cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Time-intensity trading functions for selected pure tones.

A substantial number of investigations have examined the ability of the auditory system to trade time for intensity on a lateralization task. Most of these investigations, however, have employed cl...
High performance PET fibre properties achieved at high speed using a combination of threadline modification and traditional post treatment

Abstract A process was investigated for producing high modulus, high strength, dimensionally stable poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) filament by combination of threadline modification and post drawing techniques. Unlike traditional commercial processes for the production of PET filament yarn, the present process uses a liquid isothermal bath to develop an extremely high level of tension in the threadline. This results in extremely high amorphous orientation and low crystallinity in the as-spun fibres, with good mechanical properties, similar to those found in products produced using a commercial spin-draw process. The oriented amorphous structure produced directly by such a modified spinning process can be further oriented by a subsequent hot-drawing operation, resulting in a final PET filament product which possesses ultra-high birefringence ( Δn > 0.23) and excellent mechanical properties. The tenacity, elongation, and initial modulus ( T/E/M ) are, respectively, in the range of 9.5–10.7 g d −1 , 6–9%, and 130–150 g d −1 . Experimental filaments also exhibit excellent resistance to yielding within the range of small strain, with tensile stress values as high as 5–7 g d −1 being observed at 5% elongation. This superior balance of properties, high modulus, high tenacity and high dimensional stability, is unprecedented in conventional commercial processes for the production of PET filament.
Motor neuron regeneration accuracy: Balancing trophic influences between pathways and end-organs

The key to recovery of function following peripheral nerve lesions is guiding axons back to their original target end-organs. The parent femoral nerve splits into two comparable terminal pathways: one to the muscle and the other to the skin. Normally, motor neurons only innervate the pathway to the muscle, but after the parent nerve is repaired regenerating motor neurons are often misrouted to the skin. When the muscle and skin pathways remain connected to their respective targets after the parent nerve is repaired, reinnervation favors the muscle pathway. If contact with the muscle is instead prevented, reinnervation favors the pathway to the skin. Here we examine whether shortening the skin pathway can alter motor reinnervation accuracy when the muscle pathway remains connected to the muscle. We demonstrate that reducing the influence of the skin pathway results in a more rapid and extensive reinnervation of the muscle pathway. These findings suggest that the relative balance of trophic influences from the pathways and their end-organs is an important determinant of motor neuron regeneration accuracy, and that the muscle pathway by itself is not the primary regulator for regeneration accuracy of motor neurons.
Decision-making differences between big six and non-big six auditing firms: the implications for the internal audit function

Internal auditors have a direct interest in understanding how external audit firms make decisions that may have important implications for their own firm. Explores whether differently sized audit firms apply professional standards in a similar manner. Such uniform application should be expected given that all auditors should be guided by professional standards in making the qualification decision. The micro‐economic environments facing big six and non‐big six firms differ. Investigates whether big six and non‐big six firms use the same information in deciding whether to issue a going concern modification. This study found that differently sized auditing firms did not apply the standards in a similar manner and did not use information available similarly. Internal audit audiences should find this lack of uniform application of interest since the internal audit function may be called in to contribute information to the decision‐making process involved in selecting a new auditing firm. Also, the internal audit function may be involved in selecting acquisition targets for the firm. Should there be a suspicion of going concern problems involving a potential acquisition, the information provided in this paper should be useful to the internal audit function in evaluating the presence or lack of a going concern modification with respect to the potential acquisition’s financial statements.
Use of non-pharmacological therapies among patients with osteoarthritis

Background and aims: Non-pharmacological therapies are an important component of treatment for osteoarthritis (OA), but they may be under-used. This study examined the prevalence of self-reported use of common non-pharmacological therapies, as well as patient and physician-related predictors of use. Methods: Subjects included 205 veterans who completed a survey regarding OA symptoms and treatments. Analyses examined the prevalence of use of three specific non-pharmacological therapies: exercise, physical therapy (PT), and dietary/herbal supplements. We also examined whether patient variables (demographics, clinical characteristics, and perceived helpfulness of non-pharmacological therapies) and physician characteristics (age, gender, race, and recommendation of non-pharmacological therapies) were associated with use of each therapy. Results: Forty-six percent of subjects reported current use of exercise, 11% reported using PT, and 12%, dietary/herbal supplements. Patient demographic and clinical characteristics were generally poor predictors of use of non-pharmacological therapy. However, females were more likely to report exercising than males (p<0.05), and patients with greater disease severity were more likely to report current use of PT (p<0.001). Patients’ perceived helpfulness of each therapy significantly predicted use (p<0.05). Physician demographic characteristics were not strong predictors of patients’ use of therapy, but physician recommendation for exercise and PT predicted patients’ use (p≤0.05). Conclusions: Among this sample of veterans with OA, there was relatively low use of exercise, PT, and dietary/herbal supplements. Patients’ perceptions of treatment helpfulness and physician recommendations strongly predicted use. These results signal the importance of interventions aimed at educating both patients and physicians about these therapies.
The long myosin light chain kinase is differentially phosphorylated during interphase and mitosis

