cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Management and Soil Conditions Influence Common Scab Severity on Potato Tubers Via Indirect Effects on Soil Microbial Communities

Common scab, caused by Streptomyces scabies and related species, is a potato tuber blemish disease that causes reductions in marketable yield worldwide. Evidence of suppression of common scab by indigenous soil microbial populations has been found in several studies. However, we lack a comprehensive understanding of how common scab severity relates functionally to potato varieties, farming systems, soil physical and chemical properties, and soil microbial communities. These factors may affect disease directly or indirectly by affecting one of the other variables. We performed a survey of 30 sampling locations across 12 fields in Wisconsin and used structural equation modeling to disentangle the direct effects of potato market classes, farm management (conventional versus organic), and soil physiochemical properties on common scab severity from their indirect effects mediated through soil bacterial and fungal communities. We found that, although potato market classes affected disease severity directly, the effects of farm management and soil physiochemistry were best explained as indirect, mediated by their impacts on soil bacterial communities. This suggests that evaluating the consequences of specific management practices for soil microbial communities may be useful for understanding disease pressure across fields.
Comparative Study of the Second-Order and Third-Order Systems for the Synchronization System under Distorted Grid Conditions

This paper presents our research on the performance of the grid synchronization system in a grid-connected inverter under distorted grid conditions. The generalized second-order and the third-order synchronization systems which are widely implemented in the inverter applications are compared in detail. Note that these synchronization systems are derived based on the transfer function approach and are able to generate two orthogonal outputs which are basically sine and cosine signals in the steady-state. It is interesting to see that the second-order system can give the same performance as the third-order system in terms of harmonic injection if its poles are designed properly. The simulation and experimental results are presented to confirm that these generalized systems are able to generate two perfectly orthogonal outputs to determine the grid information, i.e. voltage magnitude and phase angle. In addition, the performance of the generalized second-order and third-order systems under the distorted grid conditions are discussed. It is verified later that the second-order system is able to remove harmonics and accurately detect the grid information. In other words, the second-order system has similar to the third-order system if it is carefully designed.
Efficiency balanced designs for bootstrap simulations

This paper considers the balanced resampling design approach of generating bootstrap samples to handle the simulation error problem in bootstrap estimation of mean and variance of a sample statisti...
Gendered Conceptions of Preconception Health: A Thematic Analysis of Men's and Women's Beliefs about Responsibility for Preconception Health Behavior.

Preconception health (PCH) focuses on taking steps before a pregnancy to safeguard the health of the woman and future baby. Although recommendations to improve PCH target all people of reproductive...
Neuromuscular performance changes throughout the menstrual cycle in physically active females.

OBJECTIVES To determine changes in neuromuscular performance throughout the menstrual cycle in females aged 18-25. METHODS Fifty physically active college females (25 on oral contraceptives (OC)) were recruited to participate. Data collection visits coincided with early-follicular (Fp), ovulatory (Op), and the mid-luteal (Lp) phases. Isokinetic peak torque at the knee (IPT) was measured at 60°/sec, 180°/sec, and 300°/sec. Grip force was measured using a handheld dynamometer. Plasma estradiol and progesterone confirmed menstrual cycle and serum relaxin was screened as a potential covariate. RESULTS Grip strength was lower during Fp (30.1±0.7kg) than during Op (31.5±0.7 kg, p=0.003) and Lp (32.6±0.7 kg, p<0.001). IPT at 60°/sec was lower during Fp (83±14 nM) than during the Op (86±15 nM, p=0.02). IPTs at 180°/sec and 300°/sec were lower during Fp than Op and Lp (180°:54±10 vs. 58±10 and 61±11 nM [both, p<0.001]; 300°: 43±9 vs. 46±9 and 47±9 nM [both<0.001]. The OC group-by-phase interaction was not significant for any of the outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that muscular performance is diminished during Fp and the lack of group-by-phase interaction indicates that this effect is not hormone-related. These data indicate that females may be at a greater risk of injury due to decreased strength during Fp than other phases of their cycle.
Environmental Nutrients Alter Bacterial and Fungal Gut Microbiomes in the Common Meadow Katydid, Orchelimum vulgare

