cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spillovers from the Gridiron: Evidence from Women's Collegiate Basketball

This paper empirically investigates whether schools with an intercollegiate football team experience greater attendance at women's basketball games. The empirical question is important because if football increases attendance and hence revenue to other sports then these benefits should be included when considering the net benefits of football. Using a cross-section of 329 Division IA women's basketball programs from 2005-2006, we find that having a football program corresponds with an increase in per-game attendance of approximately 500 people. This spill-over benefit of having a football team should be credited against the costs of starting and maintaining a football team.
Fungal Allergy and Allergens

Exposure to Fungal Allergens Mechanism of Fungal Allergy Prevalence of Fungal Sensitivity Association of the Fungal Sensitivity with Asthma Role of Fungal Exposure in Acute Asthma Attacks Role of Fungal Allergy in Severe and Fatal Asthma Indoor Fungal Exposure and Allergic Disease Purified Fungal Allergens Assessment of Fungal Allergen Exposure Abatement Measures to Reduce Fungal Allergen Exposure Keywords: allergens, fungal; bioaerosols; fungi; fungi, airborne; indoor exposure to fungi
Modeling Learners’ Cognitive, Affective, and Social Processes through Language and Discourse

There is an emerging trend toward computer-mediated collaborative learning environments that promote lively exchanges between learners in order to facilitate learning. Discourse can play an important role in enhancing epistemology, pedagogy, and assessments in these environments. In this paper we highlight some of our recent work showing the advantages using theoretically grounded automated linguistics tools to identify pedagogically valuable discourse features that can be applied in collaborative learning, intelligent tutoring systems (ITS), computer-mediated collaborative learning (CMCL), and MOOC environments.
Comparison of Rates of Resolution of Diabetes Mellitus after Gastric Banding, Gastric Bypass, and Biliopancreatic Diversion

Background Bariatric operation is the most effective treatment for diabetes mellitus in the morbidly obese. The purpose of this study is to compare the rate of resolution of diabetes mellitus after three common laparoscopic bariatric procedures: laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and biliopancreatic diversion with or without duodenal switch (BPD/DS). Study Design All data were prospectively collected and entered into an electronic registry. Characteristics evaluated for this study included preoperative age, body mass index, duration of diabetes, race, gender, operative time, length of stay, percent excess weight loss, oral hypoglycemic requirements, and insulin requirements. Results A total of 282 bariatric patients with diabetes mellitus were analyzed (218 LAGB, 53 RYGB, and 11 BPD/DS). Preoperative age (46 to 50 years), body mass index (46 to 50; calculated as kg/m 2 ), race and gender breakdown, and baseline oral hypoglycemic (82% to 87%) and insulin requirements (18% to 28%) were comparable among the three groups (p = NS). Percent excess weight loss at 1, 2, and 3 years was: 43%, 50%, and 45% for LAGB; 66%, 68%, and 66% for RYGB; and 68%, 77%, and 82% for BPD/DS (p Conclusions Despite the disparity in percent excess weight loss between LAGB, RYGB, and BPD/DS, the rate of resolution of diabetes mellitus is equivalent.
Hydrodynamic effects in dynamic response of simple arch dams

The dynamic responses of simple arch dams, with different radius to height ratios are analysed for three conditions: the dam alone without water, and the dam with full reservoir, considering water to be compressible in one case and neglecting water compressibility in the other case. The complex frequency response functions for accelerations at the dam crest due to the three components of ground motion—upstream-downstream component, cross-stream component and vertical component–are presented. Based on these results, the effects of dam-water interaction, of water compressibility, and of bank motions on dam response are investigated.
Feedback in physiological systems: An application of feedback analysis and stochastic models to neurophysiology

In the human, the antagonistic, extensor-flexor system of the leg is an example of a common type of neurophysiological feedback system. After a brief introduction to the neuroanatomy and physiology of this feedback system, the paper formulates transfer functions from temporal response data available in the literature. A feedback stability analysis, based on the extension of Nyquist's stability criteria to multiple-loop systems and utilizing flow-graph techniques, demonstrates the stable behavior of the system. Expressions are given relating the sensitivity of the system to variations in muscle response and Golgi tendon organ (tension receptor) response. By considering the events taking place at synapses and end-plates during “isometric tension-small knee angle excursion” conditions as stationary stochastic processes, an external “noise” input to the system is given, whose spectrum is derived from the statistics of a shot-process representation of these events. The paper concludes with some correlations between the analytical results and clinical syndromes.
Automated Multi-Objective Design Optimization of PM AC Machines Using Computationally Efficient FEA and Differential Evolution

The design optimization methods described in this paper are employing an ultrafast computationally efficient finite element analysis technique. A minimum number of magnetostatic solutions are used for the analysis, which makes possible the study of thousands of candidate motor designs with typical PC-workstation computational resources. A multi-objective differential evolution algorithm that considers a large number of independent stator and rotor geometric variables and performance criteria, such as average and ripple torque, losses, and efficiency, is used. The optimization method is demonstrated on different permanent magnet (PM) ac synchronous motors in the kilowatt and megawatt power ranges. For the low-power PM ac machine study, a nine-slot six-pole topology is considered. For the high-power PM ac machines, four case studies were carried out with the following: fractional-slot embedded surface PM (SPM), fractional-slot interior PM (IPM), integer-slot SPM, and integer-slot IPM, respectively. Four motor topologies are systematically compared based on optimal Pareto sets. The design optimization of IPM motors includes an additional search for an optimum operating torque angle corresponding to the maximum-torque-per-ampere condition.
Kinetic study on the reaction of cis-dioxo-(N-(5-X-salicylidene)-2-aminobenzenethiolato) molybdenum(VI) with ethyldiphenylphosphine

