cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Role of Hepcidin in Anemia of Cancer

Anemia is a common occurrence in a wide variety of malignancies. When the anemia is not due to bleeding, bone marrow infiltration or chemotherapy, it is termed anemia of cancer (AC). AC is presumed to be a form of anemia of inflammation (AI, aka anemia of chronic disease). By limiting the availability of iron absorption from diet and release from stores, hepcidin causes AI. To test whether hepcidin contributes to AC, we created two syngeneic mouse models of lung cancer (TC-1 and LLC) and a syngeneic mouse model of melanoma (B16-F10). In all three models, significant anemia developed (Hgb 10.9±2.0, 9.1±2.0, 7.8±2.0 for TC-1, LLC, and B16-F10 vs. 13.7±1.2 for controls; p<0.001 for all compared to controls). There was no evidence of bleeding in the tumors or intraperitoneally. The anemia was microcytic in TC-1 mice but not LLC or B16-F10. Hepcidin mRNA (hepatic production measured by qRT-PCR) was increased in TC-1 mice but not LLC or B16-F10. To test whether hepcidin was necessary for the development of anemia in the TC-1 model, we generated tumors in hepcidin knockout mice. Hgb did not fall significantly in hepcidin knockout mice with TC-1 induced tumors (Hgb 14.5±2.4 vs. 15.5±2.2, p=0.3). CONCLUSIONS: Hepcidin is necessary for the development of AC when hepcidin production is induced by the tumor and microcytosis is present. However, AC is likely a heterogenous disease; experiments are underway to determine whether hepcidin plays a role in cancers that do not upregulate hepcidin production or cause microcytosis.
Interpreters' knowledge and perceptions of childhood vaccines: Effect of an educational session.

Abstract Background Interpreters improve the care of patients with limited English proficiency. They can potentially act as unofficial health educators to help dispel misunderstandings about medical risks in a culturally appropriate manner. Somali parents in Minnesota are less likely to immunize their children for MMR than other parents because they believe the MMR vaccine causes autism. The low MMR vaccination rate contributed to measles outbreaks in the state in 2011 and 2017. Objective To investigate the effects of an educational session on interpreter beliefs and knowledge about childhood vaccines. Methods A large interpreter service in Minneapolis holds quarterly educational sessions for their interpreters. The investigators presented a one-hour interactive session on childhood vaccinations at one of the meetings. The interpreters were surveyed pre- and post-training to assess their (1) beliefs regarding childhood vaccines, (2) knowledge of childhood vaccination indications and safety, and surveyed pre-training about their perceived impact on patient decision-making. Results Fifty-five of the 78 interpreters attending the training session completed both the pre- and post-training surveys. Participants made significant improvements in their knowledge of vaccines after the training. Interpreters were less likely to believe that vaccines causes autism after the presentation (p = 0.02), and were more likely to indicate that the current evidence does not support a vaccine – autism connection (p Nineteen percent of the interpreters were from Somalia. Somali interpreters were significantly more likely to expand on what is said by the physician than their non-Somali colleagues (OR = 16.2, 95% CI = 2.8–92.9). They were also significantly more likely to encounter parental worry over vaccine safety (OR = 16.2, 95% CI = 1.9–140.5), and to believe that children get too many vaccines (OR = 30.1, 95% CI = 3.4–271.5). Conclusions The training was an effective method to improve interpreters’ knowledge and perceptions of vaccine safety. By training Somali interpreters, they can become a part of a team working toward better MMR vaccination rates.
A comparative study of composite shear specimens using the finite-element method

Four specimens for the in-plane shear behavior of fibrous composites are analyzed for elastic stress distributions. Rigid and elastic fixtures as well as mechanical and thermal loading are considered. Results are presented in the form of stress contours, stress profiles, and stress concentrations for [0], [0/90] s and [0/′45/90] s laminates. It is shown that the assumption of rigid-fixture rail shear specimens predicts regions of uniform pure shear, but that the inclusion of elastic fixture effects introduces normal stresses in the test section. These results also indicate that the shear stress in the test section may differ from the average value by as much as 10 percent, depending upon laminate configuration. Results are also presented for slotted coupon, crossbeam, and a double V-notched specimen.
Performance of the Magcool-Subcooler Cryogenic System After SSC Quadrupole Quenches

The subcooler assembly installed in the MAGCOOL magnet test area at Brookhaven National Laboratory has been used for testing SSC dipoles, quadrupoles and a spool piece since 1989. A detailed description of the system, its steady state capacity and the performance after quenches of a 50 mm SSC dipole were given1,2. Subsequent studies on low current quenches of the SSC dipoles3 and quenches of the RHIC dipoles4 were also carried out. In this paper, the performance of the subcooler after quenches of the SSC quadrupole QCC404 is presented. Pressures, temperatures and flow rates in the magnet cooling loop after magnet quenches are given as a function of time. The cooling rates and total energy removed by cooling during quench recovery have been calculated for quench currents between 2000 and 7952 amperes. Because the inductance of the quadrupole is about one tenth that of a SSC dipole, the stored energy released is small and the impact on the system is mild. The cooling loop pressure never exceeds 12 atmospheres and the cryogenic system recovers in less than 15 minutes. As in all past studies, the peak pressure and temperature in the magnet cooling loop are linearly proportional to the energy released during a quench and excellent agreement between the total cooling provided and the magnetic stored energy is found.
Flower Color Variation in Jones' Penstemon, Penstemon ×jonesii Pennell (P. eatonii A. Gray × P. laevis Pennell) (Plantaginaceae)

