cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparing Bayesian and Frequentist Estimators under Asymmetric Loss

While many estimation problems involving one or more parameters are treated using a symmetric loss function which gives equal weight to estimation errors that are the same “distance” from the true parameter value, there are clearly problems in which estimation errors in a particular direction are considered more serious than errors in another direction. In univariate problems, it may well be the case that overestimation has potential repercussions that underestimation does not (or, of course, vice versa). For example, Varian (1975) motivated the use of asymmetric loss functions in estimation problems arising in real estate assessment, where the overestimation of a property’s value might cause it to remain on the market unsold for an extended period, ultimately costing the seller inordinate and unnecessary expenses. The estimation of peak water flow in the construction of dams or levies clearly has asymmetric consequences; overestimation might lead to increased construction costs while underestimation might lead to the much more serious consequence of subsequent overflows which can seriously threaten lives and property in adjacent communities. Further examples of contexts requiring the asymmetric treatment of estimation errors are given in papers by Shao and Chow (1991), who treat estimation problems regarding release dates of certain pharmaceutical products, by Thompson and Basu (1996), who treat asymmetric problems arising in reliability and by Zellner and Palm (1974), who considers a variety of problems in the area of econometrics.
On the Association between Asymmetric Timely Loss Recognition and Insider Trading Profitability

This study examines the association between asymmetric timely loss recognition (TLR) and trading profits earned by corporate insiders. Consistent with TLR reducing insiders’ information advantages over outsiders, we find that insider trading profits are negatively associated with TLR. Moreover, this association mainly arises from insider sells, non-routine trades, and trades by non-CEO/CFO insiders. Further decomposition of insider trading profits reveals that TLR is negatively associated with only the price change component, not with volume component, of insider trades. Together, our evidence suggests that TLR reduces managers’ abilities to extract rents from investors via insider trading.
Linear birefringence of the central human cornea.

PURPOSE To determine the polarization properties of the central cornea at perpendicular incidence in a normal human population on the assumption that the cornea behaves as a linear retarder. METHODS A corneal polarimeter provided a view of the fourth Purkinje image of a yellow (585 nm) light-emitting diode through crossed polarizers and a variable retarder. The Purkinje image was extinguished by adjusting the fast axis and retardance of the retarder to match the slow axis and double-pass retardance of the cornea. Both eyes of 73 normal subjects (49 women, 24 men; ages, 21-71 years) were measured. Correlations were expressed as Pearson's r. RESULTS In most corneas the slow axis pointed nasally downward, with the peak of the axis distribution falling between 10 degrees and 20 degrees nasally downward. Double-pass corneal retardance varied widely (range, 0-250 nm); 80% of retardance values were uniformly distributed from 40 to 140 nm. Retardance was moderately correlated with axis (r approximately 0.5), such that weaker retardance was associated with axes that were more nasally downward. Corneal birefringence was well correlated between the two eyes of a subject in both axis (r = 0.77) and retardance (r = 0.75). CONCLUSIONS The variation of corneal birefringence among individuals is substantial enough to produce large, uncontrolled differences in the polarization state of a measuring beam, differences that can introduce variability in newer technologies for ophthalmic diagnosis. The interocular similarity of corneal birefringence suggests deterministic control of corneal development.
Recognition of gait impairment evaluated using an artificial gait stimuli

This paper describes experiments to understand how well individuals can recognize an impaired walking pattern. The gait patterns are generated using a passive dynamic walker (PDW) model to allow a systematic change in gait patterns. The changed gait parameters include gait cadence, knee height asymmetry, step length and step time asymmetry, roll-over-shape (ROS) asymmetry, and knee damping asymmetry. Twenty participants rated twenty-four unimpaired and impaired walking patterns on a 7-point Likert scale. Results revealed that although a walking pattern may deviate dynamically from normal, there is a quantifiable range of gait impairments that may be dismissed as unimpaired. Particularly, we found that a knee height asymmetry range of roughly +10% (up) and −20%, could be dismissed as unimpaired. Findings show that the impairment perception of a damped knee joint can be countered by attaching a mass to the opposite lower limb.
Some recent work with Monte Carlo methods

In the two years since Monte Carlo simulation was introduced to elementary particle theorists, it has become a useful tool for studying a wide variety of problems. Some of the recent work using this technique is reviewed. Three topics are discussed: 1) Monte Carlo studies of topological objects and the effect of boundary conditions; 2) methods for studying systems with fermions; and 3) specialized computing machines for performing Monte Carlo Simulation.
Polymer@MOF@MOF: “grafting from” atom transfer radical polymerization for the synthesis of hybrid porous solids

The application of a core–shell architecture allows the formation of a polymer-coated metal–organic framework (MOF) maintaining high surface area (2289–2857 m2 g−1). The growth of a MOF shell from a MOF core was used to spatially localize initiators by post-synthetic modification. The confinement of initiators ensures that polymerization is restricted to the outer shell of the MOF.
Conversion of Xylose to Furfural Using Lewis and Brønsted Acid Catalysts in Aqueous Media