Abstract The reactions of ethyldiphenylphosphine with a number of cis-dioxomolybdenum(VI) Schiff base coordination complexes are described. These molybdenum complexes incorporate tridentate Schiff base ligands obtained from the condensation of 5-X-salicylaldehyde (X = Cl, Br, H, CH3O) with o-aminobenzenethiol. Oxomolybdenum(IV) Schiff base complexes were observed as products of the reaction of these Mo(VI) complexes with PEtPh2. The kinetics for these reactions were followed spectrophotometrically and the applicable rate law is − d[MoO2L]/dt = k1[MoO2L][PEtPh2]. The k1's were shown to vary systematically as the X-substituent on the ligand was changed. For MoO2(5-X-SSP), the specific rate constants at 30°C span the range from 19.6 × 10−4 M−1 sec−1 (X = Br) to 8.4 × 10−4 M−1 sec−1 (X = CH3O). It was also observed that a correlation exists between the cathodic reduction potentials (Epc) and the k1's within the series. The rate of reaction of MoO2(5-X-SSP) with PEtPh2 was altered and systematically controlled through ligand design.
Thread-Locking Adhesive Failure and a Unique Corrective Action

Thread-locking adhesives are commonly added to impart extra torque strength as well preventing screws from backing out during use. Many of these adhesives rely on anaerobic (oxygen free) conditions for curing. Often, if not properly cured, the locking compounds which are usually oily liquids, actually behave in a manner completely opposite of design and screws intended to be strengthened are in fact compromised beyond if no locking compound were present at all. Discussed herein is such an example in which, if a solution were not found to allow for curing of the locking compounds on assembled systems, over 2,000 costly sensor assemblies would have been scrapped. Fortunately, an unconventional solution was found.
Sex as Work: A Study of Avocational Counseling

This paper examines how sex play is represented in fifteen popular marriage manuals. The authors of these books are viewed as avocational counselors advising Americans about sexual activity in marriage. An analysis revealed that sex play is treated as work by these authors. Those engaged in sexual relations are urged to put forth a great deal of effort. The orgasm is portrayed as the product of marital sex. Other aspects of a job deemed necessary in sexual behavior are a work schedule and special techniques and equipment. Depicting sex as work is probably the consequence of the need of Americans to justify and dignify play and to resolve the contradictory values of work for work's sake and pleasure for pleasure's sake.
A program to evaluate the reduced matrix elements of summations of one-particle tensor operators

The program REDUCED TENSOR MATRIX ELEMENTS written in FORTRAN for the ICL 1907, CDC 6600, and IBM 360/75 is described for the evaluation of matrix elements of summations of one-particle tensor operators for the calculation of nuclear and atomic properties. This program permits one to calculate such matrix elements of any spin-dependent or spinindependent one-particle tensor operator between arbitrarily coupled L--S configurations. (J FP)
The role of hypnosis in psychotherapy.

Abstract The use of hypnosis in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries ushered in the present scientific era of psychotherapy. In more recent years hypnosis has been employed as an adjunct to facilitate various approaches to psychotherapy. Some hypnotherapists ascribe healing powers to hypnosis itself. In spite of its long history, the significance and value of the role of hypnosis in the process of change in psychotherapy is still unclear. With the present trend towards fiscal accountability, validation of the value of hypnosis in facilitating psychotherapy has become even more important. What, if any, of the various components of hypnosis are necessary to enhance the desired changes is not known. Some of the possible factors of importance in the use of hypnosis are discussed including the hypnotic state, the hypnotic context, and hypnotic suggestion. These factors are discussed in their relationship to the common denominators of all psychotherapies.
Oxidation of benzene by ozone in aqueous solutions

Abstract The rates of reaction between benzene and ozone were measured at temperatures varying from 5 to 35 °C in aqueous solutions in the pH range 3–7 utilizing the stopped-flow technique. The ozonation reaction was one-half order with respect to the concentration of both ozone and benzene in acidic solutions. In neutral solutions, however, the reaction was first order in ozone concentration and nearly independent of benzene concentration. At 25 °C the half-life of the reaction decreased from about 20 to less than 0.2 s and the first-order rate constant increased from 0.012 to 12.2 s − 1 as the pH value of the solutions increased from 3 to 7. Both benzoquinone (p-quinone) and hydroquinone (1,4-dihydroxybenzene) were formed in the neutral solutions as detected with a gas chromatograph. In the acidic solutions, however, only benzoquinone was found. The activation energies at pH values of 3 and 7 respectively were estimated to be 20.9 and 3.3 kcal mol − 1 . A shift in the mechanism of the reaction is suggested by the results.
Effect of esophageal ligation (EL) on small intestinal (SI) development in a rabbit model of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR)

