cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
De novo AL Amyloidosis in the Kidney Allograft

We report four cases of de novo amyloidosis occurring after 16, 18, 28 and 31 years following kidney transplantation. These patients presented with proteinuria and progressive allograft dysfunction. Kidney biopsy showed AL amyloidosis in all compartments of the allograft kidney. Serum immunofixation studies revealed monoclonal lambda light chains in all four cases. Bone marrow examination showed 10% plasma cells in one case, 5-10% in two cases and less than 5% in one case. Two patients died unexpectedly within 3 months and 1 year of the diagnosis of allograft AL amyloidosis. Of the remaining two, one underwent autologous stem cell transplant that resulted in complete hematologic remission. However, the patient relapsed within 2 years and also developed progressive kidney allograft failure. The patient received a second autologous stem cell transplant with complete hematologic response, followed by a second kidney transplant, which showed no evidence of amyloid at 1-year posttransplant. The remaining case was treated with prednisone and bortezomib, which has stabilized kidney function in the short term. In conclusion, this study shows that AL amyloidosis is an uncommon but important cause of late onset proteinuria in the kidney allograft that results in kidney allograft failure.
Un problema: el análisis conceptual

The core in legal analytical philosophy it is constituted by an effort to deploy theories able to answer to the question “what is the Law?” To have a theory of law implies to have a theory about what distinguishes “law” from “non-law”. This distinction must be independent of ourselves, at least independent of some preferences we have in a certain moment. This introduces the problem of conceptual analysis in the field of Law. This article addresses some the difficulties in such a task.
Mutational landscape of candidate genes in familial prostate cancer

BACKGROUND Family history is a major risk factor for prostate cancer (PCa), suggesting a genetic component to the disease. However, traditional linkage and association studies have failed to fully elucidate the underlying genetic basis of familial PCa. METHODS Here, we use a candidate gene approach to identify potential PCa susceptibility variants in whole exome sequencing data from familial PCa cases. Six hundred ninety-seven candidate genes were identified based on function, location near a known chromosome 17 linkage signal, and/or previous association with prostate or other cancers. Single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in these candidate genes were identified in whole exome sequence data from 33 PCa cases from 11 multiplex PCa families (3 cases/family). RESULTS Overall, 4,856 candidate gene SNVs were identified, including 1,052 missense and 10 nonsense variants. Twenty missense variants were shared by all three family members in each family in which they were observed. Additionally, 15 missense variants were shared by two of three family members and predicted to be deleterious by five different algorithms. Four missense variants, BLM Gln123Arg, PARP2 Arg283Gln, LRCC46 Ala295Thr and KIF2B Pro91Leu, and one nonsense variant, CYP3A43 Arg441Ter, showed complete co-segregation with PCa status. Twelve additional variants displayed partial co-segregation with PCa. CONCLUSIONS Forty-three nonsense and shared, missense variants were identified in our candidate genes. Further research is needed to determine the contribution of these variants to PCa susceptibility. Prostate 74:1371–1378, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Proteoglycan Depletion–Induced Changes in Transverse Relaxation Maps of Cartilage

Rationale and Objectives The authors performed this study to (a) measure changes in T2 relaxation rates, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast with sequential depletion of proteoglycan in cartilage; (b) determine whether there is a relationship between the T2 relaxation rate and proteoglycan in cartilage; and (c) compare the T2 mapping method with the spin-lattice relaxation time in the rotating frame (T1ρ) mapping method in the quantification of proteoglycan-induced changes. Materials and Methods T2- and T1ρ-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images were obtained in five bovine patellae. All images were obtained with a 4-T whole-body MR unit and a 10-cm-diameter transmit-receive quadrature birdcage coil tuned to 170 MHz. T2 and T1ρ maps were computed. Results The SNR and contrast on the T2-weighted images were, on average, about 43% lower than those on the corresponding T1ρ-weighted images. The T2 relaxation rates varied randomly without any particular trend, which yielded a poor correlation with sequential depletion of proteoglycan (R2 = 0.008, P < .70). There was excellent linear correlation between the percentage of proteoglycan in the tissue and the T1ρ relaxation rate (R2 = 0.85, P < .0001). Conclusion T2-weighted imaging neither yields quantitative information about the changes in proteoglycan distribution in cartilage nor can be used for longitudinal studies to quantify proteoglycan-induced changes. T1ρ-weighted imaging, however, is sensitive to sequential depletion of proteoglycan in bovine cartilage and can be used to quantify proteoglycan-induced changes.
How complicated must an optical component be

We analyze how complicated a linear optical component has to be if it is to perform one of a range of functions. Specifically, we devise an approach to evaluating the number of real parameters that must be specified in the device design or fabrication, based on the singular value decomposition of the linear operator that describes the device. This approach can be used for essentially any linear device, including space-, frequency-, or time-dependent systems, in optics, or in other linear wave problems. We analyze examples including spatial mode converters and various classes of wavelength demultiplexers. We consider limits on the functions that can be performed by simple optical devices, such as thin lenses, mirrors, gratings, modulators, and fixed optical filters, and discuss the potential for greater functionalities using modern nanophotonics.
Marijuana use and long-term mortality among survivors of acute myocardial infarction.

