cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Implantable miniature telescope (IMT) for vision loss due to end-stage age-related macular degeneration

BACKGROUND Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) causes progressive and irreversible damage to the retina, resulting in loss of central vision. AMD is the third leading cause of irreversible visual impairment worldwide and the leading cause of blindness in industrialized countries. Since AMD is more common in older individuals, the number of affected individuals will increase significantly as the population ages. The implantable miniature telescope (IMT) is an ophthalmic device developed to improve vision in individuals who have lost vision due to AMD. Once implanted, the IMT is used to enlarge objects in the central visual field and focus them onto healthy areas of the retina not affected by AMD, allowing individuals to recognize objects that they otherwise could not see. It is unclear whether and how much the IMT can improve vision in individuals with end-stage AMD. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness and safety of the IMT in improving visual acuity and quality of life in people with late or advanced AMD. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register) (2017, Issue 11); Ovid MEDLINE; Embase.com; PubMed; LILACS; AMED; Web of Science Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science; OpenSIGLE; the metaRegister of Controlled Trials (mRCT) (last searched 27 June 2014); ClinicalTrials.gov; the ICTRP and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Medical Devices database. The date of the search was 2 November 2017, with the exception of mRCT which is no longer in service. SELECTION CRITERIA We planned to include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-randomized trials that compared the IMT versus no IMT. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed all studies for inclusion, using standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. MAIN RESULTS Our search yielded 1042 unique records. We removed irrelevant studies after screening titles and abstracts, and evaluated five full-text reports from four studies; three were non-randomized studies. There was one ongoing RCT that compared the OriLens intraocular telescope with standard low vision training in eyes with end-stage AMD. Results for this study are expected in 2020. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found no RCT or quasi-RCT and can draw no conclusion about the effectiveness and safety of the IMT in improving visual acuity in individuals with late or advanced AMD. Since the IMT is typically implanted monocularly based upon which eye has better best-corrected distance visual acuity, randomization between eyes within an individual may not be acceptable. Studies are needed that compare outcomes between individuals randomized to the device versus individuals not implanted, at least during study follow-up, who serve as controls.
An artificial life approach to language.

The aim of the paper is to show that an Artificial Life approach to language tends to change the research agenda on language which has been shared by both the symbolic paradigm and classical connectionism. Artificial Life Neural Networks (ALNNs) are different from classical connectionist networks because they interact with an independent physical environment; are subject to evolutionary, developmental, and cultural change, and not only to learning; and are part of organisms that have a physical body, have a life (are born, develop, and die), and are members of genetic and, sometimes, cultural populations. Using ALNNs to study language shifts the emphasis from research on linguistic forms and laboratory-like tasks to the investigation of the emergence and transmission of language, the use of language, its role in cognition, and language as a populational rather than as an individual phenomenon.
Concerning a density functional theory of low-frequency optical activity

Abstract It is shown that low-frequency optical activity is a universal functional of the ground state electron density. This result is obtained through the use of the Hohenberg–Kohn theorems in an accelerated reference frame. The relation of the present theory to a representation of the optical activity as the inner product of fake field-dependent Kohn–Sham orbitals is explicated, and the simplest forms of the functional are exhibited.
A Computer Language for Mathematical Program Formulation.

Abstract : Employing a Conversational Modelling Language (CML), a special computer language has been implemented to allow the specification of mathematical programming models and their parameterization. The language has been designed to be 'natural' in the mathematical programming context and to include interfaces with computer routines such as MPSX for optimization. Features implemented include equation writing, preparation of computer input, automatic checking and removal of redundancies, plus the ability to display solutions of such models given sufficient specification of decision variables. The system can prompt the user for incomplete model specification. Examples of the use of the language in building interactive decision support systems are given. (Author)
The geochemistry of trace metals in the Brazos River estuary

Abstract A seasonal study of trace metal behavior and transport in the Brazos River estuary was conducted in the winter, spring and fall of 1981. Surface water was analyzed for total dissolved Pb, Cu, Mn and Fe, and particulate Cd, Pb, Cu, Mn and Fe. Ancillary data included river discharge, total suspended matter, pH, major ions, nutrients, dissolved and particulate organic carbon and humic acid. The major ions were generally conservative across the river water-seawater mixing zone; however, a significant input of alkalinity and Ca was measured in the spring, attributable to cation exchange on clays and sediment diagenetic processes. Distinct concentration maxima were found in the 3–10‰ chlorinity range for dissolved Pb (0·06–0·9 n m ), Cu (6–42 n m ), Mn (2–290 n m ) and Fe (5–80 n m ). Particulate metal concentrations showed significant seasonal and spatial variations: Cd, 0·09–0·57 ppm; Pb, 15–43 ppm; Cu, 12–32 ppm; Mn, 250–1990 ppm and Fe 0·5–5·4%. Reducing conditions leading to diagenetic remobilization in estuarine sediments are proposed to be an important source of dissolved metals for estuarine water. Calculations of dissolved riverine metal transport to the ocean that include estuarine metal input are as much as 40 times greater than when estuarine processes are ignored.
Prediction of defibrillation outcome by epicardial activation patterns following shocks near the defibrillation threshold.

