cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reconciliation in domestic dogs (Canis familiaris): Evidence for the uncertainty reduction hypothesis

Abstract Reconciliation is well documented in a number of species, including nonhuman primates, dolphins, wolves, and many others. Researchers studied domestic dogs in a variety of natural and artificially-created packs. While each report some evidence of reconciliation, they found more dispersal than reconciliation occurred postconflict, with cohort relationships being a factor. In the present study, we observed which of three reconciliation theories best predicted observed behavior (Reconciled Hierarchy Hypothesis, Good Relationship Hypothesis, Uncertainty Reduction Hypothesis). We studied reconciliation in domestic dogs in a fluid, changing group of domestic dogs visiting a fenced two-acre dog park. In 72 one-hour sessions across eight months, 177 dogs were observed. There were 14 dyadic conflicts involving 21 dogs—eleven demonstrated postconflict reconciliation. During Baseline, Victims were significantly more affiliative than were Aggressors (F(1,20) = 15.67, p
Editorial Commentary: Aragonite-Based Implants for Osteochondral Defects—Could Coral Make Old Goats Run Again?

Abstract The population of patients with early arthritis remains a treatment challenge because of the specifics of their disease (diffuse chondrosis rather than focal defect, frequent associated morbidities such as instability or meniscal deficiency) and where they are in life (young, active, working). Too young with “not enough damage” for arthroplasty but frequently unresponsive to conservative care, they are in the midst of life yet functionally quite limited. The next generation of non-arthroplasty implants is being investigated to potentially bridge this treatment gap and provide relief for the ever-growing number of young patients with arthritis.
Center for Applied Humanities

The role and function of the Center for Applied Humanities at the University of South Florida is briefly discussed. Particular attention is given to programs relating literary perspectives to social and psychological problems.
Original ContributionsUtility of a rapid fecal latex agglutination test detecting the neutrophil protein, lactoferrin, for diagnosing inflammatory causes of chronic diarrhea

Objective: The utility of tests for fecal neutrophils in the setting of chronic diarrhea has not been established. The purpose of this study was to determine the causes of chronic diarrhea associated with fecal neutrophils. Methods: One fecal specimen from each of 10 normal subjects, 26 patients with known microscopic colitis, 13 with celiac sprue, eight with Crohn’s disease, four with ulcerative colitis, and 103 with chronic diarrhea of unknown origin, as well as 10 fecal specimens from a patient with chronic nongranulomatous enterocolitis were analyzed blindly for the presence of a neutrophil granule protein called lactoferrin using a commercial latex agglutination kit. Diagnostic evaluation of the 103 patients with chronic diarrhea was carried out to determine the diagnostic accuracy of this test for chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Results: None of the normal control subjects, three of 39 patients with microscopic colitis or celiac sprue, all 10 specimens from the patient with enterocolitis, and all 12 control patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease had a positive fecal lactoferrin test. Eleven of 103 patients with chronic diarrhea presenting without a diagnosis had a positive test, and all were diagnosed with an inflammatory condition of the colon (five-, ulcerative colitis; four-, Crohn’s disease; one-, ischemic colitis; and one-, microscopic colitis). Only one patient with inflammatory bowel disease had a negative lactoferrin test. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the fecal lactoferrin test for ulcerative or Crohn’s colitis were 90%, 98%, 82%, and 99%, respectively. Conclusion: The major cause of fecal neutrophils in patients with chronic diarrhea is chronic inflammatory bowel disease of the colon. The latex agglutination test for fecal lactoferrin offers a highly sensitive, specific, and simple means for detection of fecal neutrophils in these patients.
Longitudinal relations between sleep and cognitive functioning in children: Self-esteem as a moderator.

Short and poor-quality sleep disrupt cognitive functioning, yet associations vary across studies, underscoring the importance of examining individual differences and moderators of risk. Utilizing a multi-method, two-wave longitudinal design, we examined self-esteem as a moderator of relations between actigraphy-derived sleep duration (minutes) and quality (efficiency, long-wake episodes) and children's cognitive functioning 1 year later. During the first study wave (T1), participants were 243 children (47% female) with a mean age of 10.4 years (SD = 8.0 months). The sample was representative of its community, with 37% identifying as Black/African American and 63% White/European American. Children completed a self-esteem measure and wore actigraphs for seven consecutive nights. Participants returned to the lab 1 year later and completed a standardized assessment of cognitive functioning. Results indicated that self-esteem moderated longitudinal associations between sleep quality and cognitive functioning. Specifically, children with both better sleep quality and higher self-esteem performed better relative to other children in the sample.
Trend in ABO-incompatible RBC transfusion-related fatalities reported to the FDA, 2000-2019.

