cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
U.S. Supreme Court Amicus Brief of Civil Procedure Professors in Support of Respondents, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. v. Dukes, No. 10-277

The class action device is essential to a well-functioning system of justice because of its ability to balance the values of access to the courts and efficient adjudication of disputes. This was the vision of the drafters of Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23. This Court can and should interpret Rule 23's text in a way that vindicates these overarching goals.Particularly in an adjudicative class action, the certification motion needs to be understood as a preliminary step that is complimented by motions to dismiss and summary judgment motions. The aim of class certification is not to screen out suits that fail even to allege a claim for relief (that is for motions to dismiss), nor to issue dispositive rulings on the merits (that is the purpose of summary judgment or trial). Instead, it is to determine whether the purposes of the class action rule would be served by proceeding with a collective litigation.The district court case did not abuse its discretion in concluding that the proposed class met the requirements of Rule 23(a). In fact, the court’s attention to the detailed pleadings and the extensive evidence gathered by the parties in assessing whether the named plaintiffs’ claims shared common questions of law or fact with claims of absent class members showed a level of rigorous evaluation that went beyond the 23(a) threshold. Classification of the class under 23(b)(2) was also appropriate under the Federal Rules. Petitioner’s contrary arguments ignore the text, purpose and history of Rule 23.
Blast cell colony assay for umbilical cord blood and adult bone marrow progenitors

We previously described candidate human blast cell colonies in culture of umbilical cord blood cells. However, their replating efficiencies were low, and we were unable to grow colonies from adult marrow cells. We report here a consistent method of growth and identification of human blast cell colonies that are supported by low serum culture and by delayed addition of medium conditioned by a T lymphoblast cell line, C5MJ. Nonadherent mononuclear cord blood and bone marrow cells were prepared by use of Ficoll-Paque and overnight adherence to plastic. Bone marrow cells were further enriched for progenitors by panning with monoclonal anti-My-10 antibody. Cells were plated in methylcellulose culture containing 2% fetal calf serum and supplemented with bovine serum albumin, lecithin, cholesterol, and transferrin. On day 14 of culture, concentrated C5MJ-conditioned medium was carefully added to each dish. Blast cell colonies consisting of 18 to 100 cells were detected on days 21 to 28. Forty percent to 75% of the blast cell colonies in individual samples yielded secondary colonies upon replating (positive colonies). The replating efficiency of the positive colonies ranged from 3% to 100%. The largest secondary colony contained 7,800 cells. In addition to single-lineage colonies, multilineage colonies revealing two to five lineage combinations were seen. These results suggest that human primitive progenitors are dormant in cell cycle and that they survive in the absence of colony-stimulating factors. Human blast cell colonies may provide a unique population of progenitors for studies of the early process of human hemopoiesis.
Combined endoscopic video tracking and virtual 3D CT registration for surgical guidance

Bronchoscopic needle biopsy is a common step for early lung-cancer detection. This procedure uses two steps: (1) 3D computed-tomography (CT) chest image analysis, to choose a biopsy site; (2) live bronchoscopy, to perform the biopsy. CT-based virtual endoscopic analysis can improve the results of biopsies, yet errors can still occur. We describe a procedure to combine the endoscopic video tracking (the "real" world) and CT-based virtual endoscopic registration (the "virtual" world). By bringing both sources of information together, a more robust surgical guidance system is realizable. Both the endoscope's video and the thoracic CT scan are used as data sources in the tracking. An optical flow algorithm estimates the endoscope motion between successive video frames. The virtual CT rendering creates a range map for the optical flow equation. This simplifies the endoscope movement calculation into a straightforward linear system. We demonstrate this method for a phantom human airway-tree example.
A Practical Guide for Opening Your Business

This chapter is presented as a practical guide for opening a new business. “Don't burn bridges”, a generally good advice for living, is particularly important as one launches into a business, where both reputation, and the integrity of professional relationships are likely to make a significant difference to the success of his or her practice, happiness, and peace of mind. One should not destroy, weaken, sully, or abandon prior working relationships because they have no further interest or use for those past connections. When developing plans for leaving an institution, one should give the employer plenty of advance notice so that a replacement can be recruited. He or she should not take business from prior place of employment, and should do what can be done to smoothen the transition of the new employee, if that is at all feasible. One never knows what the future may hold. Although one cannot imagine it now but he or she may want to return one day to this previous institution. Further, other practitioners of art and science should not be disparaged, regardless of their affiliation. This may seems obvious, but it can be a particularly tempting impulse when called as an expert witness and discovering that a neuropsychologist on the other side has written an inflammatory opinion in response to one's findings and report. One should also try to remember that an expert witness is a neutral witness as one is there to accurately present and interpret the data to the best of their ability. Competent people can disagree on their interpretation but there is no need to destroy someone else's reputation to prove their own point. The wise response would be to disagree politely, present arguments as effectively as possible, and move on.
In vitro cytotoxicity of Manville Code 100 glass fibers: Effect of fiber length on human alveolar macrophages

