cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tropical Cyclones and Climate Change: An Indian Ocean Perspective

The tropical Indian Ocean is characterized by surface-warming trends that are more statistically significant, compared with model-simulated internal variability, than those in many other tropical basins including in the Northeast Pacific and North Atlantic (e.g., Knutson et al., 2006, see Figs. 5, 7, 9). This raises the possibility that tropical cyclone (TC) trends resulting from global warming could emerge in the Indian Ocean prior to other basins. Here, some studies of climate-warming impacts on tropical cyclone behavior relevant to this issue are reviewed.
Network Neutrality and Vertical Control: Lessons from Cable TV

Empirical research about the effects of vertical integration in cable television suggests that in spite of differences in the economic architectures of cable and Internet broadband, integrated ISPs have economic incentives in some realistic circumstances to favor vertically integrated content services and to restrict entry of (or foreclose) relatively less established ― rival content services. We also develop a simple ― discrimination shifting model to show that while a non-discrimination access rule such as that proposed by the FCC in October, 2009, is likely to diminish discrimination behavior by vertically integrated ISPs overall, it may have the effect of shifting similar ISP behavior downstream to the consumer retail level unless that market is also regulated. We further conjecture that certain beneficial effects of vertical integration on financing and entry of programming networks that were identified in the cable industry are present, but likely to prove less important for ISPs, due to development since the 1980s and 90s of a large and robust programming supply industry that is mostly disintegrated with cable operators, other MVPDs, or ISPs. Finally, the history of both the cable and ISP industries makes evident that the fundamental policy concerns from an economic perspective are not vertical integration but horizontal market control of ISPs within local market areas and also via their significant national market shares of all broadband Internet subscribers.
Correlation of the Multi-Biomarker Disease Activity Score With Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity Measures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Objective There are conflicting reports on the validity of the multi-biomarker disease activity (MBDA) score for assessing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease activity. Our aim was to perform a systematic review of the MBDA and a meta-analysis of the correlation between the MBDA and other RA disease activity measures. Methods A systematic review was performed by searching Medline, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library from inception to March 7, 2017. Study details, MBDA performance, and study quality were assessed by independent reviewers. Correlations of the MBDA with composite RA disease activity measures were pooled using random-effects meta-analyses. Results A total of 22 studies were identified in the systematic review, of which 8 (n = 3,242 assays) reported correlations of the MBDA with RA disease activity measures. Pooling results from these 8 studies in the meta-analysis, the MBDA demonstrated modest correlations with the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the C-reactive protein level (DAS28-CRP; r = 0.41, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.36-0.46) and the Disease Activity Score using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR; r = 0.48, 95% CI 0.38-0.58), with weaker correlations observed with the Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI; r = 0.35, 95% CI 0.26-0.43), Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI; r = 0.26, 95% CI 0.19-0.33), and Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data 3 (RAPID3; r = 0.23, 95% CI 0.19-0.27). Correlations between change in MBDA and change in disease activity measures ranged from r = 0.53 for the DAS28-ESR to r = 0.26 for the CDAI. Conclusion The MBDA demonstrates moderate convergent validity with the DAS28-CRP and the DAS28-ESR but weaker correlations with the SDAI, CDAI, and RAPID3. While it appears to complement existing RA disease activity measures, further assessment of the performance characteristics of the MBDA is warranted.
The evolving toxicity profile of SBRT for lung cancer

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is an effective and well tolerated treatment for early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The high doses used in thoracic SBRT can sometimes cause adverse effects ranging from mild fatigue and transient esophagitis to fatal events such as pneumonitis or hemorrhage. Efforts continue to expand in both the utility of this technique as well as our understanding of the mechanisms of the adverse effects it can cause. In this review, we discuss the current literature regarding the potential mechanisms, dosimetric constraints and toxicities associated with SBRT alone and in conjunction with definitive chemoradiotherapy and immunotherapy. As the use of SBRT expands to these spheres, we examine the available recommendations for mitigating potential associated treatment related toxicities.
Metrics for regulated biochemical pathway systems.

Motivation The assessment of graphs through crisp numerical metrics has long been a hallmark of biological network analysis. However, typical graph metrics ignore regulatory signals that are crucially important for optimal pathway operation, for instance, in biochemical or metabolic studies. Here we introduce adjusted metrics that are applicable to both static networks and dynamic systems. Results The metrics permit quantitative characterizations of the importance of regulation in biochemical pathway systems, including systems designed for applications in synthetic biology or metabolic engineering. They may also become criteria for effective model reduction. Availability and implementation The source code is available at https://gitlab.com/tienbien44/metrics-bsa.
The Importance of Auxology for Growth Assessment

Auxology is the basis of a proper growth evaluation. It is through the history, physical exam, and auxology that we are able to properly assess a child’s growth. Auxology enables us to establish a child’s growth patterns and determine if growth is indeed normal. An accurate and reliable measurement, along with appropriate and accurate charting, is critical for a proper growth evaluation.
Overall survival according to immunotherapy and radiation treatment for metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer: a National Cancer Database analysis