Introduction: Uninterrupted passage of amniotic fluid (AF) through the GI tract appears necessary for normal fetal growth. Previous work suggests that this is related to defective nutrient transport when AF passage is eliminated by EL in normal weight animals. The rabbit provides a naturally occurring model of IUGR based on fetal position within the bicornuate uterus. The effect of in-utero EL on SI development in normal and IUGR fetuses was evaluated. Methods: Thirteen pregnant rabbits underwent operation on day 24 of their 31-day gestation. Ipsilateral normal and IUGR fetuses underwent EL; contralateral fetuses underwent cervical exploration only, forming 4 study groups (Cont-Nl, Cont-IUGR; EL-Nl, EL-IUGR). Fetuses were sacrificed on day 31. The SI was analyzed for: villus height, epithelial cell proliferation by PCNA staining, sodium-glucose cotransporter-1 (SGLT-1) expression by PCR against internal controls and SGLT-1 localization by immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis was performed using the paired Student’s t-test. Results: Fetal survival was 92%. IUGR fetuses had decreased weight vs. normal (p < 0.0004) which was further decreased by EL. Villus height and SI epithelial proliferation were significantly decreased in IUGR fetuses in both groups yet not affected by EL. IUGR increased SGLT-1 mRNA production (Cont-IUGR = 1.3 vs. Cont-Nl = 1.2; p = 0.03). EL virtually eliminated villus enterocyte SGLT-1 protein expression in both groups. Conclusions: AF exclusion by in-utero EL decreased fetal weight and SGLT-1 protein expression. SI villus height and enterocyte proliferation is depressed in IUGR fetuses, but remains independent of AF passage. Exposure of the fetal GI tract to AF appears necessary for proper expression of nutrient transporter proteins.
ELECTRON EXCITATION COLLISION STRENGTHS FOR SINGLY IONIZED NITROGEN

Collision strengths for the astrophysically important lines in N II have been calculated in the close-coupling approximation using the B-spline Breit-Pauli R-matrix method. The multiconfiguration Hartree-Fock method with term-dependent non-orthogonal orbitals is employed for an accurate representation of the target wave functions. The close-coupling expansion includes 58 bound levels of N II. The 58 target levels belong to the terms of the ground 2s 22p 2 and singly excited 2s2p 3, 2s 22p3s, 2s 22p3p, 2s 22p3d, 2s 22p4s, 2s 22p4p, and 2s2p 23s configurations. The effective collision strengths are obtained by averaging the electron collision strengths over a Maxwellian distribution of velocities and these are tabulated for all 1653 fine-structure transitions among the 58 levels at electron temperatures in the range from 500 to 100,000 K. The line strengths, oscillator strengths, and transition probabilities for all E1 transitions are tabulated. The present results are compared with a variety of other close-coupling calculations. There is an overall good agreement with the 23-state calculation by Hudson & Bell in most part, but some significant differences are also noted for some transitions.
The Cost of Smoking to a Dental Practice and to Dentistry

Cigarette smoking is an economic factor in the lives, businesses, and professions of all who smoke. Besides being a health hazard it may also affect the quality of dental service rendered and the efficiency with which it is administered.
Maltose utilization by extracellular hydrolysis followed by glucose transport in Trichomonas vaginalis

The amitochondriate parasitic protist Trichomonas vaginalis can utilize either glucose or maltose as carbon and energy source. The mechanisms of maltose utilization were explored with uptake experiments using radio-isotope labelled maltose in combination with the silicone-oil centrifugation technique and enzymatic assays measuring maltose hydrolysis. The uptake of maltose label became saturated after 2-3 h. The uptake of maltose as a function of the external maltose concentration was linear at low concentrations with no further increase at higher levels, kinetics characteristic of reactions obeying Michaelis-Menten kinetics preceded by a diffusion-limited step. Increased viscosity of the medium resulted in decreased maltose uptake, indicating an extracellular location of the diffusion-limited step. Most of the cellular alpha-glucosidase activity of T. vaginalis was detected on the cell surface, suggesting that maltose is hydrolysed to glucose outside the cell. Glucose interfered more with maltose uptake, and maltose less with glucose uptake, than would be expected if 1 mol of maltose were the equivalent of 2 mol of glucose. This pattern of interaction indicated that the interference occurs before the common metabolic pathway and even before the transport step, supporting the idea of extracellular maltose hydrolysis. We conclude that maltose is hydrolysed to glucose in the boundary layer of the cell, a process akin to membrane digestion in vertebrate enterocytes and on the teguments of helminths. The glucose formed is then transported by the glucose carrier of the organism.
A new survey technique at hard X-rays

