cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Topical Neck Cooling Prolongs Survival of Rats with Intra-Abdominal Feculent Sepsis by Activation of the Vagus Nerve.

Global hypothermia prolongs survival in rats with intraabdominal feculent sepsis by inhibiting inflammatory responses. We hypothesized that topical neck cooling (TNC) has similar benefits. Septic shock was induced by cecal ligation and incision (CLI) in Sprague Dawley rats. Rats were randomized to sham laparotomy, control with CLI, CLI with TNC, or vagotomy at the gastroesophageal junction before CLI and TNC. Two more groups underwent peritoneal washout with and without TNC two hours after CLI. TNC significantly lowered neck skin temperature (16.7 ± 1.4 vs. 30.5 ± 0.6 °C, p 10 days). TNC significantly prolonged the survival of rats with severe intraabdominal sepsis by inhibiting systemic proinflammatory responses by activating vagal anti-inflammatory pathways.
What's in a Disorder: A Cultural Analysis of Medical and Pharmaceutical Constructions of Male and Female Sexual Dysfunction

SUMMARY. This paper analyzes the emergence of two FDA-approved products to treat “sexual disorders”: Viagra, a drug prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, and the Eros, a device prescribed for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction. Through an analysis of advertising and promotional materials for Viagra and the Eros, we argue that these pharmaceutical devices and the discourses they circulate reinforce normative gender ideals by enacting dominant cultural narratives of masculinity, femininity, and male and female sexuality. These cultural narratives of normative gender structure sexuality in such a way that reinforces certain kinds of masculinity, femininity, and (hetero)sexuality, thereby rendering “atypical” gender and sexual expressions, desires, and appearances invisible and marginal. We argue that these constructions reify cultural ideologies about “what counts” as legitimate and appropriate sexuality and that these con
Nanotechnology in India: Inferring Links Between Emerging Technologies and Development

Nanotechnology is an emerging technology that has received much global interest, and many national governments are making substantial investments in nanotechnology research and development (R&D) activities. Developing countries, for whom the opportunity cost of research is high, are beginning to show interest in nanotechnology for two reasons. First, many developing countries are making the link between innovation and economic development, and view emerging technologies as an opportunity to “leapfrog” into frontier research areas. As a result, they are increasing their science and technology (S&T) expenditure in these technologies. Second, emerging technologies present innovation opportunities related to their development goals such as environment, health, and energy.
Adaptive deployment of model reductions for tau-leaping simulation

Multiple time scales in cellular chemical reaction systems often render the tau-leaping algorithm inefficient. Various model reductions have been proposed to accelerate tau-leaping simulations. However, these are often identified and deployed manually, requiring expert knowledge. This is time-consuming and prone to error. In previous work, we proposed a methodology for automatic identification and validation of model reduction opportunities for tau-leaping simulation. Here, we show how the model reductions can be automatically and adaptively deployed during the time course of a simulation. For multiscale systems, this can result in substantial speedups.
Gastric motility is stimulated but overall blood flow is unaffected during cold restraint in the rat

The relationship between cold restraint-induced lesion formation, gastric motility, and gastric mucosal blood flow was studied in rats. Both anesthetized and unanesthetized animals placed in cold restraint developed gastric mucosal lesions. Gastric (corpus) motility was measured using extraluminal force transducers. Animals placed in cold restraint developed persistent, high amplitude, prolonged duration contractions. Those rats in which such contractions lasted greater than 1 h developed gastric mucosal lesions, whereas those animals in which such contractions lasted less than or equal to 1 h had no lesions. Overall gastric mucosal blood flow was measured using the hydrogen gas clearance technique. There was no significant change in overall gastric mucosal blood flow measured after 1, 2, and 3 h of cold restraint. We conclude that (a) the physical effect of cold water immersion is by itself sufficient to cause cold "restraint" lesions and (b) such lesions are associated with high amplitude, prolonged duration contractions lasting greater than 1 h.
Research with the mentally retarded and mentally ill: rights and duties versus compelling state interest

This paper examines the assumptions underlying the ethical reasoning involved when the natural right to informed consent has been violated. Ramifications of the compelling need of the state to protect society by overriding the rights of individual freedom receive special attention. Specifically these issues are addressed: natural rights versus state‘s rights to preserve rights, state's rights versus parental autonomy, rights and duties versus paternalism, self interest and self survival versus the common good, coercion versus progress in research, and benefit versus cost. Building on these ethical considerations, the authors present a theoretical framework for ethical decision making with research involving the mentally retarded and the mentally ill.
Development of a Process to Measure Ozone Concentration in Processing Water at the Point of Product Application

Ozone is an effective sanitizing agent against a broad spectrum of pathogenic and spoilage organisms. Optimization of treatment applications of ozonated water is needed for increased use in the food industry. An experimental apparatus and process has been developed to digitally measure ozone concentrations in processing water at the point of product application. Two application methods were evaluated. Effects of locally available water quality and water temperature on the ozone concentrations produced were determined. Rapid measurement of ozone concentration at the product application will facilitate the investigation of improved product quality in shrimp.
Departure from Network Equilibrium (DNE): an efficient and scalable measure of instantaneous network dynamics, with an application to magnetoencephalography