Preclinical studies suggest enhanced anti-tumor activity with combined radioimmunotherapy. We hypothesized that radiation (RT) + immunotherapy would associate with improved overall survival (OS) compared to immunotherapy or chemotherapy alone for patients with newly diagnosed metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The National Cancer Database was queried for patients with stage IV NSCLC receiving chemotherapy or immunotherapy from 2013 to 2014. RT modality was classified as stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) to intra- and/or extracranial sites or non-SRT external beam RT (EBRT). OS was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models. In total, 44,498 patients were included (13% immunotherapy, 46.8% EBRT, and 4.7% SRT). On multivariate analysis, immunotherapy (hazard ratio [HR]:0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.78–0.83) and SRT (HR:0.78, 95%CI:0.70–0.78) independently associated with improved OS; however, the interaction term for SRT + immunotherapy was insignificant (p = 0.89). For immunotherapy patients, the median OS for no RT, EBRT, and SRT was 14.5, 10.9, and 18.2 months, respectively (p 60 Gy was independently associated with improved OS (HR:0.79, 95%CI:0.70–0.90, p < 0.0001) on multivariate analysis with a significant interaction between BED and systemic treatment (p = 0.008). Treatment with SRT associated with improved OS for patients with metastatic NSCLC irrespective of systemic treatment. The high survival for patients receiving SRT + immunotherapy strongly argues for evaluation in randomized trials.
Palliative Care Usage in Young Adult Oncology Population.

Abstract Context: Early integration of palliative care (PC) into adult oncology practice has been shown to improve quality of life and health care utilization; however, little is known about PC in ...
Highly sensitive capacitive pressure sensors based on elastomer composites with carbon filler hybrids

Abstract Flexible pressure sensing applications such as prosthetic limbs and wearable electronics will benefit from pressure sensors with increased capacitive sensitivity. Therefore, to fabricate pressure sensors with increased sensitivity, hybrid composites of a new type of carbon nanofiller, carbon nanostructures (CNS, i.e. branched carbon nanotubes) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) at various compositions were mixed with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to tune the composite dielectric properties. Furthermore, in congruence with the global effort towards less wasteful electronic device production, these capacitive sensors were fabricated in a facile and environment-friendly strategy. In a composition of CNS and GNP at a mass ratio of 3:1, the composite sensor shows the highest pressure sensitivity of 2.05 MPa−1 for 0–1.2 MPa pressure, compared with 0.18 MPa−1 for neat TPU, enabling potential wearable pressure sensor applications. The improved performance arises from the combination of interconnected CNS along with the high dielectric constant and suppressed loss of GNP.
Applications of Blockchain to Improve Supply Chain Traceability

Abstract Blockchain has been emerged as a promising technology for a traceability system in industry. It can also be applied to many functions of a Supply Chain Management (SCM) system, such as logistics, quality assurance, inventory management, and forecasting. One of the most important functions of the SCM is to improve the transparency, traceability and auditability of materials flow throughout the supply chain from suppliers, manufacturing facilities, warehouses/distribution centers, to customers. This research especially focuses on the impact of blockchain on supply chain traceability through the current industry applications, and its future direction.
Detection of Potentially Toxic Additives in Electronic Cigarettes and Cigarette Flavourings

While the popularity of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) has rapidly increased in recent years, the regulation around the composition of such e-cigarettes has lagged. Many components of the e-c...
A novel soluble ACE2 protein totally protects from lethal disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) uses full-length angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which is membrane bound, as its initial cell contact receptor preceding viral entry. Here we report a human soluble ACE2 variant fused with a 5kD albumin binding domain (ABD) and bridged via a dimerization motif hinge-like 4-cysteine dodecapeptide, which we term ACE2 1-618-DDC-ABD. This protein is enzymatically active, has increased duration of action in vivo conferred by the ABD-tag, and displays 20-30-fold higher binding affinity to the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain than its des-DDC monomeric form (ACE2 1-618-ABD) due to DDC-linked dimerization. ACE2 1-618-DDC-ABD was administered for 3 consecutive days to transgenic k18-hACE2 mice, a model that develops lethal SARS-CoV-2 infection, to evaluate the preclinical preventative/ therapeutic value for COVID-19. Mice treated with ACE2 1-618-DDC-ABD developed a mild to moderate disease for the first few days assessed by a clinical score and modest weight loss. The untreated control animals, by contrast, became severely ill and had to be sacrificed by day 6/7 and lung histology revealed extensive pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage and mononuclear infiltrates. At 6 days, mortality was totally prevented in the treated group, lung histopathology was improved and viral titers markedly reduced. This demonstrates for the first time in vivo the preventative/ therapeutic potential of a novel soluble ACE2 protein in a preclinical animal model.
Exploring the genetic overlap of suicide-related behaviors and substance use disorders