BACKGROUND ABO-incompatible red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and acute hemolytic reactions occur infrequently, yet resultant fatalities are reported to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) every year. We describe a 20-year retrospective study of reported mistransfusion cases to identify temporal trends, common causes, and corrective actions taken to prevent recurrence. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS ABO-incompatible RBC transfusion-related fatalities reported to the FDA in 2000-2019 were reviewed for patient demographics, primary attributed cause, contributing factors, and corrective actions. RESULTS Eighty reported deaths after ABO-incompatible RBC transfusion occurred in the 20-year period. A decrease in the number of cases after 2008 was sustained through 2019 (mean 6 cases/y, 2000-2009 vs 2 cases/y, 2010-2019). The estimated rate of reported mistransfusion fatalities was 1 per 2 million RBC units transfused in 2000-2009 and 1 per 7.14 million RBC units in 2010-2019 (P < .0001). Administration errors (wrong patient or wrong unit transfused) and sample collection errors (wrong blood in tube [WBIT]) significantly decreased over time but remained the most common causes. In all WBIT cases, verification of patients' ABO type with a second sample or historical type was not performed before transfusion; 16 of 19 (84%) institutions that reported corrective actions subsequently instituted this requirement. In the other categories, 22 of 58 (38%) facilities reported plans for technological process improvements, such as electronic patient identification. CONCLUSIONS The rate of reported fatalities from ABO-incompatible RBC transfusion has significantly decreased in the past decade. Still, about two cases are reported each year, highlighting gaps in best practices and areas for improvement.
DMPK mRNA Expression in Human Brain Tissue Throughout the Lifespan.

Objective Myotonic dystrophy is a multisystem disorder caused by a trinucleotide repeat expansion on the myotonic dystrophy protein kinase (DMPK) gene. To determine whether wildtype DMPK expression patterns vary as a function of age, we analyzed DMPK expression in the brain from 99 donors ranging from 5 postconceptional weeks to 80 years old. Methods We used the BrainSpan messenger RNA sequencing and the Yale Microarray data sets, which included brain tissue samples from 42 and 57 donors, respectively. Collectively, donors ranged in age from 5 postconceptional weeks to 80 years old. DMPK expression was normalized for each donor across regions available in both data sets. Restricted cubic spline linear regression models were used to analyze the effects of log-transformed age and sex on normalized DMPK expression data. Results Age was a statistically significant predictor of normalized DMPK expression pattern in the human brain in the BrainSpan (p < 0.005) and Yale data sets (p < 0.005). Sex was not a significant predictor. Across both data sets, normalized wildtype DMPK expression steadily increases during fetal development, peaks around birth, and then declines to reach a nadir around age 10. Conclusions Peak expression of DMPK coincides with a time of dynamic brain development. Abnormal brain DMPK expression due to myotonic dystrophy may have implications for early brain development.
Is it safe to start steroids at home for a COPD exacerbation after virtual assessment in the COVID-19 era?

Yes. Corticosteroids are beneficial, and virtual visits are appropriate, especially in this pandemic.
Family Functioning in Pediatric Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE Children with some chronic health conditions experience family functioning difficulties. However, research examining family functioning in youth with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) has produced mixed results. Therefore, the current review critically synthesized the literature on family functioning among youth with FGIDs. METHODS A systematic search using pediatric, family functioning, and FGID search terms was conducted in PubMed, PsycInfo, and ProQuest. Out of the 586 articles initially identified, 17 studies met inclusion criteria. Studies were included if they presented original research in English, assessed family functioning, and the study sample consisted of children (0-18 years) diagnosed with a FGID. Quality assessment ratings were conducted for each included study based on a previously developed scientific merit 3-point rating system. RESULTS The majority of studies (n = 13) examined family functioning between youth with FGIDs and comparison groups. The remaining studies explored associations between family functioning and study variables (e.g., child psychosocial functioning and sociodemographic factors) and examined family functioning clusters among children with FGIDs. In general, children with FGIDs demonstrated poorer family functioning compared to healthy counterparts. Findings also suggested that child psychosocial functioning, disease characteristics, and sociodemographic factors were related to family functioning among youth with FGIDs. The average quality of studies was moderate (M = 2.3). CONCLUSIONS Maintaining healthy family functioning appears to be challenging for some families of children with FGIDs. Future research should explore the directionality of the relationship between family functioning and child physical and psychosocial outcomes to advance the understanding and treatment of pediatric FGIDs.
Chopped Cold Neutron Beam Activation Analysis

A linear fast neutron beam chopper has been deployed at a prompt gamma activation analysis instrument, enabling in-beam activation analysis of short-lived ( $T_{\mathrm {1/2}} > \sim 10$ ms) neutron capture products without the need for sample transfer. This article describes the design and operation of the chopper system and measurement results from test samples containing Se-77 ( $T_{\mathrm {1/2}} =17.36$ s) and Yb-175m ( $T_{\mathrm {1/2}} =0.0682$ s). The chopper timing was optimized for a specific isotope in each measurement, demonstrating an advantage of the programmable system. The linear response of the total gated counts in the decay phase to the incremented Se and Yb masses demonstrates the suitability of the system for quantitative analysis. Theoretical calculations based on the experimental parameters were in good agreement with the observed results. An example that illustrates the separation of overlapping energy peaks by the use of time-stamped list mode data acquisition is shown in a sample containing Yb-175m and Dy-165 ( $T_{\mathrm {1/2}} =75.4$ s).
Response to Salinity Challenge in Non-native Cichlid Fishes of the Genus Herichthys Introduced in the Gulf Coast Region of the United States

