cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In vitro and in vivo growth inhibition of murine Melanoma K-1735 cells by a dominant negative mutant α subunit of the Gi2 protein

In murine and rat fibroblasts, activation of several G proteins (Gi2, Gq, G12) can stimulate cell growth or transformation, and can induce tumor formation in nude mice; contrastingly, inactivation of Gi2 inhibits fibroblast proliferation in vitro. We investigated whether it is possible to modulate malignant cell growth in vitro and in vivo through alteration of Gi2 protein function. To do so, we introduced mutated α subunits of Gi2 (αi2) in CL19 cells, a clone of the murine melanoma cell line K-1735. When we did this, a constitutively activated mutant (αi2-Q205L) and a dominant negative mutant (αi2-G204A) of αi2 were stably expressed in CL19 cells. We found that the in vitro motility of all αi2-transfected CL19 cells was increased; however, overexpression and alteration of the function of Gi2 did not increase metastasis formation by CL19 cells in nude mice. Expression of αi2-Q205L conferred a limited growth advantage to CL19 cells in vitro; in vivo, tumor formation and size, and overall survival of animals injected with CL19 cells expressing αi2-Q205L, were similar to controls. In contrast, expression of the inactive αi2-G204A mutant inhibited CL19 growth in vitro by at least 50% in all conditions tested, and mice injected with cells expressing the αi2-G204A mutant showed delayed tumor formation, reduced tumor size, and longer survival. We conclude that Gi2 proteins contribute to malignant cell growth, and more importantly, that inactivation of Gi2 proteins can inhibit proliferation of melanoma cells and possibly of other malignant cells both in vitro and in vivo.
Development of localized oriented receptive fields by learning a translation-invariant code for natural images

Neurons in the mammalian primary visual cortex are known to possess spatially localized, oriented receptive fields. It has previously been suggested that these distinctive properties may reflect an efficient image encoding strategy based on maximizing the sparseness of the distribution of output neuronal activities or alternately, extracting the independent components of natural image ensembles. Here, we show that a strategy for transformation-invariant coding of images based on a first-order Taylor series expansion of an image also causes localized, oriented receptive fields to be learned from natural image inputs. These receptive fields, which approximate localized first-order differential operators at various orientations, allow a pair of cooperating neural networks, one estimating object identity (‘what’) and the other estimating object transformations (‘where’), to simultaneously recognize an object and estimate its pose by jointly maximizing the a posteriori probability of generating the observed vi...
Modelling and simulation of deep-bed filtration: a stochastic compartmental model

Abstract To gain insight into the performance of a deep-bed filter, it is essential to determine the spatial distribution of suspended particles in the bed as a function of time. More often than not, a filtration process behaves stochastically rather than deterministically; therefore, a stochastic compartmental model is proposed to simulate the concentration dynamics of suspended particles in the liquid and solid parts over the different sections of the filter. In this study, the filter bed is divided into an arbitrary number of compartments in the direction of flow. The model yields the distribution of suspended particles along the bed at any time t , including those exited from the bed up to that time, and the mean and variance of the distribution. The parameters of the model are estimated by fitting the model to the experimental data. The reasonably good agreement between the simulated results and experimental data ensures the applicability of the present model.
On the Keynes and Pigou effects in aggregate demand theory

Abstract The standard approach to the derivation of aggregate demand employs the IS-LM model with a flexible price level in which distinctions are drawn between the Keynes and Pigou effects. This paper is an extension of this traditional analysis and demonstrates that the slope of the economy's aggregate demand function may be dichotomized and specified as the summation of these two effects. This result is then used to examine the impact of different conditions within the product and money markets. An expression for the price level elasticity of aggregate demand is also derived.
Surgical experience with pancreatic and peripancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: Review of 125 patients.

Neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas and peripancreatic area are rare entities with a wide spectrum of clinical presentation. This study retrospectively reviews the patients who underwent surgery for these tumors at The Johns Hopkins Hospital from 1949 to 1996, inclusive There were 125 patients (65 males and 60 females) whose mean age was 51 ± 1 years Fifty-eight patients (48%) had nonfunctional tumors, whereas 64 (52%) had functional tumors 35 (55%) insulinomas, 23 (36%) gastrmomas, three (5%) VIP-omas, two (3 %) glucagonomas, and one (1%) ACTHorna All patients with functional tumors presented with appropriate signs and symptoms of hormonal excess, 86% of patients with nonfunctional tumors presented with weight loss, abdominal pain, or jaundice Preoperauve computed tomography (CT) correctly localized the tumor in 66 (76%) of 87 patients, angiography in 45 (58%) of 78 patients, and CT plus angiography in 54 (79%) of 68 patients Tumors were benign in 60 patients (48%), malignant m 65 patients (52%), and were located in the head, neck, or uncinate process of the pancreas in 54, body in 14, tail in 18, and duodenum in eight The most common operative procedures performed were 50 pancreaacoduodenectomies (40%), 39 distal pancreatectomies (31%), and 21 tumor enucleations (17%) Nine synchronous hepatic resections were performed for metastases Of the evaluable patients, 46 (43%) had postoperative complications, the most common of which were pancreatic fistula (16%), wound infection (15%), and delayed gastric emptying (8%) There were three in-hospital deaths (2 8%) With a mean follow-up of 55 ±6 months, there have been 30 additional deaths, 23 of which were related to disease progression The overall 2-, 5-, and 10-year actuarial survival rates were 82%, 65%, and 47%, respectively The 5-year survival for patients with functional tumors was 77% compared to 52% for those with nonfunctional tumors (P = 0 025), the 5-year survival for patients with benign tumors was 91% compared to 49% for those with malignant tumors (P = 0 0004) By univanate analysis the most powerful predictor of poor outcome for patients with malignant tumors (n = 60) was positive surgiad margins (P = 0 006) This single-institution experience documents low mortality and moderate morbidity for patients treated operatively for pancreatic and penpancreaac neuroendocrine tumors The most favorable outcomes are observed in patients with benign functional tumors and in those with completely resected malignant tumors
What is said

