cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Novel feeding strategy for adaptive control of bioreactor processes

Abstract In this paper a novel feeding strategy is suggested for bioreactor processes. The strategy, referred to as the modified linear feeding strategy (MLFS), is shown to overcome the disadvantages of the feedback exponential feeding strategy and the linear feeding strategy, resulting in a fast response in substrate concentration for a large range of values of initial conditions. It is also shown that one of the main features of the MLFS is that it effectively decomposes the closed-loop system into a fast and a slow subsystem. This property is used to prove that the control input cannot saturate in the case when an adaptive version of MLFS is used to control the processes with Haldane kinetics. In the latter case, the MLFS is also shown to effectively help in assuring the stability of the closed-loop system. Applications of the MLFS in both nonadaptive and adaptive cases are illustrated through computer simulations.
Signal modality and choice between signaled and unsignaled food

Choice between signaled and unsignaled response-independent food schedules was assessed in three experiments using a commitment procedure. In Experiment 1, subjects tested with a 5-s visual signal consistently changed from the signaled to the unsignaled schedule. Changing from the unsignaled to the signaled schedule was observed only occasionally and only at low levels. The same outcome was observed in Experiment 2 with different types of visual signals and with different stimulus combinations identifying the signal period, the signal-absent period, and the unsignaled schedule. In Experiment 3 the visual signal was replaced with an auditory signal for four of the subjects tested in Experiment 2. The subjects then changed from the unsignaled to the signaled schedule or showed a substantial reduction in choice for the unsignaled schedule. The data were assessed using a conditioned-reinforcement interpretation of choice.
A functional protein pore with a “retro” transmembrane domain

Extended retro (reversed) peptide sequences have not previously been accommodated within functional proteins. Here, we show that the entire transmembrane portion of the β-barrel of the pore-forming protein α-hemolysin can be formed by retrosequences comprising a total of 175 amino acid residues, 25 contributed by the central sequence of each subunit of the heptameric pore. The properties of wild-type and retro heptamers in planar bilayers are similar. The single-channel conductance of the retro pore is 15% less than that of the wild-type heptamer and its current-voltage relationship denotes close to ohmic behavior, while the wild-type pore is weakly rectifying. Both wild-type and retro pores are very weakly anion selective. These results and the examination of molecular models suggest that β-barrels may be especially accepting of retro sequences compared to other protein folds. Indeed, the ability to form a retro domain could be diagnostic of a β-barrel, explaining, for example, the activity of the retro forms of many membrane-permeabilizing peptides. By contrast with the wild-type subunits, monomeric retro subunits undergo premature assembly in the absence of membranes, most likely because the altered central sequence fails to interact with the remainder of the subunit, thereby initiating assembly. Despite this difficulty, a technique was devised for obtaining heteromeric pores containing both wild-type and retro subunits. Most probably as a consequence of unfavorable interstrand side-chain interactions, the heteromeric pores are less stable than either the wild-type or retro homoheptamers, as judged by the presence of subconductance states in single-channel recordings. Knowledge about the extraordinary plasticity of the transmembrane β-barrel of α-hemolysin will be very useful in the de novo design of functional membrane proteins based on the β-barrel motif.
Balanced Treatment incomplete block (BTIB) designs for comparing treatments with a control: minimal complete sets of generator designs for k = 3, p = 3(1)10

Bechhofer and Tamhane (1981) proposed a new class of incomplete block designs called BTIB designs for comparing p ≥ 2 test treatments with a control treatment in blocks of equal size k < p + 1. All BTIB designs for given (p,k) can be constructed by forming unions of replications of a set of elementary BTIB designs called generator designs for that (p,k). In general, there are many generator designs for given (p,k) but only a small subset (called the minimal complete set) of these suffices to obtain all admissible BTIB designs (except possibly any equivalent ones). Determination of the minimal complete set of generator designs for given (p,k) was stated as an open problem in Bechhofer and Tamhane (1981). In this paper we solve this problem for k = 3. More specifically, we give the minimal complete sets of generator designs for k = 3, p = 3(1)10; the relevant proofs are given only for the cases p = 3(1)6. Some additional combinatorial results concerning BTIB designs are also given.
23Na NMR spectroscopy of proximal tubule suspensions

23 Na NMR spectroscopy of proximal tubule suspensions. Intracellular sodium concentrations in proximal tubule suspensions of rat kidney were measured by NMR spectroscopy. A simple method for the preparation of proximal tubule suspension is described. Examination by light microscopy revealed these preparations to contain 93.6 ± 0.6% (N = 5) proximal tubules, and electron microscopy demonstrated that the tubules were open. When incubated with trypan blue for five min, only 2% of tubules picked-up the dye. The basal oxygen consumption rate was 0.42 ± 0.01 µl min -1 mg protein -1 (N = 6). Addition of succinate (5 mM) resulted in a fivefold increase in the rate of oxygen consumption. The 23 Na spectra were obtained in proximal tubules incubated for 30 min in the aqueous shift reagent dysprosium tripolyphosphate Dy(PPP i ) 2 7- . The NMR observable sodium concentration was 34.1 ± 1.8 mM at room temperature and 16.3 ± 0.6 mM (P -4 M) at 37°C resulted in an increase in intracellular sodium to 30.9 ± 2.9 mM (P
“NEONATE”—an expert application for the “HELP” system; Comparison of the computer's and the physician's problem list

