cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lattice representations for computability theory

Abstract Lattice representations are an important tool for computability theorists when they embed nondistributive lattices into degree-theoretic structures. In this expository paper, we present the basic definitions and results about lattice representations needed by computability theorists. We define lattice representations both from the lattice-theoretic and computability-theoretic points of view, give examples and show the connection between the two types of representations, discuss some of the known theorems on the existence of lattice representations that are of interest to computability theorists, and give a simple example of the use of lattice representations in an embedding result.
Optimal bounds for ordinal comparison maps

In this note, we answer the following question: Given two recursively presented well orderingsR, S of subsets of the natural numbers, what is the complexity of an ordinal comparison mapκ takingR isomorphically onto an initial segment ofS (or vice versa)?
Mouse spleen lymphocyte bactericidal and peroxidase activities: enhancement by whole body x-irradiation.

A 20,000 g pellet obtained from the homogenate of CD1 mouse spleen cells has measurable peroxidase and bactericidal activities. Whole body x-irradiation stimulates the in vitro peroxidative and bactericidal activities of the spleen cells. These cells do not phagocytize. However, addition of polystyrene latex particles to spleen cells from non- or x-irradiated mice, increases glucose oxidation. The extent of this stimulation (three- to fourfold) is less than that of PMN (six- to tenfold). Interaction between particles and lymphocyte surface may be the cause of this stimulation. The increased bactericidal activity due to x-ray is attribted mainly to an increase in the peroxidase activity of the lymphocytes. Surface (membrane) action rather that phagocytosis may be involved in the bactericidal process. The spleen lymphocyte peroxase is distinct from mylloproxidase in several resects.
Validity of the Woodcock-Johnson tests of achievement for learning-disabled students☆

Abstract Two independent samples of 40 and 32 elementary-aged, learning-disabled (LD) pupils were administered the Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement (WJTA), the Peabody Individual Achievement Test (PIAT), and the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT) following seven instructional months in an LD self-contained class. Concurrent validity coefficients between W-J achievement clusters and corresponding WRAT and PIAT subtests ranged between .64 and .93. Results from both samples were convergent, thus allowing corroboration of findings. Discrepancies among WJTA, WRAT, and PIAT grade equivalents and standard scores are discussed, as are possible limitations of the WJTA for use with learning disabled pupils.
Constraints on the nuclear compressibility from analysis of the breathing mode and density differences of lead isotopes

We examine the data on the giant monopole resonance in $^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$ and the information on the charge and neutron density differences in $^{208}\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}^{207}$Pb and $^{208}\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}^{206}$Pb to obtain a constraint on the nuclear compression modulus K. We employ the two-channel linear response theory in which the self-consistency relation between the mean field and the residual interaction is included. Two Skyrme-type interactions with substantially different values of K are used. It is demonstrated that the breathing mode energy, being dependent on properties of the interaction in the interior region, is more sensitive to K than the density differences. This analysis indicates values of K in the range K=210\char21{}250 MeV.
Engineering photosynthesis: synthetic redox proteins

Abstract The understanding of the principal parameters naturally selected to engineer biological electron transfer systems has been combined with techniques of de novo design and chemical synthesis of peptides to initiate a program of synthesis of simple proteins equipped with multiple redox cofactors. Our primary goal is to assemble functional redox protein maquettes of the large, complicated natural proteins such as the photosynthetic reaction center. Attention is focused on strategies for engineering and construction of well defined, stable four-helix bundles containing suitable redox cofactors optimized for efficient electron transfer.
Beyond Latin Americanism and other Accidental/Occidental tourism: Guatemala (NS) in seach of cultural theory, and more

This essay focuses on the current malaise in Latin American studies. More generally, it discusses how dogmatic theoretical assumptions, specifically postmode...
Ubiquitination and Phosphorylation in the Regulation of NOD2 signaling and NOD2-mediated Disease

The immune system is exquisitely balanced. It has the ability to effectively respond to and control infections while at the same time preventing inappropriate responses to self and environmental antigens. When this response goes awry, either through a failure to activate the immune response, or failure to terminate it, inflammatory pathology results. Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) such as ubiquitination and phosphorylation help ensure that the delicate balance underlying immune signal transduction is maintained. Ubiquitination and phosphorylation affect localization, activity, stability, and interactions of various components of the immune signal transduction machinery. Moreover, ubiquitination and phosphorylation are tightly linked, with one PTM affecting the other. Therefore, in order to find potential therapies for many immune-related pathologies, it is necessary to understand not only how the immune response is activated by ubiquitination and phosphorylation, but also how it is regulated by these PTMs at different stages of the response. An excellent system to study such activation and regulation is the NOD2 pathway. Dysregulation of NOD2 signaling is involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of inflammatory disorders including Crohn's disease, early onset sarcoidosis, and Blau syndrome. More recently NOD2 has been implicated in the development of autoimmune disease, allergy and asthma. This review will focus on what is currently known about how ubiquitination and phosphorylation regulate NOD2 signaling with particular emphasis on novel in vitro substrates which may serve as potential in vivo therapeutic targets for hyperactive NOD2 states. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Ubiquitin Drug Discovery and Diagnostics.
High‐resolution airborne profiles of CH4, O3, and water vapor near tropical Central America in late January to early February 2004

