cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of glucocorticoid treatment on the excitability of rat skeletal muscle.

Dexamethasone treatment in the rat produced depolarization of extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle fibers but not soleus (SOL) fibers studied in vitro at 23 degrees C. The depolarization of EDL fibers was most prominent after 1 day of treatment (treated -77.5 +/- 1.1 mV, control -87.2 +/- 0.8 mV; mean +/- S.E.), and was associated with elevation of the action potential threshold and reduction of the action potential overshoot. In vivo, or in vitro in chloride-free solution, the resting potential and action potential threshold and overshoot of EDL fibers from glucocorticoid-treated and control rats were similar. Sodium currents were studied with a patch voltage clamp. Glucocorticoid treatment did not alter the voltage dependence of sodium channel activation or inactivation in fast twitch muscle fibers. Maximal inward currents occurred at about -29 mV and half-maximal inward currents at about -50 mV. Sodium channels were half inactivated at about -71 mV. Glucocorticoid treatment did not alter the sarcolemmal resistance or capacitance. We conclude that glucocorticoid treatment does not produce muscle weakness or atrophy by altering the excitability of muscle fibers.
Blood volume of swine.

SummaryThe P32 labeled red blood cell method has proven satisfactory for the determination of blood volumes in swine. Values obtained ranged in regular fashion from 7.4 to 4.6 ml/100 g body weight for 10 to 344 lb animals^ respectively.
The effect of stereotypical primes on the neural processing of racially ambiguous faces

Previous research has demonstrated that an early attentional component of the event-related potential (ERP), the P2, is sensitive to the distinction between the processing of racial outgroup and ingroup faces but may not be sensitive to the distinction between racially ambiguous and ingroup faces. Recent behavioral work, however, has suggested that contextual information may affect the processing of racially ambiguous faces. Thus, the first goal of this study was to examine whether the early neural processing of racially ambiguous faces would be affected by primed stereotypes. White college student participants (n = 29) completed a task in which they racially categorized monoracial Black and White faces and racially ambiguous Black–White morphs. These faces were preceded by positive and negative Black and White stereotypical primes. Results indicated that P2 amplitude to the racially ambiguous faces was moderated by the valence of the primes such that negative primes led to greater neural processing of th...
Tooth crown size differences between age groups: A possible new indicator of stress in skeletal samples

Juveniles and adults from a prehistoric Amerindian skeletal series from Tennessee are compared for differences in the means and variances of the buccolingual dimensions of their permanent teeth. While there are no significant differences in variance, it is found that juveniles exhibit significantly smaller mandibular canines, first premolars, and first molars. The results are similar to those of a previous examination of an Amerindian skeletal collection from South Dakota. There is evidence to suggest that teeth may fail to develop to their maximum genetic size potential when there is interference from exogenous chronic stressors such as malnutrition or disease. Archaeological and biological evidence demonstrates that both the Tennessee and South Dakota series represent groups that suffered considerably from environmental stressors. It is suggested that those persons who suffered most were more likely to die prematurely, thus explaining why juvenile skeletons tend to have smaller teeth. The conclusion is that the examination of age variation in crown size can be a useful supplement to other osteological indicators of stress in skeletal collections. The factor of sex ratio and the implications of the results for other kinds of dental metric studies are discussed.
Learning through action: Parallel learning processes in children and adults

Abstract Experiential learning has become an essential part of many educational settings from infancy through adulthood. While the effectiveness of active learning has been evaluated in youth and adult settings, few known studies have compared the learning processes of children and adults within the same project. This article contrasts the active learning processes of children and adults by chronicling a service learning project in the United States in which 19 university students implemented an anti-bias curriculum with 112 young children. Findings are interpreted in relation to David Kolb's model of experiential learning. Implications for classroom practice and theory are discussed.
Formation and electrochemistry of polyaniline in ambient-temperature molten salts

Abstract Polyaniline (PAn) can be prepared on platinum and glassy carbon electrodes by anodic oxidation of the monomer in ambient-temperature molten salts, consisting of mixtures of aluminum chloride and 1-methyl-3-ethyl-imidazolium chloride. The formation and electrochemistry of PAn vary as the melt's composition is changed from 0.8:1 (basic) to 2:1 (acidic). The oxidation mechanism of aniline in melts differs from that in acidic aqueous solution and protons are not involved in the polymerization process. The peak potentials of PAn films in aniline-free melts shift to more positive potentials with increasing melt acidity. Transfer of PAn films between different melts and aqueous solution are reversible. Comparison of PAn cyclic voltammograms in aqueous solution with that in the melt suggests that crosslinking and multiple substitution of the benzene ring probably take place during the propagation process and deterioration in aniline-free melts.
The effect of platinum binding on the structure of DNA and its function in RNA synthesis

