cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pathways from performance monitoring to negative symptoms and functional outcomes in psychotic disorders.

Background Performance monitoring entails rapid error detection to maintain task performance. Impaired performance monitoring is a candidate pathophysiological process in psychotic disorders, which may explain the broader deficit in executive function and its known associations with negative symptoms and poor functioning. The current study models cross-sectional pathways bridging neurophysiological measures of performance monitoring with executive function, symptoms, and functioning. Methods Data were from the 20-year assessment of the Suffolk County Mental Health Project. Individuals with psychotic disorders (N = 181) were originally recruited from inpatient psychiatric facilities. Data were also collected from a geographically and demographically matched group with no psychosis history (N = 242). Neural measures were the error-related negativity (ERN) and error positivity (Pe). Structural equation modeling tested mediation pathways. Results Blunted ERN and Pe in the clinical cohort related to impaired executive function (r = 0.26-0.35), negative symptom severity (r = 0.17-0.25), and poor real-world functioning (r = 0.17-0.19). Associations with executive function were consistent across groups. Multiple potential pathways were identified in the clinical cohort: reduced ERN to inexpressivity was mediated by executive function (β = 0.10); reduced Pe to global functioning was mediated by executive function and avolition (β = 0.10). Conclusions This supports a transdiagnostic model of psychotic disorders by which poor performance monitoring contributes to impaired executive function, which contributes to negative symptoms and poor real-world functioning. If supported by future longitudinal research, these pathways could inform the development of targeted interventions to address cognitive and functional deficits that are central to psychotic disorders.
Topology optimization design of stretchable metamaterials with Bézier skeleton explicit density (BSED) representation algorithm

Abstract A new density field representation technique called the Bezier skeleton explicit density (BSED) representation scheme for topology optimization of stretchable metamaterials under finite deformation is proposed for the first time. The proposed approach overcomes a key deficiency in existing density-based optimization methods that typically yield designs that do not have smooth surfaces but have large number of small intricate features, which are difficult to manufacture even by additive manufacturing. In the proposed approach, Bezier curves are utilized to describe the skeleton of the design being optimized where the description of the entire design is realized by assigning thickness along the curves. This geometric representation technique ensures that the optimized design is smooth and concise and can easily be tuned to be manufacturable by additive manufacturing. In the optimization method, the density field is described by the Heaviside function defined on the Bezier curves. Compared to NURBS or B-spline based models, Bezier curves have fewer control parameters and hence are easier to manipulate for sensitivity derivation, especially for distance sensitivities. Due to its powerful curve fitting ability, using Bezier curve to represent density field allows exploring design space effectively and generating concise structures without any intricate small features at the borders. Furthermore, this density representation method is mesh independent and design variables are reduced significantly so that optimization problem can be solved efficiently using small-scale optimization algorithms such as sequential quadratic programming. Numerical optimization results in three typical tests, uniaxial tension, biaxial tension and shear tests are presented by imposing symmetry on a unit cell for lattice structure design. Numerical examples illustrate that the optimized metamaterials have better stretchability and higher stiffness, and hence the proposed method has great potential of impacting the design of future applications that exploit stretchability of structures.
Do Magnet®-Designated Hospitals Perform Better on Medicare's Value-Based Purchasing Program?

Objective The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between a hospital's Magnet recognition status, tenure, and its performance in the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing (HVBP) program. Background Previous studies have sought to determine associations between quality of care provided in inpatient setting and the Magnet Recognition Program; however, no study has done so using the most recent (FY2017) iteration of the HVBP program, nor determined the influence a hospital's Magnet designation tenure has on HVBP scores. Method This study used a cross-sectional study design of 2686 hospitals using propensity score matching to reduce bias and improve comparability. Results Magnet-designated hospitals were associated with higher total performance, process of care and patient experience of care scores, and lower efficiency score. No association was identified between the length of time hospitals have been Magnet designated. Conclusion Findings suggest non-Magnet status hospitals need to consider implementing the principles of Magnet into their culture or participation in the Magnet Recognition Program to provide higher quality of care.
Consolidation Among Cardiologists Across U.S. Practices Over Time

Recent health reform efforts and changes in health care markets more broadly are creating a new financial reality for cardiologists and other health care providers ([1][1]). Although many of the initial value-based payment models focused on the inpatient setting, attention is now shifting to
Metagenomics in Agriculture: State-of-the-Art

