cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Argumentativeness and the theory of reasoned action

The Theory of Reasoned Action (TORA) suggests that intentions to argue will be a direct function of attitudes about arguing and beliefs about what important others think about arguing. This study applied TORA to the prediction of persons’ intentions to argue on the topic of free condom distribution. Trait argumentativeness was found to mediate normative influences on intentions. The subjective norm as a predictor of intentions differed across levels of argumentativeness. Ego‐involvement was found to be the overall most important determinant of argumentative intentions across argumentative levels. Finally, extrinsic religious orientation affected attitudes in normative beliefs about arguing the issue.
Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy modeling of skin permeability

The skin is a major exposure route for many potentially toxic chemicals. It is, therefore, important to be able to predict the permeability of compounds through skin under a variety of conditions. Available skin permeability databases are often limited in scope and not conducive to developing effective models. This sparseness and ambiguity of available data prompted the use of fuzzy set theory to model and predict skin permeability. Using a previously published database containing 140 compounds, a rule-based Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy model is shown to predict skin permeability of compounds using octanol-water partition coefficient, molecular weight, and temperature as inputs. Model performance was estimated using a cross-validation approach. In addition, 10 data points were removed prior to model development for additional testing with new data. The fuzzy model is compared to a regression model for the same inputs using both R 2 and root mean square error measures. The quality of the fuzzy model is also compared with previously published models. The statistical analysis demonstrates that the fuzzy model performs better than the regression model with identical data and validation protocols. The prediction quality for this model is similar to others that were published. The fuzzy model provides insights on the relationships between lipophilicity, molecular weight, and temperature on percutaneous penetration. This model can be used as a tool for rapid determination of initial estimates of skin permeability.
Time-resolved fluorescence study of the single tryptophans of engineered skeletal muscle troponin C.

The regulatory domain of troponin C (TnC) from chicken skeletal muscle was studied using genetically generated mutants which contained a single tryptophan at positions 22, 52, and 90. The quantum yields of Trp-22 are 0.33 and 0.25 in the presence of Mg2+ (2-Mg state) and Ca2+ (4-Ca state), respectively. The large quantum yield of the 2-Mg state is due to a relatively small nonradiative decay rate and consistent with the emission peak at 331 nm. The intensity decay of this state is monoexponential with a single lifetime of 5.65 ns, independent of wavelength. In the 4-Ca state, the decay is biexponential with the mean of the two lifetimes increasing from 4.54 to 4.92 ns across the emission band. The decay-associated spectrum of the short lifetime is red-shifted by 19 nm relative to the steady-state spectrum. The decay of Trp-52 is biexponential in the 2-Mg state and triexponential in the 4-Ca state. The decay of Trp-90 requires three exponential terms for a satisfactory fit, but can be fitted with two exponential terms in the 4-Ca state. The lower quantum yields (
Neutron activation analysis for trace elements in foods

Food samples reflecting average food consumption by an adult in the southeastern, northeastern, central, and western parts of the United States were collected and prepared as if for consumption. The prepared foods were divided into twelve different food categories and analyzed by instrumental neutron activation analysis. The concentration of Ca, Mn, Mg, Al, Na, K, Cu, Cl, Sb, Hg, Se, Fe, Zn and Co is reported for these food samples.
FT-IR and FT-raman spectroscopy study of the cyclic anhydride intermediates for the esterification of cellulose: III. Cyclic anhydrides formed by the isomers of cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid

Multifunctional carboxylic acids have been used as crosslinking agents for cotton and wood pulp cellulose. In our previous research, we found that a polycarboxylic acid esterifies cellulose through the formation of a 5-membered cyclic anhydride intermediate by the dehydration of two carboxyl groups. In this research, we studied the formation of cyclic anhydride intermediates by different isomers of cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid (CHA) so that we can elucidate the effects of molecular structure on the formation of the anhydride intermediates. We found that both cis-and trans-1,2-CHA form 5-membered anhydride intermediates when temperature reaches their melting points and that cis-1,2-CHA forms the cyclic anhydride at temperatures lower than does trans-1,2-CHA. 1,3-CHA forms 6-membered cyclic anhydride at temperatures much higher than its melting point. The formation of a 5-membered cyclic anhydride intermediates takes place at temperatures lower than that of a 6-membered anhydride. This is probably the main reason why those polycarboxylic acids with their carboxylic acid groups bonded to the adjacent carbons of the molecular backbones are more effective crosslinking agents for cellulose than those with their carboxylic groups bonded to the alternative carbons. No formation of cyclic anhydride was found for 1,4-CHA. The formation of a five-membered cyclic anhydride was accelerated by monosodium phosphate, which is used as a catalyst for the esterification of cotton cellulose by polycarboxylic acids.
Stimulation of sodium transport in turkey erythrocytes by cyclic 3',5'-AMP.

