cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Government Finance in Pre-Industrial Europe

Government finance in pre-industrial Europe was shaped by two forces - continuing economic development and incessant warfare. Continuing economic development increased potential revenue and altered the ways in which it could be mobilized. Incessant warfare exerted constant, often intense, pressure to provide the funds needed for the waging of war. By the end of the sixteenth century, two very different systems of finance were emerging associated with two very different forms of government. In France and Spain, unsustainable borrowing led to default and to the ruin of government credit. With access to financial markets denied, these governments had to resort to expedients that were highly destructive of their economies. In the Netherlands, in contrast, the government slowly reestablished its credit, thereby avoided having to resort to the same harmful expedients. Differences in the systems of finance did much to explain the relative military success of the two types of government and ultimately their survival.
Comparison of Land-Mark-Based and Curve-Based Thin-Plate Warps for Analysis of Left-Ventricular Motion from Tagged MRI

MRI is unique in its ability to non-invasively and selectively alter tissue magnetization, and create tagged patterns within a deforming body such as the heart muscle. The resulting grid patterns define non-invasive tissue markers, providing a mechanism for in-vivo measurement of tissue motion and strain. In this paper, we report on objective comparison of thin-plate spline warps in reconstructing true deformations when using homologous land-mark points and when using homologous curves from tagged MR-image sequences of a cardiac motion simulator. In addition, the number of corresponding land-mark points as well as the number of corresponding curves are varied in order to determine the effect on accuracy of reconstructions. Finally, application of the developed techniques to computing LV tissue motion and strain in systole from short-axis tagged images of a porcine model with anterior myocardial infarction (MI) are given.
Calculation of boron-isotope fractionation between B(OH)3(aq) and B(OH)4-(aq)

Abstract Density functional and correlated molecular orbital calculations (MP2) are carried out on B(OH) 3 · n H 2 O clusters ( n = 0, 6, 32), and B ( OH ) 4 - · n H 2 O ( n = 0, 8, 11, 32) to estimate the equilibrium distribution of 10 B and 11 B isotopes between boric acid and borate in aqueous solution. For the large 32-water clusters, multiple conformations are generated from ab initio molecular dynamics simulations to account for the effect of solvent fluctuations on the isotopic fractionation. We provide an extrapolated value of the equilibrium constant α 34 for the isotope exchange reaction 10 B(OH) 3 (aq) + 11 B ( OH ) 4 - (aq) = 11 B(OH) 3 (aq) + 11 B ( OH ) 4 - (aq) of 1.026–1.028 near the MP2 complete basis set limit with 32 explicit waters of solvation. With some exchange-correlation functionals we find potentially important contributions from a tetrahedral neutral B(OH) 3 ·H 2 O Lewis acid–base complex. The extrapolations presented here suggest that DFT calculations give a value for 10 3 ln α 34 about 15% higher than the MP2 calculations.
Transport of neuronal BC1 RNA in Mauthner axons

In neurons, localized RNAs have been identified in dendrites and axons; however, RNA transport in axons remains poorly understood. Here we analyzed axonal RNA transport in goldfish Mauthner neurons in vivo. BC1 RNA, a noncoding RNA polymerase III transcript that is targeted to dendrites in neurons of the rodent nervous system, was used as a probe for axonal RNA transport. Somata of Mauthner neurons were microinjected with various RNAs. Full-length BC1 RNA, but not control RNAs of similar length, was targeted to both axons and dendrites of Mauthner neurons. BC1 RNA was transported in the form of a rapidly advancing wave front that progressed along axons, in a microtubule-dependent manner, at a rate of 2 μm/sec. Whereas a BC1 5′ segment of 65 nucleotides was transported to axons and dendrites in a way indistinguishable from full-length BC1 RNA, a BC1 3′ segment of 60 nucleotides did not enter Mauthner cell processes to any significant extent. In the wake of the wave advancing through the axon, BC1 RNA was found localized to discrete, spatially delimited domains at the axonal surface. Such demarcated cortical concentrations of BC1 RNA could not be observed after disruption of F-actin organization in the axon. It is concluded that the specific delivery of BC1 RNA to spatially defined axonal target sites is a two-step process that requires the sequential participation of microtubules for long-range axial transport and of actin filaments for local radial transfer and focal accumulation in cortical domains.
Evaluation of data transformations used with the square root and schoolfield models for predicting bacterial growth rate

A comparison was made between mathematical variations of the square root and Schoolfield models for predicting growth rate as a function of temperature. The statistical consequences of square root and natural logarithm transformations of growth rate use in several variations of the Schoolfield and square root models were examined. Growth rate variances of Yersinia enterocolitica in brain heart infusion broth increased as a function of temperature. The ability of the two data transformations to correct for the heterogeneity of variance was evaluated. A natural logarithm transformation of growth rate was more effective than a square root transformation at correcting for the heterogeneity of variance. The square root model was more accurate than the Schoolfield model when both models used natural logarithm transformation.
SNP identification and marker assay development for high-throughput selection of soybean cyst nematode resistance

