cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Behavioral changes in mice following lead administration during several stages of development

How lead ingestion during different developmental periods influences activity of mice was investigated. Binghamton Heterogenous Stock (HET) mice were assigned to one of four groups defined by a 2 X 2 factorial in which the only available drinking fluid was either lead (L) or water (C) from the time of mating to birth or from birth to the end of the experiment. Thus, a control group (CC) received water throughout, whereas the other three groups received a 0.5% lead acetate solution at the time they were mated (LC) or when pups were discovered (group CL), or throughout the experiment (group LL). The effects of these exposure regimes on activity were assessed in an open field or a running wheel when the mice were 25 days of age and then again when they were 55 days old. Aspects of agonistic behavior were also examined in these animals. Mice that received lead only following birth (CL group) appeared most affected in the open field and in running wheels. But, both the direction and degree of this effect were influenced by the specific test situation and measures as well as by the age of the mouse when tested. For example, the CL group crossed the most squares in the open field at both ages. However, the CL group was less active during their first day in the running wheels when 25 days old, but not when 55 days old. In general, activity of the LC group was least affected by administration of lead, but the effects of continued exposure to this toxic substance (LL group) were not simply additive. In contrast to measures of activity, agonistic testing at 60 days of age showed that all groups that had been or were being exposed to lead (CL, LC, LL) displayed a shorter latency to fight when compared to the control group (CC).
Human respiratory syncytial virus nucleoprotein and inclusion bodies antagonize the innate immune response mediated by MDA5 and MAVS

Currently, the spatial distribution of human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) proteins and RNAs in infected cells is still under investigation, with many unanswered questions regarding the interaction of virus-induced structures and the innate immune system. Very few studies of hRSV have used subcellular imaging as a means to explore the changes in localization of retinoic-acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptors or the mitochondrial antiviral signaling (MAVS) protein, in response to the infection and formation of viral structures. In this investigation, we found that both RIG-I and melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) colocalized with viral genomic RNA and the nucleoprotein (N) as early as 6 h postinfection (hpi). By 12 hpi, MDA5 and MAVS were observed within large viral inclusion bodies (IB). We used a proximity ligation assay (PLA) and determined that the N protein was in close proximity to MDA5 and MAVS in IBs throughout the course of the infection. Similar results were found with the transient coexpression of N and the phosphoprotein (P). Additionally, we demonstrated that the localization of MDA5 and MAVS in IBs inhibited the expression of interferon β mRNA 27-fold following Newcastle disease virus infection. From these data, we concluded that the N likely interacts with MDA5, is in close proximity to MAVS, and localizes these molecules within IBs in order to attenuate the interferon response. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a specific function for hRSV IBs and of the hRSV N protein as a modulator of the innate immune response.
Effect of methylglyoxal bisguanylhydrazone on polyamine biosynthesis, growth, and differentiation of cultured keratinocytes

The putrescine, spermidine, and spermine content of subcultured human newborn foreskin keratinocytes was determined during growth and early plateau phase and found to be highest during growth. Exposure of the cells to methylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) during growth phase caused a dose-dependent fall in intracellular spermidine and spermine levels and an increase in putrescine levels at higher concentrations. These effects reflect inhibition of S-adenosyl methionine decarboxylase by the drug. At 8×10-6 M the drug reduced incorporation of leucine into protein, lowered or stopped the accumulation of DNA per dish, inhibited mitotic activity, and increased the histidine/leucine incorporation into protein. The last effect is regarded as induction of keratinization. All these effects were reversible if the use of the drug was discontinued after 3 days. Inhibition of the enzymes of polyamine biosynthesis may have value in psoriasis therapy.
Scapegoating the secular clergy: the hermeneutic style as a form of monastic self-definition

This article examines Byrhtferth of Ramsey's derogatory comments about the secular clerics in the Enchiridion and suggests that they should not be read at face value as accurate representations of real members of his monastic classroom, but instead should be read as epideictic literature, the literature of praise and blame. Through these portraits of lazy and incompetent secular clerics, Benedictine monks inscribe their own identity by means of a negative example. Particularly important to the monks' self-definition is the skilful deployment of the so-called hermeneutic style, which encodes the values of the Benedictine Reform, especially the reform's emphasis on education.
High-efficiency μc-Si/c-Si heterojunction solar cells

Abstract P-type microcrystalline silicon (μc-Si (p)) on n-type crystalline silicon (c-Si(n)) heterojunction solar cells is investigated. Thin boron-doped μc-Si layers are deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition on CZ-Si and the V oc of μc-Si/c-Si heterojunction solar cells is higher than that produced by a conventional thermal diffusion process. Under the appropriate conditions, the structure of thin μc-Si films on (1 0 0), (1 1 0), and (1 1 1) CZ-Si is ordered, so high V oc of 0.579 V is achieved for 2×2 cm 2 μc-Si/multi-crystalline silicon (mc-Si) solar cells. The epitaxial-like growth is important in the fabrication of high-efficiency μc-Si/mc-Si heterojunction solar cells.
The Gendered Ideal Worker Narrative: Professional Women’s and Men’s Work Experiences in the New Economy at a Mexican Company