Penstemon × jonesii is described as having flowers with the colors of “Tyrian rose,” “amaranth purple,” or “red-purple to maroon.” It has been recorded only in localized areas of southwestern Utah and just over the border of Arizona, where both putative parents commonly occur in sandy soils. Penstemon × jonesii has been reported and widely accepted as a natural hybrid of P. laevis × P. eatonii, though no research has been conducted to verify this assumption. We examined claims of its hybrid origin by making interspecific reciprocal first-generation hybrid plants from the 2 suspected parental species (P. eatonii and P. laevis) as well as by making second-generation hybrids through backcrossing to both parental species. Using 9 Penstemon simple sequence repeat (SSR), or microsatellite, markers, we examined the allelic variation among natural populations of P. × jonesii, P. eatonii, and P. laevis in southwestern Utah. These SSR data, in conjunction with our controlled crosses, support claims that P. × jonesii likely descends from hybridization events between P. eatonii and P. laevis. Flower color of the typical P. × jonesii reported in the literature and found in herbarium samples does not resemble the flower color of F1P. eatonii × P. laevis hybrids from our controlled crosses. However, in subsequent controlled backcrossing of the F1 hybrids to P. eatonii, we found blossom morphotypes and corolla colors matching previous descriptions of P. × jonesii. We also observed many hybrids with lighter corolla colors, such as light pinks, pinkish yellows, and lavender, which are not recorded in the literature or found in herbarium specimens. Field surveys for natural color variation in P. × jonesii populations also revealed greater flower color variation than previously reported, which should be considered as part of this hybrid taxa as well, though the predominant floral colors of P. × jonesii are “Tyrian rose,” “amaranth purple,” and “red-purple to maroon,” which suggests some selective bias. We suggest that pollinator preference for dark red to purple blooms may be responsible for this phenomenon.
The Long-Term Mental Health Effects of COVID-19

The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has affected the mental health of health care professionals and the general population Most of the research has focused on the immediate and short-term implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a paucity of research available exploring the long-term mental health effects Experience with previous disasters has shown that survivors suffer from various mental health problems including posttraumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, phobias, fears with avoidant behaviors, and various neuropsychiatric disorders There has been an increased incidence of substance use and internet addiction along with increased rates of domestic violence and child abuse Social distancing is helpful in limiting the spread of the disease, but the impact of social distancing and quarantine has resulted in increased anxiety among the general population The long-term mental health effects are anticipated to be intensified due to the pandemic affecting people worldwide Mitigation strategies need to be implemented as there will be no vaccine available to limit the long-term mental health effects of this pandemic [Psychiatr Ann 2020;50(12):522–525 ]
Para-Aortic Nodal Radiation in the Definitive Management of Node-Positive Cervical Cancer.

Objectives To investigate the safety and outcomes of elective para-aortic (PA) nodal irradiation utilizing modern treatment techniques for patients with node positive cervical cancer. Methods Patients with pelvic lymph node positive cervical cancer who received radiation were included. All patients received radiation therapy (RT) to either a traditional pelvic field or an extended field to electively cover the PA nodes. Factors associated with survival were identified using a Cox proportional hazards model, and toxicities between groups were compared with a chi-square test. Results 96 patients were identified with a mean follow up of 40 months. The incidence of acute grade ≥ 2 toxicity was 31% in the elective PA nodal RT group and 15% in the pelvic field group (Chi-square p = 0.067. There was no significant difference in rates of grade ≥ 3 acute or late toxicities between the two groups (p>0.05). The KM estimated 5-year OS was not statistically different for those receiving elective PA nodal irradiation compared to a pelvic only field, 54% vs. 73% respectively (log-rank p = 0.11). Conclusions Elective PA nodal RT can safely be delivered utilizing modern planning techniques without a significant increase in severe (grade ≥ 3) acute or late toxicities, at the cost of a possible small increase in non-severe (grade 2) acute toxicities. In this series there was no survival benefit observed with the receipt of elective PA nodal RT, however, this benefit may have been obscured by the higher risk features of this population. While prospective randomized trials utilizing a risk adapted approach to elective PA nodal coverage are the only way to fully evaluate the benefit of elective PA nodal coverage, these trials are unlikely to be performed and instead we must rely on interpretation of results of risk adapted approaches like those used in ongoing clinical trials and retrospective data.
Understanding the farm data lifecycle: collection, use, and impact of farm data on U.S. commercial corn and soybean farms

