cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nitrous oxide emissions from agricultural soils

This paper addresses three topics related to N2O emissions from agricultural soils. First, an assessment of the current knowledge of N2O emissions from agricultural soils and the role of agricultural systems in the global N2O are discussed. Secondly, a critique on the methodology presented in the OECD/OCDE (1991) program on national inventories of N2O is presented. Finally, technical options for controlling N2O emissions from agricultural fields are discussed.
Mono-(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate Rapidly Alters both Sertoli Cell Vimentin Filaments and Germ Cell Apoptosis in Young Rat Testes

Mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) is a widely studied Sertoli cell toxicant. Here we describe alterations in Sertoli cell vimentin filament distribution and the incidence of testicular germ cell apoptosis in young (28-day-old) Fischer rats that were treated with MEHP (2 g/kg, po) and killed 0, 3, 6, or 12 hr after exposure. A collapse in vimentin filaments was observed 3 hr after MEHP exposure without accompanying changes in the pattern of Sertoli cell tubulin or actin. A progressive increase in the perinuclear condensation of the vimentin filaments was observed from 6 to 12 hr after exposure. To evaluate the consequences of these Sertoli cell changes on germ cells, the role of apoptosis in MEHP-induced testicular toxicity was examined. DNA isolated from testis of rats 6 and 12 hr after MEHP exposure showed a marked increase in low-molecular-weight DNA resulting from internucleosomal cleavage. In addition, DNA fragmentation visualized in frozen testis cross sections by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated digoxigenin-dUTP nick end label (TUNEL) staining demonstrated a progressive increase in germ cell apoptosis from 6 to 12 hr after MEHP exposure. However, 3 hr after MEHP exposure, the incidence of TUNEL-positive germ cells was significantly decreased compared to that seen in controls. Taken together, the early collapse in Sertoli cell vimentin filaments and the concurrent decrease in germ cell apoptosis suggests that MEHP engenders Sertoli cell dysfunction resulting in the disruption of the physiological mechanism of germ cell apoptosis.
Determination of relative protein degradation activity at different life stages in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Abstract Rainbow trout were reared from 5 g to ~ 400 g on a diet formulated to supply the required protein from either fishmeal or plant proteins. The fish were sampled at every weight doubling and liver and muscle samples were obtained. From these tissue samples RNA and protein were isolated and analyzed for the expression of a number of muscle regulatory and protein degradation genes and enzymatic activity for proteins involved in the caspase, calpain, and ubiquitin-proteasome pathways for protein proteolysis. Only MyoD2 showed significant differences in expression between the two diets, while no significant changes over the course of the experiment were determined for MyoD2 or the other muscle factors. For the degradation genes significant changes in expression were determined for calpain1 and calpastatin. Calpastatin also showed a significant increase in expression over the course of the experiment in the muscle of fish fed a fishmeal diet and significant decrease in expression in the liver of fish fed the fishmeal based diet. Differences in proteasome enzyme activity were found between diets in the liver and muscle of fish and for caspase-3 activity in muscle. Significant changes in activity over the course of the experiment were noted for proteasome and calpain activity in the liver and muscle. These findings suggest that diets replacing fishmeal with plant material can have some effects on protein turnover in muscle and that some degradation pathways are differentially regulated during the growth of rainbow trout.
A rapid heuristic algorithm for finding minimum evolution trees.

The minimum sum of branch lengths (S), or the minimum evolution (ME) principle, has been shown to be a good optimization criterion in phylogenetic inference. Unfortunately, the number of topologies to be analyzed is computationally prohibitive when a large number of taxa are involved. Therefore, simplified, heuristic methods, such as the neighbor-joining (NJ) method, are usually employed instead. The NJ method analyzes only a small number of trees (compared with the size of the entire search space); so, the tree obtained may not be the ME tree (for which the S value is minimum over the entire search space). Different compromises between very restrictive and exhaustive search spaces have been proposed recently. In particular, the "stepwise algorithm" (SA) utilizes what is known in computer science as the "beam search," whereas the NJ method employs a "greedy search." SA is virtually guaranteed to find the ME trees while being much faster than exhaustive search algorithms. In this study we propose an even faster method for finding the ME tree. The new algorithm adjusts its search exhaustiveness (from greedy to complete) according to the statistical reliability of the tree node being reconstructed. It is also virtually guaranteed to find the ME tree. The performances and computational efficiencies of ME, SA, NJ, and our new method were compared in extensive simulation studies. The new algorithm was found to perform practically as well as the SA (and, therefore, ME) methods and slightly better than the NJ method. For searching for the globally optimal ME tree, the new algorithm is significantly faster than existing ones, thus making it relatively practical for obtaining all trees with an S value equal to or smaller than that of the NJ tree, even when a large number of taxa is involved.
Role of endothelium in endothelin-evoked contractions in the rat aorta