We have shown previously that the activity of the long myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) is cell cycle regulated with a decrease in specific activity during mitosis that can be restored following treatment with alkaline phosphatase. To better understand the role and significance of phosphorylation in regulating MLCK function during mitosis, we examined the phosphorylation state of in vivo derived MLCK. Phosphoamino acid analysis and phosphopeptide mapping demonstrate that the long MLCK is differentially phosphorylated on serine residues during interphase and mitosis with the majority of the phosphorylation sites located within the N-terminal IgG domain. Biochemical assays show that Aurora B binds and phosphorylates the IgG domain of the long MLCK. In addition, phosphopeptide maps of the endogenous full-length MLCK from mitotic cells and in vitro phosphorylated IgG domain demonstrate that Aurora B phosphorylates the same sites as those observed in vivo. Altogether, these studies suggest that the long MLCK may be a cellular target for Aurora B during mitosis.
A Feminist Approach to Practice in Working With Midlife and Older Women With HIV/AIDS

Older women with HIV/AIDS constitute an invisible population that is often ignored by organizers of HIV prevention efforts as well as by HIV and aging organizations. This article explores the importance of a feminist approach to practice with a population affected by the intersection of ageism, sexism, and AIDS phobia. A support group for midlife and older women with HIV/AIDS is described, and four themes that were identified by the group participants are discussed. AIDS service organizations, the aging network, and policy makers must begin to recognize the critical need to support and assist older women with HIV/AIDS.
Maternal responsiveness during pregnancy in the hamster (Mesocricetus auratus)

Abstract We tested different groups of pregnant hamsters ( Mesocricetus auratus ) twice daily for their maternal behaviour. Beginning on Days 1, 6, 12, 13, 14, or 15, we presented the hamsters with either one pup placed outside of the nest or three pups placed directly into the nest. As a control for the effects of pregnancy, virgin groups were also tested under each condition. The animals were observed for licking, crouching and retrieving of the 1–2 day old pups. The results showed that maternal responsiveness develops during the final 1–2 days of pregnancy and that the varied test conditions determine more precisely the level and timing of the increased responsiveness to pups. The data are discussed in terms of the interaction between endogenous factors and test conditions, and also in terms of possible hormonal contributions to the onset of maternal behaviour.
Review Article : Class and Exploitation: Description and Ethics. Notes on John Roemer's A General Theory of Exploitation and Class

John Roemer's book A General Theory of Exploitation and Class is a novel and controversial contribution to the Marxian theory of exploitation and class. In this paper I give a synopsis of the conclusions obtained by Roemer. I discuss the methodological status of his framework focusing on his use of assumptions and of general equilibrium models, and I discuss the extent to which his framework may be useful in empirical research on class.
Black identity: The O. J. Simpson case

The purpose of this paper is to review the White and Black perspectives regarding the O.J. Simpson trial. The hermeneutic-dialectic (HD) method of inquiry will be utilized in order to comprehens how Whites and Blacks reached their respective conclusions concerning O. J. Simpson's guilt or innocence. This method of inquiry employs discourses, separately by Blacks and Whites, the interchange of the recorded discourses, and last, the coming together of both groups of participants for further discourse. Blacks, in contrast to Whites, experienced justice through a common sense of identity forged historically by a minority people rather than by the immediate circumstantial evidence gathered at the time of the trial.
Spectrophotometric Standards from the Far-Ultraviolet to the Near-Infrared: STIS and NICMOS Fluxes

With photometric repeatability in the 0.2%–0.4% range and wavelength coverage from 1150 to 10,200 A, the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS) low-dispersion spectrophotometry provides excellent absolute flux standards. STIS observations of 19 stars are used to update the database of Hubble Space Telescope standard stars with absolute fluxes that are based on the white dwarf pure hydrogen scale. Uncertainties in the STIS absolute flux calibration range from 4% in the far-UV to 2% at longer wavelengths. The relative and absolute fluxes of our composite standards in the IR are verified by the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrograph (NICMOS) observations and by ground-based IR photometry.
A random measure model for the emission of pollutants by vehicles on a highway

Abstract Consider a collection of vehicles on a highway. The velocity process of the k th vehicle is a Markov process with continuous paths independent of the velocity processes of the other vehicles but with the same probability law. The discharge of pollutants by the k th vehicle is described by a nondecreasing right continuous process whose probability law depends on the path of the vehicle in such a way that the discharge process has independent increments given the velocity process of the vehicle. The limiting behavior of the total amount of pollutants discharged in an interval of the highway by time t by all the vehicles is studied as t → ∞.
The CISG's Expansion Bias: A Comment on Franco Ferrari

