cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Corneal high-order aberrations and backscatter in Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy

Purpose Suboptimal visual acuity after endothelial keratoplasty has been attributed to increased anterior corneal high-order aberrations (HOAs). In this study, we determined anterior and posterior corneal HOAs over a range of severity of Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). Design Cross-sectional study. Participants A total of 108 eyes (62 subjects) with a range of severity of FECD and 71 normal eyes (38 subjects). Methods All corneas were examined by using slit-lamp biomicroscopy to determine the severity of FECD versus normality. Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy corneas were categorized as mild, moderate, or advanced according to the area and confluence of guttae and the presence of clinically visible edema. Normal corneas were devoid of any guttae. Wavefront errors from the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces were derived from Scheimpflug images and expressed as Zernike polynomials through the sixth order over a 6-mm diameter optical zone. Backscatter from the anterior 120 μm and posterior 60 μm of the cornea also was measured from Scheimpflug images and was standardized to a fixed scatter source. Variables were compared between FECD and control eyes by using generalized estimating equation models to adjust for age and correlation between fellow eyes. Main Outcome Measures High-order aberrations, expressed as root mean square of wavefront errors, and backscatter of the anterior and posterior cornea. Results Total anterior corneal HOAs were increased in moderate (0.61±0.27 μm, mean ± standard deviation; P = 0.01) and advanced (0.66±0.28 μm; P = 0.01) FECD compared with controls (0.47±0.16 μm). Total posterior corneal HOAs were increased in mild (0.22±0.09 μm; P = 0.017), moderate (0.22±0.08 μm; P P P ≤ 0.02, anterior; P ≤ 0.001, posterior). Conclusions Anterior and posterior corneal HOAs and backscatter are higher than normal even in early stages of FECD. The early onset of HOAs in FECD might contribute to the persistence of HOAs and incomplete visual rehabilitation after endothelial keratoplasty.
Modern technology: lowering the radiation dose for lung cancer screening

Summary This review will present newer currently available techniques for radiation risk reduction and our model of radiation risk estimation in comparison with available older models, based on calculations of radiation doses on population of atomic bomb survivors.
Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ protein expression is asymmetrically distributed in primary lung tumor and metastatic to lung osteosarcoma samples and does not correlate with gene methylation.

Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor that plays important roles in cellular proliferation and differentiation. It has been implicated as a tumor suppressor in many solid tumors including human prostate, breast, colon, and lung cancer. The objective of this study was to determine the tissue distribution of PPAR-γ in normal canine lung, canine lung cancer, and metastatic to lung cancer, as well as determine the role, if any, of DNA methylation in epigenetic control of gene expression. The protein was studied using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and DNA methylation was studied using combined bisulfite restriction analysis (COBRA), and methylation-specific PCR (MSP). PPAR-γ is expressed in all large conducting airways, particularly in goblet cells and bronchial glands, in the canine lung. The protein is also expressed in interstitial macrophages. PPAR-γ is expressed in 33 % of canine non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases and 66 % of metastatic osteosarcoma (OSA) cases. There is a significant loss of 5′ PPAR-γ methylation from normal lung to primary lung cancer and metastatic OSA (p = 0.0002), however altered PPAR-γ promoter methylation at the interrogated locus does not appear to be associated with changes in protein expression. PPAR-γ protein is expressed in normal canine lung tissue, canine primary lung cancer, and metastatic OSA. Confirmation of PPAR-γ protein expression in tumor-bearing dogs supports the investigation of PPAR-γ agonists in this subset of veterinary patients. These results are the first to describe epigenetic marks and protein localization of PPAR-γ among different lung pathologies in the dog.
Deconstruction and Religion

This article provides an introduction to “deconstruction and religion” by focusing on the late writings of Jacques Derrida, in which religious and ethical themes become particularly prominent. The author explains why Derrida’s writings do not constitute a “theory” or “method” for the study of religion, but rather an attempt to show how “religion” itself is impossible. Derrida’s treatment of “religion” is explicated through an analysis of the key concepts of “faith” and “holiness,” and interpreted as fundamentally an engagement with the question of ethics. The article culminates in an examination of Derrida’s notion of “messianicity,” a key concept in his late texts. Throughout the course of this analysis, attention is paid not only to Derrida’s reading of a number of important philosophical figures (Kant, Levinas, and Austin), but also to the way in which his writings have been appropriated in the attempt to think God and religion after or beyond the Kantian critique of metaphysics and the Heideggerian destruction of onto-theology.
Influence of the ph of cardioplegic solutions on cellular energy metabolism and hydrogen ion flux during neonatal hypothermic circulatory arrest and reperfusion: A dynamic 31p nuclear magnetic resonance study in a pig model