We designed experiments to determine the role of endothelium-derived contracting factor or factors in the response to endothelin-1 and endothelin-3 in the aorta of normotensive and hypertensive rats. Rings of thoracic aortas, with and without endothelium, from normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats were suspended in organ chambers for recording of isometric tension in the presence of nitro-L-arginine, an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. The removal of endothelium decreased the contractions evoked by both endothelins in the aorta of spontaneously hypertensive but not of normotensive rats. Indomethacin (inhibitor of cyclooxygenase), dazoxiben (inhibitor of thromboxane synthase), and SQ-29,548 (antagonist of thromboxane A2 receptors) reduced, in aortic rings of spontaneously hypertensive rats, the contractions to endothelins in rings with but not in those without endothelium, whereas their effect was not endothelium-dependent in tissues of normotensive rats. BQ-123, a selective endothelin-A receptor antagonist, shifted the concentration-response curve to endothelin-1 to the right in a concentration-dependent manner and abolished the endothelium-dependent component of the contractions evoked by the peptide. The presence of the endothelium increased the basal and endothelin-stimulated release of thromboxane B2, the stable metabolite of thromboxane A2, in aortas of spontaneously hypertensive rats but not in those of normotensive rats. These data suggest that endothelium-derived thromboxane A2 contributes to contractions evoked by endothelin-1 and endothelin-3 in the aorta of the spontaneously hypertensive rat but not in that of the normotensive rat. Both the receptors on the endothelial cells (mediating the release of thromboxane A2) and those on vascular smooth muscle belong to the endothelin-A subtype.
LITA 2014 Forum: Conference Report

Since it was first held in 1998, the LITA (Library and Information Technology Association) Forum has earned the reputation for being an excellent place for newcomers and seasoned professionals alik...
Grants Peer Review in Theory and Practice

Grants peer review is a family of ex ante methods used by federal agencies to select research proposalsforfunding. This article draws on Chubin and Hackett's 1990 book, Peerless Science: Peer Revie...
Multilayer Structures For X-Ray Laser Cavities

Recent demonstrations of the generation of amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) at soft x-ray wavelengths have spurred interest in normal incidence multilayer structures for use as x-ray laser (XRL) cavity mirrors. Calculations indicate that cavity mirrors can provide significant enhancement of XRL output, and drive the oscillations to the saturation limit. Novel ideas for cavity output coupling may expand the versatility of XRL devices, while encouraging the marriage of lithographic and multilayer technologies to the general benefit of x-ray optics. Preliminary tests of a double pass cavity have already been conducted. These tests point out the importance of detailed cavity design issues, such as precision mirror alignment, mirror damage dynamics, and detailed mirror calibration to the future success of this field.
Which Box(es) Do I Check? Investigating College Students’ Meanings Behind Racial Identification

AbstractHow students racially identify continues to be critical for tracking and monitoring disparities in a number of outcomes. Little is known, however, about the meanings of race students enact when encountering the ubiquitous “race questions” used to operationalize these groups. This mixedmethods study explored college students’ (N = 637) underlying meanings behind racial identification, finding six distinct patterns of racial meanings that provide insight into the fluidity of racial demographics and implications for practice.
A MURINE ANTIBODY TO SHIGELLA DYSENTERIAE TYPE 1 EMPLOYS V-GENES THAT CONTAIN A REARRANGED CODON FOR THE LAMBDA LIGHT CHAIN

The cDNA coding for a hybridoma anti Shigella dysenteriae type 1 antibody (3707 E9) has been cloned, and sequenced. Binding patterns with fragments of the bacterial polysaccharide antigen had already been studied in detail. The VH sequence utilizes the VH441 gene, first identified amongst beta-(1,6)galactan-binding antibodies, while the VL is closely related to the V lambda 1 gene. We found that the VL3707 E9 gene employed a VL-J combinatorial joining leading to a rare Trp-->Leu substitution at position L96.
Pushing the limits: creative web use in libraries related to instruction

Abstract This article explores creative ways libraries are using the web for instruction and to support faculty use of the web for teaching. A review of the literature, examination of web pages at 100 academic institutions, and correspondence with over 50 library user instruction coordinators were conducted as part of the author's sabbatical project. A variety of web-based instruction tools are highlighted. Important issues related to web-based instruction including identifying user needs, planning, faculty/librarian collaboration, as well as marketing and evaluation of web-related instruction are included in the discussion.
Follow-up of abnormal pap smears in a hospital based adolescent clinic

