cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Production of single plasmons and photons by neutrinos in a medium.

A neutrino passing through a dielectric medium with an index of refraction greater than unity can emit a single photon into the medium, and, in a related process, a neutrino passing through a conductor or semiconductor can emit a single plasmon into the medium. The rates for other processes are calculated, taking a simple electron gas as the medium for the plasmon calculation. Two forms of coupling of the neutrino to the electrons in the medium are considered: (1) the left-handed current coupling of the standard model; (2) a neutrino magnetic moment coupling. For the case of the largest magnetic moments allowed by other considerations, the plasmon process could be on the verge of rendering solar plasmon'' electron neutrinos (with energies {approx}2 keV) observable. The plasmon process also has some potential in the detection and identification of neutrinos of mass {gt}10 keV, and large magnetic moments.
Phase coupling and constant generation in an optimizing microcode compiler

The designer of an optimizing compiler must concern himself with the order in which optimization phases are performed; a pair of phases may be interdependent in the sense that each phase could benefit from information produced by the other. In a compiler for a horizontal target architecture, one such phase-ordering problem occurs between code-generation and compaction. Presented here is an overview of a research effort at Carnegie-Mellon University which has examined solutions to this problem. One aspect of the code generation problem-that of generating constants “intelligently”-is discussed in detail. A technique, called constant-unfolding, is described that can be used to produce code sequences that generate constants in “unusual” ways during execution; such code sequences can lead to more compact code when the literal field of the microinstruction is a “bottleneck”.
Solar neutrons and the earth's radiation belts.

The intensity and spectrum of solar neutrons in the vicinity of the earth are calculated on the assumption that the low-energy protons recently detected in balloon and satellite flights are products of solar neutron decay. The solar-neutron flux thus obtained exceeds the global average cosmic-ray neutron leakage above 10 Mev, indicating that it may be an important source of both the inner and outer radiation belts. Neutron measurements in the atmosphere are reviewed and several features of the data are found to be consistent with the estimated solar neutron spectrum.
A rapid assay for cdp reductase activity in mammalian cell extracts.

Abstract An assay for CDP reductase activity is described that utilizes standard methods of borate chromatography. It has the advantages of being more rapid and sensitive than previously described assay procedures, but the disadvantage of being useful only for reduction of cytidine nucleotides. It is particularly suitable for assaying low levels of activity in crude extracts and should be useful for following the purification of this activity from mammalian sources. The presence of CDP reductase activity in L1210 leukemic spleens is described.
CONJOINT CLINIC ON SEROTONIN, NOREPINEPHRINE AND TYRAMINE.

Dr. Sjoerdsma: Knowing that Dr. Lasagna, who invited me, is somewhat poetic and has written a popular book, I thought I would try to get into the act a little with the title of this presentation, namely: “Short stories on three amines-serotonin, norepinephrine, and tyramine.” This means that I will discourse in a fashion distinct from that used in many papers we have written on these amines. Just by way of a total viewpoint on my own interest in the amines, I will recall to you the technique one uses to make holy water. Namely, to take tap water and boil the hell out of it. If you will excuse this profanity, this is in essence what we’ve done with amines. Today, I thought I would simply give several vignettes concerning the development of some of our knowledge about three amines. To begin with, I will show schematically some of the background chemistry which applies to all three of them. Figure 1 is designed for the non-chemist so that those of you who are not chemists should please pay attention. There is nothing so complicated here that you need to close your eyes. The R group in each case represents an aromatic moiety and we are talking about aromatic amines. The R represents 5-hydroxyindole in serotonin, catechol in norepinephrine, and phenol in tyramine. These amines have in common. the fact that a decarboxylation step is required for their synthesis. In some instances, it is the decarboxylation of a dietary amino acid, for example, tyrosine to tyramine. In the case of serotonin and norepinephrine, there is an intermediary step involved from the dietary amino acid to the formation of the amine. There are two major fates for amines synthesized in the body. One is that they may be stored in tissues. In the case of norepinephrine and serotonin at least they are stored in an inactive form. (I might add at this point that we have recently found tyramine in tissues, where it is localized particularly to the central nervous system, highest levels being in the spinal cord.) They also have in common at least partial metabolism by monoamine oxidase which eventually yields an acid
The contractile basis of amoeboid movement: IV. The viscoelasticity and contractility of amoeba cytoplasm in vivo☆

