cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Age‐Related Osteogenic Potential of Mesenchymal Stromal Stem Cells from Human Vertebral Bone Marrow

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) residing in bone marrow (BM) are the progenitors for osteoblasts and for several other cell types. In humans, the age-related decrease in bone mass could reflect decreased osteoblasts secondary to an age-related loss of osteoprogenitors. To test this hypothesis, BM cells were isolated from vertebral bodies of thoracic and lumbar spine (T1-L5) from 41 donors (16 women and 25 men) of various ages (3-70 years old) after death from traumatic injury. Primary cultures were grown in alpha modified essential medium with fetal bovine serum for 13 days until adherent cells formed colonies (CFU-Fs). Colonies that stained positive for alkaline phosphatase activity (CFU-F/ALP+) were considered to have osteogenic potential. BM nucleated cells were plated (0.5, 1, 2.5, 5, or 10 x 106 cells/10-cm dish) and grown in dexamethasone (Dex), which promotes osteoblastic differentiation. The optimal plating efficiency using BM-derived cells from donors of various ages was 5 x 106 cells/10-cm dish. BM-derived cells were also grown in the absence of Dex at this plating density. At the optimal plating density, in the presence of Dex, the number of CFU-F/ALP+ present in the BM of the younger donors (3-36 years old) was 66.2 +/- 9.6 per 106 cells (mean +/- SEM), but only 14.7 +/- 2.6 per 106 cells in the older donors (41-70 years old). With longer-term culture (4-5 weeks) of these BM cells in medium containing 10 mM beta-glycerophosphate and 100 microg/ml ascorbic acid, the extracellular matrix mineralized, a result consistent with mature osteoblastic function. These results demonstrate that the number of MSCs with osteogenic potential (CFU-F/ALP+) decreases early during aging in humans and may be responsible for the age-related reduction in osteoblast number. Our results are particularly important in that the vertebrae are a site of high turnover osteoporosis and, possibly, the earliest site of bone loss in age-related osteoporosis.
Kinetics of drug action: An overview

The intensity and time course of action of directly and reversibly acting drugs are related to and determined largely by the time course of drug and active drug metabolite concentrations in the body. When the pharmacokinetics and the concentration-effect relationship of a drug are known, it is often possible to predict the temporal pattern of its pharmacologic effect(s), including the maximum intensity and duration of action. Sites of action may not be immediately accessible to a drug even if it is injected intravenously; this may be reflected by a gradual increase in the intensity of effect despite decreasing drug concentrations in plasma, with maximum effects occurring later than maximum drug concentrations in plasma. Pharmacologic effects may persist well beyond the time when drug concentrations in plasma are no longer determinable; this is often caused by localization of the drug in an extravascular compartment. Drug distribution kinetics, pharmacologically active metabolites, and development of functional (as opposed to metabolic) tolerance may be responsible for time-dependent changes in drug concentration--pharmacologic effect relationships. Interindividual differences in patients' response to drug therapy may have a pharmacokinetic basis, a pharmacodynamic basis, or both. In clinical assessments of pharmacologic response, it is important to measure the therapeutically relevant effect, to determine interindividual and intraindividual variability, and to explore the possible influence of underlying diseases and other physiologic variables on drug concentration-effect relationships.
Constant Current Density Compression Behavior of 304 Stainless Steel and Ti-6Al-4V During Electrically-Assisted Forming

A metal forming technique which has more recently come of interest as an alternative to processes that use elevated temperatures at some stage during manufacturing is Electrically-Assisted Forming (EAF). EAF is a processing technique which applies electrical current through the workpiece concurrently while the material is being formed. At present, this method has only been studied on an experimental level in laboratory settings, and the heuristic results show increased fracture strain, reduced flow stress, and reduced springback; the enhanced process capability is beyond the range that would be expected from pure resistive heating alone. Thus far, when applying the electrical current through the workpiece during deformation, the current magnitude flowing through the workpiece has remained constant. Hence, for a compression loading, the current flux or density decreases as a result of an increasing specimen area. This work examines the effect of a non-constant current density (NCCD) and a constant current density (CCD) on the deformation behavior of 304 Stainless Steel and Ti-6Al-4V during uniaxial compression testing. Additionally, the application of a CCD is used to modify existing empirically-based EAF flow stress models for these materials. From this testing, it is shown that a CCD during forming can significantly reduce the flow stress of the material as compared to the NCCD tests. The reductions in the flow stress were increased at higher strains by approximately 30% and 15% for the 304 Stainless Steel and Ti-6Al-4V, respectively. More importantly, these flow stress curves are better representative of how the material responds to an applied electrical current as the specimen shape change is removed from the results. Also, the NCCD tests were approximated using an existing empirically-based EAF flow stress model and the CCD tests concluded that a new flow stress predictor model be introduced.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Asymmetric Information Bargaining Problems with Many Agents

