cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Monte Carlo Transport Calculations and Analysis for Reactor Pressure Vessel Neutron Fluence

The application of Monte Carlo methods for reactor pressure vessel (RPV) neutron fluence calculations is examined. As many commercial nuclear light water reactors approach the end of their design lifetime, it is of great consequence that reactor operators and regulators be able to characterize the structural integrity of the RPV accurately for financial reasons, as well as safety reasons, due to the possibility of plant life extensions. The Monte Carlo method, which offers explicit three-dimensional geometric representation and continuous energy and angular simulation, is well suited for this task. A model of the Three Mile Island unit 1 reactor is presented for determination of RPV fluence; Monte Carlo (MCNP) and deterministic (DORT) results are compared for this application; and numerous issues related to performing these calculations are examined. Synthesized three-dimensional deterministic models are observed to produce results that are comparable to those of Monte Carlo methods, provided the two methods utilize the same cross-section libraries. Continuous energy Monte Carlo methods are shown to predict more (15 to 20%) high-energy neutrons in the RPV than deterministic methods.
Observation and Characterization of the CH3S(O)CH-and CH3S(O)CH-·H2O Carbene Anions by Photoelectron Imaging and Photofragment Spectroscopy

We report the observation of the CH3S(O)CH− and CH3S(O)CH−·H2O carbene anions formed upon overall H2+ abstraction from dimethyl sulfoxide by O−. Photoelectron spectroscopy reveals singlet and triplet carbenes for the remaining neutral, with the singlet state assigned as the ground state. Although some formation of the distonic CH2S(O)CH2− radical anion is also expected, no conclusive evidence of the presence of this isomer is found. The photoelectron spectrum of HCSO− is also reported for the first time. Photofragmentation of CH3S(O)CH− with 532 nm light reveals two main types of anionic products: a dominant HCSO− fragment, resulting from methyl elimination, and a less intense SO− product. For the monohydrated anion, an additional SO−·H2O fragment is observed. Intriguingly, both the SO−·H2O and SO− products are produced with much higher yields in the fragmentation of CH3S(O)CH−·H2O, compared to the SO− yield from the dissociation of the bare CH3S(O)CH− anion. Two possible pathways are proposed as likely m...
Strategic Ambiguity and Crisis Apologia: The Impact of Audiences' Interpretations of Mixed Messages

Based on the perspectives of strategic ambiguity and organizational reputation, the current study examines the effects of mixed crisis response strategies, which adopt seemingly contradictory messa...
Outcomes of vedolizumab therapy in patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis: a multi-center study.

Immune-mediated diarrhea and colitis (IMDC) can limit immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) treatment, which is efficacious for advanced malignancies. Steroids and infliximab are commonly used to treat it. These agents induce systemic immunosuppression, with its associated morbidity. We assessed clinical outcomes of vedolizumab as an alternative treatment for IMDC. We analyzed a retrospective case series of adults who had IMDC refractory to steroids and/or infliximab and received vedolizumab from 12/2016 through 04/2018. Twenty-eight patients were included. The median time from ICI therapy to IMDC onset was 10 weeks. Fifteen patients (54%) had grade 2 and 13 (46%) had grade 3 or 4 IMDC. Mucosal ulceration was present in 8 patients (29%), and nonulcerative inflammation was present in 13 (46%). All patients had features of active histologic inflammation; 14 (50%) had features of chronicity, and 10 (36%) had features of microscopic colitis concurrently. The mean duration of steroid therapy was 96 days (standard deviation 74 days). Nine patients received infliximab in addition to steroids and their IMDC was refractory to it. Among these, the duration of steroid use was 131 days compared with 85 days in patients who did not receive infliximab. Likewise, patients who failed infliximab before vedolizumab had a clinical success rate of 67% compared to 95% for patients that did not receive infliximab. The median number of vedolizumab infusions was 3 (interquartile range 1–4). The mean duration of follow-up was 15 months. Twenty-four patients (86%) achieved and sustained clinical remission. Repeat endoscopic evaluation was performed in 17 patients. Endoscopic remission was attained in 7 (54%) of the 13 patients who had abnormal endoscopic findings initially; 5/17 patients (29%) reached histologic remission as well. Vedolizumab can be appropriate for the treatment of steroid-refractory IMDC, with favorable outcomes and a good safety profile.
Resolution of equivocal parathyroid scintigraphic readings