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is the most economically devastating pathogen of soybean. Two resistance loci, Rhg1 and Rhg4 primarily contribute resistance to SCN race 3 in soybean. Peking and PI 88788 are the two major sources of SCN resistance with Peking requiring both Rhg1 and Rhg4 alleles and PI 88788 only the Rhg1 allele. Although simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers have been reported for both loci, they are linked markers and limited to be applied in breeding programs due to accuracy, throughput and cost of detection methods. The objectives of this study were to develop robust functional marker assays for high-throughput selection of SCN resistance and to differentiate the sources of resistance. Based on the genomic DNA sequences of 27 soybean lines with known SCN phenotypes, we have developed Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) assays for two Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from Glyma08g11490 for the selection of the Rhg4 resistance allele. Moreover, the genomic DNA of Glyma18g02590 at the Rhg1 locus from 11 soybean lines and cDNA of Forrest, Essex, Williams 82 and PI 88788 were fully sequenced. Pairwise sequence alignment revealed seven SNPs/insertion/deletions (InDels), five in the 6th exon and two in the last exon. Using the same 27 soybean lines, we identified one SNP that can be used to select the Rhg1 resistance allele and another SNP that can be employed to differentiate Peking and PI 88788-type resistance. These SNP markers have been validated and a strong correlation was observed between the SNP genotypes and reactions to SCN race 3 using a panel of 153 soybean lines, as well as a bi-parental population, F5–derived recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from G00-3213 x LG04-6000. Three functional SNP markers (two for Rhg1 locus and one for Rhg4 locus) were identified that could provide genotype information for the selection of SCN resistance and differentiate Peking from PI 88788 source for most germplasm lines. The robust KASP SNP marker assays were developed. In most contexts, use of one or two of these markers is sufficient for high-throughput marker-assisted selection of plants that will exhibit SCN resistance.
Enhancement by bacterial hemoglobin of amylase production in recombinant E. coli occurs under conditions of low O2

In shake flask growth, the presence of Vitreoscilla hemoglobin (VHb) enhanced production of recombinant α-amylase in E. coli by about 80% (generally confirming our previous results). Extension of these studies to growth in oxygen controlled fermentors showed that VHb afforded no advantage in α-amylase production when oxygen was not limiting, but resulted in about a 6-fold increase when oxygen was limiting. This increase was due almost entirely to secreted enzyme.
Magnetoelastic buckling of a rectangular block in plane strain

Abstract Of interest here is the stability of a rectangular block subjected to a uniform magnetic field perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. The two ends of the block are frictionless and kept parallel to each other. This boundary value problem is motivated by the classical problem of magnetoelastic buckling in which a cantilever beam subjected to a transverse magnetic field buckles when the applied field reaches a critical value. This work presents a finite strain continuum mechanics formulation of the stability problem of a homogeneous, compressible, magnetoelastic rectangular block in plane strain subjected to a uniform transverse magnetic field. The applied variational approach employs an unconstrained energy minimization recently proposed by the authors. The analytical solution for the critical buckling fields for both the antisymmetric and symmetric modes are obtained for three different constitutive laws. The corresponding result for thin beams is extracted asymptotically for a special material and the solution is compared to previously published results. The critical magnetic field is shown to increase monotonically with the block's aspect ratio for each material and mode type. Antisymmetric modes are always the critical buckling modes for stress saturated and neo-Hookean materials, except for a narrow range of moderate aspect ratios (about 0.25 ) where symmetric modes become critical. For strain-saturated solids no buckling is possible above a maximum aspect ratio.
Optical Pumping in Solid State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

An important current trend in solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is the growing exploitation of optical pumping of nuclear spin polarizations as a means of enhancing and localizing NMR signals. Recent work has been concentrated in two areas, namely optically pumped NMR in semiconductors and optical pumping of noble gases. Progress in these two areas, including technical developments and new applications in physical chemistry, condensed matter physics, and biomedical sciences, is reviewed. Likely directions for future developments are suggested.
Results of Definitive Repair of Complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect in Neonates and Infants

Background Early surgical intervention for complete atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) has contributed to a decline in postoperative mortality. Methods We retrospectively evaluated outcomes in 116 complete AVSD patients undergoing definitive repair from February 1997 through October 2002. Patients with an unbalanced AVSD not suitable for biventricular repair, tetralogy of Fallot, or double-outlet right ventricle were excluded. Results Median age at operation was 4.8 months (range, 9 days to 5.4 years); weight was 4.8 kg (range, 2.1 to 23 kg). Follow-up was 93% complete (mean, 27 months; range, 1 to 73 months). Early definitive repairs were performed in 98% (110 of 112) of patients initially presenting to our institution. Ninety-two patients (79%) underwent repair before 6 months of age, including 25 (22%) before 3 months. Actuarial survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 98%, 95%, and 95%, respectively. Seventy-five patients (68%) had trivial to mild left AV valve regurgitation at discharge; moderate or severe left AV valve stenosis developed in 3 (3%). Actuarial freedom from reoperation for left AV valve dysfunction at 1, 3, and 5 years was 94%, 89%, and 89%, respectively. Actuarial freedom from reoperation for left ventricular outflow tract obstruction at 1, 3, and 5 years was 100%, 93%, and 90%, respectively. Conclusions Definitive repair for complete AVSD can be performed in early infancy with excellent results. The two-patch technique is a safe and reproducible surgical method that can achieve low mortality and good midterm outcomes even in very young infants.
Supplemental Genistein, Quercetin, and Resveratrol Intake in Active Duty Army Soldiers