Abstract Objectives: The pH of cardioplegic solutions is postulated to affect myocardial protection during neonatal hypothermic circulatory arrest. Neither optimization of cardioplegic pH nor its influence on intracellular pH during hypothermic circulatory arrest has been previously studied in vivo. Thus we examined the effects of the pH of cardioplegic solutions on postischemic cardiac function in vivo, including two possible operative mechanisms: (1) reduction in adenosine triphosphate use and depletion of high-energy phosphate stores or (2) reduction of H + flux during reperfusion, or both. Methods: Dynamic 31 P spectroscopy was used to measure rates of adenosine triphosphate use, high-energy phosphate depletion, cytosolic acidification during hypothermic circulatory arrest, and phosphocreatine repletion and realkalinization during reperfusion. Neonatal pigs in three groups (n = 8 each)—group A, acidic cardioplegia (pH = 6.8); group B, basic cardioplegia (pH = 7.8); and group N, no cardioplegia—underwent hypothermia at 20° C with 60 minutes of hypothermic cardioplegia followed by reperfusion. Results: Recoveries of peak elastance, stroke work, and diastolic stiffness were superior in group B. Indices of ischemic adenosine triphosphate use, initial phosphocreatine depletion rate, and τ, the exponential decay half-time, were not different among groups. Peak [H + ] in group A (end-ischemia) was significantly elevated over that of group B. The realkalinization rate was reduced in group B compared with that in groups A (p = 0.015) and N (p = 0.035), with no difference between groups A and N (p = 0.3). Cytosolic realkalinization rate was markedly reduced and the half-time of [H + ] decay was increased during reperfusion in group B. Conclusions: Superior postischemic cardiac function in group B is not related to alterations in ischemic adenosine triphosphate use or high-energy store depletion, but may be due to slowing in H + efflux during reperfusion, which should reduce Ca ++ and Na + influx. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1997;114:601-8)
Properties of asialo and aglycoprothrombin.

Abstract Native bovine prothrombin was shown to have a circulatory half-life of 90 minutes when injected into the circulatory system of rats. Removal of sialic acid resulted in a circulatory half-life of only 9 minutes and further enzymatic degradation of the carbohydrate restored the circulatory half-life to more nearly that of intact prothrombin. These observations broaden the generality of this phenomenon displayed by some other glycoproteins and therefore the possibility that sialic acid may function in determining the circulatory life of glycoproteins.
Undergraduate theory of computation: an approach using simulation tools

Theory of computation courses have traditionally been taught at the advanced-undergraduate/graduate level, primarily due to the level of mathematical rigor associated with the topics involved. The topics covered include automata theory, formal languages, computability, uncomputability, and computational complexity. If the essentials of these topics are introduced earlier in the undergraduate computer science curriculum, students gain deeper insights and better comprehend the underlying computational issues associated with the material covered in subsequent computer science courses. Such a course is required of all computer science majors at the University of North Florida. Experience has demonstrated that a minimum background for the course includes Freshman-Sophomore mathematics (presently calculus) and a typical introduction to computer science. Thus the course is best positioned within the curriculum at the Junior level. Recognizing that Junior level students are rarely mathematically sophisticated, the treatment is not as rigorous as that of a more advanced course on the theory of computation. To reinforce the “theory” covered in class, an integral portion of the course is devoted to “hands-on” exercises using simulation tools designed for construction of a variety of automata. The exercises generally require the construction of automata of various forms, with observation of their step by step operation. Further exercises illustrate the connections between various automata and areas such as hardware design and compiler construction. The paper describes the course and the nature of the simulation tools used in the “hands-on” component of the course.
Phonon structure in the tunneling characteristics of tin-lead sandwiches

Abstract A series of tunneling experiments have been performed on bilayers of tin and lead. Tunneling into the tin side of the proximity effect sandwhich the phonon structure of tin is readily observed in d2V/dI2 vs V at 4.2 K where tin is a normal metal. The structure is very similar to that observed in tin alone below its transition temperature. In addition there appears some structure from the lead phonons which is strongly dependent on the thickness of the tin film.
Interaction Between BTBR and C57BL/6J Genomes Produces an Insulin Resistance Syndrome in (BTBR × C57BL/6J) F1 Mice

Abstract Insulin resistance is a common syndrome that often precedes the development of noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Both diet and genetic factors are associated with insulin resistance. BTBR and C57BL/6J (B6) mice have normal insulin responsiveness and normal fasting plasma insulin levels. However, a cross between these two strains yielded male offspring with severe insulin resistance. Surprisingly, on a basal diet (6.5% fat), the insulin resistance was not associated with fasting hyperinsulinemia. However, a 15% fat diet produced significant hyperinsulinemia in the male mice (twofold at 10 weeks; P<.05). At 10 weeks of age, visceral fat contributed approximately 4.3% of the total body weight in the males versus 1.8% in females. In the males, levels of plasma triacylglycerol and total cholesterol increased 40% and 30%, respectively, compared to females. Plasma free fatty acid concentrations were unchanged. Oral glucose tolerance tests revealed significant levels of hyperglycemia and hy...
Thermometry via Light Shifts in Optical Lattices

