cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of experiment and theory for the resonance Raman spectrum of I2 in solution. IV. Band shapes and hot bands

Each observed Raman transition of I2 in solution is made up of an overlapping series consisting of the fundamental, or an overtone, and its associated hot bands. As the excitation frequency is changed, these various components change their relative intensities, making it appear that the Raman transition changes frequency. The Raman excitation profiles of the separate transitions have been measured and the results compared to calculations. The results suggest the presence of heretofore uncharacterized I2 states—perhaps charge transfer states—that contribute to the Raman intensity. However, we cannot suggest a specific state that would be consistent with all the experimental results presented in this series of papers.
Serum ECP levels and methacholine challenge in infants with recurrent wheezing

Background High levels of serum eosinophil cationic protein (sECP) as a marker of eosinophilic airway inflammation have been described as a predictor of childhood asthma. Bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) appears to be secondary to the release of inflammatory mediators. Objective We investigated the possible correlation between eosinophilic inflammation and BHR in 72 infants with recurrent wheezing. Methods To determine bronchial reactivity, lung function measurements with methacholine challenge were performed in 72 infants, aged 12 to 30 months, and the degree of BHR to methacholine was compared with sECP values. Patients were grouped according to low (group 1, 20 μg/L, n=27) sECP values. Results In group 1, sECP levels ranged from 3.1 to 9.9 μg/L, mean 6.6 μg/L ± standard deviation [SD] 2.3, in group 2, from 10.3 to 19.8 μg/L, mean 14.3 μg/L ± SD 2.8, and in group 3 from 23.0 to 66.7 μg/L, mean 34.5 μg/L ± SD 9.5. Distribution of provocative methacholine concentration among groups was as follows: group 1, 30 to 976 μg, mean 350.9 μg ± SD 258.3; group 2, 36 to 752 μg, mean 340.7 μg ± SD 226.3; group 3, 41 to 848 μg, mean 301.3 μg ± SD 189.8 methacholine. Conclusion There was no significant correlation between sECP levels and bronchial reactivity in all groups ( r = −0.076, P = 0.6), indicating that these parameters reflect two independent pathogenic mechanisms in the etiology of childhood asthma.
The traveller and emerging infections: sentinel, courier, transmitter

The movement of populations shapes the patterns and distribution of infectious diseases globally. The consequences of travel are seen in the traveller and in places and populations visited and may persist long after travel. The traveller can be seen as an interactive biological unit who picks up, processes, carries and drops off microbial genetic material. A traveller can introduce potential pathogens in the absence of signs or symptoms of illness. Travellers can serve as a sentinel population; study of them can provide insights into the presence and level of risk of transmission of infections in other geographical regions. Travellers can also be seen as couriers who inadvertently ferry pathogens and microbial genetic material to regions where researchers can carry out detailed analyses that can help to map the location and movement of strains, genotypes and resistance patterns. The laboratory plays a key role in the identification and characterization of pathogens, which can inform management of individual patients and the public health response. The connectedness and mobility in the world today facilitate the emergence of infectious diseases in humans and also in animals and plants. Many traditional barriers have been breached by travel, roads and technology. Population size and density favour spread of many infections. The rapid generation time of microbes and their capacity to adapt to changes in the physico-chemical and immunological environment will pose continuing challenges.
In vitro degradation characteristics of poly(anhydride‐imides) containing trimellitylimidoglycine

The in vitro degradation characteristics of poly(anhydride-imides) containing trimellitylimidoglycine, with either 1,6-bis(carboxyphenoxy)hexane or sebacic acid, were assessed. The copolymers contained 10, 30, or 50 mol % of the imide monomer, trimellitylimidoglycine. Degradation was pH-sensitive, being enhanced under basic conditions. Control of degradation times from 1 day to 2 months was achieved by the selection of appropriate monomer units in the polymer backbone. Monomers were chosen based on their solubility in aqueous media, as well as how they influenced the hydrophobicity of the polymer matrices. Increasing the amount of imide monomer, trimellitylimidoglycine, and the use of sebacic acid rather than 1,6-bis(carboxyphenoxy)-hexane as the comonomer increased the degradation rate of the polymer matrices.
Characteristics and behavior of newly listed firms: Evidence from the Asia-Pacific region

Abstract We examine the size, profitability and delisting experience during 1980–1999 of new lists in the Pacific Basin countries. We also examine the impact of the legal environment on post-listing behavior. We find that new lists are more numerous in common law countries. They are smaller than seasoned firms, regardless of legal regime. New lists are more profitable in civil law countries, but this is due to the high profitability of Japanese new lists. Asian new lists have lower rates of delisting compared to U.S. firms. The delisting frequency of seasoned firms exceeds that of new lists for our sample countries.
Case report 808

The differential diagnosis of unexplained hip pain after trauma in patients with normal radiographs includes both soft tissue and bony abnormalities. We have presented a case of an isolated fracture of the greater trochanter in an adult with normal radiographs where the diagnosis was made by MRI.
Water and Absorptive Properties of Restructured Beef Products with Five Binders at Four Isothermal Temperatures

