cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Prognostic Impact of Body Composition for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Patients Who Received Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

Our previous study indicated that a high amount of visceral adipose tissue was associated with poor survival outcomes in patients with early breast cancer who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. However, inconsistency was observed in the prognostic role of body composition in breast cancer treatment outcomes. In the present study, we aimed to validate our previous research by performing a comprehensive body composition analysis in patients with a standardized clinical background. We included 198 patients with stage III breast cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy between January 2007 and June 2015. The impact of body composition on pathologic complete response and survival outcomes was determined. Body composition measurements had no significant effect on pathologic complete response. Survival analysis showed a low ratio of total visceral adipose tissue to subcutaneous adipose tissue (V/S ratio ≤ 34) was associated with shorter overall survival. A changepoint method determined that a V/S ratio cutoff of 34 maximized the difference in overall survival. Our study indicated the prognostic effect of body composition measurements in patients with locally advanced breast cancer compared to those with early breast cancer. Further investigation will be needed to clarify the biological mechanism underlying the association of V/S ratio with prognosis in locally advanced breast cancer.
Investigating the depth of problem-solving prompts in collaborative argumentation

To date, little is known regarding how to best design instruction/guidance prompts that support learners’ participation in collaborative argumentation (CA). To address this gap, this study compared...
Coordination Science: Challenges and Directions

Several distinct kinds of “coordination technology” have evolved to support effective coordination in cooperative work. This paper reviews some of the major weaknesses with current coordination technology and suggests several technical directions for addressing these weaknesses. These directions include developing semi-structured process representations that explicitly capture cooperative work inter-dependencies, exploiting advanced product and software design technologies for process design, and integrating coordination technologies to synergistically combine their strengths and avoid their individual weaknesses.
Deception in advertising and marketing: ethical applications in rehabilitation

A much discussed issue in contemporary discussions of health care reform is the considerable competition that is anticipated to occur among providers. An inevitable aspect of this competition will be the ways health care services are presented in the marketplace through advertising and other forms of promotional literature. Considerable concern has already emerged among certain rehabilitation professionals, however, that advertising and marketing practices in rehabilitation must cohere with ethical standards. This article will discuss certain aspects of those standards, particularly as they have evolved from the Federal Trade Commission's definition of and rulings on deceptive practices in advertising. Salient aspects of the Commission's 1983 definition of deception will be related to rehabilitation by way of examining instances of rehabilitation advertising and marketing that might satisfy the Commission's definition of deception. The article will conclude with certain recommendations, principally drawn from various Federal Trade Commission rulings, that might be useful to individuals or corporate entities who advertise or market rehabilitation services.
Power, Paradigms, and Legal Prescriptions: 'The Rule of Law' as a Necessary but Not Sufficient Condition for Transitional Justice

This essay considers the various ways that law functions to sometimes perpetuate and sometimes prevent genocide and other mass catastrophes in transitional societies. In particular, the essay examines three conceptually distinct aspects of law within a given society - the concept of law, the “rule of law” and the role (or function) of law - and posits that only by considering the interplay of these three aspects of law within transitional societies can we fully appreciate the necessity of a robust commitment to the rule of law as a bulwark against mass atrocity within transitional societies. The essay offers a response and supplement to the insights contained in David Gray’s interesting essay, "Transitional Disclosures: What Transitional Justice Reveals about Law” in which Gray thoughtfully challenges the conventional view that a commitment to the rule of law is the sole and best hope for preventing mass atrocity given the role that “law” and legal officials often play in perpetuating mass violence, and contends that dynamic stability among competing and overlapping identities (i.e. religious, ethnic, class) and associations is necessary to stave off abusive regimes. While this essay accepts the latter insight, I argue that Gray’s multi-dimensional “law as paradigm” understanding of the relationship between legal institutions and abusive norms obscures important distinctions between the concept of law, the rule of law, and the role of law. By retracing these distinctions, the essay demonstrates that a robust commitment to the rule of law is indeed a necessary (but not sufficient) condition for preventing the rise of abusive regimes, even within Gray’s own prescription.
Observing the Evolution of Typhoon Wakes

Abstract : The long-term goal of this research is to observe, understand, quantify, and parameterize upper-ocean mixing for use in global ocean modeling. The objective of our research program is to observe the temporal and spatial evolution of typhoon cold wakes. In particular, we directly observed the mixing associated with turbulence generated by the strong air-sea interactions in a typhoon. These observations will be used to make quantifiable assessments of mixed layer models under the extreme conditions of a typhoon. We also observed the restratification of the cold wake from air-sea fluxes and lateral mixing by sub-mesoscale eddies. We made these observations from a ship-based survey of the evolution of the typhoon cold wake that was undertaken to observe the restratification and collapse of the wake after the passage of a typhoon in the Western Pacific Ocean. The cold wake survey utilized a towed profiling sensor and a tethered turbulence package. Also, we developed Seagliders with microstructure sensors to examine the structure of the cold wake.
Turnover of mature miRNAs and siRNAs in plants and algae.

