cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neural transplantation, cognitive aging and speech

Research on neural transplantation has great potential societal importance in part because of the expanding proportion of the population that is elderly. Transplantation studies can benefit from the guidance of research on cognitive aging, especially in connection with the assessment of behavioral outcomes. Speech for example, might be explored using avian models.
Household Contributions to Community Development in Indonesia

Summary Critical to the success of community development is the degree to which citizens contribute their resources. The paper develops regression models to examine the effects of household and community characteristics on household contributions of time and money to three types of participatory community development efforts: governance, social welfare, and environmental infrastructure. Households with indicators of lower socio-economic status generally contributed less time and money to community development. Integration into social networks was also a strong predictor of the amount of time a household contributed. Because most of the community development efforts analyzed rely on reciprocity, where participants contribute resources in order to receive benefits, the findings raise doubts about the extent to which these efforts help the poor and socially excluded.
Absolute effective areas of the HETGS

XRCF measurements of the flight AXAF High Energy Transmission Grating Spectrometer throughput were used to determine absolute effective areas. The result are compared with component models of the HRMA, HETG and the ACIS-S. The comparison provides an independent view on HETG efficiencies as well as the detector efficiencies along the dispersion direction. Using the XRCF double crystal monochromator measurements in the range from 0.9 to 8.7 keV, the effective areas in the 1st order MEG were determined with an accuracy of better than 10 percent, in the 1st order HEG better than 15 percent throughout most of the energy range. This is within the goal set for the XRCF measurements to refine state of the art composite component model predictions, which in the future will allow us to draw conclusions on the in-flight HETGS absolute effective area.
Cubesats: Cost-effective science and technology platforms for emerging and developing nations

Abstract The development, operation, and analysis of data from cubesats can promote science education and spur technology utilization in emerging and developing nations. This platform offers uniquely low construction and launch costs together with a comparative ubiquity of launch providers; factors that have led more than 80 universities and several emerging nations to develop programs in this field. Their small size and weight enables cubesats to “piggyback” on rocket launches and accompany orbiters travelling to Moon and Mars. It is envisaged that constellations of cubesats will be used for larger science missions. We present a brief history, technology overview, and summary of applications in science and industry for these small satellites. Cubesat technical success stories are offered along with a summary of pitfalls and challenges encountered in both developed and emerging nations. A discussion of economic and public policy issues aims to facilitate the decision-making process for those considering utilization of this unique technology.
Mental content and the division of epistemic labour

(1991). Mental content and the division of epistemic labour. Australasian Journal of Philosophy: Vol. 69, No. 3, pp. 302-318.
Altering conflict attitudes through prenegotiation contact

This experiment investigates the hypothesis that prenegotiation contact improves conflict attitudes between adversaries. Many different literatures theoretically support variations on this theme, but there has been very little empirical work which directly tests the idea. Using experimental methodology and an international conflict simulation to collect data, the findings from this study demonstrate that there is a strong recasting effect associated with prenegotiation contact. Attitudes are changed in relation to the conflict in general, views of the opponent, and views of self. While the results strongly support the positive effect of prenegotiation contact upon conflict attitudes, important questions are raised regarding other theoretical and empirical dimensions of the process as it relates to international conflict resolution.
Giant sigmoidal diverticulum: Report of a case and review of the literature

A case report of giant sigmoidal diverticulum and a reveiw of the relevant medical literature are presented. Only 20 cases have previously been reported.4 Diagnosis is dependent on a gradually enlarging mass, usually found on physical examination. Radiologic study usually confirms the diagnosis and differentiates this condition from others, such as intestinal duplication, emphysematous cholecystitis, cholecysto-enteric fistulas, etc. The treatment is prophylactic. It is important to undertake early surgical intervention before the condition progresses to perforation or other complications.
Water level changes in a large Amazon lake measured with spaceborne radar interferometry and altimetry

We demonstrate that interferometric processing of JERS-1 SAR data over an Amazon lake containing ∼1500 islands yields centimeter-scale changes in the height of the water surface from February 14 to March 30, 1997. For the method to work, we qualitatively find that inundation of about one or two leafless trees per 25 m² multi-look SAR pixel is sufficient to return the radar pulse to the side-looking antenna. Validation is provided by multi-temporal TOPEX-POSEIDON altimetry profiles, which directly measure surface heights relative to a fixed datum. Because SAR provides an image, the water height changes (∼12 cm) can be converted to a net volume measurement (280 million m³) over the 44 days separating the JERS-1 acquisitions. Compared to historical gauge records, removal of this volume from the lake required a ∼50% greater flow.
Human interactions with intelligent systems: research taxonomy

