cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impaired learning in rats in a 14-unit T-maze by 7-nitroindazole, a neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, is attenuated by the nitric oxide donor, molsidomine

In previous experiments, it was demonstrated that systemic or central administration of the nitric oxide synthase (NO synthase) inhibitor, NG-nitro-L-arginine (N-Arg), produced dose-dependent learning impairments in rats in a 14-unit T-maze; and that sodium nitroprusside, a NO donor, could attenuate the impairment. Since N-Arg is not specific for neuronal NO synthase and produces hypertension, it is possible that effects on the cardiovasculature may have contributed to the impaired maze performance. In the present experiment, we have investigated the maze performance of 3-4 months old male Fischer-344 rats following treatment with 7-nitroindazole, a NO synthase inhibitor that is selective for neuronal NO synthase and does not produce hypertension. In addition, we examined the effects of the NO donor, molsidomine, which is much longer acting than sodium nitroprusside. Rats were pretrained to avoid footshock in a straight runway and received training in a 14-unit T-maze 24 h later. In an initial dose-response study, rats received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of either 7-nitroindazole (25, 50, or 65 mg/kg) or peanut oil 30 min prior to maze training. 7-nitroindazole produced significant, dose-dependent maze acquisition deficits, with 65 mg/kg producing the greatest learning impairment. This dose of 7-nitroindazole had no significant effect on systolic blood pressure. Following the dose-response study, rats were given i.p. injections of either 7-nitroindazole (70 mg/kg) plus saline, 7-nitroindazole (70 mg/kg) plus the NO donor, molsidomine (2 or 4 mg/kg), or peanut oil plus saline as controls. Both doses of molsidomine significantly attenuated the learning deficit induced by 7-nitroindazole relative to controls. These findings represent the first evidence that impaired learning produced by inhibition of neuronal NO synthase can be overcome by systemic administration of a NO donor.
Does the Heavy Electron Maintain its Integrity at Quantum Critical Point

This talk will discuss non-Fermi liquid and quantum critical behavior in heavy fermion materials, focussing on the mechanism by which the electron mass appears to diverge at the quantum critical point. Is the quantum critical point merely a case of electron diffraction off a quantum critical spin density wave, or does it involve a fundamental break-down in the composite nature of the heavy electron place at the quantum critical point? We discuss the nature of the critical langrangian and show that the Hall constant changes continuously in the first scenario, but may "jump" discontinuously at a quantum critical point where the composite character of the electron quasiparticles changes.
An improved method for preparing phenoxyacetic acids‐1‐14C

High radiopurity substituted phenoxyacetic acids-1-14C were synthesized by the hydrolysis of their ethyl esters which were prepared from ethyl bromoacetate-1-14C and the appropriate sodium phenolate.
Effect of storage conditions on lactate dehydrogenase released from perfused hearts

Abstract Background Release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a widely used marker of tissue damage. A review of the literature indicates that after collection of coronary effluents from hearts, a variety of storage conditions have been utilized prior to measurement of LDH activity. The purpose of this study was to determine whether storage conditions reported in the literature affect LDH activity. Methods Isolated rat hearts perfused with Krebs–Henseleit buffer (KHB) were subjected to 30 min of global ischemia followed by normoxic reperfusion to generate tissue damage and elevate LDH release. Coronary effluents were collected and stored at 4 °C, 23 °C, −20 °C, and −80 °C prior to measurement of LDH activity. Results After 24 h no decline in LDH occurred at 4 °C storage ( P >0.05), but a 42% decline occurred at 23 °C ( P P P Conclusions Short-term storage in Krebs–Henseleit buffer for 24 h at 4 °C does not affect LDH activity and frozen storage should be avoided.
Hand complications in children from digital sucking

Digital sucking is common in children. Although orthodontic complications have been reported, hand complications of digital sucking are seldom described. Five patients are reported; two had digital deformities and three had infections. Deformities of the digits were improved with splinting. Infections required surgical drainage followed by postoperative splint protection to prevent digital sucking. Splinting prohibited sucking in four of five patients.
Kinetic Characterization of Compound I Formation in the Thermostable Cytochrome P450 CYP119

The kinetics of formation and breakdown of the putative active oxygenating intermediate in cytochrome P450, a ferryl-oxo-(pi) porphyrin cation radical (Compound I), have been analyzed in the reaction of a thermostable P450, CYP119, with meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid (m-CPBA). Upon rapid mixing of m-CPBA with the ferric form of CYP119, an intermediate with spectral features characteristic of a ferryl-oxo-(pi) porphyrin cation radical was clearly observed and identified by the absorption maxima at 370, 610, and 690 nm. The rate constant for the formation of Compound I was 3.20 (+/-0.3) x 10(5) m(-1) s(-1) at pH 7.0, 4 degrees C, and this rate decreased with increasing pH. Compound I of CYP119 decomposed back to the ferric form with a first order rate constant of 29.4 +/- 3.4 s(-1), which increased with increasing pH. These findings form the first kinetic analysis of Compound I formation and decay in the reaction of m-CPBA with ferric P450.
Longitudinal cortical development during adolescence and young adulthood in autism spectrum disorder: increased cortical thinning but comparable surface area changes.

