cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lateral spread of light adaptation in the rat retina.

Abstract Recordings from the rat optic tract fibers were used to assess changes in sensitivity under various conditions of adaptation. An adapting background which excites only a small fraction of the rods can yet cause a several-fold change in sensitivity. A small adapting spot much more effectively decreases the cell's sensitivity to a superimposed test than to test spots in positions far from the adapting locus. Thus, adaptation spreads laterally but not uniformly throughout the ganglion cell center. Scattered light does not account for the spread, since a displaced adapting spot can be more effective than one superimposed on the test spot.
An investigation of an experiment model in the physical sciences for the junior high student

An experiment designed to increase the students' capacity for investigating physical science problems empirically.
Temperature-dependent susceptibility of the symmetric anderson model: connection to the kondo model

The temperature-dependent impurity susceptibility for the symmetric Anderson Hamiltonian is discussed for all physically relevant values of its parameters $U$ (the Coulomb correlation energy) and $\ensuremath{\Gamma}$ (the $d$-level width). For $Ug\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{\Gamma}$, the results, for temperatures less than $\frac{U}{10{k}_{B}}$, map onto those of the spin-\textonehalf{} Kondo Hamiltonian with an effective exchange constant given by $\ensuremath{\rho}{J}_{\mathrm{eff}}=\ensuremath{-}\frac{8\ensuremath{\Gamma}}{\ensuremath{\pi}U}$. At higher temperatures the results show the formation of the local moment from the free orbital.
Elastic phase transitions: A new model☆

Abstract In this note we consider a new model for one-dimensional clastic phase transitions. The model is described by two hyperbolic systems: one which propagates information at speeds ± c and the other at speeds ±λ where λ > c > 0. The model supports slow-moving under-compressive shocks which connect separate phases of the material and microstructural equilibrium solutions similar to those predicted by viscosity-capillarity theories for such materials. Our principal results are contained in Section 3 and describe the long-term behavior of the system. Section 4 presents numerical simulations for our model for a variety of initial and boundary conditions. These results confirm the analysis of Sections 2 and 3.
Substrate-Specific Derangements in Mitochondrial Metabolism and Redox Balance in the Atrium of the Type 2 Diabetic Human Heart

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the impact of diabetes on oxidant balance and mitochondrial metabolism of carbohydrate- and lipid-based substrates in myocardium of type 2 diabeti...
Neutron polarization by Coulomb scattering

Abstract The polarization of neutrons by Coulomb scattering is examined in the low energy region (kR ⪡ 1) at energies corresponding to a Breit-Wigner s-wave resonance. It is found that one has virtually 100% polarization at small angles.
Rational expectations and the effects of government debt

Abstract This paper incorporates the effects of government debt into a standard rational expectations macroeconomic model. Due to limited current information, even when the most extreme propositions about fiscal neutrality are true, there are output and interest rate effects of unanticipated changes in government debt. Therefore the observation of a positive correlation between government deficits and output or interest rates does not imply that government bonds are net wealth.
Wnt pathway in pulmonary fibrosis in the bleomycin mouse model.

Background The Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway plays an important role in regulating cellular differentiation, proliferation, and polarity. Methods We used bleomycin to induce lung fibrosis in a transgenic Wnt reporter mouse to characterize the expression pattern of cyclin D1, MMP-7, and TGF-beta in conjunction with the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway. LacZ expression reveals the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway through the activated (nuclear) beta-catenin and coactivation of LEF/TCF transcription factors. X-gal staining and immunohistochemical staining of beta-catenin, cyclin D1, MMP-7, and TGF-beta were assessed after bleomycin administration. Results We observed LacZ expression in bronchiolar proliferative lesions and the epithelium in remodeled cystic and fibrotic areas at both 1 and 3 weeks. Nuclear beta-catenin staining was prominent in epithelial cells of remodeled and fibrotic areas at 3 weeks. MMP-7 was faint in basement membranes of airways and matrix zones in fibrotic areas at 3 weeks. Cyclin D1 was observed in alveolar macrophages (AM), alveolar epithelium, and fibrotic areas consistent with rapid cell turnover in these areas at both 1 and 3 weeks. TGF-beta was faintly staining in alveolar macrophages and epithelial cells at 3 weeks. Conclusion The Wnt/beta-catenin pathway is activated in bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis, and downstream genes were localized in AM, alveolar epithelium, and interstitium.
Dissolved Nutrient Fluxes through a Sandy Estuarine Beachface (Cape Henlopen, Delaware, U.S.A.): Contributions from Fresh Groundwater Discharge, Seawater Recycling, and Diagenesis

