cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ion fluence dependence of the total sputtering yield and differential angular sputtering yield of bismuth due to 50 keV argon ion irradiation

Abstract The dependences of the total sputtering yield of Bi and the differential angular distribution of these sputtered Bi atoms on the fluence of 50 keV Ar + ions at normal incidence have been experimentally measured. Polycrystalline Bi targets were used for these purposes. The collector technique and accurate current integration methods were adopted for the determination of angular distributions of sputtered Bi atoms. The ion fluence was varied from 1.9 × 10 19 to 3.1 × 10 20 ions/cm 2 . The sputtered atoms were collected on high purity aluminum foils under ultra-high vacuum (∼5 × 10 −9 Torr). The collector foils were subsequently analyzed using heavy ion Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy. The shape of the angular distribution of sputtered atoms was found not to change significantly with the fluence, but the sputtering yield increased significantly from 2.2 ± 0.2 to 9.6 ± 0.6 atoms/ion over the fluence range studied.
Magnetic Field of a Symmetrical Bundle of Parallel Wires Carrying Equal Currents

The radial and circumferential components of the magnetic field outside and inside a bundle of parallel current filaments equally spaced on an infinitely long cylinder are derived in convergent series form. The assumption usually made that the mean circumferential component is a sufficiently good approximation to the actual field at radii of interest is justified by calculation at 12 mm radius from the axis of a bundle containing 36 wires, 6 at 3 mm radius, 12 at 6 mm, 18 at 9 mm. The maximum deviation of the circumferential field from its mean value is here found to be less than one-half percent. A quickly applied primary winding of 36 turns for ring specimens is described. It consists of a central bundle, flat end connecting blocks and external cage. The region of good circular field lies between radii of 12 mm and 60 mm, and is 70 cm in axial length.
The Effect of Imprecisions in Thermal Sensor Location and Boundary Conditions on Optimal Sensor Location and Experimental Accuracy

Optimal sensor locations and the information content obtained when estimating thermal parameters using the inverse method are significantly affected by uncertainties in sensor position and in the system parameters. This paper describes the effects of these uncertainties. It is shown that the effect of sensor location uncertainties can be reduced by placing temperature sensors in locations ofminimum heat flux. In transient experiments, the uncertainties in the boundary conditions have the greatest effect at points of high heat flux and cause the optimal sensor locations to move from the boundary with the highest convective heat transfer coefficient to the boundary with the lowest in an abrupt manner
Propagator, sewing rules, and vacuum amplitude for the Polyakov point particle with ghosts

We apply techniques developed for strings to the case of the spinless point particle. The Polyakov path integral with ghosts is used to obtain the propagator and one-loop vacuum amplitude. The propagator is shown to correspond to the Green's function for the BRST field theory in Siegel gauge. The reparametrization invariance of the Polyakov path integral is shown to lead automatically to the correct “trace log” result for the one-loop diagram, despite the fact that “naive sewing” of the ends of a propagator would give an incorrect answer. This type of failure of “naive sewing” is identical to that found in the string case. The present treatment provides, in the simplified context of the point particle, a pedagogical introduction to Polyakov path integral methods with and without ghosts.
Business ethics in fiction

Interest in teaching business ethics classes on college campuses has increased dramatically during the past decade. In the United States, virtually all graduate and undergraduate business programs teach business ethics in some form. While current pedagogy relies primarily on factual recounting of actual workplace incidents and actual and hypothetical case studies, calls for multidisciplinary approaches to teaching business ethics have not yet produced significant pedagogical change. We propose the use of fiction (novels, dramas, and short stories) to enrich current teaching materials. This paper illustrates the tremendous power of stories which deal with ethical dilemmas in business to illuminate moral issues in ways that lead to a clearer understanding of ethical theory. The fiction cited in this paper is all drawn from American literature. It seems likely that similar sources could be found in the literature of other countries.
HAPTEN CARRIER RELATIONSHIPS IN THE DNP-PLL·FOREIGN ALBUMIN COMPLEX SYSTEM: INDUCTION OF TOLERANCE AND STIMULATION OF CELLS IN VITRO

Genetic nonresponder guinea pigs made tolerant to BSA and then immunized with DNP-PLL·BSA failed to make anti-DNP-PLL antibodies. Thus, tolerance to a carrier protein renders animals unresponsive to the hapten which it bears. The addition in vitro of DNP-PLL or DNP-GL to lymph node cell cultures derived from genetic responder animals immunized with these materials led to a significant stimulation of 3H-thymidine incorporation into DNA. However, the addition of DNP-PLL or DNP-GL to lymph node cell cultures from nonresponder animals immunized with these materials failed to produce any stimulation of DNA synthesis. Furthermore, the addition of DNP-PLL to lymph node cell cultures from nonresponder animals immunized with DNP-PLL·BSA or DNP-PLL·OVA also failed to stimulate cell proliferation in spite of the fact that the lymph node cells of these animals were producing anti-DNP-PLL antibodies. The above facts suggest that the function of the PLL gene product is to act at an early crucial step in the immune mechanism to form an antigen-inducer complex. The specificity of this early step may be of a simple order and different than that of the antibody which is later produced in the immune response.
atmospheric heating by solar EUV radiation

