cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enforcing Predictive Invariance across Structured Biomedical Domains

Many biochemical applications such as molecular property prediction require models to generalize beyond their training domains (environments). Moreover, natural environments in these tasks are structured, defined by complex descriptors such as molecular scaffolds or protein families. Therefore, most environments are either never seen during training, or contain only a single training example. To address these challenges, we propose a new regret minimization (RGM) algorithm and its extension for structured environments. RGM builds from invariant risk minimization (IRM) by recasting simultaneous optimality condition in terms of predictive regret, finding a representation that enables the predictor to compete against an oracle with hindsight access to held-out environments. The structured extension adaptively highlights variation due to complex environments via specialized domain perturbations. We evaluate our method on multiple applications: molecular property prediction, protein homology and stability prediction and show that RGM significantly outperforms previous state-of-the-art baselines.
Gene-by-environment interactions in agricultural pest management: population effects on diet-Bt interactions in a caterpillar

Given that plant nutrient content is both spatially and temporally dynamic (Lenhart et al., 2015; Deans et al., 2016, 2018), insect herbivores are exposed to an incredible amount of nutritional variability. This variability can constrain insects to feeding on sub-optimal resources, but it can also provide an opportunity for insects to regulate their intake of specific nutrients to obtain an optimal balance. Nutrient regulation has implications for pest control strategies in agricultural systems, as the nutritional state of pest species may impact their susceptibility to insecticides. Deans et al. (2017) showed that diet macronutrient balance has significant effects on the susceptibility of Helicoverpa zea larvae to Cry1Ac, an endotoxin expressed in transgenic Bt crops. This was demonstrated using a highly inbred laboratory strain of H. zea, limiting the applicability of these results to field populations that encompass greater genetic diversity. In this study, we assessed the impact of field-relevant macronutrient variability on the efficacy of two Bt endotoxins, Cry1Ab and Cry1Ac, using three field populations collected from different geographic regions. This was done to further understand the impact of nutritional variability on Bt susceptibility and also to determine the relevance of these effects in the field. While we saw limited differences in Cry susceptibility across populations, dietary effects were highly variable. Across populations there were distinct population-level differences in the interactions between Cry concentration and diet, the type of Cry toxin impacted by diet, and the treatment diet that produced optimal survival and performance. These results show that nutrition can have strong impacts on Bt susceptibility but also that these impacts are strongly affected by genetic background in H. zea. To accurately assess Bt susceptibility in the field, including resistance monitoring, bioassay methods should incorporate the appropriate nutritional parameters and be as localized as possible.
Evolving Complexity Theory (ECT) of Talent Development: A New Vision for Gifted and Talented Education

Conceptions of giftedness and talent have undergone significant changes since Galton (Hereditary genius: An inquiry into its laws and consequences. London, UK: Macmillan, 1869) and Terman (Genetic studies of genius: Vol. 1, Mental and physical traits of a thousand gifted children. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 1925). The general consensus seems to be that human potential is pluralistic rather than monolithic, dynamic rather than fixed; talent is shaped through developmental interaction with the environment over time in a bidirectional, probabilistic manner, rather than uni-directionally determined. In line with this general trend, I present Evolving Complexity Theory (ECT), a theory of talent development I have built with a developmental systems approach, as an attempt to account for a diverse range of talent outcomes. In this chapter, I first present major arguments of ECT phrased as a set of eight interrelated propositions regarding what develops, how it develops, and when it develops. I then compare ECT with other conceptions of talent development to show how a theoretical synthesis like ECT contributes to our understanding of developmental potential and its short-term and long-term development. Finally, I discuss practical implications of ECT, particularly with respect to educational policy, identification, educational intervention, and psychological guidance.
Spectroscopic characterization of low-phonon Er-doped BaF2 single crystal for mid-IR lasers

We present spectroscopic properties of the low-maximum-phonon energy host material, barium fluoride (BaF2) doped with Er3+ ions. Following optical excitation at 800 nm, Er3+:BaF2 exhibited broad mid-IR emission bands centered at ∼2.75, ∼3.5, and ∼4.5 µm, corresponding to the 4I11/2 → 4I13/2, 4F9/2 → 4I9/2 and 4I9/2 → 4I11/2 transitions, respectively. Temperature-dependent fluorescence spectra and decay times were recorded for the 4I9/2 level, which was resonantly excited at ∼800 nm. The multi-phonon decay rates of several closely spaced Er3+ transitions were derived using the well-known energy-gap law, and the host-dependent energy-gap law parameters B and α were determined to be 9.15 × 108 s−1 and 5.58 × 10−3 cm, respectively. The obtained parameters were subsequently used to describe the temperature dependence of the ∼4.5 µm mid-IR emission lifetime in a temperature range of 12 - 300 K. The stimulated emission cross-section of the 4I9/2 → 4I11/2 transition of Er3+ ion was derived for the first time among the known fluoride hosts, to the best of our knowledge, and found to be 0.11 × 10−20 cm2 at room temperature and 0.21 × 10−20 cm2 at 77 K.
Ecoregional Green Roofs, Infrastructure, and Future Outlook