The sandy beachface at Cape Henlopen, Delaware, receives dissolved nutrient inputs from fresh upland groundwater and estuarine seawater and exports nutrients through intertidal and submarine groundwater discharge. The discharge of brackish beachface waters indicates that there must be additional diagenetic nutrient sources and sinks within the porous beachface aquifer. At some times of the year, diagenetic processes within the beachface remove nitrate from waters draining the beachface consistent with the stoichiometry of either denitrification or dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium. Up to 50–100% of the nitrate load from the upland groundwaters is apparently reduced to N2O/N2 gas or ammonium during these periods. At other times, ammonium and nitrate are added to beachface waters consistent with the stoichiometry of organic matter remineralization and nitrification. Dissolved reactive phosphorus and silica are similarly consumed and produced by beachface processes at different times of the year, presumably by adsorption or desorption. Infiltration of reactive estuarine particles may be an additional source of nutrients and carbon that supports the diagenetic activity in the beachface aquifer. These observations suggest that sandy beachfaces are biogeochemically reactive systems that can serve as sources, sinks, and temporary reservoirs of nutrients to support the primary and secondary production of the adjacent intertidal zone.
A Study of Participants in an Anti-Vietnam War Demonstration1

What attitudinal and cognitive factors prompt an individual to participate in protests designed to change government policy? This study found that participants in a large-scale anti-Vietnam war demonstration believed that a good citizen should play an active role in the political process. They also responded more positively toward ideological than traditional U.S. symbols, were oriented toward the international rather than national political system, and were concerned more with humanity in general than with any particular political system. Nonstudent protestors leaned toward socialism and America's Populist traditions and felt less politically efficacious than student demonstrators.
How Good is 85%?: A Survey Tool to Connect Classifier Evaluation to Acceptability of Accuracy

Many HCI and ubiquitous computing systems are characterized by two important properties: their output is uncertain-it has an associated accuracy that researchers attempt to optimize-and this uncertainty is user-facing-it directly affects the quality of the user experience. Novel classifiers are typically evaluated using measures like the F1 score-but given an F-score of (e.g.) 0.85, how do we know whether this performance is good enough? Is this level of uncertainty actually tolerable to users of the intended application-and do people weight precision and recall equally? We set out to develop a survey instrument that can systematically answer such questions. We introduce a new measure, acceptability of accuracy, and show how to predict it based on measures of classifier accuracy. Out tool allows us to systematically select an objective function to optimize during classifier evaluation, but can also offer new insights into how to design feedback for user-facing classification systems (e.g., by combining a seemingly-low-performing classifier with appropriate feedback to make a highly usable system). It also reveals potential issues with the ubiquitous F1-measure as applied to user-facing systems.
Cytokine Polymorphisms in Men with Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: Association with Diagnosis and Treatment Response

Purpose: The chronic pelvic pain syndrome is a common disorder of unknown etiology. Elevated cytokines in prostate fluid and semen are frequent findings. We studied genetic polymorphisms that can alter cytokine gene expression in men with the chronic pelvic pain syndrome.Materials and Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from blood from 36 men with the chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Reversed sequence specific oligonucleotide probing was used to genotype the polymorphisms for cytokine promoter sites, namely tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α 308, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β 25, TGF-β 10, interleukin (IL)-10 1082 and IL-6 174. Genotype frequencies were compared with 252 controls as well as among groups of patients with the chronic pelvic pain syndrome according to diagnostic category and treatment response.Results: There were no differences in men with the chronic pelvic pain syndrome and control patients in the frequency of TNF-α, TGF-β or IL-6 alleles, although those with the chronic pelvic pain syndrome w...
Applying the TBC method in introductory programming courses

In our research, we have introduced and implemented a new software development method, testing before coding (TBC), to bring in the benefits of using software development lifecycle in computer programming and improved students program quality. TBC follows the basic concept of agile method (such as test-driven development, TDD) and makes students a "cultural shift" in developing their computer programs i.e., students must test their own codes and consider testing as an indispensable part of program development. Our method has been exercised in the introductory computer programming courses and has improved the students' programs quality at least 24%.
Emotional intelligence and transformational and transactional leadership: A meta-analysis.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate claims that emotional intelligence is significantly related to transformational and other leadership be haviors. Results (based on 62 independent samples) indicated a validity estimate of .59 when ratings of both emotional intelligence and leadership behaviors were provided by the same source (self, subordinates, peers, or superiors). However, when ratings of the constructs were derived from different sources, the validity estimate was .12. Lower validity estimates were found for transactional and laissez-faire leadership behaviors. Separate analyses were performed for each measure of emotional intelligence. Trait measures of emotional intelligence tended to show higher validities than ability-based measures of emotional intelligence. Agreement across ratings sources for the same construct was low for both transformational leadership (.14) and emotional intelligence (.16).
Power dissipation component of a management protocol for ad-hoc networks

We present a protocol and a scheduling algorithm that determine the time interval during which each node with low energy will be powered off (deactivated) to recharge its local energy source. The subnetwork induced each time by the active network nodes must remain connected. A fast algorithm for this scheduling problem is presented and experimental results are given.
CLEMMA: the design of a practical configuration librarian

