cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Essentiality of “Culture” in the Study of Religion and Politics

This article reviews various theoretical approaches political scientists employ in the analysis of religion and politics and posits culture as a conceptual bridge between competing approaches. After coming to the study of religion slowly in comparison with other social science disciplines, political science finally has a theoretically diverse and thriving religion and politics subfield. However, political scientists’ contributions to the social scientific study of religion are hampered by a lack of agreement about whether endogenous or exogenous theoretical approaches ought to dominate our scholarship. I assert that the concept of culture—and more specifically, subculture—might help create more connections across theoretical research traditions. I emphasize how the concept of religion-based subculture is inherent in psychological, social psychological, social movement, and contextual approaches to religion and politics scholarship, and I explore these theoretical connections using the example of religion-based “us versus them” discourses in contemporary American politics.
Parents' Perceptions of Advocacy Activities and Their Impact on Family Quality of Life.

The concept of family quality of life has emerged as an important outcome of service provision for children with disabilities and their families. In this article, we report families' perceptions of...
Analytic technique to determine an infrared detector's acquisition range to a target against a sky background

The proliferation of infrared (IR) sensitive seekers in today's battlefield is a critical problem faced by airborne vehicles. A simple analytical target acquisition technique to determine the range at which an airborne vehicle may be susceptible to detection by an IR seeker sensor is presented. This approach can be applied to any IR sensor searching for various ground or air platforms. The detection range is determined through a series of basic radiometric calculations that take into account a target's radiance and the seeker's noise equivalent flux density (NEFD) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The calculations allow for background and path radiances determined from LOWTRAN 7 program outputs for night and day conditions and a sky background. A step-by- step sample calculation is provided to illustrate this approach.
Computational experience with the Chow—Yorke algorithm

The Chow—Yorke algorithm is a nonsimplicial homotopy type method for computing Brouwer fixed points that is globally convergent. It is efficient and accurate for fixed point problems. L.T. Watson, T.Y. Li, and C.Y. Wang have adapted the method for zero finding problems, the nonlinear complementarity problem, and nonlinear two-point boundary value problems. Here theoretical justification is given for applying the method to some mathematical programming problems, and computational results are presented.
Tunable Single Pixel MEMS Fabry-Perot Interferometer

Typically, MEMS Fabry Perot devices use electrostatic actuation to control mirror spacing and snap in is an issue. A thermally actuated device has been modeled in COMSOL that lifts the mirror through thermal expansion.
Nitric oxide-generating polymers reduce platelet adhesion and smooth muscle cell proliferation

We have developed polymeric biomaterials capable of providing localized and sustained production of nitric oxide (NO) for the prevention of thrombosis and restenosis. In the current study, we have characterized the kinetics of NO production by these materials and investigated their efficacy in reducing platelet adhesion and smooth muscle cell proliferation in vitro. Three nitric oxide donors with different half-lives were covalently incorporated into photopolymerized polyethylene glycol hydrogels. Under physiological conditions, NO was produced by these hydrogels over periods ranging from hours to months, depending upon the polymer formulation. NO production was inhibited at acidic pH, which may be useful for storage of the materials. The NO-releasing materials successfully inhibited smooth muscle cell growth in culture. Platelet adhesion to collagen-coated surfaces was also inhibited following exposure of whole blood to NO-producing hydrogels. The effects of NO production by these hydrogels on platelet adhesion and the proliferation of smooth muscle cells suggest that these materials could reduce thrombosis and restenosis following procedures such as balloon angioplasty.
Density and Distribution of Larval Fishes in Pentwater Marsh, a Coastal Wetland on Lake Michigan

In order to better understand the importance of a Great Lakes coastal marsh on fish production, the fish larvae of Pentwater Marsh, a drowned river-mouth wetland on Lake Michigan, were studied over a 3-yr period. Fish larvae were sampled at night by push nets in the channels and bayou-mouths and drop nets in the shallow, vegetated bayous of the marsh. Larval fish diversity and abundance were highest in 1984, perhaps due to more stable temperatures, higher water levels, and/ or increased submerged vegetational cover. In all years, carp (Cyprinus carpio) dominated the catch with marsh-wide densities of up to 30 larvae/m3. Subdominant species included sunfish (Lepomis spp.) and various minnows (Cyprinidae). Eighteen taxa were identified. Larval fish densities were 2 to 100 times higher in the shallow-water bayous than in the bayou-mouths and river channels. Larval fish densities were generally higher than documented for other wetland areas. However, previous studies may have underestimated densities since shallow-water sampling was not included and they were conducted during years of low water level. Coastal wetlands likely harbor greater numbers of young fishes than previously reported, emphasizing the importance of such areas to the ecology of the Great Lakes.
Radiologists' confidence in detecting abnormalities on chest images and their subjective judgments of image quality

