cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulation of FGF23: Beyond Bone.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a bone- and bone marrow-derived hormone that is critical to maintain phosphate homeostasis. The principal actions of FGF23 are to reduce serum phosphate levels by decreasing kidney phosphate reabsorption and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D synthesis. FGF23 deficiency causes hyperphosphatemia and ectopic calcifications, while FGF23 excess causes hypophosphatemia and skeletal defects. Excess FGF23 also correlates with kidney disease, where it is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, FGF23 levels are tightly regulated, but the mechanisms remain incompletely understood. RECENT FINDINGS In addition to bone mineral factors, additional factors including iron, erythropoietin, inflammation, energy, and metabolism regulate FGF23. All these factors affect Fgf23 expression, while some also regulate FGF23 protein cleavage. Conversely, FGF23 may have a functional role in regulating these biologic processes. Understanding the bi-directional relationship between FGF23 and non-bone mineral factors is providing new insights into FGF23 regulation and function.
Histologic Observations on the Pathogenesis of Lung Cancer in Hamsters Following Administration of Polonium-210

A serial sacrifice experiment was carried out to study the site of origin and the stages in development of lung cancer in hamsters induced by polonium-210 (210Po). 1 or 2 animals were sacrificed weekly during and after a course of 7 intratracheal instillations of 0.1 µCi of 210Po in saline. This exposure produced a transient radiation pneumonitis of moderate severity during, and for several weeks after, the instillation period. Subsequent pathological changes included hyperplasia of bronchiolar epithelium, and focal proliferation of epithelial cells in peribronchiolar and more remote alveoli, termed epithelialization of alveoli. Hyperplastic bronchiolar epithelium frequently showed numerous Clara cells which exhibited pleomorphism of cells and nuclei, multinucleated cells, and striking changes in staining characteristics of secretory granules. Epithelialization of alveoli showed steady progression from well-circumscribed small foci to larger confluent lesions which were composed of various cell types and resembled tumors. Malignant tumors occurred in many animals surviving more than 24 weeks after the last instillation of 210Po.
Stresses in thin films

This chapter discusses the measured values of the intrinsic tensile stress molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. There are several factors that contribute to the tensile stress on a film. One is the long-range interaction of the assumed inter atomic potential that spans voids of shorter width. Another is the contribution of the surface tension of the enclosed cylindrical void surfaces, a possibility first suggested by Heavens and Smith. The stress increment because of this source is proportional to f /(1– f ), where f is the void volume fraction, void surface energy, and is inversely proportional to the pore radius. The proportionality constant depends upon void morphology, and its magnitude is on the order of unity. Because porosity is observed in films in the zone, it is apparent that there still exist internal surface area and energy in the film. To the extent that voids exist, that there is space between columns not filled by cohering atoms, the magnitude of the average tensile stress in the films must be less than that deduced from the Hoffman analysis.
C-fos induction occurs in cultured cortical neurons and astrocytes via multiple signaling pathways.

Publisher Summary The best characterized immediate early gene, c - fos, is rapidly and transiently induced by a variety of environmental signals. In the central nervous system, many types of stimuli, some linked to neuronal excitation, and some associated with the process of glial mitogenesis and differentiation, elicit a transient induction of c-fos mRNA and protein. Multiple signaling pathways appear to mediate the gene expression. Cultured cortical cells are used to investigate what kind of stimulants induces c-fos in neurons and astrocytes. This chapter shows that N-methyl- D -aspartate (NMDA) receptor activation might be essential for translation of c-fos mRNA to Fos protein in cortical neurons. Dibutyryl-cyclic AMP (db-CAMP, 1 mM) and 12-0-tetra-decanoyl-phorbol- 13-acetate (TPA, 50 nM) induced morphological changes in astrocytes by converting them from flat, non-process-bearing cells to star-shaped, process-bearing cells, and induced c-fos mRNA and FLP expression. Growth factors for astrocytes, such as epidermal growth factor (EGF, Sigma, 20ng/ml), basic fibroblast growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor also induced c-fos mRNA and FLP expression.
Death on the Missisliffi: Huckleberry Finn in Finnegans Wake

S'appuyant sur une lecture intertextuelle du theme de la mort, l'A. montre que les allusions joyciennes dans Huckleberry Finn de Twain constituent un veritable sous-texte thanatologique au Finnegans Wake
Using textual redundancy to understand change

