cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of competition between point and columnar disorder on the behavior of flux lines in (1+1) dimensions.

We investigate the behavior of flux lines in the presence of both columnar and point disorder in (1+1) dimensions using renormalization-group (RG) and world-line quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) techniques. In particular, we calculate the transverse wandering correlation function for a single boson and recover known results for point and columnar disorder separately. We then examine the existence of a localization transition of a flux line in the simultaneous presence of both types of disorder. We also performed RG calculations for interacting flux lines. The RG calculation indicate that the vortex glass is unstable with respect to an arbitrary small amount of columnar disorder. Using QMC techniques we find that the Bose glass transition temperature is reduced by the point disorder, in agreement with recent RG calculations. Further we find that the region posited to be an Anderson glass is completely destroyed.
The quantitative estimation of saponin in pea (Pisum sativum L.) and soya (Glycine max)

Abstract A thin-layer chromatographic method is described for the analysis of saponins in pea and soya flours. The results are compared with those of methods using gas chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography. The levels of saponin found in the air-classified fractions of pea flour are reported. The observed levels of saponin in soya, as estimated by thin-layer and gas chromatography (0·35% and 0·33%), are much lower than that previously reported using the former approach and reasons for this discrepancy are discussed.
Giant magnetic anisotropy and tunnelling of the magnetization in Li2(Li1−xFex)N

Large magnetic anisotropy and coercivity are key properties of functional magnetic materials and are generally associated with rare earth elements. Here we show an extreme, uniaxial magnetic anisotropy and the emergence of magnetic hysteresis in Li₂(Li(1-x)Fe(x))N. An extrapolated, magnetic anisotropy field of 220 T and a coercivity field of over 11 T at 2 K outperform all known hard ferromagnets and single-molecular magnets. Steps in the hysteresis loops and relaxation phenomena in striking similarity to single-molecular magnets are particularly pronounced for x≪1 and indicate the presence of nanoscale magnetic centres. Quantum tunnelling, in the form of temperature-independent relaxation and coercivity, deviation from Arrhenius behaviour and blocking of the relaxation, dominates the magnetic properties up to 10 K. The simple crystal structure, the availability of large single crystals and the ability to vary the Fe concentration make Li₂(Li(1-x)Fe(x))N an ideal model system to study macroscopic quantum effects at elevated temperatures and also a basis for novel functional magnetic materials.
Falls efficacy and self-rated health in older African American adults

A B S T R A C T Fear of falling and mobility restrictions have a significant negative impact on the quality of life of older adults. Because older African American adults are at increased risk for various modifiable health problems, understanding potential constraints on their overall health and mobility is critical in this population. The current study investigated this issue by analyzing a dataset of 449 older African American adults (mean age = 72.3 years) living in Detroit. We characterized and investigated the relationships among the following falls- and health-related variables: previous falls, falls efficacy, mobility, self-rated health (SRH), and depression and well-being. As a whole, participants reported moderate health and well-being, little depression, few mobility problems (mean = 8.4/40), and very high falls efficacy (mean = 94.9/100) despite the fact that a quarter of the sample experienced a fall within the past year. Correlation results indicated that previous falls, falls efficacy, mobility, SRH and depression and well-being were all inter-related. Regression analyses revealed that higher falls efficacy was more closely associated with better SRH than was having previously fallen. Findings suggest that improving falls efficacy in older African American adults may be beneficial to their mobility and overall health and well-being. Further, by asking a single-item SRH question, clinicians may be able to quickly identify older African American adults who have low falls efficacy and are at high risk for falling.
Scaffolding and Reflection in Course-Integrated Library Instruction

A multistep process of integrating library instruction into an undergraduate education class is described and tested. The methodology incorporated a pre- and postsurvey and an examination of written comments. Findings include the importance of scaffolding in supporting the research process and the importance of reflection in shaping that process.
Stereotype Threat in Applied Settings Re‐Examined

Stricker & Ward (2004) examined stereotype threat with a national sample of students taking an Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus exam, and a smaller sample taking Computerized Placement Tests (CPT). They inquired about gender either before (traditional) or after the test (which can reduce stereotype threat). They reported no significant effects of question timing. We reanalyze their findings, and argue that their conservative criterion for evidence led them to overlook significant stereotype threat effects with real practical implications. Women benefited substantially on the Calculus test, and on the CPT–Reading when demographics were asked after testing rather than before. This simple, small, and inexpensive change could increase U.S. women receiving AP Calculus AB credit by more than 4,700 every year.
Detection in hyperspectral imagery

Hyperspectral sensors collect hundreds of images in contiguous and narrowly spaced spectral bands. They have the potential to simultaneously provide high spatial and spectral resolution of targets of interest in Automatic Target Detection and Recognition (ATD/R). The price to be paid is the need to process and store an extremely large amount of data in an effective and timely manner. We develop a new implementation of the maximum-likelihood (ML) detector which is both practical and efficient. Our detection is based on a Gauss- Markov Random Field (GMRF) model for the data which avoids the inversion of large data covariance matrices usually encountered in ML-detectors. The paper presents two algorithms to fit the GMRF to the hyperspectral sensor data: an optimal ML estimation algorithm and a suboptimal Least Squares (LS) estimation algorithm. Using the LS-algorithm, we develop the structure of the detector and present estimation results from a real hyperspectral data set.
After the transistor, the qubit?

