cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
VIP and Growth Factors in the Infected Cornea

An opportunistic, gram-negative pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most virulent organisms associated with microbial keratitis and is often associated with contact lens usage.1 Both bacterial (e.g., lipopolysaccharide) and host factors released from infiltrating cells during infection are thought to contribute to a rapidly progressing liquefactive stromal necrosis.2–5 Experimental murine models of the disease have been established: Th1 responder mouse strains (e.g., C57BL/6, B6) are susceptible (cornea perforates), whereas Th2 responder strains (e.g., BALB/c) are resistant (cornea heals).6 In previous studies using these murine models, we provided evidence that an anti-inflammatory neuropeptide, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) given exogenously, promotes resistance against P. aeruginosa corneal infection by regulation of cytokine production and subsequent alteration of the host inflammatory cell response.7 Neuropeptides, such as VIP are small protein-like molecules used by neurons to bidirectionally communicate with the cells of the immune system.8 In the eye, VIP can be detected in corneal nerves and the aqueous humor in both mice and humans.9 Others also have shown previously that VIP reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production, limits cell-mediated immunity, and inhibits macrophage and T cell proliferation9; and by downregulation of IL-6 and TNF-α, the neuropeptide showed a protective effect in models of endotoxemia.10 Despite these anti-inflammatory effects which have been reported in diverse systems and which clearly modulate disease outcome, the role of VIP in regulation of corneal healing, specifically, control of growth factor production, has not been examined. Classically, growth factors, which also may be considered as cytokines, bind to their receptors and regulate cell growth, proliferation, migration, and differentiation.11 Thus, the current studies investigated the potential regulation by VIP of growth factors in P. aeruginosa-infected corneas in B6 (susceptible) mice that exhibit lower levels of VIP when compared with resistant (BALB/c) mice.7 Exogenous VIP treatment was given to B6 mice to determine whether VIP modulates growth factor production and thereby, favors resolution of disease. Data from these studies provide evidence that VIP treatment leads to upregulation of growth factor production in the cornea after P. aeruginosa infection, and that both epithelial and stromal cells are participatory. Furthermore, evidence is provided to show that treatment with a mixture of growth factors, given topically after infection, prevents perforation of the cornea. Mechanistically this is achieved by downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines, upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines, antimicrobials β-defensins 2 and 3, and decreased bacterial plate counts. The data suggest that VIP modulates growth factor production in the infected cornea and that this in turn, contributes to better disease outcome.
Screening for Germline EGFR T790M Mutations Through Lung Cancer Genotyping

Introduction The study of patients carrying germline endothelial growth factor receptor ( EGFR ) mutations, which have been found in cases of familial lung adenocarcinoma, could provide unique insight into lung cancer risk and carcinogenesis in never-smokers. However, investigations into the biology of germline EGFR mutations have been hampered by the lack of an effective strategy for screening for carriers. We hypothesized that patients with lung cancers found to harbor the EGFR T790M resistance mutation before treatment, an uncommon occurrence, would be likely to carry underlying germline T790M mutations. Methods Eleven unrelated patients with lung cancer, harboring an EGFR T790M mutation, were identified from a 7-year institutional experience with tumor genotyping. Ten patients had benign tissue available, which was anonymously tested for the presence of germline EGFR mutations. Results Five of 10 cases carried a germline T790M mutation (50%, confidence interval 27%–73%). One patient's cancer exhibited a distinctive indolent growth, which has also been described in preclinical studies of T790M-mutant cancers. A second patient underwent resection of six separate primary lung adenocarcinomas, each carrying different sensitizing EGFR mutations and T790M. Conclusions Genotyping of lung cancers, now commonly performed to predict benefit from treatment with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors, can also be used as a screening tool to identify patients at risk of carrying germline EGFR mutations. Once identified, these patients and their families can be studied prospectively to explore appropriate lung cancer screening strategies. Further studies using existing oncogenomic data to provide insight into underlying germline genetics are warranted.
Encapsulation of Cu(InGa)Se2 solar cell with Al2O3 thin-film moisture barrier grown by atomic layer deposition

Abstract We compared the moisture sensitivity of a Cu(InGa)Se 2 (CIGS) photovoltaic cell protected by 55 nm thick Al 2 O 3 , grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD), with equivalent CIGS cells protected with a glass or a polyester lid. Aging studies for more than 1000 h at 85 °C/85% relative humidity with simulated solar illumination showed that the ALD Al 2 O 3 thin-film barrier provided superior moisture protection for the CIGS cell, i.e. no reduction in open circuit voltage or fill factor occurred, compared to cells protected with a glass or plastic lid. We concluded that a moisture barrier grown by ALD could have broad applicability as a strategy for extending the lifetime of flexible CIGS cells.
Anion Exchange Behavior of Bromide, Chloride Nitrite, and the Lead(II)-Nitrate System at Pressures up to 3600 kg/cm2

