cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Antixenosis and Antibiosis as Mechanisms of Resistance in Rice to the Rice Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Five rice lines (8721941, 8723463, 8723518, 8725417, 8725454) were evaluated in the greenhouse in 1991 and 1992 for resistance to the rice water weevil, Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus Kuschel. These lines were selected from a preliminary field evaluation of 40 Louisiana rice breeding lines in 1990, based on low rice water weevil larval populations on roots. Resistance was assessed using the total larval population associated with the root system of each line. Significant (P < 0.05) differences were found among the lines tested with regard to rice water weevil larval populations during both years. Lines 8723518, 8725417, and 8725454 had significantly (P < 0.05) lower numbers of rice water weevil larvae than the susceptible check cultivar (Mars), indicating that they contain resistance to the rice water weevil.
REAL ID: A State-by-State Update

In 2005, Congress passed a law seeking to create a national identification (ID) system by weaving together the states’ driver-licensing systems. According to the federal government’s plan, within three years state motor-vehicle bureaus would begin issuing driver’s licenses and identification cards according to federal standards, and data about drivers would be shared among governments nationwide.States across the country rejected this unfunded federal surveillance mandate. Half the state legislatures in the country passed resolutions objecting to the REAL ID Act or bills outright barring their states from complying. Almost a decade later, there is no national ID, but Congress continues to funnel money into the federal government’s national ID project. The federal government has spent more than a quarter billion dollars on REAL ID.Although REAL ID is moribund, a state-by-state review reveals that some states’ legislatures have backtracked on their opposition to the national ID law, and in some states motor vehicle bureaus are quietly moving forward with REAL ID compliance — contrary to state policy. Surprisingly, in some states, motor vehicle bureaucrats are working to undercut state policy opposing REAL ID and the national ID system.If the United States is to avoid having a national ID, all states should cease implementation of REAL ID, the federal government should stop funding REAL ID efforts, and Congress should repeal this unwanted national ID law.
Comparison of fusion cross sections for 12C+12C → 24Mg and 14N+10B → 24Mg

Abstract The total fusion cross sections have been measured and compared for two light systems, 12 C + 12 C and 14 N + 10 B, leading to the same compound nucleus at the same excitation energies, E ∗ ( 24 Mg ) = 40, 50, 55 and 60 MeV . The critical angular momenta extracted for the formation of 24 Mg via 12 C + 12 C and 1 14 N + 10 B are different enough to clearly indicate the presence of an entrance channel effect (limitation). The Z -distributions of the evaporation residues are compared to each other and to Hauser-Feshbach calculations. The data are also fitted with and compared to theoretical models which predict total fusion cross sections.
Disclosure as an Imperfect Means for Addressing Overindebtedness: An Empirical Assessment of Comparative Approaches

Within a generation, household overindebtedness has grown to become a social problem of significant proportion in the US, the UK, and around the world. Public policy makers on both sides of the Atlantic have taken initial steps to ameliorate excessive and unwise use of consumer credit, by reforming the procedures for settling and collecting defaulted consumer debt (including the procedures available under consumer bankruptcy law) and by providing enhanced disclosure and other protections to borrowers. We focus on credit card disclosure reforms in this paper and note that empirical research (ours and others) suggest that enhanced disclosure requirements are, at best, an incomplete mechanism for tackling the problem of overindebtedness. Enhanced disclosure presumes a rational actor model of consumer decisionmaking. In earlier articles, both together and with other co-authors, we have argued that extant data do not support fundamental assumptions underlying a strong version of the rational actor model of consumer credit but do support models that view consumer borrowers as quasi-rational, emotional actors. Research supporting a behavioral, emotional model of consumer decisionmaking undercuts enhanced disclosure as a remedy for increased consumer debt loads. This article proceeds in four parts: Part I compares household indebtedness - and measures of overindebtedness - in the US and UK. Part II looks at recent legislative responses to this problem, and concludes that the US approach is premised on a rational actor model of consumer decisionmaking, while the UK presumes a consumer in need of regulatory protection, enhanced information and debt advice. In Part III, we describe our most recent experimental work and its results, and reach similar conclusions about the likelihood that enhanced disclosure will quell the problem of overindebtedness. Part IV draws tentative conclusions for future research intended to study overindebtedness.
Advanced Ceramics Processing