Background An increasing number of adolescents have abnormal Pap smears, and little is know about factors which influence compliance with recommendations for repeat Pap smears and referrals for colposcopy. Methods Data was collected on all patients who were receiving health care in a hospital based comprehensive adolescent clinic and who had an abnormal Pap smear between July 1, 1994 and June 30, 1995. Demographic and clinical data included age, race, ethnicity, insurance status, prior abnormal Pap smears and colposcopy (between 1992 and July 1. 1994), Pap smears at follow-up, results of colposcopy, number of scheduled and kept appointments, and number of reminders (telephone calls, letters). Follow-up data was then collected through December 1, 1995. Data was analyzed using SPSS statistical software. Results 107 adolescents (mean age 18.2 ± 2.4 Years; range 11–23 years) had an abnormal Pap during the year. The adolescents were of mixed ethnicity and payor status: 29% were white, 61% black, 5% other, 6% unknown; 14% were Hispanic. 27% had Medicaid, 37% private insurance, 16% self-pay, 8% free care, 6% other, 6% missing data. The results of the index Pap smear was: 90 (84%) Atypia, 17 (16%) SIL LG. Of the 64 (60%) who had a second Pap smear, 32 (50%) were normal, 18 (28%) Atypia and 12(22) SIL LG. Of the initial 108 patients, the index Pap was the first abnormal Pap for 85 (79%) of the patients; 22 had had a previous abnormal Pap (15 atypias, 5 SIL LG, 2 SIL HG) and 11 had had a previous colposcopy. 80 patients had no prior colposcopy and atypia on the index Pap smear. Of these, 50 had a second Pap smear. The second Pap revealed 27 (54%) normal, 13 (26%) atypia, and 10 (20%) SIL LG. In all 52 (49%) patients were referred to the hospital's colposcopy clinic but only 28 actually had colposcopy despite outreach. Among those with no prior colposcopy and atypia on the index Pap, 32 patients were ultimately referred and only 17 kept the appointment. Following colposcopy patients kept an average of 2.1 visits and missed 1.1 visits. For both follow-up for repeat Pap smears and colposcopy, there are no difference by race, insurance status, age, Pap smear result, prior referral for colposcopy, or number of letters. The only significant factor for keeping a referral to colposcopy clinic was a visit to the adolescent clinic after notification of the abnormal Pap result and prior to the colposcopy appointment (77% v 38%)(p = .006). Conclusions Adolescents with abnormal Pap smears have high rates of failing to keep appointments for follow-up Pap smears and colposcopy. Because demographics factors did not define a group of adolescents at particular risk of noncompliance, interventions that target all adolescents with abnormal Paps need to be designed and tested. A visit to an Adolescent Program to explain the abnormal Pap smear and the reason for referral aided compliance. To improve surveillance more information needs to be gathered from the adolescents’ perspectives on reasons that follow-up appointments are not kept.
BINDING OF ANIONIC PHOSPHOLIPIDS TO RETINAL PIGMENT EPITHELIUM MAY BE MEDIATED BY THE SCAVENGER RECEPTOR CD36

The specific recognition of negatively charged phospholipids in cell membranes has been suggested to play an important role in a variety of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Recent work (Rigotti, A., Acton, S. L., and Krieger, M. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270, 16221-16224) has described specific and tight binding of anionic phospholipids, such as phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylinositol (PI), to the class B scavenger receptors, CD36 and SR-B1. We have previously reported that CD36 is present on retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and plays a role in the phagocytosis of photoreceptor outer segments (ROS), a function critical to the normal visual process (Ryeom, S. W., Sparrow, J. R., and Silverstein, R. L. (1996) J. Cell Sci. 109, 387-395). We now report that phospholipid liposomes PS and PI, but not phosphatidylethanolamine, bind specifically to RPE. Cross-competition experiments suggest that PS and PI recognize the same receptor on RPE, while immunoinhibition studies indicate that the receptor is CD36. RPE cells isolated from a mutant rat strain, the RPE of which does not express CD36 ( Sparrow, J. R., Ryeom, S. W. , Abumrad, N., Ibrahimi, A., and Silverstein, R. L. (1996) Exp. Eye Res., in press), did not bind PS or PI, further confirming the role of CD36. We also showed that purified ROS blocked binding and uptake of anionic phospholipid liposomes by RPE and that PS and PI liposomes blocked ROS uptake by RPE, suggesting that PS and PI on the ROS membrane may be the ligands on ROS recognized by CD36. This is the first demonstration that CD36-phospholipid interactions may play a role in normal physiology.
Cultivar × Environment Interactions in Switchgrass

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a widely adapted warm-season perennial that has potential as a bioenergy feedstock. The objectives of this study were to estimate the effect of harvest date on switchgrass cultivars at two locations in the north central USA and to determine the relative importance of cultivar x environment interactions for agronomic and biofuel traits of switchgrass. Six switchgrass cultivars were grown in southern Wisconsin and eastern South Dakota for 4 yr and harvested each year at three harvest dates (August, September, and October). Cultivars differed widely in biomass yield, but interacted with all environmental factors. Biomass yield did not respond consistently to harvest date, varying with cultivar, location, and year. Despite these interactions, cultivar rankings for biomass yield was consistent across harvest dates and years, but not locations. There was some preferential adaptation to either Wisconsin or South Dakota, related to longitude of the original germplasm collection site, also reflected by ground cover data. Reduced stands and biomass yields for the August harvest date in later years suggested that harvests delayed to late summer or early autumn may be beneficial in the long term. Mean dry matter, forage fiber, and lignin concentrations also varied among cultivars, consistently across locations and years. These three traits all increased with later harvest consistently across locations and years, but inconsistently among cultivars. It should be possible, through selection and breeding, to develop switchgrass germplasm with. increased fiber and decreased lignin and ash, increasing the availability of fermentable sugars and decreasing the unfermentable and/or incombustible residues.
Beginning a Multidimensional Theory of Creativity.