Abstract Commentators frequently urge the production of uniform commercial law and judge the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) a successful effort at producing a uniform sales law. Franco Ferrari's paper makes two claims: (1) that the CISG is a “success” when its scope is properly understood; and (2) that properly understanding the CISG's scope requires recognizing its limited application and therefore the continuing need to resort to non-CISG law. My evaluation of the CISG is less favorable than Ferrari's. I identify an “expansion bias” in the CISG’ s interpretation that might operate generally: the tendency among courts, arbitral tribunals and commentators to apply the CISG to transactions or aspects of transactions not clearly within its scope by relying on a ill-defined and questionable presumption of coverage. Even if uniform sale law is desirable, this expansion bias suggests that the CISG may be less successful in optimally promoting it.
Exploring the land: a comparison of land-use patterns in the Middle and Upper Paleolithic of the western Mediterranean

By examining the patterning of artifacts across a physical landscape, prehistoric behavior regarding choice in land-use can be delineated. Using survey data from three valleys in eastern Spain, the Polop Alto, the Penaguila, and the Alcala, we evaluate patterns in land-use for the Middle and Upper Paleolithic. Significant differences between the two time periods would support the idea that the transition from the Middle to the Upper Paleolithic coincided with changes in land-use. Geographic variables, including slope, aspect, and elevation of occupied portions of the landscape are used to determine land-use patterning; lithic analysis is also used to determine the extent of mobility and artifact curation, behaviors that are closely tied to land-use. Results indicate that occupation of the valleys of Mediterranean Spain was spatially patterned in relation to topography. A significant difference exists between intensively occupied and moderately occupied areas within time periods. However, there is little evidence for a difference in land-use between the Middle and Upper Paleolithic for any of the three valleys.
Experimental Investigation of Input Device Suitability for CAD Operations

This paper presents an experimental investigation into input suitability for human-computer interaction during computer aided design operations. Specifically, three types of operations, synthesis, interrogation, and modification, are examined with respect to three different types of user interfaces, mouse, direct tablet, and indirect tablet. The study, using undergraduate student participants in an introductory engineering graphics course, demonstrates that the mouse performs the highest across the dimensions of completion time and number of errors. However, the direct tablet, using a pen like device directly on the visualization screen, shows promise.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Soluble interleukin-2 receptor in hemophagocytic histiocytoses: searching for markers of disease activity.

(1989). Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor in Hemophagocytic Histiocytoses: Searching for Markers of Disease Activity. Pediatric Hematology and Oncology: Vol. 6, No. 3, pp. 253-264.
The death of “dying and rising gods” in the biblical world: An update, with special reference to Baal in the Baal cycle

Abstract This essay examines the background and current status of the question of the category of “dying and rising gods” in biblical and ancient Middle Eastern research. A survey of the data confirms many older objections raised against the category, all the while recognizing the concern for fertility represented by many of the figures subsumed under the category. Baal of Ugarit provides an important test case for this category, as new ritual information in the form of KTU 1.161 (RS 34.126) shows clear correspondences with language and imagery associated with Baal's death in the Baal Cycle. The correspondences demonstrate not a ritual background to Baal's death and return to life in the cycle, but a literary borrowing of such language from the cult of deceased kings and ancestors.
Possible Effects of Moss on Distribution and Performance of a Threatened Endemic Primrose

ARSTRACT. Mosses may compete with vascular plants for limited soil resources, facilitate vascular plants by buffering extremes in abiotic conditions, and potentially trap seeds and provide safe sites for germination and establishment. We conducted a field study to investigate the effects of moss on the distribution and performance of Primula cusickiana var. maguirei, a threatened endemic perennial forb that occurs in an extremely narrow range within a single canyon in northern Utah, USA. Within the study population, we found that primroses occurred far more often on moss patches than on other substrates and that primroses occurring on moss patches had increased basal area and flower production. Furthermore, analyses revealed that soil under moss patches with primrose present had more organic matter, elevated magnesium concentrations, and lower Ca:Mg ratios. Our results suggest at least 3 hypotheses that may be evaluated through future studies. First, moss may facilitate P. cusickiana var. maguirei via the...
Functional status of men with the fragile X premutation, with and without the tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS)

Background Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), which occurs in some premutation carriers of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene, is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by action tremor, gait ataxia, and impaired executive cognitive functioning. Objective To evaluate the nature and severity of functional limitations among male carriers of the fragile X premutation, both with and without FXTAS. Methods Forty-two subjects with FXTAS and 24 asymptomatic premutation carriers were compared to 32 control subjects on measures of physical functioning, activities of daily living (ADLs; e.g. eating, bathing), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs; e.g. shopping, managing medications). Ordinary least squares regression, controlling for age, education, medical comorbidity, and pain, was used to examine group differences in physical and functional performance. Results Men with FXTAS performed significantly worse than control subjects on all dependent measures, showing greater limitations in physical functioning, as well as ADL and IADL performance (p < 0.05). Subsequent analyses suggested that physical and functional impairments among men with FXTAS result largely from deficits in motor and executive functioning and that CGG repeat length is associated with functional impairment. Asymptomatic carriers of the fragile X premutation performed similarly to control subjects on all measures. Conclusions This study provides the first comprehensive evaluation of functional status among male premutation carriers. Although carriers without FXTAS performed similarly to control subjects, men with FXTAS showed evidence of significant physical and functional impairment, which appears to result largely from motor and executive deficits characteristic of the syndrome. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proof That the Bondi Mass is Positive