Abstract Background Suicide-related behaviors are heterogeneous and transdiagnostic, and may demonstrate varying levels of genetic overlap with different substance use disorders (SUDs). Methods We used linkage disequilibrium score regression and genomic structural equation models to examine the genetic relationships between several SUDs and suicide-related behaviors. Our analyses incorporated summary statistics from the largest genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of problematic alcohol use (PAU), the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), cannabis use disorder (CUD), and opioid use disorder (OUD; Ns ranging from 46,213-435,563) and GWAS of ever self-harmed, suicide attempt, and suicide death (Ns ranging from 18,223-117,733). We also accounted for genetic liability to depression (N=500,199) and risk tolerance (N=315,894). Results Ever self-harmed correlated most strongly with CUD (rg=0.60) and suicide death correlated most strongly with OUD (rg=0.53). Suicide attempt correlated similarly with all SUDs. Simultaneously correlating a common SUD factor with each specific suicide indicator while controlling for depression and risk tolerance revealed significant, positive genetic correlations between all SUDs and suicide-related behaviors (rg=0.26-0.46). Discussion Our findings suggest that genetic and behavioral contributions to suicide death may somewhat differ from non-lethal suicide-related behaviors. Additionally, we identify a general level of genetic overlap between SUDs and suicide-related behaviors which is independent of depression and risk tolerance.
A race against time: couples' lived diagnostic journeys to young-onset dementia.

PURPOSE Young onset dementias (YOD) - typically defined by symptom onset before age 65 - are frequently overlooked in medical and community settings. Persons with YOD and their spouses face logistical and emotional challenges on their journey to a diagnosis (e.g. uncertainty about symptoms, lack of medical knowledge, emotional distress). An in-depth understanding of couples' experiences before and immediately following a YOD diagnosis is warranted to inform early psychosocial services for couples. METHODS We utilized dyadic qualitative semi-structured interviews (N = 23) to better understand the nuances of couples' pre-diagnostic and diagnostic experiences with YOD. We used a hybrid of deductive and inductive analytic strategies to identify couple-level themes. RESULTS Fifteen couple-level themes were extracted within four domains: (1) early indicators of symptoms, (2) obtaining a diagnosis, (3) experiences with health care providers, and (4) emotional reactions to the diagnosis. Couples expressed difficulties communicating about early symptoms, receiving accurate and timely diagnostic information, and managing multiple emotions. They described the value of working together to manage care, gain information, establish positive relationships with providers, and promote adjustment. CONCLUSION Findings highlight the shared experiences of couples during the early stages of YOD, including the importance of strong communication with each other and providers. Early and accessible psychosocial services that help couples cope with and communicate about individual and shared stressors are warranted.
On/at the Edges of Liminality: Analytical Extensions Betwixt and between Thresholds

A central task of social and cultural psychology, as well as the philosophy of culture, is the analysis of the felt significant effects of cultural forms. These forms function as what Stenner calls “affective mediational technologies” or “liminal affective technologies.” Iris Murdoch defined them as outer frameworks that occasion as well as define inner events. Their diverse logics inform the ineluctable universal transitional character of our lives, marked by the liminal sense of moving out of and between universes of meaning. As partner disciplines, philosophy and cultural psychology aim to uncover the variations and the contents of the multiplicity of occasions of experiencing elicited or created by these forms. This philosophically oriented chapter “rotates” some examples of rituals of attention that illustrate how an emergent sense of a liminal opening can spontaneously arise in, be provoked by, and transform any context of experience in which we encultured beings live. Where are the experiential “edges” of the frames of liminal experiences? How “fuzzy” are they? Robert Musil offers a challenge: “to pass freely through open doors, it is necessary to respect the fact that they have solid frames.”
The CHO Cell Clustering Response to Pertussis Toxin: History of Its Discovery and Recent Developments in Its Use

Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells respond to pertussis toxin (PT) with a novel clustering pattern, which is dependent on biologically active PT. Since its description in 1983, this cellular response has been refined and used extensively for detection and quantification of PT activity, as well as anti-PT antibodies. There are limitations, however, in the use of this phenomenon as originally described. They are: (1) a subjective, observer-dependent scoring system; (2) the requirement for 16-24 h incubation in order for the response to be clearly detectable; and (3) apparent interference from non-toxin materials. To overcome these limitations, a number of alternative in vitro assays for PT, using CHO cells or other cell types, have been developed and are described elsewhere in this publication. In addressing the challenges associated with the CHO cell assay, we discovered that changes in the electrical impedance-based "normalized cell index" of PT-treated CHO cells obtained with the ACEA xCELLigence instrument enable objective detection/quantification of the PT-induced effect in as little as 3-4 h. To the best of our knowledge, the molecular basis for this intriguing response remains unknown. We present here electron microscopic (EM) images of control and PT-treated cells, which suggest some potential molecular mechanisms.
Mutant SNAP25B Causes Novel Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome (CMS), Cortical Hyperexcitability, Ataxia, and Intellectual Disability (S34.003)

