cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Functions of Parting CEremonies in Dying Organizations

This paper advances a theory about the functions that parting ceremonies serve for members displaced by organizational deaths. The theory is grounded in data from 11 parties, picnics, and dinners t...
Improving reliability and energy efficiency of disk systems via utilization control

As disk drives become increasingly sophisticated and processing power increases, one of the most critical issues of designing modern disk systems is data reliability. Although numerous energy saving techniques are available for disk systems, most of energy conservation techniques are not effective in reliability critical environments due to their limitation of ignoring the reliability issue. A wide range of factors affect the reliability of disk systems; the most important factors - disk utilization and ages - are the focus of this study. We build a model to quantify the relationship among the disk age, utilization, and failure probabilities. Observing that the reliability of a disk heavily relies on both disk utilization and age, we propose a novel concept of safe utilization zone, where energy of the disk can be conserved without degrading reliability. We investigate an approach to improving both reliability and energy efficiency of disk systems via utilization control, where disk drives are operated in safe utilization zones to minimize the probability of disk failure. In this study, we integrate an existing energy consumption technique that operates the disks at different power modes with our proposed reliability approach. Experimental results show that our approach can significantly improve reliable while achieving high energy efficiency for disk systems.
Isolation and Molecular Characterization of a Putative Ascorbate Peroxidase Gene from Citrus

Ascorbate peroxidase is the key enzyme in detoxifying hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and other reactive oxygen species from chloroplast and cytosol. A cDNA encoding a putative citrus ascorbate peroxidase, APXcit was isolated from mature ‘Dancy’ tangerine (Citrus reticulata Blanco) juice vesicles using differential display reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The full-length APXcit sequence was composed of 1,082 bp nucleotides, including an open reading frame of 753 bp, putatively encoding a protein of 250 amino acids with a predicted molecular mass of 27 kDa. The 5′ untranslated region consisted of 90 nucleotides and the 3′ untranslated region of 239. The genomic clone of 2,457 bp was composed of 8 introns and 9 exons. A homology search for APXcit at the GenBank database showed high similarity to ascorbate peroxidase from several plant species. Southern analysis revealed that there may be 2–4 APXcit gene copies in citrus.
Response kinetics of radiation-induced micronucleated reticulocytes in human bone marrow culture

Abstract The frequency of micronucleated reticulocytes (MN-RETs) in the bone marrow or peripheral blood is a sensitive indicator of cytogenetic damage. While the kinetics of MN-RET induction in rodent models following irradiation has been investigated and reported, information about MN-RET induction of human bone marrow after radiation exposure is sparse. In this report, we describe a human long-term bone marrow culture (LTBMC), established in three-dimensional (3D) bioreactors, which sustains long-term erythropoiesis. Using this system, we measured the kinetics of human bone marrow red blood cell (RBC) and reticulocyte (RET) production, as well as the kinetics of human MN-RET induction following radiation exposure up to 6 Gy. Human bone marrow established in the 3D bioreactor demonstrated an average percentage of RBCs among total viable cells peaking at 21% on day 21. The average percentage of RETs among total viable cells reached a maximum of 11% on day 14, and remained above 5% by day 28, suggesting that terminal erythroid differentiation was still active. Time- and dose-dependent induction of MN-RET by gamma radiation was observed in the human 3D LTBMC, with peak values occurring at approximately 3 days following 1 Gy irradiation. A trend towards delayed peak to 3–5 days post-radiation was observed with radiation doses ≥2 Gy. Our data reveal valuable information on the kinetics of radiation-induced MN-RET of human bone marrow cultured in the 3D bioreactor, a synthetic bioculture system, and suggest that this model may serve as a promising tool for studying MN-RET formation in human bone marrow, thereby providing opportunities to study bone marrow genotoxicity testing, mitigating agent effects, and other conditions that are not ordinarily feasible to experimental manipulation in vivo.
Inhibition by 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine of differentiation-dependent changes in glycosaminoglycans of the retina.

Abstract Embryonic chick neural retinas incorporated radio-labeled precursors into glycosaminoglycans in the same relative amounts whether cultured as intact tissues, cell aggregates, or monolayers. Incubation with 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine inhibited histogenesis and caused the pattern of synthesis to remain more like that in undifferentiated tissue, when compared with controls without this nucleoside analog. This was determined by the level of incorporation and the ratios of chondroitin sulfate to heparan sulfate and chondroitin-4-sulfate to chondroitin-6-sulfate incorporation. Incubation with 4-methylumbelliferyl-β-D-xylopyranoside stimulated synthesis and release of chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate into the medium. The results taken together imply that the production of specific glycosaminoglycans during the course of differentiation in the retina is regulated at the gene level in parallel with histogenesis in this tissue.
Renewal approximations of the doubly stochastic Poisson processes