The role of molecular structure on pentose dehydration to furfural has been examined using HCl as a Bronsted acid catalyst in a single phase aqueous media. It is shown that xylulose dehydration results in a much higher furfural yield than xylose dehydration under similar reaction conditions. Furthermore, a cascade of reactions for the efficient conversion of xylose to furfural in a single pot reactor is presented whereby a Lewis acid, CrCl3, is used to isomerize xylose to xylulose, and a Bronsted acid, HCl, is employed to dehydrate xylulose to furfural. Using the combination of Lewis and Bronsted acids, a furfural yield of ∼39% is achieved compared to ∼29% using HCl alone, at a moderate reaction temperature (∼418 K) in a single aqueous phase, with an associated decrease in the residence time by a factor of 5. With this combined catalyst functionalities, a much higher yield (76%) to furfural can be obtained in a biphasic system at low temperatures and short times. Aside from increasing performance, our res...
Heterogeneous DNA methylation status of the regulatory element of the mouse Oct4 gene in adult somatic cell population.

The transcription factor Oct4 is specifically expressed in the germ line and pluripotent stem cells, and is indispensable for normal mouse development. To understand the epigenetic control of Oct4 ...
Adjustment of stock prices and volatility to changes in industrial timberland ownership

Abstract In the United States, the majority of publicly traded and vertically integrated forest firms with both manufacturing facilities and timberland holdings have either sold their timberlands to private investors, or converted their corporate structure into Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). In this study, timberland ownership changes between 1997 and 2010 were reviewed, and their impact on publicly traded forest products firms was assessed. Changes in industrial timberland ownership were organized into four groups: 24 large timberland sales by public forest firms; six jumbo timberland sales; seven announcements related to timber REIT conversions; and four land acquisitions by timber REITs. Event analysis and the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH) model were employed to evaluate event-induced abnormal returns and volatility. The review revealed that most vertically integrated forest firms in the United States had divested their timberlands between 1997 and 2010. Four timber REITs have been formed since 1998, and they own 15.5 million acres of timberlands at present. Timberland sales by forest firms and acquisitions by REITs generated negative abnormal returns, while conversions to REITs produced positive impacts. In most cases, these events also increased asset volatility. These findings help us understand the adjustment of stock returns and volatility due to past ownership changes, and may shed light on similar changes by privately held forest firms in the future.
Dyslipidaemia: PCSK9 antibodies: a dividend of the genomics revolution

PCSK9 antibodies effectively lower the LDL-cholesterol level and, therefore, address an unmet clinical need in patients with either refractory hypercholesterolaemia, statin intolerance, or an elevated lipoprotein(a) level. On the basis of ongoing clinical outcome trials, these agents might reset the target LDL-cholesterol level to <50 mg/dl.
Animal anaesthesia for in vivo magnetic resonance

Almost all animal patients, including research subjects, presented for MRI/MRS studies are anesthetized. As MR moves rapidly beyond simple anatomic studies, becoming a powerful tool for defining physiologic processes, it is imperative that investigators become familiar with the physiologic effects of the anaesthetic drugs. This decreases confounding variables, making data interpretation more accurate and more applicable to future uses. This article is intended to be a basic resource for investigators wishing to increase their understanding of the anesthetic drugs. The following is a general discussion describing the mechanism of action and physiologic effects of the more common anaesthetic drugs used in laboratory animals. A dosing table of common anaesthetics and analgesics used in mice and rats is included because these two species comprise a great majority of MRI/MRS research subjects.
Failed communication about life-support therapy: Silent physicians and mute patients

/problem in communication continues to exist between patients and physicians concerning patients’ preferences for aggressive, life-sustaining therapy. In recent studies, it has been found repeatedly that a majority of patients indicate a wish to discuss with their physicians their own preferences for lifesupport therapy before such therapy is required. However, these same studies have not shown good concordance between the patients’ wishes and their doctors’ actions [l-3], usually leading to the assumption that the communication gap solely reflects the reluctance of physicians to initiate such discussions. In this issue of the JournaE, Frank1 and his colleagues [4] explore this question afresh, and provide new perspectives about the problem. To begin, their study population consists of inpatients at a university hospital, a group not previously evaluated regarding communication about life-support care. In addition, the authors have attempted to discern the effects of two important variables-the respondents’ actual severity of illness (terminal versus non-terminal) and their perception of their anticipated outcome after life-support therapy-as factors that might influence patients’ decisions about initiation of life-support discussion and therapy. Frank1 et aE reach three major conclusions. First, the majority of patients, whether afflicted by terminal or non-terminal disease, when faced with a poor outcome (described as non-independent function, hopeless prognosis, or persistent coma) have a low desire for aggressive life-support therapy. Second, only a surprisingly small plurality (47%) of patients expressed a wish to discuss life-support therapy with their physicians, whereas 37% indicated they did not wish such discussion. And, third, there was no concordance between patients’ desire for discussion of aggressive lifesupport therapy and their apparent desire for initiation of such therapy. What interpretations might we derive from these observations? The fact that most patients did not wish aggressive life-support therapy when a poor functional outcome was anticipated is not surprising, and is consistent with the results of previous studies [l-3]. As well, the observation that those with terminal illness had a lesser desire for such therapy than those with non-terminal illness, 66% versus 47%, respectively, is similarly not unexpected. By contrast, the finding that one
Structures of B90 (sugary) and W64A (normal) maize starches

