cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Contemporary Artificial Intelligence

The notion of artificial intelligence (AI) often sparks thoughts of characters from science fiction, such as the Terminator and HAL 9000. While these two artificial entities do not exist, the algorithms of AI have been able to address many real issues, from performing medical diagnoses to navigating difficult terrain to monitoring possible failures of spacecrafts. Exploring these algorithms and applications, Contemporary Artificial Intelligence presents strong AI methods and algorithms for solving challenging problems involving systems that behave intelligently in specialized domains such as medical and software diagnostics, financial decision making, speech and text recognition, genetic analysis, and more. One of the first AI texts accessible to students, the book focuses on the most useful problem-solving strategies that have emerged from AI. In a student-friendly way, the authors cover logic-based methods; probability-based methods; emergent intelligence, including evolutionary computation and swarm intelligence; data-derived logical and probabilistic learning models; and natural language understanding. Through reading this book, students discover the importance of AI techniques in computer science.
Distribution Properties of Half-\ell -Sequence

Speed is essential in stream cipher design. In 2011, Lee and Park [5] proposed a software implementation for word-based FCSRs. The sequences generated by the FCSRs using Lee and Park’s implementation methods are half-\(\ell \)-sequences. In this paper, we investigate the imbalance properties of half-\(\ell \)-sequences. Bounds on the numbers of occurrences of one and two consecutive symbols are given. The experimental results show how tight our bound is.
Elevated microbial CO 2 production and fixation in the oxic/anoxic interface of estuarine water columns during seasonal anoxia

Abstract Gradients of dissolved oxygen concentrations in stratified estuarine water columns directly influence microbial composition and metabolic pathways, resulting in vertical and axial chemical gradients of redox-active species. Understanding such microbial responses to changing geochemical conditions and elucidating the diversity of microbially-mediated processes are needed to comprehensively identify ecosystem functions. We tested the hypothesis that microbial metabolic processes in the vicinity of the oxic/anoxic interface in Chesapeake Bay would be elevated due to the coincidence of oxidized and reduced compounds. We measured rates of microbial redox processes associated with carbon cycles and quantified geochemical constituents. The transition from oxic to anoxic to oxic conditions was correlated with the pattern of dissolved nitrogen species, with the most reducing conditions comprising the highest concentrations of dissolved chemical compounds. The vertical distribution of community respiration was measured with changes in dissolved inorganic carbon concentrations and was related to water column stratification, with the highest median and variability (1.2 ± 1.4 μmol L−1 h−1) in the most stratified conditions. Rates of CO2 fixation under dark conditions, a measure of chemoautotrophy, were elevated at the base of oxyclines and significantly correlated with a gradient of density and some reduced compounds. Although vertical interpolation must be made with caution due to high vertical variability, chemoautotrophic production averaged 0.5 mmol m−2 h−1 from May to August and added 5.8% to autochthonous organic carbon production in the mesohaline Chesapeake Bay. Overall, our results suggest that anaerobic community metabolism and chemoautotrophy in the oxic/anoxic interface exert a small impact on estuarine carbon cycles.
Adenylyl cyclase in human and bovine trabecular meshwork.

PURPOSE: To determine the basic characteristics and responses of adenylyl cyclase in trabecular tissues. Because the second messenger cyclic adenosine monophosphate can lower intraocular pressure by increasing outflow facility, it is of interest to know which signalling pathways stimulating adenylyl cyclase are involved. METHODS: Adenylyl cyclase activity of bovine and human trabecular meshwork membrane fractions and of whole tissue homogenates (bovine) to forskolin, manganese, fluoroaluminate, isoproterenol, prostaglandins (PGE1, PGE2, PGF2 alpha), and vasoactive intestinal peptide, were evaluated. RESULTS: In bovine trabecular meshwork particulate fractions, adenylyl cyclase was stimulated 3.3- and 2.6-fold over basal by 60 and 2 microM forskolin, respectively, 2.2-fold by fluoroaluminate, and 1.5-fold by PGE1 and PGE2, whereas no or a very week response was obtained with PGF2 alpha, isoproterenol, and vasoactive intestinal peptide. PGE1-induced stimulation was dose-dependent and G-protein-dependent, which provides evidence for EP receptor-mediated activation. Whole tissue homogenates of bovine trabecular meshwork did not differ from the particulate fractions. In human trabecular meshwork membrane fractions adenylyl cyclase stimulation was more pronounced, 12.4- and 5.5-fold by 60 and 2 microM forskolin, respectively, 8.2-fold by fluoroaluminate, and 3-fold by PGE1 and PGE2. PGF2 alpha had no effect. Significant stimulation was obtained with isoproterenol (2.8-fold) and with vasoactive intestinal peptide (1.8-fold). CONCLUSIONS: Human and bovine trabecular meshwork can be stimulated at all known activation levels of adenylyl cyclase. The human adenylyl cyclase system, especially receptor-coupled activity, is more sensitive than that of bovines. Beta-adrenoreceptor stimulation, PGE2, and vasoactive intestinal peptide may have a local physiologic function by activating adenylyl cyclase in human trabecular meshwork.
Knowledge, Experience and Work-Around Behaviors: Electronic Media in the Professional Audit Environment

