cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Private Nuisance Law: A Window on Substantive Justice

More than any other tort action, the private nuisance action reveals the proper nature and full scope of tort law as an implementation of the classical principles of justice and their underlying moral norm of equal freedom. The private wrong addressed by the private nuisance action is one of the few wrongs that it is feasible to prevent ex ante, and which often is prevented ex ante through the granting of an injunction, rather than being merely remedied ex post through monetary damages. As such, the private nuisance action clearly demonstrates the error of those, including many efficiency theorists, who describe tort law as merely setting prices, in the form of damages, for permitted invasions of others’ interests, rather than, correctly, as the area of law that most fully addresses, articulates, and implements the basic principles of justice and right. The equal freedom norm that underlies, connects, and co-ordinates these basic principles can be seen most clearly through an examination of the requirements for a successful private nuisance action. The nature of and relationship between the principles is illustrated most clearly through an examination of the remedies that are available for a successful nuisance action. The criteria for granting an injunction rather than limiting the plaintiff to a remedy in damages draw on the principle of distributive justice as well as the principle of interactive (‘corrective’) justice, in an integrated manner that some justice theorists have erroneously declared cannot coherently be done. Elaboration of these claims requires a substantial amount of preliminary ground clearing, since there is widespread confusion and misunderstanding regarding the principles of justice - especially the principle of interactive justice - and the nature and proper scope of the private nuisance action. In part II, I attempt to clear up the confusions and misunderstandings regarding the principles of justice. In part III, I attempt to clarify the nature and proper scope of the private nuisance action as a distinct (intentional) tort, which is explicitly grounded on the equal freedom norm. Finally, in part IV, I affirm the status of the private nuisance action as a strict liability tort by clarifying the criteria for the granting of an injunction, and I explain and justify those criteria as a co-ordinated implementation of the principles of distributive and interactive justice.
Morphology-dependent photophysics in conjugated polymers

Summary form only given. We present evidence that the degree of inter-chain interactions and morphology in conjugated polymer films can be controlled by altering the chain conformation in the solution from which the film is cast. Light scattering experiments show that physical size of poly[2-methoxy-5-(2'-ethyl-hexyloxy)-1,4-phenylene vinylene] (MEH-PPV) chains can vary by a factor of two in different solvents such as chlorobenzene or tetrahydrofuran. Photoluminescence and wavelength-dependent excitation indicate that MEH-PPV forms aggregate species with an absorption and luminescence spectra that are distinctly red-shifted from the intrachain exciton. The degree of aggregation is both concentration and solvent dependent. The overall photoluminescence quantum yield is found to depend on both how restricted the polymer conformation is due to choice of solvent and polymer concentration due to aggregation. The excited state aggregates have a longer lifetime than their intrachain exciton counterparts, as evidenced by a near-infrared transient absorption in femtosecond pump-probe and anisotropy measurements. Memory of the chain conformation and extent of aggregation of MEH-PPV in solution is carried into cast films. Thus, many conflicting results presented on the degree of interchain interactions can be explained by noting that the film samples in different studies were cast from precursor solutions with different solvents and concentrations.
The preparation of a modified GTP-sepharose derivative and its use in the purification of dihydroneopterin triphosphate synthetase, the first enzyme in folate biosynthesis.

Abstract The conditions for coupling periodate oxidized GTP to a hydrazide Sepharose derivative are described. Approximately 1 μmole of the ligand was bound per milliliter of settled gel. Gel columns prepared from this material bind D- erythrod ihydroneopterin triphosphate synthetase, the initial enzyme for folate biosynthesis in Lactobacillus plantarum . A yield of 28% and an overall enzyme purification of 765 fold were attained when the affinity technique was used with a conventional purification procedure.
Pleistocene glaciations in Chukotka, Russia:: moraine mapping using satellite synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery

Abstract Using satellite synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery we are able to identify many glacial features on the Russian landscape that were previously unobservable by scientists outside Russian institutes. Observations from SAR imagery provide information on glacial extent, moraine morphology, and non-sedimentary glacial features such as valley morphology and flow direction. Moraine sequences in several areas of Chukotka record multiple Pleistocene glacial events. Moraine position, along with several morphologic characteristics such as relative degradation and surface slope, can be determined from SAR imagery and used to estimate relative age of glacial features. By conducting comparative studies on moraines of known age in Alaska, we are able to estimate the ages of moraines in Russia and develop a framework for the correlation of glacial history across Bering Strait. Our study of these images suggests that the last major glaciation (Late Wisconsin) was much less extensive than older Pleistocene events, whose marks remain on the landscape beyond the younger moraines.
Maximum Energy-Efficiency Compliant Mechanism Design for Piezoelectric Stack Actuators