As software systems evolve, their source, data, and documentation files change. Understanding the location and magnitude of this change can reveal information about the evolution process and the system itself.For processes that affect only small amounts of text, change can be identified by removing large blocks of identical text in common among snapshots of the system taken at different times. The results can be summarized to show where change has happened.A technique referred to as components of redundancy is introduced that allocates the amount of matching with nodes in the directory tree in a way that provides useful insight.Two case studies are presented that show different applications of this kind of change analysis: the evolution of source as a result of development and maintenance activities and the change caused by the installation of software on the system folder of a personal computer.These two examples show that this is a general purpose technology that addresses a set of problems in a number of unrelated domains. Other such applications involve the study of a complex build process, change in databases, or any malicious or unintentional modification to computer systems.
Soluble P-Selectin and the Risk of Primary Graft Dysfunction After Lung Transplantation

Background Platelet activation with subsequent neutrophilic adherence to the vasculature initiates ischemia-reperfusion injury. We hypothesized that higher plasma P-selectin levels reflecting platelet activation would therefore be associated with primary graft dysfunction (PGD) after lung transplantation. Methods In a prospective, multicenter cohort study of 376 patients who had undergone lung transplantation between 2002 and 2007, we measured soluble P-selectin levels before lung transplantation and at 6 and 24 h after lung reperfusion in 20 patients with grade III PGD (Pa o 2 /fraction of inspired oxygen, Results Higher postoperative soluble P-selectin levels were associated with an increased risk of PGD at 72 h after transplantation (odds ratio [OR] per 1 natural log increase in soluble P-selectin at 6 h after lung allograft reperfusion, 3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01 to 11.8; p = 0.048) and at 24 h after lung allograft reperfusion (OR, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.4 to 16.1; p = 0.01). Higher preoperative mean pulmonary artery pressure and the use of cardiopulmonary bypass were also associated with an increased risk of PGD. Conclusion Higher postoperative soluble P-selectin levels were associated with an increased risk of PGD at 72 h following lung transplantation.
Negative regulation of bacterial quorum sensing tunes public goods cooperation

Bacterial quorum sensing (QS) often coordinates the expression of other, generally more costly public goods involved in virulence and nutrient acquisition. In many Proteobacteria, the basic QS circuitry consists of a synthase that produces a diffusible acyl-homoserine lactone and a cognate receptor that activates public goods expression. In some species, the circuitry also contains negative regulators that have the potential to modulate the timing and magnitude of activation. In this study, we experimentally investigated the contribution of this regulatory function to the evolutionary stability of public goods cooperation in the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We compared fitness and public goods expression rates of strains lacking either qteE or qscR, each encoding a distinct negative regulator, with those of the wild-type parent and a signal-blind receptor mutant under defined growth conditions. We found that (1) qteE and qscR mutations behave virtually identically and have a stronger effect on the magnitude than on the timing of expression, (2) high expression in qteE and qscR mutants imposes a metabolic burden under nutrient conditions that advance induction and (3) high expression in qteE and qscR mutants increases population growth when QS is required, but also permits invasion by both wild-type and receptor mutant strains. Our data indicate that negative regulation of QS balances the costs and benefits of public goods by attenuating expression after transition to the induced state. As the cells cannot accurately assess the amount of cooperation needed, such bet-hedging would be advantageous in changing parasitic and nonparasitic environments.
Plasma immersion ion implantation for materials modification and semiconductor processing: Carbon nitride films and poly-Si TFTs hydrogenation

Abstract This paper provides a review of the recent research on plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII) for materials modification and semiconductor processing performed by the Plasma Science group at Northeastern University. The results from two PIII experiments: thin carbon films modification by nitrogen implantation and the hydrogenation of polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) thin film transistors (TFTs) for defect passivation are presented. For the nitrogen implanted carbon films (CNx), low energy PIII (∼ 2 keV) formed covalent carbon-nitrogen bonds in the carbon films and reduced the interfacial tension between the films and the substrate which suggest an improvement in adhesion. Conventional ion beam (IB) nitrogen implantation produced CNx films with less nitrogen to carbon ratio [N] [C] and significant surface damage. In the hydrogenation of poly-Si TFTs experiment, a high hydrogenation efficiency was achieved by low energy (1 keV) and high dose rate (∼ 1016/cm2 s) implantation using an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) source. Significant improvement in the device parameters (e.g., leakage current, effective mobility, threshold voltage, and subthreshold slope) was achieved in a fraction of the time needed by other hydrogenation methods.
Experiments and numerical simulation on soot formation in opposed-jet ethylene diffusion flames

An experimental and computational study is presented for soot formation in counterflow diffusion flames of ethylene and air. Experimentally, the soot extinction and scattering profiles are determined for four well-controlled flames subjected to different straining rates. Computationally, the experimental situations are simulated by combining the numerical formulation of the counterflow flame with a model of soot particle inception, coagulation, and growth, with the moment description of particle size distribution function. Numerical simulation yields satisfactory results when compared to the experimentally determined soot profiles. It is shown that the surface addition of acetylene is the dominant process of soot mass growth for the present counterflow diffusion flames, and that in order to predict the experimental soot growth, the soot surface radical sites must be conserved upon its reaction with acetylene. While the comparison between numerical calculation and experimental data is satisfactory, we have also identified uncertainties on which further work is needed within the framework of the soot model, particularly surface radical dynamics.
The use of protocol analysis for determining ability requirements for personnel selection on a computer-based task

