cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity of Signal Transduction by Na/K-ATPase α Isoforms: Role of α3 Na/K-ATPase

Na/K-ATPase is an ion transporting pump. The a1 subunit of Na/K-ATPase also forms a receptor complex by direct interaction with Src. Na/K-ATPase ligands like ouabain modulate this interaction and t...
The Effect of Glucose Levels Prior to Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation on Post-Transplant Complications and Health Resource Utilization

Background: Abnormal blood glucose (BG) levels during hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) are associated with increased infections, delayed engraftment, and prolonged hospitalization, though little is known about these associations. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated mean BG levels in the week prior to HCT and subsequent outcomes for 852 HCTs at our hospital from 1/2009 - 12/2013 pertaining to 745 patients. Outcomes included infections (pneumonia, C. difficile, positive cultures, administration of antimicrobials, or neutropenic fever), time-to-engraftment (TTE), and quality indicators (30- and 90-day readmission rates [RR] and median length-of-stay [LOS]). Results: 404 patients met the criteria for involvement in this study. The population was 55% male and was racially and ethnically mixed (White 38%, African American 23%, Hispanic 6%, Asian 7%, Other 21%). Mean age was 57+14 years. Significantly more patients in Group 2 were diagnosed with pneumonia (19%) compared with the Group 1 (7%) and Group 3 (10%) [p=.0054]. Patients in Group 2 also had significantly longer median LOS: Group 1-23 days, Group 2-26 days, Group 3-22 days [p = .0157]. No significant differences were noted in terms of the other infectious complications or in time-to-engraftment or readmissions. Conclusion: Pre-HCT BG trends may be a prognostic biomarker for adverse outcomes, and thus can help improve quality of care for HCT patients.
Cerebral Angiography in Moyamoya Syndrome Secondary to Vasculopathy in Down Syndrome.

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is an idiopathic intracranial vasculopathy characterized by progressive bilateral stenosis or occlusion of the terminal internal carotid arteries (ICA) and their main branches with compensatory collateral angiogenesis. It is more prevalent among Asian populations and has a typical angiographic appearance. A similar angiographic pattern is associated with vasculopathy due to several medical conditions including Down syndrome and is termed Moyamoya syndrome (MMS). We present neuroimages for a case of an early stage of MMS secondary to vasculopathy in Down syndrome in a young woman who presented with ischemic stroke.
Specific heat at constant pressure from first principles: contributions from fully anharmonic vibrations

Specific heat at constant pressure (Cp) for diamond Si and wurtzite GaN is calculated using a novel, first principles method based on density functional theory. This method, termed the Beyond Quasi-Harmonic method, completely takes into account all anharmonic vibrations–both from changes in volume and phonon interactions. Our calculated values for Si show excellent agreement with the generally accepted experimental values. For GaN, however, there is a large discrepancy between two sets of experiments. From an analysis of the available literature, and our own data we develop a set of recommended values.
Discovering new targeted therapies for BRAF mutant-like colorectal cancers.

3623 Background: Approximately 10% of colorectal cancers (CRCs) harbor a BRAF mutation (BRAFm). Patients with BRAFm tumors have poor prognosis and are a therapeutic challenge. A BRAFm gene expressi...
Organ specificity dictates tumor immune infiltration and composition in metastatic breast cancer; lessons from a rapid autopsy tissue collection study.

1032Background: Immune composition in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of patient tumors has proven to play a central role in the propensity of tumors to metastasize and respond to therapy. Evidenc...
Mixing commonly used crystalloid solutions with red blood cells in five common additives does not negatively impact hemolysis, aggregometry, or deformability.

Background Literature is beginning to challenge the belief that it is unsafe to coinfuse red blood cells (RBCs) with solutions other than isotonic saline. We recently showed that additive-free RBCs tolerated coincubation with Plasma-Lyte or catecholamines dissolved in normal saline (NS), though 5% dextrose in water (D5W) promoted hemolysis. Herein, we evaluate the effect of coincubating crystalloids on additive-preserved RBC hemolysis, aggregation, and membrane deformability. Study design and methods RBCs were coincubated 5 minutes with plasma, NS, Plasma-Lyte, lactated Ringer's (LR) or D5W (1 mL PRBC +131.3 μL solution). Samples were then assessed for hemolysis (free hemoglobin), aggregation (critical shear stress [mPa]), and membrane deformability (elongation index [EI]). Significance (P ≤ .05) by t test or ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey-Kramer test. Results Additive-prepared RBCs coincubated with crystalloid instead of plasma demonstrated: (a) no increase in hemolysis as indicated by plasma free hemoglobin levels that is likely to be clinically relevant; (b) no increase, but in some cases a decrease, in aggregation as indicated by critical shear stress; and (c) in some combinations, a deterioration in deformability. When present, the deformability decrease was likely clinically insignificant in degree, and always returned to normal when the crystalloid was subsequently diluted out with plasma. Conclusion Our data suggest that additive-prepared RBCs coincubated for 5 minutes with any of four common crystalloids demonstrate no clinically relevant increased lysis, increased aggregation, or decreased deformability.
RACE: Reconfigurable and Adaptive Computing Environment

