cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Nitrogen Fertilization on the Growth, Composition and Yield of Upland and Lowland Taro (Colocasia esculenta)

The effects of nitrogen fertilization on growth, nutrient uptake and yields of upland and lowland taro were studied on the island of Kauai, applying o, 280, 560 and 1120 kg./ha. N. Nitrogen concentrations of upland and lowland taro leaves were significantly correlated with yields, although regression analysis showed that per cent N in both blades and petioles decreased with age. Higher yields were obtained from the lowland than from the upland crop, regardless of amounts of N fertilizer applied. The highest yield obtained from lowland taro was at 1120 kg./ha. N harvested at fifteen months (57·6 tons/ha.) and from upland taro the highest yield was obtained at 560 kg./ha. N harvested also at fifteen months (25·5 tons/ha.).
Regulation and Function of Cytochrome c′ in Rhodobacter sphaeroides 2.4.3

Cytochrome c′ (Cyt c′) is a c-type cytochrome with a pentacoordinate heme iron. The gene encoding this protein in Rhodobacter sphaeroides 2.4.3, designated cycP, was isolated and sequenced. Northern blot analysis and β-galactosidase assays demonstrated that cycP transcription increased as oxygen levels decreased and was not repressed under denitrifying conditions as observed in another Rhodobacter species. CO difference spectra performed with extracts of cells grown under different conditions revealed that Cyt c′ levels were highest during photosynthetic denitrifying growth conditions. The increase in Cyt c′ under this condition was higher than would be predicted from transcriptional studies. Electron paramagnetic resonance analysis of whole cells demonstrated that Cyt c′ binds NO during denitrification. Mass spectrometric analysis of nitrogen oxides produced by cells and purified protein did not indicate that Cyt c′ has NO reductase activity. Taken together, these results suggest a model where Cyt c′ in R. sphaeroides 2.4.3 may shuttle NO to the membrane, where it can be reduced.
Resistance to extinction as a function of amount of reinforcement and reinforcement schedule

Sixty rats were run in an experimental design that factorially combined large and small amounts of reinforcement with 0, 12, 24, and 56 partial-reinforcement trials given after 28 continuous-reinforcement trials in a runway. Resistance to extinction was an increasing function of number of partial-reinforcement trials under large reinforcement; under small reinforcement, the partial-reinforcement groups did not differ in extinction. The results were discussed within the framework of frustration theory.
Antiviral Mechanisms of Human Defensins

Defensins are an effector component of the innate immune system with broad antimicrobial activity. Humans express two types of defensins, α- and β-defensins, which have antiviral activity against both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. The diversity of defensin-sensitive viral species reflects a multitude of antiviral mechanisms. These include direct defensin targeting of viral envelopes, glycoproteins, and capsids in addition to inhibition of viral fusion and post-entry neutralization. Binding and modulation of host cell surface receptors and disruption of intracellular signaling by defensins can also inhibit viral replication. In addition, defensins can function as chemokines to augment and alter adaptive immune responses, revealing an indirect antiviral mechanism. Nonetheless, many questions regarding the antiviral activities of defensins remain. Although significant mechanistic data are known for α-defensins, molecular details for β-defensin inhibition are mostly lacking. Importantly, the role of defensin antiviral activity in vivo has not been addressed due to the lack of a complete defensin knockout model. Overall, the antiviral activity of defensins is well established as are the variety of mechanisms by which defensins achieve this inhibition; however, additional research is needed to fully understand the role of defensins in viral pathogenesis.
Determination of Plasma Density Profile and Other Parameters of Cylindrical Plasma Columns with an Electroacoustic Probe

A new diagnostic method based on the excitation of thermal resonances using an electroacoustic probe has been developed to determine the electron density profile and other plasma parameters of a cylindrical warm-plasma column. A coaxial electroacoustic probe is used to excite and detect the dipole and thermal resonances as the plasma density is varied. The electron density profile is expressed functionally in terms of unknown profile parameters. The profile and other parameters of the plasma column are then determined numerically based on some theoretical formulas and experimental results.
Conformally covariant nonlinear equations on tensor-spinors

We prove that to each conformally covariant equation on tensor-spinors on a Riemannian or pseudo-Riemannian manifold with spin structure one can add a nonlinear term without losing the property of conformal covariance. It follows in particular that, on a manifold of dimension n, the nonlinear Dirac equation, Pψ + λ|ψ|1/(n−1)ψ = 0, where P is the Dirac operator and λ is a constant, is conformally covariant. This generalizes a result of Gursey [1]. Some results of Orsted [2], concerning a nonlinear equation associated with the Laplacian on function, and of Branson, concerning distinguished nonlinearities associated with his modified Laplacian on differential forms [3] are also derived as particular cases of this general result.
Medical therapy for prolactinomas and somatotroph adenomas.

