cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 6611: Functional characterization of a novel gene in the antigen presentation pathway allows specific immunotherapeutic targeting of glioblastoma cancer stem cells

Glioblastoma is the most prevalent and aggressive primary brain tumor in adults, and conventional treatment strategies have made minimal progress in prolonging overall survival. Cancer stem cells are critical for tumor initiation, growth, and maintenance, and are able to co-opt complex host mechanisms to evade immune recognition. Immune checkpoint inhibition has proven revolutionary for the treatment of several types of solid tumors, but has largely failed in attempts to improve outcomes in glioblastoma. Developing a deeper understanding of the functional immunomodulatory role of genes unique to glioma stem cells (GSCs) may help to elucidate this enigma, and inform more specific immunotherapeutic targeting. To better understand the ability of GSCs to promote immunosuppression and self-tolerance in the tumor niche, we interrogated RNA-seq data from GSCs and differentiated glioma cells (DGCs) and identified a novel gene in the antigen presentation pathway (APP). In vitro targeting of this gene increased sensitivity to CD8+ T cell killing and reduced expression of other T-cell inhibitory ligands in GSCs alone, decreasing tumor-mediated immunosuppression. Compared to DGCs, GSCs were found to be key promoters of immune self-tolerance and evasion, with unaltered GSCs exhibiting minimal peptide binding to MHC Class I and, therefore, decreased antigen presentation. Specific targeting of the identified APP gene led to a reversal of this interaction, with increased binding capacity and, correspondingly, tumor antigen recognition. In vivo administration of a specific APP gene targeting agent in human GSC xenograft mice displayed decreased tumor burden and a striking prolongation of overall survival compared to both controls and mice treated with known immune checkpoint inhibitors. High expression of the APP gene is associated with poor clinical prognosis, supporting the clinical relevance of this discovery. Thus, novel targeting of the antigen-presenting pathway may provide a therapeutic vulnerability unique to glioblastoma cancer stem cells. Citation Format: Reilly L. Kidwell, Xiqing Li, Jeremy N. Rich. Functional characterization of a novel gene in the antigen presentation pathway allows specific immunotherapeutic targeting of glioblastoma cancer stem cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 6611.
Effects of Caffeine on Intervertebral Disc Cell Viability in a Whole Organ Culture Model

Study Design:Controlled laboratory study.Objective:To investigate the impact of exposure to physiologically relevant caffeine concentrations on intervertebral disc (IVD) cell viability and extracel...
Adapted Shared Storybook Reading: A Study of Its Application for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders in Home Settings:

This study investigated the use of an adapted shared reading protocol with three children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in home settings. Using a multiple baseline across participants design, this investigation replicated and extended a previous investigation by Browder et al. to children with ASD and home settings. In addition, this study was to investigate whether individual components of the intervention package contributed to its overall effectiveness. Finally, the extent to which the participating children generalized their ability to engage in adapted shared reading with the researcher to shared reading with their parents was explored. The results of the investigation indicate that the children with ASD demonstrated improvements in engagement in shared reading and these improvements generalized to shared reading with the children’s parents.
Transcriptomic and rRNA:rDNA signatures of environmental vs. enteric Enterococcus faecalis isolates under oligotrophic freshwater conditions

ABSTRACT The use of enterococci as a fecal indicator bacterial group for public health risk assessment has been brought into question by recent studies showing that “naturalized” populations of E. faecalis exist in the extraenteric environment in a viable but not culturable (VBNC) state. The extent to which these naturalized or VBNC E. faecalis can confound water quality monitoring is unclear. To determine if strains isolated from different habitats display different survival strategies and responses, we compared the decay patterns of three E. faecalis isolates from the natural environment (environmental strains) against three human gut isolates (enteric strains) in laboratory mesocosms that simulate an oligotrophic, aerobic freshwater environment. Our results showed similar overall decay rates between enteric and environmental isolates based on viable plate and qPCR counts. However, the enteric isolates exhibited a spike in rRNA:rDNA ratios between days 1 and 3 of the mesocosm incubations that was not observed in environmental isolates, which could indicate a different stress response. Nevertheless, there was no strong evidence of differential expression of genes thought to be related to habitat adaptation in the accompanying mesocosm metatranscriptomes when compared between environmental and enteric isolates. Overall, our results provide novel information on how rRNA levels may vary over different metabolic states (i.e., alive vs. VBNC) for this important indicator bacteria. We also observed some evidence for habitat adaptation in E. faecalis; however, this adaptation may not be substantial or consistent enough for integration in water quality monitoring. IMPORTANCE Enterococci are commonly used worldwide to monitor environmental fecal contamination and public health risk for waterborne diseases. However, some species within this group can enter an inactive, viable but not culturable (VBNC) state that make it difficult to accurately quantify during routine monitoring. Furthermore, lower-risk, environmental enterococci strains may also confound water quality estimates. We developed an rRNA:rDNA viability assay for E. faecalis (a predominant species within this fecal group) and tested it against both enteric and environmental isolates in freshwater mesocosms to assess whether this approach can serve as a more sensitive water quality monitoring tool. We were unable to reliably distinguish the different isolate types using this assay under the conditions tested here; thus, environmental strains should continue to be counted during routine water monitoring. However, this assay could be useful for distinguishing more recent (i.e., higher risk) fecal pollution because rRNA levels significantly decreased after one week in all isolates.
Robbing Peter to Pay Paul: Competition for Radiogenic Breaks During Rejoining Diminishes Curvature in the Dose Response for Simple Chromosome Exchanges