143 Objectives Previously we reported that iterative reconstruction (I) helps resolve equivocal (Eq) readings for phantom data simulating 99mTc-MIBI parathyroid SPECT (Medical Physics 2007;34:4792-7). This investigation was conducted to determine if this is also the case in the clinical setting. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of data for 106 pts who underwent parathyroid imaging, including pinhole early & late MIBI neck & 99mTcO4- thyroid imaging, image subtraction, & MIBI SPECT/CT. SPECT/CT data were reconstructed both by conventional filtered backprojection (F) and by resolution-recovery-corrected I. An experienced reader graded lesion detection certainty on a 5-point scale (0=definitely normal, 1=probably normal, 2=Eq, 3=probably abnormal, 4=definitely abnormal) at each of 14 possible lesion locations, without knowledge of test results or final diagnoses, in 4 separate reading sessions viewing tomograms fused with CT for (1) F alone, (2) F viewed simultaneously with all planar images (F+P), (3) I alone and (4) I+P. All pts had surgical & pathology results, which served as the reference standard. Results There were 135 lesions among the 106 pts. 28 readings (21% of non-zero scores) were Eq for F, with a similar number of 26 Eq’s for F+P (19%, p=0.80), but fewer Eq scores for I (7%, p=0.002) and I+P (12%, p=0.06). 12 sites scored as Eq on F were true positive (TP) and 16 were true negative (TN). The % readings that were Eq by F that were accurately resolved by F+P, I and I+P were 64%, 71% & 75%, respectively. Compared to F readings, the numbers of new Eq scores from F+P, I and I+P readings were 18, 9 & 13. For F, F+P, I and I+P for all 135 lesions, sensitivity was 72%, 76%, 75% & 78%, specificity was 90%, 89%, 96% & 97%, and accuracy was 84%, 85%, 89% & 91%, respectively. Thus, sensitivity, specificity & accuracy were highest for I+P. Conclusions Iterative reconstruction significantly helped successfully resolve readings that were equivocal on conventional FB reconstructed SPECT, with highest overall test performance achieved by integrating all available imaging information.
Rules of Videogames and Controls in Digital Societies

Rules in games are one of the most significant aspects to characterize games, and they allow players to temporarily live in a virtual world, which is separated from the real world. The author questions how the implication of rules in games has been altered based on the transformation of their forms from analog to digital. Furthermore, this paper analyzes rules and controls in contemporary technological societies by focusing on how video games are constructed as well as how contemporary game players experience them in the digital space.
IFNβ signaling inhibits osteogenesis in human SLE bone marrow.

BackgroundBone marrow mesenchymal stem cells are multipotent adult stem cells that can differentiate into osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondrocytes. Our recently published data demonstrate that sys...
Measuring quality of preprimary education in sub-Saharan Africa: Evaluation of the Measuring Early Learning Environments scale

Abstract Measurement of quality in early childhood education (ECE) helps shape policy and practice, yet few studies have examined the adaptation and resulting psychometric properties of ECE quality measures when used in low- and middle-income countries. This study reports on the adaptation of the Measure of Early Learning Environments scale (MELE-A), developed as part of the Measuring Early Learning Quality & Outcomes (MELQO) Initiative, in one sub-Saharan African country. Beginning with a global “core” of items, MELE-A was adapted to address measurement feasibility and align with cultural context and national standards. The sample included 250 public and private preprimary schools and 979 children from all regions of the country. Three factors were hypothesized to represent empirically documented aspects of quality and were supported by categorical confirmatory factor analysis: health/safety, materials/activities, and teacher/child interaction. Few associations were found between these factors and child development and learning and teacher characteristics; only materials/activities demonstrated significant associations with children’s learning, while teacher education was associated with all three factors. Results document the multi-faceted process of adapting tools and the importance of documenting psychometric properties of these adapted tools, to improve accuracy of ECE measurement to inform policy and practice.
PRAME expression in 155 cases of metastatic melanoma.

Background PRAME (preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma) is a promising immunohistochemical marker in distinguishing benign from malignant primary cutaneous melanocytic lesions and lymph node deposits. We hypothesize that PRAME may also reliably identify melanoma metastases that are clinically detected in skin, lymph nodes, or small intestine. Methods A total of 155 cases of metastatic melanoma to lymph node (N = 54) and non-lymph node (N = 101) sites were stained with an antibody against PRAME. Nuclear expression was scored in tumor cells as negative, 1% to 25% (1+), 26% to 50% (2+), 51% to 75% (3+), or 76% to 100% (4+). Results PRAME expression was seen in 151/155 (97.4%) cases, with 4+ expression in 64 cases (41.3%), 3+ expression in 46 cases (29.7%), 2+ expression in 18 cases (11.6%), and 1+ expression in 23 cases (14.8%). Lymph node metastases were more likely to show lower expression as compared to metastases to other anatomic sites (P = 0.003). Conclusions A high level of PRAME immunoreactivity was identified in this cohort of metastatic melanoma. Lymph node metastases showed more focal or absent PRAME expression as compared to metastases to other sites. Overall, PRAME is a useful tool for confirming the diagnosis of melanoma in a metastatic setting, in both nodal and visceral deposits.
Young Manhood: The Army Samples

This chapter will deal with the fourth and final set of comparisons between Kibbutz and non-Kibbutz subjects. Fortunately, through the cooperation of Israel’s army authorities, the author had access to the files of the Officers Selection Unit. These files contained a great deal of personal information and test data on all soldiers referred by their training units as potential officer material. The following sections will describe the random samples of Kibbutz and non-Kibbutz soldiers that were obtained, and the relevant measures on which they were compared. Subsequently, the results of the comparisons and their interpretation will be presented.
Hybrid energy systems using small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs)

Abstract This chapter discusses the potential application of small modular reactor concepts in tightly coupled, nuclear hybrid energy system (NHES) architectures, also referred to as “integrated energy systems.” Such an implementation proposes to integrate multiple input resources to produce multiple output products, maximizing the use of both thermal and electrical energy during times of both low and high net electricity demand. Considerations in the design and optimization of NHES architectures capable of flexible operation and a path forward for the analysis and development of such systems are discussed.
Specialist physicians' referral behavior regarding preimplantation genetic testing for single-gene disorders: Is there room to grow?