Attention is increasingly focused on quantum computing as a path to the continued rapid growth of information-processing technology. But like other physical circuitry, quantum computers must face the uncomfortable fact that man-made objects aren't exact reproductions of idealized devices and aren't invariably perfectly reproducible. The consequences of this imperfection threaten the future of quantum computing.
Building a Practical Sensing System

Developing Internet of Things (IoT) applications can be a complex task for many developers, requiring knowledge of sensor hardware, deployment characteristics, network limitations, and multiple protocols. Because of this, IoT development has been largely centered around research scientists and domain experts, with only a limited number of simple applications coming from the broader community. We present a software architecture that seeks to simplify and accelerate the development of IoT applications, making them accessible to a larger community of developers. To keep the system simple yet flexible, it focuses on a limited number of abstractions, relying on the developers and administrators to enforce additional constraints where necessary. We present a model system and a prototype implementation, along with experiences developing applications.
Idea Generation in Technology-Supported Teams: A Multilevel Motivational Perspective

In this research, we draw on multilevel theory to understand the interplay between team characteristics--team size and team dispersion--and individual goal striving in influencing individual idea generation performance. We conducted a laboratory study involving 185 individuals nested in 34 brainstorming teams and found that individual goal striving is a stronger predictor of individual idea generation performance in dispersed team contexts compared to co-located team contexts and in larger teams than in smaller teams. The implications of the findings for theory and practice are discussed.
The Family: Some Comparative Considerations1

IN ORDER to carry out comparative analysis, one clearly requires concepts on the most general level which are applicable to any society. The concept "family" is commonly used in this way; that is, it is commonly assumed that in every society there is something called "the family." We feel, however, that the concept as it is most often used is ill-adapted to comparative analysis. It is usually assumed, either implicitly or explicitly, that in every society there is a single social unit which is invariably associated with certain functions. It may even be assumed that this unit is everywhere structurally the same. Now progress in the field of comparative analysis of societies has regularly involved clearer distinction between structure and function and between concrete social units and analytically distinguishable aspects of such units (Levy 1952). The political field provides a case in point. The term "political system" in its common-sense Western meaning refers to a series of specialized concrete social units (bureaucracies, legislatures, courts, parties) with particular structural forms (hierarchical in the case of bureaucracies, collegial in the case of legislatures, and so on) and having particular functions with regard to the exercise of power and authority (adjudicating disputes, making decisions, securing consent). However, a concept like this is of little use comparatively. On the one hand, by this definition many societies simply do not have "political systems." In many societies a single social unit-perhaps a unilineal kinship group-may combine the functions of "church," "state," and "firm" and it will very likely differ greatly in structure from any of the specialized political units characteristic of the modern West. On the other hand, the above type of definition of "political system" tends to obscure as much as it reveals even within the systems to which it is indigenous. Even the specialized political units of the modern West have nonpolitical aspects, while other units, not of a specialized political nature, nevertheless have political aspects. It is only when these distinctions are recognized that the political systems of the full range of human societies become commensurable. As applied to the political field or to most other fields of comparative interest, distinctions of this kind are commonly made and, indeed, seem obvious, but in comparative studies of the family they seem to be considered unnecessary. Undoubtedly the reason for this is the apparent empirical ubiquity of small, kinship-structured domestic units having reproductive, socialization, and sex-regulation functions. In most other respects human society is empirically so variable that distinction between structure and function, between
Nuclear type II [3H]estradiol binding site ligands: inhibition of ER-positive and ER-negative cell proliferation and c-Myc and cyclin D1 gene expression.

Abstract These studies assessed the effects of 3,4-dihydroxybenzalacetone (ZN-1) and 1-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propanol (ZN-2) on MCF-7 cell proliferation. The compounds blocked [3H]estradiol binding to nuclear type II sites, but did not compete for [3H]estradiol binding to recombinant ERα or ERβ. ZN-1 and ZN-2 inhibited the proliferation of ERα and ERβ positive (MCF-7) and negative (MCF-10A) breast cells, further ruling out direct binding to ER in the mechanism of action of these compounds. Pre-loading type II sites with ZN-1 or ZN-2 reduced [3H]estradiol exchange, strongly suggesting the drugs were binding covalently. ZN-1 treatment resulted in complete occupancy of type II sites and sustained (9 days) inhibition of MCF-7 cell proliferation following its removal from the tissue culture medium. This cell growth inhibition was not due to non-specific toxicity, as the numbers of viable, attached cells per dish (determined by trypan blue dye exclusion) remained constant throughout this 9-day period and eventually reversed by day 19. ZN-2 effects on cell proliferation reversed more rapidly following discontinuation of treatment, a response consistent with the inability of the compound to totally block type II binding. Both ZN-1 and ZN-2 blocked estradiol stimulation of c-Myc and cyclin D1 gene expression in MCF-7 cells, two events that are clearly coupled to cell cycle progression. We suspect this may occur through ZN-1 or ZN-2 modification of nucleosome function and/or chromatin remodeling since nuclear type II sites are localized to a complex of histones H3 and H4 (Shoulars et. al, J Steroid Biochem. Mol. Biol. 96: 19–30, 2005).
On the origins of structural defects in BF 2+-implanted and rapid-thermally-annealed silicon: Conditions for defect-free regrowth

