cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of beta-lactamase reporter gene expression by flow cytometry.

Background: Flow cytometry of gene expression in living cells requires accurate, sensitive, nontoxic fluorescent indicators capable of detecting transcription of specific genes. This is typically achieved by using genes that encode fluorescent proteins or enzymes coupled to promoters of interest. The most commonly used reporters are green fluorescent protein and β-galactosidase (lacZ). In this study, we characterized the performance of a cell-permeant, ratiometric, β-lactamase substrate, coumarin cephalosporin fluorescein (CCF2/AM). We compared its characteristics with that of the β-galactosidase/fluorescein di-β-D-galactopyranoside reporter system. Methods: Jurkat cell lines were generated for β-lactamase and β-galactosidase reporters with the use of similar plasmid constructs. Rare event flow cytometric detection for the β-galactosidase and β-lactamase reporters were assayed by using mixed populations of negative (WT) and positive (constitutively expressing) cells for each reporter. To determine sensitivity at low reporter copy number, we measured the activity of an unstimulated inducible promoter and detected positive events as a function of substrate incubation time. Technical issues related to data processing and optical configuration are also presented. Results: The low population coefficients of variation afforded by ratiometric detection of the β-lactamase system improved the statistical performance of the assay in comparison with a single-dye, intensity-based assay, leading to markedly improved detection for low copy number and rare events. At low levels of gene expression, β-lactamase was detected with approximately 10-fold higher confidence than was β-galactosidase. In rare event detection experiments, cells expressing high levels of β-lactamase proteins were reliably detected at frequencies of 1:106 compared with about 1:104 for β-galactosidase. Conclusion: The ratiometric fluorescence readout of the β-lactamase system based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer allowed more sensitive and accurate detection of gene expression than the currently available β-galactosidase substrates. Further, the cell-permeant nature of the substrate improved experimental convenience. These properties facilitated cell engineering and enabled a variety of applications including selection of rare cells from large populations and measurement of low-expressing or downregulated genes. Cytometry Part A 51A:68–78, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Institutional and personal sources of manuscripts in the Journal of Vocational Behavior, 1971–1978

Abstract Both personal and institutional sources of authorship of manuscripts published in Vols. 1 through 13 of the Journal of Vocational Behavior (1971–1978) are traced in this article. The top 21 personal contributors to the journal, their present affiliations, and their institutions of graduate training are summarized. In addition data are presented on the sources of manuscripts from the top 27 institutional contributors. Unlike previous research in the Journal of Counseling Psychology , the most frequent institutional contributors are not located in the Midwest, although Midwestern universities were the predominant graduate schools of origin for the top 21 authors. It is also apparent that institutions, as well as authors, who constitute the major contributors to the Journal of Vocational Behavior are closely allied to what have been for some years the institutions of strongest identification with counseling and vocational psychology.
Measurement of radioactivity in Arizona groundwater using improved analytical techniques for samples with high dissolved solids.

Radiochemical analyses of 667 samples collected over the 5-y period 1989 to 1993 indicate that approximately 2% of Arizona drinking water supplies from groundwater sources violate current regulatory standards. About 1% of the population is affected. The 1996 change in regulatory requirements will bring some Arizona water systems into compliance through {sup 226}Ra limit relaxation, while others will become noncompliant due to new limits on uranium levels. Maximum concentrations in Arizona of adjusted gross alpha, gross beta, and {sup 226}Ra activities are higher than levels found in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency`s national survey. Sampling results show a correlation between radionuclide concentration and localized geology. Improved radiochemical methods are described that result in greater accuracy and sensitivity for samples high in dissolved solids, as are typical in Arizona. 37 refs., 5 figs., 4 tabs.
Hamiltonian for a restricted isoenergetic thermostat

Nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations often use mechanisms called thermostats to regulate the temperature. A Hamiltonian is presented for the case of the isoenergetic (constant internal energy) thermostat corresponding to a tunable isokinetic (constant kinetic energy) thermostat, for which a Hamiltonian has recently been given.
Pyloric stenosis in the racial groups of Hawaii.

Two hundred and seven infants with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis were studied to determine the incidence of the disease among 196,052 Caucasian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Puerto Rican, and Korean live births in Hawaii from 1942 to 1966. The incidences per 1,000 live births among these groups are: Caucasian, 1.9±0.2; Japanese, 0.52±0.08; Puerto Rican, 1.0±0.5; Korean, 0.8±0.8; and Filipino, 0.09±0.06. Of interest is the absence of this lesion in 11,274 Chinese infants.
What is Hospital at Home? Could Hospital at Home be a feasible option for acutely unwell paediatric patients?

