cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ti/CVD-WSi/sub x//Blanket-W structure for fine contact filling application

The blanket W process for the fine contact size and high aspect ratio has been developed by using the CVD-WSi/sub x/ films as a diffusion barrier. It was found that the CVD-WSi/sub x/ film has good step coverage and effective barrier properties. Low contact resistance of 58 Omega was obtained for the n+ diffusion layer when a contact diameter is 0.6 mu m and the aspect ratio is 3. The Ti/CVD-WSi/sub x//blanket-W structure also has much lower junction leakage compared to the conventional Ti/TiN/blanket-W structure. >
Superinduction of IL-2 Gene Expression by Vomitoxin (Deoxynivalenol) Involves Increased mRNA Stability☆

Abstract To better understand molecular mechanisms by which the trichothecene vomitoxin (VT) superinduces cytokine gene expression, we studied the posttranscriptional effects of this mycotoxin on interleukin-2 (IL-2) gene expression in murine EL-4 thymoma cells stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and ionomycin (PMA + ION). Northern analysis revealed that doses of 50 to 500 ng/ml VT superinduced IL-2 mRNA expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner in a synchronous model where VT was added at onset of PMA + ION stimulation. In accordance with the mRNA levels, IL-2 production was significantly elevated in the presence of 50 to 250 ng/ml VT. Superinduction of IL-2 mRNA was also observed in a delayed synchronous model (VT added 20 hr after PMA + ION stimulation) and an asynchronous model (VT added 20 hr after PMA + ION stimulation and removal). To assess the effects of VT (500 ng/ml) on IL-2 mRNA half-life, three transcriptional inhibitors were used in the delayed synchronous model. Actinomycin D (ActD) had a pronounced stabilizing effect on IL-2 mRNA but not on mRNA for the housekeeping gene GAPDH. VT did not affect IL-2 mRNA levels in ActD-treated cells. Although 5,6-dichloro-β- d -ribofuranosyl-benzimidazole (DRB) also had a stabilizing effect on IL-2 mRNA, IL-2 mRNA half-life t 1/2 in VT-treated cells was three times that of control. In contrast, inclusion of cyclosporin A (CsA) into the cultures specifically arrested IL-2 transcription in EL-4 cells without any stabilizing effect. VT exposure in the presence of CsA markedly prolonged the half-life of IL-2 mRNA in a dose-dependent manner. The t 1/2 for IL-2 mRNA in the control culture was 2.1 hr, whereas t 1/2 was 3.1, 3.4, 4.2, and 10.5 hr in cultures containing 50, 100, 250, and 500 ng/ml VT, respectively. These results suggest that VT can superinduce IL-2 at both the mRNA and the protein level and that this superinduction can be explained, in part, by posttranscriptional mechanisms such as enhanced mRNA stability.
Decorin-PEI nanoconstruct attenuates equine corneal fibroblast differentiation

Objective To explore (i) the potential of polyethylenimine (PEI) nanoparticles as a vector for delivering genes into equine corneal fibroblasts (ECFs) using green fluorescent protein (GFP) marker gene, (ii) whether PEI nanoparticle-mediated decorin (DCN) gene therapy could be used to inhibit fibrosis in the equine cornea using an in vitro model. Procedure Polyethylenimine–DNA nanoparticles were prepared at nitrogen-to-phosphate (N-P) ratio of 15 by mixing 22 kDa linear PEI and a plasmid encoding either GFP or DCN. ECFs were generated from donor corneas as previously described. Initially, GFP was introduced into ECFs using PEI nanoparticles to confirm gene delivery, then DCN was introduced to evaluate for antifibrotic effects. GFP gene delivery was confirmed with real-time qPCR and ELISA. Changes in fibrosis after DCN therapy were quantified by measuring α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) mRNA and protein levels with qPCR, immunostaining, and immunoblotting. Cytotoxicity was determined by evaluating cell morphology, cellular viability, and TUNEL assay. Results Polyethylenimine-green fluorescent protein-treated cultures showed 2.2 × 104 GFP plasmid copies/μg of cellular DNA and 2.1 pg of GFP/100 μL of lysate. PEI–DCN delivery significantly attenuated TGFβ-induced transdifferentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts (2-fold decrease of αSMA mRNA; P = 0.05) and significant inhibition of αSMA (49 ± 14.2%; P < 0.001) in immunocytochemical staining and immunoblotting were found. Furthermore, PEI–DNA nanoparticle delivery did not alter cellular phenotype at 24 h and cellular viability was maintained. Conclusions Twenty-two kilo dalton Polyethylenimine nanoparticles are safe and effective for equine corneal gene therapy in vitro. PEI-mediated DCN gene delivery is effective at inhibiting TGFβ-mediated fibrosis in this model.
Recurrence Relations in the Rayleigh-Ritz Method