Abstract The rapid thermal annealing behavior of BF 2+-implanted silicon pre-amorphized with Si + and Ge + has been investigated with conventional and high-resolution cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy, and secondary-ion mass spectrometry. Three distinct layers of defects (types I, II and III) are identified. Fine clusters (type III) in the near-surface regions of both Si + and Ge + pre-amorphized samples are shown to be related to fluorine. In addition, models for the nucleation of interstitial dislocations loops (type I) and “hairpin” dislocations (type II) are presented. These models and the experimental results suggest that the densities of type I and type II defects can be reduced by pre-amorphizing with Ge + instead of Si + Furthermore, defect-free regrowth is demonstrated for samples which are pre-amorphized with Ge + and rapid-thermally-annealed at 1150°C.
Optical neural networks based on photorefractive beam fanning

We describe a hybrid optoelectronic neurocomputer based on photorefractive crystals in which each neural network interconnection and its weight is stored in a set of angularly- and spatially-multiplexed gratings generated by stimulated processes in photorefractive crystals called beam fanning. This approach to holographic storage reduces crosstalk and improves system performance. Successfully implemented neural networks include the Perceptron, Bidirectional Associative Memory, and multi-layer backpropagation networks. Preliminary results are presented.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Second structural motif for recognition of DNA by oligonucleotide-directed triple-helix formation

Relative orientations of the DNA strands within a purine.purine.pyrimidine triple helix have been determined by affinity cleaving. A purine-rich oligonucleotide bound in the major groove of double-helical DNA antiparallel to the Watson-Crick purine strand. Binding depended upon the concentration of multivalent cations such as spermine or Mg2+, and appeared to be relatively independent of pH. Two models with specific hydrogen-bonding patterns for base triplets (G.GC, A.AT, and T.AT) are proposed to explain the sequence specificity of binding. The two models differ in the conformation about the glycosyl bond (syn or anti) and the location of the phosphate-deoxyribose backbone in the major groove of DNA. This motif broadens the structural frameworks available as a basis for the design of sequence-specific DNA binding molecules.
Quantifying Community Assembly Processes and Identifying Features that Impose Them

Spatial turnover in the composition of biological communities is governed by (ecological) Drift, Selection and Dispersal. Commonly applied statistical tools cannot quantitatively estimate these processes, nor identify abiotic features that impose these processes. For interrogation of subsurface microbial communities distributed across two geologically distinct formations of the unconfined aquifer underlying the Hanford Site in southeastern Washington State, we developed an analytical framework that advances ecological understanding in two primary ways. First, we quantitatively estimate influences of Drift, Selection and Dispersal. Second, ecological patterns are used to characterize measured and unmeasured abiotic variables that impose Selection or that result in low levels of Dispersal. We find that (i) Drift alone consistently governs ∼25% of spatial turnover in community composition; (ii) in deeper, finer-grained sediments, Selection is strong (governing ∼60% of turnover), being imposed by an unmeasured but spatially structured environmental variable; (iii) in shallower, coarser-grained sediments, Selection is weaker (governing ∼30% of turnover), being imposed by vertically and horizontally structured hydrological factors;(iv) low levels of Dispersal can govern nearly 30% of turnover and be caused primarily by spatial isolation resulting from limited exchange between finer and coarser-grain sediments; and (v) highly permeable sediments are associated with high levels of Dispersal that homogenize community composition and govern over 20% of turnover. We further show that our framework provides inferences that cannot be achieved using preexisting approaches, and suggest that their broad application will facilitate a unified understanding of microbial communities.
Effects of Tufted Apple Budmoth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) Injury on Quality and Storageahility of Processing Apples

A study was done to determine the impact of tufted apple budmoth (TABM), Platynota idaeusalis (Walker), feeding injury on the quality and storageability of ‘Yorking’ apples destined for processing markets. Apples were evaluated according to USDA standards for processing. Quality measurements such as soluble solids, firmness, weight loss, and decay were determined at harvest and at various intervals during regular and controlled atmosphere storage. Most TABM-injured fruit remained as a U.S. #1, thus not impacting the grower’s financial return. At harvest, soluble solids in uninjured and injured U.S. #1 fruit did not differ, but soluble solids were significantly lower in uninjured fruit than in U.S. #2 (cider or cull apples). Weight loss was significantly higher for injured apples compared with uninjured apples at all regular storage periods. Percentage of decayed fruit among TABM injured apples was significantly higher than among uninjured fruit in regular storage after 6 mo and in controlled atmosphere storage after 9 mo. In general, TABM injury tended to accelerate fruit maturity and decrease fruit quality during storage.
Physical Space, Imagined Space, and "Lived Space" in Ancient Israel