Objective Prior reports suggest that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with atypically excessive early brain growth. Recent cross-sectional studies suggest that later cortical development during adolescence/adulthood might also be aberrant, although longitudinal designs are required to evaluate atypical growth trajectories. The present study sought to examine longitudinal changes in cortical thickness and surface area among adolescents and young adults with ASD. Method Two high-resolution anatomic magnetic resonance imaging scans approximately 2 years apart were acquired from 17 adolescents with ASD and 18 typically developing (TD) adolescents, matched on age (range = 14–24 years), IQ, sex ratio, and handedness (70 scans total). The FreeSurfer image analysis suite was used to quantify longitudinal changes in cortical thickness and surface area. Results Accelerated cortical thinning for the ASD group as compared to the TD group was found in 2 areas in the left hemisphere, the posterior portion of ventral temporal cortex and superior parietal cortex (cluster corrected p Conclusion The present longitudinal study extends prior cross-sectional research by demonstrating increased cortical thinning (in portions of temporal and parietal cortex) but comparable surface area growth rates in participants with ASD compared to TD controls during adolescence and into young adulthood. These findings provide further evidence for atypical cortical development beyond the early years in ASD, marked by increased cortical thinning in late adolescence/young adulthood.
The cardiac effects of adenosine

Etude de mecanisme d'action de l'adenosine sur differentes cellules cardiaques et examen de son metabolisme. Discussion du role possible de l'adenosine comme mediateur des fonctions cellulaires cardiaques. Potentiel de developpement de traitement a base d'adenosine par meilleure connaissance du systeme adenosinique cardiaque et de la pathogenese des troubles du rythme cardiaque
Hormonal aspects of oögenesis in the flies Phormia regina and Sarcophaga bullata

Abstract The corpora allata (CA) and median neurosecretory cells (MNC) of Phormia regina and Sarcophaga bullata become active with increasing age of the fly, on a diet of sugar alone. To prevent or retard oogenesis the CA or MNCs must be removed shortly after emergence, with subsequent protein meals. Topical JH application partially compensates for CA or MNC removal. This shows that the MNC activate the CA, and not vice versa. The trauma of either operation slightly depresses egg development. Injection of ecdysone into both species in the stage of initial yolk deposition causes the primary oocytes to degenerate. This leads to development of the penultimate oocytes. Older and younger egg stages are not sensitive to ecdysone. In P. regina the application of JH to females with developing primary oocytes stimulates yolk deposition in the penultimate oocytes.
Performance persistence and management skill in nonconventional bond mutual funds

Abstract Recent empirical research has identified a tendency for equity mutual funds to provide consistent performance relative to other funds over time. Studies of bond funds have centered around investment grade, straight bonds and have concluded that fund managers outperform indexes on a gross (although not net) basis, but that performance is hampered by high expense levels. We examine nonconventional bond funds (high-yield bonds, global issues and convertible bonds) and find that short-term performance persistence is present, but limited to the high-yield bond subsample. Fund managers are unable to distinguish themselves in the long term, despite the diverse nature of the funds they oversee.
Interpretation Of Geometric Structure From Image Boundaries

General constraints on the interpretation of image boundaries are described and implemented. We illustrate the use of these constraints to carry out geometric interpretation of images up to the volumetric level. A general coincidence assumption is used to derive suggestive but incomplete interpretations for local features. A reasoning system is described which can use these suggestive hypotheses to derive consistent global interpretations, while maintaining the ability to remove the implications of hypotheses which are disproved in the face of further evidence. An important aspect of interpretation is the classification of image boundaries (intensity discontinuities) into those caused by geometric, reflectance, or illumination discontinuities. These interact with other hypotheses regarding occlusion by solid objects, the direction of illumination, aspects of object geometry, and the production of illumination discontinuities by geometric discontinuities. Although only a subset of the constraints and system design features have been implemented to date, we demonstrate the successful interpretation of some simulated image boundaries up to the volumetric level, including the construction of a three-space model.© (1981) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
X-ray tube voltage and image quality in adult and pediatric CT

