cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transverse beam sizes and quasi emittances for linearly coupled optics

Abstract Two transverse eigenmode rms emittances are defined statistically in the uncoupled normalized coordinate system. They are assumed to be adiabatic invariants. With linear coupling's action-angle parameterization, the strict expression for the beam size matrix in the laboratory coordinate system is obtained. It can be expressed in matrix P defined in the action-angle parameterization or in Twiss and coupling parameters defined in Edwards–Teng's parameterization, along with the eigenmode rms emittances. Numerical simulation calculations are carried out to check the analytical expressions and to verify the adiabatic eigenmode rms emittance invariants during the skew quadrupole magnet ramping. With linear coupling's matrix perturbation approach, the strict expressions of the horizontal and vertical beam sizes in the laboratory coordinate system are approximated to give the quasi horizontal and vertical beam emittances under the weak linear difference coupling situation. The predictions of quasi horizontal and vertical beam emittances from different approximations are presented and discussed.
SeF4 and SF4 fluorination of BPL activated carbon surfaces

Abstract Fluorination of the surfaces of activated carbons has been proposed as a method to enhance the resistance of the activated carbon to the unwanted adsorption of water. In addition, the fluorination would increase the efficiency of the activated carbon to adsorb hydrophobic compounds. This study details the fluorination of BPL activated carbon with two selective fluorinating agents, selenium tetrafluoride (SeF4) and sulfur tetrafluoride (SF4). SeF4 and SF4 have been used previously to replace oxygen atoms with fluorine atoms. The BPL activated carbon was oxidized with nitric acid to increase the number of surface oxides present on the activated carbon. These surface oxides were the intended targets for the SeF4 and SF4 fluorinations. Results presented in this report include the reaction procedures used and the elemental chemical analysis of the products. Total fluorine content of the products and changes in the atomic percentages of carbon and oxygen from before the fluorination reactions to after reactions were completed are reported. Also, results of water uptake, surface acidity and surface area analysis studies are provided.
Reynolds-averaged modeling of polymer drag reduction in turbulent flows

A novel eddy viscosity model for predicting friction drag reduction induced by polymers in turbulent wall-bounded flows is presented. The approach is based on the elliptic relaxation model modified to account for the modified Reynolds-stress equilibrium established by the presence of elastic polymer chains in the fluid. The increased wall damping of the turbulent fluctuations is obtained by modifying the pressure–strain redistribution term. Polymer solutions are represented using the Finite Extensibility Non-linear elastic FENE-P dumbbell model; only one transport equation for the elongation of the polymer chains is considered. The model reproduces the level of drag reduction observed over a wide range of rheological parameters. In addition, both the mean velocity and the turbulent fluctuations are predicted with good accuracy. The approach is computationally attractive because of its limited increase in computational cost in comparison with its Newtonian counterpart.
Quality‐of‐life management for cancer patients

The importance of considering quality-of-life issues throughout the treatment of these cancers is evident. Although quality-of-life variables are being delineated for cancers of various organ systems, safeguarding the patient's sense of well being and self-esteem while preserving organ, endocrine, exocrine, and hormonal function, fosters the best possible quality of life for the patient in either a palliative or a curative setting. The next millennium will usher into practice more aggressive, targeted therapies that combine surgery, radiotherapy, and genetic and biologic agents. The proper sequencing, administration, and toxicity of these therapies will decrease morbidity and improve the quality of life for patients. Above all, the healthcare provider must be aware of the patient's personal concerns and needs for a good quality of life. The dictum espoused by Hippocrates of "primum non nocere" ("first, do no harm") is nowhere more appropriate than in the planning of individual therapies to achieve optimal quality of life.
Reevaluation of the shielded nuclide energy deficit in fission

Abstract Ranges of shielded nuclides from fission of U 233 and U 235 and range data on neutron emitters transformed into energies using the new Northcliffe Schilling range energy formulation. In general, agreement is found with the previous values for the deficit of energy for these species. The neutron emitter range data suggest that the neutron rich fission fragments may have an “excess” corresponding to the deficit among the shielded nuclides. This would lend support to the hypothesis that the deficit is produced by a neutron boil off effect.
Automated video analysis of age-related motor deficits in monkeys using EthoVision.

Previous studies comparing age-related changes in locomotor function in nonhuman primates have generally relied on subjective human observations or rudimentary infrared motion sensors. Here, we used the automated video-tracking system EthoVision to objectively quantify locomotor activity in 6 young, 6 middle-aged and 12 aged female rhesus monkeys. The video records were analyzed for distance traveled, movement speed and vertical activity. Our results showed that the young monkeys (4.9 ± 0.1 years old) traveled twice the distance and moved 48% faster than the middle-aged monkeys (15.7 ± 0.5 years old), and traveled thrice the distance and moved 67% faster than the aged monkeys (26.3 ± 0.9 years old). In addition, young monkeys were vertically more active (20/60 min) than both the middle-aged (7/60 min) and the aged (1/60 min) monkeys. Furthermore, the locomotor performance of the individual animals significantly correlated with increasing age for all three measures. We conclude that EthoVision is a reliable and objective tracking method for detecting age-related differences in locomotor movements in rhesus macaques, and possibly in humans.
Respiration: Oxygen flux through convection and diffusion

