cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bone healing: little secrets.

The development of new strategies to enhance the healing of fractures continues to evolve with the introduction of both locally and systemically delivered compounds. The recent refinement in the use of autologous bone marrow as a bone graft material has brought the field of stem cell biology into orthopaedic practice. New recombinant peptides such as platelet-derived growth factor and teriparatide show promise as local and systemic enhancers respectively. Finally, recent evidence that mutations in elements of the Wnt signaling pathway lead to gain-of-function mutations in bone formation in rare clinical settings has provided the basis for the targeting of this pathway for the development of therapeutic agents for bone repair. These recent developments are presented as the “little secrets” of present day bone healing
Prosecutorial Ethics and Victims' Rights: The Prosecutor's Duty of Neutrality

In recent years, enhanced legal protections for victims has caused victims to become increasingly involved in the criminal justice process, often working closely with prosecutors. In this Article, Professor Gershman analyzes the potential challenges to prosecutors' ethical duties that victims' participation may bring and suggests appropriate responses.
Improving Patient Outcomes With Cancer Genomics: Unique Opportunities and Challenges in Pediatric Oncology

Precision medicine, the individualization of health care based on unique patient-specific variables, is not new, especially within oncology. Historically, there has been a “depersonalization” of cancer care by defining histotype-specific standard-of-care treatments for the majority of malignancies, although in contrast oncologists have been adept at individualizing therapy, especially when confronted with disease relapse. Practicing oncologists seek evidence-based approaches to improve patient outcomes, but much of the current personalization of care remains largely empirical. Nevertheless, over the past decade there has been increasing enthusiasm for using genomic data to more precisely diagnose cancer, predict outcomes, and prescribe “targeted” therapies. Although substantial progress has been made, both anticipated and unanticipated barriers exist in integrating sequencing technologies into the care of patients with cancer. Clearly, for multiple reasons, many challenges remain to prove that personalized genomic medicine can substantively improve outcomes for patients with cancer. These challenges are further accentuated with childhood cancers.
A scanning electron-microscopic analysis of the intraparenchymal brain vasculature following experimental hypertension

The effects of acute systemic hypertension on the intraparenchymal cerebral vasculature of cats was assessed by morphological means. Intravenous horseradish peroxidase administration coupled with light microscopy was employed to identify brain sites manifesting hypertension-induced peroxidase extravasation and therein the luminal surface of the intraparenchymal vasculature was examined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Comparable SEM studies were also conducted within sites reflecting no altered peroxidase permeability. Via these techniques, hypertension was recognized to evoke significant vascular change throughout the neuraxis. The luminal endothelia of that vasculature contained within the peroxidase extravasation sites demonstrated numerous plasmalemmal pits and the occasional presence of balloon- and crater-like lesions which were localized along the marginal lines. In sites demonstrating no peroxidase exudation, these plasmalemmal pits were infrequent; yet, the balloon and crater-like lesions, again localized along the marginal lines, were now conspicuous and regular endothelial features. Within the peroxidase extravasation sites, plasmalemmal pits could be identified within minutes of the onset of the hypertensive event, while in all loci endothelial balloons were observed prior to the appearance of craters. These results demonstrate that numerous plasmalemmal pits, the SEM correlates of vesicles observed with transmission electron microscopy, appear to be temporally and spatially linked to the peroxidase extravasation and as such this may suggest that these phenomena are causally linked. The significance of endothelial balloons and craters, which are most prevalent in sites not manifesting peroxidase extravasation, is unclear; however, based on a parallel study conducted in the pial vasculature, the suggestion is advanced that their appearance may be linked to the loss of microvascular autoregulation.
Clinical Characteristics of Choroidal Neovascular Membranes

• Eighty-three choroidal neovascular membranes (CNVMs) associated with pathologic entities other than age-related macular degeneration (study group) were compared with 64 CNVMs associated with macular degeneration (comparison group). Nine CNVMs (11%) in the study group, compared with 28 CNVMs (44%) in the comparison group, were occult membranes. Of the remaining well-defined CNVMs, 16 (22%) in the study group, compared with 21 (58%) in the comparison group, were subfoveal. Of the welldefined subfoveal membranes, four (25%) in the study group, compared with 17 (81%) in the control group, were large (greater than 1500 μm in size). All large subfoveal membranes occurred in patients over 55 years of age. Thus, in this study the majority of CNVMs associated with pathologic entities other than age-related macular degeneration were well defined and not subfoveal at initial presentation. The majority of CNVMs associated with macular degeneration were occult or subfoveal. Membranes in patients over 55 years of age, regardless of cause, were commonly found to be occult or subfoveal at presentation.
Health care cost escalation in the united states: Implications of market failure

Much of the rhetoric in the debate over health care reform suggests reconfiguring the health care system so that the free market forces can work efficiently. This paper will show that hopes for a free market solution to the maldistribution of health care are false. The free market system cannot work at the same level of efficiency for health care as it does in the distribution of other goods and services. Health care presents an anomaly to the free market system, making optimal and efficient distribution virtually impossible. That failure of the market system has led to a crisis of disparity in health care access and delivery in the United States.
Gp78, an E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Acts as a Gatekeeper Suppressing Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) and Liver Cancer