Creativity is defined as a multidimensional process of interaction between the organism and its environment which results in the emergence of new and unique products, the three main dimensions of creativity being level, field, and type. Within this definition 12 hypotheses are advanced to account for the what, why, and how of creativity. Theoretical contributions by Freud, Jung, Adler, Rank, the neo-Freudians, inter-personal theorists, trait theorists, and association theorists are considered and relevant research findings offered.
Observation of x-ray speckle by coherent scattering at grazing incidence.

We have observed x-ray speckle at grazing incidence from gold-coated films of symmetric diblock copolymers of polystyrene (PS) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The polymer films consisted of micron-sized islands on a uniform surface. Coherent 6-keV photons were selected by monochromatizing and collimating the x-ray beam from a bending magnet synchrotron source. The visibility of the speckle patterns was enhanced with increasing degrees of spatial coherence of the photons. Speckles due to coherent scattering from islands with length scales up to 100 \ensuremath{\mu}m were clearly identified.
Prevalence and morbidity of primary immunodeficiency diseases, United States 2001-2007.

Purpose Few studies have estimated population prevalence and morbidity of primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDD). We used administrative healthcare databases to estimate the prevalence of PIDD diagnoses in the United States from 2001 to 2007.
Kinetics and characterization of bismuth molybdate catalysts: I. A gradientless partial oxidation reactor

A gradientless laboratory fixed bed reactor was designed for studying the partial oxidation of 1-butene to 1,3-butadiene over bismuth-molybdate catalysts. By dilution of the catalyst bed with inert silicon carbide, axial catalyst bed temperature gradients were routinely reduced to 2 K or less over the temperature range 650-740 K for the exothermic model reaction. A systematic experimental procedure was developed and used to show that potential transport 'disguises' did not significantly influence the intrinsic rate of butadiene formation measured under both integral and differential conditions. For one Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} catalyst system, rate of butadiene formation data over the temperature range 700-740 K were fit to pseudo first-order (in butene) kinetics. Analytical solutions of the governing equations describing fixed bed reactor transport disguises for first-order catalytic reactions were used to confirm that the reactor operated in a near gradientless fashion, in agreement with experiment.
Teaching Reproductive Options Through the Use of Fiction: The Cider House Rules Project

Alternative teaching strategies such as storytelling and the critical reading of literature are thought to help students develop their critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and cultural sensitivity and thereby better understand the context in which their patients live and make decisions. Such teaching methods are ideally suited for examining morally complex issues such as reproductive options. This article describes an alternative approach to teaching the complex personal, social, and moral issues surrounding the topic of reproductive options. The critical reading of the book, The Cider House Rules, provides a unique opportunity for students to obtain insight and understanding of the complex circumstances under which women and their families make reproductive decisions.
The effect of nicotinamide on unscheduled DNA synthesis in cultured hepatocytes.

Abstract Unscheduled DNA synthesis of cultured hepatocytes in response to the direct acting carcinogen, methyl methanesulfonate, and to the procarcinogen, 2-acetylaminofluorene, was markedly increased when these cells were cultured in medium containing 25 mM nicotinamide. This effect of nicotinamide was apparently unrelated to the maintenance of intracellular nicotinamide coenzyme levels. The increase in unscheduled DNA synthesis mediated by 2-acetylaminofluorene in nicotinamide-treated hepatocytes could be partially accounted for by the maintenance of higher microsomal capacity for the metabolism of this procarcinogen. The ability of adult rat hepatocytes to respond to nicotinamide by increased unscheduled DNA synthesis was lost within a few hours after plating or upon short withdrawal of this vitamin from the culture medium.
Signs of cerebral atrophy on single-photon emission tomography

Cerebral atrophy often coexists with other brain disorders and by itself may alter the pattern of cerebral perfusion. If unrecognized, it may confound diagnoses based on brain single-photon emission tomography (SPET). In this retrospective study, we describe and evaluate criteria for the diagnosis of cerebral atrophy on technetium-99m hexamethylpropylene amine oxime brain SPET studies. The SPET scans of 11 patients with cerebral atrophy and ten controls were evaluated for the presence of a prominent interhemispheric fissure, presence of prominent cerebral sulci, separation of thalamic nuclei, and pronounced separation of caudate nuclei. The SPET studies were interpreted by two independent observers blind to the findings of magnetic resonance imaging, which provided the final diagnosis of cerebral atrophy. The combination of the four scintigraphic signs was accurate in the diagnosis of cerebral atrophy in 95% of the cases and had a sensitivity of 91% and a specificity of 100%.
Nanostructures for photovoltaics

