cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Law School Game Changer: (Trans)formative Feedback

Many law professors have experienced the frustration of spending hours providing feedback to students only to find that the students fail to read it and, even when they do, they are not able to use it to enhance their understanding of the law. Amidst current concerns about the real value of a legal education, this Article seeks to identify ways in which law professors can take steps to create formative assessment opportunities that will enable students to become successful, self-regulated learners. Drawing upon educational psychology principles guiding best practices of formative assessment, this Article focuses on cutting-edge strategies for providing feedback that is more likely to be used by students, yet takes less time for professors to create. It sets out innovative yet simple ways to give feedback that transfers the responsibility for learning to students and enables them to improve their performance in law school, all while cultivating the skills necessary for success as a lawyer.
A MACHINE VISION SYSTEM USING IMMUNO-FLUORESCENCE MICROSCOPY FOR RAPID RECOGNITION OF SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM

The objective of this research was to develop an automated system using image processing and statistical modeling techniques to identify and enumerate bacteria on slides containing Salmonella typhimurium. Pictures of bacterial cells were acquired with a CCD camera attached to a motorized fluorescence microscope. A shape boundary modeling technique, based on the use of circular autoregressive model parameters, was used. A minimum-distance classifier was trained with ten images belonging to each shape class (rod shape and circle shape). Experimental results showed that the model parameters could be used as descriptors of shape boundaries detected in digitized binary images of bacterial cells. In spite of the advantages of human vision, the differences between the computer and a bacteriologist in recognizing and counting of Salmonella cells were less than 8%. The computer analyzed each image in approximately 5 s (a total of 2 h including sample preparation), while the bacteriologist spent an average of 1 min for each image.
Real time focusing through a perturbed multimode fiber

We developed a system capable of focusing light through a bending multimode fiber in 37 ms measuring the transmission matrix using a digital micromirror device driven by a field programmable gate array controller.
Application of Singular Value Decomposition Methods For Optimization of Fixed Parameters Involving Resolved Rotational Motion Rate Control In A Motion Simulator

The application of Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) methods to investigate motion control of a robotic simulator adds new insight into the optimization of fixed parameters within the device. These fixed parameters within the simulator can be optimized apriori before motion field simulation actually begins by the investigation of the SVD of the Jacobian matrix. Of particular interest is the minimum singular value which represents the ratio of end effector velocity to joint velocity in the direction most difficult to move. Using a Damped Least Squares approach, the sensitivity of the fixed parameters is studied with no weighting on the joint velocities (? = 0) compared to the situation when these joint velocities have a damping coefficient (?(t)≫ 0).
Silicon Nitride Boundary Lubrication: Effect of Phosphorus-Containing Organic Compounds

The boundary lubricating characteristics of phosphorus-containing compounds on silicon nitride, were studied using a ball-on-three-flat wear tester. The compounds were tested at 1% by weight in a pure paraffin oil under a mean pressure of about 2 GPa. The compounds are effective in reducing wear. Continuous surface films were observed in and around the wear scars for most of the phosphorus compounds. These, films are complex mixtures containing phosphorus and silicon. A detailed study on a zinc, dithiophosphate (ZDP) surface, film revealed high concentrations of zinc and phosphorus, but very little sulfur. This is in direct contrast to surface analysis results on steel systems in which sulfur-containing species are found on the worn surface. This suggests different chemical reaction pathways for phosphorus compounds on steel and silicon nitride surfaces. Presented at the 51st Annual Meeting in Cincinnati, Ohio May 19–23, 1996
Soil-Seed Bank Survival in Forests of the Southern United States

We evaluated the longevity of seeds of 12 common woody species buried in fresh condition in the forest floor at three forest locations in Mississippi and Louisiana. Seed samples of each species were retrieved annually for 5 years from each location. Germination and tetrazolium chloride staining tests were conducted on the samples to determine germinative capacity. When averaged across all species, seeds remained viable longer at the Alexandria, Louisiana site than at the two sites in Mississippi. Seeds of the 12 species varied widely in their response to burial. Some species, such as American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana L.), muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia Michx.), and sugarberry (Celtis laevigata Willd.), had relatively high germinative capacities (from 33 to 60 percent, depending on species) even after burial in the forest floor for 5 years, whereas other species, such as flowering dogwood (Cornus florida L.) and yaupon (Ilex vomitoria Ait.), had very low germinative capacities (less than 6 percent) by the end of the first year after burial. Species were classified into five groups based on their similarity of response.
Field Notes: News and Announcements in the Discipline

The Bulletin welcomes announcements, including call for papers, conference announcements, grant competitions, news items, and other informative updates on happenings in the discipline. Such announcements (like those below) will first appear on the Bulletin’s blog for timely distribution with occasional inclusion in issues of the Bulletin. There is no charge for announcements being included in Field Notes. Please email all announcements (of approximately 500 words) to the editors. Our editorial staff will also be watching for interesting items to include in this section of the Bulletin.
Reliability mechanisms for ADAMS