W HEREAS A pulmonologist associates respiration with oxygen flux (rate at which oxygen passes from one place to another) through the pulmonary system, a biochemist associates it with the oxygen flux at mitochondrial cytochrome aa3 set by cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) turnover rate. The movement of oxygen through and to each system requires convective flow (movement of molecules in a medium caused by a hydrostatic pressure gradient) and diffusive flow (movement of molecules due to a concentration gradient). The anesthesiologist is confronted with maintaining the oxygen flux through both systems via the circulation that interfaces them. Anesthesiologists rarely ask the question in this manner but frequently draw inferences from clinical data to assess if it is or is not happening. Commonly used clinical measures are peak airway pressures, tidal volumes, arterial Po2, blood pressure, cardiac output, hemoglobin content, base deficit, and mixed venous Poe. Although other articles in this issue discuss primarily the pulmonary system, this article presents my view of the principles of intraorgan convective and diffusive oxygen transport in providing an adequate intracellular Po2. Because this view involves multiple disciplines and much data that need interpretation and integration, I have deliberately omitted references in writing this article to avoid being accused of overinterpreting someone's data. In doing so, I hope to present a relatively coherent conceptual model that should be challenged. My perspective emphasizes the principles of oxygen delivery from a red cell within an organ to a cytochrome aa3 site within a mitochondria. Reviewed will be the importance of convective flow in the microcirculation in distributing red
Measuring volatile chemical emission rates from large waste disposal facilities

The methods for quantifying emission rates from surface impoundments are reviewed. In addition, a new method is proposed which requires measurements of background and downwind concentrations, along with accurate information on the height of the sampling point relative to the surface impoundment. For both ''the concentration profile technique'' and the proposed method, velocity and temperature profiles are needed. However, the amount of data needed is minimal compared with other methods currently available. The proposed method should also be applicable to other area emission sources such as landfills and land-treatment facilities. (JMT)
Adsorption of methanol, ethanol and water on well-characterized PtSn surface alloys

Adsorption and desorption of methanol (CH3OH), ethanol (C2H5OH) and water on Pt(111) and two, ordered, PtSn alloys has been studied primarily using temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) mass spectroscopy. The two alloys studied were the p(2 × 2)SnPt(111) and (√3 × √3)R30° SnPt(111) surface alloys prepared by vapor deposition of Sn on Pt(111), with θSn = 0.25 and 0.33, respectively. All three molecules are weakly bonded and reversibly adsorbed under UHV conditions on all three surfaces, molecularly desorbing during TPD without any decomposition. The two PtSn surface alloys were found to chemisorb both methanol and ethanol slightly more weakly than on the Pt(111) surface. The desorption activation energies measured by TPD, and hence the adsorption energies, of both methanol and ethanol progressively decrease as the surface concentration of Sn increases, compared with Pt(111). The decreased binding energy leads one to expect a lower reactivity for these alcohols on the two alloys. The sticking coefficients and the monolayer coverages of these alcohols on the two alloys were identical to that on Pt(111) at 100 K, independent of the amount of Sn present in the surface layer. Alloying Sn in Pt(111) also slightly weakens the adsorption energy of water. Water clusters are formed even at low coverages on all three surfaces, eventually forming a water bilayer prior to the formation of a condensed ice phase. These results are relevant to a molecular-level explanation for the reactivity of Sn-promoted Pt surfaces that have been used in the electro-oxidation of simple organic molecules.
The Dismal Jewish Social Science

Steven, I’m honored to have learned so much from you, to work with you, and to have become friends, collaborators, and colleagues over the past few years. For me, working with you has been one of the most valuable, exciting, challenging, rewarding and enjoyable academic experiences of my young career. Among all that I’ve gained from working with Steven, there are two things in particular that I would like to highlight. And, as is always the case, he not only talks about them, but he performs them. First: I learned the beauty of the foursquare table. As a heuristic framework, I have seen Steven use this in countless situations to make sense of questions about identity or attitude. And I’ve learned to use it myself. In his talk, Steven turned the foursquare table on himself, in order to self-identify as an ‘‘anxious transformationist.’’ As he was speaking, I could see the table take shape–with one axis belonging to Calvin Goldscheider and one to Charles Liebman. The foursquare table frames some of Steven’s ways of thinking, of accounting for all possible alternatives, and for working systematically through questions, problems and issues. Second: I learned the beauty of the mnemonic device. In my work with Steven, I’ve seen our ideas take shape in various alliterative groupings like ‘‘the Three M’s’’ or in certain alphabetical arrangements like ‘‘The Laws of ABCD.’’ This afternoon, Steven gave us the ‘‘Four I’s.’’ These are more than handy catchphrases–they are also analytical tools for making insights memorable and for presenting information in a way which is simple but not simplistic–particularly for non-academic and deeply interested and invested audiences. So, while I have no foursquare table or mnemonic to add, I want to offer an addendum to Steven’s ‘‘Four I’’ formula that is neither another ‘‘I’’ nor an application of any methodological tool in particular. I want to talk about economics. For all of our expertise in the various fields of Jewish life, for our ability to operationalize surveys
Biological effects of low level radiation: Values, dose-response models, risk estimates

