cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
What factors influence the quality of governance institutions? An Asian perspective

Abstract This paper focuses on the process by which the quality of institutions has changed in developing Asia. It is argued that much institutional change is the result of a slow, piecemeal, evolutionary process that is often set in motion via changes in economic policy. Specifically, the quality of particular governance institutions is often dependent on economic policy. Various measures of governance institutional quality, for eleven developing countries in Asia, constructed by the World Bank are used to empirically test the hypothesis. The results of the estimations indicate that policies related to enhancing agricultural labor productivity, reducing dependence on natural resources, and increasing school enrollments have been most important in terms of positively influencing the quality of governance institutions developing Asia.
Placenta-derived macaque trophoblast stem cells: differentiation to syncytiotrophoblasts and extravillous trophoblasts reveals phenotypic reprogramming

Nonhuman primates are excellent models for studying human placentation as experimental manipulations in vitro can be translated to in vivo pregnancy. Our objective was to develop macaque trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) as an in vitro platform for future assessment of primate trophoblast development and function. Macaque TSC lines were generated by isolating first and second trimester placental villous cytotrophoblasts followed by culture in TSC medium to maintain cellular proliferation. TSCs grew as mononuclear colonies, whereas upon induction of syncytiotrophoblast (ST) differentiation multinuclear structures appeared, indicative of syncytium formation. Chorionic gonadotropin secretion was > 4000-fold higher in ST culture media compared to TSC media. The secretion of chorionic gonadotropin by TSC-derived ST reflects a reprogramming of macaque TSCs to an earlier pregnancy phenotype. Characteristic trophoblast hallmarks were defined in TSCs and ST including expression of C19MC miRNAs and the macaque placental nonclassical MHC class I molecule, Mamu-AG. Extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) were derived that express macaque EVT markers Mamu-AG and CD56, and also secrete high levels of MMP2. Our analyses of macaque TSCs suggests that these cells represent a proliferative, self-renewing population capable of differentiating to STs and EVTs in vitro thereby establishing an experimental model of primate placentation.
Making mechanistic sense: are we teaching students what they need to know?

Abstract Evaluating learning outcomes depends upon objective and actionable measures of what students know – that is, what can they do with what they have learned. In the context of a developmental biology course, a capstone of many molecular biology degree programs, I asked students to predict the behaviors of temporal and spatial signaling gradients. Their responses led me to consider an alternative to conventional assessments, namely a process in which students are asked to build and apply plausible explanatory mechanistic models (“PEMMs”). A salient point is not whether students' models are correct, but whether they “work” in a manner consistent with underlying scientific principles. Analyzing such models can reveal the extent to which students recognize and accurately apply relevant ideas. An emphasis on model building, analysis and revision, an authentic scientific practice, can be expected to have transformative effects on course and curricular design as well as on student engagement and learning outcomes.
Effect of neuromuscular block on surgical conditions during short-duration paediatric laparoscopic surgery involving a supraglottic airway.

Abstract Background Use of an LMA ProSeal™ laryngeal mask airway (P-LMA; Teleflex) with no neuromuscular block is considered a safe alternative to tracheal intubation in short-duration paediatric laparoscopic surgery. However, few studies have evaluated surgical conditions of short-duration paediatric laparoscopic surgery using this anaesthetic technique. We assessed surgical conditions for paediatric laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair using P-LMA with and without neuromuscular block. Methods Sixty-six patients undergoing laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair were randomised to receive a neuromuscular block (train-of-four 1–2 twitches) using rocuronium or no neuromuscular block with the P-LMA. All operations were performed by the same surgeon who determined the surgical conditions using the Leiden-surgical rating scale (L-SRS). Secondary outcomes included perioperative data, haemodynamics, and adverse events. Results Neuromuscular block improved surgical conditions compared with no neuromuscular block: mean (standard deviation) L-SRS 4.1 (0.5) vs 3.5 (0.6), respectively (P Conclusions Neuromuscular block significantly improved surgical conditions and reduced the incidence of adverse events during surgery and anaesthesia when an LMA Proseal™ was used in short-duration paediatric laparoscopic surgery. Clinical trial registration ChiCTR2000038529.
Improving Entrepreneurial Competencies in the Classroom

The entrepreneurial competencies literature posits that nascent entrepreneurs can be taught skilled behaviors to improve the efficacy of entrepreneurial activities. Recently, Morris et al. (2013) demonstrated that 9 of 13 entrepreneurial competencies were improved for 40 students after a six-week international consulting project. The current study explores whether the same competencies can be developed in a classroom setting. Using a quasi-experimental design with a sample of undergraduate students, we conducted pre- and post-tests of entrepreneurial competencies and found that students enrolled in an Entrepreneurial Thinking course increased competencies in 6 of 13 areas.
Rotor design for 2 Pole Bearingless Interior Permanent Magnet Slice motor