Abstract The role of cognitively oriented tasks in the workplace continues to increase as automation of physical task components advances. Difficulties in automating the operator's cognitive processes have placed a renewed emphasis on the human component in advanced manufacturing systems. While traditional task analysis techniques have made significant contributions to improving productivity when important task elements are visually observable, their focus on manual task procedures make them less effective for cognitively oriented activities. This research has made a first attempt at integrating techniques from several disciplines to develop a cognitive task analysis methodology. The utility of this combined approach is examined for a new system being tested in the United States Postal Service. This task requires operators to encode, via a keyboard, addresses presented on a video display terminal. Results support the hypothesis that, for cognitively oriented tasks, a consensus based analysis technique (th...
Control of motor vehicle emissions‐the U.S. experience

Abstract An historical overview of U.S. experience with highway motor vehicle emissions control is presented. The evolution of new motor vehicle emissions certification practice, end‐of‐assembly‐line inspection, in‐use surveillance and recall, inspection and maintenance, and antitampering programs is discussed. The changes in motor vehicle design and fuel formulation resulting from these practices are also described, along with associated changes in the characteristics of emissions. Although significant reductions of new motor vehicle emission rates have been experienced, excessive consumer tampering and poor maintenance, along with large increases in the number of roadway miles traveled, have decreased the magnitude of air quality improvements resulting from these control efforts. As a result of these and other observations, the U.S. Congress amended the Clean Air Act in 1990 to require more stringent new motor vehicle emission standards, changes in procedures for identification and repair of motor vehic...
On the equilibrium configurations of flexible fibers in a flow

Abstract We discuss the equilibrium configurations of a fiber clamped to a spherical body and immersed in a flow ranging between 0 and 50 cm/s. Experimental and numerical results are presented and the effects of flow speed and positioning of the fiber upon the equilibrium configuration are investigated. Our investigations reveal that the orientation of the fiber and its length has a significant impact upon its bending and drag experienced by the sphere-fiber system. We note that the longer fibers (i) bend significantly more than the shorter ones and (ii) display oscillatory or flapping motion at much lower flow speeds than their shorter counterparts. The simulations also reveal that the drag on the fiber is noticeably effected by the size of the basal body. Drag exponents (or Vogel exponents) are also computed and seen to deviate slightly from previous results.
Self‐control, fluctuating willpower, and forensic practice

Purpose – This article aims to explain the relevance of new findings about self‐control and willpower for antisocial behaviour and forensic practice.Design/methodology/approach – The relevance of the phenomena is covered first, followed by an exposition of how self‐control works.Findings – The basic ingredients for effective self‐control are standards, monitoring, and willpower. Willpower fluctuates as a function of demands on it (including decision making) and bodily states (including food and rest). Self‐control and willpower can be increased, even in adults.Practical implications – Antisocial and criminal behaviour is often mediated by failures of self‐control. Remediation and prevention can benefit by applying a correct understanding of how self‐control functions.Originality/value – Understanding of self‐control has advanced greatly in recent years and is highly relevant to forensic practice. Clients can learn to gain control over their actions.
Monte Carlo simulations of neutron fluxes for varying rock types

Abstract Results are presented to permit more accurate estimates of the production rate of cosmogenic nuclides through neutron absorption for igneous rocks. Numerical simulations were run using the Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport Code for nine different igneous rock types. A graph of neutron flux versus depth is presented, along with parameters for fitting a general equation to the data.
Increases in ethanol ingestion by young rats following interaction with intoxicated siblings: a review.

Although there are a variety of animal models used in alcoholism research, there has been very little experimental investigation into possible environmental/experiential factors leading to an initial bout of alcohol ingestion. Adolescent alcohol abuse is a major problem in today's society and research is beginning to focus on the predisposing conditions toward alcohol consumption, particularly in this vulnerable age group. The results of recent research from our laboratory are reviewed in which voluntary ingestion of ethanol by preweanling and adolescent rats is increased following exposure to an intoxicated sibling. This paradigm centers on the notion that rodents, and perhaps other mammalian species as well, acquire information about foods to ingest based in part on interaction with a conspecific that has recently ingested a novel diet (e.g. Galef, 1981). Smelling food-derived cues on the breath of another animal is known to affect later food choice. The procedures described in this paper represent a potential new model for examining the effects of early exposure to ethanol through social interactions on the initiation of voluntary alcohol ingestion.
Personal identity and the eighteenth-century English landscape garden