Along with many other business entities, auditing firms have implemented a variety of electronic work systems to assist professionals in collecting and analyzing data, with the objective of improving operational efficiency and effectiveness. While prior research in other contexts finds that knowledge workers may reduce the impact of electronic work systems by working around them, we are unaware of studies of this issue in the professional context of auditing. We address this gap by examining the implementation of electronic audit workpapers (a complex system in which workpapers prepared by lower-level staff are reviewed by engagement team leaders), using a longitudinal two-stage design. First, prior to system implementation, we investigate how users' perceptions of the system and of their own computer and auditing knowledge (i.e., self-efficacy) affect their intention to use the system without reverting to paper as a medium of information storage and processing. We find that auditors' computer and task self-efficacy affect their perceptions of system ease of use and usefulness, which in turn influence their intention to use the system correctly. However, the specific paths vary by workpaper role (preparer versus reviewer). Second, using data collected following a period of system use, we report evidence of auditors' attempts to work around the system. In general, there is a negative association between behavioral intentions to use the system and actual work-around behaviors in practice. For reviewers, this relationship holds regardless of the level of experience using the system. For preparers, this relationship holds only after they have significant experience using the system.
Effect of ambient levels of ozone on monkeys

There is a considerable body of information concerning the experimental toxicity of ozone (16, 24), most of it relating to edemagenic concentrations above 1 ppm (2 mg/m3). Few descriptions have been provided of pulmonary lesions produced by concentrations of 0.8 ppm and below (3–6, 14, 15, 23), which represents the range of oxidant activity encountered in photochemical smog such as occurs in the California South Coast Basin (2). Our combined functional, biochemical and morphological studies of ozone toxicity are designed to provide information about the pathogenesis and nature of the effects of ozone at levels attained in smoggy environments.
What Do You Have in Virtue of Having a Constitutional Right? On the Place and Limits of the Proportionality Requirement

What do you have in virtue of having a constitutional right? In which way, if at all, are rights 'trumps', 'firewalls', or enjoy some kind of 'special priority' over competing considerations of policy? Even though there are interesting and significant differences between conceptions of rights in the liberal tradition, they generally share the idea that something protected as a matter of right may not be overridden by ordinary considerations of policy. Yet this claim of a special priority of rights sits uneasily with a prominent feature of global constitutional rights practice. As comparative constitutional scholars have pointed out, a pervasive feature of constitutional rights analysis all over the world - less pronounced in the U.S. and often obscured by all sorts of rights specific multi-prong tests - is some version of a proportionality test. Proportionality is widely used as a test by judiciaries to determine the limit of a constitutionally guaranteed right. The question pursued here is whether the idea of proportionality provides an adequate structure for the assessment of rights claims as a matter of political morality or whether the language of rights is more appropriately connected with a more categorical structure. I argue that the language of rights is not plausibly associated only with one particular structure. The proportionality structure is rightly a central feature of rights reasoning, but it is merely one of three distinct structural elements central to reasoning about rights as a matter of political morality. Other structural features of rights discourse include the idea of excluded reasons and deontological restrictions relating certain means-ends relationships. Furthermore there are institutional considerations that sometimes justify imposing additional requirements on the justification for an infringement of a right, requiring reasons of special strength. Rights reasoning is neither the deontological part of political morality, nor is it appropriately reduced to consequentialist balancing. Analyzing the structure of rights reasoning helps guard against a narrow understanding of rights that unconvincingly ties the very idea of rights to a particular moral structure. It also helps provide a clearer understanding of the structural complexity of liberal political morality. And it pushes us to reconsider what the function of rights discourse and rights adjudication might be.
Nihilating Nonground and the Temporal Sway of Becoming

more than nothing is nothing more than nothing that nothing is Elliot R. Wolfson Let me begin by posing the obvious question: can anything be said about nothing other than nothing? Would it not be ...
Analytical and experimental investigation of the notched strength of thick laminates with surface notches

Experimental and analytical investigations of the fracture of a graphite/epoxy laminate with part-through semielliptic surface notches have been conducted. Experimental values of notched strength were determined for a variety of notch aspect ratios and notch depths. Analytical predictions of laminate failure were obtained from three different models. The three models were equally successful in predicting the fracture of laminates with deep notches. The experimental results of laminates with shallow notches indicated more notch sensitivity (that is greater strength reduction) than did the analytical models.
Comparative Characterization of Rep Proteins from the Helper-Dependent Adeno-Associated Virus Type 2 and the Autonomous Goose Parvovirus

Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are nonautonomous human parvoviruses in that they are dependent on helper functions supplied by other viruses or on genotoxic stimuli for conditions permissive for replication. In the absence of helper, AAV type 2 enters latency by integration into a specific site on human chromosome 19. This feature of AAV, in combination with a lack of pathogenicity, makes AAV an attractive candidate vector for human gene therapy. Goose parvovirus (GPV) is both autonomous and pathogenic yet is highly homologous to AAV. To address the molecular bases for the different viral lifestyles, we compare the AAV and GPV nonstructural proteins, Rep78 and Rep1, respectively. We find that Rep78 and Rep1 possess several biochemical activities in common, including (i) high-affinity DNA binding for sequences that constitute the minimal DNA replication origin; (ii) nucleoside triphosphate-dependent DNA helicase activity; and (iii) origin-specific replication of double-stranded linear DNA. These experiments also establish a specific 38-bp DNA sequence as the minimal GPV DNA replication origin. It is noteworthy that although the proposed Rep binding sites of GPV and AAV are highly similar, Rep1 and Rep78 show a high degree of specificity for their respective origins, in both binding and replication assays. One significant difference was observed; with the minimal replication origin in adenovirus-uninfected extracts, Rep78-mediated replication exhibited low processivity, as previously reported. In contrast, Rep1 efficiently replicated full-length template. Overall, our studies indicate that GPV Rep1 and AAV Rep78 support a comparable mode of replication. Thus, a comparison of the two proteins provides a model system with which to determine the contribution of Rep in the regulation of dependence and autonomy at the level of DNA replication.
Occasional physical inactivity combined with a high-fat diet may be important in the development and maintenance of obesity in human subjects

Background A better understanding of the environmental factors that contribute to obesity is imperative if any therapeutic effect on the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in the United States is to be achieved. Objective This study examined the effect of the interaction of diet composition and physical inactivity on energy and fat balances. Design Thirty-five normal-weight and obese subjects were randomly assigned to either a 15-d isoenergetic high-carbohydrate (HC) or high-fat (HF) diet according to a crossover design. During the first 14 d, body weight and physical activity were maintained. On day 15, subjects spent 23 h in a whole-room indirect calorimeter and were fed a diet similar to that consumed during the previous 7 d while remaining physically inactive. Results Energy intakes required to maintain body weight stability during the first 14 d were similar between diets. Normal-weight and obese subjects consuming both diets had a positive energy balance on the sedentary day (day 15), suggesting that subjects were less active in the calorimeter. There was no significant effect of diet composition on total energy balance and total protein-energy balance on day 15; however, carbohydrate balance was more positive with the HC (2497.8 +/- 301.2 kJ) than with the HF (1159 +/- 301.2 kJ) diet (P = 0.0032). Most importantly, fat balance was more positive with the HF (1790.8 +/- 510.4 kJ) than with the HC (-62.8 +/- 510.4 kJ) diet (P = 0.0011). Conclusion Chronic consumption of a high-carbohydrate diet could provide some protection against body fat accumulation in persons with a pattern of physical activity that includes frequent sedentary days.
Institutionalised set up of Music Education in Carnatic Music

Music plays an important role in the lives of human beings. Music has been intensely associated with the daily activities of the people in Sri Lanka. We had the Guru Kula system of music in early centuries. The formal institutionalized set up of education in carnatic music in its present form took shape in the 20th century with the change in life styles and cultural patterns of the people with academies and universities playing a major role. This paper traces the background of the development of the institutionalized music education of carnatic music in the university system; identifies the various aspects of these systems, trends, merits and challenges. The study also deals with the role of computer in the institutionalized set up and music therapy. The three stages in the process of research methodology in music are discussed; the period of mastery of knowledge, the period of the mastery of techniques and finally a period of discovery or research, taking into account the practical side as music is a performance-oriented subject. Finally the paper discusses some findings and their implications - with special attention to their contribution to the social and cultural development of the country. Sri Lankan Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Vol.1(1) July 2009 Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Music plays an important role in the lives of human beings. Music has been intensely associated with the daily activities of the people in Sri Lanka. We had the Guru Kula system of music in early centuries. The formal institutionalized set up of education in carnatic music in its present form took shape in the 20 th century with the change in life styles and cultural patterns of the people with academies and universities playing a major role. This paper traces the background of the development of the institutionalized music education of carnatic music in the university system; identifies the various aspects of these systems, trends, merits and challenges. The study also deals with the role of computer in the institutionalized set up and music therapy. The three stages in the process of research methodology in music are discussed; the period of mastery of knowledge, the period of the mastery of techniques and finally a period of discovery or research, taking into account the practical side as music is a performance-oriented subject. Finally the paper discusses some findings and their implications - with special attention to their contribution to the social and cultural development of the country.
Bicarbonate Inhibits N-Nitrosation in Oxygenated Nitric Oxide Solutions *