Chapter 11 provides a synthesis of and commentary about ecoregional green roofs informed by the case studies in Part II. Discussions address critical factors outlined in Chap. 2 such as the conservation of native plant communities, the use of native vegetation on green roofs, biodiversity, maintenance, water for irrigation, and microclimates. This chapter also discusses how ecoregional green roofs have been used as a part of therapeutic and biophilic design, how green roofs play an important role in the development of green and sustainable architecture, integrated site design, and parameters implicit to LEED, the Living Building Challenge, and SITES programs. We also discuss the use, integration, and potential expansion of ecoregional green roofs at various scales as well as landscape structures such as corridors, patches, and matrices. The chapter concludes with a look at future opportunities for green roofs. We discuss research gaps, where new knowledge and research are needed. We also note opportunities related to policies, education, industry support, and innovation.
2-O, 3-O desulfated heparin (ODSH) increases bacterial clearance and attenuates lung injury in cystic fibrosis by restoring HMGB1-compromised macrophage function.

Background High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) is an alarmin following its release by immune cells upon cellular activation or stress. High levels of extracellular HMGB1 play a critical role in impairing the clearance of invading pulmonary pathogens and dying neutrophils in the injured lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A heparin derivative, 2-O, 3-O desulfated heparin (ODSH), has been shown to inhibit HMGB1 release from a macrophage cell line and is efficacious in increasing bacterial clearance in a mouse model of pneumonia. Thus, we hypothesized that ODSH can attenuate the bacterial burden and inflammatory lung injury in CF and we conducted experiments to determine the underlying mechanisms. Methods We determined the effects of ODSH on lung injury produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infection in CF mice with the transmembrane conductance regulator gene knockout (CFTR-/-). Mice were given ODSH or normal saline intraperitoneally, followed by the determination of the bacterial load and lung injury in the airways and lung tissues. ODSH binding to HMGB1 was determined using surface plasmon resonance and in silico docking analysis of the interaction of the pentasaccharide form of ODSH with HMGB1. Results CF mice given 25 mg/kg i.p. of ODSH had significantly lower PA-induced lung injury compared to mice given vehicle alone. The CF mice infected with PA had decreased levels of nitric oxide (NO), increased levels of airway HMGB1 and HMGB1-impaired macrophage phagocytic function. ODSH partially attenuated the PA-induced alteration in the levels of NO and airway HMGB1 in CF mice. In addition, ODSH reversed HMGB1-impaired macrophage phagocytic function. These effects of ODSH subsequently decreased the bacterial burden in the CF lungs. In a surface plasmon resonance assay, ODSH interacted with HMGB1 with high affinity (KD = 3.89 × 10-8 M) and induced conformational changes that may decrease HMGB1's binding to its membrane receptors, thus attenuating HMGB1-induced macrophage dysfunction. Conclusions The results suggest that ODSH can significantly decrease bacterial infection-induced lung injury in CF mice by decreasing both HMGB1-mediated impairment of macrophage function and the interaction of HMGB1 with membrane receptors. Thus, ODSH could represent a novel approach for treating CF and ARDS patients that have HMGB1-mediated lung injury.
Evolution of porous materials from ancient remedies to modern frameworks

Porous materials play a significant role in modern chemistry and materials science; despite recent scientific interest, they have a history dating back to antiquity. Here the authors provide a brief overview of the past that has contributed to their evolution.
An Appropriate Response: A Skills Development Framework

In this chapter, we lay out a conceptual framework for a skill development perspective to entrepreneurship development. We argue that entrepreneurship development should be considered a transformational offering that requires mass customization. Developing entrepreneurs necessitate a skills-based complex system. For this purpose, we describe a conceptual framework for managing such a system called Transformational Collaborative Outcomes Management (TCOM), which comes from the helping professions, particularly behavioral health. We elaborate its five-stage process—access, assessment and engagement, intervention planning and delivery, monitoring and adapting, coordination and care management, and transitioning—and adapt this to the entrepreneurship development process.
Associations of self-reported chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with indicators of economic instability and stress - 16 states, 2017.

Objectives To examine the association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease status and indicators of economic instability and stress to better understand the magnitude of these issues in persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Methods Analyzed 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from 16 states that administered the 'Social Determinants of Health' module, which included economic instability and stress measures (N = 101,461). Associations between self-reported doctor-diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease status and each measure were examined using multinomial logistic models. Results Adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were more likely (p Discussion Financial, housing, and food insecurity and frequent stress were more prevalent in adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease than without. Findings highlight the importance of including strategies to address challenges related to economic instability and stress in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease management programs.
Cell Analysis in Valved Microfluidic Devices

A novel μTAS methodology for chemical cytometry is presented. Microfluidic chambers defined by microvalves are used to isolate and lyse cells, followed by fluorescent derivatization and separation of the cellular contents.
Detection of tie‐molecules by thermal analysis