The purpose of this study was to investigate how tissue x-ray attenuation coefficients, and their uncertainties, vary with x-ray tube voltage in different sized patients. Anthropomorphic phantoms (newborn, 10 year old, adult) were scanned a GE LightSpeed scanner at four x-ray tube voltages. Measurements were made of tissue attenuation in the head, chest and abdomen regions, as well as the corresponding noise values. Tissue signal to noise ratios (SNR) were obtained by dividing the average attenuation coefficient by the corresponding standard deviation. Soft tissue attenuation coefficients, relative to water, showed little variation with patient location or x-ray voltage (< 0.5%), but increasing the x-ray tube voltage from 80 to 140 kV reduced bone x-ray attenuation by ~14%. All tissues except adult bone showed a reduction of noise with increasing x-ray tube voltage (kV); the noise was found to be proportional to kVn and the average value of n for all tissues was -1.19 ± 0.57. In pediatric patients at a constant x-ray tube voltage, SNR values were approximately independent of the body region, but the adult abdomen soft tissue SNR values were ~40% lower than the adult head. SNR values in the newborn were more than double the corresponding SNR soft tissue values in adults. SNR values for lung and bone were generally lower than those for soft tissues. For soft tissues, increasing the x-ray tube voltage from 80 to 140 kV increased the SNR by an average of ~90%. Data in this paper can be used to help design CT imaging protocols that take into account patient size and diagnostic imaging task.
Contribution of Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy to the Evaluation of Children with Unexplained Developmental Delay

Developmental delay (DD) in children is a common socioeconomic problem with a prevalence of 1-2%. The cause of DD in children is often unknown, and magnetic resonance imaging plays an important role in evaluating children with DD, estimating long-term prognosis, and guiding therapeutic options. The aim of our study on children with DD was to elucidate 1) whether magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) reveals abnormalities in cerebral metabolism and 2) whether there is a correlation between the cognitive performance and the concentration of brain metabolites, especially N-acetylaspartate (NAA), named in the literature a neuronal marker. Using proton MRS of deep gray and central white matter, we measured concentrations of brain metabolites in 48 children, who were aged 1 mo to 13 y and had unexplained DD [developmental quotient (DQ) between <50 and 85] and normal magnetic resonance imaging examinations, and compared them with those of 23 age-matched normal control children. Children with DD were divided into three groups: mild (DQ 76-85), moderate (DQ 51-75), and severe (DQ <50). We found no significant differences in metabolite concentrations, neither among the three groups of children with DD nor between patients and age-matched normal control children. Independent of the degree of mental retardation, the NAA concentrations of handicapped patients and normal children were comparable. We conclude that 1) brain metabolites, especially NAA, in children with unexplained DD are within normal limits, and 2) in most cases, proton MRS adds little information concerning cause of unexplained DD.
Evaluating social skills of sexual aggressives

A frequently overlooked element of any rapist or child molester's behavior is his social skills. We know that some sexual aggressives are very adept at interacting socially with a female, expressing themselves to others, requesting others to change their behavior, and accurately empathizing or appreciating the feeling states of others. On the other hand, some sexual aggressives are unable to maintain an adequate social interaction with an adult female, are unable to assert themselves appropriately with others, and, finally, some are cold and indifferent to others' feelings. In the past, these skills deficits have been viewed as characteristic of aggressives, but no formal means of evaluating or treating these deficits was available.In recent years behavioral approaches have begun to identify those behaviors that reflect good social skills. Concomitantly, skills training, a reeducative approach to teaching new skills, has been applied to a diverse group of clients, ranging from shy college students to inap...
Direct identification of the site of binding on the chaperone SecB for the amino terminus of the translocon motor SecA

Protein export mediated by the general secretory Sec system in Escherichia coli proceeds by a dynamic transfer of a precursor polypeptide from the chaperone SecB to the SecA ATPase motor of the translocon and subsequently into and through the channel of the membrane-embedded SecYEG heterotrimer. The complex between SecA and SecB is stabilized by several separate sites of contact. Here we have demonstrated directly an interaction between the N-terminal residues 2 through 11 of SecA and the C-terminal 13 residues of SecB by isothermal titration calorimetry and analytical sedimentation velocity centrifugation. We discuss the unusual binding properties of SecA and SecB in context of a model for transfer of the precursor along the pathway of export.
Nutrition and income from molluscs today imply vulnerability to ocean acidification tomorrow

