cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of glucoamylase adsorption to raw starch

The adsorption of Aspergillus niger glucoamylase forms (GA-I and GA-II) to raw corn starch was studied as a function of pH, ionic strength, and temperature. A three-parameter model was developed to account for the specific and nonspecific adsorption of GA-I to starch. The adsorption of the GA-II form to raw starch was weak and independent of the pH and ionic strength of the mixture. GA-I was bound strongly to the starch surface, with association constant values ranging from 2 to 5 × 106M−1. Maximum adsorption capacities (saturation concentrations) Qmax for GA-I were affected by pH, inonic strength, and temperature and varied between 1.6 and 4.3 mg protein g−1 starch. The tightly bound GA-I could be specifically eluted from the starch surface with maltose, maltodextrin, or soluble starch. The adsorption of GA-II to starch in the presence of acarbose (glucoamylase activity inhibitor) indicated that the active site participates minimally in the adsorption process. The comparison of the distribution coefficients of GA-I and GA-II showed that the starch-binding domain, present only in GA-I, increases the affinity of GA-I for starch by two orders of magnitude.
A polarimetric spectral imager using acousto-optic tunable filters

We report laboratory and telescopic observations with a polarimetric spectral imager based on an acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF) where we demonstrate simultaneous acquisition of orthogonally polarized images at a spectral resolving power on the order of 103 and at a Rayleigh criterion spatial resolution of 100 line pairs per mm. This matches the spatial resolution of most digital arrays. An AOTF is shown to be usable as a fast shutter with a contrast of over 104 on a sub-millisecond time scale while providing an high transmittance of about 75% (both polarizations summed) when illuminated by white light. The polarization contrast between the orthogonally polarized images exceeds 104 across the field of view, permitting accurate measurement of the polarization parameters of incident light. These characteristics are now being used in a program of high spatial resolution imaging in narrow spectral bands. Some peculiarities and limitations of AOTFs are indicated.
Transport and recombination in sputtered hydrogenated amorphous germanium

The steady-state and transient photoconductivity of sputtered hydrogenated amorphous Ge (T, = 300 K) was studied as a function of wavelength, light intensity, and temperature. The reduction of low-temperature dark conductivity and the shift to higher energies of the photoconductivity edge with hydrogenation are consistent with the notion that hydrogen eliminates states from the pseudogap. The magnitude and the temperature dependence of the drift mobility between 77 and 300 K was inferred from the measurements. Above about 200 K the mobility had an activation energy of 0.1 eV, while below 200 K it was only weakly T dependent. This variation with T is theoretically predicted from small-polaron theory, viz. , hopping with an activation energy of half the polaron binding energy above To = c the second, which is dominant at low temperatures, involves the transport (by tunneling or hopping or both) of carriers between extrinsic states with energies in the pseudogap. Understandiag of the origin and properties of these extrinsic states is essential to the establishment of an adequate description of the semiconductor. Structural measurements2 have shown that sputtered films contain a distribution of voids of the order of 5-10-A diameter. Optical, transport, and electron-spin-resonance measurements'~ have been plausibly and self-consistently interpreted on a model which identifies the majority of pseudogap electrons with those on these internal void surfaces. Deposition or annealing at high temperatures~ decreases the low-temperature conductivity, which is consistent with a reduction in the pseudogap state density and an observed decrease in the void volume. Controlled addition of hydrogen to the sputtering gas"' produces profound systematic changes in properties, which are easily understood on the supposition that the hydrogen forms a strong bond with Ge atoms on void surfaces, and thereby eliminates states from the pseudogap. Lewis' has made an extensive study of the conductivity and thermoelectric power as a function of temperature for samples of different hydrogen content prepared in this laboratory by rf sputtering.
The direct linearizing transform and the Benjamin-Ono equation

Abstract The initial value problem associated with the Benjamin-Ono equation, a physically significant nonlinear singular-integrodifferential equation, is linearized. The classical inverse scattering transform method is bypassed and an alternative method which we call the direct linearizing transform is introduced. This method applies to other nonlinear evolution equations, including multidimensional ones.
Conservative Load Projection and Tracking for Fluid-Structure Problems

The loose coupling of computational fluid dynamics and computational structural dynamics solvers introduces some problems related to the information transfer between the codes. Some techniques developed to solve the problems of the load transfer and interface surface tracking are presented. The main criterion is to achieve conservation of total loads and total energy. The load projection scheme is based on Gaussian integration and fast interpolation algorithms for unstructured grids. The surface tracking algorithm, also based on interpolation, is important for many applications, including aeroelastic deformation of wings due to aerodynamic loads. The methodologies not only improve present fluid-structure interaction simulations, but also increase the range of their applicability. These techniques are of general character and can be used in other multidisciplinary applications as well.
Improving studies of resource selection by understanding resource use.

