cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Community contributions to scholastic success

The authors examine the influence of neighborhood characteristics on the academic outcomes of children in middle childhood. Prior research has examined structural features of the community and has evaluated their associations with youth outcomes (Brooks-Gunn, Duncan, Klebanov, & Sealand, 1993; Kowaleski-Jones, 2000). Other research has related perceptions of community environment to youth development (Aneshensel & Sucoff, 1996). This work seeks to bridge these two streams of research by considering the influence of both objective and subjective measures of the community environment on school-aged children. Data are drawn from the 1990 Census and the 1997 Panel Study of Income Dynamics Child Development Supplement (PSID-CDS). Results indicate a negative influence of living in a community with low socioeconomic resources for academic achievement. In contrast, in some models, results suggest a positive role for living in a community rich in immigrant concentration for school-related behavioral adjustment and achievement outcomes. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lens Implantation in Patients with Glaucoma

Abstract Lens implantation can be performed successfully in patients with glaucoma, but the hazards include not only postoperative problems but also technical problems at the time of surgery. Glaucoma remains a relative contraindication to lens implantation.
A placebo controlled trial of bupropion for smoking cessation in schizophrenia

Background: Schizophrenic patients have high rates of cigarette smoking compared with the general population. We compared sustained-release (SR) bupropion with placebo for smoking cessation in patients with schizophrenic disorders. We also examined how antipsychotic class predicts smoking cessation outcomes with bupropion. Methods: Thirty-two subjects meeting DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and nicotine dependence were randomized to bupropion SR (BUP, 300 mg/day) or placebo (PLA). Outcomes included treatment retention, smoking abstinence rates, expired breath carbon monoxide (CO) levels, psychotic symptoms, and medication side effects. Results: Bupropion significantly increased trial endpoint 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence rates compared with placebo [BUP, 8/16 (50.0%), PLA, 2/16 (12.5%); χ2 = 5.24, df = 1, p < .05], and reduced CO levels during the trial [Medication × Time interaction; Z = 3.09, p < .01]. Positive schizophrenia symptoms were not altered by BUP, but negative symptoms were significantly reduced. Atypical antipsychotic drug treatment enhanced smoking cessation responses to BUP. Major side effects were dry mouth, gastrointestinal symptoms, headache, and insomnia. Conclusions: Our results suggest that 1) BUP enhances smoking abstinence rates compared with PLA in nicotine-dependent schizophrenic smokers; 2) BUP is well-tolerated and safe for use in these patients; and 3) atypical antipsychotics may enhance smoking cessation outcomes with BUP.
Design of seismic retrofit measures for concrete and masonry structures

Abstract The concept of seismic retrofit of older concrete and masonry structures possessing substandard seismic resistance using jackets or skins of composite fibres bonded with a polymer matrix to the surface is discussed. Results from extensive experimental research are presented to support simple design models enabling retrofit measures to be designed for enhanced shear strength, flexural ductility or lap-slice performance.
91. EFFECT OF INHIBITION OF MUCOSAL PROSTAGLANDIN (PG) SYNTHESIS ON MUCOSAL ADAPTATION FOLLOWING SMALL BOWEL RESECTION

We have shown that 16, 16 dimethyl PGE2 augments mucosal hyperplasia following massive small bowel resection in the rat. Likewise restricting dietary linoleic acid inhibits adaptation. PG may therefore be an important mediator of adaptation. We studied the effect of aspirin (ASA) inhibition of mucosal PG synthesis on mucosal adaptation following 70% proximal jejunoileal resection in 160g male Sprague-Dawley rats. Sixteen of 27 resected and 8 of 16 sham operated rats were given ASA 20mg/kg subcutaneously every 8 hours for 11 days following surgery; the remainder were given vehicle. Animals were fed a purified diet containing 5% linoleic acid ad lib. After 14 days, ex vivo mucosal PGE2, PGF2α, and thromboxane B2 synthesis, and mucosal weight, protein, DNA, and maltase levels were determined. PG synthesis rates are shown below Mean ± SEM (ng/g tissue/min.).
Museums in postcolonial Europe

edited by Dominic Thomas, London, Routledge, 2009, 144 pp., £80 (hardback), ISBN 978-0-415-56135-8. In a growing literature about postcolonialism in heritage studies, particularly from the stance o...
Interteach and Student Engagement in Political Science

“Interteach” is a method of guided discussion and feedback developed by Thomas Boyce and Philip Hineline in 2002. This method, primarily used in the psychology classroom, encourages greater student engagement and responsibility for learning by requiring extensive student preparation, peer-to-peer instruction, and peer evaluation. How can this method be used and modified for the political science classroom to increase students’ engagement and to improve students’ ability to synthesize complex arguments? In this article, we describe how to use the interteach method in political science and demonstrate its effectiveness in multiple classroom scenarios. The research is based on evidence from five different political science courses, ranging from the introductory-level to seminar-style classes.
Building a new partnership with India

