cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Iodine 131 thyroid ablation in female children and adolescents: long-term risk of infertility and birth defects.

Background: The use of radioactive iodine, or iodine 131 (131I), for remnant thyroid ablation and the treatment of cervical and distant metastatic disease in patients with thyroid cancer is well accepted.131I concentrates in the bladder, and irradiation to the ovaries has been theorized to increase the risk of infertility and birth defects in subsequent offspring.
Development of Standards for Characterization of Cathodoluminescence Efficiency

Cathodolurninescence (CL) characterization in a demountable vacuum chamber is an important benchmarking tool for flat-panel display phosphors and screens. The proper way to perform these measurements is to minimize the effects of secondary electrons, excite the phosphor/screen with a uniform beam profile, and maintain a clean vacuum environment. CL measurements are important for preliminary evaluation and lifetesting of phosphor powders and screens prior to incorporation into the FPD. A survey of many CL characterization systems currently in use revealed the myriad of spectroradiometers, colorimeters, electron guns, vacuum pumps, mass spectrometers, etc. that introduce many avenues for error that are often difficult to isolate. A preliminary round-robin experiment was coordinated by Sandia and invoIved five other research groups. The purpose of this experiment was to obtain an indication of equipment capabilities and instrument variations, as well as reliability and consistency of results. Each group was asked to measure the luminence (cd/m{sup 2}) and chromaticity coordinates of a Y{sub 3}Al{sub 2}Ga{sub 3}O{sub 12}: Tb pellet and calculate the luminous efficiency. Pellets were chosen in order to reduce errors associated with processing and handling of powders or screens. Some of the data reported in this experiment were in good agreement while others differed significantly. Determining sources of error in CL measurements is an ongoing effort. By performing this experiment, we were able to identify some of the causes of error and develop a characterization protocol for display phosphors.
Immunofluorescence localization of proteins of high molecular weight along intracellular microtubules

To help clarify the role, in cytoplasmic microtubule function, of the proteins of high molecular weight that coassemble with tubulin in vitro, a monospecific antibody against the proteins of high molecular weight was prepared from the serum of immunized rabbits by affinity chromatography. With indirect immunofluorescence we found that the protein in both cultured neuroblastoma cells and 3T3 cells in distributed in an extensive filamentous array that originates at sites near the nucleus and extends to the cell periphery or, in neuroblastoma cells, gathers into bundles which enter neurites. No filaments were seen with nonspecific antibodies from serum taken before immunization, and prior incubation of the specific antibody with purified protein of high molecular weight (but not tubulin) prevented filament visualization. The filamentous pattern in 3T3 cells was disrupted by colchicine. This evidence indicates that the proteins of high molecular weight are found in cells in association with cytoplasmic microtubules.
Depth of tissue ablation and residual thermal damage caused by a pixilated 2,940 nm laser in a swine skin model.

Background/Objective The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of fluence, pulse stacking, and multiple passes on the depth of injury caused by a fractionated Er:YAG laser in an in vivo farm pig model. Design/Material/Methods A fractionated 2,940 nm Er:YAG laser (Pixel, Alma Lasers, Caesarea, Israel) was applied to the flank skin of a Yorkshire cross pig. The 11 mm×11 mm handpiece was comprised of either 49 or 81 microbeams (200 µm diameter), depending on the tip configuration. There were six different parameter sets divided according to total energy per pulse (150, 285, and 500 mJ) and tip type (81 or 49 microbeams per 11 mm×11 mm macrospot). Each of these six groups was subdivided according to number of stacked pulses (1, 3, and 6) and number of passes (1, 3, and 6). This resulted in a total of 36 treatment parameters. Results With the 49 microbeam configuration, a single pulse resulted in partial epidermal ablation at 150 mJ, complete epidermal ablation at 285 mJ and partial dermal ablation at 500 mJ to a depth of 90 µm. Stacking the pulses resulted in a significant increase in ablation with each fluence with the maximal depth of ablation measured at 140 µm after six stacked pulses at 500 mJ. Increasing the number of passes did not result in a significant increase in ablative depth, but did create a larger surface area of ablation. Residual thermal damage (RTD) was minimal and remained between 10 and 20 µm. Conclusions The fractionated Er:YAG laser exhibited some of the same tissue interactions as its fully ablative counterparts. An increase in fluence resulted in an increase in ablative depth with minimal RTD. Additionally, RTD was unaffected by pulse stacking or by additional passes. Differences were that pulse stacking appeared to yield a more rapid decrease in ablation efficiency and additional passes did not seem to increase the depth of ablation. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:808–811, 2010. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Exact probability-density function for phase-measurement interferometry

Conventional analyses of the accuracy of phase-measurement interferometry derive a figure of merit that is either a variance or a signal-to-noise ratio. We derive the probability-density function of the phase-measurement output, so that the measurement confidence interval can be determined. We include both laser phase noise and additive Gaussian noise, and we consider both unmodulated interferometers and those employing phase or frequency modulation. For both unmodulated and modulated interferometers the confidence interval can be obtained by numerical integration of the probability-density function. For the modulated interferometer we derive a series summation for the confidence interval. For both unmodulated and modulated interferometers we derive approximate analytical expressions for the confidence interval, which we show to be extremely accurate at high signal-to-noise ratios.
New black holes in five dimensions