Abstract Water and absorptive properties of five restructured meat products with binders were determined at 35, 45, 55 and 65 °C. Binders were: isolated soy protein, sodium caseinate, waxy modified corn starch, carrageenan, and hydrolysed oat flour. Forty gram meat samples were heated (25–30 min) in a water-bath set at the desired internal temperature. Properties were measured with standard techniques: drip loss after freezing and before heating, cooking losses, pH, a w , water-holding capacity and water-absorption capacity. Randomized complete block designs were used. Water absorptive properties were highly affected by binders, heating temperatures and their interactions. The influence of the binders on the quality of restructured beef products during heat processing was temperature-dependent.
A Bayesian Decision Procedure for Selecting Prognostic Variables Associated with Survival for Data in which Censoring is Prevalent

A Bayesian procedure is developed for the selection of concomitant variables in survival models. The variables are selected in a step-up procedure according to the criterion of maximum expected likelihood, where the expectation is over the prior parameter space. Prior knowledge of the influence of these covariates on patient prognosis is incorporated into the analysis. The step-up procedure is stopped when the Bayes factor in favor of omitting the variable selected in a particular step exceeds a specified value. The resulting model with the selected variables is fitted using Bayes estimates of the coefficients. This technique is applied to Hodgkin's disease data from a large Cooperative Clinical Trial Group and the results are compared to the results from the classical likelihood selection procedure.
Resistance Welding of Motor Frames

Cost reduction calls for a continual revision of methods. The making of motor frames using rolled plate in place of castings formerly used, the object being to reduce cost is one such revision. The method of manufacture is briefly outlined including the rolling, welding, sizing, and other operations. The electric resistance welding method is emphasized and results of electrical tests on equipment are outlined. The oscillograph records give the character of a resistance flash weld in some detail. The conclusion is reached that not only is there a saving in cost of frames, but also a reduction in machining costs. The result is a better product at less cost.
BASELINE LEVELS OF SELECTED TRACE ELEMENTS IN COLORADO OIL SHALE REGION ANIMALS

Baseline levels of boron, fluorine, molybdenum, and copper are described for 18 mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and for 45 composite samples of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) from the Piceance Creek Basin, Rio Blanco County, Colorado. These data were collected before oil shale mining took place, and can be used to compare with levels found after mining is initiated. The data can thus be used to monitor changes in levels in animal tissues and as a basis for mitigating possible harmful effects due to the mining. Mean ppm (± S.D.) dry basis of each element is presented for selected tissues of each species. Results are also presented by habitat type for deer mice and by age for mule deer. Significant differences (P < 0.05) in molybdenum levels in deer mice were found between habitats. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were found between fawns and adult mule deer for boron levels, but not for the other elements. A need to standardize bone selection for analysis of fluorine was indicated. Kidneys appeared ...
Computer-aided structure synthesis of spatial kinematic chains

Abstract This paper presents a new form of structure formula for spatial mechanisms, which is expressed by using N bars with corresponding pair elements rather than by using pairs. The method of computer-aided structure synthesis of multi-loop, multi-degree-of-freedom, spatial kinematic chains is applied, and all possible kinematic chains are calculated under given conditions.
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin: its effect on genes for mandible traits in mice

Abstract 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dioxin (TCDD) is a powerful toxicant that exerts its effects through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) governed by the Ahr locus that in mice is located on chromosome 12. We used single marker analyses of the offspring of female mice treated/not treated with TCDD to search for a gene (quantitative trait locus or QTL) on chromosome 12 near the site of the Ahr locus to test whether this locus appeared to affect mandible size, shape, and/or asymmetry especially in the treated mice. These mice were sampled from the F 2 generation of an original intercross of two strains (C57BL/6J and AKR/J) known to be divergent in their response to TCDD. A QTL affecting mandible shape was found on chromosome 12, but its effect on mice in the treated and control groups did not differ and it was concluded that this QTL probably was not the Ahr locus itself. We also probed a second chromosome (11) and found a QTL whose effects on asymmetry of mandible shape differed in the two environments. These results suggested that the entire genome in these mice should be scanned to search for additional QTLs that might be affected by TCDD to learn more about the potential effects of this powerful toxicant on these genes.
A novel gas-droplet numerical method for spray combustion

This paper presents a non-iterative numerical technique for computing time-dependent gas-droplet flows. The method is a fully-interacting combination of Eulerian fluid and Lagrangian particle calculation. The interaction calculations between the two phases are formulated on a pressure-velocity coupling procedure based on the operator-splitting technique. This procedure eliminates the global iterations required in the conventional particle-source-in-cell (PSIC) procedure. Turbulent dispersion calculations are treated by a stochastic procedure. Numerical calculations and comparisons with available experimental data, as well as efficiency assessments are given for some sprays typical of spray combustion applications.
Demonstrating the use of a SenseCam in two domains