The Reconfigurable Adaptive Computing Environment (RACE) is a complete environment for reconfigurable computing. The RACE system provides the ability for run-time reconfiguration as well as multiple, simultaneous applications. A hardware library is the key part of the computing environment, allowing for the quick simulation of applications and hardware-software co-execution. Time-consuming functions can be specified in VHDL and added to the hardware library, which are then linked into a user's C program for hardware execution of the functions. The RACE hardware consists of a DMA interface and five Xilinx XC4013 FPGAs, providing approximately 52,000 gates of logic.
Network Improvement for Equilibrium Routing

In routing games, agents pick routes through a network to minimize their own delay. A primary concern for the network designer in routing games is the average agent delay at equilibrium. A number of methods to control this average delay have received substantial attention, including network tolls, Stackelberg routing, and edge removal.
Anion Exchangers in Flux: Functional Differences between Human and Mouse SLC26A6 Polypeptides

The SLC26 anion transporter polypeptides exhibit considerably greater sequence diversity among near-species orthologues than is found among the SLC4 bicarbonate transporters, and among SLC26 transporters is most marked among SLC26A6 orthologues. This observation prompted systematic functional comparison in Xenopus oocytes of mouse Slc26a6 with several human SLC26A6 polypeptide variants. Mouse and human polypeptides exhibited similar rates of bidirectional [14C]oxalate flux, Cl-/HCO3- exchange, and Cl-/OH- exchange, and similar cAMP-stimulation and enhancement of that stimulation by wild-type but not delta F508 CFTR. However, high rates of 36Cl- and 35S-sulfate transport by mouse Slc26a6 contrasted with low transport rates of the human proteins. The high 36Cl- transport phenotype cosegregated with the transmembrane domain of mouse Slc26a6 in chimera studies. Mouse Slc26a6 and human SLC26A6 each mediated electroneutral Cl-/HCO3- and Cl-/OH- exchange. But, whereas Cl-/oxalate exchange by mouse Slc26a6 was electrogenic, that mediated by human SLC26A6 appeared electroneutral. Oocyte expression of either mouse or human orthologue elicited currents that were pharmacologically distinct from the monovalent anion exchange activities measured in the same lots of oocytes. The human SLC26A6 polypeptide variants SLC26A6c and SLC26A6d were inactive in isotopic flux assays. Understanding of SLC26 transport mechanisms and pathophysiology will benefit from recognition of substantial differences in transport properties among orthologues.
A Territorial Sea Change: The Death on the High Seas Act and the Extension of the Territorial Sea

In March 2011, the Ninth Circuit ruled that the Death on the High Seas Act provides the exclusive remedy for deaths occurring both within the United States’ territorial sea and without the states’ traditional three-mile territorial boundaries. This ruling created a split with the Second Circuit, which had handed down a different interpretation of the Act eleven years earlier. Prior to President Ronald Reagan’s extension of the territorial sea of the United States in 1988, there was no issue regarding the operation of the Death on the High Seas Act because the statute’s three-mile scope and the nation’s boundaries were coextensive. The extension, coupled with U.S. Supreme Court deliberation over maritime wrongful death actions, created a “perfect storm” around the Act’s territorial purview, raising issues of statutory construction, preemption, and federal-state comity. This Note examines the significant issues relevant to the Act’s application. It reviews the chief arguments proffered by the Ninth and Second Circuits, including then-Judge Sonia Sotomayor’s dissent in the latter case. The Note next considers the Second Circuit’s problematic holding and parses the opinion’s persistent contradictions and inconsistencies. It then explores recent congressional action that further bolsters the arguments against the Second Circuit’s position. The Note concludes that, absent congressional action, the Second Circuit must reconsider its holding when it next hears the issue.
Effects of ventromedial hypothalamic destruction in rats with preexisting streptozotocin-induced diabetes.

Abstract This report describes the effects of electrolytic destruction of the ventromedial hypothalamic nuclei (VMN) in rats previously made diabetic by injection of streptozotocin. Results were compared to those obtained following VMN destruction in non-diabetic rats. Findings indicate that diabetes does not entirely prevent the obesity or changes in adipose tissue metabolism seen after VMN destruction, whereas it does prevent the development of hyperinsulinemia or significant increase in hypertriglyceridemia. Possible mechanisms are discussed.
Rocky Mountain Refuge: Constructing "Colorado" in Science Fiction

Colorado has long functioned in American culture as the epitome of the American West, identified both as a safe refuge and as a place for starting over. This essay examines the ways in which writers of speculative ficiton have drawn on Colorado’s historically constructed identity as the setting for stories of refuge and retreat. The discussion examines parallels in the use of the Colorado setting by sf writers Robert A. Heinlein, Philip K. Dick, Walter M. Miller, Jr., Leigh Brackett, and Ursula K. LeGuin, by political novelist Ayn Rand, and by mainstream thriller writers Stephen King and Justin Cronin. The analysis suggests that popular ideas about regional characteristics can play important roles in framing the science-fiction imagination. This content downloaded from 207.46.13.105 on Wed, 25 May 2016 06:21:16 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms
Oral History in Social Work Education: Chronicling the Black Experience.