Abstract In March of 1690, John Locke published his Essay Concerning Human Understanding. The unprecedented interest which the philosophical treatise stimulated resulted in Locke's soon turning his attention to the preparation of a second edition which ultimately appeared in 1694. During this revisionary process, Locke communicated with a number of acquaintances, including a recent one, the Irish philosopher William Molyneux. In his response to a request from Locke for suggestions for changes, Molyneux offered that he would be interested in his, Locke's, thoughts on personal identity.1 As a result of this correspondence, the second edition of the Essay included a new chapter (Book 11, number 27) entitled ‘Of identity and diversity’. Here Locke argued that personal identity was only derived from one's awareness of the ongoing activities of one's consciousness, out of which emerged the comprehension of a uniquely experienced present and past, and the projection of an anticipated future. ‘For it is by the co...
Geographic variation in calcium and clutch size

For over a half century numerous hypotheses have surfaced aimed at explaining a key life history trait, the evolution of clutch size in birds. A principal goal has been to explain why clutch size generally increases with latitude both within species and among closely related species. Most hypotheses have stressed food limitation, predation, or seasonality. I present a novel hypothesis to explain geographic variation: a limitation of calcium resulting from broad scale variation in this element. Because the storage capacity of avian medullary bone is limited or nonexistent, during egg formation, female birds must intake supplemental calcium. Yet calcium and other exchangeable bases are much rarer in tropical soils. I briefly review the abundant experimental and observational evidence supporting how calcium limitation affects clutch size and other life history traits, and I present a series of predictions (and apparent support for them), stemming from the calcium variation and limitation hypothesis. The balance of evidence suggests that variability in availability of environmental calcium plays a proximate and ultimate role in the evolution of clutch size. Although this hypothesis is not mutually exclusive with others, it highlights another factor that needs to be considered in studies of the geographic variation in clutch size.
The effect of shift work on red blood cell distribution width

Limited research demonstrates that shift work (e.g., evening shift, night shift, rotating shift) increases the risk of certain health outcomes, such as hypertriglyceridemia and metabolic syndrome. Red blood cell distribution width (RDW), which is commonly assessed and reported by physicians, is a novel biomarker of cardiovascular disease. However, no study has examined the association of shift work on RDW, which was the purpose of this study. Data from the 2005-2010 NHANES were used. RDW was assessed from a blood sample; shift work was assessed from a questionnaire, and various demographic, behavioral/psychological, occupational, and biological parameters were included as covariates. The fully adjusted model showed that the odds of having an elevated RDW for women on rotating shift vs. day shift increased by 46% (OR=1.46; 95% CI: 1.03-2.08). Women on a rotating shift had increased odds of having an elevated RDW, which is concerning as elevated RDW increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Health care professionals are encouraged to include questions about organization of work schedules and their tolerance of such schedules during the patient's consultation.
Development and Validation of Reaction Mechanisms for Alcohol-Blended Fuels for IC Engine Applications

Advanced numerical models have been developed for better understanding of how adding mixed alcohol fuels to stock fuels affects octane number and emissions. For predictions of combustion and emissions, a reduced chemical kinetic mechanism has been developed for fuel mixtures with components including isooctane, n-heptane, methanol, ethanol, n-butanol, and propanol. The model predictions show a boosted octane number with the addition of alcohols and reduced emissions of both carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The numerically predicted trends are consistent with experimental data from the Cooperative Fuel Research (CFR) single-cylinder engine, and the reduced chemistry can be readily implemented into 3-D simulations.
Iodine swelling of polyacrylonitrile I. Effect of orientation and evidence for a three-phase structure

Abstract The swelling of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) film in aqueous I2/KI (or I3 −) solutions of different concentrations up to 2.0 molal has been investigated, using both biaxially oriented and unoriented film. The absorption curve (equilibrium absorption vs concentration) for oriented film shows three distinct steps, at concentrations of 0.25, 0.65, and 1.6 molal, leading to weight increases of the sample of approximately 250%, 2000%, and 3200%, respectively. In unoriented film, smooth progressive increases of absorption are observed in place of the first and third steps; only the second abrupt step remains. A significant difference in desorption behavior is seen in extraction experiments carried out above and below the second step. It is hypothesized that the first and third steps of swelling correspond to the penetration of two different “amorphous” phases in the polymer, which together with a crystalline phase would indicate a three-phase structure for PAN. The second step of swelling may represent a co...
Growth and characterization of Cd1−xZnxTe and Hg1−yZnyTe