Background Smoking marijuana has been reported to increase risk of myocardial infarction (MI) immediately after use, but less is known about the long-term impact of marijuana use among patients with established coronary disease. Methods The Determinants of MI Onset Study is a multicenter inception cohort study of myocardial infarction (MI) patients enrolled in 1989 to 1996 and followed up for mortality using the National Death Index. In an initial analysis of 1,935 MI survivors followed up for a median of 3.8 years, we found an increased mortality rate among marijuana users. The current article includes 3,886 Determinants of MI Onset Study patients followed up for up to 18 years. We used Cox proportional hazards models to calculate the hazard ratio and 95% CI for the association between marijuana use and mortality and a propensity score matched analysis to further control confounding. Results Over up to 18 years of follow-up, 519 patients died, including 22 of the 109 reporting marijuana use in the year before their MI. There was no statistically significant association between marijuana use and mortality. Compared with nonusers, the mortality rate was 29% higher (95% CI 0.81-2.05, P = .28) among those reporting any marijuana use. Conclusions Habitual marijuana use among patients presenting with acute MI was associated with an apparent increased mortality rate over the following 18 years that did not reach nominal statistical significance. Larger studies with repeated measures of marijuana use are needed to definitively establish whether there are adverse cardiovascular consequences of smoking marijuana among patients with established coronary heart disease.
CORRECTION TO THE PAPER "ON THE SECOND MAIN THEOREM OF CARTAN"

To prove Theorem 2, we use the following two facts about the class F: 1. F is a differential ring [2]. This means that F is closed under addition, multiplication and differentiation. 2. All functions y ∈ F are entire functions of completely regular growth in the sense of Levin–Pfluger [4], with piecewise-trigonometric indicators, the notions which we recall now. Let f be a holomorphic function in an angular sector S = {re : |θ−θ0| 0}. We say that f has completely regular growth with respect to order ρ > 0 if the following finite limit exists
Image Processing For Automatic Alignment In The Nova Laser Facility

The Nova laser is a high-power, pulsed, neodymium-glass system used for inertial confinement fusion and X-ray laser research at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The control system aligns the ten 250-m-long beams by closing approximately 300 automatic loops. TV alignment sensor images are image processed to extract laser beam and reference information. Two-dimensional techniques that have been applied to process these images include correlation, convolution, gradient, centroid, Hough transform, and histogram equalization. These techniques combine to form algorithms that are relatively insensitive to image Intensity. This paper describes practical image processing methods and reliability measures developed for automatic alignment.
Changes in Mechanics and Composition of Human Talar Cartilage Anlagen During Fetal Development

Summary Objective Fetal cartilage anlage provides a framework for endochondral ossification and organization into articular cartilage. We previously reported differences between mechanical properties of talar cartilage anlagen and adult articular cartilage. However, the underlying development-associated changes remain to be established. Delineation of the normal evolvement of mechanical properties and its associated compositional basis provides insight into the natural mechanisms of cartilage maturation. Our goal was to address this issue. Materials and methods Human fetal cartilage anlagen were harvested from the tali of normal stillborn fetuses from 20 to 36weeks of gestational age. Data obtained from stress relaxation experiments conducted under confined and unconfined compression configurations were processed to derive the compressive mechanical properties. The compressive mechanical properties were extracted from a linear fit to the equilibrium response in unconfined compression, and by using the nonlinear biphasic theory to fit to the experimental data from the confined compression experiment, both in stress–relaxation. The molecular composition was obtained using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and spatial maps of tissue contents per dry weight were created using FTIR imaging. Correlative and regression analyses were performed to identify relationships between the mechanical properties and age, compositional properties and age, and mechanical vs compositional parameters. Results All of the compositional quantities and the mechanical properties excluding the Poisson's ratio changed with maturation. Stiffness increased by a factor of ∼2.5 and permeability decreased by 20% over the period studied. Collagen content and degree of collagen integrity increased with age by ∼3-fold, while the proteoglycan content decreased by 18%. Significant relations were found between the mechanical and compositional properties. Conclusion The mechanics of fetal talar cartilage is related to its composition, where the collagen and proteoglycan network play a prominent role. An understanding of the mechanisms of early cartilage maturation could provide a framework to guide tissue-engineering strategies.
Survival of Protosiphon botryoides (Chlorophyceae, Chlorophyta) from a Connecticut soil dried for 43 years

Lewis L.A. and Trainor F.R. 2012. Survival of Protosiphon botryoides (Chlorophyceae, Chlorophyta) from a Connecticut soil dried for 43 years. Phycologia 51: 662–665. DOI: 10.2216/11-108.1 Following a series of long-term studies of algae that survive desiccation, we reported the presence of the green alga Protosiphon botryoides from liquid preparations of soil dried for 43 years and its absence from cultures prepared with soils dried for 50 years. The identity of this alga was verified using phylogenetic analysis of data from the 18S rDNA and rbcL genes. Mechanisms used by green algae to survive long-term desiccation were discussed.
Risk Assessment Based on Financial Data: Market Response to Airline Accidents

