cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A comparative study of two kinds of defluorinating agents for removal of fluoride in drinking water

Objective To compare the effectiveness of two kinds of defluorinating agents (bone char and modified clay) for removal of fluoride in drinking water,and to analyze their application feasibility in small towns.Methods Influencing factors on defluorinating efficiencies of the two kinds of defluorinating agents under the same conditions were studied,namely the effects of adsorption time,temperature,pH,common anions and cations,and solid-liquid ratio on defluorinating efficiencies were studied.The defluorinating efficiencies of the two kinds of defluorinating agents were validated by original groundwater in Jilin Province.The homemade bone char defluorinating agent and modified clay defluorinating agent were regenerated by NaOH and Al2(SO4)3,respectively,and their regeneration abilities were investigated.Results The adsorption data of the two kinds of defluorinating agents were fitted Langmuir model well,and the maximum adsorption capacities were 10.225 g/kg(bone char) and 0.587 g/kg(modified clay).The effect of temperature on defluorinating efficiencies was limited,with increasing temperature(10-35 ℃),the adsorption capacity of bone char and modified clay for fluoride ranged from 1.568 g/kg to 1.598 g/kg and 0.423 g/kg to 0.470 g/kg,respectively.Fluoride could be easily removed under low pH conditions,with increasing of pH(4-10),the adsorption capacity of bone char and modified clay for fluoride decreased from 1.598 g/kg to 1.523 g/kg and 0.724 g/kg to 0.320 g/kg,respectively.The defluorinating efficiencies were improved by common cations(Ca2+) in groundwater,and the adsorption capacity of bone char and modified clay for fluoride increased to 1.713 g/kg and 0.485 g/kg,respectively.Whereas,the defluorinating efficiencies were inhibited by common anions(HCO3-,SO42-) at a certain degree,and the adsorption capacities of bone char and modified clay for fluoride were decreased to 1.158 g/kg(HCO3-) and 0.237 g/kg(SO42),respectively.Defluoridation bone char could be regenerated by soaking in NaOH,and modified clay by immersion in Al2(SO4)3.The adsorption capacities of the two defluorinating agents that had been regenerated for three times still reached 94.6％ and 97.3％ of their original capacities.Conclusions Both of the homemade bone char defluorinating agent and modified clay defluorinating agent have good defluorinating efficiencies and can be regenerated for many times,which are perfectly suitable for application in small towns since they are simple and can be easily applied.The homemade bone char defluorinating agent is suitable for family drinking water and the homemade modified clay defluorinating agent would be more suitable for centralized drinking water. Key words: Bone char; Modified clay ; Drinking; Defluorination
The Critical Shoulder Angle as a Diagnostic Measure for Osteoarthritis and Rotator Cuff Pathology.

The purpose of this study was to correlate critical shoulder angle (CSA), a measurement that takes into account both glenoid tilt and the acromial index (AI), with shoulder pathologies as presented in an earlier study by Moor et al. (2013). Based on Moor et al.'s predicted normal CSA range of 30-35°, we hypothesized that a greater-than-normal CSA would be correlated to or associated with rotator cuff pathology, while a smaller-than-normal CSA would be associated with osteoarthritis (OA). Following Moore et al., we utilized Grashey radiographic imaging because it provides the clearest view of the entire glenoid fossa and acromion. We analyzed 323 anterior-posterior (AP) radiographs to identify and measure the CSA, classifying each patient into one of five groups [none reported (n=94), mild OA (n=156), moderate OA (n=36), severe OA (n=37), and rotator cuff pathology (n=40)]. Our results were statistically significant, supporting the association of smaller CSAs with OA and larger CSAs with rotator cuff pathology. CSA measurements could provide a new means for identifying shoulder pathology and thereby reduce the need for costly and timely imaging techniques. CSA values could also provide useful information to utilize preventatively with interventions such as physical therapy to alter the CSA and reduce the prevalence of OA and shoulder arthroplasties. This study builds on the findings of Moore et al. in creating a correlation between CSA and shoulder pathology.
Telotristat ethyl to enhance cytotoxic chemotherapy response in preclinical cholangiocarcinoma models.

331Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the second-most common primary liver cancer after hepatocellular carcinoma. It has a poor prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of 5-15%. The current stan...
Giant fibroid polyp mimicking uterine inversion

A multiparous postmenopausal woman presented with continuous bleeding per vagina along with a large cervical polyp, protruding through introitus simulating uterine inversion. She was stabilized by five-unit packed-cell blood transfusion. After initial diagnostic confirmation, she was treated by polypectomy. Further investigations revealed it to be a giant fibroid polyp of benign nature arising from cervix. She was amenorrheic on the next 12 months of follow-up.
Wealth and Well-being in an Ancient Maya Community

Inequality is an intrinsic element of contemporary societies, with high income disparity impacting everything from life expectancy to violent crime. While inequality in today’s society is complex and multifaceted, the prominence and persistence of inequality that existed throughout human history raise important questions about its broader impacts in the past. In this paper, we discuss the concept of quality of life (QOL) for archaeology and introduce methods for studying multiple dimensions of wealth and well-being in past societies. Using previously published burial data from the ancient Maya site of Altar de Sacrificios, we illustrate this approach employing notions of personhood that treat individuals embedded in complex socio-material relations. These data enable diachronic analyses in the degree and kinds of inequality that characterized this Maya community over a span of nearly 2000 years. We further discuss how these techniques can apply to other units of archaeological analysis and comparative case studies. Tracing the disparities in material wealth, social well-being, and health through time enables a more detailed analysis of the specific contexts and historical processes that gave rise to varying degrees of inequality in the past.
Indirect White Matter Pathways Are Associated With Treated Naming Improvement in Aphasia.