Objective To assess whether primary care specialists' demographics, specialty, and knowledge of preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M) influence their practice patterns. Design Cross-sectional survey study. Setting Academic medical center. Patients Not applicable. Interventions None. Main Outcome Measures Objective PGT-M knowledge, subjective comfort with PGT-related topics, PGT care practices (discussions/referrals), and PGT-M implementation barriers. Results Our survey had 145 respondents: 65 obstetrician/gynecologists, 36 internists, and 44 pediatricians. Overall, 88% believed that patients at a risk of passing on genetic disorders should be provided PGT-M information. However, few discussed PGT-M with their patients (24%) or referred them for testing (23%). Over half (63%) believed that the lack of physician knowledge was a barrier to PGT use. In terms of subjective comfort with PGT, only 1 in 5 physicians felt familiar enough with the topic to answer patient questions. There were higher odds of discussing (odds ratio, 3.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.75-5.87) or referring for PGT (odds ratio, 2.52; 95% confidence interval, 1.41-4.51) for each additional 0.5 correct answers to PGT knowledge-related questions. The odds of referring patients for PGT-M were the highest among obstetrician/gynecologists compared with those among the internists and pediatricians. Conclusions Physician specialty and PGT knowledge were associated with PGT-M care delivery practices. Although most specialists believed in equipping at-risk patients with PGT-M information, <1 in 4 discussed or referred patients for PGT. The low levels of PGT-related care among providers may be owed to inadequate knowledge of and comfort with the topic. An opportunity to promote greater understanding of PGT-M among primary care specialists exists and can in turn improve the use of referrals to PGT-M services.
Quantifying and Explaining the New-IssuePremium in the Post-Glass–Steagall CorporateBond Market

The authors document and rationalize the premium paid by bond issuers in the corporate bond markets. Changes in the bond market over the past 30 years have shifted the new-issue pricing risk from investors to banks and back to investors, with large institutional investors acting as a de facto adjunct underwriting group, and this process has required both capital commitment as well as a commitment to taking on unsystematic risk for which investors require compensation. The authors use the superior data prevalent in trades under the TRACE system to compute the new-issue premium (NIP) and relate the magnitude of that premium to predetermined economic variables: the level of the corporate bond spread; the future volatility of swap spreads; the prevailing value of unsystematic risk in the bond markets; the spread of the issuer to the Treasury market at time of issuance; and the tenor of the new bond issue. They then present a model for the required NIP based on compensation for information uncertainty and the bearing of unsystematic risk. In so doing, they also address the issues of oligopolistic pricing and wealth transfer that occur at time of issuance.
Franchising for the social sector

This essay discusses the organizational design of Unjani Clinics as described in Szerb, Kivleneice, and Aggarwal’s organizational zoo case study.
Organic matter chemistry and dynamics in clear-cut and unmanaged hardwood forest ecosystems

Forest harvesting alters the organic matter cycle by changing litter inputs and the decomposition regime. We hypothesized that these changes would result in differences in organic matter chemistry between clear-cut and uncut watershed ecosystems. We studied the chemistry of soil organic matter (SOM), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in soil solutions and stream samples in clear-cut and uncut sites at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in New Hampshire using DOC fractionation techniques and solid-state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Alkyl-C (aliphatic compounds) and O-alkyl-C (carbohydrates) were the largest C fractions in soil and dissolved organic matter at Hubbard Brook. Alkyl-C ranged from 29–48% of soil C, 25–42% of soil solution C, and 22–42% of streamwater DOC. Carbohydrates comprised 32–49%, 36–43%, and 29–60% of C in soils, solutions, and streamwater, respectively. In both soils and soil solutions, the carbohydrate fraction decreased with increasing soil depth, while the aromaticity of organic matter increased with depth. There were no significant differences in the structural chemistry of SOM between clear-cut and uncut watersheds. The aromatic-C fractions in soil solutions at the clear-cut site ranged from 12–16%, approximately 40% greater than at the uncut site (8.5–11%). Thus, clear-cutting has resulted in the leaching of more highly decomposed organic matter, and depletion of more aliphatic compounds in the soluble organic pool. Because DOC fluxes are small compared to the SOM pool, large differences in soil solution chemistry do not substantially alter the overall composition of SOM. While the organic chemistry of stream DOC varied greatly among 3 sampling dates, there were no obvious clear-cutting effects. Thus, temporal variations in flowpaths and/or in-stream processes appear to be more important than disturbance in regulating the organic carbon chemistry of these streams.
The effects of morphine sulfate on cerebral circulation and metabolism in normal and toxemic pregnant women