A configuration management system organizes large software systems and helps maintain those systems over a long lifetime. The problems that arise in the design of such a tool include the manipulation and accurate representation of system configurations, versions and derivation histories. Access control, the large quantities of data, and the evolutionary nature of software development all help to compound the problems. The SAGA (Software Automation, Generation and Administration) project has developed CLEMMA, a configuration librarian. CLEMMA uses relational database technology to provide a powerful but compact configuration management system. It is based on an extended relational model of software development in which components have an object-oriented representation. The authors present the design of CLEMMA and discuss its solutions to the problems of configuration management. >
Closely separated dual-band reflectarray design for satellite communications

Summary form only given. The goal of this work is to design a planar reflectarray antenna to cover a dual-link satellite communication at Ku-band, 12.25 - 12.75 GHz for transmitting and 14 - 14.5 GHz for receiving, respectively. Dual-linear polarization is desired for both bands. Besides, a singler-layer design is targeted for the sake of simplified fabrication, reduced height and decreased loss.For the design of a dual-band reflectarray on a single layer substrate, the traditional way is to have two sets of elements, each individually designed for one band. It works well when the two bands are separated far away from each other, because the coupling between neighboring elements is weak. However, in our design project, since the frequency ratio for the two bands is 1.14, which means the coupling becomes stronger and it is required that element bandwidth shall be narrow that the elements of the 1st band barely changed phases within the 2nd band, and vice versa. It has been shown that although somehow a closely separated dual-band reflectarray could be achieved in this way, the element's bandwidth is too narrow to meet the 0.5 GHz requirement for each band. A novel method, dual-band phase synthesis method, is presented here. By minimizing the total phase error generated from all of the elements, which is the difference between required and achievable phase, a good far-field performance could be obtained at the center frequencies of both bands. Since only one set of elements was used by this method, the coupling problem in the traditional method is not an issue in the current design. As long as the element is properly selected, a dual-band reflectarray achieving 0.5 GHz bandwidth for each band could be realized. Not only a dual-band reflectarray could be obtained, by choosing an element with wider bandwidth, a wide-band relfectarray can also be designed with this method for a bandwidth large enough to cover both required bands. Comparison of traditional method and the novel method presented here, as well as the bandwidth performance with narrow and wide band elements, were shown in the presentation.
A history of depression in women is associated with an altered GABAergic neuroactive steroid profile

Summary The 3a,5a- and 3a,5b-reduced metabolites of progesterone, deoxycorticosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) have potent effects on neurotransmission mediated by GABAA receptors, and dysregulation of these receptors has been implicated in depression. Using gas chromatography—mass spectrometry, we compared neuroactive steroid concentrations in women with a history of depressive disorders, but who were in full remission at the time of testing (n = 11) to never depressed women (n = 17) both before and after a challenge with oral micronized progesterone (300 mg). Serum concentrations of the following were obtained: four progesterone-derived GABAergic neuroactive steroids, the precursor pregnenolone, androstenedionederived neuroactive steroids, and the precursor DHEA. As an index of conversion of progesterone to neuroactive steroids, we also examined ratios of neuroactive steroids to progesterone following the oral progesterone challenge. Results indicated that both before and after oral progesterone, women with histories of depression showed lower concentrations of all GABAergic neuroactive steroids than never depressed women. Those with a history of depression also had lower cortisol concentrations. Because serum neuroactive steroids are mainly synthesized in the adrenals, we hypothesize that histories of depression may be associated with persistent adrenal suppression. Following the progesterone challenge, ratios of the progesterone-derived neuroactive steroids to plasma progesterone concentrations were elevated in women with depression histories, suggesting there may be an adaptive shift in the metabolism of progesterone that compensates for lower circulating neuroactive steroid concentrations.
Bias in a Laboratory Simulation of a Signaling Game with Implications for the Influence of the News Media

Cai and Wang (2005) conducted a laboratory simulation of the Crawford-Sobel “strategic information transmission” game. The researchers were most interested in observing the amount of information that senders in the game transmitted to receivers. Consequently, they did not examine what I call the no-policy-bias implication of the game. This implication is that—as the Nash equilibria to the game predict—the final policy that receivers choose, in expectation, should equal the policy that they would have chosen if the senders had sent no signal. That is, the senders should not be able to systematically fool the receivers. Contrary to the Nash equlibria, however, all versions of the experiment produced a policy bias. The results can be explained by a well-established empirical regularity documented by behavioral economists. This is that people tend to under-estimate the degree to which other people are strategic. I apply these results to the question of media effects. The Cai-Wang results—as well as the models of behavioral economists—suggest that real-world journalists should indeed be able to significantly affect the thoughts and behavior of real-world news consumers.
Cell sorting in the presence of cytochalasin B.