Previous reports indicate that the majority of U.S. Army soldiers consume dietary supplements (DSs) > 1 time/wk. However, these studies did not evaluate phytonutrient supplementation. A growing literature suggests inclusion of phytonutrients in DSs may pose a risk for toxicity, which could impact the performance of soldier duties, as well as long-term health and wellness. This study was conducted to assess and understand soldiers' motivations to consume phytonutrient-containing DSs, specifically genistein, quercetin, and resveratrol. The study was a cross-sectional, descriptive mixed-methods design using a survey and semistructured interviews. There were 436 soldiers stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington who completed the survey, from which 36 soldiers completed an interview. Overall, 34% of soldiers reported taking a single or multicomponent phytonutrient DS > 1 time/wk, from which 41 soldiers took >1 supplement/wk. Soldiers' reasons for use included unsure (54%), weight loss (12%), and other, unspecified (24%). The majority of interviewees did not consume DSs based on inclusion of genistein, quercetin, or resveratrol. The majority of soldiers, in our study, appear unable to rationalize their phytonutrient DS choices. Findings from this study illuminate the need for future research to further explore DS practices within military populations and encourage informed use of DSs.
Dielectric formulation of test particle energy loss in a plasma

Using a perturbation-theoretic method which starts from a microscopic Newtonian equation of motion for the trajectory of a test particle moving in a magnetic field-free plasma, the polarization and statistical contributions to the test charge energy loss are formulated entirely in terms of linear and quadratic dielectric functions.
Evolution of digital forensics in virtualization by using virtual machine introspection

Computer virtualization is not a new technology, it has become increasingly important because of the many advantages it offers to businesses and individuals to reduce costs, while introducing new challenges to the field of digital forensics. As virtualization continues to be adopted by more and more companies every year, malware and hacker attacks are going to have an increasing effect on virtualized systems. Therefore, the increasing growth of virtualization has created the need for a new generation of computer forensic tools and techniques to analyze these compromised systems. Because of the rapid growth of virtualization, new techniques to interact with virtual systems have been developed. Some of these techniques reduce the limitations of traditional forensics tools abilities to analyze the virtual system. Virtual Machine Introspection (VMI) is one of these techniques that have formed the basis for a number of novel approaches in the fields of cyber security and digital forensics. This paper explores how VMI improves traditional digital forensics to overcome its downfalls when used to investigate virtual machines, especially during a live analysis of the machine.
Millimeter-Wave Fin-Line Characteristics

This paper presents an analysis of the fin line. The spectral-domain technique is used to determine both wavelength and characteristic impedance. Numerical results are compared with known data for ridged waveguide slab-loaded waveguide, and slotline. Design curves are presented for practical millimeter-wave fin line structures.
Role of Macrophages in the Candidacidal Activity of Liposomal Amphotericin B

The role of macrophage activation in the candidacidal activity of liposome-incorporated (L) amphotericin B was investigated. Macrophages treated with L-amphotericin B killed Candida albicans more effectively than did macrophages treated with free (F) amphotericin B. However, macrophages treated with neither F- nor L-amphotericin B killed amphotericin B-resistant Candida tropicalis. In vivo stimulation of macrophages by intraperitoneal administration of thioglycollate, Freund's complete adjuvant, or heat-killed C. albicans followed by in vitro treatment with F- or L-amphotericin B, did not enhance their candidacidal activity. Intravenous administration of F- or L-amphotericin B did not augment the candidacidal activity of macrophages sensitized in vivo; however, sensitized macrophages showed enhanced killing compared with resident unstimulated cells. These studies suggest that macrophage-mediated enhancement of C. albicans killing may be due to uptake, transport, and delivery of L-amphotericin B to infected sites rather than to macrophage activation.
High efficiency transfection of monkey kidney COS-1 cells

