cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predicting interdendritic cavity defects during casting solidification

Models for predicting interdendritic cavity defects, from which cracks can easily propagate, are necessary for the advancement of casting processes. This article shows that the location and severity of interdendritic cavity defects can be predicted using methods based on thresholds for interdendritic liquid metal flows. A short review on cavitation phenomena is presented and future directions are identified.
83 MENDELIAN RATIO DISTORTION IN STEROID 21-HYDROXYLASE DEFICIENCY (210HD)

Steroid 21OHD is a monogenic, HLA-linked, recessively inherited condition. The homozygous affected state is not necessarily lethal. Penetrance is complete by criteria of ACTH-stimulated hormonal response. We report a distortion of the expected Mendelian ratio of 1 homozygous affected:2 heterozygous:1 homozygous unaffected amongst families studied with both ACTH-stimulation and HLA-typing. Specifically, we have observed a paucity of homozygous unaffected individuals. The mendelian ratio of 1:2:1 held true if HLA typing alone was considered. However, 50% of offspring predicted by HLA type to be unaffected tested hormonally as heterozygotes, indicating that extremely frequent chromosomal recombination had occurred. Neither paternal nor maternal transmission distortion was observed; nor was haplotype transmission distorted by specific HLA associations. Using hormonal criteria solely, there was a 35% increase over the expected number of heterozygotes (p < .005), resulting in a comparable decrease in homozygous unaffected individuals who had been ACTH-tested. Excluding one proband per family, there was no deviation from the expected proportion of homozygous affected individuals even when deceased sibs were included. Conclusion:: In light of the excess number of heterozygotes and fewer than expected unaffected indi iduals among 21OHD families, it appears that there is some pressure to transmit the haplotype segment bearing the gene for 21OHD. Whether this can be attributed to the 21OHD gene itself remains to be proven.
Sexual assault nurse examiners' application of statutory rape reporting laws

Introduction The objective of this study was to compile a list of current state laws that mandate medical providers' reporting of statutory rape and assess the subjective interpretation of such laws by sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) throughout the country. Methods We contacted an SANE representative from each state by use of the International Association of Forensic Nurses' Web site to obtain information on his or her interpretation of the respective state's statutory rape reporting laws. We compared current state laws and SANE interpretation of such laws with legal interpretation of state laws 5 years previously. Results According to practitioners, the number of states that legislate mandatory reporting has increased over the past 5 years. State law routinely mandates reporting in 26 states and does not mandate reporting in 10 states. In 3 of those 10, the law prohibits reporting. The law requires reporting only under certain conditions in 14 states. Discussion Practitioner interpretation of state laws regarding definitions and mandatory reporting of statutory rape varies widely from state to state, and these laws have changed significantly in many states over the past 5 years. Practitioners wishing to comply with state reporting laws require updated legislation information.
A Flow-Preserving Algorithm for the Time-Cost Trade-Off Problem

Abstract This paper introduces an iterative solution procedure for solving the time-cost trade-off problem (reducing project duration at minimum cost). The solution procedure utilizes a labeling algorithm for locating a minimal cut in the flow network provided by the Phillips and Dessouky algorithm. The minimal cut contains the set of activities to be modified in order to achieve a reduction in the project duration at minimum cost. The main contribution of the proposed procedure is in the labeling of the nodes of the network. At each iteration of the algorithm, labels and flow values are preserved for the succeeding step.
Galanin in the Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System

In the rat median eminence immunoreactive galanin nerve fibers and terminals are present in high numbers in the external layer, and fibers in moderate numbers are seen in the internal layer. The possi
Post-workshop report for the Third International Workshop on Software Engineering for High Performance Computing Applications (SE-HPC 07)

This is the report from a one-day workshop that took place on Saturday, May 26, 2007 as part of the International Conference on Software Engineering in Minneapolis, MN, USA.
Preliminary crystallographic data for cytochromes c' of Rhodopseudomonas capsulata and Rhodospirillum molischianum.

Crystallization conditions and unit cell parameters are reported for cytochromes c′ of Rhodopseudomonas capsulata and Rhodospirillum molischianum. While both proteins naturally occur as dimers having identical subunits of Mr ~ 14,000, R. capsulata was found to crystallize in the hexagonal space group P62 (or its enantiomorph P64) with one subunit per crystallographic asymmetric unit. This result suggests that the subunits of this molecule are related by exact 2-fold symmetry.
Recombination time of quasiparticles in superconducting aluminum

The quasiparticle recombination time ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{\mathcal{r}}$, has been measured in superconducting aluminum films. The temperature dependence of ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{\mathcal{r}}$ at low temperatures was found to be in good agreement with theoretical expectations.
Inhibition of purified bovine milk lipoprotein lipase by propranolol and other β-adrenergic blockers in vitro