Abstract 1. 1. Quantitative studies of cerebral blood flow, cerebral oxygen metabolism, cerebral vascular resistance, mean arterial blood pressure, respiratory quotient of the brain, and the blood gases were made upon 7 normal and 12 toxemic pregnant women before and after the administration of morphine sulfate. 2. 2. There was no statistically significant change brought about upon these functions by morphine, although there was some lowering of blood pressure and cerebral vascular resistance and increase in cerebral blood flow. 3. 3. The effects upon the brain of morphine were compared with those brought about by barbiturates. 4. 4. It was concluded that morphine exerts a more physiologic effect upon the cerebrum than the intravenously administered barbiturates.
Assay of hypoxanthine-guanine and adenine phosphoribosyl transferases: A simple screening test for the Lesch-Nyhan syndrome and related disorders of purine metabolism☆

Abstract A novel procedure has been developed for the assay of hypoxanthineguanine phosphoribosyl transferase (EC2.4.2.8.) and adenine phosphoribosyl transferase (EC2.4.2.7.). The assay is based on the precipitation by lanthanum chloride of 14 C-labeled IMP, GMP, and AMP, the nucleotide products generated in the reaction. The activity of the enzyme can be determined through the assay of the 14 C content of either the residual substrate in the supernatant fluid or of the lanthanum nucleomonophosphate in the precipitate. The determination of enzyme activity can be carried out on whole blood or on blood dried on filter paper. The assay is suitable for the screening diagnosis of disorders of purine metabolism and also for quantitative determination of enzyme activity.
Fugitive literature in the cross hairs: An examination of bibliographic control and access

This paper discusses the importance of fugitive and/or grey literature in the field of women's studies and the inherent difficulty in providing bibliographic control and access for this type of print collection. Further, it presents a methodology designed to improve bibliographic control and access of not only Rutgers' Women's File, a collection of grey or fugitive literature, but to suggest that such a system could enhance access to similar collections by including information about their presence in library information systems and/or online catalogs and thus increase potential access by user populations. This method can also serve as a model for access and control for other non-conventional print collections in libraries.
Radar Measurement of Waves and Currents in the Nearshore Zone

Abstract : The objectives of this effort are to determine the extent to which Doppler radar techniques can be exploited for both qualitative and quantitative nearshore measurement applications. Of particular interest are estimates of surf zone location, extent, surface currents, and wave parameters. To date, optical (video) techniques have been the primary remote sensing technology for these applications. An advantage of radar is its all-weather, day-night operability.
Location and characterization of electrical leakage paths and turn to turn shorts in TFTR toroidal field coils

The authors describe the methods used at PPPL (Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory) to: (1) locate and characterize multiple electrical leakage paths in the insulation of the TFTR (Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor) toroidal field (TF) coils; and (2) determine if turn to turn shorts exist in the coils. The electrical leakage test was first used in May of 1991 to locate a single leakage path of 15 M Omega in TF coil No. 3. The test was again used to locate a single leakage path of 1 M Omega in TF coil No. 18 on September 3, 1991. In theory, leakages as high as 75 M Omega can be located and characterized using this method. The turn to turn test consists of individual tests on each TF coil and a signature test to determine if changes have taken place since the last test. The turn to turn portion of the test was performed on the TFTR TF coils in April of 1991. The signature test was performed in July of 1991. Tests have shown that turn to turn shorts as high as 40 m Omega (500 times the 80 mu Omega resistance of a single turn) can be located using this method. The hardware designed and built to support both tests and the test results are also described. >
Performance of Altriset (TM) (Chlorantraniliprole) Termiticide Against Formosan Subterranean Termites, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, in Laboratory Feeding Cessation and Collateral Transfer Trials, and Field Applications

Chlorantraniliprole represents the first compound to be registered as a termiticide by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in over a decade. This novel termiticide is currently registered as a ‘reduced-risk pesticide’ by the EPA. Laboratory and field trials were conducted to quantify mortality of Formosan subterranean termites (FST), Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki resulting from chlorantraniliprole treated soil, the degree to which the termites curtail feeding intensity post-exposure to chlorantraniliprole treated soil, collateral transfer of chlorantraniliprole among nest mates, and the effectiveness of chlorantraniliprole as a remedial treatment against structural infestations of FST. Termites which were exposed to chlorantraniliprole treated soil consumed significantly less paper than unexposed FST. The mean percent mortality of those termites exposed to chlorantraniliprole treated soil was significantly greater than that of unexposed FST. Depending on donor:recipient ratios, the mean mortality of recipients ranged from 14.65 – 90.00 % in the collateral transfer trials. There was a positive correlation between increased donor density and recipient mortality. Through 24 mo post-treatment, 27.3% of the structures which were treated in field trials were observed to have infestations of termites that required re-treatment; however, no active FST were observed to be infesting any of the structures during the 30 and 36 month post-treatment inspections. Additionally, a novel scoring rubric was developed that will allow standardization of field study sites with respect to dissimilarity in site variables, and will allow for more consistent comparison of resultsacross disparate field experiments. An explanation for the lack of successful remediation of many of the structures involved in the field trial is proposed and is based on our novel scoring system.
Functional relevance of “seed” and “non-seed” sequences in microRNA-mediated promotion of C. elegans developmental progression