The relationship between subjective judgments of image quality for the performance of specific detection tasks and radiologists' confidence level in arriving at correct diagnoses was investigated in two studies in which 12 readers, using a total of three different display environments, interpreted a series of 300 PA chest images. The modalities used were conventional films, laser-printed films, and high-resolution CRT display of digitized images. For the detection of interstitial disease, nodules, and pneumothoraces, there was no statistically significant correlation (Spearman rho) between subjective ratings of quality and radiologists' confidence in detecting these abnormalities. However, in each study, for all modalities and all readers but one, a small but statistically significant correlation was found between the radiologists' ability to correctly and confidently rule out interstitial disease and their subjective ratings of image quality.
Microstructure of Oligofluorene Asymmetric Derivatives in Organic Thin Film Transistors

In organic thin film transistors (OTFT), modifying the molecular chemical structure affects the molecular packing and thin film morphology, which both sensitively influence the charge carrier mobility. A detailed understanding of the interplay of molecular chemical structure, molecular packing, and thin film morphology is therefore necessary to improve OTFT performance. Fluorene-bithiophene-fluorene (FTTF) derivatives have demonstrated great potential for use as the active layer for OTFTs. A series of FTTF asymmetrically substituted derivatives were synthesized to fine-tune the film properties. In this study, the thin film microstructure details of FTTF and several FTTF derivatives with asymmetrically substituted alkyl-chains of different lengths are studied and compared with their electrical performance in thin film transistor devices. The respective unit cells were characterized using grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXD), and for FTTF the detailed molecular packing was determined from the GIXD int...
From the lost radium files: misadventures in the absence of training, regulation, and accountability.

Purpose Radium was the foundation of brachytherapy in the early decades of the 20th century. Despite being a most precious and perilous substance, it was mislaid with surprising frequency. This essay explores how it was lost, the efforts taken to recover it, and measures instituted to prevent mishandling. Methods and Materials Review of contemporary literature, government publications, archives, and lay press. Results Radium is a particularly dangerous substance because of its long half-life, its gaseous daughter (radon), and the high-energy emissions of its decay products. Despite the hazard, it was unregulated for most of the century. Any physician could obtain and administer it, and protocols for safe handling were generally lacking. Change came with appreciation of the danger, regulation, mandated training, and the institution of a culture of accountability. Unfortunately, careless management of medical radionuclides remains a global hazard. Conclusion Responsible stewardship of radioactive material was not a high priority, for practitioners or the federal government, for much of the 20 th century. As a result, large quantities of radium had gone astray, possibly subjecting the general public to continued radiation exposure. Lessons from the radium era remain relevant, as medical radionuclides are still mishandled.
A new, mouse-myeloma immunoglobulin a having specificity for β-D(1→6)-linked D-galactopyranosyl residues

Abstract The discovery of T601, a new mouse-myeloma immunoglobulin A having specificity for β- D -(1→6)-linked D -galactopyranosyl residues, brings the total number of known antigalactan immunoglobulins to seven. The interaction of T601 with a number of ligands has been investigated. For those ligands showing interaction with the immunoglobulin, the affinity constants have been quantitatively measured by tryptophanyl fluorescence. The values show that protein T601 behaves very similarly to protein X24.
Practice variability in brain death determination: a call to action.

Objective: To characterize the present state of brain death (BD) determination in actual practice relative to contemporary American Academy of Neurology (AAN) guidelines. Methods: We reviewed the charts of all adult (16 years and older) BD organ donors during 2011 from 68 heterogeneous hospitals in the Midwest United States. Data were collected across 5 categories: guideline performance, preclinical testing, clinical examination, apnea testing, and use of ancillary tests. Practice within categories and overall adherence to AAN guidelines were assessed. Results: Two hundred twenty-six BD organ donors were included. Practice exceeded recommendations in guideline performance but varied widely and deviated from AAN guidelines in all other categories. One hundred two (45.1%) had complete documentation of brainstem areflexia and absent motor response. One hundred sixty-six (73.5%) had completed apnea testing. Of the 60 without completed apnea testing, 56 (93.3%) had ancillary tests consistent with BD. Overall, 101 (44.7%) strictly and 84 (37.2%) loosely adhered to contemporary AAN guidelines. Conclusions: There is wide variability in the documentation of BD determination, likely reflecting similar variability in practice. This is a call for improved documentation, better uniformity of policies, and comprehensive and strategically targeted educational initiatives to ensure consistently contemporary approaches to BD determination in every patient.
Diverse Imageries of Gentrification: Evidence from Newspaper Coverage in Seven U.S. Cities, 1986–2006

ABSTRACT:This study indicates that newspaper coverage of gentrification is far more diverse than the gentrification literature predicts. Our analysis of 4,445 articles published between 1986 and 2006 in nine papers in seven U.S. cities with a population of one million or greater suggests that newspaper frames of gentrification range from those that are wholly supportive of gentrification to those that are strictly critical. Papers also regularly publish accounts of gentrification that reference both its perceived “costs” and “benefits.” We find that coverage changes over time and that newspaper frames vary in relation to depictions of place characteristics, gentrifiers, and long-timers. As a result, this paper addresses questions in the gentrification literature about the content and tone of representations of gentrification, speaks to urban studies scholarship on culture’s role in urban change processes, and reveals the mutability of the meaning and use of the term “gentrification.” Finally, it serves as...
Inception of plasticity in copper single crystal in presence of stacking fault tetrahedra