Numerous clinical studies have shown that propranolol administration causes hypertriglyceridemia and a decrease in high-density lipoprotein in man. Although these findings have been attributed to diminution of triacylglycerol-rich lipoprotein catabolism by lipoprotein lipase, biochemical studies of the effects of propranolol on lipoprotein lipase activity in vitro have not been previously reported. We purified lipoprotein lipase from raw bovine skimmed milk and examined the effect of propranolol using as substrate phospholipid-stabilized, triolein emulsions containing purified human apolipoprotein C-II. These studies demonstrate that propranolol inhibits lipoprotein lipase activity. The inhibition was found to be noncompetitive with a Ki for propranolol of 0.55 mM. In addition, propranolol was shown to bind to phospholipid-stabilized triolein emulsions reaching local concentrations at the particle surface many times higher than its bulk concentration. Metoprolol, timolol and practolol, which are less hydrophobic than propranolol, were less inhibitory. Atenolol was the weakest inhibitor of purified bovine lipoprotein lipase in vitro.
CALCULATION OF MAGNETIZATION IN ORDERED Ni-Cu ALLOYS

Results for the magnetic and electronic properties of three artificial, ordered geometries for the Ni-Cu alloys indicate three physical mechanisms which suppress Ni magnetization in the alloys. These are as follows: decreased $d$ character of the states at ${E}_{F}$, rounding and loss of structure in the projected Ni density of states, and filling of the $d$ band. These mechanisms are equally applicable to the disordered alloys, and we discuss the modifications introduced by disorder. Results are in good agreement with behavior of the disordered alloys.
Preparation and properties of tetramethyldisiloxydialuminium

When (CH3)4Al2Br2 is treated with (SiH3)2O a white, solid product is formed whose composition is best described as (CH3)6−(x + y)Al2Brx(OSiH3)y, where x varies from 0–1 and y varies from 2–3 depending on experimental conditions. Fractional sublimation of this product in vacuo yields pure (CH3)4Al2(OSiH3)2, which melts in the temperature range 49·9 ± 0·5°. Whether pure or not, the solid product decomposes at room temperature forming silane and other substances, one of which is a slightly volatile, mobile, colourless liquid. Release of silane continues until a colourless glass remains. A preliminary investigation of the rate of decomposition of (CH3)4Al2(OSiH3)2 is described. The proton magnetic resonance spectra of (CH3)4Al2Br2 and (CH3)4Al2(OSiH3)2 are given and discussed in their relation to the structure of the compounds and the mode of the thermal decomposition of the siloxyaluminium compound.
On the solution to a Cauchy principal value integral equation which arises in fracture mechanics

We give the exact solution to a Cauchy principal value integral equation on a split interval. This equation arose in the study of the fracture mechanics problem of an interface crack in tension and shear fields. The method of solution is of independent interest.
Toxothrix trichogenes (Chol.) Beger et Bringmann: the organism and its biology.

Toxothrix trichogenes (Chol.) Beger et Bringmann was found in iron-containing spring water, in tap water, and in a small forest pond of lower Michigan.
Electroporation of tobacco protoplasts with homologous and nonhomologous transformation vectors

Abstract A modified protoplast selection/plating technique was used to quantitate and compare the transformation efficiencies of tobacco NTl protoplasts electroporated with plasmid molecules harboring a chimeric nos-neo gene (pMON213) or both this chimeric gene and a region of homology with the host chromosome (pCPI). The latter plasmid was constructed by cloning the pMON213 EcoR I cassette carrying the nos-neo gene into pNtSS233, a pBR322 derivative harboring a 1.2-kbp piece of Nicotiana tabacum DNA comprising the 5'-end of a gene coding for 1,5-ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase-oxygenase (Rubisco). These plasmids were linearized by restriction endonuclease digestion and electroporated into tobacco protoplasts which were subsequently selected on kanamycin-containing medium. Both plasmids displayed the same transformation efficiency, indicating that the presence of a homologous region in the selectable vector had no influence on the rates of transformation.
PARASITE-INDUCED ALTERATION OF DIURNAL RHYTHMS IN A FRESHWATER SNAIL

The trematode Microphallus sp. alters the behavior of its snail intermediate host, Potamopyrgus antipodarum, in ways that seem to increase transmission to its final host, e.g., waterfowl, and decrease the probability of being eaten by other predators, e.g., fish. The parasite seems to cause the snail to move from the top to the bottom of rocks at about 0900 hr. Waterfowl feed predominantly before 0900 hr, and fish feed predominantly after 0900 hr. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that Microphallus sp.-infected snails exhibit a change in behavior at around 0900 hr by examining their response to light and vertical orientation before and after 0900 hr. Results demonstrated that uninfected snails generally move toward light, oriented downward, and move a greater distance in the light compared with the dark at all times of day. Microphallus sp.-infected snails behaved differently from uninfected snails in the early morning but similarly to uninfected snails in the late morning with regard to downward orientation and distance moved in response to light. Snails infected with parasites other than Microphallus sp. behaved similarly to uninfected snails during both time periods. These results suggest that Microphallus sp. manipulates the behavior of Potamopyrgus sp. by altering rates of movement in response to light and vertical orientation in a manner consistent with the hypothesized 0900-hr shift.
Neuroprotective properties of valproate: potential benefit for AD and tauopathies.

