cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Virginia Woolf's Revision of a Shavian Tradition

As Virginia Woolf has assessed in "Women and Fiction," "men are the arbiters of ... convention, as they have established an order of values in life" (145); therefore, women writers, particularly those who are tackling primarily male-dominated genres, necessarily have a context, a "convention," to evaluate and, often, to "re -vise" according to each writer's own (female) agenda. Such a female literary tradition was at the heart of Woolf 's own literary career, and, as can be seen in numerous examples of contemporary feminist literary theory, such a woman-centered canon is still sought, still in the process of evolution. Although theorists such as Helene Cixous are prepared to disregard such strongholds of male influence and can see beyond such a revisionist period in women's writing, the time when a woman can truly "write herself" (Cixous 875) without any nod to a literary past appears distant, if not entirely unrealistic. Cixous suggests that the "future must no longer be determined by the past" (875), but often reevaluation can and does ultimately suggest a future radically different from the past it might echo. In her essay "When We Dead Awaken: Writing as Re -Vision," Adrienne Rich defines literary revision as "the act of looking back, of seeing with fresh eyes, of entering an old text from a new critical direction" (18). As women writers forged ahead in search of their own literary traditions, each had, it seems, her revisionary task to accomplish. As Woolf set out to write Freshwater: A Comedy, the only dramatic text she wrote, she certainly had a history of theater with which to contend. Though women had, of course, written plays prior to 1923, when Freshwater was first drafted, such plays were few and not often successful. A woman's connection to the theater had long been tainted by her sex, and actresses and women within theater circles were often construed as no
Tolerance for spacetime singularities

A common reaction to the Penrose-Hawking singularity theorems is that Einstein's general theory of relativity contains the seeds of its own destruction. This attitude is critically examined. A more tolerant attitude toward spacetime singularities is recommended.
Compartmental body composition of cancer patients by measurement of total body nitrogen, potassium, and water

Quantitative measurement was made of body composition in patients with several forms of neoplastic disease. Total body nitrogen was determined by means of the prompt gamma neutron activation technique; total body potassium was measured with the use of a whole body counter. The mass and protein content of the muscle compartment and nonmuscle lean tissue were estimated by application of the technique of compartmental analysis. Total body water, determined simultaneously with the use of tritium label, provided a measure of lean body mass. From these data, the body fat can be inferred. The prompt gamma neutron activation and whole body counting techniques represent a considerable advance over the balance and radioisotope techniques used in earlier studies. The new techniques make possible sequential studies over prolonged periods of time with a considerable degree of accuracy. The loss of body weight by patients with solid tumors consisted primarily of the loss of muscle mass and body fat. Even in severe wasting, the patients appear to retain significant amounts of body fat. It is the skeletal muscle which is predominantly lost; the visceral life-supporting system is, to a considerable extent, spared. The nonmuscle tissue including the visceral fraction did not change in this study, and actually appeared to increase in size when comparison was made with the normal contrast population. The loss of total body water was slight in the cancer patients studied.
Investigation of Spectral Screening Techniques for Independent Component Analysis Based Hyperspectral Image Processing

This paper investigates the effect of spectral screening on processing hyperspectral data through Independent Component Analysis (ICA). ICA is a multivariate data analysis method producing components that are statistically independent. In the context of the linear mixture model, the endmember abundances can be viewed as independent components, the endmembers forming the columns of the mixing matrix. In essence, the ICA processing can be seen as an alternative solution to endmember unmixing. In the context of feature extraction, each feature will be represented by an independent component, thus leading to maximum separability among features. Spectral screening is defined as the reduction of the image cube to a subset of representative pixel vectors with the goal of achieving a considerable speedup in further processing. At the base of spectral screening are the measure used to assess the similarity between two pixel vectors and a threshold value. Two pixel vectors are similar if the value yielded by the similarity measure is smaller than the threshold and dissimilar otherwise. The spectral screened subset has to be formed such that any two vectors in the subset are dissimilar and for any vector in the original image cube there is a similar vector in the subset. The method we present uses spectral angle as distance measure. A necessary condition for the success of spectral screening is that the result of processing the reduced subset can be extended to the entire data. Intuitively, a larger subset would lead to increased accuracy. However, the overhead introduced by the spectral screening is directly proportional to the subset size. Our investigation has focused on finding the “ideal” threshold value that maximizes both the accuracy and the speedup. The practical effectiveness of the methods was tested on HYDICE data. The results indicate that considerable speedup is obtained without a considerable loss of accuracy. The presented method leads to a significant increase in computational efficiency allowing faster processing of hyperspectral images.
Limitations of Claims and Registry Data in Surgical Oncology Research

Studies based on large population-based data sets, such as administrative claims data and tumor registry data, have become increasingly common in surgical oncology research. These data sets can be acquired relatively easily, and they offer larger sample sizes and improved generalizability compared with institutional data. There are, however, significant limitations that must be considered in the analysis and interpretation of such data. Invalid conclusions can result when insufficient attention is paid to issues such as data quality and depth, potential sources of bias, missing data, type I error, and the assessment of statistical significance. This article reviews some important limitations of population-based data sets and the methods used to analyze them. The candid reporting of these issues in the literature and an increased awareness among surgical oncologists of these limitations will ensure that population-based studies in the surgical oncology literature achieve high standards of methodological quality and clinical utility.
Automating the uplink process for planetary missions

