cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dimensional growth and extracellular matrix accumulation by neonatal rat mandibular condyles in long‐term culture

Mandibular condyles in organ culture commonly have been used as a model system for examination of the factors that influence skeletal growth and development. The work reported here complements previously published histological studies by providing quantitative temporal information on growth and matrix accumulation. Condyles maintained for as long as 5 weeks in serum-free and 1% serum-supplemented culture media were found to remain viable and metabolically active as demonstrated by continued dimensional growth as well as cell and matrix accumulation. Growth occurred by a combination of cell proliferation, matrix synthesis and accumulation, and cell hypertrophy (with the latter two mechanisms dominating). Increases in tissue volume correlated directly with increased glycosaminoglycan content; both increased 7-fold over 5 weeks. In comparison with serum-free culture, after 35 days in medium containing 1% serum, glycosaminoglycan content was 24% lower and collagen content was 36% higher, whereas dry weight, condyle length, and DNA content were not significantly different; in addition, histological observation suggested that, for samples cultured with serum, chondrogenic phenotype had been lost from some regions. The temporal behavior for all growth parameters exhibited a transient phase 1-2 weeks in duration followed by a steady-state period in which dimensions and tissue constituents or content increased at a constant or near constant rate. Comparison of the rates of incorporation of [35S]sulfate with glycosaminoglycan content in serum-free cultures suggests that the loss of glycosaminoglycan occurs only initially or is negligible; therefore, under these baseline conditions, cartilage glycosaminoglycan content reflects the biosynthetic rate. The high degree of reproducibility seen during steady-state growth suggests that these data provide reliable baseline information and further supports the notion that this model system is useful for investigation of the effects of specific physical factors on in vitro growth and development.
An Axial-Airgap, Variable-Speed, Eddy-Current Motor

A twin-stator, axial-airgap, variable-speed, eddy- current motor is described. The speed of this motor can be continuously varied by mechanically shifting one stator with respect to the other. Results of tests performed on the motor are reported, and, based on electromagnetic field theory, an approximate analysis is presented. The speed-torque characteristics obtained from theory are compared with those obtained experimentally.
Observation of the ultrafast two-photon coherent biexciton oscillation in a GaAs / Al x Ga 1 − x As multiple quantum well

Polarization-dependent heterodyne four-wave-mixing measurements with a phase-conjugate Michelson interferometer reveal a macroscopic nonradiative 770-THz oscillation in the nonlinear optical susceptibility of GaAs multiple quantum wells. The oscillation is interpreted as the temporal evolution of the two-photon nonradiative biexcitonic coherence.
An Analysis of Judicial Attitudes in the Labor Relations Decisions of the Warren Court

ONE OF THE MAJOR AREAS OF SUPREME COURT decision-making is labor relations. Excluding Federal Employers Liability Act and Jones Act cases, approximately 13% of the cases decided formally1 during the 1953-1959 terms of the Court involved matters relating to labor relations. Included within this universe, totaling 93 cases, are items evoking a wide range of legal questions. Among them are: the interpretation of various provisions of such major legislation as the National Labor Relations, Taft-Hartley, Railway Labor, Norris-LaGuardia, and Fair Labor Standards Acts; questions of N.L.R.B. procedure and jurisdiction, federal pre-emption of state jurisdiction, and unfair labor practices. Notwithstanding this congeries of legal material, it is nonetheless possible that the Court, in its disposition of these cases, may be motivated by considerations other that those of a legal character. It is the purpose of this paper to ascertain the bases on which the Court decided these cases; how the various justices respond to the value or values underlying the Court's decision-making; and the decisional and attitudinal effects of such secondary variables as may
Acetone Odor and Irritation Thresholds Obtained From Acetone-Exposed Factory Workers and From Control (Occupationally Unexposed) Subjects

Sensitivity of olfaction (smell) and chemesthesis (irritation) was evaluated for 2-propanone (acetone) and 1-butanol in acetone-exposed workers (AEW; N = 32) during a workday and unexposed subjects (μES; N = 32). Irritation sensitivity was assessed using a method that relies on the ability of individuals to localize irritants on the body. When a volatile compound is inhaled into one nostril and air into the other, the stimulated side can be determined (lateralized) only after the concentration reaches a level that stimulates the trigeminal nerve (irritation); compounds stimulating olfaction alone cannot be lateralized. Intranasal lateralization thresholds offer an objective measure of sensory irritation elicited by volatile compounds. Test results indicated that neither olfactory nor lateralization thresholds for butanol differed between AEW and μES. Olfactory thresholds to acetone in AEW (855 ppm) were elevated relative to those of μES (41 ppm), as were lateralization thresholds (36,669 ppm and 15,758 pp...
Infrared spectra of carbohydrates in water and a new measure of mutarotation.

