cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polyamine analysis using N-hydroxysuccinimidyl-6-aminoquinoyl carbamate for pre-column derivatization

N-Hydroxysuccinimidyl-6-aminoquinoyl carbamate (AccQ.Fluor) was used as a polyamine pre-column derivatization reagent prior to HPLC analysis using a 5-micron C8 reversed-phase column. The fluorescence detector excitation wavelength was set at 250 nm and emission at 395 nm. Quantitation, reproducibility, linearity, recovery and stability were demonstrated. The lower limit of detection was 660 fmol. This method is 45 and 61 times more sensitive than those using the pre-column derivatizing agents dansyl chloride and orthophthalaldehyde, respectively. Applicability to biological samples was demonstrated by analyses of polyamines in extracts of mouse erythrocytes and Trypanosoma brucei brucei.
Quantum ghost image discrimination with a single photon pair

A quantum ghost imaging scheme is modified to discriminate between two spatially non-overlapping objects using a single pair of entangled photons. The “ghost” image information is extracted by means of holographic filtering and coincidence detection.
The Revised Perceived Environmental Control Measure: A Review and Analysis

Abstract The desire to explore the relationship between the psychological construct known as locus of control and environmental action or environmentally responsible behavior has been progressing since the late 1970s. The Revised Perceived Environmental Control Measure is purported to be a reliable and valid instrument to measure the relationship. After minor modifications, the measure was administered to 751 university students to assess the claims of reliability and validity. Concurrent, construct, and face validity and internal consistency were analyzed. Neither construct validity nor internal consistency were supported by the data. Concurrent validity was statistically significant but very weak. These results indicate that the RPECM is in need of extensive refinement.
Carbon dioxide: Adsorption on palagonite and partitioning in the Martian regolith

Abstract We report new CO 2 adsorption measurements on palagonites. These results are used together with earlier results on basalt and nontronite adsorption to derive a “generic” relationship which is valid to within a factor of 3 for likely mixtures of basalt and weathering products of basalt. The relationship involves only t, P CO 2 , and the specific surface area, and is relatively insensitive to mineralogy. It is used to predict the distribution and exchange of CO 2 on Mars. We conclude: (1) One to two orders of magnitude more CO 2 is adsorbed on the regolith than is present in the atmosphere and cap. (2) Nonetheless, most of the initially degassed CO 2 must have been lost to space or must be present as carbonates, especially if there was enough degassed CO 2 to provide a significant early greenhouse effect. (3) Given the derived relationship, the CO 2 vapor pressure curve, and the constraint that the system exhibits the current P CO 2 at the current obliquity, it is possible to predict approximately the atmospheric pressure at any obliquity (with or without a cap) without knowing the total available CO 2 inventory, the regolith mass, the regolith distribution, or its mineralogy, any better than those parameters are currently known.
AN EXAMINATION OF THE 'VALIDITY OF TWO MODELS OF ATTITUDE

A structural equation methodology is used to assess the reliability and validity of expectancy-value and semantic differential measures of attitude toward the act of donating blood. Hypotheses as to the internal consistency and the convergent, concurrent, discriminant, predictive, and nomological validities of responses are tested in the context of a quasi-experiment performed on 284 students, faculty, and staff. Semantic differential attitudes are found to exist as unidimensional responses while expectancy-value attitudes are found to occur as multidimensional reactions. However, although both operationalizations achieve convergent, concurrent, discriminant, and predictive validity, the nomological validity of attitude is brought into question. The extent of past behavior and the elapsed time since performance of that behavior appear to offer the greatest explanatory content for subsequent behavioral intentions. Finally, the role of personal and social normative beliefs as copredictors of intentions along with attitude and past behavior is also investigated. The findings are interpreted from attitude, learning, and attribution theory arguments.
An improved model for crystalline orientation of spherulitic polymers

A model is proposed to account for the orientation of crystals in spherulites upon deforming a polymer. The model assumes affine deformation of the spherulite accompanied by three processes of crystal reorientation within the spherulite. These are tilting of molecular chains with respect to the plane of the lamellae, characterized by a parameter K, twisting of the lamallae about the spherulite radii described by η, and rotation of the b crystal axis about the c axis characterized by a third parameter, P. Values of these parameters are fitted to measured orientation functions and compared with experimental measurements of the azimuthal variation of the intensities of the 110 and 200 crystal reflections from low-density polyethylene. Good agreement is found between the experimental and theoretically predicted intensity variation. Time-dependent experiments under relaxational and vibrational conditions are also treated by the theory.
A short-term follow-up of patients with depressive disorder on entry into home dialysis training

Fifteen (18%) of 83 patients entering home hemodialysis training were found to suffer major depressive disorder diagnosed by rigorous clinical criteria. The diagnosis of depressive disorder was associated with a diagnosis of polycystic kidney disease. It was not, however, associated with past or family history of affective illness. Neither intellectual impairment nor chemical uremia were more pronounced in the patients with depressive disorder than in the patients without depressive disorder. Depressive symptoms almost invariably remitted during home dialysis training and had no apparent influence on outcome on the basis of a short-term (3-month) follow-up.
Applications of geospatial analysis to surveillance data: a spatial examination of HIV/AIDS prevalence in Zambia