The large majority of chromosome damage produced by ionizing radiations takes the form of exchange aberrations. For simple exchanges between two chromosomes, multi-fluor fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH) studies confirm that the dose response to X rays or gamma rays is quasilinear with dose. This result is in seeming conflict with generalized theories of radiation action that depend on the interaction of lesions as the source of curvature in dose-response relationships. A qualitative explanation for such “linearization” had been previously proposed but lacked quantitative support. The essence of this explanation is that during the rejoining of radiogenic chromosome breaks, competition for breaks (CFB) between different aberration types often results in formation of complex exchange aberrations at the expense of simple reciprocal exchange events. This process becomes more likely at high radiation doses, where the number of contemporaneous breaks is high and complex exchanges involving multiple breaks become possible. Here we provide mathematical support for this CFB concept under the assumption that the mean and variance for exchange complexity increase with radiation dose.
Regional anesthesia and pain medicine.

To the Editor We read with special interest the recent article by Gessner et al titled, ‘Automated text messaging follow-up for patients who receive peripheral nerve blocks,’[1][1] and we are grateful for the authors’ innovative contributions. Utilizing an automated (‘bots’) mobile text-
Checkpoint blockade: the end of the beginning.

The early 2000s saw the first trials of checkpoint inhibitors in humans. Here, Jedd Wolchok discusses the first clinical results.
Survival Outcomes Among Pancreatic Cancer Patients at Kenyatta National Hospital.

Mortality from pancreatic cancer has risen fast in the past two decades in East Africa, including Kenya. However, there was a paucity of conclusive data about the survival of pancreatic cancer patients in the study setting. Hence, this study aimed to assess the survival outcomes of pancreatic cancer patients at Kenyatta National Hospital. A hospital-based retrospective cohort analysis was used to evaluate the survival outcomes among pancreatic cancer patients treated in the study setting from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2019. A total of 64 eligible pancreatic cancer patients were included in the study. In the pre-designed data abstraction tool, the data were collected by reviewing the medical records of the patients. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 22 software. The mean survival time was estimated using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Cox regression analysis was employed to estimate the predictors of mortality among pancreatic cancer patients. The mean age of the study participants was 60.38 ± 12.61 years. Most of the patients had adenocarcinoma (96.9%) and were diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease. The overall mean and median survival estimate for pancreatic cancer was 48.7 ± 9.7 and 39.0 ± 23.9 months, respectively. The present study showed that the overall survival rate of pancreatic cancer patients was 79.7%. The mortality rate of pancreatic cancer in the present study was 20%. The overall mean survival estimate for pancreatic cancer was 48.7 ± 9.7 months, and the majority had disease progression in the last follow-up period.
The Role of Intolerance of Uncertainty in Social Anxiety Subtypes

Objectives Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is thought to underlie several internalizing disorders; however, it has only begun to be explored within social anxiety (SA). This study extends previous findings by examining IU's relation to performance and interaction SA subtypes and by accounting for obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Methods A total of 472 undergraduates completed measures of IU, SA, perfectionism, worry, obsessions/compulsions, and fear of negative evaluation (FNE). Results IU and obsessions/compulsions predicted performance SA beyond FNE. IU predicted interaction SA beyond FNE. Inhibitory anxiety IU contributed to both SA types but contributed more to performance SA. Prospective anxiety IU was negatively related to performance SA and unrelated to interaction SA, though a trend emerged. Contrasts between those high in one SA type, both, or neither revealed IU was highest when both types were present. Conclusions Inhibitory IU plays a significant role in both SA subtypes and may play a slightly greater role in performance SA.
Construction of YAC Libraries with Large Inserts

The yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) cloning system makes it possible to clone large pieces of genomic DNA into yeast. Libraries have been made containing clones with inserts in the megabase-pair range. The basic protocol in this unit describes preparation of YAC vectors and transformation of ligated DNA into yeast spheroplasts. A support protocol describes titration of Lyticase to make spheroplasts. Additional support protocols detail two methods for partial digestion of genomic DNA: EcoRI restriction endonuclease-EcoRI methylase competition and the partial digestion of genomic DNA by use of limiting amounts of Mg2+, respectively.
Physical and chemical studies on ceruloplasmin. VI. Preparation of human ceruloplasmin crystals.

