cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Practical considerations in the use of tacrolimus for allogeneic marrow transplantation.

Tacrolimus has been shown to be more effective than cyclosporine for prevention of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). A number of transplant centers have therefore adopted tacrolimus as standard prophylaxis, but with additional experience, current management of tacrolimus differs from that in the clinical studies. Therefore, a consensus conference was convened to assess the current practices. For prevention of GVHD, conference participants recommended administering tacrolimus at 0.03 mg/kg/day (by lean body weight) i.v. by continuous infusion from day -1 or -2 pretransplant, with day -2 used especially for pediatric patients. Therapeutic drug monitoring was considered essential in the management of patients on tacrolimus. The consensus target range for the whole blood concentration was 10-20 ng/ml. Doses were modified for blood levels outside the target range or for nephrotoxicity, and tacrolimus was discontinued for intolerable tremor, hemolytic uremic syndrome, leukoencephalopathy or other serious toxicity. Tacrolimus was employed most frequently in combination with minimethotrexate (5 mg/m 2 i.v. days 1, 3, 6 and 11). Tapering was individualized according to center practice. No patient category was excluded from use of tacrolimus based on age, extent of disease, patient-donor histocompatibility or stem cell source. Tacrolimus was also used successfully for treatment of chronic GVHD. The responsiveness of steroid-refractory acute GVHD was marginal, so it was deemed more prudent to use tacrolimus for prophylaxis instead.
Effects of higher-order multipoles on the performance of a two-plate quadrupole ion trap mass analyzer

Abstract We report on the effects of varying higher-order multipole components on the performance of a novel radiofrequency quadrupole ion-trap mass analyzer, named the planar Paul trap. The device consists of two parallel ceramic plates, the opposing surfaces of which are lithographically imprinted with 24 concentric metal rings. Using this device, the magnitude and sign of different multipole components, including octopole and dodecapole, can be independently adjusted through altering the voltages applied to each ring. This study presents a systematic investigation of the effects of the octopole and dodecapole field components on the mass resolution and signal intensity of the planar Paul trap. Also, the effect of dipole amplitude and scan speed under both forward and reverse scan modes have been investigated for various combinations of octopole and dodecapole. A trapping field in which the magnitudes of the octopole and dodecapole are, respectively, set to 0% and +8% of the magnitude of the quadrupole yields the highest mass resolution under the conditions studied. A small threshold voltage for dipole resonance ejection is observed for positive octopole, and to a lesser extent for positive dodecapole, but not for negative poles. When both octopole and dodecapole are negative, a reverse scan produces higher resolution, but this effect is not observed when only one of the components is negative.
Inquiring into Inquiry: Two Opposing Views

For what specific purposes might we wish to limit inquiry? Do we wish to curb only the means or even the ends of inquiry? Let me advance some suggestions. One is the preservation of human dignity. We should not do experiments that involuntarily make of man a means rather than an end. The ethics of human experimentation are, I think, now rather well accepted, even though it must be recognized that such restraints blunt pure inquiry.
Oxythermal habitat parameters and identifying cisco refuge lakes in Minnesota under future climate scenarios using variable benchmark periods

Abstract Fish habitat in lakes is strongly constrained by water temperature (T) and available dissolved oxygen (DO). With climate warming both of these water quality parameters will change. A fish habitat simulation model was developed to calculate an oxythermal habitat variable, TDO3, i.e. water temperature at 3 mg/L of DO, from simulated daily T and DO profiles and used to determine potential refuge lakes for lake herring or cisco (Coregonus artedi) in Minnesota. Daily T and DO profiles were simulated using a deterministic, unsteady, one-dimensional (vertical) year-round lake water quality model (MINLAKE2010) that was developed specifically for transparent deep lakes. Profiles for thirty Minnesota cisco lakes were simulated with the MINLAKE2010 model using recorded (1961–2008) weather data or projected future climate scenarios (CGCM 3.1 and MIROC 3.2) as model input. The average of daily TDO3 values (called ATDO3VB) over a 31-day sliding or variable benchmark period (VB), was first calculated from daily TDO3 values. The annual maximum of ATDO3VB was retained for each simulated lake and year, and the average of 47 ATDO3VB values (called AvgATD3VB) obtained for the 1962–2008 simulation period was compared to oxythermal stress criteria for cisco determined from the analysis of field data. Isopleths of AvgATD3VB were interpolated for the 30 simulated lakes on a plot of Secchi depth vs. lake geometry ratio used as indicators of trophic state and summer mixing conditions, respectively. Marking the 620 Minnesota lakes with identified cisco populations on the plot of AvgATD3VB allowed to partition the 620 lakes into the three tiers depending on where they fell between the isopleths: lakes with AvgATD3VB ≤ 11 °C (Tier 1 lakes) were selected to be most suitable for cisco; lakes with 11 °C 17 °C (Tier 3 lakes) would support cisco only at a reduced probability of occurrence or not at all. About 160 existing cisco lakes were thus projected to be suitable refuge lakes (Tier 1 plus Tier 2) under the two future climate scenarios. The remaining lakes were projected to loose their cisco supporting ability. The methodology to identify the refuge lakes was applied to a cisco kill that occurred in 18 cisco lakes in Minnesota in the hot summer of 2006, and was able to identify the majority of these lakes as non-refuge lakes.
Design of mixed fuel for heterogeneous reburning