A diurnal model of the mid-latitude ionospheric R region is used to calculate the diurnal variation of the neutral gas heating rates and neutral gas heating efficiency for conditions similar to those over Millstone Hill on March 23-24, 1970. The calculations show that the absorbed solar EUV (wavelength less than or equal to 1025 A) energy is almost equally split between photoelectrons and ion pair production. Photoelectrons heat the ambient electron gas by Coulomb collisions and by the quenching of certain excited ion species, whereas the ion gas is primarily heated by collisions with hot electrons and by chemical reactions. Heating processes above 300 km, between 170 and 300 km, and below 170 km are identified.
Existence of secondary solutions to a generalized taylor problem

In this paper the existence of secondary solutions to a generalization of the classical Taylor problem is considered. A viscous liquid is assumed to occupy the region interior to a right circular cylinder and exterior to a. surface formed by rotating a smooth, positive, periodic function about the axis of the cylinder. The cylinder is fixed while the inner surface rotates with a constant angular velocity. The existence of axisymmetric ceiiuiar solutions is estab¬lished by a generalization of the method of Lyapunov and Schmidt. By treating the branching equation as a function of three complex variables it is shown that a critical Reynolds number λ1 * exists and that for λ-λ1 * < 0 the problem has a unique solution while for λλ:1 * positive and small there are three solutions
The Effects of Advertising on Mutual Fund Flows: Results from a New Database

We examine 471,000 mutual fund company advertisements from 1997 to 2003 to study advertising's effect on fund inflows. We find advertising is generally ineffective in attracting inflows but was more effective during the bear market despite smaller advertising expenditures during this time. The top 10 advertisers in our sample were most successful in capturing inflows. These companies generated inflows with mutual fund ads; other companies succeeded when advertising their other products and their brand image. Within a fund family, advertising affects the flagship fund differently than the other funds. Sample firms appeared unable to choose correctly between print and TV ads.
Computers and Teaching: Evolution of a Cyberclass.

ing, utilization of super-fast telephony, means for compressing audio and video signals to deliver classes to students who may never come on campus to take courses, and the use of computers and the Internet for two-way communication between professors and students, there are some who suggest that technology will eventually lead to the enrichment, if not the replacement, of the traditional student-professor relationship. Further, there have been suggestions that the "Carnegie Unit" (i.e., fifty-five minutes of in-class instruction per credit hour) may soon give way to "computer-assisted distance learning" (Reid 1997). This has led some members of the professorate to become alarmed that tech-
A low velocity belt beneath northern and eastern Tibetan Plateau from Pn tomography

[1] New Pn tomography on Tibetan Plateau (TP) and neighboring region is conducted with data assembled from various sources. The improved Pn tomographic image delineates several distinct geophysical regimes that are approximately separated by geological boundaries at surface. Dense distribution of the stations in the eastern half of the plateau allows us to infer a 3D view of crustal thickness variation of the region. The most striking feature is the bended low velocity belt (LVB), which extends from west to east beneath Qiangtang block and Songpan Ganzi fold belt (SGFB) in northern TP and then turns consistently southward with SGFB beneath eastern TP and further south to Indo-China. The consistency between geological boundaries on surface and sharp velocity contrast boundaries in uppermost mantle may suggest strong deformation coupling between crust and, at least uppermost mantle, if not whole lithosphere. A north-south striking LVB is also observed cutting through the southern TP, coinciding with the Yadong-Gulu rift at surface. Our tomographic results are generally consistent with dynamic models that involve with underthrusting in the southern TP, shortening in the northern TP, and extrusion to the east and the southeast. Furthermore, our results suggest significant east-west variations in the structure and dynamics.
Noninvasive evaluation of cardiac dysfunction by echocardiography in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Abstract Background: There has not been a noninvasive in vivo longitudinal evaluation of cardiac function in diabetic rats. The objective of this study is to examine the time course of development of cardiac dysfunction in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Methods and Results: Cardiac function was evaluated by M-mode and Doppler echocardiography in anesthetized Wistar rats at 2, 4, 5, 6, and 8 weeks after injection with 65 mg of STZ/kg and in age-matched control rats before and after the administration of isoproterenol. Body weight (BW) was significantly less and blood glucose level significantly greater in diabetic rats compared with controls at 2 weeks and remained at these levels at all time points. The calculated left ventricular (LV) mass appeared slightly decreased in diabetic rats. However, LV mass-BW ratios were similar in controls and diabetic rats at 2, 4, and 5 weeks, but were significantly greater in diabetic rats at 6 and 8 weeks. Basal heart rate (HR) was significantly lower in diabetic rats at all time points studied. Basal LV systolic and diastolic dimensions, fractional shortening (FS), velocity of circumferential shortening (Vcf), peak emptying rate (PER), peak filling rate (PFR), and aortic peak velocity (APV) were not significantly different between controls and diabetic rats at 2 and 4 weeks. PER and PFR were significantly less in 5-week diabetic rats. However, Vcf, PER, and PFR were significantly less and FS and APV were similar at 6 and 8 weeks. Administration of isoproterenol increased HR, Vcf, FS, PFR, and PER in controls at all time points, but the increases in diabetic rats at 5, 6, and 8 weeks were less compared with those in controls. The increase in APV was significantly less in diabetic rats at all time points studied. Conclusion: STZ-induced diabetic rats showed bradycardia before contractile dysfunction. Overt and covert contractile dysfunction unmasked by isoproterenol begins at 5 weeks of diabetes. The overt LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction are fully manifested after 6 weeks of diabetes.
Celontin ‐ a New Anticonvulsant