Activation Patterns and Defibrillation Outcome. Introduction: Ventricular defibrillation is probabilistic and shock strength dependent. We investigated the relationship between defibrillation outcome and postshock activation patterns for shocks of the same strength (-50% probability of success for defibrillation [ED50] to yield an equal number of successful and failed shocks). Methods and Results: In five pigs, 10 shocks of ED50 strength (right ventricle-superior vena cava, biphasic, 6/4 msec) were delivered after 10 seconds of ventricular fibrillation (VF). Epicardial activation sequences following shocks were mapped with a 504-electrode stock and analyzed by animating dV/dt of the electrograms. Intercycle interval (ICI. time between the onset of successive postshock cycles), wavefront conduction time (WCT, time between the earliest and latest activation of a cycle), and overlapping index (WCT of cycle[n]/ICI of cycle[n+1]) were determined for the first five postshock cycles. An overlapping index > 1 indicates overlap between successive cycles. Of 50 defibrillation attempts, 25 were successes. There was no difference between successful and failed episodes for both ICI (68 ± 9 msec vs 62 ± 10 msec) and WCT (97 ± 24 msec vs 100 ± 14 msec) of cycle 1. However, starting at cycle 2, the ICI was longer, and the WCT was shorter for successful than failed episodes (P 1) were found during the transition from cycles 2 through 5 in all failed (index >1) and in no successful episodes. Conclusions: (1) Defibrillation outcome cannot be determined during the first postshock cycle. (2) At least three rapid successive cycles with overlap of cycles 2 and 3 are present in all failed and in no successful episodes. (3) The overlapping index is a marker to predict defibrillation outcome.
High-Level Packaging Options for Outdoor Remote Units

Thermal performance of three high-level packaging options for natural convection and radiation cooled outdoor remote units was investigated in this work. Analytical correlations were used to determine required number and size of the fins. Then, a computational fluid dynamic simulation tool was used to investigate detailed thermal performance of three packaging options with the limitation that they use same fin and base areas. It was shown that all three designs perform almost the same if solar load is applied on the unit. However, the cube design performs worse than the narrow-deep and wide-slim designs if no solar load is applied.
Electron-beam analysis of polymerized KC60.

We have conducted high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and electron-energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) studies on polymerized ${\mathrm{KC}}_{60}$. The chainlike structure proposed for the polymerized material is confirmed. Lattice constants extracted from the HRTEM images are consistent with those determined earlier by x-ray diffraction. The fine structure in the EELS spectrum of ${\mathrm{KC}}_{60}$ shows the ${\mathit{sp}}^{2}$ nature of the carbon bonds along with features which distinguish the bonding in this alkali fulleride from that of other fullerenes. Both the HRTEM and EELS studies show that polymerized ${\mathrm{KC}}_{60}$ is exceedingly resilient against damage induced by a 200-keV electron beam, in sharp contrast to the behavior of pristine ${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Non-critical superstrings

Abstract We construct “space-time” supersymmetric non-critical string theories. They interpolate between the non-critical c theories and the critical superstring, thus penetrating the c =1 barrier. If the matter is unitary, the theories are free of tachyons and the world-sheet is stable. We discuss some of the properties of these theories.
Angiotensin II Regulates Cardiac Myocyte Protein Synthesis by Activation of Elongation Factor 2

Angiotensin II Regulates Cardiac Myocyte Protein Synthesis by Activation of Elongation Factor 2
Identification of Protein Kinases Dysregulated in CD4+ T Cells in Pathogenic versus Apathogenic Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Human immunodeficiency virus infection in humans and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection in rhesus macaques (RM) leads to a generalized loss of immune responses involving perturbations in T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling. In contrast, naturally SIV-infected sooty mangabeys (SM) remain asymptomatic and retain immune responses despite relatively high viral loads. However, SIV infection in both RM and SM led to similar decreases in TCR-induced Lck phosphorylation. In this study, a protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) differential display method was utilized to characterize the effects of in vivo SIV infection on key signaling molecules of the CD4+ T-cell signaling pathways. The CD4+ T cells from SIV-infected RM, but not SIV-infected SM, showed chronic downregulation of baseline expression of MLK3, PRK, and GSK3, and symptomatically SIV-infected RM showed similar downregulation of MKK3. In vitro TCR stimulation with or without CD28 costimulation of CD4+ T cells did not lead to the enhancement of gene transcription of these PTKs. While the CD4+ T cells from SIV-infected RM showed a significant increase of the baseline and anti-TCR-mediated ROR2 transcription, SIV infection in SM led to substantially decreased anti-TCR-stimulated ROR2 transcription. TCR stimulation of CD4+ T cells from SIV-infected RM (but not SIV-infected SM) led to the repression of CaMKKβ and the induction of gene transcription of MLK2. Studies of the function of these molecules in T-cell signaling may lead to the identification of potential targets for specific intervention, leading to the restoration of T-cell responses.
Declining incidence of wound infection in cadaveric renal transplant recipient

