cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cultural Contingency and Economic Function: Bridge‐Building from the Law & Economics Side

Lauren Edelman's presidential address is artfully provocative. Given my membership in both the Law & Society Association and the American Law & Economics Association, I endorse her twin suggestions that law and society (LS Fehr & Fischbacher 2002; Korobkin & Ulen 2000). Another trend-weaker than I would like-is a move toward the study of inequality. Perhaps the first to recognize the potential for using game theory to explore issues of inequality was the philosopher Ullmann-Margalit (1977:134-97). But there is increasing interest in using games to model social inequalities, especially those related to sex. See Rose (1992), Hadfield (1999), and Wax (2000). My primary focus, however, is on the contrast Edelman draws between L&E and L&S on the grounds of what I will term contingency. Edelman says that L&S uniquely emphasizes "the social embeddedness and politics of markets" (Edelman 2004:183), "the social, political, and legal construction of rational economic behavior" (2004:184, emphasis in original), and "social action as responsive to institutions, norms, and historical context" (2004:187). Addressing one aspect of the market, for example, Edelman asks "why we bargain at the car dealership or the flea market but not at the pharmacy or the grocery store" (2004:192). She answers that pricing practices "are governed by culturally ingrained practices as well as, and sometimes instead of, preference maximization" (2004:192). Although Edelman may mean other things by this contrast I believe she means also to emphasize contingency: that there was no necessity to arriving at the existing pricing practices, but that arbitrarily small changes in history and culture could produce very different patterns of contemporary behavior. We can understand pricing practices and other economic behavior only by understanding the history that has led us to them. Here is where I wish to sketch out a possible ground of unexpected convergence. To a degree not fully appreciated, economic theory embraces the idea of contingency, and with it, the importance of history and culture. After describing how contingency arises in game theory, I return to a source of divergence: whether L&S can embrace the converse-that the noncontingent practicality or "function" of market practices sometimes explains their persistence better than contingency. …
Transplant rejection and paradigms lost

During transplant rejection, migrating T cells infiltrate the grafted organ, but the signals that direct this migration are incompletely understood. In this issue of the JCI, Walch et al. debunk two classical paradigms concerning transplant rejection, with important consequences for the design of antirejection therapeutics.
Phase transitions with O(n) symmetry broken down to O(n − p)

Abstract We define the Stiefel models (a generalization of the Heisenberg model), and investigate their phase transitions. These models are built so as to have a phase transition with an O( n ) symmetry broken down to O( n − p ). The group-theoretical properties of the models are reviewed. The mean field equation is solved. As the usual perturbative renormalization group fails, we use the local potential approximation of the renormalization group in order to obtain the critical exponents in three dimensions. The most interesting model physically possesses an almost second-order phase transition, with the exponent v = 0.63.
Microbial nitrogen transformations in earthworm burrows

Abstract Earthworms play an active role in soil nitrogen cycling. Past research has shown that earthworm castings are enriched in NO3− and NH4+ and show a high potential for microbial nitrification and denitrification. Little information is available on microbial populations and N transformations in the 1–2 mm thick soil lining of earthworm burrows (the drilosphere). We measured nitrifying bacterial populations, denitrifying bacterial populations, nitrification rates and denitrification rates of drilosphere and nondrilosphere soils. These measurements, in addition to measurements of NO3− concentration, NH4+ concentration, soluble organic-C, pH and water content, were performed on drilosphere material from laboratory microcosms inoculated with Lumbricus terrestris L. and on drilosphere material collected from earthworm burrows in long term no-till plots. The drilosphere soil was enriched in NO3−, NH4+ and soluble organic C and these soils had elevated populations of nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria relative to nondrilosphere soil. Drilosphere soil also had higher nitrification and denitrification rates. We postulate that earthworm-derived C and N deposited in the drilosphere facilitates the enrichment of N-transforming bacterial populations and that the elevated N-transformation rates results in an enrichment of NO3− in the earthworm burrow. This phenomenon has the potential for increased downward NO3− transport; however, the extent to which this potential is realized is not known.
Study of the 17O(α, d)19F reaction

Abstract At a bombarding energy of 47.5 MeV, the 17O(α, d)19F reaction is found to populate strongly only those positive-parity states that are known to consist predominantly of (sd)3 configurations. Distorted-wave calculations based on transfer amplitudes computed from shell-model wave functions provide good agreement to the measured angular distributions — in both shape and magnitude.
Semi-active particle-based damping systems controlled by magnetic fields