A yes or no decision must be made about some issue. All agents must agree. The "Coase Theorem" asserts that the efficient outcome will always result. Suppose the value (positive or negative) that an individual attaches to an affirmative decision is privately known to that individual. It is proved, under very mild conditions, that with independent types, as the number of agents increases, the probability of an affirmative efficient decision goes to zero. An example in which it is common knowledge that an affirmative decision is efficient and yet the probability of such a decision goes to zero is given.
Proton Beam Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Malignancies

Proton beam radiation therapy (PBRT) has unique physical properties (e.g., Bragg Peak) that limit the amount of normal tissue irradiated in the head and neck region while maximizing the radiation delivered to the tumor. Radiation therapy is commonly used in both the primary and adjuvant setting for many head and neck malignancies. Limiting the unnecessary radiation to normal tissues within the head and neck region can result in a profound improvement in quality of life during and after treatment. Although PBRT was initially developed in the 1950s, recent technological advances have permitted the development of hospital-based facilities for proton delivery. PBRT has been shown to improve outcomes for patients with sinonasal tumors, chordomas, chondrosarcomas, ocular, and periocular malignancies. Further development of intensity-modulated proton therapy will permit comprehensive treatment for head and neck tumors.
An Exact Penalty Method for Mixed-Integer Programs

It is shown that a norm penalty method is exact for mixed integer programs in rational data, in the sense that the minimization of the criterion plus penalty over the nonnegativities and integrality constraints has the same set of globally optimal solutions as does the mixed integer program with the equality constraints present. This result is then extended to mixed-integer programs with complementarity constraints. An example shows that no differentiable penalty can be exact for mixed integer programs.
RecA homologs Dmc1 and Rad51 interact to form multiple nuclear complexes prior to meiotic chromosome synapsis

Dmc1 and Rad51, yeast homologs of the E. coli RecA protein, are shown by immunostaining to localize to as many as 64 sites within spread meiotic nuclei. Genetic requirements for this punctate pattern suggest it represents recombination intermediates. Dmc1 and Rad51 colocalize and are therefore likely to act together during recombination. Despite their similarities, the two proteins have specialized functions: Dmc1 complexes do not form in rad51 mutants, while Rad51 complexes are retained indefinitely in dmc1 mutants. Dmc1 and, by inference, Rad51 form complexes before synapsis as monitored by immunostaining for Zip1 protein. Analysis of zip1 mutants shows that Zip1 promotes dissociation of Dmc1 complexes. Colocalization of Dmc1 and Zip1 raises the possibility that Dmc1 and Rad51 are components of recombination nodules.
Myoclonic-Astatic Epilepsy in a Child With Sturge-Weber Syndrome

A child with Sturge-Weber syndrome and a left occipital leptomeningeal angioma developed focal seizures at 6 years of age that responded initially to oxcarbazepine. After 7 months of seizure freedom, the patient developed typical myoclonic-astatic seizures associated with generalized electrographic discharges, which worsened as oxcarbazepine was increased. The seizures and electroencephalogram improved dramatically in 3 weeks as the oxcarbazepine was withdrawn and valproic acid was initiated. This case demonstrates the importance of recognizing that children with epilepsy due to focal lesions can develop secondary bilateral synchrony that can be aggravated by medications that are effective for partial seizures. In such cases, treatment with a broad-spectrum antiepileptic may be advantageous.
Copying list structures using bounded workspace

Two new algorithms are presented for list structure copying using bounded workspace. The first, of primarily theoretical interest, shows that without cell tag bits the task can be performed in time n2. The second algorithm, assuming one tag bit in each cell, delivers attractive practical speed. Any noncyclic structure is copied in linear speed, while cyclic structures are copied in average time less than n log n. No foreknowledge of cycle absence is necessary to achieve linear speed. A variation of the second algorithm solves an open problem concerning list structure marking. That result demonstrates that marking can be done in average time n log n without the aid of supplemental tag bits or stacks.
African Science Leaders Focus on Key Challenges and Opportunities

While dozens of African presidents were in Washington, D. C., in early August to meet with U.S. president Barack Obama during the first U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, African science ministers and science academy officials held their own gathering at the U.S. National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to focus on challenges and opportunities related to environmental protection, climate change, development, health, poverty, technology, and other issues.
Nuclear Deoxyribonucleic Acid Metabolism and Membrane Fatty Acid Content Related to Chilling Resistance in Germinating Cotton (Gossypium barbadense)

Chilling damage was examined in the chilling-sensitive plant Gossypium barbadense. Between 30 and 36 h of germination at 34°C, the seedlings are extremely sensitive to temperatures below 10°C. The initiation of chilling damage by exposure to 2°C for 5 h during the sensitive period resulted in a large reduction in DNA synthesis. The reduction was correlated with a reduced efficiency of nuclear DNA polymerase activity. Comparing a more chilling resistant genotype to a more sensitive variety indicated that the resistant genotype nuclear DNA polymerase activity is more efficient when exposed to a chilling stress. Resistance was also correlated with a higher degree of unsaturated fatty acid content in the nuclear membranes of the resistant variety.
Yoga as an Alternative and Complementary Therapy for Patients Suffering From Anxiety: A Systematic Review