Abstract The viscoelasticity and contractility of amoeba cytoplasm has been studied in vivo and in vitro. A gradient of increasing viscoelasticity and contractility was identified in the endoplasm of intact cells from the uroid (tail) to the fountain zone (tip of advancing pseudopod). Anterior endoplasm, as well as all of the ectoplasm, contracted in response to the microinjection of a threshold calcium ion concentration (ca 7.0 × 10 −7 M). In contrast, there were only delayed weak contractions in the uroid endoplasm upon the microinjection of a threshold calcium ion concentration. Contractions induced in the ectoplasm by microinjecting the contraction solution readily caused the endoplasm to stream. However, the endoplasm at the tips of the extending pseudopods were also contractile and transmitted applied tensions. Furthermore, the microinjection of subthreshold calcium ion concentrations caused the loss of distinct endoplasmic structure and the cessation of streaming in both the uroid and the anterior third of the cell. In addition, the relationship between contractility and cytoplasmic streaming was characterized in “relaxed” cytoplasm placed in a gradient of calcium ion concentration inside quartz capillaries. The results of these experiments demonstrated that the mechanochemical conversion of endoplasm to ectoplasm caused the cytoplasm to become more structured and contractile. Therefore, physiological contractions are possible during and after the conversion of endoplasm to ectoplasm.
PLASMA DEPOSITION OF ORGANIC THIN FILMS FOR SURFACE MODIFICATION

Plasma deposition of organic thin films represents a flexible strategy for tuning the surface chemistry of materials for specific applications. The advantages of such films are summarized, surface characterization is discussed and specific applications for biology and medicine are reviewed.
Brønsted Acid-Promoted Cyclizations of Siloxy Alkynes with Unactivated Arenes, Alkenes and Alkynes

Abstract In this article, we describe the development of a general concept for the development of new carbon–carbon bond-forming processes, which is based on Bronsted acid-mediated activation of a siloxy alkyne, followed by efficient interception of the resulting highly reactive ketenium ion by unactivated arenes, alkenes or alkynes. We found that trifluoromethane sulfonimide (HNTf 2 ) proved to be a superior promoter of these reactions compared to a range of other Bronsted acids. This finding could be attributed to a high acidity of HNTf 2 in aprotic organic solvents combined with a low nucleophilicity of the NTf 2 − anion. Depending on the nature of the nucleophile, the carbocyclizations proceeded either via 6-endo-dig or 5-endo-dig manifolds. In the case of 1-siloxy-1,5-diynes, the cyclizations occurred with a concomitant halide abstraction or arylation.
A priori assessment of the subgrid scale viscous/scalar dissipation closures in compressible turbulence

An appraisal is made of several subgrid scale (SGS) viscous/scalar dissipation closures via a priori analysis of direct numerical simulation data in a temporally evolving compressible mixing layer. The effects of the filter width, the compressibility level and the Schmidt number are studied for several models. Based on the scaling of SGS kinetic energy, a new formulation for SGS viscous dissipation is proposed. This yields the best overall prediction of the SGS viscous dissipation within the inertial subrange. An SGS scalar dissipation model based on the proportionality of the turbulent time scale with the scalar mixing time scale also performs the best for the filter widths in the inertial subrange. Two dynamic methods are implemented for the determination of the model coefficients. The one based on the global equilibrium of dissipation and production is shown to be more satisfactory than the conventional dynamic model.
Infant Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging Using Oscillatory Ventilation: Safe and Effective

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) for infants and young children typically requires sedation. General anesthesia with controlled ventilation can eliminate motion artifact with breath-holds during imaging to limit respiratory artifact, but these may lead to atelectasis or other complications. High-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) provides ventilation with near-constant mean airway pressure and minimal movement of chest wall and diaphragm, thus obviating the need for breath-holding. Clinical data were collected for 8 infants who underwent CMR with HFOV and 8 controls who underwent CMR with conventional ventilator and breath-hold technique. Data included demographic information, adverse events, and scan-acquisition time. Studies were reviewed for image quality by two cardiologists who were blinded to type of ventilation. There were no significant differences in patient characteristics between the two groups. There was no significant difference in average image quality for cine short-axis or black blood imaging. Total CMR scan time was not significantly different between groups, but the short-axis cine stack was acquired more quickly in the HFOV group (1.8 ± 0.8 vs. 5.0 ± 3.6 min). There were no adverse events in the HFOV group, but scans were terminated early for two patients in the conventional ventilator group. HFOV during CMR is feasible and well tolerated. Image quality is equivalent to that obtained with conventional ventilation with breath-holding technique and allows shorter cine scan times for some sequences.
A Detailed Investigation of Projection Effects Relevant to the Study of Powerful Classical Double Radio Sources

