cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DNA scaffold supports long-lived vibronic coherence in an indodicarbocyanine (Cy5) dimer

Vibronic coupling between pigment molecules is believed to prolong coherences in photosynthetic pigment–protein complexes. Reproducing long-lived coherences using vibronically coupled chromophores in synthetic DNA constructs presents a biomimetic route to efficient artificial light harvesting. Here, we present two-dimensional (2D) electronic spectra of one monomeric Cy5 construct and two dimeric Cy5 constructs (0 bp and 1 bp between dyes) on a DNA scaffold and perform beating frequency analysis to interpret observed coherences. Power spectra of quantum beating signals of the dimers reveal high frequency oscillations that correspond to coherences between vibronic exciton states. Beating frequency maps confirm that these oscillations, 1270 cm−1 and 1545 cm−1 for the 0-bp dimer and 1100 cm−1 for the 1-bp dimer, are coherences between vibronic exciton states and that these coherences persist for ∼300 fs. Our observations are well described by a vibronic exciton model, which predicts the excitonic coupling strength in the dimers and the resulting molecular exciton states. The energy spacing between those states closely corresponds to the observed beat frequencies. MD simulations indicate that the dyes in our constructs lie largely internal to the DNA base stacking region, similar to the native design of biological light harvesting complexes. Observed coherences persist on the timescale of photosynthetic energy transfer yielding further parallels to observed biological coherences, establishing DNA as an attractive scaffold for synthetic light harvesting applications.
FedAir: Towards Multi-hop Federated Learning Over-the-Air

Federated learning (FL) has emerged as a key technology for enabling next-generation AI at scale. The classical FL systems use single-hop cellular links to deliver the local models from mobile workers to edge routers that then reach the remote cloud servers via high-speed Internet core for global model averaging. Due to the cost-efficiency, wireless multi-hop networks have been widely exploited to build communication backbones. Therefore, enabling FL over wireless multi-hop networks can make it accessible in a low-cost manner to everyone (e.g., under-developed areas and disaster sites). Wireless multi-hop FL, however, suffers from profound communication constraints including noisy and interference-rich wireless links, which results in slow and nomadic FL model updates. To address this, we suggest novel machine learning-enabled wireless multi-hop FL framework, namely FedAir, that can greatly mitigate the adverse impact of wireless communications on FL performance metrics such as model convergence time. This will allow us to fast prototype, deploy, and evaluate FL algorithms over ML-enabled, programmable wireless router (ML-router). The experiments on the deployed testbed validate and show that wireless multi-hop FL framework can greatly accelerate the runtime convergence speed of the de-facto FL algorithm, FedAvg.
Feasibility of a Commercially Available Virtual Reality System to Achieve Exercise Guidelines in Youth With Spina Bifida: Mixed Methods Case Study.

Background: Access to physical activity among youth with spina bifida (SB) is much lower than it is for children without disability. Enjoyable home-based exercise programs are greatly needed. Objective: Our objective is to examine the feasibility of a virtual reality (VR) active video gaming system (ie, bundle of consumer-available equipment) to meet US physical activity guidelines in two youth with SB. Methods: Two youth with SB—a 12-year-old female and a 13-year-old male; both full-time wheelchair users—participated in a brief, 4-week exercise program using a popular VR head-mounted display: Oculus Quest (Facebook Technologies). The system included a Polar H10 (Polar Canada) Bluetooth heart rate monitor, a no-cost mobile phone app (VR Health Exercise Tracker [Virtual Reality Institute of Health and Exercise]), and 13 games. The intervention protocol was conducted entirely in the homes of the participants due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The VR system was shipped to participants and they were instructed to do their best to complete 60 minutes of moderate-intensity VR exercise per day. Exercise duration, intensity, and calories expended were objectively monitored and recorded during exercise using the heart rate monitor and a mobile app. Fatigue and depression were measured via self-report questionnaires at pre- and postintervention. Participants underwent a semistructured interview with research staff at postintervention. Results: Across the intervention period, the total average minutes of all exercise performed each week for participants 1 and 2 were 281 (SD 93) and 262 (SD 55) minutes, respectively. The total average minutes of moderate-intensity exercise performed per week for participants 1 and 2 were 184 (SD 103) (184/281, 65.4%) and 215 (SD 90) (215/262, 82.1%) minutes, respectively. One participant had a reduction in their depression score, using the Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders (Neuro-QoL) test, from baseline to postintervention, but no other changes were observed for fatigue and depression scores. Participants reported that the amount of exercise they completed was far higher than what was objectively recorded, due to usability issues with the chest-worn heart rate monitor. Participants noted that they were motivated to exercise due to the enjoyment of the games and VR headset as well as support from a caregiver. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that two youth with SB who used wheelchairs could use a VR system to independently and safely achieve exercise guidelines at home. Study findings identified a promising protocol for promoting exercise in this population and this warrants further examination in future studies with larger samples.
Advances in the Genetics and Genomics of Heart Failure

The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the recent advances in the genetics and genomics of dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure. Over the last decade, the approach to the discovery of the genetic contribution to heart failure has evolved from investigation of rare variants implicated in Mendelian cardiomyopathies through linkage studies and candidate gene studies to the exploration of the contribution of common variants through large-scale genome-wide association and genome-first studies. The combination and integration of multiple of case-control heart failure cohorts, refinement of the heart failure phenotype, and utilization of large biobanks linked to electronic health records have advanced the understanding of the heritability of heart failure.
Reticulate evolution is favoured in influenza niche switching.