One way in which to analyze biblical narrative is by examining the ways in which the ancient Israelites perceived and used space. This includes theological concepts like the "Promised Land," political dimensions such as "from Dan to Beersheba," and "lived space" such as the village gate or the threshing floor. By placing an emphasis on where events occur and on how kings, prophets or other characters use significant space/place to their advantage, and by noting the impact that space has on the development of tradition and local custom (hospitality, use of boundary stones) it is possible to better understand the social world of ancient Israel.
The delta-aminolevulinic acid synthetase activity and the effect of exogenous delta-aminolevulinate on the synthesis of cytochrome c in the thoracic muscles of the tobacco horn worm during adult development.

Abstract Activity of δ-aminolevulinic acid synthetase was measured in homogenates of flight muscles of the tobacco horn worm moth ( Manduca sexta ) during adult development. The activity in pupae prior to 15-days old is below the limit of detection. The activity in the 16–17-day-old pupae is minimal but it increases rapidly thereafter, reaches the highest level at the emergence of adult moths, and then drastically falls to a very low level within 18 h. The rise in activity prior to the adult emergence was inhibited by puromycin and actinomycin D. However, it was found that injected δ-aminolevulinic acid did not stimulate de novo synthesis of cytochrome c .
Cost Estimates of Cellulosic Ethanol Manufacturing: A Literature Review

Cellulosic ethanol is one type of renewable energy, and can be used to replace petroleum based transportation fuels. The technologies of converting cellulosic biomass into ethanol are relatively mature. However, the manufacturing costs of cellulosic ethanol are too high to be competitive. Economic analyses of cellulosic ethanol manufacturing have appeared regularly to estimate manufacturing costs of cellulosic ethanol. But the estimated manufacturing costs of cellulosic ethanol have a wide range due to differences in used assumptions. It is very difficult to judge which one is most reliable among the markedly different cost estimates in the literature. This paper reviews the literature on cost estimates in manufacturing of cellulosic ethanol. Cost estimates of each manufacturing process are summarized. Cost components and their data sources are discussed. This review provides a foundation to develop a comprehensive cost model for cellulosic ethanol manufacturing.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Low frequency spectra of type III solar radio bursts

Flux density spectra have been determined for ninety-one simple type III solar bursts observed by the Goddard Space Flight Center radio astronomy experiment on the IMP-6 spacecraft during 1971 and 1972. Spectral peaks were found to occur at frequencies ranging from 44 kHz up to 2500 kHz. Half of the bursts peaked between 250 kHz and 900 kHz, corresponding to emission at solar distances of about 0.3 to 0.1 AU. Maximum burst flux density sometimes exceeds 10−14 W m−2 Hz−1. The primary factor controlling the spectral peak frequency of these bursts appears to be variation in intrinsic power radiated by the source as the exciter moves outward from the Sun, rather than radio propagation effects between the source and IMP-6. Thus, a burst spectrum strongly reflects the evolution of the properties of the exciting electron beam, and according to current theory, beam deceleration could help account for the observations.
The Impact of Maternal Characteristics and Sensitivity on the Concordance Between Maternal Reports and Laboratory Observations of Infant Negative Emotionality

The moderating role of maternal characteristics and maternal sensitivity on the concordance between maternal reports and laboratory observations of negative emotionality was examined. Participants were 90 primiparous mothers and their infants. Mothers completed questionnaires about remembered care from their own parents and their depressive symptoms prenatally, infant temperament (distress to novelty and distress to limitations), and depressive symptoms postnatally. Mothers and infants participated in a laboratory assessment of infant temperament (distress to novelty and limitations) and maternal sensitivity at 6 months postpartum. Several factors that moderate the degree of concordance between maternal reports and behavioral observations were identified, as predicted. Novelty concordance was higher when mothers reported having their emotional needs met in childhood and low prenatal depressive symptoms. Limitations concordance was higher when mothers were less sensitive during the observational tasks. Methodological and theoretical implications are discussed.
Infection Control: The Role of Facilitator in Process Improvement To Ensure Safety of Reprocessed Medical Equipment

RESULTS: 3000 staff received surveys; 38% (1142) responded. Highlights of responses: while 99% were aware of a HH policy, only 62% believe that staff members follow it. Deterrents included: inconveniently located sinks and alcohol handrub, patients’ needs take priority, too busy, skin is irritated. Suggestions for increasing compliance included: use fluorescing gel type products for education; provide gentler soap; ask patients to rate HH on patient satisfaction surveys and feedback results to units. Preand post-campaign HH observations showed an overall compliance of 46% (range 31%-59% per unit) and 56% (range 26%-85% per unit), respectively. S/W and alcohol handrub were chosen equally both preand post-campaign. For those choosing S/W, a wash of at least 15 seconds increased from 19% pre-campaign to 41% post-campaign.
Status of the Hubble Space Telescope observatory