Hospital at Home (HAH) care, where acutely unwell patients are treated at home is widely accepted across the world as a cost effective alternative to inpatient care for specific adult groups. HAH is utilised for the paediatric population in many countries although it is not a service routinely offered in the UK. This review investigates whether HAH care could be an acceptable and cost effective option for acutely unwell paediatric patients in the UK.
A comparative analysis of reference price models

The effect of reference price on brand choice decisions has been well documented in the literature. Researchers, however, have differed in their conceptualizations and, therefore, in their modeling of reference price. In this article, we evaluate five alternative models of reference price of which two are stimulus based (i.e., based on information available at the point-of-purchase) and three that are memory based (i.e., based on price history and/or other contextual factors). We calibrate the models using scanner panel data for peanut butter, liquid detergent, ground coffee, and tissue. To account for heterogeneity in model parameters, we employ a latent class approach and select the best segmentation scheme for each model. The best model of reference price is then selected on the basis of fit and prediction, as well as on the basis of parsimony in cases where the fits of the models are not very different. In all four categories, we find that the best reference price model is a memory-based model, namely, one that is based on the brand's own price history. In the liquid detergent category, however, we find that one of the stimulus-based models, namely, the current price of a previously chosen brand, also performs fairly well. We discuss the implications of these findings.
Balancing Mathematics Education Research and the NCTM Standards

The release of the Principles and Standards for School Mathematics in the United States by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) brought to the forefront the debate of whether research should determine the validity of the espoused Standards? Or conversely whether the Standards should influence the research agenda of the mathematics education community? How should university teacher educators address this issue? Should pre-service and practicing teachers blindly, accept the Standards as well as the research, or do we cultivate the critical thinking skills that will allow preparing teachers to resolve this dilemma? In this article a university mathematics educator and an idealistic pre-service elementary teacher try to resolve the dilemma of balancing the Standards with research and personal beliefs about the teaching and learning of mathematics.
The response of palladium metal-insulator-semiconductor devices to hydrogen–oxygen mixtures: comparisons between kinetic models and experiment

Abstract The operation of hydrogen-sensitive metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) devices in the presence of oxygen is described using a detailed model of the surface and interface kinetics. The solution methods developed here build on existing models by considering adsorbed oxygenated species in the interaction between atomic hydrogen at the metal-semiconductor interface and the external surface. The net effect of the adsorbed oxygenated species is to increase the amount of interfacial hydrogen predicted to exist within the structure at equilibrium. These theoretical predictions are compared to computed results from a previously existing model; furthermore, both mechanistic models are analyzed in light of new and previously published experimental response trends for MIS devices. Although the two models considered in this work are each found to be useful in understanding some aspects of the response, elementary reaction mechanisms appear to be inadequate for prediction of response curves. The results of these comparisons suggest that the kinetics for operation of MIS sensors in hydrogen–oxygen mixtures are quite complex, and may be strongly morphology-dependent.
Performance of a multiplexed chemical ionization miniature cylindrical ion trap array mass spectrometer

The performance of a multiplexed array of miniature cylindrical ion trap (CIT) mass spectrometers composed of four identical sets of ion source/mass analyzer/detector channels is evaluated. Each miniature cylindrical ion trap (inner radius 2.5 mm) was coupled to an external chemical ionization/electron ionization (CI/EI) source and a miniature (inner diameter 2 mm) electron multiplier. The sample introduction system permits delivery of samples and reagent gases directly into any one or more of the ionization volumes. Experimental conditions were optimized as required for CI to occur in one or more ion volumes. The ion source potential was observed to affect the energy of [M + H]+ ions generated by self-chemical ionization in the external ion sources and, thus, the degree of fragmentation observed in resulting mass spectra. The versatility of this novel instrumentation permits two types of multi-channel experiments. In the first, different samples are analyzed at the same time in identical, parallel channels for high-throughput mass analysis using CI. In the second, the instrument is used for improved specificity in the analysis of a single sample by simultaneous measurements made with multiple methods of ionization, including EI and methane CI in adjacent channels of the instrument.
Status of Quality Assurance Programs in American Hospitals

Quality assurance has rapidly become part of the everyday vocabulary of clinicians, researchers, and administrators in our health care system. It is an idea whose time has come, although it is not a new idea. Dr. Francis Clifton, an 18th century English physician, promoted the basic principles of this process,1 as did Florence Nightingale in the 1860s.2 Dr. Ernest Codman advocated an "end result system of hospital organization"3 in Massachusetts at the turn of this century, an endeavor that eventually led to the formation of the American College of Surgeons and the establishment of the Joint Commission for Accreditation of Hospitals in 1951. Most recently Donabedian,4'5 Berwick,6 and others have pioneered a scholarly approach to health care quality assur-
The Army of Flanders and the Spanish Road, 1567–1659: The Logistics of Spanish Victory and Defeat in the Low Countries' Wars

List of illustrations Preface Preface to the second edition Acknowledgements Notes on spelling and currency Glossary List of abbreviations Introduction: the character of the low countries' wars Part I. Assembling an Army: the Problem of Distance: 1. Mobilization 2. The military corridors of the army of Flanders 3. The Spanish road 4. The high command Part II. Maintaining an Army: the Problem of Resources: 5. The army of Flanders and grand strategy 6. Financial resources 7. Life in the army of Flanders 8. Mutiny 9. Wastage and 'reformation' 10. Demobilization Conclusion: Spain, its enemies and the revolt of the Netherlands Appendices Bibliography Index.
Hereditary deficiency of glucosephosphate isomerase as a cause of nonspherocytic hemolytic anemia.