Abstract Human beings are constantly interacting with systems surrounding them. These include personal computers, automobiles, and smart appliances, among many others. It is expected that in the near future there will be interactions with service robots in homes and offices. A great deal of efforts have been made into advancing this interaction using science and technology. The main goal is to make human interactions with systems not only effective and safe, but also enjoyable and entertaining. The objective of this paper is to provide a survey of the current research on such interactions, based on a taxonomy framework. The work presented in this paper embodies human–computer interactions, human–machine interactions, and human–robot interactions. The research undertakings are classified based on five criteria of: application, research approach, system autonomy, interaction distance, and interaction media. Multiple categories are provided in each classification and a large number of research efforts are presented in each category. Additionally, more than 150 cited references are listed in summary tables with respect to each classification category. This provides an easy reference guide for related works with certain characteristics. The advanced interactions discussed in this paper cover a wide range, including: tele-robots, virtual reality, user interfaces, bio-feedback, mobile robots, intelligent user interfaces, sport machines, medical technology, human–machine interfaces, entertainment, intelligent systems, computer input/output devices, human–computer interfaces, and multimedia.
FEW-FTIR spectroscopy applications and computer data processing for noninvasive skin tissue diagnostics in vivo

ABSTRACTNew applications for the Fiberoptic Evanescent Wave Fourier Transform Infrared (FEW-FTIR) method have beendeveloped for the diagnostics of skin surfaces. Our technique allows for the detection of functional groups in the molecularstructure of skin tissue nonivasively and in vivo. The FEW-FTIR spectroscopic method is direct, nondestructive. and fast.Our optical fibers for the middle infrared (MIR) range are nontoxic, nonhygroscopic, flexible, and characterized by extremelylow losses. This combination of trathtional FTIR spectroscopy and advanced fiber teclmology has enabled us tononinvasively investigate normal and cancerous skin tissue in vivo in the range of 900 to 4000 cm' . We have developed aspecial software package of programs with database for the treatment of spectral data that utilizes wavelet analysis, principalcomponent analysis (PCA), image processing, artificial neural fuzzy logic, and data fusion. These programs provide us withthe ability to make base line corrections, normalize spectra, and determine peak positions from second order derivativespectra. In this study, we investigated normal, precancerous, and cancerous skin tissue in the range 1480 to 1800 cni' usingthese programs. The results of our surface analysis of skin tissue are discussed in terms of spectral parameters, DNA bandassignments, and molecular structural similarities and differences.Keywords: (10) FEW-FTIR Spectroscopy, skin surface, cancer, thtabase, smoothing, denoising, features
Multi-User Downlink System Design with Bright Transmitters and Blind Receivers

This paper considers a scenario for multi-user multi-input multi-output (MIMO) communication systems when perfect channel state information at the transmitter (CSIT) is given while the equivalent channel state information at the receiver (CSIR) is not available. Such an assumption is valid for the downlink multi-user MIMO systems with linear precoders that depend on channels to all receivers. We propose a concept called dual systems with zero-forcing design based on the duality principle, originally proposed to relate the Gaussian multi-access channel (MAC) and the Gaussian broadcast channel (BC). For the K-user N×2 MIMO BC with N antennas at the transmitter and two antennas at each of the K receivers, we design a downlink interference cancellation (IC) transmission scheme by obtaining the dual of uplink MAC systems employing IC methods. The transmitter simultaneously sends K precoded Alamouti codes, one for each user. Each receiver zero-forces the unintended user's Alamouti codes and decouples its own data streams using two simple linear operations independent of CSIR. Analysis shows that the proposed scheme achieves a diversity gain of 2(N - K + 1) for equal energy constellations with short-term power and rate constraints. Power allocation among K users can also be performed to improve the array gain but not the diversity gain. Numerical results demonstrate that the bit error rate of the downlink IC scheme has a diversity gain improvement compared to the block diagonalization (BD) method, which requires global channel information at each node.
Prevalence of upper and lower gastrointestinal tract findings in liver transplant candidates undergoing screening endoscopic evaluation.

Prevalence of upper and lower gastrointestinal tract findings in liver transplant candidates undergoing screening endoscopic evaluation
Sertraline and relapse prevention training following treatment by very-low-calorie diet: a controlled clinical trial.

WADDEN, THOMAS A, SUSAN J BARTLETT, GARY D FOSTER, ROBERT A GREENSTEIN, BARBARA J WINGATE, ALBERT J STUNKARD AND KATHLEEN A LETIZIA. Sertraline and relapse prevention training following treatment by very-low-calorie diet: a controlled clinical trial. Obes Res. This study examined the combination of sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, and relapse prevention training in the maintenance of weight loss following treatment by a very-low-calorie diet. A total of 53 women who had lost a mean (± SD) of 22.9 ± 7.1 kg from a pretreatment weight of 103.1 ± 17.8 kg were randomly assigned to a 54-week weight maintenance program that was combined with either: 1) 200 mg/d of sertraline; or 2) placebo. During the first 6 weeks, sertraline subjects lost significantly more weight and reported significantly greater reductions in hunger and preoccupation with food than did subjects on placebo. After this time, however, women in both conditions regained weight steadily. The 13 sertraline subjects who completed the 54-week study regained 17.7 ± 10.6 kg of their original 26.3 ± 7.6 kg loss, equal to a regain of 70.9 ± 41.7%. The 17 placebo completers regained 11.8 ± 9.0 kg of their 23.4 ± 7.8 kg loss, equal to a 46.5 ± 34.6% regain. End-of-treatment differences between groups in weight change were not statistically significant. Nor were there significant differences between the two conditions at any time in changes in fat-free mass, resting metabolic rate or dysphoria, all of which tended to increase with weight regain. The results are discussed in relation to findings from other long-term studies that combined diet and medication.
Reduction of As(V) to As(III) by commercial ZVI or As(0) with acid-treated ZVI.

