cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of Glycine spp. on Competitiveness of Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Rhizobium fredii.

The displacement of indigenous Bradyrhizobium japonicum in soybean nodules with more effective strains offers the possibility of enhanced N2 fixation in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). Our objective was to determine whether the wild soybean (G. soja Sieb. & Zucc.) genotype PI 468397 would cause reduced competitiveness of important indigenous B. japonicum strains USDA 31, 76, and 123 and thereby permit nodulation by Rhizobium fredii, the fast-growing microsymbiont of soybean. In an initial experiment, PI 468397 nodulated and fixed moderate amounts of N2 with USDA 31 and 76 but, despite the formation of nodules, fixed essentially no N2 with USDA 123. In contrast, PI 468397 formed a highly effective symbiosis with R. fredii strain USDA 193. In two subsequent experiments, Williams soybean and PI 468397 were grown in a pasteurized soil mixture or in soybean rhizobium-free soil and inoculated with both USDA 123 and USDA 193. In each experiment, more than 90% of the nodules of Williams contained USDA 123, while only a maximum of 2% were occupied with USDA 193. In contrast, in the two experiments, 16 and 11%, respectively, of the nodules produced on PI 468397 were occupied by USDA 123, while in both experiments 87% contained USDA 193. Thus, in relation to the cultivar Williams, which is commonly grown and used as a parent in soybean breeding programs in the United States, PI 468397 substantially reduced the competitive ability of B. japonicum strain USDA 123 in relation to R. fredii strain USDA 193.
Comparison of Osteochondral Autografts and Allografts for Treatment of Recurrent or Large Talar Osteochondral Lesions

Background:The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate and compare the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of using osteochondral autograft and allograft to manage either recurrent or large osteochondral lesions of the talar dome (OLT) in a single surgeon’s practice.Methods:Between January 2008 and January 2014, a total of 40 patients presented with either a recurrent OLT that failed initial arthroscopic treatment (ie, excision, curettage, debridement, and micro-fracture) or a primary OLT greater than 1.5 cm2 that had undergone no prior surgery. Before surgery, 20 patients were randomized to receive osteochondral autograft plugs (Arthrex, Naples, FL) from the ipsilateral superolateral distal femoral condyle whereas the remaining 20 were randomized to receive osteochondral allograft plugs from a fresh size-matched donor talus (Joint Restoration Foundation, Centennial, CO, and Arthrex, Naples, FL), but 4 of these were excluded that received a hemi-talus allograft with internal fixation....
Josephson junctions in thin and narrow rectangular superconducting strips

I consider a Josephson junction crossing the middle of a thin rectangular superconducting strip of length $L$ and width $W$ subjected to a perpendicular magnetic induction $B$. I calculate the spatial dependence of the gauge-invariant phase difference across the junction and the resulting $B$ dependence of the critical current ${I}_{c}(B)$.
77-fs pulse generation from a stretched-pulse mode-locked all-fiber ring laser

By incorporating a section of large positive-dispersion fiber in an all-fiber erbium ring laser, we obtain high-energy pulses with spectral widths of 56 nm. The chirp on these pulses is highly linear and can be compensated for with dispersion in the output coupling fiber lead. The result is a fully self-starting source of 77-fs pulse with 90 pJ of energy and greater than 1 kW of peak power at a 45-MHz repetition rate.
Molecular indices of functional competence in developing T cells.

The development of mature T cells in the thymus involves changes in the regulation of numerous genes. In some cases genes are turned on or off, while in others they acquire the ability to be expressed in response to appropriate stimuli. One set of genes whose expression is initiated in the thymus encodes the T-cell receptor chains. Although surface T-cell receptor expression is a prerequisite for mature responsiveness, it is not sufficient. Mature T cells must also be able to induce the expression of various batteries of unlinked genes in response to antigenic stimulation. These inducible genes include interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-γ in some cells, interleukins-4 and -5 in others, perforins in still others, and the IL-2 receptor 55 kd chain, which must explain changes in the regulation of both constitutively expressed and inducible genes.
Philadelphia chromosome‐positive mature B‐cell (Burkitt cell) leukaemia

Mature B-cell or Burkitt’s-cell leukemias presenting with a L3 morphology according to the FAB classification (Bennett et al., 1976), and surface immunoglobulins together with B-cell markers have generally a good prognosis (Patte et al, 1991; Reiter et al., 1992; Reiter et al., 1995). The presence of a Philadelphia chromosome in a mature B-cell leukemia has rarely been observed (McKinley et al., 1986; Masauzi et al., 1997). Its occurrence is not only a therapeutic challenge but also gives room to speculations about multi-step leukemiogenesis.
Cost and Delivery Time Implications of Freight Consolidation and Warehousing Strategies

Freight consolidation across time and customers, use of warehouses, and direct LTL distribution systems are compared on distribution costs and delivery times for selected product characteristics and demand patterns. The results can assist managers in determining whether using freight consolidation is a viable alternative to direct shipments from plants or warehouses.
Managing employee separations with the reward system