[1] High-resolution (1 Hz at true airspeeds near 200 m s−1) observations of methane, ozone, water vapor, and temperature taken between the surface and 18 km from the WB57F aircraft near San Jose, Costa Rica (10°N, 84°W), are used to examine processes influencing the maintenance of these profiles. There was a clearly defined thermal tropopause on each of the eight profiles, accompanied by structure on methane-ozone scatterplots on the five profiles having methane observations. There was a well-defined decrease in methane mixing ratio between approximately 12 and 15 km in each of these five profiles, 2–5 km beneath the thermal tropopause, correlated with sharp changes in water vapor and equivalent potential temperature. The methane observations are interpreted as meaning that air is recirculated between the lower stratosphere and the upper tropical troposphere. At the point on each vertical profile where the water vapor had its minimum value, the air was never saturated or apparently supersaturated, although apparent supersaturation with respect to ice was observed in vertically extensive, near-adiabatic layers with tops some 200–300 m below the water vapor minimum on all profiles. One of the profiles also exhibited apparent supersaturation above its water vapor minimum, near 18 km. We examine the decrease in water vapor to minimal values as a four-stage process in which its mixing ratio was lowered from ∼10 to ∼3 ppmv, consider the role of solar and thermal evaporation of the smaller ice particles in the final stage of the dehydration process, and correlate features separating near-adiabatic layers above 150 hPa pressure altitude with local sea surface temperatures.
Comparing keyword search to semantic search: a case study in solving crossword puzzles using the Google™ API

Keyword-based search engines such as Google" index Web pages for human consumption. Sophisticated as such engines have become, surveys indicate almost 25% of Web searchers are unable to find useful results in the first set of URLs returned (Technology Review, March 2004). The lack of machine-interpretable information on the Web limits software agents from matching human searches to desirable results. Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the Web, has architected the Semantic Web in which machine-interpretable information provides an automated means to traversing the Web. A necessary cornerstone application is the search engine capable of bringing the Semantic Web together into a searchable landscape. We implemented a Semantic Web Search Engine (SWSE) that performs semantic search, providing predictable and accurate results to queries. To compare keyword search to semantic search, we constructed the Google CruciVerbalist (GCV), which solves crossword puzzles by reformulating clues into Google queries processed via the Google API. Candidate answers are extracted from query results. Integrating GCV with SWSE, we quantitatively show how semantic search improves upon keyword search. Mimicking the human brain's ability to create and traverse relationships between facts, our techniques enable Web applications to think using semantic reasoning, opening the door to intelligent search applications that utilize the Semantic Web. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Location of the mutation site in the first two reported cases of analbuminemia.

Abstract Objective To find the mutation causing the first two reported cases of analbuminemia. Design and Methods DNA was extracted from blocks of fixed embedded liver. Exons of the albumin gene were amplified and sequenced. Results A substitution of C > T in exon 12 was found in both subjects, changing the codon CGA for arginine (aa509) to TGA, a stop codon. Conclusions The data suggest that analbuminemia is the result of widely scattered random mutations.
God Is Nothing but Talk: Modernity, Language, and Prayer in a Papua New Guinea Society

This article brings together theories of local modernity and of linguistic ideology to analyze the way the Urapmin of Papua New Guinea have encountered modern linguistic ideology through their Christianization. Against the prevailing anthropological focus on the indigenization of modernity, this article argues the importance of attending to cases in which people grasp the content of modernity on its own terms. Studying this kind of local modernity allows us to model an important kind of contemporary cultural change and discover neglected aspects of modernity as refracted through the experiences of people new to it. Here, an analysis of the Urapmin encounter with modern linguistic ideology reveals that ideology's rootedness in a model that ties meaning to intention and truthfulness and favors the speaker over the listener in the construction of meaning. It is suggested that an awareness of the biases of this ideology can open up new topics in linguistic anthropology. [modernity, linguistic ideology, religion, Christianity, Melanesia]
A Functional Linker in Human Topoisomerase I Is Required for Maximum Sensitivity to Camptothecin in a DNA Relaxation Assay

Human topoisomerase I is composed of four major domains: the highly charged NH2-terminal region, the conserved core domain, the positively charged linker domain, and the highly conserved COOH-terminal domain. Near complete enzyme activity can be reconstituted by combining recombinant polypeptides that approximate the core and COOH-terminal domains, although DNA binding is reduced somewhat for the reconstituted enzyme (Stewart, L., Ireton, G. C., and Champoux, J. J. (1997) J. Mol. Biol.269, 355–372). A reconstituted enzyme comprising the core domain plus a COOH-terminal fragment containing the complete linker region exhibits the same biochemical properties as a reconstituted enzyme lacking the linker altogether, and thus detachment of the linker from the core domain renders the linker non-functional. The rate of religation by the reconstituted enzyme is increased relative to the forms of the enzyme containing the linker indicating that in the intact enzyme the linker slows religation. Relaxation of plasmid DNA by full-length human topoisomerase I or a 70-kDa form of the enzyme that is missing only the non-essential NH2-terminal domain (topo70) is inhibited ∼16-fold by the anticancer compound, camptothecin, whereas the reconstituted enzyme is nearly resistant to the inhibitory effects of the drug despite similar affinities for the drug by the two forms of the enzyme. Based on these results and in light of the crystal structure of human topoisomerase I, we propose that the linker plays a role in hindering supercoil relaxation during the normal relaxation reaction and that camptothecin inhibition of DNA relaxation depends on a direct effect of the drug on DNA rotation that is also dependent on the linker.
Some consequences of a strong interface field-effect operating during the growth of TiO2-alloy crystals from the melt