Abstract Zero-valent iron (ZVI) consists of an elemental iron core surrounded by a shell of corrosion products, especially magnetite. ZVI is used for in situ removal or immobilization of a variety of contaminants but the mechanisms for removal of arsenic remain controversial and the mobility of arsenic after reaction with ZVI is uncertain. These issues were addressed by separately studying reactions of As(V) with magnetite, commercial ZVI, and acid-treated ZVI. Strictly anoxic conditions were used. Adsorption of As(V) on magnetite was fast with pH dependence similar to previous reports using oxic conditions. As(V) was not reduced by magnetite and Fe(II) although the reaction is thermodynamically spontaneous. As(V) reactions with ZVI were also fast and no lag phase was observed which was contrary to previous reports. Commercial ZVI reduced As(V) to As(III) only when As(V) was adsorbed, i.e., for pH
Long-term retention of hydrophilic behavior of plasma treated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) surfaces stored under water and Luria-Bertani broth

Abstract Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is inherently hydrophobic. Oxygen plasma treatment is a non-toxic, low cost method to render PDMS hydrophilic. Storing PDMS samples, immediately after plasma treatment, under water and Luria-Bertani broth (LB broth), a common growth medium for bacteria, retards hydrophobic recovery considerably. PDMS samples stored in LB broth retain hydrophilic behavior the longest period (contact angle about 10–20° after a week) and the samples stored in water also remained hydrophilic for 7 days (around 20–30°), whereas, the samples stored in air recovered hydrophobicity quickly (above 100° after a week). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals no clear correlation between wettability and cracks, but changes in surface properties that are not visible through SEM are seen in the drying pattern left on PDMS by the fluid. We show that bacteria (E. coli strain MG1655 and any air borne) and the biofilm produced by them have minimal effect on wettability, however sealing the petri dishes during storage further reduce the contact angle.
Exploring the Oral and Written Language Errors Made by Language Disabled Children.

Clinical observation of children who exhibit both oral and written language disabilities has suggested that there may be parallels in their error patterns in speaking, reading, and writing that merit further investigation. The similarities are apparent in the problems these children have in many aspects of linguistic function in word retrieval, morphology, phonology, and syntax. Thus, these children substitute "potato" for tomato in speaking, reading, and writing. They omit grammatical tense or plural markers when speaking and do the same when reading and writing. They order the sounds incorrectly when speaking certain words and also when reading and writing them. The word order they use is often faulty across these tasks. Functor words are used incorrectly whether they are spoken, read, or written. Similar observations have been made by other investigators who have noted that oral language deficits are often reflected in the written language behavior of language disabled children (Cicci, 1980). However, the nature of such a relationship has yet to be systematically investigated. This study is the initial step in such an investigation. It proposes to analyze the picture naming errors made by language disabled children and to examine the relationship of these errors to their performance on written language tasks. Picture naming was selected as the stimulus material since research with other populations (Denckla and Rudel, 1976; Goodglass, 1980; Jansky and deHirsch, 1972; Katz, 1982; Wolf, 1981) has found it to be an informative starting point. Because the field is relatively uncharted, it was first necessary to determine whether a naming problem indeed existed in these children. It
A Novel MRI Marker for Prostate Brachytherapy

Purpose: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the optimal imaging modality for the prostate and surrounding criticalorganstructures. However,onMRI,the titaniumradioactive seedsusedforbrachytherapyappear asblack holes (negative contrast) and cannot be accurately localized. We sought to develop an encapsulated contrast agent marker (ECAM) with high-signal intensity on MRI to permit accurate localization of radioactive seeds with MRI during and after prostate brachytherapy. Methods and Materials: We investigated several agents with paramagnetic and superparamagnetic properties. The agents were injected into titanium, acrylic, and glass seeds, which were linked together in various combinations and imaged with MRI. The agent with the greatest T1-weighted signal was tested further in a canine prostate and agarose phantom. Studies were performed on a 1.5-T clinical MRI scanner. Results: The cobalt-chloride complex contrast (C4) agent with stoichiometry (CoCl2)0.8(C2H5NO2)0.2 had the greatest T1-weighted signal (positive contrast) with a relaxivity ratio >1 (r2/r1 = 1.21 ± 0.29). Acrylic-titanium and glass-titanium seed strands were clearly visualized with the encapsulated contrast agent marker. Conclusion: We have developed a novel ECAM that permits positive identification of the radioactive seeds used for prostate brachytherapy on MRI. Preclinical in vitro phantom studies and in vivo canine studies are needed to further optimize MRI sequencing techniques to facilitate MRI-based dosimetry. 2008 Elsevier Inc. Prostate cancer, Brachytherapy, Magnetic resonance imaging, Contrast agent marker, Cobalt.
Oxidative modifications in nitrosative stress

