cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Belief Systems and Evolution: A Distinction between Magic and Religion and its Implications for Socio‐Cultural Change*

La controverse au sujet des definitions de la magie et de la religion est dtudiee. Afin de reduire I'ambiguite, on elabore une typologie des systemes de croyance qui differencie tout aussi bien magie et religion que science et ideologic Les consequences de ce schema, pour comprendre 1'evaluation socio-culturelle, sont examinees. II y est suggere qu'au fur et a mesure que des systemesisociaux mieux adaptes se sont developpes, ils ont eu tendance a mettre l'accent sur la science et l'ideologie plutot que sur la magie et la religion. The controversy over the definitions of magic and religion is surveyed. As a solution, a typology of belief systems is constructed which not only differentiates magic and religion, but science and ideology as well. This scheme's implications for socio-cultural evolution are explored. It is suggested that, as increasingly adaptive social systems have evolved, they have tended to emphasize science and ideology rather than magic and religion.
Probing for nasolacrimal duct obstruction with intravenous propofol sedation

Abstract Background: Nasolacrimal duct obstruction occurs in 5% to 6% of neonates. Many studies advocate the probing of nasolacrimal duct obstruction under general inhalational anesthesia in patients at a late age (12 to 13 months) because a high percentage will resolve spontaneously. Others support early surgical intervention in patients aged younger than 6 to 9 months without anesthesia. We present late nasolacrimal duct probing under intravenous propofol sedation as an alternative approach to the treatment of nasolacrimal duct obstruction with a decrease in cost and time compared with probing under general inhalational anesthesia. Methods: We made a retrospective review of patient charts of children who underwent nasolacrimal duct probing with intravenous propofol sedation from April 1996 to September 1997. Procedure time and cost of procedure were compared for patients who had probings under propofol sedation to patients who had probings under general anesthesia. Results: A total of 22 patients (31 eyes) underwent nasolacrimal duct probing with propofol sedation; the patients' ages ranged from 11.5 to 39 months (average age, 17.8 months). Twenty-six (84%) of 31 eyes had resolution of the symptoms. The average total time for procedure under propofol sedation was 10.5 minutes, compared with 43.6 minutes under general inhalational anesthesia. The average total recovery time under propofol sedation was 13.6 minutes, compared with 121.1 minutes with general inhalational anesthesia. The cost of probing under propofol sedation was one third less than the cost of probing under general inhalational anesthesia. Discussion: Late probing for nasolacrimal duct obstruction under intravenous propofol sedation is comparable in efficacy to late probing under general inhalational anesthesia with a shorter time for the procedure and decreased expense. (J AAPOS 2000;4:179–82)
Platelet Activating Factor Alters Ion Transport and Barrier Function in Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Platelet Activating Factor Alters Ion Transport and Barrier Function in Intestinal Epithelial Cells
An approach to hierarchical clustering via level surfaces and convexity

We consider the following approach to hierarchical data clustering. Let A = {p1, p2, ?, Pn} be a set of n data points in Rd, d ? 2. Define f(z) = Σi=1n (¦z ? pi¦q)?1, where z is in Rd, and ¦ · ¦q denotes the Lq-norm, q ? 1. The function f can be viewed as a "combined luminosity" formed by summing individual "point luminosities" located at the pi. The level surfaces of f define a hierarchical clustering of A in a natural way. We prove a general result on convexity that enables us to obtain this clustering for q = 1 by examining the values of f on the edges of a rectilinear grid induced by A. An algorithm is developed that is practical in several situations. For n < 1000, these include: (1) d small (say d ≤ 4) and the pi real; (2) d moderate (say d ≤ 25) and the pi binary.
An Examination of Pack Journalism as a Form of Groupthink: A Theoretical and Qualitative Analysis

This study examines pack journalism as a form of groupthink. Pack journalism is a practice whereby large groups of reporters cluster around a news site, engage in copycat reporting by using and sharing news information, and lazily refrain from confirming the data through independent sources. Groupthink is a concept that describes a consensus-seeking propensity in certain groups. Through a qualitative analysis and thorough explanation of pack journalism, coupled with a theoretical and anecdotal description of groupthink, this study examines the relationships between this pack media practice and the theoretical concept of groupthink. Qualitative data were gathered from e-mail interviews with reporters from major newspaper organizations in several U.S. states. Questions asked in the interview were designed to evoke subjective journalistic opinions about what it means to engage in pack journalism, what the ethical and professional implications are from reporters' standpoints, and what connection there is betw...
What should the role of ACE inhibitors be in the treatment of diabetes? Lessons from HOPE and MICRO-HOPE.