Synthetic vitreous fibers (SVFs) are inorganic noncrystalline materials widely used in residential and industrial settings for insulation, filtration, and reinforcement purposes. SVFs conventionally include three major categories: fibrous glass, rock/slag/stone (mineral) wool, and ceramic fibers. Previous in vitro studies from our laboratory demonstrated length-dependent cytotoxic effects of glass fibers on rat alveolar macrophages which were possibly associated with incomplete phagocytosis of fibers ≥ 17 μm in length. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of fiber length on primary human alveolar macrophages, which are larger in diameter than rat macrophages, using length-classified Manville Code 100 glass fibers (8, 10, 16, and 20 μm). It was hypothesized that complete engulfment of fibers by human alveolar macrophages could decrease fiber cytotoxicity; i.e. shorter fibers that can be completely engulfed might not be as cytotoxic as longer fibers. Human alveolar macrophages, obtained by segmental bronchoalveolar lavage of healthy, non-smoking volunteers, were treated with three different concentrations (determined by fiber number) of the sized fibers in vitro. Cytotoxicity was assessed by monitoring cytosolic lactate dehydrogenase release and loss of function as indicated by a decrease in zymosan-stimulated chemiluminescence. Microscopic analysis indicated that human alveolar macrophages completely engulfed glass fibers of the 20 μm length. All fiber length fractions tested exhibited equal cytotoxicity on a per fiber basis, i.e. increasing lactate dehydrogenase and decreasing chemiluminescence in the same concentration-dependent fashion. The data suggest that due to the larger diameter of human alveolar macrophages, compared to rat alveolar macrophages, complete phagocytosis of longer fibers can occur with the human cells. Neither incomplete phagocytosis nor length-dependent toxicity was observed in fiber-exposed human macrophage cultures. In contrast, rat macrophages exhibited both incomplete phagocytosis of long fibers and length-dependent toxicity. The results of the human and rat cell studies suggest that incomplete engulfment may enhance cytotoxicity of fiber glass. However, the possibility should not be ruled out that differences between human versus rat macrophages other than cell diameter could account for differences in fiber effects.
The mucopolysaccharidoses: characterization by cranial MR imaging.

PURPOSE To characterize MR findings in mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), to aid in diagnosis and categorization, and to define the role of MR in preoperative evaluation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six children with Hurler syndrome (MPS IH), five with Hunter syndrome (MPS II), and three with Sanfilippo A syndrome (MPS IIIA) were studied by routine T1-weighted and T2-weighted images at 1.5 T. MR findings were graded retrospectively. RESULTS All had hallmark cribriform changes (sieve-like or multicystic) involving peri- and supraventricular, parietal, white matter (12), corpus callosum (8), and basal ganglia (4), which did not enhance. The cerebellum and brain stem were not involved with these cribriform changes. The most severe degree of cribriform changes occurred in children with Hunter and Hurler syndromes, correlating with non-central nervous system somatic involvement, but inversely related to degree of atrophy, ventricular enlargement, and white matter changes. Mental retardation was most severe in children with Hurler syndrome and correlated with chronicity of the disease. Severity of mental retardation did not correlate with severity of cribriform changes. CONCLUSIONS Based on our observations, we postulate that in the natural course of MPS, cribriform changes occurred first, followed by white-matter changes and, last, atrophy. More severe degrees of cribriform changes plus involvement of the corpus callosum may suggest a poorer prognosis. Optimal therapeutic intervention may be at the time of cribriform changes before atrophy has occurred. MR can define and grade these changes.
Replica placement in a dynamic network

We study the problem of placement of replicas of a database (or a shared resource) in a dynamic network. We develop a set of protocols that maintain a path from each site to its nearest replica such that the cost of accessing the nearest replica is below a certain threshold. The protocols determine the number of replicas needed and the sites where these replicas must be placed. This is useful in read-intensive applications which impose time constraints on read operations. The protocols reconfigure the placement in response to changes in link costs. This may involve recomputing paths and relocating, adding or removing replicas. >
Antidotes for high complexity and ambiguity in software development

In a longitudinal study of 47 software development teams, we investigate interactions between team and technology factors and the degree of complexity and ambiguity of the projects themselves. From the literature, we propose a theoretical model that identifies a characteristic of the technology (modularity) and a characteristic of the team process (conflict resolution) used during system development, as effective for minimizing the adverse effects of high task-based complexity and ambiguity (those tasks for which multiple acceptable solutions exist). We hypothesize that modularity and conflict-resolution techniques will account for a significant amount of the variance in user satisfaction for highly complex and ambiguous projects, but that this will not be the case for simple and unambiguous projects. Our findings confirm this hypothesis, indicating that effective conflict resolution and modularity are associated with significantly higher client satisfaction six months after implementation for all projects. An explanation for these findings is offered, followed by implications for theorists and practitioners.
The effects of a course in cadaver dissection on resident knowledge of pelvic anatomy: An experimental study