AbstractAtomistic simulations have been used to investigate the effect of a spatially distinct defect, i.e. stacking fault tetrahedron (SFT), on the inception of plastic deformation in a perfect copper single crystal during nanoindentation. An SFT positioned within a volume under significant stress from indentation lowers the stress required for dislocation nucleation by up to 50% from that of the perfect crystal when the nucleation event occurs at the SFT. The orientation of the SFT affects the required load for the initiation of plastic deformation and provides an envelope for the effect an SFT can have in weakening an otherwise perfect crystal. The weakening effect of the upward SFT vanishes faster than the downward SFT when it is lowered along the indentation axis. The load at the onset of plasticity changes with position, and the load drop after the inception of plastic deformation increases with SFT distance from the surface.
Evidence for DNA binding activity of numatrin (B23), a cell cycle-regulated nuclear matrix protein

Abstract Stimulation of various cell types with growth factors is associated with a rapid induction in the synthesis of a nuclear matrix protein, termed ‘numatrin’ which was shown to be identical to the nucleolar protein B23. The abundance of numatrin was shown to be correlated with entry and progression through the S-phase. Thus, experiments were undertaken to examine whether numatrin also has DNA binding activity. Using whole nuclear extract, we showed that numatrin binds to both double-stranded (DS) DNA and to single-stranded (SS) DNA cellulose columns. Purified numatrin, which was extracted either under native conditions (in oligomeric form) or under urea conditions (in monomeric form), demonstrated significant binding to either [ 3 H]DS-DNA or [ 3 H]DS-DNA as shown by nitrocellulose filter binding assay. However, numatrin binding to DS-DNA was qualitatively and quantitatively different from its binding to SS-DNA. Thus, the binding of numatrin was several fold higher to DS-DNA as compared to SS-DNA. The binding to DS-DNA was reduced by 77% in the presence of 0.5 M NaCl, while the binding to SS-DNA was not affected under this condition. Furthermore, treatment of the native numatrin under conditions which caused monomerization of the protein resulted in a significant enhancement of numatrin binding to SS-DNA but did not affect the binding to DS-DNA. Following heparin-Sepharose chromatography purification (under native conditions), numatrin at picomole amounts showed significant binding to both DS-DNA and SS-DNA. Finally, numatrin was found to copurify with the complex of DNA polymerase α primase together with other proteins required for SV-40 in vitro replication activity. These results demonstrate that numatrin has DNA binding activity, and imply a possible role for numatrin/B23 in DNA-associated processes.
The Bankrupt “Revolution”: Running Schools Like Businesses Fails the Test

The role of businesses in public schools in the United States has expanded during the era of standards-based reform. This article provides a critical analysis of (a) the argument fundamental to tha...
Epidermal growth factor module-containing mucin-like receptor 2 is a newly identified adhesion G protein-coupled receptor associated with poor overall survival and an invasive phenotype in glioblastoma.

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) module-containing mucin-like receptor 2 (EMR2) is a member of the seven span transmembrane (TM7) adhesion G-protein coupled receptor subclass. It is abundantly expressed in immune cells of myeloid origin and appears to mediate cellular adhesion, migration, and signaling. Based on an analysis showing earlier mortality among glioblastoma patients whose tumors highly express EMR2, we studied its expression patterns in glioblastoma and potential to mediate cellular proliferation and invasion. We performed univariate analysis of overall survival in GBM patients expressing low, moderate, and high amounts of EMR2 based on publicly available microarray data in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Using RT-PCR and western blotting, we studied mRNA and protein expression patterns of EMR2, respectively. We then employed siRNA knockdown of EMR2 in two human glioblastoma cell lines expressing high levels of EMR2 to assess functional effects on cellular proliferation and invasion, in vitro. Kaplan–Meier analysis of TCGA survival data for GBM demonstrated that EMR2 levels are inversely correlated with overall time until mortality (log rank, P < 0.01). EMR2 mRNA and protein is variably expressed in primary glioblastoma samples and human glioblastoma cell lines. When comparing cells transfected with siRNA targeting EMR2 to those transfected with a negative, scramble control, there was no difference in proliferation over 72 h in the SF767 and G55 glioblastoma cell lines. However, EMR2 knockout cells demonstrated an almost 3-fold reduction in migration compared to their negative controls (P < 0.05) in the SF767 cell line, and an almost 2-fold reduction (P < 0.05) in migration in the G55 cell line. We provide evidence that EMR2 is expressed in glioblastoma and has significant functional consequences on cellular invasion, but not proliferation. In light of its ability to promote adhesion and migration in immune cells, our data suggest that EMR2 may mediate similar phenomena in glioblastoma. The invasive phenotype conferred by EMR2 correlates with clinical data demonstrating poor survival in glioblastoma patients who express high levels of EMR2 in their tumor.
Amphisbaenian paleobiogeography: Evidence of vicariance and geodispersal patterns