microRNAs (miRNAs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) play important roles in gene regulation and defense responses against transposons and viruses in eukaryotes. These small RNAs generally trigger the silencing of cognate sequences through a variety of mechanisms, including RNA degradation, translational inhibition and transcriptional repression. In the past few years, the synthesis and the mode of action of miRNAs and siRNAs have attracted great attention. However, relatively little is known about mechanisms of quality control during small RNA biogenesis as well as those that regulate mature small RNA stability. Recent studies in Arabidopsis thaliana and Caenorhabditis elegans have implicated 3′-to-5′ (SDNs) and 5′-to-3′ (XRN-2) exoribonucleases in mature miRNA turnover and the modulation of small RNA levels and activity. In the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a nucleotidyltransferase (MUT68) and an exosome subunit (RRP6) are involved in the 3′ untemplated uridylation and the degradation of miRNAs and siRNAs. The latter enzymes appear to function as a quality control mechanism to eliminate putative dysfunctional or damaged small RNA molecules. Several post-transcriptional modifications of miRNAs and siRNAs such as 3′ terminal methylation and untemplated nucleotide additions have also been reported to affect small RNA stability. These collective findings are beginning to uncover a new layer of regulatory control in the pathways involving small RNAs. We anticipate that understanding the mechanisms of mature miRNA and siRNA turnover will have direct implications for fundamental biology as well as for applications of RNA interference technology.
A Time-Dependent, Three-Dimensional Neutron Transport Methodology

An improved quasi-static method is applied to the time-dependent, three-dimensional neutron transport equation with explicit representation of delayed neutrons. The relevant equations are derived, and the corresponding implementation of the method is presented. The resulting new code, which uses a three-dimensional, discrete ordinates code (TORT) to solve the static fixed-source equations, is tested using transient benchmark problems that are available in the literature. Results obtained with the new time-dependent code, named TDTORT, are in satisfactory agreement with the benchmark problem results.
Selective expression of high-affinity nerve growth factor receptors on tyrosine hydroxylase-containing neuron-like cells in neural crest cultures

A subpopulation of cultured neural crest cells undergoing differentiation have receptors for nerve growth factor (NGF) that exhibit a binding constant similar to that of the low-affinity NGF binding site (3.2 nM). Recent studies have shown that NGF receptors are not present on neuron-like cells immunoreactive for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), serotonin, or vasoactive intestinal polypeptide. Since tissues innervated by sympathetic neurons in vivo produce NGF, we sought to determine whether NGF deficits in the tissue culture microenvironment may be one parameter preventing the expression of NGF receptors on TH-containing neuron-like cells. Neural crest cultures were therefore grown in complete tissue culture medium (15% fetal bovine serum and 5% chicken embryo extract), with or without exogenous NGF (50 ng/ml). Examination of light-microscopic radioautographs following incubation with 125I-NGF revealed that, if the cultures were supplemented with NGF for 7 d, approximately 33% of neuron-like cells exhibiting TH-like immunoreactivity possessed NGF receptors. There were no obvious morphological differences between TH-containing cells that did or did not have NGF receptors. Scatchard analysis of cultures grown under these conditions again demonstrated the sole presence of the low- affinity form of the NGF receptor (Kd, 3.4 nM). Embryonic catecholaminergic sympathetic neurons exhibit both high- and low- affinity forms of the NGF receptor, raising the possibility that the Scatchard analysis may not have been sensitive enough to detect the high-affinity form of the receptor on a relatively small population of cells. Therefore we used a morphological approach that took advantage of the different dissociation rates of the 2 receptor types.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Introduction to research activities on traceable force measurements below 10 μN in center for measurement standards

This paper introduces the research activities on traceable force measurements below 10 micronewton in Center for Measurement Standards (CMS), Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). The introduction includes a force measurement system based on a torsion pendulum for the calibration of radiation pressure force and electrostatic force, and another force calibration system based on a flex-pivot mechanical structure which allows the comparison between milligram scale deadweight force and electrostatic force. The principles and recent progresses of these research activities will be presented.
W. E. B. DU BOIS'S CONTRIBUTIONS TO U.S. ECONOMICS (1893–1910)

