cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Temporal levels: sociobiological aspects of a fundamental synthesis

Abstract The principles of a hierarchical theory of time are sketched and applied to problems in the study of biological and social structures. It has often been noted that the major integrative levels of nature, distinct in their degrees of complexity, are also distinct in the types of causation and lawfulness in terms of which they may be most efficiently discussed. It is proposed that time itself is so structured. Rather than a single one-way thrust in which the furnishings of the world equally partake, it is better understood as a hierarchy of temporalities appropriate to the different integrative levels. Methodologically, if we wish to identify the evolutionary policies that control the emergence of new stable structures and functions, we should regard the major steps in prebiotic and organic evolution as developmental stages of time itself, rather than steps within the framework of a pre-existing absolute time which ‘flows equably without relation to anything else’. This is an anti-intuitive stance whose value can be judged only in terms of its internal consistency and explanatory power. The theory is, therefore, tested. Biogenesis is interpreted as the coming about of autonomous clock aggregates which, in the course of evolution, complexify into the cyclic order of life, by filling the available niches in the spectrum of environmental periodicities. The aging order of life is seen as a boundary condition to the spectral spread of the cyclic order. Man emerges from this matrix through his ability for symbolic transformation of experience, which makes possible intraspecific selection for planning, memory and language. As a social enterprise language is carried along, as it were, by its inertia and dictates the forms of temporal structures within which social issues are expected to be formulated and social functions understood. The concluding remarks pertain to the epistemic status and critical testability of the theory.
Large-Displacement Indentation Testing of Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Arrays

Mechanical properties and deformation of the vertically aligned carbon nanotube arrays (VA-CNTs) has been examined with large-displacement indentation tests inside a scanning electronic microscope (SEM). The in-situ indentation allows for establishment of the load-depth responses and real-time observations of the deformation processes. Under a cylindrical, flat indenter, the VA-CNTs exhibit elastic deformation at small displacement and then plastic deformation at large displacement. The critical indentation pressure (Pm), a measure of collapsing stress of the CNT arrays, is obtained. The magnitude of Pm is approximately equal to the collapsing stress of the carbon nanotube arrays obtained under uniaxial compression.
Carbon Monoxide Diffusing Capacity in Newborn Infants

Extract: In order to test the role of diffusing capacity in determining the arterial oxygen tension of newborn infants, pulmonary diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco) was measured in 21 healthy infants ranging in birth weight from 765 to 4,720 g. DLco in infants without respiratory distress correlated well with lung volume (r = 0.76, P < 0.001). A smaller correlation (r = 0.39, P < 0.01) was obtained between DLco and arterial oxygen tension. DLco per unit volume of lung is similar when healthy premature infants, full term infants, and normal adults are compared.The wide range of normal values obtained in resting infants and the lack of correlation with arterial oxygen tensions are similar to observations made in adults. Speculation: Diffusion “block” was not demonstrable in this study, even in infants with mild hypoxemia. These data, in conjunction with other studies reviewed in this report, suggest that lung volume plays a critical role in the level of arterial oxygen tension in newborn infants.
Interstitial Implant Brachytherapy in Small Animals

This article presents highlights of the physics, implantation technique, and clinical application of iridium-192 interstitial implant brachytherapy. Some of the physical differences between iridium-192 brachytherapy and cobalt-60 teletherapy are compared.
Simulation of the energy budget of an urban canyon. II: Comparison of model results with measurements

Abstract A simple numerical model that attempts to simulate the energy budget of an urban canyon is assessed by comparing its predictions against measurements made at an urban field site. A street is chosen that satisfieds many of the model's requirements and a measurement scheme is devised to measure variables which are also simulated. The model is run using input information collected from the field and the data produced are compared with the measured data. The results indicate that the model is capable of simulating many of the climate attributes (such as surface temperatures and net radiation at the canyon top) accurately, but does not simulate the dominant mechanism of sensible heat exchange between the canyon and its environment. Nevertheless, the model predicts a small and largely invariant exchange, similar to that measured. The results of the field study, when compared with other published work, indicates that as street canyons become narrower they become increasingly isolated in terms of heat exchange from the overlying atmosphere. The results of the computer runs appear to follow this pattern.
Effect of preparation method on structural characteristics and propane steam reforming performance of Ni–Al2O3 catalysts

Abstract Propane steam reforming was studied over Ni–Al 2 O 3 catalysts that were prepared by a conventional impregnation (IM) method and a one-step sol–gel (SG) technique. Both Ni–Al 2 O 3 catalysts showed similar initial activity. However, IM-Ni–Al 2 O 3 deactivated severely with time-on-stream of propane steam reforming. The catalyst prepared using a SG technique demonstrated stable catalytic performance. The two catalysts also showed major differences in product distribution, with SG catalyst giving much higher yields of hydrogen. Catalysts were characterized with temperature-programmed reduction (TPR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), temperature-programmed oxidation (TPO), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. It was revealed that, with sol–gel preparation, highly dispersed small Ni crystallites are formed with a strong interaction with the support. This is shown to be important for coke suppression and catalyst stability.
Tonal frequency shifts and gaps in acoustic stimulation as reflex-modifying events