ABSTRACT Objective To review the current recommendations for medical treatment of prolactinomas and somatotroph adenomas. Methods The spectrum of symptoms of hyperprolactinemia and the clinical features of acromegaly are elaborated, and the various medical therapeutic options for management of prolactinomas and somatotroph adenomas are discussed. Results In patients with prolactinomas, medical therapy with a dopamine agonist constitutes the primary treatment and is usually associated with normalization of prolactin levels, tumor shrinkage, and resolution of clinical symptoms. For patients intolerant of bromocriptine, currently the only available dopamine agonist approved for prolactinomas in the United States, several other options can be explored. Somatotroph adenomas are treated first by using a transsphenoidal neurosurgical approach. For those patients not cured, medical therapy with octreotide, a somatostatin analogue, can be effective in biochemical and symptomatic control of the residual acromegaly. This medical option can be used in conjunction with radiation therapy while awaiting its effects or as the sole secondary therapy for this disorder. Conclusion Medical therapy has an important role in the management of prolactinomas and somatotroph adenomas. (Endocr Pract. 1996; 2:333-337)
Bile Collection and Intestinal Perfusion in the Restrained Chicken

Abstract Surgical procedures and apparatus for total bile collection, perfusion into the intestine, and restraining the chicken were developed. The condition of the birds was evaluated by feed consumption, egg production, total serum bilirubin, and histological examination of the liver.
Use of 3-Azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane in the Mannich Reaction

The preparation of a group of ketonic Mannich bases utilizing 3-azabicyclo(3.2.1)-octane as the amine component is described. Also reported are the syntheses of several γ-amino secondary and tertiary alcohols obtained from these Mannich bases by sodium borohydride reduction and the Grignard reaction, respectively. These compounds are being screened for possible pharmacodynamic and chemotherapeutic activity.
Ascription in Modern Societies

While “ascription” occupies a central place in Parsons' scheme, some of its positive functions in a highly differentiated system have been underemphasized. Because of its economical use of established social arrangements, ascription contributes to the performance of all of the system functions—pattern maintenance, integration, goal-attainment and adaptation. This helps to explain the prevalence of residual ascriptive elements in modern societies. The institutionalization of mass education and civil rights breaks down some ascription, but, at the same time, increases for the larger society the useability of the internal organization of its ascriptively defined groupings. Hence, ascriptive ties permeate the organization of the differentiated institutional sectors of modern society.
Authorizing Knowledge in Science and Anthropology

An analogy exists between today's “defenders” of science in the “science/culture wars” and 19th-century “defenders” of euclidean geometry. Current critics have appointed themselves as arbiters of truth in a manner analogous to that of 19th-century mathematicians and theologians who argued against noneuclidean geometry that challenge Euclid's mathematically, philosophically, and theologically entrenched fifth postulate. The science wars then and now are not about science versus antiscience, objectivity versus subjectivity, but about authority in science: what kind of science should be practiced, and who gets to define it?
ReSe2 nanotubes synthesized from sacrificial templates

ReSe2 nanotubes have been synthesized for the first time by reaction of ammonium perrhenate with Se nanotubes under hydrothermal conditions, wherein, the Se nanotubes act as sacrificial templates.
Citalopram augmentation of antipsychotic treatment in older schizophrenia patients

Background Depressive symptoms are common in older patients with schizophrenia; yet, few studies have examined the usefulness of antidepressants in this population. Objective We conducted a 10-week single-blind trial of citalopram (20–40 mg/day) vs no citalopram augmentation in 19 middle-aged and elderly patients with schizophrenia hospitalized for more than six of the last 12 months. At study-entry, the patients had been on stable doses of antipsychotics for at least two weeks, and had a 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating (HAM-D) scale score of 12 or greater. Nine patients were randomly assigned to citalopram augmentation, and 10 to no augmentation of antipsychotics. Results Patients in both groups improved on positive and negative symptoms, but the citalopram group had significantly greater improvement in HAM-D and Clinical Global Impression Scale scores than the control group. There were no major side effects. Conclusion Larger double-blind studies are needed to follow up on these preliminary findings. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The preparation and reactions of some dimetallic compounds derived from tetrachlorothiophene

Abstract The use of tetrachlorothiophene in the preparation of several dimetallic derivatives is described. Thus, 2,5-dilithiodichlorothiophene was prepared in nearly quantitative yield via a halogen-metal exchange reaction between n-butyllithium and tetrachlorothiophene. This dilithio compound was converted, also in satisfactory yield, to a dicopper derivative by reaction with CuCl or Cul in a mixture of tetrahydrofuran and ether at low temperature. Some derivatives of each of the dimetallic compounds were prepared, and among characterizations were those of IR, NMR, and mass spectrometry.
Are fathers prepared to encourage their partners to breast feed ? A study about fathers' knowledge of breast feeding

