cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The significance of mucinous metaplasia in Warthin tumor: a frequent occurrence and potential pitfall

Summary Mucinous metaplasia in Warthin tumor (WT) is a recognized phenomenon. Nevertheless, its presence can create a diagnostic challenge in the distinction from the newly proposed variant of mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), Warthin-like MEC. In this study, we evaluated the significance and diagnostic relevance of mucinous metaplasia in WTs. A total of 30 WTs diagnosed based on resection specimens formed the basis of this retrospective study. Mucicarmine staining was performed to identify mucinous metaplasia, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis was used to detect MAML2 gene rearrangement. After review, one MAML2 rearranged case was reclassified as Warthin-like MEC as the classic bilayered epithelium in WT was not identified. The diagnosis of WT was confirmed in the remaining 29 cases. Mucinous metaplasia was encountered in 24 WTs (83%), with 14% (4/29) having an abundant amount. We found that mucinous metaplasia correlated with tumor size (p 0.05). The MAML2 FISH analyses performed in 18 WTs with variable amounts of mucinous metaplasia were negative for rearrangement. In conclusion, mucinous metaplasia is fairly common in WTs and shows a significant correlation with tumor size. Therefore, caution should be taken to avoid overinterpretation of WT with mucinous metaplasia as MEC in cases showing the classic bilayered oncocytic lining epithelium.
Imported fire ant immunotherapy prescribing patterns in a large health care system during an 11-year period.

Abstract Background The first large-scale evaluation of prescribing patterns for imported fire ant (IFA) in a large US health care system was published by Haymore et al in 2009. In this first evaluation of prescriptions from 1990 to 2007, the most often prescribed maintenance IFA prescription was 0.5 mL of 1:200 wt/vol. Objective To provide an updated description of IFA prescribing patterns over the ensuing 11 years from same large health care system. Methods We reviewed 1349 new IFA prescriptions written from 2007 to 2018, from a large nationwide health care system, with primary end points being maintenance prescription strength and prescribing patterns. Results In comparison to the data published by Haymore et al in 2009, which reported that 17% of the prescriptions were written for 0.5 mL of 1:100 wt/vol maintenance, we found that 69% (95% CI: 66.4%-71.4%) of IFA prescriptions written in the past 11 years were for the maintenance concentration of 0.5 mL of 1:100 wt/vol. We further studied the linear trend over time of percentage of prescriptions written for individual concentrations and observed that the percentage of 1:100 wt/vol prescriptions increased 3.5% yearly (R2 = 0.68, P Conclusion Our study shows significant improvement in the accuracy and precision of IFA immunotherapy dosing for patients with IFA hypersensitivity, with ascendancy of 0.5 mL 1:100 wt/vol as the predominant treatment dose. A total of 87% of patients within our study were treated within the parameter recommendations, a stark improvement from findings in the 2009 Haymore study.
Machine learning deciphers CO 2 sequestration and subsurface flowpaths from stream chemistry

Abstract. Endmember mixing analysis (EMMA) is often used by hydrogeochemists to interpret the sources of stream solutes, but variations in stream concentrations and discharges remain difficult to explain. We discovered that machine learning can be used to highlight patterns in stream chemistry that reveal information about sources of solutes and subsurface groundwater flowpaths. The investigation has implications, in turn, for the balance of CO 2 in the atmosphere. For example, CO 2 -driven weathering of silicate minerals removes carbon from the atmosphere over ∼ 10 6 -year timescales. Weathering of another common mineral, pyrite, releases sulfuric acid that in turn causes dissolution of carbonates. In that process, however, CO 2 is released instead of sequestered from the atmosphere. Thus, understanding long-term global CO 2 sequestration by weathering requires quantification of CO 2 - versus H 2 SO 4 -driven reactions. Most researchers estimate such weathering fluxes from stream chemistry, but interpreting the reactant minerals and acids dissolved in streams has been fraught with difficulty. We apply a machine-learning technique to EMMA in three watersheds to determine the extent of mineral dissolution by each acid, without pre-defining the endmembers. The results show that the watersheds continuously or intermittently sequester CO 2 , but the extent of CO 2 drawdown is diminished in areas heavily affected by acid rain. Prior to applying the new algorithm, CO 2 drawdown was overestimated. The new technique, which elucidates the importance of different subsurface flowpaths and long-timescale changes in the watersheds, should have utility as a new EMMA for investigating water resources worldwide.
Determination of the superoutburst cycle lengths of 206 SU UMa-type dwarf novae

