cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estimated economic impact of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system on unintended pregnancy in active duty women.

ABSTRACT Unintended pregnancy is reportedly higher in active duty women; therefore, we sought to estimate the potential impact of the levonorgestrel-containing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) could have on unintended pregnancy in active duty women. A decision tree model with sensitivity analysis was used to estimate the number of unintentional pregnancies in active duty women which could be prevented. A secondary cost analysis was performed to analyze the direct cost savings to the U.S. Government. The total number of Armed Services members is estimated to be over 1.3 million, with an estimated 208,146 being women. Assuming an age-standardized unintended pregnancy rate of 78 per 1,000 women, 16,235 unintended pregnancies occur each year. Using a combined LNG-IUS failure and expulsion rate of 2.2%, a decrease of 794, 1588, and 3970 unintended pregnancies was estimated to occur with 5%, 10% and 25% usage, respectively. Annual cost savings from LNG-IUS use range from $3,387,107 to $47,352,295 with 5% to 25% in...
Effects of Advancing Gestation and Non-Caucasian Race on Ductus Arteriosus Gene Expression.

Objective To identify genes affected by advancing gestation and racial/ethnic origin in human ductus arteriosus (DA). Study design We collected 3 sets of DA tissue (n = 93, n = 89, n = 91; total = 273 fetuses) from second trimester pregnancies. We examined four genes, with DNA polymorphisms that distribute along racial lines, to identify "Caucasian" and "non-Caucasian" DA. We used real time polymerase chain reaction to measure RNA expression of 48 candidate genes involved in functional closure of the DA, and used multivariable regression analyses to examine the relationships between advancing gestation, "non-Caucasian" race, and gene expression. Results Mature gestation and non-Caucasian race are significant predictors for identifying infants who will close their patent DA when treated with indomethacin. Advancing gestation consistently altered gene expression in pathways involved with oxygen-induced constriction (eg, calcium-channels, potassium-channels, and endothelin signaling), contractile protein maturation, tissue remodeling, and prostaglandin and nitric oxide signaling in all 3 tissue sets. None of the pathways involved with oxygen-induced constriction appeared to be altered in "non-Caucasian" DA. Two genes, SLCO2A1 and NOS3 , (involved with prostaglandin reuptake/metabolism and nitric oxide production, respectively) were consistently decreased in "non-Caucasian" DA. Conclusions Prostaglandins and nitric oxide are the most important vasodilators opposing DA closure. Indomethacin inhibits prostaglandin production, but not nitric oxide production. Because decreased SLCO2A1 and NOS3 expression can lead to increased prostaglandin and decreased nitric oxide concentrations, we speculate that prostaglandin-mediated vasodilation may play a more dominant role in maintaining the "non-Caucasian" patent DA, making it more likely to close when inhibited by indomethacin.
In the Right Place at the Right Time: Is TMC1/2 the Transduction Channel for Hearing?

Recent papers suggest that TMC1 and TMC2 constitute the ion channels mediating hearing and balance. Kurima et al. (2015) now show these proteins are expressed in the right place and at the right time, bringing us closer to definitive identification.
Donor Requirements for Regulatory T Cell Suppression of Murine Graft-versus-Host Disease

Adoptive transfer of freshly isolated natural occurring CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells (Treg) prevents graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in several animal models and following hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) in clinical trials. Donor-derived Treg have been mainly used, as they share the same MHC with CD4(+) and CD8(+) conventional T cells (Tcon) that are primarily responsible for GVHD. Third party-derived Treg are a promising alternative for cellular therapy, as they can be prepared in advance, screened for pathogens and activity, and banked. We explored MHC disparities between Treg and Tcon in HCT to evaluate the impact of different Treg populations in GVHD prevention and survival. Third-party Treg and donor Treg are equally suppressive in ex vivo assays, whereas both donor and third-party but not host Treg protect from GVHD in allogeneic HCT, with donor Treg being the most effective. In an MHC minor mismatched transplantation model (C57BL/6 → BALB/b), donor and third-party Treg were equally effective in controlling GVHD. Furthermore, using an in vivo Treg depletion mouse model, we found that Treg exert their main suppressive activity in the first 2 d after transplantation. Third-party Treg survive for a shorter period of time after adoptive transfer, but despite the shorter survival, they control Tcon proliferation in the early phases of HCT. These studies provide relevant insights on the mechanisms of Treg-mediated protection from GVHD and support for the use of third-party Treg in clinical trials.
Validity of the rigid band approximation in the study of the thermopower of narrow band gap semiconductors