Abstract Over a five-year period 100 cadaveric renal transplants were performed. In 91 of these recipients, a prophylactic parenteral antibiotic (cefoperazone) was administered and closed wound drainage was used. Of these 91 patients, 33 received azathioprinelprednisone immunosuppression, whereas cyclosporinelprednisone with or without azathioprine was used in the remaining 58. The incidence of wound infections was significantly reduced from 12 per cent (4/33) in the azathioprine group to 1.7 per cent (1/58) in the cyclosporine group (p
Investigating the filled gel model in Cheddar cheese through use of Sephadex beads

Cheese can be modeled as a filled gel whereby milkfat globules are dispersed in a casein gel network. We determined the filler effects using Sephadex beads (GE Healthcare Life Sciences, Pittsburgh, PA) as a model filler particle. Ideally, such a model could be used to test novel filler particles to replace milkfat in low-fat cheese. Low-filler (6% particles), reduced-filler (16%), and full-filler (33%) cheeses were produced using either Sephadex beads of varying sizes (20 to 150 μm diameter) or milkfat. Small- and large-strain rheological tests were run on each treatment at 8, 12, and 18 wk after cheese manufacturing. Differences in rheological properties were caused primarily by the main effects of filler volume and type (milkfat vs. Sephadex), whereas filler size had no obvious effect. All treatments showed a decrease in deformability and an increase in firmness as filler volume increased above 25%, although the beads exhibited a greater reinforcing effect and greater energy recovery than milkfat.
The spiritual in artificial life: Recombining science and religion in a computational culture medium

(1997). The spiritual in artificial life: Recombining science and religion in a computational culture medium. Science as Culture: Vol. 6, No. 3, pp. 363-395.
An experimental review of the decays of the Ds meson

Abstract In this paper I review the current experimental knowledge of the decays of the D s meson. I compare D s properties to those predicted from recent comprehensive D meson decay models that are based on the better measured charmed isodoublet (D 0 , D + ).
PATTERN FORMATION IN SOLID FILM GROWTH DURING CVD

This paper deals with the evolution of a gas-solid interface during growth of amorphous CVD films. The aim of the analysis is to show that a comprehensive gas-solid CVD model may simplify significantly under conditions of two limiting cases: kinetic and diffusion-limited growth. The linear stability behavior of the simplified model was found to be almost identical to that of the original and more comprehensive model. It was found that planar film growth was inherently stable under kinetically controlled deposition conditions, but under diffusion-limited conditions, planar film stability depended on the magnitude of the dimensionless group 9Pe, which represents a Damkdhler number of deposition. Numerical solution of the simplified model showed that an increase in 9pe adversely affected the uniformity of film deposition. Predicted morphological phenomena were found to be very similar to experimental observations (Viljoen, et al,1994).
Parasite-induced alteration of odour responses in an amphipod-acanthocephalan system.

Abstract Odour-related behaviours in aquatic invertebrates are important and effective anti-predator behaviours. Parasites often alter invertebrate host behaviours to increase transmission to hosts. This study investigated the responses of the amphipod Hyalella azteca when presented with two predator chemical cues: (i) alarm pheromones produced by conspecifics and (ii) kairomones produced by a predatory Green Sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus). We compared the responses of amphipods uninfected and infected with the acanthocepalan parasite Leptorhynchiodes thecatus. Uninfected amphipods reduced activity and increased refuge use after detecting both the alarm pheromones and predator kairomones. Infected amphipods spent significantly more time being active and less time on the refuge than uninfected amphipods, and behaved as if they had not detected the chemical stimulus. Therefore, L. thecatus infections disrupt the amphipods’ anti-predator behaviours and likely make their hosts more susceptible to predation.
Repellency of N,N-Diethyl-M-Toluamide (Deet) and 2-Hydroxyethyl Cyclohexanecarboxylate Against the Deer Flies Chrysops Atlanticus Pechuman and Chrysops Flavidus Wiedemann

A new repellent, 2-hydroxyethyl cyclohexanecarboxylate (HECC), was as much as 20 times more effective than N,N -diethyl- M -toluamide (deet) against the deer fly Chrysops atlanticus Pechuman and 1.6 times more effective against Chrysops flavidus Wiedemann in a series of 4 field tests. Mixtures containing the 2 repellents were always more effective than deet alone.
A method for measuring some components of the pursuit rotor skill.

A pursuit rotor for measuring some components of skill is described and sample data reported.
Unusual cycloaddition of an unsaturated nitrone to a vinylogous ester

Abstract The anomalous addition of α-dichloro-N-cyclohexylpropanaldonitrone (1) to the carbonyl of quinoidal, vinylogous ester 2 is reported.
Callachaca: Style and Status in an Inca Community

Callachaca: Style and Status in an Inca Community. Susan A. Niles. Iowa City: University of Iowa Press, 1987. 264pp. $29.95 (cloth). ISBN 0–87745–177-X.
Towards a Modular 32 x 32 Pixel Stimulator for Retinal Prosthesis