The ability of cytochalasin B to inhibit ruffled membrane activity and cellular locomotion of vertebrate cells in monolayer culture prompted its use to study the necessity for this kind of active cellular locomotion in cell sorting in heterotypic cell aggregates. Cell sorting was inhibited in chick embryo heart-pigmented retina aggregates but a remarkable degree of sorting did occur in neural retina-pigmented retina aggregates. In these experiments, the levels of cytochalasin B employed (5 or 10 µg/ml) are sufficient to inhibit completely locomotion of these cell types in monolayer culture. It is proposed that the degree of cell movement achieved during sorting in neural retina-pigmented retina aggregates in the presence of cytochalasin B is the result of changes in cell contact resulting from adhesive interaction of cells. The effect of cytochalasin B on the initial aggregation of dissociated cells was also tested. With the cell types used in this study (chick embryo neural retina and limb bud), aggregation was not affected for a period of several hours.
Effect of sulfonylurea drugs on the binding of triiodothyronine and thyroxine to thyroxine-binding globulin.

ABSTRACT We studied the effect of sulfonylurea drugs on the binding of thyroid hormones to serum proteins in man. In 4 subjects given chlorpropamide iv (30 mg/k), the serum resin-sponge uptake of T3-131I (resin uptake) increased 24% above control values at 5 min, declining toward normal at 6 hr. In 11 patients given 1 g tolbutamide iv, the resin uptake rose 10% above control values. In 3 hospitalized patients, the resin uptake increased slightly but significantly, remaining in the normal range, during oral administration of chlorpropamide. Thirteen outpatients with detectable blood levels of chlorpropamide also had normal resin uptakes. Incubation of normal human serum with either chlorpropamide or tolbutamide increased resin uptake in a concentration-dependent manner. Electrophoresis of serum in the presence of chlorpropamide produced dissociation of T3-131I from thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) at a chlorpropamide concentration of 12.5 mg/100 ml or greater. Binding of T4-131I to TBG was also reduced by ...
Great Minds in Management: The Process of Theory Development

This article presents a review of a book entitled “Great Minds in Management: The Process of Theory Development,” edited by Ken G. Smith and Michael A. Hitt.
Encoding and decoding target locations with waves in the turtle visual cortex

Visual stimuli elicit waves of activity that propagate across the visual cortex of turtles. An earlier study showed that these waves encode information about the positions of stimuli in visual space. This paper addresses the question of how this information can be decoded from the waves. Windowing techniques were used to temporally localize information contained in the wave. Sliding encoding windows were used to represent waves of activity as low dimensional temporal strands in an appropriate space. Expanding detection window (EDW) or sliding detection window (SDW) techniques were combined with statistical hypothesis testing to discriminate input stimuli. Detection based on an EDW was more reliable than detection based on a SDW. Detection performance improved at a very early stage of the cortical response as the length of the detection window is increased. The property of intrinsic noise was explicitly considered. Assuming that the noise is colored provided a more reliable estimate than did the assumption of a white noise in the cortical output.
An analysis of intertemporal and cross-sectional determinants of earnings response coefficients

Abstract Stock pride change associated with a given unexpected earnings change (the earnings response coefficient) exhibits cross-sectional and temporal variation. We predict and document evidence that the earnings response coefficient is a function of riskless interest rates and the riskiness, growth and/or persistence of earnings. The earnings response coefficient also varies cross-sectionally with the holding period return interval. Collectively, our results explain the previously reported differential earnings response coefficient with respect to size. Moreover, by including the factors noted above, the empirical specification of the earnings/returns relation is significantly improved.
Discrete and Infinite Host Frameworks Based Upon Resorcin[4]Arenes by Design

Chemistry has witnessed the emergence of an approach to chemical synthesis that focuses on the exploitation of non-covalent forces (e.g. hydrogen bonds, □-□ interactions) for the design of multi-component supramolecular frameworks1. Fascination with Nature’s ability to direct the self-assembly of small subunits into large superstructures (e.g. viruses, fullerenes), coupled with a desire to construct materials possessing unique bulk physical properties (e.g. optical, magnetic), has undoubtedly provided a major impetus for their design.2
Evaluation of a computational model of surprise arousal in narratives

In this paper we analyze the effectiveness of Prevoyant, a planning-based computational model of surprise arousal suggested in our previous paper [1]. This evaluation was performed by measuring the effect of stories produced by this method on several factors contributing to surprise in narratives (e.g., expectation failures, the importance of story events, the emotional valence of a reader, and resolution) and their relation to story interest. To measure the ratings of a reader's surprise and story interest, we conducted a pilot study, where three different discourse types — Chronological, Flashback, and Flashback with Foreshadowing — were compared. A one-way ANOVA and a priori pair-wise comparisons confirmed that the mean ratings of surprise and interestingness increased at the .01 and .05 level, respectively. While the number of subjects in this study was relatively small, the significance of our results argues for support to the claim that the computational model we evaluated can effectively manipulate readers' sense of surprise in their experience of a narrative.
Long front time switching impulse tests of long air gap in UHV projects at altitude of 2100 m