Abstract Large, tetragonal crystals of human ceruloplasmin were prepared, and the partial specific volume and copper content of the protein were determined. With this information the crystals were suitable for x-ray diffraction studies.
A Decision Feedback Reverse Link Receiver Implementation for IS-95 CDMA Communications

An implementation of a reverse link receiver for IS-95 CDMA (Code-Division Multiple-Access) communications that applies decision feedback to the decoding of the received signal is presented. Decision feedback is used in order to improve BER performance by making use of additional information that conventional receiver designs generally ignore. Qualitative analysis and computer simulation of the hardware components of the proposed implementation shows that it can be built as a single integrated circuit using present day technology. The design presented here does not include the RF front-end of the receiver, does not consider the effects of multipath and fading on system performance, and assumes perfect power control.
RNA Gene Prediction

The rapid growth of sequenced genomes and the discovery of numerous novel RNA species has made the development of methods for the computational identification of genes encoding functional RNA a high priority. Recent developments of algorithms for RNA gene prediction are based on diverse criteria, including location of promoters and terminators, sequence conservation among related genomes, RNA base-pairing and nucleotide composition. Keywords: functional RNA; gene finding; genomics; bioinformatics; machine learning
Outcomes after conversion in the Veterans Affairs randomized on versus off bypass trial.

Background The Randomized On versus Off Bypass trial reported conversion of 12.4% (n = 137) off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) patients and 3.6% (n = 40) on-pump cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) patients. This paper explored outcomes after conversions. Methods Elective and urgent CABG patients (n = 2,203) at 18 sites were studied. Randomization within 54 participating surgeons occurred preoperatively, after which conversion occurred if clinically indicated. Conversion reasons and outcomes were captured prospectively with additional details retrospectively extracted from patient records by a core clinical group. Results Conversion rates varied considerably across participating surgeons. Converted OPCAB patients had more right coronary disease and coronary targets less than 1.5 mm. Conversions were elective in 49.3% of cases, urgent in 27.2%, or emergent in 23.5%. Elective conversions were mainly for poor exposure-intramyocardial vessel (35.8%). Urgent and emergent conversions were usually for hemodynamic instability (89.2% and 75.0%, respectively). Compared with CPB and OPCAB patients, OPCAB-converted patients had more 30-day complications and deaths (composite outcome rate of 5.7% and 5.5% vs 17.5% respectively, p p = 0.05). One-year composite outcome rate (death, nonfatal myocardial infarction or revascularization) in OPCAB-converted patients was worse than in CPB patients (13.5% vs 7.1%, p = 0.02), but similar to OPCAB-nonconverted (9.4%). Conclusions The OPCAB patients requiring conversion had worse 30-day and 1-year outcomes. The OPCAB patients with right coronary artery disease or small targets were more often converted. The 30-day composite outcome trended worst for emergent OPCAB conversions.
A Robust Precoder Design Based on Channel Statistics for MIMO-OFDM Systems with Insufficient Cyclic Prefix

In this paper, we study the precoder design problem for MIMO-OFDM systems with insufficient cyclic prefix (CP) using statistical channel state information (CSI) at the transmitter. In our previously proposed channel independent precoding scheme, an interference nulling based precoding structure is studied, which can assist to either cancel interblock interference (IBI) or separate the subspace occupied by IBI from the subspace used for information symbols. In this work, we consider a robust precoder design which combines statistical CSI at the transmitter and the interference nulling based precoding structure to gain a better performance compared to the channel independent precoding scheme. Statistical channel state information at the transmitter in the form of covariance matrix of the MIMO-OFDM channel matrix is utilized to perform the robust precoding. The design criterion for the precoder design is to minimize the maximum average mean squared error (MSE) of all the transmitted symbols during one OFDM block interval. To achieve this goal, the precoder design exhibits a similar procedure to the optimized design framework for MIMO transceivers for either perfect or statistical CSI with no interference effect, but with a distinct equivalent channel. Since the average MSEs are set equal using this precoder, the BER performance is better than our previously proposed channel independent precoder and the simulation validates this result.
Locking Buttons Increase Fatigue Life of Locking Plates in a Segmental Bone Defect Model

Background Durability of plate fixation is important in delayed union. Although locking plates result in stronger constructs, it is not known if locking affects the fatigue life of a plate. Two locking screws on either side of the nonunion could decrease working length and increase strain in the plate. However, the reinforcing effect of the locking head on the plate may compensate, so that it is unclear whether locking reduces fatigue life.
Cutting to the chase [microwave car stopper]

This article presents a microwave device that could spell the end of hair-raising car chases. A prototype has been commissioned by law enforcement agencies and police forces in the United States and Britain have ordered tests of the new system. This car zapper is designed to fit in the trunk of a police car with a directive antenna mounted on the roof. At the touch of a button, a police officer can direct a jolt of microwave energy at a speeding car. The electromagnetic impulse induces high transient currents in the wires leading to the microprocessor of the suspect's car and disables the ignition.
Expression of Memory (CD45RO + ) and Naive (CD45RA + ) T-cells in Newborn Infants with Sepsis. † 1334

