cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Changes in ownership structure

Abstract This study analyzes both the causes and effects of mutual S&L conversions to corporate charter. Changes in technology and government policies have substantially increased S&L competition, riskbearing, and potential scale and scope economies. Evidence indicates that these changes have decreased the relative operating advantages of mutual S&Ls, encouraging conversions to stock charter. The S&L's financial and operating characteristics, which affect the success of the conversion effort, are also explored.
Strain dependency of TGFβ1 function during embryogenesis

There is incomplete penetrance to Tgfb1 knockout phenotypes. About 50% of Tgfb1 homozygous mutant (Tgfb1−/−) and 25% of Tgfb1 heterozygous (Tgfb1+/−) embryos die during embryogenesis. In a mixed NIH/Ola × C57BL/6J/Ola × 129 background partial embryonic lethality of the Tgfb1−/− embryos occurs due to defective yolk sac vasculopoiesis and/or hematopoiesis. We show here that on a predominantly CF-1 genetic background, lack of TGFβ1 causes a pre-morula lethality in about 50% of the null embryos. This partial lethality is not reversed by transfer of Tgfb1−/− embryos to Tgfb1+/+ hosts. The extent of embryonic lethality in Tgfb1−/− embryos ranges in a background dependent manner from 20% to 100%. Based on these and other studies it is clear that TGFβ1 acts at two distinct phases of embryogenesis: pre-implantation development and yolk sac vasculogenesis/hematopoiesis. The susceptibility for the pre-implantation lethality depends on a small number of genetic modifiers since a small number of backcrosses onto the high susceptibility strain C57BL/6 leads to complete penetrance of the lethality. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 52:341–349, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Observing and Calibration Strategies for FIR Imaging with SIRTF

We present data from a 16×32 array of unstressed Ge:Gadetectors, showing the long time constant responses and hook effectcharacteristic of these devices. This array is half the size of the70 μm imaging array planned for MIPS, the Multiband ImagingPhotometer for SIRTF. We present simulations of the FIR (farinfrared) sky as viewed by a MIPS array, including realistic noiseeffects and extraction of point sources with a standard photometrypackage, showing that the photometric goals of MIPS are attainablewith the current array performance and using standard analysistechniques. Previous calculations by Heim et al. (1998) haddetermined that MIPS would achieve 5-σ detections of ≤1 mJy at 70 μm in 2000 s; the simulations presented hereobtain results consistent with those calculations.
Public Goods and the Causal Effect of Expected Cooperation in Representative Samples

When do societies succeed or fail to provide public goods? Previous research emphasizes that cooperation in public goods games correlates with expectations about cooperation by others among students and other selected demographic subgroups. So far, however, we lack knowledge about whether this reciprocity effect is causal and a general feature of populations. We fielded large-scale representative surveys (N=8,500) in France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States that included a public goods game in combination with a novel randomized experiment and a survey instrument eliciting individual's conditional contribution schedules. We find that higher expected cooperation by others causes a significant increase in individual contributions. We also find that positive reciprocity is much more widespread among richer, younger and more educated respondents. Therefore, socio-demographic characteristics matter for understanding behavior in social dilemmas because of their association with social norms of conditional cooperation.
A radiation hardened 1-M bit SRAM on SIMOX material

SOI technology and design combine to give a high performance radiation hardened 1M SRAM manufacturable at the 0.8 /spl mu/m technology node. Features include a nominal 23 ns access time and a worst case minimum Write pulse of less than 15 ns, along with total dose and transient dose hardness, resistance to single event upset, and latch-up immunity. Detailed characterization results are presented in this paper.
Clustered Genes for Galactose Metabolism from Streptococcus mutans Cloned in Escherichia coli

Abstract DNA cloned into Escherichia coli from a serotype c strain of Streptococcus mutans allowed a galKTE mutant to utilize galactose for growth. However, the DNA does not appear to encode enzymes of the Leloir pathway used by E. coli, but rather appears to encode enzymes of the tagatose phosphate pathway.
An improved high-resolution solar reference spectrum for earth's atmosphere measurements in the ultraviolet, visible, and near infrared

Abstract We have developed an improved solar reference spectrum for use in the analysis of atmospheric spectra from vacuum wavelengths of 200.07 through 1000.99 nm. The spectrum is developed by combining high spectral resolution ground-based and balloon-based solar measurements with lower spectral resolution but higher accuracy irradiance information. The new reference spectrum replaces our previous reference spectrum, and its derivatives, for use in a number of physical applications for analysis of atmospheric spectra, including: wavelength calibration; determination of instrument transfer (slit) functions; Ring effect (Raman scattering) correction; and correction for spectral undersampling of atmospheric spectra, particularly those that are dilute in absorbers. The applicability includes measurements from the GOME, SCIAMACHY, OMI, and OMPS satellite instruments as well as aircraft-, balloon-, and ground-based measurements.
Progress in optical imaging theory for trenches and lines

