cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structurally stable heteroclinic cycles

This paper describes a previously undocumented phenomenon in dynamical systems theory; namely, the occurrence of heteroclinic cycles that are structurally stable within the space of Cr vector fields equivariant with respect to a symmetry group. In the space X(M) of Cr vector fields on a manifold M, there is a residual set of vector fields having no trajectories joining saddle points with stable manifolds of the same dimension. Such heteroclinic connections are a structurally unstable phenomenon [4]. However, in the space XG(M) ⊂ X(M) of vector fields equivariant with respect to a symmetry group G, the situation can be quite different. We give an example of an open set U of topologically equivalent vector fields in the space of vector fields on ℝ3 equivariant with respect to a particular finite subgroup G ⊂ O(3) such that each X ∈ U has a heteroclinic cycle that is an attractor. The heteroclinic cycles consist of three equilibrium points and three trajectories joining them.
Urinary transforming growth factor beta-1 as a marker of renal dysfunction in sickle cell disease

Renal dysfunction affects 5–18% of patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). To date, no studies have described urinary levels of transforming growth factor β-1 (TGF-β1), a marker of fibrosis, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), a marker of acute/chronic kidney disease, as biomarkers in identifying patients at risk of developing renal disease in SCD. We hypothesized that SCD subjects will have increased urinary excretion of TGF-β1 and NGAL compared with healthy controls (CTR). We examined 51 SCD subjects: 42 HbSS, 8 HbSC, and 1 HbSD. Sixteen out of 42 patients with HbSS were on hydroxyurea (HU). Urinary excretion of TGF-β1 was 26.4 ± 1.5 pg/mgCr in SCD subjects vs 15.0 ± 2.4 pg/mgCr in CTR (p < 0.00001). SCD patients with hemoglobin < 9 g/dl had higher urinary TGF-β1 than patients with milder anemia (p = 0.002). Urinary TGF-β1 trended lower in HbSS patients treated with HU (23.61 ± 2.6 pg/mgCr), vs patients not on HU (27.69 ± 1.8 pg/mgCr; p = 0.055). There was no correlation between urinary TGF-β1 and microalbuminuria or estimated glomerular function. There was no difference in urinary NGAL in SCD patients vs CTR. We suggest that urinary TGF-β1 may serve as a marker of early renal injury in SCD.
Out-of-hospital sudden coronary death: Rest and exercise radionuclide left ventricular function in survivors

Abstract One hundred fifty-four survivors of out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation (VF) with coronary artery disease underwent radionuclide ventriculography an average of 4.2 months after VF. All patients were studied at rest, and 91 of these patients were also studied during supine bicycle exercise. Clinical histories and 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiograms were also assessed, and patients were followed for an average of 3.1 years after ventriculography. The mean left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) at rest was 40 ± 16%; in 34% of patients, it was 30% or less; in 37%, 31 to 50%; and in 29%, more than 50%. Regional LV wall motion was normal in 18%. The most severe segmental abnormality was hypokinesia in 22%, akinesia in 45% and dyskinesia in 14%. Wall motion abnormalities were usually located at the apex. During exercise, only 3% of patients (3 of 91) had a normal increase in EF of more than 5%, and the mean EF decreased from 42 to 38%. New exercise-induced wall motion abnormalities occurred in 30%. During the follow-up period, 54 patients died (35%): 48 from cardiac causes and 42 from unexpected and sudden causes. Predictors of death included EF at rest, presence of akinesia or dyskinesia on the ventriculogram at rest, the number of abnormal LV segments, history of congestive heart failure, history of acute myocardial infarction, absence of acute myocardial infarction at the time of VF and the presence of ventricular arrhythmia. In a stepwise regression analysis, EF at rest, arrhythmia frequency, history of congestive heart failure and absence of acute infarction at the time of VF were selected as independently predictive for death, with EF selected first. When all clinical variables were forced into the model, only EF added significant predictive information; other radionuclide measurements as well as ambulatory electrocardiographic arrhythmia frequencies were of no or borderline significance. In conclusion, the radionuclide LVEF at rest is the best predictor of death in patients resuscitated from out-of-hospital VF. The diversity of rest and exercise levels of LV function suggest multifactorial pathophysiologic mechanisms in this syndrome.
Photosynthesis, Photorespiration and Respiration of Chloroplasts From Acetabularia mediterrania

A chloroplast fraction isolated from Acetabularia mediterrania carries on photosynthesis at rates essentially equal to those of whole cells. Electron and phase contrast microscopy reveals that the chloroplasts are intact and well preserved. Preparations contain no identifiable peroxisomes, but some cytoplasmic and mitochondrial contamination is present. Photosynthesis and CO2 production in light by chloroplast preparations are in many respects similar to that of bean leaves, although the measured rates are somewhat lower. Respiration and photosynthesis of chloroplast preparations and whole cells of Acetabularia is essentially similar except that cells have a strong dark-type respiration which continues in light and is CO2 dependent, the substrate being mainly recent photosynthate. The data suggest that chloroplasts are the site of photorespiration.
Mood disorders in intellectual disability.

