cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesizing arbitrary two-photon polarization mixed states

Two methods for creating arbitrary two-photon polarization pure states are introduced. Based on these, four schemes for creating two-photon polarization mixed states are proposed and analyzed. The first two schemes can synthesize completely arbitrary two-qubit mixed states, i.e., control all 15 free parameters: scheme I requires several sets of crystals, while scheme II requires only a single set, but relies on decohering the pump beam. Additionally, we describe two further schemes which are much easier to implement. Although the total capability of these is still being studied, we show that they can synthesize all two-qubit Werner states, maximally entangled mixed states, Collins-Gisin states, and arbitrary Bell-diagonal states.
The Relationship of Practice Beliefs and Practice Behaviors among Social Workers with Lesbian and Gay Clients

This study explores the levels of beliefs about practice and practice behaviors with lesbian and gay clients among social work practitioners in a medical setting. The Gay Affirmative Practice scale was utilized to measure the levels of gay affirmative practice beliefs and practice behaviors among the sample surveyed. The relationship of practice beliefs and practice behaviors is explored and reveals that practice beliefs are significant to practice behaviors with lesbian and gay individuals. The results identify variables that contribute to practice beliefs and practice behaviors.
Impact of Thermal Processing on Sulforaphane Yield from Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. ssp. italica)

In broccoli, sulforaphane forms when the glucosinolate glucoraphanin is hydrolyzed by the endogenous plant thiohydrolase myrosinase. A myrosinase cofactor directs hydrolysis away from the formation of bioactive sulforaphane and toward an inactive product, sulforaphane nitrile. The cofactor is more heat sensitive than myrosinase, presenting an opportunity to preferentially direct hydrolysis toward sulforaphane formation through regulation of thermal processing. Four broccoli cultivars were microwave heated, boiled, or steamed for various lengths of time. Production of nitrile during hydrolysis of unheated broccoli varied among cultivars from 91 to 52% of hydrolysis products (Pinnacle > Marathon > Patriot > Brigadier). Boiling and microwave heating caused an initial loss of nitrile, with a concomitant increase in sulforaphane, followed by loss of sulforaphane, all within 1 min. In contrast, steaming enhanced sulforaphane yield between 1.0 and 3.0 min in all but Brigadier. These data are proof of concept that steaming for 1.0-3.0 min provides less nitrile and more sulforaphane yield from a broccoli meal.
Preparation of crystalline sodium norcarnitine: An easily handled precursor for the preparation of carnitine analogs and radiolabeled carnitine

A procedure by which crystalline sodium norcarnitine can be prepared in large quantities and high yields has been developed. Carnitine is selectively demethylated by thiophenoxide ion in N,N-dimethylethanolamine. The reactive thiophenoxide ion is generated in situ by addition of thiophenol to this basic reaction solvent. Hence, sodium thiophenoxide, which has been used in similar applications, but is difficult to prepare, can be avoided. Accordingly, reaction of (R,S)-carnitine followed by aqueous azeotropic distillation of byproducts as well as excess starting materials and then by neutralization with sodium hydroxide gave sodium norcarnitine in 89% yield. (R)-Carnitine gave 91% yield of (R)-norcarnitine zwitterion before neutralization. A method for the facile preparation of radiolabeled (R)-carnitine is also described. Thus, methylation of sodium norcarnitine with methyl iodide in methanolic acetone produced carnitine, which precipitated, and sodium iodide, which was soluble.
A 1Π ← χ1Σ+ resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization of jet-cooled CO

We report the observation of two-photon resonance enhancement in the four-photon tunable dye laser-induced multiphoton ionization spectrum of CO. The observed structure is readily assigned to the rotational bands of the A 1Π ← χ1Σ+ (3,0) transition of CO.
Advances in image-guided intratumoral drug delivery techniques

Image-guided drug delivery provides a means for treating a variety of diseases with minimal systemic involvement while concurrently monitoring treatment efficacy. These therapies are particularly useful to the field of interventional oncology, where elevation of tumor drug levels, reduction of systemic side effects and post-therapy assessment are essential. This review highlights three such image-guided procedures: transarterial chemoembolization, drug-eluting implants and convection-enhanced delivery. Advancements in medical imaging technology have resulted in a growing number of new applications, including image-guided drug delivery. This minimally invasive approach provides a comprehensive answer to many challenges with local drug delivery. Future evolution of imaging devices, image-acquisition techniques and multifunctional delivery agents will lead to a paradigm shift in patient care.
MR findings of pineal yolk sac tumor in a patient with testicular embryonal carcinoma

Magnetic resonance imaging features of a rare pineal region yolk sac tumor found in a 31-year-old man with a history of previously treated embryonal cell carcinoma of the testicle are presented. No specific magnetic resonance imaging features that definitely differentiate yolk sac tumor from other pineal region tumors could be found. However, in individuals with a previously established testicular germ cell tumor, a metastatic or secondary primary germ cell tumor should be suspected when there is a newly diagnosed pineal region mass. Serum tumor markers are helpful in confirming the diagnosis of a germ cell tumor.
Selective in situ hybridization histochemical analyses of alternatively spliced mRNAs encoding β- and γ-preprotachykinins in rat central nervous system