In the view of the so-called Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) unified model, the nuclear activity is powered by a super-massive black hole (SMBH) at the center of a galaxy. An optically thick gas-dust structure surrounding the SMBH absorbs efficiently the nuclear radiation. Current surveys of the INTEGRAL Soft-Gamma Ray Imager (IBIS/ISGRI) and of the Burst Alert Telescope (BAT) on board the Swift satellite have proven to be a powerful technique in detecting AGNs at soft gamma-ray energies. BAT and IBIS/ISGRI are coded-mask detectors having two major advantages: 1) they have a huge field of view, hence allowing to detect an large number of AGNs; 2) they operate at soft gamma-rays, hence collecting photons that are energetic enough to pierce efficiently through the gas-dust structure surrounding the SMBH. However, the sensitivity of coded-mask detectors is limited by heavy systematic uncertainties. Furthermore by design they block ∼50% of the incident photons causing an increase of statistical noise. This prevents the detection of the most absorbed AGNs. In this paper we will show that the BAT and the IBIS/ISGRI observations can be merged in order to produce a deep sky survey less susceptible to systematic and statistical noise. The survey of this virtual new mission extends over a wide sky area of 6200 deg2 sampling 113 sources. The scientific outcome from the study of the sample has been properly addressed to study the evolution of AGNs in the local Universe. Our results are compared to other missions and predictions on the results of the recently launched NuSTAR mission are made. We discuss the expected results when applying this survey to the entire extragalactic sky and first results of this survey on the Galactic center are shown.
Response to Letters Regarding Article, “Systemic Hypertension in Low-Gradient Severe Aortic Stenosis With Preserved Ejection Fraction”

We were delighted to read the letter by Dr Laskey emphasizing previous seminal investigations that helped establish the relationship between the systemic circulation and aortic valve hemodynamics, complementing our recent study of patients with systemic hypertension and low-gradient severe aortic stenosis with preserved ejection fraction.1 Indeed, Dr Laskey and colleagues helped shape the understanding that even in the presence of aortic valve stenosis, transvalvular pressure and flow are highly dependent on the resistive and …
A New Technique For Testing Surface Passivation Materials Of GaAs Photodiodes

ABSTRACT Surface recombination is very high for unpassivated GaAs photodiodes and hinders perfor­ mance by lowering Jph while increasing J0 . Present passivation techniques use a GaAlAs window layer to reduce recombination at the GaAs surface. However, problems of chemical instability and ohmic contact formation make GaAlAs less than the ideal material. Other potential window materials may better passivate the surface of GaAs while not incorporating the same problems as GaAlAs. A new device design is presented which uses localized liquid phase epitaxy (I?PE) to obtain a multilevel structure. This device is useful in testing the performance of different passivating candidates for GaAs by allowing comparison of identical photodiodes with and with­ out passivation. The structure avoids ohmic contact problems to the window layer and permits non-destructive testing of all semiconductor layers. 1. INTRODUCTION Optoelectronics is essential in linking electronic circuits via optical transmission. The ability of GaAs to emit and detect light make it an ideal material for monolithic integration, while its high mobilities provide for high speed modulation. Whether for use as optical interconnects1 such as GaAs/Si, or for optoelectronic integrated circuits,2 GaAs lasers and photodiodes have proved to be high speed, low noise, low power, and radiation hard devices.3 Concentrating on the GaAs surface characteristics will achieve improvements in device performance.The surface recombination velocity (5rec) for bare GaAs is typically 106 to 107 HI,4'5 which detrimentally effects the photodiode response. Present day GaAs photodiodes use GaAlAs win­ dow layers to passivate the top surface.6 '7 Although GaAlAs successfully reduces surface recom­ bination, it has inherent problems of chemical instability and failure to form ohmic contacts.
Risk of cardiac arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities in patients with acute myocardial infarction receiving packed red blood cell transfusions

Abstract Purpose Although transfusion has been linked to the development of atrial fibrillation (AF) in cardiac surgical patients, this association has not been investigated in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Evidence supports an inflammatory mechanism in the development of AF, and red cell transfusions also elicit an inflammatory response. We therefore sought to evaluate whether packed red blood cell transfusion increases the risk of AF, ventricular tachycardia (VT), and other arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities in patients with AMI. Materials and Methods This is a retrospective study on patients with AMI and no prior history of AF, admitted to a critical care area and entered in Project Impact database from 08/2003-12/2007. Primary outcome measures were new-onset cardiac arrhythmias or conduction disturbances. Results Transfused patients had significantly higher incidences of AF (4.7% vs 1.3%, P = .008), cardiac arrest (9.5% vs 1.7%, P P P = .058). Multivariate regression analysis confirmed transfusion as an independent risk factor for "non-lethal" cardiac events (AF/heart block; odds ratio [OR], 4.7 [1.9-11.9]; P = .001), "lethal" events (VT/cardiac arrest; OR, 2.4 [1.1-5]; P = .016), and all cardiac events (OR, 2.8 [1.5-65.1]; P = .001). Transfused patients had significantly longer length of stay ( P P Conclusions Packed red blood cell transfusion is independently associated with an increased risk of new-onset cardiac arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities in the setting of AMI, even after controlling for traditional risk factors.
Toxicokinetics of 2,2′,4,4′,5,5′‐hexabromobiphenyl in the rat

The polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) constituents of Firemaster FF‐1 were determined using gas chromatography—electron capture (GC‐EC), The distribution and clearance of the major component of the mixture, 2,2’,4,4'5,5'‐hexabromobiphenyl (HxBBb), in rat whole blood and various tissues were determined at times up to 16 wk after a single dose of 10 mg/kg of Firemaster FF‐1 given orally. A three‐comparment linear mammiliary model obtained from blood data was compared to a first‐order linear n‐compartment mammiliary model derived through direct curve‐fitting to tissue and blood concentrations. It was found that most tissues analyzed naturally correspond to compartments derived through analysis of blood data alone. Comportment 1 (C1) consisted of whole blood, spleen, kidney, and heart; compartment 2 (C2) consisted of cerebral grey and white matter, cerebellum, lung, liver, and testes; and compartment 3 (C3) consisted of subcutaneous fat. Jejunum, a tissue that does not satisfy the assumptions of a mammiliary mode...
Variation in Responses of Fishes across Multiple Reserves within a Network of Marine Protected Areas in Temperate Waters

Meta-analyses of field studies have shown that biomass, density, species richness, and size of organisms protected by no-take marine reserves generally increase over time. The magnitude and timing of changes in these response variables, however, vary greatly and depend upon the taxonomic groups protected, size and type of reserve, oceanographic regime, and time since the reserve was implemented. We conducted collaborative, fishery-independent surveys of fishes for seven years in and near newly created marine protected areas (MPAs) in central California, USA. Results showed that initially most MPAs contained more and larger fishes than associated reference sites, likely due to differences in habitat quality. The differences between MPAs and reference sites did not greatly change over the seven years of our study, indicating that reserve benefits will be slow to accumulate in California’s temperate eastern boundary current. Fishes in an older reserve that has been closed to fishing since 1973, however, were significantly more abundant and larger than those in associated reference sites. This indicates that reserve benefits are likely to accrue in the California Current ecosystem, but that 20 years or more may be needed to detect significant changes in response variables that are due to MPA implementation. Because of the high spatial and temporal variability of fish recruitment patterns, long-term monitoring is needed to identify positive responses of fishes to protection in the diverse set of habitats in a dynamic eastern boundary current. Qualitative estimates of response variables, such as would be obtained from an expert opinion process, are unlikely to provide an accurate description of MPA performance. Similarly, using one species or one MPA as an indicator is unlikely to provide sufficient resolution to accurately describe the performance of multiple MPAs.
Review of the role of dielectric anisotropy in Dyakonov surface-wave propagation

Surface waves (SWs) are localized waves that travel along the planar interface between two different mediums when certain dispersion relations are satisfied. If both mediums have purely dielectric constitutive properties, the characteristics of SW propagation are determined by the anisotropy of both mediums. Surface waves are then called Dyakonov SWs (DSWs), after Dyakonov who theoretically established the possibility of SW propagation at the planar interface of an isotropic dielectric and a positive uniaxial dielectric. Since then, DSW propagation guided by interfaces between a variety of dielectrics has been studied. With an isotropic dielectric on one side, the dielectric on the other side of the interface can be not only positive uniaxial but also biaxial. DSW propagation can also occur along an interface between two uniaxial or biaxial dielectrics that are twisted about a common axis with respect to each other but are otherwise identical. Recently, DSW propagation has been studied taking (i) uniaxial dielectrics such as calomel and dioptase crystals; (ii) biaxial dielectrics such as hemimorphite, crocoite, tellurite, witherite, and cerussite; and (iii) electro-optic materials such as potassium niobate. With materials that are significantly anisotropic, the angular regime of directions for DSW propagation turns out to be narrow. In the case of naturally occurring crystals, one has to accept the narrow angular existence domain (AED). However, exploiting the Pockels effect not only facilitates dynamic electrical control of DSW propagation, but also widens the AED for DSW propagation.
Discovery of a new phosphotyrosine mimetic for PTP1B using breakaway tethering.

Protein tyrosine phosphatases play important roles in many signaling cascades involved in human disease. The identification of druglike inhibitors for these targets is a major challenge, and the discovery of suitable phosphotyrosine (pY) mimetics remains one of the key difficulties. Here we describe an extension of tethering technology, “breakaway tethering”, which is ideally suited for discovering such new chemical entities. The approach involves first irreversibly modifying a protein with an extender that contains both a masked thiol and a known pY mimetic. The extender is then cleaved to release the pY mimetic, unmasking the thiol. The resulting protein is screened against a library of disulfide-containing small molecule fragments; any molecules with inherent affinity for the pY binding site will preferentially form disulfides with the extender, allowing for their identification by mass spectrometry. The ability to start from a known substrate mimimizes perturbation of protein structure and increases t...
Libraries in the Digital Age: LIDA 2007

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report on the ninth annual meeting of Libraries in the Digital Age and its program.Design/methodology/approach – Conference report.Findings – Longitudinal studies are now indicating trends in how readers and users are relying upon a digital library (DL) compared to traditional print and hybrid collections. Interestingly, values remain unchanged as expectations grow.Originality valve (KWD) – Now that there is critical mass of digitized content libraries are creating ways to develop and customize services in this DL environment.
Interaction of poly(ethylenimine)-DNA polyplexes with mitochondria: Implications for a mechanism of cytotoxicity

Poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) and PEI-based systems have been widely studied for use as nucleic acid delivery vehicles. However, many of these vehicles display high cytotoxicity, rendering them unfit for therapeutic use. By exploring the mechanisms that cause cytotoxicity, and through understanding structure-function relationships between polymers and intracellular interactions, nucleic acid delivery vehicles with precise intracellular properties can be tailored for specific function. Previous research has shown that PEI is able to depolarize mitochondria, but the exact mechanism as to how depolarization is induced remains elusive and therefore is the focus of the current study. Potential mechanisms for mitochondrial depolarization include direct mitochondrial membrane permeabilization by PEI or PEI polyplexes, activation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore, and interference with mitochondrial membrane proton pumps, specifically Complex I of the electron transport chain and F(0)F(1)-ATPase. Herein, confocal microscopy and live cell imaging showed that PEI polyplexes do colocalize to some degree with mitochondria early in transfection, and the degree of colocalization increases over time. Cyclosporin a was used to prevent activation of the mitochondrial membrane permeability transition pore, and it was found that early in transfection cyclosporin a was unable to prevent the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Further studies done using rotenone and oligomycin to inhibit Complex I of the electron transport chain and F(0)F(1)-ATPase, respectively, indicate that both of these mitochondrial proton pumps are functioning during PEI transfection. Overall, we conclude that direct interaction between polyplexes and mitochondria may be the reason why mitochondrial function is impaired during PEI transfection.
Scoring procedures for the length-complexity index: A preliminary report

Abstract Shriner (1968) has reviewed the procedural and inherent weaknesses of the MLR. The sufficiency of the SCS has also been challenged. A new language measure, the length-complexity index (LCI), is currently regarded as the best single indicator of developmental changes in child language. The LCI makes a composite analysis of sentence length and sentence complexity concurrently according to a numeric weighting system. The methodology and implications for language therapy are discussed. Future research should permit refinement of the LCI. Currently unanswered questions include (A) the emergence of transformations, (B) standardized sampling procedure, (C) size of language sample, and (D) generalizability for different dialect groups. Nevertheless, the LCI does provide more information regarding the morphological and syntactical features in the language of children than does either MLR or SCS.
A Comparison of Isomers: trans- and cis-Dicyanobis(para-ethylisocyanobenzene)Platinum

We report the synthesis and characterization of trans-Pt(p-CN−C6H4−C2H5)2(CN)2 and compare the properties to the previously reported cis isomer, cis-Pt(p-CN−C6H4−C2H5)2(CN)2. These geometric isomer...
Longitudinal non-invasive proton NMR spectroscopy measurement of vitreous lactate in a rabbit model of ocular hypertension.

Abstract To determine whether vitreous lactate concentrations are correlated with intraocular pressure (IOP) rise, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) damage, and nerve fiber layer (NFL) thickness decrease in a rabbit model of ocular hypertension. Also, to learn whether proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy can provide sequential, non-invasive in vivo measurements of vitreous lactate. Intra-anterior chamber injections of 20-μm latex beads were used to impede aqueous drainage in New Zealand White rabbits, causing an elevation of IOP. Group I consisted of 12 rabbits in which unilateral elevations in IOP were achieved. Group II consisted of 6 rabbits in which treatment did not cause a change in IOP. The contralateral eye served as a control in both groups. Control eyes received an equal volume injection of vehicle only. IOP was measured for two pre-treatment days and then on post-treatment days 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 16, 23, 30, and 37. 1H-NMR spectroscopy was used to measure changes in vitreous lactate concentrations that may be associated with the onset and progression of the pathophysiology. Post-mortem histochemical analysis at the light microscope level was used to quantify changes in the retinal NFL thickness and in the numbers of RGC, and correlate them with IOP and percent change in lactate levels. Baseline IOP in Group I control and treated eyes were 12.0 ± 1.9 and 12.5 ± 1.3 mmHg, respectively. Between days 5 and 9 post-treatment, the IOP in Group I treated eyes (n = 12) rose to 23.9 ± 4.2 mmHg. IOP in the control eyes remained unchanged (12.0 ± 1.6). Vitreous lactate levels in Group I treated eyes increased by 100%, from pre-treatment values. Levels in control eyes remained unchanged. In Group I, IOP and percent change in lactate concentration in treated eyes were closely correlated throughout the study period (r = 0.95; p ≤ 0.05). Group II control and treated eyes showed no significant changes in either IOP or lactate. Group I treated eyes had a reduced NFL thickness (65 ± 4 μm; n = 5) at the temporal medullary ray (MR) compared with control eyes (45 ± 6 μm). A smaller reduction was found in the nasal MR areas, where thickness was 53 ± 3 μm in treated eyes and 66 ± 4 μm in control eyes. RGC numbers also were decreased in the treated eyes (241,222 ± 10,920 cells) vs. 322,311 ± 8726 cells in control eyes. TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) indicated that RGC loss in the treated eyes was most likely due to apoptosis. In vivo changes in lactate can be monitored non-invasively over time using 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Vitreous lactate concentrations increased and returned to baseline concurrently with IOP. The brief elevation in IOP produced a reduction in both the RGC cell numbers and in the thickness of the NFL.
A proposed mechanism for myosin magnesium adenosine triphosphatase activity