Executive Overview While executives in many companies find it necessary to reduce the size of their workforces, some are starting to rethink their approach. Instead of forcing certain employees deemed redundant to quit, more participative approaches are now being used to influence certain employees to leave the firm. The pivotal aspect of these voluntary workforce reductions is the reward system which can provide incentives for workers to quit. This article explains how employee separations can be managed through designing and administrating specific pay and benefit policies. It also shows that by using the reward system to make employee separations a participative decision, management can avoid the potential threat of unwanted litigation.
RCS: a learning classifier system for evolutionary robotics

This paper introduces RCS, a learning classifier system designed for evolutionary robotics research. In addition to describing the system, it will present the results of RCS applied to a pursuit task. In this test, performance was good and has been improved in ongoing work.
Orbital dynamics of magnetospherically trapped lunar ejecta.

Abstract In situ measurements by dust experiments on HEOS II showed significant enhancement of fluxes for submicron particles. Recent studies have shown that lunar ejecta in this size range can, in a highly simplified model, be trapped in the earth's magnetosphere. The present work is a more detailed study of the dynamics of lunar ejecta in the magnetosphere. The particle size ranges for which the guiding center approximation is valid, for which corotation is negligible, and for which electromagnetic forces dominate gravitational forces have been calculated. Temporal details of charge acquisition by ejecta in the plasmasphere are considered.
Multi-dimensional credentialing using veiled certificates: Protecting privacy in the face of regulatory reporting requirements

Traditional certificates are designed to establish and document characteristics belonging to a specific individual, be it an identification number (i.e., social security number, driver's license number), a level of achievement (i.e., college degree, license to practice a profession), or membership status (i.e., company ID, trade union card). The digital certificate extends this concept into the electronic world, identifying and linking the certificate holder to a public encryption key that is subsequently used as a means of identification. Current identity certificates provide unique identification and tracking, however it is exactly these characteristics that have led to concerns over identity theft and privacy of personal information. The veiled certificate introduced in this paper addresses these issues by providing means of linking certificates from multiple certifying authorities while masking the user's identity from non-authorized individuals and satisfying the regulatory need of unique, explicit identification. With the ability to be implemented within existing X.509 standards, veiled certification extends traditional digital certificates with features useful in combating identity theft and invasion of privacy.
Home Birth Matters—For All Women

Although it remains rare in the United States, planned home birth has drawn increasing attention and criticism in the mainstream media and has come under attack from organized medicine. Yet, recent peer-reviewed studies contribute to the evidence base supporting home birth as a safe option for low-risk women attended by skilled midwives. The author of this editorial argues that home birth is an important cultural touchstone in the landscape of American maternity care.
Interpretation of Spectra of Atoms and Molecules in Solid Nitrogen Condensed at 4.2°K

The emission spectra observed from solids condensed at 4.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K from an electric discharge through nitrogen are explained by assuming that large numbers of nitrogen atoms are deposited in the process. Approximate calculations of the interactions of the atoms with the surrounding solid show that the observed shifts, splittings, and changes of half-life of some atomic lines have the proper direction and magnitude. Analysis of a new band system provides evidence for the formation of nitrogen molecules from atoms in the solid and provides information about a new electronic state of ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$ which may be the ${^{5}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{g}}^{+}$ state. On this basis a lower limit of 9.632 ev can be given to the heat of dissociation of nitrogen.
Carbonic anhydrase activity in amphibian and reptilian lung: a histochemical and biochemical analysis.

Using a recent histochemical technique, non-erythrocytic carbonic anhydrase activity was demonstrated in lungs of the frog (Rana pipiens), toad (Bufo marinus), and turtle (Pseudemys scripta). The distribution of the activity as observed by light microscopy strongly suggested that it was related specifically to the capillaries. Electron histochemical studies of the turtle lung verified the capillary endothelium as the location of this activity. Biochemical assay of perfused lungs, corrected for erythrocyte contamination, confirmed the occurrence of carbonic anhydrase in the lung tissue proper. This report thus presents further biological validation of recently published techniques for demonstrating carbonic anhydrase activity and is in accord with certain physiological aspects of these species that may necessitate the presence of this enzyme in cells immediately adjacent to pulmonary blood.
Survive and Persist: Amherst and Classical College Development during the Age of American University Proliferation

Throughout American history, institutions of higher education have faced difficult decisions relative to institutional survival, direction, and long-term relevance within a constantly changing and evolving higher education landscape. History has shown us that successive generations have had a significant and unique impact on the higher education landscape. The survival and flourishing of classical liberal arts colleges during the rise of universities during late 19 th century America marks an important moment in the history of higher education. This article will attempt to position the institutional developments of Amherst College within the context of Roger L. Geiger’s “The Ten Generations of American Higher Education” and simultaneously demonstrate the unwavering and remarkably durable institutional spirit that contributed to the survival of Amherst during the progressive rise and development of universities in America. Amherst’s survival and subsequent success is an example of how an educational institution can position itself for enduring success during a monumental change to the larger educational landscape.
Patterning Inorganic (CaCO3) Thin Films via a Polymer-Induced Liquid-Precursor Process