Theoretical studies of thermoelectric properties using ab initio electronic structure calculations help not only to understand existing experimental data but also to predict new materials which can be potentially good thermoelectrics. However, in these studies it is inevitable to employ some approximations. It is therefore important to verify their reliability. To this end, we have investigated the validity of the rigid band approximation (RBA), commonly used in calculating the thermopower ($S$) in doped (sometimes heavily) narrow band gap semiconductors. We have considered two important systems: half-Heusler HfCoSb and PbTe. We calculate band structures of pure and doped systems [using quasiperiodic approximation (QPA)] by employing the density-functional method. We then use Boltzmann transport theory to calculate the thermopower using both RBA and the band structure with QPA. We find that band structures do not change significantly when isovalent impurities are present excepting in specific cases. However, charged impurities (relevant to the doping case) providing carriers can change the host band structure appreciably. We find that impurities in general remove existing degeneracies which tend to reduce the RBA value of $\ensuremath{\mid}\phantom{\rule{-0.16em}{0ex}}S\phantom{\rule{-0.16em}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\mid}$. The reduction is significant in both HfCoSb and PbTe when charged defects are present.
New methodology and instrumentation for follicular unit extraction: lower follicle transection rates and expanded patient candidacy.

BACKGROUND Follicular unit extraction (FUE), as described in the literature for harvesting follicular units, is technically demanding, has limited patient candidacy, and can potentially result in high rates of follicle transection. Although FUE has potential advantages, such as faster surgical recovery, less postoperative pain, less noticeable scarring, and possible expansion of the donor area, the acceptance of the technique is limited by the problems noted above. The proposed methodology and instrumentation may allow widespread adoption of FUE. OBJECTIVE To present the SAFE (Surgically Advanced Follicular Extraction) System, a new methodology and novel instrumentation for FUE. This article presents the efficacy of this methodology and addresses patient candidacy. METHODS Twenty-two patients undergoing standard strip excision were enrolled in a pilot study to assess follicle transection rates using the SAFE System. Based on the success of the pilot study, an additional 37 patients receiving a total of 6,947 grafts were examined. Transection rates were recorded, and patients were examined for complications or adverse reactions. RESULTS The average follicle transection rate was 6.14%, with a range of 1.7% to 15%. The only adverse reaction was the occurrence of two buried grafts, resulting in inammatory subcutaneous cysts requiring excision. CONCLUSION It appears that the SAFE System provides the methodology and instrumentation to enhance current FUE techniques and expand patient candidacy. The transection rate of this method compares favorably with traditional microscope graft dissection. Physicians with a modicum of technical skills can use the technique, and there does not appear to be a significant adverse reaction rate.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Poly(ethylene oxide)/LiI Melts. 1. Structural and Conformational Properties

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of PEO/LiI melts at 363 and 450 K for the ether oxygen (EO)/LiI compositions 48:1, 15:1, and 5:1 have been performed. An explicit atom quantum-chemistry-based force field developed in our previous work was used. The Li+ cation environment from our MD simulations was found to be in good agreement with neutron diffraction isotopic substitution (NDIS) experiments performed on the EO/Li = 5:1 system. Cation complexation was found to be strongly temperature dependent. The Li+ cations have a tendency to be coordinated by six or more contiguous EO from a single chain at the lower temperature (363 K), but as temperature increases, coordination by shorter contiguous ether oxygen atom sequences becomes increasingly probable. The number of “free” ions was found to decrease with increasing temperature, consistent with results from Raman spectroscopy experiments on similar polymer electrolyte systems. The strong temperature dependence of the cation environment indicates the importan...
No evidence of population structure across three isolated subpopulations of Russula brevipes in an oak/pine woodland

Summary • Russula brevipes is common ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungus that is associated with several hosts across temperate forest ecosystems. A previous study has demonstrated that substructuring across large geographic distances (1500 km) occurs in the western USA. • To examine genetic structure over a more localized scale, basidiocarps of Russula brevipes from three subpopulations, separated by distances of 230–1090 m, were collected over two consecutive years in an oak/pine woodland. Microsatellite loci were used to test for population differentiation both among subpopulations and by year. • No significant population differentiation was detected between subpopulations (θST = 0.01) or between years (θST = 0.01). Most loci were consistent with a Hardy–Weinburg equilibrium and 82% of the genets between seasons from similar sampling localities constituted new genotypes. • These results indicate that R. brevipes constitutes a randomly mating population with no genetic differentiation between locations or across successive fruiting seasons.
Organizations to Watch

The need for an information-literate society is increasingly apparent to educators, employers, policy makers, and other leaders. Colleges and undergraduate libraries are well positioned to collaborate with a variety of constituencies on addressing this need. Academic librarians can benefit from an awareness of reports, conferences, and newsletters of organizations outside of libraries that recognize the importance of effectively finding, using, and communicating information. Past columns in this journal described the information literacy interests of the National Forum on Information Literacy (Weiner and Jackman 2010), Cable in the Classroom (Gallagher and Stewart 2011), and CVE, Inc. (Jones, Regan, and Mitra 2011). This column describes four other organizations. By examining the Websites and subscribing to the online updates for each, librarians can have current information about topics that relate to information literacy and incorporate it into their libraries’ information literacy plans.
Live donor nephrectomy

Donor nephrectomy was performed on 39 living related renal donors. The preoperative evaluation, surgical technique, and postoperative follow-up are presented. Major or minor complications developed in 23 per cent of the patients and included acute myocardial infarction, brachial plexus injury, acute glomerulonephritis, ileus, pneumonia, and urinary tract infection. All complications had resolved by six months postoperatively.
Simple relativistic quark-model analysis of flavored pseudoscalar mesons.