This paper reports the design of a semi-active particle-based damping system in which a dry magnetic particle bed is used to dissipate the energy of a vibrating piston. The system is magnetized by a magnetic field generated by an electromagnetic coil. Hysteresis-free, ferromagnetic materials are selected for both the piston and particles. The damping efficiency increases as the magnetization of the piston and particles increases up to saturation. Semi-active control is achieved by varying the electric current supplied to the coil, which changes the magnetization and allows for real-time tunability of the damping rate. During the process of magnetization and demagnetization, the damping is reversible and temperature-independent over a wide temperature range. This system can be useful in aerospace, automobile and structural engineering applications, particularly in harsh environments.
Knoop Microhardness Anisotropy of Single-Crystal Cassiterite (SnO2)

The Knoop microhardness anisotropy of single-crystal cassiterite (SnO2) was measured on the (100), (110), (001), and (111). That anisotropy is depicted as the microhardness profiles for those planes. The results are addressed first in terms of the elastic anisotropy of SnO2 and then on the basis of the effective resolved shear stress (ERSS), the latter an approach initially advanced by Brookes and co-workers. The load dependence of the Knoop microhardness is also evaluated in terms of the classical Meyer's law for which it is demonstrated that the Meyer's law coefficient and Meyer's law exponent are related.
Atmospheric circulation patterns during glacial inception: A possible candidate

Models of atmospheric circulation in the North Atlantic sector during glacial inception can be expanded to a hemispheric scale with the aid of diagnostic studies of the present climate. The present “Greenland Above” (GA) atmospheric circulation type may be a candidate for the atmospheric circulation type required during glacial inception. The pattern is an amplification, with only minor phase shifts, of the present average winter circulation pattern in the extratropical Northern Hemisphere. Southerly flow in the northwest Atlantic is associated with warm ocean temperatures, low sea ice in the Davis Strait, and increased precipitation over northeast Canada. Evidence from modeling of the present climate indicates that the GA pattern could be maintained by increased snow cover over eastern North America. Enhanced snow cover, due to decreased Northern Hemisphere summer insolation, could cause a similar response on an ice-age time scale.
Prognostic assessment of tumor regression after external irradiation for cervical cancer

From February 1980 to December 1986, 428 cases of cervical cancer in Stage I through IVA were given curative radiation therapy at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei. All of them received external irradiation and intracavitary brachytherapy. The degree of tumor regression was assessed immediately before the first intracavitary brachytherapy treatment. Patients were classified at this time as having (a) no gross residual tumor, or (b) gross residual tumor. Factors found to be associated with tumor regression by logistic regression analysis were stage, age and hemoglobin level. Patients with advanced cancer (Stage III, IVA), young age (less than 40 years), and low hemoglobin level (less than 10 g/dl) had a low incidence of no gross residual tumor. Five-year survival rate was 77% in patients with no gross residual tumor and 31% in patients with gross residual tumor (p less than 0.001). This significant difference held true even when one compared these two groups stage for stage; the difference was 77% versus 41% (p less than 0.001) in Stage II and 72% versus 28% (p less than 0.001) in Stage III. The local relapse rate was 59% in the gross residual tumor groups, significantly greater (p less than 0.001) than the 12% found in the no gross residual tumor group. It was concluded that patients whose tumors did not regress after external pelvic irradiation tended to recur after intracavitary brachytherapy, most often locally. This would justify a more aggressive treatment to improve local tumor control in this subset of high risk patients.
Multicellular recordings of cultured brainstem neurons in microelectrode arrays

Several vital systemic functions are controlled by the brainstem, which has been studied in a variety of experimental preparations and by various techniques, including in-vitro electrophysiological preparations. Although these in-vitro approaches have greatly advanced the understanding of brainstem neurons, most recording methods with microelectrodes and patch pipettes are invasive. To take advantage of in-vitro approaches but avoid their potential problems, we have studied brainstem neurons in microelectrode arrays (MEA). Neurons were isolated from the medulla oblongata and cultured in DMEM. Extracellular recordings were performed with no evident perturbations to the cellular environment. Neurons started firing after 24-48 h in culture, reached stable activity in 3-4 weeks, and retained this activity for at least 3 months. From their firing patterns, these neurons could be divided into tonic and bursting units. The latter could be further divided into regular and irregular bursters based on their burst intervals. Cells were stimulated or inhibited by exposure to 10% CO2. The stimulatory effect of CO2, though smaller, was still seen after selective ablation of serotonergic neurons or with low Ca++ and high Mg++ in the extracellular medium. Similar treatments had no significant effect on CO2-inhibited units. The abundance of units with respect to their firing patterns and CO2 responses, together with the long-term stable non-invasive recordings with no evident perturbation to cellular environments, suggests that MEA represent another promising in-vitro approach for studying brainstem neurons.
Physical activity in men and women with arthritis National Health Interview Survey, 2002.