Insect gut microbiomes consist of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that can act as mutualists to influence the health and fitness of their hosts. While much has been done to increase understanding of the effects of environmental factors that drive insect ecology, there is less understanding of the effects of environmental factors on these gut microbial communities. For example, the effect of environmental nutrients on most insect gut microbiomes is poorly defined. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the relationship between environmental nutrients and the gut microbial communities in a small study of katydids (n = 13) of the orthopteran species Orchelimum vulgare collected from a costal prairie system. We sampled O. vulgare from unfertilized plots, as well as from plots fertilized with added nitrogen and phosphorus or sodium separately and in combination. We found significantly higher Shannon diversity for the gut bacterial communities in O. vulgare from plots fertilized with added sodium as compared to those collected from plots without added sodium. In contrast, diversity was significantly lower in the gut fungal communities of grasshoppers collected from plots with added nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as those with added sodium, in comparison to those with no added nutrients. There was also a strong positive correlation between the gut bacterial and gut fungal community diversity within each sample. Indicator group analysis for added sodium plots included several taxa with known salt-tolerant bacterial and fungal representatives. Therefore, despite the small sample number, these results highlight the potential for the gut bacterial and fungal constituents to respond differently to changes in environmental nutrient levels. Future studies with a larger sample size will help identify mechanistic determinants driving these changes. Based on our findings and the potential contribution of gut microbes to insect fitness and function, consideration of abiotic factors like soil nutrients along with characteristic gut microbial groups is necessary for better understanding and conservation of this important insect herbivore.
Divine Purposiveness and its Implications in Legal Theory: The Interplay of Kalam and Usul Al-Fiqh

While jurisprudents agree that the Sharia serves to benefit human beings because God is wise and merciful, they disagree as to the nature of the correlation between God’s rulings and these benefits. Does God legislate with the purpose of benefitting consumers of the law? In this essay I investigate the Ashʿari doctrine on whether God can be said to act purposively and how this doctrine influences legal theory (usul al-fiqh). I will examine Sayf al-Din al-Amidi’s position on this issue in his theological writings and his work on legal theory. By focusing on one particular aspect of legal theory, I will demonstrate how the issue of purposiveness in God’s acts substantively impacts methodologies for the derivation of legal rules. I will then highlight the mechanisms al-Amidi develops as a means of constructing a theory that maintains consistency and integrity, and compare his view to that of Fakhr al-Din al-Razi (d. 606/1209).
Compression, Denoising and Classification of ECG Signals using the Discrete Wavelet Transform and Deep Convolutional Neural Networks

Electrocardiogram (ECG) is the widely known and most common diagnosis test to analyze the electrical signal in the heart and to detect cardiac anomalies. The functionality of the human heart can be properly monitored, and cardiovascular diseases can be detected through the ECG signal. Early detection of cardiac arrhythmia is also possible by analyzing ECG heartbeats continuously. Millions of people in the world are suffering from cardiac arrhythmia which refers to irregular heartbeats. Accurate detection of irregular heartbeats in the primary stage can be also detected through the ECG signal which is very important to reduce the death caused by heart diseases.
A Tortuous History: The Student Loan Exception to Discharge

This is a short essay detailing the various times that Congress has enacted laws restricting the dischargeability of student loans in bankruptcy and the statements in the congressional record supporting those legislative changes.
Moving the Needle on Global Surgery Education in the US.

Objective Interest in global surgery continues to increase among students and trainees in the U.S. pursuing fields that provide perioperative care, including surgery, anesthesia, and OB/GYN. While some students and trainees successfully engage in global surgery-related research, advocacy, and clinical work, many individuals face gaps in global surgery education and opportunities. A lack of access to mentorship and resources can limit engagement with the shift from pursuing clinically-oriented experiences, such as short-term trips, to focusing on long-term models emphasizing equity. To address these challenges, motivated students and trainees have formed networks of future global surgery providers. Design Within the U.S., the Global Surgery Student Alliance (GSSA) has constructed a network reaching students and trainees at 75 medical schools. GSSA is able to connect American students and trainees with resources and mentors, as well as emphasizing the importance of equitable engagement in the global surgery field. GSSA also serves as the National Working Group for the International Student Surgical Network (InciSioN). Results Since launching in January 2017, GSSA has constructed a national leadership team that supports chapters at individual medical schools in addition to hosting nationwide events and producing resources. Using the global surgery education needs identified in the NextGen study, GSSA has authored toolkits aimed at guiding students towards ethical and equitable opportunities to engage in global surgery research, education, and advocacy. GSSA also hosts numerous events to help students prepare for potential careers in global surgery, including annual national symposia and frequent webinars. Additionally, GSSA has created a freely accessible database to connect students with peers and mentors within global surgery worldwide. Conclusion Students have created a national organization that connects future perioperative care providers with resources to engage in equitable global surgery advocacy, education, and research. GSSA helps bridge the gaps between interest, opportunity, and equity in global surgery work.
New Precordial T wave Inversions in Hospitalized Patients.