Reticulate evolution is thought to accelerate the process of evolution beyond simple genetic drift and selection, helping to rapidly generate novel hybrids with combinations of adaptive traits. However, the long-standing dogma that reticulate evolutionary processes are likewise advantageous for switching ecological niches, as in microbial pathogen host switch events, has not been explicitly tested. We use data from the influenza genome sequencing project and a phylogenetic heuristic approach to show that reassortment, a reticulate evolutionary mechanism, predominates over mutational drift in transmission between different host species. Moreover, as host evolutionary distance increases, reassortment is increasingly favored. We conclude that the greater the quantitative difference between ecological niches, the greater the importance of reticulate evolutionary processes in overcoming niche barriers.
Ethics for Cultural and Community Applications of Behavioral Science

Applications of behavior science to cultural and community phenomena often involve large-scale change aimed to address issues of social importance. Behavior scientists working in these areas face challenges that go beyond the currently adopted professional compliance code for practicing behavior analysts, the Code of Ethics adopted by the Association for Behavior Analysis International, and the other professional ethical codes many behavior scientists are guided by (e.g., American Psychological Association, the National Association of School Psychologists, etc.). One example of these challenges pertains to simply identifying the problem that needs to be addressed. This process requires collaboration with multiple stakeholders who may have differing values and concerns. A second example is evident in the process of identifying, selecting, and implementing interventions. This requires a sophisticated, culturally flexible repertoire and unique engagement skills that ensure that the perspectives, morals, and values of all members of the target community are considered and embraced in the recommended practices resulting from extensive collaboration. This chapter explores the aspirational values and key repertoires necessary for navigating the nuances confronting behavior scientists working in cultural and community settings to address significant social issues.
Preemptive VAE-An Important Tool for Managing Blood Loss in MVT Candidates With PMT.

Explantation of native viscera in multivisceral transplant candidates, particularly in those with extensive portomesenteric thrombosis (PMT), carries considerable morbidity due to extensive vascularized adhesions. Preemptive visceral angioembolization has been previously described as a technique to minimize excessive blood loss during mobilization of the native viscera but is not well described specifically in patients with extensive PMT. Methods In a series of 5 patients who underwent mutivisceral transplant for PMT from June 2015 to November 2018, we performed preoperative superior mesenteric, splenic, and hepatic artery embolization to reduce blood loss during explanation and evaluated the blood loss and blood product utilization, as well as 30-day rates of infectious complications. Results Following preemptive embolization, median total blood loss was 6000 mL (range 800-7000 mL). The median transfusion requirements were as follows: 16 units packed red blood cells (range 2-47), 14 units fresh frozen plasma (range 0-29), 2 units cryoprecipitate (range 1-14), 4 units platelets (range 2-10), and 500 mL cell saver autotransfusion (range 0-1817). In the first 30 postoperative days, 2 out of 5 patients developed positive blood cultures and 3 out of 5 developed complex intra-abdominal infections. Two patients developed severe graft pancreatitis resulting in mycotic aneurysm of the aortic conduit; bleeding from the aneurysm led to 1 patient mortality. Conclusions Preoperative embolization is an effective modality to mitigate exsanguinating blood loss during multivisceral transplant in patients with portomesenteric thrombosis; however, it is unclear if the resultant native organ ischemia during explant carries clinically relevant consequences.
Alzheimer’s Disease among American Minority Populations: An Ecological Exploratory Study

A significant public health concern with regards to increasing rates of Alzheimer’s is that it disproportionately affects minority groups in the United States. The present ecological exploratory study uses secondary aggregate data from the fifty United States in the year of 2019. The purpose of this study was to address the disparities in Alzheimer’s in minority populations in the US and explore associated factors. The “minority” populations considered were African American and Hispanic populations, and the “majority” population was referred to as “white”. The data were extracted from the United States Census Bureau, the CDC National Center for Health Statistics, and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Dataset. The prevalence rates of Alzheimer’s disease are greatest in both older Hispanic (12.2%) and African Americans (13.8%), compared to older whites (10.3%) in the investigated time period. Our results showed that being over 65 years old (p=.009), with a below-average ($62,843) median household income (p=.024), history of stroke (p=.029), and being a part of the Hispanic population (p=.036), were significantly associated with Alzheimer’s mortality rates in the United States. By identifying disparities in access to Alzheimer’s healthcare and at-risk communities, more comprehensive intervention strategies can be developed to promote change and advocate for more Alzheimer’s education and resource allocation for minority populations.
The impacts of inclusive and exclusive taxes on healthy eating: An experimental study