Methods are described for achieving high efficiency transient transfection of COS-1 cells. A transfection solution of vector DNA and DEAE-dextran in phosphate buffered saline is added to the cells, followed by treatment with culture medium containing chloroquine, resulting in a maximum efficiency of about 50%. The high efficiency obtained is primarily dependent on the use of Ca2+- or Mg2+-free buffer solutions for transfection, because the addition of these ions greatly reduces efficiency. Shocking the cells with dimethylsulfoxide does not increase transfection efficiency. COS-1 cells are monkey kidney cells that have a genomic insertion of the SV40 T antigen gene, allowing plasmid expression vectors bearing an SV40 replication origin to be amplified in these cells. Therefore this transfection method is useful for optimizing transient expression of genes in a mammalian cell system.
Assignment of features in impedance spectra of the cement-paste/steel system

Abstract This paper presents a systematic study of the features seen in typical Nyquist plots (-imaginary vs. real impedance) for cement-paste/steel systems and discusses the assignment of each feature to its appropriate origin, e.g., bulk, contact, interface, product layer, etc. Assignments are made based upon as many considerations as possible—dc measurements, sample geometry, capacitance, local chemical modifications, alternative electroding schemes, etc. In addition to three distinct arcs from lowest (mHz) frequency to highest (MHz) frequency (due to product layer, interfacial reaction, and bulk, respectively), a fourth arc is sometimes observed between the bulk and interface arcs. When this occurs in paste-only systems, this arc is attributable to imperfect electrodes due to drying/shrinkage. In composite systems, e.g., cement with conductive chopped fibers added, this arc is clearly a “bulk” feature and an important indicator of microstructural inhomogeniety.
Magnetic/luminescent core/shell particles synthesized by spray pyrolysis and their application in immunoassays with internal standard

Many types of fluorescent nanoparticles have been investigated as alternatives to conventional organic dyes in biochemistry; magnetic beads also have a long history of biological applications. In this work we apply flame spray pyrolysis in order to engineer a novel type of nanoparticle that has both luminescent and magnetic properties. The particles have magnetic cores of iron oxide doped with cobalt and neodymium and luminescent shells of europium-doped gadolinium oxide (Eu:Gd2O3). Measurements by vibrating sample magnetometry showed an overall paramagnetic response of these composite particles. Luminescence spectroscopy showed spectra typical of the Eu ion in a Gd2O3 host—a narrow emission peak centred near 615 nm. Our synthesis method offers a low-cost, high-rate synthesis route that enables a wide range of biological applications of magnetic/luminescent core/shell particles. Using these particles we demonstrate a novel immunoassay format with internal luminescent calibration for more precise measurements.
Patterns of hopelessness among American Indian adolescents: Relationships by levels of acculturation and residence.

Poor mental health among American Indian adolescents has been a matter of significant concern for the past two decades. This study extends the literature on acculturation within this population by investigating the relationship between hopelessness, levels of acculturation, and residence among American Indian adolescents. Utilizing data drawn from 438 adolescents across 67 American Indian tribes, our analyses show that American Indian adolescents who have bicultural competence (i.e., those who are adept in both Indian and White cultures) have significantly less hopelessness than do those with adeptness in only one culture or in neither culture. Our findings also show a significant difference by residence, with American Indians who live on reservations indicating less hopelessness than those living in urban or rural/nonreservation areas. Analysis of interaction effects suggests that the beneficial effect of adeptness in White culture is particularly true for American Indians living in urban areas.
IMMOBILIZATION OF PAPAIN ON AN ANION EXCHANGE RESIN BY PHYSICAL ADSORPTION FOLLOWED BY CROSS LINKING WITH GLUTARALDEHYDE

A practical method involving physical adsorption by vacuum drying of papain on Dowex MWA-1 (mesh 20–50), followed by intermolecular cross linking with 1.0% glutaraldehyde under neutral pH conditions was developed. Potassium phosphate buffer (0.1 M, pH 12.5) was better for immobilization of papain than was acetate buffer (0.1 M, pH 4.0). Nitrogen recovery was increased by increasing the reaction time with glutaraldehyde from 0.5 to 15 min and enzyme concentration from 1 to 80 mg/0.3 mL buffer/0.2 g resin. Recovery of absolute and proteolytic activities, using casein as a substrate, was increased when reaction time was increased from 0.5 to 5 min. These activities were increased in a papain concentration range of 5 mg/0.2 mL buffer/0.2 g resin to 5 mg/0.3 mL buffer/0.2 g resin and then decreased with greater volumes of buffer, ranging from 11.2 to 8.6%. Relative activity recovery was decreased with an increase in reaction time and enzyme concentration, ranging from 40.5 to 7.5% and 47.5 to 1.5%, respectively. Cysteine (0.08 M) and EDTA (2 mM) enabled more than 95% of the original activity of immobilized papain to be maintained for 2 months at 5°C; NaHSO3 and ascorbic acid inactivated immobilized papain.
Arrhythmias: Epinephrine test for sudden cardiac death—is it too early?