Abstract N-Nitrosation in oxygenated nitric oxide (NO·) solutions was previously shown to be significantly inhibited by phosphate and chloride presumably by anion scavenging of the nitrosating agent nitrous anhydride, N2O3 (Lewis, R. S., Tannenbaum, S. R., and Deen, W. M. (1995) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 117, 3933-3939). Here, bicarbonate is shown to exhibit this same inhibitory effect. Rate constants for reaction of morpholine, phosphate, and bicarbonate with N2O3 relative to N2O3 hydrolysis at pH 8.9 were determined to be (3.7 ± 0.2) × 104 M−1, (4.0 ± 0.9) × 102 M−1, and (9.3 ± 1.5) × 102 M−1, respectively. The morpholine and phosphate rate constants at pH 8.9 are similar to those reported at pH 7.4 assuring that these results are relevant to physiological conditions. The rate constant for this previously unrecognized reaction of bicarbonate with N2O3 suggests the strong scavenging ability of bicarbonate; accordingly, bicarbonate may contribute to reducing deleterious effects of N2O3. This is biologically important due to substantial bicarbonate concentrations in vivo, approximately 30 mM. Bicarbonate was previously shown to alter peroxynitrite reactivity; however, carbon dioxide is the probable reactive species. Bicarbonate is therefore potentially important in determining the fate of two reactive species generated from nitric oxide, N2O3 and ONOO−, and may thus act as a regulator of NO·-induced toxicity.
Arc curvature in metric spaces

Concepts for curvature of arcs in metric geometry (specifically, Menger curvature κM, Haantjes-Finsler curvature κH, and transverse curvature κT introduced earlier by the author) are compared with respect to existence and numerical values. If a metric space satisfies a certain metric inequality shared in particular by Riemannian spaces, then the pointwise existence of κM on any arc implies that of κT and the two are equal. In a Minkowskian plane X with strictly convex unit sphere whose boundary U has a C2 polar representation ρ=ρ(θ), and with \(\bar \kappa _M\)and \(\bar \kappa _M\) the Menger and transverse curvatures relative to the underlying Euclidean metric, the following formulas are proved: At any point p on an arc at which \(\bar \kappa _M\) and \(\bar \kappa _M\) exist, $$\kappa _M = \bar \kappa _M \sqrt {\rho ^{2 + } 2\rho ^{'2 - } \rho \rho }$$ and $$\kappa _T = \bar \kappa _T \frac{{\sigma _1^{3/2} (T_p )}}{{\sigma _2 (T_p ,T_p^ \bot )}},$$ where Tpis the tangent at p, T⊥pthat line to which Tpis metrically perpendicular, and σ1 and σ2 are certain real-valued functions defined on lines of X. The result of this is that if κ* is the classical curvature of Up≡U+p at Up∩ Tp, $$\frac{{\kappa _M^2 }}{{\kappa _T^2 }} = \frac{{\kappa ^ * \sigma _1^{3/2} (T_p^ \bot )}}{{\sigma _2 \left( {T_p ,T_p^ \bot } \right)}},$$ from which it follows that the values of κM and κT are not equal for metric spaces in general even when both exist.
m-Recognizability of sets closed under certain affine functions

Abstract Let 〈A:S〉 be the A-closure of a set S of nonnegative integers where A is a finite set of affine functions each one defined on the integers. Suppose every element of A has the form α(x)=mex+a defined for all x with e−1, a, m−2 fixed nonnegative integers where only e and a depend on α. That is, every element of A has a multiplier which is a power of one and the same number m. A set S of positive integers is said to be an m-recognizable set just when the m-ary strings representing elements of S are recognized by some finite automaton. Also, suppose S is an m-recognizable set. Then 〈A:S〉 is also m-recognizable. Roughly speaking, this means that if S has a certain kind of simple description in terms of the base-m strings which represent elements of S, then a similar description can be found for the A-closure of S.
Inspiratory pressure threshold training for glottal airway limitation in laryngeal papilloma.

Summary A single-subject design was used to determine if inspiratory pressure threshold training increases inspiratory muscle strength and reduces the sensation of dyspnea during exercise and speech. The subject was a 23-year-old female with congenital juvenile papilloma which has been in remission for 10 years. A 4-week inspiratory muscle training program was implemented using an inspiratory pressure threshold trainer. The pressure threshold of the trainer was set by the experimenter. The pressure threshold setting of the trainer was based on a percentage of the subject's maximum inspiratory pressure measured prior to training. The average range of the pressure threshold was 40 to 70 cmH 2 O. In order for inspiratory air to flow, the subject generated inspiratory pressure, independent of airflow rate. Maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) was the dependent variable used as the index of inspiratory muscle strength. Exercise dyspnea was a dependent variable rated by the subject during a progressive treadmill test. Dyspnea associated with speech was rated following production of a comfortable and loud speech task. MIP increased by 57% following the training program with a 2-scale point reduction in the perception of dyspnea during exercise. Dyspnea during loud speech decreased from moderate to mild. The changes in dyspnea, both during exercise and speech, are directly related to inspiratory muscle strengthening. The results suggest that inspiratory muscle training may improve respiratory related function in patients with restrictive upper airway disorders.
Spontaneous repopulation of β-catenin null livers with β-catenin-positive hepatocytes after chronic murine liver injury.