The goal of checkpointing in database management systems is to save database states on a separate secure device so that the database can be recovered when errors and failures occur. This paper presents a non-interfering checkpointing mechanism being developed for ADAMS. Instead of waiting for a consistent state to occur, our checkpointing approach constructs a state that would result by completing the transactions that are in progress when the global checkpoint begins. The checkpointing algorithm is executed concurrently with transaction activity while constructing a transaction-consistent checkpoint on disk, without requiring the database quiesce. This property of non-interference is highly desirable to real-time applications, where restricting transaction activity during the checkpointing operation is in many cases not feasible. Two main properties of this checkpointing algorithm are global consistency and reduced interference, both of which are crucial for achieving high availability.
Electroencephalographic study of the effects of tetrahydrocannabinols on sleep in the rat

Abstract This study examined the effects of tetrahydrocannabinols on sleep-wake states, and especially on paradoxical sleep (PS), in rats bearing chronically implanted EEG and EMG electrodes. Greatest attention was given to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), but Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol and marihuana extract distillate were also studied. These agents in i.p. doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg reduced PS in rats non-deprived (ND) of PS, caused an apparent dissociation of phasic and tonic events of PS in PS-deprived (PSD) rats, and tended to decrease slow-wave sleep and increase wakefulness. No PS rebound was detected during 5 post-drug days in ND rats. In PSD rats the normal PS rebound was replaced by a form of “incomplete PS” characterized by tonic hippocampal theta rhythm, absence of muscle activity and continuous cortical spindling in the absence of normal phasic activity. The effect of 10 mg/kg of Δ9-THC administered daily for 20 days was initially to suppress PS; this was followed by rapid development of tolerance to effects on both sleep and behavior. Partial tolerance remained upon retesting at the 13th withdrawal day. When Δ9-THC was withdrawn no PS rebound occurred in rats. In preliminary experiments in cats, single doses of Δ9-THC (10 mg/kg i.p.) caused a clear-cut inhibition of PS in both ND and PSD cats which was followed by a significant PS rebound on the first post-drug day.
Metal-alkyl bond dissociation energies for (CH3)2Zn, (C2H5)Zn, (CH3)2Cd, and (CH3)2Hg

Abstract RRKM theory is combined with a steady-state master equation approach to calculate unimolecular rate constants as a function of temperature and pressure for dissociation of (CH 3 ) 2 Zn, (C 2 H 5 ) 2 Zn, (CH 3 ) 2 Cd, and (CH 3 ) 2 Hg. The dissociation energy of the first metal-alkyl bond is treated as an adjustable parameter to fit earlier pyrolysis data. The master equation explicitly accounts for the pressure dependence of the measured rate constants and allows an accurate determination of the bond dissociation energies for the first and second metal-alkyl bonds of each compound. The second metal-alkyl bonds of the zinc and cadmium compounds are found to be stronger than previously believed, accounting for the observation of CH 3 Zn, C 2 H 5 Zn, and CH 3 Cd upon photodissociation of the corresponding dialkyls.
Mechanical properties of calcium- and strontium-substituted lanthanum chromite

Mechanical properties of acceptor (calcium and strontium)-substituted lanthanum chromites are reported as a function of composition, temperature and environment. The strength dependence on temperature for these perovskite conductors was found to depend on the acceptor type, with the calcium-substituted chromites showing a significant reduction in strength with increasing temperature, while the strength of strontium-substituted chromites was essentially invariant with temperature. The decrease in strength observed upon annealing in highly reducing environments was correlated to changes in lattice structure, stoichiometry and fracture morphology. A significant observation was the decrease in the cohesive strength of the grains relative to grain boundaries, beyond a critical oxygen vacancy concentration in the chromites. The structural changes in the chromite lattice upon reduction also resulted in decreased fracture toughness. © 1998 Chapman & Hall
Mice with an absent stress response are protected against ischemic renal injury

Inducible heat shock proteins (HSPs), regulated by heat shock factor-1 (HSF-1), protect against renal cell injury in vitro . To determine whether HSPs ameliorate ischemic renal injury in vivo , HSF-1 functional knockout mice (HSF-KO) were compared with wild-type mice following bilateral ischemic renal injury. Following injury, the kidneys of wild-type mice had the expected induction of HSP70 and HSP25; a response absent in the kidneys of HSF-KO mice. Baseline serum creatinine was equivalent between strains. Serum creatinine at 24h reflow in HSF-KO mice was significantly lower than that in the wild type. Histology showed similar tubule injury in both strains after ischemic renal injury but increased medullary vascular congestion in wild-type compared with HSF-KO mice. Flow cytometry of mononuclear cells isolated from kidneys showed no difference between strains in the number of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells in sham-operated animals. At 1h of reflow, CD4 + and CD8 + cells were doubled in the kidneys of wild-type but not HSF-KO mice. Foxp3 + T-regulatory cells were significantly more abundant in the kidneys of sham-operated HSF-KO than wild-type mice. Suppression of CD25 + Foxp3 + cells in HSF-KO kidneys with the anti-CD25 antibody PC61 reversed the protection against ischemic renal injury. Thus, HSF-KO mice are protected from ischemic renal injury by a mechanism that depends on an increase in the T-regulatory cells in the kidney associated with altered T-cell infiltration early in reflow. Hence, stress response activation may contribute to early injury by facilitating T-cell infiltration into ischemic kidney.
Sleep depth and fatigue: role of cellular inflammatory activation.