Abstract A misunderstanding of Grice's distinction between saying and implicating leads at least one theorist to misconstrue the pragmatics/semantics distinction. I clarify the Gricean picture, hoping to shed light on debates about the relationship between pragmatics and semantics. This paper begins with a presentation of Grice's theoretical distinction between saying and implicating, emphasizing its grounding in the intuitive distinction between conveying something literally and directly, and merely suggesting or hinting it. I point out that some—perhaps most—followers of Grice believe that, in some way, what is implicated depends on what is said. F. Recanati (Recanati, Francois, 1993. Direct Reference: From Language to Thought. Blackwell, Oxford, UK.) is one example. The thought seems to be that the hearer in a conversation needs to use what is said in a calculation to determine what is implicated. After speculating that Griceans who accept the dependency claim are unduly focused on literal uses of language, I argue that the dependency claim is mistaken. Rejecting dependency undermines Recanati's argument for a particular way of separating semantics from pragmatics. I conclude by exploring how what is said and what is implicated may be construed without dependency.
Diffusion in Microporous Membranes: Measurements and Modeling

Permeation of gases and vapors through microporous membranes, principally zeolite membranes, is reviewed, focusing on macroscopic diffusion models, measurement techniques, and applications of models to experimental data. Brief reference is made to the choice of adsorption isotherms for single components or mixtures. Concerning diffusion, the Maxwell−Stefan (M-S) model is reviewed in some detail, as it is the one universally adopted in recent literature. Emphasis is placed on the coverage dependence of the diffusion coefficients and on the proper handling of the cross terms. In the experimental technique section, the key distinctions are between steady state and transient measurements, and between the use or nonuse of a sweep gas. A few special techniques are also briefly reviewed. Interpretation of transient measurements using the time lag method is reviewed in some detail, especially for coverage-dependent diffusion coefficients. Several of the studies reviewed focus on the ability of the M-S model to match the measurements, and specifically on the suitability of various simplifying approximations. Two common approximations are (i) to treat the M-S diffusion coefficients as coverage-independent and (ii) to neglect the cross terms.
Regulation of cerebellar neuronal migration and neurite outgrowth by thyroxine and 3,3',5'-triiodothyronine.

The timing of granule cell migration in the developing cerebellum is regulated by thyroid hormone. Granule cell migration depends on the recognition of extracellular neuronal guidance molecule(s), such as laminin, and this, in turn, requires cell surface adhesion molecules (integrins) that are anchored on the cell membrane by the actin cytoskeleton. While many of the actions of thyroid hormone, specifically 3,5,3′-triiodothyronine (T3), are mediated by regulated gene expression, both thyroxine (T4) and 3,3′,5′-triiodothyronine (rT3) also exert direct, positive control of the quantity of polymerized actin in cultured astrocytes without affecting gene expression. T4-dependent actin polymerization has been shown to (i) participate in the immobilization of laminin to the cell surface, (ii) help deposit laminin in the molecular layer of the developing cerebellum, and (iii) anchor integrin(s) that recognize laminin present in the extracellular matrix. In this study, we show that both T4 and rT3, but not T3, directly regulate the F-actin content of elongating neurites of cerebellar neurons. T4 and rT3 also promoted extensive granule cell migration from cerebellar explants, as well as, dense cell clustering and extensive neuronal process formation when granule cells were grown on a laminin-coated surface. Both granule cell migration and neuronal process outgrowth were markedly attenuated by the addition of integrin-blocking antibodies or binding peptides, by the absence of thyroid hormone or the presence of T3. These data suggest that the T4-dependent actin polymerization in developing neurons is necessary for these migrating cells to recognize the laminin guidance molecule, thereby providing a novel molecular mechanism for the profound influence of thyroid hormone on brain development that is independent of regulated gene expression.
Progress On Electro-Optic Devices For Fiber Optic Sensors

It is thought that the future production of fiber optic gyros and other optical sensors depend on the development of integrated optic circuits to replace the various bulk optic components and labor intensive components presently utilized in all waveguide systems. This paper will present recent data for integrated optic chips and components specifically designed and fabricated for fiber optic sensor applications.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effects of estrogen upon feeding inhibition produced by intragastric glucose loads.