NEONATE is a prototype of an expert application for the HELP Hospital Information System. Its goal is to improve documentation in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit. The decision module of NEONATE is designed to produce an admission problem list. In this paper, the admission problem list that NEONATE generates was compared to the admission problem list of the current CETUS system for 30 patients. These were compared to a retrospectively constructed gold standard problem list. Of 101 problems in the gold standard list, 56 were on the current admission reports; 82 were found by NEONATE. NEONATE found 31 problems missed on the current admission reports; the current admission reports contained 5 problems missed by NEONATE. The current admission reports contained 9 false positives; whereas NEONATE's reports contained 27. Of the 27, 16 were caused by a single rule in NEONATE. We conclude that an expert system has great potential for improving the documentation of the patient problem list.
Bayesian inference on the odds and risk ratios

Bayesian procedures for inferences about the odds ratio and the proportionratio ⧜=p1/p2 are given. The CDF and moments for each of these quantities are calculated using a prior distribution on (p1,p2) that is the product of two independent beta densities. The Bayesian credible intervals obtained using these procedures appear to be somewhat shorter tham the intervals obotained using ancillary statistics.
Pay Now Or Pay Later: Providing Interpreter Services In Health Care

Research amply documents that language barriers impede access to health care, compromise quality of care, and increase the risk of adverse health outcomes among patients with limited English proficiency. Federal civil rights policy obligates health care providers to supply language services, but wide gaps persist because insurers typically do not pay for interpreters, among other reasons. Health care financing policies should reinforce existing medical research and legal policies: Payers, including Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurers, should develop mechanisms to pay for interpretation services for patients who speak limited English.
An autoradiographic study of the proliferation and differentiation of glial cells in vitro

Organotypic cultures of mammalian embryonic spinal cord-dorsal root ganglia combinations treated with H3 thymidine, were studied with light and electron microscopic autoradiography. Cultures pulsed with H3 thymidine for up to six hours showed 0–2% of labelled neuroepithelial cells when fixed immediately thereafter, and 7 to 15 times as many labelled cells when fixed on subsequent daysin vitro (DIV). Cultures exposed to radioactive material for days, at the initiation of the culture, and prior to myelinationin vitro, were compared. The cumulative evidence showed that the peak of proliferative activity occurred not after explantation, but between DIV 7 and DIV 12, which is after synapse formation and prior to myelination. Another smaller proliferative peak occurred after myelination between DIV 15 and DIV 19. Morphological observations with the light microscope revealed labelling of predominantly small dark cells during the first proliferative peak, that is, prior to myelination. Using electron microscopic criteria for identification, these small dark cells were “large glioblasts”, “large glial precursors” and “young” oligodendrocytes, and transitions could be observed between these cells in that order of differentiation. Oligodendrocytes when closely connected with myelin sheaths did not become labelled. Labelling and proliferation of medium large light cells inconspicuously preceded that of oligodendrocytes and their precursors, and continued modestly throughout myelination, achieving a modest peak and predominance during DIV 15 and DIV 19. Astrocytic features could be demonstrated ultrastructurally in these medium large light cells and mitotic division in this type of cell was observed. The possibility that part of this astrocytic population arose from “large glioblasts” was discussed. No labelled cells were seen ultrastructurally fulfilling criteria of amitotic division. No neurons showed labelling with H3 thymidine.
I-line lithography for subhalf-micron design rules

I-line lithography, together with single-layer resist processes, practically, have been limited to 0.45 micrometers design rules in the semiconductor industry. For design rules of 0.4 micrometers and below, several contrast enhanced methods have been proposed for i-line lithography, mainly phase shift masks, modified illumination methods, and surface imaging techniques, etc. This paper describes the sub-half micron process performance of 0.48 NA and 0.54 i-line steppers on various topography wafers which are suitable for 0.35 - 0.40 micrometers and 0.40 - 0.45 micrometers design rules. The latest high performance i-line resist and high contrast developing scheme have been chosen for this study. The process windows for the sub-half micron features on various topography wafers are reported. The feasibility to use these processes for the production with lower K 1 is also addressed.
A Method for Assessing Hydrologic Alteration within Ecosystems