Abstract The infrared spectra of various carbohydrates in water have been recorded and found to be characteristic of each compound. Infrared techniques have been used to determine mutarotation constants of α- d -glucose, β- d -glucose and β- d -mannose. Absorbance values at a constant characteristic wavelength were observed as they changed with time; and were applied in an equation previously used in polarimetric determinations of the mutarotation constants. The mutarotation constants determined by the infrared method were in good agreement with those determined polarimetrically.
Nuclear structure effects in bremsstrahlung

Abstract The cross section for bremsstrahlung is calculated in the Born approximation, taking into account the emission by the nucleus of the bremsstrahlung photon, as well as the emission of the bremsstrahlung photon by the electron. The formal results, which are expressed in terms of various form factors, are applicable to an arbitrary nucleus. Nuclear matrix elements for the specific case of 16 O are evaluated in the long wavelength limit, using the j − j coupling particle- hole model. Excited states included in evaluating the summations over intermediate nuclear states are limited to one-particle, one-hole configurations coupled by electric dipole transitions to the ground state. Effects in the bremsstrahlung spectrum due to the intrinsic structure of the 16 O nucleus are found to be strikingly apparent, at least in the coincidence arrangement in which scattered electron and photon are observed simultaneously, in the form of peaks superimposed on the background from electron bremsstrahlung. The relative magnitude of the nuclear effects depends strongly on the scattering angles and on the photon energy, essentially a resonance effect, and varies over a wide range from one nuclear level to another.
Ethylene Oligomerization and Propylene Dimerization Using Cationic (α-Diimine)nickel(II) Catalysts

Nickel-catalyzed ethylene oligomerization and propylene dimerization reactions are described. A series of aryl-substituted α-diimine ligands 1 (ArNC(R)C(R)NAr, R,R ≡ 1,8-naphth-diyl, Ar ≡ XC6H4, X = p-CF3 (a), p-H (b), p-Me (c), p-OMe (d), o-Me (e)) and their corresponding Ni(II) dibromide complexes 2 were prepared. Treatment of the Ni(II) dibromide complexes 2 with aluminum alkyl activators such as MAO (methylalumoxane), modified MAO (MMAO), or Et2AlCl in toluene generates active cationic catalysts in situ that oligomerize ethylene to a Schulz−Flory distribution of linear α-olefins. Reaction conditions can be adjusted that lead to selectivities as high as 96% for linear α-olefins. These catalysts are highly active, with ethylene turnover frequencies as high as 1.4 × 105 mol of C2H4/((mol of Ni)h) observed. Schulz−Flory α values range from 0.59 to 0.81 and are dependent on the reaction temperature, ethylene pressure, and nature of the aluminum cocatalyst. The active catalysts dimerize propylene, generatin...
Bringing the Polluters Back In: Environmental Inequality and the Organization of Chemical Production

Environmental justice scholars have suggested that because chemical plants and other hazardous facilities emit more pollutants where they face the least resistance, disadvantaged communities face a special health risk. In trying to determine whether race or income has the bigger impact on a neighborhood's exposure to pollution, however, scholars tend to overlook the facilities themselves and the effect of their characteristics on emissions. In particular, how do the characteristics of facilities and their surrounding communities jointly shape pollution outcomes? We propose a new line of environmental justice research that focuses on facilities and how their features combine with communities' features to create dangerous emissions. Using novel fuzzy-set analysis techniques and the EPA's newly developed Risk-Screening Environmental Indicators, we test the influence of facility and community factors on chemical plants' health-threatening emissions. Contrary to the idea that community characteristics have singular, linear effects, findings show that facility and community factors combine in a variety of ways to produce risky emissions. We speculate that as chemical firms experiment with different ways of producing goods and externalizing pollution costs, new "recipes of risk" are likely to emerge. The question, then, will no longer be whether race or income matters most, but in which of these recipes do they matter and how.
Technology insight: Applications of tissue engineering and biological substitutes in urology.

Technology Insight: applications of tissue engineering and biological substitutes in urology
A statistical model of proton binding by humus

Abstract A model that considers both the carboxyl and weakly acidic groups of humus as continuous binding site distributions in which individual ligand concentrations are normally distributed with respect to the log K values for proton binding is proposed. The concentration, mean log K value, and variance for the log K distribution of each class of functional groups are estimated by nonlinear regression analysis of titration data. The values obtained for those parameters are chemically reasonable and the extent of proton binding between pH 4.0 and pH 10.8 is accurately described by the model.
The use of hierarchies as organizational models in systematics

A hierarchy is an abstract organizational model of inter-level relationships among entities. When isomorphic with nature, hierarchies are useful for organizing and manipulating our knowledge. Hierarchies have been used in biological systematics to represent several distinct, but interrelated, facets of the evolution of life with different organizational properties, and these distinctions have been confused by the rubric «thehierarchy of life». Evolution, as descent with modification, is inherently dualistic. The organizational structure of a hierarchy can be used to represent dualistic properties as inter-level relationships. Cladistics is monistic, with a singular focus on patterns of descent. Descent has conceptual priority over modification, but the organizational relationship is not exclusive. «Cladistic classification» is an oxymoron because cladistics lacks the class concepts needed to construct a classification, a point recognized by those who suggest abandoning Linnaean classification in favour of a newly devised monophyletic systematization. Cladistic analysis of descent can be supplemented with an analysis of modification that provides the class concepts needed to construct an evolutionary/phylogenetic classification. When a strong monophyletic pattern of modification is detected (in addition to its monophyletic pattern of descent), the criterion of subsequent modification provides the basis for formally recognizing a certain monophyletic group at a given rank, as opposed to a group that is one node more inclusive or one node less. The criterion of subsequent modification also permits detection of strong paraphyletic patterns of modification, when they exist. By setting standards of evidence needed to recognize paraphyletic groups, one concomitantly strengthens the basis for formally recognizing selective monophyletic groups.
Poisoning due to calcium antagonists. Experience with verapamil, diltiazem and nifedipine