The physical and chemical properties of soil depend upon the presence of microbial diversity. Metagenomics has potential contributions towards the study of the agriculturally important microbial population in the soil such as Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria (PGPRs). PGPRs have a huge prospective in endowing the structural and functional aspects of plant-microbial interactions followed by exploring the agronomically essential genes. The soil microbial resources can be exploited for identifying these novel genes. Metagenomics is an advanced genomic tool used to access the complete soil microbial diversity irrespective of their cultivable or non-cultivable nature. Recent molecular methods exploited for identification of desired genes are direct genomic DNA extraction, preparation of metagenomics libraries, heterologous gene expression and next-generation high throughput sequencing of environmental samples. Development of sustainable agriculture demands frequent exploitation and characterization of PGPRs. Metagenomics can considerably provide paramount of the genetic information irrespective of the culturable subsets. Furthermore, it also potentially bridges the gaps in the genetic evolution of different unidentified species of microbial communities. The Recent Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology enables the effective combination of crop genotyping, high throughput metagenomics and detection of the diversity of plant pathogens and PGPRs. The present chapter discusses current impact of soil microbes and advanced metagenomics technologies on plant performance and sustained crop productivity.
A Highly Sensitive Non-Enzymatic Hydrogen Peroxide Sensor based on Palladium-Gold Nanoparticles

Here a simple strategy was employed to fabricate a hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) sensor based on gold nanoparticles and palladium nanoparticles onto a tungsten wire. The electrochemical activities of the bimetallic nanoparticles decorated electrode were characterized by the voltammetry and amperometry. The decorated electrode showed excellent catalytic activity towards the H2O2 reduction. The fabricated electrode demonstrated a good linear range, fast response time, good reproducibility, and a sensitivity of 0.317 mA mM-1 cm-2 for H 2 O 2 detection. In addition, it also showed good antiinterference capability towards common interfering analytes. Thereby, the fabricated sensor has the potential to be used as a simple, rapid, and cost-effective non-enzymatic sensor.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: prime time for a precision-based approach to treatment with N-acetylcysteine

Prime time for a precision-based approach for treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis with an antioxidant, N-acetylcysteinehttps://bit.ly/30gl9vG
An Evaluation of Ethernet Performance for Scientific Workloads

Priority-based Flow Control (PFC), RDMA over Converged Ethernet (RoCE) and Enhanced Transmission Selection (ETS) are three enhancements to Ethernet networks which allow increased performance and may make Ethernet attractive for systems supporting a diverse scientific workload. We constructed a 96-node testbed cluster with a 100 Gb/s Ethernet network configured as a tapered fat tree. Tests representing important network operating conditions were completed and we provide an analysis of these performance results. RoCE running over a PFC-enabled network was found to significantly increase performance for both bandwidth-sensitive and latency-sensitive applications when compared to TCP. Additionally, a case study of interfering applications showed that ETS can prevent starvation of network traffic for latency-sensitive applications running on congested networks. We did not encounter any notable performance limitations for our Ethernet testbed, but we found that practical disadvantages still tip the balance towards traditional HPC networks unless a system design is driven by additional external requirements.
La pandemia: ¿el acto final de Donald Trump?*

Resumen Se examina la gestion de Donald Trump, presidente de los EEUU, en la pandemia de covid-19.
Triage of progressive dizziness: a case report

The aim of this study is to discuss the role of the chiropractor in triage of a patient presenting with acute onset of worsening dizziness of unknown etiology. We present a 66-year-old-female who presented to a hospital-based chiropractic clinic with acute onset worsening dizziness with multiple comorbid conditions. Patient presented to the chiropractic clinic for routine management of low back pain; however, upon review of systems, the patient indicated symptoms as described above. The patient was immediately transported to the ED for further evaluation and work up by the appropriate medical professionals. Patient was admitted for observation with suspected intracranial hemorrhage. The role of the chiropractor in a multidisciplinary setting includes not only evaluation and management of musculoskeletal conditions, but also the identification of red flag signs and initiation of triage in efforts of providing complete and comprehensive, patient-centered care. This case report highlights the importance of detailed history, review of systems, and physical examination in an outpatient clinical setting, regardless of the specialty of the practitioner.
Natural Language Mapping of Electrocardiogram Interpretations to a Standardized Ontology.

Background Interpretations of the electrocardiogram (ECG) are often prepared using software outside the electronic health record (EHR) and imported via an interface as a narrative note. Thus, natural language processing is required to create a computable representation of the findings. Challenges include misspellings, nonstandard abbreviations, jargon, and equivocation in diagnostic interpretations. Objectives Our objective was to develop an algorithm to reliably and efficiently extract such information and map it to the standardized ECG ontology developed jointly by the American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology Foundation, and the Heart Rhythm Society. The algorithm was to be designed to be easily modifiable for use with EHRs and ECG reporting systems other than the ones studied. Methods An algorithm using natural language processing techniques was developed in structured query language to extract and map quantitative and diagnostic information from ECG narrative reports to the cardiology societies' standardized ECG ontology. The algorithm was developed using a training dataset of 43,861 ECG reports and applied to a test dataset of 46,873 reports. Results Accuracy, precision, recall, and the F1-measure were all 100% in the test dataset for the extraction of quantitative data (e.g., PR and QTc interval, atrial and ventricular heart rate). Performances for matches in each diagnostic category in the standardized ECG ontology were all above 99% in the test dataset. The processing speed was approximately 20,000 reports per minute. We externally validated the algorithm from another institution that used a different ECG reporting system and found similar performance. Conclusion The developed algorithm had high performance for creating a computable representation of ECG interpretations. Software and lookup tables are provided that can easily be modified for local customization and for use with other EHR and ECG reporting systems. This algorithm has utility for research and in clinical decision-support where incorporation of ECG findings is desired.
Temperature prediction of space flight experiments by computer thermal analysis