The founding heterochronic microRNAs, lin-4 and let-7, together with their validated targets and well-characterized phenotypes in C. elegans, offer an opportunity to test functionality of microRNAs in a developmental context. In this study, we defined sequence requirements at the microRNA level for these two microRNAs, evaluating lin-4 and let-7 mutant microRNAs for their ability to support temporal development under conditions where the wild-type lin-4 and let-7 gene products are absent. For lin-4, we found a strong requirement for seed sequences, with function drastically affected by several central mutations in the seed sequence, while rescue was retained by a set of mutations peripheral to the seed. let-7 rescuing activity was retained to a surprising degree by a variety of central seed mutations, while several non-seed mutant effects support potential noncanonical contributions to let-7 function. Taken together, this work illustrates both the functional partnership between seed and non-seed sequences in mediating C. elegans temporal development and a diversity among microRNA effectors in the contributions of seed and non-seed regions to activity.
Bis(pyridoxal) polyphosphates as specific intramolecular cross-linking agents for hemoglobin.

Publisher Summary Reagents that can form intramolecular cross-links between the two αβ dimers in the hemoglobin molecule are necessary for the stabilization of intermediates in the ligand-binding reaction of the kind αα + β + β + or α + α + ββ + , so that the properties of the intermediates can be studied. These reagents are also necessary for the investigation of hemoglobins containing three different chains. Stabilization of the tetramer by intramolecular cross-links is necessary for use of hemoglobin as a blood substitute because extracorpuscular hemoglobin is excreted rapidly owing to glomerular filtration of αβ dimers. This chapter discusses two kinds of cross-linking agents and their reactions with human and bovine hemoglobin: (1) 2-nor-2-formylpyridoxal 5'-phosphate (NFPLP), that is, pyridoxal phosphate (PLP), in which the methyl group in the 2-position of the pyridine ring is replaced by an aldehyde group and (2) two members of a series of compounds containing two pyridoxal rings connected at the 5'-position by a number of phosphate residues, that is, bis(pyridoxal) diphosphate [(bisPL)P 2 ] and bis(pyridoxal) tetraphosphate [(bisPL)P 4 ].
Test of nuclear level density inputs for Hauser-Feshbach model calculations

The energy spectra of neutrons, protons, and \ensuremath{\alpha}-particles have been measured from the $d+$$^{59}\mathrm{Co}$ and $^{3}\mathrm{He}+^{58}\mathrm{Fe}$ reactions leading to the same compound nucleus, $^{61}\mathrm{Ni}$. The experimental cross sections have been compared to Hauser-Feshbach model calculations using different input level density models. None of them have been found to agree with experiment. It manifests the serious problem with available level density parametrizations especially those based on neutron resonance spacings and density of discrete levels. New level densities and corresponding Fermi-gas parameters have been obtained for reaction product nuclei such as $^{60}\mathrm{Ni}$, $^{60}\mathrm{Co}$, and $^{57}\mathrm{Fe}$.
Superficiality of femoral artery pseudoaneurysm as a risk factor for rupture

Abstract Femoral artery pseudoaneurysm is a well-recognized complication of cardiac catheterization, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) and other invasive vascular procedures.1,2 Femoral artery pseudoaneurysms may be associated with many secondary complications including infection, distal embolization and, most often, hemorrhage. The reported risk factors for pseudoaneurysm hemorrhage or rupture are large size and anticoagulation. In this report we review 3 cases that suggest superficiality as an addition risk factor for pseudoaneurysm hemorrhage.
Comparisons of the toxicity of CdCl2 and Cd-metallothionein in isolated rat hepatocytes.

Abstract In the intact animal, inorganic Cd distributes mainly to the liver and produces hepatotoxicity, while Cd—metallothionein (CdMT) distributes primarily to the kidney and produces nephrotoxicity. CdMT has also been demonstrated to more toxic than Cd in cultured kidney cells, but it is not known if CdMT is more toxic to all cultured cells or if there is a good correlation between in vitro and in vivo toxicity. Therefore, hepatocytes, which were isolated and grown in monolayer culture for 24 h, were incubated with CdCl2 (1–100 μM) or CdMT (3–100 μM Cd). The intracellular K+ content was quantitated 24 h later as an index of toxicity. The K+ concentration of the hepatocytes was decreased 50% by 4 μM CdCl2, whereas 25 μM CdMT was required to produce similar injury. In the intact animal, zinc induces the synthesis of MT and decreases the hepatotoxicity of Cd. ZnCl2 added to the media (100 μM) for 24 h before exposure to Cd or CdMT increased the intracellular MT concentration 700%. This elevation in MT reduced the toxicity of CdCl2 approximately 80% but did not alter the toxicity of CdMT. In summary, CdCl2 is more toxic to cultured hepatocytes than CdMT, and MT induction decreases the toxicity of CdCl2 hepatocytes, as has been observed in the intact animal. This indicates that cultured hepatocytes appear to be an excellent model for examining the hepatotoxicity of Cd.
Co-operative and non-co-operative bases of food-calling