At relatively low concentrations the β-adrenergic blocking agent, propranolol, inhibits competitively isoproterenol-stimulated sodium transport in intact turkey erythrocytes. At higher concentrations propranolol alone inhibits sodium transport; however, this effect is probably not mediated by the adenylate cyclase system. When propranolol was added after turkey erythrocytes had been stimulated by isoproterenol, there was a progressive decrease in sodium influx and an associated decrease in cellular cyclic 3',5'-AMP. These results, plus the observation that addition of cyclic 3',5'-AMP to the medium stimulated sodium transport, offer further support for the conclusion that stimulation of sodium transport in turkey erythrocytes by β-adrenergic catecholamines is mediated by activation of adenylate cyclase and consequent accumulation of cellular cyclic 3'5'-AMP. Our results also illustrate that the relation between total cellular cyclic 3'5'-AMP and sodium transport changes over time suggesting a developing r...
Question-Begging Under a Non-Foundational Model of Argument

I find (as others have found) that question-begging is formally valid but rationally unpersuasive. More precisely, itought to be unpersuasive, although it can often persuade. Despite its formal validity, question-begging fails to establish its conclusion; in this sense it fails under a classical or foundationalist model of argument. But it does link its conclusion to its premises by means of acceptable rules of inference; in this sense it succeeds under a non-classical, non-foundationalist model of argument which is spelled out in the essay. However, even for the latter model question-begging fails to link the conclusion to premises that the unconvinced would find more acceptable than the conclusion. The essay includes reflections on the conditions under which the circularity of mutually supporting claims can avoid question-begging and legitimately be persuasive.
Comparative statics at irregular extrema

Abstract This note shows that standard comparative statics techniques, properly reinterpreted, can be used to obtain correct qualitative results for irregular extrema, even though the conditions for application of the Implicit Function Theorem are not satisfied for them.
The effect of total hysterectomy on specific sexual sensations

Objective Assess whether women note a change in aspects of arousal because of removal of the uterus and cervix. Study design Between 1990 and 1992, 105 women were asked to report on their sexual function before and at 3, 8, and 18 months after undergoing a total hysterectomy. Results were analyzed by χ 2 . Results Hysterectomies were abdominal or vaginal, and 42% of subjects had ovaries removed and initiated estrogen replacement. Ease of arousal diminished in 24% and improved in 11%. Intensity of orgasms decreased in 15% and increased in 14%. Effects of nipple stimulation were usually preserved. Sexual satisfaction increased significantly. Seven women noted distinctly worse sexual function. Conclusion An indicated total hysterectomy will likely increase sexual satisfaction and not change the effect of breast stimulation. The few women with disturbingly reduced sexual sensation deserve assessment and treatment.
Closure to “Development of Finite-Element Modeling Approach for Lateral Load Analysis of Dry-Glazed Curtain Walls” by Ali M. Memari, Ali Shirazi, Paul A. Kremer, and Richard A. Behr

Baofeng Huang; Wensheng Lu; and Shiming Chen Ph.D. student, School of Civil Engineering, Tongji Univ., No. 1239, Siping Rd., Shanghai, China 200092 (corresponding author). E-mail: ceowolf@163.com Professor, School of Civil Engineering, Tongji Univ., No. 1239, Siping Rd., Shanghai, China 200092. E-mail: wenshenglu@vip.163.com Professor, School of Civil Engineering, Tongji Univ., No. 1239, Siping Rd., Shanghai, China 200092. E-mail: chensm@tongji.edu.cn
Novel Synthetic (S,S) and (R,R)-Secoisolariciresinol Diglucosides (SDGs) Protect Naked Plasmid and Genomic DNA From Gamma Radiation Damage

Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) is the major lignan in wholegrain flaxseed. However, extraction methods are complex and are associated with low yield and high costs. Using a novel synthetic pathway, our group succeeded in chemically synthesizing SDG (S,S and R,R enantiomers), which faithfully recapitulates the properties of their natural counterparts, possessing strong antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties. This study further extends initial findings by now investigating the DNA-radioprotective properties of the synthetic SDG enantiomers compared to the commercial SDG. DNA radioprotection was assessed by cell-free systems such as: (a) plasmid relaxation assay to determine the extent of the supercoiled (SC) converted to open-circular (OC) plasmid DNA (pBR322) after exposure of the plasmid to gamma radiation; and (b) determining the extent of genomic DNA fragmentation. Exposure of plasmid DNA to 25 Gy of γ radiation resulted in decreased supercoiled form and increased open-circular form,...
Limits of Genetic Control

Control of behavior and specification of structure requires information. In simple cases lower bounds for the minimum amount of control information required can be computed. The amount of information in the genes of humans and related species is estimated (in different ways). By comparing the information available in the genes with the information required by certain structures and behavior patterns it can be decided what the genes can control and what not. Using an estimate derived from the number of nucleotides in DNA, it is shown that the genes cannot control the interconnections between individual neurons in the human brain in all potential complexity. They must be to some degree random or repetitive. Gene estimates derived from Drosophila studies result in lower estimates (104 to 3.5 × 105 bits). A stimulus-response pattern where all different possible response assignments are equally probable requires a minimum of n log2 n/e bits for n pairs. If antigen-antibody formation would satisfy this assumption, then the infonnation would well exceed the total information contained in the genes. Linguistic notions and their denotations may be considered as unconstrained stimulus-response pairs. A language of 4000 words requires about 5 × 104 bits. Hence a language of the complexity of human language cannot be innate.
Factors Affecting the Water Retention of Beef. V. Variation of the Zinc‐Containing Enzymes