Summary Circular dichroism titration and continuous variation studies indicate that cis[Pt(NH 3 ) 2 Cl 2 ] forms two complexes with DNA, with 0.1: 1 and 1: 1 Pt/DNA(P) ratios. Trans [Pt(NH 3 ) 2 Cl 2 ] forms only a 1: 2 Pt/DNA(P) complex. The high ellipticity exhibited by the « low-platinumcomplexes is characteristic of the binding of cis Pt, not trans , to native, and not denatured DNA, and involves G-C base pairs, as indicated, for example, by its formation with poly dG.poly dC, but not poly dA.poly dT. Melting curves of 1: 1 trans -Pt-DNA solutions show that the fraction of hypochromicity of uncomplexed DNA that is lost at room temperature by binding to trans Pt is also the fraction of A-T base pairs in the DNA, and the remaining hypochromicity then lost on heating correlates with the G-C content of the DNA. These results indicate Pt crosslinks between G-C bases and denaturation in the A-T rich DNA segments. Cis -Pt-DNA melting is very complex and indicates several different binding modes. RNA polymerase is severely inhibited by the binding of both cis and trans [Pt(NH 3 ) 2 Cl 2 ] to DNA, and the cis isomer inhibits much more strongly. The reaction of either Pt complex with the enzyme has no effect whatever on transcription. The chain length of the RNA produced through the RNA polymerase reaction decreases as the amount of Pt available for DNA binding increases. This effect can be explained by platinum atoms on the DNA template acting to stop chain elongation.
Performance Assessment for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant: From Regulation to Calculation for 40 CFR 191.13

The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant WIPP is being developed by the U.S. Department of Energy as a disposal facility for transuranic waste and must comply with several environmental regulations, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's standard for geologic disposal of radioactive waste 40 CFR 191. Procedures used in recent performance assessments for the WIPP to translate regulations into a structure that facilitates quantitative analysis are described. Topics considered include 1 development of a clear conceptual representation for problems that are initially ill-defined, 2 conversion of qualitative guidance into numerical calculations. 3 explicit incorporation of different types of uncertainty i.e., aleatory and epistemic into analysis outcomes, 4 requirements for efficient computation and models at different levels of complexity, 5 use of sensitivity analysis to guide additional data collection and future calculations, 6 requirements for results to be presented and explained to audiences with different interests and levels of sophistication, and 7 ambiguity with respect to final uses of the analysis and its outcomes. The need to address similar concepts and problems arises in many analyses.
Depolarization Analyzed by Matrix Logarithms

An order-independent decomposition of Mueller matrices based on matrix roots and matrix logarithms provides nine depolarization parameters, three closely associated with retardance, three related to diattenuation, and three more related to the matrix diagonal.
Electronically Scanned Analog Liquid Crystal Displays

A new analog display technique for liquid crystal display panels is demonstrated. The size, shape, and location of display patterns can be changed continuously using low power electronic control. The display consists of a thin liquid crystal layer sandwiched between high resistance transparent area electrodes. Transverse voltage gradients on the electrodes actuate the device. The display operates with either dynamic scattering liquids or quiescent scattering liquids. Experimental results are given for three prototype analog displays: a voltmeter, a flying spot scanner, and a null indicator.
The information content of accounting earnings, book values, losses and firm size vis-à-vis stocks: empirical evidence from an emerging stock market

The Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) has consistently outperformed better known emerging markets like Brazil, India and China over the past decade. However, some economists, notably Khwja and Mian (2005), claim that trade-based manipulation as opposed to firm fundamentals is the real cause behind this remarkable growth. To uncover the relationship between stock prices and firm fundamentals, we measure the degree of association between firm-specific accounting information embedded in annual financial statements and stock prices, commonly known as the value relevance of financial statements. Based on a data-set of 100 firms listed on the KSE from 1999 to 2011, we find that accounting information is an important determinant of stock returns. In addition, consistent with prior research, we also find that the explanatory power of accounting information shifts from earnings to book values in case of negative earnings and firm size is inversely related to stock returns. However, time-series regressions reveal a grad...
α1 connexin (connexin43) gap junctions and activities of cAMP‐dependent protein kinase and protein kinase C in developing mouse heart