This paper presents a novel rotor design and its performance evaluation for a two pole interior permanent magnet (IPM) bearingless motor. A previous base case design was targeted at achieving specified torque along with a balance of force along the d and q axis to control the levitation. However, this design has a significant cogging torque which affects the motor as well as bearing operation. This paper presents a refined rotor design to reduce the cogging torque while maintaining force and torque capabilities. While operational, motor currents can apply force to the rotor even under slightly off centered condition. As an effort to improve the operation of the base motor, an algorithm is used and evaluated to decouple these forces from motor currents. Some of the design iterations performed using finite element simulations are shown and the performance of the final modified design is discussed and compared with the base design using experimental and simulation results. The performance of the decoupling algorithm is also tested on experimental setup and the results are discussed.
Evaluation of sign language learning tools: Understanding features for improved collaboration and communication between a parent and a child

i CHAPTER 1 1 Problem Statement 1 Author Bias 6 CHAPTER 2 9 Components for Consideration for Educational Software 9 Age 10 Fun 12 Challenge 12 Fantasy 13 Storytelling 14 Presentation 15 Adaptability 15 Personalization 16 User activity and feedback 16 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community 17 Sensitivity to deaf culture 21 Sign Language 22 Importance of Technological Applications in the Deaf Community 26 Impacts of Technology Utilized as a Teaching Tool for ASL 27 Tactics for Teaching ASL to Parents 30 Creation of SignBright 31 Word-Learning Strategies Useful for Deaf Children 33 Variables Influencing Achievement 41 Current Instructional Tools for Children 43 CHAPTER 3 50 Methodology 50 Participants 50 Measures 51
The Economics and Sociology of Taxation

As the title of the chapter indicates, I have set myself two goals. First, I want to explain the general economic effect of taxation. This part of the chapter represents a praxeological analysis of taxation and as such should not be expected to go much beyond what has already been said by other economists.
Angiotensin II Induced Hypertension, Renal Damage, and Immune Cell Infiltration in the Dahl Salt Sensitive Rat

In recent years, there has been a reenergized interest in the role of immune cells in the pathogenesis of hypertension (HTN). We recently reported that Dahl salt sensitive (SS) rats lacking the Rag...
Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria in the Zero Valent Iron Permeable Reactive Barrier at Fry Canyon, Utah

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a study in which a zero valent iron (ZVI) permeable reactive barrier (PRB) was installed in a shallow, colluvial aquifer contaminated with uranium in Fry Canyon, Utah, in September 1997. Aerobic and anaerobic iron corrosion reactions in the ZVI PRB have created a highly reducing, oxygen-depleted, and hydrogen gas-enriched geochemical environment in the PRB that is favorable for sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). Stable sulfur isotope, microbiologic, and geochemical evidence indicates that SRB are active in the ZVI PRB. The stable sulfur isotope and SO42– data from wells in the ZVI PRB and a downgradient well show that sulfur is removed by DSR through a Rayliegh-type distillation process. The enrichment factor computed from the Rayleigh plot is close to the values measured in other field investigations of DSR in groundwater systems. The thermodynamic speciation calculations and stable sulfur isotope data indicate that sulfide precipitation is the only sink for sulfur in the PRB. The distribution of SO42- concentrations indicates that most of the sulfide precipitation is occurring in the first 0.15 m of the PRB.
A method for detecting protein expression in single cells using the C1™ Single-Cell Auto Prep System (TECH2P.874)

Recent improvements in microfluidics and biochemistry have enabled single-cell molecular analysis, providing new insight into the heterogeneity of cell populations. The C1 Single-Cell Auto Prep System is an automated platform that streamlines the isolation and processing of 96 individual, live cells for RNA and DNA analysis. Single-cell protein profiling is a direct complement to genomic analysis as it provides additional insights into key molecular mechanisms and system biology. To enable this, we adapted a highly multiplexed protein detection system (Proseek Multiplex Oncology, Olink Bioscience) for use on the C1 System. We analyzed 192 individual cells from two human promyelocytic leukemia cell lines (HL60 and K562) and compared these result against 16 FACS-sorted cells in tube format. These results indicated that four key proteins (i.e. CASP3, CSTB, CD69 and MPO) are differentially expressed between the two cell lines and vary from cell-to-cell. For example, the human protein MPO, produced by neutrophils for their microbicidal activity, was differentially expression between individual HL60 and K562 cells, suggesting varying levels of neutrophil activation within the cell populations. This work demonstrates highly-multiplexed protein detection at the single-cell level and shows promise to have sufficient sensitivity, reproducibility and scale to effectively interrogate a statistically significant numbers of individual cells.
Electrocardiographic changes during surface-induced deep hypothermia. The influence of ether, halothane, carbon dioxide, and perfusion rewarming.

Abstract The influence of halothane, ether, carbon dioxide, and perfusion rewarming on the electrocardiogram was studied in 37 dogs subjected to surface-induced deep hypothermia. Significant anesthetic-related differences in P-R, QRS, Q-T, and R-R intervals during cooling were not apparent; however, reduced arterial pressure, ventricular fibrillation, and a greater tendency for bradycardia requiring supportive measures were noted at low temperatures with halothane anesthesia. The use of 95% O 2 /5% CO 2 significantly reduced the QTc at low temperatures. Other phenomena, including the occurrence and significance of J waves, are discussed. The relationship of the electrocardiogram to clinical and pathological results was evaluated and indicates that (1) properly managed resuscitation (manual massage and defibrillation) is not a serious hazard, (2) ether in 100% oxygen is the agent of choice for surface-induced deep hypothermia with prolonged circulatory arrest, and (3) halothane may be used in a procedure combining surface cooling and perfusion rewarming if given in a mixture of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Decremental conduction in the posterior and anterior AV nodal inputs.