SUMMARY A comparative study of the lactic dehydrogenase, glutamic dehydrogenase, carbonic anhydrase, zinc, water-soluble nitrogen, moisture, and protein content of six different muscles from three bovine animals was conducted in an investigation of factors contributing to differences in the ultimate pH values of the muscles. The results indicate that variation was considerable in content of zinc, lactic dehydrogenase, glutamic. dehydrogenase, and carbonic anhydrase. A highly significant direct correlation was found between pH and zinc content, and a highly significant inverse correlation between lactic dehydrogenase and pH. Lactic dehydrogenase significantly correlated with soluble nitrogen content. No relation was found between glutamic dehydrogenase, carbonic anhydrase, and pH.
Ageism: Prejudice Against Our Feared Future Self

For decades, researchers have discovered much about how humans automatically categorize others in social perception. Some categorizations—race, gender, and age—are so automatic that they are termed “primitive categories.” As we categorize, we often develop stereotypes about the categories. Researchers know much about racism and sexism, but comparatively little about prejudicing and stereotyping based on age. The articles in this issue highlight the current empirical and theoretical work by researchers in gerontology, psychology, communication, and related fields on understanding the origins and consequences of stereotyping and prejudicing against older adults. With the aging baby boomer demographic, it is especially timely for researchers to work to understand how society can shed its institutionalized ageism and promote respect for elders.
Proton nuclear magnetic resonance studies of sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes. Correlation of the temperature-dependent Ca2+ efflux with a reversible structural transition

Abstract Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of ATP-dependent Ca2+-accumulating sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles isolated from rabbit leg white muscle show a reversible, temperature dependent structural transition. This transition involves a transformation of the choline methyl groups of lecithin from a rigid to a mobile state. The energy of the transformation is approx. 35 kcal/mole and involves nearly 60% of the lecithin molecules in the membrane. The fraction of mobile methyl groups as a function of temperature correlates with the temperature-dependent Ca2+ efflux measured in these preparations. As determined by nuclear magnetic resonance, other agents which alter protein structure and simultaneously increase Ca2+ efflux also increases the fraction of mobile choline methyl groups. Likewsise, irreversible heat denaturation of the membrane protein alters the temperature dependence of the transition. The proton magnetic resonance spectra are consistent with the organization of approx. 80% of the lipid fatty acid chains into a lamellar phase which permits only limited motion. On the other hand approx. 20% of the lipid molecules are in a fluid region of the membrane in which nearly isotropic motion occurs ( τ c ≈ 10 −10 sec ).
Everolimus and intensive behavioral therapy in an adolescent with tuberous sclerosis complex and severe behavior.

Background Self-injury and aggression have been reported in individuals with TSC (tuberous sclerosis complex), yet few data exist about treatment. Everolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, has been FDA-approved for subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs) and renal angiomyolipomas in TSC. However, clinical use of everolimus with direct, real-time observations of self-injury and aggression in an individual with TSC has not been reported.
The relationship of lesion size to diagnosis, incidence, and treatment of periapical cysts and granulomas

The authors have reviewed the literature relevant to diagnosis, incidence, and treatment of periapical cysts and granulomas. They suggest that lesion size may have a significant influence in all those areas. On the basis of this viewpoint, they suggest alternatives to various commonly held assumptions and potential solutions to a number of controversial issues.
George Bancroft's Civil War: Slavery, Abraham Lincoln, and the Course of History

The Civil War challenged historian George Bancroft's faith in the United States as a beacon of freedom for the world. Interpreting the war as a trial inflicted by God for the purpose of purging slavery from American society, Bancroft took it upon himself to spur Abraham Lincoln toward emancipation.
Generation of porous polymer surfaces by solvent–nonsolvent treatment

A method to generate a porous region near the surface of a polymer is suggested. In this method the region near the surface is swollen by immersing the polymer for a short time in a solvent. Subsequently, the polymer is introduced in a nonsolvent (for the polymer) that is, however, miscible with the solvent. The formation of the porous region is a result of (1) the swelling accompanied by the disentanglement of the surface molecular chains, and the dissolution of some of them during the immersion in the solvent, and (2) the rapid extraction of the solvent from the swollen region by the nonsolvent. The porous surface provides a matrix into which a second incompatible monomer can be polymerized so that the two otherwise incompatible polymers can adhere to one another.
Unimolecular micelles: supramolecular use of dendritic constructs to create versatile molecular containers

Abstract A brief survey of host–guest interactions involving dendritic architectures is presented. Discussion begins with an examination of early examples of branched motifs described as ‘micelle-like’ and progresses through to current investigations of unimolecular micelles and their attendant supramolecular properties. To cite this article: C.N. Moorefield, G.R. Newkome, C. R. Chimie 6 (2003).
Mechanisms of contour curvature discrimination