α1 connexin (connexin43) is the dominant gap junction protein of the developing and mature heart where it forms channels that mediate intercellular electrical and metabolic coupling events that are critical for heart function. α1 connexin channels are rapidly and reversibly gated by actions of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) and protein kinase C (PKC), and disruption of consensus sites for these phosphorylations are associated with severe heart malformations. However, there have been no reports on the relative activities of PKA or PKC in early heart formation. Nor has the presence and phosphorylation state of α1 connexin been documented in these same developmental stages. To begin these studies, we used hearts from 8.5–18.5 dpc (days postcoitus) mouse embryos, postpartum pups, and adults. Membrane or supernatant fractions were used for immunoblots to assess the amounts and distribution of α1 connexin protein and each protein kinase. Phosphotransferase assays were done to document the endogenous activities of PKA and PKC. Three species of α1 connexin at 44, 46, and 49 kDa were evident in 8.5- and 9.5-dpc embryos and adult hearts, but the 49-kDa band was not consistently found in 10.5 dpc or embryos through 18.5 dpc, although it was robust in adult heart. The amount of PKA was minimal in 8.5-dpc hearts but rose thereafter and was maximal by 10.5 dpc and remained stable throughout development. Catalytic activity of this enzyme was minimal in 8.5-dpc hearts then rose thereafter and was maximal by 10.5 dpc of development. PKCδ was confined mainly to membrane fractions, whereas PKCϵ had supernatant- and membrane-associated forms. Both enzyme isoforms showed large fluctuations throughout development. In 8.5- and 9.5-dpc hearts, PKC catalytic activity was maximal but, by 10.5 dpc, activity dramatically declined and remained low thereafter. The results demonstrate that α1 connexin is present at the heart tube stage (8.5 dpc) of development onward and provide evidence suggesting that channels formed by this protein are dynamically regulated by PKA and PKC, especially in 8.5- and 9.5-day embryonic hearts, which are crucial times for heart formation and left/right patterning in general. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The function of uncertainty reduction in alleviating primary tension in small groups

Two studies manipulated levels of uncertainty and employed self report, observer‐ratings, and behavioral coding to assess primary tension in groups. Results indicate that a) participants cannot differentiate levels of primary tension in groups, b) observers can reliably detect differences in primary tension behaviors, and c) these tense group behaviors decrease as uncertainty is effectively reduced.
Employee opportunism and redundancy in firms

Abstract Firms who share specialized information or client connections with their employees expose themselves to the risk of opportunism, in which their workers leave the firm and go into business for themselves. Legal and contractual solutions to the problem of employee opportunism are not always viable. Instead, firms may organize themselves so as to discourage opportunism. We study an organizational scheme called internal redundancy: the practice of assigning employees to overlapping tasks so that they are less likely to possess sole access to trade secrets or customers, and therefore, less likely to profit if they leave the firm.
Hormone Therapy in Adults: Suggested Revisions to the Sixth Version of the Standards of Care

Often viewed as the definitive professional document on transgender care, the current Standards of Care for Gender Identity Disorders—Sixth Version provides a general overview of the risks and effects of adult hormone therapy, but at present offers limited guidance for the medical provider as to how best to execute this critical intervention. Newer versions need to present a comprehensive approach to transgender hormone therapy, including preventive health care, by incorporating the following key elements: the prescribing physician's responsibilities, clinical situations for hormone therapy, effects and risks of hormone therapy, assessment for initiating hormone therapy, monitoring hormone therapy, and suggested hormone regimens.
Antitumor agent PX-12 inhibits HIF-1α protein levels through an Nrf2/PMF-1-mediated increase in spermidine/spermine acetyl transferase

Thioredoxin-1 (Trx-1) redox signaling regulates multiple aspects of cell growth and survival, and elevated tumor levels of Trx-1 have been associated with decreased patient survival. PX-12, an inhibitor of Trx-1 currently in clinical development, has been found to decrease tumor levels of the HIF-1α transcription factor. SSAT1 has been reported to bind to HIF-1α and RACK1, resulting in oxygen-independent HIF-1 ubiquitination and degradation. SSAT2, a related protein, stabilizes the interaction of the VHL protein and elongin C with HIF-1 leading to oxygen-dependent HIF-1α ubiquitination and degradation. We investigated the effects of PX-12 and Trx-1 on SSAT1, SSAT2, and inhibition of HIF-1α. A panel of cell lines was treated with PX-12 to investigate its effects on SSAT1 and SSAT2 expression, and on HIF-1α protein levels. We also evaluated the regulation of SSAT1 through the Nrf2 and PMF-1, two trans-acting transcription factors. We found that PX-12 increased nuclear Nrf2 activity and antioxidant response element binding. PX-12 also increased the expression of SSAT1 but not SSAT2 in a PMF-1-dependent manner that was independent of Trx-1. Inhibition of Nrf2 or PMF-1 prevented the increase in SSAT1 caused by PX-12. The results show that PX-12, acting independently of Trx-1, increases nuclear Nrf2, which interacts with PMF-1 to increase the expression of SSAT1. The degradation of HIF-1α that results from binding with SSAT1 may explain the decrease in HIF-1α caused by PX-12 and could contribute to the antitumor activity of PX-12.
Are We Losing Out With Digitization

Digital technologies are enmeshing us. Their pervasiveness in our processes, interactions, and social connections have reached a point where both people and businesses must deploy and use these tec...
A study of the behavior of the read: write ratio under two-phase locking schemes

Abstract A number of synchronization techniques have been proposed for managing the concurrent execution of transactions. The performance study of these mechanisms has been done mainly with update transactions but the behavior of read-only transactions and the effect of read: write ratio have not been looked at in depth. Since the effect of read-only transactions and read: write ratios seems significant we have employed detailed and realistic simulation models of two two-phase locking schemes to study the behavior of read-only transactions and the effect of read: write ratios on several aspects of database systems. We report that the effect of read: write ratio is not as global as usually expected. We show that it is not the write-only transactions but the read-only transactions that require special treatment for achieving improved throughput.
Divergence-Free HDG Methods for the Vorticity-Velocity Formulation of the Stokes Problem

