cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RAPD markers efficiently distinguish heterogenous populations of wild potato (Solanum)

Genetic characterization of germplasm is important for setting objective guidelines for conservation. One common problem found in genebanks is determining the value of populations with insufficient or unreliable data regarding their geographic origin. In this study, a genetic analysis based on RAPD markers was conducted to characterize a `mystery' population of Solanum sucrense, a polysomic tetraploid potato (2n=4x=48), for which adequate documentation was lacking. The comparative analysis of genetic similarities between this mystery population and each one of 30 other S. sucrense populations in the genebank revealed that all populations within this species, including the mystery population, are significantly different from being duplicates, and are therefore worthy of separate conservation. RAPD markers also distinguished the mystery population from closely related tetraploid species S. oplocense, S. gourlayi and S. tuberosum ssp. andigena, suggesting that it is also not a duplicate of a population of these species. If RAPDs can clearly differentiate populations within highly heterogeneous tetraploids like S. sucrense, they should be generally useful for determining germplasm organization within potato species.
Photoemission investigation of the Schottky barrier at the Sc/3C-SiC (111) interface

The Schottky barrier and interfacial chemistry for interfaces formed by evaporation of Sc onto 3C-SiC (111)-(1x1) surfaces at 600 °C has been investigated using in situ X-ray and ultra-violet photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS and UPS) and low energy electron diffraction (LEED). Sc was observed to grow in a two-dimensional manner and exhibit a (1x1) LEED pattern up to thicknesses of ∼2 nm beyond which diffraction patterns were no longer observable. XPS measurements of these same films showed a clear reaction of Sc with the 3C-SiC (111)-(1x1) surface to form a ScSix and ScCx interfacial layer in addition to the formation of a metallic Sc film. XPS measurements also showed the deposition of Sc induced ∼0.5 eV of upward band bending resulting in a Schottky barrier of 0.65 ± 0.15 eV.
Close Binary Models for Luminous Blue Variable Stars

The evolution of massive close binary stars inevitably involves mass exchange between the two stellar components as well as mass loss from the system. A combination of these two processes could produce the stellar wind-modulated behavior seen in LBVs. The possibility that LBVs are powered by accretion is examined, and does not appear to be a satisfactory general model. Instead, identification of LBVs with close binaries in high mass-loss rate or common envelope evolutionary phases shows promise.
Nutrition and low birth weight: from research to practice

Low birth weight (LBW) remains a significant public health problem in many developing countries, and poor nutrition both before and during pregnancy is recognized as an important cause. Emerging evidence on the role of intergenerational effects in determining maternal preconceptual nutritional status indicates the need for continued investment in strategies that improve women's nutrition and health throughout the life cycle, especially during the early years. Controlled trials have shown that improving food intakes during pregnancy effectively reduces LBW, but programs have been less successful because these interventions are expensive and difficult to manage. Multivitamin-mineral supplements have been viewed as a simpler solution, but 2 of 3 controlled trials conducted to date failed to show that multivitamin-mineral supplements are more effective than are iron-folate supplements, which are already the standard of care during pregnancy. Emerging evidence indicating the benefits of iron supplements in improving birth weight illustrate the need for increased efforts to reduce iron deficiency by improving coverage of antenatal programs and promoting fortification. Other causes of LBW include environmental factors, such as smoking; indoor air pollution; and infections, such as malaria. However, little is known about the interactions between nutrition and infection. Underlying social factors, such as poverty and women's status, are also important, especially in South Asia, where more than one-half of the world's LBW infants are born. In summary, strategies that combine nutrition-based interventions, such as improving food intakes and micronutrient status, especially iron status, with approaches that improve women's status and reproductive health are needed to reduce LBW.
The syndrome of ectrodactyly, ectodermal dysplasia and cleft lip and palate: report of a family demonstrating a dominant inheritance pattern.

The syndrome of ectrodactyly, ectodermal dysplasia and cleft lip and palate (EEC syndrome) is described in a mother and 3 of her 4 children. Autosomal dominant inheritance was suggested in this family. However, genetic heterogeneity may exist in this syndrome. The significance of associated finClings, incluCling carcinoma of the cervix uteri, lacrimal duct stenosis and urinary tract strictures in patients with ectodermal dysplasia is considered.
Freedom National: The Destruction of Slavery in the United States, 1861–1865. By James Oakes. (New York, NY: W. W. Norton, 2013. Pp. xxiv, 595. $27.95.)