Experimental and clinical evidence suggest that angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition may reduce cardiovascular (CV) risk by directly affecting endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis and thrombus formation. These direct effects are in addition to effects on vascular tone or pressure. The Health Outcomes and Prevention Evaluation (HOPE) study assessed the role of an ACE inhibitor ramipril in reducing CV events in 9297 patients > or = 55 years who were at high risk of CV events but did not have left ventricular dysfunction, heart failure, or high blood pressure at the time of study entry. In the overall HOPE population, the risk of the primary composite outcome (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke) was reduced by 22% (p or = 1.4 mg/dl). Ramipril treatment did not increase adverse events in patients with renal insufficiency. The Study to Evaluate Carotid Ultrasound changes in patients treated with Ramipril and Vitamin E (SECURE) demonstrated that ramipril 10 mg significantly reduced the rate of carotid intimal medial thickening, suggesting a direct effect on atherosclerotic progression.
Properties of acetylcholinesterase from rat brain.

—Acetylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.7) from cerebral cortex of mature rats was purified by means of affinity chromatography, to a specific activity of 4.5 mmol acetylthiocholine hydrolysed × min−1× mg−1 protein. The enzyme is a glycoprotein and contains a single subunit with a mol. wt of about 80,000. Electrofocusing either a pure or a crude preparation of the enzyme produces six enzymatically active bands with a range of isoelectric points from 5.04 to 5.54. Gel filtration yields oligomers with molecular weights of about 150,000, 320,000, 500,000 and 650,000, with 60 per cent of the activity in the 150,000 fraction. The gel fractions with molecular weights 150,000 and 320,000 produce the same isoelectric patterns. Different subcellular fractions of the cortex show different characteristic isoenzyme patterns.
The CMS Silicon Strip Tracker: Design and Production Status

The CMS Silicon Strip Tracker (SST) will be equipped with 15000 silicon micro-strip detector modules covering a surface of 200 m2. This paper details the SST layout and updates the status of construction. Progress in the fabrication of module components is detailed, with focus on the front-end hybrid and silicon sensor production. The assembly of over 2200 modules using industrial methods is described; the quality assurance protocols have resulted in modules of extremely high mechanical and electrical quality.
Potassium channels in airway smooth muscle: A tale of two channels

Abstract Potassium channels are an important determination of smooth muscle excitability and force generation. Two potassium channels have been fully described in airway smooth muscle: large conductance, calcium-activated potassium channels and voltage-dependent delayed rectifier channels. This article will review the biophysics and pharmacology of these channels and discuss what is currently known with respect to their regulation and physiological significance.
Determining factors leading affiliates to transfer from an individual accounts pension scheme to a pay-as-you-go pension scheme: Evidence from Argentina

Prior to the recent implementation of the Argentine Integrated Social Security System (SIPA —Sistema Integrado Previsional Argentino), the 2007 reform represented the first major change in Argentina's old-age social security system since 1994. For the first time, workers contributing to the private defined-contribution individual accounts scheme were able to choose freely to move over to the public pay-as-you-go (PAYG) scheme. This study is an attempt to analyse the special characteristics of those who opted for transfer to the public PAYG scheme and to discover whether the behaviour of these individuals is in line with that of a “simulated worker” attempting to optimize income. The analysis includes an estimate of the probability that individuals with certain characteristics will transfer.
Fracture-dislocation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint: Open reduction through a medial incisional approach

A case of traumatic fracture-dislocation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is reported. This type of injury is extremely rare. The injury was associated with complete disruption of the following anatomic structures: conjoined tendon of abductor hallucis and medial head of flexor hallucis brevis, plantar plate, and the intersesamoid ligament. Additionally, there was a transverse fracture of the tibial sesamoid. Excision of the fractured tibial sesamoid trapped within the joint and primary repair was achieved through a medial incisional approach. A complete description of the repair and rationale for the surgical procedure is discussed.
Impaired development of cerebellar cortex in rats treated postnatally with α-difluorometh ylornithine

alpha-Difluoromethylornithine specifically and irreversibly inhibits the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase. Ornithine decarboxylase catalyses the initial step in the synthesis of polyamines, which are thought to play an essential role in growth and development of mammalian tissues. The current study examined the effects of alpha-difluoromethylornithine on the ontogenic development of the rat cerebellar cortex. Animals injected daily with alpha-difluoromethylornithine on postnatal days 1-21 suffered a deficit in the number of granule cells and many of the remaining granule cells became trapped in the molecular layer during migration. Purkinje cells were also scattered throughout the molecular layer and their mean diameter was 38% smaller than in controls. In general, the cerebellar cortex of alpha-difluoromethylornithine-treated rats failed to progress much beyond the stage of development reached in control rats during the first postnatal week. These effects of alpha-difluoromethylornithine were already clearly visible at 10-15 days of age. The final size of the cerebellum as a whole and of individual folia was markedly subnormal. These data indicate that polyamines play an obligatory role in cerebellar neurogenesis and histogenesis.
Cyclic phosphonium ionic liquids

Ionic liquids (ILs) incorporating cyclic phosphonium cations are a novel category of materials. We report here on the synthesis and characterization of four new cyclic phosphonium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide ILs with aliphatic and aromatic pendant groups. In addition to the syntheses of these novel materials, we report on a comparison of their properties with their ammonium congeners. These exemplars are slightly less conductive and have slightly smaller self-diffusion coefficients than their cyclic ammonium congeners.
Conditioning the GSR and digital vasomotor response to words under a short and a long CS-UCS interval

