cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The prevalence of radiological markers of renal osteodystrophy in patients with chronic renal failure in Enugu.

OBJECTIVES: To study the prevalence of renal osteodystrophy in Chronic renal failure patients in Enugu, using radiological methods. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Ninety adult patients (56 male and 34 female) were recruited from the renal clinics of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu over a period of twelve consecutive months. A structured questionnaire was administered and a physical examination carried out at the initial interview. This was followed by other investigations including renal ultrasonography, plain radiographs and laboratory investigations including serum electrolytes, urea and creatinine, calcium and phosphate, total alkaline phosphate and creatinine clearance estimation. RESULTS: There was no obvious relationship between bone pain (a symptom of renal osteodystrophy) and the presence ofradiological features of renal osteodystrophy. The findings of the study showed that renal osteodystrophy, demonstrable by radiography is relatively uncommon, existing in only 3 subjects (3.35%). Among the 3 subjects, 2 showed radiological features of osteitis fibrosa cystica (one male and one female), while the other subject (one female) had radiological features of osteoporosis. All these subjects belonged to group 3 and had been on maintainance haemodialysis for more than 6 months. Other forms of renal osteodystrophy were not demonstrated. CONCLUSION: Renal osteodystrophy is probably not as common in Nigerian patients as in Caucasians and there may be reasons for this.
Does surgery residency prepare residents to work at critical access hospitals

BACKGROUND: Operations performed by surgeons working at Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and surgery residents have not been compared. METHODS: Procedure codes logged by general surgery residents graduating from our institution in 2013 and 2014 were obtained. Procedure codes were obtained for all CAHs in our state for 2012 to 2013. Clinically relevant categories were compared among residents and general surgeons at CAHs. RESULTS: A total of 34,246 procedures logged by general surgeons at CAHs were compared with 31,977 procedures logged by surgery residents. Endoscopy comprised 56.1% of cases done by general surgeons versus 9.1% of cases by residents (P ,.001). Excluding endoscopy, rural surgeons had higher percentages in hernia, skin/soft tissue, cholecystectomy/common bile duct, rectal/anal, and breast cases. Residents who completed a rural surgery rotation had higher numbers in small/large bowel, hernia, breast, and endoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Surgery residency provides less exposure to endoscopy compared with a general surgery practice at CAHs. A rural rotation increases endoscopic exposure.
Formyltetrahydrofolate Synthetase INITIAL VELOCITY AND PRODUCT INHIBITION STUDIES

Abstract The order of binding of the substrates to formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase from Clostridium cylindrosporum was examined by determining the initial velocity of the reaction under varied conditions of substrate and product concentrations. The data from experiments in which the changing fixed substrate was varied in concentration from a value below its Km to a saturating concentration gave intersecting plots of 1/v against 1/s. The results indicate that the substrates bind in a random fashion and that all substrates must be bound before any products are released. In addition, the binding constants of the substrates in the ternary complexes are slightly different from those in the quaternary complex. Inhibition by the three products was examined under varied conditions of substrate concentrations, and the results were found to be most consistent with a random mechanism in which certain "dead end" complexes are formed. Under some conditions orthophosphate showed uncompetitive inhibition. This finding indicates that the inhibition by orthophosphate is more than simple product inhibition.
Adenosine Triphosphate: Uridine Monophosphate-Cytidine Monophosphate Phosphotransferase from Tetrahymena pyriformis

Abstract An enzyme that synthesizes uridine diphosphate from uridine monophosphate and adenosine triphosphate has been purified 300-fold from Tetrahymena pyriformis. The enzyme also converts cytidine monophosphate to cytidine diphosphate and deoxycytidine monophosphate to deoxycytidine diphosphate. The S0.5 was estimated to be 1.5 x 10-3 m for UMP and 0.74 x 10-3 m for CMP. The purified enzyme preparation is stable for at least 2 weeks at 4° when stored at a concentration of 0.2 mg of protein per ml; 3-fold dilution results in rapid inactivation. The enzyme is inhibited by CDP, UDP, and ADP, and by high levels of ATP or Mg++. Kinetic studies suggest that ADP inhibition is competitive with ATP, and that CDP and UDP compete with the analogous monophosphate substrates. It appears that there may be two binding sites for UMP, but that CMP may bind at only one of them.
Optimized flow cytometry isolation of murine spermatocytes.