BackgroundWhite matter disconnection of language-specific brain regions associates with worse aphasia recovery. Despite a loss of direct connections, many stroke survivors may maintain indirect con...
The Papers of Thomas Jefferson: Retirement Series, Volume 16: June 1820 to February 1821: edited by J. Jefferson Looney et al., Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2019, Pp. 784, $150.00 (hbk), ISBN 9780691197272

At the opening of this latest volume in the “Retirement Series of The Papers of Thomas Jefferson” project, the third president of the United States had recently turned 77. Despite being out of publ...
Computing Probabilites for the Difference of Two t-Variables

In this article a method for computing probabilities for the difference of two t-variables is proposed when the degrees of freedom of both variables are equal. The results obtained by the proposed method are compared with those given by Ghosh (1975, Journal of the American Statistical Association).
Evolutionary Psychology and Genetic Variation: Non-Adaptive, Fitness-Related and Adaptive

Behavioural variation across individuals can be substantial. A broad generalization emerging from three decades of behavioural genetic studies is that most psychological individual differences have moderate broad heritabilities (30-60%). There are at least three possible scenarios for this genetic variation. First, it may be adaptively neutral and not subject to selection. Second, it may be related to fitness despite selection. Third, it may be maintained by selection for alternative adaptations. Some authors favour the first of these possibilities, but the latter two cannot be ruled out. First, temporally varying selection pressures (e.g. pathogens) can maintain fitness-related genetic variance in a population despite current selection pressures. Moreover, direct and indirect evidence on humans support the notion that some phenotypic variance is fitness related. Second, while adaptive alternatives are unlikely to be found at a level of highly complex design, frequency dependent selection can maintain variation at finer, quantitative levels. One potential example is discussed. Because of their particular relevance to evolutionary psychology, fitness-related and adaptive genetic variance deserve further attention.
The motion of particles in general relativity beyond the geodetic approximation

A tensorial surface integral relationship which is equivalent to the Einstein field equations for empty space is used to derive the equation of motion of a finite-mass monopole correct to terms proportional to the square of the mass of the particle. The resulting equation of motion is covariant under both continuous transformations of the four co-ordinates and also under singular (mass-dependent) co-ordinate transformations. No infinities occur in the calculations.
Terror CATs: TRIA's Failure to Encourage a Private Market for Terrorism Insurance and How Federal Securitization of Terrorism Risk May Be a Viable Alternative

Table of ContentsI. Introduction 1826II. The Structure of TRIA 1831III. Private Market's Failure to Create a Long-Term Solution to Terrorism Risk 1833A. Mandatory/Discretionary Recovery 1833B. Large Insurers Can Game TRIA 1840C. Lack of Information Sharing 1843D. TRIA Creates Regulatory Certainty 1846E. Insurers Believe They Can Rely on Traditional Coverage Exclusions 1848F . TRIA Displaces Traditional Private Reinsurance 1850IV. Why Continuing Under TRIA in Its Current Form Is Not Attractive 1850V. Proposed Alternatives to TRIA 1852A. Alteration of the Tax Code to Allow Insurers to Build Additional Reserves 1852B. Creation of Terrorism Insurance Pools 1854VI. Federal Terror CATs 1856A. Risk Securitization and Traditional Reinsurance 1 8571. Advantages of Risk Securitization 18572. Disadvantages of Risk Securitization 1860B. Federal Terror CATs 18631. $60 Billion Terrorism Reinsurance Fund 18642. Funding Each Terror CAT Tranche 18643. Attributes of Terror CATs 18654. Recapitalizing the Fund Following a Loss 18665. Other Program Provisions 1867C. The Case for Federal Terror CATs 18681 . Advantages of a Federal Terror CAT Program 18682. Concerns 1872VII. Conclusion 1873I. IntroductionSeptember 11, 2001 changed America forever. Although no one can value the Uves lost, the 9/11 attacks cost the American economy an estimated $1 trillion.1 Such an economic loss sent shock waves through the global economy.2For the insurance industry, the 9/1 1 attacks were a "clash event."3 A clash event is characterized by catastrophic industry loss across multiple lines of insurance coverage.4 As a result of 9/11, approximately 150 insurers and reinsurers5 suffered an estimated $32.5 billion in losses.6 Insured property losses totaled over $1 1 billion.7Prior to 9/11, insurers did not view terrorism as a risk.8 Accordingly, insurers failed to account for terrorism in their premiums or underwriting calculations.9 This oversight was due to the fact that historically, terrorism losses were small and uncorrelated.10 Large-scale terrorist attacks, such as the 9/1 1 attacks, however, are correlated risks." Unlike uncorrelated risks,12 correlated risks make it difficult for insurers to spread or "pool" those risks.13 Without the ability to pool risks, insurance companies cannot hedge many uncorrelated risks of loss against many other uncorrelated risks of loss.14 This prevents insurance companies from offsetting earned premiums against coverage payments.15 Following 9/11, the risk of terrorism losses became real and difficult to manage.16In the face of this new and uncertain risk, insurers left the market to reduce their risk exposure. …
Clinical Characteristics and Survival in Multiple System Atrophy (P1.264)