Abstract Two studies were performed to determine if estrogen could potentiate the inhibitory effects of glucose on feeding behavior. In the first experiment, ovariectomized rats were injected with either 6 μg of estradiol benzoate (EB) or with sesame oil, and two days later were given 5 ml intragastric loads of either 40% glucose or 13.5% urea by gavage. Gavage was performed after a 12-hr fast, during the light period. Food intake (FI) was measured at hourly intervals, starting 2 hr after gavage and reaccess to food as well as daily throughout the experiment. In a second experiment, rats received a similar treatment, except that gavage was performed in an unfasted condition, during the dark period. It was found that (1) a 12-hr fast abolishes anorexic effects of EB, but leaves the inhibitory effects of glucose intact, (2) EB does not potentiate short-term effects of glucose, and (3) EB enhances delayed (22 hr after gavage) effects of glucose upon feeding. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that EB modified the long-term control of feeding behavior, probably at the level of the ventromedial hypothalamus.
Statistical Perturbation Theory of Order–Disorder Ferroelectrics: Zeroth Approximation

Approximate spin-wave energies are calculated by constructing approximate eigenvalues of the commutator operator [H, ]. One linearizes commutators by replacing the Z spin operator by its expectation 〈Z〉 and then determines the latter self-consistently. Such a calculation is discussed for the Blinc formulation of the Slater-Takagi-Senko model of KH2PO4 which is treated by a coordinate rotation similar to that used by DeGennes. For sufficiently large tunneling of protons on hydrogen bonds, the rotation angle will approach π/2 at a temperature defining a second-order transition. If tunneling is weak, the transition is first-order, unless there is no tunneling. In the latter case, the model reduces to that of the Weiss molecular field, and the transition is again of second order.
Effect of Porosity on Photocatalytic Activity of Plasma-Sprayed TiO 2 Coating

The effect of porosity on photocatalytic activity of plasma-sprayed TiO2 coating on steel substrate is studied by varying processing parameters viz. plasma power and powder feed rate. The relationship between porosity content and methylene blue (MB) dye decomposition rate was established to correlate coating microstructure and its photocatalytic activity. The coating with the highest porosity content exhibited best photocatalytic efficiency. The same processing parameters were used to deposit TiO2 coating on FTO glass. The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 coating on FTO was 2.5 times better than TiO2 coating on the steel substrate. TiO2 coating on FTO glass contains bimodal porosity distribution (micropores and submicron pores) which accelerated MB decomposition by accelerated diffusion of ionic species.
ON THE PAST AND FUTURE OF NULL HYPOTHESIS SIGNIFICANCE TESTING1

Criticisms of null hypothesis significance testing (NHST) have appeared recently in wildlife research journals (Anderson, Burnham, & Thompson, 2000; Anderson, Link, Johnson, & Burnham, 2001; Cherry, 1998; Guthery, Lusk, & Peterson, 2001; Johnson, 1999). In this essay we discuss these criticisms with regard to both current usage of NHST and plausible future use. We suggest that the historical usage of such procedures was not unreasonable and hence that current users might spend time profitably reading some of Fisher's applied work. However, we also believe that modifications to NHST and to the interpretations of its outcomes might better suit the needs of modern science. Our primary conclusion is that NHST is most often useful as an adjunct to other results (e.g., effect sizes) rather than as a stand-alone result. We cite some examples, however, where NHST can be profitably used alone. Last, we find considerable experimental support for a less slavish attitude toward the precise value of the probability yielded from such procedures.
A prototype 0.5 tesla whole body imaging magnet system

A prototype superconducting 0.5-T/1-m bore whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system recently completed by GA Technologies Inc. for Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries (IHI) is described. The magnet system makes use of the following key features: a precision-wound, profiled, 250-A coil, which exhibits high inherent field uniformity ( approximately 100 p.p.m./50 cm DSV); superconducting shim coils, which allow uniformity without passive bore shims; a novel cold mass support system for omnidirectional 5-g support with low heat leak; two concentric heat shields, cooled by an integral Gifford-McMahon two-stage refrigerator, yielding a net helium boiloff at 0.1 L/h with no liquid-nitrogen system; mechanically retractable, thermally decoupling current leads; and low-current-drift persistent-mode operation (0.085 p.p.m./h), with an internal protection circuit. >
V-band traveling wave tube design and analysis

Summary form only given. The need for millimeter-wave amplification and its application has been grown rapidly in conjunction with millimeter-wave solid state device development and advancement in microfabrication techniques. This paper present design and analysis of a V-band millimeter-wave traveling wave tube amplifier. Two different slow wave structures (SWS), tunneladder and folded waveguide, are thoroughly analyzed using 3D electromagnetic field simulators. Design parameters including dispersion relation and interaction impedance are introduced. Output performance prediction is made by small and large signal analysis.
Pharmacokinetics of Valerenic Acid After Single and Multiple Doses of Valerian in Older Women