Techniques of spatial statistics and GIS are applied to socio-economic, demographic and HIV sentinel data to characterize the geographical distribution of HIV prevalence in Zambia and to estimate current prevalence rates. Maps of the 4 years under study (i.e. 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2004) reveal a spatial variation in HIV prevalence with urban and provincial districts having higher prevalence than rural areas. However, there was an overall trend of decrease in HIV prevalence across the country. The year 2004 exhibited the most reduction, coinciding with protective sexual behavior campaigns operating in the country. Risk factors for HIV prevalence included literacy rates, unemployment, poverty and urban residency. Analysis of regression residual maps indicated high spatial autocorrelation: Moran’s I value was 0.28 (z = 4.12 and p < 0.000) and a highly significant Robust LM (lag; p < 0.00000) suggestive of contagious and hierarchic spatial diffusion processes. High HIV prevalence rates among interdependent districts and locational similarity patterns suggest that HIV control programs in the country would require an integrated approach combining HIV prevention messages as well as an understanding of social and cultural interactions between interdependent districts that produce behavioral diffusion of HIV prevalence rates.
Generation of induced pluripotent stem cells in the absence of drug selection.

Summary Reprogramming of somatic cells to the pluripotent stem cell state may allow the development of in vitro models of disease and could provide a mechanism for the generation of patient-specific cells of therapeutic interest. Reprogramming of mouse fibroblasts into induced pluripotent stem cells, or iPS cells, has been achieved with overexpression of oct4 , sox2 , klf4 , and c -myc and drug selection for the reactivation of a marker of pluripotency (Maherali et al., 2007; Okita et al., 2007; Takahashi and Yamanaka, 2006; Wernig et al., 2007) (reviewed in Yamanaka, 2007). Here we show that n -myc can substitute for c -myc and that drug selection is dispensable for reprogramming of fibroblasts to pluripotent stem cells. We show that serum-free conditions facilitate reprogramming and that the resulting induced pluripotent stem cells contribute extensively to teratomas and chimeras. Our findings greatly simplify the method for induction of pluripotency and bring it one step closer to clinical applications.
The Evolution of the State and Local Government Municipal Debt Market over the Past Quarter Century

Much has happened in the municipal bond market during the past 25 years. This article provides a retrospective of some of the significant developments in the market during that period of time. These developments include passage of the Tax Reform Act of 1986, innovations in the market in response to changing economic and social conditions, and the regulation, increase in disclosure requirements, and proliferatioin of credit enhancements that renewed the efficacy of municipal securities for American state and local governments.
Creeping bentgrass establishment on amended-sand root zones in two microenvironments

Sand-based root zones are commonly used for construction of golf course putting greens. Objectives of this field study were to (i) evaluate sand-based root zone mixtures varying in amendment (fine loam, peat, and inorganic) on the establishment of 'L-93' creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.), (ii) compare findings to related published studies, and (iii) repeat the trial in two locations varying in air circulation to assess microenvironmental effect. Eleven root zone mixtures, using predominantly medium-sized sand as the majority component, were replicated four times in a randomized complete block design nested within the two microenvironments. Plots were seeded in May 1998 and establishment was assessed to June 1999. Mixtures with a capillary porosity (-3 kPa water potential) at the high end of, or slightly exceeding, the United States Golf Association (USGA) criterion range (0.15-0.25 m 3 m -3 ) provided more rapid establishment and better turf performance, yet root mass was lowest in these mixtures. Thus, variation in water availability among mixtures appeared sufficient to affect distribution of dry matter between roots and shoots. Mixtures amended to provide greater nutrient retention improved turf establishment; however, low water retention in the inorganic mixtures negated this advantage longer term as irrigation and fertilization shifted from establishment toward a maintenance objective. While shoot response to microenvironment was more limited, total root mass 1 yr after seeding was 24% greater in the open microenvironment than the enclosed, indicating that the initial effect of enclosed microenvironments on growth may go unrecognized during grow-in unless rooting is assessed.
BMP4 Sufficiency to Induce Choroid Plexus Epithelial Fate from Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Neuroepithelial Progenitors