Using a simple relativistic quark model suggested by Dziembowski {ital et} {ital al}., we study the open flavored pseudoscalar meson, i.e., {ital Q{bar q}}, where {ital Q} is {ital s} or {ital c} and {ital q} is {ital u} or {ital d}. Our analysis, which is a straightforward extension of their previous treatment for the pion, focuses on the kaon to provide further tests of this approach. Our results support the utility of this model as the predictions for the kaon charge radius {l angle}{ital r}{sub {ital K}}{sup 2}{r angle}{sup 1/2}, the kaon form factor {ital F}{sub {ital K}}, and the decay constant {ital f}{sub {ital K}} compare favorably with experimental data.
Auroral‐plasma sheet electron anisotropy

Observations from 90 passes through the high-latitude extension of the Earth's plasma sheet made by the Hydra particle spectrometer on Polar show clear, repeatable structure in the electron pitch angle anisotropy. Two distinct regions are seen. The first region begins at the poleward edge of the plasma sheet and consists of alternating regions of field-aligned electron beams moving away from the ionosphere and loss-cone distributions indicative of electron acceleration and precipitation below the spacecraft. The second region begins equatorward of the first region and is characterized by a higher temperature loss-cone distribution superimposed on lower temperature, field aligned population. With decreasing latitude, the boundary in energy between these two populations in the second region decreases until only the trapped, loss-cone population remains. The two regions are identified as connecting to the discrete and diffuse auroral regions, respectively, and it is shown that the observed pitch angle anisotropies can be explained as arising from auroral processes below the spacecraft.
What is the purpose of launching the World Journal of Experimental Medicine

The first issue of the World Journal of Experimental Medicine (WJEM), whose preparatory work was initiated on May 26, 2011, will be published on December 20, 2011. The WJEM Editorial Board has now been established and consists of 104 distinguished experts from 30 countries. Our purpose of launching the WJEM is to publish peer-reviewed, high-quality articles via an open-access online publishing model, thereby acting as a platform for communication between peers and the wider public, and maximizing the benefits to editorial board members, authors and readers.
Remote sensing of atmospheric water vapor, liquid water, and wind speed at the ocean surface by passive microwave techniques from the Nimbus 5 satellite

The microwave brightness temperature measurements for Nimbus-5 electrically scanned microwave radiometer and Nimbus E microwave spectrometer are used to retrieve the atmospheric water vapor, liquid water and wind speed by a quasi-statistical retrieval technique. It is shown that the brightness temperature can be utilized to yield these parameters under various weather conditions. Observations at 19.35 GHz, 22.235 GHz and 31.4 GHz were input to the regression equations. The retrieved values of these parameters for portions of two Nimbus-5 orbits are presented. Then comparison between the retrieved parameters and the available observations on the total water vapor content and the surface wind speed are made. The estimated errors for retrieval are approximately 0.15 g/sq cm for water vapor content, 6.5 mg/sq cm for liquid water content and 6.6 m/sec for surface wind speed.
Genetic and environmental components of family history in type 2 diabetes

Family history of diabetes is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes (T2D), but whether this association derives from shared genetic or environmental factors is unclear. To address this question, we developed a statistical framework that models four components of variance, including known and unknown genetic and environmental factors, using a liability threshold model. Focusing on parental history, we simulated case–control studies with two first-degree relatives for each individual, assuming 50 % genetic similarity and a range of values of environmental similarity. By comparing the association of parental history with T2D in our simulations to case–control studies of T2D nested in the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study, we estimate that first-degree relatives have a correlation of 23 % (95 % CI 15–27 %) in their environmental contribution to T2D liability and that this shared environment is responsible for 32 % (95 % CI 24–36 %) of the association between parental history and T2D, with the remainder due to shared genetics. Estimates are robust to varying model parameter values and our framework can be extended to different definitions of family history. In conclusion, we find that the association between parental history and T2D derives from predominately genetic but also environmental effects.
NMR assignment of protein side chains using residue-correlated labeling and NOE spectra.

Abstract A new approach for the isotopic labeling of proteins is proposed that aims to facilitate side chain resonance assignments. Residue-correlated (RC) labeling is achieved by the expression of a protein on a medium containing a mixture of labeled, e.g., [U- 13 C, 15 N]amino acids, and NMR silent, [U- 2 H]amino acids. De novo synthesis of amino acids was suppressed by feedback inhibition by the amino acids in the growth medium and by the addition of β-chloro- l -alanine, a transaminase inhibitor. Incorporation of these amino acids into synthesized proteins results in a relative diminution of inter-residue NOE interactions and a relative enhancement of intra-residue NOEs. Comparison of the resulting NOE spectra with those obtained from a uniformly labeled sample allows identification of intra-residue NOE peaks. Thus, this approach provides direct information for sidechain assignments in the NOE spectra, which are subsequently used for structural analysis. We have demonstrated the feasibility of this strategy for the 143 amino acid nuclease inhibitor NuiA, both at 35 °C, corresponding to a rotational correlation time of 9.5 ns, and at 5 °C, corresponding to a rotational correlation time of 22 ns.
Kinematic hardening rule in single crystals