Background Regular physical activity in persons with arthritis has been shown to decrease pain, improve function, and delay disability. This study estimates the national prevalence of leisure-time physical activity and identifies factors associated with physical inactivity in adults with arthritis. Methods Data from the 2002 National Health Interview Survey were analyzed in 2004–2005 to estimate the proportion of adults with arthritis meeting four physical activity recommendations put forward in Healthy People 2010 and one arthritis-specific recommendation established by a national expert panel in arthritis and physical activity. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between inactivity and sociodemographic factors, body mass index, functional limitations, social limitations, need for special equipment, frequent anxiety/depression, affected joint location, joint pain, physical activity counseling, and access to a fitness facility. Results Adults with arthritis were significantly less likely than adults without arthritis to engage in recommended levels of moderate or vigorous physical activity, and 37% of adults with arthritis were inactive. In both men and women with arthritis, inactivity was associated with older age, lower education, and having functional limitations; having access to a fitness facility was inversely associated with inactivity. Among women, inactivity was also associated with being Hispanic, non-Hispanic black, having frequent anxiety/depression or social limitations, needing special equipment, and not receiving physical activity counseling. Among men, inactivity was also associated with severe joint pain. Conclusions Although physical activity is a recommended therapy for people with arthritis, levels among adults with arthritis are insufficient, and those with arthritis have worse activity profiles than their peers without arthritis. Efforts to promote physical activity should include expanding access to evidence-based interventions and recreational facilities/programs. The importance of physical activity counseling and associated pain management measures by healthcare providers should be emphasized.
On Hot Metal Gas Forming Process

Hot Metal Gas Forming (HMGF) is a new metal forming process jointly developed by 15 automotive/aerospace companies/suppliers and one university under NIST-Advanced Technology Program [1, 2]. The primary goals of this program are (1) to achieve enhanced formability for automotive steels and aluminum alloys at high speeds, and (2) to reduce manufacturing cost. The technical approach is to develop a gas forming process that forms tubular components at elevated temperatures inside ceramic dies. During the forming, 1) a tubular workpiece is placed into the ceramic die cavity, then is rapidly heated to above 0.6Tm (melting temperature in K) by a set of induction coils that are embedded behind the ceramic die outer surfaces; 2) The two tube ends are sealed and a gas pressure is applied inside the bube; and 3) The metal fill the die cavity under combined internal gas pressure and optional axial feeding. After forming the workpiece is transferred to a cooling station for possible on-line heat treatment. For many steels and heat-treatable aluminum alloys the mechanical properties can be improved through controlled cooling rate after forming. In this presentation, the results on the elevated-temperature tensile behaviors and formability of several commonly used automotive aluminum alloys and steels will be presented. The microstructural evolution and its effect on the formability and post-forming properties will also be discussed. Two types of tube in-die forming 0processes have been studied: (1)tube expansion from 2 inche to 3 inch in diameter; (2) tube forming from round to squared sections. Based on laboratory that can perform continuous operation at a cycle time less than 30 seconds. Current activities in implementation of this new metal forming method for manufacturing vehicle chassis components will be described.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
A generic model of transcriptional regulatory networks: Application to plants under abiotic stress

Understanding the relationships between transcription factors (TFs) and genes in plants under abiotic stress responses, tolerance and adaptation to adverse environments is very important in developing resilient crop varieties. While experimental methods to characterize stress responsive TFs and their targets are highly accurate, identification and characterization of the role of a given gene in a given stress response event are often laborious and time consuming. Computational approaches, on the other hand, offer a platform to identify new knowledge by integrating high throughput omics data and mathematical methods/models. In this research, we have developed a generic linear model of transcriptional regulatory networks (TRNs) and a companion algorithm to identify and to characterize stress responsive genes and their roles in a given stress response event. The proposed methodology was applied to plants, by using Arabidopsis thaliana as an example, under abiotic stress. Well known interactions were inferred as well as putative novel ones that may play important roles in plants under abiotic stress conditions as confirmed by statistical and literature evidences.
Monopod, bipod, tripod, and tetrapod gold nanocrystals

Multipod gold nanocrystals have been synthesized via a simple solution-phase chemical reduction method at room temperature. Two types of structurally different particles are observed, including the regular tripod, which lies on the substrate with its {111} plane, and the cross-like tetrapod that sits on its {100} plane. Both structures have pods of 10 nm sizes and grow along 〈110〉 directions. Variously shaped particles, including tadpole-like or teardrop-like monopods, 90° L-shaped, 180° I-shaped, and 120° V-shaped bipods, T-shaped, Y-shaped, and regular triangular tripods, and cross-like tetrapods, have been produced. Due to the high conductivity of metal, these branched structures are quite promising considering their applications as interconnections in the “bottom-up” self-assembly approach toward future nanocircuits and nanodevices, as well as in other related fields.
Assessment and management of cardiogenic shock in the emergency department.