Abstract The effects of high pressure (up to 3600 kg/cm2) on the distribution coefficients of simple and complex anions have been studied on a strongly basic anion exchange resin. The retention volumes of Br−, Cl−, and NO2 − were found to increase with pressure, and this was attributed primarily to an increase in the compression of the eluent, leading to greater volumetric flows at constant linear flows. The retention volume of the Pb(II) nitrate species was found to decrease significantly with pressure. This was attributed to a breakup of the anionic and neutral lead complexes to unretained cationic species and NO3 −. The breakup occurred because of the greater ability of the more numerous dissociation products to decrease the volume of the system by electrostriction.
The influence of surface films on near-surface vortical flows

Abstract An experimental apparatus was designed and constructed to generate reproducible vortex rings in the laboratory. These rings were produced in a small test tank and were allowed to propagate upward where they then interacted with an air/water interface. Tests were performed on the following surfaces: a clean free distilled water surface, a solid polycarbonate wall, and the surface of a 1 μm solution of Triton X-100 in distilled water. The vortex rings studied in the present investigation ranged in Froude number from 0.042 to 0.164 and in Reynolds number from 1772 to 6785. Measurements of the two-dimensional near-surface flow field were made using the technique of particle image velocimetry (PIV). Preliminary results show, (i) that the experimental set-up employed in this study is able to generate repeatable vortex rings with varying strengths and propagation speeds, (ii) that the PIV system used to quantify the experimental observations is capable of resolving spatial velocity fields of the flow accurately, and (iii) that the presence of the surface active film studied here profoundly affects the dynamics of the interaction between the vortex rings and the surface of the solution. These effects were observed to manifest themselves in several ways which included vortex path modification, production of secondary and tertiary vortices, and a measured impact on total circulation and vorticity.
Illustration and lectotype designation for Baetis feminalis Eaton (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae)

Abstract Baetis feminalis Eaton is atypical for most Baetis species in that it lacks hind wings. Larvae of this Asian species remain unknown. A lectotype is designated and described for the species.
Do Industries Explain Momentum

This paper documents a strong and prevalent momentum effect in industry components of stock returns which accounts for much of the individual stock momentum anomaly. Specifically, momentum investment strategies, which buy past winning stocks and sell past losing stocks, are significantly less profitable once we control for industry momentum. By contrast, industry momentum investment strategies, which buy stocks from past winning industries and sell stocks from past losing industries, appear highly profitable, even after controlling for size, book-to-market equity, individual stock momentum, the cross-sectional dispersion in mean returns, and potential microstructure influences.
State Lottery Adoptions as Policy Innovations: An Event History Analysis

Two types of explanations of state government innovation have been proposed: internal determinants models (which posit that the factors causing a state government to innovate are political, economic, and social characteristics of a state) and regional diffusion models (which point toward the role of policy adoptions by neighboring states in prompting a state to adopt). We show that the two are conceptually compatible, relying on Mohr's theory of organizational innovation. Then we develop and test a unified explanation of state lottery adoptions reflecting both internal and regional influences. The empirical results provide a great degree of support for Mohr's theory. For the empirical analysis, we rely on event history analysis, a form of pooled cross-sectional time series analysis, which we believe may be useful in a wide variety of subfields of political science. Event history analysis may be able to explain important forms of political behavior (by individuals, organizations, or governments) even if they occur only rarely.
An application of stand-alone costs to the telecommunications industry

Abstract This article summarizes how new telecommunication services are affecting the design of networks, and examines how these developments can be taken into account in the identification of stand-alone and incremental costs. The results of applying cost models to Michigan Bell's current physical assets are reported. Contrary to received opinion, it is found that toll service is not subsidizing local exchange service; on the contrary, the new enhanced services are the greatest beneficiaries from participation in the common exchange network.
Mechanisms underlying the antidepressant response and treatment resistance

Depression is a complex and heterogeneous disorder affecting millions of Americans. There are several different medications and other treatments that are available and effective for many patients with depression. However, a substantial percentage of patients fail to achieve remission with these currently available interventions, and relapse rates are high. Therefore, it is necessary to determine both the mechanisms underlying the antidepressant response and the differences between responders and non-responders to treatment. Delineation of these mechanisms largely relies on experiments that utilize animal models. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the various mouse models that are currently used to assess the antidepressant response, such as chronic mild stress, social defeat, and chronic corticosterone. We discuss how these mouse models can be used to advance our understanding of the differences between responders and non-responders to antidepressant treatment. We also provide an overview of experimental treatment modalities that are used for treatment-resistant depression, such as deep brain stimulation and ketamine administration. We will then review the various genetic polymorphisms and transgenic mice that display resistance to antidepressant treatment. Finally, we synthesize the published data to describe a potential neural circuit underlying the antidepressant response and treatment resistance.
Biomechanic comparison of the Teno Fix tendon repair device with the cruciate and modified Kessler techniques.

