cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An improved perturbation theory and van der Waals one-fluid theory of binary fluid mixtures Part 2. Phase equilibria

Abstract In this paper, we have tested how accurately our improved form of perturbation theory and van der Waals one-fluid theory can predict recent simulation results for vapor/liquid, liquid/liquid and gas/gas equilibria of highly nonideal binary mixtures.In these mixtures, size and energy parameters of the like as well as unlike components differ significantly. Comparisons of theoretical predictions with simulation results for vapor/liquid and liquid/liquid equilibria show a very good performance of perturbation theory in different nonideal conditions. Prediction of gas/gas equilibria of mixtures with large unlike size parameter is only qualitative. Van der Waals one-fluid theory is successful in predicting vapor/liquid equilibria of moderately nonideal mixtures only. It becomes less reliable in describing liquid/liquid and gas/gas equilibria of highly nonideal mixtures.
Electron capture and excitation studied by state-resolved KLL Auger measurement in 0.25−2 MeV/u F7+(1s21S, 1s2s3S) + H2/He collisions

Abstract State-resolved KLL Auger cross sections were measured for collisions of 0.25−2 MeV/u F7+(1s21S, 1s2s3S) with H2 and He targets at 0°. The mechanisms for forming the 1s 2/2/' and 2 s 2 p 2S+1 L Auger states were identified to be single electron capture, 1s → 2p excitation, and nonresonant and resonant transfer excitation (RTE) by the 1s21S ground or 1s2s3S metastable states of the incoming projectile ions. The cross sections for the formation of the doubly excited states were extracted and compared with theory. In particular, the 1s2s2p4P state showed a projectile energy dependence of EP−n(n = 4.4 ± 0.3 for He and 5.4 ± 0.3 for H2 targets) in electron capture. The 1s2p22D state exhibited a strong RTE signature from the ground state. The 2s2p3P state produced by excitation of the metastable beam component showed a fair agreement with a PWBA calculation.
FOLLOW-UP OF TERM INFANTS AT RISK FOR SIDS

Home monitoring did not interfere in the developmental status of a group of term infants at risk for SIDS. Eleven infants (BW 3.50±0.80kg) were managed on home monitors due to the presence of specific risk factors (near miss, sibling of SIDS apnea). Evaluation included ventilatory response studies to CO2 with a computerized CO2 waveform analyzer. Five infants had abnormal (13.7±4 mm/kg/min/mmHg BTPS) and six normal (36.3±15.8 mm/kg/min/mmHg BTPS) responses (P 0.05). Follow up examinations occurred at 6 months postnatal age with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development. All infants had normal MDI and PDI. Comparing the groups with normal and abnormal ventilatory responses, we noted similar MDI (119±12 vs. 124±14), PDI (115±10 vs. 110±18), and absolute MDI-PDI differences (16±11 vs. 14±8). No correlations could be demonstrated between slope and any of the developmental factors. Home monitoring allows for the normal development of high risk infants. Abnormalities demonstrated early in the control of ventilation did not affect outcome in these infants.
A political economy of Asian sex tourism

Abstract Sex represents an important tourism attraction for many developing countries. Like all markets, however, sex tourism is both an economic and political phenomenon. It cannot exist without sources of demand, where these types of transactions are considered to be socially and politically legitimate. In the case of Japanese sex tourism to Thailand, the market has been rocked by the development of greater women's rights in Japan. This has shifted the economic constraints on Thai policymakers, who are now confronted with a lucrative demand source that is increasingly avoiding sex destinations. As social movements change Japanese consumer choices and investment strategies, they affect genderized notions of the masculine “high politics” of international finance and economic development.
Novel Method for Concentrating and Drying Polymeric Nanoparticles: Hydrogen Bonding Coacervate Precipitation

Nanoparticles have significant potential in therapeutic applications to improve the bioavailability and efficacy of active drug compounds. However, the retention of nanometer sizes during concentrating or drying steps presents a significant problem. We report on a new concentrating and drying process for poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) stabilized nanoparticles, which relies upon the unique pH sensitive hydrogen bonding interaction between PEG and polyacid species. In the hydrogen bonding coacervate precipitation (HBCP) process, PEG protected nanoparticles rapidly aggregate into an easily filterable precipitate upon the addition various polyacids. When the resulting solid is neutralized, the ionization of the acid groups eliminates the hydrogen bonded structure and the approximately 100 nm particles redisperse back to within 10% of their original size when poly(acrylic acid) and citric acid are used and 45% when poly(aspartic acid) is used. While polyacid concentrations of 1-5 wt % were used to form the precipitates, the incorporation of the acid into the PEG layer is approximately 1:1 (acid residue):(ethylene oxide unit) in the final dried precipitate. The redispersion of dried beta-carotene nanoparticles protected with PEG-b-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) polymers dried by HBCP was compared with the redispersion of particles dried by freeze-drying with sucrose as a cryprotectant, spray freeze-drying, and normal drying. Freeze-drying with 0, 2, and 12 wt % sucrose solutions resulted in size increases of 350%, 50%, and 6%, respectively. Spray freeze-drying resulted in particles with increased sizes of 50%, but no cryoprotectant and only moderate redispersion energy was required. Conventional drying resulted in solids that could not be redispersed back to nanometer size. The new HBCP process offers a promising and efficient way to concentrate or convert nanoparticle dispersions into a stable dry powder form.
Chemical Routes for Production of Transition-Metal Phosphides on the Nanoscale: Implications for Advanced Magnetic and Catalytic Materials