For atoms or molecules in optical lattices, conventional thermometry methods are often unsuitable due to low particle numbers or a lack of cycling transitions. However, a differential spectroscopic light shift can map temperature onto the line shape with a low sensitivity to trap anharmonicity. We study narrow molecular transitions to demonstrate precise frequency-based lattice thermometry, as well as carrier cooling. This approach should be applicable down to nanokelvin temperatures. We also discuss how the thermal light shift can affect the accuracy of optical lattice clocks.
Theory of spin-exchange optical pumping of 3 He and 129 Xe

We present a comprehensive theory of nuclear spin polarization of ${}^{3}\mathrm{He}$ and ${}^{129}\mathrm{Xe}$ gases by spin-exchange collisions with optically pumped alkali-metal vapors. The most important physical processes considered are (1) spin-conserving spin-exchange collisions between like or unlike alkali-metal atoms; (2) spin-destroying collisions of the alkali-metal atoms with each other and with buffer-gas atoms; (3) electron-nuclear spin-exchange collisions between alkali-metal atoms and ${}^{3}\mathrm{He}$ or ${}^{129}\mathrm{Xe}$ atoms; (4) spin interactions in van der Waals molecules consisting of a Xe atom bound to an alkali-metal atom; (5) optical pumping by laser photons; (6) spatial diffusion. The static magnetic field is assumed to be small enough that the nuclear spin of the alkali-metal atom is well coupled to the electron spin and the total spin is very nearly a good quantum number. Conditions appropriate for the production of large quantities of spin-polarized ${}^{3}\mathrm{He}$ or ${}^{129}\mathrm{Xe}$ gas are assumed, namely, atmospheres of gas pressure and nearly complete quenching of the optically excited alkali-metal atoms by collisions with ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$ or ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ gas. Some of the more important results of this work are as follows: (1) Most of the pumping and relaxation processes are sudden with respect to the nuclear polarization. Consequently, the steady-state population distribution of alkali-metal atoms is well described by a spin temperature, whether the rate of spin-exchange collisions between alkali-metal atoms is large or small compared to the optical pumping rate or the collisional spin-relaxation rates. (2) The population distributions that characterize the response to sudden changes in the intensity of the pumping light are not described by a spin temperature, except in the limit of very rapid spin exchange. (3) Expressions given for the radio-frequency (rf) resonance linewidths and areas can be used to make reliable estimates of the local spin polarization of the alkali-metal atoms. (4) Diffusion effects for these high-pressure conditions are mainly limited to thin layers at the cell surface and at internal resonant surfaces generated by radio-frequency magnetic fields when the static magnetic field has substantial spatial inhomogeneities. The highly localized effects of diffusion at these surfaces are described with closed-form analytic functions instead of the spatial eigenmode expansions that are appropriate for lower-pressure cells.
In vitro tolerance to anoxia and ischemia in isolated hearts from hypoxia sensitive and hypoxia tolerant turtles.

Although freshwater turtles as a group are highly anoxia tolerant, dramatic interspecific differences in the degree of anoxia tolerance have been demonstrated in vivo. Painted turtles (Chrysemys picta bellii) appear to be the most hypoxia-tolerant species thus far studied, while softshelled turtles (Trionyx spinifer) are the most hypoxia-sensitive. We have assumed that this dichotomy persists in vitro but have not, until now, directly tested this assumption. We, therefore, directly compared the responses of isolated, perfused, working hearts from these two species to either 240 min of anoxia, 90 min of global ischemia, or 240 min of global ischemia followed by reoxygenation/reperfusion. Isolated hearts were perfused at 20°C and monitored continuously for phosphocreatine (PCr), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), inorganic phosphate (P1), and intracellular pH (pH1) by 31P-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy as well as for ventricular developed pressure and heart rate. Contrary to our expectations, we observed few significant differences in any of these parameters between painted and softshelled turtle hearts. Hearts from both species tolerated 240 min of anoxia equally well and both restored PCr, pH1, and P1 contents to control levels during reoxygenation. We did observe some significant interspecific differences in the 90 min (pH1 and P1) and 240 min (PCr) ischemia protocols although these seemed to suggest that Trionyx hearts might be more tolerant to these stresses than Chrysemys hearts. We conclude that: (a) the observed in vivo differences in anoxia tolerance between painted and softshelled turtles must either be due to differences in organ metabolism in organs other than the heart (e.g., brain) or to some integrative physiologic differences between the species; and (b) isolated hearts from a species known to be relatively anoxia sensitive in vivo can exhibit an apparent high degree of anoxia and ischemia tolerance in vitro.
Measurement of Laminar Flow Development in a Square Duct Using a Laser-Doppler Flowmeter

A system for precision measurement of fluid velocity is developed and applied to determine the laminar flow distribution in a square duct. The experimental technique consists of measuring the Doppler shift of laser radiation scattered by particles moving with the fluid. From this frequency shift, the fluid velocity is inferred. Measurements in the entrance region and fully developed flow region of a square duct indicate that the velocity profile development takes place in a somewhat longer section of the duct than had been predicted. Measurements of the fully developed flow indicate that the optical technique used is capable of measuring velocity within an accuracy of at least 0.1 percent.
Vinblastine, Bleomycin, and cis-Platin as Salvage Therapy for MOPP Treated Patients with Hodgkin's Lymphoma

AbstractSeven patients with active Hodgkin's lymphoma who had relapsed 4--39 months following six or more cycles of MOPP were treated with a combination of vinblastine-bleomycin-cis-platin (VBP). Six patients attained a partial response of 1--8 months duration. There were no complete responses. The projected maximum long-term disease-free survivorship with this salvage program is less than 16%. All observed patients had Grade II---III nausea and vomiting, and neutrophil nadir counts less than 700/mm3. Three patients had platelet counts ≤ 85,000/mm3. This program does not have significant potential as a salvage therapy for patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma relapsing after MOPP chemotherapy
Omeprazole, a long-lasting inhibitor of gastric secretion.