Neuropsychiatric disturbances are extremely common in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and represent integral features of the illness, as well as appropriate targets for therapy. We are interested in designing trials aimed at preventing or delaying the emergence of psychopathology in AD. For symptomatic treatment of agitation, mood stabilizers, particularly sodium valproate, have proved to be beneficial in some patients. Since these effects take several weeks to emerge, we considered that they might be dependent on potentially neuroprotective actions of valproate, such as inhibition of apoptosis and slowing of neurofibrillary tangle formation. In this article we present the rationale for testing the neuroprotective potential of valproate experimentally in mouse models of tauopathy and in a clinical trial of patients with AD who lack psychopathology at baseline. Together, these studies will provide important tests of the hypothesis that valproate, either through inhibition of tau phosphorylation or some other mechanism, is a useful therapeutic agent to modify disease progression in AD.
DEVELOPMENT OF A BRIEF SCALE TO MEASURE ACCULTURATION AMONG JAPANESE AMERICANS

Objective: To introduce a brief scale for measuring the level of acculturation among Japanese Americans and to describe its development and utility. We also evaluate the relationship of demographic characteristics with acculturation in one sample of Japanese Americans. Participants and Data Collection Methods: Pilot survey of a convenience sample of 70 Japanese American adults and survey of a random sample of 1,097 members of Japanese American Community Centers in the greater Los Angeles area. Independent Variables: Demographics and Japanese generation. Dependent Variables: Brief measure of Japanese American Acculturation. Analysis Plan: T-tests and ANOVA for examining unadjusted group differences and multiple regression analysis for examining predictors of acculturation. Results: Our brief measure of acculturation had reproducible factor loadings and reliability (Cronbach's Alpha = .82} in two random samples of Japanese Americans and, in our pretest data, was highly correlated with a longer acculturation instrument commonly used (r = .71). After adjustment for demographics and recruitment site, we found that Japanese American adults under 45 years of age scored up to 9% higher on acculturation than older Japanese Americans and those with incomes above 550,000 per year scored 10% higher on acculturation then those with incomes under that amount. Conclusions: We developed and tested a brief scale for measuring acculturation among Japanese Americans. This scale demonstrates good reliability and validity in two different community samples and holds promise for explaining variation in this ethnic group including the evaluation of the impact of community programs. Such a measure may be especially suited to acculturation evaluation in long, complex survey instruments. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Report on range image understanding workshop, East Lansing, Michigan, March 21-23, 1988

This paper reports on a workshop aimed at identifying research areas for making range image understanding systems useful in industrial and other applications. The major areas in range image understanding and its applications included: early processing, object recognition sensor integration, navigation, inspection, and range sensors.
Preference for a cocaine-associated environment is attenuated by augmented accumbal serotonin in cocaine withdrawn rats

Rationale: Recent studies have found decreased serotonin (5-HT) transmission within the nucleus accumbens following withdrawal from chronic cocaine. Objective: We sought to investigate whether increasing brain 5-HT levels would decrease behavioral responses that occur following cocaine withdrawal, namely increased preference for a cocaine environment and anxiety. Methods: The conditioned place preference and the defensive burying paradigms were used to measure the behavioral responses that occur 1 week following cocaine withdrawal. Results: We show that pharmacological agents that increase 5-HT transmission (sertraline or 5-hydoxytryptophan, 5-HTP) abolish the preference of subchronically cocaine-treated, abstinent rats for a cocaine-associated environment. Similar results were seen when sertraline was microinjected into the nucleus accumbens. Conversely, rats acutely conditioned with cocaine showed an increased preference for a cocaine-associated environment when pretreated with these drugs. Sertraline also decreased the heightened anxiety-like behaviors found in subchronically treated cocaine rats. Conclusions: These results indicate that drugs that augment 5-HT function may reduce the desire for cocaine following cocaine withdrawal, and thus facilitate cocaine abstinence in dependent subjects.
Inelastic electron-electron scattering times in silicon inversion layers

Abstract From magnetoconductance measurements on silicon inversion layers interpreted with current localization theory, electron inelastic scattering times τ i have been determined as a function of electron surface density n s and substrate bias. We find that τ i has a T −1 dependence suggesting electron-electron scattering modified by Coulomb impurities. The n s and substrate bias results are not in agreement with our expectations.
Risk for Acute Confusion in Sensory-Impaired, Rural, Long-Term-Care Elders