We study a hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin method for solving the vorticity-velocity formulation of the Stokes equations in three-space dimensions. We show how to hybridize the method to avoid the construction of the divergence-free approximate velocity spaces, recover an approximation for the pressure and implement the method efficiently. We prove that, when all the unknowns use polynomials of degree k?0, the L 2 norm of the errors in the approximate vorticity and pressure converge with order k+1/2 and the error in the approximate velocity converges with order k+1. We achieve this by letting the normal stabilization function go to infinity in the error estimates previously obtained for a hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin method.
Thermal decomposition of energetic materials 50. Kinetics and mechanism of nitrate ester polymers at high heating rates by SMATCH/FTIR spectroscopy

Abstract Kinetics and mechanism studies of the fast thermal decomposition of 9.45%, 11.7%, and 13.4% N nitrocellulose, poly(vinyl nitrate), poly(glycidyl nitrate) and poly(nitratomethylmethyloxetane) are described by the SMATCH/FTIR technique. Kinetic constants were calculated from the weight loss and temperature traces of thin films heated in the 100°–150°C/s range. The power rate law dα dt = A(1 − α) n exp (− E a RT ) was solved nonisothermally and linearized with n = 2. E a values of 31–34 kcal/mol and log A values of 14.7–16.9 s −1 were obtained. The similarity of the values among the compounds suggests that the same processes control the weight loss in all these compounds. The kinetic constants from SMATCH/FTIR predict the burn rate of the sample when the pressure and temperature conditions are the same. The relatively stable gas products that are detected during the reaction interval indicate that an extensive amount of the decomposition chemistry occurs in the condensed phase. The decomposition reactions at the beginning of the weight loss are similar to those near the end based on the constancy of the relative concentrations.
When the going gets tough, the cingulate gets going.

Despite extensive study, the exact role of human anterior cingulate cortex in forming behavioral strategies is still controversial. In this issue, Williams and colleagues describe a rare opportunity to test a hypothesis about the function of this brain area in humans, by not only recording from single neurons, but also monitoring behavior immediately after surgical ablation of the area.
Cervical ripening with intravaginal prostaglandin E2 gel

Fifty-four patients were randomized in a double blind fashion into either a placebo group or a group treated with a 3 mg dose of an intravaginal prostaglandin E2 gel. The group receiving the prostaglandin E2 gel had a mean change in cervical score of 2.7 while the patients in the placebo group had no significant change. Even though a significantly higher number of patients in the prostaglandin group went into spontaneous labor, the incidence of cesarean section was not different between the two groups. Upon comparing the conflicting reports of various studies on the subject, it is concluded that the method of product preparation, particularly the source of prostaglandin E2 utilized and the choice of drug vehicle, may be important variables in determining treatment success, as measured in terms of decreased cesarean section rate.
Synthesis and SAR of piperazine amides as novel c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitors

A novel series of c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitors were designed and developed from a high-throughput-screening hit. Through the optimization of the piperazine amide 1, several potent compounds were discovered. The X-ray crystal structure of 4g showed a unique binding mode different from other well known JNK3 inhibitors.
Nonnegative minors of minor matrices

Abstract Using the relationship between totally nonnegative matrices and directed acyclic weighted planar networks, we show that 2 × 2 minors of minor matrices of totally nonnegative matrices are also nonnegative. We give a combinatorial interpretation for the minors of minor matrices in terms of the weights of families of paths in a network.
N1-(5'-Phosphoribosyl)adenosine-5'-monophosphate cyclohydrolase: purification and characterization of a unique metalloenzyme

N1-(5‘-Phosphoribosyl)adenosine−5‘-monophosphate cyclohydrolase (HisI, PR-AMP cyclohydrolase) is a central enzyme in histidine biosynthesis catalyzing the hydrolysis of the N1−C6 bond of the purine substrate, a reaction unique to this pathway. A source of the recombinant monofunctional Methanococcus vannielii PR-AMP cyclohydrolase has been developed, and the first characterization of a purified form of the enzyme is reported. The enzyme has a native molecular weight of 31 200 as determined by analytical ultracentrifugation that agrees with the molecular mass determined by gel filtration (34 kDa) and a subunit molecular weight of 15 486 based on MALDI-MS. An unusual characteristic of the protein is the complexity observed on SDS−PAGE, and N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis of all the isolated constituents confirms their origin as PR-AMP cyclohydrolase. A highly conserved region of the amino acid sequence is implicated in the self-cleavage events of the protein and provides an explanation for the compl...
Halodule wrightii aschers. in the sea of Cortez, Mexico

