cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhanced anaerobic biodegradation of vinyl chloride in ground water

The enhanced biotransformation of vinyl chloride (VC) under anaerobic conditions was studied using static microcosms and a flow-through column packed with soil from a study site. Vinyl chloride was found to be resistant to transformation in the static microcosms in five months of incubation; however, 89% of the vinyl chloride that was dissolved in the water was transformed when the microbiota in the columns was stimulated with a mixture of nutrients. In the presence of nutrients such as methane, methanol, ammonium phosphate and phenol, the main products of biotransformation were nonchlorinated organics such as methane and ethylene. Sodium acetate, added to the water and soil, did not enhance the biotransformation of VC because acetate-utilizing bacteria were not found at the study site and none developed in soil sample after the 21 d allowed for adaptation. Four biodegradation mechanisms of vinyl chloride under anaerobic conditions were recognized in this study: (a) reductive dechlorination to ethylene; (b) mineralization to methane; (c) formation of chloromethane, probably followed by methane formation; and (d) bio-oxidation to CO2, where acetate and citrate were added. A pseudo-first-order rate constant of 1.01 × 10−3 months−1 and a t1/2 of 57.2 years were calculated for the disappearance of vinyl chloride in soil and water microcosms under anaerobic conditions, without bioenhancement.
Cellular effects of combined adriamycin and x‐irradiation in human tumor cells

The effects on cell survival in tissue culture of Adriamycin, of various Adriamycin derivatives and of the parent compound, daunomycin, have been studied. Adriamycin and three of its C-14 derivatives show similar toxicities towards cells chronically exposed in culture. Acute (30 min) exposures are significantly less toxic than exposures to the drug throughout the period of colony formation. Daunomycin, the parent compound, is significantly more toxic than any Adriamycin compound. Both high-dose, pulsed exposures and low-dose, chronic exposures result in shoulders on the cell survival curves. Split-dose experiments show little evidence for a significant acute repair of Ad damage. Ad toxicity is additive to X-rays at high levels of cell survival and synergistic at low levels of cell survival. Both excision repair-competent and excision-deficient cells show sensitization to X-irradiation when significantly cytotoxic levels of Ad are used. No evidence for an induction of Ad resistance by previous irradiation was found. Ad does not appear to inhibit the repair of sub-lethal X-ray damage. Since Ad produces molecular lesions similar to those induced by X-rays it is hypothesized that both radiation "enhancement" and the recall of latent X-ray injuries result from the induction of Ad of DNA damage similar to that occurring following X-ray exposure. The implications of these findings with respect to clinical drug and X-ray scheduling is discussed.
Seasonality and Sampling of Coquillettidia perturbans (Diptera: Culicidae) in South Florida

The occurrence of Coquillettidia perturbans (Walker) in subtropical Florida was monitored for 3 years by larval sampling and emergence trapping. Emergence was nearly continuous between mid-March and early November, but not detected at other times. Peaks of adults in mid-June and early September suggested the occurrence of two overlapping generations. Larvae attached to cattail roots overwintered in the 3rd and 4th instars. Larval densities were higher in late autumn and winter than in summer, were negatively correlated with water temperatures, and were positively correlated with average age (instar)of samples. The number of larvae per cattail and root weight were positively correlated. Approximately 50% of larvae detached during uprooting.
A simplified model of serum growth hormone regulation in man

Mathematical model of human pituitary gland mechanism controlling secretions of serum growth hormone in response to glucose deficiency
Efficacy of radical hysterectomy as treatment for patients with small cell carcinoma of the cervix

Background This study was performed to identify pathologic and clinical features that best predict disease free survival of patients with early stage small cell carcinoma of the cervix treated by radical hysterectomy. Methods Three hundreds and seventy patients with cervical carcinoma were analyzed retrospectively to define those variable that best predict disease free survival (DFS). Variables included age, weight, race, marital status, economic status, tumor size, depth of invasion (DI), lymph-vascular space involvement (LVSI), cell type, tumor grade, lymph node metastasis (LNM), and total number of lymph nodes removed. Patients with lymph node metastasis, parametrial involvement, and positive or close surgical margins were offered postoperative radiation. Results Twelve patients were found to have small cell carcinoma (3.2%). One patient had microinvasive carcinoma of the cervix (MIC) as defined by the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists with a depth of invasion of 3 mm or less and no lymph-vascular space invasion, and has been reported previously. A detailed analysis of the other patients with nonsmall cell carcinoma is presented separately. Five patients achieved a DFS of at least 5 years, whereas 7 patients died with disease. Excluding the patient with MIC, the 5-year DFS rate was 36.4%. Conclusions Relative to other cell types, small cell carcinomas of the cervix is an aggressive neoplasm with a higher rate of LVSI and LNM despite smaller DI and tumor size. These data suggest that multimodality therapy, combining radical surgery and radiation with cytotoxic chemotherapy, may provide these patients with the best chance for cure.
The elderly, undernutrition, and pharmacokinetics