SUMMARY 1. Fifty-three epileptic patients whose seizures were resistant to numerous anticonvulsant drugs were treated with Celontin. In all cases Celontin was given in conjunction with one or more standard anticonvulsant drugs. Only one patient was withdrawn from Celontin before it could be evaluated. This patient developed a severe rash. 2. Celontin appeared to be most effective in petit mal, psychomotor and focal motor attacks. It is least effective in grand mal. 3. Thirty of the 53 patients developed some side effects. The majority of these were mild. Four patients developed generalized rash and three of these four ultimately had to discontinue using Celontin. One patient had severe anorexia which limited the use of Celontin. 4. Routine blood counts and urinalyses remained normal in all patients.
EFFECTS OF CHEMICAL IMPURITIES ON GAS PERMEATION AND DIFFUSION IN POLYMERIC MEMBRANES

In recent years, polymeric membranes have been increasingly used in key unit operations such as gas separations. In theory, the performance of a polymeric membrane module depends solely on the chemical structure of the polymer and the feed gas composition. However, impurities in the feed stream (such as vapors from compressor oils) have been found to affect the productivity of the membrane module even at parts per million (ppm) levels. To understand the fundamental effects of such trace chemicals, commercial polymers were studied for their solubility and permeability characteristics in the presence and absence of such impurities. Two types of compressor oils were used in doping the polymers at three concentration levels. Permeabilities of N2, O2, CH4, and CO2 were measured in dense homogeneous films at 35°C. Selectivities of O2/N2 and CO2/CH4 were also calculated in the presence and absence of oil. The permeability data were used in conjunction with the sorption results as reported in previous papers to c...
Androgen inhibition of mammary gland differentiation in vitro.

Various androgens inhibit the rate of synthesis of DNA and casein by midpregnancy mouse mammary explants cultured on chemically defined medium. At the concentrations studied, androgens do not inhibit the “base line” rate of casein synthesis, but do prevent the augmentation in rate of casein synthesis occurring in vitro in the presence of insulin, hydrocortisone and prolactin. The reduced rate of casein synthesis in the presence of androgens represents an inhibition of mammary differentiation, and correlates well with the arrested histological development observed. DNA synthesis by mammary epithelial cells is stimulated by insulin;androgens inhibit DNA synthesis independently of the presence of other hormones by reducing the number of epithelial cells incorporating tritiated thymidine into DNA. Since grain counts above labeled cells are not reduced, androgens prevent the initiation of DNA formation. In the presence of varying concentrations of androgens the rate of hormone-dependent casein synthesis is dir...
A simplified approach to kinetic theory of dense fluids

Abstract Time correlation functions may be related to the fluctuating force correlation function in the sub-ensemble with fixed initial particle velocity. The latter may be evaluated by following the trajectories of particle pairs in the fluid.
How localized consumption stabilizes predator-prey systems with finite frequency of mixing

Abstract: Predator‐prey theory began with aspatial models that assumed organisms interacted as if they were “well‐mixed” particles that obey the laws of mass action, but it has become clear that both the spatial and individual nature of many organisms can change how the dynamics of such systems function. Here I examine how localized consumption of prey by predators changes the dynamics of predator‐prey systems; I use an individual‐based simulation of the Rosenzweig‐MacArthur model in implicit space and its mean‐field approximation. In combination with limited movement, localized consumption makes the predator‐prey dynamics more stable than the comparable “well‐mixed” Rosenzweig‐MacArthur model. Using a spatial correlation, one can directly compare a simplified version of the individual‐based model with the Rosenzweig‐MacArthur model. While this comparison allows the changes in the dynamics to be captured by the “well‐mixed” Rosenzweig‐MacArthur model, the parameters of the functional response are now depe...
Ka-Band Telemetry Operations Concept: A Statistical Approach

Future NASA missions such as the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, Kepler, James Webb Space Telescope, and Space Interferometry Mission will use Ka-band frequencies (26.5- and 32-GHz bands) for their primary science downlink instead of X-band frequencies (8.42-GHz band) due to scarcity of spectrum at X-band. At Ka-band frequencies, adverse weather events degrade the telemetry link performance to a greater degree than they do at X-band. The uncertainty about the weather losses at Ka-band is much greater than the uncertainty about all other losses on the link combined. Therefore, the traditional link design approach used for X-band links has to be modified. In this paper, we propose a link design approach where the atmospheric noise temperature statistics along with the ground antenna characteristics are used to optimize the average data return on the link. We introduce the mathematical foundations of this approach and present optimal link design strategies for using Ka-band both at 26.5- and at 32-GHz bands for future NASA missions.
A case of primary unilateral adrenal Burkitt-like large cell lymphoma presenting as adrenal insufficiency.