Abstract Cardiogenic shock remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients hospitalized with myocardial infarction, severe valvular disease, and other causes of cardiomyopathy. Emergency physicians play a pivotal role in the initial management of these patients, as they are most often the point of first contact with the medical system. This review discusses the initial assessment and management of cardiogenic shock, emphasizing the importance and role of the emergency physician.
LC-MS/MS Peptide Mapping with Automated Data Processing for Routine Profiling of N-Glycans in Immunoglobulins

Protein N-Glycan analysis is traditionally performed by high pH anion exchange chromatography (HPAEC), reversed phase liquid chromatography (RPLC), or hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) on fluorescence-labeled glycans enzymatically released from the glycoprotein. These methods require time-consuming sample preparations and do not provide site-specific glycosylation information. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) peptide mapping is frequently used for protein structural characterization and, as a bonus, can potentially provide glycan profile on each individual glycosylation site. In this work, a recently developed glycopeptide fragmentation model was used for automated identification, based on their MS/MS, of N-glycopeptides from proteolytic digestion of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Experimental conditions were optimized to achieve accurate profiling of glycoforms. Glycan profiles obtained from LC-MS/MS peptide mapping were compared with those obtained from HPAEC, RPLC, and HILIC analyses of released glycans for several mAb molecules. Accuracy, reproducibility, and linearity of the LC-MS/MS peptide mapping method for glycan profiling were evaluated. The LC-MS/MS peptide mapping method with fully automated data analysis requires less sample preparation, provides site-specific information, and may serve as an alternative method for routine profiling of N-glycans on immunoglobulins as well as other glycoproteins with simple N-glycans.
Behavioral Character Displacement: Evidence of Food Partitioning in Insectivorous Bats

Two extremely similar insectivorous bats, Myotis evotis and M. auriculas , differ in food preferences when sympatric (Black, 1974). Myotis auriculus preys generally upon moths and some beetles, whereas M. evotis specializes on beetles. Does this specialization of M. evotis persist in allopatry, indicating that it has evolved as a food specialist, or in the absence of its close competitor, does it eat both moths and beetles without a strong preference? What sort of effect, if any, does M. evotis exert on the diet of M. auriculus in areas of sympatry? Both species were captured in areas of allopatry during the summer of 1972. Fecal samples were collected and analyzed using Black's (1974) technique. My results indicate that when in allopatry, M. evotis and M. auriculus have similar food habits. Thus, in sympatry, competition for food is avoided by changes in food preferences of M. evotis . Furthermore, each species exhibits sexual differences in foods taken in areas of allopatry, indicating that intraspecific niche subdivision occurs in each of these bats only in the absence of the potential competitor.
The effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on seabed polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon dynamics in the Gulf of Mexico.

Abstract To assess the extent to which Hurricanes Katrina and Rita affected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM), sediment cores were analyzed in late 2005 from: a shallow shelf, a deeper shelf, and a marsh station. Sediment geochronology, fabric, and geochemistry show that the 2005 storms deposited ∼10 cm of sediment to the surface of a core at 5-12A. Bulk carbon geochemistry and PAH isomers in this top layer suggest that the source of sediment to the top portion of core 5-12A was from a relatively more marine area. Particulate PAHs in the marsh core (04 M) appeared unaffected by the storms while sediments in the core from Station 5-1B (deeper shelf) were affected minimally (some possible storm-derived deposition). Substantial amounts of PAH-laden particles may have been displaced from the seabed in shallow areas of the water column in the GOM by these 2005 storms.
System for robot-assisted real-time laparoscopic ultrasound elastography

Surgical robots provide many advantages for surgery, including minimal invasiveness, precise motion, high dexterity, and crisp stereovision. One limitation of current robotic procedures, compared to open surgery, is the loss of haptic information for such purposes as palpation, which can be very important in minimally invasive tumor resection. Numerous studies have reported the use of real-time ultrasound elastography, in conjunction with conventional B-mode ultrasound, to differentiate malignant from benign lesions. Several groups (including our own) have reported integration of ultrasound with the da Vinci robot, and ultrasound elastography is a very promising image guidance method for robotassisted procedures that will further enable the role of robots in interventions where precise knowledge of sub-surface anatomical features is crucial. We present a novel robot-assisted real-time ultrasound elastography system for minimally invasive robot-assisted interventions. Our system combines a da Vinci surgical robot with a non-clinical experimental software interface, a robotically articulated laparoscopic ultrasound probe, and our GPU-based elastography system. Elasticity and B-mode ultrasound images are displayed as picture-in-picture overlays in the da Vinci console. Our system minimizes dependence on human performance factors by incorporating computer-assisted motion control that automatically generates the tissue palpation required for elastography imaging, while leaving high-level control in the hands of the user. In addition to ensuring consistent strain imaging, the elastography assistance mode avoids the cognitive burden of tedious manual palpation. Preliminary tests of the system with an elasticity phantom demonstrate the ability to differentiate simulated lesions of varied stiffness and to clearly delineate lesion boundaries.
The First Half-Century of the International Association of Sedimentologists (IAS) 1952-2002