MyLifeBits is both an application and a framework to manage a personal lifetime of memories. We will demonstrate the use of a small digital library that manages data from two Microsoft SenseCams, used by: 1) students in the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, and 2) students supported by our Assistive Technologies office.
Telecommunication networks as social space: implications for research and policy and an exemplar

We can only understand the scope, nature and underlying driving forces of the major changes now occuring in telecommunications networks if we grasp the linkages between the technical design of the relevant technologies, the corporate and government policy decisions shaping telecommunications products and services and the changing perceptions and behaviours of network users. In this article we attempt to grasp these linkages by developing a socio-spatial understanding of telecommunications networks. We extend and adapt the theorizing of Giddens, Goffman and others on the dynamics of social interaction in physical settings to electronic settings. This is done by delineating a series of socio-spatial concepts — `space', `environment', `proximate space', `virtual space', `public space', `private space'. We suggest these concepts, when integrated with `institutional' and `strategic conduct' analysis, provide a framework for guiding research on these linkages. The introduction of `call management services', par...
Pair correlations in the cluster variation approximation

Abstract The cluster variation method is used to obtain approximate free energy functions for a binary system in an inhomogeneous field, in order to calculate the Fourier transform of the pair correlation functions. In the two-dimensional square lattice, using the nearest-neighbors square as the basic cluster, the correlation functions are correctly given up to the order 7 in the inverse temperature. The effect of second-neighbor pairs and many-body interactions is investigated.
Communicative and Non-Communicative Activities in First-Year College German Textbooks

The past thirty years have brought important changes to the foreign language teaching profes sion in the areas of methods and materials1. Lan guage instructors have seen a shift from the Audiolingual Method of the 1950s and '60s, with its behaviorist emphasis on pattern drills and mem orization of dialogs, to a focus on communicative competence beginning in the 1970s. The goal of teaching for communicative competence was to provide learners the means to expand their ability to speak the target language naturally in authentic settings (Liskin-Gasparro, "ACTFC 12). This shift in approach to foreign language teaching came largely from second language (L2) acquisition theories about proficiency develop ment that have led to a call for more meaning based, interactive activities in language teaching? activities that would require the conveyance of new information and the negotiation of meaning be tween the speakers (Lee and VanRatten, Making 52-54; Larsen-Freeman). "Proficiency" refers to measurable levels of competence that a language learner demonstrates (Omaggio Hadley 9) in speaking, listening, reading, and writing at various levels. Recent studies of teachers' beliefs about for
From Calabar to Carter's Grove: The History of a Virginia Slave Community. By Lorena S. Walsh. Charlottesville and London: University Press of Virginia, 2001. Pp. xxii, 335. $18.95, paper.

Over the past quarter century, no scholar has done more to document the social history of the colonial Chesapeake than Lorena Walsh. In so doing, she has made important scholarly contributions in a variety of areas, most notably, in agricultural history, demographic history, African American history, and women's history. Along with such scholars as Lois Green Carr, Allan Kulikoff, Darrett and Anita Rutman, and Russell Menard among others in the so-called Chesapeake School, Walsh has helped to create a powerful framework for understanding the evolution of Virginia and Maryland and for interpreting the behavior of the populations residing therein. Two of the hallmarks of the work of scholars associated with the â€œSchoolâ€ are innovative methodologies and meticulous, painstaking research, both of which characteristics are readily apparent in the volume under review.
OLISTHODISCUS LUTEUS (CHRYSOPHYCEAE). V. ITS OCCURRENCE, ABUNDANCE AND DYNAMICS IN NARRAGANSETT BAY, RHODE ISLAND1

The distribution and abundance of the flagellate Olisthodiscus luteus Carter were examined over a 17 yr period (1959–75) at one station in lower Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, and at many stations throughout the Bay during the 1974, 1975 summer bloom periods. A bimodal pattern of maximum abundance characterized the 17 yr data set. Maxima (103–104 cells·ml−1) occurred during June–July and October–November separated by a mid summer (August) minimum of 105 cells·ml−1 during June 1974 and were confined to the northern and western regions of Narragansett Bay. Incident light, temperature, salinity and nutrient (NH4+, NO3−, NO2−, PO43-) levels were also determined. The abundance cycle appears to be strongly effected by temperature, life cycle, motility, excreted substances and, to lesser extent, by light intensity, salinity, and nutrient dynamics. Regional distribution is affected by motility, wind forced water movements and benthic stage formation. The autecological data for O. luteus, pertinent observations of herbivorous zooplankton and the field observations are used to assess causative factors regulating the dynamics of O. luteus populations in Narragansett Bay. Pratt's hypothesis on the interaction between this species and Skeletonema costatum (Grev.) Cleve is reexamined.
Dynamical effects of mode specific excitation in unimolecular decomposition: A trajectory study of C2H6

Abstract Classical trajectories on a well coupled model potential energy surface have been used to study the effects of mode localized excitation on unimolecular decomposition in C 2 H 6 . The results display both apparent and intrinsic non-statistical effects that can be ascribed to restrictions in intramolecular energy transfer both among the CH vibrations and between these CC motion.
Raman study of photoexcited C60

Abstract The high-energy pentagonal pinch mode of C 60 is known to soften under high incident laser irradiance in an oxygen-free environment. We have studied this phenomenon in C 60 films, single crystals, and solutions in CS 2 . Our Raman, optical absorption, and EPR data indicate that the softened Raman peak is related to very long lived states in C 60 . The experiments are consistent with the recently proposed photoinduced polymerization of C 60 and also suggest the presence of C 60 anions in the photoexcited material.
Effect of anesthesia and surgery on plasma renin activity in man.