As a graduate student, Du Bois studied with two of the most important figures within what is today remembered as the German historical school of economics—Gustav Schmoller and Adolf Wagner. By taking seriously Du Bois's early ambitions in the field of economics, and rereading his early work as a social scientist in the context of early twentieth-century economic thought, the following article makes the case that Du Bois should be credited with having made several important contributions to U.S. economics. The article suggests that our failure to remember Du Bois as an economist is a joint consequence of two independent causes. The first is the racist attitudes of the U.S. academy of his time that simply would not accept a highly qualified African American as a colleague. The second is the sweeping changes that have so profoundly modified the method, form, and substance of U.S. economics over the past century.
Gene Network Analysis in Amygdala following Taste Aversion Learning in Rats

Conditioned taste aversion (CTA) is an adaptive behavior that benefits survival of animals including humans and also serves as a powerful model to study the neural mechanisms of learning. Memory formation is a necessary component of CTA learning and involves neural processing and regulation of gene expression in the amygdala. Many studies have been focused on the identification of intracellular signaling cascades involved in CTA, but not late responsive genes underlying the long-lasting behavioral plasticity. In this study, we explored in silico experiments to identify persistent changes in gene expression associated with CTA in rats. We used oligonucleotide microarrays to identify 248 genes in the amygdala regulated by CTA. Pathway Studio and IPA software analyses showed that the differentially expressed genes in the amygdala fall in diverse functional categories such as behavior, psychological disorders, nervous system development and function, and cell-to-cell signaling. Conditioned taste aversion is a complex behavioral trait which involves association of visceral and taste inputs, consolidation of taste and visceral information, memory formation, retrieval of stored information, and extinction phase. In silico analysis of differentially expressed genes is therefore necessary to manipulate specific phase/stage of CTA to understand the molecular insight.
Diminished muscarinic receptor-stimulated [3H]-PIP2 hydrolysis in alzheimer's disease

Abstract The functional integrity of the cortical muscarinic receptor (MR) - mediated phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP 2 )-specific phospholipase C signalling pathway was assessed in Alzheimer disease (AD) and age-matched control subjects. There was no difference in the basal hydrolysis of [ 3 H]-PIP 2 to [ 3 H]-inositol phosphates between control and AD membrane preparations. However, muscarinic agonist-stimulated PIP 2 hydrolysis was significantly diminished in the AD cases. Diminished agonist-stimulated PIP 2 hydrolysis correlated with the loss in high affinity agonist binding (K L /K H ratio) to the M1 muscarinic receptor subtype in the disease. These data further support the hypothesis that muscarinic receptor-mediated signal transduction is altered in AD, and that the defect lies at the level of muscarinic receptor-G protein/effector coupling.
Chasing gravitational waves

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory in the USA is searching for gravitational-wave emissions from cataclysmic astrophysical events. The task has required the construction of the world's largest and most sensitive optical strain sensor.
Determinants of virulence in the pathogenic fungi

To understand the origin of virulence among pathogenic fungus is important to consider both the host the ecologic riche of the microbe involved. Host-associated pathogenic fungi (eg commensals such as Candida albicans) generally cause disease only in situtations where there is a disruption of the host-microbe relationship. On the other hand, pathogenic fungi acquired from the environment typically cause disease in impaired hosts, after exposure to large infective inocula, and/or when a more virulent variant emerges. Animal and plant pathogenic fungi acquired from the environment probably face similar selection pressures from physical conditions, microbial competition and predators such as amoebae. For some human pathogenic fungi the determinants of virulence (virulence factors) appear to have been selected for environmental survival and function in mammalian virulence more by accident or happenstance, than design. Given that many emerging infectious diseases reflect interspecies and cross-kingdom jumps in pathogenicity an enhanced understanding of the determinants of virulence in animal and plant pathogenic fungi could help anticipate and prepare for future microbial threats.
Liquid level control in an aerated continous‐flow fermentor

An electronic liquid level control system was developed to maintain constant working volume in a continuously fed and aerated fermentor from which spent medium was continously withdrawn by microfiltration in an external recycle loop. The level control system was comprised of an admittance sensor in the fermentor and an external transmitter and controller, which together regulated the speed of a recycle pump and thus the rate of liquid withdrawal from the fermentor. During test bacterial culture the liquid level was maintained usually within +/- 1% and always within +/- 5%. The control system could be applied to various other types and scales of continuous-flow fermentors.
Confirmed, unconfirmed, and false allegations of abuse made by adults with mental retardation who are members of a class action lawsuit☆