Processing of ceramics is carried out through the consolidation of loose powdersto form polycrystalline objects. The majority of ceramics are sintered, usingsolid-state sintering or liquid-phase sintering [See, e.g., Rahaman (1995),Barsoum (1997)]. Generally, sintering occurs at temperatures below the meltingpoint for single-phase ceramics or below their liquidus for multiphase ceramics,although a liquid phase may be present temporarily during sintering. The dis-tinction that sets the majority of ceramics apart from the minority is the fact thatthe majority is sintered below the melting temperature by solid-state transport.The minority are those processed above the melting temperature, in particular,glasses and glass-ceramics. Therefore, the key to successful processing of ce-ramics is ﬁnding energy sources that can drive the transport processes.In most cases, the source of energy is surface energy. The elimination ofsurface energy, where surfaces of loose powders are converted to grain bound-aries between particles, is what accounts for most of the energy available forsintering. There are countless examples of ceramic products where the conver-sion of this energy has resulted in a successful outcome. Nevertheless, there canalways be improvements in ceramic processing. Therefore, the focus of thischapter is on new sources of energy to drive the consolidation and better, moreefﬁcient uses of this energy to reach the goal of a well-consolidated, polycrys-talline ceramic.
Relative Cosolute Size Influences the Kinetics of Protein-Protein Interactions

Protein signaling occurs in crowded intracellular environments, and while high concentrations of macromolecules are postulated to modulate protein-protein interactions, analysis of their impact at each step of the reaction pathway has not been systematically addressed. Potential cosolute-induced alterations in target association are particularly important for a signaling molecule like calmodulin (CaM), where competition among >300 targets governs which pathways are selectively activated. To explore how high concentrations of cosolutes influence CaM-target affinity and kinetics, we methodically investigated each step of the CaM-target binding mechanism under crowded or osmolyte-rich environments mimicked by ficoll-70, dextran-10, and sucrose. All cosolutes stabilized compact conformers of CaM and modulated association kinetics by affecting diffusion and rates of conformational change; however, the results showed that differently sized molecules had variable effects to enhance or impede unique steps of the association pathway. On- and off-rates were modulated by all cosolutes in a compensatory fashion, producing little change in steady-state affinity. From this work insights were gained on how high concentrations of inert crowding agents and osmolytes fit into a kinetic framework to describe protein-protein interactions relevant for cellular signaling.
Association Between Bottle Size and Formula Intake in 2-Month-Old Infants

Abstract Objective To determine range of bottle sizes used and examine the relationship between bottle size and total daily consumption of infant formula. Methods Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data collected as part of Greenlight, a cluster randomized trial to prevent childhood obesity at 4 pediatric resident clinics. The Greenlight study included healthy, term infants. For our analysis, parents of exclusively formula-fed infants reported volume per feed, number of feeds per day, and bottle size, which was dichotomized into small ( Results Of 865 participants in the Greenlight study, 44% (n = 378; 21.8% white, 40.6% black, 35.3% Hispanic, 2.4% other) of infants were exclusively formula fed at 2 months. Median volume per day was 30 oz (interquartile range 12), and 46.0% of infants were fed with large bottles. Adjusted for covariates, parents using larger bottles reported feeding 4 oz more formula per day (34.2 oz, 95% confidence interval 33.5–34.9 vs 29.7 oz, 95% confidence interval 29.2–30.3, P = .03). Conclusions Among exclusively formula-fed infants, use of a larger bottle is associated with parental report of more formula intake compared to infants fed with smaller bottles. If infants fed with larger bottles receive more formula, these infants may be overfed and consequently at risk for obesity.
Synoptic activity associated with sea ice variability in the Arctic

Relationships between synoptic activity and sea ice variability in the Arctic are studied using self-organizing maps (SOMs) to categorize observed weather patterns over the 1979–2013 period. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Re-Analysis Interim provides the daily averaged sea level pressures from which the SOMs are computed. Time series of frequencies and durations of synoptic weather patterns are correlated with two sea ice metrics, Fram Strait ice outflow and year-to-year changes in September pan-Arctic sea ice extent. When compared to climate indices commonly used to predict sea ice, the Arctic Oscillation, North Atlantic Oscillation, and Arctic Dipole, some SOM patterns correlate as or more strongly with sea ice metrics. For example, Beaufort High synoptic patterns are increasing in frequency in spring and their summer frequencies are associated with ice loss. Arctic high-pressure patterns are linked to ice loss through pressure gradients conducive to ice export. The phase lags between the SOM occurrences and sea ice variability offer the potential for augmentation of other approaches to seasonal sea ice prediction.
Effect of insulin on the phosphorylation of adipose tissue protein.

Abstract Although insulin has profound metabolic effects, only some of these may be explained by modulation of adenosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic AMP) levels. Therefore, the effects of insulin on fat cell protein metabolism were studied under conditions which are not associated with changes in cyclic AMP levels. Both rat epididymal fat pad and isolated fat cells were used to study insulin-induced [ 32 P]orthophosphate or [ 35 S]methionine incorporation into sodium dodecyl sulfate-soluble proteins and/or polypeptides isolated by acrylamide slab gel electrophoresis and high resolution autoradiography. Insulin specifically increased the incorporation of [ 32 P]orthophosphate into a high molecular weight protein (about 140 000 mol.wt). This phosphorylation occurred: (1) in both fat pads and isolated fat cells; (2) at physiological insulin concentrations (40 μunits/ml); (3) within 15 min after insulin addition; (4) in the absence of glucose; and (5) was partially antagonized by epinephrine (10 −5 M). Thus, physiological insulin concentrations specifically induced the in vitro phosphorylation of a high molecular weight protein, in a manner consistent with the physiological action of insulin in vivo, and under conditions not associated with changes in cyclic AMP levels.
Beijing inundated by the sea within the past 80 k.y.: Nannofossil evidence