Abstract Halodule wrightii Aschers. is reported for the first time on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. The population at Punta Chueca, Sonora, is 3200 km northwest of the nearest previously reported Halodule population on the Pacific Coast of Central America. The plants occur sympatrically with Zostera marina L. near its southernmost distribution. This disjunct occurrence of H. wrightii supports the hypothesis that diversification of the genus Halodule took place before the closing of the Panama Isthmus.
Thermal-initiated hydroxyethyl methacrylate functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes

Multiwalled-carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were functionalized via thermoinitiated free radical polymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) using benzoyl peroxide. Tip sonication was used during the polymerization reaction to separate agglomerated nanotubes. The functionalization was confirmed by control experiments and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Differential scanning calorimetry indicated that the addition of poly(HEMA)-MWCNTs to a two-component polyurethane coating will have little effect on the glass transition temperature of the coating. The poly(HEMA)-functionalized MWCNTs formed large colloidal structures of highly dispersed nanotubes in both the nonsheared and sheared coatings as determined by atomic force microscopy. This study determined a quick and easy method to functionalize MWCNTs for incorporation into a two-component polyurethane coating. A simple method for producing ordered structures of the MWCNTs via shear observed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Does Chronic Microaspiration Cause Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a diffuse fibrotic lung disease of unknown etiology with no effective treatment. Emerging data support a role for chronic microaspiration (ie, subclinical aspiration of small droplets) in the pathogenesis and natural history of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, the precise relationship between chronic microaspiration and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis remains unknown. Gastroesophageal reflux, a presumed risk factor for microaspiration, has been strongly associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis with an estimated prevalence of up to 90%. This review aims to describe the relationship between chronic microaspiration and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by laying out the clinical and biologic rationale for this relationship and exploring the scientific evidence available. The gaps in our current understanding of the diagnosis of chronic microaspiration and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and the ongoing uncertainties in management and treatment will be highlighted. Defining the role of chronic microaspiration in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is essential as it has potential clinical, pathobiological, and treatment implications for this deadly disease.
Interest, Arousal, and Shifting Diagnoses of Female Sexual Dysfunction, or: How Women Learn About Desire

The newly released Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013) brings together “interest” and “arousal” and removes “desire” from the language of the most commonly diagnosed female sexual dysfunction. I examine the shift from Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women (HSDD) to the new diagnosis, Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (SI/AD). Whereas “complex,” “flexible,” “responsive,” and “receptive” have long been popularly associated with femininity, these descriptors are now framed as essential features of female sexuality via neuroscientific and photoplethysmographic research and as in need of training. Lack of responsiveness to a partner's advances is included as a criterion for diagnosis of sexual dysfunction in women, and thus the move from HSDD to SI/AD evidences the eradication of desire as a constitutive component of female sexuality. These diagnostic and therapeutic shifts influence how women relate to their sexual bodies and those o...
Enzyme stabilization by covalent binding in nanoporous sol-gel glass for nonaqueous biocatalysis.

A unique nanoporous sol-gel glass possessing a highly ordered porous structure (with a pore size of 153 A in diameter) was examined for use as a support material for enzyme immobilization. A model enzyme, α-chymotrypsin, was efficiently bound onto the glass via a bifunctional ligand, trimethoxysilylpropanal, with an active enzyme loading of 0.54 wt%. The glass-bound chymotrypsin exhibited greatly enhanced stability both in aqueous solution and organic solvents. The half-life of the glass-bound α-chymotrypsin was >1000-fold higher than that of the native enzyme, as measured either in aqueous buffer or anhydrous methanol. The enhanced stability in methanol, which excludes the possibility of enzyme autolysis, particularly reflected that the covalent binding provides effective protection against enzyme inactivation caused by structural denaturation. In addition, the activity of the immobilized α-chymotrypsin was also much higher than that of the native enzyme in various organic solvents. From these results, it appears that the glass–enzyme complex developed in the present work can be used as a high-performance biocatalyst for various chemical processing applications, particularly in organic media. Published by John Wiley & Sons Biotechnol Bioeng 74: 249–255, 2001.
Phase synchronization for distributed sensor networks in feedback bit errors

It has been reported recently that phase synchronization in distributed sensor networks can be achieved by adjusting the phase in sensors randomly with a single bit feedback from the receiver (base station) to the sensors. It has been shown that such algorithm leads asymptotic phase coherence with probability one for a broad class of distributions for the random phase adjustments. However, the effects of errors in the feedback bit and phase noise/uncertainty at the sensors were not explored in the algorithm. In this paper, we design a synchronization algorithm with the presence of communication errors in the feedback bit and phase noise at the sensors. Each sensor adaptively adjusts the phase by random phase perturbations by two stages. The first stage, the phase is adjusted according the best received signal strength available; and in the second stage, the adjusting is based on the previous received signal. By alternating between these two stages, the convergence is guaranteed and robust to the feedback bit errors. The convergence time is roughly linear in the number of sensors. Simulations have shown that the proposed algorithm provides satisfactory performance with the feedback bit errors and phase noise at the sensors.
Consumer shopping value for retail brands