We report a novel approach for finding upper-bounds for energy levels in quantum systems. This method uses the Rayleigh-Ritz method in conjunction with an expansion series solution of the Schrodinger equation. In the traditional Rayleigh-Ritz method, a N × N matrix is diagonalized to find the N coefficients of a N -term series expansion solution. In a new approach, we directly substitute a series expansion into the Schrodinger equation, and find a recurrence relationship for the coefficients. Hence, the linear coefficients in the series expansion are not all independent. We use this dependency of the coefficients to show that it is possible to find all N coefficients by diagonilizing a matrix that finds only the independent coefficiencts. The dependent coefficients are then automatically found by the recursion relations. This approach significantly reduces the size of the matrix diagonalization. The resultant matrix equation is only R × R, where R is the number of independent series coefficients. By reducing the size of the matrix equation, this approach saves computational time and machine memory. We have applied this method to the one-dimensional quartic anharmonic oscillator and also the anomalous Zeeman effect in Hydrogen. The results are comparable to the results of the N × N diagonalization energies of the traditional Rayleigh-Ritz approach.
Anatomy of an embayment in an Ordovician epeiric sea, Upper Mississippi Valley, USA

The integration of stratigraphic, geochemical, and biostratigraphic data from Middle Ordovician carbonates and shales indicates that the North American epeiric sea was partitioned into shelf areas with distinct characteristics. The Upper Mississippi Valley part of the epeiric sea was appraised by using regionally traceable and geochemically “fingerprinted” K-bentonites, as well as detailed lithologic correlation. In the Midcontinent, the Decorah Formation records a time of high clastic sediment influx and abundant freshwater runoff from the Transcontinental Arch that created a salinity-stratified water column and led to episodic dysoxia. Later, relative flooding of the clastic source areas greatly reduced both the clastic sediment and freshwater runoff. As a result, the salinity stratification broke down, oxygenating the seafloor and permitting carbonates to form. Associated with this change, clarity of the water improved and the photic zone expanded, allowing seasonal blooms of Gloeocapsomorpha prisca to occur, resulting in increased burial of organic matter. The increase in G. prisca and total organic carbon coincided with, but lagged behind, a regional δ 13 C excursion. In addition, the timing of the initiation of the isotopic anomaly is different across the studied area, suggesting that local environmental conditions influenced the isotopic record. Data presented in this study support the partitioning of distinct areas within epeiric seas and the importance of this setting in storing inorganic and organic carbon and recording environmental and biological changes.
Quasi-Static Particle-In-Cell Simulation of the Plasma Wakefield Afterburner Concept

High-energy physics frontier is approaching the teraelectron-volt energy range for the study of the Higgs particle. To reach teraelectron-volt energy for charged particles, a high-gradient acceleration structure is desirable. Recent plasma wakefleld acceleration (PWFA) experiment has shown sustained acceleration gradient of 50 GeV/m in a meter-long plasma [1]. To study the relevant physics in an "afterburner" concept [2], i.e., an energy booster based on PWFA for the ILC-type parameters, we conduct 3-D particle-in-cell (PIC) simulation of the nonlinear beam-plasma interactions. A multiscale PIC model is developed using the quasi-static description of the interaction. We present images from the simulation, which illustrate the physical picture of an afterburner and the evolution of the accelerated beam.
The Critical Role of Anharmonicity in Aqueous Ionic Clusters Relevant to Nucleation

Calculating accurate free energies of aqueous ionic clusters is important in many areas of chemical physics. A common practice used in ab initio and other methods to determine the cluster free energy is to use a single energetically favorable configuration and then assume the harmonic approximation to the potential energy surface. In the present study, we compare and contrast harmonic free energies to those determined from anharmonic configurational sampling and how both compare to experiment. It is found that anharmonicity plays a critical role in determining accurate free energies for the clusters underlying ion-induced nucleation. Consequently, energies, geometries, and frequencies obtained by using a single or multiple configurations within the harmonic approximation lead to inaccurate aqueous cluster thermodynamics.
Frequency response and origin of the spin- 1 ∕ 2 photoluminescence-detected magnetic resonance in a π -conjugated polymer

We model the frequency responses of the photoinduced absorption (PA) and the spin-$1∕2$ photoluminescence-detected magnetic resonance (PLDMR) in the archetypal $\ensuremath{\pi}$-conjugated polymer poly[2-methoxy-5-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene]. We show that the frequency response of the resonance is consistent with a quenching model mediated by spin-dependent interactions between triplet excitons and polarons. Two polaron populations are identified: short-lived paired polarons that may recombine after spin-dependent collisions with triplet excitons, and long-lived unpaired polarons that are unaffected by microwave resonance. The large density of unpaired polarons dominates the frequency response of PA measurements, but does not influence the frequency response of the PLDMR, which instead probes the dynamics of triplet excitons and paired polarons.
The practice of fast conditional simulations through the LU decomposition of the covariance matrix

The LU-matrix approach to conditional simulations allows fast generation of large numbers of realizations for a given stochastic process. Simplicity, flexibility, and quality are its main advantages. Its implementation for cases where dense grids and/or large numbers of conditioning data cause computational problems is discussed. A case study is presented.
Steady state and transient transport in a-Si, Ge : H, F alloys