Combined optimization of a compliant mechanism and a piezoelectric stack actuator for maximum energy conversion efficiency is considered. The paper presents a system level analysis in which the actuator and the compliant mechanism are mathematically described as linear two-port systems. The combination of stack and compliant mechanism is used to drive a structure, modeled as a mass-spring system. The analysis assumes all components to be free from dissipation, and the piezoelectric stack is driven by an ideal voltage source. Energy conversion efficiency is defined as the ratio of the output mechanical energy to the input electric energy. Theoretical bounds on the system efficiency are obtained. It is shown that the stack actuator can be optimized separately and matched to the specified structure and an optimally designed complaint mechanism. The optimization problem for the compliant mechanism is formulated to maximize a weighted objective function of energy efficiency and stroke amplification. Optimization results are presented for ground structures modeled using frame elements.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Distinct Effects of N-Acetylcysteine and Nitric Oxide on Angiotensin II-induced Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Phosphorylation and Intracellular Ca2+ Levels

These studies describe inhibitory effects ofN-acetylcysteine on several biochemical events associated with the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) by angiotensin II in the cardiac fibroblast and compare these effects with those of the nitric oxide donor,S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine, an agent we showed previously to inhibit angiotensin II-induced ERK activation and the concomitant phosphorylation of proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Wang, D., Yu, X., and Brecher, P. (1999) J. Biol. Chem. 274, 24342–24348). The transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor by angiotensin II, a process required for the activation of ERK, was inhibited by N-acetylcysteine but not by nitric oxide. The transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor by angiotensin II was shown to be independent of intracellular calcium increases. Nitric oxide, but not N-acetylcysteine, inhibited the angiotensin II-induced increase in intracellular Ca2+. Neither nitric oxide nor N-acetylcysteine inhibited either phospholipase C activation or inositol triphosphate generation in response to angiotensin II. N-Acetylcysteine did inhibit the phosphorylation of the calcium sensitive tyrosine kinases PYK2 and Src, effects that also occurred using nitric oxide. These studies describe a novel effect of N-acetylcysteine on cross-talk between a G protein-linked receptor and a tyrosine kinase receptor and offer additional molecular insight to explain howN-acetylcysteine and nitric oxide act at different sites and might have an additive effect on specific hormonal responses.
Seasonal and Interannual Variation in the Hydrography of the Cariaco Basin: Implications for Basin Ventilation

The hydrography of the Cariaco Basin (temperature, salinity, density, dissolved oxygen concentration) was studied using monthly observations collected between November 1995 and August 1998 at the CArbon Retention In A Colored Ocean (CARIACO) time-series station (10.51N, 64.661W). Satellite scatterometer wind estimates showed that changes in the wind preceded changes in hydrography by 1–2 weeks. Upward migration of isopleths within the upper 150 m was observed between November and May each year, when the Trade Wind was more intense. A seasonal deepening of the isopleths was observed when winds relaxed. A secondary upwelling event was observed every year between July and August, in response to an intensification of the southward component of the Trade Wind. Interannual variation in the upwelling cycle was driven in part by variations in wind intensity and in part by other events at time scales of 1–3 months. The latter were associated with 90–140 m deep intrusions of Caribbean Sea water that forced waters above them to the surface. Satellite-derived sea surface height anomaly maps demonstrated that these events were related to cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies moving along the continental shelf. Waters deeper than 1200 m showed small temperature and salinity increases of 0.00751 Cy r � 1 and 0.0016 yr � 1 , consistent with previous estimates.
Dynamic rheology of structural development in starch/decolourised hsian-tsao leaf gum composite systems

The gelling process of decolourised hsian-tsao leaf gum (dHG)/starch mixtures was monitored as a function of starch/gum ratio and starch type using a dynamic rheometer. It was found that the gelling process followed first-order kinetics. At starch/gum ratios of 5:1, 4:2 and 3:3, dHG interacted with starch synergistically, resulting in a marked increase in storage modulus (G′). Both the gelling reaction rate constant and plateau G′ value as a function of starch/dHG ratio showed a maximum at a certain starch/gum ratio. These results indicated that a suitable starch/dHG ratio could facilitate the formation of a three-dimensional network structure and the conversion of chains in the sol fraction into a gel. The maximum G′ value reached depended on the unique chemistry of each starch. Mixed systems with tapioca starch generally showed lower plateau G′ values than mixed systems with wheat or corn starch, possibly owing to the lower amylose content of tapioca starch. © 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Conservation biology defined

A Primer of Conservation Biology By Richard B. Primack Sinauer: 1995. Pp. 277. £14.95 (pbk). Principles of Conservation Biology By Gary K. Meffe and C. Ronald Carroll Sinauer: 1995. Pp. 600. £29.95. Conservation Biology in Theory and Practice By Graeme Caughley and Anne Gunn Blackwell Science: 1995. Pp. 459. £32.50, $45.95 (pbk). Encyclopedia of Environmental Biology Edited by William A. Nierenberg W. A. Academic: 1995. Pp. 2,114 (3 volumes). $475, £295.
Reducing bias in the measurement of selection