Predictions about the health risks of low level radiation combine two sorts of measures. One estimates the amount and kinds of radiation released into the environment, and the other estimates the adverse health effects. A new field called health physics integrates and applies nuclear physics to cytology to supply both these estimates. It does so by first determining the kinds of effects different types of radiation produce in biological organisms, and second, by monitoring the extent of these effects produced by given levels of exposure. This essay examines the interplay between evidential constraints and external, contextual interests and values in studying the biological hazards of radiation. By analyzing the debate over linear vs. quadratic dose response models, the essay focuses on problems of developing quantitative, rather than qualitative, estimates of the risks of increased cancer incidence in an exposed population.
Assemblin, a herpes virus serine maturational proteinase and new molecular target for antivirals

Herpes group viruses encode a serine proteinase that is essential for the production of infectious virus. This chapter summarizes our current understanding of its biochemical and enzymatic properties, and considers its potential as a target for antivirals.
Coupled Heterogeneous Association Rule Mining (CHARM): Application Toward Inference of Modulatory Climate Relationships

The complex dynamic climate system often exhibits hierarchical modularity of its organization and function. Scientists have spent decades trying to discover and understand the driving mechanisms behind western African Sahel summer rainfall variability, mostly via hypothesis-driven and/or first-principles based research. Their work has furthered theory regarding the connections between various climate patterns, but the key relationships are still not fully understood. We present Coupled Heterogeneous Association Rule Mining (CHARM), a computationally efficient methodology that mines higher-order relationships between these subsystems' anomalous temporal phases with respect to their effect on the system's response. We apply this to climate science data, aiming to infer putative pathways/cascades of modulating events and the modulating signs that collectively define the network of pathways for the rainfall anomaly in the Sahel. Experimental results are consistent with fundamental theories of phenomena in climate science, especially physical processes that best describe sub-regional climate.
Deconstructing Deficit Thinking Working with Educators to Create More Equitable Learning Environments

Studies of comprehensive school reform suggest that such efforts often fail because of educators’ unwillingness to examine the root causes of underachievement and of failure among students from low-income and racially or ethnically diverse backgrounds and because of their tendency to locate the problem within students, families, and communities. Drawing on their research and professional development experiences, the authors present a conceptual framework for the deconstruction of deficit thinking through staff development. Next, they discuss assumptions and beliefs about culturally diverse students and families that they have encountered in low performing schools, and they illustrate how such beliefs may be successfully challenged and reframed.
Size control of dendrimer-templated silica

One of the most significant challenges facing the biomimetic synthesis of materials is achieving the requisite level of dimensional and spatial control. Typical reaction conditions for biomimetic silica synthesis allow for continued growth and ripening leading to the formation of larger nanospheres on the order of 200−600 nm in diameter. Herein, we have used polyamidoamine and polypropylenimine dendrimers as templates to expand the reaction conditions of biogenic silica production to produce a more robust synthesis leading to size-selective precipitation of silica nanospheres. Through the use of defined concentrations of phosphate buffer and main group metal chloride salts, we have shown that the biomimetic silica growth process is controlled by cationic neutralization of the anionic silica nanosphere surface. Neutralization minimizes electrostatic repulsions, allowing for agglomerization and continued growth of nanospheres. By controlling these concentrations, we can selectively produce silica nanosphere...
Solving the Overlapping Problem in Route Choice with Paired Combinatorial Logit Model

Recently, there has been renewed interest in improving the logit-based route choice model because of the importance of the route choice model in intelligent transportation systems applications, particularly the applications of advanced traveler information systems. The paired combinatorial logit (PCL) model and its equivalent mathematical programming formulation for the route choice problem have been studied. An algorithm based on the partial linearization method is presented for solving the PCL stochastic user equilibrium problem. Detailed examples are provided to explain how this hierarchical logit model resolves the overlapping problem through the similarity index while still accounting for both congestion and stochastic effects in the mathematical programming formulation.
Effect of pentylenetetrazol on the leech retzius cell.