We have been developing imaging theory for the confocal microscope and for interferometric microscopes. We are particularly interested in developing techniques for improving the accuracy of measurements of the width of trenches and lines in arrays of photoresist lines and trenches. We are also interested in using the theory to help us interpret phase measurements of phase shift masks with our interferometric microscope, the correlation microscope, as described in an accompanying paper. The aim is to get down to the smallest critical dimensions possible, in the 0.3 micrometers range, and to eliminate the discontinuities sometimes seen in measurements of trenches and lines; these discontinuities are due to resonances of the optical waves in the structure. Since a wide number of well characterized samples is not usually obtainable, this theory is extremely useful for understanding how the various features of a structure affect the form of cloud plots and linescans. A basic aim is to use the theoretical calculations to train pattern recognition algorithms and to determine how the shape and size of trenches and lines influence the form of the linescans and cloud plots we observe. It is particularly important to understand whether pattern recognition algorithms, which make use of the whole cloud plot rather than thresholding on a single linescan, are only using the information from the top of a trench or line. We need to determine whether linescans at all levels are, in fact, influenced by the size at the top and bottom of a trench or line. In this paper, we show that this is indeed the case, and that the theory is fairly adequate at the present time to give a fairly good representation of experimental results.
CHANGING TRENDS IN UROLOGY PRACTICE: INCREASING OUTPATIENT SURGERY

This study was performed to assess the changes occurring in the field of urology with developments in outpatient surgery during a 5 year period. Using ICD-9-CM code, data for all urology procedures performed in the main operating rooms, day surgery and laser centre operating rooms of a large, general hospital were collected for the years 1987-92. A substitution index (SI) was determined as the ratio of the number of outpatients to the total number of procedures and expressed as a percentage. Changes in the SI reflects the degree to which emphasis has shifted from conventional inpatient to outpatient surgery. It was found that 26% of urology procedures were being performed as outpatients in 1987, and this increased to 42% by 1992. When broken down according to organ, the greatest increase in SI from 1987 to 1992 was for the kidney (57%) and the least, the penis (2%), with ureter, urethra, testes and scrotum all revealing intermediate, but significant, increases (27, 28 and 24% respectively). This paper thus demonstrates that, as in other fields, urology has experienced a marked increase in outpatient surgery. With developments in surgical and anaesthetic techniques, financial pressures, changing physician and patient attitudes and technological advances, further increases in urology outpatient care can be expected.
Streptobacillus moniliformis Endocarditis: Case Report and Review

A 46-year-old man with rat-bite fever due to Streptobacillus moniliformis that was complicated by endocarditis is reported. Other unusual features of this case include septic arthritis with prominent involvement of the sternoclavicular joint and the absence of a rash. Sixteen cases of streptobacillary endocarditis have previously been described. This condition occurs most often in the setting of previously damaged heart valves, usually as a result of rheumatic heart disease. Echocardiography demonstrated valvular vegetations in two of the four cases in which it was performed. Embolic phenomena are rare, and therapy with adequate doses of penicillin is usually curative.
Alfalfa Subsp. Sativa by Falcata Intersubspecific Semi-Hybrid Seed Production Using Alfalfa Leafcutter Bees

ABSTRACT Intersubspecific sativa by falcata alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) hybrids offer a means of improving alfalfa dry-matter yields. The alfalfa leafcutter bee (Megachile rotundata F.) is a major pollinator used in alfalfa seed production in North America. Alfalfa leafcutter bees have a pollinator preference for purple-flowered subsp. sativa plants over the yellow-flowered subsp. falcata plants. This study was conducted to quantify the pollinator preference by observing the amount of hybrid seed produced using alfalfa leafcutter bees. Two pollination environments and three different proportions of falcata parents in pollination cages (50%, 75%, and 90%) were included to determine shifts in quantities of hybrid seed produced due to environment and/or pollinator subsp. falcata flower availability. Total and hybrid seed amounts and seed size differed between environments. Seed size differences were observed between subspecies. Hybrid seed yields were 57% of expected hybridity on an experiment mean basis. I...
Exploring Food Insecurity Among Young Mothers (15-24 Years)

PURPOSE. The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of food insecurity of young mothers (15–24 years) and identify strategies used to manage food-insecure periods. DESIGN AND METHODS. This exploratory study used the U.S. Household Food Security Survey Module, cognitive interviewing, and individual interviews. RESULTS. Sixteen out of 21 young mothers indicated that they fluctuated between low food insecurity (reduced desirability of diet), and all 21 participants reported some days of food insufficiency (anxiety over shortage of food). All the women reported that their children had only marginal food insecurity due to extensive strategies. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Nutrition counseling must include food insecurity assessment.
Genetic relationships among and selection for rice yield and yield components

Genetic correlations provide useful information to plant breeders for developing selection schemes. Genetic correlations among yield and yield components (panicle number, panicle weight, panicle length, primary branches, and plant height) for U.S. southern long-grain rice (Oryza sativa L.) have not been reported. The objectives of this work were to estimate and use genetic correlations in developing selection methodologies in rice breeding programs (.)
REFLECTIONS ON JEFFREY C. ALEXANDER'S THE CIVIL SPHERE