The assessment of the dynamic status of a network is currently unavailable. It is important to know how far a network is away from its equilibrium (as an indicator of instability) at a moment, and over periods of time. Here, we introduce the Departure from Network Equilibrium (DNE), a new measure of instantaneous network dynamics. DNE is simple, fast to compute, and scalable with network size. We present the results of its application on white noise networks (as a basis) and on networks derived from magnetoencephalographic recordings from the human brain.
A real-time bit-serial rank filter implementation using Xilinx FPGA

Rank filter is a non-linear filter used in image processing for impulse noise removal, morphological operations, and image enhancement. Real-time applications, such as video and high-speed acquisition cameras, often require the rank filter, and the much simpler median filter. Implementing the rank filter in hardware, can achieve the required speeds for these applications. Bit-serial algorithm can increase the speed of rank filter by eliminating the time-consuming sorting network. In this paper, an 8-stage pipelined architecture for rank filter is described using the bit-serial algorithm. It also includes an efficient window extraction and boundary-processing scheme. This rank filter design was simulated and synthesized on the Xilinx family of FPGAs. For 3×3 window size, the maximum operating frequency achieved was 75 MHz on a low-end device XC3S200 of Spartan-3 family, and 180 MHz on a high-end device XC4VSX25 of Virtex-4 family. For 5×5 window size, the maximum operating frequency achieved was 67 MHz on XC3S200, and 138 MHz on XC4VSX25. With a pixel filtered out at every clock cycle, the achieved speeds are sufficient for most of the video applications. The 3×3 window size design used 31% of slices on XC3S200, and 5% on XC4VSX25. The 5×5 window size design used 60% of slices on XC3S200, and 11% on XC4VSX25. This IP design may be used as a hardware accelerator in a fast image processing SOC.
Conceptual and numerical model of uranium(VI) reductive immobilization in fractured subsurface sediments

A conceptual model and numerical simulations of bacterial U(VI) reduction in fractured subsurface sediments were developed to assess the potential feasibility of biomineralization at the fracture/matrix interface as a mechanism for immobilization of uranium in structured subsurface media. The model envisions flow of anaerobic groundwater, with or without acetate as an electron donor for stimulation of U(VI) reduction by dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria (DMRB), within mobile macropores along a one-dimensional flow path. As the groundwater moves along the flow path, U(VI) trapped in the immobile mesopore and micropore domains (the sediment matrix) becomes desorbed and transferred to the mobile macropores (fractures) via a first-order exchange mechanism. By allowing bacterial U(VI) reduction to occur in the mesopore domain (assumed to account for 12% of total sediment pore volume) according to experimentally-determined kinetic parameters and an assumed DMRB abundance of 10 7 cells per cm 3 bulk sediment (equivalent to 4 mg of cells per dm 3 bulk sediment), the concentration of U(VI) in the macropore domain was reduced ca. 10-fold compared to that predicted in the absence of mesopore DMRB activity after a 6-month simulation period. The results suggest that input of soluble electron donors over a period of years could lead to a major redistribution of uranium in fractured subsurface sediments, converting potentially mobile sorbed U(VI) to an insoluble reduced phase (i.e. uraninite) in the mesopore domain that is expected to be permanently immobile under sustained anaerobic conditions. � 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Total Parenteral Nutrition in Cancer Patients

One hundred and twenty-one cancer patients received 134 courses of total parenteral nutrition (TPN); almost all were treated with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. The average weight loss prior to TPN was 6.7 kg and albumin 3.1 g%/patient; 25% glucose solution with 4.25 g% amino acids was used as a calorie and nitrogen source. The average weight gain was 2.6 kg for those who received TPN 2 wk. Complications were low; 3% had proven TPN-related septicemia. Mild to moderate reversible metabolic complications were common, although severe complications were rare; no one died because of TPN. Our experience confirms the previous reports that TPN can be given safely to malnourished compromised cancer patients.
Protein kinase C regulates nutrient uptake and growth in hepatoma cells

Background: Human hepatoma cells extract glutamine at rates severalfold greater than normal hepatocytes through a high-affinity transporter encoded by the ATB0 gene, which contains two putative phosphorylation sites for protein kinase C (PKC). The studies presented here were undertaken to determine whether System B0-mediated glutamine uptake regulates hepatoma growth and whether PKC regulates the activity of this transporter. Methods: SK-Hep cells were treated with the PKC activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and the initial-rate transport of glutamine and other nutrients measured at specific times thereafter. Growth rates were monitored during culture ± PMA or an excess of system B0 substrates relative to glutamine. Results: PMA treatment exerted a rapid (half-life ~ 15 minutes) concentration-dependent inhibition of glutamine uptake rates to 50% of control values via a posttranslational mechanism that decreased transporter maximum velocity. This effect persisted after 24 hours and was abrogated by the PKC inhibitor staurosporine. PMA also significantly decreased amino acid transport System y+ and System L activities but not System A. Chronic treatment with PMA (PKC depletion) inhibited SK-Hep growth, as did attenuation of System B0-mediated glutamine uptake with other B0 substrates. Conclusions: System B0-mediated glutamine uptake regulates hepatoma cell growth, whereas PKC influences both processes. (Surgery 1998;124:260-8)
A computerized system for measuring knowledge work

