cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nontraumatic spinal cord injury: Incidence, epidemiology, and functional outcome

Abstract Objectives: To identify and compare the incidence, demographics, neurologic presentation, and functional outcome of individuals with nontraumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) to individuals with traumatic SCI. Design: A 5-year prospective study. Setting: Level I trauma center of a Regional SCI Model System. Patients: Two hundred twenty adult SCI admissions. Main Outcome Measures: Demographics, etiology, level and completeness of injury, Functional Independent Measure (FIM) scores. Results: Of SCI admissions, 39% were nontraumatic in etiology (spinal stenosis, 54%; tumor, 26%). Compared to subjects with traumatic SCI, those individuals with nontraumatic SCI were significantly ( p p p p Conclusions: These data suggest that individuals with non-traumatic SCI represent a significant proportion of SCI rehabilitation admissions and, although differing from those with traumatic SCI in demographic and injury patterns, can achieve similar functional outcomes.
Spectrophotometric, potentiometric, and density gradient ultracentrifugation studies of the binding of silver ion by DNA

The equilibrium and the stoichiometry for the reversible complexing of silver ion by DNA have been studied by potentiometric titrations, proton release pH-stat titrations, and by spectrophotometry. The complexing reactions involve primarily the purine and pyrimidine residues, not the phosphate groups. There are at least three types of binding (types I, II, and III), of which the first two have been intensively studied in this work. The sum of type I and type II binding saturates at one silver atom per two nucleotide residues. In the type I and type II reactions, zero and one proton, respectively, are displaced per silver ion bound. At pH 5.6, the reactions occur stepwise, type I being first, while at pH 8.0, they occur simultaneously. The silver ion binding curve is very sharp at pH 8, indicating a cooperative reaction. The strength of the binding increases with increasing GC content. Type I binding is more important for GC-rich DNA's than for GC-poor ones. Denatured DNA binds more strongly than does native DNA. The silver ion complexing reaction is chemically and biologically reversible. We propose that type II binding essentially involves the conversion of an hydrogen bond of a complementary base pair to an N—Ag—N bond. The nature of type I binding is less clear, but it may involve a π interaction with stacked bases. The buoyant density (ρ0) of DNA in a Cs2SO4 density gradient increases when the DNA reacts with silver ion. The buoyant density change is about 0.15 g./ml. for 0.5 silver bound per nucleotide. The large buoyant density changes and the selective nature of the complexing reaction make it possible to perform good separations between native and denatured DNA or between GC-rich and GC-poor native DNA's by density gradient centrifugation.
Spontaneous genetic hypertension in the rat and its relationship to reduced ac cochlear potentials: implications for preservation of human hearing.

Abstract We present controlled laboratory studies of the spontaneously hypertensive rat which indicate that hypertension is an important pathophysiological risk factor in age-related hearing loss. Our results are in concert with previous retrospective clinical studies that pointed to this possibility in man. Hypertension as a risk factor for hearing loss is within the bounds of known measures of diagnosis, treatment, and even prevention, with monitoring early in life. Because hypertension is such a major public health problem in the United States, in view of our results it is possible that its treatment and early diagnosis will benefit a significant number of people who would otherwise lose their hearing with advancing age. We compared the round window ac cochlear potential-sensitivity and -intensity functions in 10 female spontaneously hypertensive rats and 10 female normotensive Wistar-Kyoto control rats. The animals were all 12 months old and weighed between 170 and 250 g. The normotensives had higher maximum cochlear potential-intensity values compared with the hypertensives: 1,000 Hz (P less than 0.005), 5,000 Hz (P less than 0.005), and 10,000 Hz (P less than 0.01). One-microvolt isopotential cochlear potentials for the low frequencies of the normotensives showed greater sensitivity than those of the hypertensives: 100 Hz (P less than 0.05), 200 Hz (P less than 0.10), 290 Hz (P less than 0.05), and 2,000 Hz (P less than 0.10). Blood pressure of the hypertensive group was significantly greater than that of the normotensive rats (P less than 0.001). The hearts and aortas of the hypertensive group were hypertrophied. Autonomic imbalance, platelet aggregation, decreased arterioles, and natriuretic hormone were discussed as possible etiologies for the measured sensory hearing loss.
Computation and mutagenesis suggest a right-handed structure for the synaptobrevin transmembrane dimer.

