cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
POLITICAL THEOLOGY AND THE NAZI STATE: CARL SCHMITT'S CONCEPT OF THE INSTITUTION

The fundamental importance of theology in the work of Carl Schmitt has been the subject of much recent literature on this controversial figure. However, there has been little consensus on the precise nature of Schmitt's own political theology—that is, on what links there are between his religious or metaphysical concepts and his ideas concerning the nature of political organization and action. This is especially the case with his works of the Nazi era, which are now being studied with the same kind of critical attention given to his more influential Weimar works. In this essay I focus on the important turn Schmitt made in the early years of the Third Reich, from “decisionism” to what he called “institutional thinking,” in order to reveal the theological basis for his understanding of the new regime. I will then argue that Schmitt's institutional approach had in fact always been central to his earlier, better-known writings on law and the state. Schmitt's concept of the institution, which had roots in French legal theory, grounded a political theology that was in the end less a metaphysical approach to the state than one that drew on the concrete example of the legal institutional order of the Catholic Church.
A Bacillus subtilis bglA gene encoding phospho-β-glucosidase is inducible and closely linked to a NADH dehydrogenase-encoding gene

Abstract A 2.7-kb Hin dIII fragment from Bacillus subtilis contains an open reading frame (ORF) encoding a protein with homology to an Escherichia coli phospho-β-glucosidase B (PBG B). The B. subtilis gene was induced by aromatic β-glucosides, as judged by Northern hybridization and could complement an E. coli bglB mutant. Immediately downstream from this B. subtilis bglA gene, there was a partial ORF on the opposite strand which encoded a polypeptide with extensive homology to NADH dehydrogenase from an alkalophilic Bacillus . These genes were mapped to 340° between hut and gnt on the B. subtilis chromosome. Disruption of these genes by insertion of a neomycin-resistance-encoding gene ( neo ) did not result in any phenotypic changes comparable to those found in E. coli mutants.
Phase mask fabrication for pupil encoding in computational optical imaging

Phase masks are used in computational optical imaging for pupil encoding and point spread function (PSF) engineering. Continuous surface relief masks are fabricated by maskless lithography and demonstrated in double-helix PSF systems.
A Note on Cluster Effects in Latent Class Analysis

This article examines the effects of clustering in latent class analysis. A comprehensive simulation study is conducted, which begins by specifying a true multilevel latent class model with varying...
Identification and characterization of a peptidic ligand for Ras.

The development of new ligands for the oncoprotein Ras can provide tools for the study of this important signaling component or potentially serve as therapeutic agents for the treatment of Ras-associated diseases. Herein, we report a peptidic Ras ligand identified through naive phage display. Panning a phage library with a diversity of 10(9) transormants successfully identified a peptide dodecamer that contains two internal consensus motifs and binds Ras in both the active GTP- and inactive GDP-bound conformations with low micromolar dissociation constants. The dodecamer does not alter the intrinsic GTPase activity of Ras, does not compete for Ras binding to the Ras binding domain of Raf, and does not alter cell viability. This novel Ras ligand has the potential to serve in the development of higher-affinity ligands and chemical tools targeting Ras.
Discovering innate immunity genes using differential display: a story of RNA helicases.

In this review we discuss the current literature for RNA helicases in response to RNA virus infection. We show the use of Differential Display Reverse Transcription PCR methodology (DD) to analyze virus–host interactions and we present current findings in dengue virus-induced gene expression of RNA helicases. J. Cell. Physiol. 209: 636–644, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Differential rates of consolidation of conceptual and stimulus learning following training on an auditory skill

Training-induced improvements on perceptual skills can be attributed to at least two learning types: learning of general aspects of the trained condition (conceptual learning) and learning of specific feature values of the stimulus used in training (stimulus learning). Here we asked whether conceptual and stimulus learning on interaural time difference (ITD) discrimination emerge along different time courses. Conceptual learning was clearly evident 10 h after training, when performance on a target ITD condition was equivalent following training on that condition or on a non-target condition differing only in the stimulus, and was better in both cases than immediately after training. In contrast, stimulus learning emerged 24 h after training. At that time, performance on the target ITD condition was better following target- than non-target training, due to a worsening in performance between 10 and 24 h after non-target training rather than from additional improvements over this time period after target training. Training amount influenced performance immediately, but not 10 or 24 h, after training. Thus, conceptual learning emerged before stimulus learning, and each manifested through different improvement trajectories many hours after training. These results suggest that on ITD discrimination, conceptual learning is consolidated earlier, and with different behavioral consequences, than stimulus learning.
Macroscopic and microscopic surface characterization of a vitamin K1 monolayer on water

Abstract Film pressure and surface potential measurements are used to elucidate chain orientational changes in vitamin K 1 and phytol monolayers during compression and expansion cycles. Second harmonic generation studies on vitamin K 1 show a major reorientation in the quinone head group during compression. In the expanded film, phytol chains are freely rotating and head groups are randomly oriented. Upon compression, the short axis of the quinone head groups orients with a tilt angle of 24° to the surface normal. Molecular interactions may cause the surface potential to change as chains become more nearly vertically oriented.
Influence of lower extremity sensory function on locomotor adaptation following stroke: a review.