Future retinal prosthesis requires more stimulation sites to restore vision to the level of independent mobility, large print reading and facial recognition. This paper presents a modular design of a 1024 pixel retinal stimulator. The individual module consists of 64 drivers, chosen to optimize the system. The circuit design and the layout of the 64-driver module are presented. The chip is currently under fabrication in 0.35-?m CMOS. The digital controller block for the chip is currently being designed and will be integrated with this driver chip in the future.
A questionnaire for assessing environmental tobacco smoke exposure

Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) has been associated with adverse health consequences. In this study, the association between self-reported ETS exposure and serum cotinine levels was examined. As part of the population-based Epidemiology of Hearing Loss Study in Beaver Dam, WI, self-reported data on ETS were obtained at the 5-year follow-up examination (1998-2000; n = 2800). Serum cotinine levels were obtained on 643 of these participants (53-75 years old). Serum cotinine levels increased with reported number of hours of recent ETS exposure. Most (95.3%) participants who reported being smokers had serum cotinine levels >15 ng/mL, compared with only 2.7% of nonsmokers. Usual ETS exposure among nonsmokers was assessed with a brief questionnaire quantifying exposure at work, at home, and in social settings, and then classified into three levels of exposure. Those reporting little or no exposure had a geometric mean cotinine level of 0.06 ng/mL (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.05, 0.07), compared with 0.14 (95% CI: 0.09, 0.22) and 0.63 (95% CI: 0.36, 1.10) for those reporting moderate and high ETS exposure, respectively (F-test for trend: P < 0.001). These results suggest that the questionnaire can be used to distinguish relative levels of exposure to ETS.
Mass Dependence in Gravitational Collapse of Stellar Cores

Mass dependence of behavior of stellar core undergoing gravitational collapse examined, using improved equation of state and mean free path for energy transfer
Association between baseline levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and a dinucleotide repeat polymorphism in the intron of the CRP gene

Elevation of baseline C-reactive protein (CRP) is associated with increased risk of cardiac disease. This increase might reflect low-grade inflammation, but differences in CRP serum levels might also have a genetic component. To test this possibility, we investigated whether a polymorphic GT-repeat in the intron of the CRP gene contributes to variation in baseline CRP. We found that the polymorphism was associated with differences in baseline CRP in both normal individuals and in patients with the inflammatory disease systemic lupus erythematosus, viz. donors carrying two GT16 alleles, two GT21alleles, or GT16/21 heterozygotes had two-fold lower serum CRP than those with other genotypes. The frequency of GT16 and GT21 was two-fold higher in Caucasians than in African-Americans, but there was no difference in allele distribution between patients and controls. It is not yet known how this genetic polymorphism mediates its effect on CRP expression, and it probably is not a systemic lupus erythematosus susceptibility factor. Rather, the CRP intron polymorphism likely modifies the disease phenotype. On the other hand, the fact that baseline CRP does have a genetic component suggests that in coronary disease, stratification of risk assessment based on CRP levels might be enhanced by consideration of this polymorphism.
Formation constants of cu2+ complexes with humic and fulvic acids

Abstract Formation constants for Cu 2+ complexes with humic and fulvic acids were determined by a modification of the well-known Bjerrum potentiometric titration method. Highly stable complexes were formed with formation constants of the order of those observed for synthetic polycarboxylic acids. Overall formation constants for a two-step process ( B 2 ) ranged from 2.5 · 10 −4 to 7.9 · 10 −3 .
The Career Course as a Factor in College Graduation

Conducting research and engaging in discussions with administrators and legislators can be important contributions toward alleviating the trend toward lower graduation rates among college students. This study used archival data obtained from the university registrar to examine how engagement in a credit-bearing undergraduate career course related to college graduation from a selective southern university. Results suggested that the course was one of four factors predicting graduation rates, including grade point average, changes in major, and withdrawals. The study also found that traditional measures, SAT scores and high school grades, did not effectively predict graduation rates. Implications for best practices in student services and future research are discussed.
β-Alanine synthase: Purification and allosteric properties

beta-Alanine synthase has been purified greater than 1000-fold to homogeneity from rat liver. The enzyme has a subunit molecular weight of 42,000 and a native size of hexamer. The enzyme undergoes ligand-induced changes in polymerization: association in response to the substrate, N-carbamoyl-beta-alanine, and the inhibitor, propionate; and dissociation in response to the product, beta-alanine. The ability of the substrate to associate the pure native enzyme to a larger polymeric species was exploited in the final purification step. The purified enzyme had a pI of 6.7, a Km of 8 microM, and a kcat/Km of 7.9 x 10(4) M-1 s-1. Positive cooperativity was observed toward the substrate N-carbamoyl-beta-alanine, with nH = 1.9. Such cooperativity occurred at substrate concentrations below 12 nM, so that this activation most likely occurs at a regulatory site, with a significantly stronger affinity for N-carbamoyl-beta-alanine than that shown by the catalytic site. The enzyme was sensitive to denaturation, which could be minimized by avoiding heat steps during the purification and by the presence of reducing agents. Such denatured enzyme had little change in Vmax, but had much higher Km, and had also lost the ability to associate or dissociate in response to effectors. After purification, enzyme stability was achieved by the addition of glycerol and detergent.
Medication Errors Recovered by Emergency Department Pharmacists