OBJECTIVE: The purpose is to explore differences in confirmed, unconfirmed, and false allegations of abuse made by consumers with mental retardation in regards to type of abuse and perpetrator. METHOD: Interviews were conducted with 1,220 people with mental retardation who were part of a class action lawsuit in North Carolina. A content analysis of abuse allegations was performed. Frequencies of responses and subgroup differences are reported for type of abuse allegation and perpetrator. RESULTS: Unconfirmed claims are the most frequent. Females made more allegations of abuse than males in general, and more allegations of rape. There are no significant differences among the subgroups (confirmed, unconfirmed, and false allegations) by type of abuse allegation. There are significant differences among the subgroups in regard to the alleged perpetrator. Other consumers with mental retardation are most frequently accused of confirmed assaults. Staff members are most frequently accused in false allegations. CONCLUSION: Ability of the alleged victim to report information and timing of the investigation are important factors in substantiating abuse. Awareness of consumer-to-consumer violence and prevalence of false accusations against staff necessitates increased safeguards for both consumers and staff. Language: en
Are women reservoirs of traditional plant knowledge? Gender, ethnobotany and globalization in northeast Brazil

This study examines the degree to which knowledge of traditional plant medicine is gendered among communities settled near Chapada Diamantina National Park in eastern Bahia state, northeast Brazil. Employing a quantitative analysis of a sample plant pharmacopoeia, I focus on the relationship between gender, age and the socioeconomic impacts of globalization in this tropical region. Results indicate that women are more familiar with both the field identities and the medicinal values of the local flora than are men. This division is pronounced among older participants (30–80 years) who represent a reservoir of medicinal plant knowledge that is in danger of disappearing. I suggest that this heightened understanding among women is due to historical gender divisions of space and labour; the inherently high potential for medicinal plant identification and collection in anthropogenic habitats; and the role of women as primary healthcare givers for the family.
On kinematic, thermodynamic, and kinetic coupling of a damage theory for polycrystalline material

Abstract The paper proposes a new consistent formulation of polycrystalline finite-strain elasto-plasticity coupling kinematics and thermodynamics with damage using an extended multiplicative decomposition of the deformation gradient that accounts for temperature effects. The macroscopic deformation gradient comprises four terms: thermal deformation associated with the thermal expansion, the deviatoric plastic deformation attributed to the history of dislocation glide/movement, the volumetric deformation gradient associated with dissipative volume change of the material, and the elastic or recoverable deformation associated with the lattice rotation/stretch. Such a macroscopic decomposition of the deformation gradient is physically motivated by the mechanisms underlying lattice deformation, plastic flow, and evolution of damage in polycrystalline materials. It is shown that prescribing plasticity and damage evolution equations in their physical intermediate configurations leads to physically justified evolution equations in the current configuration. In the past, these equations have been modified in order to represent experimentally observed behavior with regard to damage evolution, whereas in this paper, these modifications appear naturally through mappings by the multiplicative decomposition of the deformation gradient. The prescribed kinematics captures precisely the damage deformation (of any rank) and does not require introducing a fictitious undamaged configuration or mechanically equivalent of the real damaged configuration as used in the past.
Design of a minimal polypeptide unit for bacteriochlorophyll binding and self-assembly based on photosynthetic bacterial light-harvesting proteins.

We introduce LH1β24, a minimal 24 amino acid polypeptide that binds and assembles bacteriochlorophylls (BChls) in micelles of octyl β-glucoside (OG) into complexes with spectral properties that resemble those of B820, a universal intermediate in the assembly of native purple bacterial light-harvesting complexes (LHs). LH1β24 was designed by a survey of sequences and crystal structures of bacterial LH proteins from different organisms combined with currently available information from in vitro reconstitution studies and genetically modified LHs in vivo. We took as a template for the design sphβ31, a truncated 31 amino acid analogue of the native β-apoprotein from the core LH complex of Rhodobacter sphaeroides. This peptide self-assembles with BChls to form B820 and, upon cooling and lowering OG concentration, forms red-shifted B850 spectral species that are considered analogous to native LH complexes. We find that LH1β24 self-assembles with BChl in OG to form homodimeric B820-type subunits comprising two L...
Antenatal diagnosis of choledochal cyst: the first four cases

Four infants in whom choledochal cyst was diagnosed by maternal ultrasound examinations are reviewed. The infants, from different institutions, represent a spectrum with regard to clinical presentation and subsequent course. They show that choledochal cyst can develop at different stages of gestation and is often not associated with biliary obstruction or biliary atresia. Definitive surgery can be safely performed in the neonatal period and is the treatment of choice. Follow-up data indicate that despite marked differences in the initial severity of their hepatic parenchymal disease, all four infants have done well in their early years, with essentially normal liver function. These unique patients provide insights into the possible etiology and pathophysiology of choledochal cyst and suggest guidlines for future evaluation and management of such infants.
Efficacy and Safety Evaluation of Ozonation to Degrade Aflatoxin in Corn