It is demonstrated that the total mass of a nontrivial isolated physical system is positive even after part of its mass has been lost because of gravitational radiation. This method is an extension of the one that the authors used in the proff of the classical positive-mass conjecture.
Who Makes Economic Policy in Africa and How

Abstract To understand the considerable detorioration in the economic policies of many African countries during the 1970s, it is essential to go beyond the economist's analytical models. The pressing drive of authoritarian rulers to survive adds an important dimension to economic policy choices. Although constrained to varying degrees by ethnic, regional and class loyalties among populations they govern, African rulers enjoy a measure of autonomy in making policy. They did not react speedily to the growing economic crisis during the early 1980s, however. Most reforms were undertaken under pressure and many policy efforts failed. Some countries managed to sustain reforms, but the important question is how to go beyond these idiosyncratic cases.
Total laparoscopic hysterectomy with and without lymph node dissection for uterine neoplasia

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To compare surgical outcomes of patients with uterine neoplasia undergoing total laparoscopic hysterectomy only (TLH) with those having TLH and lymph node dissection (TLHND) from September 5, 1996 through January 13, 2007.
Genotype-inspired laser material processing : a new experimental approach and potential applications to protean materials

We have developed a new direct-write experimental technique that enables the delivery of preprogrammed laser pulse scripts to a substrate with high fidelity during patterning and motion sequences. The laser technique can be readily applied to fundamental investigations of complex laser–material interaction phenomena, and easily integrated into laser–material processing schemes for commercial and industrial applications. The laser direct-write technique has been crafted by association with the genome and genotype concepts, where predetermined and prescribed laser pulse scripts are synchronously linked with the tool path geometry, and each concatenated pulse sequence is intended to express a specific material attribute. This laser processing method is particularly well suited for protean or mutable materials that can be altered with extreme sensitivity by the application of high precision photon exposures. We envision that multifunctional materials can be altered on a localized scale to create integrated “devices” on a common substrate. The synchronized laser pulse amplitude modulation scheme and application to a candidate photosensitive glass ceramic are the focus of this paper.
A sustainable building design using geosolar exergy storage technology (GEST)

Sustainability in the residential energy sector will be difficult if not impossible to achieve without the ability to retrofit millions of existing buildings with affordable energy savings means and/or alternate renewable sources. Geosolar exergy storage technology (GEST) is presented here as a suggested means for simultaneously increasing the energy efficiency of the existing home and utilizing the on-site renewable energy sources.
Studies on the substrate range of Clostridium kluyveri ; the use of propanol and succinate

The metabolism of Clostridium kluyveri has been extensively studied, but the range of substrates C. kluyveri can use for growth has not been fully explored. The use of propanol and succinate as growth substrates were established. C. kluyveri grows on acetate with propanol replacing ethanol. The principle carbon containing products were propionate, valerate, butyrate and hexanoate with traces of heptanoate. When grown with ethanol and succinate the principle carbon-containing products were acetate, butyrate and hexanoate. Hexanol was found as a product when incubated with ethanol and succinate 4-hydroxybutyrate or 3-butenoate. 5-Hexenoate was also a product of 3-butenoate and ethanol metabolism. The splitting of succinate into 2 acetates was indicated with ethanol providing the necessary reducing equivalents. Hydrogen was also found as a source of reducing equivalents but could not replace ethanol. A mechanism of succinate metabolism to acetate was proposed which accounts for growth yield, energetics considerations, carbon balances, production of side products and intermediates.
A procedure for the separation of glucosamine from glucosaminitol.

Abstract A simple procedure is described for the preparation of glucosamine and glucosaminitol, employing column chromatography on Sephadex G-10, using a borate-phosphate buffer as elutrient.
Up-conversion luminescence from simultaneously excited pairs of Tm3+ ions in CsMgCl3 crystals

Abstract Crystals of CsMgCl3 doped with Tm3+ exhibit a strikingly strong up-conversion luminescence when the 1G4(D) state is pumped under pulsed excitation at 465 nm. The most intense up-conversion emissions, which appear in the near-UV, originate from the 1I6(F) state at 34100 cm−1. Weaker features from the 1D2(E) state at 27700 cm−1 are also observed. At 11 K the 1I6 (F) and 1D2(E) emissions exhibit the rise and fall kinetics consistent with cross-relaxation from photoexcited pairs.
Professional Issues: The Fifth Amendment and Therapeutic Requirements to Admit Abuse