Abstract Based on a laboratory experiment conducted with 131 adults (non-students subjects), we empirically examine the differential impacts of an inclusive and exclusive tax on changing consumers’ eating behavior. We compare the caloric and nutrient content of the meals selected by the subjects using a difference-in-difference regression model to determine the efficacy of the policy treatments. The results indicate that an inclusive tax has a significantly stronger effect on reducing the consumption of total calories, calories from fat, and the intake of carbohydrates, cholesterol, sugar and sodium compared with an exclusive tax.
Plating Isolation of Various Catalase-Negative Microorganisms from Soil

A unique plating procedure was developed that allows isolation, but not enumeration, of representatives of the catalase-negative soil microflora. The numbers recovered, however, are low as compared to the numbers recovered when the modified dilution-to-extinction isolation procedure is used. The latter procedure provides prolonged inoculation in sealed tubes containing a nutritionally rich broth medium over small submerged agar slants. In contrast, the plating procedure utilizes nutritionally minimal media and the shorter incubations mandated by the inherent problems associated with plating.
A new method for estimating growth rates of alkenone‐producing haptophytes

National Science Foundation grants OCE-9986306 and OCE-0094637 (B.N.P., R.R.B., E.A.L.), OCE-0094272 (B.N.P.), OCE-9986306 and OCE-0094329 (F.G.P.). SOEST contribution no. 6738.
Essay: Islamic Flextime

Islamic flextime is derived from a divine decree that convenience is the organizing principle of cosmic construction. Rigid temporal frameworks restrict freedom and may even impede human happiness, social harmony, and economic efficiency. This essay explains the foundation of Islamic temporality. Islam teaches that human beings can use temporality but they have no control over time, just as they can benefit from sunlight but cannot conquer the sun. A flexible notion of temporality facilitates the performance of obligations, without repudiating the core concepts of punctuality and time commitments. Islamic flextime is an accommodation principle that respects individual needs and mitigates personal hardships. The essay associates Islamic flextime with creative dreaming and inter-generational exegesis of divine texts. Creative dreaming is possible because the human mind can freely mix and match times and places to construct novel combinations. Inter-generational exegesis repudiates originalism rooted in fixed temporality and empowers each new generation to receive and interpret divine texts.
Chapter 50 State-space models

Abstract This chapter reviews the usefulness of the Kalman filter for parameter estimation and inference about unobserved variables in linear dynamic systems. Applications include exact maximum likelihood estimation of regressions with ARMA disturbances, time-varying parameters, missing observations, forming an inference about the public's expectations about inflation, and specification of business cycle dynamics. The chapter also reviews models of changes in regime and develops the parallel between such models and linear state-space models. The chapter concludes with a brief discussion of alternative approaches to nonlinear filtering.
Thickness measurement of ultra-thin gate dielectrics under inversion condition

Accurate measurement of inversion thickness is essential in ULSI technology for development and control of ultra-thin gate dielectric processes. However, the accuracy of the measurement can be severely affected by the high gate leakage current and series resistance. This paper presents a methodology to reduce the measurement error by optimizing the ac modulation frequency and test device structures.
Stochastic design using cross-validated nonparametric meta-modelling techniques

This study adopts the quantile performance measures that address stochastic uncertainties in CAE modelling and simulations to support design decision-making. Two nonparametric meta-modelling techniques are introduced in conjunction with a uniform sampling scheme to approximate nonlinear CAE model input/output relationships. An integrated stochastic design framework that facilitates practical applications of time-consuming CAE simulations is described. A vehicle restraint system example is used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework and the enabling techniques.
Is there predictive value in water computer simulations

Abstract There are hardly more important and less understood liquids than liquid water and aqueous solutions. The description of the thermodynamics and kinetics of uniform and, especially, non-uniform aqueous systems is the central problem of contemporary liquid state chemical physics with important applications in biochemistry, electrochemistry, industrial chemistry and geophysics. The importance of water and aqueous solutions explains the interest in their description by computer simulation methods such as Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics. We discuss the actual question of the limits of applicability of currently popular computational models. It is stressed that hydrogen bonding, one of the most important interactions in nature, cannot be quantitatively described in the framework of empirical potential models.
Management of cytogenetic data in multi-center leukemia trials

Abstract This paper provides methods for storing and retrieving cytogenetics data, which must reside jointly in a reference laboratory and in a data co-ordinating center. The major piece of data is the character string that uses the International System for Human Cytogenetic Nomenclature. Simple and complex data retrieval, using Statistical Analysis System (SAS) functions INDEX and SUBSTR, are illustrated. Use of the methods of this paper can save considerable costs in setting up cytogenetic data systems compared with other proposed systems which have come to the author's attention.
Design, Characterization, and Optimization of a Broadband Mini Exposure Chamber for Studying Catecholamine Release From Chromaffin Cells Exposed to Microwave Radiation: Finite-Difference Time-Domain Technique