We construct new stationary Ricci-flat metrics of cohomogeneity 2 in five dimensions, which generalise the Myers–Perry rotating black hole metrics by adding a further non-trivial parameter. We obtain them via a construction that is analogous to the construction by Plebanski and Demianski in four dimensions of the most general type D metrics. Limiting cases of the new metrics contain not only the general Myers–Perry black hole with independent angular momenta, but also the single rotation black ring of Emparan and Reall. In another limit, we obtain new static metrics that describe black holes whose horizons are distorted lens spaces L(n;m)=S3/Γ(n;m)L(n;m)=S3/Γ(n;m), where m⩾n+2⩾3m⩾n+2⩾3. They are asymptotic to Minkowski spacetime factored by Γ(m;n)Γ(m;n). In the general stationary case, by contrast, the new metrics describe spacetimes with a horizon and with a periodicity condition on the time coordinate; these examples can be thought of as five-dimensional analogues of the four-dimensional Taub–NUT metrics.
Mixed field dosimetry of epithermal neutron beams for boron neutron capture therapy at the MITR-II research reactor.

During the past several years, there has been growing interest in BoronNeutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) using epithermal neutron beams. The dosimetry of these beams is challenging. The incident beam is comprised mostly of epithermal neutrons, but there is some contamination from photons and fast neutrons. Within the patient, the neutron spectrum changes rapidly as the incident epithermal neutronsscatter and thermalize, and a photon field is generated from neutron capture in hydrogen. In this paper, a method to determine the doses from thermal and fast neutrons,photons, and the B‐10(n,α)Li‐7 reaction is presented. The photon and fast neutron doses are measured with ionization chambers, in realistic phantoms, using the dual chamber technique. The thermal neutron flux is measured with gold foils using the cadmium difference technique; the thermal neutron and B‐10 doses are determined by the kerma factor method. Representative results are presented for a unilateral irradiation of the head. Sources of error in the method as applied to BNCT dosimetry, and the uncertainties in the calculated doses are discussed.
Re-feeding and the restoration of odor attractivity, odor preference, and sexual receptivity in food-deprived female meadow voles

Food-deprived meadow voles were used to test predictions of two hypotheses associated with the recovery of sexual behaviors following re-feeding. Specifically, we tested between the body weight set point and metabolic fuels hypotheses. To do so, we determined whether the body weight of previously food-deprived female voles had to return to pre-food deprivation levels before they would recover their sexual behaviors. The body weight set point hypothesis predicts that food-deprived females that were re-fed will recover their sexual behavior after they return to their original body weight. In contrast, the metabolic fuels hypothesis predicts that food-deprived females that were re-fed will recover their sexual behavior before they return to their original body weight. That is, when the females are in positive energy balance. To distinguish between these two hypotheses, female voles were food deprived for 24 h, which is sufficient to inhibit all three components of sexual behavior. The food-deprived females were then supplied ad libitum food for 0 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, or 96 h and weighed. Females were then tested for their sexual behaviors (odor attractivity, odor preference or proceptivity, sexual receptivity). Re-feeding for 48 h was sufficient to restore odor attractivity, 72 h was sufficient to restore odor preferences for opposite sex conspecific odors, and 96 h was sufficient to restore sexual receptivity to those similar to that of females that were not food deprived. The time-points that the behaviors were recovered were prior to voles recovering their initial body weight. Thus, the data support the metabolic fuels hypothesis.
The design of guided learner-adaptable scaffolding in interactive learning environments

This dissertation addresses the challenge of designing software for the changing needs of learners by demonstrating an approach to the design of scaffolding in educational software. The approach, Guided Learner-Adaptable Scaffolding (GLAS), proposes that software be designed with learning supports that are fadeable by learners, with guidance from the software to help learners make fading decisions. A set of guidelines were proposed for the design of GLAS in interactive learning environments. In order to test these guidelines, they were applied to the design of a tool, TheoryBuilder, that supports learners building and testing dynamic models of complex systems. TheoryBuilder was tested in classroom use by approximately 95 9th grade students who used the tool three times during a school year. Eight focus students were videotaped throughout their use of the software in all three tasks, in order to record in depth their usage of and reactions to the software for qualitative evaluation. The models created by all of the 95 students in the class were also collected in order to compile quantitative statistical information about the students' changing use of scaffolding and fading mechanisms over time. Analysis of the data showed that TheoryBuilder generally achieved its goal of providing scaffolding for the modeling task. The scaffolding made the modeling task initially accessible, and students were able to fade scaffolding as they developed expertise. Students built larger and more complex models over time, fading scaffolding to use more advanced features and to turn off help that they no longer needed. The guidance provided with the scaffolding also appeared to help the students make informed decisions about fading scaffolding. The GLAS design guidelines were analyzed and revised in light of the data, and are offered as guidelines for the development of software that provides both accessibility and support for the development of expertise.
Policy roots of land degradation in the arid region of the United States: An overview