New experiments are presented which demonstrate the presence of tie-molecules in bulk-crystallized linear polyethylene. The experiments involve analysis by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) on originally crystallized samples and undissolved residues left behind after partial extraction of these samples. Neue Experimente, welche Tie-Molekule in schmelzkristallisiertem linearem Polyathylen aufzeigen, werden beschrieben. Die Experimente werden mit Differentialthermoanalyse (DSC) an direkt kristallisierten Proben und an ubriggebliebenen, nicht gelosten Ruckstanden nach teilweiser Extraktion dieser Proben durchgefuhrt.
Nonparametric probability density estimation for data analysis in several dimensions

Nonparametric probability density estimates, in particular the corresponding contour curves, it is shown, are a useful adjunct to scatter diagrams when performing a preliminary examination of a set of random data in several dimensions.
Scattering of 22-Mev Alpha Particles by N 14

The inelastic scattering of 21.5-Mev alpha particles by nitrogen has been investigated. Previously unreported levels at 7.94\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.07, 8.45\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.07, and 10.05\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.07 Mev in ${\mathrm{N}}^{14}$ are observed. Levels at 2.31, 7.4, 7.7, 8.06, and 9.49 Mev reported in other reactions are not observed. This confirms the isotopic spin $T=1$ assignment to the 2.31- and 8.06-Mev levels, and suggests such an assignment for the 9.49-Mev level. The status of the 7.4- and 7.7-Mev levels is uncertain.
Longitudinal data collection of Mycobacterium avium subspecies Paratuberculosis infections in dairy herds: the value of precise field data

Longitudinal infection data on Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) was collected on three dairy farms in Northeastern United States during approximately 10 years. Precise data on animal characteristics and animal location within farm were collected on these farms. Cows were followed over time with regard to MAP status during biannual fecal and serum sampling and quarterly serum sampling. Approximately 13 000 serum samples, 6500 fecal samples and 2000 tissue samples were collected during these years. Prevalence of positive samples was 1.4% for serological samples, 2.2% in fecal samples and 16.7% in tissue samples. Infection dynamics of MAP was studied and resulted in a number of potential changes in our understanding of MAP infection dynamics. First, a high prevalence of MAP infection was observed in these herds due to lifetime follow up of cows, including slaughter. Second, two distinctly different infection patterns were observed, so called non-progressors and progressors. Non-progressors were characterized by intermittent and low shedding of MAP bacteria and a virtual absence of a humoral immune response. Progressors were characterized by continuous and progressive shedding and a clearly detectable and progressive humoral immune response. Strain typing of MAP isolates on the three farms identified on two of three farms a dominant strain type, indicating that some strains are more successful in terms of transmission and infection progression. Continuous high quality longitudinal data collection turned out to be an essential tool in our understanding of pathobiology and epidemiology of MAP infections in dairy herds.
A study of experimental lancets for blood collection to avoid bone infection of infants

We describe a study made at two pediatric centers to test experimental lancets for blood collection by skin puncture of infants' heels or fingers. Our primary goal is to decrease the hazard of osseous injury while collecting adequate blood, by using three lancet widths at a constant length of 1.0 mm. The three widths used were 1.0, 1.25, and 1.5 mm. When success at skin puncture was defined rigidly on the basis of the blood volume obtained, the data show that success was related neither to the lancets' dimensions as tested nor to the age of the child, but rather to the phlebotomist's skill and experience, which improved with time.
Continuous revolution: Making sense of Cultural Revolution culture

During China’s Cultural Revolution (1966–1976), artworks and artists endured rigorous restrictions. The Party banned traditional Chinese themes and styles as well as ‘capitalist’ art. It required t...
Fungal mycotic vegetation in the ascending aorta.

Background In most clinical scenarios, the appropriate diagnostic methodology and treatment plan can be determined in a timely manner. However, complex clinical cases with obscure etiology can be deceptive, and a multidisciplinary approach can help to clarify things. At the Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, we encountered a huge progressive mass in the ascending aorta in a 50-year-old chronic hemodialysis patient after mechanical aortic valve replacement. In addition to initial image diagnosis and consultation workups, a transcranial Doppler (TCD) study identified continuous generation of microemboli that suggested the need for urgent surgical resection instead of conservative heparin IV therapy. Histopathology showed the huge friable mass to be hyphenated fungal mycosis (Aspergillus or Fusarium) and necrotic tissue surrounded by fresh thrombus. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged home.
Finding What You Want

When we adopt augmentative technologies, we usually find that we have to adjust our ideas, goals, and habits to fit our new tool.
The reinforcement threshold for nicotine as a target for tobacco control