Abstract Paleobiogeographic patterns within the Amphisbaenia were evaluated using the modified Brooks Parsimony Analysis (BPA) and recently published morphological and molecular phylogenies. Extant amphisbaenians are present in Africa, South America, North America, Europe, and the Middle East. The modified BPA was used to determine the relative effects of Pangean breakup, sea-level change, and climate change on evolutionary and distributional patterns within the Amphisbaenia. The modified BPA also tested the biogeographic effect of the Rhineuridae's phylogenetic position as either most basal in the morphologic phylogeny or most derived in the molecular phylogeny. The morphological and molecular analyses resulted in two different biogeographic hypotheses. The morphological analysis indicated three major biogeographic regions for the Amphisbaenia: 1) Africa, South America, and the Caribbean, 2) western Asia, and 3) North America. The molecular analysis indicated two major biogeographic regions: 1) Africa, western Asia, and North America, and 2) South America. The morphological biogeographic pattern corresponds with the known timing of the breakup of Pangea and the resulting paleogeographic reconstructions of the Mesozoic and Early Cenozoic. While the molecular pattern is similar to patterns recovered from dinosaurian biogeographic studies, the closer connection of Africa with North America rather than South America does not match well-constrained geologic evidence for the sequence of Pangean breakup. Both paleobiogeographic analyses, however, resulted in congruent patterns of speciation through vicariance and geodispersal. This suggests that in addition to the breakup of Pangea, such cyclical Earth history processes as sea-level and climate changes played an important role in the biogeographic patterns of the Amphisbaenia.
East spaces in West times: Deictic reference and political self-positioning in a post-socialist East German chronotope

Abstract In post-socialist eastern Berlin, past and present state-level institutions figure importantly in spatial and temporal deixis. Post-socialist redevelopment has led to the physical transformation or eradication of socialist-era state landmarks and workplaces, yet speakers continue to rely on past official (East) spaces to make reference in the present, a ‘now’ that some speakers consider to be ‘West-times’. In doing so, they often position themselves in latent disputes evaluating the kinds of spaces and times that fit to the categories ‘here’ and ‘now’. This article examines indexical means of constituting post-socialist subjectivity through instances of temporal and spatial deixis, focusing in particular on the usefulness of multivocality to political ends.
Code provisions for high strength concrete strength-temperature relationship at elevated temperatures

This paper presents results of experiments, conducted at NIST and elsewhere, to measure compressive strength of concrete at elevated temperature. The paper compares the test data with existing design rules and recommendations to assess their applicability to HSC. Based on the compiled data, the paper proposes new strength-temperature relationship for HSC and discusses the need for standardizing the test procedure for testing concrete at high temperature and for a revision of the current design guides to include new data for properties of concrete at high temperature.
Comparing the embolic potential of open and closed cell stents during carotid angioplasty and stenting

Objective We sought to determine the effects of open (O) and closed (C) cell stents on the size and number of embolic particles generated during carotid artery stenting (CAS) and assess the impact on outcome. Methods Embolic debris from carotid filters after CAS was analyzed using photomicroscopy and imaging software. Patient comorbidities, preoperative cerebrovascular symptoms, stent type, and outcomes (perioperative major adverse events) were examined. Results Carotid filters from 173 consecutive CAS procedures (O, 125 and C, 48) were reviewed. The mean age was 70.9 ± 9.2 years; 58% were men. Mean stenosis was 88.2% ± 8.1%; 36.6% had neurological symptoms preprocedurally. There was no difference in preoperative symptoms between the two groups (O, 38.7% vs C, 31.3%; P = not significant [NS]). However, closed cell stent use was associated with higher degree of stenosis (O, 87.2% ± 8.0% vs C, 90.6% ± 7.8%; P = .01), an older age (O, 70.0 ± 8.6 years vs C, 73.4 ± 10.2 years; P = .03), and peripheral arterial disease (21.1% vs 43.5%; P = .01). A larger mean particle size was observed in patients treated with open cell stents compared to closed cell stents (O, 416.5 ± 335.7 μm vs C, 301.1 ± 251.3 μm; P = .03). There was no significant difference in the total number of particles (O, 13.8 ± 21.5 vs C, 17.6 ± 19.9; P = NS), periprocedural stroke ( P = NS), and major adverse events between the two groups ( P = NS). Conclusions Open cell stents are associated with a larger mean particle size compared to closed cell stents. No impact on procedural outcomes based on stent type was observed.
Polymorphisms in GLTSCR1 and ERCC2 are associated with the development of oligodendrogliomas

