cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pitfalls of the microtiter system for serial dilutions and standardization using radioiodinated albumin.

The hemagglutination inhibition immunoassay and the staphylococcal clumping technic for determining fibrinolytic split products both utilize the microtiter system. The quality control of this system, using 131I-labeled albumin, is described. Three dropper pipettes were found to have errors, based on an expected volume of 25 µ l., of –7.6 to 14.4% (mean 3.5%). Eight transfer pipettes were found to contain volumes larger than the expected 25 µ l.; the errors ranged from 6.4 to 14.0% (mean 9.9%). The proper use of the microtiter system and the accuracy of doubling dilutions are discussed. The technic has inherent pitfalls but, if performed properly, gives reproducible results.
Are Physical Education Majors Really Fit

(1976). Are Physical Education Majors Really Fit? Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 47, No. 6, pp. 36-36.
Study of X-ray Irradiation on the Performance of Transformer Oil at Different Tube Voltages

X-ray digital imaging technology is used to detect some oil filled electric power equipment.But this technology may change the oil insulation performance in these equipment.A research of using given tube voltage X-ray to irradiate the transformer oil has been conducted in this paper.The content of the study is to irradiate the applied voltage and no voltage transformer oil respectively for given energy and given time by portable high frequency X-ray generator.Experimental results found that X-ray does not have a significant impact to oil chromatogram under the commonly used several kinds of tube voltages,but it has a great influence on oil charged tendentiousness when the tube voltages is higher than the commonly used several kinds.The findings will provide technical support for X-ray digital imaging detection technology in forming standards in the future and have a significant meaning to stable operation in power grid.
Modelling of geographic cancer risk factor disparities in US counties

Abstract The goal of this research is to create a theoretical framework for the identification of cancer risk factor disparities and address the recognition of geographic patterns in these factors. 34 secondary variables covering the entire US at the county level in 2010 were analyzed, both individually and grouped (theoretically and statistically), in relation to the mortality to incidence ratio (MIR) for all cancer sites. An a priori assessment and a principal components analysis (PCA) were used to group variables to test societal constructs. OLS and geographically weighted regressions (GWRs) were used to assess influence of both individual and grouped variables against the MIR. The theoretical grouping of variables showed little change in predictive capability of OLS models. In GWR model, there was marked improvement over the OLS. Maps produced using local R2 showed clear regional patterns of influence between the indicators and the MIR. Both the theoretical model and the justification for a spatial approach to cancer risk factor disparities were shown to be effective in this paper. The link between this suite of indicators and the health outcomes is clear, and supports the idea that a full representation of the SES landscape should be used to both predict health outcomes and to assess policy options for improving these outcomes. With the presence of definitive regional patterns and clear connections between the MIR and societal groupings, the findings from this research suggest a need to shift to a more comprehensive and spatial approach to cancer disparities research.
On Combining Encryption for Multiple Data Streams

A novel technique is proposed to combine the encryption of multiple data streams by generating a single encrypted stream, from which any of the original data streams can subsequently be decrypted. By transforming the original data onto random bases and using specially selected duals, a secure method is proposed for the simultaneous encryption and restricted decryption of data of any dimension. These special duals allow the simple addition of transformation coefficients while allowing perfect decryption of each data stream, which otherwise is not possible. Experimentation in encrypting different images and multiple videos are presented, demonstrating the applicability of our approach. We show that our encryption technique is not only easy to code but is highly secure. The proposed technique can be used in any application where data protection is desired from unauthorized users or where restricted access is required
Abstract IA06: Co-Targeting cell cycle and androgen signaling to personalize therapy for hormone dependent prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PC) is an androgen driven and dependent disease and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the standard for patients with metastatic hormone sensitive disease. Despite a high response rate, most patients will progress to castration resistance. The expanding molecular knowledge highlights the biologic heterogeneity and adaptive capacity of PC, and provides the rationale for a preemptive multi-targeted therapeutic strategy. Compelling support for the latter strategy is provided by recent data from two randomized trials demonstrating an unprecedented impact on survival with the addition of docetaxel to ADT. Androgens drive proliferation of PC cells via upregulation of cyclin D which complexes with the cyclin-dependent protein kinases 4/6 (CDK4/6) resulting in phosphorylation of retinoblastoma (Rb) tumor suppressor protein and G1/S progression. Alterations in this pathway contribute to progression to castration-resistance. Palbociclib is a novel specific CDK4/ 6 inhibitor which was recently approved in combination with letrozole for postmenopausal women with ER +, HER2 negative advanced breast cancer. In preclinical prostate cancer models, palbociclib inhibited proliferation and promoted G1 arrest in an Rb and Cyclin D dependent manner. Current data indicate that wild-type Rb expression is present in in 95% vs 75% of patients with newly diagnosed vs metastatic castration resistant PC respectively. We estimate that 80-90% of early metastatic hormone-sensitive PC will harbor intact Rb. Based on the biologic and preclinical data, we developed a multicenter randomized phase II clinical trial (NCT02059213) to test the hypothesis that adding palbociclib to ADT in patients with newly metastatic Rb-positive PC will significantly increase the efficacy of ADT. Patients (n = 60) with new metastatic hormone sensitive PC and Rb intact tumors based on metastatic biopsy are stratified by disease extent and randomized (1:2) to ADT or ADT+ palbociclib. Primary endpoint is confirmed prostate specific antigen (PSA) response ( To date 39 patients have been registered and underwent tumor metastatic disease biopsy (soft tissue 26, bone 13). 2 patients were Rb negative and 5 had inadequate tissue. 32 patients have been randomized to ADT (11 patients) or ADT + palbociclib (21 patients). The study is in progress. Support: Movember-PCF Challenge Award, Pfizer. Citation Format: Maha Hussain, Phillip L. Palmbos1, Scott A. Tomlins1, Stephanie Daignault-Newton, Neeraj Agarwal, Przemyslaw Twardowski, Alicia K. Morgans, Emmanuel S. Antonarakis, Karen E. Knudsen, Felix Y. Feng. Co-Targeting cell cycle and androgen signaling to personalize therapy for hormone dependent prostate cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Precision Medicine Series: Cancer Cell Cycle - Tumor Progression and Therapeutic Response; Feb 28-Mar 2, 2016; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2016;14(11_Suppl):Abstract nr IA06.
Hyperthermostable binding molecules on phage: Assay components for point-of-care diagnostics for active tuberculosis infection.

Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death from infectious disease worldwide. The low sensitivity, extended processing time, and high expense of current diagnostics are major challenges to the detection and treatment of tuberculosis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis ornithine transcarbamylase (Mtb OTC, Rv1656) has been identified in the urine of patients with active TB infection and is a promising target for point-of-care diagnostics. Specific binding proteins with low nanomolar affinities for Mtb OTC were selected from a phage display library built upon a hyperthermostable Sso7d scaffold. Phage particles displaying Sso7d variants were utilized to generate a sandwich ELISA-based assay for Mtb OTC. The assay response is linear between 2 ng/mL and 125 ng/mL recombinant Mtb OTC and has a limit of detection of 400 pg/mL recombinant Mtb OTC. The assay employing a phage-based detection reagent is comparable to commercially-available antibody-based biosensors. Importantly, the assay maintains functionality at both neutral and basic pH in presence of salt and urea over the range of concentrations typical for human urine. Phage-based diagnostic systems may feature improved physical stability and cost of production relative to traditional antibody-based reagents, without sacrificing specificity and sensitivity.
Geographies, Critical and Marxist, and Lessons from South Africa:

Analysis in human geography has shown persistent tendencies of a pluralistic sort: a view of the world as the product of numerous independent and interacting forces. The advent of Marxist geography...
Patología placentaria en la etiología eclámpsica

En los ultimos anos la etiologia de la toxemia se ha enfocado desde dos puntos de vista: primero por el hallazgo de necrosis placentaria y segundo por la influencia del espasmo vascular.En 1930 R. A. Bartholomew descubrio en la cara materna de la placenta, areas de degeneracion reciente, especialmente en casos de “Abruptio”. El hallazgo sugeria mas la causa que el efecto, ya que representaba tejido degenerado en contacto con la corriente sanguinea materna intervellosa; por lo tanto con posibilidad de diseminar en la circulacion general de la madre productos toxicos residuales.
Modern reirradiation for recurrent gliomas can safely delay tumor progression.

Background Despite advances in modern therapy, high-grade gliomas continue to portend a dismal prognosis and nearly all patients will experience relapse. Unfortunately, salvage options remain limited. In this study, we assessed outcomes for patients with recurrent gliomas treated with reirradiation. Methods We retrospectively identified 48 glioma patients treated with reirradiation between 2013 and 2016. All had radiographic or pathologic evidence of recurrence. Prognostic factors were abstracted from the electronic medical record. Results Initial surgery included biopsy in 15, subtotal resection in 21, and gross total resection in 12. Initial chemotherapy included temozolomide (TMZ) in 31, TMZ+dasatinib in 7, TMZ+vorinostat in 3, and procarbazine, lomustine, and vincristine in 2. The median dose of primary radiotherapy was 60 Gy delivered in 30 fractions. Median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) from initial diagnosis were 3.2 and 1.7 years, respectively. A total of 36 patients failed salvage bevacizumab before reirradiation. Salvage surgery was performed before reirradiation in 21 patients. Median time to reirradiation was 1.7 years. Median follow-up was 13.7 months from reirradiation. Concurrent systemic therapy was given in 33 patients (bevacizumab in 27, TMZ in 8, and lomustine in 2). Median PFS and OS after reirradiation were 3.2 and 6.3 months, respectively. Radionecrosis occurred in 4 patients and no radionecrosis was seen in patients receiving concurrent bevacizumab with reirradiation (0% vs 19%, P = .03). Conclusions Reirradiation may result in delayed tumor progression with acceptable toxicity. Prospective trials are needed to determine the impact of reirradiation on tumor progression and quality of life.
Post-fledging habitat use in the Dickcissel