Workplaces have transformed over the past decades in response to global forces. This case study of a Mexican-owned multinational corporation compares employee perceptions of a new work culture required to confront these demands. Employees are expected to work long hours and to produce results, obtain the right skills and knowledge, and exhibit proactivity. Drawing on extensive qualitative data, this article theorizes what the expectations mean for women and men employees. The competitive culture reinforces inequality because expectations are grounded in the gendered “ideal worker” narrative. However, tensions ensue for the company that is partly characterized by paternalism yet requires a competitive work culture. The study uncovers a hybrid organizational logic with gendered assumptions undergirding a hidden inequality as professional women navigate the emergence of the glass ceiling in the global south.
Third‐space scholars: bridging the marketing academy and emerging markets

Purpose – This paper seeks to begin a meaningful dialogue on the concept of third space, or “in‐between space”, within the marketing discipline. In the context of scholarly research, third space exists between the academy and places of research, and applies to research agendas involving businesses and consumers in emerging and/or subsistence markets, where study findings often carry significant implications for both theory development and social action. The paper therefore aims to facilitate discussion of defining third space in the context of marketing and to explore its implications for scholars and the academy as a whole.Design/methodology/approach – By reviewing literature from diverse disciplines, the paper explores how occupying a third space may not always be momentary or short‐lived, as it is most often characterized. Instead, marketing scholars with enduring obligations both to the social action of their work in emerging markets and to the theoretical contributions of their work may enact a third...
Perceived aversiveness of recommended solution and locus of control as determinants of response to danger

Abstract As determined by their scores on Rotter's Locus of Control scale (Psychological Monographs, 1966 , 80 (1, Whole No. 609)), internal and external subjects were exposed either to a high-, low-, or no-fear message on the dangers of exposure to a sunlamp. It was recommended to half the subjects in each condition that they apply a cream which was described as producing minimal skin irritation (low aversiveness), while half the subjects received recommendations to apply a cream described as producing considerable skin irritation (high aversiveness). It was predicted that (a) a high-fear message would be more effective than a low-fear message in getting subjects to use the cream, especially when the recommended behavior was perceived as low in aversivensss; and (b) a high-fear message would be more effective than a low fear message for subjects classified as internals. The second prediction was confirmed, and the first was tentatively supported. Results were interpreted in terms of the perceptual processes which may mediate the relationship between fear and action. The findings did not support the fear-drive model.
A comparison of “fast” capacity planning methodologies in application to a health care facility

Abstract This paper compares the use of four “fast” capacity planning techniques to estimate requirements in a critical health care facility, a surgical intensive care unit (SICU). Each of the techniques is described, models applicable to the SICU facility are developed and indices which estimate performance are calculated. The crucial issue addressed is estimation of the relative level of service that a facility design will afford patients. Results indicate relative utility of the techniques in facility planning.
Dilemmaones A-C, unusual indole alkaloids from a mixed collection of South African sponges

Three indole alkaloids, dilemmaones A-C (1-3), were isolated from a mixture of sponges that was collected near Cape Town, South Africa. The structures of dilemmaones A-C (1-3) were elucidated by interpretation of spectroscopic data. The dilemma caused by faulty differentiation of similar specimens in the field is discussed in detail.
A Varactor-Based, Inductively Coupled Wireless pH Sensor

An inductively coupled, wireless sensor was fabricated for remote measurement of pH. The sensor consisted of a planar spiral inductor connected to a surface mount varactor, which was a voltage controlled capacitor, forming an inductive-capacitive (LC) resonant circuit. The pH electrodes, made of a thick-film antimony/antimony oxide sensing electrode and a thick-film silver/silver chloride reference electrode, were connected in parallel to the varactor. A voltage change across the electrodes due to the pH variation in the test medium would change the capacitance of the varactor, shifting the resonant frequency of the LC circuit. By inductively coupling the spiral inductor with a detection coil, the resonant frequency of the LC circuit was remotely monitored, allowing measurement of the pH. The advantage of the described pH sensor is its wireless and passive nature, which allows for long-term pH monitoring in inaccessible area. The sensor will be useful for remote monitoring of pH during industrial or food processes. When miniaturized, the sensors can also be used for biomedical applications such as remote tracking of gastric or esophageal pH on patients suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Understanding Students’ Attitudes About Group Work: What Does This Suggest for Instructors of Business?

