cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lipid Catabolism of Invertebrate Predator Indicates Widespread Wetland Ecosystem Degradation

Animals frequently undergo periods when they accumulate lipid reserves for subsequent energetically expensive activities, such as migration or breeding. During such periods, daily lipid-reserve dynamics (DLD) of sentinel species can quantify how landscape modifications affect function, health, and resilience of ecosystems. Aythya affinis (Eyton 1838; lesser scaup; diving duck) are macroinvertebrate predators; they migrate through an agriculturally dominated landscape in spring where they select wetlands with the greatest food density to refuel and accumulate lipid reserves for subsequent reproduction. We index DLD by measuring plasma-lipid metabolites of female scaup (n = 459) that were refueling at 75 spring migration stopover areas distributed across the upper Midwest, USA. We also indexed DLD for females (n = 44) refueling on a riverine site (Pool 19) south of our upper Midwest study area. We found that mean DLD estimates were significantly (P<0.05) less than zero in all ecophysiographic regions of the upper Midwest, and the greatest negative value was in the Iowa Prairie Pothole region (-31.6). Mean DLD was 16.8 at Pool 19 and was markedly greater than in any region of the upper Midwest. Our results indicate that females catabolized rather than stored lipid reserves throughout the upper Midwest. Moreover, levels of lipid catabolism are alarming, because scaup use the best quality wetlands available within a given stopover area. Accordingly, these results provide evidence of wetland ecosystem degradation across this large agricultural landscape and document affects that are carried-up through several trophic levels. Interestingly, storing of lipids by scaup at Pool 19 likely reflects similar ecosystem perturbations as observed in the upper Midwest because wetland drainage and agricultural runoff nutrifies the riverine habitat that scaup use at Pool 19. Finally, our results underscore how using this novel technique to monitor DLD, of a carefully selected sentinel species, can index ecosystem health at a landscape scale.
The structure of bacterial cellulose

Abstract Electron microscopic observations show that the cellulose built by Acetobacterium xylinum occurs in the form of fibres having about the same diameter (ca 250 A) as that of the fibrils of cellulose from the cell walls of nemerous plants. In Bacterium xylinum these strands are synthesized outside the cells and can therefore be examined especially well under the electron microscope. The bacteria first secrete a structurally homogeneous slimy substance within which, after a short time, the cellulose fibres can be seen forming. This secreted substance appears to be a precursor of cellulose whose polymerization proceeds outside the organisms persumably with the help of an enzyme. In older cultures the cellulose strands have become so intertwined as to build a rigid framework.
Computational study on the kinetics and mechanisms for the reactions of HCO with HONO and HNOH

The kinetics and mechanisms of the HCO reactions with HONO and HNOH have been studied at the G2M level of theory based on the geometric parameters optimized at BH&HLYP/6-311G(d,p). The rate constants in the temperature range 200–3000 K at different pressures have been predicted by microcanonical RRKM and/or variational transition state theory calculations with Eckart tunneling corrections. For the HCO + HONO reaction, hydrogen abstraction from trans-HONO and cis-HONO by HCO produces H2CO + NO2, with the latter being dominant. Two other channels involving cis-HONO by the association/decomposition mechanism via the HC(O)N(O)OH intermediate, which could fragment to give H2O + CO + NO at high temperatures, were also found to be important. For the HCO + HNOH reaction, three reaction channels were identified: one association reaction giving a stable intermediate, HC(O)N(H)OH (LM2), and two hydrogen abstraction channels producing H2CO and H2NOH. The dominant products were predicted to be the formation of LM2 at low temperatures and H2NOH + CO at middle and high temperatures. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 36: 178–187 2004
The correlation of seizures in newborn infants with significant acidosis at birth with umbilical artery cord gas values.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To correlate umbilical blood gas variables with neonatal seizures in neonates with significant acidosis at birth (pH ≤ 7.1). METHODS: We reviewed the maternal and neonatal charts of 238 patients at a gestational age of 32 weeks or more with cord gases done at delivery and an umbilical artery pH of 7.1 or less. All infants transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit were studied, and those with neonatal seizures secondary to hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy were identified. We used the perinatal outcome of early neonatal seizures secondary to hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy to divide the patients into two groups. The relationship between the umbilical artery parameters of pH, base deficit, partial oxygen pressure (pO2), partial carbon dioxide pressure (pCO2), and the neonatal outcome of seizures were determined with Student t tests and multiple logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Umbilical artery base deficit, pO2, and pCO2 were significantly elevated in newborns who had seizures, whereas cord pH was decreased. Using multiple regression analysis the variable neonatal seizure was predicted only by low umbilical artery pH. A pH of less than 7 was more sensitive (73.8%) than a base excess of −16 (52.5%) in predicting the development of neonatal seizures. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that severe fetal acidemia identified by a pH less than 7.0 was the most important umbilical blood gas variable for predicting early onset of neonatal seizures.
The concept of mental disorder: On the boundary between biological facts and social values.