: This study determined the efficacy and safety of ozonation in degrading aflatoxin in corn. Ozonation (10 to 12 wt%) reduced aflatoxin levels by 92% and no reversion to the parent compound was observed. Ozonation had minimal effect on fatty acids of uncontaminated corn, but had significant effect on fatty acids of contaminated corn. Crude extracts showed no mutagenic potential in the Ames assay using TA98 and TA100. Clean-up using hexane increased their mutagenic potentials. Clean-up using Mycosep columns increased the mutagenic potentials 18 to 617%. Hexane extracts from ozone-treated contaminated corn had lower inhibitory effect. This suggested that a fat-soluble mutagen is being formed or natural inhibitors of mutagenicity are being destroyed.
DC terminal impedance modeling of LCC-based HVDC converters

Stability of the dc bus voltage in high-voltage dc (HVDC) transmission systems is a critical problem, and depends on the control of each HVDC terminal, as well as on the dynamics of the dc network. The HVDC converter at each terminal can be represented by an impedance together with a voltage or current source. Such impedance models can then be combined with the impedance of the dc network to provide a system model for small-signal stability analysis. This paper presents small-signal impedance modeling of line-commutated converters (LCC) for such HVDC system stability analysis. The impedance models are developed by using the harmonic linearization method and taking into account the ac grid impedance as well as control of the converter. Rectifiers and inverters are modeled separately by assuming different control modes. The developed models are provided in analytical forms and validated by detailed circuit simulation.
By Invitation Only: Social Work Involvement at the End of Life in Long-Term Care

ABSTRACT This qualitative study used three focus groups of long-term care social workers to determine how they viewed their roles with dying residents. Using grounded theory methodology, social workers were found to have difficulty articulating their roles; social work involvement occurred most often at the request of other staff, specifically nursing; hospice involvement contributed positively to end-of-life care but makes the social work role less clear; and elements of time and space influence the end-of-life experience for long-term care social workers, residents, and family members. Findings suggested that the social work profession must step forward in articulating the social work role and that research to validate the value of social work involvement is needed.
The Otolaryngologist–Ophthalmologist Relationship: An Historic Perspective

Otolaryngology and ophthalmology have a long and congenial professional relationship in the development of their mutual specialties over many years. In the early years they were one professional society, but later split into their separate specialties. Some problems involve both specialties because of the shared common anatomic areas. These problems include: orbital complications of sinusitis, management of exopthalmus, silent sinus syndrome, lacrimal apparatus problems, tumor and trauma problems, optic nerve decompression, and complications of endoscopic sinus surgery. Both specialties have their own expertise to contribute to these common problems. In many cases it is in the best interest of the patient if both specialties consult and contribute their knowledge, experience, and techniques in these cases. Otolaryngologists and opthalmologists continue their long and mutually respected professional relationship.
Balances and accounts of online banking users: a study of two US financial institutions

Serving customers' banking needs online has been proposed to be a cost-saving move for the Financial Institution (FI). These same online services have also been posited to result in higher customer value for the FI. This study analyses the records of two FIs (totalling over 500 000 users) to determine the elements of behaviour and demographics that explain the differential value. Actual execution of online transactions is found to contribute most highly to customer value, along with use of checks, customer age, tenure with the FI and use of other transaction channels.
The Fatty Acid Composition of Egg Yolk Lipids from Two Strains of Bobwhite Quail

Abstract The pattern of fatty acid incorporation in yolk neutral and polar lipid fractions from two strains of quail have been reported. A significant strain effect was observed in the concentration of both stearic and oleic acids of the neutral lipids. No significant strain differences were detected in the fatty acid content of the polar lipids from the two strain of quail. The results obtained are in general agreement with those reported for the fatty acid content of chicken egg yolks.
Selecting peptides for use in nanoscale materials using phage-displayed combinatorial peptide libraries

Materials that combine inorganic components and biological molecules provide a new paradigm for synthesizing nanoscale and larger structures with tailored physical properties. These synthesis techniques utilize the molecular recognition properties of many biological molecules to nucleate and control growth of the nanoscale structure. Phage-displayed peptide libraries are a powerful tool to identify peptides that selectively recognize and bind to a variety of inorganic surfaces that are utilized in electronic and photonic devices. These libraries have been used extensively to study the peptide-mediated nucleation and growth of some metallic and semiconducting materials, and the application to designed nanostructures has been demonstrated.
City size, land rent, and the supply of public goods

Abstract The influence of market forces, access costs and public finance on city size is studied. Extensions of the basic model are considered.
Growth suppression of human ovarian cancer cell lines by the introduction of a p16 gene via a recombinant adenovirus.