There is good evidence that malnutrition may alter the pharmacokinetic parameters and, thus, actions of several drugs. The elderly are probably most at risk, as malnutrition tends to affect factors already altered by primary and secondary aging.
Medicinal Plants and Phytomedicines. Linking Plant Biochemistry and Physiology to Human Health

The past decade has witnessed a tremendous resurgence in the interest and use of medicinal plant products, especially in North America. Surveys of plant medicinal usage by the American public have shown an increase from just about 3% of the population in 1991 to over 37% in 1998 ([Brevoort, 1998][1
Compensation for instrument losses in circuits containing a wattmeter, voltmeter, and ammeter

THE relative location, in a circuit, of a wattmeter, voltmeter, and ammeter generally requires careful consideration. If the voltmeter and wattmeter potential circuit are connected on the load side of the ammeter and wattmeter current coil, the potential circuits are subjected to the correct voltage, but the ammeter and wattmeter current is in error by the current through the potential circuits. On the other hand, connecting the voltmeter and wattmeter potential coil to the line side of the ammeter and wattmeter current coil permits the correct load current to flow through the instruments, but the potential-circuit voltage is incorrect by the voltage drop in the ammeter and wattmeter current coil.
Sort, merge, repeat: an algorithm for effectively finding corners in hand-sketched strokes

Free-sketch recognition systems attempt to recognize freely-drawn sketches without placing stylistic constraints on the users. Such systems often recognize shapes by using geometric primitives that describe the shape's appearance rather than how it was drawn. A free-sketch recognition system necessarily allows users to draw several primitives using a single stroke. Corner finding, or vertex detection, is used to segment these strokes into their underlying primitives (lines and arcs), which in turn can be passed to the geometric recognizers. In this paper, we present a new multi-pass corner finding algorithm called MergeCF that is based on continually merging smaller stroke segments with similar, larger stroke segments in order to eliminate false positive corners. We compare MergeCF to two benchmark corner finders with substantial improvements in corner detection.
Functional roles of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin 1-Beta in hypoxia and reoxygenation

Background Intercellular signaling plays an important role in the development of lung ischemia–reperfusion injury. However, the role of specific mediators remains poorly characterized. Alveolar macrophages (AM) produce soluble mediators early in reperfusion, which modulate the responses of endothelial and epithelial cells to oxidative stress. There is a burst of proinflammatory cytokine production in a variety of cells; however, interleukin 1-beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) localize to the AM. We hypothesized that these cytokines account for the costimulatory effects that AM exert on endothelial and epithelial cells. Methods Activated AM media was placed on cultured rat type 2 pneumocytes and pulmonary artery endothelial cells, which were then subjected to hypoxia and reoxygenation. To assess the contributions of IL-1β and TNF-α, the cells were treated with control media or media that had been depleted of IL-1β or TNF-α. To deplete specific cytokines, activated media was passed through a column with immobilized IL-1β or TNF-α antibodies. Nuclear translocation of transcription factors, mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, and cytokine and chemokine production were assessed. Results Depletion of IL-1β or TNF-α effectively eliminated the ability of AM media to enhance the response of endothelial and epithelial cells to oxidative stress. There were significant reductions in monocyte chemotactic protein 1 and cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant (CINC) production ( p Conclusions Interleukin 1-beta and TNF-α are critical mediators in the intercellular communication pathways that allow the AM to enhance the response of surrounding cells to oxidative stress.
SPEIR: A Ge Compton camera

Abstract The SPEctroscopic Imager for γ - Rays (SPEIR) is a Compton scatter γ -ray imaging system of high efficiency and spectroscopic resolution with a 4- π field-of-view. The imaging system consists of double-sided segmented (DSSD) planar Ge detectors, an acquisition system instrumenting the detectors, and a set of data analysis methods. The analysis methods employ event reconstruction algorithms that increase the intrinsic position resolution and granularity of the detectors, and provide photon scattering information relevant for Compton imaging.
Computational tools for the analysis of spatial patterns of gene expression in Common Lisp

Scientific and technological advances in biotechnology have led to the determination of the sequence of the genomes of a growing number of organisms. Tools such as DNA microarrays offer the ability to determine the levels of expression of substantially all of the genes in a given genome in a single experiment, yet are limited to providing the levels of expression across an ensemble of cells, such as a particular organ or the entire organism. In order to understand the developmental roles of these genes, it is highly desirable not just to know if a given gene expressed, but in which tissues and at which times a given gene is expressed. Using high-throughput laboratory techniques we have constructed an atlas of spatial patterns of gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster imaginal discs. Building such an atlas requires a diverse array of computational techniques and, ideally, the atlas would be presented to the users not just in a static, browsable form, but in a computable form, along with tools to analyze the data contained in the atlas. To this end, we have developed a number of algorithms, tools and libraries, implemented in Common Lisp, to address problems such as matrix and image data representation, computer vision tasks, knowledge representation of the genes in the genome and maps of their global and spatial patterns of gene expression, and to query and analyze these data sets.
The endodontic culture technique: a critical evaluation.

