cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A floating-gate vector-quantizer

We present a floating-gate based system for computing vector quantization (VQ), which is typically used for data compression and classification of signals to symbols. We present an architecture and resulting circuits which will enable direct programming/storage of weight vectors, as well as methods for adaptive VQ. We use an analog bump circuit to perform a continuous distance computation along a particular input coordinate. Unlike a traditional bump circuit, we use differential floating-gate inputs to provide the ability to store the learned value. The current outputs of each bump circuit are summed along a single wire, where the largest result(s) are selected using a winner-take-all circuit. We present experimental results measured from ICs fabricated on a 0.5 /spl mu/m CMOS process available through MOSIS.
Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (POSS) Polymers and Copolymers: A Review

This review describes the synthesis and properties of homopolymers and copolymers of monomers containing inorganic–organic hybrid polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) structures. Monomers, such as styryl-POSS, methacrylate-POSS, norbornyl-POSS, vinyl-POSS, epoxy-POSS, and siloxane-POSS, are included. Both monofunctional and multifunctional monomers are included. Thermoplastic and thermoset systems are considered. Thermal, rheological, and dynamic mechanical properties are described. The synthesis of POSS macromers (monomers) is briefly described. POSS chemicals have been used to prepare nanosized designed novel composites with a variety of potential applications. This review, covering 111 references, is descriptive and not designed to be totally comprehensive. However, the major existing reviews of certain subtopics are noted, allowing the reader to gain a general introduction while providing the information to permit more comprehensive coverage.
Natural antioxidants exhibit chemopreventive characteristics through the regulation of CNC b-Zip transcription factors in estrogen-induced breast carcinogenesis

The objective of the present study was to characterize the role of resveratrol (Res) and vitamin C (VC) in prevention of estrogen-induced breast cancer through regulation of CNC b-zip transcription factors. Human breast epithelial cell line MCF-10A was treated with 17β-estradiol (E2) and VC or Res with or without E2. mRNA and protein expression levels of CNC b-zip transcription factors: Nrf1, Nrf2, Nrf3 and Nrf2-regulated antioxidant enzymes SOD3 and NQO1 were quantified. Treatment with E2 suppressed while VC and Res prevented E2-mediated decrease in the expression levels of SOD3, NQO1, Nrf2 mRNA and protein in MCF-10A cells. Treatment with E2, Res or VC significantly increased mRNA and protein expression levels of Nrf1. 17β-estradiol treatment significantly increased but VC or Res decreased Nrf3 mRNA and protein expression levels. Our studies demonstrate that estrogen-induced breast cancer might be prevented through up-regulation of antioxidant enzymes via Nrf-dependent pathways.
"We're Supposed to Be Asleep?" Vigilance, Paranoia, and the Alert Methamphetamine User.

The stimulant “benefits” of amphetamine and its derivative, methamphetamine, have endured since the drugs first became popular nearly a century ago. The concepts of increasing energy for functional purposes related to work and productivity have been well studied. However, the broader idea of increased alertness, and what this means in the lives of users, has not yet been sufficiently examined. This article draws from ongoing research with active methamphetamine users to explore the perceived benefits, drawbacks, and meanings of remaining alert—awake and vigilant—while most of the world sleeps. The experiences of several users are situated in the contexts of sociostructural and mental health issues that shape cycles of use and meanings of addiction.
Localization and Function of Budding Yeast CENP-A Depends upon Kinetochore Protein Interactions and Is Independent of Canonical Centromere Sequence

Summary In many eukaryotes, the centromere is epigenetically specified and not strictly defined by sequence. In contrast, budding yeast has a specific 125 bp sequence required for kinetochore function. Despite the difference in centromere specification, budding yeast and multicellular eukaryotic centromeres contain a highly conserved histone H3 variant, CENP-A. The localization of budding yeast CENP-A, Cse4, requires the centromere DNA binding components, which are not conserved in multicellular eukaryotes. Here, we report that Cse4 localizes and functions at a synthetic kinetochore assembly site that lacks centromere sequence. The outer kinetochore Dam1-DASH and inner kinetochore CBF3 complexes are required for Cse4 localization to that site. Furthermore, the natural kinetochore also requires the outer kinetochore proteins for full Cse4 localization. Our results suggest that Cse4 localization at a functional kinetochore does not require the recognition of a specific DNA sequence by the CBF3 complex; rather, its localization depends on stable interactions among kinetochore proteins.
Treatment of Sexual Minority Youth: Ethical Considerations for Professionals in Psychology

Treatment of sexual minority youth presents psychologists with a number of challenging ethical considerations. The APA Ethics Code is a valuable resource for addressing these issues, but psychologists require additional guidance in order to provide ethical treatment. This article provides relevant background, an overview of the ethical considerations of treating sexual minority youth, and recommendations to improve upon the current state of awareness and available resources. Psychologists must continually strive to improve our understanding of ethical decisions around treatment, training, and research that will serve to address this vulnerable population's unmet mental health needs.
Comparison of the effect of butylated hydroxytoluene on N-nitrosomethylurea and 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced mammary tumors

Abstract The antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) when fed at a level of 0.3% in a defined semi-purified diet was found to decrease mammary tumor incidence in female Sprague-Dawley rats induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz[ a ]-anthracene (DMBA). However, no effect of BHT on tumor incidence was seen in animals consuming the same diet, under identical experimental conditions, but treated with the carcinogen nitrosomethylurea (NMU). Differences in effectiveness of BHT as a tumor inhibitor in the 2 model systems, and thoughts as to a possible mechanism of action with regard to BHT are discussed.
Genotype-phenotype correlations in disorders of peroxisome biogenesis.

