cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The microdosimetry of boron neutron capture therapy in a randomised ellipsoidal cell geometry.

Two reactions deliver the majority of local dose in boron neutron capture therapy. The ionised particles (protons, alpha particles and lithium nuclei) produced in the two reactions, 1 0 B(n,α,γ) 7 Li and 1 4 N(n,p) 1 4 O, have short ranges that are less than ∼14 μm (which is on the order of the diameter of a typical human cell). The ionised particles are heavy and are in the 2 + charge state in the case of the boron reactions. These heavy 2 + ions will do significant damage to molecules near their tracks. Thus, the distribution of nitrogen and, in particular, of boron determines the spatial characteristics of the radiation field. Since the distribution of nitrogen is nearly homogeneous in the brain and is not easily altered for the purpose of radiotherapy, the spatial variation in the radiation dose is due mainly to the spatial distribution of boron. This implies that the spatial distribution of boron determines the microscopic energy deposition and therefore the spatial characteristics of the microscopic dose. The microscopic dose from the (n,α) and (n,p) reactions has been examined in detail and, as averred, the proton dose is relatively homogeneous except for statistical variability. The statistical variability in essence adds a false spatial variability that would not be seen if a large number of histories were performed. Since the majority of spatial variability occurs in the boron distribution, the (n,p) reaction can be suppressed to better understand the spatial distribution effects on the microscopic dose. Programs have been written in FORTRAN using Monte Carlo techniques to model ellipsoidal cells that are either randomly sized and located in the region of interest or are arranged in a face centred cubic array and are identical except for the location of the nuclei, which may be random. It is shown that closely packed prolate ellipsoidal cells with a large eccentricity in one dimension will receive a larger nuclear dose than cells that are more sparsely packed. This demonstrates that the boron content of a cell and its nucleus can have a significant impact upon the dose to neighbouring cells. The local boron distribution in a region of interest can be shown to affect the macrodosimetric dose, with possible implications for clinical outcomes.
B-convexity of the space of 2-summing operators

If π2 (E, F), the class of 2-summing operators fromE intoF, isB-convex, then bothE andF have cotypeq for allq>2. On the other hand, ifE is super-reflexive and has cotype 2, then π2(l 2,E) is super-reflexive.
Involvement of the chaperone protein calnexin and the acetylcholine receptor beta-subunit in the assembly and cell surface expression of the receptor

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor at the neuromuscular junction is a ligand-gated ion channel assembled in the endoplasmic reticulum from four distinct glycoprotein subunits into the pentameric configuration of alpha2betagammadelta. The individual homologous subunits form specific contacts at interfaces with neighboring subunits to achieve the appropriate orientation and order of each subunit in surrounding the ion channel. Assembly is thought to proceed through the formation of intermediates composed of dimers of the alphadelta and alphagamma subunits which are eventually joined by the beta-subunit to achieve a circular structure enclosing the gated ion channel. In this study, we transfect cDNAs encoding receptor subunits in various combinations into HEK-293 cells to identify intracellular factors that influence the assembly and cell surface expression of the receptor. Our data derived from brefeldin A-treated cells indicate that intracellular association of the receptor subunits with the beta-subunit increases the pool of fully assembled receptors available for transport to the cell surface, presumably by protection from degradation. In addition, we determined that the chaperone protein calnexin is associated with the isolated alpha-, beta-, and delta-subunits of the receptor, but calnexin is not detected in association with assembled alphadelta subunit dimers. Calnexin is also detected in association with maturely folded, unassembled alpha-subunits, as observed by the recognition of this complex by the monoclonal antibody mAb 35, believed to be specific for correctly folded alpha-subunits. Thus, calnexin appears to associate with the individual nascent subunits, thereby facilitating their assembly into the mature pentameric receptor.
Bulimia in adolescents: Prevalence and psychosocial correlates

A bulimic episode during adolescence appears to be a risk factor for chronic eating disorders, yet little is known about the prevalence or psychosocial correlates of bulimia in this age group. The prevalence of bulimia was determined in a geographically, racially, and economically diverse sample of 1,373 high school boys and girls. In addition to DSM-III criteria, a minimum binge-eating frequency of once per month was employed. For bulimia, with purging, a minimum purging frequency of once per month was employed. Bulimia was identified in 9.6% of girls (with purging, 2.2%; without purging, 7.4%) and in 1.2% of boys (with purging, 0.1%; without purging, 1.1%). The two subtypes of bulimia subjects were demographically and psychologically equivalent. Bulimia subjects (combined) did not differ from normals on race, age, or SES. Bulimics exhibited more negative body image, negative self-esteem, social anxiety, and depression than normals. In the total sample of students, general eating disorder symptomatology was predicted by measures of body image, depression, and social anxiety in girls and by body image and depression in boys.
Improved oral delivery of resveratrol using proliposomal formulation: investigation of various factors contributing to prolonged absorption of unmetabolized resveratrol