We ask how the threat of starvation and the hazard of predation might influence the economics of food-calling behavior. These vocalizations, such as the “chirrup” call of house sparrows ( Passer domesticus ), alert conspecifics to the location of a patch of food discovered by the caller. The resulting social response ordinarily implies that the caller takes less food from a patch than it could obtain by not calling and remaining solitary. We analyze the behavior with two-person matrix games where an individual may or may not inform the other after finding food. When starvation alone imposes a mortality hazard, or when the individual's susceptibility to predation is the same for solitary and social foraging, a pure strategy of not informing must qualify as an evolutionarily stable strategy (ESS). Depending on the probability distribution of patch sizes, this game may conform to a Prisoner's Dilemma where co-operation equates with a pure strategy of informing. A sufficiently high probability of repeated play, an event obviously requiring survival of both individuals, might favor informing through the stability of co-operation conditional upon reciprocity. The likelihood of informing increases as either the mean size of food patches or the patch-size variance increases. When a solitary incurs a greater predation hazard than a social forager does, as many empirical studies suggest, both starvation and predation directly govern the solution to the game. In this case one or the other pure strategy (but not both simultaneously) qualifies as an ESS whether the game will be played only once or repeatedly. If solitaries are sufficiently more susceptible to predation than social foragers are, informing is the only ESS and does not require reciprocity for stability. When pure not informing is an ESS, informing may succeed via the stability of conditional co-operation over repeated play, again depending on the probability distribution of patch sizes. Hence foodcalling may arise in the absence of co-operation or as a conditionally co-operative strategy when solitaries suffer greater mortality from predation.
Changes in the Breuer-Hering reflexes following rostral pontine lesion

Abstract The lung stretch reflex characteristics of unanesthetized decerebrate cats were determined using servo-controlled lung volume changes before and after bilateral lesion of the dorsolateral rostral pons in the region of nucleus parabrachialis medialis (NPBM). During the inspiratory phase the time-dependent threshold curve for inspiratory inhibition by lung inflation was shifted to larger volumes after lesion with no change in the constant describing its rate of decay. During the expiratory phase the gain of the inflation reflex was found to be increased by lesion, but otherwise to remain qualitatively the same. Deflations during the expiratory phase revealed a prolonged central inhibitory state with reduced rate of decay late in expiration. It is concluded that with intact vagi structures in the region of NPBM constitute but one of at least three sources of inspiratory inhibition, feedback derived from peripheral lung stretch receptors and from caudal pontine or medullary neurons also being involved. It is also concluded that the structures in the vicinity of NPBM affect the switching mechanisms differently during the two phases of the cycle: During inspiration they contribute a tonic threshold lowering input to the inspiratory 'offswitch'; whereas, during expiration they provide inspiratory-facilitatory influences late in the phase.
Oligouronide signaling of proteinase inhibitor genes in plants: Structure-activity relationships of di- and trigalacturonic acids and their derivatives

Polygalacturonic acid (DPave approximately 20), alpha-1,4-di- and trigalacturonic acids, delta 4,5-alpha-1,4-di- and delta 4,5-alpha-trigalacturonic acids, and several chemically modified derivatives of these oligomers were prepared. Their proteinase inhibitor-inducing activities were determined by supplying solutions of the compounds to young, excised tomato plants through their cut stems. Digalacturonic acid, on a molar basis, was the most active oligomer (ED50 approximately 1.5 micrograms/plant), being about three times more active than the parent oligogalacturonic acid (ED50 approximately 5.5 micrograms/plant). The specific inducing activity of trigalacturonic acid was about half that of digalacturonic acid. Both delta 4,5-di- and delta 4,5-trigalacturonic acids were about half as active as di- and trigalacturonic acids, respectively. Reduction of the hemiacetal (carbonyl) group of the di- and trigalacturonic acids with sodium borohydride completely destroyed proteinase inhibitor inducing activities, indicating that the inducing activity of both acids depends upon an intact hemiacetal at the reducing termini. Reduction of the double bonds of delta 4,5-di- and delta 4,5-trigalacturonic acids by catalytic hydrogenation with H2 (palladium catalyst) produced derivatives with specific inducing activities of approximately one-half that of the parent compounds. Thus, while the reducing termini of oligogalacturonides require an intact hemiacetal for proteinase inhibitor inducing activities, the nonreducing termini of the small oligouronides do not require a C4 hydroxyl nor a C5 proton to be active inducers.
Wireless is changing the policy calculus for municipal broadband

Historically, the justification for municipal provisioning of “last-mile” communications infrastructure has focused on the natural monopoly aspect of wireline infrastructure. Growing interest in wireless ISPs, municipal hot spots, and access to public space for siting wireless infrastructure suggests new and expanded opportunities for local government participation in telecommunication services. This paper examines the implications of emerging wireless technologies for the policy debate over whether municipalities should be playing an active role in providing last-mile broadband services and, if so, what the nature of that role should be.
Effects of cocaine on conditioning of the rabbit nictitating membrane response.