The risk of catastrophic failures, for example in the aviation and aerospace industries, can be approached from different angles (e.g., statistics when they exist, or a detailed probabilistic analysis of the system). Each new accident carries information that has already been included in the experience base or constitutes new evidence that can be used to update a previous assessment of the risk. In this paper, we take a different approach and consider the risk and the updating from the investor's point of view. Based on the market response to past airplane accidents, we examine which ones have created a “surprise response” and which ones are considered part of the risk of the airline business as previously assessed. To do so, we quantify the magnitude and the timing of the observed market response to catastrophic accidents, and we compare it to an estimate of the response that would be expected based on the true actual cost of the accident including direct and indirect costs (“full-cost information” response). First, we develop a method based on stock market data to measure the actual market response to an accident and we construct an estimate of the “full-cost information” response to such an event. We then compare the two figures for the immediate and the long-term response of the market for the affected firm, as well as for the whole industry group to which the firm belongs. As an illustration, we analyze a sample of ten fatal accidents experienced by major US domestic airlines during the last seven years. In four cases, we observed an abnormal market response. In these instances, it seems that the shareholders may have updated their estimates of the probability of a future accident in the affected airlines or more generally of the firm's future business prospects. This market reaction is not always easy to explain much less to anticipate, a fact which management should bear in mind when planning a firm's response to such an event.
Culture in low levels of oxygen enhances in vitro proliferation potential of satellite cells from old skeletal muscles.

The proliferation ability of satellite cells (considered the 'stem cells' of mature myofibers) declines with increasing age when cultured under standard cell culture conditions of 21% oxygen. However, actual oxygen levels in the intact myofiber in vivo are an order of magnitude lower. No studies to date have addressed the issue of whether culturing satellite cells from old muscles under more 'physiologic' conditions would enhance their proliferation and/or differentiation ability. Therefore, we analyzed satellite cells derived from 31-month-old rats in standard cultures with 21% O2 and in lowered (∼3%) O2. Under the lowered O2 conditions, we noted a remarkable increase in the percentage of large-sized colonies, activation of cell cycle progression factors, phosphorylation of Akt, and downregulation of the cell cycle inhibitor p27Kip1. These data suggest that lower O2 levels provide a milieu that stimulates proliferation by allowing continued cell cycle progression, to result ultimately in the enhanced in vitro replicative life span of the old satellite cells. Such a method therefore provides an improved means for the ex vivo generation of progenitor satellite cell populations for potential therapeutic stem cell transplantation.
PRP5 : a helicase-like protein required for mRNA splicing in yeast

A 96-kDa protein predicted by the DNA sequence of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae PRP5 gene contains a domain that bears a striking resemblance to a family of RNA helicases characterized by the conserved amino acid sequence Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp (D-E-A-D). Previous work indicated that the product of the PRP5 gene is required for splicing and that spliceosome assembly does not occur in its absence. However, its precise role in splicing and the nature of its biochemical activity remained unknown. To examine the role of PRP5 in splicing, we cloned the gene by complementation of a temperature-sensitive mutation and determined its DNA sequence. We discuss here the possible roles for an RNA helicase in splicing and for the activity of the PRP5 protein.
The association of cord serum cytokines with neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Objective To test whether elevated umbilical cord serum inflammatory cytokine levels predicted subsequent cerebral palsy (CP) or neurodevelopmental delay (NDD). Study Design Nested case-control analysis within a clinical trial of antenatal magnesium sulfate (MgSO 4 ) before anticipated preterm birth (PTB) for prevention of CP, with evaluation of surviving children at the age of 2. NDD was defined as a Bayley psychomotor developmental index (PDI) and/or mental developmental index (MDI) 4 exposure, gestational age, race/ethnicity, and sociodemographic differences. Results Logistic regression analysis with 339 cases and 276 controls showed that elevated IL-8 and IL-1β were more common in cord blood serum from infants with subsequent low MDI as compared with controls. After adjusting for additional confounders, the significant differences were no longer evident. Cytokine levels (IL-8, IL-1β, and TNF-α) were not elevated with CP or low PDI. Conclusion Cord serum IL-8, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels in preterm infants are not associated with subsequent CP or NDD.
Tensions across the scales: planning infrastructure for the long-term

In designing information infrastructure participants are planning for the long-term. The notion of infrastructure evokes images beyond 'a proof of concept,' a 'prototype' or an isolated 'application'; it is intended to be a persistent, ubiquitous and reliable environment. However, in implementing such projects participants confront multiple difficulties such as securing sustained funding, supporting maintenance and integrating new technologies.Based on cross-case ethnographic analysis this paper traces nine tensions identified by participants as they endeavor to transition from short-term projects to long-term information infrastructure. We explore three core concerns framed by actors: motivating contribution; aligning end-goals; and designing for use. These concerns have unique implications for each scale of infrastructure: institutionalization; the organization of work; and enacting technology.
Catalytic Ignition Properties and Surface Reaction Kinetics Modeling From Methane in Oxygen-Nitrogen Mixtures on Platinum