Hydrologic regimes play a major role in determining the biotic composition, structure, and function of aquatic, wetland, and riparian ecosystems. But human land and water uses are substantially altering hydrologic regimes around the world. Improved quantitative evaluations of human-induced hydrologic changes are needed to advance research on the biotic implications of hydrologic alteration and to support ecosystem management and restoration plans. We propose a method for assessing the degree of hydrologic alteration attributable to human influence within an ecosystem. This method, referred to as the “Indicators of Hydrologic Alteration,” is based upon an analysis of hydrologic data available either from existing measurement points within an ecosystem (such as at stream gauges or wells) or model-generated data. We use 32 parameters, organized into five groups, to statistically characterize hydrologic variation within each year. These 32 parameters provide information on ecologically significant features of surface and ground water regimes influencing aquatic, wetland, and riparian ecosystems. We then assess the hydrologic perturbations associated with activities such as dam operations, flow diversion, groundwater pumping, or intensive land-use conversion by comparing measures of central tendency and dispersion for each parameter between user-defined “pre-impact” and “post-impact” time frames, generating 64 Indicators of Hydrologic Alteration. This method is intended for use with other ecosystem metrics in inventories of ecosystem integrity, in planning ecosystem management activities, and in setting and measuring progress toward conservation or restoration goals.
β-Fructofuranosidase production by Aspergillus species from apple pomace

Of the three Aspergillus species examined, A. foetidus NRRL 337 was found to yield the highest β-fructofuranosidase activity after 96 h of cultivation at 30 °C on apple pomace. The enzyme was purified about six-fold by ultrafiltration, gel filtration and DEAE-Sephadex A-50 chromatography. Enzyme activity was optimal at 55 °C and pH 4.0. The enzyme had a K m value of 260 mmol/L for sucrose and its molecular weight was 200 kDa.
Modeling source-filter interaction in belting and high-pitched operatic male singing

Nonlinear source-filter theory is applied to explain some acoustic differences between two contrasting male singing productions at high pitches: operatic style versus jazz belt or theater belt. Several stylized vocal tract shapes (caricatures) are discussed that form the bases of these styles. It is hypothesized that operatic singing uses vowels that are modified toward an inverted megaphone mouth shape for transitioning into the high-pitch range. This allows all the harmonics except the fundamental to be “lifted” over the first formant. Belting, on the other hand, uses vowels that are consistently modified toward the megaphone (trumpet-like) mouth shape. Both the fundamental and the second harmonic are then kept below the first formant. The vocal tract shapes provide collective reinforcement to multiple harmonics in the form of inertive supraglottal reactance and compliant subglottal reactance. Examples of lip openings from four well-known artists are used to infer vocal tract area functions and the corresponding reactances.
Determinants of pollution abatement in developing countries: Evidence from South and Southeast Asia

Abstract Developing countries, paŕticularly those in Asia, are fast adopting industrial pollution control standards similar to those in developed countries. Formal regulation has been greatly hampered, however, by the absence of clear and legally binding regulations; limited institutional capacity; lack of appropriate equipment and trained personnel; and inadequate information on emissions. One would predict highly pollution-intensive production under such conditions. Our research, however, has uncovered strongly contradictory evidence. Despite weak or nonexistent formal regulation, there are many clean plants in the developing countries of South and Southeast Asia. Of course, there are also many plants which are among the world's most serious polluters. What explains such extreme interplant variation? This paper reviews evidence drawn from three empirical studies of plant-level abatement practices conducted 1992–1994. The analyses test the importance of plant characteristics, economic considerations and external pressure in determining environmental performance. The results consistently show that pollution intensity is negatively associated with scale, productive efficiency, and the use of new process technology. It is strongly and positively associated with public ownership, but foreign ownership has no significant effect once other plant characteristics are taken into account. Among external sources of pressure, community action, or informal regulation, emerges as a clear source of interplant differences in all three studies. The results suggest that local income and education are powerful predictors of the effectiveness of informal regulation. They also show that existing formal regulation has measurably beneficial effects, even when it is quite weakly developed.
Corneal reshaping by radio frequency current: numerical model studies

The cornea may be reshaped to correct for hyperopia by selective shrinkage of collagen in the stroma using radio frequency (RF) current from a needle electrode. Pulsed current is used to maximize therapeutic effect while minimizing radiating thermal damage. Finite difference numerical models of the electric fields and resulting thermal events were used to study the process parameters. The models were calibrated by comparison to histologic data using predicted and measured loss of birefringence in collagen as the standard of comparison.
Conformational characterization of a single-site mutant of murine epidermal growth factor (EGF) by 1H NMR provides evidence that leucine-47 is involved in the interactions with the EGF receptor

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a small protein containing 53 amino acids and three disulfide bonds. There is significant current interest in structure-function relationships in EGF and EGF-like proteins, including the homologous type-alpha transforming growth factors. The Leu-47 residue of murine EGF (mEGF) is one of several that are strongly conserved among the EGF-like growth factors, suggesting that it may contribute to the active site of mEGF. In several different binding assays, the activity of the mutant analog in which Leu-47 is replaced by Ser [( Ser47]mEGF) ranges from 8 to 18 times weaker than that of wild-type mEGF. The NMR data summarized in this paper demonstrate that the significant differences in the binding activities of wild-type and [Ser47]mEGF cannot be attributed to structural changes remote from the three-dimensional site of mutation. The only minor conformational changes that are indicated by these data involve side chains of residues proximal to Leu-47 in the three-dimensional structure. Therefore, Leu-47 and/or residues spatially adjacent to Leu-47 constitute part of the active site of mEGF.
Inner magnetospheric plasma pressure distribution and its local time asymmetry