Genetically determined human peroxisomal disorders are subdivided into two major categories: disorders of peroxisome biogenesis (PBD), in which the organelle is not formed normally, and those that involve a single peroxisomal enzyme. Twelve PBD have been identified, and the molecular defects have been defined in 10. All involve defects in the import of proteins into the organelle. Factors required for this import are now referred to as peroxins (PEX) and form the basis of a new and preferred classification system. The PBD are associated with four clinical phenotypes, named before their association with the organelle was recognized: Zellweger syndrome (ZS), neonatal adrenoleukodystrophy (NALD), infantile Refsum disease (IRD), and rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata (RCDP). The first three are associated with 9 of the 10 PEX defects that have been defined so far, and represent a clinical continuum with variant severity, with ZS the most severe, NALD intermediate, and IRD the least severe. RCDP is associated with PEX7. Genotype-phenotype correlations are complicated by the fact that the clinical manifestations of the ZS-NALD-IRD continuum can be mimicked by disorders that affect single enzymes of peroxisomal fatty acid oxidation, and PEX7 by disorders of plasmalogen synthesis enzymes. Furthermore, clinical manifestations of each of the PEX disorders may vary. Phenotypic expression varies with the nature of the mutation, the milder phenotypes being associated with mutations that do not abolish function completely, or with mosaicism. Definition of the molecular defects is of great value for genetic counseling and may be of aid in establishing prognosis.
Production and Extended Spawning of Cultured White Bass Broodstock

Abstract Our research focused on the development of domesticated broodstock of white bass Morone chrysops to reduce or eliminate the dependence of public and private hatcheries on wild-caught fish. Juveniles, obtained from spawning wild white bass, were reared to a mature size in an outdoor tank system under ambient environmental conditions. At 1 year of age, a few males were mature, and by 2 years of age all males and females were mature. Females were induced to ovulate with human chorionic gonadotropin (550 IU/kg) and then strip-spawned. Mean estimated egg production was 98,273 eggs/kg for 2-year-old fish and 127,805 eggs/kg for 3-year-old fish. Holding mature fish in reduced water temperatures extended the spawning period by 3 months. The use of cultured white bass broodstock should facilitate hatchery operations for stocking public waters and for hybrid striped bass aquaculture.
Theory for optimal test plans for the random fatigue-limit model

This article presents methodology for planning life tests based on the random fatigue-limit model (RFLM). The RFLM describes the relationship between fatigue life and the applied load in the presence of fatigue limits. A standardization of the RFLM is presented, and corresponding expressions for the elements of the Fisher information matrix are given. Different test plan criteria that express various objectives that the practitioner may have in conducting experiments under the RFLM are discussed. These criteria include estimation of life quantiles, estimation of stress/strain levels that yield a specific life quantile, estimation of fatigue-limit quantiles, and D and Ds optimality. Equivalence theorems used to verify optimality of test plans are also presented. The methods are sufficiently general so they can be applied to criteria based on any function of the model parameters. They are demonstrated using a nickel-base superalloy experiment.
The Fate of the Commune

The Chinese people's commune, as we know it, is on its way out. The possibility of an across-the-board radical restructuring of the commune has been under discussion in Chinese political and academic circles for the past few years.' Carefully monitored keypoint-type experiments in decommunization have been conducted around the country. And the 1982 state constitution makes it clear that the distinctive feature of the people's commune-its merger of political, social, economic, and governmental functions within a single comprehensive organization-will be discontinued. There is to be a deliberate separation of economic authority and governmental power at the local level (zheng she fenkai). Township governments (xiang zhengfu), the rural local administrative form of the early 1950s, are to be reestablished to handle civil affairs and routine state administration (Zhang Youyu et al., 1982).2 The term "commune" will be preserved for the time being but will refer to the various collective economic enterprises, companies, shareholders' committees, service bureaus, market brokerage units, and corporate planning and management committees that are now taking shape in the
Radioimmunoassay of tissue steroids in adenocarcinoma of the prostate

Tissue steroid levels in 48 needle-biopsy samples of adenocarcinoma of the prostate were quantified by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Tissue levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), estradiol-17..beta.., and estrone were correlated with tumor stage, histologic grade, and patient response to endocrine therapy. All patients with well-differentiated carcinoma of the prostate had tissue DHT content greater than 2.0 ng/g while 35% of patients with moderately differentiated or poorly differentiated tumors had tissue DHT content less than 2.0 ng/g. DHT content appeared to be unrelated to tumor stage. Estradiol and estrone content correlated well with tumor grade but not with tumor stage. DHT levels were measured in 17 patients with symptomatic Stage D/sub 2/ carcinoma of the prostate. Thirteen patients with DHT content greater than 2.0 ng/g initially had an objective and/or subjective response to endocrine therapy. Four patients with tissue DHT levels below 2.0 ng/g had no response to hormonal therapy. Quantification of tissue DHT content by RIA is a promising method for predicting initial response to hormonal therapy in adenocarcinoma of the prostate.
Damage estimates and population trends of insects attacking seven macadamia cultivars in Hawaii.

