cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
True S-cones are concentrated in the ventral mouse retina for color detection in the upper visual field

Color, an important visual cue for survival, is encoded by comparing signals from photoreceptors with different spectral sensitivities. The mouse retina expresses a short wavelength-sensitive and a middle/long wavelength-sensitive opsin (S- and M-opsin), forming opposing, overlapping gradients along the dorsal-ventral axis. Here, we analyzed the distribution of all cone types across the entire retina for two commonly used mouse strains. We found, unexpectedly, that 9true9 S-cones (S-opsin only) are highly concentrated (up to 30% of cones) in ventral retina. Moreover, S-cone bipolar cells (SCBCs) are also skewed towards ventral retina, with wiring patterns matching the distribution of true S-cones. In addition, true S-cones in the ventral retina form clusters, which may augment synaptic input to SCBCs. Such a unique true S-cone pattern forms a basis for mouse color vision, likely reflecting evolutionary adaption to enhance color coding for the upper visual field suitable for mice9s habitat and behavior.
Incompatible institutions: socialism versus constitutionalism in India

There has been a decline in rule of law in India, reflected in the frequent amendments to the Indian Constitution. This paper analyzes the historical, ideological, and economic context for constitutional amendments to understand the reason for the deterioration of constitutionalism in India. I argue that the formal institutions of socialist planning were fundamentally incompatible with the constraints imposed by the Indian Constitution. This incompatibility led to frequent amendments to the Constitution, especially in the area of Fundamental Rights. Consequently, pursuit of socialist policies gradually undermined the Constitution. The contradictory mixture of socialism and constitutionalism led to economic and political deprivations that were never intended by the framers. I demonstrate this incompatibility using evidence from five-year-plans and constitutional amendments in India.
Gender, Populism, and the QAnon Conspiracy Movement

According to one recent review of the burgeoning interdisciplinary scholarly literature on populism, populism’s “relationship with gender issues remains largely understudied” (Abi-Hassan, 2017, 426–427). Of those scholarly treatments that do exist, the lion’s share focus on the role of men and masculinity in populist movements. In this essay, I argue scholarly reflection on the relationship of gender and populism should not be limited to this narrow frame. Through a close examination of the complex gender politics of QAnon, a pro-Trump conspiracy movement that burst into the mainstream of U.S. politics and culture with the onset of the global Coronavirus pandemic, I demonstrate that populist deployments of femininity are as rich, complex, and potent as their deployments of masculinity. QAnon, I argue, is a case study in how femininity, particularly feminine identities centered on motherhood and maternal duty, can be mobilized to engage women in populist political projects. Until scholars of populism start asking Cynthia Enloe’s famous question, “Where are the women?,” in a sustained and rigorous way, phenomena that are integral to populism’s functioning will elude us and our understanding of the relationship between gender and populism will remain partial and incomplete (Enloe, 2014).
Trends in Florida's 2020 COVID-19 Experience.

2020, Florida's pandemic experience shows increases coming in summer and holiday waves. COVID-19 infections, emergency department visits, hospitalizations and deaths vary between times, places and populations. Within the growing totals, several themes are beginning to emerge relating to patient age, county voting preferences in 2020 presidential elections, and population race, ethnicity, nativity and age composition.
Injury Investigations in Antidumping and the Super-Additivity Effect: A Theoretical Explanation

Empirical evidence shows that in injury investigations in antidumping cases conducted by the United States International Trade Commission, the probability of a positive finding is higher when the number of defendant firms is larger, holding constant their total market share. In the paper we offer a theoretical explanation of this finding. We show that the presence of many exporters exacerbates the free-rider problem, which leads every firm to invest less on defense. Thus for the same market share, injury finding is more likely to be positive for many small sellers than a few large sellers.
The Role of Hydrates, Competing Chemical Constituents, and Surface Composition on ClNO2 Formation.

Atomic chlorine (Cl•) affects air quality and atmospheric oxidizing capacity. Nitryl chloride (ClNO2) - a common Cl• source-forms when chloride-containing aerosols react with dinitrogen pentoxide (N2O5). A recent study showed that saline lakebed (playa) dust is an inland source of particulate chloride (Cl-) that generates high ClNO2. However, the underlying physiochemical factors responsible for observed yields are poorly understood. To elucidate these controlling factors, we utilized single particle and bulk techniques to determine the chemical composition and mineralogy of playa sediment and dust samples from the southwest United States. Single particle analysis shows trace highly hygroscopic magnesium and calcium Cl-containing minerals are present and likely facilitate ClNO2 formation at low humidity. Single particle and mineralogical analysis detected playa sediment organic matter that hinders N2O5 uptake as well as 10 A-clay minerals (e.g., Illite) that compete with water and chloride for N2O5. Finally, we show that the composition of the aerosol surface, rather than the bulk, is critical in ClNO2 formation. These findings underscore the importance of mixing state, competing reactions, and surface chemistry on N2O5 uptake and ClNO2 yield for playa dusts and, likely, other aerosol systems. Therefore, consideration of particle surface composition is necessary to improve ClNO2 and air quality modeling.
Harming Competition and Consumers under the Guise of Protecting Privacy: An Analysis of Apple’s iOS 14 Policy Updates

