cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The homeodomain transcription factor Pitx3 facilitates differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells into AHD2-expressing dopaminergic neurons

The A9 dopaminergic (DA) neuronal group projecting to the dorsal striatum is the most vulnerable in Parkinson's disease (PD). We genetically engineered mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells to express the transcription factors Nurr1 or Pitx3. After in vitro differentiation of Pitx3-expressing ES cells, the proportion of DA neurons expressing aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (AHD2) increased, while the total number of DA neurons remained the same. The highest levels of AHD2 expression were observed in mouse A9 DA neurons projecting to the dorsal striatum. Furthermore, real-time PCR analyses of in vitro differentiated Pitx3-expressing ES cells revealed that genes highly expressed in A9 DA neurons were up-regulated. When transplanted into the mouse striatum, Pitx3-expressing cells generated an increased proportion of AHD2-expressing DA neurons. Contrastingly, in Nurr1-expressing ES cells, increases of all midbrain DA markers were observed, resulting in a higher total number of DA neurons in vitro and in vivo, whereas the proportion of AHD2-expressing DA neurons was not changed. Our data, using gain-of-function analysis of ES cells, suggest that Pitx3 may be important for specification and/or maintenance of A9-like neuronal properties, while Nurr1 influences overall midbrain DA specification. These findings may be important for modifying ES cells to generate an optimal cell source for transplantation therapy of PD.
A developmental conceptualization of clinical problem solving

A taxonomy for assessing clinician development in three areas of problem solving based upon cognitive learning theory (Shapiro & Moses, 1989) was applied to the analysis of videotaped clinical sessions involving three student clinicians. The purpose was to evaluate, from a developmental perspective, the clinical performance of clinicians rated by their supervisors as performing at different skill levels. Three developmental profiles in three domains of problem solving (perspective taking, variables considered, and solutions generated during clinical problem solving) were derived from these analyses. The results supported the application of a developmental conceptualization to the assessment and facilitation of problem-solving skills in the professional preparation of speech-language pathologists.
Upholding Legal Rights

Law and order are essential to the preservation of any society and to the well-being of every citizen, but in the United States today there is a crisis of lawlessness and disorder. Every newspaper and television set daily reports criminal acts ranging from mugging to murder, from robbery to rape. Our vastly overworked police, overtaxed courts, and overcrowded jails cannot contain the criminal or hold down the rising crime rate. The personal and property rights of the American citizen are everywhere in danger.
Chloride-Induced Localized Corrosion of Fe3Al-Type Iron Aluminides: Beneficial Effects of Cr And Mo Additions

In this study, an acid-chloride electrolyte at pH = 4 (H2SO4) and containing 200 ppm Cl- was used to define the effects of Cr concentration (0-6 at.°) and Mo additions (0-2 at.°) on the aqueous corrosion behavior of iron aluminides containing 28 at.% Al. For the Fe-28Al composition, cyclic-anodic-polarization testing indicated passivation, but with a relatively low breakdown potential for pitting corrosion, and a protection potential lower than the open-circuit corrosion potential. Cr additions alone proved beneficial by continuously increasing the pitting potential. However, even at the highest Cr level, 6°, the protection potential was still lower than the corrosion potential, indicating that pitting could initiate after an incubation period. Mo additions were found to raise the protection potential, such that at 1 and 2° Mo levels (4 ° Cr), it was higher than the corrosion potential, indicating significantly improved resistance to the initiation of localized corrosion. Immersion testing showed that the latter compositions remained passivated with no localized corrosion for a period of four months, at which point the tests were terminated. The overall results indicated that for satisfactory resistance to chlorideinduced localized corrosion, both higher Cr levels (4-6 at.°) and Mo additions (1-2 at.°) are desirable.
Interaction of tryptophan transfer RNA with Rous sarcoma virus 35S RNA.

THE primer for the initiation of DNA synthesis by the RNA-directed DNA polymerase (reverse transcriptase) on Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) 70S RNA has been identified as tryptophan tRNA1,2. The RNA primer hybridises efficiently to 35S RNA subunits produced by denaturation of 70S RNA from RSV3 or avian myeloblastosis virus (AMV)4; these template–primer complexes are active in the initiation of DNA synthesis by reverse transcriptase3–5.
Alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use prevention programs in U.S. schools: a descriptive summary.

This report identifies the prevalence of state, local, and commercially developed substance abuse prevention programs in middle and high schools from 2001 to 2007, using survey data from nationally representative samples of 1,206 schools. Based on school administrators’ reports, schools and school districts offer students an average of 1.62 prevention programs during their school years from elementary through high school. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were conducted with school demographic characteristics public versus private, size, population density, region of the country, school race/ethnic composition, and socioeconomic status of the student body (SES) as predictors of total number of programs that students received and of the relative use of local, state, and commercial programs. Schools in the West had significantly fewer prevention programs than those in other regions of the country. Students in predominantly White and in higher SES schools received significantly more prevention programs than students in majority African American, majority Hispanic, or in lower SES affluent schools. The most frequently reported programs that students received were locally developed. D.A.R.E. was the most widely adopted prevention program. Findings from this study suggest that schools often develop their own curriculum to suit their students’ needs, and students are exposed to multiple prevention programs through their school years, making it difficult to examine the effectiveness of any single program in preventing and reducing substance use among students.
Comparison between late-presenting and isolated neonatal congenital diaphragmatic hernias.

