cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Naturally occurring epoxy acids: i. detection and evaluation of epoxy fatty acids by paper, thin-layer, and gas-liquid chromatography

SUMMARY Chromatographic procedures for the detection and evaluation of oxygenated fatty acids are described. Emphasis has been placed on epoxy acids, but these methods promise to be of great value in studies of all classes of oxygenated acids. Paper chromatography of fatty acids and their esters has been developed for the examination of mixtures containing oxygenated derivatives. The method of adsorption chromatography on thin layers of silicic acid has been shown to be a powerful tool in studies of epoxy acids and hydroxy acids. Gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) of epoxy esters has been studied using both polar and nonpolar columns and has great utility in the detection and analysis of these compounds in mixtures. These methods have been applied to the examination of the epoxy components of six seed oils. Thin-layer and GLC proved particularly useful in this study and together demonstrated the presence of at least three distinct epoxy acids in each of these oils. Some conclusions as to the probable structures of these epoxy components are presented on the basis of their chromatographic characteristics in relation to known substances.
Soccer Analytics Using Touch-by-Touch Match Data

This paper discusses several soccer analytics directions exploiting detailed ball touch data from a soccer game. The topics discussed include visualizing team formations and quantifying territorial advantage; determining the network-based structural properties of team play, and computing the importance of individual players for the team interactions. The proposed ideas are illustrated using the data from a real-life Barclays Premier League game, which was made available by StatDNA.
Use of isotretinoin (Accutane) in the United States: Rapid increase from 1992 through 2000

Abstract Background: Isotretinoin, a drug approved to treat severe recalcitrant nodular acne, has been marketed in the United States since 1982. The drug is an effective treatment for acne that is refractory to other therapies, but it is a teratogen and can cause serious side effects. Objective: Our purpose was to describe trends in the use of isotretinoin in the United States from marketing through year 2000 and summarize characteristics of patients and prescribers. Methods: Data from 2 pharmaceutical marketing research databases, the National Prescription Audit Plus and the National Disease and Therapeutic Index, and from 2 health plan networks were obtained and analyzed. Results: Retail pharmacies dispensed 19.8 million outpatient prescriptions for isotretinoin from marketing in 1982 through 2000. From 1983 through 1993, the median annual number of prescriptions was just over 800,000; between 1992 and 2000, the number of prescriptions increased 2.5-fold (250%) to nearly 2 million in year 2000. The increases registered in the health plans were somewhat larger: about 275% increases from 1995 through 1999. There is no ICD-9 code for nodulocystic acne; consequently, the type of acne treated with isotretinoin is not determinable from these data. However, between 1993 and 2000, the proportion of isotretinoin treatment for severe acne declined from 63% to 46%, whereas the proportion of treatment for mild and moderate acne increased from 31% to 49%. Data also indicated that the sex distribution of patients was nearly even, and that 63% of male patients prescribed isotretinoin were 15 to 19 years old, whereas 51% of female patients were 15 to 24 years old. Conclusion: In the last 8 years, there has been a 2.5-fold (250%) increase in the number of dispensed prescriptions for isotretinoin in the United States. Data also reveal an increasing proportion of isotretinoin use for mild and moderate acne. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2002;46:505-9.)
Interactive analysis of big data

New user interfaces can transform how we work with big data, and raise exciting research problems that span human-computer interaction, machine learning, and distributed systems.
Clinical Strategies to Enhance the Efficacy of Nicotine Replacement Therapy for Smoking Cessation: A Review of the Literature

A number of smoking cessation pharmacotherapies have led to increases in quitting and thus to significant benefits to public health. Among existing medications, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) has been available the longest, has the largest literature base in support, and is the only option for over-the-counter access. While the short-term efficacy of NRT is well documented in clinical trials, long-term abstinence rates associated with using NRT are modest, as most smokers will relapse. This literature review examines emerging clinical strategies to improve NRT efficacy. After an initial overview of NRT and its FDA-approved indications for use, we review randomized trials in which clinical delivery of NRT was manipulated and tested, in an attempt to enhance efficacy, through (1) duration of use (pre-quit and extended use), (2) amount of use (high-dose and combination NRT), (3) tailoring to specific smoker groups (genotype and phenotype), or (4) use of NRT for novel purposes (relapse prevention, temporary abstinence, cessation induction). Outcomes vary within and across topic area, and we highlight areas that offer stronger promise. Combination NRT likely represents the most promising strategy moving forward; other clinical strategies offer conflicting evidence but deserve further testing (pre-quit NRT or tailored treatment) or offer potential utility but are in need of further, direct tests. Some areas, though based on a limited set of studies, do not offer great promise (high-dose and extended treatment NRT). We conclude with a brief discussion of emergent NRT products (e.g., oral nicotine spray, among others), which may ultimately offer greater efficacy than current formulations. In order to further lower the prevalence of smoking, novel strategies designed to optimize NRT efficacy are needed.
The effect of pH on N-alkylnitrosoamide mutagenesis in drosophila