Apple’s iOS 14 update represents an anti-competitive strategy disguised as a privacy-protecting measure. Apple now prohibits non-Apple apps from using information essential to providing relevant, personalized advertising, without explicit user opt-in. And users may opt-in only after they are shown an ominous and misleading prompt about “tracking,” one that Apple’s own apps and services need not display, because consumers are automatically “opted in” to Apple’s own tracking. Apple’s policy will have the pernicious effects of enhancing the dominance of iOS among mobile operating systems and the dominance of its own apps and services within the iOS ecosystem, while reducing consumer choice and devastating the free-app ecosystem. This paper explains: (i) Apple’s dominance in mobile OSs and the competitive dynamics in the industry, including the critical role that personalized advertising plays in today’s mobile app ecosystem; (ii) how Apple’s iOS 14 updates dramatically alter today’s mobile OS ecosystem, wrongfully preference Apple’s own products and services, and help Apple protect and augment its dominance over iOS and more broadly over mobile OSs; and (iii) why such actions harm competition, and by extension, iOS users and consumers more broadly.
The patient experience of ABVD treatment in Hodgkin lymphoma: a retrospective cohort study of patient-reported distress

Psychological distress is prevalent in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Many patients, regardless of prognosis, receive ABVD chemotherapy as first-line treatment, but few studies have specifically examined the nature of distress during this shared treatment experience. We conducted a retrospective study of patient-reported distress in HL patients receiving ABVD treatment at a single tertiary care facility. Distress was measured using the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer and Problem List (PL). We used descriptive statistics and generalized estimating equations to assess the prevalence of distress and specific problem items during treatment and associations with patient- and disease-related factors. We collected data from 50 patients comprising 467 unique encounters, with 369/467 (79.0%) reporting a distress thermometer score. Median distress score was 2 (IQR: 0–5), but actionable distress (distress thermometer ≥4) was noted for 118/369 (32.0%) encounters. Actionable distress was only related to having a prior cancer, which conferred lower odds of actionable distress (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.07–0.74, p=0.01) Physical and emotional problems were reported for 287/369 (77.8%) and 125/369 (33.9%) visits, respectively. Female patients had greater odds of both physical (OR 3.17, 95% CI 1.32–7.66, p=0.01) and emotional (OR 3.31, 95% CI 1.25–8.73, p=0.02) problems. ABVD treatment is associated with a high frequency of actionable distress, with physical and emotional problems acting as primary drivers. Female patients may be particularly vulnerable, while cancer survivors may be uniquely resilient. These findings demonstrate the need to thoroughly screen for and appropriately tailor distress management strategies for HL patients during treatment with ABVD.
Examining perceptions, selections, and products in undergraduates' learning from multiple resources.

BACKGROUND When learning about complex topics using the Internet, students commonly encounter a multitude of textual, non-textual (e.g., images and graphs), and multimedia (e.g., videos) resources. Yet students' learning from multiple texts and multiple (non-textual) resources (MT-MR learning) has received insufficient consideration in the literature. AIMS We examine the associations among (1) undergraduates' conceptions of reasons for multiple resource access, (2) log-data of resource use when completing a MT-MR task, and (3) writing performance. SAMPLE Participants were 72 undergraduate students in the United States. METHODS Undergraduates were provided with a library of five texts and one video, with the option of accessing supplemental data (e.g., graphs and maps) in association with each resource. Log-data (e.g., time and supplemental data access) of undergraduates' resource use were collected. Undergraduates were then asked to compose a research report and to describe what they considered the purpose of multiple resource access to be. RESULTS Four types of conceptions were identified, reflecting a desire to (1) access a lot of information, (2) understand multiple perspectives, (3) corroborate and evaluate information, and (4) develop a personal understanding of a given topic. Undergraduates who considered corroboration and evaluation to be the purpose of multiple resource access were more likely to access more supplemental data sources and performed better on a multiple resource learning task. CONCLUSIONS Undergraduates in our sample held conceptions largely similar to, but in some aspects distinct from, those identified by Barzilai and Zohar (Cognit Instruct, 30, 2012, 39). Conceptions were associated with resource access during task completion and with writing performance.
Fix It or Forget It

The inherent limitations of remedies as a method of resolving competitive concerns with mergers have become more evident. The expansive use of remedies in actual practice has likely exceeded the capabilities of agencies and courts; and empirical evidence has increasingly cast doubt on their effectiveness. Accordingly, we propose a “no-remedies” policy under which the antitrust agency would not accept any conduct remedies and only limited divestitures. The agencies would only consider those structural changes that have been undertaken (or at least committed to) prior to the parties’ filing their merger proposal and would not enter into negotiation with the parties during the review period. This “Fix It or Forget It” (“FIFI”) policy would encourage merging parties to initiate the necessary competitive fixes and permit the agency to evaluate precisely what the parties file in their proposal. We believe this policy would strengthen merger enforcement by restoring the traditional roles of the agencies and the courts.
A classification algorithm to predict chronic pain using both regression and machine learning - A stepwise approach.