Abstract The rationale of the culture concept has been discussed, and host-parasite interactions have been considered. Suggestions have been made relative to the criteria for determining when to fill a root canal, and the use of a microbiologic assay in acute situations has been recommended.
Cytogenetics and molecular genetics of bladder cancer: a personal view.

The cytogenetic and molecular genetic aspects that may be involved in the pathogenesis of bladder cancer are presented. Although anomalies of chromosome 9 may play an initial causative role in this cancer, the subsequent events, involving a succession of genetic changes, are less established or understood. This presentation is a distillation of what generally are considered to be the cytogenetic and molecular genetic events that constitute the array of changes underlying bladder cancer.
In vitro stimulation of phagocytosis in a macrophage cell line measured by a convenient radiolabeled latex bead assay.

Commercially available carboxylated latex beads were covalently labeled with [3H]-tyramine and used in a quantitative phagocytosis assay. Macrophage cells were incubated with 3H-beads, then treated with trypsin-Versene and washed through fetal calf serum to remove uningested beads. Uptake was linear with time (up to 6 hr) and cell number (up to 5 × 105). PU5-1.8 and RAW264 macrophage tumor culture lines were more active than adherent cells from peptone- or oil-induced peritoneal exudates of mice, which were more active than normal peritoneal adherent cells. PU5-1.8 phagocytosis was especially resistant to inhibition by cytochalasin B, but cytochalasin A and iodoacetic acid were effective inhibitors. Treatment of PU5-1.8 cells with LPS or PPD in vitro stimulated latex ingestion; the presence of hydrocortisone blocked the increase but not baseline activity. The easy preparation and storage of labeled beads makes this convenient assay method particularly useful for comparison of the phagocytic activity of a number of cell populations.
Impact of parent training on family functioning

This study examined outcomes of a STEP parent training program in several areas of family functioning identified by the so-called McMaster model of family health. The study found that participants who completed the parent training did report more improvements in general family functioning than those families whose children received routine mental health services. More specific improvements in family relationships were reported in the areas of problem solving, communication, affective responsiveness, and behavior control. Some differential effects were found for children older than 10 years of age. These improvements were also evaluated to determine their clinical significance, by examining how many families moved from problematic to healthy functioning. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Proximity effect in superconducting layered structures.

A general formalism for discussing the superconducting proximity effect and the charge-carrier transfer effect in an inhomogeneous layered structure has been obtained from the Gor'kov equation. Two practical systems, which are finite superconductor/nonsuperconductor multilayer and superlattice, are considered. The physical properties such as the transition temperature, the coherence length, the proximity effect, and the charge-carrier transfer effect have been discussed. When compared with experiment, our calculations show that the depression of the transition temperature in the c-oriented Y-Ba-Cu-O/Pr-Ba-Cu-O superlattices is dominantly induced by the proximity effect.
Ubiquitous personal assistive system for neuropathy

The improvement in processor performance through continuous breakthroughs in transistor technology has resulted in the proliferation of lightweight embedded systems. Advances in wireless technology and embedded systems have enabled remote healthcare and telemedicine. Continuous and real-time monitoring can discretely analyze how a patient's lifestyle affects his/her physiological conditions and if additional symptoms occur under various stimuli.Diabetes is one of most difficult challenges facing the health-care industry today. One of the primary afflictions of diabetic patients is peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation in the foot). As a direct result of this condition, the likelihood of ulcer increases which in many cases leads to to amputation. We have developed a wireless electronic orthotics composed of lightweight embedded systems and non-invasive sensors which can be used by diabetic patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy. Our proposed system monitors feet motion and pressure distribution beneath the feet in real-time and classifies the state of the patient. The proposed system detects the conditions that could potentially cause a foot ulcer. This system enables a continuous feedback mechanism for instance in case of an undesired behavior or condition a preemptive message wirelessly to the patient's cell phone/PDA/PC and over the WEB to the patient's care-giver. This system can potentially reduce the amputation rates resulting from neuropathy by a huge factor.
Effects of noise in performance comparisons of designs for model identification and discrimination

This paper considers the problem of comparison of fractional factorial designs in model identification and model discrimination from a class of models. We compare performance of designs in model identification and discrimination for a large number of simulated data. The frequency or proportion of correct identification of the best model with the mean square error, the average power value and the average p-value for testing the significance of an important parameter are used as criterion functions in our comparisons. We also study the effects of noise in our performance comparison of designs.
CO2 mitigation and renewable oil from photosynthetic microbes: a new appraisal.