The dual challenges of increased capability along with lower costs are addressed with regard to flight operations. A program has been formulated to take advantage of advances in software and hardware in order to design, and prototype where indicated, a set of tools which can be applied to the building of a more productive uplink process for NASA missions that are envisaged for the the next decade. Techniques such as object-oriented programming, expert systems, natural-language parsing, interactive graphics, and parallel processing are employed in the quest for increased productivity. The paper is organized hierarchically with the level of 'goal', 'objectives' and 'tasks'. A brief review of the uplink process is included.
Bupropion SR vs. methylphenidate vs. placebo for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults.

Despite the increasing recognition of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults, there are few controlled trials demonstrating the effectiveness of pharmacological treatments, particularly with nonstimulants. One controlled trial found bupropion SR more effective than placebo in the treatment of ADHD adults. We conducted a controlled study to contrast the effectiveness of bupropion SR and methylphenidate to placebo in ADHD adults. A randomized, double-blind, parallel design was used in this study. Following a 7-day placebo lead-in, 30 ADHD (DSM-IV) subjects (18-60 years old) were randomized to bupropion, methylphenidate, or placebo for 7 weeks. Methylphenidate was titrated over 1 week to a maximum dose of 0.9 mg/kg/d divided into 3 doses while bupropion was titrated over 2 weeks to a maximum dose of 200 mg A.M. and 100 mg P.M. Response rates based on Clinical Global Impression improvement ratings in patients receiving bupropion, methylphenidate, and placebo were 64, 50, and 27%, respectively. The difference in response rates between active treatment and placebo was not statistically significant (p = 0.14). Neuropsychological testing demonstrated trends favoring drug treatment on measures of immediate recall and verbal fluency. While bupropion SR may be a viable clinical alternative for adults with ADHD, further investigation is needed.
The specific and endogenous mitotic inhibitor of lymphocytes (chalone).

Abstract Aqueous extracts of various lymphoid tissues, but not of non-lymphoid tissues, contain a species-non-specific but cell-specific inhibitor of the transformation and DNA synthesis of PHA-stimulated human lymphocytes which is apparently not cytotoxic and is reversible. This activity is found in similar molecular weight fractions from pure lymphocytes obtained in culture and hence appears to be endogenous to the lymphocyte itself. This specific and endogenous mitotic inhibitor does not appear to be a result of competitive lectin-binding, thymidine pool size dilution, phosphorylation, destruction of thymidine, or the direct immunosuppressive effects of thymidine upon the lymphocytes themselves. Rather, it appears to be a result of the effects of a protein contained in the crude ultrafiltrate from lymphoid tissues whose properties correspond to those originally described by Bullough & Laurence for a ‘chalone’. The chalone activity from thymus appears to be specific for T cells rather than B cells.
Fusion heating in a deuterium-tritium tokamak plasma.

Evidence for fusion heating in the core of a deuterium-tritium (D-T) tokamak plasma is reported for the first time. Electron temperature profile data were analyzed for differences between D-T, D, and T plasmas in the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor. Data from D and D-T plasmas with similar plasma parameters were averaged to minimize isotopic effects. The electron temperature in D-T plasmas was systematically higher than in D or T plasmas. The temperature difference between D-T and D plasmas with similar confinement times is consistent with alpha-particle heating of electrons.
6.1.2 Understanding the Implementation of System Architectures in the Context of Distributed Cognition

Current system architectures are typically attributed to the technical leader that holds the formal title of “System Architect” and for larger projects there may be a team of system architects. There is no question that this person (or team) is responsible for the development and management of the system architecture. However, a theory in cognitive science known as “Distributed Cognition” challenges the notion that a single person or a single team can entirely understand the implemented architecture. This theory can aid in our understanding of system architectures and thus improve the probability of a successful implementation of an architecture. When applied to the domain of systems engineering, distributed cognition theory suggests that a system architecture can only be fully understood through the collective minds of the group that develops and implements the architecture. In fact, the group's understanding likely diverges from the understanding of any single individual. This helps explain why architectures implemented by a large group commonly deviate from the vision held by the lead system architect(s). After system architectures are understood as a distributed “system of knowledge”, a systems engineer can actively manage the interfaces between distributed units of knowledge. The goal is to ensure that the collective system of understanding is a healthy system, and thereby increase the probability of success that the implemented architecture will meet the needs in the problem space. This paper summarizes current research in distributed cognition and applies that research to form heuristics that can be leveraged when developing and implementing an architecture.
One-Dimensional and Two-Dimensional Coupling of CO Adsorbed on Stepped, Platinum Surfaces

Abstract Recent experimental data on infrared absorption by CO molecules adsorbed on two, stepped platinum surfaces reveal two bands. At low coverage, a single band appears from CO adsorbed on atoms lying along the steps. From the data and model calculation we see that the appearance of the higher wavenumber band, at intermediate coverage, signals the onset of two-dimensional island growth. The single, higher wavenumber band at high coverage results from an in-phase vibration mode of atoms on both step and terrace sites. Isolated molecules on terrace, step, and kink sites have wavenumbers of 2074, 2065, and 2060 cm−1 respectively.
Incorporation of acetylcholinesterase into synaptic vesicles is associated with blockade of synaptic transmission.