Although the concept of mental disorder is fundamental to theory and practice in the mental health field, no agreed on and adequate analysis of this concept currently exists. I argue that a disorder is a harmful dysfunction, wherein harmful is a value term based on social norms, and dysfunction is a scientific term referring to the failure of a mental mechanism to perform a natural function for which it was designed by evolution. Thus, the concept of disorder combines value and scientific components. Six other accounts of disorder are evaluated, including the skeptical antipsychiatric view, the value approach, disorder as whatever professionals treat, two scientific approaches (statistical deviance and biological disadvantage), and the operational definition of disorder as "unexpectable distress or disability" in the revised third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (American Psychiatric Association, 1987). The harmful dysfunction analysis is shown to avoid the problems while preserving the insights of these other approaches.
Advancing realism in biodiversity research

Numerous experimental studies suggest that biodiversity loss is detrimental to ecosystem functions such as production and nutrient cycling. These experiments, however, have been criticized as unrealistic because they use combinations of species that do not resemble what is observed in nature. Bracken et al. take a novel approach, using species combinations observed in the field and computer simulations to explore many other combinations. Their approach represents a significant advance in making biodiversity research more realistic.
Paleoepidemiology of a central California prehistoric population from CA-Ala-329: dental disease.

Ala-329 is a prehistoric central California site located on the southeastern margin of San Francisco Bay, dating from approximately 500 AD up to pre-European contact. A large earth mound, Ala-329, has yielded many well preserved burials, approximately 300 of which are included in this study. The most common pathological lesions seen in this population are in the dentition. Advanced attrition is pervasive, affecting all individuals with teeth in occlusion for 2 years or more. Deciduous teeth are involved even in very young children and often show severe wear before replacement. In the permanent dentition, all elements are involved by the second decade; in the oldest age category (41 + years), all individuals show severe wear throughout their dentitions. In fact, by the end of the third decade, the majority of individuals have no enamel remaining. Mild periodontal involvement is found in 74% of adults, socket resorption in 53%, and abscesses in 31% of the relevant sample. Interestingly, although dental abscesses are found more than twice as often among males, socket resorption is seen more often among females. Dental caries are seen in only 10 individuals. The high incidence of peridontal remodeling, socket resorption, and dental abscesses is probably a secondary result of severe dental attrition. It is hypothesized that a large quantity of abrasives in the diet is responsible for the extreme degree of attrition, in fact, among the most severe for any population yet described. “Something is always going wrong with our teeth. They don't last anything like a lifetime, usually. What chain of events in evolution should we thank for our mouthfuls of rotting crockery?” —Kurt Vonnegut, Galapagos, 1985.
Operating Characteristics of the Stratoscope II Balloon-Borne Telescope

The operation of a precision telescope system suspended in near space by a large balloon presents hardware problems and conditions uniquely different from ground-based astronomical equipment. The hostile environment, the weight limitations, the remote commanding, the platform stability, and the need for extreme pointing accuracy (to accommodate the diffraction-limited optical system) demand that special attention be given to both hardware and operating techniques. Stratoscope II, an unmanned balloon-borne 36-inch telescope, was floated at an 80 000-foot altitude during one night in May, 1968. The ground-commandable telescope acquired, tracked, and photographed several stellar objects. Pointing inaccuracy was 0.015 on 5th magnitude stars and 0.05 on 7.5 magnitude stars, this despite a temperature gradient across the telescope tube which degraded the images that are both photographed and tracked by the telescope. Details on telescope configuration, pointing method, focusing, and thermal problems are given.
EMPHASIS OF THE GROWTH EFFECT OF PROLACTIN ON THE CROP GLAND OF THE PIGEON BY ARREST OF MITOSES WITH COLCHICINE

The crop gland of the adult pigeon undergoes marked cyclic changes, which Champy and Colle connected with modifications in the gonads during the reproductive cycle (1, 2). Within the 10 days preceding the hatching of the young, the crop wall thickens approximately from 0.04 mm. to 4 mm., and many mitoses in the epithelium testify to this considerable growth (3, 4, 5, 6). Riddle, Bates and Dykshorn attributed the proliferation of the crop gland to a release of lactogenic hormone (prolactin) by the hypophysis, and reproduced it by injection of this hormone into adult or immature pigeons (7, 8). In a crop gland stimulated in this way two kinds of changes occur; namely, multiplication of the cells and deposition of fat globules in them. Mitoses found in the sections give evidence of the cellular multiplication. However, their number cannot be used as a test of the growth activity of the tissue, since observations on living tissues show short-periods of extensive mitotic activity interspersed with long periods...
Intravascular Application Of Hematoporphyrin Derivative Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) of diseased tissues with hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) within the cardiovascular system could be performed with a light-emitting antra-arterial optical fiber. However, the penetration of light at 631 nm through oxygenated whole blood first needs to be studied. In vitro studies were, therefore, performed to measure the transmission of 631 nm light, generated by an argon-ion pumped dye laser, through whole blood and serial dilutions of whole blood with the relatively translucent blood substitute Fluosol-DA. The results indicate that whole blood attenuates 631 nm light far greater than tissues, where HPD-PDT is currently applied, and that a 2 mm thickness of whole blood at a normal hematocrit may prevent a photodynamic tissue reaction when a conventional light dose is applied. Preliminary observations in rabbits treated in vivo with hematoporphyrin and 631 nm light via an intra-aortic optical fiber, with and without Fluosol-DA hemodilution, confirm these results. Hemodilution of whole blood with translucent liquids will enhance photodynamic tissue reactions and may be a necessary adjunct when this therapy is applied within the cardiovascular system.
Evaluation of Encarsia formosa (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) for Biological Control of Sweetpotato Whitefly (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) on Poinsettia