Omeprazole is a potent inhibitor of gastric acid secretion (GAS). It has a unique mechanism of action within the parietal cell where it inhibits (H+-K+) ATPase in secretory membranes. The inhibitory effect of omeprazole was measured over a 24-hr period in the dog. Seventy-five minutes after start of pentagastrin-stimulated GAS, placebo or omeprazole (0.5-3.0 μg/kg) iv was given to six dogs and GAS was collected for another 2 hr. Twenty-four hours later, GAS was again measured. Omeprazole produced a prompt and dose-dependent reduction of GAS, and significant suppression (44%) was still present at 24 hr.
Persistent left superior vena cava: Case reports and clinical implications

We report four cases of persistent left superior vena cava (LSVC) incidentally recognized during device implantation. Persistent LSVC is the commonest venous anomaly of the thorax and drains into the right atrium via the coronary sinus. Persistent LSVC demonstrates several congenital variations including variable communication with right-sided superior vena cava (SVC), absence of right-sided SVC, drainage into the left atrium creating a right to left shunt, and association with other congenital anomalies of the heart and great vessels. Abnormal persistent fetal dispersion of specialized pacemaker and conduction tissue, which occurs in some individuals with persistent LSVC, may provide an arrhythmogenic substrate. In this article we discuss embryology, diagnostic approaches, clinical features, technical difficulties in accessing the right ventricle, and a review of literature related to persistent LSVC.
A novel heparin/protamine-based pro-drug type delivery system for protease drugs

Previously we proposed a heparin/protamine-based system for delivery of protease drugs such as tissue-specific plasminogen activator (tPA). To demonstrate the feasibility of this approach as well as its pro-drug and triggered release features, positively charged peptides [(Arg)(7)Cys] were successfully linked to tissue-specific plasminogen activator (tPA) using the crosslinking agent N-succinimidyl-3-(2-pyridyldithio)- propionate. This cation-modified tPA showed much stronger heparin affinity than the parent tPA. The complex formed by mtPA and heparin was stable in human plasma, and the activity of mtPA in such a complex was inhibited by the appended heparin. Similarly, the activity of mtPA could also be inhibited by a heparin-antifibrin IgG conjugate in which heparin was linked, via endpoint attachment, to the sugar moieties in the F(c) region of anti-fibrin IgG. Aside from this pro-drug feature exhibited by the binding of the macromolecule heparin to mtPA, results from chromogenic and in vitro clot lysis assay demonstrated that the heparin-induced inhibition of the mtPA activity could be easily reversed by the addition of an adequate amount of protamine. These findings suggest the applicability of the heparin/protamine delivery system to abort the potential bleeding risks associated with clinical use of tPA. In addition to the chemical conjugation method, modified tPA could also be produced by the recombinant DNA method. The expressed modified tPA (EmtPA) thus prepared retained the full catalytic activity of the parent tPA, and this activity could also be inhibited by heparin, and the heparin-induced inhibition could be reversed following the addition of protamine.
Effects of grain size on coercivity of combined-reaction-processed FePd intermetallics

Abstract The evolution of the microstructure and the coercivity of cold-deformed ferromagnetic Fe–Pd intermetallics with equiatomic composition during isothermal annealing at 500 and 600 °C has been studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy and vibrating sample magnetometry. The deformation-processed alloys exhibit morphologically essentially equiaxed microstructures and up to about fivefold increased coercivity compared with conventionally processed bulk L10-ordered FePd. An inverse linear relationship between the coercivity and the average grain size has been established, which for grain sizes in the range of about 0.4–1.0 μm has been attributed to a nucleation-type coercivity mechanism.
Race-Ethnic Differences in the Non-marital Fertility Rates in 2006-2010.