Abstract We describe the modified vertical Bridgman conditions required for bulk growth of Cd 1-x Zn x Te and Hg 0.87 Zn 0.13 Te. Good quality single crystals were obtained, with dislocation densities of approximately 4x10 4 to 1x10 5 cm -2 . No precipitates were observed under IR microscopic examination. The Hg 0.87 Zn 0.13 Te crystal exhibited n-type behavior after a 250°C mercury saturated post-anneal, with a carrier density of 8x10 15 cm -3 and mobility of 1.5x10 5 cm 2 /V·s at 77 K. X-ray lattice constant measurements and atomic absorption analysis were used to establish accurately the zinc mole fraction in the crystals. The structural properties were studied using X-ray diffraction and topography; photoreflectance, a contactless form of the electric field modulated reflectivity technique, was used for optical characterization.
Differential expression of the transfected liver-specific α1-inhibitor III gene in normal hepatocytes and hepatoma cells in culture

Abstract Normal and malignant hepatocytes were transfected during log phase culture with a nested series of DNA plasmids containing 5′-flanking regions of the rat liver-specific acute phase plasma proteinase α 1 -inhibitor III (α 1 I3) gene. Under these conditions, luciferase reporter gene expression in primary adult rat and mouse hepatocytes was 10-fold higher than luciferase expression in hepatoma lines (human HepG2 and Hep3B; rat FAZA). Optimal expression in primary rat hepatocytes required regions stretching 2214 bp 5′-upstream of the transcription start site. Shorter 5′-flanking sequences were optimal for expression in hepatoma cells(−1025 and −186 bp for rat and human lines, respectively) and primary mouse hepatocytes (−225 bp). In contrast, regions from −186 to −225 bp drove luciferase expression in primary rat hepatocytes, but only 20–75% of optimal levels. Qualitative differences were unaccounted for by non-equivalent uptake of plasmid DNA, suggesting that tissue specific gene expression is regulated differently in normal and malignant cells, and with apparent species specificity.
Optimal multi-objective low-thrust spacecraft trajectories

Abstract Genetic algorithms have gained popularity as effective search procedures for obtaining solutions to traditionally difficult space mission optimization problems. In this paper, a hybrid optimization method is described that integrates a multi-objective genetic algorithm with a calculus-of-variations-based low-thrust trajectory optimizer. Fronts of Pareto optimal trajectories are generated and novel trajectories identified for both Earth–Mars and Earth–Mercury missions.
Sucrose metabolism and IAA and ethylene production in muskmelon ovaries

Changes induced by the pollination of ovaries may be mediated by phytohormones and involve sudar-mediated by phytohormones and involve sugar-metabolizing enzymes. In order to further explore these relationships, soluble sugars, sucrose-phosphate synthase (EC 2.4.1.14), sucrose synthase (EC 2.4.1.13), acid and neutral invertases (EC 3.2.1.26), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and ethylene were investigated in muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) ovaries sampled before, during, and after anthesis. The fresh weight of ovaries increased 100% within 48 h after pollination, but did not change significantly in the absence of pollination. While sugar content per ovary increased after pollination, sugar content per mg protein was unaffected. Sucrose was not detected in nonpollinated ovaries 48 h after anthesis. Free IAA content was highest in ovaries sampled 48h before anthesis. Pollination had no immediate effect on IAA content per mg protein in postanthesis ovaries. Although detected in all ovaries sampled, ethylene production increased significantly only in nonpollinated ovaries. Activity of sucrose-phosphate synthase was the same at all stages. The specific activities of sucrose synthase and the invertases were highest in nonpollinated ovaries. The increase in rate of sugar import into ovaries following pollination was not accompanied by an increase in the specific activity of any enzyme assayed, but was coincident with an increase in the total activity per ovary of surcose synthase and acid invertase. There appears to be no direct relationship between sucrose-metabolizing enzymes, IAA or ethylene in developing pollinated ovaries but the increase in sucrose cleavage activity in nonpollinated ovaries may be related to the increase in ethylene production.
Vocational Cognition: Accuracy of 3rd-, 6th, 9th, and 12th-Grade Students.

Abstract The learning of occupational knowledge by many students does not appear to be commensurate with the role vocational information will play in major life activity in the labor force. Accuracy of 3rd-, 6th-, 9th-, and 12th-grade students was assessed on six occupational dimensions for 20 well-known occupations (e.g., carpenter, nurse). The occupational dimensions were preparation time, availability, earnings, physical requirements, mental requirements, and status. Students improved across the grades in accuracy for each of these dimensions. They were most accurate in judging earnings and least accurate in judging availability of the occupations. Occupations at the extreme ends of the occupational dimensions yielded greatest inaccuracy. Highest preference (liking, enjoyment) for the occupations was correlated with highest perceptions of status, mental requirements, earnings, and preparation time. Predominant job aspirations after finishing school were more reflective of professional preparation for 9th- and 12th-graders than for students in the earlier grades.
Metaphysics Without Conceptual Analysis