Abstract N -nitroso- N -ethylurea (NEH) can induce a significant frequency of mutations at the dumpy (dp) locus in D. melanogaster when analyzed by means of a specific visible test. pH has a significant effect on the capacity of NEH to induce dumpy mutations. NEH induces the highest frequency of dumpy mutations in an acidic environment. A basic environment essentially removes the capacity of NEH to induce specific visible mutations. Mosaic dumpy mutations are induced in postmeiotic, meiotic and premeiotic gametes under the environmental conditions which favor the mutagenic action of NEH. Absorption spectral data establishes that pH has an effect on the stability of NEH. NEH is relatively stable at low pH values while ot rapidly decomposes at high pH values.
Velocity-dependent friction on Coulombic shear faults in ice

Abstract Previous experiments [Fortt AL, Schulson EM. Acta Mater 2007;55:2253] at −10 °C on sliding along Coulombic shear faults in ice at a constant-velocity revealed that the coefficient of friction exhibits velocity-strengthening at lower velocities and velocity-weakening at higher velocities. Here we present the results of new, variable-velocity sliding experiments. When velocity changes are confined solely within either the velocity-strengthening or the velocity-weakening regime, the difference parameter (A − B) that describes the sensitivity of the steady-state coefficient of friction to changes in velocity is independent of the sense of the velocity change and agrees with the values calculated from constant-velocity tests. When velocity changes straddle the two regimes, (A − B) is different from the values calculated from constant-velocity tests and the coefficient of friction exhibits a memory.
Computed tomography of the retroperitoneum and abdominal wall

T HE DIAGNOSIS of retroperitoneal pathologic change has been difficult in the past; often it is not made until late in the course of the disease. For example, some 40-50s of patients with retroperitoneal abscess die from the disease, and postmortem examination has indicated that one-quarter to half of these cases go undiagnosed. ‘vZ6 Early symptoms of retroperitoneal disease are usually nonspecific; they include nausea, vomiting, loss of weight, fever, and anorexia. Other symptoms consist of pain in the flank or referred pain to the hip or knee. Clinical examination of the region is difficult, particularly in obese patients. An abdominal mass may not be evident. Radiographic evaluation of the retroperitoneum has been of limited scope and often has required many studies to supplement the plain films and intravenous urogram. Retroperitoneal pneumography has been replaced by angiography, lymphangiography, ultrasound,‘3~21~28 and radionuclide scanning. CT has become increasingly important in the diagnosis of various retroperitoneal disease entities.27 It is an invaluable tool for the radiotherapist in accurately demarcating a known tumor, thus assuring maximum radiation dose with minimal exposure to the adjacent normal structures. It has also proved to be a precise method of localization for needle biopsy and aspiration.g,‘O
The Short Wave Aerostat-Mounted Imager (SWAMI): A novel platform for acquiring remotely sensed data from a tethered balloon

Abstract We describe a new remote sensing system called the Short Wave Aerostat-Mounted Imager (SWAMI). The SWAMI is designed to acquire co-located video imagery and hyperspectral data to study basic remote sensing questions and to link landscape level trace gas fluxes with spatially and temporally appropriate spectral observations. The SWAMI can fly at altitudes up to 2 km above ground level to bridge the spatial gap between radiometric measurements collected near the surface and those acquired by other aircraft or satellites. The SWAMI platform consists of a dual channel hyperspectral spectroradiometer, video camera, GPS, thermal infrared sensor, and several meteorological and control sensors. All SWAMI functions (e.g. data acquisition and sensor pointing) can be controlled from the ground via wireless transmission. Sample data from the sampling platform are presented, along with several potential scientific applications of SWAMI data.
A review of breast tomosynthesis. Part II. Image reconstruction, processing and analysis, and advanced applications

Many important post-acquisition aspects of breast tomosynthesis imaging can impact its clinical performance. Chief among them is the reconstruction algorithm that generates the representation of the three-dimensional breast volume from the acquired projections. But even after reconstruction, additional processes, such as artifact reduction algorithms, computer aided detection and diagnosis, among others, can also impact the performance of breast tomosynthesis in the clinical realm. In this two part paper, a review of breast tomosynthesis research is performed, with an emphasis on its medical physics aspects. In the companion paper, the first part of this review, the research performed relevant to the image acquisition process is examined. This second part will review the research on the post-acquisition aspects, including reconstruction, image processing, and analysis, as well as the advanced applications being investigated for breast tomosynthesis.
Number and Brightness Analysis of LRRK2 Oligomerization in Live Cells

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a large multidomain protein that contains enzymatically functional GTPase and kinase domains. Several noncoding LRRK2 gene polymorphisms have been associated with susceptibility to Parkinson's disease (PD), Crohn's disease, and leprosy. Many LRRK2 coding polymorphisms have been associated with or causally linked to PD. The G2019S point mutation within the LRRK2 kinase domain is the most common cause of familial PD. The G2019S mutation appears to alter LRRK2 kinase activity. Some but not all studies have reported that LRRK2 kinase activity is dependent upon LRRK2 dimerization and membrane localization. It is important to define the oligomeric state(s) of LRRK2 in living cells, which to date have only been characterized in vitro. Here we use confocal and total internal reflection microscopy coupled with number and brightness analysis to study the oligomeric states of LRRK2 within the cytosol and on the plasma membrane of live CHO-K1 cells. Our results show, for the first time to our knowledge, that LRRK2 is predominantly monomeric throughout the cytosol of living cells, but attains predominately higher oligomeric states in the plasma membrane.
The book of opposites: the role of the nuclear receptor co-regulators in the suppression of epidermal genes by retinoic acid and thyroid hormone receptors.