The role for fiber orientation as a determinant of conduction and block in the posterior (slow pathway, SP) and anterior (fast pathway, FP) AV nodal inputs was examined using multiple extracellular bipolar and intracellular microelectrode recordings in the superfused canine AV junction (N = 14). Results: In both inputs, antegrade longitudinal conduction velocity decremented in association with decreased action potential amplitude and dV/dt max. A similar decrement was also present in the SP transverse to fiber orientation. SP conduction block occurred preferentially near its insertion into the compact AV node with very slow conduction (0.05 ± 0.01 M/sec) preceding conduction block. Distal antegrade FP conduction block occurred before conduction block occurred at more proximal FP sites. Conduction in the distal FP was maintained at a higher velocity (0.11 ± 0.01 M/sec, p < 0.05 vs. SP) before 2:1 conduction block was observed. Conduction velocity, action potential amplitude, and dV/dt max were not different at any SP or FP site for paired activation transverse and longitudinal to fiber orientation. Conclusions: The data do not demonstrate a role for fiber orientation determining decremental conduction and block in transitional cell AV nodal inputs. Decremental conduction in both the SP and FP inputs is consistent with a proximal-to-distal gradient in resting membrane potential, action potential amplitude, dV/dt max, and intracellular excitability in transitional cells during antegrade activation.
Evaluation of Hydrolytic Products of 17-Ketosteroids by Means of Gas-Liquid Chromatography

In the course of evaluating urinary 17-ketosteroid (17-KS) gas-liquid chromatographic patterns, a number of peaks with retention times shorter than that of 17-KS were constantly observed. This background material was found to be degradation products of 17-KS produced by HCI hydrolysis. A study with pure 17-KS as a mixture and as individual steroids was used to identify the steroids responsible for most of the 9 compounds with retention times less than etiocholanolone. Hydrolysis in ethyl acetate containing perchloric acid produced smaller amounts of degradation products than HCI-hydrolysis. Enzymatic hydrolysis appears to be the most acceptable system for preparation of the extracts from urine for this system of assay.
Association of the EGFR intron 1 CA repeat length with lung cancer risk

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in the development and progression of lung cancer. A previous report noted that an increased number of polymorphic CA repeats in the first intron of the EGFR gene results in decreased transcriptional activity. To estimate the association of the length of polymorphic CA repeats in intron 1 of the EGFR gene with lung cancer, a case-control study of 176 lung cancer patients and 161 controls was conducted in Caucasians. This case-control study is based on two existing prospective cohorts: the Early Detection Research Network (EDRN) and the Lung Cancer Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) at the University of Pittsburgh. The frequencies of the SL (one allele>16 repeats), and SS (both allele ≤16 repeats) genotypes were statistically higher among the cases than in the controls (OR: 1.94 and 3.04, 95% CI: 1.16–3.23 and 1.53–6.04, P-value: 0.01 and 0.001, respectively). When the length of EGFR-CA repeat was analyzed by the sum of the number of repeats in two alleles, the frequency of the shorter repeats (sum ≤36) was 79.6% versus 63.4%, respectively, and the frequency of the longer repeats (sum >36) was 20.5% versus 36.7%, for lung cancer cases versus controls. The lower sum of EGFR-CA repeats associated with the risk of lung cancer; the estimated odds ratio was 2.25 with 95% confidence interval: 1.38–3.66 (P = 0.001). Associations involving EGFR-CA repeat genotype and EGFR-CA repeat sum remained significant when adjusted for age, gender, and tobacco exposure. Our study, which is preliminary, demonstrates for the first time that shorter EGFR-CA repeats associate with lung cancer risk. The number of EGFR-CA repeats identifies a possible susceptible population to lung cancer. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Cost analysis of 4x and 6x 9-in. reticles for future lithography

Standardizing on reticle size is critical for semiconductor tool manufacturers and the semiconductor industry as a whole. The advantages of large reticles are well known: larger die and increased throughput. Although predictions of extremely large die have not yet been realized, the throughput implications remain valid. As large reticles have the potential to increase throughput, some proponents view them as potential cost savers. This work examines the implications of migrating from today's standard 6-inch reticles to 9-inch reticles. It explores the factors that drive reticle cost, and describes why larger reticles should cost more. The paper also describes the cost benefit of implementing larger masks. Comparing the expected cost of building the reticle to the potential cost savings of using the reticle in production provides significant insight into the problem of selecting the optimal reticle size. Finally, the paper presents an analysis of the impact of 6X reduction systems on the selection of reticle size.
A Microscopic, Continous, Optical Monitor for Interstitial Electrolytes and Glucose