A free-space in vitro exposure system for identifying specific microwave (MW) parameters in the frequency range of 1-6 GHz that can induce nonthermal effects on exocytosis, which is the process by which neurotransmitter release occurs, has been designed, constructed, characterized, and optimized. The exposure system is placed within an anechoic chamber and incorporates continuous online monitoring of basal and stimulated catecholamine release from cultured bovine adrenal-medullary chromaffin cells, which are well-established models of neural-type cells. The cells are immobilized inside a cell-perfusion apparatus (CPA) and are continuously superfused with temperature-controlled balanced salt solution, with the entire CPA placed within a mini exposure chamber (MEC) constructed out of a MW-absorbing material. All relevant equipment for carrying out the experiments is shielded from the MW field by being housed in an aluminum conductor box located behind the MEC. Detailed distributions of the electric field and the specific absorption rate (SAR) at the location of the cells within the MEC were computed using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. FDTD computations were also used for optimizing the exposure system, so that the highest intensity of electric field could be delivered under dynamic temperature control and with an acceptable degree of field homogeneity (to within 30%) over the entire frequency range of 1-6 GHz. A major finding is that maintaining an acceptable level of homogeneity of the electric field and SAR for exposing cells to 1-6 GHz MW fields requires a different distribution of the cells within the CPA for exposures carried out at the lower versus the higher end of the frequency range of interest
Special Session on Emerging Issues in Image Fusion

Multisensor data fusion is an area of great interest in the research community. Investigations into multisensor fusion at the signal, image, feature, and symbol/decision levels (also called distributed detection) of representation are all popular. Signal-level fusion refers to the direct combination of several signals in order to provide a signal that has the same general format as the source signals. Our focus here is on image-level fusion (called image fusion here), which generates a fused image in which each pixel is determined from a set of pixels in each source image. The fused image should contain a better view of the scene than do any of the source images, thus improving computer or human interpretation. It is worth noting that image-level fusion, or image fusion, is closely related to signal-level fusion since an image can be considered a two-dimensional signal. In recent years, image fusion has been attracting a large amount of attention in a wide variety of applications such as concealed weapon detection, remote sensing, intelligent robots, medical diagnosis, defect inspection, and military surveillance. This special session will focus on what we feel are the most important emerging issues in image fusion as given by the following papers (full papers were sent directly to the conference).
On orthogonal orthomorphisms of cyclic and non-abelian groups

Abstract We prove that if m >3 is odd and not divisible by 9 then we can construct a pair of orthogonal orthomorphisms of Z m . From this we derive new lower bounds on the number of pairwise orthogonal orthomorphisms of classes of dihedral groups of doubly even order, and classes of linear groups.
Solution Scattering and FRET Studies on Nucleosomes Reveal DNA Unwrapping Effects of H3 and H4 Tails

Using a combination of small-angle x-ray scattering and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) measurements we have determined the role of the H3 and H4 histone tails independently in stabilizing nucleosomes and the extent to which the terminal ends of DNA unwrap from the nucleosome core. We have reconstructed solution scattering envelopes for recombinant wild-type, H3 and H4 tail-removed mutants and fit all scattering data with predictions from PDB models. Based on these data combined with FRET results, we found that while all nucleosomes exhibited DNA unwrapping, the extent of this unwrapping was increased for nucleosomes with the H3 tails removed but decreased in nucleosomes with the H4 tails removed. Studies of salt concentration effects showed small (compared to tail effects) but noticeable effects as a function of monovalent ions. These global and local structural data are instrumental in improving our understanding of the role of the H3 and H4 tails and the role of monovalent ions in determining DNA accessibility of nucleosomes.
The terminal sequences of Bombyx mori 18S ribosomal RNA

The 5' and 3' terminal T1 oligonucleotides of 32p-labelled B. mori 18S ribosomal RNA were isolated by a two dimensional electrophoretic (diagonal) technique. Nucleotide sequence analysis showed that the 3' terminal fragment, (G)AUCAUUAOH, is identical to that previously obtained from the 18S rRNA of several other eukaryotic species. The sequence of the B. mori 5' terminal fragment is pUCCUCG.
Omeprazole inhibits growth of cancer cell line of colonic origin