Frank Jackson's book brings a central metaphilosophical issue into sharp focus, and it is this general issue-the role of conceptual analysis and the thesis that it is a source of a priori knowledge-to which I will direct my comments. I have no problem with the activity that Jackson calls "conceptual analysis." My worry is about the epistemological status claimed for this activity. I confess that I have only a dim idea of what a priori knowledge might be, but I am inclined to be skeptical about whether the conclusions of philosophical inquiry are, in any reasonable sense, knowable a priori. So in a sense, it is the Quinean orthodoxy (as Jackson describes it) that I want to defend. But I will not follow Quine in rejecting the idea of necessity and the utility of the framework of possible worlds (effectively used by Jackson in developing his arguments) for clarifying the content of our attempts to describe the world. I am in complete agreement with Jackson that "telling how things are requires representational devices, structures that somehow effect a partition in the possibilities." (p. 53) The neo-Quinean position that I want to defend aims to reconcile this idea of what it is to say how things are with Quine's rejection of the a priori status of philosophical analyses. In section 1 I will express some doubts about Jackson's argument that conceptual analysis-analysis of meaning-is an essential preliminary to serious metaphysics. In section 2, I will raise some questions about Jackson's distinction between the modest and the immodest use of conceptual analysis in metaphysics. Finally, in section 3, I will take issue with Jackson's interpretation of the Quinean doctrine that he contrasts with the position he is defending.
Prognosis following spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance in chronic hepatitis B patients with or without concurrent infection

Abstract Background & Aims: Spontaneous hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance is a rare event in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection. The aim of this study was to clarify the controversy on long-term prognosis following spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance using a large series of patients. Methods: A total of 218 patients (172 men and 46 women) who had undergone spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance were followed up for 12–179 months (median, 61.7 months; mean, 63.4 ± 38.5 months) with liver biochemistry, serology, measurement of α-fetoprotein level, and abdominal ultrasonography every 6 months or every 3 months for the 29 patients who had developed cirrhosis at the time of HBsAg seroclearance. Results: Of the 189 patients who were noncirrhotic at the time of HBsAg clearance, 3 (1.6%) developed cirrhosis, 2 (1.1%) developed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and 1 died of HCC. These complications all developed in patients with concurrent hepatitis C virus or hepatitis delta virus infection ( P P P = 0.004). In contrast, of the 29 patients who had developed liver cirrhosis, 4 (13.8%) had hepatic decompensation and one died of HCC. Conclusions: The prognosis following spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance is excellent, except in patients with cirrhosis or those with concurrent hepatitis C virus or hepatitis delta virus infection. GASTROENTEROLOGY 2002;123:1084-1089
High-performance 1D CCD camera

A 1D camera was developed to provide a small high-dynamic-range, high- resolution imager for use in a variety of optical processors. The camera is built around a high-performance 16-port 1024-pixel by 1-line charge- coupled device (CCD) array. The array and associated drive circuitry are integrated into a compact camera head. The camera contains a three-board set consisting of the array and its output buffers, a clock driver board, and a timing control board. Because of the parallel output structure, the readout time can be less than 10microsecond(s) , giving a maximum data output rate of over 100 million pixels per second. The camera has a dynamic range of over 55 dB of optical intensity. The camera electronically buffers the CCD outputs to drive 75-ohm coaxial cables to an external array of analog multiplexers and an analog to digital converter (ADC). At the highest transfer rate of over 100,000 lines per second, 16 ADCs could be used to read all the channels simultaneously. The camera also provides transistor-transistor logic (TTL) clocking waveforms, which are converted to metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) voltage levels to control and drive the CCD array. In order to allow a sufficient amount of flexibility, the camera provides different adjustable parameters and interface options for the user. Interface options include selection of an internal or external clock source, a shutter signal, and an internal/external trigger source.
Interaction of enantiomers of hydroxy tolazoline with adrenoceptors

Adrenoceptor-mediated effects of the enantiomers of hydroxytolazoline and tolazoline (i. e., desoxy derivative) have been investigated in vitro. The enantiomers and tolazoline were partial agonists of postjunctional α1-adrenoceptors in rat aorta. The rank order of potencies of the compounds in this system was as follows: tolazoline > R(−)-hydroxytolazoline > S(+)-hydroxytolazoline. The efficacy of R(−)-hydroxytolazoline was higher than that of tolazoline, though its affinity for the receptor was less. The KB values for prazosin against these agonists were nearly equal, which indicated that these imidazolines activate the same type of receptor in rat aorta. The S(+)-isomer, however, produced both a prazosin sensitive and resistant component of the response. The interactions of the derivatives with presynaptic α2-adrenoceptors were studied in field-stimulated myenteric plexus-longitudinal muscle of guinea-pig ileum. These substances were blockers at presynaptic α2-adrenoceptors. Based on KB values, the order of affinity in this system was as follows: tolazoline > S(+)isomer ≥ R(−)-isomer. β-Adrenoceptor mediated activity was quantitated in guinea-pig and rat atria. R(−)-hydroxytolazoline lacked chronotropic effects either in guinea pig or rat atria. At 3 × 10−4 M the isomer did not antagonize the effect of isoproterenol in the atria. On the other hand, S(+)-hydroxytolazoline produced a variable chronotropic effect in guinea-pig atria, but failled to show any significant activity in rat atria. Thus, the β-adrenoceptor mediated action appears to be insignificant. Steric aspects of α-adrenoceptor mediated events are discussed.
Effects of medicaid managed care on adults.