Following stroke, people commonly demonstrate locomotor impairments including reduced walking speed and spatiotemporal asymmetry. Rehabilitation programs have been effective in increasing gait spee...
Decreased Stability in Liposomal Suspensions: Accelerated Loss of p-Nitrophenyl Acetate

The goal of this investigation was to determine the reason for the previously reported increase in the rate of hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl acetate to p-nitrophenol in the presence of positively charged liposomes. When this charge was due to incorporation of stearylamine, the rate of loss increased 5- to 10-fold relative to the control buffers. This rate enhancement was accompanied by formation of N-stearylacetamide, an event which was not previously considered. Similar results were obtained with either L-α- or dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine. When the positive charge on the liposomes was conferred by the cetrimonium ion, however, the acceleration was replaced by a reduction in rate together with the absence of amide formation. Separation of the continuous phases from the liposomes provided media which were kinetically equivalent to the control buffers, indicating that rate enhancement and reduction were both due to the liposomal phases. Increasing the pH produced an increase in ester clearance values due to the stearylamine-containing liposomal phase, which is consistent with the formation of free amine, providing increased aminolysis. Although amide formation was also observed in stearylamine suspensions, the rate of p-nitrophenyl acetate loss was much greater in liposomal suspensions. Accelerated loss in the presence of positively charged liposomes is due to the formation of N-stearylacetamide by reaction with stearylamine and not to the positive charge, a hypothesis disproved by use of cetrimonium ion containing liposomes.
THE FIVE-YEAR RECRUITMENT OF MARINE LIFE AFTER THE 1971 SAN FRANCISCO OIL SPILL

ABSTRACT On January 18, 1971, two Standard Oil tankers collided underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, releasing about 840,000 gallons of Bunker C fuel. An estimated 4.2 million to 7.5 million intertidal invertebrates, chiefly barnacles, were smothered by the oil. Five-year observations of marine life recruitment following the spill indicate that population densities of some marine species have significantly increased in the San Francisco Bay area intertidal zones at Sausalito and Duxbury Reef. With some fluctuations, the barnacles Balanus glandula and Chthamalus dalli have increased from July 1971 to May 1976—from 93 to 189 barnacles per dm2 at Sausalito and from nine to 34 per dm2 at Duxbury Reef. The large bed of mussels, Mytilus californianus, showed a steady rise from 5.9/m2 in April 1971 to 14.0/dm2 in July 1976. The density of mobile organisms, such as limpets, snails, crabs, and starfish, all show cyclical variations; some show an overall increase. The limpets, Collisella spp., which suffered high mor...
Identification and DNA sequence of fixZ, a nifB-like gene from Rhizobium leguminosarum.

Abstract Previously, several mutants which nodulated peas but which failed to fix nitrogen were isolated following Tn5 mutagenesis of pRL 1JI, a symbiotic plasmid of Rhizobium leguminosarum. Two of these alleles, fix52::Tn5 and fix137::Tn5 were in a region of pRL 1JI which hybridized to a probe that contained the nifA gene and the amino-terminal region of the nifB gene of Klebsiella pneumoniae. The nitrogen fixation defect of the fix52::Tn5 mutant strain was corrected by a 2.0kb fragment of the corresponding wild-type DNA cloned in a wide host-range plasmid. The DNA sequence of this region revealed an open reading frame corresponding to the gene within which the fix52::Tn5 allele was located. The polypeptide corresponding to this open reading frame had a deduced molecular weight of 39,936 and the gene was termed fixZ. The deduced amino acid sequence of the fixZ gene product contained two clusters of cysteine residues, suggesting that the protein may contain an iron-sulphur cluster. The sequence of the fixZ polypeptide was very similar to the sequence of the K. pneumoniae nifB gene (provided by W. Arnold and A. Puhler) which is required for the synthesis of the FeMo-cofactor of nitrogenase. It was shown that the previously observed hybridization was due to homology between the amino terminal regions of fixZ and nifB. Upstream from fixZ was found another open reading frame whose 5' terminus was not established, but within which was located the fix137::Tn5 allele. This gene was termed fixY. The deduced amino acid sequence of the sequenced part of fixY showed similarity to that of the regulatory nifA gene of K. pneumoniae (provided by W. J. Buikema and F. M. Ausubel). Thus in R. leguminoarum the fix genes that correspond to the nifA and nifB genes are in the same relative orientation as in K. pneumoniae.
Desiccant Degradation in Desiccant Cooling Systems: An Experimental Study