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from human industrial activities are causing a progressive alteration of seawater chemistry, termed ocean acidification, which has decreased seawater pH and carbonate ion concentration markedly since the Industrial Revolution. Many marine organisms, like molluscs and corals, build hard shells and skeletons using carbonate ions, and they exhibit negative overall responses to ocean acidification. This adds to other chronic and acute environmental pressures and promotes shifts away from calcifier-rich communities. In this study, we examine the possible implications of ocean acidification on mollusc harvests worldwide by examining present production, consumption and export and by relating those data to present and future surface ocean chemistry forecast by a coupled climate-ocean model (Community Climate System 3.1; CCSM3). We identify the ‘transition decade’ when future ocean chemistry will distinctly differ from that of today (2010), and when mollusc harvest levels similar to those of the present cannot be guaranteed if present ocean chemistry is a significant determinant of today’s mollusc production. We assess nations’ vulnerability to ocean acidification-driven decreases in mollusc harvests by comparing nutritional and economic dependences on mollusc harvests, overall societal adaptability, and the amount of time until the transition decade. Projected transition decades for individual countries will occur 10‐ 50 years after 2010. Countries with low adaptability, high nutritional or economic dependence on molluscs, rapidly approaching transition decades or rapidly growing populations will therefore be most vulnerable to ocean acidification-driven mollusc harvest decreases. These transition decades suggest how soon nations should implement strategies, such as increased aquaculture of resilient species, to help maintain current per capita mollusc harvests.
Evidence that the modulation of membrane-associated protein kinase C activity by an endogenous inhibitor plays a role in N1E-115 murine neuroblastoma cell differentiation.

Abstract: Murine neuroblastoma cells, N1E-115, were induced to differentiate into neuron-like cells by serum deprivation for 18 h. As previous studies have shown that the suppression of protein kinase C (PKC) activity by selective inhibitors or neutralizing antibodies induces neuroblastoma cells to differentiate, we tested the hypothesis that serum deprivation may cause a rapid loss in membrane PKC activity that occurs well before the morphological changes that are characteristic of cell differentiation. A significant reduction in particulate (membrane) PKC activity was indeed observed within 3 h of serum withdrawal when enzyme activity was measured in intact native membranes by the recently described in vitro “direct” assay. This rapid reduction in enzyme activity was confirmed by the decreased phosphorylation of the MARCKS protein, an endogenous PKC-selective substrate, in intact cells. The decrease in membrane PKC activity occurred without any loss in the amount of membrane-associated enzyme, suggesting that some factor(s) resident in neuroblastoma membranes was suppressing PKC activity. Indeed, results indicate the presence of an endogenous inhibitor of PKC tightly associated with neuroblastoma membranes. This inhibitory activity increased in the membranes of cells subjected to serum deprivation, raising the possibility that it was likely responsible for the decline in membrane PKC activity in differentiating N1E-115 cells. Preliminary characterization indicated that the inhibitory activity is a protein and is localized mainly in the membrane fraction. Thus, these results demonstrate directly that endogenous inhibitor can regulate membrane-associated PKC activity in cells and thereby modulate PKC-related neuronal functions.
Do Managers Extract Economically Significant Rents Through Tax Aggressive Transactions

Two influential papers in the tax avoidance literature (Desai and Dharmapala 2006 and Desai et al. 2007) argue that tax avoidance can be used to facilitate managerial rent extraction from shareholders. Even though many subsequent papers have asserted a relation between tax avoidance and rent extraction, there is little empirical evidence to support that assertion. The most direct large sample empirical evidence in support of this theory comes from Russia, which has a much different regulatory and corporate governance environment than the United States, but subsequent studies relying on this theory focus on US firms. I test for large sample evidence that tax avoidance is associated with economically significant managerial rent extraction from shareholders in the US. I am unable to provide evidence that tax avoidance is related to managerial rent extraction on average. I conclude that researchers should exercise care when making predictions that assume a relation between rent extraction and tax avoidance by carefully considering whether this theory is appropriate for the firms in their sample.
Effects of mast cells on the behavior of isolated heart fibroblasts: modulation of collagen remodeling and gene expression.

The extracellular matrix plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of the vertebrate heart. Changes in the accumulation, composition, or organization of the extracellular matrix are known to deleteriously affect heart function. Mast cells are thought to stimulate collagen expression and fibroblast proliferation accompanying fibrosis in some organs; however, the effects of mast cells on the heart interstitium are largely unexplored. The present studies were carried out to determine the effects of mast cells on isolated heart fibroblasts. Several in vitro assays were used including collagen gel contraction to examine the effects of mast cells on the function of isolated fibroblasts. Neonatal heart fibroblasts were cultured either with mast cells, mast cell-conditioned medium, or mast cell extracts, and their ability to contract collagen gels measured. Results from these experiments indicated that mast cells inhibit heart fibroblast migration and contraction of 3-dimensional collagen gels. Further experiments indicated that incubation of neonatal heart fibroblasts with extracts of mast cells altered the expression of collagen, matrix metalloproteases, and matrix receptors of the integrin family. These studies suggest that mast cells play an important role in the regulation of the cardiac interstitial matrix. Further studies are warranted to determine the mechanisms whereby mast cells modulate fibroblast activity.
Solution–cathode glow discharge – optical emission spectrometry of a new design and using a compact spectrograph