A detailed investigation of projection effects involved in the study of classical double sources is presented here. Theoretical calculations of the way projection effects enter empirically determined parameters are studied. It is shown that some parameters, such as the lobe width, are rather insensitive to the projection angle, while other parameters, such as the ambient gas density, are more sensitive. The deviation of the observed value from the true value of any given parameter is usually not significant when the projection angle is greater than about 60° and is significant only at very small projection angle, at which the symmetry axis of the source is pointing close to the line of sight to the observer. Applications of the theoretical model to a sample of classical double radio sources yield the following principal results: 1. A comparison between the radio-loud quasars and the radio galaxies in the sample suggests that their average projection angles are very similar. The average projection angle of the radio-loud quasars in the sample is greater than 35°-40° at the 3 σ level, assuming that the average projection angle of radio galaxies is 70° or above. 2. On average, the low-redshift radio-loud quasars in the sample have much lower lobe surface brightness and lower nonthermal pressure than the low-redshift radio galaxies, a result which cannot be explained by projection effects. This is consistent with the fact that the radio-loud quasars appear to be "fatter" than the radio galaxies, as previously noted by Leahy, Muxlow, & Stephens. 3. The study of departures of the magnetic field strength from that estimated using the minimum-energy conditions suggests that the projection angle of Cygnus A is greater than about 40° (at 3 σ) to 55° (at 2 σ), in agreement with the independent results of Sorathia et al. These departures also indicate that the projection angles of most of the sources in the sample, including galaxies and quasars, are likely to be greater than about 30° (at 3 σ) to 40° (at 2 σ). This result does not depend on any assumptions about the average projection angle of radio galaxies and is consistent with result 1 stated above. Thus, it is very unlikely that projection significantly affects key parameters, such as the ambient gas temperature and density, for the sources studied here.
The Culture-Embedded Social Problem of Elder Mistreatment: A Review of International Literature on Asian Elders

Elder mistreatment is now recognized as a worldwide social problem occurring in all racial and ethnic groups. The research on elder mistreatment started in the late 1970s and expanded its focus to ethnic elderly groups including Asian elders in the mid-1980s. Many researchers have explored the issues of elder mistreatment in conjunction with Asian elders’ culture and immigration backgrounds. This article reviews the state of the literature on elder mistreatment among Asians living in Asia or abroad to identify future directions of research, prevention, intervention, and policy. This research indicates that prevention, education, and intervention must take into account the cultural backgrounds of Asian elders and their family members. There is clearly a need for greater research into appropriate elder mistreatment prevention and intervention with Asian elders and their family members.
LED for high data rate, optical communications☆

Abstract The frequency response of light emitting diodes (LED's) in an edge, as opposed to surface, configuration is examined. We find that the frequency response is not limited by parasitic space charge capacitance, and thus, modulation frequencies in excess of 200 MHz can easily be obtained. If the internal heterojunction geometry is suitably arranged, it is possible to minimize coupling losses into low numerical aperature fibers so that these LED's are attractive sources for optical communications systems utilizing high data rates. Output power in excess of 1 mW at drive currents of ∼200 mA is typical.
Preparation and properties of biodegradable foams from starch acetate and poly(tetramethylene adipate-co-terephthalate) ☆

Abstract Biodegradable composite foams were prepared by extruding starch acetate, with degree of substitution (DS) 1.78, with poly(tetramethylene adipate- co -terephthalate) (EBC). The foams' chemical structures, thermal behaviors, and microstructures were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). By measuring these properties, it was found that low EBC contents in the blends favored the miscibility of the two polymers, as characterized by (1) disappearance of EBC carbonyl peak and appearance of hydrogen-bonded EBC carbonyl groups in FTIR spectra; (2) an increase in T g of starch acetate and the decreases in T m values of starch acetate and EBC in DSC thermograms; and (3) formation of a homogeneous morphology in SEM. However, large amounts of EBC decreased the miscibility of these two polymers, as reflected by the foams' physical and mechanical properties. With a small amount of EBC, the foams had high radial expansion ratios (RER) and spring indices (SI) and low unit densities and compressibilities. Biodegradation rates of the composite foams decreased with the addition of EBC to starch acetate.
The distribution of ConA-binding sites on oocyte nuclear envelopes

Abstract Ferritin-conjugated concanavalin A (ConA) was used as an electron-opaque tracer to study the distribution of oligosaccharides on nuclear envelopes isolated from amphibian oocytes. ConA was not detected in the pore complexes or along the nucleoplasmic or cytoplasmic surfaces of the envelope. However, lectin binding did occur along the membrane surfaces which line the perinuclear space, and the binding reaction could be inhibited by preincubating the ferritin-conjugated ConA with α-methyl-mannoside.
Z-disc-associated, alternatively spliced, PDZ motif-containing protein (ZASP) mutations in the actin-binding domain cause disruption of skeletal muscle actin filaments in myofibrillar myopathy.

The core of skeletal muscle Z-discs consists of actin filaments from adjacent sarcomeres that are cross-linked by α-actinin homodimers. Z-disc-associated, alternatively spliced, PDZ motif-containing protein (ZASP)/Cypher interacts with α-actinin, myotilin, and other Z-disc proteins via the PDZ domain. However, these interactions are not sufficient to maintain the Z-disc structure. We show that ZASP directly interacts with skeletal actin filaments. The actin-binding domain is between the modular PDZ and LIM domains. This ZASP region is alternatively spliced so that each isoform has unique actin-binding domains. All ZASP isoforms contain the exon 6-encoded ZASP-like motif that is mutated in zaspopathy, a myofibrillar myopathy (MFM), whereas the exon 8–11 junction-encoded peptide is exclusive to the postnatal long ZASP isoform (ZASP-LΔex10). MFM is characterized by disruption of skeletal muscle Z-discs and accumulation of myofibrillar degradation products. Wild-type and mutant ZASP interact with α-actin, α-actinin, and myotilin. Expression of mutant, but not wild-type, ZASP leads to Z-disc disruption and F-actin accumulation in mouse skeletal muscle, as in MFM. Mutations in the actin-binding domain of ZASP-LΔex10, but not other isoforms, cause disruption of the actin cytoskeleton in muscle cells. These isoform-specific mutation effects highlight the essential role of the ZASP-LΔex10 isoform in F-actin organization. Our results show that MFM-associated ZASP mutations in the actin-binding domain have deleterious effects on the core structure of the Z-discs in skeletal muscle.
Early recurrences of otitis media: Reinfection or relapse?