The calcium antagonists are a heterogeneous class of drugs which block the inward movement of calcium into cells through 'slow channels' from extracellular sites. By inhibiting phase 0 depolarisation in cardiac pacemaker cells and phase 2 plateau in myocardium, and by depressing calcium ion flux in smooth muscle cells of blood vessels, these agents may exert profound effects on the cardiovascular system, particularly in susceptible individuals or in overdose. Sinus node depression, impaired atrioventricular (AV) conduction, depressed myocardial contractility, and peripheral vasodilatation may result. Pharmacokinetic features of calcium antagonists include rapid and complete absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, with extensive first-pass hepatic metabolism yielding generally low bioavailability. The volume of distribution is generally large and protein binding is high. Elimination is almost entirely by the liver. Impaired renal function does not affect pharmacokinetics. Verapamil is the most potent inhibitor of cardiac conduction and contractility, with diltiazem also showing such effects. Nifedipine is the most potent vasodilator, but only occasionally impairs the sinus node or AV conduction. Significant pharmacodynamic effects are common during combination therapy with calcium antagonists, especially verapamil and beta-blockers. Verapamil may significantly elevate serum digoxin concentrations and may exert additive negative effects on chronotropism and dromotropism when this combination is used. Overdoses of calcium entry blockers are becoming more frequent and reflect an extension of the known pharmacodynamic profile of these agents. Typical features include confusion or lethargy, hypotension, sinus node depression and cardiac conduction defects. Onset of symptoms may be delayed if a sustained release preparation is ingested. Management of calcium antagonist overdose includes gut decontamination with lavage and activated charcoal. All symptomatic patients and patients with a history of ingesting a sustained release preparation should be admitted for ECG monitoring. If bradycardia and/or conduction defects contribute to hypotension, atropine or isoprenaline (isoproterenol) may accelerate the ventricular rate. Transvenous pacing may be required. Depressed myocardial contractility usually responds well to calcium chloride or calcium gluconate administration, but further inotropic support may be required. Peripheral vasodilation should be managed with intravenous fluids and a pressor agent such as dopamine or norepinephrine (noradrenaline).
Quality of Life and Living With HIV/AIDS in Cambodia

This qualitative study was designed to explore the unique meanings people living with HIV/AIDS in Cambodia attach to quality of life (QoL). Open-ended interview questions guided the interview process. Analysis of data revealed the following themes: ability to maintain life functioning, describing QoL before getting sick and current hardships; isolation and the desire for connection with others, describing how perceived stigmatization, discrimination, and alienation affect QoL; anticipating the future, describing fears about future QoL; and reflection, describing the effect of vulnerable relationships and regrets on QoL. For the participants of this study, secrets and silence, selective disclosure, living in the present, and hopefulness were means of promoting achievement of QoL outcomes of being able to meet basic needs, having a sense of belonging, and having a safe and caring connection with others.
Only One of Five groEL Genes Is Required for Viability and Successful Symbiosis in Sinorhizobium meliloti

Many bacterial species contain multiple copies of the genes that encode the chaperone GroEL and its cochaperone, GroES, including all of the fully sequenced root-nodulating bacteria that interact symbiotically with legumes to generate fixed nitrogen. In particular, in Sinorhizobium meliloti there are four groESL operons and one groEL gene. To uncover functional redundancies of these genes during growth and symbiosis, we attempted to construct strains containing all combinations of groEL mutations. Although a double groEL1 groEL2 mutant cannot be constructed, we demonstrate that the quadruple groEL1 groESL3 groEL4 groESL5 and groEL2 groESL3 groEL4 groESL5 mutants are viable. Therefore, like E. coli and other species, S. meliloti requires only one groEL gene for viability, and either groEL1 or groEL2 will suffice. The groEL1 groESL5 double mutant is more severely affected for growth at both 30°C and 40°C than the single mutants, suggesting overlapping functions in stress response. During symbiosis the quadruple groEL2 groESL3 groEL4 groESL5 mutant acts like the wild type, but the quadruple groEL1 groESL3 groEL4 groESL5 mutant acts like the groEL1 single mutant, which cannot fully induce nod gene expression and forms ineffective nodules. Therefore, the only groEL gene required for symbiosis is groEL1. However, we show that the other groE genes are expressed in the nodule at lower levels, suggesting minor roles during symbiosis. Combining our data with other data, we conclude that groESL1 encodes the housekeeping GroEL/GroES chaperone and that groESL5 is specialized for stress response.
Two Kinds of Self-Knowledge

