cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Applying concepts of general resilience to large river ecosystems: A case study from the Upper Mississippi and Illinois rivers

Abstract Large floodplain-river ecosystems are often highly modified to provide services that society desires, yet these modifications can limit an ecosystem’s ability to adapt to changing conditions. The adaptive capacity of an ecosystem, its general resilience, is a conceptual framework for considering how a system will respond to such changes. We sought to apply aspects of three general resilience principles (diversity and redundancy, connectivity, and controlling variables) to our understanding of floodplain-river ecosystem structure and function. We demonstrate the applicability of this approach in a case study of the Upper Mississippi River System (UMRS). In doing so, we developed ten indicators that highlight important structural and functional aspects of this floodplain-river ecosystem, and likely underlie the capacity of large rivers to cope with environmental change and disturbance. We developed diversity and redundancy indicators for aquatic habitats, patterns of floodplain inundation, and fish communities. Connectivity indicators included metrics of longitudinal and lateral connections. Controlling variable indicators included deviations from historic water surface elevation fluctuations, water clarity, nutrient concentrations, and aquatic invasive species. This set of indicators provides a simple description of the adaptive capacity of four distinct reaches of the UMRS: Upper Impounded, Lower Impounded, Unimpounded Reaches of the Upper Mississippi River and the entire Illinois River. High aquatic habitat diversity and redundancy, fish functional diversity and redundancy, and water clarity, and the scarcity of invasive fish species are all factors that likely contribute to the high general resilience of the Upper Impounded Reach. However, the limited longitudinal connectivity and establishment of a minimum water level for navigation are factors that may inhibit the general resilience of this reach. In the Lower Impounded Reach, there is high within-reach variability for individual indicators such as aquatic habitat diversity, fish functional diversity and redundancy, and longitudinal and lateral connectivity. In the Unimpounded Reach, a high degree of longitudinal connectivity likely enhances its general resilience, but low aquatic habitat diversity, low lateral connectivity, and relatively high number of invasive fish species inhibit general resilience. For the Illinois River Reach, the relatively high fish functional diversity and redundancy likely contributes to its general resilience, whereas high number of invasive fish species, low water clarity, low lateral connectivity, and high range of water levels may inhibit general resilience. Indicators derived from application of concepts of general resilience provide insight into the current coping capacity of the UMRS and identify opportunities for enhancing resilience.
BARRIERS TO ENTRY ANALYSIS OF BROADBAND MULTIPLE PLATFORMS: COMPARING THE U.S. AND SOUTH KOREA

This paper compares barriers to entry in the broadband markets between the U.S. and South Korea. First, it explores economic conceptions of barriers to entry from the economics literature. Second, it speculates on how the conception of barriers to entry has been dealt with in the telecommunications industry. It clarifies the various industrial factors that could prevent, or make it difficult, to successfully enter the residential telecommunications market. Third, it introduces an analytical framework that can be adopted for evaluating the barriers to entry. Fourth, employing that framework, it examines the broadband markets in the U.S. and in South Korea, focusing on barriers to entry in multiple broadband access platforms. Both the U.S. and South Korea have shown greater barriers to entry in wireline broadband markets such as cable modem and DSL compared to wireless broadband when it comes to a facilities-based entry. South Korea has offered more opportunity to non-dominant ISPs as new entrants and thus, has been able to facilitate more vibrant competition nationwide. This paper concludes with an analysis of the barriers to entry for alternative broadband access platforms in residential high speed Internet services, more specifically, wireless access technologies, including other economic and policy factors in the US and South Korea. The sluggish progress of intermodal and intramodal market competition explains a part of the sluggish demand in the residential high speed Internet access market in the U.S., while the South Korean market was able to grow rapidly due to fierce competition in the market, mostly facilitated by the Korean government’s open access rule and policy choices more favorable to new entrants rather than to the incumbents. Furthermore, near monopoly control of the residential communications infrastructure by cable operators and telephone companies manifests itself as relatively high pricing and lower quality in the U.S. The more favorable terms from which the dominant providers have benefited, and government’s deregulation, may limit business opportunities for other Internet service providers.
The Symbolism, Use, and Archaeological Context of Masks in Formative Period Coastal Oaxaca, Mexico

The production and use of masks at multiple scales and in diverse contexts is a millennia-long tradition in Mesoamerica. In this paper, we explore some implications of Mesoamerican masking practices in light of materiality studies and the archaeology of the senses. We also discuss a collection of 22 masks, miniature masks and representations of masks from the lower Rio Verde valley of coastal Oaxaca, Mexico. The iconography of these artefacts as well as their recovery from well-documented archaeological contexts inform our interpretations of masking practices during an approximately 2000-year span of the Formative period (2000 bc–ad 250). Specifically, we argue that these masking-related artefacts index sociocultural changes in the region, from the first villages and the advent of ceramic technology during the Early Formative period (2000–1000 bc) to a time of increasing consolidation of iconographic influence in the hands of the elite in the final centuries before the Classic period. As indicated by their continued use today, masks have long been intimates of communal activities in Oaxaca.
Comparison of beginning R students' perceptions of peer-made plots created in two plotting systems: a randomized experiment.