Purpose To compare the mechanical behavior of a novel internal tendon repair device with commonly used 2-strand and 4-strand repair techniques for zone II flexor tendon lacerations. Methods Thirty cadaveric flexor digitorum profundus tendons were randomized to 1 of 3 core sutures: (1) cruciate locked 4-strand technique, (2) modified Kessler 2-strand core suture technique, or (3) Teno Fix multifilament wire tendon repair device. Each repair was tested in the load control setting on a Instron controller coupled to an MTS materials testing machine load frame by using an incremental cyclic linear loading protocol. A differential variable reluctance transducer was used to record displacement across the repair site. Cyclic force (n-cycles) to 1-mm gap and repair failure was recorded using serial digital photography. Results There was no significant difference in differential variable reluctance transducer displacement between the cruciate, modified Kessler, and Teno Fix repairs. The cruciate repair had greater resistance to visual 1-mm repair-site gap formation and repair-site failure when compared with the Kessler and Teno Fix repairs. No significant difference was found between the modified Kessler repair and the Teno Fix repair. In all specimens, the epitenon suture failed before the core suture. Repair failure occurred by suture rupture in the 7 cruciate specimens that failed, with evidence of gap formation before failure. Seven of 10 modified Kessler repairs failed by suture rupture. All of the Teno Fix repairs failed by pullout of the metal anchor. Conclusions The Teno Fix repair system did not confer a mechanical advantage over the locked cruciate or modified Kessler suture techniques for zone II lacerations in cadaveric flexor tendons during cyclic loading in a linear testing model. This information may help to define safe boundaries for postoperative rehabilitation when using this internal tendon repair device.
Cooperative Observation of Multiple Moving Targets: an algorithm and its formalization

This paper presents a distributed control algorithm for multi-target surveillance by multiple robots. Robots equipped with sensors and communication devices discover and track as many evasive targets as possible in an open region. The algorithm utilizes information from sensors, communication, and a mechanism to predict the minimum time before a robot loses a target. Workload is shared locally between robots using a greedy assignment of targets. Across long distances robots cooperate through explicit communication. The approach is coined Behavioral Cooperative Multi-robot Observation of Multiple Moving Targets. A formal representation of the proposed algorithm as well as proofs of performance guarantee are provided. Extensive simulations confirm the theoretical results in practice.
Lysophosphatidylcholine stabilizes small unilamellar phosphatidylcholine vesicles. Phosphorus-31 NMR evidence for the "wedge" effect.

Sonication of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) and 1-palmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (lysoPC, up to approximately 30 mol %) produces small unilamellar vesicles (SUV, 250–265 A diameter). Phosphorus-31 NMR of the POPC/lysoPC vesicles gives rise to four distinct peaks for POPC and lysoPC in the outer and in the inner bilayer leaflet which can be used to localize and quantify the phospholipids in both vesicle shells. Addition of paramagnetic ions (3 mM Pr3+) enhances outside/inside chemical shift differences and allows monitoring of membrane integrity by the absence of Pr3+ in the vesicle interior. 31P NMR shows that lysoPC in these highly curved POPC/lysoPC vesicles prefers the outer bilayer leaflet. LysoPC incorporation into POPC SUV furthermore causes a substantial and concentration-dependent decrease in spin-spin relaxations (T*2) of the outside POPC phosphorus signals from 55 ms for pure POPC vesicles (v1/2, 5.8 Hz) to 29.5 ms (v1/2, 10.8 Hz) for POPC/lysoPC vesicles containing 25 mol % lysoPC. Our findings are consistent with the idea of a cone-shaped lysoPC molecule which, for geometric reasons, is preferentially accommodated in the outer bilayer leaflet. LysoPC incorporation into POPC SUV restricts POPC headgroup motion and tightens phospholipid packing, but only in the outer bilayer shell.
Hydropower Development in West Africa: A Study in Resource Development

Contents: West Africa's energy use in perspective - Harnessing water resources for economic development in West Africa - Existing hydroelectric projects - The future of hydro substitution.
LYSOPHOSPHATIDYLGLYCEROL : A NOVEL EFFECTIVE DETERGENT FOR SOLUBILIZING AND PURIFYING THE CYSTIC FIBROSIS TRANSMEMBRANE CONDUCTANCE REGULATOR

Abstract Similar to the recombinant cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) expressed in Sf9 insect cells, underglycosylated CFTR expressed in yeast is not effectively solubilized by a variety of commonly used detergents, requiring instead harsh alkali and SDS treatments, which would denature most proteins. Moreover, solubilized CFTR has a strong tendency to aggregate and form high-molecular-weight aggregates during subsequent purification. We report here that the mild detergent, lysophosphatidylglycerol (LPG), is a very effective detergent for solubilizing the CFTR expressed in both yeast and Sf9 insect cells. LPG solubilizes nearly 100% of the CFTR in yeast in the absence of NaCl and none in the presence of 1 M NaCl. It is also very potent in preventing aggregation of the CFTR during subsequent purification. Exploiting these characteristics, a rapid simple procedure for the purification of functional recombinant CFTR expressed in yeast has been developed. It includes selective CFTR solubilization in the presence and the absence of NaCl followed by nickel–chelate chromatography of His-tagged CFTR. The CFTR produced by this procedure is about 70% pure. Purified CFTR molecules were reconstituted into liposomes and then fused to planar lipid bilayers for single-channel recording. The reconstituted CFTR exhibits regulatory chloride channel activities with a slope conductance of 7.1 pS and a reversal potential of −32 mV. The effectiveness and simplicity of this new purification procedure for the CFTR should greatly facilitate a variety of biochemical and biophysical studies of this important protein. Furthermore, the potency of LPG in solubilizing the notoriously intractable underglycosylated CFTR suggests that this detergent may be useful for solubilizing the CFTR from other sources and for other difficult membrane proteins as well.
Development of a sapphire optical pressure sensor for high-temperature applications