The Rio Grande Cichlid, Herichthys cyanoguttatus, is native to northeastern Mexico and southern Texas and has been introduced at many places in the US. Recent research has indicated that the true identity of at least some populations of Herichthys cf. cyanoguttatus in Louisiana is H. carpintis and not H. cyanoguttatus. In both their native and introduced ranges, H. carpintis seems to occupy a more lowland/coastal distribution than does Herichthys cyanoguttatus, suggesting that the two species may differ physiologically or ecologically in their ability to invade new environments. Previous research has found that Herichthys cf. cyanoguttatus from Louisiana (which were most likely H. carpintis) have a high tolerance to salinity and pose a threat to both fresh and brackish waters, but the osmoregulatory capacity of H. cyanoguttatus from Texas is unknown. To determine if H. cyanoguttatus from Texas might also have a high tolerance to salinity and pose a threat to both fresh and brackish waters, we performed three experiments to assess response to salinity challenges in H. cyanoguttatus from Texas and in H. carpintis from Louisiana. In response to acute moderate salinity challenge, we found a non-significant salinity*species interaction in change in body mass, a species difference in hematocrit, and no differences in plasma chloride or osmolality. In a 120-day chronic salinity exposure, salinity concentration was inversely related to growth rate, but there was no difference in growth between the two species. In an acute challenge, high salinity concentrations had a strong negative effect on survival, but survival was not different between the two species. Both species were highly tolerant of salinity, indicating that both species might be able to use brackish waters in coastal areas to expand their ranges in the US. Finally, we found that H. cyanoguttatus from Texas spent more time swimming than did H. carpintis from Louisiana, suggesting that the two species could differ in the way they interact behaviorally with native fish communities.
SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers widespread host mRNA decay leading to an mRNA export block.

The transcriptional induction of interferon (IFN) genes is a key feature of the mammalian antiviral response that limits viral replication and dissemination. A hallmark of severe COVID-19 disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 is the low presence of IFN proteins in patient serum despite elevated levels of IFN-encoding mRNAs, indicative of post-transcriptional inhibition of IFN protein production. Here, we performed single-molecule RNA visualization to examine the expression and localization of host mRNAs during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our data show that the biogenesis of type I and type III IFN mRNAs is inhibited at multiple steps during SARS-CoV-2 infection. First, translocation of the interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) transcription factor to the nucleus is limited in response to SARS-CoV-2, indicating that SARS-CoV-2 inhibits RLR-MAVS signaling and thus weakens transcriptional induction of IFN genes. Second, we observed that IFN mRNAs primarily localize to the site of transcription in most SARS-CoV-2 infected cells, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 either inhibits the release of IFN mRNAs from their sites of transcription and/or triggers decay of IFN mRNAs in the nucleus upon exiting the site of transcription. Lastly, nuclear-cytoplasmic transport of IFN mRNAs is inhibited during SARS-CoV-2 infection, which we propose is a consequence of widespread degradation of host cytoplasmic basal mRNAs in the early stages of SARS-CoV-2 replication by the SARS-CoV-2 Nsp1 protein, as wells as the host antiviral endoribonuclease, RNase L. Importantly, IFN mRNAs can escape SARS-CoV-2-mediated degradation if they reach the cytoplasm, making rescue of mRNA export a viable means for promoting the immune response to SARS-CoV-2.
Natural killer cells: alloreactive effects in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Background and Objectives Natural Killer (NK) cells are capable of recognizing target cells altered by pathologic states such as viral infection and malignant transformation. The NK cell’s capacity to recognize and kill abnormal cells while sparing normal cells relies on the integration of activating signals and tolerance to cells expressing self-MHC molecules. Our understanding of how NK receptors mediate these signals and control NK cell function has advanced to the point where models of NK biology can be tested and revised in the clinical setting of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Materials and Methods This review article highlights several of the seminal contributions to the field of NK biology and their relevance to allogeneic and autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation. Results and Conclusions Inhibitory NK receptors are critical for achieving tolerance to cells expressing self-MHC molecules and recognizing target cells lacking self-MHC class I molecules. Activating NK receptors can circumvent NK tolerance and directly signal activation. Both inhibitory and activating receptors play an important role in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation outcome for hematologic and solid tumors. Incorporation of NK receptor genotyping in donor selection algorithms may benefit recipients of both HLA-matched and -mismatched allografts.
Two-wavelength (visible/infrared) femtosecond spectroscopy of the dynamics of holes in GaAs