U.S. attention toward New Delhi, before and after September 11, is increasing at the same time as four major transformations change India. The future of the relationship is not an alliance, but a selective partnership based on specific, common goals.
Kant on the construction and composition of motion in the Phoronomy

This paper examines the role of Kant's theory of mathematical cognition in his phoronomy, his pure doctrine of motion. I argue that Kant's account of how we can construct the composition of motion rests on the construction of extended intervals of space and time, and the representation of the identity of the part–whole relations the construction of these intervals allow. Furthermore, the construction of instantaneous velocities and their composition also rests on the representation of extended intervals of space and time, reflecting the general approach to instantaneous velocity in the eighteenth century.
Washington University experience with extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy of pancreatic duct calculi.

Objectives To ascertain the effectiveness and safety of extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for pancreatic calculi. Methods Fourteen ESWL treatments were performed in 12 patients with chronic pancreatitis. Results Fragmentation was perceptible after 13 of 14 treatments. Subsequent endoscopic manipulation resulted in complete extraction, partial extraction, and failed extraction of the fragments after 7, 4, and 2 of the ESWL treatments, respectively. No complications occurred and no patient had pancreatitis following ESWL. At a median follow-up of 19 to 22 months, 4 patients have had complete relief of symptoms, 4 have had a decrease in both severity and frequency of pain, and 4 have had no improvement. Conclusions ESWL is a safe and useful noninvasive adjunct in the treatment of patients with pancreatic duct calculi.
Four-index transformation on distributed-memory parallel computers

Un algorithme preliminaire est presente pour des machines a memoire distribuee. Il peut non seulement etre utilise sur certaines architecture communes, mais aussi utiliser certains avantages inherents de chacune de ces architectures. Cet algorithme permet d'economiser le temps de communication
The generation of memory B-cell subpopulations capable of proliferation and expansion of the pool: Effect of time and antigen☆

Abstract The ability of antigen to induce proliferation of memory B lymphocytes, thus perpetuating and expanding the memory cell pool, has been examined using an antibody-forming cell (AFC) assay. This method provided confirmation of previous studies in which serum antibody titer was used as a relative measure of pool size and demonstrated directly that the number of antibody-forming cells is increased. Memory cell subpopulations were prepared by lg velocity sedimentation from recently immunized donors (2 weeks) and tested for their ability to proliferate, thus expanding the memory cell pool. Both large and small immature DNP-specific memory cells displayed antigen-dependent and antigen-independent proliferation while mature cells (8 weeks postpriming) were capable only of antigen-dependent proliferation. Chicken γ-globulin (CGG) specific memory cells were also evaluated in this system and were found to differ from DNP-specific cells in several ways. (A) DNP-specific AFC were found to be concentrated in the spleen while CGG-specific AFC were found predominantly in the bone marrow early after transfer and in the spleen upon delayed challenge. (B) The rate of maturation of CGG-specific memory cells capable of antigen-driven proliferation and pool expansion was delayed in comparison to DNP-specific memory cells. The relationship of these functionally defined subsets to previously described memory cell subpopulations is discussed.
Prenomination preferences and general election voting behavior

Abstract This article tests a variation of the “carryover” hypothesis that hotly contested races for the presidential nomination often translate into increased levels of nonvoting and defection in the general election. Probit analysis of data from the 1988 American National Election Study suggests that independents who supported Gore or Robertson were less likely to vote than those who supported Bush or Dukakis. Voter turnout among partisans appears unaffected by prenomination preferences. Defection to the opposition party's candidate was, however, more frequent among Democratic backers of Gore and Hart, independents who supported Gore, and independents who supported Dole, Robertson, or Kemp. Republicans remained loyal to the Bush ticket regardless of their prenomination preferences. These findings suggest that hotly contested nominations often hurt the party in November, particularly among Democrats. We conclude with a discussion of recent Democratic party reforms which have attempted to lessen the likelihood of such party disunity.
Physicians and Corporations: A Corporate Transformation of American Medicine?

The failure to rationalize medical services under public control meant that sooner or later they would be rationalized under private control. Instead of public regulation, there will be private regulation, and instead of public planning, there will be corporate planning. . . . But a trend is not necessarily fate. Images of the future are usually only caricatures of the present. —Paul Starr, The Social Transformation of American Medicine
Architecture of the sperm cell of Psilotum