The roots of land degradation in the arid region of the United States are set firmly in the era of open range conditions that led to the depletion of rangeland resources in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Upon closure of the open range and establishment of the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, public lands in the arid region were protected from the classic tragedy of the commons. Private lands, in turn, fell under the stewardship guidance of such organizations as the Soil Conservation Service, the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service, and the Cooperative Extension Service. Despite these institutional protections, arid land degradation continues at an ecologically and socially unacceptable rate. The most likely explanation for this degradation resides in the institutions and public policies that shape and control livestock grazing. Flaws and disincentives endemic to the grazing permit system have encouraged destructive grazing. Federal subsidies to public- and private-land ranchers have encouraged rangeland stocking rates in excess of carrying capacity on economically and ecologically marginal lands and consistently favored unsound land management practices over superior ones. Policy-generated distortions of market forces have lead to unanticipated and environmentally undesirable land use outcomes. Land management, technical support, and educational institutions have also inadvertently contributed to land degradation in the arid region. Reversing the trend of land degradation in an advanced country like the United States demands that we understand the role of public policy in land use outcomes and that we structure future public policies in accordance with the lessons of recent history.
Chemical Structure of VULCANIZED RUBBER

Abstract A CENTURY ago, Charles Goodyear in America and Th. Hancock in England found that the properties of crude rubber could be greatly improved by heating it with sulfur. The product resulting was more elastic, more resistant to tear and abrasion, less affected by solvents, and decidedly less thermoplastic. The treatment of rubber to give these desired properties is known generally as vulcanization and must be considered as the basis for the enormous growth of the rubber industry and the extensive use of rubber products in our everyday life. Broadly speaking, vulcanization involves the reaction, in some fashion, of sulfur with rubber. Extensive investigation has revealed other substances, such as benzoyl peroxide or polynitrobenzenes, which can transform rubber into a “vulcanized” condition. Experience has also shown that metallic salts of zinc or lead and especially certain organic compounds called “accelerators” greatly affect the rate of vulcanization, and these are favorably employed in practice. A...
Treatment planning for dose escalation in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Abstract This study was performed to examine potential field arrangements for irradiating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) on a dose escalation study. An example patient was chosen and 7 coplanar treatment plans were created to treat a NSCLC. Two plans included prophylactic nodal irradiation (PNRT) and 5 did not. Four plans used 4 fields, 2 plans used 5 fields, and 1 plan included dynamic conformal 360° rotational therapy. All plans delivered 80 Gy to the isocenter with 10-MV x-rays. Each plan was initially created without dose inhomogeneity corrections and then was recalculated with these corrections, maintaining the same weighting and number of monitor units. Avoiding PNRT spared a considerable volume of normal tissue from radiation. Plans with 5 fields generally spared normal tissues better than 4-field plans. There was no benefit to the dynamic conformal 360° rotational plan. Inhomogeneity corrections revealed that higher doses were delivered to both the tumor and normal structures. Seven beam arrangements for the treatment of NSCLC were compared to develop potential beam arrangements that would be applicable to treating NSCLC on a multi-institutional dose escalation study. We favor the use of at least 5 beams in most situations. It is possible that the use of more fields would further improve plans up to a point of diminishing returns, as exemplified by the lack of benefit seen with the dynamic conformal 360° rotational plan. It is possible that the use of noncoplanar fields or intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) may further improve the therapeutic ratio.
Changes in the dominance of word associations following verbal repetition

The present study investigated the changes in association following repetition when, for an individual S, the word originally elicited an associate that was either of high-, medium-, or low-associative dominance in the cultural hierarchy. Twelve words, which initially elicited associates in one of these three categories for a particular S, were visually exposed and verbally repeated by 24 Ss. It was found that, following repetition, there tended to be a regression toward medium-dominance associates although the effect was clear only in the high-dominance category. The results are analagous to those found by Yelen and Schulz (1963) in regard to semantic differential ratings following verbal repetition. Further, when the cultural word-associations norms are imposed on the individual hierarchy, an artifact might occur that explains the results of the present investigation and an earlier one by Smith and Raygor (1956) .
Three-Dimensional X-ray Microtomography

The new technique of x-ray microtomography nondestructively generates three-dimensional maps of the x-ray attenuation coefficient inside small samples with approximately 1 percent accuracy and with resolution approaching 1 micrometer. Spatially resolved elemental maps can be produced with synchrotron x-ray sources by scanning samples at energies just above and below characteristic atomic absorption edges. The system consists of a high-resolution imaging x-ray detector and high-speed algorithms for tomographic image reconstruction. The design and operation of the microtomography device are described, and tomographic images that illustrate its performance with both synchrotron and laboratory x-ray sources are presented.
Anomalous attachment of mitral valve causing subaortic atresia. Observations in a case with other cardiac anomalies and multiple spleens.