A solution–cathode glow discharge is coupled to a compact spectrograph. Such a coupling results in a small, potentially portable instrument that can simultaneously detect a range of metals by optical emission spectrometry. Detection limits were calculated for Ag (1 ppb), Cd (2 ppb), Cu (8 ppb), Fe (40 ppb), Hg (20 ppb), Mg (3 ppb), Ni (12 ppb), Pb (10 ppb) and Se (3 ppm). These values are similar to those for an earlier, monochromator-based solution–cathode glow discharge system. All calibration curves showed good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.9994). Short-term precision ranged from 0.6–7%.
Driver license renewal policies and fatal crash involvement rates of older drivers, United States, 1986–2011

Older drivers experience elevated risk of motor vehicle crash involvement, injury, and death. Several states attempt to address these risks through driver license renewal policies; however, little is known about their effects. Data from 46 U.S. states from years 1986–2011 were examined. Associations between driver licensing policies and population-based fatal crash involvement rates of drivers aged 55 years and older, in 5-year age groups, were estimated using population-averaged negative binomial regression. Estimates were adjusted for seasonality, time trends, other traffic safety laws, and economic factors. Ratios of relative risks (RRR), which compared changes in fatal crash involvement rates of older drivers associated with changes in licensing policies to corresponding changes in fatal crashes of drivers ages 40–54, were computed to account for other possible sources of confounding. Mandatory in-person renewal was associated with a 31% reduction in the fatal crash involvement rates of drivers ages 85 and older (RRR: 0.69, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.48–0.97). When in-person renewal was not required, requiring drivers to pass a vision test was associated with a similar reduction for drivers ages 85+ (RRR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.49–0.85). When in-person renewal was required, however, requiring a vision test was not associated with any additional reduction, nor was requiring a knowledge test or an on-road driving test. Requiring more frequent license renewal and requiring healthcare providers to report concerns about patients’ driving ability to licensing authorities were not associated with statistically significant reductions in fatal crash involvement rates of older drivers. No policy examined was found to have a significant impact on fatal crash involvement of drivers younger than 85. Requiring drivers to renew their license in person, or to pass a vision test if not renewing in person, was associated with significant reductions in population-based fatal crash involvement rates for drivers ages 85 and older. The study could not determine how these effects were achieved, for example by specifically removing unsafe older drivers from the driving population or by fostering premature driving cessation. Other policies examined were not found to reduce fatal crash involvement rates of older drivers.
A 50-MHz multibit sigma-delta modulator for 12-b 2-MHz A/D conversion

The authors examine the application of oversampling techniques to analog-to-digital conversion at rates exceeding 1 MHz. A cascaded multibit sigma-delta ( Sigma Delta ) modulator that substantially reduces the oversampling ratio required for 12-b conversion while avoiding stringent component matching requirements is introduced. Issues concerning the design and implementation of the modulator are presented. At a sampling rate of 50 MHz and an oversampling ratio of 24, an implementation of the modulator in a 1- mu m CMOS technology achieves a dynamic range of 74 dB at a Nyquist conversion rate of 2.1 MHz. The experimental modulator is a fully differential circuit that operates from a single 5-V power supply and does not require calibration or component trimming. >
Using field data to assess model predictions of surface and ground fuel consumption by wildfire in coniferous forests of California

Inventories of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from wildfire provide essential information to the state of California, USA, and other governments that have enacted emission reductions. Wildfires can release a substantial amount of GHGs and other compounds to the atmosphere, so recent increases in fire activity may be increasing GHG emissions. Quantifying wildfire emissions however can be difficult due to inherent variability in fuel loads and consumption and a lack of field data of fuel consumption by wildfire. We compare a unique set of fuel data collected immediately before and after six wildfires in coniferous forests of California to fuel consumption predictions of the first-order fire effects model (FOFEM), based on two different available fuel characterizations. We found strong regional differences in the performance of different fuel characterizations, with FOFEM overestimating the fuel consumption to a greater extent in the Klamath Mountains than in the Sierra Nevada. Inaccurate fuel load inputs caused the largest differences between predicted and observed fuel consumption. Fuel classifications tended to overestimate duff load and underestimate litter load, leading to differences in predicted emissions for some pollutants. When considering total ground and surface fuels, modeled consumption was fairly accurate on average, although the range of error in estimates of plot level consumption was very large. These results highlight the importance of fuel load input to the accuracy of modeled fuel consumption and GHG emissions from wildfires in coniferous forests.
Configurational effects in the adsorption of HD on ZnO

Abstract HD adsorption on ZnO surfaces has been studied by infrared spectroscopy as a function of ZnO temperature. At 300 K, the configuration Zn(H)—O(D) is preferred. as expected on thermodynamic grounds. As the temperature is lowered, the configuration Zn(D)—O(H) becomes preferred on kinetic grounds. This behavior is consistent with a model in which the transition state for HD adsorption is characterized by nearly complete dissociation of the HD bond.
Observations on "K"-Factor of Rigid Urethane Foam— A Long-Term Study