Abstract Defining and measuring the work performed by knowledge workers, a group traditionally considered unmeasurable, is an imperative if we are to reverse our current decline in labor productivity. Not only is a structured approach needed, but also a means of implementing this approach. A microcomputer-based system has been developed to meet this need. This information system includes a database and a spreadsheet. The database defines the work and provides input for the spreadsheet. The LOTUS spreadsheet accepts the measurement results and the calculated “target” completion time for the work, and then graphically compares this time and the actual time. This paper describes the methodology and the information system.
Complexity Metrics for Directional Node-Link System Representations: Theory and Applications

This paper presents an approach to defining and quantifying the complexity of systems as represented in mixed (directed and non-directed) bipartite graphs through the presentation of a central example as well as other applications. The approach presented defines nine measurements of different properties of the graph system. These measurements are derived from the representation of the system into a three dimension relational design structure matrix as well as the projections and transformations of this matrix. The metrics generated address dimensional and connective size, shortest path properties, and the decomposability of the system. Finally, a normalization and aggregate approach of these metrics is then given. This aggregation is visualized with spider graphs that facilitate viewing multiple aspects of complexity within a single perspective.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
A pulsed and flattopped 24 kG &#183; m beam switching magnet system

A pulsed and flattopped switching magnet system has been developed for time sharing of the 12.5 GeV proton beam of the zero gradient synchrotron (ZGS) at Argonne National Laboratory. When pulsing this magnet during a 0.5 s long slow ejected beam spill of the ZGS to one experimental area, this spill is interrupted three times and the beam deflected 3° 10' to a bubble chamber experiment. The system is capable of repeating a flattop within ±0.005% for time periods ranging from a few μs to many ms. This is accomplished by charging the magnet in an LCR circuit to the desired field value, then "crowbarring" the magnet and holding the field constant with an energy source in the crowbar.
Substrate selectivity, potential sensitivity and stoichiometry of Na+-nucleoside transport in brush border membrane vesicles from human kidney

Recently, we demonstrated the presence of a Na(+)-nucleoside cotransport mechanism that transports both purine and pyrimidine nucleosides in human renal brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMV) (Gutierrez et al. (1992) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1105, 1-9). The objective of this study was to further elucidate the characteristics of this cotransport system in terms of electrical potential sensitivity, stoichiometry and substrate selectivity with respect to nucleoside analogs. In BBMV from human kidney, Na(+)-thymidine uptake was stimulated by an inside negative potential difference created by K+ and valinomycin. A hyperbolic relationship between initial rate of uridine uptake and Na+ concentration was obtained suggesting a Na(+)-nucleoside coupling stoichiometry of 1:1. Our previous study had demonstrated that the pyrimidines, thymidine, cytidine, and uridine and the purines, adenosine, 2'-deoxyadenosine, and guanosine, but not inosine and formycin B, were substrates of this system. To further define the substrate selectivity of the transporter, the interaction of the drugs, 2-chloroadenosine (2-ClAdo), 5-fluorouridine (5-FUrd) and 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine (5-IdUrd), nucleoside analogs that are modified on the base moiety was studied. The three compounds inhibited Na(+)-thymidine uptake in the vesicles via a competitive mechanism. The IC50 values for 2-ClAdo, 5-FUrd and 5-IdUrd were 75, 49, and 16 microM, respectively. In addition, 5-IdUrd trans-stimulated the initial uptake of thymidine into the vesicles suggesting that the two compounds share the same transporter. Collectively, these data suggest that Na(+)-nucleoside transport in the human renal brush-border membrane is an electrogenic process and that the kidney may play a role in the disposition and targeting of clinically important nucleoside analogs.
Function of Cockroach (Orthoptera: Blattidae) Aggregation Behavior

Data were gathered to test three hypotheses concerning the function of the aggregation behavior of the German cockroach, Blattella germanica (L.). The first is that aggregation serves to ameliorate a harsh environment and promote individual survival. Group and individual rearing experiments demonstrated a possible reduction of survival and growth rates with increased group size, in contrast to the increases suggested in previous literature. Bioassays demonstrated that information concerning the sexual composition of a population is present in residues left by the population and that this information may be exploited by other individuals. This result is consistent with two hypotheses, i.e., that roaches aggregate for purposes of mating, and that they select habitats based on information available from conspecifics. Bioassays also showed that a natural population of roaches, which had been subject to mortality due to control efforts, displayed a stronger aggregation response than did the laboratory strain. This result is consistent with the habitat selection hypothesis.
High on/off-ratio P-type oxide-based transistors integrated onto Cu-interconnects for on-chip high/low voltage-bridging BEOL-CMOS I/Os