A survey was administered to college students to gain insight into their attitudes about classroom group work. Students responded that group work is generally a positive experience; however, they do not necessarily prefer it to individual assignments. Students’ responses also indicated concerns about instructors’ motivations for using group work, management of the process (or lack thereof) by instructors, free riding by teammates, and being accountable for the work of others. When comparing business and nonbusiness majors, some interesting, statistically significant differences are found. For example, business majors are more willing to be held accountable for the work of others and are more willing to terminate group members.
Spectroscopy of the extreme ultraviolet dayglow at 6.5Å resolution: Atomic and ionic emissions between 530 and 1240Å

EUV spectra (530-1500A) of the day airglow in up, down and horizontal aspect orientations have been obtained with 6.5A resolution and a limiting sensitivity of 5R from a rocket experiment. Below 834A the spectrum is rich in previously unobserved OII transitions connecting with 4S(0), 2D(0), and 2P(0) states. Recent broad-band photometric observations of geocoronal HeI 584A emission in terms of the newly observed OII emissions are shown. The OI 989A and OI 1304A emissions exhibit similar dependence on altitude and viewing geometry with the OI 989A brightness 1/15 that of OI 1340. Emission at 1026A is identified as geocoronal HI Lyman beta rather than OI multiplet emission and observed intensities agree well with model estimates. An unexpectedly high NI 1200/NI 1134A brightness ratio is evidence of a significant contribution from photodissociative excitation of N2 to the NI 1200A source function.
Leveraging gait dynamics to improve efficiency and performance of powered hip exoskeletons

This paper presents a new mechanical design for efficient exoskeleton actuation to power the sagittal plane motion in the human hip. The device uses a DC motor to drive a Scotch-Yoke mechanism and series elasticity to take advantage of the cyclic nature of human gait and to reduce power and control requirements of the exoskeleton. The mechanism creates a transmission that varies between 4:1 and infinity and does not require the motor to reverse direction when the hip joint reverses direction. This paper provides a detailed analysis of how the dynamic nature of human walking can be leveraged with this hip exoskeleton design.
Electrical silencing of PDF neurons advances the phase of non-PDF clock neurons in Drosophila.

Drosophila clock neurons exhibit self-sustaining cellular oscillations that rely in part on rhythmic transcriptional feedback loops. We have previously determined that electrical silencing of the p...
Topobo: a constructive assembly system with kinetic memory

We introduce Topobo, a 3D constructive assembly system embedded with kinetic memory, the ability to record and playback physical motion. Unique among modeling systems is Topobo's coincident physical input and output behaviors. By snapping together a combination of Passive (static) and Active (motorized) components, people can quickly assemble dynamic biomorphic forms like animals and skeletons with Topobo,animate those forms by pushing, pulling, and twisting them, and observe the system repeatedly play back those motions. For example, a dog can be constructed and then taught to gesture and walk by twisting its body and legs. The dog will then repeat those movements and walk repeatedly.Our evaluation of Topobo in classrooms with children ages 5-13 suggests that children develop affective relationships with Topobo creations and that their experimentation with Topobo allows them to learn about movement and animal locomotion through comparisons of their creations to their own bodies. Eighth grade science students' abilities to quickly develop various types of walking robots suggests that a tangible interface can support understanding how balance, leverage and gravity affect moving structures because the interface itself responds to the forces of nature that constrain such systems.
Lessons learned from cigarette tax harmonisation in the European Union

The European Union (EU) can serve as an example of a successful regional cigarette tax harmonisation and integration regime. This level of integration was motivated by an effort to ensure the proper functioning of the EU internal market, which required a reduction in inter-country variation in tobacco product prices. Yet, despite the effort to harmonise, the variation in cigarette taxes and prices between the EU member states is greater than, for example, that across states in the USA. The USA is a large internal market, but has little tobacco tax harmonisation and integration. The coefficient of variation (CV) for cigarette prices in the USA is 0.20 versus 0.44 in the EU, in 2010.1 This is likely due to US states being much more homogenous than the EU member states, particularly with respect to incomes. These differences may drive the price strategies of the tobacco industry, which have implications for the affordability of tobacco products. EU directives on cigarette taxation have two important features: 1. a minimum excise tax burden (percentage share of tax in price) 2. an excise tax floor, measured in Euros per 1000 cigarettes sold. These two components create different binding constraints for two groups of countries: the EU-15 (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the UK) and the EU-12 (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia). EU-15 countries are all developed, high-income countries, many of which were founding members of the EU. Generally speaking, the countries in this group have higher per capita incomes (which are growing at a slower …
Genome-wide methylation and expression profiling identifies promoter characteristics affecting demethylation-induced gene up-regulation in melanoma

Background Abberant DNA methylation at CpG dinucleotides represents a common mechanism of transcriptional silencing in cancer. Since CpG methylation is a reversible event, tumor supressor genes that have undergone silencing through this mechanism represent promising targets for epigenetically active anti-cancer therapy. The cytosine analog 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (decitabine) induces genomic hypomethylation by inhibiting DNA methyltransferase, and is an example of an epigenetic agent that is thought to act by up-regulating silenced genes.
Comparative Planning Cultures, Edited by Bishwapriya Sanyal