Research in the 1980s pointed to the lower marriage rates of blacks as an important factor contributing to race differences in non-marital fertility. Our analyses update and extend this prior work to investigate whether cohabitation has become an important contributor to this variation. We use data from the 2006–2010 National Survey of Family Growth to identify the relative contribution of population composition (i.e., percent sexually active single and percent cohabiting) versus rates (pregnancy rates, post-conception marriage rates) to race-ethnic variation in non-marital fertility rates (N = 7,428). We find that the pregnancy rate among single (not cohabiting) women is the biggest contributor to race-ethnic variation in the non-marital fertility rate and that contraceptive use patterns among racial minorities explain the majority of the race-ethnic differences in pregnancy rates.
Friction modeling, identification, and compensation based on friction hysteresis and Dahl resonance

Abstract This paper studies effects of friction on control systems and utilizes the observed frictional behavior to develop a parameter identification method for a friction model using frequency domain measurements. Friction exists in a wide range of drive systems due to physical contacts in bearing elements, transmissions, or motion guides. Friction in a control system can deteriorate performance by causing limit cycles or stick–slip, as well as larger tracking errors. Friction compensation can help to reduce following errors, but requires physical understanding and a reliable model of friction in both the gross- and the pre-sliding regimes. In this paper, we adopt the Generalized Maxwell-Slip (GMS) model and develop a frequency-domain method to identify the model parameters based on the frictional resonances, which occur due to the elastic behavior of friction at small amplitudes. With the experimentally identified parameters, the friction model is utilized to compensate the friction effects in a motion control system. The resulting system performance of a compensated and uncompensated control system is then compared in both the frequency and time domains to demonstrate the Dahl resonance identification method for a GMS model.
Efficient computation of parameter confidence intervals

An important step in system identification of aircraft is the estimation of stability and control derivatives from flight data along with an assessment of parameter accuracy. When the maximum likelihood estimation technique is used, parameter accuracy is commonly assessed by the Cramer-Rao lower bound. It is known, however, that in some cases the lower bound can be substantially different from the parameter variance. Under these circumstances the Cramer-Rao bounds may be misleading as an accuracy measure. This paper discusses the confidence interval estimation problem based on likelihood ratios, which offers a more general estimate of the error bounds. Four approaches are considered for computing confidence intervals of maximum likelihood parameter estimates. Each approach is applied to real flight data and compared.
Reducing maternal mortality in India: policy, equity, and quality issues.

This article focuses on the policy equity and quality issues associated with reducing maternal mortality in India. It discusses maternal care in India - obstetric care postnatal care three delays in seeking maternal care and service delivery. It also touches on the health expenditure by the government and describes a case study of maternal care in Tamil Nadu state.
Effects of Phenytoin Withdrawal on Matching to Sample and Workshop Performance of Mentally Retarded Persons

The present study was designed to examine the effects of gradual phenytoin withdrawal on the matching to sample performance of three mentally retarded persons. The percentage of correct responses per session served as the dependent variable, and the sample and comparison stimuli were red, green, and
Necrotising pneumonitis in children.

We retrospectively analysed the clinical features and outcome of children under 17 years of age with necrotising pneumonitis (NP). The radiographs and CT scans of the chest of children under 17 years of age between July 1995 and March 1999 who had complicating community-acquired pneumonia were reviewed. CT scans were obtained for persistent fever, respiratory distress and sepsis despite empiric antibiotic therapy and closed tube drainage. A total of 21 children had the radiographic features of NP of whom 11 (52%) patients were successfully managed using antibiotic therapy with or without closed tube drainage. Ten patients required thoracoscopic decortications and/or lysis of pleural adhesions or debridement of empyema due to refractory pleural sepsis, failure of pulmonary re-expansion and persistent air-leaks. The most common pathogens identified were Streptococcus pneumoniae (n=3),Staphylococcus aureus (n=2), and Haemophilus influenzae type b (n=2). The days of hospital stay, duration of fever and days of C-reactive protein return to normal were significantly less for the medically versus the surgically treated children (P < 0.05).
Contributions to the problem of Zarankiewicz

Abstract Let G2(n) denote a bipartite graph with n vertices in each color class, and let z(n,t) be the bipartite Turan number, representing the maximum possible number of edges in G2(n) if it is not to contain a copy of the complete bipartite subgraph K(t,t). It is then clear that ζ(n,t)=n2−z(n,t) denotes the smallest possible number of zeros in an n×n zero–one matrix that does not contain a t×t submatrix consisting of all ones. We investigate the behaviour of z(n,t) when n goes to infinity (and perhaps t→∞ as well). The case t= o (n 1/3 );t⪢ log n has been considered by Godbole et al. [Electron. J. Combin. 4 (1997) 14pp], and we focus here on the overlapping case 2⩽t⪡n1/5. Fill an n×n matrix randomly with z ones and n2−z=ζ zeros. Then, we prove that if t→∞, the asymptotic probability that there are no t×t submatrices with all ones is one or zero, according as z=n 2−2/t t e 2/t {1+ o (1)} or z=n 2−2/t t e 2/t {1+ o ∗ (1)}, where the o(1) and o ∗ (1) functions may be taken to be ( log t−a n )/t 2 and ( log t+a n )/t 2 respectively, for any an that tends to infinity. If t is finite, a less sharp result is shown to be valid. The proof employs the Janson exponential inequalities. Finally, the Stein–Chen method is employed to derive a Poisson approximation for the probability distribution of the number of copies of K(t,t) in the random bipartite graph; an extreme value limit for the probability that there are no t×t submatrices with all ones, when the value of z is at the threshold level, is derived as a corollary.
The Modern Language Teacher in a Troubled World

