cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predictors of inconsistent contraceptive use among adolescent girls: findings from a prospective study.

Abstract Purpose To assess the independent effects of various behavioral and psychosocial antecedents on contraceptive use among a sample of low-income African-American adolescent females. Methods Stepwise logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios for baseline predictors of inconsistent contraceptive use six months later. Study participants include 375 nonpregnant African-American girls aged 14–18 years who reported sexual activity in the previous six months. Data were collected using a self-administered survey, individual interview and urine pregnancy test. Results Adolescents who were inconsistent contraceptive users at follow-up were more likely to have reported a desire for pregnancy, previous inconsistent contraceptive use, less frequent communication with their partners about prevention issues, and an increased number of lifetime sexual partners at the baseline assessment. Of equal importance was the finding that a previous pregnancy or sexually transmitted infection did not influence future contraceptive behaviors. Conclusions Clinicians can play an important role in counseling adolescents about sexual health and dispelling misperceptions that hinder consistent contraceptive use. Findings from this research could have significant implications for the development of effective sexually transmitted infection (STI) and pregnancy prevention programs for adolescents and can help in guiding clinicians toward relevant treatment practices.
Does the National Board of Medical Examiners’ Surgery Subtest level the playing field?

Abstract Background We sought to determine if scores on the National Board of Medical Examiners' Surgery Subject Examination (NBME-SS) correlated with ward assessment of Fund of Knowledge and how the NBME-SS scores impacted surgery clerkship grade. Methods Student evaluations from 4 academic years (1999–2003) were analyzed. Scores from the Fund of Knowledge subsection were compared with scores on the NBME-SS. Student final grades were calculated with (at a weight of 10%) and without NBME-SS score. Results Data were available for all 399 students who rotated on surgery during the study period. Fund of Knowledge score and NBME-SS scores correlated minimally (Pearson's r = 0.108, P = 0.031). Performance on the NBME-SS helped 11% of students' grades, but 64% of students' grades were hurt. Fifteen percent of the students missed receiving honors because of their performance on the NBME-SS. Conclusions The NBME-SS negatively influenced the grades of a large proportion of students and correlated only minimally with Fund of Knowledge scores as assessed on ward evaluations.
Color Vision: Appearance Is a Many-Layered Thing

The color of a surface changes when it is surrounded by other colors. A new illusion shows these changes are much stronger when seen through other colors as transparency, suggesting the brain parses the causes of color into separate layers.
A numerical solution to the steady-state equation of transfer in azimuthally symmetric geometries☆

Abstract The code GLAM solves the two-dimensional, azimuthally symmetric, steady-state equation of transfer for the energy density, flux and pressure tensor. The code calculates the intensity along a given ray and then numerically integrates the intensity to obtain the various moments. A unique feature of the code is the method for the calculation of the limits of the azimuthal angle. The code can handle the source-free vacuum equations and problems with emission and isotropic scattering sources. The code also has an option for the calculation of geometric view factors.
Accurate Estimation of Conductivity of Water from Geoelectrical Measurements— A New Way to Correct for Clay

We propose a new way to correct estimates of solution conductivity for the effects of clay in a rock. The bulk electrical conductivity of a rock is dependent on its porosity, the conductivity of the pore fluid, and its clay content. Archie's law relates the bulk electrical conductivity to the first two factors only. The third factor, clay, enhances a rock's conductivity through surface conduction, and simple application of Archie's law will lead to overestimates of the solution conductivity. The enhancement due to clay can be estimated from measurements of induced polarization, however, and the bulk conductivity of the rock can be corrected. This correction will then lead to a more accurate estimate of the solution conductivity. Both resistivity and induced polarization can be measured by geophysical techniques. Interpretations of geophysical data are inherently nonunique, however, unless wells are correlated with the data. The method proposed here requires calibration with subsurface samples from at least one location. We have tested the method we propose to correct for clay in an area already sampled by monitoring wells. The corrections lead to substantial improvements in the correlation between solution conductivities from wells and from geophysical measurements. We are not proposing replacement of wells with geophysical soundings. Rather, the geophysical measurements, which are obtained at a fraction of the cost of a well, can be used to site wells and minimize the amount of drilling needed.
Sonography of intrascrotal hematomas simulating testicular rupture in adolescents

Four cases of intrascrotal hematoma simulating testicular rupture were noted in teenagers. Careful sonographic technique allowed for the discovery of the normal testicle in a more peripheral location in the scrotum. Duplex doppler aided in confirming a normal testis in one case.
Transient electromagnetic inversion: A remedy for magnetotelluric static shifts