Abstract Steady state and transient transport data are presented for a series of a-Si, Ge : H, F alloys which indicate that, upon introduction of Ge (1) the conduction band tail appears to widen abruptly while the valence band tail is relatively unaffected (2) the number of deep defects increases exponentially with decreasing bandgap. The manner in which the deep defects affect transport indicates that they are negatively charged. A model based on compositional inhomogenieties is proposed to explain these results.
Air versus skin temperature servocontrol of infant incubators

Air temperature servocontrol was compared with skin temperature servocontrol and manual control as methods for regulating the heat output of a single-walled incubator (Air-Shields C-86) (1) when optimally used in the laboratory and (2) when operated by staff nurses in the nursery. The subjects were eight premature infants with birth weights betwen 1.07 and 1.54 kg. When the three methods were used to produce neutral air and skin temperatures during 2-hour measurement periods in the laboratory, there were no differences in mean air, skin, or rectal temperature, metabolic heat production, or body heat loss. There were also no differences among the three methods in mean air, skin, or rectal temperature when used by the nurses in the nursery for periods of 24 hours. When incubator wall temperature is stable, air temperature servocontrol can be used as effectively as skin temperature servocontrol to operate infant incubators.
Effect of daily injection of phenobarbital on ovulation in hamsters

Abstract Ovulation in hamsters normally occurs every fourth day (Day 1) and results from the release of pituitary gonadotropins (PG) into the circulation on the preceding day (Day 4) between 2:00 and 3:00 pm . A central mechanism, sensitive to certain drugs including phenobarbital, controls PG release. This release initiates estrus 2 hr later, and ovulation 11 hr later. The response of the central mechanism to daily exposure to phenobarbital was tested by injecting this drug before 2:00 pm daily for up to 50 days. Ovulatory cycles were followed by daily examination of vaginal washings. Daily injections between 1:00 and 2:00 pm initially blocked ovulation for 1–8 days but eventually were ineffective. Resistance to the daily injections was not overcome by raising the dose or delaying the injection on Day 4. After 4 days rest, injection at 1:30 pm on Day 4 was again effective. As expected, ovulation was never blocked when injections were given daily between 3:30 and 3:45 pm . However, when the last (50th) daily injection was given on Day 4 at 1:30 pm instead of between 3:30 and 3:45 pm , ovulation in all hamsters was blocked. Estrus began at about the normal time in resistant hamsters not given the injection due on Day 4. Resistance apparently results from an altered state of the central mechanism controlling PG release.
Optical Biopsy in Human Urologic Tissue Using Optical Coherence Tomography

AbstractOptical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a recently developed non-invasive technique for obtaining high resolution, cross-sectional images of human tissue. This work investigated the capability of OCT to differentiate the architectural morphology of urologic tissue with the long term aim of using OCT as an adjunct to endoscopic imaging and to improve the efficiency of interventional procedures such as transurethral prostatectomy (TURP). Urologic tissues were taken postmortem, dissected, and imaged using OCT. Microstructure was delineated in different urologic tissues, including the prostatic urethra, prostate, bladder, and ureter, with an axial resolution of 16 +/− 1 micro m., higher than any clinically available endoscopic intraluminal imaging technology. The ability of OCT to provide non-contact high resolution imaging of urologic tissue architectural morphology (i.e. optical biopsy), without the need for excisional biopsy, suggests the potential of using OCT to obtain information on tissue microst...
FOLATE COPOLYMER-MEDIATED TRANSFECTION OF CULTURED CELLS

Poly(ethylene glycol) of various sizes was used as a molecular spacer to separate the cell-targeting ligand, folate, from the surface of poly-l-lysine. The resulting ternary macromolecule (pLys-PEG...
Gene copy number: learning to count past two.

The number of copies of the gene encoding a ligand for an HIV co-receptor have been found to influence the susceptibility to HIV infection and AIDS progression. New studies dispute this conclusion. The studies are contested by the authors of the original findings, and highlight the inherent difficulties in accurately measuring gene copy numbers (pages 1110–1112, 1112–1115, 1115–1117 and 1117–1120).
Diffusion in Bikini lagoon

During the preliminary survey at Bikini, the state of turbulence in the lagoon was determined from three types of measurements: simultaneous measurements of surface current and wind speed, measurements of diurnal temperature fluctuations at various depths, and measurements of the rate of mixing of the oxygen-rich reef water with the body of the lagoon water. These measurements lead to reasonably consistent values for the coefficient of vertical diffusion. The coefficient of horizontal diffusion was estimated on the basis of past observations and of measurements of the lateral spread of dye markers. Its estimated value compares favorably to a value computed from the lateral spread of radioactive material deposited during the underwater atom-bomb burst.
Fundamental sex difference in human brain architecture

In PNAS, a report by Ingalhalikar et al. (1) has the makings of a landmark paper. Here I would like to briefly suggest why.
Aggregation of cationic dyes on acid polysaccharides. I. Spectrophotometric titration with acridine orange and other metachromatic dyes