Abstract Oral history is a useful research and teaching tool for integrating black content in social work education. It facilitates knowledge-building, enhances integration of professional values, provides a forum for testing professional skills, and expands teaching and research methodology. Examples of objectives and learning activities for the major curriculum areas are provided.
Video capsule endoscopy is successful and effective in outpatients with implantable cardiac devices

Background and Aim Implantable cardiac devices are a relative contraindication to video capsule endoscopy (VCE) because of concerns regarding interference. As a result of a lack of alternatives, some centers have adopted protocols to allow for VCE in these patients. There are minimal published descriptions of the gastrointestinal outcomes of these procedures. We investigated the completion rate and diagnostic yield of VCE carried out in outpatients with implantable cardiac devices. Methods We carried out a retrospective review of all VCE from April 2010 through March 2013 at our center. Patients that underwent VCE through a specialized protocol for outpatients with implantable cardiac devices were identified. The protocol used telemetry for cardiac monitoring during battery lifespan of the VCE. Demographic data, procedure indications, results and any procedural events were collected. Results Twenty-one patients met the study criteria, with 16 (76%) pacemakers, four (19%) implantable cardioverter defibrilla tors and one (5%) implantable hemodynamic monitor. Two (10%) devices were adjusted prior to VCE. Twenty (95%) were completed to the colon, with a median gastric transit time of 18 min and a small bowel transit time of 216 min. The procedure was diagnostic in 13 (62%) patients. One (5%) capsule retention event occurred. No cardiac events or video capture disturbances occurred. Conclusions Video capsule endoscopy done on outpatients with implantable cardiac devices through a cardiac monitoring protocol resulted in a satisfactory completion rate and high diagnostic yield with no adverse cardiac events. A large prospective trial is needed to confirm these novel results.
A modular proof of correctness for a network synchronizer

In this paper we offer a formal, rigorous proof of the correctness of Awerbuch's algorithm for network synchronization. We specify both the algorithm and the correctness condition using the I/O automaton model, which has previously been used to describe and verify algorithms for concurrency control and resource allocation. We show that the model is also a powerful tool for reasoning about distributed graph algorithms. Our proof of correctness follows closely the intuitive arguments made by the designer of the algorithm by exploiting the model's natural support for such important design techniques as stepwise refinement and modularity. In particular, since the algorithm uses simpler algorithms for synchronization within and between ‘clusters’ of nodes, our proof can import as lemmas the correctness of these simpler algorithms.
Methyl chloride from the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder: First global climatology and assessment of variability in the upper troposphere and stratosphere

[1] Methyl chloride (CH3Cl) is by far the largest natural carrier of chlorine to the stratosphere. Its importance in stratospheric ozone chemistry is expected to increase in the coming decades as emission controls alter the relative contributions from natural and anthropogenic halogen sources. The Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) on NASA's Aura satellite provides the first daily global observations of CH3Cl. Here we quantify the quality of the MLS version 3 CH3Cl data (single-profile precision of ±100 pptv; accuracy of 30–45%; vertical and horizontal resolution of 4–5 km and 450–600 km, respectively) and demonstrate their utility for scientific studies over the vertical range from 147 to 4.6 hPa. We exploit the unmatched scope of the 8 year MLS data set to investigate the spatial, seasonal, and interannual variations in the distribution of CH3Cl in the upper troposphere/lower stratosphere (UTLS). Like carbon monoxide, CH3Cl is a marker of pollution from biomass burning that can be lofted to the UTLS very rapidly by deep convection. The climatological seasonal cycle in CH3Cl reflects variability in regional fire activity and other surface sources as well as convection, and anomalous CH3Cl enhancements in the tropical upper troposphere are linked to specific episodes of intense burning. Methyl chloride is shown to be very useful as a tracer of large-scale dynamical processes, such as diabatic descent inside the stratospheric winter polar vortices, quasi-isentropic cross-tropopause transport associated with the summer monsoon circulations, and effects related to the quasi-biennial oscillation and the tropical “tape recorder”.
Does cellulose II exist in native alga cell walls? Cellulose structure of Derbesia cell walls studied with SFG, IR and XRD