Insomnia is a commonly reported clinical problem with as many as 50% of older adults reporting difficulty in falling and/or remaining asleep. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a commonly used herb that has been advocated for promoting sleep. Valerenic acid is used as a marker for quantitative analysis of valerian products with evidence of pharmacological activity relevant to the hypnotic effects of valerian. The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics of valerenic acid in a group of elderly women after receiving a single nightly valerian dose and after 2 weeks of valerian dosing. There was not a statistically significant difference in the average peak concentration (C(max)), time to maximum concentration (T(max)) area under the time curve (AUC), elimination half-life (T(1/2)) and oral clearance after a single dose compared with multiple dosing. There was considerable inter- and intra-subject variability in the pharmacokinetic parameters. C(max) and AUC deceased and T(1/2) increased with increased body weight. The variability between the capsules was extremely low: 2.2%, 1.4% and 1.4%, for hydroxyvalerenic acid, acetoxyvalerenic acid and valerenic acid, respectively. In conclusion, large variability in the pharmacokinetics of valerenic acid may contribute to the inconsistencies in the effect of valerian as a sleep aid.
Electropollution or Sustainable Energy? [AP-S Turnstile]

Electropollution n. Nonionizing electromagnetic radiation propagated through the atmosphere by broadcast towers, radar installations, and microwave appliances, and the magnetic fields surrounding electrical appliances and power lines, which is believed to have polluting effects on people and the environment; also called electromagnetic smog.
Calculation of the surface-plasmon dispersion relation

Abstract The surface-plasmon dispersion relation for a metal is computed within the quantummechanical random-phase approximation by the use of a variational principle. The metal surface is approximated by a step potential, and the calculation is carried out for electronic densities and work functions that correspond to the experimental values found for Al, Be, Mg, and Na. The dispersion relation is compared to the experimental results for Al and Mg and found to be in much better agreement with experiment than the relation computed for a semi-infinite electron gas. For all the metals considered the dispersion relation exhibits a minimum for non-zero momenta; this implies that processes involving two surface plasmons could measurably affect the optical properties of metal surfaces.
Flexible and tunable silicon photonic devices

We demonstrate flexible silicon photonic devices, including ring resonators and Mach-Zehnder interferometers, by transferring from SOI wafer to PDMS. Optical characteristics of these devices could be tuned by deforming the flexible substrate.
FLUOROMETRIC EVIDENCE FOR FLAVINS IN ISOLATED EYESPOTS OF EUGLENA GRACILIS VAR. BACILLARIS

— Fluorometric evidence suggesting the presence of flavins in isolated eyespots of Euglena gracilis var. bacillaris is reported for the first time. Fluorescence spectra of eyespots and flavin standards show maxima at 540nm and 530nm, respectively. Excitation spectra show matching major peaks at 360–370 nm and at 450nm. The addition of riboflavin standard to eyespot samples increases fluorescence intensity without major corresponding shifts in wavelength maxima. Photolysis of eyespot samples in the presence of EDTA effects a decrease in the fluorescence intensity; the fluorescence is quantitatively restored to its initial value by bubbling the photolyzed solution with air. Preliminary quantitative data, obtained by fluorescence measurements, indicate the presence of ca. 5 × 10-4μg flavin/ml eyespot sample. While flavins have been hypothesized to be components of the photoreceptor system, they have been reported previously only in the paraflagellar bodies of intact cells. Emission and excitation data obtained by us for eyespots are similar to those previously reported by other investigators for paraflagellar bodies, but our studies now suggest the presence of flavins also in Euglena eyespots.
Power-Pulse Thrombolysis and Stent Recanalization for Acute Post-Liver Transplant Iliocaval Venous Thrombosis

Postoperative inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis is a potentially lethal complication in a liver transplant recipient. We report the case of a 57-year-old liver transplant recipient, who developed acute, postoperative, markedly symptomatic complete IVC, ilial-femoral-caval, and left renal vein thrombosis. After treatment with power-pulse tissue plasminogen activator thrombolysis, thrombectomy, and stent placement, the IVC and iliac veins were successfully recanalized. At 2.5-year imaging and laboratory follow-up, the IVC, iliac, and renal veins remained patent and graft function was preserved.
Superconducting fountain effect

An effect analogous to the fountain effect in superfluid helium has been observed in a superconductor for the first time. A temperature gradient across a Pb-Pb point-contact junction produced a small supercurrent, which was detected by measuring the asymmetry of the critical current.
Comparison of posterior internal anal sphincter myectomy and intrasphincteric botulinum toxin injection for treatment of internal anal sphincter achalasia: a meta-analysis

Purpose Internal anal sphincter (IAS) achalasia is a clinical condition with presentation similar to Hirschsprung’s disease, but with the presence of ganglion cells on rectal suction biopsy (RSB). The diagnosis is made by anorectal manometry (ARM), which demonstrates the absence of the rectosphincteric reflex on rectal balloon inflation. The recommended treatment of choice is posterior IAS myectomy. Recently, intrasphincteric botulinum toxin (Botox) injection has been effectively used for treatment of IAS achalasia. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy of posterior IAS myectomy with intrasphincteric Botox injection for treatment of IAS achalasia.
Antifungal Activity of Some Amides of Dichloroacetaldehyde and Bromal