Abstract This secondary data analysis study aimed to (1) investigate the use of two sense-based parameters (movement and sleep hours) as predictors of chronic pain when controlling for patient demographics and depression, and (2) identify a classification model with accuracy in predicting chronic pain. Data collected by Oregon Health & Science University between March 2018 and December 2019 under the Collaborative Aging Research Using Technology Initiative were analyzed in two stages. Data were collected by sensor technologies and questionnaires from older adults living independently or with a partner in the community. In Stage 1, regression models were employed to determine unique sensor-based behavioral predictors of pain. These sensor-based parameters were used to create a classification model to predict the weekly recalled pain intensity and interference level using a deep neural network model, a machine learning approach, in Stage 2. Daily step count was a unique predictor for both pain intensity (75% Accuracy, F1 = 0.58) and pain interference (82% Accuracy, F1 = 0.59). The developed classification model performed well in this dataset with acceptable accuracy scores. This study demonstrated that machine learning technique can be used to identify the relationship between patients' pain and the risk factors.
Confusion of the Metaphysics of Meaning with the Epistemology of Interpretation

This confusion is the Second Methodological Flaw of Linguistic Pragmatism. There is an obvious difference between the study of the properties of utterances – what is said and what is meant – and the study of how hearers interpret utterances. We might say that the former study is concerned with the metaphysics of meaning, the latter, with the epistemology of interpretation. Yet confusion of these two studies is almost ubiquitous in the pragmatics literature. Pragmatists think that what is said is semantically underdetermined and, as Carston says, believe that “pragmatic inference (that is, maxim-guided inference) is required to make up the shortfall”. This is the confusion. If there were a shortfall, it would be made up by something non-inferential that the speaker has in mind. Elugardo and Stainton acknowledge the distinction between metaphysical (constitutive) and epistemic determination but then surprisingly claim that it does no “undue harm sometimes to ignore the distinction in practice”; doing so is not a “mere confusion”; the topics are “inextricably linked”. I argue that their reasons for thinking this are flawed. (A) At most they demonstrate an evidential impact of epistemic on metaphysical determination. (B) There is no reason to believe that what a hearer can figure out about what is asserted/stated/said provides evidence of what could be a metaphysical determinant of what is asserted/stated/said. Ignoring the distinction between the metaphysical and the epistemological wrongly encourages the idea that meanings are pragmatically constituted.
APOBEC mutagenesis inhibits breast cancer growth through induction of T cell-mediated antitumor immune responses

The APOBEC family of cytidine deaminases is one of the most common endogenous sources of mutations in human cancer. Genomic studies of tumors have found that APOBEC mutational signatures are enriched in the HER2 subtype of breast cancer and are associated with immunotherapy response in diverse cancer types. However, the direct consequences of APOBEC mutagenesis on the tumor immune microenvironment have not been thoroughly investigated. To address this, we developed syngeneic murine mammary tumor models with inducible expression of APOBEC3B. We found that APOBEC activity induced antitumor adaptive immune responses and CD4+ T cell-mediated, antigen-specific tumor growth inhibition. Although polyclonal APOBEC tumors had a moderate growth defect, clonal APOBEC tumors were almost completely rejected, suggesting that APOBEC-mediated genetic heterogeneity limits antitumor adaptive immune responses. Consistent with the observed immune infiltration in APOBEC tumors, APOBEC activity sensitized HER2-driven breast tumors to anti-CTLA-4 checkpoint inhibition and led to a complete response to combination anti-CTLA-4 and anti-HER2 therapy. In human breast cancers, the relationship between APOBEC mutagenesis and immunogenicity varied by breast cancer subtype and the frequency of subclonal mutations. This work provides a mechanistic basis for the sensitivity of APOBEC tumors to checkpoint inhibitors and suggests a rationale for using APOBEC mutational signatures and clonality as biomarkers predicting immunotherapy response in HER2-positive breast cancers.
Introduction to the Critical Zone

Abstract The National Research Council (NRC, 2001, p. 2) defined the Critical Zone as “ the heterogeneous, near surface environment in which complex interactions involving rock, soil, water, air and living organisms regulate the natural habitat and determine availability of life sustaining resources. ” From this original definition, many, now loosely worded, definitions have been crafted to define the limits of this zone as ranging from the top of the canopy layer down to the bottom of the aquifer, so that the Critical Zone includes all the upper zone of Earth sensu lato . The term Critical Zone, referring to this near-surface and surface zone, was first introduced by Gail Ashley in 1988 to recognize that soil connects the vegetation canopy to the soil; the soil connects to the weathered materials and the weathered materials connect to bedrock, and bedrock provides the connection to the aquifer. In recognition of the importance of this cause-and-effect relationship between previously unconnected spheres, the US National Science Foundation (NSF) established 10 Critical Zone Observatories (CZOs) supported by a national office. This was followed by the establishment of Soil Transformations in European Catchments (SoilTrEC) by the consortium of European Union members. Today there are 64 CZOs spread across the planet but within a narrow range of biophysical environments. The raison d’etre of the Critical Zone network is driven by basic principles of science: all the research at each location is focused on asking fundamental integrated biophysical questions and collecting and building long-term data banks from a well-studied environment. In this respect, one of the most important applied aspects of the global CZO network will be the development of reliable data that will lead to enlightened policy and management of the geoscience base of Earth. The name “Critical Zone” has become a fashionable term, but very little, truly integrated work occurs at the CZOs, which we argue will only be possible if it recognized that the real thread that connects all the components of the Critical Zone is water. That said, we think the Critical Zone concept is still a step in the right direction to serve as a unifying principle for the geosciences and an opportunity for truly integrative research of the biophysical environment and the role of humans within that environment.
Characteristics of the CDHP Population, 2005-2010