The direct effects of omeprazole on colonic cells has not been evaluated. Controversy exists regarding the potential adverse effects of omeprazole on cell proliferation. In order to mimic thein vivo situation in the patient treated with omeprazole, proliferation cell culture experiments were performed, monitoring directly the effects of gastrin and omeprazole both alone and in combination. Three colonic cancer cell lines were used, two with neuroendocrine features (NCI-H716, LCC-18) and one (DLD-1) not known to have these features. In thesein vitro proliferation experiments, only the NCI-H716 colorectal cancer cell line responded to omeprazole by decreased proliferation (P<0.05). The effect was concentration dependent shown for all doses of omeprazole used. Gastrin had a statistically significant effect on increasing proliferation in the NCI-H716 cell line alone but only at the highest concentration (10−6M). Omeprazole has a cytostatic effect on one of three colorectal cancer cell lines but the mechanism for this effect of omeprazole and its potential role in treatment awaits elucidation.
NS-3, a TRH analog, reverses repeated ECS-induced deficits in water maze performance in the rat

Abstract Rats given five consecutive daily electroconvulsive shock (ECS) treatments and trained to run in the Morris water maze, starting three days posttreatment, showed deficits in learning and memory functions. Treatment before each training session with the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) analog NS-3 [(CG-3703), (3R),(6R)-6-methyl-5-oxo-3-thiomorphorinyl-histidyl-l-prolinamide tetrahydrate] reversed these behavioral deficits. The possible use of TRH and its analogs as therapeutic treatment for the cognitive dysfunctions resulting from electroconvulsive shock treatment for depression and the possible involvement of central cholinergic systems in the cognitive dysfunctions are discussed.
The vibrational spectra of the metalloporphins: A normal coordinate analysis of the planar vibrations in the Cu‐chelates of porphin, porphin‐d4 (meso), 1:3:5:7‐tetramethyl porphin and 1:2:3:4:5:6:7:8‐octamethyl porphin

Normal coordinate calculations have been carried out for all the planar vibrations of Cuporphin, Cu-porphin-d4 (meso), Cu-1:2:3:4:5:6:7:8-octamethyl porphin and Cu-1:3:5:7-tetramethyl porphin. A method is presented to obtain the skeleton deformation and the CC stretching force constants in large organic molecules with delocalized double bonds from the bond length values. This method enabled a satisfactory calculation of 160 observed frequencies in the resonance Raman and infrared spectra of the four Cu-porphins by using a valance force field containing only 12 independent parameters. Assignments for some of the stronger bands in the resonance Raman spectra of heme proteins and metallo-porphins are discussed.
Expression of insulin and insulin-like growth factor receptors and binding proteins by retinal pigment epithelium.

Abstract Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) I and II are mitogenic polypeptides structurally homologous to insulin, which are thought to mediate important neurobiologic actions in the CNS. The purpose of this study was to determine if cultured bovine retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) express IGF receptors and secrete soluble IGF binding proteins, and to characterize these receptors and binding proteins. We also characterized the soluble IGF binding proteins present in juvenile and adult rat vitreous and serum, as well as those in fetal bovine vitreous and serum, in order to facilitate identification of the RPE IGF binding protein, and to determine potential destinations for this protein once produced. Affinity labeling was used to characterize insulin, IGF-I and IGF-II receptors. Western radioligand blotting and immunoprecipitation were used to characterize IGF binding proteins. We found that RPE cells in culture express virtually no insulin receptors, and only modest amounts of IGF-I receptors. IGF-II receptors were abundantly expressed. Additionally, RPE cells secrete a soluble IGF binding protein which is immunologically related to IGFBP-2, the primary IGF binding protein produced in the central nervous system. Bovine vitreous was found to contain a mixture of IGF binding proteins (IGFBP). The most prominent IGFBP in this mixture is immunologically related to IGFBP-2. Likewise, juvenile and adult rat vitreous contained only one IGF binding protein that was shown to be immunologically related to IGFBP-2. Juvenile rat vitreous contained more binding activity corresponding to IGFBP-2 than did adult vitreous, suggesting developmental regulation. These data suggest that IGFs and their binding proteins may have important, and as yet undefined, roles in retinal neurophysiology.
A thermal-gradient chamber for small animals, with digital output.

This instrument provides 4 channels with a thermal gradient from 0 to 40°C for the free movement of subject animals through gates at 2°C intervals. Positions are recorded automatically (±1°C) as digital punch-tape output at 5-min intervals.
Children's health and child-parent relationships as predictors of problem-drinking mothers' and fathers' long-term adaptation.

Abstract This study examined the extent to which children's health status and child–parent relationships affected the severity of problem-drinking parents' alcohol use disorders, as well as the parents' psychological states and marital stressors and resources. These issues were examined using data from an 8-year study of problem-drinking women and men. Generally, over the 8-year period, the children of alcoholic mothers and fathers were comparable on their health status and relationships with their parents. The severity of mothers' and fathers' drinking problems were also generally comparable over this period. Better children's health and child–parent relationships at baseline and 1- and 3-year follow-ups were consistent predictors of mothers' reduced drinking and better psychological states on the subsequent follow-ups. Associations between children's functioning and fathers' adaptation were few and inconsistent. The results support the possibility that an undesirable cycle might be established in which maternal drinking and children's dysfunction coexist in an ever worsening reciprocal relationship.
The case of here and there

This case relates to individual decision making. Ranan is the main figure. He is concerned with the kind of person he is or wants to be, and the kinds of actions or choices that will facilitate that self realization. Sodaily, he is comfortable with his native land, but professionally he is much better off in the U.S. where he received his higher education. No matter what he does, there is a price to be paid. He has to make a decision in this regard. The reader is invited to engage in the decision making process.
Split-liver transplantation: coming of age.