BACKGROUND Deletions of 19q have been associated with gliomas, especially oligodendrogliomas. In addition, cases with oligodendrogliomas with the 19q deletion have been observed to have a better survival compared with cases without the 19q deletion. The authors have previously described a 150-kilobase minimal deletion region in gliomas that maps to 19q13.33 and contains 3 novel candidate genes (GLTSCR1, EHD2, and GLTSCR2). METHODS The authors performed an association study using 141 cases with gliomas (61 cases with astrocytomas, 40 cases with oligodendrogliomas, 40 cases with mixed oligoastrocytomas) and 108 general controls. They evaluated 7 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 6 genes within and nearby the minimal 19q deletion region (ERCC2, RAI, ASE-1, ERCC1, GLTSCR1, and LIG1). RESULTS The prevalence of a germline GLTSCR1-exon-1 T allele (SNP rs1035938) was 40% in cases with oligodendrogliomas compared with 27% in controls (P = 0.029), and the prevalence of an ERCC2-exon-22 T allele (SNP rs1052555) was 35% in cases with oligodendrogliomas compared with 18% in controls (P = 0.043). One high-risk and 1 low-risk haplotype were associated with oligodendroglioma development (P = 0.003 and 0.026, respectively). Cases with oligodendrogliomas with the 19q deletion had a significantly higher frequency of the GLTSCR1-exon-1 T allele compared with cases without the 19q deletion (P = 0.01). It was noteworthy that cases with gliomas who were homozygous for the GLTSCR1-exon-1 T allele had a significantly better survival: 77% and 68% survival at 2 and 5 years compared with 56% and 34% for other genotypes (P = 0.02, log-rank test). Multivariable analysis identified grade, age, and the GLTSCR1-exon-1 and ERCC2-exon-22 genotypes as independent predictors for survival. CONCLUSIONS These results suggested that alterations in GLTSCR1 (or a closely linked gene) were associated with the development and progression of oligodendroglioma. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Conformity of RNAs that interact with tetranucleotide loop binding proteins

A group of RNA binding proteins, termed tetraloop binding proteins, includes ribosomal protein S15 and protein SRP19 of signal recognition particle. They are primary RNA binding proteins, recognize RNA tetranucleotide loops with a GNAR consensus motif, and require a helical region located adjacent to the tetraloop. Closely related RNA structures that fit these criteria appear in helix 6 of SRP RNA, in helices 22 and 23A of 16 S ribosomal RNA, and, as a pseudoknot, in the regulatory region of the rpsO gene.
Imaging through optically opaque barriers with microwaves and millimeter waves

A rudimentary, inexpensive microwave and millimeter wave imaging system has been developed for imaging scenes viewed through optically opaque barriers. We have quantified the attenuation of microwave-band and millimeter-band radiation in materials commonly used in construction. We have also investigated, on a fundamental level, the imaging of the content of a briefcase using this simple scanner.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Contraction of swollen coil of flexible polymer chain below theta temperature

Abstract In our previous study on thermodynamic equilibrium at infinite dilution, chain segments at the periphery of a polymer coil were shown to be more extended than the average expansion of the coil. This is because such segments are in contact with pure solvent, whereas inside the coil there is a concentration of the segments. In a subsequent work examining the low concentration range, this excess extension of the segments was shown to diminish as the concentration was increased. Having more and more neighboring coils, the chain segments at the periphery of the coil have less and less excess extension, because the concentration difference between the inside and the outside of the coil decreases. In the present work the range below the theta temperature is examined; for polymers of finite molecular weights there are soluble ranges including partial and critical miscibility. When the limits of miscibility are approached either by lowering the temperature at a constant concentration or by increasing conc...
Tree-based server-middleman-client architecture: improving scalability and reliability for voting-based network games in ad hoc wireless networks

The concept of a new tree-based architecture for networked multi-player games was proposed by Matuszek to improve scalability in network traffic at the same time to improve reliability. The architecture (we refer it as "Tree-Based Server- Middlemen-Client architecture") will solve the two major problems in ad-hoc wireless networks: frequent link failures and significance in battery power consumption at wireless transceivers by using two new techniques, recursive aggregation of client messages and subscription-based propagation of game state. However, the performance of the TBSMC architecture has never been quantitatively studied. In this paper, the TB-SMC architecture is compared with the client-server architecture using simulation experiments. We developed an event driven simulator to evaluate the performance of the TB-SMC architecture. In the network traffic scalability experiments, the TB-SMC architecture resulted in less than 1/14 of the network traffic load for 200 end users. In the reliability experiments, the TB-SMC architecture improved the number of successfully delivered players' votes by 31.6, 19.0, and 12.4% from the clientserver architecture at high (failure probability of 90%), moderate (50%) and low (10%) failure probability.
Adiponectin is an independent predictor of all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality, and myocardial infarction in patients presenting with chest pain

Aims To determine the prognostic value of baseline plasma adiponectin levels in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease referred for coronary angiography. Methods and results Adiponectin was measured in 325 male patients with stable angina, troponin-negative unstable angina, and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (MI) undergoing coronary angiography at a Veterans Administration Medical Center. The patients were then followed prospectively for the occurrence of all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality, and MI. Follow-up data at 24 months were available for 97% of the patients. Adiponectin was the only biomarker to independently predict the individual endpoints of all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality, and MI. The 24-month survival rates for patients in the lower (≤4.431 mg/L), middle (>4.431 and ≤8.008 mg/L), and upper (>8.008 mg/L) tertiles of plasma adiponectin values were 95.0, 90.4, and 83.5%, respectively ( P = 0.0232 by log-rank test). Furthermore, when patients with chest pain were risk-stratified into those with and without a non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS), adiponectin remained an independent predictor of both all-cause mortality and cardiac mortality in the NSTEACS subgroup. Conclusion In a cohort of male patients undergoing coronary angiography, a single baseline determination of plasma adiponectin is independently predictive of the subsequent risk of death and MI.
A mathematical model for resolution enhancement in layered sensory systems

