cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cloning, sequencing and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of a porcine cDNA for OCT2

Summary A full-length pig cDNA for the POU-domain protein OCT2 has been isolated and sequenced. The 478 amino acid-long reading frame in pig OCT2 is 97% identical to human OCTZA, indicating strong conservation of function for this immunoglobulin regulatory protein. To investigate the potential use of this cDNA for mapping and identifying linkage of OCT2 to economic traits, restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis was used to identify a TaqI polymorphism. A population of 60 unrelated animals, as well as multigenerational families, were typed for this RFLP and showed variability in several American and Chinese breeds. The Taq I polymorphism was also detected by a non-POU-domain OCT2 probe, demonstrating that this RFLP is located in the OCT2 gene. This result suggests that OCT2 is likely to be a single-copy gene in swine as seen in other mammals.
Controlling the Wettability and Adhesion of Nanostructured Poly-(p-xylylene) Films

The hydrophobic surface properties of structured poly-(p-xylylene) (PPX) films, as measured by water wettability, are studied as functions of surface chemistry, film composition, and surface roughness. We demonstrate the fabrication of very hydrophobic surfaces and control over adhesion properties via nanoscale modulation of roughness, changes in composition, and alteration of the surface chemistry of PPX films. The formation of superhydrophobic surfaces through the chemisorption of fluoroalkylsiloxane coatings to hydroxyl sites created on the nanostructured PPX surface is also illustrated. The ability to control both hydrophobicity and adhesion using nanostructured PPX films is a promising development because it may lead to a new generation of coatings with applicability ranging from self-cleaning surfaces to robotics.
Effect of budesonide on the methylation and mRNA expression of the insulin-like growth factor 2 and c-myc genes in mouse lung tumors.

The use of surrogate end-point biomarkers could help in the development of chemopreventive agents. To define potential surrogate end-point biomarkers, the ability of budesonide to decrease mRNA expression of the insulin-like growth factor-2 (Igf-II) and c-myc genes and to cause the remethylation of the genes was investigated in lung tumors. Lung tumors were induced in female strain A mice by administering i.p. 16 mg/kg vinyl carbamate for 2 consecutive wk or by a single dose of 100 mg/kg benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). Thirty-four weeks later, the mice given vinyl carbamate received budesonide (0.6 or 2.4 mg/kg diet) for 7 d and then were killed. Mice were killed 24 wk after administration of B[a]P. The mRNA expression of the Igf-II and c-myc genes was increased in lung tumors relative to normal lung tissue. Budesonide decreased mRNA expression of both genes in tumors. The methylation status of 27 CpG sites in the differentially methylated region 2 in the Igf-II gene was determined with the bisulfite-treated DNA-sequencing procedure. The numbers of methylated CpG sites were 17-21 in normal lung (70.4 +/- 2.6%); 0-2, and 1-2 in lung tumors induced by vinyl carbamate and B[a]P (4.9 +/- 1.2% and 4.6 +/- 1.2%, respectively); and 4-5 or 7-16 in tumors after treatment with 0.6 or 2.4 mg/kg budesonide (16.0 +/- 1.2% and 46.2 +/- 5.1%, respectively). Thus, lung tumors had strikingly less methylated CpG sites than normal lung tissue, while even limited treatment with budesonide resulted in remethylation of the CpG sites in tumors. With HpaII digestion followed by Southern blot analysis, the internal cytosine of CCGG sites in the c-myc gene was found to be methylated in normal lung tissue, whereas some of the sites were unmethylated in lung tumors. Treatment for 7 d with budesonide resulted in the remethylation of these sites. In conclusion, mouse lung tumors showed decreased methylation of the Igf-II and c-myc genes that was associated with increased expression of these genes. Budesonide treatment caused remethylation and decreased expression of both genes. The results support the possibility of using decreased mRNA expression and remethylation of the Igf-II and c-myc genes as biomarkers for the efficacy of budesonide.
Pressure dependence of the superconducting transition temperatures of PdH and PdD

Abstract The pressure dependence of the superconducting transition temperatures of PdH and PdD with transition temperatures in the range 2–7 K has been measured. d ln Tc/dPranges from −0.013 kbar−1 near 2 K to −0.008 kbar−1 near 7 K.
Histamine, free-histidine concentrations and histidine decarboxylase, histamine methyltransferase activities in developing rat tissues.

Abstract 1. 1. Fetal tissues and tissues from rats 1–35 days of age were analyzed for free-histidine, histamine and activities of HDC and HMT. 2. 2. Free-histidine concentrations increased in all tissues as a function of age. 3. 3. Histamine concentrations were high in total fetal tissue (tft), decreased in brain and in kidney between 1 day and 4 weeks of age, and was present in large concentrations in muscle at 7 days of age. 4. 4. In rat stomach, histamine concentration peaked at 21 days of age and remained constant thereafter. 5. 5. HDC activity was at its highest in tft but was not observed in any tissue after birth until 14 days of age; it then increased in all tissues examined. 6. 6. HMT activity was not detected in tft nor in muscle or stomach; in brain, constant HMT activity was observed from day 1 to day 35 of age. 7. 7. In kidney, no HMT activity was observed until 14 days of age; thereafter, activity rose 10-fold by 28 days of age.
A model of technology adoption and growth