Examination of published data reveals that a marine bed in Beijing can be dated as 80 ka or younger on the basis of abundant nannofossils. This age is ∼30 times younger than that published previously on the basis of magnetostratigraphic and biostratigraphic interpretations. The abundant nannofossils and foraminifers suggest that Beijing was inundated by the sea within the past 80 k.y. The very recent nature of this marine transgression has profound societal and geological implications and thus calls for new studies and thorough evaluation of all relevant data sets.
The relationship between Type A Behaviour Pattern (TABP) and in-basket performance: recognition as moderator

Abstract The relationship between Type A Behaviour Pattern (TABP) and performance on an in-basket task was examined. Some of the subjects (n=40) were told that they would be recognized for superior performance, while others (n=22) were not given this information. Results indicated no relationship between a global TABP measure and all the measures of in-basket performance. Achievement Strivings (AS), a component of TABP, was positively related to overall effort, overall quality of performance, and interpersonal sensitivity. None of these relations was moderated by recognition. However, it was found that the relation between AS and use of delegation was moderated by recognition. AS was strongly and negatively related to delegation only among those who were told they would be recognized for superior performance. Impatience-Irritability (I–I), another component of TABP, was unrelated to measures of in-basket performance, although the relation between I–I and interpersonal sensitivity was moderated by recognit...
Selective recharge and isotopic composition of shallow groundwater within temperate, epigenic carbonate aquifers

Summary This paper considers the variation of δ18O and δ2H (VSMOW) in precipitation and shallow groundwater from carbonate aquifers that lend insight into the source and timing of recharge within temperate, epigenic karst. The shallow groundwater collected during 2010 and 2011 at Stream Cave (SC) and Natural Bridge Caverns (NBC) represent one input to and the primary output from the Redmond Creek karst aquifer in the Cumberland Plateau of southeast Kentucky, respectively. These data are compared with the isotopic composition of concurrent samples of precipitation from the same watershed that covers some 1900 ha. Values of δ18O and δ2H at SC and NBC are statistically similar and cluster at the midpoint of the local meteoric water line. These values remain surprisingly constant despite seasonal changes in temperature regimens and discharge. Samples in 2012 from regional springs that include Redmond Creek are more depleted in the heavier isotope and similarly stable despite coming from aquifers of a range of sizes and physical characteristics. Applying a Priestly–Taylor model for daily values of potential evapotranspiration, only 43% of the 1.10 m of precipitation in the 2010–2011 dataset remains as potential recharge, primarily during cooler months with lower solar insolation. Weighting δ18O and δ2H values of precipitation by potential recharge creates a better match with the isotopic composition of shallow groundwater than by weighting by precipitation amount. The isotopic composition and deuterium excess of precipitation samples are directly and inversely proportional to temperature, respectively. Deuterium excess in this study and displays intra- and inter-annual variation that ranges from a minimum of +11.1‰ to a maximum of +29.5‰ that demonstrate the higher-than-average deuterium excess in greater Appalachia and the shifting latitude of moisture sources, including a significant winter component of re-evaporated, continental moisture.
Modeling Conditional Covariances With Economic Information Instruments

We propose a new model for conditional covariances based on predetermined idiosyncratic shocks as well as macroeconomic and own information instruments. The specification ensures positive definiteness by construction, is unique within the class of linear functions for our covariance decomposition, and yields a simple yet rich model of covariances. We introduce a property, invariance to variate order, that assures estimation is not impacted by a simple reordering of the variates in the system. Simulation results using realized covariances show smaller mean absolute errors (MAE) and root mean square errors (RMSE) for every element of the covariance matrix relative to a comparably specified BEKK model with own information instruments. We also find a smaller mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and root mean square percentage error (RMSPE) for the entire covariance matrix. Supplementary materials for practitioners as well as all Matlab code used in the article are available online.
Permissive Hypercapnia in the Management of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Our Institutional Experience