Biological membrane fusion involves a highly precise and ordered set of protein–protein interactions. Synaptobrevin is a key player in this process. Mutagenesis studies of its single transmembrane segment suggest that it dimerizes in a sequence specific manner. Using the computational methods developed for the successful structure prediction of the glycophorin A transmembrane dimer, we have calculated a structural model for the synaptobrevin dimer. Our computational search yields a well-populated cluster of right-handed structures consistent with the experimentally determined dimerization motif. The three-dimensional structure contains an interface formed primarily by leucine and isoleucine side-chain atoms and has no interhelical hydrogen bonds. The model is the first three-dimensional picture of the synaptobrevin transmembrane dimer and provides a basis for further focused experimentation on its structure and association thermodynamics. Proteins 2001;45:313–317. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
In situ formation of metal-ceramic microstructures in the Ni-Al-O system by partial reduction reactions

Abstract Metal-ceramic microstructures were obtained by partial reduction of the spinel compound NiAl2O4. Electron microscopy studies were performed for microstructural characterization, phase identification and chemical analysis. Depending on the reduction temperature, two different morphologies of nearly pure Ni particles, equiaxed and rod-like, form within a ceramic matrix. The equiaxed Ni particles (0.02–0.5 μm in diameter) are embedded in α-Al2O3, while the rod-like Ni particles (∼ 5 μm in length and ∼ 0.1 μm in diameter) are in a metastable “defect spinel” containing much less Ni than NiAl2O4. The fracture toughness of the NiAl2O3 mixture was significantly improved with respect to that of the original spinel phase.
Environmental controls on stable isotope precipitation values over Mali and Niger, West Africa

This study evaluated the effects of the environmental factors precipitation amount (P), temperature (T), and vapor pressure (V p) on the stable isotope composition (δ) of precipitation and the excess-deuterium (d) parameter in Mali and Niger, West Africa. At both locations, δ values were greatly affected by seasonal climatic conditions and a statistically significant negative correlation was observed between δ and P. In Mali, a statistically significant negative correlation was also observed between δ and V p. There was no statistically significant correlation between δ and T. Mean-weighting of δ values may be masking both dry-season and individual storm event precipitation phenomena, which are otherwise observed in arithmetically averaged δ values. Mean monthly d values for peak monsoonal months indicate that precipitation is first-fraction, gaining little recycled water on its journey inland from the Atlantic Ocean near the equator. Agreement between rainy-season precipitation and groundwater δ values, specifically peak monsoonal months, indicates that groundwater is being recharged by infiltration of current monsoonal rains and is not paleo-groundwater recharged under past climatic conditions. Similarity between rainy-season precipitation and groundwater d values provide another indication that monsoonal precipitation under current climatic conditions is the source of groundwater recharge. The knowledge that groundwater is recently recharged monsoonal rains, rather than paleo-groundwater, is important for evaluating groundwater sustainability and the effects that climate change will have on water resources. Understanding and predicting changes in precipitation amounts and intensities, which ultimately affect timing and amount of groundwater recharge, is critical for water resource management.
Double mutant MRL‐lpr/lpr‐gld/gld cells fail to trigger lpr‐graft‐versus‐host disease in syngeneic wild‐type recipient mice, but can induce wild‐type B cells to make auto‐antibody

Lethally irradiated mice reconstituted with histocompatible stem cells from Fas-deficient MRL/lpr mice develop a wasting syndrome reminiscent of chronic graft-versus-host disease. However, reconstitution with double Fas-/Fas ligand (FasL)-deficient stem cells does not result in wasting disease, demonstrating that FasL expression is an important component of the effector mechanisms leading to this syndrome. In the absence of wasting disease double-deficient T cells can induce wild-type B cells to make autoantibodies. These data indicate that autoantibody production is regulated by FasL-expressing T cells, and that Fas-sufficient wild-type B cells differ from Fas-deficient Ipr cells only with regard to their sensitivity to FasL.
Determinants of Migration Intentions in Hubei Province, China: Individual versus Family Migration

The author examines the determinants of migration intentions in Hubei province in central China. The analysis suggests that temporary migrants are more likely to migrate than are comparable permanent migrants or nonmigrants. The results also indicate that males are more likely to migrate as individuals than are females. Although age has a great deterrent impact on family migration, being married shows a much greater negative effect on planning an individual migration. Also, family network proves to be more important for determining individual migration than family migration. The results lend support to the notion that temporary migrants in cities do consider themselves as temporary residents and are therefore more likely to migrate again in the near future. They also confirm the argument that different factors play significant roles in individual versus family migration, and highlight the importance in distinguishing the two in empirical studies in developing countries.
Multilayer terahertz metamaterials: Interactions between layers within the deep-subwavelength limit

Split-ring-resonators (SRR) play a significant role in the design and realization of metamaterials over a wide range of the electromagnetic spectrum. In addition to single SRR layers, a number of demonstrations have been carried out to understand the bulk properties of multiple layer structures. Usually, the SRR layers are separated by dielectrics with a layers spacing > λ res /30. We present the effect of layer separations on the fundamental inductive-capacitive (LC) resonances for SRR based metamaterials. We have investigated the effect of layer separations for (i) closed split ring resonator (CSRR), (ii) SRR with their splits oriented in the same direction, and (iii) SRR with their splits oriented in opposite directions. Our results show that separation thickness plays a significant role for the oppositely oriented layers. The LC resonance disappears when the separation between layers is less a micron (∼λ res /1000) and the composite behaves as a closed ring resonator. However, the separation has a very minimum effect when splits on SRRs are oriented in same direction.
Molecular dynamics simulation of the surface reconstruction and strain relief in Si1-xGex/Si(100) heterostructures