ABSTRACT Effective habitat management requires understanding habitat needs across a species' life history stages. In songbirds, management of breeding habitat is generally focused on the pre-nesting and nesting stages, while habitat use during the critical post-fledging stage remains understudied and is seldom a target for management. In 2014 and 2015, we documented post-fledging habitat use of Dickcissels (Spiza americana) in central Illinois, USA. We examined vegetation characteristics used by fledglings and how fledgling survival varied with habitat use. We also compared fledgling habitat use to nesting site habitat. Fledgling Dickcissels used areas with vegetation that was overall denser and more concealed than at random locations. Fledglings preferentially selected dense vegetation after fledging (days 1–3 post-fledging), and then used even denser vegetation once they became more mobile (days 4–11 post-fledging). Fledglings that used comparatively denser habitat were more likely to survive the critic...
Adaptation and Validation of the Shame Questionnaire Among Ugandan Youth Living with HIV

The purpose of this study was to adapt and validate a measure of HIV-related shame, the Shame Questionnaire (SQ), among Ugandan youth living with HIV. Culturally relevant, reliable and valid measurement is critical in the accurate assessment of HIV-related shame (a painful internalized emotion encompassing feelings that the self is damaged and defective) on psychosocial functioning, as well as the determination of the efficacy of interventions among youth living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. We utilized qualitative (i.e., cognitive interviews; N = 31) and quantitative (i.e., classical test theory and item response theory; N = 150) methods to establish, content, criterion and construct validity of the SQ. Cognitive interviews resulted in the revision in the wording of 2 out of 8 SQ items. Participants who endorsed having shame had statistically significant higher SQ scores than participants who did not endorse having shame (p < 0.001), suggesting criterion validity. We found a statistically significant positive relationship between SQ scores and average trauma symptom scores among participants (p < 0.001), also suggesting criterion validity. Finally, we found construct validity with discrimination parameters of the graded response IRT model all in the high range with a wide range of difficulty parameters across the 8 items of the SQ. Overall our results suggest that the SQ is a contextually relevant, valid and reliable assessment tool among Ugandan youth living with HIV. Findings provide support for the utilization of qualitative and quantitative methods in the adaptation of measures for cross-cultural use in order to maintain validity and contextual relevance.
Definition and Measurement of Cell Migration Coefficients

We demonstrate the measurement of the cell migration coefficients defined in a constitutive cell flux expression first proposed by Keller and Segel: the random motility coefficient, μ, and the Chemotaxis coefficient, χ. Discussion begins with more recent derivations leading to refined flux expressions defining μ and χ. Cell density profiles obtained for leukocytes in the linear under-agarose assay are then examined for consistency with theoretical predictions based on the flux expression derived by Alt, yielding values of μ and χ which can be interpreted in terms of fundamental cell movement parameters using the more recent theory. Finally, experimental complications inherent in current population assays are discussed and a novel migration assay which is designed to circumvent the complications is proposed and analyzed.
Mass Production of Natural Enemies

The value of entomophagous arthropods (parasites and predators) in supressing pest populations has been well established. However, sufficient numbers are not always present or available to provide adequate control. Biological control by augmentation of predators and parasites that have been mass produced in insectaries provides a means of insuring the presence of numbers that are adequate to maintain pest populations at the desired level. The feasibility of this approach to pest control has been documented by Ridgway et al. (1974), Stinner (1977) and Rabb et al. (1976) and in other chapters of this book.
Oxygen Fields Induced by Recessed and Needle Oxygen Microelectrodes in Homogeneous Media

Accurate interpretation of the experimental results obtained with oxygen microelectrodes requires a knowledge of the extent to which the PO2 disturbance generated by the electrode extends into the medium under study. We have developed computer simulations (1) of the PO2 fields surrounding the two most common types of microelectrodes, recessed and needle. The simulations allow us to characterize a probe from its approximate shape and its electrical current before and after membrane application. It also allows us to decide, on theoretical grounds, which microelectrode design would be best for a particular experiment. The theoretical model described here is for a cathode in a homogeneous, non-consuming medium. It would, however, be equally valid in a medium consuming O2 at a constant rate (2) and the results found here would be similar to those in a real tissue.
Unique Features of Electron Transport and Low-Frequency Noise in Quasi-One-Dimensional ZrTe3 van der Waals Nanoribbons

This work was supported, in part, by the Semiconductor Research Corporation (SRC) contract 2018-NM-2796: One-Dimensional Single-Crystal van-der-Waals Metals: Ultimately-Downscaled Interconnects with Exceptional Current-Carrying Capacity and Reliability, and by the National Science Foundation (NSF) through the Emerging Frontiers of Research Initiative (EFRI) 2-DARE award EFRI-1433395: Novel Switching Phenomena in Atomic MX2 Heterostructures for Multifunctional Applications.
Stability and Predictability in Dynamically Complex Physical Interactions