Acute confusion is a common geriatric syndrome in long-term care (LTC) elders with prevalence rates of 10% to 39%. Sensory impairment, specifically vision and hearing impairment, is even more common in LTC, with prevalence rates of 40% to 90%. The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk relationship between sensory impairment and the development of acute confusion in LTC elders. Each resident (N = 114) underwent sensory screening and then was followed for 28 days to monitor for the onset of acute confusion. Twenty residents (17.5%) developed acute confusion, 60 residents (52.6%) were found to be visually impaired, 49 (44.1%) were hearing impaired, and 28 (24.6%) were found to be dually impaired. Significant relationships between vision impairment, odds ratio (OR) = 3.67, confidence interval (CI) (1.13, 11.92), and dual sensory impairment, OR = 2.88, CI (1.04, 8.26), with the development of acute confusion were identified.
Effect of combinations of insulin, glucose and scopolamine on radial arm maze performance

Abstract Previous research has shown that glucose is an effective agent in facilitating memory performance and in attenuating scopolamine-induced amnesia. Although insulin has not been shown to facilitate unimpaired memory, a previous study has demonstrated that insulin can also attenuate scopolamine-degraded memory. The present study was designed to determine how different combinations of insulin, glucose and scopolamine affect memory. It involved nine rats whose memory was assessed through performance in a win-shift radial arm maze task under different drug treatments. A 2 × 2 × 2 (insulin × glucose × scopolamine) within-subjects design with a 5-h drug test interval was employed. Scopolamine disrupted memory performance, and both glucose and insulin counteracted this disruption. Combining the glucose and insulin treatments did not increase their ability to attenuate scopolamine deficits but slightly decreased this effect. Glucose tended to enhance memory, even in the absence of scopolamine, whereas insulin had no effect on memory in the absence of scopolamine. Blood glucose levels were measured and did not indicate changes caused by drug treatments. The memory effects may have been due to the acetylcholine-agonist actions of glucose and insulin, an interpretation consistent with previous research findings.
The resonance flourescence of polarized radiation—II. Scattering in the normal Zeeman triplet (J = 0–J″ = 1)

Abstract The general resonance flourescence scattering function discussed in the previous paper by House is reduced in the present paper to apply specifically to the normal Zeeman triplet. All coherence terms produced by the overlap of levels in weak magnetic fields are retained and calculations are given to illustrate the frequency dependent as well as the frequency independent scattering functions. Equations are derived, again for both the frequency dependent and independent cases, for the angle of maximum linear polarization and the degree of maximum polarization for a single scattering. From this, one may understand the importance of coherence in the interpretation of the measurement of weak magnetic fields, as for example, in solar prominences. The influence of the finite solid angle of the source of radiation (the solar disk) and of the contribution of scattering elements along the line of sight are also considered. Calculations demonstrate how measurements of linear polarization are expected to be influenced particularly by the finite solid angle. Application of the equations to the “strong field” case of the scattering of coronal forbidden lines is also discussed.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF A HORSE ANTIPOLIOMYELITIC SERUM.

Through the kindness of Dr. W. H. Park we have been enabled to study a horse antipoliomyelitic serum. This preparation has been supplied us in three forms: citrated blood plasma, serum, and globulin concentrate. We have tested these preparations in vitro and in vivo for inactivating or neutralizing or, to use perhaps a better term, antiviral effects against a constant, potent, filtrate virus of poliomyelitis. The preparations exhibited these effects when combined in vitro. Their action in this respect appears to be greater and more constant than that found by Stewart and Haselbauer for the Pettit antipoliomyelitic horse serum. On the other hand, in vivo tests carried out by us were less successful. In comparison with the constancy of action, under given conditions, of convalescent monkey and human sera, the antipoliomyelitic horse serum displayed striking irregularity, and certain preparations were devoid of protective power. The precise nature of the inactivating substances in the horse antiserum and their relation to the corresponding substances in convalescent sera have still, to be determined. As far as one absorption test carried out by us indicates, precipitin does not play a major role in the inactivating process. When an active globulin concentrate was filtered through Berkefeld candles, it lost its in vitro inactivating power. This is not true of convalescent sera in the native state. No tests have, however, been made with globulin concentrates from such sera. The experiments described in this paper raise the question whether, therapeutically considered, the antipoliomyelitic horse serum should be regarded as an exact equivalent of, and hence employed as a perfect substitute for, convalescent serum. This question can only be answered by further experiment and observation.
Pipelined algorithms to detect cheating in long-term grid computations

This paper studies pipelined algorithms for protecting distributed grid computations from cheating participants, who wish to be rewarded for tasks they receive but don't perform. We present improved cheater detection algorithms that utilize natural delays that exist in long-term grid computations. In particular, we partition the sequence of grid tasks into two interleaved sequences of task rounds, and we show how to use those rounds to devise the first general-purpose scheme that can catch all cheaters, even when cheaters collude. The main idea of this algorithm might at first seem counter-intuitive-we have the participants check each other's work. A naive implementation of this approach would, of course, be susceptible to collusion attacks, but we show that by, adapting efficient solutions to the parallel processor diagnosis problem, we can tolerate collusions of lazy cheaters, even if the number of such cheaters is a fraction of the total number of participants. We also include a simple economic analysis of cheaters in grid computations and a parameterization of the main deterrent that can be used against them-the probability of being caught.
The effects of space flight on some rat liver enzymes regulating carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.