In 2001, a handful of employers started offering health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) - a then-new type of health plan. The most prevalent HRA plan design had a deductible of at least $1,000 for employee-only coverage and a tax-preferred account that workers and their families can use to pay their out-of-pocket health care expenses. In 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act included a provision to allow individuals with certain high-deductible health plans to contribute to a health savings account (HSA). HRAs and HSA-eligible plans are collectively known as consumer-driven health plans (CDHPs). In 2010, 16 percent of smaller employers and one-half of the largest employers offered a CDHP. As a result, about 21 million individuals with private insurance, representing about 12 percent of the market, were in a CDHP in 2010. This paper examines the population with a CDHP and how it differs from the population with traditional health coverage. Data from the 2005-2007 EBRI/Commonwealth Fund Consumerism in Health Care Survey and the 2008-2010 EBRI/MGA Consumer Engagement in Health Care Survey are used for the analysis. While it is very difficult to generalize the differences in characteristics among CDHP enrollees, high-deductible health plan (HDHP) enrollees, and individuals with traditional coverage, a few differences stand out. The CDHP and HDHP populations were less likely to be young (ages 21-34) than the population with traditional coverage. However, in 2010, both the CDHP and HDHP populations were more likely to be ages 35-44. There were no differences in the portion ages 45-54 and no recent differences in those ages 55-64. CDHP enrollees have higher income than traditional plan enrollees, but the degree to which they have higher income has been falling. CDHP and HDHP enrollees have consistently reported higher education levels than traditional plan enrollees. CDHP enrollees have consistently reported better health status than traditional plan enrollees and exhibited better health behavior than traditional plan enrollees with respect to smoking, exercise, and, recently, obesity rates. It cannot be determined from the survey whether plan design had an impact on health status, smoking, exercise, or obesity rates. The PDF for the above title, published in the May 2011 issue of EBRI Notes, also contains the fulltext of another May 2011 EBRI Notes article abstracted on SSRN: "IRA Asset Allocation."
Would Bigger Councils Yield Scale Economies in the Greater Perth Metropolitan Region? A Critique of the Metropolitan Local Government Review for Perth Local Government

Forced amalgamation is a ubiquitous feature of Australian local government reform – compulsory council consolidation programs have occurred in all states and territories, with the sole exception of Western Australia. However, the Final Report of the Metropolitan Local Government – released in October 2012 – called for a reduction of about 60 per cent of the local authorities in the Greater Perth metropolitan area. The Western Australian Government responded by announcing that the number of Perth councils will fall from 30 to 14 from 1 July 2015. The Final Report recommended amalgamation on seven main counts, including scale economies. However, apart from citing work on Tasmania by commercial consultants Deloitte Access Economics (DAE) (2011), no econometric evidence was produced in support of claims on scale economies. This paper seeks to remedy this deficiency by estimating a number of econometric models on the impact of amalgamation on Perth local government. The results of our empirical modelling suggest that scale economies, cost savings and other pecuniary gains are largely illusory. Indeed, only two of the ten main local government functions provide evidence to suggest potential economies of scale.
Photosynthetic and anatomical characteristics in the C4crassulacean acid metabolism-cycling plant Portulaca grandiflora.

Portulaca grandiflora (Lind.) is a succulent species with C 4 photosynthesis and crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) cycling in leaves, and CAM-idling type photosynthesis in stems. We investigated the level and localization of carbon fixation enzymes and photosynthetic activity of leaves and stems of P. grandiflora under well-watered and drought conditions. As CAM activity increased during water stress, the leaf water-storage tissue collapsed, presumably transferring water to the bundle sheath and mesophyll cells, and so maintaining the C 4 photosynthetic pathway. Tissue prints indicated an increase in phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) in the water-storage tissue of leaves and the cortex of stems. Immunoblot analyses after 10 d of water stress showed that leaves had a slight decrease in the proteins of the C 4 -CAM pathway, while at the same time a new isoform of NADP-malic enzyme (NADP-ME) appeared. In contrast, the stem showed increases in proteins of the CAM pathway when water stressed. Under water stress, diurnal fluctuation in acidity in leaves was not accompanied by a net gain or loss of CO 2 at night, and there was sustained, but decreased, fixation of CO 2 during the day, characteristic of CAM cycling. High gross rates of O 2 evolution were maintained during the day under water stress, suggesting induction of alternative electron sinks. With induced diurnal fluctuations in acidity in stems, there was no net carbon gain during the day or night. These results demonstrate, for the first time, that the stem of P. grandiflora is an inducible CAM-idling tissue. Our results also indicate that the C 4 and CAM pathways operate independently of one another in P. grandiflora.
Abstract 54: Genome-Wide Association Analysis of Gene-Sodium Interactions on Blood Pressure Phenotypes: The GenSalt Study