This study examines human control of physical interaction with objects that exhibit complex (nonlinear, chaotic, underactuated) dynamics. We hypothesized that humans exploited stability properties of the human-object interaction. Using a simplified 2D model for carrying a “cup of coffee”, we developed a virtual implementation to identify human control strategies. Transporting a cup of coffee was modeled as a cart with a suspended pendulum, where humans moved the cart on a horizontal line via a robotic manipulandum. The specific task was to transport the cart-pendulum system to a target, as fast as possible, while accommodating assistive and resistive perturbations. To assess trajectory stability, we applied contraction analysis. We showed that when the perturbation was assistive, humans absorbed the perturbation by controlling cart trajectories into a contraction region prior to the perturbation. When the perturbation was resistive, subjects passed through a contraction region following the perturbation. Entering a contraction region stabilizes performance and makes the dynamics more predictable. This human control strategy could inspire more robust control strategies for physical interaction in robots.
Frequency and Correlates of Subjective Cognitive Impairment in HIV Disease

The increasing prevalence of older adults living with HIV has raised growing concerns about a possible rise in the incidence of neurocognitive disorders due to HIV and other age-related factors. In typical aging, subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) among individuals with normal neurocognitive functioning may be an early manifestation of an incipient neurocognitive disorder. The current study examined the frequency and correlates of SCI in 188 HIV-infected adults without performance-based neurocognitive deficits or a current psychiatric disorder and 133 HIV seronegative comparison participants. All participants completed the Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire and Profile of Mood States Confusion/Bewilderment scale. Consistent with the diagnostic criteria proposed by Jessen et al. (Alzheimers Dement 10(6):844–852, 2014), participants were classified with SCI if their scores on either of the self-reported measures was greater than 1.5 SD above the normative mean. A logistic regression controlling for current mood complaints and lifetime history of substance use disorders revealed that HIV infection increased the odds of SCI (odds ratio= 4.5 [1.6, 15.4], p = 0.004). Among HIV+ individuals, SCI was associated with lower performance-based learning and delayed memory scores (Cohen’s d range 0.41–0.42.) and poorer global everyday functioning (odds ratio= 8.5 [2.6, 15.9]), but not HIV disease severity (ps > 0.10). In a sample of individuals without neurocognitive impairment or elevated mood symptoms, HIV disease was associated with a nearly fivefold increased odds of SCI compared to seronegative individuals, which may indicate an increased risk for developing major neurocognitive disorders as these HIV+ individuals age.
Remote Gait Analysis Using Wearable Sensors Detects Asymmetric Gait Patterns in Patients Recovering from ACL Reconstruction

This paper presents an automated, wearable sensor-based remote gait analysis method and demonstrates its utility by evaluating gait in patients recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Patients wore a single wearable sensor over the rectus femoris of each leg to collect over 15 hours of 3-axis accelerometer and surface electromyography data during daily life. A support vector machine classifier was used to identify four second windows of walking activity. Across all subjects 10,451 strides were extracted from these windows and categorized as occurring during either fast or slow walking. Muscle activation and 3-axis thigh acceleration time-series for each stride were resampled as a percentage of stride cycle and ensemble curves from both legs were compared using correlation as an index of gait pattern symmetry. Our results suggest the proposed method successfully identifies time-series gait asymmetries between affected and unaffected legs when comparing patients early post-surgery ( $ weeks) and later ( $> \pmb {14}$ weeks) in recovery for each walking speed. These results point toward future use of this approach as a digital biomarker for rehabilitation progress in this population.
Robust, Scalable Synthesis of the Bulky Hagfeldt Donor for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

The bulky triarylamine group commonly referred to as the "Hagfeldt donor" is a key building block found in many of the organic dyes used in dye-sensitized applications such as dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). This building block has gained popularity owing to its presence in many of the best-performing DSC devices reported to date, which use dyes containing this donor group. The Hagfeldt donor provides a desirable 3-dimensional structure that aids in surface protection of electrons injected into the semiconductor from oxidants in the electrolyte, allowing for record-setting cobalt- and copper-based redox shuttles to be utilized more frequently. However, the synthesis of this molecule has proven unreliable for many routes. This study concerns a novel, reliable and scalable five-step synthesis of the Hagfeldt donor.
Chapter 8 – Endothelium

Vascular endothelium of the brain has a multitude of regulatory functions that impact vascular tone, inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, angiogenesis, and thrombosis and hemostasis. Brain capillary endothelium is the critical interface of the blood–brain barrier, with a wide range of specific functional and structural components. Endothelial dysfunction thus has many implications and can contribute to stroke and cerebrovascular disorders in a multitude of ways. Pharmacologic targeting of these endothelial functions represents an important future therapeutic direction for stroke. The approaches with the most promise include statins, antioxidants, and phosphodiesterase inhibitors.
Dermatologic Adverse Events of Systemic Anticancer Therapies: Cytotoxic Chemotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and Immunotherapy