The past and recent investigations show that front time of switching overvoltage waveforms in Ultra High Voltage (UHV) system of long distance transmission are mostly in long wave front time exceeding 1000μs. The long front time of switching impulse voltage has been deviated from the critical front time. This paper is involved with breakdown characteristics and external insulation design under long front switching impulse voltage in UHV system. All the Tests were performed on an outdoor UHV test site at altitude of 2100 m, China Southern Power Grid Co. Ltd. (CSG). Breakdown characteristics of rod-plane and actual size tower-conductor in /spl l.chemo/800 kV UHV DC transmission line are obtained under wide front time switching impulse voltages from 100 to 2350 μs. From the comprehensive studies of such tests, it is proposed that U50 of front time exceeding 1000 μs increases 20% compared with the results of standard switching impulse (250/2500 μs) tests and standard deviations of U50 is 6% in UHV transmission system. Finally, an air gap insulation design procedure in conductor-tower of UHV transmission line at altitude of 0-2000 m is presented. Long front time switching impulse strength of conductor-tower gap is proposed into selection by reference in UHV transmission line insulation design.
Conjoint analysis: using a market-based research model for healthcare decision making.

Background: Conjoint analysis is a market-based research model that has been used by businesses for more than 35 years to predict consumer preferences in product design and purchasing. Researchers in medicine, healthcare economics, and health policy have discovered the value of this methodology in determining treatment preferences, resource allocation, and willingness to pay. Objectives: To describe the conjoint analysis methodology and explore value-added applications in nursing research. Methods: Conjoint analysis methodology is described, using examples from the healthcare and business literature, and personal experience with the method. Implications: Nurses are called upon to increase interdisciplinary research, provide an evidence base for nursing practice, create patient-centered treatments, and revise nursing education. Other disciplines have met challenges like these using conjoint analysis and discrete choice modeling.
Effectiveness of telephone reminders in improving rate of appointments kept at an outpatient clinic: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND Clinic appointments in which patients do not appear (no-show) result in loss of provider time and revenue. Previous studies have shown variable effectiveness in telephone and mailed reminders to patients. METHODS We conducted a randomized controlled trial of telephone reminders 1 day before the scheduled appointments in an urban family practice residency clinic. Patients with appointments were randomized to be telephoned 1 day before the scheduled visit; 479 patients were telephoned and 424 patients were not telephoned. RESULTS The proportions of patients not showing up for their appointments were 19% in the telephoned and 26% in the not-telephoned groups (P = .0065). Significantly more cancelations were made when telephoning patients before their visit, 17% compared with 9.9%. The opened scheduling slots were used for appointments for other patients. This additional revenue offset the cost of telephone intervention in our cost analysis. CONCLUSION Reminding patients by telephone calls 1 day before their appointments yields increased cancelations that can be used to schedule other patients. Telephone reminders provide substantial net revenue, but the results may be population specific.
Nickel partitioning between olivine and silicate melt; Henry's law revisited

Partition coefficients for nickel between olivine and an aluminous anhydrous silicate melt have been determined as a function of nickel content under isothermal conditions (1300"C) at pressures between I atm and 20 kbar. The partition coefficients are independent of nickel content until 1000 ppm Ni is dissolved in the forsterite. No pressure-dependence of this concentration limit was observed. It is concluded that a maximum of about 1000 ppm Ni can dissolve in forsterite according to Henry's law. The partition coefficients are pressure-dependent at both higher and lower nickel concentration. The pressure-dependence is less pronounced in the olivine with nickel content above 1000 ppm because the activity coefficient of nickel in the coexisting liquid varies with pressure, presumably as a consequence of pressure-induced structural changes of the silicate melt. Fractional crystallization of olivine results in a lowering of the nickel content of the magma, but the extent to which such fractionation results in a lowered nickel content depends on both the nickel content of the silicate magma and the confining pressure. It is concluded that the nickel content of natural magma derived from the upper mantle is commonly controlled by fractional crystallization that involves minerals other than the major rockforming minerals.
An Empirical Analysis of the Pricing of Interest Rate Caps

This paper evaluates the empirical performance of the Vasicek (1977) model and the extended-Vasicek model proposed by Hull and White (1990) for pricing interest rate caps and hedging their interest rate risks. I find that the Vasicek model cap prices are significantly smaller than the market prices. An important reason for this bias is that this model does not fit the term structure of futures rates particularly well. It is found that the extended-Vasicek model cap prices are closer to the market prices than the original Vasicek model. A strategy to hedge the interest rate risks of caps constructed on the bias of the extended- Vasicek model reduces over 90 percent of the cash flow variance for at-the-money caps with less than one year maturity. The effectiveness of the hedge strategy declines with the time to maturity of the caps and for three year at- the-money caps the hedge strategy reduces cash flow variance by about 63 percent.
Selling Electrical Safety in Your Organization: How to Become an Effective Change Agent