The Civil Sphere is truly a masterful and groundbreaking work, the rare and ambitious kind that does not just contribute to one of the many ongoing conversations in sociology, but brings them toget...
Polymorphic Deletion of Three Intracellular Acidic Residues of the α2B-Adrenergic Receptor Decreases G Protein-coupled Receptor Kinase-mediated Phosphorylation and Desensitization

A polymorphic variant of the human α2B-adrenergic receptor (α2BAR), which consists of a deletion of three glutamic acids (residues 301–303) in the third intracellular loop was found to be common in Caucasians (31%) and to a lesser extent in African-Americans (12%). The consequences of this deletion were assessed by expressing wild-type and the Del301–303 receptors in Chinese hamster ovary and COS cells. Ligand binding was not affected, although a small decrease in coupling efficiency to the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase was observed with the mutant. The deletion occurs within a stretch of acidic residues that is thought to establish the milieu for agonist-promoted phosphorylation and desensitization of the receptor by G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs). Agonist-promoted phosphorylation studies carried out in cells coexpressing the α2BARs and GRK2 revealed that the Del301–303 receptor displayed ∼56% of wild-type phosphorylation. Furthermore, the depressed phosphorylation imposed by the deletion was found to result in a complete loss of short term agonist-promoted receptor desensitization. Thus the major phenotype of the Del301–303 α2BAR is one of impaired phosphorylation and desensitization by GRKs, and thus the polymorphisms renders the receptor incapable of modulation by this key mechanism of dynamic regulation.
VE-Cadherin Signaling Induces EB3 Phosphorylation to Suppress Microtubule Growth and Assemble Adherens Junctions

Summary Vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin homophilic adhesion controls endothelial barrier permeability through assembly of adherens junctions (AJs). We observed that loss of VE-cadherin-mediated adhesion induced the activation of Src and phospholipase C (PLC)γ2, which mediated Ca 2+ release from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stores, resulting in activation of calcineurin (CaN), a Ca 2+ -dependent phosphatase. Downregulation of CaN activity induced phosphorylation of serine 162 in end binding (EB) protein 3. This phospho-switch was required to destabilize the EB3 dimer, suppress microtubule (MT) growth, and assemble AJs. The phospho-defective S162A EB3 mutant, in contrast, induced MT growth in confluent endothelial monolayers and disassembled AJs. Thus, VE-cadherin outside-in signaling regulates cytosolic Ca 2+ homeostasis and EB3 phosphorylation, which are required for assembly of AJs. These results identify a pivotal function of VE-cadherin homophilic interaction in modulating endothelial barrier through the tuning of MT dynamics.
Diagnosis of membrane fouling using a rotating annular filter. 1. Cell culture media

Abstract Membrane fouling is dissected into pore narrowing and constriction, pore plugging and deposition of a gel/cake onto the upstream face of a membrane. Using a rotating annular membrane filter as a diagnostic tool, we have identified these fouling components with the aid of pemeation flux-transmembrane pressure plots. The choice of the rotating annular filter is of particular significance since the transmembrane pressure is decoupled from axial flow in this system. The Navier-Stokes equations for azimuthal flow in an annulus with a porous wall on the rotating inner cylinder is solved for the narrow-gap approximation and with several other reasonable simplifications. This solution is used to analyse the data by plotting the flux versus the actual transmembrane pressure and accounting for the centrifugal pressure. Universal plots for all rotational speeds are observed for deionized water and for fouling solutions containing interacting solutes that are relatively small compared to the mean pore size of the membrane. Pore narrowing, constriction and plugging are the dominant forms of fouling in this case. This type of fouling manifests itself in the flux-pressure diagram as a decease in the slope of a linear plot. We model these effects with the help of the approach of Meireles et al. [J. Membrane Sci. 56 (1991) 13] and correct and extend their formalism with explicit solutions. One such explicit solution for the ratio of the flux-pressure slopes is particularly useful for estimating the number of adsorbed monolayers of a molecule of known dimensions. Without a detailed understanding of solute deposition on the membrane upstream face and its effect on the flux versus transmembrane pressure, we invoke a phenomenological approach to obtain a useful model for describing this phenomenon as a function of rotational speed. This approach is appropriate for solutions containing solutes or their aggregates that are relatively large compared to the mean pore size of the membrane. Surface deposition onto the upstream face of the membrane is the dominant mechanism of fouling. This type of fouling manifests itself in the flux-pressure diagram as a continuously decreasing slope or convex Langmuir-like profile. The approach assumes that the resistance to flow through the gel/cake is dependent on transmembrane pressure and inversely dependent on rotational speed. In summary, transmembrane pressure is used to (i) force fluid through the clean membrane, (ii) overcome the added resistance to flow resulting from pore narrowing and constriction, pore plugging and (iii) overcome a serial resistance to flow due to the build-up of a gel/cake through solute deposition on the upstream face of the membrane.
The Newest Oldest Data From Seasat's Synthetic Aperture Radar