Abstract Based on the theories of Seeger's dislocation pile-up and Orowan's dispersion hardening, the hardening behavior of single crystals was found to obey Prager's kinematic hardening rule. Under single slip, yield surface moves along its normal while under multislip it moves along the direction of incremental stress. The theory developed is consistent with the Bauschinger effect; it is also in good agreement with the observations of Edwards and Washburn on the latent hardening of zinc, cadmium and copper crystals.
Technique for splanchnic transplantation

The combination of short-bowel syndrome and liver failure in infancy is inevitably fatal. We describe the details of a technique for simultaneous implantation of both the bowel and the liver that leaves the native bowel undisturbed and avoids entering the gastrointestinal tract. The conceptual basis on which this procedure was performed in two infants is presented.
Free carrier absorption and lattice vibrational modes in bulk ZnO

The electronic properties of semiconductors are highly dependent on carrier scattering mechanisms determined by crystalline structure, band structure, and defects in the material. Experimental characteristics of lattice vibrational modes and free carrier absorption in single-crystal ZnO samples obtained from different sources are presented in this work to provide a further understanding of carrier scattering processes pertaining to electronic properties. Infrared absorption measurements indicate strong absorption peaks due to a combination of optical and nonpolar phonon modes in the 9–13 µm spectral region. The Raman spectra obtained for these samples similarly reveal the presence of these phonon modes. Infrared absorption measurements also demonstrate free carrier absorption in the 3–9 µm spectral region for higher conductivity samples, where a λm dependence is observed with m=2.7–3, indicating both longitudinal optical phonon scattering and ionized impurity scattering. From these results, we show that infrared absorption can be used as a routine nondestructive technique to determine the material characteristics and quality of bulk ZnO.
Combustion of micron-aluminum and hydrogen peroxide propellants

Abstract In this paper we report the burning rate characteristics of hydrogen peroxide and micron-aluminum propellants. Theoretical calculations show that the sea level specific impulse of this simple binary mixture is comparable to standard composite propellant. In addition, the aluminum particle size, hydrogen peroxide concentration, and mixture ratio can be adjusted over a flat peak performance regime to attain specific thrust profiles and durations. We measured the burning rates in a windowed pressure vessel at pressures ranging from 7 to 14 MPa. Results show that mixture burning rates span from 0.5 to 4.5 cm/s at 7 MPa with power law burning rate pressure exponents ranging from 0.33 to 1.07. In this study, we focus a statistical analysis on the determination of the most influential variables affecting the burning rate and apply a thermal analysis to determine the combustion regimes of these mixtures. The statistical analysis provided a multivariate regression model for the logarithm of the burning rate with a correlation coefficient of 0.93. The model suggests aluminum diameter is the most important factor affecting the overall burning rate, and H 2 O 2 concentration as the most influential variable on the burning rate pressure dependence. The burning rate dependence on theoretical combustion temperature shows two distinct combustion regimes attributed to kinetic and diffusion controlled combustion. A simple thermal analysis confirms the experimental burning rate pressure dependence observed for these two regimes.
Influence of Ti and Ta doping on the irreversible strain limit of ternary Nb3Sn superconducting wires made by the restacked-rod process

Nb3Sn superconducting wires made by the restacked-rod process (RRP®) were found to have a dramatically improved resilience to axial tensile strain when alloyed with Ti as compared to Ta. Whereas Ta-alloyed Nb3Sn in RRP wires showed permanent damage to its current-carrying capacity (Ic) when tensioned beyond an intrinsic strain as small as 0.04%, Ti-doped Nb3Sn in RRP strands exhibits a remarkable reversibility up to a tensile strain of about 0.25%, conceivably making Ti-doped RRP wires more suitable for the high field magnets used in particle accelerators and nuclear magnetic resonance applications where mechanical forces are intense. A strain cycling experiment at room temperature caused a significant drop of Ic in Ta-alloyed wires, but induced an increase of Ic in the case of Ti-doped strands. Whereas either Ti or Ta doping yield a similar enhancement of the upper critical field of Nb3Sn, the much improved mechanical behavior of Ti-alloyed wires possibly makes Ti a better choice over Ta, at least for the RRP wire processing technique.
Identification of gas supersaturation sources in the upper Colorado River, USA