In several recent court cases, parents of children alleged to have been abused were ordered to undergo treatment or evaluation with a therapist who required that they admit to the abuse before ther...
Comparison of α-glucosyl hesperidin of citrus fruits and epigallocatechin gallate of green tea on the Loss of Rotavirus Infectivity in Cell Culture

• A number of secondary plant metabolites (e.g., flavonoids) possess antiviral/antimicrobial activity. Most flavonoids however, are difficult to study, as they are immiscible in water-based systems. The relatively new semisynthetic α-glucosyl hesperitin (GH), and the natural plant product epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) are unique among most flavonoids, as these flavonoids are highly soluble. The antiviral activity of these plant metabolites were investigated using the rotavirus as a model enteric virus system. Direct loss of virus structural integrity in cell-free suspension and titration of amplified RTV in host cell cultures was measured by a quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (qEIA). After 30 min. 100 X 103 µg/ml GH reduced RTV antigen levels by ca. 90%. The same compound reduced infectivity (replication in cell culture) by a similar order of magnitude 3 to 4 days post inoculation. After 3 days in culture, EGCG concentrations of 80, 160, and 320 µg/ml reduced RTV infectivity titer levels to ca. 50, 20, and 15% of the control, respectively. Loss of RTV infectivity titers occurred following viral treatment by parallel testing of both GH and EGCG, with the latter, markedly more effective. Cytotoxicity testing showed no adverse effects by the phenolic concentrations used in this study. The unique chemical structure of each flavonoid rather than each phenolic’s inherent solubility may be ascribed to those marked differences between each molecule’s antiviral (anti-RTV) effects. The solubility of EGCG and GH obviated our need to use potentially confounding or obfuscating carrier molecules (e.g., methanol, ethanol, DMSO) denoting our use of a pure system environ. Our work further denotes the need to address the unique chemical nature of secondary plant metabolites before any broad generalizations in flavonoid [antiviral] activity may be proposed.
A Simulator for Large-Scale Parallel Computer Architectures

Efficient design of hardware and software for large-scale parallel execution requires detailed understanding of the interactions between the application, computer, and network. The authors have developed a macro-scale simulator SST/macro that permits the coarse-grained study of distributed-memory applications. In the presented work, applications using the Message Passing Interface MPI are simulated; however, the simulator is designed to allow inclusion of other programming models. The simulator is driven from either a trace file or a skeleton application. Trace files can be either a standard format Open Trace Format or a more detailed custom format DUMPI. The simulator architecture is modular, allowing it to easily be extended with additional network models, trace file formats, and more detailed processor models. This paper describes the design of the simulator, provides performance results, and presents studies showing how application performance is affected by machine characteristics.
Fast polynomial factorization over high algebraic extensions of finite fields

New algorithms are presented for factoring polynomials of degree n over the finite field of q elements, where q is a power of a fixed prime number. When log q = n, where a > 0 is constant, these algorithms are asymptotically faster than previous known algorithms, the fastest of which required time Ω(n(log q)), or Ω(n) in this case, which corresponds to the cost of computing x modulo an n degree polynomial. The new algorithms factor an arbitrary polynomial in time O(n+n). All measures are in fixed precision operations, that is in bit complexity. Moreover, in the special case where all the irreducible factors have the same degree, the new algorithms run in time O(n). In particular, one may test a polynomial for irreducibility in O(n) bit operations. These results generalize to the case where q = p, where p is a small prime number relative to q.
Adverse events reported by postmenopausal women in controlled trials with raloxifene.

Abstract Objective: To assess the incidence of adverse events in postmenopausal women treated with raloxifene compared with placebo, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or unopposed estrogen. Methods: Common treatment groups were pooled across eight randomized, parallel clinical trials (6–30 months’ duration) of raloxifene to create the following three databases: placebo-controlled, HRT-controlled, and estrogen-controlled databases. Incidence and severity of all treatment-emergent adverse events, defined as events that first occurred or worsened during treatment, were compared among groups in each of the databases. Results: Discontinuation rates overall, and those related to adverse events, were not significantly different between treatment groups in any database. There was no significant difference in incidence of vaginal bleeding or breast discomfort between women treated with raloxifene (60 mg/d) or placebo. Both of these events were reported more frequently in women receiving HRT or estrogen. Vaginal bleeding was responsible for significantly more discontinuations from the HRT groups compared with the raloxifene group. Hot flashes was the only event common to all three databases that was significantly increased in the raloxifene group, but this event did not increase the discontinuation rates. The incidence of leg cramps was greater in raloxifene-treated women compared with placebo-treated women in the placebo-controlled database, but did not cause any discontinuations of therapy. Raloxifene had no effect on the incidence of vaginal symptoms or central nervous system events. Conclusion: Raloxifene had an adverse event profile distinct from HRT and unopposed estrogen and was well tolerated by postmenopausal women.
DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A MOUSE WITH PROFOUND BIOTINIDASE DEFICIENCY: A BIOTIN-RESPONSIVE NEUROCUTANEOUS DISORDER