The ignition temperature and heat generation from oxidation of methane on a platinum catalyst were determined experimentally. A 127 micron diameter platinum coiled wire was placed crosswise in a quartz tube of a plug flow reactor. A source meter with a 4-wire measurement capability measured the resistance and current to calculate the average temperature of the surface reaction. Light-off temperatures varied from 730–780K for methane for a fuel-oxygen equivalence ratio of 0.3 to 1.0 at fuel percentages of 2–5% by volume. A model of the experimental system was created using Fluent coupled with Chemkin to combine an advanced chemistry solver with flow simulation. The experimental data was compared to the model results, which includes heat transfer and the surface reaction kinetics of methane on platinum. The heat transfer model obtained values within 4 Kelvin to experimental data for temperatures between 400K and 700K. At temperatures greater than 700K the model deviated with temperatures greater than the experimental by up to 60 Kelvin.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
BUSINESS AND LAW (ISSUE 5)

This is the fifth article on Business and Law (BSL) databases in a continuing series of articles summarising and commenting on new database products. Two companion articles have appeared, one covering science, technology and medicine (STM) (Online & CDROM Review, vol. 19 issue 1) in the February 1995 issue and the other covering the social sciences and humanities (SSH) (Online & CDROM Review, vol. 19 issue 2) in the April issue of this journal. The articles are based on the newly appearing database products in the Gale Directory of Databases. The Gale Directory of Databases (GDD) was created in January 1993 by merging Computer‐Readable Databases: A Directory and Data Sourcebook (CRD) together with the Directory of Online Databases (DOD) and the Directory of Portable Databases (DPD).
Influence of carrier concentration on the minority carrier lifetime in mid-wavelength infrared InAs/InAsSb superlattices

Abstract The influence of carrier concentration on the minority carrier lifetime was studied in mid-wavelength infrared InAs/InAsSb superlattices. A significant correlation between the carrier concentration and the minority carrier lifetime was observed, with lifetime decreasing from 3.6 μs to 1 μs when increasing the carrier concentration from 2 × 1015 cm−3 to 4.4 × 1015 cm−3. From temperature dependence studies of the minority carrier lifetime, radiative recombination has been identified as the main recombination mechanism in these superlattices. The radiative recombination rate increases with carrier concentration which is consistent with our observations.
Estimating uncertainty in thermal systems analysis and design

Uncertainty analysis, which is frequently used in conjunction with experimentation, is adapted for use in thermal systems analysis and design. The basic concepts of uncertainty analysis are reviewed, and applications in thermal systems analysis and design are demonstrated for series piping systems, piping networks, and cross-flow heat exchangers. For piping systems and networks, the use of uncertainty analysis gives considerable understanding into the pump over-specification problem and results in a quantifiable alternative to the use of safety factors. The use of uncertainty analysis permits bounds to be placed on predicted performance parameters and yields insight into the fidelity of such predictions and the importance of various physical variables. Uncertainty analysis is shown to be a viable paradigm for energy system analysis and design.
Effects of basis set quality on the prediction of structures, energies, and properties of amorphous tetrahedral carbon

We systematically investigate the effects of basis set quality on the prediction of a representative amorphous tetrahedral (a-tC) carbon structure. In fully self-consistent first-principles calculations, variations in the quality of the basis set do result in significant variations in predicted structure. Substantial differences between the calculations, ranging from a minimum basis to a high-quality double-zeta plus polarization (DZP) basis, for amorphous carbon stem from two sources. We discover that to properly relax candidate a-tC structures requires a high-quality basis set in the calculation. A minimum basis set is inadequate to negotiate the transition geometries involved in the making and breaking of bonds while relaxing a structure. Relaxation of an a-tC structure proposed by Drabold, Fedders, and Stumm [Phys. Rev. B {bold 49}, 16415 (1994)] using a minimum, and a DZP basis demonstrates this point. The minimum basis set calculation leaves the bonding topology essentially unchanged, while relaxation using a DZP basis removes most of the small rings and triples the number of threefold bonded atoms. In addition, we find that to accurately represent the energetics of highly defected local structures, as found in a-tC, also requires a high-quality basis set. We demonstrate this point by using molecular analogs of localmore » structures found in a-tC. Notable is how little rebonding and energy separates a-tC structures that have qualitatively different densities of threefold atoms. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}« less
Comparison of models with distributed polarizable sites for describing water clusters

In this work we examine three water models, including one developed by us, with distributed polarizable sites. These models are assessed by comparison with the results of MP2 calculations. The use of distributed polarizable sites is found to be especially important for describing the 3-body interaction energies of water clusters. It is also shown that all-atom repulsion terms are necessary to accurately describe cluster geometries.
God as F(r)iend? Reading Luke 11:5-13 & 18:1-8 with a Hermeneutic of Suffering