The biomimetic synthesis of patterned mineral thin films, based on a combination of the microcontact printing technique and a novel crystallization process called the polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) process, is demonstrated. The PILP process enables the deposition of smooth and continuous calcitic mineral films (up to 1500 nm in thickness) under low-temperature and aqueous-based processing conditions. The films are formed by deposition of colloidal droplets composed of a liquid-phase mineral precursor that is induced by a polymeric process-directing agent (polyaspartate or polyacrylate salts). The droplets can be preferentially deposited onto patterned substrates templated with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of alkanethiolate on gold. The droplets coalesce to form an amorphous mineral film, which then transforms (solidifies and crystallizes) while retaining the shape of the patterned template, providing a means for patterning the location and morphology of two-dimensional calcite crystals. A ver...
Why do all the flights leave at 8 am?: Competition and departure-time differentiation in airline markets

Abstract Theoretical models of spatial product differentiation indicate that firms face two opposing incentives: (1) minimize differentiation in order to “steal” customers from competitors, and (2) maximize differentiation in order to reduce price competition. Using data on U.S. airline departure times from 1975, when fares were regulated, and 1986, when fares were not regulated, we empirically estimate the effect of competition on differentiation. We find a negative relationship in both periods. In 1986, however, reductions in exogenous scheduling constraints increase differentiation, implying that firms may be differentiating their products where possible to reduce price competition. This effect is not apparent in the 1975 data.
Transporting a portable operating system: UNIX to an IBM minicomputer

The “portable” UNIX operating system was transported to an IBM Series/1 minicomputer. The process of transporting is described with emphasis on (1) adapting to the target machine architecture; (2) the selection of the approach taken to transporting; (3) a description of the problems encountered; (4) the degree of portability of the UNIX system; and (5) a summary of the portability lessons learned.
Level of Health Threat as a Moderator of Social Comparison Preferences1

The effects of level of health threat and level of perceived control on social comparison preferences were examined. Participants were led to believe that they had a cholesterol level that was either in the borderline high-risk range or in the high-risk range. Half the participants were told cholesterol was controllable, whereas the others were told it was not. Participants then rated their interest in 4 types of social comparison information. The results indicated an overall preference for upward comparison to gather useful information. Level of threat interacted significantly with direction of comparison. Comparison preferences were not affected by the control manipulation. The implications of the findings for theories of social comparison as a coping strategy are discussed.
Renal involvement in patients infected with HIV: Experience at San Francisco General Hospital

Renal involvement in patients infected with HIV: Experience at San Francisco General Hospital. A spectrum of renal abnormalities has been described in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) with or without signs of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). In particular, attention has focused on a nephropathy characterized clinically by nephrotic proteinuria and rapidly advancing renal insufficiency, and histologically by focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). To evaluate the relationship between HIV infection and structural renal disease, we reviewed all consultations between January 1982 and March 1988 to the Division of Nephrology at San Francisco General Hospital (SFGH), a municipal hospital treating approximately one-third of AIDS cases in San Francisco. Seventy-three consultation requests were received during this period regarding patients with AIDS (48), AIDS-Related Complex (23), or asymptomatic HIV infection (2). Of these, 27 gave evidence of structural renal disease (Group I): 14 had chronic renal insufficiency, in 10 of whom nephrotic proteinuria was also present. However, progression of renal insufficiency to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in this group did not follow the rapid course described for HIV-associated nephropathy. Renal tissue was examined in 11 Group I patients and showed FSGS in four and a variety of acute and chronic glomerular and tubulointerstitial changes in the others. In 46 Group II patients, consultation was requested for acute renal failure or fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base disturbances. We also reviewed 91 consecutive autopsies performed in patients dying with AIDS at SFGH between 1981 and 1986. Only three patients had significant glomerular abnormalities, and all had been seen in consultation before death; one patient not seen by us in consultation had significant proteinuria during life but normal glomeruli by light microscopy at autopsy. These observations confirm that HIV-infected patients may develop a variety of structural lesions in addition to FSGS, and show that FSGS, when it occurs, is not uniformly accompanied by rapid progression to ESRD. The reasons for this difference from experience reported by other centers may relate to a lower proportion of blacks and of patients with intravenous drug abuse as an AIDS risk factor seen at SFGH.
Jesus, Peyote, and the Holy People: Alcohol Abuse and the Ethos of Power in Navajo Healing