When a relatively weak signal, such as a mild tone, precedes an intense reflex-eliciting stimulus by an appropriate interval (about 100 msec), the amplitude of the elicited reaction is often reduced. It was found that in student volunteers a brief gap in a steady pure tone that occurred 150 msec prior to a mild tap to the glabella (the flat region between the eyebrows) could inhibit the eyeblink elicited by the tap. It was also found that a shift in tonal frequency across a gap in a tone was more inhibitory than a gap with no frequency shift, but it was no more inhibitory than the onset of the short second tone alone. The final study determined the minimum amount of frequency shift required to produce an additional inhibitory effect above that of a gap alone. The findings are discussed in terms of various aspects of sensory processing.
General chiral gauge theories on the lattice

Abstract We still extend the large class of Dirac operators decribing massless fermions on the lattice found recently, only requiring that such operators decompose into Weyl operators. After deriving general relations and constructions of operators, we study the basis representations of the chiral projections. We then investigate correlation functions of Weyl fermions for any value of the index, stressing the related conditions for basis transformations and their consequences, and getting the precise behaviors under gauge transformations and CP transformations. Various further developments include considerations of the explicit form of the effective action and of a representation of the general correlation functions in terms of alternating multilinear forms. For comparison we also consider gauge-field variations and their respective applications. Finally we compare with continuum perturbation theory.
Initial conditions and ENSO prediction using a coupled ocean-atmosphere model

A coupled ocean-atmosphere initialization scheme using Newtonian relaxation has beendeveloped for the Florida State University coupled ocean-atmosphere global general circulationmodel. The initialization scheme is used to initialize the coupled model for seasonal forecastingthe boreal summers of 1987 and 1988. The atmosphere model is a modified version of theFlorida State University global spectral model, resolution T-42. The ocean general circulationmodel consists of a slightly modified version of the Hamburg’s climate group model describedin Latif (1987) and Latif et al. (1993). The coupling is synchronous with information exchangedevery two model hours. Using ECMWF atmospheric daily analysis and observed monthlymean SSTs, two, 1-year, time-dependent, Newtonian relaxation were performed using thecoupled model prior to conducting the seasonal forecasts. The coupled initializations wereconducted from 1 June 1986 to 1 June 1987 and from 1 June 1987 to 1 June 1988. Newtonianrelaxation was applied to the prognostic atmospheric vorticity, divergence, temperature anddew point depression equations. In the ocean model the relaxation was applied to the surfacetemperature. Two, 10-member ensemble integrations were conducted to examine the impact ofthe coupled initialization on the seasonal forecasts. The initial conditions used for the ensemblesare the ocean’s final state after the initialization and the atmospheric initial conditions areECMWF analysis. Examination of the SST root mean square error and anomaly correlationsbetween observed and forecasted SSTs in the Nin˜o-3 and Nin˜o-4 regions for the 2 seasonalforecasts, show closer agreement between the initialized forecast than two, 10-member noninitializedensemble forecasts. The main conclusion here is that a single forecast with the coupledinitialization outperforms, in SST anomaly prediction, against each of the control forecasts(members of the ensemble) which do not include such an initialization, indicating possibleimportance for the inclusion of the atmosphere during the coupled initialization. DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0870.1998.00006.x
On establishing nonlinear combinations of variables from small to big data for use in later processing

Abstract This paper presents a very efficient method for establishing nonlinear combinations of variables from small to big data for use in later processing (e.g., regression, classification, etc.). Variables are first partitioned into subsets each of which has a linguistic term (called a causal condition ) associated with it. Our Causal Combination Method uses fuzzy sets to model the terms and focuses on interconnections ( causal combinations ) of either a causal condition or its complement, where the connecting word is AND which is modeled using the minimum operation. Our Fast Causal Combination Method is based on a novel theoretical result, leads to an exponential speedup in computation and lends itself to parallel and distributed processing; hence, it may be used on data from small to big.
Specializations in plasma membranes of the human placenta.

Two distinct plasma membranes have been partially parified and characterized from normal human placenta. Cell membrane spcializations which are likely to interact with maternal blood and humoral agents in the intervillous space were identified on the brush border membrane of the syncytiotrophoblast, which is recognized as the major site of synthetic and transport activity in the human placenta. Another placental plasma membrane fraction, which presumably contains syncytial components and is distinct from brush border membrane, has also been partially characterized. This membrane is likely to be a major site of interaction of fetal blood and humoral agents with the placenta. Both brush border and nonbrush border membranes possess different transport and receptor activities. Brush border membranes are rich in insulin receptors and in alkaline phosphatase and contain Na-gradient-dependent amino acid transport sites (but do not contain demonstrable hormone sensitive adenylate cyclase activity). Nonbrush border placental membranes are (on the other hand) enriched in hormone sensitive adenylate cyclase activity, β-Adrenergic receptors Na + −K + -ATPase, [ 3 H]ouabain binding, and an ATP-dependent Ca 2+ transport system. Interposed between two separate circulatory systems the placenta has a distinct polarity of its membrane specializations thus allowing different interactions at the maternal-placental as compared to the fetal-placental interface. These interactions are likely to mediate placental metabolic. synthetic, and transport functions.
RAISING THE COST OF REBELLION: THE ROLE OF THIRD‐PARTY INTERVENTION IN INTRASTATE CONFLICT