Meiotic prophase I (MPI), is an initial stage of meiosis characterized by intricate homologous chromosome interactions, synapsis, and DNA recombination. These processes depend on the complex, but poorly understood early MPI events of homologous chromosome search, alignment, and pairing. Detailed molecular investigation of these early events requires isolation of individual MPI substages. Enrichment for Pachytene (P) and Diplotene (D) substages of late MPI was previously accomplished using flow cytometry. However, separation of early MPI spermatocytes, specifically, of Leptotene (L) and Zygotene (Z) substages, has been a challenge due to these cells' similar characteristics. In this report, we describe an optimized Hoechst-33342 (Hoechst)-based flow cytometry approach for isolating individual MPI populations from adult mouse testis. We get significant enrichment for individual L and Z spermatocytes, previously inseparable from each other, and optimize the isolation of other MPI substages. Our flow cytometry approach is a combination of three optimized strategies. The first is optimization of testis dissociation protocol that yields more consistent and reproducible testicular single cell suspension. The second involves optimization of flow cytometric gating protocol where a critical addition to the standard protocol for cell discrimination based on Hoechst fluorescence, involves a back-gating technique based on light scattering parameters. This step specifies selection of individual MPI substages. The third, is an addition of DNA content restriction to the gating protocol to minimize contamination from non-meiotic cells. Finally, we confirm significant enrichment of high-purity Preleptotene (PreL), L, Z, P, and D MPI spermatocytes using stage-specific marker distribution. The technique will facilitate understanding of the molecular events underlying MPI.
Persistence and Growth of Fecal Bacteroidales Assessed by Bromodeoxyuridine Immunocapture

Extraintestinal growth of fecal bacteria can impair accurate assessment of watershed health. Anaerobic fecal bacteria belonging to the order Bacteroidales are attractive candidates for fecal source tracking because they have host-specific distributions and do not grow well in the presence of high oxygen concentrations. Growth of general and human-specific fecal Bacteroidales marker organisms in environmental samples (sewage) and persistence of the corresponding genetic markers were investigated using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) DNA labeling and immunocapture, followed by PCR detection. Background amplification of unlabeled controls occasionally occurred when a high number of PCR cycles was used. By using fluorescent detection of PCR products obtained after 15 cycles, which was determined to be quantitative, we enriched for BrdU-labeled DNA and did not detect unlabeled DNA. By using pure cultures of Bacteroides vulgatus, the ability of Bacteroidales bacteria to take up and incorporate BrdU into nascent DNA was confirmed. Fecal Bacteroidales organisms took up and incorporated BrdU into DNA during growth. In sewage incubated aerobically at the in situ temperature, Bacteroidales genetic marker sequences persisted for at least 24 h and Bacteroidales fecal bacteria grew for up to 24 h as well. Detection by PCR using a low, quantitative cycle number decreased the sensitivity of the assay such that we were unable to detect fecal Bacteroidales human-specific marker sequences in unlabeled or BrdU-labeled fractions, even when fluorescent detection was used. Using 30 PCR cycles with unlabeled fractions, human-specific Bacteroidales sequences were detected, and they persisted for up to 24 h in sewage. These data support the utility of BrdU labeling and immunocapture followed by length heterogeneity PCR or fluorescent detection using low numbers of PCR cycles. However, this method may not be sensitive enough to identify cells that are present at low densities in aquatic environments.
A Study of Schmidt's Phenomenon in the S-Current System and in the 10.7cm Radio Noise Flux

It is shown that the time of ascent and descent of the S-current intensity during an “intense” sunspot cycle is nearly 4 and 7 years, respectively. On the other hand, in a “weak” sunspot cycle the intensity rises to maximum and falls to minimum in about equal periods. Analogous conditions hold true in the case of the 10.7cm radio noise flux. These results are in agreement with the Schmidt's work on sunspot numbers.
On the similarity of effects of aldosterone and adenosine 3',5'-phosphate on Na + transport and glucose metabolism in toad bladder.

Abstract The stimulation of Na + transport in the toad bladder by aldosterone is associated with an increased utilization of oxygen and an increase in the evolution of 14 CO 2 from [6- 14 C]glucose in response to the increased energy requirement of stimulated Na + transport. These are secondary effects of aldosterone and are abolished by the removal of Na + from the mucosal bathing medium and consequent absence of Na + transport. At the same time, however, aldosterone decreases the evolution of 14 CO 2 from [1- 14 C]glucose. This effect persists even in the absence of Na + and has similar characteristics of time of onset, concentration response, steroid specificity, and sensitivity to actinomycin D and spirolactone. Both the effect of aldosterone to decrease the evolution of 14 CO 2 from [1- 14 C]-glucose and its ability to stimulate Na + transport can be reproduced by adenosine 3′,5′-phosphate (cyclic AMP). This has been shown for endogenous cyclic AMP produced by the action of theophylline or vasopressin in combination with theophylline and for exogenous cyclic AMP as seen with N 6 -2′- O -dibutyryl adenosine 3′,5′-phosphate (dibutyryl cyclic AMP) or with cyclic AMP in the presence of low concentrations of theophylline. Although these results suggest that cyclic AMP might mediate the action of aldosterone, no change in tissue concentration of cyclic AMP was found even after prolonged incubation with the hormone.
Management of birth injuries

Abstract This article is merely an effort to indicate the most essential points in the recognition and management of the various types of birth injuries. Through observation of such principles the mortality rates can be materially reduced.
Growth of cotton under chronic ozone stress at two levels of soil moisture