Ions, such as hydrogen (pH), sodium, or potassium, as well as metabolites, such as glucose or lactate, diffuse easily between blood in the capillaries and the interstitial fluid (ISF) residing between cells, and tissues. This work represents a synthesis of several unique concepts to achieve accurate, continuous, in vivo monitoring of critical ions and glucose in the ISF under the human skin. Ionic levels are monitored using optode technology that translates the respective concentrations into variable colors of ionophore/dye/polymeric liquid membranes. Glucose is monitored indirectly, by coupling through immobilized glucose oxidase with pH, that is then detected using a similar color scheme. The monitor consists of a tiny plastic bar ("sliver sensor"), 100-300 microns wide and 1-15 mm long, placed just under the skin, with optical spots or stripes for each analyte as well as blanks for calibration. The colors are read and translated into concentration values by a watchlike device placed above the skin. Direct optical coupling between the in vivo sensing bar and the ex vivo detector device requires negligible power, and eliminates the need for wires or optical fibers crossing the skin. The microminiature sliver penetrates the skin easily and painlessly, so that the user could insert it him- or herself. No risk of track infection exists. We are reporting here on the first successful in vitro tests of this approach.
Absence of sensitivity to initial conditions in quantum dynamics

A canonical generalization of the notion of sensitivity to initial conditions is developed for quantum dynamics and used to define the spectrum of characteristic exponents for quantum systems. It is then shown, under very general conditions, that there exists no positive characteristic exponent nor any sensitivity to initial conditions, however weak, in quantum dynamics. This result implies the nonexistence of chaos is quantum mechanics.
Fischer-Tropsch synthesis over freshly reduced iron-ruthenium alloys

Abstract Surface analysis of unsupported FeRu alloys was accomplished using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) after the catalysts were reduced in flowing H2 at 673 K for 4 h in a pretreatment chamber and introduced directly into the UHV instrument without exposure to the air. XPS lines show Fe and Ru to be metallic after reduction. Quantitative analysis of the first several layers using XPS shows enrichment of the surface region in Fe as expected. Analysis of the secondary ion emission as a function of composition shows a marked decrease in the Ru+ emission from 97Ru3Fe compared to the pure Ru catalyst, suggesting alteration of the electronic properties of the surface upon addition of a small amount of Fe. Semiquantitative analysis of the uppermost layer using SIMS suggests greater Fe enrichment in the first layer than the average enrichment calculated from XPS for the first several layers. The initial activity and selectivity of the catalysts for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis were measured at 1 atm and 573 K in 3.3H2 + CO at conversions below 3%. Selectivity to methane decreases through a minimum with increasing Fe content in the first layer. High propylene and ethylene yields were found for the alloy catalysts. A marked increase in the selectivity of the catalysts to propylene and, particularly, ethylene for 3Fe97Ru compared to pure Ru correlates with the sharp changes in SIMS yields.
Flow cytometric analysis of germ tube formation in Candida albicans

The transition from the blastospore to the hyphal phase in Candida albicans is an important step in the pathogenesis of candidiasis. We present the application of flow cytometry (FCM) to the analysis of germ tube (GT) formation in large numbers of yeast cells. FCM parameters of 90° vs. forward angle light scatter, GT-specific fibrinogen (Fbn) binding fluorescence, and relative DNA content were used to provide a means of monitoring GT formation over time. FCM measurements of 90° vs. forward angle light scatter distinguished blastospores from GTs, whereas detection of Fbn binding to GTs by indirect immunofluorescence was used to quantitate GT formation. Under conditions favoring germination, a five-fold average increase in Fbn binding was observed over a 120 min period in clinical and type culture strains of C. albicans, but not in a GT-deficient mutant of C. albicans. Cell sorting was used to confirm that Fbn binding correlated with percent GT formation and increased GT length. DNA analysis by FCM showed i...
Ineffective participation: reactions to absentee and incompetent nurse leadership in an intensive care unit

Aim The aim of the present study was to analyse reactions to ineffective leader participation in an intensive care unit (ICU). Background Critical examination of leadership failures helps identify nurse manager behaviours to avoid. Method An online survey collected data from 51 interacting healthcare providers who work in an intensive care unit. Results Participants reported dissatisfaction with nurse leaders who were perceived as absent or ill prepared. Participants categorized intensive care unit productivity and morale as moderate to low. Multiple regression suggested the best predictor of perceived unit productivity was supervisor communication; the best predictor of employee morale was perceived leader mentoring. Conclusions Intensive care unit nurses reported wanting active participation from their leaders and expressed dissatisfaction when supervisors were perceived as absent or incompetent. Ineffective leader participation significantly correlated with lower employee perceptions of productivity and morale. Implications for nursing management Senior managers should recruit and develop supervisors with effective participation skills. Organizations primarily concerned about productivity should focus on developing the communication skills of nurse leaders. Units mainly concerned with employee morale should emphasize mentorship and role modelling. Formal assessment of nurse leaders by all intensive care unit team members should also be used to proactively identify opportunities for improvement.
Natural and artificial rephasing of a tidal rhythm