The molecular basis of redox sensitivity in proteins is not well understood. Here we consider a continuum of NO- and O2-related modifications of cysteine residues that constitute biological signaling events on the one hand and hallmarks of nitrosative and oxidative stresses on the other.
Rotating liquid blanket for a toroidal fusion reactor

A novel blanket concept is presented for toroidal geometry in which many of the limitations imposed by a first wall are avoided by not having a first wall in the usual sense. The blanket consists of a rapidly rotating, low-vapor-pressure liquid that has a sharp boundary with the vacuum region. Nozzles inject a continuous layer of cool liquid on the inner surface. The noncentricity of the plasma is maintained so that the plasma scrape-off region intersects the rotating liquid in a localized region. This noncentricity allows sufficient space so that the scrape-off plasma layer will not bombard the nozzles, which penetrate through the rotating liquid. This liquid “first wall” is bombarded by the plasma, resulting in heat deposition, sputtering, and evaporation during the short time before the exposed liquid is covered by fresh, cool liquid from the nozzles. The advantages of this reactor concept appear to be very high wall loadings (speculated to be over 10 MW/m2) and long component lifetime, both crucial economic factors. The nozzles are designed for easy replacement. The reactor's disadvantage is its enormous potential for plasma contamination by impurities.
A buffer system for amino acid analyzers with automatic integrators

Abstract A practical method to prepare eluents with better baseline characteristics was developed to increase the accuracy of automatic integration of amino acids in single-column analysis. Ammonia and other ninhydrin-reactive substances are removed with a cation-exchange resin at low pH. New buffer compositions minimize the baseline shifts and “humps” due to buffer changes.
Trypanosoma duttoni: oxygen uptake by liver slices of normal and pantothenate-deficient mice.

Endogenously liver slices from mice infected with Trypanosoma duttoni and fed a control diet, consumed an average of 31 μl O2/mg N/hour which was significantly different from that (20 μl) utilized by uninfected mouse liver slices. Average endogenous \(Q_{0_2 }\)values for liver slices from pantothenate-deficient mice were 25 μl for infected and 20 μl for non-infected mice. Average endogenous \(Q_{0_2 }\)values for liver slices from control, pair-fed mice were 32 μl for infected and 23 μl for non-infected hosts.
An Ab Initio Investigation of the Structure and Alkaline Earth Divalent Cation Selectivity of 18-Crown-6

We present an ab initio, quantum mechanical study of 18-crown-6 (18c6) and its interaction with the alkaline earth dications Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+, and Ru2+. Geometries, binding energies, and binding enthalpies are evaluated at the restricted Hartree−Fock (RHF) and second-order Moller−Plesset perturbation (MP2) levels of theory using the 6-31+G* basis set and relativistic effective core potentials. The affinity of 18c6 for the dications is considerable, ranging from 150−300 kcal mol-1. The cation−18c6 interaction arises principally from the electrostatic interaction of the dication with the nucleophilic ether backbone and from the polarization of the crown ether by the electric field of the dication. Whereas Ba2+ selectivity is observed for 18c6 in aqueous environments, our calculations clearly show that the crown ether in fact binds Mg2+ most strongly in gas phase. Thus, solvation effects appear to strongly influence cation selectivity. Indeed, Ba2+ selectivity is recovered when we consider the competit...
Derivation and validation of equations of motion to predict ball spin upon impact in tennis

Abstract An analytical model of tennis impact was derived in an attempt to describe how the angle of swing and the orientation of the racket head act to impart spin to a tennis ball. For years, coaches and instructors have debated on the contribution of each parameter to spin production. The specific purpose of this investigation was to formulate a theoretical model of impact to examine the importance of various factors involved and how each contributes to the outcome of the tennis impact. Given the pre‐impact parameters from cinematographic data, the post‐impact ball rotation values were determined. The calculated values of ball spin following impact in eight experimental trials were compared with their theoretically determined values. The data suggests that the analytical model may be a good representation of tennis impact and the production of ball spin.
Central Asia: Managing the delicate balance between the “discourse of danger,” the “Great Game,” and regional problem solving

Abstract This article concludes this special issue of Communist and Post-Communist Studies by summarizing the various contributions and noting their commonalties as well as dissimilarities. The primary themes are the various problems in need of solution in Central Asia and the surrounding “neighborhood” (e.g., Afghanistan), including identity-driven conflicts and various ways of handling them. The article reaches out from the academic researchers who have contributed the articles, to policymakers, especially in the U.S., who may be concerned with identifying and solving the problems of Central Asia and its neighborhood, noting the “unintended consequences” that may befall them for what they do or do not do in the region.
Hitting the jackpot or hitting the skids: entertainment, poverty, and the demand for state lotteries.