Life sciences experiments are especially sensitive to temperature. A small temperature difference between otherwise identical samples can cause various differences in biological reaction rates. Knowledge of experimental temperatures and temperature histories help to distinguish the effects of microgravity and temperature on spaceflight experiments compared to ground based studies, and allow appropriate controls and sensitivity tests. Up to the present time, the Orbiter (Space Shuttle) has not generally provided temperature measurement instrumentation inside ambient lockers located in the Mid-deck of the Orbiter, or inside similar facilities such as Spacehab and Spacelab, but many pieces of hardware do have temperature recording capability. Most of these temperatures, however, have only been roughly measured or estimated. Such reported experimental temperatures, while accurate within a range of several degrees Celsius, are of limited utility to biological researchers. The temperature controlled lockers used in spaceflight, such as Commerical-Refrigeration Incubation Modules (C-R/IMs), severely reduce the mass and volume available for test samples and do not necessarily provide uniform thermal environments. While these test carriers avoid some of the experimental temperature variations of the ambient lockers, the number of samples which can be accommodated in these temperature controlled units is limited. In the present work, improved models of thermal prediction and control were sought. Temperatures are predicted by thermal analysis software using empirical temperatures recorded during STS-57. These temperatures are compared to data recorded throughout the mission using Ambient Temperature Recorders (ATRs) located within several payload lockers. Additional test cases are undertaken using controlled ground experiments to more precisely determine the reliability of the thermal model. The approach presented should increase the utility of various spaceflight carriers in the support of biological and material science research and ground control studies done in preparation for flight.
Serotonin‐1B receptor‐mediated inhibition of [3H]GABA release from rat ventral tegmental area slices

In order to assess a role of 5-HT1B receptors for regulation of GABA transmission in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), VTA slices from the rat were incubated with [3H]GABA and β-alanine, and superfused in the presence of nipecotic acid and aminooxyacetic acid. [3H]GABA release was induced by exposures to the medium containing 30 mm potassium for 2 min. The results showed that high potassium-evoked [3H]GABA release was sensitive to calcium withdrawal or blockade of sodium channels by tetrodotoxin, suggesting that tritium overflow induced by high potassium derived largely from neuronal stores. Administration of CP 93129 (0.15 and 0.45 µm), a 5-HT1B receptor agonist, or RU 24969 (0.15 and 0.45 µm), a 5-HT1B/1A receptor agonist, but not 8-OH-DPAT (0.45 µm), a 5-HT1A receptor agonist, inhibited high potassium-evoked [3H]GABA release in a concentration-related manner. The RU 24969-induced inhibition of [3H]GABA release was antagonized by either SB 216641, a 5-H1B receptor antagonist, or cyanopindolol, a 5-HT1B/1A receptor antagonist, but not by WAY 100635, a 5-HT1A receptor antagonist. Pre-treatment with SB 216641 also antagonized CP 93129-induced inhibition of [3H]GABA release. The results support the hypothesis that 5-HT1B receptors within the VTA can function as heteroreceptors to inhibit GABA release.
Structure and breakup of flocs subjected to fluid stresses: II. Theory

Abstract An improved model for the breakup of an isolated floc in a shear flow is developed, similar in concept to previous versions but generalized to consider a spatial variation of the internal volume fraction of the form ϕ ∝ rD−3. Assumptions of linear elasticity and the Mises criterion for yield, with moduli and critical stress varying with volume fraction as φn, produce a relationship between floc radius R and shear rate γ of the form R ∼ γ (D−1) 2n(D−3) in the nondraining limit. Our experimental results for floc breakup are correlated with D = 2.48 and n = 4.45, in good agreement with independent measures of D from the floc mass and n from the elasticity of flocculated networks. The maximum strain at rupture is estimated to be ∼5%, in accord with the limit of linearity in the elasticity experiments. More general theoretical results are also presented to facilitate comparison with future experiments.
Identification of factors affecting the implementation of data warehousing

This study is valuable to data warehousing practitioners and researchers because it identifies key areas that organizations need to address in their implementation process. The exploratory factor analyses on both the Actual-scale and the Should-scale produced several factors not previously found in the body of implementation literature, as well as identified additional items contributing to previously classified factors affecting system implementation. Many of these items supported the ideas expressed by the experts during the semi-structured interviews as being unique to data warehousing implementations.
Pious Property: Islamic Mortgages in the United States