The structure of a variety of Si1-xGex/Si heterostructures, as well as bulk Si(100) and Ge(100) modelled by the Stillinger-Weber potential, have been simulated by molecular dynamics to investigate the surface reconstruction and strain relief in the SiGe thin films. It was found that the strain in SiGe/Si(100) thin films was relaxed by the segregation of Ge to the surface. Rebonding of sub-surface atoms into dimers in the presence of a vacancy or cluster of vacancies above them was observed in the ensuing surface reconstruction. For SiGe/Si, the amount of 'rebonded missing dimers' in the surface increased with increasing Ge composition. However, for Ge/Si(100), a V-shaped defect was observed in the Ge thin film. For bulk Si, several rebonded missing dimers were found at the surface, while for bulk Ge(100) the surface showed a typical 2*1 reconstruction. All these findings corroborate recent related experimental studies and theoretical predictions.
A Comparison of Criminological and Public Health Models: Geographic and Social Diversity Associated with Methamphetamine Laboratory Seizures

In the 1990s methamphetamine (meth) emerged as a significant drug problem in the United States. Along with more widespread meth use was a growing pattern of localized production of the drug in small-scale clandestine laboratories, creating public health issues beyond the drug’s direct harms to the health of users. Early efforts in analyzing aggregate patterns of meth lab production across communities suggest this phenomenon is different from other types of crime and drug problems, showing distinctive geographic patterns and different causal/etiological dynamics. This paper assesses the viability of public health outcomes as predictors of methamphetamine laboratory problems and compares them with traditional criminological predictors as explanations for aggregate patterns in meth lab problems across U.S. counties. It documents how local variations in meth production are different from other types of crime patterns and identifies whether geographic variations in local meth labs might be more effectively predicted and explained in public health terms.
In vitro changes in human tenocyte cultures obtained from proximal biceps tendon: multiple passages result in changes in routine cell markers

Results of in vitro cell models are commonly used to promote new therapies (e.g., platelet-rich plasma), and clinicians have to be aware of the specific limitations of such models. To gain a sufficient and effective cell load, many current in vitro models use cells multiplied through various passages. This is especially important in tendon-like cell (TLC) models, since native tendon tissue is not available unlimited and contains limited amount of tenocytes. The purpose was to determine the occurrence of phenotypic changes following extended monolayer culture of TLCs, according to cell-passage number. Tendon samples were obtained from 15 healthy patients undergoing biceps tenodesis. Tendons were digested and cultured (monolayer) for six passages. Tendon-specific markers (collagens I and III, decorin, tenascin-C, and tenomodulin) and their histology were analyzed using gene expression and protein content assays. Native cells, the cells cultured and cells passaged one to six times were analyzed at each passage. Gene expression of types I and III collagen of cultured TLCs significantly decreased after two passages. Gene expression of decorin, tenascin-C, and tenomodulin exhibited a trend of decreased gene expression with increased passage. Protein levels of types I and III collagen and decorin decreased after four passages. The significant findings let conclude that tenocyte-like cells obtained from human LHB can be maintained in monolayer culture at low passages, before the signs of phenotypic drift are present. But researchers must be aware of rapid phenotypic drift at higher passage numbers. Therefore, only cells within the first 3 passages should be used as a precaution for in vitro monolayer cell models, and one has to be aware of the phenotypic changes if TLCs passaged multiple times are used. The clinical relevance of this data is that understanding of in vitro TLC models, and their limitations may finally help the clinician to judge the potential of experimental data of new biologic treatment options.
How bent can a benzene be? The molecular structure, infrared spectrum and energetics of [6]paracyclophane

Abstract Ab initio molecular quantum mechanical methods have been applied to the [6] paracyclophane molecule (C 12 H 16 ), prepared by M. Jones and co-workers in 1974. The complete molecular structure has been predicted via the self-consistent-field (SCF) method, using both minimum and double-zeta [C(9s5p/4s2p), H(4s/2s)] basis sets. The critical geometrical parameter is the deviation φ of the benzene ring from planarity, and φ is predicted to be 17.2° and 18.6°, respectively, with the minimum and double-zeta (DZ) basis sets. The DZ angle agrees well with the experimental values, 19.4° and 20.7° , taken from crystal structures of substituted [6] paracyclophanes. These bending angles φ are 5.2° (minimum basis) and 5.1° (DZ basis) less than the analogous theoretical predictions for the less stable [5] paracyclophane. DZ SCF harmonic vibrational frequencies and infrared intensities are presented and compared with analogous predictions for benzene. The vertical excitation energies for the lowest triplet and first excited singlet states of [6] paracyclophane are also investigated. Finally the resonance energy is predicted from a suitable homodesmotic reaction and compared to the analogous result for benzene. The question of whether [6] paracyclophane is aromatic is discussed from several different perspectives.
Offender-target redistribution on a new public transport system