Abstract. State-sponsored lotteries are a lucrative source of revenue. Despite their low payout rates, lotteries are extremely popular, particularly among low-income citizens. State officials laud the benefits of lottery proceeds and promote the fun and excitement of participation. This entertainment value is one explanation for lottery demand by the poor: individuals with lower incomes substitute lottery play for other entertainment. Alternatively, low-income consumers may view lotteries as a convenient and otherwise rare opportunity for radically improving their standard of living. Bad times may cause desperation, and the desperate may turn to lotteries in an effort to escape hardship. This study tests these competing explanations. We examine lottery sales data from 39 states over 10 years and find a strong and positive relationship between sales and poverty rates. In contrast, we find no relationship between movie ticket sales, another inexpensive form of entertainment, and poverty rates.
Novel Therapies and Their Integration into Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Over the past decade, numerous advances have been made in elucidating the biology of and improving treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). These studies have led to identification of select CLL patient groups that generally have short survival dating from time of treatment or initial disease relapse who benefit from more aggressive therapeutic interventions. Allogeneic transplantation represents the only potentially curative option for CLL, but fully ablative regimens applied in the past have been associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Reduced-intensity preparative regimens has made application of allogeneic transplant to CLL patients much more feasible and increased the number of patients proceeding to this modality. Arising from this has been establishment of guidelines where allogeneic stem cell transplantation should be considered in CLL. Introduction of new targeted therapies with less morbidity, which can produce durable remissions has the potential to redefine where transplantation is initiated in CLL. This review briefly summarizes the field of allogeneic stem cell transplant in CLL and the interface of new therapeutics with this modality.
Effects of histamine type 2-receptor antagonists cimetidine and famotidine on left ventricular systolic function in chronic congestive heart failure

Abstract Twelve patients with stable congestive heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction were enrolled in a double-blind, randomized crossover trial of famotidine, cimetidine and placebo to determine whether histamine type 2 (H 2 ) antagonists adversely affect left ventricular systolic performance. Two-dimensional echocardiograms were obtained at baseline, after 4 days of oral treatment with standard doses of famotidine and cimetidine, and placebo, and at the conclusion of the trial. The baseline mean ejection fraction was 19 ± 7%. The changes in ejection fraction were +2 ± 11% (95% confidence interval [CI] −5 to 9%) with famotidine, +3 ± 10% (95% CI −3 to 10%) with cimetidine, and −3 ± 7% (95% CI −8 to 2%) with placebo. There were no significant differences in changes in ejection fraction among the 3 experimental treatments (p = 0.22; analysis of variance). The changes in end-systolic wall stress/ volume ratios from baseline were +6 ± 21% (95% CI −6 to 18%) for famotidine, +8 ± 29% (95% CI −8 to 25%) for cimetidine, and +2% ± 29% (95% CI −15 to 18%) for placebo (p = 0.69; analysis of variance). No patient had a worsening of symptoms during therapy. Despite previous reports that H 2 antagonists may depress left ventricular systolic function, at standard doses these agents result in no decrease in left ventricular systolic function in patients with chronic congestive heart failure.
A method for calibrating the spatial coordinates of a visual display to high accuracy

High-resolution CRT displays are subject togeometric distortion: lines that are straight in the internal coordinates of the graphics software and hardware are curved when projected onto a plane in the observer’s line of sight. As the available resolution of CRT screens increases, it becomes more difficult to measure and correct for this distortion. We present a simple, highly accurate method for determining the mapping between internal coordinates and the viewing plane. It requires that an observer, using a calibration program, adjust triples of displayed points until they are collinear. A metal straightedge placed between the observer and the screen aids in this judgment. We describe the calibration of an IBM Enhanced Graphics Display in high-resolution mode (350 × 640 pixels), and illustrate how to use the estimated mapping to choose internal coordinates to draw undistorted figures that are accurate to within 0.5 pixel. The method can be used to assess or to correct the accuracy of visual displays. The method is relevant to experiments in spatial vision, spatial perception, perception of dot patterns, and any application in which geometrically accurate stimuli are required.
Freeze-dried acellular dermal matrix graft: effects of rehydration on physical, chemical, and mechanical properties.