A new suite of digital synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery, featuring historic views of Earth's oceans, sea ice, volcanoes, forests, glaciers, and more, was made available in its entirety for the first time by the Alaska Satellite Facility (ASF) in midsummer 2013.
Effectiveness of Turkish Disaster Management System and Recommendations

ABSTRACTTurkey has always been vulnerable to various kinds of natural disasters because of its geology, topography and meteorological conditions. It is at risk from a range of complex emergencies. Statistically, a large-scale disaster happens every seven to eight years. Earthquakes, landslides, floods, drought, rock falls and avalanches are the main natural disasters. Deforestation and soil erosions exacerbate these disasters. Earthquakes account for 97 per cent of deaths and injuries caused by natural disasters.In Turkey many problems in organizing a proper disaster management and response system are institutional and organizational. Absence of a single organizational structure focused on disaster management, including all disaster management aspects, dramatically exacerbated the impacts of disasters. The study is concentrate on institutional actors and deal with issues of coordinating disaster management aspects considering the past experiences.
THEORETICAL INVESTIGATION OF UNIMOLECULAR DECOMPOSITION CHANNELS OF FURAN4

Density functional theory and high-level ab initio calculations were carried out to investigate three unimolecular decomposition channels of furan. All equilibrium and transition state structures along the proposed decomposition channels are fully optimized by B3LYP/6-31G** and characterized at the same level of theory by vibrational and intrinsic reaction coordinate analyses. Relative energies of the optimized structures were evaluated at theoretical levels up to QCISD(T)/6-311++G**. The theoretical results suggest that the unimolecular decomposition channel of isoxazole, proposed in an experimental study and implied to be the main decomposition channel of furan, is responsible only for the formation of HC(TRIPLE BOND)CH and H2O(DOUBLE BOND)C(DOUBLE BOND)O, minor products of furan thermal decomposition. A new decomposition mechanism, proposed in the present study, is shown to be more likely responsible for the formation of CH3C(TRIPLE BOND)CH and CO, major products of furan thermal decomposition. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Comput Chem 19: 240–249, 1998
The de novo design of protein structures

We thank the researchers mentioned here for their comments on this manuscript, and especially our collaborators Bruce Erickson, Richard Ogden and Michael Hecht, without whom betabellin and felix could not have become realities. Our design work was supported by the NIH Institute of General Medicinal Sciences, and also by the Office of Naval Research, the Life Sciences Foundation, and the MacArthur Foundation. The copyright for the figures is held by JSR.
Cost and Survival Analysis of Metastatic Cerebral Tumors Treated by Resection and Radiation

ABSTRACTTHE SURGICAL TREATMENT of metastatic brain tumors remains controversial, primarily because of the limited prognosis of patients with metastatic cancer. The cost effectiveness of even standard therapies is of increasing concern to third-party payers. We reviewed the records of patients who ha
Design of a pattern null reconfigurable antenna

The design of a pattern null reconfigurable element suitable for modern adaptive arrays is presented. Unlike existing null reconfigurable antennas, this antenna is compact and does not require a reconfigurable feed network in its operation, thus reducing its cost and complexity. The antenna performance has been characterized through both simulation and measurement and significant tilts in the pattern null are observed across the impedance bandwidth.
Cutaneous absorption and decontamination of [3H]T-2 toxin in the rat model.

Cutaneous absorption and decontamination of [3H]T‐2 mycotoxin using various treatment modalities incorporating water, detergent, sprays, and scrubbing of application sites were examined in the rat model at 5, 30, 60, and 1440 min (24 h) postexposure. Rats were killed immediately after treatment and radiolabeled T‐2 remaining in full‐thickness skin samples was determined. Absorption and decontamination were followed over time, and decontaminating treatment modalities were evaluated for efficacy. Less than 1% of the applied dose was absorbed in 5 min, and 50% was absorbed in 24 h. At 5 min, 99.5 ± 0.05% of nonabsorbed (residual) [3H]T‐2 was removed, and 58 ± 5.2% of residual toxin was removed at 24 h with a 2.5% detergent/water spray. When treatment modalities were evaluated at 60 min, a 2.5% detergent/water scrub followed by a detergent/water spray produced optimal decontamination by removing 81 ± 2.2% of residual toxin. All treatment modalities using detergent and/or water removed significant amounts of t...
Head and neck applications of the milliwatt laser

The head and neck surgeon often uses the carbon dioxide laser. With the advent of new instrumentation, the frequency of usage will increase. The CO2 miliwatt laser offers the advantages of tissue welding, as well as cutting and ablation by virtue of the small spot size produced combined with low power output. Potential applications include microvascular and microneural anastomoses. The milliwatt laser can be used endoscopically for tissue resection with a high degree of precision with power densities comparable to current CO2 lasers. Moreover, the milliwatt laser can be applied to otology for cutting and welding of the tympanic membrane, tissue removal, and stapedotomy.
Does Democracy Increase Suicide and Homicide Rates

Changes in the measures for the level of democracy in 34 nations from 1965 to 1980 were positively associated with the percentage change in the homicide rate over 30 nations.
Observational Learning of Comprehension Monitoring Skills in Children Who Exhibit Mental Retardation.