In a newborn female infant with persistent common atrioventricular canal, subaortic atresia resulting from attachment of the anterior mitral leaflet to the ventricular septum was observed. The cavity of the left ventricle was hypoplastic, while the wall was hypertrophied. The case illustrates the most severe degree of subaortic obstruction that may result from anomalous attachment of the mitral valve to the ventricular septum. Also present were multiple spleens, and other cardiovascular anomalies. The last included junction of a persistent left superior vena cava with the left atrium, absence of the coronary sinus, absence of the limbi of the fossa ovalis, and an anomalous connection of the right pulmonary veins to the right atrium.
Plant dormancy, a mechanism involving assorted molecular, physiological, and cellular processes

This preface to the Special Issue on plant dormancy provides an overview of articles related to our current understanding of molecular, physiological, and cellular processes involved with seed and bud dormancy, information related to the history of the International Symposium on Plant Dormancy (ISPD), highlights from the 4th ISPD, and perspectives on achievements and the direction of future plant dormancy research. In general, plant dormancy can be defined as a process that inhibits growth or germination in spite of suitable environmental conditions. Plant dormancy is typically manifested in numerous vegetative and reproductive tissues including seeds, tubers, bulbs, corms, rhizomes, stolons, and axillary, apical and adventitious buds. Temperature, photoperiod, phytohormones, nutrients, and myriad of genes and proteins, at some point in time, affect multifactorial regulatory networks involved in the orchestrated control of plant dormancy. As a result, plant dormancy confers various advantages to crop and other plants by synchronizing environmental cues to developmental processes which ensure survival. In turn, dormancy also imparts some negative impacts such as pre-harvest sprouting, non-uniform germination of crop and weed seeds, and fruit loss due to inappropriate bud break. Thus, our continued quest to gather, share, and disseminate information is important in moving our understanding of plant dormancy forward and to develop new ideas for improving food production and efficient weed control. Participants of the ISPD have gathered approximately every four to five years since 1995. The 4th ISPD was held
Diagnostic accuracy of cyst fluid amphiregulin in pancreatic cysts

Accurate tests to diagnose adenocarcinoma and high-grade dysplasia among mucinous pancreatic cysts are clinically needed. This study evaluated the diagnostic utility of amphiregulin (AREG) as a pancreatic cyst fluid biomarker to differentiate non-mucinous, benign mucinous, and malignant mucinous cysts. A single-center retrospective study to evaluate AREG levels in pancreatic cyst fluid by ELISA from 33 patients with a histological gold standard was performed. Among the cyst fluid samples, the median (IQR) AREG levels for non-mucinous (n = 6), benign mucinous (n = 15), and cancerous cysts (n = 15) were 85 pg/ml (47-168), 63 pg/ml (30-847), and 986 pg/ml (417-3160), respectively. A significant difference between benign mucinous and malignant mucinous cysts was observed (p = 0.025). AREG levels greater than 300 pg/ml possessed a diagnostic accuracy for cancer or high-grade dysplasia of 78% (sensitivity 83%, specificity 73%). Cyst fluid AREG levels are significantly higher in cancerous and high-grade dysplastic cysts compared to benign mucinous cysts. Thus AREG exhibits potential clinical utility in the evaluation of pancreatic cysts.
The Fundamental Dilemma of Teacher Leader-Facilitated Professional Development: Do as I (Kind of) Say, Not as I (Sort of) Do

Purpose: This article focuses on a specific model of teacher leadership in schools—the studio classroom. In answering the call for more targeted studies of teacher leadership, the study is designed to assist educational leaders in putting in place the organizational and social structures that allow teacher leaders to have the most positive impact on teachers. Research questions focused on perceptions, enactment, and impact of the studio classroom. Research Methods: The research took place over a 2-year period (2008-2010), with six teacher leader-participants from four school districts. Data collection included individual and group interviews and extensive on site observation, as well as administrator interviews. Analytic procedures were qualitative, grounded in the teacher leadership literature and a sociocultural teacher learning framework. Findings and Implications: Across sites, a diminished understanding and appreciation for the teacher learning process left no sanctioned space to learn from mistakes....
Materials For Fast Switching And Logic Devices

Nonlinear optical properties of some materials, which are of current interest, are reviewed. Emphasis is put on GaAs-A1GaAs multiple-quantum-wells, bulk GaAs and CdSxSi_x-doped glasses. The use of these materials for high-speed optical logic devices is described. Optical NOR-gate operation of a GaAs-AlGaAs etalon with picosecond switch-on and off times is high-lighted. Optical materials are attractive both for device applications as well as for the fundamental understanding of their optical properties. Optical characterization of nonlinear materials is a subject of extensive research efforts by several groups. Interaction of light with matter, especially at high excitation levels, and the subsequent many-body effects are of fundamental importance. The physics of high density exciton phenomena, dynamics of electron-electron and electron-phonon interactions in semiconductors are of particular interest. Generation of femtosecond laser pulses and application of short-pulse techniques allow direct measurements of these dynamical effects with incredible time-resolution. Optical nonlinear materials play an important role in optical devices.1,2,3 Optical signal processing and ultimately optical computing depend critically on nonlinear materials. Nonlinear optical devices need materials with rapid response times, large nonlinearity and room-temperature capability. Optical bistable devices and logic gates are essential for parallel processing, while guided wave devices are needed for serial applications.
A administração estratégica de programas de responsabilidade social em empresas multinacionais: percepções da alta diretoria