THE transmission of nerve signals across cholinergic synapses involves the presynaptic release (or secretion) of acetylcholine (ACh) which, by acting on specific sites of the postsynaptic membrane, induces changes in the postsynaptic transmembrane potential. According to the vesicle hypothesis1, ACh is packed inside synaptic vesicles which release their contents from the nerve terminal on contact with the presynaptic membrane. Although there is abundant experimental evidence supporting the hypothesis2, some papers question its validity3–6. The most important alternative hypothesis postulates that the releasable ACh is free in the cytoplasm3–6 and that the vesicles are a secondary reservoir containing ‘bound’ ACh.
Perils in the Use of Linkage Disequilibrium for Fine Gene Mapping: Simple Insights from Population Genetics

It is generally believed that genome-wide association (GWA) studies stand a good chance for finding susceptibility genes for common complex diseases. Although the results thus far have been somewhat promising, there are still many inherent difficulties and many initial associations do not get replicated. The common strategy in GWA studies has been that of selecting the most statistically significant single nucleotide polymorphisms with the hope that these will be very physically close to causal variants because of strong linkage disequilibrium (LD). Using simple ideas from population genetics, this commentary explains why this strategy can be misleading. It argues that there is an intrinsic problem in the way LD is currently used for fine-mapping. This is because most of the metrics that are currently used to measure LD are inadequate, as they do not take into account evolutionary variables that shape the LD structure of the human genome. Recent research on another metric, based on Malecot's model for isolation by distance, holds considerable promise for GWA studies and merits more serious consideration by geneticists. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2008;17(12):3292–7)
Toward in vivo nanoscale communication networks: utilizing an active network architecture

A safe and reliable in vivo nanoscale communication network will be of great benefit for medical diagnosis and monitoring as well as medical implant communication. This review article provides a brief introduction to nanoscale and molecular networking in general and provides opinions on the role of active networking for in vivo nanoscale information transport. While there are many in vivo communication mechanisms that can be leveraged, for example, forms of cell signaling, gap junctions, calcium and ion signaling, and circulatory borne communication, this review examines two in particular: molecular motor transport and neuronal information communication. Molecular motors transport molecules representing information and neural coding operates by means of the action potential; these mechanisms are reviewed within the theoretical framework of an active network. This review suggests that an active networking paradigm is necessary at the nanoscale along with a new communication constraint, namely, minimizing the communication impact upon the living environment. The goal is to assemble efficient nanoscale and molecular communication channels while minimizing disruption to the host organism.
A new two-dimensional system for the separation of amino acids on paper.

Abstract A two-dimensional method for separating all of the amino acids generally encountered in protein hydrolyzates, except cystine, is described.
Range estimation algorithms comparison in simulated 3-D flash LADAR data

Range estimation algorithms have been applied to simulated 3-D flash laser radar data to test for accuracy and bias. Simulated data is modeled after hit mode performance of the Advanced Scientific Concepts 3-D flash laser radar camera. Hit mode is a mode of operation that stores buffered samples into memory only after a set number of photoelectrons have been observed by the detector. In hit mode, waveforms may not be centered within the range gate and may not contain the true peak of original waveform. Under these conditions traditional range estimation techniques could prove ineffective. A peak estimator, matched filter, and maximum likelihood estimator were tested for performance as waveforms shift position within the range gate. This paper suggests the best scenario for implementing each algorithm and shows the overall effectiveness of the matched filter when incorporated in the time domain. 1000 trials with noise were conducted for each waveform position and performance was judged based on mean square error and standard deviation of the range estimations.
Instrumental Heart Rate Responses and Visual Perception: A Preliminary Study

Five subjects (Ss) were trained to raise and lower their heart rates over a number of operant conditioning sessions. Geometric forms were superimposed upon the conditioned stimuli during the final operant training session. For the conditioning trials, Ss detected significantly more tachistoscopic stimuli during heart rate deceleration trials than during heart rate acceleration trials. During extinction trials, there were no differences in tachistoscopic recognition between acceleration and deceleration trials. The results are discussed in terms of Lacey's hypothesis concerning the instrumental effect of heart rate change on environmental attention.
Stochastic chaos versus deterministic chaos: a case for analog versus digital embodiment of devices for pattern recognition