Bishwapriya Sanyal (Ed.), Comparative Planning Cultures (New York and London: Routledge).This is an edited book about the culture of planning practice across ten countries that differ in size, leve...
The radiation environment near the lunar surface: CRaTER observations and Geant4 simulations

[1] At the start of the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter mission in 2009, its Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation instrument measured the radiation environment near the Moon during the recent deep solar minimum, when galactic cosmic rays (GCRs) were at the highest level observed during the space age. We present observations that show the combined effects of GCR primaries, secondary particles (“albedo”) created by the interaction of GCRs with the lunar surface, and the interactions of these particles in the shielding material overlying the silicon solid-state detectors of the Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation. We use Geant4 to model the energy and angular distribution of the albedo particles, and to model the response of the sensor to the various particle species reaching the 50 kilometer altitude of the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. Using simulations to gain insight into the observations, we are able to present preliminary energy-deposit spectra for evaluation of the radiation environment's effects on other sensitive materials, whether biological or electronic, that would be exposed to a similar near-lunar environment.
Neuroanatomical distribution of vasotocin and mesotocin in two urodele amphibians (Plethodon shermani and Taricha granulosa) based on in situ hybridization histochemistry

Previous research suggests that considerable species-specific variation exists in the neuroanatomical distributions of arginine vasotocin (AVT) and mesotocin (MST), non-mammalian homologues of vasopressin and oxytocin. An earlier study in rough-skinned newts (Taricha granulosa) indicated that the neuroanatomical distribution of cells labeled for AVT-immunoreactivity (ir) was greater in this urodele amphibian than in any other species. It was unknown whether the widespread distribution of AVT-ir is unique to T. granulosa or a feature common among salamanders. Using in situ hybridization (ISH) histochemistry and gene-specific riboprobes, the current study labeled AVT and MST mRNA in T. granulosa and the red-legged salamander (Plethodon shermani). In T. granulosa, AVT ISH-labeled cells were found to be widespread and localized in brain areas including the dorsal and medial pallium, lateral and medial septum, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, amygdala, preoptic area, ventral hypothalamus, nucleus isthmus, tectum mesencephali, inferior colliculus, and hindbrain. In P. shermani, the distribution of AVT ISH-labeled neurons matched that of T. granulosa, except in the lateral septum, ventral hypothalamus, and inferior colliculus, but did however include labeled cell bodies in the lateral pallium. The distribution of MST ISH-labeled cells was more restricted than AVT ISH labeling and was limited to regions of the preoptic area and ventral thalamus, which is consistent with the limited distribution of MST/OXY in other vertebrates. These findings support the conclusion that urodele amphibians possess a well-developed vasotocin system, perhaps more extensive than other vertebrate taxa.
Vortex-free flight corridors for aircraft executing compressed landing operations

A factor that limits airport arrival and departure rates is the need to wait between operations for the wake vortices of preceding aircraft to decay to a safe level. As airport traffic demand increases, creative methods will be needed to overcome the limitations caused by the hazard posed by vortex wakes so that airport capacities can be increased. The problem addressed here is the design of vortex-free trajectories for aircraft as they fly from their cruise altitudes down to their final approach paths and to a landing. The guidelines presented recommend that the flight path of each aircraft in a group executing nearly-simultaneous landings be spaced far enough apart laterally along organized flight paths so that the vortex wakes of preceding aircraft will not intrude into the airspace to be used by following aircraft. An example is presented as to how a combination of straight lines and circular arcs is able to provide each aircraft in a group with a vortex-free trajectory so that all are able to safely form the pattern needed for nearly simultaneous landings on a set of closely-spaced parallel runways. Although the guidelines me described for aircraft on approach, they are also applicable to departure, and to en route operations.
Molecular Phylogeny and Biogeography of the Native Rodents of Madagascar (Muridae: Nesomyinae): A Test of the Single‐Origin Hypothesis

Complete nucleotide sequences from the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (1143 bp) were used to investigate the phylogenetic relationships among the native rodents of Madagascar. Specifically, this study examines whether the nine genera of nesomyines form a monophyletic group relative to other Old World murids. All nine of the nesomyine genera, including multiple individuals from 15 of the 21 described species, were included in the analysis, and their monophyly was assessed relative to the murid subfamilies Mystromyinae, Petromyscinae, Dendromurinae, Cricetomyinae, Murinae, Rhizomyinae, and Calomyscinae. Phylogenetic analysis of the resulting 95 taxa and 540 characters resulted in 502 equally parsimonious cladograms. The strict consensus tree weakly refutes the monophyly of Nesomyinae and suggests that the Malagasy rodents form a clade with dendromurines (as represented by Steatomys) and the African rhizomyine Tachyoryctes. The cladogram strongly refutes the association of the South African genus Mystromys with the Malagasy genera and suggests that Petromyscus and Mystromys form a monophyletic group. We provide the first explicitly phylogenetic scenario for the biogeographic history of nesomyine rodents. Our phylogenetic hypothesis indicates: (1) rodents invaded Madagascar only once, (2) they came from Asia not from Africa as is commonly assumed, and (3) there was a secondary invasion of rodents from Madagascar into Africa.
Turkey in the European Union: Implications for Agriculture, Food and Structural Policy