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common psychiatric disorders plaguing the United States. Comorbidities include depression, restless leg syndrome, cancer, and hypertension. The side effects an...
Demonstrating the World Wide Web as an academic research tool

ACADEMIC LIBRARIANS, as experienced World Wide Web (WWW) users, are well-positioned to demonstrate the benefits of using the Web to do scholarly research. College administrators and faculty may be skeptical about the usefulness of the Internet for academic research and reluctant to use the tool as a way to enhance their traditional methods of professional inquiry. As a means of addressing this problem, we prepared an introduction to the Web for an audience of the Chief Academic Officers at our University and include in this article the HTML code which readers can modify to meet local needs.
Hydrogen bond lifetimes and energetics for solute/solvent complexes studied with 2D-IR vibrational echo spectroscopy.

Weak π hydrogen-bonded solute/solvent complexes are studied with ultrafast two-dimensional infrared (2D-IR) vibrational echo chemical exchange spectroscopy, temperature-dependent IR absorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations. Eight solute/solvent complexes composed of a number of phenol derivatives and various benzene derivatives are investigated. The complexes are formed between the phenol derivative (solute) in a mixed solvent of the benzene derivative and CCl4. The time dependence of the 2D-IR vibrational echo spectra of the phenol hydroxyl stretch is used to directly determine the dissociation and formation rates of the hydrogen-bonded complexes. The dissociation rates of the weak hydrogen bonds are found to be strongly correlated with their formation enthalpies. The correlation can be described with an equation similar to the Arrhenius equation. The results are discussed in terms of transition state theory.
An autonomous ground explorer utilizing a vision-based approach to indoor navigation

We introduce a vision system based approach to autonomous navigation and mapping in an indoor environment. Our goal is to eventually use a common processing system that relies on using airborne and ground vehicles. This paper presents our initial results for a ground vehicle and demonstrates the potential of the vision based system for a solution that combines airborne vehicles with ground vehicles. The Autonomous Ground Explorer (AGE) described here serves as a test vehicle to validate the algorithms that will be integrated into our aerial vehicle that is under development. The ground explorer uses only vision (three basic web cameras augmented with simple laser pointers) to efficiently move within building corridors. It can estimate distance in three directions by evaluating the location of laser points within its fields of vision. The ground explorer navigates hallways and makes directional decisions based on the following processes: tracking the corridor's visual vanishing point, anticipating intersections using odometry and corner edge detection, identifying and classifying intersections based on distance measurements and vanishing points, and completing controlled turns based on a confidence factor in its location on a calculated route within a simplified topological map. Experimental results show the effectiveness of our approach and the promise of our combined ground/aerial system concept.
A Recursive Model of Consumption: The Case of Taiwan's Farm Families, 1964–66

This paper presents an empirical study of the consumption behavior of Taiwan's farm families, 1964-66, using a recursive model of consumption which links farm families' consumption behavior to their income-generating behavior. Three problems are considered. The economy of Taiwan has experienced a remarkable increase in its rate of national savings since 1960.1 With the data available, it is possible to investigate how much the farm sector could have contributed to national savings out of its incremental income. It is usually asserted that Taiwan is overpopulated and this might have weakened its savings potential for development.2 When certain criteria of overpopulation are used, it is possible to investigate whether the farm sector of Taiwan is overpopulated. Finally, it is usually argued in development literature that the demonstration effect on consumption is an adverse factor to savings potential of developing economies. Whether a significant demonstration effect exists in the case of Taiwan's farm families can also be studied.
Primary colonic plasmacytoma.

A case of extramedullary plasmacytoma of the colon is presented. This rare tumor should be included in the differential diagnosis of space-occupying lesions of the large bowel. Its relationship to multiple myeloma is uncertain. Some extramedullary plasmacytomas are apparently capable of paraprotein production. This was not observed in this case and is an area needing further investigation. Eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions, similar to those previously reported in multiple myeloma and macroglobulinemia of Waldenstrom, were present.
Evidence for a single pool of myo-inositol in hormone-responsive WRK-1 cells.

Previous reports have suggested the existence of at least two pools of cellular myo-inositol (Ins); it has been further hypothesized that only one of these pools is utilized during hormone-activated, cyclic phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns) resynthesis. In an effort to investigate this possibility, we have undertaken kinetic studies of Ins metabolism in WRK-1 cells. Our results indicate that a single pool of Ins is involved in both basal and activated PtdIns synthesis. Ins generated by the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdInsP2) mixes with the existing pool of free Ins and is not used exclusively for resynthesis of PtdIns. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
INTERACTIONS OF NEUROTENSIN WITH BRAIN DOPAMINE SYSTEMS