Abstract The spectrophotometric titrations of various classes of acid polysaccharides (polycarboxylates, polysulfates, mucopolysaccharides and heparinoids) in dilute solution using four metachromatic dyes are described. Acridine orange was found to be applicable for quantitative analysis in all four groups of polymers. The equivalent weights obtained with this dye using about 25 μg of polymer were within 1–8% of the values obtained by other analytical methods. Methylene blue was found to be applicable for polymers where at least one negative site occurs regularly per sugar ring. Proflavine gave quantitative titrations with highly charged polymers and neutral red with polymers of relatively low charge density. Titration curves with methylene blue and proflavine also provide a spectrophometric means of distinguishing between acidic polymers with relatively homogeneous and non-homogeneous charge distributions.
Induced color changes in grapefruit and orange

Abstract The fruits of Marsh seedless grapefruit and navel orange do not normally accumulate lycopene. After treatment with 2-(4-chlorophenylthio)triethylamine hydrochloride (CPTA) both fruits accumulate large amounts of lycopene. CPTA appears to stimulate the lycopene pathway. It does not, however, appear to influence the terpenoid flavoring constituents present in the peel oil.
Case report: serial percutaneous cholangioscopy with laser ablation for the management of locally recurrent biliary intraductal papillary mucinous tumor

We present a case of serial cholangioscopic laser fulguration of a biliary recurrence of pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous tumor in a 76-year-old man. Through established percutaneous biliary drain tracts, the aseptic use of a standard 6.9 F ureteroscope and holmium laser fiber facilitated visual ablation within the biliary tree. Quarterly cholangioscopic laser ablation provided safe and effective local control without biliary infectious complications. This case appears to be the first treatment of recurrent intrabiliary intraductal papillary mucinous tumor by serial antegrade choledocoscopy and laser photocoagulation. Effective local control appears possible with minimal morbidity. Standard ureteroscopic equipment facilitates safe and efficient percutaneous antegrade choledocoscopy.
Stem and progenitor cell therapies: recent progress for spinal cord injury repair

Mechanical trauma to the spinal cord is often accompanied by irreversible tissue damage, limited endogenous repair and permanent loss of motor, sensory and autonomic function. The implantation of exogenous cells or the stimulation of endogenous cells, to repopulate and replace or to provide a conducive environment for repair, offers a promising therapeutic direction for overcoming the multitude of obstacles facing successful recovery from spinal cord injury. Although relatively new to the scene of cell based therapies for reparative medicine, stem cells and their progenitors have been labeled as the 'cell of the future' for revolutionizing the treatment of CNS injury and neurodegenerative disorders. The following review examines the different types of stem cells and their progenitors, their utility in experimental models of spinal cord injury and explores the outstanding issues that still need to be addressed before they move towards clinical implementation.
Plate scatter correction for improved performance in dual-energy imaging.

We have developed a method for correcting for the scatter produced by the computed radiography plates in single‐shot dual‐energy imaging. In our technique, which uses a series of four computed radiography plates (the middle two plates act as a filter), the back plate can have scatter fractions as high as 30% due to the scatter from the first three plates. We use the deconvolution method to correct for this scatter, as the scatter medium is uniform and isotropic with a constant air gap. The ratio of the modulation transfer function(MTF) of a standard computed radiography plate to that of a dual‐energy plate gives us the correction factor we need to scale the Fourier transforms of our images, thus compensating for the reduced response of the system due to scatter. We also investigated the effect of having an air gap between the back dual‐energy plate and the first three plates. Our measurements show that this degrades the signal‐to‐noise response of the back plate slightly at low spatial frequencies. We also used independent scatter fraction measurements to verify the validity of our MTF measurements. Applying the correction to a back plate image improves the fine detail contrast by approximately 30%.
Differential denaturation of Haemophilus influenzae DNA

Abstract The objective of this study is to determine whether differential denaturation of various genes can be observed. By treatments with heat or by titration with hydroxyl ions at subcritical levels, genetic markers from Haemophilus influenzae have been inactivated in the order of streptomycin resistance > erythromycin resistance > novobiocin resistance. The kinetics and extent of inactivation depends on whether a thermal or alkaline method is used. Results obtained with an assay system which allows the expression of single-stranded DNA are complementary to those testing the transforming activity of double-stranded DNA.
The Pacific–South American modes and their downstream effects

There are two pervasive modes of atmospheric variability in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) that influence circulation and rainfall anomalies over South America. They appear as leading empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs) of 500-hPa height or 200-hPa streamfunction anomalies and are found from intraseasonal to decadal time scales. Both patterns exhibit wave 3 hemispheric patterns in mid to high latitudes, and a well-defined wave train with large amplitude in the Pacific–South American (PSA) sector. Therefore, they are referred to as the PSA modes (PSA1 and PSA2). PSA1 is related to sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs) over the central and eastern Pacific at decadal scales, and it is the response to El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in the interannual band. The associated rainfall summer pattern shows rainfall deficits over northeastern Brazil and enhanced rainfall over southeastern South America similar to rainfall anomalies during ENSO. PSA2 is associated with the quasi-biennial component of ENSO, with a period of 22–28 months and the strongest connections occur during the austral spring. The associated rainfall pattern shows a dipole pattern with anomalies out of phase between the South Atlantic Convergence Zone (SACZ) extending from central South America into the Atlantic and the subtropical plains centred at 35°S. These two modes are also apparent in tropical intraseasonal oscillations for both summer and winter. Eastward propagation of enhanced convection from the Indian Ocean through the western Pacific to the central Pacific is accompanied by a wave train that appears to originate in the convective regions. The positive PSA1 pattern is associated with enhanced convection over the Pacific from 150°E to the date line. The convection pattern associated with PSA2 is in quadrature with that of PSA1. Both PSA modes are influenced by the Madden Julian Oscillation and influence rainfall over South America. Copyright © 2001 Royal Meteorological Society
Coordination of Steps in Single-nucleotide Base Excision Repair Mediated by Apurinic/Apyrimidinic Endonuclease 1 and DNA Polymerase β