OBJECTIVE: To identify and characterize the molecular basis of a CMS associated with intellectual disability, cortical hyperexcitability, and cerebellar ataxia in an 11-year-old girl. BACKGROUND: The SNARE proteins are core components of the synaptic vesicle fusion machinery. Ca 2+ -triggered exocytosis is initiated when synaptobrevin (a v-SNARE) attached to synaptic vesicles assembles with syntaxin and SNAP25B anchored in the presynaptic membrane (t-SNAREs) into an α-helical coiled-coil held together by hydrophobic interactions. SNAP25B is essential for vesicle docking, priming, and triggering fast exocytosis. A human mutation in SNAP25B caused epilepsy. DESIGN/METHODS: Clinical observations, microelectrode studies of neuromuscular transmission, exome sequencing, immunoblotting, liposome fusion assays, and amperometric assay of exocytosis. RESULTS: Exome sequencing identified a dominant de novo p.Ile67Asn mutation in SNAP25B. Endplate (EP) ultrastructure and expression of mutant SNAP25B in COS7 cells were normal. The miniature EP potential frequency was markedly reduced. The number of evoked quanta and the readily releasable fraction of quanta were not normally distributed, with some values significantly lower and some normal or higher than normal as can be observed with mutations arising in a post-zygotic cell. The probability of quantal release was 63 percent of normal. Expression studies showed the mutant SNAP25B expressed alone or in combination with wild-type SNAP25B (1) reduces depolarization-evoked exocytosis from bovine chromaffin cells to ~30[percnt] of that found after transfection with wild-type alone and (2) hinders the Ca 2+ triggered fusion of liposomes incorporating v-SNAREs with liposomes containing t-SNAREs. Treatment with 3,4-diaminopyridine improved the patient’s weakness but not her ataxia and caused no seizures. CONCLUSION: Ile67Asn mutation in SNAP25B is pathogenic because it inhibits synaptic vesicle exocytosis. We attribute the deleterious effects of the mutation to disruption of the hydrophobic α-helical coiled-coil structure of the SNARE complex by replacement of a highly hydrophobic isoleucine by a strongly hydrophilic asparagine. Study Supported by: NIH Disclosure: Dr. Shen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Selcen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Brengman has nothing to disclose. Dr. Engel has nothing to disclose.
Alpha-bungarotoxin receptors in the CNS.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses α-Bungarotoxin (BuTX) receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). The chapter discusses the regulation of BuTX binding sites by cholinergic drugs. The relationship between the concentration of BuTX binding sites and the effect of nicotine on behaviors that are believed to be mediated by nicotinic cholinergic receptors is investigated. In doses that produce the up-regulation of toxin binding, nicotine administered via osmotic mini pumps results in a transient increase in behavioral activity as measured by telemetry. Some of the effect of nicotine demonstrated relates to the absence of a depression in activity following surgery, which probably reflects the ability of nicotine to reverse the depressant effect of anesthesia. The effects of AF64 on the circadian rhythm and nAChRs are discussed. Studies of physiological and behavioral characteristics under the control of the hypothalamus, however, may eventually lead to more promising results. The hypothalamus is associated with a wide variety of endocrine and homeostatic functions, many of which are believed to be mediated by nicotinic receptors. The hypothalamus is rich in BuTX binding sites and may make a good model to study the function of the BuTX binding protein.
Studies on the Biochemical Basis of Spontaneous Mutation I. A COMPARISON OF THE DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID POLYMERASES OF MUTATOR, ANTIMUTATOR, AND WILD TYPE STRAINS OF BACTERIOPHAGE T4

The deoxyribonucleic acid polymerases induced by two mutator, two antimutator, and one neutral temperature-sensitive strain of T4D have been partially purified and compared to each other and to the wild type polymerase. Measurements of polymerase, polymerase-associated exonuclease, and deoxynucleoside triphosphate turnover indicate that the mutators and antimutators may be readily distinguished from wild type by the ratios of these activities. The enzymes prepared from mutators have a much lower exonuclease to polymerase ratio than wild type, and the antimutators have a higher ratio of exonuclease to polymerase and a higher rate of nucleotide turnover. Similar measurements with the neutral temperature-sensitive mutant indicate a close resemblance to wild type. On the basis of these experiments we propose that the spontaneous mutation rate is related to the relative rates of insertion and removal of nucleotides during synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acid. Mutations in the structural gene of the polymerase which perturb this exonuclease to polymerase ratio are expressed as mutator or antimutator genes.
Transcription factor ELF4 promotes development and function of memory CD8(+) T cells in Listeria monocytogenes infection.