Visual processing of contour curvature was investigated by measuring increment thresholds for curvatures from 0.31 to 25.4 deg−1. Curvature discrimination was assessed for three classes of stimuli: simple curved contours, high-frequency bandpass-filtered contours, and low-pass-filtered contours. High-frequency bandpass filtering had no effect on discrimination at low curvatures and only a modest effect at high curvatures. In contrast, low-pass filtering caused substantial threshold elevations at all curvatures. Thus the data lead to the surprising conclusion that high-spatial-frequency, orientation-selective mechanisms dominate curvature processing over the entire range of curvatures tested, a conclusion at odds with previous suggestions that large, low-spatial-frequency filters are involved in analyzing low curvatures. The data are explained accurately by a two-process model for curvature extraction: at high curvatures the local-processing model proposed by Wilson [ J. Opt. Soc. Am. A.2, 1191 ( 1985)] fits the data well, whereas at low curvatures orientations are compared at points displaced a fixed distance along the tangent to the curve.
A statistical approach to the problem of multiple radio interference to FM and television service

Since the received fields in the uhf and vhf bands vary ? widely in time and space, it is believed that, on many occasions, a statistical approach to communication problems may be necessary. It is the purpose of this paper to present a statistical analysis of the problem of FM and television service in the presence of multiple sources of interference.
The endocrine control of seasonal reproductive function in the ewe: A marked change in response to the negative feedback action of estradiol on luteinizing hormone secretion

A group of 6 ewes was ovariectomized and treated sc for 20 months with Silastic capsules containing estradiol-17β. Although this treatment maintained serum estradiol concentrations relatively constant at mid-luteal levels (3–5 pg/ml), there was a dramatic seasonal variation in serum LH concentrations. Throughout anestrus, LH levels remained undetectable. At the onset of the breeding season, there was a striking increase in LH concentrations to levels which approached those in untreated ovariectomized ewes. Mean LH concentrations remained high until the beginning of the next anestrous season, when they decreased precipitously to undetectable levels where they remained until the subsequent breeding season. These biannual changes in the negative feedback action of estradiol occurred within 2–3 weeks in each ewe and coincided with the transitions between the breeding season and anestrus in intact ewes. In contrast to the biphasic annual pattern in LH secretion observed in estradiol-treated ovariectomized ewes...
Identification of Active Site Residues of the Tsp Protease

In a search for active-site residues of the Tsp protease, 20 positions were individually mutated to alanine, the mutant strains were assayed for growth defects in vivo, and the purified proteins were assayed for proteolytic activity in vitro. Alanine substitutions at three positions, Ser-430, Asp-441, and Lys-455, result in inactive proteases that have structures and substrate-binding properties similar to wild type, suggesting that the side chains at these positions participate in catalysis. Replacing Ser-430 with cysteine results in a partially active protease, which is inhibited by cysteine-modifying reagents. Replacing Asp-441 with asparagine does not significantly affect activity. However, other residues, including histidine and arginine, cannot functionally replace Lys-455. These data are consistent with a serine-lysine dyad mechanism, similar to those proposed for the LexA-like proteases, the type I signal peptidases, and the class A β-lactamases.
Dynamics of the C2H2 + + ND3 reaction: A vibrational-mode-selective scattering study

The C2H2+ + ND3 reaction has been studied using mode-selective preparation of the C2H2+ reactant in conjunction with measurements of the product ion recoil velocity distributions. The only product ...
High-speed hardware-in-the loop platform for rapid prototyping of power electronics systems

A hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) platform for power electronics is presented, which is based on a real-time circuit simulation algorithm and a high-throughput, low-latency processor architecture implemented in a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). By using a simulation sampling time of 1 µs, including input/output latency, the platform enables the high-fidelity, real-time simulation of power electronics systems. In addition, to realize real-time digital simulation of power electronics systems the HIL platform uses a flexible modeling environment and novel circuit compiler algorithms. The efficacy of the real-time HIL platform is demonstrated via a simulation of a variable speed induction motor drive. The results are compared with those from a real variable speed drive system under steady state operating conditions. The results demonstrate the feasibility of HIL simulation for power electronics energy conversion systems.
Interdisciplinary Critical Inquiry: Teaching about the Social Construction of Madness

Theories and treatments of mental illness reflect the social, philosophical, and historical context in which they developed. This article describes ways to invite students to grapple with complex questions about "madness" from an interdisciplinary perspective. Looking at the construct of madness through multiple lenses (e.g., literature, anthropology, medicine) brings depth and breadth to the study of abnormal psychology. I discuss resources relevant to 6 themes: (a) the construct of mental illness, (b) diagnosis as a form of social control, (c) the role of the psychiatric patient, (d) the search for solutions, (e) madness and popular culture, and (f) contemporary issues in mental health. I also describe pedagogical strategies to encourage reflective thinking and critical inquiry.
Detection thresholds in structural health monitoring