Understanding the resource needs of animals is critical to their management and conservation. Resource utilization functions (RUFs) provide a framework to investigate animal-resource relationships by characterizing variation in the amount of resource use. In this context a ‘resource’ is any aspect of a species' fundamental niche that can be mapped throughout the area of investigation (such as study area or home range). Extensive global positioning system (GPS) data from 17 cougars (Puma concolor) demonstrate the utility and potential challenges of estimating RUFs within the home range for far-ranging species. Ninety-nine per cent utilization distributions (UDs) estimated using bivariate plug in, univariate least-squares cross-validation and reference bandwidth selection methods were compared. Distance to water, per cent clear-cut and regenerating forest, and slope were used to estimate cougar RUFs. UDs derived from GPS data were more refined, and plug-in UDs were least similar to UDs derived from other bandwidths. RUFs were resilient to variation in the smoothing parameter, with all methods yielding coefficients that largely reflected observations of foraging ecology and behaviour. Cougars were individualistic, but use was generally positively associated with the presence of regenerating forest and inversely associated with steep slopes. Advances in technology allow for greater accuracy and resolution of the UD, but software improvements and spatially explicit information on animal behaviour are needed to better understand resource use.
Nature of SU ( 3 ) × SU ( 3 ) Symmetry Breaking — Results from a Systematic Test of the Soft-Meson Theorems

We make a systematic test of soft-meson-theorem predictions for both elastic and inelastic pseudoscalar-meson-baryon threshold scattering amplitudes. The predictions are obtained by using an extrapolation procedure developed by Fubini and Furlan and by ourselves. Our results give considerable support to a theory of $\mathrm{SU}(3)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\mathrm{SU}(3)$ symmetry breaking proposed recently by Gell-Mann, Oakes, and Renner, and imply that, in the absence of symmetry breaking, the mass of the ${J}^{p}={\frac{1}{2}}^{+}$ baryon octet would be approximately that of the physical nucleon.
Human erythrocyte Ca2+-Mg2+-ATPase: mechanism of stimulation by Ca2+.

In the presence of ethylene glycol bis(β-aminoethyl ether) N,N′-tetraacetic acid (EGTA), a detergent-solubilized preparation of human erythrocyte membrane Ca2+-Mg2+-ATPase was separated by gel filtration from its activator protein, designated as calmodulin; this makes the enzyme dependent on an exogenous calmodulin for maximum activity. In the presence of Ca2+, ATPase co-migrated with calmodulin, and the enzyme activity was independent of an exogenous calmodulin, suggesting that the enzyme and calmodulin form an active holoenzyme. Lowering the Ca2+ level dissociates the two proteins, returning the enzyme activity to its basal level. A time course experiment indicated that the effect of Ca2+ on the enzyme·calmodulin complex was immediate and reversible. Calmodulin exerts its effect on ATPase primarily by increasing its V. Thus, the mode of stimulation of human erythrocyte Ca2+-Mg2+-ATPase by calmodulin appears similar to that of Ca2+-dependent adenylate cyclase and phosphodiesterase.
Object-Oriented Simulator Design For an Automated High-Speed Modular Placement Machine Family:

This paper introduces the computer model established for a new family of modular type, multi-station walking beam high-speed chip mounter (also called chip shooter) machines, and the implemented high-accuracy simula tion software. The objective of the project was the de velopment of a comprehensive simulation tool that can replace the real machines in experiments regarding sys tem analysis and setup, yet provide accurate cycle time estimation. The thorough analysis of the machines led to the understanding of the characteristics of each part of the system, as well as the hierarchy of the parts and the interaction between them. This well-defined hierar chy and separability of different parts suggest the ob ject-oriented paradigm for the implementation of the simulation software. This paper highlights the major goals successfully addressed by the developed software: the identification of the system hierarchy with its rep resentation in a C++ class structure, the implementa tion providing code efficiency, and...
M13 vectors for selective cloning of sequences specifying initiation of DNA synthesis on single-stranded templates

M13 cloning vectors have been developed for the selection of DNA sequences capable of directing initiation of DNA synthesis on single-stranded templates. These vectors are derived from viable M13 mutants containing large deletions in the region of the complementary strand origin. The deletion mutants are defective in the conversion of viral single strands to the duplex replicative form (SS leads to RF) both in vivo and in vitro, give a reduced phage yield and form turbid plaques. A receptor site for foreign single strand initiation determinants has been introduced into the mutants by the insertion of EcoRI linker sequences at the deletion sites. Specific cloned sequences from bacteriophage G4 RF and from Co1E1 DNA restore a clear plaque type and normal phage growth. Selection of clear-plaque isolates obtained by transfection with RF from one of these vectors, M13 delta E101, carrying inserted Co1E1 HaeIII fragments resulted in the selective cloning of one specific fragment, the HaeIII-E fragment. Insertion of either the H or L strand of the HaeIII-E fragment into the M13 delta E101 viral strand gives a clear plaque phenotype, indicating the presence of initiation determinants on both the H- and L-strands of the Co1E1 HaeIII-E fragment. These cloning vectors provide a new means for the functional dissection of replication origins and for the identification of DNA sequences that determine the enzymatic mechanism of discontinuous synthesis along the length of the bacterial chromosome. The ability to assess initiation capability on the basis of plaque morphology also provides a means for rapid genetic analysis of initiation determinants.
Elastoplastic modeling of metal matrix composites with evolutionary particle debonding