[1] Distribution of plasma pressure in the inner magnetosphere for protons and oxygen ions is constructed using measurements from two particle instruments on AMPTE/CCE covering an energy range of ∼1 keV to 4 MeV. Data within the L shells from 2 to 9 in the equatorial region are sorted into low and high activity levels based on the Kp index. It is found that (1) the pressure peak of protons, the dominant contributor to the total plasma pressure typically, occurs at a lower L shell than that of oxygen ions at all local times, (2) proton pressure is generally higher in the dusk-midnight sector than in the post-midnight sector during high Kp, a feature reinforced by the expected local time asymmetry in the magnetic field strength, and (3) a minimum magnetic field region seems to exist at L ∼ 8 in the night sector during high Kp but is apparently absent during low Kp. These results suggest that the plasma pressure peak lies in the dusk-midnight sector during active periods, in contrast to the plasma pressure distribution inferred from energetic neutral atom observations during active times. Possible resolutions to this apparent discrepancy are suggested. This study also indicates that within L ∼ 9 a minimum magnetic field region does not develop during low Kp but appears at high Kp.
Editorial: Journal peer review in integrative medicine discipline

Abstract Manuscript reviewers are described as the “gatekeepers of science” because they play an important role in dissemination of scientific information. Their responsibility is particularly great toward emergent fields such as integrative medicine that conduct investigations in a new research territory. In this editorial, we briefly describe several pitfalls that can impede reviewers’ impartial judgment and that appear particularly important in regard to manuscripts concerning complementary and alternative medicine and integrative medicine. We suggest that increasing reviewers’ awareness of the pitfalls can improve fairness in the peer review process. The ultimate responsibilities rest on the journal editors to ensure impartiality in the peer review process.
Increased hemoglobin Alc in mothers of overweight babies

Hb Alc levels in diabetics are well correlated with their succesful control. These levels were studied on women who had normal oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT), but had delivered overweight (> 4500g) babies, and were compared to normal controls and to diabetic women controlled with oral antidiabetic agents or insulin. In total 117 women were studied. Women who had delivered newborns with normal weight had a mean Hb Alc of 8,01±0,19% on their 7th post partum day. Women who had delivered overweight babies had Hb Alc of 10,37±0,43% (p<0,001), although their OGTT were normal. Their insulin levels were higher than normal and there was a delay in achieving basal values. Diabetic non pregnant women succesfully treated with diet only, had Hb Alc levels of 10,75±0,62%; treated with oral drugs only 10,83±0,63%; pregnant women treated with insulin 13,31±1,27%. The determinations of Hb Alc in mothers with overweight babies may be a sensitive parameter for the early discovery of carbohydrate intolerance.
Web page marker: a web browsing support system based on marking and anchoring

In this paper, we propose a web browsing support system, called WPM, which provides marking and anchoring functions on ordinary web browsers. WPM users can mark words and phrases on web pages by using their browsers without any extra plug-ins like similar systems, and can anchor words to refer them later. WPM makes it possible to carry out marking to the existing Web page so that marking carried out to paper. By changing character decoration partially, the text is indicated by emphasis and improve readability. WPM is implemented using proxy agent. This system can be used in everyday browsing, without a user being conscious of a system by using a proxy.
Geological fullerenes: review and analysis

Abstract Fullerenes have been reported from numerous terrestrial and meteoritic sources, but only at low concentrations. The occurrences are associated with localized energetic events such as lightning, impacts of extraterrestrial objects, and wildfires. Great interest has also been generated by a series of papers that report noble gases with anomalous isotopic compositions encapsulated within fullerenes. In spite of all of the published work, many unresolved questions remain about the identity and formation of fullerenes in geological environments.
Quadriceps strength and functional capacity after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Patellar tendon autograft versus allograft

Harvesting the central third of the patellar tendon for autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is thought to compromise quadriceps strength and functional capacity. We compared objective measurements of quadriceps strength and functional capacity in athletes after patellar tendon autograft or allograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. We looked at 33 active male patients (mean age, 24.3 years) who had anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions 12 to 24 months earlier using patellar tendon autograft (N = 15) or allograft (N = 18) techniques. All patients underwent an intensive rehabilitation program. Quadriceps strength and power were assessed by measuring peak torque at 60 and 240 deg/sec, torque acceleration energy at 240 deg/sec, and the quadriceps index using a Cybex II isokinetic testing device. Functional capacity was evaluated based on the results of 3 specially designed functional performance tests and the hop test. Results revealed no significant difference between autograft and allograft groups with respect to any of these parameters. These findings indicate that harvesting the central third of the patellar tendon for autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction does not diminish quadriceps strength or functional capacity in highly active patients who have intensive rehabilitation. Thus, the recommendation to avoid patellar tendon autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction to preserve quadriceps strength and functional capacity may be unnecessary.
Side-Chain Oxysterols Modulate Cholesterol Accessibility through Membrane Remodeling