The authors conducted experiments to quantify the effects of thermal cycling and exposure to contamination on solid desiccant materials that may be used in desiccant cooling systems. The source of contamination was cigarette smoke, which is considered one of the worst pollutants in building cooling applications. The authors exposed five different solid desiccants to ``ambient`` and ``contaminated`` humid air: silica gel, activated alumina, activated carbon, molecular sieves, and lithium chloride. They obtained the moisture capacity of samples as a function of exposure time. Compared to virgin desiccant samples, the capacity loss caused by thermal cycling with humid ambient air was 10 percent to 30 percent for all desiccants. The capacity loss because of combined effect of thermal cycling with ``smoke-filled`` humid air was between 30 percent to 70 percent. The higher losses occurred after four months of experiment time, which is equivalent to four to eight years of field operation. Using a system model and smoke degradation data on silica gel, the authors predicted that, for low-temperature regeneration, the loss in performance of a ventilation-cycle desiccant cooling system would be between 10 percent to 35 percent, in about eight years, with higher value under worst conditions.
AP-1 mediated transcriptional repression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 by recruitment of histone deacetylase 1 in response to interferon β.

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is a 92 kDa zinc-dependant endopeptidase that degrades components of the extracellular matrix. Increased expression of MMP-9 is implicated in many pathological conditions including metastatic cancer, multiple sclerosis, and atherosclerosis. Although it has been widely noted that interferon-β (IFNβ) downregulates both the basal and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced MMP-9 expression at the transcriptional level, the molecular mechanism of this repression is poorly understood. In the present study we identify a novel mechanism for repression of MMP-9 transcription by IFNβ in HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells. Using reporter assays with promoter deletion constructs we show that IFNβ’s inhibitory effects require a region of the promoter between −154 and −72, which contains an AP-1 binding site. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) studies indicate that IFNβ increases histone deacetylase (HDAC)-1 recruitment to the MMP-9 promoter and reduces histone H3 acetylation, in addition to reduced NF-κB recruitment. ChIP analysis shows that IFNβ induced HDAC1 recruitment to the MMP-9 promoter and IFNβ mediated transcriptional repression is lost when the AP-1 binding site is inactivated by a point mutation. Altogether, our results establish that the repression of MMP-9 transcription in response to IFNβ occurs by the recruitment of HDAC1 via the proximal AP-1 binding site.
Evasion of intracellular host defence by hepatitis C virus

Viral infection of mammalian cells rapidly triggers intracellular signalling events leading to interferon alpha/beta production and a cellular antiviral state. This 'host response' is our first line of immune defence against infection as it imposes several barriers to viral replication and spread. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) evades the host response through a complex combination of processes that include signalling interference, effector modulation and continual viral genetic variation. These evasion strategies support persistent infection and the spread of HCV. Defining the molecular mechanisms by which HCV regulates the host response is of crucial importance and may reveal targets for novel therapeutic strategies.
Basing Cybersecurity Training on User Perceptions

The authors investigated users' understanding of online security by conducting in-depth interviews to identify correct perceptions, myths, and potential misperceptions. Participants were aware of and concerned with online and computer security but lacked a complete skill set to protect their computer systems, identities, and information online.
A near-IR transmitting “black glass” synthesized from 70%TeO 2 -25%ZnO-5%ZnS

A new type of tellurite glass has been synthesized with composition 70%TeO 2 -25%ZnO-5%ZnS. The glass is of black color, indicating a high absorption in the visible range. However, transmittance measurements show the same glass to be transmitting in the near-IR range, between 2µm and 6µm. XPS data reveal the existence of Zn-O-S and a reduction of tellurium oxide with formation of Te-Te bonds in the glass. Our preliminary experiments indicate an increased third-order susceptibility χ(3) at 1.5µm.
Dissociation of heat shock proteins expression with ischemic tolerance by whole body hyperthermia in rat heart.

Heat shock (HS) results in the expression of heat shock proteins (hsp) and confers tolerance against subsequent ischemic injury. We examined the extent of myocardial protectionin vivo, and determined the level of hsp expression induced by HS as a function of time. Anesthetized rats were subjected to HS by raising core temperature to 42°C for 15 min and they were then allowed to recover from 2 to 30 h (n=8–11 for each time point). At the appropriate time, animals were subjected to 30 min of ischemia via ligation of the LAD, followed by 90 min of reperfusion. Infarct size was determined by tetrazolium staining and hsp expression was assessed by Western blots. Following ischemia/reperfusion, the infarct sizes (% risk area) were 51.3±3.7, 41.0±7.7, 48.0±6.9 after 2, 4 and 12 h of HS, which were not significantly different from 39.2±2.75 in non heat-shocked animals (P>0.05). In contrast, the infarct size was reduced significantly to 11.0±3.1% in 24 h HS group (P 80% of maximum within 4 h of initial insult and peaked by 12 h, whereas the protective effect of HS was absent at these time points. We conclude that ischemic tolerance afforded by HS cannot be solely explained on the basis of hsp expression, and may be dependent on factors such as post-translational modifications, translocation of hsps or some other as yet unidentified factors.
Lipids of the cottonseed. III. Perchloric acid ashing of lipids for the determination of phosphorus