Abstract A microstructural-overall two-level elastoplastic and damage model is proposed to predict the overall mechanical behavior of particle-reinforced metal matrix composites. Unidirectionally aligned spheroidal elastic particles, some of which are partially debonded from the matrix, are randomly distributed in the ductile medium. These imperfect particles are modeled by fictitious orthotropic inclusions without debonding. An ensemble-volume averaged homogenization procedure is employed to estimate the effective yield function of the said composites. The associative plastic flow rule and the hardening law are postulated based on the continuum plasticity theory. The evolution of volume fraction of debonding particles is considered in accordance with Weibull’s statistical function to characterize the varying probability of reinforcement debonding. The uniaxial elastoplastic stress–strain behavior of particle composites is investigated as the first application. In particular, comparisons between the proposed uniaxial stress–strain predictions and experimental data are performed to illustrate the capability of the proposed method. Furthermore, the effect of stress triaxiality is discussed under either the purely hydrostatic or axisymmetric loading on the overall elastoplastic behavior of composites.
Differentiation of Dominant Versus Subordinate Follicles in Cattle

Selection of a dominant follicle, capable of ovulating, from among a cohort of similarly sized follicles is a critical transition in follicular development. The mechanisms that regulate the selection of a species-specific number of dominant follicles for ovulation are not well understood. Cattle provide a very useful animal model for studies on follicular selection and dominance. During the bovine estrous cycle, two or three sequential waves of follicular development occur, each producing a dominant follicle capable of ovulating if luteal regression occurs. Follicles are large enough to allow analysis of multiple endpoints within a single follicle, and follicular development and regression can be followed via ultrasonographic imaging. Characteristics of recruited and selected follicles, obtained at various times during the first follicular wave, have been determined in some studies, whereas dominant and subordinate follicles have been compared around the time of selection in others. As follicular recruitment proceeds, mRNA for P450 aromatase increases. By the time of morphological selection, the dominant follicle has much higher concentrations of estradiol in follicular fluid, and its granulosa cells produce more estradiol in vitro than cells from subordinate follicles. Shortly after selection, dominant follicles have higher levels of mRNAs for gonadotropin receptors and steroidogenic enzymes. It has been hypothesized that granulosa cells of the selected follicle acquire LH receptors (LHr) to allow them to increase aromatization in response to LH, as well as FSH. However, LH does not appear to stimulate estradiol production by bovine granulosa cells, and the role of LHr acquisition remains to be determined. Recent evidence suggests a key role for changes in the intrafollicular insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system in selection of the dominant follicle. When follicular fluid was sampled in vivo before morphological selection, the lowest concentration of IGF binding protein-4 (IGFBP-4) was more predictive of future dominance than size or estradiol concentration. Consistent with this finding, dominant follicles acquire an FSH-induced IGFBP-4 protease activity. Thus, a decrease in IGFBP-4, which would make more IGF available to interact with its receptors and synergize with FSH to promote follicular growth and aromatization, appears to be a critical determinant of follicular selection for dominance.
Strike-slip rupture patterns in sand models

Abstract Sand, in models of strike-slip deformation yields ruptures that suggest a genetic relationship between the fundamental drive in the form of horizontal translation and such possibly related phenomena as: 1. (1) concomitant dip-slip displacements at the surface. 2. (2) proliferation of ruptures at and near the surface to generate a rift pattern. 3. (3) segmentation into blocks by these ruptures, freeing them for discrete displacement relative to each other. 4. (4) thereby the creation of welts (horsts) and grabens in the rift pattern. 5. (5) adjoining arcuate thrusts, more strongly developed in a curved fundamental displacement. 6. (6) plateau type of uplift, and rises above and consequent to these thrusts.
Pleistocene Peccaries (Mammalia: Tayassuidae) from Western Oklahoma

Abstract Three new records of late Pleistocene fossil peccaries come from localities in western Oklahoma and improve on the only previous record from the state. Isolated occurrences of partial jaws at Rush Creek, Grady County, and south of Yukon, Canadian County, represent the flat-headed peccary, Platygonus compressus. An assemblage with three taxa of mammals from a canal near the Quartz Mountains, Jackson County, includes a prairie dog Cynomys, a mammoth Mammuthus, and an unidentified peccary, Tayassuidae indeterminate. The last of these specimens includes a well-preserved skeleton of a foot, partial upper tusk, and occipital condyle.
Recovery of ambulation after traumatic brain injury.