We construct a model of economic growth in which firms adopt more advanced technologies. In order to advance its technology, a firm must make an investment. The size of this investment depends on the size of the technology adoption barriers in the firm's country Assuming a Markov chain for these barriers, we examine the amount of variation and persistence in the chain for which the model matches the observed output disparity across countries and the mobility of nations. Our calibration suggests a range for the size of these barriers of a factor five, and the presence of a barrier trap.
Linear interpolation problems for matrix classes and a transformational characterization of M-matrices

Abstract The linear interpolation problem (LIP) for a class of matrices C asks for which pairs of vectors x, y there exists a matrix A∈ C such that Ax=y . The LIP is solved for M-matrices, P-matrices, H-matrices, and H + -matrices. In addition, a transformational characterization is given for M-matrices that refines the known one for P-matrices. There is no such characterization for H- or H + -matrices.
Self-Generated Mnemonics for Number Recall in Young and Old Adults

Self-generated strategies for recall of number facts were examined in 164 adults who ranged in age from 20 to 86 years. Participants recalled a number list that included six 2-digit prices and six 4-digit phone numbers. Following recall, participants reported their encoding strategies. A larger percentage of the younger subjects (< 49 yr.) reported using a specific verbal mediator to facilitate encoding, and younger subjects recalled more 2-digit and 4-digit numbers. Across age groups, the self-reported use of encoding strategies facilitated recall.
Effect of Ethanol on Insulin‐Like Growth Factor‐II Release from Fetal Organs

This study examines the effect of ethanol (ETOH) exposure and nutrient restriction on the release of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II from 18- and 20-day explanted fetal organs. Fetuses were exposed to ETOH (E) in utero by feeding dams a 36% (calories derived from ETOH: 6.6% v/v) ETOH liquid diet. Control fetuses were offsprings of dams either pair-fed (P) a control liquid diet or ad libitum (A) fed a standard pelleted lab chow. Brain, heart, kidney, liver, lung, muscle, and placenta of fetuses from the same litter were pooled and explanted, and IGF-II concentration in explanted media was analyzed by radioimmunoassay. Maternal and fetal weights were determined during pregnancy and at sacrifice, respectively, to evaluate the influence of ETOH on growth. Both maternal and fetal weights were substantially reduced by ETOH on 18 and 20 days of gestation compared with both A and P controls. At 18 days of gestation, E fetuses (1.33 +/- 0.03 g) weighed less than either A (1.47 +/- 0.03 g) or P (1.54 +/- 0.04 g) fetuses. By 20 days, A mean fetal weight (4.19 +/- 0.23 g) was significantly greater than both P (3.74 +/- 0.06 g) and E (3.28 +/- 0.06 g) fetuses. IGF-II concentration in media from 18-day fetal explants was highest from E (brain, heart, liver, and placenta) and P tissues (kidney, lung, and muscle). IGF-II in media from A tissues (except placenta) was lower than both E and P levels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Cognitive therapy for test anxiety

A cognitive therapy was administered in a group format to test-anxious college students. Subjects were randomly assigned to groups meeting for eight weekly sessions, groups meeting for four weekly sessions, or a waiting list control group. The overall pattern of results suggested that the eight-session condition was superior to the four-session condition, which was superior to the control condition in reducing self-reported test anxiety. On the other hand, neither a task performance measure nor grade point average showed any effect of treatment.
Broadband low-profile antennas for wireless applications

Two novel broadband low-profile antennas are developed for the mobile terminals of wireless applications. The first one is a quasiplanar antenna which has a height of 0.06λ0, where λ0 is the free-space wavelength at the centre frequency. The second one is a planar antenna which has a height of 0.056λ0. It is demonstrated that the quasiplanar antenna can achieve a bandwidth for VSWR<2 of more than 45%, while the planar antenna realises a bandwidth of more than 40%. More importantly, over these bandwidths the broadband low-profile antennas have a quite constant omnidirectional radiation pattern with a peak gain of around 1 dBi. The antennas are designed on a commonly used RT/Duroid substrate; hence it is easy to integrate with RF front-end circuits. The antenna structures are described and the simulation and experimental results are presented.
Geometrically nonlinear formulation of a 48 D.O.F. quadrilateral shell element with rational B-spline geometry

A geometrically nonlinear formulation for a 48 degrees-of-freedom (d.o.f.) quadrilateral shell element is presented. Each of the three displacement functions of u, v and w is based on the bicubic Hermitian polynomial. The surface of the element is modelled using linearized ratronal B-spline functions which may be linked to the geometric data bases generated by the computer-aided design system. The displacement functions and the 48 d.o.f. are expressed in both curvilinear and Cartesian forms, whereas the strain-displacement equations are expressed in curvilinear co-ordinates. The use of Cartesian displacement functions and degrees-of-freedom allow for the proper representation of the six rigid body motions even for the element with nonzero Gaussian curvature, such as a bellows. Two examples are demonstrated: snap-through buckling of a spherical cap and large deflection of a semi-toroidal bellows shell. Results compare well with alternative solutions.
Performance Evaluation of Step Stare Sensor for Space-Based Air Vehicle Detection