Statistically, electricity is one of the most dangerous hazards in the workplace. Then why is it so hard to convince some managers and executives to prioritize vital programs that could save lives, save money, ensure process uptime, and increase or protect profitability? The reason is simple: People and organizations change only when they are sufficiently motivated or when change is forced upon them. Therefore, without the ability to force change, people who wish to effect change must learn how to effectively motivate or "sell" their ideas up the chain of command. This article highlights the basics of effective sales so that the reader can be a more effective change agent.
Influences of leukemia inhibitory factor on the proliferation and differentiation of human embryonic neural stem cells

Aim:To investigate the effects of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) on (NSCs) the proliferation and differentiation human embryonic neural stem cells. Methods;LIF was added to DMEM/F12-based medium, the growth of NSCs was observed, the number of NSCs was counted at different times, then the cells were induced to differentiate into the main types of central nerve system by altering culture conditions and were viewed under microscope. Results; On the third day, the cells began to divide and formed the neurospheres, then the neurospheres expended increasingly. There were no significant differences between the experimental group and the control group in the number of viable cells and neurospheres. The experiment of differentiation showed that few NSCs differentiated in the culture medium with LIF. Conclusions: LIF can facilitate the proliferation of NSCs and inhibit the differentiation of NSCs in vitro.
Determining and Controlling the Stoichiometry of Cu2ZnSnS4 Photovoltaics: The Physics and Its Implications

Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) is an environmentally friendly photovoltaic material with promising applications in thin-film solar cells. Although CZTS’s efficiency is currently too low, stoichiometry/defect engineering presents a strategy for further improvement. As-grown CZTS is typically disordered and therefore prone to form secondary phases, making the final product stoichiometry difficult to determine and even harder to control. We use first-principles quantum mechanics in combination with Monte Carlo simulations to determine CZTS stoichiometry under various experimental conditions. We develop an approach to predicting the optimal CZTS stoichiometry, explaining the physical origin of Zn-enrichment observed in experiments. We further propose practical ways to introduce more free carriers into CZTS in order to screen observed local potential fluctuations, increase conductivity, and ultimately improve the efficiency of CZTS.
Case Report: Abnormal Liver Tissue Uptake of Tc-99m Pyrophosphate during Myocardial Imaging

A case study is presented of a patient undergoing a Tc-99m pyrophosphate heart scan to investigate the possibility of myocardial infarction. During patient positioning, it was noted on the oscilloscope that there was abnormal uptake of radioactivity in the liver. Investigations suggested that the scintigrams may have become positive due to uptake by calcium in necrotic areas of the liver. No autopsy was performed to verify the hypothesis. (JMT)
Angiotensin-(1-7) Delays Onset of Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Mice with Muscular Dystrophy

We have demonstrated that angiotensin II-induced autonomic and skeletal muscle dysfunction precedes and predicts development of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and premature mortality in sarcoglycan-d...
Photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory studies of N-rich energetic materials

The geometric and electronic structures of molecular anionic energetic materials (EMs) DAAF (3,3′-diamino-4,4′-azoxyfurazan), FOX-7 (1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethene), 5,5′-BT (5,5′-bistetrazole), and 1,5′-BT (1,5′-bistetrazole) are explored employing anionic photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations. The electron binding energies of the observed anionic, energetic material related species are determined and their corresponding anionic structures are assigned. Decomposition reactions for negatively charged EMs can proceed with different energy barriers, and thus mechanisms, from those for their related neutral EMs. Reactivity based on the anionic initial fragments of these EM species further reinforces their respective highly reactive and explosive nature. Fragment ions of the form EM−-H-X (X = N2, N2+NH, …) are additionally observed. Detection of such species suggests that EM−-H could serve as promising new candidates for EMs, assuming that such species are synthetically available, perhaps as energetic salts. Vertical detachment energies for transitions to the ground and first triplet electronic excited states of neutral matrix dye anion DCM− are additionally determined.
Conventions of the Naimisa Forest

Le Mahabharata est recite dans la Foret Naimisa. En outre, les nombreux puranas font de ce lieu un lieu de rassemblement pour le recit et un cadre. L'A. analyse ce lieu de rassemblement ainsi que deux conventions Mahabharata. Ce qui apparait frappant a l'A., c'est le fait que les poetes vediques conservent non seulement les rites vediques et les histoires qui concernent ces lieux particuliers, mais surtout qu'ils en fassent des conventions. Le Mahabharata propose sept descriptions de la Foret Naimisa
Calcium and Phosphorus Homeostasis I: The Calcitropic Hormones

Overall calcium and phosphorus balance is considered, listing the estimated daily sources and sinks for each. Their interaction via the solubility product of calcium phosphate is discussed. PTH is introduced as the first calcitropic hormone; it is secreted in response to hypocalcemia and has direct effects on bone and kidney, and indirect effects on the intestine through activation of vitamin D. Calcitonin and its effects described, but no known diseases due to deficiencies or excess of CT secretion are known. Vitamin D structure and synthesis are discussed, along with its activation by successive hydroxylation reactions in the liver and kidney. The fact that vitamin D is not a vitamin is explored. The physiological regulation of its activation in the kidney by PTH and low plasma [phosphate] is discussed.
Circuitry and Coding Used in a Flight Mill System to Study Flight Performance of Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