Abstract In this paper, we analyze two approaches to approximate a doubly stochastic Poisson (DSP) process by a renewal process. A DSP process consists of Poisson processes whose rates alternate between two levels. Each rate remains for renewal times forming an alternating renewal process. Such processes can be used to model situations in reliability, inventory, queueing and production systems. We develop two expressions for the Laplace-Stieltjes transforms of the interrenewal time distributions of the renewal processes that approximate a DSP process. We then use these approximations to develop expressions for the stationary loss probability in a G/M/1/0 system. We evaluate the quality of these approximations by comparing them against exact results. Our approximations should be of significant use in several practical applications.
Limitations of the enzymic-isotope dilution method for the assay of metabolites

Abstract 1. 1. Newsholme and Taylor 1 described a method for the quantitative estimation of metabolites in extracts and fluids of biological origin. They claimed this method, called the enzymic-isotope dilution technique, was both sensitive and specific since it employed both radioactive isotopes and highly purified enzymes. This communication considers the limitations of that method. 2. 2. It is shown that in reactions where one or more metabolites in addition to the substrate bind relatively tightly to the enzyme an erroneous value for substrate concentration will be obtained. Mannose in the reaction mixture was shown to give a high estimate of glucose concentration by the enzymic-isotope dilution procedure using hexokinase as the catalyst.
Inhaled isobutyl nitrite inhibited macrophage inducible nitric oxide by blocking NFκB signaling and promoting degradation of inducible nitric oxide synthase-2

We previously reported that inhaled isobutyl nitrite inhibited macrophage tumoricidal activity by inhibiting inducible nitric oxide (NO) production. In the present study, a much shorter inhalant exposure regimen (five daily exposures) inhibited inducible NO and the NO synthase (NOS2). One of the ways in which NO and NOS2 are regulated is by ubiquitin-dependent NOS2 degradation. Immunoprecipitated NOS2 showed increased poly-ubiquitination, following exposure to the inhalant. In addition, Western blots of macrophage nuclear extracts for the NFkappaB subunit, p65, showed that exposure to the inhalant inhibited NFkappaB signaling, necessary for induction of NOS2. The inhalant blocked phosphorylation of the NFkappaB inhibitor, IkappaBalpha. The inhibition of NFkappaB signaling following inhalant exposure was confirmed using mice transgenic for the kappaB-dependent promoter of the HIV 5' LTR linked to luciferase. The data suggested that inhalant exposure likely inhibited macrophage NO production by blocking NFkappaB-mediated activation signaling and promoting poly ubiquitination of NOS2.
The effective variance weighting for least squares calculations applied to the mass balance receptor model

Abstract The effective variance weighted least squares solution to the mass balance receptor model is derived from the theory of maximum likelihood. The solution is one which contains the effects of random uncertainties in both the receptor concentrations and the source compositions. The solution involves trancendental equations of the unknown source contribution variables, and an iterative solution is required. This solution and the ordinary weighted least squares solution are applied to ten sets of simulated data generated from known source contributions and source compositions, perturbed by random experimental errors typical of those to be found in environmental sampling. The standard deviation of the source contributions calculated from each of these data sets is compared with the uncertainty obtained from the ordinary and effective variance least squares solutions; the effective variance solution provides the more accurate estimate. Extensions of this method to other least squares treatments of environmental data are proposed.
Understanding the Magnitude Dependence of PGA and PGV in NGA‐West 2 Data

The Next Generation Attenuation‐West 2 (NGA‐West 2) 2014 ground‐motion prediction equations (GMPEs) model ground motions as a function of magnitude and distance, using empirically derived coefficients (e.g., Bozorgnia et al. , 2014); as such, these GMPEs do not clearly employ earthquake source parameters beyond moment magnitude ( M ) and focal mechanism. To better understand the magnitude‐dependent trends in the GMPEs, we build a comprehensive earthquake source‐based model to explain the magnitude dependence of peak ground acceleration and peak ground velocity in the NGA‐West 2 ground‐motion databases and GMPEs. Our model employs existing models (Hanks and McGuire, 1981; Boore, 1983, 1986; Anderson and Hough, 1984) that incorporate a point‐source Brune model, including a constant stress drop and the high‐frequency attenuation parameter κ , random vibration theory, and a finite‐fault assumption at the large magnitudes to describe the data from magnitudes 3 to 8. We partition this range into four different magnitude regions, each of which has different functional dependences on M . Use of the four magnitude partitions separately allows greater understanding of what happens in any one subrange, as well as the limiting conditions between the subranges. This model provides a remarkably good fit to the NGA data for magnitudes from 3< M <8 at close rupture distances ( R rup≤20 km). We explore the trade‐offs between Δ σ and κ in ground‐motion models and data, which play an important role in understanding small‐magnitude data, for which the corner frequency is masked by the attenuation of high frequencies. That this simple, source‐based model matches the NGA‐West 2 GMPEs and data so well suggests that considerable simplicity underlies the parametrically complex NGA GMPEs. Online Material: Figures providing detail on the V S 30 distribution in the subset of the Next Generation Attenuation‐West 2 (NGA‐West 2) data used, the quarter‐wavelength amplifications used in the model, the statistical test for the large magnitude portion of the model, and the magnitude dependence.
Let's get serious about Caprice