Abstract Most health-monitoring methods for analysis of full-scale structures detect changes in the soil-system response by comparison of the identified response parameters “before” and “after” large excitations. However, because the deformations of the foundation soil, which are almost always present, are nonlinear, and because permanent deformations and changes in the soil depend differently on the excitation histories of different sites, it is difficult at best to (1) make use of classical concepts, which are based on signal-to-noise ratio, and (2) the vibrational description of the response in terms of transfer functions. This situation then necessitates a selection of methods and metrics that detect changes in the system parameters that (1) can be evaluated in almost real-time conditions, and (2) are as insensitive as possible to the contributions to the response of the soil–structure interaction. This, in turn, requires case-by-case, specific, and complex methods of analysis, which can only occasionally be generalized to other buildings and which can also be quite different from one event to the next. In this paper, we present examples of what has been done thus far to avoid the associated complexities for a group of full-scale structures, two of which experienced damaging response during earthquake shaking. In the examples presented, we emphasize those features of the analyses that are related to detection thresholds and to the time- and case-dependent amplitudes of the detection “noise”.
Convergent Synthesis of a Complex Oxime Library Using Chemical Domain Shuffling

[reaction: see text] The synthesis of a complex hybrid oxime library is reported utilizing convergent ligation of alkoxyamine and carbonyl monomers via "chemical domain shuffling". Initial biological screening of the library against human small cell lung carcinoma (A549) cells led to the identification of a novel hybrid dimer in contrast to the corresponding monomeric compounds which were found to be inactive.
Union salting: Reactions and rulings since Town and Country

In a difficult organizing environment, unions have adopted growth strategies including organizing for recognition and bypassing the NLRB election process-a top-down approach. Union salting has become a popular tool toward achieving that goal particularly among the building trades unions. I examine labor’s thrust at the top-down approach toward organizing the workplace using the “salting” strategy, employer reactions to salting, and the pattern of rulings coming from the National Labor Relations Board since the seminal Supreme Court case on salting, NLRB v. Town & Country Electric (1995).
Effects of Acidic Precipitation and Ectomycorrhizal Inoculation on Growth, Mineral Nutrition, and Xylem Water Potential of Juvenile Loblolly Pine and White Oak

Abstract Individual and interactive effects of simulated acidic rainfall and mycorrhizal inoculation on growth and nutrient and water relations of loblolly pine (Pinus taedaL.) and white oak (Quercus albaL.) grown in a loam soil were examined. Seedlings of each species inoculated with basidiospores of the ectomycorrhizal fungus Pisolithus tinctorius(Pers.) Coker and Couch, a known my-cobiont of both loblolly pine and white oak, and uninoculated control seedlings received two simulated rains per week of either pH 3.6, 4.2, or 4.8 for 26 weeks. Higher acidity rainfall reduced the growth but increased mycorrhizal colonization of loblolly pine, while both loblolly pine and white oak exposed to these rains exhibited greater foliar injury. Inoculation with P. tinctoriusincreased growth and reduced foliar injury of both species. Foliar concentrations of P, S, and Cu in loblolly pine and white oak, Ca in loblolly pine, and Fe and Zn in white oak decreased with increasing rain acidity while the Al concentration of...
Effects of simulated clinical fabrication heat treatment and artificial weathering on degree of crystallinity of prosthetics/orthotics polymers monitored by X-ray diffraction

The effects of simulated clinical fabrication heat treatment and artificial weathering on the degree of crystallinity for three prosthetics/orthotics polymers were monitored by wide-angle x-ray diffraction. The polymers selected, polypropylene(PP), Subortholen (polyethylene, SB), and Surlyn (polyethylene methacrylate copolymer, SR), represent commonly used semicrystalline materials. Analysis of the as-received polypropylene showed no preferred orientation of the crystallites. The materials were examined in the as-received and simulated clinical fabrication heat-treated conditions. The simulated clinical fabrication heat-treated specimens were subsequently treated to 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks of artificial weathering conditions. The artificial weathering consisted of exposure to cycles of ultraviolet light and heated condensation. The degree of crystallinity was calculated and correlated with the materials structure, and ranged from 13.7 to 64.5% with an order from low to high of SR < SB < PP. The x-ray diffraction technique was demonstrated to be a useful tool for detecting environmental influences on prosthetics/orthotics polymers. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Ultraviolet Albedo of the Moon with the Hopkins Ultraviolet Telescope

During the 1995 March flight of the Hopkins Ultraviolet Telescope, as part of the Astro-2 Space Shuttle mission, we observed the Moon over the wavelength range 820-1840 A, with a resolution of 3-4 A, finding the ultraviolet albedo of the Moon to be 0.038 ± 0.0038 at 1700 A. We also find a gentle increase in the albedo toward shorter wavelengths. Ultraviolet albedo measurements may represent a useful tool for selenographic exploration.
α-Fetoprotein and Albumin gene expression in brain and other tissues of fetal and adult rats