Choroid plexus epithelial cells (CPECs) have essential developmental and homeostatic roles related to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood-CSF barrier they produce. Accordingly, CPEC dysfunction has been implicated in many neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, and transplant studies have provided proof-of-concept for CPEC-based therapies. However, such therapies have been hindered by the inability to expand or generate CPECs in culture. During development, CPECs differentiate from preneurogenic neuroepithelial cells and require Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling, but whether BMPs suffice for CPEC induction is unknown. Here we provide evidence for BMP4 sufficiency to induce CPEC fate from neural progenitors derived from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). CPEC specification by BMP4 was restricted to an early time period after neural induction in culture, with peak CPEC competency correlating to neuroepithelial cells rather than radial glia. In addition to molecular, cellular, and ultrastructural criteria, derived CPECs (dCPECs) had functions that were indistinguishable from primary CPECs, including self-assembly into secretory vesicles and integration into endogenous choroid plexus epithelium following intraventricular injection. We then used BMP4 to generate dCPECs from human ESC-derived neuroepithelial cells. These findings demonstrate BMP4 sufficiency to instruct CPEC fate, expand the repertoire of stem cell-derived neural derivatives in culture, and herald dCPEC-based therapeutic applications aimed at the unique interface between blood, CSF, and brain governed by CPECs.
Role of TGF-beta1 in platelet-mediated cardioprotection during ischemia-reperfusion in isolated rat hearts.

AbstractPlatelets protect myocardium against ischemia-reperfusion injury. This study examined the role of platelet-derived TGF-β1 in cardioprotection during ischemia-reperfusion. Isolated Sprague Dawley rat hearts were perfused with K-H buffer and subjected to 25 min of global ischemia followed by 30 min of reperfusion. Ischemia-reperfusion resulted in myocardial dysfunction indicated by increase in CPP and LVEDP, and decrease in dLVP. Perfusion of hearts with washed platelets or supernatant of aggregated platelets attenuated (P < 0.01) of myocardial dysfunction following ischemia-reperfusion. Ischemia-reperfusion resulted in a decrease in myocardial TGF-β1 determined by immunohistochemistry. ELISA showed an increase in latent TGF-/β1, but a decrease in active TGF-β1, Perfusion of hearts with platelets or aggregated platelet supernatant preserved myocardial TGF-β1 content upon ischemia-reperfusion. Perfusion of hearts with recombinant TGF-β1 also resulted in cardioprotection following ischemia-reperfusion...
American Pancreatic Association practice guidelines in chronic pancreatitis evidence-based report on diagnostic guidelines

The diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis remains challenging in early stages of the disease. This report defines the diagnostic criteria useful in the assessment of patients with suspected and established chronic pancreatitis. All current diagnostic procedures are reviewed, and evidence-based statements are provided about their utility and limitations. Diagnostic criteria for chronic pancreatitis are classified as definitive, probable, or insufficient evidence. A diagnostic (STEP-wise; survey, tomography, endoscopy, and pancreas function testing) algorithm is proposed that proceeds from a noninvasive to a more invasive approach. This algorithm maximizes specificity (low false-positive rate) in subjects with chronic abdominal pain and equivocal imaging changes. Furthermore, a nomenclature is suggested to further characterize patients with established chronic pancreatitis based on TIGAR-O (toxic, idiopathic, genetic, autoimmune, recurrent, and obstructive) etiology, gland morphology (Cambridge criteria), and physiologic state (exocrine, endocrine function) for uniformity across future multicenter research collaborations. This guideline will serve as a baseline manuscript that will be modified as new evidence becomes available and our knowledge of chronic pancreatitis improves.
Democracy, Courts, and the Schools

James P. Shaver Professor and Associate Dean for Research College of Education Utah State University Logan, Utah The role of the courts in our democratic society is a topic that should be of interest to every teacher and administrator. Perhaps the most obvious reason for concern is the substantial potential of the courts for influencing school policy and practices. The exertion of judicial power became particularly salient for many professional educators, as well as the lay public, with the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in the now famous Brown case' that racial segregation in public schools denies the equal protection of the law guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution and is, therefore, unconstitutional. The Court's follow-up decision2 on the implementation of Brown gave the U.S. District Courts broad discretion in evaluating and approving remedies for the school segregation complaints brought before them. And an extensive series of cases dealing with desegregation plans has followed, involving remedies such as modifying attendance zones, busing students, and merging school districts, all considered with an eye to the educational risks or benefits for children.3 Litigation about other educational matters for example, school finance,4 the need for bilingual instruction,5 and the obligation of school districts to provide education for handicapped children6 has also had widespread implications for schooling. Nevertheless, there is some evidence (e.g., Zirkel, 1978) that school leaders often lack knowledge of school-relevant court decisions. It might appear from the selected cases mentioned above that matters involving school policy have been before the courts only in recent years. But the adjudication of school-related policy issues is not a recent phenomenon. The Massachusetts courts decided in 18507 that it was not, on the face of it, unreasonable for the Boston School Committee to segregate schools by the race. The famous Tennessee Monkey (Scopes) Trial was held in 1925. The concern of the U.S. Supreme Court with the denial of students' civil rights was evidenced some 35 years ago in West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette. 8 In that decision, the Court held that an attempt to force a student to participate in saluting the American flag was a denial of First Amendment
A Qualitative Study of Juvenile Offenders, Student Engagement, and Interpersonal Relationships: Implications for Research Directions and Preventionist Approaches

Background factors that correlate with juvenile delinquency are consistent across the interdisciplinary literature base. Yet, information about the process of how risks relate to outcomes, especial...
Plasma progesterone levels in pregnant, pseudopregnant and anestrous ferrets.