Nanoparticulate transition-metal phosphides remain an unexplored, though emerging area of interest on the materials landscape, due principally to their promising magnetic and catalytic properties. This review describes synthetic strategies for the formation of both supported and unsupported transition-metal phosphide nanoparticles, provides a summary of their relevant magnetic and catalytic properties, and indicates new directions for exploration.
Psychological management of insomnia: A clinical replication series with 100 patients

This study reports on a clinical replications series of 100 patients who presented for insomnia treatment to a university hospital sleep disorders clinic. Treatment consisted of a short-term, structured, and multifaceted intervention combining behavioral, cognitive, educational, and sleep medication withdrawal components. The results from daily sleep diaries showed that patients were sleeping more efficiently after treatment, as evidenced by significant reductions of sleep onset latency, wake after sleep onset, and early morning awakening. The magnitude of improvement obtained on these measures (range=42%–50%) was comparable to those previously obtained in controlled studies of patients with insomnia solicited from the community. Significant reductions in usage of sleep aids were also noted. Despite initial differences in symptom severity, treatment response was comparable across the three most common insomnia subtypes: psychophysiological, drug-dependent, and insomnia associated with psychopathology. These findings suggest that cognitive-behavior therapy is effective in the clinical management of sleep disturbances in a heterogeneous group of insomnia sufferers presenting to a sleep clinic.
Application of space storable injector and chamber design criteria to spacecraft engine development.

Oxygen difluoride-diborane propellant injector and chamber design criteria applied to unmanned spacecraft rocket engine development
Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice Deficient in Bid: Effects on Histopathology and Functional Outcome

Bid is a proapoptotic member of the Bcl-2 family that mediates cell death by caspase-dependent and -independent pathways. We tested mice genetically deficient in Bid in a controlled cortical impact (CCI) model to examine the hypothesis that Bid contributes to cell death and functional outcome after traumatic brain injury. After CCI, truncated Bid (15 kDa) was robustly detected in cortical brain homogenates of wild-type mice. Bid-/- mice had decreased numbers of cortical cells with acute plasmalemma injury at 6 h (wild type (WT), 1721+/-124; Bid-/-, 1173+/-129 cells/ x 200 field; P<0.01), decreased numbers of cells expressing cleaved caspase-3 in the dentate gyrus at 48 h (WT, 113+/-15; Bid-/-, 65+/-9 cells/ x 200 field; P<0.05), and reduced lesion volume at 12 days (Bid-/-, 5.9+/-0.4 mm(3); WT, 8.4+/-0.4 mm(3); P<0.001), but did not differ from WT mice at later times after injury regarding lesion size (30 days) or brain tissue atrophy (40 days). Compared with naive mice, injured mice in both groups performed significantly worse on motor and Morris water maze (MWM) tests; however, mice deficient in Bid did not differ from WT in postinjury motor and MWM performance. The data show that Bid deficiency decreases early posttraumatic brain cell death and tissue damage, but does not reduce functional outcome deficits after CCI in mice.
Improper Trunk Rotation Sequence Is Associated With Increased Maximal Shoulder External Rotation Angle and Shoulder Joint Force in High School Baseball Pitchers

Background:In a properly coordinated throwing motion, peak pelvic rotation velocity is reached before peak upper torso rotation velocity, so that angular momentum can be transferred effectively from the proximal (pelvis) to distal (upper torso) segment. However, the effects of trunk rotation sequence on pitching biomechanics and performance have not been investigated.Purpose:The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of trunk rotation sequence on ball speed and on upper extremity biomechanics that are linked to injuries in high school baseball pitchers. The hypothesis was that pitchers with improper trunk rotation sequence would demonstrate lower ball velocity and greater stress to the joint.Study Design:Descriptive laboratory study.Methods:Three-dimensional pitching kinematics data were captured from 72 high school pitchers. Subjects were considered to have proper or improper trunk rotation sequences when the peak pelvic rotation velocity was reached either before or after the peak upper torso ...
Doctor slowdown: Effects on the population of Los Angeles county

Abstract During the first 35 days of 1976, doctors in Los Angeles County withheld their services, principally for non-emergency surgery, in reaction to escalating premiums for malpractice insurance. To assess the impacts of this action, studies were made along 3 lines (1) a survey of 1000 households to determine the effects on access of people to medical care, (2) collection of data on utilization and finances of a sample of 17 general hospitals, and (3) determination of the county total death rates during and after the slowdown compared with equivalent weeks in the previous 5 years. It was found that only a small percentage of people were inconvenienced by the withdrawal of elective surgical services (since other types of care were evidently continuedl. In the hospitals, there was a decline in occupancy, loss of revenue, and many workers laid off. County mortality rates declined steadily during the slowdown, rising abruptly to a peak in the first week that elective surgery was resumed, and then levelling off to usual rates.
Combined effects of ozone and nitrogen dioxide on respiratory function in man