Pious Property: Islamic Mortgages in the United States. Bill Maurer. New York: Russell Sage Foundation, 2006. 123 pp.
Stakeholder pensions and residency

This paper covers the residency requirements for personal pensions and stakeholders and considers whether eligibility continues once an individual moves abroad. By way of comparison, the paper also covers the position of members of occupational pension schemes who are seconded abroad.
Metal–Semiconductor Contacts

In this chapter, we are concerned with the basic physical principles, electrical properties, and applications of the metal-semiconductor contacts and devices. It is well known that the quality of metal-semiconductor contacts plays an important role in the performance of various semiconductor devices and integrated circuits. For example, good ohmic contacts are essential for achieving excellent electrical characteristics of a semiconductor device, while Schottky (i.e., rectifying) contacts can be used for a wide variety of device applications. In addition to a wide variety of device and circuit applications, Schottky barrier contacts can also be used as test vehicles for investigating the physical and electrical properties of a semiconductor material and its surfaces. For example, a Schottky diode can be used to study bulk defects and interface properties of a metal-semiconductor system. Therefore, it is essential to obtain a better understanding of the fundamental physical and electrical properties of the metal-semiconductor interface so that technologies for preparing good ohmic and Schottky contacts can be developed for device applications.
Balancing the ex-Bell system companies

The ex-Bell System companies have upstream centres of gravity with a production/operations orientation in the telecommunications industry supply chain, just as AT&T had prior to divestiture. The new environment suggests that they should change to a more downstream centre of gravity with a stronger marketing orientation. AT&T, the regional Bell operating companies and the local exchange carriers are taking various innovative actions to start moving in that direction. However, all of the ex-Bell System companies face serious internal and external impediments to making successful changes in their centre of gravity. An organizational resizing strategy can address those impediments in effecting the desired shift.
A Statistical Method to Determine Pollutant Sources

The purpose of this paper is to present a new method enforcing water quality standards. Regulations have been developed by various agencies to maintain healthy water body within their jurisdictions. In the United States, the mechanisms used to do this are discharge permits for each discharger and stream standards for the receiving water body. The traditional approach in the U. S. has been self-monitoring by the discharger coupled with random but infrequent samples collected by the various regulatory groups. The enforcing agencies need an effective program that detects violations efficiently with limited resources.
Switching on Gene Expression: Analysis of the Factors that Spatially and Temporally Regulate Plant Gene Expression

The proper spatial and temporal expression pattern of genes has been shown in many organisms to be essential in regulating developmental processes (1, 2). Furthermore, transcriptional regulation of gene expression has been shown to play a fundamental role in enabling organisms to respond to external stimuli. The molecular mechanisms through which transcription is carried out have been intensely studied and our understanding of these processes has grown at a rapid pace. These mechanisms integrate a multitude of proteins interacting with one another and with enhancer and promoter sequences.
Multiscale Medial Analysis of Medical Images

The Multiscale Medial Axis is a means for detecting and representing object shape at multiple scales simultaneously. One of its key characteristics is that the scale used to measure object properties (and hence to represent the object) is proportional to the local size of the object. This allows it to separate fine-scale detail from larger-scale gross shape properties of the object in a manner dictated by the object itself. It works directly from image intensities and does not require a prior segmentation of the image or explicit determination of object boundaries. Fuzzy (non-binary) boundary measures are used to compute fuzzy medial measures, and axis points are identified as ridges in this fuzzy medial space. This paper presents some of the basic concepts of the Multiscale Medial Axis, describes its computation, and demonstrates some preliminary results of its application to medical images from a variety of imaging modalities.
Reversing the Balance Wheel Principle

The paper discusses funding principles and policies of higher education during the recession period. The role of state appropriations for the viability of public higher education institutions is emphasized. State funding affecting institutional behaviour is another issue raised. The paper analyzes the possibility of expanding state funding for higher education institutions instead of cutting during economic recession. The examples of Midwestern states is discussed for this purpose. Funding higher education institutions is perceived as an important component of the process of investing in human capital. Referring to scholarly findings, Leader-Laggard Model and Event History Analysis are suggested as optimal methods for evaluating the implementation of new policies as they spread from one state to another.
The mechanical impedance of the human body in sitting and standing position at low frequencies.

