cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
8 New amide local anaesthetics for obstetric use

For a number of reasons, bupivacaine has become the most frequently used local anaesthetic in obstetric anaesthesia, despite the fact that it has a narrower margin of safety than other local anesthetics. In recent years, advances in technology have made singleisomer formulations of drugs available for clinical use. Generally speaking, the levo stereoisomer of amide local anaesthetic has a lowe rpotential for systemic toxicity than the dextro form of the drug while retaining anaesthetic potency. Ropivacaine (Naropin ® , Astra Ltd), a homologue of mepivacaine and bupivacaine, has recently been released for use. Its clinical efficacy appears to be quite similar to that of bupivacaine but it has a greater margin of safety. The other drug currently being investigated is levobupivacaine (Chirocaine ® , Chiroscience Ltd). Both drugs appear to be similar in efficacy to the currently used formulation of bupivacaine; however, they are more costly. Thus, cost-benefit analyses are required to define more clearly their future role in obstetric anaesthesia.
A Hybrid Method for Haptic Feedback to Support Manual Virtual Product Assembly

Experience with current Virtual Reality (VR) systems that simulate low clearance assembly operations with haptic feedback indicate that such systems are highly desirable tools in the evaluation of preliminary designs, as well as virtual training and maintenance processes. The purpose of this research is to develop methods to support manual low clearance assembly using haptic (force) feedback in a virtual environment. The results of this research will be used in an engineering framework for assembly simulation, training, and maintenance. The proposed method combines voxel-based collision detection and boundary representation to support both force feedback and constraint recognition. The key to this approach is developing the data structure and logic needed to seamlessly move between the two representations while supporting smooth haptic feedback. Collision forces and constraint-guided forces are blended to provide support for low clearance haptic assembly. This paper describes the development of the method.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Mutations in the Activation Loop Tyrosine of the Oncoprotein v-Fps†

Mutations were made in the activation loop tyrosine of the kinase domain of the oncoprotein v-Fps to assess the role of autophosphorylation in catalysis. Three mutant proteins, Y1073E, Y1073Q, and Y1073F, were expressed and purified as fusion proteins of glutathione-S-transferase from Escherichia coli and their catalytic properties were evaluated. Y1073E, Y1073Q, and Y1073F have k(cat) values that are reduced by 5-, 35-, and 40-fold relative to the wild-type enzyme, respectively. For all mutant enzymes, the Km values for ATP and a peptide substrate, EAEIYEAIE, are changed by 0.4-2-fold compared to the wild-type enzyme. The slopes for the plots of relative turnover versus solvent viscosity [(k(cat))eta] are 0.71 +/- 0.08, 0.10 +/- 0.06, and approximately 0 for wild type, Y1073Q, and Y1073E, respectively. These results imply that the phosphoryl transfer rate constant is reduced by 19- and 130-fold for Y1073E and Y1073Q compared to the wild-type enzyme. The dissociation constant of the substrate peptide is 1.5-2.5-fold lower for the mutants compared to wild type. The inhibition constant for EAEIFEAIE, a competitive inhibitor, is unaffected for Y1073E and raised 3-fold for Y1073Q compared to wild type. Y1073E and Y1073Q are strongly activated by free magnesium to the same extent and the apparent affinity constant for the metal is similar to that for the wild-type enzyme. The data indicate that the major role of autophosphorylation in the tyrosine kinase domain of v-Fps is to increase the rate of phosphoryl transfer without greatly affecting active-site accessibility or the local environment of the activating metal. Finally, the similar rate enhancements for phosphoryl transfer in v-Fps compared to protein kinase A [Adams et al. (1995) Biochemistry 34, 2447-2454] upon autophosphorylation suggest a conserved mechanism for communication between the activation loop and the catalytic residues of these two enzymes.
Measuring the quality of echocardiography using the predictive value of the left ventricular ejection fraction.

Background One of the main challenges for imaging laboratories is demonstrating the quality of their studies. The aim of this study was to determine if echocardiographic training and experience are associated with the accuracy of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) reporting using all-cause mortality as the gold standard. Methods Survival was determined for consecutive patients undergoing echocardiography at one of four academic facilities. The relationship between LVEF and survival was determined for different groups of physician readers and sonographers on the basis of board certification and experience. Studies of physicians reading Results Data from 63,108 patients and 40 physicians were included. There was moderate variation across physicians in the relationship between LVEF and 1-year mortality (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve interquartile range, 0.56–0.64). The relationship between LVEF and 1-year mortality was stronger for physicians board certified in echocardiography (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.60; 95% confidence interval, 0.59–0.61) compared with those not certified (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.55–0.57; P Conclusions LVEF as determined by physicians board certified in echocardiography was associated with a stronger relationship with mortality than as determined by those not certified. The LVEF-mortality relationship may be useful as one measure of the quality of imaging.
Decoding techniques in state estimation for dynamic systems with past histories