The molecular heterogeneity of GPI deficiency is demonstrated. All variants studied are different from each other. The clinical picture is characterized by nonspherocytic hemolytic anemia.
Ground-state properties of diamond

The ground-state properties of diamond are investigated using an ab initio density-functional pseudopotential scheme. The calculated equilibrium lattice constant, cohesive energy, and bulk modulus are in excellent agreement with experiment. Unlike Si and Ge, a double hump is found in the valence-electron charge density along the tetrahedral bonds.
Constitutive BR3 receptor signaling in diffuse, large B-cell lymphomas stabilizes nuclear factor-κB-inducing kinase while activating both canonical and alternative nuclear factor-κB pathways

Aberrant nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling has been found to be of particular importance in diffuse, large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cell survival and proliferation. Although the canonical NF-κB signaling pathway has been studied in some detail, activation of the alternative NF-κB pathway in DLBCL is not well characterized. Important insights into the regulation of the alternative NF-κB pathway in B lymphocytes has recently revealed the regulatory importance of the survival kinase NIK (NF-κB–inducing kinase) in genetically engineered murine models. Our studies demonstrate that both the canonical and alternative NF-κB pathways are constitutively activated in DLBCL. We also demonstrate that NIK kinase aberrantly accumulates in DLBCL cells due to constitutive activation of B-cell activation factor (BAFF)–R (BR3) through interaction with autochthonous B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) ligand in DLBCL cells. Activation of BR3 in DLBCL induces recruitment and degradation of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 3, which results in NIK kinase accumulation, IκBα phosphorylation, and NF-κB p100 processing, thereby resulting in continuous activation of both NF-κB pathways in DLBCL cells, leading to autonomous lymphoma cell growth and survival. These results further elucidate mechanisms involved in abnormal NF-κB activation in DLBCL, and should contribute to better future therapeutic approaches for patients with DLBCL.
Moses among the Anthropologists. A Note

Sir Edmund Leach has ranged far in his anthropological interests. As a prime inheritor of the sociological tradition in British anthropology, he has done field work in Burma, Sri Lanka, and Borneo. During the last two decades he has expanded his interests to include a wide variety of cultures and has widened his theoretical vision under the influence of the structuralism of Claude Levi-Strauss. Having studied the Old Testament in a lively and controversial collection of essays published in 1969, he has returned to the text of the Bible in his latest book. The volume includes four essays by Sir Edmund as well as two short chapters by D. Alan Aycock. It is characteristically iconoclastic of Leach that the two have never met, and, while he offers high praise of his co-author, he nevertheless manages in the introduction to criticize one of Aycock's contributions to the book.
Flux growth utilizing the reaction between flux and crucible

Flux growth involves dissolving the components of the target compound in an appropriate flux at high temperatures and then crystallizing under supersaturation controlled by cooling or evaporating the flux. A refractory crucible is generally used to contain the high temperature melt. Moreover, the reaction between the melt and crucible materials can modify the composition of the melt, which typically results in growth failure, or contaminates the crystals. Thus one principle in designing a flux growth is to select suitable flux and crucible materials thus to avoid any reaction between them. In this paper, we review two cases of flux growth in which the reaction between flux and Al2O3 crucible tunes the oxygen content in the melt and helps the crystallization of desired compositions. For the case of La5Pb3O, the Al2O3 crucible oxidizes La to form a passivating La2O3 layer which not only prevents further oxidization of La in the melt but also provides [O] to the melt. Finally, in the case of La0.4Na0.6Fe2As2, it is believed that the Al2O3 crucible reacts with NaAsO2 and the reaction consumes oxygen in the melt thus maintaining an oxygen-free environment.
Exposed cross-sections through the continental crust: implications for crustal structure, petrology, and evolution