The present study describes the development of an in situ hybridization histochemistry (ISHH) procedure which was employed to selectively monitor cellular distributions of the 2 major alternatively spliced beta- and gamma-species of mRNA encoding preprotachykinin (PPT) molecules found in rat CNS. For these purposes, 2 custom-designed oligodeoxynucleotide probes were synthesized corresponding to complementary sequences of beta- and gamma-PPT mRNAs. In particular, the gamma-selective probe was demonstrated to hybridize to the contiguous regions of RNA flanking the splice site formed by exclusion of exon 4. Initially, Northern blot analyses performed in conjunction with appropriate specificity controls demonstrated selective hybridization of the 32P-labeled beta- and gamma-selective probes to single bands of approximately 1.2-1.3 kilobases in size, consistent with previously established values for rat brain beta- and gamma-PPT mRNAs. In anatomical studies, results obtained from absorptions using competing nonradiolabeled oligonucleotides defined the specificity and selectivity of both probes for targeting their respective species of mRNA immobilized within sections of brain tissue. Extensive ISHH analyses using both beta- and gamma-selective probes demonstrated similar patterns of cellular labeling in all of the examined CNS areas. In addition, data obtained from analyses of adjacent thin sections of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) indicated that beta- and gamma-PPT mRNAs were colocalized within individual DRG neurons, thereby suggesting generalized coexpression at the cellular level of both forms of mRNA. These data were complemented by semi-quantitative analyses which yielded cellular or intrinsic molar ratios of beta- to gamma-PPT mRNA of approximately 1:2-1:3, consistent with those values previously determined by nuclease protection analyses. In sum, a reasonable hypothesis evolving from the anatomical studies in combination with previous biochemical data supports the existence of a strong homeostatic mechanism involved in the maintenance of relatively constant intrinsic molar ratios of beta- to gamma-PPT mRNA by tachykinin-expressing neurons. The biological relevance of this putative fundamental relationship is discussed in the context of posttranslational processing of PPT molecules and of expression of mature tachykinins.
Chemical shift correlations in the 13C, 17O and 31P NMR spectra of some Mo(CO)4((PPh2O)2Y(R)R′) (Y(R) = P(O), Si(Me); R′ = alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl) and [Mo(CO)4(PPh2O)2]2Si complexes

Abstract The syntheses and 13 C, 17 O, 29 Si and 31 P NMR spectra of a series of Mo(CO) 4 ((PPh 2 O) 2 Y(R)R′) (Y(R) = P(O), Si(Me); R′=alkyl, haloalkyl, aryl) and [Mo(CO) 4 (PPh 2 O) 2 ] 2 Si complexes are given. The chemical shift ranges of the cis and trans carbonyl 13 C and 17 O, phenyl C(1) 13 C and 31 P resonances are relatively large and, with the exception of the cis carbonyl 17 O chemical shifts, the correlations between the chemical shifts of the various resonances are excellent. These correlations are consistent with the model of metal carbonyl 13 C and 17 O chemical shifts proposed by Bodner and Todd. In addition they allow the model to be extended to include the diphenylphosphinite 31 P chemical shifts in these complexes. The excellent correlations may be due to the presence of the chelate ring which limits the rotation around the molybdenum-phosphorus bond and to the fact that all three groups directly bonded to the phosphorus remains constant.
Contributions of short- and long-shoots to yield of 'Kerman' pistachio (Pistacia vera L.)

Abstract The canopy of a mature ‘Kerman’ pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) tree is composed of two types of shoots: short-shoots composed entirely of preformed nodes, and long-shoots composed of both preformed and neoformed nodes. Since the production of these two types of shoots is known to be related to rootstock and rootstock influences yield of pistachio the relationship of these two types of shoots to yield was investigated during two cropping years. Individual short-shoots produced significantly less yield and had fewer fruit clusters per shoot compared with long-shoots, but collectively produced 55–60% of the total yield. Long-shoots positively affected yield components in one year, but had no effect in the other year. Whether the differences in the one year were due to canopy position and light interception or differences in the carbohydrate allocation within the two types of shoots could not be determined from the current data. Long-shoots initiated more inflorescence buds, although inflorescence bud formation was restricted to the preformed growth and only the 3–4 earliest neoformed nodes. However, when expressed as a percentage, long-shoots retained a lower percentage of initiated inflorescence buds, compared with short-shoots. Regardless of shoot type, less than half of the retained inflorescence buds produced mature fruit clusters. Thus, inflorescence bud retention, a previously hypothesized mechanism of pistachio alternate bearing, may not be the primary limiting factor to yield in pistachio.
Identification of 3-Hydroxykynurenine and Xanthurenic Acid and Quantitation of 3-Hydroxykynurenine Transaminase Activity Using HPLC with Electrochemical Detection