Study objective We assess the impact of emergency department (ED) pharmacists on reducing potentially harmful medication errors. Methods We conducted this observational study in 4 academic EDs. Trained pharmacy residents observed a convenience sample of ED pharmacists' activities. The primary outcome was medication errors recovered by pharmacists, including errors intercepted before reaching the patient (near miss or potential adverse drug event), caught after reaching the patient but before causing harm (mitigated adverse drug event), or caught after some harm but before further or worsening harm (ameliorated adverse drug event). Pairs of physician and pharmacist reviewers confirmed recovered medication errors and assessed their potential for harm. Observers were unblinded and clinical outcomes were not evaluated. Results We conducted 226 observation sessions spanning 787 hours and observed pharmacists reviewing 17,320 medications ordered or administered to 6,471 patients. We identified 504 recovered medication errors, or 7.8 per 100 patients and 2.9 per 100 medications. Most of the recovered medication errors were intercepted potential adverse drug events (90.3%), with fewer mitigated adverse drug events (3.9%) and ameliorated adverse drug events (0.2%). The potential severities of the recovered errors were most often serious (47.8%) or significant (36.2%). The most common medication classes associated with recovered medication errors were antimicrobial agents (32.1%), central nervous system agents (16.2%), and anticoagulant and thrombolytic agents (14.1%). The most common error types were dosing errors, drug omission, and wrong frequency errors. Conclusion ED pharmacists can identify and prevent potentially harmful medication errors. Controlled trials are necessary to determine the net costs and benefits of ED pharmacist staffing on safety, quality, and costs, especially important considerations for smaller EDs and pharmacy departments.
Paths of Influence: The Direct and Indirect Determinants of Marine Managed Area Success

An analysis of the factors associated with the outcomes of marine managed areas (MMAs) located near two distinct types of communities—those whose economies are highly dependent on fishing, and those whose economies are more diverse—is presented. A path analytic approach is used to investigate both direct and indirect effects of selected independent variables on MMA project outcomes. Results indicate that enforcement should not be excessively noticeable or heavy handed, particularly in communities that rely on fishing for their livelihoods; engaging in capacity-building activities in communities where they are not needed not only wastes management resources but may in fact have a negative effect on project outcomes; and improved accountability in the management of the MMA is probably more important than other more costly activities.
New polymorphisms of HLA-B27 and other B locus antigens detected by RFLP using a locus-specific probe.

Abstract Genomic DNA from 46 B27 + ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter's syndrome, or normal individuals was digested with Taq I and probed, in Southern blots, with the HLA-B locus specific probe, E17. Four restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP), 2.5, 3.4, 3.8 and 4.0 or 8.0 kb, were observed for the B27 gene. In Caucasians, one of the B27 variants (2.5 kb) was more frequent in normals and almost never appeared in patients, suggesting a trend that is not yet statistically significant. In the course of defining the B27 polymorphisms, three and two RFLP, respectively, were also found for the B18 and B44 genes.
Thomas Aquinas on Justice as a Global Virtue in Business

The moral theory of Thomas Aquinas meets the present need for a business ethics that transcends the legal realm by linking the ideas of justice and virtue in an ingenious way. Thomas's virtue theory coordinates private and public activities through a set of context-invariant, justice-oriented norms with concep- tual appeal to contemporary questions of global business ethics. In our article, we first sketch how Aquinas's theory can be also of relevance to a non-confessional audience through its appeal to the 'natural light of reason.' Then we explain how his theory of 'natural law' aligns his ideas of virtue and justice. From this vantage point, we address the tension between cultural diversity and moral uniformity in the economic sphere in general and in today's globalized business world in particular. Throughout the article, we aim to show how Aquinas's conception of virtuous business conduct gains inter-personal and inter-cultural validity that establishes social justice as the global virtue of business.
Surface properties of porous carbons obtained from polystyrene-based polymers within inorganic templates: role of polymer chemistry and inorganic template pore structure

Abstract Three inorganic adsorbents were applied as templates to produce porous carbons from polystyrene-based organic polymers. As matrices, amorphous silica gel, mesoporous alumina and microporous zeolite 13X were used. Organic precursors were polystyrene sulfonic acid (co-maleic acid) sodium salt and polystyrene co-maleic acid isobutyl/methyl mixed ester. The impregnated templates were carbonized at 800 °C. After removal of inorganic matrices porous carbons were obtained. Materials were characterized by adsorption of nitrogen, thermal analysis, potentiometric titration and SEM. Owing to the template carbonization, highly mesoporous carbons were obtained ( S BET up to 1500 m 2 /g, V t up to 3 cm 3 /g) with majority of pores with sizes between 20–200 A. Although the carbons were not replicas of their matrices, the carbonization within the confined space with utilization of self-released pore formers resulted in unique carbonaceous materials with very acidic surface. That acidity is linked to either exothermic effect of sodium reactivity with moist air or susceptibility for air oxidation of small graphene layers formed in the confined pore space.
Anodische Oxydation von molekularem Wasserstoff an Platin‐Gold‐Legierungen in schwefelsaurer Lösung