Abstract Katz DI, White DK, Alexander MP, Klein RB. Recovery of ambulation after traumatic brain injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2004;85:865–9. Objectives To identify variables that are predictive of independent ambulation after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to define the time course of recovery. Design Retrospective review of consecutive admissions of patients with severe TBI over a 32-month period. Setting Brain injury unit in an acute, inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Participants Of 264 patients screened, 116 met criteria that included the ability to participate in motor and functional evaluation on admission to acute rehabilitation, and the absence of other neurologic disorders or fractures that affect one's ability to ambulate. Intervention Inpatient rehabilitation on a specialized TBI unit by an interdisciplinary team. Main outcome measures Recovery of independent ambulation and time to recover independent ambulation. Results Of eligible patients, 73.3% achieved independent ambulation by latest follow-up (up to 5.1mo). Patients who achieved independent ambulation were significantly younger ( P P P =.058)—than those who did not ambulate independently. There were no differences in recovery based on neuropathologic profile. Mean time to independent ambulation ± standard deviation was 5.7±4.3 weeks; of those achieving independent ambulation, 82.4% did so by 2 months and 94.1% by 3 months. If not independent by 3 months postinjury, patients had a 13.9% chance of recovery. Multivariate regression analysis generated prediction models for time to independent ambulation, using admission FIM instrument scores and age (38% of variance); initial gait score, loss of consciousness, and age (40% of variance); or initial gait score and PTA (58% of variance), when restricted to just those patients with diffuse axonal injury. Conclusions Most patients with severe TBI achieved independent ambulation; the vast majority did so within 3 months postinjury. Functional measures, injury severity measures, and age can help guide prognosis and expectations for time to recover.
Oral hairy leukoplakia.

. Oral hairy leukoplakia, usually observed on the lateral border of the tongue, may herald the development of symptomatic human immunodeficiency virus infection. This paper reviews the pertinent clinical features and differential diagnosis, histology, methods of establishing a definitive diagnosis, and management of the patient with this Epstein-Barr virus-associated lesion.
Sampled data updating of continuous-time observers

The theory of continuous-time observers for linear, time-invariant systems driven by sampled data is developed with results which are applicable to the many practical systems which utilize digital data collection.
The early thermal history of the earth

The early thermal history of the Earth is reconsidered with the constraint that core formation occur before the emplacement of the oldest known rock possessing remanent magnetism. The thermal consequences of core formation are such that it must antedate the oldest known surface rock. Arbitrary accretion models are constructed and radioactive abundances are assumed to effect this condition. For all cases, the Earth must accrete in a period of 500 000 years or less (4.5 billion years ago) to fulfill this constraint. Partial melting of silicates upon accretion is implied; core formation and large-scale differentiation of the Earth at that time are a distinct possibility. Several lines of evidence invalidate the chondritic abundances and the terrestrial abundances, calibrated on the basis of present-day heat flow values, as applicable to a homogeneous Earth. These values of U, Th, and K are probably too high. Thermal history models using recent determinations of U, Th, and K from oceanic lherzolites and evidence from continental heat flow imply that the Earth accreted in 200 000 years or less and that large-scale differentiation of the Earth upon accretion seems most likely. The above conclusion vindicates the hot origin hypothesis. One consequence is early enrichment of the radioactive elements in the outer regions of the Earth. The temperatures in the deep interior of the Earth reflect residual accretional energy, including that of core formation, and are not primarily a result of radioactive heating. A Mars model, with the same accretion rate and composition as the Earth model, is colder and undifferentiated due to its smaller mass. Venus is considered to have overall composition and gross thermal history similar to the Earth's.
Selection of monoclonal antibodies against 6-oxo-M(1)dG and their use in an LC-MS/MS assay for the presence of 6-oxo-M(1)dG in vivo.

Oxidative stress triggers DNA and lipid peroxidation, leading to the formation of electrophiles that react with DNA to form adducts. A product of this pathway, (3-(2′-deoxy-β-d-erythro-pentofuranosyl)-pyrimido[1,2-α]purine-10(3H)-one), or M1dG, is mutagenic in bacterial and mammalian cells and is repaired by the nucleotide excision repair pathway. In vivo, M1dG is oxidized to a primary metabolite, (3-(2-deoxy-β-d-erythro-pentofuranosyl)-pyrimido[1,2-α]purine-6,10(3H,5H)-dione, or 6-oxo-M1dG, which is excreted in urine, bile, and feces. We have developed a specific monoclonal antibody against 6-oxo-M1dG and have incorporated this antibody into a procedure for the immunoaffinity isolation of 6-oxo-M1dG from biological matrices. The purified analyte is quantified by LC-MS/MS using a stable isotope-labeled analogue ([15N5]-6-oxo-M1dG) as an internal standard. Healthy male Sprague–Dawley rats excreted 6-oxo-M1dG at a rate of 350–1893 fmol/kg·d in feces. This is the first report of the presence of the major met...
Improved oviposition and egg collection system for the fall armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

An efficient oviposition and egg collection system was developed for the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith), using a large cage with built-in features for moth emergence, feeding, and Oviposotion, and removal of spent and dead moths. The cage is operated continuously as pupae are added daily. Females oviposit on wax paper sheets easiy removed from and replaced within the cage. Beer, as an adult food source, is added dally to easily accessible feeding stations within the cage. Spent and dead moths are removed through a trap door in the cage bottom. Cage design, fabrication materials, construction, and servicing are discussed. A system to remove moth scales from the facility housing the adult colony also is described.
Plasma Gas Composition and Pressure Effects on the Sintering of Stabilized Zirconia