Abstract Background The incidence of precordial T changes has been described in athletes and in specific populations, while the etiology in a large patient population admitted to the hospital has not previously been reported. Methods All ECGs read by the same physician with new (compared to prior ECGs) or presumed new (no prior ECGs) precordial T wave inversions of >1 mm (0.1 mV) in multiple precordial leads were retrospectively reviewed and various ECG, patient-related and imaging parameters assessed. 226 patients and their ECGs were initially selected for analysis. Of these, 35 were eliminated leaving 191 for the final analysis. Results Patients and their ECGs were divided into 5 groups based on diagnosis and incidence including Wellens’ syndrome, takotsubo, type 2 myocardial infarction, other (including multiple diagnoses) and unknown. While subtle differences including number of T inversion leads, depth of T waves, QTc intervals and other variables were present between some groups, diagnosis in individual cases required appropriate clinical, laboratory and/or imaging studies. For example, although Wellens’ syndrome was identified in Conclusions Precordial T wave changes in hospitalized patients have various etiologies and, in individual cases, the changes on the ECG alone cannot easily distinguish the presumptive diagnosis and additional data are required.
The translational regulator Cup controls NMJ presynaptic terminal morphology

During oogenesis and early embryonic development in Drosophila, translation of proteins from maternally deposited mRNAs is tightly controlled. We and others have previously shown that translational regulatory proteins that function during oogenesis also have essential roles in the nervous system. Here we examine the role of Cup in neuromuscular system development. Maternal Cup controls translation of localized mRNAs encoding the Oskar and Nanos proteins and binds to the general translation initiation factor eIF4E. In this paper, we show that zygotic Cup protein is localized to presynaptic terminals at larval neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). cup mutant NMJs have strong phenotypes characterized by the presence of small clustered boutons called satellite boutons. They also exhibit an increase in the frequency of spontaneous glutamate release events (mEPSPs). Reduction of eIF4E expression synergizes with partial loss of Cup expression to produce satellite bouton phenotypes. The presence of satellite boutons is often associated with increases in retrograde bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling, and we show that synaptic BMP signaling is elevated in cup mutants. cup genetically interacts with four genes (EndoA, WASp, Dap160, and Synj) encoding proteins involved in endocytosis that are also neuronal modulators of the BMP pathway. Endophilin protein, encoded by the EndoA gene, is downregulated in a cup mutant. Our results are consistent with a model in which Cup and eIF4E work together to ensure efficient localization and translation of endocytosis proteins in motor neurons and control the strength of the retrograde BMP signal.
The Future of Immunizaton Information System Cross-Jurisdictional Data Exchange.

©2015 Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health Immunization information systems (IISs) are confidential, population-based, computerized databases that record all immunization doses administered by participating providers to people residing within a given geographic area.1 Wellmaintained IISs can generate a patient’s complete immunization history by consolidating vaccination records from different providers. They have the potential to solve an age-old problem in immunization recordkeeping—incompleteness caused by the movement of patients from one jurisdiction to another. When IISs are able to exchange real-time, bidirectional data among jurisdictions, they allow providers to effortlessly query immunization information in a different jurisdiction and correctly assess a patient’s immunization status. This ability to assess immunization status can reduce missed vaccination opportunities and prevent over-vaccination in everyday practice and during outbreaks or natural disasters. The exchange of IIS data also can support public health by generating more accurate jurisdiction-level reports, thereby enhancing efforts to target communities with low vaccination rates. However, to meet their potential, IISs must be able to share data across jurisdictions, something that is not possible for many IISs because of a lack of time, money, other resources, or the absence of necessary legal agreements.
A Review of “God's Empowered People: A Pentecostal Theology of the Laity”

Steven Fettke sets out to construct a proper theological understanding for the role of ‘laity’ from a Pentecostal perspective. Fettke introduces these issues with a historical overview of his own d...
High-performance multiqueue buffers for VLSI communication switches

A type of buffer called a dynamically allocated multiqueue (DAMQ) buffer, designed for use in n*n switches, is presented. This buffer provides efficient handling of variable-length packets and the forwarding of packets in non-FIFO (first-in-first-out) order. The microarchitecture of the DAMQ buffer and its controller is described in the context of the ComCoBB communication coprocessor for multicomputers. The DAMQ buffer can be efficiently implemented in LVSI to support packet transmission and reception at the rate of one byte per clock cycle. With a hardwired linked-list manager and a fast-routing mechanism, the ComCoBB chip will support virtual cut-through of messages with a latency of four cycles. The performance of the DAMQ buffer is compared with that of three alternative buffers in the context of a multistage interconnection network. Simulations show that for uniform traffic the DAMQ buffer results in significantly lower latencies and higher maximal throughput than other designs with the same total buffer storage capacity. >
From Animals to Humans: Models and Constructs