Objectives: The objective of this study was to design lipid-based formulation to enhance the absorption of unmetabolized resveratrol (RSV) over adequate time and investigate various factors that contribute to prolonged absorption of RSV. Methods: Proliposomal formulations containing distearoyl phosphatidyl choline (DSPC) with or without cholesterol were prepared and evaluated. The liposomes obtained from hydration of proliposomal mixture were evaluated for size, zeta, physical appearance and entrapment. The integrity of liposomes in bile salt solution and solubility of RSV in sodium taurocholate solution in the presence of various concentrations of DSPC were evaluated to assess the stability and in varied gastrointestinal conditions. Finally, oral pharmacokinetic studies of liposomal dispersions in comparison with RSV solution were evaluated. Results: Results revealed that spontaneous formation of liposomes did not occur upon hydration of RSV: DSPC proliposomes rather showed tendency to form loose cotton-...
Microscopic Calculation of Dielectric Loss at Microwave Frequencies for Complex Perovskite Ba(Zn1/3Ta2/3)O3

The dielectric loss tangent at microwave frequencies for the complex perovskite Ba(Zn1/3Ta2/3)O3 was calculated with respect to the degree of structural disorder on B sites. Starting out from the equations of ion motion, dielectric loss was expressed in terms of the pair-correlation functions corresponding to the ordering of Zn and Ta ions on B sites. The characteristic length included in the pair-correlation functions corresponds to the average size of the region containing disorder in ion arrangements on B sites; thus the relation between the structural disorder on the B site and the dielectric loss tangent at microwave frequencies was clarified theoretically. The numerical results show that the microwave loss tangent values change their power from – 3 to – 6 with increasing degree of order on the B site, which agrees well with the experimental observations. Results obtained here confirm the physical origin of the microwave loss of complex perovskite Ba(Zn1/3Ta2/3)O3.
Treatment of urticaria and angioedema: Low-sedating H1-type antihistamines

Abstract H 1 -type antihistamines are considered the therapeutic agents of choice for treating urticaria and angioedema. The use of traditional H 1 antihistamines is limited by their side effects. In recent years low-sedating H 1 antihistamines with reduced sedative and anticholinergic side effects have become popular choices for the treatment of urticaria and angioedetna. Terfenadine and astemizole are currently available in the United States, and cetirizine and lorata-dine, currently under review at the Food and Drug Administration, are available in other countries. Terfenadine, cetirizine, and loratadine achieve rapid peak plasma concentrations in 1 to 2 hours, whereas astemizole has a slow onset of action. In double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of chronic idiopathic urticaria, low-sedating H 1 antihistamines were more effective than placebo. The choice of a particular low-sedating H 1 antihistamine depends on pharmacokinetic considerations and frequency of administration.
Land use and management change under climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies: a U.S. case study

We examine the effects of crop management adaptation and climate mitigation strategies on land use and land management, plus on related environmental and economic outcomes. We find that crop management adaptation (e.g. crop mix, new species) increases Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 1.7 % under a more severe climate projection while a carbon price reduces total forest and agriculture GHG annual flux by 15 % and 9 %, respectively. This shows that trade-offs are likely between mitigation and adaptation. Climate change coupled with crop management adaptation has small and mostly negative effects on welfare; mitigation, which is implemented as a carbon price starting at $15 per metric ton carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent with a 5 % annual increase rate, bolsters welfare carbon payments. When both crop management adaptation and carbon price are implemented the effects of the latter dominates.
Contribution to the reaction kinetics of water soluble aerosols and SO2 in air at ppm concentrations

Abstract A laboratory study of the heterogeneous catalysis of sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere involved the determination of the rate of atmospheric oxidation of sulfur dioxide to sulfuric acid in the presence of aerosols which were selected metal salts previously reported to act as catalysts. A new aerosol stabilizing technique was developed in which aerosol particles were deposited on inert supporting Teflon beads. The deposition was carried out in a fluidized-bed to ensure discrete aerosol deposition and to achieve a uniform distribution of aerosol concentration on the supporting beads. Because neither the physical shape of the aerosol nor their chemical properties were altered by the stabilizing process, kinetic data obtained in the laboratory by using stabilized aerosols can be extrapolated to describe reactions which may occur in the atmospheric environment. Teflon beads with deposited aerosol particles were packed into a flow reactor. The catalytic oxidation of sulfur dioxide occurred within the reactor as sulfur dioxide gas in humid air mixture flowed through it. The reactor influent sulfur dioxide concentrations ranged from 3 to 18 ppm. Progress of the chemical reaction was continuously monitored by determining the sulfur dioxide concentrations in the reactor effluent with a microcoulometer. Reaction products were identified and quantified by analyzing the reactor contents after the completion of an experimental run. It was observed that higher rates of sulfur dioxide oxidation were always associated with higher relative humidities of the air mixture. Because aerosol particles hydrated into solution drops at high relative humidities, the predominant mass transfer mechanism was absorption of sulfur dioxide by aqueous catalyst drops accompanied by chemical reaction in the liquid phase. Experimental results indicated that the over-all rate of reaction was controlled by the chemical reaction. Milligram for milligram, aerosols of MnSO4, MnCl2, and CuSO4 were found to be 12.2, 3.5, and 2.4 times as effective as NaCl aerosol in promoting the oxidation of sulfur dioxide. CuCl2 aerosol acted as a reactant in its reaction with sulfur dioxide; sulfur dioxide was oxidized to sulfuric acid while CuCl2 was reduced CuCl. When MnSO4 aerosol was used as catalyst, a reaction rate equation was derived which showed that the over-all reaction rate was first order with respect to the sulfur dioxide concentration in the gas phase. By extrapolating laboratory results to the industrial atmospheric environment, the rate of oxidation of sulfur dioxide in natural fog was estimated to be 2 per cent h/t-1.
Nuclear data sheets for A = 173