It is often asserted that economic science is predictive. Our textbooks are full of such claims. Predictive success, in fact, is given the central role in what serves as the conventional methodology of orthodox economics-Friedman’s “methodology of positive economics.” According to this popular view, theories rise or fall based on their records of predictive success (Boland, 1979; Friedman, 1953; dz Stanley, 1985). Wouldn’t the majority of economists agree with the view expressed by Christ (1951) that “the ultimate test of an econometric model . . . comes with checking its predictions” (Armstrong, 1984, p. 19)? With such importance placed on prediction, why do economic models predict so poorly? Specifically, why do naive time series methods typically outperform theoretically well-supported, macroeconomic forecasting models? After decades of distinguished development, what explains the meager record of successful econometric accomoplishments? In spite of the folklore that dismisses this
The pet as an anxiolytic intervention.

The effect of a pet on psychological consequences of stress (i.e., state and trait anxiety levels) of college students was examined under three test conditions (i.e., reading aloud, reading quietly, and interacting with a friendly but unknown dog). A repeated-measures analysis of variance with three covariates was used to examine the effect of the treatment on each dependent variable (state and trait anxiety). Reading aloud differed from baseline measure under all treatment conditions (p less than .001). Reading quietly and interacting with the dog were slightly below baseline for variables, with more effect seen by reading quietly than by interacting with the dog. Examination of interactions among variables showed no significant differences. Effects upon state anxiety were significant, while trait anxiety levels remained fairly constant throughout the treatments. Baseline differences in trait anxiety scores indicate a potentially greater benefit for pet owners than nonowners. Selected social network and relationship data related to the role of the pet during anxiety-producing times were also analyzed. While interaction with the pet produced a decrease in anxiety level, pet owners did not report the use of their own pet as a social support (i.e., as confidant) significantly more than did previous owners. Results indicated that interacting with a pet for some individuals does affect both physiological and psychological responses by lowering response levels. However, a parallel effect was also seen by reading quietly. Given the effect of pet interaction upon selected social support indicators of health in well college students, these data suggest the importance of examining this treatment with an "at-risk" group in which it is possible to control for ownership characteristics.
Hereditary pancreatitis-associated mutation Asn21 → Ile stabilizes rat trypsinogen in vitro.

Mutations Arg(117) --> His and Asn(21) --> Ile in human trypsinogen-I have been recently associated with hereditary pancreatitis (HP). The Arg(117) --> His substitution is believed to cause pancreatitis by stabilizing trypsin against autolytic degradation, while the mechanism of action of Asn(21) --> Ile has been unknown. In an effort to understand the effect(s) of this mutation, Thr(21) in the highly homologous rat trypsinogen-II was replaced with Asn or Ile, and the recombinant zymogens and their active trypsin forms were studied. Kinetic parameters of all three trypsins were comparable, and the active enzymes suffered autolysis at similar rates, indicating that neither catalytic properties nor proteolytic stability of trypsin are influenced by mutations at position 21. When incubated at pH 8.0, 37 degrees C, pure zymogens underwent autoactivation with concomitant trypsinolytic degradation in a Ca(2+)-dependent fashion. Thus, in the presence of 5 mM Ca(2+), autoactivation and digestion of the zymogens after Arg(117) and Lys(188) were observed, while in the presence of 1 mM EDTA autoactivation and cleavage at Lys(188) were reduced, and zymogenolysis at the Arg(117) site was enhanced. Overall rates of zymogen degradation in [Asn(21)]- and [Ile(21)]trypsinogens were higher in Ca(2+) than in EDTA, while [Thr(21)]trypsinogen demonstrated inverse characteristics. Remarkably, both in the presence and absence of Ca(2+), [Ile(21)]trypsinogen exhibited significantly higher stability against autoactivation and proteolysis than zymogens with Asn(21) or Thr(21). The observations suggest that autocatalytic trypsinogen degradation may be an important defense mechanism against excessive trypsin generation in the pancreas, and trypsinogen stabilization by the Asn(21) --> Ile mutation plays a role in the pathogenesis of HP.
Stereoselective synthesis of stable isotope‐labeled L‐α‐amino acids: Chemomicrobiological synthesis of L‐[β‐13C]‐, L‐[2′‐13C]‐, and L‐[1′15N]tryptophan

We have developed a stereospecific chemomicrobiological synthesis of labeled tryptophan. L-[3-13C]Serine, [1-15N]- and [2-13C]indole were used as precursors for the synthesis of L-[β-13C]-, L-[1′-15N]-, and L-[2′-13C]tryptophan, respectively. The labeled precursors were incorporated quantitatively into tryptophan using a strain of E. coli engineered to overproduce tryptophan synthase. Labeled indoles were prepared by the base-promoted cyclization of appropriately labeled N-formyl-o-toluide; serine was prepared biosynthetically as described previously.
A pedagogical aid for linking methodological and statistical courses