Abstract The continental crust is exposed in cross-section at numerous sites on the earth's surface. These exposures, which appear to have formed by obduction along great faults during continental collision, may be recognized by exposures of deep crustal rocks exhibiting asymmetric patterns of metamorphic grade and age across the faults and by distinctive Bouguer anomaly patterns reflecting dipping basement structure and an anomalously deep mantle. From an examination of five complexes which meet these criteria, it is concluded that the most prominent layering in the crust is not compositional but metamorphic. The lower crust consists of granulite facies rocks of mafic to intermediate composition while the intermediate and shallow levels consist predominantly of amphibolite facies gneisses and greenschist facies supracrustal rocks, respectively. Post-metamorphic granitic intrusions are common at intermediate to shallow levels. Position of discontinuities in refraction velocity, where present, commonly correspond to changes in composition or metamorphic grade with depth. The continental crust is characterized by lateral and vertical heterogeneities of varying scale which are the apparent cause of the complex seismic reflections recorded by COCORP. Field observations, coupled with geochemical data, indicate a complex evolution of the lower crust which can include anatexis, multiple deformation, polymetamorphism and reworking of older crustal material. The complexity of the crust is thus the result of continuous evolution by recycling and metamorphism through time in a variety of tectonic environments.
Framing Issues in Health Care: Do American Ideals Demand Basic Health Care and Other Social Necessities for All?

This paper argues for the necessity of universal health care (as well as universal free education) using a different argument than most that have been made heretofore. It is not meant to conflict with but to strengthen the arguments previously made by others. Using the second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence and the Preamble to the Constitution we argue that universal health care in this day and age has become a necessary condition if the ideals of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are to be more than an empty promise and if the discussion of "promoting of general welfare" in the preamble is to have any meaning.
Multiple geometries and modes of fault-propagation folding in the Canadian thrust belt

Abstract A multitude of fold models have been proposed to explain the variety of fold geometries which develop in front of thrust faults. Detailed field, fabric, and photogrammetric studies of 4 fault-cored asymmetrical folds in the thin-skinned Canadian thrust belt were used to test models of fault-propagation folding. Fold geometries include combinations of angular and rounded fold surfaces, highly contorted anticlinal hinge areas, and minimal penetrative deformation or changes in bedding thickness. Interlimb angles generally decrease with increasing shortening, indicating progressive fold tightening about fixed anticlinal hinges. Extensive flexural slip thrusting toward the anticlinal axes of angular folds suggests that kink folding in thin-skinned thrust belts is aided by material transfer from both fold limbs into hinge areas. Fold geometries change dramatically along the strike of individual structures, demonstrating the non-uniqueness of fault-propagation fold geometries. No single mode of fault-propagation folding can explain the diverse fold geometries seen in the Canadian thrust belt. This geometric variability can be ascribed to the complex interplay of multiple modes of folding. In strata near the causal thrusts, oblique shear and flexural slip in triangular shear zones distribute thrust displacements into both rounded and angular folds. Simultaneous angular folding of overlying strata commonly occurs by progressive kink folding where folds tighten by flexural slip on all fold limbs until the thrust breaks through the fold. Regional and local differences in the amount of pervasive, top-to-the-craton shear needed for progressive kink folding may be partially responsible for the variability of fault-propagation fold geometries in thin- and thick-skinned orogens world-wide.
A parametric study of error in the parabolic approximation of focused axisymmetric ultrasound beams

The parabolic approximation results in a tractible model for studying ultrasound beams, but the limits of validity of the approximation are often presented only qualitatively. In this work the most common model for axisymmetric ultrasound beam propagation, the Kuznetsov–Zabolotskaya–Khokhlov equation, is directly compared with the more general Westervelt equation with regard to diffractive and absorptive effects in continuous wave beams. The parametric study compares the solutions of the two models as a function of source frequency and focusing geometry using peak focal pressure, the axial location at which that peak occurs, and the loss due to absorption as metrics.
The effect of hardness on the stability of citrate-stabilized gold nanoparticles and their uptake by Daphnia magna

Abstract The stability and uptake by Daphnia magna of citrate-stabilized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in three different hardness-adjusted synthetic waters were investigated. Negatively charged AuNPs were found to aggregate and settle in synthetic waters within 24 h. Sedimentation rates depended on initial particle concentrations of 0.02, 0.04, and 0.08 nM AuNPs. Hardness of the synthetic waters affected the aggregation of AuNPs and is explained by the compression of diffuse double layer of AuNPs due to the increasing ionic strength. The fractal dimension of AuNPs in the reaction-limited regime of synthetic waters averaged 2.228 ± 0.126 implying the rigid structures of aggregates driven by the collision of small particles with the growing aggregates. Four-day old D. magna accumulated more than 90% of AuNPs in 0.04 nM AuNP suspensions without any observed mortality. Exposure to pre-aggregated AuNP for 48 h in hard water did not show any significant difference in uptake, suggesting D. magna can also ingest settled AuNP aggregates. D. magna exposed to AuNPs shed their exoskeleton whereas the control did not generate any molts over 48 h. This implies that D. magna removed AuNPs on their exoskeleton by producing molts to decrease any adverse effects of adhered AuNPs.
Cross-erasure noise in high-density holographic-storage systems