Introduction - A Oskam and A Burrell, Wageningen University, Netherlands Turkey's Economy and Regional Income Distribution - A Oskam, N Longworth and A Yildez The Institutional Framework of Turkey and Turkish Agriculture - T Temel Agricultural Production, Prices and Trade - N Longworth Turkey's Rural Population and Agricultural Workforce - A Burrell Agricultural and Food Industry Structure - S van Berkum Overview of Agricultural, Food, Rural and Structural Policies - A Oskam Turkey's Foreign Trade Position, A Burrell Environment and Agriculture - I-M Vilchez Animal and Plant Health in Turkey, A Burrell Consequences for the EU-27 of Enlargement to Turkey - A Oskam, N Longworth and I M Vilchez Expected Consequences for Turkey of EU Entry in 2015 - T Tugrul Opportunities, Threats and Challenges - A Burrell.
Investigation of removal of N-nitrosamines and their precursors in water treatments using activated carbon nanoparticles

N-nitrosamines have been detected in various water types. A strategy for removal of this group of compounds should be taken to reduce the health risks for humans. In this study, a fast and sensitive LC-MS/MS method was developed for quantitative analysis of nine N-nitrosamines and four precursors in a single sample. The Method Detection Limits (MDLs) in natural water ranged from 0.05 μg/L to 5 μg/L without using SPE pre-concentration. Three different types of activated carbon nanoparticles (NPs) (bamboo, charcoal and coconut shell as raw materials) were used to carry out removal experiments in two different pHs (pH 6.6 and 8.6). The results indicated that coconut shell-based activated carbon NPs had higher removal efficiency than the other two with a typical dosage of activated carbon NPs, at a typical contact time of 4 hours. No significant differences in removal efficiency between the two selected pH values were observed.
Discussion of “Why Don’t Issuers Get Upset About Leaving Money on the Table in IPOs?”

In this article, Loughran and Ritter (2001; hereafter LR) provide an interesting new theory and empirical analysis. In this discussion I would like to elaborate on their analysis in several ways. First, in Section 1 1 review Microsoft's IPO process, as documented in a 1986 Fortune article, and related this to the LR model and evidence. In Section 2 I briefly discuss the LR model and its implications, and the empirical findings presented in LR that support the model. In Section 3 I present some additional empirical evidence suggesting that the LR prospect-theory model can't fully explain the IPO puzzles. Section 4 proposes an alternative explanation for these data: namely that the data are consistent with a bargaining game in which the issuers', underwriters', and investors' bargaining power changes with business and industry cycles. Section 5 concludes.
American Eel Supply to an Estuary and Its Tributaries: Spatial Variation in Barnegat Bay, New Jersey

Abstract We evaluated the spatial variation in the supply of Anguilla rostrata (American Eel) glass eels and elvers to a Mid-Atlantic Bight estuary (Barnegat Bay, NJ) by sampling over two years at multiple inlets, thoroughfares to adjacent estuaries and tributaries. Both inlets and all three thoroughfares provided sources of glass eels to Barnegat Bay. However, the level of supply to individual tributaries was markedly different, although size and pigmentation stage was consistent. The difference between tributaries might reflect distance from inlet supply and local human disturbance (a large lagoon-front housing development in one tributary). These pronounced differences imply that glass eel and elver supply to tributaries should be taken into consideration before mitigation or restoration is attempted in response to the decline of this species in North America.
Sociology and Nuclear Weapons: A View from Outside

Calling attention to the relatively few contributions made by sociologists to the study of nuclear issues, a political scientist suggests a number of areas and questions that sociology may be particularly well equipped to deal with. The study is divided into a canvas of questions that come from the first 45 years of the nuclear age, and then assesses the questions that may emerge in an evolving “post-Cold War” era.
Wound healing in forefoot amputations: The predictive value of toe pressure

A retrospective study of 136 men undergoing forefoot amputation was done to test the hypothesis that preoperative toe pressure (TP) could predict the likelihood of wound healing. Demographic data included age, smoking history, diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and coronary artery disease. Clinical data included infection, preoperative arterial Doppler data, TP, wound disposition, concomitant revascularization (REV), and healing outcome. Among diabetics, no primary amputation healed with a preoperative TP 68 mm Hg or an increase in TP > or = 30 mm Hg after bypass. Nondiabetic patients exhibited no threshold TP values. Univariate analysis revealed that DM and REV were significantly different in the healed (N = 83) vs. nonhealed (N = 53) populations (p = 0.027 and 0.034). In healed patients mean TP (71.8 +/- 3.5 mm Hg SEM) was significantly higher than in nonhealed patients (45.1 +/- 4.3 mm Hg SEM, p = 0.000). Logistic regression analysis identified age > 60 years (p = 0.03), DM (p = 0.003), preoperative TP (p < 0.001), and REV (p < 0.001) as significant independent predictors of forefoot amputation healing. Healing probability was calculated and plotted vs. TP for subpopulations based on age, DM, and REV status for both primary forefoot amputation and amputation concomitant with bypass. In this study population, therefore, preoperative TP appeared to be a useful clinical tool for predicting the healing potential of both primary forefoot amputations and amputations plus concomitant bypass for any given patient.
Is there an antinociceptive role for peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor?