1. Populations of the sand-beach isopod,Excirolana chiltoni, show rhythmic swimming activity, under non-tidal conditions in the laboratory. The underlying period of this rhythm approximates the double-tidal interval of 24.8 hours rather than the tidal interval of 12.4 hours. 2. Three patterns in swimming activity were observed: 1) diurnal activity, in which one peak of activity was observed each day; 2) semidiurnal equal activity, in which two peaks of equally intense activity were observed, and; 3) semidiurnal unequal activity in which a high level activity peak alternating with a low level activity peak was observed. The ability to perform each of these patterns resides in single individuals. 3. The pattern of activity which was observed in any particular experiment reflected the wave form of the tide on the day preceding confinement of the population in the laboratory (Figs. 1 and 2). 4. The application of turbulence cycles, in the laboratory, which simulate wave action on the beach can phase shift the ongoing rhythm of a population and can initiate rhythmic activity in previously arhythmic populations. One stimulus application per day initiates diurnal activity while two stimuli evoke semidiurnal activity. The effect of turbulent stimuli persists for several days after cessation of treatment indicating a long lasting conditioning effect of these stimuli on the pattern of endogenous activity (Figs. 6–10).
Relaxation and frequency shifts induced by quasiparticles in superconducting qubits

As low-loss nonlinear elements, Josephson junctions are the building blocks of superconducting qubits. The interaction of the qubit degree of freedom with the quasiparticles tunneling through the junction represents an intrinsic relaxation mechanism. We develop a general theory for the qubit decay rate induced by quasiparticles, and we study its dependence on the magnetic flux used to tune the qubit properties in devices such as the phase and flux qubits, the split transmon, and the fluxonium. Our estimates for the decay rate apply to both thermal equilibrium and nonequilibrium quasiparticles. We propose measuring the rate in a split transmon to obtain information on the possible nonequilibrium quasiparticle distribution. We also derive expressions for the shift in qubit frequency in the presence of quasiparticles.
New Form of Strip Approximation

A detailed set of "bootstrap" equations is formulated for zero-spin "external" particles based on a combination of the $\frac{N}{D}$ method with the superposition of top-ranking Regge poles in all three reactions of a four-line connected part. The contribution from each pole arises from a distinct strip in the Mandelstam representation so that double counting is avoided. Only real values of $l$ with $ll~1$ need be considered in the bootstrap calculation. The amplitude emerging from our $\frac{N}{D}$ equations is meromorphic in the right-half $l$ plane, and the Regge poles approach high-energy limits that are dynamically determined and which in some cases may lie to the right of $l=0$. The reduced residues vanish in the high-energy limit.
A microcomputer-based laboratory for psychopathology research in rural settings

An Apple-based computer system for research use in rural mental health settings is described. Hardware and software modifications are detailed. Techniques to aid in the acceptance of psychopathology research programs in these rural settings are discussed.
Treatment of hypertension with antihypertensive diuretic drugs.

Abstract The (1) mercurial diuretics, (2) benzothiadiazine and phthalimidine diuretics, (3) carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, (4) aldosterone antagonists, and (5) unsaturated ketone derivatives of the aryloxyacetic (phenoxyacetic) acid diuretics are the diuretic drugs which have been used in the treatment of hypertension. The physiologic mechanisms involved in sodium chloride transport, sodium-for-hydrogen exchange, sodium-for-potassium exchange, and water reabsorption by the kidney have been described and related to the action of the antihypertensive diuretic drugs. The two groups of drugs which are employed frequently at present are the benzothiadiazine and phthalimidine diuretics and the aldosterone antagonists. Of these groups, it appears that the aldosterone antagonists (spironolactone), which have few side effects and significant antihypertensive activity have, therefore, some advantages over the benzothiadiazine and phthalimidine diuretics in the treatment of hypertension.
Market choice, entry regulation, and joint production: Market access and market service in motor carrier markets

In this paper I develop and estimate a model explaining firm decisions to serve markets. Firms choose to serve multiple markets within a set of markets, but serve only one set of markets at a time. Entry regulation restricts access to markets and may result in firms not serving particular markets or sets of markets. The empirical analysis suggests that Interstate Commerce Commission entry regulation, despite partial deregulation in 1980, continues to affect firm decisions to serve markets and that the effects vary across markets and may cause a firm to serve an entirely different set of markets.
Effects of Solvent on the Structure of the Alzheimer Amyloid-β(25–35) Peptide

The free energy landscape for folding of the Alzheimer's amyloid-beta(25-35) peptide is explored using replica exchange molecular dynamics in both pure water and in HFIP/water cosolvent. This amphiphilic peptide is a natural by-product of the Alzheimer's amyloid-beta(1-40) peptide and retains the toxicity of its full-length counterpart as well as the ability to aggregate into beta-sheet-rich fibrils. Our simulations reveal that the peptide preferentially populates a helical structure in apolar organic solvent, while in pure water, the peptide adopts collapsed coil conformations and to a lesser extent beta-hairpin conformations. The beta-hairpin is characterized by a type II' beta-turn involving residues G29 and A30 and two short beta-strands involving residues N27, K28, I31, and I32. The hairpin is stabilized by backbone hydrogen-bonding interactions between residues K28 and I31; S26 and G33; and by side-chain-to-side-chain interactions between N27 and I32. Implications regarding the mechanism of aggregation of this peptide into fibrils and the role of the environment in modulating secondary structure are discussed.
Facilitation Drives Mortality Patterns Along Succession Gradients of Aspen-conifer Forests