Abstract Primary adrenal lymphoma is extraordinarily rare, in comparison with secondary adrenal involvement by non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Although higher-resolution imaging techniques have enhanced detection of adrenal masses, biopsy or excision is often needed for definitive diagnosis. Percutaneous computed tomography–guided fine needle aspiration has great diagnostic value in the workup of adrenal masses, but is limited by sampling error and artifacts. Primary adrenal lymphoma most commonly manifests with diffuse large B-cell morphology. Burkitt-like large cell lymphoma morphology has been previously reported only once, to our knowledge. We report an 80-year-old man presenting with unilateral primary adrenal lymphoma showing Burkitt-like morphology and adrenal insufficiency. Fine needle aspiration yielded a dispersed population of monomorphic, medium to large cells suggestive of lymphoma. Although dispersed cell populations cytologically favor lymphoma, metastatic poorly differentiated carcinoma and adrenal cortical carcinoma can manifest similarly. Integrated histological, immunohistochemical, and flow cytometric immunophenotyping would provide an accurate and definitive diagnosis. We review the literature and discuss important issues with regard to diagnosis.
The relationship of viral antigen to virus-induced defects in chick embryos. Newcastle disease virus.

Abstract Results indicate that the developmental defects observed in chick embryos following inoculation of Newcastle disease virus at 36, 48, and 60 hours' incubation are due to sloughing and necrosis of cells in specifically differentiating organs following replication of viral antigen in cells of such tissues. Although replication of viral antigen is not limited to these structures, minimal cell damage is observed in other structures within the time limits of the study. Using immunofluorescent staining techniques, the viral antigen is consistently observed first, at 6–8 hours postinoculation, in cells of the extraembryonic structures, i.e., ectoderm of somatopleure and amnion and endoderm of splanchnopleure. In tissues of the embryo, specific fluorescence begins to appear at 10–12 hours postinoculation; it is first concentrated in structures differentiating from the body ectoderm. The pattern of fluorescence conforms in general to structures previously observed to be susceptible to teratogenic effects or microscopic pathological changes. Structures consistently affected include lens, auditory epithelium, visceral arch ectoderm, olfactory epithelium, and caudal neural tube. The optic cups and the brain, which is closed off and separated from the body ectoderm at the time of inoculation, show no evidence of infection. As infection progresses the specific fluorescence is observed in more of the general body ectoderm and invasion is also observed in the underlying mesoderm, where it is located chiefly in visceral arches, somites, epimyocardium of the heart, and endothelium of capillaries that lie in affected areas of the mesoderm.
African microentrepreneurship: The reality of everyday challenges

Abstract This research explores the everyday challenges to microentrepreneurship in Ghana, West Africa. Everyday challenges are problems, including events, conditions, and people, that impair the ability to conduct daily business operations and are characterized by frequent occurrence, disruption, and idiosyncrasy. A qualitative study of arts and crafts microentrepreneurs (ACMs) was conducted and the findings from this study expose the relationship between everyday challenges and long-term barriers and how the approaches entrepreneurs use to ameliorate daily problems may hinder their ability to overcome long-term barriers. They also demonstrate the need for a broader theoretical framework for the study of microentrepreneurial problems—one that extends beyond current macro-level barriers to incorporate the micro-level, tactical difficulties of microentrepreneurship that are an essential component of the African entrepreneur's experience.
On ultimate boundedness control of uncertain systems in the absence of matching assumptions

This paper describes an approach to ultimate boundedness control under hypotheses less stringent than heretofore required. Instead of imposing the so-called matching conditions of previous authors, a certain "decomposition" of the dynamics is performed. The resulting "decomposed system" has two parts-a matched portion and a mismatched portion. A certain measure of mismatch M is defined and it is shown that effective control is possible as long as M does not exceed some critical mismatch threshold M*. It is seen that this threshold depends on the choice of feedback. Hence, it becomes possible to investigate the tradeoffs between the size of the mismatch threshold and the sizes of the feedback gains which achieve the desired ultimate boundedness of solutions.
Quadratic inequalities and coefficient estimates for schlicht functions

An extensive literature [6] concerning one-to-one, analytic functions on the unit disc has developed. The bounds on the coefficients of the power series expansions about the origin are of particular interest. This paper presents some new quadratic inequalities, an improved coefficient estimate, and alternate proofs for a few important theorems. Although the motivation and theorems of the paper are closely tied to previous work, the central results depend logically only on Theorem 1.1 and proofs presented here.
Cash Flow, Earnings, and Corporate Control