Biological control of the sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius), was undertaken using augmentative releases of the commercially available parasitoid, Encarsia formosa Gahan, on commercial poinsettia ( Euphorbia pulcherrima Wild.) stock plant production. Weekly releases of three to five parasitoids per plant were begun soon after the crop was planted (14 April) and continued until the end of poinsettia cutting production (1 September). The effect of E. formosa on the development of B. tabaci was significant on 14 and 16 of 21 weekly sampling dates for adults and immatures, respectively (unpaired t test, P = 0.05). In control cages, there were approximately a 10- and 100-fold greater number of adult and immature whitefly populations recorded, respectively, compared with the biological control area. Applications of insecticidal soap were required four times over the 5-mo duration of the trial when the level of whiteflies caught on yellow traps exceeded an a priori threshold level of 10–15 whiteflies per trap. Although a dramatic decrease in the whitefly population was observed in the biological control area, this was not sufficient to prevent whitefly egg deposition on terminal growth, which is the harvestable product. A combination of parasitoid releases, applications of insecticidal soap, and roguing obviously infested cuttings were required to produce export-quality cuttings. The strategy of using biological control in ornamental crop production is discussed in light of these results.
Time Diversification and Security Preferences: A Stochastic Dominance Analysis

We use stochastic dominance to test whether investor should prefer riskier securities as the investment horizon lengthens. Return distributions for stocks, bonds, and U.S. Treasury bills are generated for holding periods of one to 25 years by simulation. For each holding period, stochastic dominance tests are run to establish preferences between the alternative security classes. Contrary to previous mean-variance based studies, we find no evidence that high-risk securities (stocks) dominate low-risk securities (bonds, Treasury bills) as the investment horizon lengthens. However, we do find that corporate bonds systematically dominate government bonds.
All the Questions: Spirituality in the University

President Dennis H. Holtschneider, C.M., DePaul University. President Dennis H. Holtschneider in his conference remarks argues that young people are well served when they are given the opportunity to explore how ideas and philosophies themselves are changed or challenged by beliefs about the universe and the sacred presence that fills it.
A High Throughput Cell-based Screen Identifies Compounds That Inhibit the Viral Oncoprotein E6 in Human Papillomavirus-positive Cancers

previously demonstrated attenuation of DNA repair capacity in HERinhibited cells. We thus hypothesized that erlotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor which suppresses HER1/HER2 signaling, could induce a transient DNA repair deficit and subsequently induce synthetic lethality with the PARPi ABT-888 in esophageal cancer cells. Materials/Methods: Esophageal cancer cell lines, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, KYSE-30) and adenocarcinoma (adenoCa, OE-33) cells, were used in this study. Erlotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and ABT-888, a PARP1/2 inhibitor were used in this study. DNA damage and repair were assessed by immunofluorescence staining of cells for gH2AX and Rad51 foci. Cell viability was determined via cell proliferation assays. Results: Consistent with our hypotheses, erlotinib increased g-H2AX foci, a marker of DNA double strand breaks (DSBs), in esophageal SCC tumor cells. This coincided with reduced DSB-repair capacity as assessed via RAD51 foci. Esophageal SCC cells demonstrated no cytotoxicity with either agent alone (0.1-0.5 uM erlotinib and 1-10 uM ABT888), however a synthetic lethal relationship was observed with the combination treatment (50% decrease, p < 0.05). Surprisingly, esophageal adenoCa cells were sensitive to the PARPi, ABT-888, alone (45% decrease, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Thus, the combination of erlotinib and PARPi or the PARPi alone can be an innovative treatment strategy to enhance the therapeutic ratio and improve outcomes in esophageal SCC or adenocarcinoma cancer patients, respectively. Additional studies will be necessary to determine the mechanism by which adenoCa cells are sensitive to PARPi alone. Furthermore, this strategy may also be feasible for other HER overexpressing tumors, including lung, breast and brain cancers. Acknowledgment: This project is supported by the Bo Johnson Memorial Foundation. Author Disclosure: A.C. Whitley: None. J. Jackson: None. H. Trummell: None. J. Bonner: None. E.S. Yang: None.
Introduction of the American Pediatric Society's 2009 John Howland Award Recipient, Jerold F. Lucey, M.D.

Introduction of the American Pediatric Society's 2009 John Howland Award Recipient, Jerold F. Lucey, M.D.
Low incidence of IgA nephropathy in blacks.