Transcriptional regulation by nuclear receptors occurs through complex interactions that involve DNA response elements, co-activators/co-repressors, and histone modifying enzymes. Very little is known about how molecular interplay of these components may determine tissue specificity of hormone action. We have shown previously that retinoic acid (RA) and thyroid hormone (T3) repress transcription of a specific group of epidermal keratin genes through a novel mechanism that utilizes receptors homodimers. In this paper, we have analyzed the epidermal specificity of RA/T3 action by testing the role of co-repressors and co-activators in regulation of epidermal genes. Using transient co-transfections, northern blots, antisense oligonucleotides, and a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, trichostatin A, we found that in the context of specific keratin RE (KRE), co-activators and histone acetylase become co-repressors of the RA/T3 receptors in the presence of their respective ligands. Conversely, co-repressors and HDAC become co-activators of unliganded T3Rα. The receptor–co-activator interaction is intact and occurs through the NR-box. Therefore, the role of co-activator is to associate with liganded receptors whereas the KRE–receptor interaction determines specific transcriptional signal, in this case repression. This novel molecular mechanism of transcriptional repression conveys how RA and T3 target specific groups of epidermal genes, thus exerting intrinsic tissue specificity.
Lost in Space? Ethnography and the Disparate Geographies of Social Process

Amidst ongoing and far-reaching shifts in the spatial organization of social relations, ethnographic researchers have struggled to develop adequately nuanced critical analyses of the subjectivities and agencies involved. In this context, many contemporary ethnographic studies have posited key social forms as “global,” external, or otherwise largely given. Important social and political issues can get lost in this articulation. Interweaving preliminary findings from an ongoing study in New York City with work by geographers who employ a process-based conceptualization of their objects, I outline a geo-ethnographic approach to understanding extralocal social relations that infuses a critically conscientious spatialization into these debates.
US Media Pools and Military Interventions in the 1980s and 1990s

Media pools have frequently been deployed by the US military during the past 25 years, and there has been much written about the effects and limitations of their use in particular cases. The military actions reviewed in this study are troop deployments to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Grenada, Haiti, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Panama, and Somalia, all of which resulted in the loss of American lives. The research examines whether there is a correlation between the characterization of the intervention as it is presented in media pool stories and the shifts in public opinion during this range of US military interventions. The examination shows that (1) when US media are constrained by military pooling, then the military intervention is characterized by the media as facilitating political change, and the public opinion is initially favorable; and (2) when US media are not constrained by military pooling, then the military intervention is characterized by the media as facilitating humanitarian efforts, and the public opinion is initially less favorable. This evidence also suggests a savvy practice of agenda-framing and second-level agenda-setting among military operations planners who determine the implementation of media pooling. The evidence also suggests the need for additional attention by researchers interested in the variables of second-level message-framing effects during those periods when both media and audiences are vulnerable to message management.
Attacks on biometric systems: a case study in fingerprints

In spite of numerous advantages of biometrics-based personal authentication systems over traditional security systems based on token or knowledge, they are vulnerable to attacks that can decrease their security considerably. In this paper, we analyze these attacks in the realm of a fingerprint biometric system. We propose an attack system that uses a hill climbing procedure to synthesize the target minutia templates and evaluate its feasibility with extensive experimental results conducted on a large fingerprint database. Several measures that can be utilized to decrease the probability of such attacks and their ramifications are also presented.
Isolation of viruses from primary dog cell cultures and the occurrence of viral antibody in donor animals.

SummaryFifty-five different lots of primary dog kidney cell cultures and 30 lots of primary liver cell cultures (derived from stray dogs) were incubated for 4-5 weeks and examined for viruses. Ten ICHV's, ten CDV's, and one herpesvirus were isolated from kidney cultures; three ICHV's were isolated from liver cultures. Thirty-eight % of kidney cultures and 10% of liver cultures contained viruses. CDV was isolated only from dogs studied in early fall; no CDV was isolated from dogs studied in late winter and early spring. No characteristic antibody pattern was found in dogs yielding or not yielding viruses, since ICHV and CDV were isolated from dogs with and without antibody. Cell-free homogenates of CDV-infected kidneys were inadequate for demonstrating the virus, whereas primary cell cultures from these kidneys readily yielded virus. There was evidence from direct isolations and from antibody reactions that no adenovirus other than ICHV infected the dogs studied. ICHV antibody detection was about 60 times ...
Crystal Phases in the System Al2O3–AlN

Fused aluminum oxide containing a small amount of nitrogen (as added aluminum nitride) showed X-ray powder diffraction patterns similar to the δ-alumina obtained from the calcination of alumina mouohydrate in dry air. About 1% nitrogen was adequate for complete conversion of the α phase to the δ phase. A fused mixture containing 3.9% nitrogen showed a powder pattern identical to lithium ζ-alumina.
Neuroanatomical clues to peripheral locomotor control in small crustaceans (Artemia salina).