Abstract Pentylenetetrazol, 1–10 m m , caused reversible hyperpolarization, cessation of spontaneous firing and fall in input resistance of the Retzius cells of leech segmental ganglia. Transient depolarization and increased firing also occurred in the early portion of the response in some cells. The hyperpolarization and input resistance changes occurred in the presence of 20-m m magnesium sulfate, but the early excitatory phenomena never did. Substitution of propionate for chloride in the bathing fluid reduced the hyperpolarization and input resistance change in proportion to the reduction of chloride. In the absence of all external chloride, and with a potassium chloride rather than a potassium acetate electrode in the cell, the drug caused depolarization and increased firing. The typical drug response occurred in the absence of external potassium and the presence of ouabain, 0.1 m m . These data demonstrate that the principal effect of pentylenetetrazol on this particular neuron is a direct, selective, and reversible increase in the chloride permeability of some substantial portion of its membrane. Increased electrogenic ion pumping does not appear to be a significant factor in the response. It is noted that the overall effect of increased chloride permeability in a population of neurons is theoretically quite complex, owing to the fact that the chloride equilibrium potential is negative to the firing level in some cells and positive to it in others.
Effects of N-methyl-D-aspartate (dizocilpine) and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate (LY215490) receptor antagonists on the voiding reflex induced by perineal stimulation in the neonatal rat

The present study was undertaken to examine the role of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate and N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptors in the regulation of voiding reflexes induced by perineal stimulation in the neonatal rat. Four-, six- and 10-day-old awake rats were used in the experiments and perineal stimulation was applied using the tip of a 1-ml syringe to evoke voiding. Voided volume and residual volume were measured. In 10-day-old rats, LY215490 (3-10 mg/kg, i.p.), a competitive alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate receptor antagonist, significantly inhibited reflex voiding, increasing the residual volume 34-53-fold. A 3 mg/kg dose decreased the urine release by 55%, whereas 10 mg/kg totally suppressed the voiding reflex induced by the perineal stimulation. LY215490 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) produced similar effects in four- and six-day-old rats. Dizocilpine (1-3 mg/kg, i.p.), a non-competitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, also significantly decreased the urine release (62-82%) and increased residual volume (180-230-fold). Combined administration of LY215490 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and dizocilpine (0.3 mg/kg, i.p.) to 10-day-old rats, in doses that individually had no effect on perineal stimulation-evoked voiding, depressed voided volume by 65%. These results indicate that, in neonatal rats, glutamatergic transmission in the spinal cord has an essential role in reflex micturition induced by perineal stimulation, and that facilitatory interactions between alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate and N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamatergic mechanisms are important for voiding, as noted previously in adult rats.
Social experience organizes parallel networks in sensory and limbic forebrain

Successful social behavior can directly influence an individual's reproductive success. Therefore, many organisms readily modify social behavior based on past experience. The neural changes induced by social experience, however, remain to be fully elucidated. We hypothesize that social modulation of neural systems not only occurs at the level of individual nuclei, but also of functional networks, and their relationships with behavior. We used the green anole lizard (Anolis carolinensis), which displays stereotyped, visually triggered social behaviors particularly suitable for comparisons of multiple functional networks in a social context, to test whether repeated aggressive interactions modify behavior and metabolic activity in limbic–hypothalamic and sensory forebrain regions, assessed by quantitative cytochrome oxidase (a slowly accumulating endogenous metabolic marker) histochemistry. We found that aggressive interactions potentiate aggressive behavior, induce changes in activities of individual nuclei, and organize context-specific functional neural networks. Surprisingly, this experiential effect is not only present in a limbic–hypothalamic network, but also extends to a sensory forebrain network directly relevant to the behavioral expression. Our results suggest that social experience modulates organisms' social behavior via modifying sensory and limbic neural systems in parallel both at the levels of individual regions and networks, potentially biasing perceptual as well as limbic processing. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2007
THE EFFECT OF PARTIAL PIVOTING IN SPARSE ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION SOLVERS

This paper considers the effect of partial pivoting in automatic ordinary differential equation solvers that utilize sparse matrix techniques. Two solvers are considered, the well-known LSODES solver and a derivate LSOD28. LSODES uses the Yale Sparse Matrix Package which does not perform partial pivoting. LSOD28 uses the MA28 Sparse Matrix Package which does perform partial pivoting. Results are presented for a benchmark problem that contains several features typically present in realistic problems. The results demonstrate that both solvers perform satisfactorily. At the same time, they illustrate that the lack of partial pivoting does not necessarily degrade the efficiency or the reliability of a solver such as LSODES for such problems. They support the argument that partial pivoting is not necessarily required in adaptive sparse solvers to solve complex problems accurately and efficiently.
Encapsulation reactions in vitro by haemocytes of Heliothis virescens

Abstract A simple in vitro system for studying capsule formation by Heliothis virescens haemocytes was devised. The system produced capsules morphologically and ultrastructurally similar to those formed in vivo. Encapsulation proceeded normally when melanization was inhibited and when divalent cations were absent. Capsule development took place in two physiologically distinct phases. Aggregation of haemocytes around a foreign object (phase 1) was a passive process. Consolidation of haemocytes into a smooth, adherent capsule (phase 2) required metabolic energy. Phase 1 was inhibited irreversibly by propranolol and caffeine. Inhibition of phase 1 by mild trypsinization could be reversed by haemolymph lysate. Preliminary evidence indicates that encapsulation promoting factors in the lysate originate in haemocytes.
An Efficient Algorithm for Minimizing a Sum of Euclidean Norms with Applications