In this correlated SEM (scanning electron microscope) and TEM (transmission electron microscope) investigation, we describe architectural details of the multiflagellated sperm cell of Psilotum nudum. Comparisons with other pteridophytes are made to (1) assess the placement of Psilotum among pteridophyte taxa and (2) evaluate structural modifications of sperm cells during land plant evolution. The released spermatozoid of Psilotum coils 2.0 revolutions and is outlined by a parallel band of up to 190 microtubules. The elongated nucleus is highly compacted and parallels the cellular coils with numerous mitochondria and starch-laden plastids distributed along its length. Along the anterior coil is an elaborate locomotory apparatus that includes ∼36 flagella that are inserted into the cell by basal bodies. Subtending the basal bodies is the multilayered structure, which consists of a long narrow lamellar strip and an overlying band of microtubules. An elongated anterior mitochondrion underlies the multilayered structure. Additional amyloplasts and mitochondria are aggregated along the anterior coil in association with the locomotory apparatus, while a fibrous band encircles the leading edge of the cell. Salient features of this cell, including details of the locomotory apparatus, structure and position of organelles, and arrangement of the spline, are shared by spermatozoids of Equisetum and ferns (including eusporangiate and leptosporangiate taxa). Thus, this study provides morphological support for the hypothesis that Psilotum nudum is a member of an assemblage that includes ferns and Equisetum. However, the less streamlined architecture of Psilotum gametes and the lack of architectural features shared with any specific taxon examined to date suggest that Psilotum is an early divergent fern, with relatively remote affinities to Ophioglossaceae and Equisetaceae.
Synthesis, structure, and reactions of a nitroxyl complex of iridium(III), cis,trans-IrHCl2(NH=O)(PPh3)2.

Reaction of Ir(NO)(PPh3)3 with anhydrous HCl results in addition of 2 equivalents of HCl with formal protonation of the nitrosyl ligand, affording the unusual six-co-ordinate nitroxyl complex cis,trans-IrHCl2(NHO)(PPh3)2.
Interleukin-1β differentially affects interleukin-6 and soluble interleukin-6 receptor in the blood and central nervous system of the monkey

Two studies were conducted to investigate whether behavioral and physiological responses induced by administration of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) were also associated with changes in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and soluble IL-6 receptor levels (sIL-6R). Following intravenous injection of rhIL-1 beta, blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from juvenile rhesus monkeys. Marked increases in IL-6 levels were evident at 1 h in both blood and intrathecal compartments. IL-1 beta also induced significant elevations in the release of ACTH and cortisol into the blood stream, and following high doses, the monkeys evinced signs of sickness behavior. The second study characterized the IL-beta dose-response relationship showing that these physiological changes were most evident at doses between 0.5 microgram and 1.0 microgram IL-1/kg body weight. Soluble IL-6 receptor concentration was also increased, but only in plasma. There was no detectable sIL-6R in CSF. The large release of IL-6 into CSF suggests that some behavioral symptoms may be due to intrinsic changes in central nervous system activity concomitant with the alterations in peripheral physiology.
Morphologic and Histochemical Comparison of the Zygomatic, Lacrimal, and Sublingual Glands in the Female Golden Hamster

This study was initiated to characterize the hamster zygomatic gland and to differentiate it from the structurally similar lacrimal and sublingual glands. Hematoxylin and eosin stain was used for morphologic evaluation. The histochemical procedures employed were: PAS (with diastase and distilled water controls), aqueous toluidine blue (RNA-ase), Alcian blue, DMAB, S-acid, and DDD. The site of drainage of secretion products was also established.
Are typically-developing siblings of children with an autism spectrum disorder at risk for behavioral, emotional, and social maladjustment?

Abstract Existing literature regarding the adjustment of siblings of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains inconclusive, with some studies showing positive adjustment, others showing negative adjustment, and others showing no difference when compared to siblings of typically-developing children. For the current study, 42 parents of a child with an ASD and a typically-developing sibling (ASD group) and 42 parents of two typically-developing siblings (control group) provided data via online questionnaires. Both diagnostic category and autism symptom severity were tested as possible moderators, but neither produced significant interactions with either externalizing behaviors or internalizing symptoms in the target child when predicting externalizing behaviors, internalizing symptoms, or social problems in the sibling. However, across the overall sample (ASD and control groups), maladjustment – particularly internalizing symptoms – in the target children significantly related to maladjustment in their siblings. Thus, these findings suggest that having a sibling with an ASD is neither a risk nor protective factor for maladjustment among typically-developing siblings above and beyond the relation between maladjustment among siblings in general. Given some of the mixed findings in the literature, other possible moderators that may put siblings of a child with an ASD at specific risk should be considered in future research.
Detrital modes of late Precambrian-early Paleozoic sandstones across Newfoundland: Do they constrain Appalachian tectonic models?