Abstract Identification of 3-hydroxykynurenine and xanthurenic acid and determination of 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase activity using HPLC with electrochemical detection (HPLC-ED) are described using mosquito larval samples as testing materials. Results indicate that 3-hydroxykynurenine and xanthurenic acid in crude biological samples can be identified based on their electrochemical and chromatographic behaviors during HPLC-ED analysis. Xanthurenic acid is produced through transamination of 3-hydroxykynurenine, and identification of xanthurenic acid in the mosquito larval extract also leads to the detection of 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase activity in this insect species. Using the same HPLC-ED technique, a method to detect and quantitate 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase activity is developed using isolated mosquito larval protein as enzyme source, and the applicability of the HPLC-ED transaminase assay for samples from other resources is demonstrated using supernatant of mouse liver and kidney homo...
Electrical signatures of ethanol-liquid mixtures: implications for monitoring biofuels migration in the subsurface

Ethanol (EtOH), an emerging contaminant with potential direct and indirect environmental effects, poses threats to water supplies when spilled in large volumes. A series of experiments was directed at understanding the electrical geophysical signatures arising from groundwater contamination by ethanol. Conductivity measurements were performed at the laboratory scale on EtOH-water mixtures (0 to 0.97 v/v EtOH) and EtOH-salt solution mixtures (0 to 0.99 v/v EtOH) with and without a sand matrix using a conductivity probe and a four-electrode electrical measurement over the low frequency range (1-1000 Hz). A Lichtenecker-Rother (L-R) type mixing model was used to simulate electrical conductivity as a function of EtOH concentration in the mixture. For all three experimental treatments increasing EtOH concentration resulted in a decrease in measured conductivity magnitude (|σ|). The applied L-R model fitted the experimental data at concentration ≤0.4v/v EtOH, presumably due to predominant and symmetric intermolecular (EtOH-water) interaction in the mixture. The deviation of the experimental |σ| data from the model prediction at higher EtOH concentrations may be associated with hydrophobic effects of EtOH-EtOH interactions in the mixture. The |σ| data presumably reflected changes in relative strength of the three types of interactions (water-water, EtOH-water, and EtOH-EtOH) occurring simultaneously in EtOH-water mixtures as the ratio of EtOH to water changed. No evidence of measurable polarization effects at the EtOH-water and EtOH-water-mineral interfaces over the investigated frequency range was found. Our results indicate the potential for using electrical measurements to characterize and monitor EtOH spills in the subsurface.
Implementation of a Diabetes Education Kiosk in a Low-Income Clinical Setting: A Community Implementation Process

The rapid rise in rates of diabetes among the U.S. population1 underscores the crucial need for assistance in everyday self-management of chronic illness.2,3 Yet, a major gap exists in the dissemination and implementation of research findings on 1 ) the extent to which communities are aware of best practice guidelines for diabetes prevention and management and 2 ) strategies for assisting communities in adopting identified best practices.4 A community needs assessment of key stakeholders in central Texas revealed a need for diabetes patient education in low-literacy rural communities because of residents' limited access to trained educators for diabetes self-management.5 In an effort to address the double challenges of limited access to health care providers (HCPs) and insufficient educational materials for disadvantaged, at-risk populations, the Diabetes Prevention and Management Program (DPMP) at the Center for Community Health Development6 developed a low-literacy, touch-screen computer module, the Diabetes Education Kiosk (DEK). The DEK is a form of interactive behavior-change technology (IBCT) designed to encourage healthy behavior changes by motivating patients to be more independent and improve their self-management with little or no assistance from their HCPs.7 IBCT can also improve communication between patients and health care teams by facilitating clinicians' review of patients' status and guiding delivery of educational messages.8 IBCTs include the use of hardware and software to promote and sustain behavior changes. Examples include e-mail messages, patient-centered websites, personal digital assistants, DVDs, smartphone and iPad applications, voice-response or automated phone calls, and touch-screen kiosks. Touch-screen kiosks or monitors have been used effectively for health education and other medical purposes.9–12 This article describes the pilot implementation of a computer-based touch-screen diabetes educational training tool in a central Texas family medicine residency training clinical setting that serves predominantly low-income and low-literacy patient populations. …
Nanogel Star Polymer Architectures: A Nanoparticle Platform for Modular Programmable Macromolecular Self-Assembly, Intercellular Transport, and Dual-Mode Cargo Delivery

There is a growing demand for the simultaneous, site-localized delivery and expression of tandem functionality within the human body. [1–7] The benefits of dual delivery of functional cargos such as two (synergistic) therapeutics, [8,9] a therapeutic and an imaging agent, [4,10] or dual-mode imaging agents [11,12] have all been recently reported. For many medical applications requiring such in vivo expression of exogenous functional materials, the use of polymeric nanoparticle delivery vehicles of increasingly complex design is envisioned. Currently, organic nanoparticle platforms under development for these purposes include liposomes, [13] dendrimers,[14] and micelles. [15] Alternatively, star polymers (unimolecular, globular, polymer architectures) are an increasingly attractive class of organic nanoparticles for biomedical research purposes. [16–18] Although topographically similar to dendrimers (i.e., a high local density of polymeric arms, surface functionality, and interstitial regions), they lack the synthetic and structural limitations of dendrimers [19,20] and the dynamic instability of micelles [21] and liposomes. [22] Nanogel star polymers, i.e., those with polymer “arms” emanating from a cross-linked polymer core, [23,24] in particular, offer a potential for variation in nanoparticle structure and surface functional, i.e., arm density but are among the most synthetically demanding of polymeric nanostructures to develop. [25–29]
Sequences of regular summability matrices

nmatrix A the set of x cl~ which are transformed by A to convergent sequences is called the (bounded) summability field of A. A is called regular if its summabflity field contains the convergent sequences and if the limit is preserved. It is well known that the summability field of a regular matrix A is nowhere dense in l~. It is our conjecture that the summability field of a regular A is so thin that the union of countably many such sets is still nowhere dense in l~. In this note we do not prove the full conjecture but show that for a countable set of regular, nonnegative, matrices the union of their summability fields is nondense in l~.
Rapid cell-free CD4 enumeration using whole saliva