Brine shrimp (Artemia salina) were prepared for light and electron microscopy at several stages. Immersion-fixed, rapid Golgi impregnations demonstrated two distinct neuronal types in thoracic appendages of mature, freely swimming Artemia. Isolated motor neurons had large cell somas and thick, radiating dendrites at the body wall-limb junction. A long, elaborate axon extended into the limb. Groups of a second type of neuron with smaller somas and very thin, radiating processes occurred in the distal limb near presumably tactile bristles. Thick axons from motor neurons were traced to terminals associated with limb muscle. Both muscle and axon were best seen with Nomarski optics. Motor axons possessed elongate, irregularly shaped boutons en passant and morphologically variable boutons terminaux; the latter included huge endings with knobbed projectiles arising from thick collaterals, or smaller, round boutons from thin collaterals. In addition, a thick, unidentified axon coursed longitudinally within the central body wall, sending short collaterals peripherally. The elaborate peripheral neurons described in this Golgi study may be anatomical correlates for the extraordinary coordination of mature brine shrimp. Because Artemia movements resemble those of leech and decapods, which have been studied extensively electrophysiologically, the possibility of similarly elaborate peripheral structures supplementing central control of locomotion in those invertebrates should be considered.
Structure of the sulphiredoxin–peroxiredoxin complex reveals an essential repair embrace

The X-ray crystal structure of peroxiredoxin bound to sulphiredoxin is solved. In this structure of the co-complex, the carboxy terminus of peroxiredoxin is completely unfolded, and it is 'packed' onto the backside of sulphiredoxin, away from the sulphiredoxin active site. Binding studies and activity analyses of site-directed mutants at this interface show that the interaction is required for repair to occur. Typical 2-Cys peroxiredoxins (Prxs) have an important role in regulating hydrogen peroxide-mediated cell signalling1. In this process, Prxs can become inactivated through the hyperoxidation of an active site Cys residue to Cys sulphinic acid. The unique repair of this moiety by sulphiredoxin (Srx) restores peroxidase activity and terminates the signal2. The hyperoxidized form of Prx exists as a stable decameric structure with each active site buried. Therefore, it is unclear how Srx can access the sulphinic acid moiety. Here we present the 2.6 A crystal structure of the human Srx–PrxI complex. This complex reveals the complete unfolding of the carboxy terminus of Prx, and its unexpected packing onto the backside of Srx away from the Srx active site. Binding studies and activity analyses of site-directed mutants at this interface show that the interaction is required for repair to occur. Moreover, rearrangements in the Prx active site lead to a juxtaposition of the Prx Gly-Gly-Leu-Gly and Srx ATP-binding motifs, providing a structural basis for the first step of the catalytic mechanism. The results also suggest that the observed interactions may represent a common mode for other proteins to bind to Prxs.
Theoretical analysis of an all-photonic multifunctional molecular logic device: Using TD-DFT//DFT to assess photochromic activity of multimeric photochrome

Abstract The structures and properties of a single-molecule photochromic switch consisting of 3 photochromic moieties is investigated. Using time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) we calculated the λ max within ± 30 nm (± 0.18 eV) and produced spectra that were similar. The charge-transfer (CT) character of the molecular orbitals (MO) was assessed via the overlap between the occupied and virtual orbitals (Λ diagnostic) and did not suffer from CT failure. The MOs were consistent with photochemically productive photochromes. The MO and their contribution to different excited states paralleled both the observed activity and observed inactivity of the photochrome.
Space charge limit in a relativistic migma

Abstract The space charge limit for a disc-shaped relativistic ion migma has been designed in terms of the total ion number N and density n for the “classical” migma in the magnetic field of the simple mirror type.
AN EXPERIMENT IN THE USE OF DRILL INSTRUCTORS IN LANGUAGE LABORATORIES

The present paper is an attempt to describe and dis,cuss a type of language laboratory at the University of Michigan which is implemented somewhat differently from the conventional one. It employs dr i l l instructors, supervised pattern practice, and group repetition as well as the more customary adjunct of a tape recorder. The paper will begin with a brief account of general instruction methods in the language course and of the laboratory as it is utilized at present, and will conclude with some observations on improvements that seem to be indicated in the light of experience gained during the past six or seven months. The course is one in first-year Russian. It meets four hours each week. It is built around Cornyn's B e g i n n i n g Russ i a n , a textbook modelled in general on the materials used in the Intensive Language Program of the American Council of Learned Societies, but with certain improvements in the concentration of material by grammatical categories. The textbook, like most manuals of its type, employs for its earlier lessons a phonemic transcription, contains large amounts of set conversational materials for memorization, and, although representing a considerable improvement over most of the socalled "army method" texts in that it contains some rather well-planned grammatical exercises, must nevertheless be supplemented with a large number of additional materials for pattern practice and kindred exercises for the utilization of vocabulary within the morphological and syntactic categories under study. The creation of a special Russian language laboratory was partly intentional and partly accidental. The Slavic Department had long been eager to experiment with a form of laboratory period that would be somewhat more flexible than is possible during a compulsory half hour attendance at the
Coupled heat conductors