Low incidence of IgA nephropathy in blacks. The clinical and pathologic features were evaluated in 106 IgA nephropathy patients identified in 1,753 consecutive patients undergoing renal biopsy in the southeastern United States. Special attention was paid to the proportion of Blacks among the IgA nephropathy patients compared with non-IgA nephropathy patients, and any differences in clinical or pathologic findings between Whites and Blacks with IgA nephropathy. The incidence of IgA nephropathy was approximately six times lower in Blacks (6 out of 461) than in Whites (100 out of 1,292) undergoing renal biopsy (P
Protection by the heavy metal chelator N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis (2-Pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN) against the lethal action of botulinum neurotoxin A and B

Abstract The ability of N , N , N ′, N ′-tetrakis (2-pyridylmethyl)-ethyenediamine (TPEN) to protect against botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) A and B was examined in vivo in mice. To determine the protective efficacy of TPEN, mice were injected i.p. with TPEN as a single bolus or as multiple injections 30 min before and 0, 2, 4 and 6 hr following i.v. challenges with BoNT-A or -B. TPEN treatment did not alter the 24 hr lethality of BoNT but did produce a significant delay in the time to death. For a moderate dose of serotype A (20 ld 50 ), five divided doses of TPEN prolonged the time to death from 7.8 ± 0.4 hr to 9.9 ± 0.5 hr. For serotype B, examined under comparable conditions, the prolongation of the time to death was from 6.1 ± 0.2 hr to 9.4 ± 0.6 hr. The range of TPEN doses that could be examined in vivo was limited by its acute toxicity. Although low doses of TPEN (≤ 10mg/kg) were well tolerated, higher doses ( ≥ 30 mg/kg) led to ataxia, loss of coordination, convulsions and death in 20.3 min or less. In clonal NG108-15 cells, TPEN was found to produce cytotoxicity as revealed by increases in the secretion of the marker enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and enhanced reactivity with the vital dye trypan blue. From LDH concentration-response data determined 24 hr after addition of TPEN, the threshold concentration for observing cytotoxicity was 10 μM and the ic 50 was 19.8 μM. At the highest TPEN concentration tested (100 μM), cytotoxicity was detected 8 hr after TPEN addition and increased in severity over a 3 day period. The cytotoxicity in NG108-15 cells appears to be distinct from the rapid-onset toxicity observed in whole animals. These results suggest that TPEN may be of potential benefit in delaying the lethal actions of BoNT-A and -B, but its use is limited by its initial and delayed toxicity. Since the therapeutic and toxic actions of TPEN are both related to zinc chelation, the use of TPEN would need to be restricted to low doses as part of a combination therapy.
Antiphospholipid Antibody-mediated Disruption of the Annexin-V Antithrombotic Shield: a Thrombogenic Mechanism for the Antiphospholipid Syndrome

The mechanism(s) for thrombosis and pregnancy losses in the anti-phospholipid antibody syndrome have not yet been established. Annexin-V is an anionic phospholipid-binding protein with potent anticoagulant activity. The protein has been shown to be necessary for the maintenance of placental integrity and may play a thromboregulatory role at the maternal-fetal interface. There, it assembles over the apical surfaces of the placental villi and shields the underlying anionic phospholipids from availability for complexation with coagulation proteins. We have proposed that thrombosis and pregnancy loss in the antiphospholipid syndrome may be due to the disruption of the annexin-V shield by antiphospholipid (and co-factor) antibodies. The data accumulated from tissue immunohistochemistry, trophoblast and endothelial cell culture studies, coagulation studies using non-cellular phospholipids, and competition studies on artificial phospholipid bilayer are consistent with this hypothesis.
Observation of transient cyclohexene and 1,4-cyclohexadiene radical cations. Time-resolved fluorescence-detected magnetic resonance

Abstract Transient radical cations of cyclohexene and 1,4-cyclohexadiene are characterized in pulse radiolysis in liquid hydrocarbons. Time-resolved fluorescence-detected magnetic resonance allows observation and EPR spectral assignment of these very short-lived radical cations. The olefin radical cations are created by charge transfer from saturated hydrocarbon solvent cations to the solute olefins.
Cellular Automata Communication Models: Comparative Analysis of Parallel, Sequential and Asynchronous CA with Simple Threshold Update Rules

In this paper, cellular automata (CA) are viewed as an abstract model for distributed computing. The author argues that the classical CA model must be modified in several important respects to become a relevant model for large-scale MAS. The paper first proposes sequential cellular automata (SCA) and formalizes deterministic and nondeterministic versions of SCA. The author then analyzes differences in possible dynamics between classical parallel CA and various SCA models. The analysis in this paper focuses on one-dimensional parallel and sequential CA with node update rules restricted to simple threshold functions, as arguably the simplest totalistic, yet non-linear (and non-affine) update rules. The author identifies properties of asymptotic dynamics that can be proven to be entirely due to the assumption of perfect synchrony in classical, parallel CA. Finally, the paper discusses what an appropriate CA-based abstraction would be for large-scale distributed computing, insofar as the inter-agent communication models. In that context, the author proposes genuinely asynchronous CA and discusses main differences between genuinely asynchronous CA and various weakly asynchronous sequential CA models found in the literature.
New Comparison of the Positron and Electron g Factors