Purpose: Late-presenting posterolateral congenital diaphragmatic hernias (CDH) are anatomically similar to isolated neonatal CDH but are diagnosed and treated after the first month of life. We aim to characterise the clinical manifestations and short-term postoperative course of this entity and compare it with isolated CDH of the neonatal period. Materials and Methods: In the 30-year period from 1980 to 2010, 116 children with CDH were treated at the Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece. Twenty-three (19%) of these children were late-presenting cases, being diagnosed between the ages of 1 month and 4 years. Ninety-three were neonatal cases, of whom 22 (24%) were excluded due to severe associated anomalies, leaving 71 cases of isolated neonatal CDH. We compared these two groups of patients with regard to preoperative symptoms, postoperative hospital stay, time to complete feeding, overall complication rate, and reoperation rate. Results: Isolated neonatal cases presented more often with acute respiratory symptoms ( n =25; P = 0.016) and failure to thrive ( n = 38; P = 0.03). Late-presenting cases presented more often with chronic respiratory symptoms ( n =14; P = 0.0044) or gastrointestinal symptoms ( n =12; P = 0.006). Thirty-five cases with minor or serious complications were reported in the neonatal group, whereas only five complications were observed in the late-presenting group ( P = 0.028). We did not record any recurrences or reoperations in the late-presenting group, but we had two recurrences and three reoperations in the neonatal group. Time to full feeds and postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the late-presenting group. Conclusions: Our data demonstrate differences between the two groups in preoperative symptoms and short-term postoperative complications and short-term outcome. Late-presenting cases of CDH had a greater number of chronic symptoms preoperatively, more favorable postoperative outcomes, and less recurrences and reoperations.
Microbiological studies of air in the operating room

Abstract Contamination of operating room air by bacterial organisms fluctuates in direct relationship to human activity in a given operating room. In a three-year study period, an overall clean wound infection rate of 3.14% occurred. Air contamination in operating rooms varied between 1.5 and 18.3 microorganisms per cubic foot, depending on the human activity present. The peak incidence of microorganisms in the air of our operating rooms was between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. There was a precipitous rise of organisms as personnel began activity, and a rapid drop in afternoon hours as personnel activity diminished. Concentrations of pathogenic organisms in the air of operating rooms is small, but their presence is without question. Airborne pathogens can and do contaminate and occasionally infect the clean surgical wound. Traffic control in operating rooms appears to be a valid recommendation based on this study.
A view from Riggs: introduction to paper II "Treatment resistance and patient authority".

Periodically I do a call-in radio show on local public radio. Anonymous individuals call in to ask a psychiatrist questions about psychiatric diagnosis, medications, psychotherapy, stigma, suicide, and other issues, and I endeavor to connect briefly with them, acknowledge their struggles, and then offer a brief commentary in response, always noting I cannot offer treatment advice based on such a brief encounter. Recently I received a particularly compelling call. “Bob” reported, his voice communicating vulnerability and sadness, that he was a victim of clergy abuse who had struggled for years with depression and other symptoms. The church had accepted his claim of abuse and was now helping him receive treatment. Bob’s concern was that, apparently for financial reasons, church officials were pressuring him to use medications rather than psychotherapy in his treatment. He wondered if I had any advice about how to speak to church officials about his sense he needed therapy and his reluctance to take medications. Bob then added, painfully, that the pattern of his abuse had included substances being forced on him by his abuser. I responded to Bob that I could hear in his voice how hard it was to speak about this. Although I could not weigh in on his particular treatment needs, it was true that medications were often used with benefit in such situations. However, I could also appreciate the way he must experience pressure from the church to take medications as a repetition of the trauma. Unwittingly, the church, in its effort to take responsibility for the improper actions of one of its agents, was repeating the problem and becoming the abuser by forcing him to take drugs and submit to their desire. I suggested he be frank with them about this repetition, and also suggested he give them a copy of Nemeroff’s paper (Nemeroff et al., 2003) suggesting that chronically depressed individuals with trauma histories responded better to psychotherapy than to medications. Bob’s story illustrates the way abuse can be transmitted and re–created in moving from one situation to another, despite the best of inten
Fluorescence and NMR binding studies of N-aryl-N'-(9-methylanthryl)diaza-18-crown-6 derivatives.