Seven cultivars of smooth-shell macadamia, Macadamia integrifolia (Maiden & Betche), were examined for the level of insect damage at harvest and throughout a 13-mo period. The damage was caused primarily by the southern green stinkbug, Nezara viridula (L.) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), and Hypothenemus obscurus (F.) (Coleoptera: Scolytidae), with only minor damage caused by the koa seedworm-litchee fruit moth complex, Cryptophlebia illepida (Butler) and C. ombrodelta (Lower) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). The Hawaii Agriculture Experiment Station cultivars 816 and 856 had up to 86 and 75% of the kernels damaged by southern green stinkbug in September 1990, respectively, whereas the cultivar 800 (Makai) had a maximum of 5.5% damage during the entire 13mo the orchard was sampled. Populations of H. obscurus were highest from early summer to late fall, when up to 25% of the kernels were damaged. The koa seedworm was found to be restricted primarily to the husk, with damage levels to the kernel averaging <4%. The importance of insects in cultivar selection of macadamia in Hawaii is discussed.
Platelet-derived growth factor mediates tyrosine phosphorylation of the cytoplasmic domain of the low Density lipoprotein receptor-related protein in caveolae.

The low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor gene family represents a class of multifunctional, endocytic cell surface receptors. Recently, roles in cellular signaling have also emerged. For instance, the very low density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR) and the apolipoprotein receptor-2 (apoER2) function in a developmental signaling pathway that regulates the lamination of cortical layers in the brain and involves the activation of tyrosine kinases. Furthermore, the cytoplasmic domain of the LDL receptor-related protein (LRP) was found to be a substrate for the non-receptor tyrosine kinase Src, but the physiological significance of this phosphorylation event remained unknown. Here we show that tyrosine phosphorylation of LRP occurs in caveolae and involves the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor β and phosphoinositide 3-kinase. Receptor-associated protein, an antagonist of ligand binding to LRP, and apoE-enriched β-VLDL, a ligand for LRP, reduce PDGF-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of the LRP cytoplasmic domain. In the accompanying paper (Loukinova, E., Ranganathan, S., Kuznetsov, S., Gorlatova, N., Migliorini, M., Ulery, P. G., Mikhailenko, I., Lawrence, D. L., and Strickland, D. K. (2002) J. Biol. Chem. 277, 15499–15506) Loukinova et al.further demonstrate that one form of PDGF, PDGF-BB, binds specifically to LRP and that phosphorylation of LRP requires the activation of Src family kinases. Taken together, these findings provide a biochemical basis for a cellular signaling pathway that involves apoE and LRP.
Perceptions and Attitudes About Genetic Counseling Among Residents of a Midwestern Rural Area

Relatively few investigations of the public's perceptions and attitudes about genetic counseling exist, and most are limited to individuals at-risk for a specific disease. In this study 203 individuals from a Midwest rural area completed an anonymous survey assessing their familiarity with genetic counseling; perceptions of genetic counseling purpose, scope, and practice; attitudes toward genetic counseling/counselors; and willingness to use genetic counseling services. Although very few respondents were familiar with genetic counseling, most reported accurate perceptions and positive attitudes; mean ratings, however, showed less endorsement of trust in information provided by genetic counselors and less agreement that genetic counseling aligns with their values. Logistic regression indicated reported willingness to use genetic counseling services increased if respondents: had completed some college; rated their familiarity with genetic counseling as high; agreed with the statements: genetic counseling may be useful to someone with cancer in their family, genetic counseling is in line with my values, and genetic counselors advise women to get abortions when there is a problem; and disagreed with the statements: genetic counseling is only useful to a small group of people with rare diseases, and genetic counselors must receive a lot of special training. Additional findings, practice implications, and research recommendations are presented.
Comparison of 99mTc-teboroxime with thallium for myocardial imaging in the presence of a coronary artery stenosis.

BACKGROUNDThis study tested the hypotheses in the setting of a coronary artery stenosis that 1) planar 99mTc-teboroxime myocardial scans are capable of providing a good estimate of relative coronar...
Accelerated junctional rhythms during oral verapamil therapy

Abstract This study examined the frequency of atrioventricular (AV) dissociation and accelerated junctional rhythms in 59 patients receiving oral verapamil. Accelerated junctional rhythms and AV dissociation were frequent in patients with supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, particularly AV nodal reentry. Verapamil administration to these patients led to an asymptomatic increase in activity of these junctional pacemakers. In patients with varlous chest pain syndromes, verapamil neither increased the frequency of junctional rhythms nor suppressed their role as escape rhythms under physiologically appropriate circumstances.
Electro-clinical and imaging characteristics of focal cortical dysplasia: correlation with pathological subtypes.