Biotinidase deficiency is the primary enzymatic defect in biotin-responsive, late-onset multiple carboxylase deficiency. Untreated children with profound biotinidase deficiency usually exhibit neurological symptoms including lethargy, hypotonia, seizures, developmental delay, sensorineural hearing loss and optic atrophy; and cutaneous symptoms including skin rash, conjunctivitis and alopecia. Although the clinical features of the disorder markedly improve or are prevented with biotin supplementation, some symptoms, once they occur, such as developmental delay, hearing loss and optic atrophy, are usually irreversible. To prevent development of symptoms, the disorder is screened for in the newborn period in essentially all states and in many countries. In order to better understand many aspects of the pathophysiology of the disorder, we have developed a transgenic biotinidase-deficient mouse. The mouse has a null mutation that results in no detectable serum biotinidase activity or cross-reacting material to antibody prepared against biotinidase. When fed a biotin-deficient diet these mice develop neurological and cutaneous symptoms, carboxylase deficiency, mild hyperammonemia, and exhibit increased urinary excretion of 3-hydroxyisovaleric acid and biotin and biotin metabolites. The clinical features are reversed with biotin supplementation. This biotinidase-deficient animal can be used to study systematically many aspects of the disorder and the role of biotinidase, biotin and biocytin in normal and in enzyme-deficient states.
Nerve transfers for brachial plexus injuries

Traumatic adult brachial plexus injuries are a devastating injury that result in partial or total denervation of the muscles of the upper extremity. Treatment of these injuries has been evolving over the past several decades. Treatment options include neurolysis, nerve grafting, neurotization (nerve transfer), or use of free functioning gracilis muscle transfers. Neurotization is the transfer of a functional but less important nerve to a denervated more important nerve. It has become an important procedure in the restoration of function in patients with brachial plexus injuries and allows the reinnervation of muscles that are affected by otherwise irreparable preganglionic lesions. The introduction of novel nerve transfers has improved shoulder abduction and elbow flexion, and in select cases, even provided a reasonable possibility for grasp function. This paper will review commonly used neurotizations in brachial plexus reconstruction, the rationale for their use, as well as techniques, results and controversies.
Angiotensin Type 1 Receptors in the Subfornical Organ Mediate the Drinking and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Response to Systemic Isoproterenol

Circulating angiotensin II (ANGII) elicits water intake and activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis by stimulating angiotensin type 1 receptors (AT1Rs) within circumventricular organs. The subfornical organ (SFO) and the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (OVLT) are circumventricular organs that express AT1Rs that bind blood-borne ANGII and stimulate integrative and effector regions of the brain. The goal of these studies was to determine the contribution of AT1Rs within the SFO and OVLT to the water intake and HPA response to increased circulating ANGII. Antisense oligonucleotides directed against the AT1R [AT1R antisense (AT1R AS)] were administered into the OVLT or SFO. Quantitative receptor autoradiography confirmed that AT1R AS decreased ANGII binding in the SFO and OVLT compared with the scrambled sequence control but did not affect AT1R binding in other nuclei. Subsequently, water intake, ACTH, and corticosterone (CORT) were assessed after administration of isoproterenol, a beta-adrenergic agonist that decreases blood pressure and elevates circulating ANGII. Delivery of AT1R AS into the SFO attenuated water intake, ACTH, and CORT after isoproterenol, whereas similar treatment in the OVLT had no effect. To determine the specificity of this blunted drinking and HPA response, the same parameters were measured after treatment with hypertonic saline, a stimulus that induces drinking independently of ANGII. Delivery of AT1R AS into the SFO or OVLT had no effect on water intake, ACTH, or CORT after hypertonic saline. The results imply that AT1R within the SFO mediate drinking and HPA responses to stimuli that increase circulating ANGII.
ISOZYMES OF ISOCITRATE DEHYDROGENASE: SUBUNIT STRUCTURE AND INTRACELLULAR LOCATION.