This study examines how switching from a fee-for-service (FFS) delivery system to managed care affects access to, use of, quality of, and satisfaction with health care services among adult Medicaid beneficiaries. Using a quasi-experimental design framework and data from a 1998 survey, we compare the experiences of Minnesota Medicaid beneficiaries living in counties that had recently switched to managed care to those living in counties still operating a FFS Medicaid program. The study revealed limited effects of Medicaid managed care (MMC) on health care. For example, we found no significant differences in health care service use or access to care. The results did show some negative effects of MMC on satisfaction with care, with managed care enrollees being somewhat less satisfied with their health care than their FFS counterparts.(Medical Care 2000 April; 38(4):433-446).
The perinatal outcomes of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome for 10 years' experiences (2000-2009).

Methods Between 2000 and 2009, 476 twins (312 dichorionic twins, 164 monochorionic twins) were born in our hospital. We reported the perinatal outcomes for 27 cases of TTTS (16% of monochorionic twins), which were classifi ed by Quintero’s clinical staging. Stage was decided at the time of initial examination by ultrasound. We examined placentas of all cases after delivery and confi rmed the exact chorionicity. In total 20 cases, amnioreduction were performed and 8 cases (16 baby) were followed.
Grain boundary self-diffusion in zinc

Abstract The grain boundary self-diffusion in zinc has been measured in the temperature range from 75°C to 200°C with the use of Zn 65 as a tracer and the usual lathe sectioning technique. Two different high-purity grades of zinc gave an activation energy of 14.5 kcal/mol to within experimental error. It is concluded that the grain boundary self-diffusion activation energy is 37 per cent less than the lattice self-diffusion energy of activation.
Taste-independent nutrient selection is mediated by a brain-specific Na + /solute co-transporter in Drosophila

In this study, the authors show that a sodium/solute co-transporter–like protein, SLC5A11, is expressed in a subset of R4 ellipsoid body neurons in Drosophila and is involved in the detection of the nutritive value of sugars. Flies that lack functional SLC5A11 exhibit sugar preference on the basis of concentration.
Momentum distribution in the nucleus. II

We calculate the single particle momentum distribution $n(q)$ for a one-dimensional model with $\ensuremath{\delta}$ forces. There is a domain of $q$ for which $n(q)$ has an exponential falloff, but after allowance is made for the nonsaturation in the model, that domain does not grow significantly with particle number. The relation of this result to large momentum scattering from the nucleus and to the Hartree approximation is briefly discussed.NUCLEAR STRUCTURE Single particle momentum distribution in a one-dimensional model and its large momentum behavior.
Bayesian analysis of zero-inflated regression models

In modeling defect counts collected from an established manufacturing processes, there are usually a relatively large number of zeros (non-defects). The commonly used models such as Poisson or Geometric distributions can underestimate the zero-defect probability and hence make it difficult to identify significant covariate effects to improve production quality. This article introduces a flexible class of zero inflated models which includes other familiar models such as the Zero Inflated Poisson (ZIP) models, as special cases. A Bayesian estimation method is developed as an alternative to traditionally used maximum likelihood based methods to analyze such data. Simulation studies show that the proposed method has better finite sample performance than the classical method with tighter interval estimates and better coverage probabilities. A real-life data set is analyzed to illustrate the practicability of the proposed method easily implemented using WinBUGS.
WE‐E‐BRB‐03: Development of a Deformable Dosimetric Phantom for Verification of 4D Dose Calculation Algorithms