Employing an optic grounded in suffering and foregrounding intertexts in which God is portrayed unfavorably, it is argued that in Luke 11:5-13 and 18:1-8 Jesus acknowledges a negative experience and conception of the deity among some of early Roman Palestine’s “poor ... captives ... blind ... [and] oppressed” (4:18-19). Jesus does not ask them to suppress their impressions of God or to align them with more traditional representations; rather, they are encouraged to remain in conversation with the deity and not to become discouraged or be afraid, even when their speech pushes beyond socially acceptable limits and becomes accusatory, contemptuous, blasphemous, or outright hostile. Indeed, Jesus recommends impudence and audacious tenacity before God, confident that such conduct will receive a hearing and a response.
Human Dental Caries Experience Related to Age, Sex, Race, and Certain Salivary Properties

Saliva flow, protein concentration, and blood group substance concentration in the whole saliva of 106 persons were compared. Some of these variables then were compared with age, decayed surfaces, DMF surfaces, and immunoglobulin concentration (IgA and IgG).
“Do You Know What It Feels Like to Drown?”: Strangulation as Coercive Control in Intimate Relationships

Strangulation is a unique and particularly gendered form of nonfatal intimate partner violence, affecting 10 times as many women as men. Medical research documents multiple negative health outcomes of such victimization, and in the past decade nearly 30 U.S. states have enacted laws making nonfatal strangulation a felony. We extended prior work by using grounded theory in a qualitative study to explore women’s experiences of, thoughts about, and reactions to being strangled. Each of the 17 mostly well-educated and African American domestic violence shelter residents had been strangled at least once by an intimate partner; most had survived multiple strangulations. Despite other severe abuse and a high level of fear, all were shocked that their partner strangled them. Participants reported an intense sense of vulnerability when they recognized during the assault how easily they could be killed by their partner. Nonetheless, they seemed to think of strangulation, not as a failed murder attempt, but as a way...
Thermodynamics of information technology data centers

Information technology (IT) data centers consume a significant amount of energy, and the rate of increase of this energy consumption is growing faster than consumption in several other major industries. Thus, government regulatory agencies, academicians, and various industries have a heightened interest in IT data centers. Because almost all the electrical energy consumed in a data center is released in the form of heat, the energy required for cooling the data center contributes to a major fraction of the total data center energy consumption and is the focus of this study. Traditional data center facilities utilize vapor-compression refrigeration chiller plants, heat exchanger-based room air conditioners, pumps, and evaporative cooling towers. In servers, air cooling via heat sinks and fans is used for heat extraction and heat rejection into the room. Holistic thermodynamic models are developed using system and component physics to facilitate the prediction of the energy consumption and heat-transfer phenomenon in a data center. These models help technologists understand the distribution of energy consumption for cooling purposes among various components of a facility. Finally, we provide a summary of the emerging trends in data center thermodynamics.
Wage Determination in Urban Russia: Underpayment and the Gender Differential

A stochastic frontier wage equation is employed to examine labor-market efficiency and estimate workers’ potential wages in Russia after a decade of economic reforms using a nationally representative household survey. Dynamic monopsony underpayment, defined as the differences between the highest wage a worker with given characteristics could earn and the worker's actual wage, is a significant factor lowering real wages. The estimated degree of underpayment differs significantly depending on gender and substantially exceeds the estimates for Western economies. Workers’ potential wages are elastic with respect to the local cost of living. Women's mean potential wage is only 58% of men's.
Nickel(O) -induced geminal bond cleavages leading to carbon-carbon double bonds: intermediacy of nickel(O) -carbene complexes as a unifying hypothesis

Abstract The possibility of effecting geminal bond cleavages of organic monomers with nickel(O) complexes to achieve olefinic dimers has been investigated both in stochiometric reactions between monomers of the tlype R2Ce2 and R2C=E and the complexes (Cod)2Ni, (Et3P)4Ni and (Bpy)Cod)Ni and in nickel(O)-catalytic α-elimination reactions of α-lithioorganic sulfones, RR′C(Li)(SO2R″). Substrates for the stoichiometric geminal bond cleavages comprised geminal dihalides, aminomethyl sulfides, cyclopropenes, thioketones and ketones. Reductive dimerization to the olefin or its hydroxy derivatives was found to a varying degree in most cases, including the catalytic decomposition of the α-lithioorganic sulfones. Accordingly, this method offers considerable promise in organic synthesis. A gamut of known nickel(0) chemistry, results of chemical-trapping and spectroscopic evidence are marshaled in support of the proposal that such geminal bond cleavages and reductive coupling processes most likely proceed via nickel(0)-carbene intermediates of the type R2C = Ni · Ln.
Becoming Soviet Jews: The Bolshevik Experiment in Minsk

Elissa Bemporad uses a wealth of Russian and Yiddish sources (particularly archival materials) to explore how early Soviet Minsk became ‘the Jerusalem of Belorussia.' She emphasises continuities in...
Fine root dynamics in a loblolly pine forest are influenced by free-air-CO2-enrichment: a six-year-minirhizotron study