Abstract A variety of anomalous crystal growth phenomena observed in TiO 2 -alloy single crystals prepared by the laser heated pedestal melting technique have been theoretically analyzed and shown to be directly related to a large internally generated electric field associated with the TiO 2 Seebeck coefficient. Here, it is shown that this field effect can significantly change (1) solute partition coefficients, (2) eutectic or peritectic concentrations and temperatures, (3) solid phase effective diffusion coefficients, (4) the degree of constitutional supercooling, (5) stabilization of a normally metastable phase, etc.
Barrier Function of the Repaired Skin Is Disrupted Following Arrest of Dicer in Keratinocytes

Tissue injury transiently silences miRNA-dependent posttranscriptional gene silencing in its effort to unleash adult tissue repair. Once the wound is closed, miRNA biogenesis is induced averting neoplasia. In this work, we report that Dicer plays an important role in reestablishing the barrier function of the skin post-wounding via a miRNA-dependent mechanism. MicroRNA expression profiling of skin and wound-edge tissue revealed global upregulation of miRNAs following wound closure at day 14 post-wounding with significant induction of Dicer expression. Barrier function of the skin, as measured by trans-epidermal water loss, was compromised in keratinocyte-specific conditional (K14/Lox-Cre) Dicer-ablated mice because of malformed cornified epithelium lacking loricrin expression. Studies on human keratinocytes recognized that loricrin expression was inversely related to the expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21Waf1/Cip1. Compared to healthy epidermis, wound-edge keratinocytes from Dicer-ablated skin epidermis revealed elevated p21Waf1/Cip1 expression. Adenoviral and pharmacological suppression of p21Waf1/Cip1 in keratinocyte-specific conditional Dicer-ablated mice improved wound healing indicating a role of Dicer in the suppression of p21Waf1/Cip1. This work upholds p21Waf1/Cip1 as a druggable target to restore barrier function of skin suffering from loss of Dicer function as would be expected in diabetes and other forms of oxidant insult.
Effect of Adrenaline and Adrenergic Blocking Agents on the Basal Oxygen Consumption of the Perfused Rat Heart

Effect of Adrenaline and Adrenergic Blocking Agents on the Basal Oxygen Consumption of the Perfused Rat Heart
Disentangling the web of allosteric communication in a homotetramer: heterotropic inhibition of phosphofructokinase from Bacillus stearothermophilus.

A strategy for isolating each of the four potentially unique heterotropic pairwise allosteric interactions that exist in the homotetramer phosphofructokinase from Bacillus stearothermophilus is described. The strategy involves the construction of hybrid tetramers containing one wild-type subunit and three mutant subunits that have been modified to block binding of both the substrate, fructose 6-phosphate (Fru-6-P), and the allosteric inhibitor, phospho(enol)pyruvate (PEP). Each type of binding site occurs at a subunit interface, and mutations on either side of the interface have been identified that will greatly diminish binding at the respective site. Consequently, four different types of mutant subunits have been created, each containing a different active site and allosteric site modification. The corresponding 1:3 hybrids isolate a different pair of unmodified substrate and allosteric sites with a unique structural disposition located 22, 30, 32, and 45 A apart, respectively. The allosteric inhibition...
Is it Time to Include Vancomycin for Routine Perioperative Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Total Joint Arthroplasty Patients

In an effort to reduce methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and overall periprosthetic joint infections (PJI), we switched the perioperative prophylactic antibiotic during total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty from cefazolin to vancomycin in June 2008. We retrospectively reviewed the total and MRSA PJI in 5036 primary total joint arthroplasties, as well as the cure rate of PJI from January 2006 to June 2008 (Ancef Period) and June 2008 to December 2010 (Vanco Period). With vancomycin, total PJI was significantly reduced (1.0%-0.5%) and MRSA PJI (0.23%-0.07%). Periprosthetic joint infections that occurred were more successfully treated with irrigation and debridement only, not requiring spacer (76.9% vs 22.2%). The use of vancomycin as the perioperative prophylactic antibiotic for primary total joint arthroplasties appeared to be effective in decreasing the rate of PJI and may result, when they occur, in infections with less virulent organisms.
Collaboration and the Power of Partnership in Science–Engineering Libraries

ABSTRACT With a shared vision of increasing digital access to and preservation of federal government technical reports, a collaborative team of engineering and government document librarians developed the Technical Report Archive & Image Library for complex collaborations that includes both (1) shared management for physical collection and (2) shared management and production for digital conversion processes. The model described in this article supports achieving a shared vision, regardless of the number of participants, geographic location, or member assets and is accomplished through the recognition and use of community collaboration and through social capital and gift-culture principles.
Phytochrome Control of Nyetinasty in Samanea as Modified by Oxgen, Submergence, and Chemicals