Abstract Objectives To test the effect of rehydration time over the range prescribed in the manufacturer's protocol on (1) the biomechanical properties and on (2) the recovery and stabilization of the collagenous matrix of AlloDerm ® . Methods A sterile dish containing warm saline solution was prepared, and samples rehydrated for 5 min. Subsequently, three other dishes with the solution were prepared and samples assigned into three groups according to the total rehydration time: 10 min (G1), 20 min (G2), and 40 min (G3). Uni-axial tensile testing was used to assess the biomechanical properties of the different groups and the control (dry condition). Physico-chemical properties were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) as a function of rehydration time. Results ANOVA revealed a significant change in tensile strength ( p = 0.0269) and in elastic modulus ( p = 0.0306) for AlloDerm following different rehydration times. The lowest tensile strength was in the dry condition, whereas the highest was achieved after a 40 min rehydration. The shortest rehydration periods did not result in a statistically significant ( p > 0.05) change in elastic modulus. However, after 40 min the elastic modulus increased significantly when compared to the shortest periods. FT-IR confirmed the protein backbone recovery of the graft matrix after rehydration. DSC scans of rehydrated samples showed visible shifts in the denaturation temperature to higher values compared to as-received sample (dry) suggesting stronger polymer–water bridge formation, supporting the increase in the biomechanical properties. Significance The current study suggests that there are major changes on the biomechanical properties of the collagenous graft as rehydration time increases, which were also structurally confirmed by the physico-chemical analyses. Clinicians must be aware that the rehydration times of the manufacturer's protocol result in a significant range in mechanical and physico-chemical properties. Therefore, a rehydration time of at least 20 min guarantees not only better handling and mechanical properties but, most importantly, supplies a material that closely resembles the natural tissue.
Antitumor Agents XLVI: In Vitro Effects of Esters of Brusatol, Bisbrusatol, and Related Compounds on Nucleic Acid and Protein Synthesis of P-388 Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells

A series of esters of brusatol, bisbrusatol, and bruceantin were shown to have potent antileukemic activity. Antineoplastic activity was correlated with the ability of the compounds to suppress DNA and protein synthesis in P-388 lymphocytic leukemia cells. Compounds with high T/C% values successfully inhibited DNA polymerase activity and purine synthesis. The ability to inhibit protein synthesis during the elongation process also correlated positively with high antileukemic activity in this series of quassinoids. Dihydrofolate reductase activity and basal and adenosine diphosphate stimulated respiration of P-388 cells were also inhibited.
Effect of strain rate on the fracture of ceramic fibre reinforced glass matrix composites

The effect of strain rate on the fracture behaviour of two ceramic fibre reinforced glass matrix composites was studied. Increasing the strain rate was found to enhance catastrophic failure in both of these composites. This was attributed to the crack deflection and changes in the fibre pullout length as a function of strain rate. Enhanced strain rates were found to decrease the strength, static toughness and fracture energy of the composites. This effect was more pronounced in the case of the coated fibre composites as compared to the uncoated fibre composites. This is because of fibre/matrix isolation, obtained as a result of the coating.
Solvent classification for chromatography and extraction

A new method of solvent classification is proposed based on the five system constants of the solvation parameter model for transfer of neutral compounds from the gas phase to solvent and hierarchical cluster analysis for identifying solvents with similar properties and for organizing them into selectivity groups. This method resulted in the classification of 36 common solvents used in chromatography into seven selectivity groups with four solvents (2,2,2-trifluoroethanol, N,N-dimethylformaide, dimethyl sulfoxide, and water) behaving independently. Except for water, the three organic solvents identified as independent are probably a consequence of the lack of other solvents with similar properties in the data set rather than a demonstration of unique solvent behavior. The classification scheme provides a logical approach for solvent selection as the first step in chromatographic method development. A similar approach using the solvation parameter model suitable for the transfer of neutral compounds between...
Activated α2‐Macroglobulin Promotes Mitogenesis in Rat Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells by a Mechanism that is Independent of Growth‐Factor‐Carrier Activity

Vascular smooth muscle cell (vSMC) proliferation is important in atherosclerosis. We previously demonstrated that methylamine-activated α2-macroglobulin (α2M) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) cause a synergistic proliferative response in quiescent rat aortic vSMCs [Stouffer, G. A., LaMarre, J., Gonias, S. L. & Owens, G. K. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 18340–18344], The first goal of this study was to determine whether the synergy is due to the ability of α2M-methylamine (α2M-MeNH2) to bind TGF-β1 and target the growth factor to vSMCs that express the α22M receptor. Receptor-recognized α2M derivatives without TGF-β1-binding activity, including ternary α1M-trypsin, an 18-kDa proteolytic fragment of the α2M subunit, and the corresponding recombinant receptor-binding fragment (rRBF) increased vSMC [3H]thymidine incorporation and cell number in a manner similar to α2M-MeNH2. In combination with TGF-β1, each α2M derivative caused a synergistic vSMC proliferative response. vSMCs responded comparably when treated with α2M-MeNH2 and TGF-β1 simultaneously or in sequence. Furthermore, α1M-MeNH2–TGF-β1 complexes increased [3H]thymidine incorporation no more than α2M-MeNH2 alone. These results indicate that TGF-β1 binding to α2M is not responsible for the synergistic mitogenic activity. Additional studies were undertaken to determine whether activated α2M independently induces a signal-transduction response in vSMCs. α2M-MeNH2 and rRBF caused a rapid, transient increase in vSMC inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate. This response was pertussis-toxin insensitive. Receptor-associated protein (RAP; 170 nmol/L) inhibited 91–95% of the specific binding of 125I-α2M-MeNH2 and 125I-rRBF to vSMCs; however, RAP did not affect the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate response or the mitogenic response. These studies suggest that vSMCs express a receptor, other than low-density-lipoprotein-receptor-related protein, that transduces a signal in response to activated α1M. This receptor may mediate the mitogenic activity of α2M in vSMC culture.
Incomparability Graphs of Lattices II