Enthusiasm regarding the “digital agriculture” revolution is widespread, yet objective research on how commercial farms actually use data and data services remains limited. The purpose of this research is to better understand the current positioning of U.S. commercial corn and soybean farms within the farm data lifecycle, including the collection, use, and impact of farm data. Using survey data from a sample of 800 commercial-scale U.S. corn and soybean farms, the factors associated with progression within the farm data lifecycle are examined. Results indicate that the majority of commercial U.S. corn and soybean farms collect data, indicate that the data they collect influences their decisions, and perceive positive yield benefits as a result of their data-informed decisions. However, farms vary in intensity of their data usage. Investments in data management and analysis resources are associated with progression within the farm data lifecycle. These investments comprise software products that manage and analyze data, including creating GPS maps, layering different data sources, and generating recommendations. Investments in human capital, either in on-farm employees with designated data responsibilities or in trusted off-farm service providers, are also associated with progression within the farm data lifecycle. Farms that have not yet invested in these types of data management and data analysis resources may be forfeiting the potential benefits associated with using their farm’s data to improve on-farm decision making.
A Comparison of Rural and Urban Dermatology

Understanding rural and non-rural populations as recipients of dermatologic care and creating a diverse dermatology work force to serve them is no doubt a formidable challenge with high stakes. As you will see in the coming text, rural populations are aging at an alarming rate, less likely to be racially or ethnically diverse, have lower household median incomes, and are more likely to be uninsured. The dermatology workforce at this time is regrettably, mal positioned to care for all rural patients as dermatologists themselves age, migrate to more urban settings, and are more likely to be employed by larger hospital systems. Not only is the density of general dermatologists unfavorable for rural residents, it is less likely that patients will have access to subspecialists within dermatology, including pediatric dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons. Additionally, diversity within the field represents an area for improvement and the intended utilization of non-physician clinicians to fill gaps in care deserves thoughtful consideration.
Transcriptional signatures in iPSC-derived neurons are reproducible across labs when differentiation protocols are closely matched.

Abstract Reproducibility of expression patterns in iPSC-derived cells from different labs is an important first step in ensuring replication of biochemical or functional assays that are performed in different labs. Here we show that reproducible gene expression patterns from iPSCs and iPSC-derived neurons matured and collected at two separate laboratory locations can be achieved by closely matching protocols and reagents. While there are significant differences in gene expression between iPSCs and differentiated neurons, as well as between different donor lines of the same cell type, transcriptional changes that vary with laboratory sites are relatively small. These results suggest that making great efforts to match protocols, reagents and technical methods between labs may improve the reproducibility of iPSC-derived cell models.
Quantum mechanics in an entirely deterministic universe

It is argued that, according to the suggested interpretation of quantum mechanical probabilities, (1) the Bell inequalities are not equivalent with those inequalities derived by Pitowsky and others that indicate the Kolmogorovity of a probability model, (2) the original Bell inequalities are irrelevant to both the question of whether or not quantum mechanics is a Kolmogorovian theory as well as the problem of determinism, whereas (3) the Pitowsky-type inequalities are not violated by quantum mechanics, hence (4) quantum mechanics is a Kolmogorovian probability theory, therefore, (5) it is compatible with an entirely deterministic universe.
Electromechanics of Particles: Theory of particle chains

Introduction to chaining and review of previous work Closely spaced particles subjected to an electric or magnetic field interact electromechanically through the agency of their induced dipole and higher-order moments. Depending on the relative alignment of the particles, the mutual forces of interaction can be attractive or repulsive. In general, similar particles attract each other when aligned parallel to an applied field and repel each other when in perpendicular alignment. At close spacings, these interaction forces can become quite strong. There are two complementary physical interpretations of such interparticle electromechanics: one approach considers dipole–dipole interactions, while the other focuses upon the distortion of the applied field in the vicinity of each particle. The dipole–dipole interaction model stems from the “action-at-a-distance” physical interpretation of electrodynamics. Figure 6.1a shows two similar particles oriented with their line of centers parallel to the applied field. The induced dipoles clearly attract each other, irrespective of the sign of the Clausius–Mossotti function K (defined in Table A. 1 in Appendix A), just as do two permanent magnets when similarly aligned. On the other hand, when the particles are aligned perpendicular, as depicted in Figure 6.1b, they repel each other, again just as two permanent magnets aligned side by side would do. The other interpretation of field-induced particle interactions focuses on the localized field disturbance caused by dielectric, conductive, or magnetic particles. For K > 0, the field is intensified near the poles and reduced near the equator. The reverse occurs when K
The Brown Morph of the Northern Ringneck Snake, Diadophis punctatus edwardsii , on Big Tancook Island, Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia

I describe a brown morph of the Northern Ringneck Snakes ( Diadophis punctatus edwardsii ) that occurs in a population on Big Tancook Island, Mahone Bay, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, Canada.
A Spectral Domain Decomposition Method and Its Application to the Simulation of Shear-Stratified Turbulence