Sixty college students served in an experiment in which the GSR and digital vasomotor response were conditioned to words. Half the students were conditioned with a.5-sec CS-UCS interval and half with a 10-sec CS-UCS interval. There were nine reinforced trials where the CS was followed by a 1-sec 110-dB noise and five interspersed test trials where the UCS was omitted. A significant CS-UCS Interval by Words interaction was obtained for the GSR and for the digital vasomotor response. Differential conditioning of the GSR was better under the.5- than under the 10-sec interval. In contrast, differential conditioning of the vasomotor response was better under the 10- than under the.5-sec interval. Different optimal CS-UCS intervals for the two kinds of differential conditioned responses appeared to have their effect as a consequence of performance differences rather than a difference in learning.
Patient-reported Outcomes in End-of-Life Research in Pediatric Oncology

Objective The purpose of this review of published literature was to identify the number and focus of empirically based papers that included research methods used to directly solicit patient-reported outcomes (PRO) from pediatric oncology patients at end of life. Methods Key terms including ‘‘pediatric or child and oncology or cancer and end of life or palliative or hospice or dying’’ were used with five data bases (PubMed, Ovid, Cochrane, PsycInfo & PsycArticles, and CINAHL) for English language literature published between January, 2001 and June, 2006. All retrieved documents were independently reviewed by a panel of six (nurses, physicians, and one psychologist) with backgrounds in pediatric oncology. Results Thirty-five publications were identified but nine (25.7%) were eliminated from the analysis as they did not meet inclusion criteria. Of the remaining 26, four (15.4%) included patient-reported outcomes, six (23.1%) included parent only-reported outcomes, and five (19.2%) included staff only-reported outcomes. Nine (34.6%) were retrospective medical record reviews. Two (7.7%) included parent and record review data or parent and physician reports. Conclusions Empirically-based end-of-life publications in pediatric oncology are relatively few in number and nearly 85% of completed studies do not include PRO.
Evaluation of commercially available antibodies to cytokeratin intermediate filaments and laminin in normal cat pinna.

The pattern of distribution of cytokeratin (CK) intermediate filaments can be used to characterize subsets of epithelial tissues. The purpose of the study was to examine the CK expression of feline pinna skin. Six normal feline pinnae were routinely processed in formalin. An immunohistochemical method was used to stain the pinnae with 8 commercially available anti-human CK antibodies (Abs) (PKK1, CAM 5.2, UCD 10/ 11, 35BH11, 34BE12, AE1/AE3, MAK 6, A575) and an anti-human laminin Ab. All the CK Abs selectively localized to epithelium except 35BH11, which did not react with any part of the pinna. Some epithelial subsets were identified by their unique staining pattern with CK Abs. Basal cells but not suprabasal cells of the epidermis stained with PKK1; basal but not lumenal cells of apocrine glands stained with 34BE12. Apocrine glands stained with all CK Abs except 35BH11. All epithelial structures were stained with A575. Basal lamina of epithelial and mesenchymal tissues was clearly identified by the anti-laminin Ab. The results indicate that in cat pinna some commercially available anti-human CK Abs selectively stain subsets of epithelium and adnexa. PKK1, 34BE12, and A575 were the CK Abs with the most consistent staining patterns, the other Abs stained more variably from pinna to pinna. The pattern of epithelial and adnexal staining was similar but not identical to that reported for humans. Epithelial tissues can be characterized by their ex- man CK MAbs may be used in animal epithelia to pression of specific sets of cytokeratin intermediate detect proteins that are the equivalent of human CKs. filaments (CKs). In mammals, the large family of CKs is divided into type I (acidic) and type II (neutral to basic) groups. The major CKs are expressed as specific type I-type II pairs, with the particular combination expressed by different epithelia dependent on the cell type, cellular growth environment, stage of develop- ment and differentiation, and pathologic changes. 3,9 The purpose of this study was to determine, using an immunohistochemical method and a panel of 8 commercially available anti-CK Abs, the CK staining pattern of normal feline skin. We intended this study as a preliminary step to the examination of any changes of CK expression in superficial squamous cell carci-
Experiments on Microwave Scattering of REMPI in Argon, Xenon and Nitric Oxide

Experiments on microwave scattering from resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization (RADAR REMPI) are presented for argon (3+1 REMPI), xenon (2+1 REMPI) and nitric oxide (1+1 REMPI) to demonstrate its capabilities for nonintrusive diagnostics. The time evolution of the microwave scattering from 3+1 REMPI in argon with different frequency tripled Ti:sapphire laser pulse energies at different pressures is given and compared to results from a plasma dynamic model. A polarized, narrowband laser beam is then used to record a three photon resonant REMPI spectrum of argon. For xenon and nitric oxide, mixing upshifted, frequency doubled dye laser was used to demonstrate the Radar REMPI process. The xenon ionization spectra at higher pressures are observed to have asymmetric peaks. The low pressure xenon spectrum was used to calibrate the laser wavelength and linewidth for the nitric oxide measurement. The nitric oxide spectrum obtained matches the REMPI literature.
Inorganic small colloidal particles