Die anodische Oxydation von molekularem Wasserstoff wurde an inhomogenen Platin-Gold-Legierungen in 1N H2SO4 bei 30°C studiert. Es wurden potentiostatische Stromspannungskurven mit einer Spannungsgeschwindigkeit von 30 mV/sec im Potentialbereich zwischen Wasserstoff- und Sauerstoffentwicklung gemessen. Impedanzmessungen mit uberlagertem Wechselstrom zeigen, das die Wasserstoffoxydation keine der Reaktionen beeinflust, die zur Bildung oder Entfernung der Wasserstoffbelegung oder der Sauerstoffbelegung fuhren. Aussagen uber die Belegung der Oberflache mit Wasserstoffatomen oder mit Sauerstoffschichten werden aus Stromspannungskurven in Losungen unter Sattigung mit Helium erhalten. Die Wasserstoffoxydation geht vorzugsweise an der platinreichen Phase der Oberflache der Legierungen vor sich. Sie ist diffusionsbestimmt an Legierungen mit Goldgehalten bis zu 80%. Die Inhibition der Reaktion mit steigendem anodischem Potential wird auf die Sauerstoffschicht im Falle der platinreichen Phase und auf Anionenadsorption im Falle der goldreichen Phase zuruckgefuhrt. The anodic oxidation of molecular hydrogen was studied on inhomogeneous platinum-gold alloys in 1N H2SO4 at 30°C by measuring voltammetric current-potential curves at 30 mV/sec in the potential range between hydrogen and oxygen evolution. Impedance measurements by voltammetry with superimposed A. C. voltage demonstrate that the H2-oxidation does not effect the reactions leading to the formation or the removal of the hydrogen layer or the oxygen layer resp. Information on the coverage of the surface with hydrogen atoms or oxygen layers is derived form current- potential curves in solutions saturated with helium. The He-oxidation occurs preferably on the platinum-rich phase at the surface of the alloys. It is largely diffusion-controlled on the alloys up to 80% Au. The inhibition of the reaction occurring with increasing potentials is attributed to the oxygen layer in the case of the platinum-rich phase and to anion asdorption on the gold-rich phase.
Isolation and characterization of the iron-containing superoxide dismutase of Methanobacterium bryantii.

Abstract Methanobacterium bryantii contains a single electrophoretically discernible superoxide dismutase, which constitutes 0.4% of the extractable protein. This enzyme has been purified to electrophoretic and ultracentrifugal homogeneity. It appears to be a tetramer. The subunits were tenaciously, but noncovalently bonded and were of identical size. The molecular weight of the enzyme was found to be 91,000 ± 2000. The specific activity of this enzyme was identical to that previously noted for the corresponding enzyme from Escherichia coli. The enzyme contained 2.7 atoms of Fe, 1.7 atoms of Zn, and less than 0.2 atoms Mn per tetramer. Its amino acid composition placed this enzyme with the other Mn- and Fe-containing superoxide dismutases. The M. bryantii enzyme was also similar to previously described Fe-containing superoxide dismutases in its optical and electron paramagnetic resonance spectra and in its susceptibility to inactivation by H2O2. The M. bryantii enzyme was ininhibited by N3−, but was less sensitive towards this inhibitor than other iron-containing superoxide dismutases.
Characterization of ligand-induced conformational states in the beta 2 adrenergic receptor.

AbstractDrugs acting at G protein coupled receptors can be classified in biological assays as either agonists, partial agonists, neutral antagonists, or as inverse agonists. Very little is known about the actual molecular events and structural changes that occur in the receptor following ligand binding and during transmission of a signal across the membrane. Therefore, the structural basis for the biological classification of drug action remains unknown. To date, the conformational state of G protein coupled receptors has been inferred from the activity of the effector enzyme modulated by the G protein. We have used two different approaches to monitor conformational changes in β2 adrenergic receptor. Fluorescence spectroscopy can be used to directly monitor structural changes in purified β2 adrenergic receptor in real-time. The emission from many fluorescent molecules is strongly dependent on the polarity of the environment in which they are located. Thus, fluorescent probes covalently bound to proteins c...
Increasing Tip60 HAT Levels Rescues Axonal Transport Defects and Associated Behavioral Phenotypes in a Drosophila Alzheimer's Disease Model

Axonal transport defects and axonopathy are prominent in early preclinical stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD), often preceding known disease-related pathology by over a year. As epigenetic transcriptional regulatory mechanisms, such as histone acetylation, are critical for neurogenesis, it is postulated that their misregulation might be linked to early pathophysiological mechanisms that contribute to AD. The histone acetyltransferase (HAT) Tip60 epigenetically regulates genes enriched for neuronal functions and is implicated in AD via its formation of a transcriptional regulatory complex with the amyloid precursor protein (APP) intracellular domain. Disruption of APP function is associated with axonal transport defects, raising the possibility that an epigenetic role for Tip60 might also be involved. Here, we examine whether Tip60 HAT activity functions in axonal transport using Drosophila CNS motor neurons as a well-characterized transport model. We show that reduction of Tip60 HAT activity in the nervous system causes axonopathy and transport defects associated with epigenetic misregulation of certain axonal transport-linked Tip60 target genes. Functional consequences of these defects are evidenced by reduced locomotion activity of the mutant Tip60 larvae, and these phenotypes can be partially rescued with certain histone deacetylase inhibitors. Finally, we demonstrate that Tip60 function in axonal transport is mediated by APP and that, remarkably, excess Tip60 exerts a neuroprotective role in APP-induced axonal transport and functional locomotion defects. Our observations highlight a novel functional interactive role between Tip60 HAT activity and APP in axonal transport and provide insight into the importance of specific HAT modulators for cognitive disorder treatment.
Modular CNC system for multi-axes motion devices