Recent field research has shown that ambient concentrations of ozone(O{sub 3}) have the potential to reduce yield of a number of economically important crop species. Less emphasis has been placed on characterization of the effects of O{sub 3} on growth of the total plant that ultimately determines yield. In this study, the authors measured season-long growth of field-grown cotton that was exposed to a range of O{sub 3} concentrations at two levels of soil moisture, well-watered (WW) and water-stressed (WS). The cotton was exposed for 12 h/d throughout the growing season in open-top chambers to five O{sub 3} concentrations. Three cotton plants were sampled from each chamber at 2-to 3-wk intervals during the season, and biomass and growth measurements were made on all major plant parts. Ozone stress reduced leaf and root biomass in particular, while stem tissues were less affected. Water stress caused fewer significant effects overall than did O{sub 3}, although it appeared to reduce the growth of most plant parts, especially at low O{sub 3} concentrations.
Hydrodynamic Analog Model for Pharmacokinetics II: Critical Examination of Model and its Contribution to Pharmacokinetics

Abstract A comparison of the conventional pharmacokinetic models and the previously proposed hydrodynamic diffusion analog model is presented. A significant result that an n‐ compartment system can exhibit at best (n ‐ 1) extremum times in the concentration‐time plot of the central compartment under appropriate values of physiological parameters is presented. The observation of kinks experimentally in certain physiological‐drug systems is thus shown to be amenable to explanation.
Determination of Stress Intensity Factors for Partial Penetration Axial Cracks in Thin-Walled Cylinders

An approach based on the use of rotation and displacement solutions for a cracked element in plane strain is used to obtain the stress intensity factor for a long axial crack in a thin-walled cylinder. The hoop stress distribution in the cylinder prior to introduction of the crack is arbitrary. Results obtained with this approach are in good agreement with numerical solutions for several hoop stress distributions.
Speaking beauties: Linguistic posturing, language inequality, and the construction of a Tanzanian beauty queen

This article considers language use in Tanzanian beauty pageants, where contestants’ onstage speech is the focus of explicit and implicit critique. In particular, contestants who speak English are far more likely to win than are their Swahili-speaking counterparts. But because English has limited circulation and is restricted to the educated elite, speaking English is, for most contestants, possible only through memorization. Local ideologies that give preference to purity over standardness mean that, while contestants’ speeches are often full of grammatical oddities, their linguistic posturing is typically well received. Yet once a contestant reaches the pinnacle of competition, expectations for language use rise, and once-successful contestants find themselves at a glass ceiling. Findings presented here point to the local and hierarchical nature of language ideologies, and to the need to account for the common practice in multilingual communities of successfully employing “incomplete” linguistic knowledge for indexical and referential effect. (Language ideology, multilingualism, Swahili, English, language purity, beauty pageants, education)*
Thin Markets, Asymmetric Information, and Mortgage-Backed Securities☆

Abstract This paper tries to explain why the issuers of an asset would restrict what information is available about their asset. In a world where knowledge is valued, market forces should induce disclosure, but we often see markets (such as the market for mortgage-backed securities) where assets' issuers refuse to release valuable information. We present a model of market liquidity and find that market liquidity can both rise and fall with the quantity of released information. More information may increase asymmetries of information and “lemons” style breakdowns. We find that asset bundling is more advantageous when private information is more accurate, which may be the case in the mortgage-backed securities market. Journal of Economic Literature Classification Numbers: G14, G32.
Design, dissemination, and evaluation of an advanced communication elective at seven U.S. medical schools.

PurposeTo test educational methods that continue communication training into the fourth year of medical school.MethodThe authors disseminated and evaluated an advanced communication elective in seven U.S. medical schools between 2007 and 2009; a total of 9 faculty and 22 fourth-year students partici
Is there a common control mechanism for anti-saccades and reading eye movements? Evidence from distributional analyses

In the saccadic literature, the voluntary control of eye movement involves inhibiting automatic saccadic plans. In contrast, the dominant view in reading is that linguistic processes trigger saccade planning. The present study explores the possibility of a common control mechanism, in which cognitively driven responses compete to inhibit automatic, perceptually driven saccade plans. A probabilistic model is developed to account for empirical distributions of saccadic response time in anti-saccade tasks (Studies 1 and 2) and fixation duration in reading and reading-like tasks (Studies 3 and 4). In all cases the distributions can be decomposed into a perceptually based component and a component sensitive to cognitive demands. Parametric similarities among the models strongly suggest a shared cognitive control mechanism between reading and other voluntary saccadic tasks.
Barium ferrite thin-film recording media

Abstract Both longitudinal and perpendicular barium ferrite thin films are being pursued as overcoatless magnetic recording media. In this paper, prior research on thin-film Ba ferrite is reviewed and the most recent results are presented. Self-textured high-coercivity longitudinal Ba ferrite thin films have been achieved using conventional rf diode sputtering. Microstructural studies show that c -axis in-plane oriented grains have a characteristic acicular shape, while c -axis perpendicularly oriented grains have a platelet shape. Extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) measurements indicate that the crystal orientations are predetermined by the structural anisotropy in the as-sputtered ‘amorphous’ state. Recording tests on 1500 Oe coercivity longitudinal Ba ferrite disks show performance comparable with that of a 1900 Oe Co alloy disk. To further improve the recording performance, both grain size and aspect ratio need to be reduced. Initial tribological tests indicate high hardness of Ba ferrite thin films. However, surface roughness needs to be reduced. For future ultrahigh-density contact recording, it is believed that perpendicular recording may be used. A thin Pt underlayer has been found to be capable of producing Ba ferrite thin films with excellent c -axis perpendicular orientation.
Institutional Goals: Their Impact on Adult Learners.