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to determine cocaine's (0, 1, 3, and 6 mg/kg) effects on associative, nonassociative, and motor processes in classical conditioning of the rabbit's nictitating membrane response (NMR). In experiment 1, acquisition training consisted of tone- and light-conditioned stimuli (CSs) each paired on separate trials with a shock unconditioned stimulus (UCS). Cocaine injected prior to each session significantly impaired acquisition of conditioned responses (CRs). In Experiment 2, rabbits received cocaine injections prior to each training session involving explicitly unpaired CS-alone presentations. Cocaine had no significant effects upon: base rate of NMRs; frequency of NMRs during presentations of the CSs; and frequency, amplitude, and latency of the UCRs. Consequently, cocaine's impairment of CR acquisition could not be attributed to its effects upon the nonassociative processes of base rate, sensitization, and pseudoconditioning, nor upon the sensory processing of the UCS and/or motor functioning of the UCR. Rather, cocaine's effects upon CR acquisition were mediated by the drug's effect upon associative processes. It appears likely that the drug affected the ability of the CS to enter into the associative conditioning process.
SURFACE MICROSTRUCTURE OF ZR41.25TI13.75CU12.5NI10.0BE22.5, A BULK METALLIC GLASS

The surface of Zr41.25Ti13.75Cu12.5Ni10.0Be22.5, a bulk metallic glass prepared by RF induction melting, has been imaged using atomic force microscopy. The untreated surfaces were very smooth; features were no higher than 3 nm over a 10 x 10 µm region, comparable to many polished surfaces. Two types of microstructure were also observed; periodic striations forming either a striped or a checkered structure were present, with wavelengths between 1 and 2 µm, and amplitude of approximately 2 nm; in other cases, “cracked mud”-like patterns were observed. These microstructures could be related to strain-induced surface roughening; preliminary calculations are presented that are consistent with this hypothesis.
Delay distribution analysis of window random-access algorithms

A method for delay distribution analysis of Window Random-Access algorithms is presented. The window size is allowed to vary during the operation of the algorithm. It is shown that the quantities of interest in the computation of the delay distribution, can be related to the solution of appropriate infinite systems of linear equations. Once the constants and the coefficients of the unknowns of a system are determined, bounds on the solution can be developed by applying previously developed methodologies. The method is applied to the delay distribution analysis of the Capetanakis Window Random-Access algorithm and the Part-and-Try algorithm, both under binary feedback.
Assay and identification of juvenile hormone binding proteins in leucophaea maderae

Abstract We modified a binding assay using polyethylene glycol (PEG) to precipitate bound hormone. Optimum precipitation occurred when reaction mixtures were incubated with 10–40% PEG and 1.25–2.5 mg/ml γ-globulins for 2–90 min at 4 or 23°C. Results from this assay and from the dextran-coated charcoal assay were similar. Addition of phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride eliminated nonspecific esterase activity in extracts. JH III-binding macromolecules were identified in hemolymph and ovaries of Leucophaea maderae . These molecules were pronase- and heat-sensitive and saturable. Using Scatchard analysis an average K D of 2.04 (±0.32)× l 0 -8 M and 1.91 (±0.80)×10 -8 M was calculated for hemolymph and ovarian binding proteins. JH III had the highest affinity for binding sites, followed by JH I and JH 0. Various extraction procedures caused changes in JH affinity for both binding proteins. At high concentrations the ( + ) isomer and mixed isomer preparations of methoprene and hydroprene competed for binding sites. Binding proteins had no affinity for the ( − ) isomer or for the JH III acid.
Discovery of Neuropeptides in the Nematode Ascaris suum by Database Mining and Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to discover peptides in extracts of the large parasitic nematode Ascaris suum. This required the assembly of a new database of known and predicted peptides. In addition to those already sequenced, peptides were either previously predicted to be processed from precursor proteins identified in an A. suum library of expressed sequence tags (ESTs), or newly predicted from a library of A. suum genome survey sequences (GSSs). The predicted MS/MS fragmentation patterns of this collection of real and putative peptides were compared with the actual fragmentation patterns found in the MS/MS spectra of peptides fractionated by MS; this enabled individual peptides to be sequenced. Many previously identified peptides were found, and 21 novel peptides were discovered. Thus, this approach is very useful, despite the fact that the available GSS database is still preliminary, having only 1X coverage.
Discrete-trial vs. continuous free-operant procedures in assessing whether reinforcement context affects reinforcement value

Pigeons were trained to respond to two alternating concurrent reinforcement schedules. The reinforcement probabilities were .05 and .10 in one component, and .10 and .20 in the other. In one condition, the pigeons received training on a discrete-trial procedure in which the keylights remained illuminated for 5s or until a response occurred. In another condition, pigeons received training on a procedure in which the reinforcement contingencies were the same as in the discrete-trial procedure, but the stimuli were not turned off after 5s or after a response. Following training in each condition, probe tests were presented. In both conditions, the .20 alternative was, overall, preferred to the .05 alternative during probe tests. Following discrete-trial training, there was no reliable preference between the two .10 alternatives. However, when the stimuli remained illuminated during the intertrial interval periods during training, probe tests results showed preference for the .10 alternative that had been presented in the leaner context during training. The pattern of results is consistent with the notion that probe preference can be influenced both by the absolute reinforcement schedules associated with each alternative, as well as changeover behavior developed during training.
Electrophysiologic documentation of trifascicular block as the common cause of complete heart block.