In nature, algae produce cellulose I where all glucan chains are aligned parallel. However, the presence of cellulose II with anti-parallel glucan chains has been reported for certain Derbesia (Chlorophyceae algae) cell walls; if this is true, it would mean a new biological process for synthesizing cellulose that has not yet been recognized. To answer this question, we examined cellulose structure in Derbesia cell walls, intact as well as treated with cellulose isolation procedures, using sum-frequency-generation spectroscopy, infrared (IR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Derbesia walls contain large amounts of mannan and small amounts of crystalline cellulose. Evidence for cellulose II in the intact cell walls was not found, whereas cellulose II in the trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) treated cell wall samples were detected by IR and XRD. A control experiment conducted with ball-milled Avicel cellulose samples showed that cellulose II structure could be formed as a result of TFA treatment and drying of amorphous cellulose. These data suggest that the cellulose II structure detected in the TFA-treated Derbesia gametophyte wall samples is most likely due to reorganization of amorphous cellulose during the sample preparation. Our results contradict the previous report of cellulose II in native alga cell walls. Even if the crystalline cellulose II exists in intact Derbesia gametophyte cell walls, its amount would be very small (below the detection limit) and thus biologically insignificant.
Density dependent regulation of colchicine inhibition of mitogenesis in 3T3 cells arrested in Go.

Summary The effect of colchicine on mitogenesis in 3T3 cells arrested in G o at different cell densities has been studied. Colchicine inhibits DNA synthesis in 3T3 cells arrested at low cell density. The inhibition of DNA synthesis by colchicine is diminished in high cell density cultures. Lumicolchicine does not inhibit DNA synthesis in low cell density cultures. These results suggest that: (1) structures that contain microtubules are involved in regulating the growth of 3T3 cells; (2) cell density can regulate the state of 3T3 cells arrested in G o ; and (3) in 3T3 cells arrested in G o some biological processes that are dependent on microtubule containing structures may depend on cell density.
Determining Democracy in the Organization of the Islamic Conference

Objectives. We determine the conditions that account for change in the realized level of political rights and civil liberties within the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC). Methods. We use ordered logit to assess the impact of religious pluralism and fragmentation and related controls on changes in Freedom House Political Rights and Civil Liberties scores at five-year intervals between 1976 and 2004. Results. Findings suggest that the presence of non-Islamic religious groups within OIC states leads to an increase in political rights, while the presence of Islamic groups practicing a version of the faith not officially recognized by the state reduced political rights and civil liberties. Conclusions. Islam's influence on democratization does not fall neatly into either the “pro” or “con” categories that have so strongly defined the relevant literature. Islam's influence is, instead, variable and contingent on the wider degree of religious characteristics within each state.
Prediction of university enrollment using computational intelligence

This work presents a study on prediction of university enrollment using three computational intelligence (CI) techniques. The enrollment forecasting has been considered as a form of time series prediction using CI techniques that include an artificial neural network (ANN), a neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and an aggregated fuzzy time series model. A novel form of ANN, namely, single multiplicative neuron (SMN), as an alternative to traditional multi-layer perceptron (MLP), has been used for time series prediction. A variation of population based heuristic optimization approach, namely, co-operative particle swarm optimization (COPSO), has been used to estimate the parameters for the SMN, the combination is termed here as COPSO-SMN. The second CI technique used for time series prediction is adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) which combines the advantages of ANN and fuzzy logic (FL). The third technique is based on an aggregated fuzzy time series model that utilizes both global trend of the past data and the local fuzzy fluctuations. The first two CI models have been developed for one-step-ahead prediction of time series using the data of the current time and three previous time steps. The models based on these three techniques have been trained using a previously published dataset. The models have been further trained and tested using enrollment data of Georgia Southern University for the period of 1924–2012. The training and test performances of all three CI techniques have been compared for the datasets.
Global hip‐hop identities: Black youth, psychoanalytic action research, and the Moving to the Beat project

The paper presents a psychoanalytically informed analysis of the concept of hip-hop identity through the lens of a four-year social action research and documentary film project, titled Moving to the Beat (M2B). The M2B project sought to document and unpack key psychological and social dynamics behind the struggle for a global identity among Black hip-hop activists in Africa and America. Two groups were formed, one in Portland, Oregon and a second in Freetown, Sierra Leone, with the aim of enlisting hip-hop as a mode of cross-cultural dialogue and as a forum for activism. Three key themes are discussed as they emerged as sites of creative conflict through the M2B project: the struggle to establish a progressive identity over against politically and psychologically regressive currents in hip-hop culture, the search for authenticity in the context of globally manufactured identities, and differing conceptions of rebellion and intergenerational conflict. The paper describes how psychoanalytic theory informed the process of producing the Moving to the Beat documentary film and working through these sites of conflict in negotiating the borders of hip-hop global identities. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy Intensity and Carbon Emission Responses to Technological Change: The U.S. Outlook

Technological progress, energy use, energy intensity, and carbon mitigation are tightly intertwined concepts within the worldwide climate change debate. The state-of-the-art National Energy Modeling System (NEMS) is used to examine, for the US: (a) the potential role of technological progress on energy supply, consumption, and prices in US energy markets and their impact on carbon emissions; (b) how success on one side of the supply or demand equation may reduce the potential benefits of technological progress on the other side; and (c) the sensitivity of energy intensity in the US to technological change and adoption. Some of the key findings of the analysis include: (a) technological progress alone (without significant and effective new policies) is insufficient to achieve reduction of carbon emissions at or near 1990 levels by 2010; (b) successful R and D programs that improve the availability and market acceptance of cost-efficient transportation technologies, coupled with successful oil and gas supply R and D programs, could have a significant impact on reducing US dependence on imported oil; (c) the annual rate of decline of energy intensity (primary energy used per dollar of GDP) between 1996 and 2015 appears to be bounded by 1.25% when real energy prices aremore » relatively stable or gradually rising, even when more advanced technologies are made available to the market.« less
The Termination of State-Run International Trade Programs in California: Perspectives on Contributing Factors and Future Policy Options