This research presents an analysis of top management's perception in U.S. MNCs of corporate social responsibility programs, from a general survey of 18 home offices (29 respondents) and a focus survey of four selected firms (33 respondents, 17 from home and 16 from overseas). The firms figure among FORTUNE 500, each with annual sales exceeâing US$ one billion, in manufacturing, processing, and extractive sectors. The material focuses on MNCs decision- making process. Data were collected during 1982-1983. Some major findings are: strategic management of social responsibility programs for MNCs internaI publics is found, although models are not very systematic; resources are committed, although somewhat constrained due to costs considerations; such programs lay behind those in marketing and pro duction; threats from externaI and internaI environ ments exert changes on strategic management processes, the biggest coming from employees and labor groups; among others.
The Lived-Experience of Leading a Successful Police Vehicle Pursuit: A Descriptive Phenomenological Psychological Inquiry

AbstractPolice vehicle pursuits are inherently dangerous, rapidly evolving, and require police coordination to safely stop and arrest the suspect. Interviews of three US police officers were conducted and the descriptive phenomenological psychological method was used to analyze their naive accounts of their lived-experiences. The psychological constituents of the experience of leading a successful chase and capture of a fleeing criminal found are: (1) Alert to Possible Car Chase, (2) Suspect Identified, (3) Anxiety and Excitement About the Chase, (4) Awareness of Primary Chase Role, (5) Radio Coordination with Others to Take Actions to Stop the Suspect, (6) Ongoing Evaluation of Chase Situation and Persistence, (7) Reading the Suspect’s Driving Behaviors, (8) Car Chase Transition to a Coordinated Physical Capture, and (9) Making Sense of the Experience Through Inquiry. Insights garnered from this study may be useful to police, policy makers, trainers and others interested in emergency and crisis decision-making.
‘On a business basis’: an American Garden City

Mariemont, Ohio, began as the project of a wealthy reform‐minded American woman who wanted to build a new town for the working people of her city of Cincinnati. Mary Emery, with the help of her business advisor Charles Livingood, hired planner John Nolen in 1921 to design the model town. Construction of this American Garden City began in 1925 using the Garden City idea introduced by Ebenezer Howard in 1898, and practised in England at Letchworth (1903) and Welwyn Garden City (1920). Mariemont represented the first fully articulated Garden City in the United States, as opposed to earlier attempts that had resulted in either suburban bedroom enclaves or worker housing strategies for a particular industry. Nolen used his Mariemont plan to demonstrate how a new town could be used to focus residential neighbourhoods for all classes around a town centre that was integrated within a regional metropolitan framework. Mariemont was offered as a solution to the problem of suburban alienation by providing decent hous...
An ω-category with all Duals is an ω-groupoid

We make a definition of ω-precategory which should underlie any definition of weak ω-category. We make a precise definition of pseudo-invertible cells in this setting. We show that in an ω-precategory with all weak duals, every cell is pseudo-invertible. We deduce that in any “sensible” theory of ω-categories, an ω-category with all weak duals is an ω-groupoid. We discuss various examples and open questions involving higher-dimensional tangles and cobordisms.
Personal and Family Stress in Individuals with Diabetes and Vision Loss.

The intrapersonal distress and the impact of diabetes and vision impairment on marital functioning were assessed. Significant degrees of intrapersonal distress were demonstrated by the Beck Depression Inventory, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Rand Mental Health Index. Family functioning as assessed by the Family Assessment Device was significantly compromised. Vision impairment was a major stressor in the spousal relationship. Of 18 subjects who had been involved in a committed relationship at the onset of vision impairment, 9 had separated. Separation occurred at a mean of 1.6 years after the vision impairment. Totally blind individuals were at greater risk for separation than those who were legally, but not totally, blind. Psychological intervention was a limited benefit. Studies are necessary to identify the appropriate timing for further interventions.
REVERSIBLE TRANSFORMATION BETWEEN METHYLENE AND METHYLIDYNE-HYDRIDE MOIETIES ON THE RU10C2 FRAMEWORK

Oxidative substitution of [Ru10C2(CO)22(NBD)]2- with ferrocenium ion and diazomethane forms a methylene compound, Ru10C2(CO)22(NBD)(μ-CH2), in which the methylene ligand symmetrically bridges two adjacent apical ruthenium centers in the edge-fused bioctahedral Ru10C2 framework. A methylidyne tautomer, Ru10C2(CO)22(NBD)(CH)(H), is formed reversibly at 80 °C.
A global method for solution of complex systems