This paper reports results on the ultrafast dynamics of holes in GaAs measured using a recently developed broadly tunable femtosecond optical parametric oscillator. With this source it is possible to pump valence-to-conduction band transitions with visible pulses and probe the generated holes using mid-infrared pulses, which excite transitions between the heavy- or light-hole bands and the split-off band. The advantage of such a two-wavelength spectroscopic measurement is that both the pumping and the probing take place between a fully empty or fully occupied band and a band occupied by only the carriers of interest.
Why CEQA Exemption Decisions Need Additional Notice Requirements

Public agencies that exempt projects from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) are not required to record or publish their decisions. Because of this dearth of requirements, large projects, such as the one described above, can be erroneously exempted from CEQA’s environmental assessment requirements without the public’s knowledge. Thisproblem can be remedied. Exemption decisions made for projects that could cause environmental impacts should have notice requirements. Otherwise exemption decisions will remain unchecked and communities will have no way to ensure that significant projects undergo environmental review.This article will initially describe CEQA, its exemptions, and the lack of notice requirements for exemption decisions. Next, this article will set forth the reasons why additional notice provisions are necessary to protect communities from agencies erroneously exempting projects that adversely impact the environment from environmental review. Lastly, this article will propose guidelines for projects that should require additional notice, explain how to implement them, and outline the information the notice should contain.
“Are We Doing Damage?” Choosing an Urban Public School in an Era of Parental Anxiety

There is an ample scholarly and popular literature describing the rise in “anxiety” among middle-class parents. This paper draws from a study of urban middle-class parents who were considering sending their children to public school. Focusing on one neighborhood and its school, it describes the impact of anxiety on the choice process. It further examines the emergence of a counter-movement among parents who saw their choice of the school as rejection of contemporary “helicopter parenting.”
Growth control in the ontogenetic and regenerating zebrafish fin

The growth and regeneration of the zebrafish fin provide yet another opportunity to exploit genetics to study important vertebrate problems. Mutants have been identified in zebrafish that affect the development of the embryonic fin, disrupt the normal growth relationship of fin and body, or disrupt the regeneration of the fin. Analysis of a regeneration mutation suggests that the developmental checkpoints that ensure developmental integrity in normal growth are absent in the early stages of regeneration. These stages correspond to the only time in fish developmental when differentiated bone cells divide.
Efficacy of behavior management versus methylphenidate in a hyperactive child: the role of dynamics.

The case of a seven-year-old boy whose hyperactivity is of psychogenic origin is presented. A behavior management approach combined with a positive teacher-child interaction was found to result in better child behavior than was a methyl-phenidate regimen. The importance of the dynamics of the teacher-child interaction is emphasized.
A RAPID SEMIAUTOMATIC SYSTEM OF CHEMICAL ANALYSIS USING TRUE MICROSPECIMENS.

This paper describes some biochemical applications of a self-filling, self-measuring, disposable, dilution micropipet. The device consists of a precision capillary in a plastic adapter and an attachable plastic bottle containing a premeasured volume of diluent or reagent. The human error in measuring microvolumes of liquid is elimimated by the self-filling, self-measuring action of the capillary. A quantitative transfer of sample to reagent is made by introducing the capillary into the bottle and rinsing the capillary by applying and releasing pressure on the walls of the container. The volume and composition of the reagent in the bottle can be varied depending on the test to be performed. An interesting application is its use as a disposable centrifuge tube containing a premeasured volume of stable deproteinizing agent. Other examples are determination of protein, bilirubin, serum sodium, and potassium, and predilution of serum or plasma for the microglucose determination using automatic chemical analysis.
Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) diversity within Monarda fistulosa var. brevis (Lamiaceae) and divergence between var. brevis and var. fistulosa in West Virginia

Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) banding patterns were used to examine genetic diversity within and among populations ofMonarda fistulosa var.brevis, a rare taxon restricted to several populations in limestone glades and barrens in eastern West Virginia and Virginia. More than 34% of the total ISSR diversity in var.brevis occurred among populations, which is high when compared to the few other rare species that have been examined for ISSR variation. Prior studies demonstrated that var.brevis is morphologically distinct from the more widespread var.fistulosa, and that the differences are maintained when the two varieties are grown together in a uniform environment. The present study utilizing ISSR markers indicated that the two varieties are distinct, though quite similar genetically, and this is concordant with prior investigations documenting their morphological and habitat differences. However, the ISSR results suggest that the two varieties have diverged relatively recently and/or there is a low level of gene flow between them.
Introductory course based on a single problem: Learning nucleic acid biochemistry from AIDS research

In departure from the standard approach of using several problems to cover specific topics in a class, I use a single problem to cover the contents of the entire semester-equivalent biochemistry classes. I have developed a problem-based service-learning (PBSL) problem on HIV/AIDS to cover nucleic acid concepts that are typically taught in the second semester of a biochemistry class. Use of research articles on a specific topic allows developing problems such as one discussed here. The implementation of this problem is similar to teaching literature-based courses but is tailored to undergraduate work. Details of designing and setting up this problem, along with the pros and cons of this approach, are discussed here.
Transhepatic therapeutic cardiac catheterization: A new option for the pediatric interventionalist