The fungus-inhibiting properties of a series of amides of dichloroacetaldehyde and bromal were studied. Three of the compounds showed antifungal activity when subjected to tests with Aspergillus niger and Tricboderma viride. Terminal chlorine atoms appeared to be a factor in enhancing the antifungal activity.
Effect of a controlled high-fat versus low-fat diet on insulin sensitivity and leptin levels in African-American and Caucasian women

African-American women have been shown to be more insulin-resistant than age- and weight-matched Caucasian women, but the reasons for this difference are unclear. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether experimental manipulation of dietary fat intake has differential effects by race on insulin sensitivity (SI) in 20 African-American and 11 Caucasian women. Additionally, leptin levels before and after 3 weeks of an isocaloric high-fat ([HF] 50% fat, 35% carbohydrate, and 15% protein) or low-fat ([LF] 20% fat, 55% carbohydrate, and 15% protein) diet were compared. African-American and Caucasian women did not differ significantly in the body mass index (BMI) or percentage body fat at baseline. SI (adjusted for BMI) decreased on the HF diet and increased on the LF diet in both races combined relative to the baseline control (control, 2.42 ± 0.22; HF, 2.29 ± 0.22; LF, 2.75 ± 0.21 × 10−4 min−1/μU · mL; main effect of diet, P = .04). There was a 6% decrease in SI on the HF diet compared with the control in women of both races, while the LF diet increased SI by 6% in African-American and 20% in Caucasian women. Leptin levels increased by 14% on the HF versus control diet in African-Americans (35.2 ± 3.0 v 30.8 ± 3.0 ng/mL, P < .01), but did not change with diet in Caucasian women. Glucose and insulin administration had no effect on leptin levels. We conclude that a HF diet consumed over several weeks reduces SI in healthy women of both races; however, the magnitude of increase in SI on a LF diet is greater in Caucasian women. The HF diet significantly increased leptin levels in African-American women, although there were no other influences of diet, insulin, or race on serum leptin.
Hardware-in-the-loop infrared projector technology

This paper will provide an overview of the critical Infrared (IR) projector requirements and specifications for Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) simulations of imaging IR systems and will review the most prominent technologies associated with IR scene projection. Each method will be briefly discussed in terms of physical operation with all relevant advantages and disadvantages being highlighted. A comparison will be provided of the different categories of projection devices for applicability to HWIL simulation.
Adrenal steroid hormone concentrations in dogs with hair cycle arrest (Alopecia X) before and during treatment with melatonin and mitotane

The purpose of the study was to evaluate intermediate adrenal steroid hormones (ISH) in neutered dogs with hair cycle arrest (Alopecia X) during treatment with melatonin, and to see if hair re-growth is associated with sex hormone concentrations within the normal ranges. Twenty-nine neutered, euthyroid, and normo-cortisolemic dogs were enrolled in the study (23 Pomeranians, three keeshonds, two miniature poodles, and one Siberian husky). Coat assessment and an ACTH stimulation test were performed pre-treatment and approximately every 4 months for a year post treatment. Melatonin was administered initially at 3-6 mg, every 12 h. Based on clinical progression, each dog was continued on the current dose of melatonin, given an increased dose of melatonin or changed to mitotane. Partial to complete hair re-growth occurred in 14/23 Pomeranians, and partial re-growth in 3/3 keeshond and 1/2 poodle dogs. A Siberian husky dog failed to re-grow hair. Fifteen dogs had partial hair re-growth at the first re-evaluation. Melatonin dosage was increased in eight dogs but only one had improved hair re-growth. On mitotane treatment, partial to complete hair re-growth was seen in 4/6 dogs and no re-growth in 2/6 dogs. No significant decrease in sex hormone concentrations were seen during melatonin or mitotane treatment. Concentrations of ISH in dogs with hair re-growth did not differ significantly from pre-treatment values. At the completion of the study, androstenedione, progesterone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone were still above reference ranges in 21, 64 and 36%, respectively, of dogs with partial to complete hair re-growth. In conclusion, 62% of dogs had partial to complete hair re-growth. However, not all dogs with hair re-growth had concentrations of ISH within the normal range.
Hazards of process regulations. The example of methadone maintenance.

ACCORDING TO Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary , one definition of a guideline is a "rope to aid a passer over a difficult point." For a person walking a treacherous path in the mountains, grasping a guideline is sensible if the rope is well anchored and leads in the right direction. As an administrative metaphor, the implication is that guidelines for methadone programs are designed to be helpful to physicians making clinical decisions under conditions of uncertainty. Ideally they would generalize the experience of the most successful practitioners and provide guidance in such matters as optimal dosage, expectation of the length of treatment, and indications for supplementary services. Regulations are quite a different matter in both source and intent. As commands issued by an authority with power to punish, they are intended to deter wrongdoing and ensure conformity. Like speed limits, they are directed to a population of potential violators and
Grass Invasions Across a Regional Gradient are Associated with Declines in Belowground Carbon Pools