This study seeks evidence that a newly introduced light rail system has altered the crime opportunity structure in a north-eastern United States city. New public transport systems may affect crime opportunities in their constituent neighborhoods, either by introducing non-local offenders to previously unexplored ‘hunting grounds’, or by delivering new opportunities to local offenders already active in station neighborhoods. Chi-square analyses of arrest data connected to offenses committed in station areas before and after service introduction found little evidence that the new system had either introduced non-local offenders to its constituent neighborhoods or contributed with new targets to local offenders. These findings are important to transport planners and crime scientists alike, as this evidence may help to both reframe public discourse about potential transport system effects on local crime and aid law enforcement in crafting crime prevention strategies.
Rheological Modeling of Lubrication Flows (Keynote)

Impressive strides have been made in the atomistic modeling of lubrication, notably in the case of very thin (nanoscale) flows. However, from an engineering point of view, particularly as it pertains to design, practical predictive ability seems far away. Continuum approaches are surprisingly robust and appear to have validity to the nanometer range, although the Newtonian fluid model may need to be modified to account for non-classical behavior. Various fluid rheological models are discussed below as they pertain to lubrication in complex flow applications.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Field- and Phage-Induced Dipolar Couplings in a Homodimeric DNA Quadruplex: Relative Orientation of G·(C−A) Triad and G-Tetrad Motifs and Direct Determination of C2 Symmetry Axis Orientation

We present a new NMR procedure for determining the three-dimensional fold of C2-symmetric nucleic acid homodimers that relies on long-range orientational constraints derived from the measurement of two independent sets of residual dipolar couplings under two alignment conditions. The application is demonstrated on an (15)N/(13)C-enriched deoxyoligonucleotide sequence, d(G-G-G-T-T-C-A-G-G), shown previously to dimerize into a quadruplex in solution and form a pair of G.(C-A) triads and G-G-G-G tetrads (G-tetrad) motifs. One-bond (1)H-(15)N ((1)D(NH)) and (1)H-(13)C ((1)D(CH)) residual dipolar couplings have been measured between nuclei in the bases of these motifs using bacteriophage as an ordering medium, and under direct magnetic field alignment (800 MHz). By combining the two dipolar data sets in an order matrix analysis, the orientation of the G.(C-A) triad relative to the G-tetrad within a contiguous monomeric unit can directly be determined, even in the presence of interstrand/intrastrand NOE ambiguity. We further demonstrate that the orientation of the C2-axis of molecular symmetry in the homodimer relative to the G.(C-A) triad and G-tetrad motifs can unambiguously be determined using the two sets of independent dipolar coupling measurements. The three-dimensional fold of the homodimer determined using this procedure is very regular and in excellent agreement with a previously determined high-resolution NOE-based NMR structure, where interstrand/intrastrand NOEs were treated as ambiguous and where noncrystallographic symmetry constraints were implicitly imposed during the structure calculation.
A proposal for a computer-based interactive scientific community

Because of the problems created by the explosion of papers in the mathematical sciences and the drawbacks that this places on research, it is suggested that a tree of all mathematical results and terminology be maintained in a multiterminal computer system. Users of the system can store in the computer an updated file of their current knowledge, and on selecting a paper to read, they can obtain from the computer the minimum subtree of theorems required to bring them from what they already know to the background knowledge which the paper assumes. Under certain conditions, means are also provided for the contribution of useful comments by the readers of a work and for interaction between commentators and with the author. This paper describes how the system can be organized and the role required of readers, writers, and commentators.
The Vernacular Middle West

Abstract Contrary to the writings of academicians and journalists, college students from most sections of the country perceive the Middle West to have its core in Nebraska and Kansas. In a 1980 survey, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio seldom were seen as part of the region except by their own residents. Business and organization names using the term Middle West also are at their greatest relative frequency in the plains states, matching the collegiate perceptions. Regional images provide an explanation for the cognitive map patterns. Americans view the Middle West overwhelmingly in rural, small town terms. Even residents of the industrialized states of the Old Northwest hold this view. Pastoralism apparently has been so much a part of the regional and national identity that people find the idea difficult to abandon. Rather than changing the regional image to fit urban-industrial reality, the public has shifted the regional core westward to the Great Plains where rural society is more dominant.
Enhanced solubilization of a metal-organic contaminant mixture (Pb, Sr, Zn, and perchloroethylene) by cyclodextrin.