SU UMa stars are characterized by "superoutbursts" which are brighter at maximum light and which last much longer than the more frequent "ordinary" outbursts of these dwarf novae. Although there are now more than 1180 SU UMa type dwarf novae catalogued, our knowledge on their superoutburst cycle length Cso was hitherto limited to about 6$\%$ of the entire sample of known SU UMa stars. Using public data bases we have determined new Cso values for a total of 206 additional SU UMa stars in the range 17 d $ $ 450 d was unexplored until now; we add here 106 cases ($\sim$51$\%$ of our total sample) in this range of long cycles, implying a better statistical basis for future studies of their distribution. Our sample contains 16 known WZ Sge stars, and we propose WZ Sge membership for 5 others hitherto classified as ordinary SU UMa stars. Individual superoutburst timings deviate in average about $\pm$7$\%$ of the cycle length from their overall linear ephemeris, conrming a pronounced quasi-periodic repeatability of superoutbursts. All relevant parameters are listed with their errors, and a table with individual superoutburst epochs of our targets is given, enabling future researchers to combine our results with other (past or future) observations.
Do Peers Influence Achievement in High School Economics? Evidence from Georgia's Economic End of Course Test

This paper provides the first estimates of the impact of peers on achievement in high school economics. The estimates are obtained by analyzing three years of data on all high school students who take Georgia's required Economics course and its accompanying high stakes End of Course Test. We utilize an instrumental variables approach to control for selection bias, simultaneity, and measurement error in the measure of peer quality. We find that a one-standard deviation increase in the prior academic achievement of peers increases achievement in economics by about 0.09 standard deviations.
A new drying approach deploying solid-solid phase change material: A numerical study

Abstract Recently, phase change materials are emerging in thermal drying technology. This study offers a new approach in thermal drying of a moist paper sheet deploying solid-solid phase change material, tentatively as an alternative to solid-liquid micro-encapsulated PCMs uniformly dispersed inside the void part of porous sheet. In contrast to SL-MEPCM scenario, SS-PCM is fabricated in solid matrix of porous medium, remaining the sheet porosity intact. Additionally, comparing to its SL-MEPCM counterpart, any costly PCM encapsulation process or change in the design of headbox of commercial paper machine is avoided. As well, volume change during phase transition is negligible. This configuration is particularly ideal for drying applications where a low porosity, initially highly moist sheet is to be dried. A numerical experiment is carried out to investigate the dewatering behavior of SS-PCM fabricated paper in a drying process. A real shape-stabilized polymeric SS-PCM is used in this study. A pattern search optimization technique is employed to minimize the target moisture content. This study shows SS-PCM primarily becomes effective in last stage of drying where it internally releases the heat gained in previous stages. The numerical results indicate the moisture removal is enhanced by approximately 29% utilizing SS-PCM. The effect of SS-PCM volume percentage and particularly infrared emitters are studied, as well. It is observed that SS-PCM equipped paper does not perform effectively in drying sectors where IR emitters are retrofitted. Eventually, a comparative study is performed to fairly compare the thermal performance of SL-MEPCM and SS-PCM in paper drying.
Relational Segregation: A Structural View of Categorical Relations:

This article builds a framework for a relational approach to segregation that emphasizes structures of interactions, transactions, and ties between and within social categories. Rather than explain...
The influence of prolonged flooding on the growth of Spartina alterniflora in Cape Cod (Massachusetts, USA)

The tolerance of Spartina alterniflora L. to prolonged flooding is a subject of considerable debate. Understanding how this species responds to extended periods of continuous flooding in the field is crucial for making decisions about its management where it is exotic and in predicting losses due to sea level rise where it is native. In this study, plots of S. alterniflora within poorly-drained areas of four salt marshes in Cape Cod National Seashore (CCNS; Massachusetts, USA) were lowered to create conditions of continuous flooding over the duration of one growing season. These were compared to control plots where Spartina was removed and put back in place at the same elevation and un-manipulated plots. The density of plants in the lowered treatment was significantly reduced by 86%, whereas the manipulated and un-manipulated controls declined only marginally by 28% and 11%, respectively. Lowering also reduced the extent of height growth, although not significantly compared to manipulated controls. Porewater sulfide concentrations were initially over fourfold higher in lowered plots than the other treatments, and in the range toxic to S. alterniflora growth, whereas there was no effect on salinity. The results suggest that prolonged flooding in its natural setting over the course of several months may be enough to eliminate S. alterniflora. Thus, when areas of S. alterniflora in marshes become continuously flooded as a result of sea level rise, they may undergo substantial decline. Moreover, in controlling S. alterniflora as an exotic species hydrologic manipulation may be a useful management tool.
Proceedings of the 8th ACM SIGITE conference on Information technology education

With great pleasure, we welcome you to the 8th ACM SIG-Information Technology Education Conference -- SIGITE 2007. This year's conference continues its tradition of being the premier forum for presentation of research results and classroom experience regarding the pillars of information technology education: programming, networking, web technologies, resource management and human-computer interaction. Our mission is to share novel, practical and generally applicable pedagogical approaches to all topics in IT education, demonstrate effective bridges between academia and industry, and provide an environment conducive to peer discussion, student engagement and institutional cooperation. The call for papers attracted 102 full-paper submissions from all over the world, including Australia, Brazil, Pakistan, Korea and China. The program committee accepted 42 papers and 6 posters that cover a variety of topics, including general IT Education as well as online education issues, IT Curriculum Development in Programming and System Design, and Accreditation issues. Panels include a session devoted to exploring concerns around the involvement of women in IT and IT education, the formalization of an IT research agenda and programming instruction using ALICE, a visual programming approach. We have a very full conference and look forward to your participation. We have an outstanding keynote speaker this year during our plenary session. The keynote speech by Mike Jones, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Computer Programs & Systems, Inc. (CPSI). He will highlight the urgent needs of industry relevant to IT education.
Identification and Reporting of Common Hemoglobin Disorders: A review

Hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias constitute a major cause of anemia worldwide. Some of these disorders may necessitate chronic red blood cell transfusion therapy, which frequently results in a host of serious clinical sequelae, including iron overload. The following review attempts to offer a simplified approach to the identification of the most commonly encountered hemoglobin disorders. In addition, practical comments on reporting the results of hemoglobin studies and the expected clinical impact of the various findings are discussed.
Iron transport in Escherichia coli: roles of energy-dependent uptake and 2,3-dihydroxybenzoylserine.

Abstract Escherichia coli strains B/r and 2276 contain an active transport system for iron. The system is energy-dependent, repressed by excess iron in the growth medium, and capable of accumulating iron inside of the cells at concentrations 2,000-fold higher than those in the medium. Two tonB-trp deletion mutants, strains B/rlt and B/lt7, which are sensitive to chromic ion and require high levels of iron for normal growth, are deficient in this active transport system. A point mutant, strain Chr2, which is also sensitive to chromic ion and requires high levels of iron for growth, has the active uptake system but cannot synthesize a specific chelator for iron, 2,3-dihydroxybenzoylserine (DHBS). Evidence is presented to support the hypothesis that both the active uptake system and chelation of iron by DHBS play a role in iron uptake from iron-deficient medium. The chromium sensitivity of the mutants can be explained by inhibition of uptake of exogenous iron.
The laminar architecture of visual cortex and image processing technology

The mammalian neocortex is organized into layers which include circuits that form functional columns in cortical maps. A major unsolved problem concerns how bottom-up, top-down, and horizontal interactions are organized within cortical layers to generate adaptive behaviors. This article summarizes a model, called the LAMINART model, of how these interactions help the visual cortex to realize: (1) the binding process whereby cortex groups distribute data into coherent object representations; (2) the attentional process whereby the cortex selectively processes important events; and (3) the developmental and learning processes whereby the cortex stably grows and tunes its circuits to match environmental constraints. Such laminar computing completes perceptual groupings that realize the property of analog coherence, whereby winning groupings bind together their inducing features without losing their ability to represent analog values of these features. Laminar computing also efficiently unifies the computational requirements of preattentive filtering and grouping with those of attentional selection. It hereby shows how adaptive resonance theory (ART) principles may be realized within the laminar circuits of neocortex. Applications include boundary segmentation and surface filling-in algorithms for processing synthetic aperture radar images.
Effect of acute acid stress on isolated perfused gills of rainbow trout

Abstract 1. Lowering bath pH from 7.2 to 3.5 by addition of sulphuric acid had no significant effect on transfer capacity ( P d A ) of gills from Salmo gairdneri perfused with (Epi) or without (No-Epi) 10 μmol/1 epinephrine. 2.Exposure of gills to an acidic environment did result in an elevated vascular resistance (),, the response being more pronounced in the No-Epi gills. 3. No-Epi gills responded to acute acid stress within 1 min and the R g remained significantly elevated during the 96 min experiment, whereas, No-Epi gills responded with gradual increase in R g that was statistically significant only after 96 min exposure. 4. The pH of the efferent perfusate from gills was not affected by the acid stress. 5. In every experiment epinephrine significantly elevated P d A above and reduced R g below the levels found in No-Epi gills.
Parallelism, non-biotic data and phylogeny reconstruction in paleobiology

Webb, G.E. 1994 1015: Parallelism, non-biotic data and phylogeny reconstruction in paleobiology. Many systematists equate parallelism and convergence. However, whereas convergence is relatively uncommon and easily recognized using divergent characters, parallelism is common but more difficult to recognize because divergent characters are less abundant. Cladists, in particular, equate homeomorphy with convergence and reject parallelism as a distinct concept. Unfortunately, cladistic parsimony analysis may not resolve most parallelism. Therefore, criteria for the a priori recognition and objective evaluation of parallelism are very significant. Non-biotic data (e.g., stratigraphic and geographic distribution) provide independent criteria for the construction of hypotheses of parallelism in cases where taxa (1) were geographically isolated during homeomorphic character-state transformations, (2) occurred with endemic faunas, and (3) evolved in similar environmental conditions as suggested by paleoecological data. Australian lithostrotionoid corals were long considered congeneric with European taxa. However, because of their geographic isolation, occurrence with endemic rugose corals and occurrence in similar depositional environments as European forms, they are now considered a homeomorphic clade, resulting from an extended sequence of parallel character-state transformations. The high degree of parallelism, combined with abundant symplesiomorphic characters, led to erroneous phylogenetic inferences when non-biotic data were excluded from analysis. Cladistics, homeomorphy, lithostrotionoid corals, parallelism, phylogeny.
Lead in the California sea lion (Zalophus californianus)