Plasma renin activity (PRA) levels in 31 surgical patients were measured before pre-anesthesia, during pre-anesthesia, after induction of major anesthesia, during surgery, and post-operatively. The mean PRA levels in these patients did not change significantly with preanesthesia or major anesthesia. The PRA levels at the midpoint of the surgical procedures, however, were increased three-fold. Correlation between “net fluid gain” and PRA during operation revealed that the highest renin levels were present in patients who received the lowest amount of fluids during the surgical procedure. Although catecholamine release and sympathetic discharge undoubtedly play a role in raising renin secretion during surgical stress, the results of the present study suggest that renin secretion during such stress is modified by blood vol changes.
Applications of WDM in the Metro Access Market

Fiber optics is now widely deployed in data networks inside of buildings and in the long haul telecom networks. But tying these networks are copper based transmission lines in the metropolitan areas. As fiber is able to take over in the metropolitan access networks a uniformly high bandwidth, low latency network emerges. Technically speaking this is the most challenging area for optical communications technology. It requires low cost, sometimes extended temperature, small size and power and very often WDM on top of all these other constraints because laying new fibers for this network is prohibitively expensive. Use of WDM in these markets allows use of lean fiber plant simultaneously with service separation by wavelength. Thus different protocols and end user needs are flexibly met on a pay as you deploy and use basis. This paper draws a number of simple metro access rings each with different bandwidths and protocols and technologies. Costs as well as performance will be cited on a per node basis.
Thermal expansion of corundum structure Rh2O3

Abstract The directional thermal expansion coefficients of the corundum structure form of Rh2O3 were determined from room temperature to 850°C by x-ray diffraction methods. Rh2O3 has a lower thermal expansion and is less anisotropic in thermal expansion than alumina. The directional thermal expansion coefficients of Rh2O3 expressed in second degree polynominal form are: “α a ” = 5.350 ×10 −6 + 1.281 ×10 −9 T − 1.133 ×10 −14 T 2 /° C and “α c ” = 5.246 ×10 −6 + 6.369 ×10 −9 T − 7.480 ×10 −14 T 2 /° C .
Requirement for Sustained MAPK Signaling in Both CD4 and CD8 Lineage Commitment: A Threshold Model

Although there is general agreement that the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway is required for positive selection of CD4 T cells in the thymus, the role of this pathway in CD8 lineage commitment remains controversial. We show here that the differentiation of isolated cultured thymocytes to the CD8 as well as CD4 T cell lineage is sensitive to MEK inhibition and that both CD4 and CD8 thymocyte differentiation requires sustained MEK signaling. However, CD4 lineage commitment is promoted by a stronger stimulus for longer duration than required for CD8 lineage commitment. Interestingly, CD4 lineage commitment is not irreversibly set even after 10 h of signaling, well past early changes in gene expression. These findings are presented in the context of a model of lineage commitment in which a default pathway of CD8 lineage commitment is altered to CD4 commitment if the thymocyte achieves a threshold level of active MAPK within a certain time frame.
Transient Enhancement and Detuning of Laser-Driven Parametric Instabilities by Particle Trapping

Kinetic simulations of backward stimulated Raman scattering (BSRS), where the Langmuir wave coherence time is greater than the bounce time for trapped electrons, yield transient reflectivity levels far above those predicted by fluidlike models. Electron trapping reduces the Langmuir wave damping and lowers the Langmuir wave frequency, and leads to a secular phase shift between the Langmuir wave and the BSRS beat ponderomotive force. This phase shift detunes and saturates BSRS and a similar effect, due to ion trapping, is the saturation mechanism for backward stimulated Brillouin scattering. Competition with forward SRS is discussed.
TRAM, a predicted RNA-binding domain, common to tRNA uracil methylation and adenine thiolation enzymes

A previously undetected conserved domain is identified in two distinct classes of tRNA-modifying enzymes, namely uridine methylases of the TRM2 family and enzymes of the MiaB family that are involved in 2-methylthioadenine formation. This domain, for which the acronym TRAM is proposed after TRM2 and MiaB, is predicted to bind tRNA and deliver the RNA-modifying enzymatic domains to their targets. In addition to the two families of RNA-modifying enzymes, the TRAM domain is present in several other proteins associated with the translation machinery and in a family of small, uncharacterized archaeal proteins that are predicted to have a role in the regulation of tRNA modification or translation. Secondary structure prediction indicates that the TRAM domain adopts a simple β-barrel fold. In addition, sequence analysis of the MiaB family enzymes showed that they share the predicted catalytic site with biotin and lipoate synthases and probably employ the same mechanism for sulfur insertion into their respective substrate.
Evaluations of Hawaii Creole English and Standard English