The author of this study charts the evolution of Civil War‐era abolitionist policy from its prewar antislavery origins to the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment. The book's importance stems n...
Tissue temperature monitoring with multiple gradient-echo imaging sequences

The inherent sensitivity of multiple gradient-echo sequences to the chemical shift is exploited to rapidly map muscle water frequency shifts caused by ultrasonic heating. The use of multiple echoes is shown to offer several advantages over single gradient-echo approaches previously proposed for temperature measurement. An increase in the effective bandwidth significantly reduces aliasing problems observed with single gradient-echo methods in high temperature applications. Of greater significance is the improved immunity to intrascan motion found for multi-echo versus single echo gradient methods, making the former more attractive for clinical applications. Finally, a sensitivity to the presence of multiple spectral components unavailable with single gradient-echo methods is obtained.
Formation of secondary organic aerosol from irradiated α-pinene/toluene/NOx mixtures and the effect of isoprene and sulfur dioxide

[1] Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) was generated by irradiating a series of α-pinene/toluene/NOx mixtures in the absence and presence of isoprene or sulfur dioxide. The purpose of the experiment was to evaluate the extent to which chemical perturbations to this base-case (α-pinene/toluene) mixture led to changes in the gas-phase chemistry which strongly influences mass and composition of SOA and secondary organic carbon (SOC) formed. The chemical composition was examined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry (LDI-MS). The results showed that the addition of isoprene to the base-case mixture significantly lowered the amount of toluene reacted, and thereby lowered the amount SOC produced. Simultaneous measurement of the organic NOy showed that reactions of isoprene effectively sequester NO2 by producing gas-phase organic nitrates. The addition of SO2 to the base-case mixture, while having little effect on the gas-phase chemistry, formed sulfuric acid which led to a modest enhancement of the SOC through acid-catalyzed or sulfur-incorporating reactions of α-pinene. The contribution of each hydrocarbon to the composition of the SOA was estimated using an organic tracer method. SOC from the tracer technique tended to underpredict the measured SOC, although the underprediction was especially pronounced with SO2 present. A comparison of the chromatographic results from samples of the irradiation of the α-pinene/toluene/isoprene/NOx/SO2 mixture and ambient PM2.5 showed the presence of two unique peaks that were associated with reactions of isoprene and SO2.
Sexually transmitted infection/HIV risk reduction interventions in clinical practice settings.

African American women, particularly those who live in inner-city areas, experience disproportionately high rates of sexually transmitted infections including HIV. As there are currently no preventive vaccines for HIV and most sexually transmitted infections, prevention efforts must focus on behavioral risk reduction. Thus, culturally tailored interventions for African American women are needed to reduce their incidence of sexually transmitted infections including HIV. One place to intervene with inner-city African American women is in primary care settings. Primary care settings have the potential to reach a wide range of women, including those who may not proactively seek sexually transmitted infection/HIV prevention services. However, in order to be feasible for use in clinical settings, sexually transmitted infection/HIV risk reduction interventions must be brief and easily adapted for use with diverse clients in varied practice environments. To date, few brief sexually transmitted infection/HIV prevention interventions have been designed for use with African American women in primary care settings. Only one of these, the “Sister to Sister: Respect Yourself! Protect Yourself! Because You Are Worth It!” intervention, has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing sexual risk behaviors and sexually transmitted infection incidence. This article describes this 20-minute, one-on-one nurse-led intervention for African American women and discusses considerations for its implementation in primary care and other clinical settings.
Laurencia crustiformans sp. nov. (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) from the Hawaiian Islands

Abstract Laurencia crustiformans sp. nov. is a common component of red algal turf in the intertidal zone in Hawaii. Laurencia crustiformans is distinguished from other Laurencia species by its densely packed, nearly unbranched, upright axes arising from a tough, spreading basal crust. Basal crusts have been reported in only one other species (L. flagellifera). Tetrasporangial arrangement and cortical cell structure indicate that Hawaiian specimens previously identified as L. obtusa (Hudson) Lamouroux var. rigidula Grunow belong to the new species. Laboratory cultures of L. crustiformans have been successfully initiated from tetraspores and maintained for over 15 months. Lectotypes of L. obtusa var. rigidula and var. squarrulosa were also chosen.
Elastic modulus determination of coating layers as applied to layered ceramic composites

Abstract This paper develops relationships for determining the in-plane elastic modulus of a coating by two experimental techniques: (1) dynamic resonance and (2) static bend. Dynamic resonance measurements on model two-layer and three-layer composite beams (consisting of bonded strips of alumina and glass) agree well with the relationships developed. In addition, the dynamic resonance and static bend techniques are applied to a SiC coating/graphite substrate composite, where the two methods give statistically similar results for the elastic modulus of the SiC coatings.
Propensity score estimation: neural networks, support vector machines, decision trees (CART), and meta-classifiers as alternatives to logistic regression

Abstract Objective Propensity scores for the analysis of observational data are typically estimated using logistic regression. Our objective in this review was to assess machine learning alternatives to logistic regression, which may accomplish the same goals but with fewer assumptions or greater accuracy. Study Design and Setting We identified alternative methods for propensity score estimation and/or classification from the public health, biostatistics, discrete mathematics, and computer science literature, and evaluated these algorithms for applicability to the problem of propensity score estimation, potential advantages over logistic regression, and ease of use. Results We identified four techniques as alternatives to logistic regression: neural networks, support vector machines, decision trees (classification and regression trees [CART]), and meta-classifiers (in particular, boosting). Conclusion Although the assumptions of logistic regression are well understood, those assumptions are frequently ignored. All four alternatives have advantages and disadvantages compared with logistic regression. Boosting (meta-classifiers) and, to a lesser extent, decision trees (particularly CART), appear to be most promising for use in the context of propensity score analysis, but extensive simulation studies are needed to establish their utility in practice.
FLUID FLOW BEHAVIOR INSIDE A CIRCULAR HELICOIDAL PIPE USING A LASER DOPPLER ANEMOMETRY/VELOCIMETRY (LDA/LDV) SYSTEM