Abstract This paper is intended as a tutorial paper for a general scientific audience to introduce to users a unique methodology for accurately and realistically solving dynamical systems which may be strongly nonlinear and involve stochastic processes in inputs, coefficients, or initial or boundary conditions and special cases such as linear, weakly nonlinear, deterministic, etc., as well. It has distinct advantages over perturbative or hierarchy methods and methods of numerical analysis and is applicable to algebraic equations (polynomial, transcendental, matrix), differential equations, systems of coupled (nonlinear and/or stochastic) differential equations, and (nonlinear and/ or stochastic) partial differential equations. Because the methods are applicable to a very wide class of problems in physics, economics, biology and medicine, engineering and technology, the presentation is intended to be accesible to all rather than for applied mathematicians only.
Independent living skills and hypothetical psychosis proneness

This study examines the relationship between independent living skills and perceptual aberration-magical ideation, a measure of hypothetical psychosis proneness. Interpersonal and community living skills were assessed with the Self-Assessment Guide (SAG), a self-report measure of interpersonal skills and relationships, leisure and financial support, as well as health, affect, and control of aggression. Problem-solving skills were assessed with an analogue task, the Means-Ends Problem Solving Procedure (MEPS). Hypothetically psychosis-prone respondents reported lower levels of skills on the SAG, particularly in the interpersonal area, but did not demonstrate problem-solving deficits on the MEPS. The results suggest a link between deficits in interpersonal independent living skills and a hypothetical predisposition to psychopathology. This indicates that skills deficits are unlikely to arise solely as secondary reactions to symptomatology, hospitalization, or otherwise disrupted community adjustment. Implications for community-based preventive programs are also discussed.
Binding and Reactivity of Thiophene-Type Ligands in Transition Metal Complexes and Clusters

Hydrodesulphurization (HDS) is the process whereby sulphur is removed from organosulphur compounds in petroleum distillates and other feedstocks by treatment with hydrogen gas (up to 20 MPa pressure) at temperatures of 300–450°C. The reaction conditions depend, in part, on the sulphur contents of the feedstocks which typically range from 0.2 to 4%. The most commonly-used catalyst is a combination of cobalt and molybdenum supported on Al2O3. The Co and Mo exist primarily as Co9S8 and MoS2 [1, 2]. Under HDS conditions, removal of nitrogen and oxygen from their organic compounds in petroleum also occurs. These processes are known as hydrodenitrogenation (HDN) and hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) [3] and are represented, along with HDS, by Equations 1–3.
A digestive phospholipase A2 in midguts of tobacco hornworms, Manduca sexta L.

Abstract We hypothesized that phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is a common feature of insect digestive physiology. PLA2 hydrolyzes polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) associated with the sn-2 position of phospholipids (PLs). We describe here a PLA2 from midgut contents of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta. Our results indicate that the enzyme is sensitive to pH (inactivated at low pH), protein concentration (up to 1.6 μg/μl), substrate concentration (up to 1.4 nmoles/reaction), temperature (up to 30°C), and incubation time. We also found that PLA2 activity is higher in fed than in starved larvae, and enzyme activity is associated with the midgut contents, rather than the midgut epithelium of fed larvae. All known secretory PLA2s, except for a PLA2 in venom of the marine snail, Conus magus, require high calcium concentrations for catalysis, but the Manduca PLA2 appears to be calcium-independent, and it exhibits increased PLA2 activity in the presence of a calcium-chelator, EGTA. In addition, the partially purified Manduca PLA2 is not inhibited by the phospholipid analog, oleyloxyethylphosphorylcholine. These findings suggest that the Manduca digestive PLA2 may represent another novel form of PLA2.
Anti-CD45RB treatment induces t cell regulation by increasing CD4+CD25+CD45RB low cells

Introduction: We have shown that 3 doses of anti-CD45RB mAb induce longterm graft survival and same donor strain tolerance in ∼50% of C57BL/6 recipients of Balb/c islets. Anti-CD45RB treatment promotes tolerance by inducing a shift in CD45 isoform expression from CD45RB High to CD45RB Low and up-regulating CTLA-4 expression. Here, we examine whether anti-CD45RB treatment induces expression of regulatory cells. Methods: Lymphocytes were isolated from Balb/c mice (n = 3) and phenotyped by immunostaining and flow cytometry analysis following anti-CD45RB mAb treatment (3 doses: 100 μg/iv/dose). Results: Flow cytometry analysis showed a ∼55% increase of CD25 expression on CD4+ lymphocytes after treatment with 3 doses of anti-CD45RB. In addition, the CD25+CD45RB Low CD4+ subset showed a threefold increase after anti-CD45RB treatment. Control untreated allogenic lymphocytes from C57BL/6 mice (n = 2) were then used as stimulator cells in mixed lymphocyte reactions (MLR) to demonstrate whether anti-CD45RB treated lymphocytes (unseparated population) could regulate proliferation. Results show that anti-CD45RB treated T cells do not proliferate when compared to untreated lymphocytes. In addition, when anti-CD45RB treated lymphocytes were cocultured with increased amounts of untreated T cells (1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 ratios), proliferation was increased in a dose-dependent manner (∼50, ∼75, and ∼90%, respectively) when compared to untreated cells. Conclusions: A short course of treatment with anti-CD45RB mAb induces a significant increase (300%) of CD25+CD45RB Low CD4+ cells. This T cell subset has been shown to have regulatory properties in both mice and humans. In addition, anti-CD45RB treated lymphocytes inhibit thymidine incorporation and proliferation of allogeneic lymphocytes. Finally, when cocultured with untreated T cells, anti-CD45RB treated lymphocytes regulate the proliferation of allogeneic responder lymphocytes in a dose-dependent manner.
A Predation Deterrent in Larvae of the Bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana

Abstract Larvae of the striped chorus frog (Pseudacris triseriata), plains leopard frog (Rana blairi), northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens), and spadefoot toad (Scaphiopus bombifrons), were readily accepted as food by three fish predators (largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides; green sunfish, Lepomis cyanellus; and the black bullhead, Ictalurus melas). In contrast, tadpoles of the bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana), were accepted only rarely by bass and sunfish and not at all by bullheads. Preference experiments demonstrate that bass prefer Rana blairi larvae to Rana catesbeiana larvae, and if provided with sufficient numbers of Rana blairi larvae, almost totally refuse bullfrog tadpoles. The data suggest existence of an inverse relationship between the permanency of larval frog habitat and larval frog palatability.
Arginine and glutamine supplementation to culture media improves the performance of various channel catfish immune cells

Specific components of both the innate and adaptive immune systems of channel catfish were evaluated after supplementation of culture media with arginine (ARG) and/or glutamine (GLN). Primary cell cultures of head-kidney macrophages (MO) were used for phagocytic and bactericidal assays against Edwardsiella ictaluri. Additionally, proliferation assays were conducted with naive peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) exposed to non-specific mitogens. To indirectly assess amino acid utilization of both MO and PBL, amino acid levels, with emphasis on ARG and GLN, were evaluated in the basal medium before and after activation or mitogenic exposure. After bactericidal and proliferation assays, the sum of the media free amino acid pool significantly (P < 0.05) decreased 23% and 45%, respectively. Glutamine levels in medium decreased by 38% and ARG by 18% during the bactericidal assay. Also, decreases of 52 and 46% from initial values were found after the proliferation assay for GLN and ARG, respectively. Macrophage phagocytosis and killing ability was significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced by ARG supplementation to culture media regardless of GLN supplementation. Proliferation of naive T- and B-lymphocytes upon mitogenic exposure was significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced by supplementing ARG and GLN to the media, but limited synergistic effects were observed. These results suggest that in vitro, ARG and GLN are important substrates and immunomodulators of both innate and adaptive responses in fish leukocytes, and further highlights the potential use of ARG and GLN as immunonutrients in aquafeeds.
Value of antiarrhythmic drug therapy and the implantable cardioverter defibrillator in prolonging survival in patients with severe congestive failure

Congestive heart failure is a very common syndrome with an annual incidence of 400000 cases per year. It is also associated with a high mortality that approaches 50% at five years, with roughly one-third of these deaths being caused by cardiac arrhythmias. A variety of approaches have been taken in the treatment of congestive failure. Randomized trials have shown that the use of ACE inhibitors improves survival in congestive failure, with some trials also showing a reduction in sudden cardiac death. Other randomized trials have studied the role of amiodarone in the treatment of congestive failure. These trials, in general, have shown that total mortality is not effected by amiodarone but the sudden death risk is reduced. The role of beta blockers has recently gained attention in the Carvedolol trial which showed significant improvement with the use of a nonselective beta blocker. Finally, a variety of studies involving the use of the implantable cardioverter defibrillator are underway which will determine if the ICD can reduce the arrhythmic risk posed by the presence of congestive failure. Most experts think that the combined use of ACE inhibitors, beta blockers and likely the ICD as well will see a significant reduction in the mortality rate of patients with established congestive failure.
Peroxisomes in infantile phytanic acid storage disease: a cytochemical study of skin fibroblasts.

Cultured skin fibroblasts from six patients demonstrating clinical signs and biochemical characteristics of infantile phytanic acid storage disease (IPSD) were examined by electron microscopy, using cytochemical procedures for the demonstration of peroxisomal catalase activity. In four of the six fibroblast cell lines peroxisomes strongly reactive for catalase were present in numbers similar to those found in normal fibroblasts. Liver biopsy tissue from one of these patients showed no typical hepatic peroxisomes, but did show small, marginally reactive bodies. In two other IPSD fibroblast cell lines peroxisomes with appreciable cytochemical reactivity were rare or absent. It seems, therefore, that infantile phytanic acid storage disease is heterogeneous with respect to the presence of cytochemically recognizable peroxisomes, at least in the cases studied here. Furthermore, peroxisomes may be markedly affected in one cell type — liver — and yet not affected in another — skin fibroblasts — within a single individual.
Characteristics of North African Easterly Waves During the Summers of 1968 and 1969