We performed an empirical study of the perceived quality of scientific graphics produced by beginning R users in two plotting systems: the base graphics package (“base R”) and the ggplot2 add-on pa...
THE BONDS OF MATRIMONY AND THE BONDS OF CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY

This Article considers the influence of marriage on the form of government and the potential impact of legalizing alternative forms of intimate affiliation upon our constitutional system. Those inquiries raise foundational, a priori questions about marriage, our constitutional government, and the relationships between them. The answers to such basic questions define a society, but once it is established, the questions recede and the reasons for the answers to the foundational questions tend to be taken for granted or forgotten. Every generation in any society reconsiders some foundational assumptions or principles, and that is good because as time passes and circumstances change the reasons that gave rise to some foundational rules become anachronistic, some assumptions lose validity because of changes in the world, and some old, established principles become obsolete. It is also good because it may lead to the rediscovery of critical knowledge and reaffirmation of critical beliefs about the core institutions, principles, and values of a society, and reestablishment of the very identity of the society. Professor Linda C. McClain, the Hofstra University School of Law, and the Hofstra Law Review deserve thanks for sponsoring this Symposium on Marriage, Democracy, and Families to explore the assumptions regarding the relationship between forms of intimate
Beyond Survival: Reshaping Entrepreneurial Vision In Successful Growing Ventures

This paper addresses the role of vision in the management of organization growth. Effective growth management requires that founders/executives envision the firm as a larger entity and anticipate critical changes which will need to occur. A five part strategy for expanding entrepreneurial vision in the growing firm is proposed. Elements of that strategy are as follows: (a) get to know the territory, (b) recognize that change is inevitable, (c) revise your vision in· anticipation of increased size, (d) update your business plan, and (e) share the vision at every appropriate opportunity.
Nitrogen Demand Associated with Increased Biomass Yield of Switchgrass and Big Bluestem: Implications for Future Breeding Strategies

Development of perennial biomass cropping systems is focused on maximizing biomass yield with minimum inputs, particularly nitrogen (N) fertilizer. Historical breeding efforts have focused on increasing biomass yield but have ignored N-use efficiency. The purpose of this study was to quantify the increased N demand associated with realized gains in biomass yield from big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii Vitman) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) breeding programs. Nitrogen demand was highly variable across locations and years, ranging from − 1.7 to + 6.8 kg N Mg−1 DM, with an average of 2.2 kg N Mg−1 DM. Increases in N demand were closely associated with realized gains in biomass yield and were observed for all types of switchgrass (upland, lowland, and hybrid) as well as for big bluestem. Attenuation of these responses will require alternative breeding schemes that are focused on evaluation of switchgrass genotypes and progeny under low-N conditions and include a high-throughput tissue N analysis as a component of future selection criteria, designed to develop new cultivars with high biomass yield and low tissue N.
Sheep Pulmonary Adenomatosis

This chapter provides an overview of the classification, description, hosts, key developments, and diagnostic techniques for sheep pulmonary adenomatosis. At present, the family to which this disease belongs is undetected. It is probably caused by a retrovirus, but a herpesvirus has also been isolated from the lung tumor. The disease is characterized by progressive neoplastic proliferation of alveolar epithelial cells. It is called jaagsiekte in South Africa, where it was first described. Australia and New Zealand are the only areas that are free from the virus. Only clinical signs and histopathology are available because no serological test has been developed for the virus. Diagnostic reagents are not available for it.
The perspective of children of hoarding parents (COHP)

The perspective herein is based upon the lived experience of adult Children of Hoarding Parents (COHP). The weight of parental hoarding on COHP is not derived solely from the physical adversity of living within a hoarded home but also comes with the social and psychological challenges they carry into adulthood. The view of hoarding as a family disorder with lasting impact evokes research questions including the exploration of the relationship between childhood adversity and parental hoarding, and the application of attachment theory to hoarding behaviours and family relationships. These types of research studies may lead to policy adoption and programme development for early identification of and intervention within families where parental hoarding represents a threat to child welfare.
US students' perceptions on environmental sustainability in dental school.