This paper presents the fabrication, packaging, and characterization of a sapphire optical pressure sensor for hightemperature applications. Currently available instrumentation poses significant limitations on the ability to achieve realtime, continuous measurements in high-temperature environments such as those encountered in industrial gas turbines and high-speed aircraft. The fiber-optic lever design utilizes the deflection of a circular platinum-coated sapphire diaphragm to modulate the light reflected back to a single send/receive sapphire optical fiber. The 7 mm diameter, 50 μm thick diaphragm is attached using a novel thermocompression bonding process based on spark plasma sintering technology. Bonds using platinum as an intermediate layer are achieved at a temperature of 1200°C with a hold time of 5 min. Initial characterization of the bond interface using a simple tensile test indicates a bond strength in excess of 12 MPa. Analysis of the buckled diaphragm after bonding is also presented. The packaged sensor enables continuous operation up to 900°C. Room-temperature characterization reveals a first resonance of 18.2 kHz, a flat-band sensitivity of -130 dB re 1 V/Pa (0.32 μV/Pa) from 4-20 kHz, a minimum detectable pressure of 3.8 Pa, and a linear response up to 169 dB at 1.9 kHz.
Momentum Transport by Quasi-Geostrophic Eddies

Abstract Some results due to Kuo concerning momentum fluxes in barotropic flows are generalized so as to apply to quasi-geostrophic flows on a beta-plane. It is shown that linear, amplifying waves on an arbitrary zonal flow cause a net transport of westerly momentum out of that part of the fluid in which Raleigh's stability criterion (as generalized by Charney and Stern, and by Pedlosky) is satisfied locally. Also, it is shown that if quasi-geostrophic eddies are introduced by some “external” agent into a region in which the zonal flow satisfies the stability criterion, then westerly momentum will flow into this region.
High voltage microwave DC block for microstrip ground planes

A novel high-voltage DC block is discussed for use in the microstrip ground plane. Empirical results of the passband characteristics are presented.
T-Lymphocyte depletion and lesions of choroid plexus and kidney induced by tertiary amines in rats

Abstract Four piperazine and seven piperidine derivatives caused depletion of T-lymphocytes in rat spleen and/or lymph node in 1 day similar to that produced by tilorone and its analogs. The piperazines and piperidines have little in common chemically with tilorone and its analogs except that all are tertiary amines. The piperazine and piperidine derivatives were less potent than tilorone for T-cell depletion but most of them had the additional effect of injuring the choroid plexus, and some had the latter effect but not the former. Some of the smaller tilorone analogs also had both types of action. Among numerous tertiary amines used as drugs, a few quinolone and acridine antimalarials were found to have similar actions. Some of the compounds that produced hydropic degeneration of the choroid plexus also caused hydropic changes in the distal renal tubules and in the splenic red pulp. Tilorone, which did not affect these structures in 1 day, caused similar degeneration in choroid plexus and kidney after repeated high doses. These toxicological studies have revealed previously unknown pharmacological relationships between lymphocytes and the choroid plexus and between the kidney and choroid plexus. The former is important because of the potential therapeutic usefulness of tilorone as an immunoregulator. The latter is of interest because of similarities in function between renal tubules and the choroid plexus.
A decision support model to facilitate new strategies and business models for appointing counsel in courts

The process of court appointed counsel can experience severe problems and cause societal damage if the counsel is not assigned properly. To overcome these challenges a new strategy facilitated by a business model and a prototype decision support system (Court Appointed Council System) is developed in this paper. This system is based on a strategic management assessment model to aid public defenders in improving the assignment of court appointed counsel for indigent clients. The proposed system demonstrates that with the appropriate collection of data and rules along with reengineering the appointment process, it is possible to improve personnel assignments by reducing unknown conflicts of interests and identifying the attorney most likely to be acceptable to the client while taking into consideration case-weighting. The study found that CACS was able to account for over 95% of qualitative and quantitative data to make more effective court appointed assignments. If fully implemented, such a system could create value by saving count appointed counsel offices significant dollars by reducing incarceration and attorney costs.
Multiscaling approach in random resistor and random superconducting networks.