We evaluate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous transhepatic (TH) venous access for interventional cardiac catheterization. A retrospective review of all TH therapeutic catheterizations between January 1994 and September 1998 was performed. Patient demographics, pre- and postcatheterization hemoglobin and liver function studies, and complications were evaluated. TH access was performed for 30 interventional catheterizations in 25 patients with a median age of 39 months (range, 1 day to 41 years) and weight of 13.2 kg (3.1–87.0 kg). Indications for TH access were bilateral obstructed femoral veins (n = 15), obstructed femoral veins and superior vena cava (n = 3), Greenfield filter (n = 2), and presumptive improved route for intervention via TH access (n = 5). TH interventions were successful in 29/30 procedures (97%). Interventions via TH sheath sizes of 4–14 Fr included pulmonary angioplasty ± stent (n = 11), radiofrequency ablation (n = 4), atrial septal defect device occlusion (n = 2), coil occlusion of pulmonary artery pseduoaneurysm (n = 2), Fontan fenestration device occlusion (n = 2), pulmonary valvuloplasty (n = 2), stent dilation of the superior vena cava (n = 2), and one each of device retrieval, Fontan baffle stent placement and subsequent redilation, Fontan fenestration dilation, transseptal mitral valvuloplasty, and cardiac biopsy. There were no changes in pre- and post-TH hemoglobin levels (mean ± SD, 12.9 ± 2.2 vs. 11.9 ± 1.9 gm/dL; P = NS) or alanine transferase (34.0 ± 27.5 vs. 43.4 ± 18.2 IU/L; P = NS). One patient developed important intraperitoneal bleeding and required exploratory laporatomy. Percutaneous TH access is safe and effective as a route for interventional catheter procedures for patients with limited venous access. Cathet. Cardiovasc. Intervent. 47:41–45, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Monte Carlo study of nonparametric multiple-comparison tests for a two-way layout

A Monte Carlo study of two overall tests, the Friedman and Doksum, and five nonpara­ metric multiple-comparison tests, the McDonald-Thompson, Nemenyi, Wilcoxon, Rhyne­ Steel, and sign test, was done to determine the tests' Type I error rates in a two-way lay­ out with k = 3, 5, and 7 treatments and n = 8, 11, and 15 blocks. It was found that (1) the Friedman test was superior to the Doksum test as an overall test, and (2) the Wilcoxon signed-ranks test, when protected by a significant Friedman test, was the best pairwise multiple-comparison procedure. In a second Monte Carlo study, a modified sign test, termed the stepped-down sign test, was found to be superior to the Wilcoxon test as a protected test; it is recommended for pairwise comparisons in a two-way layout. Experimenters ask a variety of questions regarding the significance of k treatments, and multiple-comparison tests (MCTs) have been devised by statisticians to answer these diverse questions. Multiple-comparison problems are complicated by (1) the diversity of MCTs that are available and (2) the fact that errors of inference can be indexed both in terms of numbers of comparisons and number of experiments. To assess and compare MCTs empirically, Monte Carlo studies have been performed (e.g., Petrinovich & Hardyck, 1969). Recently, Bernhardson (1975) and Carmer and Swanson (1973) did simulations in which they asked a different important question: How do various pairwise MCTs perform when overall F tests are significant? This question is important because (1) MCTs are usually applied after a significant overall test, and (2) MCTs are derived without respect to the outcome of overall tests. Both Bernhardson and Carmer and Swanson found that Fisher's l.s.d. test had excellent Type I error rates and power when applied after a significant F. With the restriction that a MCT can reject equality of pairs of treatments only after a significant overall test, the MCT is referred to as a "protected" test. Thus, when used in this limited way, the Fisher test has also been termed the "protected t test." Bernhardson (1975) described six different observed Type I error rates. Four of these error rates are used in the present study and are defined as follows: (1) a1 is the total number of significant comparisons divided by the total number of comparisons, that is, the product of the total number of experiments, N, and the number of comparisons per experiment, k(k - 1)/2. (2) a2 is the total number of experiments with one or more Significant comparisons divided by the total number of experiments, N. (3) aC is the number of experiments with one or more significant comparisons in which the overall test is significan t divided by the total number of experiments, N. (4) an is the number of experiments
Modeling and analysis of early events in T-lymphocyte antigen-activated intracellular-signaling pathways