In this paper, we study some graphs which are realizable and some which are not realizable as the incomparability graph (denoted by Γ′(L)) of a lattice L with at least two atoms. We prove that for n ≥ 4, the complete graph K n with two horns is realizable as Γ′(L). We also show that the complete graph K 3 with three horns emanating from each of the three vertices is not realizable as Γ′(L), however it is realizable as the zero-divisor graph of L. Also we give a necessary and sufficient condition for a complete bipartite graph with two horns to be realizable as Γ′(L) for some lattice L.
The Relation between Bond Lengths and Dissociation Energies of Carbon−Carbon Bonds

Bond lengths (r, A) of typical carbon−carbon bonds correlate linearly with bond dissociation energies (BDEs) in the full range of single, double, triple, and highly strained bonds, with BDEs ranging from 16 to 230 kcal mol-1. The equation is r = 1.748−0.002371(BDE), tested with 41 typical carbon−carbon bonds, ranging in length from 1.20 to 1.71 A. This sets a maximum bond length limit of 1.75 A for carbon−carbon bonds.
Does context matter? Importing US educational programs to schools overseas

Countries reforming their education systems frequently look outside of their borders for best practice and seek to import policies, practices and programs that appear to incorporate it. In so doing they appear to contribute to the increasing globalization of education. Scholars of comparative education examining this process have focused on the borrowing and lending of educational policy at the decision‐making levels of national education systems. This study examines the importation of programs at the school level. It presents two case studies of the transference of US‐developed programs by independent schools abroad. The first case is that of a teacher leader preparation program developed by a US university for local urban and rural school districts and transferred to an international school system in Colombia. The second case focuses on the adoption and implementation of a US‐designed character education program by an international school in Kuwait with a predominantly Muslim student population. Discuss...
Recombination of Ions In The Chamber of An X-Ray Spectrometer

It is usually assumed that for accurate comparisons of x-ray intensities, the voltage applied to the ionization chamber must be sufficient to reduce the loss of ions by recombination to a fraction of the total number produced, less than the permissible error of measurement. Tests show, however, that under proper conditions the fraction lost may be independent of the total number produced, for any loss up to about 10%. With the chamber used here, this permits accurate comparisions of ionization currents with only 45 volts, instead of the 900 required to reduce the loss to 1%, and thereby minimizes errors due to battery changes. This constancy of the fraction lost, with different currents, probably indicates that the recombination is practically all columnar, as reported by other observers with alpha rays. In the case of x-rays, columnar recombination must be recombination between ions produced by the same photoelectron. This condition must be satisfied best with faint rays, such as are used in x-ray spectrometry. With stronger rays it should break down, and therefore these tests do not indicate anything about ordinary x-ray dosage measurement.
Clinical outcomes after arthroscopic psoas lengthening: the effect of femoral version.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the association between femoral anteversion and clinical outcomes after arthroscopic lengthening of a symptomatic, snapping psoas tendon in young patients. Methods Sixty-seven consecutive patients with symptomatic coxa saltans underwent arthroscopic psoas tendon lengthening through a transcapsular approach during a 3-year period by a single arthroscopic hip surgeon. Demographic and clinical variables were collected. Patients were divided into low/normal femoral version and high femoral version groups and analyzed for association of femoral version with clinical outcomes as measured by the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and Hip Outcome Score (HOS) preoperatively and postoperatively with a minimum of 6 months' follow-up (range, 6 to 24 months). Two-sample t tests were used for data analysis, with P Results Preoperative evaluation showed excessive anteversion (>25°) associated with worse HOS sports subscale scores (26.6 v 50.0 for excessive v low/normal anteversion, P = .013) and no difference in mHHS and HOS activities–of–daily living subscale scores. Postoperative mHHS scores were significantly different (76.9 v 86.1 for excessive v low/normal anteversion, P = .031). No association was noted between clinical outcome measures and any other clinical or demographic variable ( P > .05). Conclusions Patients with increased femoral anteversion may be at greater risk for inferior clinical outcomes after arthroscopic lengthening of a symptomatic, snapping psoas tendon. The psoas tendon may be an important passive and dynamic stabilizer of the hip in these patients, and release may result in a greater alteration of kinematics with high-demand activities, particularly terminal extension and external rotation when the tendon is typically at its highest tension. These results may help surgeons identify which patients may be at risk for inferior clinical outcome after psoas lengthening. Level of Evidence Level IV, therapeutic, case series.
The Square‐to‐Z Flap

. Square-to-Z flaps can sometimes be more useful than O-to-Z flaps. This slight modification of surgical design saves time and may improve the final appearance of some surgical scars. The procedure is described and illustrated.
Negative feedback regulation of Gq signaling by protein kinase C is disrupted by diacylglycerol kinase ζ in COS-7 cells.