We consider a process by which images recorded in high-density holographic storage systems may be degraded. In particular, the recording of many holograms in the same volume results in cross erasure of each hologram by the sum of all the remaining holograms superposed in the same volume. This effect is, in general, spatially nonuniform and varies both transversely across each recorded image and in depth as the image propagates and diffracts throughout the volume of the recording medium. We apply a three-dimensional numerical analysis to assess the bit error rate (BER) resulting from this noise source as a function of various recording parameters. In particular, we use this analysis to determine the optimum exposure schedule for a given BER. We then describe means by which these noise sources can be largely circumvented through appropriate choice of the writing-beam intensities or the recording geometry or the use of random-phase screens.
Padé Approximant in Potential Scattering

It is suggested that the Pad\'e approximant be used as an approximation outside the radius of convergence of the Born series for scattering from a short-range potential free from a strong singularity. Following Weinberg's analysis of the Born series, one approximates the potential by a finite number of separable potentials in order to deal with a limited range of energy, and thus the associated $K$ matrix can be evaluated without further approximation. When a number $N$ of separable potentials are constructed by using the lowest $2N$ terms of the Born series, the result is identical to the ($N, N$) Pad\'e approximant. If expanded formally into a power series in the potential strength, this approximation reproduces the original Born series exactly up to the $2N\mathrm{th}$ order; but without an expansion it takes a closed form for any finite potential strength, and therefore it is well defined outside the radius of convergence of the Born series. When the Weinberg eigenvalues and eigenfunctions on the energy shell are closely approximated with a suitably chosen $N$, the divergence difficulty of the conventional Born series can be overcome by the use of the Pad\'e approximant, because the latter is correctly continued analytically outside the convergence radius of its Born series.
Gas-phase Fe+-assisted cycloaddition reactions of cyclopentadiene with small alkenes and alkynes

Abstract Gas-phase Fe + -assisted Diels–Alder reactions of cyclopentadiene with small alkenes and alkynes were studied using Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) mass spectrometry. The reaction of FeC 5 H 6 + with ethene is proposed to be direct [4 + 2] Diels–Alder cycloaddition followed by dehydrogenation. The formation of FeC 8 H 10 + from the reaction of FeC 5 H 6 + with propene can be explained by an allylic C–H insertion and reductive elimination of H 2 . It is also possible for the reaction to proceed by [4 + 2] Diels–Alder coupling reaction and further dehydrogenation. The most intriguing reactions are the ones with ethyne and propyne, where Fe(tropylium) + and Fe(cyclooctatetraene) + are the predominant products. Reaction of FeC 5 H 6 + with ethyne can proceed either through [4 + 2] addition followed by [1,3]-shift and H loss or from [2 + 2] addition, subsequent retro [2 + 2] reaction and H loss. The reaction with propyne is more likely to undergo a [2 + 2] addition and subsequent retro [2 + 2] followed by dehydrogenation to form major product ion, FeC 8 H 8 + . A retro-alkyne cycloaddition process is believed to be responsible for the formation of the secondary reaction product FeC 6 H 6 + . For comparison with propyne, the reaction of FeC 5 H 6 + with allene was also studied. It turned out to be the same major product, Fe(cyclooctatetraene) + . This reaction is proposed to proceed by either [2 + 2] or [4 + 2] cycloaddition and subsequent dehydrogenation to form Fe(C 8 H 8 ) + . Further kinetics studies on these reactions indicate that they follow linear pseudo-first-order kinetics, suggesting that FeC 5 H 6 + is thermalized and consists of one isomeric structure under our experimental conditions.
Benefits of a Contextual Approach to Understanding and Treating Complex Trauma

The conceptual framework and treatment rationale of contextual therapy are described. Contextual therapy was specifically fashioned for survivors of prolonged child abuse (PCA). It is grounded in the observation that contexts beyond abuse trauma, especially restrictions in psychological development stemming from growing up in an ineffective family environment, appreciably impact the adjustment of many PCA survivors. Contextual therapy proposes that remediation of developmental gaps commonly manifested by PCA survivors is essential to equip them to (a) benefit from rather than be debilitated by trauma processing and (b) move beyond symptom reduction to the attainment of adequate social and occupational functioning.
Kinematics-Based Mathematical Model for Deforming Thrust Wedges

Given the wealth of data concerning the kinematics of deforming fold-thrust belts (FTBs), first-order generalizations about how the major strain components vary within a deforming thrust wedges are considered. These generally observed strain patterns are used to constrain a general, kinematics-based, FTB-wedge model. We considered five strain components within a deforming thrust sheet: (1) thrust-parallel simple shear, (2) horizontal contractional strain, (3) thrust-normal reaction strain, (4) gravitational strain, and (5) a lateral confining boundary condition. After making assumptions about how these strain components vary within a model FTB-wedge, the incremental deformation matrix can be calculated for any given point within the deforming wedge. Thus, the material path of a given marker can be determined and an initially spherical marker’s strain path can be calculated as it moves through the deforming wedge. Furthermore, by illustrating various kinematic parameters of many initially spherical markers (for example, Flinn’s k-value, incremental octahedral shear strain, transport-perpendicular stretch), we have assembled representations of the kinematic properties of the entire model wedge. By including a flat-ramp-flat fault surface geometry for the model wedge, we are able to examine the kinematic effects of this relatively common structural geometry. Within the fault ramp segment there are greater incremental strain magnitudes, out-of-the-plane motion, and flattening strains. Additionally, data from this model suggests that gravitational strains potentially have a significant effect on the strain distribution within a deforming thrust wedge.
Morphological Analyses of the Mecardonia acuminata (Plantaginaceae) Species Complex in the Southeastern USA