To achieve sufficient sensitivity, background noise suppression is required because of the relatively weak target signal. Background noise suppression techniques, first order, second order temporal differencing, spatial and temporal differencing, are analyzed and compared. Background noise due to both background drift and system jitter effects are calculated. Pixel-to-pixel offset-induced boresight errors is also evaluated.© (1978) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Psychopathology subtypes and symptom correlates among former prisoners of war

Psychopathology and symptom patterns were studied in 60 former prisoners-of-war (POWs) by administering standardized tests including the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), an adjustment problem checklist, and a structured clinical interview. Most POWs showed marked psychological impairment, but modal profile analysis identified two prototypic MMPI patterns, which differed in pervasiveness and type of psychopathology. Profile subtypes were defined by unique clusters of clinical symptoms and differed in confinement stress severity. The typology of symptoms argues against a homogeneous conceptualization of stress-induced disorders and suggests the need for definition of the severity and subtype of stress phenomena and individual difference factors in responding to trauma.
Mapping detention basins and deriving their spatial attributes from airborne LiDAR data for hydrological applications

This paper presents a new technique for mapping detention basins and measuring their spatial attributes using high-resolution airborne LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data. An efficient least-cost search algorithm is employed to identify surface depressions from a bare-earth LiDAR digital elevation model (DEM). Surface depressions are automatically delineated into hydrological objects using the connected component identification and indexing algorithm. Various spatial attributes are derived for these hydrologic objects, including location, perimeter, surface area, depth, storage volume and shape properties. Based on spatial attributes, a rule-based classifier is established to separate detention basins from other types of surface depressions. We have successfully applied our technique to an urban watershed in the Houston Metropolitan area, Texas. Detention basins at regional and residential subdivision levels are mapped out for the watershed, and measurements on the spatial attributes are derived for each detention basin. The quantitative information derived from LiDAR data provides a scientific basis for formulating an appropriate management plan for detention basins and for assessing their effects on flood control and storm water quality treatment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cauchy's dispersion equation reconsidered: Dispersion in silicate glasses

We formulate a novel method of characterizing optically transparent substances using dispersion theory. The refractive index is given by a generalized Cauchy dispersion equation with coefficients that are moments of the uv and ir absorptions. Mean dispersion, Abbe number, and partial dispersion are combinations of these moments. The empirical relation between index and dispersion for families of glasses appears as a consequence of Beer's law applied to the uv spectra.
Accelerated clinical disease and pathology in mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB and GalNAc transferase double knockout mice.

Abstract Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB (MPS IIIB) is a neuropathic lysosomal storage disorder (LSD) resulting from an inherited deficiency of N -acetyl-α-d-glucosaminidase (Naglu) activity, an enzyme required to degrade the glycosaminoglycan heparan sulfate (HS). A deficiency in Naglu activity leads to lysosomal accumulation of HS as a primary storage substrate, and the gangliosides GM2 and GM3 as secondary accumulation products. To test the effect on neuropathogenesis of ganglioside accumulation, we bred mice deficient in both Naglu and GalNaAcT activities. The latter is the enzyme required for synthesis of GM2 and other complex gangliosides. Contrary to our expectation and to double knockout (DKO) studies where GalNAcT was knocked out in combination with other LSDs, our DKO mice showed a drastically shortened lifespan (24.5±1.4weeks, versus 50.5±0.9weeks (MPS IIIB), and 38.6±1.2weeks (GalNAcT)). To confirm that HS storage was the primary element resulting in the accelerated disease in our DKO mice, and not a locus tightly linked to the Naglu gene, we replicated our study with MPS IIIA mice, and found a virtually identical result (27.5±1.8weeks, versus 53.8±1.6weeks). All DKO mice showed motor signs of hind limb ataxia and hyper-extension, which were not seen in single KO or normal mice. At approximately 5months of age, the MPS IIIB–DKO showed a unique pattern of vacuolization and nerve fiber degeneration in the corpus callosum, seen only in the DKO mice, as well as the relatively early intracytoplasmic vacuolation of many neurons and glia characteristic of the MPS IIIB mice. We analyzed motor performance on a rocking Rota-Rod beginning at 3months of age. The MPS IIIA–DKO and MPS IIIB–DKO mice showed impaired performance and were statistically different from all parental lines. In particular, the MPS IIIB–DKO mice were significantly different from the parent MPS IIIB strains at 3, 5, and 6months (p≤0.0245). In conclusion we identified an accelerated phenotype associated with MPS IIIB within a DKO model system which showed white matter changes, with attendant performance deficits and a drastically shortened lifespan. This was in stark contrast to our expectations of a salutary response to the elimination of GM2. Despite this, the accelerated pathology and clinical signs represent a potentially improved system to study MPS IIIB neuropathogenesis as well as the role of complex gangliosides in normal CNS function.
Computing a closest bifurcation instability in multidimensional parameter space