Ten young adult males were exposed to either filtered air or 0.50 ppm ozone plus 0.50 ppm NO2 in filtered air under four environmental conditions: 25 °C, 45% rh; 30 °C, 85% rh; 35 °C, 40% rh; and 40 °C, 50% rh. There were eight 2-hour exposures per subject. After 1 hour of sitting exposure the subjects exercised for 30 minutes (35–40% predicted maximum capacity) which increased ventilatory exchange to approximately 40 L/min (BTPS). Pulmonary function tests were performed before, during, and after exposure. Metabolism and ventilation were determined during the last 15 minutes of exercise. A symptom questionnaire was completed at the termination of each exposure following reexamination by a physician. There was a decrease in vital capacity, inspiratory capacity, and several flow-related measures of lung function during exposure. The response to exposure to the combined pollutants (O3 and NO2) was similar to that observed in ozone exposures alone. No synergism was observed.
Characterizing the Effect of 319 Aluminum Microstructure on Machinability: Part 1 — Model Development

This two-part paper is directed at the development of a machining force model that addresses key microstructural features of 319 Aluminum. In Part 1 of this paper, a machining force model is presented that incorporates microstructural effects. Secondary Dendrite Arm Spacing (SDAS) is identified as a significant microstructure feature of 319 aluminum in terms of machinability, and the SDAS is related to the solidification rate. A new material constitutive relationship that incorporates SDAS microstructure effects is proposed. In Part 2 of this paper, the results from material tests and machining experiments are presented. A new methodology for estimating parameters within the material constitutive model is described, and force model predictions are compared with the results from machining tests. The comparison reveals an excellent agreement between measured and predicted forces.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Kleene Algebra withTests and Commutativity Conditions

We give an equational proof, using Kleene algebra with tests and commutativity conditions, of the following classical result: every while program can be simulated by a while program with at most one while loop. The proof illustrates the use of Kleene algebra with extra conditions in program equivalence proofs. We also show, using a construction of Cohen, that the universal Horn theory of *-continuous Kleene algebras is not finitely axiomatizable.
Elements analysis of infant milk formula by ICP-OES: a comparison of pretreatment methods

Sample pretreatments are critical steps for achieving true and precise results in element analysis for infant milk formula. In this study, we made a comparative study of four pretreatment methods: dry ashing (DA), wet ashing (WA), microwave ashing (MA) and slurry dispersion analysis. Nine elements (Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P and Zn) were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Infant formula (GBW08509) with certified values was used for assessment of trueness and precision. The data showed that all relative standard deviations (RSD) of the observed values were <15 %. In contrast to other pretreatment, results for MA had the lowest RSD (≤5 %) for all the elements. For Cu and Mn, there was no significant difference between measurement results and certified values in four pretreatments. But, after DA and WA the results for Ca, K, Na, P and Zn differed significantly from the certified values.
Ab-initio LDA calculations of the mean Coulomb potential V0 in slabs of crystalline Si, Ge and MgO

The Full Potential Linearized Augmented Plane-Wave (FLAPW) method has been used in the LDA to calculate values of the mean inner Coulomb potential V 0 for Si, Ge and MgO. These values are compared with recent measurements by electron holography. The supercell calculations are performed for crystal slabs, so that the effects of different crystal orientations and surface structures on V 0 can be evaluated. The extent of the fringing potential outside a thin crystal (important for chemical reactions) is also estimated, and this is shown to influence the reference wave in holography experiments. The case of polar crystals and ferroelectrics is discussed briefly. The values published here are needed for electron diffraction studies of bonding and for work aimed at mapping internal fields in semiconductors by electron holography.
Oscillation in the activities of MEK/ERK1/2 during cardiopulmonary bypass in pigs.

Background. Because cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is associated with edema and vasoreactive dysfunction and ERK1/2 pathway is involved in vascular contractility and permeability, a time course study was performed to monitor MEK/ERK1/2/Elk-1 activities during CPB. Methods. Pigs were subjected to normothermic CPB for 90 minutes followed by post-CPB perfusion for 180 minutes. Atrial myocardium was sampled before CPB, 5 minutes after CPB onset, 5 minutes after weaning from CPB, and at the end of post-CPB. Skeletal muscle and mesenteric vessels samples were harvested before CPB, 5 minutes after CPB institution, and every 30 minutes thereafter to the end of post-CPB. Samples were analyzed by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence microscopy with the use of specific antibodies against active (phosphorylated) forms of ERK1/2, MEK1/2, and Elk-1. Results. Pigs that were subjected to CPB showed an increase in phospho-ERK1/2 after 30 minutes of CPB, followed by a decrease after 90 minutes. Another phosphorylation peak was observed 30 to 60 minutes of post-CPB, followed by a decrease to below baseline at the end of reperfusion. MEK1/2 and Elk-1 activation profiles paralleled ERK1/2 activity peaks. Control samples showed no significant increase above basal levels. Conclusions. Activation of MEK/ERK1/2/Elk-1 pathways closely follows major CPB surgical manipulations (institution and termination) and could be related to morbidity during and after CPB. (Surgery 2001;130:182-91.)
Upper Bounds and Saint-Venant’s Principle for Incompressible Potential-Flow Fields