Purpose of reviewThis article examines reviews and research on the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders in people with intellectual disability published from September 2004 to December 2005.Recent findingsPatients with intellectual disability have limitations in verbal ability, and with increas
Modelling flexible manufacturing systems using mean-value analysis

Abstract Flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) represent an important new development in automated manufacturing of parts with mid-volume demand. In the design and operation of these complex systems, it is useful to have tools that predict their performance under various conditions. This paper describes one such tool called MVAQ, a computer program based on mean-value analysis of queues. Part production rates, machine utilization and average work-in-process sizes are all easily obtained using MVAQ. The reader is advised on when MVAQ should be used for modelling FMSs and how the program can be used. A simple design example is given to illustrate the use of MVAQ. A brief tutorial on the theory behind MVAQ is also included.
The Danish Cartoon Controversy and the Exclusivist Turn in European Civic Nationalism

The Danish cartoon controversy raises questions about the inclusiveness of Western European civic nationalism. The controversy highlighted a harsh, exclusivist brand of Danish civic nationalism that cast Muslim migrants as outsiders. The controversy also saw a broader group of cartoon supporters from across Europe fault Muslims for failing to respect liberal traditions of freedom of speech and secularism, traditions now explicitly labeled ‘European’. However, others pushed the debate in a more open direction by defending the Jyllands Posten's freedom of expression in ethnically neutral terms and explicitly challenging the contrast between an enlightened Europe and an intolerant Muslim other.
Baseline caries risk assessment as a predictor of caries incidence.

Abstract Few studies have evaluated clinical outcomes following caries risk assessment in large datasets that reflect risk assessments performed during routine practice. Objectives From clinical records, compare 18-month caries incidence according to baseline caries risk designation. Methods For this retrospective cohort study, data were collected from electronic records of non-edentulous adult patients who completed an oral examination and caries risk assessment (CRA) at a university instructional clinic from 2007 to 2012 (N = 18,004 baseline patients). The primary outcome was the number of new decayed/restored teeth from the initial CRA to the ensuing oral examination, through June 30, 2013 (N = 4468 patients with follow-up). We obtained doubly-robust estimates for 18-month caries increment by baseline CRA category (low, moderate, high, extreme), adjusted for patient characteristics (age, sex, payer type, race/ethnicity, number of teeth), provider type, and calendar year. Results Adjusted mean decayed, restored tooth (DFT) increment from baseline to follow-up was greater with each rising category of baseline caries risk, from low (0.94), moderate (1.26), high (1.79), to extreme (3.26). The percentage of patients with any newly affected teeth (DFT increment > 0) was similar among low-risk and moderate-risk patients (cumulative incidence ratio, RR: 1.01; 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.83, 1.23), but was increased relative to low-risk patients among high-risk (RR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.10, 1.52), and extreme-risk patients (RR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.23, 1.87). Conclusions These results lend evidence that baseline caries risk predicts future caries in this setting, supporting the use of caries risk assessment to identify candidate patients for more intensive preventive therapy. Clinical significance Identification of patients at greater risk for future caries helps clinicians to plan appropriate personalized care. In this study, a multifactorial approach to caries risk assessment effectively stratified patients into groups of higher or lower caries propensity. Dentists can apply risk assessment in practice antecedent to patient-tailored caries management.
Hyperfiltration studies x. Hyperfiltration with dynamically-formed membranes☆☆☆

Abstract The usual configuration projected for the hyperfiltration (reverse osmosis) desalination process utilizes specially cast cellulose acetate membranes placed on suitable supports. We have found that salt-rejecting interfacial layers or membranes with frequently remarkably high permeation rates can be formed dynamically on porous bodies when certain additives are present in the pressurized feed solutions. Materials with nominal pore diameters near one micron may be used; rejecting layers have been formed dynamically on substrates with pore diameters as high as 5 microns. After initial formation of the membranes, very low concentrations of additives, of the order of 1 ppm are frequently sufficient to maintain their properties. The additives which so far have given the most interesting results would be expected to form ion-exchange membranes. Examples are: organic polyelectrolytes, colloidal dispersions of hydrous oxides, solutions of hydrolyzable ions, ground-up low-cross-linked ion-exchange beads, and certain natural products such as clays and humic acid. For these, dependence of rejection on feed concentration and on the charge type of the salt is generally consistent with an ion-exchange mechanism for rejection. Membranes have also been formed from neutral (uncharged) additives. The chemical nature of the porous body on which the membranes are dynamically deposited does not seem of primary importance. Membranes have been formed on porous silver and other porous metals, porcelain, porous carbons, sintered glass, and “Millipore” filters. The principal potential advantages of this class of membranes are their high production rates, frequently several hundred gallons ft-2 day-1, the simplicity of their formation, and the possibility of making them “self-healing”. In addition, some solutes which are to be removed from feeds are capable of forming dynamic membranes, which in a sense are then “self-rejecting”. With the dynamic membranes so far developed, salt rejection is less than with cellulose acetate and, for most, rejection decreases with increasing salt concentration. In addition, performance is often deleteriously affected by presence of polyvalent counter-ions in the feed solutions. At the present stage of development these dynamic membranes thus seem likely to be more applicable to the treatment of low concentration saline feeds, wastes and polluted waters, than to high concentration feeds.
Design Process and Philosophy of TVA'S Latest Advance Control Room Complex