Prior work has suggested that (carboxymethyl)-β-cyclodextrin (CMCD) is capable of simultaneously enhancing the solubility of organics and metals, but sparse experimental data and no theoretical models have been published on this process. Preciously, a geochemical model for metal complexation by CMCD was formulated using PHREEQC on the basis of conditional stability constants measured in experiments using single-metal salts. In this study, the model is expanded to simultaneous metal and organic (perchloroethylene, PCE) complexation by CMCD. Experiments to verify the application of the formulation to mixed-waste systems were performed using solutions containing multiple metal ions (Pb, Sr, and Zn) and in a separate experiment introducing PCE with multiple metal ions. These experimental results show simultaneous solubility enhancement of metals and PCE. For solutions up to about 50 g/L CMCD, the model accurately predicted the simultaneous solubility enhancement for PCE, Pb, and Zn, while the difference betwe...
Outer heliospheric radio emissions: 1. Constraints on emission processes and the source region

Observations by Voyager 1 and 2 of LF radio emissions near 2 and 3 kHz during the interval 1983-1987 while at heliocentric distances from 15 to 27 AU and 11 to 20 AU, respectively, are reported. Constraints on the emission processes and source characteristics are discussed. Minimum Langmuir wave electric fields in the source region, based solely on the kinematics of the radiation processes, lie in the range 1-100 micro-V/m for nominal source and electron beam parameters. Path lengths for fundamental and harmonic emission processes are calculated. The observed levels of radiation can be produced in path lengths and source dimensions smaller than 1 AU provided the participating Langmuir waves have effective temperatures of about 10 exp 17 K. Previous source models for the radiation are discussed.
Ligamente als Entstehungsort berufsbedingter Störungen

Zusammenfassung Der Artikel gibt einen Uberblick uber die biomechanischen und neurologischen Eigenschaften von Ligamenten, unter Berucksichtigung neuer Gesichtspunkte zu ihrer Rolle als Quelle neuromuskuloskelettaler Storungen aufgrund berufsbedingter Aktivitaten. Creep, Spannung/Entspannung, Hysterese, Empfindlichkeit gegen Uberlastungsrate und Uberlastungs-/Belastungsfrequenz werden als Ursache nicht nur eines funktionellen Abbaus, sondern auch der Entstehung von sensorisch-motorischen Storungen mit kurz- und langfristigen Implikationen fur die Funktionsfahigkeit und Behinderung vorgestellt. Die jungst aufgedeckten Beziehungen zwischen Kollagenfasern, mechanischer Stimulierung, Mikroschadigung von Gewebe, akuter und chronischer Entzundung und neuromuskularen Storungen werden unter speziellem Hinweis auf berufsbedingte Stressoren dargestellt.
Counting molecules in single organelles with superresolution microscopy allows tracking of the endosome maturation trajectory

Cells tightly regulate trafficking of intracellular organelles, but a deeper understanding of this process is technically limited by our inability to track the molecular composition of individual organelles below the diffraction limit in size. Here we develop a technique for intracellularly calibrated superresolution microscopy that can measure the size of individual organelles as well as accurately count absolute numbers of molecules, by correcting for undercounting owing to immature fluorescent proteins and overcounting owing to fluorophore blinking. Using this technique, we characterized the size of individual vesicles in the yeast endocytic pathway and the number of accessible phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate binding sites they contain. This analysis reveals a characteristic vesicle maturation trajectory of composition and size with both stochastic and regulated components. The trajectory displays some cell-to-cell variability, with smaller variation between organelles within the same cell. This approach also reveals mechanistic information on the order of events in this trajectory: Colocalization analysis with known markers of different vesicle maturation stages shows that phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate production precedes fusion into larger endosomes. This single-organelle analysis can potentially be applied to a range of small organelles to shed light on their precise composition/structure relationships, the dynamics of their regulation, and the noise in these processes.
Paraveinal Mesophyll of Soybean Leaves in Relation to Assimilate Transfer and Compartmentation : III. Immunohistochemical Localization of Specific Glycopeptides in the Vacuole after Depodding.

Immunohistochemical staining was used to determine the cellular distribution of two glycosylated polypeptides (molecular weights of 27 and 29 kilodaltons) which are normally present at low levels in soybean ( Glycine max var `Wye9) leaves but which markedly accumulate after depodding. These polypeptides, which comprise a substantial portion of the total leaf soluble protein of depodded plants, were exclusively located in the vacuoles of paraveinal mesophyll and associated bundle sheath cells. These results support the unique role of the soybean leaf paraveinal mesophyll in the transport and spatial compartmentation of nitrogen reserves in relation to seed filling.
Effect of “Sex” of Tissue Cultures on Growth of Encephalomyocarditis Virus.