Publisher Summary Several testing procedures are available for assessing cognitive, sensory, and motor functions in animal models. These range from screening tests or batteries to very sophisticated and detailed assessment of functional abilities of the subject. Many of the same cognitive domains can be investigated in animals as those that have been found sensitive to toxicant exposure in children: learning, memory, adaptability, attention, impulsivity, distractibility, and perseverative behavior. Motor function can be assessed in animal models by numerous techniques, and results are directly applicable to humans. The visual system of typical animal models (nocturnal rodents) lacks good color and spatial vision; therefore, important aspects of human vision are difficult to assess. However, visual loss in rodents may be predictive of loss in the same function in humans, and mechanisms of toxicity can be productively studied in rodents. For senses other than vision, the physiological processes of animals and humans are the same or, at least, very similar. It is important to be cognizant of certain caveats. Simple (screening) tests may be nonspecific, insensitive, or both). The lack of good stimulus control for the sensory system assessment results in increased variability and therefore decreased sensitivity.
Morphological studies of developing Rubus prickles suggest that they are modified glandular trichomes

Prickles are defined as outgrowths of epidermal tissues and can provide a simple developmental system for the study of the control of cell proliferation and growth. Setting the stage for future stu...
Reliability and Validity of Imaging Diagnosis of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

The purpose of this article is to review reliability and validity of imaging diagnosis of temporomandibular joint disorders. Plain-film and tomography are basic imaging techniques for assessment of the temporomandibular joint. These can be used for evaluation of osseous disease and as a baseline for follow-up. In patients with symptoms from the joint, plain-film and tomography are rarely definitive, and evaluation of the soft tissues is frequently necessary. Arthrography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging have all been used for evaluation of the soft-tissue components of the joints. Accuracy studies of these techniques have demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy for magnetic resonance imaging. Arthrography is relatively insensitive for detection of medial and lateral displacements. Magnetic resonance imaging accurately depicts both hard and soft tissues, and this technique is emerging as the prime diagnostic imaging technique in patients presenting with clinical signs and symptoms of a disorder of the temporomandibular joint. The most frequent findings when patients with clinical symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders are "imaged" are different forms of disc displacement and degenerative joint disease. Studies have demonstrated a high prevalence of different forms of disc displacement in patients, although these abnormalities are also seen in some asymptomatic volunteers. Future research should further refine imaging techniques to come closer to an understanding of the association between morphologic alterations and patient symptoms.
Protease-specific suppression of pancreatic exocrine secretion

Abstract The purposes of this study were to (a) evaluate the effect of pancreatic extract administered to patients with chronic pancreatitis and recurrent abdominal pain in a placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover study, (b) investigate the effects of acute intraduodenal pancreatic enzyme perfusion on pancreatic secretion, and (c) assess the effect of chronic, noninterrupted pancreatic extract administration on basal and stimulated pancreatic secretion. These studies demonstrated that pancreatic extract decreases abdominal pain and that intraduodenal perfusion with proteases but not with amylase or lipase suppresses pancreatic exocrine secretion in patients with chronic pancreatitis. Chronic administration of pancreatic extract to patients with chronic pancreatitis decreased both basal and stimulated pancreatic exocrine secretion.
Visual scanning strategies of neurologically impaired, percepually imfaired, and normal children viewing the Bender‐Gestalt designs

The purpose of the present study was to describe and compare the visual encoding processes and copying performance of normal children and children with perceptual and neurological disabilities viewing the Bender-Gestalt designs. The eye movements of these children were recorded as they examined the nine designs of the Bender-Gestalt test. In addition, protocols of the test were obtained in the standard way. Clear qualitative and quantitative differences in the scanning strategies were found among each of the three diagnostic groups. No differences were found in the reporductions of the designs for normals and perceptually impaired children. However, the designs of the neurologically impaired children were significantly different from those of either of the other two diagnostic groups. The results are discussed with respect to the use of eye movement data as a technique to examine visual perceptual deficiencies indepently of motoric functions. Encoding processes charactersitic of the three groups are inferred from their scanning strategies and the relationship between these encoding processes and psychosenory learning disabilities is discussed.
Pseudomonas bacteremia as an initial presentation of SLE

Infections have been commonly implicated in lupus relapses and in some cases as initiating the diagnostic work up of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We describe here the case of a young patient who presented with Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia and was found to have a new diagnosis of SLE. 53% of patients with active SLE and abdominal pain have intestinal vasculitis. These vasculitic changes can cause intestinal ischemia with consequent translocation of pathogens from the gastrointestinal tract to the bloodstream causing sepsis.
The effects of various narcotic agonists and antagonists on deprivation-induced fluid consumption

Abstract When rats in a standardized deprivation-induced fluid consumption test system were given single doses of a variety of narcotic antagonists, dose-dependent reductions in fluid intake were obtained, once a threshold level was reached. Sub-threshold doses of the antagonists were without effect. In contrast, a variety of narcotic agonists, produced biphasic responses, with an initial dipsogenic effect followed by a subsequent dose-dependent decrease in fluid consumption as doses were increased.
Characterization of cytosolic glutathione S-transferases in striped bass (Morone saxitilis).