Background: Elevated blood pressure (BP) is a major public health challenge. Although the heritability of BP has been long established, current findings can explain only a small proportion of the BP variability attributed to genetic factors. Recent studies indicate that gene-environmental interactions may help to identify novel BP loci. Hence, the current study aimed to identify genetic variants influencing BP regulation by conducting genome-wide gene-sodium interaction analyses among 1,906 participants of the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Salt-Sensitivity (GenSalt) study. Methods: GenSalt recruited 1,906 Chinese participants from 633 families. At baseline, one 24-hour and two 8-hour urine specimens were collected to measure urinary sodium excretion. Nine BP measurements were taken using a random zero sphygmomanometer. A total of 868,158 autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped using Affymetrix Genomewide Human SNP array 6.0 (Affymetrix, Inc, Santa Clara, CA). Mixed effects models...
Effects of Deposition Temperature and Film Thickness on the Structural, Electrical, and Optical Properties of Germanium Thin Films

Germanium films deposited on glass by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition from germane and hydrogen grow in the structure succession of amorphous-nanocrystallineamorphous-nanocrystalline as the substrate temperature is raised from 30°C to 310°C. We ascribe the phase formation, from low to high temperature, to a sequence of low to high mobility of Ge growth species on a surface that is hydrogenated at low temperature but not hydrogenated at high temperature. We report some structural, optical, and electrical transport properties of Ge films as a function of deposition temperature and film thickness.
Recognizing animal-caused faults in power distribution systems using artificial neural networks

Artificial neural networks are used to recognize the causes of faults in power distribution systems, based on fault currents information collected for each outage. Actual field data are used. The methodology and implementation of neural networks and fuzzy logic for the identification of animal-caused distribution faults are presented. Satisfactory results are obtained, and the developed methodology can be easily generalized and used to identify other causes of faults in power distribution systems. >
Macromolecular structure of the organic framework of nacre in Haliotis rufescens: implications for growth and mechanical behavior.

Abstract We have performed a macromolecular structural analysis of the interlamellar and intertabular parts of the organic framework of the nacreous part of the shell of Haliotis rufescens , including the identification of structural chitin. Using histochemical optical microscopy we have mapped the locations of carboxylates and sulfates of proteins and chitin on the surfaces and within the core of the interlamellar layers and the intertabular matrix that together form the external organic matrix of composite nacre. This extends the earlier work of Nudelmann et al. [Nudelman, F., Gotliv, B.A., Addadi, L. and Weiner, S. 2006. Mollusk shell formation: mapping the distribution of organic matrix components underlying a single aragonite tablet in nacre. J. Struct. Biol. 153, 176–187] and Crenshaw and Ristedt [Crenshaw, M.A., Ristedt, H. 1976. The histochemical localization of reactive groups in septal nacre from Nautilus pompilius . In: Omori, M., Watabe, N. (Eds.) The Mechanisms of Biomineralization in Animals and Plants. Tokai University Press, Toyko] on Nautilus pompilius . Our mapping identifies distinct regions, defined by the macromolecular groups, including what is proposed to be the sites of CaCO 3 nucleation and that play a key role in nacre growth. Using AFM scanning probe microscopy we have identified a fibrous core within the framework that we associate with chitin. The structural picture that is evolved is then used to develop a simple structural model for the organic framework which is shown to be consistent with mechanical property measurements. The role of the intracrystalline matrix within the nacre tablets in mediating nacre’s mechanical response is noted within the framework of our model.
Characterization of Magnesium Efflux from Ehrlich Ascites Tumor Cells

Abstract Magnesium efflux from intact Ehrlich ascites tumor cells (EATC) has been characterized under 0-trans conditions. It is shown that a magnesium-extruding mechanism operates in these cells which brings about magnesium efflux up to 20% of the cell total content. EATC magnesium efflux is independent from extracellular Ca2+ and its apparent velocity is not affected by [Mg2+]o up to 160 μM. This extrusion, however, is strictly dependent on extracellular Na+ and it is inhibited by ouabain (1 mM), amiloride (1 mM), imipramine (0.5 mM) and quinidine (1 mM). It is not affected by HMA (5-(N,N-hexamethylene) amiloride) (0.5 μM) and vanadate (0.1 mM). Bumetanide (0.5 mM) enhances magnesium extrusion in these cells. EATC magnesium extrusion can be significantly stimulated by db cAMP, forskolin, and IBX (3-isobutyl- 1-methyl-xanthine). The intracellular magnesium distribution, studied also by means of the ionophore A23187, is regulated by energy metabolism and cell ATP content. Altogether our data demonstrate that EATC exhibit a magnesium extrusion sustained by Na+ gradient across the plasma membrane and carried out by a Na+/ Mg2+ antiport. In these cells magnesium homoeostasis results, regulated efficiently by cell ATP and cAMP content.
Eisenmenger's complex: report of two cases and review of cases with autopsy study.