Selection on quantitative characters is commonly mesured in natural populations using regression techniques based on phenotypic covariances between traits and fitness. However, such methods do not give an accutate view of the causal relationship between the phenotype and fitness if enviornmental factors also contribute to covariances between traits and fitness. A recently developed method for estimating selection eliminates the problem of bias resulting from enviormental covariances. This underappreciated method represents a significant addition to the toolbox of evolutionary ecologist.
Effect of Mg, Ca, and Zn on stability of LiBH4 through computational thermodynamics

Abstract The effect of divalent metal-dopants, Mg, Ca, and Zn, on the stability of LiBH4 is studied by using the first-principles calculations and CALPHAD (CALculation of PHAse Diagram) modeling. The ground states of Mg1/2BH4, Ca1/2BH4, and Zn1/2BH4 are shown to be I 4 ¯ m 2 , F2dd, and I 4 ¯ m 2 , respectively, through first-principles calculations. Positive enthalpy of mixing between Li and the alloying element is predicted, indicating unfavorable solubility of alloying elements in LiBH4 and thus offering possibility to decrease the stability of LiBH4. The ionic sublattice model of (Li+, M2+, Va)1(BH4−)1 is adopted for the metal substituted LiBH4 phase. It is observed that the addition of Mg or Zn has limited effect as the decomposition temperature is between those of LiBH4 and M1/2BH4 for Mg and Zn substitutions. LiBH4 is destabilized with magnesium borides or LiZn4 formation but its decomposition temperature is higher than that of M1/2BH4. On the other hand, the addition of Ca significantly reduces the H2 releasing temperature due to the formation of highly stable CaB6.
Case Report: Fungal Peritonitis Caused by Curvularia Lunata in a Patient Undergoing Peritoneal Dialysis

ABSTRACT The authors present a case of a patient undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) who developed peritonitis with Curvularia lunata and gram negative Enterobacteriaceae . A review of the literature indicates that human infections caused by Curvularia are uncommon despite the ubiquity of the organism in the environment. In this case, the organism was present in the Tenckhoif catheter, lacking attachment to it, but obstructing the flow. Treatment of fungal peritonitis during CAPD is discussed.
A chloroplast membrane conformational change activated by electron transport between the region of photosystem II and plastoquinone

Various partial redox reactions involved in photosynthetic electron transport were studied in relation to the electron transport dependent incorporation of the water soluble chemical modifier, diazonium benzene sulfonic acid (DABS)* into chloroplast membranes. This electron transport dependent diazonium incorporation reflects a conformational change (unspecified at this time) in membrane components. The redox reaction(s) responsible for this conformational change was shown to be localized after the site of DCMU inhibition but before plastoquinone by the following evidence: 1. Electron transport from water to lipophilic “Class III” electron acceptors such as dimethyl benzoquinone and high concentrations of dibromothymoquinone potentiate the extra DABS binding to the membranes. These compounds are reduced prior to or at the plastoquinone site. 2. Electron transfer from water to silicomolybdate plus ferricyanide, a DCMU insensitive reaction, does not result in the incremental diazonium binding. 3. Photosystem I cyclic electron flow mediated by menadione (anaerobic), which requires participation of plastoquinone does not give the extra diazonium binding.
Predicting the cumulative effect of multiple query formulations

Multiple query formulations (MQF) have been extensively explored and when used, provide considerable improvements in quality of information retrieval on the Web. However, the question of how to formulate a variety of distinctive queries and how many queries are needed in each unique case remains essentially unanswered. In this research we present a process for selecting search terms and formulating multiple short queries from the original long query. We introduce a scaled cumulative query weight (t) function which is based exclusively on the submitted long query. We demonstrate that this function can serve as a predictive variable for the effectiveness of various multiple query formulation methods and can be used algorithmically to determine the operational parameters for a multiple query formulation process.
Characterization of the Lectin-Like Domain of Thrombomodulin and its Interactions with Complement Component C3

Protein-protein interactions are extremely important interactions in the body responsible for many necessary functions. This study aims to specifically look at the interactions between the lectin-like domain of thrombomodulin (TM) and complement components C3 and C3b. TM is best known as a regulator of blood clotting, but its lectin-like domain is not necessary for this function and has recently been implicated in interfering with activation of the complement system. C3 is part of the innate immune response, is activated to C3b by any of three pathways, and is then responsible for continuation of the complement cascade to result in attack of foreign cells. Misregulation of this immune response can lead to attack of host cells and result in inflammatory diseases. Learning more about interactions between TM and C3/C3b may provide valuable knowledge of a link between coagulation and inflammation. To understand the relationship, each protein first needs to be studied individually. The lectin-like domain of TM has been expressed in and purified from the yeast, Pichia pastoris. Complement component C3 has been isolated from plasma, purified and activated to C3b. Analysis by SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry verified that the desired proteins were isolated. A pull-down assay was used to confirm the interaction between the two proteins. The hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange of the individual proteins will be analyzed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MS). The interactions between TM and C3/C3b will then also be investigated by H/D exchange and MS.
An engineered tactile afferent modulation platform to elicit compound sensory nerve action potentials in response to force magnitude