OBJECTIVES At present, there are no published reports assessing pre-doctoral curricular experience or participatory involvement with Environmental Sustainability in Dentistry (ESD) in the United States. This study aims to assess whether students enrolled in US dental schools receive any training with ESD and gauge dental students' level of interest and attitudes regarding ESD within their dental education. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study utilizing a 16-questions validated survey was conducted on Qualtrics. Data analysis included descriptive statistics. RESULTS A total of 378 dental students from 17 US dental schools participated (response rate 5%). Students reported that ESD was "quite" or "extremely" important (83%). However, 75% of students reported being "not at all" or "slightly" knowledgeable. Only 5% reported ESD content in their dental education. Students suggested that ESD could be integrated into existing coursework relating to infection control, practice management, and dental public health. CONCLUSION By understanding students' level of interest, attitudes toward importance, and current level of curricular content on ESD, dental educators can develop best practices for educating future practitioners on environmental sustainability.
Molecular Switching via Multiplicity-Exclusive E/Z Photoisomerization Pathways

Mutual exclusivity in the nature of forward and reserve isomerization pathways holds promise for predictably controlling responses of photoswitchable materials according to molecular structure or external stimuli. Herein we have characterized the E/Z photoisomerization mechanisms of the visible-light-triggered switch 1,2-dithienyl-1,2-dicyanoethene (4TCE) in chlorobenzene with ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy. We observe that switching mechanisms occur exclusively by relaxation through electronic manifolds of different spin multiplicity: trans-to-cis isomerization only occurs via electronic relaxation within the singlet manifold on a time scale of 40 ps; in contrast, cis-to-trans isomerization is not observed above 440 nm, but occurs via two rapid ISC processes into and out of the triplet manifold on time scales of ∼2 ps and 0.4 ns, respectively, when excited at higher energies (e.g., 420 nm). Observation of ultrafast ISC in cis-4TCE is consistent with photoinduced dynamics of related thiophene-based oligomers. Interpretation of the photophysical pathways underlying these isomerization reactions is supported by the observation that cis-to-trans isomerization occurs efficiently via triplet-sensitized energy transfer, whereas trans-to-cis isomerization does not. Quantum-chemical calculations reveal that the T1 potential energy surface is barrierless along the coordinate of the central ethylene dihedral angle (θ) from the cis Franck-Condon region (θ = 175°) to geometries that are within the region of the trans ground-state well; furthermore, the T1 and S1 surfaces cross with a substantial spin-orbital coupling. In total, we demonstrate that E/Z photoswitching of 4TCE operates by multiplicity-exclusive pathways, enabling additional means for tailoring switch performance by manipulating spin-orbit couplings through variations in molecular structure or physical environment.
Site‐Directed Mutagenesis Studies on the Lima Bean Lectin

The wild-type seed lima bean lectin (LBL), and recombinant LBL expressed in Escherichia coli show specificity for the human blood group A immunodominant trisaccharide GalNAcal-3[Fucα1-2]Galβ1-R. We have generated four site-specific mutants of LBL, two of which show altered specificity for extended carbohydrate structures. Four mutants, [C127Y]LBL, [H128P]LBL, [H128R]LBL and [W132F]LBL were expressed in E. coli. Two mutants show altered specificity for the substituent at the C2 hydroxy group of the penultimate Gal in the wild-type ligand which is α-l-fucose in the A trisaccharide. The mutant [C127Y]LBL showed specificity for the A disaccharide (GalNAcα1-3Gal) and GalNAcα1-4Gal, with free hydroxyl groups at the C2 position of Gal. The mutant [H128P]LBL bound the Forssman disaccharide structure GalNAcα1-3GalNAc, in which the C2 hydroxyl group is substituted with an acetamido group. The third and fourth mutants, [H128R]LBL and [W132F]LBL, exhibited wild-type specificities, both recognizing the A trisaccharide. All of these mutant lectins bound the terminal GalNAc residues exposed on asialoovine submaxillary mucin, thus indicating that the monosaccharide-binding site had not been altered. We also determined that all but one mutant ([C127Y]LBL) retained the high-affinity binding site for N6 derivatives of adenine, indicative of tetramer formation; each mutant also expressed the low-affinity binding site for 8-anilinonaphthalene 1-sulfonate (1/monomer). Thus, by targeting two residues in LBL, we have identified a region of the protein that is part of the extended carbohydrate-binding site and which is specifically involved in the binding/recognition of substituents at the C2 position of the penultimate Gal of the A disaccharide. We have determined, by site-directed mutagenesis, that an essential Cys residue is involved in the specificity of LBL for the A trisaccharide.
The purification and properties of phosphoglycerate mutase from chicken breast muscle.

Abstract A very rapid procedure for the preparation of phosphoglycerate mutase from chicken breast muscle is presented. Commercially available frozen chicken breasts may be used. The enzyme is obtained in high yields, and the specific activity of the crystalline homogenous preparations is equal to that of the crystalline enzymes from yeast and rabbit muscle. The chicken breast enzyme requires 2,3-diphosphoglycerate for activity, and it is very similar in kinetic and molecular properties to the rabbit muscle phosphoglycerate mutase. Similarly, it also possesses 4 sulfhydryl groups per mole of enzyme. The molecular weight of the enzyme is 65,690. With the use of a gel filtration technique, it has been demonstrated that 2 moles of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate may be bound per mole of the enzyme. It appears that the binding of this phosphoglycerate may entail phosphoenzyme formation. Again, as with other pure phosphoglycerate mutases, the chicken breast muscle mutase shows some 2,3-phosphoglycerate phosphatase activity (about 1/40,000 the mutase activity).
Suitable operation conditions for different 100V trench-based power MOSFETs in 48V-input synchronous buck converters