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate disease duration, clinical course, and survival predictors in a large cohort of multiple system atrophy (MSA) patients. BACKGROUND: There are differing reports of survival in MSA; it is unclear whether the parkinsonian (MSA-P) or cerebellar (MSA-C) motor subtype and initial symptom type influence survival. METHODS: All cases of MSA evaluated at Mayo Clinic, Rochester assessed with an autonomic reflex screen between January 1998 and December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were classified as MSA-P or MSA-C and categorized by initial symptom type (motor, autonomic, or combined). Demographic data, clinical variables, imaging findings, and autonomic testing results were reviewed and assessed as survival variables. RESULTS: A total of 685 MSA patients were identified; 593 met consensus criteria for probable and 92 for possible MSA. MSA-P was the predominant subtype in 430 patients (63[percnt]). Median disease duration from symptom onset to death was 7.5 years (7.2-7.8, 95[percnt] confidence interval) while time from diagnosis to death was 3.5 years (3.2-3.8). There was no difference in survival between MSA-P and MSA-C. Unfavorable predictors of survival included older age at onset (p=0.0006), stridor (p=0.001), composite autonomic severity score based on autonomic reflex screen (p=0.002) and percentage of anhidrosis on thermoregulatory sweat test (p=0.03). An initial motor symptom was most common (61[percnt]) followed by autonomic (28[percnt]) and combined (11[percnt]) symptoms; this was not different by motor subtype and did not influence survival. However, men were more likely to have initial autonomic symptoms compared to women (33 vs 22[percnt]) while women were more likely to initially manifest motor symptoms (68 vs 55[percnt], both p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest: 1) similar median survival of MSA-P and MSA-C, 2) age, stridor, and autonomic dysfunction are important predictors of survival, and 3) there is a modest gender difference in initial MSA symptoms. Disclosure: Dr. Coon has nothing to disclose. Dr. Suarez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ahlskog has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mandrekar has nothing to disclose. Dr. Low has received personal compensation for activities with Chelsea Therapeutics, Pfizer Inc., and WR Medical Electronics Company as a consultant. Dr. Singer has received license fee payments from Jacobus Pharmaceutical.
Quality of service for tactical data links: TDMA with dynamic scheduling

In this paper we focus on demand-assigned multiple-access (DAMA) MAC protocols utilizing time division multiple access (TDMA). In TDMA, the channel is broken down into time slots of equal duration, and nodes are allocated slots in which to transmit their data. Slots can be preassigned prior to a mission or can be allocated dynamically as the need arises. Herein, we develop and simulate two dynamic allocation algorithms: the first provides fair scheduling of data, while the second provides strict priority scheduling of data. These protocols are simulated in a tactical targeting network technologies (TTNT) single-strike scenario which is a 78-node scenario with a varied traffic profile. We compare the performance of the fair scheduling and strict priority scheduling algorithms against a preassigned TDMA protocol. In addition to the scheduling algorithms two classification methods are used in these experiments, the first based on packet size and the second based on both message type and packet size. We find that adding dynamic allocation improves overall bandwidth utilization over the preassigned TDMA protocol for either type of classification. However classification based on packet size alone is not effective in providing service differentiation. Classification based on message type and packet size used with the strict priority scheduling offers the best priority treatment for this traffic profile.
Winds Across the Void

With a temperature of a few million Kelvin, the outer solar atmosphere, or corona, is so hot it cannot remain still. It has to expand out from the Sun, like heat escaping from a chimney on a cold day. The high pressure at the bottom of the corona naturally pushes the high-temperature gas away from the Sun in all directions (Focus 5.1).
The P-450 Nature of the Carbon Monoxide Complex of Ferrous Chloroperoxidase

The absorption spectrum of the carbon monoxide complex of ferrous chloroperoxidase from Caldariomyces fumago has been shown to be quite similar to the characteristic spectrum of CO complexes of cytochromes of the P-450 type. Comparison of other spectral properties of chloroperoxidase and cytochrome P-450cam reveals a striking resemblance between the two proteins. The Soret absorption maxima for native, reduced, cyanide, nitrous oxide, and N-phenylimidazole complexes are quite similar. N-Phenylimidazole, a potent inhibitor of the cytochrome P-450cam-catalyzed hydroxylation of camphor, is a very effective inhibitor of a chloroperoxidase-catalyzed peroxidation reaction. Like P-450, chloroperoxidase undergoes characteristic spectral changes in the presence of substrates and nitrogenous compounds. Type I and type II spectral changes have been observed. Carefully controlled denaturation of chloroperoxidase resulted in the formation of a species having a spectrum essentially identical with that of cytochrome P-420, the denatured form of P-450. The spectral similarities described here indicate that both proteins provide quite similar environments for the heme prosthetic group. Both proteins also compare favorably with respect to physical properties such as molecular weight, high content of acidic amino acids, and low isoelectric point.
A high performance class-D amplifier with cascaded sigma-delta modulators