The only major strategy now being seriously considered for biological mitigation of atmospheric CO2 relies entirely on terrestrial plants. Photosynthetic microbes were the focus of similar consideration in the 1990s. However, two major government-sponsored research programs in Japan and the USA concluded that the requisite technology was not feasible, and those programs were terminated after investing US$117 million and US$25 million, respectively. We report here on the results of a privately funded US$20 million program that has engineered, built, and successfully operated a commercial-scale (2 ha), modular, production system for photosynthetic microbes. The production system couples photobioreactors with open ponds in a two-stage process – a combination that was suggested, but never attempted – and has operated continuously for several years to produce Haematococcus pluvialis. The annually averaged rate of achieved microbial oil production from H. pluvialis is equivalent to <420 GJ ha -1 yr-1, which exceeds the most optimistic estimates of biofuel production from plantations of terrestrial ``energy crops.'' The maximum production rate achieved to date is equivalent to 1014 GJ ha-1 yr-1. We present evidence to demonstrate that a rate of 3200 GJ ha-1 yr-1 is feasible using species with known performance characteristics under conditions that prevail in the existing production system. At this rate, it is possible to replace reliance on current fossil fuel usage equivalent to ∼300 EJ yr-1 – and eliminate fossil fuel emissions of CO2 of ∼6.5 GtC yr-1 – using only 7.3% of the surplus arable land projected to be available by 2050. By comparison, most projections of biofuels production from terrestrial energy crops would require in excess of 80% of surplus arable land. Oil production cost is estimated at $84/bbl, assuming no improvements in current technology. We suggest enhancements that could reduce cost to $50/bbl or less.
Design and fabrication of one millimeter high structures

To obtain greater output from micromachines and greater sensitivity from microsensors’ structure heights must increase into the millimeter range. Two methods exist to obtain this structure height: the single layer technique and the multi-layer stacking technique. These methods are examined and the advantages and limitations of both are determined.
Early science–policy interactions in climate change: lessons from the Advisory Group on Greenhouse Gases

Abstract The consensus-based science advisory apparatus of the global climate regime is frequently faulted for achieving legitimacy at the cost of compromising the policy specificity of its assessments. The merits of an alternate corporatist model with closed-door interaction between a few experts and stakeholders are examined here by exhuming the legacy of the Advisory Group on Greenhouse Gases (AGGG). The study concludes that while such a model engendered policy innovation in the short term, it caused the erosion of scientific and political support over the longer term, leading to the marginalization of the AGGG.
Endocrine and reproductive effects of polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Management strategies for overweight and obese women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) who desire fertility should include weight loss. Even a small reduction in body weight can improve ovulatory function and pregnancy rate and reduce adverse obstetric outcomes. New data suggest that letrozole should be considered as the new first-line medical treatment of anovulatory infertility in PCOS over clomiphene citrate. Second-line treatments for anovulatory infertility include in vitro fertilization, gonadotropins, or ovarian drilling.
Cytogenetic and molecular aberrations in endometrial stromal tumors

Endometrial stromal tumors (ESTs) are rare uterine mesenchymal tumors, comprising <10% of all uterine mesenchymal neoplasms. The latest World Health Organization classification divides endometrial stromal tumors into 3 categories based on morphologic features: endometrial stromal nodule (ESN), low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma, and undifferentiated endometrial sarcoma. Specific cytogenetic aberrations and molecular genetic alterations have recently been identified in endometrial stromal tumors, providing insights into their molecular biology, potential diagnostic markers, and possible therapeutic targets. Currently, recurrent chromosomal rearrangements resulting in gene fusion play a substantive role in the pathogenesis of endometrial stromal nodules, endometrial stromal sarcomas, and a small subset of undifferentiated endometrial sarcomas. Loss of heterozygosity of tumor suppressor genes and deregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway have also been implicated in EST tumorigenesis. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the molecular pathology of endometrial stromal tumors.
Temperament and personality in dogs (Canis familiaris): A review and evaluation of past research

Abstract Spurred by theoretical and applied goals, the study of dog temperament has begun to garner considerable research attention. The researchers studying temperament in dogs come from varied backgrounds, bringing with them diverse perspectives, and publishing in a broad range of journals. This paper reviews and evaluates the disparate work on canine temperament. We begin by summarizing general trends in research on canine temperament. To identify specific patterns, we propose several frameworks for organizing the literature based on the methods of assessment, the breeds examined, the purpose of the studies, the age at which the dogs were tested, the breeding and rearing environment, and the sexual status of the dogs. Next, an expert-sorting study shows that the enormous number of temperament traits examined can be usefully classified into seven broad dimensions. Meta-analyses of the findings pertaining to inter-rater agreement, test–retest reliability, internal consistency, and convergent validity generally support the reliability and validity of canine temperament tests but more studies are needed to support these preliminary findings. Studies examining discriminant validity are needed, as preliminary findings on discriminant validity are mixed. We close by drawing 18 conclusions about the field, identifying the major theoretical and empirical questions that remain to be addressed.
Structural analysis of the mechanism of adenovirus binding to its human cellular receptor, CAR