The determination of CD4 counts in patients with HIV/AIDS is of paramount importance clinically to determine when to initiate anti-retroviral therapy (ART). ART slows disease progression, reduces viral load and significantly reduces HIV transmission. Currently, the only methods for obtaining CD4 counts use flow cytometry technology. Unfortunately, the latter technologies require fresh cells, reliable and stable electricity, a high degree of technical training for laboratory personnel, expensive instrumentation, and calibrated pipetting which is often unavailable in rural areas or in resource-limited environments. A rapid, inexpensive, point-of-care method would overcome a critical barrier to HIV prevention because it would have a major impact on the cost and health outcomes of patients as well as the frequency of HIV transmission, all of which markedly impact global economy. A commonly used cost-saving and time-saving laboratory strategy is to calculate, rather than measure certain blood values. For example, LDL levels are calculated using measured levels of total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides. Thus, identification of cell-free correlates that directly regulate the number of CD4+ T cells could provide an accurate method for calculating CD4 counts due to the physiological relevance of the correlates. We have recently determined that α1proteinase inhibitor (α1PI, α1antitrypsin) participates in regulating the number of CD4+ T cells in blood.
Funikuläre Myelose oder spinale Ischämie

Die funikulare Myelose kann sich atypisch mit akuter und rasch fluktuierender spinaler Symptomatik manifestieren, sodass diagnostisch die Abgrenzung von einer spinalen Ischamie erforderlich ist. Die DWI kann bei akut einsetzender Symptomatik moglicherweise in Erganzung zur konventionellen MR-Bildgebung die Differenzierung zwischen spinaler Infarzierung und funikularer Myelose ermoglichen. Allerdings ist die DWI noch kein etabliertes Verfahren zur Erfassung spinaler ischamischer Lasionen, sodass noch weitere Erfahrungen gesammelt werden mussen.
The wilderness within: reflections on leisure and life, 4th ed., by Daniel L. Dustin

The wilderness within: reflections on leisure and life is a collection of essays by the author arranged loosely in chronological order of life experiences relating to leisure and life as the title ...
The UMOJA principle in action: African Americans forging twenty-first century families

Married or cohabitating African American couples attempting to create and lead functional, satisfying families face many obstacles to their goals. However, the complexity of these obstacles is often obscure to them and to helping professionals attempting to provide services to them. Therefore, clinicians, administrators, and policy makers should consider the wide array of challenges preventing African Americans from acting on the UMOJA principle. Then, appropriate interventions and policies can be crafted to promote healthy, twenty-first century families.
Renalase is an α-NAD(P)H oxidase/anomerase.

Renalase is a protein hormone secreted into the blood by the kidney that is reported to lower blood pressure and slow heart rate. Since its discovery in 2005, renalase has been the subject of conjecture pertaining to its catalytic function. While it has been widely reported that renalase is the third monoamine oxidase (monoamine oxidase C) that oxidizes circulating catecholamines such as epinephrine, there has been no convincing demonstration of this catalysis in vitro. Renalase is a flavoprotein whose structural topology is similar to known oxidases, lysine demethylases, and monooxygenases, but its active site bears no resemblance to that of any known flavoprotein. We have identified the catalytic activity of renalase as an α-NAD(P)H oxidase/anomerase, whereby low equilibrium concentrations of the α-anomer of NADPH and NADH initiate rapid reduction of the renalase flavin cofactor. The reduced cofactor then reacts with dioxygen to form hydrogen peroxide and releases nicotinamide dinucleotide product in th...
Multiple HPA profiles in endogenous depression: Effect of age and sex on cortisol and beta-endorphin

We have previously shown that a number of depressed patients demonstrated a failure to suppress corticotrophic secretion, as measured by beta-Endorphin/beta-Lipotropin (beta-End/beta-LPH levels), following dexamethasone challenge. The current study is an extension and replication of these findings, as well as an analysis of some of the biological variables which may contribute to the variance in beta-End/beta-LPH nonsuppression. We continue to observe a high rate of beta-End/beta-LPH nonsuppression in depressed patients following dexamethasone; this escape at the pituitary level is even observed in a number of patients who demonstrate normal cortisol suppression. Advancing age, particularly in women, led to higher baseline cortisol, lower baseline beta-End/beta-LPH, and a greater likelihood of being a nonsuppressor on one or both measures.
Twisted tensor product codes

We present two families of constacyclic linear codes with large automorphism groups. The codes are obtained from the twisted tensor product construction.
Uranium isotopes in the Platte River drainage basin of the North American High plains Region

