The client was a 31-yr.-old white male evidencing multiple psoriatic plaques. The condition was considered severe and had been resistant to previous dermatological treatments. Following a baseline period of 3 wk., 30 treatment sessions were conducted over a 7-mo. period. Each treatment session consisted of 20 min. of skin temperature training at the target plaque site and 15 min. of supportive psychotherapy focused on personal adjustment problems. Photographs of the plaque area and skin temperature recordings were taken during each session. Ratings of the photographs indicated marked improvements of dermatological signs. Despite efforts to reduce skin temperature, small but consistent increases were obtained. It was not possible to assess the relative contribution of biofeedback training, psychotherapy, cognitive variables, or uncontrolled life events. It is hypothesized that a general stress-reduction model might be more useful in the development of an effective treatment of psoriasis. Follow-up checks a...
Beauty is in the sex of the beholder: An examination of the effects of interviewer characteristics on assessments of respondent attractiveness

Abstract Research exploring the effects of physical attractiveness frequently assesses attractiveness by employing subjective appraisals by independent raters. However, there is reason to believe that rater characteristics – especially their sex – may systematically bias subjective ratings of physical attractiveness. The current study explores this possibility by analyzing data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health ( N = 13,330). Analyses of these data revealed that ratings of physical attractiveness are significantly influenced by the sex of the interviewer/rater. Specifically, male raters were significantly less likely than female raters to assess males as attractive, very attractive, and very unattractive. The results are explained within the context of evolutionary psychology and illustrate a methodological concern for research on physical attractiveness.
Cellular localization of vasopressin V1a receptor messenger ribonucleic acid in adult male rat brain, pineal, and brain vasculature.

Vasopressin V1a receptor (V1aR) transcripts were localized in brain, pineal, and superficial brain vascular tissues of adult male rats using hybridization histochemistry and an [35S]riboprobe complementary to the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) encoding the fifth to the midseventh transmembrane regions of the receptor. V1aR mRNA was extensively distributed throughout brain and was expressed in 1) superficial cells of the granule cell layers of the main olfactory bulb, hippocampal dentate gyrus, and cerebellum; 2) numerous anatomically distinct brain nuclei; 3) isolated cells dispersed throughout the central nervous system; 4) cells of the choroid plexus, occasional blood vessels in the olfactory bulb and interpeduncular nucleus, and extraparenchymal intracranial vasculature; and 5) some white matter structures. Numerous cells expressing V1aR transcripts were found in forebrain structures, including primary olfactory (piriform) cortex, the anterior and posterior olfactory nuclei; dorsal, intermediate, an...
Male Group Dynamics and Inter‐male Aggression of Guanacos in Southern Chile1)

and Summary Group dynamics and aggressive behavior of guanaco (Lama guanicoe) male groups (MGs) were described and quantified. All-male groups consisted of yearling, subadult, and adult males. Yearlings joined MGs from early Sep. to Feb., but the majority entered groups in Dec. and Jan. Adult males dispersed from MGs in Jan. and Feb. to establish or challenge tor territories. Young females were occasionally observed in MGs, but not during the height of the breeding season. Aggressive activity rates peaked in Jan., and older males were more aggressively active than younger males, initiating more threats and receiving fewer. After the breeding season, rates of aggression decreased but mean durations of two ear threats increased, suggesting that threats may replace energetically costly fighting as a sign of increased aggressiveness. Guanaco fighting style was similar to that of Equidae, in that fights proceeded in an unpredictable manner to unbalance and bite the opponent. The guanaco chest-ram was hypothesized to be a ritualized behavior that coevolved with the large camelid canine teeth. Male guanacos spend 3–4 years in all-male groups where they assess size and fighting ability via chest-rams and playfighting, thus presumably improving fighting skills that may ultimately affect reproductive success. Comparisons with horned ungulates are also discussed. Zusammenfassung Die Arbeit beschreibt und quantifiziert die Gruppendynamik und das aggressive Verhalten in Guanako-Mannchengruppen. Diese Gruppen (max. 167 Tiere) enthalten Jahrlinge, Jugendliche und Adulte. Die Jahrlinge stosen von September bis Februar (die meisten im Dezember bis Januar) hinzu, die Adulten verlassen die Gruppen im Januar und Februar., um Reviere zu besetzen. Gelegentlich sieht man auch junge Weibchen in diesen Gruppen, aber nicht wahrend der Hauptfortpflanzungszeit. Aggressives Verhalten kulminiert im Januar, bei den alten ist es starker ausgepragt als bei jungen Mannchen; je alter, desto mehr Drohungen teilen sie aus, desto weniger Drohungen empfangen sie, und desto haufiger werden drohende Ohrstellungen. Nach der Fortpflanzungszeit werden Aggressionen sel-tener, zwei bestimmte Ohren-Drohungen nehmen aber an Dauer zu, wahr-scheinlich stellvertretend fur energieaufwendiges Kampfen. Kampfe verlaufen — wie bei Equiden — unvoraussagbar und zielen darauf, den Gegner zu beisen und aus dem Gleichgewicht zu bringen. Guanakos haben mehr Dominanzgesten und tauschen sie haufiger aus als gehornte Ungulaten, die auch mehr ritualisierte Gesten haben. Das Bruststosen der Guanakos hat sich wohl zusammen mit den grosen Canini der Kamelartigen entwickelt. Guanako-Mannchen verbringen 3–4 Jahre in Mannchengruppen und lernen durch Bruststosen und spielerisches Kampfen ihre Grose einschatzen.
Detection methods for locating obstructions in blown optical fiber ducts