We report on a variety of novel features for the distribution of voltage drops across the bonds of a random resistor network. To describe this distribution analytically, we introduce a simple geometrical model, with a hierarchical structure of links and blobs, which appears to capture the basic features of random networks near the percolation threshold. On this model, we find that the voltage distribution is a log binomial, and that an infinite hierarchy of exponents is required to characterize the moments of this distribution. On general grounds, we argue that this exponent hierarchy emerges naturally from an underlying distribution which, at the percolation threshold, can be written in the form, ${L}^{\ensuremath{\varphi}(\mathrm{l}\mathrm{n}\mathit{V}/\mathrm{l}\mathrm{n}{V}_{\mathrm{max})}}$, where L is the linear size of the system, V is the voltage drop, and ${V}_{\mathrm{max}}$ is the maximum value of this voltage drop. The nonconstancy of \ensuremath{\varphi}(y) as a function of y is an unconventional feature in the context of a scaling approach, and a variety of novel properties result. These are tested by numerical simulations of the voltage distribution for square-lattice networks at the percolation threshold. In particular, the moments of this distribution are found to scale independently, with the exponents of the positive moments in excellent agreement with those of the hierarchical model. We also discuss some intriguing properties associated with the voltage distribution above the percolation threshold, most notably, that the higher moments of the distribution are nonmonotonic functions of the bond concentration. Finally, we exploit duality arguments to investigate the voltage distribution of a random superconducting network.
Diethylaminoethyl 2,2-diphenylvalerate HCl (SKF 525-A)—In vivo and in vitro effects of metabolism by rat liver microsomes—Formation of an oxygenated complex

Abstract Metabolism of diethylaminoethyl 2,2-diphenylvalerate HCl (SKF 525-A) or its primary amine analogue causes formation of a stable oxygenated complex of ferrous P-450. The complex is also generated in vivo and survives preparation of liver microsomes. Formation of the complex requires active metabolism of either SKF 525-A or the N -dealkylated primary amine, SKF 26754A. This new species has an absorption maximum at 455 nm. Oxidation of the hemoprotein with potassium ferricyanide causes loss of the absorption band, but subsequent reduction and oxygenation of the medium restore it. This new complex is believed to be responsible for the observed noncompetitive inhibition of drug metabolism in vitro by SKF 525-A.
Dichotomous Role of Interferon-γ in Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplant

Interferon (IFN)-γ is a pleiotropic cytokine with a central role in innate and adaptive immunity. As a potent pro-inflammatory and antitumor cytokine, IFN-γ is conventionally thought to be responsible for driving cellular immune response. On the other hand, accumulating evidence suggests that IFN-γ also has immunosuppressive activity. An important role for IFN-γ in inhibiting graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) has been demonstrated in murine models, despite IFN-γ being one of the key factors amplifying T cell activation during the process of acute GVHD (aGVHD), the major complication and cause of post-transplant mortality in allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT). At the same time, IFN-γ facilitates graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) activity. Dissociation of GVL effects from GVHD has been the ultimate goal of allogeneic BMT in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. This paradoxic role of IFN-γ makes modulating its activity a promising strategy to maximize GVL while minimizing GVHD and improve clinical outcomes in BMT. In this review, the effects of IFN-γ on GVHD and GVL are discussed with consideration of the mechanism of IFN-γ action.
OSCILLATIONS IN THE OXIDATION OF CARBON MONOXIDE ON A PLATINUM FOIL

Abstract Reported here are experimental observations of self-sustained oscillations in the rate of oxidation of carbon monoxide on a platinum foil in a gradientless reactor. The results particularly show the effects of catalyst activity and illustrate some unusual and complex dynamic behavior under nearly isothermal conditions.
Allele specific gain-of-function activity of p53 mutants in lung cancer cells

p53 mutations are mostly single amino acid changes resulting in expression of a stable mutant protein with "gain of function" (GOF) activity having a dominant oncogenic role rather than simple loss of function of wild-type p53. Knock-down of mutant p53 in human lung cancer cell lines with different endogenous p53 mutants results in loss of GOF activity as shown by lowering of cell growth rate. Two lung cancer cell lines, ABC1 and H1437, carrying endogenous mutants p53-P278S and -R267P, show reduction in growth rate on knock-down on p53 levels. However, whereas reduction of the p53 level induces loss of tumorigenicity in nude mice for ABC1 cells, it escalates tumorigenicity for H1437 cells. We have tested their transactivation potential on p53 target gene promoters by performing transient transcriptional assays in the p53-null H1299 lung cancer cell line. Interestingly, while the mutant p53 target promoter Axl was activated by both the mutants, the p21 promoter was activated by p53-R267P and wild-type p53 but not by p53-P278S; showing a clear difference in transcriptional activity between the two mutants. Our results demonstrate allele specificity between GOF p53 mutants and attempt to show that the specificity is dependent on the transactivation property of GOF p53; it also suggests importance of p21 activation in tumor suppression by p53.
Economic Utility of the Ringed Seal (Phoca hispida): Implications for Arctic Archaeology