Efforts to characterize carbon (C) cycling among atmosphere, forest canopy, and soil C pools are hindered by poorly quantified fine root dynamics. We characterized the influence of free-air-CO2-enrichment (ambient 1200ppm) on fine roots for a period of 6 years (Autumn 1998 through Autumn 2004) in an 18-year-old loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) plantation near Durham, NC, USA using minirhizotrons. Root production and mortality were synchronous processes that peaked most years during spring and early summer. Seasonality of fine root production and mortality was not influenced by atmospheric CO2 availability. Averaged over all 6 years of the study, CO2 enrichment increased average fine root standing crop (123%), annual root length production (125%), and annual root length mortality (136%). Larger increase in mortality compared with production with CO2 enrichment is explained by shorter average fine root lifespans in elevated plots (500 days) compared with controls (574 days). The effects of CO2-enrichment on fine root proliferation tended to shift from shallow (0‐15cm) to deeper soil depths (15‐30) with increasing duration of the study. Diameters of fine roots were initially increased by CO2-enrichment but this effect diminished over time. Averaged over 6 years, annual fine root NPP was estimated to be 163gdwm � 2 yr � 1 in CO2-enriched plots and 130gdwm � 2 yr � 1 in control plots (P 50.13) corresponding to an average annual additional input of fine root biomass to soil of 33gm � 2 yr � 1 in CO2-enriched plots. A lack of consistent CO2 � year effects suggest that the positive effects of CO2 enrichment on fine root growth persisted 6 years following minirhizotron tube installation (8 years following initiation of the CO2 fumigation). Although CO2-enrichment contributed to extra flow of C into soil in this experiment, the magnitude of the effect was small suggesting only modest potential for fine root processes to directly contribute to soil C storage in south-eastern pine forests.
Large velocity shears and associated electrostatic waves and turbulence in the auroral F region

Broadband electrostatic waves at 10-1000 Hz have been observed with very large shears in the plasma flow velocity transverse to the ambient magnetic field in the auroral F region. The shears were detected through their perpendicular electric field signatures, which changed by as much as 200 mV/m over distances of only a few hundred meters. Transverse shears can be uniquely related to field-aligned currents through the current continuity equation, and the resulting field-aligned drift exceeds the threshold for excitation of current-driven electrostatic ion-cyclotron waves. A numerical simulation of this instability has been used to generate electric-field spectra in the rocket frame of reference, and these spectra are similar to the spectra generated form the actual rocket data.
The elimination of malignant B lymphocytes from human bone marrow using monoclonal antibodies DLC-48 and LN-1 and human serum: a preclinical study.

Abstract Monoclonal antibodies DLC-48 and LN-1 were evaluated for use in purging malignant lymphoma cells from human bone marrow. Using a 51 Cr-release assay and sensitive clonogenic assay for the SU-DHL-2 and -4 cell lines, it was established that greater than four logs of malignant lymphoid cells can be eliminated from human bone marrow autografts with three treatments of antibody and autologous human serum at a final cell concentration of 1 × 10 7 cells/ml. A combination of DLC-48 and LN-1 was more effective than either antibody alone. Treatment with antibody and autologous serum had no effect on the growth of human hematopoietic progenitor cells. The clinical effects of marrow treatment with DLC-48 and LN-1 will be evaluated in upcoming clinical trials.
Preparation of stable and solvent-free model membranes.

Abstract A method for the preparation of solvent-free, phospholipid-impregnated filters is described. Polycarbonate filters of 13 mm diameter, 5 μm thickness and 0.1 μm pore size were employed, and 20 to 48 nmol phospholipid per filter was incorporated. Passive permeation of polar substances across the filter was determined by a flow-dialysis procedure. The presence of phospholipid led to a decrease in passive permeability by 96 – 99%. Due to their size and stability, and a partially preferential lipid orientation, these phospholipid-impregnated filters may serve as an alternative type of model membrane.
Nonparametric Threshold Model of Zero-Inflated Spatio-Temporal Data with Application to Shifts in Jellyfish Distribution

There is increasing scientific interest in studying the spatial distribution of species abundance in relation to environmental variability. Jellyfish in particular have received considerable attention in the literature and media due to regional population increases and abrupt changes in distribution. Jellyfish distribution and abundance data, like many biological datasets, are characterized by an excess of zero counts or nonstationary processes, which hampers their analyses by standard statistical methods. Here we further develop a recently proposed statistical framework, the constrained zero-inflated generalized additive model (COZIGAM), and apply it to a spatio-temporal dataset of jellyfish biomass in the Bering Sea. Our analyses indicate systematic spatial variation in the process that causes the zero inflation. Moreover, we show strong evidence of a range expansion of jellyfish from the southeastern to the northwestern portion of the survey area beginning in 1991. The proposed methodologies could be readily applied to ecological data in which zero inflation and spatio-temporal nonstationarity are suspected, such as data describing species distribution in relation to changes of climate-driven environmental variables. Some supplemental materials including an animation of jellyfish annual biomass and web appendices are available online.
Mechanical behavior of several hybrid ceramic-matrix-composite laminates