Of the three religious healing traditions that coexist within the contemporary Navajo health care system, the Native American Church (NAC) and Pentecostal Christianity are more actively involved in the treatment of alcohol and substance abuse than is Traditional Navajo healing. This article examines these two more recent healing traditions as religious responses to the contemporary Navajo crisis of alcohol and substance abuse as well as to socioeconomic changes. These traditions offer new kinds of power, social networks, and personal meaning that facilitate a transformation of self, a revitalized sense of community, and a new vision of the possibilities of the future for Navajo people who suffer. Examining the ethos of power that underlies Navajo healing can complement the theoretical emphasis on harmony and beauty in anthropological research on Navajo culture and religion.
The Democratization of Semantic Properties: An Analysis of Semantic Wikis

Semantic wikis augment wikis with semantic properties that can be used to aggregate and query data through reasoning. Semantic wikis are used by many communities, for widely varying purposes such as organizing genomic knowledge, coding software, and tracking environmental data. Although wikis have been analyzed extensively, there has been no published analysis of the use of semantic wikis. In this paper, we analyze twenty semantic wikis selected for their diverse characteristics and content. We analyze the property edits and compare to the total number of edits in the wiki. We also show how semantic properties are created over the lifetime of the wiki.
Parametric study of single expansion ramp nozzles at subsonic/transonic speeds

The Langley Research Center has conducted a parametric investigation to determine the aeropropulsive characteristics of single expansion ramp nozzles (SERN). The SERN is a nonaxisymmetric, variable-area, internal/external expansion exhaust nozzle. Internal nozzle parameters that were varied included upper ramp length, ramp chordal angle, lower flap length, flap angle and the axial and vertical locations of nozzle throat. Convergent-divergent and convergent nozzles were included in this investigation which was conducted in the Langley 16-Foot Transonic Tunnel at Mach numbers from 0.6 to 1.2 and at nozzle pressure ratios up to 12.0.
Photopolymers in orthopedics: characterization of novel crosslinked polyanhydrides

Novel, high modulus, degradable polymers were prepared from methacrylated anhydride monomers of tricarballylic acid (MTCA) and pyromellitylimidoalanine (MPMA-ala). Kinetic studies indicate that the time scale of photopolymerization of MTCA (< 30 s) is suitable for in vivo applications. Additionally, the tensile modulus of copolymers of these novel monomers with methacrylic anhydride (MA) ranged from 0.8 to 2.1 GPa, which lies between the modulus of trabecular and cortical bone. Degradation studies indicate that the copolymers of MTCA and MPMA-ala with MA are initially surface degrading, which is important to maintaining polymer strength through the degradation process. Monomers such as these that can be rapidly polymerized using ultraviolet or blue light into high modulus degradable materials have great potential in orthopedics.
EFFECT OF AMMONIATION ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF PEANUT AND COTTONSEED MEALS

Peanut and cottonseed meals prepared from seed inoculated with A. parasiticus were treated in a laboratory ammoniator under three sets of heat and pressure. Detoxification of the meal was similar for all treatments. Nitrogen solubility, methionine, lysine, available lysine, sugars, immunochemical and gel-electrophoretic protein patterns were measured on all samples. Differences between the unammoniated meals and those treated under the mildest conditions of heat and pressure were negligible. Meals ammoniated under the harsher conditions showed reductions in methionine, lysine, and available lysine contents and in free sugars as well as changes in nitrogen solubility and gel-electrophoretic patterns.
Coping with Disillusionment, Abstract Images, and Uncertainty in Career Decision Making

The author examines sources of disillusionment and uncertainty in college students' career thinking.
Influence functional from a bath of coupled time-dependent harmonic oscillators

The influence functional from a heat bath consisting of coupled harmonic oscillators of time-dependent frequency and coupling constants is derived. Like its time-independent counterpart, the present influence functional also involves the force-force autocorrelation function of the bath.
Endoscopic management of persistent lymphocele following laparoscopic pelvic lymphadenectomy.

Abstract Objective. To report an alternative form of management of a persistent lymphocele that was unresponsive to percutaneous drainage and ethanol sclerotherapy. Methods. Herein is described the technique of dilating the previously established percutaneous established percutaneous drainage tract to facilitate insertion of a flexible ureteroscope. Through this instrument drainage tract to facilitate insertion of a flexible uretorescope. Through this instrument electrosurgical fulguration of the lymphocele cavity was performed. Results. The patient had complete resolution of the lymphocele cavity on computed tomography (CT) scan and remains asymptomatic at six months of follow-up. Conclusions. Flexible ureteroscopic access and fulguration of a lymphocele proved to be a safe and effective method of obliterating the lymphocele cavity.
Response to S. Beyea's “Nursing Diagnosis or Patient Problem?”