COMMENTARY ON: Tender GC, Li Y-Y, Cui J-G. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor redistribution in the dorsal root ganglia correlates with neuropathic pain inhibition after resiniferatoxin treatment. Spine J 2010:10:715–20 ( in this issue ).
Fentanyl and propofol uptake by the lung : effect of time between injections

The effect of time between the administrations of fentanyl and propofol on the first pass uptake of propofol in the cat lung was studied using double indicator dilution technique. The pulmonary first pass uptake of propofol (mean +/- s.e. mean) was 58 +/- 6% in six cats (control group) that had received no fentanyl prior to propofol (1 mg/kg) administration. The uptake was significantly reduced to 32 +/- 3% in animals pretreated with fentanyl (1 microgram/kg) 30 seconds before propofol administration (n = 6). However, when fentanyl was administered 3 minutes (n = 6) or 10 minutes (n = 6) prior to propofol, the pulmonary uptake of propofol (45 +/- 5%, 50 +/- 7% respectively) was not significantly reduced. The results demonstrate that the ability of fentanyl to inhibit pulmonary removal of propofol depends on its time of administration prior to propofol. These data may have clinical implication with respect to timing of the preinduction opiate injection.
Quantum Confinement in Single Layer a-Si:H Films

Quantum confinement effects in the transmission spectrum of thin amorphous silicon, a-Si:H, films require a coherence length comparable to the film thickness, as well as good film homogeneity. After a careful investigation, the authors conclude that there is no quantum confinement in single layer a-Si:H films at room temperature.
CEO Succession Planning: Who’s Behind Door Number One?

One of the most important decisions that a board of directors must make is the selection of the CEO of the company. And yet survey data indicates that many boards are not prepared for this process.In recent years, shareholder groups have pressured boards to increase transparency about their succession plans. While the SEC initially allowed companies to exclude from the proxy shareholder proposals that would require more disclosure, the agency has since reversed its position.What type of disclosure can provide shareholders with insight into succession planning? Related teaching case ($): Multimillionaire Matchmaker: An Inside Look at CEO Succession Planning (SSRN), available at: http://ssrn.com/abstract=1593231.Topics, Issues and Controversies in Corporate Governance and Leadership: The Closer Look series is a collection of short case studies through which we explore topics, issues, and controversies in corporate governance. In each study, we take a targeted look at a specific issue that is relevant to the current debate on governance and explain why it is so important. Larcker and Tayan are co-authors of the book Corporate Governance Matters, and A Real Look at Real World Corporate Governance.
Hierarchical patterns of paternity within crowns of Albizia julibrissin (Fabaceae)

The floral architecture and phenology of the tree species Albizia julibrissin (Fabaceae) offer the potential for flowers within inflorescences to share common pollen donors. Patterns of paternity within individual tree crowns may differ among isolated individuals and those in populations due to differences in pollinator foraging behavior. To determine how genetic diversity is partitioned within individual seed pools and whether these patterns differ among isolated and population trees, we obtained all fruits from three inflorescences from four clusters from three isolated trees and from three population trees in Athens, Georgia. We assayed 14 polymorphic allozymes to genotype all progeny within singly sired fruits to determine the multilocus genotype of each fruit’s pollen donor. Inflorescences had multiple pollen donors, but simulation analyses revealed that redundancy of pollen donors tended to be more likely within inflorescences than randomly across the crown. Analysis of genetic and genotypic diversity indicated that individual maternal trees received pollen from many donors in uneven frequencies. Results suggest that isolated trees receive pollen from slightly fewer pollen donors and experience more within-plant pollinator movement than trees in populations. However, isolated trees receive qualitatively similar pollen from many sources, suggesting that these trees are not effectively isolated and that pollen moves long distances in this species.
Elective endovascular aortic repair conversion for type Ia endoleak is not associated with increased morbidity or mortality compared with primary juxtarenal aneurysm repair