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is related to metabolic dysregulation and the perturbation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis that frequently develops into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Gp78 is E3 ligase, which regulates endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD) by ubiquitinylation of misfolded ER proteins. Here, we report that upon ageing (12 months), gp78-/- mice developed obesity, recapitulating age-related human NASH. Liver histology of gp78-/- mice revealed typical steatosis, hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, followed by progression to hepatocellular tumors. Acute ER stress revealed that loss of gp78 results in up regulation of unfolded protein response (UPR) pathways and SREBP-1 regulating de novo lipogenesis, responsible for fatty liver. Tissue array of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) demonstrated that the expression of gp78 was inversely correlated with clinical grades of cancer. Here, we have described the generation of the first preclinical experimental model system which spontaneously develops age-related NASH and HCC, linking ERAD to hepatosteatosis, cirrhosis, and cancer. It suggests that gp78 is a regulator of normal liver homeostasis and a tumor suppressor in human liver.
Reply to ''Solar Wind Effects on the Surface Chemistry of Lunar Grains'' by E. Bilson

Bilson (1978) has criticized our interpretation of ion probe measurements on lunar plagioclase grains by contending that the sputter action of solar wind H and He can account for observed surface enhancements of Mg and Fe. We think that an inappropriate analogy between lunar bulk soils and plagioclase grains led Bilson to this conclusion. While it is true that ion implantation is unlikely to have a dominant effect on the major element composition of the surface of lunar grains of average bulk soil composition, we show that chemical alteration by solar wind sputtering cannot explain our ion probe result on plagioclase grains. Glass splashes on shielded grains and solar wind implanted ions on some selected exposed crystals are the most likely source of Mg and Fe enhancements.
Real-time nozzle flow uniformity when using automatic section control on agricultural sprayers

Automatic section control (ASC) has been readily adopted by US producers on sprayers because it can improve operator productivity and decrease overlap or input usage leading to economic savings while reducing environmental impacts. However, there is limited knowledge about nozzle flow dynamics when shutting ON/OFF of boom-sections or nozzles and the possible impact on application accuracy. Therefore, an investigation was conducted to evaluate system response in managing real-time nozzle off-rate and flow uniformity across the boom, for a typical agricultural sprayer using ASC. An 18.3-m sprayer was outfitted with commercially available individual nozzle and boom-section control. Tests were conducted to simulate sprayer moving out of point rows into a no-spray zone and then reentry into the spray zone by selecting two point row scenarios having 20^o and 70^o angles. Ten high frequency response pressure sensors were randomly mounted across the boom to measure nozzle pressure. The nozzle pressures were converted to nozzle flow, using the manufacturers pressure versus flow relationship, to calculate nozzle flow rate delay time, settling time, percent off-rate (percent difference between actual and target nozzle flow rate) and nozzle flow uniformity (CV), considering only ON boom-sections. Auto-boom scenarios were conducted with and with-out flow compensation while auto-nozzle scenarios were conducted without flow compensation. Results indicated that nozzle flow rate settling time varied from 0.4 to 14.4s and nozzle off-rate between 36.6% and +28.7% for 70^o point row auto-boom tests when exiting and reentering point rows. When exiting point rows, over-application occurred whereas reentry resulted in under-application during flow compensated tests. Nozzle flow uniformity (CV) were more than 50% for a short duration (<1.0s) when reentering point rows, during all tests. Compensation testing for 20^o point row reentry highlighted the constraint of the control system to respond to certain situations where feedback response times could not match target rates rapidly set for the controller. Overall results indicated that system response time can impact nozzle off-rate and can vary with point row angle.
Deep-level defects and diffusion length measurements in low energy proton-irradiated GaAs

A detailed characterization of deep-level defects induced by low energy proton irradiation in n-GaAs LPE layer using AlGaAs-GaAs mesa structure has been carried out for several proton energies (i.e., 50 100 and 290 kev) and fluences (i.e., 1010, 1011, and 1012 p/cm2), using DLTS, SEM-EBIC, I-V and C-V measurement techniques. Important defect and recombination parameters such as density and energy level of electron and hole traps, thermal emission rates and capture cross sections for electrons and holes in each trap level as well as hole diffusion lengths in the n-GaAs LPE layer were deduced from these measurements. Hole diffusion lengths determined by the EBIC, DLTS, and I-V measurements are found in good agreement. It is shown that dark current under forward bias condition was dominated by recombination of electron-hole pairs via deep level defects in the junction space charge region of the diode. Significant carrier removal occurs for proton fluence greater than 1013p/cm2.
Mental Models for Parenting: Correlates of Metaparenting among Fathers of Young Children

The present study explored the antecedents and correlates of metaparenting, defined as mental plans for parenting across five subscales: responding, preventing, monitoring, mentoring, and modeling. Cross sectional data on a diverse sample of 74 fathers were drawn from a larger longitudinal project that interviewed men four times over the first two years of their children’s lives. A structural equation model revealed that fathers’ reports of positive parenting role models and intelligence were found to be related to working models of parenting as measured by the five components of metaparenting. Most importantly, higher levels of metaparenting were associated with authoritative parenting and less abuse potential. Results provided preliminary evidence for the importance of a mental model of parenting among fathers.
Application of enhanced dynamic wedge to stereotactic radiotherapy.