Side-chain oxysterols, such as 25-hydroxycholesterol (25-HC), are key regulators of cholesterol homeostasis. New evidence suggests that the alteration of membrane structure by 25-HC contributes to its regulatory effects. We have examined the role of oxysterol membrane effects on cholesterol accessibility within the membrane using perfringolysin O (PFO), a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin that selectively binds accessible cholesterol, as a sensor of membrane cholesterol accessibility. We show that 25-HC increases cholesterol accessibility in a manner dependent on the membrane lipid composition. Structural analysis of molecular dynamics simulations reveals that increased cholesterol accessibility is associated with membrane thinning, and that the effects of 25-HC on cholesterol accessibility are driven by these changes in membrane thickness. Further, we find that the 25-HC antagonist LY295427 (agisterol) abrogates the membrane effects of 25-HC in a nonenantioselective manner, suggesting that agisterol antagonizes the cholesterol-homeostatic effects of 25-HC indirectly through its membrane interactions. These studies demonstrate that oxysterols regulate cholesterol accessibility, and thus the availability of cholesterol to be sensed and transported throughout the cell, by modulating the membrane environment. This work provides new insights into how alterations in membrane structure can be used to relay cholesterol regulatory signals.
Perforation of Sandwich Panels with Honeycomb Cores by Hemispherical Nose Projectiles

Analytical models for the static and low-velocity perforation of composite sandwich panel with woven E-glass/epoxy prepreg facesheets and aluminum honeycomb core are developed. The analytical model...
Effect of off-white rice husk ash on strength, porosity, conductivity and corrosion resistance of white concrete

Abstract Rice husk ash (RHA) is one of the promising pozzolanic materials that can be blended with Portland cement for the production of durable concrete and the reduction of the environmental impact of the cement industry. Commercially available RHA contains 3% or more graphitic carbon which determines the dark pigmentation of the material. Recent studies have led to the production of carbon neutral rice ash named OWRHA (Off-White Rice Husk Ash), with no graphitic carbon, no crystalline SiO 2 and toxic metals, so legitimately considered environmental friendly. This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation on the strength, porosity, corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity of white concrete blended with OWRHA. The results show that the compression strength of the concrete increases with replacement level of OWRHA, while the porosity decreases. Accelerated corrosion tests demonstrate that the use of OWRHA increases the corrosion resistance at all levels of replacement. The results on mortal samples showed that also thermal conductivity and density decrease with the increase in OWRHA and with age. With the intention of reducing the carbon footprint in the cement industry, this study evidences encouraging results for the use of OWRHA in sustainable construction.
The Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptor Agonist BuTAC Mediates Antipsychotic-Like Effects via the M4 Subtype

The generation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) subtype-selective compounds has been challenging, requiring use of nonpharmacological approaches, such as genetically engineered animals, to deepen our understanding of the potential that members of the muscarinic receptor subtype family hold as therapeutic drug targets. The muscarinic receptor agonist 'BuTAC' was previously shown to exhibit efficacy in animal models of psychosis, although the particular receptor subtype(s) responsible for such activity was unclear. Here, we evaluate the in vitro functional agonist and antagonist activity of BuTAC using an assay that provides a direct measure of G protein activation. In addition, we employ the conditioned avoidance response paradigm, an in vivo model predictive of antipsychotic activity, and mouse genetic deletion models to investigate which presynaptic mAChR subtype mediates the antipsychotic-like effects of BuTAC. Our results show that, in vitro, BuTAC acts as a full agonist at the M2AChR and a partial agonist at the M1 and M4 receptors, with full antagonist activity at M3- and M5AChRs. In the mouse conditioned avoidance response (CAR) assay, BuTAC exhibits an atypical antipsychotic-like profile by selectively decreasing avoidance responses at doses that do not induce escape failures. CAR results using M2(-/-), M4(-/-), and M2/M4 (M2/M4(-/-)) mice found that the effects of BuTAC were near completely lost in M2/M4(-/-) double-knockout mice and potency of BuTAC was right-shifted in M4(-/-) as compared with wild-type and M2(-/-) mice. The M2/M4(-/-) mice showed no altered sensitivity to the antipsychotic effects of either haloperidol or clozapine, suggesting that these compounds mediate their actions in CAR via a non-mAChR-mediated mechanism. These data support a role for the M4AChR subtype in mediating the antipsychotic-like activity of BuTAC and implicate M4AChR agonism as a potential novel therapeutic mechanism for ameliorating symptoms associated with schizophrenia.
Pulmonary vascular pressures of Thoroughbreds increase rapidly and to a higher level with rapid onset of high-intensity exercise than slow onset