N-Aryl-N‘-(9-methylanthryl)diaza-18-crown-6 derivatives perform as fluorescent photoinduced electron-transfer (PET) sensors with very selective response toward Ca2+ versus Mg2+, Na+, and K+. The fluorescence intensity was increased by a factor of up to 170 in the presence of Ca(ClO4)2. 1H NMR studies show that metal cations affect these molecules very differently: Ca2+ has a global effect on each molecule, while Mg2+ affects part of each molecule, and K+ and Na+ affect each molecule moderately, which is very consistent with the fluorescence response.
Validation of ALSIM1 (Level 2) under Michigan conditions

Abstract The performance of the alfalfa crop growth model ALSIM1 (Level 2) is tested under Michigan conditions. Simulated yield data are compared to (a) weekly topgrowth plot data collected over a 2-year period for 1-, 2- and 3-cutting systems and (b) harvest yield data for a four-cut system collected over a 5-year period. Results of parametric (regression) and non-parametric (Kolmogorov-Smirnov) testing indicate that the model is a reliable predictor of alfalfa harvested yields and of early-season topgrowth along the plant growth curve but that simulated regrowth for late season cuttings is less accurate.
The effects of tesamorelin on phosphocreatine recovery in obese subjects with reduced GH.

Context: Few studies have assessed the relationship between GH and mitochondrial function. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the effects of improving IGF-I using a GHRH analog, tesamorelin, on mitochondrial function assessed by phosphocreatine (PCr) recovery using 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy in obese adults with reduced GH. Design: A total of 39 obese men and women with reduced GH secretion as determined by GHRH-arginine stimulation tests underwent magnetic resonance spectroscopy as part of a 12-month, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial comparing tesamorelin vs placebo. PCr recovery after submaximal exercise was assessed at baseline and at 12 months. Results: At baseline, there were no differences in age, sex, race/ethnicity, and GH or PCr parameters between tesamorelin and placebo. After 12 months, tesamorelin treatment led to a significantly greater increase in IGF-I than did placebo treatment (change, 102.9 ± 31.8 μg/L vs 22.8 ± 8.9 μg/L, tesamorelin vs pla...
Current distributions in the quantum Hall effect.

The spatial distribution of the current and electron density is calculated for an ideal two-dimensional Hartree quantum Hall device in which the electron interactions are treated in the Hartree approximation. The calculations are based on an equilibrium-thermodynamics approach in which a constant current is imposed as a constraint on the system. As a consequence of the two-dimensional nature of the Coulomb interactions, there are large inhomogeneities in the electron-density and current distributions. The net current is found to be due principally to a redistribution of charges at the edges of the sample, while currents flowing in the bulk of the sample play only a minor role. The fact that a few inhomogeneously distributed states carry large currents gives a qualitative explanation for the spatial inhomogeneity and the low total current observed at the breakdown of the dissipationless quantum Hall effect.
Tracking signal subspace invariance for blind separation and classification of nonorthogonal sources in correlated noise

We investigate a new approach for the problem of source separation in correlated multichannel signal and noise environments. The framework targets the specific case when nonstationary correlated signal sources contaminated by additive correlated noise impinge on an array of sensors. Existing techniques targeting this problem usually assume signal sources to be independent, and the contaminating noise to be spatially and temporally white, thus enabling orthogonal signal and noise subspaces to be separated using conventional eigendecomposition. In our context, we propose a solution to the problem when the sources are nonorthogonal, and the noise is correlated with an unknown temporal and spatial covariance. The approach is based on projecting the observations onto a nested set of multiresolution spaces prior to eigendecomposition. An inherent invariance property of the signal subspace is observed in a subset of the multiresolution spaces that depends on the degree of approximation expressed by the orthogonal basis. This feature, among others revealed by the algorithm, is eventually used to separate the signal sources in the context of "best basis" selection. The technique shows robustness to source nonstationarities as well as anisotropic properties of the unknown signal propagation medium under no constraints on the array design, and with minimal assumptions about the underlying signal and noise processes. We illustrate the high performance of the technique on simulated and experimental multi-channel neurophysiological data measurements.
A filter assay for the corticosteroid binding globulin of human serum.

A filter assay for corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG or transcortin) in human serum was developed using DEAE-cellulose filter paper discs to bind the [3H]-cortisol-CBG complex. The CBG binding capacity is determined by incubating diluted serum samples with a saturating concentration of [3H]-cortisol in the presence and absence of 100-fold molar excess of radioinert cortisol and quantitating the amount of [3H]-cortisol remaining specifically bound to the filter. After washing filters with buffer to remove unbound and non-specifically bound (albumin bound) steroid, 82% of this complex is retained on the filter. The specificity of this assay is demonstrated by the ability of various steroids, known to bind to CBG, to compete for [3H]-cortisol. Endogenous steroids, which would otherwise dilute the specific activity of the [3H]-cortisol, are removed from the undiluted serum by charcoal treatment (50 mg/ml serum). The assay is linear with serum dilutions of 1:20 or greater. The procedure is particularly useful at high serum dilutions where the sensitivity depends only upon the specific radioactivity of the steroid. The calculated concentrations of CBG in serum from men and pregnant and non-pregnant women are 37 mg/1, 70 mg/1 and 37 mg/1, respectively; these values agree with those reported in the literature obtained by other methods. The equilibrium association constant of the cortisol-CBG complex as determined by the filter assay is 3.5 ± 0.3 × 10−9M−1 at 4°C which is slightly higher than the reported values determined by equilibrium dialysis. This new method is reproducible (CV 2.0–4.9%), rapid, accurate, and requires less than 0.5 ml serum. The procedure is not only useful for clinical investigation, but also for biochemical characterization of the protein.
Physical and Functional Interactions Between the KCNQ1 and KCNE1 C-Terminal Domains