The emphasis of study of small inorganic particles is shifting from the single particle to self-assembled aggregates of particles. Accordingly, the colligative properties of ensembles have also become a focus of interest. Advances in the synthesis and in the understanding of the physical properties of ensembles have led to the practical utilization of such networks and arrays, and this trend seems set to continue in the future. Molecular control over the process of particle self-assembly will allow the tailoring of the production of two- and three-dimensional arrays of nanoparticles for a variety of specific applications, probably in optical microelectronics and sensor technologies.
What Is at Stake? : Examination of Virginia Department of Transportation's Land Development Functions

This study investigated ways to improve the effectiveness of the Virginia Department of Transportation's (VDOT's) participation in the land development process. The implications of land development for transportation cannot be overstated, because all transportation demand is based on land use. Understanding how VDOT participates in this process and any current inefficiencies in the process is critical for improving decision making related to land use, which affects the amount of transportation improvements provided by developers in the commonwealth. Increased contributions by developers can substantially increase mobility in the commonwealth. Transportation improvements related to land use are committed and completed development by development. Their combined value, in the range of billions of dollars per year in the commonwealth, is not immediately obvious. VDOT has the opportunity to affect this multibillion-dollar business to maximize the outcome for Virginia. Although localities have all rezoning and ...
Adaptive gas pumping by controlled timing of active microvalves in peristaltic micropumps

We report theoretical and experimental results on adaptive gas pumping by actively controlling microvalve timing in a multi-stage peristaltic micropump. Since gas is compressible, control of timing of the valve actuation relative to pump membrane actuation can modulate gas compression and transfer periods, resulting in adaptive and programmable pumping. A peristaltic 18-stage electrostatic gas micropump that utilizes fluidic resonance for high flow rate and multi-stage peristaltic configuration for high pressure is fabricated and tested. It includes 10 inlet and 9 outlet microvalves. When the duration of time when microvalves are opened is changed between 0.05 and 0.35 cycles, the micropump produced wide ranges of pressure between 7.3 and 3.3 kPa and flow rates between 0.29 and 0.07 sccm. These results correspond to a variation of pressure and flow rate by 110% and 400%, respectively.
Limited recruitment during relaxation events: Larval advection and behavior in an upwelling system

We capitalized on a long-term record of larval recruitment and a distinctive oceanographic signature to reveal how changes in ocean conditions affect larval advection, behavior, and recruitment in a region of strong, persistent upwelling and recruitment limitation. We repeatedly sampled the vertical and horizontal distribution of a larval assemblage and ocean conditions during infrequent relaxations of prevailing upwelling winds near Bodega Bay, California. During prolonged relaxation events, a poleward, coastal, boundary current imported low-salinity surface waters that were devoid of larvae to the study area. The resident larval assemblage was restricted to cold, saline, bottom waters and pushed offshore while diel vertical migrations were suppressed. Hence, changes in oceanographic conditions strongly affected behaviorally mediated larval distributions, revealing the reason that few species recruit during relaxation events in this region. During relaxation events in upwelling regions, poleward coastal boundary currents will force larvae offshore throughout the water column at small headlands and in seaward-flowing bottom currents at straight coastlines, but recruitment may decrease markedly only near estuaries where few larvae will arrive in low-salinity surface waters. Targeted profiling of larval assemblages complements widespread monitoring of recruitment from shore and is necessary to determine how changing ocean conditions affect larval distributions, recruitment dynamics, and the connectivity of populations.
Enhanced parietal cortex activation during location detection in children with autism

Visuospatial processing has been found to be mediated primarily by two cortical routes, one of which is unique to recognizing objects (occipital-temporal, ventral or “what” pathway) and the other to detecting the location of objects in space (parietal-occipital, dorsal or “where” pathway). Considering previous findings of relative advantage in people with autism in visuospatial processing, this functional MRI study examined the connectivity in the dorsal and ventral pathways in high-functioning children with autism. Seventeen high-functioning children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and 19 age-and-IQ-matched typically developing (TD) participants took part in this study. A simple visual task involving object recognition and location detection was used. In the MRI scanner, participants were shown grey scale pictures of objects (e.g., toys, household items, etc.) and were asked to identify the objects presented or to specify the location of objects relative to a cross at the center of the screen. Children with ASD, relative to TD children, displayed significantly greater activation in the left inferior parietal lobule (especially the angular gyrus) while detecting the location of objects. However, there were no group differences in brain activity during object recognition. There were also differences in functional connectivity, with the ASD participants showing decreased connectivity of the inferior temporal area with parietal and occipital areas during location detection. The results of this study underscore previous findings of an increased reliance on visuospatial processing (increased parietal activation) for information processing in ASD individuals. In addition, such processing may be more local, focal, and detailed in ASD as evidenced from the weaker functional connectivity.
Lessons for consumer education policy: the case of the Office of Consumers' Education.