TVA's latest nuclear power plant control room design includes a greater emphasis on human factors as compared to our earlier plant designs. This emphasis has resulted in changes in the overall design philosophy and design process. This paper discusses some of the prominent design features of both the control room and the surrounding control room complex. In addition, it also presents some of the important activities involved in the process of developing the advanced control room design.
Collision-Based Ionization: Bridging the Gap between Chemical Ionization and Aerosol Particle Diffusion Charging

In diffusion charging theory, it is assumed that each ion–particle collision leads to the transfer of charge from ion to particle, and that charge transfer will not occur upon collision between a vapor molecule and a charged particle. However, in chemical ionization, charge transfer can occur in two directions—from charge-donating ion to vapor molecule and back from charged vapor molecule to the original charge-donating species. Both aerosol diffusion charging and chemical ionization are collision-based charge transfer processes, and for particles only slightly larger than vapor molecules (aerosol clusters), the line between diffusion charging and chemical ionization becomes blurred. We examined the charge transfer from aerosol clusters (positively charged amino acid clusters) in the ∼1.0 nm size range to neutral vapor molecules (trimethylamine) at atmospheric pressure by using a combined experimental and theoretical approach. It was found that for singly charged amino acid cluster ions composed of 1, 2, ...
Resource use: the complexity of time and energy management in clothing maintenance

The research study examined time management and energy consumption with respect to clothing care. The investigation analysed data and information obtained in the NE-113 Family Time-Use Study collected in 1977–1978. Differences were found between urban and rural households and among different states. Occupational types of home manager, day of the week, education and age of children were variables accounting for differences in clothing care activities. The results have significance for a better understanding of how modem households meet the demands of clothing care management.
Dynamics of microbial biomass and activity in five habitats of the Okefenokee Swamp ecosystem.

A variety of freshwater marsh and swamp habitats are found interspersed in a mosaic pattern throughout the Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia, USA. We examined spatial and temporal patterns in standing stocks and activity in the microbial community of five habitats within this heterogeneous ecosystem. Standing stock dynamics were studied by measuring microbial biomass (ATP) and bacterial numbers (AODC) in both water and sediments over a 14 month period. Abundance varied temporally, being generally lower in winter months than in spring and summer months. However, a large proportion of the measured variability was not correlated with temporal patterns in temperature or with bulk nutrient levels. Spatial variability was characteristic of the Okefenokee at a variety of large and small scales. Habitat-level heterogeneity was evident when microbial standing stocks and activity (measured as [14C]lignocellulose mineralization) were compared across the five communities, although abundance differences among sites were restricted to nonwinter months when microbial biomass was high. Spatial variation within habitats was also found; patches of surface sediment with differing microbial activity or abundance were measured at scales from 30 cm to 150 m.
Prospective prediction of college adjustment using self- and informant-rated personality traits.

Studies that relate normal personality traits to students’ adjustment to college have relied heavily on self-rating methods, concurrent designs, and academic performance indicators as criteria. We conducted a prospective study of high school seniors with a follow-up assessment made near the end of their freshman year of college. Self-ratings of personality traits and college adjustment were obtained from 90 students using the Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO PI–R; Costa & McCrae, 1992) and the Student Adaptation to College Questionnaire (SACQ; Baker & Siryk, 1989). Ratings of personality were also obtained from parents (n = 66) and same-sex peers from the college setting (n = 78) using the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO–FFI; Costa & McCrae, 1992). SACQ Academic Adjustment was correlated with Conscientiousness ratings by all three sources and with Openness ratings by parents and peers. SACQ Social Adjustment was correlated with self-ratings of Neuroticism and peer ratings of Extraversion. SACQ Person...
Selective epitaxial growth of silicon in pancake reactors

Abstract Selective epitaxial growth (SEG) of silicon opens new avenues in electronic device design by allowing vertical (three dimensional) integrated circuits to be fabricated and isolation between devices to be vastly improved. In this work selective epitaxial silicon deposition is performed in an RF-heated pancake reactor onto three inch SiO 2 masked (100) silicon wafers. Dichlorosilane (SiH 2 Cl 2 ) is used as the silicon source and HCl is continuously fed into the reactor so that nucleation of silicon on SiO 2 is prevented. Growth rates are found to be on the order of 0.1 μm/min at a total reactor pressure of 150 torr and a substrate temperature greater than 900 ° C. A new detailed mathematical model of SEG in a pancake reactor is presented. It includes all mass, energy and momentum equations coupled with the special geometry, inlet and exhaust configuration typically used in pancake reactors. Predictions from our mathematical model are seen to be in satisfactory agreement with data obtained in the RF-heated Purdue pancake reactor. Some recommendations with respect to the optimization of such systems are also discussed.
Admissible estimators of binomial probability and the inverse bayes rule map