In order to study fathers' knowledge of breast feeding and its relationship with paternal factors, fathers of 92 breast feeding and 89 non-breast feeding newborns were compared. Paternal factors included previous children and the way they were fed, participation in prenatal care, attendance at prenatal classes, breast feeding information provided by health professionals, use of reading materials and interest in learning more about the subject. The results indicated that fathers had poor knowledge about breast feeding, especially those whose children were being bottle fed. After adjustments for confounders, fathers who had previous breast-fed child(ren), had attended prenatal classes and who received information about breast feeding from medical personnel had a significantly higher chance of having a better knowledge of breast feeding. It seems that fathers need to be better prepared to assume their new role as breast feeding supporters. Prenatal care was shown to be a good opportunity to improve fathers' knowledge of breast feeding.
Anatomy of a DNA replication fork revealed by reconstitution of SV40 DNA replication in vitro

Complete enzymatic replication of DNA from the simian virus 40 origin has been reconstituted with T antigen and highly purified cellular proteins. DNA polymerase-alpha/primase functions primarily to synthesize RNA-DNA primers for initiation of DNA replication at the origin and for priming each Okazaki fragment. A polymerase switching mechanism requiring replication factor C and the proliferating cell nuclear antigen allows two molecules of DNA polymerase-delta to replicate both strands of the double helix conjointly.
The induction of interferon and its messenger RNA in human fibroblasts.

Summary RNA from human fibroblasts containing mRNA for human interferon was isolated and translated with fidelity in chick fibroblast cells. RNA stimulating the synthesis of human interferon was found to sediment predominantly at 7–10S and bind to oligo(dT)-cellulose. The rate of interferon synthesis in human fibroblasts was compared to the amount of interferon specific mRNA synthesized both in cells induced by poly(I · C) and poly(I · C) in the presence of metabolic inhibitors (superinduced cells). While the production of interferon was markedly increased in superinduced cells, the measurable amount of human interferon mRNA was only slightly higher in superinduced cells when compared to those induced with poly(I · C) alone.
Validity Studies the Children'S Depression Inventory: A Comparison of Generalizability and Classical Test Theory Analyses:

Issues surrounding accurate assessment of depression in children have received much attention. However, the stability of scores from depression measures has generally been estimated using only clas...
Comparative toxicity of some selected pesticides in neonatal and adult rats.

Abstract Toxicity of two groups of pesticides was studied in adult and newborn rats. The chlorinated group of pesticides, heptachlor, chlordane, and DDT are less toxic in the newborn when compared to the adult, but phenobarbital pretreatment potentiates their toxicity in the newborn. The organophosphorus insecticide, parathion, is more toxic in the newborn when compared to adult, but phenobarbital pretreatment antagonized the toxicity of this cholinesterase inhibitor. Chlorinated pesticides are generally less toxic in the newborn, while the pesticides of the cholinesterase inhibitor group are more toxic.
A semimetal model of the normal state magnetic susceptibility and transport properties of Ba(Fe1−xCox)2As2

Abstract A simple two-band 3D model of a semimetal is constructed to determine which normal state features of the Ba(Fe 1− x Co x ) 2 As 2 superconductors can be qualitatively understood within this framework. The model is able to account in a semiquantitative fashion for the measured magnetic susceptibility, Hall, and Seebeck data, and the low temperature Sommerfeld coefficient for 0 x x . The purpose of the model is not to fit the data but to provide a simple starting point for thinking about the physics of these interesting materials. Although many of the static magnetic properties, such as the increase of the magnetic susceptibility with temperature, are reproduced by the model, none of the spin-fluctuation dynamics are addressed. A general conclusion from the model is that the magnetic susceptibility of most semimetals should increase with temperatures.
Anterior extended greater trochanteric osteotomy

A family of extended greater trochanteric osteotomies have been described, all of which provide excellent access to the intramedullary canal of the proximal femur. Anterior extended osteotomy is designed to elevate a fragment of the anterolateral femur in continuity with the anterior greater trochanter. The fragment is kept vascular by attachments of the anterior abductors and the anterior vastus lateralis. A technique of performing this osteotomy method is described. This osteotomy is particularly helpful for insertion of long uncemented stems with a distal straight tapered geometry.
Transverse-relaxation-optimized (TROSY) gradient-enhanced triple-resonance NMR spectroscopy.

Two modifications to sensitivity-enhanced gradient-selected TROSY-based triple-resonance NMR experiments are proposed that reduce the overall duration of the pulse sequences and minimize radiation damping effects on water-flipback solvent suppression. The modifications are illustrated for the HNCO-TROSY experiment, but are applicable to all triple-resonance experiments that detect proton magnetization after a reverse polarization transfer step from a (15)N spin. The methods are applied to yeast triosephosphate isomerase, a symmetric dimer with 248 amino acid residues per monomer.
The study of the effect of human chorionic gonadotrophic (HCG) hormone on the survival of adrenal medulla transplant in brain Preliminary study

Autologous adrenal cortex was completely dissected off the medula using microdissection. The adrenal medulla tissue was transplanted to the lateral ventricle in twenty-one adult rats. Group A consisting of ten animals received 200 units of HCG per 100 gram body weight daily for one week and then on every alternate day for seven weeks. The remaining rats (group B) served as control. After eight weeks the brains were removed and a volumetric study was done using histological sections. High pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with electrochemical detection for catecholamine assay of the graft was also undertaken. The graft survival in group A was significantly higher (p<0.005) than group B. The level of norepinephrine was significantly higher in group A while dopamine was higher in group B. The higher volume of graft tissue in group A suggests that HCG may help in increased survival and growth of the transplanted tissue. Higher levels of norepinephrine in group A would suggest a tendency for such grafts to be active to a greater extent with the treatment of HCG.
Bit player or powerhouse? China and stem-cell research.