Abstract This paper deals with the heat flow between two temperature levels through any number of long (or one - dimensional) heat conductors connected in parallel. The heat conductors may have different temperature dependent thermal conductivities and may be coupled by arbitrary heat leaks to each other. The independence of the total heat flow of the thermal coupling between these conductors is pointed out. Further, a simple method is presented for computing the common temperature distribution in the longitudinal direction of such heat conductors which are perfectly coupled to each other. For other kinds of couplings via finite heat leaks between the conductors the approximate temperature distributions are calculated. All computations are straightforward and are demonstrated by examples.
Citizen Attitudes Toward Issues of Federalism in Canada, Mexico, and the United States

Public opinion is often said to affect the distribution of powers in federal systems, the legitimacy of the orders of government, and system functions. However, there is little comparative empirical and longitudinal research on public attitudes toward federalism. Using several years of surveys conducted in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, we examine public attitudes about the treatment of constituent units, trust in the various orders of government, government value, power distribution, and federal political culture. We find many similarities, as well as significant differences, between public attitudes toward federalism issues in these North American federations.
Addressing glenoid bone deficiency and asymmetric posterior erosion in shoulder arthroplasty

Glenoid bone deficiency and eccentric posterior wear are difficult problems faced by shoulder arthroplasty surgeons. Numerous options and techniques exist for addressing these issues. Hemiarthroplasty with concentric glenoid reaming may be a viable alternative in motivated patients in whom glenoid component failure is a concern. Total shoulder arthroplasty has been shown to provide durable pain relief and excellent function in patients, and numerous methods and techniques can assist in addressing bone loss and eccentric wear. However, the ideal amount of version correction in cases of severe retroversion has not yet been established. Asymmetric reaming is a commonly used technique to address glenoid version, but correction of severe retroversion may compromise bone stock and component fixation. Bone grafting is a technically demanding alternative for uncontained defects and has mixed clinical results. Specialized glenoid implants with posterior augmentation have been created to assist the surgeon in correcting glenoid version without compromising bone stock, but clinical data on these implants are still pending. Custom implants or instruments based on each patient's unique glenoid anatomy may hold promise. In elderly, sedentary patients in whom bone stock and soft-tissue balance are concerns, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty may be less technically demanding while still providing satisfactory pain relief and functional improvements.
Diagnostic pitfalls associated with fine-needle aspiration biopsy in a patient with the myxoid variant of monophasic fibrous synovial sarcoma.

Synovial sarcoma (SS) is one of the most common soft tissue tumors that typically presents in the extremities of young adults, but may occur at any site and affect children during the first decade. Herein we discuss a 12-yr-old male who complained of left foot pain and plantar mass. A fine-needle aspiration biopsy of an 8 cm subcutaneous mass was performed revealing a myxoid spindle cell neoplasm. The cytologic differential diagnosis included a myxoid neurofibroma, neurothekeoma, and a myxoid sarcoma. Subsequent excision of the mass revealed a monophasic fibrous SS with myxoid features. Examination of the tissue by fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed the presence of characteristic SS SYT gene rearrangement at chromosome 18q11.2. This case underscores that the cytologic distinction of mxyoid spindle cell tumors may be challenging. We report the cytologic features of a myxoid monophasic fibrous SS, and discuss its distinction from other benign and malignant myxoid soft tissue neoplasms. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2006;34: 761–767. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Nickel porphyrins in the bedding planes of a Colorado lean oil shale

Abstract A Colorado lean oil shale was found to have red-colored material on the faces of bedding planes and fractures. This red material is almost entirely the nickel chelate of a single C-29 porphyrin of deoxophylloerythroetioporphyrin type. The molecular weight of the chelate is 490 or 492, depending on which of the two major isotopes of nickel is chelated. A small amount of a methylene homologue 14 mass units higher in molecular weight is also present. Porphyrins extracted from the powdered shale are an extended homologous series of deoxophylloerythroetioporphyrin-type and possibly etio-type nickel porphyrins, as determined by mass spectrometry. The origin of the red porphyrins coating the shale fractures and bedding planes therefore was exogenous to these particular shale samples.
Original Contribution: Learning coefficient dependence on training set size

A rule for the selection of the learning coefficient, @h, for use in back propagation with batch training of neural networks is presented. The length of the error gradient is shown to increase as more training set examples are presented. This results in slow training or nonconvergence if @h is not decreased as the number of input examples increases. The effect of a momentum term is shown to allow a range of @h's to produce similar training rates. Two networks having identical topology are trained at different tasks, one with few training patterns (16) and one with many (192). Distinctly different values of @h are shown to produce good training for the two networks. We propose selecting @h equal to 1.5 divided by the square root of the sum of the squares of the number of each input pattern type. Any group of similar inputs that map to identical outputs constitutes a pattern type. This rule produces a fixed value of @h that yields rapid training when coupled with a momentum coefficient of 0.9 for a wide variety of networks.
Granulosa cell aromatase bioassay for follicle-stimulating hormone: validation and application of the method.