For over a decade, our research group has studied the role of peptides in the central nervous system (CNS). In particular, we have concentrated for the last six years on characterizing the pharmacological and behavioral effects of neurotensin (NT), the tridecapeptide about which this conference has been organized. In recent years, we have increasingly focused our attention on interactions of NT and brain dopamine (DA) systems and our findings, as well as those of others, form the theme of this review. Certain aspects of this subject are also discussed by Kalivas et al.' and by Prange and NemeroffZ in this volume. As described by Luttinger et ~ 1 . ~ in this volume, our early work with centrally administered NT was concerned with characterizing the effects of the peptide on the actions of two centrally acting depressants, pentobarbital and ethanol. The peptide significantly enhanced both pentobarbitaland ethanol-induced sleeping time and ethanol-induced hypothermia. In subsequent studies, reviewed by Bissette et ~ 1 . ~ in this volume, our group demonstrated that injection of NT into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) produced a potent hypothermia in a variety of mammals. In later studies it was shown that reduction in the functional activity of brain DA induced either by haloperidol (receptor blockade) or by 6-hydroxydopamine (DA neuronal destruction) results in a marked potentiation of NT-induced hypothermia in rats5 (FIG 1). Subsequently, Bissette et ~ 1 . ~ demonstrated that NT-induced hypothermia in mice is antagonized by the indirect DA agonists methylphenidate and d-amphetamine. While we were characterizing the effects of DA antagonists and agonists on NT-induced hypothermia, Rivier et ~ 1 . ~ reported that intravenously administered NT produced a significant increase in plasma prolactin levels, a characteristic effect of DA antagonists. These findings, along with others (see refs. 8-10), illustrate the pharmacological properties that are shared by NT and neuroleptic drugs, all of which are DA receptor blockers. Moreover, brain NT and DA perikarya and terminals are found in close proximity in a variety of brain regions (e.g., nucleus accumbens, ventral tegmentum, and hypothalamus). These observations commanded a closer examination of NT-DA interactions.
In vivo detection of acute rat renal allograft rejection by MRI with USPIO particles.

In vivo detection of acute rat renal allograft rejection by MRI with USPIO particles. Background Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for non-invasively detecting renal rejection was developed by monitoring the accumulation of macrophages labeled with dextran-coated ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO) particles at the rat renal allografts during acute rejection. Methods Five groups of male rats with DA→BN renal allografts and one group with BN→BN renal isografts were investigated by MRI before, immediately after, and 24hr after intravenous infusion with different doses of USPIO particles. All infusions were done on post-operative day 4. MRI experiments were carried out in a 4.7-Tesla instrument using a gradient echo sequence. Results MR signal intensity (MRSI) of the cortex was found to decrease with higher dosages of USPIO particles. In the absence of USPIO infusion, a decrease in MRSI was seen in the medulla region, presumably due to hemorrhage associated with renal graft rejection, while no significant change was observed in the cortex. The optimal dose of USPIO particles for visualizing rejection-associated changes in our rat kidney model appears to be 6mg Fe/kg body weight. Iron staining results correlated with the MRSI data, indicating that the signal reduction in the MR images was due to the presence of iron. Immunohistochemical results indicated that USPIO particles were mostly taken up by infiltrating macrophages in the rejecting grafts. Conclusions Our results suggest that MRI with intravenous administration of dextran-coated USPIO particles appears to be a valuable and promising tool that can be used as a non-invasive and sensitive method to detect graft rejection in renal transplantation.
Demarcating designations: Chartered Financial Analyst and Certified Financial Planner

Financial planning service professionals seek certifications in order to gain the necessary skills for their profession, to establish professional credibility, and to validate their knowledge base. This research provides insight and guidance for financial service professionals considering attainment of a professional designation as well as those who already hold such a designation by examining the differences and similarities between two financial analysis/planning designations: the Chartered Financial Analyst (having earned the CFA designation) and the Certified Financial Planner (having earned the CFP certification); 272 professionals who hold both designations were surveyed. The research showed that although some overlap exists, the skills, expertise and target market of these two designations remain quite distinct in terms of what they emphasise and whom they target.
MARs mission update.

Abstract Genes are organized as chromatin domains and positioned in the nucleus through regions of nuclear matrix association, termed MARs. Although well-studied, the mechanisms regulating expression of the β-globin locus remain an enigma. Here, we show that certain MAR sequences of the β-globin locus are conserved and reiterated throughout the genome in association with other genes of the hematopoietic lineage. Further, the density of the MARs within the β-globin locus and the sharing of these sequences by the various members of this gene cluster suggest that they may provide critical gene regulatory components.
Sex and age differences in the relation of depressive symptoms with blood pressure.

background Longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and blood pressure have been inconsistent. Most studies have examined incident hypertension as an outcome, and few have examined effect modification. methods This study examined moderating influences of sex and age on coinci dent trajectories of depressive symptoms and blood pressure among 2,087 participants from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (aged 19–97 years; 53% men; 74% white). Participants underwent clinical blood pressure measurement and completed the Center for Epidemiological Studies–Depression (CES-D) scale on up to 14 occasions (mean = 3.8; SD = 2.6) over up to 29 years (mean = 7.8; SD = 6.4). CES-D was log-transformed (CES-D(log)) for analyses. results Mixed-effects regression revealed that prospective relations of CESD(log) to diastolic blood pressure differed by age in women (b = 0.095; P = 0.001) but not men; greater CES-D(log) attenuated the expected age-related decline in diastolic blood pressure. Across all testing sessions, greater CES-D(log) was associated significantly with higher average systolic blood pressure for women (b = 2.238; P = 0.006) but not men. Age-stratified analyses showed that greater CES-D(log) was associated significantly with higher average systolic (b = 3.348; P = 0.02) and diastolic (b = 1.730; P < 0.03) blood pressure for older adults (≥58.8 years at first visit). In the younger age cohort, sex moderated the relation of CES-D(log) to systolic blood pressure (b = −3.563; P = 0.007); greater CES-D(log) in women, but lesser CES-D(log) in men, was associated with higher systolic blood pressure. conclusions Results demonstrate sex and age differences in the relation between depressive symptoms and blood pressure. Findings suggest the potential importance of preventing, detecting, and lowering depressive symptoms to prevent hypertension among women and older adults.
Bounded-skew clock and Steiner routing

We study the minimum-cost bounded-skew routing tree problem under the pathlength (linear) and Elmore delay models. This problem captures several engineering tradeoffs in the design of routing topologies with controlled skew. Our bounded-skew routing algorithm, called the BST/DME algorithm, extends the DME algorithm for exact zero-skew trees via the concept of a merging region. For a prescribed topology, BST/DME constructs a bounded-skew tree (BST) in two phases: (i) a bottom-up phase to construct a binary tree of merging regions which represent the loci of possible embedding points of the internal nodes, and (ii) a top-down phase to determine the exact locations of the internal nodes. We present two approaches to construct the merging regions: (i) the Boundary Merging and Embedding (BME) method which utilizes merging points that are restricted to the boundaries of merging regions, and (ii) the Interior Merging and Embedding (IME) algorithm which employs a sampling strategy and a dynamic programming-based selection technique to consider merging points that are interior to, as well as on the boundary of, the merging regions. When the topology is not prescribed, we propose a new Greedy-BST/DME algorithm which combines the merging region computation with topology generation. The Greedy-BST/DME algorithm very closely matches the best known heuristics for the zero-skew case and for the unbounded-skew case (i.e., the Steiner minimal tree problem). Experimental results show that our BST algorithms can produce a set of routing solutions with smooth skew and wire length tradeoffs.
Rejoinder to JoAnn Phillion

I believe that many readers of "Teaching and Testimony" will be as puzzled by Phillion's collection of criticisms as I was. I will respond to each. 1 and 3: The entire essay is a reflective analysis of my teaching. I am critical of my teaching on a number of grounds and discuss at length how, in my view, my teaching and thinking about teaching changed in significant ways over time, in part in response to my reflections. Phillion quotes the student who expressed fear of speaking in class and being attacked for it. She then writes, "A more reflective stance on Berlak's part may have led her to puzzle over this student's comment" (p. 134). Never mind that I used
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of sibutramine for clozapine-associated weight gain

Objective: Weight gain is commonly observed with olanzapine treatment and can increase the risk for obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. This study examined the effectiveness of sibutramine, an approved weight loss agent, in overweight and obese subjects taking olanzapine for schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Method: Each subject had a DSM-IV diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, had been taking a stable dose of olanzapine for at least 4 months, and had a body mass index of ≥30 kg/m 2 or ≥27 kg/m 2 plus at least one cardiovascular risk factor. In a 12-week double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 37 subjects received placebo or sibutramine (up to 15 mg/day). For the first 8 weeks all subjects participated in weekly group sessions focused on nutrition and behavioral modification. Results: The sibutramine and placebo groups had no significant baseline differences on age, gender, education, ethnicity, diagnosis, weight, body mass index, and blood pressure. At week 12 the sibutramine group had significantly greater losses than the placebo group in weight (mean=8.3 lb, SD=2.4, versus mean=1.8 lb, SD=1.6), waist circumference, body mass index, and hemoglobin A1c. There were no significant differences on most side effects, although the sibutramine group exhibited a mean increase in systolic blood pressure of 2.1 mm Hg (SD= 8.5), and anticholinergic side effects and sleep disturbances were at least twice as common in the sibutramine group. Conclusions: Sibutramine was an effective and well-tolerated adjunct to behavior modification for weight loss in patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder being treated with olanzapine.
Young adult outcomes of the Abecedarian and CARE early childhood educational interventions

Abstract Adult benefits for participants in Project CARE were compared with those of the Abecedarian Project, a closely related randomized study of early childhood educational intervention for children from low-income families who were at risk of developmental delays and school failure. CARE replicated Abecedarian's young adult treatment-related educational and vocational attainment gains. CARE data also supported the Abecedarian reduction in marijuana use. Treated individuals in both studies reported adopting a more active life style. The average age at birth of a first child, the number of children, and the proportion of teen parents were positively affected in the Abecedarian sample but not in CARE. Finding significant educational and vocational gains lasting into young adulthood in the CARE study reinforces Abecedarian young adult findings and strengthens the case for early childhood intervention for children from low-income families.
D region electron profiles observed with substantial spatial and temporal change near thunderstorms