Individuals with underlying inflammation present with a high prevalence of non-specific co-morbid symptoms including sleep disturbance and fatigue. However, the association between cellular expression of proinflammatory cytokines, alterations of sleep depth and daytime fatigue has not been concurrently examined. In healthy adults (24 – 61 years old), evening levels of monocyte intracellular proinflammatory cytokine production were assessed prior to evaluation of polysomonographic sleep and measures of fatigue the following day. Stimulated monocyte production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), but not tumor necrosis factor α (TNF- α), was negatively associated with slow wave sleep (ΔR2 =.17, p=.029). In contrast, stimulated monocyte production of IL-6 was positively associated with rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep duration during the first sleep cycle (ΔR2 = .26, p<.01). Moreover, evening stimulated production of IL-6 was associated with fatigue the following day (ΔR2 = .17, p=.05). Mediation analyses showed that slow wave sleep, but not REM sleep duration, mediated the relationship between evening levels of IL-6 production and daytime fatigue. These results indicate that increases in stimulated monocyte production of IL6 may be associated with changes in sleep architecture with decreases in slow wave sleep and increases in REM sleep duration. Relative loss of slow wave sleep may be one pathway through which cellular inflammation leads to daytime fatigue.
Process models of governmental resource allocation and program evaluation

The General Revenue Sharing program poses problems for systematic evaluation that are similar to the problems posed by many public programs. Evaluation is very difficult when programs are not planned experiments and when program effects depend upon the discretionary responses of many individuals or organizations. The main difficulty is in knowing what would have happened without the program. Models of behavioral processes have an indispensable role in evaluating such programs. This paper considers the role of “process models” in program evaluation. It summarizs research on the impact of General Revenue Sharing on municipal fiscal behavior that used models of municipal resource allocation processes. Quasi-experimental research designs have been characterized as inherently inferior to experimental designs for program evaluation. There is no inherent inferiority. When we have good descriptive models of behavior, it is possible to evaluate programs rigorously without classic experimental research designs.
The Gaseous Microclimate of the Avian Nest During Incubation

Interest in the gaseous microclimate of the avian nest during incubition has greatly intensified in recent years because of the potentially important effects of micro climatic factors upon embryonic respiration and hydration. Few data are available describing levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen surrounding the eggs. What information is available, however suggests that in most species levels of CO2 and O2 may not differ importantly from that of the general atmosphere. The most likely exceptions to this generalization are tunnel nesting birds. Data quantifying water vapor in the nest are more abundant. Nest humidity varies substantially between species, but there are no apparent correlations between nest humidity and breeding habitit or ambient humidity. Based upon limited empirical data and simulations using a deterministic model it appears that adult regulation of egg dehydration by short-term modificttions of nest humidity may be neither necessary nor effective.
Integrating the Teaching of Basic Sciences, Clinical Sciences, and Biopsychosocial Issues

In this chapter, the author describes integrating the teaching of the basic sciences, clinical sciences, and biopsychosocial issues in medical education as part of the curricular reform efforts initiated by schools that participated in The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's project "Preparing: Physicians for the Future: Program in Medical Education." The author focuses on the approaches the eight schools adopted, the challenges they encountered, and the lessons they learned in attempting to implement more integrated curricula. Integration was promoted both within and among various components of medical education. For example, in some cases discipline-based courses in the basic sciences were replaced with interdisciplinary courses. Further, efforts were made both to bring clinical relevance to the basic sciences and to strengthen basic science in the clinical years. All the schools also promoted the study of the humanities and biopsychosocial sciences throughout the curriculum. The author describes problems encountered in these endeavors, resources needed to support interdisciplinary courses, the benefits of integration, and common lessons learned by the eight schools.
A review of: “Human Factors in Intelligent Transportation Systems”Edited by: Woodrow Barfield and Thomas A. Dingus Lawrence Erlbaum and Associates, 1998, 458 pp., ISBN 0-8058-1433-7

(1999). A review of: “Human Factors in Intelligent Transportation Systems”Edited by: Woodrow Barfield and Thomas A. Dingus Lawrence Erlbaum and Associates, 1998, 458 pp., ISBN 0-8058-1433-7. IIE Transactions: Vol. 31, No. 3, pp. 283-285.
Eukaryotic Selenoproteins and Selenoproteomes