Linear accelerator based stereotactic radiotherapy systems have traditionally utilized rotational arcs with small circular collimators to create relatively conformal dose distributions within a target volume [1,2]. Large or irregularly shaped targets require multiple isocenters to achieve conformality at the expense of dose inhomogeneity within the target volume. The micro-multileaf (MLC) collimator is a recent innovation specifically designed for small-field stereotactic radiotherapy that has improved the conformality of dose delivery to irregularly shaped targets [3–8]. This is accomplished by movement of the narrow-leaf collimators to conform to the shape of the target as seen through a “beams-eye-view” projection during arc rotation. However, neighboring critical structures and physical constraints imposed by patient fixation devices often limit the beam trajectories and geometries available for dose delivery. Dose delivery through limited numbers of fixed fields may be optimal in these situations. However, it is often difficult to achieve a uniform dose distribution using uncompensated or non-intensity modified beams.
Millimeter-wave broadband mode-transition between grounded coplanar waveguide and postwall waveguide

In this paper, a broadband mode-transition between grounded coplanar waveguide (GCPW) and post-wall waveguide (PWW) is proposed. The transition is composed of GCPW, microstrip line (MSL) and PWW. The transition is fabricated on liquid crystal polymer (LCP) substrate due to its low dielectricity and availability of roll-to-roll process for fabrication of devices with cost reduction. The GCPW GSG pad has two through-holes at longitudinal direction and a rectangular slot are added in each pattern of ground pads. Broadband impedance matching is obtained by these structures thanks to an addition of lumped inductance and capacitance to the mode-transition. In the mode-transition between MSL to PWW, a shape of microstirp line is tapered and dimension is optimized for broadband operation. A 24% impedance bandwidth for |S 11 | less than −15 dB is achieved in measurement of fabricated mode-transition. Loss of GCPW GSG pad and MSL-PWW transition with 0.120 dB and 0.276 dB at 60 GHz are evaluated from measured results. This mode-transition is one of candidate for usage of low loss antenna-in-package with substrate at higher frequency band.
Avalanche Transistor Pulser for Fast-Gated Operation of Microchannel Plate Image-Intensifiers

Transistors operated in the avalanche mode are employed to generate a 1000 volt 10 to 30 nsec wide pulse with < 4 nsec rise and fall times. This pulse is resistively attenuated to ? 270 volts and drives the image intensifier tube which is a load of ? 200 pf. To reduce stray inductance and capacitance, transistor chips were assembled on a thick-film hybrid substrate. Circuit parameters, operating conditions, and coupling to the microchannel plate image-intensifier (MCPI2) tube are described. To provide dc operating voltages and control of transient voltages on the MCPI2 tube a resistance-capacitance network has been developed which (a) places the MCPI2 output phosphor at ground, (b) provides programmable gains in "f-stop" steps, and (c) minimizes voltage transients on the MCPI2 tube.
Labor supply in urban China

Abstract Using labor supply responses from 10,560 urban Chinese workers, two-stage least squares estimations identify positive compensated wage effects and negative income effects that are, for the most part, statistically significant. The gross wage effects are mostly positive but they indicate relatively low uncompensated labor supply elasticities. The compensated wage effects are much larger; these may be important in assessing the labor market consequences of reform policies that monetize non-pecuniary benefits. The significance of labor supply responses depends on individual responsibilities within the family; the effects are largest for women and non-household heads. Journal of Comparative Economics 31 (4) (2003) 795–817.
Second-harmonic generation studies of crosslinkable nonlinear optical copolymers

Polymethacrylate copolymers, containing non-linear optically active 4'-dialkylamino-4-nitro- azobenzene side groups and crosslinkable 2-butenyl side groups have been studied. Films of these copolymers can be thermally crosslinked at elevated temperatures and photochemically crosslinked by exposure with UV light; both methods allow the control of the crosslinking density. In situ second harmonic generation (SHG) of a Nd-YAG laser (1.064 micrometers ) while poling was used to study films with different degrees of pre-crosslinking. A pre-crosslinking step, prior to the corona poling step, can be applied to optimize alignment and relaxation of the chromophores. Depending on the conditions of pre-crosslinking, the SHG signal intensity and the alignment stability can be maximized.
Pre-Incan Archeology of Peru: Paleo-Indians in the Paleo-Climate.