KCNE1 is a regulatory subunit that associates with pore-forming subunits of KCNQ1 to form a channel complex that carries the slowly activating delayed rectifier current, IKs. Interactions between the transmembrane regions of KCNE1 and KCNQ1 S6 control activation kinetics of IKs, while interactions between the intracellular C-termini of the two subunits may dictate deactivation kinetics. Numerous Long QT Syndrome mutations occur in the C-termini of KCNQ1 and KCNE1, indicating the functional importance of these regions. We have located the proximal third of the KCNQ1 C-terminus (KCNQ1-CT) as a site of direct interaction with the KCNE1 C-terminus (KCNE1-CT) via co-immunoprecipitation studies, in vitro pull-down assays and Surface Plasmon Resonance analyses of purified recombinant proteins. Electrophysiological studies employing co-expressed soluble KCNE1-CT with full length KCNQ1 now provide functional evidence that support the physical association findings. When KCNE1-CT is co-expressed with KCNQ1 in CHO cells and analyzed by whole-cell patch clamp, deactivation kinetics of the KCNQ1 current are accelerated. Similarly, deactivation of IKs is accelerated by co-expressing KCNE1-CT with KCNQ1 and full-length KCNE1. KCNE1-CT also shifts the voltage dependence of activation of KCNQ1 current but not IKs current, and has no significant effect on activation kinetics of either current. Thus, excess soluble KCNE1-CT is capable of interacting with KCNQ1 and can perturb the KCNQ1/KCNE1-C-terminal interactions determining deactivation rates of IKs. Work in the laboratory now focuses on identifying the interacting residues of the KCNQ1 and KCNE1 C-termini. Preliminary experiments using Hydrogen-Deuterium Exchange coupled to Mass Spectrometry show that deuterium incorporation into purified KCNE1-CT is slowed by the addition of KCNQ1-CT, implying that binding between the two peptides protect certain residues of KCNE1-CT from being deuterated. Further experiments will work towards delineating the precise structural nature of this interaction.
Pressure drop caused by flow area changes in capillaries under low flow conditions

Abstract Single-phase and two-phase flow pressure drops caused by flow area expansion and contraction were measured using air and water. The test section consisted of two capillaries with 0.84 mm and 1.6 mm diameters. For single-phase flow, the Reynolds numbers defined based on the smaller diameter capillary covered the range 160–11,000. For two-phase flow, the all-liquid Reynolds number based on the smaller capillary varied in the 410–1020 range, and the flow quality varied in the 0.018–0.2 range. The single-phase flow loss coefficients for both flow area expansion and contraction were empirically correlated. For two-phase flow, the data indicated the occurrence of significant velocity slip, and the one-dimensional homogeneous flow model utterly disagreed with the data. For flow area expansion the one-dimensional slip flow model along with an Armand-type slip ratio correlation could predict the data well. For flow area contraction, the one-dimensional slip flow model along with the slip ratio expression of Zivi agreed with the data very well, provided that no vena-contracta was considered.
Tetrakis(salicylaldehydato)zirconium(IV) - A useful synthetic intermediate to zirconium schiff base complexes such as bis(N,N′-disalicylidene-1,2-phenylenediamine)zirconium(IV)

Abstract The new, easily prepared tetrakis(salicylaldehydato)zirconium(IV) chelate can be utilized to avoid the problem of low Schiff base solubility and incomplete substitution in the synthesis of completely chelated zirconium Schiff base complexes, such as bis(N,N′-disalicylidene-1,2-phenylenediamine).
Generation Of Ultrashort CO 2 Pulses By Free-Induction Decay In KCl:KReO 4

The generation of ultrashort CO2 pulses by optical free-induction decay in KCl:KReO4 is described. Here the narrow v3 vibrational mode is coincident with the 10.6 μm, P(26) laser line. For instantaneous shuttering of the incident laser beam, pulses in the picosecond range may be produced by this material. In practice, the minimum pulse length and pulse intensity were severely limited by the breakdown time of the nitrogen plasma cell.
Patterns of surveillance imaging after nephrectomy in the Medicare population.