The B90 maize (sugary) starch showed an iodine affinity (i.a. = g/100 g) of 8.8, and 30.6% was amylose. The W64A maize (normal) starch and an i.a. of 4.6, and 18.5% was amylose. The starches were fractionated into amylose, amylopectin, and a middle layer (ML)-component by the Schoch method. The amyloses had a number-average dp (dpn), 780–830. The B90 amylose had a larger weight-average dp (dpw 3360) and a higher number of chains (nc 3.9) than the W64A amylose (dpw 2680, nc 2.4) and appeared to contain a large branched molecule. The properties of the amylopectins and ML-components are similar, but the ML-components are larger molecules. These B90 components had higher i.a. (3.1–4.8) than the W64A components (0.8–1.1). The average chain length (cl) and beta-amylolysis limit of the B90 and W64A components were 20–21 and 59–61%, respectively. However, chromatography on Sephadex G-75SF after debranching with isoamylase indicated that the B90 amylopectin was comprised of larger long B-chains (cl 150) and smaller intermediate B-chains (cl 40) than the W64A amylopectin (cl 100 and 44, respectively). The B90 amylopectin long B-chains appear to be poorly branched and are the reason for its high i.a.
Metric variability in the anterior dentition of African colobines

The anterior dentition of three species of African colobines (Colobus polykomos, C. badius, and C. verus) was investigated metrically and the results analyzed for three characters: (1) intraspecific tooth size relations, (2) sexual dimorphism, and (3) interspecific relations. Based on incisor size sequences C. polykomos and C. badius appear to be more closely related to each other than either is to C. verus. However, incorporating the results of a previous study on postcanine dentition the three species appear to be equally closely related. The magnitude of sexual dimorphism in canine size decreases from C. badius to C. verus to C. polykomos. Interspecific differences in the degree of canine size dimorphism may be attributed to differential intensities of male intrasexual selection; however, the interspecific differences in canine size dimorphism do not correspond to the interspecific differences in body size dimorphism.
Public service broadcasting and deregulatory pressures in Europe

Public policies on broadcasting which used to work within a regulatory environment have now to readjust their traditional way of regulating broadcasting and, concurrently. to accom modate the deregulation of their traditional broadcasting sys tems. This article attempts to describe and examine the con cept of public service broadcasting, its Justifications and the deregulatory trends on the European Continent.
Shrinkage and fragmentation of the trans-Golgi network in non-meristematic plant cells

Golgi products are exported from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) where they are sorted and packaged into secretory and clathrin-coated vesicles. We have examined TGN cisternae in Arabidopsis root columella cells and in maize basal endosperm transfer cells by electron microscopy/tomography. In these cell types, sizes of the TGN compartments decrease as they produce vesicles. After released from the Golgi, free TGN compartments continue to contract and they were seen to fragment into clusters of vesicles. The shrinkage of the plant TGN and its final disassembly suggest that the plant TGN is not a long-lasting organelle that is replenished regularly by membrane trafficking.
Photonics Xplorers and Leaders: challenging diverse students in a flat world for emerging careers

The Photonics programs address the question of how to integrate scientific content, student encouragement, and parental support to engage minority high school students to experience success in areas of a national need. Historical data indicates African Americans do not take advanced mathematics and science courses, especially physics, in high school. Therefore, we propose using a variety of strategies for providing instruction in leadership, experimentation, research writing, communications and scientific presentation to work with students, families and teachers in promoting selection of and academic achievement in challenging science courses. Seventy-five African American students are participating in year-round Photonics programs at The Science House on NC State University’s Centennial Campus. Students from sixteen counties in North Carolina learn about fiber optics, communications and the properties of light.
THE CROWDING‐OUT CONTROVERSY: AN EXAMINATION OF ITS PRESENT STATE

According to the Keynesian income determination model, as the level of expenditures is instantaneously increased through government or private investment a portion of that amount (b), the marginal propensity to consume, is immediately respent. This precipitates a perpetual turnover of each fractional amount throughout time such that the level of expenditures eventually amounts to (1/1‐b) times the initial increase in investment. The total impact on the level of income resulting from an increase in investment or government expenditures is called the multiplier. As derived in the macro‐economic models no leakages from the system to reduce the total impact are assumed, so that in reality the multiplier is considered to fall short of (1/1‐b).
On a Conjecture of Bechhofer, Kiefer, and Sobel for the Levin-Robbins-Leu Binomial Subset Selection Procedures