Explicit formulae for prior distribution moments through values of the Bayes estimator of binomial probability are obtained. These are used to derive a new admissibility criterion.
Influence of Pre-Laying Dietary Calcium upon Tibial 45CA Uptake in 20-Week-Old Pullets

Abstract At 5, 10 and 15 weeks of age, 20 pullets were changed from a 1.30% Ca diet to one containing 0.65 or 2.60% Ca. At 19 weeks of age, half these pullets were changed to a 2.00% Ca diet. Ten pullets each were fed the 0.65% and 2.60% Ca diets from hatching to the termination of the experiment. At 20 weeks of age, all the pullets were administered 45 Ca into the crop and sacrificed 24 hours later. Changing the diet had no significant effect on 45 Ca deposition in the tibia regardless of the time the change was made as long as all the groups compared were fed the same final diets. However, the pullets fed the 0.65% Ca diet deposited more 45 Ca in their tibias than did those fed the 2.60 or 2.00% Ca diet. Adaptation to calcium fed prior to laying was not the result of altered absorption and subsequent deposition of calcium in the skeletal pool.
Consumer acceptance of genetically modified potaoes

Slow consumer acceptance has inhibited the market for genetically modified (GM) potato products. Logistic growth functions were used to model market development patterns for three comparable products — diet sodas, frozen potatoes and microwave ovens. Predictions of GMpotato acceptance were based on averages for the comparable products. The model predicts that consumer acceptance will be in the introduction stage of the product life cycle for 14 years. The predicted growth stage of acceptance will begin in 2009 and last for two decades. The timeline may be compressed or lengthened depending on the influences of the biotechnology industry and anti-GM activists.
The phenology–substrate‐match hypothesis explains decomposition rates of evergreen and deciduous oak leaves

Summary There is substantial evidence that the rate of litter decomposition is affected by the match between the litter substrate and the soil matrix (decomposer community). We introduce and test the phenology–substrate-match hypothesis, which predicts that both litter composition and soil matrix will change over the course of the year and that a lagged match between litter type and soil matrix will result in an optimal decomposition environment. We conducted a decomposition experiment in a Mediterranean mixed deciduous–evergreen oak savanna in California. We initiated litter decomposition of both a deciduous oak (whose leaves fall in autumn) and an evergreen oak (whose leaves fall in spring) in both autumn and spring. Consistent with the phenology–substrate-match hypothesis, we found that decomposition of deciduous oak litter was accelerated compared to evergreen oak litter when decomposition was initiated in spring, while evergreen litter was accelerated compared to deciduous litter when decomposition was initiated in autumn. We also found a small effect of microsite on leaf decomposition, where both evergreen and deciduous oak leaves decomposed faster under the canopy of a conspecific. Synthesis. Our study extends theory of litter quality and the decomposer community into a temporal context, which may be an important source of variation in decomposition rates when species with different litterfall phenologies co-occur.
The cuneiform tablets of 2015

We discuss the problem of running today's software decades, centuries, or even millennia into the future.
The association between femtosecond laser flap parameters and ocular aberrations after uncomplicated custom myopic LASIK.

To investigate the association between femtosecond laser flap parameters, uncorrected distance visual acuity, and higher-order aberrations (HOA) after customized myopic LASIK. Retrospective review of the charts of patients who underwent uncomplicated wavefront-guided customized myopic LASIK with flap creation using the femtosecond laser. Patients were stratified by intended flap thickness, and the change in HOA from preoperative to 3 months postoperative was compared. Multivariate linear models were performed to assess the association between calculated flap thickness, intended flap diameter, HOA, and uncorrected visual acuity. One hundred seventy-one eyes of 171 patients were included. There was no statistically significant difference in the induction of HOA between eyes with thin (90 μm) or thick (100 or 110 μm) intended flaps. In a multivariate model, the level of myopic correction was highly associated with the induction of total HOA, coma, and spherical aberration. There was no correlation between calculated flap thickness, uncorrected visual acuity, or HOAs. Intended flap diameter was not associated with coma or spherical aberration, but larger flap diameter was associated with better uncorrected visual acuity. Femtosecond laser flap thickness in the range of 90–110 μm was not associated with uncorrected visual acuity or the induction of HOA after uncomplicated customized myopic LASIK. The level of myopic correction was the largest determinant of the induction of HOA.
Limits To Size For Terrestrial Telescopes: Two-Stage Optics

A wave front corrector inserted at the image of a surface producing an error can remove the wave front error over a reasonable field of view. The relationship of magnitude of error, constants of a given configuration, and the residual wave front error is explored. Results are presented of the production of a sample wave front error surface by diamond turning with the Large Optical Diamond Turning Machine (LODTM). The cost consequences of this new ability to upgrade a submillimeter-quality telescope to a high-acuity optical telescope are shown.
Evidence for structural changes in vertebrate thick filaments induced by calcium.