Atmospheric gas saturation levels were monitored throughout a 40-km reach of the upper Colorado River during the summer and fall of 1995 to identify possible sources of gas supersaturation in the river. Gas saturation data from seven fixed sampling points and 40 random sampling points were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple regression methods. The lowest total gas saturations (ΔP=−27) were found at the bottom release of Williams Fork Reservoir. The highest total gas saturations (ΔP=77) were found at the spillway release of Windy Gap Reservoir and the confluence of Willow Creek and the Colorado River. Spacial and temporal effects were determined to be significant contributors to gas saturation levels. Gas supersaturation in the study area originated from both man-made and natural sources. Water discharged from the spillway of Windy Gap Reservoir was found to be the main source of man-made supersaturation, while photosynthetic activity of aquatic plants was determined to be the natural source of supersaturation in the study area. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Finding the Size of a Finite Population

There are fixed sample size methods for estimating the unknown size N of a finite population by tagging the elements of a first sample and then counting the number of tagged elements of a second sample [1, p. 43]. Less well known are sequential methods [2], which have the advantage that the total sample size automatically adjusts itself to the unknown N to assure a desired accuracy of the estimate. All these methods only provide estimates for which the relative error is likely to be small. Suppose, however, that we want PN (estimate = N)⪴α =.99, say, no matter what the value N = 1, 2, • • •. How can this be done?
Corn Quality Patterns in U.S. Markets

Data on U.S. corn quality were summarized by geographic region and market location. There were significant variations in composition (protein, oil, starch) within and across regions. Intraregional composition differences are economically significant at the first handler level, but one uncontrolled commingling will eliminate any usable differences. Physical quality, as measured by U.S. grade factors, did not show regional patterns.
Two systems of non-symbolic numerical cognition.

Studies of human adults, infants, and non-human animals demonstrate that non-symbolic numerical cognition is supported by at least two distinct cognitive systems: a ‘parallel individuation system’ that encodes the numerical identity of individual items and an ‘approximate number system’ that encodes the approximate numerical magnitude, or numerosity, of a set. The exact nature of these systems, however, have been debated for over a hundred years. Some argue that the non-symbolic representation of small numbers ( 4) is carried out solely by the approximate number system. Others argue that all numbers are represented by the approximate number system. This debate has been fueled largely by some studies showing dissociations in processing and other studies showing similar processing of small and large numbers. Recent work has addressed this debate by showing that the two systems are present and distinct from early infancy, persist despite the acquisition of a symbolic number system, activate distinct cortical networks, and engage differentially based attentional constraints. Based on the recent discoveries, I provide a hypothesis that may explain the puzzling findings and makes testable predictions as to when each system will be engaged. In particular, when items are presented under conditions that allow selection of individuals, they will be represented as distinct mental items through parallel individuation and not as a numerical magnitude. In contrast, when items are presented outside attentional limits (e.g. too many, too close together, under high attentional load), they will be represented as a single mental numerical magnitude and not as distinct mental items. These predictions provide a basis on which researchers can further investigate the role of each system in the development of uniquely human numerical thought.
Pulse propagation in nonlinear optical fiber lines that employ phase-sensitive parametric amplifiers

Recently we proposed using periodically spaced, phase-sensitive optical parametric amplifiers to balance linear loss in a nonlinear fiber-optic communication line [ Opt. Lett.18, 803 ( 1993)]. We present a detailed analysis of pulse propagation in such a fiber line. Our analysis and numerical simulations show that the length scale over which the pulse evolution occurs is significantly increased beyond a soliton period. This is because of the attenuation of phase variations across the pulse’s profile by the amplifiers. Analytical evidence is presented that indicates that stable pulse evolution occurs on length scales much longer than the soliton period. This is confirmed through extensive numerical simulation, and the region of stable pulse propagation is found. The average evolution of such pulses is governed by a fourth-order nonlinear diffusion equation, which describes the exponential decay of arbitrary initial pulses into stable, steady-state, solitonlike pulses.
Lethality of injected peach Western X-disease virus to its leafhopper vector

Abstract Western X-disease virus (WXV), when injected into the leafhopper Colladonus montanus (Van Duzee) by means of infectious hemolymph or dilutions of whole insect extracts, caused premature death. Mortality due to virus occurred earlier in injected insects than in those acquiring virus by feeding. Moreover, the position of survival curves with respect to the time scale proved to be a function of the concentration of virus injected. Factors other than virus, such as contaminating bacteria and wounding, were also found to cause premature death of leafhoppers after injection. Deaths due to virus did not begin to appear until about 35 days after injection, and continued until about 70–80 days. Deaths due to WXV were independent of deaths resulting from bacteria. Bacterial contaminants could be eliminated by repeated centrifugation or by means of antibiotics.
Metabolomics analysis of soy hydrolysates for the identification of productivity markers of mammalian cells for manufacturing therapeutic proteins