SummaryWhen EMC virus was grown in cultures of mouse muscle, it multiplied more rapidly and to a greater degree in the tissue obtained from female animals. The quantity of virus used to produce infection was an important determinant in demonstration of this phenomenon. The sex differences did not appear to be related to the number of cells present in the muscle culture at time of viral inoculation.
Dynamic behaviour of anchors in cracked and uncracked concrete: a progress report☆

Abstract In early 1993, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission began a research program at The University of Texas at Austin, dealing with the dynamic behavior of anchors in cracked and uncracked concrete. In this paper, the progress of that research program is reviewed. The test program is summarized, and work performed to date is reviewed, with emphasis on the dynamic and static behavior of single tensile anchors in uncracked concrete. General conclusions from that work are discussed, and future plans are presented.
Computing special functions of mathematical physics

Relations between special mathematical functions and computational physics are discussed, needs and opportunities are presented, and a reference book with CD-ROM, the Atlas for Computing Mathematical Functions (Wiley, 1997), is described. Future advances in visualizing and computing special functions are outlined.
Magnetic-Field Dependence of Microwave Absorption and Energy Gap in Superconducting Films

We have measured the change in absorption of microwave radiation by superconducting indium, tin, and lead films as a function of magnetic field. Experiments have been conducted on films 145-700 \AA{} thick using 8-mm- and 4-mm-wavelength microwave radiation, primarily with the magnetic field parallel to the plane of the film, but also as a function of angle between the magnetic field and the plane of the film. We observe a second-order phase change in the magnetic field, as is to be expected for films of this thickness according to the theories of Ginzburg and Landau and of Nambu and Tuan. The angular dependence of the critical field found in our measurements is in good agreement with the theory of one of the authors, which predicts an angular dependence given by the formula $(\frac{{H}_{c}sin\ensuremath{\theta}}{{H}_{c\ensuremath{\perp}}})+{(\frac{{H}_{c}cos\ensuremath{\theta}}{{H}_{c\mathrm{II}}})}^{2}=1$.We have attempted to infer the magnetic-field dependence of the effective energy gap $\ensuremath{\Delta}$ from our absorption measurements in a parallel magnetic field. This inference was made by using the calculations of Miller, based on the theory of Mattis and Bardeen. The magnetic-field dependence of $\ensuremath{\Delta}$ which we found is not in agreement with previous experiment and theory, as $\ensuremath{\Delta}$ decreases much more rapidly in low magnetic fields in our experiments, nor is it completely consistent for the two frequencies used. Thus, it appears from our experimental absorption measurements that the effect of a magnetic field on a superconducting film cannot be adequately described simply by introducing a field-dependent energy-gap parameter.
Brassinosteroid-independent function of BRI1/CLV1 chimeric receptors

CLAVATA1 (CLV1) and BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE 1 (BRI1) belong to the leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase (LRR-RLK) family, comprising more than 200 members in Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. and playing important roles in development and defence responses in many plant species (Dievart and Clark 2003, 2004; Shiu and Bleecker 2001a, b). To dissect the mechanisms of receptor function, we assessed the ability of chimeric proteins containing regions from two different receptors to function in vivo. Using domains from the receptor-kinases CLAVATA1 and BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE1, we tested the ability of the resulting chimeric receptors to replace CLV1 function. Receptors with the BRI1 extracellular domain and CLV1 kinase domain were able to partially replace CLV1 function. Both loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations within the BRI1 leucine-rich repeats (LRRs) altered the extent of rescue. Chimeric receptor function was unaffected by addition of either exogenous brassinosteroids (BR) or BR biosynthesis inhibitors, suggesting that the chimeric receptors function in a ligand-independent fashion. We propose that the BRI1 LRR domain drives chimeric receptor homodimerisation, and that the BRI1 LRR domain mutations influence homodimerisation efficiency independent of ligand binding.
Calibration of measured center of pressure of a new stairway design for kinetic analysis of stair climbing

Abstract A stairway that allows the collection of kinetic data is essential for biomechanical studies on stair climbing. There is a need to validate the measured center of pressure (COP) on the surface of a stair in order to verify the accuracy of the calculation of joint kinetics. The purpose of this study was to validate a new stairway design for kinetic analysis of stair climbing through a calibration and error analysis of the COP obtained from this system. The new stairway design allows the collection of kinetic data for multiple steps without any constraint to foot placement. Known vertical forces were applied to known locations on the surface of each stair and each force plate. Multiple regression analyses were conduced to determine the distribution pattern of the error in the measured COP. It was found that the error in the COP was a function of location on the stair or force plate. The magnitude of the vertical force had no significant effect on the error in the measured COP. The distribution pattern of the error in the measured COP on the force plates used in this study matched the results in the literature. A healthy female subject was used as the subject in a stair climbing test. The error in the measured COP had a significant effect on the calculated joint resultant moments, especially the abduction-adduction and internal-external rotation moments. The correction of these errors should make the kinetic calculation in stair climbing more accurate.
Improving the catalytic activity of hyperthermophilic Pyrococcus prolidases for detoxification of organophosphorus nerve agents over a broad range of temperatures.