States of dynamic models with a higher order memory are estimated using both a stack sequential decoding algorithm and the Viterbi decoding algorithm (VDA), without higher dimensional dynamic system representation. This results in memory reduction for state estimate implementation. It is found that state estimation with a stack sequential decoding algorithm is faster and more practical than the state estimation with the Viterbi decoding algorithm, even though the estimates obtained by the Viterbi decoding algorithm are superior. >
Managing alfalfa and berseem clover for forage and plowdown nitrogen in barley rotations

Annual legume plowdown systems, which utilize fall regrowth for N contributions to rotational crops, have not been adapted to irrigated, intermountain areas of the Northern Rockies. Our objective was to evaluate plowdown systems using 'Nitro' alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and 'Bigbee' berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.). These two legumes were grown under five harvest management systems (zero to three forage harvests prior to fall plowdown of regrowth, or a standard three harvest system with no herbage plowdown) at two sites in western MT differing in soil characteristics. They were assayed for forage and plowdown production and for N benefits to 'Clark' barley (Hordeum vulgare L. ; syn. H. distichon L.) for two subsequent years. Maximum herbage plowdown N was 125 to over 200 kg N ha -1 for berseem clover and 87 kg N ha -1 for alfalfa. A two-harvest system resulted in 3.6 to 66 Mg ha -1 forage and 45 to 78 kg N ha -1 in herbage plowdown. Effects of plowdown were measured directly in increased soil N availability and correlated increases in N uptake in subsequent barley ; benefits were expressed in increased grain yields and/or grain N concentrations and were apparent for two successive years at the site of lower native fertility. Alfalfa N benefits were superior to berseem clover, though disproportionate to herbage plowdown N quantities, possibly due to greater root and crown N in alfalfa. Where the management goal is primarily forage production with moderate benefit of plowdown N, berseem clover works well in a two-harvest system ; Nitro alfalfa is preferred where greater benefits of plowdown N are desired.
Turbulent Two-Phase Flow in Annular Seals

Steady, turbulent two-phase fluid flow in a rotating annular seal with no eccentricity is analyzed. The fluid is assumed to be a homogeneous mixture of liquid and vapor in thermodynamic equilibrum. Further, the flow is assumed to be adiabatic, but the effects due to heat generation by viscous dissipation are accounted for fully. Solution of the model governing differential equations is accomplished by use of a fourth-order Runge-Kutta numerical integration scheme. The calculation of mass leakage rates under choked and unchoked conditions are discussed and the phenomenon of all-liquid choked flow is explained. Several numerical examples are presented supposing cyrogenic oxygen as the sealed fluid.
783 IDENTIFICATION OF SERIOUS ILLNESS IN FEBRILE INFANTS ONDER 60 DAYS BY PEDIATRIC RESIDENTS: COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE “McCARTHY OBSERVATION SCALE” AND A SIMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE

A logistic regression based Observation Scale (O.S.) was shown by McCarthy et al to be a sensitive predictor of serious illness in children, when used by experienced pediatricians. A prospective study was begun in January 1984 to compare the predictive efficacy of the O.S. in comparison with a simple yes/maybe/no questionnaire (Q) when used by pediatric residents. Of 109 infants 15000/mm), the sensitivity of both the O.S. and Q increased. The simple Q was found to be better than the O.S. for identifying serious illness in febrile infants 60 days. The sophisticated O.S. may well be a good predictive tool only when used by experienced clinicians.
Carbon sequestration in dryland ecosystems.

Drylands occupy 6.15 billion hectares (Bha) or 47.2% of the world’s land area. Of this, 3.5 to 4.0 Bha (57%–65%) are either desertified or prone to desertification. Despite the low soil organic carbon (SOC) concentration, total SOC pool of soils of the drylands is 241 Pg (1 Pg = petagram = 1015 g = 1 billion metric ton) or 15.5% of the world’s total of 1550 Pg to 1-meter depth. Desertification has caused historic C loss of 20 to 30 Pg. Assuming that two-thirds of the historic loss can be resequestered, the total potential of SOC sequestration is 12 to 20 Pg C over a 50-year period. Land use and management practices to sequester SOC include afforestation with appropriate species, soil management on cropland, pasture management on grazing land, and restoration of degraded soils and ecosystems through afforestation and conversion to other restorative land uses. Tree species suitable for afforestation in dryland ecosystems include Mesquite, Acacia, Neem and others. Recommended soil management practices include application of biosolids (e.g., manure, sludge), which enhance activity of soil macrofauna (e.g., termites), use of vegetative mulches, water harvesting, and judicious irrigation systems. Recommended practices of managing grazing lands include controlled grazing at an optimal stocking rate, fire management, and growing improved species. The estimated potential of SOC sequestration is about 1 Pg C/y for the world and 50 Tg C/y for the U.S. This potential of dryland soils is relevant to both the Kyoto Protocol under UNFCCC and the U.S. Farm Bill 2002.
Recognizing partially occluded objects by a bidirectional associative memory neural network