Luteal function in the ferret has been assessed on the basis of plasma progesterone levels. During anestrus, the plasma progesterone level was 3.1 ±0.42 ng/ml. The plasma progesterone level in ferrets on day 30 of pregnancy was 8.4 ±2.6 ng/ml as compared to 8.9 ±2.2 ng/ml in animals on day 30 of pseudopregnancy. These levels reflect the similarity in the amounts of lutein tissue observed in the 2 groups of animals.animals. In contrast, ferrets treated with human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) had plasma progesterone levels of 21.0 ±4.0 and 19.5 ±4.2 ng/ml plasma on days 5 and 30 after treatment. These elevated levels were felt to be representative of the greater number of corpora lutea in the ovaries of the HCG-treated ferrets. (Endocrinology 85: 623, 1969)
Optical processors for smart structures

ABSTRACT For underwater fiber-optic sensor arrays containing hundreds of sensors as well as smartaerospace structures and skins using fiber-optic strain sensor arrays, the output of thesensors are optical signals that are a function of the measurand. We are also employingoptical signals to energize smart-structure actuators (shape-memory alloys). An all-opticalprocessor would thus seem to be the logical choice for the processor since we mustsimultaneously process, in real time, multiple optical input (sensor) signals and generate multiple output (actuator) signals. In addition, with an all-optical processor, there would beno reduction in processor performance due to converting between optical and electricalsignals. We are developing hybrid optical processors1 using an artificial neural networkarchitecture to process the sensor inputs and calculate the resultant strain and opticalcontrol signals. This paper describes the computer simulations and experimental resultsperformed to date. These results indicate that neural network architectures can successfullyperform these very high-speed calculations with the desired accuracy. The currentlimitation in an all-optical implementation is in the performance of available bi-stableoptical gate arrays.
Toxicity of gallium and beryllium to developing carp eggs (Cyprinus carpio) utilizing copper as a reference

Abstract The toxicity of beryllium, and gallium to developing carp eggs ( Cyprinus carpio ) was investigated utilizing the toxicity of copper as a reference. Compounds tested were CuSO 4 · 5H 2 O, Be(NO 3 ) 2 · 3H 2 O, and Ga 2 (SO 4 ) 3 . Copper and beryllium concentrations up to 0.08–0.09 ppm did not appear to reduce hatching success of carp eggs in comparison to control (untreated) eggs. Exposure to gallium concentrations of up to 2.4 ppm did not reduce hatching success. None of the eggs hatched (0% hatch) at concentrations above 0.7 ppm for copper and above 0.2 ppm for beryllium. Gallium completely inhibited hatching success at 17 ppm but it cannot be determined from the data what effect concentrations of gallium between 2.4—17 ppm have on hatching success. The use of a reference element in toxicity screening is discussed.
A theoretical study of the aminolysis reaction of lysine 199 of human serum albumin with benzylpenicillin: consequences for immunochemistry of penicillins.

Herein, we present results of a computational study on benzylpenicillin attachment to Lys199 of human serum albumin via an aminolysis reaction. The internal geometry of the reactive part of the system was taken from previous work at the B3LYP/6-31+G* level on the water-assisted aminolysis reaction of a penicillin model compound (Diaz, N.; Suarez, D.; Sordo, T. L. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2000, 122, 6710−6719). The protein environment around Lys199, the 6-acylamino side chain, and the 2-methyl groups of benzylpenicillin were relaxed by carrying out geometry optimizations with a hybrid QM/MM method (PM3/AMBER). Two different mechanistic routes were explored: a one-step water-assisted process and a carboxylate and water-assisted route in which the β-lactam carboxylate and the ancillary water molecule mediate the proton transfer from the e-amino group of Lys199 to the β-lactam leaving N atom. The corresponding energy profiles in the protein combine the B3LYP/6-31+G* and PM3 energies of the reactive subsystem (benzy...
Competing for Time: School and Teenage Employment

Most young people who work are employed in low-paying jobs with little or no growth or learning potential. These writers believe that the relationship between school and work must be maximized, and that more attention must be paid to ensuring positive outcomes from the work experience.
Wide dynamic range detection with a charge injection device (CID) for quantitative plasma emission spectroscopy