Most differentiated CD8(+) T cells die off at the end of an infection, revealing two main subsets of memory T cells - central and effector memory - which can be found in lymphoid tissues or circulating through nonlymphoid organs, respectively. The cell intrinsic regulation of the differentiation of CD8(+) T cells to effector and central memory remains poorly studied. Herein, we describe a novel role of the ETS transcription factor ELF4 in the development and function of memory CD8(+) T cells following infection with Listeria monocytogenes. Adoptively transferred Elf4(-/-) naive CD8(+) T cells produced lower numbers of effector memory CD8(+) T cells despite a normal pool of central memory. This was caused by suboptimal priming and decreased survival of CD8(+) T cells at the peak of response while enhanced Notch1 signaling and upregulation of eomesodermin correlated with "normal" development of Elf4(-/-) central memory. Finally, loss of ELF4 impaired the expansion of both central and effector memory CD8(+) T cells in a recall response by also activating Notch1 signaling. Altogether, ELF4 emerges as a novel transcriptional regulator of CD8(+) T-cell differentiation in response to infection.
Chapter 18 Metamodel-Based Simulation Optimization

Abstract Simulation models allow the user to understand system performance and assist in behavior prediction, to support system diagnostics and design. Iterative optimization methods are often used in conjunction with engineering simulation models to search for designs with desired properties. These optimization methods can be difficult to employ with a discrete-event simulation, due to the stochastic nature of the response(s) and the potentially extensive run times. A metamodel, or model of the simulation model, simplifies the simulation optimization in two ways: the metamodel response is deterministic rather than stochastic, and the run times are generally much shorter than the original simulation. Metamodels based on first- or second-order polynomials generally provide good fit only locally, and so a series of metamodels are fit as the optimization progresses. Other classes of metamodels can provide good global fit; in these cases one can fit a (global) metamodel once, at the start of the optimization, and use it to find a design that will meet the optimality criteria. Both approaches are discussed in this chapter and illustrated with an example.
Microdisk cavity-coupled MoS 2 with tunable narrowband emission

Monolayer MoS 2 has emergent photoluminescence (PL) at the monolayer limit. In this work we incorporate monolayer MoS 2 to a fabricated silica optical resonator microdisk cavity, coupling the PL from the 2-D material to the optical cavity modes. The resultant emission is spectrally narrow, with quality-factors (Q) as high as 900. By subsequently altering the cavity thickness, we are able to tune the position of the emission peaks by more than the free spectral range (FSR) of the cavity modes. This tunability also shows the potential for this device architecture to serve as a highly-sensitive platform for bio-analyte sensing.
Single Queueing Systems

In this chapter we will look at the case of the single queue. Even though chapters 3 and 4 will discuss networks of queues, it is probably safe to say that the majority of modeling work that has been done for queues has involved a single queue. One reason is that for any investigation into queueing theory the single queueing system is a natural starting point. Another reason is tractability: much more can easily be ascertained about single queues than about networks of queues.
Hemorrhagic Fevers: How They Wax and Wane

This chapter concentrates on the arena viruses and presents some recent findings on Ebola virus and other hemorrhagic fever viruses. The viral hemorrhagic fevers all have similar clinical pictures, with mortality rates of 15 to 30%, or in the case of Ebola virus up to 80%. Between 1993 and 1996, an increasing number of different viral hemorrhagic fevers and related diseases were seen in any other comparable period over the past 3 decades. The previously known Zaire subtype of Ebola virus caused an epidemic in Kikwit, Zaire, largely through nosocomial amplification and person-to-person transmission. The arenaviruses responsible for naturally occurring human disease are listed in the chapter. There are at least two tools to deal with the shifting, growing target, and there is also the vaccine against Junin virus, which has the possibility to eliminate human disease from Argentine hemorrhagic fever, the largest public health problem caused by the American arenaviruses. One can approach the prevention or treatment of most of the hemorrhagic fevers optimistically, but Ebola virus prevention and treatment still elude us.
Kinase-Independent Functions for Itk in TCR-Induced Regulation of Vav and the Actin Cytoskeleton

The Tec family kinase Itk is an important regulator of Ca(2+) mobilization and is required for in vivo responses to Th2-inducing agents. Recent data also implicate Itk in TCR-induced regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. We have evaluated the requirements for Itk function in TCR-induced actin polarization. Reduction of Itk expression via small interfering RNA treatment of the Jurkat human T lymphoma cell line or human peripheral blood T cells disrupted TCR-induced actin polarization, a defect that correlated with decreased recruitment of the Vav guanine nucleotide exchange factor to the site of Ag contact. Vav localization and actin polarization could be rescued by re-expression of either wild-type or kinase-inactive murine Itk but not by Itk containing mutations affecting the pleckstrin homology or Src homology 2 domains. Additionally, we find that Itk is constitutively associated with Vav. Loss of Itk expression did not alter gross patterns of Vav tyrosine phosphorylation but appeared to disrupt the interactions of Vav with SLP-76. Expression of membrane-targeted Vav, Vav-CAAX, can rescue the small interfering RNA to Itk-induced phenotype, implicating the alteration in Vav localization as directly contributing to the actin polarization defect. These data suggest a kinase-independent scaffolding function for Itk in the regulation of Vav localization and TCR-induced actin polarization.
The dynamic response of a photoreceptor.