Objective Type Ia endoleak after endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) can be a challenging complication to manage, and due to concerns regarding morbidity and mortality of open surgical conversion (OSC), reports of complex endoluminal salvage techniques are increasing. Despite development of these endovascular remedial strategies, many patients ultimately require OSC. The purpose of this analysis was to outcomes of elective OSC for type Ia endoleak and compare them with elective primary open juxtarenal aneurysm repair (OJAR) to determine if these concerns are warranted. Methods From 2000 to 2012, 54 patients underwent EVAR OSC at median time of 27 months (interquartile range, 9-55 months). Indications included endograft thrombosis in 2 (4%), intraoperative EVAR failure in 3 (6%), rupture in 5 (9%), graft infection in 6 (11%), and type Ia endoleak in 25 (all: 38 [70%]). Because many OSCs are performed for emergency indications without endovascular options, we chose elective type Ia endoleak patients as our study group. These 25 patients were compared with an elective OJAR cohort matched by anatomy and comorbidities. Primary end points were 30-day and 1-year mortality. Secondary end points included early complications, cross-clamp time, procedure time, blood loss, and length of stay. Results Demographic and comorbidity data in the OSC and OJAR groups did not differ, with the exception that OJAR patients presented with smaller aneurysm diameter and a higher rate of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( P = .03). OSC patients more frequently underwent a nontube graft repair (OSC, n = 20 [80%] vs OJAR, n = 6 [24%]; P = .0002), required longer procedure times ( P = .03), and received more plasma transfusions ( P = .03). The 30-day mortality was 4% in both groups (observed difference in rates, 0%; 95% confidence interval for difference in mortality rates, −14.0% to 14.0%; P = 1). A similar rate of major complications occurred (OSC, n = 9 [36%] vs OJAR, n = 8 [32%]; P = 1). One-year survival was 83% in OSC and 91% in OJAR (observed difference, 7%; 95% confidence interval, −15% to 29%; P = .65). Conclusions Despite many advances in EVAR technology, the need for OSC persists and will likely become more common as older-generation devices fail or providers attempt EVAR in more anatomically complex patients. Elective OSC for type Ia endoleak can be technically challenging but is not associated with increased morbidity or mortality compared with OJAR in appropriately selected patients. These results should be considered before pursuing complex endovascular remediation of EVAR failures.
PSO-Based Multi-Criteria Optimum Design of A Grid-Connected Hybrid Power System With Multiple Renewable Sources of Energy

With the stricter environmental regulation and diminishing fossil-fuel reserve, various renewable sources of energy are being exploited. These alternative sources of energy are usually environmentally friendly and emit no pollutants. However, the capital investments for those renewable sources of energy are normally high and there are also maintenance cost differences to be considered. Furthermore, due to the variability of these power sources, reliability issues should be addressed when integrating different power sources. In this paper, a grid-connected hybrid generating system comprising wind turbine generators, photovoltaic panels, and storage batteries is designed. In this multi-source generation system design, three design objectives are considered, that is, costs, reliability, and pollutant emissions. Considering the complexity of this problem, we have developed a multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm to derive a set of non-dominated solutions, each of which represents a candidate system design. A numerical example is discussed to illustrate the design procedure and the simulation results are analyzed
Relations between bleeding and outcomes in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction in the ExTRACT-TIMI 25 trial

Aims To evaluate the association of bleeding with mortality in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods and results We studied 20 323 patients with STEMI receiving fibrinolytic therapy and an antithrombin in ExTRACT-TIMI 25. Relationships between in-hospital bleeding, patient characteristics, treatments, and in-hospital cardiovascular complications with mortality were evaluated using Cox models. Likelihood ratios estimated each variable's model contribution. High 30-day mortality after major bleeding ( n = 309, 37.6% mortality) was driven by the poor prognosis of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH; n = 143, 65.4% mortality, model contribution 7.8%). The adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for 30-day death for any major bleeding and for ICH were 2.9 [2.4–3.6] and 10.3 [8.2–12.8], respectively. Neither non-ICH major nor minor bleeding was associated with 30-day death after adjustment. Cardiogenic shock (HR 13.5, 61% contribution) and age (HR 1.6/decade, 17% contribution) were most strongly correlated with 30-day death. Among 30-day survivors, age (HR 1.6/decade, contribution 43%) and heart rate (HR 1.2 per 10 b.p.m., contribution 18%) were most strongly associated with mortality between Days 31 and 365. Conclusion Cardiogenic shock, age, and ICH were important independent correlates of 30-day and 1-year mortality in STEMI patients receiving fibrinolytic therapy. In-hospital non-ICH major and minor bleeding were not independently associated with increased mortality at 30 days or 1 year.
Molecular Characteristics of Canine Cardiac Myosin