ABSTRACT An experimental study using Laser Doppler Anemometry/Velocimetry (LDA/LDV) has been carried out to investigate the fully developed Newtonian laminar flow inside a helicoidal pipe. In the helicoidal pipe test section, the curvature ratio of the centerline of the coil diameter to the pipe diameter, Dc/d, and the pitch ratio of the centerline of the coil diameter to the pitch of the coil, Dc/b, are 13.6 and 4.0, respectively. The uncertainties for velocity, the friction factor, the Reynolds number, and the Dean number were found to be under 1.52%, 3.41%, 2.37% and 2.60%, respectively. In the present investigation, the friction factor for the helicoidal pipe was measured and it was found that the flow remains laminar until Re ≈ 8,000, which is much higher than the critical Reynolds number for a straight pipe (Recr ≈ 2,500). In addition, the ratio of friction factor of the current helicoidal pipe (fc) to the friction factor of the straight pipe (fs) has been compared with previous investigations, and good agreement has been obtained. Furthermore, the axial velocity distributions at two different cross sections of a helicoidal pipe for different Reynolds numbers (1,360, 2,500, 3,100, 4,400 and 5,900, corresponding to Dean numbers of 369,678, 841, 1,193 and 1,600, respectively), have been measured and reported herein. One component of the secondary velocity perpendicular to the axial velocity and the measuring line has also been measured on the entire cross section. The secondary velocity measurement confirms that two vortices are superimposed on the axial flow, and that the magnitude of the secondary flow is proportional to the axial flow or Reynolds number. Upon inspection of the velocity contours, it was observed that the fully developed axial velocity profile shifts toward the outer wall of the helicoidal pipe as a result of the centrifugal force acting on the fluid flow in the helicoidal pipe. It is experimentally illustrated that as axial velocity becomes fully developed, the secondary flow also acquire a similar flow pattern. Inspection of results reveals that the symmetry of the axial velocity distributions and the secondary flow pattern is slightly altered due to an effect of the finite pitch or torsion in the present experiments. Thus, it can be concluded that the torsion effect for the pitch ratio (Dc/b=4.0) in the present investigation is very small compared to the curvature effect, but it is evident.
Color-selective quantum dot photodetection through plasmonic integration

We propose a color-selective photodetection scheme through integration of Au nanoparticles with CdSe/ZnS quantum dot photodetectors. Preliminary experimental results confirm enhancement of photodetector external quantum efficiency at wavelengths near the plasmonic resonance of Au nanoparticles.
The purpose of immunity: Landsteiner's interpretation of the human isoantibodies

In the 1890's, when immunology was beginning to develop, there was no difficulty in fitting it into the Darwinian pattern of survival of the fittest. The phagocytes in Elie Metchnikoff's theory of immunity and the serum antibodies in the theory of Emil von Behring both had an obvious role in the defense of the organism against attacking bacteria. Though Darwinism no longer allowed biologists to assume the design of parts for a purpose, it became almost impossible not to think in terms of their usefulness in the struggle for existence, particularly where the usefulness was as clear as was the case with the mechanisms of immunity. The resistance of some species to infections which cause disease in others was a little more difficult to fit into this pattern than was the immunity which followed the invasion and defeat of bactena, but von Behring, in an essay of 1899 on the history and theory of immunity, placed the problem generally "within the domain of the hypothesis developed by Darwin on variety, selection, adaptation and the laws of inheritance."' Emile Duclaux, director of the Institut Pasteur in Paris, writing in 1896, saw the phagocytic white cells as repulsing a foreign enemy: "the white cells of the blood play the role of gendarmes in the organism, circulating constantly, always ready to throw themselves on anything that appears to be foreign, that is, an enemy, living or dead."2 A few years later, in 1899, he was still using the same imagery of armed struggle:
Muscle atrophy in patients receiving hemodialysis: Effects on muscle strength, muscle quality, and physical function