In the near future, upper limb prostheses may interface with peripheral nerves of amputees to help restore vital somatosensory feedback. Achieving that goal requires the transformation of forces artificially sensed in our environment into the depolarization of afferents, by delivering levels of charge adequate for signaling tactile sensory cues yet avoiding tissue damage. The objective of the work herein was to build and test a tactile afferent modulation platform engineered to transform force data input, from an artificial sensor under ramp-and-hold stimuli, into the output of discrete charge-balanced pulses to the rat's acute sural nerve thereby eliciting compound sensory neural action potentials (CSNAPs). In vivo experiments, to stimulate both tactile end organs mechanically and sural nerves electrically, helped fit the model's empirical parameters. Input-output relationships were validated by comparing CSNAPs elicited by the tactile afferent modulation platform with those of natural end organs. The results replicated the natural response where increased force magnitude increased both CSNAP firing rates and waveform amplitudes. Next steps will involve the integration of the engineered platform with a regenerative peripheral nerve interface for the evaluation of its long-term reliability.
Intensity dependence of cation kinetic energies from 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid near the infrared matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization threshold

The mechanisms responsible for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) are far from being well understood, particularly where infrared laser irradiation is used to initiate the process. We measured the emission yields and kinetic energy distributions of positive ions emitted from 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid loaded with angiotensin II in a standard MALDI preparation during irradiation with an infrared free-electron laser tuned to 2.94 microm. As the laser intensity is scanned through the MALDI threshold, we see a marked change in the energy distributions of the matrix ion. Above threshold, the energy distributions of both analyte and matrix cations are constant over a broad range of laser intensities. This behavior does not appear to be consistent with any extant model of the MALDI mechanism.
An experimental study of organized motions in the turbulent plane mixing layer

Recent investigations suggest that turbulent shear flows are generally characterized by large-scale coherent structures. Little is currently known regarding the detailed characteristics and dynamical roles of these structures. The present study has been motivated by a number of questions which arise in connection with such structures, taking into account the education procedure, the topological characteristics, and the mechanics of the large-scale structures in a high-Reynolds-number plane mixing layer, originating from an initially fully turbulent boundary layer. Attention is given to the experimental apparatus, the initial conditions, the education scheme, and the coherent-structure properties.
Microtubules contribute to the birefringence of the retinal nerve fiber layer.

Purpose The retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) exhibits birefringence that is due to the oriented cylindrical structure of the ganglion cell axons. Possible birefringent structures include axonal membranes, microtubules (MTs), and neurofilaments. MTs are generally assumed to be a major contributor, but this has not been demonstrated. In this study, the MT depolymerizing agent colchicine was used to evaluate the contribution of MTs to RNFL birefringence. Methods Retinal nerve fiber bundles of isolated rat retina were observed through an imaging polarimeter set near extinction. Images were taken over an extended period. During baseline, the tissue was perfused with a physiological solution. During a treatment period, the solution was switched either to a control solution identical with the baseline solution or to a similar solution containing colchicine. The contrast of nerve fiber bundles was used to follow change of RNFL birefringence over time. Results When imaged by the polarimeter, birefringent retinal nerve fiber bundles appeared as either bright or dark stripes. Bundles displayed as bright stripes were used to follow changes in retardance. The contrast of nerve fiber bundles was stable in control experiments. However, in treatment experiments, bundles were bright during the baseline period, but the contrast of bundles decreased rapidly when the colchicine solution was applied; bundles were barely visible after 30 minutes of treatment. After 70 minutes, the bundle contrast was close to zero at all wavelengths studied (440-780 nm). Conclusions MTs make a significant contribution to RNFL birefringence. The decrease of RNFL birefringence in glaucoma may indicate a loss of MTs.
Conservation principles in solitary impulse propagation through granular chains

Abstract An independent-collision model is advanced as a conceptually simple and computationally convenient framework for understanding non-linear impulse propagation in granular chains. In particular, conservation principles are used to show that the independent-collision model supports solitons in uniform granular chains, and exhibits an exponential dispersion of momentum and energy in tapered chains. These results are in qualitative agreement with recent detailed simulations of Hertzian spheres by Sen et al. (Physica A 299 (2001) 551). Near-quantitative agreement is achieved by renormalizing the width of an independent impulse by the solitary wave width. The model is easily extended, as we demonstrate by incorporating the effects of restitution.
Modulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical axis by caffeine.