This paper examines the ability of cash flow and earnings based measures of return to assess the differences between target firms and their industries and to explain target firms' abnormal returns during the takeover period. In a sample of 63 completed takeovers over the period 1977 to 1989, takeover targets have mean cash flow to total assets and earnings to total assets below their industry average in each of the three years preceding the year of the takeover. If these ratios are interpreted as measures of managerial performance, the implication is that target firms were underperformers which may have been taken over for a better use of their asset potential. Target firm abnormal returns observed during the takeover period are significantly related to both the difference between target firm and average industry earnings to total assets and to the difference in cash flow to total assets. Abnormal returns are negatively related to the difference in earnings to total assets, suggesting that target firm assets are indeed underutilized. The difference between target firm and target industry cash flow to total assets is positively related to target firm abnormal returns, suggesting that acquiring firms value the near term cash flow of targets.
Preschool Latino Immigrant Children: Using the Home Language as a Resource for Literacy Learning.

This article explores the language and literacy practices of Latino immigrant children in preschool. In spite of the monolingual framework and the readiness emphasis of current educational language policies, children draw on their home language as a resource to literacy learning. The author argues that children's use of their home language is a source of support for English development and learning. The article sheds light on the benefits of supporting the home language, even when English is the target language in the classroom and bilingual education is not an option. Literacy instruction organized around social interaction, guided dialogue, and direct instruction that supports children in making use of their full linguistic resources has the potential to connect schooled literacy practices to children's life experiences and interests, and broaden their literacy practices and developing academic strengths.
Alarm call responsivity of mallard ducklings: multiple pathways in behavioural development

Abstract Previous experiments have demonstrated that mallard ducklings, Anas platyrhynchos, freeze upon initial exposure to the maternal alarm call and that the development of this behaviour depends on perinatal auditory experience, since embryonically devocalized, socially isolated ducklings exhibit significantly reduced levels of freezing. Moreover, exposing devocalized, isolated ducklings to recordings of duckling sounds reinstates the freezing response. In the present study, the authors' prior conclusion that auditory experience is necessary for the development of freezing was challenged by socially rearing and socially testing 20 groups of devocalized ducklings. These birds exhibited significantly greater levels of freezing (70%) than did 30 devocalized ducklings that had been reared in isolation and tested individually (20%). In fact, their high level of freezing was comparable to that reported on nests in the field (79%) and in laboratory experiments with vocal ducklings that had been reared and tested socially (80%). Thus, altering the developmental and behavioural (or testing) contexts of devocal ducklings reinstates a behaviour that wanes significantly without auditory experience of vocalizations in other contexts. Such auditory experience is sufficient in some rearing and testing contexts (non-social) to promote freezing, but is clearly not necessary in other contexts (social). This exemplifies the concept of multiple pathways in behavioural development, according to which different developmental trajectories lead to similar outcomes.
Moment Closure for Local Control Models of Calcium-Induced Calcium Release in Cardiac Myocytes☆

In prior work, we introduced a probability density approach to modeling local control of Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release in cardiac myocytes, where we derived coupled advection-reaction equations for the time-dependent bivariate probability density of subsarcolemmal subspace and junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) [Ca2+] conditioned on Ca2+ release unit (CaRU) state. When coupled to ordinary differential equations (ODEs) for the bulk myoplasmic and network SR [Ca2+], a realistic but minimal model of cardiac excitation-contraction coupling was produced that avoids the computationally demanding task of resolving spatial aspects of global Ca2+ signaling, while accurately representing heterogeneous local Ca2+ signals in a population of diadic subspaces and junctional SR depletion domains. Here we introduce a computationally efficient method for simulating such whole cell models when the dynamics of subspace [Ca2+] are much faster than those of junctional SR [Ca2+]. The method begins with the derivation of a system of ODEs describing the time-evolution of the moments of the univariate probability density functions for junctional SR [Ca2+] jointly distributed with CaRU state. This open system of ODEs is then closed using an algebraic relationship that expresses the third moment of junctional SR [Ca2+] in terms of the first and second moments. In simulated voltage-clamp protocols using 12-state CaRUs that respond to the dynamics of both subspace and junctional SR [Ca2+], this moment-closure approach to simulating local control of excitation-contraction coupling produces high-gain Ca2+ release that is graded with changes in membrane potential, a phenomenon not exhibited by common pool models. Benchmark simulations indicate that the moment-closure approach is nearly 10,000-times more computationally efficient than corresponding Monte Carlo simulations while leading to nearly identical results. We conclude by applying the moment-closure approach to study the restitution of Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release during simulated two-pulse voltage-clamp protocols.
History of the application of the generalized lewis acid-base theory to metals

The history of my experiences with intermetallics has been found useful by students seeking my advice on which directions in science they should be emphasizing. In response to their question, I point to a mobile in my office consisting of seven hands pointing in different directions. Science comes up with so many unexpected developments that one's education should have a broad enough base to allow one to branch out in any direction to take advantage of unexpected opportunities. My historical presentation will be a personal account that I hope will serve as a guide to students. There have been many unexpected abrupt changes in my research.
Prostaglandin E2 enhancement of interferon-gamma production by antigen-stimulated type 1 helper T cells.