Fiona Murray and Debora Spar discuss whether, in research on embryonic stem cells, for which the U.S. government currently severely restricts federal funding, China could surpass the United States in either research or commercial development.
Management Science, The Journal

These remarks are concerned with the policies of the journal of the Institute. A journal not only serves as a basis of communication for its time, but also as a monument of effort for some future age. The singularity of the title Management Science dedicates us to the proposition that a science of human administration is a real possibility. Whatever sort of monument our journal may be for the future, its keystone will consist in this conviction.
Relationships among the multiple molecular forms of rat liver glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase

Abstract 1. 1.|An improved procedure is described for the purification of rat liver glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase( d -glucose 6-phosphate:NADP + oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.49). 2. 2.|The active enzyme is formed from inactive subunits of mol. wt. 64 000. 3. 3.|The purified enzyme exists in at least three different dimeric forms of mol. wt. 130 000 which account for 90% of the total activity. These dimers can then aggregate to form tetrameric and hexameric forms which account for almost all of the remaining activity. 4. 4.|Each of the dimeric forms of the enzyme shows immunological identity with the other dimeric forms and with the higher molecular weight aggregates of these dimers when using double diffusion plates and an antiserum against the purified rat liver enzyme.
External Validation of a Substratification of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Renal Injury Scale for Grade 4 Injuries

Background The traditional American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) grading of renal injury does not adequately identify the subset of patients who are most likely to require intervention for bleeding. Recently, several high-risk criteria (HRC) for bleeding after renal injury were identified, and we sought to externally validate these criteria among patients with grade 4 renal injury. Study Design All patients presenting to a level I trauma center with blunt grade 4 renal injuries from 2003 to 2010 were reviewed, and stage was determined by the 1989 AAST staging criteria. Dependent variables included the presence of a hilar injury or any of the HRC (perirenal hematoma size, intravascular contrast extravasation, and medial or complex laceration). The primary outcome was the need for intervention (renorrhaphy, nephrectomy, or angiography) for hemodynamic instability. Results A total of 84 patients with grade 4 renal lacerations were identified. Two or more HRC were present in 18 patients (21%), and intervention for hemodynamic instability was performed in 14 patients (17%). Compared with patients with 0 or 1 HRC, those with ≥2 HRC were approximately 25 times more likely to require intervention for hemodynamic instability (odds ratio [OR]24.9, 95% CI 5.5 to 112.9, p Conclusions Among patients with blunt grade 4 renal injury, the presence of ≥2 HRC effectively predicts the need for intervention for hemodynamic instability and can be used to identify patients who require intensive monitoring. The AAST grading system for renal injury should be modified to better reflect injury severity.
Human eosinophil major basic protein causes hyperreactivity of respiratory smooth muscle: role of the epithelium

Major basic protein (MBP), one of several cationic proteins associated with the eosinophil granule, is cytotoxic to respiratory epithelium and is present in the sputum of asthmatics and on damaged bronchial epithelium from patients dying of asthma. The present experiments were performed in order to determine the effects of MBP on the responsiveness of airway smooth muscle. Rings of guinea pig trachea, in some of which the epithelium had been gently removed by rubbing, were incubated for 5 h in modified Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate solution containing buffer or human MBP (100 micrograms/ml). The tracheal rings were then suspended for isometric tension recording in organ chambers filled with Krebs-Ringer solution containing indomethacin. MBP did not affect the reactivity of rings in which the epithelium had been removed, but significantly augmented that of unrubbed rings to acetylcholine and histamine. The results suggest that MBP, by inhibiting the function of epithelial but not smooth muscle cells, causes hyperreactivity of respiratory smooth muscle, which may contribute to the hyperreactivity observed in chronic respiratory disease.
First Report of Downy Mildew Caused by Peronospora lamii on Salvia splendens and Salvia coccinea.