A topology for high performance of a class-D amplifier is proposed. The structural design consists of two sigma-delta modulator (SDM) stages in cascade with an intermediate decimation-filter between them. Noise and high tone introduced at the first stage are filtered out through the decimation-filter. The signal is converted to a 1-bit pulse duration modulation signal by the second stage SDM. The H-bridge is made part of the SDM loop, which not only enables the shaping of quantization noise but also stabilizes the output power switching stage.
Benzene inhibits RNA synthesis in mitochondria from liver and bone marrow.

Abstract Mitochondria, isolated from livers of partially hepatectomized rats given a single dose of benzene (2200 mg/kg) 10 h post-hepatectomy, show inhibition of RNA synthesis when they are incubated in vitro. In addition benzene inhibits the synthesis of all three types of RNA in 24-h regenerating rat liver mitochondria in vitro and also in normal rabbit liver mitochondria. Similarly benzene caused a dose-dependent inhibition of RNA synthesis in vitro in mitoplasts derived from cat and rabbit bone marrow mitochondria. The inhibition of mitochondrial RNA synthesis by benzene in all these systems shows a requirement for exogenous NADPH which suggests that benzene must be bioactivated within the organelle. Equivalent concentrations of toluene show no inhibition and the concomitant addition of equimolar toluene and benzene results in protection against benzene inhibition. Similar results were obtained with either intact mitochondria or mitoplasts, mitochondria stripped of their outer membrane. These results suggest that inhibition by benzene is not merely the result of solvent effects on the membranes and that the bioactivation of benzene occurs within the organelle and not by contaminating microsomes adventitiously bound to the outer mitochondrial membrane. Both liver and bone marrow mitochondria incubated with [3H]benzene appear to activate the benzene to a metabolite which can covalently bind to guanine residues in their DNA. Benzene can also inhibit mitochondrial translation most probably because an inhibition of transcription results in a lack of mRNA and a subsequent disaggregation of polysomes. These results demonstrate that mitochondria can bioactivate benzene to a toxic metabolite which binds to DNA and results in an inability of mitochondrial RNA polymerase to transcribe the genome which subsequently result in an inhibition of translation.
Solvable limit cycle in a Volterra-type model of interacting populations

Abstract A simple, biologically more realistic, Volterra-type model with a limit cycle for two interacting populations is presented. The limit cycle behavior is investigated analytically by the introduction of a solvable metamodel. For some values of the constants, the metamodel is equivalent to a van der Pol equation.
Quantitative helmet-mounted display system image quality model

Honeywell has developed a quantitative image quality model for the Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) electro-optical systems that will predict the optical performance and image quality of a given system configuration. The linear systems model includes modules for the image intensifier objective, image intensifier tube, fiber optic faceplates and tapers, charge coupled device (CCD) camera, liquid crystal display (LCD) or CRT image source, relay optics, electronic filtering and preprocessing, and a perception model for the eye. Sine wave and square wave system response are predicted via modulation transform function (MTF) calculations as well as the maximum resolution and a measurement of just noticeable differences (jnd's) as perceived by the human eye. The model will allow the system designer to quickly and inexpensively evaluate complex systems tradeoffs and modifications to advanced HMD systems.
Practical transformer modeling and characterization for a high performance LLC converter

This paper will present a method to model and characterize a typical LLC dc-dc converter transformer with a center tapped secondary. The emphasis of the model will be on the ease of characterization using practical lab equipment and its subsequent suitability for simulation in a number of practical venues (e.g. Saber, Simplis, Pspice [9][10][11]). Practical design implications for the LLC converter will also be explored.
Achieving the national health objective for influenza immunization: Success of an institution-wide vaccination program☆

Abstract purpose: To enhance influenza vaccination rates for high-risk outpatients at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) in Minneapolis, Minnesota, an institution-wide immunization program was implemented during 1987. patients and methods: The program consisted of: (1) a hospital policy allowing nurses to vaccinate without a signed physician's order; (2) stamped reminders on all clinic progress notes; (3) a 2-week walk-in flu shot clinic; (4) influenza vaccination "stations" in the busiest clinic areas; and (5) a mailing to all outpatients. Risk characteristics and vaccination rates for patients were estimated from a validation self-administered postcard questionnaire mailed to 500 randomly selected outpatients. For comparison, 500 patients were surveyed from each of three other Midwestern VAMCs without similar programs. results: Overall, 70.6% of Minneapolis patients were high-risk and 58.3% of them were vaccinated. In contrast, 69.9% of patients at the comparison medical centers were high-risk, but only 29.9% of them were vaccinated. conclusion: The Minneapolis VAMC influenza vaccination program was highly successful and may serve as a useful model for achieving the national health objective for influenza immunization.
Bifid Anterior and Posterior Arches of Atlas: Surgical Implication and Analysis of 70 Cases.