This paper presents a simple model to characterize explicitly the role that an intervening third party plays in raising the cost of rebellion in an intrastate conflict. Extending the Gershenson‐Grossman (2000) framework of conflict in a two‐stage game to the case involving outside intervention in a three‐stage game as in Chang et al. (2007b), we examine the conditions under which an outside party optimally intervenes such that (i) the strength of the rebel group is diminished or (ii) the rebellion is deterred altogether. We also find conditions in which a third party optimally intervenes but at a level insufficient to deter rebellion. Such behavior, which improves the incumbent government’s potential to succeed in conflict, is overlooked in some conflict studies evaluating the effectiveness of intervention. One policy implication of the model is that an increase in the strength of inter‐governmental trade partnerships increases the likelihood that third‐party intervention deters rebellion.
Origin of the oxygen in the oxidation of triphenylphosphine by potassium persulfate—application of the 18O isotope effect in 31P NMR

Potassium persulfate oxidizes triphenylphosphine to triphenylphosphine oxide in 60% aqueous acetonitrile. It has been suggested that the oxygen of the product, triphenylphosphine oxide, might originate from solvent water, following nucleophilic attack on an intermediate phosphonium ion. We have investigated the origin of the oxygen in the oxidation of triphenylphosphine by potassium persulfate in 60% aqueous acetonitrile containing 20% [18O]water. The product was analyzed by using the 18O isotope effect in 31P NMR spectroscopy. The magnitude of the 18O isotope-induced shift was determined by synthesizing triphenylphosphine [18O]oxide and was found to be 0.038 ppm upfield. The product of the oxidation reaction in 20% [18O]water displayed no 18O isotope effect. The origin of the oxygen in the oxidation reaction is the persulfate ion, consistent with an alternative mechanism involving nucleophilic attack by water at the sulfur atom of a phosphonium peroxysulfate intermediate.
Ferredoxin-dependent glutamate synthase moonlights in plant sulfolipid biosynthesis by forming a complex with SQD1

UDP-sulfoquinovose synthase, SQD1, catalyzes the transfer of sulfite to UDP-glucose giving rise to UDP-sulfoquinovose, which is the head group donor for the biosynthesis of the plant sulfolipid sulfoquinovosyldiacylglyerol. The native SQD1 enzyme of spinach exists as a 250 kDa heteroprotein complex with much higher affinity for the substrate sulfite than the recombinant SQD1 protein itself. The SQD1 protein co-purified with nine proteins. Likely binding partners included rubisco activase, HSP70, and ferredoxin-dependent glutamate synthase (FdGOGAT). While the first two proteins are known to interact with many other proteins, the identification of FdGOGAT was most intriguing because this 160 kDa protein contains an FMN cofactor known to bind sulfite in vitro. Using different constructs expressing recombinant forms of the multidomain protein FdGOGAT, it was demonstrated that the FMN-binding domain of FdGOGAT is essential for specific binding of the protein to SQD1. A model suggests that FdGOGAT could channel sulfite to SQD1.
The effect of the r a and r b loci on the lipid content of the seed of Pisum sativum

The lipid content of seed from a set of isogenic lines for the Ra: ra locus has been determined; the results show that this locus as well as affecting the starch, sugar and storage protein content and composition, also has a marked effect on the lipid content of the seed. Genotypes having different combinations of alleles at the ra and rb loci have also been examined; an rararbrb, genotype had 5.57% purified total lipid in its seed — a more than 2-fold increase over that found in the round-seeded varieties (RaRaRbRb) usually grown for the dry sed crop.
Grooved Ball Pad Structure (GBPS) to Improve FBGA Solder Joint Reliability (SJR) Performance

In this paper, a novel concept using the circular grooved ball pad structure (GBPS) for FBGA is proposed. The goal of the new design is to significantly improve FBGA solder joint reliability (SJR), with minimal impact in cost and packaging assembly processes. Finite element analysis (FEA) tools are used to understand the package solder joint failure mechanism. Simulation shows the GBPS can improve FBGA package SJR significantly. The leadframe based ball grid array package (LFBGA) is chosen as the vehicle to demonstrate the concept of grooved ball pad structure. The reliability results show that GBPS can improve LFBGA package SJR cycles by 2X. Grooved ball pad technology is further attempted on wafer level chip scale packages (WLCSP).
Induced Aggregation of Pond‐Reared Rainbow Trout (Salmo gairdneri) Through Acoustic Conditioning

Abstract About 90% of the rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) roaming freely in a large pond were conditioned to come to feed at the source of an underwater acoustic stimulus in about 45 trials. The stimulus was a 150-Hz, pure tone broadcasted continuously for one minute before and throughout feeding. The fish showed no tendency to discriminate between the conditioning tone and a 300-Hz tone produced in tests from the same sound source.
Embolization therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia: influence of embolization particle size on gland perfusion.