Purpose – To examine whether consumers value the in‐store experience that retailers provide as part of the store as brand concept.Design/methodology/approach – A sample of young adult consumers (N=188) was surveyed using a self‐administered questionnaire. Statistical techniques (MANOVA, post hoc tests) were used to evaluate the data.Findings – Statistical models indicate that consumers expect both hedonic and utilitarian value to be present when shopping in the store as brand context.Research limitations/implications – The findings are useful because they confirm significant differences in consumer perceptions of hedonic shopping value across several retail brands. Therefore, customers appear to recognize the uniqueness among the in‐store experience that retailers are working hard to achieve. This delivery of value, then, seems to be an effective source of differentiation.Practical implications – The results of this study indicate that retailers using a “store as the brand” strategy should continue to inv...
The Impact of Prior Performance on Strategic Choice: An Emotion-Based Argument

This paper explores the impact of the prior performance of a firm on the distance of its strategic search and choices. Specifically, it focuses on the emotional impact of prior performance and how it influences the strategic decision making process. It identifies a few robust mechanisms from cognitive psychology, cognitive neuroscience and behavioral economics relating to the impact of emotions on cognitive functioning, and then integrates and applies them to the question of how prior performance impacts the distance of strategic search and choice. Through this, two hypotheses are generated that are different from some of the received wisdom on the question. Larger increases in prior performance are predicted to lead to more distant search and choices (and vice versa for decreases) while higher levels of volatility in the prior performance are predicted to lead to less distant (i.e. local) search and choices (and vice versa). The hypotheses are tested empirically in a very specific strategic context, name...
Effect of clomiphene on testicular protein synthesis in vitro

Abstract Various concentrations of clomiphene citrate were incubated with rat testis tissue in order to study protein biosynthesis. The drug was found to inhibit the incorporation of labeled lysine into testicular proteins. The ed 50 in vitro was 2 × 10 −5 M. When this median effective dose was incubated with slices of rat liver, kidney and spleen, no significant effect on protein labeling was found. Both the cis - and trans isomers of the drug are equipotent in inhibiting testicular protein labeling in vitro . It was concluded that these results may offer a partial explanation for the antispermatogenic effect of the drug observed in vivo .
Endovascular repair of bleeding aortoenteric fistulas: a 5-year experience.

Abstract Purpose: Aortoenteric fistula (AEF) is an uncommon but catastrophic complication that can occur either primarily or after aortic reconstruction. Untreated, it is uniformly fatal. Conventional surgical management is associated with a perioperative mortality rate of 25% to 90% and frequent major complications. We reviewed our experience with the endovascular treatment of both primary and secondary AEFs in an effort to determine whether endovascular repair is a less morbid alternative to traditional surgical treatment in select patients. Methods: In a 5-year period, seven high-risk patients who had bleeding and an AEF documented by means of radiology or endoscopy (2 primary, 5 secondary) were treated with coil embolization (1) or placement of an endovascular aortic stent graft (3 aortouniiliac, 2 tube, 1 bifurcated). One patient underwent computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous catheter drainage of an infected perigraft collection. The average follow-up period was 27 months (range, 11-66 months), and follow-up consisted of physical examination, complete blood count, and contrast-enhanced helical CT scanning at 3, 6, and 12 months and yearly thereafter. All patients were treated with intravenous antibiotics perioperatively and were prescribed life-long oral antibiotics on discharge. Results: There was one perioperative death (14%) caused by fungal sepsis. Persistent sepsis after stent-graft placement necessitated laparotomy and bowel resection in one patient. One patient had three bouts of recurrent sepsis that were successfully treated with a change of antibiotic. There were three late deaths (43%) unrelated to the procedure or AEF. Three patients (43%) were alive and well an average of 36 months (range, 23-67 months) after the procedure, with no clinical or radiologic evidence of recurrent bleeding or infection. Conclusion: Endovascular management of AEFs is technically feasible and may be the preferred treatment in select patients with bleeding and no signs of sepsis. In the setting of gross infection, it may also be considered in high-risk patients as a bridge to more definitive treatment after hemodynamic stabilization and optimization. (J Vasc Surg 2001;34:1055-9.)
Expert systems and industrial engineers: a practical guide to a successful partnership

Abstract Recent developments in the engineering technology of artificial intelligence and expert systems have generated much excitement both in the business and research environments. There are many opportunities in terms of theoretical research and practical applications. The versatility of the industrial engineering profession seems to be particularly agreeable with the vast potentials of expert systems. A guideline is presented on how industrial engineers can successfully take the lead in beneficial implementations of the emerging technology of expert systems. Suggestions are offered on problem selection, getting started, and expert systems project organization.
Laboratory intercomparison of marine particulate digestions including Piranha: a novel chemical method for dissolution of polyethersulfone filters