Engineering and physical systems are often modeled as nonlinear differential equations with a vector λ of parameters and operated at a stable equilibrium. However, as the parameters λ vary from some nominal value λ0, the stability of the equilibrium can be lost in a saddle-node or Hopf bifurcation. The spatial relation in parameter space of λ0 to the critical set of parameters at which the stable equilibrium bifurcates determines the robustness of the system stability to parameter variations and is important in applications. We propose computing a parameter vector λ* at which the stable equilibrium bifurcates which is locally closest in parameter space to the nominal parameters λ0. Iterative and direct methods for computing these locally closest bifurcations are described. The methods are extensions of standard, one-parameter methods of computing bifurcations and are based on formulas for the normal vector to hypersurfaces of the bifurcation set. Conditions on the hypersurface curvature are given to ensure the local convergence of the iterative method and the regularity of solutions of the direct method. Formulas are derived for the curvature of the saddle node bifurcation set. The methods are extended to transcritical and pitchfork bifurcations and parametrized maps, and the sensitivity to λ0 of the distance to a closest bifurcation is derived. The application of the methods is illustrated by computing the proximity to the closest voltage collapse instability of a simple electric power system.
STIMULUS PROPERTIES OF THE RORSCHACH TO A SAMPLE OF PEDOPHILES.

Summary A group of 61 male pedophiles rated the Rorschach inkblots on 21 scales of the semantic differential. The direction of their responses was essentially similar to previous groups performing the same task. However, their response tendency was decidedly different, showing an overuse of the neutral category. This was interpreted as indicating an extreme guardedness of approach, and the implication of this approach for the clinical situation was discussed.
Lysophospholipid-mediated alterations in the calcium transport systems of skeletal and cardiac muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum.

The effects of various lysophospholipids on the calcium transport activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) from rabbit skeletal and canine cardiac muscles were examined. The lipids decreased calcium transport activity in both membrane types; the effectiveness being in the order lysoPC > lsyoPS, lysoPG > lysoPE. The maximum inhibition induced by lysoPC, lysoPG and lysoPS was greater than 85% of the normal Ca2+-transport rate. In cardiac SR lysoPE had a maximal inhibition of about 50%. Half maximal inhibition of calcium transport by lysoPC was achieved at 110 nmoles lysoPC/mg SR. At this concentration of lysoPC, the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase and Ca2+-uptake activities were inhibited to the same extent (about 60%) in skeletal sarcoplasmic reticulum, while in cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum, there was less than 20% inhibition of the Ca2+ + Mg2+-ATPase activity. Studies with EGTA-induced passive calcium efflux showed that up to 200 nmoles lysoPC/mg SR did not alter calcium permeability significantly in cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum. In skeletal muscle membranes the lysophospholipid mediated decrease in calcium uptake correlated well with the increase in passive calcium efflux due to lysophosphatidylcholine. The difference in the lysophospholipid-induced effects on the sarcoplasmic reticulum from the two muscle types probably reflects variations in protein and other membrane components related to the respective calcium transport systems.
Familiarity vs novelty in desire to own long-play recordings

Ratings of and paired comparisons among long-play recordings (LPs) showed a very slight tendency (statistically significant for a few Ss on a few measures) to prefer LPs judged only a few times to those LPs which were seen on each replication of the experiment.
A Validation Test of a Field-Based Phosphate Analysis Technique

Abstract In this report, we evaluate a modified version of Eidt ’s (1973) field-based phosphate analysis technique to explore its validity. Soil samples were collected and analysed from an archaeological site in the Sunol Valley, Alameda County, California. Four characteristics were recorded for all soil samples. To evaluate the technique statistically, a ranking method was developed for each character and phosphate values were calculated. Based on site boundaries established by other archaeological techniques, including survey and mechanical subsurface testing, these phosphate values were designated as either “on-site ” or “off-site ”. Discriminant function analysis was then used to determine whether the phosphate values could be used reliably to classify sample locations. A valid threshold phosphate value, which we believe is predictive for other archaeological sites in the immediate geologic region, was developed for the Sunol Valley site. We suggest that once a minimum “site ” value for phosphate is established in a region, Eidt ’s modified technique can be used to identify areas of prior human occupation. In field situations where vegetation is dense and surface visibility is poor, this technique can offer a quick and inexpensive assessment of soil and site presence when other investigative approaches are not feasible.
Stalinism in post‐communist perspective: New evidence on killings, forced labour and economic growth in the 1930s

(1996). Stalinism in post‐communist perspective: New evidence on killings, forced labour and economic growth in the 1930s. Europe-Asia Studies: Vol. 48, No. 6, pp. 959-987.
Asymmetric Edema of the Upper Lung Due to Mitral Valvular Dysfunction

This 80-year-old woman with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and mitral-valve prolapse presented with dyspnea, orthopnea, and dry cough. A chest radiograph showed mild cardiomegaly and air-space disease in the upper lobes, more on the right than on the left.
The improved synthesis and crystal structure of 20-thiocrown-4

An improved synthesis of 20-thiocrown-4 is reported, which exploits the Kellogg method of cesium carbonate in DMF mediated macrocyclization of precondensed synthones which converge at the cycloicosane structure. The crystal structure of 20-thiocrown-4 reveals a rectangular conformation for the free ligand. Each sulfur is in onegauche and oneanti torsion angle. Four carbon positions make up the corners. There are two short sides comprised of −C−C− torsion angle sequencesg −ag− and two long sides (aaa, g −ag+). The S−C and C−C bond distances average 1.816(2) A and 1.523(3) A, respectively.
Collisionful keyed hash functions with selectable collisions

Abstract One-way hash functions (keyed and unkeyed) are often required to be also collision-resistant — that is, finding two inputs that map to the same output is computationally hard. Recently, applications using user-chosen passwords suggest that keyed one-way hash functions be collisionful instead of collision-resistant on the key component in order to protect the passwords from guessing attacks. We give a new construction of collisionful keyed one-way hash function where one can select and reuse some of the collisions to better confuse a guessing attack.
Guidelines for consideration for surgical repair of vesicoureteral reflux.