In recent years rich theories on polynomial-time interior-point algorithms have been developed. These theories and algorithms can be applied to many nonlinear optimization problems to yield better complexity results for various applications. In this paper, the problem of minimizing a sum of Euclidean norms is studied. This problem is convex but not everywhere differentiable. By transforming the problem into a standard convex programming problem in conic form, we show that an $\epsilon$-optimal solution can be computed efficiently using interior-point algorithms. As applications to this problem, polynomial-time algorithms are derived for the Euclidean single facility location problem, the Euclidean multifacility location problem, and the shortest network under a given tree topology. In particular, by solving the Newton equation in linear time using {\em Gaussian elimination on leaves of a tree}, we present an algorithm which computes an $\epsilon$-optimal solution to the shortest network under a given full Steiner topology interconnecting N regular points, in $O(N \sqrt{N}(\log(\bar c/\epsilon)+\log N))$ arithmetic operations where $\bar c$ is the largest pairwise distance among the given points. The previous best-known result on this problem is a graphical algorithm which requires O(N2) arithmetic operations under certain conditions.
Dexamethasone metabolism in the horse.

Abstract Dexamethasone and a metabolite, 9-fluoro-16α-methyl-6β, 11β, 16β-trihydroxy-1, 4-androstadiene-3, 17-dione, were detected in the urine of horses injected parenterally with the parent drug. The structure of the metabolite was elucidated by thin-layer chromatography, infrared spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Modification of the dopamine and noradrenaline content in rat carotid body by carbohydrate-active steroids

Abstract Short-term or long-term administration of dexamethasone (1 mg/kg, i.p.) increases the concentrations of both dopamine and noradrenaline in rat carotid body. This increase in catecholamine content elicited by dexamethasone also occurs after transection of th. carotid sinus nerve or removal of the superior cervical ganglion. Injections of cycloheximide curtail the dexamethasoneinduced increase in noradrenaline content but the increase in dopamine content remains unchanged. The rate of elimination of dihydroxyphenylacetic acid is decreased by more than 50% 12 h following the injection of dexamethasone, while the steady-state content of dopamine is increased. It is inferred that the increase in dopamine content is due to a reduction of dopamine metabolism. The long-term increase in noradrenaline content appears to be triggered by a mechanism that depends on new protein synthesis.
Intelligent robotic control

A theoretical approach is developed to deal with man-machine interactive systems requiring advanced decision making in unpredictable environments. The hierarchical method consists of a three-layer control of "increasing intelligence and decreasing precision." The lowest level consists of several controllers designed for effective control with existing hardware using an approximation theory of optimal control. The next level is that of a coordinator which utilizes new computer architectures to effectively control the overall hardware system. The highest level is the organizer which supervises the performance of the overall system. Both highest levels are computer implemented and the research involved is in developing the appropriate architecture and software to accommodate others. The lowest level, aimed for end-point control tasks, is dominated by typical hardware control methods. The coexistence of the two approaches makes the method novel. Application of intelligent control techniques to robotics and manipulative systems is considered.
Autism and Piaget's theory: Are the two compatible?

Autism is interpreted in Piagetian terms with particular reference to the question of whether the atypical cognitive development represents an exception to the similar sequence hypothesis. Findings from relevant research applying Piaget's theory to mental retardation, psychosis, and autism are reviewed. The apparent exceptions to the hypothesis presented in autistic individuals are explained by Piaget's two-factor theory of figurative versus operative functions. Many autistic individuals show an arrest in operative functions at the sensorimotor level while continuing to progress in figurative functions. The early arrest interferes with subsequent development of higher-level conceptual, symbolic, and social skills. Questions for research are offered.
METHODOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF PROTEIN KINASE C TRANSLOCATION IN INTACT SMOOTH MUSCLE

Abstract This study investigated several potential artifacts that may influence agonist-induced distribution of protein kinase C (PKC) activity between cytosolic and membrane fractions of intact smooth muscle. Protein kinase C activity in the membrane fraction prepared from rat aorta exposed to phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) was only partially extracted by 0.2% Triton (T)X-100, while 1% TX-100, or repeated 0.2% TX-100 extractions completely extracted PKC activity. Extraction of PKC activity from the membrane fraction with TX-100 concentrations of 0.2% or higher was problematic, however, since TX-100 concentrations as low as 0.04% nearly abolished Ca2+ + phosphatidylserine + diolein-induced phosphorylation of histone substrate in the PKC assay. Substitution of PMA for diolein, however, restored histone phosphorylation to the level observed in the absence of TX-100. Triton X-100 concentrations as low as 0.025% also abolished Ca2+-induced histone phosphorylation, while Ca2+ + phosphatidylserine-induced phosphorylation was little affected. In contrast to our previous demonstration that exposure of rat aorta to phorbol ester increased PKC activity in the membrane fraction in aorta washed in Ca2+-free solution following phorbol ester exposure (Chuprun et al., Am J Physiol 261:C675–C684, 1991; Bazan et al., Eur J Pharmacol-Molec Pharmacol Section 227:343–348, 1992), PMA decreased PKC activity in the initial 0.2% TX-100 extraction of the membrane fraction in the absence of tissue wash in Ca2+-free solution following PMA exposure. This study, along with our previous reports, suggest that partial PKC extraction from the membrane, and Ca2+-dependent homogenization-induced translocation of PKC from the cytosol to the membrane fraction, may complicate measurements of agonist-induced PKC translocation. The reliability of PKC assays in crude fractions may be increased in the presence of TX-100, due to the ability of TX-100 to inhibit Ca2+-induced phosphorylation, and through the substitution of PMA for diolein, which maximally stimulates PKC in the presence of detergent.
AMBULATORY LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY: THE WAVE OF THE FUTURE