Over the past 2 decades, rapid advancement in systemic anticancer therapeutics has led to astounding improvement in survival rates of patients with cancer. However, this celebrated progress has brought with it an evolving spectrum of drug toxicities that limit their prodigious capabilities. Cutaneous adverse events are of the most frequent of these toxicities, with substantial impact on quality of life and commonly resulting in dose reduction or change in therapy. Thus, familiarity with the array of dermatologic manifestations caused by these drugs is prudent for patient treatment. As such, the advent of dedicated oncodermatologists, and their introduction into multidisciplinary cancer care, has been crucial in optimizing treatment through therapeutic achievement and overall well-being. This review will address the epidemiology, clinical presentations, and management strategies of the major dermatologic adverse events of systemic anticancer agents, including cytotoxic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Pilgrim’s missionary progress: Contemporary evangelistic adaptations of John Bunyan’s lingering spiritual classic for a post-secular West:

This article notes that the way in which John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress has been used in Christian missionary endeavors since its original publication in 1678 lingers in contemporary receptio...
Metabolomics reveals the impact of Type 2 diabetes on local muscle and vascular responses to ischemic stress

OBJECTIVE Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) reduces exercise capacity, but the mechanisms are incompletely understood. We probed the impact of ischemic stress on skeletal muscle metabolite signatures and T2DM-related vascular dysfunction. METHODS we recruited 38 subjects (18 healthy, 20 T2DM), placed an antecubital intravenous catheter, and performed ipsilateral brachial artery reactivity testing. Blood samples for plasma metabolite profiling were obtained at baseline and immediately upon cuff release after 5 min of ischemia. Brachial artery diameter was measured at baseline and 1 min after cuff release. RESULTS as expected, flow-mediated vasodilation was attenuated in subjects with T2DM (P<0.01). We confirmed known T2DM-associated baseline differences in plasma metabolites, including homocysteine, dimethylguanidino valeric acid and β-alanine (all P<0.05). Ischemia-induced metabolite changes that differed between groups included 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (healthy: -27%; DM +14%), orotic acid (healthy: +5%; DM -7%), trimethylamine-N-oxide (healthy: -51%; DM +0.2%), and glyoxylic acid (healthy: +19%; DM -6%) (all P<0.05). Levels of serine, betaine, β-aminoisobutyric acid and anthranilic acid were associated with vessel diameter at baseline, but only in T2DM (all P<0.05). Metabolite responses to ischemia were significantly associated with vasodilation extent, but primarily observed in T2DM, and included enrichment in phospholipid metabolism (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS our study highlights impairments in muscle and vascular signaling at rest and during ischemic stress in T2DM. While metabolites change in both healthy and T2DM subjects in response to ischemia, the relationship between muscle metabolism and vascular function is modified in T2DM, suggesting that dysregulated muscle metabolism in T2DM may have direct effects on vascular function.
Research on the Electromagnetic Characteristics of UHV-VSC Converter Valve

The characteristics of electromagnetic field for UHV-VSC converter valve are studied in this paper. The 3D electric field simulation model is established, and the indirect coupling method which takes the influence of water circuit on the overall electric field distribution into account is adopted. And the electric field distribution of the key positions of the UHV-VSC converter valve under different working conditions is calculated and evaluated, the results indicate the water circuit has some influence on the overall electrical insulation of valve tower. Besides, according to the arrangement of current carrying circuit and the material permeability of different equipment, a 3D simplified magnetic simulation model of valve tower is also set up. It was found that the material characteristic of power module shell has great influence on the overall magnetic field distribution of UHV-VSC converter valve.
Direct Selling as a Path to Business Ownership: Molly’s Mary Kay Journey:

This case describes Mary Kay Independent Sales Director Molly Williamson’s journey as she decided to pursue Mary Kay full-time. Mary Kay is a direct selling skincare and cosmetics company offering ...
Heterogeneous Biomechanical Model on Correcting Brain Deformation Induced by Tumor Resection

In this paper we present a non-rigid registration method to align pre-operative MRI (preMRI) with resected intra-operative MRI (iMRI) to compensate for brain deformation during tumor resection. This method formulates the registration as a three-variable (point correspondence, deformation field and resection region) functional minimization problem, in which point correspondence is represented by a fuzzy assign matrix, deformation field is represented by a piece-wise linear function regularized by the strain energy of a heterogeneous biomechanical model, and resection region is represented by a maximal connected tetrahedral mesh. A Nested Expectation and Maximization framework is developed to simultaneously resolve these three variables. This method accommodates a heterogeneous biomechanical model as the regularization term to realistically describe the underlying deformation field and allows the removal of the tetrahedra from the model to simulate the tumor resection. A simple two tissue heterogeneous model (ventricle plus the rest of the brain) is used to evaluate this method on 14 clinical cases. The experimental results show the effectiveness of this method in correcting the deformation induced by resection. The comparison between the homogeneous model and the heterogeneous model demonstrates the statistical significance of the improvement brought by the heterogeneous model (P-value 0.04)
Resolution of the Three-stranded Recombination Intermediate Made by RecA Protein: An Essential Role of ATP Hydrolysis