Objectives To characterize patterns of imaging surveillance after nephrectomy in a population-based cohort of older patients with kidney cancer. Patients and Methods Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare database, we identified patients aged ≥66 years who underwent partial or radical nephrectomy for localized kidney cancer diagnosed between 2000 and 2009. Primary outcomes were chest imaging (X-ray or computed tomography [CT]) and abdominal imaging (CT, MRI or ultrasonography) in Medicare claims from 4 to 36 months after surgery. We estimated the frequency of imaging in three time periods (postoperative months 4–12, 13–24, 25–36), stratified by tumour stage. Repeated-measures logistic regression was used to identify the patient and disease characteristics associated with imaging. Results Rates of chest imaging were 65–80%, with chest X-ray surpassing CT in each time period. Rates of abdominal imaging were 58–76%, and cross-sectional imaging was more common than ultrasonography in each time period. Use of cross-sectional chest and abdominal imaging increased over time, while the use of chest X-ray decreased (P < 0.01). Ultrasonography use remained stable for patients with T1 and T2 disease, but the rate of use decreased in patients with T3 disease (P < 0.05). Rates of chest and abdominal imaging increased with tumour stage (P < 0.001). Conclusions Patterns of imaging suggest possible overuse in patients at low risk of recurrence and underuse in those at greater risk. New surveillance imaging guidelines may reduce unwarranted variability and promote risk-based, cost-effective management after nephrectomy.
Some Relationships between BLUEs, WLSEs and SLSEs

Abstract In the linear model Y = Xβ + e, with arbitrary covariance matrix V, relationships between SLSEs, WLSEs and BLUEs are developed. An explicit new expression for BLUEs in terms of WLSEs and eigenvectors of V associated with positive eigenvalues is presented. Reduction of WLSEs to SLSEs and BLUEs to WLSEs is also considered. This varies from Zyskind's work primarily by stressing positive eigenvalues. The same concentration on positive eigenvalues leads to a refinement of conditions under which m′Y is a BLUE.
Vapor volume profiles in developing two-phase flow

Abstract Transverse void fraction distributions and axial, cross-sectional average void fraction data have been obtained for a rectangular flow channel at elevated pressures employing the γ-attenuation technique. The ability of several cross-sectional models and correlations to predict the axial, average void distributions has also been tested. The development of void profiles in both the axial and transverse directions in a flowing two-phase system is of current interest.
Analog Computer Systems in Blending Processes

Analog computers especially engineered to program and control specific blending processes, are establishing themselves as practical solutions to scores of industrial blending problems. They reduce production costs, eliminate raw material waste and mulitply product output many times over. An important consideration is that non-technical personnel can be quickly trained to a high degree of operational proficiency.
Development of cholinergic amacrine cells is visual activity-dependent in the postnatal mouse retina

In the present study, we used immunocytochemistry to study the temporal and spatial arrangement of mouse cholinergic amacrine cells during postnatal retinal development under normal light/dark cycles and during visual deprivation. Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)-immunolabeled cells were detected in the neuroblastic layer (NBL) and in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) at postnatal day 0 (P0). Between P3–5, two characteristic cholinergic bands were clearly identified in the inner plexiform layer (IPL). The signal intensity of somas and processes progressively increased over the first 2 postnatal weeks. Around eye opening at P12, cholinergic neurons were mature-like. This early developmental process was not altered by visual deprivation. After eye opening, the space between the two cholinergic bands increased continuously and the spatial regularity index changed constantly, indicating that the cholinergic neurons possibly underwent refinement during later postnatal development. The changes occurring following eye opening were retarded by visual deprivation. The morphologies of photoreceptors, horizontal cells, recoverin-positive OFF-cone bipolar cells, rod bipolar cells, dopaminergic amacrine cells, and Muller cells appeared normal. Their stratification in the outer plexiform layer (OPL) and the IPL was not affected by visual deprivation. However, glial cells grew vertically across the entire thickness of dark-reared retinas. Our results suggest that the development of cholinergic neurons before eye opening is independent of the lighting conditions. Their development after eye opening is greatly impeded by visual deprivation. This visual activity-dependent phase of development may be a critical period for the maturation and synaptic wiring of cholinergic amacrine cells in the mammalian retina. J. Comp. Neurol. 484:331–343, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
VOTERS AND ROLL CALL VOTING: The Effect on Congressional Elections

The subject of this research is whether ideological preferences play a major role in explaining voters' refusal to reelect some members of the U.S. House of Representatives. If ideological control is important, one would expect to find a large difference between the voting record of a rejected incumbent and his or her replacement. In distinction, whenever voters must replace a congressman or congresswoman because that person had died in office or chose to run for higher office, the hypothesis of ideological tracking implies that the newly elected member of Congress will resemble his or her predecessor. The data confirm these hypotheses and show, as well, that ideological control exists within parties and not only between them; that the degree of voters' ideological control is as great over senior congressmen and congresswomen as over junior ones; and that voters' concern about ideology has increased over the last two decades.
Comparative heat stability of blood catalase