The operation and performance of an analytical plasma emission spectrometer based on an echelle polychromator and a charge injection device (CID) two-dimensional multichannel array detector is described. Quantitative analysis methodology for measuring the intensity of emission lines over a wide dynamic range is presented. The procedure involves varying the integration time on the detector for each spectral line, based on the intensity of that line, in a process called random access integration (RAI). The factors that determine the maximum number of spectral lines that may be simultaneously observed are presented. With current CID technology these include the size of the array, the intensity of spectral lines at the focal plane, and the size of the subarrays used to record the line intensities. The sensitivity and dynamic range of the system equal those of emission spectrometers employing photomultiplier tubes, and the flexibility to use any spectral line, or group of lines, for a particular element provides unprecedented ability to perform simultaneous multielement trace analysis in complex mixtures. Background intensity in the vicinity of each spectral line is measured simultaneously, enabling precise spectral background corrections. The simultaneous availability of the information from the entire emission spectrum allows spectral features of diagnostic value such as argon, hydroxide, and carbon emission to be monitored, as well as spectral features due to the principal components of the sample matrix. Changes in analysis conditions or matrix composition can be detected because of the availability of this additional information, thereby increasing the reliability of the analytical results.
Regulation of cyclic nucleotide hydrolysis by cGMP

In this presentation I will discuss some of the physiological roles played by cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases that either hydrolyze cGMP or are regulated by cGMP. This will include potential new roles for PDE1B in the differentiation of monocytes into macrophages and dendritic cells. I will also discuss the concept that in many systems cAMP and cGMP act as physiological "brakes" on the function of the cells. Recently, it is becoming clear that one of the major reasons for having so many different cyclic nucleotide phosophodiesterases in the genome, is so that their expression can be individually regulated as a mechanism of releasing these "brakes" and thereby allowing the function to proceed. Examples that will be discussed include, regulation of fluid volume in the circulatory system, activation and function of T cells, proliferation of smooth muscle, and differentiation of monocytes. Finally, I will discuss some of the structural basis for the ability of cGMP to bind to and activate the cyclic nucleotide binding GAF domains on several different phosphodiesterases. from 2nd International Conference of cGMP Generators, Effectors and Therapeutic Implications Potsdam, Germany, 10–12 June, 2005
Correction procedures in observational learning

Informative feedback to the performer was varied in a study of observational learning. The task required Ss to learn to discriminate the correct member of each of a number of groups of three line-tilt designs. One group was always shown the correct design in the event of an error (SC), another was allowed to continue responding until the correct design was found (DC), and the third group received only outcome correction (OC) on error choices. Test trial data indicated that OC generally produced poorer performance than SC or DC, but there was no difference for the performer vs the observer. This suggests the comparability of processes in observation and performance, at least in terms of differences induced by correction procedures.
Normal glycosaminoglycan production in a galactosylation-defective lectin-resistant CHO cell variant.

Abstract CHO cell variant clone 13 fails to incorporate galactose into either glycolipids or asn-linked oligosaccharides, even though intracellular UDP-galactose pools, galactosyltransferases, and galactose-acceptor macromolecules are normal. Clone 13 is now shown to produce normal amounts of chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate, the biosynthesis of which necessarily involves synthesis of a galactose-containing tetrasaccharide sequence. This is the first evidence of galactosyltransfer reactions which proceed normally in clone 13. Based on the known subcellular sites of glycosyltransfer reactions, it is proposed that a Golgi-specific defect involving compartmentalization may be responsible for the clone 13 trait.
Detection of Changes in a Multinomial Process

We look at a multinomial distribution where the probabilities of landing in each category change at some unknown integer. We assume that the probability structure both before and after the change is known, and the problem is to find the probability that the probability structure has changed. For a loss function consisting of the cost of late detection and a penalty for early stopping, we develop, using dynamic programming, the one and two steps look ahead Bayesian stopping rules. We provide some numerical results to illustrate the effectiveness of the detection procedures. We show that the two step ahead procedure is a slight improvement over the one step ahead procedure. However the two procedures are very consistant in their stopping times.
Antidepressant Treatment of Very Old Patients.

Most studies of the elderly use age 65 as the definition of the onset of old age, and most studies of the pharmacologic treatment of depression in the elderly focus on patients between the ages of 60 and 70. Very few patients over the age of 75 have been specifically studied, and virtually none over the age of 80. Data for this review of treatment of depressed patients over the age of 75 were derived from a larger review prepared for a 1992 NIMH consensus development conference on the diagnosis and treatment of depression in late life. Available studies were divided into three categories: 1) mixed-age studies that include subjects over 75 (n = 18); 2) mixed-age reports of patients having a mean age of 75 or older (n = 13); and 3) reports including only patients with minimum age of 75 years or older (>n = 5). Data are available from only 171 identifiable patients over the age of 75. Consequently, available data for patients in this very old age category are too limited for reliable or valid treatment recommendations to be made; further research is necessary.
Tumor monocyte cross talk promotes lymphoma cell resistance to chemotherapy

Meeting abstracts Immune editing is a major mechanism used by tumors to promote its survival. We have reported previously the presence of a novel phenotype of immunosuppressive monocytes (CD14+HLA-DR low/neg) in a number of cancers. Increased presence of these cells was associated with decreased
Prospective randomized comparison of simultaneous and sequential bilateral laser in situ keratomileusis for the correction of myopia