Previous work has shown that triplex DNA is an intermediate in homologous pairing and strand exchange promoted by RecA protein. Heterology at the proximal end of duplex DNA blocks strand exchange, but triplex joints form nonetheless at the homologous distal end. Experiments on the formation and processing of distal joints revealed that the yield of distal joints depends critically on the concentration of RecA-coated single strands and the adequacy of the ATP-regeneration system, and reflects a steady state. Distal joints reversibly formed and dissociated, as shown by several methods, including a chase with unlabeled duplex DNA. Controls excluded a contribution of exonucleolytic nibbling to the formation of distal joints and the stability of the deproteinized product. RecA protein was bound preferentially by putative triplex sites both in isolated proximal and distal joints. These high affinity sites disappeared from proximal joints as strand exchange progressed, and disappeared from distal joints as the joints dissociated. Dissociation of distal joints under all conditions, however, was completely arrested by the addition of ATPγS. Distal triplex joints can be as long as six kilobases. The observed inhibition of the dissociation of such long non-productive triplex intermediates by ATPγS leads us to propose that an essential role of ATP hydrolysis in RecA recombinational exchanges may be to ensure that no potentially troublesome triplex DNA remains in the cell.
Understanding Factors Influencing Proficient Information Systems Usage

Variations exist among information system (IS) users’ abilities to effectively utilize an IS. Some users are able to maximize IS potential, while others are not. This research proposes to understand the attributes of individuals who are most capable of exploiting IS to its fullest potential as well as the management and organizational factors that facilitate the development of highly competent users. The Repertory Grid Technique was utilized to identify user attributes contributing to IS proficiency in Phase One of this research and will be utilized to identify management and organizational factors in Phase Two. The results will provide a comprehensive framework of cross-level factors contributing to IS user competency. Also, the results will highlight attributes that can be fostered in other IS users through training interventions or potential hiring criteria as well as management/organizational factors that can be implemented to improve individual performance with IS use.
Average case performance of heuristics for multi-dimensional assignment problems

Beautiful formulas are known for the expected cost of random two-dimensional assignment problems, but in higher dimensions, even the scaling is not known. In 3 dimensions and above, the problem has natural \planar" and \axial" versions, both of which are NP-hard. For 3dimensional Planar random assignment instances of size n, the cost scales as (1 =n), and a main result of the present paper is the rst polynomial-time algorithm that, with high probability, nds a solution of cost O(n 1+" ), for arbitrary positive " (or indeed " going slowly to 0). For 3-dimensional Axial assignment, the lower bound is ( n), and we give a new ecient matchingbased algorithm that returns a solution with expected cost O(n logn).
Linear polarization in the Orion Nebula.

Photographs of the central portion of the Orion Nebula indicate small variations in polarization as a function of rotation of the polarizing filter. The effects are observed only in an area east of the Trapezium and only in the red region of the spectrum.
Social interaction attenuates the extent of secondary neuronal damage following closed head injury in mice.

Recovery following Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can vary tremendously among individuals. Lifestyle following injury, including differential social interactions, may modulate the extent of secondary injury following TBI. To examine this possibility under controlled conditions, closed head injury (CHI) was induced in C57Bl6 mice using a standardized weight drop device after which mice were either housed in isolation or with their original cagemates (“socially-housed”) for 4 weeks. CHI transiently impaired novel object recognition (NOR) in both isolated and social mice, confirming physical and functional injury. By contrast, Y maze navigation was impaired in isolated but not social mice at 1–4 weeks post CHI. CHI increased excitotoxic signaling in hippocampal slices from all mice, which was transiently exacerbated by isolation at 2 weeks post CHI. CHI slightly increased reactive oxygen species and did not alter levels of amyloid beta (Abeta), total or phospho-tau, total or phosphorylated neurofilaments. CHI increased serum corticosterone in both groups, which was exacerbated by isolation. These findings support the hypothesis that socialization may attenuate secondary damage following TBI. In addition, a dominance hierarchy was noted among socially-housed mice, in which the most submissive mouse displayed indices of stress in the above analyses that were statistically identical to those observed for isolated mice. This latter finding underscores that the nature and extent of social interaction may need to vary among individuals to provide therapeutic benefit.
Performance of the High Yield Technology Inc. PM-100 in situ particle flux monitor