ABSTRACT Surficial bodies can severely distort magnetotelluric (MT) apparent resistivity data to arbitrarily low frequen- ties. This distortion, known as the MT static shift, is due to an electric field generated from boundary charges on surficial inhomogeneities, and persists throughout the entire MT recording range. Static shifts are manifested in the data as vertical, parallel shifts of log-log apparent resistivity sounding curves, the impedance phase being unaffected. Using a three-dimensional (3-D) numerical modeling algorithm, simulated MT data with finite length electrode arrays are generated. Significam.staticshifts are produced in this simulation; however, for some geometries they are impossible to identify. Techniques such as spatial averaging and electromag- netic array profiling (EMAP) are effective in removing static shifts, but they are expensive, especially for correct- ing a previously collected MT data set. Parametric repre- sentation and use of a single invariant quantity, such as the impedance tensor determinant, are only useful in lim- ited circumstances and can lead the MT interpreter astray. Transient electromagnetic (TEM) sounding data are rela- tively inexpensive to collect, do not involve electric field measurements, and are only affected at very early times by surficial bodies. Hence, using TEM data acquired at the same location provides a natural remedy for the MT static shift. We describe a correction scheme to shift distorted MT curves to their correct values based on I-D inversion of a TEM sounding taken at the same location as the MT site. From this estimated 1-D resistivity structure an MT sounding is computed at frequencies on the order of 1 Hz and higher. The observed MT curves are then shifted to the position of the computed curve, thus eliminating static shifts. This scheme is accurate when the overlap region between the MT and TEM sounding is l-D, but helpful information can be gleaned even in multidimensional envi- ronments. Other advantages of this scheme are that it is straightforward to ascertain if the correction scheme is being accurately applied and it is easy to implement on a personal computer.
Cheilorhabditis and Odontorhabditis, Two New Genera of Soil Nematodes Allied To Rhabditis

L'auteur donne la diagnose de deux nouveaux genres de nematodes libres du sol apparentes a Rhabditis. Chaque genre est represente par une espece dont l'auteur donne la description du mâle et de la femelle. Les deux genres se differencient de Rhabditis par la presencc d'une dent dorsale ou plaque transversale formee par la paroi dcs meso-metarhabdions. Le genre Cheilorhabditis est caracterise principalement par la presence des cheilorhabdions sclerotises, courbes en forme de point d'interrogation. Le genre Odontorhabditis est caracterise principalement par la presence des cheilorhabdions legerement courbes mais non sclerotises. Les deux genres ont ete trouves dans la partie souterraine d'un bananier pourri.
Stimulated Raman investigation of CO2-laser-excited SF6☆

Abstract Stimulated Raman spectroscopy is used to probe the photoexcitation dynamics of CO 2 -laser-excited SF 6 in a molecular free-expansion jet. Time-dependent depletion of rotational levels in the ground state is observed by monitoring the ν 1 Raman spectrum at various delay times after the CO 2 -laser excitation pulse. Optical Stark shifts are also seen, at short delay times, arising from resonances of the IR laser pulse with ν 3 transitions from both ground and ν 1 = 1 states. Molecules excited to the ν 3 = 1 level are detected by scanning the ν 1 + ν 3 − ν 3 hot band. A direct determination of the anharmonicity X 13 = −2.910 ± 0.002 cm −1 is thus obtained.
Plasticity of mature sensory cerebrovascular axons following intracranial infusion of nerve growth factor

Mature perivascular sympathetic axons associated with the intradural segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA) of the adult rat respond by sprouting following a two week infusion of nerve growth factor (NGF) into the lateral ventricle of the brain. Because nonsympathetic axons such as those comprising the sensory and parasympathetic population have been shown to respond to NGF, the present study was carried out to determine whether mature sensory axons respond to in vivo NGF infusion and whether competitive interactions between the innervating populations might affect the responsiveness of these axons to NGF. Standard electron microscopic techniques as well as calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) immunohistochemistry at the light microscopic level were used to examine the effects of intracerebroventricular NGF infusion on mature perivascular fibers with and without prior sympathetic denervation (i. e., bilateral superior cervical ganglionectomy). Following NGF infusion, CGRPimmunoreactive fibers appeared thicker and more numerous in the longitudinal plane when compared with vehicle controls. However, at the ultrastructural level, a significant increase in the total number of axons was not observed, although there was an increase in the number of large granular vesicles, suggesting that the CGRP fibers responded to exogenous NGF with an increase in neurotransmitter content, but not by sprouting. Sympathetic denervation, on the other hand, resulted in a significant increase in the number of fibers passing in the circumferential plane. The most dramatic change in CGRP immunoreactivity was observed following combined sympathetic denervation and subsequent NGF infusion, where, in addition to the presence of thicker immunoreactive fibers, a significant increase in the perivascular density of immunoreactive fibers associated with the intradural blood vessels was observed. These findings suggest that exogenous NGF has different effects on mature sympathetic and nonsympathetic fibers that innervate intradural blood vessels. The former exhibit robust sprouting, whereas the latter do not sprout in response to NGF but show evidence for increased neuropeptide content. In addition, the heightened response by sensory axons following denervation and subsequent NGF infusion provides support for the idea that sensory and sympathetic axons normally compete for target space and/or target-derived neurotrophic factors. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Who owns the mods

Modding, the development of end user software extensions to commercial products, is popular among video gamers. Modders form communities to help each other. Mods can shape software products by weaving in contributions from users themselves based on their own experience of a product. The purpose of this paper is to investigate a conflict between a modding community and a gaming company which reveals contested issues of ownership and governance. We studied an online game, World of Warcraft, a large multiplayer game produced by Blizzard Entertainment. From content analysis of forum posts and interviews with modders, we explore the connected but divergent ethical systems of modders and Blizzard. The question -- Who owns the mods? -- arises through different perspectives of mods ownership rooted within contradictory ethics and practices in the two communities.
Impacts of biofuels production alternatives on water quantity and quality in the Iowa River Basin