Expression of Memory (CD45RO + ) and Naive (CD45RA + ) T-cells in Newborn Infants with Sepsis. † 1334
Comparison of Competitive Radioimmunoassays and Two-Site Sandwich Assays for the Measurement and Interpretation of Plasma Ghrelin Levels

Context: Ghrelin, an endogenous ligand for the GH secretagogue receptor, is an orexigenic peptide hormone produced primarily by the stomach. Recent studies suggest significant differences in the specificity of currently available ghrelin assays. Objective: The aim of the study was to compare four ghrelin assays (two commercially available and two developed by our group) of differing specificity, each used on the same set of more than 800 plasma samples from a human study. Design: Thirteen volunteers were sampled every 20 min for 6 h after consumption of one of three isocaloric drinks consisting of either 80% fat, 80% carbohydrate, or 80% protein. The samples were assayed by RIA for total and active ghrelin, as well as by sandwich assays for acyl and des-acyl ghrelin. The ghrelin profiles for each individual were smoothed using a statistical algorithm to lessen the effects of pulsatility and noise. Results: The sandwich assays for acyl and des-acyl ghrelin yielded ghrelin values that were lower than those from the corresponding RIAs. The ghrelin profiles after nutrient ingestion were similar, yet key differences among the four assays were apparent; in particular, percentage changes were significantly greater in the sandwich assays. Conclusions: The lower levels and greater relative changes in ghrelin values reported by the sandwich assays are consistent with greater assay specificity. When applied to the nutrient study, the sandwich assays were better able to distinguish the different responses to different nutrients than were the RIAs.
Building, measuring, and profiting from customer loyalty

Achieving customer loyalty is a primary marketing goal, but building loyalty and reaping its rewards remain ongoing challenges. Theory suggests that loyalty comprises attitudes and purchase behaviors that benefit one seller over competitors. Yet researchers examining loyalty adopt widely varying conceptual and operational approaches. The present investigation examines the consequences of this heterogeneity by empirically mapping current conceptual approaches using an item-level coding of extant loyalty research, then testing how operational and study-specific characteristics moderate the strategy → loyalty → performance process through meta-analytic techniques. The results clarify dissimilarities in loyalty building strategies, how loyalty differentially affects performance and word of mouth, and the consequences of study-specific characteristics. Prescriptive advice based on 163 studies of customer loyalty addresses three seemingly simple but very critical questions: What is customer loyalty? How is it measured? and What actually matters when it comes to customer loyalty?
Dopamine receptor supersensitivity

Dopamine (DA) receptor supersensitivity refers to the phenomenon of an enhanced physiological, behavioral or biochemical response to a DA agonist. Literature related to ontogenetic aspects of this process was reviewed. Neonatal 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) destruction of rat brain DA neurons produces overt sensitization to D1 agonist-induced oral activity, overt sensitization of some D2 agonist-induced stereotyped behaviors and latent sensitization of D1 agonist-induced locomotor and some stereotyped behaviors. This last process is unmasked by repeated treatments with D1 (homologous "priming") or D2 (heterologous "priming") agonists. A serotonin (5-HT) neurotoxin (5,7-dihydroxytryptamine) and 5-HT2C receptor antagonist (mianserin) attenuate some enhanced behavioral effects of D1 agonists, indicating that 5-HT neurochemical systems influence D1 receptor sensitization. Unlike the relative absence of change in brain D1 receptor number, DA D2 receptor proliferation accompanies D2 sensitization in neonatal 6-OHDA-lesioned rats. Robust D2 receptor supersensitization can also be induced in intact rats by repeated treatments in ontogeny with the D2 agonist quinpirole. In these rats quinpirole treatments produce vertical jumping at 3-5 wk after birth and subsequent enhanced quinpirole-induced antinociception and yawning. The latter is thought to represent D3 receptor sensitization. Except for enhanced D1 agonist-induced expression of c-fos, there are no changes in the receptor or receptor-mediated processes which account for receptor sensitization. Adaptive mechanisms by multiple "in series" neurons with different neurotransmitters may account for the phenomenon known as receptor supersensitivity.
A condition for absolute continuity of infinitely divisible distribution functions

Throughout this paper the symbols r.v., d.f., ch.f., and i.d. will stand, respectively, for “random variable”, “distribution function”, “characteristic function”, and “infinitely divisible”.
Mitochondrial development in the flight muscles of the moth, Heliothis virescens

Abstract Mitochondriogenesis is described for the developing flight muscles of Heliothis virescens . Incorporation of 14 C-leucine into mitochondrial protein in vivo reached a maximum at 6 days after the larval-pupal ecdysis and before increased enzymatic activity. Alpha-glycerophosphate oxidase activity peaked two days prior to adult ecdysis whereas succinoxidase activity reached a maximum coincident with adult ecdysis. Succinate-cytochrome c reductase and cytochrome c oxidase activities developed synchronously with succin-oxidase. Pharate adults resulting from ecdysterone-treated, dauer pupae showed an 80 per cent reduction in cytochrome c oxidase activity, but partial development of the cytochrome reductase activity. These findings suggest cytochrome development is under endocrine regulation.
Southern high latitude dune fields on Mars: Morphology, aeolian inactivity, and climate change