Abstract Electrophilic compounds are ubiquitous in the environment and aquatic life is inevitably affected. Glutathione S -transferases (GSTs) are a class of enzymes that facilitate the detoxification of these electrophiles in phase II metabolism. In this study, cytosolic GSTs were isolated and characterized from striped bass liver ( Morone saxitilis ). Nanospray liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was used to elucidate peptide sequences, and the proteins were found to have homology to ρ and α by searching against the NCBI non-redundant database (nrDB). Catalytic activities of the cytosolic GSTs towards 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) were determined to be 141±34 and 155±65 nmol/min/mg for males and females, respectively (both n =3). However, sex differences in classes expressed and activity toward CDNB were not statistically significant ( p >0.05).
On the A o -acceptability of rational approximations to the exponential function with only real poles

We consider rational approximations to the exponential function with real poles, γ1−1,...,γm−1, that correspond to implicit Runge-Kutta collocation methods. We show that if γi≥1/2,i=1,...,m, the rational approximation isA0-acceptable.
Limited outlet distribution: Selective and exclusive channel distribution of the United States based national paper trade alliance firms

Abstract Within channels of distribution, the profitability of the wholesaler-distributor continues to be threatened from many sources. However, the imminent demise of the middleman that has been predicted for many years has yet to materialize. Those middlemen that do well have found ways of maintaining relevance and creating value. This paper seeks to evaluate how the participants in the supplier to distributor channel in a global industry both perceive and participate in selective or exclusive distribution, i.e. utilize a ‘Limited Outlet Distribution (LOD)’ strategy. Data were collected qualitatively through four case studies and quantitatively through the administration of an electronic questionnaire. Results indicate that selective or exclusive distribution strategies are being utilized in the channel, but more so by manufacturers than distributors.
Relationship and technique in the long-term integrative psychotherapy of schizophrenia: A single case study

Abstract It has been asserted that an integrative psychotherapy can promote recovery from schizophrenia by helping clients develop and evolve a richer personal narrative of their challenges and abilities. Yet it is unclear what techniques such a therapy might employ, and how those techniques are related to the developing therapeutic relationship. To address these questions we have conducted blind qualitative and quantitative assessments of transcripts of an integrative psychotherapy over 22 months. Analyses suggest that over time the client evolved a more coherent account of his challenges and abilities, and experienced significant psychosocial improvements. The therapeutic alliance was observed to build slowly, with minimal intervention and care on the part of the therapist not to tell the story for the client. As the relationship grew stronger, the client began rapidly developing the narrative of his life, allowing for the introduction of greater levels of confrontation to enhance further the coherence ...
Dispersion of alkyl-chain-functionalized reduced graphene oxide sheets in nonpolar solvents.

Alkyl chains were grafted onto reduced graphene oxide sheets to allow their dispersion in toluene, a common and representative nonpolar solvent. The grafting occurred on a variety of oxygen-containing functionalities already present on reduced graphene oxide, such as hydroxyl and epoxide groups. The structure and the defect density of the sheets were not significantly altered during the synthesis. When dispersed in water–toluene mixtures, phase transfer from the aqueous to the organic phase was observed upon grafting. In addition, the dry powder obtained readily disperses in common organic solvents without the assistance of any sonication treatment.
Self and other: An introduction

It is well known that the philosophy of religion has flourished in recent decades in Anglo-American philosophy where philosophers are bringing new techniques to bear on many of the traditional problems, including the rationality of religious belief, the attributes of God, religious language, the problem of evil, and religious diversity. Much of this discussion is carried on within the context of western religious belief and so-called classical or traditional theism. Although there is more diversity in Anglo-American philosophy of religion than is sometimes recognized, it nevertheless provides a body of literature with a recent history that is sufficiently coherent to enable commentators to identify the movement with some clarity. The story is somewhat different with the emerging field of recent continental philosophy of religion where many of the philosophers referred to are not generally known as philosophers of religion and where many of the approaches are based upon a critique of traditional western theories of rationality, experience and theism and an extension of more traditional boundaries of philosophical reflection on religion. The essays in this volume were invited with the hope that they might make more widely available and contribute to some of the discussions that are shaping recent continental philosophy of religion.
"We Thought It Might Encourage Participation." Using Lottery Incentives to Improve LibQUAL+[TM] Response Rates among Students.