This paper summarizes petrologic work on late Precambrian and Cambrian sandstone suites sampled from the Humber, Piedmont, Gander, and Avalon zones of Newfoundland. Sandstone framework mineralogy was analyzed to answer the question: Does sandstone mineralogy, which primarily reflects sedimentary provenance (the size, shape, composition, relief, and location of source areas) and plate-tectonic setting (proximity to passive or active continental margins), also sharply constrain tectonic models developed to explain an orogenic system? The answer is no! Newfoundland sandstone compositions are clearly compatible with conventional "Wilson cycle" models that relate the Appalachians to the opening and closure of an ocean basin, which juxtaposed continental shelf (Humber) and continental rise (Piedmont) assemblages of the North American margin with coeval shelf (Avalon) and rise (Gander) units of the African or Avalon margin. A more complex and radically different evolution involving the accretion of terranes, mainly by displacement of microcontinental blocks and adjacent sedimentary basins along large-scale, strike-slip transform faults, however, could generate identical sandstone compositions.
Interstellar scintillation and compact sources in supernova remnants

Interstellar scintillation was detected from a source in or near the supernova remnant G78.1 + 1.8, implying an angular size ≲10−6 arc s, a brightness temperature >1018 K, and a distance of ∼3 kpc. The source does not seem to be a pulsar and is therefore the first source other than a pulsar to show interstellar scintillation. We place limits on the scintillating flux for 15 other galactic and extragalactic objects.
Reliability of topographic quantitative EEG amplitude in healthy late-middle-aged and elderly subjects.

Reliabilities of quantitative measures of absolute and relative EEG amplitudes were assessed in healthy older adults under the eyes closed (n = 46) and eyes opened (n = 45) conditions. For the theta, alpha, beta1, and beta2 bands, reliabilities of 28 scalp derivations were stable over the 4.5 month test interval. Reliabilities of delta were lower. When appropriate transformations were applied, the reliabilities of absolute EEG amplitude measures tended to exceed those of relative measures. There were not, however, striking differences in reliabilities under the eyes closed, as compared to eyes opened condition. We concluded that when coupled with the criterion of interpretability, the generally higher reliabilities of absolute, as opposed to relative, amplitude measures render them preferable in clinical research.
hMSH2-hMSH6 forms a hydrolysis-independent sliding clamp on mismatched DNA

Mismatch recognition by the human MutS homologs hMSH2-hMSH6 is regulated by adenosine nucleotide binding, supporting the hypothesis that it functions as a molecular switch. Here we show that ATP-induced release of hMSH2-hMSH6 from mismatched DNA is prevented if the ends are blocked or if the DNA is circular. We demonstrate that mismmatched DNA provokes ADP-->ATP exchange, resulting in a discernible conformational transition that converts hMSH2-hMSH6 into a sliding clamp capable of hydrolysis-independent diffusion along the DNA backbone. Our results support a model for bidirectional mismatch repair in which stochastic loading of multiple ATP-bound hMSH2-hMSH6 sliding clamps onto mismatch-containing DNA leads to activation of the repair machinery and/or other signaling effectors similar to G protein switches.
One hundred in situ split-liver transplantations: a single-center experience

Objective: To identify predictors of graft and recipient survival from a single-institution series of in situ split-liver transplantations and compare outcomes to living donor and whole organs for adults and children. Background Data: Split-liver transplantation is a surgical technique that creates 2 allografts from a single cadaver donor. We have applied split-liver transplantation to all indications and categories of medical urgency for initial as well as retransplantation to expand the current donor pool and decrease reliance upon living donation. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of 100 consecutive in situ split-liver transplantations yielding a left lateral segment and right trisegment graft that were performed at the University of California Los Angeles between 9/91 and 02/03. These 100 transplantations generated 190 allografts for transplantation into 105 children and 60 adults, with the sharing of 25 allografts among transplant centers across the United States. Outcomes and incidence of complications were compared with living donor and whole organ recipients receiving liver transplantation during the same time period with independent predictors of split-liver graft and recipient survival identified by multivariate analysis. Results: The incidence of biliary and vascular complications observed in recipients of left lateral segment grafts created by split-liver transplantation was not statistically different from recipients of left lateral segment grafts created from living donation or children receiving whole-organ grafts from pediatric donors. Kaplan-Meier survival estimations of left lateral segment graft and recipient survival also demonstrated no statistical difference among split-liver, living donor, and whole-organ recipients. Right trisegment grafts from split-liver transplantation demonstrated a 10% incidence of biliary and 7% incidence of vascular complications. Long-term graft function was excellent with patient and graft survival equal to 1086 recipients of cadaver whole-organ grafts from donors ages 10-40 years who underwent transplant operations during the same time period. Predictors of split-liver transplantation graft and recipient survival included United Network for Organ Sharing status at transplantation, indication, occurrence of a complication, donor creatinine, and donor length of hospitalization. Conclusions: Split-liver transplantation is an effective mechanism for immediate expansion of the cadaver donor pool that can reduce dependence upon living donation in adults and children.
A local theory for the calculation of overall creep strain of particle-reinforced composites