In a study area spanning the martian surface poleward of 50° S., 1190 dune fields have been identified, mapped, and categorized based on dune field morphology. Dune fields in the study area span ∼ 116 400 km2, leading to a global dune field coverage estimate of ∼904 000 km2, far less than that found on Earth. Based on distinct morphological features, the dune fields were grouped into six different classes that vary in interpreted aeolian activity level from potentially active to relatively inactive and eroding. The six dune field classes occur in specific latitude zones, with a sequence of reduced activity and degradation progressing poleward. In particular, the first signs of stabilization appear at ∼ 60° S., which broadly corresponds to the edge of high concentrations of water-equivalent hydrogen content (observed by the Neutron Spectrometer) that have been interpreted as ground ice. This near-surface ground ice likely acts to reduce sand availability in the present climate state on Mars, stabilizing high latitude dunes and allowing erosional processes to change their morphology. As a result, climatic changes in the content of near-surface ground ice are likely to influence the level of dune activity. Spatial variation of dune field classes with longitude is significant, suggesting that local conditions play a major role in determining dune field activity level. Dune fields on the south polar layered terrain, for example, appear either potentially active or inactive, indicating that at least two generations of dune building have occurred on this surface. Many dune fields show signs of degradation mixed with crisp-brinked dunes, also suggesting that more than one generation of dune building has occurred since they originally formed. Dune fields superposed on early and late Amazonian surfaces provide potential upper age limits of ∼ 100 My on the south polar layered deposits and ∼ 3 Ga elsewhere at high latitudes. No craters are present on any identifiable dune fields, which can provide a lower age limit through crater counting: assuming all relatively stabilized dune fields represent a single noncontiguous surface of uniform age, their estimated crater retention age is <∼10 000 years. An average-sized uncratered dune field (94 km2) has a crater retention age <∼8 My. This apparent youth suggests that present-day climate conditions are responsible for the observed degradation and reduced level of aeolian activity. A lack of observed transport pathways and the absence of large dune fields in the largest basins (Hellas and Argyre Planitiae) are consistent with the previously proposed idea that dune sands are not typically transported far from their source regions on Mars.
Obsessive compulsive disorder in adolescence: an epidemiological study.

Abstract In the second part of a two-stage epidemiologic study of obsessive-compulsive symptoms in nonreferred adolescents, clinicians interviewed high school students selected from screening measures administered in the first stage. Of the 356 students interviewed, 93 scored above clinically derived thresholds on the 20-item Leyton Obsessional Inventory-Child Version, 188 scored below the clinical threshold but positively on at least one other screen for psychopathology, and 75 scored negatively on all screens. The Leyton inventory had a sensitivity of 75%, a specificity of 84%, and a predictive value of 18% as a screen for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The OCD cases identified had characteristics similar to those of clinical cases, except for the nonpredominance of males. There was a high frequency of associated disorders, but only four of the 18 cases had been under professional care. OCD is much more common during adolescence than has been previously thought; it is both underdiagnosed and undertreated.
A method for relaxing tolerance requirements in RC filters

In an adjustable assembly, the problem is to reduce overall adjustments from many high-precision adjustments to a few high-precision and larger number of low-precision adjustments. The present application is the high-volume manufacture of RC active filters. The Lopresti method for filter tuning is used. The author presents a method for mathematically selecting the minimum number of resistors that need to be reserved for fine tuning. In thin-film hybrid ICs serpentine trimmed resistors are useful for area savings. In this case, the resistor track is created in a rectangular block of film material by a laser. But these must be trimmed twice to protect against aging degradation. All resistors are first trimmed to 90% of their nominal design values. The substrate is then baked to stabilize the resistors. The bake operation will usually raise all resistors by a value from 0 to 2%. The circuit is then fine tuned using laser trimming to raise all resistors to the optimum value calculated by the Lopresti tuning algorithm. >
A Microprocessor Tester for the Treat Upgrade Reactor Trip System

The upgrading of the Transient Reactor Test (TREAT) Facility at ANL-Idaho has been designed to provide additional experimental capabilities for the study of core disruptive accident (CDA) phenomena. In addition, a programmable Automated Reactor Control System (ARCS) will permit high-power transients up to 11,000 MW having a controlled reactor period of from 15 to 0.1 sec. These modifications to the core neutronics will improve simulation of LMFBR accident conditions. Finally, a sophisticated, multiply-redundant safety system, the Reactor Trip System (RTS), will provide safe operation for both steady state and transient production operating modes. To insure that this complex safety system is functioning properly, a Dedicated Microprocessor Tester (DMT) has been implemented to perform a thorough checkout of the RTS prior to all TREAT operations.
A longitudinal examination of the link between parent alcohol problems and youth drinking: The moderating roles of parent and child gender