Although caffeine is the most consumed psychoactive substance in the world, the extents of many of its effects are unknown. High doses of caffeine have been shown to activate the HPA axis while the effects of low to moderate doses have usually not been described in detail. Moreover, although several lines of evidence suggest that low doses of caffeine may restrain some negative affective states, the possible modulatory role of caffeine on HPA axis activation induced by a stressful stimulus has not been described. Thus, the present studies investigated the possible modulatory effects of low to moderate doses of caffeine on moderate to high HPA axis activation induced by different intensities of loud noise. First, in order to test this modulation, time courses for adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone responses to loud noise stress and to caffeine were defined, in rats. Plasma ACTH and corticosterone levels peaked 30 min from the onset of noise presentation, and rapidly declined after noise termination. A low caffeine dose of 2 mg/kg significantly increased plasma corticosterone and ACTH levels 30 min following injections, but levels returned to baseline 60 min following injections. Caffeine doses of 30 mg/kg and higher elevated plasma hormone levels for at least 2 h. Doses of 2 or 10 mg/kg, however, did not modulate endocrine responses to loud noise presentation. It is concluded that although caffeine activates the HPA axis, low to moderate doses do not modulate HPA axis responses to stressful stimuli.
The Longterm Treatment of an Asthmatic Patient Using Phentolamine

A 45-year-old woman who was incapacitated by severe exercise-induced asthma is presented. Phentolamine, a drug with α adrenergic blocking properties significantly reduced after-exercise bronchospasm, which had been uncontrolled by treatment with xanthines, antihistamines, ephedrine, steroids, isoproterenol and cromolyn sodium. Using a double-blind protocol, blocking of exercise-induced bronchospasm was demonstrated by both acute inhalation of phentolamine, 5 mg, and longterm oral administration of phentolamine, 300 mg/day. Two right heart catheterizations, one performed after placebo for six days, the other after orally administered phentolamine for over a month, showed little difference in her cardiovascular response to exercise, thus suggesting a direct effect of phentolamine on bronchial smooth muscle.
Testing Urban Theories Using Remote Sensing

Using the Atlanta metropolitan area, Georgia, as the case study, urban theories on spatial urban structure were tested using Landsat-7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) data, from which land use and land cover, NDVI, and surface temperatures were extracted. In combination with demographic and socioeconomic data, remote sensing and GIS revealed urban sprawl by dasymetric estimation of population distribution, uncovered the relationship between greenness and household income, identified employment centers as areas of high surface temperatures, and confirmed the polycentric spatial structure of Atlanta as the urban realm model that indicates the impact of the globalization force.
Plus curves and surfaces

The formulations for parametric curves and surfaces that are based on control points are revised to use control lines and control planes instead. Curves defined by control lines are called control-line curves or plus curves, and surfaces defined by control planes are called control-plane surfaces or plus surfaces; the plus implies that in addition to the control points, gradient vectors at the control points are used to design curves and surfaces. The new curve and surface formulations provide more flexibility than traditional formulations in geometric design. Properties of plus curves and surfaces are investigated and an application of plus surfaces in smooth parametric representation of polygon meshes is introduced.
Asthma, Eosinophilia, and Transient Pulmonary Infiltrates in a Young Man

'From the Pulmonary Service, Department of Medicine University of Southern California School of Medicine, and Los Angeles County-University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles. Reprint requests: Dr. S h a m , USC School of Medicine, 2025 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeks 90033 evaluation of increased frequency of asthmatic episodes and transient pulmonary infiltrates. Laboratory findings were as follows: Hgb, 14.0 gm percent, WBC 14,600 mms; P 64 percent; L 25 percent; M 7 percent; and E 14 percent. The peripheral eosinophil count varied from 3 to 19 percent. Tuberculin, histoplasmin, and coccidioidin skin tests were negative. Figures 1 and 2 were taken two months apart.
Elevated cardiac troponin levels predict the risk of adverse outcome in patients with acute coronary syndromes.

Abstract Background Elevations of cardiac troponin T or I are predictive of adverse outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndromes. However, odds ratios (ORs) vary substantially between studies. This investigation refines these values by means of a meta-analysis. Methods Twenty-one studies were suitable. ORs were calculated for short-term (30 days) and long-term (5 months to 3 years) follow-up in patients with ST-segment elevation (ST↑), in those without ST-segment elevation (no ST↑), and in patients with unstable angina. The primary end point was a composite of death or nonfatal myocardial infarction. Results A total of 18,982 patients were included. At 30 days, the OR for death or myocardial infarction was 3.44 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.94-4.03; P P P P Conclusions Patients with acute coronary syndromes who have troponin elevations show a substantial increase in risk during short and long-term follow-up. (Am Heart J 2000;140:917-27.)
Energy contents in benthic and planktonic invertebrates of Kosterfjorden, Sweden. A comparison of energetic strategies in marine organism groups

Abstract The results of an investigation of the energy values of 42 species of benthic and planktonic invertebrates from 12 phyla indicates that there is a significant higher average energy content per unit dry weight and ash-free dry weight in planktonic forms. The energy content was closely correlated to the proportion of organic matter in both groups, but several planktonic species displayed exceptionally high values. This can be explained by the ability to store large amounts of lipids in these species.
Biofeedback heart rate training during exercise.