A critical component in teaching research methods and statistics is linking the data collection with data analysis in such a way that students are engaged and encouraged. Using a strategy congruent with Greek's “active learning” (1995) and Chernak and Weiss's “activity-based learning” (1999), this paper outlines a heuristic mechanism that involves students with data collection, analysis, and utilization of 5 different software programs. To illustrate the process, a case study of my Spring 1999 graduate course in quantitative methods and computer utilization is presented.
Model discrimination of chemical reaction networks by linearization

Systems biologists are often faced with competing models for a given experimental system. Performing experiments can be time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, a method for designing experiments that, with high probability, discriminate between competing models is desired. In particular, biologists often employ models comprised of polynomial ordinary differential equations that arise from biochemical networks. Unfortunately, the model discrimination problem for such systems is computationally intractable. Here, we examine the linear discrimination problem: given two systems of linear differential equations with the same input and output spaces, and uncertain parameters, determine an input that is guaranteed to produce different outputs. In this context, we show that (1) if linearizations of the two nonlinear models can be discriminated, then so can the original nonlinear model; and (2) we show a class of systems for which the linear discrimination problem is convex. The approach is illustrated on a biochemical network with an unknown structure.
Stability analysis of the accretion line

The stability of the flow along the accretion line in the Bondi-Hoyle-Lyttleton-type accretion flow is studied. The WKB approximation is used to analyze short wavelength linear perturbations of the axisymmetric steady state flow. The viscosity terms in the gasdynamical equations are included in the analysis. The radial modes are studied both in two- and three-dimensional accretion flow. Since a displaced accretion line cannot be defined in three-dimensional flow, the tangential modes are only analyzed in the two-dimensional flow. The analysis of the perturbed gasdynamical equations are made simpler as a result of the radial and tangential modes being decoupled in the linear regime. As was shown before, the three-dimensional accretion flow is unstable against radial modes. The two-dimensional accretion flow is found to be unstable against tangential modes, as well as against radial modes. Using typical numerical parameters which are in common use, the wavelength which gives the maximum growth rate of a small perturbation is found to be about 0.5 r(a), where r(a) is the accretion radius.
Divergent Changes of Thyroxine-5′-Monodeiodination in Rat Pituitary and Liver during Maturation*

T4,-5′-monodeiodination in pituitary fragments and liver homogenates, serum thyroid hormones, an index of serum thyroid hormone protein binding, and serum TSH were measured in rats aged 2-72 days. Serum T4, T3, and TSH concentrations were lower in the 2-, 4-, and 9-day-old rats than in adult rats. The serum thyroid hormone-binding index was highest in neonatal rats, fell to a nadir at 21 days, and rose thereafter. The intrapituitary T4-5′-monodeiodination rate was 3.5 times the 72-day value in 2- and 4-day-old rats and fell to the 72-day value by 30 days of age. T4-5′-monodeiodination rates in liver homogenates were lower than the adult values in 2-, 4-, and 9-day-old rats, reaching the adult value in 21-day-old rats. When 5 mM dithiothreitol were included in the liver homogenate incubations, the absolute T4-5′-monodeiodination rates were increased, and the differences among 2-, 4-, 9-, 21-, and 72-day-old rats were abolished. Increased rates of intrapituitary T4-5′-monodeiodination may, in part, account ...
A model of weber and noise gain control in the retina of the toad Bufo marinus

We present several variations of a model of gain control in the retina of the toad Bufo marinus, and use them to fit the threshold-vs-intensity data of an actual toad ganglion cell [ Donner et al. (1990) . Journal of General Physiology, 95, 733–753]. Our models are based on a proposal by Donner et al. that the gain (neural spike per photon ratio) of toad ganglion cells is set by a sequence of two retinal gain control stages. The first stage consists of a Weber gain control mechanism at the level of the red rods. The second is a more proximal “noise gain” stage, which multiplies the (incremental) input signal by a factor that is inversely proportional to the standard deviation of the random ganglion cell input and, under conditions that produce the de Vries-Rose threshold law, is also proportional to the standard deviation of the photon fluctuations within the ganglion cell receptive field. We demonstrate that noise gain control arises naturally from modeling ganglion cell spike generation with either of two common types of spike generation models: integrate-and-fire models or threshold accommodation models. We simulate the process of spike generation in both types of models and show that either model can account for the basic overall shape of the toad t.v.i. curve. However, although integrate-and-fire models appropriately generate noise gain control, they cannot quantitatively fit the threshold data with realistic retinal parameters. Integrate-and-fire models also fail to account for the observed relationship between the generator potential of the ganglion cell and its spiking probability. A threshold accommodation model with realistic retinal parameters, on the other hand, can account for both the threshold data and the generator potential-spike probability relationship. When a Weber gain stage is added to the model at the photoreceptor level, the resulting two-stage gain control model is shown to account quantitatively for the ganglion cell t.v.i. curve of Bufo marinus over the full range of background levels studied by Donner et al.
Correlation and prediction of gas permeability in glassy polymer membrane materials via a modified free volume based group contribution method