Abstract Cellular response to Gq-linked agonists is shaped by regulatory inputs which determine signal strength and duration. Stimulation of phospholipase C-β (PLC-β) lipase activity results in an increase in the levels of diacylglycerol (DAG) and activation of protein kinase C (PKC) activity. PKC has been implicated in the feedback regulation of Gq signaling through actions on PLC-β and phospholipase D (PLD) lipase activity. As PKC activity is modulated by multiple layers of regulation, the physiological impact of PKC on Gq signaling is unclear. PKC signaling can be terminated by diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs) which are regulated in a cell-specific manner. The present studies investigated the contribution of the ubiquitously expressed DGKζ isoform in the regulation of PKC signaling and Gq response in transfected COS-7 cells. Genetic depletion of DGKζ protein with antisense oligonucleotides dramatically reduced DAG metabolism. The sustained increase in PKC signaling was associated with a pronounced inhibition of carbachol-stimulated lipase activity in cells co-transfected with m1 muscarinic receptor, Gαq and either with or without PLC-β1. The data also reveal that sustained activation of PKC alone does not increase cellular PLD1 activity. Therefore, G12-activated RhoA is physiologically important for adequate stimulation of PLD1 activity. These data show that the impact of PKC on Gq signal transduction is determined by the background of cell-specific processes.
Acid-sensing ion channels contribute to the metaboreceptor component of the exercise pressor reflex

The exercise pressor reflex is evoked by both mechanical and metabolic stimuli arising in contracting skeletal muscle. Recently, the blockade of acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) with amiloride and A-316567 attenuated the reflex. Moreover, amiloride had no effect on the mechanoreceptor component of the reflex, prompting us to determine whether ASICs contributed to the metaboreceptor component of the exercise pressor reflex. The metaboreceptor component can be assessed by measuring mean arterial pressure during postcontraction circulatory occlusion when only the metaboreceptors are stimulated. We examined the effects of amiloride (0.5 μg/kg), A-317567 (10 mM, 0.5 ml), and saline (0.5 ml) on the pressor response to and after static contraction while the circulation was occluded in 30 decerebrated cats. Amiloride (n = 11) and A-317567 (n = 7), injected into the arterial supply of the triceps surae muscles, attenuated the pressor responses both to contraction while the circulation was occluded and to postcontraction circulatory occlusion (all, P 0.79). Our findings led us to conclude that ASICs contribute to the metaboreceptor component of the exercise pressor reflex.
Pharmacotherapy for diabetic retinopathy.

Background: Diabetic macular edema (DME) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) continue to cause significant visual loss among patients with diabetes mellitus. In some patients unresponsive to standard laser techniques, as well as improved control of blood pressure and blood sugar, pharmacologic treatment may be beneficial. Although no agent is now approved by the FDA for this purpose, many agents are now being studied in randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Objective: To review concisely the chief pharmacotherapies for diabetic retinopathy available at present. Methods: Literature review and synopsis. Results: Used alone, intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) seems to have some short-term efficacy against DME, but longer-term outcomes (≤ 3 years) using IVTA monotherapy showed a lesser benefit than focal/grid laser treatment in a prospective RCT done by the Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network. Intravitreal anti-VEGF agents have demonstrated some short-term efficacy against DME, and c...
Part I: Participatory ergonomics approach to waste container handling utilizing a multidisciplinary team

This multidisciplinary team approach to waste container handling, developed within the Grassroots Ergonomics process, presents participatory ergonomic interpretations of quantitative and qualitativ...
Quantum optical properties of a dipole emitter coupled to an ɛ-near-zero nanoscale waveguide

We study quantum optical properties of a dipole emitter coupled to a rectangular nanoscale waveguide with dielectric core and silver cladding. We investigate enhanced spontaneous emission and the photonic Lamb shift for emitters whose resonant frequencies are near the waveguide frequency cutoff where the waveguide behaves as an ɛ-near-zero metamaterial. Via a dyadic Green’s function-based field quantization scheme, we calculate the photonic Lamb shift as well as the spontaneous emission enhancement and spectrum. Using realistic parameters for typical quantum emitters, we suggest experimentally realizable schemes to observe relatively large photonic Lamb shifts in waveguides.