A new double Penning trap structure has been built which permits one to trap a positron in a well-compensated experiment trap where measurements have yielded the geonium positron g-factor anomaly, g(e/sup +/)/2-1equivalenta(e/sup +/) = (1 159 652 222 +- 50) x 10/sup -12/. The uncertainty is based on the resonance linewidths and an estimate of the remaining systematic error associated with extrapolating to zero spin-flip power. When compared to the electron-spin anomaly, a positron/electron g-factor ratio of 1+(22 +- 64) x 10/sup -12/ is obtained.
Impact of Sarcopenia on Outcomes Following Resection of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

Introduction Assessing patient-specific risk factors for long-term mortality following resection of pancreatic adenocarcinoma can be difficult. Sarcopenia—the measurement of muscle wasting—may be a more objective and comprehensive patient-specific factor associated with long-term survival.
Fabrication of porous carbon nanofibers with adjustable pore sizes as electrodes for supercapacitors

Abstract We report a facile method for obtaining extremely high surface area and uniformly porous carbon nanofibers for supercapacitors. Blends of polyacrylonitrile and sacrificial Nafion at different compositions have been electrospun into non-woven nanofiber mats with diameters in the range of 200–400 nm. Electrospun nanofiber mats are then subjected to carbonization to obtain porous carbon nanofibers (CNFs) as polyacrylonitrile converts to carbon and Nafion decomposes out creating intra-fiber pores. Resultant porous CNFs exhibit specific surface area of up to 1600 m 2 g −1 with a large fraction of mesopores (2–4 nm). No additional chemical or physical activation process was used. We demonstrate the tunability of the pore sizes within CNFs by varying the amount of Nafion. The non-woven fiber mats of porous CNFs are studied as free-standing electrode materials for supercapacitors eliminating the need for polymeric binding agents. Electrochemical measurements showed large specific gravimetric and volumetric capacitances of up to 210 F g −1 and 60 F cm −3 in 1 M H 2 SO 4 at a high cyclic voltammetry scan rate of 100 mV s −1 due to the large fraction of mesopores. These materials retain 75% performance at a large current density of 20 A g −1 indicating excellent power handling capability.
Experimental quantification of heat and mass transfer process through vegetated roof samples in a new laboratory setup

Abstract A new experimental apparatus, “Cold Plate”, was designed and built to quantify heat and mass transfer processes for green roof samples inside an environmental chamber. The “Cold Plate” apparatus addressed shortcomings in the existing data sets available for green roof energy balance calculations. Experimental data collected in this apparatus show that evapotranspiration controlled the intensity of all other heat fluxes, depending on the plant and environmental conditions. Also, under the described laboratory conditions, the uninsulated green roof samples with plants showed an average heat flux reduction of 25% compared to samples without plants. This reduction was due to the plants providing extra shading, additional water storage and better water control mechanisms.
LEED observations of calibrated epitaxial nickel films on /111/ copper.

Low energy electron diffraction observation of calibrated epitaxial nickel film on /111/ copper
Operating the EOSDIS at the Land Processes DAAC: managing expectations, requirements, and performance across agencies, missions, instruments, systems, and user communities

NASA developed the Earth Observing System (EOS) during the 1990's. At the Land Processes Distributed Active Archive Center (LP DAAC), located at the USGS EROS Data Center, the EOS Data and Information System (EOSDIS) is required to support heritage missions as well as Landsat 7, Terra, and Aqua. The original system concept of the early 1990's changed as each community had its say -- first the managers, then engineers, scientists, developers, operators, and then finally the general public. The systems at the LP DAAC -- particularly the largest single system, the EOSDIS Core System (ECS) -- are changing as experience accumulates, technology changes, and each user group gains influence. The LP DAAC has adapted as contingencies were planned for, requirements and therefore plans were modified, and expectations changed faster than requirements could hope to be satisfied. Although not responsible for Quality Assurance of the science data, the LP DAAC works to ensure the data are accessible and useable by influencing systems, capabilities, and data formats where possible, and providing tools and user support as necessary. While supporting multiple missions and instruments, the LP DAAC also works with and learns from multiple management and oversight groups as they review mission requirements, system capabilities, and the overall operation of the LP DAAC. Stakeholders, including the Land Science community, are consulted regularly to ensure that the LP DAAC remains cognizant and responsive to the evolving needs of the user community. Today, the systems do not look or function as originally planned, but they do work, and they allow customers to search and order of an impressive amount of diverse data.
Structural differentiation of self-reported depression and anxiety in late life.