We develop a bidirectional associative memory (BAM)-based neural network to achieve high-speed partial shape recognition. To recognize objects that are partially occluded, we represent each object by a set of landmarks. The landmarks of an object are points of interest relative to the object that have important shape attributes. To achieve recognition, feature values (landmark values) of each model object are trained and stored in the network. Each memory cell is trained to store landmark values of a model object for all possible positions. Given a scene that may consist of several objects, landmarks in the scene are first extracted, and their corresponding landmark values are computed. Scene landmark values are entered to each trained memory cell. The memory cell is shown to be able to recall the position of the model object in the scene. A heuristic measure is then computed to validate the recognition.
IFRS and the Financial Crisis

The Securities and Exchange Commission continues to encourage convergence of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and international financial reporting standards (IFRS)-despite the fact that IFRS did not stop the current financial crises in Greece, Spain, and other European countries. In fact, one study found that IFRS fair value accounting intensified the impact of the crisis. So why should the United States continue on the path to adopt IFRS? The authors examine how we've come to this point, the current financial crisis, and where we seem to be going. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asymptotic analysis of loaded, unstable, cylindrical resonators

I show that the solution of the electromagnetic equations for a loaded cavity with a large Fresnel number F (F > 100) can be obtained analytically. This asymptotic solution is obtained as a perturbation of the geometrical-optics solution, with edge-diffraction effects appearing as ripples of order 1/(F)1/2. The basic technique is to- obtain a series expansion of the relevant integrals in powers of 1/(F)1/2. This scheme works even better if the laser is operating in the saturated regime. This method of solution represents an extension of the method of Butts and Avizonis [ J. Opt. Soc. Am.68, 1072 ( 1978)], which is applicable to empty, cylindrical, unstable resonators.
Small-signal ac response of Ba1−xLaxF2+x crystals

Abstract The small-signal ac response of single crystalline Ba 1− x La x F 2+ x solid solutions has been studied in the temperature region 300–820 K, and in the frequency range 4×10 −2 –5×10 4 Hz. At low temperatures the frequency dispersion is dominated by processes in the bulk. Apart from the bulk conductance these processes include a dielectric response determined by broad distributions of dipole-like relaxations. The increase of the static dielectric constant with increasing solute content is explained. At higher temperatures the frequency dispersion reflects interfacial phenomena. In addition to an almost ideal interface capacitance, phenomena are observed which indicate the growth of a surface layer due to a reaction between the electrolyte, and residual oxygen and/or water vapour from the ambient.
Assessing habitat suitability at multiple scales: A landscape-level approach

Abstract The distribution and abundance of many plants and animals are influenced by the spatial arrangement of suitable habitats across landscapes. We derived habitat maps from a digital land cover map of the ∼ 178,000 km 2 Chesapeake Bay Watershed by using a spatial filtering algorithm. The regional amounts and patterns of habitats were different for species which occur in ‘woody’, ‘herbaceous’, and ‘woody-edge’ habitats. Habitat for finer-scale species (∼ 5 ha home ranges) was twice as abundant and more evenly distributed than habitat for coarser-scale species (∼ 410 ha home ranges) in a 11,000 km 2 sub-region. Potential impacts of land cover changes on habitats in different parts of the region were assessed by the frequency distributions of habitat suitability for smaller (∼ 3000 km 2 ) embedded watersheds. The methods described in this paper can be applied to several scales of digital land cover data, and used to derive multiple-scale habitat suitabilities for a number of species or guilds.
Hydrogen Sulfide Exposure and Human-Health Risk in Mining-Impacted Regions