Abstract An analytical model is developed to study the evolution of stress field in the creeping matrix during the high-temperature deformation of a particle-reinforced composite, and, by which, to determine the development of creep strain of the two-phase system. The method presented here is based upon the combination of Eshelby's stress-free transformation process, Mori-Tanaka's mean-field theory, and Luo and Weng's local solution of a three-phase, spherically concentric solid. Though approximate in nature, it is capable of considering the elastic inhomogeneity between the constituent phases, and the primary and secondary creep of the ductile matrix under a combined stress state. Specific results are illustrated for the distribution of the tensile stress component and von Mises' effective stress under an external tension. Such a local approach is believed to be more rigorous when the matrix creeps nonlinearly, and, therefore, the predictions of the overall creep-strain can also serve to assess the accuracy of the meanfield approach. It turns out that, for a power-law matrix with a stress exponent of 4.74, the diffences between the two are generally within a tolerable range even up to a particle concentration of 30%. One may conclude that, for the calculation of the overall creep strain for this class of composites, the simpler, mean-field approach is still a reasonable one unless the stress exponent or the particle concentration is very high.
Clonal analysis of helper and effector T-Cell function in neonatal transplantation tolerance: Clonal deletion of helper cells determines lack of in vitro responsiveness

Mice rendered tolerant at birth of H-2 alloantigens display concordant in vivo and in vitro phenotypes: they fail to reject skin grafts bearing the tolerated antigens, and their lymphoid cells fail to participate in tolerogen-specific mixed lymphocyte reactions (MLRs) and cell-mediated lympholysis (CML). Tolerant animals normally reject third-party skin allografts and develop positive MLRs and CML to third-party antigens. It has been suggested that clonal deletion of antigen reactive cells is the basis for this spectrum of responses. To investigate further the basis for the lack of in vitro alloreactivity, we conducted limiting dilution studies with lymph node cells from adult mice tolerant of various H-2 disparities. When the frequencies of (a) cells responding to the tolerogen in MLR and (b) interleukin-2-producing cells against the tolerogen were determined, it appeared that both types of cells were functionally deleted, that is, the frequency of cells responding to tolerogen-bearing stimulator cells was identical with that of cells stimulated with syngeneic cells. On the assumption that cells from H-2 tolerant mice are deficient in helper cell activity toward the tolerogen, we performed CML cultures under conditions in which exogenous help was provided in the form of supernatants derived from concanavalin A stimulated rat spleen cell cultures. Lymphoid cells from H-2 tolerant mice generated significant cytotoxicity toward the tolerogen under these conditions, although the absolute level of killing was reduced compared with that of cells from normal mice. Limiting dilution assays confirmed that Tc precursors were present in tolerant mice, and that they were reduced to less than 10% of normal numbers; however, tolerogen-specific Tc precursors were present in frequencies significantly greater than self-reactive Tc precursors. These data indicate that a deletion mechanism operates in neonatal transplantation
Early diagnosis of inherited metabolic disorders towards improving outcome: the controversial issue of galactosaemia

Galactosaemia due to galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency is a rare disease (1:40,000). Nationwide newborn screening for galactosaemia is performed in many countries; however, several countries do not screen for galactosaemia due to early manifestation of clinical symptoms and low incidence of the disease. In a German retrospective study, 148 galactosaemic patients born between 1955 and 1995, were evaluated. At least in Germany, newborn screening for galactosaemia, performed at day 5, was able to reduce or prevent the acute morbidity and mortality of the disease. The results should be even better if newborn screening takes place at day 3 using combined substrate screening and enzymatic testing for galactose-1-phosphate-uridyltransferase deficiency. Conclusion:newborn screening for classical galactosaemia does not change the long-term complications of the disease such as speech disorders, mental retardation, ataxia and in females hypergonadotropic hypogonadism.
Long-term survival in patients with coronary artery disease: Importance of peripheral vascular disease

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to determine the importance of peripheral arterial disease in predicting long-term survival in patients with clinically evident coronary artery disease. Background. Patients in the Coronary Artery Surgery Study (CASS) Registry were followed up for >10 years. Methods. Survival in 2,296 patients with peripheral arterial disease was compared with that of 13,953 patients without peripheral arterial disease using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. All patients had known stable coronary artery disease. Clinical, electrocardiographic (ECG), chest X-ray film and catheterizalion variables of the two groups were compared using the chi-square statistic or the two-sample t test. The independent effect of peripheral arterial disease (as well as other variables) on mortality was determined utilizing a Cox proportional hazards model. Results. Patients with peripheral vascular disease were more likely to have hypertension, diabetes, family history of coronary artery disease, previous angina or myocardial infarction, previous coronary bypass surgery or to have smoked. They also had a higher incidence of congestive heart failure, ECG abnormality and modestly increased frequency of three-vessel disease. Independent correlates of long-term mortality for the entire cohort included age, smoking, diabetes, number of diseased coronary vessels, left ventricular function, hypertension, pulmonary disease, anginal class, previous myocardial infarction and peripheral vascular disease (all p < 0.061). At any point in time, patients with peripheral vascular disease had a 25% greater likelihood of mortality than patients without peripheral vascular disease (multivariate chi-square 25.83, hazard ratio 1.25, 95% confidence interval 1.15 to 1.36, p < 0.0001). Conclusions. Peripheral vascular disease is a strong, independent predictor of long-term mortality in patients with stable coronary artery disease. Aggressive attempts at secondary disease prevention are warranted in this high risk group.
Fine-grained data access control for distributed sensor networks