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a risk factor for acute pyelonephritis, which can result in renal scarring (reflux nephropathy), hypertension, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and complications during pregnancy, In deciding whether to recommend surgical correction of VUR, factors that should be conside
A microwave kinetic inductance camera for sub/millimeter astrophysics

The MKID Camera is a millimeter/submillimeter instrument being built for astronomical observations from the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory. It utilizes microwave kinetic inductance detectors, which are rapidly achieving near-BLIP sensitivity for ground-based observations, and a software-defined radio readout technique for elegant multiplexing of a large number of detectors. The Camera will have 592 pixels distributed over 16 tiles in the focal plane, with four colors per pixel matched to the 750 μm, 850 μm, and 1.0 - 1.5 mm (split in two) atmospheric transmission windows. As a precursor to building the full-up camera and to enable ongoing detector testing, we have built a DemoCam comprised of a 16-pixel MKID array with which we have made preliminary astronomical observations. These observations demonstrate the viability of MKIDs for submillimeter astronomy, provide insight into systematic design issues that must be considered for MKID-based instruments, and they are the first astronomical observations with antenna-coupled superconducting detectors. In this paper, we describe the basic systems and specifications of the MKID Camera, we describe our DemoCam observations, and we comment on the status of submillimeter MKID sensitivities.
Results and current status of the water cherenkov detector development for the auger surface array

The Auger Observatory is a hybrid detector in which 3000 water Cherenkov detectors (WCD) operate in coincidence with atmospheric fluorescence detectors. Due to the limited duty cycle of the later the bulk of the data is provided by the surface detector array. Hence, the capacity of WCDs to discriminate the muonic from the electromagnetic component within air showers, and thereby provide a measure of the composition, is of great interest. This work describes performance studies of the capacity of WCDs to separate the muonic from the electromagnetic component of simulated air shower signals as they will be recorded in the Auger detectors. In addition recent results from the water Cherenkov prototype detectors triggered by the Akeno Giant Air Shower Array (AGASA) upon detection of extended air showers with energies above 10 18 eV will be presented.
A proposed mechanism for autism: an aberrant neuroimmune response manifested as a psychiatric disorder

Abstract Autism, an incurable neurodevelopmental brain disorder, is a complex psychopathology in which the affected individual cannot effectively self-regulate their sensory inputs toward coherent and focused motor outputs. There have been many hypotheses as to the etiology of autism – genetics, neurotransmitter imbalances, early childhood immunizations, xenobiotic and teratogenic agents, and maternal infection; the disorder can perhaps be studied best under the field of “Psychoneuroimmunology”, which analyzes systemic and psychopathologies from an integrated approach through the combined effects of the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. Using principles of psychoneuroimmunology along with previously established but yet un-linked scientific principles and observations, this paper proposes a neuroimmune-based mechanistic hypothesis for the etiology of autism that connects elevated levels of maternal pro-inflammatory cytokines to autistic symptoms in her offspring through a logical sequence of events. While both researchers and clinicians often note correlations between pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and autistic symptoms in affected individuals, no specific mechanism has been documented that logically and directly connects the two. I propose that pro-inflammatory cytokines arising from maternal inflammation, infection, and, possibly, autoimmunity, pass through the placenta; enter the fetal circulation; cross the fetal blood–brain barrier (BBB); and cause aberrant neuronal growth and plasticity within the fetal brain via a “cytokine-storm”. Microglia and astrocyte stimulation lead to a positive-feedback loop that also facilitates the development of a chronic inflammatory environment within the fetus, pre-disposing it to lifelong comorbid psychiatric and systemic pathologies. Such a mechanism could account for many of the observed symptoms and behaviors of autistic individuals such as hyper-sensitivity to environmental stimuli, object fixation, echolalia, repetitive physical behaviors, chronic enterocolitis, autoimmune disease, and, at the extreme, savantism. The thiazolidinedione pioglitazone (and possibly rosiglitazone), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which is commonly used to lower blood glucose levels and associated inflammatory markers in patients with diabetes, and histamine receptor blockers, as well as monitoring and limiting sucrose-containing foods, might prove to be effective preventative therapies for the development of autism in the fetus for pregnant women displaying either a cytokine-induced depression or other elevated systemic inflammatory state conditions.
ASSOCIATION OF ECG R WAVE TO RADIAL PULSE DELAY WITH SUBCLINICAL CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE AND RISK FACTORS: THE MULTI-ETHNIC STUDY OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS (MESA)

ECG R-wave to Radial Artery Pulse Delay (RRD) is a novel hemodynamic index obtainable from a single tonometric measurement with simultaneous ECG to assess the timing of an electrical marker (ECG R-wave peak) until a corresponding mechanical feature (end diastole at the radial pulse). We studied the
Deprivation and the emergence of neo-Pentecostalism in American Christianity