A research study of Sinclair's College Without Walls program for adult students was recently conducted through the University of Cincinnati using the Educational Testing Service's “Community College Goals Inventory.” A control group of approximately 100 students enrolled in a traditional program (randomly selected) was compared with an experimental group of approximately 100 College Without Walls students. Statistically, College Without Walls students expressed significantly greater satisfaction with the accomplishment of numerous institutional goals than did their traditional student counterparts. There were no other statistically significant differences in this comparison of two groups on a myriad of other factors from career preparation to institutional environment.
The search for sociological relevance: The teaching and the clinical sociology movements

Within the last several years, sociology has witnessed numerous emerging interests, two of which are clinical sociology and teaching sociology. Although these two movements appear to have little in common, beneath the surface a great deal of commonality exists. This paper examines the similarities and dissimilarities between these movements. In particular, the discussion presents the factors leading to the emergence of these movements, the basic issues articulated by each, and the organizational format developed to address their concerns. The issues that these movements address have implications for the future of sociology. These movements offer the possibility that sociology may become a more applied discipline, a discipline closer to the phenomena it studies, and a discipline confident that it has something to offer.
Sedimentological evidence for early Miocene fault reactivation in the Gulf of Suez

The sedimentary response to early Miocene fault reactivation and marginal uplift in the Gulf of Suez is strikingly evident within the Gemsa half-graben. This mid-Rudeis event occurred in the late Burdigalian (16.5 Ma) approximately 8 m.y. after the onset of rifting. In outcrop, complicated lateral facies transitions reflect the change from a ramped margin to a structurally controlled depositional environment. Angular unconformities and truncation mark this event atop marginal tilt-block crests. Distal downlapping sequences are present in adjacent topographic lows that acted as sand depocenters. Channels draining the rift margins acted as point sources for basinward alluvial-fan development. Sand-ratio isopach maps reveal the presence of four active upper Rudeis Formation fan systems within the Gemsa half-graben.
Design and Construction of a Dual Recharge System at Minot, North Dakotaa

In 1965, a ground-water recharge facility was constructed and placed in operation to forestall an impending water shortage at Minot, North Dakota. The facility is unique in that the rate of recharge to a buried sand and gravel aquifer is augmented by perforating an overlying bed of clay using hydraulic connectors (gravel-filled bored holes) in conjunction with an open-pit excavation. The connectors were drilled by typical well-boring techniques and the open pit was excavated by common construction methods. The recharge technique made it possible to add about million gallons per day of water to underground storage with a total capital investment of about $200,000. The alternative originally proposed was a 50-mile long pipeline to Garrison Reservoir, at a 1959 estimated cost of $12,000,000. The recharge technique employed at Minot should have wide application in the ground-water industry in areas where natural recharge to permeable deposits is impeded by overlying beds of low permeability.
Evaluating Ecological Equivalence of Created Marshes: Comparing Structural Indicators with Stable Isotope Indicators of Blue Crab Trophic Support

This study sought to examine ecological equivalence of created marshes of different ages using traditional structural measures of equivalence, and tested a relatively novel approach using stable isotopes as a measure of functional equivalence. We compared soil properties, vegetation, nekton communities, and δ 13C and δ 15N isotope values of blue crab muscle and hepatopancreas tissue and primary producers at created (5–24 years old) and paired reference marshes in SW Louisiana. Paired contrasts indicated that created and reference marshes supported equivalent plant and nekton communities, but differed in soil characteristics. Stable isotope indicators examining blue crab food web support found that the older marshes (8 years+) were characterized by comparable trophic diversity and breadth compared to their reference marshes. Interpretation of results for the youngest site was confounded by the fact that the paired reference, which represented the desired end goal of restoration, contained a greater diversity of basal resources. Stable isotope techniques may give coastal managers an additional tool to assess functional equivalency of created marshes, as measured by trophic support, but may be limited to comparisons of marshes with similar vegetative communities and basal resources, or require the development of robust standardization techniques.
On the Crystal Structures of the Low-dimensional Clover Phases: Low Temperature Structure of (Benzophenone)4 (Lil5) and Comparison with (Benzophenone)9 (KI)2I7CHCI3