BACKGROUND On reviewing the database of patients with craniovertebral junction anomalies, the authors identified 70 patients with a bifid posterior arch of atlas. OBJECTIVE To speculate on the pathogenesis of spondyloschisis of both the anterior and posterior arches of atlas, particularly as it relates to atlantoaxial instability. METHODS Seventy patients with bifid anterior and posterior arches were identified by a retrospective review of the database from 2007 to 2013. RESULTS The ages of the patients ranged from 14 months to 50 years. The patients were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 (3 patients) had multiple additional spinal bony and neural abnormalities. Group 2 (34 patients) had mobile and partially (5) or completely (29) reducible atlantoaxial dislocation. Group 3 (33 patients) had atlantoaxial instability and related basilar invagination. The os odontoideum was identified in 21 patients, and C2-3 fusion was seen in 24 patients. Two of 3 patients in group 1 were treated conservatively and without any surgery. All patients in groups 2 and 3 were surgically treated. Surgery was done using lateral mass plate/rod and screw fixation techniques. The general observation during surgery included identification of discrete movements of both halves of the atlas, lateral positioning of the facets of atlas in relation to the facets of the axis and occipital condyle and closer approximation of the occipital bone, atlas, and axis resulting in "crumpling" of bone and neural elements. CONCLUSION Understanding of the pathogenesis and mechanical alterations in cases with a bifid arch of atlas can assist in evaluating the clinical implications and in conduct of surgery.
Growth and oscillation theory of non-homogeneous linear differential equations

Abstract W investigate the e growth and th frequence oy zerof os f th solutione osf th differentiae lequation / + /^(z)/^- 1 ' + • • • + P 0 (z)f = H(Z), (1.1)where Po(z),P\(z),...,P n -i(z) are polynomials with Po(z) ^ 0, and H(z) ^ 0 is anentire function of finite order. It is well known that every solution / of equation (1.1) isan entire function.For an entire function g, let p(g) denote the order of growth of g, and when g ^ 0, let\{g) denote the exponent of convergence of the sequence of zeros of g.For solutions / of equation (1.1), we investigate the possible values of />(/), and therelationships between the values of />(/), A(/), p(H) and X(H). We give examples toillustrate the sharpness of our results.2. Statement of resultsTo discuss the possible orders of solutions of equation (1.1), we need to know the possibleorders of the solutions of the corresponding homogeneous equation/ + P
Performance of a high-sensitivity chromatographic argon lonization system as determined by calibration with a pulse technique using a solid sample injector

Abstract The response of a small argon detector to varied amounts of fatty acid esters injected onto GLC columns is examined. In the field intensified current region, the ionization current increase of the detector is strictly linear with the concentration of the solute moving through the cell up to a generated peak height current of about 3 nA (Tables 1 and 2, as well as Figure 2). Small quantities of substances with homologous structures and of similar size give rise to current responses that correspond to their molar concentrations. Larger solute concentrations elicit a detector response following an exponential saturation function, as had become previously evident in a steady-state calibration study with propane-argon gas mixtures. A procedure for converting the present peak to the prior established time-invariant detector responses is out-lined. We thus demonstrated that the response for argon detectors, deduced from measurements of varying concentrations of propane, is also applicable to peak currents resulting from slug-injections of high-boiling solutes onto standard GLC columns.
The Great Jewish Drink Mystery

Resumen— L'infrequence relative d'ivresse et d'alcooiisme parmi les juifs, decrite dans plusieurs pays, est attributee, par les scientistes sociaux (sans consideration de facteurs nedques possibles) a integration dans leurs pratiques religieuses et culturelles de la boisson ainsi que dans leurs importantes ceremonies et rites de passage. Toutefbis, il a jamais ete tente de rendre compte de la frequence d'ivresse historiquemeat indiquee parmi les ancetres des juifs durant le temps des prophfetes, ni de l'epoque et de la manire dc sa disparition. Dun examen de source post-biblique il est suggeer que la transition est survenue principalement durant la preriode de 200 are apres le retour du premier exil (Babylonien), lorsque la concurrence des dieux Canaaens, avec leurs festivites d'orgies de boissons, ont ete bards avec succes, la Bible a ete formellement adoptee par le peuple comnic sa Constitution et les Scribes-une nouvelle voie de direction ouverte a tous ceux qiii veulent siristruire-tablirent des synagogues locales comme endroits d'education populaire ainsi que de devotion sur tout le territoire, et fixerent et sanctififerent i'usage rituei de la boisson. Levidence est prouvee de sources Midrachiques, Talmudiques et plus tard rabbiniques que la boisson et une certaine peur de Tivresse a survecu quelques centaines d'annes, mais au moyen-âge en Europe, ni la boisson ni la peur de l'ivresse n'ont survecu dans les communautes Juives, consideres comme un phenomene etranger. Zusammenfassung— Sozialwiddenschafder schreiben das iiber Juden aus zahlreichen LSridem berichtete Nichtvorhandensein von Trunksuchtund Alkoholismus (ohne Riicksich auf etwaige genetische Faktoren) der dieser Rasse eigenen religios-kulturellen Integration des Trinkens in ihre bedeutsamen, feierlichen Gebrauche und Durchgangsriten zu. Es wurden jedoch keinerlei Versuche angestellt, das historisch aufgezeichnete, haufige Vorhandensein von Berauschtheit unter den Vorfahren der Juden im Zeitalter der Propheten oder die Zeit und Art xmd Weise des Verachwindens dieser Erscheinung zu erklaren. Uberpriifung von nachbiblischen Qjiellen deutet darauf hin, dass sich dieser Ubergang hauptsachlich in der 200 jahrigen Periode nach der Ruckkehr aus der ersten babylonischen Verbannung abspielte, zu einer Zeit da die konkurrierenden Gotter Kanaans mit ihren Rauschorgienfesten erfolgreich abgeschafft wurden, das Volk die Bibel formell als seine Verfessung anerkannte und die Schriftgelehrteneine neue Gruppe von Fuhrem, die alien Wissensdurstigen zuganglich war -einheimische Synagogen als Volkserziegungsstatten und gleichzeitig Grotteshauser im ganzen Land crrichtctcn und das Trinlcritual fcsden und hciligtcn. Bewcisej dass ubcrmSlssigcs Weinixijiken und die Furcht vor Tninksucht noch in gcringem Masse einige hundert Jahre andauerten, wurde aus Mydrasch, Talmud und spateren rabbinischen Quellen erbarchtj aber im Mittelalter herrschte in den europaischen, jtidischen Gremeinden weder tatsachliche Trunksucht noch die Angst vor einer Erscheinimg, die als fremdartig angesehen wurde.
Development and evaluation of an environmental multimedia fate model CHEMGL for the Great Lakes region.