Abstract Research has shown impressive support for tripartite models of anxiety and depression that include a common factor of negative affect, and the unique factors positive affect and arousal. It is not clear whether this structure extends into later life. The current study used confirmatory factor analysis to model the structural relationship of anxiety and depression in two samples of older adults: a large probability sample ( N =1429) and a smaller convenience sample ( N =210). Across all analyses, a correlated, two-factor, psychometric model was most parsimonious. The tripartite model could be fit to the data, but added no explanatory power; in some cases a one-factor model also fit. The results suggest that there is a unitary factor of “distress” that incorporates anxiety and depression, but that the structure is not consistent with factor structures found in younger samples. Instead, the broad constructs may be represented in a more complex manner among older adults, and are less easily differentiated.
Virus-Specific CD4+ Memory-Phenotype T Cells Are Abundant in Unexposed Adults

Summary Although T cell memory is generally thought to require direct antigen exposure, we found an abundance of memory-phenotype cells (20%–90%, averaging over 50%) of CD4 + T cells specific to viral antigens in adults who had never been infected. These cells express the appropriate memory markers and genes, rapidly produce cytokines, and have clonally expanded. In contrast, the same T cell receptor (TCR) specificities in newborns are almost entirely naive, which might explain the vulnerability of young children to infections. One mechanism for this phenomenon is TCR cross-reactivity to environmental antigens, and in support of this, we found extensive cross-recognition by HIV-1 and influenza-reactive T lymphocytes to other microbial peptides and expansion of one of these after influenza vaccination. Thus, the presence of these memory-phenotype T cells has significant implications for immunity to novel pathogens, child and adult health, and the influence of pathogen-rich versus hygienic environments.
Affinity labeling of the nuclear vitamin D receptor with nonsteroidal alkylating agents

Abstract Synthesis of an affinity alkylating non steroidal mimic of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 and its radiolabeled counterpart is presented. We also report the affinity labeling of the VDR-ligand binding domain (VDR-LBD) with this analogue.
Exploration in the Nineteenth Century

When the Society for the History of Discoveries entrusted the publication of its Terrae Incognitae to Maney Publishers, the traditional quality of its content could finally be matched with design i...
Genetic programming: profiling reasonable parameter value windows with varying problem difficulty

Genetic Programming (GP) algorithms benefit from careful consideration of parameter values, especially for complex problems. We submit that determining the optimal parameter value is not as important as finding a window of reasonable parameter values. We test seven problems to determine if windows of reasonable parameter values for mutation rates and population size exist. The results show narrowing, expanding and static windows of effective mutation rates dependent upon the problem type. The results for varying population sizes show that less complex problems use more resources per solution with increasing population size. Conversely as the problem difficulty increases we see either no significant change in solution effort as population size increases, indicating constant efficiency or in some cases we discover decreasing solution effort with larger population sizes. This suggests that in general as the instances of a problem increase in difficulty increasing the population size will either have no effect on efficiency or, for some problems, will lead to relatively small increases in efficiency.
The dorsal tegmental nucleus: an axoplasmic transport study.

Abstract The afferent and efferent connections of the dorsal tegmental nucleus (DTN) were studied in the rat using axoplasmic transport techniques. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and Fast Blue were injected stereotaxically into either pars centralis or pars ventromedialis of the DTN, two subdivisions of the nucleus with distinctive connected with the ipsilateral lateral mammillary and interpeduncular neclei; these projections constitute the major afferent and efferent systems of the DTN. Commissural fibers from the corresponding pars centralis and intrinsic fibers systems are massive and form a complex fiber meshwork within the subnucleus. The prepositus hypoglossi nuclei (bilateral) also project to the pars centralis. Smaller numbers of afferent fibers arise from the lateral habenular nucleus, the posterior hypothalamus and the brainstem reticular formation. The pars ventromedialis of the DTN receives diverse inputs which include the septal nuclei, diagonal band of Broca, preoptic area, anterior and lateral hypothalamus, lateral and medial habenular nuclei, medial mammillary nucleus and many nuclei of the brainstem reticular formation. Based on the differences of connections and cytoarchitecture between the pars and the pars ventromedialis, the pars ventromedialis may be an entity separate from the dorsal tegmental nucleus.
The inhibition of peroxidase and indole-3-acetic acid oxidase activity by British Anti-Lewisite.

Abstract British Anti-Lewisite (BAL) binds to horseradish peroxidase in a manner which results in inhibition of both peroxidatic and oxidative functions of the enzyme. BAL competes with hydrogen peroxide for binding on peroxidase, and the inhibition of peroxidatic activity is irreversible. Solutions of purified horseradish peroxidase and individually resolved peroxidase isozymes show a gradual loss of peroxidatic activity with time when incubated with BAL. In these same treatments, however, the inhibition of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) oxidase activity is immediate. With increasing amounts of enzyme in the incubation mixture, IAA oxidase activity is not completely inhibited and is observed following a lag period in the assay which shortens with longer incubation times. Peroxidase activity during this same time interval shows a lag period which increases with longer incubation times. Lowering the pH removed the lag period for oxidase activity, but did not change the pattern of peroxidase activity. These results suggest that the sites for the oxidation of indole-3-acetic acid and for peroxidatic activity may not be identical in horseradish peroxidase isozymes.
GEOCHEMICAL EXPLORATION REFERENCE SAMPLES GXR-1 TO GXR-4 AND GXR-6: EVALUATION OF HOMOGENEITY BASED ON HIGH PRECISION ANALYSES