Previous studies of pulmonary vascular pressures have utilised gradual incremental step exercise protocols, but in competitive racing at the track, horses perform rapid acceleration high-intensity exercise. The rate of rise in pulmonary vascular pressures under conditions of quick onset high-intensity exercise is unknown. Catheter mounted manometers, whose in vivo signals were matched with pressure signals obtained via transducers connected to fluid-filled lumens from same cardiovascular sites, were used to compare right heart and pulmonary vascular pressures in 8 healthy Thoroughbreds performing 2 separate exercise protocols on a high speed treadmill (gradually incremental vs. rapid acceleration exercise protocol where the belt speed was raised from 8 m/s to 15 m/s in 8 s). Heart rate, right atrial and pulmonary vascular pressures at rest were similar for the 2 protocols. Rapid acceleration of horses from 8 to 15 m/s was attended by an equally rapid escalation in the right heart and pulmonary vascular pressures such that these pressures reached their zenith as belt speed approached 15 m/s. Although exercise at 15 m/s resulted in similar heart rate in the 2 protocols, the mean +/- s.e. values of mean right atrial pressure, mean pulmonary artery pressure, mean pulmonary artery wedge pressure and mean pulmonary capillary pressure (91.5 +/- 3.9 mmHg) in the rapid acceleration exercise were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than respective values at 15 m/s in the gradual incremental step exercise protocol.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Remembering “txt” but not “text”: The effect of context and lexicality on memory for text message abbreviations

Text messages often contain abbreviations allowing for an efficient manner to quickly convey content. Although text abbreviations typically contain fewer letters than words, research has demonstrated that they are processed more slowly. Text abbreviations are lexically unique compared to their fully spelled counterparts. This study examined the nature of episodic memory representations for text abbreviations and how top-down contextual information influences the encoding of text abbreviations. In this experiment, participants studied sentences that contained different types of abbreviations: deletions (e.g., tmrw), substitutions (e.g., 2mrw) or “pseudo” abbreviations (e.g., toorow). The sentences were presented within a conversational context or without context. In a recognition memory test, participants saw sentences from the study task that contained either the same abbreviation or a different type of abbreviation. Results revealed that conversational context increased both hits and false recognition rates in the memory test. False recognition rates were generally higher for abbreviation types that shared more surface feature overlap and lower for those that shared less surface feature overlap. The findings suggest text abbreviations have distinct episodic memory representations that incorporate their unique surface feature information and are closely associated to fully spelled lexical memory representations.
THE ECHO MULTI-RESPONSE METHOD FOR SURVEYING VALUE AND INFLUENCE PATTERNS IN GROUPS

Sztmn~ary.-A technique originated by Bavelas was modified in 2 ways: (a) the responses of 91 Ss (female clerical employees) were classified by 8 other Ss rather rhan by E, and (b) a resultant list of salient values was judged by 43 new Ss against a lisc generated by an expert (a personnel director). Alternate instructions to the judges favored values "important to" (a) employees and (b) the company; as hyporhes~zed, Ss preferred the employee list under the employee condition and no preference was observed under the company condition. E concludes the company may be overlooking employee needs for pleasant personal relations and interest in the work. Methodological and theoretical questions are listed for later study. A technique for studying patterns of social values in relation to soluces of reinforcement was introduced by Bavelas (1942), who proposed its application to a variety of research problems. In its simplest form, the technique consisted of asking the respondent niro questions: "What is a good thing that a person like you could do and could be praised for doing? Who would do the praising?" The questions were repeated several times, eliciting a variety of responses. A second set of questions involving a "bad thing" for which someone could be "scolded" was applied in the same way. The resulting responses were thought to reflect salient social values and their respective sources of reinforcement, according to the subjective schemata of group members. In a study of Mennonite and non-Mennonite school children, Kalhorn ( 1944) described the Bavelas technique in detail and reported finding intergroup differences that fillfilled the expectations of knowledgeable observers of the Mennonite culture. Obedience, religion, and intensive work were values significantly more salient in the Mennonite than in the non-Mennonite group; the reverse was true of cleanliness and individual achievement. The Mennonite children displayed a generalized concept of badness chat was not salient among the non-Mennonite children. Kalhorn also found differences in subjective sources of reinforcement. The Mennonites were significantly more concerned about approval from the Deity rhan were the non-Mennonites; the reverse was true of approval from peers. As expected, many values and sources were similarly salient in the two groups. Midwestern white children and children of ten American Indian communi'The research reported herein is the result of the initial independent efforts of General Research Cor~oration and subsequent work by General Research Cor~oration under the sponsorship df the Advanced ~esearch projects Agency, Project AGI~E, Deparment of Defense.
Rearrangement of side-chains in a Zif268 mutant highlights the complexities of zinc finger-DNA recognition