Summary We present the circuitry design and plans of a photogate and accompanying Arduino board with coding for a data recording program used with a flight mill apparatus. These are being used to test the flight capacity of Halyomorpha halys Stal (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) under various environmental conditions.
Using Ring Strain to Control 4π-Electrocyclization Reactions: Torquoselectivity in Ring Closing of Medium-Ring Dienes and Ring Opening of Bicyclic Cyclobutenes

Syntheses of strained cyclic dienes were accomplished via palladium(II)-catalyzed oxidative cyclizations of terminal bis(vinylboronate esters). The reactions generate strained (E,E)-1,3-dienes that undergo spontaneous 4π-electrocyclizations to form bicyclic cyclobutenes. Formation of the cyclobutenes is driven by the strain in the medium-ring (E,E)-1,3-diene intermediate. Thermal ring openings of the cyclobutenes give (Z,Z)-1,3-diene products, again for thermodynamic reasons. DFT calculations verified the thermodynamic versus kinetic control of the reactions, and kinetic studies are in excellent agreement with the calculated energy changes. An extension of the tandem coupling/4π-electrocyclization pathway was demonstrated by a palladium(II)-catalyzed oxidative homocoupling/8π-electrocyclization cascade.
Rusty Grain Beetle (Coleoptera: Cucujidae) Oviposition in Cracked and Whole Corn

Number of eggs laid by individual female rusty grain beetles, Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Stephens), during a 72-h period was determined on cracked and whole corn at 75% RH and 30°C. More eggs were l...
Protection of Radiation Damage by Eicosanoids-Clinical Studies

Eicosanoids have been implicated in the malignant potential of human and animal tumors. A variety of tumors produce a large amount of eicosanoids, which have been shown to influence metastases and growth but also suppression of the host. (1–11). Radiation therapy of cancer can lead to local tumor control and potential cure. Recent investigations have shown an increase in prostaglandin production and release in cell and animal models by radiation. (12–25).
Mobilization of malignant ascites with diuretics is dependent on ascitic fluid characteristics

Serial ascites and plasma volumes were measured during diuresis in nine patients with ascites caused by peritoneal carcinomatosis, four patients with chylous malignant ascites, and three patients with portal hypertension-related ascites caused by massive hepatic metastases. Oral diuretics were given to achieve an adequate natriuresis on a sodium-restricted diet. During the study period (7.8 +/- 3.2 days), patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis and chylous ascites lost 0.49 +/- 0.31 and 0.51 +/- 0.42 kg/day in weight, respectively, with negligible change in ascites volumes (-0.03 +/- 0.11 and 0.02 +/- 0.09 L/day). Patients with ascites caused by massive hepatic metastasis lost 1.06 +/- 0.15 kg/day in weight (P = 0.01 for massive hepatic metastasis vs. peritoneal carcinomatosis) and 0.23 +/- 0.13 L/day of ascites (P less than 0.05 vs. other groups). Plasma volume changes were not significantly different among the three groups. Patients with edema (9/16) had a greater natriuresis and daily weight loss. Three patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis and one with chylous ascites developed renal dysfunction or symptomatic hypotension. No patient with massive hepatic metastasis developed these complications. In patients with ascites caused by peritoneal carcinomatosis or chylous malignant ascites there is no mobilization of ascites, whereas in patients with massive hepatic metastasis, ascites may be mobilized with diuretics.
Examining the Role of Contextual Exercises and Adaptive Expertise on CAD Model Creation Procedures

As computer-aided design (CAD) tools become more integral in the product commercialization process, ensuring that students have efficient and innovative expertise necessary to adapt becomes more important. This work examines the role of adaptive expertise on CAD modeling behavior and the effect of contextual modeling exercises on the manifestation of behaviors associated with adaptive expertise in a population of student participants. A methodology comprising multiple data elicitation tools is used to examine these relationships; these tools include: survey data, model screen capture data analysis, and interviews. Results show that participants engaged in contextual exercises spent more of their modeling time engaged in actual modeling activities as opposed to planning when compared to a control group. Limited statistical support is provided for the role of contextual exercises leading to the manifestation of behaviors associated with adaptive expertise. The amount of time spent engaged in actual modeling is positively correlated with the adaptive expertise behaviors identified in the interviews.
Nutritional Strategies in Heart Disease Prevention

Previous epidemiologic investigations established total and low-density lipoprotein blood cholesterol levels as important risk factors for coronary heart disease. Recent prospective clinical trials have confirmed that cholesterol lowering is effective in both primary and secondary prevention of coronary artery disease. Dietary modification is the cornerstone of treatment of hypercholesterolemia, and this article describes a structured, three-phase approach to dietary change. Strategies designed to increase adherence to dietary modifications are outlined.
Surgical treatment of young women with breast cancer: Public vs private hospitals.