Prolidase isolated from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus has potential for application for decontamination of organophosphorus compounds in certain pesticides and chemical warfare agents under harsh conditions. However, current applications that use an enzyme-based cocktail are limited by poor long-term enzyme stability and low reactivity over a broad range of temperatures. To obtain a better enzyme for OP nerve agent decontamination and to investigate structural factors that influence protein thermostability and thermoactivity, randomly mutated P. furiosus prolidases were prepared by using XL1-red-based mutagenesis and error-prone PCR. An Escherichia coli strain JD1 (λDE3) (auxotrophic for proline [ΔproA] and having deletions in pepQ and pepP dipeptidases with specificity for proline-containing dipeptides) was constructed for screening mutant P. furiosus prolidase expression plasmids. JD1 (λDE3) cells were transformed with mutated prolidase expression plasmids and plated on minimal media supplemented with 50 μM Leu-Pro as the only source of proline. By using this positive selection, Pyrococcus prolidase mutants with improved activity over a broader range of temperatures were isolated. The activities of the mutants over a broad temperature range were measured for both Xaa-Pro dipeptides and OP nerve agents, and the thermoactivity and thermostability of the mutants were determined.
Fermi level splitting and thermionic current improvement in low-dimensional multi-quantum-well (MQW) p-i-n structures

Abstract Photo-excitation and subsequent thermionic currents are essential components of photo-excited carrier transport in multi-quantum-well photovoltaic (hetero-PV) structures. p-i-n multi-quantum structures are useful probes for a better understanding of PV device properties. Illumination of the intrinsic region of p-i-n multi-structures causes carrier trapping in any of the quantum wells, and subsequent carrier recombination or thermal escape is possible. At the vicinity of a quantum well, we find that the (quasi) Fermi levels undergo an upward split by a small, but non-negligible, energy amount Δ E F in the order of 12 meV. We conclude this fact by comparing the photo-excited carriers trapped in a quantum well, under illumination, to the carrier concentrations under dark. Based on such a prediction, we subsequently relate thermionic current density dependence on Fermi level splitting, concluding that excess thermal currents may increase by a factor of the order of 2. We conclude that illumination causes (a) Fermi level separation and (b) an apparent increase in thermionic currents.
Air separation membranes : an alternative to EGR in large bore natural gas engines.

Air Separation Membranes (ASM) could potentially replace Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) technology in engines due to the proven benefits in NOx reduction but without the drawbacks of EGR. Previous investigations of Nitrogen Enriched Air (NEA) combustion using nitrogen bottles showed up to 70% NOx reduction with modest 2% nitrogen enrichment. The investigation in this paper was performed with an ASM capable of delivering at least 3.5% NEA to a single cylinder spark ignited natural gas engine. Low Temperature Combustion (LTC) is one of the pathways to meet the mandatory ultra low NOx emissions levels set by regulatory agencies. In this study, a comparative assessment is made between natural gas combustion in standard air and 2% NEA. Enrichment beyond this level degraded engine performance in terms of power density, Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE), and unburned hydrocarbon (UHC) emissions for a given equivalence ratio. The ignition timing was optimized to yield maximum brake torque for standard air and NEA. Subsequently, conventional spark ignition (SI) was replaced by laser ignition (LI) to extend lean ignition limit. Both ignition systems were studied under a wide operating range from ψ: 1.0 to the lean misfire limit. It was observed that with 2% NEA, for a similar fuel quantity, the equivalence ratio (Ψ) increases by 0.1 relative to standard air conditions. Analysis showed that lean burn operation along with NEA and alternative ignition source such as LI could pave the pathway for realizing lower NOx emissions with a slight penalty in BTE.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Afferent projections of the superior olivary complex.

Based on current literature, the afferents of the superior olivary complex (SOC) are described including those from the cochlear nucleus, inferior colliculus, thalamus, and auditory cortex. Intrinsic SOC afferents and non-auditory afferents from the serotoninergic and noradrenergic systems are also described. New data are provided that show a differential distribution of serotoninergic afferents within the SOC: serotoninergic fibers were relatively sparse in the lateral and medial superior olives and the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body and were most numerous in periolivary regions. There are variations in the density of serotoninergic fibers within periolivary regions themselves. New data is also provided on auditory and non-auditory afferents to SOC neurons, which have known targets. These include: cochlear nucleus afferents to periolivary (lateral nucleus of the trapezoid body, LNTB) cells that project to the inferior colliculus; cortical afferents to periolivary (ventral nucleus of the trapezoid body, VNTB) cells that project to the cochlear nucleus; and serotoninergic and noradrenergic afferents to periolivary (LNTB and VNTB) cells that project to the cochlear nucleus. The relationships between other types of afferents and SOC neurons with known projections are also described as functional circuits. The circuits include those that are part of the ascending auditory system (to the inferior and superior colliculi, lateral lemniscus, and medial geniculate nucleus), the descending auditory system (to the cochlea and cochlear nucleus), and the middle ear reflex circuits.
Nonresonant Background Suppression in Broadband Vibrational Sum-Frequency Generation Spectroscopy

Suppression of the nonresonant background in vibrational sum-frequency generation (SFG) in the broadband multiplex configuration is achieved using a time-asymmetric pulse, created by passing a femtosecond pulse through a Fabry−Perot etalon, to temporally discriminate between the faster nonresonant and slower resonant contributions. A mixed time and frequency domain explanation of the SFG process is presented, and spectra with high time resolutions and high degrees of nonresonant background suppression are obtained using self-assembled alkanethiolate monolayers on Au.
Long-Term Disease Control with Triapine-Based Radiochemotherapy for Patients with Stage IB2–IIIB Cervical Cancer