Soy hydrolysates are widely used as a nutrient supplement in mammalian cell culture for the production of recombinant proteins. The batch-to-batch variability of a soy hydrolysate often leads to productivity differences. This report describes our metabolomics platform, which includes a battery of LC-MS/MS modes of operation, and advanced data analysis software for automated data processing. The platform was successfully used for screening productivity markers in soy hydrolysates during the production of two therapeutic antibodies in two Chinese hamster ovary cell lines. A total of 123 soy hydrolysate batches were analyzed, from which 62 batches were used in the production runs of cell line #1 and 12 batches were used in the production runs of cell line #2. For cell line #1, out of 19 amino acids, 106 other metabolites and 4,131 peptides identified in the soy hydrolysate batches being used, several nucleosides and short hydrophobic peptides showed negative correlation with antibody titer, while ornithine, citrulline and several amino acids and organic acids correlated positively with titer. For cell line #2, only ornithine and citrulline showed strong positive correlation. When ornithine was spiked into the culture media, both cell lines demonstrated accelerated cell growth, indicating ornithine as a root cause of the performance difference. It is proposed that better soy hydrolysate performance resulted from better bacterial fermentation during the hydrolysate production. A few selected markers were used to predict the performance of other soy hydrolysate batches for cell line #1. The predicted titers agreed with the experimental values with good accuracy.
Selective Oxidation in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Using Clean Oxidants

We have systematically investigated heterogeneous catalytic oxidation of different substrates in supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2). Three types of catalysts, a metal complex {cis-[Fe(dmp)2(H2O)2] (CF3SO3)2} (dmp = 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline), 0.5% platinum γ-alumina, and 0.5% palladium γ-alumina, were used at a pressure of 200 bar, at temperatures from 60 to 150 °C, and for 3−18 h for partial oxidation of organic substrates. The metal−oxo catalyst used gave as high as 3.9% conversion of cycloxene to its oxides and epoxides, with the major products being the ketone and alcohol. The oxidation of cyclohexene strongly depended on the concentration of oxygen, whereas length of reaction (3−18 h) and temperature (60−150 °C) were shown to be less significant on the conversion and selectivity of the reaction. Oxidation of cyclohexene over Pd and Pt/Al2O3 catalysts resulted in a mixture of dehydrogenation and oxygenated products.
Subtypes in alzheimer's disease and the impact of excess disability: Recent findings

This article reviews selected recent findings which contribute to the delineation of the early onset, extrapyramidal symptom, and Lewy body subtypes. These examples underscore certain potential advances and pitfalls in research which attempts to define subtypes. A subtype of Alzheimer's disease is defined by the presence of a specific etiology, a set of clinical signs, a prognosis, and a response to treatment. Cognitive decline can also occur on the basis of factors not intrinsic to a particular subtype. The term ‘excess disability’ refers to a patient's functioning which declines more rapidly than is expected on the basis of cerebral pathology alone. This article discusses some relevant studies which show how the concept of ‘excess disability’ contributes to understanding the total disability of the Alzheimer's patient.
Variational calculation of the on- and off-shell T matrix

The use of a Schwinger-type variational principle for the evaluation of the two-body $T$ matrix $T({p}^{\ensuremath{'}},p,E)$ is shown to be an efficient and accurate method both on and off the energy shell. Using standard trial functions all of the matrix elements for the Reid soft-core interaction can be determined by simple recursion relations, and the evaluation of the $T$ matrix is reduced to solving a set of simultaneous equations.
Occurrence and biosynthesis of asperphenamate in solid cultures of Penicillium brevicompactum

Abstract The ester of N-benzoylphenylalanine and N-benzoylphenylalaninol, asperphenamate, was isolated from solid cultures of Penicillium brevicompactum. Isotope from l -[U-14C] phenylalanine was well incorporated into both benzoyl groups and into the phenylalanine and phenylalaninol moieties. Isotope from [U-14C]benzoic acid was also well incorporated into asperphenamate.
Magnetism and magnetoresistance in magnetic multilayers

Abstract The discovery of “giant” magnetoresistance (GMR) has greatly stimulated the study of arrays of thin magnetic films. This informal review tries to describe recent discoveries and puzzles in the magnetic and transport properties of metallic arrays of ferromagnetic films.
Symbiotic emergence of metazoans.

IT has been assumed that differentiation during embryonic development is based on the regulation of gene activities. The differentiation of each cell, then, results from the activity of certain genes and the inactivity of others. Practically all theories of embryonic development rely on this assumption (see Markert1). It is evident that different genes are active in different cells (that is to say, haemoglobin genes in erythroblasts, thyroglobulin genes in thyroid cells, myosin genes in muscle cells). But the precise programming of cells containing thousands of genes still fails to explain the regular embryonic development, which depends not only on cellular differentiation but on precise cell divisions, cell and tissue movements, cell interactions and even cell death. Moreover, embryonic development is flexible enough to respond to injury, from the formation of complete identical twins to the fusion of two organs to form a single one.
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis hypersensitivity to naloxone in opioid dependence: A case of naloxone-induced withdrawal

A case of opioid withdrawal precipitated in an opioid-dependent person by low plasma levels of naloxone is presented. In this patient, changes were observed in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis that preceded the clinical symptoms and adrenergic signs of withdrawal. Plasma naloxone levels were strongly correlated with plasma cortisol levels (P < .0001, R2 = .73, r = .85). In addition, these neuroendocrine changes persisted after adrenergic changes and clinical symptoms had been ameliorated by administration of a short-acting opioid agonist. It is suggested that the HPA axis is a more sensitive indicator of opioid withdrawal than the adrenergic system.
Superconditioning from a reduced reinforcer.