Abstract The Hubble Space Telescope activity by NASA and ESA began in 1971 and is now nearing completion. The Scientific Instruments are complete and their performance confirmed. The Optical Telescope Assembly integration is proceeding well, with the crucial Fine Guidance Sensors expected to perform as designed. Telescope delivery to the spacecraft contractor is expected in December 1984. Completion of the Verification and Assembly Program will then be followed by launch in the summer of 1986.
The Hedge Fund Handbook: A Definitive Guide for Analyzing and Evaluating Alternative Investments

Chung9s review of the second of two books that offer fundamental information on ways of evaluating or determining the benefit of economic information (Stephen D. Slifer and W. Stansbury Carnes9 By The Numbers [International Financial Press, 1995]) or evaluating hedge funds (Stefano Lavinio9 The Hedge Fund Handbook [McGraw Hill, 2000]) are reviewed.
Effects of Nitric Oxide After Cardiac Transplantation in the Setting of Recipient Pulmonary Hypertension

Abstract Background. Recipient pulmonary hypertension secondary to chronic congestive heart failure is a significant risk factor for right ventricular failure after cardiac transplantation. In this study, the hemodynamic and inotropic effects of nitric oxide (NO) were examined after bicaval cardiac transplantation in the setting of monocrotaline pyrrole-induced recipient chronic pulmonary hypertension. Methods . Twenty dogs underwent 10 successfully completed transplantation experiments. Recipients underwent pulmonary artery injection of 3 mg/kg monocrotaline pyrrole 4 months before transplantation. Measurements were taken 1 hour after cessation of cardiopulmonary bypass and after NO inhalation. Pulmonary vascular impedance was calculated using Fourier analysis, and cardiac function was assessed with load-insensitive means (preload recruitable stroke work). Results . At the time of transplantation, the precardiopulmonary bypass levels of pulmonary vascular resistance in recipient animals were significantly greater when compared with donor levels, and were further significantly increased after cardiopulmonary bypass. Three recipients died after transplantation secondary to acute right ventricular failure. In the surviving animals, NO led to significant improvements in pulmonary vascular resistance and vascular impedance, which occurred in association with significant increases in transpulmonary efficiency. No significant changes were observed in right and left ventricular preload recruitable stroke work after NO inhalation. Conclusions . These data suggest that NO may be an effective means to improve vascular impedance and pulmonary vascular efficiency after cardiac transplantation in the setting of recipient chronic pulmonary hypertension. (Ann Thorac Surg 1997;63:1546–55)
Serial MR and CT features of primary germinoma originating in the basal ganglia

Serial changes of neuroradiological findings in a 10-year-old boy with primary germinoma originating in the basal ganglia are reported. He presented with a one year history of slowly progressive right hemiparesis. Although initial computed tomography (CT) scans showed no prominent abnormalities, a slight high-density area in the basal ganglia became conspicuous with cortical atrophy on follow-up scans. Sequential magnetic resonance images showed a homogeneous lesion with clear margin and remarkable postcontrast enhancement. Two cell pattern germinoma was histologically verified by CT guided stereotactic biopsy. Following irradiation, the tumour completely disappeared, however, the atrophy of the cerebral hemisphere and the brain stem progressed, and mild hemiparesis remained. We discuss the neuroradiological features and clinical manifestations of this disease.
Central noradrenergic involvement in yohimbine excitation of acoustic startle: effects of DSP4 and 6-OHDA.

It was previously shown that i.p. administration of the alpha 2-adrenergic antagonist yohimbine increased the magnitude of the acoustic startle response in rats. The purpose of the present study was to determine possible central noradrenergic involvement in yohimbine's effect on startle. Pretreatment with N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-ethyl-2-bromo-benzylamine (DSP4; 50 mg/kg, i.p.; 1-2 days before testing) completely blocked the excitatory effect of yohimbine on startle. DSP4 reduced forebrain and spinal cord NE levels by 47% and 56%, respectively, without affecting forebrain or spinal serotonin (5-HT), or forebrain dopamine (DA). Pretreatment with the NE reuptake blocker desmethylimipramine (DMI; 20 mg/kg, i.p.; 30 min before DSP4) prevented the ability of DSP4 to block the yohimbine effect. DMI partially reversed the NE-depleting effects of DSP4. Neither bilateral adrenalectomy nor intravenously administered 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA; 20 mg/kg; 1-2 days before testing) altered the excitatory effect of yohimbine, indicating that peripheral NE is not involved. 6-OHDA (2 X 200 micrograms) injected into the lateral ventricles blocked yohimbine's effect, and depleted NE by 95% (spinal cord) and 86% (forebrain), without affecting 5-HT in either region. 6-OHDA also depleted forebrain DA levels by 49%. Finally, intrathecal administration of 6-OHDA (20 micrograms; 14 days before testing) into the subarachnoid space of the lumbar spinal cord blocked the excitatory effect of yohimbine, and produced an extensive (94%) depletion of spinal cord NE. Intrathecal 6-OHDA did not alter spinal levels of 5-HT or forebrain levels of NE, 5-HT or DA. In summary, these data indicate that central descending NE neurons are necessary for yohimbine's excitatory effect on startle.
Translational Mini-Review Series on B Cell-Directed Therapies: Recent advances in B cell-directed biological therapies for autoimmune disorders.