Abstract Objective To study the safety and efficacy of simultaneous bilateral laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Design Prospective randomized clinical trial. Participants Fourteen surgeons and 714 consecutive eyes of 357 patients who desired surgical correction of myopia ranging from −2.00 to −22.50 diopters. Intervention Patients were randomized to simultaneous or sequential bilateral LASIK. Main outcome measures Primary outcome measures were safety and efficacy. Procedure safety was assessed, for simultaneous and sequential groups, by comparison of intraoperative and postoperative complication rates and the percentage of eyes losing two or more lines of spectacle-corrected visual acuity. Procedure efficacy was assessed by comparison of the percentage of eyes with uncorrected visual acuity better than or equal to 20/20 and 20/40 and the percentage of eyes within ±0.50 and ±1.00 diopters of intended outcome. Results Three hundred seventy-eight eyes were enrolled in the simultaneous group, and 331 eyes were enrolled in the sequential group. Mean follow-up was 10 months (±4.2 months standard deviation; range, 2 weeks-22 months). There was no significant difference in intraoperative complication rate ( P = 0.55), loss of two or more lines of spectacle-corrected visual acuity ( P = 0.87), or percentage of eyes within ±0.50 diopters of intended correction ( P = 0.17) between simultaneous and sequential groups. Postoperative complications were not significantly different in the two groups except for the unexplained more frequent epithelial ingrowth in the simultaneous group (2.9%) than in the sequential group (0.6%). The adjusted odds ratio for epithelial ingrowth in the simultaneous group was 1.02 (95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.08). There was no increased likelihood of epithelial ingrowth in the second of two simultaneously treated eyes ( P = 0.95). Conclusion The outcomes and complications of performing bilateral simultaneous LASIK were not significantly different from those of sequential treatments, with the unexplained exception of more frequent epithelial ingrowth in the simultaneous group.
Conceptual perspective taking: children's ability to distinguish what they know from what they see.

One part of understanding the difference between external reality and mental life involves the ability to differentiate what is seen from what is known. This research investigated the development of children's ability to make the seeing-knowing distinction in the context of conceptual perspective taking. In Experiment 1, 2 developmental levels were found to account for children's performance when asked about a naive observer's knowledge of the identity of objects. At Level 1 (from about 4-6 years of age), children tend to behave as if seeing part of an object is sufficient for someone to share the children's knowledge of the object's identity. Even at 4 years of age, however, children often realize that a small, nondescript part of an object does not provide sufficient information for an observer to know the object's present actions (e.g., that a rabbit is jumping) or nonperceptual information about the object (e.g., that the rabbit has a brother). At Level 2 (after about 6 years of age), children appreciate that someone who shares their visual perspective may not be able to identify the object in view. In Experiment 2, 4- and 6-year-old children were given training designed to make them aware that there may be many interpretations for the same information. 4-year-old children in the training condition performed significantly better on subsequent perspective-taking tasks.
Putting the plants back into plant ecology: six pragmatic models for understanding and conserving plant diversity.

Background There is a compelling need to protect natural plant communities and restore them in degraded landscapes. Activities must be guided by sound scientific principles, practical conservation tools, and clear priorities. With perhaps one-third of the world’s flora facing extinction, scientists and conservation managers will need to work rapidly and collaboratively, recognizing each other’s strengths and limitations. As a guide to assist managers in maintaining plant diversity, six pragmatic models are introduced that are already available. Although theoretical models continue to receive far more space and headlines in scientific journals, more managers need to understand that pragmatic, rather than theoretical, models have the most promise for yielding results that can be applied immediately to plant communities. Six Pragmatic Models For each model, key citations and an array of examples are provided, with particular emphasis on wetlands, since ‘wet and wild’ was my assigned theme for the Botanical Society of America in 2003. My own work may seem rather prominent, but the application and refinement of these models has been a theme for me and my many students over decades. The following models are reviewed: (1) species‐area: larger areas usually contain more species; (2) species‐biomass: plant diversity is maximized at intermediate levels of biomass; (3) centrifugal organization: multiple intersecting environmental gradients maintain regional landscape biodiversity; (4) species‐frequency: a few species are frequent while most are infrequent; (5) competitive hierarchies: in the absence of constraints, large canopy-forming species dominate patches of landscape, reducing biological diversity; and (6) intermediate disturbance: perturbations such as water level fluctuations, fire and grazing are essential for maintaining plant diversity. Conclusions The good news is that managers faced with protecting or restoring landscapes already have this arsenal of tools at their disposal. The bad news is that far too few of these models are appreciated.
Establishing handwriting individuality using pattern recognition techniques