Abstract Paired sedimentation studies of isolated, native thick filaments at pH 6.8, I = 0.12 and in the presence of 0.3 m m -free Mg 2+ show that the sedimentation coefficient increases with Ca 2+ concentration (pCa † midpoint = 5.5), leveling off at pCa 4.7. The addition of ATP or ADP (5 m m ) has no effect on the hydrodynamic changes induced by Ca 2+ . At much higher free Mg 2+ concentrations (5 m m ), the midpoint of the transition is shifted to pCa = 5.3. Viscosity measurements of the filament system under comparable conditions reveal a decrease in the relative viscosity over the same range of Ca 2+ concentration. Synthetic filaments prepared from purified myosin free of C-protein also show the same behavior. Native filaments from which myosin heads have been removed by treatment with papain do not show Ca 2+ dependence. The dependence of the sedimentation coefficient of filament on protein concentration, as measured by differential sedimentation, is unaffected by Ca 2+ , indicating that the changes in hydrodynamic properties are probably not related to aggregation of the filaments. The Ca 2+ effects are reversible and are not observed on replacing Ca 2+ by Mg 2+ . Binding studies carried out at low ionic strength reveal two binding sites for Ca 2+ ( K a = 1.7 × 10 5 m −1 ) per mole myosin within the filament and evidence is presented showing that the DTNB light chain is the site of binding. The combined results are interpreted as indicating that thick filaments of vertebrate muscle undergo conformational changes at physiological levels of Ca 2+ and provide evidence for a Ca 2+ -sensitive regulatory mechanism at the level of the thick filament.
An indirect test for whether restricting Medicaid funding for abortion increases pregnancy-avoidance behavior

Abstract This study indirectly tests whether restrictions on Medicaid funding for abortion increase pregnancy-avoidance behavior by investigating the restrictions’ impacts on gonorrhea rates. Results fail to find evidence that restrictions reduce gonorrhea rates significantly, thus suggesting that restrictions fail to promote pregnancy-avoidance behavior.
Intersubband dynamics in modulation doped quantum wells

Abstract A theoretical investigation of the dynamics of intersubband transitions in modulation doped multiple narrow GaAs / Al x Ga 1− x As quantum well structures by emission of GaAs (well) and Al x Ga 1− x As (barrier) slab and interface mode polar optical phonons is presented. Photo-excited carrier behavior is interpreted via Monte Carlo simulations which predict long time constants for electron relaxation.
Gender differences in self handicapping: Regardless of academic or social competence implications

Research fairly consistently shows that men self-handicap more than women. This study investigated whether this gender difference depends on the particular domain of the task in which the women and men engage. To set the stage for self-handicapping, the 40 male and 40 female participants were provided with non-contingent success feedback about their performance on a task which they were told was reflective of their general academic ability or their social competence. In a 2 × 2 between-subjects design the ex post facto variable of gender was factorially combined with the independent variable of performance implication, either academic ability or social competence. It was predicted that men would be most likely to self-handicap when the task was described as reflective of their academic abilities whereas the women would engage in self-handicapping when the task was described as reflective of their social competence. Contrary to this prediction, this study showed that men self-handicapped more than women regardless of the implications of the task.
Does cointegration of prices of North American softwood lumber species imply nearly perfectly substitutable products

This study uses the Engle–Granger cointegration method to examine the correlation relationship among prices of North American softwood lumber species, wood-based panel prices, and US single-family ...
Bilateral abdominoscrotal hydrocele : a case report

A 13-month-old boy, who had been diagnosed in utero as having bilateral hydroceles, was found to have bilateral abdominoscrotal hydroceles. To date, there has been only one previous case of bilateral abdominoscrotal hydroceles in an infant. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to make the diagnosis: bilateral dumbell shaped fluid filled masses were seen in a coronal image. The patient had the abdominoscrotal hydroceles excised through bilateral groin incisions. The postoperative course was uneventful, without complication. The etiology and diagnosis of abdominoscrotal hydroceles are discussed.
3D combinational curves for accuracy and performance analysis of positive biometrics identification

The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve has been widely used as an evaluation criterion to measure the accuracy of biometrics system. Unfortunately, such an ROC curve provides no indication of the optimum threshold and cost function. In this paper, two kinds of 3D combinational curves are proposed: the 3D combinational accuracy curve and the 3D combinational performance curve. The 3D combinational accuracy curve gives a balanced view of the relationships among FAR (false alarm rate), FRR (false rejection rate), threshold t, and Cost. Six 2D curves can be derived from the 3D combinational accuracy curve: the conventional 2D ROC curve, 2D curve of (FRR, t), 2D curve of (FAR, t), 2D curve of (FRR, Cost), 2D curve of (FAR, Cost), and 2D curve of (t, Cost). The 3D combinational performance curve can be derived from the 3D combinational accuracy curve which can give a balanced view among Security, Convenience, threshold t, and Cost. The advantages of using the proposed 3D combinational curves are demonstrated by iris recognition systems where the experimental results show that the proposed 3D combinational curves can provide more comprehensive information of the system accuracy and performance.
Involvement of Retinoic Acid/Retinoid Receptors in the Regulation of Murine αB-crystallin/Small Heat Shock Protein Gene Expression in the Lens