Samanea saman has rapid phytochrome-regulated nyctinasty: red light preceding darkness causes pinnules to close while far-rod light allows opening- Not only the initial angle of the pinnules, but the degree of control by phytochrome depends on the “subjective time of day” at which the tissue is exposed. Excised pairs of pinnules close rapidly when submerged in water; such closure is prevented by bubbling oxygen through the water. However, if submergence closure were due solely to low oxygen levels, then nonsubmerged pinnules in a pure nitrogen atmosphere should also close. Instead, they neither close nor respond to light, but they do respond when air is readmitted, indicating that oxygen is necessary for movement rather than for photoreception. The closure of submerged pinnules remains unexplained. Attempts to detect effects of red or far-red on oxygen uptake by pulvinus tissue were unsuccessful. The following method has been used to test the effects of various inhibitors and other substances: pinnules are excised at the first hour of the day, trimmed, submerged in a sealed chamber, given far-red light, and left in darkness while oxygen is bubbled through the medium. Concentrated test solutions are injected either initially or when the red and far-red exposures are given. Thus far, the substances tested have had little or no effect on the phytochrome response.
A caching approach to reduce communication in graph search algorithms

In many scientific and computational domains, graphs are used to represent and analyze data. Such graphs often exhibit the characteristics of small-world networks: few high-degree vertexes connect many low-degree vertexes. Despite the randomness in a graph search, it is possible to capitalize on this characteristic and cache relevant information in high-degree vertexes. We applied this idea by caching remote vertex ids in a parallel breadth-first search implementation, and demonstrated 1.6x to 2.4x speedup over the reference implementation on 64 to 1024 cores. We proposed a system design in which resources are dedicated exclusively to caching, and shared among a set of nodes. Our evaluation demonstrates that this design has the potential to reduce communication and improve performance over large scale systems. Finally, we used a memcached system as the cache server finding that a generic protocol that does not match the usage semantics may hinder the potential performance improvements.
On-Chip, Ultra-Low Threshold Yb Silica Laser

A novel Yb:SiO2 fiber-coupled laser on a silicon chip was fabricated using a solution-gel process. We report a record-low pump threshold of 2 muW, and discuss the practical advantages of Yb micro lasers.
GROWTH OF CABBAGE SEEDLINGS IN SAND CULTURE, AS AFFECTED BY DELAYED APPLICATION OF NUTRIENT SALTS.

When some kinds of seeds are thickly planted, the resulting seedlings are likely to develop excessively elongated hypocotyls and to be otherwise unsuitable for transplanting. It has long been known that excessive elongation of many kinds of stems, including hypocotyls, is generally correlated with inadequate light intensity, as in partial or complete etiolation, when conditions of temperature and water supply are adequate and when inorganic nutrients are available. Without referring particularly to numerous earlier papers on the etiolation of ordinary plants, reference may be made to Popp's (6) observation that stem elongation in early growth stages of soy bean was approximately inversely proportional to the intensity of the light employed. Reference may be made also to the experiments of van Overbeek (5), who found that the rate of hypocotyl elongation and the final length attained by radish hypocotyls were only about half as great when the seedlings were grown under ordinary conditions as when they were grown in darkness. That different kinds of plants should show great differences in respect to this influence of light is only to be expected (MacDougal's classic book on light effects, 4), and the physiological problem thus raised is surely one of great complexity. In connection with the study here reported, the employment of artificial illumination in the greenhouse at night was only slightly effective in retarding and limiting hypocotyl elongation in cucumber seedlings. In this study it has been found that under ordinary greenhouse conditions seedlings of cabbage, cucumber, and tomato generally become " drawn/ ' showing some of the growth symptoms of etiolation, when the seeds are sown too close together, but exhibiting a quite satisfactory degree of stockiness when they are allowed to grow a few centimeters apart. Dense stands of perfectly satisfactory seedlings have been grown in an ordinary greenhouse, however, by employing sand as substrate, to which suitable nutrient salts had been added in suitable concentrations (2). Ammonium nitrate was found to be very satisfactory when initially added at the rate of about 0.5 gm. per liter of sand, the pH value of the solution used being between 5 and 7 ; the sand used contained a trace of available phosphorus. Some other ammonium salts gave similar results, but leaf injury was likely to follow their use unless
The use of lichens in atmospheric deposition studies with an emphasis on the Arctic