Cardiac myosin was obtained from the hearts of normal dogs by conventional extraction and precipitation techniques, followed by ammonium sulfate fractionation in the presence of 2.0 M lithium chloride. The molecular characteristics of this protein preparation are presented. Cardiac myosin prepared by this technique shows less tendency than conventionally prepared solutions to denature when stored at 0 to 4°C, and has a significantly higher ATPase activity. Comparison of canine cardiac myosin and skeletal muscle myosin, obtained under identical conditions, revealed no differences between these two proteins in their intrinsic viscosities, S20. w, molecular weight, and UV absorbances, although ATPase activity was lower for cardiac myosin.
Epigenetic mechanisms in schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a major psychiatric disorder that lacks a unifying neuropathology, while currently available pharmacological treatments provide only limited benefits to many patients. This review will discuss how the field of neuroepigenetics could contribute to advancements of the existing knowledge on the neurobiology and treatment of psychosis. Genome-scale mapping of DMA methylation, histone modifications and variants, and chromosomal loopings for promoter-enhancer interactions and other epigenetic determinants of genome organization and function are likely to provide important clues about mechanisms contributing to dysregulated expression of synaptic and metabolic genes in schizophrenia brain, including the potential links to the underlying genetic risk architecture and environmental exposures. In addition, studies in animal models are providing a rapidly increasing list of chromatin-regulatory mechanisms with significant effects on cognition and complex behaviors, thereby pointing to the therapeutic potential of epigenetic drug targets in the nervous system.
Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis in Negroes

The records of ninety-five Negroes with slipped capital femoral epiphyses treated at the Charity Hospital in New Orleans were reviewed in an attempt to assay the validity of the clinical observation of the attending staff at Charity Hospital that the results of treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis in Negroes is far more unsatisfactory than the results reported in the orthopaedic literature. Thirty-two of the ninety-five patients had bilateral involvement. In this series of 127 hips, only fifty-nine patients reached the age of eighteen years without incapacitating pain accompanied by degeneration of the joint and limitation of motion. This study indicates that the natural history of the slipped capital femoral epiphysis in a Negro differs from that in a Caucasian in that early degeneration of the joint accompanied by pain and limitation of motion is common, regardless of the method of treatment, and appears to be in direct relationship to the degree of slip.
Broadband assessment of degree-2 gravitational changes from GRACE and other estimates, 2002-2015

Space geodetic measurements, including the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE), satellite laser ranging (SLR), and Earth rotation provide independent and increasingly accurate estimates of variations in Earth's gravity field Stokes coefficients ΔC21, ΔS21, and ΔC20. Mass redistribution predicted by climate models provides another independent estimate of air and water contributions to these degree-2 changes. SLR has been a successful technique in measuring these low-degree gravitational changes. Broadband comparisons of independent estimates of ΔC21, ΔS21, and ΔC20 from GRACE, SLR, Earth rotation, and climate models during the GRACE era from April 2002 to April 2015 show that the current GRACE release 5 solutions of ΔC21 and ΔS21 provided by the Center for Space Research (CSR) are greatly improved over earlier solutions and agree remarkably well with other estimates, especially on ΔS21 estimates. GRACE and Earth rotation ΔS21 agreement is exceptionally good across a very broad frequency band from intraseasonal, seasonal, to interannual and decadal periods. SLR ΔC20 estimates remain superior to GRACE and Earth rotation estimates, due to the large uncertainty in GRACE ΔC20 solutions and particularly high sensitivity of Earth rotation ΔC20 estimates to errors in the wind fields. With several estimates of ΔC21, ΔS21, and ΔC20 variations, it is possible to estimate broadband noise variance and noise power spectra in each, given reasonable assumptions about noise independence. The GRACE CSR release 5 solutions clearly outperform other estimates of ΔC21 and ΔS21 variations with the lowest noise levels over a broad band of frequencies.
Delayed Effect of Monsoon Rains Influences Laying Date of a Passerine Bird Living in an Arid Environment

Much work has established that early spring temperatures modulate the onset of egg laying in resident birds of the north Temperate Zone. Most of this work has been done on the Great Tit (Parus major) and other parids in Holland (Kluijver 1951, VanBalen 1973), England (Lack 1958, Perrins and McCleery 1989) and other European countries (Dhondt et al. 1984, Barba et al. 1995). Little is known, however, about yearly variation in factors that affect the timing of laying in resident passerine species that inhabit different climatic regimes (but see Lambrechts and Dias 1993). We report here on some climatic correlates of laying date in a natural population of the Mexican Jay that has been studied for 24 years in the mountains of southeastern Arizona. This region has a monsoonal climate that differs greatly from that in Europe and much of North America. A hot, dry spring with almost no precipitation is followed by heavy monsoon rains in July and August (39% of annual total, range 18-73%) and a cold winter, including snow. Annual precipitation on the study area averaged 562.1 mm (SD = 131.5, range 252.0-780.5). The pattern of leaf fall and regrowth in southeastern Arizona also differs considerably from that in northwestern Europe. The vegetation on the study area is Madrean evergreen woodland (Brown 1982). Nearly all trees on our study area are evergreen. In particular, the oaks, except in extreme drought years, retain their leaves through winter and grow new ones immediately after dropping the old ones in spring. In a first attempt to identify ecological factors that influence the date of laying and the frequency of second clutches in a natural population of the Mexican Jay, we examine here the importance of certain climatic factors. 'Received 20 March 1996. Accepted 16 July 1996. SHORT COMMUNICATIONS 879