Broadband lightning signals are used to probe the D region ionosphere with a temporal resolution of 5 min and a spatial resolution of ~50 × 50 km. Together with a full wave propagation model, this technique allows determination of the reference height, h′, and steepness parameter, β, of an exponential electron density profile sensitive to the range of 106–108 electrons/m3. Daytime and nighttime background electron profiles away from thunderstorms are presented, as well as profiles from three regions nearby and atop thunderstorms. The average daytime profile parameters are found to be h′ = 67.7 km with a standard deviation of 0.9 km and β = 0.7 km−1 with a standard deviation of 0.1 km−1. Average nighttime parameters are h′ = 80.9 km with a standard deviation of 1.3 km and β = 2.8 km−1 with a standard deviation of 0.2 km−1. Nighttime electron profiles nearby and atop thunderstorms show slightly higher values of h′ (82.5–84.2 km) and significantly lower values of β (0.9–1.5 km−1). These findings indicate that there is significant electron depletion above ~80 km near and atop thunderstorms during the nighttime. Detailed analysis also shows substantial profile variations in space and time related to lightning discharges due to localized electron enhancement at high altitudes and reduction at lower altitudes. Nevertheless, the general depletion at higher altitudes appears to be related to the overall electrical behavior of the thunderstorm but not directly to lightning activity.
The Non-ocularity of Racine's “Vision”

Contrary to the reiterations of long-established critical stance, the Racinian tragic is the prescriptive resultant of a non-transparent, polyvalent operation of fusion and depolarization, geared to produce and sustain an idiolect of measured distortion and a dialectic of disorientation. While metaphoricity is a central component of this poetic network, its patterns and sequences, encoded functions as both mechanism of unification and agent of disjunction and primary role as non-literal “anti-communicant” can be adequately decoded only within the context of their integral systematization. Thus, commonly-practiced modes of restrictive metaphorical breakdown/interpretation almost necessarily engender faulty exegesis and textual disfiguration. As reaffirmation and exemplum of the foregoing premises, the present study proposes an examination of the manipulatory, quasisemiotic status of sensorial/non-sensorial phenomena in Racine's tragedies, with due emphasis accorded to the delicate integration of this “sphere” of expression into the larger plexus of Racinian poetics.
Latino/a Immigrant Children's Drawings and Writings.

This article shares children's drawings and writings reflecting immigration border-crossing experiences in south Texas, USA. The authors present the children's drawings as well as their narratives, relying on the work of Robert Coles and the authors' own intuitive Latina/Xicana lenses. The authors' intent is to pursue the possibility of future inquiry with ameliorative intentions for increasing numbers of young immigrant children.
The stability of second-order quadratic differential equations

This paper investigates the stability properties of second-order systems. \dot{x} = f(x) , where f(x) contains either quadratic terms-system (1)-or linear and quadratic terms-system (2)-in x . The principal contributions are summarized in two theorems which give necessary, and sufficient conditions for stability and asymptotic stability in the large of systems (1) and (2), respectively.
Something Old, Something New: Hungarian Marriage Patterns in Historical Perspective:

Marriage patterns are probably the most sensitive to changes in social norms or economic structure, and closely follow the development path of a society. This study investigates the changing trends of nuptiality in Hungary from the late-nineteenth to the early-twenty-first century. With the help of Hungarian historical statistical data, changes are presented from the perspective of broader socioeconomic development over time, during which Hungary has turned from a predominantly agrarian society into a modern urban one. This study provides a historical demographic overview of a country where state intervention in the social norms and collective behavior was itself a norm for a long time.
Incidence and Severity of Phlebitis in Patients Receiving Peripherally Infused Amiodarone

BACKGROUND Nurses noted that the rate of phlebitis was high when intravenous amiodarone was infused via a peripheral site. Hospital policy recommends a central vascular catheter, but this method is often not feasible because the drug is administered in emergent situations for short periods. OBJECTIVE To determine the rate and severity of phlebitis in patients given peripherally infused amiodarone. METHODS The literature, policy, and procedures for administration of amioda rone were reviewed; the pharmacy was consulted; and a data collection tool was developed. The tool was pilot tested and revised, and face validation was established. Data were collected during a 6-month period. A convenience sample was used. RESULTS The study included a total of 12 patients. Each new infusion of intravenous amiodarone was considered a separate occurrence, for a total of 24 infusions. Various grades of phlebitis developed in 8 patients (67%). Phlebitis developed at 12 of the 24 infusion sites (50%). CONCLUSIONS Patients receiving peripherally infused amiodarone are at high risk for phlebitis. This complication may lead to infection, additional medical intervention, delay in treatment, and prolonged hospitalization. (Critical Care Nurse.
Novel core promoter elements in the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora infestans and their influence on expression detected by genome-wide analysis.