The theory of the mechanical impedance of systems with one or more degrees of freedom is applied to the human body. A method of measuring mechanical impedance and determining the parameters of the vibrating systems is developed. Impedance curves for longitudinal vibrations of a sitting and standing subject are established for the frequency range of 1 to 20 c/s. The influence of varied posture and restraining systems is investigated. Dynamic movements of body parts are measured, directly or indirectly, and compared with the impedance curves. The responsible elements in the body for the apparent resonances are identified. Correlations between the impedance function of the body and the subjective tolerance curve to vibration are found and the reasons for the tolerance limits are elucidated. The variability of subjective tolerances due to varying posture, restraining systems, cushions, duration of exposure and vibrations are discussed, and conclusions for the development of protective devices are drawn. The c...
Musculoskeletal simulation can help explain selective muscle degeneration in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disease that occurs due to the deficiency of the dystrophin protein. Although dystrophin is deficient in all muscles, it is unclear why degeneration progresses differently across muscles in DMD. We hypothesized that each muscle undergoes a different degree of eccentric contraction during gait, which could contribute to the selective degeneration in lower limb muscle, as indicated by various amounts of fatty infiltration. By comparing eccentric contractions quantified from a previous multibody dynamic musculoskeletal gait simulation and fat fractions quantified in a recent imaging study, our preliminary analyses show a strong correlation between eccentric contractions during gait and lower limb muscle fat fractions, supporting our hypothesis. This knowledge is critical for developing safe exercise regimens for the DMD population. This study also provides supportive evidence for using multiscale modeling and simulation of the musculoskeletal system in future DMD research.
Cross-channel correlation for the enhancement of noisy speech

A solution to the problem of the degradation of voiced speech by variable noise is proposed. The proposed method uses a filterbank analyzer to determine which areas of the spectrum contain periodicities. It is assumed that these periodicities are characteristic of voiced speech and that spectral areas which are lacking in periodicity arise from additive random noise. Correlation values, which indicate the amount of periodicity across the spectrum, are used for weights in the resynthesis of enhanced speech. Preliminary experimental results were obtained. These results indicate that the algorithm is useful for identifying noise-free and noisy areas of the spectrum and that some restoration of the original magnitude spectrum is possible.
Volume holographic imaging for surface metrology with long working distances

Volume holographic imaging (VHI) utilizes the Bragg selectivity of volume holograms to achieve 3D optical slicing. The depth resolution of VHI degrades quadratically with increasing object distance like most 3D imaging systems. We have devised an imaging scheme that takes advantage of the superior lateral resolution of VHI and a-priori surface information about the object to build a profilometer that can resolve 50 μm features at a working distance of ≈ 50 cm. We discuss the scheme and present experimental results of surface profiles of MEMS devices.
Elastic buckling of cold-formed steel columns and beams with holes

Abstract Simplified methods for approximating the global, distortional, and local critical elastic buckling loads of cold-formed steel columns and beams with holes are developed and summarized. These methods provide engineering approximations appropriate for design, but are intended to be general enough to accommodate the range of hole shapes, locations, and spacings common in industry. The simplified methods are developed as a convenient alternative to shell finite element eigen-buckling analysis, which require laborious and subjective visual identification methods as well as commercial software not generally accessible to the engineering community. Global buckling of cold-formed steel beams and columns, including the influence of holes, is predicted with approximate “weighted average” cross-section properties formulated from classical energy-based stability solutions. Distortional and local buckling of a cold-formed steel member with holes are determined with the semi-analytical finite strip method, considering appropriate modifications to the element thickness and choice of buckling half-wavelength. The proposed methods are verified with shell finite element eigen-buckling studies. Unambiguous, simple methods for elastic buckling prediction of members with holes is central to the extension of the Direct Strength Method (DSM) for cold-formed steel member ultimate strength determination.
An Experimental Investigation of the Effects of Trampling on the Results of Lithic Microwear Analysis

Abstract Trampling has long been recognized as a potential obstacle to lithic microwear analysis, but the magnitude of its effects have not yet been objectively evaluated. A blind test was conducted in which the effects of trampling on the preservation of use-wear traces were measured. The results of this test suggest that even moderate amounts of human trampling may significantly alter the appearance of lithic microwear traces.
Llaves, voitures, and tope [keys (sp.), cars (fr.), and mud (Swahili)] — the real reasons behind success or failure of field crop protection projects

Crop protection research in the Tropics is always interesting and challenging, and usually professionally rewarding. Once involved, researchers often find it difficult to leave international research settings. However, the wise field scientist, when choosing such a career, will make Barley ’s (3) “The Innocent Anthropologist ” required reading and purchase a very good pair of binoculars and a local bird guide. Even the most resourceful individual is going to have a considerable amount of time to add birds to one ’s life list, improve species distribution maps, or possibly even identify a new species while waiting for the key to be found, the vehicle to show up, or the mud to dry out.
ASTRO-FOLD: A Combinatorial and Global Optimization Framework for Ab Initio Prediction of Three-Dimensional Structures of Proteins from the Amino Acid Sequence