Abstract Two cases of Eisenmenger's complex are described. The total number of such cases reported with pathological study is eighteen. The clinical and pathological findings in these patients are tabulated and discussed. Suggested diagnostic criteria, on the basis of these proved cases, are given. The first case is the third reported having associated with it a patent ductus arteriosus. The second case is the second reported having coarctation of the aorta associated with Eisenmenger's complex. Such associated anomalies are frequent.
Marketing on the internet - who can benefit from an online marketing approach

Abstract The research builds upon the literature in electronic commerce and past research in marketing with the objective of understanding factors that impact a product's adaptability to online marketing. A review of marketing channel choice literature reveals a set of factors and channel choice functions that are considered important in making channel decisions. Using this as a basis, four major channel functions, namely, product customization, availability, logistics, and transaction complexity are considered relevant in understanding the implications for Internet marketing. By building upon previous research in the area of channel selection, we provide a means of classifying Internet marketing initiatives based on product characteristics. The classification scheme based on product characteristics can help analyze the significance of each factor on the success of a firm's online marketing approach. Further, the classification scheme is used to discuss decision support implications.
Development of a clonogenic cell assay for human brain tumors.

An in vitro colony formation assay has been developed for the evaluation of human brain tumor therapy. Single cells that are derived from biopsy specimens and form colonies containing more than 25 cells are defined as clonogenic. Tumor disaggregation is most efficient using 0.25% trypsin and the optimal culture conditions include 4 weeks of incubation at 37 C with 5% CO2 in complete medium supplemented with 30% fetal calf serum and x-irradiated “feeder cells.” Transplantation of cells harvested from colonies resulted in tumor formation in nude mice. In the past 1 1/2 years, we have grown colonies from each of 37 evaluable tumors. The mean colony forming efficiency (CFE) was 0.0643% for 13 malignant gliomas (glioblastomas and anaplastic astrocytomas), and 0.0165% for 8 astrocytomas (Kernohan grades I and II, fibrillary and protoplasmic types). Furthermore, the 5 largest CFEs occurred in malignant gliomas. This implies a greater clonogenic capacity for cells derived from these more aggressive tumors. Differences in CFEs were greater between malignant gliomas than among astrocytomas. In contrast, the mean CFE was 0.0018% for 3 specimens of “normal brain.” The CFEs of 6 meningiomas were consistantly large with a mean of 1.5% which corresponds with previous observations of rapid in vitro proliferation for this tumor type. Colonies also developed from 2 oligodendrogliomas, 2 medulloblastomas, an ependymoma, a choroid plexus papilloma, a subependymoma, and 3 metastatic neoplasms. No correlation was observed between colony morphology or cell type and parent tumor histology. The colony formation assay will permit evaluation of the clonogenic tumor cell population and should contribute to our knowledge of human brain tumors, towards the development of more effective treatment regimens.
Management of a complex, posttraumatic, pelvic arteriovenous fistula with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass: Case report and review of the literature*

Abstract A 34-year-old man had a posttraumatic, pelvic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) and false aneurysm of 18 years' duration. He had undergone four previous unsuccessful attempts at operative repair, the last of which almost resulted in exsanguination. After the false aneurysm was exposed, the patient was placed on cardiopulmonary bypass. Core cooling (25° C) allowed the perfusion flow rates to be lowered (less than 0.5 L/min/m 2 ) while the aneurysm was opened, thereby permitting visualization and ligation of the arteriovenous communications within the aneurysm. Total circulatory arrest was not required. There were no complications and the patient was discharged on the eleventh postoperative day. Arteriography 5 months later showed complete ablation of the AVF. We believe that cardiopulmonary bypass with hypothermia and reduced blood flow is a useful adjunct in the repair of complex AVFs and arteriovenous malformations. This technique avoids the use of total circulatory arrest, which increases the risks of air embolism and ischemic organ injury. (J VASC SURG 1987;6:257-61.)
An overview of Canadian technology for space station

Abstract Canada has agreed to participate with the USA, Europe and Japan in Phase B of the development of Space Station. The paper addresses the preliminary studies which have already been completed concerning potential Canadian users of, and suppliers to, the space station infrastructure. Plans during the present phase include studies of an Integrated Servicing and Test Facility, Solar Arrays and a Remote Sensing Facility which could be provided by Canada to the infrastructure, and a Canadian User Development Program. The requirements for on-orbit servicing and testing of satellites and the role, in this function, both of humans and of the autonomous systems which may be used for servicing satellites remotely from the space station, provide new technological challenges. The requirements which can be satisfied to meet broad user demands through an unpressurized, integrated servicing and test facility controlled by the crew, either from a pressurized work station or during extravehicular activity, are addressed.
A New, Ultracapacity Tray for Distillation Columns