In this work a comparative analysis between different trench-based power MOSFETs is performed to optimize the efficiency and the robustness of 48V-input synchronous buck converters. Hence, gate-trench (GT), gate-drift-trench (GDT) and split-gate (SG) trench structures are investigated by measurements and mixed-mode simulations to determine their suitability at different load currents and frequencies. Moreover, in order to reduce the ringing effects, a co-integrated resistor is proposed to optimize the inherent RC snubber branch in a SG based solution.
Hydrogenation of Unsaturated Fatty Acids by Treponema (Borrelia) Strain B25, a Rumen Spirochete

The time course of hydrogenation of linoleic acid to trans-11-octadecenoic acid was observed in a growing culture of Treponema (Borrelia) strain B25. A conjugated fatty acid, cis-9, trans-11-octadecadienoic acid, was identified as an intermediate in the process. The isomerase responsible for the conversion of linoleic acid to the conjugated fatty acid was found to be associated with a particulate fraction characterized by a high protein and lipid content in a 2:1 ratio. Optimum pH for isomerase activity was found to be 7.0 in 0.05 m potassium phosphate buffer. No cofactor requirements could be demonstrated for the isomerase. The sulfhydryl inhibiting agents, iodoacetamide, N-ethylmaleimide, and p-chloromercuribenzoate, inhibited isomerase activity. Isomerase activity was also inhibited by the metal chelators, o-phenanthroline, α, α′-bipyridyl, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, and 8-hydroxyquinoline. Linoleic (Δ9, 12), linolenic (Δ9, 12, 15), and gamma-linolenic (Δ6, 9, 12) acids served as effective substrates for the isomerase; however, the derivatives of linoleic and linolenic acid did not.
§ 5:34 Waiver of Privilege — Inadvertent or Involuntary Disclosure

In their first twenty years (1975-1995), the federal rules of evidence changed little. However, changes have accelerated since 1993, with creation of the Evidence Rules Advisory Committee which meets regularly and proposes changes to the rules almost every year. One change, which grew out of the work of a special committee, was the addition of an entirely new provision, Rule 502, which governs waiver of attorney-client privilege. This rule became law in 2008 through congressional enactment (privilege rules must be passed by Congress in order to take effect). Sections 5:34 discusses this new provision. Under "Privileges: Rule 501,"section 5:34 discusses waiver by inadvertent or involuntary disclosure.
Localization of CD8 T cell epitope within cardiac myosin heavy chain-α334-352 that induces autoimmune myocarditis in A/J mice

Abstract Background Cardiac myosin heavy chain-α (Myhc), an intracellular protein expressed in the cardiomyocytes, has been identified as a major autoantigen in cardiac autoimmunity. In our studies with Myhc 334–352 -induced experimental autoimmune myocarditis in A/J mice (H-2 a ), we discovered that Myhc 334–352 , supposedly a CD4 T cell epitope, also induced antigen-specific CD8 T cells that transfer disease to naive animals. Methods and results In our efforts to identify the CD8 T cell determinants, we localized Myhc 338–348 within the full length-Myhc 334–352 , leading to four key findings. (1) By acting as a dual epitope, Myhc 338–348 induces both CD4 and CD8 T cell responses. (2) In a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-stabilization assay, Myhc 338–348 was found to bind H-2D d —but not H-2K k or H-2L d —alleles. (3) The CD8 T cell response induced by Myhc 338–348 was antigen-specific, as evaluated by MHC class I/H-2D d dextramer staining. The antigen-sensitized T cells predominantly produced interferon-γ, the critical cytokine of effector cytotoxic T lymphocytes. (4) Myhc 338–348 was found to induce myocarditis in immunized animals as determined by histology and magnetic resonance microscopy imaging. Conclusions Our data provide new insights as to how different immune cells can recognize the same antigen and inflict damage through different mechanisms.
Catastrophic Vasoconstriction after Protamine Reversal of Heparin Anticoagulation in the Goat

: Catastrophic pulmonary vasoconstriction after protamine reversal of heparin anticoagulation was observed frequently in goats that underwent centrifugal biventricular bypass pump implant. Care should be taken when protamine is used to reverse heparin anticoagulation in goats.
Building brand knowledge structures: Elaboration and interference effects on the processing of sequentially advertised brand benefit claims

Two experiments are reported that examine the effects of an ad campaign designed to link two different benefit claims to a brand. The findings indicated that recall for a subsequently advertised claim depended on the strength of existing brand–benefit links in memory. If prior advertising strongly established a benefit claim in memory, then proactive interference effects inhibited the recall of subsequently advertised benefit claims unrelated in meaning. Additional analyses suggested that these interference effects appeared to be a result of difficulties with encoding the newly advertised claims. If the original benefit claim was not as strongly established in memory, however, then unaided recall of the subsequently advertised benefit claims was actually higher than if there had been no prior advertising at all. In fact, less accessible and memorable claims, whether they preceded or followed more accessible and memorable claims, enhanced recall of the stronger claims. Additional analyses suggest that thes...
Choosing fields of graduate study among Chinese and Taiwanese students