Abstract The North and South Platte Rivers contribute sigficant concentrations of dissolved uranium to the Platte River system from the weathering of uraniferous rocks at their headwaters in Colorado and Wyoming. Uranium isotopes measured in three groups of samples collected from the Platte River and its major tributaries exhibted a wide range of concentrations (0.27–31.7 μg/l) and activity ratios (1.03–1.72) reflecting variations in the contributions of different sources under differing flow conditions. Locally elevated uranium concentrations and higher activity ratios were associated with groundwater sources during low flow periods. Uranium concentrations in surface runoff were lower than in baseflow and correlated significantly with dissolved solids. Uranium activity ratios in runoff were closer to equilibrium values than those in baseflow suggesting that dissolved uranium in runoff is less affected by disequilibrium processes. Mixing calculations using uranium concentrations and activity ratios indicate considerable variations in longitudinal and transverse mixing of tributary water with Plate River water, and temporal variations of groundwater contributions (baseflow and irrigation return flow) in the Plate River system.
RET application in 45-nm node and 32-nm node contact hole dry ArF lithography process development

It is challenging to develop 45nm node contact hole using dry ArF lithography process with acceptable lithographic margin due to small process window and large mask error enhancement factor (MEEF). No single process using conventional lithography without resolution enhancement technique (RET) application will meet DOF requirement of 45nm node contact hole. We have developed dry ArF lithography processes for 45nm node contact hole on scanner ASML XT1400E by applying RETs including off-axis illumination, SAFIER (Shrink Assist Film for Enhanced Resolution) process, EFESE (focus scan), etc. The paper will discuss process window through pitches with optimized illumination, and where to separate pitches in case of double exposure with consideration of DOF and OPC model simulation. It will look into the effect of EFESE on DOF improvement, proximity, and MEEF at various pitches. The paper will also discuss OPC modeling strategy for 45nm node contact/via hole. It will analyze the effect of OPC grid size on OPC run time, file size, and edge placement error (EPE). To extend process further to 32nm node, we demonstrated the process capability for 32nm node hole using double patterning technique. We achieved 50nm final hole CD with pitch of 100nm. A hard mask (HM) technique was implemented in the process. The dense feature is designed into two complementary parts on two masks such that the density is reduced by half and minimum pitch is increased by at least a factor of 21/2 depending on design. The complete patters are formed with two litho-etch process steps. After the first mask litho process, the HM is etched. Then the second mask litho process is carried out and followed by a second HM etch and main etch.
An immunotherapeutic approach to treatment of breast cancer : focus on trastuzumab plus paclitaxel

Recent emphasis has focused on the development of an immunotherapeutic approach toward the treatment of breast cancer. In particular, evaluation of antibodies and vaccines are active areas of research. The monoclonal antibody trastuzumab (H), directed against the HER-2/neu protein, has resulted in inhibition of tumor growth in both preclinical and clinical studies. This effect can be increased when used in combination with several chemotherapeutic agents. A randomized trial of chemotherapy alone versus chemotherapy plus H in untreated metastatic breast cancer patients found prolonged survival in the combination therapy arm. Cardiac toxicity was increased with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide plus H but not for paclitaxel (T) plus H. Several trials of dose-dense weekly T have found minimal toxicity and significant clinical benefit. These findings prompted the initiation of a trial to evaluate weekly 1-h T plus weekly H. Preliminary data from this ongoing study demonstrate few side effects and a response rate of 64% (95%CI 42-76%). The optimal role of H in the treatment of breast cancer has not yet been defined. Additional evaluation in the metastatic and adjuvant settings is planned.
Gelation mechanism of protein solution by transglutaminase.

Transglutaminase catalyzes the formation of e-(γ-glutamyl)lysyl cross-links within and between protein molecules. Therefore, transglutaminase polymerizes proteins through the formation of isopeptide bonds. We have reported that several high-concentration protein solutions formed firm gels when they were incubated with transglutaminase. This paper presents unambiguous evidence that αs1-casein solution is gelled by the formation of e-(γ-glutamyl)lysyl cross-links. Gelation of αs1-casein was effected by the amount of transglutaminase and pH value, and αs1-casein gel was not dissolved by various denaturants. Succinylated αs1-casein, in which e-amino groups of lysine residues are blocked, was not gelled by transglutaminase. Therefore, it is confirmed that αs1-casein is formed by the action of transglutaminase.
Circadian rhythms of the German cockroach (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae): Locomotion in response to different photoperiods and wavelengths of light

Abstract Male German cockroaches, Blattella germanica (L.), exposed to 12 h light-12 h dark, constant darkness and constant light in ultraviolet (u.v., 365 nm peak), blue green (495 nm peak) or white (about 400–1100 nm) light exhibited different rhythms and magnitudes of locomotion. All wavelengths induced a bimodal pattern of nocturnal activity in 12 h light-12 h dark, which was maintained as a free-running rhythm with a shorter period in constant darkness; activity was suppressed in constant light. Ultraviolet caused the greatest change in locomotion during transitions between photoperiods, but blue-green established a free-running rhythm that was maintained for longer. Since different sensory cells and perhaps pathways are involved in processing ultraviolet and blue-green light, ultraviolet could mediate direct responses to light stimuli and blue-green may regulate more complex behaviour.
Empirical Evidence on International Monetary Market Currency Futures