Currently obstructions in blown optical fiber (BOF) tubing (microducts) are found using the ball bearing test (BB test) as described in test method 6H1 of MIL-STD-2042 [1]. A 4.5 millimeter (.17 inch) BB is launched down the entire length of the tubing (6 mm ID) with air pressure ranging from 50 to 100 psig. The BOF tubing is considered obstruction free if the BB can traverse the entire length of the tube. If the BB does not pass through the BOF tubing, there is an obstruction at an unknown location. Determining the position of this obstruction is time consuming, and if unsuccessful the entire BOF tube has to be scrapped. There would be a cost saving benefit if an accurate way of determining the location of the obstruction was found.
Secondary Reinforcement as a Function of the Interstimulus Interval: A Confutation

After bar training, 3 of 5 groups of 9 rats received runway discrimination training presenting a buzzer as the discriminative stimulus: I—in the start box; II—in the alley; III—as the goal box was entered. For Group IV the buzzer sounded after the reward was seized and Group V was not exposed to the buzzer. After Group I attained the criterion of discrimination, Ss were tested in the Skinner box with bar depression sounding the buzzer for .75 sec. Contrary to the hypothesis that all discriminative stimuli are secondary reinforcers (Keller & Schoenfeld, 1950), there was no evidence that the buzzer had acquired reward value.
Induced mitochondrial failure in the feline brain: implications for understanding acute post-traumatic metabolic events.

Abstract Objective: Recently, evidence has become available implicating mitochondrial failure as a crucial factor in the pathogenesis of acute brain damage following severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, it remains unclear how mitochondrial dysfunction affects cerebral metabolism. Therefore the aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of ‘isolated’ mitochondrial failure on local cerebral metabolism. Methods: Cerebral mitochondrial metabolism was blocked by local microdialysis perfusion with cyanide in seven cats. Local brain tissue oxygen tension ( p tiO 2 ), carbon dioxide tension ( p tiCO 2 ) and pH, as well as extracellular cerebral fluid, glucose, lactate, pyruvate and glutamate were monitored, using a Neurotrend sensor and microdialysis, respectively. Tissue oxygen consumption was measured in a microrespirometric system, and ultrastructural changes evaluated via electron microscopy. Results: Brain tissue oxygen tension increased from a baseline of 31±9 mmHg to 84±30 mmHg after 60 min of cyanide perfusion ( P P P p tiCO 2 did not show significant changes. Lactate massively increased from a baseline of 599±270 μmol/l to 2609±1188 μmol/l immediately after cyanide perfusion ( P P P Conclusion: The results of this study show that ‘isolated’ cerebral mitochondrial failure initiates changes in cerebral substrates and biochemistry, which are very similar to most of the changes seen after severe human head injury, except for the early fall in p tiO 2 , further indicating a crucial involvement of mitochondrial impairment in the development of brain damage after TBI.
Ion implantation of superhard ceramic cutting tools

Despite numerous reports of tool life increase by ion implantation in machining operations, ion implantation applications of cutting tools remain limited, especially for ceramic tools. Mechanisms of tool-life improvement by implantation are not clearly established due to complexity of both implantation and tool-wear processes. In an attempt to improve performance of cubic boron nitride (CBN) tools for hard machining by ion implantation, a literature survey of ion-implanted cutting tools was carried out with a focus on mechanisms of tool-wear reduction by ion implantation. Implantation and machining experiments were then conducted to investigate implantation effects on CBN tools in hard machining. A batch of CBN tools was implanted with nitrogen ions at 150 keV and 2.5×1017 ions/cm2 and further used to cut 61 HRc AISI 52100 steel at different conditions. Results show that ion implantation has strong effects on partsurface finish, moderate effect on cutting forces, but an insignificant impact on tool wear. Friction coefficients, estimated from measured cutting forces, are possibly reduced by ion implantation, which may improve surface finish. However, surprisingly, 2-D orthogonal cutting to evaluate tribological loading in hard machining showed no difference on contact stresses and friction coefficients between implanted and nonimplanted CBN tools.
PHOTOPRODUCTION WITH LINEARLY POLARIZED PHOTONS AS A TEST FOR CUTS IN THE ANGULAR MOMENTUM PLANE.

We propose here two simple experimental tests for Regge cuts. They consist of looking at $s(\frac{d\ensuremath{\sigma}}{\mathrm{dt}})$ for the reactions $\ensuremath{\gamma}+N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0}+N$ and $\ensuremath{\gamma}+N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{N}^{*}+{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0}$ as a function of $s$ and ${\ensuremath{\phi}}_{\ensuremath{\gamma}}$ for fixed $t$, where ${\ensuremath{\phi}}_{\ensuremath{\gamma}}$ is the angle the polarization vector makes with the scattering plane. The behavior of $s(\frac{d\ensuremath{\sigma}}{\mathrm{dt}})$ at ${\ensuremath{\phi}}_{\ensuremath{\gamma}}=0$ determines whether cuts are present or not.