An upper-bound approach to Saint-Venant’s principle is presented for incompressible potential-flow fields. Upper bounds for the velocity and its potential are found for the flow in a rectangular channel and in an axially symmetric cylindrical channel. It is found that any deviation in velocity distribution at the entrance of the channel which does not change the net flow attenuates to a negligible quantity beyond a section which is at a distance of two channel widths from the entrance.
Storage of Phytoseiulus persimilis for aerial release (Acari: Phytoseiidae).

Abstract Studies were conducted on the mobility and survival of Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot (Acari: Phytoseiidae) after short-term refrigerated storage in a simulated aerial delivery system. Storage of P. persimilis was significantly affected by exposure to temperatures of 1.7 degrees, 7.2 degress, 12.8 degrees and 18.3 degrees C, and when stored for 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 hr. Loss of predators from the simulated hopper was reduced by decreasing the storage time and temperature. The density of predators in the release system's simulated hopper was greatest in the upper one-third of the hopper.
Statins attenuate sepsis.

Hypothesis If (1) 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme reductase inhibitors (statins) block the rate-limiting step in cholesterol synthesis and promote the expression of low-density lipoprotein receptors, (2) “Gram-negative sepsis” results from an abundant systemic response to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (endotoxin), (3) triglyceride-rich lipoproteins can bind endotoxin and low-density lipoprotein receptors enhance the uptake of both of these molecules, and (4) low-density lipoprotein receptor internalization of lipoproteins and endotoxin co-opts a common transcriptional regulatory system (NF-κB) that results in reduced cell vulnerability to inflammation, then statins, in addition to their lipid-lowering capacity, enhance endotoxin clearance from the circulation and attenuate the septic response.
Some Phrygian Plant and Insect Remains from Kerkenes Dağ, Central Anatolia (Turkey)

During the 1996 and 2000 seasons of excavation at Kerkenes Dag, a large single‐period Phrygian mountain‐top city located in central Turkey, a small assemblage of archaeobotanical remains and an insect were recovered from two specific archaeological contexts dated to the 540s B.C. This report documents a well‐cleaned Triticum durum / aestivum grain cache retrieved from a baking area, along with hand‐picked remains of Cornus mas , Cerasus cf. avium , and a Brachycerus sp. weevil .
Complement receptors: Specific detection by molecular complexes

Abstract Immune complexes of BSA-anti BSA (IgG F(ab′)2) will activate human complement by the alternate pathway. The C3 bound to these complexes binds to human peripheral blood mononuclear cells which bear complement receptors. This interaction is visualized by fluoresceinated antigen (BSA-FITC) or fluorescein conjugated antisera directed at the C3 component of complement. The assay appears to be more sensitive than the usual IgMEAC rosette technique and correlates well with the rosette method.
The activity pattern of phrenic motoneurons during the aspiration reflex: an intracellular study

Abstract Membrane potential trajectories and discharge characteristics were measured intracellularly in 29 phrenic motoneurons of anesthetized, paralyzed and artificially ventilated cats during hypercapnic respiration and the aspiration reflex. Fifteen ‘active’ cells discharged spontaneously during inspiration, and the remaining 14 ‘quiescent’ cells exhibited no discharge in spite of strong central respiratory drive. The mean membrane potential of the quiescent cells during inspiration (−62 ± 4 mV) was significantly lower than the threshold level determined for the active cells (−52 ± 4 mV). The mean axonal conduction velocity was slower for the active (60.4 ± 8.7 m/s) than quiescent cells (67.4 ± 6.9 m/s). All phrenic motoneurons discharged during the aspiration reflex with maximum instantaneous frequencies ranging from 6 to 357 Hz. No differences were found for the maximum discharge frequency during the reflex between the active and quiescent cells. Although there were differences in the slopes of the depolarization during inspiration between the groups of cells, no such difference existed in the slopes during the aspiration reflex. The threshold level for the first spike during the reflex was the same as that during inspiration but the level for successive spikes became progressively less negative while spike amplitude decreased and duration increased. Stimulation of the nasopharynx to elicit the aspiration reflex was found to alter the timing of the subsequent respiratory cycles.
Monosilylphosphine formation by rapid silylene insertion in the IR photochemistry of SiH4PH3 mixtures

Abstract Monosilylphosphine is a major product of the IR multiphoton-induced decomposition of SiH4PH3 mixtures carried out in such a way that only SiH4 absorbs IR radiation from a pulse CO2 laser. The reaction forming monosilylphosphine is that of a very rapid insertion of silylene into a PH bond of PH3, a process occurring with a rate coefficient of 8.8 × 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 at room temperature. Monosilylphosphine is not stable in the presence of large excesses of SiH4 and PH3 and decomposes to unidentified products at ambient temperature in a pseudo-first-order reaction.
The structure of the human adrenal cortex.