The field of computational biology has been revolutionized by recent advances in genomics. The completion of a number of genome projects, including that of the human genome, has paved the way toward a variety of challenges and opportunities in bioinformatics and biological systems engineering. One of the first challenges has been the determination of the structures of proteins encoded by the individual genes. This problem, which represents the progression from sequence to structure (genomics to structural genomics), has been widely known as the structure-prediction-in-protein-folding problem. We present the development and application of ASTRO-FOLD, a novel and complete approach for the ab initio prediction of protein structures given only the amino acid sequences of the proteins. The approach exhibits many novel components and the merits of its application are examined for a suite of protein systems, including a number of targets from several critical-assessment-of-structure-prediction experiments.
A Mould Inhibitor in Soybeans

SEEDS of Glycine max Merr. (soybean) contain several biologically active materials, including saponins and trypsin inhibitors1. However, in a recent review of the antimicrobial activity of vascular plants2, no mention is made of the occurrence of antimicrobial compounds in soybeans. We are reporting the presence of a factor (s) that inhibits the mould growth of Rhizopus sp. (provisionally identified as R. oligosporus Saito), which is utilized in the fermentation of soybeans to make the Indonesian food tempeh3.
Commitment and weakness of will in game theory and neoclassical economics

Abstract This paper draws on theoretical and experimental studies in game theory and on the neoclassical concept of intertemporal inconsistency in choice to argue that the motivational theory shared by neoclassical economics and noncooperative game theory is mistaken in assuming that commitment never takes place in human decisions. The paper first gives two parallel examples, one of intertemporal inconsistency in a financial decision, and the other of noncooperative (subgame perfect) equilibrium in a game in extensive form. So far as one decision-maker is concerned, the two decisions are isomorphic, and both can be associated with weakness of will. By contrast, the cooperative analysis of the game (along the lines originally suggested by von Neumann and Morgenstern) predicts a different decision associated with commitment to a particular conditional sequence of “behavior strategies”, i.e. a particular pure strategy. In effect the cooperative analysis assumes perfect strength of will. The paper then argues that strength of will and rationality of decisions are independent dimensions of a decision process and reviews some experimental evidence that suggests that both traditions are mistaken in their extreme assumptions about commitment or strength of will: neoclassical economics and noncooperative game theory in assuming that commitment never takes place, and cooperative game theory in assuming that it always does. The evidence indicates moreover that commitment is more likely in at least one context of value judgments than in its absence. The value context is reciprocity. It is suggested that a focus of research on the circumstances that favor commitment – rather than on modifications of an assumed utility function to accommodate non-self-regarding motivations – might lead to a more fruitful behavioral economics and behavioral game theory.
Effects of Oxidative and Nitrative Challenges on α-Synuclein Fibrillogenesis Involve Distinct Mechanisms of Protein Modifications

Filamentous inclusions of alpha-synuclein protein are hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases collectively known as synucleinopathies. Previous studies have shown that exposure to oxidative and nitrative species stabilizes alpha-synuclein filaments in vitro, and this stabilization may be due to dityrosine cross-linking. To test this hypothesis, we mutated tyrosine residues to phenylalanine and generated recombinant wild type and mutant alpha-synuclein proteins. alpha-Synuclein proteins lacking some or all tyrosine residues form fibrils to the same extent as the wild type protein. Tyrosine residues are not required for protein cross-linking or filament stabilization resulting from transition metal-mediated oxidation, because higher Mr SDS-resistant oligomers and filaments stable to chaotropic agents are detected using all Tyr --> Phe alpha-synuclein mutants. By contrast, cross-linking resulting from exposure to nitrating agents required the presence of one or more tyrosine residues. Furthermore, tyrosine cross-linking is involved in filament stabilization, because nitrating agent-exposed assembled wild type, but not mutant alpha-synuclein lacking all tyrosine residues, was stable to chaotropic treatment. In addition, the formation of stable alpha-synuclein inclusions in intact cells after exposure to oxidizing and nitrating species requires tyrosine residues. These findings demonstrate that nitrative and/or oxidative stress results in distinct mechanisms of alpha-synuclein protein modifications that can influence the formation of stable alpha-synuclein fibrils.
The effects of practice upon rehearsal in short-term memory

Ss were allowed to pace their acquisition of nine items in a memory task, and the distribution of their rehearsal was measured. Peak rehearsal pauses changed positions across the first five trials but occurred at the same positions across the last five. Thus, Ss used the first trials to test various acquisition strategies and select among them the one that enabled them to maximize their recall.
Egg handling and storage

The temperature and relative humidity of storage, as well as the gaseous environment, interact with the fertile egg over time during storage in such a way as to affect the success of incubation either negatively or positively. This interaction occurs both above and below the "physiological zero", at which embryonic metabolism is minimal. This interaction below physiological zero implies that certain physical aspects of the egg must be affected by the environmental conditions. As the eggshell is a relatively fixed component, changes in albumen, shell membranes, cuticle, yolk, or embryo proper must account for these time- and environment-related effects. It is concluded that the major contributor is the albumen, as it is obviously the most dynamic component below physiological zero and is strategically positioned.
Elevated Ca2+ transients and increased myofibrillar power generation cause cardiac hypercontractility in a model of Noonan syndrome with multiple lentigines.