Abstract Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a potent mediator generated in immune tissues by cyclooxygenation of arachidonic acid. PGE2 affects T cell functions through four homologous G protein-coupled receptors termed EP1R, EP2R, EP3R, and EP4R that differ in tissue distribution and signaling. Antigen-evoked secretion of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) by sperm whale myoglobin-specific Th1 cells of DBA/2 mouse I-Ed-restricted clones, that express EP3Rs and EP4Rs, was enhanced a maximum of 3-fold by 10−10 to 10−8 M PGE2 and 2.5-fold each for the EP1R/EP3R-directed agonist sulprostone (10−8 and 10−7 M) and for the EP4R/EP3R/EP2R agonist misoprostol (10−9 M). Neither PGE2 nor the synthetic analogs affected secretion of IFN-γ by PMA plus ionomycin-stimulated clones of Th1 cells. Antigen-evoked secretion of IFN-gamma by influenza hemagglutinin-specific mouse lymph node Th1 cells, that also express EP3Rs and EP4Rs, was increased a maximum of 12-fold by 10−9 to 10−8 M PGE2, 14-fold by 10−9 M sulprostone, and 10-fold by 10−9 M misoprostol. Production of IFN-γ by either type of Th1 cell was not affected significantly by 10−6 M PGE2 alone. The generation of IFN-gamma by antigen-stimulated Th1 cells thus is significantly enhanced by physiologically relevant concentrations of PGE2.
Analysis of RNA chain elongation and termination by Saccharomyces cerevisiae RNA polymerase III

Abstract When Saccharomyces cerevisiae RNA polymerase (Pol) III transcribes the S. cerevisiae SUP4 tRNATyr gene, it is obliged to navigate past a large, multi-subunit DNA-bound complex of proteins. We have analyzed individual steps of RNA chain elongation on this gene. Slow steps of transcriptional initiation were by-passed by forming 5'-end-labeled, arrested and precisely positioned transcription complexes. Synchronous resumption of chain elongation by these complexes allowed a single round of RNA synthesis and termination to be analyzed in detail. Results for synthesis at 20°C and 0°C, in the presence of 100 μM and 1 mM ribonucleoside triphosphates (NTPs) are presented. RNA chain elongation through assembled transcription complexes was uneven but relatively rapid: at 20°C with 1 mM NTPs, the fastest RNA chains elongated at an average rate of 29 nucleotides (nt)/second, and the median RNA chains elongated at 21 to 22 nt/second on average. These rates are comparable with a recent measurement of the average rate of chain elongation in vivo by Drosophila RNA polymerase II at 25°C. At 0°C, RNA chain elongation rates were, on average, approximately 30-fold slower. Quantitative analysis of the individual steps of RNA chain elongation showed that steps of adding U and A to U-terminated RNA chains tended to be relatively slow, and to be more strongly influenced by nucleotide concentration. Termination of transcription occurred in the sequence T7GT6 (in the non-template DNA strand) and was progressive. Transcripts with five, six and seven U residues were formed, and there was even slow readthrough of the T7 stretch, with GU3 adding rapidly, suggesting that incorporation of a single G into the RNA chain served to reset elongation rates substantially or entirely. Stripping transcription factor (TF) IIIC from transcription complexes did not substantially increase overall RNA chain growth rate, but did diminish pausing at a single site upstream of the boxB binding site of TFIIIC. The TFIIIC-generated delay at this single site was estimated to be only approximately 0·15 to 0·2 seconds at 20°C. Quantitative analysis of RNA chain elongation yielded kinetic parameters for the individual steps of nucleotide addition that were used in computer simulations of RNA chain growth. Elongation modeled as a simple sequence of pseudo-first-order reactions yielded computed RNA chain length distributions that remained relatively synchronous during elongation, while observed chain growth quickly became desynchronized. The discrepancy points to complexities of RNA chain elongation that are discussed. In particular, we explored the idea, that Pol III can switch repeatedly between rapidly stepping and slowly stepping states during the elongation of a single RNA molecule, by appropriate computer simulations.
Use of tube feeding to prevent aspiration pneumonia

In the US Medicare programme more than 75 000 percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes were placed during 1991, most of them in patients with head and neck cancer or neurogenic dysphagia due to dementia or stroke. For the neurogenic group, prevention of aspiration pneumonia is a common therapeutic goal. Yet tube feeding has not been shown to reduce the risk of aspiration or pneumonia. No randomised trials of the intervention have been done, and some data suggest ineffectiveness. Feeding tubes do not prevent aspiration of contaminated oral secretions or regurgitated gastric contents—both welldocumented causes of aspiration pneumonia. Although enteral feeding tubes are often placed to prevent aspiration pneumonia, they have long been cited as risk factors for aspiration pneumonia. 1 Here we review data on the incidence of aspiration pneumonia and mortality rates in patient receiving tube feeding, focusing on patients with neurogenic dysphagia. Methods
Design and characterization of peptides with amphiphilic beta-strand structures