Purpose To assess the influence of embolic size on the therapy response of prostatic arterial embolization (PAE) based on perfusional changes seen on dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods Twelve beagles underwent PAE, four dogs with each particle size: A: 100–300 μm; B: 300–500 μm; and C: 500–700 μm. Prior to and 1 month after the embolization all dogs underwent prostate DCE MRI. Results After embolization, time to maximal perfusion intensity for prostate parenchyma increased in B (188 vs. 135 sec, P = 0.023) and C (200 vs. 120 sec, P = 0.001), while it did not change for A (139 vs. 124 sec, P = 0.39). The maximal relative intensity increased after embolization in C (3.84 vs. 2.38, P < 0.001), while it did not change for A (2.50 vs. 2.44, P = 0.36) and B (3.23 vs. 2.9, P = 0.21). The extent of visualized intraprostatic urethral wall increased after embolization in B compared with A and C, 239.5 ± 138.1% vs. 56.1 ± 34.3, P = 0.04. Enhancement changes correlated with prostate volume changes: prostate volumes in A decreased less as compared with B and C (77 ± 34% vs. 56 ± 14%), P = 0.02. Conclusion The enhancement and morphological data are useful to monitor response to therapy after embolization. Embolization with 300–500 and 500–700 μm particle may provide better results than with 100–300 μm particles in a canine model. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:380–387. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Critical Role for IgM in Host Protection in Experimental Filarial Infection

We have previously shown that B cells (in particular B1 cells) are important in host protection against brugian infections in a murine i.p. model. In this study, we show that mice deficient in circulating IgM (secIgM−/−), but otherwise normal in their humoral responses, manifest a significant impairment in worm elimination, suggesting that one critical B cell function is the production of Ag-specific IgM. Efficient elimination of larvae is IgM dependent for both primary and challenge infections. The ability to eliminate worms is restored in secIgM−/− mice by administering sera from primed mice. We corroborated these in vivo studies with in vitro observations which show that IgM is the only isotype that reacts strongly with the surface of Brugia L3. Furthermore, activated peritoneal exudate cells adhere to L3 only in the presence of filaria-specific sera or IgM purified from them. This attachment is not reduced by heat inactivation of the serum, suggesting complement independent activity. Peritoneal exudate cells from primed mice, especially activated macrophages, carry high levels of IgM on their surfaces. Our observations suggest that an IgM-mediated reaction initiates the formation of host-protective granulomas.
Social Cultivation of Vaccine Refusal and Delay among Waldorf (Steiner) School Parents

U.S. media reports suggest that vastly disproportionate numbers of un- and under-vaccinated children attend Waldorf (private alternative) schools. After confirming this statistically, I analyzed qualitative and quantitative vaccination-related data provided by parents from a well-established U.S. Waldorf school. In Europe, Waldorf-related non-vaccination is associated with anthroposophy (a worldview foundational to Waldorf education)—but that was not the case here. Nor was simple ignorance to blame: Parents were highly educated and dedicated to self-education regarding child health. They saw vaccination as variously unnecessary, toxic, developmentally inappropriate, and profit driven. Some vaccine caution likely predated matriculation, but notable post-enrollment refusal increases provided evidence of the socially cultivated nature of vaccine refusal in the Waldorf school setting. Vaccine caution was nourished and intensified by an institutionalized emphasis on alternative information and by school community norms lauding vaccine refusal and masking uptake. Implications for intervention are explored.
Time-dependent models for dark matter at the galactic center

The prospects for indirect detection of dark matter at the galactic center with $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray experiments like the space telescope GLAST, and air Cherenkov telescopes like HESS, CANGAROO, MAGIC and VERITAS depend sensitively on the mass profile within the inner parsec. We calculate the distribution of dark matter on subparsec scales by integrating the time-dependent Fokker-Planck equation, including the effects of self-annihilations, scattering of dark matter particles by stars, and capture in the supermassive black hole. We consider a variety of initial dark matter distributions, including models with very high densities (``spikes'') near the black hole, and models with ``adiabatic compression'' of the baryons. The annihilation signal after ${10}^{10}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{yr}$ is found to be substantially reduced from its initial value, but in dark matter models with an initial spike, order-of-magnitude enhancements can persist compared with the rate in spike-free models.
Endogenous events modulating myogenic regulation of cerebrovascular function.