Distributed sensor networks are becoming a robust solution that allows users to directly access data generated by individual sensors. In many practical scenarios, fine-grained access control is a pivotal security requirement to enhance usability and protect sensitive sensor information from unauthorized access. Recently, there have been proposed many schemes to adapt public key cryptosystems into sensor systems consisting of high-end sensor nodes in order to enforce security policy efficiently. However, the drawback of these approaches is that the complexity of computation increases linear to the expressiveness of the access policy. Key-policy attribute-based encryption is a promising cryptographic solution to enforce fine-grained access policies on the sensor data. However, the problem of applying it to distributed sensor networks introduces several challenges with regard to the attribute and user revocation. In this paper, we propose an access control scheme using KP-ABE with efficient attribute and user revocation capability for distributed sensor networks that are composed of high-end sensor devices. They can be achieved by the proxy encryption mechanism which takes advantage of attribute-based encryption and selective group key distribution. The analysis results indicate that the proposed scheme achieves efficient user access control while requiring the same computation overhead at each sensor as the previous schemes.
Characterization of Forested Landscapes from Remotely Sensed Data Using Fractals and Spatial Autocorrelation

The characterization of forested landscapes is frequently required in civil engineering practice. In this study, some spatial analysis techniques are presented that might be employed with Landsat TM data to analyze forest structure characteristics. A case study is presented wherein fractal dimensions (FDs), along with a simple spatial autocorrelation technique (Moran’s I), were related to stand density parameters of the Oakmulgee National Forest located in the southeastern United States (Alabama). The results indicate that when smaller trees do not dominate the landscape (<50%), forested areas can be differentiated according to breast sizes and thus important flood plain characteristics such as ratio of obstructed area to total area can be estimated from remotely sensed data using the studied indices. This would facilitate the estimation of hydraulic roughness coefficients for computation of flood profiles needed for bridge design. FD and Moran’s I remained fairly constant around the values of 2.7 and 0.9 (resp.) for samples with either greater than 50% saplings or less than 50% sawtimber and with ranges of 2.7–2.9 and 0.6–0.9 as the saplings decreased or the sawtimber increased. Those indices can also distinguish hardwood and softwood species facilitating forested landscapes mapping for preliminary environmental impact analysis.
Chorea-acanthocytosis: A report of three new families and implications for genetic counselling

Chorea-acanthocytosis (CHA) is a rare inherited neurologic disorder with peripheral red cell acanthocytes and normal serum lipoprotein levels. To date, 8 families with the disorder have been reported outside of Japan. We describe 4 patients in 3 families with CHA and review the clinical presentations in previous reports. In addition, we report magnetic resonance imaging scans in these patients. The pattern of inheritance in these families is most likely autosomal recessive. Obligate heterozygotes do not have acanthocytes on wet preparation under phase microscope. Two of 3 propositi were initially diagnosed as having Huntington chorea. Chorea-acanthocytosis is an important differential in the diagnosis of Huntington chorea and should be considered in families without a family history. The paucity of families with CHA reported to date may represent lack of recognition.
Comparative genomics provides evidence for the 3-hydroxypropionate autotrophic pathway in filamentous anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria and in hot spring microbial mats

Stable carbon isotope signatures of diagnostic lipid biomarkers have suggested that Roseiflexus spp., the dominant filamentous anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria inhabiting microbial mats of alkaline siliceous hot springs, may be capable of fixing bicarbonate via the 3-hydroxypropionate pathway, which has been characterized in their distant relative, Chloroflexus aurantiacus. The genomes of three filamentous anoxygenic phototrophic Chloroflexi isolates (Roseiflexus sp. RS-1, Roseiflexus castenholzii and Chloroflexus aggregans), but not that of a non-photosynthetic Chloroflexi isolate (Herpetosiphon aurantiacus), were found to contain open reading frames that show a high degree of sequence similarity to genes encoding enzymes in the C. aurantiacus pathway. Metagenomic DNA sequences from the microbial mats of alkaline siliceous hot springs also contain homologues of these genes that are highly similar to genes in both Roseiflexus spp. and Chloroflexus spp. Thus, Roseiflexus spp. appear to have the genetic capacity for carbon dioxide reduction via the 3-hydroxypropionate pathway. This may contribute to heavier carbon isotopic signatures of the cell components of native Roseiflexus populations in mats compared with the signatures of cyanobacterial cell components, as a similar isotopic signature would be expected if Roseiflexus spp. were participating in photoheterotrophic uptake of cyanobacterial photosynthate produced by the reductive pentose phosphate cycle.
Stress gradients in the walls of large arteries