An in situ particle flux monitor (High Yield Technology, Inc., model PM-100) was evaluated using monodisperse polystyrene latex and oleic acid aerosols. A conventional laser particle counter with a lower size limit of 0.3 μm was used to obtain efficiency data. The counting efficiency of the monitor was determined experimentally as a function of particle size in the diameter range of 0.5–6.0 μm. Other operating characteristics that were studied include the effect on counting efficiency of particle velocity, spatial uniformity of the viewing plane, aerosol concentration, and discriminator setting. In addition, the application of the monitor in a vacuum environment was demonstrated. Results showed that the monitor counting efficiency decreased with particle size (from 4.7% at 6 μm to 0.1% at 0.5 μm). Also, the counting efficiency was found to be dependent on sampling velocity but was unaffected by particle concentration. Further tests showed that the monitor had limited sizing ability. Mie scattering analysi...
The Role of Metal Catalyst in Near Ambient Hydrogen Adsorption on Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were continuously synthesized by hot wire chemical vapor deposition (HWCVD) using a methane source catalyzed by metal-organic ferrocene. The microstructure of the MWNTs and the catalyst particles were subsequently characterized with transmission electron microscopy which identified three different phases, i.e., bcc α-Fe, fcc γ-Fe and orthorhombic Fe 3 C. The hydrogen storage capacity of MWNTs was determined with temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) technique. Hydrogen adsorption at near ambient conditions was observed only in as-synthesized MWNTs containing iron particles and was dramatically increased after hydrogen reducing treatment. Possible adsorption mechanism was also discussed.
Three-dimensional Bubbly Flow Measurement Using PIV

The experimental flow visualization tool, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), is being extended to determine the velocity fields in three-dimensional, two-phase fluid flows. In the past few years, the technique has attracted quite a lot of interest. PIV enables fluid velocities across a region of a flow to be measured at a single instant in time in the whole volume (global) of interest. This instantaneous velocity profile of a given flow field is determined by digitally recording particle (microspheres or bubbles) images within the flow over multiple successive video frames and then conducting flow pattern identification and analysis of the data. This paper presents instantaneous velocity measurements in various three-dimensional, bubbly two-phase flow situations. This information is useful for developing or improving existing computer constitutive models that simulate this type of flow field. It is also useful for understanding the detailed structure of two-phase flows.
New species and combinations in the genera Sigesbeckia and Trigonospermum (Compositae: Melampodiinae)

Two new species and a new combination ofSigesbeckia are proposed, the latter being a species-transfer from the genusTrigonospermum. A new species ofTrigonospermum is also proposed. Heretofore, these two genera have been placed in different subtribes:Trigonospermum in Melampodiinae;Sigesbeckia in Verbesininae, the former being distinguished by its sterile disk florets. This is believed to be a technical distinction, reliance upon which creates unnatural alliances. It is proposed that the description ofSigesbeckia be emended such as to possess either fertile or sterile disk florets.
Loan Collateral Decisions and Corporate Borrowing Costs

We examine the relation between borrowing costs and the presence of loan collateral. We find the presence of collateral increases with default risk, consistent with low quality borrowers reducing their risks and borrowing costs through the use of collateral. By explicitly controlling for the interdependence between the decision to pledge collateral and borrowing costs, we find that secured loans have predicted spreads substantially lower than if they had been made on an unsecured basis. Alternatively, loans made on an unsecured basis have spreads not substantially different from if they had been secured. The evidence suggests that collateral pledging decisions are generally consistent with borrowing cost minimization.
Zinc Content of feed ingredients and Dried egg Samples

Abstract Data pertaining to the zinc content of certain poultry feed ingredients were reported by Norris et al. (1958). Rahman et al. (1959) described the distribution of Zn65 in mature hens. In conjunction with zinc requirement studies, previously reported (Sullivan, 1961), a number of practical feed ingredients and two samples of dried eggs were analyzed for zinc content. The samples were wet-ashed with nitric and perchloric acids; zinc was determined by the A.P.H.A. (1955) dithizone method. Analytical data are presented in Table 1. These data clearly show that feed ingredients vary considerably as to zinc content. This was true of materials of both plant and animal origin. Dried whey contains only 3 parts per million (ppm.), while steamed bone meal contains 172.4 ppm. of zinc. Wheat bran and wheat middlings contain relatively high levels of zinc, 80 and 152.5 ppm., respectively. Tap water at Lincoln contains 1.9 ppm. of zinc, or …
Forensic examination following rape: do skin colour and baseline injury matter?

Background Rape is a global health risk for women. We are exploring the role of skin colour in the forensic examination by studying women after consensual sexual intercourse (CSI). Aims/Objectives/Purpose Determine whether injury prevalence varies by ethnicity and skin colour following CSI; Evaluate whether recent (≤24 h) CSI increases injury from baseline. Methods Cross-sectional design for phase I (n=120) and repeated measures design for phase II (n=281). In phase I, participants underwent a forensic exam following CSI, and in phase II participants had a baseline exam, followed by CSI and a follow-up exam. Results/Outcomes In phase I, 55% of the sample had ≥1 genital injury; percentages significantly differed for White (68%) and Black (43%) participants (p=0.02). While ethnicity was a significant predictor of injury occurrence (OR=3.15; RR=2.94), skin colour confounded the original relationship between ethnicity and injury. In phase II, we enrolled 146 women. The change in genital injury prevalence and frequency from exam 1 to 2 was modelled using logistic and negative binomial regression. Outcomes included specific injury type and observation of any injury during exam 2. Injury observed during examination 1 was the key predictor, adjusted for age, ethnicity, time since intercourse, duration and frequency of intercourse, degree of lubrication, number of lifetime partners, and skin colour. Significance/Contributions to the Field Results showed significant increases in redness as well as increased frequency of any external genital injury. We conclude that the rape forensic examination should be sensitive to skin colour, time since last intercourse, and baseline injury.
SHELL-MODEL CALCULATIONS WITH A SKYRME-TYPE EFFECTIVE INTERACTION