Abstract The use of various nanostructures in new solar cell designs and modes of enhancing conventional solar cells are described. The cell designs and enhancements are categorized by the type of nanostructure utilized. These include: (a) bulk nanostructured materials [3D]; (b) quantum wells [2D]; (c) nanowires [1D]; and (d) quantum dots/nanoparticles [0D]. The methods of fabricating such structures are first described, followed by examples from the literature of how they have been utilized in a photovoltaic application. Scientific challenges associated with nanostructured photovoltaic devices are also discussed, followed by the prospects for use in real applications.
Physiological Effects of Sound on the Newborn

Excessive sound is an acknowledged problem in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs); however, there is relatively little objective information about the effects of sound on the newborn. The cardiovascular and respiratory systems have been the most extensively studied systems. The patterns of response in these systems may be influenced by a variety of factors, including: the intensity of the sound, the infant's behavioral state, the infant's maturity and postnatal age, and the perinatal history. This article reviews the known cardiovascular, respiratory, and other physiological effects of sound on neonates.
Morphology and tensile property relations of high‐strength/high‐modulus polyethylene fiber

High-strength/high-modulus polyethylene (PE) fibers have been obtained from linear polymers by melt-spinning the polyethylene followed by hot-drawing the spun filaments. Fibers with different tensile properties were made by changing the extrusion, solidification, and drawing conditions and by use of different types of polyethylene. Potential correlations of fiber strength with morphological parameters such as crystallite dimensions, and crystalline and amorphous orientation were examined. The integrated meridional small-angle x-ray scattering intensity is the only morphological parameter which was found to correlate well with the strength of fibers prepared under different conditions and from different polymer types. Implications with respect to the molecular mechanism of PE fiber drawing are also discussed.
The effect of screening for deep vein thrombosis on the prevalence of pulmonary embolism in patients with fractures of the pelvis or acetabulum: a review of 973 patients.

Objectives:In patients with pelvic or acetabular fractures, to compare the prevalence of pulmonary embolism in a time period without screening for deep vein thrombosis to that seen when a screening protocol was in place.Design:Retrospective.Setting:County hospital.Patients:All patients with closed f
Visual Word Reading

In an attempt to gain more knowledge about the human reading process, some experiments were performed using a computer-controlled array of 144 neon lights to simulate a "moving belt" of English text. Subjects were asked to read aloud as the width of the display and horizontal resolution over the display were varied. For the variable-width high-resolution conditions, excellent comprehension was obtained if each point of the moving patterns was visible for at least 150 ms while traveling across the aperture of the display. This 150-ms display-time requirement means that, for a high level of comprehension, reading rate is proportional to the width of the display aperture until the maximum reading speed of the subject is reached. If the subjects are reading over 50 words per minute, the variable resolution results indicate that greater reading speed can be obtained by distributing the same number of neon lights over a wider field of view. Reading with analogous tactile arrays by blind subjects was compared with these visual results and showed good agreement. A simple model of the human reading process consistent with these results is presented and discussed. These results have direct bearing on the design of displays with optimum information-transfer capabilities.
The Effects of Muscle-Building Exercise on Vitamin D and Mineral Metabolism

Exercise and muscle strength are important determinants of bone mass. Studies were carried out in normal young adult white males to determine the effects of exercise on vitamin D and mineral metabolism. Fourteen men who had engaged in regular muscle-building exercises for at least 1 year and 14 age-matched controls (age range, 19-36 year) were hospitalized on a metabolic ward and were given a constant daily diet estimated to contain 400 mg of calcium, 900 mg of phosphorus, 110 mEq of sodium, 65 mEq of potassium, and 18 mEq of magnesium. Body weight averaged 78 +/- 3 kg in the exercisers and 72 +/- 2 kg in the controls (NS). Serum calcium, ionized calcium, phosphate, magnesium, somatomedin-C, and immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (PTH) were not different in the two groups, whereas serum Gla-protein (39 +/- 5 vs. 24 +/- 2 ng/ml, p less than 0.01), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (23 +/- 2 vs. 16 +/- 2, p less than 0.05) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] (40 +/- 2 vs. 29 +/- 2 pg/ml, p less than 0.01) were higher in the exercisers than in the controls. Urinary calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, creatinine clearance, and norepinephrine were not different in the two groups, whereas urinary magnesium (12.6 +/- 1.0 vs. 9.4 +/- 0.5 mEq/d, p less than 0.01) and urinary cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) (2.52 +/- 0.19 vs. 1.72 +/- 0.20 nM/dl glomerular filtrate, p less than 0.01) were higher in the exercisers than in the controls.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Spectral distribution of preconditioned elliptic operators

This paper is concerned with the singular value distribution and eigenvalue distribution of preconditioned non-selfadjoint elliptic operators corresponding to finite element discretizations of elliptic boundary value problems. The distribution of the singular values has an important bearing on the convergence behavior of the conjugate gradient method applied to the normal equations. The eigenvalue distribution has an important bearing on various alternative conjugate gradient like iterative methods. The main results give a precise interval on which the singular values cluster. It is also shown that the (complex) eigenvalues cluster about an interval of the real axis under suitable assumptions. The analysis is based on the theory of collectively compact operators.
The use of patient and provider perspectives to develop a patient-oriented website for women diagnosed with breast cancer