The US GEOTRACES program will generate marine particulate trace metal data over spatial scales and depth resolutions never before sampled. In preparation for these analyses, we conducted a four laboratory intercomparison exercise to determine our degree of intercalibration and to examine how several total digestion procedures perform on marine particles collected on polyethersulfone (PES, Pall Supor) filters. In addition, we present a new chemical method for complete dissolution of PES filters using a combination of sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide called Piranha reagent that can be conducted using minimal specialized equipment. Intralaboratory subsampling variability across 142 mm particulate matter filters, for subsamples representing approximately 10 L filtered seawater, was measured at an element-dependent 1% to 9% (RSD: 1δ/x-, %), whereas interlaboratory variability accounted for an additional 5% to 42% variability. Lab- and element-specific trends in recoveries are discussed, though all digestion methods tested appear to completely solubilize particulate material. We recommend rigorous determination of digest-acid and/or filter process blanks, as some particulate elements (namely Pb and Zn) have natural abundances that approach blank values.
Differential expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) protein in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells chronically exposed to TCDD

Estrogens play a key role in the development and evolution of breast cancer tumors. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) mediates many of the biological activities of estrogens, and its expression is associated with low invasiveness and good prognosis. Recent epidemiological reports suggest that long-term exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is implicated in the increased incidence of breast cancer in exposed women. TCDD interferes with the expression of some ERalpha-dependent genes and inhibits estradiol (E2)- dependent growth of breast cancer cells in vitro. However, E2-dependent xenographs of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells resumed growth after a 2-week exposure to TCDD. The mechanisms involved in the resumption of cell growth are not completely understood. In this study, we show that short term-exposure (16 days) to 1 nM TCDD results in the suppression of ERalpha protein expression, while chronic exposure for more than 1 year (LTDX cells) results in the partial re-expression of the receptor. Immunocytochemistry studies showed that re-expression of ERalpha in LTDX cells occurred in some of the cells. Analysis by Western immunoblots indicated that four out of five LTDX clones expressed ERalpha at levels comparable to those in unexposed MCF-7 cells. Removal of TCDD treatment for 16 days restored the expression of ERalpha in the ERalpha-negative clonal cells. These results suggest that MCF-7 cells chronically exposed to TCDD contain at least two cell subpopulations that may respond differently to the ERalpha-mediated effects of TCDD.
Oxygen consumption of midwater fishes and crustaceans from the eastern Gulf of Mexico

Oxygen consumption was measured as a function of temperature, oxygen partial-pressure (PO2)and species depth of occurrence for twenty-three species of midwater fishes and crustaceans collected from the eastern Gulf of Mexico from June 1981 to July 1985. Q10s (7° to 20°C) of 3.90 and 3.24 were recorded for myctophid and non-myctophid fish groups, respectively, while values of 2.22, 2.19, 2.19 and 2.54 were calculated for sergestid, penaeid, carid and euphausiid crustacean groups, respectively. Q10s were consistent for species within each group. All of the species tested regulated their oxygen consumption to PO2levels normally encountered within the eastern Gulf. Values of critical partial pressure (Pc) ranged from 20 to 40mm Hg and increased slightly with increasing temperature and respiration rate. Declining respiration with increasing minimum depth of occurrence was primarily a function of temperature alone. Changes in size, dry weight and water content contributed only a small fraction to the observed decrease. This finding contrasts with studies from the eastern Pacific Ocean, where temperature is a minor contributor to changes in respiration rate with depth.
Strategic Risk for Enterprises in Highly Unpredictable Environments: An Experimental Random Selection Model

ABSTRACT The fundamental assumption of profit maximization in traditional economics has been widely doubted since 1941. Many scholars have argued that profit optimization is only a motivation that cannot be applied in the process analysis that involves uncertainty and/or dynamic factors. In this article, we use an experimental model to simulate random selection evolutionary processes for business entities in an uncertainty environment. This experimental model can not only help researchers intuitively observe the survival process in uncertainty environment, but also explain the relationship between survival rate and strategic risk. Moreover, this article points out some defects made by empirical observation. The purpose of this research is not to provide a risk assessment tool, but to figure out the essence of strategic risk in evolutionary selection processes.
T cell-mediated elimination of B7.2 transgenic B cells

Abstract Transgenic mice were generated to explore the effects on lymphoid development and immune function of constitutive expression of murine B7.2 on B and T cells. The number of B lymphocytes in primary and secondary lymphoid tissues is normal in B7.2 transgenic lines expressing low levels of B7.2 on B cells, but markedly reduced in transgenic lines expressing moderate to high levels of the transgene on B cells. This reduction is not due to an intrinsic abnormality of the transgenic B cells, but is rather the consequence of an elimination by an immune mechanism requiring the engagement of CD28 on T cells. Interestingly, during cognate antigen-specific interaction with T cells in vivo, B7.2 transgenic B cells are not eliminated, but proliferate and differentiate normally. Our findings suggest that, in the absence of high affinity ligand for the TCR, the CD28–B7.2 system participates in the regulation of B cell homeostasis.
Review of research on structureborne noise