I argue that a variety of influential accounts of self-knowledge are flawed by the assumption that all immediate, authoritative knowledge of our own present mental states is of one basic kind. I claim, on the contrary, that a satisfactory account of self-knowledge must recognize at least two fundamentally different kinds of self-knowledge: an active kind through which we know our own judgments, and a passive kind through which we know our sensations. I show that the former kind of self-knowledge is in an important sense fundamental, since it is intimately connected with the very capacity for rational reflection, and since it must be present in any creature that understands the first-person pronoun. Moreover, I suggest that these thoughts about self-knowledge have a Kantian provenance.
Teacher Attitudes toward Environmental Education

(1980). Teacher Attitudes toward Environmental Education. The Journal of Environmental Education: Vol. 11, No. 2, pp. 18-23.
The Ethnic Composition of Science and Engineering Research Laboratories in the United States

The United States has been a top destination country for science and engineering (S&E) graduate education for foreign talent for many years. Despite the clear existence of foreign students in the USA, relatively little is known about the factors influencing the flow of foreign students. In this study, we examine foreign doctoral students in science and engineering, and test whether “ethnic affinity” plays a role in the ethnic composition of research laboratories (in what follows, “labs”) in US universities. In order to test this hypothesis, we conduct a web search, and select 164 science and engineering laboratory web pages for analysis. Among these 164 labs, 82 are directed by foreign-born faculty (Korean, Chinese, Indian or Turkish). These 82 are matched with labs that are in the same department of the same university, but directed by a native (US origin) faculty member. We find strong evidence that labs directed by foreign-born faculty are more likely to be populated by students from the same country of origin than are labs directed by native faculty. The percentage of students working in a lab from a nationality (foreign or native) is higher when they share nativity with the director. We seek to draw attention to the effect of affinity on the ethnic composition of research labs at the micro level that translates into the ethnic composition of the scientific community at the macro level. Further, these results emphasize the role of lab directors in future enrolments, creating scientific human capital, and contributing to the “brain circulation” phenomenon in the global context.
The development of a simplified cross-bar mixer operating at Ka-band

Many receivers operating at millimetre wavelengths utilise a frequency downconverter as their first stage. A rugged, low-conversion loss and simplified cross-bar mixer operating at the atmospheric window centered at 33 GHz was designed, developed and tested as a forerunner to mixers operating at atmospheric windows centred at higher frequencies. The cross-bar mixer exhibits a conversion loss of less than 5 dB over a bandwidth of 2 GHz. Design and optimisation procedures of the mixer are outlined.
Observation of a new sound-attenuation peak in superfluid /sup 3/He-B

Results of zero-sound attenuation measurements in $^{3}\mathrm{He}$-$B$, at frequencies up to 60 MHz and pressures between 0 and 20 bars, are reported. At frequencies of 30 MHz and above, a new attenuation feature is observed which bears the signature of a collective mode of the superfluid.
A Two-Photon Optically Pumped Molecular Gas Visible Laser

Recent investigations of the multiphoton ionization (MPI) spectrum of gaseous ammonia have led to the discovery of a novel two-photon pumped molecular gas electronic transition laser. Resonant, two-photon electronic excitation of NH3 in the near uv (~305 nm) leads to the first observation of fluorescence from NH3 excited states (B and C'), and, at higher pressures, to lasing action (~570 nm) between numerous C' and A state vibronic levels. A frequency-doubled Nd:YAG pumped dye laser (a few mJ) is focused into a cell containing NH3 (or ND3). Stimulated emission is observed in the forward and backward direction at NH3 pressures greater than -200 torr, without external mirrors to provide feedback. Conversion efficiencies (output NH3 pulse energy/input pulse energy) as high as 2% have been observed.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Field applications of the second‐generation Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) for remote detection of harmful algae: 2006‐2007

We assess the application of the second-generation Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) for the detection of harmful algal bloom (HAB) species in field and laboratory settings using two molecular probe techniques: a sandwich hybridization assay (SHA) and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). During spring 2006, the first time this new instrument was deployed, the ESP successfully automated application of DNA probe arrays for various HAB species and other planktonic taxa, but non-specific background binding on the SHA probe array support made results interpretation problematic. Following 2006, the DNA array support membrane that we were using was replaced with a different membrane, and the SHA chemistry was adjusted. The sensitivity and dynamic range of these modifications were assessed using 96-well plate and ESP array SHA formats for several HAB species found commonly in Monterey Bay over a range of concentrations; responses were significantly correlated (p < 0.01). Modified arrays were deployed in 2007. Compared to 2006, probe arrays showed improved signal:noise, and remote detection of various HAB species was demonstrated. We confirmed that the ESP and affiliated assays can detect HAB populations at levels below those posing human health concerns, and results can be related to prevailing environmental conditions in near real-time.
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR UNDERSTANDING ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT

This exhortation for increased research on organizational conflict focuses upon three concerns: (1) conceptualizing it as a useful variable, (2) demonstrating its critical role in building both org...
Ni–Mo Nanopowders for Efficient Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution

Earth-abundant metals are attractive alternatives to the noble metal composite catalysts that are used in water electrolyzers based on proton-exchange membrane technology. Ni–Mo alloys have been previously developed for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), but synthesis methods to date have been limited to formation of catalyst coatings directly on a substrate. We report a method for generating unsupported nanopowders of Ni–Mo, which can be suspended in common solvents and cast onto arbitrary substrates. The mass-specific catalytic activity under alkaline conditions approaches that of the most active reported non-noble HER catalysts, and the coatings display good stability under alkaline conditions. We have also estimated turnover frequencies per surface atom at various overpotentials and conclude that the activity enhancement for Ni–Mo relative to pure Ni is due to a combination of increased surface area and increased fundamental catalytic activity.
Multiproduct Search and the Joint Search Effect

Abstract This paper presents a sequential search model where consumers look for several products from multiproduct firms. Multiproduct search can significantly influence firms' pricing decisions. For example, it can make market prices decrease with search costs. Possible applications of the model are also discussed. (JEL D11, D43, D83)
Observations on designing a computer science Curriculum focusing on game programming using testimonials from industry leaders

The 2008 ACM/IEEE Curriculum Report section 5.4.2 mentions a “Focus on games or entertainment software” as one method of organizing a computer science curriculum. But outside of using games as a methodology for teaching standard computer science, it is also worth considering whether the techniques taught actually transition to the games industry. This paper will explain the IEEE standard for a computer science curriculum, and then compare those milestones with what the games industry wants using interviews with game professionals who are responsible for hiring decisions at top companies.
Comment on “Physical limits to quantum flux parametron operation”

Abstract Goto et al. claim that for the quantum flux parametron “there is no minimum dissipation per step even for logically irreversible computation”. In actual fact, Goto et al. embed an irreversible operation in a more complex reversible operation.
Switching kinetics of 180° domains in congruent LiNbO3 and LiTaO3 crystals

Abstract We present a systematic study of the switching and stabilization times of 180° domains in congruent z-cut LiNbO3 and LiTaO3 crystals. The domains were reversed by the application of an electric field, and the kinetics studied for the first reversal of a virgin crystal (denoted as forward poling, or, f) and the second reversal back to its original state (denoted as reverse poling, or, r) at room temperature. The switching time, t shows an exponential behavior with field as t=t0exp[δ/(E±Eint)], where the − sign in the exponential is for forward poling, and + sign for reverse poling. The internal field, Eint, parallel to the ferroelectric polarization in a virgin crystal, was measured as 41.2 kV/cm for LiTaO3 and 22.2 kV/cm for LiNbO3. We also showed that there exists a minimum pulse width of the applied field below which the 180° domains created by the field are unstable and show reversible wall motion. This stabilization time was measured as 1.4–2 s for LiTaO3 and only 10–30 ms for LiNbO3 in forward poling geometry. We present evidence that the internal field and the domain stabilization mechanisms are correlated.
218: A Retrospective Study on the Mortality of Bone Marrow Transplant Recipients with Severe Acute Kidney Injury

NEPHROTIC PROTEINURIA IN ADPKD A CLINICAL CHALLENGE. Prabodh Ranjan, H Magoo, EH Anjum, C Desai, D Baumstein, A Chaudhari, AM Tannenberg, Metropolitan Hospital Center, NewYork Medical College,NY. In autosomal polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) the protein excretion is generally less than 1g/24h and the association with the nephrotic range proteinuria is considered rare. We describe a patient of ADPKD with nephrotic range proteinuria, who exhibited rapid progression to ESRD. A 52 years old nonsmoker male with ADPKD and controlled hypertension developed nephrotic range proteinuria with rapid progression to ESRD. The patient was first found to have nephrotic range proteinuria in October 2002, with BUN of 35mg/dl and serum creatinine (SCr) of 2.5mg/dl. His 24hour urine protein and creatinine were 3.4gms and 1.8gms respectively. The serological workup including ANA, Hep C antibody, HBsAg and HBsAb were negative with normal complements. His renal ultrasound revealed multiple cysts in both the kidneys with right and left renal size of 24.9 x10.9cms and 21.5 x 10.5 cms respectively. Noticeably, five of his brothers have ADPKD and two already had renal transplant. The patient was started on maximum dose of ACEinhibitor. Despite the control of hypertension with ACEinhibitor and use of statins, the renal function (BUN/SCr 66/10 mg/dl) deteriorated rapidly over five years to present need for renal replacement therapy. Nephrotic range proteinuria is rare in ADPKD and its presence is considered mostly coincidental. Almost every form of glomerulopathy has been reported in ADPKD with the higher frequency of FSGS. In ADPKD, the renal function does not decrease at a constant rate between birth and ESRD but remain well preserved for many years; however, nephrotic range proteinuria accelerates its course, as it was observed in our case. Higher complications and technical difficulty precludes renal biopsy in ADPKD. Under these circumstances, Can a trial of steroid be helpful in delaying the progression to ESRD? The question is yet to be answered.
Yield losses in winter grains caused by cereal aphids (Homoptera: Aphididae) in South Dakota.