Development of chaotic dynamics has been dominated by deterministic models that are stationary, autonomous, low-dimensional, and noise-free. Chaos in brains emerges from noisy synaptic interactions of immense numbers of neurons that stimulate and yet constrain each other, creating macroscopic order from microscopic disorder. Brains are nonstationary, unstable, constantly bombarded by sensory input, changing in functional dimension, and sustained by noise, yet they display a high degree of reliability and metastability in the proper conditions. Simulations of brain dynamics with digital models encounter the limits expressed in numerical instabilities imposed by finite approximations, attractor crowding, collapse into quasiperiodic solutions, the lack of shadowing trajectories, and the curse of "infinite sensitivity to the initial conditions"Analog embodiments may take advantage of the use of continuous variables, highly parallel integrative operations, and reliance on internally generated noise that is not only unavoidable but essential for normal function. The major unsolved problem in applying the theory of stochastic chaos is generating, controlling and measuring global chaotic attractors with multiple wings.
A close proximity self-aligned shadow mask for sputter deposition onto a membrane or cavity

In this paper we report on the fabrication of a close proximity shadow mask designed for sputtering into cavities or onto the back surface of freestanding silicon nitride (SiNx) membranes. Sputtering into a well-defined area on a fragile surface is difficult since sputter deposition through a shadow mask separated from the deposition surface typically results in spreading of the deposited material. The area of spreading beyond the desired area of deposition depends on the vertical separation between the shadow mask and the surface of the membrane. In our design, a high degree of accuracy (±5 µm) in the separation (25 µm) between the shadow mask and the deposition surface is achieved. The shadow mask is made from SiNx-coated silicon wafers, using potassium hydroxide (KOH) etching on both sides of the wafer. The design rules chosen to maintain accuracy of the fit between the shadow mask and the deposition surface over various etch conditions, fabrication and methods used for convex-corner compensation and the alignment to the wafer crystal axis, which also contribute to an accurate fit, are discussed. Spreading of deposited material due to sputtering is limited to about 40 µm when this shadow mask is used.
Retrospective evaluation of a paediatric intensivist-led flexible bronchoscopy service

To demonstrate the diagnostic yield, therapeutic role and safety of flexible bronchoscopy via an intensivist-led service in critically ill children. Retrospective chart review. Regional paediatric intensive care unit. One hundred forty-eight flexible bronchoscopies were performed by two intensivists on 134 patients (median age 16.5 months) over a 2.5-year period. Eighty-eight percent of patients required mechanical ventilation, and 22% were receiving inotropes. Case mix included general (n = 77), cardiac surgery (n = 18), cardiology (n = 13), ear-nose-and-throat surgery (n = 17), oncology (n = 8) and renal (n = 1). The indication for bronchoscopy was defined a priori according to one of four categories: suspected upper airway disease (n = 32); lower airway disease (n = 70); investigation of pulmonary disease (n = 25); and extubation failure (n = 21). Bronchoscopy was generally performed soon after PICU admission, at a median time of 1.5 days for the former three categories, and 4 days for extubation failure group. A positive yield from bronchoscopy (diagnosis that explained the clinical condition or influenced patient management) was present in 113 of 148 (76%) procedures, varying within groups from 44% (pulmonary disease) to 90% (extubation failure).Ten percent of patients developed a fall in oxygen saturations > 20% during the procedure and 17% required a bolus of at least 10 ml/kg of 0.9% saline for hypotension. Critically ill patients with respiratory problems may benefit from a PICU-led bronchoscopy service as the yield for positive bronchoscopic finding is high, particularly for upper airway problems or extubation failure.
Alicyclobacillus vulcanalis sp. nov., a thermophilic, acidophilic bacterium isolated from Coso Hot Springs, California, USA

A thermo-acidophilic Gram-positive bacterium, strain CsHg2T, which grows aerobically at 35–65 °C (optimum 55 °C) and at pH 2·0–6·0 (optimum 4·0), was isolated from a geothermal pool located in Coso Hot Springs in the Mojave Desert, California, USA. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that this bacterium was most closely related to the type strains of Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius (97·8 % identity) and Alicyclobacillus sendaiensis (96·9 %), three Japanese strains denoted as UZ-1, KHA-31 and MIH 332 (96·1–96·5 %) and Alicyclobacillus genomic species FR-6 (96·3 %). Phenotypic characteristics including temperature and pH optima, G+C composition, acid production from a variety of carbon sources and sensitivity to different metal salts distinguished CsHg2T from A. acidocaldarius, A. sendaiensis and FR-6. The cell lipid membrane was composed mainly of ω-cyclohexyl fatty acid, consistent with membranes from other Alicyclobacillus species. Very low DNA–DNA hybridization values between CsHg2T and the type strains of Alicyclobacillus indicate that CsHg2T represents a distinct species. On the basis of these results, the name Alicyclobacillus vulcanalis sp. nov. is proposed for this organism. The type strain is CsHg2T (ATCC BAA-915T=DSM 16176T).
Microbial flora and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns from dogs with otitis media

This study evaluated the middle ear microbial flora and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns from dogs with otitis media. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns were obtained on 164 micro-organisms from 107 ears of 82 dogs with otitis media that presented to Louisiana State University over a 12-year period. The most common micro-organisms isolated were Staphylococcus intermedius (26.8%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (23.2%), β-haemolytic streptococcus (12.8%), Proteus spp. (11.0%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (8.5%). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed on all isolates employing the disk diffusion method (Kirby-Bauer). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing for enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin was performed on 10 of the 18 P. aeruginosa isolates found to be resistant to enrofloxacin on Kirby-Bauer. Of these isolates, 6 (60%) were susceptible, 1 (10%) was intermediate and 3 (30%) were resistant to enrofloxacin. Eight of these isolates (80%) were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, 1 (10%) showed intermediate susceptibility and 1 (10%) was resistant.
New prospects for an old enzyme: mammalian cytochrome c is tyrosine-phosphorylated in vivo.