Abstract We state a general formula that provides a lower bound for the probability of various types of acceptable subset selection with the Levin–Robbins–Leu binomial subset selection procedure without elimination or recruitment. We prove the truth of a conjecture of Bechhofer, Kiefer, and Sobel for this procedure by applying the general lower bound. We also introduce a simple modification that allows sequential elimination of inferior populations and recruitment of superior populations. Numerical evidence indicates that the new procedure also obeys the general lower bound while reducing the expected number of observations and failures compared with nonadaptive methods.
Performance bounds for massive MIMO uplink

In this paper, we consider massive MIMO uplink using maximum ratio combining (MRC) and zero forcing (ZF) receivers with perfect and imperfect channel state information (CSI). We derive lower and upper bounds on the achievable rates with arbitrary power allocation. Analytical and simulation results illustrate the accuracy and characteristics of the rate bounds.
AMYLASE ENZYMES ISOLATED FROM INCUBATED DE‐EMBRYONATED MAIZE KERNELS

SUMMARY An enzyme extract prepared from incubated, de-embryonated maize (Zea mays L.) kernels was resolved into three major amylase activities by ion-exchange chromatography using DEAE-cellulose. These activities, designated peak I, II and III in order of their elution, were further analysed utilizing isoelectric focusing. The pi values of peaks I and II were found to be 4.55 and 4.95 respectively. The activity contained in peak III was separated into two isoelectric components with pI's of 4.30 and 5.05. Each of the four isoelectric forms showed distinct electrophoretic properties on polyacrylamide gels. Peak I contained (β-amylase on the basis of its inactivation by 10−5M HgCl2, lack of protection against heat inactivation by added Ca2+, stable activity after dialysis against 10−2 M EDTA, and its sole reaction product with starch being identified as maltose. Peak II activity appeared to be an a-amylase as determined by its reaction products with starch and its stabilization against heat inactivation by added Ca2+, however, it was inactivated by HgCl2 treatment and dialysis against EDTA. The two isoelectric components of peak III were also characterized as a-amylase using the same criteria, with the 5.05 component being more sensitive to HgCl2 inactivation than the 4.30 component. All four isoelectric forms exhibited broad pH activity profiles.
Development of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers for use in commercial maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm

The development of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers in maize offers the opportunity to utilize DNA markers in many new areas of population genetics, gene discovery, plant breeding and germplasm identification. However, the steps from sequencing and SNP discovery to SNP marker design and validation are lengthy and expensive. Access to a set of validated SNP markers is a significant advantage to maize researchers who wish to apply SNPs in scientific inquiry. We mined 1,088 loci sequenced across 60 public inbreds that have been used in maize breeding in North America and Europe. We then selected 640 SNPs using generalized marker design criteria that enable utilization with several SNP chemistries. While SNPs were found on average every 43 bases in 1,088 maize gene sequences, SNPs that were amenable to marker design were found on average every 623 bases; representing only 7% of the total SNPs discovered. We also describe the development of a 768 marker multiplex assay for use on the Illumina® BeadArray™ platform. SNP markers were mapped on the IBM2 intermated B73 × Mo17 high resolution genetic map using either the IBM2 segregating population, or segregation in multiple parent-progeny triplets. A high degree of colinearity was found with the genetic nested association map. For each SNP presented we give information on map location, polymorphism rates in different heterotic groups and performance on the Illumina® platform.
Functional Models for Vanadium Haloperoxidase: Reactivity and Mechanism of Halide Oxidation

A series of oxoperoxovanadium(V) complexes (ligands: H3nta = nitrilotriacetic acid, H3heida = N-(2-hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid, H2ada = N-(2-amidomethyl)iminodiacetic acid, Hbpg = N,N-bis(2-pyridylmethyl)glycine, and tpa = N,N,N-tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine) were characterized as functional models for the vanadium haloperoxidase enzymes. The crystal structures of K[VO(O2)Hheida], K[VO(O2)ada], [VO(O2)bpg], and H[VO(O2)bpg]2(ClO4) were obtained. These complexes all possess a distorted pentagonal bipyramidal coordination sphere containing a side-on bound peroxide. In the presence of sufficient acid equivalents these complexes catalyze the two-electron oxidation of bromide or iodide by peroxide. Halogenation of an organic substrate was demonstrated by following the visible conversion of Phenol Red to Bromophenol Blue. In the absence of substrate, dioxygen can be generated by the halide-assisted disproportionation of hydrogen peroxide. In addition, some of these complexes can efficiently catalyze the perox...
Small-sum pairs for upper Banach density in countable abelian groups

Abstract M. Kneser analyzed the scenario m ( A + B ) m ( A ) + m ( B ) , where A and B are subsets of a locally compact abelian group with Haar measure m , showing in particular that A + B is a union of cosets of a compact open subgroup. Renling Jin proved an analogous result in the integers, where Haar measure is replaced by upper Banach density d ∗ . We extend Jin’s result to the setting of countable abelian groups, giving a new proof of Jin’s result in the process. We also classify the pairs of subsets A , B of a countable abelian group Γ satisfying d ∗ ( A + B ) = d ∗ ( A ) + d ∗ ( B ) ; the case Γ = Z answers a question of Jin.
Histochemical staining of rectal suction biopsies as the first investigation in patients with chronic constipation