Abstract Quantitative measurement of messenger RNA (mRNA) for α-fetoprotein (AFP) and albumin in developing rat liver and in different fetal and adult tissues reveals a close correlation between the previously determined rate of protein synthesis and mRNA levels. mRNA for AFP and albumin exists in fetal intestine, lung, liver and kidney whereas there are no such transcripts in fetal brain or heart. There are no mRNA transcripts for AFP in any adult organs other than the liver. The lack of mRNA AFP in fetal brain tissue indicates that the AFP found in fetal brain cells is absorbed from the serum. This finding supports the hypothesis that AFP may serve as a carrier protein to deliver bound molecules, such as non-esterified fatty acids, to brain cells at a specific time during development.
The Internet predicament in the Middle East and North Africa connectivity, access and censorship

Initial enthusiasm for the Internet, by countries in the Middle East and North Africa, has been tempered by extreme caution and ambivalence on the part of government and religious organizations, the concern focusing on those aspects of the Internet which are seen by its enthusiasts as its greatest advantages: complete openness and lack of regulation. Fearing its subversive potential, governments are trying to erect legal and technical barriers limiting its free use. Other factors limiting growth of the Internet include the relative high cost of computer hardware, excessive telecommunication charges in many countries, the dominance of English language and the fairly limited computer literacy in the region. These and other issues are reviewed on a country basis, including: Internet connectivity, services and costs; the Internet subscriber boom in selected Middle East countries; the dominance of English-language materials on the Internet; the problems posed by non-Roman scripts; and control and regulation is...
The “edge effect on nest predation” hypothesis after twenty years

Abstract A majority of empirical tests have failed to support the hypothesis that avian nest predation increases near habitat edges. Of 54 study sites, 13 exhibited an edge effect in any test conducted, 31 did not exhibit one, and 10 exhibited an edge effect in at least one treatment but not in at least one other. Edge type has not generally been supported as an important factor in determining the existence of an edge effect. An edge effect has been exhibited slightly more often in landscapes of high fragmentation ( 75% prey habitat), especially in forest. The few studies containing reliable predator identification have explained their results with species-specific predator behavior and its relation to habitat and landscape features. This may be a more fruitful approach to understanding nest predation dynamics than a focus on habitat edges per se.
Does cadmium exposure reduce the metabolism of ethanol

Abstract It is proposed that persons exposed to elevated levels of cadmium via occupation, diet, or cigarette smoking will exhibit a diminished capability to metabolize ethanol via the action of the zinc dependent enzyme, alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). This follows from the observation that cadmium can replace zinc in liver ADH and inactivate it.
Does the mode of questionnaire administration affect the reporting of urinary symptoms

Abstract Objectives To assess the effect of modes of administration (self-administered questionnaires, oral face-to-face interview, and telephone interview) on responses to the American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUASI) in randomly selected community men. Methods An age-stratified random sample of 475 white male residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, aged 40 to 79 years, without prior prostate surgery or prostate cancer were queried about urinary symptom frequency twice at baseline and twice approximately 2 years later using questions with wording similar to the AUASI. At baseline and first follow-up, questionnaires were self-administered initially, followed by a structured interview by a female urology nurse within 2 to 28 weeks. A subset of 200 randomly selected men received a telephone interview by a female research assistant following the self-administered questionnaire given at a second follow-up approximately 4 years after baseline. Results Mean symptom scores obtained by oral interview were 1 to 2 points lower than those from self-administrated questionnaires ( P Conclusions Values of the AUASI obtained by interviewer administration may be lower than those obtained by self-administered questionnaires. When assessment of change in urinary symptoms over time is of interest, the same standardized method of questionnaire administration should be used at baseline and follow-up evaluations to avoid introducing artifactual differences related to the mode of administration.
Multilegged propagators in strong-coupling expansions

This paper is a continuation of a previous paper on strong-coupling expansions in quantum field theory. We are concerned here with one-dimensional quantum field theories (quantum-mechanical models). Our general approach is to derive graphical rules for constructing the strong-coupling expansion from a Lagrangian path integral in the presence of external sources. After reviewing the normalization of one-dimensional path integrals, we examine in detail the model Hamiltonian H = vertical-barpvertical-bar + vertical-barqvertical-bar. We show that in the strong-coupling expansion the graphs are constructed from multilegged propagators attached to multilegged vertices. We use these graphical rules to calculate the ground-state energy for this Hamiltonian. One motivation for examining expansions involving multilegged propagators is provided by the Lagrangian for quantum chromodynamics whose strong-coupling expansion also involves multilegged propagators.
Somatostatin immunoreactivity is reduced in Parkinson's disease dementia with Alzheimer's changes.