Abstract This paper describes the development of a multimedia compartmental model––CHEMGL––which predicts the fate and transport of chemicals in the Great Lakes region and can be used for risk assessment. CHEMGL includes 10 compartments that describe a given region: air boundary layer, free troposphere, lower stratosphere, surface water, sediment, surface soil, vadose soil, groundwater zone, plant foliage and plant root. The model assumes that the compartments are completely mixed and chemical equilibrium between the phases within each compartment is assumed (e.g., suspended solids and biota in water). The attenuation mechanisms include advection, transformation reactions, and diffusive and nondiffusive intermedia transport between compartments. Input parameters include a description of each environmental media, emission rates, and chemical-specific properties and reaction rates. The numerical model results are in good agreement with the analytical solution for an example that examines the fate of benzene. Accordingly, the mathematical and computational components of the model were verified. CHEMGL predicted the concentration of four representative chemicals (atrazine, benzo[ a ]pyrene, benzene and hexachlorobenzene) in all five basins: Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario. The predicted concentrations fell within one to two orders of magnitude of data reported in the literature. These results suggest that the model is appropriate for estimating the fate and exposure of chemicals for a screening level risk assessment.
Interleukin-6 in the aging brain

Abstract Astrocytes, microglia, and neurons express the cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), which in the brain has been suggested to reduce food intake, inhibit memory and learning, cause neurodegeneration, and exacerbate sickness behavior induced by other cytokines. Recent evidence indicates IL-6 levels are increased in brain of healthy aged animals, thus it may play a role in the neurophysiological manifestations of old age. The purpose of this brief report is to discuss the new evidence that suggests an age-related increase in brain IL-6 and the impact this inflammatory cytokine may have on “successful” aging.
The Interaction of Aspiration Pneumonia with Demographic and Cerebrovascular Disease Risk Factors is Predictive of Discharge Level of Care in the Acute Stroke Patient

OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate factors that help determine the post-acute level of care for stroke patients with aspiration pneumonia (ASPNA). DESIGN This was a retrospective observational study of patients admitted to the University of Texas at Houston Medical School Stroke Service between July 2004 and October 2009 with discharge dispositions of home, inpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing facility, or subacute care (n = 3511). Demographics, stroke risk factors, and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) values were collected. Interactions were evaluated between ASPNA and aging, ASPNA and NIHSS, ASPNA and use of tube feeding, and ASPNA and history of stroke. Using multivariable logistic regression, the data were analyzed for differences in disposition among patients with ASPNA. RESULTS There were significant correlations between ASPNA and an NIHSSvalue of 7.44 or greater for discharge to inpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing facility, or subacute care compared with discharge to home (P = 0.0138); between ASPNA and an NIHSS value of 10.93 or greater for discharge to skilled nursing facility or subacute care compared with inpatient rehabilitation (P < 0.0001); and between ASPNA and age greater than 69.30 yrs for discharge to subacute care compared with a skilled nursing facility (P G 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Patients with ASPNA and an NIHSS value of 7.44 or greater are more likely to require additional postacute care. ASPNA and an NIHSS value of 10.93 or greater increased the chance of postacute care at a level suggestive of lower functional status (skilled nursing facility or subacute care compared with inpatient rehabilitation). Age greater than 69.30 yrs plus ASPNA increased the likelihood of placement in subacute care vs. a skilled nursing facility.
A comparative study of the polypeptides of mammalian peripheral nerve myelin