Rectal suction biopsy (RSB) is the gold standard diagnostic procedure for disorders of bowel motility. This study describes our experience with RSB stained with histochemistry as the first diagnostic approach in a large series of patients presenting with chronic constipation. Between 1993 and 2005, 766 children underwent RSB for persistent chronic constipation. The specimens were snap frozen, sectioned and stained with conventional hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate diaphorase (NADPH-d) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) histochemical stainings. Adequate amount of submucosa was present in 655 (85.5%) out of 766 cases and formed the basis of this study. RSB in 540 (82%) patients were reported as normal. Hirschsprung's disease was found in 47 (7.2%) patients with characteristic features of absence of ganglion cells, increased AChE activity in the lamina propria and muscularis mucosae, thick nerve fibers in the submucosa, and a lack of NADPH-d-positive fibers in muscularis mucosae. RSB in 59 (9%) patients presented features of intestinal neuronal dysplasia such as submucosal hyperganglionosis, giant ganglia, ectopic ganglia and increased AChE activity in lamina propria. Hypoganglionosis was suspected in nine (1.3%) children because of sparse or absent ganglion cells and low AChE and NAPDH-d activity in muscularis mucosae. Three patients (0.4%) developed bleeding following RSB, requiring diathermy of the bleeding point. Thus, we conclude that RSB is a simple and safe method when used as the first diagnostic approach in patients with chronic constipation. The combination of two histochemical stainings techniques provides a high level of accuracy in the diagnosis of intestinal dysganglionosis.
Cutting mechanics in high speed dry machining of biomedical magnesium–calcium alloy using internal state variable plasticity model

Abstract Magnesium–Calcium (MgCa) alloys become attractive orthopedic biomaterials due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and congruent mechanical properties with bone tissues. However, process mechanics of cutting biomedical MgCa alloys is poorly understood. Mechanical properties of the biomedical magnesium alloy at high strain rates and large strains are determined using the split-Hopkinson pressure bar testing method. Internal state variable (ISV) plasticity model is implemented to model the material behavior under cutting regimes. A finite element analysis (FEA) model has been developed to study the chip formation during high speed dry cutting of MgCa0.8 (wt%) alloy. Continuous chip formation predicted by finite element simulation is verified by high speed dry face milling of MgCa0.8 using polycrystalline diamond (PCD) inserts. Chip ignition as the most hazardous aspect in machining Mg alloys does not occur in high-speed dry cutting with sharp PCD tools. The predicted temperature distribution well explains the reason for the absence of chip ignition in high speed dry cutting of MgCa0.8 alloy. In addition, sporadic surface deterioration and void marks on the back face of chips are explained.
Anomaly Detection Using Non-Parametric Information

Diagnostics and prognostics is particularly challenging in systems with a restricted suite of sensors; e.g., in aircraft engines where harsh operating conditions, weight considerations, and regulatory concerns limit the number of sensors. In this paper, we investigate anomaly detection techniques subject to these constraints. Specifically, we use as input to these techniques only controller-generated, log-data for the system. While such log-data is not designed to carry predictive information related to system health, we show that it is possible to extract early warning signals related to the failure of the system by looking for the presence or onset of anomalous or novel patterns in the log-data. We present preliminary results obtained by the application of this approach to some complex systems. We also provide a roadmap for extending this approach by the incorporation of minimal amount of system-specific knowledge of the kind that is typically available for complex systems. This extension is expected to strengthen the applicability of the approach to diagnostic and prognostic analysis at the level of the system components, as well as to the estimation of the root cause of a detected system anomaly.Copyright © 2007 by General Electric Company
The inheritance of social dominance, mating behaviour and attractiveness to mates in male Nauphoeta cinerea

Abstract In the cockroach Nauphoeta cinerea , male social behaviour is influenced by sexual selection due to mate choice by females for dominant males. This paper reports the results of breeding experiments in N. cinerea that document genetic variation in (1) male dominance rank, (2) components of courtship associated with differences in dominance rank and important in male mating success, and (3) male attractiveness to females. Dominant males typically produced offspring that were dominant in social interactions as adults; subordinate males produced subordinate offspring. Estimates of narrow-sense and broad-sense heritabilities of sexually selected male courtship behaviour indicated that moderate to high additive genetic variation persists despite sexual selection. Estimates of genetic correlations for different components of courtship and mating suggested similar genetic influences and that these components reflect male attractiveness to females. In addition to the variability in the length of interactions leading to copulation, some males were consistently rejected as mates. Male attractiveness to females was therefore a threshold character with two levels of expression; this acceptance/rejection threshold was also heritable. These results are consistent with studies of sexually selected morphology and suggest that there may be general patterns involved in the genetics of sexually selected traits.
Correlations between assessed manual laterality and predicted speech laterality in a normal population