Abstract Atomic absorption spectrophotometric analysis was conducted on tissue samples taken from nineteen organs in the California sea lion, Zalophus californianus , to determine the distribution and concentration of the heavy metal lead. Lead was found to be accumulated in significantly higher concentrations in hard tissue, bone and teeth, than in soft tissue such as fat and muscle. These results are comparable with those found in man, suggesting that exposure levels of lead may be similar for terrestrial and coastal environmental communities.
Time-dependent conformational changes of polyelectrolyte complexes in solution

Abstract Changes in the conformation of the polyelectrolytes when contacted with oppositely charged polyelectrolytes or when subjected to shifts in solution conditions (pH), have been studied in this work along with reversibility of the changes using fluorescence spectroscopy. While changes due to both of the above are marked, they are measurably different from each other. Thus, the extent of coiling of the complexes formed between the anionic polyelectrolyte, maleicacid anhydride–propene and the cationic polyelectrolytes was much higher than that achieved by the change in pH alone. Also, while the changes due to pH shifts were fast and reversible, that due to complexation between oppositely charged ones involved first a rapid uncoiling followed by slow recoiling to a new structure. Interestingly, shifting the coiled conformation to an even more coiled one resulted in a new reversible state, but shifting to a stretched state by complexation led to a somewhat irreversible structure. Also maximum interaction obtained between the anionic and one cationic polyelectrolyte was markedly higher than that between the former and another cationic polymer. These observations using fluorescence spectroscopy was consistent with that obtained by the potentiometric titration. The study clearly shows the importance of the manner in which the polyelectrolytes are equilibrated to desired solution conditions. These results are interpreted here in terms of deprotonation/protonation of the polyelectroytes upon pH change and complexation with oppositely charged ones resulting in screening of charges as well as stiffening.
Thermolytic release of covalently linked DNA oligonucleotides and their conjugates from controlled-pore glass at near neutral pH.

The functionalization of long chain alkylamine controlled-pore glass (CPG) with a 3-hydroxypropyl-(2cyanoethyl)thiophosphoryl linker and its conversion to the support 7 has led to the synthesis of DNA oligonucleotides and their 3′ -o r (3′,5′)-conjugates. Indeed, CPG support 7 has been successfully employed in the synthesis of both native and fully phosphorothioated DNA 20-mers. Unlike conventional succinylated CPG supports, this distinctively functionalized support allows oligonucleotide deprotection and removal of the deprotection side products to proceed without releasing the oligonucleotide into the aqueous milieu. When freed from deprotection side products, the DNA oligonucleotide is thermolytically released from the support within 2 h under nearly neutral conditions (pH 7.2, 90 °C). The quality of these oligonucleotides is comparable to that of identical oligonucleotides synthesized from succinylated CPG supports in terms of shorter than full length oligonucleotide contaminants and overall yields. The versatility of the thermolytic CPG support 7 is further demonstrated by the synthesis of a DNA oligonucleotide (20-mer) and its conjugation with an azido and alkynyl groups at both 5′-and 3′-termini, respectively. The functionality of the (3′,5′)-heteroconjugated oligonucleotide 18 is verified by its circularization to the DNA oligonucleotide 19 under “click” chemistry conditions.
ON DISCRETE SEMIGROUPS OF *-ENDOMORPHISMS OF TYPE I FACTORS

The purpose of this paper is to study semigroups of *-endomorphisms of type I factors, with parameters in a countable dense subgroup of the real line. Most of our results are motivated by the theory of semigroups of isometries. It is shown that every semigroup of *-endomorphisms can be extended to a group of *-automorphisms in a minimal way. In certain situations, it is shown that a semigroup of *-endomorphisms can be decomposed into three simpler semigroups. Shifts are defined and classified up to outer conjugacy.
Spectroscopic study of optical centers formed in Bi-, Pb-, Sb-, Sn-, Te-, and In-doped germanate glasses

We have shown that the broadband near-IR (NIR) fluorescence recently discovered in Bi-doped glasses is not specific due solely to Bi ions. Glasses doped with different 6p (Bi, Pb) and 5p (Sn, Sb) ions exhibit very similar behavior characterized by four major spectral peaks observed in two-dimensional excitation-emission plots and the lifetime of metastable level of about 400 micros. Our results challenge the existing models of optical centers in Bi-doped glasses. Point defect optical centers caused by the presence of 6p (Bi, Pb) and 5p (Sn, Sb) ions are proposed for the explanation of NIR emission in these laser materials.
Sensitivity to angiotensin II of neurons in the circumventricular organs of polydipsic inbred mice.