Experimental data pertaining to all nuclei with mass A = 173 have been evaluated. Level schemes from both radioactive decay and reaction studies are presented, along with associated tables of experimental data and adopted properties for levels and ..gamma.. rays. This evaluation for A = 173, which considers data received by September 1987, supersedes the 1975 compilation of B. Harmatz and D.J. Horen (75Ha15), published in Nuclear Data Sheets 14, 297 (1975). copyright 1988 Academic Press, Inc.
Linear quadratic optimal control for symmetric systems

Special symmetries are present in many control problems. This paper addresses the problem of determining linear-quadratic optimal control problems whose solutions preserve the symmetry of the initial linear control system.
Spatio-temporal pattern discrimination in cats with insular-temporal lesions.

Abstract Previous studies have demonstrated that cats with bilateral insular-temporal lesions are impaired in their ability to perform temporal pattern discriminations of the general form A—B-A vs B-A—B. This deficit has been seen to occur when A and B are made up of two different auditory, visual, or vibrotactile stimuli. These data suggest that insular-temporal cortex is a multimodal area concerned with the perception of temporal sequences of stimuli. The present study extends these earlier observations by testing insular-temporal lesioned cats on a spatio-temporal pattern discrimination. A spatio-temporal pattern is defined as one in which the same stimulus is presented to the animal sequentially from different spatial locations. The data indicate that insular-temporal lesions disrupt a spatio-temporal pattern discrimination just as they do auditory, visual, or vibrotactile temporal pattern discriminations. Insular-temporal cortex appears to be critical for certain higher order perceptual abilities in the cat.
Hidden conflicts: Explanations make inconsistencies harder to detect

A rational response to an inconsistent set of propositions is to revise it in a minimal way to restore consistency. A more important psychological goal is usually to create an explanation that resolves the inconsistency. We report five studies showing that once individuals have done so, they find inconsistencies harder to detect. Experiment 1 established the effect when participants explained inconsistencies, and Experiment 2 eliminated the possibility that the effect was a result of demand characteristics. Experiments 3a and 3b replicated the result, and showed that it did not occur in control groups that evaluated (or justified) which events in the pairs of assertions were more surprising. Experiment 4 replicated the previous findings, but the participants carried out all the conditions acting as their own controls. In all five studies, control conditions established that participants were able to detect comparable inconsistencies. Their explanations led them to re-interpret the generalizations as holding by default, and so they were less likely to treat the pairs of assertions as inconsistent. Explanations can accordingly undo the devastating consequences of logical inconsistencies, but at the cost of a subsequent failure to detect them.
Performance and Passing Rate Differences of African American and White Prospective Teachers on PraxisTM Examinations: A Joint Project of the National Education Association (NEA) and Educational Testing Service (ETS)

This report focuses on two aspects of teacher supply and quality: (a) the under-representation of racial/ethnic minorities, especially African Americans in the teaching pool, and (b) teacher candidates' performance on licensure assessments, including general skills tests in reading, writing, and mathematics (known as Praxis I®) and selected tests covering areas of content and pedagogy (known as Praxis II®). The report presents trends in the overall and minority teaching workforce, utilizes some of the available PraxisTM program data, combined with interviews of faculty and students involved in college and university teacher preparation programs, to address supply, achievement, and performance gaps between prospective minority and White teachers. African American candidates are the focal group in this report, in order to gauge the effect that Praxis has on the supply of prospective African American teachers and to generate ideas for closing gaps. Other minority Praxis test-taking populations in the selected states are not included because these are not large enough to produce sufficient data from which to make valid inferences. The research was collaboratively planned and guided by National Education Association and Educational Testing Service to use Praxis data for addressing the following questions: (a) What are the trends in minority representation among teacher candidates, (b) What are the differences between majority and minority candidates' performance on both Praxis I and Praxis II, (c) Are the performance differences reflected in the state licensing pass rates of majority and minority candidates, and (d) What factors should be targeted to reduce racial/ethnic group performance differences on Praxis I and Praxis II.
TMJ Symptom Severity and EMG Silent Periods

The hypotheses that latency or duration of the EMG silent period evoked by a tap to the chin during a maximal clench would be more prolonged in more severe TMJ patients were tested. The mean latency did not, and the mean duration did, increase significantly with increased severity of TMJ dysfunction.
7-Tesla Susceptibility-Weighted Imaging to Assess the Effects of Radiotherapy on Normal-Appearing Brain in Patients With Glioma