Selenium is an essential trace element for which both beneficial and toxic effects in human health have been described. It is now clear that the importance of having adequate amounts of this micronutrient in the diet is primarily due to the fact that selenium is required for biosynthesis of selenocysteine, the twenty first naturally occurring amino acid in protein. In this review, we provide an overview of eukaryotic selenoproteins and selenoproteomes, which are sets of selenoproteins in these organisms. In eukaryotes, selenoproteins show a mosaic occurrence, with some organisms, such as vertebrates and algae, having dozens of these proteins, while other organisms, such as higher plants and fungi, having lost all selenoproteins during evolution. We also discuss selenoprotein functions and evolutionary trends in the use of these proteins in eukaryotes. Functional analysis of selenoproteins is critical for better understanding of the role of selenium in human health and disease.
A role for sleep disorders in pregnancy complications: challenges and opportunities

leep and sleeplike states have been identified in all 1-4 S mammalian species, other vertebrates such as birds, and invertebrates (eg, fruit fly or Drosophila melanogaster). The key features of sleep are that it is a reversible quiescent state, during which there is decreased sensitivity to environmental stimuli, and is homeostatically regulated. Conservation of sleep during evolution points to its importance in the survival of all species. Indeed, experimental sleep deprivation leads to death. The lowest morbidity/mortality for human beings occurs with sleep duration ranges from 7e9 hours per 24-hour period (Figure 1). “Sleep deficiency” includes: (1) sleep deprivation or insomnia; (2) sleep fragmentation due to abnormal breathing disorders or periodic leg movements; and (3) sleep circadian misalignment caused by shift work or other rhythm-related disorders. We spend one-third of our life sleeping; yet, fundamental questions as to the function of sleep and its regulation remain unanswered. Despite evidence that pregnancy is associated with sleep disturbances, the assessment of sleep quality and quantity during pregnancy and its consequences has not received the attention it deserves. Indeed, assessment of sleep has not been an integral part of prenatal care, even though many sleep disorders that affect pregnant women (eg, obstructive apnea) are amenable to treatment, and therapy can have benefits.
Quasiparticle-Injection-Induced Superconducting Weak Links

Superconducting weak links are studied in which the weak region is created by locally driving the superconductor out of equilibrium using an independent source of quasiparticles. The characteristics of these weak links can be varied electrically or optically at any temperature below ${T}_{c}$. A simple model which describes the dependence of weak-link critical current on quasiparticle-injection rate is presented.
MULTIPLE OVA IN THE FOLLICLES OF JUVENILE MONKEYS1,2

AS PART OF A PROGRAM of study of ovulation, it became desirable to study the effect of gonadotropic substances upon the ovaries of immature, adult and climacteric macaque monkeys. The present report is confined to a description of the effect of pregnancy mare serum gonadotropin,5 upon the ovaries of immature and adolescent monkeys, investigated grossly and microscopically. The injection of this gonadotropin induced overdevelopment of some follicles, and the degeneration of others. General ovarian vasodilatation was regularly observed. In general, the injurious effects of the gonadotropin on macaque ovaries, previously reported by Hartman (1) were confirmed. Certain specific and hitherto unreported effects related to follicular growth and ovum division within the follicles were observed. The gonadotropin appeared to activate intrafoUicular ova to divide into several (2–7) normal-sized ova.
Image Restoration Preprocessing for Low Light Auto-Focusing in Digital Cameras

The performance of passive auto-focus (AF) systems suffers when operating under low-lighting conditions due to the flatness of the sharpness function. In this paper, an adaptive noise reduction method prior to AF sharpness filter is introduced for the purpose of elevating the suppressed peak in the sharpness function . Experimental results show that the use of adaptive noise reduction preprocessing enables focusing at lower lux levels as compared to non-adaptive noise reduction preprocessing.
Magnesium uptake kinetics in loblolly pine seedlings

Recent studies have suggested that the growth of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) has declined in the southern United States and it has been hypothesized that foliar Mg deficiency may play an important role in the perceived decline. Quantitative nutrient uptake models such as the Barber-Cushman model have been used successfully to investigate nutrient uptake by crop species under a variety of field and experimental conditions and may provide one approach to evaluating this question. However, in order to use this approach it is necessary to develop, for the plant species and nutrient of interest, values for maximal nutrient influx rate at high solution concentrations (Imax), the solution concentration where net influx is 0.5 Imax (Km), and the nutrient concentration below which influx ceases (Cmin). As a first step in evaluating the potential of such an approach, two sets of experiments using established solution nutrient depletion techniques were used to define these values for loblolly pine seedlings 180, 240, 365, and 425 days in age. Observed Imax values for Mg range from 7.90E-8 to 1.29E-7 μmol cm−2 s−1 with younger seedlings having higher values. Values of Km for all seedling ages were quite similar ranging from 8.69 to 8.58E-3 μmol cm−3. Most importantly, the results of both experiments indicate that during a growth flush, seedlings will withdraw Mg from solution until the concentration is essentially zero (Cmin=∼0). During non-flush periods uptake rates appear to be greatly reduced. Therefore, efforts to model Mg uptake will need to take these differences as well as seedling age influences into consideration.
Electrodeposition and characterization of sacrificial copper-manganese alloy coatings: Part II. Structural, mechanical, and corrosion-resistance properties