Publisher Summary This chapter examines the dynamic response of the eye of the horseshoe crab (Limulus). The digital computer played an equally important role in testing the mathematical models by simulating the responses of the eye. The chapter discusses the established mechanisms for the transduction of light intensity to spike rate representing an optically isolated ommatidium. The spike generating mechanism of the axon (FM) is represented phenomenologically by a relaxation oscillator in which some internal variable integrates the input voltage to a criterion value, whereupon a spike fires and the integral is reset. The input voltage is the algebraic sum of the generator potential and the summed self-inhibitory potential. The results show that both the driven response and the stochastic component of the response are adequately explained by a model that assumes the superposition of discrete electrical events whose mean size adjusts to ambient light intensity. The frequency response of the generator potential is enhanced by neural feedback, which quantitatively explains the remarkable sensitivity of the photoreceptor to flickering light.
A study of triflupromazine in dominant-lethal, cytogenetic and host-mediated assays.

Abstract The phenothiazine psychotherapeutant, triflupromazine (TFP), was studied for mutagenic potential in dominant-lethal, in vivo and in vitro cytogenetic and host-mediated assay procedures. No evidence of gross chromosomal aberrations or point mutations was detected in these assays even at dosage regimens which produced substantial lethality. The effect of the drug on body temperature was measured at the same doses used for mutagenicity testing. A marked and sustained temperature reduction occurs shortly after administration of as little as 10 mg/kg. Due to the pronounced physiological effects at these levels, the validity of mutagenicity studies conducted at the same levels may be seriously questioned.
Validity of the single limb heel raise test to predict lower extremity disablement in patients with sporadic inclusion body myositis

AbstractPurpose: To determine the validity of the single limb heel raise (SLHR) test as a potential screening tool to detect lower extremity disability in patients with sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM). Methods: We compared gait speed and fall history between subjects with sIBM who either could complete one SLHR (SLHR group) or could not complete one SLHR. Discriminative validity was established by comparing between group differences in functional measures based on group assignment. Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis was used to determine the predictive validity of completing one repetition on the SLHR test. Spearman correlations were used to determine the association between gait kinematics and number of repetitions achieved on the SLHR test. Results: Forty-three subjects (13 females) were studied. The SLHR group (n = 21) showed significantly greater gait speed (p < 0.001) and decreased gait aid use (p < 0.05) compared to the no SLHR group (n = 22). SLHR cut scores of 1, 20, and 22 ...
Comment on “Search for atmospheric holes with the Viking cameras” by L. A. Frank et al.

Commentaire de l'article de Frank L.A. et al. (1989, Geophys. Res. Lett., 16) et reponse des auteurs
The lateral hypothalamic syndrome: Comparison with the syndrome of anorexia nervosa

Abstract The lateral hypothalamic syndrome of feeding disorders may not involve the hypothalamus per se, nor is it simply an impairment of feeding behavior. Recent work has forced revisions in traditional concepts regarding the role of the hypothalamus in the control of feeding. At present, it seems clear that hypothalamic damage disrupts nonspecific contributions to feeding behavior, by damaging dopaminergic and other fibers of passage coursing through the ventral diencephalon, and that the resultant aphagia reflects a general disruption of all voluntary behavior that includes feeding but is not restricted to it. Neurological dysfunctions such as akinesia, catalepsy, and sensory neglect are prominent and indicate a broad activational disorder reminiscent of Parkinson's disease. In the absence of a clear notion of how feeding is controlled by the brain, it seems premature to consider animals with experimental lesions in the hypothalamus (or elsewhere in the brain) as appropriate models of anorexia nervosa.
An experimental search for dipole structure of the electron

Abstract By measuring absolute cross sections for the elastic scattering of electrons from the α particle, a determination of the quantity α(q) = [λ 2 (q) + μ 2 (q)] 1 2 has been found, where λ(q) and μ(q) are structure form factors of an electric dipole moment and an anomalous magnetic dipole moment of the electron. They are functions of the four-momentum transfer q. The result is α(Q) = (9.3 ± 6) × 1010−5 eh/moc, with an additional uncertainty of ± 7 × 10−5(eℏ/moc), for Q ≦ 2.25 × 1013cm. The experiment also determines the charge form factor of the α particle. The data correspond to the scattering from a Gaussian charge distribution having an rms radius of (1.68 ± 0.04) × 10−13cm.
Are mirror neurons the basis of speech perception? Evidence from five cases with damage to the purported human mirror system

The discovery of mirror neurons in macaque has led to a resurrection of motor theories of speech perception. Although the majority of lesion and functional imaging studies have associated perception with the temporal lobes, it has also been proposed that the ‘human mirror system’, which prominently includes Broca's area, is the neurophysiological substrate of speech perception. Although numerous studies have demonstrated a tight link between sensory and motor speech processes, few have directly assessed the critical prediction of mirror neuron theories of speech perception, namely that damage to the human mirror system should cause severe deficits in speech perception. The present study measured speech perception abilities of patients with lesions involving motor regions in the left posterior frontal lobe and/or inferior parietal lobule (i.e., the proposed human ‘mirror system’). Performance was at or near ceiling in patients with fronto-parietal lesions. It is only when the lesion encroaches on auditory ...
Quantitative Analysis of Qualitative Data.