An observational learning paradigm was used to instruct 5 children with mild or moderate mental retardation to monitor their comprehension of inadequate instructions. Instructions were inadequate because of an interfering signal, an unfamiliar word, excessive length, or an unfamiliar idiomatic phrase. Subjects’ peers served as models during the training. A multiple baseline design across subjects and across instruction types was employed. All subjects learned to request clarification of the first three inadequate instructions; however, none of the children learned to request clarification of idiomatic phrases. Although all children eventually demonstrated observational learning, three children required feedback from the trainer before they began to request clarification for one or two of the instruction types. Two children generalized their requesting behavior to the interfering signal message type, suggesting that generalization may be likely to occur between similar message types. During posttesting all...
New collagen formation after dermal remodeling with an intense pulsed light source.

BACKGROUND : Laser resurfacing in the treatment of facial rhytides has traditionally involved ablative methods with their associated complications and limitations. More recently, rhytid improvement and dermal remodeling has been seen with non-ablative approaches. Such laser-induced remodeling may be associated with evidence of new dermal collagen formation. OBJECTIVE : The aim of this study was to evaluate the histologic changes seen after dermal remodeling with a non-laser intense pulsed light source. METHODS : Five patients underwent four sessions of dermal remodeling with an intense pulsed light source. All patients received a pretreatment biopsy and a second biopsy 6 months after the final treatment. Biopsies were evaluated for histologic evidence of new collagen formation 6 months after the final treatment. RESULTS : All patients showed histologic evidence of new upper papillary dermal collagen formation. CONCLUSION : Dermal remodeling with an intense pulsed light source can lead to histologic eviden...
Hodgkin’s disease with fulminant non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

Abstract We report a woman with daily febrile episodes who developed fulminant hepatic failure. A percutaneous liver biopsy demonstrated non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, with no evidence of neoplastic infiltration. Post-mortem examination revealed stage IV Hodgkin’s disease with trivial liver involvement. Rapidly progressive steatohepatitis causing acute liver failure may be a paraneoplastic presentation of Hodgkin’s disease, possibly mediated by cytokines.
Surgical therapy for colorectal metastases to the liver

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in the West and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Approximately 35 to 55% of patients with colorectal cancer develop hepatic metastases during the course of their disease. Surgical resection of colorectal liver metastases represents the only chance at potential cure, and long-term survival can be achieved in 35 to 58% of patients after resection. The goal of hepatic resection should be to resect all metastases with negative histologic margins while preserving sufficient functional hepatic parenchyma. In patients with extensive metastatic disease who would otherwise be unresectable, ablative approaches can be used instead of or combined with hepatic resection. The use of portal vein embolization and preoperative chemotherapy may also expand the population of patients who are candidates for surgical treatment. Despite these advances, many patients still experience a recurrence after hepatic resection. More active systemic chemotherapy agents are now available and are being increasingly employed as adjuvant therapy either before or after surgery. Modern treatment of colorectal liver metastasis requires a multidisciplinary approach in an effort to increase the number of patients who may benefit from surgical treatment of colorectal cancer liver metastasis.
Why Victims of Intimate Partner Violence Withdraw Protection Orders

While reasons for returning to abusive partners have received considerable attention in research on intimate partner violence, few studies have examined the reasons why victims fail to follow through with the protection order process, regardless of whether or not they return to their abusive partners. Fifty-five women who were in the process of withdrawing a protection order against a male intimate partner were surveyed in the present analysis. Recognizing that reasons given for withdrawing a protection order often follow common themes, individual responses were organized into several “domains,” or groupings of such reasons. The most commonly cited domain involved a “concrete change” on behalf of the victim or defendant, which made the protection order less necessary in the victim’s view. This was closely followed by the domain addressing emotional attachment to the abuser. Implications for future research and policy are discussed.
The structures of MsbA: Insight into ABC transporter-mediated multidrug efflux

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are integral membrane proteins that couple ATP hydrolysis to the transport of various molecules across cellular membranes. Found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, a sub-group of these transporters are involved in the efflux of hydrophobic drugs and lipids, causing anti-microbial and chemotherapeutic multidrug resistance. In this review, we examine recent structural and functional analysis of the ABC transporter MsbA and implications on the mechanism of multidrug efflux.
Patterns of ionic currents around the developing oocyte of the German cockroach, Blattella germanica