The Office of Consumers' Education existed for almost seven years, disbursing in excess of $18 million for grants and contracts in support of consumer education activities. Stimulated by this funding consumer education evolved and expanded, and many excellent products were produced. At the same time, however, the program experienced substantial difficulties. Poor program design, initial failure to articulate goals and objectives, and inadequate administrative support all served to reduce the potential effect of this program. The OCE experience can provide guidance for future consumer education programs, at any governmental level. There is no need to repeat costly lessons about the form and substance of such programs where the case of OCE provides useful instruction.1
Pressure-Flow Relations in Dog Arteries

The propagation of the arterial pressure and flow pulses through the vascular beds is characterized by marked changes in shape and magnitude. In order to understand better the mechanisms which account for these changes, instantaneous pressures and flows were measured simultaneously at various sites in the arterial tree of 12 anesthetized dogs, using Statham strain gauges and electromagnetic flowmeters. The data were processed by on-line Fourier analysis and the frequency spectra of pressure, flow and vascular impedance at these sites were evaluated. In these dogs about 10% of the cardiac output was distributed to the head, 14% to the kidney, 35% to the gastrointestinal tract, 14% to the pelvic organs and 6% to the legs. The input impedances of the various beds were frequency dependent, the frequency-dependent components varying between 2 and 45% of the corresponding D-C impedances (peripheral vascular resistance). The viscous losses associated with pulsatile flow were larger than those for corresponding s...
Monitoring auditory functions during cranial nerve microvascular decompression operations by direct recording from the eighth nerve

A method is described for recording sound-evoked responses directly from the eighth nerve during operations in the cerebellopontine angle, particularly during microvascular decompression operations for cranial nerve dysfunction. This method provides important information to the surgeon during the operation that cannot be provided by recording brain-stem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP) using surface electrodes. By recording sound-evoked responses intracranially and recording BAEP with scalp electrodes, the risk of hearing loss in these operations is decreased.
Chronic Pemphigus Vulgaris of the Gingiva: A Case Report With a 6‐Year Follow‐up

Since the initial lesions of pemphigus vulgaris often appear in the oral cavity, dentists have a major role in the recognition and diagnosis of this condition. The patient reported here was seen with a mild gingival form of the disease and has been managed successfully for the past 6 years without systemic steroids and with minimal topical steroid therapy. For most of that period he was managed without medication. Various aspects of the disease, including diagnosis, the significance of pemphigus antibodies and therapy are reviewed to provide a better perspective on this case.
Incapacitated and Forcible Rape of College Women: Prevalence Across the First Year

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to document the point and cumulative prevalence of incapacitated rape (IR) and forcible rape (FR) among first-year college women. Methods Female students (N = 483) completed a health questionnaire (1) on arrival on campus; (2) at the end of the fall semester; (3) at the end of the spring semester; and (4) at the end of the summer following their first year of college. Results Before entering college, 18% reported IR (attempted and/or completed), and 15% reported FR (attempted and/or completed). During the first year of college, 15% reported IR (attempted or completed) and 9% reported FR (attempted or completed). By the start of the second year (lifetime prevalence), 26% and 22% had experienced IR and FR (attempted or completed), respectively. Conclusions Both incapacitated and forcible sexual assaults and rape have reached epidemic levels among college women. Interventions to address sexual violence on campus are urgently needed.
First observation of ultraslow group velocity of light in a solid

ABSTRACT We report ultraslowgroup velocities of light in a solid. Light speeds as slowas 45 m/s were observed, corresponding toa group delay of 66 s in a 3-mm thick, optically dense crystal of Pr doped Y 2 SiO 5 . Reduction of the group velocity isaccomplished by using a sharp spectral feature in absorption and dispersion that is produced by resonance Ramanexcitation of a ground-state spin coherence. Potential applications of slow and stopped light for the highly efficientstorage and recall of optical data are discussed.Keywords: Raman scattering, spin coherences, group velocityof light, rare-earth doped materials. 1. INTRODUCTION. Ultraslow light 1,2 has a number of potential applications ranging from the generation of large time delays for beamsteering to the enhancement of the stimulated-Brillouin effect for nonlinear optics 3 . Producing slow light usingElectromagnetically Induced Transparency (EIT) 4 has additional advantages. For example, the resultant giantnonlinearity obtained by this method might be utilized for efficient multi-wave mixing and quantum nondemolitionmeasurements
Toward a Theology of Infertility and the Role of Donum Vitae