Angular chlorotic spots were observed on adaxial leaf surfaces of Salvia splendens (scarlet sage cvs. Empire Purple, Empire White, Red Pillar, and Red Hot Sally) and S. coccinea (scarlet or Texas sage cv. Lady in Red) in early May in Baton Rouge area nurseries. Leaf spots sometimes became necrotic and resulted in leaf drop. Abaxial leaf surfaces contained scattered patches of white mycelia with brown spores. Microscopic examination of mycelia revealed irregular dichotomously branched conidiophores with pointed tips and brown oval conidia. Conidiophores averaged 485 × 9 µm and conidia averaged 21 × 18 µm (16 to 26 × 15 to 23 µm) in dimensions. The fungus was identified as Peronospora lamii A. Braun (= P. swinglei Ellis & Everh.) based on these characters and its known occurrence on Salvia spp. and five other genera in the family Lamiaceae (2). Pathogenicity tests were performed by washing conidia from infected leaves into distilled water and mistinoculating S. coccinea cv. Lady in Red and S. splendens cv. ...
20 GHz Ultrashort Dual Wavelength Actively Mode-Locked Erbium-Doped Fiber Ring Laser

We demonstrate a stable dual-wavelength actively mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser operating at 20GHz. We use a highly nonlinear fiber in the optical cavity. Simultaneous dual wavelength pulse trains with pulse widths ~ 1ps are achieved.
Urease inhibitory activity associated with N-(n-butyl)thiophosphoric triamide is due to formation of its oxon analog.

Abstract HPLC-purified N-(n-butyl)thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) had no delectable urease inhibitory activity when tested with jack bean urease. However, considerable inhibition was associated with soil extracts when NBPT had been exposed in the soils for several hours. This activity was due to an NBPT derivative that was isolated by reverse phase HPLC. with NBPT and the derivative detected by a postcolumn system based on acid hydrolysis and phosphomolybdate complex formation. The purified derivative was shown to be highly active, giving 50% inhibition of jack bean urease at a concentration between 10 and 100 nM. Mass spectral analysis revealed the active derivative to be N-(n-butyl) phosphoric triamide. the oxon analog of NBPT.
CORRELATION OF THE EXTRACTION OF STRONTIUM NITRATE BY A CROWN ETHER WITH THE WATER CONTENT OF THE ORGANIC PHASE

Abstract A simple correlation has been observed between the extraction of strontium nitrate from nitric acid solution by cis-dicyclohexano-18-Crown-6 dissolved in a variety of oxygenated, aliphatic diluents and the molarity of water present in the organic phase. This correlation is attributed to the extraction of the hydrated nitrate ion and its solvation by the diluent, facilitated by the high concentration of dissolved water. Of the solvents studied, ketones yield the largest values of the extraction constant for a given water content, although C5 and C6 alcohols give the highest overall values.
Adaptability of Gonocoecus to Four Bacteriostatic Agents, Sodium Sulfathiazole, Rivanol Lactate, Promin, and Penicillin.∗†:

SummaryFive strains of the gonococcus were adapted to grow in gradually increased concentrations of each of the following agents: sodium sulfathiazole, rivanol lactate, promin, and penicillin. Only slight adaptation to growth was attained, however, when the strains were exposed to gradually increased concentrations of sodium sulfathiazole, rivanol lactate, and promin in combination. When penicillin was added to the above 3 drugs, none of the 5 strains developed resistance to their combined effects. Interpretation of the results and the possible clinical application of the in vitro observations are presented.
Bayesian networks for multilevel system reliability

Bayesian networks have recently found many applications in systems reliability; however, the focus has been on binary outcomes. In this paper we extend their use to multilevel discrete data and discuss how to make joint inference about all of the nodes in the network. These methods are applicable when system structures are too complex to be represented by fault trees. The methods are illustrated through four examples that are structured to clarify the scope of the problem.
Speculators and Middlemen: The Role of Flippers in the Housing Market

We study the behavior, strategy, and performance of investors who purchase homes with the intention of quickly re-selling or "ipping" them for a prot. Using detailed micro-level data on transactions in the Los Angeles metro area from 1988-2008 and a novel research design, we identify the presence of two very distinct types of ippers in the market. The rst type act as middlemen: buying at below-market prices from motivated sellers and re-selling relatively quickly. Their strategy is not based on market timing per se and, as a result, they operate throughout the market cycle and in all neighborhoods. The second type of ippers act as speculators, choosing locations and timing to hold assets during periods of rapid appreciation. These investors hold assets for longer periods of time, obtain about average prices when buying and selling, and are strongly associated with price instability in the neighborhoods that they target. Home purchases by speculators (including many newly drawn into the business during the boom), reached a peak just as market prices maxed out in 2006, and their purchase and holding decisions during this period suggest that many may not have been particularly well informed or sophisticated. Collectively, speculative activity in the Los Angeles market is strongly associated with the boom-bust cycle at both the metropolitan and neighborhood levels.
Gravity, light and plant form

Plants have evolved highly sensitive and selective mechanisms that detect and respond to various aspects of their environment. As a plant develops, it integrates the environmental information perceived by all of its sensory systems and adapts its growth to the prevailing environmental conditions. Light is of critical importance because plants depend on it for energy and, thus, survival. The quantity, quality and direction of light are perceived by several different photosensory systems that together regulate nearly all stages of plant development, presumably in order to maintain photosynthetic efficiency. Gravity provides an almost constant stimulus that is the source of critical spatial information about its surroundings and provides important cues for orientating plant growth. Gravity plays a particularly important role during the early stages of seedling growth by stimulating a negative gravitropic response in the primary shoot that orientates it towards the source of light, and a positive gravitropic response in the primary root that causes it to grow down into the soil, providing support and nutrient acquisition. Gravity also influences plant form during later stages of development through its effect on lateral organs and supporting structures. Thus, the final form of a plant depends on the cumulative effects of light, gravity and other environmental sensory inputs on endogenous developmental programs. This article is focused on developmental interactions modulated by light and gravity.
Memantine decreases hippocampal glutamate levels: a magnetic resonance spectroscopy study.