Publications on the topic of structureborne noise are reviewed. Recent accomplishments, including representative results, are presented for aircraft, rotorcraft, space structures, automotive vehicles, ship and building technology. Special attention is given to propeller-driven aircraft. This review demonstrates that substantial progress has been made in understanding the characteristics of structureborne noise. Possible future research efforts and development of technology for control of structureborne noise are discussed.
Response of Salix nigra [Marsh.] cuttings to horizontal asymmetry in soil saturation

Abstract The objective of this research was to determine if localized morphological and physiological responses of Salix nigra [Marsh.] would reflect heterogeneous soil conditions, and if these changes would alter functioning at the whole-plant level. This experiment utilized split-root rhizotrons with two separate chambers, allowing for half of the root system of each plant to be flooded while the other half was allowed to drain. Plants from these heterogeneous treatments (F/D) were compared to plants in which the entire root system was flooded (F/F) or drained (D/D). Data on soil Eh, leaf area, and photosynthesis were recorded weekly. In situ root analysis compared pre- and post-treatment visible root surface area, root length, tortuosity ( τ ), fractal dimension ( D F ), and fractal lacunarity ( Λ ). Soil in the chambers of the F/F became anoxic by day seven, and remained so for the remainder of the study. Chambers of the D/D treatment and the F/D treatment remained oxic, regardless of whether or not the individual chamber was flooded, indicating that partial root system aeration may enhance amelioration of anoxic or reducing conditions. For the measures related to photosynthetic activity, only net photosynthesis demonstrated an overall treatment effect. Generally, root length and D F increased in response to flooding treatments, whereas Λ decreased. τ demonstrated an interactive effect wherein changes in roots within an individual chamber depended upon the flooding condition of the neighboring chamber. D F was found to be highly sensitive to flooding, even if the flooding did not result in measurable soil reduction. Overall these results indicate that S. nigra may demonstrate unique morphological responses to heterogeneity in soil saturation, but localized amelioration of anoxia, rather than reallocation predominates under mildly reducing conditions.
The genetic toxicity database of the National Toxicology Program: evaluation of the relationships between genetic toxicity and carcinogenicity.

The database of the U.S. National Toxicology Program has been developed over approximately two decades, principally focused on substances evaluated for carcinogenicity in rodent bioassays. These assays generally provide data on the relative toxicity and carcinogenicity of chemicals based upon discrete subchronic (13 week) and chronic (104 week) exposures. A major value of these data are that the assay protocols, rodent strains, and technical methodologies have been generally consistent, thus permitting comparisons between assays and chemicals. The genotoxicity data for many of the same chemicals have been developed also using standardized biological systems and protocols. Data for assays including mutagenicity in Salmonella and mouse lymphoma cells, chromosomal aberrations, and sister chromatid exchange in Chinese hamster ovary cells, transformation of Balb/c 33 cells, and in vvo ytogenetic effects in rodents have been compiled for many chemicals. The results of all of these assays provide a substantial database for evaluating chemical effects and for defining the complex relationships between mutagenicity and carcinogenicity.
A “how-to” demonstration highlighting the single-incision insertion technique of chest port placement

Learning Objectives To provide a “how-to” demonstration highlighting the single-incision insertion technique of chest port placement. Background Oncology patients who require frequent intravenous infusions have come to rely on long term venous access ports (1). The most widely used technique for implantable chest ports involve the creation of a venotomy in the anterior neck, a subcutaneous tunnel and a separate anterior chest skin incision through which the subcutaneous pocket is created as the port reservoir (2). A modified technique has been described in which the internal jugular vein access and the pocket for the port reservoir are established through a single chest wall incision (3). Clinical Findings/Procedure Details This technique will be demonstrated with accompanying images. The distal third of a 21-g micropuncture needle is manually bent into a smooth curve of approximately 35 degrees. A puncture site is chosen 2 cm inferior to the midpoint of the clavicle. Under ultrasound guidance, the needle is advanced subcutaneously in a cephalad direction and then made to turn horizontally toward the internal jugular vein. After puncturing the IJ, a wire is advanced under fluoroscopy to the junction of the SVC and right atrium. After placing an introducer sheath, the port catheter is inserted over the wire and advanced to the SVC. The proximal portion of the catheter is then attached to the port, which is placed within a subcutaneous pocket. Conclusion and/or Teaching Points The single incision insertion approach is technically feasible, lowers the risk of infection and bleeding and is aesthetically more pleasing. This technique can be applied in the insertion of most tunneled catheters. References 1. Silberzweig JE, Sacks D, Khorsandi AS, Bakal CW. Reporting standards for central venous access. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2003; 14(suppl):S443-S452. 2. Charles HW, Miguel T, Kovacs S, et al. Chest Port Placement with use of the single-incision insertion technique. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2009; 20:1464-1469. 3. Glenn BJ. Single-incision method for the placement of an implantable chest port or a tunneled catheter. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2007; 18:137-140.