Abstract Background Cigarette smoking represents an enormous public health problem worldwide that leads to over 5 million deaths per year. The gradual reduction of the nicotine content of cigarettes below the threshold that is required to develop addiction is one strategy that might substantially reduce the number of addicted smokers and prevent adolescents from becoming addicted to nicotine ( Benowitz and Henningfield, 1994 ). While the potential public health benefits of this approach are enormous, the guiding concepts and relevant empirical evidence needed to support the implementation of a nicotine reduction policy require a critical examination. Methods The purpose of this paper is to briefly review the current concepts and research regarding nicotine reduction while also discussing the utility of the addictive threshold for nicotine in this approach. The accurate determination of the nicotine addiction threshold presents some conceptual challenges as there is a lack of consensus on how to best measure nicotine addiction. This difficulty can impede the progress for developing a science-based tobacco control policy. As an alternative, the nicotine reinforcement threshold is a relatively clear concept, and well-accepted methods and criteria are available to measure nicotine reinforcement. Results However, there are many gaps in our current knowledge concerning the nicotine reinforcement threshold in humans. The threshold for nicotine reinforcement remains to be determined in controlled settings using different populations of current or potential tobacco users. In addition, the value of the nicotine reinforcement threshold in predicting tobacco use in real-world settings needs to be examined. The results of such studies will determine the potential utility of the estimated threshold for nicotine reinforcement in developing science-based tobacco control policies.
Managing Intimate Partner Violence in the Emergency Department

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pattern of assaultive or coercive behaviors, perpetrated by someone who was or is in an intimate relationship with the person. IPV includes injury, psychological abuse, forced social isolation, intimidation, threats, and stalking. Very few health conditions impact as many people as profoundly as IPV: in the United States, more than one third of women and one fourth of men will experience physical violence, threats and rape by a partner over their lifetimes.1 Major medical organizations, including the Joint Commission, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP)2 and the US Preventive Services Task Force,3 have advocated for screening by healthcare providers at point of contact, and the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has recommended incorporating IPV screening as part of preventative care.4 However, in practice, screening rates are low, even after training initiatives and triage protocols,5 and providers demonstrate uncertainty around screening and counseling.6 The identification and management of IPV requires only a few, straightforward actions, but they must be done consistently and with sensitivity to the difficulty of disclosing abuse and the potentially complex needs of the individual being abused.
Copper(I)/(t-BuOOH)-Induced Activation of Dioxygen for the Ketonization of Methylenic Carbons

In acetonitrile/pyridine bis(bipyridine)copper(I) [CuI(bpy) 2 + ] activates HOOH and t-BuOOH for the selective ketonization of methylenic carbons. With 5 mM CuI(bpy) 2 + /100 mM HOOH(Bu) the conversion efficiencies [product per 2 HOOH(Bu)] for c-C6H12 are 31% (HOOH) and 59% (t-BuOOH, argon atmosphere), and for PhCH2CH3 are 24% (HOOH) and 64% (t-BuOOH, argon). With 5 mM CuI(bpy)2 and 10 mM t-BuOOH under argon the conversion efficiency for c-C6H12 is 10% and for PhCH2CH3 is 140%. However, in the presence of O2 (1 atm, 7 mM) the conversion efficiency for c-C6H12 increases to 67%, and for PhCH2CH3 to 440% [all PhC(O)Me (22 mM)], respectively. The latter result represents a CuI(bpy) 2 + / t-BuOOH-induced auto-oxygenation with at least 2.2 O2/catalyst turnovers. The first-formed intermediate is a one-to-one adduct [(bpy)2CuIOOBu-t + pyH+, 1], which reacts with (a) excess CuI(bpy) 2 + to give 2 (bpy) 2 + CuIIOH, (b) excess t-BuOOH to give O2 and t-BuOH, (c) excess c-C6H12 to give c-C6H11OH, (d) excess c-C6H12 and excess t-BuOOH to give c-C6H11OOBu-t, and (e) O2 to form an adduct, [(bpy)2CuIII(O2)(OOBu-t) + pyH+, 5], that reacts with (i) c-C6H12 to give c-C6H10(O) and c-C6H11OH and (ii) PhCH2CH3 to give PhC(O)CH3.
The Future of the Capitalist State by Bob Jessop

(2004). The Future of the Capitalist State by Bob Jessop. Economic Geography: Vol. 80, No. 3, pp. 311-313.
Mergers and synergy: Lessons from contemporary telecommunications history

Using contemporary historical data, the analysis reported in this article has evaluated the impact of the various mergers of the local exchange companies that took place between 1988 and 2001 on financial performance. Performance was measured using an important metric normally used to measure synergies of firms undergoing mergers. The analysis has revealed that the relative cash flow variable for firms worsened after mergers. If the synergy motive had been primary in influencing merger decisions, and also approvals, then the past mergers approved led to decreased performance levels and corresponding welfare losses for American consumers; thus, the mergers of communications common carriers were not in the interest of the public, the shareholders and customers. On the other hand, given the negative outcomes, views that the quiet life, hubris or a quest for possible market power motivated the mergers could be discarded. The lessons of such contemporary historical analysis have suggested that antitrust oppositions to contemporary telecommunications sector mergers may have basis in fact and salient evidence.
Cytokinesis and nodal anatomy in the charophycean green alga Chara zeylanica