Stimulation of rat granulosa cell aromatase activity by FSH has recently been used as a sensitive biological end point to develop an in vitro FSH bioassay. The present report provides a detailed validation and application of this assay. In the presence of androstenedione and diethylstilbestrol, FSH stimulated estrogen production in a dose-dependent manner. Although addition of high doses of a phosphodiesterase inhibitor [1-methyl-3-isobutyl xanthine (MIX)] decreased maximal estrogen production, treatment with 0.125 mm MIX increased the sensitivity of granulosa cells to FSH, presumably by minimizing endogenous cAMP breakdown. Addition of insulin and human CG (hCG) further synergistically enhanced granulosa cell sensitivity to FSH. Although inclusion of gonadotropinfree serum obtained from hypophysectomized male rats decreased the assay sensitivity, pretreatment of serum with polyethylene glycol [(PEG) 10–14%] resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in the serum-interfering effect. Studies using exogenous [12...
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of N-Heterocyclic Carbene Gold(I) Complexes

A series of N-heterocyclic carbene Au(NHC)Cl complexes (NHC = IMes (1), SIMes (2), IPr (3), SIPr (4), IPrMe (5), IMe (6), ICy (7), IAd (8), ITPh (9)) have been synthesized either through reaction of the corresponding imidazol-2-ylidene carbene with [Au(SMe2)Cl] or by transmetalation of the respective Ag(I)−NHC complex in the presence of 1 equiv of [Au(SMe2)Cl]. All of the gold(I) complexes [Au(IMes)Cl] (10), [Au(SIMes)Cl] (11), [Au(IPr)Cl] (12), [Au(SIPr)Cl] (13), [Au(IPrMe)Cl] (14), [Au(IMe)Cl] (15), [Au(ICy)Cl] (16), [Au(IAd)Cl] (17), and [Au(ITPh)Cl] (18) have been characterized spectroscopically and structurally by X-ray diffraction. The 13C chemical shifts of the carbene carbon have been compared through subtraction of the corresponding imidazol-2-ylidene carbene and suggest that there is little difference in donor ability of the NHC ligands bound to gold(I). Crystal structure analysis reinforces this notion, with no obvious change in Au−C(NHC) bond length on going from saturated and unsaturated NHC ...
Electrochemical investigations of the [tris(2-(diphenylphosphino)thiaphenolato)ruthenate(II)] monoanion reveal metal- and ligand-centered events: Radical, reactivity, and rate

Electrochemical investigations of [bis(triphenylphosphoranylidene)ammonium)][tris(2-(diphenylphosphino)thiaphenolato)ruthenate(II)], PPN[Ru(DPPBT)(3)] (1), and [(bis(2-(diphenylphosphino)thiaphenolato)methane)(2-(diphenylphosphino)thiaphenolato)ruthenium(II)] chloride, [Ru((DPPBT)(2)CH(2))(DPPBT)]Cl (2) are reported. Complex 1 is oxidized reversibly in a metal-centered event by one electron at a potential of +455 mV (vs Ag/AgCl) to the ruthenium(III) derivative [tris(2-(diphenylphosphino)thiaphenolato)ruthenium(III)], 3. Complex 3 can also be prepared by iodine oxidation of 1 in acetonitrile. Oxidation of 3 in acetonitrile is reversible on a cyclic voltammetry time scale but irreversible upon bulk oxidation yielding Ru-X. Monitoring the oxidation of 3 by UV-visible spectroscopy reveals a proposed metal-coordinated thiyl radical intermediate with a maximum absorbance at 850 nm. This intermediate decays at a temperature of -20 degrees C with a rate constant of (5.82 +/- 0.73) x 10(-)(3) s(-)(1) with a small, positive deltaH and a large, negative deltaS. Ru-X can be oxidized reversibly to Ru-Y at a potential of +806 mV but cannot be reduced. Complex 2 is reversibly oxidized by one electron in a metal-centered event to 4 at a potential of +767 mV.
The Chromonitor, A Colorful Dynamic Graphic Display Terminal

The Bevatron has associated with its acceleration cycle many parameters which vary in a dynamic manner throughout that cycle. Control and monitoring of such parameters is now done largely by computer, so that many variables formerly in the analog realm and easily observed on the conventional oscilloscope are now in the digital realm and not easily observed. The Chromonitor is a device which has been developed to accept inputs from computers or the analog realm and display on a TV screen any or all of sixteen different parameters which may be associated with particle acceleration and delivery, or which may be pertinent to monitoring a computer process in progress. Each of the parameters may be displayed in any of seven colors.
Acute childhood leukemia presenting as aplastic anemia: the response to corticosteroids.