Discover the archeology of Peru and uncover the causes for the mass extinctions and new food sources and the impact this had on settlement patterns. Peru's prehistory, climate, and terrain are the ...
Levels in A38 observed through the Cl37 (p, n) A37 reaction near threshold

Abstract Thin Cl37 targets were bombarded with monoenergetic protons, the overall proton energy resolution being about 1.7 keV. A long counter was used to observe neutrons from the Cl37(p, n)A37 reaction at energies up to 0.8 MeV above the reaction threshold. The widths and spacings of 91 resonances were measured. A gross structure was discerned, believed to be related to a neutron independent-particle state near the neutron separation energy.
Social identity, perception and motivation in adaptation to climate risk in the coffee sector of Chiapas, Mexico

Most investigation into climate adaptation to date has focused on specific technological interventions and socio-economic aspects of adaptive capacity. New perspectives posit that socio-cognitive factors may be as or more important in motivating individuals to take adaptive actions. Recent research indicates that incorporating insights from motivation theory can enhance theorization of adaptive capacity. Yet unexplored, and what we propose here, is the addition of social identity to models of adaptive capacity and adaptation. To apply this conceptual framework, the first author undertook in-depth interviews with a sample of farmers who had participated in broader surveys the previous year to explore their perceptions of their social identity, climate-related information and its sources, and climate risk. These interviews elicited compelling evidence that social identity mediates between risk perception and adaptation through its influence on motivation. Interviews revealed significant links between social identity and perception of information, risk perception and adaptation, of which the most salient were the relative credibility and legitimacy of information sources (related to us vs. them social group differentiation); the role of coffee organizations; and ethnicity and geographic marginalization. Strong in-group identity and perceptions of potentially influential out-groups such as the scientific community appear to particularly influence perception and use of information. These findings have rich policy implications for adaptation management and merit further investigation to identify how, where and why social identity plays a role in climate-risk perception, motivation and adaptation in other geographic areas of vulnerability worldwide.
Retinal Vasculitis Associated With Autoantibodies to Sjögren's Syndrom A Antigen

Severe retinal vasculitis caused by a systemic lupus-like illness developed in two patients with distinctive clinical and immunologic characteristics. Both patients were young women with mild systemic disease and autoantibodies directed against a protein-ribonucleic acid complex termed the Sjogren's syndrome A antigen (SSA). One patient had no antibodies to nuclear antigens on conventional testing, and the other had a low-titer antinuclear antibody test. At the time of onset of retinal arteriolitis, neither patient had an exacerbation of multisystem disease or serologic activity. Despite oral and parenteral corticosteroids, cytotoxic agents, and panretinal photocoagulation, both patients suffered progressive irreversible retinal ischemia, optic disk and retinal neovascularization, vitreous hemorrhage, traction retinal detachment, and anterior segment neovascularization.
An extrachromosomal factor causing loss of paternal chromosomes.

Extrachromosomal inheritance is ubiquitous among plants and animals; however, most extrachromosomal factors are uniparentally inherited through females, but not through males1. Examples include chloroplasts, mitochondria and a variety of intracellular symbionts. The only known exception to maternal extrachromo-somal inheritance in an animal is a paternally transmitted sex ratio factor (psr) which causes all-male families in the parasitic wasp, Nasonia vitripennis2,3. Normally in this wasp, male offspring are haploid and develop from unfertilized eggs whereas females are diploid and develop from fertilized eggs. The psr factor is either a venereally transmitted infection which prevents egg fertiliz-ation (and therefore causes all-male families), or a factor transmit-ted to eggs by the sperm of males carrying psr, which somehow prevents incorporation of the paternal chromosomes. Here we report that sperm from psr males fertilizes eggs, but that the paternal chromosomes are subsequently condensed into a chromatin mass before the first mitotic division of the egg and do not participate in further divisions. Resulting haploid offspring are male, but have inherited the paternal factor. This extrachromo-somal factor promotes its own transmission at the expense of the paternal chromosomes, and therefore can be considered a 'selfish' genetic element.
Pareto‐Efficiency and the Provision of Public Goods Within a Rural Setting

The ability of small rural governments to provide local public goods in a Pareto-efficient manner is examined. A test developed by Brueckner (1982) is used to examine the efficiency of a sample of town governments in rural Maine. The empirical results suggest that local property values are maximized, which implies that local public goods are provided in a Pareto-efficient manner.
Religion, resources, and work-family balance

It is increasingly recognised that work and family roles are interconnected. This is one reason why researchers and practitioners are working to understand and facilitate balance between work and nonwork roles. Most existing literature defines inter-role balance by emphasising work and family roles alone; unfortunately, this narrow focus prevents us from recognising individuals’ engagements in many other roles that may also influence one's balance. The present study expands our thinking about work-family balance by presenting and testing a model that incorporates involvement in a third role, organised religion. Specifically, we examine religious involvement, among Hindus living in the United States (N = 105), as a predictor of resource gain and loss, and its effect on perceptions of work-family balance. Working within a Conversation of Resources framework, it was then expected that this resource gain/loss would influence coping strategies and perceptions of bi-directional work-family conflict and facilita...
Determinants of scent marking and ultrasonic calling by female Turkish hamsters, Mesocricetus brandti