In a prospective study, 36 (35%) of 103 patients had early recurrence of acute otitis media. We wished to identify risk factors for early recurrences (those recurring within 1 month of initial diagnosis) and to determine if the second episode was caused by the same pathogen (relapse) or a new organism (reinfection). When the same bacterial species was recovered in both episodes, Streptococcus pneumoniae were serotyped and Haemophilus influenzae were classified by blotypes and by electrophoretic pattern of the outer membrane proteins. Twenty-nine patients underwent tympanocentesis at the time of the recurrent episode. In 13, no pathogen was recovered either initially or at the time of recurrence. Twelve (75%) of the remaining 16 patients had reinfection; only four (25%) had relapse. Thus, early recurrences of acute otitis media were more often caused by a new organism. This finding suggesis that underlying susceptibility to middle ear infection is important in the development of recurrent otitis media. Pediatricians should not assume that early recurrences are necessarily the result of failure of initial treatment. Tympanocentesis may be helpful in this setting to aid in choosing appropriate antibiotic therapy.
A pilot study on the effects of individually tailored education for MMR vaccine-hesitant parents on MMR vaccination intention

Healthcare providers need strategies to better address the concerns of vaccine-hesitant parents. We studied whether individually tailored education was more effective than untailored education at improving vaccination intention among MMR vaccine-hesitant parents. In an intervention pilot study of parents (n = 77) of children < 6 y who screened as hesitant to vaccinate against MMR (first or second dose), parents were randomly assigned to receive either (1) educational web pages that were individually tailored to address their specific vaccine concerns; or (2) web pages similar in appearance to the intervention but containing untailored information. The main outcome, change in vaccination intention before and after the intervention, was assessed using an 11-pt scale (higher values indicated greater intent). We found that a greater proportion of parents in the tailored than untailored arm had positive vaccination intentions after viewing educational information (58% vs. 46%). Furthermore, parents in the tailored group had a greater magnitude of change in vaccination intention (1.08 vs. 0.49 points) than participants in the untailored group. However, neither of these results was statistically significant. From this pilot study we conclude message tailoring may be an effective way to improve vaccine compliance among vaccine hesitant parents. However, larger studies are warranted to further investigate the efficacy of providing tailored education for increasing vaccine acceptance among parents with diverse beliefs.
Cleavage stage porcine embryos may have differing developmental requirements for karyopherins α2 and α3

Numerous cellular proteins are able to localize to the nucleus due to the fact that they possess a nuclear localization signal (NLS) in their amino acid sequence. Nuclear localization sequences recognized by the importin α/β heterodimer are found in cellular proteins capable of performing many diverse functions, ranging from chromatin remodeling to cell cycle regulation. Evidence has been presented that suggests individual importin α homologues are present at varying levels in different adult tissues. Other data have shown that specific subsets of NLSs found in different cellular proteins are recognized by individual importin α homologues with varying affinities. This evidence led us to hypothesize that due to the specific cargoes they carry, the mammalian embryo has different developmental requirements for individual importin α homologues. The results of the studies presented here indicate that importin α/β-mediated import occurs throughout early cleavage in the porcine embryo, as determined by a reporter protein microinjection assay, and that multiple importin α homologues are present throughout early cleavage, as determined by immunocytochemical analysis. An RNA interference approach was used in an attempt to determine the developmental requirements for specific importin α homologues during early cleavage in the porcine embryo. Results from this study showed that fertilized porcine embryos injected with double stranded RNA (dsRNA) corresponding to the importin α homologue karyopherin α3 had significantly fewer nuclei following four days of culture than did embryos injected with dsRNA for another importin α homologue, karyopherin α2, or two control groups. This is the first report indicating that mammalian embryos may have differential developmental requirements for specific nuclear trafficking pathways. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 64: 292–301, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Discovery and confirmation of genes/proteins associated with maize aflatoxin resistance

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the major crops susceptible to Aspergillus flavus infection and subsequent aflatoxin contamination. Many earlier studies indicated the roles of kernel proteins, especially constitutively expressed proteins, in maize resistance to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin production. In this review, we examined the past and current efforts in identifying maize genes and proteins from kernel, rachis, and silk tissues that may play an important role in resistance to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin contamination, as well as the efforts in determining the importance or involvement of them in maize resistance through biochemical, molecular and genetics studies. Through these studies, we gained a better understanding of host resistance mechanism: resistant lines appear to either express some stress-related and antifungal proteins at higher levels in endosperm, embryo, rachis and silk tissues before A. flavus infection or induce the expression of these proteins much faster compared to susc...
A functional trait perspective on plant invasion