Background: The core promoter is the region flanking the transcription start site (TSS) that directs formation of the pre-initiation complex. Core promoters have been studied intensively in mammals and yeast, but not in more diverse eukaryotes. Here we investigate core promoters in oomycetes, a group within the Stramenopile kingdom that includes important plant and animal pathogens. Prior studies of a small collection of genes proposed that oomycete core promoters contain a 16 to 19 nt motif bearing an Initiator-like sequence (INR) flanked by a novel sequence named FPR, but this has not been extended to whole-genome analysis. Results: We used expectation maximization to find over-represented motifs near TSSs of Phytophthora infestans, the potato blight pathogen. The motifs corresponded to INR, FPR, and a new element found about 25 nt downstream of the TSS called DPEP. TATA boxes were not detected. Assays of DPEP function by mutagenesis were consistent with its role as a core motif. Genome-wide searches found a well-conserved combined INR+FPR in only about 13% of genes after correcting for false discovery, which contradicted prior reports that INR and FPR are found together in most genes. INR or FPR were found alone near TSSs in 18% and 7% of genes, respectively. Promoters lacking the motifs had pyrimidine-rich regions near the TSS. The combined INR+FPR motif was linked to higher than average mRNA levels, developmentally-regulated transcription, and functions related to plant infection, while DPEP and FPR were over-represented in constitutively-expressed genes. The INR, FPR, and combined INR+FPR motifs were detected in other oomycetes including Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis, Phytophthora sojae, Pythium ultimum, and Saprolegnia parasitica, while DPEP was found in all but S. parasitica. Only INR seemed present in a non-oomycete stramenopile. Conclusions: The absence of a TATA box and presence of novel motifs show that the oomycete core promoter is diverged from that of model systems, and likely explains the lack of activity of non-oomycete promoters in Phytophthora transformants. The association of the INR+FPR motif with developmentally-regulated genes shows that oomycete core elements influence stage-specific transcription in addition to regulating formation of the preinitiation complex.
The Irvine Paraprof essional Program Promising Practice for Serving Students with ADHD

The Irvine Paraprofessional Program (IPP) looks promising for serving elementary-school children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the general education classroom. This article describes the components of the IPP, preliminary research studies that support its efficacy, and the benefits of the model. The IPP is a 12-week intensive intervention that includes (a) direct intervention to children with ADHD by specially trained paraprofessionals, (b) teacher consultation by the school psychologist on the use of effective classroom management strategies, (c) school-based reinforcement, and (d) social skills training. Preliminary studies suggest that paraprofessionals can effect positive changes in children with ADHD that can be maintained by the teacher once the paraprofessional is removed from the classroom. The purpose of this article is to provide a description of the IPP as an effective model for serving children with ADHD in the general education classroom.
Parental consent for pediatric research.

A physician defends her position that children should only participate in clinical trials when they have child assent and the parents also have been educated about the purpose of the research when there is no direct benefit to the child. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
The Asian-American Healthcare Market - Problems and Prospects

On the basis of an exploratory research study, this paper highlights certain healthcare opportunities and challenges which the rapidly growing Asian American community in the United States creates.
The Role of Cultural Entrepreneurship and Website Design in Cultural Identity Restoration

In this paper, we employ a hermeneutic approach to examine the question: How do cultural productions of websites enable enactments of cultural entrepreneurship in Native American groups? We find support for the notion that although technology adoption has traditionally occurred parallel to globalization and aided in assimilation, tribal organizations are now using technology for cultural identity restoration.
Peer relationships and internally persuasive discourse

Abstract This study explored Bakhtin's theories of dialogism focusing on the concept of internally persuasive discourse in a group of five 4- to 5-year-old children, when they engage in conversations about the theory of the cello's sound production in a naturalistic preschool setting. The author conducted participant-observation in the conversations with the children, minimizing authority on the flow of conversations to allow internally persuasive discourse among them. The findings of qualitative analyses, based upon the grounded theory approach (Glaser & Strauss, 1967), generated three themes: 1) recognizing new pals that have similar ideas as mine [the child's]; 2) dealing with conflicting ideas between best friends; 3) continuing peer interaction to understand and test different ideas. The current study has implications for an early childhood educator's endeavor to build a respectful and intellectually rigorous classroom environment for young children.
Phylogenetic Relationships of the Genus Aegla (Decapoda: Anomura: Aeglidae), With Comments on Anomuran Phylogeny

ABSTRACT Anomuran decapods in the family Aeglidae are ecologically and morphologically distinct from other members of the Galatheoidea (Galatheidae, Chirostylidae, Porcellanidae). Among the morphological characters distinguishing aeglids from other galatheoids are several characters seen in the hermit crab families (Paguroidea). The hypothesis that aeglids are members of the Paguroidea rather than the Galatheoidea was tested using numerical phenetic and cladistic methods. Fifty-four morphological and ecological characters were scored for all families that are now or have been previously included among the Anomura. Aeglids are shown to be primitive members of the Galatheoidea, in accordance with traditional classifications of the Anomura, although other traditional groupings within the Anomura are questioned. A proposed hypothesis of anomuran phylogeny separates thalassinoids from Anomura sensu stricto, places aeglids with other galatheoids, and removes lithodids and Lomis from the paguroid line. The need for increased and improved basic morphological monographs of decapod families is stressed.
12 C( 12 C, α) 20 Ne excitation functions and angular distributions