Abstract Recent study of heterogeneous reburning suggests effective NO reduction requires an adequate carbon source and a pool of catalysts that reduces not only NO, but also the reaction intermediate HCN [Chen WY and Tang L. Variables, kinetics and mechanisms of heterogeneous reburning. AIChE J 2001;47:2781-2797]. The current work demonstrates that ashes from lignite-fired power plants contain these desirable catalytic ingredients. Their reactivity is slightly lower than that of ashes produced in laboratory at lower temperatures, probably due to the formation of crystalline structure. The current work also demonstrates that for the power plants remote from lignite resources, ashes from biomass-fired grate boilers are a remarkably effective and economical substitute. About 85% of NO reduction efficiency appears achievable at a stoichiometric ratio 0.945. The raw-material cost estimates of the mixed-fuel technology suggest that it could be competitive with selective catalytic reduction (SCR).
Experimental model of trigger finger through A1 pulley constriction in a human cadaveric hand: a pilot study

Purpose Although it can be reasonably assumed that trigger digits occur as the result of a size mismatch in the pulley-tendon system, it is unclear whether locking, histological changes, and nodule formation occur owing to an intrinsically too small pulley or an enlarged digital flexor tendon. Our purposes in this feasibility study were to (1) create a model of trigger digit by pulley constriction in nonpreserved human tissue, (2) measure the change in work of flexion as the force of pulley constriction increased, (3) compare the work of flexion between nontriggering and triggering conditions, and (4) determine whether triggering can occur at the A2, A3, and A4 pulleys under similar conditions. Methods Using a tensiometer, we studied the work of flexion in 4 fingers (thumb, index, middle, and ring) in a human cadaveric hand. The load of flexion was measured as the A1 to A4 pulleys were incrementally constricted in order to induce triggering. Work of flexion was analyzed for differences among trial conditions. Results Triggering was successfully induced in all 4 digits through constriction of the A1 pulley. No triggering occurred in any of the A2, A3, or A4 pulley systems in this model. Conclusions We successfully created a trigger model in a human cadaveric hand. Our results demonstrate that the A1 pulley can cause triggering from manual constriction of the pulley alone. Clinical relevance A trigger model such as this may allow investigations of pathophysiology, and this may result in novel treatment strategies and modalities.
Urethral distortion after placement of synthetic mid urethral sling.

Purpose: We retrospectively compared preoperative characteristics in patients with new onset lower urinary tract symptoms after receiving a mid urethral sling who did (group 1) and did not (group 2) have radiographically confirmed urethral distortion during voiding.Materials and Methods: After receiving institutional review board approval we reviewed the charts of patients who underwent mid urethral sling excision for new onset lower urinary tract symptoms between January 2003 and July 2009. We collected demographic and questionnaire data, including the Urogenital Distress Inventory, Incontinence Impact Questionnaire and visual analog scale (score 0 to 10) for quality of life, and preoperative urodynamics data, including maximum flow, detrusor pressure at maximum flow and post-void residual urine. Lateral voiding cystourethrogram was done with the patient standing.Results: Of 87 operable patients 23 were excluded from analysis due to lack of a voiding cystourethrogram (16) or of the voiding phase on voidi...
Gender wars in Jamaica

Gender antagonism is a complex issue produced within a context of power. In this paper I will argue that in Jamaica, the colonial legacy and global economy have conjoined to create a socio‐economic environment that fosters conflict between women and men. Poverty, which has been exacerbated during the past two decades of economic restructuring, and the tradition of women's economic activity, often inhibit the fulfillment of gender roles as prescribed within the dominant ideology. Conflict occurs as each gender formulates its expectations of the other within the breadwinner/homemaker model. Yet, Jamaican women and men are not simply passive recipients of the dominant gender ideology; they negotiate gender behavior and actively manipulate dominant models. Thus, this analysis of gender behavior provides an example of the agency of the poor. The data in this paper are based on participant observation, in‐depth interviews, and content analysis.
Existence of a critical point for the infinite divisibility of squares of Gaussian vectors in $R^2$ with non--zero mean