This paper empirically investigates three questions concerning currency futures traded on the International Monetary Market (IMM) of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange: 1) Are currency future prices consonant with the interest rate parity theorem? 2) Does a characteristic bias exist in the currency futures prices? 3) What has been the holding period return experience of currency futures since their inception on the IMM?
There Exists a Problem Whose Computational Complexity Is Any Given Function of the Information Complexity

We present an information-based complexity problem for which the computational complexity can be any given increasing function of the information complexity, and the information complexity can be any non-decreasing function of ??1, where ? is the error parameter.
Longitudinal and Transverse Phonon Transport in Dielectric Crystals

Longitudinal and transverse modes of thermal disturbances in isotopically pure alkali-halide crystals are derived from phonon hydrodynamics. Guyer-Krumhansl (GK) model of phonon scattering is first recovered by relating the first and second viscosity to the relaxation times. Helmholtz potentials are then introduced to split the two modes from the heat flux vector. It has been found that the scalar potential coincides with the heat equation in the dual-phase-lag model, while the vector potential describes dispersive transverse phonons and introduces a new type of equation in microscale heat transfer.
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 5b promotes mucosal tolerance in pediatric Crohn's disease and murine colitis.

Growth hormone (GH) regulates anabolic metabolism via activation of the STAT5b transcription factor and reduces mucosal inflammation in colitis. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ suppresses mucosal inflammation and is regulated by GH through STAT5b. We hypothesized that the GH:STAT5b axis influences susceptibility to colitis via regulation of local PPARγ abundance. Colon biopsies from children with newly diagnosed Crohn's disease (CD) and controls were exposed to GH in short-term organ culture. Trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) administration was used to induce colitis in STAT5b-deficient mice and wild-type controls, with and without rosiglitazone pretreatment. GH receptor, STAT5b, PPARγ, and nuclear factor κB activation and expression were determined. Epithelial cell GH receptor expression and GH-dependent STAT5b activation and PPARγ expression were reduced in CD colon. STAT5b-deficient mice exhibited reduced basal PPARγ nuclear abundance and developed more severe proximal colitis after TNBS administration. This was associated with a significant increase in mucosal nuclear factor κB activation at baseline and after TNBS administration. Rosiglitazone ameliorated colitis in wild-type mice but not STAT5b-deficient mice. GH-dependent STAT5b activation is impaired in affected CD colon and contributes to chronic mucosal inflammation via down-regulation of local PPARγ expression. Therapeutic activation of the GH:STAT5b axis therefore represents a novel target for restoring both normal anabolic metabolism and mucosal tolerance in CD.
Nucleation of planar magnetization in ultra-thin magnetic films

Abstract We study theoretically the magnetization reversal of Heisenberg spins in a 2D plane under an external reversing field at finite temperatures. Nucleation is observed in a Monte Carlo simulation for an array of spins interacting with exchange, anisotropic and dipolar interactions. The nucleus is elliptical in shape. The eccentricity is smaller the larger the dipolar interaction is with respect to the exchange. The coercive field seems to depend linearly on the temperature.
Plasma lactate and diabetes risk in 8045 participants of the atherosclerosis risk in communities study.

Abstract Purpose Determinants of oxidative capacity, such as fitness and level of adiposity, are strongly associated with type 2 diabetes. Whether decreased oxidative capacity itself is a cause or consequence of insulin resistance and diabetes is unknown. Methods We examined the association of plasma lactate, a marker of oxidative capacity, with incident diabetes in 8045 participants from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study with no history of subclinical or diagnosed diabetes at baseline (1996–1998). Incident diabetes was self-reported during annual telephone calls. Results During a median follow-up of 12 years, there were 1513 new cases of diabetes. In Cox proportional hazards models, baseline plasma lactate (per 10 mg/dL) was significantly associated with diabetes (hazard ratio, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.43), even after adjustment for diabetes risk factors, fasting glucose, and insulin. The upper quartile of baseline lactate (≥8.1 mg/dL) was also significantly associated with diabetes risk (hazard ratio, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.41) compared with the lowest quartile (≤5.1 mg/dL). Significant associations persisted among persons without insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance index Conclusions These findings suggest that low oxidative capacity may precede diabetes. Future studies should evaluate the physiological origins of elevated lactate to better understand its possible role in the pathogenesis of diabetes.
Free calcium concentrations in bullfrog rods determined in the presence of multiple forms of Fura-2