This paper presents an overview of an approach to the quantitative analysis of qualitative data with theoretical and methodological explanations of the two cornerstones of the approach, Alternating Least Squares and Optimal Scaling. Using these two principles, my colleagues and I have extended a variety of analysis procedures originally proposed for quantitative (interval or ratio) data to qualitative (nominal or ordinal) data, including additivity analysis and analysis of variance; multiple and canonical regression; principal components; common factor and three mode factor analysis; and multidimensional scaling. The approach has two advantages: (a) If a least squares procedure is known for analyzing quantitative data, it can be extended to qualitative data; and (b) the resulting algorithm will be convergent. Three completely worked through examples of the additivity analysis procedure and the steps involved in the regression procedures are presented.
The Madonna and Child Miniature in the Book of Kells, Part II

In what form was the symbolic program which persuaded the painters of the Kells Gospels to create the images on folios 7v, 1r and 32V introduced to the British Isles? Precedents for the architectural Canon Tables, cruciform pages, enlarged initial pages and Evangelist portraits in the Book are found in Insular or Continental illumination.90 Of the narrative scenes, the Temptation may depend, perhaps indirectly, on Byzantine book illustration.91 With the Arrest92 (and the paintings originally planned and those that have been lost), it becomes part of a cycle of Gospel scenes. Since isolated Insular full-page historical illustrations created before the late eighth century exist,93 it is likely that Gospel Books with elaborate narrative cycles were circulating in the British Isles before the Book of Kells was begun. In any event, there can be little doubt that the Kells narrative miniatures were based on manuscript models. And there are indications that the symbolic pages were similarly inspired. Majestas il...
Validated protocol for FoxP3 reveals increased expression in type 1 diabetes patients.

Background: FoxP3 has become a key identifier of regulatory T cells. Investigators have used a variety of antibodies and methods for detecting FoxP3 by flow cytometry. To standardize FoxP3 antibody staining for use in clinical trial samples, we tested various antibodies from different vendors, cell preparation protocols and fix/perm reagents, and cell isolation procedures. Using this optimized staining protocol, we evaluated clinical specimens from patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) or type 1 diabetes. Methods: FoxP3 antibodies from eBioscience (236A/E7 and PCH101) and BioLegend (206D) were evaluated along with their respective methods and fix/perm reagents for preparation and staining of FoxP3 for flow cytometry. Fresh washed blood and frozen or fresh PBMC were evaluated. Upon optimization of the protocol, clinical samples (frozen PBMC) from patients with MS or type 1 diabetes and healthy control donors were evaluated with the BioLegend antibody. Results: Clone 206D from BioLegend yielded optimal staining and the fix/perm reagents from both eBioscience and BioLegend were comparable. Data were also comparable between cells separated by Ficoll (fresh or frozen) and washed blood samples, allowing this protocol to be applicable to different types of samples. We validated this protocol using clinical samples and saw a significant increase in FoxP3 expression in the patients with type 1 diabetes but not in the MS. Conclusions: The results from this study will allow the assessment of FoxP3 by flow cytometry on samples from clinical sites that are analyzed in real time on fresh blood or frozen PBMC. q 2008 Clinical
Expectancy theory outcomes and student evaluations of teaching

As student evaluation of teaching (SET) instruments are increasingly administered online, research has found that the response rates have dropped significantly. Validity concerns have necessitated research that explores student motivation for completing SETs. This study uses Vroom's [(1964). Work and motivation (3rd ed.). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons] expectancy theory to frame student focus group responses regarding their motivations for completing and not completing paper and online SETs. Results show that students consider the following outcomes when deciding whether to complete SETs: (a) course improvement, (b) appropriate instructor tenure and promotion, (c) accurate instructor ratings are available to students, (d) spending reasonable amount of time on SETs, (e) retaining anonymity, (f) avoiding social scrutiny, (g) earning points and releasing grades, and (h) being a good university citizen. Results show that the lower online response rate is largely due to students’ differing feelings of obliga...
Ultraviolet imaging polarimeter for observing polar mesospheric clouds

To study the polarization of sunlight scattered from polar mesospheric clouds (PMC) and the Rayleigh scattering from the upper atmosphere, we designed, constructed, and flew an ultraviolet imaging polarimeter (UVIP). A rocket-borne experiment, the UVIP consists of: an f/2 baffled telescope with a focal length of 76 mm; a filter/polarizer wheel with spectral bandpass and UV polarizing filters; a diode image intensifier; a thermoelectrically cooled, self-scanned diode array; and driver-interface electronics. The three polarization measurements are at 265 nm (8 nm spectral bandpass). Also, an unpolarized filter at 190 nm (20 nm bandpass) provides the color ratio 195 nm/265 nm. The Earth's limb is imaged onto the 128 pixels of the detector, observing tangent heights of 40 - 150 km with a height resolution of approximately equals 2 km. Previous optical measurements of PMC ice crystals indicate the particle scattering is Rayleigh-like, suggesting very high polarizations. To measure PMC against the ambient Rayleigh scatter requires 1% precision in polarization. Since we accurately know the polarization of the Rayleigh background, the technique is self-calibrating. We present the design of this instrument and example data from two rocket flights.
Effects of Evaluative Feedback on the Subjective Probability of Success