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) exists in mammalian tissues as three enzymes, one specific for NAD and two specific for NADP. The two NADP isozymes differ in electrophoretic mobility, immunological characteristics, and tissue and subcellular location. ONe is found mainly in the mitochondrial fraction and one in the supernatant fraction of tissue homogenates. Two allelic forms of the supernatant NADP isocitrate dehydrogenase have been described in inbred strains of mice. In a heterozygote containing both alleles, three forms of the supernatant NADP-IDH are generated in a ratio of 1:2:1. This implies that the supernatant enzyme is a dimer. The mitochondrial form is not affected by the gene, indicating separate genetic control. Liver mitochondria contain both the supernatant and the mitochondrial isozymes. Thus at least one protein found in the mitochondria is encoded in a nuclear gene.
Concept possession, experimental semantics, and hybrid theories of reference

Contemporary debates about the nature of semantic reference have tended to focus on two competing approaches: theories which emphasize the importance of descriptive information associated with a referring term, and those which emphasize causal facts about the conditions under which the use of the term originated and was passed on. Recent empirical work by Machery and colleagues suggests that both causal and descriptive information can play a role in judgments about the reference of proper names, with findings of cross-cultural variation in judgments that imply differences between individuals with respect to whether they favor causal or descriptive information in making reference judgments. We extend this theoretical and empirical line of inquiry to views of the reference of natural and nominal kind concepts, which face similar challenges to those concerning the reference of proper names. In two experiments, we find evidence that both descriptive and causal factors contribute to judgments of concept refere...
Perturbed angular correlations in ferromagnets: The 100RhNi case

Studies of the hyperfine field for the system 100RhNi by both NMR/PAC and TDPAC techniques are reported and compared. The value at T = 296.0 ± 0.5 K is |Hhf| = 207.1 ± 0.6 kG. An upper limit on inhomogeneous and relaxation broadenings is set at 2.5 ± 0.5 MHz.
Enzymatic synthesis of position‐specific low‐calorie structured lipids

An immobilized sn-1,3-specific lipase from Rhizomucor miehei (IM 60) was used to catalyze the interesterification of tristearin (C18:0) and tricaprin (C10:0) to produce low-calorie structured lipids (SL). Acceptable product yields were obtained from a 1:1 mole ratio of both triacylglycerols with 10% (w/w of reactants) of IM 60 in 3 mL hexane. The SL molecular species, based on total carbon number, were 44.2% C41 and 40.5% C49, with 3.8 and 11.5% unreacted tristearin C57 and tricaprin C27, respectively, remaining in the product mixture. The best yield of C41 species (44.3%) was obtained with zero added water. Tricaprylin (C8:0) was also successfully interesterified with tristearin in good yields at 1:1 mole ratio. Products were analyzed by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with an evaporative light-scattering detector. Reaction parameters, such as substrate mole ratio, enzyme load, time course, added water, reaction media, and enzyme reuse, were also investigated. Hydrolysis by pancreatic lipase revealed the specific fatty acids present at the sn-1,3 positions of SL.
Experimental and Computational Analyses of Pressure Differentials in Flexible Ducts With Different Bent Angles

A set of experimental analyses was conducted to determine static pressure drops inside non-metallic flexible, spiral wire helix core ducts, with different bent angles. In addition, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) solutions were performed and verified by comparing them to the experimental data. The CFD computations were carried out to produce more systematic pressure drop information through these complex-geometry ducts. The experimental setup was constructed according to ASHRAE Standard 120-1999. Five different bent angles (0, 30, 45, 60, and 90 degrees) were tested at relatively low flow rates (11 to 89 CFM). Also, two different bent radii and duct lengths were tested to study flexible duct geometrical effects on static pressure drops. FLUENT 6.2, using RANS based two equations - RNG k-e model, was used for the CFD analyses. The experimental and CFD results showed that larger bent angles produced larger static pressure drops in the flexible ducts. CFD analysis data were found to be in relatively good agreement with the experimental results for all bent angle cases. However, the deviations became slightly larger at higher velocity regimes and at the longer test sections. Overall, static pressure drop for longer length cases were approximately 0.01in.H2 O higher when compared to shorter cases because of the increase in resistance to the flow. Also, the CFD simulations captured more pronounced static pressure drops that were produced along the sharper turns. The stronger secondary flows, which resulted from higher and lower static pressure distributions in the outer and inner surfaces, respectively, contributed to these higher pressure drops.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Portable ultrasound: the next generation arrives.

A new category of handheld devices has recently emerged that are even smaller than current portable models, with their main advantages being increased portability and affordability relative to their counterparts. However, these new devices have not yet been thoroughly evaluated in the clinical setting. A prospective, non-blinded, three-phase study was designed to evaluate a handheld ultrasound device as compared to a common compact ultrasound machine for the performance of paracenteses and thoracenteses on human patients. For the vast majority of straight-forward evaluations, the handheld device was sufficient to safely complete the procedure without further imaging. For difficult cases with smaller fluid collections or anatomic aberrations, further localization with the common compact machine continued to be useful to improve the operator’s confidence in the findings. This novice handheld device represents only one of what appears to be a growing number of new ultra-portable ultrasound devices on the market. These devices represent a new and exciting form of ultrasound technology that may benefit patients and physicians in multiple venues. While they are unlikely to replace standard ultrasound devices for many of the more complex applications, their extreme portability allows for ultrasound imaging in more diverse situations that has previously been practical. Based on our limited experience, the image quality is adequate and the learning curve is reasonable. Future integration of PDA technology could further the utility of these devices and additional study will be important to further define their appropriate niche and clinical utility.
Electrophysiological correlates of sound localization in extralemniscal structures