Abstract There has been a great interest in the design and development of modular computer numerical control (CNC) units which control and monitor several motion devices such as stepper motors. Power integrated circuit controller/driver-based multi-axes are extensively used in industry and other market sectors with modular CNC systems. Existing commercially available full circuit controller boards employ a complete set of commercially available driver/controller chips for each stepper motor. This paper describes how it is possible, by using a single driver and multi-task efficient algorithms, to design a low-cost controller for simultaneous and independent control of multi-axes stepper motors. This will lead to less power consumption, low cost, compact circuit, and a highly reliable controller for CNC systems. The software developed and the hardware testing were done using a 68000 Development System Board with the Orental stepper motor PH264-0213.
Assessment of scan-only operations of lidar for the detection and discrimination of biological clouds

The Joint Biological Standoff Detection System (JBSDS) Program has developed a lidar system for detecting and discriminating biological clouds at a standoff range. The lidar typically scans near the horizon to detect a cloud and then "stares" at the cloud for a time period to ensure adequate signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) to discriminate if the cloud is biological. This paper proposes an alternative to the scan-and-stare approach; i.e., to scan only. The analysis results of lidar data obtained from field tests conducted in 2004 at Dugway Proving Ground (DPG) in Utah suggest that scan-only operations without staring would improve SNR for detection and discrimination and provide operational advantages.
A PATH MODEL OF RESIDENTIAL STRESS AND INERTIA AMONG OLDER PEOPLE

The mobility decisions of older people are examined empirically from a behavioral perspective which emphasizes residential stress and inertia. Duration of residence and three personal characteristics are hypothesized to influence stress and inertia. Using survey data from Kansas City, Kansas, a path model is estimated separately for elderly white and black homeowners and elderly renters. The need for disaggregation is confirmed. The significant path coefficients differ among the models. The effects of years of residence are uniformly weak, whereas personal resources, particularly income, influence residential stress. Inertia is not explained well, suggesting that a behavioral measure is inappropriate.
Students respond to IT ethics

Students enrolled in an introductory course on Ethical Issues in Information Technology completed a survey on various aspects of the course. The course was designed as a reading, writing, and discussion-intensive course with a number of guest speakers and the instructor was especially interested in the students' reactions. Students reported that they found all of the sessions with the IT professionals to be interesting, useful, and would recommend inviting them to future sections of the course. Students also reported that they increased their knowledge of ethical theories and that the design of the class encouraged them to be better prepared to participate in class discussions. This paper describes the course design and presents both quantitative and qualitative results of the student survey.
The relationship between conservation of quantity and categorized free recall in primary-grade children

Children in kindergarten (n = 31), first (n = 33), and second grade (n = 37) were assessed for conservation of quantity and were tested on categorized free recall of picture labels. An analysis of covariance determined that conservers recalled more items than nonconservers, independent of the effects of age, while older children recalled more items than younger children, independently of the ability to conserve. No relationship was observed between measures of output organization, clustering, and recall scores. It was concluded that both age and cognitive ability contribute to the development of memory.
Half-life of the first excited state of 125Te

The half-life of the 35.3 keV first excited state of 125Te has been remeasured using the technique of delayed coincidences. It is shown that a prompt contribution to the delayed coincidence curve can be avoided for both the 125I and 125Sb parent. The result obtained from three different measurements is T12 = 1.475±0.010 nsec.
Equilibrium forces acting on free drops in irregular capillaries

This paper consists of a theoretical discussion of the measurement of free surface energy in absolute terms by means of a simple micro-method. The theory is tested and verified experimentally.
Genetics of apolipoprotein B and apolipoprotein AI and premature coronary artery disease

Increased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) predict premature coronary artery disease, as do elevated levels of apolipoprotein B or reduced levels of apolipoprotein AI. Probands were studied of families with common genetic forms of dyslipidaemia to determine if apo B or apo AI define genetic groups and if apo B or apo AI levels relate to premature coronary artery disease risk. Elevated apo B was characteristic of familial hypercholesterolaemia, familial combined hyperlipidaemia (FCHL), and was seen in individuals with elevated Lp(a). Normal apo B levels were seen in familial hypertriglyceridaemia and in 'coronary artery disease with low-HDL cholesterol'. Apo AI levels tended to be low in FCHL and were decreased in 'coronary disease with low-HDL cholesterol'. In familial hypertriglyceraemia, even though HDL-C levels were low, normal apo AI and apo B levels were seen in the absence of premature coronary artery disease. Therefore, in genetic dyslipidaemias elevated apo B levels and reduced apo AI levels (or increased apo B/AI ratio) differ and predict premature coronary artery disease.
A Color Aberration in Egyptian Alfalfa Weevil Larvae

Approximately 1–2% of the 4th-stage Egyptian alfalfa weevil, Hypera brunneipennis (Boheman), larvae in field-collected samples lacked green pigment and were pale pink. Mortality during the period from 4th instar to adult eclosion was 14% higher (significant at P = 0.05) in the pink form. In laboratory experiments, 1st and 2nd-stage larvae appeared normal and the color change did not occur until after the 2nd molt.
Arthroscopic treatment of septic arthritis of the elbow.