Summary This study investigated the extent to which success experiences may influence both self-evaluations of performance on an initial task and expectations concerning performance on a second task. One hundred and eight male and female college students played a game in which they experienced high, moderate, or low success and then estimated their future performance on a similar or dissimilar second game. This study differed from previous investigations in that no verbal evaluative feedback was given to the Ss. While success experiences did result in the predicted self-evaluations even in the absence of verbal feedback, these experiences did not significantly affect expectations of future success.
A relation between the surface energy and the Debye temperature for cubic solids

It is shown that a phenomenological relation exists between the Debye temperature θ (in degree Kelvin) and the surface energy Γ (in ergs/cm2) of cubic solids:, where M is the atomic weight. This relation is derived theoretically in the Debye isotropic approximation by assuming that the interatomic potential is central. No restrictions are imposed on the range of the potential. The relation is obeyed very well by the observed values of θ and Γ in the case of many solids.
Increased Foot Pressures After Great Toe Amputation in Diabetes

OBJECTIVE To compare peak pressures on the sole of the foot in non-insulin-dependent diabetic patients with isolated, unilateral amputations of the great toe and first metatarsal with the patients' contralateral, intact foot. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Eleven patients with a unilateral great toe and partial first metatarsal amputation of at least 6 months duration were evaluated with the F-Scan in-shoe pressure measurement system. Patients were studied in the same brand and style of footwear—a thin, rubber-soled, canvas boat shoe. We compared mean peak plantar foot pressures under the first metatarsal, lesser metatarsals, lesser toes, and heel in feet with and without a great toe amputation using the Wilcoxon's matched pairs signed-rank test. RESULTS Peak foot pressures were significantly higher under the first metatarsal head ( P = 0.046), lesser metatarsal heads ( P < 0.001), and toes ( P < 0.001) in feet with a great toe amputation compared with the contralateral foot without an amputation. Pressure under the heel was higher on the contralateral foot ( P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS After a great toe amputation, pressure distribution of the foot is significantly altered. Because preamputation risk factors such as peripheral neuropathy, foot deformity, and limited joint mobility for many of these patients remain unchanged, an increase in foot pressures contributes to an increased risk of reulceration and reamputation in these patients.
Oscillations of a Weakly Ionized Plasma in a Strong Electric Field

The stability of a weakly ionized plasma in a strong electric field against the formation of longitudinal waves is investigated theoretically in the hydrodynamic limit $\mathrm{ql}\ensuremath{\ll}1$ where $q$ is the wave number, and $l$ is a relaxation length related to the mean free paths of the charge carriers. Applications of the theory to semiconductors and gases are considered. The behavior of the charge carriers in response to slowly varying disturbances is dominated by their collisions with the lattice or the neutral atoms, implying that an approximate equilibrium is maintained between the local field and the local densities, drift velocities, and effective temperatures of the carriers. The mean thermal energy or effective temperature of the electrons in the steady state depends on the magnitude of the applied field and can be much greater than the lattice or neutral-atom temperature. In general, this means that the electron mobility is also field-dependent. It is shown that this field dependence and the local equilibrium condition can lead to temperature oscillations which affect the phase velocity and damping of excitations resembling ion-acoustic waves. It is predicted that when the applied field exceeds a critical value the damping constant will change sign, and the system will become unstable. The feasibility of detecting this instability is discussed, and comparisons with other instabilities are made.
Pathogenicity of Campylobacter jejuni in intraperitoneally or intravenously inoculated ferrets

Ferret kits inoculated intravenously (IV) withCampylobacter jejuni after pretreatment with parenteral iron developed more severe systemic signs and more prolonged bacteremia than untreated inoculated controls. Watery diarrhea began in both groups 2–16 h after inoculation and lasted less than 48 h.C. jejuni was cultured from rectal swabs 2–8 h after inoculation, and gut colonization persisted up to 15 days, suggesting that colonization does not necessarily induce diarrhea. Gut colonization occurred as rapidly after IV inoculation of ferrets in which the common bile duct had been ligated as it did in unligated controls.C. jejuni apparently reached the intestinal lumen by mucosal invasion from the bloodstream. Bacteremia following natural infection could thus result in repeated passages ofC. jejuni across the gut wall, exposing the mucosa to both the bacterial cells and their metabolic products. Histological evidence of an inflammatory response in the mucosa, without severe epithelial damage, suggests a toxin-mediated secretory diarrhea.
University Preparation of School Principals.

Abstract In the academic year 1987–1988 24 primary school Headteachers were interviewed about the appraisal of their managerial performance. In the course of the interviews the Heads discussed their perceptions of their jobs and what they perceived as the changing nature of their roles. They felt under considerable pressure to focus on the administrative and managerial aspects of headship and to reduce the time they spent in teaching. There was evidence that they found the non‐teaching tasks were increasing markedly in recent years in primary schools. They did not, however, appear to consider delegation of these tasks to other staff to be an appropriate strategy. This paper then goes on to consider issues surrounding delegation and collegial structures and makes recommendations about levels of consultation in primary schools.