The T-cell antigen-activated signaling pathway is a highly regulated intracellular biochemical system that is crucial for initiating an appropriate adaptive immune response. To improve the understanding of the complex regulatory mechanisms controlling the early events in T-cell signaling, a detailed mathematical model was developed that utilizes ordinary differential equations to describe chemical reactions of the signaling pathway. The model parameter values were constrained by experimental data on the activation of a specific signaling intermediate and indicated an initial rapid cascade of phosphorylation events followed by a comparatively slow signal downregulation. Nonlinear analysis of the model suggested that thresholding and bistability occur as a result of the embedded positive and negative feedback loops within the model. These nonlinear system properties may enhance the T-cell receptor specificity and provide sub-threshold noise filtering with switch-like behavior to ensure proper cell response. Additional analysis using a reduced second-order model led to further understanding of the observed system behavior. Moreover, the interactions between the positive and negative feedback loops enabled the model to exhibit, among a variety of other feasible dynamics, a sustained oscillation that corresponds to a stable limit cycle in the two-dimensional phase plane. Quantitative analysis in this paper has helped identify potential regulatory mechanisms in the early T-cell signaling events. This integrated approach provides a framework to quantify and discover the ensemble of interconnected T-cell antigen-activated signaling pathways from limited experimental data.
A Recursive Body-Body Formulation for Reducing the Computational Cost of Pairwise Coulomb Force Computation for Modeling and Simulation of Biopolymers, Using a Multibody Approach to Model Reduction

This work presents a method for recursively assembling tensor-like quantities that parameterize the charge distribution of rigid bodies, which result from model reduction of biopolymeric systems using an articulated multibody approach. This is done with the goal of reducing the computational cost associated with the pairwise force determination encountered in molecular dynamics simulations. To achieve a linear computational cost complexity of the force determination, with respect to the number of bodies in the system (N), a recursive assembly and disassembly (evaluation) sweep is proposed. This work proposes assembling these tensor quantities (pseudo-inertia tensors), which are associated with the body’s charge distribution, with a method that uses the standard parallel axis theorem to shift these tensors to a common point so they may be summed.This work presents a preliminary numerical example that examines the accuracy of the force and moment computation using a pseudo-inertia tensor resulting after one level of recursive assembly. The Coulomb force and associated moment on a target body due to the assembled body is computed. The test problem approximates a system that is highly negatively or positively charged. The orientation of the bodies that are assembled is varied, along with the distance between the assembly and the target body. The preliminary results presented herein suggest that this is a viable method of efficiently representing the charge distribution of an assembly. The numerical example presented determines the Coulomb force and the associated moment, as a function of distance and the pseudo-inertia tensor. However, the approximation can be used for any force that is of the form 1/rs, where s is any power.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Structure of Regge Poles and Their Residues at t=0 for General Two-Body-to-Two-Body Reactions

A convenient method is introduced to analyze the requirements imposed by the analyticity of the full helicity amplitudes on the structure of Regge poles and their residues at $t=0$ for two-body-to-two-body reactions with general masses and spins. This method enables us to visualize the structure of daughter trajectories and conspirators clearly. Also, in practice, this method enables us to make the following derivation easily for reactions with arbitrary spins. (1) The most singular parts of the daughter and conspirator residues at $t=0$ are calculated for unequal-mass-unequal-mass reactions and unequal-mass-unequal-mass reactions. Then, through factorization, the nonvanishing parts of the daughter and conspirator residues are obtained for the equal-mass-equal-mass reactions. They are identified with a one-Lorentz-pole expansion. (2) In calculating the daughter and conspirator residues, the analyticity requirements of both the $t$-channel and the $s$-channel helicity amplitudes are satisfied. Therefore, the conspiracy equations are shown to be satisfied explicitly. (3) The restrictions on the slopes of the daughter trajectories are also obtained. Their independence of the external masses and spins is shown. (4) The restrictions on the slopes of the conspirators are also calculated. We obtain an interesting new result: For a trajectory of quantum number $M$, at $t=0$, the trajectories ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{+}(t)$ and ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{\ensuremath{-}}(t)$ are equal, and likewise their derivatives up to the $(M\ensuremath{-}1)\mathrm{th}$. Before carrying out all these calculations, all the $t$ factors of the Regge residue have to be determined. By introducing a quantum number $M$ in the unequal-mass-unequal-mass reactions, the $t$ factors of the parent as well as the daughter residues are uniquely determined using the conventional method of analyticity and factorization. This quantum number $M$ is identified to be the $O(4)$ $M$ in the equal-mass-equal-mass reactions. We note that if the definition of the quantum number $M$ is not affected by the coincidence of $\ensuremath{\alpha}(t)$ with an integer at $t=0$, then the trajectory $\ensuremath{\alpha}(0)$ will choose sense if $Ml\ensuremath{\alpha}(0)$ and choose nonsense if $Mg\ensuremath{\alpha}(0)$. At the end of the paper, a discussion is given on the implications for the group-theoretical approach to the Regge-pole theory.
New light on an old process

In the traditional canning process the food is heated in its can and the heat treatment, typically 120°C for 20 minutes, is sufficient to sterilise both contents and container. This relatively severe heat treatment has practical disadvantages and in recent years an alternative treatment known as UHT (ultra‐high temperature) processing, has been introduced. The foodstuff, usually a liquid, is heated to a higher temperature for a very much shorter time — 140°C for 5 seconds is typical — usually in a continuous operation. The containers are sterilised separately before filling aseptically with the heat‐processed food. Containers for UHT products are made from plastics (chiefly polypropylene), paper board, aluminium foil or from laminates or other combinations of these materials.
Built-in resilience