The Mecardonia acuminata complex is a classic example of a widespread endemic species in the southeastern US. Morphological variations in the complex resulted in the classification of at least three varieties or subspecies for the species by previous botanists. However, the distributions and diagnostic features of two of the subspecies, peninsularis and microphylla, are unclear due to shared morphological features and widespread distribution of the subspecies acuminata. The present study involved examination and biostatistical analyses of 3 vegetative and 5 reproductive characters that were known to serve as diagnostic features of 1 or more taxa of the species. Results of the study indicate that subspecies peninsularis can be distinguished by its ascending peduncle angle of suspension, diffuse basal branching habit (dendriform at base) of the shoot and small leaves, especially in the southern ranges of the complex. Subspecies microphylla can be distinguished based on its short ( 20 mm). Subspecies acuminata was also observed to comprise many individuals that were intermediates of 2 or 3 subspecies. Discriminant function analyses on longitude, latitude, and biogeography as well as Wilks' lambda estimates suggest moderate to low clinal variation and a much broader historical range distribution of subspecies peninuslaris. The morphological variations in the species complex may be due to secondary contact with ongoing integration into subspecies acuminata.
Dilational Processes Accompanying Earthquakes in the Long Valley Caldera

Regional distance seismic moment tensor determinations and broadband waveforms of moment magnitude 4.6 to 4.9 earthquakes from a November 1997 Long Valley Caldera swarm, during an inflation episode, display evidence of anomalous seismic radiation characterized by non-double couple (NDC) moment tensors with significant volumetric components. Observed coseismic dilation suggests that hydrothermal or magmatic processes are directly triggering some of the seismicity in the region. Similarity in the NDC solutions implies a common source process, and the anomalous events may have been triggered by net fault-normal stress reduction due to high-pressure fluid injection or pressurization of fluid-saturated faults due to magmatic heating.
Applying Social Psychology to Induce Charitable Donations1

As part of a door-to-door campaign to raise funds for the American Cancer Society, 359 people in a middle-class neighborhood were randomly assigned to five different versions of a request for contributions. A version of the request similar to that typically used in such charity drives served as a control and the other four versions were modified slightly on the basis of social psychological principles. Three of these manipulations failed to increase donating beyond the level of the standard request. Replicating prior research, it was found that for completed requests (N= 293) adding the words “even a penny will help” to the standard request significantly increased the percentage of people who donated. However, in 66 cases the solicitor was interrupted with a donation or a refusal before delivering the key phrase that differentiated the experimental conditions. An analysis of these incomplete requests suggests that the effectiveness of the even-a-penny technique may be at least partially explained by the solicitors' expectations.
Hyperhydration and Parotid Flow in Man

It has been stated that the most important systemic condition affecting salivation is undoubtedly the degree of hydration of the tissues.' Although dehydration has been correlated with decreased salivary flow,1-6 reports dealing with the effect of hyperhydration are sparse.7 8 The question of whether hyperhydration affects salivary flow has not received proper experimental attention. This study explores the effect of graded degrees of forced water ingestion on the rate of function of the unstimulated parotid gland.
Field evaluation of a Mycoplasma bovis bacterin in young dairy calves

Mycoplasma bovis is an important cause of pneumonia, otitis media and arthritis in young dairy calves, and there is a critical need for improved preventative strategies for this pathogen. We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded field trial to determine the efficacy of a commercial M. bovis vaccine for the prevention of M. bovis-associated disease in calves. Calves (n=373) on 3 Florida dairies with a history of M. bovis infection received an M. bovis bacterin or a placebo, administered subcutaneously at 3, 14 and 35 days of age. One of the herds did not experience M. bovis-associated disease; for calves in the remaining 2 herds, the incidence risk for respiratory disease, otitis media and arthritis from 3 to 90 days of age was 0.64, 0.28 and 0.02, respectively. Vaccination had no effect on the age at first treatment for M. bovis-associated disease, incidence of respiratory disease, mortality, weight gain, or nasal colonization with M. bovis in the first 90 days of life. In one herd, vaccination was associated with an increased risk of otitis media. There was no association between M. bovis-specific serum antibody titers and morbidity in vaccinated calves. Under the field conditions in this study, this vaccine was not efficacious for the prevention of M. bovis-associated disease in young dairy calves.
TP53 codon 72 polymorphism and colorectal cancer susceptibility: a meta-analysis