Yield losses in ‘Rough Rider’ winter wheat, Triticum aestivum L., and ‘Cougar’ winter rye, Secale cereale L., caused by feeding of Schizaphis graminum (Rondani), Rhopalosiphum padi (L.), and Macrosiphum avenae (F.) were each measured for 3 yr in South Dakota fields. Caged plots were artificially colonized with aphids for 10 d when plants were in three different growth stages; losses in components of yield were measured at harvest. Greatest losses of yield were caused when aphids fed during the seedling (2-3 leaf) stage in autumn; mean densities of 25-30 aphids per stem caused reductions of 50% in some components of yield at this stage. Lower yield losses were recorded for similar aphid population densities when they fed in spring during the boot stage (immature in florescence invested in leaf sheath), and no losses were observed when aphids fed on mature (dough stage) plants. Schizaphis graminum and R. padi were more damaging than M. avenae at similar population densities. Winter wheat was more vulnerable than rye to yield losses caused by aphid feeding.
Changes in Maternal Weight 5–10 Years after a First Delivery:

Aim: The objective of this study was to identify maternal, obstetrical and reproductive factors associated with long-term changes in maternal weight after delivery. Materials & methods: Participants were enrolled in a longitudinal cohort study of maternal health 5–10 years after childbirth. Data were obtained from obstetrical records and a self-administered questionnaire. Weight at the time of first delivery (5–10 years prior) was obtained retrospectively and each woman’s weight at the time of her first delivery was compared with her current weight. Results: Among 948 women, obesity was associated with race, parity, education, history of diabetes and history of cesarean at the time of first delivery. On average, the difference between weight at the time of first delivery and weight 5–10 years later was -11 kg (11 kg weight loss). In a multivariate model, black race and diabetes were associated with significantly less weight loss. Cesarean delivery, parity and breastfeeding were not associated with changes...
Assessment of a computer game for teaching architectural energy efficiency

This paper discusses the assessment of an interactive computer simulation game used to teach energy-efficient strategies for cold-climate design in commercial buildings. The paper first provides an overview of the game and in doing so discusses the background, methodology, and concepts used in designing the game. The greater content of the paper addresses an assessment of the data collected during an experimental test of the effectiveness of this game versus traditional learning methods. It concludes with a section that reviews the results of the experiment and makes recommendations for future directions of research in this area.
Grain boundary diffusion of liquid metal coolants in optical materials for use with high power synchrotron radiation

Abstract A major concern in the design of high-flux X-ray beam lines is heat dissipation in the first optical element, especially if that element must operate in ultrahigh vacuum. In considering methods of cooling, it is generally desirable to achieve good thermal contact over a large area, without introducing stress or vibration into the optical element, or hindering its motion for optical alignment. A method which has been considered by several groups employs a low vapor pressure liquid metal to provide stress-free thermal coupling of the optical element to a heat sink. The eutectic alloy of Ga-In seems attractive for this purpose in many respects. It is liquid at room temperature, yet has an extraordinary low vapor pressure, essentially unmeasurable at room temperature and less than 10−12 Torr at 300°C. However, the liquid metal reacts quickly and destructively with aluminium and its alloys, materials extremely useful in the manufacture of optical elements. The reaction propagates via grain boundary diffusion, and subsequent intermetallic reactions and embrittlement destroy the aluminum. The Ga-In eutectic reacts to a lesser degree with other materials such as copper and silicon, while materials such as silicon carbide, nickel, and 304 stainless steel appear relatively resistant to attack in the absence of stress.
The local and non-local components of the local field potential in awake primate visual cortex

The Local Field Potential (LFP) is the analog signal recorded from a microelectrode inserted into cortex, typically in the frequency band of approximately 1 to 200 Hz. Here visual stimuli were flashed on in the receptive fields of primary visual cortical neurons in awake behaving macaques, and both isolated single units (neurons) and the LFP signal were recorded from the same unipolar microelectrode. The fall-off of single unit activity as a visual stimulus was moved from near the center to near the edge of the receptive field paralleled the fall-off of the stimulus-locked (evoked) LFP response. This suggests that the evoked LFP strongly reflects local neuronal activity. However, the evoked LFP could be significant even when the visual stimulus was completely outside the receptive field and the single unit response had fallen to zero, although this phenomenon was variable. Some of the non-local components of the LFP may be related to the slow distributed, or non-retinotopic, LFP signal previously observed in anesthetized animals. The induced (not time-locked to stimulus onset) component of the LFP showed significant increases only for stimuli within the receptive field of the single units. While the LFP primarily reflects local neuronal activity, it can also reflect neuronal activity at more distant sites, although these non-local components are typically more variable, slower, and weaker than the local components.
A body must have flesh and bones.