Viewpoint provides a forum for scholarly discussion about the theoretical, philosophical, and practical issues related to nursing language and classification systems. The sometimes controversial views are intended to stimulate readers' comments and perspectives. We welcome brief, informal responses to published viewpoints. If you have a viewpoint you want to submit, or if you want to discuss it beforehand, contact the column editor: judithwilkins@att.net; 913.631.1089.
On AdS/CFT without massless gravitons

Abstract We point out that it is possible to define CFT duals to AdS theories with massive gravitons only. This is achieved by considering the product of two or more CFTs on the boundary, each possessing a large-N expansion and a corresponding bulk dual. It is possible to couple the CFTs through a marginal perturbation that makes all but one of the bulk gravitons massive. In the infinite-N limit for one of the CFTs the massless graviton decouples.
The NAD + -dependent protein deacetylase activity of SIRT1 is regulated by its oligomeric status

SIRT1, a NAD(+)-dependent protein deacetylase, is an important regulator in cellular stress response and energy metabolism. While the list of SIRT1 substrates is growing, how the activity of SIRT1 is regulated remains unclear. We have previously reported that SIRT1 is activated by phosphorylation at a conserved Thr522 residue in response to environmental stress. Here we demonstrate that phosphorylation of Thr522 activates SIRT1 through modulation of its oligomeric status. We provide evidence that nonphosphorylated SIRT1 protein is aggregation-prone in vitro and in cultured cells. Conversely, phosphorylated SIRT1 protein is largely in the monomeric state and more active. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism for environmental regulation of SIRT1 activity, which may have important implications in understanding the molecular mechanism of stress response, cell survival, and aging.
Sloshing response of layered liquids in rigid tanks

Whereas the response to earthquakes of tanks containing a uniform, homogeneous liquid has been the subject of numerous studies in recent years, there is a paucity of information concerning the corresponding response of tanks containing layers of liquid of different densities. Current interest in the response of tanks with layered liquids is motivated by two factors: (1) many waste storage tanks in nuclear facilities contain two or more layers of liquid or liquid-like material of different densities; and (2) recent processing for the recovery and decontamination of discharge fuel materials is typically carried out in tanks containing two-layered liquids. The sloshing action of layered liquids in rigid cylindrical and long rectangular tanks is investigated considering both their free vibrational characteristics and their response to a horizontal component of base shaking. Special attention is given to the maximum surface displacement induced by the base motion. The analysis is formulated for systems with N superimposed layers of different thicknesses and densities, and it is illustrated by a numerical example. In addition, comprehensive numerical data are presented for two-layered and some three-layered systems which elucidate the underlying response mechanisms and the effects and relative importance of the numerous parameters involved. It is shownmore » that for each horizontal natural mode of vibration, there are N distinct vertical modes, the frequencies of which are lower than the natural frequency of a homogeneous liquid of the same total depth. It is further shown that the maximum surface sloshing displacement of the base-excited layered system is typically larger than of the corresponding homogeneous system, and that the results for the long rectangular and the cylindrical tanks are quite similar.« less
Using FMRI and FNIRS for localization and monitoring of visual cortex activities

The purpose of this study was to design a near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) sensor head to continuously monitor visual cortex activation. Visual cortex activation regions as a result of eye movements were localized using functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI). Once the region was determined we placed the NIRS sensor head on that region and emulated the same task performed in the FMRI experiment. The eye movement chosen for our current validation study was saccades. One subject was instructed to move their eyes in a saccadic fashion for 30 seconds then fixate for 30 seconds. We were able to see changes in oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglin using the NIRS design. These preliminary results suggest that NIRS can be used as a monitoring tool, guided by FMRI in patients who may have visual disorders.
The viscoelastic constitutive modelling of adhesives

Abstract An analytical viscoelastic model is presented which allows the prediction of stress/strain response of an adhesive from zero stress to and including failure or rupture. A linear version based on a modified Bingham model is compared to the measured response of neat bulk tensile specimens and symmetric single lap shear specimens. A single integral non-linear adaptation is compared to measured neat bulk tensile response. The need for such a time-dependent constitutive and failure model is assessed. The ability to include environmental parameters in a time/temperature-shifting sense is also suggested.
The Public Wants Information, Not Board Mandates, From Comparative Effectiveness Research

We conducted two national surveys of public opinion about comparative effectiveness research and the integration of findings from the research into clinical practice. The first survey found broad support for using research results to provide information, but less support for using them to allocate government resources or mandate treatment decisions. In addition, the public is willing to consider the use of financial incentives to encourage patients to choose cheaper treatments, if research demonstrates that they work as well as more expensive ones. The second survey found that support for comparative effectiveness research dropped in response to general debates about its consequences but that arguments against the research could be effectively countered by specific, targeted rebuttals.
Convergence in the Hausdorff metric of estimators of irregular densities, using Fourier-Cesàro approximation