While it is well established that facilitation and competition are important structuring forces in plant communities, a clear understanding of the interactions between them and how they change through the life stages of plants and affect long-term plant community development is lacking. We have observed that conifer seedlings are rarely found growing in meadows but readily establish under adjacent aspen stands, particularly at the base of aspen trees, creating the potential for antagonistic interactions in later life stages. To examine these relationships and their potential consequences on forest community development, we characterized patterns of establishment, regeneration, and overstory mortality of aspen (Populus tremuloides) and subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa) along a stand composition gradient (aspen dominant → mixed → conifer dominant) that develops in seral aspen forests. We found strong stand effects on the establishment of both aspen and subalpine fir regeneration. Aspen regenerated into meadows from the forest boundary, reached peak densities underneath aspen stands, and decreased significantly in mixed and conifer dominated stands. In contrast, subalpine fir seedlings failed to regenerate in meadows, but established readily underneath aspen, mixed and conifer stands. Within stands, establishing subalpine fir seedlings were strongly aggregated around mature aspen trees, which increased the proximity of the two species 2–10 fold depending on subalpine fir age class and stand type. Both stand type and increased proximity of overstory aspen and fir trees drove mortality patterns of the two species in opposite directions. Overstory aspen mortality increased sharply along the stand composition gradient: aspen (7%), mixed (17%), conifer (49%), while subalpine fir wasn't significantly influenced by stand type. Proximity of overstory aspen and subalpine fir, was associated with increased (2×) aspen mortality under all stand conditions but increased subalpine fir survival resulting in high aspen:fir mortality ratios that likely accelerate successional shifts toward conifer dominance. Our data suggest that environmental conditions that promote facilitator mortality may compromise the ability of facilitation-dependent forests to regenerate following disturbance. Maintenance of natural disturbance regimes appears to be critical in striking an ecological balance between facilitation and competition that promotes sustainability in succession-driven plant communities.
The Effects-Reasoning Matrix: A Tool for Broadening Ethics Sensitivity

An ethical effects-reasoning matrix (ERM) is proposed as a device to broaden ethics sensitivity by encouraging students to examine ethical decisions from various perspectives. The framework is designed to help students appreciate the wide range of ethical approaches that may be expected from multiple stakeholders in any business decisions.
High-energy neutrinos from powerful radio galaxies

In order to explore mechanisms for the production of radio lobes from radio galaxies, observational tests involving neutrinos at E equal to or greater than 4 TeV are proposed. Among the mechanisms that have been suggested are: an explosive burst of energy that has been stored in or near the galactic nucleus; diffusive escape of particles from the vicinity of the galactic nucleus into plasmons; a beam from the galactic core that interacts with the circumgalactic medium; and black holes or spinars ejected from the galactic nucleus by a gravitational slingshot mechanism. As an example, neutrino fluxes from Cen A are estimated. The annual neutrino event rate at energies above 4 TeV is about 100-1000 for a DUMAND-type detector if relativistic particles are temporarily stored near the galactic nucleus, and if these have a differential energy spectrum with exponent -2.0. With a similar exponent, but allowing free escape from the galaxy, the fluxes are about 10 times lower.
Fracture risk in very young women using combined oral contraceptives.

Abstract Background Little is known on fracture risk in young women using oral contraceptives. Study Design Case-control study (64,548 cases, 193,641 controls). Results Overall, no major association with risk of fracture was present. Only in a few age groups a limited increase (OR 1.1–1.5) was seen in those using low average doses (less than one tablet per day — i.e., intermittent use). Neither 20 nor ≥30 mcg per day of ethinylestradiol was associated with risk of fractures, while changing from 20 to ≥30 mcg per day or vice versa was associated with a limited increase in fracture risk (OR 1.1-1.4) in some age groups. Conclusions In general, use of oral contraceptives in young women did not seem to be associated with an increased risk of fractures. The isolated increase seen in some strata with low average doses may be linked to factors associated with discontinuation of oral contraceptives rather than pharmacological effects.
Dexamethasone and stress upregulate Kv1.5 K+ channel gene expression in rat ventricular myocytes