Let $G=(G_{1},G_{2})$ be a Gaussian vector in $R^{2}$ with $E(G_{1}G_{2})\ne 0$. Let $c_{1},c_{2}\in R^{1}$. A necessary and sufficient condition for the vector $((G_{1}+c_{1}\alpha )^{2},(G_{2}+c_{2}\alpha )^{2})$ to be infinitely divisible for all $\alpha \in R^{1}$ is that $$ \Gamma_{i,i}\ge \frac{c_{i}}{c_{j}}\Gamma_{i,j}>0\qquad\forall\,1\le i\ne j\le 2.\qquad(0.1) $$ In this paper we show that when (0.1) does not hold there exists an $0 \alpha _{0}$.
The Influence of Anisotropic Mössbauer Effect on Magnetic Hyperfine Splittings in Polycrystalline Materials

The influence of lattice anisotropy of the recoil-free factor on the intensity of lines observed in recoil-free spectra in polycrystalline materials should be observable for magnetic hyperfine interactions, as well as in the case, previously discussed, of electric quadrupole interactions (Karyagin effect). The modification of line intensities has been calculated for some simple cases.
Nonlocal-density-functional approximation for exchange and correlation in semiconductors

Using the weighted density approximation for the exchange-correlation energy, the band-structure and bulk structural properties of the prototypical semiconductors Si and Ge have been systematically studied. The weighted density approximation is based on an improved description of the exchange-correlation hole that explicitly accounts for the inhomogeneous charge density found in real materials. We find that the approximation as proposed is inadequate for the case of semiconductors where charge inhomogeneity is intimately connected to a gap in the excitation spectrum with consequent qualitative changes in screening. We use a simple extension of the weighted density approximation which takes account of semiconductor screening. With this functional, we find substantial improvement in the calculated minimum gap over the results of the usual local-density approximation as compared to experiment. However, the direct gaps are not significantly improved. Calculated structural properties are, moreover, found to be in excellent agreement with experiment. By way of contrast, the weighted density approximation implemented with metallic screening gives a smaller change in the band structure and more importantly, substantially poorer calculated structural properties. A discussion of the qualitative differences between the weighted density approximation and the usual local-density approximation for covalently bonded semiconductors is presented.
Porter's ‘competitive advantage of nations’: An assessment

Porter's Competitive Advantage of Nations is an important book which bridges the gap between strategic management and international economics while contributing substantially to both. Porter's analysis of the impact of national environment on international competitive performance demonstrates the potential for the theory of competitive strategy to rescue international economics from its slide into refined irrelevance, while simultaneously broadening the scope of the theory of competitive strategy to encompass both the international dimension and the dynamic context of competition. Nevertheless, the breadth and relevance of Porter's analysis have been achieved at the expense of precision and determinancy. Concepts are often ill defined, theoretical relationships poorly specified, and empirical data chosen selectively and interpreted subjectively.
Incremental Construction of Neighborhood Graphs for Nonlinear Dimensionality Reduction

Most nonlinear data embedding methods use bottom-up approaches for capturing underlying structures of data distributed as points on nonlinear manifolds in high dimensional spaces. These methods usually start by designating neighbor points to each point. Neighbor points have to be designated in such a way that the constructed neighborhood graph is connected so that the data can be projected to a single global coordinate system. In this paper, we present an incremental method for updating neighborhood graphs. The method guarantees k-edge-connectivity of the constructed neighborhood graph. Together with incremental approaches for geodesic distance estimation and multidimensional scaling, our method enables incremental embedding of high dimensional data streams. The method works even when the data are under-sampled or non-uniformly distributed. It has important applications in the processing of data streams and multimedia data.
Salinity trends in Louisiana estuaries

If long-term trends in the character of the estuarine salinity field are contributing to land-loss in coastal Louisiana, then evidence of the presence of these trends may exist in historical salinity records. Nonparametric tests for the presence of a trend in the time series of various salinity statistics were performed. The results appear to be strongly influenced by climatological variations of decadal scale. Statistically significant trends were found at many stations. Both increasing and decreasing trends occurred with no apparent underlying spatial pattern. The observed changes during the time covered by the available records were generally too small to be lethal to the dominant marsh plants.
Mobility in a large-scale WiFi network: from syslog events to mobile user sessions

Network management logs from a campus 802.11 network of nearly 4,500 ARUBA access points at the University of Massachusetts Amherst are presented. The processing steps to transform the logs from a series of individual network events, into user session trajectories are described and preliminary results are shown based on the user mobility characteristics. We plan to release a differentially private set of user trajectories for use by the research community which we hope can provide valuable insights into user mobility characterization.
Amorphous-nanocrystalline lead titanate thin films for dielectric energy storage

Many high permittivity crystalline dielectric thin films have a low breakdown strength, which is unfavorable for dielectric energy storage devices. In contrast, many amorphous linear dielectrics have much lower permittivities but larger breakdown strengths. Here, composite thin films with nanocrystalline particles in an amorphous matrix were explored to increase the stored energy density of dielectrics. For this purpose, thin films of lead-rich lead titanate, Pb1.1TiO3.1, were fabricated via chemical solution deposition and heat-treated at temperatures <= 400 degrees C. Transmission electron microscopy indicated the presence of dense lead oxide nanocrystals in an amorphous lead titanate network. The films exhibit a relative permittivity of 32.6 and a low dielectric loss of 0.0008. The leakage current is approximately 10(-8)A/cm(2), with a DC breakdown strength between 2 and 3MV/cm. The 1 kHz breakdown strength exceeds 5MV/cm. At an electric field of 5MV/cm and a measurement frequency of 1 kHz, the maximum in energy storage density was similar to 28 J/cm(3). These properties suggest that nanocomposite Pb1.1TiO3.1 films may be a suitable candidate for integration into energy storage devices. (C)
A look at spatial abilities in undergraduate women science majors