The structure and properties of electrodeposited Mn-rich Cu-Mn coatings were studied in order to assess their potential to provide sacrificial galvanic protection to steels. It is found that a small amount of codeposited copper can stabilize the ductile as-deposited centered tetragonal γ′ phase against roomtemperature recrystallization to the stable bcc α phase. The time to transformation is increasingly delayed with increasing copper content. Phase transformation of crystalline films does not follow the Johnson-Mehl-Avrami-Kolmogorov equation for nucleation and growth transformation. Amorphous coatings do not show any structural transformation at room temperature. Nanomechanical and tribological measurements showed that Cu-Mn coatings have a lower friction coefficient than reference Cd coatings. Cu codeposition reduces the coating’s hardness and elastic modulus and increases the resistance to plastic penetration with respect to pure Mn. Cu-Mn coatings show a barrier or passive behavior under anodic polarization, while the sacrificial characteristics are still preserved. The corrosion appears uniform, and the formation of MnO2 and Cu2O upon anodic polarization may account for the good corrosion performance of the coatings.
Localization of newly synthesized proteins in regenerating newt limbs as determined by radioautographic localization of injected methionine-S35

Abstract Sites of amino acid incorporation within the regenerating forelimb of adult Triturus viridescens were determined by the radioautographic localization of injected methionine-S 35 . The limb regenerates studied ranged in age from 24 hours to 27 days. During the first few days after amputation the epidermis only produces an intense radioautographic reaction. The intensity of the reaction of the mesodermal tissues increases by the fifth day, when the periosteum of the transected humerus and the terminal portions of the cut muscles and nerves display a concentration of radioactivity. Fragments of sarcoplasm detached from the damaged muscles produce a strong reaction, suggesting that they are not moribund fragments. Those osteocytes apparently being released from the degenerating bone are highly radioactive. The intensity of the radioautographic reaction is generally even throughout the blastema during the growth phase. The radioautographs suggest that during the growth phase the peripheral nerve may exert an influence on protein synthesis within the undifferentiated blastemal cell. In later stages the more intense reduction of emulsion is produced by those cells undergoing differentation. The observations thus suggest that increased incorporation of amino acid is characteristic of the regenerate generally, and comprises a significant feature of dedifferentiating as well as differentiating cells.
The Protostar in B335: Near-Infrared Observations of the Class 0 Outflow

This Letter reports the results of very deep near-infrared imaging of the core of the star-forming Bok globule B335 in H, K, and 2.12 μm H2 ν=1-0 S(1) line emission. The outflow cavity associated with the class 0 protostar embedded in B335 and features in the blueshifted outflow lobe are detected in the deep K-band images, mostly by emission from shock-excited molecular hydrogen. Only extremely faint traces of the outflow are seen in the H band. Several knots of S(1) emission are found near the edge of the globule on either side of the outflow. The cloud core is outlined in absorption against diffuse H- and K-band flux in B335, presumably scattered starlight.
Ratio of S-nitrosohomocyst(e)ine to homocyst(e)ine or other thiols determines neurotoxicity in rat cerebrocortical cultures.

Abstract The physiological activity of many proteins can be regulated by S-nitrosylation or reaction of nitric oxide (NO)-related species with cysteine residues to produce S-nitrosoproteins (S-nitrosothiols). However, S-nitrosothiols, such as S-nitrosocysteine (SNOC) and S-nitrosohomocysteine (SNHC), can also be neurotoxic by generating NO which reacts with endogenous O 2 − to form peroxynitrite. Additionally, thiols such as cysteine and homocysteine can be neurotoxic by acting as N -methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) agonists. Paradoxically, we show here that millimolar thiol can protect from acute exposure to micromolar SNHC that is normally neurotoxic. This finding can be best explained by the fact that although S-nitrosothiols undergo homolytic cleavage to produce NO and subsequent neurotoxicity, adding thiol stabilizes S-nitrosothiols, effectively preventing this cleavage. Thus, the equilibrium between thiol and nitrosothiol determines outcome in studies of neuronal degeneration.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF ERYTHROCYTES IN MAMMALIAN FETAL LIVER

The fine structure of the erythrocyte during development in rabbit and human fetal liver has been studied. A morphologic description of representative erythropoietic cells and their relationship to the hepatic parenchyma is presented. Erythrocyte development was accompanied by a decrease in nuclear and cell size, fragmentation and eventual loss of nucleoli, and progressive clumping of chromatin at the nuclear margin. Mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi elements decreased in size or abundance and eventually disappeared. Ribosome concentration initially increased, but subsequently diminished as the cytoplasm increased in electron opacity, probably through the accumulation of hemoglobin. Similar dense material, interpreted to be hemoglobin, infiltrated the nuclear annuli and, in some cases, appeared to extend into the interchromatin regions. There was a marked decrease in the number of annuli of the nuclear envelope. Possible relationships between nucleus and cytoplasm and of RNA to hemoglobin synthesis are discussed. In rabbits, erythroid and hepatic cells were separated by a 200 to 400 A space limited by the undulatory membranes of the respective cells. Membranes of adjacent erythropoietic cells were parallel and more closely apposed (100 to 200 A). In humans, relationship between various cells exhibited wide variation. Ferritin particles were observed within forming and formed "rhopheocytotic" vesicles.
New biochemical approaches towards understanding the Parkinson's disease-associated kinase, LRRK2