Abstract This study examines field of study patterns and their determinants among Chinese and Taiwanese students who come to the U.S. for the purpose of advancing their education. I argue that field of study choice is the result of both economic incentives as well as cultural and social values. Results suggest that funding from U.S. university sources channel Chinese and Taiwanese students into science- and technology-related fields. This study also suggests that choosing field is a gender-specific behavior that is affected by cultural and social values, as well as structural factors, such as educational policy. Despite the gender gap in choosing field of study, women from China are more likely to choose science- and technology-related fields than those from Taiwan. This may be the result of China’s central government’s claimed campaign for gender equality. Such an alleged campaign may have created perceived equality and confidence within women that encourage some women to enter male-dominated fields.
Tobacco mosaic virus and the study of early events in virus infections.

In order to establish infections, viruses must be delivered to the cells of potential hosts and must then engage in activities that enable their genomes to be expressed and replicated. With most viruses, the events that precede the onset of production of progeny virus particles are referred to as the early events and, in the case of positive–strand RNA viruses, they include the initial interaction with, and the entry of, host cells and the release (uncoating) of the genome from the virus particles. Though the early events remain one of the more poorly understood areas of plant virology, the virus with which most of the relevant research has been performed is tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). In spite of this effort, there remains much uncertainty about the form or constituent of the virus that actually enters the initially invaded cell in a plant and about the mechanism(s) that trigger the subsequent uncoating (virion disassembly) reactions. A variety of approaches have been used in attempts to determine the fate of TMV particles that are involved in the establishment of an infection and these are briefly described in this review. In some recent work, it has been proposed that the uncoating process involves the bidirectional release of coat protein subunits from the viral RNA and that these activities may be mediated by cotranslational and coreplicational disassembly mechanisms.
Composite WO3-TiO2 films: Pulsed electrodeposition from a mixed bath versus sequential deposition from twin baths

Abstract Composite WO 3 –TiO 2 semiconductor films were cathodically electrodeposited using sequential deposition of WO 3 and TiO 2 from aqueous baths containing peroxytungstate and titanyl precursor species, respectively. The composite films were prepared by switching the baths for five cycles of deposition at −0.45 V (for WO 3 ) and −0.95 V (for TiO 2 ). These new films were compared and contrasted with composite WO 3 –TiO 2 films prepared by pulsed electrodeposition from a mixed bath. Neat WO 3 films were also included for this comparison; the best photoelectrochemical response was shown by the composite films obtained from the new procedure.
The periodontium and periodontal pathology in the howler monkey.

Abstract One hundred and six formalin fixed and sixty-five defleshed skulls of wild howler monkeys were surveyed grossly for evidence of periodontal disease. Sixteen wet specimens displayed clinically detectable pocket formation. Roentgenograms confirmed the presence of osseous lesions. Similar bone lesions were noted in the dried skulls. Two normal animals were studied microscopically. All areas of gross pathology, periodontal and periapical, were prepared and studied similarly. The periodontal lesions were quite similar to those seen in man, grossly, roentgenographically, and microscopically. No generalized periodontal disease, such as is commonly found in man, was noted. Two dehiscences and one hundred and fifty fenestrations were noted in the dried skulls. The existence of these osseous defects did not appear to be related to periodontal problems. The howler monkey would appear to have distinct advantages for future studies of periodontal disease.
Analysis of Place Value Instruction and Development in Pre-Kindergarten Mathematics

Development of two-digit place value under- standing in the elementary grades has been the subject of some study; however, research at the pre-kindergarten (Pre-K) level is limited. This two-part paper begins by providing an overview of two-digit place value instruction in Pre-K and describes the component parts of a research- based math curriculum, MyTeachingPartner Math (MTP Math). Part two presents the results of a video analysis of classroom interactions across four MTP Math place value activities facilitated by two high quality teachers. Particular attention is given to the primary conceptual hurdles faced by students, as well as the scaffolding strategies employed by teachers. Results indicate that students possess a con- ceptual understanding of the ones place prior to the tens place and initially struggle the concept of unitizing groups of ten. Considerations are discussed for improving the quality of teacher-child interactions in pre-kindergarten that can best support children's thinking and learning.
Reaction of protease-treated IgG with glutathione.