In four autoshaping experiments pigeons received conditioned inhibition training of the form A++, AB–, where ++ is a strong reinforcer and – is nonreinforcement. Subsequent AB+ training, in which + is a moderate reinforcer, resulted in enhanced conditioning of A, relative to an A stimulus receiving no treatment, one receiving A+ treatment, and one receiving A++ treatment. This enhancement of conditioning to Aconstitutes a demonstration of “superconditioning”. The presence of the inhibitory B sufficiently enhanced the reinforcing power of the moderate reinforcer (+) that it was able to further increase the excitation controlled by A. This occurred even though A had previously been paired with a stronger reinforcer (++). Superconditioning was also observed when A and B were extinguished prior to treatment with + or were originally neutral stimuli followed by + in the presence of an inhibitor trained elsewhere.
Application of the simple charge-discharge metabolic model to transient behavior of experimental marine microcosms

Abstract A simple charge-discharge circuit model conventionally used to simulate steady-state system metabolism was extended to simulate metabolic responses to perturbations in energy flow rates in balanced benthic marine laboratory microcosms. Empirical determination of the metabolic transfer coefficients using data collected with diel metabolic experiments indicated that these transfer coefficients are a property of the system and not of the environmental conditions to which the system had been acclimated. Used to simulate steady-state metabolic conditions based on various levels of light-energy input and temperature, the model gave values for integrated production and respiration that closely approximated experimental determinations. Moreover, the diel metabolic patterns produced were similar to those observed in the laboratory systems. The model's dynamic behavior upon loss of energy input was similar to that observed in the experimental systems for several days, but diverged after that period. Daytime respiration values were similar in magnitude but different in overall pattern from those observed in the microcosms. Simulations of a series of energy flow rate perturbation experiments produced response curves which were virtually indentical to final steady-state metabolic levels observed in the experiments, and which exhibited initial metabolic transients of the same pattern that had occurred in the laboratory. However, the transient response of the model was of greater amplitude and more highly damped.
Actions of specific adenosine receptor A1 and A2 agonists and antagonists in recovery of phrenic motor output following upper cervical spinal cord injury in adult rats

Summary 1. Previous studies from our laboratory have established that a latent respiratory motor pathway can be activated to restore function to a hemidiaphragm paralysed by upper cervical (C2) spinal cord hemisection during a reflex known as the ‘crossed phrenic phenomenon’. In addition, theophylline, a general adenosine A1 and A2 receptor antagonist, can activate the latent pathway by acting centrally through antagonism at adenosine receptors. 2. The present study was designed to assess the relative contributions of adenosine A1 and A2 receptors in inducing functional recovery in our model of spinal cord injury. Specific adenosine A1 and A2 agonists and antagonists were used in an electrophysiological study. 3. Our results demonstrate that, in hemisected rats, systemic administration of the adenosine A1 receptor-specific antagonist 1,3-dipropyl-8-cyclopentylxanthine (DPCPX) restores, in a dose-dependent manner, phrenic nerve respiratory related output that is lost following hemisection. Furthermore, DPCPX augments respiratory activity in non-injured animals. The A2 receptor agonist CGS-21680 mediates its effects by predominantly acting on peripheral rather than central nervous system (CNS) receptors. CGS-21680 modulates respiratory related phrenic nerve activity in non-injured animals by enhancing tonic activity, but does not induce recovery of phrenic nerve activity in hemisected animals in the majority of cases. When CGS-21680 was administered prior to DPCPX in hemisected rats, the magnitude of recovery of respiratory function was significantly greater than that elicited by DPCPX alone. However, when the A2 receptor agonist was administered after DPCPX, the magnitude of recovery was virtually unchanged, whereas activity in the right phrenic nerve was significantly enhanced. The A1 receptor agonist N6-cyclohexyladenosine depressed respiratory activity in non-injured, as well as hemisected, rats. The A2 receptor antagonist 3,7-dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine did not affect respiratory activity. 4. We conclude that while antagonism at central adenosine A1 receptors mediates functional restitution in hemisected animals, activation of A2 receptors located outside of the CNS subserves the A1 receptor-mediated respiratory recovery.
Numerical simulation of the effect of particle spatial distribution and strength on tensile behavior of particle reinforced composites

Abstract The spatial distribution of reinforcement particles significantly influences the tensile behavior of particle reinforced composites. In this study, we have modeled the effect of particle clustering in a model metal matrix composite, SiC particle reinforced Al. The SiC particles were modeled as purely elastic, while the Al matrix was modeled as elastic–plastic. To study the effect of particle distribution, the SiC particles were represented as two-dimensional circular particles of uniform diameter. Three particle distributions – ordered, random, and clustered were evaluated. The degree of particle clustering was quantified using the coefficient of variance of the mean near-neighbor distance method. The evolution of damage by particle fracture was included in the model. The cases for (a) all SiC particles having uniform fracture strength and (b) variable fracture strength were considered (using a Weibull distribution in strength). The effects of particle distribution were elucidated and are discussed.
Dynamic inferior stabilizers of the shoulder joint.