Abstract Lichens are well known to accumulate and retain a variety of contaminants and therefore are very useful in documenting relative temporal and spatial deposition patterns of contaminants. As one of the dominant and most widespread groups of arctic plants, they have been used frequently in deposition studies, particularly as related to redionuclides and metals. Many lichens are highly dependent on atmospheric sources of nutrients. It is assumed that deposition and accumulation processes related to contaminants occur in ways analogous to nutrient deposition and accumulation. As receptors of atmospheric deposition, lichens have advantages over vascular plants due to the lichens' relative lack of morphological variability with time, their lack of a cuticle and associated stomates and their lack of roots. Mechanisms by which contaminants are accumulated and tolerated by lichens are briefly reviewed. Data regarding elevated elemental concentrations associated with certain industrial activities in relation to putative background levels are tabulated. The use of enrichment factors and multivariate analyses provide two procedures by which patterns in complex data sets can be discerned where pollution is minimal. Such analyses are presented as a case study from the Northwest Territories of Canada. Finally, arctic lichens may also be useful in documenting deposition patterns of persistent organic contaminants, particularly in relation to the lichen-caribou-human food chain, as was previously documented for radionuclides.
The relationship between activity and the axial g = 2.06 EPR signal induced by CO in the periplasmic (Fe) hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio vulgaris.

Abstract The effect of exposure to carbon monoxide on the activity of the (Fe) hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio vulgaris has been determined. Concentrations of carbon monoxide which completely inhibit hydrogenase activity and induce formation of the axial g =2.06 EPR signal up to 0.8 spin/molecule do not cause irreversible inhibition of the (Fe) hydrogenase.
Liquid crystal Bragg filters

Bragg filters or gratings have the advantages of spectrally selective reflection and high diffraction efficiency, which make them useful for a variety of applications. Liquid crystal Bragg gratings possess an additional interesting and useful feature in that they are switchable or tunable. In switchable filters the reflection notch can be switched on and off, while in a tunable filter it can be scanned through a broad spectral range. We have explored these types of filters for several years and present a review of some of their more intriguing aspects. Two types of filter have been studied: holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystals and cholesteric liquid crystals. We describe the Bragg diffraction of these two types of filter and explore their similarities and differences. Here we will focus on switching and tuning by external stimuli such as electric fields as well as thermal and mechanical mechanisms. We further describe the physics of these devices and point out some new features we have observed as well as open questions concerning their behavior.
Analysis of reversible ejectors and definition of an ejector efficiency

Abstract Second Law analyses of ejector performance have rarely been conducted in literature. Measures of ejector efficiency have not always been clearly defined and the rationale underlying and justifying current performance metrics is often unclear. One common means of assessing performance is to define a thermodynamically reversible reference process against which real processes may be benchmarked. These reversible processes represent the thermodynamic limit of real ejector performance. In this paper, parameters from real and reversible processes are compared and performance metrics are defined. In particular, the entrainment ratio of real devices is compared to the reversible entrainment ratio and denoted the reversible entrainment ratio efficiency. An efficiency comparing the ejector performance to that of a turbine-compressor system is also investigated, as is an exergetic efficiency. A rigorous analysis of performance metrics reported in the literature is undertaken. Graphical illustrations are provided to support intuitive understanding of these metrics. Analytical equations are also formulated for ideal-gas models. The performance metrics are then applied to existing experimental data to illustrate the difference in their numerical values. The reversible entrainment ratio efficiency ηRER is shown to always be lower than the turbine-compressor efficiency ηTER. For general air–air and steam–steam ejectors, the exergetic efficiency ηX is very close in numerical value to the reversible entrainment ratio efficiency ηRER.
Analysis of agroecosystem carbon pools

We present analyses of major driving variable controls on soil C in agroecosystems. Historical changes in soil C storage in agricultural soils are characterized by large losses during transition from natural grasslands and forests. A major driver in more recent times is the steadily increasing rate of net primary production of major land areas in agriculture. Simulation and analytical models are used to predict trajectories and potential soil C storage under possible scenarios of changed management and climate. Database and analytical requirements for extrapolation from regional to global scales are outlined.
Negotiation strategies and the nature of channel relationships

In recent years, retailers have placed greater emphasis on developing long-term relationships to obtain sustainable benefits on issues such as product quality, price, and markdown allowances. The a...
Problems in the Analysis of Urinary Coproporphyrin III

(1952). Problems in the Analysis of Urinary Coproporphyrin III. American Industrial Hygiene Association Quarterly: Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 158-162.
Where Is My Issue? The Influence of News Coverage and Personal Issue Importance on Subsequent Information Selection on the Web

Researchers believe that the Web functions to supplement traditional news media. Little is known, however, about how traditional news media consumption influences Web use patterns. This study investigates how prior TV news exposure influences individuals' subsequent Web use by testing 3 theories that may explain individuals' information selection patterns—accessibility, instrumental utility, and personal issue importance. The results of this study reveal the strong effects of personal issue importance when selecting information on the Web, regardless of news coverage in traditional media. The findings also indicate higher levels of information selection when there is no prior exposure to news coverage.
Thoracic outlet syndromes: Update 1987