Abstract This study uses both spectral and compositing analyses to determine the structure of North African easterly waves during the summers of 1968 and 1969. The average period and wavelength computed by the power-spectrum method are 4.5 days and 3800 km and for the compositing analysis 3.8 days and 3100 km. Although the period and wavelength of individual waves vary considerably, the spectral results are in qualitative agreement with the compositing results except in extreme northern Africa where eastward-moving disturbances of the same period affect the spectral computations. The maximum surface amplitudes of u, v, p and Td associated with the waves occur about 20N near the mean location of the east-west oriented region of minimum surface pressure. East of the Greenwich meridian the amplitude decreases and the wave motion is barely detectable with surface data near 25E. The compositing results show that the waves influence latitudes between 5 and 3ON and that wave features tilt from southwest to north...
Segment 8 of the influenza virus genome is unique in coding for two polypeptides.

In previous studies we showed that a ninth polypeptide with a molecular weight of approximately 11,000 (NS2) found in influenza virus-infected cells was unique, that it could be synthesized in vitro, and that its expression in vivo required early protein synthesis. On the basis of these results we suggested that one of the eight genome RNA segments of influenza virus codes for two polypeptides [Lamb, R.A., Etkind, P.R. & Choppin, P.W. (1978) Virology 91, 60-78]. We describe here differences in the electrophoretic mobility of the NS2 polypeptides of different strains of influenza A virus. These results provided further evidence that NS2 is virus coded and also made possible genetic studies using recombinants between two virus strains (HK and PR8) whose NS2 polypeptides differ. These studies showed that the gene for NS2 reassorts with that of the nonstructural polypeptide NS1, which is coded by genome segment 8. A mRNA for NS2 has been separated from that of NS1 and the other viral polypeptides by centrifugation and has been translated in vitro. Hybridization of genome segment 8 to the total mRNAs from infected cells specifically prevented the synthesis of NS2 and NS1. These results indicate that influenza virus genome segment 8 is transcribed into two separate mRNAs that code for two polypeptides, NS1 and NS2. Possible mechanisms for the transcription of the two mRNAs from either contiguous or overlapping genes are discussed.
Spurious dianeutral mixing and the role of momentum closure

Abstract This paper examines spurious dianeutral transport within a suite of ocean models (GOLD, MIT gcm , MOM, and ROMS). We quantify such transport through a global diagnostic that computes the reference potential energy, whose evolution arises solely through transport between density classes. Previous studies have focused on the importance of accurate tracer advection schemes in reducing the spurious transport and closure. The present study highlights complementary issues associated with momentum transport. Spurious dianeutral transport is shown to be directly proportional to the lateral grid Reynolds number (Re Δ ), with such transport significantly reduced when Re Δ Simulations with the isopycnal model GOLD provide a benchmark for the smallest level of spurious dianeutral transport realizable in our model suite. For idealized simulations with a linear equation of state, GOLD exhibits identically zero spurious dianeutral mixing, and thus maintains a constant reference potential energy when all physical mixing processes are omitted. Amongst the non-isopycnal models tested in idealized simulations, ROMS generally produces smaller spurious dianeutral mixing than MIT gcm or MOM, since ROMS makes use of a higher order upwind-biased scheme for momentum transport that enforces a small Re Δ . In contrast, MIT gcm and MOM both employ unbiased (centered) discretizations of momentum transport, and therefore rely on lateral friction operators to control the grid Reynolds number. We find that a lateral shear-dependent Smagorinsky viscosity provides an effective means to locally reduce Re Δ , and thus to reduce spurious dianeutral transport in MIT gcm and MOM. In addition to four idealized simulations, we quantify spurious dianeutral transport in realistic global ocean climate simulations using GOLD and MOM with a realistic equation of state for seawater, both with and without mesoscale eddies in the resolved flow field. The GOLD simulations have detectable levels of spurious cabbeling from along isopycnal advective truncation errors. Significantly larger spurious dianeutral transport arises in a non-eddying MOM simulation. In an eddying MOM simulation, spurious dianeutral transport is larger still but is reduced by increasing momentum friction.
Effect of mineral composition on bacterial attachment to submerged rock surfaces

A direct microscopic count technique employing fluorescein isothiocyanate stain was used to compare microbial colonization on the exposed surfaces of rocks and minerals suspended in several ponds for various time intervals. Hematitic sandstone was never colonized at a rate greater than limestone, but quartz was always colonized more rapidly than calcite. The use of single-crystal minerals (quartz and calcite) in a nested factor experiment showed that the effect of the minerals on colonization was statistically significant, but that differences among the immersion sites were also significant. Sandstone samples placed in a pond outflow accumulated microbial colonizers more rapidly than those placed in the still waters of the same pond. The results indicate that the composition of the mineral substrate, in concert with the immersion environment, controls the formation of primary slime layers in aquatic systems.