Mining and mineral processing can potentially impact air, surface water and groundwater, creating multiple exposure routes and mechanisms, as well as a plethora of potential organic and inorganic contaminants. Sulfate contamination of surface and ground water from mining and processing operations is well-recognized and commonly monitored as a primary indicator of mining impacts to surface water and groundwater. Under conditions frequently found in natural waters, especially groundwater, sulfate can be reduced by naturally occurring sulfate-reducing bacteria, creating hydrogen sulfide. Worldwide, many communities that are adjacent to mining operations rely on groundwater as their primary potable water source, however, hydrogen sulfide gas is a largely unrecognized contaminant in these areas. This study of three communities in the central Appalachia region of the U.S. investigated sulfate and sulfide concentrations in water as well as sulfide concentrations in indoor air. This investigation finds that when drinking water aquifers are contaminated, this sulfide is liberated as a gas during domestic water use, creating conditions in mining community homes where short-term and long-term exposure can exceed applicable health standards. Additionally, other investigators have found connections between coal production and negative health consequences, including increased risk of respiratory diseases. Hydrogen sulfide is a contaminant associated with the same types of toxic effects as those found at increased prevalence in mining communities. Our investigation finds that this occurs at a concentration and frequency that warrants recognition by regulatory agencies and monitored as a commonly occurring mining-related contaminant and potential public health hazard.
Leptonic dipole moments in the left-right supersymmetric model

The observation of neutrino oscillations imposes a pattern of mixing in both the sneutrino and charged slepton sectors. On the other hand, the apparent 2.6\(\sigma \) deviation of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon from the standard model value favors a scenario beyond the standard model. We show that, in a supersymmetric model with left-right symmetry, which provides an explanation for both phenomena, the relationship between flavor conserving dipole moments, such as the magnetic and the electric dipole moments, and flavor violating dipole moments, such as \(\mu \rightarrow e \gamma, \tau \rightarrow \mu \gamma \) and \(\tau \rightarrow e \gamma\), is quite different from that in the MSSM. From general analytic considerations, we derive bounds on the fractional sneutrino mass splittings \(\delta_{\tilde{\nu}_e \tilde{\nu}_{\mu}}^2/m_{\tilde \nu}^2 \le 1.5 \times 10^{-5}\), and the fractional charged slepton splittings \(\delta_{\tilde e \tilde{\mu}}^2/m_{\tilde l}^2 \le 2 \times 10^{-2}\). For \(\tilde{\mu}-\tilde{\tau}\), the mixing is allowed to be maximal. We also comment on the magnitudes and correlations between CP-violating angles coming from electric dipole moments. We supplement the analytical considerations by detailed numerical calculations.
Tube analysis program

Summary form only given, as follows. Investigations on receiving-type electron tube processing methods were made because of high rate of electroh tube failures experienced in USAF electronic equipment subjected to high temperatures. The tube type selected for these investigations was the 6AR6 tried in two versions, distinguished from each other only by the processing and aging patterns applied. Both versions were subjected to a high temperature life test specified at 300°C bulb temperature. The result obtained was r~lated t.o the processing pattern applied in each of the versions tried. In the case of setting the transconductance slump at the limit of 10 per cent, the 6AR6 procegsed on the sealex exhaust system did not comply with the specified limit. It was found, however, that the 6AR6 subjected to an improved processing schedule was capab~g of complying with the specified limit. In following up these investigations, a project was initiated relating to the design and construction of an improved exhaust equipment incorporating advanced processing features and applicable to full scale electron tube production to be used for USAF electronic equipment operating at high temperatures. This project forms a part of the current USAF electron tube program aimed at continuously improving modern aircraft reliability.
Behavioural responses of selected marine fishes to chlorinated seawater

Abstract Behavioural responses to chlorinated seawater were studied in the laboratory using eight species of fish (topsmelt, Atherinops affinis [Ayres]; pile perch, Rhacochilus vacca [Girard]; senorita, Oxyjulis californica [Gunther] ; blacksmith, Chromis punctipinnis [Cooper]; northern anchovy, Engraulis mordax [Girard]; opaleye, Girella nigricans [Ayres]; bluebanded goby, Lythrypnus dalli [Gilbert] and mussel blenny, Hypsoblennius jenkinsi Jordan and Evermann) which occur near the Units 7 and 8 discharge of Southern California Edison's Redondo Beach Steam Generating Plant in King Harbor, California, USA. All species except Engraulis demonstrated prolonged avoidance of chlorinated quadrants of the behaviour chamber. The avoidance thresholds were species-specific and species totally avoided estimated total residual oxidant (TRO) concentrations from 0·094 to 0·456 mg/litre. Calculated significant avoidance thresholds averaged 0·066 mg/litre TRO; young Atherinops significantly avoided TRO concentrations as low as 0·028 mg/litre ( p Lythrypnus and Engraulis .
Critical elements in training university teachers