THERE is no other organ which shows greater specific differences in structure than the adrenal cortex. Observations of recent date (Gruenwald, 1942; Gruenwald and Konikov, 1944 and Elias, 1948) have shown that these differences are so striking that identification of a species on the basis of its adrenal histology is very easy. The object of this paper is to attempt to clarify the architecture of the adrenal cortex in our own species. Knowledge of the structure of our own adrenal cortex is especially important, because we must know in which way we differ from those animals which are used for experimentation
A Model for 4-Aminopyridine Action on K Channels: Similarities to Tetraethylammonium Ion Action

We present a model for the action of 4-aminopyridine (4AP) on K channels. The model is closely based on the gating current studies of the preceding paper and has been extended to account for ionic current data in the literature. We propose that 4AP, like tetraethylammonium ion and other quaternary ammonium ions, enters and leaves the channel only when the activation gate is open, a proposal that is strongly supported by the literature. Once in the open channel, 4AP's major action is to bias the activation gate toward the closed conformation by approximately the energy of a hydrogen bond. S4 segment movement, as reflected in gating currents, is almost normal for a 4AP-occupied channel; only the final opening transition is affected. The model is qualitatively the same as the one used for many years to explain the action of quaternary ammonium ions.
Cost-effectiveness of treatment of early stage endometrial cancer.

Abstract Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine the average life-years gained and cost per life-year gained in treatment of early endometrial cancer. Methods. We performed a decision analysis using statistical models for survival after treatment for Stage I endometrial cancer. Estimates for survival probabilities without treatment, with surgery alone, and with surgery and radiation were derived from the literature. Charges and costs of treatment were estimated based on data from our institution. We calculated the average number of life-years gained and the cost per life-year gained of various treatment options based on these estimates. Sensitivity analyses were performed to determine the effect of uncertainty about parameter estimates on the results derived from our model. Results. Based on the assumptions of our model, most of the life-years gained in treatment of early endometrial cancer are attributable to hysterectomy, with a very low associated cost. For the "average" woman with endometrial cancer, about 10 life-years are gained from hysterectomy at a cost of $1000 per life-year gained, whereas adjuvant radiation yields on average 1 year of life gained at $4000 per life-year gained. Both life-years gained and cost are dramatically affected by age at diagnosis and to a lesser extent by histologic grade and comorbid medical conditions. Conclusions. This analysis suggests that the use of hysterectomy and adjuvant radiation in treatment of early endometrial cancer is a worthwhile use of health care resources. More sophisticated models may help determine the cost-effectiveness of various treatment strategies in specific subgroups of patients.
Adapting Robot Behavior to a Nonstationary Environment: A Deeper Biologically Inspired Model of Neural Processing

Biological inspiration admits to degrees. This paper describes a new neural processing algorithm inspired by a deeper understanding of the workings of real biological synapses. It is shown that multi-time domain adaptation approach to encoding casual correlation solves the destructive interference problem encountered by more commonly used learning algorithms. It is also shown how this allows an agent to adapt to nonstationary environment in which longer-term changes in the statistical properties occur and are inherently unpredictable, yet not completely lose useful prior knowledge. Finally, it sis suggested that the use of causal correlation coupled with value-based learning may provide pragmatic solutions to some other classical problems in machine learning.
582 |[Delta]|-AMINOLEVULINIC ACID (ALA) SYNTHETASE DEFECT IN A FEMALE WITH CONGENITAL SIDEROBLASTIC ANEMIA

Since birth a 3-year old black girl has had severe refractory hypochromic microcytic anemia. Her usual red blood cell (RBC) values are Hgb 6.0 gm/dl, Hct 20%, Retic. 0.5%, MCV 52 fl, MCH 15 pg. Iron deficiency and clinically significant thalassemia were excluded by: lack of response to oral or parenteral iron, serum Fe/TIBC 231/276 μg/dl and serum ferritin 407 ng/ml; normal hemoglobin electrophoresis, absence of erythroid inclusions in the peripheral blood and bone marrow (BM), α/β globin synthetic ratio of 0.85 in peripheral blood reticulocytes and negative family studies. Intensive erythroid hyperplasia and numerous ring sideroblasts were present in the BM aspirate, and electron microscopy confirmed intramitochondrial deposits of iron. Free RBC protoporphyrin, urine porphyrins and porphyrin precursors, and BM ferrochelatase activity were normal. RBC ALA dehydrase, uroporphyrinogen synthetase and pyridoxal kinase activities were increased. Activity of BM ALA synthetase was markedly reduced to 5.5 pmoles ALA/106 erythroblasts/30 min (normal 127±29) but was enhanced 5-fold by pyridoxal phosphate (normal 0-25% increase). Therapy with oral pyridoxine has thus are not noticeably increased effective RBC production. The sideroblastic anemia in this patient appears to be related to an inherited defect in the initial step of heme biosynthesis.
Developmental processes in early adolescence: Relations among chronologic age, pubertal stage, height, weight, and serum levels of gonadotropins, sex steroids, and adrenal androgens