Abstract Background. The glenohumeral joint is soft-tissue balanced. However, few studies have focused on its dynamic inferior stabilizers. Objective. The objective of this study was to investigate the dynamic contributions of five shoulder muscles to inferior stability of the glenohumeral articulation in four joint positions. Methods. The anterior, lateral and posterior deltoid, supraspinatus, short head of biceps, coracobrachialis and long head of triceps from ten cadaveric shoulders were tested in 0°, 30°, 60° and 90° of glenohumeral abduction. A constant inferior force of 15 N was applied to the humerus. The tendons were loaded sequentially in proportion to their respective muscle's cross-sectional area. Translations of the humeral head on the glenoid were recorded with a 3-Space™ tracking device. Results. The lateral deltoid (8.2 mm, SD 4.8 mm) was potentially most effective in superior translation of the humeral head followed by the posterior deltoid (7.7 mm, SD 4.8 mm). The coracobrachialis and short head of biceps had considerable capability to translate the humeral head superiorly (2.8 mm, SD 1.3 mm) while the supraspinatus showed the weakest effects (1.3 mm, SD 0.5 mm). Relevance Strengthening exercises of the deltoid may be useful in the treatment of inferior glenohumeral instability, while the supraspinatus seems to be less important for inferior glenohumeral stability than previously assumed.
Design of exploration and minerals-data-collection programs in developing areas

Abstract This paper considers the practical problem of applying economic analysis to designing minerals exploration and data collection strategies for developing countries. Formal decision rules for the design of government exploration and minerals-data-collection programs are derived by using a minerals-industry planning model that has been extended to include an exploration function. Rules derived are applicable to centrally planned minerals industries as well as market-oriented minerals sectors. They pertain to the spatial allocation of exploration effort and to the allocation of activities between government and private concerns for market-oriented economies. Programs characterized by uniform expenditures, uniform information coverage across regions, or uniform-density grid drilling progrmas are shown to be inferior to the strategy derived. Moreover, for market-oriented economies, the economically optimal mix in exploration activities between private and government data collection would require that only private firms assess local sites and that government agencies carry out regional surveys.
Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills in Elliptical Excision Repair of Senior Dermatology Residents: A Multirater, Blinded Study of Operating Room Video Recordings

Importance Surgical training in dermatology residencies has increased, and there is growing interest in measuring resident competence more precisely. This study applies the use of the objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) to measure competence in dermatologic surgery. Objective To evaluate the utility of OSATS as a tool for measuring surgery skills during dermatology residency training. Design, Setting, and Participants Multirater, blinded review and ratings of taped video recordings of elliptical excisions performed by senior dermatology residents applying for procedural or Mohs surgery fellowships. Main Outcomes and Measures Ratings on a specific OSATS measure, including global rating scale and task checklist. Results Twelve videos, representing approximately 20% of fellowship applicants during 2009-2010, were rated. Raters agreed on 272 of 288 subscore ratings (94.4%). Mean global ratings were 4 or 5 for all categories, except time and motion, which had a rating of 3. Task checklist ratings had a mean of 14.5 and a mode of 16 (perfect score), with eversion least often performed successfully. No association was found between a resident's scores and the number of surgical rotation months or between scores and the number of Mohs surgeons at the home institution. Conclusions and Relevance Senior dermatology residents preparing for surgery fellowships are highly skilled in performing elliptical excisions and bilayered repairs. The OSATS appears useful and reliable for the evaluation of dermatologic surgery skills.
H∞ fuzzy adaptive tracking control design for nonlinear systems with output delays

Abstract In this study, we develop fuzzy adaptive tracking control via two-layer fuzzy observers, variable structure systems (VSS), and H ∞ control algorithm for nonlinear systems with plant uncertainties, output delays, and external disturbances. The Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy dynamic model with adaptation capability is used to approximate the nonlinear system. When the system states are not available, the states estimated from two-layer fuzzy observers combined with VSS are used to develop the fuzzy adaptive controller. In the first layer, the output delays are partitioned into m + 1 equal time intervals to construct the same number of fuzzy observers. The output delayed states in each time interval are used as the premise variables in the IF–THEN rules. The second layer of the fuzzy observers uses output delayed error states as its linguistic variables and it is defuzzified from the first layer. Next, we develop a fuzzy adaptive controller to overcome the nonlinearities, output delayed states, and external disturbances such that H ∞ tracking performance is achieved. The Lyapunov criterion and linear matrix inequalities are used to derive the controller. In the present study, our previous method is extended to handle a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with output delays and external disturbances, which is achieved using robust VSS and H ∞ control techniques. A magnetic levitation system and inverted pendulum system are used as simulation examples to illustrate the validity and confirm the performance of our proposed scheme.