Objectives: The present study was conducted to report the transitions in the practice of laparoscopic cholecsytectomy since the inception of ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy and to evaluate the contemporary outcomes of day-case laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: Hospital database of patients who underwent cholecystectomies for benign hepatobiliary pathologies were reviewed between 1993 and 1999. Changes in the practice of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and length of hospital stay were analyzed. Causes for unanticipated admission and readmission were evaluated. Results: Of 2891 laparoscopic cholecystectomies recruited in the present study, 888 (31%) were performed as day case and 2003 (69%) were inpatient laparoscopic cholecystectomies. The annual number of ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy increased from 3 (0.6%) in 1993 to 212 (48%) in 1997, which was followed by a plateau in the next 3 years. There was a significant shift of patients who used to stay overnight to same day discharge, accounting for the increment of ambulatory procedures. Twenty-eight (3.2%) patients were admitted overnight after operation because of pain (n = 11), nausea and vomiting (n = 7) and other reasons (n = 10). Conclusions: The present study demonstrated a net trend towards ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Post-operative pain was the commonest reason for unanticipated admission after operation. Ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy heralds the wave of the future.
Radiation heat transfer calculations using a control-angle, control-volume-based discrete ordinates method

A control-angle, control-volume-based discrete ordinates method (CA - CV DOM) is presented in this paper. A detailed formulation of the discretization equation is presented in two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system. The procedure can be extended to curvilinear coordinate system with minor modifications. The step and modified-exponential schemes are used in this study. Present results converged to the grid independent solutions quickly and compared favorably against other published results for six test problems.
Management of Small Cell Lung Cancer: Current State of the Art

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a common malignancy that is rapidly fatal if left untreated, with most patients surviving < 6 months. Currently, patients with SCLC are treated with chemotherapy with or without thoracic radiotherapy. Randomized trials have demonstrated the superiority of multiagent regimens over single-agent therapies, with the combination of cisplatin and etoposide being the initial regimen of choice for most patients, regardless of stage at presentation. Dose escalation, weekly chemotherapy, alternating noncross-resistant chemotherapy, and maintenance chemotherapy have been evaluated in SCLC, with no convincing data to date demonstrating an advantage for these strategies over conventional treatment strategies. Second-line therapy may be effective in selected patients, depending on the interval between primary treatment and recurrence, response to primary therapy, and the agents used for initial treatment. Radiotherapy is generally accepted as an essential component of optimal management of limited-stage disease, although sequencing, timing, fractionation, dose, and field size remain less than adequately defined. Finally, the routine use of prophylactic cranial irradiation remains controversial, and currently should be reserved for patients in complete remission.
UNCOMFORTABLE RESIDUES OF DIS-LOCATIA: MIGRATION AND MODERN PANJABI SHORT STORIES

Movement of peoples can be seen as a defining hallmark of the twentieth century, but the aftermath of these movements rarely falls under the critical eye of the intellectual. This paper collides and interprets the affects of two historical movements of people: the division of Panjab in 1947 and the migration to Canada from Panjab after the Green Revolution. I understand the process of movement in these contexts as a disturbance and therefore violent in nature. Through my reading of the stories Tobha Tek Singh, by Saadat Hasan Manto, Baraf da Geet, by Sadhu Binning, and Do Tapu, by Jarnail Singh I seek to understand the migration alternately than the Freudian distinction of Heimlich/Unheimlich. Away from a binary modality and unbeknownst to an interstitiality, I seek to put forward the term Dis-locatia, as a term that emerges from an engagement with the disorienting emigre pose that describes a haunted dispossessed space of searching occupied by emigre authors.
Electron hopping in immobilized polyvalent and/or multicouple redox systems