Objective To identify predictors of graft and recipient survival from a single-institution series of in situ split-liver transplantations and compare outcomes to living donor and whole organs for adults and children. Summary Background Data Split-liver transplantation is a surgical technique that creates 2 allografts from a single cadaver donor. We have applied split-liver transplantation to all indications and categories of medical urgency for initial as well as retransplantation to expand the current donor pool and decrease reliance upon living donation. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted of 100 consecutive in situ split-liver transplantations yielding a left lateral segment and right trisegment graft that were performed at the University of California Los Angeles between 9/91 and 02/03. These 100 transplantations generated 190 allografts for transplantation into 105 children and 60 adults, with the sharing of 25 allografts among transplant centers across the United States. Outcomes and incidence of complications were compared with living donor and whole organ recipients receiving liver transplantation during the same time period with independent predictors of split-liver graft and recipient survival identified by multivariate analysis. Results The incidence of biliary and vascular complications observed in recipients of left lateral segment grafts created by split-liver transplantation was not statistically different from recipients of left lateral segment grafts created from living donation or children receiving whole-organ grafts from pediatric donors. Kaplan-Meier survival estimations of left lateral segment graft and recipient survival also demonstrated no statistical difference among split-liver, living donor, and whole-organ recipients. Right trisegment grafts from split-liver transplantation demonstrated a 10% incidence of biliary and 7% incidence of vascular complications. Long-term graft function was excellent with patient and graft survival equal to 1086 recipients of cadaver whole-organ grafts from donors ages 10–40 years who underwent transplant operations during the same time period. Predictors of split-liver transplantation graft and recipient survival included United Network for Organ Sharing status at transplantation, indication, occurrence of a complication, donor creatinine, and donor length of hospitalization. Conclusions Split-liver transplantation is an effective mechanism for immediate expansion of the cadaver donor pool that can reduce dependence upon living donation in adults and children. (Ann Surg 2003;238:496–507).
9-Cis-retinoic acid : a direct-acting dysmorphogen

Abstract Experiments in vitro with cultured rat conceptuses demonstrated that 9- cis -retinoic and acid (9- cis -RA) (300 ng/mL amniotic fluid) produced branchial arch and somite defects similar to those elicited by equal concentrations of all trans -retinoic acid (all- trans -RA), but with an increase in cephalic defects that included missing optic vesicles. After conceptuses were intraamniotically microinjected with 600 ng 9- cis -RA/mL amniotic fluid on day 10 of gestation, an unusual heart defect also observed. HPLC analyses indicated that 9- cis -RA readily underwent conversion to the less active metabolite, 13- cis -retinoic (13- cis -RA), in cultured conceptuses during the first 4 hr after treatment but only after 6 hr could elevated levels of the potent dysmorphogen all- cis -RA be detecte. In separate experiments. conversion of 13- cis -RA or of all- trans -RA to 9- cis -RA could not be detected during a 6-hr embryo culture period. Endogenous levels 9- cis -RA in whole rat embryos also were below limits of detection but small quantities of this isomer could be detected in neonatal rat eye and human embryonic brain. Our present study strongly suggests that 9- cis -RA is a direct-acting dysmorhogen with probable specific target sites of action.
A comment on: Geetha K K and Archary K K (2000)

(2001). A comment on: Geetha K K and Archary K K (2000) Journal of the Operational Research Society: Vol. 52, No. 1, pp. 122-123.
Rapid determination of dissolved copper in jet fuels using bathocuproine

To meet the need for a portable field test kit for the accurate determination of trace levels of dissolved copper in jet fuel, a spectrophotometric-based approach has been developed. A combination of a metal complexation ligand (bathocuproine), reducing agent (ascorbic acid), and solubilizing agent (ethanol) is introduced directly to jet fuel samples emanating from a number of different sources and handling histories, and the total copper content is accurately determined. The detection limits, based on a signal/noise ratio of 3:1, were 6.2 μg/L with a benchtop dual beam spectrophotometer and 7.5 μg/L with a portable, fiber optic spectrometer. Since bathocuproine, itself, has some reducing capability, the concentration of Cu(I) in these jet fuels could not be differentiated from the concentration of Cu(II).
Thermocalc and experimental modelling of melting of pelite, Morton Pass, Wyoming