Contemporary investigations indicate that men generally perform significantly better in tasks involving visuo-spatial awareness than do women. Researchers have attempted to explain this difference through several hypotheses but as yet the reason for the dimorphism has not been established. Further, contemporary studies have indicated that enhancement of mental image formation and manipulation is possible when students are subjected to carefully designed spatial interventions. Present research was conducted to see if women in the sciences were as spatial perceptively accurate as their male counterparts. The researcher also was interested to find if the women that received the intervention excercises improved in their visuo-spatial awareness as rapidly as their male counterparts. The study was conducted on science majors at a suburban two year college. The population was randomly divided into groups (experimental, placebo, and control) each containing approximately the same number of men and women. All groups were given a battery of spatial perception tests (Ekstrom et al, 1976) at the onset of the winter semester and a second version of the battery at the conclusion of the semester. An analysis of variance followed by Scheffe contrasts were run on the results. The statistics revealed that the experimental group significantly outperformed the nonexperimental groups on the tests. When the differences between the mean scores for the women in the experimental group were statistically compared to those of the men in the experimental group the women were improving at a more rapid rate. Many women have the capacity to develop visuo-spatial aptitude and although they may start out behind men in spatial ability, they learn quickly and often catch up to the men's level when given meaningful visuo-spatial interventions.
Physiologic and cardiac roles of β-arrestins

β-arrestin1 and β-arrestin2 were initially identified by sequence homology to visual arrestins and by their ability to bind to and inactivate signaling of the beta-2-adrenergic receptor in a process known as desensitization. While the role of β-arrestins in desensitization has been known for some time, more recent evidence has revealed that β-arrestins are multifunctional scaffolding proteins that are involved in numerous aspects of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling. Interestingly, exciting new data shows that β-arrestins can mediate signaling in their own right independent of classical second messenger mediated signaling, and that this β-arrestin-mediated signaling may be cardioprotective. Identifying novel ligands for GPCRs that can block G protein-mediated signaling while simultaneously promoting β-arrestin-mediated signaling could provide powerful new therapies for cardiac disease.
Enhancing Spatial Awareness with Tactile cues in a Virtual Environment

Situation awareness is a critical component to many complex military tasks, where operators must be aware of the situation around them as it unfolds in real-time. Warfighters involved in military operations in urban terrain (MOUT) operate in a dynamic, highly stressful environment, where specific knowledge, such as spatial awareness of potential enemy location within a given space is required. Virtual training systems are one method that may be used to train soldiers, as they offer multimodal displays that expose trainees to situations/conditions that are otherwise expensive and dangerous for repeated live training (e.g., live bullets; injuries). This study examined the benefits of incorporating haptic cues into a VE training environment to enhance spatial awareness across successive training to examine learning effects associated with haptic training cues.
The effects of forming gas anneal on the electrical characteristics of ir-electroded BST thin film capacitors

Abstract The effect of various temperature nitrogen anneals prior to top electrode deposition on the ability of Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3 (BST) thin-film capacitors with both Ir and Pt top electrodes to withstand hydrogen damage was investigated. Experimental results show that samples that underwent a 750 °C N2 pre-top electrode anneal exhibited the lowest leakage current density at positive bias for both Ir- and Pt-electroded devices after forming gas anneal. It was also found that DRAM polarization values decreased slightly after forming gas anneal. Also, a post-top electrode deposition 550°C O2 anneal improved both electrical characteristics (lowered leakage and increased DRAM polarization) of these devices. Complete recovery of the leakage level prior to hydrogen damage was obtained after a 550°C N2 recovery anneal for some devices independent of the pre-top electrode anneal. Ir- and Pt-electroded BST (40nm) capacitors have been shown to meet the 1 giga-bit DRAM leakage current requirement of 10−8 A/cm2 at 1.7 V...
Left ventricular function in coronary artery disease. Evaluation of slope of end-systolic pressure-volume line (Emax) and ratio of peak systolic pressure to end-systolic volume (P/Ves).