Background and aims Global environmental change will affect non-native plant invasions, with profound potential impacts on native plant populations, communities and ecosystems. In this context, we review plant functional traits, particularly those that drive invader abundance (invasiveness) and impacts, as well as the integration of these traits across multiple ecological scales, and as a basis for restoration and management. Scope We review the concepts and terminology surrounding functional traits and how functional traits influence processes at the individual level. We explore how phenotypic plasticity may lead to rapid evolution of novel traits facilitating invasiveness in changing environments and then 'scale up' to evaluate the relative importance of demographic traits and their links to invasion rates. We then suggest a functional trait framework for assessing per capita effects and, ultimately, impacts of invasive plants on plant communities and ecosystems. Lastly, we focus on the role of functional trait-based approaches in invasive species management and restoration in the context of rapid, global environmental change. Conclusions To understand how the abundance and impacts of invasive plants will respond to rapid environmental changes it is essential to link trait-based responses of invaders to changes in community and ecosystem properties. To do so requires a comprehensive effort that considers dynamic environmental controls and a targeted approach to understand key functional traits driving both invader abundance and impacts. If we are to predict future invasions, manage those at hand and use restoration technology to mitigate invasive species impacts, future research must focus on functional traits that promote invasiveness and invader impacts under changing conditions, and integrate major factors driving invasions from individual to ecosystem levels.
Evaluating nanoparticle breakthrough during drinking water treatment.

Background: Use of engineered nanoparticles (NPs) in consumer products is resulting in NPs in drinking water sources. Subsequent NP breakthrough into treated drinking water is a potential exposure ...
First Reported Australian Case of Cladophilophora arxii: Features Consistent with Possible Primary Pulmonary Chromoblastomycosis

We describe the first case of possible pulmonary chromoblastomycosis in the absence of any identified cutaneous lesions in a relatively immunosuppressed man. The causative organism was Cladophialophora arxii, which is a rare pathogen that has only been described as causing human disease two times previously.
Private Property Rights and Forest Preservation in Karnataka Western Ghats, India

Areca nut orchard owners have been mulching their orchards with foliage from surrounding government‐owned deciduous forests at an average rate that may well deplete foliage within a decade, thereby endangering the long‐term viability of the region's most profitable agricultural enterprise. A bioeconomic model of areca nut production is formulated to determine the circumstances under which privatization of forest resources in the hands of orchard owners will stem this rapid depletion. An empirical application suggests that foliage is not currently sufficiently abundant to survive privatization; however, the prospects for preservation can be increased with the imposition of a preprivatization period of regulated use.
Non‐carrier‐added 186, 188Re labeled 17α‐ethynylestradiol: A potential breast cancer imaging and therapy agent

Receptor-targeted radiopharmaceuticals constitute potential agents for the diagnosis and therapy of cancer. Breast cancer is the most prevalent form of diagnosed cancer in women in the United States, and it accounts for the second highest number of cases of cancer fatalities (1). In Approximately two-thirds of the breast tumors, estrogen and progesterone steroid hormone receptors can be found. Such tumors can often be treated successfully with anti-estrogen hormone therapy (2). Hence, the ability to determine the estrogen receptor (ER) contend of the breast tumor is essential for making the most appropriate choice of treatment for the patient. Along with this diagnostic aspect, steroid-based radiopharmaceuticals with high specific activity offer an encouraging prospect for therapeutic applications: {sup 186,188}Re labeled steroids binding to receptors expressed by cancer cells appear to be potential agents for the irradiation of small to medium-sized tumors. {sup 186}Re has been regarded as an ideal radionuclide for radiotherapy due to its appropriate half-live of 90 h and {beta}-energy of 1.07 MeV. Moreover, the {gamma}-emission of 137 keV that allows in vivo imaging while in therapy is an additional bonus. {sup 188}Re is obtained from a {sup 188}W/{sup 188}Re radionuclide generator system, representing an advantage for availability at radiopharmacymore » laboratory by daily elution. In addition, {sup 188}Re emits high energy beta particles with an average energy of 769 keV, and the emission of the 155 keV allows simultaneous imaging for biodistribution evaluation in vivo. In order to avoid competitive saturation of the binding sites of the ligand receptor, Re labeled steroids with high specific activity are required, and the removal of all excess unlabeled ligands is mandatory. {sup 188}Re is eluted from a {sup 188}W/{sup 188}Re generator produced and provided by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (3). This paper outlines the solid phase-supported preparation of an n.c.a. [{sup 188}Re]Re-imido estradiol compound. The characteristic feature of the presented route is the simultaneous formation of the steroid-radioisotope linkage and release of the labeled steroid product into solution (4,5). The unlabeled ligand can then be separated by simple filtration.« less
Vegetarian diets and incidence of diabetes in the Adventist Health Study-2.