The unique and interactive effects of paternal and maternal alcohol problems on the drinking behavior of adolescent girls and boys were investigated. A prospective design was employed to examine changes in youth drinking behavior over a 3-year period in a community-based sample of 695 families. Results revealed that, as maternal alcohol problems increased, the likelihood of adolescent alcohol use increased. Paternal alcohol problems were associated with an increased likelihood of alcohol use for girls only. Findings point to the need for future research to investigate both maternal and paternal alcohol problems in community samples and with a sample size large enough to examine both parent and adolescent gender. Implications for preventive and interventive efforts are considered.
mmLib Python toolkit for manipulating annotated structural models of biological macromolecules

The Python Macromolecular Library (mmLib) is a software toolkit and library of routines for the analysis and manipulation of macromolecular structural models, implemented in the Python programming language. It is accessed via a layered object-oriented application programming interface, and provides a range of useful software components for parsing mmCIF, PDB and MTZ files, a library of atomic elements and monomers, an object-oriented data structure describing biological macromolecules, and an OpenGL molecular viewer. The mmLib data model is designed to provide easy access to the various levels of detail needed to implement high-level application programs for macromolecular crystallography, NMR, modeling and visualization. We describe here the establishment of mmLib as a collaborative open-source code base, and the use of mmLib to implement several simple illustrative application programs.
Nucleon-Nucleus Optical-Model Parameters, A > 40 , E 50 MeV

Proton-nucleus and neutron-nucleus standard optical-model parameters are given that represent, quite well, much of the elastic scattering data in the range $Ag40$, $El50$ MeV. These parameters were determined by fitting simultaneously a large sample of the available proton data, and independently, a large sample of the available neutron data. Explicit energy- and isospin-dependent terms were included and their coefficients obtained directly from the data analysis. The results are shown to be consistent with the range and strength of the central and isospin components of the two-body interaction.
A Letter from the Editor

Ifirst want to express my gratitude to my predecessor Gerard Cachon. Gerard has done a truly remarkable job for M&SOM and provided extraordinary service to our community. He hands over a journal that is in superb health. His legacy entails broadening the journal to support emerging research areas of operations management (OM), including behavioral OM and empirical OM, a revitalization of the editorial board, now populated with a set of outstanding young scholars, and a best-in-class review process that provides timely reviews that are fair, critical, and constructive. Arguably M&SOM can now claim to be the premier journal dedicated to operations management. Indeed, in looking forward I do not see a lot to change and certainly very little to fix. The main challenges will be to sustain the very positive trajectory that the journal is now on and to increase its visibility and the awareness of all that has been accomplished by the journal. In the remainder of this letter I will comment on why I agreed to be considered for the position of Editor, what I would like to accomplish, and how I would like to do this over the next three years. I will close with an overview of a few changes for the journal.
Modified locus equations categorize stop place in a perceptually realistic time frame

Slope and y-intercepts of locus equations have previously been shown to successfully classify place of articulation for English voiced stop consonants when derived from measurements at vowel onset and vowel midpoint. However, listeners are capable of identifying English voiced stops when less than 30 ms of vowel is presented. The present results show that modified locus equation measurements made within the first several pitch periods of a vowel following an English voiced stop were also successful at classifying place of articulation, consistent with the amount of vocalic information necessary for perceptual identification of English voiced stops /b d g/.
Measurement and Analysis of Upconversion Rates of Er:YAG at Room Temperature

We have measured upconversion fluorescence resulting from the excitation of room temperature 1% and 5% Er:YAG by a 1532 nm nanosecond pump source. Measurements of the fluorescence decay from the 4 I 13/2 , 4 I 11/2 , 4 F 9/2 and 4 S 3/2 manifolds to the 4 I 15/2 ground state manifold were observed over a wide range of excitation pulse fluence values. A unique set of upconversion parameters were extracted from the measurements using a modification of the traditional rate equation model. Results of calculation are compared to measurement.
Geographical Patterns of Boll Weevil Mortality: Observations and Hypothesis

Geographical and phenological patterns in the mortality of immature boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis grandis Boheman, were observed within cotton buds in three regions of Texas during 1983. Boundaries of the geographical regions (eastcoastal, northcentral, and midwestern Texas), were determined based on patterns of mortality contributed by parasitism, predation, and desiccation. Predation was the dominant factor contributing to boll weevil mortality in cotton in the eastcoastal region, accounting for an average of 58% mortality. The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, was the major predator of the boll weevil in the eastcoastal region. In the midwestern region, desiccation accounted for an average 57% of immature weevil mortality. In the northcentral region, boll weevil mortality was almost equally distributed among parasitism (23%), predation (23%), and desiccation (30%). Parasitism occurred most often in the northcentral region, although it was not the dominant mortality factor in any region. The hymenopteran Bracon mellitor Say was the major parasite of the boll weevil. Average boll weevil mortality occurring in the egg stage was <8%. Mortality attributable to disease in the larval through teneraI adult stage was <9% in all three regions. Despite the varied contributions of each mortality factor, total mortality was fairly equal among geographical regions; total mortality was 82% in the northcentral region, 71% in the midwestern region, and 64% in the eastcoastal region.
Mitochondrially targeted Endonuclease III has a powerful anti-infarct effect in an in vivo rat model of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion

Recent reports indicate that elevating DNA glycosylase/AP lyase repair enzyme activity offers marked cytoprotection in cultured cells and a variety of injury models. In this study, we measured the effect of EndoIII, a fusion protein construct that traffics Endonuclease III, a DNA glycosylase/AP lyase, to the mitochondria, on infarct size in a rat model of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion. Open-chest, anesthetized rats were subjected to 30 min of occlusion of a coronary artery followed by 2 h of reperfusion. An intravenous bolus of EndoIII, 8 mg/kg, just prior to reperfusion reduced infarct size from 43.8 ± 1.4 % of the risk zone in control animals to 24.0 ± 1.3 % with no detectable hemodynamic effect. Neither EndoIII’s vehicle nor an enzymatically inactive EndoIII mutant (K120Q) offered any protection. The magnitude of EndoIII’s protection was comparable to that seen with the platelet aggregation inhibitor cangrelor (25.0 ± 1.8 % infarction of risk zone). Because loading with a P2Y12 receptor blocker to inhibit platelets is currently the standard of care for treatment of acute myocardial infarction, we tested whether EndoIII could further reduce infarct size in rats treated with a maximally protective dose of cangrelor. The combination reduced infarct size to 15.1 ± 0.9 % which was significantly smaller than that seen with either cangrelor or EndoIII alone. Protection from cangrelor but not EndoIII was abrogated by pharmacologic blockade of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase or adenosine receptors indicating differing cellular mechanisms. We hypothesized that EndoIII protected the heart from spreading necrosis by preventing the release of proinflammatory fragments of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) into the heart tissue. In support of this hypothesis, an intravenous bolus at reperfusion of deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) which should degrade any DNA fragments escaping into the extracellular space was as protective as EndoIII. Furthermore, the combination of EndoIII and DNase I produced additive protection. While EndoIII would maintain mitochondrial integrity in many of the ischemic cardiomyocytes, DNase I would further prevent mtDNA released from those cells that EndoIII could not save from propagating further necrosis. Thus, our mtDNA hypothesis would predict additive protection. Finally to demonstrate the toxicity of mtDNA, isolated hearts were subjected to 15 min of global ischemia. Infarct size doubled when the coronary vasculature was filled with mtDNA fragments during the period of global ischemia. To our knowledge, EndoIII and DNase are the first agents that can both be given at reperfusion and add to the protection of a P2Y12 blocker, and thus should be effective in today’s patient with acute myocardial infarction.
An evaluation of theories for predicting turbulent skin friction and heat transfer on flat plates at supersonic and hypersonic Mach numbers

Turbulent skin friction and heat transfer prediction on flat plates and wind tunnel walls at supersonic and hypersonic Mach numbers, using Van Driest theory
Serum α2-macroglobulin and α1-inhibitor 3 concentrations are increased in hypoalbuminemia by post-transcriptional mechanisms

Serum α 2-macroglobulin and α 1-inhibitor 3 concentrations are increased in hypoalbuminemia by post-transcriptional mechanisms. In both the nephrotic syndrome (NS) and hereditary analbuminemia in the Nagase analbuminemic rat (NAR), the plasma protein concentration is nearly normal since albumin is replaced by several high molecular weight proteins. In rats these include the protease inhibitors α 2-macroglobulin ( α 2 M), a 720 kDa positive acute phase protein (APP) and α 1-inhibitor 3 ( α 1-I3), a 180 kDa negative APP. There is no known stimulus to increase α 1-I3 synthesis, but like albumin and other negative APPs its synthesis decreases during inflammation by transcriptional down-regulation. In hypoalbuminemic states gene transcription of other positive and negative APPs is increased. We report that α 2 M was increased significantly (12-fold) in NAR and by approximately 50-fold in rats with NS compared to control. The α 1-I3 concentration was twice normal in NAR or NS compared to controls, providing approximately half of the total plasma protein. Infusion of human albumin into NAR to raise albumin levels > 20 mg/ml for 24 hours caused a significant decrease in α 1-I3 (24.8 ± 0.6 to 18.7 ± 0.6 mg/ml, P μ g/100 g of endotoxin (23.0 ± 1.1 to 18.6 ± 0.6, P α 2 M (239 ± 10 to 205 ± 11 μg/ml, P 125 I labeled α 2 M and α 1-I3 was then measured in controls, NAR and in two models of the nephrotic syndrome in rats (Heymann nephritis, HN; adriamycin-induced, ADR), yielding fractional catabolic rates (FCR), which at steady state equals synthesis. The serum α 2 M concentration was increased ≈50-fold and was proportional to synthesis ( r = 0.91 P α 2-Macroglobulin synthesis increased by 12-fold in NAR and 50-fold in NS. In contrast, hepatic α 2 M mRNA increased only 30% in NAR and twofold in NS, suggesting post-transcriptional regulation. Fractional catabolic rates were not decreased and played no role in increasing serum α 2 M in NS or NAR. The α 1-I3 concentration and synthesis increased twofold from controls in both NAR and NS. However, hepatic α 1-I3 mRNA was not increased in NAR and increased only 50% in NS. Unlike α 2 M, serum α 1-I3 correlated negatively with FCR (- r = 0.66, P α 1-I3 and α 2 M concentration are increased in hypooncotic states by increased synthesis regulated post-transcriptionally, supporting plasma protein concentration when albumin is lost in urine or not synthesized.
An experimental approach to detecting dementia in Down syndrome: a paradigm for Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract Measures developed from animal models of aging may detect dementia of the Alzheimer’s type in a population at-risk for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although, by middle age, individuals with Down syndrome (DS) show an extraordinarily high prevalence of AD-type pathology, their severe idiopathic cognitive deficits tend to confound the clinical diagnosis of AD. The current study was designed to improve detection of AD in DS by using measures of learning and memory derived from animal models of aging. Adults with DS (N = 34) were assessed and reassessed (n = 19) approximately one year later using stimulus–response (S–R) test methods derived from experimental literature, as well as standardized informant-based tests. Results demonstrated high validity and reliability of select tests. The implication of early symptom detection in a population at-risk for AD-type dementia was discussed in terms of potential brain regions of interest.
Developmental aspects and the effect of carbon dioxide tension on fetal cephalic blood flow