Vaginal marking and flank marking by female Turkish hamsters in response to conspecific males varies regularly with the estrous cycle, both being lowest in frequency when females are estrous. Ultrasonic calling tends to be highest at this time. The causation and probably the functions of these behaviors seem to be similar to those described for the golden hamster.
Preparation and characterization of a europium(II) bromide-chloride phase EuBr1.5Cl0.5

Abstract A divalent europium chloride-bromide phase, EuBr1.56(7)Cl0.46(2) has been prepared and identified on the basis of analytical, X-ray powder diffraction and single-crystal data. Although the phase is considered isostructural with EuCl2 (PbCl2 structure type, a = 0.9230 (5), b = 0.7890 (4), c = 0.4613 (3) nm, space group Pbnm), the single-crystal data indicate long-range order in the form of a superstructure which doubles the b parameter. In the pseudocell the square pyramidal anion sites are occupied principally by bromide ions, the tetrahedral sites almost equally by bromide and chlorine ions. Structural details and the long-range order are discussed. Evidence is presented for the existence of another europium(II) mixed halide phase, EuBr1.8(2)Cl0.16(2).
Toward noninvasive microspectrofluorometry of skin lesions for diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of cell metabolism and organelle interactions

The basic principle of this approach relies on microspectrofluorometric observations of upheavals in the cell's energy metabolism and cell-to-cell metabolic communication in human and mouse melanoma cells. A striking feature is the definition of a highly active nuclear energy metabolism in M8255 human melanoma cells which is characterized by an intense fluorescence response associated with NAD(P) reduction by substrates of glycolysis or the hexose monophosphate shunt. Changes are also expected in the steady state levels of reduced/oxidized NAD(P) in the nuclear, cytoplasmic and mitochondrial compartments, which are probably dependent on ATP levels and distribution (as determined by cell metabolism and eventually the presence of ATP traps). A topographic scanning of skin lesions, either under metabolic steady state conditions or in the presence of permeating substrates, can lead to the recognition of characteristic patterns associated with pigmented and nonpigmented, malignant and nonmalignant skin lesions. The method is, in a way, an extension of microscopic transillumination techniques which have led to the identification of specific patterns associated with such lesions. However, here, a new dimension is added by introduction of fluorescence evaluations. This can represent the first step in a multiparameter approach to the non-invasive in situ fluorescence scan of dermatological lesions by inclusion of: (1) fluorescence excitation and emission spectra; (2) new fluorescence probes of cytoplasmic organelles and nuclear components. Primary emphasis should be placed on the highly active nuclear energy metabolism, which can be triggered to maximum levels when the role of mitochondria as the `cells's policeman' with regard to metabolic control is suppressed by use of topically cytotoxic agents such as the `antipsoriatic' anthralin and dicarboxylic acids used in the local treatment of melanoma. Fluorescence excitation spectroscopy may be of particular advantage in studies with the new highly sensitive cyanine nucleic acid dyes and their dimers, but caution should be exerted in the use of such compounds because of cytotoxicity (e.g., limiting it to cellular studies used in the interpretation of dermatological findings). Parallel cellular and non-invasive dermatological studies will help to define the most specific set of parameters to be used in diagnostic and prognostic evaluations of skin lesions.
Methods of Altering the Characteristics of a Multilayer Stack

The reflectance R of a multilayer stack is changed as either the thickness t or refractive index n of any of the films in the stack is altered. An efficient method of computing the first partial derivatives ∂R/∂t and ∂R/∂n is presented. An example is cited in which these derivatives are employed in a relaxation process which is utilized to improve the design of a multilayer containing absorbing films, which is used as a reflection filter in the vacuum-ultraviolet spectral region.
Fast sparse matrix multiplication

Abstract A new space-efficient representation for sparse matrices is introduced and a fast sparse matrix multiplication algorithm based on the new representation is presented. The scheme is very efficient when the nonzero elements of a sparse matrix are partially or fully adjacent to one another as in band or triangular matrices. The space complexity of the new representation is better than that of existing algorithms when the number of sets of adjacent nonzero elements, called segments, is less than two thirds of the total number of nonzero elements. The time complexity of the associated sparse matrix multiplication algorithm is also better or even much better than that of existing schemes depending on the number of segments in the factor matrices.
Universal screening for postpartum depression: an inquiry into provider attitudes and practice.

Objective This study evaluated the use of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for detection of postpartum depression (PPD) in an academic medical center outpatient population and assessed knowledge and attitudes of obstetric providers regarding detection and treatment of PPD. Study Design A total of 512 charts were reviewed for demographic, medical, and psychiatric information. Also, a validated e-mail survey was sent to University of North Carolina obstetrical providers (n = 47). Results Our chart review revealed that providers documented the EPDS score in 39% of visits and counseled patients on their score and/or depression in 35% of visits. The survey results show that all respondents agree that they are responsible for screening for PPD, and 94% are confident in diagnosing PPD. Conclusion The majority of obstetric providers are not documenting the EPDS in their postpartum assessment, yet they feel responsible for and confident in screening for postpartum depression.
Interactions of porphyrins and transfer RNA.