Yttria stabilized zirconia powder compacts were rapidly sintered in rf plasmas. Final sintered densities varied with plasma gas composition and plasma pressure. The final densities obtained at low pressures were comparable to those obtained at high pressures. This fact can be explained by plasma chemical effects which enhanced sintering at low pressures. Specimen exposure time in the plasma has a minor effect on the final sintered density. The experimental results demonstrates that the powder processing history has a strong influence on the sintering process. Sintered densities exceeding 97% of the theoretical value were obtained in less than 5 minutes in mixed plasmas. X-ray analysis of the sintered specimens shows the formation of single phased cubic solid solutions. SEM analysis of the high density samples shows uniformly fine-grained microstructures with some isolated intragranular micropores. Low density specimens show large open pores along the grain boundaries and at the triple points indicating sintering stops at an early stage.
A Numerical Static Friction Model for Spherical Contacts of Rough Surfaces, Influence of Load, Material, and Roughness

The relative motion between two surfaces under a normal load is impeded by friction. Interfacial junctions are formed between surfaces of asperities, and sliding inception occurs when shear tractions in the entire contact area reach the shear strength of the weaker material and junctions are about to be separated. Such a process is known as a static friction mechanism. The numerical contact model of dissimilar materials developed by the authors is extended to evaluate the maximum tangential force (in terms of the static friction coefficient) that can be sustained by a rough surface contact. This model is based on the Boussinesq-Cerruti integral equations, which relate surface tractions to displacements. The materials are assumed to respond elastic perfectly plastically for simplicity, and the localized hardness and shear strength are set as the upper limits of contact pressure and shear traction, respectively. Comparisons of the numerical analysis results with published experimental data provide a validation of this model. Static friction coefficients are predicted for various material pairs in contact first, and then the behaviors of static friction involving rough surfaces are extensively investigated.
Spectral reflectance of healthy and diseased watermelon leaves

SUMMARY Significant differences in reflectances were found between healthy and diseased watermelon leaves in the 500–640 nm visible region and 740–900 nm near infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Spectrophotometric reflectance measurements were made to determine differences between healthy and diseased watermelon (Citrullus vulgaris) leaves over the 500–2700 nm wave length interval. Plants with Fusarium wilt, downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora), and watermelon mosaic were observed during the growing season. Early symptoms of the diseases had significantly greater reflectance values than the advanced stages of the diseases. A ratio of two wavelength bands, 500–640 nm and 660–900 nm gave an accurate index for determining stages of disease, both early and advanced. There were greater differences in reflectance between all three diseases and healthy leaves in both early and advanced stages in the 900–1400 nm, 1500–1900 nm, and 2000–2400 nm middle infra-red wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum than in the visible 450–740 nm range. All three diseases had significant differences in the 700–900 nm near-infra-red range.
Factors affecting solubility and penetration of clarithromycin through gastric mucus

Background: Factors influencing the pharmacokinetics of clarithromycin in gastric mucus are poorly defined. Aim: To determine: (i) whether the clinical formulation of clarithromycin (Biaxin granules and powdered Biaxin tablets) affects the water solvency of the antibiotic or changes the barrier properties of pig gastric mucus (PGM), thereby influencing the penetration of clarithromycin through the gastric mucus layer; and (ii) whether topically active anti-ulcer agents affect clarithromycin penetration through gastric mucus. Methods: Solubility of clarithromycin in aqueous solution was studied at pH 7. PGM viscosities were determined using a falling ball microviscometer. Permeability of clarithromycin through PGM with and without added anti-ulcer drugs at pH 7 was monitored using a microfiltration device and an agar diffusion bioassay. Results: Clarithromycin showed the poorest solubility at pH 7, whereas both Biaxin formulations demonstrated identical solubility of their antibiotic ingredient. Clarithromycin and both Biaxin formulations markedly increased mucin viscosity over the pH range 2–7. PGM markedly retarded the penetration of clarithromycin: unformulated clarithromycin and Biaxin tablets penetrated more rapidly through mucus than Biaxin granules. Pre-treatment of PGM with aluminium-magnesium-containing antacids (Riopan and Talcid preparations) decreased the rate of clarithromycin penetration, whereas Carafate and Peptobismol had no significant effect on mucus penetration of clarithromycin. Conclusions: The availability of clarithromycin in gastric mucus is significantly influenced by its clinical formulation, which affects its solubility as well as the viscous properties of mucus. Pulverized Biaxin tablets provide better local distribution of clarithromycin in mucus than Biaxin granules. Pre-treatment of mucus with anti-ulcer medications does not increase the penetration of clarithromycin through mucus.
The CCU nurse has a pacemaker.