1. Cottonseed oil is effectively oxidized with a mixture of perchloric and nitric acids in connection with the determination of phosphorus by the Fisk and Subbarow method. 2. The development of the molybdenum blue in the procedure is independent of the acid content in the reducing medium up to 0.5 normal. 3. The presence of perchloric acid does not interfere with the development of the molybdenum blue. 4. The phosphorus content of cottonseed extracts depends on the nature of the solvent. The quantities obtained varied from 0.0071 to 0.117%. 5. A phospholipid containing 3.73% phosphorus was isolated from cottonseed.
A quantitative systematic review of the efficacy of mobile phone interventions to improve medication adherence

Aims To evaluate the characteristics and efficacy of mobile phone interventions to improve medication adherence. Secondary aims are to explore participants’ acceptability and satisfaction with mobile phone interventions and to evaluate the selected studies in terms of study rigour, impact, cost and resource feasibility, generalizability and implications for nursing practice and research. Background Medication non-adherence is a major global challenge. Mobile phones are the most commonly used form of technology worldwide and have the potential to promote medication adherence. Design Guidelines from the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination were followed for this systematic review. Data Sources A comprehensive search of databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Google Chrome and Cochrane) and bibliographies from related articles was performed from January 2002–January 2013 to identify the included studies. Review Methods A quantitative systematic review without meta-analysis was conducted and the selected studies were critically evaluated to extract and summarize pertinent characteristics and outcomes. Results The literature search produced 29 quantitative research studies related to mobile phones and medication adherence. The studies were conducted for prevention purposes as well as management of acute and chronic illnesses. All of the studies used text messaging. Eighteen studies found significant improvement in medication adherence. Conclusion While the majority of investigators found improvement in medication adherence, long-term studies characterized by rigorous research methodologies, appropriate statistical and economic analyses and the test of theory-based interventions are needed to determine the efficacy of mobile phones to influence medication adherence.
Semantic metrics through error flow analysis

Abstract Error flow analysis of a computer program derives information about how potential data state errors may arise and propagate as the program executes. This information can be used to measure the semantic effects on an execution path caused by changing statements along the path. A dynamic style of error flow analysis is defined and a system for performing this analysis called Dynamic Error Flow Analysis (DEFA) is described. Examples of several semantic metrics produced by running DEFA are given.
Multivariable function generation by diode switching

This paper outlines the procedure for designing a nonincremental diode function generator. It empha sizes the practical aspects of designing circuits for generating line segments and chamfering their inter sections. Methods for optimizing diode logic include reduction to two stages and reduction by lattice theory. The first of these is outlined and its practical limitations are noted. Both methods are illustrated by a problem in radiation therapy which was actually executed on an analog computer.
Enhanced expression of CYP1B1 in Escherichia coli

Conditions for the optimal expression of the human CYP1B1 hemoprotein in Escherichia coli have been investigated. CYP1B1 cDNA was prepared from a retinal cDNA template and used to generate cDNA fragments with modified 5'-sequences reported to allow enhanced expression in E. coli DH5alpha. Plasmids were constructed, using the pCWori+ expression vector and were used to examine necessity for thiamine, delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA), and IPTG. The optimal shaking speed in an orbital incubator was 150 rpm at 30 degrees C. Higher speeds resulted in increased cell death and lower speeds resulted in lower expression of cytochrome P450. IPTG was necessary for this expression system, which makes use of the lac repressor, but levels above 0.5 mM were without additional benefit. We were able to show thiamine to be unnecessary in this expression system, although included by others expressing CYP1B1. ALA has been reported to enhance expression of several different forms of cytochrome P450. We examined the dependence of CYP1B1 expression on ALA. The expression proved to be highly dependent upon this heme precursor, with levels of CYP1B1 increasing approximately 20-fold, to 920 nmol/l in the presence of up to 2.5 mM ALA. The question of whether heme synthesis and apoprotein synthesis were coupled was then investigated. It could be shown that although heme synthesis was not limiting (CYP101 holoenzyme expression in the absence of ALA was four times higher than the ALA-supported CYP1B1 holoenzyme expression), it was necessary for optimal expression of CYP1B1. CYP1B1 protein synthesis appears to be coupled to heme precursor availability, as seen by SDS-PAGE, because in the absence of heme precursor apocytochrome P450 1B1 does not accumulate.
Continuing Care of Multiorgan Donor Patients

Preserving the optimal function of donor organs must be the primary goal of physicians caring for patients who have been certified brain dead and from whom organs will be transplanted. During the hours before organ removal, several significant medical challenges may emerge. These challenges include restoration and maintenance of intravascular volume and cardiac output to assure adequate oxygen delivery to donor tissue; re suscitation of the patient from spontaneous cardiac ar rest ; evaluation and reversal of polyuria; management of poikilothermia and the effects of hypothermia; and treat ment of hypopituitarism and other possible changes in circulating hormones. Individual organ function and the interdependency among donor organs must be carefully monitored and balanced to assure that the recipient re ceives organs that have the best opportunity for optimal primary function. Care of the multiorgan brain dead pa tient and his or her family requires a multidisciplinary team skilled not only in the medical ...
Evaluation of thyrotropin-releasing hormone as a potential antidepressant agent in the conscious dog.