Some 5 years ago, it was first discovered that mutations in the gene encoding LRRK2 (leucine-rich repeat protein kinase 2) are tightly linked with a subset of familial PD (Parkinson's disease). Before this genetic association, LRRK2 had never been investigated biochemically. Now it is of utmost importance to establish whether LRRK2 is a bona fide kinase in vitro and in vivo and to understand how mutations of LRRK2 lead to the specific loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra to cause PD. In spite of tremendous efforts in the research community, there is no consensus with regard to the magnitude of the enzymatic activity of LRRK2 mutant forms that segregate with PD owing, in part, to the lack of a highly sensitive kinase assay system, and it is still unclear whether an abnormal increase in kinase activity is responsible for LRRK2-associated PD. As described in this issue of the Biochemical Journal, Nichols et al.. have developed an extensive set of molecular tools, including an optimized peptide substrate for determining in vitro kinase activity of LRRK2, a set of kinase inhibitors that can be used to explore LRRK2 substrate specificity and biology, a much-needed murine-specific antibody for immunoprecipation, and efficient gene-silencing approaches. In the present commentary, we discuss some of the components of this new LRRK2 biochemical toolbox and how they can be used to better understand this enigmatic kinase.
Indicator expression directed by regulatory sequences of the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) gene: In vivo comparison of distinct GFAP‐lacZ transgenes

An increase in the expression of the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) gene by astrocytes appears to constitute a crucial component of the brain's response to injury because it is seen in many different species and features prominently in diverse neurological diseases. Previously, we have used a modified GFAP gene (C-339) to target the expression of beta-galactosidase (beta-gal) to astrocytes in transgenic mice (Mucke et al.; New Biol 3:465-474 1991). To determine to what extent the in vivo expression of GFAP-driven fusion genes is influenced by intragenic GFAP sequences, the E. coli lacZ reporter gene was either placed downstream of approximately 2 kb of murine GFAP 5' flanking region (C-259) or ligated into exon 1 of the entire murine GFAP gene (C-445). Transgenic mice expressing C-259 versus C-445 showed similar levels and distributions of beta-gal activity in their brains. Exclusion of intragenic GFAP sequences from the GFAP-lacZ fusion gene did not diminish injury-induced upmodulation of astroglial beta-gal expression or increase beta-gal expression in non-astrocytic brain cells. These results demonstrate that 2 kb of murine GFAP 5' flanking region is sufficient to restrict transgene expression primarily to astrocytes and to mediate injury-responsiveness in vivo. This sequence therefore constitutes a critical target for mediators of reactive astrocytosis. While acute penetrating brain injuries induced focal increases in beta-gal expression around the lesion sites in C-259, C-445, and C-339 transgenic mice, infection of C-339 transgenic mice with scrapie led to a widespread upmodulation of astroglial beta-gal expression. Hence, GFAP-lacZ transgenic mice can be used to monitor differential patterns of astroglial activation in vivo. These and related models should facilitate the assessment of strategies aimed at the in vivo manipulation of GFAP expression and astroglial activation.
Analysis of Lengthening of Modulated Repetitive Pulses

Pulse lengtheners are circuits which lengthen a series of pulses without changing the relative pulse amplitudes. An ideal "box-car" pulse lengthener produces flat-topped pulses prolonged throughout the interval between pulses. It has been shown by Ming-Chen Wang and G. E. Uhlenbeck that if a pulse with repetition frequency f 0 , periodically modulated by a signal with fundamental frequency f m , is put through the ideal pulse lengthener, the expression for the output pulse contains terms with frequencies |sf 0 +qf m | where s= 0, 1, 2,··· and q = ···,-2,-1,0,1,2,···. The amplitudes of terms with frequencies sf 0 (s=1, 2,···), however, are zero. The present paper contains a derivation of the result in more detail, and without the restriction to the ideal case. In the present derivation, the pulse form is taken initially to be quite general. Both a formula and graphs are then presented for the amplitudes associated with the output frequencies of the pulse lengthener, when the output pulse height decays exponentially with the time constant α, and lasts throughout the fraction β of the interval between pulses. This reduces further to the ideal case when α=0 and β=1. The frequencies sf 0 (s=1, 2,···) are ordinarily present, except in the ideal case. An example of a pulse-lengthening circuit is given.
Clostridium difficile colitis secondary to intravenous vancomycin.