Objective To determine whether a course in cadaver dissection can significantly increase resident knowledge of pelvic anatomy beyond that of current educational practices. Methods Thirteen first- and second-year residents were randomly assigned to a cadaver dissection course (seven) or a control group (six). The dissection group performed dissections with instruction, using a dissection guide designed specifically for the course. The control group received study references on pelvic anatomy and protected study time. Each participant took a practical and written examination at the beginning and end of the study. Results The two groups did not differ statistically in their scores on the pre-test. Both groups improved on the posttest, but the dissection group scored nearly 50% higher on the test than did the controls. The two groups differed significantly on the post-test, adjusted for pre-test performance ( P Conclusion Dissection of a human cadaver provides a valuable experience, allowing participants to gain a greater understanding of surgical anatomy and surgical procedures in a no-risk, unhurried setting. Residents who participated in a cadaver dissection course designed specifically for their needs showed a statistically significant increase in knowledge compared with those without this experience. Both objectively and subjectively, a cadaver dissection course is an excellent tool for instructing gynecology residents.
Myofibroblast cells are preferentially expressed early in a rabbit model of joint contracture

Studies have demonstrated increased myofibroblasts in contractures. However, the timeline is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the number of myofibroblasts in contracting joint capsules at 3-time points over a 24-week period. Eighteen rabbits subjected to a surgical procedure designed to elicit a knee joint contracture were divided into three groups of six. Rabbits were sacrificed at each respective time point and myofibroblasts in the joint capsules were quantified using immunohistochemistry. The percent of myofibroblasts was significantly elevated in the operated limbs compared to the control limbs at 2 weeks (20% vs. 7%, respectively; p = 0.014). There was no difference in the percent of myofibroblasts between the operated and control limbs at 8 or 24 weeks (p = 0.96 and 0.07, respectively). The percent of myofibroblasts dropped from 20% at 2 weeks to 3.0% at 8 weeks (p < 0.001). The decrease from 8 to 24 weeks was not significant (p = 0.19). A large proportion of myofibroblasts are present in contracted joints at 2 weeks. By week 8, the proportion of myofibroblasts seem to return to normal. Interventions aimed at affecting the myofibroblast cell in order to prevent fibrosis should be instituted early. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:713–719, 2012
Mapping of Myxococcus xanthus Social Motility dsp Mutations to the dif Genes

Myxococcus xanthus dsp and dif mutants have similar phenotypes in that they are deficient in social motility and fruiting body development. We compared the two loci by genetic mapping, complementation with a cosmid clone, DNA sequencing, and gene disruption and found that 16 of the 18 dsp alleles map to the dif genes. Another dsp allele contains a mutation in the sglK gene. About 36.6 kb around the dsp-dif locus was sequenced and annotated, and 50% of the genes are novel.
Identification of murine extra-embryonic endodermal cells by reaction with teratocarcinoma basement membrane antiserum☆

Abstract Embryonal carcinoma cells from the PSA1 cell line will differentiate in vitro to form structures called embryoid bodies composed of an inner core of embryonal carcinoma cells surrounded by a basement membrane matrix and an outer layer of extra-embryonic endodermal cells. Immunization of rabbits with basement membranes isolated from embryoid bodies resulted in an antiserum, which binds to fixed extra-embryonic endodermal cells of either embryonic or teratocarcinoma origin but does not bind substantially to mouse embryonal carcinoma cells, fibroblasts, myoblasts or erythroleukemic cells. The F9-22 embryonal carcinoma cell line normally differentiates only to a very limited extent in vitro or in vivo. However, incubation of these cells in medium containing retinoic acid results in the appearance of cells resembling extra-embryonic endoderm. The embryoid body basement membrane antibodies were used to measure, by flow microfluorometry, the appearance of reactive cells in F9-22 cultures treated with retinoic acid. The kinetics of appearance of cells reactive with the basement membrane antibodies are similar to the kinetics of appearance of cells secreting plasminogen activator, a known marker of extraembryonic endoderm.
Some correlations between light transmission changes and some commonly used in vitro assays for the assessment of platelet concentrates

This study aims to relate the duration of light transmission changes (LTCs) through platelet concentrates (PCs) to the results of a panel analytical procedures, many of which have correlated with platelet in vivo viability. LTCs of 16 PCs stored in Pl-732 containers were studied over 10 d. On d 1, platelet counts and total PC ATP content were determined. On d 7, determination of the following parameters was carried out: pH, bicarbonate, the rate of oxygen consumption, the dispersion of the size distribution, the total platelet ATP content, the extent of shape change (ESC), the osmotic reversal reaction and extracellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level. In addition, the rate of lactate production was determined over storage. A second series consisting of 18 PCs stored in Pl-146 containers was monitored over 7 d. Mean platelet volume (MPV) was determined on d 3 and 7 and ESC was analysed on d 3. LTCs correlated significantly with pH, bicarbonate, the rate of oxygen consumption, increased platelet size distribution and decreased ESC. In addition, significant correlations were found when comparing LTCs with MPV(s). This study demonstrates that LTCs are closely related to parameters reflecting platelet metabolism.
ANALYSIS OF PAPILLARY RENAL ADENOCARCINOMA