It had been a restful and uneventful week of vacation. The bothersome dizzy spells, which had plagued me off and on for three years, had been fewer. Maybe they were due to tension and tiredness as the doctor had told me. Then, what were all these people doing standing around my bed staring at me? What were the frightening and strange sounds that kept coming and going? I was having a nightmare, from which I would soon awaken.
Sex roles and chivalry: Some conditions of gratitude to altruism

In a quasi-field experiment 479 subjects (beneficiaries) were observed as experimenters (benefactors) performed an altruistic act for them. Their responses were classified mainly into shows of gratitude, such as saying “Thank you.” Such amenities are expected in a traditional model of courtly chivalry, i.e., the door-opening ceremony. Experimenters were randomly assigned in a three-factor design, setting × sex of experimenter × sex of subject, with approximately 60 subjects per cell. The town-gown setting (university vs. community library) unexpectedly produced no difference. Traditional pairs (i.e., male benefactors and female beneficiaries) elicited most thanks. Estimated physical attractiveness of subject interacted strikingly with sex in affecting level of thanks shown. Most thankful were plain female beneficiaries for whom male benefactors held doors open. Overall, the data conformed best with a traditional model but also hinted at anomie (tradition in transition).
Human-machine interface issues in the use of helmet-mounted displays in short conjugate simulators

With the introduction of helmet-mounted displays (HMD) into modern aircraft, there is a desire on the part of pilot trainees to achieve a "look and feel" for the simulation environment similar to the real flight hardware. Given this requirement for high fidelity, it may be necessary to configure - or to perhaps re-configure - the HMD for a short conjugate viewing distance and to do so without causing eye strain or other adverse physiological effects. This paper will survey the human factors literature and provide an analysis on the visual construct issues of focus and vergence which - if not properly configured for the short conjugate simulator - could cause adverse effects, which can negatively affect training.
Limit-periodic Schrödinger operators on Zd: Uniform localization

Abstract We exhibit d -dimensional limit-periodic Schrodinger operators that are uniformly localized in the strongest sense possible. That is, for each of these operators, there is a uniform exponential decay rate such that every element of the hull of the corresponding Schrodinger operator has a complete set of eigenvectors that decay exponentially off their centers of localization at least as fast as prescribed by the uniform decay rate. Consequently, these operators exhibit uniform dynamical localization.
Continuing Challenges to Delivering Integrated Wealth Management Services to Business Owners

The author addresses a segment of the wealth management market which he believes is not yet served adequately: business owners. He points to the fact that these potential clients are facing a number of unique challenges surrounding management of their overall balance sheet through time. Though attempts have been made to serve that segment, the author believes that discourse about the problem has become hostage to a paradigm that needs reforming of its most basic terms. This article starts by examining the basic concept of wealth management in order to develop a common vocabulary around the range and depth of services involved. It then revisits the business owner client as a set of interacting subsystems, each with its own developmental needs and trajectories, with a view to describing the range of needs presented by this client type and suggesting what is possible to offer to the client with respect to service mixes. Third, and finally, it turns to the problem of how to organize and deliver these services and the associated management change challenges.
The POU transcription factor UNC-86 controls the timing and ventral guidance of Caenorhabditis elegans axon growth.

The in vivo mechanisms that coordinate the timing of axon growth and guidance are not well understood. In the Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodite specific neurons (HSNs), the lin-4 microRNA controls the stage of axon initiation independent of the UNC-40 and SAX-3 ventral guidance receptors. lin-4 loss-of-function mutants exhibit marked delays in axon outgrowth, while lin-4 overexpression leads to precocious growth in the L3 larval stage. Here, we show that loss of the POU transcription factor UNC-86 not only results in penetrant ventral axon growth defects in in the HSNs, but also causes processes to extend in the L1, three stages earlier than wild-type. This temporal shift is not dependent on UNC-40 or SAX-3, and does not require the presence of lin-4. We propose that unc-86(lf) HSN axons are misguided due to the temporal decoupling of axon initiation and ventral guidance responses. Developmental Dynamics 240:1815–1825, 2011. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Administrative Compensation and Organizational Performance in Texas Nursing Facilities

This study examines the link between compensation and performance by comparing profit-seeking versus nonprofit nursing homes in Texas. Using both cost and profit functions to measure facility performance, that is, resource allocation efficiency by firm management, we find that: (1) the highest paid administrators (profit-seekers) are also the most efficient allocators of firm resources; (2) rural administrators are paid more than their urban counterparts but there is no significant difference in their overall ability to allocate resources; and (3) chain administrators are not compensated more than independent administrators yet are significantly superior in resource allocation. Further, management compensation is strongly influenced by firm size and capacity utilization. These results provide very weak support for the agency theorist's pay/performance paradigm.
Why the Intellect Cannot Have a Bodily Organ: De Anima 3.4