We undertook a study to objectively validate the hypothesis that handwriting is individualistic. Handwriting samples of one thousand five hundred individuals, representative of the US population with respect to gender age, ethnic groups, etc., were obtained. Analyzing differences in handwriting was done by using computer algorithms for extracting features from scanned images of handwriting. Attributes characteristic of the handwriting were obtained, e.g., line separation, slant, character shapes, etc. These attributes, which are a subset of attributes used by expert document examiners, were used to quantitatively establish individuality by using machine learning approaches. Using global attributes of handwriting and very few characters in the writing, the ability to determine the writer with a high degree of confidence was established. The work is a step towards providing scientific support for admitting handwriting evidence in court. The mathematical approach and the resulting software also have the promise of aiding the expert document examiner.
Some aspects of adaptive grid technology related to boundary and interior layers

We consider the use of adaptive mesh strategies for solution of problems exhibiting boundary and interior layer solutions. As the presence of these layer structures suggests, reliable and accurate solution of this class of problems using finite difference, finite volume or finite element schemes requires grading the mesh into the layers and due attention to the associated algorithms. When the nature and structure of the layer is known, mesh grading can be achieved during the grid generation by specifying an appropriate grading function. However, in many applications the location and nature of the layer behavior is not known in advance. Consequently, adaptive mesh techniques that employ feedback from intermediate grid solutions are an appealing approach. In this paper, we provide a brief overview of the main adaptive grid strategies in the context of problems with layers. Associated error indicators that guide the refinement feedback control/grid optimization process are also covered and there is a brief commentary on the supporting data structure requirements. Some current issues concerning the use of stabilization in conjunction with adaptive mesh refinement (AMR), the question of "pollution effects" in computation of local error indicators, the influence of nonlinearities and the design of meshes for targeted optimization of specific quantities are considered. The application of AMR for layer problems is illustrated by means of case studies from semiconductor device transport (drift diffusion), nonlinear reaction-diffusion, layers due to surface capillary effects, and shockwaves in compressible gas dynamics.
Lipoprotein Receptor Binding, Cellular Uptake, and Lysosomal Delivery of Fusions between the Receptor-associated Protein (RAP) and α-l-Iduronidase or Acid α-Glucosidase

Enzyme replacement therapy for lysosomal storage disorders depends on efficient uptake of recombinant enzyme into the tissues of patients. This uptake is mediated by oligosaccharide receptors including the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor and the mannose receptor. We have sought to exploit alternative receptor systems that are independent of glycosylation but allow for efficient delivery to the lysosome. Fusions of the human lysosomal enzymes alpha-l-iduronidase or acid alpha-glucosidase with the receptor-associated protein were efficiently endocytosed by lysosomal storage disorder patient fibroblasts, rat C6 glioma cells, mouse C2C12 myoblasts, and recombinant Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing individual members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family. Uptake of the fusions exceeded that of phosphorylated enzyme in all cases, often by an order of magnitude or greater. Uptake was specifically mediated by members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor protein family and was followed by delivery of the fusions to the lysosome. The advantages of the lipoprotein receptor system over oligosaccharide receptor systems include more efficient cellular delivery and the potential for transcytosis of ligands across tight endothelia, including the blood-brain barrier.
Volume-averaging theory for the study of the mechanics of collagen networks

Abstract A multiscale methodology has been developed for modeling mechanical behavior of collagen fiber networks. The methodology addresses scale separation between the macroscopic, tissue-level scale and the microscopic, fiber-level scale. A three-dimensional, Galerkin finite-element model has been employed for the macroscopic scale, while the tissue microstructure is represented as a three-dimensional fibrillar network. The model was applied to a rectangular slab in uniaxial extension. A heterogeneous microstructure resulted in a non-uniform deformation field, and Poisson’s ratio varied for networks with different alignments. The model was also specified and compared to published data relating microstructure to macroscopic behavior of collagen gels.
Evaluation and compensation of frequency dependent path loss over OFDM subcarriers in UAC

The underwater acoustic communication (UAC) channel presents severe time, space, and frequency selectivity that makes it difficult to achieve high data rate communication. In the recent years OFDM is used to resolve primarily frequency selectivity among these problems. Due to high absorbency of water over small frequency range path loss may be highly variable over OFDM subcarriers. This paper will evaluate this varying path loss and present algorithm to compensate such path loss using adaptive power control, adaptive modulation order, and adaptive BW. To the best knowledge of the authors, evaluation and compensation of varying path loss in the proposed method has not been presented before. Thus this research presents a valuable work in this domain.
The Political Economy of Imprisonment in Affluent Western Democracies, 1960—1990:

Research showing an association between business cycles and imprisonment is suspect on both theoretical and empirical grounds. Most research on this topic uses an impoverished notion of business cycles and pays no attention to differences in the institutional contexts of economic policymaking. This article reexamines this issue using data from 15 affluent capitalist democracies observed over 30 years, from 1960 to 1990. Pooled regression techniques are used to test hypotheses regarding the effects of business cycles, political power, and the structure of labor market institutions. Results from simple models show the expected associations between business cycles and imprisonment rates, but these associations disappear in models that include measures of politics and institutional structure. This suggests that the business cycle-imprisonment relationship is not causal but is instead an artifact of antecedent differences between neoliberal and corporatist societies.
Lipid extraction from wheat flour using supercritical fluid extraction