Author's Summary— The world-crisis in its effect upon modern language teaching. Linguistic, literary, and cultural values, which remain in spite of war and political changes. What should be the attitude of the modern language teacher in the midst of difficult days? How shall we further revivify our teaching?)
Biosynthesis of prostanoids, tissue fatty acid composition and thrombotic parameters in rats fed diets enriched with docosahexaenoic (22:6n3) or eicosapentaenoic (20:5n3) acids

Abstract The objective of this experiment was to elucidate the effect(s) of eicosapentaenoic (20:5n3) vs docosahexaenoic (22:6n3) acid on prostaglandin biosynthesis and related thrombotic parameters. Diets were formulated to contain oils absent in (control) or enriched with either 20:5n3 (EPA) or 22:6n3 (DHA). The diets were fed to rats for three weeks and the following evaluated: 1) bleeding time; 2) blood viscosity; 3) platelet aggregation; 4) tissue fatty acids; 5) serum thromboxane (TXB2), aortic prostacylin (6-keto) and 6) arachidonic acid conversion to eicosanoids by lung microsomes. There were no significant differences between treatments for bleeding time, red blood cell viscosity or platelet aggregation. In EPA fed rats 20:5n3 increased significantly in platelet and aorta phospholipids. In platelets and aorta 20:4n6 was slightly decreased in EPA and DHA animals. Platelet 22:6n3 levels were not altered by treatment, but 22:6n3 increased in the aorta of EPA and DHA fed rats. Similar changes were noted in lung and liver fatty acid composition. Serum TXB2levels were significantly decreased only in the EPA vs control group. No differences were noted for aortic 6-keto levels or in the amount of hydroxy fatty acids, PGE, TXB2or PGF2 produced by lung microsomes. While fish oils have been shown to alter hematologic parameters in humans this study suggests that the rat is not similarly affected. Furthermore, it is evident that in the rat, 20:5n3 and not 22:6n3 is responsible for the alterations in platelet prostaglandin biosynthesis; however, these observations may not be directly applicable to other species.
Electrophysiological indices of brain activity to "the" in discourse.

Abstract In a first experiment, we recorded event-related-potentials (ERPs) to “the” followed by meaningful words (Story) versus “the” followed by nonsense syllables (Nonse). Left and right lateral anterior positivities (LAPs) were seen from the onset of “the” up to 200 ms in both conditions. Later than 200 ms following the onset of “the,” the left and right LAPs continued for “the” in the Story, but were replaced by a negativity in the Nonse Condition. In a second experiment, ERPs were recorded to “the” in the Story and Nonse contexts mixed together under two different task instructions (Attend to the auditory stimuli versus ignore the auditory stimuli). The same pattern of findings as Experiment 1 were observed for the Story and Nonse contexts when the participants attended to the auditory stimuli. Ignoring the auditory stimuli led to an attenuation of the right LAP, supporting the hypothesis that it is an index of discourse processing.
Amelioration of the toxicity of H+ to larval stoneflies by metals found in coal mine effluent

Stonefly nymphs (Acroneuria carolinensis) were used as a bioindicator of the toxicity of coal mine drainage, and of the interaction between low pH and dissolved metals at severe pollutant levels. Laboratory experiments were done to determine the mean life expectancy of stoneflies subjected to simulated mine drainage with various levels of metals and pH. Both iron and aluminum had significant protective effects against low pH toxicity (at levels found in mine drainage streams of pH 2.8–3.3). The ameliorative effect of Al and Fe was additive. At pH 2.8, the protective effect of aluminum increased with concentration, approaching a maximum near 12 mM. Increased water hardness due to Ca and Mg had a lesser protective effect. A laboratory simulation of a field site at pH 2.8 (modelling field levels of Na, K, Mg, Ca, Al, and Fe) was more toxic than the field site it was patterned after, indicating that there is an ameliorating factor that is not among the ions considered. The other metals tested (Mn, Zn, Cu, and Cd at concentrations prevalent in central Pennsylvania mine effluent) did not reduce the toxicity of H+ ions at pH 3.3. Stonefly nymphs placed in an acid mine drainage stream with a pH of 4.0, lost approximately 50% of their body sodium. However, when these field water chemistry conditions were mimicked in the laboratory there was no significant body Na loss. This indicates that some factor(s) other than the cations considered is affecting toxicity, and that field conditions were more toxic than the laboratory simulation at pH 4.0. Larval stoneflies are more tolerant of acidic mine effluent than are trout. Hence, they can be a useful bioindicator of the toxicity of severe acid and metal mixtures, especially when enough detail to understand the mechanisms is sought.
Equivalent sample sizes in time series regressions

This article studies confidence intervals for regression parameters in time series settings. An equivalent sample size method is proposed that retains the simple interval structure inherent with white noise model errors, but modifies the sample size to account for the serial autocorrelations present in the errors. This makes the interval perform akin to weighted least squares intervals. The accuracy of the approach is demonstrated in three common regression problems. A noteworthy by-product of the work identifies explicit variances of several classical regression statistics in time series settings.
The Impact Of Collectivism And In-Group/Out-Group Membership On The Evaluation Generosity Of Team Members

In a scenario-based study using Mexican and U.S. samples, when a team member was perceived to be an in-group (rather than an out-group) member, collectivists evaluated that member significantly mor...
Transgenic zebrafish as sentinels for aquatic pollution.