Abstract I reconstruct Aristotle’s reasons for thinking that the intellect cannot have a bodily organ. I present Aristotle’s account of the ‘aboutness’ or intentionality of cognitive states, both perceptual and intellectual. On my interpretation, Aristotle’s account is based around the notion of cognitive powers taking on forms in a special preservative way. Based on this account, Aristotle argues that no physical structure could enable a bodily part or combination of bodily parts to produce or determine the full range of forms that the human intellect can understand. For Aristotle, cognitive powers with bodily organs are always spatio-temporally limited, but the understanding is not. Aristotle claims that our understanding applies to all instances of the thing understood wherever and whenever they exist. On Aristotle’s own account the intellect in its nature is only ‘potential’, it does not actually possess any form. Thus nothing prevents it from possessing all forms.
Could BRAF Mutations in Melanocytic Lesions Arise from DNA Damage Induced by Ultraviolet Radiation

Although BRAF V600 mutations in melanocytic tumors are not UV-signature mutations, it is plausible that they could still arise from error-prone replication of UV-damaged DNA. We propose a mechanism for their origin, taking into consideration melanocytic-specific BRAF tandem mutations, nearby potential pyrimidine dimer sites, the properties of specialized DNA polymerases, and biological selection.
Isomerization of 1,2-diiodoethylene in a laser-induced chemical reaction of I2 + C2H2

Abstract A laser-induced chemical reaction of I 2 + C 2 H 2 has been studied and the formation of cis and tians isomers of 1,2-diiodoethylene has been observed. The ratio of the two isomers of 1,2-diodoethylene changes markedly upon changing the laser wavelengths of excitation of the I 2 molecule
Exploring the Positive Punishment Effect Among Incarcerated Adult Offenders

The vast majority of offenders released from prison will re-offend, about two-thirds will be re-arrested with three years, most current prison inmates have prior prison experience, and many repeat offenders are devoted to what has been termed a criminal lifestyle. Findings from a survey of over 700 incarcerated adult offenders explore the effect of different measures of past punishment on inmates’ perceptions of the certainty and severity of future sanctions, and self-reported likelihood of re-offending after release. Results are mixed, with measures of current imprisonment being associated with a deterrent effect, while measures of past imprisonment (juvenile and adult) and experience with alternative sanctions being associated with a criminogenic effect. Recognizing that the data are not longitudinal and contain no measures of actual re-offending, the implied positive punishment effect is explained by applying social learning dynamics and insights from ethnographic studies. Specifically, a) non-social reinforcers-particularly affective costs and benefits experienced through offending, b) association with criminal reference groups in and out of prison, and c) a lack of legitimate, reintegrative opportunities upon reentry all serve to promote re-offending. Findings have implications for the study of offender decision-making processes, and speak to the efficacy of imprisonment as a deterrent to crime.
On the parametric excitation of plasma modes at upper hybrid resonance

Abstract The conditions for the upper hybrid modes to be excited parametrically by an intense electromagnetic wave near its cut-off have been examined. They show that upper hybrid side-bands can easily be produced in the ionosphere by an obliquely incident wave of ordinary but not extraordinary polarization.
Feedlot performance and carcass evaluation of heifers fed finishing diets as weanling calves or as yearlings.

Twenty commercial Herefored, Angus and Hereford × Angus, weanling and yearling heifers from the same herd were compared for feedlot performance and certain carcass characteristics. Yearlings tended to gain weight more rapidly than did weanlings. Since the cattle were group-fed, no analyses of feed efficiency could be performed. Yearlings appeared, however, to require less feed per unit of gain. The cattle were slaughtered when live weight approached 443 kg. Weanlings were fatter; had more kidney, pelvic and heart fat; merited higher (less desirable) USDA yield grades; had more desirable USDA quality grades and higher dressing percentage (P<0·05) than did yearlings. Ribeye area was not different between treatments. Yearlings yielded a higher percentage of closely trimmed retail lean cuts than did weanlings (P < 0·05). Sensory panel scores were higher (more desirable) for weanlings than for yearlings for both ribeye and inside round steaks (P < 0·05), while no differences were identified for flavor, juiciness or overall palatability of steaks. Warner-Bratzler shear force data generally supported taste panel evaluations for tenderness. These data suggest that carcass composition is impacted by the way cattle are managed and refute the idea that cattle have the same body composition at a given weight regardless of age at slaughter or nutrient density of the diet during finishing.
Experimental studies of carcinogenesis of the uterine cervix in mice.

Abstract In conclusion, the histogenesis of cervical carcinomas induced in mice by coaltar hydrocarbons or inactivated herpes simplex virus, types 1 and 2, has been described. The lesions antedating the development of squamous cell carcinoma were similar to lesions encountered in patients with the same keratinizing type of carcinoma of the ectocervix. A theory for the development of the three grades of human cervical squamous cell carcinoma has been presented based on experimental and clinical data which demonstrate that each of the three grades of cancer consists of cells which resemble those of the tissue of origin and of the antecedent noninvasive lesion.
Exact Inference for Continuous Time Markov Chain Models