Mammalian cytochrome c (Cyt c) has two primary functions: transfer of electrons from the bc1 complex to cytochrome c oxidase (COX) as part of the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), and participation in type II apoptosis. Several studies have indicated that components of the ETC can be phosphorylated, and we have recently shown that the Cyt c electron acceptor COX is phosphorylated on Tyr-304 of subunit I in liver upon activation of the cAMP-dependent pathway, leading to strong enzyme inhibition. However, covalent modification of Cyt c through phosphorylation has not yet been reported. We have isolated Cyt c from cow heart under conditions that preserve the physiological in vivo phosphorylation status. Western analysis with an anti-phosphotyrosine antibody indicated tyrosine phosphorylation. The site of phosphorylation was definitively assigned by immobilized metal affinity chromatography/nano-liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (IMAC/nano-LC/ ESI-MS) to Tyr-97, one of the four tyrosine residues present in Cyt c. The phosphorylated tyrosine is part of a motif that contains five residues identical to the tyrosine phosphorylation site in COX subunit I. Spectral analysis revealed that the characteristic 695 nm absorption band is shifted to 687 nm and reversed after treatment with alkaline phosphatase. This band results from the Met-80-heme iron bond, and its shift might indicate changes in the catalytic heme crevice. In vivo phosphorylated Cyt c shows enhanced sigmoidal kinetics with COX, and half-maximal turnover is observed at a Cyt c substrate concentration of 5.5 IM compared to 2.5 IM for alkaline phosphatase-treated Cyt c. Possible consequences of Tyr-97 phosphorylation with respect to cardiolipin binding and of location of Tyr-97 in close proximity to Lys-7, a crucial residue for interaction with Apaf-1 during apoptosis, are discussed.
Effects of feeding cracked corn and concentrate protein pellets on broiler growth performance

Primary Audience: Feed Mill Managers and Nutritionists SUMMARY Typically, in a vertically integrated poultry (broiler or turkey) operation, maintaining adequate feed manufacturing production proves to be a challenge. To evaluate an alternative management strategy, 2 studies were conducted to examine the effects of feeding broilers cracked corn and a concentrated pellet on broiler growth performance from 0 to 41 d of age. Cracked corn (0, 25, 50, 75, or 100%) was used to replace the corn fraction in the diet for all 3 stages of growth. Cracked corn and concentrate pellets were blended together to be isonitrogenous and isocaloric among all treatments, so only feed form would differ. Experiment 1 diets included a control (0% cracked corn) and experimental diets (25, 50, 75, or 100%) in which cracked corn directly replaced the ground corn fraction. Overall (0 to 41 d), a linear decrease (P < 0.001) for ADG and ADFI and a linear increase (P < 0.003) for FCR was observed as cracked corn levels increased. In experiment 2, a “step-up” feeding program of cracked corn was evaluated with dietary treatments including the following: 1) control (0% cracked corn throughout feeding), 2) 0% cracked corn (0 to 17 d) and 25% (18 to 41 d), 3) 0% cracked corn (0 to 17 d) and 50% (18 to 41 d), 4) 25% cracked corn (0 to 41 d), and 5) 50% cracked corn (0 to 41 d). Overall (0 to 41 d), ADG for treatment 1, 2, and 4 was greater than 3 and 5 (P < 0.05). Feed conversion ratio was superior for treatments 2 and 4 (P < 0.05) in comparison with treatments 3 and 5. Up to 25% of the dietary corn can be fed to the broiler as cracked corn from 0 to 41 d without a negative response on growth performance.
The erection mechanism of the ratite penis

The erection mechanism of the penis in most vertebrates is blood vascular. A major evolutionary transition occurred in birds, where the erection mechanism changed from blood vascular to lymphatic. Within birds, however, the erection mechanism of the ratite penis has remained unknown. Early work suggested that the erection mechanism in ostrich Struthio camelus was blood vascular while no description existed for the emu Dromaius novaehollandiae or the rhea Rhea americana. Because the penis in all other described birds has a lymphatic erection mechanism, clarifying that the erection mechanism of ratites is of great importance to understanding one of the major evolutionary transitions of penis morphology within amniotes. Here, we show that the erection mechanism of ratites is lymphatic, confirming that the evolutionary transition to lymphatic erection occurred in the last common ancestor of Aves.
An Improved ASIC/SOC Design Methodology for Quick Design Convergence