The development of patterns of current around vitellogenic oocytes of the cockroach, Blattella germanica, was examined by means of a two-dimensional vibrating probe. Previtellogenic oocytes exhibited small unstable currents. Shortly after vitellogenic uptake began (oocytes 0.6–0.8 mm anterior to posterior) currents were either all inward or all outward at the plane of measurement. A dorsoventral pattern of currents was first observed around oocytes a little larger than 0.8 mm. Current exited dorsally (source) and entered ventrally (sink). In these oocytes source and sink were small, less than half the anterior-posterior length. As oocytes grew, relative sizes of source and sink increased until they extended across the major part of dorsal and ventral surfaces. Many late vitellogenic oocytes had a pattern of dorsal outward current with a bimodal distribution. At the onset of chorionation measured currents were again small, unstable, and exhibited no well-defined pattern. Current density was greatest during midvitellogenesis.
Ethanol enhancement of the motor-stimulating effect of nicotine in the rat

Although ethanol stimulates locomotion in mice, it has been difficult to demonstrate such an action in rats. In contrast, nicotine has been shown to enhance locomotion, including ipsiversive rotation in nigral-lesioned rats. We found no significant effect of ethanol alone on rat rotation at doses of 0.125, 0.50, 1.0, and 2.0 g/kg, IP, during a 30-min observation period. However, there was a dose-dependent effect of ethanol enhancing the rotation induced by nicotine (0.4 mg/kg, SC) given 30 min after the ethanol. The interaction of ethanol and nicotine on locomotion most likely involves the release of dopamine and may be related to the motor abnormalities sometimes seen clinically.
Biomechanics of Vertebroplasty

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. It affects 15–20 million women in the United States. Fractures of the vertebrae, wrist and hip are the most common. [1] In the spine, osteoporosis greatly affects the bone mass of the vertebral bodies (VB), the primary structures for transmitting loads in the spine. The VB is comprised of a shell of dense bone surrounding a more porous bony tissue called trabecular bone. Trabecular bone is a lattice-like network of trabeculae in the shape of plates or rods, depending on orientation and one’s age. When the weakened trabecular structure experiences a loss of height, acute back pain, spinal cord compression, and overall loss of mobility can ensue. A single fracture creates a region of high stress in the trabecular network, often leading to more fractures. In almost 20% of the cases one fracture in a VB may result in a secondary fracture within a one year period. [2] Many fractures go unnoticed. The high occurrence, frequent uncertainty of fracture, and gravity of subsequent injury indicate a need to improve the strength of osteoporotic vertebrae before damage can occur. It may be desirable to treat weakened bone prior to fracture. One candidate for prevention that is investigated in this study is vertebroplasty. Currently, the procedure is used to repair fractured VB by injecting acrylic bone cement into the affected level. A parametric finite element (FE) investigation and supporting experimental study was conducted to evaluate the usefulness of vertebroplasty as a preventative treatment.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Compact-electron-beam or light-ion-beam fusion reactor cavity design using non-spherical blast waves

The application of inhomogeneous cavity gas densities and the non-spherical blast wave resulting from an explosion in this gas offers the potential to reduce the distance between the final diode and the target in a relativistic-electron-beam (REB) or light-ion beam (LIB) fusion reactor. It can also sharply reduce the overpressure experienced by the diode after the target explosion.
Bidirectional scatter measurements of a guided-mode resonant filter photonic crystal structure

This work investigates the Bidirectional Scatter Distribution Function (BSDF) at incident angles other than normal and at 544-nm wavelength of a Guided Mode Resonance Filter (GMRF) Photonic Crystal (PC) structure designed for normally incident light at 532 nm. Strong out-coupling of PC diffraction orders into both the transmitted and reflected hemispheres was observed specifically at a 25.7° incidence angle, which we attribute to this incident angle/wavelength pair being a good match to the ( ± 1, 0) PC grating mode. BSDF measurements at incident angles of 15° and 35° also displayed some out-coupled diffraction, though much lower in magnitude, and are also attributed to being a weaker match to the ( ± 1, 0) PC grating mode. Three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain Maxwell's equation simulations demonstrate that since this GMRF was designed for complete destructive interference of the transmitted light upon normal incidence, stronger out-coupling of the diffraction is expected for modal solutions as the angle of incidence increases.
Numerical simulation of a free-burning argon arc with copper evaporation from the anode

A free-burning, high-intensity argon arc at atmospheric pressure was modeled during the evaporation of copper vapor from the anode to study the impact of the vapor to the entire plasma region. A uniform and a Gaussian radial velocity distribution are adopted for the copper vapor at the anode boundary with a net mass flow rate known from the experiment. The effect of both velocity distributions on the temperature, mass flow, current flow, and Cu concentration was studied for the entire plasma region. The cathode region is not affected by the evaporated copper, and the Cu vapor concentration in the arc core is negligible.
Travel Time Information Using Global Positioning System and Dynamic Segmentation Techniques