Abstract The thermal stability of the catalase in whole blood lysates of a variety of mammalian species has been measured. A total of 26 varieties of mammal has been examined, and the T 50 (temperature at which 50% of the activity is lost under the conditions employed) varies from as low as 48.1 ° to as high as 67.1 °. The T 50 is in no way correlated with the absolute level of catalase activity. Thermal stability curves, and hence T 50 values, are sharply reproducible for individuals of a given species regardless of sex or age. Various species within a given genus tend to have similar T 50 values. Various genera, even within a single family, however, might vary widely in T 50 . In the laboratory mouse, a mutation in a structural gene, which has been shown elsewhere to produce a new molecular modification of the catalase, shows a T 50 which is significantly different from that of the catalase of the original, nonmutant strain.
Laser Ablation and the Production of Polymer Films

The formation of high-quality thin films of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is important in many applications ranging from material reinforcement to molecular electronics. Laser ablation, a technique widely used to deposit a variety of inorganic materials, can also be used as a simple and highly versatile method for forming thin polymer films. The data presented show that PTFE films can be produced on various supports by the evaporation of a solid PTFE target with a pulsed ultraviolet laser. The composition of the ablation plume suggests that PTFE ablation and subsequent film formation occur by way of a laser-induced pyrolitic decomposition with subsequent repolymerization. The polymer films produced by this method are composed of amorphous and highly crystalline regions, the latter being predominantly in a chain-folded configuration with the molecular axis aligned parallel to the substrate surface.
A new class of decentralized filters for interconnected systems

A filter is derived for interconnected dynamical systems in which the information pattern is decentralized. Qualitative aspects of the filter's performance are given in terms of an observability condition, and quantitative performance data are generated for the case of state estimation in a two-area power system.
The effects of two years of mestranol treatment on carbohydrate metabolism.

Abstract Twenty-nine menstrual age women who had a hysterectomy and oophorectomy were treated cyclically with 80 μg of mestranol per day for 2 yr. Their carbohydrate metabolism was evaluated prospectively by doing a 3 hr oral glucose olerance test after a 100 g glucose load and measuring both blood glucose and plasma insulin levels. The tests were performed before drug treatment and after 2 yr of drug use. Those women that had a “normal” predrug test had some carbohydrate metabolism changes at the 2 yr test with significant elevations of the fasting, 1 and 2 hr blood glucose values, and also significant elevations of the 2 and 3 hr plasma insulin values. Those women with a “borderline abnormal” predrug test had no significant change in either parameter of carbohydrate metabolism however a trend toward similar changes was noted.
Thinking outside the Embryo: The Superorganism as a Model for EvoDevo Studies

Traditional model systems such as fly, mouse, and chick have formed the foundation of the EvoDevo research program. These animal systems have provided a wealth of information on the patterns and mechanisms of developmental change over large phylogenetic scales. However, the almost exclusive focus on individual embryos as model organisms has also limited the field’s ability to address the central roles that natural selection and life history adaptation play in the evolution of developmental systems. Likewise, focus on this small set of “unitary” model organisms may also constrain the explanatory reach and theoretical robustness of EvoDevo if we consider that many core developmental processes like homeostatic regulation, ontogenetic differentiation, and norms of reaction are also manifest at other levels of biological organization, such as colonial organisms. The study of social insect systems can help bridge these considerable gaps in EvoDevo’s current approach. Because social insect colonies span the fine line between simple associations of “unitary” organisms and full-fledged “superorganisms,” these systems help elucidate what kinds of processes fundamentally characterize developmental systems and their evolution. What is more, the traits of social insect colonies show high degrees of population-level variability that can be linked directly to selective factors in the environment, making them ideal systems in which to more fully integrate EcoEvoDevo approaches.
Sisters Under the Skin: A Case for Genetic Relationship Between the Atlantic English-Based Creoles

This paper shows that the Atlantic English-based Creoles share six features which are derivable neither from superstratal, substratal, nor universal influences, and therefore constitute idiosyncratic correspondences. The six features indicate that these Creoles all derive from a single ancestor of expanded structure, in contrast to the dominant polygenetic scenario under which the Atlantic English-based Creoles emerged, in essence, independently of one another in their respective locations. The findings have implications for all conceptions of creole genesis, in arguing for diffusion as a pivotal, rather than marginal factor. The features discussed are copulas da and de, pronoun unu, anterior marker bin, adverbial self and the obligative verb fu.
Verb tense, negatives, and other determinants of the intensity of evaluative meaning

Fourteen adjectives were rated along an 11-point scale of (Un) Favorableness, both singly and when preceded by each of 21 Quantifiers. The Quantifiers consisted of: eight adverbs denoting Frequency (e.g., Often ); severn adverbs denoting Temporal proximity (e.g., Soon ); three Verb Tenses ( Is, Was, Will be ); and three Negatives ( Not, Un —, and Not un —). Data from 88 S s were scaled by a successive intervals method. Empirical scale values for all Quantifier-Adjective pairs were tested against a linear model. All four categories of quantifiers exert decremental effects on the degree of evaluative polarization of the adjectives, to comparative extents which are consistent with a priori and theoretical expectation. Some implications of the findings for measurement and development are briefly discussed.
THE SCHOOL-TO-COMMUNITY TRANSITION EXPERIENCES OF HEARING YOUNG ADULTS AND YOUNG ADULTS WHO ARE DEAF