Abstract A general equation is derived which accounts for both diffusive and (electric) field-assisted electron hopping through a matrix comprising any number of simple or polyvalent redox couples (a simple redox couple has two valence states interconverted by the transfer of one electron; a polyvalent redox couple has three or more valence states with one-electron interconversions). The derivation evolves from a fundamental equation derived separately by Saveant and by Buck describing electron transport through a matrix comprising a single redox couple . Of particular interest is the trivalent system where the three valence states are related by A + e − ⇋ B and B + e − ⇋ C. Vectorial electron hopping can occur between appropriately positioned pairs of redox moieties: A-B ⇋ B-A; B-C ⇋ C-B; and A-C ⇋ B-B. Expressions for the electronic flux are discussed for four experimental cases: Case 1, the instantaneous electronic flux with a large excess of mobile counter ions; Case 2, the steady-state electronic flux with a large excess of mobile counterions; Case 3, the electronic flux with no counterions (i.e., the concentrations and charges of species A, B, and C sustain electroneutrality); Case 4, the electronic flux with immobile counterions. Only small (interfacial) perturbations and limiting (time independent) conditions are considered. A basis for the analysis of the electronic flux in a generalized system comprising immobilized polyvalent or multi-couple redox coupless is also presented.
Negative Thyrotropin Assay Interference Associated with an IgGκ Paraprotein

Human anti-animal immunoglobulin or “heterophile” antibodies interfere in many immunoassays (1)(2). Anti-animal immunoglobulin antibodies can occur idiopathically or after treatment with monoclonal antibodies. Those heterophilic antibodies that bind murine immunoglobulins are often referred to as human anti-mouse antibodies (1). Two-site (sandwich) immunoassays are the assays most frequently reported to be subject to positive interference (1). False-negative heterophile interferences, to our knowledge, have all been cases of endogenous anti-analyte (not anti-immunoglobulin) antibodies or anti-idiotype antibodies in patients treated with monoclonal antibodies (3)(4)(5)(6). Here we describe a negative assay interference associated with an IgGκ paraprotein. The AxSYM Ultrasensitive hTSH II assay (Abbott Laboratories) is a sandwich assay for thyrotropin (TSH) that uses mouse monoclonal anti-TSH-coated microparticles and goat anti-TSH-alkaline phosphatase conjugate. In our laboratory, the functional detection limit of this assay is 0.1 mIU/L with a day-to-day CV of 12% (mean, 0.17 mIU/L). Inconsistent thyroid function test results in an 80-year-old male patient suffering from a myelodysplastic syndrome (IgGκ monoclonal …
EMG of scapulohumeral muscles in the chimpanzee during reaching and “arboreal” locomotion

Current views on the function of the deltoid and rotator cuff muscles emphasize their roles in arm-raising as participants in a scapulohumeral force “couple.” The acceptance of such a mechanism is based primarily on a 1944 EMG study of human shoulder muscle action. More recently, it has been suggested that shoulder joint stabilization constitutes a second and equally important function of the cuff musculature, especially in nonhuman primates which habitually use their forelimbs in overhead postural and locomotor activities. Few comparative data exist, however, on the actual recruitment patterns of these muscles in different species. In order to assess the general applicability of a scapulohumeral force couple model, and the functional significance of the differential development of the scapulohumeral musculature among primate species, we have undertaken a detailed study of shoulder muscle activity patterns in nonhuman primates employing telemetered electromyography, which permits examination of unfettered natural behaviors and locomotion. The results of our research on the chimpanzee, Pan troglodytes, on voluntary reaching and two forms of “arboreal” locomotion reveal four ways in which previous perceptions of the function of the scapulohumeral muscles must be revised: (1) the posterior deltoid is completely different in function from the middle and anterior regions of this muscle; (2) the integrity of the glenohumeral joint during suspensory postures is not maintained solely by osseoligamentous structures; (3) the function of teres minor is entirely different from that of the other rotator cuff muscles and is more similar to the posterior deltoid and teres major; and (4) each remaining member of the rotator cuff plays a distinct, and often unique, role during natural behaviors. These results clearly refute the view that the muscles of the rotator cuff act as a single functional unit in any way, and an alternative to the force couple model is proposed.
Structural Basis for Processivity and Single-Strand Specificity of RNase II

Summary RNase II is a member of the widely distributed RNR family of exoribonucleases, which are highly processive 3′→5′ hydrolytic enzymes that play an important role in mRNA decay. Here, we report the crystal structure of E. coli RNase II, which reveals an architecture reminiscent of the RNA exosome. Three RNA-binding domains come together to form a clamp-like assembly, which can only accommodate single-stranded RNA. This leads into a narrow, basic channel that ends at the putative catalytic center that is completely enclosed within the body of the protein. The putative path for RNA agrees well with biochemical data indicating that a 3′ single strand overhang of 7–10 nt is necessary for binding and hydrolysis by RNase II. The presence of the clamp and the narrow channel provides an explanation for the processivity of RNase II and for why its action is limited to single-stranded RNA.
Metronidazole impairs clearance of phenytoin but not of alprazolam or lorazepam.