Binding of virus particles to specific host cell surface receptors is known to be an obligatory step in infection even though the molecular basis for these interactions is not well characterized. The crystal structure of the adenovirus fiber knob domain in complex with domain I of its human cellular receptor, coxsackie and adenovirus receptor (CAR), is presented here. Surface-exposed loops on knob contact one face of CAR, forming a high-affinity complex. Topology mismatches between interacting surfaces create interfacial solvent-filled cavities and channels that may be targets for antiviral drug therapy. The structure identifies key determinants of binding specificity, which may suggest ways to modify the tropism of adenovirus-based gene therapy vectors.
Optic Neuritis Diagnosed by Bedside Emergency Physician−Performed Ultrasound: A Case Report

Abstract Background Optic neuritis is an inflammatory demyelinating condition of the optic nerve that causes subacute visual loss. It is often the result of an underlying systemic condition, such as multiple sclerosis. Due to the possible long-term morbidity associated with this condition, it is essential that the emergency physician recognizes the diagnosis and expedites treatment. Objective This case report describes optic neuritis diagnosed at the bedside by emergency physician−performed ultrasound. Case Report This is a case report of a young man presenting with unilateral painful vision loss. Optic neuritis must be considered in the differential diagnosis of any young patient who presents with visual complaints without any other neurologic findings. This report is unique because there are very few cases describing the findings of optic neuritis on emergency physician−performed bedside ultrasound in the literature. Conclusions This article presents the case, describes diagnostic modalities, especially the use of ultrasound in its diagnosis, and the course of treatment for this particular condition.
ON ONE-MEMBRANE P SYSTEMS OPERATING IN SEQUENTIAL MODE

In the standard definition of a P system, a computation step consists of a parallel application of a "maximal" set of nondeterministically chosen rules. Referring to this system as a parallel P system, we consider in this paper a sequential P system, in which each step consists of an application of a single nondeterministically chosen rule. We show the following: 1. For 1-membrane purely catalytic systems (pure CS's), the sequential version is strictly weaker than the parallel version in that the former defines (i.e., generates) exactly the semilinear sets, whereas the latter is known to define nonrecursive sets. 2. For 1-membrane communicating P systems (CPS's), the sequential version can only define a proper subclass of the semilinear sets, whereas the parallel version is known to define nonrecursive sets. 3. Adding a new type of rule of the form: ab → axbyccomedcome to the CPS (a natural generalization of the rule ab → axbyccome in the original model), where x, y ∈ {here, out}, to the sequential 1-membrane CPS makes it equivalent to a vector addition system. 4. Sequential 1-membrane symport/antiport systems (SA's) are equivalent to vector addition systems, contrasting the known result that the parallel versions can define nonrecursive sets. 5. Sequential 1-membrane SA's whose rules have radius 1, (1,1), (1,2) (i.e., of the form (a, out), (a, in), (a, out; b, in), (a, out; bc, in)) generate exactly the semilinear sets. However, if the rules have radius 1, (1,1), (2,1) (i.e., of the form (ab, out; c, in)), the SA's can only generate a proper subclass of the semilinear sets.
Fibrin sealants in surgical or traumatic hemorrhage.

Purpose of review Fibrin sealants have been used to control surgical hemorrhage for three decades, and numerous articles have reported their use in a variety of surgical procedures in both animal models and humans. This article reviews the recent literature on fibrin sealants with the specific aim of highlighting the use of fibrin sealants in planned and simulated trauma to provide background for clinicians who may consider using fibrin sealants in specific cases. An overview of the mechanisms of action of fibrin sealants, their indications, and current commercial formulations is also provided. Recent findings Recent studies have evaluated the use of fibrin sealants in vascular surgery, including aortic anastomosis in an animal model, gastrointestinal anastomoses, plastic surgery, urologic procedures including heminephrectomy, and other procedures. Summary Fibrin sealants continue to be used and evaluated in animal models and surgery. Their use in military settings and in civilian trauma centers, explored for several years, is not reported extensively in the literature. Recent events and the current tempo of military operations dictate that many potential scenarios exist for using fibrin sealants to control traumatic hemorrhage.
Immunomodulation therapy with lenalidomide in follicular, transformed and diffuse large B cell lymphoma: current data on safety and efficacy

Lenalidomide is an immunomodulatory agent which has been approved for multiple myeloma. Lenalidomide is also effective in and tolerated well by patients with follicular lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and transformed large cell lymphoma. This review summarizes the results of current preclinical and clinical studies of lenalidomide, alone or in combination with the monoclonal antibody rituximab, as a therapeutic option for these three lymphoma types. This review will serve as a tool guiding future clinical investigations to improve survival rates for these three lymphomas.
The Consequences of Official Labels: An Examination of the Rights Lost by the Mentally Ill and Mentally Incompetent Since 1989.