The composition of plant communities everywhere now likely comprises alien as well as native species, and those aliens that become invasive have wide-ranging impacts on the structure and function of recipient ecosystems. These impacts include perturbations to soil carbon (C) cycling, but the direction and magnitude of impacts are species and climate dependent, making it difficult to generalize whether a specific invader will promote losses or gains in soil C stocks. Generalizations of a specific invader’s impacts are necessary; however, because the range of an invader can encompass thousands of square kilometers, meaning their effects can have broad, regional consequences. To quantify broad-scale and context-dependent impacts of a specific invader, multi-site investigations that capture and measure local and regional environmental heterogeneity are necessary. Using this approach, we show that a widespread grass invader of forest understories is associated with declines in soil C during infilling (spreading within the invaded range). Across the 36 study sites, total soil C stocks declined (P = 0.113) by approximately 12% (estimated mean ± SD, uninvaded: 2,429 ± 512.9 vs. invaded: 2,140 ± 520.7 g C m−2). The decline in total soil C is driven by a significant (P = 0.047) reduction in the native-derived, mineral-associated soil C fraction. This fraction, whose mass and slow turnover makes it an important C store, is approximately 15% lower in invaded (estimated mean ± SD: 1,560 ± 400.4 g C m−2) than uninvaded plots (1,826 ± 398.1 g C m−2). Notably, declines in this C fraction are only apparent at 21 of the sites, reflecting how environmental heterogeneity in other variables (specifically pH, soil moisture, and clay content) are important to quantify to determine invader impacts across a region. The 26% decline in microbial biomass with invasion (P = 0.011; estimated mean ± SD, uninvaded: 10.05 ± 1.79 vs. invaded: 7.40 ± 1.80 g C m−2) is also dependent on site characteristics (pH), and reductions are greater where the invader occurs at higher densities. Reductions in microbial biomass and soil C with invasion suggest that grass invasion will alter soil C cycling and decrease forest-C stores across the study region, although invader effects at a specific-site will be dependent on environmental context.
Infinite-word languages and continuous mappings

Abstract Languages with infinite words have often been studied as subsets of a topological space. The topology used for this purpose was always the natural topology of sequences. This paper suggests that another topology may be more useful. It is obtained by taking Lim( W ) as the derived set of W . The resulting topological space is shown to be completely regular, strongly zero-dimensional, and not normal. The languages appearing in the theory of ω-automata are shown to be closely related to functionally closed sets (continuous inverse images of the set {0}). As a consequence, a number of known results can be expressed and proved in terms of continuous mappings.
Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) Meal, a Substitute for Alfalfa Meal in Chick Starter Rations

Abstract ALFALFA leaf meal and alfalfa meal have long been the standard green feeds in poultry rations that are fed in the Temperate Zone. Commercial poultry enterprises in the tropics and subtropics also depend upon imported alfalfa. One may well wonder at this situation when one looks at the lush vegetation and continuous growth of plant life in the tropics. Surely, among the numerous legumes and grass species that abound, some plants might be raised economically that can replace alfalfa in poultry rations. Feeding trials have been conducted with certain tropical legumes. Quisenberry (1946) found that koa haole (Leucaena glauca) leaf meal effectively replaced imported and Hawaii-produced alfalfa meals when when it was fed to young chicks at 5 percent of total ration. He reported that koa haole leaf meal contained nearly twice as much carotene as alfalfa leaf meal similarly harvested and dried. Growth was depressed, however, when this meal …
A pipe-based, first approach to modeling closed conduit flow in caves

Abstract A closed conduit model is constructed for a discrete cave segment using the energy equation and the assumption that energy losses in the segment are generated by large-scale flow separation associated with expansions and bends. As employed, the model uses paleostage indicators and passage geometry to estimate total head loss across the study reach. Channel roughness is estimated using pipe-based equations and a skin friction factor estimated from secondary means. Discharge is varied in the model until calculated head loss matches observed head loss. The model is employed to estimate discharge for a flood recorded in Buckeye Creek Cave, West Virginia as high water marks consisting of silt lines. Under varying assumptions, the model yields paleodischarges in the range of 22–29 m 3 s −1 . Shear stress values calculated using model output are in general agreement with the size distribution of gravel on the stream bed and shear stress values are relatively insensitive to changes in discharge. The apparent friction factor for the study reach is estimated to be in the range of 0.4–0.7, which is in general agreement with previous studies of large conduits. The model is applicable to similar cave reaches, but requires further testing and validation because so little is known about conduit flow in karst.
Differences in wear between load and displacement control tested total knee replacements

Abstract Two identical sets of posterior cruciate retaining total knee replacements were tested for wear on one contemporary knee joint simulator according to the current ISO standards. The first set of implants was tested in load control mode (ISO 14243-1), while the second set was tested in displacement control mode (ISO 14243-3). The type of control mode alludes to the feedback signal of anterior–posterior and internal–external degrees of freedom. Resulting wear scars and rates between the different control mode tests were compared. Significant differences in wear rates were found: the wear rates in displacement control were approximately half of the wear rates in load control mode. This result was mirrored in the wear scars, which were significantly different in size on the medial plateau. Comparing wear rate with wear scar size (area) yielded a positive correlation. Analyzing the motion data of the two tests revealed similar ranges of movement in anterior–posterior translation and internal–external rotation, however the time-scale of the rotational movements differed between the two control types, explaining the differences in wear. This study demonstrated that substantial variability in wear outcome is possible depending on the type of control mode. Future revisions of testing directions should incorporate more implant specific test parameters to produce clinically relevant wear results.
The effect of temperature on hand function in patients with tremor