The paper examines developments that led to the termination of California’s major state-run international trade programs managed by the now defunct Technology, Trade and Commerce Agency and provides perspectives on future policy options. Study findings indicate that what the academic literature refers to as “theory failure” and “implementation failure,” along with deficiencies in leadership and organizational culture, must be seen as the major reasons for the programs’ elimination.
Polarized Electronic Spectroscopy and Photophysical Properties of 9,10-Bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene

The photophysics and electronic spectroscopy of 9,10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene (BPEA) were studied using absorption spectroscopy with polarized light, fluorescence anisotropy, and simple semiempirical calculations. The UV−vis spectrum of BPEA in fluid media shows a diminished vibrational resolution as compared to the fluorescence spectrum, whereas this resolution is recovered when a polyethylene film is used as the solvent. By comparison with the results of the semiempirical calculations, we conclude that the behavior in fluid media is a result of the coexistence of several conformations. In contrast, only the planar conformation exists in the polymer, giving a well-resolved spectrum. Dichroic UV−vis spectra show that the lowest energy transition is polarized along the long axis of the molecule (short axis of the anthracene frame) and shows the existence of an overlapping blue-shifted band with perpendicular polarization, which has null oscillator strength in pristine anthracene. The spectral overlap i...
Metabolic effects of β, α1, and α2 adrenoceptor activation on brown adipocytes isolated from the perirenal adipose tissue of fetal lambs

Brown adipocytes can be readily isolated by collagenase digestion of perirenal adipose tissue from fetal lambs. In isolated cells the addition of phenylephrine in the presence of alprenolol (to specifically stimulate alpha adrenoceptors) resulted in an increase in de novo synthesis of phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidic acid. The stimulatory effects were preferentially inhibited by prazosin while yohimbine had little effect, indicating that the adrenoceptors were alpha 1 in character. Isoproterenol stimulated cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) accumulation and lipolysis as well as respiration. Forskolin also mimicked the effects of beta adrenergic stimulation. Clonidine, a specific alpha 2 adrenergic agonist, inhibited lipolysis and cyclic AMP accumulation. Insulin inhibited cyclic AMP accumulation and stimulated glucose metabolism in the adipocytes. The present studies indicate that beta, alpha 1, and alpha 2 adrenergic as well as insulin responses can be detected in ovine perirenal adipocytes.
Dynamics of Agulhas Retroflection and Ring Formation in a Numerical Model. Part II. Energetics and Ring Formation

Abstract An energetics analysis of several numerical experiments on an idealized South Atlantic-Indian Ocean basin is presented. The model used in the experiments is the quasi-isopycnic coordinate model of Bleck and Boundra forced by wind and configured with two or three layers. The region of focus is the most dynamically active one, the Agulhas Current retroflection south of Africa, and the dynamical mechanisms associated with formation of Agulhas rings are given special attention. Whether rings form in the model and their frequency depend on two primary factors: the shape of Africa and southward inertia/baroclinicity in the overshooting Agulhas. The boundary condition on Africa (no-slip/free-slip) and horizontal resolution are also important. Experiments in which rings form exhibit considerably larger values of KM to KE transfer than those in which no rings form. In three of the experiments, ring formation is studied in detail with the help of instantaneous top and bottom layer flow patterns and time se...
The Lyman-α Problem and the Geocoma Hypothesis

IN a recent review article, Donahue1 has discussed the various hypotheses put forward to explain the observed Lyman-α radiation2,3 in the night sky. The observed radiation is apparently solar Lyman-α radiation scattered by neutral hydrogen. There are three hypotheses concerning the location of the hydrogen: namely, the interplanetary hypothesis3; the geocorona hypothesis4,5 (origin in a thin, essentially spherical shell with multiple scattering important); and the geocoma hypothesis6,7 (origin in a comet-like distribution at distances greater than some 5–10 RE single scattering important). It is felt that the review1 is generally not unfavourable to the geocoma hypothesis, but several important points were raised by Donahue. The purpose of this communication is to discuss briefly the general status of the geocoma hypothesis in the light of recent observational and theoretical evidence and, in particular, to discuss the problems noted by Donahue.
An iterative aggregation and disaggregation method for the steady state solution of large scale continuous systems