Abstract The problem of estimating a density which is allowed to have discontinuities of the first kind is considered. The usual Fourier-type estimator is based on the Dirichlet or sine kernel and is not suitable to eliminate the Gibbs phenomenon. Fourier-Cesaro approximation yields the Fejer kernel which is the square of the sine function. Density estimators based on the Fejer kernel do control the Gibbs phenomenon. Integral metrics are not sufficiently sensitive to properly assess the performance of estimators of irregular signals. Therefore, we use the Hausdorff distance between the extended, closed, graphs of estimator and estimand, and derive an a.s. speed of convergence of this distance.
Local neutrophil influx following lateral fluid-percussion brain injury in rats is associated with accumulation of complement activation fragments of the third component (C3) of the complement system

Traumatic brain injury can lead to locally destructive secondary events mediated by several inflammatory components. Following lateral fluid-percussion (FP) brain injury in rats, we examined cortical and hippocampal sections for neutrophil infiltration and accumulation of complement component C3. Neutrophil influx into the brain after injury was detected by an improved myeloperoxidase (MPO) microassay and manual cell counting, while C3 accumulation was detected using immunocytochemistry. MPO levels were elevated in the injured cortical tissue, whereas C3 immunoreactivity was increased in both injured cortical and ipsilateral hippocampal sections. These results show that the FP model of head injury leads to an intense local inflammatory reaction and subsequent tissue destruction.
Nonlinear Optical Microscopy and Spectroscopy of Articular Cartilage

Nonlinear optical microscopy is used to image living articular cartilage in situ without exogenous stains or dyes. Endogenous nonlinear optical signals may be used for image segmentation and to evaluate articular cartilage matrix health.
Group Testing in Medical Education: An Assessment of Group Dynamics, Student Acceptance, and Effect on Student Performance

Our institution uses a model of group testing in which students retake exam questions in a group after submitting individual answers. We examined the effects of group testing on exam performance and group dynamics. Students scored higher after discussing the questions. When the same cohort of students was allowed to submit an independent answer one year and then required to achieve consensus the next, the improvement in their performance after discussion did not change. 83.1% of students reported teaching during the group exam. 65.1% reported groups achieve unanimity “often”; 56.4% reported feeling pressured by peers. While in preformed groups, personal stress was decreased in 44% of respondents and there was less conflict in 60% of respondents compared to randomly formed groups. Hostility was three times more likely in a random group than a pre-formed group (37% vs. 12%). Both teaching and seeking clarification occurred more often in pre-formed groups. These data suggest that group testing can be used to enhance student performance, understanding, and retention. However some students feel pressured and find these groups to be hostile environments. Testing within a pre-formed group may provide students with an opportunity to teach each other with decreased stress and anxiety.
Comparison of the sensitivity of a pre-MRI questionnaire and point of care eGFR testing for detection of impaired renal function.

Rationale and Objectives The Food and Drug Administration recommends renal function estimation using laboratory testing for patients at risk for chronically reduced kidney function before the administration of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs). Point-of-care (POC) estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) testing was added to the pre-magnetic resonance (MR) questionnaire at our institution in June 2008 for all patients undergoing a contrast-enhanced MR exam. This study was done to evaluate the effectiveness of a pre-MR screening questionnaire about kidney disease and to assess POC eGFR detection of additional patients at risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.
Generalized-stacking-fault energy surface and dislocation properties of aluminum

We have employed the semidiscrete variational generalized Peierls-Nabarro model to study the dislocation properties of aluminum. The generalized-stacking-fault (GSF) energy surface entering the model is calculated by using first-principles density functional theory (DFT) and the embedded-atom method (EAM). Various core properties, including the core width, dissociation behavior, energetics, and Peierls stress for different dislocations have been investigated. The correlation between the core energetics and the Peierls stress with the dislocation character has been explored. Our results reveal a simple relationship between the Peierls stress and the ratio between the core width and the atomic spacing. The dependence of the core properties on the two methods for calculating the GSF energy (DFT vs EAM) has been examined. Although the EAM gives the general trend for various dislocation properties, it fails to predict the correct finer core structure, which in turn can affect the Peierls stress significantly (about one order of magnitude). (c) 2000 The American Physical Society.
Detection efficiency of Ge(Li) and HPGe detectors for γ-rays up to 10 MeV

We have calibrated the relative efficiency up to 9.7 MeV for two coaxial detectors, one Ge(Li) and one high purity Ge. The efficiency curves were determined by using a combination of standard radioactive sources and (n, γ) reactions. Based on the result of this work, the general slope of the two detector efficiency curves appears to be similar and in agreement with earlier work reported by McCallum and Coote. When plotted as a semilogarithmic function of energy the efficiency is linear from 2 to 9.7 MeV.
Web browsing and spyware intrusion

Spyware poses serious privacy and security issues to users of e-commerce and m-commerce [3, 5, 8]. Microsoft claims that half of all computer crashes reported by its customers were caused by spyware and its equivalents. Spyware is also responsible for about 12% of all technical support calls and accounts for the biggest category of customer complaints, according to Dell [1].
All Phox Homology (PX) Domains from Saccharomyces cerevisiae Specifically Recognize Phosphatidylinositol 3-Phosphate