B cell-directed therapies are promising treatments for autoimmune disorders. Besides targeting CD20, newer B cell-directed therapies are in development that target other B cell surface molecules and differentiation factors. An increasing number of B cell-directed therapies are in development for the treatment of autoimmune disorders. Like rituximab, which is approved as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), many of these newer agents deplete B cells or target pathways essential for B cell development and function; however, many questions remain about their optimal use in the clinic and about the role of B cells in disease pathogenesis. Other therapies besides rituximab that target CD20 are the furthest along in development. Besides targeting CD20, the newer B cell-directed therapies target CD22, CD19, CD40-CD40L, B cell activating factor belonging to the TNF family (BAFF) and A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL). Rituximab is being tested in an ever-increasing number of autoimmune disorders and clinical studies of rituximab combined with other biological therapies are being pursued for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). B cell-directed therapies are being tested in clinical trials for a variety of autoimmune disorders including RA, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjogren's syndrome, vasculitis, multiple sclerosis (MS), Graves' disease, idiopathic thrombocytopenia (ITP), the inflammatory myopathies (dermatomyositis and polymyositis) and the blistering skin diseases pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid. Despite the plethora of clinical studies related to B cell-directed therapies and wealth of new information from these trials, much still remains to be discovered about the pathophysiological role of B cells in autoimmune disorders.
Web-based research: Methodological variables’ effects on dropout and sample characteristics

Previous research has made a beginning in addressing the importance of methodological differences in Web-based research. The present paper presents four studies investigating whether sample type, financial incentives, time when personal information is requested, table design, and method of obtaining informed consent influence dropout and sample characteristics (both demographics and measured attitudes). Undergraduates were less likely to drop out than nonstudents, and nonstudents offered a financial incentive were less likely to drop out than those offered no incentive. Complex tables, tables that were too wide, requests for personal information on the first page, and the imposing of additional informed consent procedures each provoked early dropout. As was expected, nonstudents and those presented with complex tables showed more measurement error and attitude differences. Asking for personal information and imposing additional consent procedures affected the demographic makeup, raising challenges to external validity.
The Cdc42/Par6/aPKC Polarity Complex Regulates Apoptosis-Induced Compensatory Proliferation in Epithelia

Summary Background In response to stress- or tissue-damage-induced apoptosis, unaffected epithelial cells undergo compensatory proliferation to maintain the integrity of the epithelium. Proximal signals regulating this response are not fully understood, but c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activity appears to be critical for both apoptosis and compensatory proliferation. Disruption of epithelial cell apical-basal polarity occurs in early cancer development and is often correlated with increased proliferation by means not fully characterized. We considered whether disruption of the various polarity complexes could provide signals identifying damaged epithelial cells and thus lead to apoptosis-induced compensatory proliferation. Results We identify the Cdc42/Par6/atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) Par polarity complex as uniquely and specifically regulating apoptosis-induced compensatory proliferation in Drosophila epithelia. Genetic depletion of individual components or disruption of formation and localization of this complex, but not other polarity complexes, induces JNK-dependent apoptosis and JNK-dependent compensatory proliferation following radiation injury. When apoptosis execution is blocked, by p35 expression, Cdc42/Par6/aPKC-depleted tissues uniquely hyperproliferate, leading to tissue and organ overgrowth. Disruption of Cdc42/Par6/aPKC leads to activation of JNK through increased Rho1 and Rok activity and Rok's capacity to activate myosin but not F-actin. Conclusions We show that the Cdc42/Par6/aPKC polarity complex influences both a physiologic compensatory proliferation response after irradiation injury and a contrived compensatory non-cell-autonomous hyperproliferation response when cell-autonomous apoptosis, resulting from Cdc42/Par6/aPKC disruption, is inhibited. These results suggest the possibility that in cancer where apoptotic regulation is disrupted, loss of Cdc42/Par6/aPKC polarity complex organization or localization could contribute to tumor hyperproliferation and explain how polarity disruption contributes to tumor development.
Low scattering microwave cloaking by all-dielectric metamaterials

The design of a cylindrical transmission cloak that provides low scattering cross width (SCW) at microwave frequencies is proposed. The cloak is composed of concentric layers of identical dielectric resonators (DRs), while different air fractions are employed to enable the required spatial dispersion of the effective permeability. The cloak performance has been investigated by using full-wave simulations of the true multi-resonator cloak structure. The simulations confirmed the existence of the cloaking band, in which the SCW of the cloaked target is lower than that of the bare target.
Emphasis on the Public