Corn stover as well as perennial grasses like switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and miscanthus are being considered as candidates for the second generation biofuel feedstocks. However, the challenges to biofuel development are its effects on the environment, especially water quality. This study evaluates the long-term impacts of biofuel production alternatives (e.g., elevated corn stover removal rates and the potential land cover change) on an ecosystem with a focus on biomass production, soil erosion, water quantity and quality, and soil nitrate nitrogen concentration at the watershed scale. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was modified for setting land cover change scenarios and applied to the Iowa River Basin (a tributary of the Upper Mississippi River Basin). Results show that biomass production can be sustained with an increased stover removal rate as long as the crop demand for nutrients is met with appropriate fertilization. Although a drastic increase (4.7–70.6%) in sediment yield due to erosion and a slight decrease (1.2–3.2%) in water yield were estimated with the stover removal rate ranging between 40% and 100%, the nitrate nitrogen load declined about 6–10.1%. In comparison to growing corn, growing either switchgrass or miscanthus can reduce sediment erosion greatly. However, land cover changes from native grass to switchgrass or miscanthus would lead to a decrease in water yield and an increase in nitrate nitrogen load. In contrast to growing switchgrass, growing miscanthus is more productive in generating biomass, but its higher water demand may reduce water availability in the study area.
Health, retirement, and migration from metro counties: evidence from the health and retirement study.

Event history analyses and difference-in-proportions tests are used to analyze 1994−2003 data from the Health and Retirement Survey. For young-old metropolitan adults who had never retired, self-rated health (SRH) was unrelated to the odds of becoming a migrant, but for those who had retired, better SRH raised the odds. Neither SRH nor its interwave change was related to the risk of a nonmetro or metro destination. Metro-metro and metro-nonmetro migrants were indistinguishable in their recalled reasons for migration. The implications of the findings for theory and future research are discussed.
Triiodothyronine and Thyroxine during Gestation in Dairy Cattle Selected for High and Low Milk Production

Circulating thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and prolactin were analyzed by radioimmunoassay from two groups of pregnant heifers representing genetic populations that differed by 685 kg milk in their first lactation. At 100 days of gestation, blood samples were taken every 15 min for prolactin assay and every 2 h to determine variations of thyroid hormone serum concentration from 0800 to 2000. Basal serum prolactin concentrations in the two genetic groups were not significantly different. A pattern was consistent for both triiodothyronine and thyroxine; concentrations were lower in the morning and higher during the afternoon. Serum triiodothyronine means were not different in the high-producing (1.84 ng/ml) and low-producing heifers (1.86 ng/ml). Serum thyroxine concentrations were significantly higher in the low-producing heifers (67.84 ng/ml) than in high-producing heifers (59.18 ng/ml). The higher thyroxine concentration in pregnant heifers with lower producing ability suggests a negative relationship of thyroxine to milk yield potential.
Thyroid hormone-independent regulation of mitochondrial glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase by the peroxisome proliferator clofibric acid.

Le role de l'hormone thyroide dans la stimulation de la glycerol-3-phosphate deshydrogenase mitochondriale par un proliferateur de peroxysome, l'acide clofibrique a ete etudiee sur des hepatocytes de rat en culture primaire. La stimulation a ainsi pu etre correlee a la β-oxydation dans les peroxysomes
Comparison of breast percent density estimation from raw versus processed digital mammograms

ABSTRACT We compared breast percent density (PD%) measures obtained from raw and post-processed digital mammographic (DM) images. Bilateral raw and post-processed medio-lateral oblique (MLO) images from 81 screening studies were retrospectively analyzed. Image acquisition was performed w ith a GE Healthcare DS full-field DM system. Image post-processing was performed using the PremiumView TM algorithm (GE Healthcare). Area-b ased breast PD% was estimated by a radiologist using a semi-automated image thresholding technique ( Cumulus, Univ. Toronto ). Comparison of breast PD% between raw and post-processed DM images was performed using the Pearson correlation (r), linear regression, and Students t-test. Intra-reader variability was assessed with a repeat read on the same data-set. Our results show that breast PD% measurements from ra w and post-processed DM images have a high correlation ( r=0.98, R 2 =0.95, p<0.001). Paired t-test comparison of breast PD% between the raw and the post-processe d images showed a statistically significant difference equal to 1.2% (p = 0.006). Our results suggest that the relatively small magnitude of the absolute difference in PD% between raw and post-processed DM images is unlikely to be clinically significant in breast cancer risk stratification. Therefore, it may be feasible to use post-processed DM images for breast PD% estimation in clinical settings. Since most breast imaging clinics routinely use and store only the post-processed DM images, breast PD% estimation from post-processed data may accelerate the integration of breast density in breast cancer risk assessment models used in clinical practice. Key Words: Digital mammography (DM), breast percent density (PD%), breast cancer risk estimation.
Oxyradical production by hepatopancreas microsomes from the red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii

Abstract Microsomes catalyze the one electron reduction of many xenobiotics leading to proliferative production of damaging oxyradicals via redox cycling. The oxidation of 2-keto-4-thiomethylbutyric acid (KMBA) to ethylene was used as a means to study the O2-/H2O2-generating oxidase pathway of hepatopancreas microsomes from the red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. Ethylene was produced by P. clarkii hepatopancreas microsomes in a chelex-treated incubation medium. The reaction was dependent upon NAD(P)H, O2 and intact microsomes. NADH supported a 2- to 3-fold greater rate of KMBA oxidation by hepatopancreas microsomes than did NADPH, whereas NADPH supported a higher rate of KMBA oxidation than did NADH using rat liver microsomes. Ethylene production was increased approximately 3-fold in the presence of azide, an inhibitor of catalase, suggesting that H2O2 served as the precursor of · OH ∗ production. Likewise, the addition of exogenous catalase in an azide-free system almost completely eliminated ethylene production. Superoxide dismutase was without any significant effect on KMBA oxidation by P. clarkii microsomes. Ethylene production by P. clarkii hepatopancreas microsomes was suppressed by competing hydroxyl radical scavenging agents, i.e. benzoate, mannitol, ethanol, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Ferric ethylenediaminetetracetic acid (EDTA) stimulated NAD(P)H-dependent ethylene production in a dose-related manner, thus ferric was reduced by the system. KMBA oxidation was stimulated by EDTA alone and inhibited by the potent ferric-binding chelate, desferrioxamine suggesting the presence of iron in the microsomal system. Rates of · OH generation as measured by formaldehyde production from DMSO were consistent with rates calculated via ethylene production from KMBA. These data show that hepatopancreas microsomes generate potent oxidants during NAD(P)H-dependent microsomal electron transport. The kinetics of oxidant production appears to reflect differential reactivities of ferric-EDTA with NADH- vs. NADPH-dependent reductase(s) which varies considerably between hepatopancreas and rat liver microsomal systems.
INCREASING INCIDENCE OF FEMORAL OSTEOLYSIS IN ASSOCIATION WITH UNCEMENTED HARRIS-GALANTE TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY A FOLLOW-UP REPORT

Abstract Sixty-nine consecutive uncemented total hip arthroplasties were performed in 59 patients using the Harris—Galante prosthesis (Zimmer, Warsaw, IN). The patients were reviewed an average of 44 and 71 months after surgery. Patients in whom femoral osteolysis was identified at the time of the first review were again evaluated at the second review to determine if the size of the osteolytic lesion had increased over time. At the initial review an average of 44 months postsurgery, the overall incidence of femoral osteolysis was 22%. At the second review, the incidence of femoral osteolysis had increased from 22 to 52%. Two thirds of the lytic lesions diagnosed at the time of the first review had increased in size. This study demonstrated that the incidence of femoral osteolysis in cementless hip arthroplasties increases with time and that the majority of existing lesions enlarge over time. Once lesions are identified, more frequent follow-up evaluations are recommended. Revision surgery may be required for progressive femoral osteolysis, despite the absence of significant clinical symptoms.
The Investigation of Study Strategies that Maximize Learning for Underprepared Students

Abstract. Research has consistently found that college students, especially freshmen, are not independent learners. To help students become self-regulated learners, reading and study skills courses as well as academic assistance programs should be designed to address this concern. Students must develop an inventory of study strategies that can be selectively employed to meet the particular demands of the materials and assignments involved. The purpose of this study is to review several study strategies and to analyze which strategies correlated with test performance.
The molecular Zeeman effect in HCP, HCN, and HCCBr and a comparison with similar molecules

Abstract The molecular Zeeman effect has been observed in the J = 0 → 1 Δ M = 0, and ± 1 transitions in H 12 CP, D 12 CP, H 12 C 15 N, H 12 C 12 C 79 Br, and H 12 C 12 C 81 Br giving the molecular g -values, magnetic susceptibility anisotropies, and corresponding molecular quadrupole moments. The results are g ⊥ (HCP) = −0.0430 ± 0.0010, g ⊥ (DCP) = −0.0353 ± 0.0010, x ⊥ - x | = (8.4 ± 0.9) × 10 −6 erg/G 2 mole and Q | (HCP) = (4.4 ± 1.2) × 10 −26 esu; g ⊥ (HC 15 N) = −0.0904 ± 0.0003, x ⊥ - x | = (7.2 ± 0.4) × 10 −6 erg/G 2 mole, and Q | (HC 15 N) = (3.1 ± 0.6) × 10 −26 esu; g ⊥ (HCC 79 Br) = −0.00395 ± 0.00032, g ⊥ (HCC 81 Br) = −0.00388 ± 0.00014, x ⊥ - x | = (9.5 ± 0.9) × 10 −6 erg/G 2 mole, and Q | = (8.5 ± 1.1) × 10 −26 esu. The results in HCN agree very well with an earlier prediction of the magnetic properties. The new results presented here are compared to other members in the acetylene and cyanide series of molecules and we conclude that the sign of the g -value in acetylene should be positive. The deuterium nuclear quadrupole coupling constant was also determined in DCP to be x D = 233 ± 40 kHz.
Quantitative determination of kinins released by trypsin using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and identification by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)☆