Phox homology (PX) domains are named for a 130-amino acid region of homology shared with part of two components of the phagocyte NADPH oxidase (phox) complex. They are found in proteins involved in vesicular trafficking, protein sorting, and lipid modification. It was recently reported that certain PX domains specifically recognize phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PtdIns-3-P) and drive recruitment of their host proteins to the cytoplasmic leaflet of endosomal and/or vacuolar membranes where this phosphoinositide is enriched. We have analyzed phosphoinositide binding by all 15 PX domains encoded by the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome. All yeast PX domains specifically recognize PtdIns-3-P in protein-lipid overlay experiments, with just one exception (a significant sequence outlier). In surface plasmon resonance studies, four of the yeast PX domains bind PtdIns-3-P with high (micromolar range) affinity. Although the remaining PX domains specifically recognize PtdIns-3-P, they bind this lipid with only low affinity. Interestingly, many proteins with "low affinity" PX domains are known to form large multimeric complexes, which may increase the overall avidity for membranes. Our results establish that PtdIns-3-P, and not other phosphoinositides, is the target of all PX domains in S. cerevisiae and suggest a role for PX domains in assembly of multiprotein complexes at specific membrane surfaces.
Technical note The influence of air entrainment on the properties of silica fume concrete

An experimental study on fresh and hardened properties of silica fume concrete containing air-entraining agent was performed. Silica fume content ranged from 0 to 20% by mass of the cementitious materials (cement plus silica fume). Air content in fresh mix concrete ranged between 2 and IS%. Fresh mix properties were characterized by determining the slump and air content. Hardened material properties such as compressive and flexural strength and permeability were investigated. Test results showed that air entrainment reduces the mechanical properties of silica fume concrete. It was also shown that air entrainment has a minimal effect on the permeability of concrete with high silica fume content.
First measurement of J/ψ anisotropy by PHENIX experiment at RHIC

Understanding the J/ψ suppression and possible recombination mechanisms at RHIC is one of the outstanding challenges for theorists and experimentalists. Recent results provided by PHENIX showed a stronger suppression at forward rapidity, while at mid-rapidity the suppression is similar to lower energy collision experiments. A large sample of Au + Au collisions at \( \sqrt {s_{NN} } \) = 200 GeV was collected in 2007 with the PHENIX experiment at RHIC. Using this sample, J/ψs were identified in the di-electron decay channel. In order to probe the charm coalescence as an additional J/ψ production mechanism at RHIC, we studied the first determination of its v2 elliptic flow parameter at mid-rapidity.
Group-specific component (Gc) proteins bind vitamin D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D

Group-specific component (Gc) proteins are human plasma proteins for which a worldwide polymorphism exists. As yet no functional role has been assigned this protein. We show that the products of both Gc alleles, proteins Gc 1 and Gc 2 (distinguished electrophoretically), bind substantial quantities of vitamin D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Three lines of evidence are reported: (1) Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and autoradiography of serum labeled with (14-C)vitamin D3 revealed patterns of radioactive bands identical to those expected of the two Gc alleles. Population gene frequencies for these proteins binding vitamin D were in the range of those reported for Gc, and individuals of known Gc phenotype were found to have the corresponding vitamin-D-binding phenotype. (2) Immunoelectrophoresis and autoradiography of labeled serum reacted against antiserum to human Gc revealed labeling by (14-C)vitamin D3 of Gc-antibody precipitation ares. (3) (14-C)vitamin D3 or 25-hydroxy(3-H)vitamin D3 was found to coprecipitate specifically with Gc in serum incubated with Gc antiserum. Use of these techniques demonstrated further that plasma proteins that bind vitamin D and that are immunologically similar to human Gc are found in mouse, rat, cow, horse, dog, rhesus monkey, and chimpanzee. We propose that Gc and "vitamin-D-binding alpha-globulin" are in fact the same portein, and that the ability of Gc to bind vitamin D may be directly related to the action of selection on this locus. These techniques may also find application in the study of other plasms transport proteins.
Ethnicity of Defendants and Jurors as Influences on Jury Decisions1

To assess the influence of ethnicity on jury decisions, 480 subjects viewed a videotaped trial of an Anglo or Hispanic defendant. Anglo or Hispanic majority 6-person juries deliberated until a unanimous verdict was reached. The juries that convicted the defendant were asked to determine sentence length and to provide a probation/ parole recommendation. Anglo majority juries convicted the defendant significantly more (M= 79%) than did the Hispanic majority juries (M= 52%), x2= 5.45, p < 0.02. No main effect of defendant ethnicity was obtained, but there was an interaction between the defendant and the jury's ethnicity, x2= 5.41, p < 0.02. Anglo majority juries were more lenient with the Anglo defendant, but the Hispanic majority juries did not differ in their conviction rates. No significant effects were obtained for sentence length. Differences in probation/parole recommendations were a function of jury ethnicity, F(l, 15) = 4.74, p < 0.05. Anglos were more likely to recommend that the defendant serve the full term of the sentence. These results are interpreted in terms of stereotyping and are discussed regarding their implications for a defendant's constitutional right to a fair trial.
Behavior of iron-, indium-, and iodine-labeled transferrin.