Background Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a potentially lethal anomaly associated with pulmonary hypoplasia and persistent pulmonary hypertension. Permissive hypercapnia is a strategy designed to reduce lung injury from mechanical ventilation in infants. It has been shown to be a potentially superior method of ventilator management for patients with CDH. In 2001, the Divisions of Neonatology and Pediatric Surgery at the University of Virginia Children's Hospital established permissive hypercapnia as the management strategy for treatment of CDH. We hypothesized that permissive hypercapnia would be associated with improved outcomes in this patient population. Study Design This retrospective review compares outcomes of infants treated for CDH in the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) era before and after initiation of permissive hypercapnia at a single institution. Outcomes were compared using univariate statistical analysis. Results Ninety-one patients were available for analysis and were divided into 2 groups: 42 (Group 1) treated before and 49 (Group 2) treated after implementation of permissive hypercapnia. Survival was higher in Group 2 (85.8% vs 54.8%; p=0.001; relative risk [RR] 3.17). Morbidity was lower in Group 2 and approached statistical significance (65.3% vs 83.3%; p=0.052). Patients in Group 2 were repaired later, had a lower rate of ECMO use, and were extubated earlier. There was no difference in hospital stay. Conclusions The use of permissive hypercapnia for infants with CDH was associated with decreased mortality, a longer period of ventilation before repair with a shorter period of ventilation after repair, a lower rate of ECMO use, and no lengthening of hospital stay. Permissive hypercapnia remains the standard of care for ventilation of infants with CDH at our institution.
Where are we going with computer-assisted or robotic cardiac surgery? A piece of the totally endoscopic coronary bypass puzzle

S everal years ago, a few cardiac surgeons who also performed general thorascopic surgery dreamed about a totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) technique. The concept of a totally endoscopic CABG technique (or e-CABG) was based on thorascopic principles. This became a challenge and goal for some researchers and for some in the medical industry. The proposed advantage to e-CABG was no different from the advantage of general thoracoscopy over open techniques—to decrease the trauma of the operation and therefore decrease the morbidity related to conventional transthoracic access of the heart and aorta. It was postulated that endoscopic beating heart and left internal thoracic artery (LITA) to left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery bypass could provide a durable, truly minimally invasive bypass procedure that would likely be superior in the long term to current interventional approaches to the diseased LAD. Experimentation and clinical experience with modifications of general thorascopic techniques proved that the LITA could routinely be mobilized thoracoscopically, but that standard thorascopic instruments were inadequate for any usual or customary anastomotic technique.1-3 It became clear that the endoscopically performed anastomosis was a great challenge in completing e-CABG. The solution to this endoscopic anastomotic dilemma centered around three new (to cardiac surgeons) technologies: robotics, automatic distal anastomotic devices, and sealants. The first anastomotic technology to be tested clinically to any great extent has been robotics, which is really computer-assisted technology. The robot is not autonomous. The essence of this robotic technology in cardiac surgery is that for the first time the surgeon’s hand motions are captured and transformed into a binary code, allowing computers to modify the signals and transmit the signals to tiny instruments inside the chest cavity. This is triumph of technology in the operating room. The fine motor control of the surgeon’s hand is transmitted to tiny instruments that can now facilitate an endoscopic anastomosis. The control is so perfect that cardiac surgeons are able to construct an anastomosis in the customary fashion without placing a hand inside the chest cavity. Indeed, the surgeon is not scrubbed, but sits comfortably at a console, peering into the chest with 3-dimensional vision. The work of Dogan and associates4 is important for two reasons. Their study From Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
Supplier relational behavior: An empirical assessment

Abstract This study examines relational behavior in business markets, focusing specifically on the extent to which relational behavior by suppliers influences the quality of their relationships with buyers as well as their sales performance with those buyers. Findings from a study involving 454 organizations suggest that several relational behaviors have a significant influence on relationship quality, and that relationship quality, in turn, has a significant influence on the share of business enjoyed by suppliers. Interestingly, the effects of both relational behavior and relationship quality depend on the age of the buyer-supplier relationship as well as the importance of the supplier's offering.
Imaging the breast with EIS: an initial study of exam consistency

Use of electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to image the breasts of women with both normal and abnormal conditions requires the ability to deliver a consistent and repeatable exam. To investigate the degree to which our current imaging system can meet this requirement we conducted an initial study of exam consistency. The trial involved the imaging of 25 breasts stratified into four separate substudies with increasing levels of electrode placement uncertainty. The degree of complexity ranged from single-placement single-session imaging to multiple-placement single-session imaging to multiple-placement multiple-session imaging. Both visual analysis and quantitative comparisons using mean squared difference (MSD) measures between pairs of permittivity and conductivity images were performed. A new breast interface with the improved vertical and radial electrode array positioning capability required to complete this study is described. Not surprisingly, the results show a dominant trend of increased image variability with increased electrode placement uncertainty. Importantly, quantitative levels of image consistency are reported through MSD analysis. On average across all frequencies analysed, MSDs for single placements are well below 1%, near 2-3% for repositioned breasts during the same session and approximately 15% for re-examined breasts in multiple sessions conducted over time. Overall, these results suggest that EIS breast exams are consistent provided the electrode placement is well controlled, typically with better than 1 cm accuracy.
Plato’s Ghost: Spiritualism in the American Renaissance, by Cathy Gutierrez, Oxford University Press: New York, 2009, 218 pp. ISBN 978 0 19 538835 0, US$55 (cloth)

Plato's Ghost: Spiritualism in the American Renaissance , by Cathy Gutierrez, Oxford University Press: New York, 2009, 218 pp. ISBN 978 0 19 538835 0, US$55 (cloth) In Plato's Ghost, Cathy Gutierre...
A mathematical study of volume shifts and ionic concentration changes during ischemia and hypoxia.