To extend our studies on peptides and proteins with amphiphilic secondary structures, a series of peptides designed to form amphiphilic beta-strand structures was designed, synthesized, and characterized by circular dichroism and infrared spectroscopy. Amphiphilic beta-strand conformations may be likely to appear in a variety of surface-active proteins, including apolipoprotein B and fibronectin. In a beta-strand conformation, the synthetic peptides will possess a hydrophobic face composed of valine side chains and a hydrophilic face composed of alternating acidic (glutamic acid) and basic (ornithine or lysine) residues. The peptides studied had a variety of chain lengths (5, 9, and 13 residues), and had the amino groups either free or protected with the trifluoroacetyl group. While the peptides did not possess a high potential for beta-sheet formation based on the Chou Fasman parameters, they possessed significant beta-sheet content, with up to 90% beta-sheet calculated for the 13-residue protected peptide. The driving force for beta-sheet formation is the potential amphiphilicity of this conformation. The beta-strand conformation of the 13-residue deprotected peptide was stable in 50% trifluoroethanol, 6 M guanidine hydrochloride, and octanol. The peptides are strongly self-associating in water, which would reduce the unfavorable contacts of the hydrophobic residues with water. It is clear that small peptides can be designed to form stable beta-strand conformations.
Polyester cure monitoring by means of different techniques

The cure of a set of polyester resin samples having different styrene contents has been monitored by means of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rheometry, and ultrasonic measurements. FTIR and DSC experimental data were used to calculate the cure kinetics using a free-radical polymerization model (multiple steps) and also an empirical model that considers the curing to involve only a single step. The dependence of viscosity on the degree of curing has been investigated at different shear rates. Finally, correlations among the results from the different techniques have been established and discussed in terms of the curing mechanism.
Dual mini TightRope suspensionplasty for thumb basilar joint arthritis: a case series.

Purpose To evaluate the efficacy of the technique of dual Mini TightRope suspensionplasty for treatment of trapeziometacarpal joint arthritis. Methods We conducted a retrospective study investigating the use of a dual Mini TightRope suspensionplasty technique from 2010 to 2013 at a single institution. We identified 11 patients (12 thumbs). Grip and pinch strength, thumb range of motion, and complications were reviewed. The trapezial space ratio was measured from the preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up radiographs. All patients completed the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand survey, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation, and the Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire at the latest follow-up. Results Dual Mini TightRope suspensionplasty resulted in reduced pain levels, increased grip and pinch strength, and preserved range of motion. Radiographs demonstrated maintenance of trapezial space height at an average of 17 months (range, 10–26 mo). There were no cases of impingement or fracture of the first and second metacarpal bases. Conclusions Dual Mini TightRope suspensionplasty for the management of trapeziometacarpal joint arthritis yielded satisfactory results with improvement in strength and function. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
RETENTION OF OFFSPRING IN A WILD POPULATION OF UNGULATES

A thirty-three year study of mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus) in their natural habitat revealed an unexpected plasticity in their reproductive pattern that was correlated with herd size. Females in this study population retained their offspring as yearlings (biennial reproduction) for the first sixteen years of the study while the population was stable or declining, whereas they did not retain yearlings (annual reproduction) for the next ten years while the population was increasing. Females again retained their offspring during the last seven years of the study when the population was either stable or decreasing. Offspring who are considered as retained are those who are allowed to remain within a few meters of their mothers at all times, who share food resources with their mothers, and who are allowed to nurse. Yearlings who are not retained (their mothers reproduce annually) are forced to remain many meters distant from their mothers, are unable to share food, and are never allowed to nurse. Individual differences were evident in females with respect to whether they reproduced annually or biennially. In some cases females reproduced annually for several years and subsequently shifted to a biennial mode of reproduction. In other cases, however, known individuals maintained a biennial pattern when the majority of the females were reproducing annually. Surprisingly, the rate of survival of both young of the year and yearlings was not affected by the mother's mode of reproduction. The data presented here support the idea that members of this population commonly reproduced every other year rather than that they reproduced every year, but often lost their offspring.
Hydroxycinnamic acids and their glucose esters in hybrids of Lilium species and their relation to germination

Abstract Ferulic, sinapic, and p -coumaric acids as well as their glucose esters were isolated from seeds and pericarps of the inter-specific hybrid Lilium speciosum Thumb. “Album” by Lilium auratum Lindl. The abnormal physiology of these seeds was ascribed to the relatively high concentration of free ferulic acid in these tissues and a possible limiting of the mechanism for detoxification by esterification.
Treatment efficacy of laser photothermal therapy using gold nanorods: Tumor shrinkage study