Abstract The correlation of handedness and lateral speech representation was investigated in an adult normal population of left- and right-handers. Handedness was assessed by multivariate analysis of manual test scores. Assessment of speech laterality was based on scores derived from the Dichotic Listening Test. Results showed that: (1) self-reports of “left-handedness” were unreliable estimates of manual performance; (2) self-classified left-handers, in contrast to right-handers, varied along levels of both manual and speech laterality; (3) the association between speech and manual laterality was greater when handedness was based on multiple performance scores; (4) familial sinistrality was twice as frequent in those test-classified left- and right-handers who showed speech representation on the same side as the dominant hand.
Volvulus of the transverse colon: Report of case and review of the literature

A case of transverse colon volvulus is reported, bringing the total number of collected cases in the English language medical literature to 45. Although this type of volvulus is rare, a definite pattern can be appreciated. Patients tend to be young, female, and give a history of chronic or recurrent difficulty in having bowel movements. A triad of underlying factors predisposes to the development of the volvulus: a distal impediment (either organic or functional) to the evacuation of the bowel, a redundant bowel and mesocolon, and a fixed point around which the bowel can twist. The best treatment is resection with either anastomosis or exteriorization, depending on bowel viability.
Psychosis in association with combined cimetidine and imipramine treatment.

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Capture-Cross-Section Studies for 30—220-keV Neutrons Using a New Technique

Neutron-radiative-capture cross sections have been measured at various energies from 30-220 keV using a new "total-energy-detector" technique of high sensitivity, applicable to small samples of separated stable isotopes. Samples studied are: V, Fe, Ni, $^{86}\mathrm{Sr}$, $^{87}\mathrm{Sr}$, Y, Nb, Rh, Ag, $^{122}\mathrm{Te}$, $^{123}\mathrm{Te}$, $^{124}\mathrm{Te}$, $^{125}\mathrm{Te}$, $^{126}\mathrm{Te}$, $^{128}\mathrm{Te}$, $^{130}\mathrm{Te}$, I, Eu, $^{175}\mathrm{Lu}$, $^{176}\mathrm{Lu}$, W, Au, $^{204}\mathrm{Pb}$, and $^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$. The odd-odd isotope $^{176}\mathrm{Lu}$ shows a substantially higher cross section than those of neighboring odd-even and even-odd nuclei. The results for europium (2 b near 65 keV) emphasize the peak expected from previous studies of systematics. The Sr and Te isotopic results strongly confirm the predictions of $s$-process stellar nucleosynthesis.
A framework for classifying flexibility types in manufacturing

Abstract In today's dynamic and uncertain manufacturing environment, flexibility is one of the most sought-after properties for manufacturing systems. Despite this interest, flexibility remains poorly understood in theory and utilised in practice. One of the underlying reasons for this is the fact that there is no general agreement on how to define flexibility: over 70 terms can be found in the literature. This paper is concerned with developing a unified framework for classifying the various types of flexibilities found in manufacturing. The framework is an attempt to provide both a mechanism for classifying existing flexibility types and understanding their relationships, and a foundation for future efforts in defining flexibility types and measures. The framework is developed based upon the architectural concepts of a ‘basic mechanism model’ and system design activity, and a system/environment model. Examples of how some existing flexibility types may be classified according to the framework are given.
Ocean disposal of CO2: Feasibility, economics and effects

Abstract The ocean represents a hugh natural reservoir for carbon dioxide disposal, since it covers 70% of the Earth's surface and has an average depth of 3800 m. Most importantly, the deeper layers are highly unsaturated with CO2, containing typically 0.1 kgm−3, whereas the solubility is in the order of 40 kgm−3. The problems of deep ocean disposal are of technical, economic and ecological nature. In order to assure a sufficiently long residence time in the ocean, CO2 has to be injected below the thermocline, 1000 m or deeper. Current pipe-laying and servicing technology extends only to 500 – 1000 m. However, it is possible to release liquid CO2 in that region in a manner that it will form a dense solution of CO2 in seawater and/or solid particles of CO2 hydrate. Both the solution and hydrate are heavier than ambient seawater, and hence sink to greater depth or to the ocean floor. Pipe laying costs are estimated in the $1–2 million per km, exclusive of the release system cost. While global effects of CO2 disposal in the ocean are considered negligible, local effects on aquatic life around the discharge point may raise concerns. The turbulent, anoxyc, acidic plume may have adverse effects on mesopelagic organisms, and the sinking hydrate particles may bury benthic creatures.
Infectious diseases of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas

The Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, is known for not having been affected by major epizootics of infectious diseases, unlike many other commercially important oysters worldwide. Nonetheless, review of the scientific literature reveals more than ten infectious diseases of this species including those with viral, bacterial, protozoan, and metazoan etiologies. These include diseases of larval, juvenile, and adult oysters. Diseases such as oyster velar virus disease, herpes-like infection, and ligament disease are known because of their importance in intensive husbandry systems of this bivalve. Nocardiosis, Marteilioides infection, haplosporidiosis, Denman Island disease, and others are primarily known from their effect on extensively cultured populations of the Pacific oyster. These diseases are reviewed in terms of their disease manifestations, etilogy, epizootiology and economic importance, prevention, and management and diagnosis.
Clinically silent progressive renal tubulointerstitial disease during cisplatin chemotherapy

Background. Chronic cisplatin nephrotoxicity is well documented in animal models but not well characterized in humans. The authors report a 56-year-old woman who had end-stage chronic tubulointerstitial nephropathy develop during treatment with multiple courses of cisplatin chemotherapy for ovarian carcinoma. Methods. A biopsy was performed to determine the etiology of renal failure, and the morphologic, immunofluorescent, and ultrastructural findings are reported. The clinical history and morphologic findings were analyzed to identify possible causes, other than cisplatin, of chronic renal disease. Results. Morphologic studies showed extensive renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis with relative sparing of glomeruli. Conclusions. Profound, progressive renal injury occurred during cisplatin treatment despite adherence to treatment protocols designed to minimize such toxicity. Renal injury was undetected by pretreatment serum creatinine determinations. This case and others emphasize the relative insensitivity of this test for chronic renal damage during treatment with nephrotoxic drugs.
SU-E-J-262: Segmentation in Therapy: Impact of Display

Purpose: To determine the calibration of monitors used for structure delineation in radiotherapy and to investigate the impact of window/level on the delineations. Method and Materials: hotometers were used to measure ambient light and luminance for 12 monitors used for delineating structures in radiotherapy. Luminance was determined using AAPM TG-18 patterns TG18-LN12-01 to TG18-LN12-18. The DICOM grayscale display function (GSDF) was calculated for each monitor. To investigate the impact of window and level eight observers each outlined two sets of structures (four structures per set) on CT simulation images. In the first set window and level were initialized at random values and the observers adjusted as needed. In the second set window and level were locked at preselected values for all observers. Results: Ambient light variability at different displays was 24% and was higher than radiology reading rooms. Monitor luminance curves were substantially different than the corresponding GSDF. Monitors demonstrated higher contrast than the GSDF in the lower third of driving levels and lower contrast in the upper third of driving levels. Increased contrast at low driving levels may be to compensate for high ambient light which would otherwise reduce contrast. Abrupt changes in luminance and loss of all contrast at both upper and lower driving levels was observed. Interobserver variability was 379HU for window and 217HU for level. Outline variability was lower when the window and level settings were similar and when they were preselected. Structures without sharp boundaries (e.g., partial volume and a wide window value) resulted in substantial interobserver variability even when window/level were preselected. Conclusion: Substantial variation in monitor calibration and ambient light exists in radiotherapy. Further, the substantially different window/level contributes to outline variability. Future work will quantify the contributions of monitor calibration and window/level on outline variability and accuracy.
Antigens of Onchocerca volvulus

Most studies on immunologic responses to Onchocerca volvulus have employed extracts or antigens from related filarial parasites. Consequently, little is known about the nature of O. volvulus antigens. Potential antigen sources include in vitro cultures and physicochemical fractionation of O. volvulus extracts. IgE antibody responses to a wide range of antigens occur in patients with onchocerciasis, but there is little evidence of species specificity in serologic tests. Some potent allergens are released by microfilariae, but host serum proteins appear to contaminate the most reactive fractions obtained thus far. Antibody-mediated cell adherence to microfilariae of O. volvulus occurs in vitro, and both stage and species specificity have been demonstrated. Monoclonal antibodies to O. volvulus antigens have been prepared, but, unfortunately, all to date show cross-reactivity to antigens of other filarial nematodes. Circulating antigens have been detected in patients' sera; no data are available yet on the specificity of these components. Research needs include the need for species- and stage-specific reagents for immunodiagnostic assays and for investigations on immunopathogenic mechanisms in onchocercal disease.
MDA-7/IL-24 plus radiation enhance survival in animals with intracranial primary human GBM tumors