Abstract The polydipsic inbred mice, STR/N, are known to possess an extremely strong appetite for drinking but no abnormality in the vasopressin system and renal functions. In brain slice preparations the sensitivity of neurons in the anteroventral region of the third ventricle (AV3V) and the subfornical organ (SFO) to angiotensin II (ANG II) was investigated using extracellular recordings in the STR/N and its control, Swiss/Webster (S/W) mice. In the AV3V, less proportion of neurons (15 out of 168; 9%) of the STR/N than that in the S/W (49/206; 24%) was excited by ANG II added to the medium. In the SFO, a proportion of neurons excited by ANG II was again lower in the STR/N (27/104; 26%) than in the S/W mice (64/118; 54%). The threshold concentration of ANG II for excitation of the AV3V and SFO neurons was, however, similar for both strains, 10 −9 M or less. Only one neuron in the SFO of a S/W mouse was inhibited by ANG II application. The excitatory effect of ANG II on AV3V and SFO neurons of both strains of mice persisted under synaptic blockade and was reversibly antagonized by an ANG II antagonist, saralasin. Such differences in sensitivity to ANG II of neurons in the SFO and AV3V, the regions thought to be involved in drinking behavior, suggest the involvement, at least in part, of the central angiotensin system in the polydipsia of the STR/N mice.
Factoring multi-sublinear maps

Abstract Using Rademacher type, maximal estimates are established for k-sublinear operators with values in the space of measurable functions. Maurey–Nikishin factorization implies that such operators factor through a weak-type Lebesgue space. This extends known results for sublinear operators and improves some results for bilinear operators. For example, any continuous bilinear operator from a product of type 2 spaces into the space of measurable functions factors through a Banach space. Also included are applications for multilinear translation invariant operators.
Subunits coupling H+ transport and ATP synthesis in the Escherichia coli ATP synthase. Cys-Cys cross-linking of F1 subunit epsilon to the polar loop of F0 subunit c.

Second site suppressor mutations at position 31 of F1 subunit ∊ recouple ATP-driven H+ translocation in the uncoupled Q42E mutant of subunit c of the Escherichia coli F1F0 ATP synthase (Zhang, Y., Oldenburg, M., and Fillingame, R. H.(1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 10221-10224). This finding suggests a functional interaction between subunit c and subunit ∊ during the coupling of H+ transport through F0 to ATP synthesis of F1. However, the physical proximity of the two subunits remained to be defined. In this study, Cys residues were introduced into residues in the polar loop region of subunit c surrounding Gln42 and at position 31 of subunit ∊ to see whether the subunits could be cross-linked. Disulfide bridge formation between subunit c and subunit ∊ was observed in membranes of three double mutants, i.e. cA40C/∊E31C, cQ42C/∊E31C, and cP43C/∊E31C, but not in wild type membranes or in membranes of the cA39C/∊E31C double mutant. These results indicate that the polar loop of subunit c and the region around residue 31 of subunit ∊ are physically close to each other in the F1F0 complex and support the hypothesis that these two subunits interact directly in the coupling of H+ transport to ATP synthesis. Disulfide cross-linking of the Q42C subunit c and E31C subunit ∊ leads to inhibition of ATPase coupled H+ transport, as might be expected in a model where the catalytic sites of the F1ATPase alternate during H+ transport-coupled ATP hydrolysis/synthesis. However, a quantitative relationship between the extent of inhibition of transport and the extent of cross-linking could not be established by the methods used here, and the possibility remains that the ∊-c cross-linked F1F0 complex retains residual H+ transporting activity.
A Two-Staged Benchmarked Decision Support System Using DEA Profiles of Efficiency

Abstract Using the BvD BankScope™ database through Wharton Research Data Services™, we identified for 2002 through 2005 all of the US national banks listed on the NY or NASDAQ stock exchanges. This yielded for each year about 120 banks. For each year, we categorized these banks into three size groups based upon total assets. We then: (1) developed for each year using the standard CCR DEA analysis those banks that were CCR efficient, (2) using variables suggested in the literature as being important in characterizing the relative performance of banks, we developed profiles of the differences between the efficient and relatively non-efficient banks for each of the three size categories by year. This was the first stage in the DEA profiling. For the second stage, again for each year by size grouping, we: (1) calculated the Super-Efficiency [SE] scores as proposed by Andersen and Petersen (1993) for the set of CCR efficient banks, (2) developed High and Low SE groups using a median-split of these Super-Effici...
Contributions of the Spherical Representation of Vocational Interests

Abstract Comments of Borgen and Donnay (1996), Gonzalez (1996), Gottfredson (1996), Harmon (1996), Hansen (1996), and Prediger (1996) are addressed as they relate to the common themes of the contributions of the spherical model, the utility of a spherical representation of interests, the presence of a perfect sphere, and method issues. We argue that the model has empirical support but perhaps is more valuable as a heuristic for subsequent conceptualization and research.
Current status of a mucosal vaccine against dental caries