Molecular sieving in Sepharose 6B of rabbit IgG first treated with human leukocyte neutral protease and then incubated with 1 mM reduced glutathione or 1 mM reduced glutathione/0.1 mM oxidized glutathione showed different elution patterns when compared to each other or when compared to untreated protease-reacted IgG. Different products were also seen when analysis was carried out by electrophoresis or when the differently treated IgG samples were used to immunize rabbits and the resulting antisera reacted with human IgG coated latex particles. It was suggested that the different products are formed by sulfhydryl-disulfide exchange reactions in the IgG molecule.
The effect of uterine lavage performed four hours post insemination on pregnancy rate in mares

Abstract One stallion and 24 mares were used in an experiment to evaluate the effect of postbreeding uterine lavage on pregnancy rate in mares. Mares were inseminated with 250 × 10 6 progressively motile sperm every other day during estrus and were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: 1) no uterine lavage (control); 2) uterine lavage at 4 h post-breeding with 1 L 0.9% saline; and 3) uterine lavage at 4 h post breeding with 1 L 0.05% povidone-iodine solution (PIS) in 0.9% saline. Pregnancy status was determined at Days 15 and 21 post ovulation using transrectal ultra-sonography. Pregnancy rates for Group 1 (6/8; 75.0%); Group 2 (8/8; 100.0%); and Group 3 (7/8; 87.5%) were similar (P=0.87). Uterine lavage at 4 h post breeding did not adversely affect fertility. Results of a previous study indicated that uterine lavage with 0.05% PIS at 0.5 or 2 h post breeding reduced pregnancy rates in mares. An adverse effect of PIS on oviductal spermatozoa was suspected. The present study suggests that the timing of postbreeding uterine lavage may be more important than the lavage media, with regard to detrimental effects on fertility.
Temporal Lobe Epilepsy in Children

The temporal lobe is a common focus for epilepsy. Temporal lobe epilepsy in infants and children differs from the relatively homogeneous syndrome seen in adults in several important clinical and pathological ways. Seizure semiology varies by age, and the ictal EEG pattern may be less clear cut than what is seen in adults. Additionally, the occurrence of intractable seizures in the developing brain may impact neurocognitive function remote from the temporal area. While many children will respond favorably to medical therapy, those with focal imaging abnormalities including cortical dysplasia, hippocampal sclerosis, or low-grade tumors are likely to be intractable. Expedient workup and surgical intervention in these medically intractable cases are needed to maximize long-term developmental outcome.
Discovery and evaluation of candidate sex-determining genes and xenobiotics in the gonads of lake sturgeon ( Acipenser fulvescens )

Modern pyrosequencing has the potential to uncover many interesting aspects of genome evolution, even in lineages where genomic resources are scarce. In particular, 454 pyrosequencing of nonmodel species has been used to characterize expressed sequence tags, xenobiotics, gene ontologies, and relative levels of gene expression. Herein, we use pyrosequencing to study the evolution of genes expressed in the gonads of a polyploid fish, the lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens). Using 454 pyrosequencing of transcribed genes, we produced more than 125 MB of sequence data from 473,577 high-quality sequencing reads. Sequences that passed stringent quality control thresholds were assembled into 12,791 male contigs and 32,629 female contigs. Average depth of coverage was 4.2 × for the male assembly and 5.5× for the female assembly. Analytical rarefaction indicates that our assemblies include most of the genes expressed in lake sturgeon gonads. Over 86,700 sequencing reads were assigned gene ontologies, many to general housekeeping genes like protein, RNA, and ion binding genes. We searched specifically for sex determining genes and documented significant sex differences in the expression of two genes involved in animal sex determination, DMRT1 and TRA-1. DMRT1 is the master sex determining gene in birds and in medaka (Oryzias latipes) whereas TRA-1 helps direct sexual differentiation in nematodes. We also searched the lake sturgeon assembly for evidence of xenobiotic organisms that may exist as endosymbionts. Our results suggest that exogenous parasites (trematodes) and pathogens (protozoans) apparently have infected lake sturgeon gonads, and the trematodes have horizontally transferred some genes to the lake sturgeon genome.
The GoodNEWS (Genes, Nutrition, Exercise, Wellness, and Spiritual Growth) Trial: A community-based participatory research (CBPR) trial with African-American church congregations for reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors - recruitment, measurement, and randomization

Introduction Although cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death among Americans, significant disparities persist in CVD prevalence, morbidity, and mortality based on race and ethnicity. However, few studies have examined risk factor reduction among the poor and ethnic minorities. Methods Community-based participatory research (CBPR) study using a cluster randomized design — African-American church congregations are the units of randomization and individuals within the congregations are the units of analysis. Outcome variables include dietary change (Diet History Questionnaire), level of physical activity (7-Day Physical Activity Recall), lipoprotein levels, blood pressure, fasting glucose, and hemoglobin A1c. Results Eighteen (18) church congregations were randomized to either a health maintenance intervention or a control condition. Complete data were obtained on 392 African-American individuals, 18 to 70 years of age, predominantly employed women with more than a high school diploma. Treatment and intervention groups were similar at baseline on saturated fat intake, metabolic equivalent of tasks (METS) per day, and other risk factors for CVD. Conclusions The GoodNEWS trial successfully recruited and evaluated CVD-related risk among African-American participants using a CBPR approach. Several logistical challenges resulted in extending the recruitment, preliminary training, and measurement periods. The challenges were overcome with the assistance of a local community consultant and a professional event planner. Our experience supports the need for incorporating non-traditional community-based staff into the design and operational plan of CBPR trials.
Comparative immuno-removal: A novel method for estimating the concentration of an unknown immunoreactive compound

We describe a method for estimating the molar concentration of an unknown immunoreactive compound. The amount of antibody required to bind half of a standard is compared to the amount required to bind half of an equal number of immunoreactive equivalents of the unknown. We demonstrate the utility of the method using a morphine antibody affinity resin and compounds structurally related to morphine.
Patients' Ways of Speaking about Antiretroviral Medications and Possible Implications for Adherence.