Hand therapists may notice a patient's tremor when treating another diagnostic problem, such as arthritis or a fracture. In these instances, the tremor may become apparent as the patient attempts to don or doff a splint or to practice a home exercise program, or it may be reported in terms of difficulty with dressing or eating. The authors hypothesized that limb cooling would temporarily improve hand function among patients with essential tremor (ET) and that limb warming would temporarily improve hand function among patients with resting tremor secondary to Parkinson disease (PD). Twenty patients with ET and 20 patients with PD completed this single-blind randomized crossover study. Scores following exposure to cold water were compared with scores following exposure to warm water. For patients with ET, subtest scores for the Archimedes spiral, simulated feeding, and checkers were, statistically, significantly lower (i.e., improved) following exposure to cold water than following exposure to warm water; scores for Archimedes spiral card turning, simulated feeding, and checkers were significantly lower following exposure to cold water than at baseline. Scores for Archimedes spiral and card turning were also significantly lower following exposure to warm water than at baseline. For patients with PD, no statistically significant differences were noted between treatments or from baseline except the score for small common objects, which was lower (improved) following exposure to warm water than at baseline. The significant findings from this study support the therapeutic use of cooling to temporarily decrease tremor, thereby improving hand function among patients with ET.
The Relationship between Nucleoside Analogue Treatment Duration, Insulin Resistance, and Fasting Arterialized Lactate Level in Patients with HIV Infection

BACKGROUND Treatment with nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) is associated with hyperlactatemia, presumably as a result of NRTI-induced mitochondrial toxicity. We examined the association of NRTI treatment duration and lactate level in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients and assessed the relationship of treatment duration and lactate level with insulin resistance. METHODS Fasting arterialized venous lactate levels, routine blood chemistry findings, insulin resistance (determined by homeostasis model assessment [HOMA-IR]), percentage of body fat (determined by dual-energy radiographic absorptiometry), and detailed histories of antiretroviral therapy were obtained for 95 HIV-infected individuals. The independent association of NRTI treatment duration and lactate level was examined using multivariable linear regression. RESULTS Among 95 subjects with a mean age (+/- standard deviation [SD]) of 44 +/- 8 years), 95% had NRTI exposure, with current NRTI use in 83%. The mean (+/- SD) lactate level was 1.24 +/- 0.46 mmol/L (6% had a lactate level > 2 mmol/L). Longer duration of NRTI use was positively associated with lactate level (beta = 0.047; P < .01), as were age, duration of protease inhibitor treatment, and HOMA-IR. Female sex and percentage of body fat were negatively associated with lactate level. After adjustment for age, sex, diabetes, percentage of body fat, and duration of protease inhibitor therapy, an increased duration of NRTI therapy remained significantly associated with lactate level (beta = 0.035; P = .04). However, the addition of HOMA-IR to the adjusted model attenuated the relation between duration of NRTI therapy and lactate level (beta = 0.024; P = .14), whereas HOMA-IR was significantly associated with lactate level (beta = 0.206; P < .01). Furthermore, HOMA-IR was also associated with NRTI treatment duration in adjusted analyses. CONCLUSION NRTI treatment duration was independently associated with higher lactate level, but this relationship was attenuated after adjusting for HOMA-IR. These data raise the possibility that insulin resistance may be an additional mechanism through which NRTI therapy is related to lactate level.
H, not O or pressure, causes eutectic T depression in the Fe-FeS System to 8 GPa

The Fe-FeS system maintains a eutectic temperature of 990 � 10 °C to at least 8 GPa if starting materials and pressure media are rigorously dehydrated. Literature reports of pressure-induced freezing point depression of the eutectic for the Fe-FeS system are not confirmed. Modest addition of oxygen alone is confirmed to cause negligible freezing point depression at 6 GPa. Addition of H alone causes a progressive decrease in the eutectic temperature with P in the Fe-FeS-H system to below 965 °C at 6 GPa to below 950 ° Ca t 8 GPa. It is our hypothesis that moisture contamination in unrigorously dried experiments may be an H source for freezing point depression. O released from H2O disproportionation reacts with Fe and is sequestered as ferropericlase along the sample capsules walls, leaving the H to escape the system and/or enter the Fe-FeS mixture. The observed occurrence of ferropericlase on undried MgO capsule margins is otherwise difficult to explain, because an alternate source for the oxygen in the ferropericlase layer is difficult to identify. This study questions the use of pressure-depressed Fe-S eutectic temperatures and suggests that the lower eutectic temperatures sometimes reported are achieved by moving into the ternary Fe-S-H system. These results adjust slightly the constraints on eutectic temperatures allowed for partly solidified cores on small planets. H substantially diminishes the temperature extent of the melting interval in Fe-S by reducing the melting points of the crystalline phases more than it depresses the eutectic.
Detection of Alcohol with Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanofiber (VACNF)