Eighteen healthy human subjects participated in weekly sessions of five 10-minute trials of walking on a treadmill at 2.5 mph and 6% grade. Eight experimental subjects received beat-to-beat heart rate biofeedback during the exercise and were instructed to try to lower their heart rates; ten control subjects did not receive feedback. By the end of 5 weeks (25 trials), the experimental group showed a significantly lower mean heart rate (96.8 vs. 108.6 bpm), systolic blood pressure (114.0 vs. 131.3 mmHg), and rate-pressure product (11.0×103 vs. 14.3×103 bpm-mmHg) during exercise than the control group. These differences were maintained after crossover of the feedback provision for five more weeks.
6 The Orthodontic Approach to Class III Malocclusions

The orthodontist is not as familiar with Class III malocclusions as he is with Class II. With Class III malocclusions, mandibular growth must be watched, measured, and evaluated to determine if orthodontic treatment will overcome the malocclusion, or whether growth changes will recreate the original problem. A Class III malocclusion that can be resolved simply by tooth movement is a good candidate for orthodontic therapy.
Systolic Anterior Motion of the Mitral Valve and Outflow Obstruction After Mitral Valve Reconstruction

A 62-year-old woman with acute mitral regurgitation due to ruptured chordae tendineae underwent mitral valve reconstruction. Postoperatively, subaortic outflow obstruction developed. Echocardiography revealed marked systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve. We did not find a similar case in the literature.
Characteristics of mean velocity in the annulus wall region at the exit of turbomachinery rotor passage

This paper reports the experimental study of the three-dimensional characteristics of the mean velocity in the annulus-wall boundary layer and wake mixing region of a moderately loaded compressor rotor blade. The measurements reported were obtained using a three-sensor hot-wire probe at the exit of the rotor. They consisted of tangential surveys at several axial and radial locations downstream of the compressor rotor blade passage. The variation of the streamwise, normal, and radial velocity profiles and their decay characteristics are derived from this data. The measurements reveal the highly complex and three-dimensional nature of the annulus-wall flow field and the nature of the interaction of the annulus-wall boundary layer, the blade boundary layers and wake, and the secondary flow associated with the annulus-wall region.
Global information architectures: Alternatives and tradeoffs

The alignment of information architectures with business strategies is important for organizations in order to achieve global pre-eminence. Past architectures have been limited in that they consider only technical and computer-based aspects of information technology. This article broadens this view by including the functional aspects (data, voice, image, or video transmission) of information technologies. Five information architectures emerge as feasible for global corporations. Examples of companies using these architectures are provided. These architectures are further compared using cost variables. The article provides a means for researchers and managers to classify and evaluate the current architectures used in global corporations, and help carefully plan future architectures.
Thresholds for Activation of Rabbit Retinal Ganglion Cells with an Ultrafine, Extracellular Microelectrode

PURPOSE: To determine electrical thresholds required for extracellular activation of retinal ganglion cells as part of a project to develop an epiretinal prosthesis. METHODS: Retinal ganglion cells were recorded extracellularly in retinas isolated from adult New Zealand White rabbits. Electrical current pulses of 100- micro s duration were delivered to the inner surface of the retina from a 5- micro m long electrode. In about half of the cells, the point of lowest threshold was found by searching with anodal current pulses; in the other cells, cathodal current pulses were used. RESULTS: Threshold measurements were obtained near the cell bodies of 20 ganglion cells and near the axons of 19 ganglion cells. Both cathodal and anodal stimuli evoked a neural response in the ganglion cells that consisted of a single action potential of near-constant latency that persisted when retinal synaptic transmission was blocked with cadmium chloride. For cell bodies, but not axons, thresholds for both cathodal and anodal stimulation were dependent on the search method used to find the point of lowest threshold. With search and stimulation of matching polarity, cathodal stimuli evoked a ganglion cell response at lower currents (approximately one seventh to one tenth axonal threshold) than did anodal stimuli for both cell bodies and axons. With cathodal search and stimulation, cell body median thresholds were somewhat lower (approximately one half) than the axonal median thresholds. With anodal search and stimulation, cell body median thresholds were approximately the same as axonal median thresholds. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that cathodal stimulation should produce lower thresholds, more localized stimulation, and somewhat better selectivity for cell bodies over axons than would anodal stimulation.
A barium-sulfur-phosphorous-nitrogen ring system: synthesis and crystal structure of Ba[(SP(Ph)2)2N]2 · 2 DME

Abstract The initial structural characterization of a barium-sulfur covalent interaction is reported.
Progress in the growth of Yb : S–FAP laser crystals

The crystal growth of Yb:S-FAP [Yb{sup 3+}:Sr{sub 5}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3}F] is being studied for 1.047-{micro}m laser operation. These crystals are not yet routinely available and the growth of high optical quality, low loss crystals poses a challenge due to a number of crystal growth issues, including, cloudiness, bubble core defects, anomalous absorption, low-angle grain boundaries, and cracking. At this time, a growth process has been formulated to simultaneously eliminate or greatly diminish each of the defects yielding high quality material. Laser slabs of dimension 4.0 x 6.0 x 0.75 cm are being fabricated from sub-scale pieces using the diffusion bonding technique.
Connecting to nature at the zoo: implications for responding to climate change