Environmental flows are replete with situations where shear and stratification coexist, and many attempts have been made to understand the generation and evolution of turbulence in stratified shear flows. Early studies have been made using laboratory simulations (Webster [32] and Rohr et al. [29]), but with increasing computer power, direct numerical simulations (DNS) and large eddy simulations (LES) have become powerful tools for studies of shear-stratified turbulence. There are many reports with numerical approaches, most of them using DNS (Gerz et al. [12], Holt et al. [14], Jacobitz et al. [16] and Werne et al. [33]) and others using LES (Kaltenbach et al. [17]).
Core Algorithms of the Maui Scheduler

The Maui scheduler has received wide acceptance in the HPC community as a highly configurable and effective batch scheduler. It is currently in use on hundreds of SP, O2K, and Linux cluster systems throughout the world including a high percentage of the largest and most cutting edge research sites. While the algorithms used within Maui have proven themselves effective, nothing has been published to date documenting these algorithms nor the configurable aspects they support. This paper focuses on three areas of Maui scheduling, specifically, backfill, job prioritization, and fairshare. It briefly discusses the goals of each component, the issues and corresponding design decisions, and the algorithms enabling the Maui policies. It also covers the configurable aspects of each algorithm and the impact of various parameter selections.
Interdendritic fluid flow and macrosegregation; influence of gravity

An analysis is given of interdendritic flow behavior during solidification of castings and ingots, assuming resistance to flow is as in other types of porous media. Driving forces for the flow are solidification contractions and gravity acting on a fluid of variable density. Detailed flow calculations are given for horizontal, unidirectional, steady-state solidification, using aluminum-copper alloys as examples. Conditions are quantitatively described under which gravity induced convection becomes an important contributory cause of macrosegregation. A critical condition of flow is shown to produce local melting with resulting formation of “channel-type” segregates. Qualitative examples are given of application of the ideas presented to interpretation of macrosegregation in commercial ingots, with specific reference to centerline segregation and “channel-type” segregation, including “V” segregates, “A” segregates and “freckles”.
Perspectives on How FDA Assesses Exposure to Food Additives When Evaluating Their Safety: Workshop Proceedings

Food additives and substances considered “generally recognized as safe” must not be allowed in food unless there is a reasonable certainty in the minds of competent scientists that the substance is not harmful under the intended conditions of use. Scientists determine safety by ensuring that the expected exposure is less than the acceptable daily intake. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides guidance documents to assist safety assessors in this analysis. A November 2011 workshop sponsored by The Pew Charitable Trusts, the Institute of Food Technologists, and the journal Nature reviewed the agency's exposure assessment approaches. More than 70 experts from government (including FDA), industry, academia, and public interest organizations examined the principles underlying dietary exposure assessments for substances added to human food, and responded to questions about current methods. FDA's approach was seen as serving the agency reasonably well, but participants identified opportunities for improvement. Although reaching a consensus was not a goal, general agreements emerged that FDA should develop a science-based framework to prioritize and reassess prior safety decisions, and conduct more extensive postmarket monitoring. Participants discussed the possibility of harmonizing different approaches to assess dietary exposure. They generally agreed that collaboration, communication, and exchanging scientific information between agencies and stakeholders would help assessors use the most current information to make better decisions. Participants identified data gaps and opportunities to fill the gaps using new tools and technologies. Participants generally agreed on the need to consider all dietary sources in a cumulative dietary exposure assessment.
Effect of disruptions on service quality and market share: Evidence from the U.S. domestic airline industry

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of disruptions on service quality and market share in the U.S. domestic airline industry. Structural equation modeling was used to empirically test the effect of disruptions on service quality and market share for the network and low-cost airlines. The findings suggested that network airlines could manage disruptions more effectively than low-cost airlines. Although disruptions had a negative effect on service quality for both network and low-cost airlines, their effect on airline market share was different. Disruptions had a significant (negative) effect on market share for the low-cost airlines, whereas they did appear to affect market share for the network airlines. Multigroup analysis of invariance was used to compare the effect of disruptions on service quality and market share between airlines. The analysis showed that the effect of disruptions on service quality and market share was different between airlines. On the basis of the findings of t...
Studies on the Phosphorus Requirement of Turkey Breeder Hens with Evidence for Unknown Factors Needed for Embryonic Development and Normal Egg Production

Abstract THE phosphorus requirement of turkey breeder hens has not received much study. The National Research Council (1960) suggests that a level of 0.75 percent total phosphorus be provided in the turkey breeder diet, however work at this station (Wilcox et al., 1957) has indicated that the withdrawal of a phosphorus supplement from a practical-type breeder ration had no effect on egg production, fertility of eggs or hatchability of fertile eggs. Pepper et al. (1958) have reported similar results for laying hens. The lack of definitive work made it seem desirable to study the phosphorus requirement of turkey hens more thoroughly. EXPERIMENTAL Broad Breasted Bronze (BBB), Beltsville Small White (BSW), and/or Broad White (BW) turkey hens were used in the experiments. The turkey hens were housed in indoor floor pens having straw litter over concrete floors. Limitations of facilities and space did not permit replication of treatments in experimental pens. Males…
Adaptive hpq-finite element methods of hierarchical models for plate- and shell-like structures