Cross-sectional data are presented on 108 young adolescents (56 boys, 52 girls), ages 9 to 14 years. The measures were: for all subjects, pubertal stage (Tanner criteria for genital/breast and pubic hair stage); height and weight; serum hormone concentrations for gonadotropins (luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone), sex steroids (testosterone, estradiol, and the computed testosterone to estradiol ratio), adrenal androgens (dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and androstenedione), and testosterone-estradiol binding globulin. In addition, testicular volume for boys and menarchial status for girls are reported. The study goal was to provide interrelations among these measures, based on the same sample, and examine their interchangeability. Results suggest that it would be reasonable to compare research across as well as within studies based on different markers. Multiple regression analysis showed that the strongest hormone correlates of pubertal development were androgen levels (primarily testosterone in boys and primarily dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate and androstenedione in girls). Estradiol level in girls was the strongest correlate only for menarchial status. Level of testosterone-estradiol binding globulin, which was lower at successive pubertal stages for boys and showed no consistent differences for girls, may be a useful measure for studying the developmental processes and gender differences during puberty.
The conversion of desoxycorticosterone acetate to a progesterone-like substance.

IT HAS been known for some time that desoxycorticosterone acetate (DCA) possesses weak progestational activity when administered systemically. However, DCA will not bring about progestational changes when applied topically to the endometrium of the rabbit (McGinty, 1942) nor will it cause a positive reaction in the stromal nuclei of the uterus of the mouse following local application (Hooker and Forbes, 1949). Pfiffner (1942) concluded from an analysis of the structural similarities of the two molecules and from McGimVy’s data (1942) that desoxycorticosterone is converted in the body to progesterone, probably by removal of the primary hydroxyl group. Since then, evidence has been presented for the in vivo conversion of DCA to progesterone in monkeys (Zarrow, Hisaw and Bryans, 1950) but no information is available regarding the locus of this conversion. MATERIAL AND METHODS Adult rats of the Sprague-Dawley strain and grey Chinchilla rabbits were used for the studies on the site of conversion of DCA to prog...
Elevated levels of basic fibroblast growth factor in patients with limb ischemia

Abstract Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), a prototypic member of a family of heparin-binding growth factors, is angiogenic both in vitro and in vivo. Increased levels and activity of bFGF have been documented in a variety of diseases, including tumors. We sought to determine whether bFGF might be similarly elevated in patients with clinical evidence of limb ischemia. Serum was obtained at the time of percutaneous revascularization from patients with symptomatic peripheral vascular disease (46 procedures were performed on 40 patients). An enzyme-linked immunoassay specific for bFGF was used (limit of detection, 1 pg/ml; range in normal subjects, 0 to 5 pg/ml). Among the 40 patients (28 men, 12 women, mean age 70 years) studied, elevated circulating bFGF (≥10 pg/ml) was detected in 36 samples (78%); levels ranged from 10 to 310 pg/ml (mean ± SEM = 62 ± 12). In 16 (89%) of 18 patients with both rest pain and nonhealing ischemic ulcers, serum bFGF levels were elevated up to 30 times normal values. In conclusion, circulating levels of bFGF are elevated in patients with vascular insufficiency and may reflect a physiologic response to limb ischemia.
Analysis of neutron reflectivity data: maximum entropy, Bayesian spectral analysis and speckle holography

Abstract The analysis of neutron reflectivity data to obtain nuclear scattering length density profiles is akin to the notorious phaseless Fourier problem, well known in many fields such as crystallography. Current methods of analysis culminate in the refinement of a few parameters of a functional model, and are often preceded by a long and laborious process of trial and error. We start by discussing the use of maximum entropy for obtaining “free-form” solutions of the density profile, as an alternative to the trail and error phase when a functional model is not available. Next we consider a Bayesian spectral analysis approach, which is appropriate for optimising the parameters of a simple (but adequate) type of model when the number of parameters is not known. Finally, we suggest a novel experimental procedure, the analogue of astronomical speckle holography, designed to alleviate the ambiguity problems inherent in traditional reflectivity measurements.
Mutations in the GAP-related domain impair the ability of neurofibromin to associate with microtubules

The neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) gene encodes a cytoplasmic protein with structural and functional homology to GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) for p21-ras. Double-labeling immunofluorescence experiments using neurofibromin antibodies and in vitro microtubule assembly have demonstrated that the NF1 gene product, neurofibromin, interacts with cytoplasmic microtubules. The region critical for this interaction was shown to reside within the NF1-GAP-related domain (NF1GRD). Examination of the NFIGRD reveals a number of residues that are highly conserved amongst all GAP molecules. Mutational analysis of a representative number of these conserved residues demonstrated differential effects on NF1GRD p21-ras GAP activity. In this study, we examined the effect of these selected NF1GRD mutations on the ability of neurofibromin to associate with microtubules. Mutations at residues R1391, P1400 and K1423 disrupted microtubule association. In contrast, mutations at residues E1264, Q1426 and the insertion of exon 23a, critical for p21-ras regulation, did not impair microtubule association. These results demonstrate that some residues important for p21-ras regulation are also required for microtubule binding while other residues within the NF1GRD differentially affect p21-ras regulation and microtubule association.
What is Christian about Christian bioethics