Abstract Objective. The cell cycle regulatory protein p16 (CDKN2/cyclin dependent kinase 4 inhibitor/multiple tumor suppressor-1) causes cell cycle arrest at the G1 checkpoint by inhibiting activity of cyclin D-CDK4 complexes. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of introduction of the p16 gene into two ovarian cancer cell lines via a recombinant adenoviral vector (Ad5CMV-p16). Methods. Cells lines used were SKOV 3 , which has a p16 deletion, and OVCA420, which has normal p16. Transduction efficiency was established by infecting cells with an adenovirus containing the Escherichia coli β-galactosidase gene (Ad5CMV-β-gal) at multiplicity of infection from 0 to 1000 and staining for X-gal. Cells were infected with Ad5CMV-p16 and cell growth was assessed by counting cells every other day for up to 7 days. Western blotting was done to assess for p16 expression after infection. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting after staining with propidium iodide was done to assess the effect of p16 on the cell cycle. Results. The SKOV3 cell line was transduced with the adenovirus at a slightly lower MOI than the OVCA420 cell line. Growth of the Ad5CMV-p16-infected cells was suppressed 75–80% by cell count in both cell lines and caused morphologic changes of the cells consistent with apoptosis. The p16 protein expression was seen to increase within 24 h after introduction of the p16 gene. G1 arrest of cells occurred beginning 24 h after introduction of the p16 gene. Conclusions. These results suggest that Ad5CMV-p16 may be further studied as a potential therapeutic agent for ovarian cancer as introduction of the p16 gene into ovarian cancer cell lines causes a G1 arrest and attenuation of growth, regardless of the endogenous p16 status of the cells.
Acts of Recognition: Gesture and National Identity in Agnes de Mille's 'Civil War Ballet'

Through both her dances and writings Agnes de Mille explored what it means to be American. I argue that, in addition to the explicitly America-themed material de Mille chose, her choreography performs national identity through its use of gesture – informed by de Mille’s interest in folk dance and the collective unconscious. When looking at much of de Mille’s choreography, one is visually struck by its Americanness. It is this act of recognition that begins this enquiry: how does one see de Mille’s choreography and recognize its intrinsic Americanness? How did de Mille’s choreographic process allow for the expression of national identity through gesture? These questions are explored through an analysis of de Mille’s ‘Civil War Ballet’ from Bloomer Girl (1944).
Microtubule dynamics: new surprises from an old MAP

Dis1/XMAP215 family microtubule-binding proteins are essential for cell division in animals, plants and fungi, suggesting a conserved cell-division mechanism used by all eukaryotes. Two new studies, however, reveal that different family members can have very different effects on microtubule dynamics.
Association Between Number of Physician Visits and Influenza Vaccination Coverage Among Diabetic Adults With Access to Care

OBJECTIVE —The proportion of diabetic adults that receives the influenza vaccine is less than ideal. This study determined the relationship between the number of physician visits in the previous 12 months and the likelihood of influenza vaccination among diabetic adults with access to care. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS —Data on 1,807 diabetic adults with access to care in the 1999 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were analyzed. Prevalence of influenza vaccination was determined by number of physician visits. Logistic regression was used to determine the independent association between number of physician visits and influenza vaccination coverage, controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, income, employment census region, and comorbidity. STATA was used for analyses to account for the complex sampling design of NHIS. RESULTS —Overall, 56% of subjects received the influenza vaccine. Proportions vaccinated by number of physician visits were as follows: 35% (no visit), 47% (1–3 visits), 58% (4–9 visits), and 61% (≥10 visits). Compared with people with no physician visit, people with 4–9 visits (odds ratio [OR] 2.61) and ≥10 visits (2.96) were significantly more likely to be vaccinated. However, after controlling for covariates, only people with ≥10 visits (2.34) were significantly more likely to be vaccinated. CONCLUSIONS —In this nationally representative sample, repeated physician visits by diabetic adults with access to care were associated with only modest increases in influenza vaccination coverage. In adjusted analysis, odds of influenza vaccination were not significantly associated with number of physician visits, except in people with ≥10 visits.
Flupoxam Induces Classic Club Root Morphology but Is Not a Mitotic Disrupter Herbicide

Flupoxam, an herbicide representative of a powerful new class of herbicides intended for control of broad-leaved weeds in cereals, has been identified as a mitotic disrupter herbicide. Flupoxam was evaluated on watercress seedlings for evidence of antimicrotubule effects characteristic of mitotic disrupter herbicides. At 1 μM, flupoxam inhibited root elongation and induced club root morphology. However, examination by light microscopy and tubulin immunofluorescent microscopy revealed that flupoxam is not a mitotic disrupter herbicide.
Microcomputer competency requirements in the accounting industry: A pilot study