A new P-type amorphous SnO thin-film transistor with high I on /I off ratio of >104 is developed, for the first time, as a component to complement N-type IGZO transistors for on-chip voltage-bridging BEOL-CMOS I/Os on conventional Si-LSI Cu-interconnects (Fig. 1). Dedicated low-temperature ( on /I off ratio of >104 and high-V d capability (|V bd |>40V) with gate-to-drain offset structure, showing superior properties over the previously reported values (Table 1). The SnO transistor is suited for the BEOL-CMOS I/O, which gives standard LSIs a special add-on function to control high voltage signals directly in smart society applications.
Young Adults, Technology, and Weight Loss: A Focus Group Study

Overweight and obesity are a major concern in young adults. Technology has been integrated into many weight loss interventions; however little is known about the use of this technology in young adults. The purpose of this study was to explore through focus group sessions the opinions of young adults on the use of technology for weight loss. A total of 17 young adults, between 18 and 25 years of age, participated in three focus group sessions. Major results indicated that young adults have very little knowledge on the use of Smartphone technology for weight loss but would like to use this type of technology to help them lose weight. Results also indicated that young adults struggle to make healthy food choices and have priorities that outweigh exercise and they need support and guidance to make better decisions. In conclusion, young adults would be open to using Smartphone technology for weight loss but also need feedback and guidance to help make healthy decisions.
A model for unsteady-state gas flow in the longitudinal direction of wood

The longitudinal unsteady-state flow of compressible fluids in wood is modeled on a basis of series elements of differing permeabilities and three zones acting in parallel. Two of these zones having widely differing permeabilities are capable of varying degrees of intermixing while a third low-permeability zone is isolated from the other two. A good agreement between theoretical and experimental results was achieved by the appropriate selection of the parameters.
Stabilization of tumor necrosis factor α mRNA by chronic ethanol: Role of A + U-rich elements and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway

Increased expression of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) in response to chronic ethanol has been implicated in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease. However, the molecular mechanisms by which ethanol increases the levels of TNFα are not well characterized. Utilizing Kupffer cells isolated from rats fed an ethanol containing diet and a murine macrophage cell line, RAW264.7, exposed to ethanol in culture, we have demonstrated that exposure to chronic ethanol results in an enhanced expression of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced TNFα. While chronic ethanol had no effect on the rate of LPS-induced TNFα transcription as measured by nuclear run-on experiments, TNFα mRNA half-life was increased by chronic ethanol. Chronic ethanol also potentiated the activation of LPS-induced p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase in Kupffer cells, as well as in RAW264.7 cells. Specific inhibition of p38 MAP kinase activation by SB203580 in Kupffer cells or by overexpression of dominant negative p38 MAP kinase in RAW264.7 cells blocked ethanol-mediated TNFα mRNA stabilization. Furthermore, using chimeric reporter constructs, we have shown that A + U-rich elements in the 3′-untranslated region of TNFα mRNA are not sufficient to impart ethanol-mediated stabilization on TNFα mRNA.
Decomposition-by-normalization (DBN): leveraging approximate functional dependencies for efficient tensor decomposition

For many multi-dimensional data applications, tensor operations as well as relational operations need to be supported throughout the data lifecycle. Although tensor decomposition is shown to be effective for multi-dimensional data analysis, the cost of tensor decomposition is often very high. We propose a novel decomposition-by-normalization scheme that first normalizes the given relation into smaller tensors based on the functional dependencies of the relation and then performs the decomposition using these smaller tensors. The decomposition and recombination steps of the decomposition-by- normalization scheme fit naturally in settings with multiple cores. This leads to a highly efficient, effective, and parallelized decomposition-by-normalization algorithm for both dense and sparse tensors. Experiments confirm the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed decomposition-by-normalization scheme compared to the conventional nonnegative CP decomposition approach.
Hospital discharges, readmissions, and ED visits for COPD or bronchiectasis among US adults: findings from the nationwide inpatient sample 2001-2012 and Nationwide Emergency Department Sample 2006-2011

BACKGROUND:Numbers and rates of hospitalizations and ED visits by patients with COPD are important metrics for surveillance purposes. The objective of this study was to examine trends in these rates from 2001 to 2012 among adults aged ≥ 18 years in the United States. METHODS:Data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) and Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS) were examined for temporal trends in the numbers and rates of hospitalizations by patients with COPD or bronchiectasis, mean length of stay, in-hospital case-fatality rate, 30-day readmission rate, and numbers and rates of ED visits. RESULTS:The national number of discharges with COPD or bronchiectasis as the principal diagnosis was about 88,000 higher in 2012 than in 2001, but the age-adjusted rate of discharges did not change significantly (range, 242.7-286.0 per 100,000 population, P trend = .554). In contrast, hospitalization rates for common cardiovascular disorders, pneumonia, and lung cancer decreased significantly by 27% to 68%, whereas the mean charge doubled and mean cost increased by 40%. From 2006 to 2011, the numbers of ED visits increased from 1,480,363 to 1,787,612. The age-adjusted rate increased nonsignificantly from 654 to 725 per 100,000 population ( P trend = .072). CONCLUSIONS:Despite many local and national efforts to reduce the burden of COPD, total hospitalizations and ED visits over the past decade have increased for COPD, and the age-adjusted rates of hospitalizations and ED visits for COPD or bronchiectasis have not changed significantly in the United States.
Age differences in information acquisition strategies.