This study examined the school-to-community transition experiences of hearing young adults and young adults who are deaf. Independent variables included hearing status, gender, and, for the deaf group, residential and mainstream school placement. Dependent variables addressed employment, independent living, and social experiences. Overall, the hearing persons exhibited more success than the deaf persons from either mainstream or residential schools. Gender differences did not uniformly favor men, as women outperformed men on selected variables. Suggestions for improving transition programs for persons who are deaf are provided.
A histopathologic study of 116 ameloblastomas with special reference to the desmoplastic variant

The histopathologic features of 116 ameloblastomas were reviewed with special reference to the incidence of the recently described desmoplastic variant. The series included 110 intraosseous lesions and 6 extraosseous ameloblastomas. Ninety-six (88%) of the intraosseous tumors were found in the mandible, and 61% involved the molar-ascending ramus area. Fourteen examples of the desmoplastic variant were identified, representing 13% of the intraosseous tumors. The lesions showed distinctive histologic features characterized by an extensive collagenized stroma containing small islands of tumor epithelium with scant tendency to form cystic structures. This histologic variant has a marked tendency to involve the anterior portions of the jaws with 7 of the 14 examples being located in the maxilla. These desmoplastic lesions also showed unusual radiographic findings, often more suggestive of a benign fibro-osseous lesion than of ameloblastoma.
REASONS GIVEN FOR THE 1941-1945 WAR WITH JAPAN: CONTRASTING INTERPRETATIONS '

Summary.-Alternative interpretations of events leading to war with Japan in 1941 were evaluated. The standard version of the events was preferred by 31 of the 90 subjects who were enlisted to participate in the study by 20 students. The version of the events describing chis story within the framework of the influence of Western colonization on the cultures of the countries of the Far East was endorsed by 50 subjects. Of the 90 subjects 9 were undecided. The major underlying issues were described based on content analysis of these subjects' responses. Selection and consideration of antecedent events, as well as causal attribution, are affected by social and cultural contexts. Changes within these contexts likely lead to re-examination and re-interpretation of historical events. The passage of a half-century after the war with Japan was won and the gradual demise of the Eurocentric world-view have opened a window within the intellectual climate in our country to reconsider the history of our relationship with the countries of the Far East. Among many facets of this relationship, its influence upon the culture of the countries of the Pacific Run is among the Issues discussed by a new generation of historians and social scientists. The involvement of the United States in the Great East Asia War is another of these closely intertwined issues. The Japanese viewpoint on the origins of the Great Asia War around the time of the opening of its Pacific theater is perhaps best dustrated by excerpts from the speech given by the ambassador to the United States, SabuKO Kurusu (1942) upon h~s return to Japan. The causes of the present Great East Asia War are remote. Since the 19th Century, the people of East Asia have been subjected to economic as well as military invasions by West European powers. Many countries of Asia lost their territory and independence. This war is the reaction of the people of East Asia against the European invasions. Following the Spanish-American war of 1898 the United States abandoned its tradition of nonintervention and amexed Philippines, joining the European powers in infringing upon East Asia. Since that time, United States policy toward East Asia changed its character, producing an irreconcilable inconsistency between professed purity and humanitarianism and practiced interventionism and exploitation. The United States mastered he art of encapsulating its imperialistic designs with high sounding idealism.
Resting-state functional connectivity in women with Major Depressive Disorder.

Abstract Objective Limited research has focused on whole-brain functional connectivity in a well-characterized sample of subjects with current Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). We aimed to investigate resting-state functional connectivity and the extent to which this is correlated with depression severity in unmedicated depressed subjects without comorbidities. Methods We utilized Independent Component Analysis (ICA) to investigate whole-brain functional connectivity in a sample of healthy controls ( n = 26) and unmedicated subjects diagnosed only with current MDD ( n = 20). Correlations were calculated between network connectivity strength and depression severity. Results Depressed subjects demonstrated significantly decreased connectivity in the right frontoparietal ( p = 0.03), left frontoparietal ( p = 0.01), and language ( p = 0.02) networks compared to healthy control subjects. Conclusion We found abnormal resting-state functional connectivity not previously reported in MDD. Decreased connectivity in the frontoparietal and language networks may represent depression-related difficulties in attention, cognitive control, goal-directed cognition, and language. Findings from this study may further elucidate functional connectivity as a diagnostic marker of depression severity.
Behavior of planetesimals passing through the gas cloud surrounding proto-Jupiter

Abstract An understanding of the solar system formation process requires a knowledge of the affect that gas giant formation (such as a proto-Jupiter) has on the formation of such systems. This work models the interaction of a gaseous proto-Jupiter with a collection of planetesimals, considering the size, mass, composition, viscosity, rotation, and orbit of the proto-Jupiter and the mass, radius, composition, and orbits of the planetesimals. The model includes the effects of both gravity and gas drag on the planetesimals while they are within the planet's gaseous envelope. Various physical conditions for both the planetesimals and proto-Jupiter are manipulated to determine the manner in which they affect processes such as resonance and accretion. It is shown that the inclusion of a gas drag interaction allows the accretion by Jupiter of the majority of particles which would have been expected to be placed at L1 or L2. This shows that a developing proto-Jupiter indeed plays a large part in the overall development of the protoplanetary system by offering a mechanism allowing for an increased accretion rate of planetesimals in its immediate region.
Postmenopausal oestrogen replacement therapy: an appraisal of risks and benefits.