Abstract A four-step adaptive strategy for hpq-finite element approximations of hierarchical models of the thin plate- and shell-like structures is derived based on a priori and a posteriori error estimations. This strategy controls three parameters; the model level q, the mesh size h, and the approximation order p so as to produce quasi-optimal hierarchical models and finite element meshes. Numerical results are given supporting the theoretical results.
The Glow to Arc Transition - A Critical Review

Only recently has a well-substantiated model of the low-pressure glow to arc transition become available as a result of a series of highly controlled experiments performed during the period 1958 to 1966. This model cites insulating particles at the cathode surface as responsible, due to their charging and subsequent breakdown which produce an initial burst of vapor. This paper consists of a review and critical evaluation of these experiments and an elucidation of the model.
Performance of a buried radioactive high level waste (HLW) glass after 24 years

A radioactive high level waste glass was made in 1980 with Savannah River Site (SRS) Tank 15 waste. This glass was buried in the SRS burial ground for 24 years but lysimeter data was only available for the first 8 years. The glass was exhumed and analyzed in 2004. The glass was predicted to be very durable and laboratory tests confirmed the durability response. The laboratory results indicated that the glass was very durable as did analysis of the lysimeter data. Scanning electron microscopy of the glass burial surface showed no significant glass alteration consistent with the results of the laboratory and field tests. No detectable Pu, Am, Cm, Np, or Ru leached from the glass into the surrounding sediment. Leaching of {beta}/{delta} from {sup 90}Sr and {sup 137}Cs in the glass was diffusion controlled. Less than 0.5% of the Cs and Sr in the glass leached into the surrounding sediment, with >99% of the leached radionuclides remaining within 8 centimeters of the glass pellet.
Bilateral infiltrating lobular carcinoma of the breast with osteoclast-like giant cells.

: A case of bilateral infiltrating lobular carcinoma of the breast containing osteoclast-like giant cells is presented. Notable pathologic features include prominent tumor-associated angiogenesis and the presence of osteoclast-like giant cells in axillary lymph node metastases. Immunohistologic and ultrastructural examination support a nonepithelial, histiocytic origin for the giant cells, and results are similar to previous reports of osteoclast-like giant cells associated with breast carcinoma. This is the first report of bilateral pure infiltrating lobular carcinoma of the breast with osteoclast-like giant cells and the first case of pure lobular carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells present in lymph node metastases.
SiC Research and Development at United Silicon Carbide Inc.?Looking Beyond 650?1,200 V Diodes and Transistors [Happenings]

For over a decade now, silicon carbide (SiC) Schottky diodes have been used in myriad high performance power-conversion applications. Currently, the largest among these applications is power factor correction utilizing 650-V SiC Schottky diodes. The introduction of SiC transistor offerings at 1,200 V, beginning in 2010 with junction field-effect transistors (JFETs) and followed by SiC metal?oxide?semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) and bipolar junction transistors in subsequent years, is simply the beginning of a wave of commercial devices of increasingly high voltage and current ratings. In this column, we describe the direction that United Silicon Carbide Inc. (USCi) is taking in advancing the state of the art of SiC devices following the introduction of our suite of 650- and 1,200-V diodes and JFETs to the marketplace in early 2014.
Image data acquisition, processing, storage and display

It is important to optimize each stage of image formation to minimize and take the greatest advantage of X-ray dose used. For each stage (acquisition, processing, and display) an optimum exists within the limits of physical laws and current technology. These laws must be understood and the technologic limitations imposed by them appreciated to acquire the maximum information from digital subtraction angiography (DSA) examinations.
LOXL1 deficiency negatively impacts the biomechanical properties of the mouse vagina and supportive tissues

Mice deficient in lysyl oxidase-like1 protein (LOXL1−/−) develop pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We sought to determine the impact of LOXL1−/− on the biomechanical properties of the vagina and its supportive tissues tested as a complex. Tissues of nulliparous LOXL1−/− and age-matched wild type (WT) mice were tested to failure to obtain load-distension curves. Data were compared utilizing one-way analysis of variance and appropriate post hoc tests. The groups demonstrated different biomechanical behavior, with LOXL1−/− animals displaying a 31% decrease in ultimate load at failure (p=0.001). Experimental disruption of specific levels of support in WT mice failed to generate load-distension curves similar to the LOXL1−/− mice indicating a global instead of a site-specific tissue defect. The decrease in the ultimate load at failure in the LOXL1−/− mice suggests mechanically weaker tissues. LOXL1 mutation results in a global defect in connective tissues and correlates with altered biomechanical behavior of the vagina and supportive tissues.
Pre-Translational and Post-Translational Regulation of TSH Synthesis in Normal and Neoplastic Thyrotrophs

We are interested in the mechanisms by which endocrine and developmental factors regulate TSH synthesis at both pre-translational and post-translational levels. Thyroid hormone profoundly decreases tr
Improvements in the simulation of kernel number and grain yield in CERES-Wheat