Abstract Introduction Focal cortical dysplasia (CD) is a common cause of pharmacoresistant epilepsy. CD is due to abnormalities in neuronal migration, proliferation, and/or differentiation that result in four distinct pathological subtypes: 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B. In order to provide clinical correlation to these pathological subtypes, we reviewed the electro-clinical and imaging characteristics and surgical outcomes of the four pathological subtypes of CD. Methods We retrospectively reviewed patient data from epilepsy surgeries at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation between 1990 and 2002. Only those patients with the definite pathological diagnosis of isolated cortical dysplasia were included in the study (n = 145). Results Pathological subtypes 2A and 2B were predominantly frontal in location, and had a more severe epilepsy syndrome with lower intelligence quotient scores than subtypes 1A and 1B. Patients with subtype 1A FCD had less severe, later onset epilepsy that was predominantly located in the temporal lobe. Risk factors for epilepsy included febrile seizures for type 1A, head trauma for types 1A and 1B, and perinatal adverse events for type 2B. Type 2B demonstrated significantly more FLAIR signal abnormalities than the other groups. Sixty-three percent of patients overall had an Engel I outcome at 6 months follow-up. The best outcomes were in the 2B subtype, and in those who did not require an invasive EEG evaluation. Conclusions Clinically important differences exist between the pathological subtypes of CD, which may assist in their management, and provide further insight into their underlying pathophysiology.
Africa’s Prospects in the Obama Presidency

There is a lot of curiosity on the direction that the relationship between Africa and the United States, which has, at times, been hostile and disappointing, amusing and inspirational, will take because of Obama's unusual background. He is a product, and a beneficiary, of the success of anti-colonial and civil rights struggles in Africa and the United States although he has little first hand knowledge of those struggles either as a victim or a victimizer. With an African father and an American mother, he is the first African-American to become president. Essentially a child of two worlds, he prefers the world of America as opposed to that of Africa. Key words : Obama, Presidency, Africa, Expectations
Effect of pH on visualization of fatty acids as myelin figures in mouse adipose tissue by freeze-fracture electron microscopy

Abstract We studied the effect of pH on visualization of fatty acids as myelin figures in young mouse epididymal adipose tissue. Fatty acid content of the tissue was increased to 12.4 nmol/mg wet weight by treating the tissue with 380 μM isoproterenol at pH 7.4 for 15 min in the absence of glucose and albumin. Myelin figures were found in freeze-fracture replicas of isproterenol-treated tissue fixed with glutaraldehyde at pH 7.4 and then incubated and glycerinated at pH 8.1. Myelin figures were seen in replicas as concave or convex laminated sheets and long cylindrical multilamellar structures in fat cells and extracellular space. Myelin figures were sometimes seen in cells extending from the surface of intracellular lipid droplets, the site of lipolysis, to the cell surface and extracellular space. Myelin figures were not found in isoproterenol-treated tissue fixed at pH 7.4 and processed at pH 7.0. Smooth-surfaced droplets, instead, were found in these tissues in the extracellular space. Neither myelin figures nor smooth-surfaced droplets were found in tissues treated with insulin and glucose (to reduce fatty acid content to 1.4 nmol/mg), fixed at pH 7.4 and processed at either pH 8.1 or pH 7.0. Lowering pH of the media to 4.5 during processing of tissues treated with isoproterenol at pH 9.0 caused disappearance of myelin figures and appearance of smooth-surfaced droplets in the extracellular space. Myelin figures were found in replicas of tissue treated with isoproterenol for 15 min at pH 7.4, incubated 10 min at pH 8.4, quick-frozen and then freeze-fractured, indicating that formation of myelin figures was not dependent on glutaraldehyde fixation and glycerol infiltration of the tissue. Our findings show that excess fatty acids in adipose tissue can be visualized as myelin figures if the tissue is exposed to pH 8.1–9.0 and maintained at or above pH 7.4, or as smooth-surfaced droplets if the tissue is processed at pH 7.0 or 4.5. We conclude that myelin figures formed under these conditions are composed primarily of partially ionized fatty acids (acid-soaps), and that the smooth-surfaced droplets in the extracellular space are composed of un-ionized (protonated) fatty acids.
Preservation of Hypogastric Artery Blood Flow During Endovascular Aneurysm Repair of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm With Bilateral Common and Internal Iliac Artery Involvement: Utilization of Off-the-Shelf Stent-Graft Components