We employed the fluorescent calcium indicator Fura-2, loaded into intact retinas of the bullfrog Rana catesbeiana, to measure free calcium concentrations in the rod outer-segment cytosol. We determined that traditional methods of calculation yielded erroneous values of calcium. This error results from the presence of at least two distinct pools of Fura-2 in rod outer segments. Application of manganese quenches each pool, but quenching occurs at different rates. Using this fact, we show that the pools can be isolated by brief exposure to manganese and examined separately. One of these pools has the same fluorescent properties as the free salt of Fura-2 we use in our in vitro calibrations. The other source of fluorescence has more unusual properties. Although insensitive to calcium concentrations in the physiological range, it contributes significant anomalous fluorescence when cytosolic free calcium concentrations are elevated by application of IBMX. Nevertheless, the experimentally isolated, classic pool of Fura-2 is well behaved and allows us to calculate calcium concentrations relative to the Kd of Fura-2 by the usual ratio method. We show that when rods are exposed to saturating light, the free calcium concentration in their outer segments falls to a level not significantly different from zero within 20–30 s.
Asymptotic analysis of cross-hole pneumatic injection tests in unsaturated fractured tuff

We present a new method to interpret three-dimensional pressure interference tests, which is based on an asymptotic analysis of late time pressure transient data. The approach yields reliable estimates of equivalent permeability and porosity without resorting to type-curve fitting or numerical inverse models. This is accomplished by analyzing the late-time behavior of type-curve solutions for pressure interference tests. We use our approach to infer the permeability and porosity of fractured tuff from cross-hole pneumatic injection test data. Their values are found to be in good agreement with those inferred from more complicated methods of data analysis. We analyze the statistical properties of the estimated equivalent permeability and porosity and observe a weak correlation between the two.
Symmetry-Induced Modal Characteristics of Uniform Waveguides --- I: Summary of Results

The application of symmetry analysis to uniform waveguides is discussed. Symmetry analysis provides exact information concerning mode classification, mode degeneracy, modal electromagnetic-field symmetries, and the minimum waveguide sectors which completely determine the modes in each mode class. Tables are presented which list the possible mode classes and their degeneracies for the two general symmetry families, C/sub n/ and C/sub nv/, of uniform waveguides. Tables showing the azimuthal dependence of the longitudinal components of the electric and magnetic fields for each mode class are given. Based on this azimuthal dependence, figures showing the minimum waveguide sectors which are necessary and sufficient to completely determine the modes of the various mode classes are presented. The application of symmetry analysis is illustrated by considering uniform waveguides with C/sub 4/ and C/sub 6v/ symmetry.
Base-catalysed rearrangement of thebainehydroquinones.

Abstract On the basis of spectra and pKa values structures are assigned to the monomethyl ethers of thebainehydroquinone. Thebeinehydroquinone (1a) and its 21-methyl ether (1b) rearrange under basic conditions to the corresponding flavothebaones (2a and 2c). The 18-methyl ether (1c) does not rearrange. A mechanism involving a cyclopropane intermediate is proposed for the rearrangements.
Testing the intercultural model of ethical decision making with counselor trainees

A training intervention using the Intercultural Model of Ethical Decision Making was tested with a sample of 48 counselor trainees enrolled in 3 counseling courses across 2 universities. Postintervention data indicated students' scores increased significantly on 5 of 6 evaluation criteria as well as on the overall total score. Although pretest scores were significantly different between students who had taken a multicultural course and those who had not, there was no posttest difference. Implications and suggestions for future training and research are discussed.
Testicular cytosol factors inhibit the binding of steroid-receptor complexes to chromatin.

Abstract Testicular and prostatic androgen-receptor complexes as well as uterine estradiol-receptor complexes, partially purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation (15–37%), were bound to germ cell chromatin. At equivalent concentrations, less testicular androgen-receptor complexes bound to chromatin than did the other two steroid-receptor complexes. Addition of a partially purified testicular androgen-receptor preparation with prostatic androgen-reeeptor or uterine estradiol-receptor preparation to the binding interaction mixture reduced the binding of either of the latter two steroid-receptor complexes to chromatin. These data suggest the presence of inhibitory factor(s) in the testicular receptor preparations. Testicular cytosols were fractionated by ammonium sulfate precipitation into fractions A (15–37% saturation), B (37–50%) and C (50–75%). All fractions inhibit binding of these steroid-receptor complexes to chromatin. Fractions A and B appear to be heat labile, while fraction C was more stable. Further fractionation of A and C fractions on DEAE cellulose yielded A1 and C1 (filtrates) as well as A2 and C2 (0.3 M Nacl eluents), respectively. Subfractions A1, A2, and C1 contained inhibitory factors for the binding of steroid-receptor complexes to chromatin while C1 showed no effect. These data demonstrated that testicular cytosol contains a variety of inhibitory factors which affect the binding of both androgen-receptor and estradiol-receptor complexes to chromatin.
Use of Intravenous Methohexital as a Sedative in Pediatric Emergency Departments

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of intravenous methohexital as a sedative in children undergoing emergency computed tomographic scans. Design Case series. Setting An urban pediatric emergency department at a level I trauma center. Participants Patients receiving intravenous methohexital for sedation to undergo emergency computed tomographic scans. Methods Descriptive data were generated, including demographics, doses administered, times of sedation, outcomes, and complications. Results Data are reported from a total of 55 patients. The doses administered ranged from 0.5 mg/kg to 2.0 mg/kg (mean ± SD, 1 ± 0.5 mg/kg). Onset of sedation was rapid (mean ± SD, 1 ± 0.4 minutes), sedation was brief (mean ± SD, 12 ± 5 minutes), and the mean ± SD length of the drug's effects was 14 ± 6 minutes. Sedation was effective in most cases, and only a few patients had complications. Conclusion Intravenous methohexital is a short-acting and effective sedative for use in pediatric emergency departments to obtain computed tomographic scans.
Health-Care Payment Systems: Cost and Quality Incentives—Comment