The medical literature reports that antiretrovirals (ARVs) are considered attitudinal objects (Dunbar-Jacob, 1995). Drawing on the pragmatics of emotion (Caffi & Janney, 1994), this study analyzes how patients' stances about their ARTs shape their emotional relationships with their treatments. The data, collected in a public hospital in Uruguay, are analyzed by means of qualitative (Halliday & Matthiessen, 2004) and quantitative methods. For several reasons, patients do not always report directly when their adherence to ARTs is suboptimal, but pharmaceutical adherence is essential for their survival. This study suggests that patients' emotional adherence might be anticipated by their linguistic choices used to refer to ARVs. It is observed that emotional alienation from the ARTs is expressed either by overt (e.g., devil terms) or covert linguistic choices related to a non-ego, non-hic, or non-nunc perspective. The implications for medical providers are in developing awareness of their patients' linguistic...
Development of 5'-nucleotidase staining in the olfactory bulbs of normal and naris-occluded rats.

Abstract The distribution of the adenosine-producing ecto-enzyme 5′-nucleotidase was investigated histochemically in the developing rat olfactory bulb. Rat pups underwent either unilateral surgical occlusion of the right external naris or sham surgery on postnatal day 1. At 10, 20, or 30 days postpartum, horizontal sections of the olfactory bulb were reacted histochemically to reveal the locus and intensity of 5′-nucleotidase activity. Relative staining levels were determined by optical densitometry in standardized bulb regions. A marked, age-related increase in staining density was observed. Reaction product was found primarily in neuropil areas. The P10 and P20 control animals did not exhibit right/left differences in bulb staining; however, some laterality was observed in P30 animals. Inter-glomerular and regional variations were observed throughout the developmental period, including (1) differences between neighboring glomeruli; (2) a gradient in the dorsal-ventral axis of the bulb; and (3) a higher staining density in the medial-caudal portion of the bulb. In subjects with occluded nares, asymmetries in right/left bulb 5′-nucleotidase staining patterns were detected throughout development. Bulbs ipsilateral to the blocked nares exhibited increased staining density, suggesting that the procedure enhanced enzymatic activity. Understanding these variations in 5′-nucleotidase staining may be important for a complete understanding of the mechanisms of olfactory bulb maturation and may give insight into the possible role of this enzyme in synaptic malleability during nervous system development and regeneration.
MDS codes over finite principal ideal rings

The purpose of this paper is to study codes over finite principal ideal rings. To do this, we begin with codes over finite chain rings as a natural generalization of codes over Galois rings GR(p e , l) (including $${\mathbb{Z}_{p^e}}$$ ). We give sufficient conditions on the existence of MDS codes over finite chain rings and on the existence of self-dual codes over finite chain rings. We also construct MDS self-dual codes over Galois rings GF(2 e , l) of length n = 2 l for any a ? 1 and l ? 2. Torsion codes over residue fields of finite chain rings are introduced, and some of their properties are derived. Finally, we describe MDS codes and self-dual codes over finite principal ideal rings by examining codes over their component chain rings, via a generalized Chinese remainder theorem.
Electron localization in the ground state of the ruthenium blue dimer.

The electronic structure of the ruthenium blue dimer was studied with hybrid density functional theory (DFT) and complete action space self-consistent field (CASSCF) calculations. Hybrid DFT was found to overestimate the stability of the lowest triplet which leads to predicting this state as the ground state. However, CASSCF gives a singlet ground state in agreement with experiment. The density of the CASSCF ground state is in good agreement with the broken symmetry state obtained from DFT. These two results lead to the interpretation that the ground state of the ruthenium blue dimer is a partially localized antiferromagnetically coupled singlet state that lies three-quarters of the way toward the weak coupling limit. The electrons were found to localize in the dπ manifold.
Family Expenditures on Child Care

This study examines the child care “expenditure share,” defined as child care expenses divided by after-tax income. We estimate that the average child under six years of age lives in a family that spends 4.9 percent of after-tax income on child care. However, this conceals wide variation: 63 percent of such children reside in families with no child care expenses and 10 percent are in families where the expenditure share exceeds 16 percent. The proportion of income devoted to child care is typically greater in single-parent than married-couple families but is not systematically related to a constructed measure of socioeconomic status. One reason for this is that disadvantaged families use lower cost modes and pay less per hour for given types of care. The expenditure share would be much less equal without low cost (presumably subsidized) formal care focused on needy families, as well as government tax and transfer policies that redistribute income towards them.
On the equity-efficiency trade off in aggregating infinite utility streams