Calculated results using thermocalc for melting of pelitic compositions are compared with the results of experimental melting of pelite from Morton Pass, Wyoming, USA. The experiments were carried out at 1, 2 and 3.5 kbar, dominantly at 2 kbar. For experimental charges with (‘wet’) and without (‘dry’) added H2O, the agreement is good. This is true for the compositions without added H2O, in which liquid first appears with the production of orthopyroxene at ∼800 °C, and for the runs with added H2O, in which melting begins at ∼700 °C, and continues, with the appearance of orthopyroxene between 780 and 800 °C at 2 kbar. The compositions of melts are also compared: the comparison is generally good, except in the modelling of wet runs below ∼780 °C, where the calculated values for FeO and MgO are about one-tenth of the already low analytical values, and in somewhat low calculated values of Al2O3 compared to the analytical data. A quantitative model to illustrate melting of pelite at Morton Pass is calculated, giving T–X(H2O) conditions for the observed sets of natural assemblages, along with the reactions at and near the beginning of melting.
Avimers hold their own.

Antibody surrogates based on a class of human receptor domains bind protein targets with high affinity.
A developmental investigation of children's imaginary companions.

Twelve 4-year-olds with imaginary companions (ICs) and 15 without ICs were asked to describe and pretend to interact with the IC or a real friend. Children with ICs readily described them and were more willing than children without ICs to pretend the IC or real friend was in the lab. Children were interviewed about 7 months later, and the IC descriptions were as stable as the descriptions of real friends. Children with and without ICs did not differ in their ability to distinguish fantasy and reality, but IC children were more likely to hold an imaginary object instead of substituting a body part when performing a pretend action and were more likely to engage in fantasy in a free-play session
Chiral NMR discrimination of piperidines and piperazines using (18-crown-6)-2,3,11,12-tetracarboxylic acid.

Enantiomeric discrimination is observed in the 1H and 13C NMR spectra of piperidines and piperazines in the presence of (−)-(18-crown-6)-2,3,11,12-tetracarboxylic acid. The amines are protonated by the carboxylic acid groups of the crown ether to produce the corresponding ammonium and carboxylate ions. Association of the ammonium ion with the crown ether likely involves two hydrogen bonds with the crown ether oxygen atoms and an ion pair with the carboxylate anion. Methyl, hydroxymethyl, phenyl, carboxyl, pyridyl, and cyclohexyl substituent groups α to the nitrogen atom do not inhibit binding of the ammonium ion to the crown ether. The NMR spectra of piperidines with the stereogenic center α or β to the nitrogen atom exhibit substantial enantiomeric discrimination. Dibasic substrates such as the piperizines are likely converted to their diprotonated form in the presence of the crown ether, and both nitrogen atoms appear to associate with the crown ether moiety.
Design and Problem Solving in Technology Education

Do technological design and problem-solving activities appeal to all students? Must everyone possess the skills of designers, engineers, and technicians? The answer to these questions is clearly “no.” But it is clear that technological literacy is becoming an important part of preparation for Living in a technological world. What's more, design and problem-solving activities provide a useful mechanism for engaging student interest, integrating learning, and developing basic habits of mind.
Can’t see the forest because of the trees

The critique by Wicherts, Borsboom, and Dolan misses the Big Picture provided by Richard Lynn in assembling national IQs and by J. Philippe Rushton in developing an evolutionary life history theory of race differences in brain size and intelligence. Their perspectives seem correct in essentials although may prove wrong in particulars. I provide evidence in their favor and also defend my own research on the importance of skin color as a correlate of IQ.
Effects of insulin-like growth factor-I on cultured human coronary artery smooth muscle cells

The growth-promoting effects of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) appear to be different in vascular smooth muscle cells from various segments of the arterial tree. Little information exists on human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (CoSMC), the primary elements of coronary atherosclerosis and post-angioplasty restenosis. In this study we determined the effects of IGF-I on cultured human CoSMC. Type I IGF receptors (IGF-R) were present on CoSMC as assessed by affinity cross-linking of 125I-IGF-I to monolayer cultures. IGF-I was a weak mitogen, 1.5-fold increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation, for CoSMC. However, IGF-I had a potent motility effect on CoSMC with a 314+/-12% increase in cell migration (P<0.001), comparable to that of 5% FBS. IGF-I-stimulated motility was partially inhibited by alphaIR-3, a specific IGF-R inhibitor (P<0.05). Addition of kistrin, a disintegrin, or LM609, a specific alpha(V)beta(3) integrin neutralizing antibody, abolished IGF-I-stimulated migration (P<0.001). This study indicates that IGF-I is a potent motility agent for human CoSMC via the alpha(V)beta(3) integrin receptor, but exerts little mitogenic effect. Because CoSMC migration plays a crucial role in atherosclerosis and restenosis, IGF-I blockade has the potential to limit lumen reduction.
Image compression via wavelets and row compression