The gas flow capacity of conventional crossflow distillation trays is normally limited by the propensity of the gas to entrain liquid from the tray. Only a slight amount of such entrainment can be permitted without serious degradation of mass transfer efficiency. The tray-type contacting device described here is designed to entrain all of the liquid entering the tray, and then separate that liquid by a device located within the tray zone. As a result, considerably more gas flow can be accommodated in a distillation column sized for conventional crossflow trays. Complete distillation test data, taken at a semi-works scale, are presented along with a mechanistic model which represents the data and which can be used for extension to other distillation conditions.
Central Projections of Identified, Unmyelinated (C) Afferent Fibers Innervating Mammalian Skin

Unmyelinated (C) fibers are the most numerous sensory elements of mammalian peripheral nerve and comprise many of those responsible for initiating pain and temperature reactions; however, direct evidence has been lacking as to where and how these fibers terminate in the central nervous system. A plant lectin (Phaseolus vulgaris leukoagglutinin) was applied intracellularly by iontophoresis as an immunocytochemical marker. This permitted visualization of the central terminations of cutaneous C sensory fibers that had been identified by the nature of stimuli that excited them. The central branch of C-fiber units arborized and terminated mainly in the superficial layers of the spinal dorsal horn in defined patterns that related to their functional attributes. Thus, the superficial dorsal horn seems to act as a processing station for signals from fine sensory fibers.
Facts, myths, and controversies in vascular dementia

Significant progress in the field of VaD resulted from publication of the NINIDS-AIREN Diagnostic Criteria for VaD (G.C. Roman, T.K. Tatemichi, T. Erkinjuntti, et al., Vascular dementia (VaD): diagnostic criteria for research studies. Report of the NINDS-AIREN International Workshop. Neurology 43 (1993) 250-260). Epidemiological studies confirmed the importance of VaD as the second most common cause of dementia in the elderly, representing 15-20% of all cases of dementia. In Europe and North America, Alzheimer's disease (AD) predominates over VaD in a 2:1 ratio; in contrast, in Japan and China VaD accounts for almost 50% of all dementias. Case-control studies have identified risk factors for VaD including ageing, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, recurrent stroke, cardiac disease, smoking, sleep apnea, and more recently, hyperhomocysteinemia, among others. Hypertension treatment may prevent VaD and AD. This finding has enormous importance from the Public Health viewpoint to decrease the future number of patients with dementia in the elderly. Along with advances in the field of VaD came a number of controversies and damaging misconceptions and myths. Myth no. 1--Vascular dementia is a non-entity: The false idea that VaD does not exist is particularly destructive because it creates the perspective that VaD is unworthy of study or research. A condition that either does not exist or represents only a minute proportion of all cases of dementia in the elderly, lacks public health relevance and becomes a low priority for research by funding agencies and industry. In fact, vascular brain lesions are the commonest and most important component of dementia in the elderly. Myth no. 2--Vascular dementia is so difficult to diagnose that only experts can recognize and identify it accurately: VaD does exist and the diagnosis of post-stroke VaD, in particular is straightforward. Most cases fulfill NINDS-AIREN criteria for probable VaD; i.e., (1) there is acute onset of dementia demonstrated by impairment of memory and two other cognitive domains, such as orientation, praxis or executive dysfunction; (2) relevant cerebrovascular lesions are demonstrated by neuroimaging; and (3) a temporal relation between stroke and cognitive loss is evident. In the donepezil trials on VaD, post-stroke dementia represented about 75% of the >1,200 patients enrolled. Myth no. 3--Improvement in clinical trials of cholinergics in VaD is due to underlying AD, not to the vascular lesions. Experimental, clinical and pathological evidence has demonstrated cholinesterase deficits in VaD (independently of any concomitant AD pathology), including low acetylcholine in cerebrospinal fluid, and reduced choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in the brain.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic studies of carbon fiber surfaces VIII—A comparison of type I and type II fibers and their interaction with thin resin films

Abstract Type I (high-modulus HM) and Type II (high-strength HT) carbon fibers electrochemically treated in a variety of electrolytes have been analyzed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. A comparison of the differences in surface functionality and the possible interaction of treated fibers with epoxy resin is reported. The amount of carbon/oxygen functionality is greater for type II for the untreated and electrochemically treated fibers. Carboxylic/ester groups are produced at edge sites in the fiber surface whereas keto-enol groups are produced on the basal planes. Conclusive evidence for a chemical reaction between the fiber surface and 828-resin for fibers polarized in acidic electrolyte is given. It is not possible to conclude whether chemical bonding is responsible for the increased interlaminar shear strength of composites produced from treated fibers.
Mitogenesis, cell migration, and loss of focal adhesions induced by tenascin-C interacting with its cell surface receptor, annexin II.

In a previous study we demonstrated that the alternatively spliced region of tenascin-C, TNfnA-D, bound with high affinity to a cell surface receptor, annexin II. In the present study we demonstrat...
Contemporary trends of the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and resource utilization of necrotizing fasciitis in Texas: a population-based cohort study.