A retrospective review was conducted comparing the angiographic findings, tumor volumes, staging, and survival of patients with papillary renal adenocarcinoma as compared with the more common clear and granular cell renal adenocarcinoma. The data suggest that the papillary histopathologic organization confers an improved prognosis, which concurs with previous findings. We speculate on why this tumor behaves differently from clear cell carcinoma.
A parallel Hough transform algorithm for nonuniform images

Abstract A Distributed Hough Transform Algorithm (DHTA) is proposed and its performance is analysed. It is shown that by distributing the algorithm rather than the image or transform space, one can avoid the asynchronism overheads. Mapping of DHTA on real architectures is discussed and results on linear array, mesh and hypercube are presented.
Light and intermittent smoking among California Black, Hispanic/Latino, and non-Hispanic White men and women.

INTRODUCTION The prevalence of light and intermittent smoking (LITS) is increasing as the prevalence of heavier smoking continues to fall. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in LITS over time among Blacks, Hispanic/Latinos (Latinos) and non-Hispanic Whites (Whites). METHODS Data from the California Tobacco Surveys from 1990, 1992, and 1996 (Time 1 [T1]) were combined and compared to combined data from 1999, 2002, 2005, and 2008 (Time 2 [T2]). T1 participants (N = 50,424) included Blacks (n = 3,029), Latinos (n = 7,910), and Whites (n = 39,485). T2 participants (N = 53,005) included Blacks (n = 5,460), Latinos (n = 14,273), and Whites (n = 33,246). RESULTS LITS increased by a factor of 12.9% to a rate of 79.6% (76.0-83.2) among Latinos, by 19.4% to a rate of 74.4% (70.9-77.9) among Blacks, and by 51.7% to a rate of 48.9% (47.5-50.3) among Whites. In unadjusted analyses at T1, females were more likely to be LITS than males across ethnic groups. At T2, this sex difference was maintained among Whites, but not Blacks and Latinos. Females were significantly more likely to be LITS than males when controlling for demographic variables. CONCLUSIONS The present study found that LITS rates increased over time for male and female Black, Latino and White adults. There is a need for increased tobacco control attention to LITS across all ethnic groups, but with additional focus on Blacks, Latinos, and women who have the highest rates of LITS.
THE RELATION AMONG DIVIDEND POLICY, FIRM SIZE, AND THE INFORMATION CONTENT OF EARNINGS ANNOUNCEMENTS

In this paper we investigate the role of dividends in explaining the size effect. The previous literature concludes that before the firm's earnings announcement, small firm stock prices impound less information than large firm stock prices. This size effect is evidenced by the greater market reaction to small firm earnings announcements than to large firm earnings announcements. We find that if the dividend announcement precedes the earnings announcement, no size effect exists. The implication is that the information conveyed by dividend announcements includes the information conveyed to investors in large firms by other information sources. However, if the firm does not pay dividends or if the firm's earnings announcement precedes its dividend announcement, the size effect exists. The implication is that dividends do not completely explain the size effect. That is, there are information sources other than dividends that are exclusively available to investors in large firms, and the information provided by these sources is reflected in the stock price of large firms before the earnings announcement.
A Note on the Social Referents of Dreams

Social as well as personal referents appear in dreams and, when recognized as such, provide insight into how unresolved social issues seep into the personal domain at an unconscious level. Dream-sharing groups (because of the time available and other factors) offer a particularly favorable opportunity to observe this interplay. The truth-telling nature of dreaming consciousness not only exposes disconnects from our past arising out of our unique personal developmental history, but also calls attention to the way such disconnects are reinforced by current bias and prejudice. The concern of the dream with connectivity leads to the broader issue of the role dreams play in maintaining the unity of the human species and its survival.
Ubisemiquinone radicals in liver: implications for a mitochondrial Q cycle in vivo.

Summary In intact liver slices and liver homogenates ∼ 85% of the 25°C, g=2.004 EPR signal is now identified as stabilized mitochondrial ubisemiquinone radicals. Redox poised liver slices and liver homogenates demonstrate ubisemiquinone stability constants of 1.6×10−3 and 2.2×10−3 respectively. Such high ubisemiquinone concentrations in liver demonstrate the physiologic feasibility of “Q cycle” mechanisms for mitochondrial electron transport.
Ultra-thin layer MALDI mass spectrometry of membrane proteins in nanodiscs