Abstract This paper presents a ringed seal meat utility index which has implications for analysing archaeofauna from the Arctic. Ethnographical sources indicate that ringed seals are usually transported whole from kill sites to residential sites, indicating that intra- and inter-household activities such as food sharing mechanisms may play a more significant role in conditioning butchering variability and assemblage composition than transport from hunting locations. Qualitative variables such as food preference are also partly responsible for the selection of parts for consumption and subsequent discard. Comparison of a preliminary ranked scale of the “taste” preference of ringed seal meat to the meat utility index yields ambiguous results. However, in this study preference is provisionally correlated with phocid seal bone mineral density. The meat weight index, preference ranks, and bone density data are then applied to archaeofauna from the eastern Canadian arctic and Greenland. Results support previous research demonstrating that the absence of taphonomic information such as weathering and carnivore destruction restricts the interpretive strength of utility data. The results also suggest that ethnoarchaeology can contribute further information on butchering, distribution and consumption that can be used in conjunction with, and to help create, models for carcass utility.
Simulation-based optimization method for three-echelon network inventory system of a supply chain

A single-item, three-echelon network inventory system of a supply chain is considered that consists of two manufactures, two distribution centers and three retailers and implements the reorder point, order quantity (r, Q) inventory policy. The policy decision problem is formulated in order to minimize the total cost of the system subject to customer arrival Possion process, stochastic demand, production capacity and other uncertain factors. Because most of such complex and stochastic problems are not simple to apply analytic method only and simulation is not an optimization tool, a simulation-based optimization method consisting of a simulation model and particle swarm optimization algorithm is developed to obtain the optimal (r, Q) policies. A numerical experiment is given to illustrate the simulation-based optimization method efficient.
Complexity preference and semantic differential ratings of complexity-simplicity and symmetry-asymmetry

Dember & Earl (1957) suggested that Ss have a preferred level of complexity, and preference for other levels of complexity decreases as distance from Ss’ preferred level of complexity increases. Use of semantic differential scales provided significant support for this hypothesis. In addition, Ss showed favorable reaction to symmetry, regardless of whether they were high or low in complexity preference. Such general preferences for symmetry seem inconsistent with Barron (1963).
The interaction between separation system synthesis and process synthesis

Abstract The problem of selecting a separation system for a process cannot be uncoupled from the problem of determining the optimum process flow rates, since the optimum flows normally involve a trade-off between raw materials costs and recycle (which includes separations) costs. An efficient way of obtaining a first solution of the coupled problem is to use shortcut procedures to get into the neighborhood of the optimum design conditions and to eliminate undesirable alternatives. Some of the available shortcut procedures and design heuristics are reviewed.
Neurochemical sequelae of kainate injections in corpus striatum and substantia nigra of the rat

Abstract Unilateral injection of 2 μg kainic acid into the substantia nigra of the rat results in a 45% decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase activity in the injected substantia nigra and in the ipsilateral corpus striatum. In contrast, the GABAergic nerve terminals in the substantia nigra are unaffected by this treatment. Injection of kainic acid into the striatum results in a 60% decrement in the activity of glutamate decarboxylase and of endogenous GABA levels in the ipsilateral substantia nigra whereas tyrosine hydroxylase activity remains unchanged; in addition, dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity in the ipsilateral substantia nigra decreases by 74%. These findings further support the hypothesis that intracerebral injections of kainic acid cause degeneration of neurons with cell bodies near the injection site while sparing axons passing through or terminating in the region.
Tidal disruption of inviscid planetesimals

In view of previous efforts' demonstration that strongly dissipative planetesimals are immune to tidal disruption, an examination is presently conducted of the complementary case of inviscid planetesimals arising from collisions that are sufficiently energetic to entirely melt the resulting planetesimal and debris. The tidal disruption is numerically simulated by means of the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) code of Cameron and Benz (1991), concentrating on the tidal disruption of 0.01 earth-mass planetesimals passing by the earth with variations in the impact parameter at perigee and velocity at infinity. The SPH models show that tidal forces during a close encounter can efficiently convert orbital angular momentum into spin angular momentum, thereby initiating equatorial mass-shedding to inviscid planetesimals that have been spun up beyond the limit of rotational stability.
Time to read semantically related sentences

Ss read sentences specifying relations among concepts, with the sentences related to each other in different hierarchical structures. In the case where sentences had implicative relationships, time to read sentences low in the hierarchy was less if sentences higher in the hierarchy had been read previously, and sentences inconsistent with expectations based on earlier items took longer. However, when structural relations did not involve implication about content, time to read the sentences was not very different regardless of whether related sentences had been read previously.
Toward a Different Cosmopolitanism--Or, the ""I'' Dislocated

(2003). Toward a Different Cosmopolitanism--Or, the ''I'' Dislocated. Global Society: Vol. 17, No. 2, pp. 209-221.
Ontogeny of Androgen Receptor and Disruption of Its mRNA Expression by Exogenous Estrogens During Morphogenesis of the Genital Tubercle

Purpose: The ontogeny of androgen receptor expression in male and female mouse genital tubercles, and the effects of in utero ethinyl estradiol exposure on androgen receptor mRNA expression in the hypospadias model were studied.Materials and Methods: Androgen receptor mRNA expression was measured in mouse genital tubercles from fetuses and pups collected on gestational days 12, 14, 16 and 18, and from newborns using immunohistochemistry and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Pregnant dams were exposed to ethinyl estradiol or corn oil as controls from gestational days 12 to 17. Genital tubercles of gestational day 19 fetuses were then examined by further quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis after identification of the seam area using a dissecting microscope to diagnose hypospadias in males.Results: Androgen receptor protein was detected in genital tubercles by gestational day 14. Androgen receptor mRNA expression increased gradually in each sex during normal development. However, ...
Assessment of sulfate sources in high-elevation Asian precipitation using stable sulfur isotopes.