Abstract Age differences in information acquisition strategies were investigated by means of a visual 20-questions game. An optimal information acquisition strategy was made increasingly apparent across three experimental trials through strategy cues and demonstration. Three primary measures of information acquisition efficiency were defined and used to assess how closely the participants in three age groups (45–50 years, 60–65 years, 75–80 years) approximated ideal solution strategy. All measures indicate significant age group differences in the efficiency with which information was acquired, with the 45–50 year-old group scoring highest and the 75–80 year-old group scoring lowest. AH age groups improved significantly across the three trials. The problem solving efficiency of the 60–65 year-old group was similar to that of the 45–50 year-old group, but the 75–80 year-old group scored significantly lower on performance measures than did the two younger groups combined. When a categorical search strategy w...
High-pH form of bovine rhodopsin

Since the 1930s, the spectrum of vertebrate rhodopsin has been considered to be independent of pH (Lythgoe, R.J. 1937. J. Physiol. 89:331–358; Wald, G. 1938. J. Gen. Physiol. 21:795–832). Here I report that the spectrum of bovine rhodopsin is pH dependent. At pHs greater than 9.0, there is a shift to shorter wavelengths of its 500-nm absorption band. This shift is accounted for by the existence of a high pH form of bovine rhodopsin, with absorption maximum at 494 nm and a slightly lower extinction coefficient. The high-pH form results from the low-pH form by the deprotonation of a single group with a pK of approximately 10.2 for rhodopsin in rod disk membranes in 4.0 M KCl. The shift is observed for sheep and chicken rhodopsins, but not for frog, toad, and octopus rhodopsins. This indicates a specific amino acid difference between these rhodopsins that is potentially relevant for the mechanism of color regulation.
A Telemetric Multichannel Computer-Based System for Monitoring Urodynamic Parameters in Awake Rhesus Monkeys

ABSTRACTFor comprehensive telemetric monitoring of bladder function in monkeys, transducers were implanted in the bladder wall and abdominal cavity. The EMG lead was buried in the external sphincter. All wires terminated in a subcutaneous transmitter. Conventional urodynamics were performed for comparison. Excellent reproducibility with conventional urodynamics was found. Implantation caused detrusor instability, which subsided in 6 to 8 weeks.Real-time computer-based multichannel telemetric studies of voiding are feasible and reliable. Telemetric studies monitor for long periods without stress or anesthesia and provide an excellent model for lower urinary tract studies.
Cold War “Bridge-Building”: U.S. Exchange Exhibits and Their Reception in the Soviet Union, 1959–1967

Following the presentation of the American National Exhibition in Moscow in 1959, nine exhibits organized by the United States Information Agency traveled in the Soviet Union from 1961 to 1967. This article discusses the aims, preparation, content, and reception of these exhibits, which attracted more than five million visitors and provoked diverse reactions. The exhibitions and their guides served as a unique form of communication with Soviet citizens, informing them about U.S. achievements and freedoms and the American way of life. The initiatives offset Soviet Communist propaganda, advanced popular understanding of the United States, and promoted popular goodwill toward Americans. The low-key interactions between the guides and the visitors shed valuable light on the mindset and experiences of ordinary citizens in the USSR, who were a major target audience of these exhibitions, and also, more broadly, on U.S. public diplomacy during the Cold War.
A law of the iterated logarithm for random walk in random scenery with deterministic normalizers

LetX, X i ,i≥1, be a sequence of independent and identically distributed ℤ d -valued random vectors. LetS o=0 and $$S_n = \sum\nolimits_{i = 1}^n {X_i } $$ forn≤1. Furthermore letY, Y(α), α∈ℤ d , be independent and identically distributed ℝ-valued random variables, which are independent of theX i . Let $$Z_n = \sum\nolimits_{i = 0}^n {Y(S_i )} $$ . We will call (Z n ) arandom walk in random scenery. In this paper, we consider the law of the iterated logarithm for random walk in random scenery where deterministic normalizers are utilized. For example, we show that if (S n ) is simple, symmetric random walk in the plane,E[Y]=0 andE[Y 2]=1, then $$\mathop {\overline {\lim } }\limits_{n \to \infty } \frac{{Z_n }}{{\sqrt {2n\log (n)\log (\log (n))} }} = \sqrt {\frac{2}{\pi }} a.s.$$
A comparative location analysis of a retail activity: The gasoline service station