Several different hybrid laminated composites comprised of alternating layers of dense ceramic sheets (either SiC or Si3N4) and fiber-reinforced ceramic-matrix-composite (CMC) layers (Nicalon fibers with either glass or glass-ceramic matrices) have been fabricated and characterized. The effects of the reinforcement architecture (unidirectional vs cross-ply) and the relative volume fractions of the phases on the tensile and flexural properties have been examined. Comparisons have been made with the properties of the constituent layers. Rudimentary models have been developed to describe the onset of cracking and for the minimum volume fraction of CMC required to develop multiple cracks and thus obtain a high failure strain.
A porcine model predicts that a can-opener capsulotomy can be done safely in pediatric patients.

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the strength and safety of a continuous circular capsulorhexis (CCC) with a can-opener capsulotomy (COC) in a porcine model that closely resembles the high elasticity of the human pediatric lens capsule. Methods: COCs (N = 47) and CCCs (N = 102) were performed inside the anterior chamber of fresh pig eyes, and any uncontrolled tears were noted. The circumference of the initial opening was measured in 18 COCs and 13 CCCs. After the opening was stretched to the point of rupture, the circumference was measured again. The ratio of the circumference at rupture to the initial circumference, minus one, was used as a measure of the maximal capsular strain. Results: The can-opener technique produced a smooth round opening. One of the COCs (2.1%) and 23 of the CCCs (22.5%) had uncontrolled tears (c 2 , P P = .93 by Student's t test). Conclusions: The porcine capsule is more reliably opened with fewer uncontrolled tears by a COC than by a CCC. The porcine model predicts that pediatric capsules can be opened safely with a COC. (J AAPOS 1999;3:356-62)
Some studies of the effective interaction for the inelastic scattering of nucleons

Abstract The microscopic interpretation of the inelastic scattering of nucleons by nuclei is reviewed. Data for (p, p′), (nn′) and (p, n) reactions at medium energies on nuclei with simple shell-model configurations are analysed in terms of a simple effective nucleon-nucleon interaction. In many cases, a local Yukawa interaction with a range of about 1 fm, strength about 200 MeV and weak spin dependence is found to give fair agreement with the data. Discrepancies are also found, particularly for the heavy nucleus 208 Pb and for the inelastic polarization of protons. Possible deficiencies of the model are discussed in some detail. Exchange effects of the knock-on type are neglected.
The mirror neuron system and embodied simulation: Clinical implications for art therapists working with trauma survivors

Abstract Using nodal sessions in the case of a profoundly traumatized woman as an illustrative foundation, this paper explores the mutative actions of psychoanalytically informed art therapy interventions. The efficacy of these interventions, which range from subtle to active, is supported by current research in the fields of neurobiology, infant development, cognitive science, and psychoanalysis. Focus is given to the continuum of dissociation as a survival response to overwhelming trauma, the relationship of dissociative processes to implicit memory, the mirror neuron system, and embodied simulation, as well as ways that the therapist's sensitivity to the impact of trauma and dissociation on the survivor can be harnessed to promote the healing process.
Estimating Parameters from a Single Test for the Three-Dimensional Failure Criterion for Frictional Materials

AbstractThe three-dimensional failure criterion for soils was expanded to include concrete and used for rocks. The failure criterion is expressed in terms of the first and the third invariants of the stress tensor and it requires two parameters for characterization of the strength of soils and three parameters for concrete and rocks. For soils, one parameter is used to describe the opening angle of the failure surface, i.e., similar to the friction angle, and the second parameter is employed to describe the curvature of the failure surface in meridian planes that contain the hydrostatic axis. The third parameter, used for concrete and rocks, is slightly higher than the uniaxial tensile strength and is used to capture the cohesion and tensile strength. Typically, the results of three triaxial compression tests and the tensile strength from a Brazilian test or from an estimate are required for the determination of these three parameters. Careful inspection of parameters, determined from numerous high-qualit...
Morphology studies of polyaniline lengthy nanofibers formed via dimers copolymerization approach

Abstract In this paper, two different aniline dimers, N-phenyl-1,2-phenylenediamine (2-PPD) and N-phenyl-1,4-phenylenediamine (4-PPD) were used as starting monomers in polyaniline (PANI) synthesis. It was found that 2-PPD dimer alone produced only an amorphous PANI oligomer with a flaky morphology, while the 4-PPD provided either linear nanofiber or a spaghetti-like hollow nanofiber structures comprising of worm-like fibril subunits. By adjusting the molar fed ratio of 4-PPD to 2-PPD in the copolymerization, long PANI nanofibers with length up to tens of microns, bundled together by single PANI fibrils with diameter ca. 3–5 nm, was formed. A possible formation mechanism was proposed taking account of the reactivity difference at positions 4 and 2 on the 4-PPD and 2-PPD, respectively.
Patterning Spinal Motor Activity in the Absence of Synaptic Excitation