Rapid ELISA and HPLC procedures were developed for quantitation and identification of various natural kinins. Antibradykinin mouse monoclonal antibodies were used to determine kinin levels in the range of 20-200 ng. Bradykinin coupled to bovine serum albumin was used to coat the plates in a 3- to 4-hr ELISA. Synthetic kinin standards isoleucine-seryl-bradykinin (Ileu-Ser-BK), methionyl-lysyl-bradykinin (Met-Lys-BK), tyrosine-bradykinin (Tyr-BK) and bradykinin (BK) yielded almost identical curves with a mixture of A5 and D9 monoclonal antibodies. [Tyr5]-BK, [Tyr8]-BK and des-arginine9 bradykinin (des-Arg9-BK) showed negligible amounts of cross-reactivity. ELISA-compatible trypsin digestion developed for release of kinins from plasma of normal humans, rats and turpentine-treated rats gave values of 3.2, 6.9 and 70 micrograms/ml plasma, respectively. High performance liquid chromatography methods were developed for complete resolution of kinins on a C-18 reversed phase mu-Bondapak column before and after derivatization with phenyl isothiocyanate (PITC). The simple PITC derivatization procedure yielded good quantitation above 20 pmol. The ELISA and HPLC methods were used in a complementary fashion to assay and identify kinins in biological fluids as well as during the course of kininogen purification.
Gametocytogenesis of Leucocytozoon smithi.

. Development of young gamelocytes of Leucocytozoon smithi into morphologically mature forms was studied using electron microscopy. Gametocytogenesis began on day seven post inoculation when merozoites, released from ruptured hepatic schizonts, developed into gametocytes within mononuclear phagocytes or leukocytes (monocytes or lymphocytes). No gametocytes were observed in any erythrocytes or polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Two gametocyte forms, round and elongate, were observed. Immature round gametocytes occurred on days 7-10 post inoculation in the deep vasculature of liver, lung and spleen. Mature elongate gametocytes were observed beginning on day 12 post inoculation in both the deep tissue vasculature and peripheral circulation of the turkey host. Growth and elongation of the gametocyte resulted in distortion of the host cell and its nucleus. the host cell nucleus initially was elongated and displaced to one side or indented by the growing parasite. Eventually, the nucleus was laterally compressed or split into two or three fragments. the compressed host cell cytoplasm was displaced longitudinally and stretched over the parasite to form hornlike cytoplasmic extensions from each end. the potential role of microtubules in the elongation of the gametocyte and its host cell, and possibly in the indentation and splitting of the host cell nucleus, is discussed.
A perturbation solution of the equation of motion for the density matrix

Abstract A solution of the Laplace transform of the equation of motion for the density matrix is obtained in terms of a resolventlike operator. A suitable expansion of the resolvent in terms of irreducible matrix elements is obtained and, as an application of the formalism, the emission of radiation from a two-level system is treated in the lowest order of present perturbation theory.
Generalized molecular duplexes

Abstract A graph-theoretical construction yields for any parent molecule a collection of “partial duplexes” whose one-electron eigenvalues are those of the parent together with those in which a subset of parent bonds has weight −1. A parent with γ cycles has at most 2γ distinct partial duplexes.
In vitro cytoadherence of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes to melanoma cells: factors affecting adhesion.

A reproducible and standardized assay for measuring the cytoadherence of knobby Plasmodium falciparum -infected red cells to amelanotic melanoma cells was developed. Adhesion was dependent on temperature, haematocrit, and parasitaemia. Addition of EDTA to the binding medium reduced adhesion. Removal of protease-sensitive molecules on the surface of the infected cell abolished cytoadherence, whereas removal of carbohydrate residues by treatment of cells with neuraminidase or galactosidase promoted adhesion. Calcium, magnesium, fibrinogen or fibronectin in the medium had no effect on adhesion nor was there any enhancement of adhesion by pre-loading infected cells with calcium. Serum was essential for good adhesion. Adhesion was species specific for target cells; human endothelial or amelanotic melanoma cells were suitable target cells whereas bovine cells were not. The amelanotic melanoma cell could be formalin-fixed and still retain its adhesion properties. The binding properties of formalin-fixed amelanotic melanoma cells were not identical to those of endothelial or unfixed target cells.
When A Father Goes to Jail: Legal Latitude and the Implications of Cross-Cultural Issues

The following article represents my testimony in a federal court case held in October 1994 in Philadelphia, PA. At the point when I was asked to participate in the case, the defendant had already been found guilty but was asking for leniency in sentencing under a clause in the law that allows for the consideration of cultural factors. I, in my capacity as a cultural anthropologist with an expertise in the Middle East, was called on as an expert witness to testify on the possible consequences of a father's incarceration on the lives of his daughters. This paper illustrates how anthropologists can contribute to legal proceedings that incorporate a cultural defense.
ATG7 deficiency suppresses apoptosis and cell death induced by lysosomal photodamage