This study presents a survey of state statutes which restrict the civil rights of persons with a mental illness or who have been declared mentally incompetent. Five civil rights (jury service, voting, holding public office, marriage, and parenting) are examined. The results of the 1999 study are compared with the results of a 1989 study, to reveal any trends in the restriction of the civil rights of those suffering from mental problems. This comparison reveals that states continue to restrict the rights of the mentally ill and incompetent, and that there is a trend toward increased restriction of the familial rights of marriage and parenting.
Compost, Manure and Synthetic Fertilizer Influences Crop Yields, Soil Properties, Nitrate Leaching and Crop Nutrient Content

From 1993 to 2001, a maize-vegetable-wheat rotation was compared using either 1) composts, 2) manure, or 3) synthetic fertilizer for nitrogen nutrient input. From 1993 to 1998, red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) and crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) were used as an annual winter legume cover crop prior to maize production. From 1999 to 2001, hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth.) served as the legume green manure nitrogen (N) source for maize. In this rotation, wheat depended entirely on residual N that remained in the soil after maize and vegetable (pepper and potato) production. Vegetables received either compost, manure, or fertilizer N inputs. Raw dairy manure stimulated the highest overall maize yields of 7,395 kg/ha (approximately 140 bushels per acre). This exceeded the Berks County mean yield of about 107 bushels per acre from 1994 to 2001. When hairy vetch replaced clover as the winter green manure cover crop, maize yields rose in three of the four treatments (approximately 500-1,300 kg/ha, or ...
Analyzing Shine's Group Actualized, Group Pure, and Generalized Pure Behavior Functions: The Case of One Independent Group

For the case of several independent groups of subjects, illustrative analyses are given for each of Shine's group actualized, group pure, and generalized pure multi-subject behavior functions. The three analyses are done on the same set of data, and the basic results are cast into an analysis of variance framework to facilitate their interpretation. Experimental control over sources of systematic variation is investigated. The general results of the three illustrative analyses are discussed.
Forage Evaluation. II. Productive Response of First-Calf Holstein Heifers Fed Early-Cut or Late-Cut Alfalfa Hay as the Only Source of Energy Throughout a Total Lactation,

Abstract Thirty-nine first-calf Holstein cows were fed early-cut or late-cut alfalfa hays as the only sources of energy for a 280-day lactation. Before calving, the animals had been used in a trial to determine the effect of feeding these two forages on growth rate. After parturition, half of the heifers on each prepartum forage were transferred to the opposite treatment to measure carry-over effects. Fourteen-day comparisons were made for three stages of lactation: Phase I, Periods 1–7; Phase II, 8–15; Phase III, 16–20. Switching hay treatments at calving time caused significant differences in milk production and rates of weight change in Phase I. All cows gained weight during the trial, even though milk production was below the estimated potential. Feed intake and milk production were greater and conversion ratios of hay to milk were higher for cows fed early-cut hay than for those offered late-cut hay. Milk from cows fed late-cut hay during both the pre- and postpartum treatments was significantly lower in percentage of fat and protein.
A Rotational Stereo Model Based on XSlit Imaging

Traditional stereo matching assumes perspective viewing cameras under a translational motion: the second camera is translated away from the first one to create parallax. In this paper, we investigate a different, rotational stereo model on a special multi-perspective camera, the XSlit camera [9, 24]. We show that rotational XSlit (R-XSlit) stereo can be effectively created by fixing the sensor and slit locations but switching the two slits' directions. We first derive the epipolar geometry of R-XSlit in the 4D light field ray space. Our derivation leads to a simple but effective scheme for locating corresponding epipolar "curves". To conduct stereo matching, we further derive a new disparity term in our model and develop a patch-based graph-cut solution. To validate our theory, we assemble an XSlit lens by using a pair of cylindrical lenses coupled with slit-shaped apertures. The XSlit lens can be mounted on commodity cameras where the slit directions are adjustable to form desirable R-XSlit pairs. We show through experiments that R-XSlit provides a potentially advantageous imaging system for conducting fixed-location, dynamic baseline stereo.
Multiple susceptibility loci for multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common and frequently disabling autoimmune disorder mediated by autoaggressive T cells and autoantibodies that target central nervous system myelin. While numerous studies have demonstrated a strong genetic component to MS, it has been difficult to identify the specific genes involved. Several genomic screens have been undertaken to locate such genes, but have not provided consistent gene localization, except for the MHC on chromosome 6p21 and a locus on chromosome 19q13. To determine which of the original genomic locations presented in the US genome screen could be replicated, a more detailed analysis of additional families was performed. The results, derived from a population of 266 affected individuals belonging to 98 multiplex families, continue to support linkage to chromosomes 6p21, 6q27, and 19q13 with LOD scores>3.0, and suggest that regions on chromosomes 12q23-24 and 16p13 may also harbor susceptibility loci for MS. Analysis taking into account the known HLA-DR2 association identified two additional potential linkage regions on chromosomes 7q21-22 and 13q33-34. These regions can now be targeted for detailed study to identify the underlying MS susceptibility genes.
A simple method for measuring human cell-bound IgE levels in whole blood.