The effects of space flight conditions on the activities of certain enzymes regulating carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in rat liver are investigated in an attempt to account for the losses in body weight observed during space flight despite preflight caloric consumption. Liver samples were analyzed for the activities of 32 cytosolic and microsomal enzymes as well as hepatic glycogen and individual fatty acid levels for ground control rats and rats flown on board the Cosmos 936 biosatellite under normal space flight conditions and in centrifuges which were sacrificed upon recovery or 25 days after recovery. Significant decreases in the activities of glycogen phosphorylase, alpha-glycerol phosphate acyl transferase, diglyceride acyl transferase, aconitase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase and an increase in palmitoyl CoA desaturase are found in the flight stationary relative to the flight contrifuged rats upon recovery, with all enzymes showing alterations returning to normal values 25 days postflight. The flight stationary group is also observed to be characterized by more than twice the amount of liver glycogen of the flight centrifuged group as well as a significant increase in the ratio of palmitic to palmitoleic acid. Results thus indicate metabolic changes which may be involved in the mechanism of weight loss during weightlessness, and demonstrate the equivalence of centrifugation during space flight to terrestrial gravity.
One‐Electron Oxidation and Sensitivity of Uric Acid in On‐Line Electrochemistry and in Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

The sensitivity of detection of uric acid (H2U) in positive ion mode electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI MS) was enhanced by uric acid oxidation during electrospray ionization. With a carrier solution of pH 6.3>pKa1=5.4 of H2U, protonated unoxidized uric acid [H2U+H]+ (m/z 169) was detected together with the protonated uric acid dimer [2H2U+H]+ (m/z 337). The dimer likely forms by 1e− oxidation of urate (HU−) followed by rapid radical dimerization. A covalent structure of the dimer was verified by H/D exchange experiments. Efficiency of 2e−, 2H+ oxidation of uric acid is low during ESI in pH 6.3 carrier solution and improves when a low on-line electrochemical cell voltage is floated on the high voltage of the ES in on-line electrochemistry ESI MS (EC/ESI MS). The intensity of the uric acid dimer decreases with an increase in the low applied voltage. In a carrier solution with 0.1 M KOH, pH 12.7>pKa2=9.8 of H2U, allantoin (Allnt) (MW 158.04), the final 2e−, 2H+ oxidation product of uric acid, was detected as a potassium complex [K(Allnt)+K]+ (m/z 235) and the [2H2U+H]+ dimer was not detected. In direct ESI MS analysis of 1000-fold diluted urine [NaHU+H]+ (pKsp NaHU=4.6) was detected in 40/60 (vol%) water/methanol, 1 mM NH4Ac, pH ca. 6.3 carrier solution. A new configuration of the ESI MS instrument with a cone-shaped capillary inlet significantly enhanced sensitivity in ESI and EC/ESI MS measurements of uric acid.
An adaptive cross-layer scheduler for improved QoS support of multiclass data services on wireless systems

With the rapid growth of the Internet and other Internet protocol-related applications, wireless systems have shifted toward supporting a wider variety of data services. This has placed an enormous strain on the already tight capacity of wireless systems. Many improvements have been made at the link layer in second- and third-generation wireless systems. However, further improvements in packet data admission, scheduling, and policing are necessary to maximize capacity and user satisfaction. Of the three, efficient scheduling has the greatest impact on increased system capacity. In addition, proper scheduling can greatly improve user satisfaction. We introduce an adaptive cross-layer packet scheduler, which outperforms popular packet schedulers with respect to both packet delay and user throughput.
Language attrition. Theoretical perspectives

Language attrition. Theoretical perspectives (Studies in Bilingualism, Vol. 33), edited by Barbara Kpke, Monika S. Schmid, Merel Keijzer, and Susan Dostert, Amsterdam, John Benjamins, 2007, vi + 24...
Poisson Regression Analysis Under Alternate Sampling Strategies

Poisson processes where the mean is a function of known exogenous variables and a vector of unknown parameters have been widely studied and used. However, the existing theory of estimation of the parameters has assumed a random sampling process. This paper extends the estimation theory to two other sampling processes: grouped dependent variables and sampling where the likelihood of an observation is proportional to the endogenous variable. The likelihood functions for the former case are proven to be globally concave for three functions of interest. In the latter case termed proportionate endogenous sampling or PES, the likelihood function appears intractable but an alternate, computationally simple estimator is found. This estimator is computed by subtracting one from each dependent variable in the PES and treating it as though it were randomly drawn. It is consistent and asymptotically normal, though less efficient than the maximum likelihood estimator. Some numerical examples on simulated data are conducted to explore the effects of grouping and proportionate endogenous sampling on the estimated coefficients.
A general law for direct sunlight penetration