Prolonged exposure of mice to diet containing 0.1% 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC) results in hepatobiliary injury, atypical ductular proliferation, oval cell appearance, and limited fibrosis. Previously, we reported that short-term ingestion of DDC diet by hepatocyte-specific β-catenin conditional knockout (KO) mice led to fewer A6-positive oval cells than wildtype (WT) littermates. To examine the role of β-catenin in chronic hepatic injury and repair, we exposed WT and KO mice to DDC for 80 and 150 days. Paradoxically, long-term DDC exposure led to significantly more A6-positive cells, indicating greater atypical ductular proliferation in KO, which coincided with increased fibrosis and cholestasis. Surprisingly, at 80 and 150 days in KO we observed a significant amelioration of hepatocyte injury. This coincided with extensive repopulation of β-catenin null livers with β-catenin-positive hepatocytes at 150 days, which was preceded by appearance of β-catenin-positive hepatocyte clusters at 80 days and a few β-catenin-positive hepatocytes at earlier times. Intriguingly, occasional β-catenin-positive hepatocytes that were negative for progenitor markers were also observed at baseline in the KO livers, suggesting spontaneous escape from cre-mediated recombination. These cells with hepatocyte morphology expressed mature hepatocyte markers but lacked markers of hepatic progenitors. The gradual repopulation of KO livers with β-catenin-positive hepatocytes occurred only following DDC injury and coincided with a progressive loss of hepatic cre-recombinase expression. A few β-catenin-positive cholangiocytes were observed albeit only after long-term DDC exposure and trailed the appearance of β-catenin-positive hepatocytes. Conclusion: In a chronic liver injury model, β-catenin-positive hepatocytes exhibit growth and survival advantages and repopulate KO livers, eventually limiting hepatic injury and dysfunction despite increased fibrosis and intrahepatic cholestasis. (HEPATOLOGY 2011;)
New rate constants for D + H2 and H + D2 between ∼1150 and 2100 K

The shock tube technique with D- and H-atom atomic resonance absorption spectrometric (ARAS) detection has been used to measure rate constants for two isotopic modifications of the most fundamental chemical reaction, H + H{sub 2} {yields} H{sub 2} + H: D + H{sub 2} {yields} HD + H (1) and H + D{sub 2} {yields} HD + D (2). Hydrogen atoms were produced from the thermal decomposition of either C{sub 2}D{sub 5}I or C{sub 2}H{sub 5}I. Ethyl iodide decomposition above {approx}1150 K is fast, and the product ethyl radicals decompose even faster, giving ethylene and hydrogen atoms. This clean source of atoms then allows for first-order analysis of both reactant and product hydrogen atoms for determining rate constants. The rate constant results can be described by the Arrhenius expressions k{sub 1} = 3.17 x 10{sup -10} exp(-5207K/T) cm{sup 3} molecule{sup -1} s{sup -1}, over the temperature range 1166-2112 K, and k{sub 2} = 2.67 x 10{sup -10} exp(-5945K/T) cm{sup 3} molecule{sup -1} s{sup -1}, over the temperature range 1132-2082 K. These new results are compared to earlier results and supply additional values for evaluating the rate behavior for both reactions over the very large temperature range {approx}200-2200 K. These evaluationsmore » are then compared to recent quantum mechanical scattering calculations of the thermal rate behavior that are based on a new and quite accurate potential energy surface (i.e., globally accurate to {approx}0.01 kcal mol{sup -1}). Within experimental error, there is now complete convergence between the experimental evaluation and the new theory, bringing to completion a 75-year effort in chemical kinetics and dynamics. This is the first completely solved problem in chemical kinetics.« less
Serial unblocked designs balanced for correlation between neighbours

It is shown now one many choose a balanced unblocked serial (BUS) design “at random” (equiprobably). The method makes use of a theorem for enumerating unicursal routes in an oriented linear graph.
Lacunar pressures in Myriophyllum heterophyllum: manometric measurement and diurnal gas dynamics in field populations

Abstract A simple, inexpensive manometer was developed to measure lacunar pressures in submersed vascular plants. Manometers consisted of a sealed micropipet connected to a hypodermic needle and partially filled with manometer fluid. The accuracy and sensitivity of the manometer was determined by the amount of fluid and manometers were reliable over the range of 80 to 120 kPa. Diurnal changes in lacunar gas pressure and composition were examined in intact plants of Myriophyllum heterophyllum Michx. exposed to different current velocities in the field. Lacunar pressures were about 1 kPa below atmospheric in the morning, and by early afternoon reached maximum levels of 3 kPa and 5 kPa above atmospheric at a high and low velocity site, respectively. Lacunar O 2 concentrations increased as pressures increased and ranged from 17 to 23% and 15 to 34% at these sites. Lacunar O 2 concentrations at the low velocity site were higher at the shoot apex than toward the base and cutting of these stems lowered the O 2 concentration in basal segments, indicating that O 2 distribution may be influenced by photosynthetic differences and O 2 transport. The behavior of lacunar gases was examined by comparing measured gas pressures with pressures predicted based on measured lacunar O 2 concentrations. Gas pressures measured at the high velocity site were slightly higher than predicted, but in general followed the ideal gas law. Measured gas pressures at the low velocity site, however, became progressively lower than predicted throughout the afternoon. High photon irradiance and thick boundary layers at this site apparently enhanced lacunar O 2 accumulation, promoted the release of gas bubbles from the lacunar atmosphere, and led to non-equilibrium lacunar N 2 content and to lacunar O 2 enrichment without increased lacunar pressure. Lacunar pressures measured in this field study were lower than those reported for laboratory studies. Factors which can influence lacunar pressurization and lacunar function are discussed.
From High School to College: The Transition Experiences of Black and White Students