Response to corticosteroid therapy is described in 6 children whose initial diagnosis was "acquired aplastic anemia," but who eventually developed acute, lymphoblastic leukemia. A short-term course of corticosteroids during the period of aplasia produced an extremely rapid return to apparent hematologic and clinical normality until manifestations of leukemia appeared. The dramatic response in "preleukemic" patients is in marked contrast to the ineffectiveness of corticosteroids in the treatment of nonleukemic or "classic" acquired aplatic anemia.
Gene flow at three spatial scales in a coral reef fish, the three-spot dascyllus, Dascyllus trimaculatus

Dispersal in coral reef fishes occurs predominantly during the larval planktonic stage of their life cycle. With relatively brief larval stages, damselfishes (Pomacentridae) are likely to exhibit limited dispersal. This study evaluates gene flow at three spatial scales in one species of coral reef damselfish, Dascyllus trimaculatus. Samples were collected at seven locations at Moorea, Society Islands, French Polynesia. Phylogenetic relationships and gene flow based on mitochondrial control region DNA sequences between these locations were evaluated (first spatial scale). Although spatial structure was not found, molecular markers showed clear temporal structure, which may be because pulses of settling larvae have distinct genetic composition. Moorea samples were then compared with individuals from a distant island (750 km), Rangiroa, Tuamotu Archipelago, French Polynesia (second spatial scale). Post-recruitment events (selection) and gene flow were probably responsible for the lack of structure observed between populations from Moorea and Rangiroa. Finally, samples from six Indo-West Pacific locations, Zanzibar, Indonesia, Japan, Christmas Island, Hawaii, and French Polynesia were compared (third spatial scale). Strong population structure was observed between Indo-West Pacific populations.
Evidence for a quark hard core

In a previous letter, evidence for a quark hard core was presented, but closely tied to Hagedorn’s statistical bootstrap model. To some who read the letter, it may appear that the credibility of the quark hard core rises (or falls) with the success (or failure) of the Hagedorn model (which has been modified twice since it was created in 1965). The purpose of this letter is twofold: to extend and to clarify the previous letter (where the quark hard core was introduced) ; to show clearly that the evidence for the quark hard core is independent of the Hagedorn model and that it stands on its own merits.
Prevention of Travelers' Diarrhea: Ciprofloxacin versus Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole in Adult Volunteers Working in Latin America and the Caribbean

Background The objective of the study was to compare the safety and efficacy of three treatment protocols for the prevention of travelers' diarrhea: once-daily ciprofloxacin versus trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMZ) once daily versus placebo for the prevention of travelers' diarrhea. Method The study population was comprised of participants in 2-week medical-missions projects based in Latin America and the Caribbean. The diverse age group and varied study sites closely resembles the population of travelers who seek pretravel advice from physicians. A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled comparison was designed. Subjects who developed diarrhea, defined as three stools in 8 hours plus one or more signs of an enteric infection, were considered prophylaxis failures. Stool specimens were collected and examined for the presence of enteric pathogens. DNA probes were used to determine the presence of diarrheagenic E. coli. Bacterial colony blots were used. Adverse events were recorded by participants in a diary. Results Three hundred and forty-four subjects were entered in the study, of which two hundred and seventy-eight subjects met the criteria for the efficacy and safety review. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive ciprofloxacin (500 mg), TMP/SMZ (160/ 800 mg), or placebo. Five of the 99 (5%) subjects taking ciprofloxacin, 14 of the 87 (16%) taking TMP/SMZ, and 30 of the 92 (33%) taking placebo experienced diarrhea. Bacterial pathogens were identified more commonly in the TMP/SMZ and placebo groups than in the ciprofloxacin-treated group. The incidence of adverse reactions was 9.0%, 14.8%, and 7.5% for ciprofloxacin, TMP SMZ, and placebo subjects, respectively (p =.287). Conclusion Ciprofloxacin 500 mg once daily provides safe and effective prophylaxis for travelers' diarrhea and is superior to TMP/SMZ (160/800 mg).
FOREIGN AID AND CAPITAL FLIGHT

Over the years Bangladesh has received a massive inflow of foreign capital, mostly in the form of foreign aid, which has coincided with a substantial outflow of domestic capital. This flight of domestic capital from a capital-scarce country like Bangladesh undoubtedly poses a formidable hurdle to achieving its long-term development objectives. A hypothesis can be put forth that the inflow of foreign capital directly contributes to the outflow of domestic capital. This paper applies the Engle–Granger cointegration procedure to estimate the short-run dynamic and the long-run equilibrium behavior of capital flight from Bangladesh. The estimated results support the hypothesis that the inflow of foreign aid has in fact significantly contributed to the flight of domestic capital. Furthermore, the estimated results suggest that lower real GDP growth, increases in corporate taxes, financial repression and political instability also significantly contribute to capital flight from Bangladesh. These results yield cr...
Widespread differentiation stage-specific expression of the gene encoding phosphoprotein p19 (metablastin) in mammalian cells.