Crystallins are a diverse group of abundant soluble proteins that are responsible for the refractive properties of the transparent eye lens. We showed previously that Pax-6 can activate the alphaB-crystallin/small heat shock protein promoter via the lens-specific regulatory regions LSR1 (-147/-118) and LSR2 (-78/-46). Here we demonstrate that retinoic acid can induce the accumulation of alphaB-crystallin in N/N1003A lens cells and that retinoic acid receptor heterodimers (retinoic acid receptor/retinoid X receptor; RAR/RXR) can transactivate LSR1 and LSR2 in cotransfection experiments. DNase I footprinting experiments demonstrated that purified RAR/RXR heterodimers will occupy sequences resembling retinoic acid response elements within LSR1 and LSR2. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays using antibodies indicated that LSR1 and LSR2 can interact with endogenous RAR/RXR complexes in extracts of cultured lens cells. Pax-6 and RAR/RXR together had an additive effect on the activation of alphaB-promoter in the transfected lens cells. Thus, the alphaB-crystallin gene is activated by Pax-6 and retinoic acid receptors, making these transcription factors examples of proteins that have critical roles in early development as well as in the expression of proteins characterizing terminal differentiation.
Non-perturbative behavior of lattice theories with coupled scalars, fermions, and gauge fields☆

Abstract We discuss the phase structure and properties of a Yukawa theory with a real scalar field interacting with staggered fermions via hypercubic and local couplings and comment on the chiral transition with gauge fields.
Power system structure and confidentiality preserving transformation of Optimal Power Flow problem

In this paper we present a method to transform optimal power flow models to enable the sharing of equivalent data sets while preserving privacy of an original data set. Importantly, the generated models preserve a power system structure with certain characteristics chosen by the developer. The needed transformations are presented on the DC Optimal Power Flow (OPF) model.
Lithium effects on adjunctive alcohol consumption in rats

Rats receiving chronic administration of lithium chloride (20 mEq/l) in their drinking water were tested for acquisition of adjunctive alcohol (10% v/v) consumption. Contrary to expectations, subjects receiving lithium acquired the adjunctive drinking more rapidly, and under less optimal conditions, than did control subjects. The high death rate in subjects receiving lithium while undergoing a concurrent alcohol withdrawal suggests that particular caution must be observed when lithium is used in the treatment of alcoholics.
A Simple NOVCA: Near Optimal Vertex Cover Algorithm

Abstract This paper describes an extremely fast polynomial time algorithm, the Near Optimal Vertex Cover Algorithm (NOVCA) that produces an optimal or near optimal vertex cover for any known undirected graph G (V, E). NOVCA constructs the vertex cover by repeatedly adding, at each step, all vertices adjacent to the vertex of minimal degree; in the case of a tie, it selects the one having the maximum sum of degrees of its neighbors. The results identifying bounds on the size of the minimum vertex cover as well as polynomial complexity of algorithm are given with experimental verification. Future research efforts will be directed at tuning the algorithm and providing proof for better approximation ratio with NOVCA compared to any other available vertex cover algorithms.
Predictors of oral health behaviors among elderly Japanese Americans.

As part of a series of studies on oral health behaviors of older persons, 81 elderly Japanese Americans were interviewed regarding their dental service utilization patterns, oral health attitudes, and dental status. The sample consisted of 35 Issei (first generation) and 46 Nisei (second generation) Japanese Americans. Because of the significant age difference between the Issei and Nisei, it was difficult to examine generational differences between the two groups. When age differences were controlled, there was no difference between the two generations in interval since their last dental visit. However, reasons for dental visits differed between the two groups, with the Issei more likely to seek help with dentures or general restorative work while the Nisei were more likely to schedule appointments for dental check-ups and cleaning. The best predictors of dental service utilization for the entire sample were the use of complete dentures, age, and education (R2 = .38), but when the respondent's perceived importance of oral health was entered into the equation, this variable accounted for more variance than age or education. The combination of complete dentures, importance, and age accounted for 41% of the variance in recency of dental service utilization. Locus of control, the belief component of attitudes, and overall attitude scores did not add significantly to the prediction of dental utilization.
Concept learning with three types of verbal labels

Three groups of second grade children learned a concept with different types of verbal labels, while a fourth group learned the concept with no verbal label. Predictably, the Ss learned more rapidly with verbal labels than without. However, labels from different linguistic form classes produced differential learning rates. Further investigation of this finding may provide information relevant to important questions in the area of concept learning.
Nonhuman Primate Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine

Among the various species from which induced pluripotent stem cells have been derived, nonhuman primates (NHPs) have a unique role as preclinical models. Their relatedness to humans and similar physiology, including central nervous system, make them ideal for translational studies. We review here the progress made in deriving and characterizing iPS cell lines from different NHP species. We focus on iPS cell lines from the marmoset, a small NHP in which several human disease states can be modeled. The marmoset can serve as a model for the implementation of patient-specific autologous cell therapy in regenerative medicine.
Some studies on the protease from a novel source: The plantCucurbita ficifolia

An alkaline protease from the plantCucurbita ficifolia was studied using corn gluten as a substrate. At 25 units/ml, the enzyme solubilized 61% of the initial insoluble protein in 18.5 hours at pH 7.0, 55°C and 100 g/l of substrate.
Towards a Kantian Moral Psychology or the Practical Effects of Self-Predicating Judgements of Sublimity

AbstractThis essay develops an account of the link between Kant's aesthetics and his ethics. It does so by articulating a Kantian account of moral psychology by way of aesthetic reflective judgements of sublimity. Since judgements of sublimity enrich the picture of a Kantian subject by forcefully revealing the unbounded power of the faculty of reason, I investigate the possibility that judgements of this kind could serve as a basis for moral motivation. The paper first shows how judgements of sublimity help a subject recognize reason's unbounded nature, and proceeds to analyse the practical effects of a subject judging itself sublime. When judgements of sublimity have as their object the unbounded and unsythesizable power of reason, they may thereby serve as the basis for both the recognition of our moral vocation, and the grounds for determining the will to act from respect for it. Since a judgement of sublimity produces for Kant the experience of an enlivening emotion and an outflowing of vital forces, ...
Idiotypes and the structural diversity of human rheumatoid factors.

It has been shown that IgM-RF paraproteins can be subdivided into two major kappa light chain CRI families, namely the 17.109 CRI and the 6136.6 CRI. The two CRIs have been shown to be distinct and together account for nearly two-thirds of all the kappa light chains of IgM-RF paraproteins. The 17.109 CRI is associated with the VkIIlb sub-subgroup. Both CRIs may also be detected on a non-RF immunoglobulins. The 17.109 CRI is encoded by the conserved Humkv325 (or VkRF) gene. The 6B6.6 CRI is likely encoded by the recently isolated Humkv328 gene. Both CRIB are associated with RFs from patients with rheumatic diseases. The widespread appearance of RFs that are encoded by germline genes or their somatic variants suggest that the molecules are necessary for the survival of the human species. The conservation of genes for RF autoantibodies may be of physiological importance for antigen presentation, for the clearance of immune complexes, and for immune regulation.
Symmetric matrix pencils

Abstract A significant number of matrix eigenvalue problems, quadratic or linear, are best reformulated as pencils (A, M) in which both A and M are real and symmetric. Some examples are given and then the canonical forms are re-examined to explain the role of the sign characteristic attached to real eigenvalues. In addition we examine the limitations on the use of the Rayleigh quotient functional (x, Ax)/(x, Mx) in describing the eigenvalues. This sheds new light on the class of definite pencils and the stability of their eigenvalues under perturbations. The reduction of indefinite pencils to useful sparse forms is mentioned.
Weaning Success of Southern Flounder Juveniles: Effect of Changeover Period and Diet Type on Growth and Survival

Abstract Two studies were conducted to determine the effects of changeover period duration and diet type (dry versus semimoist) on growth and survival of postmetamorphic southern flounder Paralichthys lethostigma during weaning from live feed onto formulated feeds. In the first study, feeding with live brine shrimp Artemia sp. was abruptly stopped after changeover periods of 5, 10, 15, and 20 d. A changeover period of 20 d resulted in significantly higher (P 0.05) from the other treatments or the control (live brine shrimp). In the second study, feeding with live brine shrimp was gradually reduced from 100% to 0% over a 12-d changeover period. Brine shrimp were replaced with either a dry feed or a semimoist feed. Survival of fish fed either the dry feed (71.1 ± 30.1%) or the semimoist feed (71.1 ± 15.4%) was not si...
Fundamental approach to service life of flexible membrane liner's (FML's)

Abstract Predicting the service life of flexible membrane liners (FML's) exposed to chemicals has usually been done by physical or mechanical changes after exposure. The report summarized here presents an alternative approach--that to water for periods up to fifteen months were tested by five different chemicals and transport related measurements. The results indicated that monitoring the transport properties of FML's exposed to particular chemicals over a reasonable exposure time could be considered as one possible method for predicting an FML's lifetime.
Evolution of RNA-protein interactions: non-specific binding led to RNA splicing activity of fungal mitochondrial tyrosyl-tRNA synthetases.