Abstract The purpose of this article is to present a summary of an examination of neo-Pentecostalism. The emergence of Pentecostal, sectarian practices among middle class Americans has called into question prior sociological explanations for sectarian behavior. Previous explanations were based on sect-church theory which is allied with the theory that sectarian behavior is based on socio-economic deprivation. However, neo-Pentecostals do not fit the pattern of sect-church development and neo-Pentecostals are not deprived economically or socially in the conventional sociological sense. These facts reveal the need for new or modified approaches to neo-Pentecostalism. This study tested the usefulness of such an approach by applying Glock's theoretical framework on deprivation to neo-Pentecostalism. Glock's theory retains the concept of socio-economic deprivation as important for understanding the emergence of sectarian groups, but extends sect-church theory to include other types of non-objective deprivation...
The Influences of Phenytoin on the Fundamental Electrical Properties of Simple Neural Systems

SUMMARY The effects of phenytoin on some neurophysiological properties of simple neuronal systems are reviewed. From all the available data phenytoin decreases or has no effect on post- tetanic hyperpolarization, which is interpreted as an expression of the electrogenic pump. Al- though in some neurons the membrane conduc- tance is increased, the resting membrane poten- tial is minimally affected. The effect on the action potential varies with different preparations and with different neurons of the same ganglion. If an effect is present, the overshoot is decreased or the falling phase is prolonged, or both. Post- synaptic potentials are also affected by pheny- toin. EPSPs are decreased in size, while the chloride-dependent, GABA-mediated IPSPs of the crayfish stretch receptor are prolonged. No effect was seen on chloride-dependent, ACh- mediated IPSPs in the abdominal ganglion of the Aplysia. Finally, phenytoin arrests endogenous or pharmacologically induced bursting. Most of the described effects are consistent with the an- tiarrhythmic and antiepileptic properties of the drug.
Radiative proton capture to the ground state and first three excited states of 12C

Abstract We have studied the 11 B(p, γ) 12 C reaction populating the 0 1 + ,2 + ,0 2 + , and 3 − states of 12 C at 0.0, 4.44, 7.66 and 9.64 MeV. The 90° cross sections ware mesasured from E p = 6 to 23 MeV ( E z = 21.5 to 37 MeV) with angular distributions at E p = 12.4 and 14.4 MeV.
An Examination of the Relative Impact of Normative Information and Self‐Efficacy on Personal Goals and Performance Over Time1

A model of goal-setting processes was developed that depicted the influence of previous performance, normative information, and self-efficacy on personal goals and performance. Three levels of normative information were manipulated in a counter-balanced fashion across two trials. Norms were hypothesized to have a greater influence than self-efficacy on personal goals for the first trial, whereas efficacy was hypothesized to have a stronger influence than norms on Trial 2 goals. A sample of 135 undergraduates completed a practice and two performance trials of a word game, and the results were analyzed using LISREL structural modeling techniques. Although the general hypothesized model fit fairly well, the specific results concerning the relative impact of norms and self-efficacy were opposite of the expected direction. Potential explanations for these results, and recommendations for future research are offered.
Establishing a Tinnitus Clinic in Your Practice

Purpose While tinnitus is very common among the hearing impaired population, specific treatment for tinnitus is not provided in most clinics. This article provides a plan for establishing a tinnitus treatment program that can be implemented in stages at most audiology clinics. Method Preparation for establishing a tinnitus clinic includes having an overall plan regarding the type and degree of tinnitus management. Assessment involves a measurement of tinnitus and of the reaction a patient has to the tinnitus, including the use of handicap questionnaires. Management typically involves some form of counseling and sound therapy. Four problematic areas in tinnitus management are thoughts and emotions, hearing and communication, sleep, and concentration. Conclusions Licensed audiologists generally have the essential training necessary to provide counseling and sound therapy to treat tinnitus patients. We introduce 3 levels of treatment implementation, depending on whether the patient is curious, concerned, or ...
Effects of particulate radiation on premixed gas flames

Observations of the effect of the addition of fine solid particles to weakly combustible methane-air mixtures are reported. Burning rates, pressure rise, and thermal characteristics are found to exhibit nonmonotonic trends with increasing particle loading. These results are interpreted in terms of the effects of augmentation of radiant loss at small particle loadings and re-absorption of emitted radiation at larger loadings. It is suggested that in sufficiently large systems, flammability limits might not exist because of this reabsorption effect.
Incorporation of 1,2-14C-ethanolamine into subfractions of rat liver phosphatidylethanolamines and phosphatidylcholines

The incorporation of 1,2-14C-ethanolamine into the liver phosphatidylethanolamines (PE) and phosphatidylcholines (PC) in female rats was studied. These phosphatides were fractionated according to their degrees of unsaturation and the specific activities of monoenoic, dienoic, tetraenoic and hexaenoic fractions were measured at intervals of 1, 20, 60 and 300 min after injection of the labeled precursor. Hexaenoic and dienoic PE incorporated and lost the label rapidly. Although the labeled precursor was incorporated into tetraene PE at a similar rate, this fraction attained a relatively low specific activity that remained essentially constant between 10 and 300 min after injection of the label. Hexaenoic PC had the highest specific activity among the PC fractions at all time periods. Estimations of the rate of loss of radioactivity in the hexaenoic PE fraction and its appearance in hexaenoic PC indicate that the docosahexaenoic acid is conserved, possibly by being reincorporated into PE after becoming a part of the hexaenoic PC species. The high rate of turnover of the hexaenoic PE also suggests that this fraction might have some special role in endogenous choline synthesis.
On Gabor’s Expansion Theorem*