Abstract Objective Develop a patient education program that provides accurate and easy-to-understand information for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. Methods To inform development of the patient education program, we conducted a longitudinal series of semi-structured interviews with 30 breast cancer patients as well as one-time interviews with 22 healthcare providers. Responses guided the study team's decisions regarding both form and content. Results We created a website ( www.cancercarelinks.org ) that reflects the needs expressed by patients and providers. The website is structured to answer six key questions that emerged in the interviews: What does my diagnosis mean? What will my treatment be like? Who will be involved with my treatment? What has treatment been like for others? How can I share my story with my family and friends? Where can I find more information and support? In a beta-test, 12 breast cancer patients rated the website as very clear, informative, trustworthy, useful, easy-to-understand, and easy to use. Conclusion The emotional weight of a breast cancer diagnosis, coupled with the amount of disparate information available, can be overwhelming for patients. Providing clear, accurate, and tailored information is a way to meet information needs and allay fears that patients will receive “bad” information. Practice Implications Combining patient and provider input with the perspectives of a multidisciplinary team resulted in a promising patient education program for women diagnosed with breast cancer. The logic of this approach has implications for developing patient education programs for a variety of clinical contexts.
Some nuclear properties of fermium-257

Abstract A total half-life of 100·5±0·2 days and an alpha-to-spontaneous-fission decay ratio of 475±10 have been measured for 257 Fm by counting in ionization chambers. Thermal-neutron fission cross sections for 257 Fm (2950±160 b) and its daughter, 253 Cf (1300±240 b), have been measured in a thermal-neutron column using mica as a fission-fragment track recorder.
Large-Scale Variations in the Obliquity of Mars

Large-scale variations in the obliquity of the planet Mars are produced by a coupling between the motion of its orbit plane due to the gravitational perturbations of the other planets and the precession of its spin axis which results from the solar torque exerted on the equatorial bulge of the planet. The obliquity oscillates on a time scale of approximately 1.2 x 10^5 years. The amplitude of this oscillation itself varies periodically on a time scale of 1.2 X 10^6 years. The present-day obliquity is approximately 25.1 degrees. The maximum possible variation is from about 14.9 to 35.5 degrees. Signtificant climatic effects must be associated with the phenomenon.
A Smart-Phone Application and a Companion Website for the Improvement of the Communication Skills of Children with Autism: Clinical Rationale, Technical Development and Preliminary Results

Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that is part of a group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Today, one in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism. Lack of social interaction and problems with communication are the main characteristics displayed by children with ASD. The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a communication system where children exchange visual symbols as a form of communication. The visual symbols are laminated pictures stored in a binder. We have designed, developed and are currently testing a software application, called PixTalk which works on any Windows Mobile Smart-phone. Teachers and caregivers can access a web site and select from an online library the images to be downloaded on to the Smart-phone. Children can browse and select images to express their intentions, desires, and emotions using PixTalk. Case study results indicate that PixTalk can be used as part of ongoing therapy.
Culture as Consensus: A Theory of Culture and Informant Accuracy

This paper presents and tests a formal mathematical model for the analysis of informant responses to systematic interview questions. We assume a situation in which the ethnographer does not know how much each informant knows about the cultural domain under consideration nor the answers to the questions. The model simultaneously provides an estimate of the cultural competence or knowledge of each informant and an estimate of the correct answer to each question asked of the informant. The model currently handles true-false, multiple-choice, andfill-in-the-blank type question formats. In familiar cultural domains the model produces good results from as few as four informants. The paper includes a table showing the number of informants needed to provide stated levels of confidence given the mean level of knowledge among the informants. Implications are discussed.
Choline post-mortem increase: Effect of tissue, agitation, pH and temperature

Abstract The present study demonstrates that several mouse tissues produce choline post-mortem. Following incubation at 38°C for 15 minutes, brain, eye, heart, lung, liver, ileum, and kidney demonstrated a significant increase in choline compared to their control values. Of the tissues examined, only skeletal muscle failed to produce a post-mortem increase in choline. The effects of physical agitation, pH and temperature on the post-mortem increase of brain choline were also examined. Incubation at pH 9.0 and physical agitation magnified the production of choline in mouse brain homogenates. The generation of choline in mouse brain homogenates was temperature dependent up to 48°C and decreased dramatically at 68°C. The post-mortem production of choline in the brain is probably enzymatic since the generation is altered by physical agitation, temperature and pH. The catabolism of phospholipids may be the common denominator in all of the tissues since choline production does not seem to be related to cholinergic innervation.
Polycythemic mice produced by hypoxia in silicone rubber membrane enclosures: a new technique

SummaryUtilizing enclosures covered with silicone rubber membrane, a new, safe, and simple method for producing polycythemia by hypoxia is presented. The polycythemic animals are excellent for use in erythropoietin assays.
A Theory for the Maximum Windspeeds in Tornado-like Vortices