Abstract The significant changes in the accounting environment resulting from the expanding use of microcomputers suggests a need for an evaluation of the changing requirements placed on universities in educating accounting students. The purpose of this paper is to update information on how microcomputers are being used in public accounting and in industry and to report on the investigation of the resulting microcomputer competency requirements as defined from the perspective of those companies. There have been many attempts to define computer literacy (or competency) from a pedagogical point of view (see Barger [1983]). Herbert Simon [1983] explained the term, computer literacy, as a part of “a broader problem that has been with us for a long time … the problem of quantitative literacy for the population of the technical world.” Ijiri [1983] saw the problem as one of moving from illustrative methods of teaching that rely on the students' inductive abilities to the “algorithmic” method of instruction that utilizes the computer's powerful deductive abilities. In this study, however, microcomputer competency is defined in terms of the specific requirements of the accounting industry. The depth and breadth of desired knowledge for graduating accountants relating to broad microcomputer topics as well as specific concepts considered important by prospective employers are investigated. The normative question of curriculum development is not discussed, although the information presented may assist those involved in developing curricula in reaction to this important change in the accounting environment.
Synthetic Approaches to 2-Pyrrolidinone-5-carboxaldehyde

Abstract We have examined routes for the preparation of 2-pyrrolidinone-5S-carboxaldehyde which include oxidation of 5-hydroxymethyl-2-pyrrolidinone and reduction of 5-oxoproline ethyl ester. Only the oxidation route proved satisfactory. Moffatt oxidation was most efficient but PCC oxidation gave modest yields of the desired aldehyde.
Role of residue packing in protein folding

Abstract In modern biology, the generation of three-dimensional (3D) structures of proteins from their primary sequences has become critical for our understanding of not only the structure-function of proteins but also protein-protein interactions. In order to address this problem, it is essential to identify residues in the primary sequence that are in contact in the 3D protein structure. Distance-based and surface-based methods have been used to identify residues that are in contact for a given residue of a globular protein structure. In these methods, a data set of high-resolution, 3D, protein structures was used for the analysis. The purpose of these methods is to generate a residue–residue interaction preference value (potential) for each pair of amino acids. Finally, a method of identifying the residues in the primary sequence that might be in contact in the 3D fold of the protein is discussed.
Nitrogen isotope composition of ammonium and nitrate in bulk precipitation and forest throughfall

Abstract The stable nitrogen isotope composition of ammonium (NH+ 4) and nitrate (NO− 3) ions in bulk precipitation and forest throughfall was determined at Walker Branch watershed, a low elevation site (340 m) in northeastern Tennessee, and in cloud water from Whitetop Mountain, a high elevation site (1680 m) in southwestern Virginia. Tests of the method used indicated that sample processing did not introduce significant isotopic fractionation in measurements of nitrogen isotope composition. Mean δ15N values for NH+ 4 and NO− 3 in solutions of artificial rain were within 0.3%o of the mean δ15N values of nitrogen compounds used to make the solutions. Over a one-year period on Walker Branch watershed, the measured mean (± SD) δ15N value for NH+ 4 in bulk precipitation and throughfall (− 3.4 ± 2.1%o) was significantly less than that for NO− 3(+ 2.3 ± 2.4%o). The same relative pattern was observed in cloud water from Whitetop Mountain: mean (± SD) δ15N in cloud water NH+ 4 was −5.5 ± 3.2%o; i.e., isotopicall...
Publishing systematic, pragmatic case studies in program evaluation: rationale and introduction to the special issue

Abstract The present Special Issue proposes that the creation of a database of systematic, pragmatically focused case studies in program planning and evaluation will be useful to both theorist and practitioner. This knowledge-base can (a) facilitate cross-case comparisons for inductively deriving generalizations of best practice; (b) allow practitioners to use the experience of past cases to guide their practice in present cases; and (c) further explore the foundational nature of evaluation as a discipline. This introduction first explores why there are so few published evaluation case studies. It then describes the development of a pragmatic paradigm, including a common analytic framework for facilitating the conduct, documentation, and discussion of individual case studies and for organizing them into a database. The introduction concludes with a cross-case summary comparison of the three cases in this first part of the Special Issue. In the next issue of this journal, a second part of the Special Issue will be presented. This will include three additional case studies and an analysis of all six of the case studies in terms of what we have learned about the theoretical and practical values—as well as the challenges—of creating a database of systematic, pragmatic case studies in evaluation.
A retrodirective null-scanning array

A full-duplex self-steering array using power detection and phase shifting is presented. The system utilizes two sub-arrays to autonomously steer its beam toward an interrogating signal. A two-element null-scanning array is used for power detection where the interrogator direction is determined by the location where minimum power is detected. Retrodirectivity is reported for angles of 0°, −30°, and +10° at a receive frequency of 7.31 GHz and a transmit frequency of 7.33 GHz.
P01-199 Subthreshold manifestations of bipolar disorders as health care’s tool