Abstract Iterative aggregation and disaggregation (IAD) methods are a class of iterative methods which allow the fast calculation of the eigenvector corresponding to the unit eigenvalue of large stochastic matrices. This makes them particularly appealing to use in high resolution studies of large continuous systems. In this paper it is shown how an IAD matrix method with pre- and post-smoothing steps can be used to obtain the steady state probability distribution of large scale continuous systems. The method is illustrated in two numerical examples of overdamped Brownian motion processes subject to external potentials.
The Corporatist Antecedent of Contemporary State-Islam Relations

This article explores the theoretical underpinnings of the state-led establishment of quasi-monopolistic Islam Councils in Western Europe. The author argues that national consultations representing the Muslim faith in seven European countries share institutional characteristics with 19th and 20th century corporatist arrangements with Labor and Jewish Communities, and pursue similar goals of rendering faith and group ideology compatible with national citizenship while encouraging the moderation of group demands on the state.
Radiative and collisional effects in a cylindrically confined plasma—II. Absorption effects

Abstract A comprehensive model has been developed for radiation emission and absorption in cylindrically confined plasmas, and calculations have been performed for the asymptotic region of an argon arc plasma. Radiation absorption is shown, in general, to have a negligible effect on bound level populations. The exception is for the near wall region of the 35 A arc, for which self-absorption in the lines of the 4s-4p array has a significant effect. For the 4s-4p array, absorption also significantly reduces the radiation flux to the constrictor wall.
Institutional Predictors of Developmental Outcomes Among Racially Diverse Foster Care Alumni

Child welfare practitioners are confronted with the responsibility of relying on best practice to ensure children in foster care transition successfully into adulthood after leaving the foster care system. Yet, despite recent reforms and efforts to address their needs, research clearly shows that foster care alumni are still more likely to experience negative developmental outcomes compared to adults in the general population. The purpose of this study was to better understand how child-serving systems of care adequately prepare racially diverse foster care alumni to thrive. Controlling for gender, age, placement instability, and circumstances of exit from foster care, study findings highlighted salient racial and ethnic differences relative to which factors predicted the odds of mental health, education, and employment outcomes. Implications for developing and implementing culturally sensitive, evidence-based prevention and intervention programs to promote positive developmental outcomes among racially diverse foster care alumni are discussed.
Optical trapping for tissue scaffold fabrication

We investigate holographic optical trapping combined with step-and-repeat maskless projection stereolithography for fine control of 3D position of living cells within a 3D microstructured hydrogel. C2C12 myoblast cells were chosen as a demonstration platform because their development into multinucleated myotubes requires linear arrangements of myoblasts. C2C12 cells are positioned in the monomer solution with multiple optical traps at 1064 nm and then are encapsulated by photopolymerization of monomer via projection of a 512x512 spatial light modulator (SLM) illuminated at 405 nm. High 405 nm sensitivity and complete insensitivity to 1064 nm is enabled by a lithium acylphosphinate (LAP) salt photoinitiator. Use of a polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) based monomer is compared to that of polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogels formed by thiol-ene photo-click chemistry for patterning structures with cellular resolution, and for maintaining cell viability. Cells patterned in thiol-ene with RGD are shown to retain viability up to 4 days after the trapping and encapsulation procedure. Further, cells patterned in thiol-ene with RGD and a degradable ester link, are shown to fuse, indicating the initial stages of development of multi-nucleated cells.
Neurocutaneous melanosis: Definition and review of the literature

Neurocutaneous melanosis is a rare congenital syndrome characterized by the presence of large or multiple congenital melanocytic nevi and benign or malignant pigment cell tumors of the leptomeninges. The syndrome is thought to represent an error in the morphogenesis of the embryonal neuroectoderm. We review 39 reported cases of neurocutaneous melanosis and propose revised criteria for diagnosis. Most patients with neurocutaneous melanosis presented in the first 2 years of life with neurologic manifestations of increased intracranial pressure, mass lesions, or spinal cord compression. Leptomeningeal melanoma was present in 62% of the cases, but even in the absence of melanoma, symptomatic neurocutaneous melanosis had an extremely poor prognosis. Useful diagnostic procedures include cerebrospinal fluid cytology and magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium contrast. Patients may be aided by palliative measures such as shunt placement to reduce intracranial pressure. Dermatologists in their follow-up of patients with large or multiple congenital melanocytic nevi should be aware of this condition, to aid in prompt diagnosis and because the treatment of cutaneous lesions may be altered in the presence of symptomatic Nurocutaneous melanosis.
Electromagnetic properties of levels in 55Mn

Abstract Excited levels of 55Mn were produced by the reaction 52Cr(α, p) at 10.5 and 11.1 MeV beam energy. A series of γ-ray measurements was made, all in coincidence with protons detected near 180°. A Ge(Li) γ-ray detector was used at 4 angles, and extensive angular-correlation measurements were made with an array of NaI(Tl) detectors. Excitation energies of 25 levels up to 3161 keV were determined, including a new level at 2215 keV. Only the level at 2285 keV and the 1 2 − state near 1290 keV were not observed in this range. From Doppler-shift attenuations, the mean lifetimes of 14 levels up to 2565 keV were deduced. Branching ratios and multipole mixing ratios were obtained for most of these levels. The following spin assignments were determined: 1530 keV, J = 3 2 ; 1885 keV, J = 7 2 or 5 2 ; 2565 keV, J = 3 2 . Reduced transition probabilities, B (M1) and B (E2), of many transitions were calculated from these experimental results and are compared with the available theoretical values.
Where are we going in radiation protection