Over the past decade or more an extensive amount of data on the permeation of gases such as helium, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide in a wide array of glassy polymers has been published. Much of this work has been motivated by the search for materials with high permeability and high selectivity for potential use as gas separation membranes. This paper attempts to develop a method for correlating this data in a way that permits prediction of permselectivity behavior of other polymer structures. The method used involves an empirical modification of a free volume scheme that has been used in the past with some success. The previous method requires an experimental density of the polymer and an estimate of occupied volume from a group contribution method developed by Bondi. The present method actually predicts the density and uses a refined estimate of occupied volume specific to each gas. The parameters in the model were deduced from a database including over one hundred polymers. The new method significantly improves the accuracy of correlation and of prediction.
Corporate taxes, growth and welfare in a Schumpeterian economy

Abstract I take a new look at the long-run implications of taxation through the lens of modern Schumpeterian growth theory. I focus on the latest vintage of models that sterilize the scale effect through a process of product proliferation that fragments the aggregate market into submarkets whose size does not increase with the size of the workforce. I show that the following interventions raise welfare: (a) granting full expensibility of RD (b) eliminating the corporate income tax and/or the capital gains tax; (c) reducing taxes on labor and/or consumption. What makes these results remarkable is that in all three cases the endogenous increase in the tax on dividends necessary to balance the budget has a positive effect on growth. A general implication of my analysis is that corporate taxation plays a special role in Schumpeterian economies and provides novel insights on how to design welfare-enhancing tax reforms.
Osteoporosis in men: Are we ready to diagnose and treat?

Because osteoporosis and its attendant fractures are more common in women than in men, most studies have been performed in women. However, age-related osteoporosis and fragility fractures are also a major problem in men. Recent studies suggest that diagnosing men as osteoporotic when they fall more than 2.5 standard deviations below the mean for young men identifies a group at risk for fracture. Data suggest that many men with femoral fractures have age-related hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is associated with decreased lean body mass and bone mass. Most men with femoral fractures are reported to be hypogonadal. Testosterone replacement in hypogonadal older men improves bone mass and lean body mass. A therapeutic intervention to reduce fracture incidence in men with osteoporosis has been reported. No population-based study has examined the incidence or prevalence of hypogonadism with or without osteoporosis in men. Thus, osteoporosis in men probably exists with and without hypogonadism. Therapeutic interventions should be based on treatment of hypogonadism when present with osteoporosis.
Effects of a Proximal or Distal Tibiofibular Joint Manipulation on Ankle Range of Motion and Functional Outcomes in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability

Study Design Randomized clinical trial. Objectives To determine whether manipulation of the proximal or distal tibiofibular joint would change ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and functional outcomes over a 3-week period in individuals with chronic ankle instability. Background Altered joint arthrokinematics may play a role in chronic ankle instability dysfunction. Joint mobilization or manipulation may offer the ability to restore normal joint arthrokinematics and improve function. Methods Forty-three participants (mean ± SD age, 25.6 ± 7.6 years; height, 174.3 ± 10.2 cm; mass, 74.6 ± 16.7 kg) with chronic ankle instability were randomized to proximal tibiofibular joint manipulation, distal tibiofibular joint manipulation, or a control group. Outcome measures included ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, the single-limb stance on foam component of the Balance Error Scoring System, the step-down test, and the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure sports subscale. Measurements were obtained prior to the interven...
Management of distal radial fractures.

Interest in one of the most common injuries to the musculoskeletal system—the distal radial fracture—has been renewed. Literature over the past two centuries had even led some to believe that the distal radial fracture was a solved problem. In contrast, we are now confronted with a marked swing toward stable internal fixation being touted by some authors as the treatment of choice for all but the most stable, aligned fractures. Instructional courses, symposia, and skills courses worldwide are now oversubscribed, bearing witness to these changing perspectives. It is surprising that, despite this aggressive push toward internal fixation, there is no convincing evidence that supports this approach in the contemporary literature. To what can we attribute this dramatic shift in the management of the distal radial fracture? In this review, we will attempt to answer this question by looking in depth at a number of contributing factors—changing epidemiologic patterns; a growing understanding of the injury mechanism; the development of enhanced imaging techniques; novel plate designs, especially those featuring …
Dissociated vertical deviation: Etiology, mechanism, and associated phenomena ☆ ☆☆