Abstract The complex of benzophenone-lithium pentaiodide crystallizes in space group PI (Z = 2). The unit cell dimensions at 100 K are a = 9.605(5), b = 14.911(3), c = 18.248(4) A, α = 102.35(2), β = 103.45(3) and γ = 91.32(3)[ddot]. The crystal structure consists of infinite columns of I5 molecules each of which is bent at the central iodine atom with an I–I–I angle of 105[ddot]. The pentaiodides are stacked such that one branch of each molecule participates in the column formation, while the second branch forms a two-atom side chain. Neighboring columns of pentaiodides are anti-parallel to each other. The columns of pentaiodide molecules are surrounded by the host benzophenone molecules. Each lithium cation is tetrahedrally coordinated to four oxygens of the benzophenone molecules. A refinement of the occupancy of the iodine atoms gives an iodine deficiency of 7%, equally distributed over all iodine positions. The result is supported by the elemental analysis and the measurements of the density of the c...
The Limits of Transparency: Pitfalls and Potential of Disclosing Conflicts of Interest

We review evidence from our published and ongoing research that disclosing conflicts of interest has unintended consequences, helping conflicted advisors and harming their advisees: With disclosure, advisors feel comfortable giving more biased advice, but advisees do not properly adjust for this and generally fail to sufficiently discount biased advice. Disclosure also increases pressure on advisees to comply with advice; following disclosure, advisees feel more uncomfortable in turning down advice (e.g., it signals distrust of the advisor's motives). Finally, we examine the effectiveness of policy interventions aimed at reducing these unintended consequences and discuss how to realize potential benefits of disclosure.
Using the Finite Difference Time Domain Method as a Design Tool

The finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method has been shown in the last several years to be applicable to guided-wave photonics problems. The application of the method to diffraction gratings, intersecting and bending wave-guides [1], and Bragg mirrors has served to demonstrate that method can solve a set of problems not tractable for more traditional techniques such as the beam propagation method. Although these papers have served to demonstrate the applicability of the FDTD technique, few papers have described the use of the FDTD analysis in a design environment.
The Novel Synthetic Oleanane Triterpenoid CDDO (2-cyano-3, 12-dioxoolean-1, 9-dien-28-oic acid) Induces Apoptosis in Mycosis Fungoides/Sézary Syndrome Cells

The novel synthetic oleanane triterpenoid CDDO (2-cyano-3, 12-dioxoolean-1, 9-dien-28-oic acid) can serve as a ligand for the peroxisome proliferator activator receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) and has been shown to inhibit cell proliferation, and to induce differentiation and apoptosis in tumor cell lines. Bexarotene is an RXR-selective retinoid that can induce apoptosis of mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sezary syndrome (SS) cells. Since the PPAR-γ and RXR receptors can form heterodimers, we studied the effects of CDDO and its synergism with bexarotene on apoptosis in MF/SS cell lines (MJ, Hut78, and HH) and freshly isolated peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) from SS patients with circulating atypical T cells (CD4+CD26-). CDDO treatment at 1–5 μM for 48 h caused a concentration-dependent apoptosis in three MF/SS cell lines and patients' PBL compared to vehicle controls. Bexarotene augmented CDDO-induced apoptosis in these cells. PPAR-γ was expressed but decreased by 47% in MJ, 42% in Hut78, and 77% in HH cells following CDDO treatment. The anti-apoptotic protein bcl-xL, but not bcl-2, was decreased by 69% in MJ, 31% in Hut78, and 59% in HH cells and caspase-3 was activated following CDDO treatment. Interestingly, the PPAR-γ antagonist T007 did not block CDDO-induced apoptosis, and the more potent PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone required much higher concentrations (>50 μM) than CDDO to induce apoptosis in MF/SS cells. In summary, CDDO induces apoptosis that is further enhanced by bexarotene and decreases the PPAR-γ and bcl-xL proteins in MF/SS cells. CDDO's effects on MF/SS cells may be at least partly mediated through a PPAR-γ-independent mechanism. Our findings suggest the rationale for further investigation of the clinical potential of CDDO, either alone or in combination with bexarotene for MF/SS patients.
Rho-associated coiled-coil-forming kinases (ROCKs): potential targets for the treatment of atherosclerosis and vascular disease

ROCKs are important regulators of the actin cytoskeleton. Because changes in the actin cytoskeleton underlie vascular contractility and remodeling, inflammatory cell recruitment, and cell proliferation, it is likely that the Rho/ROCK pathway will play a central role in mediating vascular function. Indeed, increased ROCK activity is observed in cerebral and coronary vasospasm, hypertension, vascular inflammation, arteriosclerosis, and atherosclerosis. Recent experimental and clinical studies suggest that inhibition of ROCK could be a promising target for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. For example, inhibition of ROCK might be the underlying mechanism by which statins or HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors exert their therapeutic benefits beyond cholesterol reduction. In this review we summarize current understanding of the crucial role of RhoA/ROCK pathway in the regulation of vascular function and discuss its therapeutic potential in the treatment of atherosclerosis and vascular disease.
Sample size and bentler and Bonett's nonnormed fit index