Methods for exact Bayesian inference under a uniform diffuse prior are set forth for the continuous time homogeneous Markov chain model. It is shown how the exact posterior distribution of any function of interest may be computed using Monte Carlo integration. The solution handles the problems of embeddability in a very natural way, and provides (to our knowledge) the only solution that systematically takes this problem into account. The methods are illustrated using several sets of data.
Electrocardiography and Doppler echocardiography in secondary (AA) amyloidosis

The fibrils in AL and AA amyloidosis, although similar in appearance, have different biochemical composition and staining characteristics. Whereas electrocardiographic and echocardiographic features of heart involvement in AA amyloidosis resemble those for AL amyloidosis, our findings support the concept that the constituent amyloid fibrils may play a decisive role in the clinical pattern and significance of heart infiltration.
Isolation of a cytochrome P450 homologue preferentially expressed in developing inflorescences of Zea mays

Four cDNA clones exhibiting preferential hybridization to transcripts present in developing maize tassels were isolated by differential screening. One of these cDNA clones hybridizes to transcripts detectable only in the shoot apex. The abundance of this transcript is significantly higher in developing inflorescence apices than in vegetative apices. DNA sequence analysis of a 2107 nucleotide cDNA clone corresponding to this transcript revealed that the transcript encodes a polypeptide of 547 amino acids, with a molecular mass of 58.4 kDa. This polypeptide shares significant sequence similarity with members of the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase gene superfamily, including the conserved C-terminal domains typical of the cytochrome P450 monooxygenases.
Evaluation of Myo-Inositol as a Potential Biomarker for Depression in Schizophrenia

Depression is highly prevalent in patients with schizophrenia and is associated with significant clinical consequences, but there is no known biomarker for depression in schizophrenia. One of the putative neurochemical biomarkers for depression in major depressive disorder (MDD) is reduced cerebral concentration of myo-Inositol. We examined whether myo-Inositol levels provide a potential marker for depressive symptoms in schizophrenia similar to that in MDD and are informative regarding causal biological pathways underlying both depression and schizophrenia. We used proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy to examine myo-Inositol levels in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in 59 schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) patients and 69 matched community comparison participants. Participants completed the Maryland Trait and State Depression (MTSD) scale to measure symptoms of depression experienced around time of assessment ('State' subscale) and longitudinally ('Trait' subscale). Myo-Inositol in the ACC was negatively correlated with MTSD-Trait scores in both patients (ρ=-0.336, p=0.009) and community comparison samples (ρ=-0.328, p=0.006). Furthermore, patients with a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder or a history of at least one major depressive episode had lower levels of myo-Inositol compared with schizophrenia patients without a current or past affective diagnosis (p=0.012). Since reduced brain myo-Inositol is associated with MDD, myo-Inositol may be a biochemical marker of depressive mood symptoms across diagnostic boundaries. If confirmed, this finding may aid investigation of the pathophysiology and therapeutics of depression common between depression, schizophrenia and other psychiatric diagnoses.
Lipophilic aldehydes and related carbonyl compounds in rat and human urine.

Rat and human urine samples were analyzed for lipophilic aldehydes and other carbonyl products of lipid peroxidation. The following compounds were identified as their 2,4-dinitrophenyl hydrazones by cochromatography with pure standards using three solvent systems: butanal, butan-2-one, pentan-2-one, hex-2-enal, hexanal, hepta-2,4-dienal, hept-2-enal, octanal, non-2-enal, deca-2,4-dienal, 4-hydroxyhex-2-enal, and 4-hydroxynon-2-enal. In general, fasted rats excreted less of these compounds than fed rats, indicating they were partially of dietary origin or that the endogenous compounds were excreted in a form not susceptible to hydrazone formation. The compounds excreted in human urine were similar to those excreted in rat urine but were present in lower concentrations. Identification of the conjugated forms fo the lipophilic aldehydes and related carbonyl compounds excreted in urine may be a source of information about their reactions in vivo.
Decision making in the pathway from genes to psychiatric and substance use disorders.

In influencing risk for psychiatric and substance use disorders, genes are typically conceptualized as working in silent physiological pathways in the bowels of our biology, far from the influences of human desires. I here argue that this model of gene action is too restricted. At the individual, family and societal level, humans can, through their decision-making capacity, intervene in causal pathways from genes to behavior. At the individual level, I present four paradigmatic cases involving alcohol dependence, major depression, general externalizing behaviors and animal phobia showing how human decisions can inhibit the expression of risk genes. I review the literatures demonstrating that parental behaviors can suppress or augment the heritability of traits in their children, and social attitudes can alter and even create causal pathways from genes to phenotypes. We evolved from organisms whose nervous systems were networks of reflexes that then developed simple cognitive systems and finally self-reflection. Just as our cognitions have gone ‘meta,’ we are now nearing a time when we can go ‘meta’ about our genetic risk. For many psychiatric disorders, our risk genes are not entirely cordoned off in our silent, purposeless biological substrate. Rather, we are able to make decisions that impact on the expression of our own genomes, those of our loved ones and those of our friends and neighbors. Our actions and our genes are often weaved together, integrated into the fabric of our lives.