Heiligenberg (1987) recently proposed a model to explain how the representation of a stimulus variable through an ordered array of broadly tuned receptors could allow a degree of stimulus resolution greatly exceeding the resolution of the individual receptors which make up the array. In his model, this "hyperacuity" is achieved by connecting the receptors to a higher level pool interneuron according to a linear synaptic weighting function. We have extended this model to the general case of arbitrary polynomial synaptic weighting functions, and showed that the response function of this higher level interneuron is a polynomial of the same order as the weighting function. We also proved that Hermite polynomials are eigen-functions of the system. Further, by allowing multiple interneurons in the higher level pool, each of which is connected to the receptors according to a different orthogonal weighting function, we demonstrated that extended stimulus functions can be represented with enhanced precision, rather than just the value of individual point stimuli. Finally, we suggest a solution to the problem of "edge effect" errors arising near the ends of finite receptor arrays.
Influence of Planting Date on Canola and Crambe Production

Crop production in the upper Midwest, which has a short growing season, can be greatly affected by planting date. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of planting date on canola (Brassica napus L. and B. campestris L.) and crambe (Crambe abyssinicia Hochst) seed yield, yield components, and plant growth characteristics. Three cultivars of canola, two B. napus and one B. campestris, and one cultivar of crambe were evaluated at four planting dates during 1989 and 1990 in North Dakota. Canola seed yield was the highest at the first two plantings, early May and mid-May, and reduced at the two later plantings, late May and mid-June. Reduced yield at later plantings was attributed to fewer pods per plant and a lower harvest index. The later maturing B. napus cultivars produced greater yield than the B. campestris cultivar in environments where growing conditions were near normal. Crambe seed yield also was greatest when planted in early and mid-May with reductions occurring at the later plantings of late May and mid-June. Crambe appears less susceptible to heat and moisture stress and higher yielding than canola when grown in North Dakota.
Nystagmus induced by electrical stimulation of the vestibular and prepositus hypoglossi nuclei in the monkey: evidence for site of induction of velocity storage

Electrical stimulation of the vestibular nuclei (VN) and prepositus hypoglossi nuclei (PPH) of alert cynomolgus monkeys evoked nystagmus and eye deviation while they were in darkness. At some sites in VN, nystagmus and after-nystagmus were induced with characteristics suggesting that velocity storage had been excited. We analyzed these responses and compared them to the slow component of optokinetic nystagmus (OKN) and to optokinetic after-nystagmus (OKAN). We then recorded unit activity in VN and determined which types of nystagmus would be evoked from the sites of recording. Nystagmus and eye deviations were also elicited by electrical stimulation of PPH, and we characterized the responses where unit activity was recorded in PPH. Horizontal slow phase velocity of the VN "storage" responses was contralateral to the side of stimulation. The rising time constants and peak steady-state velocities were similar to those of OKN, and the falling time constants of the after-nystagmus and of OKAN were approximately equal. Both the induced after-nystagmus and OKAN were habituated by stimulation of the VN. When horizontal after-nystagmus was evoked with animals on their sides, it developed yaw and pitch components that tended to shift the vector of the slow phase velocity toward the spatial vertical. Similar "cross-coupling" occurs for horizontal OKAN or for vestibular post-rotatory nystagmus elicited in tilted positions. Thus, the storage component of nystagmus induced by VN stimulation had the same characteristics as the slow component of OKN and the VOR. Positive stimulus sites for inducing nystagmus with typical storage components were located in rostral portions of VN. They lay in caudal ventral superior vestibular nucleus (SVN), dorsal portions of central medial vestibular nucleus (MVN) caudal to the abducens nuclei and in adjacent lateral vestibular nucleus (LVN). More complex stimulus responses, but with contralateral after-nystagmus, were induced from surrounding regions of ventral MVN and LVN, rostral descending vestibular nucleus and the marginal zone between MVN and PPH. Vestibular-only (VO), vestibular plus saccade (VPS) and tonic vestibular pause (TVP) units were identified by extracellular recording. Stimulation near type I lateral and vertical canal-related VO units elicited typical "storage" responses with after-nystagmus in 23 of 29 tracks (79%). Stimulus responses were more complex from the region of neurons with oculomotor-related signals, i.e., TVP or VPS cells, although after-nystagmus was also elicited from these sites. Effects of vestibular nerve and nucleus stimulation were compared.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS).
Rural organizations and adaptation to climate change and variability in rural Kenya