Abstract The relationship between the development of fetal cortical activity in terms of the electroencephalogram (EEG), fetal brain browth, and cephalic blood flow was studied in vivo in 21 sheep experiments. Carotid blood flow to the fetal cephalus was measured during the last third of gestation (100–145 days) by means of a perivasular flowmeter. “T” catheters were placed in the carotid artery and jugular vein for intermittent blood sampling, continuous pressure recording, and in vivo calibration of the flow transducer. A bipolar, extradural EEG was recorded from each hemisphere throughout the experiment. Fetal PCO2 was altered by ventilating the ewe with various concentrations of CO2. During this period of gestation there was a 100% increase in brain weight. Blood flow in ml/min increased proportionately so that blood flow to 100 g of brain tissue was insignificantly different throughout the period. The gestational change in blood flow was the result of a significant fall in cephalic resistance. Blood flow was altered by changes in fetal PCO2 as early as 105 days gestation. An increase or decrease in PCO2 was followed by an increase or decrease in blood flow. The differences in PCO2 explain the minor differences in blood flow to 100 g of brain tissue that were observed. The results suggest that blood flow to the brain was adequate to maintain a constant supply of substrate during this period of rapid structural and functional development.
Zooplanktivorous fish and variable diel vertical migration in the marine planktonic copepod Calanus pacificus

As a field test of the hypothesis that variable diel vertical migration in zooplankton is a response to variations in the abundance of visually orienting predators, we sampled juvenile and adult planktivorous fish inhabiting a temperate fjord (Dabob Bay, Washington) concurrently with the vertical distributions of a population of adult female Calanus pacificus (Copepoda: Calanoida) known to exhibit seasonally variable diel vertical migration. Results of nighttime trawling on seven dates between April 1985 and October 1986 and subsequent stomach content analyses showed that eight species of fish, comprising 45 different size classes, fed on adult female C. pacificus; all species of fish showed marked seasonal and interannual variations in their abundances. The extent to which the population of C. pacificus exhibited diel vertical migration was determined for each cruise date by calculating the proportion of the population crossing 75-m depth on a diel cycle. A statistically significant regression was obtained between strength of diel vertical migration in C. pacificus and abundance of fish actively preying on the copepod. We propose that the timing and magnitude of changes in the migration behavior of C. pacificus in Dabob Bay are directly linked to the year-class strengths of the dominant species of planktivorous fish.
Diffusion structures in Mo vs. Si solid-solid diffusion couples

Silicides of refractory metals have been employed in a wide variety of industrial applications ranging from electronics to aerospace technology. Silicide films are employed extensively in the electronics industry as contacts and interconnects in integrated silicon devices. Interest in silicides and silicide-based composites for high temperature applications has been renewed in recent years. MoSi{sub 2} possesses many of the favorable properties that are required for a high temperature material. MoSi{sub 2} has a high melting point, low density, excellent high temperature oxidation and corrosion resistance, and it exhibits metallic-like thermal and electrical conductivity. A few studies have been carried out on the growth of silicides in the Mo vs. Si system but have reported different results on layer growth kinetics. The objective of the present study was to investigate diffusion structures in Mo vs. Si solid-solid diffusion couples annealed at selected temperatures between 900--1,350 C and to explore the stoichiometry and texture of the MoSi{sub 2} diffusion layer.