The growing number of multicultural dialect and creole speakers entering the public school system underlines the importance of understanding perceptions pertaining to language standards and differe...
Creative processes to develop world class systems for manufacturing

The traditional US approach to manufacturing is first described; then the highly competitive approach referred to as world-class manufacturing (WCM) is discussed. Next, the systems used by progressive US firms in implementation of the world-class manufacturing concept are described. The concept includes just-in-time inventory control, total quality control, and computer-integrated manufacturing. Finally, some approaches to generating more creative ideas in manufacturing that should enable the remainder of US manufacturing organizations to replicate the result of the progressive firms are described. >
The Transcriptome of Prematurely Aging Yeast Cells Is Similar to That of Telomerase-deficient Cells

To help define the pathologies associated with yeast cells as they age, we analyzed the transcriptome of young and old cells isolated by elutriation, which allows isolation of biochemical quantities of old cells much further advanced in their life span than old cells prepared by the biotin-streptavidin method. Both 18-generation-old wild-type yeast and 8-generation-old cells from a prematurely aging mutant (dna2-1), with a defect in DNA replication, were evaluated. Genes involved in gluconeogenesis, the glyoxylate cycle, lipid metabolism, and glycogen production are induced in old cells, signifying a shift toward energy storage. We observed a much more extensive generalized stress response known as the environmental stress response (ESR), than observed previously in biotin-streptavidin-isolated cells, perhaps because the elutriated cells were further advanced in their life span. In addition, there was induction of DNA repair genes that fall in the so-called DNA damage "signature" set. In the dna2-1 mutant, energy production genes were also induced. The response in the dna2-1 strain is similar to the telomerase delete response, genes whose expression changes during cellular senescence in telomerase-deficient cells. We propose that these results suggest, albeit indirectly, that old cells are responding to genome instability.
Study of CuO Nanoparticle-induced Cell Death by High Content Cellular Fluorescence Imaging and Analysis

To quantify cellular toxic responses to drug treatment or environmental stresses such as nanoparticles, a high throughput imaging modality with automated image analysis protocol is applied. Fluorescence images from human H4 neurogliomal cells exposed to different concentrations of CuO nanoparticles were collected by a high content fluorescence microscopy. A fully automated fluorescent cellular image analysis system has been developed for the consequential image analysis for cell viability. A data-driven background algorithm was used as adaptive multiple thresholding algorithm to categorize the cells into three classes: bright cells, dark cells, and background. Our image analysis approach includes: (1) the scale-space theory, namely Gaussian filtering with proper scale has been applied to the acquired images to generate local intensity maxima within each cell; (2) a novel method for defining local image intensity maxima based on the gradient vector field has been developed; and (3) a statistical model was proposed to overcome the problem of cell segmentation. Our data have shown that the automated image analysis protocol can achieve 90% success rate of cell detection compared to manual procedure. Cellular image analysis further indicated that H4 neuroglioma cells had a dose-dependent toxic response to the insult of CuO nanoparticles.
Silicon Micro-mechanics For Solid State Sensors

Since even before the first successful demonstration of the transistor in 1947, evolving semiconductor processing technology has lent itself well toward use in sensing of various physical phenomena. The first record of silicon used as a sensor was in 1940, when Robert Oh1 of Bell Labs discovered the photoelectric effect in silicon. In 1953, Philco was already using chemical micromachining to shape semiconductors. This paper explores the history of the semiconductor developments which have led to today's state of the art monolithic silicon sensors with on-chip self test, self calibration, and signal conditioning. These devices are part of the continuing evolution of smart monolithic sensors which have been and will continue to be made possible and economical by the continuing development of silicon manufacturing technology. Sensor Backaround There are two classes of silicon sensors considered here. The first utilizes only the electrical properties of silicon, and is included here primarily for reference. The second class of sensors utilizes the mechanical, and sometimes the electrical properties, and is the real subject of the discussion. Within each of these classes, there are several different sensing techniques (piezoresistive, capacitive, etc.), as well as various stimuli (pressure, acceleration, etc.) that may be sensed with each sensing technique. Silicon Sensors Utilizina Electrical ProDerties This class of sensors utilizes the Hall effect for measuring magnetic fields, and the band gap of silicon for measuring heat and light. Although they often utilize special layouts or modified manufacturing processes to enhance the sensitivity to the desired stimulus, these sensors historically have relied upon integrated circuit processing without further machining or mechanical enhancements. As such, they are typically very economically produced, and can inherently combine the functions of circuit and sensor, making them inexpensive and elegant solutions for many sensing and control problems.
Hermitian and Nonhermitian Boson Expansions Based on the Commutator Method