Muscle atrophy in patients receiving hemodialysis: Effects on muscle strength, muscle quality, and physical function. Background Dialysis patients are less active and have reduced functional capacity compared to individuals with normal renal function. Muscle atrophy and weakness may contribute to these problems. This investigation was undertaken to quantify the extent of atrophy in the lower extremity muscles, to determine whether defects in muscle specific strength (force per unit mass) or central nervous system (CNS) activation are present, and to assess the relationship between muscle size and physical performance in a group of patients on hemodialysis. Methods Thirty-eight dialysis subjects (aged 55 ± 15 years) and nineteen healthy sedentary controls (aged 55 ± 13 years) were enrolled. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lower leg was used to determine the total cross-sectional area (CSA) and the area of contractile and non-contractile tissue of the ankle dorsiflexor muscles. Isometric dorsiflexor strength was measured during a maximal voluntary contraction with and without superimposed tetanic stimulation ( N = 22 for dialysis subjects, N = 12 for controls). Physical activity was measured by accelerometry, and gait speed was recorded as a measure of physical performance. Results Dialysis subjects were weaker, less active, and walked more slowly than controls. Total muscle compartment CSA was not significantly different between dialysis subjects and controls, but the contractile CSA was smaller in the dialysis patients even after adjustment for age, gender, and physical activity. Central activation and specific strength were normal. Gait speed was correlated with contractile CSA. Conclusions Significant atrophy and increased non-contractile tissue are present in the muscle of patients on hemodialysis. The relationship between contractile area and strength is intact in this population. Muscle atrophy is associated with poor physical performance. Thus, interventions to increase physical activity or otherwise address atrophy may improve performance and quality of life.
Location preference and flavor aversion reinforced by amphetamine in rats

To associate the identical drug state with both a location and a flavor, rats were given intraperitoneal amphetamine injections and then confined for 20 min in one side of a shuttlebox with access to a flavored solution; on control trials without injections, they were confined for 20 min in the opposite side with a different flavor. In the first experiment, the rats were placed in the shuttlebox immediately after injections; in the second experiment, they were placed in the shuttlebox 20 min after injections. Subsequent free-choice tests in both experiments revealed an increased choice of the side of the shuttlebox associated with amphetamine but also an aversion to the flavored solution associated with the drug.
Mercury Abolishes Neurotrophic Factor-Stimulated Jak-STAT Signaling in Nerve Cells by Oxidative Stress

Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that can delay neurological development in neonates, and has been proposed to be an environmental risk factor for several neurodegenerative conditions. The mechanisms by which environmental factors may influence the propagation of neurodegenerative diseases are not yet well delineated. However, it is known that neurons require trophic factor support for maintenance and survival following traumatic physical and toxic insults. We found that divalent mercury (HgCl(2)) inhibited ciliary neurotrophic factor and interferon-gamma receptor-mediated Janus tyrosine kinase (Jak)/signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathway activation in SK-N-BE(2)-C neuroblastoma cell cultures, but did not inhibit the fibroblast growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase. Results of dichlorofluorescein experiments showed increased levels of oxidative stress in HgCl(2)-treated cells that was similar in magnitude to that caused by treatment with H(2)O(2). The antioxidant agents glutathione, N-acetylcysteine, and sodium ascorbate each protected neurons against HgCl(2)-induced inhibition of STAT activation. HgCl(2) also inhibited Jak-STAT signaling in cultures of chick retina neurons, but did not affect signaling in nonneuronal HepG2 cells and chick skeletal myotubes. The specific inhibition of growth factor-mediated Jak-STAT signaling pathways in neurons by HgCl(2)-induced oxidative stress offers a new mechanism by which mercury may produce neurotoxic symptoms in the developing nervous system, promote neurodegeneration in mature neurons, and inhibit recovery following neurotrauma.
Flavonoids of the North American species of Leucophysalis (Solanaceae)

Abstract The known flavonoids, quercetin 3-rutinoside-7-glucoside, kaempferol 3-rutinoside-7-glucoside, quercetin 3,7-diglucoside, rutin, kaempferol 3-rutinoside, quercetin 3-glucoside, kaempferol 3-glucoside, quercetin 7-glucoside, and kaempferol 7-glucoside were found in leaf extracts of Leucophysalis nana and L. grandiflora ; the latter species also contained kaempferol 3,7-diglucoside.
Reviewer online engagement: the role of rank, well-being, and market helping behavior

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of a retailer-managed ranking system on product reviewers’ well-being and its relationship to customer engagement. Design/methodology/approach – Content analysis of reviewers’ posts, generated over a six-month period following a critical incident involving a change in the reviewer ranking system, informs findings. Findings – Fulfilling needs for social relatedness, competency and autonomy may be critical aspects that underlie reviewer engagement. Findings explain how organic and hierarchical reviewing platform design elements may support or thwart psychological need fulfillment. Reviewers expressed positive well-being when system elements facilitated organic interactions between consumers and reviewers, fulfilling social relatedness and competency needs. Hierarchical design elements elicited mixed well-being sentiments. When reviewers used rank as a feedback mechanism to signal competency development, positive well-being emerged, whereas ranking...
Inhibition of hemagglutinins by amino acids.

Resume L'agglutination des erythrocytes humains par differents types d'hemagglutinines est inhibee par certains acides amines a haute concentration, plus particulierement, la L-cysteine, la L-histidine, et la L-lysine, toutefois, il est possible que cette inhibition soit non-specifique. La lysine, en particulier, semble inhiber la plupart des agglutinines utilisees. La fixation des proteines non-specifiques obtenues a partir de la feve de Sieva Lima est partiellement inhibee par le L-tryptophane et par la cytidine. On espere que ces observations pourront avoir une importance pratique. Zusammenfassung Die Agglutination von menschlichen Erythrozyten durch eine Reihe von Hamagglutininen wird durch hohe Konzentrationen gewisser Aminosauren, namentlich L-Cystein, L-Histidin und L-Lysin gehemmt. Diese Hemmung ist moglicherweise un-spezifisch. Lysin erwies sich als besonders aktiv und vermochte die Mehrzahl der untersuchten Hamagglutinine zu hemmen. Die Aufnahme von unspezifischem Protein aus Sieva Lima-Bohnenpraparationen wird durch L-Tryptophan und Cytidin teilweise gehemmt. Es ist zu hoffen, das der letzteren Beobachtung dereinst praktische Bedeutung zukommen wird.
Epidemic aluminum intoxication in hemodialysis patients traced to use of an aluminum pump.