Cell plate formation in Chara zeylanica was compared with recent models of cytokinesis in higher plants in order to gain insight into the evolutionary origin of plant cytokinetic processes. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveals that while cytokinesis in C. zeylanica bears many features in common with that in higher plants, there are significant differences. Unlike that in higher plants, cytokinesis in C. zeylanica begins with a congregation of smooth membrane tubules that are closely associated with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi membranes. Mitochondria and other organelles excluded by the phragmoplast in higher plants are present as well. Unlike in higher plants, phragmoplast microtubules persist throughout cytokinesis in C. zeylanica, and the cell plate generally forms across the whole cell at once, though development is patchy, due to small regions developing at different rates; the ends of the plate form last. By identifying aspects of cytokinesis that are different in C. zeylanica and plants, our study indicates which cytokinetic features are more likely to be derived, and which are more likely to be ancestral. In addition, we demonstrated that all nodal cells of C. zeylanica are interconnected via plasmodesmata, lending support to the idea that, while Chara spp. are generally considered to be filamentous organisms, nodal regions may be thought of as meristemlike tissues.
Peak to average power reduction using amplitude and sign adjustment

In this paper, we propose a method to reduce the peak to mean envelope power ratio (PMEPR) of multicarrier signals by modifying the constellation. For MPSK constellations, we minimize the maximum of the multicarrier signal over the sign and amplitude of each subcarrier. In order to find an efficient solution to the aforementioned non-convex optimization problem, we present a suboptimal solution by first optimizing over the signs using the result of M. Sharif et al. (2003), and then optimizing over the amplitudes given the signs. We prove that the minimization of the maximum of a multicarrier signal over the amplitude of each subcarrier can be written as a convex optimization problem with linear matrix inequality constraints. We also generalize the idea to other constellations such as 16QAM. Simulation results show that by an average power increase of 0.21 db and not sending information over the sign of each subcarrier, PMEPR can be decreased by 5.1 db for a system with 128 subcarriers.
Ionic and Electronic Conductivity in Coumarin and Benzophenone Complexes With Alkali Polyiodides

Abstract A group of clathrated metal polyiodides has been prepared using the carbonyl compounds benzophenone, some of its derivatives, or coumarin as the organic “host” and alkali or ammonium iodide-iodine mixture as the “guest”. We first reported1 on the conductivity and optical properties of single crystals of (benzophenone)9 (KI)2I7CHCl3, which have a golden, metallic reflection on the crystal surface parallel to the polyiodine chain axis. DC conductivity was ∼ 10−6 Ω−1 cm−1 at room temperature, along this axis, and about one order of magnitude lower across the needle axis, whereas the (contactless) microwave conductivity was ∼ 10 Ω−1 cm−1 at room temperature. The cation M+ was then varied to be Li+, Na+, Rb+, Cs+, NH4 +, and R4N+, solvent of crystallization was varied, and it became clear that the conductivity was a mixture of ionic and electronic conductivity, the total varying from 10−2 to 10−6 Ω−1 cm−1 depending on both cation and solvent. 2,3 Structural work has indicated that, in most members of ...
A Cinematic Study of Bronchiolar Reactions.

ConclusionFresh sections of excised lung may be used for microscopic study of ciliary activity, rhythmic contractions, peristalsis, and drug and anaphylactic reactions of bronchioles.
Viscosity structure of a layered convecting mantle

Since the formulation of plate tectonics1, there has been vigorous debate among geophysicists and isotope geochemists concerning the depth extent of mantle flow associated with lithospheric plate motions2–9. Some believed that the flow is confined to the upper mantle2,3,6, others that the flow may penetrate deeper or throughout the mantle4,5,8,9. Recently, it was suggested 9,10 that if the lower mantle convected separately, then it would probably be so hot that it would melt extensively in its upper portion. As there is no evidence for such melting, it was concluded that whole-mantle circulation was more probable. Here I present a related but more robust argument which leads to the same conclusion. I demonstrate that in a layered mantle, the lower mantle would probably have a viscosity two to three orders of magnitude less than the upper mantle, and this is probably incompatible with observational constraints.
The effect of the morphology of urea-formaldehyde pigments in paper filler applications

Abstract White polymeric pigments, based on urea-formaldehyde condensation products, are described. These pigments are composed of nonporous “particles” which are partially coalesced to form agglomerates of controlled size. While the “particles” are nonporous, mercury porosimetry studies indicate that the pigment agglomerates have a pore volume of 2 cm 3 /g with a modal pore diameter of 0.3–0.5 μm. Automated image analysis shows that the mean agglomerate size of the pigments can be varied from about 5 to 20 μm. The morphology of the urea-formaldehyde pigments makes them highly suitable for use in paper filler applications where they exhibit high first-pass retention and provide opacity and bulk. Porosimetry studies show that in paper the pigment agglomerates maintain their pore structure and increase the apparent interfiber void volume of the sheet. Calendering reduces both the agglomerate pore volume and the apparent interfiber void volume and shifts their modal pore and void diameters to smaller sizes. The effect of such changes on the bulk and opacity of paper is discussed.
Occupational irritant and allergic rhinitis.