Abstract His bundle electrograms were recorded in 18 patients with chronic complete heart block to determine the site of atrioventricular (A-V) conduction defect. In 14 patients (78 percent) the site of block was distal to the common bundle, and these instances are thought to be examples of trifascicular block. All 14 patients had wide aberrant QRS complexes. In 4 patients (22 percent) the site of block was proximal to the common bundle. In these patients the QRS complex was of normal width or was unchanged after the onset of heart block. In 4 patients with block distal to the common bundle, A-V nodal conduction was shown to respond normally to the stress of rapid atrial pacing. It is concluded that the majority of cases of chronic complete heart block are probably examples of trifascicular block.
Internet Accessibility of the Mizuko Kuyo (Water-Child Ritual) in Modern Japan: A Case Study in Weberian Rationality

The mizuko kuyo is a Japanese (Buddhist, Shinto, New Religious, other) memorial service for infants or young children who have died through some misfortune, including disease, miscarriage, and, increasingly, elective abortion. Indeed, abortion is the predominant form of contraception for many Japanese families. Here we consider, in Weberian terms of the rationalization of institutions, how Internet accessibility and its created virtual reality of the mizuko kuyo has driven its popularity along the dimensions of privatization, bureaucratization, and commodification in decisions to perform the ritual by Internet. We utilize a sample of Tokyo mizuko kuyo Web sites and the contexts of their advertisements and available services for mizuko kuyo, including fee structures and other advertising “lures,” to analyze this merging of traditional and modern technological paths of spirituality along Weberian theoretical lines.
Macromolecular Crowding Affects Stability Properties: A Comparison Study For Titin And Ubiquitin

Macromolecules can occupy a large fraction of the volume of the cell and this affects many properties of the proteins inside the cell, such as thermal stability and rates of folding. We present a comparison of the effects of molecular crowding in ubiquitin and titin. We have used an atomic force microscope based single molecule method to measure the effects of macromolecular crowding on the mechanical stability of these proteins. We used dextran as the crowding agent with two different molecular weights, with concentrations varying from zero to 300 grams per liter in the buffer solution. The results show that the forces that are required to unfold molecules are enhanced when high concentration of dextran molecules is added to the buffer solution.
Predicting night time dissolved oxygen loss in prawn ponds of Hawaii: Part I. Evaluation of traditional methods

Several candidates (secchi disc depth, in vivo fluorescence, chlorophyll a concentration, turbidimeter measurement, light absorbance) for an indicator of water column respiration in prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) ponds of Hawaii were evaluated. The % variation in the water column respiration rate explained by the indicator and water temperature did not exceed 60% for any of the potential indicators. Pond DO and water temperature were monitored overnight at prawn ponds in Kahuku (Oahu). Additionally, water column respiration rate in the ponds was estimated by the dark bottle method. On average, water column (or plankton) respiration comprised 42% of the whole pond respiration. Sediment respiration accounted for 50·2% of the whole pond respiration. The log-linear (or exponential) extrapolation technique yielded substantially more accurate estimates of dawn DO in the Amorient ponds than the linear extrapolation routine.
Multiple Retinol and Retinal Dehydrogenases Catalyze All-trans-retinoic Acid Biosynthesis in Astrocytes

All-trans-retinoic acid (atRA) stimulates neurogenesis, dendritic growth of hippocampal neurons, and higher cognitive functions, such as spatial learning and memory formation. Although astrocyte-derived atRA has been considered a key factor in neurogenesis, little direct evidence identifies hippocampus cell types and the enzymes that biosynthesize atRA. Here we show that primary rat astrocytes, but not neurons, biosynthesize atRA using multiple retinol dehydrogenases (Rdh) of the short chain dehydrogenase/reductase gene family and retinaldehyde dehydrogenases (Raldh). Astrocytes secrete atRA into their medium; neurons sequester atRA. The first step, conversion of retinol into retinal, is rate-limiting. Neurons and astrocytes both synthesize retinyl esters and reduce retinal into retinol. siRNA knockdown indicates that Rdh10, Rdh2 (mRdh1), and Raldh1, -2, and -3 contribute to atRA production. Knockdown of the Rdh Dhrs9 increased atRA synthesis ∼40% by increasing Raldh1 expression. Immunocytochemistry revealed cytosolic and nuclear expression of Raldh1 and cytosol and perinuclear expression of Raldh2. atRA autoregulated its concentrations by inducing retinyl ester synthesis via lecithin:retinol acyltransferase and stimulating its catabolism via inducing Cyp26B1. These data show that adult hippocampus astrocytes rely on multiple Rdh and Raldh to provide a paracrine source of atRA to neurons, and atRA regulates its own biosynthesis in astrocytes by directing flux of retinol. Observation of cross-talk between Dhrs9 and Raldh1 provides a novel mechanism of regulating atRA biosynthesis.
A goal programming model for allocating operating budgets of academic units

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to develop a model for reducing operating budgets of the academic units of a small private university, while reflecting the diverse goals of the university. A zero-one goal programming approach is used to design and implement the model for budgetary decision making.