Epidemic aluminum intoxication in hemodialysis patients traced to use of an aluminum pump. This study was designed to identify the source, risk factors, and clinical consequences of an outbreak of aluminum intoxication in hemodialysis patients using case-control and cohort studies. In 1991, a dialysis center in Pennsylvania [Dialysis Center A (DCA)] identified a number of patients with elevated serum aluminum levels. All patients receiving dialysis at DCA during January 1, 1987 to March 26, 1992 were involved in the study. A case-patient was defined as any patient with a serum aluminum level ≥100 µ/liter after ≥5 dialysis sessions at DCA. Fifty-nine case-patients were identified. Risk factors for elevated serum aluminum levels were receipt of bicarbonate- (rather than acetate-) based dialysate, higher number of sessions using bicarbonate dialysis, receipt of acid concentrate (used in bicarbonate dialysis) passed through one of two electric pumps, and a greater number of sessions using this concentrate. The electric pumps had an aluminum casing, casing cover, and impeller. Elevated levels of aluminum were found in acid concentrate after passing through a pump. Seizures and mental status changes requiring hospitalization were associated with aluminum exposure. We found that epidemic aluminum intoxication was caused by the use of an electric pump with aluminum housing to deliver acid concentrate used in bicarbonate dialysis. This outbreak demonstrates why it is essential to insure that all fluid pathways, storage tanks, central delivery systems, and pumps are compatible with low pH fluids before converting from acetate to bicarbonate dialysis.
A novel human insulin-like growth factor I messenger RNA is expressed in normal and tumor cells.

We have identified and characterized a novel human insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) precursor from the transplantable T61 human breast cancer xenograft and from normal liver. The mRNA encoding this precursor contains a 5′-untranslated region that is 83% identical to the corresponding region of a previously described variant rat IGF-I. The nucleotide sequence of the cloned cDNA predicts an IGF-IA protein precursor of 137 amino acids, including a 32 residue signal peptide, 70 amino acid IGF-I, and a 35 residue COOH-terminal extension or E peptide. The exon encoding this variant maps in the genome between IGF-I exons 1 and 2, in a similar location to the homologous rat exon 1a. The rat and human exons 1a are 59% identical over 1443 nucleotides, with DNA sequence conservation occurring in a mosaic pattern. Human IGF-I mRNAs encoding this novel exon are expressed in liver, T61 tumor cells, and in an ovarian carcinoma cell line, NIH OVCAR3. These studies demonstrate that as in the rat, the human IGF-I gene ...
Glucose‐6‐Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency and Blood Transfusion

Seven White American male blood donors with Italian surnames were found to have red cell glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency among 1,285 with Greek or Italian surnames screened. Five different genetic variants were found; G-6-PDs Mediterranean (2), "Athens-like" (2), San Juan, Columbus and "Canton-like". Clinical evaluation of 23 patients who received 24 units of G-6-PD-deficient blood (G-6-PD A-) failed to reveal any deleterious effects. Screening of Black donors for G-6-PD deficiency is believed unnecessary; further data are needed before a recommendation can be made concerning screening for non-Black donors.
Optimal staffing for Acute Care of the Elderly (ACE) units

Acute Care of the Elderly (ACE) units have been shown to improve outcomes for hospitalized elders. Because the literature offers little to describe the appropriate staffing of such units, we surveyed ACE units about their size, configuration, staffing, patient selection, training, and outcomes data. Although we had anticipated speaking with staff from 30 to 40 units, we were able to poll key personnel on only 18 ACE units. This article describes staffing and continuous quality improvement data for these sites.
On the mathematics of storage routing

Abstract Some mathematical aspects of storage routing are investigated analytically and through numerical simulation. The minimum size of the time interval required to eliminate computed values at the beginning of the outflow hydrograph falling below the initial steady flow rate is given for two routing schemes. The stability behavior of a refined Muskingum scheme is explored; it is found that values of the weighting coefficient up to 1.0 may be used with appropriately specified time intervals. The concept of “relative” storage is analyzed and it is shown that it is unnecessary when the correct initial condition of the storage is considered. The classical best straight-line fit procedure between storage and weighted discharge is investigated. In an example case, it is demonstrated that this method of system identification is not reliable. The possibility of using discharge-dependent parameters is discussed.
Cell therapies for muscular dystrophy.