Based on a quantitative study of students at a midsize public university in the Southeast and informed by Astin’s input-environment-outcome model, this article explores how the transition experienc...
Aging, stress, and affective disorders.

The interaction between aging, stress, and affective disorders has interested researchers for many years. Many stressful events occur as a part of aging. The majority of elderly people seem to tolerate this fairly well, but constant uncontrollable stress can lead to changes in the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. There are also age-related changes in the sensitivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which have little clinical effect on healthy subjects, but may be more significant in the presence of an affective disorder. Stress is a more important predictor of depression in the elderly than are genetic factors. Attempts to minimize stress and the stress response in the elderly may improve treatments of affective disorders in this population.
Health education and promotion for STD prevention: lessons for the next millennium.

OBJECTIVE: To review the evolution of health promotion for STD prevention. MAIN OBSERVATIONS: Information and education programmes were provided at the beginning of the 20th century to warn the public about the dangers of venereal infection and to support the medical model of case identification and case management under the care of qualified physicians. The public health approach offered advice about chemical, chemotherapeutic, and barrier prophylaxis, but avoided the issue of social prophylaxis. With the failure of antimicrobial agents to eradicate syphilis in the 1960s, rapid increases of viral sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and resistant strains of gonorrhoea in the 1970s, and the discovery of AIDS in the 1980s, alternatives to the traditional public health approach were sought and supported with a modest increase of resources. Three major innovations have been introduced to STD prevention as a result: social marketing, community involvement, and behaviour change programmes based on social and psychological concepts and theoretical models. CONCLUSIONS: Health promotion for STD prevention in the future will be characterised by careful assessments of the social and behavioural determinants of sexual risk taking, development and implementation of targeted interventions designed to reduce risk taking, and evaluation of social and behavioural interventions for improvements in STD prevention.
A pre- post-evaluation of implementing an inpatient warfarin monitoring and education program

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a new anticoagulation management program resulted in better monitoring of warfarin, increased warfarin patient education prior to discharge, and fewer bleeding complications associated with warfarin.Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients who were inpatients and received warfarin from April 1, 2008 to July 31, 2008 (control group) and from April 1, 2009 to July 31, 2009 (after implementation of the new anticoagulation program). The frequency of warfarin-related laboratory orders that included international normalized ratios (INRs), complete blood counts (CBCs), and documented patient education by pharmacy, nursing, and dietary services were determined before and after program implementation. Also, data was collected to determine frequencies of bleeding complications associated with warfarin.Results: There were 112 patients in the pre- and 115 patients in the post-program group. After implementation of the inpatient warfarin management program, obtaining baseline INRs increased from 74% to 90% (p=0.001). Orders for baseline CBCs increased from 85% to 94% (p=0.026). Obtaining CBCs every 3 days increased from 54% to 74%, (p<0.001). However, there was no significant change in orders for daily INRs (p=0.055). Education by nursing increased from 54% to 80%, (p<0.001), by pharmacy increased from 8% to 76%, (p<0.001), and by dietary increased from 11% to 79%, (p<0.001). Documentation by all three disciplines in each patient increased from 3.6% to 59%, (p<0.001). Significantly fewer patients received vitamin K and/ or fresh frozen plasma for supratherapeutic INRs with bleeding complications after the program was initiated compared to baseline (p=0.009).Conclusion: The implementation of an inpatient warfarin management program led to better monitoring of patients receiving warfarin, and increased patient education. However, a larger and longer assessment is necessary to determine if these changes are maintained and how these changes affect long-term clinical outcomes. Keywords: Warfarin. Inpatients. Pharmacy Service, Hospital. United States.
The B7 and CD28 receptor families

Abstract Current evidence suggests that T-cell receptor (TCR) recognition of antigen bound to the major histocompatibility complex (Ag-MHC) is insufficient to lead to T-cell proliferation or effector function. For a helper T cell to produce sufficient interleukin 2 (IL-2) to allow autocrine-driven clonal expansion, there is a requirement for so-called ‘co-stimulatory' or ‘accessory' signals in addition to TCR ligation by Ag-MHC. The interaction of the CD28 receptor on T cells with B7 on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) supplies one such co-stimulatory signal. However, the recent discovery that CD28 and B7 are each members of larger gene families suggests that the regulation of co-stimulation is more complex than previously imagined. Here, Carl June and colleagues highlight recent advances in the understanding of the CD28 and B7 receptor families.
Destructive allograft fungal arteritis following simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation

Fungal arteritis of the Y graft used to revascularize the whole pancreas graft developed in 2 recipients of simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant that were performed within 36 hr of each other. The vascular infection became manifest 6-7 days following transplantation. In both patients, the vasculitis culminated in an arterial rupture that required immediate operative intervention. This compromise of the Y grafts contributed to loss of both pancreatic grafts and necessitated vascular reconstruction to reperfuse the lower extremity. To date, both patients continue to experience normal kidney transplant function.
The recent historiography of genetics. [essay review].