Introduction. There are limited population-level reports on the contemporary trends of the epidemiology, clinical features, resource utilization, and outcomes of necrotizing fasciitis (NF). Methods. We conducted a cohort study of Texas inpatient population, identifying hospitalizations with a diagnosis of NF during the years 2001–2010. The incidence, clinical features, resource utilization, and outcomes of NF hospitalizations were examined. Results. There were 12,172 NF hospitalizations during study period, with ICU admission in 50.3%. The incidence of NF rose 2.7%/year (P = 0.0001). Key changes between 2001-2002 and 2009-2010 included rising incidence of NF (5.9 versus 7.6 per 100,000 [P < 0.0001]), chronic comorbidities (69.4% versus 76.7% [P < 0.0001]), and development of ≥1 organ failure (28.5% versus 51.7% [P < 0.0001]). Inflation-adjusted hospital charges rose 37% (P < 0.0001). Hospital mortality (9.3%) remained unchanged during study period. Discharges to long-term care facilities rose from 12.2 to 30% (P < 0.0001). Conclusions. The present cohort of NF is the largest reported to date. There has been increasing incidence, chronic illness, and severity of illness of NF over the past decade, with half of NF hospitalizations admitted to ICU. Hospital mortality remained unchanged, while need for long-term care rose nearly 2.5-fold among survivors, suggesting increasing residual morbidity. The sources of the observed findings require further study.
Ion-exchange chromatography for the determination of tryptophan

Abstract A method was developed for the direct quantitative recovery of tryptophan from alkaline hydrolyzates of crude and purified proteins. A standard column ion-exchange chromatographic procedure for basic amino acids was modified with the use of a pH 4.48 buffer containing 1.5% phenethyl alcohol as the eluent, and a 0.9 cm diameter column of resin packed to a height of 12 cm. After the chromatogram was started tryptophan was resolved in 90 minutes. The mean μmole per cent and standard deviation for the recovery of free tryptophan hydrolyzed alone (5 replicate hydrolyzates) and free tryptophan hydrolyzed with crude soybean meal (4 replicate hydrolyzates) are 98.92±0.93 and 97.64±0.92, respectively.
Photoinitiated growth of sub-7 nm silver nanowires within a chemically active organic nanotubular template.

Self-assembled supramolecular nanotubes of J-aggregated amphiphilic cyanine dye in aqueous solution are employed as chemically active templates for the photoinitiated formation of silver nanowires with a very small and homogeneous diameter of (6.4 ± 0.5) nm. Key features of the template are (1) its small and well-defined diameter; (2) its photochemical activity, which allows photoinitiation of the structure formation; and (3) the processability in aqueous solution. The latter includes the potential to remove the template after the reaction, or to functionalize it further, e.g. with optoelectronically active polycations, providing access to quasi one-dimensional hybrid structures with well-defined metallic nanowires as a core.
A group theoretical approach to a certain class of perturbations of the Kepler problem

We study a particular class of perturbations of the classical Kepler Hamiltonian, first in two, then in three and finally in n dimensions. At every stage of our investigation the group theoretical nature of our constructions is fully exposed.
An overview of the past, present, and future of nongonadal LH/hCG actions in reproductive biology and medicine

Even though there were hints, it was not until 1986 that a number of laboratories worldwide began to demonstrate unequivocally the presence and functions of luteinizing hormone/human chorionic gonadotropin (LH/hCG) receptors in various female and male nongonadal tissues. There was no species specificity but there was tissue specificity in the nongonadal LH/hCG receptor distribution. Nongonadal receptor levels were lower but they were regulated and processed and used signaling mechanisms similarly to gonadal receptors. Although still greater understanding is needed, gains made in the last decade demonstrate that nongonadal actions of LH/hCG are physiologically important and may have relevance to better understanding several diseases and their treatment. A recently developed LH receptor knockout model has begun to reaffirm and extend the importance of nongonadal LH signaling in the body.
Prenatal protein malnutrition alters response to reward in adult rats

Abstract Developing rats were either malnourished or adequately nourished during the prenatal period by feeding their dams diets of 6% (low) or 25% (adequate) casein content 5 weeks prior to mating and throughout pregnancy. All pups received adequate nutrition from the day of birth onwards. In Experiment 1, male offspring aged 125 days were tested in a food-rewarded variable interval 2-min (VI 2′) operant paradigm under three levels of body weight reduction (90%, 85% and 80% of their ad lib feeding weight). Previously malnourished rats showed significantly higher response rates than well-nourished controls at the 90% and 85% levels but not at the 80% level. In Experiment 2, behaviorally naive male littermates aged 225 days were tested in a saccharin-solution-rewarded VI 2′ operant task. The rate of receipt of reward within each daily session was found to differ in the two nutritional groups. Previously malnourished rats maintained a stable rate of reward throughout the session while the controls showed a rapid decline over the first 15–20 min. The higher rate of reward late in the session in Experiment 2 and the elevated response rate in the first two phases of Experiment 1 suggests that prenatal protein malnutrition increases subsequent responsiveness to reward.