Purpose To evaluate the intermediate- and long-term imaging manifestations of radiotherapy on normal-appearing brain tissue in patients with treated gliomas using 7T susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI). Methods and Materials SWI was performed on 25 patients with stable gliomas on a 7 Tesla magnet. Microbleeds were identified as discrete foci of susceptibility that did not correspond to vessels. The number of microbleeds was counted within and outside of the T2-hyperintense lesion. For 3 patients, radiation dosimetry maps were reconstructed and fused with the 7T SWI data. Results Multiple foci of susceptibility consistent with microhemorrhages were observed in patients 2 years after chemoradiation. These lesions were not present in patients who were not irradiated. The prevalence of microhemorrhages increased with the time since completion of radiotherapy, and these lesions often extended outside the boundaries of the initial high-dose volume and into the contralateral hemisphere. Conclusions High-field SWI has potential for visualizing the appearance of microbleeds associated with long-term effects of radiotherapy on brain tissue. The ability to visualize these lesions in normal-appearing brain tissue may be important in further understanding the utility of this treatment in patients with longer survival.
Teaching strategies and assessment measures for rapidly changing technology programs

Technology changes rapidly in the Computer Graphics field and the faculty find themselves continually updating and changing their courses to keep step with current changes in the technology, both in hardware and software. Course consistency in the form of learning objectives and outcomes is an important assessment measure. Many problems can arise in assessment while keeping up with the technology, to the point where some assessment measures may become obsolete. In response to that, this paper will explore a number of questions that deal with the issue of rapidly changing technology within the learning situation along with assessing a program in this type of environment. Additionally, this paper will address a number of questions including: How does an educator keep up, and what is the significance in teaching the "old" technology verses the "new" or "upgraded" technology? How do educators assess student success? How does an educator assess the technology skill level and set a base for continued course assessment throughout a degree program? This paper will also explore the possibilities of setting up accreditation options to prepare for future computer graphics accreditation.
Theoretical study of carbon dioxide coordination in palladium complexes

Activation of the relatively inert CO 2 molecule to form higher organic molecules has been a focus of research for many years. Therefore, the coordination of CO 2 to transition metal fragments is of considerable interest. The coordination of CO 2 to transition metals may involve η 1 -O, η 1 -C, or η 2 -C,O bonding. The η 1 -C, or η 2 -C,O coordination with both early and late transition metal complexes are known. The ancillary ligands on the metal can play a significant role in effecting coordination of CO 2 to the metal center. Here we report a theoretical study of coordination modes of carbon dioxide to palladium complexes. The theoretical geometry and energies of a series of phosphine-substituted palladium carbon dioxide complexes, (PR 3 ) 2 Pd(CO 2 ), were investigated. The phosphine ligands included PH 3 , PMe 3 , PCy 3 , PMe 2 Ph, PMePh 2 , PPh 3 , P(OCH 3 ) 3 , P (CH=CH 2 ) 3 , PF 3 , PCl 3 , and PBr 3 . The electron-rich (PR 3 ) 2 Pd fragments can act as Lewis bases towards the CO 2 molecule. We have examined the phosphine ligand influence on the electron density of the palladium center. In all cases the η 2 -C,O bonding mode was lowest in energy. The interaction between metal fragment and CO 2 frontier orbitals will be presented in order to provide an understanding of Pd-CO 2 bonding.
Arm vein conduit is superior to composite prosthetic-autogenous grafts in lower extremity revascularization

Abstract Purpose: Various alternative conduits have been used for lower extremity revascularization when an adequate ipsilateral greater saphenous vein is absent. This study compared the effectiveness of all-autogenous multisegment arm vein bypass grafts with that of composite grafts composed of combined prosthetic and autogenous conduits. Methods: One hundred fifty-three lower extremity revascularization procedures performed between 1990 and 1998 were followed up prospectively using a computerized vascular registry. The grafts were composed of spliced arm vein segments with venovenostomy in 122 and of composite prosthetic-autogenous conduit in 31. Arm vein conduit was prepared by means of intraoperative angioscopy for valve lysis and identification of luminal abnormalities in 47.7% of cases. Results: Bypass graft configurations were as follows: femoropopliteal (12 arm vein, 2 composite); femorotibial (75 arm vein, 23 composite); femoropedal (14 arm vein, 6 composite), and popliteo-tibial/pedal (21 arm vein, 0 composite). The indication for surgery was limb salvage in 98% and disabling claudication in 2% of cases. The mean follow-up was 25.1 months (range, 1 month to 7.9 years). Overall survival at 4 years was 51%. Overall patency and limb salvage rates were as follows: primary patency, at 1 year—arm vein, 76.9% ± 4.8%; composite, 59.5% ± 9.6% ( P =.02); at 3 years—arm vein, 70.0% ± 8.0%; composite, 43.7% ± 12.4% ( P P =.02); at 3 years—arm vein, 70.7% ± 7.5%, composite, 44.9% ± 13.1% ( P P P Conclusion: In this study, multisegment autogenous arm vein was used successfully in a wide variety of lower extremity revascularization procedures and achieved good long-term patency and limb salvage rates, well in excess of those achieved with composite prosthetic-autogenous grafts. The use of autogenous conduit appears to offer superior results to composite conduit in lower extremity revascularization. The superior durability of arm vein makes it one of the alternative conduits of choice when an adequate greater saphenous vein is not available. (J Vasc Surg 2000;31:1119-27.)
Detection of Chlorodifluoroacetic Acid in Precipitation: A Possible Product of Fluorocarbon Degradation