Stable sulfur isotope measurements (δ34S) made on samples collected from a 2 m snowpit on the Inilchek Glacier, Tien Shan Mountains (42.16° N, 80.25° E, 5100 m) are used to estimate sources of sulfate (SO42- ) in high-elevation Central Asian precipitation. Comparison of snowpit oxygen isotope (δ18O) data with previous work constrains the age of the snowpit samples to the summer season during which they were retrieved (1999). δ34S measurements were made at 10 cm resolution (20 samples total), with δ34S values ranging from 0.4‰ during background ([SO42-] < 1 μequiv L-1) periods to 19.4‰ during a single high [SO42-] event. On the basis of the significant correlation (r = 0.87) between [SO42-] and δ34S values, coupled with major ion concentration time series and concentration ratios, we suggest a two-component mixing system consisting of evaporite dust and anthropogenic SO42- to explain the observed δ34S values. Using a regression model, we estimate that during the 1999 summer season 60% of the deposited SO42...
East Wind Deadly: Nuclear Proliferation in Asia

The spread of nuclear weapons in Asia during the first two decades of the twenty-first century has the potential to disrupt existing security arrangements within and outside of the region, to provide a catalytic agent for an outbreak of conventional or nuclear warfare, and to consign to the ash heap of history optimistic projections about the triumph of economic globalism and political postmodernism in the twenty-first century.
Sudden Loss of Consciousness, Dyspnea, and Hypoxemia in a Previously Healthy Young Man

A previously healthy 37-year-old man had a sudden syncopal episode that lasted an estimated 10 seconds. The patient’s wife, who witnessed the event, said that his eyes rolled back and that he urinated but had no tonic-clonic activity. On regaining consciousness, he complained of dizziness, shortness of breath, and sweating. An emergency medical service then brought him to the hospital. In the emergency department, the patient complained of shortness of breath but denied chest pain, cough, fever, headache, weakness, or previous neurological difficulty. He had no significant past medical history and had been well before losing consciousness. On physical examination, the patient was alert and oriented but anxious and dyspneic. His oral temperature was 99°F; pulse, 115 bpm and regular; blood pressure, 105/70 mm Hg; and respirations, 20 breaths per minute. Cranial nerve function and optic fundi were normal. Neck veins were not distended, and the precordium was quiet, with normal heart sounds and no murmurs. Lungs were clear to auscultation. Abdominal findings were unremarkable, and the extremities had full, equal pulses with no edema. The chest radiograph and ECG obtained at entry appear in Figs 1⇓ and 2⇓, respectively. Arterial blood gas analysis (room air) disclosed a pH of 7.46, a Paco2 of 30 mm Hg, a Pao2 of 52 mm Hg, and an O2 saturation of 89%. Results of the following laboratory studies were normal: complete blood count; urinalysis; serum creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, and electrolytes; blood sugar and urea nitrogen; and liver function tests. Figure 1. Chest radiograph showing prominent central pulmonary arteries with abrupt tapering of the lower lobe branches (especially the left), possible …
Ultrafine architecture of the avian “pecten oculi”

The ultrafine morphological investigations of the capillaries of the avian “pecten oculi” has shown that the free surface of the endothelium has a remarkable specialized border consisting of closely packed microvilli. The basal surface also exhibits an elaborate system of infoldings of the plasmalemma, which divide the basal cytoplasm into many compartments. The presence of a brush border is usually associated with absorptive function, as in the intestinal mucosa and proximal convolution of the nephron. Basal infoldings are found in the distal convoluted tubule, the striated ducts of salivary glands, and other sites engaged in active transport of water or ions. The findings of similar specializations in the endothelium of the “pecten oculi” makes it tempting to speculate that these endothelial cells do actively participate in transport across the capillary wall. Experimental data is presented to elucidate, if possible, the dynamics of fluid transport in this specialized vascular organ.
Increased complication rates associated with Port-a-Cath placement in pediatric patients: location matters.