The evidence of a specific bacterial cause of dental caries and of the function of the salivary glands as an effector site of the mucosal immune system has provided a scientific basis for the development of a vaccine against this highly prevalent and costly oral disease. Research efforts towards developing an effective and safe caries vaccine have been facilitated by progress in molecular biology, with the cloning and functional characterization of virulence factors from mutans streptococci, the principal causative agent of dental caries, and advancements in mucosal immunology, including the development of sophisticated antigen delivery systems and adjuvants that stimulate the induction of salivary immunoglobulin A antibody responses. Cell-surface fibrillar proteins, which mediate adherence to the salivary pellicle, and glucosyltransferase enzymes, which synthesize adhesive glucans and allow microbial accumulation, are virulence components of mutans streptococci, and primary candidates for a human caries vaccine. Infants, representing the primary target population for a caries vaccine, become mucosally immunocompetent and secrete salivary immunoglobulin A antibodies during the first weeks after birth, whereas mutans streptococci colonize the tooth surfaces at a discrete time period that extends around 26 months of life. Therefore, immunization when infants are about one year old may establish effective immunity against an ensuing colonization attempts by mutans streptococci. The present review critically evaluates recent progress in this field of dental research and attempts to stress the protective potential as well as limitations of caries immunization.
Introducing Fourier-domain mobility spectrum analysis (FMSA) to deduce multi-component carrier mobility and density

Compounds and heterostructures in optical devices often host multiple carrier species that contribute simultaneously to the total electrical conduction, making it difficult to distinguish the characteristics of each type. Here a Fourier-domain Mobility Spectrum Analysis (FMSA) 1 is introduced to sort the conductivity contributions of different carrier species from magnetotransport measurements. Using simulated magnetotransport data from 0 to 15 T of a simple initial trial spectrum, FMSA iteratively adjusts the spectral points in either the mobility domain or its Fourier reciprocal space to fit a mobility range spanning over three orders of magnitude (μ = 670 ~ 1,000,000 cm2/V·s). With its alternating local and global adjustments, FMSA is able to recover the mobility distribution of test data, as verified in convergence plots of the total error as a function of iteration number. This technique resolves the mobility spectra as well or better than competing MSA techniques with a simple and elegant algorithm, while precisely resolving the smoothness and width of mobility peaks without artificial broadening.
Fill'er Up: A Study of Statewide Self-Service Gasoline Station Bans

Can banning self-service at gas stations produce social and economic benefits without raising the price of gasoline? Here's an interesting analysis that suggests that the ban on self-service in Oregon and New Jersey makes good sense.
Acclimatizing micropropagated black cherry by comparison with half‐sib seedlings

Black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) plantlets were cultured in vitro, transferred to potting mixture and evaluated for 8 weeks for acclimatization to a varying, but controlled environment. Whole plantlet growth and water relations were monitored and compared to seedlings of comparable size of the same maternal genotype grown under different conditions, but given the same pretest environment. At one week ex vitro. gravimetrically determined leaf conductance of plantlets was high, but became closer to that of seedlings in both magnitude and diurnal pattern as acclimatization progressed. By 8 weeks, leaf conductance of plantlets was nearly identical to that of seedlings, but the xylem water potential of the plantlets was significantly less. Logarithmic regressions of shoot vs root dry weight indicated that seedlings were allocating twice as much dry matter to shoot than to root growth compared to 4- and 8-week plantlets. Over the same period, stomatal densities of both seedlings and plantlets decreased and stomatal pore lengths increased. Multiple adventitious roots of plantlets emerged from a single site just below the root collar whereas secondary or lateral roots of seedlings originated acropetally along the central root axis. Leaf conductance of plantlets at 8 weeks was similar to that of seedlings indicating satisfactory acclimatization. The larger relative root growth rate of plantlets compared to the shoot, however, was associated with lower stem xylem water potential. The anomaly may be a consequence of the method of in vitro root formation. Plantlet growth rates were lower than growth rates of seedlings and their leaf area was correspondingly less.
Local non-similarity solutions for the flow of a non-Newtonian fluid over a wedge

Abstract The boundary layer and heat transfer equations for a non-Newtonian fluid, represented by a power-law model, over a porous wedge is studied. The free stream velocity, the surface temperature variations, and the injection velocity at the surface are assumed variables. Similar and non-similar solutions are presented and the restrictions for these cases are studied. The results are presented for velocity and temperature profiles for various values of the dimensionless numbers. The effects of the different parameters on the skin friction co-efficient and the local heat transfer co-efficient are also studied.
Use of a new model to quantify compromises between embryo development and parental self-maintenance in three species of intermittently incubating passerines

1. Instead of just times to cool (tcool) and heat (theat), intermittent incubation cycles contain a period (tequil) when eggs are kept at relatively high equilibrium temperatures after heating. 2. Relative allocations favoring parental self-maintenance [when (tcool+theat)>tequil] versus embryo development [when (tcool+theat)<tequil] were measured for house wrens (Troglodytes aedon), tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) and black-capped chickadees (Poecile atricapillus). 3. Wrens showed over-all significant relative allocation to parental self-maintenance, while chickadees and swallows balanced both functions. 4. House wrens gradually shifted allocation toward increased average egg temperature as incubation progressed, calling into question how temperature influences development rate.
Influence of evaporation ducts on radar sea return