I agree with the gist of Staddon's message, as I agree with Branch's (1992). But, just as "one finds God in the details," there also lurks the devil. Exhortations concerning research methods are about as effective in changing behavior as Sunday sermons. But we finish both feeling improved; and although a good model, either from the laboratory or from life, is more efficacious, talk is cheaper. Here's my two bits.
Monitoring and Forecasting Methods for Codling Moth Management in the United States and Canada

With the renewed emphasis on integrated control in fruit growing, new monitoring and forecasting methods had to be developed to achieve efficient and economical but less disruptive codling moth control. Attractant traps for monitoring adults have long been in use; pheromone traps are a recent addition. They allow for easy monitoring of moth populations but interpreting the significance of catches remains difficult. Pheromone trap catches have been correlated with the seasonal phenology and with estimates of fruit injury. In the United States and Canada critical catch levels below which no treatments are advised have been determined. In addition, new forecasting methods are being developed which include simple physiological-time tables, phenological models and « strategic » population models. Computer-based information delivery systems allow access to these models from the field. It is too early to assess the total impact of these new monitoring and forecasting programs on control practices. Aux Etats-Unis, les systemes de lutte integree suscitent un inter& croissant. Dans les vergers, toute approche dans ce sens requiert un affinement des methodes de recensement des populations de carpocapse des pommes et des poires, de mbme qu'une amelioration des previsions. Depuis longtemps, plusieurs types de pieges attractifs ont ete utilises, mais les pieges a pheromones sont d'introduction recente. Ceux-ci permettent de reveler d'une facon remarquable I'activite des populations, alors que I'interpretation de la signification economique des captures demeure difficile. Aux Etats-Unis et au Canada, il a ete possible d'etablir une relation entre les captures realisees a I'aide de pheromones et les degsts observes sur fruits. Ceci a permis d'etablir des seuils critiques au-dessous desquels il n'est pas: recommande de recourir a une mesure de protection. Parallelement au developpement de tables de survie, de modeles phenologiques et stratkgiques, il a ete etabli un systeme d'information par ordinateurs. I1 est encore trop tat pour evaluer la valeur de ces nouveaux elements.
Art in the Age of Political Correctness: Race in the TEAM's Architecting

The TEAM's award-winning play Architecting is primarily about the reconstruction of the South during the Civil War and after Hurricane Katrina. Through Architecting, the TEAM, an all-white theatre company, comments on American race relations by engaging in an ethical performance of blackness.
Performance Variability of a 90GHz Static CML Frequency Divider in 65nm SOI CMOS

A static CML divide-by-2 frequency divider is integrated in 65nm SOI CMOS. The maximum operating frequency is 90GHz while dissipating 52.4mW. The self-oscillation frequency is 92GHz with 0.57pJ switching energy. Measurement of self-oscillation frequency at multiple bias conditions enables estimation of the variation in threshold voltage, capacitance, and resistance.
Choice of venous cannulation for bypass during repair of traumatic rupture of the aorta.

Abstract Background . Choices for venous cannulation for left heart bypass, to assist repair of traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta, are between the left atrial appendage and pulmonary veins. Methods . A retrospective chart review was performed of patients who underwent operative repair of ruptured aorta. Results . Over a 15-year period between March 1985 and February 2000, 133 patients were admitted to a level I trauma center with aortic rupture. Of the 50 procedures performed with left heart bypass, the left atrial appendage was cannulated in 19 and pulmonary veins in 31 (four superior, 27 inferior). Complications occurred in 7 of the 19 patients who underwent venous cannulation via the atrial appendage (two ventricular fibrillation, three atrial fibrillation, one pericardial effusion leading to tamponade, and one phrenic nerve injury). Complications occurred in 2 patients who underwent cannulation via pulmonary vein (one atrial fibrillation, one pericardial effusion requiring tapping) ( p = 0.02). Conclusions . Cannulation via the pulmonary veins is associated with a decrease in complication rates compared with cannulation of the atrial appendage.
Spontaneous Polarization-Induced Nanohelixes, Nanosprings, and Nanorings of Piezoelectric Nanobelts

Growth of (0001) facet-dominated, free-standing, piezoelectric zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures is challenged by the divergence of the surface energy due to intrinsic polarization. By controlling gr...
The most informative stopping times for Viterbi algorithm: sequential properties

Sequential properties of the Viterbi algorithm are studied based on a renewal sequence of the most informative stopping times which can be explicitly found during the Viterbi recognition of the most likeliest hidden Markovian state-sequence.
A study of disparate grid sizes for an irregular-shape scatterer on EFIE, MFIE, and CFIE