Background: National Cancer Institute phase I #7336 and phase II #8327 clinical trials explored the safety and efficacy of triapine (NSC #663249) added to cisplatin radiochemotherapy in untreated patients with advanced-stage cervical cancer. Triapine inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme responsible for DNA-building deoxyribonucleotides, and thereby, enhances radiochemosensitivity by prolonging DNA repair time. Here we report 3-year efficacy endpoints of pelvic locoregional relapse rate, disease-free and overall survivals. Methods: Eligible patients with bulky IB-IIIB cervical cancer underwent three-times weekly triapine (25 or 50 mg/m2), once-weekly cisplatin (40mg/m2), and conventional daily pelvic radiation followed by brachytherapy. A cumulative incidence method estimated pelvic locoregional relapse rates. Disease-free survival was measured from radiochemotherapy start date to the date of first relapse or cancer-related death. Overall survival was measured from radiochemotherapy start date to the date of any-cause death. The Kaplan-Meier method estimated survivals. Findings: Between 2006 and 2011, 24 untreated patients with cervical cancer met criteria for reporting in this study. A median 3.4 years of follow-up time (range, 0.3-7.6 years) has been observed. All had squamous cancers and the majority had either node-positive stage IB-IIA (33%) or stage IIIB (42%) disease. The 3-year pelvic locoregional relapse rate, disease-free survival, and overall survival were 4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0-20%), 80% (95% CI: 71-89%), and 82% (95% CI: 74%-90%), respectively. Interpretation: Triapine radiochemotherapy was safe, active, and effective in patients with untreated advanced-stage cervical cancer, worthy of randomized clinical trial study. Funding: National Institutes of Health grants U01 CA62502 and P30 CA43703-17
30-Day readmissions after coronary artery bypass graft surgery in New York State

Objectives The aim of this study was to identify reasons for and predictors of readmission. Background Short-term readmissions have been identified as an important cause of escalating health care costs, and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is 1 of the most expensive procedures. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 30-day readmissions for 33,936 New York State patients who underwent CABG surgery between January 1, 2005, and November 30, 2007. The main reasons for readmission (principal diagnoses) and the significant independent predictors of readmission were identified. The hospital-level relationship between risk-adjusted mortality rate and risk-adjusted readmission rate was explored to determine the value of readmission rate as a complementary measure of quality. Results The most common reasons for readmission were post-operative infection (16.9%), heart failure (12.8%), and “other complications of surgical and medical care” (9.8%). Increasing age, female sex, African-American race, higher body mass index, numerous comorbidities, 2 post-operative complications (renal failure and unplanned cardiac reoperation), Medicare or Medicaid status, discharges to a skilled nursing facility, saphenous vein grafts, and longer lengths of stay were all associated with higher rates of readmission. The correlation between the risk-adjusted 30-day readmission rate of hospitals and risk-adjusted in-hospital/30-day mortality rate was 0.32 (p = 0.047). The range across hospitals in the readmission rate was from 8.3% to 21.1%. Conclusions The 30-day readmission rate for CABG surgery remains high, despite decreases in short-term mortality. Patients with any of the numerous risk factors for readmission should be closely monitored. Hospital readmission rates are not highly correlated with mortality rates and might serve as an independent quality measure.
Distributed Flow Control and Medium Access in Multihop Ad Hoc Networks

Recent studies have shown that the performance of wireless multihop ad hoc networks is very poor. In this paper, we first demonstrate that one important reason of the poor performance is the close coupling between medium contention and network congestion. Therefore, we present a framework of distributed flow control and medium access control to address both medium contention and network congestion. The proposed scheme utilizes the MAC layer control frames to efficiently conduct the network layer's flow control function and only allows the upstream nodes to forward enough packets to make it possible for the downstream nodes to fully utilize the shared channel but never introduce severe MAC collisions and network congestion. Extensive simulations illustrate that the proposed scheme well controls congestion and greatly alleviates medium collisions. It achieves up to 12 times the end-to-end throughput of IEEE 802.11, maintains a short delay and a low control overhead, and improves the fairness regardless of the hop count and the traffic load
Sirens’ Call: Understanding Poor Financial Decision Making and Credit Card Misuse

Poor financial decision-making paradigms such as misuse of credit cards exist as ruinous forms of personal debt. Psychiatric and physical health problems arise from financial distress. Significant challenges exist for consumers to become financially solvent. Obstacles that exist in overcoming financial stressors can be explained by behavioral economic theories. These theories explain why consumers make unwise financial decisions. Research, practice implications, and a financial therapy model for improving financial decision-making skills are presented. The need for social work to ally with family economic scholars and policymakers around financial literacy and the development of effective financial therapy interventions is discussed.