Hormones may produce long-term effects on excitability by regulating K+ channel gene expression. Previous studies demonstrated that administration of dexamethasone, a glucocorticoid receptor agonist, to adrenalectomized rats, rapidly induces Kv1.5 K+ channel expression in the ventricle of the hear. Here, RNase protection assays and Northern blots are used to examine the cell type specificity of dexamethasone action and to test whether Kv1.5 gene expression can be regulated by a physiological stimulus. We show that Kv1.5 mRNA expression in the central nervous system is highest in the hypothalamus. However, dexamethasone treatment of adrenalectomized rats fails to affect Kv1.5 mRNA levels in hypothalamus or lung. In contrast, dramatic upregulation of Kv1.5 mRNA is seen in skeletal muscle and pituitary. Increased Kv1.5 message also found in isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes following in vivo treatment with dexamethasone. Finally, it is shown that cold stress of intact rats significantly increases cardiac Kv1.5 mRNA expression. We conclude that dexamethasone induction of Kv1.5 gene is tissue-specific. Furthermore, our results suggest that stress may act via glucocorticoids to increase Kv1.5 gene expression in ventricular cardiomyocytes. Hence, K+ channel gene expression can be influenced by physiological and pharmacological stimuli.
Amphotericin B and 5-Fluorocytosine: In Vitro Effects on Lymphocyte Function

The effects of amphotericin B, 5-fluorocytosine, and the combination of both drugs on lymphocyte function in vitro were investigated. Amphotericin B, alone or in combination with 5-fluorocytosine, significantly suppressed both spontaneous lymphocyte transformation and the response of lymphocytes to stimulation with streptokinase-streptodornase. 5-Fluorocytosine had no effect on spontaneous or antigen-induced transformation. Lymphocyte responses to the mitogens phytohemagglutinin and concanavalin A were not changed by exposure to amphotericin B, 5-fluorocytosine, or the combination of both drugs. T-lymphocyte receptors for sheep erythrocytes and B-lymphocyte surface immunoglobulin and receptors for complement were not changed by treatment with amphotericin B or 5-fluorocytosine.
AN EMPIRICAL EVALUATION OF REPETITIVE UNDERSAMPLING TECHNIQUES

Class imbalance is a fundamental problem in data mining and knowledge discovery which is encountered in a wide array of application domains. Random undersampling has been widely used to alleviate the harmful effects of imbalance, however, this technique often leads to a substantial amount of information loss. Repetitive undersampling techniques, which generate an ensemble of models, each trained on a different, undersampled subset of the training data, have been proposed to allieviate this difficulty. This work reviews three repetitive undersampling methods currently used to handle imbalance and presents a detailed and comprehensive empirical study using four different learners, four performance metrics and 15 datasets from various application domains. To our knowledge, this work is the most thorough study of repetitive undersampling techniques.
Neuropathic osteoarthropathy in the diabetic foot.

Abstract Objective: To discuss a case involving a 55-year-old diabetic woman with neuropathic osteoarthropathy initiated by a fall. Clinical Features: The patient fell into a hole, injuring her left foot. Because of the anesthesia associated with her diabetic peripheral neuropathy, she did not notice the ensuing plantar puncture wound. The patient assumed that her swelling was a result of a sprain. Mild dislocation and osseous fragmentation was noted within the midfoot on radiographs. The neuropathic osteoarthropathy progressed until the patient was later casted. Plain films taken at the time of cast removal demonstrated resorption and consolidation of fragmentation, but the dislocation was unaltered. Intervention and Outcome: The patient was scheduled for surgery and wound debridement. However, before surgery, complications of a burn sustained on the contralateral foot required fifth ray amputation. Surgery of the left foot has been postponed until adequate postsurgical healing has occurred at the right foot amputation site. Conclusion: This article provides tools for the timely diagnosis and treatment of neuropathic osteoarthropathy. An increased understanding of this entity will help lead to a reduction in the incidence of delayed treatment resulting from misdiagnosis. (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2002;25:416-22)
Comparison of reinstatement of ethanol- and sucrose-seeking by conditioned stimuli and priming injections of allopregnanolone after extinction in rats

Understanding the mechanism of relapse provoked by conditioned and unconditioned stimuli is critical to improving treatments for alcoholism. This study compared the reinstatement of alcohol- or sucrose-seeking by conditioned stimuli and priming injections of the neuroactive steroid, allopregnanolone (ALLO). Rats were trained to lever-press for 0.1 ml of 10% ethanol or 5% sucrose solutions. Responding was then extinguished, and subjects were tested for reinstatement of lever-press responding. The effects of priming injections of 0, 1.0, 3.0 and 7.5 mg/kg ALLO were determined in subjects trained to self-administer ethanol, and the response-reinstating effects of priming injections of 3.0 mg/kg ALLO were compared with those of conditioned cue presentation in subjects trained to self-administer either ethanol or sucrose. Priming injections of ALLO dose-dependently reinstated previously extinguished responding for ethanol, as shown by increased responding on the active (ethanol) lever. Contingent presentation of cues previously associated with the reinforcer increased the number of active lever-presses for both ethanol- and sucrose- trained subjects. In contrast, pretreatment with 3.0 mg/kg ALLO increased the number of active lever-presses for subjects that were trained to self-administer ethanol, but not sucrose. ALLO promotes responding for ethanol, but not sucrose, following a period of abstinence, suggesting that GABAA receptor modulation may contribute to processes involved in reinstatement of ethanol-seeking behavior. In contrast, conditioned stimuli reinstate previously extinguished ethanol- and sucrose-seeking behavior, indicating that the mechanisms that subserve cue-induced reinstatement do not depend upon the nature of the positive reinforcer.
A proposed methodology for measuring incremental environmental benefits from using constructed wetlands to control agricultural non-point-source pollution