Healthy volunteers received single doses of either phenytoin (300 mg IV), alprazolam (1 mg orally) or lorazepam (2 mg IV) on two occasions in random sequence. One of the two trials was a control; for the other trial, subjects ingested metronidazole, 250 mg three times daily beginning 4 days prior to and continuing for the duration of each kinetic study. Compared with control, metronidazole significantly prolonged phenytoin half-life (23 versus 16 hours, P less than .02) and reduced its clearance (.28 versus .33 mL/min/kg, P less than .005), known to depend on aromatic hydroxylation. However, metronidazole did not significantly alter kinetic variables for either alprazolam (metabolized by aliphatic hydroxylation) or lorazepam (metabolized by glucuronide conjugation). Thus, metronidazole has the capacity to impair the clearance of certain oxidatively metabolized drugs, but there is no apparent way to predict which drugs will be so influenced.
Des étrangers issus du Royaume et de la lumière (EvTh 49-50) : Les solitaires–élus dans l’Évangile selon Thomas, selon une approche intratextuelle

Cet article s’interesse a la signification et le role des solitaires–elus dans les logia 49-50 de l’Evangile selon Thomas. Apres avoir repertorie les differents sens attribues au substantif monakhos par la recherche actuelle, nous proposons une interpretation nouvelle de l’expression au moyen d’une lecture synchronique et intratextuelle de l’EvTh. La conclusion est que les solitaires et les elus ne sont pas deux classes d’individus distincts, mais constituent plutot un meme groupe, une seule entite. L’EvTh caracterise les solitaires–elus comme ceux qui s’adonnent a la quete du sens des paroles de Jesus, afin de ne pas gouter la mort (EvTh 1). Etant issus du Royaume et de la lumiere, ils sont aussi etrangers dans ce monde, a l’instar de Jesus, maitre du plerome.
Schizophrenia and reduced cyclic AMP production: Evidence for the role of receptor-linked events

Abstract Reduced cyclic AMP (cAMP) production has been found in platelets of schizophrenic patients. cAMP is generated physilogically as a result of a series of steps beginning with receptor activation by a ligand, progressing through activation of the enzyme protein, adenylate cyclase. The deficit of cAMP found in the schizophrenic population may occur at any one, or at multiple steps in this cascade. The present study attempts to discriminate whether impaired adenylate cyclase itself was responsible for the cAMP deficit or whether abnormalities in receptor events or linkage are present in schizophrenics. The production of cAMP following direct stimulation of adenylate cyclase by NaF was contrasted with receptor mediated activation of adenylate cyclase by prostaglandin E 1 (PGE 1 ) in disrupted platelet preparations from schizophrenics and normal controls. cAMP formation stimulated by NaF was not different in platelets of schizophrenics as compared to controls, however, platelets of schizophrenics showed reduced responsivity to PGE 1 stimulation. The authors interpret these findings as evidence for a membrane associated abnormality of either receptor or receptor-adenylate cyclase linkage in the schizophrenias.
Bank-Equity returns and changes in the discount rate

The ex ante value of discount window operations is modelled as an option providing financial institutions with a right to purchase reserves at potentially below market rates of interest. The value of this option varies according to terms specified by the Federal Reserve. Changes in the value of this option are linked to the equity returns of participating banks. An empirical method is proposed to separate the signal impacts of a discountrate change from the firm-specific impacts of changes in the hypothesized option value. Evidence consistent with changes in the value of the option is reported.
Optical limiting and excited-state absorption in fullerene derivatives

We present measurements of intensity-dependent transmission (optical limiting), Z-scan, and time resolved excited-state absorption, for several fullerenes and fullerene derivatives in solution, and for Co thin films and porous glass composites. Specific derivatives investigated include the isomers 5,6 pheny1-C-butync acid cholesteryl ester (5,6 PCBCR) and 6,6 PCBCR. We report optical limiting results for several wavelengths in the visible and near-infrared. Excited-state absorption is measured from 500-1000 nm with <1 picosecond resolution. The spectral and temporal information about the excited state can be used in combination with ground state measurements of absorption cross section to predict optical limiting behavior due to reverse saturable absorption. These predictions are confirmed by intensity dependent transmission measurements made at different wavelengths. We find that fullerenes functionalized for optimized solubility display enhanced optical limiting properties.
Cadmium induces retinoic acid signaling by regulating retinoic acid metabolic gene expression.

The transition metal cadmium is an environmental teratogen. In addition, cadmium and retinoic acid can act synergistically to induce forelimb malformations. The molecular mechanism underlying the teratogenicity of cadmium and the synergistic effect with retinoic acid has not been addressed. An evolutionarily conserved gene, β,β-carotene 15,15′-monooxygenase (BCMO), which is involved in retinoic acid biosynthesis, was studied in both Caenorhabditis elegans and murine Hepa 1–6 cells. In C. elegans, bcmo-1 was expressed in the intestine and was cadmium inducible. Similarly, in Hepa 1–6 cells, Bcmo1 was induced by cadmium. Retinoic acid-mediated signaling increased after 24-h exposures to 5 and 10 μm cadmium in Hepa 1–6 cells. Examination of gene expression demonstrated that the induction of retinoic acid signaling by cadmium may be mediated by overexpression of Bcmo1. Furthermore, cadmium inhibited the expression of Cyp26a1 and Cyp26b1, which are involved in retinoic acid degradation. These results indicate that cadmium-induced teratogenicity may be due to the ability of the metal to increase the levels of retinoic acid by disrupting the expression of retinoic acid-metabolizing genes.