Disparities in breast cancer treatment have been documented in young and underserved women. This study aimed to determine whether surgical disparities exist among young breast cancer patients by comparing cancer treatment at a public safety-net hospital (BH) and private cancer center (PCC) within a single institution. This was a retrospective study of young women (<45) diagnosed with invasive breast cancer (stage I-III) from 2011-2016. Patient information was abstracted from the breast cancer database at BH and PCC. Demographic variables, surgery type, method of presentation, and stage were analyzed using Pearson's chi-square tests and binary logistic regression. A total of 275 patients between ages 25-45 with invasive breast cancer (Stage I-III) were included in the study. There were 69 patients from BH and 206 patients from PCC. At PCC, the majority of patients were Caucasian (68%), followed by Asian (11%), Hispanic (10%), and African American (8.7%). At BH, patients were mostly Hispanic (47.8%), followed by Asian (27.5%), and African American (10.1%). At PCC, 82% had a college/graduate degree versus 18.6% of patients at BH (P < 0.001). All patients at PCC reported English as their primary language versus 30% of patients at BH (P < 0.001). Patients at PCC were more likely to present with lower stage cancer (P = 0.04), and less likely to present with a palpable mass (P = 0.04). Hospital type was not a predictor of receipt of mastectomy (P = 0.5), nor was race, primary language, or education level. Of patients who received a mastectomy, 87% at BH and 76% at PCC had immediate reconstruction. Surgical management of young women with breast cancer in a public hospital versus private hospital setting was equivalent, even after controlling for race, primary language, stage, and education level.
Effects of the Girls on the Move randomized trial on adiposity and aerobic performance (secondary outcomes) in low-income adolescent girls.

Background Limited, mixed evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of physical activity interventions on adiposity and aerobic performance in adolescent underrepresented populations. Objective To examine effects of Girls on the Move on body mass index z-scores (BMI-z), percent (%) body fat, and aerobic performance in fifth- to eighth-grade underrepresented girls. Methods A group randomized trial, involving 12 intervention and 12 control schools in low-income areas, was conducted. Participants (n = 1519) were low-active girls. The 17-week intervention included (a) a physical activity club, (b) two motivational interviewing sessions, and (c) one Internet-based session. BMI-z was determined from measured height and weight; % body fat was assessed using bioelectric impedance. Aerobic performance was assessed using a shuttle run. Demographics, physical activity (accelerometer), and pubertal development were assessed. Linear mixed models, adjusting for baseline, were used to examine group differences in postintervention. Results No significant between-group differences in BMI-z existed at postintervention, but % body fat increased less among intervention than control group girls (Mchange = 0.43% vs 0.73%). Aerobic performance decreased less in intervention vs control (Mchange = -0.39 vs -0.57). Conclusions Although the intervention positively impacted % body fat and aerobic performance in underrepresented girls, more research is necessary to determine optimal implementation for yielding greater effects.
Single Incision Right Colectomy

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has revolutionized the traditional approach to colectomy. By minimizing trauma to the abdominal wall and the field of resection, MIS colectomy has been associated with less postoperative pain, shorter return of bowel function, and reduction in the hospital length of stay. Single-incision laparoscopy (SIL) is a derivative of traditional multiport laparoscopy, combining trocar and specimen extraction sites, with the intention of reducing pain and scarring.
Single Cell Transcriptional Profiling of Phox2b-Expressing Geniculate Ganglion Neurons

The sense of taste is fundamental for survival as harmful substances can be discriminated and prevented from entering the body. Taste buds act as chemosensory sentinels and detect bitter, salty, sweet, sour, and umami substances and transmit signals to afferent nerve fibers. Whether a single gustatory nerve fiber selectively is responsive to a single taste modality (through taste receptor cell activation) is a point of contention in the field.. In the present study, we present a method for single cell RNA sequencing of gustatory geniculate ganglion neurons and compare the results obtained to two prior published works. Additionally, independent reanalysis of the raw data from these previous studies confirms molecular heterogeneity of ganglion neurons. Multiple gustatory clusters are found, and we compare cluster markers identified by the original works and those identified in the present study. Across all datasets and analyses, specific clusters show a high degree of correlation including a somatosensory cluster (Phox2b-, Piezo2+, Fxyd2+), a potential sweet-best cluster (Phox2b+, Spon1+, Olfm3+), and a potential sour-best cluster (Phox2b+, Penk+, Htr3a+). Additionally, a putative mechanosensitive gustatory cluster with an unknown functional role is identified (Phox2b+, Piezo2+, Calb1+). Other gustatory clusters (Phox2b+) are more varied across analyses, but are marked by Olfm3. Which, if any, clusters comprise umami-best, bitter-best, or salty-best fibers will require further study.