A 72-year-old male presented with a 7.4-cm abdominal aortic aneurysm with bilateral common and internal iliac involvement. To maintain pelvic perfusion, preservation of the patient’s left hypogastric artery (HA) was pursued. Two weeks after right HA embolization, endovascular repair of the patient’s aneurysms was performed using a branched endograft approach. A 22-mm main body bifurcated endograft was unsheathed and the proximal covered stent was removed. The contralateral gate was preloaded with a wire and catheter. The device was resheathed and placed in the left common iliac artery. The preloaded wire in the contralateral gate was snared from the right side, establishing through-and-through femoral access. A contralateral femoral sheath was advanced up and over the aortic bifurcation from the right side into the contralateral gate of the bifurcated endograft. The repair was bridged to the left HA using a balloon-expandable stent-graft, followed by standard endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Completion angiography demonstrated exclusion of patient’s aneurysms, without evidence of endoleak, and maintenance of pelvic blood flow through the left HA. The patient recovered without complication and was discharged home on postoperative day 4. This technique illustrates the technical feasibility of using a preloaded commercially available endograft to preserve HA blood flow and maintain pelvic perfusion during endovascular aortic aneurysm repair.
Observation of Magnetoreceptive Behavior in a Multicellular Magnetotactic Prokaryote in Higher than Geomagnetic Fields

The magnetotactic multicellular prokaryote (MMP), a motile aggregate of bacterial cells, is known to exhibit an unusual "ping-pong" motility in magnetic fields greater than the earth's field. This motility is characterized by rapid excursions, opposite the direction of an applied magnetic field, and slower returns along the direction of the magnetic field. We have carried out detailed observations of the time and spatial dependence of the ping-pong motility and find 1), the outward and return excursions exhibit a uniform deceleration and acceleration, respectively; 2), the probability per unit time of an MMP undergoing a ping-pong excursion increases monotonically with the field strength; and 3), the outward excursions exhibit a very unusual distance distribution which is dependent on the magnetic field strength. At any given field strength, a characteristic distance is observed, below which very few excursions occur. Beyond this distance, there is a rapid increase in the number of excursions with an exponentially decaying distribution. These observations cannot be explained by conventional magnetotaxis, i.e., a physical directing torque on the organism, and suggest a magnetoreceptive capability of the MMP.
Mechanism of Activation in Electron Transfer in Solution

THE velocity of electron transfer between a redox couple1–3 or between an electronic conductor and an ion in solution4 has been discussed in terms of the Landau-Born5 expression for the “electron solvation energy” in solution (the continuum solvent activation model). It is supposed6 that the charged particles receive energy from the classical librations of water molecules in a region of a few hundred A around the ion, in both the initial and final states. The energy transferred from these librators creates a situation in which a radiationless electron transfer can occur.
The economic contribution of volunteerism toward the value of our cultural inventory

Scholars for centuries have been investigating and debating what determines the value of a good or service. However, the market has chosen to ignore what has been categorized as nonmarket transactions such as volunteerism. This paper will examine the economic contribution of volunteerism and its impact on our cultural inventory. Economic literature reveals three possible alternative methods to calculating the dollar figure for non-compensated volunteerism. They are Opportunity Cost Approach, Value-Added Approach, and Market Price Equivalency Model. Has cultural volunteerism contributed to cultural inventory by providing an expansion of our knowledge of the past and understanding the future?
Broadband noise prediction when turbulence simulation is available—Derivation of Formulation 2B and its statistical analysis

We show that a simple modification of Formulation 1 of Farassat results in a new analytic expression that is highly suitable for broadband noise prediction when extensive turbulence simulation is available. This result satisfies all the stringent requirements, such as permitting the use of the exact geometry and kinematics of the moving body, that we have set as our goal in the derivation of useful acoustic formulas for the prediction of rotating blade and airframe noise. We also derive a simple analytic expression for the autocorrelation of the acoustic pressure that is valid in the near and far fields. Our analysis is based on the time integral of the acoustic pressure that can easily be obtained at any resolution for any observer time interval and digitally analyzed for broadband noise prediction. We have named this result as Formulation 2B of Farassat. One significant consequence of Formulation 2B is the derivation of the acoustic velocity potential for the thickness and loading terms of the Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings (FW-H) equation. This will greatly enhance the usefulness of the Fast Scattering Code (FSC) by providing a high fidelity boundary condition input for scattering predictions.
The perils of Perrin, in the hands of philosophers

The story of how Perrin’s experimental work established the reality of atoms and molecules has been a staple in (realist) philosophy of science writings (Wesley Salmon, Clark Glymour, Peter Achinstein, Penelope Maddy, …). I’ll argue that how this story is told distorts both what the work was and its significance, and draw morals for the understanding of how theories can be or fail to be empirically grounded.
The rhetoric of the American western myth

Expanding upon the Social Value Model of Rushing and Frentz, this essay argues that the fundamental values of the American Western myth exist in the paradoxical form of Individualism vs. Community. Four historical eras are discussed in terms of how the Western film rhetoric of each was patterned in response to threats to the myth. Early Westerns enacted a pattern of “dialectical emphasis” (of Community): classic Westerns, “dialectical reaffirmation “; sixties Westerns, “dialectical emphasis” (of Individualism). It is claimed that reaffirmation of the dialectical tension between the values best strengthens the archetype, and thus America's image of itself. In contrast, the current revival of Western rhetoric, as depicted in the political realm in the elections of Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, and in the popular culture realm in The Electric Horseman, Urban Cowboy.,and “Dallas,” enacts a pattern of dialectical pseudo‐synthesis, and thus is seriously subversive of the fundamental archetype.
On the critical exponent for reaction-diffusion equations