Modelling of radar sea return is discussed with consideration of propagation conditions. Both the intensity and propagation direction of energy incident at the sea surface can be significantly affected by the refractive condition of the atmosphere. The authors describe and evaluate a model that incorporates both of these effects for the situation where the propagation conditions are characterised as evaporation ducts. Such ducts are the most persistent marine propagation environment on a worldwide basis for low-altitude propagation. It is shown that commonly encountered evaporation ducts can profoundly affect sea returns. Backscatter and sea clutter are discussed. >
On the discretization of a delay differential equation

The dynamics of the delay difference equation μ[δxn+αδxn-N]=-Xn+1+f(xn-N)asn→:∞is studied for small positive μ. The equation is shown to possess stable periodic solutions that correspond to hyperbolic attracting cycles of the one–dimensional map ƒ.
The esterification of insulin with triethyloxonium tetrafluoroborate

Abstract The partial modification of the carboxyl groups in insulin by esterification with the reagent triethyloxonium tetrafluoroborate has been investigated. The properties of the product formed at pH 3.75 were studied by Sephadex G-50 and CM-Sephadex chromatography, amino acid analysis, coupling to glycine methyl ester with a water-soluble carbodiimide, and reactions with carboxypeptidase A and chymotrypsin. The results of these studies suggested the formation of a product in which 80% of the C-terminal asparagine of the A chain and 20% of the C-terminal alanine of the B chain had been converted to the corresponding ethyl ester. The product was shown to possess complete biological activity as assayed by its effect on glucose oxidation in isolated fat cells and by radioimmunoassay.
Brazilian debt crisis and financial markets: an analysis of major economic events leading to the Brazilian debt moratorium

The effects of the February 20,1987 Brazilian debt moratorium announcement on US bank equity prices are analysed. Standard event study methodology is applied to a large sample of loan-exposed and non-exposed banks to detect new information or contagion effects. Intervention analysis and Chow-tests are used to confirm the results. Additionally, 178 related events prior to and after the default announcement are reviewed to detect any equity price adjustments. The absence of any adverse effect of the announcement of both exposed and non-exposed banks is explained by the significant stock price adjustments following many of the related events prior to the announcement.
Meprin Metalloproteases Inactivate Interleukin 6

Meprins have been implicated in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, in which the cytokine IL-6 is a prominent effector molecule. Because IL-6 levels are elevated markedly in meprin α and α/β knockout mice in an experimental model of inflammatory bowel disease, the interaction between meprins and IL-6 was studied. The results demonstrate that rodent and human meprin A and B cleave IL-6 to a smaller product and, subsequently, are capable of extensive degradation of the cytokine. Analysis of the limited degradation product formed by meprin A indicated that three to five amino acids are removed from the C terminus of the cytokine. Meprin A and meprin B cleaved IL-6 with micromolar affinities (Km of 4.7 and 12.0 μm, respectively) and with high efficiencies (kcat/Km of 0.2 and 2.5 (m−1/s−1) × 106, respectively). These efficiency constants are among the highest for known meprin substrates. Madin-Darby canine kidney cells transiently transfected with meprin α or meprin β constructs also cleave exogenous IL-6. Both human and murine IL-6 cleaved by meprin A or B are inactivated, as demonstrated by their decreased capability to stimulate proliferation of B9 cells. These results are consistent with the proposition that one function of meprin metalloproteases is to modulate inflammation by inactivating IL-6.
Phonon focusing in cubic crystals

The nature of the phonon intensity pattern associated with low-temperature heat-pulse propagation is examined theoretically for a wide range of cubic crystals. In general, huge anisotropies in the thermal flux are predicted due to phonon focusing. The phonon-focusing patterns of cubic crystals divide naturally into two major groups, as distinguished by the sign of their anisotropy factor \ensuremath{\Delta}=${C}_{11}$/${C}_{44}$-${C}_{12}$/${C}_{44}$-2. Experimental and theoretical intensity patterns of ${\mathrm{CaF}}_{2}$ and Si in the long-wavelength, dispersionless limit are examined in detail to illustrate the typical focusing-pattern features characteristic of positive and negative \ensuremath{\Delta}. For both regimes, the evolution of particular pattern structures is studied systematically as the elastic constants are varied. Investigation of the flux-intensity pattern and slowness-surface topology for various elastic constants reveals distinct trends in the phonon-focusing structures. Based on this study, we have defined a small number of angular dimensions (one or two for each phonon mode and anisotropy regime) which quantitatively determine the principal directions of singular flux. The variations of these angles are mapped onto the general elastic-parameter space. We thus present a means for quickly determining the angular positions of the principle phonon-focusing caustics for an arbitrary set of elastic constants.
Patterns of prostaglandin synthesis and degradation in isolated superficial and proliferative colonic epithelial cells compared to residual colon