A theology of infertility is needed to help couples and the broader ecclesial community understand the theological implications of infertility. Infertility raises questions about human freedom, finitude, embodiment, childlessness, and parenthood. In this article, dominant cultural assumptions surrounding each of these areas when considering reproductive technologies are sketched. Official Roman Catholic teaching on reproductive technologies (Donum Vitae), while rejecting most forms of such technologies, does provide a viable response to the presupposition that reproductive technologies resolve infertility. Given the dominant cultural assumptions and insights from Roman Catholic teaching, this article advocates for several ecclesial changes when considering infertility. Finally, theological resources for developing a theology of infertility are offered. Specifically, insights from Karl Rahner's theology of concupiscence are examined with an eye toward how they provide a framework for rethinking the cultural assumptions about freedom and finitude when considering reproductive technologies.
Impact of Low-Dose Oral Exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) on Juvenile and Adult Rat Exploratory and Anxiety Behavior: A CLARITY-BPA Consortium Study.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high volume production chemical and has been identified as an endocrine disruptor, prompting concern that developmental exposure could impact brain development and behavior. Rodent and human studies suggest that early life BPA exposure may result in an anxious, hyperactive phenotype but results are conflicting and data from studies using multiple doses below the no-observed-adverse-effect level are limited. To address this, the present studies were conducted as part of the CLARITY-BPA (Consortium Linking Academic and Regulatory Insights on BPA Toxicity) program. The impact of perinatal BPA exposure (2.5, 25, or 2500 µg/kg body weight (bw)/day) on behaviors related to anxiety and exploratory activity was assessed in juvenile (prepubertal) and adult NCTR Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes. Ethinyl estradiol (0.5 µg/kg bw/day) was used as a reference estrogen. Exposure spanned gestation and lactation with dams gavaged from gestational day 6 until birth and then the offspring gavaged directly through weaning (n = 12/sex/group). Behavioral assessments included open field, elevated plus maze, and zero maze. Anticipated sex differences in behavior were statistically identified or suggested in most cases. No consistent effects of BPA were observed for any endpoint, in either sex, at either age compared to vehicle controls; however, significant differences between BPA-exposed and ethinyl estradiol-exposed groups were identified for some endpoints. Limitations of this study are discussed and include suboptimal statistical power and low concordance across behavioral tasks. These data do not indicate BPA-related effects on anxiety or exploratory activity in these developmentally exposed rats.
Inquiry and Denial: Helen Fremont's Anguish of Silence

(2008). Inquiry and Denial: Helen Fremont's Anguish of Silence. a/b: Auto/Biography Studies: Vol. 23, Paul John Eakin and James Olney: A Festschrift, pp. 65-79.
The politics and economics of dependent children's mental health care financing: the Oklahoma paradox.

During the past decade, Oklahoma has searched for a coherent policy toward neglected and emotionally disturbed children who need mental health services. Due to a lack of funding for group homes and community based programs, children have instead been placed in psychiatric hospitals. Currently, more than 1,000 of Okla homa's dependent children are in psychiatric hospitals at any one time, costing the taxpayers approximately $40 million a year in Medicaid funds (Tulsa World, December 11:A4). This article examines the practice of using psychiatric hospitals to treat emotionally disturbed children who are dependents of the state. Using the State of Oklahoma as a case for analysis, this article will address the following questions: 1) In regard to treatment effective ness, are psychiatric hospitals the appropriate level of treatment for emotionally disturbed children? 2) What other alternative treatment programs are available? and 3) Given alternative programs for emotionally disturbed children, are psychiatric hospitals the most cost effective treatment?
Spicy Pepper Consumption and Preferences in the United States

Little data are publicly available about U.S. spicy pepper (Capsicum sp.) consumers and their type-specific preferences. This research adds to the body of knowledge surrounding the demand side of the U.S. spicy pepper market by providing exploratory data to examine U.S. consumer preferences as they relate to seven common spicy pepper types: cayenne (Capsicum annuum), habanero (Capsicum chinense), jalapeno (C. annuum), New Mexico-type long green and red (C. annuum), paprika (C. annuum), poblano/ancho (C. annuum), and serrano (C. annuum) peppers. Data were collected using an online panel survey of 1104 consumers. Results suggest that jalapeno peppers were the most popular fresh spicy pepper purchased by participating food consumers. Paprika powder, a relatively mild spicy pepper product, was the most widely-consumed dried or ground pepper of the seven studied. Women appear more likely to be non-likers of spicy foods than men (P £ 0.05). Responses of this survey group suggest that many consumers enjoy spicy peppers and that consumption varies by pepper type. Finally, the most popular pepper types do not necessarily appear to be the ‘‘hottest’’ or ‘‘mildest’’ of those available in the market.
Über die Genese der Retinitis angiospastica: Untersuchungen am Halbnierenhund

An 3 Halbnierenhunden, die 4, 38 und 68 Monate nach der Nierenverkleinerung noch lebenswarm zur Autopsie kamen, wurde uber langere Zeit ophthalmoskopisch das Verhalten des Augenhintergrundes verfolgt. Dabei wurde eine zunehmende Engerstellung der Arterien bei meist gut gefullten, zum Teil gestauten Venen festgestellt. Bei dem langst uberlebenden Tier konnte das Auftreten von weisen Herden und Pigmentflecken beobachtet werden, bei einem anderen entwickelte sich ein Odem der Papille.
Evaluating the Selection of Normal-Theory Weight Matrices in the Satorra–Bentler Correction of Chi-Square and Standard Errors