Abstract An effort has been made to emphasize the importance of education in answering the challenge: “Where are we going in radiation protection?” Radiation protection and the entire discipline of radiology become synonymous when one thinks in terms of diagnostic yield per unit of radiation exposure. Many persons and groups need to be educated in a variety of ways in order to improve the standards of dental practice and concurrently improve the risk-gain ratio that always must be considered whenever ionizing radiation is used. Dentistry's small contribution to the population's ionizing radiation exposure cannot be used as an excuse to justify inadequacies. There exists a health problem of unknown magnitude involving present and future generations. This must be recognized by all individuals and groups, both within and outside dentistry, who have the potential for exercising control. Recognition and remedy of the problem must come through education. This is one way we should be going in radiation protection.
Vibrational transition current density in (2 S,3 S)-oxirane-d 2 : visualizing electronic and nuclear contributions to IR absorption and vibrational circular dichroism intensities

Abstract Vibrational transition current density (TCD) plots and charge-weighted nuclear displacement vectors for selected vibrational modes of A and B symmetry in (2 S ,3 S )-oxirane-d 2 are used to visualize the electronic and nuclear contributions to infrared absorption and vibrational circular dichroism intensities. Vibrational TCD provides a vector field map of the integrand of the electronic contribution to the velocity-form electric dipole transition moment. Linear nuclear and electronic charge flow in planes parallel to the electric dipole transition moment vector provides visualization of contributions to IR intensity, while angular and circular charge flow perpendicular to this vector provide visualization of the magnetic dipole transition moment content of vibrational circular dichroism intensity. Four vibrational modes with several types of nuclear motion and the effect of basis set size on vibrational TCD are examined.
A conceptual model for the relationship between coronae and large-scale mantle dynamics on Venus

[1] Among the most enigmatic features on Venus are the more than 500 quasi-circular structures collectively referred to as coronae. Associated volcanism and tectonism suggest that coronae result from small, transient mantle plumes, although only about 20% have clearly associated positive gravity anomalies indicative of current activity. Coronae are concentrated within a region defined by the dynamically active highland areas of Beta, Atla, and Themis Regiones (BAT). Coronae avoid the lowest or highest topography and geoid. Subsets of the corona population indicate that the spatial distribution of coronae has evolved from a previously less concentrated global distribution to the current BAT concentration. Recent laboratory experiments on thermal convection at high Rayleigh number, using fluids with temperature-dependent viscosity, suggest a straightforward interpretation of these relationships. Small-scale upwellings from a hot lower thermal boundary layer tend to be excluded by longer-wavelength downwelling structures from the cold upper boundary layer. The relative paucity of coronae in the broad lowland plains regions is consistent with the inference of mantle downwellings beneath the plains. Coronae are largely excluded from compensated highlands, perhaps because the thickened crust is not easily disrupted in these regions. Laboratory experiments indicate that small, transient, boundary layer instabilities can coexist with, and be focused toward, large-scale upwellings, possibly explaining the spatial concentration of coronae in the BAT region. Thus coronae provide important insights into interacting scales of convective flow in Venus's mantle and into the evolution of Venus's mantle dynamics. Direct tests of our model are possible through geological mapping.
A new factor related to TATA-binding protein has highly restricted expression patterns in Drosophila

The TATA-binding protein TBP is necessary for the transcription of eukaryotic genes. Multi-protein complexes formed by TBP and different TBP-associated factors are involved in the initiation of transcription by polymerases I and II, and probably III as well. During the formation of an active initiation complex, TBP makes specific contacts with other proteins, for example TFIIB and RNA polymerase II (refs 2-4). Here we describe the cloning and characterization of a Drosophila gene product with considerable sequence similarity to TBP and a highly restricted expression pattern in the embryo. This TBP-related factor is a DNA-binding protein but is not likely to be a basal transcription factor. Our results suggest that TBP-related factor is a sequence-specific transcription factor that shares the DNA-binding properties of TBP.
Bromocriptine-Induced Changes in the Biochemistry, Physiology, and Histology of the Intermediate Lobe of the Rat Pituitary Gland