Nearly every known antibiotic has been implicated as a cause ofClostridium difficile colitis. We report the first case resulting from monotherapy with intravenous vancomycin. The patient was on chronic hemodialysis and was treated with intravenous vancomycin for presumed cervical osteomyelitis. After 29 days of therapy he developed abdominal pain and diarrhea and his stool was found to contain bothC. difficile and cytotoxin. The patient responded with symptomatic and microbiological recovery to withdrawal of the drug and treatment with oral metronidazole. The prolonged elevation of serum vancomycin levels in patients with renal failure may predispose them to the development ofC. difficile colitis.
Structure property studies of polyester‐ and polyether‐based MDI–BD segmented polyurethanes: Effect of one‐ vs. two‐stage polymerization conditions

The effect of the polymerization method (one-or two-stage) on the morphology and properties of specific polyether- and polyester-based urethanes was studied. For the systems investigated, the polymerization technique was somewhat more influential on properties when the soft segment was a polyester than when it was a polyether. In the case of the polyester, a one-stage process yields materials with somewhat poorer physical properties than for a two-stage technique. This decrease in properties is attributed to a higher soft–hard segment interaction and to the higher mutual solubility of the segments that is brought about by a possible broader molecular weight distribution of hard segments produced in a one-stage reaction. A large difference in hard segment length distribution, however, was not expected since the MDI isocyanate moieties should display equal reactivity. In the case of polyether soft segments, any effect of the polymerization method appears to be largely offset by the higher incompatibility of the hard and soft components.
An analytical model for cache replacement policy performance

Due to the increasing gap between CPU and memory speed, cache performance plays an increasingly critical role in determining the overall performance of microprocessor systems. One of the important factors that a affect cache performance is the cache replacement policy. Despite the importance, current analytical cache performance models ignore the impact of cache replacement policies on cache performance. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first to propose an analytical model which predicts the performance of cache replacement policies. The input to our model is a simple circular sequence profiling of each application, which requires very little storage overhead. The output of the model is the predicted miss rates of an application under different replacement policies. The model is based on probability theory and utilizes Markov processes to compute each cache access' miss probability. The model realistic assumptions and relies solely on the statistical properties of the application, without relying on heuristics or rules of thumbs. The model's run time is less than 0.1 seconds, much lower than that of trace simulations. We validate the model by comparing the predicted miss rates of seventeen Spec2000 and NAS benchmark applications against miss rates obtained by detailed execution-driven simulations, across a range of different cache sizes, associativities, and four replacement policies, and show that the model is very accurate. The model's average prediction error is 1.41%,and there are only 14 out of 952 validation points in which the prediction errors are larger than 10%.
Traumatic Brain Injury in the Elderly: Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

The purpose of this review is to introduce geriatric practitioners to issues and challenges presented in the elderly after onset of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Issues discussed include the magnitude of TBI in the elderly, mechanisms of onset, issues specific to both acute and rehabilitation care for the elderly with TBI, and specific physical and behavioral manifestations of TBI that may need to be addressed on an inpatient or outpatient basis. General guidelines are provided for the diagnosis and treatment of older individuals who have TBI, with specific clinical scenarios illustrating key points.
Effects of heat release on the near field flow structure of hydrogen jet diffusion flames

An experimental investigation was conducted on the effects of heat release on the near field flow structure of co-flowing hydrogen/inert gas turbulent jet diffusion flames. The reaction zones were imaged using laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) of the OH radical, while the jet fluid was visualized using LIF of acetone vapor seeded into the fuel stream. Both reacting and nonreacting conditions were studied at jet Reynolds numbers ranging from 2,500 to 50,000. The fuel jet was diluted with nitrogen or helium in order to study the effect of diluent mass fraction and jet/co-flow density ratio. In agreement with previous investigations, organized vortical structures were observed in the near field of the jet for both the reacting and nonreacting conditions. For all of the Reynolds numbers and dilution levels considered, the flame was characterized by a thin reaction zone which was located outside of the turbulent regions and was not severely perturbed by the vortical structures. The proximity of the reaction zone to the turbulence varied depending on the diluent fraction and diluent molecular weight. Evidence is provided that the well documented lengthening of the potential core under reacting conditions is primarily due to the density ratio which reduces the growth rate of the jet shear layer. Furthermore, the best indicator of the degree of shear layer/flame interaction was found to be the density ratio, not the stoichiometric mixture fraction.
High-Performance Two-Dimensional Finite Field Multiplication and Exponentiation for Cryptographic Applications

Finite field arithmetic operations have been traditionally used in different applications ranging from error control coding to cryptographic computations. Among these computations are normal basis multiplications and exponentiations which are utilized in efficient applications due to their advantageous characteristics and the fact that squaring (and subsequent powering by two) of elements can be obtained with no hardware complexity. In this paper, we present 2-D decomposition systolic-oriented algorithms to develop systolic structures for digit-level Gaussian normal basis multiplication and exponentiation over $ {GF}({2}^{m})$ . The proposed high-performance architectures are suitable for a number of applications, e.g., architectures for elliptic curve Diffie–Hellman key agreement scheme in cryptography. The results of the benchmark of efficiency, performance, and implementation metrics of such architectures through a 65-nm application-specific integrated circuit platform confirm high-performance structures for the multiplication and exponentiation architectures presented in this paper are suitable for high-speed architectures, including cryptographic applications.
Update on disease-modifying treatments for multiple sclerosis.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this review is to discuss the selection and use of disease- modifying treatments for patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods PubMed was searched (1966–2014) using the terms multiple sclerosis, treatment, interferon, glatiramer acetate, dimethyl fumarate, fingolimod, teriflunomide, natalizumab, rituximab , and alemtuzumab . Findings MS is a chronic neurological disorder that can cause a substantial degree of disability. Because of its usual onset in young adults, patients may require treatment for several decades. Currently available agents include platform injectable therapies, newer oral agents, and second-line monoclonal antibody treatments. Treatment decisions have become more complex with the introduction of new approaches, and a major goal is to balance perceived efficacy and tolerability in a specific patient with the relative impact of disease activity and adverse events on quality of life. Here the options for disease-modifying treatments for relapsing forms of MS are reviewed, and current and future challenges are discussed. Implications An evidence-based approach can be used for the selection of disease-modifying treatments based on disease phenotype and severity, adverse events, and perceived efficacy.
TAXONOMIC REVIEW OF THE RHYACIONIA FRUSTRANA GROUP OF PINE-TIP MOTHS, WITH DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES (OLETHREUTIDAE)