A specific type of satellite cell can engraft dystrophic tissue in a mouse model of Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and can improve the strength and duration of muscle contractility.
Sustainable agricultural residue removal for bioenergy: A spatially comprehensive US national assessment

This study provides a spatially comprehensive assessment of sustainable agricultural residue removal potential across the United States for bioenergy production. Earlier assessments determining the quantity of agricultural residue that could be sustainably removed for bioenergy production at the regional and national scale faced a number of computational limitations. These limitations included the number of environmental factors, the number of land management scenarios, and the spatial fidelity and spatial extent of the assessment. This study utilizes integrated multi-factor environmental process modeling and high fidelity land use datasets to perform the sustainable agricultural residue removal assessment. Soil type represents the base spatial unit for this study and is modeled using a national soil survey database at the 10–100 m scale. Current crop rotation practices are identified by processing land cover data available from the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service Cropland Data Layer database. Land management and residue removal scenarios are identified for each unique crop rotation and crop management zone. Estimates of county averages and state totals of sustainably available agricultural residues are provided. The results of the assessment show that in 2011 over 150 million metric tons of agricultural residues could have been sustainably removed across the United States. Projecting crop yields and land management practices to 2030, the assessment determines that over 207 million metric tons of agricultural residues will be able to be sustainably removed for bioenergy production at that time. This biomass resource has the potential for producing over 68 billion liters of cellulosic biofuels.
Parental Involvement (and Uninvolvement) at an Inner-City High School

This study sought to understand the perceptions of parental involvement and parental uninvolvement at a predominantly African American inner-city high school. Qualitative interviews were conducted ...
Matricellular protein CCN1 (CYR61) expression is associated with high-grade ductal carcinoma in situ

Cysteine-rich protein 61, connective tissue growth factor, and nephroblastoma overexpressed gene (CCN) comprise a family of matricellular proteins that have multiple physiologic functions including development, tissue repair, cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. The expression of CCN1, cyclin D1, β-catenin, and p53 was explored by immunohistochemistry in different grades of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) cases. These cases did not contain any infiltrating carcinoma components. In addition, all cysteine-rich protein 61 gene exons (encoding the CCN1 protein) were sequenced in 30 samples. Allred and H-scores were calculated for expression in both DCIS and the surrounding benign breast tissue. All cases of DCIS showed degrees of cytoplasmic CCN1 staining with median H-scores of 170, 160, and 60 in grades 3, 2, and 1, respectively (P = .043). Twelve of 28 DCIS 3, 1 of 15 DCIS 2, and 0 of 18 DCIS 1 also showed nuclear staining for CCN1. The cytoplasmic staining difference was preserved when the cases were divided into estrogen receptor (ER)+/DCIS grade 1, ER+/DCIS 2 and 3, and ER-/DCIS 2 and 3 by the H-score (P = .037). Cyclin D1 expression was positively correlated with the CCN1 cytoplasmic H-score in all DCIS samples (P = .038). Membranous β-catenin expression correlated with the grade of intraepithelial carcinoma by both H-score (P = .047) and Allred score (P = .026). Our results suggest that CCN1 has a role in the development of intraepithelial carcinoma. CCN1 expression correlates with grade of DCIS independent of ER status. It can induce cell cycle progression through cyclin D1. It is warranted to study high expression of CCN1 in DCIS as an independent risk factor in a larger cohort.
Comparison of species profiles between O2 and NO2 oxidizers in premixed methane flames

Abstract The profiles of the species H, OH, CH, NH, CN, NCO, NO 2 , and CH 3 O are compared in a series of five premixed stoichiometric 15-torr CH 4 /O 2 /NO 2 /N 2 flames with NO 2 comprising between 0% and 40% of the oxidizer. Relative species concentrations were measured by laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) and these results are compared with calculations using measured temperature profiles. The reaction mechanism of Miller and Bowman incorrectly predicts the standoff from the burner in flames containing more than 20% NO 2 ; addition of several reactions involving NO 2 and HONO produces excellent agreement with experiment for most species. The reaction CH 3 + NO 2 → CH 3 O + NO is found to be particularly important in the reaction mechanism. LIF profiles of CH 3 O show this species to be present in far larger quantities in the NO 2 supported flames than in the CH 4 /O 2 system. The nitrogen-containing intermediates CN, NCO, and NH are all overpredicted by a factor of two in the 40% NO 2 flame relative to the 10% NO 2 flame. This indicates an inaccuracy in either the reburn reactions or the fuel nitrogen chemistry when large amounts of NO are present. The kinetic modeling shows that in the 40% NO 2 flame, the dominant pathway to N 2 formation is through N 2 O, which is produced primarily by the reaction of NCO with NO. Comparison of emission profiles of NO 2 ∗ for the various flames indicates that the appearance of an orange-yellow luminous zone at the base of NO 2 supported flames is caused by thermal excitation of NO 2 , not by a chemiluminescence mechanism.
parallelMCMCcombine: An R Package for Bayesian Methods for Big Data and Analytics