What is Christian about Christian bioethics? The short answer to this question is that the Incarnation should shape the form and content of Christian bioethics. In explicating this answer it is argued that contemporary medicine is unwittingly embracing and implementing the transhumanist dream of transforming humans into posthumans. Contemporary medicine does not admit that there are any limits in principle to the extent to which it should intervene to improve the quality of human life. This largely inarticulate, yet ambitious, agenda is derived first in late modernity's failed, but nonetheless ongoing, attempt to transform necessity into goodness, and second the loss of any viable concept of eternity, thereby stripping temporal existence of any normative significance. In short, medicine has become the vanguard of a profane attempt to save humankind by extracting data from flesh. In response, it is contended that an alternative Christian bioethics must be shaped by the Incarnation, the Word made flesh. This assertion does not entitle Christians to oppose the posthuman trajectory of contemporary medicine on the basis of any natural or biological essentialism. Rather, it is an evangelical witness to the grace of Christ's redemption instead of the work of self-transformation. It is Christ alone who thereby makes the vulnerability and mortality of finitude a gift and blessing. Specifically, it is maintained that the chasm separating necessity and goodness cannot be filled but only bridged through the suffering entailed in Christ's cross, and through Christ's resurrection eternity becomes the standard against which the temporal lives of human creatures are properly formed and measured. Consequently, Christian bioethics should help us become conformed to Christ rather than enabling self-transformation.
Using rubrics to assess information literacy: An examination of methodology and interrater reliability

Academic librarians seeking to assess information literacy skills often focus on testing as a primary means of evaluation. Educators have long recognized the limitations of tests, and these limitations cause many educators to prefer rubric assessment to test-based approaches to evaluation. In contrast, many academic librarians are unfamiliar with the benefits of rubrics. Those librarians who have explored the use of information literacy rubrics have not taken a rigorous approach to methodology and interrater reliability. This article seeks to remedy these omissions by describing the benefits of a rubric-based approach to information literacy assessment, identifying a methodology for using rubrics to assess information literacy skills, and analyzing the interrater reliability of information literacy rubrics in the hands of university librarians, faculty, and students. Study results demonstrate that Cohen's κ can be effectively employed to check interrater reliability. The study also indicates that rubric training sessions improve interrater reliability among librarians, faculty, and students. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cumulative Effects of Sleep Restriction on Daytime Sleepiness

Sleep and daytime sleepiness were evaluated in 10 young adult subjects to determine whether restricting nocturnal step by a constant amount produces cumulative impairment. Subjects were studied for 12 consecutive days, including 3 baseline days with a 10-hr time in bed, 7 days with sleep restricted to 5 hrs, and 2 recovery days. In 5 subjects, recovery included a 10-hr time in bed; in the remaining subject, recovery induced a 5-hr time in bed with a 1-hr daytime nap. Sleepiness was measured using two self-rating scales and the multiple sleep latency test. During sleep restriction, nocturnal stage 2 and REM sleep were reduced and slow wave sleep was unaffected. Stanford Sleepiness Scales showed an immediate increase in daytime sleepiness that reached a plateau after 4 days. An analog sleepiness rating scale showed increased sleepiness after 2 restricted nights and leveled off after the fourth restricted night. The multiple sleep latency tests showed no effect of sleep restriction until the second day, followed by a progressive increase in sleepiness that persisted through the seventh sleep restriction day. During the recovery period, daytime sleepiness returned to basal values on all three measures following one full night of sleep; with a daytime nap, no further cumulative effects of sleep restriction were seen.
Rotator cuff repair should be done open: seein’ is believin’!—in the affirmative

Abstract New technologies and improved instrumentation have encouraged surgeons to attempt rotator cuff repairs utilizing arthroscopic techniques. Is this again, another triumph of technology over reason? Historically, open cuff repair has provided excellent, time-tested outcomes when measured in terms of patient satisfaction. Therefore, a rational discussion demands that one document the advantages of this new technique, before selling it to the orthopaedic surgeon community. The only presumed advantage of the arthroscopic technique of cuff repair is that of less pain in the early days following surgery. The procedure is not faster; therefore it costs more. Mobilization of the cuff remnants is much more difficult and likely never as complete as in an open technique. Reestablishing the anatomic "footprint" of the cuff is more difficult in all but the smallest tears. Numerous reports suggest that suture tensioning is rarely adequate, particularly in large tears. Bone tunnels have been shown to provide more secure fixation of soft tissue to the tuberosity compared with bone anchors. Despite the hype, the time for the tendon-bone healing is independent of the technique used for the repair. With proper management of the deltoid, its detachment and repair for open cuff repair neither weakens the muscle nor impairs ultimate outcome. Rotator cuff repairs should be done open!
Ornithine decarboxylase activity during development of the mouse inner ear in vivo and in vitro