Abstract: Using the golden mutant zebrafish having a decrease in interfering pigmentation, we are developing transgenic lines in which DNA motifs that respond to selected environmental pollutants are capable of activating a reporter gene that can be easily assayed. We have begun with three response elements that recognize three important classes of foreign chemicals. Aromatic hydrocarbon response elements (AHREs) respond to numerous polycyclic hydrocarbons and halogenated coplanar molecules such as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD; dioxin) and polychlorinated biphenyls. Electrophile response elements (EPREs) respond to quinones and numerous other potent electrophilic oxidants. Metal response elements (MREs) respond to heavy metal cations such as mercury, copper, nickel, cadmium, and zinc. Soon, we will include estrogen response elements (EREs) to detect the effects of environmental endocrine disruptors, and retinoic acid response elements (RARE, RXRE) to detect the effects of retinoids in the environment. Each of these substances is known to be bioconcentrated in fish to varying degrees; for example, 10−17 M TCDD in a body of water becomes concentrated to approximately 10−12 M TCDD in a fish, where it would act upon the AHRE motif and turn on the luciferase (LUC) reporter gene. The living fish as a sentinel will not only be assayed intact in the luminometer, but-upon several days or weeks of depuration-would be usable again. To date, we have established that zebrafish transcription factors are able to recognize both mammalian and trout AHRE, EPRE, and MRE sequences in a dose-dependent and chemical-class-specific manner, and that expression of both the LUC and jellyfish green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter genes is easily detected in zebrafish cell cultures and in the intact live zebrafish. Variations in sensitivity of this model system can be achieved by increasing the copy number of response elements and perhaps by altering the sequence of each core consensus response element and flanking regions. This transgenic technology should allow for a simple, exquisitely sensitive, and inexpensive assay for monitoring aquatic pollution. We have already initiated studies using sentinel zebrafish to monitor a public drinking water source.
Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy Treatment Protocol for Hypo-fractionated Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Localized Prostate Cancer

table rotations, collimator angle and photon beam energy have been investigated. Results: VMAT plans with ±45 degree collimator rotations required on average 38% less monitor units compared to plans with no collimator rotations and 20% less monitor units than plans with ±22.5 degree rotations. Plans with ±45 degree collimator rotations provided more homogeneous dose distribution with an average of 6% less maximal dose. VMAT plans with two arcs provided improved conformality and homogeneity with an average of 3% lower maximal dose compared to single arc plans. However, increasingthe number of arcsto threedid not provideany significantimprovement. Introductionof±5 and±10degree table rotations between arcs did not result in any significant dosimetric improvements. The selection of photon beam energy between 6MV and 10MV did not provide any notable dosimetric differences either. Conclusions: Thefinalselectionoftheprotocolincludes twocoplanar10MV RapidArcs with±45degreecollimatorrotations.This prospective clinical trial is designed to deliver 5 fractions of 8 Gy with the prescription dose covering the 95% of the planning target volume. The beam-on time for eachof the coplanar arcs is approximately 2 minutes.For the purpose ofintrafraction motionmanagement, two Rapid Arcs are further split to 4 half arcs with approximately one minute treatment time for each segment. The patient is stereoscopicallyimagedandrepositionedifnecessaryusingExacTracpriortothedeliveryofeacharc.Additionally,CBCTisobtained prior to eachfractionforthe purposesof confirmationofExacTracpositioningand volumetric evaluation of bladderand rectalfilling.
Homomorphisms of Finitary Incidence Algebras

For any field K and poset P, the incidence space I(P) and the finitary incidence algebra FI(P) were introduced in [5]. The K-vector space I(P) is an FI(P)-bimodule. We investigate K-linear maps from FI(P) to I(P) that preserve submodules. We also consider the idealization FI(P)(+)I(P) of I(P).
Stimulus Exposure Rate in Verbal Conditioning

This study investigated the effects of stimulus presentation rate in a Taffel-type verbal conditioning paradigm. College Ss were required to emit sentences utilizing a verb and one of six pronouns on each of 80 stimulus cards. Rate of stimulus presentation was varied in two ways: presentation of a card every 7 sec. (Fixed rate) and presentation immediately subsequent to each reponse (Variable rate). Presentation rate was factorially varied with presence or absence of response-contingent verbal reinforcement. Greater increments in reinforced response frequency occurred under Fixed than Variable procedures but conditioning effects were obtained independent of presentation rate.
Variation in working memory capacity, fluid intelligence, and episodic recall: A latent variable examination of differences in the dynamics of free recall

A latent variable analysis was conducted to examine the nature of individual differences in the dynamics of free recall and cognitive abilities. Participants performed multiple measures of free recall, working memory capacity (WMC), and fluid intelligence (gF). For each free recall task, recall accuracy, recall latency, and number of intrusion errors were determined, and latent factors were derived for each. It was found that recall accuracy was negatively related to both recall latency and number of intrusions, and recall latency and number of intrusions were positively related. Furthermore, latent WMC and gF factors were positively related to recall accuracy, but negatively related to recall latency and number of intrusions. Finally, a cluster analysis revealed that subgroups of participants with deficits in focusing the search had deficits in recovering degraded representations or deficits in monitoring the products of retrieval. The results are consistent with the idea that variation in the dynamics of free recall, WMC, and gF are primarily due to differences in search set size, but differences in recovery and monitoring are also important.
Age variation in corticosteroid binding by serum proteins of growing chickens.