Unexplained sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a major health problem, and prediction and identification of high-risk populations remain a challenge. Epinephrine stress testing could help to identify individuals at risk of SCD, but more research is required before this test could be recommended for routine use.
The effectiveness of two methods of delivering nutrition information to the general public

Abstract The objective of this study was to compare the effects of two different methods of delivering nutrition information. One method used two five-minute color videotapes developed by nutritionists and television production specialists. The other used a series of posters to accompany a five-minute lecture presented by a nutritionist. Both presentations covered the same material and both were intended to present information and initiate discussion. Members of six different community or civic groups participated in the study. Three of the groups were instructed via the lectures and posters ( n = 30), and three were instructed via the videotapes ( n = 34). We assessed participants' nutrition attitudes, nutrition knowledge, and certain food purchasing habits one month prior to the session, at the session, and three to four weeks after the session. To further evaluate the effectiveness of the session approaches, a trained observer attended the meeting to observe and record proceedings. We found that the two types of sessions produced similar results with respect to attitudes, behavior, and audience participation, but that the participants instructed via videotape learned and retained more nutrition information. The use of packaged informational videotapes coupled with „live" discussion and activities which reinforce or expand the topic may be a valuable and effective educational tool for nutrition educators.
Behaviour Modification with Disturbed Adolescents: The Role of the Occupational Therapist:

This paper reports on the work of the occupational therapist in a token economy system. The unit described specializes in the treatment of behaviourally disordered adolescents who have a mild to mo...
US doctoral students’ familiarity with accounting journals: insights into the structure of the US academy

Abstract The academic journal is the primary means through which a discipline defines its content and communicates that content among its members. In the last few years the number and diversity of accounting journals has grown quite substantially as the field of accounting takes on the low paradigm consensus characteristics of many other social sciences. This paper reports the results of a survey of doctoral students enrolled in US Ph.D. programs as to their familiarity with various journals reflecting the current intellectual diversity of the field. Results indicate that familiarity is generally low with anything other than the traditionally regarded “premier” journals, but it is lowest among those doctoral students enrolled in the most “elite” programs. The paper concludes with a discussion the implications of this lack of familiarity for doctoral education and for the progress accounting can make as an academic discipline.
Preionization-dependent families of radiative shock waves

Radiation shock waves are shown to be organizable into families within which the spectra are very similar. A high-velocity shock into neutral material is spectrally similar to a somewhat slower shock in fully ionized material. The similarities should allow the identification of the family to which an observed spectrum belongs, while spectral details permit subsequent identification of the separate values of shock velocity and preionization. By calculating shock spectra for the various families at constant recombination zone density, rather than constant preshock density, it is possible to separate the effects of 'velocity' (by which is meant postionization enthalpy per atom) from those of 'density' (by which is meant the degree of collisional deexcitation in the optical lines).
Defensiveness, anxiety and the amplitude/intensity function of auditory-evoked potentials

This study measured relationships between defensiveness, anxiety, and auditory-evoked potentials to tones of varied intensity. Subjects were designated as defensive if they scored > or = 7 on the L-scale of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, and high-anxious if they scored > or = 11 on the N-scale. Four groups resulted: 'high anxious', 'defensive high anxious', 'repressors' (i.e., defensive low anxious) and 'low anxious'. Evoked potentials were recorded from FZ, CZ, PZ, C3, C4, T3 and T4, referenced to linked ears in response to 74, 84, 94 and 104 dB SPL tones. High-defensive subjects showed lower P2 amplitudes to the 94 and 104 dB tones and lower amplitude/intensity slopes at FZ, CZ, C3 and C4. High-anxious subjects showed lower P2 amplitudes to all four stimulus intensities at FZ, CZ and PZ. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that defensiveness is associated with desensitization to intense or painful stimulation.
Multiple Transcription Factors Are Required for Activation of Human Interleukin 9 Gene in T Cells

The genetic elements and regulatory mechanisms responsible for human interleukin 9 (IL-9) gene expression in a human T cell leukemia virus type I-transformed human T cell line, C5MJ2, were investigated. We demonstrated that IL-9 gene expression is controlled, at least in part, by transcriptional activation. Transient expression of the luciferase reporter gene linked to serially deleted sequences of the 5'-flanking region of the IL-9 gene has revealed several positive and negative regulatory elements involved in the basal and inducible expression of the IL-9 gene in C5MJ2 cells. An AP-1 site at -146 to -140 was shown to be involved in the expression of the IL-9 gene. A proximal region between -46 and -80 was identified as the minimum sequence for the basal and inducible expression of the IL-9 gene in C5MJ2 cells. Within this region, an NF-kappaB site at -59 to -50 and its adjacent 20-base pair upstream sequence were demonstrated to play a critical role for the IL-9 promoter activity. DNA-protein binding studies indicated that NF-kappaB, c-Jun, and potentially novel proteins (around 35 kDa) can bind to this important sequence. Mutations at different sites within this proximal promoter region abolished the promoter activity as well as the DNA binding. Taken together, these results suggest that the cooperation of different transcription factors is essential for IL-9 gene expression in T cells.
Joint Report of the Second International Workshop on Lymphocyte Alloantigens of the Horse, held 3–8 October 1982