Ornithine decarboxylase activity was determined during the development of the peripheral auditory system in the murine otocyst with the goal of understanding the role of this enzyme in the morphological and functional maturation of the inner ear. At gestational days 11 and 12 enzyme activity was more than 10-fold higher than adult levels. A sharp decline occurred between day 12 and 13 after which activity rose to a peak around day 15. Activity then dropped continuously until near-adult levels were reached at birth. A lower specific activity of ODC but a similar time-course was seen in otocysts explanted at gestational day 13 and subsequently cultured for 6 days. For two stages of development, enzyme activity and binding of 3H-alpha-difluoromethylornithine were compared. The four-fold difference in enzymatic activity on gestational days 15 and 17 was paralleled by a similar difference in binding. Ornithine decarboxylase activity during inner ear development therefore seems primarily regulated at the level of protein synthesis. Ornithine decarboxylase activity correlates with major inductive events in the morphogenesis of the cartilagenous otic capsule that serves as a template for the formation of the bony labyrinth. The pattern of activity may reflect the changes in the head mesenchyme that is recruited by the otocyst to aggregate and form its protective otic capsule.
Perceptions of Body Size in African-American and Caucasian Middle School-Aged Girls 22

Obesity is a major public health problem in the United States, especially for African-American women. Adolescence is a critical period for the development of obesity in black females. There is evidence that the social environment surrounding female weight status differs between blacks and whites. Most experts believe that obesity results from an interaction of genetics and environment. In order to prevent the development of obesity in black females during adolescence, attitudes concerning body size and the social and cultural meanings attached to weight must be better understood. The purpose of this study was to compare attitudes toward body size between black and white middle school-aged girls.
The Grand Challenges for HFES and HF/E Profession The Fellows’ Perspective

As agreed by many HFES members, there is a pressing need to develop a unified vision for our Society, our discipline, and our profession that will guide HFES over the next 25 years and beyond. The main goal of this panel session is to discuss a long-term vision for our Society that reflects our common aspirations and that considers the profound technological, economic, social, and cultural transformations of the global society. Such a vision should help us to influence the development of our discipline worldwide and lead the HF/E the profession into the future.
Overcoming the Child-Langmuir law via the magnetic mirror effect

Abstract The maximum current in a vacuum tube is prescribed by the classical Child–Langmuir law, and several scenarios are known to overcome this limit. Another such a scenario is introduced, which is based on the magnetic mirror effect. It is estimated that the current could exceed the Child–Langmuir limit by up to a few factors. The regime of practical relevance is examined.
Controlled release of testosterone using silicone rubber

This study was undertaken to find a means for a long lasting and uniform release of the male hormone, testosterone. The rate of release of testosterone was determined over periods up to 4 months. The factors which affect the rate of testosterone release were studied and a mechanism for the release of testosterone was proposed. The first means providing a constant release of testosterone was the use of silicone rubber membrane around testosterone cylinders. It was found that a constant rate of release was reached after an initial unsteady state period ranging from 1 to 2 weeks. It was theorized that a water layer had formed between the membrane and testosterone cylinder. This layer caused the concentration inside the capsule to be that of saturated water. Several testosterone cylinders were coated with especially prepared membranes. These membranes were made by dissolving testosterone and silicone rubber in a mixture of tetrahydrofurane and toluene. It was hoped that an amount of testosterone might be incorporated into the silicone rubber matrix. The samples were run and the permeabilities determined. The permeability showed little or no increase over the range of 10–30% testosterone. Next, a membrane was prepared by mechanically mixing testosterone and silicone rubber. The amount of testosterone ranged between 5 and 200%, by weight. A definite increase in the permeability was observed with an increase in the percentage of testosterone. The second method of obtaining a uniform rate of release of testosterone was by mechanically mixing testosterone and silicone rubber and molding a sheet. After an initial unsteady state a constant rate of release was obtained and such rate of release increased with higher percentages of testosterone in the sheets.
Anger, perceived control and school behavior among students with learning problems.

Abstract With regard to students with learning problems, findings indicate that the more severe the learning problem, the greater the tendency toward anger in response to conflicts at school. The relationship between learning problem severity and perceptions of control at school was not significant, but anger was negatively correlated to perceived control. None of the variables were significantly related to misbehavior. A stepwise regression analysis indicated perceived control as the most potent single variable accounting for the variance in anger scores. Overall, findings highlight implications for work focused on reactions to learning problems and factors associated with their cause and correction.
High quality, low complexity halftoning with good compressibility

Proposes a novel method of hybrid LUT/screen halftoning which achieves both high quality and compressibility using only point processes. Experimental results show that the halftone images from our hybrid LUT/screen algorithm have quality comparable to those from the direct binary search (DBS) algorithm with excellent performance of lossless halftone compression.