Structural and biochemical studies of Cys(2)His(2) zinc finger proteins initially led several groups to propose a "recognition code" involving a simple set of rules relating key amino acid residues in the zinc finger protein to bases in its DNA site. One recent study from our group, involving geometric analysis of protein-DNA interactions, has discussed limitations of this idea and has shown how the spatial relationship between the polypeptide backbone and the DNA helps to determine what contacts are possible at any given position in a protein-DNA complex. Here we report a study of a zinc finger variant that highlights yet another source of complexity inherent in protein-DNA recognition. In particular, we find that mutations can cause key side-chains to rearrange at the protein-DNA interface without fundamental changes in the spatial relationship between the polypeptide backbone and the DNA. This is clear from a simple analysis of the binding site preferences and co-crystal structures for the Asp20-->Ala point mutant of Zif268. This point mutation in finger one changes the specificity of the protein from GCG TGG GCG to GCG TGG GC(G/T), and we have solved crystal structures of the D20A mutant bound to both types of sites. The structure of the D20A mutant bound to the GCG site reveals that contacts from key residues in the recognition helix are coupled in complex ways. The structure of the complex with the GCT site also shows an important new water molecule at the protein-DNA interface. These side-chain/side-chain interactions, and resultant changes in hydration at the interface, affect binding specificity in ways that cannot be predicted either from a simple recognition code or from analysis of spatial relationships at the protein-DNA interface. Accurate computer modeling of protein-DNA interfaces remains a challenging problem and will require systematic strategies for modeling side-chain rearrangements and change in hydration.
Economic modeling of woody biomass utilization for bioenergy and its application in central Appalachia, USA

A mixed integer programming model was developed to estimate the delivered cost of woody biomass, including the costs associated with stumpage, bundling (if any), extraction, storage, loading and ha...
Photodegradation of poly(methyl methacrylate) in solution and the effect of added solutes

Poly(methyl methacrylate) has been photolyzed with 2537 A. radiation in dioxane and in methylene chloride at about 25°C. in the presence and absence of air. In degassed solutions, quantum yields for random scission are only slightly affected by either intensity or polymer concentration. Oxygen is an apparent inhibitor for photodegradation. The inhibiting and sensitizing effects of a variety of added solutes, including aromatic hydrocarbons, aliphatic dienes, and ketones were investigated; the behavior is similar whether or not oxygen is present. The results are best explained on the basis of an electronic energy transfer mechanism involving the lowest excited triplet levels of the polymer and the added solutes.
Perineal Template Interstitial Brachytherapy Salvage for Recurrent Endometrial Adenocarcinoma Metastatic to the Vagina

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the use of interstitial brachytherapy salvage of recurrent endometrial adenocarcinoma metastatic to the vagina. Methods: From September 1989 to February 1995, 15 patients with locally recurrent endometrial adenocarcinoma were treated with perineal template interstitial irradiation with low-dose-rate brachytherapy 192 Ir/ 137 Cs. Five of the 7 previously unirradiated patients received pelvic external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) of 45–50 Gy, with standard fractionation followed by an interstitial brachytherapy boost dose of 30 Gy (range 25 to 35 Gy). The other 2 patients received only brachytherapy of 40 Gy (palliative) and 50 Gy. Eight previously irradiated patients received only brachytherapy of 50 to 55 Gy. Results: After a median follow-up of 47 months (range 14–81), the actuarial local control rate was 66.6%. The local control rate for patients treated with interstitial irradiation only was 64.3% and the local control rate for patients treated with interstitial irradiation + EBRT was 100%. Distant metastases occurred in 30.7% of the patients. Actuarial overall and disease-specific 5-year survival were 42.3 and 67.5%, respectively. Toxicity has been minimal, with 6 patients complaining of vaginal/rectal (RTOG) grade 1–3 complications (5 patients grade 1–2, 1 patient grade 3). Conclusions: These results suggest that perineal template interstitial irradiation (if possible with supplementary EBRT) is an effective alternative to radical or exenterative pelvic surgery for locally recurrent endometrial cancer. Excellent survival and local control rates can be achieved with low morbidity, especially if EBRT is added.
The Risk of Acute Kidney Injury With Co-Occurrence of Anemia and Hypotension During Cardiopulmonary Bypass Relative to Anemia Alone

Background Postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common serious consequence of cardiac surgery. One recent study found higher AKI rates when anemia and hypotension occurred during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) relative to anemia alone. To revalidate this post hoc observation we analyzed detailed data from a large cardiac surgery cohort. Methods Patient, procedural, and outcome data were collected for nonemergent aortocoronary bypass and valve surgeries between July 2001 and September 2012. The occurrence of AKI (as defined by the Acute Kidney Injury Network criteria) was analyzed relative to known renal risk factors, and CPB hematocrit and blood pressure determinations in univariate and multivariable linear regression analyses. Results In our 3,963-patient cohort, we did not observe different AKI rates with the co-occurrence of anemia and hypotension relative to anemia alone (41.6% versus 44.3%; p = 0.39). Secondary analyses using linear definitions for AKI, CPB anemia, and hypotensive burden, and assessing for coincident timing also did not demonstrate significant association of anemia and hypotension with AKI risk relative to anemia alone. Conclusions In a large cohort of cardiac surgery patients, we did not confirm any association of cardiac surgery–related AKI risk with the co-occurrence of hypotension and anemia during CPB relative to anemia alone. More detailed analyses also failed to support an anemia-hypotension interaction. Additional studies are required to better understand the relationship among anemia, hypotension during CPB, and postoperative AKI, but existing evidence is insufficient to support changes in clinical practice.
Mathematical theory of slow light optical solitons