Mathematical aspects of the commutator method, which is one of the fashionable boson expansions methods, are investigated in great detail. We intend to obtain all the possible solutions of the equations for the expansion coefficients. We show first that infinitely many hermitian expansions, with complex coefficients, are possible, the real limit of one set of these complex solutions resulting in an expansion that coincides with that of Marumori, et al. We then show that nonhermitian expansions are also possible, having as an example those obtained earlier by Kishimoto and Tamura. We further demonstrate that all these results are equiva­ lent, in that all of them can be used to evaluate physically meaningful quantities correctly.
Optofluidic microscopy—a method for implementing a high resolution optical microscope on a chip

We report a novel microfluidics-based lensless imaging technique, termed optofluidic microscopy (OFM), and demonstrate Caenorhabditis elegans imaging with an OFM prototype that gives comparable resolution to a conventional microscope and a measured resolution limit of 490 +/- 40 nm.
The canvas and the color: Tocqueville's “philosophical history” and why it matters now

In December of 1850, exhausted by his role in French politics and recuperating from tuberculosis, Alexis de Tocqueville retreated to the Amalfi coast to think, write, and recover. To his best friend Louis de Kergolay, Tocqueville wrote about completing his memoir on the 1848 revolution and his plans to undertake a comprehensive account of French history that would explain the turmoil of the past century. The appeal was powerful, he explained to Kergolay, but “the difficulties are immense. The one that most troubles my mind comes from the mixture of history properly so called with historical philosophy. I still do not see how to mix these two things,” he conceded, “and yet, they must be mixed, for one could say that the first is the canvas and the second the color, and that it is necessary to have both at the same time in order to do the picture.” Tocqueville feared “that the one is harmful to the other, and that I lack the infinite art that would be necessary in order to choose properly the facts that must, so to speak, support the ideas.
Sex steroid hormones modulate responses to social challenge and opportunity in males of the monogamous convict cichlid, Amatitliana nigrofasciata

Steroid hormones play an important role in modulating behavioral responses to various social stimuli. It has been suggested that variation in the hormonal regulation of behavior across species is associated with social organization and/or mating system. In order to further elucidate the interplay of hormones and behavior in social situations, we exposed males of the monogamous convict cichlid Amatitliana nigrofasciata to three social stimuli: gravid female, intruder male, and a nonsocial stimulus. We used a repeated measure design to create behavioral profiles and explore how sex steroid hormones respond to and regulate social behavior. Results show distinct behavioral responses to different social situations, with circulating 11-ketotestosterone increasing in response to social stimuli. Pharmacological manipulations using specific androgen and estrogen receptor agonists and antagonists exposed complex control over digging behavior in the social opportunity context. In the social challenge context, aggressive behaviors decreased in response to blocking the androgen receptor pathway. Our results extend our understanding of sex steroid regulation of behavioral responses to social stimulation.
Soleus, plantaris and gastrocnemius VEGF mRNA responses to hypoxia and exercise are preserved in aged compared with young female C57BL/6 mice

Aims: In humans, skeletal muscle capillarization and the vascular endot- helial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA response to acute exercise are lower in aged compared with young. The exercise-induced increase in VEGF mRNA has been proposed to involve hypoxic regulation of VEGF and is believed to be fibre type-dependent. We hypothesized that attenuated VEGF mRNA responses to hypoxia and exercise with advanced age would be greatest in oxidative vs. glycolytic muscles. Methods: 3- and 24-month-old female C57BL/6 mice were exposed to acute hypoxia (FIO2 ¼ 0.06) or performed a single exercise (65% of maximum treadmill running speed) bout. Capillarization and VEGF mRNA wereanalysed in the soleus, plantaris and gastrocnemius muscles.Results: In each muscle, VEGF mRNA was greater in aged compared with young, while the VEGF mRNA response to acute hypoxia or acute exercise was similar between young and aged. Morphological analysis revealed that type IIA fibre percentage and type IIB capillarization in the plantaris were greater and type IIB fibre cross-sectional area (FCSA) in the gastrocnemius was smaller in aged compared with young.Conclusions: These findings suggest that ageing does not impair the potential for non-pathological angiogenesis in mice and that acute exercise increases VEGF mRNA in the soleus, plantaris and gastrocnemius muscles, which differ considerably in fibre type percentage.
Effects of Parental Presence during Children's Venipuncture

OBJECTIVE To determine whether parental presence during venipuncture (VP) altered self-reported distress of the child, the parent, or the health professional (HP) performing VP. METHODS During nine consecutive months, 130 nonconsecutive 8-18-year-old children having VP in an urban pediatric ED were prospectively randomized into two groups of 65 patients each. Before VP, every child, parent, and HP completed a questionnaire developed to measure epidemiologic variables believed to influence distress during VP. The patients were randomized to have either a parent present or both parents absent during VP. The patients, the parents, and the HPs privately self-reported their distress during VP on a visual analog scale (VAS). Statistical significance was determined by the Mann-Whitney U (rank-sum) test. RESULTS In the parent-present group, distress scores were lower for the parent (p < 0.01) and for the child (p < 0.04) than they were in the parents-absent group. The HP performing VP had no difference in distress scores with and without parental presence (p < 0.55). CONCLUSIONS Parents and children having VP have less distress with parental presence. Health professional distress is not affected by parental presence.
Effects of recent population bottlenecks on reconstructing the demographic history of prairie-chickens.