The existence of arterial myogenic tone was first described by Bayliss in 1902, however, its association with pressure-dependent membrane depolarization was not observed until 1984. The factors that mediate myogenic arterial constriction remain unknown. One possible clue was a finding by our laboratory that cerebral arterial muscle cells express CYP 4A ω-hydroxylase enzyme that catalyzes the formation of the potent vasoconstrictor 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) from arachidonic acid (AA), the production of which increased by elevations of intravascular pressure. 20-HETE activates protein kinase C (PKC), inhibits Ca 2+ -activated K + (K Ca ) channels, depolarizes arterial muscle cell membrane, activates L-type Ca 2+ channels, increases intracellular Ca 2+ ([Ca 2+ ] i ) and mediates autoregulation of cerebral blood flow. Emerging evidence indicates that 20-HETE level increases in ischemia/reperfusion injury and stimulates production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in oxidative stress induced ischemic stroke injury, which can be prevented by inhibition of 20-HETE synthesis or action. The brain also expresses CYP epoxygenases that convert AA to the vasodilator epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), the production of which increases in ischemia and provide protection against ischemia-induced tissue damage. Basal or stimulus released ROS act to modify cerebral myogenic tone. Similar to other enzymes CYP epoxygenase and ω-hydroxylase also generate ROS that modify myogenic cerebral reactivity. Hypoxia per se or adenosine released during hypoxia induces increased production of ROS that alter cerebrovascular function. The capacity of the brain to express CYP enzymes that produce bioactive EETs and 20-HETE and generate ROS has a significant bearing in regulating the dynamics of cerebral blood flow and serve as potential therapeutic targets for the management of pathologic disorders of the cerebral circulation.
Pairing morphology with gene expression in thyroid hormone-induced intestinal remodeling and identification of a core set of TH-induced genes across tadpole tissues

Thyroid hormone (T3) plays a central role in vertebrate post-embryonic development, and amphibian metamorphosis provides a unique opportunity to examine T3-dependent developmental changes. To establish a molecular framework for understanding T3-induced morphological change, we identified a set of gene expression profiles controlled by T3 in the intestine via microarray analysis. Samples were obtained from premetamorphic Xenopus laevis tadpole intestines after 0, 1, 3, and 6 days of T3 treatment, which induces successive cell death and proliferation essential for intestinal remodeling. Using a set of 21,807 60-mer oligonucleotide probes representing >98% of the Unigene clusters, we found that 1997 genes were differentially regulated by 1.5-fold or more during this remodeling process and were clustered into four temporal expression profiles; transiently up- or downregulated and late up- or downregulated. Gene Ontology categories most significantly associated with these clusters were proteolysis, cell cycle, development and transcription, and electron transport and metabolism, respectively. These categories are common with those found for T3-regulated genes from brain, limb, and tail, although more than 70% of T3-regulated genes are tissue-specific, likely due to the fact that not all genes are annotated into GO categories and that GO categories common to different organs also contain genes regulated by T3 tissue specifically. Finally, a core set of upregulated genes, most previously unknown to be T3-regulated, were identified and enriched in genes involved in transcription and cell signaling.
Strategic Anticipation and the Hierarchy of Justice in the U.S. District Courts

Does the hierarchical relationship between the District Courts and the Courts of Appeals influence decision-making at the trial level? Do these judges anticipate responses by appellate panels and condition their decisions based on these expectations? Using a sample of District Court cases from 1925-1996 that were subsequently reviewed by the Courts of Appeals, and incorporating a strategic choice statistical framework, I discover that the District Courts are constrained by the anticipated responses of the Appeals Courts. However, this conclusion is not apparent if one analyzes the data using traditional maximum likelihood methods. Only when empirical analyses specifically model underlying strategic relationships does one discover this constraint. If the federal trial judges anticipate a negative response on appeal, then they curtail their ideological influences (the magnitude of influence decreases by approximately one-half). This pattern remains consistent when one examines civil liberties and economic cases, but not for criminal cases. Thus, the hierarchical structure of the federal judiciary appears to exert a significant constraint on the District Courts.
A general analysis technique for performance of diversity receivers corrupted by partial-band noise interference

Error probability analyses for complicated communications systems often yield mathematics which defy analytical solution. In these situations, it is desirable - for added insight and reduced computational burden - to carry the solution analytically as far as practical before resorting to numerical analysis. Analyses of communications systems with diversity and partial-band noise interference often yield such complicated mathematics, as does the analysis of communications systems with convolutional coding and soft decision decoding. In these systems, some components of the decision statistics are affected by partial-band interference, while others are not. Therefore, each decision statistic is a function of many random variables involving at least two distinct probability density functions. The authors describe a general way to calculate the probability density function for a random variable that is the sum of random variables, employing a new technique to evaluate the inverse Laplace transform as an integral of a real integrand over a finite range. This integral is often better suited for numerical evaluation than the usual inverse Laplace transform integral, thereby offering a generally applicable simplification to decision statistical analysis for complicated communications systems. The new technique is applied to BPSK with AWGN and to a fast frequency-hopped M-ary FSK signal corrupted by partial-band interference.
A Simple Mechanism for ENSO Residuals and Asymmetry