As a generalization for optics of the well-known sampling theorem of information theory, D. Gabor proposed an expansion theorem. It relates to the number of independent solutions of the wave equation in a region defined by the object and by the aperture of an optical system.A proof of this theorem presents formidable difficulties. In this paper, a proof relating to important cases is established, and a more accurate estimate for the number of the independent solutions in the general case is given.
Angiotensin II generation by mast cell α- and β-chymases

Mast cells secrete α- and β-chymases. Primate α-chymases generate angiotensin (AT) II by selectively hydrolyzing AT I’s Phe8–His9 bond. This is distinct from the AT converting enzyme (ACE) pathway. In humans, α-chymase is the major non-ACE AT II-generator. In rats, β-chymases destroy AT II by cleaving at Tyr4–Ile5. Past studies predicted that AT II production versus destruction discriminates α- from β-chymases and that Lys40 in the substrate-binding pocket determines α-chymase Phe8 specificity. This study examines these hypotheses by comparing AT II generation by human α-chymase (containing Lys40), dog α-chymase (lacking Lys40), and mouse mMCP-4 (a β-chymase lacking Lys40; orthologous to AT II-destroying rat chymase rMCP-1). The results suggest that human and dog α-chymase generate AT II exclusively and with comparable efficiency, although dog chymase contains Ala40 rather than Lys40. Furthermore, AT II is the major product generated by degranulation supernatants from cultured dog mast cells, which release tryptases and dipeptidylpeptidase as well as α-chymase. In contrast to rMCP-1, mMCP-4 β-chymase readily generates AT II. Although there is competing AT I hydrolysis at Tyr4, mMCP-4 does not destroy AT II quickly once it is formed. We conclude (1) that chymases are the dominant AT I-hydrolyzing mast cell peptidases, (2) that residues other than Lys40 are key determinants of α-chymase AT I Phe8 specificity, (3) that β-chymases can generate AT II, and (4) that α- and β-chymases are not strictly dichotomous regarding AT I cleavage specificity.
Property and markets in Elmer Kelton novels

Literature is not for clear answers. Literature is for complicated questions. There is vital empirical data in literary texts—not data about economic fact, though there is some of that as well, but data about how people felt and thought and wrote about economic and market issues. If we care about that, if that is as important as Deirdre McCloskey has argued, we have a responsibility to find that data, to write about it, to share it, and to teach it (Skwire in Cato Unbound, 2012. http://www.cato-unbound.org/2012/07/02/sarah-skwire/bonfire-cliches).
Statistical approaches to “alpine” glacier response

Abstract Cross-correlation and canonical correlation techniques are applied to investigate the nature of immediate and lagged terminal responses of a retreating glacier (the Nisqually Glacier) to local climatic anomalies. Both types of response are evident in the resulting analysis. It is concluded that dynamic continuity is evidently present in the retreating glacier.
High-precision metrology on the ultra-lightweight UV 51-cm f/1.25 parabolic SHARPI primary mirror using a CGH null lens

For potential use on the SHARPI mission, Eastman Kodak has delivered a 50.8cm CA f/1.25 ultra-lightweight UV parabolic mirror with a surface figure error requirement of 6nm RMS. We address the challenges involved in verifying and mapping the surface error of this large lightweight mirror to 3nm RMS using a diffractive CGH null lens. Of main concern is removal of large systematic errors resulting from surface deflections of the mirror due to gravity as well as smaller contributions from system misalignment and reference optic errors. We present our efforts to characterize these errors and remove their wavefront error contribution in post-processing as well as minimizing the uncertainty these calculations introduce. Data from Kodak and preliminary measurements from NASA Goddard will be included.
Highly resolved, monochromatic, x‐ray images of laser‐produced plasmas through the single‐crystal double‐reflection spectrometer

The double‐reflection method is used to produce highly collimated x‐ray spectra, down to less than 0.1 mrad, from laser‐produced plasmas. Thus images of the plasmas are obtained for each wavelength. He‐like and Li‐like transitions from sulfur and titanium are shown. The first results give the different sizes of the volumes in the plasmas emitting the various species of ions.
Welcome to Fibers—A New Open Access Journal for Fibrous Material Science

Fibers are materials in the form of elongated threads. They can possess elastic features that are relevant to the integrity and bonding of cells. These features also give man-made fibers a wide range of applications. The large ratio of length to width (aspect ratio), which defines fibers, strongly influences their physical and chemical properties. This quality gives them a relatively large surface area, which can lead to powerful tensile and absorptive characteristics, which are remarkably different from, and cannot be predicted by study of the non-fibrous parent materials. An example of this is asbestos, where the toxicity of the material is heavily influenced by its structural anatomy. Distinctive chemical processes can take place on fibrous surfaces that may themselves seem to be chemically inert. Certain commonalities result from the distinctive geometry of fibers, and lie behind the apparently great diversity of fiber types and materials. [...]
Ga-rich Ga(x)In(1-x)P solar cells on Si with 1.95 eV bandgap for ideal III-V/Si photovoltaics