Current methods of DNA sequence analysis attempt to reconstruct historical patterns of population structure and growth from contemporary samples. However, these techniques may be influenced by recent population bottlenecks, which have the potential to eliminate lineages that reveal past changes in demography. One way to examine the performance of these demographic methods is to compare samples from populations before and after recent bottlenecks. We compared estimates of demographic history from populations of greater prairie-chickens ( Tympanuchus cupido ) before and after recent bottlenecks using four common methods (nested clade analysis [NCA], Tajima’s D , mismatch distribution, and MDIV ). We found that NCA did not perform well in the presence of bottleneck events, although it did recover some genetic signals associated with increased isolation and the extinction of intermediate populations. The majority of estimates for Tajima’s D , including those from bottlenecked populations, were not significantly different from zero, suggesting our data conformed to neutral expectations. In contrast, mismatch distributions including the raggedness index were more likely to identify recently bottlenecked populations with this data set. Estimates of population mutation rate (θ ), population divergence time ( t ), and time to the most recent common ancestor (TMRCA) from MDIV were similar before and after bottlenecks; however, estimates of gene flow ( M ) were significantly lower in a few cases following a bottleneck. These results suggest that caution should be used when assessing demographic history from contemporary data sets, as recently fragmented and bottlenecked populations may have lost lineages that affect inferences of their demographic history.
Expression, purification, kinetic, and structural characterization of an α-class carbonic anhydrase from Aedes aegypti (AaCA1)

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) are zinc-containing metalloenzymes that catalyze the interconversion of carbon dioxide and bicarbonate. The α-class CAs are found predominantly in vertebrates, but they are also expressed in insects like mosquitoes. Recently, an α-CA from the midgut of Aedes aegypti larvae (AaCA1) was identified, cloned, and subsequently shown to share high sequence homologous to human CA I (HCA I). This paper presents the bacterial expression, purification, and kinetic characterization of the soluble CA domain of AaCA1. The data show AaCA1 is a highly active CA that displays inhibition by methazolamide and ethoxzolamide with nM affinity. Additionally, a homology model of AaCA1, based on the crystal structure of HCA I, is presented and the overall structure, active site, and surface charge properties are compared to those of HCA I and II. Measurements of catalysis show that AaCA1 is more like HCA II in terms of proton transfer, but more similar to HCA I in terms of conversion of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate, and these differences are rationalized in terms of structure. These results also indicate that amino acid differences in the active site of AaCA1 compared to human CAs could be used to design specific CA inhibitors for the management of mosquito populations.
Right Colon Interposition for Esophageal Replacement

Considerations in Right Colon Interposition Physiology A capcious cecum and ascending colon receive the entire small bowel effluent. Retrograde annular contractions cause rhythmic antiperistaltic mixing in the right colon and aid in the absorption of fluids and electrolytes. These characteristics maximize right colonic function but may minimize its effectiveness as an esophageal substitute. Because the bulk of the right colon is unwieldy, it is difficult to fit into the path of reconstruction. To facilitate the right colon as an esophageal substitute, some surgeons incorporate the terminal ileum in right colon interpositions (particularly in children). This results in a better size match between the esophagus and terminal ileum and allows the terminal ileum to fit comfortably in the reconstruction field. An end-to-end anastamosis can be carried out. Motility is maintained in the ileal portion of right colon interpositions; however, there is no relationship between the motor activities of the ileum, and right colon and preservation of ileal peristalsis does not result in improved swallowing.2 The potential of the ileocecal valve to prevent reflux of colonic and upper gastrointestinal contents into the cervical esophagus is a potential benefit3; however, the ileal cecal valve may be detrimental to swallowing. Its in situ role of slowing the transit of liquid ileal contents to aid absorption is unnecessary in the cervical esophagus. Exclusion of the ileocecal valve by side-to-side ileocecoplasty straightens the conduit, reduces cecal bulk, and eliminates possible obstruction at the ileocecal valve.4 Revisions of right colon interpositions due to a tight ileocecal valve or ischemic stricture have been r e p ~ r t e d . ~ The use of segments of terminal ileum longer than 10 cm is responsible for B12 deficiencies in children.6 Chiidren are also susceptible to anemia with suppressed serum iron concentrations and growth retardation unrelated to the use of terminal ileum. Despite an active retrograde motility in situ, the c.olon functions as a passive conduit that empties much more slowly than the normal wophagus when used as an esophageal replacement. Transit through colon replacements is mainly dependent on gravity. Segmental contraction gives the appearance of peristalsis, but only occasionally are colonic contractions propulsive. Despite this predominate retrograde churning and mixing motion, isoperistaltic right colon grafts are favored because of vascular considerations and reports nf painful contractions or poor function in antiperistaltic colon interpositions.' '
Effects of High-Hydrostatic Pressure on Inactivation of Human Norovirus and Physical and Sensory Characteristics of Oysters.