Hypothesis Septic arthritis of the elbow is a serious orthopedic concern associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, traditionally treated with open exposure of the elbow joint. This study was performed to describe the outcome of arthroscopic treatment of septic elbow arthritis. Methods From May 2000 through January 2008, 12 patients with septic elbow arthritis were treated arthroscopically at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, a large medical center. We reviewed the patients' medical records concerning variables such as history and clinical findings, previous elbow history, surgical procedure, cultured organism, and follow-up. Using the Oxford Elbow Score and the Mayo Elbow Score, we examined current level of pain, function, and social-psychological aspects. Six patients died before initiation of this study and were therefore only studied retrospectively. Results Septic elbow arthritis without pre-existing elbow problems shows excellent outcomes after arthroscopic treatment, with scores for absence of pain, function, social-psychological well-being, and range of motion of 97.9%, 100%, 95.8%, and 100%, respectively. When elbows were treated arthroscopically within 2 days after the onset of clinical symptoms suggesting bacterial elbow arthritis, maximum scores of 100% were noted for all aspects. Positive elbow history before infection and reoperation were associated with poor outcome scores, with 62.5%, 85.4%, and 50% for absence of pain, function, and social-psychological well-being, respectively. Conclusion Septic elbow arthritis occurs often in the debilitated, immunocompromised patient. Arthroscopic intervention is a reasonable alternative to open treatment. In this small series, the acutely septic elbow was successfully treated in the majority of patients, although the overall patient mortality rate remains high.
Reaction rate theory perspectives on some problems in materials science

Early applications of rate theory to atomic processes in solids were largely concerned with the postirradiation annealing of native defects or the growth of precipitates from a supersaturated solution. However, the materials problems spawned by the demands of fast reactor and fusion reactor technology necessitated generalizations of the existing formalism to account for the possibilities of both time-dependent point defect production and the simultaneous presence of defect sinks of various distinct types. Ensuing developments led to theories of void swelling and irradiation creep. Attention was also redirected to essentially the same problem area in the fields of physical chemistry and statistical physics. Concomitantly, there arose the realization that many of the concepts emerging from these advances in rate theory were readily adaptable to further topics in materials science. A historical synopsis of these developments is presented, and three examples of the latter topics, specifically, the volume fraction dependence of Ostwald ripening, the internal friction effects arising from the association and dissociation of solutedefect complexes in doped materials, and the effect of catalytic particles upon the response of one type of solid-state gas sensor, are discussed at length. The possible further adaptation of rate theory to some new problem areas is also addressed.
EGCG Enhances the Therapeutic Potential of Gemcitabine and CP690550 by Inhibiting STAT3 Signaling Pathway in Human Pancreatic Cancer

Background Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) is an oncogene, which promotes cell survival, proliferation, motility and progression in cancer cells. Targeting STAT3 signaling may lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches for human cancers. Here, we examined the effects of epigallocathechin gallate (EGCG) on STAT3 signaling in pancreatic cancer cells, and assessed the therapeutic potential of EGCG with gemcitabine or JAK3 inhibitor CP690550 (Tasocitinib) for the treatment and/or prevention of pancreatic cancer. Methodology/Principal Findings Cell viability and apoptosis were measured by XTT assay and TUNEL staining, respectively. Gene and protein expressions were measured by qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. The results revealed that EGCG inhibited the expression of phospho and total JAK3 and STAT3, STAT3 transcription and activation, and the expression of STAT3-regulated genes, resulting in the inhibition of cell motility, migration and invasion, and the induction of caspase-3 and PARP cleavage. The inhibition of STAT3 enhanced the inhibitory effects of EGCG on cell motility and viability. Additionally, gemcitabine and CP690550 alone inhibited STAT3 target genes and synergized with EGCG to inhibit cell viability and induce apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. Conclusions/Significance Overall, these results suggest that EGCG suppresses the growth, invasion and migration of pancreatic cancer cells, and induces apoptosis by interfering with the STAT3 signaling pathway. Moreover, EGCG further enhanced the therapeutic potential of gemcitabine and CP690550 against pancreatic cancer.
Plasmonic metal-insulator-metal structures for interaction with silicon nanocrystals

We propose to use plasmonic modes in a periodic metal-insulator-metal configuration with metallic gratings to enhance emission from silicon nanocrystals. The modification of emission with a change in grating periodicity is experimentally demonstrated.