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves photosensitizing agents that, in the presence of oxygen and light, initiate formation of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). PDT commonly induces both apoptosis and autophagy. Previous studies with murine hepatoma 1c1c7 cells indicated that loss of autophagy-related protein 7 (ATG7) inhibited autophagy and enhanced the cytotoxicity of photosensitizers that mediate photodamage to mitochondria or the endoplasmic reticulum. In this study, we examined two photosensitizing agents that target lysosomes: the chlorin NPe6 and the palladium bacteriopheophorbide WST11. Irradiation of wild-type 1c1c7 cultures loaded with either photosensitizer induced apoptosis and autophagy, with a blockage of autophagic flux. An ATG7- or ATG5-deficiency suppressed the induction of autophagy in PDT protocols using either photosensitizer. Whereas ATG5-deficient cells were quantitatively similar to wild-type cultures in their response to NPe6 and WST11 PDT, an ATG7-deficiency suppressed the apoptotic response (as monitored by analyses of chromatin condensation and procaspase-3/7 activation) and increased the LD(50) light dose by > 5-fold (as monitored by colony-forming assays). An ATG7-deficiency did not prevent immediate lysosomal photodamage, as indicated by loss of the lysosomal pH gradient. However, unlike wild-type and ATG5-deficient cells, the lysosomes of ATG7-deficient cells recovered this gradient within 4 h of irradiation, and never underwent permeabilization (monitored as release of endocytosed 10-kDa dextran polymers). We propose that the efficacy of lysosomal photosensitizers is in part due to both promotion of autophagic stress and suppression of autophagic prosurvival functions. In addition, an effect of ATG7 unrelated to autophagy appears to modulate lysosomal photodamage.
Tuning the Schottky barrier height in metal-alkaline earth oxide interfaces

Using calculations from first principles we have demonstrated that it is possible to tune the Schottky Barrier Height in a metal-alkaline earth oxide interface by manipulating the microscopic and macroscopic dipoles that naturally form at the junction between the two materials.
Preparation of Biscarboxylato Imido Alkylidene Complexes of Molybdenum and Cyclopolymerization of Diethyldipropargylmalonate To Give a Polyene Containing only Six-Membered Rings

We wanted to prepare a catalyst that would yield polymers having exclusively one ring size and therefore began a search for new initiators containing `ancillary` ligands other than alkoxides. We report here that a new class of catalysts containing bulky carboxylate ligands can be prepared which encourage regioselective addition of the first triple bond to an alkylidene to give only a {beta}-subsituted metallacyclobutene and therefore polyenes that contain only six-membered rings in the polymer backbone as a consequence of specific head-to-tail cyclopolymerization. 14 refs., 1 fig., 2 tabs.
Population density and demography of a fouling community amphipod

Tube-building amphipods are abundant members of fouling communities but are not major space competitors. Their ecology and relationships with the dominant fouling species are poorly understood. This study documents the population dynamics and demography of the amphipod Jassa marmorata Holmes in a New York fouling community. Large recruitment peaks were used to track age cohorts over time. Growth was exponential beginning in March, with high but variable densities through the summer, declining to winter low levels in November. Of the 5 overlapping cohorts yr−1, 3 were present between May and September. Survivorship and mortality curves differed between overwintering vs. summer cohorts. Life spans of the former were 6–8 months but <3 months for the latter. Adult body size varied inversely with water temperature and was a major determinant of fecundity. The density of gravid females varied inversely with body size. Thus, water temperature indirectly determined recruitment rates by affecting body size, fecundity, and cohort life spans. The summer population explosion was correlated with expansive growth of hydroids, Ulva, and especially, the erect bryozoan Bugula turrita (Desor), all provided living space for Jassa. Mortality rates of adults in the short-lived summer cohorts limited population growth in summer. Multiple cohorts confer flexibility for the Jassa population by facilitating recruitment onto newly developing ecospace in a rapidly fluctuating community. Water temperature, as a determinant of body size and lifespan, is a major regulatory factor affecting density and demography in this population.
Cloning and accumulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes in developing tubers

Anthocyanins are a class of flavonoids that are responsible for the pigmentation of red potato periderm. The cDNAs of two genes were cloned from ‘Norland’ periderm and, based on their sequence similarity to genes in various databases, were identified as the anthocyanin biosynthetic genes for leucoanthocyanidin dioxygenase (EC 1.14.11.19) and UDP glucose: flavonoid 3-O-glucosyl transferase (EC 2.4.1.91). The mRNA accumulation of these genes in periderm during the development of tubers was determined using RNA gel blot analyses. The mRNA of the putativeLDOX was detected in cortex tissue and microtubers, but not in periderm. While mRNA of the putativeUFGT was detected in cortex tissue and periderm of young tubers, but not in periderm of tubers weighing more than 25 g. These data suggest that accumulation ofLDOX andUFGT mRNA may limit anthocyanin synthesis as Norland tubers develop.
Imagery in cognitive-behavior therapy: Research and application

Abstract This paper explores the uses of imagery within behavioral and cognitive-behavioral clinical interventions. The nature of imagery as a central human phenomenon is first examined and then recent theoretical models of the role of imagery in therapy are reviewed and evaluated critically. A trend towards broader conceptualizations of the role of imagery in treatment is highlighted. The notion of self-efficacy and its role in imagery methods is discussed. The specific kinds of imagery techniques that have been practiced, including systematic desensitization, positive imagery, covert conditioning, implosive imagery and others, are briefly described and research results bearing on their effectiveness are presented. The assessment of imagery for clinical purposes is outlined and the possibilities for enhancing imagery capabilities are explored. The paper concludes on a note of cautious optimism about the potential of imagery therapies, acknowledging the limitations of imagery. Finally, it is proposed that clinicians should adopt a “research perspective” to collect information on the effectiveness of their procedures and provide data which could be used to correct the course of therapy as needed.
Some considerations of the mechanics and design limitations of autofrettage