This paper studies the dynamics of slow light optical solitons from a mathematical point of view. It is mathematically proved that optical solitons, with a proper choice of time-dependent coefficients of dispersion and nonlinearity, can be made to slow down, and in the limiting case, to zero velocity. The types of nonlinearity that are studied in this paper are the Kerr law, power law, parabolic law, dual-power law and log law. Both bright and dark solitons are studied.
From race matching to transracial adoption: race and the changing discourse of US adoption

Changes in US society have found their way into the adoption arena, resulting in new policies and participants in the adoption process and altering the discourse of adoption. Although the discourse of modern adoption has shifted, the legacy of race in adoption remains. Drawing on popular adoption literature, information in the public domain, and discussions in an adoption forum, this paper argues that despite efforts at reconstruction, racial inequalities are often reified in current adoption discourse, implemented through the very practices designed to help children. Interpreted both as a device for categorization and as discursive formation, the language of adoption continues to empower some groups and disempower others. The Internet presents a zone of possibility for reconstructing relations of power in adoption via symbolic and linguistic resources as asymmetries between adoption participants are contested and reconstructed.
Development and Validation of 4 Different Rat Models of Uncontrolled Hemorrhage

Importance Hemorrhage is the leading cause of death in military trauma and second leading cause of death in civilian trauma. Although many well-established animal models of hemorrhage exist in the trauma and anticoagulant literature, few focus on directly quantitating blood loss. Objective To establish and validate a reproducible rodent model of uncontrolled hemorrhage to serve as the foundation for developing therapies for noncompressible torso trauma. Design, Settings, and Subjects We developed and evaluated 4 different hemorrhage models using male Sprague-Dawley rats (6 rats/model), aged 10 to 14 weeks and weighing 330 to 460 g, at the Department of Surgery, Northwestern University. Interventions We used tail-cut (4 cm), liver punch biopsy (12 mm), liver laceration (3.0 × 1.5 cm), and spleen transection models. All animals underwent invasive hemodynamic monitoring. Main Outcomes and Measures Blood loss, expressed as a percentage of total blood volume (TBV), mean arterial pressure, and heart rate, which were recorded at 2- to 5-minute intervals. Results The tail-cut model resulted in a mean (SD) TBV loss of 15.4% (6.0%) with hemodynamics consistent with class I hemorrhagic shock. The liver punch biopsy model resulted in a mean (SD) TBV loss of 16.7% (3.3%) with hemodynamics consistent with class I hemorrhagic shock. The liver laceration model resulted in a mean (SD) TBV loss of 19.8% (3.0%) with hemodynamics consistent with class II hemorrhagic shock. The spleen transection model resulted in the greatest blood loss ( P Conclusions and Relevance We established and validated the reproducibility of 4 different rat models of uncontrolled hemorrhage. These models provide a foundation to design novel nonsurgical therapies to control hemorrhage, and the different degrees of hemorrhagic shock produced from these models allow for flexibility in experimental design.
Bellas por naturaleza : Mapping national identity on US Colombian beauty queens

Each year, Colombia hosts more than 300 beauty pageants at the local, regional and national levels. Aside from a form of entertainment, pageants have become an expression of cultural identity, regional pride, as well as a distraction from civil and political tensions. The beauty pageant has also become a source of national and cultural identification for diasporic Colombians. This essay examines Concurso Senorita de Independencia de Colombia, a beauty pageant that celebrates Colombia’s Independence Day in Houston, TX. Through a close reading of participants’ regional garb and discourses, I discuss how Colombian identities are mapped on to US colombianas and how they are charged with the role of “international advocates” for an improved image of Colombia.
Converting on-line bilingual dictionaries from human-readable to machine-readable form

We describe a language called ABET that allows rapid conversion of on-line human-readable bilingual dictionaries to machine-readable form.
Faith and History: Reflections on the Work of the ASCH

Robert Greenleaf, in his classic book Servant Leadership, makes the argument that in earlier eras it was possible to make a difference in society as an individual. He writes, “Whereas, until recently, caring was largely person to person, now most of it is mediated through institutions—often large, complex, powerful, impersonal, not always competent, sometimes corrupt [institutions]. If a better society is to be built, one that is more just and more loving, one that provides greater creative opportunity for its people, then the most open course is to raise both the capacity to serve and the very performance as servant of existing major institutions by new regenerative forces operating within them.” He goes on to make the case that “trustees” have a key role in creating and maintaining what he calls “servant institutions.”