This study focuses on the competitive processes and locational patterns of a convenience retail activity within two urban areas exhibiting distinct differences in operational characteristics. Impacts of various economic, demographic, and political environmental factors on the distribution of gasoline service stations in urbanized Hong Kong and metropolitan Denver are examined. Measurement of distributional patterns (utilizing nearest-neighbor and spatial association statistics) and socioeconomic/demographic influences (employing regression analysis) reveal remarkable similarities between the two areas. Investigation of several site-related characteristics (zoning and intersection orientation) suggests that they may be significant agglomerative influences accounting both for the consistent location patterns as well as the weak explanatory power of demand variables.
Somatostatin: Abundance of Immunoreactive Hormone in Rat Stomach and Pancreas

Growth hormone release-inhibiting hormone (somatostatin), a hypothalamic peptide that inhibits the release of growth hormone and also the secretion of insulin glucagon, and gastrin, was found in the rat stomach and pancreas in a concentration similar to that in the hypothalamus, as measured by radioimmunoassay. Somatostatin was also found in the duodenum and jejunum, but in a smaller concentration. Gel filtration of the extracts of the pancreas and stomach on Sephadex G-25 yielded two immunoreactive peaks, one corresponding in each case to the somatostatin tetradecapeptide. The hormone was not detected in other viscera or the ovaries. The results imply that somatostatin may be synthesized in the pancreas and the stomach in addition to the brain, and may be involved in local regulatory mechanisms for pancreatic and gastric secretion as well as secretion of growth hormone.
The terms of authority

Abstract Many exchanges involve only a partial transfer of ownership rights. The employment relation is the standard example — an employer purchases the authority to use the worker's time in the most profitable way, within specified limits. This paper develops a model of the forces which determine the terms of authority.
Growth patterns of ordered cellular automata

Abstract Let F be the transition rule of an ordered cellular automaton. The author studies the geometry of a certain subset of Euclidean space associated to the sequence ω, Fω, F2ω,…,Fpω,… This subset yields information on the geometry and cardinality of Fpω for large p.
Spring Forward and Fall Back: Dynamics in Formation of Somite Boundaries

Oscillating signaling systems mediate the progressive division of mesoderm into segmental units, termed somites. A recent study using time-lapse analysis in living chick embryos has revealed that the process of somite boundary formation relies on a carefully choreographed series of cell movements, which are both unexpected and surprisingly intricate.
The Efficacy of Radiotherapy Relies upon Induction of Type I Interferon–Dependent Innate and Adaptive Immunity

The most widely held explanation for the efficacy of local radiotherapy (RT) is based on direct cytotoxicity to cancer cells through the induction of lethal DNA damage. Recent studies have shown that local ablative radiation of established tumors can lead to increased T-cell priming and T-cell-dependent tumor regression, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we describe an essential role for type I IFN in local RT-mediated tumor control. We show that ablative RT increases intratumoral production of IFN-β and, more surprisingly, the antitumor effect of RT is abolished in type I IFN nonresponsive hosts. Furthermore, the major target of RT-induced type I IFN is the hematopoietic compartment. RT drastically enhances the cross-priming capacity of tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells (TIDC) from wild-type mice but not type I IFN receptor-deficient mice. The enhanced cross-priming ability of TIDCs after RT was dependent on autocrine production of type I IFNs. By using adenoviral-mediated expression of IFN-β, we show that delivery of exogenous IFN-β into the tumor tissue in the absence of RT is also sufficient to selectively expand antigen-specific T cells leading to complete tumor regression. Our study reveals that local high-dose RT can trigger production of type I IFN that initiates a cascading innate and adaptive immune attack on the tumor.
Rabbit beta-globin is extended beyond its UGA stop codon by multiple suppressions and translational reading gaps.

Translational reading gaps occur when genetic information encoded in mRNA is not translated during the normal course of protein synthesis. This phenomenon has been observed thus far only in prokaryotes and is a mechanism for extending the reading frame by circumventing the normal stop codon. Reading frames of proteins may also be extended by suppression of the stop codon mediated by a suppressor tRNA. The rabbit β-globin read-through protein, the only known, naturally occurring read-through protein in eukaryotes, was sequenced by ion trap mass spectrometry to determine how the reading frame is extended. Seven different proteolytic peptide fragments decoded by the same sequence that spans the UGA stop codon of rabbit β-globin mRNA were detected. Three of these peptides contain translational reading gaps of one to three amino acids that correspond to the UGA stop codon site and/or one or two of the immediate downstream codons. To our knowledge, this is the first reported example of the occurrence of reading...
Identification of the Phenylcyclohexadienyl Radical in the Irradiated Benzene Crystal

Abstract In an irradiated benzene crystal, new absorption lines were observed on the low energy side in addition to the usual lines due to the cyclohexadienyl radical. These lines were attributed to the phenylcyclohexadienyl radical arising from the addition of the phenyl radical to a benzene molecule in the solid lattice. The isolated radical is quite stable for laser fluorescence and excitation studies. The deuterium shifts of the lowest electronic transition for a number of the cyclohexadienyl radicals are presented. A method of using the magnitude of the deuterium shift to estimate the size of the radical is proposed.
Optical properties of arrays of quantum dots with internal disorder