It is a great honor to be invited to deliver the 13th Annual Edgar J. Poth Lecture to the Southwestern Surgical Congress. This lecture was originated by the Congress to honor one of its most distinguished members. Doctor Poth was born in Seguin, Texas on February 1,1899. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas, his doctorate in physical chemistry from the University of California with a dissertation in atomic physics, and his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University in 1931. He then served his internship, surgical residency, and faculty appointment at Stanford University Medical Center in San Francisco until 1939 when he was appointed chief of the department of surgery at the University of Arkansas. In 1943, Dr. Poth was named professor of surgery at the University of Texas in Galveston, and became chief of the division of general surgery there in 1962. In 1964, he was named the first Ashbell Smith Professor of Surgery of the University of Texas, and he still holds that title today, emeritus. Dr. Poth has been an active member of the Southwestern Surgical Congress, serving as chairman of the planning committee that established the Sponsored Resident Program, and was elected president of the Congress in 1963. During four decades of active research, he made numerous contributions in the fields of pathophysiology of intestinal obstruction, peptic ulcer disease, and antibiotic bowel preparation. He was principally responsible for introducing succinylsulfathiazole (Sulfasuxidine@) as the original bowel preparation for colon surgery, and he was the first to maintain a dog on extracorporeal circulation in the early 1930s. He was elected governor of the American College of
A method for inserting i-125 seeds into absorbable sutures for permanent implantation in tissue

Abstract A useful and efficient method is described and illustrated in detail for inserting I-125 seeds into absorbable sutures for intra-operative implantation in tumors. This method of suture preparation and our resterilization technique provide convenient and safe procedures for enabling the use of this versatile method of interstitial implantation. These procedures are used routinely at the Stanford University Medical Center.
Forkhead transcription factors in chronic inflammation

Forkhead (Fox) transcription factors have been increasingly recognized to play key roles in immune homeostasis, especially Foxp3 for its role in the development and function of regulatory T cells, and Foxo family members for their regulatory role in T and B lymphocytes as well as other leukocytes. Although these transcription factors positively regulate the expression of multiple target genes, a unique functional attribute of these genes is the maintenance of leukocyte homeostasis, such as the preservation of the naive or quiescent T cell state and prevention of autoimmunity. As a result, many chronic inflammatory processes appear to reflect a relative loss of activity of one of these transcription factors, raising the possibility that therapeutic approaches which confer gain-of-function Fox activity may be beneficial. On the other hand, however, some of the Fox family members also appear to promote and/or maintain chronic inflammation by preserving inflammatory leukocyte survival and/or otherwise promoting the expression of inflammatory target genes, at least in some cell types such as neutrophils. Therefore, although the role of Fox in inflammatory disorders remains complex and incompletely understood, the continued study of these factors provides new insight into the initiation, maintenance, and propagation of inflammation.
A Comparison of Methods for Determining the Wattage Output and Energy Distribution in Microwave Ovens

Two characteristics of microwave ovens that are important to consumers as they select and use microwave ovens are the wattage output (cooking power) and the evenness of distribution of energy within the oven cavity. Several test methods have been proposed to measure each of these characteristics, but there is not agreement in the industry on realistic methods of their measurement. The purpose of this study is to evaluate a variety of methods for determining cooking power and energy distribution. Cooking power was measured using the temperature rise of water loads. The influence of initial load temperature, quantity of water, profile, and location of the load within the cavity (centrally located versus dispersed) was determined. Energy distribution was measured using nonfood loads (a three-dimensional copying paper load and various water loads), a simple food (gelatin), and a complex food (custard). Placement of the load, the profile, and the composition of the load affected the apparent energy distribution. Recommendations for standardized tests resulted from this research.
Regional distinction in age-related changes of preoptic regulatory factor-1 and preoptic regulatory factor-2 mRNA expression in the rat brain.

Abstract Preoptic regulatory factor-1 ( porf-1 ) and preoptic regulatory factor-2 ( porf-2 ) are two novel neuropeptide genes expressed in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. Other studies have shown that these genes may play a role in steroid-dependent brain development and functions. In this study, nuclease protection essays were employed to investigate Porf-1 and Porf-2 mRNA expression in male rat brains of different ages. The preoptic area (POA), cerebral cortex (CC), and hippocampus (HIPP) expressed both Porf-1 and Porf-2 mRNA, while only Porf-2 mRNA was detectable in the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH). Porf-1 mRNA in the POA was highest at the age of 2 months (young adult), decreased at the age of 6 months (mature adult), and remained low at the ages of 12 (middle aged) and 24 months (aged). Porf-1 mRNA in the CC was also the highest at the age of 2 months and decreased with age. However, there were no age-related changes for Porf-1 mRNA in the HIPP. Porf-2 mRNA in the HIPP was found to be low at the age of 2 months, increased at the ages of 6 and 12 months, and decreased at the age of 24 months. The effect of age on Porf-2 mRNA in the POA was similar to that seen for Porf-1, with the highest expression observed in the 2-month-old rats. There were no age-related Porf2 mRNA changes in the MBH and CC. These results indicate differential regulation of expression of the porf-1 and porf-2 genes in the MBH, POA, HIPP, and CC. The possible roles of these two genes in maturation and aging of male rats are discussed.
Interaction of neural systems which control body water.