Theoretical models for III-V compound multijunction solar cells show that solar cells with bandgaps of 1.95-2.3 eV are needed to create ideal optical partitioning of the solar spectrum for device architectures containing three, four and more junctions. For III-V solar cells integrated with an active Si sub-cell, GaInP alloys in the Ga-rich regime are ideal since direct bandgaps of up to ~ 2.25 eV are achieved at lattice constants that can be integrated with appropriate GaAsP, SiGe and Si materials, with efficiencies of almost 50% being predicted using practical solar cell models under concentrated sunlight. Here we report on Ga-rich, lattice-mismatched Ga 0.57 In 0.43 P sub-cell prototypes with a bandgap of 1.95 eV grown on tensile step-graded metamorphic GaAs y P 1-y buffers on GaAs substrates. The goal is to create a high bandgap top cell for integration with Si-based III-V/Si triple-junction devices. Excellent carrier collection efficiency was measured via internal quantum efficiency measurements and with their design being targeted for multijunction implementation (i.e. they are too thin for single junction cells), initial cell results are encouraging. The first generation of identical 1.95 eV cells on Si were fabricated as well, with efficiencies for these large bandgap, thin single junction cells ranging from 7% on Si to 11% on GaAs without antireflection coatings, systematically tracking the change in defect density as a function of growth substrate.
Restraint of the Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells by a Nonfouling Zwitterionic Hydrogel

The success of human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) therapies is largely dependent on the ability to maintain the multipotency of cells and control their differentiation. External biochemical and biophysical cues can readily trigger hMSCs to spontaneously differentiate, thus resulting in a rapid decrease in the multipotent cell population and compromising their regenerative capacity. Herein, we demonstrate that nonfouling hydrogels composed of pure poly(carboxybetaine) (PCB) enable hMSCs to retain their stem-cell phenotype and multipotency, independent of differentiation-promoting media, cytoskeletal-manipulation agents, and the stiffness of the hydrogel matrix. Moreover, encapsulated hMSCs can be specifically induced to differentiate down osteogenic or adipogenic pathways by controlling the content of fouling moieties in the PCB hydrogel. This study examines the critical role of nonspecific interactions in stem-cell differentiation and highlights the importance of materials chemistry in maintaining stem-cell multipotency and controlling differentiation.
Search for a Naturally Occurring Amylase Inhibitor in Human Serum

IT has been postulated that an amylase inhibitor exists in normal human serum, but not in the serum of patients with acute pancreatitis1. The principal evidence for the presence of this inhibitor was based on observations that the average amylase activity of a group of sera was nearly tripled after subjecting the specimens to filter paper electrophoresis. It was found that when eighteen normal sera having a mean amylase value of 106 Somogyi units were separated electrophoretically, the total amylase recovered by extracting the various protein fractions with saline averaged 311 Somogyi units1. However, a similar electrophoretically-induced enhancement in amylase activity could not be demonstrated in sera from patients with acute pancreatitis. Dreiling et al.2 substantiated these observations and suggested that although increased quantities of pancreatic amylase enter the blood in acute pancreatitis, the circulating level of the amylase inhibitor is decreased in this disorder. These workers further concluded that, in cases of pancreatic cancer, hyperamylasaemia was not accompanied by any diminution in the enzyme inhibitor.
Oxyethylene copolymers with chloromethyl and (alkylthio)methyl or (alkylsulfonyl)methyl side groups: Syntheses andTg/composition relationships

New classes of copolymers, poly[oxy(chloromethyl)ethylene]/poly[oxy-((alkylthio)methyl)ethylene] copolymers (CE-ATEs), poly[oxy((alkylthio)methyl)-ethylene]s (ATEs), poly[oxy(chloromethyl)ethylene]/poly[oxy((alkylsulfonyl)meth-yl)ethylene] copolymers (CE-ASEs), and poly[oxy((alkylsulfonyl)methyl)ethylene]s (ASEs) have been made for the first time. The thioether-containing polymers (CE-ATEs and ATEs) were synthesized by reacting poly[oxy(chloromethyl)ethylene] (CE, poly(epichlorohydrin)) with different amounts of sodium alkanethiolates. The sulfone-containing polymers (CE-ASEs and ASEs) were synthesized by oxidizing the CE-ATEs and ATEs using m-chloroperoxybenzoic acid. The Fox equation, a linear relationship, fit the Tg/composition data for most CE-ATEs. The Tg's of the CE-ASEs showed positive deviations from those calculated using the Fox equation. The Johnston equation, in which steric and/or polar interactions between dissimilar monomeric units are considered by using TgAB (the Tg of the AB or BA dyad), fit the Tg/composition data for all copolymers in this study. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci A: Polym Chem 36: 495–504, 1998
Seasonal mapping of NICU temperature.

Purpose To create a thermal map of ambient air, radiant, and evaporative temperatures and humidity throughout the NICU nursery by season across a calendar year.