Abstract The interactions of the free base porphyrin, tetra-(4 N -methylpyridyl)porphyrin and its copper(II), manganese(III) and zinc(II) complexes with brewer's yeast type V phenylalaninyl tRNA were evaluated by UV-visible spectroscopy, circular dichroism and melting temperature studies over a range of magnesium ion concentrations and ionic strengths. Scatchard analysis of absorption spectra of the porphyrins in the presence of tRNA showed the free base, copper and zinc porphyrins to have binding constants of 7.3 · 10 7 , 1.7 · 10 6 and 2.3 · 10 8 , respectively; the manganese(III) complex did not demonstrate changes in its electronic spectra that enable the calculation of a binding constant. The results of the spectroscopic studies indicate a mode of binding for the free base, copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes that is neither intercalative nor simply outside electrostatic. The magnitude of the binding constants and the UV-visible results support intercalation, but the analyses of the thermal denaturation studies and the circular dichroism evaluations suggest that the porphyrins are associating at a single site in a fold of the tertiary structure of the tRNA close to several crucial hydrogen bonds, perhaps in the vicinity of the P10 loop. That the manganese(III) complex does not bind in this site points to constraints on the axial thickness of a molecule that may be accommodated in this locus.
NMR of Conditional Peripheral Membrane Proteins

Conditional membrane proteins associate with membranes in response to binding specific ligands. We report the application of NMR techniques to gain insight into the structure, dynamics, and protein-membrane interactions of two fundamentally different conditional membrane modules: C1 and C2 domains, both from the Protein Kinase Cα (PKCα), that are covalently linked to one another in the primary structure of the parent protein. Using NMR relaxation dispersion techniques, paramagnetic relaxation enhancement (PRE) experiments, and NMR-detected ligand binding studies, we demonstrate the role of conformational plasticity and initial membrane pre-association in modulating the affinity of the C1 domain to its natural cofactor, diacylglycerol. We show that the C2 domain employs a drastically different mechanism of membrane insertion that involves modulation of its electrostatic potential by divalent metal ions. The dynamics of loop and N- and C-terminal regions of C2 changes as a function of metal ligation state, suggesting a possible mechanism for propagating the information about the metal-binding event to other PKCα domains. In aggregate, our studies provide a view of conditional membrane domains as highly dynamic entities, in which conformational plasticity and synergistic action of cytosolic and membrane-embedded ligands define their nuanced signaling response. The functional and structural interplay between C1 and C2 domains will also be discussed in the context of the only two existing multi-domain structures of Protein Kinase C, one of which came from our laboratory.This work is supported by the NSF CAREER (CHE-2791151435) award to TII.
Convergence analysis of asynchronous linear iterations with stochastic delays

Abstract We present a general linear model of asynchronous iterations, the communication delays of which are stochastic with Markovian character. This model allows static or dynamic allocation of the iterate vector components to processors. It also allows simultaneous updating of the same vector component by multiple processors. Sufficient conditions under which the model of asynchronous iterations converges in the second moment (and in the mean) to the sought solution are provided. For the specialization of the Markov case when the communication delays are independent, identically distributed (i.i.d.), we provide sufficient conditions for convergence in the second moment and necessary and sufficient conditions for convergence in the mean.
Ontogeny of radial glia, astrocytes and vasoactive intestinal peptide immunoreactive neurons in hamster suprachiasmatic nucleus

Abstract Circadian rhythmicity of rodents is a property of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Such rhythmicity can be demonstrated in the prenatal SCN, yet there is little information about the cells in which rhythmicity is generated. The present study was performed to discover the developmental relationships of SCN glial cells and a class of identifiable SCN neurons. Toward this end, vimentin- (VIM), glial fibrillary acidic protein- (GFAP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide- (VIP) immunoreactivity were investigated in SCN radial glia, astrocytes and neurons, respectively. VIP-IR first appears at embryonic day 13 (E13) and is clearly identifiable in neurons at E14. Substantial axon extension begins at E15 and the postnatal day 10 (P10) SCN is adult-like. VIM-IR radial glia fill the SCN region at E13, but by P0, most are absent. On P3, the remaining processes are beaded suggesting degeneration. The first GFAP-IR elements are visible on E15 with a few clear astrocytes present at P0. The number of astrocytes lateral to and in the SCN continues to increase during the postnatal period achieving an adult-like appearance by P21. The data do not support the view that prenatal circadian rhythmicity is derived from astrocytes. VIP-IR neurons are apparently present sufficiently early to be part of the rhythm generating mechanism. These issues are discussed in the context of development of the SCN.
It Isn’t Always Rational: The Psychology of Voting and Lessons for Labor