The individual steps in single-nucleotide base excision repair (SN-BER) are coordinated to enable efficient repair without accumulation of cytotoxic DNA intermediates. The DNA transactions and various proteins involved in SN-BER of abasic sites are well known in mammalian systems. Yet, despite a wealth of information on SN-BER, the mechanism of step-by-step coordination is poorly understood. In this study we conducted experiments toward understanding step-by-step coordination during BER by comparing DNA binding specificities of two major human SN-BER enzymes, apurinic/aprymidinic endonuclease 1 (APE) and DNA polymerase β (Pol β). It is known that these enzymes do not form a stable complex in solution. For each enzyme, we found that DNA binding specificity appeared sufficient to explain the sequential processing of BER intermediates. In addition, however, we identified at higher enzyme concentrations a ternary complex of APE·Pol β·DNA that formed specifically at BER intermediates containing a 5′-deoxyribose phosphate group. Formation of this ternary complex was associated with slightly stronger Pol β gap-filling and much stronger 5′-deoxyribose phosphate lyase activities than was observed with the Pol β·DNA binary complex. These results indicate that step-by-step coordination in SN-BER can rely on DNA binding specificity inherent in APE and Pol β, although coordination also may be facilitated by APE·Pol β·DNA ternary complex formation with appropriate enzyme expression levels or enzyme recruitment to sites of repair.
Comparison of Driver Braking Responses in a High-Fidelity Simulator and on a Test Track:

The braking responses of drivers in the Iowa Driving Simulator (IDS) were compared with those of drivers on a test track. The braking profile of drivers was compared in last-minute braking situations in which drivers were instructed to brake "normally" or "hard." Although the motion and visual cues in the IDS are imperfect, the data agree in many respects. The general pattern of results is similar, with the initial speed and lead vehicle deceleration affecting drivers on the test track and in the simulator in a similar way. In several experimental conditions, the similarity of the responses went beyond the general pattern of response. The mean values were almost identical in several instances, and the values were frequently well within the confidence intervals. Although the simulator and test track drivers performed similarly, differences are apparent from the onset of braking, through the braking process, and in the outcome of the braking event. The instructions concerning normal and hard braking had little influence on the behavior of drivers in the simulator. Contributors to these differences include the limited visual and vestibular cues in the simulator and the extended practice on the test track.
Gendered production and consumption in rural Africa

Recent research underscores the continued importance of gender in rural Africa. Analysis of interactions within households is becoming more sophisticated and continues to reject the unitary model. There is some evidence of discriminatory treatment of girls relative to boys, although the magnitudes of differential investments in health and schooling are not large and choices seem quite responsive to changes in opportunity costs. Social norms proscribing and prescribing male and female economic behavior remain substantial, extending into many domains, especially land tenure. Gender constructions are constantly evolving, although there is little evidence of rapid, transformative change in rural areas.
Loss of mt+-derived zygotic chloropiast DNA is associated with a lethal allele in Chlamydomonas monoica

The Chlamydomonas monoica mutant allele mtl-1, is associated with the formation of nonviable zygospores following “self-mating” of the mutant strain. Furthermore, mtl-1 heterozygote populations show a 50% reduction in germination frequency and no transmission of a chloroplast antibiotic resistance marker carried by the mtl-1 parent. To determine whether the effects on zygospore viability and chloroplast gene transmission resulted from the direct involvement of the mtl-1 locus in the control of mt+-directed uniparental inheritance of chloroplast DNA (cpDNA), we have used the DNA-specific fluorochrome DAPI to follow the fate of cpDNA during the maturation of zygotes. Throughout the first few hours after the initial fusion of gametes, the young zygotes show DAPI-fluorescent nucleoids distributed symmetrically around the region of nuclear fusion, and presumably located within both of the parental chloroplasts. Wild-type and mtl-1 mutant zygotes show similar early staining patterns. As the zygotes age, the staining patterns become asymmetric for the wildtype population, with all of the visible cytoplasmic nucleoids restricted to one “side” of the zygote. In contrast, mtl-1 homozygotes appear to lose cytoplasmic nucleoids from both “sides” of the zygote simultaneously and within 24 h are apparently devoid of cpDNA. By introducing a mutation which arrests cell fusion (and prevents plastid fusion), we can show that (1) the asymmetric nucleoid distribution in wildtype zygotes results from the loss of nucleoids from one gamete in each mating event, and (2) the additional loss of cpDNA in mtl-1 homozygotes does not require contact between parental plastids (thus the nuclease responsible for cpDNA degradation is not sequestered within the chloroplast of one gamete). We propose that the mtl-1 mutant strain is defective for a process which normally protects cpDNA of mt+ origin.
Unequal group sizes in randomised trials: guarding against guessing