Numerous studies have shown that collective action affects the type and efficiency of short- and long-term adaptation to climate change. This empirical study contributes to the body of the literature on collective action and adaptive capacity by demonstrating how organizations frame responses to climate variability and change in rural Kenya by promoting local rural institutions. By analyzing interviews, role-playing games, and household surveys, we ask how local rural organizations shape coping strategies to climate variability and how they may structure future adaptations to climate change. We also investigate what types of households participate in those organizations and how their participation may impact their vulnerability to climate change and variability. Our analysis shows that in places rendered especially vulnerable to climate change by arid climatic conditions, the disengagement of governmental services, and a limited access to income-generating activities, local rural organizations increase livelihood security. Those organizations reduce local vulnerabilities and enhance collective action. In contrast to common diversification and livelihood security strategies which rely on the access to urban or peri-urban structures, local rural institutions and organizations allow for rural and grassroots sustainable adaptation strategies. In that respect, they constitute a resilient and mostly untapped resource for visibly strengthening livelihood security and adaptive capacities in rural Kenya.
Assessing the Effectiveness of a Training Program for the University Teaching Assistants

(1977). Assessing the Effectiveness of a Training Program for the University Teaching Assistants. Teaching of Psychology: Vol. 4, No. 3, pp. 135-138.
Uniconazole controls growth and yield of greenhouse tomato

Abstract Tomato ( Lycopersicon esculentum cultivar ‘Summer Flavor’) seedlings received a single uniconazole soil drench at 0, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 200 or 400 μg per plant at the five-leaf stage. After 2 weeks of growth, plant height, length and area of the fifth leaf, and plant fresh and dry weights progressively decreased with increasing rates of uniconazole. The rate of leaf production was unaffected at low rates of the retardant. Another group of seedlings received soil drenches at the above rates at the onset of flowering. Uniconazole applied at both stages resulted in short final plant height at all rates. Total fruit yield was reduced by uniconazole at the 12.5 μg per plant rate, with further reduction as rates increased. Yields of large fruits (≥ 110 g) increased at the two lower rates of uniconazole. The incidence of blossom-end rot (BER) was nearly eliminated by this retardant at all rates. Foliar application of uniconazole at the flowering stage with rates of 0, 25, 50, 100, 250, 500, 750 or 1000 μg per plant had less control on plant height compared with their respective rates as a soil drench. Total fruit yield was not affected until the rate exceeded 100 μg per plant. The incidence of BER decreased sharply with increasing rates of uniconazole. The number and weight of fruits ≥ 110 g were doubled at rates between 25 and 250 μg per plant. Plant fresh and dry weights were lower as a result of uniconazole foliar spray. Fruit number was reduced regardless of the rate and stage of uniconazole application.
Novel Thermal-Swing Sorption-Enhanced Reaction Process Concept for Hydrogen Production by Low-Temperature Steam−Methane Reforming

Hydrogen production by steam reforming of natural gas is a well-established technology. The possibility of using hydrogen, a nonpolluting fuel, in fuel cells has brought new interest in developing small, efficient, fuel-cell grade hydrogen production units for residential or industrial use. A novel, step-out, low-temperature, steam−methane reforming (SMR) process concept called “thermal-swing sorption-enhanced reaction” (TSSER) is described. The concept simultaneously carries out the SMR reactions at 490−590 °C and removes the byproduct CO2 from the reaction zone in a single unit operation, thereby (a) circumventing the thermodynamic limitations of the SMR reactions and (b) directly producing a fuel-cell grade H2 product with very high CH4-to-H2 conversion. A K2CO3 promoted hydrotalcite is used as the CO2 selective chemisorbent in the reactor, which is periodically regenerated by steam purge at 590 °C. Model simulations of the TSSER process using recently measured CO2 chemisorption characteristics of the ...
Management of Continence Problems Following Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy

Functional disturbances after lateral internal sphincterotomy are real and probably underreported. However, the overwhelming majority are relatively minor, often reversible and rarely impact quality of life in a measurable way. The etiology of postsphincterotomy in continence is probably multifactorial. The results of surgical repair have been disappointing and cannot be recommended. Emerging alternatives such as silicone injection may prove beneficial.
Abstract 860: In vitro and in vivo studies of a novel, functionalized, completely human serine protease targeting Her2/neu. Activity against Herceptin- and multi-drug resistant tumor cells .