Summary Six equine lymphocyte alloantigen (ELA) specificities were defined by an international antiserum comparison test and workshop held in 1981. Twelve laboratories from four countries submitted 195 antisera for analysis. The antisera were exchanged among the 12 laboratories and tested in a standard lymphocyte microcytoxicity assay against the isolated lymphocytes at 1009 horses of several breeds. The data was pooled and analysed by a single computer analysis. The calculated χ2 values of all cells with all antisera provided comparisons between antisera. Fifteen antisera clusters were formed by this analysis, but only six of these clusters met the criteria established by the workshop for the identification of ELA antigens. No horses of the cell panel positively reacted with more than two of these six specificities. The consensus of the participants, although not substantiated in this workshop, was that these six clusters of antisera define alleles of a single genetic region, the ELA region, and it is likely that this genetic region is the major histocompatibility complex of the horse.
Factor Va increases the affinity of factor Xa for prothrombin: a binding study using a novel photoactivable thiol-specific fluorescent probe.

Abstract The multiprotein complex of factor Xa, factor Va, and prothrombin efficiently generates the blood-clotting agent, thrombin. Here, the formation of the factor Xa•prothrombin complex and the effects of factor Va on this complex were examined using a photoactivable thiol-specific fluorescent probe (LWB), which was synthesized and incorporated into the active site of factor Xa. The use of fluorescent LWB illustrated that factor Xa has an increased affinity for prothrombin in the presence of factor Va. Further exposure of these components to UV light resulted in a specific photocrosslinking of LWB-factor Xa to prothrombin, suggesting a physical association between these proteins. These data demonstrate that LWB can successfully function both as a spectroscopic probe and as a photocrosslinking reagent for studying protein-protein interactions.
Binding of RFX2 and NF-Y to the testis-specific histone H1t promoter may be required for transcriptional activation in primary spermatocytes.

The testis-specific linker histone Hit is transcribed exclusively in pachytene spermatocytes during spermatogenesis. The Hit promoter contains two imperfect inverted repeats which together comprise the X-box motif that is known to bind the transcription factor regulatory factor X (RFX). Out of all the histone H1 family promoters this motif appears only in the Hit promoter and may contribute to Hit tissue-specific expression. We show by Western blotting, EMSA, ChlP analysis, and real-time RT-PCR that the rat Hit X-box is bound by RFX2 in vivo in spermatocytes. We demonstrate that transcription factor NF-Y binds to the CCAAT-box motif that is located downstream and adjacent to the X-box and that testis NF-Y interacts either directly or indirectly with RFX2. Furthermore, we show that both the X-box and CCAAT-box are required for promoter activity and that co-expression of RFX2 greatly enhances testis histone Hit promoter activity in the GC-1 spg germinal cell line.
ACTUALITY, NECESSITY, AND LOGICAL TRUTH'

The traditional view that all logical truths are metaphysically necessary has come under attack in recent years. The contrary claim is prominent in David Kaplan's work on demonstratives, and Edward Zalta has argued that logical truths that are not necessary appear in modal lan- guages supplemented only with some device for making reference to the actual world (and thus independently of whether demonstratives like 'I', 'here', and 'now' are present). If this latter claim can be sustained, it strikes close to the heart of the traditional view. I begin this paper by discussing and refuting Zalta's argument in the context of a language for propositional modal logic with an actuality connective (section 1). This involves showing that his argument in favor of real world validity, his preferred explication of logical truth, is fallacious. Next (section 2) I argue for an alternative explication of logical truth called general validity. Since the rule of neces- sitation preserves general validity, the argument of section 2 provides a reason for affirming the traditional view. Finally (section 3) I show that the intuitive idea behind the discredited notion of real world validity finds legitimate expression in an object language connective for deep necessity.
Efficient molecular dynamics scheme for the calculation of dopant profiles due to ion implantation

We present a highly efficient molecular dynamics scheme for calculating the concentration depth profile of dopants in ion irradiated materials. The scheme incorporates several methods for reducing the computational overhead, plus a rare event algorithm that allows statistically reliable results to be obtained over a range of several orders of magnitude in the dopant concentration. We give examples of using this scheme for calculating concentration profiles of dopants in crystalline silicon. Here we can predict the experimental profile over five orders of magnitude for both channeling and nonchanneling implants at energies up to hundreds of keV. The scheme has advantages over binary collision approximation (BCA) simulations, in that it does not rely on a large set of empirically fitted parameters. Although our scheme has a greater computational overhead than the BCA, it is far superior in the low ion energy regime, where the BCA scheme becomes invalid.
Comparison of embryotoxicity of ESBO and phthalate esters using an in vitro battery system.