We have implemented a numerical algorithm for solving the integral equations of electromagnetic scattering from conducting objects using the method of moments. This code is implemented and developed for the computation of near-field interactions in the multilevel fast multipole algorithm (MLFMA). The implementation utilized the flat-triangular patch for the surface description and the Rao-Wilton-Glisson (1982) basis as the current expansion function. The triangular patch basis was introduced by Rao et. al. for solving the electrical field integral equation (EFIE). Our implementation is focused on the consideration of reducing the condition number of the impedance matrix. Hence, the implementation includes the electrical field integral equation (EFIE), the magnetic field integral equation (MFIE), and the combined field integral equation (CFIE). In the computation of the matrix elements associated with the nearby elements, the near-singular integrals are treated properly with the aid of the formulas given previously. This allows the code to deal with objects that contain very thin structures. Moreover, we added a partial diagonal preconditioner in the code in case the iterative solver does not provide any preconditioners. This is very important in the Galerkin's method. We have tested the code for various ill-conditioning problems to validate the performance of the implementation.
A Pan-H1 Anti-Hemagglutinin Monoclonal Antibody with Potent Broad-Spectrum Efficacy In Vivo

Seasonal epidemics caused by antigenic variations in influenza A virus remain a public health concern and an economic burden. The isolation and characterization of broadly neutralizing anti-hemagglutinin monoclonal antibodies (MAb) have highlighted the presence of highly conserved epitopes in divergent influenza A viruses. Here, we describe the generation and characterization of a mouse monoclonal antibody designed to target the conserved regions of the hemagglutinin of influenza A H1 viruses, a subtype that has caused pandemics in the human population in both the 20th and 21st centuries. By sequentially immunizing mice with plasmid DNA encoding the hemagglutinin of antigenically different H1 influenza A viruses (A/South Carolina/1/1918, A/USSR/92/1977, and A/California/4/2009), we isolated and identified MAb 6F12. Similar to other broadly neutralizing MAb previously described, MAb 6F12 has no hemagglutination inhibition activity against influenza A viruses and targets the stalk region of hemagglutinins. As designed, it has neutralizing activity against a divergent panel of H1 viruses in vitro, representing 79 years of antigenic drift. Most notably, MAb 6F12 prevented gross weight loss against divergent H1 viruses in passive transfer experiments in mice, both in pre- and postexposure prophylaxis regimens. The broad but specific activity of MAb 6F12 highlights the potent efficacy of monoclonal antibodies directed against a single subtype of influenza A virus.
Pharmacokinetic monitoring of high-dose methotrexate. Early recognition of high-risk patients.

The administration of high-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) with leucovorin rescue carries with it a risk of severe toxicity which may be fatal. In the present study, patients with a 24-h serum concentration of 5 x10- M and an elimination half-life (T1/2) of 3.5 h during the first 24 h after the infusion were considered at low risk for toxicity and received conventional lowdose leucovorin rescue. Patients not meeting these criteria were considered at high risk for toxicity and received an escalated and extended course of leucovorin. The low-risk criteria were met following 109 of 114 HDMTX infusions administered to 30 patients. None of these patients developed toxicity with low-dose leucovorin. The 24-h serum concentration and the t1/2 exceeded the low-risk criteria following five HDMTX infusions administered to three patients. In two of these three patients leucovorin was continued until the MTX concentration was 10-8 M (168–265 h) and no toxicity developed. The third high-risk patient discontinued his leucovorin 11 days prior to a MTX serum concentration 10-8 M and developed moderate toxicity. Clinical features present in the three high-risk patients, which were not present in the low-risk group, included a pleural effusion in one patient and gastrointestinal obstruction in the other two patients. The identification of 3/30 high-risk patients in the present study was consistent with a historical control group in which 6/65 patients developed severe toxicity. These data indicate that patients meeting the criteria described herein are at low risk to develop toxicity with conventional leucovorin rescue and that high-risk patients may be identified early enough to reduce or prevent toxicity.
Laser-feedback measurements of turtle basilar membrane motion using direct reflection

In mammalian hearing, the frequency-dependent spatial pattern of movement in the basilar membrane/organ of Corti complex forms the basis of frequency discrimination. This is not necessarily the case in lower vertebrates; the turtle, for example, has an electrical resonance mechanism in its auditory receptor cells that varies in best frequency from cell to cell. But how much, if any, of the frequency separation by the turtle is done mechanically by the basilar membrane complex? Attempts to find an investigative approach that avoided placing objects on the basilar membrane led to the rediscovery of laser-feedback interferometry. Laser-feedback interferometric investigations of the vibrational amplitude and phase of the turtle basilar membrane in response to imposed nanometer displacements of the eardrum reveal that the membrane reflects the broadly-tuned middle-ear filter characteristics. Phase-angle measurements of the basilar membrane as a function of frequency, and the best frequency of the obtained amplitude tuning curves, did not vary as a function of position within each specimen. Input-output functions of the basilar membrane were generally linear. The middle ear demonstrates a negative gain of 2-6 while the central region of the basilar membrane has a positive gain of 4-18 dependent on location and biological variability.
Endoscopic treatment options for cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinomas are often locally advanced or have metastasized, and at the time of diagnosis individuals often have a poor prognosis. Endoscopic treatment options traditionally include biliary decompression via stenting to allow for systemic chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with self-expanding metal biliary stents being preferred. Recent developments in locoregional therapy delivered endoscopically, such as photodynamic therapy and radiofrequency abalation, have shown promising results in improving patient survival.