Abstract A simple mechanism is offered that accounts for a change in the long-term (decadal scale) mean of ocean temperatures as the El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) amplitude changes. It is intended as an illustration of a kinematic effect of oscillating a nonlinear temperature profile with finite-amplitude excursions that will cause the Eulerian time mean temperature to rise (fall) where the curvature of the temperature is positive (negative) as the amplitude of the oscillations increases. This mechanism is found to be able to mimic observed changes in the mean sea surface temperatures in the Pacific between the 1920s, 1960s, and 1990s due to the changing ENSO amplitude. The effects alter both the calculated mean surface temperatures and the time mean temperatures at depth. It also results in a skewness of the temperature distribution that shares many properties with the observed SST. In this model, the time-local gradients of temperature never change if referenced to a single isotherm (i.e., the Lag...
Chromatography of triazines

Abstract The major areas of diverse paper, thin-layer, gas and column chromatographic analyses have been reviewed with special emphasis on procedures used for the elaboration of compound homogeneity, metabolism, degradation and mode of action of a variety of 1,3,5-triazines that are of pesticidal, pharmaceutical, chemosterilant and industrial significance.
Macrophage‐like cells from explant cultures of rat sciatic nerve produce apolipoprotein E

Apolipoprotein E is synthesized and secreted by degenerating peripheral nerve, but the role of resident endoneurial cells in this process is not clear. To exclude the involvement of nonresident cells, we examined the cellular source of endoneurial apolipoprotein E in explant cultures of rat sciatic nerve. The cellular outgrowth from these explant cultures released apolipoprotein E into the culture medium. The cellular outgrowth contained fibroblasts, Schwann cells, and a population of cells with many phenotypic characteristics of macrophages, including the production of apolipoprotein E. No other cell type in the cultures appeared to contribute to this production. These data suggest that apolipoprotein E is produced by resident endoneurial cells in explant cultures and that these cells are macrophages.
Teaching engineering disciplines to tool developers

An approach to teaching engineering of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools that combines detailed tool algorithm knowledge with an engineering process for such tools is proposed. A methodology for the inclusion of engineering disciplines in CASE development education is described. Teaching methods from first basic principles to more developed processes are suggested. Specific recommendations are made for curriculum development. >
Molecular and phenotypic heterogeneity in mitochondrial trifunctional protein deficiency due to beta-subunit mutations.

The mitochondrial trifunctional protein (TFP) is a multienzyme complex of the fatty acid beta-oxidation cycle. It is composed of four alpha-subunits (HADHA) harboring long-chain enoyl-CoA hydratase and long-chain L-3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (LCHAD) and four beta-subunits (HADHB) harboring long-chain 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase (LKAT). Mutations in either subunit can result in TFP deficiency with reduced activity of all three TFP enzymes. We characterize 15 patients from 13 families with beta-subunit mutations by clinical, biochemical, and molecular features. Three clinical phenotypes are apparent: a severe neonatal presentation with cardiomyopathy, Reye-like symptoms, and early death (n=4); a hepatic form with recurrent hypoketotic hypoglycemia (n=2); and a milder later-onset neuromyopathic phenotype with episodic myoglobinuria (n=9). Maternal HELLP syndrome occurred in two mothers independently of the fetal phenotype. Mutational analysis revealed 16 different mutations, the majority being missense mutations (n=12). The predominance of missense mutations and the milder myopathic phenotype are consistent. Based upon homology to yeast thiolase that has been characterized structurally, the mutation localization within the protein correlates with the clinical phenotype. Outer loop mutations that are expected to alter protein stability less were only present in milder forms. The degree of reduction in thiolase antigen also correlated with the severity of clinical presentation. Although TFP deficiency is highly heterogeneous, there is genotype-phenotype correlation.
SEVERE IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN 42 PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

The objective of this study was to determine the clinical and laboratory features of children with severe iron deficiency anemia. The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of 198 children with iron deficiency anemia to ascertain cases of severe iron deficiency anemia. Forty-two children with severe iron deficient anemia were evaluated. The median age was 21 months (range, 7-240 months) at diagnosis and 27 children were 13-24 months of age. For 35 children the major source of calories was derived from cow's milk. The median hemoglobin was 4.6 g/dL (range, 2.1-6 g/dL) and the median serum ferritin was 5 microg/L (range, 1-11 microg/L). Twenty-nine received oral iron and 13 required parked red blood cell transfusions because of co-morbid cardiorespiratory distress. Severe iron deficiency anemia mostly affects children during their second year of life. Oral iron therapy is sufficient for most children, but packed red blood cell transfusions may be needed.
Growth of microorganisms in propofol and methohexital mixtures.