This note analyzes the incentives for cost reduction that different payment policies provide to profit-maximizing health-care providers. Ching-to Albert Ma (1994) proposes a reimbursement mechanism that seeks to induce first-best cost reduction by using a combination of cost reimbursement and prospective payment in a model where higher effort on the part of the health-care provider reduces treatment costs. This note shows that a mechanism of this type, generally, will not result in first-best cost reduction. However, such a mechanism is optimal when the payer has efficiency and distributional concerns.
Finite element analysis of the pressure-induced deformation of Schlemm’s canal endothelial cells

The endothelial cells lining the inner wall of Schlemm’s canal (SC) in the eye are relatively unique in that they support a basal-to-apical pressure gradient that causes these cells to deform, creating giant vacuoles and transendothelial pores through which the aqueous humor flows. Glaucoma is associated with an increased resistance to this flow. We used finite element modeling and estimates of cell modulus made using atomic force microscopy to characterize the pressure-induced deformation of SC cells and to estimate the maximum pressure drop that SC cells can support. We examined the effects of cell geometry, cell stiffness, and the contribution of the cell cortex to support the pressure-generated load. We found that the maximum strain generated by this loading occurs at the points of cell–substrate attachment and that the cortex of the cells bears nearly all of this load. The ability of these cells to support a significant transcellular pressure drop is extremely limited (on the order of 5 mmHg or less) unless these cells either stiffen very considerably with increasing deformation or have substantial attachments to their substratum away from their periphery. This puts limits on the flow resistance that this layer can generate, which has implications regarding the site where the bulk of the flow resistance is generated in healthy and glaucomatous eyes.
A Non-Quadratic Plasticity Model Suitable for Metal Matrix Composites:

Based on the assumption that uniform dilatation has negligible effect on the yield point, a high-order yield function of non-equal stress exponents in conjunction with a non-associated flow rule is proposed to formulate 3-D plastic constitutive equations for fibrous metal matrix composites (MMC). The involved nine plastic parameters, six for the yield criterion and three for the plastic potential, can be easily calibrated with the macro stress-strain data of simple tension, pure shear, and bi-axial tension tests. It is demonstrated numerically that this theory describes anisotropic plasticity of boron-aluminum (B/Al) composites very well. It is also shown that the uniform dilatation assumption is adequate for other fiber composites. By properly selecting the plastic parameters, the present model can reduce to the nine-parameter quadratic yield function developed for graphite fiber/organic matrix composites [1], Hill's quadratic yield model [2], and von Mises and Tresca isotropic yield criteria.
Update on a Clinical Measure for the Assessment of Problem Solving

Purpose The Rapid Assessment of Problem Solving test (RAPS) is a clinical measure of problem solving based on the 20 Questions Test. This article updates clinicians on the RAPS, addresses questions raised about the test in an earlier article (R. C. Marshall, C. M. Karow, C. Morelli, K. Iden, & J. Dixon, 2003a), and discusses the clinical utility of the RAPS. Method The RAPS was administered to 373 normal adults. Tests were analyzed to assess the impact of demographic, psychometric, and other factors on performance on the RAPS. To determine the effects of strategy selection on test scores, participants were assigned to novel, category-focused, or mixed strategy groups based on the types of first questions asked. Results Normal participants exhibited a range of performance levels on the RAPS. Participants in the novel strategy group performed significantly better than the participants in 2 other strategy groups. Conclusions The RAPS is a clinically useful tool to examine problem solving that is easy to admi...
The persistent influence of concussive injuries on cognitive control and neuroelectric function.

Context: Increasing attention is being paid to the deleterious effects of sport-related concussion on cognitive and brain health. Objective: To evaluate the influence of concussion incurred during ...
Catalytic Strategy of S-Adenosyl-l-homocysteine Hydrolase: Transition-State Stabilization and the Avoidance of Abortive Reactions†

S-Adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase (AdoHcy hydrolase) crystallizes from solutions containing the intermediate analogue neplanocin A with the analogue bound in its 3‘-keto form at the active sites of all of its four subunits and the four tightly bound cofactors in their reduced (NADH) state. The enzyme is in the closed conformation, which corresponds to the structure in which the catalytic chemistry occurs. Examination of the structure in the light of available, very detailed kinetic studies [Porter, D. J., Boyd, F. L. (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 21616−21625. Porter, D. J., Boyd, F. L. (1992) J. Biol. Chem. 267, 3205−3213. Porter, D. J. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 66−73] suggests elements of the catalytic strategy of AdoHcy hydrolase for acceleration of the reversible conversion of AdoHcy to adenosine (Ado) and homocysteine (Hcy). The enzyme, each subunit of which possesses a substrate-binding domain that in the absence of substrate is in rapid motion relative to the tetrameric core of the enzyme, first binds ...