In the application of the Satorra–Bentler scaling correction, the choices of normal-theory weight matrices (i.e., the model-predicted vs. the sample covariance matrix) in the calculation of the correction remains unclear. Different software programs use different matrices by default. This simulation study investigates the discrepancies due to the weight matrices in the robust chi-square statistics, standard errors, and chi-square-based model fit indexes. This study varies the sample sizes at 100, 200, 500, and 1,000; kurtoses at 0, 7, and 21; and degrees of model misspecification, measured by the population root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), at 0, .03, .05, .08, .10, and .15. The results favor the use of the model-predicted covariance matrix because it results in less false rejection rates under the correctly specified model, as well as more accurate standard errors across all conditions. For the sample-corrected robust RMSEA, comparative fit index (CFI) and Tucker–Lewis index (TLI), 2 matri...
Bowling for dollars: title sponsorship of college football bowls.

Corporate title sponsorship of college football bowl games has proliferated over the past two decades, yet little analysis has been made concerning the returns to these investments. This article examines the impact that title sponsorships have had on the stock value of the corporate sponsors. Using event study analysis, we find that there was no significant change, on average, in the stock prices following the sponsorship announcements. However, a cross-sectional analysis of changes in firm stock prices relative to corporate and bowl characteristics reveals that markets view sponsorships by large and high-tech firms negatively and major bowls positively.
Social Networks and Minority Male College Access: The “Tip of the Iceberg” Phenomena:

Using a qualitative approach, we sought to understand the social networks and decision-making strategies of minority males as they choose to attend a postsecondary institution. Data were obtained f...
Effects of Helicobacter Pylori on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit Iin esophageal carcinoma cells

Objective To study the effects of H.pylori(Hp) on the expressions of COXⅠ mRNA and protein in esophageal carcinoma cells,and explore the potential role of Hp in carcinogenesis.Methods After ECa-109 cells were treated by Hp for 4,8,24 h respectively,the expression of COX Ⅰ mRNA and protein was detected by Real-Time PCR and Western blot.Results After ECa-109 cells were treated by Hp for 4,8,24 h respectively,the expression of COX Ⅰ mRNA decreased gradually,after exposure to Hp for 4 h,the expression of COX Ⅰ significantly lower than control group,than the decreasing speed slowed When treated with Hp for 24 h,the expression have no significant changes.The expression of COXⅠ protein revealed the same trend.Conclusion Hp can affect mitochondrial function by down regulating the expression of mitochondrial encoding cytochrome oxidase Ⅰgene.
Investigation and analysis of malaria prevention and control measures for migrant workers to high prevalence area in Hubei province

Objective To understand the prevention and control situation of migrant workers to high malaria area in our province,and put forward measures to control import malaria. Methods Data of sending units,number of workers,the countrys sending to,and whether malaria preventive measures were taken etc,were collected from Wuhan,Yichang,Huangshi,Qianjiang cities. Data of the workers basic situation,the date of return,overseas malaria incidence and symptoms,working period,and whether personal protection and knowledge about malaria prevention were trained etc were also obtained. Results From 2011 to 2012,there were 26 enterprises and companies in four cities sending workers to Africa and southeast Asia,altogether 35 countries,and 10 171 workers,including unit emloyees,5 553,( 54. 60%),external staff,4 618( 45. 40%). The proportion of migrant workers accepting malaria prevention knowledge training,accounted for62. 62%. 1 025 people of staff returned,among them,175 were malaria patients、the prevalence,was 17. 07%,in which workers' prevalence was higher than that of other staff. Further more,workers of elementary grade education had higher prevalence than that with junior high school grade,Workers who had not received malaria prevention knowledge training had higher prevalence than those without receiving training. Conclusion The major measures to control malaria infection are to perform malaria prevention knowledge training and,to strengthen individual protection to avoid being infected in malria endemic countries.
Peak nasal inspiratory flow and Wright peak flow: a comparison of their reproducibility.

The measurement of peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) is a rapid, convenient, and objective way to assess nasal patency. It is used much less commonly, however, than Wright Peak Flow (WPF), in part, because of concerns about its reproducibility. In order to compare the reproducibility of PNIF with WPF, we obtained multiple measurements of both flows in each of ten healthy, nonsmoking, trained subjects five times throughout the same day and daily throughout the same week. Mean PNIFs (L/min) were 140 immediately after arising, 170 at breakfast time, 183 at lunch time, 170 at dinner time, and 161 at bedtime. Corresponding mean WPFs were 528, 528, 535, 535 and 531 L/min. Peak nasal inspiratory flow coefficients of variation representing minute to minute, hour to hour, and day to day variation were 9.8, 13.5, and 9.7, respectively. Corresponding coefficients of variation with WPF, 2.4, 1.9, and 2.3, were significantly lower. Variability of PNIF and WPF did not increase with increased time spans, suggesting that variation in airway size is less important than variation in technique. Responses to intranasal oxymetazoline, as determined by changes in PNIF and changes in subjective assessments of nasal patency, were then evaluated in ten patients with nasal obstruction. These persons noted a mean subjective improvement of 68% (P = .0002) and demonstrated a mean objective improvement of 21% (P = .05). Posttreatment PNIFs of many individuals who reported substantial subjective improvement failed to exceed the expected variability of the test. This experience fails to demonstrate the utility of PNIF determinations for routine clinical use.
A Tribute to A. John Coleman — The “Tame” Mathematician