"On 1 September 1948, directly after the closing of the 18th International Geological Congress in London, UK, the British sedimentary petrologists, headed by P. Allen, arranged a meeting for the sedimentary petrologists who had participated in the Congress. P. Allen raised the following points for discussion: (a) is some sort of a international union in sedimentary petrology desirable? (b) Should some kind of international meeting of sedimentary petrologists be held regularly in the future?"
Electromigration induced strain field simulations for nanoelectronics lead-free solder joints

Abstract Electromigration is a major road block on the way to realization of nanoelectronics. Determination of plastic deformation under high current density is critical for prediction of electromigration failure. A new displacement–diffusion coupled model is proposed and implemented using finite element method. The model takes into account viscoplastic behavior of solder alloys, as a result, vacancy concentration evolution and electromigration process are accurately simulated. Finite element simulations were performed for lead-free solder joints under high current density and compared with experimental moire interferometry measurements. The comparison validates the model.
Instabilities and the null energy condition

Abstract We show that violation of the null energy condition implies instability in a broad class of models, including gauge theories with scalar and fermionic matter as well as any perfect fluid. When applied to the dark energy, our results imply that w = p / ρ is unlikely to be less than −1.
Drinking water treatment is not associated with an observed increase in neural tube defects in mice

Disinfection by-products (DBPs) arise when natural organic matter in source water reacts with disinfectants used in the water treatment process. Studies have suggested an association between DBPs and birth defects. Neural tube defects (NTDs) in embryos of untreated control mice were first observed in-house in May 2006 and have continued to date. The source of the NTD-inducing agent was previously determined to be a component of drinking water. Tap water samples from a variety of sources were analyzed for trihalomethanes (THMs) to determine if they were causing the malformations. NTDs were observed in CD-1 mice provided with treated and untreated surface water. Occurrence of NTDs varied by water source and treatment regimens. THMs were detected in tap water derived from surface water but not detected in tap water derived from a groundwater source. THMs were absent in untreated river water and laboratory purified waters, yet the percentage of NTDs in untreated river water were similar to the treated water counterpart. These findings indicate that THMs were not the primary cause of NTDs in the mice since the occurrence of NTDs was unrelated to drinking water disinfection.
Cell interaction in the secondary immune response.

Abstract This paper investigates the necessity for cell interaction in the in vitro secondary immune response of rabbits to sheep red cells, and attempts to identify and quantify the cells involved. The observed relation between cell dose and response is in good agreement with theoretical predictions from hit theory, and indicates that at least three cell types, an antibody precursor cell and two cooperating cells, are required to initiate both IgM and IgG memory responses. The antibody precursor cells appear restricted to one immunoglobulin class. The addition of thymus cells to cultures where the cooperating cells are in short supply compensates for the shortage. Immunological memory is attributable to a significant increase in the number of both the antibody precursor cell and a cooperating cell. Both cells migrate from the spleen to other peripheral lymphoid tissues. IgM precursor cells persist for some month but are inhibited from responding to new antigen by small amounts of specific IgG.
An evidence of frame building: Analyzing the correlations among the frames in Sierra Club newsletters, national newspapers, and regional newspapers

Abstract Based on the data reported in a published article, this study finds that the percentages of articles that have particular frames in Sierra Club newsletters correlate with those in national and regional newspapers. Partial correlation analysis also reports such a correlation between the national newspapers and the regional newspapers, which disappears when the Sierra Club newsletters are controlled. Moreover, the correlation between the newsletters and the newspapers exists when the pro-environment master frames are analyzed, but not when the pro-development competing frames are analyzed.
Radiologic evaluation and management of postoperative spine paraspinal fluid collections

Postoperative paraspinal fluid collections can present a management dilemma to both radiologists and surgeons. Although many of these collections present as incidental findings and are unrelated to the presenting signs and symptoms that led to the imaging study, certain collections in the context of the appropriate clinical scenario may require additional evaluation and even emergent intervention. This article reviews those collections that are most frequently encountered and suggests management strategies that may assist in the evaluation and management of the patient.
Connecting the dots: assessing the accuracy of geographic profiling software