Abstract Prostaglandin (PG) synthesis and degradation were examined in different regions (epithelial versus non-epithelial structures) of the rat distal colon by both HPLC analysis of [14C] arachidonate (AA) metabolites and by specific radioimmunoassays. Intact isolated colonic epithelial cells synthesized mainly PGF2α and TXA2, as monitored from the formation of its stable degradation product TXB2 (PGF2α > TXB2 > 6-keto-PGF1α, the stable degradation product of PGI2=PGD2=PGE2=13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF2α). The profile of PG products of isolated surface epithelial cells was identical to that of proliferative epithelial cells. However, generation of PGs by surface epithelium was 2 to 3-fold higher than by proliferative cells both basally and in the presence of a maximal stimulating concentration (0.1 mM) of AA. The latter implied a greater synthetic capacity of surface epithelium, rather than differences due to endogenous AA availability. The major sites of PG synthesis in colon clearly resided in submucosal structures; the residual colon devoid of epithelial cells accounted for at least 99% of the total PGs produced by intact distal colon. The profile of AA metabolites formed by submucosal structures also differed markedly from that of the epithelium. The dominant submucosal product was PGE2. PGE2 and its degradation product 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE2 accounted for 63% of the PG products formed by submucosal structures (PGE2 ⪢ PGD2 > 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE2 > PGF2α=TXB2=6-keto-PGF1α > 13,14-dihydro- 15-keto-PGF2α). By contrast, epithelial cells, and particularly surface epithelium, contributed disproportionately to the PG degradative capacity of colon, as assessed from the metabolism of either PGE2 or PGF2α. When expressed as a percentage, epithelial cells accounted for 71% of total colonic PGE2 degradative capacity but only 23% of total colonic protein. Approximately 15% of [3H] PGE2 added to the serosal side of everted colonic loops crossed to the mucosal side intact. Thus, at least a portion of the PGE2 formed in the submucosa reaches, and thereby can potentially influence functions of the epithelium.
Analytical procedures for the determination of organic compounds of metals and metalloids in environmental samples

Abstract Essential and toxic elements that influence life processes interact with biologically important molecules in most instances in the form of chemical compounds and not as “elements.” Therefore, total element concentrations in water, soil, sediments, organisms and human tissues provide insufficient information to assess the impacts of elements and understand their functions. Elemental compounds must be identified and characterized to establish a molecule-oriented data base for the biochemical actions of inorganic and organometallic species. Because most of these species are not volatile and cannot be converted to volatile derivatives, they are best separated by liquid chromatography and detected in the column effluent by element-specific detectors. Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometers and plasma emission spectrometers are well suited as element-specific detectors. The principles of the LC-element-specific detection systems are outlined and examples of their applications are given.
Effects of hyperfine structure on coherent excitation

We point out how the presence of hyperfine structure can improve the coherent excitation and ionization of J ..-->.. J-1 and J ..-->.. J transitions. In the limit of Rabi frequency dominating hyperfine splitting one recovers previously noted rules.
TOTAL CORRECTION OF TETRALOGY OF FALLOT. II. CHANGES IN THE ELECTROCARDIOGRAM FOLLOWING SURGERY.

The material comprised the data of 146 patients with tetralogy of Fallot treated by corrective intracardiac surgery. Electrocardiograms were recorded in all cases before and in 108 cases after operation. The majority of the patients were between 5 and 20 years of age at the time of surgery and have been followed for an average of 1.5 years. Arrhythmias, mostly extrasystoles, were recorded in eight cases before operation and in 14 cases on the last follow-up examination. The amplitude of the P wave in lead II decreased by 1 mm. or more after surgery in one third of the cases. Seventeen patients developed complete AV block postoperatively, seven died; of the 10 who survived operation, in all but two the electrocardiogram reverted to normal sinus rhythm. The electrocardiogram showed right axis deviation and right ventricular hypertrophy in the majority of cases. A balanced axis and signs of combined ventricular hypertrophy were commonest in acyanotic patients and more common in cyanotic patients who had had ...
In-situ diagnostics of chemically reacting flows using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS hereafter) has emerged as a powerful diagnostic method in many application areas. LIBS operates by a focused laser beam inducing multiple ionization and dissociation of the target molecules. The high energy state at the focal point of the laser beam produces dissociated, excited elements which radiate characteristic emission bands while returning to ground states. These emission wavelengths and intensities can be used to infer the elemental composition of the sample. In air at atmospheric pressure, laser energy density of 10 9 W/cm 2 is typically required to produce laser-induced breakdown, clearly visible as "sparks." There have been numerous fundamental and application studies of LIBS, particularly in recent years due to the increased interest in developing diagnostic methods for complex, toxic chemicals under arbitrary conditions. In this work, we present some results on in-situ LIBS measurements in flame environment. In particular, probably the most important utility of LIBS in flames is for measurements of temperature as will be validated against alternate methods.
Superstring gravity and black holes

Abstract We derive explicitly the O(α′3) interactions for the graviton and dilaton in the effective low energy action of type II superstrings. Using this action, the perturbations to a background black hole solution are examined. It is found that the black hole's temperature is decreased, and in the vicinity of the horizon, the effective string scale increases.
Marikana: Voices from South Africa’s Mining Massacre

This book, published by Jacana Media in South Africa and by Ohio University Press in North America, appeared within a year of the South African police killing thirty-four striking miners in Marikan...