Colorectal cancer constitutes a significant proportion of the global burden of cancer morbidity and mortality. A number of studies have been conducted to explore whether TP53 codon 72 polymorphism is associated with colorectal cancer susceptibility. However, controversial results were obtained. In order to derive a more precise estimation of the relationship, we systematically searched Medline, Google scholar, and Ovid database for studies reported before May 2010. A total of 3603 colorectal cancer cases and 5524 controls were included. TP53 codon 72 polymorphism was not associated with colorectal cancer risk in all genetic models (for dominant model: OR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.86–1.15; for recessive model: OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.81–1.23; for Arg/Pro vs. Arg/Arg: OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.87–1.15; for Pro/Pro vs. Arg/Arg: OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.76–1.25). In the subgroup analyses by ethnic groups and sources of controls, no significant associations were found in all models. Taken together, this meta-analysis suggested that the biologically usefulness of TP53 codon 72 polymorphism as a selection marker in colorectal cancer susceptibility may be very limited.
Uric Acid Nephrolithiasis: A Systemic Metabolic Disorder

Uric acid nephrolithiasis is characteristically a manifestation of a systemic metabolic disorder. It has a prevalence of about 10% among all stone formers, the third most common type of kidney stone in the industrialized world. Uric acid stones form primarily due to an unduly acid urine; less deciding factors are hyperuricosuria and a low urine volume. The vast majority of uric acid stone formers have the metabolic syndrome, and not infrequently, clinical gout is present as well. A universal finding is a low baseline urine pH plus insufficient production of urinary ammonium buffer. Persons with gastrointestinal disorders, in particular chronic diarrhea or ostomies, and patients with malignancies with a large tumor mass and high cell turnover comprise a less common but nevertheless important subset. Pure uric acid stones are radiolucent but well visualized on renal ultrasound or computer tomography. A 24 h urine collection for stone risk analysis provides essential insight into the pathophysiology of stone formation and may guide therapy. Management includes a liberal fluid intake and dietary modification. Potassium citrate to alkalinize the urine to a goal pH between 6 and 6.5 is essential, as undissociated uric acid deprotonates into its much more soluble urate form.
Simple and complex ABCR: genetic predisposition to retinal disease.

Diseases of the retina include a wide spectrum of photoreceptor-affecting phenotypes that have been mapped to >120 loci on the human genome (RetNet Retinal Information Network). Currently, less than half of the causal genes have been identified (RetNet Retinal Information Network), although substantial progress has been made in determining the genetic basis of monogenic eye disorders. Mutations in new genes that are responsible for some form of retinal degeneration are identified on a regular basis. The vast majority of these genes are involved in rare phenotypes in a limited numbers of patients.
Ambivalence to Technology in Jeunet’s Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain

Although at one level Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amelie Poulain is a sweet, attractive film about a young Parisian doing good deeds, it also offers a compelling analysis of the role of technology in our modern lives. The film paints a world where machines and a mechanistic worldview are appealing because humans have a desire to control their destinies but threatening because humans value freedom. The work of French social theorist Jacques Ellul is especially useful in analyzing these facets of the film as technology and freedom were consistent themes in his various books on the modern milieu.
Ligand and pH Influence on Manganese-Mediated Peracetic Acid Epoxidation of Terminal Olefins

Nineteen MnII complexes were screened for the catalytic epoxidation of terminal olefins using peracetic acid. Few of these complexes are efficient catalysts at pH < 2, but many are effective at 1 mol % catalyst loading at pH 4. With 0.1 mol % loading, four complexes epoxidize 1-octene in ∼80% yield in 5 min. The relative reactivity of the catalysts toward different olefins was probed using a multicomponent intermolecular competition reaction.
A comparison of neonatal morbidity: is fetal lung maturity testing effective?

RITY TESTING EFFECTIVE? MARY BRAY, MONIQUE HO, BRIAN BROST, Medical College of Ohio, OB/GYN, Toledo, OH University of Alabama at Birmingham, Human Genetics, Birmingham, AL Mayo Clinic, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rochester, MN OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of the benefit of fetal lung maturity (FLM) testing for delivery management between 34 and 36 weeks gestation. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort of 502 consecutive high risk gravidas presenting for delivery management between 34 and 36 weeks gestation during 1991-1999. Incidences of neonatal morbidities (RDS, IVH, seizures, TTN, congenital pneumonia, NEC, ophthalmalogic disease, death, and length of stay) were compared between those who had undergone testing and those who had not. Comparison was also made between those who tested mature and immature. Analysis was controlled for delivery gestational age, maternal age, parity, and multiple gestation. RESULTS: 94 (18.7%) of the studied gravidas underwent FLM testing, the remaining 408 did not. 74 test results were mature, 20 immature. There was no significant difference in either single or combined neonatal morbidity between those tested and not tested (p = .71). Of those who had amniocentesis for FLM testing, the overall morbidity rate was decreased in those who had a mature result (p = .03). When stratified by gestational age, only the 34 week group retained significance (p = .04). Comparison of individual morbidity incidences in those who tested mature vs. immature showed only a decrease in RDS for the mature group (p < .001). CONCLUSION: Although overall neonatal morbidity did not change in the group of patients who were managed without FLM testing, there was a decrease in RDS for those who testedmature at 34 weeks. This suggests that amniocentesis for FLM may be a useful management decision tool for this gestational age, but perhaps not for pregnancies at 35-36 weeks.
The Relationship between Medicare Payment and Service Volume for Retina Procedures from 2005 through 2009.