ABSTRACT Environmental concerns, the disposal cost of hazardous waste, and the time required for extraction in current methods encouraged us to develop an alternate method for analysis of wheat flour lipids. Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with carbon dioxide has provided that medium and the method is fully automatic. Crude fats or nonstarch free lipids (FL) were extracted from 4–5 g of wheat flour by an SFE system. To develop optimum conditions for SFE, various extraction pressures, temperatures, and modifier volumes were tried to provide a method that would produce an amount of lipids comparable to those extracted by the AACC Approved Soxhlet Method and the AOCS Official Butt Method using petroleum ether as solvent. Using several wheat flour samples, the best conditions were 12.0 vol% ethanol (10.8 mol%) at 7,500 psi and 80°C to extract the amount of FL similar to those by the AACC and AOCS methods. Using solid-phase extraction, lipids were separated into nonpolar lipid (NL), glycolipid (GL), and p...
Introduction of Kevin D. Lafferty as the Henry Baldwin Ward Medalist for 2009.

Members and fellow officers of the American Society of Parasitologists, it is my pleasure and honor to introduce Dr. Kevin Dale Lafferty, the winner of the 2009 Henry Baldwin Ward Medal. As his major professor, I have tracked Kevin's professional career since its inception. As his collaborator for 20 yr and co-leader of our research group for 17 yr (now as a leadership trinity with Ryan Hechinger), I have witnessed many of the events Kevin will present in his acceptance speech. So my observations here will be like the classic Japanese film Rashomon, directed by Kurosawa, in which the several characters give their somewhat different interpretations of the same incident. In the fog of memory, who knows what really happened? I will finish with much greater certainty, offering a brief overview of his contributions to the field of parasitology. Kevin was born in 1963 in Glendale, California, and raised near Pasadena, a committed southern California surfer dude. His early years are clouded in mystery, but we do know that he had a loving family and he was a wide receiver on his high school football team. He ventured off to university at UCSB as an aquatic biology major. UCSB is the only university in the United States with a surfing break on campus, and this played a big role in his choice of school. I gather that his plan was to do something within an easy drive of a SoCal beach. To a great extent, this still governs his academic geography. I met Kevin in November of 1987. He was a student in the
A power-harvesting pad-less mm-sized 24/60GHz passive radio with on-chip antennas

A wireless-powered pad-less single-chip dual-band mm-wave passive radio is implemented in 65nm CMOS for applications in sensor networks and wireless tagging. This fully self-sufficient system has no pads or external components (e.g. power supply), and the entire radio is a single 3.7mm × 1.2mm chip. To provide multi-access, and to mitigate interference, it uses two separate mm-wave bands for RX/TX and integrates both antennas to provide a measured communication range of 50cm. Compared to mm-sized passive radio solutions in the same category this system provides an order of magnitude range enhancement while improving input sensitivity by >14dB. Wideband pulse transmission enables real-time localization with time-of-flight. The entire system operates with standby harvested power below 1.5μW and aggregate rate >12Mbps.
Plasma antioxidant status after high-dose chemotherapy: a randomized trial of parenteral nutrition in bone marrow transplantation patients

Background Chemotherapy and radiation therapy result in increased free radical formation and depletion of tissue antioxidants. It is not known whether parenteral nutrition (PN) administered during bone marrow transplantation (BMT) supports systemic antioxidant status. Objective The aims of the study were to determine 1) whether high-dose chemotherapy decreases concentrations of major circulating antioxidants in patients undergoing BMT and 2) whether administration of standard PN maintains systemic antioxidant concentrations compared with PN containing micronutrients and minimal lipids alone. Design Twenty-four BMT patients were randomly assigned to receive either standard PN containing conventional amounts of dextrose, amino acids, micronutrients, and lipid (120 kJ/d) or a solution containing only micronutrients (identical to those in standard PN) and a small amount of lipid (12 kJ/d). Plasma antioxidant status was measured before conditioning therapy and serially at days 1, 3, 7, 10, and 14 after BMT. Results Plasma glutathione (GSH) and alpha- and gamma-tocopherol concentrations decreased and the GSH redox state became more oxidized after conditioning chemotherapy. Plasma cysteine concentrations were unchanged, whereas cystine concentrations increased. Plasma vitamin C and zinc concentrations and GSH peroxidase activity increased over time. Plasma alpha-tocopherol concentrations were lower in patients given standard PN. There were no differences in other plasma antioxidants between groups. Conclusions A significant decline in GSH-glutathione disulfide, cysteine-cystine, and vitamin E status occurs after chemotherapy and BMT. Standard PN does not improve antioxidant status compared with administration of micronutrients alone. Further evaluation of PN formulations to support patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy and BMT are needed.