Bentler and Bonett's nonnormed fit index is a widely used measure of goodness of fit for the analysis of covariance structures. This note shows that contrary to what has been claimed the nonnormed fit index is dependent on sample size. Specifically for a constant value of a fitting function, the nonnormed index is inversely related to sample size. A simple alternative fit measure is proposed that removes this dependency. In addition, it is shown that this new measure as well as the old nonnormed fit index can be applied to any fitting function that measures the deviation of the observed covariance matrix from the covariance matrix implied by the parameter estimates for a model.
La Légitimité, C'est Moi

Legitimacy in International Society. By Ian Clark. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005. 288 pp., $55.00 (ISBN: 0-19-925842-2). Legitimacy in International Society , by Ian Clark, takes a “distinctive approach to legitimacy” (p. 9) that is cast within the context of “international society.” The book is elegantly divided into two parts: historical international society and contemporary international society. Part I looks at the major peace settlements in Europe: Westphalia, Utrecht, Vienna, Versailles, and 1945 (chapters 2–7). Part II looks at legitimacy after the Cold War. In these latter chapters, Clark methodically treats the issues of legitimacy: membership, consensus, norms, and “equilibrium” (chapters 9–12). The international society approach is, of course, the flagship of the English School of International Relations. This school has been in a state of existential struggle ever since Roy Jones's article over two decades ago argued that the school was “ripe for closure” (Jones 1981:1, 12). There have even been “rumors about the death” of the English School (Mendelsohn 2005:68). In the 1990s, a wave of scholars decided to borrow from regime theory (Buzan 1993), constructivism (Dunne 1995), structural realism (Buzan and Little 1996), and international political economy (Bellamy 2004) in an attempt to rejuvenate the school. To be sure, there can be no closure in the midst of all this intellectual activity. At the same time, there is also a sense that the proponents of the English School are pulling in many directions. In particular, the publication of Barry Buzan and Richard Little's (2000) International Systems in World History has led a number of writers (Hall 2001; Thomas 2001; Sharp 2003) to defend the “classical approach” of the English School, in part because they feel that this new scholarship is moving in a direction that is counter to the spirit and character of the original English School. As a result, there has been a revival of interest in the works …
Apparent release of tobacco mosaic virus in living infected cells.

USING a Zeiss GFL65 phase microscope with ‘Neofluar’ objectives we are attempting to record the sequence of changes produced by tobacco mosaic in living cells of Turkish tobacco. Leaves at intervals after inoculation are prepared by exhausting them of air under water with a high-vacuum pump. Hand sections are cut in a pan of water under a binocular microscope with small pieces of razor blade mounted in a handle. Most sections are paradermal, along or beside veins on the underside of leaves inoculated with tobacco mosaic virus on the upper surface, or on systemically infected leaves. One cell thickness, sometimes obtainable, is ideal; 2 cells may allow images that can be photographed, and occasional observations are possible on pieces 3 cells thick.
An Affordable Machining Laboratory Approach for Undergraduate Engineers

Designers in any industry need to understand the processes involved in making a part beforehand in order to communicate with technicians from trade schools and industry. Even a simple engineering drawing can often not be created due to process limitations (e.g., a perfectly drawn internal 90 degree angle in a CAD drawing does not occur in nature OR in a machine shop). This paper describes an affordable way to teach manufacturing to undergraduate engineering students and in the process provide them with hands on training in a machine shop environment. The goal here is not to create machinists, but to enable future Engineers to understand and talk with designers/machinists. The theme here is not to spend on expensive super machines but on simple machines as emphasized in the Toyota Production System. Students learn the techniques that let technicians produce perfect parts on imperfect, simple machines. The result for Auburn University has been an affordable laboratory that mutually supports undergraduate students, graduate research students, and the university as a whole.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Binding stoichiometry of an RNA aptamer and its transcription factor target.

Abstract RNA molecules serve informational, structural, and catalytic roles in cells. RNA also offers an interesting raw material for the design or genetic selection of modifiers of gene expression. We have been interested in the possibility that natural and/or artificial RNA ligands might be identified for DNA-binding proteins. With these concepts in mind, our laboratory previously isolated a 31-nucleotide RNA aptamer that specifically binds to human transcription factor NF-κB. This RNA aptamer (α-p50) competitively inhibits DNA binding by NF-κB in vitro. The aptamer may target the DNA-binding groove formed by the junction of the two monomers of NF-κB, perhaps mimicking κB duplex DNA. This model predicts a binding stoichiometry of one RNA aptamer per NF-κB dimer. To test this hypothesis, two complementary biophysical methods were utilized. Both analytical ultracentrifugation and microelectrospray mass spectrometry suggest that 1 mol of α-p50 RNA binds per mole of NF-κB p50 homodimer. Such a result is consistent with the observed ability of the RNA aptamer to block the access of transcription factor NF-κB to its binding site on DNA and highlights the question of how an RNA stem–loop structurally mimics a DNA duplex. This work also demonstrates the successful application of mass spectrometry to characterize noncovalent RNA/protein interactions.
Branch and Bound with M algorithm for near optimal MIMO detection with higher order QAM constellation

For multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems, the optimum maximum likelihood (ML) detection requires tremendous complexity as the number of antennas or modulation level increases. This paper proposes a new algorithm which attains the ML performance with significantly reduced complexity. The proposed scheme is based on combining Branch and Bound algorithm (which solves an integer quadratic programming (IQP) problem in each node of the search tree) with M-Algorithm (which chooses M reliable candidates nodes out of the available nodes, in each stage of the search tree, and retain them) and hence we call it BB-M algorithm. The basic idea is analogues to the conventional QRD-M that presented in the literature, but the internal procedures of the algorithm is different, as the proposed algorithm uses the IQP based on BB algorithm. Not just that but also to reach maximum likelihood (ML) performance, the M value in BB-M is less than M in QRD-M. Simulation results show that the proposed detection scheme provides comparable performance to the ML at small M with fixed complexity regardless of the SNR and the constellation size. Hence, it is a promising scheme for optimal and near optimal performance of MIMO systems when adopting higher order QAM constellations.
An animal model that reflects human disease: the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)

The common marmoset is a new world primate belonging to the Callitrichidae family weighing between 350 and 400 g. The marmoset has been shown to be an outstanding model for studying aging, reproduction, neuroscience, toxicology, and infectious disease. With regard to their susceptibility to infectious agents, they are exquisite NHP models for viral, protozoan and bacterial agents, as well as prions. The marmoset provides the advantages of a small animal model in high containment coupled with the immunological repertoire of a nonhuman primate and susceptibility to wild type, non-adapted viruses.
Origin of antimony segregation in GaInSb/InAs strained-layer superlattices

We show how cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy may be used to reconstruct the Sb segregation profiles in GaInSb $/$InAs strained-layer superlattices. These profiles are accurately described by a one-dimensional model parametrizing the spatial evolution of an Sb seed at the InAs-on-GaInSb interface in terms of two-anion-layer exchange. We argue that the segregation seed, which decreases from $\frac{2}{3}$ to $\frac{1}{2}$ monolayer when growth conditions are made less anion rich, has its origin in the Sb-bilayer reconstruction maintained during GaInSb epitaxy.
In-Process Monitoring of Surface Roughness Utilizing Ultrasound

This paper presents the capability of an ultrasonic system for the in-process surface roughness measurement of machined parts. The system uses a focused ultrasonic transducer to measure the reflected amplitude variation of an ultrasonic beam incident on the surface. The robustness of the system is examined by applying the technique to different machined surfaces and investigating the effect of various coupling fluids. Experimental results show that the technique is applicable to the surfaces produced by most production processes. In addition, the capability of in-process measurements is demonstrated by adapting the system to a CNC machining center. Results show in-process measurements correlate well with off-line profilometer data. Tolerance to machine vibration is also shown by comparing the measurement data with the machine spindle on and off.
The Effects of Relaxation Exercises on Anxiety Levels in Psychiatric Inpatients

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of relaxation exercises on anxiety levels in an inpatient general psychiatric unit. The conceptual framework used was holism. A convenience sample of 39 subjects was studied. Anxiety levels were measured prior to and post interventions with the state portion of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Progressive muscle relaxation, meditative breathing, guided imagery, and soft music were employed to promote relaxation. A significant reduction in anxiety level was obtained on the post-test. The findings of this study can be incorporated by holistic nurses to help reduce anxiety levels of general psychiatric inpatients by using relaxation interventions.
Epilepsy surgery in bifrontal injury from prior craniopharyngioma resections

Epilepsy surgery in frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE) has less favorable seizure-free outcomes than temporal lobe epilepsies. Possible contributing factors include fast propagation patterns and large clinically silent areas which are characteristics of the frontal lobes. Bilateral frontal lobe abnormalities on MRI are another relative contraindication to epilepsy surgery. For example, bilateral encephalomalacia may be a presupposition to bilateral or multifocal epilepsy. The possibility of potential disinhibition with already poor reserves may be another deterrent to consideration for resective epilepsy surgery. As such, conventional surgical approaches to intractable epilepsy with bilateral frontal injury may be limited to palliative procedures like vagus nerve stimulation and corpus callosotomy. We present a case in which the epileptogenic zone was a subset of the acquired, bilateral, cystic encephalomalacia. This iatrogenic injury resulted from two prior craniotomies for excision of craniopharyngioma and its recurrence. Following the initial bilateral and subsequent unilateral, subdural grid- and depth electrode-based localization and resection, our patient has remained seizure-free 2 years after epilepsy surgery with marked improvement in her quality of life, as corroborated by her neuropsychological test scores. Our patient's clinical course is testament to the potential role for resective strategies in selected cases of intractable epilepsy associated with bifrontal injury. Reversal of behavioral deficits with frontal lobe epilepsy surgery such as in this patient provides a unique opportunity to further our understanding of the complex nature of frontal lobe function.
Paleohydraulic interpretation of Quaternary alluvium near Golden, Colorado