The architecture and application of an updated methodology based on the Global Positioning System (GPS) for conducting travel time studies are described. The methodology is called Travel Time with GPS (TTG). TTG uses a general data model that includes a spatial model, a geographic relational database, and a procedure for linearly referencing GPS data using dynamic segmentation tools. This architecture allows users to conduct travel time studies at various levels of resolution (from regionwide studies down to studies of signalized intersections). The data reduction and data reporting for such a system are outlined. Data reduction is based on linear referencing of GPS data using highway links, where highway links are defined as vector representations of directional centerlines delimited by physical discontinuities. Data reporting is based on the use of dynamic segmentation tools to compute travel time and speed along highway corridors using any highway segmentation scheme. The resulting aggregated data can ...
CHANDRA OBSERVATIONS OF THE RADIO GALAXY 3C 445 AND THE HOT SPOT X-RAY EMISSION MECHANISM

We present new Chandra observations of the radio galaxy 3C 445, centered on its southern radio hot spot. Our observations detect X-ray emission displaced upstream and to the west of the radio-optical hot spot. Attempting to reproduce both the observed spectral energy distribution and the displacement excludes all one-zone models. Modeling of the radio-optical hot spot spectrum suggests that the electron distribution has a low-energy cutoff or break approximately at the proton rest mass energy. The X-rays could be due to external Compton scattering of the cosmic microwave background coming from the fast (Lorentz factor Γ ≈ 4) part of a decelerating flow, but this requires a small angle between the jet velocity and the observer's line of sight (θ ≈ 14°). Alternatively, the X-ray emission can be synchrotron from a separate population of electrons. This last interpretation does not require the X-ray emission to be beamed.
Inflation and inflation uncertainty in Argentina, 1810–2005

Abstract Unit root tests results suggest that inflation in Argentina for the period 1810–2005 is a stationary series when account is taken of structural breaks that coincide with bouts of hyperinflation. A GARCH (1,1) model of annual inflation suggests a positive short-run relation between the mean and variance of inflation, supporting Friedman's hypothesis that high inflation is associated with more variable inflation.
Good fences make for good neighbors but bad science: a review of what improves Bayesian reasoning and why

Bayesian reasoning, defined here as the updating of a posterior probability following new information, has historically been problematic for humans. Classic psychology experiments have tested human Bayesian reasoning through the use of word problems and have evaluated each participant’s performance against the normatively correct answer provided by Bayes’ theorem. The standard finding is of generally poor performance. Over the past two decades, though, progress has been made on how to improve Bayesian reasoning. Most notably, research has demonstrated that the use of frequencies in a natural sampling framework —as opposed to single-event probabilities—can improve participants’ Bayesian estimates. Furthermore, pictorial aids and certain individual difference factors also can play significant roles in Bayesian reasoning success. The mechanics of how to build tasks which show these improvements is not under much debate. The explanations for why naturally-sampled frequencies and pictures help Bayesian reasoning remain hotly contested, however, with many researchers falling into ingrained “camps” organized around two dominant theoretical perspectives. The present paper evaluates the merits of these theoretical perspectives, including the weight of empirical evidence, theoretical coherence, and predictive power. By these criteria, the ecological rationality approach is clearly better than the heuristics and biases view. Progress in the study of Bayesian reasoning will depend on continued research that honestly, vigorously, and consistently engages across these different theoretical accounts rather than staying “siloed” within one particular perspective. The process of science requires an understanding of competing points of view, with the ultimate goal being integration.
Model selection techniques for the covariance matrix for incomplete longitudinal data

In longitudinal studies with incomplete data, where the number of time points can become numerous, it is often advantageous to model the covariance matrix. We describe several covariance models (for example, mixed models, compound symmetry, AR(1)-type models, and combination models) that offer parsimonious alternatives to unstructured sigma. We evaluate each covariance model with longitudinal data concerning cholesterol as the repeated outcome measure. We discuss strategies for deciding the 'best' model and show a graphical technique for judging goodness-of-fit of covariance models.
A specialization theorem for analytic functions on compact sets

Abstract We show that analytic functions defined on a neighborhood of a compact connected subset K of the complex plane can be specialized to algebraic functions defined on a neighborhood of K.
The Rheology of Bimodal Mixtures of Colloidal Particles with Long-Range, Soft Repulsions

Abstract The rheological properties of dense suspensions of bimodal mixtures of colloidal particles with long-range, soft repulsions were investigated. Suspensions of particles suspended in 10 −4 M KCl with volume fractions ranging from 0.3–0.6 were studied for volume fraction ratios of large to small particles of 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0. Latex particles of diameters ranging between 105 to 544 nm were used. These particles were stabilized by a combination of electrostatic and short range steric repulsions. Four separate mixtures were investigated with size ratios (large/small) of 1.2–5. At volume fractions investigated, the suspensions displayed dynamic yield stresses, τ y , and shear thinned with increasing stress or shear rate. The yield stress was found to be proportional to the suspension's elastic modulus, with a constant of proportionality lying between 0.015 and 0.03 as has been reported for a wide range of monodisperse suspensions. The functional dependence of stress on shear rate could be reduced to a single master curve which was independent of volume fraction, particle size ratio, and mixing ratio by scaling τ y on G, and the shear rate on G /η c where η c is the continuous phase viscosity. In bimodal suspensions shear thickening accompanied by irreversible aggregation was observed at volume fractions substantially below that measured for monodisperse suspensions. The stress and shear rate at thickening decreased rapidly as the volume fraction of the mixed suspension was increased. These results are substantially different than what has been reported for well-mixed suspensions of particles experiencing “hard” repulsions in that as the fraction of large particles is increased no viscosity minimum is seen at low and intermediate shear rates.
Endoscopic removal of an intraventricular primitive neuroectodermal tumor: retrieval of a free-floating fragment using a urological basket retriever