Abstract St. George9s, Bermuda received World Heritage status in 2000, and today many of the island9s majority Black population still don9t know what that means. Is it because we aren9t educating or marketing this ““achievement”” or do the peripheral voices and marginal communities view the designation as unimportant or an imposition? This case study examines the importance of examining the disparity in how we, and our public, interpret and value history. My job is to examine these acts of inclusion/exclusion and shift the balance with programs like ““Bringing History to Life,”” a student summer workshop series that uses different mediums to interrogate history.
Neutron-induced fission of Ra226

Abstract Energy distributions of single fragments from fission of Ra 226 by neutrons from 4 to 21 MeV have been observed. The distribution changes from a double peak for 4 MeV neutrons, through unequal double peaks for 8 MeV neutrons, to a single peak for 10 MeV neutrons. The cross section for fission was found to rise from 0.5 millibarns for 2 MeV neutrons to 37 millibarns for 23 MeV neutrons.
Relationship between school guidance and psychotherapy for adolescents.

The rapid growth of school guidance programs and the number of adolescents in psychotherapy have led to the necessity for clarifying procedures and relationships between school counselors and psychotherapists. This paper develops the position that school guidance and psychotherapy should be collaborative and complementary. It discusses procedural and relationship problems and presents a rationale, along with illustrative evidence, in support of this position.
Desistance From Sexual Offending Findings From 21 Life History Narratives

The present study explored the process of desistance from sexual offending in a sample of 21 men convicted of sexual offenses and released from custody. Each participant was interviewed using the Life History Interview Protocol and transcripts were analyzed using NVivo software. The postrelease experiences of each participant were examined and particular attention was paid to the variables previously identified in three established theories of desistance: natural desistance, cognitive transformation, and achievement of informal social controls. Qualitative narrative analysis was conducted to explore the presence of themes of desistance that have previously been identified in nonsexual offenders as well as emergent themes unique to this particular sample. Results underscored the relevance of natural desistance for a small group and the importance of cognitive transformation within the context of treatment for a majority of participants. Emergent themes were mostly related to the negative impact of recent policies on participants’ ability to find accommodation, employment, and relationships.
Rabbi Engagement with the Peace Process in the Middle East

Support for Israel has been a hallmark issue of the Jewish lobby in American politics. But what do Jewish religious leaders think about U.S. policy toward Israel and the p eace process, and how often do they address these issues? Do the opinions of American rabbis on Israel fall in line with their views on American international involvement, or are they distinctive? Using a sample of over 400 rabbis drawn from the four major movements of American Judaism in the fall of 2000, we investigate rabbi views of and speech about international affairs and American foreign policy; we focus specifically on the Middle East and Israel. Contrary to conventional wisdom, we find considerable diversity in opinion among rabbis (if not public speech patterns), particularly on issues concerning the internal governance of Israel and the direction of the peace process. We conclude that the religiously observant Jewish community is hearing a diversity of opinions about the peace process from these important opinion leaders.
The role of the preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen level in early-stage adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix

Abstract Objective. The purpose of the study was to identify the relationship between preoperative serum levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and clinicopathological variables in early-stage adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix. Methods. From February 1990 to August 2002, 117 patients with surgically treated early-stage cervical adenocarcinoma that had had preoperative serum CEA evaluations were retrospectively reviewed. The cut-off value for CEA, based on the manufacturer's recommendations, was 5 ng/ml. For an evaluation of the relationship between the clinicopathological factors and increased levels of serum tumor markers, the Chi-Square/Fisher's exact test and logistic regression were used for univariate and multivariate analysis, respectively. Results. The mean age of the patients was 46 years (range, 21–78). Of the 117 patients, 28 had preoperative serum CEA levels greater than 5 ng/ml. In a univariate analysis, the increased marker was associated with a larger tumor size, presence of lymphovascular invasion, and deeper cervical wall invasion. However, in a multivariate analysis, the preoperative CEA level had a significant impact on the determination of the depth of stromal invasion (OR 4.12, 95% CI 1.97–8.68, P Conclusion. In early-stage cervical adenocarcinoma, preoperative serum CEA levels seem to be useful in estimating the depth of cervical stromal invasion. Assessment of tumor antigen CEA levels should be integrated with the routine examination in the work-up of patients with adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix.
The Biflavonoid Isoginkgetin Is a General Inhibitor of Pre-mRNA Splicing

Membrane-permeable compounds that reversibly inhibit a particular step in gene expression are highly useful tools for cell biological and biochemical/structural studies. In comparison with other gene expression steps where multiple small molecule effectors are available, very few compounds have been described that act as general inhibitors of pre-mRNA splicing. Here we report construction and validation of a set of mammalian cell lines suitable for the identification of small molecule inhibitors of pre-mRNA splicing. Using these cell lines, we identified the natural product isoginkgetin as a general inhibitor of both the major and minor spliceosomes. Isoginkgetin inhibits splicing both in vivo and in vitro at similar micromolar concentrations. It appears to do so by preventing stable recruitment of the U4/U5/U6 tri-small nuclear ribonucleoprotein, resulting in accumulation of the prespliceosomal A complex. Like two other recently reported general pre-mRNA splicing inhibitors, isoginkgetin has been previously described as an anti-tumor agent. Our results suggest that splicing inhibition is the mechanistic basis of the anti-tumor activity of isoginkgetin. Thus, pre-mRNA splicing inhibitors may represent a novel avenue for development of new anti-cancer agents.
751 PROTEIN-ENERGY MALNUTRITION (PEM) EFFECTS ON THE INTESTINAL ABSORPTION OF WATER AND ELECTROLYTES

751 PROTEIN-ENERGY MALNUTRITION (PEM) EFFECTS ON THE INTESTINAL ABSORPTION OF WATER AND ELECTROLYTES
The persistence of stimulant effects in chronically treated children: further evidence of an inverse relationship between drug effects and placebo levels of response.