Abstract Purpose: The etiology and mechanism of dissociated vertical deviation (DVD) are explored. Methods: In 6 young adults with DVD, the simultaneous horizontal, vertical, and torsional eye movements for both eyes were recorded by using dual-coil scleral search coils. Analysis of the simultaneous vertical and torsional movements that occurred during the DVD response identified the primary muscles acting in the vergences and versions involved. Results: Typically, both horizontal and cyclovertical latent nystagmus developed upon occlusion of either eye. A cycloversion/vertical vergence then occurred, with the fixing eye intorting and tending to depress and the covered eye extorting and elevating. Simultaneously, upward versions occurred for the maintenance of fixation, consisting of various saccades and smooth eye movements, and this led to further elevation of the eye behind the cover. The cyclovertical component of the latent nystagmus became partially damped as the DVD developed. Conclusions: In patients with an early onset defect of binocular function, the occlusion of one eye, or even concentration on fixing with one eye, produces unbalanced input to the vestibular system. This results in latent nystagmus with a cyclovertical component, sometimes only seen with magnification. A normal, oblique-muscle-produced, cycloversion/vertical vergence then comes into play, occurring in an exaggerated form in the absence of binocular vision, probably as a learned response. This cycloversion/vertical vergence helps damp the cyclovertical nystagmus (a cyclovertical "nystagmus blockage" phenomenon), aiding vision in the fixing eye. But this mechanism also produces unavoidable and undesirable elevation and extorsion of the fellow eye, which we call DVD. (J AAPOS 2000;4:131–44) J AAPOS 2000;4:131–44
The drive to regain is mainly in the brain.

the extremely high rate of recidivism in the treatment of human obesity is a well-documented phenomenon ([18][1], [19][2], [57][3]). The factors that underlie this high failure rate are widely debated, and no consensus has yet been reached. One seemingly insurmountable problem in identifying
785: Antepartum risk factors and delivery-related morbidities in cases of failed operative vaginal deliveries

784 Failure rate and delivery-related maternal morbidity in vacuum delivery, forceps delivery, or a combination of both Alex Fong, Erica Wu, Deyu Pan, Dotun Ogunyemi, Judith Chung University of California, Irvine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Orange, CA, Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science, Research SLI, Los Angeles, CA, University of California, Los Angeles, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Los Angeles, CA OBJECTIVE: To assess the differences in delivery-related morbidity and failure rate when comparing vacuum delivery, forceps delivery, or combined use of both. STUDY DESIGN: We used 2001-2007 California discharge data to identify cases of forceps and vacuum delivery via ICD-9. After eliminating cases with incomplete data, we identified 202,439 cases of vacuum, 13,555 cases of forceps, and 710 cases where both were used. We used logistic regression to adjust for potential confounders. RESULTS: Morbidities increased in forceps compared to vacuum deliveries included third/fourth degree lacerations (OR 2.07, 95%CI 1.98-2.16), postpartum hemorrhage (OR 1.51, 95%CI 1.39-1.64), manual extraction of placenta (OR 1.35, 95%CI 1.17-1.55), pelvic hematoma requiring evacuation (OR 2.05, 95%CI 1.44-2.91), and cervical laceration repair (OR 1.73, 95%CI 1.27-2.36). There was a trend towards increased risk of thromboembolic events in forceps deliveries (OR 2.93, 95%CI 1.00-8.62). When a combination of both instruments was used, third/fourth degree lacerations were increased compared to both vacuum (OR 2.77, 95% CI 2.36-3.26) and forceps (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.80-1.64). Postpartum hemorrhage was increased compared to vacuum as well (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.33-2.47). Compared to forceps deliveries, vacuum deliveries were more associated with shoulder dystocia (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.28-1.60). Forceps had the lowest failure rate (2.14%), followed by increased failure rates in combined use (3.66%, OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.22-2.79) and vacuum (5.60%, OR 2.65, 95% CI 2.37-2.97). CONCLUSION: Forceps delivery is the most successful in achieving vaginal delivery but appears to be associated with several delivery-related morbidities. Combining both vacuum and forceps is more successful than vacuum alone, but is no better than forceps alone, and is associated with even further morbidity. These results, in conjunction with each method’s neonatal risks, should be considered prior to contemplating use of vacuum, forceps, or both at delivery.
Measuring Sprawl: A New Index, Recent Trends, and Future Research

Sprawl is a popular subject in the urban literature, yet conceptualization and measurement have proven elusive. Projects which focus either on empirical advances in the quantification of urban form...
Leukocytosis caused by prostaglandin E1 in neonates.

Abstract We conducted a retrospective study of neonatal leukocytosis induced by prostaglandin E 1 . Among 45 neonates with congenital heart disease, leukocyte counts increased during PGE 1 infusion. We conclude that PGE 1 infusion is a predictable cause of leukocytosis in newborns with congenital heart disease. (J Pediatr 2001;138:263-5)
A genetic screen for terminator function in yeast identifies a role for a new functional domain in termination factor Nab3