Gold nanorods can be tuned to a specific laser wavelength and serve as strong laser energy absorbers. Due to the powerful optical absorption, the laser energy is concentrated in an area congregating by nanorods, and then the energy absorbed can be transferred to the surrounding tumor tissue by heat conduction.1–4 Previous studies have shown a wide range of heating parameters with or without temperature measurements. Our previous experiment4 has demonstrated that using only 0.1 cc gold nanorod solution can lead to tumor temperature higher than 50°C when the laser irradiance is only 2 W/cm2. Based on the measured temperature elevation and heating duration, thermal damage to the tumor is highly likely. However, some researchers raised the question whether temperature sensors used in those experimental studies are truly reflecting the temperatures in the tumors. The objective of this study is to measure quantitatively tumor shrinkage after laser irradiation to evaluate efficacy of laser photothermal therapy.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
DDIG-in: detecting disease-causing genetic variations due to frameshifting indels and nonsense mutations employing sequence and structural properties at nucleotide and protein levels

Motivation: Frameshifting (FS) indels and nonsense (NS) variants disrupt the protein-coding sequence downstream of the mutation site by changing the reading frame or introducing a premature termination codon, respectively. Despite such drastic changes to the protein sequence, FS indels and NS variants have been discovered in healthy individuals. How to discriminate disease-causing from neutral FS indels and NS variants is an understudied problem. Results: We have built a machine learning method called DDIG-in (FS) based on real human genetic variations from the Human Gene Mutation Database (inherited disease-causing) and the 1000 Genomes Project (GP) (putatively neutral). The method incorporates both sequence and predicted structural features and yields a robust performance by 10-fold cross-validation and independent tests on both FS indels and NS variants. We showed that human-derived NS variants and FS indels derived from animal orthologs can be effectively employed for independent testing of our method trained on human-derived FS indels. DDIG-in (FS) achieves a Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of 0.59, a sensitivity of 86%, and a specificity of 72% for FS indels. Application of DDIG-in (FS) to NS variants yields essentially the same performance (MCC of 0.43) as a method that was specifically trained for NS variants. DDIG-in (FS) was shown to make a significant improvement over existing techniques. Availability and implementation: The DDIG-in web-server for predicting NS variants, FS indels, and non-frameshifting (NFS) indels is available at http://sparks-lab.org/ddig.
Discriminant analyses of field sales force adoption of wireless technologies

Although mobile computing offers the field salesperson distinct dvantages, adoption lags. This study examined differences in sales organisations. We found distinctive differences between non-adopters, adopters and innovators. Adopters tend to be more customer-driven relying on smaller well supported sales forces. Field sales forces yet to adopt are less likely to value customer-driven strategies. IT vendors can target new markets by identifying these strategic differences. Management of firms that have not yet adopted and are not sufficiently customer-driven may be exposing themselves to competitive vulnerabilities.
Adversity and Theory: The Broad Picture

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Alloplastic bone cements in otologic surgery: Long-term follow-up and lessons learned

Objective Otolaryngologists are often confronted with structural defects in the tegmen, scutum, or external auditory canal (EAC). Carbonated calcium phosphate (CCP) bone cements offer an alternative way of managing these defects. Study design and setting Retrospective review in an academic otology practice. The technical feasibility of these techniques described as well as the wound healing and structural integrity results. Results CCP bone cement was used to reconstruct defects of the tegmen or EAC in 22 patients. The material was used to repair the EAC in 19 of these patients, including complete EAC reconstruction in 4 patients, and tegmen defects only in 3 cases. Conclusion The surgical technique is not technically difficult and the alloplastic material is hard within minutes of application. Twenty patients have been followed for over 1 year with an average follow-up period of 3.8 years. Failure, defined as infection or explantation, occurred in 4 patients followed over 3 years. There was a difference in outcomes for pediatric cases. EBM rating: C-4
Children who have difficulty in school: a primary pediatrician's approach.

"Doctor, I just had a conference with my son9s teacher because my son seems to be doing poorly this year." Thus begins an increasingly common phone call to the pediatrician. Parents usually rely on their pediatrician, as a trusted professional of several years9 duration, for advice and assistance when informed of their child9s academic shortcomings. Although the first inclination may be to consider the problem as educational rather than medical, the pediatrician has an important role to play in caring for his or her patient by guiding the parents through the steps necessary to remediate the situation. Parents often are confused or intimidated by educators and turn to their pediatrician for strength and guidance in dealing with the educational "system." With some effort, most pediatricians can acquire the skills necessary to intervene successfully. In fact, they already possess many of those skills: a knowledge of child development, good rapport with the family, concern for the child9s total well-being, and professional stature in the community. By taking the time to become familiar with the school programs in the area, to gain a passing knowledge of psychoeducational testing (also see article on page 338), and to determine appropriate referral sources for further assistance, the pediatrician can be the child9s advocate in such situations.