Abstract p19 is a highly conserved 19 kD cytosolic protein that undergoes phosphorylation in response to diverse extracellular factors in mammalian cells. Its expression is abundant in brain and testis and is developmentally regulated. To gain insights regarding its function. we analyzed the expression of p19 mRNA in a variety of cell types during induction of differentiation. Murine erythroleukemia cells showed a moderate increase followed by a marked decrease in the abundance of p19 mRNA during induction of differentiation. In murine C2 myoblasts and primary fetal rat osteoblasts, p19 mRNA was abundant in replicating cells and decreased to undetectable levels during differentiation. In resting human peripheral blood lymphocytes, p19 mRNA was virtually undetectable but was strongly induced during blast transformation of both B and T cells. In rat liver, p19 mRNA was abundant on embryonic day 17 and decreased during early postnatal development. Upon fractionation of adult rat liver cells by centrifugal elutriation, p19 mRNA was not detected in hepatocytes while a low level was observed in a fraction enriched in non-parenchymal epithelial cells. CCI4-induced liver regeneration resulted in induction of p19 mRNA in hepatocytes. Primary cultures of embryonic and neonatal rat brain were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence using co-staining with stage-specific markers. p19 expression was restricted to immature neurons and oligodendrocyte precursors. In contrast to the other cell types examined, the neuronal and glial precursors that express p19 were shown, using BrdU labeling, to be postmitotic both in primary culture and in vivo. The data demonstrate widespread, stage-specific expression of p19 and suggest that the protein exerts a general, lineage-independent function during induction of differentiation of mammalian cells. In view of the available evidence on the stimulation of serine phosphorylation of p19 by several growth factors, our working hypothesis is that phosphorylation of p19 may be involved in the mechanism by which growth factors control cell differentiation.
“Frustration” from witholding reinforcing intracranial stimulation

Abstract Rats and guinea pigs were trained on a multiple schedule consisting of the following sequence: a fixed ratio of 8:1 which produced a reinforcement and terminated that segment of the schedule; a 10-sec time out; a fixed interval of 2 min which produced a reinforcement and terminated that segment of the schedule; a 10-sec time out; with this cycle recurring regularly in the same sequence. Three reinforcement conditions were used: 20 intracranial self-stimulations (each requiring a separate lever response); 20 intracranial stimulations delivered without the necessity of responding; and sugar water. Frustration consisted of reinforcement being eliminated at the end of an arbitrarily selected fixed-ratio segment, or of extending the time out at the end of such a segment to 2.5 min. For all subjects, responding increased during the fixed-interval segment immediately following frustration. The results supported the hypothesis that intracranial stimulation acts as any conventional reinforcing stimulus.
Generalized Theory for Evolution and Dispersion of H2S From Alkaline Muds

This paper develops a general theory to describe the evolution and dispersion of H/sub 2/S from alkaline drilling mud into which CH/sub 4/, H/sub 2/S, and CO/sub 2/ have intruded downhole. The theory is based on an assumed general form for the electrical neutrality condition between all dissolved ionic species. Also assumed operative are mass-action laws for the several sulfide and carbonate species and Henry's law for the partial pressure of CO/sub 2/ and H/sub 2/S above the mud. These constraints and a modified form of the Pasquill-Gifford equation are then used to calculate H/sub 2/S levels at any position downwind from the wellhead. Required input variables for the calculation include the initial pH and P /SUB m/ of the mud, the mud flow rate, total gas intrusion rate, and mole fraction of H/sub 2/S and CO/sub 2/ in the intruding gas. The theory provides a rational model for estimating effects of these variables on gaseous H/sub 2/S levels downwind and indicates severe limitations on the alkaline method for controlling sour gas intrusions.
A silicon nanoparticle/reduced graphene oxide composite anode with excellent nanoparticle dispersion to improve lithium ion battery performance

Composite anodes of Si nanoparticles (SiNPs) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheets with highly dispersed SiNPs were synthesized to investigate the performance-related improvements that particle dispersion can impart. Three composites with varying degrees of particle dispersions were prepared using different ultrasonication, and a combination of ultrasonication and surfactant. With more dispersed SiNPs, the capacity retention and rate performance as evaluated by galvanostatic cycling using increasing current density rates (500–2500 mA/g) also improved compared with anodes that have poor particle dispersion. These results demonstrate that better nanoparticle dispersion (small clusters to mono-dispersed particles) between the stable and the highly conducting RGO layers, allows the carbonaceous matrix material to complement the SiNP-Li+ electrochemistry by becoming highly involved in the charge–discharge reaction mechanisms as indicated by chronopotentiometry and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Particle dispersion improvement was confirmed to be a key component in a composite anode design to maximize Si for high-performance lithium ion battery (LIB) application.