Abstract We compare two different approaches to aggregating infinite utility streams, following some principles of equity and efficiency. We find that the consequentialist equity axiom, Hammond Equity for the Future, is more demanding than its procedural equity counterpart, Anonymity.
Nucleotide sequence and expression of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa algF gene controlling acetylation of alginate

Colonization of the cystic fibrosis lung by Pseudomonas aeruginosa is greatly facilitated by the production of an exopolysaccharide called alginate. In this study we determined the nucleotide sequence of an alginate modification gene, algF, which controls the addition of acetyl groups to alginate. Expression of algF using a T7 promoter-expression system showed that algF codes for a 24.5 kDa polypeptide (predicted size 22,832 Da) that is processed to 19.5 kDa. The N-terminus of the processed polypeptide matched the predicted amino acid sequence of AlgF starting at Asp-29. An algF mutant failed to produce alginate owing to a polar effect on the downstream algA gene. Although the algA gene, provided in trans, restored synthesis of alginate, the alginate was non-acetylated. We show that a plasmid containing both the algF and algA gene complements the alginate acetylation defect of the algF mutant strain.
Protostellar formation in rotating interstellar clouds. V - Nonisothermal collapse and fragmentation

Numerical calculations are presented for rigorous models spanning a four-dimensional parameter space of initial conditions of the three-dimensional collapse of rotating protostellar clouds, encompassing radiative transfer in the Eddington approximation and detailed thermodynamical relations. It is found that protostellar formation may involve a few stages of hierarchical fragmentation terminated by increased thermal pressure in the nonisothermal regime, that high thermal energy clouds remain nearly axisymmetric during the first dynamic collapse phase, and that very slowly rotating clouds can fragment. The presolar nebula was probably formed from a cloud with very little initial rotation.
Academic achievement and social behaviors associated with age of entry into kindergarten

Abstract A longitudinal design (kindergarten through third grade) was used to assess the effects of the age at which children entered kindergarten on children's academic achievement, social skills, academic engagement, relationship with teachers, and self ratings of academic skills. The sample was ethnically diverse; all of the over 200 children in the study came from low-income families. Results indicated a modest advantage in academic achievement for children who entered kindergarten at a relatively older age during the first year of school, but this advantage disappeared by third grade. The only advantage found in kindergarten and third grade for children who were relatively old when they entered school was in more positive feelings about their teacher. “Holding out” was rare (less than 1%) in this low-income sample.
Mass education and the limits of state building, c. 1870–1930

edited by Laurence Brockliss and Nicola Sheldon, New York, Palgrave Macmillan, 2012, 336 pp., £60.00, ISBN-10: 0230273505, ISBN-13: 978-0230273504 Building the nation-state is an oft-remarked purpo...
Bootstrap estimation of confidence intervals on mutation rate ratios

The fluctuation test is a useful tool for estimating the mutation rate of cells. However, statistical methods for comparing mutation rate estimates between different strains or conditions have not yet been fully developed. Methods exist for placing confidence intervals on estimates of the number of mutational events in cultures for a given strain and set of conditions, but placing confidence intervals on mutation rate is complicated by differences in the final number of cells in culture between parallel cultures. Additionally, confidence intervals on individual mutation rate estimates are not always the most useful statistical tool when comparing two or more different strains or conditions. We present a bootstrap method for estimating confidence intervals on the quotient of two mutation rates determined from two fluctuation test experiments using experimental and control strains or conditions. We use Monte Carlo simulations to validate this method over a wide range of mutation rates and for empirically measured variation in the estimates of final number of cells in culture. Furthermore, we provide the computational tools to implement the bootstrap method described here on experimental fluctuation test data and to evaluate this method for experimental parameters other than those considered herein.
Impact of the Eden Alternative on Family Satisfaction

Objectives The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of the Eden Alternative on family satisfaction. Design The study was a one-group pre-post design. Families were surveyed prior to the beginning of implementation of the Eden Alternative and again 2 years later. Setting The study was conducted at a 150-bed nursing home in the Midwest. Participants Thirty-seven family members completed the survey at both time points. Intervention More than 80 in-services on the 10 principles of the Eden Alternative were provided to the staff on all shifts over the first year. Implementation of the Eden Alternative began during the second year. Measurements The Family Questionnaire, which measures perception of skill and caring nature of caregivers, quality of activities, the environment, contentment of elders, and relationships with administration, was mailed to a family member of each elder living in the nursing home in March of 2002 and again in March of 2004. Results There was a significant improvement in family satisfaction, as measured by the Family Questionnaire ( P Conclusion The Eden Alternative provided many opportunities for family involvement. The improved satisfaction scores reflected greater communication and interaction among families, staff, and residents.