A number of recombinant fusion constructs and drug conjugates demonstrate excellent efficacy in preclinical studies but the long-term clinical applicability of these agents may be limited by tolerability issues and the emergence of multi-drug resistance. To address these issues, we employed the human serine protease granzyme B (GrB) as a cytotoxic effector and the humanized scFv designated 4D5 targeting the Her2/neu extracellular domain. A human fusion construct designated GrB/4D5/26 containing the fusogenic peptide 26 was constructed. The GrB/4D5/26 fusion construct showed specific and rapid cellular uptake into Her2/neu positive but not Her2/neu negative cells. We demonstrated efficient, specific delivery of GrB to the cytosol of Her2/neu positive cells. Against a panel of Her2/neu-positive tumor cells, IC 50 values of the fusion construct ranged from 10∼100 nM, compared to that of GrB which was in the μM range. Treatment with GrB/4D5/26 resulted in specific cell killing accompanied by activation of caspases, PARP cleavage and cytochrome C release from mitochondria. In contrast to studies from other groups, the cytotoxic effects of the GrB/4D5/26 fusion construct did not require the assistance of the endosomolytic reagent chloroquine. Treatment with GrB/4D5/26 also caused efficient downregulation of the PI3K/Akt and Ras/ERK signaling pathways. Tumor cell lines highly resistant to Lapatinib, Herceptin or chemotherapeutic agents were not cross-resistant to the GrB-based fusion protein. Consecutive intravenous injections of GrB/4D5/26 into nude mice bearing BT474 M1 tumors resulted in significant, long-term tumor growth suppression. Twenty-four hours after i.v. administration, excised tumors displayed an increase in GrB/4D5/26 concentration and apoptotic nuclei compared to saline controls. These studies demonstrate the impressive in vitro and in vivo activity of the the completely human Her2/neu targeted construct and suggest its further evaluation for clinical use. Research conducted, in part, by the Clayton Foundation for Research. Citation Format: Yu Cao, Khalid A. Mohamedali, John W. Marks, Lawrence H. Cheung, Walter N. Hittelman, Michael G. Rosenblum. In vitro and in vivo studies of a novel, functionalized, completely human serine protease targeting Her2/neu. Activity against Herceptin- and multi-drug resistant tumor cells . [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 860. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-860
Activity and distribution of acid phosphatase in zinc‐deficient parakeratotic rat buccal epithelium

— Weanling rats were fed a diet containing 1.3 mg zinc/kg diet and controls the same diet supplemented by 40 mg zinc/kg diet. After 28 d on this dietary regime, the buccal epithelium of experimental animals showed increased thickness and parakeratosis. The activity and distribution of acid phosphatase were studied in buccal epithelium employing α-naphthol phosphate as substrate for quantitative and slide histochemical techniques. The ultramicro assays showed that acid phosphatase activity increased by about 70% each in cellular and keratin layers of experimental animals. The sections showed that beginning in the lower spinous cells of experimental animals, reaction product was greatly increased at the cell periphery, but greatly decreased in the cell interior. It is suggested that increased enzyme activity reflects the hypertrophic response in the buccal epithelium of zinc-deficient animals. Peripheral displacement of reaction product is unexplained, but diminished activity in the cell interior could account for parakeratosis and the persistence of cytoplasmic organelles in the keratin layer.
Identification of Native Flavin Adducts from Fusarium oxysporum Using Accurate Mass Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry

Accurate mass matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry is used to determine the identity of a naturally occurring substituted flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) of nitroalkane oxidase isolated from Fusarium oxysporum. Accurate mass measurements (1−2 ppm) combined with an elemental composition search identifies the unknown FAD substituent as nitrobutane. The use of internal and external calibration in accurate mass MALDI-TOF is discussed.
The triplet states of the M center

Abstract Results of calculations of the electronic structure of the triplet states of the M center in LiF and LiCl are given. The results indicate that the triplet and singlet ground states lie close together. Decay modes of the triplet state are discussed.
Distribution and species diversity of deep-sea nematodes in the Venezuela Basin

Abstract In three sedimentary regions in the deep (>3400 m) Venezuela Basin, nematode abundance and dry weight biomass (ean ±1 S.E.) were higher in hemipelagic sediments (94 ± 1.5 individuals, 88 ± 2.5 μg per 10 cm−2) than in pelagic (67 ± 3 individuals, 32 ±33 μg per 10 cm−2) or turbidite (36 ± 3 individuals, 30 ± 3 μg per 10 cm−2) sediments. Abundance of nematodes appears to be at least partially related to geographic position within the basin; hemipelagic sediments lie closer to an area of elevated surface production near the Lesser Antilles than do the pelagic or turbidite sediments. Abundance of nematodes is also directly correlated with macrofauna abundance and presence of sedimentary lipids. Normal hierarchical classification indicates the presence of two faunal groups in the sediments: a ‘sand’ fauna in coarser pelagic sediments (median grain size, 65 μm) and a ‘silt-clay’ fauna in the finer hemipelagic and turbidite sediments (median grain size in both, 0.65 μm). Animals among the two faunal groups differ mostly in their feeding morphology: selective deposit feeding species, unable to utilize large, pelagically derived particles (mainly foraminiferan tests) are more abundant in finer hemipelagic and turbidite sediments, whereas species capable of rasping food particles off large sedimentary particles (epistrate feeders) are more abundant in pelagic sands than in finer sediments. Species diversity is higher in the hemipelagic than turbidite and pelagic sediments. Two reasons postulated for this are (1) the possible input of relatively fresh, surface-derived organic matter that might permit a large number of species to exist in hemipelagic sediments than in the other two, and (2) an optimally heterogeneous grain size distribution that might allow the species to coexist equitably. All three sediments support more diverse nematode assemblages than those in the North Carolina slope region, probably reflecting the greater physical stability of the abyssal than bathyal sea floor.