Abstract The response of tissue to ischemia (cessation of blood flow and deprivation of oxygen) includes swelling of the intracellular space, shrinkage of the extracellular space, and an increase in the extracellular potassium concentration. The responses of cardiac and brain tissue to ischemia are qualitatively different in that cardiac tissue shows a rise in extracellular potassium over several minutes from about 5 to 10–12 mM followed by a plateau, while brain tissue shows a similar initial rise followed by a very rapid increase in extracellular potassium to levels of 50–80 mM. During hypoxia the flow of blood (or perfusate) is maintained and, while there is a substantial efflux of potassium from cells, there is little accumulation of potassium in the interstitium. A mathematical model is proposed and studied to try to elucidate the mechanism(s) underlying the increase in extracellular potassium, and the different time courses seen in neural and cardiac tissue. The model involves a Hodgkin–Huxley-type description of transmembrane ion currents, allows for ion concentrations as well as volumes to change for both the intracellular and extracellular space, and includes coupling of damaged tissue to nearby healthy tissue. The model produces a response to ischemia much like that seen in neural tissue, and the mechanism underlying this response in the model is determined. The same mechanism is not present in cardiac ion models, and this may explain the qualitative difference in response shown in cardiac tissue.
Feldspars of the Tunnel City Group (Cambrian), western Wisconsin

ABSTRACT Sandstones of the Tunnel City Group, Cambrian, cropping out in Western Wisconsin, contain beds rich in grains of feldspar of generally euhedral outline. Each grain consists of a rounded core. regarded as a detrital fragment from a crystalline provenance, surrounded by a neoformed part of up to 15 % of the grain volume. Analyses of the cores show them to be unzoned, non-perthitic, maximum microclines of remarkably uniform composition averaging Or93Ab6Cn1. Such a composition of low sodium in the cores, as well as in the associated minerals, suggest alteration of feldspars to have occurred before final deposition and certainly preceding crystallization of overgrowths. Overgrowths virtually are endmember potassium feldspar structurally intermediate between adularia and orthoclase. Their habit is similar to that of orthoclase except that {100} pinacoids are developed rather than the common {110} prisms. Various ridges of wedge-like cross section cover the surfaces, and characterize {101}. Such ridges are interpreted as growth interference of new {100} and {001} faces when normal development of {101} was terminated by some unknown event. Physical conditions at the time of authigenesis are regarded as being near 25°C, and pore pressures considerably lower than 100 atm. Overgrowths on feldspars preceded dolomite cementation and are believed to have crystallized from pore waters which initially were of seawater composition. Later these solutions were enriched in alumina, potassium and silica by a process suggested as partial dissolution of unstable detrital feldspars. The concentration increased until supersaturation with respect to microcline prevailed. From this solution a potassium feldspar structurally intermediate between adularia and orthoclase was crystallized on the nuclei of microcline grains.
Version 2000: the new β-lactamases of Gram-negative bacteria at the dawn of the new millennium

β-lactamases of Gram-negative bacteria are evolving dynamically. New developments include the production of enzymes with novel substrate profiles, reduced susceptibility to β-lactamase inhibitors, and the simultaneous production of multiple types of β-lactamases. The changes represent evolutionary upgrades which provide modern pathogens with a greater potential to resist β-lactam antibiotics and cause formidable therapeutic, infection control, and diagnostic challenges. This review is a clinically oriented outline of recent developments in the β-lactamase production of Gram-negative bacteria.
A smugglers paradise: Cocaine trafficking through the Bahamas

During the last two decades The Bahamas have come to assume a central role in the transhipment of illicit drugs into the United States. This has occurred concomitantly with the dramatic development and escalation of the War on Drugs by the U.S. government. The author investigates the reasons why the United States has done so little to curb the blatant participation of this tiny island nation in these drug activities, while going so far as to invade Panama in order to remove Manuel Noriega from power, allegedly over his drug-related actions. The answers may be found, it is argued, in traditional fears of communist expansion in the Western Hemisphere, leading to the militarization of the region in the name of the War on Drugs.
The world is still round – like a soccer ball: redefining global strategy

Purpose – The paper aims to look at the sustained differences among countries in devising and evaluating marketing strategies.Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses the example of football to illustrate this view of globalization.Findings – The paper finds that border‐crossing businesses need to pay more attention to the sustained differences among countries in devising and evaluating strategies.Originality/value – The paper offers interesting views on the development of globalized marketing strategies.
The effect of patient position and treatment technique in conformal treatment of prostate cancer