Abstract Introduction Port-a-Caths (PACs) are commonly placed below the clavicle or below the inframammary line for cosmesis. We hypothesized that inframammary placement is associated with increased catheter-related complications due to redundant catheter length. Methods A review of pediatric patients with PAC placement from 2007 to 2009 was performed. Port placement was identified as subclavicular (SC) or inframammary by x-ray (below the fifth-intercostal space). Inframammary ports were stratified by the midclavicular line: medial inframammary (MIM) and lateral inframammary (LIM). Early complications ( Results We identified 167 SC, 46 MIM, and 166 LIM patients. LIM placement was independently associated with increased total complication rate ( p p p =0.017) compared to the SC group. The catheter survival time was decreased in the LIM vs. SC group (1021±55 vs. 1396±48days, p =0.005). Additionally, LIM placement was independently associated with increased odds of catheter removal ( p =0.006). MIM patients demonstrated fewer complications compared to the LIM group (17.4% vs. 44.6%, p =0.001) and were similar to the SC group (17.4% vs. 20.4%, p =0.835). Conclusions Lateral inframammary chest wall placement of PACs is independently associated with increased total complication rates, migration rates, and need for operative exchange. We recommend subclavicular or medial inframammary PAC placement in children.
A coupled mode analysis of the multistrip acoustic surface-wave coupler

The recently invented multistrip acoustic surface-Wave directional coupler is analyzed using coupled-mode theory. It is shown that the operation of the coupler may be described by a matrix equation relating the wave amplitudes at any point to the input-wave amplitudes. This analysis complements the equivalent circuit approach used by other authors.
Reusable biopsy forceps: a prospective evaluation of cleaning, function, adequacy of tissue specimen, and durability.

Abstract Background: Recent studies have indicated that reusable biopsy forceps remain contaminated after reprocessing and can only be used a mean of 12 to 25 times without malfunction. Because this contradicts traditional endoscopic practice, our study investigated the ability to sterilize a type of commercially available biopsy forceps and prospectively evaluated their function in vivo until malfunction and/or breakage. Methods: Thirty reusable biopsy forceps were studied, 15 of which were contaminated for 5 trials each with 10 6 Bacillus stearothermophilus , and 15 of which were prospectively evaluated clinically over an 18-month period (9/98-3/00). Contaminated forceps were reprocessed by using a standard protocol and placed in a sterile bag containing soy broth. The latter was passed through a 0.2 μ filter and was subsequently cultured. In vivo data included biopsy site, size, adequacy, problems obtaining a biopsy specimen, and reasons for ultimate forceps failure. Results: After contamination, all biopsy forceps yielded a heavy growth of B stearothermophilus . No forceps, including 5 that were piecemeal dismantled with a wire cutter, had residual bacteria after reprocessing. In the in vivo study, 1507 biopsy sessions were undertaken in 1339 procedures. Forceps were categorized as new or like-new in 1259 of 1339 (94%) procedures, some loss of function but usable in 72 of 1339 (5.4%), and inadequate function or broken at use in 8 of 1339 (0.6%). Histologically, 1501 specimen sets were adequate (99.6%) and mean specimen size was 2.7 ± 0.1 mm. Mechanical problems were noted in only 38 of 1507 (3%) sessions to include such things as sticky forceps, and the mean number of uses to malfunction or breakage was 91 ± 15 (SEM) (range 19-132). Conclusions: This reusable biopsy forceps can be sterilized and used a mean of 91 times with adequate tissue sampling. Mechanical problems were minor to time of breakage. Contingent on acquisition and reprocessing costs as well as the number of procedures performed, this reusable forceps has the potential for significant cost savings. (Gastrointest Endosc 2001;53:747-50.)
Supravalvular Aortic Stenosis : Report of a Family with Peculiar Somatic Features and Normal Intelligence

Supravalvular aortic stenosis has been recognized as a distinct nonfamilial syndrome associated with peculiar facies and mental retardation (SVAS syndrome). It has also been described as a sporadic or familial lesion associated with normal somatic features and normal intelligence. Clinical and experimental data have implicated infantile hypercalcemia in the etiology of the SVAS syndrome. It had been suggested previously that the separation of SVAS into three distinct clinical forms was not absolute. The present report is concerned with a family in which five of nine siblings were found to have SVAS associated with somatic features typical of the SVAS syndrome but with normal intelligence. Chromosome studies were negative.
Severe architectural disorder is a potential pitfall in the diagnosis of small melanocytic lesions

Background: Little is known about the significance of severe architectural disorder in small melanocytic lesions with features of dysplastic nevi (DN). Methods: Using previously reported criteria, 355 consecutive DN were scored for architectural disorder and cytologic atypia. The DN were classified according to their size as small (equal or less than 3 mm) or large (greater than 3 mm). Results: Of these 136 (38.3%) DN were classified as small. Grades of architectural disorder and cytologic atypia were equally distributed in small and large DN. Forty lesions were diagnosed as dysplastic nevi with severe architectural disorder (DNSAD). Thirteen DNSAD were small; of these, 84.6% were junctional. DN showing only mild to moderate architectural disorder were found to be predominantly compound. DN with severe cytologic atypia were mainly large (8/10 cases) with no particular type (junctional or compound) predominance. Seven cases displayed both severe architectural disorder and severe cytologic atypia; only one of these cases (a junctional lesion) measured less than 3 mm. Conclusions: Small melanocytic lesions displaying severe architectural disorder are mainly junctional and tend to show only mild cytologic atypia. Caution is needed when interpreting the degree of architectural disorder in these small melanocytic lesions, in order to avoid overdiagnosis of melanoma. Torres-Cabala CA, Plaza CA, Hafeez Diwan A, Prieto VG. Severe architectural disorder is a potential pitfall in the diagnosis of small melanocytic lesions.