The yeast IMD2 gene encodes an enzyme involved in GTP synthesis. Its expression is controlled by guanine nucleotides through a set of alternate start sites and an intervening transcriptional terminator. In the off state, transcription results in a short non-coding RNA that starts upstream of the gene. Transcription terminates via the Nrd1-Nab3-Sen1 complex and is degraded by the nuclear exosome. Using a sensitive terminator read-through assay, we identified trans-acting Terminator Override (TOV) genes that operate this terminator. Four genes were identified: the RNA polymerase II phosphatase SSU72, the RNA polymerase II binding protein PCF11, the TRAMP subunit TRF4 and the hnRNP-like, NAB3. The TOV phenotype can be explained by the loss of function of these gene products as described in models in which termination and RNA degradation are coupled to the phosphorylation state of RNA polymerase II's repeat domain. The most interesting mutations were those found in NAB3, which led to the finding that the removal of merely three carboxy-terminal amino acids compromised Nab3's function. This region of previously unknown function is distant from the protein's well-known RNA binding and Nrd1 binding domains. Structural homology modeling suggests this Nab3 'tail' forms an α-helical multimerization domain that helps assemble it onto an RNA substrate.
Function-to-structure transformation in conceptual design: An associative memory-based paradigm

The three most important phases of design are (1) conceptual phase; (2) configuration phase; and (3) parameterization phase. The second and the third phases are well researched. However, little work has been done in the conceptual design phase. In this paper the author deals with a different way of modeling the conceptual design phase. In this research the paradigm of function-to-structure transformation is used. One of the most difficult ideas of design is that of modeling the function-to-structure transformation process. The current research shows that the function-to-structure transformation is accomplished through a process of association. Whenever a designer is faced with finding a solution to a new functional requirement, the designer tries to associate this new function with known functions from his/her memory through a process of association. After having identified the closest function, an associated structure can be retrieved and mutated to form the design solution for the new problem. In essence, the designer associates the new functions with known functions and will try to retrieve the closest and most general design solution from his/her memory through a process of association. The author models the human associative memory through artificial neural networks (ANN) with back-propagation. A simple yet illustrative example of cups and containers is selected to model the function-to-structure transformation process at the conceptual design phase. In this paper the implementation aspects of the ANN are clearly explained. The robustness of the ANN through different schemes is also explored. A performance analysisvia simulation by varying the nodes of the hidden layer is also carried out.
Learning: rapid aversive conditioning in the gastropod mollusk Pleurobranchaea

Untrained Pleurobranchaea feed voraciously when presented food and withdraw from electrical shocks. We trained experimental animals in ten trials spaced 1 hour apart to withdraw from food alone by electrically shocking them if they fed or were indifferent to food. The greatest increase in the number of learned withdrawal responses occurred within 12 hours after conditioning, and was accompanied by long-lasting increased in the threshold and latency of feeding responses. Control animals, which received food and shock alternately (unpaired) every half hour, showed considerably weaker changes than experimentals. These control responses quickly returned to initial levels after conditioning.
Obtaining Social Welfare Benefits for Persons With Serious Mental Illness

The types of social welfare benefits available for mentally ill patients, including Social Security, Social Security Disability insurance, Supplemental Security income, Aid to Families With Dependent Children, Medicare, and Medicaid, are briefly described, and their eligibility criteria are summarized, Special requirements that may apply to immigrants are briefly noted. Case vignettes illustrate how mental health professionals can help patients obtain benefits to improve the quality of their living conditions.
A Subunit Interaction Site in Human Luteinizing Hormone: Identification by Photoaffinity Cross-Linking*

The sites of noncovalent association between the alpha- (common) and beta- (hormone-specific) subunits in the glycoprotein hormones [LH, human CG (hCG), FSH, and TSH] remain to be completely defined. This information is essential to efforts to map the three-dimensional structure of the hormones and to help explain the stability of the hormone heterodimer in the circulation. Among numerous approaches that have been employed to identify these sites of subunit interaction, chemical or photoaffinity cross-linking has the advantage of identifying the complementary sites of contact on the respective subunits. We have used the stable photoaffinity ligand, L-benzoylphenylalanine (Bpa), to evaluate subunit interaction by the hLH beta sequence (1-15). A peptide from this region of hCG beta has been shown previously to inhibit subunit association. The 3H-labeled Bpa was incorporated into the peptide at position 8 (Trp) during solid-phase synthesis. After incubation with alpha under long-wavelength (366 nm) ultraviol...
Hwp1 and Related Adhesins Contribute to both Mating and Biofilm Formation in Candida albicans

ABSTRACT Candida albicans Hwp1, Hwp2, and Rbt1 are related cell wall proteins expressed during the programs of sexual differentiation and filamentous growth. In this study, we compare strains lacking either single factors or a combination of these genes, and we demonstrate distinct but overlapping roles in mating and biofilm formation.
The evolution of the blogger: Blogger considerations of public relations-sponsored content in the blogosphere

Abstract Blogging, though a personal medium for self-expression, has also become a channel for public relations to represent organizational interests. This study addresses blogger considerations of public relations in such a personal arena. Results show that as bloggers go through an evolutionary process of blogosphere introduction, community membership, and autonomy, which influences their content considerations and willingness to work with public relations practitioners.
Ad sanctitatem mortuorum: tomb raiders, body snatchers and relic hunters in late antiquity