Abstract Under the assumption that foliage area distributions may be adequately approximated by probability distributions, a general law for the prediction of direct sunlight penetration of crop canopies is derived. It is shown that the Poisson (Beer's) law is a special case of this more general law. Area and transect problems are treated, and stochastic variation in leaf sizes is considered. Numerical studies are presented which indicate that the Poisson law is not adequate in all cases for the prediction of sunlight penetration and that stochastic variation in leaf sizes is of less consequence than average leaf size and/or leaf-area index.
Grandmothers Raising Grandchildren With Disabilities: Sources of Support and Family Quality of Life

Sources of support and quality of life of 50 grandmother-headed families raising grandchildren with and without disabilities were examined. Comparative analyses revealed significant differences bet...
Irreversible Collapse of Montmorillonite

A number of variable charge montmorillonites were prepared. One portion of each sample was extracted with ammonium chloride, while a second portion was first saturated with calcium chloride, washed, and then extracted with ammonium chloride. In both cases, the number of cations displaced by ammonium chloride was determined. The number of calcium ions displaced from Ca-saturated samples was higher than the sum of the number of lithium and calcium ions displaced from Li, Ca-mixed samples. The differences, increasing towards Li-rich end of the series are assumed to be due to protons liberated from the reaction of lithium ions with either structural hydroxyl groups or residual water molecules, as has been shown by other investigators. Supplementary X-ray and i.r. data lend support to this idea.
Increased incidence of rare codon clusters at 5' and 3' gene termini: implications for function

The process of translation can be affected by the use of rare versus common codons within the mRNA transcript. Here, we show that rare codons are enriched at the 5' and 3' termini of genes from E. coli and other prokaryotes. Genes predicted to be secreted show significant enrichment in 5' rare codon clusters, but not 3' rare codon clusters. Surprisingly, no correlation between 5' mRNA structure and rare codon usage was observed. Potential functional roles for the enrichment of rare codons at terminal positions are explored.
Reflected Shock Bifurcation in a Square Channel

We examine the bifurcation of a reflected shock in a three-dimensional, square channel through numerical simulations using a distributed memory parallel adaptive mesh refinement, Navier-Stokes solver with multicomponent equation of state and microscopic transport. The three-dimensional, rather than axisymmetric, geometry introduces considerable complexity into the flow structures, particularly in the vicinity of the corners. Spanwise cross-sections show the boundary layer growth is significantly reduced in the corner regions, where the shape of the turbulent jet and recirculation regions are modified. This appears to be consistent with existing experimental studies which report the boundary layer in the corner region is deformed and the propagation velocity is reduced. A pair of triple points and a diagonally-oriented Mach reflection with shear layers directed towards the corner apex are also observed in the spanwise view.
The orphanin FQ system: an emerging target for the management of pain?

The successful treatment of severe and chronic pain remains a primary goal of the physician and for this purpose clinicians continue to rely on extracts prepared from the opium poppy. Unfortunately morphine, the most important of the analgesic opiates, produces several undesirable side effects including respiratory depression, constipation, the development of tolerance and physical dependence. Consequently, a considerable effort has been made over the years to identify non-opiate means for controlling pain. One of the most exciting developments in pain management came almost 20 years ago, with the demonstration that relief could be achieved by the electrical stimulation of discrete midbrain regions, in particular the periaqueductal gray and the periventricular hypothalamus. 49 These findings lent support to the concept that in the central nervous system there exists specific circuitry that modulates not only senses but also painful stimuli. It is generally accepted that these circuits have supraspinal and spinal components whose neurones communicate with one another via neurotransmitters, which include the biogenic amines (dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin) and the opioid peptides (metand leu-enkephalin, -endorphin and dynorphin). These neurotransmitters all directly influence neuronal physiology by first activating cell surface proteins referred to as receptors. The noncovalent interaction between a neurotransmitter, or ligand, and its cognate receptor causes a conformational change in the receptor molecule. This change constitutes a signal that can then be detected on the intracellular face of the cell by a complex of GTP binding proteins, or simply G proteins, that interact with second messenger systems to modulate enzyme activity (for example, adenylyl cyclase and protein kinase C), ion-channel conductance (potassium and calcium) and gene expression. Although excellent targets for pharmacological manipulation, the opiate receptors are difficult proteins to work with biochemically because they are typically found in low concentration and they are labile, losing their activity upon purification away from a lipid environment. Cloning of the delta opioid receptor was therefore hailed as a major breakthrough when the work was published in 1992, and resulted in a burst of molecular studies to identify and express related receptors. 30
Numerical Simulation of Natural Convection Heating of Canned Thick Viscous Liquid Food Products