The endoscopic resection of intraventricular tumors represents a unique challenge to the neurological surgeon. These neoplasms are invested deep within the brain parenchyma and are situated among neurologically vital structures. Additionally, the cerebrospinal fluid system presents a dynamic pathway for resected tumors to be mobilized and entrapped in other regions of the brain. In 2011, the authors treated a 3-year-old girl with a third ventricular mass identified on stereotactic brain biopsy as a WHO Grade IV CNS primitive neuroectodermal tumor. After successful neoadjuvant chemotherapy, endoscopic resection was performed. Despite successful resection of the tumor, the operation was complicated by mobilization of the resected tumor and entrapment in the atrial horn of the lateral ventricle. Using a urological stone basket retriever, the authors were able to retrieve the intact tumor without additional complications. The flexibility afforded by the nitinol urological stone basket was useful in the endosc...
Open system evolution and memory dressing

Due to recent advances in quantum information, as well as in mesoscopic and nanoscale physics, the interest in the theory of open systems and decoherence has significantly increased. In this paper, we present an interesting approach to solving a time-convolutionless equation of motion for the open system reduced density matrix beyond the limit of weak coupling with the environment. Our approach is based on identifying an effective, memory-containing interaction in the equations of motion for the representation submatrices of the evolution operator (these submatices are written in a special basis, adapted for the ``partial-trace-free'' approach, in the $\mathrm{system}+\mathrm{environment}$ Liouville space). We then identify the ``memory dressing,'' a quantity crucial for solving the equation of motion for the reduced density matrix, which separates the effective from the real physical interaction. The memory dressing obeys a self-contained nonlinear equation of motion, which we solve exactly. The solution can be represented in a diagrammatic fashion after introducing an ``information exchange propagator,'' a quantity that describes the transfer of information to and from the system, so the cumulative effect of the information exchange results in the memory dressing. In the case of weak system-environment coupling, we present the expansion of the reduced density matrix in terms of the physical interaction up to the third order. However, our approach is capable of going beyond the weak-coupling limit, and we show how short-time behavior of an open system can be analyzed for arbitrary coupling strength. We illustrate the approach with a simple numerical example of single-particle level broadening for a two-particle interacting system on short time scales. Furthermore, we point out a way to identify the structure of decoherence-free subspaces using the present approach.
SU5416 and EGCG work synergistically and inhibit angiogenic and survival factors and induce cell cycle arrest to promote apoptosis in human malignant neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y and SK-N-BE2 cells.

Malignant neuroblastomas are solid tumors in children. Available therapeutic agents are not highly effective for treatment of malignant neuroblastomas. Therefore, new treatment strategies are urgently needed. We tested the efficacy of combination of SU5416 (SU), an inhibitor of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2), and (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a polyphenolic compound from green tea, for controlling growth of human malignant neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y and SK-N-BE2 cells. Combination of 20 μM SU and 50 μM EGCG synergistically inhibited cell survival, suppressed expression of VEGFR-2, inhibited cell migration, caused cell cycle arrest, and induced apoptosis. Combination of SU and EGCG effectively blocked angiogenic and survival pathways and modulated expression of cell cycle regulators. Apoptosis was induced by down regulation of Bcl-2, activation of caspase-3, and cleavage of the DNA repair enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). Taken together, this combination of drugs can be a promising therapeutic strategy for controlling the growth of human malignant neuroblastoma cells.
Endothelial cell injury in cardiovascular surgery: the pathophysiology of vasomotor dysfunction

Impaired vasomotor function has been suggested as playing a role in the pathophysiology of hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and atherosclerosis, all of which are common in cardiovascular surgery patients. In addition to chronic vasomotor dysfunction, alterations in vasomotor tone can result in acute arterial spasm, microcirculatory ischemia, and wide variations in systemic blood pressure. Changes in the health of the vascular endothelium may also impact the late patency of coronary artery bypass grafts, the progression of atherosclerosis in the native coronary circulation, and the long-term success of cardiac transplants. In the resting state the endothelium produces several substances that promote vascular relaxation and inhibition of platelet function, thus assuring the unhindered flow of blood through the capillaries. In response to injury, the endothelium loses some capacity to relax and also releases powerful vasoconstrictive agents. Attempting to understand the contributions that these substances play in the vasomotor dysfunction seen after cardiothoracic surgery is an area of active investigation.