Homogeneity studies on the geochemical exploration reference samples GXR-1 through GXR-6 were initially based on analyses by methods of 10–30 percent relative standard deviations (rsds). Use of the materials for high-precision method validation requires that homogeneity be established using methods having rsds less than 1.0 percent, if possible. The current homogeneity study shows distinct in homogeneities in all GXR materials for some major, minor, and trace constituents.
Procedural Memory System Supports Single Cue Trace Eyeblink Conditioning in Medial Temporal Lobe Amnesia

A number of studies investigating trace eyeblink conditioning have found impaired, but not eliminated, acquisition of conditioned responses (CRs) in both animals and humans with hippocampal removal or damage. The underlying mechanism of this residual learning is unclear. The present study investigated whether the impaired level of learning is the product of residual hippocampal function or whether it is mediated by another memory system that has been shown to function normally in delay eyeblink conditioning. Performance of bilateral medial temporal lobe amnesic patients who had a prior history of participating in eyeblink conditioning studies was compared to a control group with a similar training history and to an untrained control group in a series of single cue trace conditioning tasks with 500 ms, 250 ms, and 0 ms trace intervals. Overall, patients acquired CRs to a level similar to the untrained controls, but were significantly impaired compared to the trained controls. The pattern of acquisition suggests that amnesic patients may be relying on the expression of previously acquired, likely cerebellar based, procedural memory representations in trace conditioning.
Disturbance of the pituitary-adrenal interrelationship in diseases of the central nervous system.

Of 14 patients with disorders of the hypothalamus or temporal lobes, 3 showed a disturbance of the reciprocal pituitary-adrenal interrelationship. These 3 patients failed to manifest evidence of increased pituitary ACTH secretion in response to lowered levels of plasma cortisol, as judged by the inability of the 11β hydroxylase inhibitor, Su-4885, to elicit the expected increase in urinary 17-KGS excretion. In these 3 patients there was no radiologic evidence of pituitary disease; the baseline excretion of 17-KGS was normal, and the adrenal response to intravenous ACTH was normal. Two of the 3 patients were tested with large doses of dexamethasone and failed to show the expected fall in urinary 17-KGS or 17-KS. It appears probable that the basic neurologic disorder in these patients had disrupted the normal function ofcertain central nervous system centers sensitive to varying levels of circulating glucocorticoids and controlling the modulation of pituitary ACTH secretion. One patient unresponsive to both...
Robustness of sampling and reconstruction and Beurling–Landau-type theorems for shift-invariant spaces

Beurling–Landau-type results are known for a rather small class of functions limited to the Paley–Wiener space and certain spline spaces. Here, we show that the sampling and reconstruction problem in shift-invariant spaces is robust with respect to two classes of probing measures as well as to the underlying shift-invariant space. As an application we enlarge the class of functions for which Beurling–Landau-type results hold.
Learning CPR With the BLS AnytimeTM for Healthcare Providers Kit

Abstract Background The BLS AnytimeTM for Healthcare Providers kit, when used for recertification, has yielded outcomes better than those of instructor-led courses. This study compared its effectiveness for initial and renewal certification. Method In a comparison group design, 39 individuals seeking initial certification and 49 individuals seeking renewal certification used the kit to learn or refresh skills and, while observed by an instructor, completed the skills test on manikins that captured objective performance data. Results and conclusions Learners performed equally well on knowledge, assessed skills, and performance after practice for equivalent lengths of time, demonstrating effectiveness of the kit for both initial and renewal certification.
Assessing corollary discharge in humans using noninvasive neurophysiological methods

In this paper, we present a vocal production protocol for studying the neurophysiological action of the corollary discharge, a mechanism that allows animals to ignore sensations resulting from their own actions, and tag them as 'self'. Electroencephalograms are recorded while subjects say 'ah' about 100 times with minimal throat, jaw and tongue movements (Talk condition). This sequence of sounds is recorded and played back during the Listen condition. Event-related potentials are synchronized to the onset of speech sounds during the Talk and Listen conditions. Neural responses from the auditory cortex to the spoken sound as it is being spoken during the Talk condition are compared with neural responses to the same sounds when played back during the Listen condition. The successful action of the corollary discharge is seen when the response of the auditory cortex is suppressed during the Talk compared with the Listen condition. The protocol takes about 5 min to complete.
Localization of receptors for kainic acid on neurons in the innernuclear layer of retina

Abstract Washed membranes from the chick retina exhibit saturable, specific and reversible binding of [3H]-kainic acid. Scatchard analysis of the binding isotherm reveals two apparent sites with KD's of 2 and 40 nM respectively; the lower affinity site accounts for 80% of total specific binding. Total specific binding shows marked stereoselectivity for l -glutamate and 100-fold lower affinity for dihydrokainate. Kainic acid lesion of the retina causes a profound and selective degeneration of the inner nuclear and inner plexiform layers; 10 days after the lesion, there is a 74% reduction in the total specific binding sites for [3H]-kainic acid which may mediate the neurotoxic action of the agent.
Toward automated haptic modeling using commercial haptic interfaces: surface normal estimation and static model identification