Abstract We have developed a physical theory for the finding that the most intense laboratory vortex occurs when it is in the form of an end-wall vortex. We argue that the end-wall vortex allows no standing centrifugal waves (i.e., it is supercritical), and therefore, disturbances cannot propagate down from aloft. This allows the low central pressure of the end-wall vortex at the level of maximum azimuthal velocity to be balanced by a central axial jet which jet which accelerates from the lower end wall to this level. This supercritical, end-wall vortex undergoes a transition to a subcritical vortex aloft through a vortex breakdown. We construct a model for the maximum intensity of these vortices by developing a model for the end-wall vortex and by finding the criterion for a vortex breakdown to be in steady suspension above the lower end wall. The model agrees well with previous experimental simulations of tornado-like vortices in the Purdue tornado vortex chamber a steady end-wall vortex adjacent to the...
Metabolic and developmental responses of alcid chicks to experimental variation in food intake.

Abstract I tested whether the ability of chicks to suspend growth and developmental processes in response to food shortages is greater among alcids with food resources that fluctuate over short time periods than it is among close relatives with food that is continuously available. I examined changes in chick resting metabolic rate (RMR) in response to short‐term food deprivation in horned and tufted puffins (intermittent food provisioning) and crested and parakeet auklets (continuous food provisioning). RMR was based on measurements of chick oxygen consumption rates (Vo2) under thermoneutral conditions. RMR of postabsorptive chicks scaled allometrically with body mass, and regression slopes were statistically indistinguishable among species. Mass‐independent RMR of the same individuals decreased significantly after 48 h of food deprivation. The decrease in the mass‐independent RMR was greater in puffins (46.8% in horned and 47.4% in tufted puffins) than in auklets (29.4% in crested and 23.7% in parakeet a...
Molecular Structure of α-d-Glucose-1-phosphate Cytidylyltransferase from Salmonella typhi

Abstract Dideoxysugars, which display biological activities ranging from mediating cell-cell interactions to serving as components in some antibiotics, are synthesized in various organisms via complex biochemical pathways that begin with the attachment of α-d-glucose 1-phosphate to either CTP or dTTP. Here we describe the three-dimensional structure of the α-d-glucose-1-phosphate cytidylyltransferase from Salmonella typhi, which catalyzes the first step in the production of CDP-tyvelose. For this investigation, the enzyme was crystallized in the presence of its product, CDP-glucose. In contrast to previous reports, the enzyme exists as a fully integrated hexamer with 32-point group symmetry. Each subunit displays a “bird-like” appearance with the “body” composed predominantly of a seven-stranded mixed β-sheet and the two “wings” formed by β-hairpin motifs. These two wings mediate subunit-subunit interactions along the 3-fold and 2-fold rotational axes, respectively. The six active sites of the hexamer are situated between the subunits related by the 2-fold rotational axes. CDP-glucose is anchored to the protein primarily by hydrogen bonds with backbone carbonyl oxygens and peptidic NH groups. The side chains of Arg111 and Asn188 from one subunit and Glu178 and Lys179 from the second subunit are also involved in hydrogen bonding with the ligand. The topology of the main core domain bears striking similarity to that observed for glucose-1-phosphate thymidylyltransferase and 4-diphosphocytidyl-2-C-methylerythritol synthetase.
"Historia magistra vitae" e imitación: la ejemplaridad política de las historias en Maquiavelo

This paper analyzes the development of the Ciceronian topos historia magistra vitae in the work of Niccolo Machiavelli in so far as it brings into play a concept of history which is not involved in the didactic-moralizing role of the humanist tradition, in such a way that the exemplarity of the histories emerges as an essential element for the configuration of an arte dello stato . This formulation of the commonplace in his work is linked to a critical approach to the imitation of ancient times and the examples collected in histories through a double articulation that places him in an eclectic position between classicism and novelty.
A study on the morphological stability of faceted interfaces in antimony-doped germanium single crystals grown by the axial heat processing method

An antimony-doped germanium single crystal was grown by the axial heat processing (AHP) method from the melt to study the influence of facets on the morphological stability of a solid/liquid interface. A mathematical model together with experimental data was utilized to predict the solute concentration and stability in the grown crystal. It is shown that the faceted portion of the interface remains stable longer than does the nonfaceted portion. In addition, instability of the faceted region occurs at a higher solute concentration with larger cell spacing.
A 5‐Day Estradiol Therapy, in Amounts Reproducing Concentrations of the Early‐Mid Follicular Phase, Prevents the Activation of the Hypothalamo‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Axis by Interleukin‐1α in the Ovariectomized Rhesus Monkey