Summary Polypeptide components of peripheral nerve myelin prepared from sciatic nerves of mouse, rat, rabbit, cat, guinea pig, monkey, dog and chicken were analyzed using a 20 % polyacrylamide slab-gel electrophoresis system. Using this technique, we have demonstrated that there are at least two polypeptides present in the region of P1 protein (mol. wt. 18,000 and 16,000), and two closely moving components in the region of P2 protein (mol. wt. 13,500). A polypeptide (mol. wt. 10.500) is present in significant amounts only in mouse sciatic nerve myelin. Staining with periodic acid-Schiff reagent shows that in addition to P0 protein (mol. wt. 28,000), the major glycoprotein of peripheral nerve, myelin, there are several minor glycoprotein components in both the high and low molecular weight regions.
Microbial endocrinology and infectious disease in the 21st century

More than 70 years ago, a new age in endocrinology was just beginning with the first purification of a hormone, adrenaline. As early as 1930, almost immediately following its first use, cases of adrenaline-associated sepsis were reported. From this time, there have been reports associating the elaboration of neuroendocrine hormones, such as adrenaline, with infectious disease. The most widely accepted theory to explain the ability of hormones to influence the course of infection involves the suppression of the immune system. The theory that the infectious microorganism itself might be equally responsive to the host's neuroendocrine environment has not been considered. It is the intent of this article to introduce a new perspective to the current understanding of the factors that mediate the ability of bacteria to cause disease, and to demonstrate that neuroendocrinology and microbiology intersect to form the interdisciplinary field of microbial endocrinology.
Sex role orientation and dimensions of self-esteem among middle adolescents

A questionnaire study of 229 high-school students examined the relationship between sex role orientation and various dimensions of self-esteem. The results provide strong support for the masculinity model self-esteem, especially for females. Multivariate analyses of variance revealed the following: (a) females perceived themselves to be significantly more socially competent than males; (b) males perceived themselves to be more physically competent than females; (c) adolescents high on masculinity perceived themselves to be significantly more socially competent, physically competent, and to have higher general self-esteem than those low on masculinity; (d) males and females high on masculinity perceived themselves to be significantly more physically competent and to have higher general self-esteem than females low on masculinity, although males low on masculinity did not differ significantly from any of the other interaction groups. Regression analyses by gender revealed the following: (a) the contribution of masculinity to social competence was much greater for females than for males, (b) the contribution of masculinity to physical competence was much greater for females than for males, and (c) the contribution of masculinity to general self-esteem was much greater for females than for males. In summary, for males, gender may override the impact of sex role orientation, while among females the impact of sex role orientation may be accentuated.
Skeletal Muscle MAO Activity in the Major Psychoses: Relationship With Platelet and Plasma MAO Activities

• The skeletal muscle MAO activity of schizophrenics and patients with bipolar and unipolar affective psychoses was lower than that of normal controls. Both platelet and plasma MAO actvity was significantly lower in the schizophrenics and patients with undiagnosed psychoses than in the normal controls. platelet and plasma MAO activities were not correlated with skeletal muscle MAO activity. Both human platelet and skeletal muscle MAO are type B MAO and have similar kinetic constants. The decrease in skeletal muscle MAO activity in various types of psychotic patients is consistent with previous suggestions based on platelet studies that low MAO activity may be a nonspecific factor contributing to the development of different forms of psychopathology. Since total skeletal muscle MAO activity is the largest source of MAO in the body, it is possible that the decrease in muscle MAO activity may lead to excessive quantities of biogenic amines that could adversely affect neural activity.
Titanium Dioxide Nanomaterials and Their Energy Applications

Abstract Here we briefly introduce the synthesis, properties, modifications, and energy applications of titanium dioxide nanomaterials. This introduction surveys their synthetic methods (sol/sol-gel, hydro/solvo-thermal, oxidation, deposition, sonochemical, and microwave-assisted approaches), their structural and thermodynamic properties, their modifications (doping and sensitizing), and their applications in photocatalysis, photovoltaics and solar water splitting.
Creating Institutions for Applying Peace Research

In a previous issue of this Journal Rapoport (1970) discussed the problems and prospects of making peace research an "applied science." After examining the institutional structure in which peace research exists, and the possibilities and limitations which that structure offers for applying peace research findings, Rapoport outlined a course of action which could, he suggested, lead to an "applied science of peace." In reply Kent (1971) disagreed with a number of Rapoport's points and offered an alternative course of action for increasing the application of peace research findings. The purpose of this paper is twofold: to try to clarify the major points of disagreement between Kent and Rapoport, and to offer a third direction in which peace researchers can work to apply research findings.
Modeling of solute sorption by polyvinyl chloride plastic infusion bags

Methods for estimating the equilibrium and time-dependent sorption of solutes by polymeric containers have been developed. The methods are specifically applied to the sorption of solutes by polyvinyl chloride (PVC) infusion bags. The methods correlate the partition coefficients and dissociation constant (when appropriate) of the solute, the physical dimensions of the container, and solution pH with single parameters that dictate the shape of the sorption profile. To determine the equilibrium sorption level for PVC containers, the fractional binding of a solute is correlated with its hexane-water and octanol-water partition coefficients. Calculations based on single partition coefficients are less effective in terms of mimicking the behavior of the PVC. To determine the sorption profile (fractional binding versus time), the partition coefficients are related to the fraction binding at a particular time through a single parameter referred to as the sorption number. Equilibrium fractional binding and sorption profiles for various drugs stored in PVC containers are generated with the models and agree well with reported behavior. The effect of pH on the sorption process is also examined.
Lead isotope ratio measurements: a potential method for bullet identification.