Abstract The method of electrophysiological unit recording was used to study the interaction of neurons among the following nuclear masses: (1) the nucleus semilunaris accessorius thalami (nSA), which relays gustatory and splanchnic afferents in the thalamus, (2) the nucleus supraopticus hypothalami (nSoH) and the nucleus paraventricularis hypothalami (nPv) which are known to control water retention, and (3) the area lateralis hypothalami (ALH) and the nucleus entopeduncularis (nEp) which are implicated in the control of water intake. Neuronal activity of these nuclei was altered by intracarotid infusions of a 3% NaCl solution or distilled water, or by electrical pulses applied via a concentric stimulating electrode to the nSA or to neurons of the ALH-Ep or the nSoH. It was found (Fig.9) that neurons of the nSoH and nPv function as osmoreceptors (Fig. 9.1, 9.2) whereas those of the ALH-Ep do not. The activity of the latter depends on the interaction of tonic excitatory and inhibitory influences (Fig. 9.3, 9.4) which are relayed to the ALH-Ep neurons via the nSA. Therefore, oropharyngeal stimulation during water intake will gradually alter the activity of the ALH-Ep neurons. This function can serve as a metering device of water consumption. A reverberatory negative feedback circuit (Fig. 9.5, 9.6) provides for interaction between the two hypothalamic control systems suggesting the explanation for many interesting phenomena observed with the regulation of water balance.
Portal-systemic shunts for Budd-Chiari syndrome

Nine patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) were treated by a portal systemic shunt. One had thrombosis of the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) and another had complete obstruction of the retrohepatic inferior vena cava (IVC). All other patients had a marked stenosis of the retrohepatic IVC with caval pressure ranging from 12 to 24 mmHg (mean: 17 mmHg). Seven patients had an interprosition mesocaval shunt using an autologous jugular vein. The patient with a thrombosed SMV had a portoartial shunt. The patient with an obstructed IVC had a cavoatrial shunt after an erroneous portacaval shunt had failed to relieve ascites. There were no operative deaths and no major postoperative complications. One patient died 19 months after operation of acute leukemia complicating polycythemia rubra vera. All other patients were alive and well 8 months to 6 years after operation. None of them had encephalopathy. These results suggest several comments: (1) Portal systemic shunts are a good treatment for BCS and have a low operative risk. (2) the mesocaval shung is an efficient procedure, even when there is stenosis of the IVC with high caval pressure: shunts to the right atrium should be performed only in the case of complete obstruction or inaccessibility of the IVC. (3) The long-term prognosis is excellent, except in patients with potential malignancies. Therfore, portal systemic shunts should be indicated early in patients with symptomatic BCS.
Willingness to Pay for Customization: The Impact of Choice Variety and Specification Assistance

Research in mass customization suggests that consumers are willing to pay more for customization, but limited studies to date have investigated product or process related factors that would affect consumers' willingness to pay for a customized product. In a foodservice context, we empirically tested the impact of choice variety and specification assistance on consumers' willingness to pay for the customized product. The study results indicate that consumers would pay more for the customized product if extensive choice variety was provided for each product component. However, specification assistance was not found to affect consumers' willingness to pay.
Laserspray ionization using an atmospheric solids analysis probe for sample introduction

A newly introduced high sensitivity laserspray (LSI) mass spectrometry (MS) method that uses laser ablation of a matrix/analyte mixture at atmospheric pressure (AP) to obtain multiply charged ions from nonvolatile as well as high-mass compounds is now implemented using a simple probe device. The probe used in the LSI approach was originally designed for sample introduction into an AP ionization source using the atmospheric solids analysis probe (ASAP) method. Multiply charged mass spectra of peptides and proteins in 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid matrix were readily obtained on two mass spectrometers from different manufacturers with sample introduction using melting point tubes. Here we demonstrate rapid analysis by placing four peptide and protein samples on a single melting point tube. Mass spectra were obtained at high-resolution and using ion mobility spectrometry/MS.
Kinetics of Trichloroethene Reduction by Zerovalent Iron and Tin: Pretreatment Effect, Apparent Activation Energy, and Intermediate Products

The degradation of trichloroethene (TCE) at 2 mg L{sup {minus}1} in headspace free aqueous solution by zerovalent iron (Fe{sup 0}) and tin (Sn{sup 0}) was studied in batch tests at 10, 25, 40, and 55 C and HCl-treated Fe{sup 0} and Sn{sup 0} at 25 and 55 C. Surface area normalized pseudo-first-order rate constants (k{sub SA}) ranged from 0.44 {times} 10{sup {minus}3} to 4.3 {times} 10{sup {minus}3} h{sup {minus}1} m{sup {minus}2} L for Fisher Fe{sup 0}, 0.029 {times} 10{sup {minus}3} to 0.27 {times} 10{sup {minus}3} h{sup {minus}1} m{sup {minus}2} L for Peerless and Master Builders Fe{sup 0}, and 0.011 {times} 10{sup {minus}3} to 1.31 {times} 10{sup {minus}3} h{sup {minus}1} m{sup {minus}2} L for Fisher and Aldrich Sn{sup 0}. The Aldrich Fe{sup 0} was the least reactive with k{sub SA} values ranging from 0.0016 {times} 10{sup {minus}3} to 0.011 {times} 10{sup {minus}3}j{sup {minus}1} m{sup {minus}2} L. The HCl-washing increased metal surface area and observed rate constant (k) values but generally decreased k{sub SA} values. The calculated apparent activation energy (E{sub a}) using the Arrhenius law for the four temperature levels ranged from 32.2 to 39.4 mol{sup {minus}1} for the untreated Fe{sup 0} metals and 40.5--76.8 kJ mol{sup {minus}1} for the untreatedmore » Sn{sup 0} metals. Greater temperature effect was observed for Sn{sup 0} than for Fe{sup 0}. Their results indicate that TCE reduction by Fe{sup 0} and Sn{sup 0} is likely controlled primarily by chemical reaction-limited kinetics rather than by mass transport of the TCE to the metal surface. Both reductive {beta}-elimination reaction and hydrogenolysis reaction are likely involved in the reduction of TCE by both Fe{sup 0} and Sn{sup 0}.« less
Certain aspects of the host-parasite relationship of Aspiculuris tetraptera, a mouse pinworm. II. Sex resistance