Abstract Somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI) was measured in postmortem brain tissue from 15 control patients, 7 non-demented parkinsonian patients and 7 demented parkinsonian patients who had Alcheimer-type cortical pathology. The non-demented parkinsonian patients had normal concentrations of SLI in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, putamen, caudate or globus pallidus. Demented parkinsonian patients with Alzheimer-type cortical pathology had significantly reduced (approximately 40%) levels of SLI in both the frontal (Brodmann area 6) and temporal (Brodmann area 21) cortex. These findings suggest that parkinsonian dementia with Alzheimer-type pathology like Alzheimer's disease itself, is associated with reduced concentrations of cortical somatostatin.
Object Surface Characterization From Range Images

Recently we have proposed a range image segmentation method based on the equidistance contour map extracted from a range image. An equidistance contour of a range image is formed by pixels on the range image whose corresponding scene points are all at a same specified distance from the sensor. We have observed that in different ways the contours reflect the existence of object surface edges, the geometries of object surfaces, and the orientations of these surfaces in the 3-D space. In this paper we present a method which uses the equidistance contours to further characterize the regions obtained from segmentation. This is an integral part of an object recognition process. The meaning of characterization is to find the geometries of the corresponding 3-D object surfaces of the regions from the contours. If a surface has nice analytic form such as planar, spherical, cylindrical, or conical, we determine not only its type but also the values of the parameters which describe its geometry.
Health Effects of the World Trade Center 9/11 Disaster: An Overview

More than ten years after the September 11, 2001 World Trade Center (WTC) disaster, 9/11 responders and lower Manhattan community residents still suffer from the adverse health consequences of this horrific event. Upper and lower respiratory conditions such as rhinosinusitis and asthma have been found in a significant number of people in WTC-exposed populations. A lack of appropriate respiratory protection may have contributed to these effects. Other commonly observed physical health conditions include gastro-esophageal reflux disease, obstructive sleep apnea and musculoskeletal injuries. Many WTC-exposed individuals also suffer from mental health conditions, primarily post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, panic disorder, and substantial stress reaction. Recent studies suggest that WTC exposure may increase the risk of cancer and of mortality from cardiac disease. Further research should be conducted to fully understand the impact of the WTC disaster on the health of these populations.
Features of Family Planning and STD Clinics Preferred by Adolescent Female

Background A majority of morbidity among adolescent females stem from sexual involvement. Yet, many at-risk adolescents are not using family planning (FP) or SID services. This study was undertaken to determine characteristics of FP or STD services that may enhance or deter use by adolescent females. Methods Using a standardized questionnaire, 114 adolescent females (15.6 ± 1.4 y.o.; 70% B, 30% W) were interviewed during their initial visit to adolescent clinics serving high risk urban teens. The questionnaire contained 13 items describing specific features of a clinic: costs (2 items: free, a small fee), type of clients served (2 items: teens only, females only), characteristics of services provided (3 items: confidential, comprehensive, same provider), location (5 items) and evening hours (l item); responded on a 4-point Likert scale (1-like very much; 2-like somewhat; 3-does not matter at all; 4-would not like it). Results 44% had a past Hx of treatment for an STD, 62% had been screened for HIV, 23% were dropped out of school, and 36% had been pregnant at least once. 75% reported to be in a “steady relationship”. In last one year, 41% did not have any type of medical care or medical check-up and 31% were seen an ER. 64% reported no current contraceptive use although 54% had used pills and 21% had used Depo-Provera in past. Strongly endorsed (by over 80%) clinic features were confidential service, served by a same provider and free services. A clinic serving teens exclusively was favored by those who have never been pregnant (p Conclusion This study delineates features of STD and FP services preferred or disliked by high risk adolescent females. These findings have implication in planning preventive and screening services for specific groups of high risk adolescents.
Hemodynamic Effects of Nebulized Nitroprusside and Inhaled Nitric Oxide on Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction

Hemodynamic Effects of Nebulized Nitroprusside and Inhaled Nitric Oxide on Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction
Instabilities in a hybrid bistable system without delayed feedback

Abstract We show that a hybrid bistable system can display oscillatory or even chaotic behavior when an amplifier is introduced in the feedback loop, despite the absence of a delay. We study the effects of bias and the amplifier's gain and bandwidth on the dynamics of the system.
Self-reported quality of life in users and nonusers of dietary supplements in cancer.

Goals of work To describe the Quality of Life (QoL) characteristics of users of dietary supplements vs nonusers.
Nanofabrication of 1-D photonic bandgap structures along a photonic wire

A strongly-guided one-dimensional (1-D) waveguide called a photonic wire has high spontaneous emission coupling efficiency, enabling one to realize low-threshold lasers. Combined with the use of 1-D photonic bandgap structures consisting of arrays of holes etched within the photonic wire, novel microcavity lasers can be realized. We report the nanofabrication of a photonic bandgap structure for 1.5 /spl mu/m wavelength along a InGaAsP photonic wire, and discuss numerical simulations for its electrodynamics.
Agonists for the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α and the retinoid X receptor inhibit inflammatory responses of microglia