The Rhyacionia frustrana group of pine-tip moths consists of at least three species: true R . frustrana (Comstock), which occurs from Central America and northern Florida north to Missouri and Massachusetts; R . sonia n. sp., present from southern Maine west to southern Manitoba; and R . bushnelli Busck, which occurs from New Mexico north to Nebraska and eastern Montana. Adults of all three species are superficially identical. A lectotype is designated to establish the identity of R . frustrana , and R . sonia is described as new to science on the basis of markedly differing genitalia. R . bushnelli , long regarded as a domestic introduction of R . frustrana , seems more likely a distinct species endemic to the western plains because of its differing overwintering habit and size.
Being good by doing good: Daily eudaimonic activity and well-being

Abstract Eudaimonic theories of well-being assert the importance of achieving one’s full potential through engaging in inherently meaningful endeavors. In two daily diary studies, we assessed whether reports of engagement in behaviors representative of eudaimonic theories were associated with well-being. We also examined whether eudaimonic behaviors were more strongly related to well-being than behaviors directed toward obtaining pleasure or material goods. In both studies, eudaimonic behaviors had consistently stronger relations to well-being than hedonic behaviors. Data also provided support for a temporal sequence in which eudaimonic behaviors were related to greater well-being the next day. Overall, our results suggest that “doing good” may be an important avenue by which people create meaningful and satisfying lives.
When Does Computational Imaging Improve Performance

A number of computational imaging techniques are introduced to improve image quality by increasing light throughput. These techniques use optical coding to measure a stronger signal level. However, the performance of these techniques is limited by the decoding step, which amplifies noise. Although it is well understood that optical coding can increase performance at low light levels, little is known about the quantitative performance advantage of computational imaging in general settings. In this paper, we derive the performance bounds for various computational imaging techniques. We then discuss the implications of these bounds for several real-world scenarios (e.g., illumination conditions, scene properties, and sensor noise characteristics). Our results show that computational imaging techniques do not provide a significant performance advantage when imaging with illumination that is brighter than typical daylight. These results can be readily used by practitioners to design the most suitable imaging systems given the application at hand.
Preparation of Cu Nanoclusters within Dendrimer Templates

Abstract : A new template synthesis strategy for preparing Cu nanoclusters within dendrimer 'nanoreactors' is demonstrated. Hydroxyl-terminated polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers of generation higher than 2 act as monodispersed templates as well as stabilizers for nanocluster synthesis. Cu(2+) ions are first quantitatively sorbed into the dendrimer via a strong coordinative interaction with interior amines and then chemically reduced to yield Cu nanoclusters. The nanoclusters are composed of a well-defined number of atoms. Importantly, cluster size can be controlled by varying the size of the host dendrimer nanoreactor (16-atom Cu cluster in G4 and 64-atom Cu cluster in G6 dendrimers). The clusters remain trapped within the dendrimers for extended periods of time, do not agglomerate, and do not precipitate. The clusters can also be oxidized to yield dendrimer-encapsulated Cu(2+).
CCC Sample Cutting for Isolation of Prenylated Phenolics from Hops

Abstract One of the most potent estrogenic substances from the plant kingdom is the prenylated flavanone, 8‐prenylnaringenin (8PN), present in hops (Humulus lupulus L., Cannabaceae) in low (<10 ppm) concentrations. The prenylated chalcone desmethylxanthohumol (DMX), which is also present in this plant material, serves as a precursor to 8PN. A method for the preparative isolation of these and related bioactive phytochemicals has been developed that involves the use of multiple chromatographic techniques including complementary countercurrent chromatography (CCC) solvent systems. This paper describes the isolation of 8PN and DMX employing “sample‐cutting CCC”. The Hexanes‐EtOAc‐MeOH‐H2O (HEMWat) solvent systems found to be effective for isolation of prenylated phenolics from hops range from HEMWat 8‐2‐8‐2 for diprenylxanthohumol and 6,8‐diprenylnaringenin, to HEMWat 6‐4‐6‐4 for xanthohumol (XH), 6PN and 8PN, to HEMWat 5‐5‐5‐5 for DMX, hydroxylated derivatives of XH, and humulinones.