An improved ASIC/SOC design methodology for quick design convergence is described in this paper. Unlike the conventional ASIC/SOC design methodologies focused on automation, our new methodology focuses on streamlining the ASIC/SOC flow's timing consuming steps by applying our expert's BKM's (best known methodology) to accelerate design convergence. It enabled us to shorten the time consuming phases dramatically with relatively minimal efforts. This resulted in smooth execution across different phases of the design and enabled us to meet the aggressive tape-out schedule
Relative importance of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and nitric oxide- dependent cytotoxicity in contractile dysfunction of rejecting murine cardiac allografts

Background. Previous in vitro studies have suggested that both cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)-mediated and non-CTL-mediated myocyte lysis occur during murine cardiac heterotopic allograft rejection, but the relative importance of these injury mechanisms on myocardial function is not established. We therefore compared the in vivo effects of depletion of CTL and inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) on contractility of the rejecting heart. Methods. Syngeneic (BALB/c into BALB/c) and allogeneic (BALB/c into C57/B16) heterotopic abdominal cardiac transplants were performed. In some of the allogeneic transplants, CD8 + lymphocytes were depleted by intraperitoneal injection of anti-CD8 monoclonal antibody. NOS inhibition was accomplished by continuous infusion of N G -monomethyl-L-arginine via a subcutaneous osmotic pump. Five days after transplantation, the abdominal cavity was opened and the transplanted heart exposed. Base to apex developed force was measured during spontaneous beating at a diastolic stretch of 4 g by placing a suture through the apex of the heart and attaching it to a strain gauge. Effects of interventions on graft survival were determined by recording the days required for loss of palpable graft contractions. Results. Allogeneic hearts showed a significant reduction in systolic force compared to non-rejecting syngeneic hearts. Depletion of CD8 + cells improved contractility significantly relative to non-depleted allogeneic hearts, but contractility remained significantly reduced relative to syngeneic hearts. Developed force in allogeneic hearts was also improved by NOS inhibition (P<0.01), and N G -monomethyl-L-arginine infusion slightly prolonged graft survival. Conclusion. Both CTL-mediated and NOS-dependent (possibly macrophage-mediated) mechanisms contribute to contractile dysfunction during early cardiac allograft rejection in this model. However, NOS inhibition combined with CTL depletion only slightly prolongs graft survival in this model.
DYNAMIC RESPONSE OF MERCER SLOUGH PEAT

The behavior of a peat from Mercer Slough in Bellevue, Wash., was investigated by a program of field and laboratory testing. The peat was very soft, very weak, and highly compressible. Water contents averaged approximately 600% and in situ shear wave velocities were measured at 12–30 m/s. Cyclic triaxial and resonant column testing indicated that the modulus reduction and damping behavior of Mercer Slough peat was significantly influenced by strain amplitude and effective confining pressure and was weakly influenced by loading frequency and overconsolidation ratio. Comparison of the behavior of Mercer Slough peat with other highly organic soils suggests a trend of increasing linearity and decreasing damping with increasing effective confining pressure. Site response analyses indicated strong response at low frequencies with spectral shapes that differ significantly from the standard shapes implied by current codes.
Distal radius fractures: a comparison of tension band wiring versus ulnar outrigger external fixation for the management of distal radioulnar instability.

Purpose To retrospectively compare the results of immobilization of the forearm in supination with the results of tension band fixation of the ulnar styloid in 35 patients with distal radius fractures, fracture of the base of the ulnar styloid, and distal radioulnar joint instability treated with external fixation. Methods Thirty-five patients with fractures of the distal radius, fracture of the base of the ulnar styloid, and unstable distal radioulnar joint had external fixation with adjunctive percutaneous pins and allograft bone to reduce and stabilize the distal radius fracture anatomically. Only those patients with an associated ulnar styloid base fracture displaced over 2 mm with gross distal radioulnar joint instability relative to the contralateral wrist were included in this study. Group 1 consisted of patients in whom the ulnar styloid base fracture was treated with conventional tension band wiring techniques. Group 2 patients were treated with a supplemental outrigger from the external fixator to the ulna and locked in 60° of forearm supination. Groups 1 and 2 had an average follow-up period of 40 and 36 months, respectively. Results Group 2 had significantly better supination than group 1. In terms of functional outcome it was found that there was no significant difference for the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and the Gartland and Werley scores between the 2 treatment groups. There was a lower rate of complications and fewer secondary procedures were required in group 2. The incidence of distal ulna resection was 4 of the 35 patients (2 patients in each group). Conclusions Our results indicate that patients in whom the ulnar styloid can be reduced and maintained in supination can be treated effectively with fixed supination outrigger external fixation. This method resulted in a statistically significant improvement in supination and a lower rate of distal radioulnar joint complications, and it required fewer secondary procedures.
Growth and Properties of Doped Scandia Crystals

Single crystals of Sc2O3 and Ln:Sc2O3 (Ln = Er, Yb, Ho, Tm) have been synthesized hydrothermally. Some initial spectroscopic properties of these interesting materials are discussed.
Systems of set constraints with negative constraints are NEXPTIME-complete

A system of set constraints is a system of expressions E/spl sube/F where E and F describe sets of ground terms over a ranked alphabet. Aiken et al. (1993) classified the complexity of such systems. In A. aiken et al. (1993), it was shown that if negative constraints Enot/spl sube/F were allowed, then the problem as decidable. This was done by reduction to a Diophantine problem, the nonlinear reachability problem, which was shown to be decidable. We show that nonlinear reachability is NP-complete. By bounding the reduction of A. aiken et al. (1993), we conclude that systems of set constraints allowing negative constraints are NEXPTIME-complete. >
High-resolution density-gradient analysis of sea urchin polysomes.