In this paper we study the initial-boundary value problem for u t =Δu+ h(t) u p with homogeneous Dirichlet boundary conditions, where h(t)∼t q for large t. Let s * ≔ sup {s ¦ ∃ positive solutions w of u t =Δu such that $$\mathop {\lim \sup }\limits_{t \to \infty } t^s \parallel w( \cdot ,t)\parallel _\infty < \infty \}$$ . Then for p * ≔ 1+(q+1)/s * we show: If p>p *, there are global positive solutions that decay to zero uniformly for t→∞. If 1<p<p *, then all nontrivial solutions blow up in finite time. We determine p * for some conical domains in R 2 and R 3. A similar result is derived for a bounded domain if h(t)∼e βt for large t.
Influence of 2-4 Dinitrophenol on Liver Lipids of the White Mouse:

SummaryUnder the stress of increased metabolic rate, due to dinitrophenol injection, liver phospholipid and cholesterol are decreased. These changes are consistent with the belief that at least part of the phospholipid and cholesterol of the liver are important in fat metabolism.The authors wish to express their thanks to Dr. W. R. Bloor for his advice on this problem.
TNFα Signaling in Depression and Anxiety: Behavioral Consequences of Individual Receptor Targeting

Background Increased serum levels of TNF α and other pro-inflammatory cytokines have been found in patients with major depression and several other psychiatric conditions. In rodents, these cytokines produce symptoms commonly referred to as "sickness behavior." Some of these, including reduced feeding and decreased social and exploratory behavior, are reminiscent of those seen in depressed patients. Interpretation of these effects is complicated by the malaise caused by acute injections of pro-inflammatory cytokines, however. Thus, it is unclear whether cytokines are involved in the etiology of depressive symptoms. Methods We used a panel of behavioral assays to assess TNFR1 −/− and TNFR2 −/− mice for anxiety and depression-like behaviors. Results We show that deletion of either TNFR1 or TNFR2 leads to an antidepressant-like response in the forced swim test and that mice lacking TNFR2 demonstrate a hedonic response in a sucrose drinking test compared with wildtype littermates. In addition, deletion of TNFR1 leads to decreased fear conditioning. There were no differences in behavior in anxiety tests for either null mutant. Conclusions These results are consistent with the hypothesis that TNF α can induce depression-like symptoms even in the absence of malaise and demonstrate that both receptor subtypes can be involved in this response.
Entrepreneurship and Spirituality: Integration of Spirituality into the Workplace

This qualitative exploratory study is based on interviews with 35 entrepreneurs on spirituality and work. Specific questions included (1) What visible actions and behaviors do entrepreneurs employ to espouse spirituality in their organizations, especially with employees, suppliers and customers? (2) How do entrepreneurs define spirituality at work? (3) How do entrepreneurs integrate personal spiritual values into their organization's culture? Information from the interviews was organized using Atlas.ti software, resulting in an interesting conceptual framework of spirituality at work. All entrepreneurs who embraced spirituality found a way to integrate it into relationships with their employees, customers and suppliers. Spiritual entrepreneurs appear to make a conscious effort to develop actions and initiatives to bring spirituality to those people and communities with whom they work. Entrepreneurs with religious beliefs were slightly less likely than others to say they bring personal spirituality to the ...
Anxiety and the Development of Alcoholism: Clinical and Scientific Issues

Theories concerning the etiology of alcoholism and commonly held beliefs suggest that anxiolytic effects of alcohol may be important in the development of problematic drinking. The effect of alcohol on anxiety has been studied through animal models, human experiments, and clinical observation. Human experiments have demonstrated that acute alcohol administration has anxiolytic effects. However, these effects depend on dose, the circumstances of administration, and subject characteristics. Systematic clinical observations show that anxiety disorders often precede and may contribute to alcohol abuse and dependence. Research is needed to determine the impact of anxiety symptoms on relapse and implications for treatment.
Molecular markers mature – and enlighten evolution

Molecular approaches now pervade organismal biology, allowing explanations of previously insoluble problems and revealing exciting new paths of enquiry. This is also leading to the closer integration of somewhat disparate disciplines, and in particular those of molecular genetics, population biology, ecology and evolution, and there are few, if any, areas under the broad span of natural history that are not benefiting significantly. This book is intended to serve as 'an educational tool and stimulus for students, and an extensive reference guide for practicing researchers', and seeks to 'document how molecular markers reveal otherwise hidden aspects of behavior, natural history, ecology and the evolutionary histories of plants, animals, and microbes in the wild'. Its achievements are considerable, both in explanatory power and conceptual depth.
Designing and Implementing an Information Literacy Instruction Outcomes Assessment Program

As information literacy instruction outcomes assessment in academic libraries continues to increase as a key indicator of pedagogical value both within libraries and throughout their parent institutions, the call for the design and implementation of such assessment continues to rise as well. Ideally, this process is supported with adequate time, funding, and personnel. The reality, however, is not always so accommodating. This case study relates the Brooklyn Campus Library of Long Island University's experience with developing a start-from-scratch outcomes assessment of information literacy instruction in its undergraduate core curriculum.
The Textbook and Three Content-Area Teachers.