Noonan syndrome with multiple lentigines (NSML) is primarily caused by mutations in the nonreceptor protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 and associated with congenital heart disease in the form of pulmonary valve stenosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Our goal was to elucidate the cellular mechanisms underlying the development of HCM caused by the Q510E mutation in SHP2. NSML patients carrying this mutation suffer from a particularly severe form of HCM. Drawing parallels to other, more common forms of HCM, we hypothesized that altered Ca2+ homeostasis and/or sarcomeric mechanical properties play key roles in the pathomechanism. We used transgenic mice with cardiomyocyte-specific expression of Q510E-SHP2 starting before birth. Mice develop neonatal onset HCM with increased ejection fraction and fractional shortening at 4–6 wk of age. To assess Ca2+ handling, isolated cardiomyocytes were loaded with fluo-4. Q510E-SHP2 expression increased Ca2+ transient amplitudes during excitation-contraction couplin...
SQL translation using an attribute grammar

Abstract SQL translation can be simplified if the target language is well defined. A welldefined target language allows the semantics of SQL to be specified in terms of an attribute grammar that maps SQL phrases to that target language. A translator that interprets the attribute grammar generates the target language as a by-product of parsing an SQL statement. The target language defined here is a variation of relational algebra notation. By augmenting SQL grammar with semantic rules in terms of relational algebra it is possible to simplify SQL translation. These concepts are illustrated with an attribute grammar for an SQL subset and examples that demonstrate the translation process.
Secondary lens formation caused by implantation of pituitary into the eyes of the newt, Notophthalmus

Abstract Whole pituitary glands, as well as equivalent-sized pieces of kidney, liver, and adrenal tissue, were implanted into the anterior chamber of the adult newt eye. Secondary lens formation was present in 16 out of 17 cases of the pituitary implantation experiments in which the pituitary tissues were exposed to the anterior chamber fluid. In only one case out of 23, did another implanted tissue (liver) stimulated secondary lens formation. The extent of secondary lens formation was correlated with the position (closeness) of the implant in relationship to the dorsal iris. In all cases of secondary lens formation from the dorsal iris stimulated by tissue implants, the polarity of the developing lens was reversed so that the pole of the fiber axis was directed toward the implant rather than the retina. It appears that the ectopic pituitary produces a diffusible substance capable of initiating lens formation from the dorsal margin of the iris and capable of determining the orientation of the fiber axis pole of the developing lens.
Ultrafast Structure and Dynamics in Ionic Liquids: 2D-IR Spectroscopy Probes the Molecular Origin of Viscosity.

The viscosity of imidazolium ionic liquids increases dramatically when the strongest hydrogen bonding location is methylated. In this work, ultrafast two-dimensional vibrational spectroscopy of dilute thiocyanate ion ([SCN]−) in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([C4C1im][NTf2]) and 1-butyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([C4C1C12im][NTf2]) shows that the structural reorganization occurs on a 26 ± 3 ps time scale and on a 47 ± 15 ps time scale, respectively. The results suggest that the breakup of local ion-cages is the fundamental event that activates molecular diffusion and determines the viscosity of the fluids.
Purification and properties of D-ribulose-5-phosphate 3-epimerase from calf liver.

Abstract d -Ribulose-5-phosphate 3-epimerase (EC 5.1.3.1) was purified 760-fold from calf liver by adsorption of DEAE-cellulose, chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex, chromatography on d -ribose 5-phosphate-Sepharose and gel filtration on Biogel P200. The purified enzyme of specific activity 617 units/mg was obtained in 28% yield and gave a single band on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. It had a molecular weight of 45 000 and appeared to contain two identical peptide chains of 22 900 daltons. The K m for d -ribulose 5-phosphate was 0.19 ± 0.07 mM (S.E.). It was inhibited by reagents reacting with sulphydryl groups, by sulphate ion, and by d -deoxyribose 5-phosphate. The pH-stability and pH-activity curves were determined.
Imaging of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment is fast emerging as a major health care issue in the United States. However, there are great uncertainties about the value of specific tests and therapies. Imaging modalities play a major role in the current management of patients with prostate cancer and this role is likely to expand in the future. Transrectal ultrasound is used to identify nonpalpable lesions, direct systematic biopsies, determine gland volume and stage prostate cancers. For staging skeletal metastases, the bone scan is acknowledged as the best method, however controversy surrounds its routine use in patients with low prostate specific antigen (PSA) values. Computed tomography (CT) and transrectal ultrasound have limited value in detecting extracapsular disease but CT can be used in conjunction with percutaneous biopsy to identify nodal metastases. The role of Endorectal coil MRI is currently evolving in the wake of a disappointing multi-institutional trial but MRI still holds the most promise for accurately detecting local extent of prostate cancer. New radiolabeled techniques with monoclonal antibodies and peptide imaging are also having early but promising results. The role of imaging in prostate cancer is continuing to evolve as technology and knowledge about prostate cancer biology improves and health care economics force a more judicious use of imaging resources.
Technical Services Workflow for Book Jobber-Mediated Demand Driven ebook Acquisitions