Left ventricular function was assessed by measurement of systolic pressure-volume variables and ejection fraction in seven normal subjects (group I), five patients with coronary artery disease and normal symmetric left ventricular wall motion (group II) and eight patients with remote myocardial infarction and segmental akinesia (group III). Left ventricular volumes were obtained from right anterior oblique ventriculograms and pressures from catheter-tip micromanometer (14 patients) or fluid-filled catheters (6 patients) at two different systolic loads. P/Ves was calculated as the ratio of peak systolic pressure (P) to end-systolic volume (Ves) at rest, Emaxas the slope of the end-systolic pressure volume line constructed at two systolic loads, and Vo as the volume axis intercept of this line. Emaxwas significantly (p In conclusion, Emaxwas the only systolic pressure-volume variable capable of separating normal from abnormal left ventricular function. It appears to be more sensitive than the ejection fraction. The P/Vesratio may be more useful as a measure of acute changes in contractility in the same patient.
Achieving scalability in OLAP materialized view selection

The goal of on-line analytical processing (OLAP) is to quickly answer queries from large amounts of data residing in a data warehouse. Materialized view selection is an optimization problem encountered in OLAP systems. Published work on the problem of materialized view selection presents solutions scalable in the number of possible views. However, the number of possible views is exponential relative to the number of database dimensions. A truly scalable solution must be polynomial time relative to the number of dimensions. We present such a solution, our Polynomial Greedy Algorithm. Complexity analysis proves scalability, and a performance study verifies the result. Empirical evidence demonstrates benefits close to existing algorithms. We conclude the Polynomial Greedy Algorithm functions effectively where existing algorithms fail dramatically.
Revealing the neural networks associated with processing of natural social interaction and the related effects of actor-orientation and face-visibility

Abstract Understanding the intentions and desires of those around us is vital for adapting to a dynamic social environment. In this paper, a novel event-related functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) paradigm with dynamic and natural stimuli (2 s video clips) was developed to directly examine the neural networks associated with processing of gestures with social intent as compared to nonsocial intent. When comparing social to nonsocial gestures, increased activation in both the mentalizing (or theory of mind) and amygdala networks was found. As a secondary aim, a factor of actor-orientation was included in the paradigm to examine how the neural mechanisms differ with respect to personal engagement during a social interaction versus passively observing an interaction. Activity in the lateral occipital cortex and precentral gyrus was found sensitive to actor-orientation during social interactions. Lastly, by manipulating face-visibility we tested whether facial information alone is the primary driver of neural activation differences observed between social and nonsocial gestures. We discovered that activity in the posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS) and fusiform gyrus (FFG) was partially driven by observing facial expressions during social gestures. Altogether, using multiple factors associated with processing of natural social interaction, we conceptually advance our understanding of how social stimuli is processed in the brain and discuss the application of this paradigm to clinical populations where atypical social cognition is manifested as a key symptom.
Statistical measure of quality in Wikipedia

Wikipedia is commonly viewed as the main online encyclopedia. Its content quality, however, has often been questioned due to the open nature of its editing model. A high--quality contribution by an expert may be followed by a low-quality contribution made by an amateur or a vandal; therefore the quality of each article may fluctuate over time as it goes through iterations of edits by different users. With the increasing use of Wikipedia, the need for a reliable assessment of the quality of the content is also rising. In this study, we model the evolution of content quality in Wikipedia articles in order to estimate the fraction of time during which articles retain high-quality status. To evaluate the model, we assess the quality of Wikipedia's featured and non-featured articles. We show how the model reproduces consistent results with what is expected. As a case study, we use the model in a CalSWIM mashup the content of which is taken from both highly reliable sources and Wikipedia, which may be less so. Integrating CalSWIM with a trust management system enables it to use not only recency but also quality as its criteria, and thus filter out vandalized or poor-quality content.
Response of douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) to uraniferous groundwater in a small glaciated drainage, Northeastern Washington State

Abstract Douglas fir trees and associated soils were sampled from the slopes of a small (∼ 4 km2) drainage basin in northeastern Washington to investigate the biogeochemical response to locally uraniferous groundwater. Uranium is preferentially incorporated in needles and twigs compared to larger branches or the trunk. The U concentration in needle ash ranges from 0.2 to 5.8 μg g−1 (ppm) and shows no correlation with the U concentration in associated soils. Rather, the distribution of anomalously uraniferous douglas fir (>1.0μg g−1 U in needle ash) appears to be controlled by observed or readily inferred pathways of near-surface groundwater movement in the drainage. These pathways include: (1) general downslope movement of subsurface runoff; (2) increased flux of near-surface groundwater near the toe of an alluvial fan; and (3) emergence of uraniferous (100–150 ng ml−1 [ppb] groundwater in the vicinity of a slope spring. The data also indicate the presence of near-surface uraniferous groundwater along a structurally controlled zone that parallels the north-south strike of the valley, and that includes the slope spring. The results suggest that biogeochemical sampling may be used to supplement more direct, but more limited, measurements of groundwater quality and flow regime in areas of near-surface contaminated groundwater.
Frequency norms and structural analysis of algebra story problems into families, categories, and templates