Abstract Results reported on heavy-wall steel cylinders prestressed by autofrettage (plastic radial expansion) are discussed. Optimum design is considered relative to flow, section size, and properties of the material. It is shown that the ability of steel to accept and retain residual stress is a function of the diameter ratio and strength of the material.Design procedures are suggested.
On subspaces of tensor products containing no elements of rank one

Let K be a field, and suppose A and B are vector spaces over K. In [l], the rank of an element x in A @ B was defined to be the least n such that x can be written as a sum of n tensor products: al @I b, + *** + a, 8 b, . If M is a subspace of A @ 23, r(M) was defined to be inf{rank x 1 x E M 0). If A and B are finite dimensional over K, it is of interest to consider subspaces M of A @ B of maximal possible dimension for which r(M) > 2. The interest in such subspaces arises from the following problem: Find the minimal possible dimension of a vector space C over K for which there exists a vector-space homomorphism
ΔB=2 transitions

Abstract It is pointed out that, for certain ΔB =2 operators, transitions of the form N+N→ mesons occuring in complex nuclei provide a much more sensitive probe than do neutron-antineutron oscillations in a vacuum.
Standardization and the Impacts of Voluntary Program Participation: Evidence from Environmental Auditing

Abstract We explore how limits to our insight about the underlying decision-making structure of firms may affect the conclusions we draw about the likely impacts of participation in voluntary environmental programs. We develop a theoretical model to examine the conditions under which a multi-facility firm chooses to employ a standardized adoption policy for a voluntary program. We test this model empirically using a firm-level dataset on the adoption of a voluntary environmental auditing program and find that, consistent with the theoretical model, a standardized auditing outcome is less likely among firms with more heterogeneous portfolios of facilities. We also examine the effect of environmental auditing on facility compliance using both firm-level and facility-level controls. We find that the estimated effect depends on whether or not measures that proxy for firm incentives for standardization are included in the analysis. These findings suggest caution in drawing conclusions on the effectiveness of voluntary programs in improving compliance based on analyses that assume standardization on the part of the firm.
Modified neglect of diatomic overlap calculations on boron‐nitrogen derivatives of nonbenzenoid aromatics. II. The analysis of the 130 possible nonfully boron‐nitrogen‐alternating isomers of pentaazapentaboraazulene

Modified neglect of diatomic overlap (MNDO) calculations have been used to investigate the ground state properties of the 130 nonfully boron-nitrogenalternating isomers of pentaazapentaboraazulene (PAPBAZ), N5B5H8. The two most stable of these nonfully boron-nitrogen-alternating isomers, 1,2,3a, 5,7-pentaaza-3,4,6,8,8a-pentaboraazulene, (1,2,3a, 5,7-PAPBAZ) (3), and 1,3,3a,5,7-PAPBAZ (4) have strongly exothermic heats of formation (−142.5 and −142.4 kcal/mol, respectively), while the two least stable isomers, 1,6,7,8,8a-PAPBAZ (131) and 1,2,3,3a,8a-PAPBAZ (132), are calculated to have endothermic heats of formation (+95.43 and +96.31 kcal/mol, respectively). Each isomer optimized as a slightly to extremely nonplanar molecule, but each remained a bicyclic system containing a seven-membered ring fused to a five-membered ring. Thus, no ring-opened structures were observed. An empirical relationship between the heat of formation and the number, position, and type of homonuclear (NN or BB) bonds present in the molecules could be established, but as the heat of formation for the molecules became more positive, the relationship became less strong. A general trend of diminishing energy difference between the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) was observed as the heat of formation became more positive. In addition to a discussion of the structures of (3), (4), (131), and (132), the structures of 2,3a,4,6,8-PAPBAZ (9), 2,3a,5,6,8-PAPBAZ (11), 1,2,4,6,8-PAPBAZ (15), 2,3a,4,7,8a-PAPBAZ (19), 1,3a,4,5,8-PAPBAZ (32), 1,2,3,5,7-PAPBAZ (47), 1,3a,5,8,8a-PAPBAZ (67), 1,3a,6,7,8a-PAPBAZ (87), 3a,4,6,8,8a-PAPBAZ (106), 1,2,3,5,6-PAPBAZ (109), 1,2,3a,8,8a-PAPBAZ (116), and 4,5,6,7,8-PAPBAZ (130) are discussed in detail. Some of these molecules were chosen because they represent the minima and maxima, respectively, in heats of formation [(3), (4), (130), (131), and (132)], ionization potentials [(9) and (32)], differences in LUMO and HOMO energies [(106) and (32)], and dipole moments [(11) and (87)]. The remaining molecules were chosen because each represent the most stable system containing the following homonuclear chains: B-B-B (15), N-N-N (19), B-B-B-B (47), N-N-N-N (67), B-B-B-B-B (109), and N-N-N-N-N (116).
Pharmacogenetics of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: challenges and opportunities.