Abstract Elastic behavior of vascular wall, assuming the vessels to be ‘thick-walled’ and utilizing finite deformation theory, was investigated. It was found that canine carotid arterial wall is neither isotropic nor transversely isotropic. Previously, stress-strain relations were obtained for carotid arteries on the basis of membrane theory (Doyle and Dobrin, 1971). Since strain gradients across the wall are fairly steep, the applicability of such expressions, for pointwise evaluation of stress, required examination. The study indicated that these relationships between mean circumferential stress and mean extension ratio in the circumferential direction could be used to relate the specific circumferential stress value to the specific extension ratio at any designated point within the wall. From this analysis it was possible to evaluate circumferential and radial wall stresses. Both of these stresses are maximal at the inner surface of the intima. At this point the radial stress is equal to the transmural pressure and is compressive, while the circumferential stress is tensile and is 1·5 to 2 times the value of the mean stress, i.e. the product of transmural pressure and the ratio of internal radius-to-wall thickness. Both stresses are lowest at the outer edge of the adventitia. These stress distributions were considered with respect to the spacing of the elastic lamellae and the absence of discernible vasa vasora in the inner third of the wall.
Polypropylene/polysulfone compatibilized blends

Polypropylene and polysulfone have not been previously blended because of viscosity and processing temperature differences. These blends, which showed structure-property improvements with the addition of functional polyolefins, were made into environmentally friendly membranes. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 13:143–146, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
A paleomagnetic record from Pyramid Lake, Nevada, and its implications for proposed geomagnetic excursions

Abstract A well-dated, 3.3-m section of deep-lake clays from pluvial Lake Lahontan, now exposed along the shore of Pyramid Lake, Nevada, has provided a paleomagnetic record of secular variation during the time interval 25,000–36,000 years B.P. The measured ranges of inclination and declination are 40° and 75°, respectively, and represent values which are comparable to observed secular variation at northern mid-latitudes. These results and those from a previously reported study from Clear Lake, California, together provide strong evidence for the conclusion that northern California and western Nevada were not affected by any geomagnetic excursion during the time interval 21,000–36,000 years B.P. Such a conclusion puts severe constraints on the nature and timing of the proposed Mono Lake, Laschamp and Lake Mungo geomagnetic excursions.
The Many Faces of Hypertension, Environmental and Genetic Theories

Hypertension may be caused in many different ways. The cause may be purely environmental, and in essential hypertension may include prolonged external stress. The genetic cause is postulated to involve defective proteins in vascular smooth muscle, especially those affecting calcium and potassium transport. Compensatory kinetic homeostasis may be responsible, at least in part, for increased disappearance of infused tritiated norepinephrine and its metabolites from plasma and urine in essential hypertension, and for the finding of increased plasma norepinephrine in that disease. Together with smooth muscle hypertrophy and hyperplasia it also explains increased reactivity to angiotensin II and normal reactivity to prednisone in essential hypertension; and it accounts for the high incidence of hypertension in hypercalcemic states.Gross kinetic homeostasis involves chiefly the baroreceptors, auto-regulation, and hormones, the most important of which are the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone systems. Other hormones...
Strong genetic clines and geographical variation in gene flow in the rocky intertidal barnacle Balanus glandula

A long-standing issue in marine biology is identifying spatial scales at which populations of sessile adults are connected by planktonic offspring. We examined the genetic continuity of the acorn barnacle Balanus glandula, an abundant member of rocky intertidal communities of the northeastern Pacific Ocean, and compared these genetic patterns to the nearshore oceanography described by trajectories of surface drifters. Consistent with its broad dispersal potential, barnacle populations are genetically similar at both mitochondrial (cytochrome oxidase I) and nuclear (elongation factor 1-alpha) loci across broad swaths of the species' range. In central California, however, there is a striking genetic cline across 475 km of coastline between northern and southern populations. These patterns indicate that gene flow within central California is far more restricted spatially than among other populations. Possible reasons for the steep cline include the slow secondary introgression of historically separated populations, a balance between diversifying selection and dispersal, or some mix of both. Geographic trajectories of oceanic drifters closely parallel geographical patterns of gene flow. Drifters placed to the north (Oregon; approximately 44 degrees N) and south (Santa Barbara, California; approximately 34 degrees N) of the cline disperse hundreds of kilometers within 40 days, yet over the long-term their trajectories never overlapped. The lack of communication between waters originating in Oregon and southern California probably helps to maintain strong genetic differentiation between these regions. More broadly, the geographical variation in gene flow implies that focusing on species-level averages of gene flow can mask biologically important variance within species which reflects local environmental conditions and historical events.
Novel Hot Spot of IS6110 Insertion in Mycobacterium tuberculosis