A binary response estimation procedure using contingent valuation data is proposed for estimating the incremental environmental benefits associated with the use of constructed wetlands to control agricultural waste-water runoff. The model uses two binary responses per individual while circumventing the non-independence problems associated with follow-up valuation questions. Case study results suggest that the methodology provides a potentially effective means for measuring the non-market benefits of constructed wetlands in addition to water-quality maintenance.1998 Academic Press
Enhancement of SMN2 exon 7 inclusion by antisense oligonucleotides targeting the exon

Several strategies have been pursued to increase the extent of exon 7 inclusion during splicing of SMN2 (survival of motor neuron 2) transcripts, for eventual therapeutic use in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic neuromuscular disease. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that target an exon or its flanking splice sites usually promote exon skipping. Here we systematically tested a large number of ASOs with a 2′-O-methoxy-ethyl ribose (MOE) backbone that hybridize to different positions of SMN2 exon 7, and identified several that promote greater exon inclusion, others that promote exon skipping, and still others with complex effects on the accumulation of the two alternatively spliced products. This approach provides positional information about presumptive exonic elements or secondary structures with positive or negative effects on exon inclusion. The ASOs are effective not only in cell-free splicing assays, but also when transfected into cultured cells, where they affect splicing of endogenous SMN transcripts. The ASOs that promote exon 7 inclusion increase full-length SMN protein levels, demonstrating that they do not interfere with mRNA export or translation, despite hybridizing to an exon. Some of the ASOs we identified are sufficiently active to proceed with experiments in SMA mouse models.
Deceptive Detection Methods for Effective Security with Inadequate Budgets: The Testing Power Index

Detection of contraband depends on countermeasures, some of which involve examining cargo containers and/or their associated documents. Document screening is the least expensive, physical methods, such as gamma ray detection are more expensive, and definitive manual unpacking is most expensive. We cannot apply the full array of methods to all incoming cargoes, for budgetary reasons. We study the problem using principles of game theory, and find that best detection rates are achieved when the available budget is allocated between screening and definitive unpacking using a mixture of strategies that maximize detection rate and, further, serve to deceive opponents as to the specific tests to which contraband will be subjected. This yields increases of as much as 100% in detection, with essentially no increase in inspection cost.
Probing for relevance: What metacognition tells us about the power of consciousness

Metacognitive attitudes can affect behavior but do they do so, as Koriat claims, because they enhance voluntary control? This Commentary makes a case for saying that metacognitive consciousness may enhance not control but subjective predictability and may be best studied by examining not just healthy, well-integrated cognizers, but victims of multilevel mental disorders.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of a Polyalanine Octapeptide under Ewald Boundary Conditions: Influence of Artificial Periodicity on Peptide Conformation

Ewald and related mesh methods are nowadays routinely used in explicit-solvent simulations of solvated biomolecules, although they impose an artificial periodicity in systems which are inherently n...
Photoacoustic measurement of the Grüneisen parameter of tissue

The Gruneisen parameter, a constitutive parameter in photoacoustics, is usually measured from isobaric thermal expansion, which may not be valid for a biological medium due to its heterogeneity. Here, we directly measured the Gruneisen parameter by applying photoacoustic spectroscopy. Laser pulses at wavelengths between 460 and 1800 nm were delivered to tissue samples, and photoacoustic signals were detected by flat water-immersion ultrasonic transducers. Least-squares fitting photoacoustic spectra to molar optical absorption spectra showed that the Gruneisen parameter was 0.81±0.05 (mean±SD) for porcine subcutaneous fat tissue and 0.69±0.02 for porcine lipid at room temperature (22°C). The Gruneisen parameter of a red blood cell suspension was linearly related to hemoglobin concentration, and the parameter of bovine serum was 9% greater than that of water at room temperature.
Strategic Foreclosure as an Indicator of Eroding Institutional Structures

Many houses purchased just before the housing bubble burst have a market value lower than the amount of the mortgages on them; they are said to be underwater. Among homeowners in such a position, a number have adequate financial wherewithal to make the payments but choose to voluntarily default on the loan. Evidence suggests that a growing number of homeowners are taking this course, known as strategic, or voluntary, foreclosures. Once a stigma, voluntary foreclosure seems to be gaining in social acceptability. The phenomenon appears to be reflective of the broad trend that Max Weber termed the increasing rationalization of society.
Comparison of simulated and experimental fundamental ICP parameters

Abstract False-color spatial maps of experimentally determined and simulated values of electron number density ( n e ), electron temperature ( T e ) and heavy-particle temperature ( T g ) for an argon inductively coupled plasma (ICP) in the plasma decay region (tail flame) are compared in detail. Experimental and theoretical values are in general very consistent; the difference between experiment and computation is approximately 10% for n e and T e and 20% for T g in the plasma region examined. The errors in n e and T e are larger at the edge of the plasma, most likely because air entrainment becomes significant. This comparison provides a link between measurements and the current mathematical model and serves to partially validate both methods. Sources of error in both experiment and theory are considered and discussed.