Abstract This study explored the uses of textbooks by three secondary school content‐area teachers. Participant‐observation and open‐ended interview methodology were used to gather data during, between, and after classes in an attempt to discover these three teachers’ perspectives on textbook use. Data included field notes, instructional materials, and transcriptions of audio‐taped interviews. Inductive analysis of data suggested that texts were used explicitly as information and activity sources. However, implicit messages sent by actual use suggested otherwise; there were means other than text use for students in these classes to gain needed information. Teachers’ explanations about their manner of textbook use seemed related to such differing concerns as need to cover curricula and their perceptions of themselves as teachers. Teachers’ explanations and observations combined suggested an overall ambiguity in textbook use that may be perceived by students and may confuse them. These conclusions support N...
MEMS feedback control using through-wafer optical device monitoring

As microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) become widely implemented, the application of closed-loop control methods to MEMS will lead to higher degrees of certainty and reliability of microelectromechanical operation in physically demanding environments. By including planar diffractive optics in these systems, an optical method of determining MEMS microstructure position that is fully decoupled from the means of mechanical actuation can be realized. This paper presents the result of initial research evaluating both open and closed-loop nonlinear proportional-integral-differential (PID) control routines using a 1.3 micrometers wavelength through-wafer free-space optical probe to obtain a position signal from a lateral comb resonator fabricated using Chronos Integrated Microsystems' Multi-User MEMS Process service. The implementation of sliding control methods is illustrated through simulation results, and the design considerations for a proposed integrated optical monitoring architecture is presented.
Modeling DNA Thermodynamics under Torsional Stress

Negatively twisted DNA is essential to many biological functions. Due to torsional stress, duplex DNA can have local, sequence-dependent structural defects. In this work, a thermodynamic model of DNA was built to qualitatively predict the local sequence-dependent mechanical instabilities under torsional stress. The results were compared to both simulation of a coarse-grained model and experiment results. By using the Kirkwood superposition approximation, we built an analytical model to represent the free energy difference ΔW of a hydrogen-bonded basepair between the B-form helical state and the basepair opened (or locally melted) state, within a given sequence under torsional stress. We showed that ΔW can be well approximated by two-body interactions with its nearest-sequence-neighbor basepairs plus a free energy correction due to long-range correlations. This model is capable of rapidly predicting the position and thermodynamics of local defects in a given sequence. The result qualitatively matches with an in vitro experiment for a long DNA sequence (>4000 basepairs). The 12 parameters used in this model can be further quantitatively refined when more experimental data are available.
Factors associated with duration of survival in Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract With a computerized data base, a data retrieval system, and a computer program using the actuarial method of life-table analysis, we compared survival rates in different subgroups of patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT; n = 199). Men ( n = 71) had a shorter duration of survival than women ( n = 128), with 500-day survival (mean ± sem) 84 ± 5% vs. 99 ± 3%, p p 20; n = 50), indicating more severe behavioral impairment, had lower survival rates at 500 days than patients with low scores ( n = 65) (80 ± 6% vs. 95 ± 3%, p
Intermolecular condensation products formed during the pyrolysis of peptides

Abstract Mass Spectrometry (MS) analysis of pyrolysis products of simple peptides has revealed several non-volatile thermal degradation products at masses lower than the precursor peptide. In addition to these products, many other signals were also observed at higher masses than the precursor peptide, and their characterization is the focus of this study. Here we report on the observation of homo and hetero condensation peptide products formed during the pyrolysis of peptides. The observed peptide condensation products are formed between two, three or even four peptides. Tandem MS (MS/MS) analyses of these products showed that C-terminal to N-terminal intermolecular bonding is preferred during pyrolysis when combining two peptides, rather than involving crosslinking between basic and acidic side chain groups like arginine and aspartic acid. These observations are rationalized by steric hindrance effect and known pKa values of the peptide C- and N-termini and amino acid side groups like aspartic acid and arginine. Pyrolysis of a standard N-acetylated peptide showed no detectable condensation and/or crosslinked products, even in peptides with basic side groups, providing further evidence for the C-terminus to N-terminus intermolecular bonding between peptides under pyrolytic conditions.
Flexoelectric nano-generator: Materials, structures and devices

Abstract Flexoelectricity, as a fundamental electromechanical coupling effect between electric polarization and mechanical strain gradient, or vice versa between electric polarization gradient and mechanical gradient, exists in various categories of materials including solid materials, liquid crystals, polymers, and biomembranes. Dependence of electric or mechanical gradients on geometry requires the adoption of specific structures for different flexoelectric mode applications. Scaling effect associated with gradient suggests that flexoelectric effect can be more significant in micro/nano systems, comparable to or even exceed piezoelectricity. In this review, flexoelectricity in those studied materials will be summarized and compared. Applications in sensors, actuators, capability of tuning the ferroelectric thin film properties, and roles in bio-system mechanosensitivity and mechanotranduction of flexoelectricity will be introduced respectively. Especially, flexoelectricity nano-generator enlightens a new technique for energy harvesting. Comparison with piezoelectric nano-generator suggests that flexoelectric counterpart can yield enhanced performance with specific nanostructures and provide a wider materials choice.
Reductive Dissolution of Goethite and the Subsequent Transformation of 4-Cyanonitrobenzene: Role of Ascorbic Acid and pH