Chlorodifluoroacetic acid (CDFA) was detected in rain and snow samples from various regions of Canada. Routine quantitative analysis was performed using an in-situ derivatization technique that allowed for the determination of CDFA by GC−MS of the anilide derivative. Validation of environmental CDFA was provided by strong anionic exchange chromatography and detection by 19F NMR. CDFA concentrations ranged from <7.1 to 170 ng L-1 among all samples analyzed. Monthly volume-weighted CDFA concentrations in rain event samples showed a seasonal trend between June and November 1998, peaking in late summer and decreasing in the fall for Guelph and Toronto sites. Preliminary toxicity tests with the aquatic macrophytes Myriophyllum sibiricum and Myriophyllum spicatum suggest that CDFA does not represent a risk of acute toxicity to these aquatic macrophytes at current environmental concentrations. A degradation study suggests that CDFA is recalcitrant to biotic and abiotic degradation relative to dichloroacetic acid...
The accounting implication of banking deregulation: an event study of Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (1999)

Bank regulation has undergone almost a complete circle from the Glass-Steagall Act (GSA, 1933), through a period of deregulation since 1980s, culminating in the repeal of GSA by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA, 1999), to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (DFA, 2010), which attempted to restore some of the rules under GSA. The GLBA allowed the largest U.S. bank holding companies to expand into more market-sensitive business activities, which contributed to a significant increase in their market, operating and accounting risks. Despite increasing reporting requirements, bank accounting information decreased in value relevance in terms of both earnings quality and Statistical Cost Relationship during the post-GLBA period. The increasing opaqueness in the bank accounting information weakened market efficiency and had a negative impact on the effectiveness of regulatory supervision. Lessons learned from the repeal of GSA are timely and relevant to the implementation of DFA.
Preparation and characterization of functionalized poly(vinyl chloride) membranes for selective separation of perchlorate from water

Abstract Perchlorate permselective membranes were synthesized and characterized in this study. The membrane with a thickness of ~300 μm was prepared with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and quaternary ammonium salts in solvent under room temperature. Among the 12 different quaternary ammonium salts, methyltributylammonium chloride (MTBA) showed superior perchlorate permselectivity due to in part to the favorable steric effect of the alkyl chain length. In addition, results from contact angle measurements indicated that modification with quaternary ammonium salts rendered the membranes hydrophobic. Results from Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum analysis showed that the functional groups responsible for ion exchange were incorporated in the membrane matrix successfully. The surface roughness, averaged pore radius and ion exchange capacity of the MTBA membrane were 3.23±2.58 (nm), 83.6 (A) and 0.12 (meq/g), respectively. The rate constants of anions transport across the membranes were calculated. In the presence of an electric field, about 60% of perchlorate was separated from the solution while only less than 9% of other anions, specifically, nitrate, sulfate and bicarbonate passed through the membrane under otherwise identical operation conditions simultaneously.
Ephestia Elutella Hubner, a New Pest of Cured Tobacco in the United States

On August 8, 1930, the moth Ephestia elutetla Hubner was, for the first time in the United States, found infesting stored leaf tobacco in a small number of warehouses in Richmond, Va. While the insect is cosmopolitan in distribution and has been reported as feeding upon a wide range of agricultural products including tobacco, its presence in Richmond in destructive numbers has stirred the tobacco industry to prompt action looking toward effective control. Bibliography.
Meditation as a Complementary Therapy in Cancer

The number of cancer patients seeking complementary therapies to deal with their disease has increased steadily in recent decades. Complementary therapies can be helpful to cancer patients because they address some of the pervasive psychosocial difficulties associated with this disease. One mind-body technique is meditation. While programs using meditation have been developed for specific health populations, such as heart disease and addictions, an equivalent, well-established program for cancer patients is lacking. This article reviews the literature and proposes a complementary meditation program designed specifically for use with cancer patients.
Diminished function of the somatotropic axis in older reproductive-aged women

Circulating GH and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) levels in adults generally fall with age. Studies in aging women have rarely controlled for menstrual cycle stage or status or body mass index. We hypothesized that GH and IGF-I levels in reproductive-aged women fall with age despite the stimulatory effects of endogenous estradiol (E2). Eight older reproductive-aged women (aged 42-46 yr) with regular menses, of normal weight, and in good health were compared to a group of eight young control subjects (aged 19-34 yr). Daytime frequent blood sampling was performed in the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle to characterize pulsatile GH and LH concentrations. Pooled samples were also analyzed for IGF-I, E2, progesterone, and FSH levels. Older reproductive-aged women had lower 12-h integrated daytime GH concentrations (mean +/- SE, 171 +/- 35 vs. 427 +/- 130 micrograms min/L; P = 0.036) than younger controls and a strong trend for lower IGF-I levels (22.7 +/- 2.1 vs. 31.3 +/- 3.5 nmol/L; P = 0.0...
Structural transition of gold nanoclusters: from the golden cage to the golden pyramid.