ABSTRACT Libraries deploying the LibQUAL+™ survey can offer a lottery incentive and many do so in the hope of increasing response rates. Other libraries may be prohibited from offering one because of Institutional Review Board restrictions, as is the case at Oregon State University. We wanted to discover why libraries offer lottery incentives, what kinds of incentives, and if they believe these incentives have a positive impact on their response rates. The responding libraries hold a general belief that lottery incentives are effective, but base this on feeling rather than research. We examine what the literature says about lottery incentives and student populations.
Thick polysilicon surface-micromachined optically sensed accelerometer

ABSTRACT An accelerometer based on optical intensity modulation has been designed and fabricated using thick-polysilicon (12im) surface-micromachining technology. A layer ofpolysilicon is surface micromachined to form a grating connected tosprings, which are anchored on the silicon substrate. A layer ofmetal is evaporated on the top ofthe entire device makingthe suspended grating opaque as well as the regions on the substrate that are exposed by the grating. This leaves the areasdirectly beneath the grating shadowed from incident light. In the unperturbed state, the light that shines on the device iscompletely reflected by the metal on top ofthe entire device. When the grating moves under the influence of acceleration,the areas which are not covered by the metal are then exposed and the amount of light passing through the substrateincreases. The optical intensity variation translates to the acceleration experienced by the grating proofmass. 12pm thickpolysilicon surface micromachining was developed to improve the performance ofthe device. The film's mechanicalqualities, internal stain, stress gradient and surface roughness have been characterized. This optical accelerometer has asensitivity of 70 milli-g with 0.5-micron movement.Keywords: Optical, Accelerometer, Thick polysilicon surface micromachining, Surface micromachining, Intensitymodulation.
Bacterial Degradation of Heparin

A SOIL bacterium has been isolated in pure form by repeated transfers on a liquid medium which contained 0.1 per cent heparin, 0.1 per cent ammonium sulphate, and trace amounts of magnesium, calcium, manganese, ferrous iron and molybdate in 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH. 7.4) and on silica gel plates with a similar medium evaporated on the surface. The organism is an aerobic, Gram-negative, non-spore forming, very small, motile rod which had been identified as a Flavobacterium. It is able to use heparin as its sole source of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur, although its growth is enhanced by the addition of small amounts of glucose and ammonium sulphate. Optimum growth occurs at pH 6.5 and 24°; the bacterium will not grow at 37° and its growth is inhibited by carbon dioxide and agar (when grown on heparin). When grown on heparin silica gel plates the bacteria form clear, lemon-yellow, round, microscopic colonies ; on trypticase–phytone agar plates the colonies are larger and dark orange-yellow in colour.
Lateral silicon photodiodes with extremely low dark current for visible and infra-red applications

We present two lateral p-i-n photodiodes for operation in the 400–900nm wavelength range. The design is compatible with typical 180nm CMOS process and yields high responsivity and low dark current independent of the geometry.
Organellar clusters formed by mitochondrial-rough endoplasmic reticulum associations: An ordered arrangement of mitochondria in hepatocytes

Abstract Our objective was to determine if mitochondrialrough endoplasmic reticulum (mt-RER) associations provide for an ordered arrangement of mitochondria in the cell. If such an ordered arrangement exists, it might be manifested by grouping of mitochondria according to size and biochemical properties. Liver homogenate was subjected to rate zonal centrifugation for fractionating mitochondrial clusters. These clusters were then examined for morphological and biochemical characteristics. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that (1) mitochondria were held together in clusters by rough endoplasmic reticulum, (2) clusters consisted of mitochondria of comparable size, and (3) a 45-fold difference in average mitochondrial volume existed between the organelles of the fastest and slowest sedimenting clusters. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) affirmed that all of the organellar clusters examined were mitochondria associated with rough endoplasmic reticulum. Cytochrome oxidase and mitochondrial DNA were found to be proportional to mitochondrial volume, indicating that these components were synthesized in proportion to increases in volume. Conversely, succinic dehydrogenase and ornithine carbamoyl transferase were increased disproportionately (2.9-fold and six-fold, respectively) with increase in mitochondrial volume. It is evident from this biochemical heterogeneity that clusters composed of larger mitochondria differ functionally from clusters of smaller mitochondria. The size-ordered arrangement suggests that this organization is in some way related to the biogenesis of hepatocyte mitochondria. It is also conjectured that the biochemical heterogeneity is a consequence of addition of selected proteins (e.g., succinic dehydrogenase and carbamoyl transferase) to mitochondria in a developmental process as they mature into larger organelles.
Balancing Proliferation with Igκ Recombination during B-lymphopoiesis.