There is a widespread interest in understanding the reactivity of organic pollutants in reducing systems. The reductive transformation of 4-cyanonitrobenzene (4-CNB) was examined in batch suspensions of goethite (α-FeOOH) and ascorbic acid from pH 6–8. Experimental results demonstrate that ascorbic acid promotes the reductive dissolution of goethite, which in turn, facilitates the reductive transformation of 4-CNB at all pH values examined. 4-CNB transformation rates are dependent on ascorbic acid concentration, oxide loading, and pH. In goethite suspensions, both ferric oxide dissolution and ferrous iron adsorption occur simultaneously. Generally, reductive transformation of 4-CNB by ferrous iron in suspensions of geothite and ascorbic acid would be unlikely at neutral pH because this condition is less favorable for the reductive dissolution of ferric oxides, although favorable for Fe(II) adsorption. However, we find that neutral pH values provide suitable conditions for the reductive dissolution of goethite and the subsequent transformation of 4-CNB by adsorbed Fe(II). Goethite suspensions in which the pH was pre-equilibrated at pH 4, and then increased to pH 6, 7, or 8, were more effective at producing increased Fe(II) concentrations and resulted in faster transformations of 4-CNB. The results of this study provide evidence that naturally occurring organic acids play an indirect role in the transformation of reducible organic pollutants.
Measuring the Effects and Effectiveness of Interactive Advertising

ABSTRACTAlthough interactive advertising is not new, its scale, scope and immediacy has increased substantially with the diffusion of new technologies such as the Internet. The growth of interactive advertising highlights the role of the consumer in the determining the effects and effectiveness of advertising, while challenging traditional assumptions about how advertising works. The active role of the consumer in determining the effects of advertising has important implications for how the effects and effectiveness of advertising are measured and how various measures are interpreted. The present paper offers a discussion of these issues and compares and contrasts traditional notions regarding the measurement of advertising effects with notions that recognize the active role of the consumer in interacting with advertising and the advertiser. Implications for future research are discussed.
Detection of nitroxyl (HNO) by membrane inlet mass spectrometry.

Membrane inlet (or introduction) mass spectrometry (MIMS) was used to detect nitroxyl (HNO) in aqueous solution for the first time. The common HNO donors Angeli's salt (AS) and Piloty's acid (PA), along with a newly developed donor, 2-bromo-N-hydroxybenzenesulfonamide (2-bromo-Piloty's acid, 2BrPA), were examined by this technique. MIMS experiments revealed that under physiological conditions 2BrPA is an essentially pure HNO donor, but AS produces a small amount of nitric oxide (NO). In addition, MIMS experiments also confirmed that PA is susceptible to oxidation and NO production, but that 2BrPA is not as prone to oxidation.
Prostaglandin E2 increases cardiac fibroblast proliferation and increases cyclin D expression via EP1 receptor

Summary PGE 2 affects growth of many cell types. Thus, we hypothesized that PGE 2 would stimulate growth of cardiac fibroblasts. To test our hypothesis we used neonatal rat ventricular fibroblasts (NVF). RT-PCR demonstrated the presence of all 4 PGE 2 receptor (EPs) mRNAs in NVF. Using flow cytometry, we found that PGE 2 decreased the percentage of cells in G0/G1 and increased the number of cells in S phase. PGE 2 also increased expression of cyclin D3, a known regulator of the cell cycle and this effect was mimicked by the EP1/EP3 agonist sulprostone. Next, we found that treatment of NVF with PGE 2 increased phosphorylation of p42/44 MAPK and Akt and that PGE 2 -stimulation of cyclin D3 was antagonized with both a MEK inhibitor and a PI3 kinase inhibitor. In conclusion, PGE 2 stimulates cardiac fibroblast proliferation via EP1 and/or EP3, p42/44 MAPK and Akt-regulation of cyclin D3. These results may be relevant to cardiac fibrosis.
Readability: A Factor in Student Research?

Readability assessments of works cited in freshmen informative and argumentative speeches were performed with the Flesch-Kincaid Reading Grade Level and Flesch Reading Ease assessment tools available in Microsoft Word. Students selected their sources independently, and their sources were grouped as journals, magazines and newspapers, and websites, which were then subdivided by domain type. The wide range of readability scores in sources cited in freshman speeches raises questions related to college freshmen's reading abilities and how that affects student's selection of sources when performing research for class assignments.
Sector Dispersion and Stock Market Predictability

This paper investigates the lead/lag relationship between the variation of the 10 primary sector indexes (sector dispersion) with market returns and market volatility. The sample consists of U.S. data from January 1974 through December 2003. This study documents a statistically significant lead/lag relationship between sector dispersion and both market returns and market volatility. Asymmetry analysis reveals that high sector dispersion is a consistent predictor of market volatility. Dispersion is found to be an effective predictor of bear market volatility, and both bull market and bear market returns.