Aim: To evaluate the relationship of diet to incident diabetes among non-Black and Black participants in the Adventist Health Study-2. Methods and Results: Participants were 15,200 men and 26,187 women (17.3% Blacks) across the U.S. and Canada who were free of diabetes and who provided demographic, anthropometric, lifestyle and dietary data. Participants were grouped as vegan, lacto ovo vegetarian, pesco vegetarian, semi-vegetarian or non-vegetarian (reference group). A follow-up questionnaire after two years elicited information on the development of dia- betes. Cases of diabetes developed in 0.54% of vegans, 1.08% of lacto ovo vegetarians, 1.29% of pesco vegetarians, 0.92% of semi-vegetarians and 2.12% of non-vegetarians. Blacks had an increased risk compared to non-Blacks (odds ratio (OR) 1.364; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.093e1.702). In multiple logistic regression analysis controlling for age, gender, education, income, television watching, physical activity, sleep, alcohol use, smoking and BMI, vegans (OR 0.381; 95% CI 0.236e0.617), lacto ovo vegetarians (OR 0.618; 95% CI 0.503e0.760) and semi-vegetarians (OR 0.486, 95% CI 0.312e0.755) had a lower risk of diabetes than non-vegetarians. In non-Blacks vegan, lacto ovo and semi- vegetarian diets were protective against diabetes (OR 0.429, 95% CI 0.249e0.740; OR 0.684, 95% CI 0.542e0.862; OR 0.501, 95% CI 0.303e0.827); among Blacks vegan and lacto ovo vegetarian diets were protective (OR 0.304, 95% CI 0.110e0.842; OR 0.472, 95% CI 0.270e0.825). These associations were strengthened when BMI was removed from the analyses.
The Excitation of a Dielectric Rod by a Cylindrical Waveguide

This paper is a theoretical analysis of the excitation of the lowest circular symmetric TM surface wave along an infinite circular dielectric rod by a metallic cylindrical waveguide coaxial with the rod. The asymptotic expressions for all the fields are obtained by means of the Wiener-Hopf method. The expressions for the total average power transmitted to the surface wave, the total average power reflected, and the total power radiated, per unit incident power, are derived and computed for epsilon=2.49 for various radii of the dielectric rod.
System factorization in codesign. A case study of the use of formal techniques to achieve hardware-software decomposition

A major element of codesign is the task of decomposing a design in order to target some of its components to hardware and some to software while maintaining the integrity of the execution model. We illustrate how a previously- developed algebraic technique which we call 'system factorization', adapts to this notion of decomposition. As an example, we describe how the mechanization of system factorization was used in the formal derivation of an implementation of Hunt's (1992) FM9001 microprocessor description using the DDD (digital design derivation) system. This case study demonstrates the benefits to system-level design in combinational-reasoning systems, hardware synthesis tools, and a hardware development platform in an integrated prototyping environment. >
How Much Care Is Too Much Care

One of the most stressful situations physicians and nurses face is when we must provide care we feel is inappropriate for the patient. A number of negative repercussions tend to result. Two common ones are moral distress and burnout, both of which are important as well as closely associated with one another. Much has been written about moral distress and burnout in general in the intenive care unit (ICU). However, little academic research or analysis have focused on how the feeling that we are providing inappropriate care actually contributes to these 2 barriers that make it difficult to attract and keep the highest quality practitioners in our field.
Hedging with futures contracts in a deregulated electricity industry

This paper is a statistical study of direct and cross hedging strategies using futures contracts in an electricity market. A comparison of the strategies is based on the standard deviation or risk of the values of the hedging positions. Results indicate that the use of electricity futures contracts is superior to using other related futures contracts such as crude oil.
Haemoprotein-mediated metabolism of enamines and the possible involvement of one-electron oxidations

1. Microsomal metabolism of 1-benzylpiperidine (1-BP), its cis-2,6-dimethyl (cis-2,6-DMBP), 4,4-dimethyl (4,4-DMBP), and α,α-dimethyl (α,α-DMBP) analogues, and phencyclidine (PCP) has been studied to assess the involvement of P450 oxidation of the enamine tautomers of the initial endocyclic iminium metabolites.2. The selective prevention by cyanide of the metabolite production of 1-benzyl-3-piperidone but not 1-benzyl-3-piperidinol from 1-BP is consistent with the enamine as the source of the 3-one metabolite.3. The parent amines and particularly the independently prepared iminium species induced a pattern of metabolism-dependent irreversible inactivation of P450 benzphetamine demethylase activity, consistent with involvement of enamine C-3 oxidation in the inactivation process.4. Substrate activity of the endocyclic enamines and α-aminoketones (presumably the enol-enamine tautomers) for horseradish peroxidase under conditions where simple aliphatic amines display no activity is consistent with metabolic ...
Nucleosome patterning evolution: steady aim despite moving targets