Abstract Results from preliminary clinical reports have indicated that thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) produces improvement in depressed patients. In the present study, doses of TRH at least 25 times greater than those reported as clinically effective on a mg/kg basis were evaluated for antidepressant activity in the conscious dog. Clinically effective antidepressants, such as MAO inhibitors and tricyclics like imipramine, potentiate certain behavioral, autonomic, and cardiovascular responses produced by the indole alkaloid yohimbine, whereas general CNS stimulants such as amphetamine or cocaine do not potentiate these responses. Both 50 and 100 ug/kg doses of TRH failed to potentiate yohimbine effects. Certain gross similarities in effects produced by TRH and amphetamine observed in this study support the view that beneficial effects of TRH in depression may be related to general sympathetic activation produced by this hormone.
An online residential cooling load calculation program

This paper presents an online interactive program and how it can benefit students of engineering and architecture in the learning of residential cooling load calculation. This program is also helpful in the training of professional engineers and architects in the basic load calculations. It can be used as a stand-alone teaching aid or an add-on component for any online course dealing with air-conditioning or architectural design. The implementation of this online load calculation program has greatly enhanced the learning experience of our students in the study of air-conditioning systems and the design of energy-efficient buildings. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 12: 269–280, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20019
Reperfused myocardial infarctions on T1- and susceptibility-enhanced MRI: evidence for loss of compartmentalization of contrast media.

The purpose of this study was to characterize the contrast caused by a susceptibility MRI contrast agents, on spin echo T2-weighted imaging of reperfused myocardial infarction. Our interest in this model focused on the expected requirement that such agents be compartmentalized in the tissue to cause signal loss on spin echo images, a condition which may not be present in reperfused infarcted myocardium. Accordingly, nine rats were subjected to 2 h of left coronary artery occlusion followed by 3 ± 0.5 h of reperfusion prior to administration of contrast media. Three sets of MR images were acquired: (a) baseline axial images at the midventricle, both T1-weighted (TR/TE = 300/20) and T2-weighted (TR/TE = 1500/60); (b) T1-weighted images after administering a T1-enhancing agent, Gd-DTPA-BMA (0.2 mmol/kg), to document that contrast media is delivered to the reperfused infarction; and (c) T2-weighted images after administering the susceptibility agent, Dy-DTPA-BMA (1.0 mmol/kg). Gadolinium-enhanced T1 images depicted reperfused infarction as regions with greatly enhanced signal intensity compared with unin-farcted myocardium, indicating that contrast agent was delivered to the infarcted zone. Dysprosium-enhanced T1 images depicted the injury as a region of persistent signal intensity relative to depletion of signal in normal myocardium, consistent with failure of the contrast agent to cause signal loss. Similar infarction sizes were observed for unenhanced T2-weighted images (33 ± 5%), gadolinium-enhanced T1 weighted images (36 ± 5%) and postmortem staining (30 ± 6%); strong correlations (r > 0.9) were noted in comparisons of these data. Dysprosium-enhanced images exhibited a smaller region of differential signal presumed to be infarction (20 ± 5%, P < 0.05) and weak correlations (r < 0.75) with the other measurements. We conclude that the smaller infarction depicted on dysprosium-enhanced images is a subregion of the true infarction in which myocardial necrosis is sufficiently advanced that the agent is homogeneously distributed throughout all tissue compartments, preventing T2*-dependent phase loss on spin echo images.
An Empirical Model for the Prediction of Hemodialysis System Performance

The examination of steady state behavior of hemodialysis treatment using the analytical model created by Olson et al. revealed that for each set of hemodialysis conditions, a fixed time constant exists that dictates how quickly the patient’s waste level cycle reaches a steady state condition. They also revealed that initial waste level does not affect the final steady state waste level. In this study, an empirical model for the time constant and the final steady state maximum waste level were found that lumps hemodialysis inputs such as flow rates, dialyzer properties, and patient waste generation by conducting a parametric study on a previous hemodialysis model from Olson et al. [1] The empirical model is validated by comparing the curve that predicts how the peak waste level of each cycle changes over time with the analytical model’s results. For all the tested input values which cover most of practical hemodialysis treatments, the curve closely matched the numerical model’s results with R2 value higher than .9973. The empirical model created in this study provides a much simpler prediction method without the use of complex numerical simulations. In addition, the Olson model cannot be used to run an inverse simulation to determine optimal inputs for desired outputs. This limitation is overcome by our empirical model, which further allows much easier and more extended exploration of different therapies (dose length and schedule) for both doctors and renal replacement system designers.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Manipulating superconducting fluctuations by the Little–Parks–de Gennes effect in ultrasmall Al loops