Excitation functions have been measured at a laboratory angle of 5\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} over an incident energy range of 18-25.5 MeV (c.m.) for the $^{12}\mathrm{C}(^{12}\mathrm{C}, \ensuremath{\alpha})$ reaction leading to about 30 levels in $^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$ (${E}_{x}=0\ensuremath{-}20$ MeV). Angular distributions were measured at five energies. An Ericson fluctuation analysis yields the result that most levels are populated by a large nonstatistical reaction component. A significant compound-nuclear component is also present, with correlation widths on the order of 150-250 keV (c.m.). The energy-averaged cross sections have been compared with statistical compound-nuclear (Hauser-Feshbach) calculations. This comparison indicates the presence of a strong direct-reaction mechanism, especially for the members of the proposed 8p-4h band (at 7.196, 7.834, 9.040, and 12.16 MeV). A pronounced minimum in the excitation functions is evident at ${E}_{\mathrm{c}.\mathrm{m}.}=19.2$ MeV, near the recently reported strong resonance in the $^{12}\mathrm{C}(^{12}\mathrm{C}, p)^{23}\mathrm{Na}$ channel. Other correlated effects also appear to be present at specific energies, but the cross correlations, calculated for the entire energy range, are largely statistical.NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{12}\mathrm{C}(^{12}\mathrm{C}, \ensuremath{\alpha})$, 5\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} yield curves ${E}_{^{12}\mathrm{C}} 36\ensuremath{-}51$ MeV, angular distribution 37, 41, 45, 48, and 51 MeV, statistical analyses.
Uptake Capacity of Different Rice Genotypes for Lead and Cadmium from Soil

This study investigated the differences of 20 rice genotypes (10 maintainers and 10 restorers) selected in Sichuan in their capability in uptake of the added Pb and Cd from soil and in their distribution between the straw and the seed in a pot trial. Results showed that under the pollution of Pb or Cd, there were remarkable differences among different genotypes. The Y11 appeared highest resistance to uptake of Pb without any Pb detected in the seed-least transferable material for Pb from the straw to the seed and the Y16 was highly resistant to uptake of Cd with only 0.15 mg·kg-1, producing high quality rice superior to the Pollution-Free Standard for Rice (NY5115-2002) in China. The most vulnerable materials to Pb pollution were Y07 and Y17 and those to Cd were Y07, Y05 and Y17. All the rice materials tended to accumulate more Cd than Pb. The restorer lines showed higher resistance to uptake of Pb or Cd than the maintainer lines.
Analysis of Death Tendency Of Malignant Tumor Among Urban Residents In Anqing City From 2003 To 2008

Objective To analyze demography characteristics of malignant tumor deaths among urban residents in Anqing from 2003 to 2008,and provide scientific evidence for the prevention and control of malignant tumor.MethodsThe death causes of urban residents were classified according to International Classification of Diseases(ICD-10).Based on the population composition of nationwide census in 2000,the demographic data were standardized,the mortality rate,the standard mortality rate(SMR) and the potential years of life lost(PYLL) were calculated.Results From 2003 to 2008,the annual average mortality rate and the SMR of malignant tumor were 156.03/ lakh and 150.59/lakh respectively.The SMR of malignant tumor was 198.11/lakh in males and 99.67/lakh in females,the former was obviously higher than the latter(p0.01).Looked at the mortality rate,the top sixth kinds of malignant tumor were gastric cancer,lung cancer,esophageal cancer,liver cancer,colo-rectal cancer and leukemia respectively.The PYLL of liver cancer rose to second place,and the PYLL of leukemia rose to the fifth.Malignant tumor mainly occurred in people over 50 years old,and the mortality rate increased obviously with age increasing.Conclusion Malignant tumor was the first in the death-cause order among urban residents in Anqing city,and seriously affected the life and health of the residents,so we should enhance monitoring and research of malignant tumor,and take some measures actively for prevention and control.
The special status of color in pragmatic reasoning: evidence from a language game.

In current approaches to pragmatic reasoning the comprehension and production of referring expressions is modeled as a result of the interlocutors’ mutual perspective-taking. While such models of pragmatic reasoning have been empirically validated in referential language games experiments, empirical (and computational) work on the generation of referring expressions has shown that speakers do not always take the listener’s perspective into account, but instead produce referring expressions according to their own preferences. One particularly well studied example is color: speakers often include color terms in their referring expressions even if they do not help identify the intended referent. We show that like speakers, listeners treat color differently from other properties like e.g. size. Our results suggest that listeners do not seem to perform much pragmatic reasoning when the referring expression only expresses color, but instead follow a simple saliencebased heuristic.