Abstract Glutamate (Glu) is associated with excitotoxic cell damage. Memantine modulates the glutamate induced excitotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease (AD). No information is available as to the influence of memantine on in vivo brain glutamate levels. Hippocampal Glu levels were measured in cognitively impaired and normal individuals ( n = 10) before and after 6 months of memantine treatment, using three dimensional high spatial resolution (0.5 cm 3 voxels) proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 3 T. These measurements were also repeated in a non-treated cognitively normal group ( n = 6). Treatment with memantine decreased Glu/Cr (creatine) ratio in the left hippocampal region. Memantine reduced hippocampal glutamate levels, which may be consistent with its anti-excitotoxic property.
Treatment of Kaposi sarcoma in children with HIV-1 infection

Background Kaposi sarcoma (KS) remains the second most frequently diagnosed HIV-related malignancy (HRM) worldwide and most common HRM in sub-Saharan Africa where HIV is most prevalent and human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), the precipitating agent for the development of KS, is endemic. The majority of KS patients would likely benefit from systemic chemotherapy in addition to the initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, as paediatric staging and treatment criteria are not readily available, there are no uniform treatment criteria. Objectives To describe the efficacy and effectiveness of current treatment options for HIV-associated KS in ART-treated paediatric populations. Search methods We used standard Cochrane methods to search electronic databases and conference proceedings with relevant search terms without limits to language. Selection criteria Randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, and case-control studies of HIV-infected infants and children <18 years old treated with ART and diagnosed with KS. Data collection and analysis Abstracts of all studies identified by electronic or bibliographic scanning were examined independently by two authors. We initially identified 920 references and examined 15 in detail for study eligibility. Data were abstracted independently using a standardised abstraction form. Main results After initially screening 920 titles, 15 full-text articles were closely examined by two authors. We identified four cohort studies that met our inclusion criteria for data extraction, coding, and potential meta-analysis. Using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Cochrane risk of bias assessments, all observational studies had cohorts that were representative of average (treated and untreated) HIV-infected children with Kaposi sarcoma. For all outcomes of interest, no study adjusted for any other potential confounders. Two of four observational studies either explicitly described complete follow up of the study participants and/or described the characteristics of the participants lost to follow up. The use of ART together with a chemotherapeutic regimen versus ART alone appears to increase the likelihood of KS remission in HIV-infected children diagnosed with KS, although data are sparse and not adequately adjusted for staging of disease and comorbidities. Additionally, though data are sparse, the use of ART together with a chemotherapeutic regimen versus chemotherapy alone in some analyses appears to increase the likelihood of KS remission and reduce the risk of death in HIV-infected children diagnosed with KS. In this analysis, we found that the quality of evidence was very low due to small sample sizes and a paucity of paediatric literature. Authors' conclusions Data describing the efficacy of different treatment options for pediatric KS, to include chemotherapy and ART, are sparse. However, the use of ART together with a chemotherapy regimen may be superior to the use of ART alone or of chemotherapy alone.
Ebstein’s Anomaly

Ebstein’s anomaly is a rare congenital heart disorder occurring in 1 per 200 000 live births and accounting for 1% of all cases of congenital heart disease.2–6 This anomaly was described by Wilhelm Ebstein in 1866 in a report titled, “Concerning a very rare case of insufficiency of the tricuspid valve caused by a congenital malformation.” 7,8 The patient was a 19-year-old cyanotic man with dyspnea, palpitations, jugular venous distension, and cardiomegaly. 7,8 At autopsy, Ebstein described an enlarged and fenestrated anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve. The posterior and septal leaflets were hypoplastic, thickened, and adherent to the right ventricle. There was also a thinned and dilated atrialized portion of the right ventricle, an enlarged right atrium, and a patent foramen
Intraoperative Fluorescence-Guided Resection of High-Grade Gliomas: A Comparison of the Present Techniques and Evolution of Future Strategies