Etude experimentale portant sur le coefficient K de la mousse d'urethane rigide, la mesure etant effectuee pour chaque echantillon par ASTM C-518 et sur une longue duree. Influence de differents parametres comme la composition, la temperature de stockage, etc., etude de l'existence d'une «valeur d'equilibre» et des conditions pour atteindre cette valeur
Microwave Interferometric Measurements of the Electron Density Generated by Sub-Picosecond 100 GW KrF Laser Pulses in Air

Time-resolved measurements of the electron density produced by sub-picosecond ~100 GW KrF laser lambda=248 nm) pulses in air have been made at pressures between ~10-2 and 103 Torr with a microwave interferometer operating at 9.5 GHz
CONFLICT, INTERFERENCE AND AGGRESSION: COMPUTER SIMULATION OF A SOCIAL PROCESS

Abstract : Programs can be writtenproduce results from field research and, based on these results, various situations which yield theoretically relevant data can be examined in detail. Simu lator programs appear to have two main advan tages: first, they permit utilization of the favorable characteristics of high-speed compu ters, that is, speed, accuracy, control of varia bles, etc.; second, and most important, they permit the researcher to test hypotheses de duced from theory. As experimentation progresses and experience accumulates, it should be possible to design and carry out highly sophisticated simulator programs. It is clear that simulation is not supposed to replace field research, but to supplement it. The increased usefulness of simulators will depend upon technological im provements in development of computers, but also, especially for social scientists, upon the in creasing accuracy and scope of social research in the field. In sum, computer simulation is a relatively new research tool and like question naire, psychometric examinations, etc., it has certain limitations, but also great potential for the advancement of knowledge in social science.
Spatially resolved characterization of solution processed perovskite solar cells using the LBIC technique

Perovskite organometal halide based solar cells have recently attracted substantial attention due to high power conversion efficiency and ease of processing. Their photovoltaic performance is significantly affected by perovskite film morphology and uniformity regardless of the deposition method. To compare the performance of perovskite solar cells prepared by different solution-based deposition methods and treatments, we used laser beam induced current (LBIC) to spatially resolve the current collection in different devices. Our results show that devices fabricated by the sequential deposition method yield a higher and more uniform LBIC distribution than those prepared by a single-step deposition. The non-uniformity in the LBIC is attributed to microscopic defects and impurity phases in the perovskite films. LBIC imaging provides useful information that will help optimize the growth conditions for better devices.
A multi-objective optimization approach for efficient energy management in smart grids

Smart grid uses bi directional flow of information to create a distributed and efficient energy delivery network. Some of the important objectives of a smart grid include improving energy efficiency, maximizing utility, reducing cost, and controlling emission. Smart grids use demand response as an effective strategy to address this challenge. Demand response uses real time scheduling to enable customers to modify their demand according to energy consumption costs. In this paper, we consider the problem of efficient scheduling of energy consumption of users in a smart grid. Efficient energy management involves tradeoffs between the cost associated with energy consumption and a utility function. The utility function can represent the living comfort of users or gross income of the utility company. The utility function is non decreasing with respect to total utilized power. Hence, it is important to understand the tradeoffs between energy consumption and utility. The main contribution of this work is the development of a multi-objective optimization framework for efficient energy scheduling in smart grids. A recently developed multi-objective evolutionary algorithm called the evolutionary multi-objective crowding algorithm (EMOCA) is adapted for simultaneously optimizing the energy cost and utility function subject to a constraint on the power generation capacity. Simulation results show that EMOCA demonstrates the advantages of multi-objective optimization and outperforms a widely used and well known multi-objective evolutionary algorithm.
Spatial variation of plasma flow in the oxazolone-stimulated microcirculation.

Introduction: In cutaneous lymphocytic inflammation, enhanced regional blood flow is suggested by persistent erythema and warmth. Direct assessment of the microcirculation, however, has been limited by tissue edema and skin thickness.¶Methods: To assess the microcirculatory adaptations to the epicutaneous antigen oxazolone, we studied the first pass kinetics and microvascular topography of the inflammatory skin microcirculation using a specially adapted epi-illumination intravital microscopy system. The fluorescence intravital videomicroscopy and streaming image acquisition of fluorescein-labeled dextran (∼500,000 MW) injections were used to assess changes in plasma flow.¶Results: Direct plasma tracer injections of both the oxazolone-stimulated and control microcirculation demonstrated comparable transit times (leading edge and intensity-weighted peak times) from the carotid artery to the superficial vascular plexus (p>0.05). In contrast to transit times, continuous infusion of the plasma tracer demonstrated a significant increase in the delivery of the fluorescein-labeled dextran to the oxazolone-stimulated microcirculation. Quantitative morphometry of intravital microscopic images demonstrated a 2.2-fold increase in the mean diameter of vessels in the superficial vascular plexus (p<0.01). Further, fluorescence intensity mapping indicated that the increase was associated with increased perfusion of focal regions of the superficial vascular plexus (p<0.001).¶Conclusions: These results indicate that the oxazolone-stimulated adaptations of the inflammatory microcirculation include both microvascular dilatation and the redistribution of plasma flow.
‘Sympathy for the Devil?’ The West German Left and the Challenge of Terrorism