The upper airway (extending from the nares to larynx) fulfills essential physiologic functions, including sensation, air conditioning, filtration, and communication. As the portal of entry for the respiratory tract, the upper airway’s sentinel function is performed by the olfactory and trigeminal nerves. Sensory (eye, nose and throat) irritation figures prominently in symptom reporting in so-called "problem buildings," as well as in industrial exposures to irritant gases, vapors, and smokes. Both irritants and allergens can alter function in the upper airway, leading to loss of air conditioning and filtering due to airflow obstruction and hypersecretion. Increasing evidence points to a “unified airway” model of pathogenesis (in which rhinitis may precede the development of asthma). The spectrum of occupational irritant- and allergen-related upper airway health effects—including sensory irritation, olfactory dysfunction, rhinitis, sinusitis, nasal septal perforation, and sinonasal cancer—is reviewed in this article.
Reasons for ineffective contraceptive use antedating adolescent pregnancies part 1: an indicator of gaps in family planning services.

Purpose Identify new ways to increase the impact of pregnancy prevention interventions on the number of children born to adolescents. Methods The study participants, a racially/ethnically diverse group of 1,568, pregnant 13–18 year olds, reported why they had not used contraception at the time of conception. Their explanations were sorted into categories. The frequency with which each category was endorsed, the stability of these endorsements (Kappa statistic), and differences between adolescents who endorsed each category (stepwise logistic regression) were examined at two points in gestation. Results “Not ready to prevent pregnancy” was the most frequently endorsed category; it was often the only category endorsed. Logistical barriers and misperceptions about the need for contraception were the least frequently endorsed categories. The reasons individual patients gave for not using contraception changed (K ≤ 0.4) during gestation. Yet, adolescents who were not ready to prevent conception consistently differed from those who were; they were more apt to be Hispanic, to live in non-chaotic environments with an adult father of the child rather than their parents, and to have goals compatible with adolescent childbearing. Conclusions The most expedient way to strengthen the impact of pregnancy prevention programs on adolescent childbearing is to shift the focus of intervention from overcoming logistical barriers and misperceptions about the need for contraception, to helping young women develop goals that make adolescent childbearing a threat to what they want in life. This means intervening actively enough to ensure that goal setting translates into an internal desire to postpone childbearing beyond adolescence.
Biohydrogenation of Linolenic Acid to Stearic Acid by the Rumen Microbial Population Yields Multiple Intermediate Conjugated Diene Isomers

The current literature suggests that linolenic acid biohydrogenation converts to stearic acid without the formation of CLA. However, a multitude of CLA were identified in the rumen that are generally attributed to linoleic acid biohydrogenation. This study used a stable isotope tracer to investigate the biohydrogenation intermediates of (13)C-linolenic acid, including CLA. A continuous culture fermenter was used to maintain a mixed microbial population obtained from the rumen of cattle at pH 6.5 for 6 d. The mixed fermenter contents were then transferred to batch cultures containing either (13)C-labeled or unlabeled linolenic acid, which were run in triplicate for 0, 3, 24, and 48 h. The (13)C enrichment was determined by GC-MS. After 48 h of incubation, 8 CLA isomers were significantly enriched, suggesting that these CLA isomers originated directly from linolenic acid. The cis-10, cis-12 CLA isomer exhibited the highest enrichment (21.7%), followed by cis-9, cis-11 and trans-8, trans-10 CLA. The enrichment of these 2 CLA isomers ranged from 20.1 to 21.1% and the remaining 5 CLA including cis-9, trans-11 CLA were <15.0%. A multitude of nonconjugated and partially conjugated 18:2 and 18:3 isomers was enriched during the 48 h of incubation. The results of this study confirm that mixed ruminal microbes are capable of the formation of several CLA and 18:3 isomers from linolenic acid, indicating that linolenic acid biohydrogenation pathways are more complex than previously reported.
Acidity gradients in the kipda region

Acid precipitation leaves fingerprints upon marble surfaces. Preserved in weathering crusts on dated monuments, these fingerprints serve as guides to identify levels of acidity of a region. We collected scrapings from protected surfaces of tombstones made of Georgia marble whose dates of installation could be determined with reasonable certainty. These scrapings were allowed to equilibrate in 100 ml of deionized water, and the solutions were analyzed for, among other species, sulfates and nitrates. In Louisville, it was found that sulfate is present on tombstones that had been installed as late as 1985. However, to the east, 25 miles away, 1967 is the date of the latest monument with sulfate. An acidity map was produced showing time contours, in other words, the time needed to produce discernible quantities of sulfate. This map reveals that the effect of SO2 on marble diminishes rapidly with increased distance away from the western Louisville industrial area. The use of marble monuments to monitor changes in the acid deposition patterns is suggested.
Establishment of Peristenus digoneutis (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a parasite of the tarnished plant bug (Hemiptera: Miridae), in the United States.

The tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), is one of the two mirids that frequently are abundant on alfalfa in the northeastern United States. This insect also is a pest of numerous fruits and vegetables. We have established the European parasite Peristenus digoneutis Loan in northern New Jersey, and it has spread downwind into two additional counties, one of which is in New York State. Average total parasitism of tarnished plant bug nymphs in 1987–1988 was 36% in the first generation and 29% in the second, each about three times the normal rate of parasitism by native parasites.
Stochastic prey arrivals and crab spider giving-up times: simulations of spider performance using two simple "rules of thumb"

We compared the patch-choice performances of an ambush predator, the crab spider Misumena vatia (Thomisidae) hunting on common milkweed Asclepias syriaca (Asclepiadaceae) umbles, with two stochastic rule-of-thumb simulation models: one that employed a threshold giving-up time and one that assumed a fixed probability of moving. Adult female Misumena were placed on milkweed plants with three umbels, each with markedly different numbers of flower-seeking prey. Using a variety of visitation regimes derived from observed visitation patterns of insect prey, we found that decreases in among-umbel variance in visitation rates or increases in overall mean visitation rates reduced the “clarity of the optimum” (the difference in the yield obtained as foraging behavior changes), both locally and globally. Yield profiles from both models were extremely flat or jagged over a wide range of prey visitation regimes; thus, differences between optimal and “next-best” strategies differed only modestly over large parts of the “foraging landscape”. Although optimal yields from fixed probability simulations were one-third to one-half those obtained from threshold simulations, spiders appear to depart umbels in accordance with the fixed probability rule.
Human Alveolar Macrophage Proteolytic Enzyme Activities in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Lack of Correlation with Functional Abnormalities

The occurrence of emphysema in people deficient in alpha 1 -antitrypein and the production of emphysema in experimental animals with elastolytic enzymes suggest proteolysis as a mechanism for the development of emphysema. To investigate the possible role of pulmonary alveolar macrophages in the pathogenesis of emphysema, we measured elastase, acid protease, and elastase-like esterase activities in macrophages from patients with chronic obstructive lung disease and attempted to correlate the level of enzyme activity with the severity of pulmonary function abnormality measured in these patients. Compared to values for cigarette smokers with normal pulmonary function, these macrophage enzyme activities were not increased in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease, and there was no correlation of high elastase activity with more severe degrees of pulmonary function abnormality. These findings lead us to believe that the absolute level of proteolytic enzymes in pulmonary alveolar macrophages is not in itself a determinant of emphysema.
New Zealand's revolution in spectrum management

In 1989 New Zealand’s Fourth Labour Government passed a new radiocommunications law which radically overhauled its management of the electromagnetic spectrum.’ The aim of the law was to create an open market for spectrum so that radio frequencies could be bought and sold like any other factor of production. The law authorized the government to define long-term, tradeable property rights to radio channels, and to auction off these rights to the highest bidder. This radical experiment in resource privatization is of great significance to contemporary telecommunications policy debates. Wireless applications of computer and telecommunications technologies are growing in number and importance. The apparently limitless potential of radio technology, however, brings with it intensifying competition for space on the spectrum. Among government regulators who must ration this increasingly valuable electronic real estate, there is growing interest in the use of market
Sea urchin embryo mRNA sequences expressed in the nuclear RNA of adult tissues

The representation of message sequences in nuclear RNA was studied in sea urchin tissues which utilize these messages in their polysomes and in tissues which do not. A ^3H-labeled single-copy DNA tracer highly enriched for sequences complementary to blastula embryo mRNA was prepared. This tracer (mDNA) reacted to 78% with excess blastula mRNA, compared with 2.1% for the starting single-copy DNA. As expected from previous data, the mDNA reacted to only 12% with cytoplasmic RNA of adult intestine, since most embryo mRNA sequences are not detectable in this tissue. The mDNA reacted to the same extent, however, with nuclear RNA from either adult intestine, adult coelomocytes or gastrula embryos as with polysomal mRNA from blastula embryos. Thus virtually all of the blastula mRNA sequences are present in adult tissue nuclear RNAs, although most of these mRNA sequences are absent from cytoplasmic or polysomal RNA in the adult cells. The blastula mRNA sequences are present in heterogeneous nuclear RNAs at the same concentrations as are nuclear transcripts of most single-copy DNA sequences. Calculations based on the steady state concentration of structural gene transcripts in the embryo nuclei suggest that a majority of these molecules do not serve as message precursors.
Natural products from isnA-containing biosynthetic gene clusters recovered from the genomes of cultured and uncultured bacteria

The sequence of an isonitrile synthase, isnA, was used to search fully sequenced bacterial genomes as well as DNA extracted directly from environmental samples for operons that might use isnA homologues in the biosynthesis of new natural products. This manuscript describes the biosynthetic operons that were found and the compounds that were produced from the heterologous expression of these operons. The identification of new metabolites from the expression of this family of operons suggests that the activation of even simple, sequenced natural product biosynthetic gene clusters using standard E. coli protein expression vectors will be a rewarding and straightforward strategy for the discovery of structurally novel metabolites.
Synthesis of a fatty tetrahydroxyamide using peroxygenase from oat seeds