The goal of this study was to develop a framework for classifying algebra story problems and to determine observed frequencies for each problem type. A total of 1097 algebra story problems were selected from ten standard algebra textbooks. These are divided into eight families based on the nature of the source formula involved; for example, nearly 300 problems were classified in the “time rate family” because they were based on the source formula, “distance = rate x time” or “output = rate x time.” Each family was divided into problem categories based on the general form of the story line; for example, the time rate family consisted of “motion,” “current,” and “work” categories. Each category was divided into templates based on the specific propositional structure of the problem; for example, there were a dozen templates for motion problems such as “overtake,” “closure,” “round trip,” etc. This article describes the procedure for generating families, categories, and templates and provides frequency counts for each observed template. Implications for fostering productive research and instruction are discussed.
The effect of the breakdown of the Born-Oppenheimer approximation on the determination of Be and ωe for a diatomic molecule

Abstract Expressions are derived for the Dunham coefficients Y 01 and Y 10 (in terms of B e , ω e , and other molecular parameters) after allowing for the breakdown of the Born-Oppenheimer approximation. It is shown that the corrections resulting from the breakdown of the Born-Oppenheimer approximation are of the same order of magnitude as the corrections for anharmonicity (the so-called “Dunham corrections”). The determination of B e and ω e from precise Y 01 and Y 10 values is discussed with application to the molecules H 2 and CO.
Silver linings: a personal memoir about Hurricane Katrina and fungal volatiles.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the levees protecting New Orleans, Louisiana failed. Because approximately 80% of the city was under sea level, widespread flooding ensued. As a resident of New Orleans who had evacuated before the storm and a life-long researcher on filamentous fungi, I had known what to expect. After the hurricane I traveled home with a suitcase full of Petri dishes and sampling equipment so as to study the fungi that were “eating my house.” Not only were surfaces covered with fungal growth, the air itself was full of concentrated mold odor, a smell that was orders of magnitude more funky than any damp, musty basement I had ever encountered. The smell made me feel bad and I had to take regular breaks as I sampled. Being a mycotoxin expert, I knew a fair amount about “sick building syndrome” but believed that it was difficult to get enough respiratory exposure to toxins to cause the array of symptoms associated with the syndrome. So why was I feeling sick? Some Scandinavian experts had hypothesized that mold volatile organic compounds (VOCs) might be the fungal metabolites to blame for sick building syndrome and the time in my smelly, mold infested home made me think they might be right. After securing a new job and establishing a new laboratory, I endeavored to test the hypothesis that some volatile mold metabolites might be toxic. My laboratory at Rutgers University has interrogated the role of VOCs in possible interkingdom toxicity by developing controlled microcosms for exposing simple genetic model organisms to the vapor phase of growing fungi. Both Arabidopsis thaliana and Drosophila melanogaster exhibit a range of toxic symptoms that vary with the species of fungus, the duration of exposure, and other experimental parameters. Moreover, low concentrations of chemical standards of individual fungal VOCs such as 1-octen-3-ol also exhibit varying toxicity and cause neurotoxicity in a Drosophila model. Collectively, these data suggest that fungal VOCs may contribute to some of the adverse health effects reported by people exposed to damp indoor environments and that biogenic gas phase molecules deserve increased attention by the research community.
Ultrastructure of sporulation in the oyster pathogen Dermocystidium marinum

Abstract Electron-microscope studies demonstrate that presporangial cells (hypnospores) of the fungus Dermocystidium marinum are characterized by an apparent lack of mitochondria, by a cell wall homogeneous with respect to electron density, and by an electron-light nucleus. In precleavage sporangia, morphogenesis of mitochondria appears to occur from myelin figures, the cell walls acquire a three-layered appearance, and the nuclei become electron-dense with evidences of condensed chromatin. A discharge pore and tube are formed by rupture of the cell wall and subsequent unfolding of the tube from the innermost part of the cell wall. The pore is blocked by a plug which is a thickened section of the inner cell wall. Sporulation proceeds by successive bipartition of the protoplast involving alternating karyokinesis and cytokinesis. The nuclear membrane persists during karyokinesis. The process terminates with the formation of billagellated planonts, enclosed by two unit membranes. Evaginations of one or both of the membranes form a row of tinsels along one side of the anterior flagellum. Golgi bodies and a previously undescribed, electrondense body are found next to the planont nucleus. D. marinum is concluded to be a member of the Saprolegniales on the basis of planont morphology and previously described stages.
The antifolding activity of SecB promotes the export of the E. coli maltose-binding protein

Evidence is presented that the E. coli secB gene encodes a soluble protein that interacts with the mature region of the precursor maltose-binding protein (MBP), and promotes MBP export by preventing premature folding of the newly synthesized polypeptide into an export-incompetent form. The interaction of SecB with MBP was indicated by the finding that synthesis of various export-defective MBP species interfered with normal protein export by limiting SecB availability. The antifolding activity of SecB was demonstrated by the following: the defect in MBP export in SecB- cells was suppressed by mutational alterations affecting MBP folding; export of a mutant MBP that is accomplished in a strictly posttranslational mode was totally blocked in SecB- cells; and the rate of folding of wild-type MBP synthesized in vitro was found to be accelerated when SecB was absent and greatly retarded when excess SecB was present.
Lack of Smooth Muscle in the Small Pulmonary Arteries of the Native Ladakhi: Is the Himalayan Highlander Adapted?