We describe a hot spot for the insertion of IS6110 in Mycobacterium tuberculosis located in the area of region of difference 724 (RD724). Because RD724 defines sublineage 724 of M. tuberculosis, caution must be exercised when screening for RD724, as different polymorphisms can be observed in this region.
Recent changes in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar runs in the light of environmental changes in the Saint John River, New Brunswick, Canada

Abstract Deterioration of water quality as a result of the disposal of untreated organic and toxic wastes into the Saint John River Basin began when the River was first settled in 1604, and the amount of waste entering the River has increased substantially over the past two decades. Hydroelectric power developments constructed on the main stem of the River during this recent period have added to the problem by reducing the biological assimilative capacity of the River. The significance of these cultural influences for Atlantic Salmon ( Salmo salar ) in the River has been to reduce the quality of its migration route to and from the sea, to eliminate some of its freshwater spawning and rearing areas, and to cause direct mortality of adult and juvenile Salmon. As a consequence, the total Salmon stock in the Saint John River has declined by approximately 40 per cent over the past two decades. The future prospects for conserving this valuable natural resource in the Saint John River are moderately bright in view of current activities in water pollution abatement, effective regulation of the Salmon fisheries, and large-scale artificial propagation.
Antitumor Agents XXXIV: Mechanism of Action of Bruceoside a and Brusatol on Nucleic Acid Metabolism of P‐388 Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells

The quassinoids bruceantin, brucein D, brucein E, bruceoside A, and brusatol significantly inhibited P-388 lymphocytic leukemic cell RNA and protein synthesis in tissue culture. However, DNA synthesis inhibition seemed to correlate more directly with the anti-neoplastic activity of these compounds in the in vivo P-338 survival system. In vitro, brusatol and bruceoside A marginally inhibited 10-day P-388 lymphocytic leukemia DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase, thymidylate synthetase, dihydrofolate reductase, phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate aminotransferase, and cathepsin protease activities. In vivo studies demonstrated similar inhibition and elevated cyclic AMP levels, correlating positively with the antineoplastic activity of individual compounds. Purine synthesis was inhibited drastically by brusatol in vivo, and one key inhibition site in purine synthesis was at phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate aminotransferase, the regulatory enzyme. Histone phosphorylation and ribonucleotide reductase activity also were inhibited marginally by brusatol.
Real and perceived similarities in personality between spouses: test of "likeness" versus "completeness" theories.

Summary.--Cattell and Nesselroade (1967) examined the hypothesis that the personality structures of spouses enjoying a stable marriage were more similar to each other than the personalities involved in an unstable marriage. An alternate hypothesis would be that personalities tend to complement each other in stable marriages bur not so in unstable marriages. Results were in favor of the former "likeness" hypothesis as more positive correlations between personality variables were found in a stably married group than in an unstably married group. This present study attempted to test the above hypotheses on a new group of Ss and, in addition, examined the relationships among personality variables in terms of perceived similarities becween spouses. Results supporced the "likeness" theory of spouse-spouse personality comparisons. Cattell and Nesselroade (1967) examined what they termed "likeness and completeness theories" by administering Cattell's Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire, to stably acd unstably married couples. Essentially, the results indicated that stably married couples (defined as couples who had never sought the assistance of a marriage counselor) exhibited significant and positive correlations for 8 of the 16 personality factors. In contrast, the unstably married group (defined as those ~ho had sought assistance from marriage counselors) shared three significantly negative correlations and only two positive correlations. Specifically, the stably married group showed significantly positive correlations on Factors B (intelligence), C (ego strength ) , F ( surgency ) , G (super-ego), H (venturesomeness), M (imaginativeness), Q1 (radicalism) and Q3 (self-sentiment). The unstably married group, on the other hand, showed significantly positive correlations on Factors 0 (guilt proneness) and Q1 (radicalism), and negative correlations for Factors A (warm heartednea), F (surgency) and L (suspicion). Cattell and Nesselroade concluded from these results chat the "likeness principle" rather than the "completeness principle" was operating within the stably married group. The present study provides a check on the above results for the stably married group and also examines perceived differences in personality as well as real differences (real in the sense that S reports himself to be this way). Four major comparisons are made: (1) Husbands' self-ratings are correlated with the wives' self-ratings; (2) Self-ratings of each S are correlated with the spouse's rating of S; (3) Self-ratings of each S are correlated with ratings of how the spouse chinks he will be rated. The first. comparison provides a measure of what will be termed "Real" personality similarity, the second comparison a meas