Purpose: To develop a deformable lung phantom to verify voxel mapping and dose accumulation in 4D dose calculation algorithms used under different scenarios of tissue compression. Methods: The phantom consists primarily of a heterogeneous sponge with an embedded tissue‐equivalent tumor. The sponge is wrapped in a latex balloon housed in a Lucite cylinder. The balloon is attached to a piston that compresses the sponge to mimic the human diaphragm. The phantom was programmed to simulate different breathing patterns. Radiochromic films and TLD were embedded in the sponge for 4D dosimetry algorithm verification. 37 anatomical landmarks were manually tracked to verify voxel mappings for four deformable image registration (DIR) algorithms: in‐house developed Demons and finite element model algorithms, and two B‐Spline based Velocity AI registration algorithms performed between end‐inhale and end‐exhale. A 6MV photon beam was simulated with BEAMnrc/DOSXYZnrc on the end‐inhale image with the dose mapped to the end‐exhale using voxel‐based linear dose mapping (LDM) and particle‐based energy‐mass congruence mapping (EMCM) methods. Results: The mean density of the artificial lung was increased by 10.2% as the sponge was compressed by 2.5cm. The reproducibility of the phantom deformation was within image resolution (1×1×3 mm3), and the accuracy of four DIR registrations of the extreme phases was within 3.0mm. With the same registration displacement vector field (DVF), EMCM and LDM had different doses mapped to the end‐ exhale image. Their difference at the center of a beam was up to 8.3% for a Demons DVF and 5.8% for a Velocity DVF. The maximum difference between EMCM and LDM was 13.2% at beam penumbra. Conclusions: The developed deformable dosimetric phantom readily demonstrated variations among different dose addition and image registration algorithms, and is appropriate to serve as a QA tool for verification of 4D dose calculation algorithms. The research was supported by NIH/NCI R01CA140341.
Turnover of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR): Slow degradation of wild-type and ΔF508 CFTR in surface membrane preparations of immortalized airway epithelial cells

The protein product of the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene, termed the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), is known to function as an apical chloride channel at the surface of airway epithelial cells. It has been proposed that CFTR has additional intracellular functions and that there is altered processing of mutant forms. In examining these functions we found a stable form of CFTR with slow turnover in surface membrane preparations from CF and non-CF immortalized airway epithelial cell lines. The methods used to study the turnover of CFTR were pulse/chase experiments utilizing saturation labeling of [35S]Met with chase periods of 5–24 h in the presence of 8 mM Met and cell fractionation techniques. Preparations of morphologically identifiable surface membranes were compared to total cell membrane preparations containing intracellular membranes. Surface membrane CFTR had lower turnover defined by pulse/chase ratios than that of the total cell membrane preparations. Moreover, mutant CFTR was stable in the surface membrane fraction with little degradation even after a 24 h chase, whereas wild-type CFTR had a higher pulse/chase ratio at 24 h. In the presence of 50 μM castanospermine, which is an inhibitor of processing α-glucosidases, a more rapid turnover of mutant CFTR was found in the total cell membrane preparation, whereas wild-type CFTR had a lower response. The results are compatible with a pool of CFTR in or near the surface membranes which has an altered turnover in CF and a glycosylation-dependent alteration in the processing of mutant CFTR. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Agricultural Nonpoint Source Control: Experiences from the Rural Clean Water Program

ABSTRACT In response to the growing awareness that agricultural nonpoint source (NPS) pollution can only be effectively addressed on a watershed/water resource level, the Rural Clean Water Program (RCWP) has become a major source of practical information on how to conduct a successful NPS control project. This paper highlights “lessons learned” on NPS control projects in their planning or early implementation stages. Repeated contact with land owners along with economic incentives are vital for high rates of former participation. Accurate information on Best Management Practices (BMPs) is best provided by agricultural agency personnel. Targeting critical areas is fundamental to cost-effective NPS control, and criteria for defining these areas should be readily identifiable and specific. Offering valuable services to farmers in return for fertilizer management promotes cooperation. Although the RCWP is not designed to establish direct cause/effect relationships for BMPs (i.e., water quality improvement) it...
An implementation for the detection and analysis of negative peaks in an applied current signal across a silicon nanopore

Translocation of DNA through a silicon nanopore with an applied voltage bias causes the ionic current signal to spike sharply downward as molecules block the flow of ions through the pore. Proper processing of the sampled signal is paramount in obtaining accurate translocation kinetics from the negative peaks, but manual analysis is time-consuming. Here, an algorithm is reported that automates the process. It imports the signal from a tab-delimited text file, automatically zero-baselines, filters noise, detects negative peaks, and estimates each peak's start and end time. The imported signal is processed using a zero-overlap sampling window. Peaks are detected by comparison of the window's standard deviation to a threshold standard deviation in addition to a comparison against a peak magnitude threshold. Zero-baselining and noise removal is accomplished through calculation of the mean of non-peak window values. The start and end times of a peak are approximated by checking where the signal becomes positive on either side of the peak. The program then stores the magnitude, sample number, approximate start time, and approximate end time of each peak in a matrix. All these tasks are automatically done by the program, requiring only the following initial input from the user: window size, file path to sampled signal data file, standard deviation threshold, peak magnitude threshold, and sampling frequency of the sampled signal. Trials with signals from an 11-micron pore sampled at 100 kHz for 30 seconds yielded a high rate of successful peak detection with a magnitude threshold of 600, a standard deviation threshold of 1.25, and a window size of 100.