SummaryFetal and placental uptakes after administration of 59Fe-, 113mIn-, and 125I-transferrins at various stages of gestation in the rat have been studied. In the latter third of pregnancy 50Fe went to the fetus in large amounts, but, in contrast, 113mIn accumulated in the placenta. Only small quantities of 125I-transferrin reached the fetus, and considerably less 125I than 113mIn was found in placenta. It is concluded that transferrin does not carry iron across the placenta and that indium is removed from transferrin by the placenta, but does not cross to the fetus.
Pluralistic Deficit and Direct Claims to European Constitutional Courts

Pluralistic deficit is connected to the difficulties of representing individual and collective interests. From this perspective, access to European Constitutional Tribunals, particularly in the newest Central and Eastern European countries, is broadly guaranteed to persons or organizations, such as constitutional bodies, territorial entities, political parties, labor unions, socioeconomic organizations, and religious associations. With few exceptions, such as Italy and France, European legal systems confer on citizens the option to resort to constitutional courts directly. Where individual direct access is regulated, constitutional jurisdiction works at the ideal level. This brief approach makes it difficult to discuss pluralistic deficit with reference to constitutional tribunals because the growth of individual and social rights runs parallel to their judicial protection through different sorts of instruments (extensive access, more competencies, expansion of parameters, and types of sentences). But this situation also produces a paradox: a generalized tendency to increase access to constitutional justice risks diminished accuracy in judgment, prevision of summary proceedings, and minor legal guarantees, as I explain below. In this way, public control and transparency—which are factors strictly connected to pluralism and used to anticipate the outcome of cases and
Prophylactic cranial irradiation: Advantages and disadvantages

Anaplastic small cell carcinoma of the lung is a disease that responds to multiagent systemic therapy. Unfortunately, a high incidence of central nervous system (CNS) relapse has been observed by many investigators. Cranial irradiation has been successfully used in acute lymphoblastic leukemia to reduce CNS relapse and improve survival. A similar application of prophylactic cranial irradiation in patients undergoing therapy for small cell anaplastic carcinoma of the lung has been noted to decrease CNS relapse from approximately 25% to approximately 5%. However, CNS toxicity has been noted to occur with CNS prophylaxis. We can reduce the incidence of CNS toxicity by using modern treatment schedules and avoiding the use of doxorubicin with irradiation. Prophylactic cranial irradiation delivered to those patients who obtain a complete remission in response to induction chemotherapy can reduce the incidence of CNS relapse and can usually be delivered with minimal CNS toxicity. Unfortunately, long-term disease control with systemic agents is poor. Until more effective systemic agents are developed, the role of prophylactic cranial irradiation is one of palliation rather than improving survival.
Does the combination of aprotinin and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor cause renal failure after cardiac surgery?

Background Aprotinin use in cardiac surgery has been associated with mild elevations in serum creatinine but generally has not been associated with an increase in the risk of acute renal failure. In the presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, however, aprotinin may contribute to significant reductions in glomerular perfusion pressure. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that the combination of ACE inhibitors and aprotinin cause renal failure after cardiac surgery. Methods The study consisted of a retrospective investigation of all adult patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft, valve, or combined procedures during the years 2000 to 2002 at a single institution. Aprotinin was administered selectively for reoperations, combined procedures, and other operations deemed to be at higher risk for bleeding. Excluded from analysis were patients with preoperative serum creatinine greater than 1.5 mg/dL, a history of renal failure, emergent or salvage procedures, preoperative use of intraaortic balloon pump, and off-pump procedures. Perioperative renal failure was defined as creatinine greater than 2.0 mg/dL within 72 hours of surgery. Preoperative demographic and intraoperative variables were analyzed with univariate and logistic regression analysis with odds ratio (OR) and bootstrap validation. Results A total of 1,209 patients were included. The incidence of perioperative renal failure was 3.5%, and mortality in this group was 48%. Controlling for other demographic and intraoperative variables that may affect renal function (age, sex, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, New York Heart Association class, prior cardiac surgery, valve procedures, cardiopulmonary bypass time, aortic cross-clamp time, lowest hematocrit during cardiopulmonary bypass, transfusions) the preoperative use of ACE inhibitors along with intraoperative use of aprotinin was significantly associated with acute renal failure (OR 2.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4 to 5.8, p p = 0.035), valve procedure (OR 2.7, CI: 1.3 to 5.7, p = 0.016), lowest hematocrit on cardiopulmonary bypass (OR 2.2, CI: 1.6 to 3.2, p p p = 0.001). Conclusions The combination of preoperative use of ACE inhibitors and intraoperative use of aprotinin should be avoided in cardiac surgery.