Nanodiscs have become a leading technology to solubilize membrane proteins for biophysical, enzymatic, and structural investigations. Nanodiscs are nanoscale, discoidal lipid bilayers surrounded by an amphipathic membrane scaffold protein (MSP) belt. A variety of analytical tools has been applied to membrane proteins in nanodiscs, including several recent mass spectrometry studies. Mass spectrometry of full-length proteins is an important technique for analyzing protein modifications, for structural studies, and for identification of proteins present in binding assays. However, traditional matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry methods for analyzing full-length membrane proteins solubilized in nanodiscs are limited by strong signal from the MSP belt and weak signal from the membrane protein inside the nanodisc. Herein, we show that an optimized ultra-thin layer MALDI sample preparation technique dramatically enhances the membrane protein signal and nearly completely eliminates the MSP signal. First-shot MALDI and MALDI imaging are used to characterize the spots formed by the ultra-thin layer method. Furthermore, the membrane protein enhancement and MSP suppression are shown to be independent of the type of membrane protein and are applicable to mixtures of membrane proteins in nanodiscs.
Computational Power And Accuracy Trade-Offs In Optical Numerical Processors

The comparison between the capabilities of optical versus electronic signal processors is usually the first issue that is addressed when one considers using optics in a particular signal processing application. In general, it is necessary that optics offers a clear advantage over electronics in order to be able to justify opting for an optical approach. The comparison between optics and electronics is based on a number of related criteria whose relative importance depends on the application. These include processing power (e.g. the number of elementary operations performed per unit time), algorithmic flexibility, accuracy, power consumption, weight, cost. The primary advantage of analog optical systems is the extremely high processing power that can be achieved (in excessof 104 analog multiplication per second is possible with acoustooptic technology) with relatively small power and size requirements. The major disadvantages of conventional analog optical processors are lack of algorithmic flexibility (limited to linear transformations) and low accuracy. These two limitations along with immature device technologies have restricted the utilization of optical signal processors to only a small number of areas, such as synthetic aperture radar and acoustooptic spectrum analyzers. Thus there is strong motivation to find ways to improve the accuracy and extend the range of signal processing operations that can be optically performed in order to extend the applicability of optical techniques. In this paper we examine the method of digital multiplication by analog convolution (DMAC) [l] [4] which has received attention in recent years as a technique for building accurate optical processors. We will show that DMAC is fundamentally limited because it can provide accuracy only at the expense of using post-detection electronics that are more sophisticated than the electonics required to build the entire system electronically in the first place.
Transplant tourism: a growing phenomenon

Medical tourism is increasing owing to high costs of care, lack of availability or long waits for procedures, and improvements in technology and standards of care in many countries. Transplant tourism is one example of medical tourism that has been attracting increasing attention because of concerns over poor treatment and outcomes of both donors and recipients. Most such cases involve vended kidneys obtained from vulnerable populations, and both donors and recipients receive inferior care by US standards. This commentary discusses a paper by Gill et al. that compared outcomes of 33 transplant tourists with those of patients transplanted at a US center. Fewer complications and better outcomes were seen in patients transplanted in the US center than among transplant tourists. Large transplant centers with long waiting times are increasingly likely to see patients return newly transplanted from overseas; such patients require urgent attention, with particular consideration to infectious complications.
Protein-induced alterations in murine hepatic α-aminoadipate δ-semialdehyde synthase activity are mediated posttranslationally

Abstract The molecular mechanisms responsible for alterations in lysine α -ketoglutarate reductase (LKR) activity are unknown. Therefore, the aim of these studies was to discern the mechanism(s) responsible for induction of hepatic LKR activity in rodents fed excess dietary protein. Four studies were conducted that used 84 mice. Mice were fed either a high-protein (50% casein) or adequate-protein (20% casein) diet in powder form in study 1 and a high-protein (46% casein) or adequate-protein (21% casein) diet in pellet form in the remaining studies. No significant differences in weight gain between the mice fed the different diets were detected. As expected, mice fed high-protein diets had a greater ( P P > .1) in α -aminoadipate δ -semialdehyde synthase (AASS) mRNA in experiment 1. However, after pooling the data from the remaining 3 experiments, mice receiving the high-protein diet had greater ( P P > .1) in AASS protein abundance were detected. The results are consistent with a mechanism in which posttranslational regulation is responsible for hepatic induction of LKR activity in mice fed high-protein diets.
Prone Preterm Infants Have More Quiet Sleep, Fewer Awakenings, and Less Heart Rate Variability After Feeding • 1014

Prone Preterm Infants Have More Quiet Sleep, Fewer Awakenings, and Less Heart Rate Variability After Feeding • 1014
Hydroxyl and its concentration profile in methane-air flames.

Hydroxyl concentration profiles are measured in several atmospheric-pressure premixed laminar flames. The first quantitative comparison of hydroxyl concentration profiles to recent flame models is presented. These models include the influence of hydroxyl on fuel breakdown, on carbon monoxide oxidation, and on other species concentrations. The hydroxyl concentration profiles are measured by laser-induced fluorescence, and absolute mole fraction concentrations are determined by normalizing to laser absorption measurements in similar flames. The 100-μm spatial resolution of laser-induced fluorescence provides the first optical measurements of the flame’s reaction zone at atmospheric pressure. The data are consistent with the electronic-excited state of hydroxyl having a negligible influence on the flame’s structure.
Nonlinear and active RF metamaterial applications using embedded devices