The destruction of superconducting phase coherence by quantum fluctuations and the control of these fluctuations are a problem of long-standing interest, with recent impetus provided by the relevance of these issues to the pursuit of high temperature superconductivity. Building on the work of Little and Parks, de Gennes predicted more than three decades ago that superconductivity could be destroyed near half-integer-flux quanta in ultrasmall loops, resulting in a destructive regime, and restored by adding a superconducting side branch, which does not affect the flux quantization condition. We report the experimental observation of this Little–Parks–de Gennes effect in Al loops prepared by advanced e-beam lithography. We show that the effect can be used to restore the lost phase coherence by employing side branches.
Effects of chronic herbivory and historic land use on population structure of a forest perennial, Trillium catesbaei

ABSTRACT Question: How have long-term herbivory and past land use impacted the population structure of Trillium catesbaei, a long-lived rhizomatous herb? Location: Western Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA. Methods: We examined T. catesbaei populations at three sites: (1) Cades Cove (CC), an area of intensive historic land use that has been maintained as open fields and woodlots with a history of chronic deer herbivory, (2) Whiteoak Sink (WOS), a reference area with similar land-use history, geology, and soils that has succeeded to closed-canopy forest with relatively low levels of deer herbivory, and (3) Leadbetter Ridge (LBR), an area of primary forest that has never received significant anthropogenic disturbance. Trillium catesbaei is the most common Trillium species at the three study sites, but smaller in stature, shorter lived, and more of a habitat generalist. Results: Chronic herbivory in CC has created a highly-truncated age structure with no plants older than 9 years, while pla...
Sloughing of corneal epithelium and wound healing complications associated with laser in situ keratomileusis in patients with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy

Abstract PURPOSE: To report sloughing of corneal epithelium during laser in situ keratomileusis and subsequent wound healing complications in patients with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy. METHODS: In a retrospective study, the surgical procedures, postoperative course, and visual acuities of 16 eyes of nine patients with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy who underwent laser in situ keratomileusis complicated with epithelial sloughing at three centers were reviewed. The mean follow-up period was 23 weeks (range, 4 to 52 weeks). RESULTS: In 13 (81%) of 16 eyes with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy, epithelial sloughing occurred during laser in situ keratomileusis. In eight of the 13 eyes, epithelial growth beneath the flap was observed. The flap was lifted and the interface epithelium scraped in six eyes. Flap melt or keratolysis occurred in four eyes. At the last follow-up visit, 13 of 16 eyes had an uncorrected visual acuity of 20/30 or better, and all eyes had a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/30 or better. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy have poorly adherent corneal epithelium and are predisposed to epithelial sloughing during the microkeratome pass of laser in situ keratomileusis. This may lead to flap distortion, interface epithelial growth, flap keratolysis, and corneal scarring. It is not recommended that laser in situ keratomileusis be performed in patients with classic, symptomatic epithelial basement membrane dystrophy. In patients who present with mild and asymptomatic epithelial basement membrane dystrophy, laser in situ keratomileusis should be performed with caution, or photorefractive keratectomy may be the preferred refractive procedure.
Cytochrome P450-derived renal HETEs: Storage and release

Cytochrome P450-derived renal HETEs: Storage and release. We have established an assay based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to profile and quantitate endogenous cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (P450)- hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs) exiting the isolated perfused rabbit kidney in response to hormonal stimulation. In response to angiotensin II (Ang II) P450-derived HETEs (16-, 17-, 18-, 19- and 20-) are released from the isolated Kreb's perfused rabbit kidney. Ang II produced a several-fold increase in the levels of P450-HETEs above basal levels in both urinary (such as for 20-HETE from 0.93 ± 0.7 to 2.31 ± 0.9 ng/min) and venous (from 0.1 ± 0.05 to 0.3 ± 0.05 ng/min) effluents. However, inhibition of P450, which reduced basal release, did not prevent Ang -induced release of P450-AA products from the rabbit kidney; for example, urinary 20-HETE in the presence of 17-ODYA (1 µ g) was undetectable and increased to 0.93 ± 0.4 ng/min with Ang II and venous 20-HETE increased from 0.06 ± 0.03 to 0.24 ± 0.07 ng/min. Similar results were obtained with clotrimazole (1 µ g). As 16-, 18-, 19- and 20-HETEs are vasodilators in the rabbit kidney and 16- and 17-HETEs inhibit proximal tubular ATPase activity, we investigated their possible sites of esterification. Cortical and medullary lipids were extracted, separated by HPLC and P450-HETEs quantitated following alkaline hydrolysis. The P450-HETEs were incorporated into both neutral lipids (NL) and phospholipids [phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidyl-inositol (PI), phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylcholine (PC)]. However, the assignment of a HETE to a specific phospholipid pool must be regarded as tentative as the appropriate standards containing P450-HETEs in the Sn-2 position (such as 20-HETE-PE, 20-HETE-PC, etc.) were not available. Esterified HETEs were found in larger quantities in the cortex as compared to the medulla (34.40 ±1.12 versus 22.76 ± 0.53 ng/g). The PI fraction in the cortex yielded the largest quantity of HETEs and the PC fraction the lowest. In the medulla, the largest quantities of esterified HETEs were found in neutral lipids and only slightly lesser amounts in PE and PI. Esterified 18-HETE was localized only to the NL fraction. This fraction also contained the other HETEs, 19- and 20-HETE being the most abundant. Notably, only 16- and 17-HETE were present in PE, whereas, 19- and 20-HETE were also present in PI, PS and PC. Thus, P450-HETEs, like EETs, are stored in the kidney and are, presumably, subject to release by peptide activation of acylhydrolases.
Dendritic deposition of aerosol particles in fibrous media by inertial impaction and interception