How nanoclusters transform from one structural type to another as a function of size is a critical issue in cluster science. Here we report a study of the structural transition from the golden cage Au16− to the pyramidal Au20−. We obtained distinct experimental evidence that the cage-to-pyramid crossover occurs at Au18−, for which the cage and pyramidal isomers are nearly degenerate and coexist experimentally. The two isomers are observed and identified by their different interactions with O2 and Ar. The cage isomer is observed to be more reactive with O2 and can be preferentially “titrated” from the cluster beam, whereas the pyramidal isomer has slightly stronger interactions with Ar and is favored in the Au18Arx− van der Waals complexes. The current study allows the detailed structural evolution and growth routes from the hollow cage to the compact pyramid to be understood and provides information about the structure−function relationship of the Au18− cluster.
The dynamic mating systems of conifers

Conifer mating systems vary among species and within species; both ecological variables and genetic variation cause mating systems to be dynamic. Within species, estimates of rates of outcrossing vary among populations, among loci, and among individuals within stands. The level of outcrossing varies with stand density, age, and the abundance of local and foreign pollen. Variation in the mating success of both males and females violates the assumption that populations are randomly mating and at equilibrium, and justifies more quantitative analyses of mating systems. Allelic frequencies in the pollen pool and in the pool of receptive female surfaces may vary through a season and among seasons, producing positively assortative mating in time. Seed and seedling viability selects against homozygotes for lethal alleles and favors heterozygous genotypes, biasing estimates of outcrossing. Particularly fruitful topics of research include the genetic consequences of polyembryony, differential male and female mating success, and associations between specific genotypes and floral phenology.
Acetylcholine in the brain. I. "Free," "bound" and total acetylcholine.

Abstract The existence of an alcohol-soluble, inactive compex of acetylcholine in cerebral tissue could not be confirmed. Acidulated alcohol was found to be a satisfactory extracting fluid for use in the determination of total Ach in brain tissue. Values observed by this method in dog, rabbit and rat brain are reported. Hypoxia did not change the total Ach content of dog brain frozen in situ. The Ach in excised cerebral tissue decreases slowly with time. After freezing and thawing, the decrease is very rapid. No decrease occurs if the tissue is frozen, ground, and subjected to alcoholic extraction while in the frozen state. Both synthesis and destruction of Ach were encountered in attempts to measure “free” and “bound” Ach in aqueous extracts of brain. The synthesis could be inhibited by addition of cupric chloride, but the destruction was not completely prevented by eserine. The tissue-bound Ach is largely released by thorough mechanical disintegration as well as by freezing and thawing. The ease with which this “complex” is disrupted by physical means makes the existence of a chemical combination appear improbable. It is concluded that measurements of “free” and “bound” Ach by aqueous extraction do not represent the state of affairs in the living brain.
Preferred frequencies for SETI observations

Abstract SETI observational programs conducted over the last two decades, and most of those planned for the near future, have concentrated on searching for signals at microwave frequencies. Considerations of signal-to-noise ratio at the receiving end indicate that this is the correct approach if the broadcasting society is not concerned with directionality and transmits into a fairly large solid angle. However, if that society desires to transmit only a highly directional beacon, then it is not now possible, given our lack of knowledge of advanced space technology, to predict reliably whether microwave or infrared wavelengths are to be preferred in an optimum search program. Given the realities of current terrestrial technology, either the centimeter or millimeter domain is to be preferred to the infrared, independent of considerations of directionality. In any event, there does not appear to be any cosmically unique (“magic”) frequency at which to conduct SETI.
The Secondary ESL Reading Course: Rationale and Implementation

CA: Resources for Teachers. Krashen, S.D., & Terrell, T.D. (1983). The natural approach. Oxford: Pergamon/ Alemany. McCarthy, B. (1981). The 4mat system: Teaching to learning styles with right/left mode techniques. Barrington, IL: Excel. Mohan, B.A. (1986). Language and content. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley. Piaget, J. (1966). The origins of intelligence in children (M. Cook, Trans.). New York: International Universities Press. (Original work published 1936) Ramirez, M., & Castafieda, A. (1974). Cultural democracy, bicognitive development and education. London: Academic Press. Smith, F. (1973). Psycholinguistics and reading. New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston.
Numerical modeling of tapered undulators