The use of commercial haptic interfaces to create models of the feel of physical objects has the potential to transform the field of haptic modeling by broadening the availability of haptic modeling technology. In this paper we develop methods that enable general haptic interfaces to actuate and measure the dynamic properties of physical objects and generate models of their behavior. Specifically, methods are presented that allow commercial haptic interfaces to 1) estimate interaction forces without the use of force sensors, 2) estimate surface normal directions, and 3) actuate objects and identify haptic models from experimental data. Results are presented for two 1-D push buttons, one foam ball, and one inflatable vinyl ball. Initial results suggest that the methods have promise, but challenges must be overcome related estimating forces without the use of force sensors.
Analysis of the properties of three-terminal transferred-electron logic devices

A two-dimensional analysis of Schottky-barrier gate GaAs logic devices utilizing the transferred-electron effect is described. The analysis is used to study the basic properties of two devices with anode to cathode spacing of 13 µm and 33 µm. The reduction in current drop due to the presence of the gate is discussed. The switching properties of the 13-µm device are studied for operation with either anode or cathode resistance. A gate delay of 30 ps and a total gate power of 180 mW is estimated.
Adaptive frequency control for ZVS synchronous boost converters operated in average current mode

For a zero-voltage switching (ZVS) synchronous boost converter, the power stage efficiency undergoes significant limitation when the load is outside the ideal range. In order to achieve optimum efficiency at a range of load conditions, the magnitude of the resonant current must be controlled. The most effective method to control resonant current is to adjust the converter's switching frequency. Though methods have been proposed as a solution to this issue, they are not compatible with average current mode control. In this paper, a two-loop solution is proposed, in which both the converter duty cycle and switching frequency are controlled in order to maintain the desired average inductor current under the ZVS condition. In support of this new adaptive frequency control, theoretical analysis, design criteria, as well as experimental validation are provided.
Ultraviolet Photometry of Stars Obtained with the Celescope Experiment in the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory

We have used the television photometers in the Celescope OAO experiment to measure the far ultraviolet brightnesses of several thousand stars, including parts of the constellations Draco, Lyra, Puppis, Vela, Taurus, and Orion; and the Moon. As of this date (22 July 1969), three of our four cameras continue to operate satisfactorily, and we are making measurements in additional star fields distributed throughout the sky. Our shortest wavelength band, which includes the Lyman α line of atomic hydrogen, provides information on the Earth’s outer atmosphere, as well as on star brightnesses. The intensity of the Lyman α radiation from the geocorona is a maximum when the Sun is near the horizon as seen by the OAO, and a minimum when the Sun is in the nadir. The direction that the telescope points does not much affect the measured intensities.
Mechanisms of Sec61/SecY-Mediated Protein Translocation Across Membranes

The Sec61 or SecY channel, a universally conserved protein-conducting channel, translocates proteins across and integrates proteins into the eukaryotic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane and the prokaryotic plasma membrane. Depending on channel-binding partners, polypeptides are moved by different mechanisms. In cotranslational translocation, the ribosome feeds the polypeptide chain directly into the channel. In posttranslational translocation, a ratcheting mechanism is used by the ER-lumenal chaperone BiP in eukaryotes, and a pushing mechanism is utilized by the SecA ATPase in bacteria. In prokaryotes, posttranslational translocation is facilitated through the function of the SecD/F protein. Recent structural and biochemical data show how the channel opens during translocation, translocates soluble proteins, releases hydrophobic segments of membrane proteins into the lipid phase, and maintains the barrier for small molecules.
Nonlinear slow light at high bit rates

Applications of various slow light schemes in nonlinear optics are considered. It is shown that most benefits of slow light fade away at high bit rates. A few realistic applications of slow light are identified.
Relaxation phenomena in high polymers

The principles of the nuclear magnetic resonance, NMR, and dynamic mechanical methods and their use for the investigation of segmental motion in high polymers are briefly discussed. Mechanical loss-temperature data have been obtained from 4.2°K. at audiofrequencies for various addition type high polymers along with NMR line-width or second moment and NMR spin-lattice relaxation time, T1, data from 77°K. The examples include a linear polymer, polyethylene, PE, four polymers with mono-substituted repeat units, polypropylene, poly(4 methyl pentene-1), poly(ethylacrylate) and polystyrene (PS), and three polymers with disubstituted repeat units, poly(methyl methitcrylate), poly(ethyl methacrylate) and poly(alpha methyl styrene). For all but PE and PS NMR line narrowing processes and T1 minima, attributed to methyl group reorientations, are found at low temperatures. Molecular motion, usually occurring above room temperature as a consequence of the glass to rubber transformation, leads to the appearance of a mechanical loss maximum, further NMR line narrowing, and a T1 minimum. Mechanical loss maxima, possibly due in some cases to side-chain (other than methyl) reorientations and in other cases to main chain oscillations are also evident.