We cringe at the pervasive notion that a randomised trial needs to yield equal sample sizes in the comparison groups. Unfortunately, that conceptual misunderstanding can lead to bias by investigators who force equality, especially if by non-scientific means. In simple, unrestricted, randomised trials (analogous to repeated coin-tossing), the sizes of groups should indicate random variation. In other words, some discrepancy between the numbers in the comparison groups would be expected. The appeal of equal group sizes in a simple randomised controlled trial is cosmetic, not scientific. Moreover, other randomisation schemes, termed restricted randomisation, force equality by departing from simple randomisation. Forcing equal group sizes, however, potentially harms the unpredictability of treatment assignments, especially when using permuted-block randomisation in non-double-blinded trials. Diminished unpredictability can allow bias to creep into a trial. Overall, investigators underuse simple randomisation and overuse fixed-block randomisation. For non-double-blinded trials larger than 200 participants, investigators should use simple randomisation more often and accept moderate disparities in group sizes. Such unpredictability reflects the essence of randomness. We endorse the generation of mildly unequal group sizes and encourage an appreciation of such inequalities. For non-double-blinded randomised controlled trials with a sample size of less than 200 overall or within any principal stratum or subgroup, urn randomisation enhances unpredictability compared with blocking. A simpler alternative, our mixed randomisation approach, attains unpredictability within the context of the currently understood simple randomisation and permuted-block methods. Simple randomisation contributes the unpredictability whereas permuted-block randomisation contributes the balance, but avoids the perfect balance that can result in selection bias.
The Question of an Armenian Revolution and the Radicalization of the Committee of Union and Progress toward the Armenian Genocide

Hilmar Kaiser, one of the first German historians to work on the Armenian Genocide and one who has often written about it as a historical fact, is now trying to dilute that history. In his latest article, which consciously avoids use of the term genocide, Kaiser seeks to portray Mehmed Djemal Pasha, a member of the Young Turk triumvirate ruling the Ottoman Empire during World War I, as an individual resisting the genocidal policies of his co-conspirators within the Committee of Union and Progress. Kaiser claims to employ Ottoman documents to demonstrate that the initial intention of the Turkish government was to relocate the Ottoman Armenians for military reasons, although he admits that they posed no imminent danger to the state. Kaiser indicates that the first “relocations” of Armenians took place in areas controlled by Djemal and were initiated by him, then goes on to claim that even though the infamous death camp of Deir-es-Zor was located within his sphere of power, he, in reality, protected the Arme...
Existence of solutions for a host-parasite model

The sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax has several gill ectoparasites. Diplectanum aequans (Plathelminth, Monogenea) is one of these species. Under certain demographic conditions, this flat worm can trigger pathological problems, in particular in fish farms. The life cycle of the parasite is described and a model for the dynamics of its interaction with the fish is described and analyzed. The model consists of a coupled system of ordinary differential equations and one integro-differential equation.
Rediscovering the later version of Maslow's hierarchy of needs: Self-transcendence and opportunities for theory, research, and unification.

The conventional description of Abraham Maslow’s (1943, 1954) hierarchy of needs is inaccurate as a description of Maslow’s later thought. Maslow (1969a) amended his model, placing self-transcendence as a motivational step beyond self-actualization. Objections to this reinterpretation are considered. Possible reasons for the persistence of the conventional account are described. Recognizing self-transcendence as part of Maslow’s hierarchy has important consequences for theory and research: (a) a more comprehensive understanding of worldviews regarding the meaning of life; (b) broader understanding of the motivational roots of altruism, social progress, and wisdom; (c) a deeper understanding of religious violence; (d) integration of the psychology of religion and spirituality into the mainstream of psychology; and (e) a more multiculturally integrated approach to psychological theory.
What behavers do

Is schedule theory necessary? Or is Killeen (1994a) explaining clever laboratory contrivances that have no necessary relevance to understanding the role of behavior in life? We still await a psychological correspondence principle that can establish a sound basis for this elegant and essentially biological theory of reinforcement schedules.
The Role of Chemistry in the Development of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy of Cancer

A therapeutic method that selectively destroys malignant cells in the presence of normal cells is a highly valued goal of oncologists and the possible salvation of cancer patients afflicted with some incurable forms of the disease. Selective cell destruction is, in principle, possible with a binary therapeutic strategy based upon the neutron capture reaction observed with the 10B nucleus and a neutron of low kinetic energy (thermal neutron). This nuclear fission reaction produces both 4He and 7Li+ nuclei along with about 2.4 MeV of kinetic energy and weak γ-radiation. Since the energetic and cytotoxic product ions travel only about one cell diameter in tissue one may specify the cell type to be destroyed by placing innocent 10B nuclei on or within only the doomed cells. This article describes the current status of chemical research aimed at the eventual adoption of this therapeutic method (boron neutron capture therapy or BNCT). The multidisciplinary nature of this research effort involves chemistry, biology, nuclear physics, medicine, and related specialties. Methods devised for bringing 10B nuclei to tumor cells in therapeutic amounts are correlated with the structure of a generalized cell and the various cellular compartments available for boron localization. The synthesis methods employed for the creation of boron-containing biomolecules and drugs are presented along with representative data concerning their efficacy in tumor localization. The outlook for BNCT is especially bright at this time because of rapid developments in the fields of bioorganometallic chemistry, microbiology, immunology, and nuclear science, to name but a few. Very effective boron delivery vehicles have been demonstrated, and through the interaction of chemistry and biology these species are undergoing further improvement and evaluation of their suitability for BNCT.
Recent Advances in MR Hardware and Software