Abstract Tapered-undulator radiation will be used in at least one of the third generation synchrotron sources. While the spectral and angular characteristics of the radiation have been calculated for some specific configurations, the effects of tapering on the spectrum are still not well characterized. In this paper we have used an FFT-based method to calculate the spectral and angular distributions of the radiation from a tapered undulator with vertically-polarized magnetic field. The effect of tapering on the horizontal symmetry of the angular distribution of the radiation is investigated. A simple expression for the presence or absence of horizontal reflection symmetry as a function of the undulator parameters is derived. We have shown that for APS-type undulators and energies as high as 25 keV the radiation may be expected to exhibit horizontal reflection symmetry for observation angles up to 200 μrad. Our calculations are in agreement with recent measurements of the on-axis brightness of the prototype APS-CHESS undulator operated in the tapered configuration, and with results from well-established non-FFT programs.
Cyclic yield behavior of polycrystalline niobium

Abstract Previous investigations have shown the room temperature upper and lower yield point stress of b.c.c. iron and molybdenum can be completely removed by initially “elastic” cyclic stressing above the fatigue limit. The work described in this paper shows that the upper and lower yield point stresses in niobium can also be removed under these same conditions. The cyclic stress-strain curve of niobium was found cyclically to strain soften at small strain amplitudes and cyclically to strain harden at larger strains. Under constant cyclic strain amplitudes in the inelastic region, niobium cyclically strain hardens and quickly reaches a stable hysteresis loop. The cyclic yield point behavior described is explained in terms of localized cumulative multiplication of mobile dislocations.
Thoracocardiography. Part 2: Noninvasive measurement of changes in stroke volume; comparisons to impedance cardiograph.

The thoracocardiograph (TCG) displays cardiac oscillations transmitted to the external surface of the thorax through inductive plethysmographic transducers placed transversely around the thorax near or about the xiphoid process. Such signals, with the appearance of ventricular volume curves, were used to compute changes of stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (CO) in normal subjects. Their values were compared with changes of SV and CO measured with the impedance cardiograph (IC). Increases of SV and CO were produced with subcutaneous terbutaline and there was excellent agreement between TCG and IC values, best from TCG transducers placed at the xiphoid process and 3 cm caudal to it, although TCG locations 6 cm caudad and 3 cm cephalad to the xiphoid were also satisfactory. Since the site 3 cm caudad to the xiphoid process is known to anatomically transect solely a segment of the left ventricle, it was designated the TCG-Reference location. Both TCG and IC derived SV were not altered during postural shifts about a horizontal axis. Neither TCG nor IC showed the expected large decreases of SV from supine posture to head-up tilt. With baseline TCG and IC measurements in 60° head-up tilt, MAST suit application increased CO measured with TCG but not with IC. Neither TCG nor IC revealed alteration of CO with nasal CPAP up to 10 cm H2O despite a rise in functional residual capacity (FRC) level of 870 ml. This investigation indicates that TCG has promise as a near continuous, noninvasive monitor of SV and CO in normal subjects if postural axis is fixed and does not require highly trained personnel or labor-intensiveness for its operation.
Agrobacterium tumefaciens Transformation of Monocotyledons

Agrobacterium tumefaciens (Smith and Townsend, 1907) has been an extremely useful vector to transfer foreign genes into dicotyledonous plants. Monocotyledonous plants, particularly the cereals, have been considered outside the host range for A. tumefaciens, which has necessitated the development of other transformation systems such as naked DNA delivery to protoplasts and, most recently, microprojectile bombardment delivery of DNA to cells and tissues. Both systems have worked, but there are still many difficulties encountered in routine transformation of any monocotyledon. Recently, there has been renewed interest in using the A. tumefaciens system to transform economically important grasses and other monocotyledones. This paper examines the litterature and steps involved in transformation of monocotyledons by A. tumefaciens. The may recent advances in understanding the biology of the infection process (meristematic target cell, vir gene inducing compounds, and wide host range strains of A. tumefaciens), and availability of more monocotyledon gene promoters and improved selectable markers greatly improve the opportunities of developing monocotyledon transformation systems with A. tumefaciens
Does student learning style affect performance on different formats of biomechanics examinations

Students' learning style preferences have been widely adapted into teaching and learning environments. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between self-reported and assessed learning style preferences (visual, auditory, reading/writing, kinesthetic: VARK) on performance in different types of multiple-choice examinations (T1: text only format and T2: visual format) given in an introductory biomechanics class. Students who enrolled in three biomechanics classes at a state university were recruited to participate in the study. Ninety students (47 males and 43 females) completed a learning style survey and two types of examinations. Results showed that approximately half of the students were assessed and self-reported as kinesthetic for their preferred learning style. There was no significant difference in test performance between students who preferred visual and reading/writing learning styles (self-reported and assessed). These students demonstrated similar learning and comprehension of biomechanical concepts regardless of whether the test material was presented in their preferred sensory mode or not. Interestingly, female students' perceptions of their learning style preference may have a positive effect on the test results when the test is presented in their preferred format.
Projections onto order simplexes