Treatment of rats with 2-Br-alpha-ergocryptine (bromocriptine; CB 154) elicits biochemical, physiological, and histological changes in the intermediate lobe (IL) of the rat pituitary gland, suggesting a decrease in activity in the IL. CB 154 treatment decreases 1) the capacity of the IL to synthesize proopiomelanocortin (POMC), 2) the content of mRNA directing the synthesis of POMC, and 3) the capacity of the IL to synthesize the peptides desacetyl alpha MSH, N,O-diacetyl alpha MSH, and alpha MSH. CB 154 treatment also causes a 40% loss of IL protein and an atrophy of the IL. CB 154 treatment has a biphasic effect upon the IL content of alpha MSH-like peptides; the drug first increases and then diminishes the content of these molecules. Control experiments using CB 154-treated IL tissue suggest that these effects of CB 154 are not a toxic effect of CB 154 on the IL. Spiroperidol reverses the effects of CB 154 on POMC synthesis and POMC mRNA content; by itself, spiroperidol increases the IL synthesis of POMC, the IL content of POMC mRNA, and the capacity of the IL to synthesize immunoreactive alpha MSH. Stalk section of rat pituitary gland also results in an increase in the capacity of the IL to synthesize POMC. These results suggest that a D-2 dopamine receptor mediates a tonic inhibition of the function of the IL.
Multiple fruiting of the edible mushroomCoprinus cinereus from explants of the stipe

Carpophores were developed on defined medium from explants of stipes produced in the dark using an expansionless mutant (no. 190) ofCoprinus cinereus. Explants taken from stipes within 24 h of formation developed multiple fruit within 3–12 days without formation of mycelia. Fruiting levels were affected by stipe age (24 h), medium composition, explant size, and polarity of the explant on fruiting medium. This method offers a new tool for developmental studies and may also be of use to commercial mushroom growers.
Clinical and radiographic outcomes using local bone shavings as autograft in minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.

Background Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) augmented with pedicle screw instrumentation has become a favored surgical treatment for management of lumbar degenerative disease and spondylolisthesis. Iliac crest bone graft has traditionally been used for interbody arthrodesis. Many substitutes for autograft have been suggested to reduce iliac crest graft morbidity. The present study was aimed to determine fusion rate and clinical outcome with local bone autograft drill shavings harvested during minimally invasive (MI) TLIF. Methods A retrospective study of 40 patients who underwent MI-TLIF using a cage filled with local bone shavings and pedicle screw fixation with a minimum 1-year imaging follow-up was performed. Bone shavings were collected during surgery by use of a simple specimen trap device. Fusion was assessed with computed tomography scan with sagittal and coronal reconstructions. Clinical assessment was performed using patient-filled preoperative and postoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and leg and back pain visual analog scale (VAS) score. Results The mean age at time of surgery was 54 years (range, 21 to 84 years). Clinical outcome was graded as excellent or good in 65% and 27% of patients, respectively, based on improvement in ODI and VAS. The mean ODI, leg, and back pain VAS score improved from 66, 6, and 9 to 30, 1, and 3 after surgery (P Conclusions Use of a cage filled with local bone shavings harvested using a specimen trap during MI-TLIF is simple and can result in up to a 70% fusion rate with good clinical outcome in 92% of patients. This is the first study assessing fusion rate with local bone shavings, and the results may help spine surgeons in choosing the best graft option for patients undergoing posterior lumbar fusion surgery.
Network Management Reconsidered: An Inquiry into Management of Network Structures in Public Sector Service Provision

Although policy and collaborative networks have been studied since the 1970s and 1980s, only recently has the management of these entities come under greater scrutiny. Studies of “network management” are designed to better understand the unique challenges of operating in a context where bureaucracy no longer provides the primary tool for “social steering.” These studies typically make three assumptions about networks, public managers, and the tasks of network management that empirical evidence from our casework in “Newstatia” suggests are suspect at best. If so, then network management theory needs to be reconsidered. The second half of this article begins this process. We have organized this article into six sections. The first defines policy and collaborative networks and discusses why analyzing them and their management independently is probably flawed. The second presents our data and justifications for believing the assumptions outlined above are oversimplifications. The third section reviews three perspectives and two partial models of network management and points out how the perspectives and models need integration. The fourth section develops a resource dependence framework for network management that can encompass the existing models and our new data on the environment in which network management occurs. The final section outlines a series of propositions that flow from our reconsideration of network management.
Theoretical models for the covalent assembly of immunoglobulins

Abstract Theoretical models for the formation of interchain disulfide bonds in noncovalently assembled immunogiobulin molecules are presented. The formalism handles independent and cooperative bond formation with equal case. Analysis of certain experimental results on the covalent assembly of human immunogiobulin G yields information about the pathway of assembly. A model in which the formation of bonds between the light and heavy chains is independent of, but twice as fast as, those between two heavy chains, gives satisfactory agreement with these results. Simple models involving cooperative bond formation are also considered, but the experiments being analyzed are not accurate enough to unambiguously implicate any cooperative pathway.
Ethylm-hydroxycarbanilate carbanilate (EP-475) metabolism in sugar beets

The results of these experiments indicate that EP-475 was very slowly absorbed and translocated to a limited extent when applied topically to the leaves of sugar beet plants. Appreciable degradation of the compound was also evident. Only 10.7% of the applied dose chromatographed as EP-475 by 90 days after treatment. The hydroxyphenylcarbamate EHPC was the major EP-475 metabolite though significant amounts of AP were also present.