In 2012, Kent State University Libraries implemented a pilot project for a Demand Driven Acquisitions (DDA) ebook purchasing model that used a combination of the acquisition services provided by the primary book jobber (YBP) and the access services provided by an ebook distributer (eBrary). Using the book jobber mediated DDA model provided the library with selected discovery records that closely matched specifications of the library's print approval plan. New discovery records were added to the catalog each week as new DDA eligible ebooks became available. In this article the author provides an overview of the pilot project with an emphasis on the technical services aspects, implementation, and implications for a sustainable acquisitions model.
Subunits of the Translocon Interact with Components of the Oligosaccharyl Transferase Complex

Following initiation of translocation across the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum via the translocon, polypeptide chains are N-glycosylated by the oligosaccharyl transferase (OT) enzyme complex. Translocation and N-glycosylation are concurrent events and would be expected to require juxtaposition of the translocon and the OT complex. To determine whether any of the subunits of the OT complex and translocon mediate interactions between the two complexes, we initiated a systematic study in budding yeast using the split-ubiquitin approach. Interestingly, the OT subunit Stt3p was found to interact only with Sec61p, whereas another OT subunit, Ost4p, was found to interact with all three components of the translocon, Sec61p, Sbh1p, and Sss1p. The OT subunit Wbp1p was found to interact very strongly with Sec61p and Sbh1p and weakly with Sss1p. Other OT subunits, Ost1p, Ost2p, and Swp1p were found to interact with Sec61p and either Sbh1p or Sss1p. Ost3p exhibited a weak interaction with Sec61p and Sbh1p, whereas Ost5p and Ost6p interacted very weakly with Sec61p and failed to interact with Sbh1p or Sss1p. We were able to confirm these split-ubiquitin findings by a chemical cross-linking technique. Based on our findings using these two techniques, we conclude that the association of these two complexes is stabilized via multiple protein-protein contacts. Based on extrapolation of the structural parameters of the crystal structure of the prokaryotic Sec complex to the eukaryotic complex, we propose a working model to understand the organization of the translocon-OT supercomplex.
Development of the Gastrointestinal Mucosal Barrier V. Comparative Effect of Calcium Binding on Microvillus Membrane Structure in Newborn and Adult Rats

Electron spin resonance (ESR) and the spin label method, with 5-doxyl stearic acid as a probe, were used to investigate the structure of microvillus membrane (MVM) from small intestine of adult and newborn rats. It was shown that the spin label in MVM of newborn was maintained in a more disordered environment than the spin label in adult animals. Calcium ion was used as an external stimulus to study the structural response and organization of these two membrane preparations. Ca++ enhanced the order of 5-doxyl stearic acid labeled MVM from mature and immature rats in a concentration-dependent saturable process, but Ca++ exerted a greater ordering effect on MVM from immature than MVM from the mature rat. Ca++ binding to MVM was also a concentration-dependent, saturable process. MVM from immature rat bound significantly more Ca++ in CaCl2 concentration ranges from 12.5 micron to 4mM. Scatchard analysis of the binding data showed two classes of binding sites with a high affinity constant of 3.1 X 10(4) M-1 and a low affinity constant of 9.1 X 10(3) M-1, with corresponding maximum binding capacities for each class site of 129.8 nmole of calcium/mg protein and 252.7 nmole calcium/mg of protein in newborn and 13-day-old MVM. Only one high affinity constant of 2.6 X 10(4)M-1 with a corresponding maximum binding capacity of 106.4 nmole/mg of protein was observed in adult MVM. Proteolytic hydrolysis of the membranes by trypsin produced an increase in Ca++ binding in adult MVM and a decrease in Ca++ binding in newborn MVM. Neuraminidase and phospholipase C reduced the amount of bound Ca++ in both adult and newborn MVM. These results indicate a more disordered structure of newborn MVM and a differential effect of Ca++ on MVM during development.
The hypothalamus in parkinson disease

The hypothalamus was systematically examined in 30 patients with pathologically documented idiopathic parkinsonism. Using Lewy body formation as a marker for nerve cell degeneration, we observed abnormalities in every hypothalamus examined. Of the thirteen hypothalamic nuclei that could be individually identified, none were exempt from Lewy body degeneration. The tuberomamillary nucleus and the lateral and posterior hypothalamic nuclei demonstrated the highest average Lewy body counts (16, 9, and 3, respectively); they were also the most frequently involved nuclei. These findings may aid in interpretation of the autonomic and endocrine abnormalities in patients with Parkinson disease.