The Neurospora crassa mitochondrial tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase (mtTyrRS; CYT-18 protein) evolved a new function as a group I intron splicing factor by acquiring the ability to bind group I intron RNAs and stabilize their catalytically active RNA structure. Previous studies showed: (i) CYT-18 binds group I introns by using both its N-terminal catalytic domain and flexibly attached C-terminal anticodon-binding domain (CTD); and (ii) the catalytic domain binds group I introns specifically via multiple structural adaptations that occurred during or after the divergence of Peziomycotina and Saccharomycotina. However, the function of the CTD and how it contributed to the evolution of splicing activity have been unclear. Here, small angle X-ray scattering analysis of CYT-18 shows that both CTDs of the homodimeric protein extend outward from the catalytic domain, but move inward to bind opposite ends of a group I intron RNA. Biochemical assays show that the isolated CTD of CYT-18 binds RNAs non-specifically, possibly contributing to its interaction with the structurally different ends of the intron RNA. Finally, we find that the yeast mtTyrRS, which diverged from Pezizomycotina fungal mtTyrRSs prior to the evolution of splicing activity, binds group I intron and other RNAs non-specifically via its CTD, but lacks further adaptations needed for group I intron splicing. Our results suggest a scenario of constructive neutral (i.e., pre-adaptive) evolution in which an initial non-specific interaction between the CTD of an ancestral fungal mtTyrRS and a self-splicing group I intron was “fixed” by an intron RNA mutation that resulted in protein-dependent splicing. Once fixed, this interaction could be elaborated by further adaptive mutations in both the catalytic domain and CTD that enabled specific binding of group I introns. Our results highlight a role for non-specific RNA binding in the evolution of RNA-binding proteins.
Effect of estrogen-containing oral contraceptives on platelet and plasma ascorbic acid concentrations.

Abstract Women taking oral contraceptives exhibited significantl lower platelet ascorbic acid levels than controls at two weeks after both groups had been placed on a low Vitamin C diet. Theoretically, this may alter the negative electrical potential of platelets, which could contribute to the increased incidence of thromboembolic disease.
Life-Threatening Asthma in Children: Treatment With Sodium Bicarbonate Reduces Pco2

Objectives To assess the effect of administration of sodium bicarbonate on carbon dioxide levels in children with life-threatening asthma (LTA) and to evaluate the clinical effect of this treatment Study Design Retrospective study Setting A pediatric ICU (PICU) of a tertiary care university hospital Patients Seventeen children with LTA who received sodium bicarbonate Measurements and results In January 1999, a new protocol for the treatment of LTA was initiated in our institution, incorporating the use of IV sodium bicarbonate in acidotic patients (pH co 2 after sodium bicarbonate infusion (p = 0.007). An improvement of respiratory distress in all but one patient was seen as well Conclusions Administration of sodium bicarbonate in 17 children with LTA was associated with a significant decrease in P co 2 and an improvement of respiratory distress. The possible benefits of sodium bicarbonate in LTA deserve further study in a controlled, prospective design
Aretino's Marescalco: marriage woes and the Duke of Mantua.

Pietro Aretino's 1533 play, Il Marescalco, is in some ways a thoroughly conventional example of Italian Renaissance theatre. Aretino's comedy recounts a practical joke played by the duke of Mantua on his stablemaster, who is led to believe that despite his own sexual orientation toward boys, he must take a wife in order to please his prince. This essay discusses a local historical subtext for the comedy's dark view of marriage and erotic self-determination, and suggests that Il Marescalco is as much about tensions between Pietro Aretino and Federico II Gonzaga as it is about marriage, courtiers, and princely power in the Italian courts of the sixteenth century.
Direct effects of nutrients, acetylcholine, CCK, and insulin on ghrelin release from the isolated stomachs of rats

Ghrelin is a powerful orexigenic peptide predominantly secreted by the stomach. Blood concentration of ghrelin increases before meals and fall postprandial. Its regulation appears to be influenced by the type of macronutrient ingested, the vagus nerve stimulation and by other post-meal stimulated hormonal factors. However, the direct role of nutrients (amino acids or lipids), neuronal (vagal neurotransmitter acetylcholine) and satiety-inducing factor such as CCK are not known. To study this we applied amino acids, lipids, acetylcholine and CCK via vascular perfusion to the isolated stomachs and found that amino acids significantly reduced ghrelin release from the isolated stomach by approximately approximately 30% vs. the control while lipids (10% intralipid) had no affect. Acetylcholine (1 microM) increased ghrelin release from the stomach by approximately 37% whereas insulin (10nM) decreased it by approximately 30% vs. the control. Interestingly, CCK (100 nM) potently increased ghrelin release by approximately 200% vs. the control. Therefore it appears that ghrelin secretion from the stomach is under direct influence of amino acids, neurotransmitter acetylcholine and hormones such as insulin and CCK.
Mechano-Transduction: From Molecules to Tissues

External forces play complex roles in cell organization, fate, and homeostasis. Changes in these forces, or how cells respond to them, can result in abnormal embryonic development and diseases in adults. How cells sense and respond to these mechanical stimuli requires an understanding of the biophysical principles that underlie changes in protein conformation and result in alterations in the organization and function of cells and tissues. Here, we discuss mechano-transduction as it applies to protein conformation, cellular organization, and multi-cell (tissue) function.