This work exploits a stable row compression algorithm for decomposing a hierarchically or sequentially structured matrix to compress an n × n image represented by a wavelet transform. The multiresolution discrete wavelet transform is used to decompose an image. The row compression algorithm builds up a low rank approximation of the wavelet transform by applying orthogonal transformations and updating techniques. The cost is O(n2) operations.
Determination of Volatile Sulfur Compounds by Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry

Abstract Atomic fluorescence spectrometry is evaluated for the determination of volatile sulfur compounds. The detector is shown to exhibit very high tolerance for organic compounds which do not contain sulfur. A flow of 600 μg/sec of hexane into the hydrogen diffusion flame used as the atomizer did not produce a detectable signal itself, nor did it affect the fluorescence signal of 80 ng/sec of H2S. Atomic fluorescence was used to determine H2S and SO2 as they were sequentially volatilized from aqueous samples buffered with sodium ascorbate. The relative merits of the described spectrometer and of the more conventional flame photometric detector are considered for the determination of volatile sulfur compounds in complex matrices.
Functional brain networks and abnormal connectivity in the movement disorders

Abstract Clinical manifestations of movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and dystonia, arise from neurophysiological changes within the cortico-striato-pallidothalamocortical (CSPTC) and cerebello-thalamo-cortical (CbTC) circuits. Neuroimaging techniques that probe connectivity within these circuits can be used to understand how these disorders develop as well as identify potential targets for medical and surgical therapies. Indeed, network analysis of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) has identified abnormal metabolic networks associated with the cardinal motor symptoms of PD, such as akinesia and tremor, as well as PD-related cognitive dysfunction. More recent task-based and resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging studies have reproduced several of the altered connectivity patterns identified in these abnormal PD-related networks. A similar network analysis approach in dystonia revealed abnormal disease related metabolic patterns in both manifesting and non-manifesting carriers of dystonia mutations. Other multimodal imaging approaches using magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging in patients with primary genetic dystonia suggest abnormal connectivity within the CbTC circuits mediate the clinical manifestations of this inherited neurodevelopmental disorder. Ongoing developments in functional imaging and future studies in early patients are likely to enhance our understanding of these movement disorders and guide novel targets for future therapies.
Effect of Thermal History on the Properties of a Willemite Glass‐Ceramic

The effect of time and temperature on the properties and structure of a willemite glass-ceramic were measured. -0 polymorphs of willemite were found to exist in most of the glass-ceramics. Those properties of the glass-ceramic which depend primarily on the composition of the glassy phase (helium permeation and diffusion, and chemical durability) were found to be strong functions of the thermal history of the samples, whereas those properties which depend on both the compositions and the relative amounts of both the glassy and crystalline phases (thermal expansion coefficient, density, and refractive index) were found to be relatively insensitive to thermal history. The properties of the glass-ceramics could be described by simple mixing models using the properties measured for willemite and for glasses having theoretical residual glass compositions corresponding to varying degrees of crystallinity in the glass-ceramic.
Neuromuscular patterns in hemifacial microsomia

This study was designed to establish the extent of neuromuscular abnormalities in different types of hemifacial microsomia and to relate these findings to the existing skeletal malformations. Neuromuscular recruitment patterns were established in twenty-three normal subjects. These patterns served as baselines for comparison with recruitment patterns obtained from forty-eight subjects with hemifacial microsomia. The anterior and posterior temporalis, masseter, suprahyoid, buccinator, platysma, mentalis, and upper and lower lips were studied electromyographically. Consistent presence or absence of recruitment for a given task was considered a significant finding with which the hemifacial microsomia data were compared. The subjects with hemifacial microsomia were divided into five groups according to type of mandibular malformation. Abnormal recruitment was found in all recorded muscles except the lips, mentalis, and buccinator muscles. There were variations in recruitment patterns within each group as well as among the groups. A relationship was found between the development of the gonial angle area and the recorded masseter activity. Muscle activity was recorded in the area of the temporal muscle, even in the absence of a coronoid process. It was found that after insertion into a new coronoid process the temporal muscle developed mass and palpable contraction. This study shows that in persons with hemifacial microsomia certain neuromuscular patterns may differ from the norm because of missing or underdeveloped muscles and because of the different relationship between the mandible, its attached muscles, and other structures.
Promoting children’s agency and communication skills in an informal science program

The Partnerships for Informal Science Education in the Community (PISEC) program at the University of Colorado Boulder brings together university and community institutions to create an environment where K-12 students join with university educators to engage in inquiry-based scientific practices after school. In our original framing, these afterschool activities were developed to reinforce the traditional learning goals of the classroom, including mastering scientific content, skills and processes. Recently, the primary focus of the PISEC curriculum has been shifted towards the development of students’ scientific identity, an explicit objective of informal learning environments. The new curriculum offers students more activity choices, affords opportunities for scientific drawings and descriptions, and provides incentive for students to design their own experiments. We have analyzed student science notebooks from both old and new curricula and find that with the redesigned curriculum, students exhibit increased agency and more instances of scientific communication while still demonstrating substantial content learning gains.