IgE plays a critical role in hypersensitivity reactions such as asthma and allergy as well as poorly defined roles in immunity to parasitic helminth infections. The quantity of antigen-specific IgE is thought to affect the intensity of the allergic reaction as well as the perceived level of resistance to parasitic worms. Because most somatic IgE is bound by its receptors, FceRI and FceRII, and increased expression of IgE receptors also change with cellular activation status, the serum concentration of IgE may not necessarily reflect levels of systemic IgE. Accurate measures of IgE would help to define the bona fide role of this molecule in immunity. Furthermore, improved indicators of systemic antigen-specific IgE could better predict the risk for severe allergic responses. In this report, we demonstrate a simple method for measuring cell-bound IgE in whole blood using basic flow cytometry. This method demonstrates that, in general, cell-bound IgE correlates well with serum levels of IgE. However, discordance in serum and cell-bound IgE levels in some individuals illustrates the inadequacy of using serum levels of IgE as a systemic indicator and validates the need to assay both cell-bound and free IgE.
Understanding the relevance of local conformational stability and dynamics to the aggregation propensity of an IgG1 and IgG2 monoclonal antibodies

Aggregation of monoclonal antibodies is often a multi-step process involving structural alterations in monomeric proteins and subsequent formation of soluble or insoluble oligomers. The role of local conformational stability and dynamics of native and/or partially altered structures in determining the aggregation propensity of monoclonal antibodies, however, is not well understood. Here, we investigate the role of conformational stability and dynamics of regions with distinct solvent exposure in determining the aggregation propensity of an IgG1 and IgG2 monoclonal antibody. The temperatures employed span the pre-unfolding range (10–40°C) and the onset temperatures (Tonset) for exposure of apolar residues (∼50°C), alterations in secondary structures (∼60°C) and initiation of visible aggregate formation (∼60°C). Solvent-exposed regions were found to precede solvent-shielded regions in an initiation of aggregation for both proteins. Such a process was observed upon alterations in overall tertiary structure while retaining the secondary structures in both the proteins. In addition, a greater dynamic nature of solvent-shielded regions in potential intermediates of IgG1 and the improved conformational stability increased its resistance to aggregation when compared to IgG2. These results suggest that local conformational stability and fluctuations of partially altered structures can influence the aggregation propensity of immunoglobulins.
An Examination of the Outcomes of Various Components of a Coordinated Community Response to Domestic Violence by Male Offenders

With recognition that police intervention by itself is not entirely effective, in recent years there has been a shift in public policies towards the implementation of a coordinated community response to domestic violence incidents. This article examines the impact of participation in several aspects of a coordinated community response (CCR) in a mid-sized city in the Midwest. Specifically, recidivism was examined using information on officially recorded re-arrests for 131 male domestic violence offenders involved in a CCR type intervention. In addition, exploratory analyses attempt to determine if certain offender characteristics are related to their likely of progressing through each of several post-conviction components of this CCR-type intervention. Limitations of the research and suggestions for policy responses to domestic violence are discussed.
Physical wavelet defined on an observation plane and the Dreamlet

Summary Wavefield or seismic data are special data sets. They cannot fill the 4-D space-time in arbitrary ways. The timespace distributions must observe causality which is dictated by the wave equation. Wave solutions can only exist on the light cone in the 4D Fourier space. Physical wavelet is a localized wave solution by extending the light cone into complex causal tube. In this study we establish the link between the physical wavelet defined by Kaiser using AST (analytic signal transform) and the dreamlet (drumbeatbeamlet). We prove that dreamlet can be considered as a type of physical wavelet defined on an observation plane (earth surface or a plane at depth z during extrapolation). Causality (or dispersion relation) built into the wavelet (dreamlet) and propagator is a distinctive feature of physical wavelet which is advantageous for applications in wavefield decomposition, propagation and imaging. One example of dreamlet decomposition on seismic data is given.
FSM model abstraction for analog/mixed-signal circuits by learning from I/O trajectories

Abstraction of circuits is desirable for faster simulation and high-level system verification. In this paper, we present an algorithm that derives a Mealy machine from differential equations of a circuit by learning input-output trajectories. The key idea is adapted from Angluin's DFA (deterministic finite automata) learning algorithm [1] that learns a DFA from another DFA. Several key components of Angluin's algorithm are modified so that it fits in our problem setting, and the modified algorithm also provides a reasonable partitioning of the continuous state space as a by-product. We validate our algorithm on a latch circuit and an integrator circuit, and demonstrate that the resulting FSMs inherit important behaviors of original circuits.
Transgenic Cereals — Zea mays (maize)