The 2010 Haiti earthquake showed that building codes must be adopted and strictly enforced. Furthermore, timely disaster recovery requires these codes to be supplemented by comprehensive hazard-insurance programmes.
On the molecular diffusion coefficients of dissolved CO2,HCO3-, and CO32- and their dependence on isotopic mass

Abstract The molecular diffusion coefficients of dissolved carbon dioxide ( CO 2 ) , bicarbonate ion ( HCO 3 - ) , and carbonate ion ( CO 3 2 - ) are fundamental physico-chemical constants and are of practical significance in various disciplines including geochemistry, biology, and medicine. Yet, very little experimental data is available, for instance, on the bicarbonate and carbonate ion diffusion coefficient. Furthermore, it appears that no information was hitherto available on the mass-dependence of the diffusion coefficients of the ionic carbonate species in water. Here I use molecular dynamics simulations to study the diffusion of the dissolved carbonate species in water, including their dependence on temperature and isotopic mass. Based on the simulations, I provide equations to calculate the diffusion coefficients of dissolved CO 2 , HCO 3 - , and CO 3 2 - over the temperature range from 0° to 100 °C. The results indicate a mass-dependence of CO 2 diffusion that is consistent with the observed 12 CO 2 / 13 CO 2 diffusion ratio at 25 °C. No significant isotope fractionation appears to be associated with the diffusion of the naturally occurring isotopologues of HCO 3 - and CO 3 2 - at 25 °C.
Lunar magnetism, polar displacements and primeval satellites in the Earth–Moon system

The discovery that rocks of the lunar crust possess remanent magnetism is a surprising result in view of the fact that the present Moon does not exhibit a magnetic field, nor was there once evidence of an iron core in which one could be generated. This review looks at the concept of lunar palaeomagnetism and discusses its implications for lunar science as a whole.
Available potential energy density for Boussinesq fluid flow

An exact expression for available potential energy density in Boussinesq fluid flows (Roullet & Klein, J. Fluid Mech., vol. 624, 2009, pp. 45–55; Holliday & McIntyre, J. Fluid Mech., vol. 107, 1981, pp. 221–225) is shown explicitly to integrate to the available potential energy of Winters et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 289, 1995, pp. 115–128). is a positive definite function of position and time consisting of two terms. The first, which is simply the indefinitely signed integrand in the Winters et al. definition of , quantifies the expenditure or release of potential energy in the relocation of individual fluid parcels to their equilibrium height. When integrated over all parcels, this term yields the total available potential energy . The second term describes the energetic consequences of the compensatory displacements necessary under the Boussinesq approximation to conserve vertical volume flux with each parcel relocation. On a pointwise basis, this term adds to the first in such a way that a positive definite contribution to is guaranteed. Globally, however, the second term vanishes when integrated over all fluid parcels and therefore contributes nothing to . In effect, it filters the components of the first term that cancel upon integration, isolating the positive definite residuals. can be used to construct spatial maps of local contributions to for direct numerical simulations of density stratified flows. Because integrates to , these maps are explicitly connected to known, exact, temporal evolution equations for kinetic, available and background potential energies.
Enhancement of absorption by gum arabic in a model of gastrointestinal dysfunction.

Objective: Diarrhea is a common and deadly threat to millions of infants and children. Similarly, malabsorption can aggravate the health status of the chronically sick and especially the elderly. Prompt recovery from intestinal dysfunction may have a substantial impact on many populations. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that, in an animal model of cathartic-induce diarrhea, the previously shown proabsorptive effects of gum arabic (GA) could directly reduce and ameliorate intestinal dysfunction.Methods: Young male rats were offered a standard solid feed and as a sole source of fluid a phenolphthalein-magnesium citrate solution for 3 or 6 days (PC), or the same plus either 10 (GA1) or 20 (GA2) g/L of GA. Other groups had tap water without (CTL) or with 20 g/L GA (CTL + GA), after which the animals were jejunally perfused under anesthesia to test their absorptive capacity. Similarly treated rats were killed and the small intestinal mucosa scraped and processed for nitric oxide synthase (NOS...
Leg Length Discrepancy and Osteoarthritic Knee Pain in the Elderly: An Observational Study

Context Osteoarthritic knee pain is very common, as are leg length discrepancies (LLDs). The relationship between LLDs and osteoarthritic knee pain is not well understood. Objective To confirm a clinical impression that osteoarthritic knee pain is more common in the short (ie, superior-presenting) leg, as measured by supine physical examination of 3 bony landmarks: the medial malleoli, the anterior superior iliac spines, and the iliac crests. The secondary objective was to measure the relative positions of the 3 bony landmarks to better understand functional contributions to LLD. Methods A prospective single-occasion observational design was used. Patients who reported osteoarthritic knee pain during an office visit were recruited, and data were collected on 3 bony landmarks and which knee was usually most painful. Results Of the 32 participants who were recruited, 28 were women and 4 were men. Of the 17 participants who reported having right knee pain, 10 had a short right leg and 7 had a short left leg. Of the 15 participants who reported having left knee pain, 13 had a short left leg, 1 had a short right leg, and 1 had equal leg lengths. Knee pain was most severe in the short leg for 23 of 32 participants (71.9%). The most common pattern was for both iliac crests to be equal and the short leg to be concordant with a superior anterior superior iliac spine, which occurred in 23 of 32 participants (71.9%). In the present study population, the magnitude of LLD ranged from 0 to 2.1 cm. Conclusion Osteoarthritic knee pain was more common in the apparent short leg. More sophisticated studies, including investigations into the role of pelvic torsion in knee pain, as well as investigations for interoperator reliability and validity, are needed to build on the findings reported in this observational study.
Quantum Imaging and Phase Sensitive Optical Amplification