Purpose To calculate the relationship between Medicare payment and service volume for the 3 highest-volume retina procedures: intravitreal injection (Current Procedural Terminology [CPT] code 67028), laser treatment for retinal edema (CPT code 67210), and laser treatment for proliferative retinopathy (CPT code 67228). Design Retrospective, longitudinal database study. Participants One hundred percent dataset of all retina procedures performed on Medicare Part B beneficiaries within the United States from 2005 through 2009. Methods Fixed-effects regression model using Medicare Part B carrier data for all 50 states and the District of Columbia, controlling for time-invariant carrier-specific characteristics, national trends in service volume, Medicare beneficiary population, number of ophthalmologists, and income per capita. Main Outcome Measures Medicare payment-service volume elasticities, defined as the percent change in service volume per 1% change in Medicare payment, for intravitreal injection, laser treatment for retinal edema, and laser treatment for proliferative retinopathy. Results For all 3 retina procedures, the regression coefficients representing the Medicare payment-service volume elasticity were nonsignificant: intravitreal injection elasticity, −0.75 (95% confidence interval [CI], −1.62 to 0.13; P = 0.09); laser treatment for retinal edema elasticity, 0.14 (95% CI, −0.38 to 0.65; P = 0.59); and laser treatment for proliferative retinopathy elasticity, 0.05 (95% CI, −0.26 to 0.35; P = 0.77). Conclusions This study found no evidence suggesting that there is an association between Medicare payment and service volume for the 3 highest-volume retina procedures from 2005 through 2009.
Brain Hyperexcitability: The Basis for Antiepileptic Drugs in Migraine Prevention

Abnormal brain excitability may provide the susceptibility for triggering migraine attacks. Antiepileptic drugs may diminish neuronal excitability and consequently reduce the frequency of migraine. Because migraine aura is predominantly visual, hyperexcitability of the occipital cortex has been the focus of investigations. Functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and magnetoencephalography provide the most consistent evidence for the role of brain hyperexcitability in migraine and confirm that triggering an abnormal electric and metabolic event consistent with the cortical spreading depression (CSD) of Leao is anatomically and functionally linked with migraine aura symptoms. Future drug discovery should focus on the interface between the excitable cell and the earliest events of CSD.
Aggregate effects of system integration for analysis of wind energy diffusion

During the last several years, a large number of reports and a complementary body of literature has surfaced regarding the effects of incorporating large amounts of wind energy into the electric grid. Studies have been performed by individual system operators, utilities, industry research organizations, as well as national and academic research programs. The results claimed can vary and despite the large amount of research and reports, the actual economic and operational effect of large amounts of wind energy remains unclear. The goal of this work is to analyze the characteristics of the different studies in terms of system context and methodologies in order to provide an informed perspective as to how and why various studies have arrived at the conclusions that they have and what general conclusions can be drawn regarding large-scale diffusion of wind energy into the electric system.
Batch RNAi selector: A standalone program to predict specific siRNA candidates in batches with enhanced sensitivity

RNA interference (RNAi) is a popular and effective method for silencing gene expression. siRNAs should be gene-specific and effective to achieve specific and potent gene silencing. However, most currently available siRNA design programs are web-based programs that either require each sequence be submitted individually, making large-batch analyses difficult to conduct, or only provide limited options for searching off-target candidates (e.g. NCBI-BLAST). We have developed a stand-alone, enhanced RNAi design program that overcomes these shortcomings. We have implemented WU-BLAST, FASTA and SSEARCH homology searches for siRNA candidates to improve gene specific siRNA selection and to identity siRNA candidates that could lead to off-target gene silencing. We also included many new features such as siRNA score calculation and calculation of siRNA internal stability to help select highly potent siRNAs. This program is freely available for academic and commercial use (ftp://ftp.systemsbiology.net/pub/blin/SiRNA/), and can be installed and run on any Linux machine. Our program automates the search for siRNAs and the resulting data files including a list of siRNA primers with scores and database search results for each siRNA candidate are stored locally for easy retrieval and inspection when needed.