Sterilization of a thick viscous liquid food in a metal can sitting in an upright position and heated from the side wall (Tw= 394 K) only in a still retort was simulated. The liquid had temperature dependent viscosity but constant specific heat and thermal conductivity. Equations of mass, motion and energy conservation for an axisymmetric case were solved and plots of temperature, velocity and streamlines were provided for natural convection heating and isotherms compared with pure conduction contour plots. Results indicated that the natural convection moved the slowest heating point to the bottom center. The bottom of the can heated up slower than predicted by pure conduction heating. The magnitude of the axial velocity was found to be of the order of 10−5 m/sec which varied with time and position in the can.
Behavioral and neurobiological implications of sex‐determining factors in Drosophila

The function of the central nervous system as it controls sex-specific behaviors in Drosophila has been studied with renewed intensity, in the context of genetic factors that influence the development of sexually differentiated aspects of this insect. Three categories of genetic variations that cause anomalies in courtship and mating behaviors are discussed: (1) mutants isolated with regard to courtship defects, of which putatively courtship-specific variants such as the fruitless mutant are a subset; (2) general behavioral and neurological variants (including sensory and learning mutants), whose defects include subnormal reproductive performance; and (3) mutations of genes within the sex-determination regulatory hierarchy of Drosophila, the analysis of which has included studies of reproductive behavior. Recent studies of mutations in two of these categories have provided new insights into the control of neuronally based aspects of sex-specific behavior. The doublesex gene, the final factor acting in the sex-determination hierarchy, had been previously thought to regulate all aspects of sexual differentiation. Yet, it has been recently shown that doublesex does not control at least one neuronally-determined feature of sex-specific anatomy—a muscle in the male's abdomen, whose normal development is, however, dependent on the action of fruitless. These considerations prompted us to examine further (and in some cases re-examine) the influences exerted by sex-determination hierarchy genes on behavior. Our results—notably those obtained from assessments of doublesex mutations' effects on general reproductive actions and on a particular component of the courtship sequence (male “singing” behavior)—lead to the suggestion that there is a previously unrecognized branch within the sexdetermination hierarchy, which controls the differentiation of the male- and female- specific phenotypes of Drosophila. This new branch separates from the doublesex-related one immediately before the action of that gene (just after fransformer and transformer-2) and appears to control as least some aspects of neuronally determined sexual differentiation of males. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Screening for Toxoplasma gondii-Regulated Transcriptional Responses in Lipopolysaccharide-Activated Macrophages

Toxoplasma gondii-infected macrophages are blocked in production of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-12 (IL-12) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) upon activation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Here, we used pathway-focused cDNA arrays to identify additional T. gondii-regulated transcriptional responses. Parasite infection decreased 57 (inclusive of IL-12 and TNF-alpha) and increased expression of 7 of 77 LPS-activated cytokine and cytokine-related genes. Interestingly, we found that the LPS-induced transcriptional response of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was synergistically increased by T. gondii, results that we validated by conventional reverse transcription-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Importantly, although the parasite exerted disparate effects in LPS-signaling leading to TNF-alpha versus IL-10 production, both responses required functional Toll-like receptor 4. We suggest that these effects represent parasite defense mechanisms to avoid or delay induction of antimicrobial activity and/or T-cell-mediated immunity during Toxoplasma infection.
Sensitivity analysis and optimal design in charge transport problems

The focus of this paper is the accurate and efficient determination of sensitivities of electrostatic potential and charge density in charge transport problems, and the use of these sensitivities to carry out optimal design. Direct differentiations of the boundary integral formulation of Poisson's equation for charge conservation and of the non-linear partial differential equation for current continuity are carried out to obtain equations satisfied by the sensitivities. Methods for solving the sensitivity equations are discussed. A numerical implementation of the methods is validated through several examples. It is demonstrated that the Design Sensitivity Coefficients (DSCs) of the quantities of interest in charge transport are obtained accurately and that optimal design problems can be solved efficiently using these DSCs.
Head-butting as an Early Indicator of Reproductive Disinhibition in the Termite Zootermopsis nevadensis

In lower termites, functionally sterile larval helpers are totipotent—capable of becoming reproductively active with the loss of their colony’s king or queen. Full reproductive development may take several weeks, but initiation of this developmental response most likely occurs shortly after colony members detect when a reproductive-specific signal is missing. We investigated the early response of termite helpers to the removal of their king and queen in the basal termite species Zootermopsis nevadensis. Within 6–12 h after reproductives were removed, helpers displayed an increase in head-butting—a behavior associated with dominance in other termite species as well as in closely related roaches. The loss of just one reproductive, either the king or queen, was also sufficient to cause an increase in head-butting. We did not find evidence, however, that this response was sex-specific: males and females were equally likely to increase head-butting independent of the sex of the reproductive that was removed. Finally, we discovered that reproductive-specific compounds present on the cuticle of king and queen termites were also present in their feces, but the presence of the feces did not seem sufficient to inhibit the increased head-butting after the reproductives were removed. Collectively, these results indicate that termite workers readily detect the loss of reproductives in their colony and that they at least initially respond in a non sex-specific manner.
Bilateral inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor mastoiditis.