Abstract Purpose: The relative value of prone versus supine positioning and axial versus nonaxial beam arrangements in the treatment of prostate cancer remains controversial. Two critical issues in comparing techniques are: 1) dose to critical normal tissues, and 2) prostate stabilization. Methods and Materials: Ten patients underwent pretreatment CT scans in one supine and two prone positions (flat and angled). To evaluate normal tissue exposure, prostate/seminal vesicle volumes or prostate volumes were expanded 8 mm and covered by the 95% isodose surface by both 6-field axial and 4-field nonaxial techniques. A total of 280 dose–volume histograms (DVHs) were analyzed to evaluate dose to rectal wall and bladder relative to patient position and beam arrangement. A CT scan was repeated in each patient after 5 weeks of treatment. Prostate motion was assessed by comparing early to late scans by three methods: 1) center of mass shift, 2) superior pubic symphysis to anterior prostate distance, and 3) deviation of the posterior surface of the prostate. Results: For prostate (P) or prostate/seminal vesicle (P/SV) treatments, prone flat was advantageous or equivalent to other positions with regard to rectal sparing. The mechanism of rectal sparing in the prone position may be related to a paradoxical retraction of the rectum against the sacrum, away from the P/SV. Although there was no clear overall preference for beam arrangement, substantial improvements in rectal sparing could be realized for individual patients. In this limited number of patients, there was no convincing evidence prostate position was stabilized by prone relative to supine position. Conclusions: Prone flat positioning was advantageous over other positions and beam arrangements in rectal sparing. This study suggests that patient position is a more critical a factor in conformal therapy than beam arrangement, and may improve the safety of dose escalation.
A Thermomechanical Model for Energetic Materials with Phase Transformations

A model is developed to describe energetic materials with phase transformations from solid to liquid to gas with an exothermic chemical reaction. The model uses a phase variable and a reaction progress variable as thermodynamically independent state variables. A configurational force balance is used to derive an evolution law for the phase variable. The evolution equation for the reaction progress variable is posed as a basic law. In various limits the material is a classical elastic solid, a Newtonian viscous liquid, and a compressible gas. The model is examined in relation to classical equilibrium thermodynamics in a quasi-static limit. The model formulation is specialized to simple motions which are analyzed in a companion paper.
Thrombolytic therapy for cerebral infarction.

Until recently, no clinically effective therapy for acute ischemic stroke has been available. Recent advances in the use of thrombolytic therapy for ischemic stroke appear promising in clinical care. As the use of thrombolytic therapy in acute stroke progresses, emergency physicians (EPs) will become increasingly involved in its implementation. The EP must be cognizant of both prior and ongoing investigations in acute ischemic stroke therapy. To that end, this article reviews research in the field of thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke.
Teaching developer skills in the first software engineering course

Both employers and graduate schools expect computer science graduates to be able to work as developers on software projects. Software engineering courses present the opportunity in the curriculum to learn the relevant skills. This paper presents our experience from Wayne State University and reviews challenges and constraints that we faced while trying to teach these skills. In our first software engineering course, we teach the iterative software development that includes practices of software change, summarized in the phased model of software change. The required resources for our software engineering course are comparable to the other computer science courses. The students - while working in teams - are graded based on their individual contribution to the team effort rather than on the work of the other team members, which improves the fairness of the grading and considerably lessens the stress for the best students in the course. Our students have expressed a high level of satisfaction, and in a survey, they indicated that the skills that they learned in the course are highly applicable to their careers.
Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Reducing Carbohydrates by Radiochromatography on Ion-Exchange Papers'

Abstract A highly specific method for qualitative and quantitative analysis of reducing carbohydrates has been described. The method involves the measurement of the amount of tritium found in [ 3 H]sodium borohydridereduced sugars following their paper chromatographic separation on ion-exchange papers. These procedures may be used to quantitate all of those components in 5 μl of a mixture which are present in amounts ranging from 0.1 to 10,000 nmoles. The quantitation gives approximately 10% accuracy at the lower end of the sensitivity range.
Actividad Física y Tiempo en la Tarea Durante un Clima Motivacional Autónomo y el Juego Libre en Preescolares

The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of a structured, mastery motivation physical education climate and an unstructured physical activity climate on time spent on task in a small sample of preschool children. Children enrolled in a public, federal-subsidized childcare center (N= 12) participated in two 45 minute physical activity programs within the school day. The structured climate consisted of a biweekly program of motor skill instruction that was based upon the key principles of a mastery motivational climate. The unstructured program was a daily 45 minute free play environment. Actigraph accelerometers monitored children’s participation in physical activity and time-on task was observed by a momentary time sampling technique. Results showed that time on-task significantly improved following a mastery motivational climate, and children spent 36% of their time in moderate-to-vigorous activity in this climate. In contrast, time on-task did not significantly improve following participation in a free play environment and participants spent a majority of their time in sedentary behavior and accumulated no vigorous physical activity. Our results indicate that participation in physical activity impacts a preschooler’s ability to stay on task and the amount of physical activity accumulated during physical activity programming is dependent upon the climate delivered.
Calreticulin Functions as a Molecular Chaperone in the Biosynthesis of Myeloperoxidase

Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a lysosomal heme protein found exclusively in neutrophils and monocytes, is necessary for efficient oxygen-dependent microbicidal activity. Acquisition of heme by the heme-free MPO precursor apopro-MPO appears to be a prerequisite for its subsequent proteolytic processing and advancement along the biosynthetic pathway to mature MPO. We present data indicating that calreticulin (CRT), a high capacity calcium-binding protein residing in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum of a wide variety of cells, interacts specifically with fully glycosylated apopro-MPO. Biosynthetically radiolabeled CRT (60 kDa) and apopro-MPO (90 kDa) were coprecipitated from PLB 985 cells by monospecific antiserum against CRT when the immunoprecipitations were performed either under nondenaturing conditions or following reversible cross-linking. Nonglycosylated MPO precursors synthesized in the presence of tunicamycin did not interact with CRT. The CRT-apopro-MPO interaction was restricted to an early phase of MPO biosynthesis, and CRT did not interact with the later appearing, heme-containing species of MPO, i.e. pro-MPO or the heavy subunit of mature MPO. These data show that CRT participates in the posttranslational processing of MPO, perhaps by maintaining apopro-MPO in a conformation competent to accommodate insertion of the heme group. In this general way, CRT shares certain functional properties with the structurally homologous transmembrane calcium-binding endoplasmic reticulum protein calnexin. Both interact with glycosylated biosynthetic precursors of proteins selectively expressed in specialized cells.
Biological characteristics of two plaque variants of vesicular exanthema of swine virus, type E54

Abstract Two lines of vesicular exanthema virus have been isolated which differ from each other in the size of the plaque produced. Several of the in vitro biological characteristics of these lines have been examined, to account for the difference in size. The minute variant was adsorbed more rapidly than the large variant to swine kidney cells and also multiplied more rapidly within these cells. Ninety per cent of the virus produced was cell associated. Average yields per cell were in excess of 1000 plaque-forming units with both variants grown at pH 8. In multicyclic growth the concentration of bicarbonate affected the amount of virus produced by infected cells, and the pH of the medium affected the release of virus after maturation. At pH 7 the release of the minute variant was small and extracellular virus was only 1–10% of that which remained in or attached to the cells as long as 20 hours after the peak of virus growth. Release of the large-plaque variant from the cells was more rapid and more complete both at acid and alkaline pH levels. Stability of the large variant at 36° was greater at pH 7 and 8. The differences in rate and efficiency of release of virus from infected cells and in pH stability are believed to account, in part, for the observed difference in plaque morphology.
Complexin Activates Exocytosis of Distinct Secretory Vesicles Controlled by Different Synaptotagmins

Complexins are SNARE-complex binding proteins essential for the Ca2+-triggered exocytosis mediated by synaptotagmin-1, -2, -7, or -9, but the possible role of complexins in other types of exocytosis controlled by other synaptotagmin isoforms remains unclear. Here we show that, in mouse olfactory bulb neurons, synaptotagmin-1 localizes to synaptic vesicles and to large dense-core secretory vesicles as reported previously, whereas synaptotagmin-10 localizes to a distinct class of peptidergic secretory vesicles containing IGF-1. Both synaptotagmin-1-dependent synaptic vesicle exocytosis and synaptotagmin-10-dependent IGF-1 exocytosis were severely impaired by knockdown of complexins, demonstrating that complexin acts as a cofactor for both synaptotagmin-1 and synaptotagmin-10 despite the functional differences between these synaptotagmins. Rescue experiments revealed that only the activating but not the clamping function of complexins was required for IGF-1 exocytosis controlled by synaptotagmin-10. Thus, our data indicate that complexins are essential for activation of multiple types of Ca2+-induced exocytosis that are regulated by different synaptotagmin isoforms. These results suggest that different types of regulated exocytosis are mediated by similar synaptotagmin-dependent fusion mechanisms, that particular synaptotagmin isoforms confer specificity onto different types of regulated exocytosis, and that complexins serve as universal synaptotagmin adaptors for all of these types of exocytosis independent of which synaptotagmin isoform is involved.
713-1 inhibition of Neointimal Hyperplasia After Balloon Injury by Local Delivery of a Cyclic Arginine-Glycine-Aspartic Acid Peptide Targeting Vitronectin Receptor