Mol Syst Biol. 6: 376 Molecular systems are the scaffolding on which natural selection builds. Comparing the tendency of different molecular mechanisms to generate tolerable and useful raw genetic variation is a challenging interdisciplinary problem. Modulation of gene expression is thought to be an important source of interspecific phenotypic divergence, and as new mechanisms are revealed, their potential roles must be considered. In this issue of Molecular Systems Biology , Tirosh et al (2010) use an interspecies hybrid approach to examine the genetic basis of variation in nucleosome arrangement and its potential to explain differences in gene expression. They find that most nucleosome occupancy and position differences are explained by changes in nearby DNA, and these differences prove to be surprisingly poor predictors of gene expression differences between species. If a gene differs in expression between two species, the causal genetic locus of variation could either be linked to the gene itself ( cis ) or located somewhere else ( trans ). With a few assumptions, whether the locus of change is in cis or trans can often be determined by examining gene expression in a hybrid of the two species (Wittkopp et al , 2004; Tirosh et al , 2009). In purely trans cases, the alleles of both species will be expressed identically in the hybrid, whereas alleles will …
International Alzheimer's Disease Research Portfolio (IADRP) aims to capture global Alzheimer's disease research funding

Abstract Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a recognized international public health crisis. There is an urgent need for public and private funding agencies around the world to coordinate funding strategies and leverage existing resources to enhance and expand support of AD research. To capture and compare their existing investments in AD research and research-related resources, major funding organizations are starting to utilize the Common Alzheimer's Disease Research Ontology (CADRO) to categorize their funding information. This information is captured in the International Alzheimer's Disease Research Portfolio (IADRP) for further analysis. As of January, 2014, over fifteen organizations from the US, Canada, Europe and Australia have contributed their information. The goal of the IADRP project is to enable funding organizations to assess the changing landscape of AD research and coordinate strategies, leverage resources, and avoid duplication of effort.
The Proteome of the Mouse Photoreceptor Sensory Cilium Complex

Primary cilia play critical roles in many aspects of biology. Specialized versions of primary cilia are involved in many aspects of sensation. The single photoreceptor sensory cilium (PSC) or outer segment elaborated by each rod and cone photoreceptor cell of the retina is a classic example. Mutations in genes that encode cilia components are common causes of disease, including retinal degenerations. The protein components of mammalian primary and sensory cilia have not been defined previously. Here we report a detailed proteomics analysis of the mouse PSC complex. The PSC complex comprises the outer segment and its cytoskeleton, including the axoneme, basal body, and ciliary rootlet, which extends into the inner segment of photoreceptor cells. The PSC complex proteome contains 1968 proteins represented by three or more unique peptides, including ∼1500 proteins not detected in cilia from lower organisms. This includes 105 hypothetical proteins and 60 proteins encoded by genes that map within the critical intervals for 23 inherited cilia-related disorders, increasing their priority as candidate genes. The PSC complex proteome also contains many cilia proteins not identified previously in photoreceptors, including 13 proteins produced by genes that harbor mutations that cause cilia disease and seven intraflagellar transport proteins. Analyses of PSC complexes from rootletin knock-out mice, which lack ciliary rootlets, confirmed that 1185 of the identified PSC complex proteins are derived from the outer segment. The mass spectrometry data, benchmarked by 15 well characterized outer segment proteins, were used to quantify the copy number of each protein in a mouse rod outer segment. These results reveal mammalian cilia to be several times more complex than the cilia of unicellular organisms and open novel avenues for studies of how cilia are built and maintained and how these processes are disrupted in human disease.
COPPER ALLOYS FROM THE ‘ENOT SHUNI CEMETERY AND THE ORIGINS OF BRONZE METALLURGY IN THE EB IV – MB II LEVANT

Tin bronze replaced arsenical copper as the preferred alloy in the Levant for reasons that have long been debated. Found almost exclusively in graves, these two types of copper alloys share nearly identical mechanical properties. The Bronze Age cemetery of ‘Enot Shuni has yielded the first metals ever analysed from an uninterrupted stratigraphic sequence in the Levant, spanning the earliest adoption of tin bronze from the Early Bronze Age (EB) IV through the Middle Bronze Age (MB) II (c. 2300–1530 bc). SEM–EDS analysis of these artefacts, combined with a compositional meta-database of all previously published EB IV – MB II alloys, reveals diachronic alloy progression as selected by populations of the Levant. It has long been qualitatively understood that bronze became the primary alloy by the MB II. These results verify this trend and quantify human demand, showing that tin importation increased by 103% and arsenic content decreased by 49% throughout these periods. This shift in technological choice is attributed to cultural reorientation from the Egyptian to Mesopotamian sphere of influence, as well as to tin's appreciable fuel efficiency over pure copper and arsenical copper in light of unprecedented timber shortages.
The Molecular Biology of Ependymomas