Nonlinear metamaterials have received considerable attention in recent years. The inclusion of nonlinear and active effects in metamaterials expands the possibilities for engineering media with designer properties. We detail our recent efforts to create nonlinear and active metamaterials at RF with useful properties through the inclusion of embedded nonlinear or active elements. We demonstrate some of the possible applications of such nonlinear and active metamaterials experimentally, with properties including saturable absorption, phase conjugation, and power harvesting.
Effect of age on the response to parathyroid hormone

Serum phosphate (PO4) levels and the tubular threshold for PO4 corrected for glomerular filtration (TP/GF) are age-dependent, being higher in children than in adults. We evaluated the effect of age on the response to infusion of parathyroid hormone(1-34) (PTH) in healthy children (n = 8) and adults (n = 12). In addition, six patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) and two with PTH deficiency (hypoparathyroidism [HP]) were also studied. At baseline, TP/GF in normal subjects was inversely correlated with urinary cyclic adenosine monophosphate corrected for glomerular filtration (UcAMP/GF) (P < .0359). After PTH administration in the controls, UcAMP/GF was inversely correlated with TP/GF (P < .0007) and directly correlated with maximal fractional extraction of PO4 (FEP) (P < .0002). The slope of the regression of TP/GF (P < .0076) and FEP (P < .0034) with UcAMP/GF was steeper in children than in adults. Two HP patients had high PTH-stimulated UcAMP/GF levels, but stimulated TP/GF and FEP were not changed commensurate with levels that would expected from the normative data. In six patients with PHP, PTH-stimulated TP/GF was also correlated with peak UcAMP/GF (r = .96, P < .002). PHP patients could be distinguished from normal controls based on the combination of low peak FEP or high TP/GF together with low peak UcAMP/GF. Thus, in normal subjects, the phosphaturic response to PTH is correlated with the increase in urinary cAMP and is age-dependent, with a greater decrease of TP/GF in children than in adults.
Magma Intrusion Beneath Long Valley Caldera Confirmed by Temporal Changes in Gravity

Precise relative gravity measurements conducted in Long Valley (California) in 1982 and 1998 reveal a decrease in gravity of as much as -107 +/- 6 microgals (1 microgal = 10(-8) meters per square second) centered on the uplifting resurgent dome. A positive residual gravity change of up to 64 +/- 15 microgals was found after correcting for the effects of uplift and water table fluctuations. Assuming a point source of intrusion, the density of the intruding material is 2.7 x 10(3) to 4.1 x 10(3) kilograms per cubic meter at 95 percent confidence. The gravity results require intrusion of silicate magma and exclude in situ thermal expansion or pressurization of the hydrothermal system as the cause of uplift and seismicity.
STORAGE QUALITY OF PASTEURIZED AND UV TREATED APPLE CIDER

Two studies were conducted to assess the effect of hot-fill pasteurization at 63C and UV irradiation at 14 mJ/cm2 on the quality and shelf-life of apple cider packaged under controlled conditions with minimal packaging contamination, and under pilot plant conditions resembling commercial operations, l3e processed cider was stored at 7C for up to 14 weeks in the first study and 4 weeks in the second. Microbiological, chemical and sensory tests were conducted weekly on cider samples. There were no significant differences among the fresh processed ciders with regard to taste and preference. All treatments achieved a reasonable reduction in microbial counts, although hot-fill pasteurization provided longer shelf-life. There were significant changes in pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids and turbidity of samples during storage. Hot-fill at 63C is a comparable alternative to flash pasteurization at 71C for 6 s for the production of safe quality cider at small cider mills.
Artificial Life Algorithm for Management of Multi-reservoir River Systems

The design and operation of civil engineering systems, particularly water resources systems, has been pursued from the perspective of minimizing costs and related negative impacts, maximizing benefits, or a combination thereof. Due to the complex, nonlinear nature of the majority of systems, together with an increase in digital computing capabilities, global search algorithms are becoming a common means of meeting these objectives. This paper employs an artificial life algorithm, derived from the artificial life paradigm. The algorithm is evaluated using standard optimization test functions and is subsequently applied to determine optimal dam operations in multi-reservoir river systems. The optimal dam operation scheme is that which indirectly minimizes environmental impacts caused by short-term water level fluctuations. Optimal releases are sought by coupling an artificial life algorithm with FLDWAV, a one-dimensional, steady flow simulation model. The resulting multi-reservoir management model is successfully applied to a portion of the Illinois River Waterway.
Management of an Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma in an African Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris)

Abstract A 5-year-old female African hedgehog ( Atelerix albiventris ) was presented with a mass on its left caudodorsal flank and progressive lethargy. A fine-needle aspirate of the mass was suggestive of a malignant spindle cell tumor. After the diagnostic test results were obtained, the mass was surgically removed. Histopathological examination of tissue sections from the mass revealed incomplete excision of an extraskeletal osteosarcoma. Approximately 2 months after surgery, the patient suddenly died. Gross examination at necropsy revealed multifocal nodules within the spleen, liver, and lungs. Histopathology of the tissues that contained the multifocal nodules was consistent with metastatic osteosarcoma, originating from the original extraskeletal soft tissue osteosarcoma on the flank. Incidental uterine leiomyoma was also discovered at necropsy. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported attempt at surgical treatment of the rarely documented extraskeletal osteosarcoma in a hedgehog.
Microsatellite markers for Vaccinium from EST and genomic libraries