Abstract Crop simulation models can be used to quantitatively evaluate alternatives ranging from agronomic management issues to climate change, thus the need for precision and accuracy in these types of evaluation. The objective of this study was to improve the simulation of kernels/m2 (KNO), kernel weight (KWT) and grain yield in CERES-Wheat (V 3.0, CW3), while preserving the original structure of the model. The modified model incorporates four changes: (a) KNO was determined as a function of increase in spike weight from the opening of the flag leaf sheath to 50% anthesis; (b) simulation of kernel set reduction due to high temperature; (c) a new temperature function for simulating kernel fill rate was developed; (d) the amount of stem reserves was reduced by assuming that their accumulation ceases at the beginning of the grain-filling period. The modified model (CWM) was compared against published field data of the cultivars Arapahoe and Karl 92 from 31 sowings conducted over 6 years at Lincoln and Mead, Nebraska. For both cultivars, the root mean square error (RMSE) of simulated KNO went from 4312 kernels/m2 with CW3 to 2608 kernels/m2 with the modified model; RMSE of simulated KWT went from 2.41 mg with CW3 to 2.78 mg with the modified model; and yield RMSE went from 1241 kg ha−1 with the CW3 to 811 kg ha−1 with the modified model. Consideration of reductions in kernel set due to high temperature improved simulated KNO, but was cultivar dependent. CW3 simulated KWT well because KNO was overestimated.
Are we improving care of Medicare patients undergoing primary prevention implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation?

Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated the benefit of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) for the primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in selected high-risk populations.1–5 On the basis of the results from clinical trials and incorporation of evidence into practice guidelines, >12 000 ICD implantation procedures are now performed each month in the United States.6 After publication of the Sudden Cardiac Death in Heart Failure Trial (SCD-HeFT), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expanded coverage for the implantation of primary prevention ICDs for Medicare beneficiaries. This was accompanied by the decision for Coverage with Evidence Development (CED), mandating that all implantations in Medicare patients be recorded in a prospective registry, now the National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR), as a requirement for reimbursement. There has been increased focus related to the potential use of this therapy outside criteria specified in selected clinical trials, and the possibility of potential overuse of ICDs has also been raised, heightened by recent Department of Justice investigations that included use of ICDs in situations in which gaps in evidence exist.7 Because ICD therapy is costly, the need to measure the long-term outcome of patients receiving ICDs for primary prevention indications in an aging population has been recognized, allowing assessment of outcomes beyond the confines of randomized, clinical trials.8 Article see p 845 Were elderly patients (≥65 years) well represented in clinical trials to support the practice of implantation in the Medicare population? Although no trial specifically focused on ICD use in the elderly, primary prevention ICD trials have included a substantial number of elderly patients (Table). In real-life clinical practice, 61% of ICD recipients in the United States are ≥65 years of age,9 with an average age of 67.3±13.0 years in the NCDR.6 Thirty percent of patients are 70 …
Electrochemical properties of thin parlodion membranes

Thin membranes (50-800 A. thick) formed by spreading a solution of Parlodion in isoamyl acetate on the air-water interface have been characterized. The electrical resistance and capacitance of these membranes prepared from each of the three Parlodion concentrations viz., 5, 10, and 20 mg./ml. solution, have been measured as functions of both membrane thickness and external electrolyte (KCI) concentration. Capacitance values corroborate the thickness inferred from the weight of material transferred to cover a fixed area. Membrane resistance drops with increase in thickness. Resistivity of a membrane 100 A. thick rises with decrease in external electrolyte concentration. Acid and alkaline solutions of KCI lower membrane resistance due to increased porosity of the membrane brought about possibly by the hydrolysis of the membrane material. Membrane potentials arising across these membranes also have been measured as functions of both membrane thickness and external electrolyte concentration. The bi-ionic potentials confirmed the usual order of penetrability of alkali metal ions observed in artificial membranes. A study of the effect of pH on membrane potentials indicates that the electrochemical activity of the membrane may be attributed to the presence of odd and terminal carboxyl groups in the nitrocellulose matrix of the membrane.
Site-Specific mTOR Phosphorylation Promotes mTORC1-Mediated Signaling and Cell Growth

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 (mTORC1) functions as a rapamycin-sensitive environmental sensor that promotes cellular biosynthetic processes in response to growth factors and nutrients. While diverse physiological stimuli modulate mTORC1 signaling, the direct biochemical mechanisms underlying mTORC1 regulation remain poorly defined. Indeed, while three mTOR phosphorylation sites have been reported, a functional role for site-specific mTOR phosphorylation has not been demonstrated. Here we identify a new site of mTOR phosphorylation (S1261) by tandem mass spectrometry and demonstrate that insulin-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling promotes mTOR S1261 phosphorylation in both mTORC1 and mTORC2. Here we focus on mTORC1 and show that TSC/Rheb signaling promotes mTOR S1261 phosphorylation in an amino acid-dependent, rapamycin-insensitive, and autophosphorylation-independent manner. Our data reveal a functional role for mTOR S1261 phosphorylation in mTORC1 action, as S1261 phosphorylation promotes mTORC1-mediated substrate phosphorylation (e.g., p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 [S6K1] and eukaryotic initiation factor 4E binding protein 1) and cell growth to increased cell size. Moreover, Rheb-driven mTOR S2481 autophosphorylation and S6K1 phosphorylation require S1261 phosphorylation. These data provide the first evidence that site-specific mTOR phosphorylation regulates mTORC1 function and suggest a model whereby insulin-stimulated mTOR S1261 phosphorylation promotes mTORC1 autokinase activity, substrate phosphorylation, and cell growth.
Intracranial Pressure Elevations During Octanoate Infusion in Rabbits: an Experimental Model of Reye's Syndrome