In late antiquity there emerged new laws that sought to protect the dead through the prevention and punishment of crimes that contravened the sanctity of the body and its resting place, including the profanation of cadavers, tomb violation, and grave-robbery. On a more personal level, individuals used epitaphs to convey their wishes to be left undisturbed after burial, and family and kin members began searching for new ways to commemorate the memory of loved ones that did not put their mortal remains at risk. At the same time, the increasing popularity of the cult of saints and martyrs put greater emphasis on the importance of relics as objects of veneration, which in turn led to elaborate strategies of acquisition, including the exhumation, transporting and dismembering of the dead. All of these developments were inspired in some degree by a growing awareness of the body as a symbol of God's eternal love for mankind. Yet paradoxically, literary and archaeological evidence confirms that grave-robbing was a relatively widespread phenomenon during this time. The question for historians, therefore, is one of legitimacy: in what instances was the violation of tombs considered acceptable or legitimate, and by whom? In answering this, we can learn a great deal about the cultural and religious factors that underpinned the development of new laws and customs concerning the treatment of the dead.
Does acid suppressive therapy reduce the risk of laryngeal cancer recurrence

Objective/Hypothesis: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is implicated in laryngeal cancer pathogenesis and recurrence posttherapy. There are currently limited data on the effect of acid suppressive therapy in decreasing the recurrence of laryngeal cancer. Therefore, we conducted this study to identify potential effect of GERD and acid suppressive therapy on recurrences after larynx-preserving therapies. Study Design: Case control study. Methods: Cases and controls, derived from a single tertiary care center, were patients who had newly diagnosed localized laryngeal cancer (T3 or less and absence of nodes) and having undergone larynx-preserving surgery or radiotherapy/chemotherapy were followed between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2003. Univariable associations were performed for demographics, smoking and alcohol patterns, stage of tumor, initial treatment, surgeon of record, presence of GERD, and the use of acid suppressive medications. Multivariable associations were performed for clinically significant variables. Results: Of 258 patients with laryngeal cancer, 61 satisfied the selection criteria. Twenty-two of 61 (36%) developed recurrence and constituted cases, whereas 39/61 (64%) did not have recurrence and constituted controls. On univariable analysis, significant factors for decreased recurrences were GERD, hazard ratio 0.24 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.08–0.71), and acid suppressive therapy, hazards 0.22 (95% CI 0.07–0.66). On multivariable analysis, laryngeal cancer recurrence was significantly less in those on acid suppressive therapy, hazard 0.31 (95% CI 0.13–0.75). Conclusions: Acid suppression postlaryngeal cancer therapies may have protective effect on laryngeal cancer recurrences. A prospective study is needed to better define this perceived beneficial effect.
A multi-isotope (δD, δ18O, 87Sr/86Sr, and δ11B) approach for identifying saltwater intrusion and resolving groundwater evolution along the Western Caprock Escarpment of the Southern High Plains, New Mexico.

Abstract Declining water levels in arid and semi-arid regions increase an aquifer’s vulnerability to natural and anthropogenic influences. A multi-isotope ( δ D, δ 18 O, 87 Sr/ 86 Sr, and δ 11 B) approach was used to resolve the geochemical evolution of groundwater in a declining aquifer in a semi-arid region of the southwestern USA as groundwater composition reacts to source-water mixing, cross-formational flow including saltwater intrusion, water–rock interaction, and likely agricultural recharge. Sub-aquifers or local flow systems are present in the Southern High Plains aquifer along the Western Caprock Escarpment in New Mexico, and the study site’s local flow system contains a Na–Cl, high dissolved-solids groundwater that flows from the escarpment until it mixes with a high quality regional aquifer or regional flow system. The local flow system contains water that is similar in composition to the underlying, upper Dockum Group aquifer. Saltwater found in the upper Dockum Group aquifer likely originates in the adjacent Pecos River Basin and crosses beneath or possibly through the hydrologic divide of the Western Caprock Escarpment. Strontium concentrations of 0.9–31 mg/L and a 87 Sr/ 86 Sr range of 0.70845–0.70906 were sufficient to estimate source-water fractions, mixing patterns, and contributions from chemical weathering through mass balance inverse calculations. Boron concentrations (59–1740 mg/L) and δ 11 B values (+6.0–+46.0‰) were used to confirm source-water mixing, further evaluate water–rock interaction, and examine the influence of possible agricultural recharge. Alteration of B concentrations and δ 11 B values in an area of likely agricultural recharge indicated the loss of B and decrease in δ 11 B values likely from plant uptake, adsorption, and weathering contributions in the soil/vadose zone prior to recharge. The effectiveness of 87 Sr/ 86 Sr and δ 11 B for resolving the geochemical influences in groundwater in the Southern High Plains along the Western Caprock Escarpment allowed for the reinterpretation of the isotopic composition of water that has been shown to be highly variable in the Southern High Plains. This study shows the utility of a multi-isotope approach for resolving the geochemical evolution of groundwater in an aquifer that has a complex relationship with underlying aquifers and the applicability of these isotopes as indicators of the alteration of source waters from natural or anthropogenic influences.