In a previous report, we have shown that intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of the cytokine interleukin-1a (IL-1α) in the ovariectomized (OVX) rhesus monkey results in the acute activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the inhibition of LH and FSH secretion. Here, we compare the cortisol response to IL-1α administration in OVX monkeys and in OVX animals replaced with estradiol (E) to reproduce E concentrations typical of the early-mid follicular phase. Cortisol, LH and FSH were measured after an icv infusion of physiological saline or IL-1α (2.1 or 4.2 μg/30 min) in both groups. E-containing capsules were implanted sc 5 days prior to the experiment. In OVX, E concentrations were 100 pg/ml, confirming our previous observations. While saline infusion did not affect LH (102.3 ± 10.2% of baseline at 5 h) or FSH (102.5 ± 4.4%) secretion in OVX monkeys, there was a significant decrease in both hormones after IL-1α (LH: 33.3±3.7%, FSH: 66.2 ± 6.5%; P<0.05 vs saline). This effect was lessened in OVXE animals: By 5 h, areas under the LH curve were 62.8 ± 10.9% of baseline in grp 1 and 85.3 ± 7.9% in grp 2 (NS vs saline), while those under the FSH curve were 84.0 ± 6.5% in grp 1 and 77.7 ± 4.3% in grp 2 (NS vs saline). The data demonstrate a striking effect of a 5-day estradiol treatment in preventing the HPA axis response to the cytokine IL-1α in the OVX monkey. This action, however, occurs only within restricted estradiol concentrations that reproduce E levels typical of the early-mid follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. While the precise mechanism through which estradiol exerts this action remains to be investigated, the results may have clinical relevance to the issue of estrogen replacement therapy in physiology and pathology.
Systems thinking in higher education: learning comes to focus

The question I contemplate in this paper is: What does systems thinking tell us about how to provide for learning and human development? As a researcher, teacher, and author I have addressed this question throughout my professional life. We discussed this question at the July '97 International Seminar in Systems Thinking in Higher Education at the Open University. This paper is an elaboration of my contribution to the seminar. In Part One, I tell the story of a hypothetical conversation between a subject-matter professor and a systems thinker. It highlights the difference between an instructional-focused and learning-focused approach to education. In Part Two, I elaborate this difference from a systems perspective. In Part Three, I present an epistemology, which brings learning into focus. And, in Part Four, I introduce an image of a systems complex that manifests a shift from instructional to learning focused education. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vascularity of the supraspinatus tendon three months after repair: characterization using contrast-enhanced ultrasound.

Background There has been limited in-vivo assessment of rotator cuff vascularity following repair. This study aims to characterize the vascularity of the shoulder 3 months following supraspinatus tendon repair. Methods Twenty-nine patients (average age, 61.4 years) underwent Perflutren lipid microsphere contrast-enhanced shoulder ultrasound examinations 3 months after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Each shoulder was scanned at rest and following exercise using linear phased array 9-MHz transducer optimized to detect the contrast agent. Blood flow was quantified off-line using ultrasound imaging quantification and analysis software (QLAB, Philips, Andover, MA). Peak enhancement (vascular volume) and rate of rise (perfusion) were determined for 3 regions of interest: peribursal area, supraspinatus tendon, and anchor site. Results Peak enhancement and rate of rise were greatest in the peribursal soft tissue and anchor site. Resting peak enhancement and rate of rise were significantly lower within the tendon compared to the other 2 regions ( P P = .026). Conclusion At 3 months following repair, the majority of blood flow to the repair is derived from the peribursal soft tissues and the anchor site. The tendon, particularly those with a defect at 3 months, is relatively avascular. Though limited by inclusion of only a single time point, this study introduces a new technique to quantify vascularity following supraspinatus repairs and suggests that the surrounding vascular milieu may play a role in tendon healing. Level of Evidence Basic Science.
The University of Texas at Dallas/Callier Center for Communication Disorders Doctor of Audiology Program.

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to describe the history and resources of the doctor of audiology (AuD) program at the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD)/Callier Center for Communication Disorders, as well as to provide an overview of the program. Method: Data from 1999, when the AuD program was approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Program, to the present were reviewed. Conclusions: The UTD/Callier Center AuD program includes more than 40 faculty members, spans 3 campuses, and has 8 research laboratories. Total enrollment is 32 students (8 students are admitted each year for the 4-year program). Students have access to extensive resources and learning opportunities. The clinical and research programs at the UTD/Callier Center are actively involved in providing high-quality, indepth education to future doctors of audiology.
THE THYROTROPHIC ACTIVITY OF THE PITUITARY OF THE WHITE LEGHORN COCKEREL AS RELATED TO ITS CYTOLOGY

INTRODUCTION IT WAS recognized as early as 1898 by Comte that a relationship exists between the cytological picture of the pituitary and the physiological state of the animal. Numerous attempts have been made to correlate the function of the anterior hypophysis with its cytology, but it cannot yet be said with certainty that a particular pituitary cell type is responsible for the elaboration of a certain hormone. Perhaps the closest approach to unanimity of opinion in this matter is in regard to the origin of the follicle stimulating hormone from basophiles. This is supported by the cytological work of Severinghaus with the rat (1937), Payne with the chick (1947), and others, and by such experimental work as that of Schooley and Riddle on the pigeon (1938) and Breneman on the chick (1941). The origin of the luteinizing hormone from the acidophiles is a little less certain, while considerable confusion exists regarding the cytological source of the thyrotrophic hormone.