Quaternary terraces and pediments along Ralston Creek and Clear Creek, near Golden, Colorado, are associated with Verdos, Slocum, Louviers, and Broadway Alluviums. Terrace deposits can be locally correlated on the basis of elevation and relict paleosols. The terrace sediments probably represent aggradation by braided streams flowing from glaciated drainage basins. Engineering hydraulic calculation procedures suggest that flood flows were 2–3 m deep on steep gradients (0.008–0.01). Discharges were as great as 1400 m3/sec, nearly an order of magnitude greater than modern flood discharges. The most useful paleohydraulic calculation techniques were found to be the dimensionless shear approach applied to stream competence and bedload function theory applied to stream capacity.
An Analysis of the Engine Blowdown Process Using Multidimensional Computations

Analyse du processus d'echappement dans un moteur deux temps avec un modele multidimensionnel
Optimization of cytotoxic assay by target cell retention of the fluorescent dye carboxyfluorescein diacetate (CFDA) and comparison with conventional 51CR release assay.

Abstract This paper describes the comparison between a fluorimetric NK assay based on the target cell retention of fluorescent dye carboxyfluorescein diacetate (cFDA) and standard 51 Cr release assay. The results provide several suggestions to improve the cytotoxic assay based on the use of the fluorogenic substrate showing that the measurements of cFDA retained by target cells represent a method of evaluating cytotoxicity completely comparable to the 51 Cr release assay.
The effect of asymmetric electrodes on the analysis of electrochemical impedance and noise data

Collection of electrochemical potential and current noise data for determination of the noise resistance and evaluation of the frequency dependence of characteristic noise parameters requires the use of two identical electrodes, i.e. electrodes with the same electrode kinetics. When the requirement of the use of identical electrodes is not fulfilled, complications can arise in the interpretation of noise data. Similar problems can occur in the measurement and interpretation of impedance spectra as has been demonstrated for polymer coated steel, where the properties of the electrode with the more protective coating dominate the experimental results. An equivalent circuit for asymmetric electrodes is being proposed which allows monitoring of coating degradation even if only one electrode has developed coating damage. Experimental data for three different coating systems on steel exposed to artificial and natural seawater for several months are presented. A significant decrease of the noise resistance was observed only when damage to the coating on both electrodes had occurred.
On the role of adenyl cyclase in the regulation of lipolysis in fasting

Abstract Epididymal fat pads from fasting rats were more sensitive to the lipolytic effects of theophylline than fat pads from fed animals, but the maximum response to this agent was the same in both groups. From these results it may be inferred that fasting did not change the amount of adipose tissue lipase. The amount of activatable adenyl cyclase in adipose tissue was increased about 2-fold by fasting, as shown by direct assay of the enzyme as well as by the increase in the maximum lipolytic response to norepinephrine (NE) in vitro . However, in vivo the adenyl cyclase appears to be activated by a nonadrenergic system, since the rise in free fatty acids (FFA) is not inhibited by propranolol, a beta adrenergic blocking drug, though it is inhibited by nicotinic acid. Kinetic analysis of the inhibitory effects of propranolol on lipolytic responses to NE in vitro suggest that characteristics of the receptor, presumably adenyl cyclase, are similar in fasting and fed animals.
Life Cycle Approach to Construction Workspace Modeling and Planning

AbstractWorkspace planning is critical for effective construction planning and control, and workspace modeling is an essential part of computer-aided workspace planning. The existing construction four-dimensional (4D) models, which have gained popularity in construction as an effective tool for planning, control, and communication, lack efficient means to capture the dynamic nature of workspaces to avoid potential workspace conflicts in future construction. This paper presents a life-cycle approach to workspace modeling and planning by first investigating the dynamic nature of the workspace requirements of construction activities and then introducing a conceptual framework to format space usages into life-cycle workspace evolution patterns. Specifically, an object-oriented data structure was designed and implemented to incorporate workspace representation into construction product models, and a workspace identification and adjustment method was created to facilitate the creation of construction workspaces...
Composite Interaction Energy and Constituent Average Stresses for Predicting Composite Failure

Complex interactions in fiber-reinforced composites between multiple failure mechanisms have made accurate failure prediction a daunting challenge. One approach to better identify failure mechanisms has been the use of volume average constituent stresses in the composite to predict the onset and outcome of failure in individual constituents. However, this approach was shown here to not conserve strain energy in the composite, which could potentially affect the accuracy of failure prediction under certain loading conditions. The focus of this work was to develop an expression for the discrepancy in strain energy, termed the interaction energy, and to numerically evaluate the influence of constituent properties, fiber volume fraction, and load combinations on the magnitude of this energy. The simulation results showed that interaction energy accounts for nearly 30% of the total strain energy in the composite for certain loading conditions in typical aerospace-grade carbon-epoxy composites, suggesting that e...
The Share 709 System: Input-Output Translation

The 709 System Committee agreed from the start that the system, to be complete, should contain some provision for input and output translation at the program execution or customer level. The big pr...