Introdution Our study represents a pilot evaluation about how the MOOD-SR recognizes subthreshold manifestations that may be associated with clinical symptomatology in a group of bipolar patients. Methods At Day Hospital of Psychiatry, Policlinico “A. Gemelli”, Bipolar Disorders Unit, it has been conducted an experimental study on a heterogeneous sample of 24 patients with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder type I. Patients have been assessed with the MOOD-SR, a clinical self-reported interview, that is specific for the spectrum of subthreshold pathology, and with the Quality of Life (QoL), that investigates the patient's quality of life. Results We have found that 16 patients on 24 report a score higher than 60 (68,4%). Among these, 10 female patients on 15 have a total score higer than 61 (68.75%) while 6 male patients on 9 obtain a total score higher than 60 (62,5%). However, these results have only preliminary value, further studies are needed in order to obtain a deeper evaluation. Conclusion Spectrum manifestations are both indicator of course and response to treatment and predictive for relapse. This finding may represent an important preventive instrument for maniacal relapse in patients with Bipolar Disorder, that is often underdiagnosed or confused for Unipolar Depression. By adequately recognizing the problem we will be able to refine diagnosis and individualize therapy.
Base resistance measurements in HBTs using base-emitter reverse bias breakdown

Abstract A method is presented which allows the determination of base resistance in HBTs through simple d.c. measurements. This technique uses the current-voltage characteristics of the base-emitter junction in the reverse bias breakdown regime. Extracted values of R B are shown to be consistent with values obtained from a.c. microwave techniques, as well as with values computed on the basis of HBT geometry.
Air quality and the selective detection of ammonia in the presence of carbon monoxide, toluene, benzene, and xylene

Air quality is an important factor especially in areas where humans are exposed to animal excrement. The selective detection of NH3, especially in the presence of CO provides an important means of protecting the health of workers in the dairy, swine, and poultry industries especially in enclosed barn areas. In addition, selective non-invasive detection of NH3 can play an important role in breath analysis especially for asthmatics. We assess the sensitivity of a variety of untreated and decorated porous silicon (PS) interfaces to NH3 at room temperature in the presence of carbon monoxide, toluene, benzene, and xylene. Interfaces, selective ranging from 102 105 for NH3, are demonstrated. The reversible interaction of NH3 with a PS interface completely overwhelms that for CO. A SnOx-decorated PS interface is used to evaluate the NH3-toluene system as the much weaker toluene signal corresponds to that of a weak base. SnOx and AuxO(x> > 1) decorated and PS interfaces are used to evaluate the NH3-benzene system as a much weaker benzene signal corresponds to that of a weak acid. A SnOx decorated PS interface is used to evaluate the NH3-xylene system as a much weaker xylene signal corresponds to that of a weak base.
Cav3-type α1T calcium channels mediate transient calcium currents that regulate repetitive firing in Drosophila antennal lobe PNs

Projection neurons (PNs), located in the antennal lobe region of the insect brain, play a key role in processing olfactory information. To explore how activity is regulated at the level of single PNs within this central circuit we have recorded from these neurons in adult Drosophila melanogaster brains. Our previous study demonstrated that PNs express voltage-gated calcium currents with a transient and sustained component. We found that the sustained component is mediated by cac gene-encoded Cav2-type channels involved in regulating action potential-independent release of neurotransmitter at excitatory cholinergic synapses. The function of the transient calcium current and the gene encoding the underlying channels, however, were unknown. Here we report that the transient current blocked by prepulse inactivation is sensitive to amiloride, a vertebrate Cav3-type channel blocker. In addition PN-specific RNAi knockdown of α1T, the Drosophila Cav3-type gene, caused a dramatic reduction in the transient current without altering the sustained component. These data demonstrate that the α1T gene encodes voltage-gated calcium channels underlying the amiloride-sensitive transient current. Alterations in evoked firing and spontaneous burst firing in the α1T knockdowns demonstrate that the Cav3-type calcium channels are important in regulating excitability in adult PNs.
Electron screening and its effects on big-bang nucleosynthesis

We study the effects of electron screening on nuclear reaction rates occurring during the big-bang nucleosynthesis epoch. The sensitivity of the predicted elemental abundances on electron screening is studied in detail. It is shown that electron screening does not produce noticeable results in the abundances unless the traditional Debye-H\"uckel model for the treatment of electron screening in stellar environments is enhanced by several orders of magnitude. This work rules out electron screening as a relevant ingredient to big-bang nucleosynthesis, confirming a previous study [see Itoh et al., Astrophys. J. 488, 507 (1997)] and ruling out exotic possibilities for the treatment of screening beyond the mean-field theoretical approach.
MODSIM III—a tutorial

This tutorial introduces the MODSIM III language, showing how its simulation "world view" together with its object-oriented architecture and built in graphics contribute to successful simulation model building.