Abstract Using stereotaxically oriented macro-electrodes, 78 points were investigated in sixteen brain structures outside (extralemniscal) and three structures within (lemniscal) the classical auditory projection system to determine the presence of electrophysiological phenomena which appear to correlate with an animal's ability to localize a brief sound. A total of seven unanesthetized but immobilized cats were used in these experiments. Fifteen extralemniscal and all three lemniscal structures demonstrated amplitude effects reflecting binaural interaction. In addition, there was often a marked difference between the amplitude of the response produced upon contralateral versus ipsilateral sound stimulation, the former response usually being greater. The significance of these localization correlates in extralemniscal structures remains to be determined.
Governing bodies that consider joining or creating federations

This article reports the findings of a research study exploring what motivates governing bodies to consider joining or creating a federation, their experiences of the process and the barriers faced...
Postsynaptic Action of Cobra Toxin at the Myoneural Junction

RECENT investigations of peptide fractions from cobra venoms suggest that the most potent acute toxicity arises from a curare-like block of the action of acetylcholine at the skeletal myoneural junction1–3. I wish to report the effects on myoneural transmission of toxin T3 from Naja naja siamensis—(Kaouthia) (Thailand cobra) venom, a pure peptide of known amino-acid composition4.
Reactions of triphenylsilicon, -germanium and -tin azides with their corresponding hydrides

Abstract The azides of triphenyl-silicon, -germanium and -tin react with their corresponding hydrides to yield Ph 3 SiNHSiPh 3 , Ph 3 SiNHGePh 3 , Ph 3 GeNHGePh 3 , Ph 3 SiNH 2 , NH 3 and N 2 respectively. The failure to isolate compounds containing tin nitrogen bonds is attributed to a secondary reaction in which the tin nitrogen bond is cleaved by the hydride under the reaction conditions.
Ontogeny of antibody response to Brucellaabortus in turkeys

Abstract No differences were detected between large White Nicholas and small White Hybrid turkeys in antibody (AB) titers in birds vaccinated with Brucella abortus . Maximal AB titers occurred by 6 weeks of age and remained high throughout life. B. abortus elicits an AB response when injected at day of hatch while bursectomy at day of hatch and 2 days of age significantly depressed this response. There was an apparent immunological maturation process occurring to B. abortus in the bursa of Fabricius which continued for approximately 6 weeks.
Speaking the Truth to the Power of the Presidency

Instead of focusing on what characteristics the next president of the United States should have, we need to focus on the institutional realities of the presidency. Those realities consistently reflect a system dedicated to maintaining the dominance of the United States through economic and military power, and maintaining the ruling elite's control of economic and political power in this country. Persons committed to the practice of the Gospel, especially in solidarity with the poor, must name, confront and resist those institutional and cultural realities. This truth-telling can take many forms, such as life in community with the poor, public speaking, preaching, writing, demonstrations, civil disobedience, and some involvement in electoral politics. All of these will be informed by a realism that struggles faithfully without placing undue hope on presidential politics.
Real-time dynamics of amperometric exhaust oxygen sensors

Previously, we had identified the various dynamic mechanisms of a wide range air to fuel ratio sensor operated in the engine exhaust by using the transfer function approach. In this study, we utilized these results to model the real time sensor response to an engine exhaust excursion. Generally, the model fits the real time sensor data well. In the fitting, we identified a new dynamic mechanism, which was not detected in the previous transfer function study. This new dynamic occurred at the stoichiometric point when the engine changed from rich to lean. This new mechanism involved the depletion of the adsorbed fuel species on the electrode surface by an oxidation process. The dynamics of this effect depends on the ratio of the diffusion flux of the sensor-coating layer to the total adsorbed gas species on the electrode surface. The smaller the ratio is, the slower the dynamic mechanism becomes.
Calculation of phase diagrams of some oxide systems using the cluster variation method

Abstract For calculating phase diagrams of mineral/ceramic systems, the cluster variation method CVM is a useful tool. The CVM is a hierarchy in which the approximations based on point- and pair-clusters correspond to the Bragg-Williams and Bethe approximations, respectively. Work on the CuAu system indicates that at least a tetrahedron approximation is required for fcc based systems; apparently, tetrahedron correlations are needed to account for the frustration effect. The CaCO3-MgCO3 system was successfully treated as a trigonally distorted fcc-based system, in an anisotropic tetrahedron approximation. The Fe2O3-FeTiO3 system, was treated as a derivative of the simple hexagonal lattice in which permanent vacant sites occupy 1 3 of the lattice sites; a triangular prism was used as the basic cluster. Although the CVM was originally developed to study alloy systems, we find that it yields quite reasonable results for these more complicated mineral/ceramic systems, even though we use highly simplified ad hoc parameterizations for the internal energy.