Societal response to climate change has been inadequate. A perception that the issue is both physically and temporally remote may reduce concern; concern may also be affected by the political polarization surrounding the issue in the USA. A feeling of connection to nature or to animals may increase personal relevance, and a supportive social context may counteract political tensions. Zoos may provide opportunities for both sense of connection and social support. We surveyed over 7000 zoo and aquarium visitors to examine the ways in which a feeling of personal connection among zoo visitors may encourage concern about climate change. Results show that feeling connected to animals at the zoo is significantly associated with cognitive and emotional responses to climate change, as well as with other social groupings and social responses. Overall, the zoo seems to present a supportive social context for considering the topic.
Enhanced acquisition of cocaine self-administration by increasing percentages of C57BL/6J genes in mice with a nonpreferring outbred background

Rationale Individual differences in the propensity to acquire drug self-administration may have a substantial genetic basis.
Exaggerated Expression of Inflammatory Mediators in Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide Knockout (VIP −/− ) Mice with Cyclophosphamide (CYP)-Induced Cystitis

Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) is an immunomodulatory neuropeptide distributed in micturition pathways. VIP−/− mice exhibit altered bladder function and neurochemical properties in micturition pathways after cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced cystitis. Given VIP’s role as an anti-inflammatory mediator, we hypothesized that VIP−/− mice would exhibit enhanced inflammatory mediator expression after cystitis. A mouse inflammatory cytokine and receptor RT2 profiler array was used to determine regulated transcripts in the urinary bladder of wild type (WT) and VIP−/− mice with or without CYP-induced cystitis (150 mg/kg; i.p.; 48 h). Four binary comparisons were made: WT control versus CYP treatment (48 h), VIP−/− control versus CYP treatment (48 h), WT control versus VIP−/− control, and WT with CYP treatment (48 h) versus VIP−/− with CYP treatment (48 h). The genes presented represent (1) greater than 1.5-fold change in either direction and (2) the p value is less than 0.05 for the comparison being made. Several regulated genes were validated using enzyme-linked immunoassays including IL-1β and CXCL1. CYP treatment significantly (p ≤ 0.001) increased expression of CXCL1 and IL-1β in the urinary bladder of WT and VIP−/− mice, but expression in VIP−/− mice with CYP treatment was significantly (p ≤ 0.001) greater (4.2- to 13-fold increase) than that observed in WT urinary bladder (3.6- to 5-fold increase). The data suggest that in VIP−/− mice with bladder inflammation, inflammatory mediators are increased above that observed in WT with CYP. This shift in balance may contribute to increased bladder dysfunction in VIP−/− mice with bladder inflammation and altered neurochemical expression in micturition pathways.
High-dose inhibition and low-dose enhancement of murine sarcoma growth exhibited by BCG vaccine

Abstract An in vivo assay for BCG anti-cancer efficacy was developed, utilizing subcutaneous injection into CFW Swiss-Webster mice of cultured S180 sarcoma cells and mixed with freeze-dried Tice ™ BCG vaccine. A BCG dose of 0.156–1.56 mg dry weight significantly inhibited tumor formation, but a BCG dose of 0.156–1.56 μg significantly enhanced tumor growth, evidenced by increased tumor incidence, volume and initial growth rate. These antagonistic activities may contribute to the high variability of BCG anti-cancer efficacy seen in animals and humans and indicate the need to exercise caution when employing even low doses of BCG for cancer immunotherapy.
Spermidine cures flies of senior moments

Gupta et al. report in this issue that, in Drosophila melanogaster, a dietary supplement of spermidine—a polyamine originally isolated from semen—protects against cognitive aging by acting through the autophagic pathway.
Mechanisms of Liver Injury. II. Mechanisms of neutrophil-induced liver cell injury during hepatic ischemia-reperfusion and other acute inflammatory conditions

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (neutrophils) are a vital part of the innate immune response to microbial infections and tissue trauma, e.g., ischemia-reperfusion injury, in many organs including the liver. However, an excessive inflammatory response can lead to a dramatic aggravation of the existing injury. To design interventions, which selectively target the detrimental effects of neutrophils, a detailed understanding of the pathophysiology is critical. Systemic or local exposure to proinflammatory mediators causes activation and priming of neutrophils for reactive oxygen formation and recruits them into the vascular beds of the liver without causing tissue injury. However, generation of a chemotactic signal from the parenchyma will trigger extravasation and an attack on target cells (e.g., hepatocytes). Adhesion to the target induces degranulation with release of proteases and formation of reactive oxygen species including hydrogen peroxide and hypochlorous acid, which can diffuse into hepatocytes and induce an intracellular oxidant stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Various neutrophil-derived proteases are involved in transmigration and cell toxicity but can also promote the inflammatory response by processing of proinflammatory mediators. In addition, necrotic cells release mediators, e.g., high-mobility group box-1, which further promotes neutrophilic hepatitis and tissue damage. On the basis of these evolving insights into the mechanisms of neutrophil-mediated liver damage, the most selective strategies appear not to interfere with the cytotoxic potential of neutrophils, but rather strengthen the target cells' defense mechanisms including enhancement of the intracellular antioxidant defense systems, activation of cell survival pathways, or initiation of cell cycle activation and regeneration.
Prevention through Design: Health Hazards in Asphalt Roofing