It is evident how much Olby and Provine have contributed to a better understanding of the emergence of genetics. It is equally evident, I believe, how many obscure issues still remain to be elucidated. Indeed, their volumes have raised as many new questions as they have answered old ones. In particular, the role of constructive as well as retarding contemporary concepts in the development of new generalizations still requires far more analysis. The somewhat independent trends of various national schools and the influence of neighboring fields (e.g. statistics, animal husbandry, systematics) are other areas deserving further study. All these influences contributed, one way or another, to the growth and maturation of genetics.37
Nuclear interface energy at finite temperatures

Abstract The thermodynamic properties at finite temperatures of the plane interface between two phases of nuclear matter in equilibrium are examined theoretically, and explored numerically. The microscopic hamiltonian, the Skyrme I′ interaction, is used in the Thomas-Fermi approximation to obtain the finite-temperature extensions of earlier zero-temperature results which used the Hartree-Fock and Thomas-Fermi methods. Approximate analytic fits are given to the χ i (proton fraction on the dense-matter side) dependence of the critical temperature, and to the T and χ i dependences of the surface thermodynamic potentials, the density of surface neutrons, the surface entropy and the neutron and proton chemical potentials at phase equilibrium. These fits are an ingredient in a compressible liquid-drop nuclear model, the basis of an equation of state for hot, dense matter needed in certain astrophysical applications. The liquid-drop model is used here to construct an isolated, low- T nucleus, whose properties are compared with the original zero- T Hartree-Fock calculations which lead to the Skyrme I interaction, and with other mass formulae. The low-temperature expansion of the surface energy is compared with that obtained in other calculations. The nuclear level density at the Fermi surface, related to the low- T expansion of the entropy of the whole nucleus, is also discussed.
Neighborhood Racial Isolation, Disorder and Obesity

Recent research suggests that racial residential segregation may be detrimental to health. This study investigates the influence of neighborhood racial isolation on obesity and considers the role of neighborhood disorder as a mediator in this relationship. For the city of Philadelphia, we find that residence in a neighborhood with high black racial isolation is associated with a higher body mass index and higher odds of obesity among women, but not men, highlighting important sex differences in the influence of neighborhood structure on health. Furthermore, the influence of high racial isolation on women's weight status is mediated, in part, by the physically disordered nature of such neighborhoods. Disorder of a more social nature (as measured by incident crime) is not associated with weight status.
Management of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in the era of B-cell receptor signal transduction inhibitors

The treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), an indolent B-cell lymphoma is in the midst of a transformation. There are a large number of promising new therapeutic agents and cellular therapies being studied which exhibit remarkable activity, favorable toxicity profiles, convenient administration schedules, and treatment options are rapidly expanding. The recent advances in the management of CLL exemplify the value of translational medicine. This review highlights key aspects of B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling in relation to novel inhibitors of the BCR signaling pathway, currently at various stages of preclinical and clinical development.
Surface characterization of two amoebae relative to cell adhesion.

Abstract This is a comparative study of the surfaces of two Acanthamoeba castellanii strains, one of which clumps during exponential growth. Proteins from the isolated surface membranes of the strains were compared by disc electrophoresis. The number and similarity of the proteins between the two strains depended on the method of solubilization and electrophoresis. Periodic acid Schiff staining indicated that most of the proteins were glycoproteins. The molecular weights of the proteins ranged between 50 000–70 000 with those of the clumping strain being slightly larger. The non-clumping strain's surface membrane exhibited glucosyltransferase activity while the clumping strain did not. Galactosyltransferase activity was present in surface membranes of both strains but the specific activity of the clumping strain was greater. The non-clumping strain agglutinated in the presence of concanavalin A, soybean agglutinin and wheat germ agglutinin while the clumping strain was affected by soybean agglutinin only. Whole cell electrophoresis and enzymic treatments further indicated differences in the surfaces of the two strains. The data is discussed with reference to differences between the two amoebae strains and their possible role in cell-cell adhesion.
Sticky Platelet Syndrome