Genetic transformation of maize is routine in several genotypes despite the many difficulties encountered in developing reliable transformation techniques in this major cereal species. Aspects of maize tissue culture, including the target expiant, subsequent rapid in vitro proliferation and dependable regeneration from competent cells were prerequisite developments for gene delivery into maize. Recovery of transgenic, fertile maize required high levels of gene expression and identification of new selectable markers, along with DNA delivery into competent maize cells. DNA delivery by particle bombardment, Agrobacterium, electroporation and silica fiber methods have been the most carefully documented, each of which can now be used for gene transfer into maize. Promoters such as those from the CaMV 35S or ubiquitin genes, together with various introns have been widely used to achieve high expression levels, while the herbicide resistance gene, bar, has served as an important selectable marker for numerous studies in maize transformation. Although tissue culture cells were instrumental in the development of maize transformation, the direct use of expiants such as the immature embryo and/or meristems has found favor in more recent applications. Gene delivery in maize has shifted from emphasis on technology development to evaluation of gene expression with various transgenes, some of which are already in large-scale commercial development (e.g. insect and herbicide resistance). Maize transformation is increasingly being used to address more sophisticated aspects of gene regulation, plant development and physiology. The stability of transgene expression in primary transgenic plants and subsequent generations is of obvious academic and commercial importance. The isolation of promoters with a variety of expression profiles that are tissue-specific and/or temporally regulated will become more important as trait modification strategies evolve. Technologies such as site-directed integration, homologous recombination, ‘chimeraplasty’, and others will likely become routine in higher plants such as maize as this research area, now in its infancy, continues to develop. These technologies have the potential to aid our understanding of gene regulation, and to more directly make changes in endogenous gene sequences or to permit targeting of new genes (or regulatory elements) into precise genomic locations. With an assortment of accompanying genetic tools such as reverse genetic methods, mapping, genome-scale analysis and gene expression information, maize transformation has evolved into an important tool for both basic and applied studies in plants.
Osteochondromas of the Distal Aspect of the Tibia or Fibula: Natural History and Treatment*

Background: There is little information on the natural history or treatment of osteochondromas arising from the distal aspect of either the tibia or the fibula. It is believed that there is a risk of deformation of the ankle if these exostoses are left untreated or if the physis or neurovascular structures are injured during operative intervention. Methods: We reviewed the records of twenty-three patients who had been treated for osteochondroma of the distal aspect of the tibia or fibula between 1980 and 1996. Four of the patients had hereditary multiple cartilaginous exostoses. There were seventeen male and six female patients, and the average age at the time of presentation was sixteen years (range, eight to forty-eight years). Results: Preoperative radiographs showed evidence of plastic deformation of the fibula in eleven patients who had a large osteochondroma. Four patients elected not to have an operation. The tumor was excised in nineteen patients. Postoperatively, all nineteen patients had a Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score of 100 percent for function of the lower extremity with pain-free symmetrical and unrestricted motion of the ankle at the latest follow-up examination. Partial remodeling of the tibia and fibula gradually diminished the asymmetry of the ankles in all nineteen operatively managed patients; however, the remodeling was most complete in the younger patients. Pronation deformities of the ankle did not change after excision of the tumor. Complications of operative treatment included four recurrences (only three of which were symptomatic), one sural neuroma, one superficial wound infection, and one instance of growth arrest of the distal aspects of the tibia and fibula. Conclusions: Osteochondromas of the distal and lateral aspects of the tibia were more often symptomatic than those of the distal aspect of the fibula; they most commonly occurred in the second decade of life with ankle pain, a palpable mass, and unrestricted ankle motion. Untreated or partially excised lesions in skeletally immature patients may become larger and cause plastic deformation of the tibia and fibula and a pronation deformity of the ankle. Ideally, operative intervention should be delayed until skeletal maturity, but, in symptomatic patients, partial excision preserving the physis may be necessary for the relief of symptoms and the prevention of progressive ankle deformity. However, partial excision is associated with a high rate of recurrence, so a close follow-up is required. Skeletally mature patients who are symptomatic may require excision of the tumor.
Erratum for “Evaluation of Multiclass Traffic Sign Detection and Classification Methods for U.S. Roadway Asset Inventory Management” by Vahid Balali and Mani Golparvar-Fard

“ : : :The detection and classification methods are as shown in Fig. 2 are (1) Haar-like features with Adaboost classifiers, (2) histogram of oriented gradients with support vector machine classifiers, and (3) a new variant of HOG features where histogram of local color distributions are formed and concatenated with the HOG descriptors (Memarzadeh et al. 2013) to leverage both shape and color information for multiple traffic sign category with one-versus-all SVM classifiers.”