Similar to other common chronic diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous disorder with multiple disease subtypes. Candidate gene studies have found genetic associations for COPD-related phenotypes that may be relevant for pharmacogenetics studies, including lung function decline and COPD exacerbations. However, few COPD pharmacogenetics studies have been completed. Most studies have focused on the role of variants in the β2-adrenergic receptor gene on bronchodilator response, but the findings have been inconclusive. Candidate gene studies highlight the concept that genes for COPD susceptibility may also be relevant in COPD pharmacogenetics. Currently, there are no clinical applications of pharmacogenetics to COPD therapy, but the use of pharmacogenetics to determine initial smoking cessation therapy may be closer to clinical application.
Computer-analyzer interfacing

Abstract Pulse height analyzers which are designed for binary output can simplify interfacing problems, and provide additional core storage for digital computers.
The Role of the Central Nervous System in the Integration of Proprioceptive Activity

Vibration exposure has been known to have both negative and positive effects on human dynamics in a variety of clinical and occupational applications. Whole body vibration is known to be associated with low back pain and low back disorders [1]. It has been shown that whole body vibration and vibration of the lumbar musculature can result in loss of proprioceptive accuracy and delays in muscular response to sudden loading [24]. Conversely, vibration of the musculature has also been proposed as a means to improve the effects of training and exercise on strength and endurance [5–7]. Vibration has a number of known effects on proprioception in particular. These include kinesthetic illusions during vibration exposure [8] and altered proprioception post-vibration exposure [3, 9]. Understanding the neural pathways that contribute to these effects is important in better understanding the clinical and occupational implications of vibration exposure. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to examine brain activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during a dynamic, proprioceptive task, both during and after vibration exposure in order to observe changes in activation that might contribute to these effects.© 2012 ASME
A genetic algorithms approach to the inference of cis-regulatory modules

We have developed GAMS, a system for the inference of cis-regulatory modules that uses a genetic algorithms approach to discover putatively conserved modules in large noncoding DNA sequences from divergent species. This paper describes the approach and presents preliminary results.
An Algorithm for Finding a Minimum Equivalent Graph of a Digraph

Abstract : A directed graph or digraph can be thought of as a communication network among a set of persons, where the vertices of the graph correspond to persons and edges of the graph to directed channels of communication from one person to another. A person is said to be able to 'reach' another if he can send a message to that person. The present paper gives an algorithm for finding the maximum number of edges that can be removed from a digraph without affecting its reachability properties. (Author)
An interval‐scale classification system for all 2×2 games

MF-$0.65 HC-$3.29 *Classification; Decision Making; *Games; *Game Theory; Mathematical Applications; *Mathematics; Models; Operations Research; Probability Theory; Problem Solving; Risk; *Trausformations (Mathematics) This extension of Harris' classification system permits classification of the interval-scale properties of any 2 x 2 ftwo person, two choice) game. The system is compared to taxonomies developed by various previous researchers. It is shown to permit compact description of any 2 x 2 game as an octet of numbers. It also permits rapid classification of comparisons among game matrices with respect to the strength of measurement which must be assumed for the comparison to be meaningful. (Author/CK) AN INTERVAL-SCALE CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FOR :434 2 x 2 GAMES Richard J. Harris U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION & WELFARE OFFICE OF EDUCATION LrN University of New Mexico THIS DOCUMENT HAS SEEN REPRODUCED EXACTLY AS RECEIVED FROM THE PERSON OR ORGANIZATION ORIGINATING IT POINTS OF VIEW OR OPINIONS STATED DO NOT NECESSARILY C=> REPRESENT OFFICIAL OFFICE OF EDU CATION POSITION OR POLICY t=2 LAJ An extension of Harris2 (1969) classification system permits classification of the interval-scale properties of any 2 x 2 (two person, two choice) game. The system is compared to taxonomies daveloped by Rapoport and Guyer (1966), Hamburger (1969), Harris (1969), and Wolf (1969). It is showri'to permit compact descri-,tion of any 2 x 2 game as an octet of numbers. It also permits rapid classification of comparisons among game matrices with respect to the strength of measurement which must be assumed f0.7 he comparison to be meaningful. AN INTERVAL-SCALE CLASSIFICATION SYSTEL4 FOR ALL 2 x 2 GAT!= Richard J. Harris University of New Naxico The present paper reports an extension of Harris' (1969) classification system for interval-symmetric games (i.e., games which look the same, up to a linear transformation of either or both players' payoffs, to both players) to encompass ail 2 x 2 (two person, two choice) games. First, the classification procedure is outlined. Next, it is compared with the taxonomies of Rapoport and Guyer (1966), Hamburger (1969), Harris (1969), and Wolf (1969). Finally, possible applications are discussed. The Classification System General rationale. The payoff matrix of any 2 x 2 game can, by interchanging its rows and/or columns (equivalent to a re-labelling of orw or both players' available strategies) be put into one of the four forms listed in rigure 1. Insert Figure 1 about here If one of the entries for each player (say ti, I = 1,2) can be unambiguously identified (as, say, the largest of player i's four payoffs), the others can be identified in relation to it. In particular, Rapoport and Chammah (1965) have proved that the interval-scale properties of any set of four numbers can be completely described by any two independent ratios of differences between pairs