The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of high-hydrostatic pressure (HHP) on inactivation of human norovirus (HuNoV) in oysters and to evaluate organoleptic characteristics of oysters treated at pressure levels required for HuNoV inactivation. Genogroup I.1 (GI.1) or Genogroup II.4 (GII.4) HuNoV was inoculated into oysters and treated at 300 to 600 MPa at 25 and 0 °C for 2 min. After HHP, viral particles were extracted by porcine gastric mucin-conjugated magnetic beads (PGM-MBs) and viral RNA was quantified by real-time RT-PCR. Lower initial temperature (0 °C) significantly enhanced HHP inactivation of HuNoV compared to ambient temperature (25 °C; P 0.05).
Ubiquitylation as a Rheostat for TCR Signaling: From Targeted Approaches Toward Global Profiling.

Abstract T cell receptor (TCR) signaling must be precisely tuned to limit collateral damage and prevent reactivity to self, while still allowing robust protective immune responses that control pathogen invasion. One process that can be used to promote, modify or terminate TCR signaling is ubiquitylation. During ubiquitylation, ubiquitin is covalently attached to target proteins through a multistep process, in which E3 ubiquitin ligases promote the formation of ubiquitin chains on selected substrates. Ubiquitylation can facilitate protein-protein interactions, direct a protein to a specific subcellular location, or initiate protein destruction. Like phosphorylation, ubiquitylation is a reversible process—deubiquitylating enzymes counter-act ligase function by removing ubiquitin chains. This reversibility also allows for ubiquitin chain “editing.” Based on an emerging wealth of information from genetic loss-of-function studies showing that deregulation of ubiquitylation pathways leads to immune dysfunction, it has become increasingly apparent that the dynamic process of ubiquitylation is critical for normal immune cell function. In this review, we will describe how ubiquitylation acts as a key modulator and integrator of signaling downstream of TCR engagement. Specifically, we highlight the known roles of the substrate-specific E3 ligases and deubiquitylating enzymes in TCR signaling and T cell activation. While it is clear that ubiquitin enzymes tune T cell signaling and T cell function, elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which these proteins modulate T cells has met with significant challenges. Identifying substrates of these enzymes has been a particular challenge, and thus substrates of many E3 ligases and deubiquitylating enzymes remain largely unknown. To that end, we discuss the promise, and some practical considerations, of using proteomics-based techniques for unbiased identification of putative substrates of ubiquitin cascade proteins within primary T cells. These methods provide an exciting opportunity for further defining how TCR signals are regulated and for identifying new targets for therapeutic modulation.
Two Appreciations: A Couples Therapy Intervention to Enhance Intimacy and Relational Satisfaction

When couples come into therapy, they often come focused on the shortcomings and deficits in the partner, making it increasingly difficult to acknowledge the satisfying aspects and behaviors of the ...
Comparison of MPEG-2 and M-JPEG Video Coding at Low Bit Rates

In this paper a comparative analysis of MPEG-2 and Motion-JPEG (M-JPEG) video coding is given, and the performance of these methods is compared via experiments. At first, the algorithmic differences are discussed, then results of the experiments are shown for various video sources with different image sizes and frame rates; the bit rates ranged from 1 to 8 Mbits/sec. The results also show that MPEG-2 intraframe only (I-only) and intra- and predictive-frame (IP) encoding achieve higher picture quality at the same bit rate, or equivalent picture quality at a lower bit rate, than M-JPEG. This quantitative comparison as well as the subjective picture quality evaluation can trigger the use of MPEG-2 video coding instead of M-JPEG at low bit rates.
Particle Filter Based Inversion of Nonlinear Satcom Channels

Bidirectional satellite communication between earth terminals on the same frequency at the same time is an emerging means of doubling spectral efficiency on satellite channels. With a linear satellite repeater, cancellation of self-interference can be done with standard echo cancelling methods. However, satellite amplifiers are normally operated in a highly-nonlinear regime, for maximum power output, and this complicates the interference removal process. This paper studies a particle filter based algorithm for 'inverting' the nonlinearity at the receiving terminal, making the resulting channel roughly linear, so echo cancelation again becomes attractive. The particle filtering approach approximates the MMSE estimate of the input signal, given the output sequence. This output sequence is followed by a matched filter and an adaptive echo canceller to remove the co-channel interference.
The Rise and Decline of the American Asylum Movement in the 19th Century

This paper traces the history of the American public asylum from the 1840s through the late 19th century. The focus is on social factors that contributed to the establishment of public institutions at the urging of reformers, the attempts to model them on the architecture and "moral treatment" offered by the best private institutions, the crowding of the asylums, the growing criticism aimed at the asylums and their superintendents, and the effects of calls for other approaches and for scientific management. Knowledge of the asylum's history may be useful today, as we stand at the crossroads in the treatment of the mentally ill.