Prior work has shown that oat (Avena sativa) seeds are a rich source of lipase and peroxygenase. Partial epoxidation of the isobutyl amide derivative of α-linolenic acid with peroxygenase gave N-i-butyl-9, 10–15, 16-diepoxy-12(Z)-octadecenamide, a diepoxide product in which the epoxides reside only at the formerly external double bond positions. No amide hydrolysis occurred during the epoxidation procedure. Hydrolysis of the diepoxide gave N-i-butyl-9, 10,15,16-tetrahydroxy-12 (Z)-octadecenamide, a polyol derivative with relatively high polarity, potentially useful in developing new materials from fats and oils.
Characteristics of the near-bottom suspended sediment field over the continental shelf off northern California based on optical attenuation measurements during STRESS and SMILE

Abstract Time-series measurements of current velocity, optical attenuation and surface wave intensity obtained during the Sediment Transport Events on Shelves and Slopes (STRESS) experiments, combined with shipboard measurements of conductivity, temperature and optical attenuation obtained during the Shelf Mixed Layer Experiment (SMILE), provide a description of the sediment concentration field over the central and outer shelf off northern California. The questions addressed are: (1) existence and characteristics of bottom nepheloid layers and their relationship to bottom mixed layers; (2) characteristics of temporal fluctuations in sediment concentration and their relationship to waves and currents; (3) spatial scales over which suspended sediment concentrations vary horizontally; and (4) vertical distribution of suspended sediment.
Taste Interrelationships. II. Suprathreshold Solutions of Sucrose and Citric Acid

The effect of citric acid on the sweetness of sucrose solutions was determined by a highly trained panel using variations of two basic methods: single stimulus and paired stimuli. In the former presentation, evaluation of samples singly or in a series of 4 did not alter responses significantly. The binary method, requiring judges to indicate the direction and the degree to which members of a pair differed in sweetness, was slightly more sensitive than the single presentation, especially when one member of the pair within a set was kept constant. The following conclusions were drawn from all methods: (a) Citric acid, at concentrations ranging from 0.007 to 0.073%, depressed the sweetness of 0.5–20.0% sucrose. (b) The masking of sweetness by acid was greater at lower than at higher sucrose concentrations.
Some underwater sounds of the hippopotamus (hippopotamus amphibius)

Hippos have at least three categories of sounds they give underwater. The sounds are rarely audible on the surface, and there is little or no expiration of air when they are given. They include tonal whines that are associated with submissive behavior; a pulsed croak that is often heard when calves and sub‐adults are interacting underwater; and click‐like sounds that seem to be used for communication rather than echolocation. Spectrograms and discriptive statistics of the sounds are presented.
Though much is taken, much abides: the storied world of aging in a fictionalized retirement home.

This study explores one elderly author's accounts of life within a fictionalized retirement home to understand how meanings of age are storied within a collective community and offered as alternative narratives to the dominant discourse of aging in our society. An examination of the five novels in content and form reveals how older individuals, acting as embodied and social beings, can reclaim meanings of age through the stories they share. Rather than perpetuate a one-dimensional view of later life, octogenarian Effie Leland Wilder deliberately stories her novels with multifaceted accounts that acknowledge the positive and negative experiences of growing older. Narrative medicine and narrative gerontology position imagination as essential for recognizing, understanding, and empathizing with the lived realities of disparate individuals. This study offers an important understanding of the ways in which storytellers and story-listeners can make sense of aging through fictive stories and literary ways of kno...
A Performer-Oriented Approach to Systems Quality

The objective of this paper is to present a means of modeling the quality characteristics of a large class of systems. The proposed models depend upon the use of a state variable to describe the quality level at various points in the system and upon, transition matrices to describe the error-producing and error-detecting characteristics of the individual servers and machines that compose the system. Applications of the model to linear, cyclic, and branching systems are developed in detail. Ultimately the model may be used to optimize the number, type, and location of quality control components or to optimize the performance of systems operating under risk.
From the Mountains to the Plains: The Integration of the Lafofa Nuba In to Sudanese Society

From the Mountains to the Plains: The Integration of the Lafofa Nuba Into Sudanese Society. Leif O. Manger. Uppsala, Sweden: Scandinavian Institute of African Studies, 1994. 173 pp. glossary, bibliography, index.
NOTCH2 Mutations Cause Alagille Syndrome, a Heterogeneous Disorder of the Notch Signaling Pathway

Alagille syndrome (AGS) is caused by mutations in the gene for the Notch signaling pathway ligand Jagged1 (JAG1), which are found in 94% of patients. To identify the cause of disease in patients without JAG1 mutations, we screened 11 JAG1 mutation-negative probands with AGS for alterations in the gene for the Notch2 receptor (NOTCH2). We found NOTCH2 mutations segregating in two families and identified five affected individuals. Renal manifestations, a minor feature in AGS, were present in all the affected individuals. This demonstrates that AGS is a heterogeneous disorder and implicates NOTCH2 mutations in human disease.