We have previously shown that cell-matrix interactions mediated via matrix protein ligand vitronectin (VN) derived from serum and its cell surface α V β 3 integrin receptor (VNR) regulate migration of human aortic smooth muscle cells (SMC) in vitro. Arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) sequence of VN (residues 45 to 47) is the critical domain for interactions. In this study we sought to determine whether interference with VN-VNR interaction in the arterial wall would alter development of neointimal hyperplasia in a rabbit model. After balloon-induced injury of the carotid artery (2 fr Fogarty, three times) serum-derived VN was observed in edematous intima and upper third of media (immunostaining, n = 3). In 4 rabbits the VNR antagonist cyclic RGD peptide (1 mM) was locally applied to the injured artery by use of F-127 gel (800 μ I). RAD peptide (1 mM) served as an inactive control (n = 4). At 28 days rabbits were killed and carotid arteries were fixed and mean intima and media area was determined by computer-assisted planimetry. The mean intimalmedia ratio in control balloon-injured arteries was 0.47 ± 0.04 (SD). In injured, cyclic RGD peptide-treated arteries the intimalmedia ratio was 0.11 ± 0.02 (p l 0.01). There was no significant difference in media area in the two groups (1.84 ± 0.22 vs 1.67 ± 0.14 mm 2 ). These results suggest that 1) VN-VNR interaction mediates SMC migration in vivo, and 2) localized application of a VNR antagonist to the arterial wall after balloon injury modifies this process and results in a significant reduction in the development of neointimal hyperplasia. VN-VNR interaction may be an additional attractive target for pharmacologic manipulations aimed at limiting restenosis after vascular injury.
Domain-driven morphogenesis of cellular membranes

Cellular membrane systems delimit and organize the intracellular space. Most of the morphological rearrangements in cells involve the coordinated remodeling of the lipid bilayer, the core of the membranes. This process is generally thought to be initiated and coordinated by specialized protein machineries. Nevertheless, it has become increasingly evident that the most essential part of the geometric information and energy required for membrane remodeling is supplied via the cooperative and synergistic action of proteins and lipids, as cellular shapes are constructed using the intrinsic dynamics, plasticity and self-organizing capabilities provided by the lipid bilayer. Here, we analyze the essential role of proteo-lipid membrane domains in conducting and coordinating morphological remodeling in cells.
Diagnosis of depression in patients with end-stage renal disease. Comparative analysis

To evaluate the variability in the diagnosis of depression in patients receiving maintenance therapy for end-stage renal disease, a study of 60 randomly selected patients was conducted. Three representative depression assessment methods were employed concurrently in the evaluation of each patient: (1) a structured psychiatric interview based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-III); (2) the Beck Depression Inventory; and (3) the Multiple Affect Adjective Check List. Among the 60 patients, 47 percent were classified as depressed by the Beck Depression Inventory, whereas 17 percent and 5 percent were determined to be depressed according to the Multiple Affect Adjective Check List and DSM-III criteria, respectively. The data demonstrated these differences to be dependent on the overlap between the symptoms of uremia and depression, as well as on the duration of those symptoms. This study also suggests that death wish, suicidal intention, and other psychologic symptoms should receive particular attention in the clinical assessment of depression in patients with end-stage renal disease.
On a novel approach to forecast sparse rare events: applications to Parkfield earthquake prediction

Rare events are plentiful in nature and most of them have devastating consequences on human lives and property. Modeling such events is intrinsically challenging due to their very characteristic of rarity, and at times, reliable forecasts are immensely difficult to obtain due to the dearth of available data. Such situations are commonplace and typically happen when we are not equipped with a sufficiently rich historical record faithfully following the event of interest. The purpose of this endeavor is to promote the use of a certain kind of smoothing statistic termed empirical recurrence rate which can generate pseudodata over barren observation periods and to realize that such a method can effectively enlarge the size of the data set and thereby generate better prediction power. It’s simple method of construction appeals to intuition and hence, it should be profitably applied to analyze events originating from such diverse disciplines as meteorology, medical science, oceanography, volcanology, seismology, etc. We illustrate the applicability of our method with the aid of historical records of strong earthquakes at Parkfield, California, and describe how it triumphs over more established methods from a forecasting viewpoint.
Interobserver agreement for EUS findings in familial pancreatic-cancer kindreds.

Background EUS is a promising modality for pancreatic-cancer screening in high-risk persons, including familial pancreatic-cancer (FPC) kindreds. Objective To assess interobserver agreement for interpretation of EUS in persons at high risk for pancreatic cancer. Design Seventeen expert endosonographers blinded to patients' clinical history rated a "training set" of pancreatic EUS video clips for the presence of a normal examination, masses, cysts, and features of chronic pancreatitis. Clips included high-risk persons and controls (normal and various pancreatic diseases). The endosonographers then participated in a workshop on EUS findings in high-risk persons and drafted a consensus statement. Three months later, they blindly rated a "test set" composed of the same video clips. Main Outcome Measurements Interobserver agreement at baseline (training set) and after a consensus process (test set). Results For the training set, interobserver agreement was good (kappa ≥ 0.4) for the presence of cysts and was fair to poor for all other rated EUS features and diagnosis of normal. There was no overall improvement in the test set. In both the training and test sets, agreement was worse for clips from FPC kindreds (kappa ≥0.4 for cysts and Limitations Video clips were not of identical image quality and duration as a clinical EUS examination. Conclusions There was fair to poor interobserver agreement for the interpretation of pancreatic EUS video clips from members of FPC kindreds. Agreement was not improved by a consensus process.