The essential events of B-cell development are the stochastic and sequential rearrangement of immunoglobulin heavy (Igμ) and then light chain (Igκ followed by Igλ) loci. The counterpoint to recombination is proliferation, which both maintains populations of pro-B cells undergoing Igμ recombination and expands the pool of pre-B cells expressing the Igμ protein available for subsequent Igκ recombination. Proliferation and recombination must be segregated into distinct and mutually exclusive developmental stages. Failure to do so risks aberrant gene translocation and leukemic transformation. Recent studies have demonstrated that proliferation and recombination are each affected by different and antagonistic receptors. The IL-7 receptor drives proliferation while the pre-B cell antigen receptor, which contains Igμ and surrogate light chain, enhances Igκ accessibility and recombination. Remarkably, the principal downstream proliferative effectors of the IL-7R, STAT5 and cyclin D3, directly repress Igκ accessibility through very divergent yet complementary mechanisms. Conversely, the pre-BCR represses cyclin D3 leading to cell cycle exit and enhanced Igκ accessibility. These studies reveal how cell fate decisions can be directed and reinforced at each developmental transition by single receptors. Furthermore, they identify novel mechanisms of Igκ repression that have implications for gene regulation in general.
Hospital environment and invasive aspergillosis in patients with hematologic malignancy.

Background To determine whether there is a correlation between sources of Aspergillus spores in a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA)-filtered environment and nosocomial invasive aspergillosis (IA), we performed a detailed environmental assessment and case review. Methods From April to October 2004, 626 bioaerosol samples, 1,257 surface samples, and 607 water samples were obtained from 74 HEPA-filtered air hospital rooms occupied by 458 patients with hematologic malignancies. Samples were collected prospectively from the room before and after cleaning within 1 hour of patient admission or discharge. Aspergillus spp was isolated from 21 surface samples and 46 bioaerosol samples. Interestingly, Aspergillus spp was not isolated from any water samples. Results Aspergillus spp was isolated from 21 surface samples and 46 bioaerosol samples. Interestingly, Aspergillus spp were not isolated from any water samples. The majority (90%) of the positive bioaerosol samples had ≤ 10 colony-forming units of Aspergillus /m3 of air. Only 2 patients developed nosocomial IA. No correlations were found between Aspergillus species isolated from the hospital rooms and those causing IA. Conclusion The risk of hematologic malignancy patients acquiring nosocomial aspergillosis from water or HEPA-filtered air is very low.
Student attrition, intentions, and confidence: Interaction effects in a path model

A causal model of student attrition developed by the author (Bean, 1981) was reduced to 10 independent variables. Background variables were excluded from the analysis. The sample was partitioned into high- and low-confidence men and women based on interaction effects. The model was estimated using a sample of 1,574 college freshmen. TheR 2 for dropout ranged from .42 to .50. Based on the effects coefficients, the overall ranking of the independent variables in influencing dropout in descending order of importance was as follows: intent to leave; grades; opportunity to transfer; practical value; certainty of choice; loyalty; family approval; courses; student goals; and major and job certainty.
In Defense of an Egalitarian Interpretation of 1 Cor 14:34-36 A Reply to Murphy-O'Connor's Critique

In "Interpolations in 1 Cor" (CBQ 48:81-94) Murphy-O'Connor rejected the egalitarian interpretation of 1 Cor 14:33b-36 argued by Odell-Scott in "Let the Women Speak In Church" (BTB 13:3) and re-ass...
Re-association of hemocyanins from subunit mixtures.

Dissociation and reassociation reactions of hemocyanin mixtures analyzed by electron microscopy, noting original molecular structures
Heroic Africans: Legendary Leaders, Iconic Sculptures

Over the centuries, artists across sub-Saharan Africa have memorialized eminent figures in their societies using an astonishingly diverse repertoire of naturalistic and abstract sculptural idioms. Adopting complex aesthetic fromulations, they idealized their subjects but also added specific details-such as emblems of rank, scarification patterns, and elaborate coiffures-in order to evoke the individuals represented. Imbued with the essence of their formidable subjects, these works played an essential role in reifying ties with important ancestors at critical moments of transition. Often their transfer from one generation to the next was a prerequisite for conferring legitimacy upon the leaders who followed. The arrival of Europeans as traders, then as colonizers, led to the dislocation of many of these sculptures from their original sites, as well as from the contexts in which they were conceived; thus, today, they are seen primarily as timeless representations of generic archetypes. Heroic Africans reexamines the sculptures in terms of the individuals who inspired them and the cultural values that informed them, providing insight into the hidden meaning and inspiration behind these great artistic achievements. Author Alisa LaGamma considers the landmark sculptural traditions of the kingdoms of Ife and Benin, both in Nigeria; Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire's Akan chiefdoms; the Bangwa and Kom chiefdoms of the Cameroon Grassfields; the Chokwe cheifdoms of Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (D.R.C.); and the D.R.C's Luluwa, Kuba, and Hemba chiefdoms. More than 140 masterpieces created between the 12th and the early 20th century-complemented by maps, drawings, and excavation and ceremonial photographs-reveal the religious and aesthetic conventions that defined distinct regional genres.
Attention-related unit activity in the frontal association cortex during a go/no-go visual discrimination task.