Background Inflammatory myoblastic tumors (IMTs) are rare, mesenchymal neoplasms most commonly located in areas of previous inflammation. In the temporal bone, these tumors typically present as solitary, space-occupying lesions that clinically resemble chronic otitis media. Methods We present a case of bilateral IMTs with facial nerve involvement, sigmoid sinus thrombosis, leptomeningeal enhancement, and seizures. Results/Conclusion This case demonstrates the need for a high index of suspicion of IMT when imaging reveals bilateral mastoid opacification. These tumors are more aggressive than their orbital counterparts and require multimodality therapy to prevent recurrence and alleviate severe neurotologic symptoms. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2015
Plate tectonics and basin subsidence history

Tectonic setting exerts fi rst-order control on basin formation as refl ected in basin subsidence history. While our approach ignores the effects of fl exural loading and eustatic sea-level change, consistency of backstripped subsidence histories (i.e., with local loading effects of sediment removed) suggests consistent tectonic driving mechanisms in each tectonic setting, with the possible exception of forearc basins. Based on published subsidence curves and open-fi le stratigraphic data, we show the subsidence characteristics of passive margins, strike-slip basins, intracontinental basins, foreland basins, and forearc basins. Passive margin subsidence is characterized by two stages, rapid initial, synrift subsidence and slow post-rift thermal subsidence, with increasing subsidence rates toward the adjacent ocean basin. Subsidence of intracontinental basins is similar in magnitude to that seen in passive margin settings, but the former is generally slower, longer lived, and lacks initial subsidence. Long-lived subsidence for many intracontinental basins is consistent with cooling following thermal perturbation of thick lithosphere found beneath old parts of continents. Basins associated with strike-slip faults are usually short lived with very rapid subsidence. Changes in local stress regimes as strike-slip faults evolve, and migrate over time, coupled with three-dimensional heat loss in these small basins likely explain this subsidence pattern. Foreland basin subsidence rates refl ect the fl exural response to episodic thrust loading. Resultant subsidence curves are punctuated by convex-up (accelerating) segments. Forearc basins have the least consistent subsidence patterns. Subsidence histories of these basins are complex and may refl ect multiple driving mechanisms of subsidence in forearc settings. Second-order deviations in subsidence suggest reactivation or superimposed tectonic events in many basin settings. The effects of eustatic sea-level change may also explain some deviations in curves. For many of these settings, subsidence histories are suffi ciently distinctive to be used to help determine tectonic setting of ancient basin deposits.
Influence of power on quality of emulsions prepared by ultrasound

The effect of ultrasonic power on a mineral oil-surfactant-water emulsion system was demonstrated. An optimum amount of energy was required to produce the best emulsion. Exceeding the optimum requirements produced coalescence phenomena. The best emulsions resulted with optimal surfactant concentrations, at optimal HLB values, and at highest power levels. In the emulsions studied, the HLB and surfactant parameters were more important than the power parameters.
Yoga for Asthma

This article reviews relevant research on the possible benefits of Yoga interventions for individuals with asthma. Research suggests that Yoga, especially when practiced with inclusion of the whole of its traditional techniques (including asana, pranayama, meditation, and relaxation) provides benefit for asthma sufferers. The article then offers suggestions for Yoga teachers and Yoga therapists who would like to develop a Yoga practice for students with asthma. Specific pranayama and asana practices are described. The recommended practices will help students with asthma develop a new awareness of how physical posture and breathing techniques can minimize the frequency and severity of asthma episodes.
Spatial Reasoning: Improvement of Imagery and Abilities in Sophomore Organic Chemistry. Perspective to Enhance Student Learning.

Spatial reasoning has become a demanded skill for students pursuing a science emphasis to compete with the dynamic growth of our professional society. The ability to reason spatially includes explorations in memory recollection and problem solving capabilities as well as critical thinking and reasoning skills. With these advancements, educational requirements seek reassurance in that efficient learning skills can be embedded in science curricula. Organic chemistry is a source in which abilities such as spatial reasoning can benefit students intending to thrive in scientific communities. This study of instructional development in organic chemistry seeks to determine if spatial reasoning can be improved by exposing stereo-chemical techniques from the Purdue Visualization Rotation Test (ROT) to students who have not taken organic chemistry and have science oriented educational goals. We sought to determine two purposes: to gauge how much spatial reasoning a student possessed prior to the course, and to test if spatial ability can be improved in students who present low ability over the span of the three month course. Results show significance in that spatial reasoning can be improved through statistical analysis in students who showed below average qualities.
Sodium Thiosulfate Treatment of Soft -Tissue Calcifications in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease:

Five patients on maintenance hemo dialysis for more than five years, who had tumoral calcifications, were treated by sodium thiosulfate for three to IS months. Four patients with periarticular and ...