Recent advances in big data and analytics research have provided a wealth of large data sets that are too big to be analyzed in their entirety, due to restrictions on computer memory or storage size. New Bayesian methods have been developed for data sets that are large only due to large sample sizes. These methods partition big data sets into subsets and perform independent Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo analyses on the subsets. The methods then combine the independent subset posterior samples to estimate a posterior density given the full data set. These approaches were shown to be effective for Bayesian models including logistic regression models, Gaussian mixture models and hierarchical models. Here, we introduce the R package parallelMCMCcombine which carries out four of these techniques for combining independent subset posterior samples. We illustrate each of the methods using a Bayesian logistic regression model for simulation data and a Bayesian Gamma model for real data; we also demonstrate features and capabilities of the R package. The package assumes the user has carried out the Bayesian analysis and has produced the independent subposterior samples outside of the package. The methods are primarily suited to models with unknown parameters of fixed dimension that exist in continuous parameter spaces. We envision this tool will allow researchers to explore the various methods for their specific applications and will assist future progress in this rapidly developing field.
Comparative maturation of white and negro children in New Orleans

HOLMAN et al. have demonstrated 1 that fa t ty streaks, the earliest recognizable lesions of atherosclerosis, occur in all human aortas over three years of age. In the 11-15 year age range the total area of lipid involvement increases rapidly in the New Orleans Negro and slowly in the New Orleans white so that the Negroes in this age range have on the average four times as much aortic intimal area involved with fa t ty streaks as do the whites. Increased activity in the formation of fa t ty streaks during the age range quoted suggests that the endocrine changes of puber ty may somehow be involved in this stage of atherogenesis. I t was the object of this s tudy to measure some of the adrenal and gonadal hormones that would reflect the function of these respective organs in white and Negro children in the New Orleans area in order to test the hypothesis that the Negroes mature sexually at an earlier age than the whites.
Scale for Assessing Functional Impairment in Adults with Asthma

Improved outcome measures for asthma research, especially measures of functional status and quality of life, have become increasingly important. This research describes one such measure, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Functional Impairment Scale. This scale consists of eight items to assess the impact of asthma on various aspects of daily living. The psychometric properties of the UAB Scale were assessed in two samples. The coefficient alpha reliabilities were high in both samples (.83 and .84), and the item-total correlations indicated all items were measuring the same trait. The score distributions covered the entire range of possible scores, and the central tendencies and dispersions confirmed the presence of enough variation to detect differences in functional impairment among individuals. Correlations between the UAB Scale and other asthma-related measures support construct validity. All of these results support the potential usefulness of the UAB Scale.
Organic solar cells from water-soluble poly (thiophene)/fullerene heterojunction

We report the characteristics of solar cells with a heterojunction structure con-taining water-soluble polythiophene and a fullerene (C60) (indium tin oxide/sodium poly[2-(3-thienyl)-ethoxy-4-butylsulfonate] (PTEBS:Na+)∕C60∕2,9-dimethyl-4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline/Al). The devices show that the PTEBS:Na+ layer acts as an electron donor and the photovoltaic effect is dominated by the PTEBS:Na+∕C60 interface. By post-device-fabrication treatment through the application of a positive bias, the devices show a short-circuit current density exceeding 0.97±0.02mA∕cm2, an open-circuit voltage of 0.67±0.02V, a fill factor of 0.53±0.02, and a power conversion efficiency of 0.43±0.02% at AM 1.5 solar illumination (80mW∕cm2).
A mechanistic model for fatigue damage evolution in composite laminates

We propose a mechanistic model which is capable of describing the evolution of transverse cracking in cross ply laminates subjected to cyclic tension in the longitudinal direction. The key feature of the model is that it incorporates delamination associated with transverse cracks in a manner that induces further formation of transverse cracks as delamination grows in fatigue. A variational approach is taken to estimate the stresses in the region between transverse cracks, and these are found to be accurate away from the crack planes when comparison is made with finite element computations. The evolution of transverse crack density and the associated overall elastic moduli changes predicted by the model are in agreement with experimental results.
1,25-Bihydroxycholecalciferol: The metabolite of vitamin D responsible for increased intestinal calcium transport

Abstract 1,25-Dihydroxycholecalciferol was prepared from [26,27-3H]-25-hydroxycholecalciferol and from [1,2-3H]-25-hydroxycholecalciferol enzymatically and purified chromatographically. Injection of 62.5 pmoles of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol intravenously into vitamin D-deficient chicks resulted in the accumulation of a maximum of 5.9% of the dose in the intestine. During the 12 hr period following injection, this radioactivity was found almost entirely as 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol. It has previously been shown that intestinal calcium absorption is initiated by 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol during this period. These results provide strong evidence that the 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol is not metabolized further before it initiates intestinal calcium absorption.
Poisson Ratio of Epitaxial Germanium Films Grown on Silicon

An accurate knowledge of elastic constants of thin films is important in understanding the effect of strain on material properties. We have used residual thermal strain to measure the Poisson ratio of Ge films grown on Si ⟨001⟩ substrates, using the sin2ψ method and high-resolution x-ray diffraction. The Poisson ratio of the Ge films was measured to be 0.25, compared with the bulk value of 0.27. Our study indicates that use of Poisson ratio instead of bulk compliance values yields a more accurate description of the state of in-plane strain present in the film.
Development of a behavioral observation technique for the assessment of pain behaviors in cancer patients