The use of lead isotope ratio measurements for bullet individualization is discussed. The wide variation found in the isotopic composition of lead, which changes with the place of origin of lead ore, has been used in the solution of archeological problems and for the determination of sources of lead particulates in polluted atmospheres. The fact that bullet slugs are nearly pure lead suggests the application of isotope ratio analysis to bullet identification. Experimental results of a limited number of analyses of bullet lead are presented ; however, a great deal of further experimental work is required.
6:2 Fluorotelomer alcohol (6:2 FTOH) biodegradation by multiple microbial species under different physiological conditions

Factors affecting microbial aerobic biodegradation of 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol [6:2 FTOH, F(CF₂)₆CH₂CH₂OH] were investigated using three alkane-degrading bacteria (Mycobacterium vaccae JOB5, Pseudomonas oleovorans, and Pseudomonas butanovora) and one fluoroacetate-degrading bacterium (Pseudomonas fluorescens DSM 8341). In the presence of formate (an external reducing energy source), P. fluorescens DSM 8341 produced perfluorobutanoic acid by removing three -CF₂- groups from 6:2 FTOH. Only P. fluorescens DSM 8341 transformed 5:3 acid to 4:3 acid and perfluoropentanoic acid. However, formate showed no effects on the degradation rates, patterns, or transformation products of 6:2 FTOH by M. vaccae JOB5. When dicyclopropylketone (an alkane hydroxylase inducer) or formate was added, P. oleovorans rapidly degraded 6:2 FTOH and produced PFPeA. In the presence of lactate, P. butanovora degraded 6:2 FTOH slowly but produced diverse metabolites. Our results demonstrate that the extent and mechanisms of 6:2 FTOH biotransformation are affected by strain types, enzyme inducers, and levels of reducing energy.
Novel Pancreatic Endocrine Maturation Pathways Identified by Genomic Profiling and Causal Reasoning

We have used a previously unavailable model of pancreatic development, derived in vitro from human embryonic stem cells, to capture a time-course of gene, miRNA and histone modification levels in pancreatic endocrine cells. We investigated whether it is possible to better understand, and hence control, the biological pathways leading to pancreatic endocrine formation by analysing this information and combining it with the available scientific literature to generate models using a casual reasoning approach. We show that the embryonic stem cell differentiation protocol is highly reproducible in producing endocrine precursor cells and generates cells that recapitulate many aspects of human embryonic pancreas development, including maturation into functional endocrine cells when transplanted into recipient animals. The availability of whole genome gene and miRNA expression data from the early stages of human pancreatic development will be of great benefit to those in the fields of developmental biology and diabetes research. Our causal reasoning algorithm suggested the involvement of novel gene networks, such as NEUROG3/E2F1/KDM5B and SOCS3/STAT3/IL-6, in endocrine cell development We experimentally investigated the role of the top-ranked prediction by showing that addition of exogenous IL-6 could affect the expression of the endocrine progenitor genes NEUROG3 and NKX2.2.
Positive selection drives rapid evolution of certain amino acid residues in an evolutionarily highly conserved interferon-inducible antiviral protein of fishes

Viperin, an evolutionarily highly conserved interferon-inducible multifunctional protein, has previously been reported to exhibit antiviral activity against a wide range of DNA and RNA viruses. Utilizing the complete nucleotide coding sequence data of fish viperin antiviral genes, and employing the maximum likelihood-based codon substitution models, the present study reports the pervasive role of positive selection in the evolution of viperin antiviral protein in fishes. The overall rate of nonsynonymous (dN) to synonymous (dS) substitutions (dN/dS) for the three functional domains of viperin (N-terminal, central domain and C-terminal) were 1.1, 0.12, and 0.24, respectively. Codon-by-codon substitution analyses have revealed that while most of the positively selected sites were located at the N-terminal amphipathic α-helix domain, few amino acid residues at the C-terminal domain were under positive selection. However, none of the sites in the central domain were under positive selection. These results indicate that, although viperin is evolutionarily highly conserved, the three functional domains experienced differential selection pressures. Taken together with the results of previous studies, the present study suggests that the persistent antagonistic nature of surrounding infectious viral pathogens might be the likely cause for such adaptive evolutionary changes of certain amino acids in fish viperin antiviral protein.
Inversion mode display of 3D sonography: applications in obstetric and gynecologic imaging.

OBJECTIVE. Three-dimensional sonography involves volume acquisitions of sonographic data that can be displayed in a variety of ways, including surface rendering and multiplanar reconstruction. A new method of displaying sonographic volumes is called the inversion mode, which displays the cystic portions within the entire volume as echogenic areas. The grayscale portion of the image becomes transparent, and the cystic areas become brightly visible in three dimensions.CONCLUSION. This article shows the applications for this method of volume sonography display and shows the importance of being able to visualize all of the cystic areas concurrently within a volume.