Abstract Epoxidized soy bean oil (ESBO) and phthalate esters have been used as a plasticizer in polyvinyl chloride products. In this study, the embryotoxicity of ESBO and phthalate esters, namely, diethyl hexyl phthalate (DEHP), butylbenzyl phthalate (BBP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) was evaluated using short-term in vitro battery system, such as the whole embryo, midbrain and limb bud culture systems. Whole embryos at gestation day 9.5 were cultured for 48 h and the morphological scoring was measured. The cytotoxic effect and differentiation for mid-brain (MB) and limb bud (LB) cell were assessed by 50% inhibition concentration (IC50) with neutral red uptake and hematoxylin-stained foci (MB) or Alcian Blue staining (LB), respectively. In the whole embryo culture assay, ESBO (83, 250 and 750 μg/ml) exerted no toxic effect on growth and development of the embryo, whereas phthalate esters (1, 10, 100 μg/ml for DEHP, 10, 100, 1000 μg/ml for BBP and DBP) inhibited growth and development dose dependently. In mid-brain and limb bud culture, the IC50 of differentiation and cytotoxicity in BBP was 412.24 and 231. 76 μg/ml for mid-brain, and 40.13 and 182.38 μg/ml for limb bud, respectively. The IC50 of differentiation and cytotoxicity in DBP was 27.47 and 44.53 μg/ml for mid-brain, and 21.21 and 25.54 μg/ml for limb bud cells, respectively. The lower IC50 in both cells was obtained from DBP when compared to BBP. From these results, limb bud cells responded more sensitively to BBP and DBP than mid-brain cells. The IC50 of limb bud cell differentiation and cytotoxicity in DBP is 1.9 and 7.1 less than that of BBP. However, any alteration in cytotoxicity and differentiation was observed with ESBO treatment. These studies suggested that ESBO is not embryotoxic; however, DEHP, BBP and DBP exhibit embryotoxic potential at high concentration.
Replacement of calcineurin-inhibitors with sirolimus as primary immunosuppression in stable cardiac transplant recipients

BACKGROUND Calcineurin-inhibitor (CNI) nephrotoxicity is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after cardiac transplantation. The aim of this study was to assess over 2 years the safety and effect on renal function of withdrawal of CNI immunosuppression and replacement with sirolimus (SRL) in stable cardiac transplant recipients. METHODS CNI was substituted with SRL in 78 cardiac transplant recipients (SRL group) of whom 58 (group A) had CNI-induced renal impairment (glomerular filtration rate [GFR] 50 mL/min). Fifty-one patients (CNI group) with renal impairment (GFR < or =50 mL/min) maintained on CNI served as controls. Secondary immunosuppressants were unchanged. RESULTS In the SRL group, GFR increased from 47.0+/-18.0 to 61.2+/-22.2 ml/min (P=0.0001) 24 months after SRL initiation. In Group A, GFR increased from 40.5+/-12.7 to 53.9+/-19.8 mL/min (P<0.0001). In Group B, GFR increased marginally from 67.2+/-15.8 to 83.5+/-27.8 mL/min (P=0.10). In the CNI group, GFR declined from 40.5+/-14.0 mL/min to 36.4+/-12.5 mL/min (P=0.23) after 24 months of follow up. There was no significant difference in cardiac rejection or cardiac allograft function. In SRL group, proteinuria increased from 299+/-622 mg/day to 517+/-795 mg/day (P=0.0002) 12 months after SRL initiation and then stabilized; it did not differ from CNI group at 24 months (637+/-806 vs. 514+/-744 mg/day, P=0.39). Uric acid decreased from 7.6+/-2.4 to 6.2+/-1.9 mg/dL (P=0.0007) in the SRL group. CONCLUSIONS Graduated substitution of CNI with SRL in cardiac transplant recipients is safe and improves renal function, without cardiac compromise.
A relationship between premolar loss and jaw elongation in selenodont artiodactyls

The jaw oflater selenodont artiodactyls is significantly longer, relative to jaw width and tooth size, than in the earliest members of this group. Although this change has a number of potentially beneficial effects, there is at least one adverse effect. A longer jaw reduces the width-to-length ratio, which eventually limits the length of the cheek tooth row at its anterior end. Buttressing the skull against torsional forces is best accomplished by tracts of bone that join the anterior and posterior divisions of the skull and that bridge the weak zone at the orbital region. As the jaw lengthens, some of the anterior premolars necessarily come to lie in front of the most anterior of these buttressing tracts. Bite force at these teeth cannot be transferred in an optimal manner from the anterior to the posterior divisions of the skull, torsion is less well resisted, and one or more anterior premolars are lost, even though there is more than enough space because of the presence of a long diastema.
On the base-dependence of sets of numbers recognizable by finite automata

It is known that the set of powers of two is recognizable by a finite automaton if the notational base used for representing numbers is itself a power of two but is unrecognizable in all other bases. On the other hand, the set of multiples of two is recognizable no matter what the notational base. It is shown that the latter situation is the exception, the former the rule: the only sets recognizable independently of base are those which are ultimately periodic; others, if recognizable at all, are recognizable only in bases which are powers of some fixed positive integer.
Nanocrystal Microemulsions: Surfactant-Stabilized Size and Shape