Abstract A formal mechanism for the myosin MgATPase is proposed. The basic characteristics of this mechanism require that the binding of substrate at either one of two equivalent nucleotide sites of uncomplexed myosin prevents binding of substrate at the other unoccupied site (i.e. negative cooperativity) and that the rapid formation of a myosin-product complex permits binding of substrate at the unoccupied site. Analogue computer kinetic simulations indicate that the proposed mechanism is compatible with the observed transient phase kinetics characterizing the interaction of the enzyme with MgATP. In addition, analysis of the derived rate equation show that the mechanism is also consistent with existing steady-state kinetic data for the myosin MgATPase. A simpler mechanism is proposed for the subfragment-1 MgATPase that is shown to be compatible with the existing kinetic data. Features of the proposed myosin MgATPase mechanism are incorporated into a model of contraction which utilizes the bipartite structure and nucleotide site interaction of the myosin crossbridge to provide an efficient utilization of ATP in the contraction cycle.
Molecular cloning and functional analysis of the human Na/H exchanger NHE3 promoter

Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoforms NHE2 and NHE3, colocalized to the brush border membrane of the epithelial cells, exhibit differences in their pattern of tissue expression and regulation by various ...
Transport processes of water and protons through micropores

Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to study the movement of water molecules and protons in two pores: a small pore of radius 9.36 {angstrom} and a larger one of radius 12.24 {angstrom}. Inside the ionic solution, the wall charge densities are approximately {minus}0.1 C/m{sup 2} and {minus}0.2 C/m{sup 2}. Water and proton distributions in the pore are affected strongly by the water content and the wall charge density. In the case of low wall charge density, if there is a sufficient number of water molecules in the pore, the protons are strongly hydrated to the water molecules and do not directly contact the wall. In the case of high wall charge density, most of the protons are attracted to the wall. Then, the wall charge and the absorbed protons together behave like a weakly charged wall. The authors found that the Poisson-Boltzmann theory fails to predict the proton distribution in these pores. The calculated electroosmotic drag coefficient, proton diffusion coefficients, and pore conductance are compared with the simulation results for the Nafion-117 membrane. This study suggests that if the Nafion-117 membrane is modeled as a large number of identical cylindrical pores, the effective wall charge densities in the pores willmore » never reach the value of {minus}0.2 C/m{sup 2}.« less
Blockade of Estrogen Receptor Signaling Inhibits Growth and Migration of Medulloblastoma

Medulloblastoma (MD) is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. These invasive neuroectodermal tumors arise from cerebellar granule cell-like precursors. In the developing cerebellum, estrogen influences growth and viability of granule cell precursors that transiently express elevated levels estrogen receptor-beta (ERbeta) during differentiation. Immunoanalysis revealed that ERbeta was expressed in the maturing human cerebellum, in all 22 primary MD tumors analyzed, and in two MD-derived cell lines (D283Med and Daoy). Very low levels of ERalpha-like proteins were detected in each cell line and 41% of tumor samples. Physiological concentrations of the 17beta-estradiol- or the ERbeta-selective agonist 2,3-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propionitrile diarylpropionitrile dose-dependently increased MD growth and cellular migration. In contrast, the ERalpha-selective agonist (4-propyl-[1H]pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl) trisphenol did not influence MD growth. Similar to previous studies in normal cerebellar granule cell precursors, these studies demonstrate that the physiological actions of estrogens in MD are mediated by ERbeta. Preclinical studies assessing the therapeutic efficacy of antiestrogen chemotherapeutics for treating human MD were performed. It was found that pharmacological inhibition of ER-mediated signaling with the ER antagonist drug Faslodex (ICI182,780) blocked all estrogen-mediated effects in both cell culture and xenograft models of human MD. These studies have revealed that functional ERbeta expression is a fundamental aspect of MD biology and has defined antiestrogen therapy as a potentially efficacious clinical approach to improve the long-term outcomes for MD patients.
Improved Patient Survival After Acute Variceal Bleeding: A Multicenter, Cohort Study

Abstract Objective Existing literature indicates that the mortality rate with each variceal bleeding episode is 30–50%. Over the past 2 decades, there have been significant developments in the management of variceal bleeding. The effect of these developments on the natural history of variceal bleeding is unclear. Therefore, a retrospective, multicenter study was conducted to define the outcomes of variceal bleeding and to describe the patterns of current practice in the management of variceal bleeding. Methods All patients with documented variceal bleeding hospitalized at four large county hospitals from January 1, 1997, to June 30, 2000, were included. Study outcomes were in-hospital, 6-wk, and overall mortality, rate of rebleeding, transfusion requirement, and length of stay. After discharge, patients were followed until death or study closure date, on June 30, 2000. Results A total of 231 subjects were included, and their in-hospital, 6-wk, and overall mortality rates were 14.2%, 17.5%, and 33.5%, respectively. The frequency of rebleeding during follow-up was 29%. Median length of total hospital stay was 8 days (0–34 days). Median number of packed red cell units transfused was 4 U (0–60 U). Upper endoscopy was performed in 95% of patients within 24 h, and endoscopic therapy was done in all but eight patients (ligation 64%, sclerotherapy 33%). Octreotide was administered in 74% of the patients. Portasystemic shunts were performed in 7.5% of the patients for controlling acute variceal bleeding. Conclusions The mortality rate after variceal bleeding in this study was substantially lower than previously reported. This suggests that advances made in the management of variceal bleeding have improved outcomes after variceal bleeding.
Statistical inference of four ArII transition probabilities