Optical properties of large arrays of isolated quantum dots are discussed in order to interpret the existent photoluminescence data. The presented theory explains the large observed shift between the lowest emission and absorption energies as the average distance between the ground and first excited states of the dots. The line shape of the spectra is calculated for the case when the fluctuations of the energy levels in quantum dots are due to the alloy composition fluctuations. The calculated line shape is in good agreement with the experimental data. The influence of fluctuations of the shape of quantum dots on the photoluminescence spectra is also discussed. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Unsettling aspects of voting theory

Voting procedures are known to be plagued with a variety of difficulties such as strategic voting, or where a voter is rewarded with a better election outcome by not voting, or where a winning candidate can lose by receiving more support. Once we know that these problems can occur, the next objective should be to completely understand how, why, and where they arise. Namely, for each election procedure, the new goal is to determine when such problems can occur, all voter types who can cause these difficulties, and the actions they must take. This paper develops an easily used approach to handle all of these issues for standard voting methods. New intuitive explanations for these various oddities follow from this approach.
A thermophilic green sulfur bacterium from New Zealand hot springs, Chlorobium tepidum sp. nov.

Thermophilic green sulfur bacteria of the genus Chlorobium were isolated from certain acidic high sulfide New Zealand hot springs. Cells were Gram-negative nonmotile rods of variable length and contained bacteriochlorophyll c and chlorosomes. Cultures of thermophilic chlorobia grew only under anaerobic, phototrophic conditions, either photoautotrophically or photoheterotrophically. The optimum growth temperature for the strains of thermophilic green sulfur bacteria isolated was 47–48°C with generation times of about 2 h being observed. The upper temperature limit for growth was about 52°C. Thiosulfate was a major electron donor for photoautotrophic growth while sulfide alone was only poorly used. N2 fixation was observed at 48°C and cell suspensions readily reduced acetylene to ethylene. The G+C content of DNA from strains of thermophilic chlorobia was 56.5–58.2 mol% and the organisms positioned phylogenetically within the green sulfur bacterial branch of the domain Bacteria. The new phototrophs are described as a new species of the genus Chlorobium, Chlorobium tepidum.
A pilot study to isolate Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S aureus from environmental surfaces in the home

Background The major sources of Staphylococcus aureus , including methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA), in the home are colonized or infected individuals and pets, such as cats and dogs; however, the occurrence of MRSA on surfaces in healthy homes is not well documented. Methods A convenience sample comprising 35 homes of health care and non–health care workers, each with a child in diapers and either a cat or dog in the home, was recruited from the Boston area between January and April 2006. In each home, a total of 32 surfaces were sampled in kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. Results S aureus was found in 34 of the 35 homes (97%) and was isolated from all surfaces in 1 or more homes, with the exception of the kitchen chopping board and the child training potty. MRSA was isolated from 9 of 35 homes (26%) and was found on a variety of household surfaces, including the kitchen and bathroom sinks, countertops, kitchen faucet handle, kitchen drain, dish sponge/cloth, dish towel, tub, infant high chair tray, and pet food dish. A positive correlation was indicated for the presence of a cat and the isolation of MRSA from surfaces. Conclusions This study has shown the presence of MRSA at hand-contact surfaces in healthy homes. This provides further evidence for the potential for infection transmission via inanimate surfaces and underscores the need for good hygiene practice in the home.
Ultrasound-modulated fluorescence based on donor-acceptor-labeled microbubbles

A fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based microbubble contrast agent system was designed to experimentally demonstrate the concept of ultrasound-modulated fluorescence (UMF). Microbubbles were simultaneously labeled with donor and acceptor fluorophores on the surface to minimize self-quenching and maximize FRET. In response to ultrasound, the quenching efficiency was greatly modulated by changing the distance between the donor and acceptor molecules through microbubble size oscillations. Both donors and acceptors exhibited UMF on individual microbubbles. The UMF strength of the donor was more significant compared to that of the acceptor. Furthermore, the UMF of the donor was observed from a microbubble solution in a turbid media. This study exploits the feasibility of donor–acceptor labeled microbubbles as UMF contrast agents.
The Limits of Conditionality: Nuclear Reactor Safety in Central and Eastern Europe, 1991-2001

The increasingly prominent role of conditionality as a tool for promoting economic and political reform in transition countries has provoked debate among academics and policy-makers about when and under what circumstances conditionality is effective. Since the early 1990s, the West has provided financial aid to countries operating unsafe Soviet-built nuclear reactors on the condition that these countries close down these reactors. Analysis of developments in Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Lithuania demonstrate that this use of conditionality has not been successful. More recently, the EU has set conditions regarding the closure of unsafe reactors in connection with these countries' bids to become EU members. This use of conditionality appears to have been more successful. However, there is still a possibility that one or more of these countries will enter the EU operating a “high risk” reactor, which raises the prospect of “intra-EU conditionality” coming into play after accession.
On the valuation of American call options on stocks with known dividends

Both the Roll and the Geske equations for the valuation of the American call option on a stock with known dividends are incorrectly specified. This note presents the corrected valuation formula, explains the misspecifications and provides a numerical example.
Hippocampus: Mapping or memory?