Tremendous advances have been made in abdominopelvic MR imaging, which continue to improve image quality, and make acquisitions faster and robust. We briefly discuss the role of non-Cartesian acquisition schemes as well as dual parallel radiofrequency (RF) transmit systems in the article to further improve image quality of the abdominal MR imaging. Furthermore, the use of hybrid PET/MR systems has the potential to synergistically combine MR imaging with PET acquisition, and the evolving role of hybrid PET/MR imaging is discussed.
Effects of Pulsed Electric Fields and Thermal Processing on the Stability of Bovine Immunoglobulin G (IgG) in Enriched Soymilk

ABSTRACT: To investigate influences of pulsed electric field (PEF) on bovine IgG immunoactivity, soymilk enriched with hyperimmunized dairy milk protein concentrate was subjected to PEF and thermal treatments. Thermal treatment at 78.8 °C for 120 s inactivated 5.1 logs in natural flora and resulted in 86% decrease in IgG activity PEF at 41 kV/cm for 54 μS inactivated 5.3 logs of natural flora and resulted in no significant change (P > 0.05) in bovine IgG activity. Specific antigen-binding activity of bovine IgG against Salmonella enteritidis showed parallel correlation with the measurement of IgG concentration. No further significant change in IgG immunoactivity was observed during a 10-wk storage at 4°C in PEF-, thermally-, or un-treated samples.
Minor orofacial abnormalities in an Eskimo population

Abstract The Eskimo appears to have a higher frequency of neonatal teeth and cleft uvula than does the Caucasian, and in this respect is similar to the Amerindian. The frequency of shovel-shaped incisors and torus mandibularis agrees with data from other studies carried out on Eskimos and Orientals. The frequency of torus palatinus was low in comparison to that in the Amerindians and other Eskimo tribes which have been studied and, in fact, was similar to that in Caucasians. The frequency of angular lip pits compared quite closely with that in Orientals and in Chippewa Indians.
Mechanism of the Isomerization of 1-Alkene during Iron-Catalyzed Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis

Abstract The deuterium/hydrogen exchange reaction was performed under iron-catalyzed Fischer–Tropsch reaction conditions using a mixture of deuterated octane, nonane, decane, tridecane, and pentadecane as the probes. The results indicated that deuterium/hydrogen exchange does not occur in alkanes under these conditions. Under the same reaction conditions, 1-octene-d16 was used as the probe to study the isomerization of 1-alkene. The 1-octene-d16 was reduced to deuterated octane, and isomerized to deuterated trans-2-octene and cis-2-octene with approximately equal amounts of the two isomers. No other internal deuterated octene and C7 products were obtained. The deuterium/hydrogen exchange reaction occurred in deuterated 1-octene as well as in the products formed from it. The maximum number of deuterium atoms that can be replaced by hydrogen is 5. There is no C8D16 isotopomer of 2-octenes. To account for these experimental facts, a mechanism was proposed for the isomerization of 1-alkene under iron-catalyzed Fischer–Tropsch reaction conditions.
Cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking, passive smoke exposure, and risk of pancreatic cancer: a population-based study in the San Francisco Bay Area

To examine the influence of cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking, cessation of cigarette smoking and passive smoke exposure on the risk of pancreatic cancer. Exposure data were collected during in-person interviews in a population-based case-control study of pancreatic cancer (N = 532 cases, N = 1701 controls) in the San Francisco Bay Area. Odds ratios (ORs) were adjusted for potential confounders. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of pancreatic cancer among current smokers was 1.9 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.4-2.7). A significant, positive trend in risk with increasing pack-years of smoking was observed (P-trend <0.0001). Compared with participants who continued to smoke, former smokers had no statistically significant elevation in risk of pancreatic cancer 10 years after smoking cessation, with risk reduced to that of never smokers regardless of prior smoking intensity. Both men and women experienced similar increased risk of pancreatic cancer with increasing smoking duration. Cigar and pipe smoking and exposure to passive smoke were not associated with pancreatic cancer. Cigarette smoking is associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Smokers who had quit for ≥10 years no longer experienced an increased risk. Future work will help to determine the effect of declining smoking rates on pancreatic cancer incidence.
New Autographic Machine for Testing Tensile Properties of Rubber