Abstract Unit activity related to a go/no-go visual discrimination task was studied in four rhesus monkeys. We recorded 272 task-related cells from frontal cortex in a region extending from the midprincipal sulcus to the central sulcus, and medially to the cingulate sulcus. Units located in anterior regions (dorsolateral prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortex) were typically related to both go and no-go trials (designated type II units) and showed similar (“symmetrical”) activity in both kinds of trials; some of them also showed prestimulus (“anticipatory”) activity. Such units were present but less common in posterior regions (postarcuate and precentral and posterior cingulate cortex). Units in these posterior regions were active predominantly in go trials (designated type I units). Also found posteriorly were “asymmetrical” type II cells whose activity was greater in go trials and occurred later in the trial, around the behavioral response. The anterior symmetrical and anticipatory type II units in the frontal association cortex were similar to such units described earlier in the brain stem reticular formation and may have similar functions in supporting focused and preparatory attention. On the other hand, asymmetrical type II units in the posterior frontal regions may have a role in the initiation of visually guided motor behavior.
Group Summary: Simulations I

The work in the Simulations-I group consisted of an intensive interaction in the area of linear transient growth of disturbances, a subject which was in its early stages of study at the 1991 NASA/ICASE Transition and Turbulence Workshop, and exploratory efforts aimed at understanding new phenomena and developing new methods. Six papers stemming from these efforts appear here.
Optical design for laser Doppler angular encoder with sub-nrad sensitivity.

A novel laser angular encoder system has been developed based on the principles of radar, the Doppler effect, optical heterodyning, and self aligning multiple reflection optics. Using this novel three dimensional multiple reflection optical path, a 10 to 20 times better resolution has been reached compared to commercially available laser Doppler displacement meters or laser interferometer systems. With the new angular encoder, sub-nanoradian resolution has been attained in the 8 degree measuring range in a compact setup about 60 mm (H) x 150 mm (W) x 370 mm (L) in size for high energy resolution applications at the Advanced Photon Source undulator beamline 3-ID.
The Current Reality of National Book Publishing Output and Its Effect on Collection Assessment

Abstract The WLN Conspectus determines a library's acquisition commitment (growth rate) by considering what percentage of book publishing output it acquired. In 2000, the Bowker Annual changed its source of book publishing from the American Book Publishing Record to Books in Printwith an attendant increase in recorded output. That increase has serious implications for libraries using the WLN formula to determine collecting levels. The recent Art assessment at Jacksonville State University demonstrates how Bowker's change in book title output affects the library's acquisition commitment level, and what adjustments the library made to maintain consistency and continuity.
Synthesis of some symmetrical aldehyde glycol monoether acetals

Forty-two acetals of seven aldehydes and the mono-methyl, ethyl and n-butyl ethers of ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol were prepared, and their physical constants determined. An in vitro test was used to determine their hydrolysis in a slightly acidic medium, considered to be similar to the natural acidity of the human skin. It was shown that regeneration of the parent aldehydes proceeded with sufficient rapidity to warrant in vivo tests of these acetals in cosmetic formulas.
PIPEs Around the World

Public investment in private equity (PIPE) is a financing form growing in popularity in the U.S., recently surpassing seasoned equity offerings in number and value. Research to date is highly focused on the U.S., with little attention paid to international markets. We use newly available data to examine PIPE deals in Hong Kong, Australia, Canada, and the U.K. We document similarities and differences relative to the U.S. market. PIPE firms tend to be small, high-growth firms with poor accounting and stock performance prior to PIPE issuance. However, these stylized facts do not hold uniformly across the exchanges we study. We also document a lack of significant market reaction to the announcement of PIPE deals on these exchanges.
Learning to Think Politically: Toward More Complete Disciplinary Knowledge in Civics and Government Courses

Secondary civics and government courses are often framed as a content area in which students learn about processes of government and ways of participating in a democratic society, as opposed to a discipline in which students use specific tools and ways of thinking that mimic those used by professionals within that discipline. In this article, we call for an increased emphasis on disciplinary knowledge in civics and government courses, specifically knowledge that utilizes the tools and methodologies of political scientists. Through a study of an exemplary civics teacher during the 2012 Presidential Election, we illustrate the benefits of a disciplinary approach to civics instruction. Our findings suggest that such an approach allows students to better understand tools of social inquiry and provides them with the skills to think critically about politics and political behavior.