Abstract Mature unfertilized sea urchin eggs exhibit minimal incorporation of radioactive protein precursors into 5–10% trichloroacetic acid (TCA)-precipitable material (Nakano and Monroy 1958; Hultin 1961; Stafford et al. , 1964; MacKintosh and Bell 1967). One might therefore expect polysomes to be scarce or non-existent in unfertilized eggs. Indeed, recent studies have failed to convincingly demonstrate (by RNase-sensitivity of 260 mμ absorbance and radioactivity) their presence in mature sea urchin eggs before fertilization (Hultin 1964; Malkin et al. 1964; Stafford et al. 1964). The marked rise in protein synthesis which immediately follows fertilization of sea urchin eggs, however, is not mirrored by obvious changes in optical density profiles (Hultin 1964; Malkin et al. 1964; Stafford et al. 1964; Stavy and Gross 1967); nor is polysomal material from older embryos resolved into discrete sedimentation classes (Monroy and Tyler 1963; Hultin 1964; Siekevitz et al. 1966). We now report a method for ribosome-polysome isolation which is consistently effective in yielding sedimentation profiles highly resolved by 260 mμ absorbancy and radioactivity, whether at 15 minutes or 15 hours after fertilization. We also show that the isolation of intact sea urchin polysomes is sensitive to KCl concentrations.
Satisficing, Selection, and the Innovating Remnant

I. Introduction: Managerialism, behavioralism, and the competitive model, 237. — II. Firm decision processes and the "as if" argument, 240. — III. Selection, decision rules, and competitive outcomes, 244. — IV. A competitive industry: Orthodox analysis, 248. — V. A competitive industry: Assumptions of the selection model, 249. — VI. Proof of the theorem, 254. — VII. Extensions and generalizations, 257. — VIII. Schumpeterian competition, 259. — IX. Concluding comments, 260. — Appendix: Proof of the existence of competitive equilibrium, 261.
A note on universal sets for classes of countable G_δ'S

In a recent article [2] D. G. Larman and C. A. Rogers proved the following two results in Descriptive Set Theory (where R = the space of real numbers): (1) There is no analytic set in the plane R^2, which is universal for the countable closed subsets of R; (2) there is no Borel set in R^2, which is universal for the countable G_δ subsets of R. Recall that, if b is a class of subsets of a space X, a set U ⊆ X × X is called universal for C if (ɑ) for each x є X, U_x = def {y : (x, y) U} є C, and (b) for each A є C there is an x such that A = U_x. (Larman and Rogers have also shown that in both cases coanalytic universal sets exist.)
SHOREBIRD HABITAT USE AND NEST-SITE SELECTION IN THE PLAYA LAKES REGION

Abstract Wetlands in the Playa Lakes Region (PLR) provide important habitats for wintering waterfowl, cranes, and both migrant and breeding shorebirds. Playa Lakes Region wetlands experience naturally fluctuating hydroperiods but are exposed to anthropogenic stresses, which are exacerbated during summer and may influence PLR wet-land occupancy and selection by breeding shorebirds. We examined wetland-scale habitat use and nest-site selection of the 4 dominant shorebirds (American avocets [Recurvirostra americana], black-necked stilts [Himantopus mexicanus], killdeer [Charadrius vociferus], snowy plovers [C. alexandrinus]) nesting in playas, saline lakes, and in both created and riparian wetlands in the PLR of Texas, USA. All 4 species nested in saline lakes. Only avocets and killdeer nested in playas, and snowy plovers nested in riparian wetlands. No nests were found in created wetlands. Wetland habitat changed (P < 0.001) during the breeding season, while water habitats generally decreased. Used (i.e., s...
Sequential changes in total and free testosterone and androstenedione in plasma during spontaneous and Clomid-induced ovulatory cycles.

Abstract The pattern of plasma androgen levels was assessed in 5 oligomenorrheic women being treated with clomiphene citrate (Clomid). The changes during the Clomid-induced ovulatory cycles were compared with those during the spontaneous menstrual cycle in 4 normal women. Plasma testosterone (T), androstenedione (A), and an index of the free plasma T levels were measured by competitive protein-binding assay. No significant fluctuations in plasma T or A were apparent during the normal menstrual cycle. In contrast, during 4 of the 5 Clomid-treated cycles increased plasma A and T concentrations were demonstrated within 3 to 10 days following cessation of Clomid administration, the absolute concentrations often exceeding 2 S.D. of the normal mean levels. The elevated T levels following Clomid were seemingly due to an increased T production since the free T levels were also increased. The results demonstrate that Clomid induces hyperandrogenism in some oligomenorrheic women. This increase, most likely reflecting ovarian production and secretion, may interfere with normal ovulatory function.
Growth Rate Patterns Which Produce Curvature and Implications for the Physiology of the Blue Light Response