Abstract Changes occurred in the binding capacity of corticosterone by serum proteins during the maturation of White Rock female chickens. DEAE-cellulose chromatography, multiple equilibrium dialysis, and gel filtration revealed that binding by transcortin reaches a maximum between 8 and 12 wk of age and then declines markedly until the birds start to lay. Apparently another protein (or proteins) besides CBG and albumin also binds corticosterone.
Regional roughness of the landes forest and surface shear stress under neutral conditions

Note: 48: 69-81 Reference EFLUM-ARTICLE-1989-001doi:10.1007/BF00121783 Record created on 2005-09-08, modified on 2017-02-23
The economics of current and future biofuels

This work presents detailed comparative analysis on the production economics of both current and future biofuels, including ethanol, biodiesel, and butanol. Our objectives include demonstrating the impact of key parameters on the overall process economics (e.g., plant capacity, raw material pricing, and yield) and comparing how next-generation technologies and fuels will differ from today’s technologies. The commercialized processes and corresponding economics presented here include corn-based ethanol, sugarcane-based ethanol, and soy-based biodiesel. While actual full-scale economic data are available for these processes, they have also been modeled using detailed process simulation. For future biofuel technologies, detailed techno-economic data exist for cellulosic ethanol from both biochemical and thermochemical conversion. In addition, similar techno-economic models have been created for n-butanol production based on publicly available literature data. Key technical and economic challenges facing all of these biofuels are discussed.
A Triangular Double Cantilever Beam Test for Measuring Adhesive or Cohesive Fracture Energy

Abstract A thin layer of adhesive bonded between two stiff elastic plates of uniform thickness and triangular in shape is recommended as a test specimen for measuring cohesive or adhesive strength. A similar test was employed many years ago by Mostovoy et al. 1,2 but appears to have received little attention in the intervening period. Nevertheless, it has marked advantages in comparison with current ASTM tests in simplicity of construction and use. Examples are given using silicone rubber layers bonded between steel plates.
Epsin 1 Promotes Synaptic Growth by Enhancing BMP Signal Levels in Motoneuron Nuclei

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) retrograde signaling is crucial for neuronal development and synaptic plasticity. However, how the BMP effector phospho-Mother against decapentaplegic (pMad) is processed following receptor activation remains poorly understood. Here we show that Drosophila Epsin1/Liquid facets (Lqf) positively regulates synaptic growth through post-endocytotic processing of pMad signaling complex. Lqf and the BMP receptor Wishful thinking (Wit) interact genetically and biochemically. lqf loss of function (LOF) reduces bouton number whereas overexpression of lqf stimulates bouton growth. Lqf-stimulated synaptic overgrowth is suppressed by genetic reduction of wit. Further, synaptic pMad fails to accumulate inside the motoneuron nuclei in lqf mutants and lqf suppresses synaptic overgrowth in spinster (spin) mutants with enhanced BMP signaling by reducing accumulation of nuclear pMad. Interestingly, lqf mutations reduce nuclear pMad levels without causing an apparent blockage of axonal transport itself. Finally, overexpression of Lqf significantly increases the number of multivesicular bodies (MVBs) in the synapse whereas lqf LOF reduces MVB formation, indicating that Lqf may function in signaling endosome recycling or maturation. Based on these observations, we propose that Lqf plays a novel endosomal role to ensure efficient retrograde transport of BMP signaling endosomes into motoneuron nuclei.
Synthesis of optically pure 4-fluoro-glutamines as potential metabolic imaging agents for tumors.

A versatile synthetic route to prepare all four stereoisomeric 4-fluoro-glutamines was developed by exploiting a Passerini three-component reaction. The skeleton of 4-substituted glutamine derivatives was efficiently constructed. Subsequent four-step reactions, highlighted by a “neutralized” TASF fluorination, provided the desired products with high yields and excellent optical purity. The optically pure fluorine-18 labeled 4-fluoroglutamines were also successfully prepared using either a 18-crown-6/KHCO3 or K[222]/K2CO3 catalysis system. Preliminary cell uptake and inhibition studies using the 9L tumor cells and SF188Bcl-xL tumor cells (a glutamine addicted tumor derived from glioblastoma) provided strong evidence for their potential application in conjunction with positron emission tomography (PET) for in vivo imaging of tumors, which use glutamine as an alternative energy source.