Chronic hypobaric hypoxia induces a mild degree of pulmonary arterial hypertension with structural alterations in the peripheral portions of the pulmonary arterial tree of the native Andean highlanders. On the other hand, animals indigenous to high altitude do not show these changes and are adapted to hypobaric hypoxia. The small pulmonary arteries of seven native Himalayan highlanders were examined at autopsy and found to be thin-walled with no medial hypertrophy of the muscular pulmonary arteries or muscularization of the arterioles. These findings suggest that the Himalayan highlanders may be adapted to hypobaric hypoxia.
Global environmental management

Abstract The thesis is advanced that global environmental management will become praxis only with research by an internationally respected center leading to effective conflict management and, thus, to international cooperation in the search for solutions and implementation of policies. Two levels of such research are suggested and broadly defined: macro and micro. The relevance and contributions of experiences with local environmental conflict management are also discussed.
The Initial Domestication of Cucurbita pepo in the Americas 10,000 Years Ago

Squash seeds, peduncles, and fruit rind fragments from Archaic period stratigraphic zones of Guila Naquitz cave in Oaxaca, Mexico, are assigned to Cucurbita pepo on the basis of diagnostic morphological characters and identified as representing a domesticated plant on the basis of increased seed length and peduncle diameter, as well as changes in fruit shape and color, in comparison to wild Cucurbita gourds. Nine accelerator mass spectrometer radiocarbon dates on these specimens document the cultivation of C. pepo by the inhabitants of Guila Naquitz cave between 10,000 to 8000 calendar years ago (9000 to 7000 carbon-14 years before the present), which predates maize, beans, and other directly dated domesticates in the Americas by more than 4000 years.
Treatment of ischemia due to “steal” by arteriovenous fistula with distal artery ligation and revascularization

Three cases are described of upper extremity ischemia occurring after the creation of fistulas (AVFs) (one case) and bridge AVFs (two cases) for hemodialysis access. All three cases were successfully treated with ligation of the artery immediately distal to the origin of the AVF in conjunction with a reversed saphenous vein bypass. The latter was constructed from the artery proximal to the origin of the fistula to the artery distal to the site of ligation. Preoperative and postoperative hemodynamic measurements and complete disappearance of symptoms indicated that this procedure corrected the ischemic steal phenomenon. Angioaccess function was not affected in these three cases, thereby allowing continuation of its use immediately after corrective surgery and for follow-up periods of 1 month, 6 months, and 8 years.
The Effect of Mentoring on Career Satisfaction of Registered Nurses and Intent to Stay in the Nursing Profession

Mentoring is important in the career development of novice and experienced nurses. With the anticipated shortage in nursing, it is important to explore factors such as mentoring that may contribute to career satisfaction and intent to stay in the profession. This study explored the effects of mentoring on career satisfaction and intent to stay in nursing, and the relationship between career satisfaction and intent to stay in nursing. It was conducted through a mailed survey of RNs 55 years or younger currently in practice, education, administration, or research. Career satisfaction was measured through the use of the newly developed Mariani Nursing Career Satisfaction Scale. Findings revealed no statistically significant effect of mentoring on career satisfaction and intent to stay in nursing. There was a statistically significant relationship between career satisfaction and intent to stay in nursing. The majority of nurses reported participating in a mentoring relationship. Although the findings related to mentoring, career satisfaction, and intent to stay were not statistically significant, there was a prevalence of mentoring in nursing, thus suggesting the need for future research to identify outcomes of mentoring. In addition, the study contributed a newly developed instrument to measure the concept of career satisfaction in nursing.
Mechanical thresholds for initiation and persistence of pain following nerve root injury: mechanical and chemical contributions at injury.

There is much evidence supporting the hypothesis that magnitude of nerve root mechanical injury affects the nature of the physiological responses which can contribute to pain in lumbar radiculopathy. Specifically, injury magnitude has been shown to modulate behavioral hypersensitivity responses in animal models of radiculopathy. However, no study has determined the mechanical deformation thresholds for initiation and maintenance of the behavioral sensitivity in these models. Therefore, it was the purpose of this study to quantify the effects of mechanical and chemical contributions at injury on behavioral outcomes and to determine mechanical thresholds for pain onset and persistence. Male Holtzman rats received either a silk or chromic gut ligation of the L5 nerve roots, a sham exposure of the nerve roots, or a chromic exposure in which no mechanical deformation was applied but chromic gut material was placed on the roots. Using image analysis, nerve root radial strains were estimated at the time of injury. Behavioral hypersensitivity was assessed by measuring mechanical allodynia continuously throughout the study. Chromic gut ligations produced allodynia responses for nerve root strains at two-thirds of the magnitudes of those strains which produced the corresponding behaviors for silk ligation. Thresholds for nerve root compression producing the onset (8.4%) and persistence of pain (17.4%‐22.2%) were determined for silk ligation in this lumbar radiculopathy model. Such mechanical thresholds for behavioral sensitivity in a painful radiculopathy model begin to provide biomechanical data which may have utility in broader experimental and computational models for relating injury biomechanics and physiologic responses of pain. @DOI: 10.1115/1.1695571#
Streptococcus anginosus ("Streptococcus milleri"): the unrecognized pathogen.