A reagentless amperometric enzymatic biosensor is constructed using Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanofiber (VACNF) for the detection of alcohol. Yeast alcohol dehydrogenase (YADH), and its cofactor nicotinamide adenine dinuleotide (NAD+) are immobilized by covalent attachment and adsorption to the carbon substrate. Electrochemical techniques are employed to test the function and performance of the constructed biosensor. Characterization of the electrode is performed using NADH. Subsequently, amperometric measurements are conducted with the electrodes for the detection of ethanol to determine the response of the electrical current due to an increase in analyte concentration. The detection range, storage stability, reusability, and response time of the biosensor is also examined.
High-resolution autoradiography of 3H-ouabain binding in salt transporting epithelia.

SUMMARY The distribution of salt transporting sites in epithelia is a problem of special interest to electrolyte metabolism. Autoradiography of freeze-dried plastic embedded tissue was used to localize 3H-ouabain in rabbit small intestine and renal medulla and gills of killifish. Resolution approaching theoretical limits for tritium at the light microscope level was achieved. The results of several tests are presented which demonstrate the resolution of the method and the specificity of the observed ouabain binding patterns. A large uptake of ouabain was found along the basolateral membranes of the enterocyte, thick ascending tubules and chloride cells (fish gill).
Apolipoprotein E and Lipoprotein Lipase Increase Triglyceride-Rich Particle Binding but Decrease Particle Penetration in Arterial Wall

Objective—Liver-derived apolipoprotein E (apoE) decreases atherosclerosis without altering the circulating concentrations of plasma lipoproteins. We evaluated the effects of apoE and lipoprotein lipase (LpL) on the interactions of triglyceride-rich particles (TGRPs) in the arterial wall. Methods and Results—Quantitative fluorescence microscopy was used to study the interactions of TGRPs (25- to 35-nm diameter) in the arterial wall. Carotid arteries were harvested from rats, placed in a perfusion chamber, and perfused with fluorescently labeled TGRPs. In the absence of apoE or LpL, 1,1-dioctadecyl-3,3,3,3-tetramethylindocarbocyanineTGRP (100 g neutral lipid/mL) was poorly retained in the arterial wall. The addition of either apoE (10 g/mL) or LpL (10 g/mL) increased TGRP accumulation 220% and 100%, respectively. This effect was attenuated by heparin (10.0 IU/mL). Histological analyses of cross sections from these vessels demonstrate that in the absence of apoE or LpL, there is deep penetration of lipid into the arterial wall. With the addition of either apoE or LpL, arterial wall penetration of TGRP is blocked. Conclusions—These results demonstrate that although apoE and LpL increase arterial wall accumulation of TGRPs, these proteins also reduce the penetration of TGRPs into the arterial wall. We postulate that this may represent a novel antiatherogenic property of apoE and LpL. (Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2002;22:2080-2085.)
Graph-Based Multilevel Dimensionality Reduction with Applications to Eigenfaces and Latent Semantic Indexing

Dimension reduction techniques have been successfully applied to face recognition and text information retrieval. The process can be time-consuming when the data set is large. This paper presents a multilevel framework to reduce the size of the data set, prior to performing dimension reduction. The algorithm exploits nearest-neighbor graphs. It recursively coarsens the data by finding a maximal matching level by level. The coarsened data at the lowest level is then projected using a known linear dimensionality reduction method. The same linear mapping is performed on the original data set, and on any new test data. The methods are illustrated on two applications: eigenfaces (face recognition) and latent semantic indexing (text mining). Experimental results indicate that the multilevel techniques proposed here offer a very appealing cost to quality ratio.
Autonomous automobiles: developing cars that drive themselves

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people are killed in road accidents, with millions more injured. The vast majority of these accidents are due to human error, with less than 10% caused by vehicle defects [1]. Such staggering findings motivate the use of driver assistant systems and fully autonomous vehicles to increase driver and passenger safety.This talk will explore developments in driver assistant systems and autonomous vehicles. In particular, the Urban Challenge competition will be focused on, in which fully-autonomous passenger vehicles will conduct navigation missions in urban environments. The goal of the Urban Challenge is to develop vehicles that can safely drive themselves in realistic urban settings. To succeed, the vehicles must obey traffic laws while safely merging into moving traffic, driving through traffic circles and busy intersections, and parking in parking lots.This represents a significant leap in autonomous vehicle technology and has required advances in sensing, autonomous reasoning, and semiconductor technology. This talk will discuss some of the challenges involved and will provide example results from Carnegie Mellon University's entry into the Urban Challenge.
Typhoid Rates and the Public Acquisition of Private Waterwork, 1880–1920

Progressive-Era reformers claimed typhoid, a waterborne disease, was more prevalent in cities with private water companies than in cities with public water companies. This article tests this claim for the 1880 to 1920 period. The evidence suggests private companies invested in water filters more often than public companies, and that switching from private to public provision of water did little to improve typhoid rates.