Since the observations of Darwin (1897), it has been well known that plants bend in response to oriented light. The purpose of this paper is to show the growth rate patterns which produce observed curvatures. An equation (Silk and Erickson 1978) will be derived and tested to relate elemental curvature ot elemental growth rate distributions.
Constructivism in Museums: How Museums Create Meaningful Learning Environments

The role of museums has changed from merely exhibiting objects to interpreting them and finally to encouraging visitor interpretation. Museums give visitors firsthand experiences with objects that can involve looking, handling, interacting, or actually experimenting. Constructivist theory holds that prior knowledge is of primary importance. Learners come to us with a wealth of knowledge already organized. Many people repeatedly reject new information because they cannot find a way to mesh it comfortably with their pre-existing knowledge. One tool that has developed out of constructivist theory and that may also help explain it is concept mapping. Concept maps are arranged hierarchically, with the most important or superordinate concept at the top of the map. Semantic networks do not require that representations be words; they may also be such things as images, text, and sound. Museums may be the perfect environments in which to use constructivist theory and observe meaningful learning.
Association of Breastfeeding and the Federal Poverty Level: National Survey of Family Growth, 2011–2013

Breastfeeding is strongly endorsed in the Healthy People 2020 goals; however, there remain many disparities in breastfeeding prevalence. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between breastfeeding and the Federal Poverty Level in the United States. Data from 5,397 women in the National Survey of Family Growth 2011–2013 survey were included in this study. The data were analyzed for descriptive features and logistic regressions of the Federal Poverty Level on breastfeeding. There were 64.1% of women who reported breastfeeding. Over one-third (35.2%) of women reported having a household income of 0–99% of the Federal Poverty Level. There were 15.2% of women who reported an income of 400% and above the Federal Poverty Level. With statistical adjustment for maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, parity, preterm birth, birth weight, insurance, and dwelling, the Federal Poverty Level was not significantly associated with breastfeeding. In this recent survey of mothers, Federal Poverty Level was not shown to be a significant factor in breastfeeding.
Concept Paper on Credit Rating Agency Incentives

This note provides a general concept of how the conflict of interest between credit rating agencies and financial entities that hire them to rate issues can be severed. The concept stresses addressing the conflict with minimal government regulation. Only a skeleton concept is offered -- the goal is to spark a debate and encourage creative solutions.
Ordered and Robust Ionic Surface Networks from Weakly Interacting Carboxyl Building Blocks

Application of self-assembly strategies to technologically relevant materials requires robust interactions between complex organic building blocks at surfaces. However, complex molecules of practical interest are not necessarily in registry with a surface, which may impede self-organization into a desired architecture. In this work, we demonstrate that for an organic system in which neither adsorbate–substrate nor adsorbate–adsorbate interactions are sufficient to yield self-assembly by the organic species alone, a self-organized network possessing high thermal stability is achieved via an ionic bonding protocol. The self-assembled ionic surface network is formed by reaction of tetra-anionic carboxylate species and sodium chloride and achieves a degree of thermal stability not previously demonstrated in self-assembled organic nanostructures at metal surfaces. Thermal stability at 180 °C is demonstrated by molecular-resolution, high-temperature imaging of the supramolecular architectures for several hours....
Effect of Triiodothyronine on the Expression of T Cell Markers and Immune Function in Thyroidectomized White Leghorn Chickens

Hypothyroid K-strain chickens were produced by neonatal thyroidectomy and treatment with 6-propyl-2-thiouracil. Thyroidectomized birds were given 0, 1.5, 4.5, 15, or 45 micrograms/kg body wt of triiodothyronine (T3) by daily injection. At 5 weeks of age, thymocytes were prepared for flow cytometric analysis of CT-1a, CD3, CD4, and CD8 expression. Sham-operated birds had the smallest proportion of CT-1a+ cells and the brightest CT-1a+ cells. Unsupplemented thyroidectomized birds presented an inverse picture, while T3-treated thyroidectomized birds were intermediate. Fewer and less brightly labeled CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cells were associated with sham-operated birds or with higher levels of T3 replacement. Low levels (1.5 microgram/kg body wt) or no T3 treatment produced a greater proportion of positive, highly fluorescent cells. The ratios of CD4+ to CD8+ thymocytes were increased (P less than or equal to 0.05) by T3 supplementation. Functionally, thyroidectomy produced a decrease in mitogen-stimulated proliferation of peripheral blood lymphocytes. This effect was ameliorated by T3 supplementation. Further, thyroidectomy produced an elevation of plasma growth hormone concentrations. These results suggest that thyroid factors and alterations of thymic status significantly affect the generation of specific thymus-derived lymphocyte populations and their functional capabilities, perhaps due to changes in the thymic microenvironment. These alterations may have important consequences for the development of immunocompetence and disease resistance in chickens.