In the 1970s, the West German extra-parliamentary Left struggled to respond effectively to left-wing terrorism and the state powers mobilised against it. This article argues that a shared conception of counter-violence as legitimate resistance helps explain the Left's ambivalent relationship to political violence and its solidarity with militants. The mounting strain on the projects and protest networks of student rebels, older leftists, anti-nuclear demonstrators and feminist activists, however, provoked debate and, eventually, change. Caught between terrorism and counter-terrorism, leftists revised assumptions upon which their commitment to resistance had rested – and reconceived resistance itself as part of everyday, mainstream politics.
A Survey of Soybean Meal Used in Poultry Feeds 1976 to 1982

Abstract Soybean meal samples were collected for analysis from 1976 through 1982 and analyzed for moisture, fat, protein, fiber, and urease. Moisture increased in almost linear fashion during this period. Values for fat recorded in 1981 and 1982 were significantly lower than those recorded earlier. Fiber values increased significantly in 1979, 1980, and 1981 and then decreased significantly in 1982. The urease data suggest that inadequately heat-treated soybean meal was more common in 1982 than in 1981.
Long-term Glucose Monitoring With Glycated Proteins

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health problem associated with serious long-term complications. Glycohemoglobin, a reliable index of the average blood glucose level during the previous 2 to 3 months, is now used routinely to monitor glycemic control in diabetic individuals. The assays most commonly used to measure glycohemoglobin levels include ion-exchange chromatography, electrophoresis, and affinity chromatography. Not all methods measure the same glycohemoglobin component, however; assay results depend on the component measured and the assay used. The need for standardization of glycohemoglobin values between laboratories has been recognized, but not yet implemented. Glycated serum protein and glycoalbumin measurements, which provide an index of glycemia over a 2- to 4-week period, have been investigated as alternatives for monitoring glycemic control. Methods to determine levels of these components in patients include nitroblue tetrazolium reduction and affinity chromatography. However, the value of these methods for monitoring glycemic control over a shorter period is still in question. Glycated protein measurements have been studied for their use in diabetes screening. Further studies are needed, however, to determine whether these measurements are sensitive enough to identify most individuals at risk for diabetic complications.
Study on the Affecting Factors of Growth of Oreorchis patens Mycorrhizae in vitro

By means of separating,purifying,cultivating mycorrhizae of Oreorchis patens,setting temperature,light condition,carbon sources,nitrogen source,acidity and alkalinity and so on for single-factor test,the growth conditions and culture traits of mycorrhizae of Oreorchis patens were studied in different culture conditions.The results showed that Oreorchis patens mycorrhizae could grow within 5~30℃,and 20℃ was its optimum temperature;In all kinds of light conditions could grow,the optimum condition was 12 hours of light and 12 hours of night;the optimum pH was pH 5.0 to 7.0;its optimal carbon sources was glucose;the optimal was glycine.
The Clinical Application of Recombinant Erythropoietin in the HIV-Infected Patient

Patients with HIV infection frequently develop clinically significant anemia, either as a manifestation of the HIV or as a result of therapy with medications such as zidovudine. Therapy with recombinant human erythropoietin can increase hemoglobin levels in these patients, decreasing transfusion requirements and improving some aspects of the quality of life. Once erythropoietin therapy is started, it is important to monitor patients carefully for the development of iron deficiency and erythrocytosis.
Phenomenology, Logic, and the Philosophy of Mathematics: Proofs and Fulfillable Mathematical Intentions

What is a proof? One answer, common especially to some logicians, is that a proof is a finite configuration of signs in an inductively defined class of sign-configurations of an elementary formal system. This is the formalist's conception of proof, the conception on which one can encode proofs in the natural numbers. Then for any elementary formal system in which one can do the amount of arithmetic needed to arithmetize proof, and metamathematics generally, one can prove Godel's incompleteness theorems. Godel's theorems are often described as showing that proof in mathematics, in the formalist's sense, is not the same as truth, or that syntax is not the same as semantics. On this view “proof” is always relative to a given formal system. One might ask whether there is some common feature that these different purely formal ‘proofs’ share, a feature by virtue of which we are prepared to call them ‘proofs’. The formalist's conception of proof is quite alien to many working mathematicians. The working mathematician's conception of proof is not nearly so precise and well delineated. In fact, just what a proof is on the latter conception is not so clear, except that it is not or is not only, what a strict formalist says it is. In mathematical practice proofs may involve many informal components, a kind of rigor that is independent of complete formalization, and some kind of “meaning” or semantic content.
Evaluating the Effect of Comorbidities on the Success, Risk, and Cost of Digital Replantation.