Objective Fluorescence guidance has a demonstrated potential in maximizing the extent of high-grade glioma resection. Different fluorophores (fluorescent biomarkers), including 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) and fluorescein, have been examined with the use of several imaging techniques. Our goal was to review the state of this technology and discuss strategies for more widespread adoption. Methods We performed a Medline search using the key words "fluorescence," "intraoperative fluorescence-guided resection," "intraoperative image-guided resection," and "brain glioma" for articles from 1960 until the present. This initial search revealed 267 articles. Each abstract and article was reviewed and the reference lists from select articles were further evaluated for relevance. A total of 64 articles included information about the role of fluorescence in resection of high-grade gliomas and therefore were selectively included for our analysis. Results 5-ALA and fluorescein sodium have shown promise as fluorescent markers in detecting residual tumor intraoperatively. These techniques have demonstrated a significant increase in the extent of tumor resection. Regulatory barriers have limited the use of 5-ALA and technological challenges have restricted the use of fluorescein and its derivatives in the United States. Limitations to this technology currently exist, such as the fact that fluorescence at tumor margins is not always reliable for identification of tumor-brain interface. Conclusions These techniques are safe and effective for increasing gross total resection. The development of more tumor-specific fluorophores is needed to resolve problems with subjective interpretation of fluorescent signal at tumor margins. Techniques such as quantum dots and polymer or iron oxide-based nanoparticles have shown promise as potential future tools.
Truncated Poisson Distribution with Optimization Techniques in the Epidemiology of Caries

A truncated Poisson distribution provides a closer fit to observed caries in a sample of 10-to 11-year-old children than a previously reported chain binomial distribution. Operations research techniques are used in estimating a parameter.
The many moods of inter‐organizational imitation: A critical review

The management literature is paying increasing attention to the phenomenon of imitation. However, there are several gaps in understanding what drives firms’ imitative behaviors. Furthermore, a fragmented array of disciplinary perspectives has investigated imitation phenomena in the past. This paper reviews the literature on imitation and offers a unifying framework to understand what theory has said about the predictors of imitative behaviors, in terms of purposes, driving forces and target. At the end of the review, two over-arching rationales for imitation seem to emerge: risk reduction and search for effectiveness. Next, the review distinguishes between what drives the general propensity for imitation of a firm and what makes a specific decision more likely to be imitated by the same firm. Implications and indications for future research are offered in the final section.
Fractionalization noise in edge channels of integer quantum Hall states.

A theoretical calculation is presented of current noise which is due charge fractionalization, in two interacting edge channels in the integer quantum Hall state at filling factor $\ensuremath{\nu}=2$. Because of the capacitive coupling between the channels, a tunneling event, in which an electron is transferred from a biased source lead to one of the two channels, generates propagating plasma mode excitations which carry fractional charges on the other edge channel. When these excitations impinge on a quantum point contact, they induce low-frequency current fluctuations with no net average current. A perturbative treatment in the weak tunneling regime yields analytical integral expressions for the noise as a function of the bias on the source. Asymptotic expressions of the noise in the limits of high and low bias are found.
ENDOSONOGRAPHY IN COLUMNAR-LINED ESOPHAGUS

Barrett's esophagus is presently the most important risk factor for adenocarcinoma of the esophagus and gastric cardia. 7 The incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus has risen significantly to the point that today it accounts for up to 50% of all esophageal cancers in white American men. 17 Unsuspected carcinoma is found in approximately one third of resected specimens when esophagectomy is performed for high-grade dysplasia (HGD). 2,12 Endoscopic surveillance for cancer in Barrett's esophagus is primarily performed to seek HGD. One published study has shown that patients in a surveillance group had earlier-stage tumors and a significantly better survival rate when compared with patients who had no surveillance. 14 The timely identification and surgical resection of intramucosal adenocarcinoma or an early submucosal cancer within Barrett's esophagus offers an 80% to 100% chance of cure. 2,13,16,19 Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) provides high-resolution imaging of the layered structure of the esophageal wall and surrounding structures. 21 For patients with cancer of the esophagus, EUS has been shown to be far superior to computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging for preoperative locoregional staging. 3,4,20 In one review, studies from 21 centers showed an average accuracy in assessing the depth of invasion in esophageal cancer of 84% (1154 patients) and an average accuracy for nodal staging of 77% (1035 patients). 15 For patients with cancer arising in Barrett's esophagus, EUS appears to have a role in tumor staging, and some authors have suggested that the technique may be useful in determining when to operate on patients with HGD who have no endoscopic evidence of carcinoma. 8 To date, there are two published prospective clinical trials and various studies in abstract form dealing with the clinical role of EUS in the management of patients with Barrett's esophagus. Overall, its utility remains largely unproved. 4,22
PATTERNS OF HOUSES AND HABITAT LOSS FROM 1937 TO 1999 IN NORTHERN WISCONSIN, USA