The present study assessed the reliability and validity of a behavioral observation technique designed to assess pain behaviors in cancer patients. Data supported the reliability of the procedure in that the level of interobserver agreement was quite acceptable. The validity of the technique was supported in that the pain behavior scores correlated significantly, as predicted, with the Sickness Impact Profile-Physical Scale and the Global Adjustment to Illness Scale, but not with the Sickness Impact Profile-Psychosocial Scale. Pain behavior scores and ratings of pain intensity, as measured on a visual analogue scale, were not significantly correlated. Additional support for the construct validity of the measure was provided in that nurses' and students' judgments of pain intensity correlated highly with pain behavior scores. Therefore, the behavioral observation method holds promise as a reliable, valid measure of pain behavior in a cancer pain population.
Hydride Generation Laser-Induced Fluorescence of Arsenic and Selenium in the Inductively Coupled Plasma and Electrothermal Atomizer

The application of hydride generation (HG) sample introduction combined with laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection in the inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and electrothermal atomizer (ETA) is reported. Far-ultraviolet excitation of As at 193.696 nm and Se at 196.026 nm is accomplished by using a tunable dye laser system with frequency doubling and stimulated Raman scattering. HG-ICP-LIF and HG-ETA-LIF techniques have been developed and demonstrate good sensitivity and good linearity at the ng/mL to sub-ng/mL level for both elements. The relative standard deviation of replicate measurements is on the order of 3-10% at the 5 ng/mL level for the HG-ICP-LIF technique and 5-35% at the 0.6 ng/mL level for the HG-ETA-LIF technique. Detection limits of 1 ng/mL (5 ng absolute mass) for As and 0.06 ng/mL (0.3 ng) for Se are reported for the HG-ICP-LIF technique and 0.04 ng/mL (0.2 ng) for As and 0.16 ng/mL (0.8 ng) for Se are reported for the HG-ETA-LIF technique. Lower than expected sensitivity and precision are observed in the ETA, which may be due to inefficient trapping of the hydrides in the procedure. Selective HG procedures have been demonstrated for the speciation and recovery of selected oxidation states of As and Se. The analytical capabilities of the HG-LIF techniques are compared to those of other HG techniques, and recommendations are made for improved performance of future HG-LIF approaches.
Estrogen and Postnatal Maturation Increase Caveolar Number and Caveolin-1 Protein in Bladder Smooth Muscle Cells

ABSTRACTPurpose: Clinical studies indicate that detrusor contractility decreases in old age and the dense band pattern with caveolar depletion represents the ultrastructural norm of the aged human detrusor. We performed animal studies to explore the hypothesis that lowering estrogen induces the dense band pattern with estrogen replacement restoring usual sarcolemmal appearance and increasing caveolar number.Materials and Methods: Newborn, young (1-month-old) and middle-aged (13 to 14-month-old) female rats were studied. Middle-aged animals were evaluated 4 months after sham operation or ovariectomy (OVx) with OVx rats receiving placebo or 25% 17β-estradiol (E2) capsules for 1 week prior to sacrifice. Electron microscopy was used to evaluate sarcolemmal structure and quantify caveolar numbers in bladder muscle cells. Caveolae were also assessed by measuring caveolin-1 protein.Results: Alternating electron dense and thinner zones with abundant caveolae were present in bladder sarcolemma from middle-aged ani...
Australasian interest in the Commerce and the Sovereignty of Hawaii

(1965). Australasian interest in the Commerce and the Sovereignty of Hawaii. Historical Studies: Australia and New Zealand: Vol. 11, No. 44, pp. 499-512.
Soccer and national culture: estimating the impact of violence on 22 lads after a ball

Sports have been recently conceptualized as an effective tool for development. Questioning that argument, recent evidence suggests that the practice of soccer reveals national cultures of violence prevailing in players’ countries of origin. We model violent behaviour in the soccer pitch as a function of game specific controls as well as socioeconomic, political, cultural and conflict variables characterizing players’ home countries. We construct a database for the Latin American 2008 Libertadores Cup Competition and find that across multiple specifications and estimating techniques, only game specific variables determine sanctions to violent actions. There are three compatible explanations for this result: highly skilled soccer players may not be representative average citizens; violent conflicts may not necessarily cause a violent culture affecting all corners of society; and even when violent cultures are transmitted to individual players, those values do not condition significantly their behaviour duri...
Self-similar intermediate asymptotics for nonlinear degenerate parabolic free-boundary problems that occur in image processing.

In the boundary layers around the edges of images, basic nonlinear parabolic equations for image intensity used in image processing assume a special degenerate asymptotic form. An asymptotic self-similar solution to this degenerate equation is obtained in an explicit form. The solution reveals a substantially nonlinear effect—the formation of sharp steps at the edges of the images, leading to edge enhancement. Positions of the steps and the time shift parameter cannot be determined by direct construction of a self-similar solution; they depend on the initial condition of the pre-self-similar solution. The free-boundary problem is formulated describing the image intensity evolution in the boundary layer.