Purpose The clinical decision to replant an amputated digit is driven primarily by surgical indication. However, the extent to which patient comorbidity should play into this decision is less well defined. This study was designed to determine the effect of patient comorbidities on the success, risk, and cost of digital replantation. Methods All amputation injuries and digital replantation procedures captured by the National Inpatient Sample during 2001 to 2012 were identified. A successful replantation procedure was defined as one in which a replantation occurred without a subsequent revision amputation. Patient comorbidities were tested for association with failure of replantation, risk of postoperative complications, and overall hospital costs. Results We identified 11,788 digital replantation procedures. A total of 3,604 patients (30.6%) experienced revascularization failure associated with replantation. The risk for replant failure was highest among patients with psychotic disorders, peripheral vascular disease, and electrolyte imbalances. The risk for postoperative complications was highest among patients with electrolyte imbalances, drug abuse, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Hospital costs were greatest among patients with deficiency anemias, electrolyte imbalances, or psychotic disorders. Patients with more than 3 comorbidities experienced significantly higher failure, risk of postoperative complications, and cost of digital replantation. Conclusions These data suggest that even when surgical indications are met, patients with more than 3 comorbidities and those who have a history of alcohol abuse, deficiency anemias, electrolyte imbalances, obesity, peripheral vascular disease, or psychotic disorders are at increased risk of replantation failure and associated postoperative complications. Assessment of this risk should have a role in decision making regarding whether a digit should be replanted. Patients at high risk should be carefully counseled regarding the difficult perioperative course before undergoing digital replantation. Type of study/level of evidence Prognostic III.
African philosophy: The center of African-centered social work

Social work is an applied science of the best approaches and practices to populations that have been systemically dispossessed of themselves, their humanity, and the philosophical constructs that reflect their psychological and cultural processes. There is a fundamental need for social workers to learn the importance of philosophy in theory and practice, so that interventions are based out of relevant frameworks in a people’s long history. African personhood is a viable philosophical framework with applicable tenants in best practices with the African diasporic community, in areas of employment, education, marriage-family development, spiritual reconciliation, and other aspects of life and living, that, without a philosophical application, renders people without important concepts of being, which is tantamount to living as moral, ethical, and spiritual agents. This article explores the importance of social work, advancing its philosophy discourse, while introducing African personhood as a construc...
Ctrl-C: Instruction-Aware Control Loop Based Adaptive Cache Bypassing for GPUs

The performance of general-purpose graphics processing units (GPGPUs) is often limited by the efficiency of the memory subsystems, particularly the L1 data caches. Because of the massive multithreading computation paradigm, significant memory resource contention and cache thrashing are often observed in GPGPU workloads. This leads to high cache miss rates and substantial pipeline stall time. In order to improve the efficiency of GPU caches, we propose an instruction-aware control loop based adaptive cache bypassing design (Ctrl-C). Ctrl-C applies an instruction-aware algorithm to dynamically identify per-memory instruction cache reuse behavior. Ctrl-C then adopts feedback control loops to bypass memory requests probabilistically in order to protect cache lines with short reuse distances from early eviction. GPGPU-sim simulation based evaluation shows that Ctrl-C improves the performance of cache sensitive GPGPU workloads by 41.5%, leading to higher cache and interconnect bandwidth utilization with only an insignificant 3.5% area overhead.
Capturing tumor heterogeneity and clonal evolution in solid cancers using circulating tumor DNA analysis

Circulating tumor DNA analysis has emerged as a potential noninvasive alternative to tissue biopsies for tumor genotyping in patients with metastatic cancer. This is particularly attractive in cases where tissue biopsies are contraindicated or repeat genotyping after progression on treatment is required. However, tissue and plasma analysis results are not always concordant and clinical interpretation of discordant results is not completely understood. Discordant results could arise due to analytical limits of assays used for tumor and plasma DNA analysis or due to low overall contribution of tumor-specific DNA in plasma. Once these factors are ruled out, tissue-plasma concordance and quantitative levels of somatic mutations in plasma can capture tumor heterogeneity. During longitudinal follow-up of patients, this feature can be leveraged to track subclonal evolution and to guide combination or sequential adaptive treatment. Here, we summarize recent results evaluating the opportunities and limitations of circulating tumor DNA analysis in the context of tumor heterogeneity and subclonal evolution in patients with advanced cancers.