AbstractThe optimal method of preventing occupational illnesses, injuries, and fatalities is to design out the hazards and risks, thereby eliminating the need to control them during work operations. In 2007, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health launched a national Prevention through Design (PtD) initiative calling on all major industrial sectors to emphasize hazard mitigation at the design stage. PtD applies to the design of all tools, equipment, materials, and work processes that are employed during the construction process. This article reviews the asphalt roofing health hazards and currently available design solutions for their control and identifies gaps and priorities for further research. PtD solutions such as tanker systems, insulated hot luggers, mechanical asphalt spreaders, fume-suppressing asphalt, and local exhaust ventilation systems are discussed in terms of effectiveness and availability.
Chromosomes and causation of human cancer and leukemia. XLII. Ph1-positive ALL: An entity within myeloproliferative disorders?

Abstract The clinical, survival, and cytogenetic features of 8 cases with Philadelphia chromosome (Ph 1 )-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have been presented. Based on these data, and taken in conjunction with surface marker and enzymic characteristics of the leukemic cells, it is proposed that Ph 1 -positive ALL, though sharing many of the clinical and laboratory aspects of Ph 1 -negative ALL, is in some cases probably a disease of the pre-B cell type, or its close lymphoid entity, with such cell probably originating from a myeloid precursor. The reversion of Ph 1 -positive ALL to chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML) and the many common features it shares with the lymphoid blastic phase (BP) of CML, as well as the rare appearance of acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) or myeloid features subsequent to complete remission (CR) of Ph 1 -positive ALL, when taken together indicate that Ph 1 -positive ALL is probably a disease within the myeloproliferative disorders. The cell predominating at any one moment decides the character of the disease, which may vary from ALL to CML to AML and to the BP of CML. The literature on Ph 1 -positive ALL is reviewed and tabulated and the various cytogenetic, survival, and clinical features of the disease discussed and delineated. Some of the confusing elements of Ph 1 -positive ALL versus the BP of CML are also discussed and the two diseases put in perspective in light of the hypothesis of the pre-B cell (or its close lymphoid entities) origin of some of these leukemias.
Craft and Community: Traditional Arts in Contemporary Society

Craft and Community: Traditional Arts in Contemporary Society. Shalom D. Staub. ed. Philadelphia, Pa. The Balch Institute for Ethnic Studies and the Pennsylvania Heritage Affairs Commission, 1988.
C1q deposition in the renal allograft: a report of 24 cases.

C1q nephropathy is an uncommon glomerular disease characterized by dominant or codominant mesangial staining for C1q in the absence of systemic lupus erythematosus. There are no series in the literature addressing the significance of C1q deposition in the renal allograft. We retrospectively analyzed 24 patients, most of whom were white (83%) and male (63%), with a mean age at transplant of 31 years. None of the patients were diagnosed with C1q nephropathy in the native kidney or had any features of systemic lupus erythematosus. The mean time from transplant to detection of mesangial C1q deposits was 37 months (>12 months in 71% of cases). Half of the patients had a preceding infection. The indication for biopsy was surveillance (63%) or graft dysfunction (37%). At biopsy, 52% had proteinuria (>1g/day in only 17%). The mean creatinine was 1.8 mg per 100 ml. Only 9% developed hematuria and none had hypoalbuminemia. The glomerular pattern on light microscopy was mesangial hypercellularity (46%), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (21%), or no lesions (33%). All cases showed intense (≥2+) dominant (67%) or codominant (33%) mesangial staining for C1q on immunofluorescence. Mesangial electron-dense deposits were seen in 82% of cases. On follow-up (mean 1 year) of the 10 patients without rejection, most had stable creatinine with no or stable proteinuria, and none lost their graft. We conclude that C1q-dominant mesangial deposition in the renal allograft is a morphological pattern with no apparent clinical significance in the majority of patients. It is usually detected after the first year. The rate of preceding infection and the prevalence of proteinuria seem to be similar to the renal transplant recipients in general. Most cases show mesangial hypercellularity or no glomerular changes on light microscopy.
Continuous hot electron generation in Pt/TiO2, Pd/TiO2, and Pt/GaN catalytic nanodiodes from oxidation of carbon monoxide.

Thin films (<10 nm) of platinum or palladium were deposited on TiO2 or GaN to form Schottky diodes. We detected and monitored the continuous electron flow across the metal−oxide interfaces of Pt/TiO2, Pd/TiO2, and Pt/GaN during the catalytic oxidation of carbon monoxide. The electron excitation and flow in the metals were due to conversion of energy released by the oxidation of carbon monoxide into the kinetic energy of free electrons in platinum and palladium. The best conversion of three electrons per four CO2 molecules was observed from 5 nm Pt/TiO2.
Balance of DNA methylation and demethylation in cancer development

Genome-wide 5-hydroxymethylome analysis of a rodent hepatocarcinogen model reveals that 5-hydroxymethylcytosine-dependent active DNA demethylation may be functionally important in the early stages of carcinogenesis.