Rural America is witnessing widespread housing development, which is to the detriment of the environment. It has been suggested to cluster houses so that their disturbance zones overlap and thus cause less habitat loss than is the case for dispersed development. Clustering houses makes intuitive sense, but few empirical studies have quantified the spatial pattern of houses in real landscapes, assessed changes in their patterns over time, and quantified the resulting habitat loss. We addressed three basic questions: (1) What are the spatial patterns of houses and how do they change over time; (2) How much habitat is lost due to houses, and how is this affected by spatial pattern of houses; and (3) What type of habitat is most affected by housing development. We mapped 27 419 houses from aerial photos for five time periods in 17 townships in northern Wisconsin and calculated the terrestrial land area remaining after buffering each house using 100- and 500-m disturbance zones. The number of houses increased by 353% between 1937 and 1999. Ripley's K test showed that houses were significantly clustered at all time periods and at all scales. Due to the clustering, the rate at which habitat was lost (176% and 55% for 100- and 500-m buffers, respectively) was substantially lower than housing growth rates, and most land area was undisturbed (95% and 61% for 100-m and 500-m buffers, respectively). Houses were strongly clustered within 100 m of lakes. Habitat loss was lowest in wetlands but reached up to 60% in deciduous forests. Our results are encouraging in that clustered development is common in northern Wisconsin, and habitat loss is thus limited. However, the concentration of development along lakeshores causes concern, because these may be critical habitats for many species. Conservation goals can only be met if policies promote clustered development and simultaneously steer development away from sensitive ecosystems.
LVRT performance limit of DFIG with traditional AC crowbar and DC-link brake approach

Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) system is subject to high transient voltage at rotor side when there is voltage sag at stator/grid side, which is beyond the capability of rotor side converter to handle. Traditional approach is to apply crowbar circuit to shunt the transient rotor current from the rotor side converter. DC-link brake is also typically applied to suppress the rise in DC bus voltage. This paper discusses the transient process and pointes out the performance limit for low voltage ride through (LVRT) with the traditional AC crowbar + DC-link brake approach. Both balanced and unbalanced grid faults will be addressed.
“Islands of Decency”: Building Capacity in a Sea of Despair

This response focuses attention on three key issues raised by Brayboy's talk: training our analyses on the impact of neoliberal policies reshaping schools and societies, developing an engaged anthropology of education to build local capacity, and remembering the centrality of our relationships in the midst of this work.
Adopting helical CT screening for lung cancer: potential health consequences during a 15-year period.

BACKGROUND. Simulation modeling can synthesize data from single-arm studies of lung cancer screening and tumor registries to investigate computed tomography (CT) screening. This study estimated changes in lung cancer outcomes through 2005, had chest CT screening been introduced in 1990. METHODS. Hypothetical individuals with smoking histories representative of 6 US cohorts (white males and females aged 50, 60, and 70 years in 1990) were simulated in the Lung Cancer Policy Model, a comprehensive patient-level simulation model of lung cancer development, screening, and treatment. A no screening scenario corresponded to observed outcomes. We simulated 3 screening scenarios in current or former smokers with ≥20 pack-years as follows: 1-time screen in 1990; and annual, and twice-annually screenings beginning in 1990 and ending in 2005. Main outcomes were days of life between 1990 and 2005 and life expectancy in 1990 (estimated by simulating life histories past 2005). RESULTS. All screening scenarios yielded reductions (compared with no screening) in lung cancer-specific mortality by 2005, with larger reductions predicted for more frequent screening. Compared with no screening, annual screening of ever-smokers with at least 20 pack-years of cigarette exposure provided ever-smokers with an additional 11 to 33 days of life by 2005, or an additional 3-10 weeks of (undiscounted) life expectancy. In sensitivity analyses, the largest effects on gains from annual screening were due to reductions in screening adherence and increased smoking cessation. CONCLUSIONS. The adoption of CT screening, had it been available in 1990, might have resulted in a modest gain in life expectancy. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
The incidence of plantar fasciitis in the United States military.

Background Although plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, little has been reported on the incidence rates of this disorder. We sought to determine the incidence rate and demographic risk factors of plantar fasciitis in an ethnically diverse and physically active population of United States military service members. Methods A query was performed with use of the Defense Medical Epidemiology Database for the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification, code for plantar fasciitis (728.71). Multivariate Poisson regression analysis was used to estimate the rate of plantar fasciitis per 1000 person-years, while controlling for sex, race, rank, service, and age. Results The overall unadjusted incidence rate of plantar fasciitis was 10.5 per 1000 person-years. Compared with men, women had a significantly increased adjusted incidence rate ratio for plantar fasciitis of 1.96 (95% confidence interval, 1.94 to 1.99). The adjusted incidence rate ratio for black service members compared with white service members was 1.12 (95% confidence interval, 1.09 to 1.12). With junior officers as the referent category, junior enlisted, senior enlisted, and senior officer rank groups had a significantly increased adjusted incidence rate ratio for plantar fasciitis: 1.20 (95% confidence interval, 1.18 to 1.23), 1.19 (95% confidence interval, 1.17 to 1.22), and 1.56 (95% confidence interval, 1.52 to 1.61), respectively. Compared with service members in the Air Force, those in the Army and Marines had a significantly increased adjusted incidence rate ratio for plantar fasciitis of 1.85 (95% confidence interval, 1.82 to 1.87) and 1.28 (95% confidence interval, 1.25 to 1.30), respectively. The adjusted incidence rate ratio for the age group of forty years old or more compared with the twenty to twenty-four-year-old group was 3.42 (95% confidence interval, 3.34 to 3.51). Conclusions Female sex; black race; junior enlisted, senior enlisted, and senior officer rank groups; service in the Army or Marines; and increasing age are all risk factors for plantar fasciitis.