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to conduct an independent analysis of all existing geographic profiling software packages to determine if any one is more accurate than the others or if any of the software systems are any more accurate than simple spatial distribution strategies at locating the home base of serial offenders.Design/methodology/approach – An analysis was conducted of all existing geographic profiling software as well as three spatial distribution methods of profiling. Differences in accuracy were assessed using four different methods; dichotomous profile accuracy, simple error measurement, profile error distance, and average top profile area.Findings – Results indicate that not only are the different profiling software systems no more accurate than the spatial distribution control methods, but that accuracy in general was marginal at best. In addition results indicated that certain crimes, such as commercial robbery, were particularly difficult to profile and that the number of crimes...
Complexities on the acapulcoite-lodranite parent body: Evidence from trace element distributions in silicate minerals

— The trace element distributions of individual minerals from seven acapulcoites and lodranites have been studied. Systematic differences are evident between some members of the two groups. Specifically, pyroxenes from the lodranites MacAlpine Hills (MAC) 88177 and Lewis Cliff (LEW) 88280 exhibit depletions of the rare earth elements (REE) and other incompatible trace elements (Ti, Zr, Y), relative to acapulcoite (Acapulco, Allan Hills (ALH) A81261) pyroxenes, that are consistent with the formation and removal of 15% or more silicate partial melts from these meteorites. Phosphate REE patterns in these lodranites also support this scenario. However, other members of the acapulcoite-lodranite clan exhibit more complex trace element variations. Elephant Moraine (EET) 84302, which has been classified as transitional between the acapulcoites and lodranites, generally has trace element characteristics similar to the acapulcoites. However, its plagioclase REE compositions suggest a somewhat greater degree of metamorphism than that experienced by acapulcoites such as Acapulco and ALHA81261. Similar and elevated REE abundances in the silicate phases from acapulcoite ALHA81187 and lodranite Graves Nunataks (GRA) 95209 suggest that these two meteorites, in fact, experienced similar thermal histories. This probably included some silicate partial melting, although little melt appears to have been lost from the samples. The observed variations in the trace element abundances of these samples from the acapulcoite-lodranite clan emphasize the complex and varied processes that have acted on their parent body. The simple bimodal classification of these meteorites based primarily on petrographic criteria, which has been used to date, appears to be inadequate to describe this diverse group of samples, as they represent a range of degrees of partial melting, both with and without accompanying melt migration. In some instances, secondary processes on the parent body, such as cryptic metasomatism, have further modified sample compositions.
Professional Teams as Leverageable Assets: Strategic Creation of Community Value

Professional sport teams receive support from their host cities in the form of public subsidies, financial incentives, and public services. Public support derives from the expectation that a team will render economic and social benefits to the community. Claims of economic benefits associated with a team have been widely discredited, and claims about non-economic benefits are merely anecdotal. In order for cities to reap benefits from hosting a team, team and public administrators must shift their focus from impact to leverage. Three interrelated realms of leveraging opportunity can be identified: economic development, place marketing, and social welfare. Strategic action formulated and implemented pursuant to desired benefits can render gains that would otherwise not be obtained. Leveraging can serve economic development by stabilising the workforce, enhancing the tax base, and fostering area redevelopment. Leveraging enables the team to be built into city branding, which can be complemented by specific tactics designed to attract business and tourists, and to boost community self-esteem. Leveraging can also enable the team to support community-building efforts, and to ameliorate social issues. Further work is needed to explore factors that facilitate and that inhibit leverage of sport teams, and to evaluate leveraging strategies.
Do you feel lucky?: a large-scale analysis of risk-rewards trade-offs in cyber security

A crucial part of a cyber-criminal's job is to balance the risks and rewards of his every action. For example, an expert spammer will tune a bot's email-sending rate to achieve a good throughput with an acceptable risk of being detected. Then, such a cyber-criminal has to choose how to launder the money he made with spamming, and he will have to consider many options (money mules, Bitcoin, etc.) that will offer different returns and risks. Although understanding these trade-offs and coming as close as possible to their optimum is what discriminates winners and losers in the cyber-crime world, there has been little study on this matter, as setting up a large-scale study to study how cyber-criminals deal with these risk-reward trade-offs is challenging. Computer security competitions provide a great opportunity both to educate students and to study realistic cyber-security scenarios in a controlled environment. Looking to study the risk-reward trade-offs seen in real cyber-security incidents, we designed and hosted a novel format for a Capture the Flag cyber-security contest, involving 89 teams comprising over 1,000 students across the globe. In this paper, we describe the intuition, intent, and design of the contest. Additionally, we present an analysis of the data set collected, evaluate its effectiveness in modeling risk-reward behavior, examine the strategies of the competing teams, and estimate the effectiveness of such strategies.
The anticancer plant triterpenoid, avicin d, regulates glucocorticoid receptor signaling: Implications for cellular metabolism