Abstract 1. 1. The sex of the host has a modifying influence upon the intensity of infection with A. tetraptera . 2. 2. Gonadectomy of the host significantly lowers the worm burden. 3. 3. Estradiol in male mice is detrimental to the establishment of a heavy infection, whereas testosterone seems to have little or no effect on the worm burden in either males or females.
Comparison of the cost of radiofrequency catheter modification of the atrioventricular node and medical therapy for drug-refractory atrioventricular node reentrant tachycardia

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the charges for radiofrequency catheter modification of the atrioventricular (AV) node in 15 patients with symptomatic AV node reentrant tachycardia despite pharmacologic therapy and to compare these charges with the estimated charges for health care utilization by the same patients before the catheter procedure was performed. There were seven men and eight women with a mean age of 50 ±17 years. The mean duration and frequency of symptoms were 16 ± 9 years and 4.5 ± 6 episodes/month, respectively. Fourteen of the 15 patients required only one procedure for diagnosis and cure of AV node reentrant tachycardia and 1 patient required two sessions. All patients underwent electrophysiologic study before discharge from the hospital to confirm the short-term efficacy of the procedure. The mean duration of the hospital stay was 3 ± 1.5 days and the mean total charge/patient expressed in 1991 dollars was $15,893 ± $3,338 for catheter modification. These total charges consisted of hospital charges of $8,105 ± $2,466 and physician charges of $7,788 ± $971. All patients had a successful outcome and required no additional antiarrhythmic therapy. The estimated cost of health care utilization for these 15 patients before cure of AV node reentrant tachycardia was $7,651/patient per year. These estimated costs included charges incurred for emergency room visits, office visits, hospitalizations and antiarrhythmic drug therapy. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that the annual health care costs incurred by patients who have symptomatic, drug-refractory paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia caused by AV node reentry are substantial. Radiofrequency catheter modification of the AV node not only is of clinical benefit, but also results in a dramatic long-term reduction in medical expenses.
The Preparation and Characterization of Cr(III) and Co(III) Complexes of GDP and GTP and Their Interactions with Avian Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinas

Abstract The exchange inert coordination complexes, Cr(H 2 O) 4 GDP, Cr(H 2 O) 4 GTP, Cr(NH 3 ) 4 GDP, Cr(NH 3 ) 4 GTP, Co(NH 3 ) 4 GDP, and Co(NH3) 4 GTP have been synthesized and characterized. The Λ and Δ coordination isomers of Cr(H 2 O) 4 GDP, Cr(NH 3 ) 4 GDP, and the four Cr(H 2 O) 4 GTP isomers have been separated by reverse phase HPLC and characterized by their CD spectra. While the isomers of Co(NH 3 ) 4 GTP have not been successfully separated, 31 P NMR spectroscopy reveals the presence of the Λ and Δ forms. The complexes, Cr(H 2 O) 4 GDP, Co(NH 3 ) 4 GDP, Cr(H 2 O) 4 GTP, and Co(NH 3 ) 4 GTP, are linear competitive inhibitors of avian phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase. The K i values of 30 μM, 540 μM, 40 μM, and 12 μM, respectively, were determined for these complexes using Mn-IDP as the nucleotide substrate in the phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylation direction or Mn-ITP as nucleotide substrate for the oxalacetate decarboxylation reaction. The Λ and Δ isomers of Cr(H 2 O) 4 GDP show little specificity (a twofold maximum difference in K i ) for the enzyme. The isomeric forms of Cr(H 2 O) 4 GTP demonstrate no observed stereoselectivity of interaction with the enzyme. All of the complexes tested, except for Cr(NH 3 ) 4 GDP and Co(NH 3 ) 4 GDP, which have larger K i values, are good substrate analogs for P -enolpyruvate carboxykinase. When the substrate is Mn-GTP, fixed at 0.2 mM at pH 6.0, enzyme activity is stimulated two- to two and a half-fold by Cr(H 2 O) 4 GTP. A Dixon plot reveals that the stimulatory effect is saturated at 0.4 mM Cr(H 2 O) 4 GTP. The interaction of the enzyme with Cr(H 2 O) 4 GTP appears to produce a “memory” effect which is manifest with guanosine nucleotide substrates, but which is not observed with the alternative substrate Mn-ITP.