Seventeen hyperactive children who had been treated for 1–5 years with methylphenidate were studied in a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study. Specific measures of stimulant response were found to be inversely related to the subject's level of response in the placebo condition. This inverse relationship was previously found to characterize the clinical effects of hyperactive children in an acute-treatment paradigm. It is equally valid in a chronic-treatment study. “State-contingency” is not, therefore, simply a function of the “novelty” of initial drug treatment.
Transmission and Detection of Prions in Feces

In chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids and in scrapie in sheep, prions appear to be transmitted horizontally. Oral exposure to prion-tainted blood, urine, saliva, and feces has been suggested as the mode of transmission of CWD and scrapie among herbivores susceptible to these prion diseases. To explore the transmission of prions through feces, uninoculated Syrian hamsters (SHas) were cohabitated with or exposed to the bedding of SHas orally infected with Sc237 prions. Incubation times of 140 days and a rate of prion infection of 80%-100% among exposed animals suggested transmission by feces, probably via coprophagy. We measured the disease-causing isoform of the prion protein (PrP(Sc)) in feces by use of the conformation-dependent immunoassay, and we titrated the irradiated feces intracerebrally in transgenic mice that overexpressed SHa prion protein (SHaPrP). Fecal samples collected from infected SHas in the first 7 days after oral challenge harbored 60 ng/g PrP(Sc) and prion titers of approximately 10(6.6) ID(50)/g. Excretion of infectious prions continued at lower levels throughout the asymptomatic phase of the incubation period, most likely by the shedding of prions from infected Peyer patches. Our findings suggest that horizontal transmission of disease among herbivores may occur through the consumption of feces or foodstuff tainted with prions from feces of CWD-infected cervids and scrapie-infected sheep.
Sexual Behavior, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Prostatitis: The Risk of Prostate Cancer in Black Men

Purpose: Black men are diagnosed with prostate cancer more often than white men, present with more advanced disease and have worse stage specific survival. Given the high risk of incidence and mort...
Salvaging the "lost peritoneum" after ventriculoatrial shunt failures.

Objective Placement of a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is the long-standing treatment of choice for hydrocephalus. However, in many patients with repeated distal failures, ventriculoatrial (VA) shunts are placed. Should the VA shunt fail, finding appropriate distal sites is often difficult.
A Review of: “Nigg, Joel T. (2006). What Causes ADHD: Understanding What Goes Wrong and Why.”

I have long advocated that scientific growth, particularly within the field of child development, can be best measured not by the number of scientific studies published about the condition, but by ...
INVESTIGATIONS ON THE MORPHOLOGY AND COMPARATIVE HISTORY OF DEVELOPMENT OF FOLIAR ORGANS IV. THE PROPHYLL OF CARYA BUCKLEYI VAR. ARKANSAN A

In Carya Buckleyi var. arkansana Sarg., the outermost scale of axillary buds on normal spur or long shoots is sac-like in form and, except for a more or less prominent opening near the abaxial apex, completely embraces the inner organs of the bud (text figs. I, 4, 9). Since the axillary buds of many dicotyledons are provided with paired lateral prophylls 2 this sac-like prophyll of the black hickory is unusual and invites comparison with the characteristically addorsed prophyll of monocotyledonous buds. Apparently the earliest morphological interpretation of the prophyll of Carya was proposed by D611 (1848, p. 22 and fig. i8). He suggested that in Carya alba, the outer scale of the axKillary bud represents two " inwardly fused prophylls." Later, Casimir de Candolle (i862, pp. io-i2 and P1. I) in his memoir on the Juglandaceae, pointed out differences in the number, arrangement and character of the bud scales of Carya by the use of which he subsequently (I864, pp. I42-145) divided the genus into two sections. De Candolle emphasized the fact that members of the section Apocarya differ in the construction of their axillary buds as follows. In Caryca arnara (= C. cordiformis K. Koch) the buds possess paired lateral valvate prophylls. In Carya aquatica and Carya olivaeformis (= C. pecan Asch. and Gr.), however, de Candolle stated that the prophylls of lateral buds are fused together, forming a sheath.4 Apparently unaware of D611's (op. cit.) earlier work, de Candolle, failed to comment on the prophylls of members of the section Eucarya. However, the bud diagram given of Carya porcina (= C. glabra. Sweet) clearly shows that in this species, the outermost scale of the axillary bud has a tubular character.5