Intracranial ependymomas are the third most common primary brain tumor in the pediatric population. Although an anaplastic variant is recognized, numerous studies examining the prognostic implications of histological features, such as necrosis, endothelial proliferation and mitoses, have yielded contradictory results. In order to improve outcome prediction in affected patients and to refine therapeutic decision-making, there is a strong need for identifying relevant biological correlates of tumor behavior. The molecular biology of tumors is a rapidly expanding field and includes investigations into cytogenetics, oncogenes, growth factors, growth factor receptors, hormonal receptors, proliferation markers, apoptosis, cell cycle genes and cell adhesion molecules, as well as factors potentially related to therapeutic resistance, such as the multidrug resistance gene. The molecular biology of astrocytic tumors in adults has been the subject of many studies; however, relatively few studies have been focused on ependymomas. Herein we review potential oncological markers in ependymomas that have been identified to date and highlight the limitations of our current knowledge as a basis for defining areas for future investigation.
A 17q12 Allele Is Associated with Altered NK Cell Subsets and Function

NK cells play an important role in innate immunity. A previous genome-wide association study demonstrated an association between a 17q12 allele (rs9916629(C)) and lower frequency of CD3(-)CD56(+) NK cells in peripheral blood. We performed an analysis that not only replicates the original result of the genome-wide association study (p = 0.036) but also defines the specific cell subpopulations and functions that are modulated by the rs9916629 polymorphism in a cohort of 96 healthy adult subjects using targeted multiparameter flow cytometric profiling of NK cell phenotypes and functions. We found that rs9916629(C) is associated with alterations in specific NK cell subsets, including lower frequency of predominantly cytotoxic CD56(dim) NK cells (p = 0.011), higher frequency of predominantly regulatory CD56(bright) NK cells (p = 0.019), and a higher proportion of NK cells expressing the inhibitory NKG2A receptor (p = 0.0002). Functionally, rs9916629(C) is associated with decreased secretion of macrophage inflammatory protein-1β by NK cells in the context of Ab-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (p = 0.039) and increased degranulation in response to MHC class I-deficient B cells (p = 0.017). Transcriptional profiling of NK cells suggests that rs9916629 influences the expression of transcription factors such as TBX21, which has a role in NK cell differentiation, offering a possible mechanism for the phenotypic and functional differences between the different alleles. The rs9916629(C) allele therefore has a validated effect on the proportion of NK cells in peripheral blood and skews NK cells toward a specific phenotypic and functional profile, potentially influencing the impact that these innate immune cells have on infection and autoimmunity.
A clinical research pathway towards developing new insights into cardiomyopathy.

We were delighted to read Madias’ reply [1] to our comparative analysis [2], and we are excited that others see the value of making clinical predictions from a comparative life history study. We agree that further research on non-humans specifically aimed at identifying the mechanism(s) underlying capture myopathy would be valuable. The suggestions [1] to use echocardiography, electrocardiography, catecholamine and creatine phosphokinase measurements on non-humans would be very useful further identifying the precise links between capture myopathy in animals and takotsubo cardiomyopathy in humans. Furthermore, using life history traits in animal species most susceptible to capture myopathy to better understand individual vulnerability to takotsubo cardiomyopathy in humans is intriguing and worthy of further investigation. Ultimately, we see great promise in comparative studies that help put human pathologies into a life history perspective and encourage others to consider how life history variation and trajectories may influence human health.
Review of 'Fatal Indifference: The G8, Africa and Global Health'

In this review I summarize the main arguments offered in Fatal Indifference, noting the failure of the G8 to promote the health interests of all. I then offer an alternative paradigm of global governance for health that is rooted in Aristotle's political theory and Amartya Sen's capability approach. Finally, I discuss the implications this normative framework has for the G8 and the role the G8 can play moving forward.
Abstract PL03-01: Role of Stat3 in the tumor microenvironment

PL03-01 An essential role of immune cells as extrinsic tumor suppressor has been demonstrated. However, immune cells in the tumor microenvironment not only fail to mount an effective antitumor immune response, but also interact intimately with the transformed cells to promote oncogenesis actively. We and others have demonstrated that Stat3, a key oncogenic transcription factor constitutively activated in diverse cancer cells and important for tumor cell survival and invasion, is also activated in tumor stromal immune cells and potently immunosuppressive. Constitutively-activated Stat3 inhibits the expression mediators necessary for immune activation against tumor cells. Moreover, Stat3 activity promotes the production of immunosuppressive factors that activate Stat3 in diverse immune cell subsets. Among the immunosuppressive factors regulated by Stat3 are IL-6, IL-23 and IL-17, which are elevated in cancer, promote chronic inflammation, and cancer progression. Many of these immunosuppressive factors are also Stat3 activators. Our recent results further demonstrate that activated Stat3 in tumor myeloid cells, including macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, is important for mediating tumor angiogenesis. As such, Stat3 propagates several levels of crosstalk between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment, leading to tumor-induced immunosuppression, tumor survival and tumor angiogenesis. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2008;1(7 Suppl):PL03-01.
Effect of Crystalline Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) on Tolerance to Tuberculin

SummaryDaily injection of crystalline vitamin C increased the tolerance of tuberculous guinea pigs to repeated large doses of tuberculin.