Although labor studies research has commonly looked to sociology, history, and economics for new perspectives, behavioral psychology has largely been underutilized. This article provides a popular psychological model of behavior and examples of its application in issues of interest to labor, specifically the Employee Free Choice Act and the auto industry “rescue.” It is the authors’ belief that considering such models will provide a different viewpoint through which to analyze labor issues and promote further integration of psychology and labor studies.
Microwave Processing of Glass Fiber/Vinyl Ester-Vinyl Toluene Composites

Microwave processing has been investigated as an alternative to the conventional processing of polymers and polymer matrix composites. Different studies have demonstrated its viability and advantages, but various aspects related to its industrial applicability are still being investigated. Two aspects related to the microwave curing of glass fiber/vinyl ester-vinyl toluene composites have been studied. A qualitative evaluation was done to determine the reproducibility of heating patterns of these laminates in different modes of a microwave resonant cavity. The samples were prepared to similar physical and chemical specifications and heated in different single modes of the cavity. Another evaluation was done to compare the mechanical properties of microwave and thermally cured laminates subjected to flexural load. The samples were processed using similar cure cycles. The microwave samples were cured using a mode-switching technique and the thermal samples were cured in a temperature controlled oven. The void fractions of the samples were evaluated to develop pre-consolidation conditions that yield samples with low void fraction. Results of these two evaluations are discussed.
Meta-analysis of structural imaging findings in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Background Although there are many structural neuroimaging studies of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, there are inconsistencies across studies and no consensus regarding which brain regions show the most robust area or volumetric reductions relative to control subjects. Our goal was to statistically analyze structural imaging data via a meta-analysis to help resolve these issues. Methods We searched the MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases through January 2005. Studies must have been written in English, used magnetic resonance imaging, and presented the means and standard deviations of regions assessed. Data were extracted by one of the authors and verified independently by another author. Results Analyses were performed using STATA with metan, metabias, and metainf programs. A meta-analysis including all regions across all studies indicated global reductions for ADHD subjects compared with control subjects, standardized mean difference = .408, p Conclusions This meta-analysis provides a quantitative analysis of neuroanatomical abnormalities in ADHD and information that can be used to guide future studies.
A contact line pinning based microfluidic platform for modelling physiological flows

This work introduces a contact line pinning based microfluidic platform for the generation of interstitial and intramural flows within a three dimensional (3D) microenvironment for cellular behaviour studies. A contact line pinning method was used to confine a natively derived biomatrix, collagen, in microfluidic channels without walls. By patterning collagen in designated wall-less channels, we demonstrated and validated the intramural flows through a microfluidic channel bounded by a monolayer of endothelial cells (mimic of a vascular vessel), as well as slow interstitial flows within a cell laden collagen matrix using the same microfluidic platform. The contact line pinning method ensured the generation of an engineered endothelial tube with straight walls, and spatially uniform interstitial fluid flows through the cell embedded 3D collagen matrix. Using this device, we demonstrated that the breast tumour cells' (MDA-MB-231 cell line) morphology and motility were modulated by the interstitial flows, and the motility of a sub-population of the cells was enhanced by the presence of the flow. The presented microfluidic platform provides a basic framework for studies of cellular behaviour including cell transmigration, growth, and adhesion under well controlled interstitial and intramural flows, and within a physiologically realistic 3D co-culture setting.
An asymmetric synthesis of 4,4- and 6,6-dialkylcyclohexenones and 4,4- and 5,5-dialkylcyclopentenones. Application to the total synthesis of (-)-silphiperfol-6-ene

Abstract Chiral amino alcohols have been transformed into bicyclic lactams 1 and 6 which, after metalation and alkylation, gave high diastereomeric ratios of 2,2-dialkyl quaternary products, 29 and 12, respectively. Addition of organolithium reagents to the carbonyl of these lactams, followed by acidic cleavage, leads to enantiomerically pure cyclohex-2-enones and cyclopent-2-enones. This process was also applied to a key, chiral cyclopentenone 39, which was used by Curran, in racemic form, to prepare the angular triquinane, silphiperfol-6-ene. The total asymmetric synthesis was carried out in 6.6% yield over nine steps.
Photooxidation by Photosystem II of Tris-washed Chloroplasts

Irradiation of tris-washed chloroplasts with moderate intensities of red light caused a partial bleaching of chloroplast pigments and an inhibition of the hydroquinone-supported photoreduction of NADP. The presence of an electron donor for photosystem 2 (PS2) during the irradiation prevented the bleaching and inhibition. It is concluded that the strong oxidant produced by PS2 accumulates in tris-washed chloroplasts during irradiation and an electron donor for PS2 protects against the photooxidation reactions.
TH-C-I-611-06: MTF(f), NPS(f) and DQE(f) of An X-Ray Imaging System Based On a Photon Counting MCP Detector