The sticky platelet syndrome (SPS) is an autosomal dominant platelet disorder associated with arterial and venous thromboembolic events. It is characterized by hyperaggregability of platelets in platelet-rich plasma with adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and epinephrine (type I), epinephrine alone (type II), or ADP alone (type III). Clinically, patients may present with angina pectoris, acute myocardial infarction (MI), transient cerebral ischemic attacks, stroke, retinal thrombosis, peripheral arterial thrombosis, and venous thrombosis, frequently recurrent under oral anticoagulant therapy. Clinical symptoms, especially arterial, often present following emotional stress. Combinations of SPS with other congenital thrombophilic defects have been described. Low-dose aspirin treatment (80 to 100 mg) ameliorates the clinical symptoms and normalizes hyperaggregability. The precise etiology of this defect is at present not known, but receptors on the platelet surface may be involved. Normal levels of platelet factor 4 (PF4) and beta-thromboglobulin in plasma suggest that the platelets are not activated at all times; they appear to become hyperactive upon ADP or adrenaline release. In vivo clumping could temporarily or permanently occlude a vessel, leading to the described clinical manifestations. The syndrome appears to be prominent especially in patients with unexplained arterial vascular occlusions.
Evaluating Cell/B.E software cache for ClustalW

This paper evaluates the performance of the bioin-formatics application ClustalW developed on Cell Broadband Engine(TM) (Cell/B.E.) using a software data cache for SPEs, instead of explicit DMA transfers. The software cache of the SPEs, once it has been configured, provides the capability to access main memory with data-transfer functions that override the need for DMA commands. ClustalW exhibits high spatial locality but little temporal locality. We compare performance of ClustalW with a previous version that uses explicit DMA transfers as a means of communication with the system memory, and provide analysis and results of our comparison.
Damned to Heaven: The Tragedy of Faust Revisited

By reading Faust through the lens of Goethe's own scientific principles, a new reading of the whole arises, a reading that revisits the historical debates about the conclusion of the play, whether about its morality, happy ending, or portrayal of technology. According to the naturalistic ethic that emerges within the text, the ending is tragic in that Faust ascends into a sphere characterized by stasis and non-productivity. The play thus is modern in its rejection of religious morality, while anti-modern in its critique of the scientist hero.
Solving an advection‐diffusion problem on the connection machine

An algorithm is presented that solves a linear advection-diffusion problem using a least-squares formulation and a conjugate gradient method to solve the corresponding minimization problem. An implementation in CM-Fortran on a Thinking Machines CM-2 is compared with a serial implementation on an IBM RS6000. The maximum speed-up obtained is a factor of 70. For fine grids, the CPU time scales almost ideally when the number of processors is increased from 4096 to 8192.
Case–Control Study of a Multistate Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy Outbreak

Background A large multistate outbreak of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) occurred in May 2011 among horses that participated in a competitive event. Objective To identify EHM risk factors among horses with a common exposure venue. Animals A total of 123 horses: 19 horses with EHM, 14 equine herpesvirus-1 cases with no reported neurologic signs, and 90 control horses. Methods EHM case survey data were compared with data from EHV-1 cases with no neurologic signs and healthy controls using univariable and multivariable methods. Results Significant factors associated with higher risk for EHM compared with EHV-1 cases with no neurologic signs were (1) greater number of biosecurity risks at the event, (2) female sex, (3) increasing number of classes competed in at the event, and (4) an interaction between sex and number of classes competed in. In the EHM versus controls comparison, in addition to sex and biosecurity risks, factors associated with higher EHM risk included EHV-1 vaccination in the 5 weeks before the event and increasing number of events attended in April 2011; zinc dietary supplementation was associated with decreased risk. An interaction between sex and the number of events attended in April 2011 also was significant. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Findings from this study suggest that dietary zinc supplementation may be associated with decreased risk of EHM. Several factors were associated with increased risk of EHM. Additional investigations of factors associated with risk of EHM are warranted to evaluate the importance of these factors in this complex disease of horses.
Control of glycolysis and lipogenesis in the liver by glucagon at the phosphofructokinase-fructose 1,6-diphosphatase site.

Abstract We have examined the effects of glucagon on lipogenesis from fasted-refed rats incubated under two conditions, either without added substrate or with 10 m ml -lactate. Net glycolysis (from glycogen) occurs in the absence of glucagon. This glycolysis is inhibited by glucagon under conditions of no added lactate, and reversed by glucagon to a net gluconeogenesis in the presence of 10 m m lactate. Glucagon markedly inhibits fatty acid synthesis (estimated by incorporation of tritium from THO) in hepatocytes incubated without added substrate; but, in the presence of 10 m ml -lactate, the inhibition of fatty acid synthesis is only about 10%. The inhibition of lipogenesis from endogenous glycogen is primarily caused by inhibition of glycolysis. Glucagon markedly lowers the C -4,5,6 C -1,2,3 ratio in glucose produced from [1- 14 C]galactose, indicating a strong inhibition of phosphofructokinase flux. The C -1,2,3 C -4,5,6 ratio in glucose from [1- 14 C]glycerol is only slightly less than 1, indicating an active fructose diphosphatase flux even under conditions of active net glycolysis. Glucagon increases this ratio only slightly, suggesting that an acute increase of fructose diphosphatase activity by glucagon may occur, but is of much less importance than the decrease of phosphofructokinase.