We formulate an analogy between thermodynamically stable water/oil microemulsions and surfactant-stabilized nanocrystal dispersions, with the goal of accounting for how specific sizes and shapes of nanocrystals might become dominant in equilibrared solutions of, for example, alkali halides or semiconductors in organic solvents. Qualitative estimates of the energetics-i.e., of the dependence of lattice energy on crystal dimensions-suggest that the size and shape distributions can be quite narrow, with their average properties controlled primarily by the solution composition, in particular the ratio of surfactant to crystalline species
A very-low-level gamma-ray analysis system for modest laboratories

Abstract A multidimensional gamma-ray spectrometer with innovative, low-cost pulse-height analysis system is described which is particularly adapted to use in modest laboratories. The system is well suited to measuring many kinds of geophysical and environmental samples. At present, it is set up to measure 26 Al in lunar and meteorite samples, and it is capable of measuring that radioisotope in such samples down to the order of 0.3 dpm/sample. Representative measurements are included on 26 meteorite samples.
Silymarin in the treatment of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis with a suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid.

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a safe and effective medical therapy for most patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), but some patients show an incomplete response. Silymarin is a potent antioxidant with immunomodulatory and antifibrotic properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and assess the efficacy of silymarin in patients with PBC who had shown a suboptimal response to UDCA. Twenty-seven patients with PBC who had been on UDCA (13-15 mg/kg/day) therapy for 7 to 221 months and had shown a persistent elevation of alkaline phosphatase activity at least 2 times the upper limit of normal for more than 6 months were enrolled. Oral silymarin, 140 mg 3 times daily was given for 1 year, and patients continued on the same dosage of UDCA. No significant changes in serum alkaline phosphatase activity (897 ± 84 vs. 876 ± 95, P = .5), total bilirubin (0.9 ± 0.1 vs. 1 ± 0.1, P = .07), aspartate transaminase (AST) (58 ± 5 vs. 56 ± 6, P = .4), albumin (4.0 ± .06 vs. 4.1 ± .06, P = .4), or Mayo risk score (3.82 ± 0.2 vs. 3.88 ± 0.2, P = .4) were noted after 1 year of treatment with combination therapy. Transitory gastrointestinal adverse events occurred in 2 patients. In conclusion, although silymarin was well tolerated, this medication did not provide benefit to patients with PBC responding suboptimally to UDCA. The results of this pilot study would seem to discourage further controlled trials of silymarin in patients with PBC.
Inferring 2D Object Structure from the Deformation of Apparent Contours

We present a new integrated approach to the two-dimensional part segmentation, shape, and motion estimation of moving multipart objects. Our technique exploits the relationship between the geometry and the observed deformations of the apparent contour of a moving multipart object and its structure. The novelty of the technique is that no prior model of the object or of its parts is employed.We develop aPart Segmentation Algorithm(PSA) that recursively recovers all the moving parts of an object by monitoring and reasoning over the changes of its deforming apparent contour. To parameterize and segment over time a deforming apparent contour, we fit initially a single deformable model whose global and local deformations over time allow us to hypothesize an underlying part structure. This hypothesis is verified by further monitoring the relative motion among the model's parts and the satisfaction of certain criteria. Upon verifying the part hypothesis, the initial deformable model is split into two or more models that better fit the apparent contour. This recursive operation allows the refinement over time of the number and shape of the extracted parts.When multiple deformable models are used to model the apparent contour of a multipart object, there is an uncertainty concerning the deformable model to which the data points should apply forces to. To address this problem, we present a new algorithm for force assignment that assigns forces from the data to multiple models. This algorithm allows partial overlap between the parts' models and the determination of their joint location. Finally, the effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated through a series of experiments involving a variety of objects.
Simplex optimization of reaction yields.

The sequential simplex algorithm, an efficient optimization strategy, rapidly improved reaction yield as a function of time and temperature in the synthesis of π-C 5 H 5 Mo(CO) 2 CSN(CH 3 ) 2. The work demonstrates the feasibility and efficiency of the simplex design and suggests its application and usefulness in other syntheses.
Evolutionary personality psychology: Reconciling human nature and individual differences

Personality, from an evolutionary perspective, represents a meta-category of the output of a suite of species-typical, relatively domain-specific, evolved psychological mechanisms designed in response to the social adaptive problems recurrently faced by our ancestors. This conceptualization of human personality provides for novel and valuable reinterpretations of several areas of personality psychology including personality consistency, individual differences in personality, sex differences and similarities, and contextual determinants of personality. Explaining human personality from an evolutionary perspective has led to discoveries about the function of social information conveyed through standings on the Big-Five personality dimensions and discoveries in topics such as social anxiety, jealousy, altruism, aggression, psychopathology, mate preferences, and desire for sexual variety. We argue that limitations of the application of evolutionary theory to personality science are surmountable and that, despite these limitations, large strides have been and will continue to be made through a union of personality science and evolutionary science.