Abstract When an aerosol of fine solid particles flows through a fibrous filter, particles deposit on fibers and form chainlike agglomerates known as dendrites (see for instance, Fig. 1). These dendritic structures grow relatively unhindered for an initial period of time, but eventually they begin to interfere with each other's growth and to intermesh (Fig. 2). This pattern of deposition has profound effects on the filtration efficiency and pressure drop, both of which increase rapidly with time. Therefore, rational design, optimization, operation, troubleshooting and innovation require intimate understanding and accurate analysis of the dendritic deposition process. A theoretical model of dendritic deposition for the period during which dendrites do not intermesh was developed by Payatakes [1], subject to the assumption that interception is the dominant capture mechanism. In the present work the model is extended to include deposition by inertial impaction and interception, mechanisms which are dominant for particles larger than about 1 μm. The “shadow effect” is also incorporated in the analysis.
Oracles, Trauma, and the Limits of Contextualization: Naming the Witch in Contemporary Kenya

Abstract This article revisits Terence Ranger’s call for scholars of the occult in Africa to better historicize, contextualize, and disaggregate the subject. I argue that Ranger’s imperative fails to define what type of object of study the occult is and take seriously the ‘aggregation’ of the occult as an empirical ethnographic fact. I suggest that ‘the occult’ is often experienced as both a proliferating series of oracular institutions for contending with feelings of affliction, and as invisible forces whose origin and nature are compound. I turn to James Siegel’s work on witchcraft to bring attention to the experiential dimension of the occult, and provide an extended ethnographic account of a moment in which the source, nature, and means of redress of an individual’s occult affliction cannot be determined. I argue, in line with Siegel, that historicization and contextualization, while important, risk denaturing the occult and impairing our understanding of its persistence.
Calibration algorithm for eyetracking with unrestricted head movement.

This article reports a calibration procedure that enables researchers to track movements of the eye while allowing relatively unrestricted head and/or body movement. The eye—head calibration algorithm calculates fixation point based on eye-position data acquired by a head-mounted eyetracker and corresponding head-position data acquired by a 3-D motion-tracking system. In a single experiment, we show that this procedure provides robust eye-position estimates while allowing free head movement. Although several companies offer ready-made systems for this purpose, there is no literature available that makes it possible for researchers to explore the details of the calibration procedures used by these systems. By making such details available, we hope to facilitate the development of cost-effective, nonproprietary eyetracking solutions.
Sedimentology of Ancient Saline Pans: An Example from the Permian Opeche Shale, Williston Basin, North Dakota, U.S.A.

ABSTRACT The mid-Permian Opeche Shale of North Dakota consists of bedded evaporites and red-bed siliciclastics. Detailed core and petrographic study has documented sedimentary and early diagenetic features in order to develop a depositional model, and to refine paleoclimatic data and paleogeographic setting for the late Paleozoic of the U.S. midcontinent. Lithologies and sedimentary features indicate lacustrine, distal alluvial, and minor eolian deposition, subaerial exposure, and soil formation. Bedded halites consisting of chevron and cumulate crystals, dissolution surfaces and pipes, and mudcracked microcrystalline salt crusts were deposited in a saline pan dominated by flooding, evaporative concentration, and desiccation. Bedded halites containing chevron and cumulate crystals but lacking any dissolution or desiccation features formed in perennial saline lakes. Chaotic halite, composed of red mudstone and siltstone with displacive halite crystals, represents saline mudflat deposits. Red mudstone and siltstone with little or no displacive halite but with abundant cracks and root features suggest deposition in a dry mudflat. Red-bed sandstones and conglomerates, composed of poorly sorted, subrounded quartz grains cemented with halite indicate distal alluvial deposition with possible transport by ephemeral streams, sheet floods, and debris flows. Most deposition took place in halite-dominated shallow perennial and ephemeral saline lakes surrounded by saline and dry mudflats. Evaporation, desiccation, flooding, and wind played significant roles in this environment. Therefore, the Opeche evaporites and red beds are representative of an ancient saline pan system. An inland playa setting is favored as a depositional model for the Opeche Shale. The abundance of soil features and halite dominance, as well as lack of nearshore carbonates and lack of restricted marine fossils, suggest a closed-basin nonmarine setting for the mid Permian of the U.S. midcontinent.
Semi-Supervised Fisher Linear Discriminant (SFLD)