Alternate activation of antagonistic muscles across a joint is essential for movement. A new study, by Talpalar et al., in this issue of Neuron highlights the importance of spinal cord inhibitory interneurons in generating motor activity by showing that they can generate alternating flexor-extensor motor neuron firing in the absence of glutamatergic synaptic input.
How to Use the Two Sample t-Test

This work discusses how two sample t-tests behave when applied to data that may violate the classical statistical assumptions of independence, heteroscedasticity and Gaussianity. The usual two sample t-statistic based on a pooled variance estimate and the Welch-Aspin statistic are treated in detail. Practical “rules-of-thumb” are given along with their applications to various examples so that readers will easily be able to use such tests on their own data sets.
Delivery of Predialysis Care in an Academic Referral Nephrology Practice

The purpose of this study was to obtain a detailed picture of the delivery of all aspects of pre-end stage renal disease (ESRD) care in an academic nephrology practice. The study consisted of a cross-sectional review of the charts of 111 patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (Creatinine >1.5 mg/dL for males, Creatinine > 1.3 mg/dL for females) followed either in a private practice or a public hospital clinic. Charts were reviewed for evidence of a number of quality of care items including the degree of blood pressure control, the use of angiotensin II blockade, treatment of anemia, bone disease, and cardiovascular risk factors, as well as evidence of dialysis orientation and vascular access placement. Compared with previous published studies, this study shows encouraging trends towards better outcomes in at least two areas with evidence of improvement in hemoglobin levels, use of angiotensin II blockade, and degree of blood pressure control. However it also reveals many areas where care could be improved. This was particularly true in the areas of access placement, bone and mineral metabolism, and cardiovascular disease. It will be interesting to see whether the recent introduction of CKD guidelines by the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) and the associated educational initiatives for primary care physicians and nephrologists that are planned will further serve to improve the management of CKD patients in the years to come.
Time series models for forecasting wastewater treatment plant performance

Abstract This article describes a time series modeling procedure that can be useful for calculating predictions, with confidence intervals, of effluent quality 1–5 days ahead, and it explains how these predictions can serve as an early warning of process upsets that will sometimes enable an operator to take preventive action. The time series model has the form of an exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA). The interpretation of the model is that response of the system can be predicted by deviations from the EWMA smoothed values of the predictor variables.
FINITE-ENERGY SUM RULES AND THEIR APPLICATION TO $pi$N SCATTERING AT FIXED u.

The finite-energy sum rule, and a class of sum rules which can be used to probe the existence of fixed poles, are obtained for amplitudes whose left- and right-hand cuts are not related by crossing symmetry. The finite-energy sum rule is evaluated for each of four independent $\ensuremath{\pi}N$ amplitudes with $u$ fixed at ${(1236\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}\mathrm{M}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V})}^{2}$, both sides of the resultant four sum rules being obtained from the properties of the low-energy $\ensuremath{\pi}N$ resonances. Results are presented for three choices of end point: ${(1356\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}\mathrm{M}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V})}^{2}$, ${(1808\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}\mathrm{M}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V})}^{2}$, and ${(2313\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}\mathrm{M}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V})}^{2}$. For the intermediate end point, all four sum rules work. For the highest one, however, they all fail. These results, while pointing to a failure of the resonance dominance approximation above 1800 MeV, give us a new confirmation of Regge high-energy behavior on the basis of low-energy data alone. In particular, they verify in some detail the relation predicted by Reggeism between the high-energy, fixed-$u$ behavior of the amplitudes and the low-energy $u$-channel resonances. They also show that for $u={(1236 \mathrm{MeV})}^{2}$, all the $\ensuremath{\pi}N$ amplitudes have Regge behavior on the average (duality) above 1800 MeV. The finite-energy sum rules are shown to be violated in a fictitious universe where the lowest particle on each of the leading $\ensuremath{\pi}N$ Regge trajectories is accompanied by a degenerate partner of opposite parity.
CO2 and heat have different effects on directed ventilation behavior of grasshoppers Melanoplus differentialis

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that CO 2 and heat have different effects on the ventilatory pattern of grasshoppers Melanoplus differentialis . Eight grasshoppers were sealed between rostral (inspiratory) and caudal (expiratory) spiracles in separated, airtight, chambers and pressure changes were measured. Normal breathing patterns decreased pressure in the rostral chamber and increased pressure in the caudal chamber (i.e. unidirectional pumping rostral to caudal). Insects exposed to ventilatory stimulation by CO 2 or heat significantly increased pumping frequency from 26±2 (±S.E.M.) at 0% CO 2 to 54±6 breaths/min at 8% CO 2 (at 30°C), and from 27±3 at 30°C to 44±4 breaths/min at 45°C. Unidirectional pumping failed to change with increased CO 2 concentration and increased significantly with heat exposure. Thus, while CO 2 only increased pumping frequency, heat increased pumping frequency and unidirectional pumping.