Avicins, a family of apoptotic triterpene electrophiles, are known to regulate cellular metabolism and energy homeostasis, by targeting the mitochondria. Having evolved from “ancient hopanoids,” avicins bear a structural resemblance with glucocorticoids (GCs), which are the endogenous regulators of metabolism and energy balance. These structural and functional similarities prompted us to compare the mode of action of avicin D with dexamethasone (Dex), a prototypical GC. Using cold competition assay, we show that Avicin D competes with Dex for binding to the GC receptor (GR), leading to its nuclear translocation. In contrast to Dex, avicin-induced nuclear translocation of GR does not result in transcriptional activation of GC-dependent genes. Instead we observe a decrease in the expression of GC-dependent metabolic proteins such as PEPCK and FASN. However, like Dex, avicin D treatment does induce a transrepressive effect on the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB. While avicin's ability to inhibit NF-κB and its downstream targets appear to be GR-dependent, its pro-apoptotic effects were independent of GR expression. Using various deletion mutants of GR, we demonstrate the requirement of both the DNA and ligand binding domains of GR in mediating avicin D's transrepressive effects. Modeling of avicin-GR interaction revealed that avicin molecule binds only to the antagonist confirmation of GR. These findings suggest that avicin D has properties of being a selective GR modulator that separates transactivation from transrepression. Since the gene-activating properties of GR are mainly linked to its metabolic effects, and the negative interference with the activity of transcription factors to its anti-inflammatory and immune suppressive effects, the identification of such a dissociated GR ligand could have great potential for therapeutic use.
Discrepancies in reported US pricing information for digoxin-Fab

To the Editor: Chan and Buckley discuss the increasing costs of digoxin-specific antibody Fab fragments (digoxin-Fab) in their recent review published in Clinical Toxicology.1 They report a price i...
Dissolution rate and bioavailability enhancement of co-ground mixtures of paliperidone, with different hydrophilic carriers

Co-ground mixtures of poorly water soluble drug Paliperidone (PAL) with different hydrophilic carriers [Polyvinylpyrrolidine (Plasdone K-25 and Plasdone S-630), Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), Hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) and Sodium alginate were prepared to improve the dissolution rate of PAL. Co-grinding with PVP, especially with PVP- S630 (Vinyl pyrrolidone/ vinyl acetate co-polymer), was more effective in reduction of particle size than milling of drug alone. DSC studies indicated that crystalline nature of drug was reduced after co-grinding with PVP grades as compared to their corresponding physical mixtures. The hydrophilic carriers other than PVP did not reduce the crystalline nature of the drug significantly. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was carried out for selected batches to confirm DSC results. Significant enhancement in dissolution rate as well as extent was observed with co-ground mixtures of drug and PVP. Among all the prepared batches in this study, co-ground mixture of PAL and Plasdone S-630 in 1:1 ratio showed best results in terms of extent of dissolution as well as dissolution rate in water. This effect was not only due to particle size reduction, but also loss of crystalline nature of the drug during co-grinding. PVP was found to be a better carrier among the different hydrophilic carriers used in the study for improving the dissolution characteristics of PAL. The extent of the mean plasma exposures of PAL was 7-fold higher in animals treated with co-ground mixture of PAL, Plasdone S630 (1:1) compared to animals treated with Pure PAL. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icpj.v2i3.13632 International Current Pharmaceutical Journal, February 2013, 2(3): 70-77
Political economy of international diversification: The case for partial integration

The literature on international portfolio diversification explored the benefits of international diversification and the pricing of securities in an international context largely from the perspective of an integrated world capital market. Imperfections in the international markets were acknowledged as exogenous variables added to the basically integrated market, and their effects on security prices, consequences of diversification,etc, were then measured. All studies are related, explicitly or implicitly to two extreme situations. One extreme situation is complete segmentation, the other is perfect market integration. This paper begins with a literature review to illustrate the inadequacy of either of the extreme situations described above. A case of partial integration where the barriers are an endogenous part of the model is then presented. Indirect and circumstantial evidence that the international financial markets are partially integrated by design, and not as a result of market failures, is then presented as a preliminary validation of the partial integration model.
Molecular characterization of an atypical Old World strain of Peanut stunt virus