We present 30 microsatellite loci isolated from expressed sequence tag (EST) and genomic libraries in Vaccinium corymbosum L. Allele number per locus in 11 tetraploid and one diploid V. corymbosum accessions ranged from two to 15 (mean = 8.16) in 24 single-locus simple sequence repeats (SSRs). Cross-species amplification in a panel of 12 species representing nine sections ranged from 30 to 100% (mean = 83%).
Neoadjuvant docetaxel followed by radical prostatectomy in patients with high-risk localized prostate cancer: a preliminary report.

Abstract Effective treatment options for high-risk localized prostate cancer are limited. Patients at high risk for recurrence include those with biopsy Gleason scores of 8 to 10, prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels > 20 ng/mL, and clinical stage T3 disease. Docetaxel chemotherapy is active in hormone-refractory prostate cancer, either combined with estramustine or used as a single agent. To determine if systemic therapy can improve the out-come of radical prostatectomy in men with high-risk localized prostate cancer, we are undertaking a pilot phase II clinical trial of weekly docetaxel at 36 mg/m2 for up to 6 months, followed by surgery. Patients are monitored with weekly visits, monthly digital rectal examinations, PSA measurement, and testosterone tests, and endorectal magnetic resonance imaging done at baseline, after two cycles, and again after six cycles. To date, 15 patients have been enrolled, and 70 cycles of chemotherapy have been administered. Toxicity has been mostly grade 1 in intensity, and fatigue has been the most common grade 2 toxicity reported. The primary endpoint of the trial is measurement of pathologic complete response rate, for which data are not yet available. Recruitment to the trial is ongoing.
Hypobaric Chamber for Oral Flora Study in Simulated Spacecraft Environment

A chamber to house two marmosets in a space-simulated environment was built and tested. The chamber was used in three experiments of two weeks duration each to study changes in the oral microflora of marmosets exposed to an atmosphere of 70% oxygen and 30% nitrogen at 5 psi.
The use of spreadsheets for electric utility related energy analysis applications

Abstract Spreadsheets are popular for applications such as accounting, real estate analysis, etc. They can also be used for engineering applications. Current spreadsheet programs have functional capabilities such as trig and log functions, statistical functions, data sorting capability and regression analysis. The advantages of using spreadsheet programs is that transportable programs can be quickly constructed, text and graphics output is almost automatic, and any program is easily modified. The disadvantages of spreadsheet based programs are slow computing speed and some awkward calculation methods. An example Lotus 123 template is presented which evaluated residential heating/cooling systems. The template has a house thermal model, evaluates gas, heat pump and add-on heat pump systems, considers appliance efficiency or COP, uses 5°F bin temperature data, has complete electric and gas rate structures, considers non-space conditioning energy use and calculates monthly energy bills. The template will run in about eleven seconds on an IBM PC compatible with an 8 MHz clock and an 8087 coprocessor using Lotus 123 Release 2.
Perspectives on vocational behavior, 1986: A review

Abstract This article is a review of publications relevant to vocational behavior that appeared during 1986. The review is based on the perspectives of Counseling Psychology and Industrial/Organizational Psychology which together present a relatively comprehensive view of the domain of vocational behavior. More than 700 articles and 70 books or book chapters were located and slightly less than one-half are reviewed below.
An antitermination protein engages the elongating transcription apparatus at a promoter-proximal recognition site

As a transcriptional activator, the N protein of phage lambda acts to suppress transcription termination by recognizing a promoter-proximal site, nut, which is separated from the terminators by thousands of base pairs. We demonstrate here that N interacts with the elongating RNA polymerase in transit through the boxB domain of nut. This interaction leads to the stable association of N as an integral component of the transcription apparatus. During subsequent elongation, N translocates along with polymerase through several defined terminators positioned beyond nut. Therefore, by being an operon-specific subunit of the transcription apparatus, N presumably prevents the interaction of polymerase with termination signals.
Coleman Revisited Religious Structures as a Source of Social Capital

The late James Coleman's concept of social capital has been misused in the current debate about the alleged decline of civic and ethical concern in America. Social capital, as Coleman defined it, i...
Recent experimental results on level densities for compound reaction calculations

Proton evaporation spectra from 6,7 Li induced reactions on 54,56,58 Fe nuclei have been measured and analyzed with Hauser-Feshbach compound reaction calculations with a Gilbert and Cameron input level density model. Level densities of residual 59 64 Ni nuclei have been extracted from proton spectra. Both level density and level density pa- rameter a have been compared against the respective values obtained from neutron res- onance spacing data. The discrepancy has been found in systematics behavior of level densities against the mass number of Ni isotopes.
Coarse coding and discourse comprehension in adults with right hemisphere brain damage