Abstract Shell-model calculations for the s-d shell nuclei and Sn isotopes are performed using Hartree-Fock wave functions and two-body matrix elements based upon the SGII Skyrme-type density-dependent interaction. We reproduce the spectra of several nuclei from the beginning to the end of the s-d shell. The experimental pairing gaps for the Sn isotopes are also obtained from calculations in the generalized seniority scheme using the same interaction. We find that the lower power of the density dependence associated with the SGII interaction is essential for obtaining realistic energy spectra in this wide range of mass.
Practices of Faith and Racial Integration in South Texas A Case Study of Mexican Segregation

The article presents a case study about the experience of segregation and the process of racial integration within a local Catholic church in South Texas. Following the ideology of segregation that...
X-ray intensity ratio ILαILℓ in the region 55 ⩽ Z ⩽ 94

Abstract The X-ray intensity ratio I L α I L l has been measured, using radioactive sources and high resolution Si(Li) X-ray detectors over a range of 55 ⩽ Z ⩽ 94. The theoretical ratios are found to be underestimated at low Z in the calculations of Scofield and of Rosner and Bhalla.
Reflection electron energy loss spectroscopy (reels): A technique for the study of surfaces

Abstract Electron energy loss spectroscopy is used in the glancing-angle reflection mode in conjunction with reflection electron microscopy as a technique for studying the composition and atomic coordination in surface layers of crystals. The resonance propagation of the electron beam along the top few atomic layers of the surface in the RHEED geometry results in the excitation of the surface states in MgO(100) and ensures sensitivity to the surface composition and structure. Results of ELNES and EXELFS analyses of the oxygen K edge for MgO(100) cleavage faces, and also the indications of an increase in O/Mg ratio at the surface relative to the bulk MgO, are consistent with a model of O atoms absorption over Mg ions.
Modulation of neuronal signal transduction and memory formation by synaptic zinc.

The physiological role of synaptic zinc has remained largely enigmatic since its initial detection in hippocampal mossy fibers over fifty years ago. The past few years have witnessed a number of studies highlighting the ability of zinc ions to regulate ion channels and intracellular signaling pathways implicated in neuroplasticity, and others that shed some light on the elusive role of synaptic zinc in learning and memory. Recent behavioral studies using knock out mice for the synapse-specific zinc transporter ZnT-3 indicate that vesicular zinc is required for the formation of memories dependent on the hippocampus and the amygdala, two brain centers that are prominently innervated by zinc-rich fibers. A common theme emerging from this research is the activity-dependent regulation of the Erk1/2 mitogen-activated-protein kinase pathway by synaptic zinc through diverse mechanisms in neurons. Here we discuss current knowledge on how synaptic zinc may play a role in cognition through its impact on neuronal signaling.
Linear systems analysis of infant visual pattern preferences

Karmel's check-pattern preference data for 13-week-old infants were reanalyzed using linear systems analysis. The two-dimensional Fourier amplitude spectrum was calculated for each of his eight checkerboard and random check patterns. The mean contrast sensitivity data for 3-month-old infants of Banks and Salapatek and the spatial frequency amplitudes of the patterns were used to derive three metrics to predict the looking times observed by Karmel. One was based on the sensitivity of the visual system to the single pattern component highest above threshold (maximum amplitude), the second was based on the total amount of pattern energy above threshold (total summation), and the third was based on the maximum amplitude with summation over nearby spatial frequency components (limited summation). The predictive power of the maximum amplitude and the total summation metrics depended on whether the pattern type was checkerboard or random check. The limited summation metric predicted looking times well for both pattern types. A linear function of the logarithm of the limited summation metric accounted for 91% of the total variance in looking time.
Outcomes of tamoxifen chemoprevention for breast cancer in very high-risk women: a cost-effectiveness analysis.

PURPOSE: To estimate the effects on survival, quality-adjusted survival, and health care costs of using tamoxifen for primary prevention in subgroups of women at very high risk for breast cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A decision analysis was performed using a hypothetical cohort of women that included subgroups with atypical hyperplasia, Gail risk greater than 5, lobular carcinoma-in-situ, or two or more first-degree relatives with breast cancer. Data sources were the Breast Cancer Prevention Trial, the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End-Results program, time trade-off preference ratings, the Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, and the United States Health Care Financing Administration. RESULTS: Our model predicted that tamoxifen would prolong the average survival of cohort members initiating use at ages 35, 50, and 60 years by 70, 42, and 27 days, respectively. It would prolong survival even more for those in the higher-risk groups, especially those with atypical hyperplasia (202, 89, and 45 days)....