Using the multi-line method, several hundred temperature measurements were made in a partially stabilized high pressure argon arc. Statistically significant evidence enquires revision of transition probabilities for the ArII lines at 476.489, 480.607, 484.790, and 487.990 nm.
Challenges and Advances in Validating Enzyme Design Proposals: The Case of Kemp Eliminase Catalysis

One of the fundamental challenges in biotechnology and biochemistry is the ability to design effective enzymes. Despite recent progress, most of the advances on this front have been made by placing the reacting fragments in the proper places, rather than by optimizing the preorganization of the environment, which is the key factor in enzyme catalysis. Thus, rational improvement of the preorganization would require approaches capable of evaluating reliably the actual catalytic effect. This work considers the catalytic effects in different Kemp eliminases as a benchmark for a computer-aided enzyme design. It is shown that the empirical valence bond provides a powerful screening tool, with significant advantages over current alternative strategies. The insights provided by the empirical valence bond calculations are discussed with an emphasis on the ability to analyze the difference between the linear free energy relationships obtained in solution and those found in the enzymes. We also point out the trade-o...
Topical Application of PPADS Inhibits Complement Activation and Choroidal Neovascularization in a Model of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of blindness among the elderly. AMD patients have elevated levels of membrane attack complex (MAC) in their choroidal blood vessels and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). MAC forms pores in cell membranes. Low levels of MAC result in an elevation of cytokine release such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that promotes the formation of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). High levels of MAC result in cell lysis and RPE degeneration is a hallmark of advanced AMD. The current standard of care for CNV associated with wet AMD is intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF molecules every 4 to 12 weeks. Such injections have significant side effects. Recently, it has been found that membrane pore-forming proteins such as α-haemolysin can mediate their toxic effects through auto- and paracrine signaling and that complement-induced lysis is amplified through ATP release followed by P2X receptor activation. We hypothesized that attenuation of P2X receptor activation may lead to a reduction in MAC deposition and consequent formation of CNV. Hence, in this study we investigated topical application of the purinergic P2X antagonist Pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid (PPADS) as a potential treatment for AMD. We found that 4.17 µM PPADS inhibited formation of HUVEC master junctions and master segments by 74.7%. In a human complement mediated cell lysis assay, 104 µM PPADS enabled almost complete protection of Hepa1c1c7 cells from 1% normal human serum mediated cell lysis. Daily topical application of 4.17 mM PPADS for 3 days attenuated the progression of laser induced CNV in mice by 41.8% and attenuated the deposition of MAC at the site of the laser injury by 19.7%. Our data have implications for the future treatment of AMD and potentially other ocular disorders involving CNV such as angioid streaks, choroidal rupture and high myopia.
Stimulation of β-amyloid precursor protein α-processing by phorbol ester involves calcium and calpain activation

Normal processing of Alzheimer's beta-amyloid precursor protein (APP) is markedly stimulated by phorbol esters, but the underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully understood. In this study, we observed that: (a) Phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu)-stimulated APP secretion in cultured SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma and fibroblast cells was blocked by EGTA and calpain inhibitors in a concentration-dependent manner, but not by other protease inhibitors. (b) Secretion of fibronectin, another secretory protein tested for comparison, was enhanced by PDBu, but insensitive to calpain inhibitors. (c) PDBu stimulated intracellular calpain activity as measured by the hydrolysis of a fluorogenic calpain substrate. (d) PDBu also induced rapid proteolysis of two endogenous substrates of calpains, i.e., tau and microtubule-associated protein-2 (MAP-2) and the proteolysis was blocked by EGTA and calpain inhibitors. Taken together, these results suggest that stimulation of APP alpha-processing by PDBu is through a mechanism that involves the activation of Ca(2+) and, most notably, calpain. The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to the regulatory mechanism of APP alpha-processing.
COMMUNAL RESPONSIBILITY OF THE SYNAGOGUE TO THE JEWISH SCHOOL

(1931). COMMUNAL RESPONSIBILITY OF THE SYNAGOGUE TO THE JEWISH SCHOOL. Jewish Education: Vol. 3, No. 3, pp. 142-151.
A COMPARISON OF CERTAIN EFFECTS OF DESOXYCORTICOSTERONE ACETATE, CORTICOSTERONE AND CORTICAL EXTRACT ON A PATIENT WITH ADDISON′S DISEASE

THE TREATMENT of Addison's disease has been significantly furthered by the introduction of synthetic desoxycorticosterone esters. Nevertheless many patients with this treatment have not recovered full strength, others have developed severe hypoglycemia and some have died suddenly perhaps without ade′quate explanation for their demise while under treatment with this hormone. Fur′thermore, Ingle (1) has shown that the work capacity of adrenalectomised rats treated with desoxycorticosterone acetate is far less than that of animals receiving another steroid of the adrenal cortex, namely corticosterone. Long and his coworkers (2) have presented strong evidence favoring the view that corticosterone and dehy′drocorticosterone as well as cortical extract have a much greater effect upon the car′bohydrate metabolism of normal, adrenalectomized and partially pancreatectomized rats under a variety of circumstances than does desoxycorticosterone acetate.