This study assessed whether right-hemisphere-damaged (RHD) adults’ priming of peripheral semantic features of nouns was associated with their discourse comprehension performance. A subset of RHD participants who were particularly poor comprehenders of implied information in discourse were also poor at sustaining activation for peripheral semantic features of nouns, relative to good RHD comprehenders. This result is consistent with a variant of the ‘coarse coding’ hypothesis of discourse comprehension in RHD. Continued research on RHD adults’ communicative strengths and weaknesses will have future implications for clinical assessment and management.
HIV risk reduction for the seriously mentally ill : Pilot investigation and call for research

Abstract Research indicates that people with serious mental illnesses (SMI; e.g., schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder) are at enhanced risk for infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). To decrease this risk, we piloted a six-session HIV-risk reduction intervention for two single-gender groups (nine women, eight men; M age = 39.8 years) of SMI outpatients. The intervention and assessment were based on the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model of HIV-preventive behavior (Fisher & Fisher, 1992. Psychological Bulletin., 455–474) and employed activities designed specifically for people with a SMI. Data were collected at pre- and post-intervention, and at a one-month follow-up. Results indicated that this brief intervention resulted in enhanced HIV-related knowledge, and trends toward enhanced skill at condom use negotiation and condom use self-efficacy. Overall, a modest decrease in risk behavior among participants was observed. Thus, this pilot investigation revealed that HIV-related risk of the SMI can be reduced through traditional behavioral skills and education methods. Future research employing control groups, more intensive interventions, and baseline screening for high risk is encouraged.
A pilot survey of β2-agonist inhaler availability for children with asthma during organized sporting events

Background One of the main stimuli that cause asthma exacerbations in children is physical activity, and exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) occurs in most asthmatic patients. Objective To investigate the level of preparedness for a potential EIB event in suburban children involved in recreational sports. Methods A cross-sectional study, focusing on children 12 years and younger, who participated in Little League baseball or soccer in Lower Merion Township, PA, was conducted by clinical survey. The survey was performed during a face-to-face encounter with the parent or caretaker of the child. Results Five hundred seventy-nine children 12 years and younger were surveyed. The parents or caretakers of 80 reported a history of asthma, indicating a prevalence of 14%. Only 18 (22%) of these children with asthma were reported to have a rescue medicine readily available. The 95% confidence interval was 14.22% to 33.47%, indicating that we can be 95% certain that the true population with rescue medication lies between 14% and 33%. Conclusions Despite having been diagnosed as having asthma, more than 75% of children surveyed were unprepared for an EIB event. Measures should be explored to improve the quality of care of asthmatic children involved in community sports. We also propose that it may be beneficial for first-aid kits to include a β 2 -agonist bronchodilator.
Sleep mentation and auditory awakening thresholds.

Auditory awakening thresholds (AATs) were assessed in 53 Ss during all stages of sleep and at various times of night. Sixteen of these Ss met previously devised criteria for an AAT light-sleep group (LSG) and 16 for an AAT deep-sleep group (DSG). Reports of mental activity were collected during awakenings from REM and NREM sleep and rated on a standard questionnaire by Ss and independent judges. The REM mentation of the LSG and DSG did not differ. However, LSG Ss reported dreaming after 71% of their NREM awakenings, while DSG Ss claimed to have been dreaming after only 21% of their NREM awakenings. This difference was supported by other rating scales and by the independent judges. An hypothesis was offered which suggests that dreaming is a function of the level of cerebral arousal in the absence of reality contact, regardless of the stage of sleep, and that LSG Ss, as evidenced by several criteria, were more cerebrally aroused during NREM sleep than DSG Ss.
A network model that determines the optimal path of breed-crossing decisions to maximize net returns

Abstract A model for finding the sequence of breed-crossing decisions that maximizes the expected discounted net returns over a given number of generations is presented. The method is based on network analysis. The assumptions are that there is an initial breed of females, and that all females, in a generation will be mated to one of a given number of alternative breeds. The optimal path of breed-crossing decisions depends on the revenues expected from additive direct effects, maternal effects. breed-specific individual and maternal heterosis effects, and the cost associated with choosing a particular breed of sires. A simple numerical example is presented.
Multiparameter solubility model of fullerene C60

Abstract The separation of solute–solvent interaction into different components offers insight into the mechanism of solution behavior. In this study the solution model of Thomas and Eckert with consideration of dispersion, polar, acidity, and basicity interactions was used to correlate the solubility data of fullerene C60 at 25 °C in 55 solvents. Parameters of fullerene were estimated using the relative solubility data, choosing benzene as the reference. From the parameters it was concluded that C60 has dispersion and polar components comparable to aromatics, a small acidity, and zero basicity component. The induction parameter was near unity. The model gave a good description of experimental results including alkanes and alcohols. Several halogenated alkanes showed a systematic deviation from the trend, with lower predicted interaction parameter. A deeper understanding of the interaction between fullerene and various solvents will allow rational choice of solvents for processing.