Northern blot analyses of RNAs from an Iranian strain of Peanut stunt virus (PSV-I Cucumovirus) using cloned cDNA probes to the genomic RNAs from two PSV strains, PSV-ER (subgroup I) and PSV-W (subgroup II), indicated that PSV-I RNA-3 is derived from a subgroup II strain. No hybridization signals, however, were detected with PSV-I RNAs 1 and 2 suggesting they are distinct from both subgroups I and II. Nucleotide (nt) sequence analysis of cloned cDNA fragments (1–1.5 kbp in size) representing PSV-I RNAs 1 and 2 showed that PSV-I is more closely related to subgroup II strains than to any other sequenced cucumovirus. The percent nt identity between RNA-1 sequences from PSV-I and PSV-ER or between PSV-I and PSV-W were 79.1% and 88.8%, respectively. The corresponding values for RNA-2 were 77.5% and 86.7%. Sequence comparison analyses of deduced amino acid sequence of cloned partial sequences of PSV-I RNAs 1 and 2 indicated that PSV-I 1a and 2a proteins are most closely related to those of subgroup II strains (93% identity). PSV-I supported the replication and encapsidation of PSV G-satellite RNA (G-satRNA), but not cucumber mosaic virus WL1-satRNA. PSV-I may be perceived as an Old World derivative of subgroup II strains, or it may represent a natural reassortment between a subgroup II (RNA-3) and an as yet uncharacterized subgroup of PSV strains (RNAs 1 and 2).
Policing by consent decree: an analysis of 42 U.S.C. § 14141 and the new model for police accountability

In 1994 Congress passed the Violent Control and Law Enforcement Act which authorized the federal government to investigate and bring suit against a police entity in certain cases of police misconduct. There have been 70 investigations which have resulted in 22 consent decrees and/or memorandum of agreements. This paper examines the efficacy of the legislation. It also comments on whether or not this Act violates the principle of federalism, predicts emerging public policy issues, and underscores resultant unintended consequences.
Plasmapheresis for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP).

A 70-year-old woman with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) was treated with plasmapheresis using fresh frozen plasma as a fluid replacement. Complete recovery and lasting remission were observed. It apprears that plasmapheresis combined with massive fresh frozen plasma can be an effective mode of treatment for patients who were, otherwise, refractory to conventional therapy.
Liquid Crystalline and Surfactant Properties of Alkyl Pyridinium Salts

Abstract Several new alkyl pyridinium salts, namely 1-n-alkyl-4-cyanopyridinium bromides with alkyl chains containing 14, 16, and 18 carbon atoms, were synthesized, and their mesomorphic and micellar properties were studied. For compounds with 16 and 18 carbons in the alkyl chain, a thermotropic smectic A phase is present. The compounds also behave as surfactants in dilute aqueous solutions, and the Krafft temperature and the critical micelle concentration of each compound were determined.
Challenging Waiting For Superman Through Detournement1

Waiting for Superman (2010) is a film directed by Davis Guggenheim, who won an Academy Award for the documentary An Inconvenient Truth (2006). Billing itself on its DVD cover as a “groundbreaking feature film that provides an engaging and inspiring look at public education in the United States,” Waiting for Superman received mostly glowing reviews in the mainstream media, won several film festival awards, and Guggenheim and the film’s heroes have been celebrated guests on dozens of news channels and talk shows, along with receiving high praise from President Obama, Bill Clinton, and other powerful political luminaries.
Outcomes of individuals with profound and partial biotinidase deficiency ascertained by newborn screening in Michigan over 25 years

Outcomes of individuals with profound and partial biotinidase deficiency ascertained by newborn screening in Michigan over 25 years
Genetic analysis of male sterility in rice mutants with environmentally influenced levels of fertility

Twenty-six male sterile plants grown in the field were recovered in the M7 generation from ethyl methane sulfonate-treated material of the rice cultivar M-201. Fertility increased five-fold when ratooned plants from the field were grown in a growth chamber with a 12 hour daylength. Crosses between mutant and normal fertile cultivars produced fertile F1 plants. Female fertility was normal as judged by percent seed set from unbagged panicles of parental and recombinant lines. Transgressive segregation for fertility was observed for all crosses in the F2 and F3 generations. Five of 37 F3 male sterile plants showed moderate levels of seed fertility under winter greenhouse conditions and reduced seed set when transplanted to summer field plots. Fertility data from reciprocal crosses suggested cytoplasmic factors had little or no effect on levels of male sterility in the mutant lines. Chi-squared analyses of F2 and F3 generation results indicated male sterility of the mutants is conditioned by two nuclear genes with epistatic effects.
Preparation and some properties of tung oil monoglycerides

Several methods for the preparation of tung oil monoglycerides were investigated. Products richest in both monoglyceride (78%) and triene conjugation (63% as eleostearic acid) were obtained by glycerolysis with sodium methoxide in pyridine solution. Attempts to increase the content of monoglyceride and triene conjugation by selective solvents were unsuccessful. The monoglycerides were effective in lowering the surface tension of water as well as the interfacial tension of several oils, including tung oil, against water. The tung oil monoglycerides behaved as fugitive emulsifiers and, after drying, retarded the removal of spray residue (lead arsenate) by washing with a water spray more than did other emulsifiers, such as cottonseed oil monoglycerides. The ammonium soap of tung oil fatty acids also acted as a fugitive emulsifier.