It is certainly a great honor and privilege for me to be asked to give the after-dinner speech at this conference dedicated to Professor A. John Coleman, and it is also a personal pleasure since I am indebted to him in many different ways.
Troponin I Tyrosine Phosphorylation Modulates Cardiac Contraction

Phosphorylation of the troponin inhibitory subunit (TnI) represents a fundamental mechanism of the heart to modulate cardiac contractile function in response to altered physiological or pathological demand. The phosphorylation of TnI at tyrosine 26 (Tyr-26) represents the first myofilament tyrosine phosphorylation identified in the human heart. We demonstrate the phosphorylation of Tyr-26 decreases calcium sensitive force development and accelerates calcium dissociation from the thin filament supporting the role for Tyr-26 phosphorylation in contractile regulation. Additionally, TnI Tyr-26 and the basally phosphorylated Ser-23/24 exhibit functional and signaling integration. That is, the combination of TnI Tyr-26 with Ser-23/24 phosphorylation further accelerates calcium dissociation beyond that of Ser-23/24 or Tyr-26 alone, without additionally decreasing calcium sensitivity. Furthermore, the presence of Ser-23/24 phosphorylation promotes Src family tyrosine kinase mediated phosphorylation of TnI Tyr-26. Taken as a whole, these data support tyrosine kinase mediated myofilament phosphorylation of TnI as a mechanism of cardiac function modulation.
Where arithmetic and phonology meet: The meta-analytic convergence of arithmetic and phonological processing in the brain

Arithmetic facts can be solved using different strategies. Research suggests that some arithmetic problems, particularly those solved by fact retrieval, are related to phonological processing ability and elicit activity in left-lateralized brain regions that support phonological processing. However, it is unclear whether common brain regions support both retrieval-based arithmetic and phonological processing, and if these regions differ across children and adults. This study used activation likelihood estimation to investigate functional neural overlap between arithmetic and phonological processing, separately for children and adults. The meta-analyses in children showed six clusters of overlapping activation concentrated in bilateral frontal regions and in the left fusiform gyrus. The meta-analyses in adults yielded two clusters of concordant activity, one in the left inferior frontal gyrus and one in the left inferior parietal lobule. A qualitative comparison across the two age groups suggests that children show more bilateral and diffuse activation than adults, which may reflect attentional processes that support more effortful processing in children. The present meta-analyses contribute novel insights into the relationship between retrieval-based arithmetic and phonological processing in the brain across children and adults, and brain regions that may support processing of more complex symbolic representations, such as arithmetic facts and words.
Physical Experiments and Numerical Simulation of Two Dimensional Chute Flow

Synopsis Numerical simulations and physical experiments were used to study the two dimensional flow of disks in a chute. For a chute with a fixed geometry, inclination, and material properties the physical experiments and their computer simulations produced a series of steady, uniform flows over a range of bulk solids concentrations from approximately C=0.1 to C=0.7. These results were in contrast to findings obtained from the numerical integration of the governing equations that described the corresponding boundary value problem. General agreement was observed between computer simulated values of velocity and solids concentration and those dtermined from physical experiments.
Assessment of Airway Inflammation in Asthma Using Non-Invasive Methods

Clinical measurement has become an essential complement to traditional physical diagnosis. An ideal clinical measurement should be quantitative, have a high level of reliability and accuracy, be safe, acceptable to the patient, easy to perform and non-invasive. The latter demands that the technique should not break the skin or the lining epithelium and should be devoid of effects on the tissues of the body by the dissipation of energy or the introduction of infection [1]. It is therefore logical that for a given measurement, a non-invasive test will be preferred if it provides the same information with the same accuracy and precision.
The Emergence of Software Engineering Professionalism

The term “software engineering” was coined forty years ago as a metaphor for the processes involved in designing and constructing large-scale software systems. Since that time, the term has gradually come to refer to a professional engineering discipline. This paper will describe the role played by professional societies in the creation of the professional discipline of software engineering in the United States and Canada.
Cosmic rays and climate

Abstract Climate change and global warming is generally attributed to increases in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Other possible contributing effects are constantly being sought. Because of the importance of solar irradiance as a driver of climate, and because the widely known effect of the solar cycle on cosmic rays, it has been speculated for more than 50 years that cosmic ray variations may have an impact on climate. The question has been how. A proposed mechanism would be through the effect of ionization from cosmic rays on the rates of nucleation of cloud condensation nuclei. The result would be an impact of the rate of cosmic rays on cloud formation that would subsequently impact the reflection of incoming short wavelengths and the trapping of outgoing long radiation; more cosmic rays would lead to more clouds and a net cooling of the planet (and visa-versa). This paper concludes that while the effect may operate, it is not sufficiently robust to be a significant contributor to the current warming of the planet.