The identification of 'place cells' in the hippocampus has suggested a special role for this brain structure in spatial mapping, but other studies have indicated a more general role in memory. New findings on place cells point the way towards a reconciliation of the mapping and memory views.
beta-Hematin (hemozoin) mediated decompostion of polyunsaturated fatty acids to 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

beta-Hematin is an important heme metabolite of malarial infection. Its role as an agent mediating the formation of the reactive electrophile 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) from polyunsaturated fatty acids was investigated. In vitro formation of HNE was found to be facilitated by the presence of hemozoin in a concentration-dependent fashion. The reactivity of HNE derived from reaction with beta-hematin was confirmed through its ability to form protein adducts on myoglobin.
Simulation of a slope adapting ankle prosthesis provided by semi-active damping

Modern passive prosthetic foot/ankles cannot adapt to variations in ground slope. The lack of active adaptation significantly compromises an amputee's balance and stability on uneven terrains. To address this deficit, this paper proposes an ankle prosthesis that uses semi-active damping as a mechanism to provide active slope adaptation. The conceptual ankle prosthesis consists of a modulated damper in series with a spring foot that allows the foot to conform to the angle of the surface in the sagittal plane. In support of this approach, biomechanics data is presented showing unilateral transtibial amputees stepping on a wedge with their daily-use passive prosthesis. Based on this data, a simulation of the ankle prosthesis with semi-active damping is developed. The model shows the kinematic adaptation of the prosthesis to sudden changes in ground slope. The results show the potential of an ankle prosthesis with semi-active damping to actively adapt to the ground slope at each step.
Valve replacement in children: guidelines for selection of prosthesis and timing of surgical intervention.

One hundred fifty-nine patients ranging from 3 months to 18 years old (mean, 8.1 +/- 3.7 years) underwent 162 primary valve implantations. A porcine valve was used in 104 patients, a St. Jude Medical valve in 40, and a Bjork-Shiley valve in 18. The valve replaced was the aortic in 25 patients, the mitral (systemic atrioventricular [AV] valve) in 43, the pulmonary in 71, and the tricuspid (pulmonary AV valve) in 23. Hospital mortality was 6%. Patients with a Bjork-Shiley valve received warfarin sodium anticoagulation, and those with a St. Jude Medical valve were given salicylates and dipyridamole. Follow-up is available on all patients 0.6 to 12 years postoperatively (mean, 6.3 +/- 2.6 years). New York Heart Association Functional Class improved in 62% and remained unchanged in 38% of the patients. Thromboembolic complications occurred in only 8 (57%) of 14 patients with a St. Jude Medical valve in the right (pulmonary) side and in 3 (12%) of 26 with the valve in the left (systemic) side of the circulation. Bacterial endocarditis developed in 3 patients, all with porcine valves. Early valve replacement, less than 2 years after detection of hemodynamic deterioration, resulted in improvement in the ventricular ejection fraction in 25 of 29 patients (from 81 +/- 14% to 90 +/- 12% of normal; p less than 0.05). In contrast, the ejection fraction remained abnormal in all 22 patients with delayed valve insertion (more than 2 years) (81 +/- 16% of normal preoperatively and 80 +/- 10% of normal following operation; p = not significant).
Nontranscriptional modulation of intracellular Ca2+ signaling by ligand stimulated thyroid hormone receptor.

Thyroid hormone 3,5,3′-tri-iodothyronine (T3) binds and activates thyroid hormone receptors (TRs). Here, we present evidence for a nontranscriptional regulation of Ca2+ signaling by T3-bound TRs. Treatment of Xenopus thyroid hormone receptor beta subtype A1 (xTRβA1) expressing oocytes with T3 for 10 min increased inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-mediated Ca2+ wave periodicity. Coexpression of TRβA1 with retinoid X receptor did not enhance regulation. Deletion of the DNA binding domain and the nuclear localization signal of the TRβA1 eliminated transcriptional activity but did not affect the ability to regulate Ca2+ signaling. T3-bound TRβA1 regulation of Ca2+ signaling could be inhibited by ruthenium red treatment, suggesting that mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake was required for the mechanism of action. Both xTRβA1 and the homologous shortened form of rat TRα1 (rTRαΔF1) localized to the mitochondria and increased O2 consumption, whereas the full-length rat TRα1 did neither. Furthermore, only T3-bound xTRβA1 and rTRαΔF1 affected Ca2+ wave activity. We conclude that T3-bound mitochondrial targeted TRs acutely modulate IP3-mediated Ca2+ signaling by increasing mitochondrial metabolism independently of transcriptional activity.