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha) plays a key role in lipid metabolism and inflammation. Recently, we demonstrated that administration of the PPAR-alpha agonists gemfibrozil and fenofibrate, inhibit the clinical signs of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS). In the present study we investigated the effects of PPAR-alpha agonists on primary mouse microglia, a cell type implicated in the pathology of MS and EAE. Our studies demonstrated that the PPAR-alpha agonists ciprofibrate, fenofibrate, gemfibrozil, and WY 14,643 each inhibited NO production by cytokine-stimulated microglia in a dose-dependent manner. However, fenofibrate and WY 14,643 were more potent inhibitors than gemfibrozil and ciprofibrate. In LPS-stimulated microglia, only fenofibrate and WY 14,643 significantly suppressed NO production. Additionally, PPAR-alpha agonists inhibited the secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-12 p40 and the chemokine MCP-1 by LPS-stimulated microglia. Retinoid X receptors (RXRs) physically interact with PPAR-alpha receptors, and the resulting heterodimers regulate the expression of PPAR-responsive genes. Interestingly, the RXR agonist 9-cis retinoic acid (9-cis RA) inhibited NO production by LPS-stimulated microglia. Furthermore, a combination of 9-cis RA and the PPAR-alpha agonist fenofibrate cooperatively inhibited NO production by these cells. A combination of these agonists also selectively inhibited the expression of proinflammatory cytokines including IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 by LPS-stimulated microglia. Collectively, these results raise the possibility that PPAR-alpha and RXR agonists might have benefit as a therapy in MS, where activated microglia are believed to contribute to disease pathology.
Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Scar Development Following Pulmonary Vein Isolation: A Prospective Study

Aims: Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (MR) provides non-invasive assessment of early (24-hour) edema and injury following pulmonary vein isolation (by ablation) and subsequent scar formation. We hypothesize that 24-hours after ablation, cardiovascular MR would demonstrate a pattern of edema and injury due to ablation and the severity would correlate with subsequent scar. Methods: Fifteen atrial fibrillation patients underwent cardiovascular MR prior to pulmonary vein isolation, 24-hours post (N=11) and 30-days post (N=7) ablation, with T2-weighted (T2W) and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) imaging. Left atrial wall thickness, edema enhancement ratio and LGE enhancement were assessed at each time point. Volumes of LGE and edema enhancement were measured, and the circumferential presence of injury was assessed at 24-hours, including comparison with LGE enhancement at 30 days. Results: Left atrial wall thickness was increased 24-hours post-ablation (10.764.1 mm vs. 7.061.8 mm pre-PVI, p,0.05). T2W enhancement at 24-hours showed increased edema enhancement ratio (1.560.4 for post-ablation, vs. 0.960.2 preablation, p,0.001). Edema and LGE volumes at 24-hours were correlated with 30-day LGE volume (R=0.76, p=0.04, and R=0.74, p=0.09, respectively). Using a 16 segment model for assessment, 24-hour T2W had sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 82%, 63%, and 79% respectively, for predicting 30-day LGE. 24-hour LGE had sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 91%, 47%, and 84%. Conclusions: Increased left atrial wall thickening and edema were characterized on cardiovascular MR early post-ablation, and found to correlate with 30-day LGE scar.
Great Bahama Canyon

Recent surveys and sampling of the V-shaped canyon that cuts into parts of the broad troughs separating the Bahama Banks have given a greatly improved picture of this gigantic valley and the processes operating to shape it. The canyon has two major branches, one following Northwest Providence Channel and the other the Tongue of the Ocean, which join 15 mi north of New Providence Island, and continue seaward as a submarine canyon with walls almost 3 mi high. These, so far as we know, are the world9s highest canyon walls (either submarine or subaerial), and the canyon length, including the branch in Northwest Providence Channel, is at least 150 mi, exceeded only by two submarine canyons in the Bering Sea. Bottom photographs from the outer portions of Northwest Branch and Tongue Branch show wall rock, rounded cobbles, and boulders along their axes, as well as ripple-marked sand to indicate the importance of currents moving along the canyon floor. Further evidence that erosion has at least kept the valleys open as the Bahama Banks grew comes from the winding courses and the numerous tributaries that descend the walls from the shallow Banks, particularly on the south side of Northwest Branch. The possibility that limestone solution has been important comes from the finding of more depressions along Northwest Branch than in other submarine canyons of the world, and the discovery of caverns along the walls by observers during deep dives into Tongue Branch in the Alvin and Aluminaut. It seems to us highly probable that the modern canyons are due primarily to submarine erosion, partly re-excavating old filled troughs.
Negotiating Courtship Reconciling Egalitarian Ideals with Traditional Gender Norms

Traditional courtship norms delineate distinct gendered behaviors for men and women based on the model of a dominant, breadwinning male and a passive, dependent female. Previous research shows, however, that as women have increased their access to earned income, there has been a rising ideological and behavioral commitment to egalitarian relationships. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 38 college-educated women, this article explores how women negotiate these seemingly contradictory beliefs in order to understand how and why gendered courtship conventions persist even as heterosexual romantic relationships become more egalitarian. My findings show that while the women reference essentialist beliefs about men’s “nature” to explain their commitment to courtship conventions, they draw on narratives of choice, individualism, and personal autonomy to assert that the symbolic gendering of courtship will not interfere with their desire for an egalitarian marriage. However, women’s behaviors and narratives rein...