Purpose: To evaluate inherent MTF(f), NPS(f) and DQE(f) of a prototype x‐ray imagingsystem with photon counting microchannel plate (MCP) detector.Method and Materials: The MCP detector was used in edge illumination mode as a linear array x‐ray detector in scanning slit image acquisition geometry. The detector FOV was 60 mm. MCPs with 63 mm length, 25 μm channel diameter and 5 μm channel wall thickness were used. The slit width was 0.25 mm. Delay line position encodingelectronics was used. Images were acquired using an x‐ray tube with 0.4 mm nominal focal spot size at 40 and 90 kVp using an SID of 50 cm and a magnification 1.1. MTF was measured using edge spread function method. NPS was calculated using flat field corrected flood images. DQE was calculated from MTF, NPS and using both measured and Monte Carlo calculated QE. Results: For 25 μm channel MCP, 50% MTF was achieved at 6 lp/mm and 4 lp/mm for 40 and 90 kVp tube voltages, respectively. The highest visualized frequency was 11 lp/mm at 40 kVp. NPS was shown to be frequency independent. QE measured at 90 kVp was 56% and 70% for 25 μm and 5 μm channel MCPs, respectively. Calculated QE was 64%, 86% and 92% for 25, 5 and 2 μm channel MCPs, at 90 kVp. The above QE values represent the DQE(0). The MTF(f) curves normalized by QE represent DQE(f) due to frequency independent nature of the NPS. Conclusion: MCP detector has shown adequate MTF(f) and DQE(f) for potential application in medical imaging. This is in addition to its inherently high count rate and scatter rejection feature of the scanning slit system. Combination of these capabilities in the photon countingsystem would allow for significant decrease in patient dose.
A new model for Boron diffusion retardation in SiGe-strained layers accounting for the mechanism of Boron trapping/detrapping by Ge atoms

The main drawbacks of the known models of the B diffusion in strained SiGe layers are summarized. A mechanism is suggested to self-consistently explain the main experimental features and original experimental data which considers the trapping of B atoms by Ge atoms during B diffusion in the Si lattice resulting in the retarded B diffusivity. Fluctuations of Ge atom numbers in a nearest B atom environment result in percolation mechanism of B transport through dilatation centers of random size. A new solid state transport modelis generalized by considering dispersion transport of positive and negative point dilatation defects.
Idiopathic calcific constrictive pericarditis causing pulmonary stenosis associated with a ventricular septal defect mimicking tetralogy of Fallot.

We describe an unusual case of pulmonary stenosis caused by calcific constrictive pericarditis associated with a congenital ventricular septal defect in a 16-year-old boy who had a 2-week history of progressive dyspnea, cyanosis, fatigue, and bilateral leg edema. Echocardiographic findings led to an initial diagnosis of tetralogy of Fallot; however, findings on chest radiography and CT were suggestive of calcific constrictive pericarditis with pulmonary stenosis, which was then confirmed on cardiac catheterization. Total pericardiectomy and repair of the ventricular septal defect resulted in a satisfactory outcome. Follow-up examinations at 6 and 20 months showed that the patient was asymptomatic and considered to have class I New York Heart Association functional status. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of calcific constrictive pericarditis with pulmonary stenosis associated with a ventricular septal defect.
(He3, n) reactions on various light nuclei

Abstract Neutron spectra have been obtained from reactions produced by 25 MeV He 3 particles on the following nuclei: He 4 , Be 9 , B 10 , B 11 , C 12 , C 13 , N 14 , O 16 , F 19 , Ne 20 , Al 27 , A 40 and Ca 40 . These spectra were observed with a 10 cm liquid hydrogen bubble chamber. Cross sections at 0° were obtained for a neutron energy range of 5 to 35 MeV. Graphs of all spectra are shown and new energy levels given when indicated within the resolution of the bubble chamber (about 1 MeV).
Long-term adjustment to work-related low back pain: associations with socio-demographics, claim processes, and post-settlement adjustment.

Objective. Predict long-term adjustment (pain intensity, pain-related catastrophizing, and pain-related disability) from socio-demographic, claim process, and post-settlement adjustment variables in a cohort of 374 Workers' Compensation low back claimants. Methods. Age- and gender-matched subsamples of African Americans and Caucasians were randomly selected for long-term follow-up (6 years post-settlement) from a larger, existing cohort of Workers' Compensation low back claimants in Missouri. Computer-assisted telephone interviews were used to assess pain, catastrophizing, and disability. Path analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to predict long-term adjustment from socio-demographic variables (race, gender, age, and socioeconomic status), Workers' Compensation claim process variables (surgery, diagnosis, claim duration, treatment costs, settlement awards, and disability rating), and adjustment at baseline. Results. Poorer long-term adjustment (higher levels of pain, catastrophizing, and pain-related disability) was significantly predicted by relatively poorer adjustment at baseline, lower socioeconomic status, and African American race. African American race associations were also mediated through lower socioeconomic status. Higher levels of occupational disability, as measured by long-term rates of unemployment and social security disability, were also predicted by African American race (in addition to age and claim process factors). Conclusion. Long-term adjustment to low back pain in this cohort of Workers' Compensation claimants was stable, relative to short-term adjustment soon after settlement. Long-term adjustment was worse for people of lower socioeconomic status, particularly for economically disadvantaged African Americans, suggesting the possibility of race- and class-based disparities in the Workers' Compensation system.