At the present time postmenopausal oestrogen replacement therapy is controversial. Numerous reports of an increased risk of endometrial carcinoma in patients receiving unopposed oestr ogen has led many women and physicians to abandon their use. However, recent data, particularly with regard to prevention of postmenopausal osteoporotic-related fractures, and the elimination of the added risk of endometrial neoplasia by added progestagens, suggest the need for a more careful examination of the risk/benefit ratio. Postmenopausal oestrogen replacement therapy should not be withheld from the patient with troublesome vasomotor symptoms, symptomatic genitourinary atrophic changes or to prevent osteoporosis in patients at risk. Oestrogens are indicated in the prematurely oestrogen-deficient women to prevent premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Oestrogen should be given cyclically in all women and for those women with a uterus, a progestagen should be added for the last 10 days of each cycle. In all situations the woman should participate in the decision to use oestrogen, and must understand the indications for its use and expected duration of treatment. With continued medical surveillance and prompt investigation of any abnormal vaginal bleeding the risks of oestrogen administration are outweighed by the benefits in those patients in whom replacement therapy is needed.
Updated emissions from ocean shipping

[1] Marine vessel inventories demonstrate that ship emissions cannot be neglected in assessing environmental impacts of air pollution, although significant uncertainty in these inventories remains. We address this uncertainty by employing a bottom-up estimate of fuel consumption and vessel activity for internationally registered fleets, including cargo vessels, other commercial vessels, and military vessels. We identify model bias in previous work, which assumed internationally registered ships primarily consume international marine fuels. Updated results suggest fuel consumption is ∼289 million metric tons per year, more than twice the quantity reported as international fuel. According to our analysis, fuel used by internationally registered fleets is apparently allocated to both international and domestic fuel statistics; this implies either that ships operate along domestic routes much of the time or that marine fuel sales to these ships may be misassigned. If the former is true, then allocation of emissions to international shipping routes may underestimate near-coastal emissions from ships. Our updated inventories increases previous ship emissions inventories for all pollutants; for example, global NOx emissions (∼6.87 Tg N) are more than doubled. This work also produces detailed sensitivity analyses of inputs to these estimates, identifying uncertainty in vessel duty-cycle as critical to overall emissions estimates. We discuss implications for assessing ship emissions impacts.
Uptake as a Determinant of Methotrexate Response in Mouse Leukemias

Methotrexate-promoted survival of mice bearing different transplantable leukemias was compared with uptake of the drug by leukemia cells in vitro. A high degree of correlation (r2 = 0.88) showed that uptake may be a major determinant of the antitumor activity of methotrexate against transplantable mouse leukemias.
Decay of Turbulence Downstream of a Stilling Basin

Turbulence must be modeled accurately to simulate river processes, particularly transport of aqueous oxygen and nitrogen. Spillway operations affect downstream turbulence, but there has been little research on turbulence intensities downstream of stilling basins. For this study, laboratory measurements were taken on a three-dimensional, physical model of McNary Dam, Columbia River, United States to determine how the turbulence, initially generated by spillway flow, decreases with distance downstream. The experiments also examined how flow rate, tailwater depth, and the presence of spillway deflectors affect turbulence. A mathematical analysis was used to predict turbulent kinetic energy with distance, and good agreement was found between laboratory measurements and numerical predictions. Turbulence production generated by channel bed roughness was found to be small compared to turbulent energy dissipation, and the effect of flow separation related to bed irregularities on turbulence production was found to be negligible.
Synthesis of submicrometer crystals of aluminum oxide by aqueous intravesicular precipitation

Abstract Single compartment unilamellar vesicles were used as microreactors for controlled precipitation of crystals in the nanometer size range within their internal cavity. The model explored was the aqueous phase reaction of aluminum and hydroxyl ions. The method relies on the fact that the vesicle wall is selectively permeable to the anions only. An aluminum salt solution was first encapsulated within the intravesicular space. The extravesicular aluminum ions were replaced with sodium ions by ion exchange. A sodium hydroxide solution was then added to the extravesicular phase. When hydroxyl ions permeated through the vesicle wall and reacted with the encapsulated aluminum ions, the product was found to be spherical crystals of alumina. The specific polymorph appeared to depend on the aluminum salt anion. Under similar conditions, in the absence of vesicles, a gelatinous precipitate of aluminum hydroxide comprising of plate-like particles was formed.