We have constructed a phase sensitive optical amplifier based on four-wave mixing in rubidium vapor. This low-gain amplifier operates in the quantum regime and is capable of noiseless amplification of images.
“Venetian-blind” direct energy converter for fusion reactors

A new direct energy conversion technique that uses the angular-dependent transmission of ribbon grids, which resemble Venetian blinds, to recover the energy of particles leaking out of a fusion reactor is discussed. This converter works well, even to energies as low as 10 keV, because of its excellent space-charge handling ability. This low-energy operating range makes direct energy conversion possible on closed confinement devices; operation at about 100 keV might be useful on open confinement devices. Energy recovery efficiencies of 60 to 70% are predicted. Examples are presented in which a direct energy converter with efficiencies in this range, when viewed as a topping cycle to a thermal converter, could considerably improve the reactor prospects of both open- and closed-field-line confinement schemes.
Capacity building through focus group training in community-based participatory research.

Background: Community-based participatory research (CBPR) emphasizes collaborative efforts among communities and academics where all members are equitable contributors. Capacity building through training in research methodology is a potentially important outcome for CBPR partnerships. Objectives: To describe the logistics and lessons learned from building community research capacity for focus group moderation in the context of a CBPR partnership. Methods: After orientation to CBPR principles, members of a US suburban community underwent twelve hours of interactive learning in focus group moderation by a national focus group expert. An additional eight-hour workshop promoted advanced proficiency and built on identified strengths and weaknesses. Ten focus groups were conducted at an adult education center addressing a health concern previously identified by the center's largely immigrant and refugee population. Program evaluation was achieved through multiple observations by community and academic-based observers. Results: Twenty-seven community and academic members were recruited through established relationships for training in focus group moderation, note-taking, and report compilation. Focus group training led to increased trust among community and research partners while empowering individual community members and increasing research capacity for CBPR. Conclusions: Community members were trained in focus group moderation and successfully applied these skills to a CBPR project addressing a health concern in the community. This approach of equipping community members with skills in a qualitative research method promoted capacity building within a socio-culturally diverse community, while strengthening community-academic partnership. In this setting, capacity building efforts may help to ensure the success and sustainability for continued health interventions through CBPR.
Influence of phase-breaking processes on shot noise in resonant tunneling devices

J. Han and F.S. Barnes (1991) have shown that shot noise power associated with the current in double-barrier resonant tunneling structures is significantly reduced due to reductions in velocity fluctuations. The model is based on the transit time of coherent electrons across the device structure. It is shown that in the presence of phase-breaking processes the shot noise cutoff frequency is higher than that predicted by Han and Barnes. This is because an increased phase-breaking collision rate tends to broaden the effective velocity distribution for the transmitted electrons. >
Eocene paleolatitude, climate, and mammals of Ellesmere island

Abstract During the early and middle Eocene Ellesmere Island was situated at almost the same latitude as at present. Marine paleotemperatures locally reached 15°C. Mean paleo-obliquity of Earth's spin axis was substantial and there is no physical model for any other value than the present mean value. In agreement with geochemical and additional biological data, the Ellesmere mammalian fauna indicates a warm climate in the Arctic about 50 m.y. ago. How this can be compatible with significant periods of winter darkness remains a problem, but decreased solar energy production after the middle Eocene is an uninvestigated possibility. The Donn and Shaw (1977) model of Eocene paleoclimate is in conflict with several lines of evidence presented here.
Infrared reflectivity studies of p-type Pb1 -xSnxTe

Near normal incidence reflectivity spectra of p-type Pb1 − xSnxTe have been obtained. The electric susceptibility effective mass m★, dielectric constant e∞ and relaxation lifetime τ were determined by a computer least squares best fit of the data to a single band Drude free carrier model. A possible anomalous behavior of m★ has been observed. Die Reflektionsspektren von p-leitendem Pb1 − xSnx Te wurden bei nahezu senkrechtem Einfall aufgenommen. Die effektive Masse der elektrischen Suszeptibilitat m★, die Dielek-trizitatskonstante e∞ und die Relaxationslebensdauer τ wurden durch Anpassung an ein Modell, welches ein einziges Band freier Ladungstrager nach Drude voraussetzt, berechnet. Ein moglicherweise anomales Verhalten von m★ wurde beobachtet.