Abstract A description is given of a testing machine for the measurement of the tensile strength of materials having considerable deformation, such as rubber. A stress-strain recording device is described in which the strain recorded responds to the separation between a pair of independently movable pointers which may be made to follow the separation of two marks, spaced upon the sample before insertion in the machine. Mechanical means are also described to correct for variations in the test-piece cross section, and to produce equal chart displacements for equal angular deviations of the inclination balance.
Oxygen utilization and pH change in the ocean resulting from biological nitrate formation

Abstract The validity of R ichards' (1965) model of organic decomposition with respect to nitrification was investigated with pure cultures of marine nitrifying bacteria. It was found that the oxygen utilization is about 10% less than visualized in the model and that the unaccounted-for assimilation of bicarbonate by the nitrifying bacteria has a slight but probably measurable effect on the carbonate alkalinity. The end product of nitrification is nitric acid, which measurably affects the pH of sea water. The results of the microbiological experiments are used to evaluate the water column of an oceanographic station off Hawaii.
Development of Phonetically Balanced Phrase Lists Typical of Communication in Noisy Work Environments

The existing speech corpora are of limited value in assessing the combined effects of hearing loss, hearing protection, and noise on speech intelligibility in the work place. One reason for this is...
Influence of cortisol and dexamethasone on estrous behavior of estradiol-treated ovariectomized cows and heifers.

Abstract Two experiments were conducted with estradiol-treated ovariectomized cows and heifers to determine if cortisol and dexamethasone inhibit estrous behavior. In Experiment 1, eight ovariectomized Holstein cows were subjected to weekly hormonal treatments in a replicated 4×4 Latin square. Treatments consisted of 500 μ g estradiol benzoate and either 0, 40, 80, or 160mg cortisol. During the 48h after hormonal injection, 2-h periods of observation were alternated with 2-h periods of no observation. During each observation period, cows were observed continuously for 14 behavioral interactions that increase in frequency at estrus. Percentage of cows exhibiting estrus, interval from injection of hormones to the onset of estrus, duration of estrus, and total numbers of each behavioral interaction were similar for all treatments. In Experiment 2, 10 ovariectomized Holstein heifers were subjected to weekly hormonal treatments in a replicated 5×5 Latin square. Treatments consisted of 500 μ g estradiol benzoate and either 4mg dexamethasone, 0, 50, 100, or 200mg cortisol. The estradiol benzoate plus dexamethasone treatment tended to lower the percentage of cattle exhibiting estrus. Interval from injection to onset of estrus, duration of estrus, and total numbers of each behavioral interaction were similar for all treatments. These data indicate that cortisol given with estradiol did not inhibit estrus in ovariectomized cows and heifers, whereas dexamethasone tended to inhibit induced estrus.
Sensitivities When Modeling Electrically-Assisted Forming

Recent research by the authors has resulted in the conception of several methods of accounting for direct electrical effects during an Electrically-Assisted Manufacturing (EAM) process, where electricity is applied to a conductive workpiece to enhance its formability characteristics. The modeling and analysis strategy accounts for both mechanical effects and heat transfer effects due to the applied electrical power.This work presents a sensitivity analysis and explanation of several key material and process inputs during an Electrically-Assisted Forming (EAF) test on Stainless Steel 304 and Titanium Grades 2 and 5 specimens. First, the effect that the specific heat (Cp) value has on the model will be discussed and compared with another lightweight material. Second, the significance of all three heat transfer modes (conduction, convection, and radiation) will be noted, and any possible simplifications to the existing heat transfer model will be highlighted. Third, the general electroplastic effect coefficient (EEC) profile shape for the Stainless Steel 304 material will be compared to that of Titanium alloys. Fourth, a frequency analysis will be done on the data taken during the experiments, by way of a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), and the variation of frequency response with the electric input is studied.Overall, this work provides insight into several factors affecting a material’s EEC profile, and also compares resulting EEC profiles of various materials.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
On pigmentation of kidneys by psyllium and its effects on excretion

1. Rats and cats were fed on diets containing 4 and 19 per cent, respectively, of comminuted psyllium seed. Controls were fed on the same diet without psyllium. 2. Pigmentation of the kidneys in psyllium-fed animals was marked. 3. Urea clearance was not diminished in psyllium-fed rats. 4. Nine clinical cases, daily users of psyllium-agar flakes for from 2 to 7 years, exhibited no evidence of renal damage as tested by chemical and microscopic examination of the urine and by phenolsulfonephtha-lein excretion.
Being involved or just being informed: Communication preferences of seriously ill, older adults

Communication competence may play an important role in interactions between health care providers and patients. Because exactly what constitutes effective and appropriate communication in conversations with seriously ill, older adults is not clear, it is difficult to know haw such conversations can be improved. In this study we conducted face‐to‐face interviews with 142 randomly selected, older dialysis patients to determine if they believed it was appropriate to inform them of their medical condition, discuss treatment alternatives, and involve them in medical decision making. Results confirmed the expectation that most such individuals believe it is appropriate to be informed about their condition and options, but do not believe it is appropriate to involve them in medical decision making. Respondents who were older, less educated, and who had diminished cognitive capacity perceived involvement as particularly inappropriate. Results suggest that many seriously ill, older adults may have communication be...