Summary: Continuous intravenous infusion of the short-chain fatty acid octanoate into rabbits results in significant increases in intracranial pressure by 2 hr of infusion. Pressure waves are also observed. Muscular paralysis has a protective effect on in tracranial pressure. This study has potential implications for the better understanding and more effective treatment of Reye's syndrome. Speculation: Intravenous infusion of sodium octanoate in rabbits produces an experimental model of Reye's syndrome, including elevated intracranial pressure. This model will be useful to test new therapeutic modalities for control of intracranial pressure in this disorder.
Preparation and properties of Au-/n/AlxGa1-xAs-/n/GaAs Schottky barrier solar cells

Abstract A model for Au-(n)AlxGa1−xAs-(n)GaAs Schottky barrier solar cells is derived. Theoretical analyses indicate that a cell of this type can be designed to have a short-circuit current density of the same magnitude as that of an ordinary AuGaAs Schottky barrier solar cell, while the open circuit voltage is greater and increases with Al composition x. Analysis shows that a Au-(n)Al0.3Ga0.7As-(n)GaAs Schottky barrier solar cell with an appropriate antireflection coating can be designed to have an open circuit voltage of 0.76 V, a short circuit current density of 30 mA/cm2, a fill factor of 0.87 and a conversion efficiency of 19.5% when irradiated with an input power density of 100 mW/cm2. It is further shown that, in order to have good collection efficiency of the photogenerated electron-hole pairs in the GaAs layer, the AlGaAs layer thickness d must be less than 1000 A. This result was confirmed by spectral response measurements. Experimental Au-(n)AlxGa1−xAs-(n)GaAs Schottky barrier solar cells with AlGaAs layers of approximately 500 A were constructed. The measured open circuit voltages of typical cells are 0.53, 0.62, 0.69, 0.68 and 0.70 V when x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5, respectively. A cell with no antireflection coating in which x = 0.3 and d = 460 A , when tested under an AM1 sunlight simulator at 100 mW/cm2 input power density, gave open circuit voltage, short circuit current density, fill factor and conversion efficiency of 0.69 V, 15.5 mA/cm2, 0.74 and 7.9%, respectively.
Effects of Tb doping on the photoluminescence of Y2O3:Tb nanophosphors

Abstract The effects of Tb doping on the photoluminescence (PL) of Y 2 O 3 :Tb nanophosphors have been investigated. Nanophosphors were prepared by the glycine–nitrate solution combustion technique using yttria and terbia powders as precursors. PL excitation spectra at room temperature consist of two overlapping bands centered at 277 and 304 nm, whereas emission spectra comprise several groups of lines corresponding to the 5 D 4 → 7 F J ( J =1–6) 4f electronic transitions of the Tb +3 ions. A direct comparison of nanophosphor and bulk concentration-quenching curves was obtained by annealing the nanophosphor powder and converting it to bulk material without altering the Tb concentration. The peak in the nanophosphor concentration-quenching curve occurs at a concentration ∼3 times higher than that of the bulk.
Physical properties of hot, dense matter: The bulk equilibrium approximation

Abstract Starting from a Skyrme effective nucleon-nucleon interaction, we calculate the properties of hot matter at densities up to a little beyond that of nuclear matter. We neglect effects associated with finite nuclear size, such as surface and Coulomb energies, but include all effects associated with the bulk properties of the neutron-proton matter over a range of proton concentrations. The region of coexistence of two distinct nuclear phases is mapped out, as a function of the average proton fraction of the two-phase mixture. We present the neutron and proton chemical potentials, and the densities and proton fractions of the two coexisting phases, as functions of density and temperature. The density dependence of the nuclear contribution to the pressure is given along isotherms for a range of proton fractions. Including electron, positron and photon contributions to the entropy, we calculate the density dependence of the pressure along adiabats, and discuss the distribution of the entropy among the components. Some information is also given about hot matter in β-equilibrium. Comparison is made with earlier work.
Onset of Oscillations in Nonsoliton Pulses in Nonlinear Dispersive Fibers