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the growth of 4 different microorganisms in propofol, methohexital, and 1:1 and 1:3 mixtures of propofol and methohexital. Materials and Methods: The microbial growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and Escherichia coli in 1:1 and 3:1 mixtures of methohexital and 2 types of propofol was measured for 48 hours after mixing the solutions. Two of the 4 test solutions were composed of 1% methohexital combined with Diprivan (AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Wilmington, DE), which uses EDTA as a microbial growth inhibitor. The growth of the same 4 microorganisms was also evaluated in 1:1 and 3:1 mixtures of 1% methohexital and a recently introduced generic propofol marketed by Baxter Pharmaceuticals (Deerfield, IL) that uses sodium metabisulfite as a preservative. Results: Combining either Diprivan or generic propofol with methohexital in a 1:1 or 1:3 mixture ratio resulted in a solution that, like methohexital alone, significantly resisted the growth of C albicans, E coli, S aureus, and P aeruginosa for 48 hours. Conclusion: The results of our study suggest that 1:1 and 1:3 mixtures of propofol (either Diprivan or generic propofol) and methohexital behave similarly to methohexital alone by resisting growth of the microorganisms studied over the 48-hour time period. If, as has been reported elsewhere, the mixture of these 2 agents results in a solution with desirable anesthetic properties, its ability to resist microbial growth becomes clinically significant by extending the shelf-life of propofol in these mixtures.
Formation of Self-Assembled Sidewall Nanowires on Shallow Patterned GaAs (100)

The formation of "sidewall nanowires" on shallow patterned mesa strips with a modulation depth of only 35 nm on GaAs (100) was demonstrated using molecular beam epitaxy. While self-assembled GaAs sidewall nanowire formation is observed near mesa strips running along [011], relatively thinner AlAs/GaAs layers are formed on identical mesa strips running along [01-1]. Cross-sectional atomic force microscopy (XAFM) on (011) and (01-1) and AFM on (100) are used to understand the formation of the different morphology of the nanostructures, depending on the direction of the mesas. The data indicates that anisotropic surface diffusion of adatoms, resulting from the characteristic (2times4) GaAs (100) surface reconstruction, is responsible for the sidewall nanowire formation and for the different morphology observed along different directions
Epoetin alfa as a supportive measure in hematologic malignancies

Abstract Anemia is prevalent among cancer patients with hematologic malignancies, with fatigue and weakness, major symptoms of anemia, contributing to diminished quality of life (QOL). Data from several randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials and three large community-based studies in patients with hematologic malignancies indicate that recombinant human erythropoietin (r-HuEPO, epoetin alfa) can correct anemia, reduce transfusion requirements, and improve QOL. Moreover, a positive relationship has been found between increased hemoglobin (Hb) levels and improvements in QOL assessments, regardless of disease state, with the greatest incremental improvement occurring when Hb increases from 11 g/dL to 12 g/dL (range, 11 to 13 g/dL). This suggests that patients with mild-to-moderate anemia may achieve the greatest QOL benefit from epoetin alfa therapy. Evidence from community-based studies suggests that epoetin alfa administered once weekly has a similar safety and efficacy profile as three-times-weekly administration. Further research is ongoing with less frequent dosing regimens. The beneficial effects of epoetin alfa therapy have been reported in studies involving patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma, and lymphomas. Evidence also exists that epoetin alfa can benefit patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), although these results have not been as impressive. Combining epoetin alfa with other cytokine growth factors may confer some additional benefit in these patients, but more rigorous investigation is required. Semin Hematol 39(suppl 3):25-31. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Dispersion Patterns and Sampling Plans for Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) in Citrus

The abundance and spatial dispersion of Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) were studied in 34 grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macfad.) and six sweet orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] orchards from March to August 2006 when the pest is more abundant in southern Texas. Although flush shoot infestation levels did not vary with host plant species, densities of D. citri eggs, nymphs, and adults were significantly higher on sweet orange than on grapefruit. D. citri immatures also were found in significantly higher numbers in the southeastern quadrant of trees than other parts of the canopy. The spatial distribution of D. citri nymphs and adults was analyzed using Iowa's patchiness regression and Taylor's power law. Taylor's power law fitted the data better than Iowa's model. Based on both regression models, the field dispersion patterns of D. citri nymphs and adults were aggregated among flush shoots in individual trees as indicated by the regression slopes that were significantly >1. For the average density of each life stage obtained during our surveys, the minimum number of flush shoots per tree needed to estimate D. citri densities varied from eight for eggs to four flush shoots for adults. Projections indicated that a sampling plan consisting of 10 trees and eight flush shoots per tree would provide density estimates of the three developmental stages of D. citri acceptable enough for population studies and management decisions. A presence-absence sampling plan with a fixed precision level was developed and can be used to provide a quick estimation of D. citri populations in citrus orchards.
Morganella morganii: Epidemiology of Bacteremic Disease