"Streptococcus milleri" is an unofficial name that has been applied to a group of streptococci which, although basically similar, show various hemolytic, serological, and physiological characteristics. The species name Streptococcus anginosus has recently been recognized as the approved name for these organisms. Streptococci known as "S. milleri" have been implicated as etiologic agents in a variety of serious purulent infections, but because of their heterogeneous characteristics, these organisms may be unrecognized or misidentified by clinical laboratorians. This review describes the bacteriological aspects of organisms known as "S. milleri," their clinical significance, and the problems encountered with their identification in the clinical laboratory.
Hot water to control codling moth in sweet cherries : Efficacy and quality

Quarantine regulations require domestic cherries exported to Japan be treated to control for codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). The current procedure, methyl bromide fumigation, uses a restricted chemical, reduces fruit quality, and involves health, safety and environmental concerns. Single and double hot water dips were evaluated using fresh ‘Bing’ and ‘Sweetheart’ sweet cherries from Washington state as a potential replacement. The double dip procedure had a pretreatment bath at 40C for 5 min. For both procedures, submersions in heated water from 48 to 55C for 2–14 min were examined for treatment efficacy against third-instar codling moth and fruit quality. Although a 100% mortality response was found for each temperature and procedure, the submersion durations significantly
Efficacy of an assistive intervention for abdominal surgery patients in postoperative care.

Purpose. The objective of this study was to assess efficacy of a bed-assistive device during at-home recovery through self-reports of self-perceived recovery status and oral pain medication usage.Methods. A case-control design was used to determine differences in self-perceived recovery measures and pain medication according to surgical procedure, device/no device, and age strata. Fifteen female patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy (n = 6) or Cesarean-section (n = 9) procedures were recruited. Stratified sampling techniques were used to assign patients to the control (n = 8; age, 34.0 [6.3] years) and devices groups (n = 7; 40.7 [12.4] years). Both groups completed 12 questionnaires on perceived recovery status, activities of daily living, and pain medication usage over a five-week recovery period. Device group patients received training on device usage prior to surgery. Repeated measures ANOVA were used to analyse data and compare data across experimental groups.Results. In general, device users re...
Combined Acute Rheumatic Fever and Congenitally Bicuspid Aortic Valve: A Hitherto Unconfirmed Combination

An 18-year-old man is described in whom rheumatic heart disease, as evidenced by the presence of classic Aschoff bodies, occurred in combination with a congenitally bicuspid (purely incompetent) aortic valve. To our knowledge, this is the first report documenting the presence of rheumatic heart disease and congenitally bicuspid aortic valve in the same patient.
Cross-Talk Between Angiotensin II Receptor Types 1 and 2 Potential Role in Vascular Remodeling in Humans

Angiotensin (Ang) II exerts its important physiological functions through 2 distinct receptor subtypes, the type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptors.1 The AT1 receptor is expressed in diverse adult tissues, and its distribution is indicative of the fundamental role of Ang II on the regulation of cardiovascular and renal homeostasis. The predominant actions of Ang II, such as vasoconstriction, cellular proliferation and growth, renal sodium retention, and release of aldosterone, are linked to the activation of various signal-transduction pathways modulated by the AT1 receptor. Although the AT2 receptor is highly expressed in the fetus, its expression in adult tissues is low but increases in response to injury.2–5 It has been demonstrated that AT1 and AT2 receptors have counterregulatory interactions in the cardiovascular system.2 The AT2 receptor has been shown to exert an inhibitory effect on the growth-promoting action of the AT1 receptor.6 The cross-talk between AT1 and AT2 receptors has also been suggested to participate in the regulation of blood pressure. Ang II binding to the AT1 receptor activates G protein-coupled phospholipase C and inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate, which increases intracellular Ca2+ levels resulting in vasoconstriction. On the other hand, Ang II binding to the AT2 receptor activates a counterregulatory pathway …
Differential blood cell counts obtained using a microchannel based flow cytometer

This paper reports results demonstrating the ability to use single microfabricated silicon flow channels for the differential counting of granulocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, red blood cells (RBCs), and platelets, in a sample of blood by means of laser light scattering. The microfabrication-based flow cytometer described does not rely on sheath flow in order to align the blood cells.