We study the modulation equations for the amplitude and phase of smoothed rectangular pulse initial data for the defocusing nonlinear Schrodinger (NLS) equation in the semiclassical limit, and show that these equations exhibit shock formation. In this way we identify and explain one source for the onset of pulse oscillations in nonlinear fibers whose transmission is modeled by the semiclassical NLS equation. The onset of pulse ripples predicted here develops on the leading and trailing slopes of a smooth pulse, as a consequence of shock formation in the modulation equations. This mechanism for the onset of pulse ripples is distinct, both in the location and timescale, from the scenario pursued by Kodama and Wabnitz [11]: A piecewise linear pulse evolves for distances O(1) down the fiber, beyond which oscillations develop associated with the vanishing of the upper step of the pulse [10]. Here we show that the scenario in [11] is correct, but specific to pure rectangular pulses ; any smoothing of this data fails to obey their scenario, but rather is described by the results presented here. That is, the semiclassical limit of the NLS equation is highly unstable with respect to smooth regularizations of rectangular data. In our analysis, the onset of oscillations is associated with the location of the maximum gradient of the pulse slopes, and onset occurs on the pulse slopes, at short distances down the fiber proportional to the inverse of this maximum gradient. Explicit upper and lower bounds on the initial shock location are derived. We thereby deduce the onset for this source of pulse degradation scales linearly with the pulse width, and scales with the reciprocal square root of the fiber nonlinear coefficient, the pulse power, and the fiber dispersion coefficient.
Corticotropin-releasing factor receptor expression in the pituitary of fetal sheep after lesion of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus.

Both the capacity of CRF to release ACTH and the number of binding sites for CRF in the anterior pituitary decline during the final weeks of gestation in fetal sheep. The present study examined regulation of pituitary CRF receptor expression by the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) during late gestation in fetal sheep. Bilateral radiofrequency lesions of the PVN (PVN-Lx; n = 4) or sham lesions (SHAM; n = 5) were performed in fetal sheep at 118–122 days of gestational age (dGA). Pituitary glands from PVN-Lx and SHAM fetuses were collected at 139–142 dGA (term, approximately 148 dGA). Dual-label in situ hybridization was performed using a digoxigenin-labeled ovine POMC complementary RNA, together with a 35S-labeled ovine CRF type I (CRF1) receptor complementary RNA, to localize and quantify CRF1 receptor mRNA in POMC-hybridizing cells. Binding of[ 125I]-ovine CRF was also examined in the fetal pituitary of both PVN-Lx and SHAM fetuses using in situ autoradiography. The hybridization signal for the ...
Nutrient uptake by a diverse spring ephemeral community.

Net production by the six most abundant species in a diverse spring ephemeral community was 66.8 g/m2, and net uptake of nitrogen and potassium were 5.5 and 4.5 kg/ha respectively. These uptake rates are relatively large compared to those reported previously and to other fluxes of these nutrients in the site.
Intraepithelial Mast Cells in Gingival Lichen Planus: An Ultrastructural Study

Intraepithelial mast cells, identified by ultrastructural criteria, were seen in lesions of gingival lichen planus. The mast cells were found either singly, interspersed among keratinocytes, or in combination with other mononuclear cell types, especially lymphocytes. The mast cells were seen in regions with relatively normal intercellular spaces, as well as in regions of more severly disrupted keratinocytes. They had cytologic features indicative of active synthesis and release of granules. Moreover, the finding of centrioles in several intraepithelial mast cells, in combination with certain other cytologic features, suggested that these cells might be in an early stage of differentiation. It is speculated that intraepithelial mast cells have a role in the pathogenesis of gingival lichen planus.
The Woodlawn School Mental Health Training Program: A Community-Based University Graduate Course.

Abstract The observance of traditional jurisdictional boundaries in the training of human service professionals has contributed heavily to the general failure of these professions to provide adequate and effective services. This article describes the rationale, design, and development of a community-based school mental health training program that seeks to establish constructive collaboration between those principals most influential in the mental health of young school children-educators, mental health professionals, parents, and the children themselves. A single curriculum for both professionals and parents and the diversity of professional disciplines involved are two of the unique aspects of this training program.
The Association of 5-HTTLPR XLL Genotype with Higher Cortisol Levels in African Americans

Genetic variants of the human serotonin transporter (SERT) may contribute to HPA axis dysregulation. SERT has two promoter region polymorphisms (5-HTTLPR: VNTR and SNP: rs25531), which may alter levels of SERT protein and its function. Combining these polymorphisms creates a functional polymorphism (FN) which may modulate mRNA expression. This study examines the relationship between these genetic variants and morning and evening salivary samples of both cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) concentrations in 269 African American (AA) adults. Resultant allele frequencies for the VNTR, SNP, and FN genotypes were 70% L (2% XLL), 84% A, and 54% LA (2% XLLA), respectively. The XLL genotype was associated with significantly higher concentrations of cortisol (~3X) and DHEAS (~2X) for both VNTR and FN polymorphisms. No significant differences were found for SNP genotypes. Conclusions were that persons with VNTR and FN XLL polymorphisms had significantly higher cortisol and DHEAS concentrations than other genotypes. AAs also appear to have a higher frequency of the rare XL allele than Caucasians. Whether the XLL genotype predisposes AAs to greater health challenges will require further research to determine the implications of these findings.