A retrospective review of microbiology records revealed 19 documented episodes of M. morganii bacteremia in 18 patients at a Veterans Administration hospital during a 5.5 year period. Thirteen of 19 bacteremias were related to nosocomial infections; 11 of the 13 nosocomial bacteremias occurred in surgical patients. Nine of the 13 patients with nosocomial bacteremia had received recent therapy with a beta-lactam antibiotic. The most common source of bacteremia was a postoperative wound infection (seven episodes). Only one episode was related to a urinary tract infection. Retrospective analysis showed that clusters of cases of M. morganii bacteremia had occurred almost yearly. This finding prompted a six-month period of prospective monitoring of all cultures for M. morganii to identify human reservoirs in our institution. Sixty percent of all cultures growing M. morganii came from urine cultures, 18% came from wound cultures, and the remaining 22% came from a variety of body fluids or tube drainage. Thirty-one percent of patients harboring M. morganii were on the Surgical Service. M. morganii bacteremia most commonly occurs in postoperative patients who receive beta-lactam antibiotics. From the data in this study, M. morganii is an infrequent cause of bacteremia, and its presence in blood cultures may be an indicator of an environment conducive for an outbreak of nosocomial infection.
Bixin protects mice against ventilation-induced lung injury in an NRF2-dependent manner

Mechanical ventilation (MV) is a therapeutic intervention widely used in the clinic to assist patients that have difficulty breathing due to lung edema, trauma, or general anesthesia. However, MV causes ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI), a condition characterized by increased permeability of the alveolar-capillary barrier that results in edema, hemorrhage, and neutrophil infiltration, leading to exacerbated lung inflammation and oxidative stress. This study explored the feasibility of using bixin, a canonical NRF2 inducer identified during the current study, to ameliorate lung damage in a murine VILI model. In vitro, bixin was found to activate the NRF2 signaling pathway through blockage of ubiquitylation and degradation of NRF2 in a KEAP1-C151 dependent manner; intraperitoneal (IP) injection of bixin led to pulmonary upregulation of the NRF2 response in vivo. Remarkably, IP administration of bixin restored normal lung morphology and attenuated inflammatory response and oxidative DNA damage following MV. This observed beneficial effect of bixin derived from induction of the NRF2 cytoprotective response since it was only observed in Nrf2(+/+) but not in Nrf2(-/-) mice. This is the first study providing proof-of-concept that NRF2 activators can be developed into pharmacological agents for clinical use to prevent patients from lung injury during MV treatment.
Separation Axioms: Representation Theorems, Compactness, and Compactifications

In the historical development of general topology, the searches for appropriate compactness axioms and appropriate separation axioms are closely intertwined with each other. That such intertwining is important is proven by both the Alexandrov and Stone-Cech compactifications; that such intertwining is to be expected follows from the duality between compactness and separation—the former restricts, and the latter increases, the number of open sets; and that such intertwining is categorically necessary is proven by the categorical nature of the Stone-Cech compactification and its relationship to the Stone representation theorems. Furthermore, these compactifications and many other well-known results justify the compact Hausdorff spaces of traditional mathematics.
The Statistics of Text: New Methods for Content Analysis

Computer content analysis (CCA) is used across the social sciences, and is beginning to find a range of applications in political science. These have traditionally been concentrated on political communication and policy analysis in America and Western Europe (Laver and Garry, 2000; Pennings and Keman, 2002), although CCA is potentially appropriate anywhere traditional discourse analysis might normally be considered (Neuendorf, 2002; Abdelal et al., 2003). In the dominant approach to CCA, the researcher constructs a category system or ’dictionary’ that associates a set of words with each theoretically relevant concept, and summarizes a document’s content in a vector of category occurrence frequencies. More linguistically sophisticated methods have been used for particular research problems; two important examples are the use of partial parsing and information extraction technology for events data in the KEDS project, (Schrodt, 1994; Gerner et al., 1994) and Young’s software for inferring decision maker’s cognitive maps in political psychology (Young, 1996). Methods that look for keywords, and methods that construct detailed graph structures and relational maps are two extremes of CCA. The first makes almost no assumptions about how text is actually generated, since it is based on a theory of keyword content discussed below. The latter is based on a highly developed theory of how e.g. causal relationships are expressed in text. Since there is no free lunch in data analysis, the latter methods are highly specific to particular genres of text in particular languages. KEDS is optimized for Reuters news feed, which has a fairly stereotypical structure, and Young’s software is designed for political speeches. Both require data in, or translated into English. Dictionary methods in contrast, require only a time series with a finite number of possible discrete events, an assumption that not even specific to linguistic data. There is in principle a continuum of methods between these levels of complexity, though in practice these have been the dominant two options. This paper has two parts. The first part describes some new complementary exploratory methods that are not keyword based, but also do not require strong assumptions about how concepts are expressed in text. They are a first attempt to move some of the ideas behind discourse analysis and cognitive map construction closer to textual data. The methods are not language or content specific. Consequently they cannot be as targeted as a customized application such as KEDS, but hopefully can provide useful exploratory analyses when a more complex method is not available,