Isotonic regression techniques are reinterpreted and extended to include upper and lower bounds on the ordered sequences in question. This amounts to solving the shortest distance problem for the order simplex $$S^n = \{ t \in R^n :0 \leqslant t_1 \leqslant t_2 \leqslant \cdots \leqslant t_n \leqslant 1\} $$ inR n . AnO(n) algorithm is presented for this problem, verified via the Kuhn-Tucker conditions, and explained geometrically in terms of the Lagrange multipliers. In this context, isotonic regression techniques are interpreted in terms of orthogonal projections onto faces of the order simplexS n . These projections provide a succinct characterization of the descent directions required for the design of methods for minimizing differentiable functions onS n . The latter problem arises in parameterized curve fitting.
Inflation targets and inflation targeting

Abstract This paper examines the Federal Reserve System’s dual policy mandate pertaining to the promotion of price stability and high employment. It reviews the relative merits of single and dual mandates and assesses the viability of explicit inflation targets. An inflation-targeting regime is described and the experiences of several countries are reviewed. These considerations lead to proposed adoption of an explicit inflation target within the context of the Fed’s current dual mandate. This policy reform would, among other things, increase policy transparency and provide a firm anchor for inflation expectations.
Human Timeless and Tipin stabilize replication forks and facilitate sister-chromatid cohesion

The Timeless-Tipin protein complex has been reported to be important for replication checkpoint and normal DNA replication processes. However, the precise mechanisms by which Timeless-Tipin preserves genomic integrity are largely unclear. Here, we describe the roles of Timeless-Tipin in replication fork stabilization and sister chromatid cohesion. We show in human cells that Timeless is recruited to replication origin regions and dissociate from them as replication proceeds. Cdc45, which is known to be required for replication fork progression, shows similar patterns of origin association to those of Timeless. Depletion of Timeless-Tipin causes chromosome fragmentation and defects in damage repair in response to fork collapse, suggesting that it is required for replication fork maintenance under stress. We also demonstrate that depletion of Timeless-Tipin impairs sister chromatid cohesion and causes a defect in mitotic progression. Consistently, Timeless-Tipin co-purifies with cohesin subunits and is required for their stable association with chromatin during S phase. Timeless associates with the cohesion-promoting DNA helicase ChlR1, which, when overexpressed, partially alleviates the cohesion defect of cells depleted of Timeless-Tipin. These results suggest that Timeless-Tipin functions as a replication fork stabilizer that couples DNA replication with sister chromatid cohesion established at replication forks.
First Report of Sawadaea tulasnei Powdery Mildew of Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) in Wisconsin.

Leaves affected by powdery mildew were collected from a Norway maple tree in early October 2007 in Beaver Dam, WI (Dodge County). Diseased leaves were present throughout the crown of this tree, with white mycelium in irregular and often vein-associated spots and often covering as much as 50% of the upper surfaces of leaves. Examination of the lower surfaces revealed necrosis of the areas underlying mycelium. Blades of samaras also bore white mycelium. Chasmothecia were present singly or in groups on the mycelium. Morphology of chasmothecia, including simple and bifid appendages with uncinate to circinate apices, was sufficient to identify the pathogen to the genus Sawadaea (1). Data for nuclear rDNA ITS sequence (546 bp) obtained for a specimen (GenBank Accession No. EU247884) exactly matched sequences for Sawadea tulasnei (GenBank Accession Nos. AB 193363, 478 bp; AB193385, 490 bp; AB193390 and AB193391, 546 bp). This data was 96% similar (528 of 552 nucleotides) to that of another European powdery milde...
Quantification of in vitro endothelial cell adhesion to vascular graft material

This study tests the hypothesis that denucleating vascular graft material and binding cell adhesion molecules increases endothelial attachment. Removal of gas nuclei (denucleation) increases the availabel surface area of biomaterials for modification and/or cell adhesion, while adhesion molecules provide specific attachment sites. Microvascular endothelial cells (MVEC) were isolated from fat, fluorescently labeled, and allowed to settle onto expaned polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) vascular patches. Patch treatments included fibronectin alone (F), gas denucleation followed by fibronectin (D/F), denucleation followed by the surfactant tridodecylmethlammonium chloride (TDMAC) D/T), denucleation followed by TDMAC followed by fibronectin (D/T/F), or denucleation follwed by TDMAc followed by a synthetic polymer with numerous arginine-glycine-aspertic acid sequences (D/T/R). After 1 h of incubation, the 45 mm2 patch area covered with microvascular endothelial cells was assessed using comuter-aided fluorescence microscopy. Initial graft coverage with D/T (26.2 ± 2.4mm2) and D/T/F (25.9 ± 2.1 mm2) was better than with f (16.8 ± 2.5 mm2) (P < .05). Patches were then exposed to a detachment stress and coverage was again measured. Following stress, coverage was greater with D/T (20.7 ± 3.4 mm2) and D/T/F (20.7 ± 2.0 mm2) than with D/T/R (8.4 ± 1.8 mm2) or F (3.6 ± 0.9 mm2 (P < .001). Percent retention of cells following stress was better with D/T and D/T/F than with D/T/R, D/F, or F (P < .0001). Scanning electron micrographs were consistent with the qualitative findings. The results indicate that IDMAC alone or with fibronectin increases adhesion of human microvascular endothelial cells to denucleated ePTFE. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.