Supervised learning uses a training set of labeled examples to compute a classifier which is a mapping from feature vectors to class labels. The success of a learning algorithm is evaluated by its ability to generalize, i.e., to extend this mapping accurately to new data that is commonly referred to as the test data. Good generalization depends crucially on the quality of the training set. Because collecting labeled data is laborious, training sets are typically small. Furthermore, it is often difficult to represent all possible observation scenarios during training, so that the statistics of the training set end up differing from those of the test data, a problem known as the sample selection bias. To address sample selection bias, we introduce a Semi-Supervised Fisher Linear Discriminant (SFLD) that utilizes additional, unlabeled data to improve generalization for both small and biased training sets. We characterize the conditions under which SFLD helps, and illustrate its benefits through experiments on digit and car recognition applications.
Hardware synthesis from C/C++ models

Software programming languages, such as C/C++, have been used as means for specifying hardware for quite a while. Different design methodologies have exploited the advantages of flexibility and fast simulation of models described with programming languages. At the same time, the mismatch (of software languages) in expressing power (for hardware systems) has caused several difficulties. In the recent past, novel approaches have helped in reducing the semantic gap, and in easing the creation of design flows that support system-level specifications in C/C++.
Activity Measurements Support Dimensional Assessment

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual approach to motor excess has been to treat it as a categorical variable whose presence functions as an inclusion criterion. Motor excess is thought to occur primarily during structured settings that maximize attentional demands. Activity is rarely measured as a dimensional attribute despite availability of a wide variety of suitable instruments for more than a decade (Tryon, 1985). The present study measured activity using electronic step counters in structured and unstructured school settings, commuting from home to school and back home, and at home for 2 consecutive weeks in 60 children selected from 450 children using Factor IV (hyperactivity) scores from the Conners Teacher Rating Scale to represent three levels of hyperactivity. Results indicate that (a) children rated as hyperactive are measurably more active than children rated as normally active in unstructured as well as structured situations, (b) measured activity correlates consistently and substantially with rated activity in unstructured and structured situations, and (c) a single activity factor characterizes measured activity in all situations except for class transitions during school. These results and other published findings support a quantitative (dimensional) rather than qualitative (categorical) approach to motor excess.
Images of the Merovingians and Carolingians

For over a millennium, the perception of the role and achievements of the Merovingian and Carolingian dynasties, those that ruled the Franks from the mid-fifth to the late tenth century, was heavily shaped by writers working at the Carolingian court. These publicists sought to establish that the previous dynasty was made up of uncivilized incompetents, in strong contrast to their own ruling dynasty. Recently historians have begun examining this characterization not as a simple description of fact but rather as part of a conscious ninth-century plan to glorify the Carolingians. The Merovingians are now seen less as barbarians and more as Romanized Christians. Although historians do not denigrate the quite real Carolingian achievements, they are now analyzing the many models, from the kings of ancient Israel to the Caesars, to which the emperors were compared by their publicists.
Faith, Morality and Mortality: The Ecological Impact of Religion on Population Health

Although the past decade has witnessed increased usage of ecological data to map the community-level effects of religion, the vast majority of studies in this body of scholarship continue to be plagued by two key shortcomings. First, ecological research on religion is often conducted in an atheoretical manner, one that privileges the structural character of religion while failing to demonstrate sensitivity to the substance of collectively held religious beliefs and values. Second, ecological scholarship often employs crude methodological techniques that overlook noteworthy distinctions within large religious collectivities (e.g., variants of conservative Protestantism, Catholicism and Judaism). This study charts new theoretical and methodological directions in the use of ecological data by exploring the complex linkages between religious ecology and mortality in the United States. We hypothesize that the other-worldly theology and individualistic orientation found in conservative Protestantism dampens this faith tradition's commitment to population health, thereby leading to demonstrably different outcomes in mortality by denominational families. Also, drawing on previous work that criticizes the "monolithic bloc" depiction of conservative Protestantism, we hypothesize that important distinctions in mortality will be found when sub-groups of conservative Protestants (evangelicals, Pentecostals and fundamentalists) are compared because each of these factions exhibits distinct degrees of other-worldliness. Using restricted county-level data from the National Center for Health Statistics and 2000 Churches and Church Congregations data, we observe noteworthy religious differences in mortality, thereby underscoring a need for the development of more sophisticated theoretical and methodological approaches to the ecological study of religion. Ecological researchers are encouraged to take seriously the content of collectively held religious beliefs and exhibit sensitivity toward the distinctive worldviews that hold sway within particular faith traditions.