Melanoma differentiation associated gene-7/interleukin 24 (mda-7/IL-24) is a cytokine displaying selective apoptosis-inducing activity in tumors, including glioblastoma (GBM), without damaging normal cells. The present studies focused on defining whether an adenovirus expressing MDA-7/IL-24, Ad.mda-7, infused into pre-formed invasive primary human GBM tumors growing in athymic mouse brains altered tumor cell growth and animal survival, and whether Ad.mda-7 radiosensitized GBM cells and enhanced the survival benefit of irradiation. Ad.mda-7 directly radiosensitized glioma cells in vitro in a JNK1-3- and caspase 9-dependent fashion and demonstrated bystander-effect killing and radiosensitization of GBM cells when primary human astrocytes were infected with Ad.mda-7. Infusion of Ad.mda-7 into pre-formed glioma tumors caused a rapid decrease in proliferation and blood vessel density and an increase in cell killing. Irradiation of Ad.mda-7 infected tumors enhanced cell death. Cell killing correlated with pro-caspase 3 cleavage, enhanced phosphorylation of JNK1-3 and reduced phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Ad.mda-7 enhanced the survival of animals implanted with GBM6 and GBM12 tumors, and significantly increased the survival benefit of irradiation in animals bearing GBM12 tumors. Ad.mda-7 toxicity was evident against CD133+ and CD133- GBM cells; upon tumor re-growth approximately 70-100 days after virus infusion, the relative CD133+ level within the tumor was profoundly reduced with lower Ki67 reactivity and increased beta-galactosidase staining. Infusion of Ad.mda-7 into an immune competent rat brain did not cause normal tissue toxicity 1-4 weeks after infusion using T1 and T2 weighted MRI and H&E staining. Our data demonstrate that Ad.mda-7 prolongs the survival of animals bearing GBM tumors and does so through multiple mechanisms including direct tumor cell killing and selection for surviving cells that are more differentiated and potentially displaying a putatively senescent phenotype.
THEORETICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE PARTICLE SIZE SPECTRUM OF STRATOSPHERIC AEROSOL

Abstract An equation is derived for the time rate of change of the size spectrum function of the stratospheric aerosol. Based on the assumption of local equilibrium between the effects of coagulation and sedimentation, a form is deduced for the shape of the upper end of the size spectrum function, that is the range of radii larger than about 0.1 microns. Dimensional considerations indicate that the equilibrium range may include two subranges in which the spectrum function varies with the particle radius as r−2 and r−4. The theoretical predictions are consistent with available experimental data. The theory should permit the estimation of complete particle size spectra from a minimum amount of experimental data. A similarity transformation is given for the lower end of the size spectrum. Based on the transformation, a law of decay with time, t, is derived for the total particulate concentration, N. The decay law is of the form 1/N2 ∼ N t.
The Relationship between Parents’ Beliefs about Development and Family Constellation, Socioeconomic Status, and Parents’ Teaching Strategies

Many studies have indicated that children’s performance on intelligence or achievement tests varies with family constellation factors such as number of children in the family, spacing between children, and the birth order of the child (Belmont & Marolla, 1973; Belmont, Stein, & Susser, 1975; Dandes && Dow, 1969; Davis, Cahan, & Bashi, 1976; Kellaghan & MacNamara, 1972; Kennett & Cropley, 1970; Marjoribanks, Walberg, & Bargen, 1975; Zajonc, 1976; Zajonc & Markus, 1975) as well as with socioeconomic status (SES) of the parents (Laosa, chapter 1; Lesser, Fifer, & Clark, 1965; Mumbauer & Miller, 1970; Thomas, 1971; Tulkin, 1968). In general it has been found that children from small families, families with large spacing between children, first-born children, and middle- or upper-class children perform better than other children on tests of intellectual ability.
Bidirectional movement of γ-aminobutyric acid in cerebral cortex slices incubated in small volumes of medium

Abstract Rat cerebral cortex slices were incubated in small volumes of medium in order to study the bidirectional movement of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) between tissue and medium, and to measure the extent of release of endogenous amino acids of interest as potential neurotransmitters. The apparent uptake, real uptake, and net change of GABA were calculated from the changes in [ 14 C]GABA and endogenous GABA in the medium. The extent of release of endogenous amino acids was dependent upon the amino acid, the duration of incubation, and the volume of incubating medium. Substantial amounts of endogenous amino acids may accumulate in the medium under conditions commonly employed in amino acid uptake studies. The accumulation of endogenous GABA may affect the calculation of GABA uptake when this is based on the initial specific activity of exogenous [ 14 C]GABA. The difference between apparent uptake and real uptake was particularly prominent in the presence of the depolarizing agents, potassium or veratridine, which caused a marked increase in GABA release. Exchange or net release of GABA was found when slices were incubated briefly in media containing 1.3 μM or 12.5 μM exogenous GABA; net uptake accounted for 50% of observed uptake when slices were incubated in media containing 25 μM GABA.
Sensors and Hybrid Therapies: A New Approach with Automated Citrate Anticoagulation

Background: Hybrid therapies use intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) machines adapted to provide prolonged intermittent or continuous renal replacement therapy in the intensive care unit (ICU). Despite the low cost, hybrid therapy use is limited warranting a novel approach. Methods: The literature was reviewed for limitations of hybrid protocols, use of regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) on hybrid systems and sensors for IHD and hybrid therapy. The novel hybrid program in the authors’ institution is presented as a plausible future direction for the modality. Results: Hybrid therapies are limited by access flow and clotting alarms. Technology limitations render many IHD sensors inoperable at low dialysate flow. A synergy with RCA allows a novel, safe approach with low blood flows and high dialysate flows with alarm- and clotting-free operation and all commercial IHD sensors functional. Conclusion: The low cost, ease of use, safety and efficacy of hybrid therapy with near-automated RCA may lead to rapid expansion of this form of ICU renal support.