Abstract What is critical in training university teachers varies depending upon the stage of the teacher's career. For new entrants the most critical element is the development of basic skills, such as leading discussions, lecturing, testing and responding to student questions. With a modicum of proficiency the teacher's anxiety is reduced, which in turn reduces the anxiety of the students. After initial successes, or at least survival, the teacher can begin to appreciate training that involves consideration of the goals of education, course planning, knowledge about the nature of teaching and learning, and the context in which teaching will occur. Some of this knowledge can be obtained from reading, but discussions with peers and experts can also be helpful. Skills, however, need to be demonstrated and practised. With increasing expertise and positive feedback from students, motivation for teaching is enhanced.
Computer Programs for Absorption Spectrophotometry

Brief descriptions are given of twenty two modular computer programs for performing the basic numerical computations of absorption spectrophotometry. The programs, written in Fortran IV for card input and output, are available from the National Research Council of Canada. The input and output formats are standardized to permit easy interfacing to yield more complex data processing systems. Though these programs were developed for ir spectrophotometry, they are readily modified for use with digitized visual and uv spectrophotometers. The operations covered include ordinate and abscissal unit and scale interconversions, ordinate addition and subtraction, location of band maxima and minima, smoothing and differentiation, slit function convolution and deconvolution, band profile analysis and asymmetry quantification, Fourier transformation to time correlation curves, multiple overlapping band separation in terms of Cauchy (Lorentz), Gauss, Cauchy-Gauss product, and Cauchy-Gauss sum functions and cell path length determination from fringe spacing analysis.
A novel mouse model of isolated limb perfusion for extremity melanoma

Abstract Background Isolated limb perfusion (ILP) for extremity melanoma has been used clinically for over half a century. Mouse modeling of ILP may offer significant experimental advantages compared with existing models. We propose a novel mouse model and report our initial experience. Methods We injected female C57BL/6 mice (22–25 g) with 1 × 106 B16 melanoma cells subcutaneously in the distal right thigh. After 7 d of tumor establishment, we cannulated the superficial femoral artery (inflow) and vein (outflow) of anesthetized mice and placed a proximal tourniquet. Non-oxygenated perfusate included low-dose or high-dose melphalan and saline (control). We analyzed endpoints of cannulation time, procedural complications, morbidity, toxicity, and tumor response. Results We performed 11 superficial femoral vessel cannulations. Median cannulation time was 19 min (range, 15–32 min). Intact perfusion models were obtained in 10 of 11 cases (91%); one case failed owing to superficial femoral vein dissection. Morbidity rate was 20% (one wound dehiscence and one hematoma). Both high- and low-dose melphalan perfusion groups (4 mice/group) trended to growth delay and regression compared with saline-perfused groups. Toxicity was greater in the high-dose melphalan-treated mice. Conclusions We have established the first reproducible mouse model of ILP for melanoma. Future experiments will take advantage of the large number of established mouse knockout models and reagents to dissect the precise mechanisms of tumor control after ILP, and examine to novel agents.
Estimating the size of laterally phase separated cholesterol domains in model membranes with Förster resonance energy transfer: a simulation study

In this work, we use two vertically-coupled square two-dimensional lattices to simulate membrane bilayers containing a uniform size distribution of cholesterol immiscible domains of a predetermined size distribution. We substitute cholesterols and phospholipids with their fluorescent analogs and calculate the efficiency of energy transfer as a function of acceptor concentration for four membrane configurations. The simulated efficiency of energy transfer as a function of acceptor concentration data is then fit with an analytical FRET model to estimate the domain size, in the same manner in which experimental FRET data is analyzed. The fitted model parameters (domain size and donor partition coefficient) are compared to the simulation inputs to test the applicability of the FRET model to estimating the size of laterally phase separated cholesterol domains. We show that the FRET model yields good size estimates for domains that range between 1 and 25 nm. We also find that the assumed fluorophore configuration in the FRET model leads to a constant under-prediction of these values. Finally, we demonstrate that when two parameters are open to the fit, the FRET model adequately predicts the donor partition coefficient in addition to the domain size.
Semifields of dimension 2n, n?3, over GF(p m ) that have left primitive elements

We exhibit a class of non-associative division rings S of dimension 2n, n≥3, over GF(pm) such that the set of non-zero elements S#is generated by the left multiplications of a single element, that is, $$S^\# {\text{ = \{ 1, }}p \cdot 1,{\text{ }}p \cdot (p \cdot 1),...,{\text{ }}p(p( \cdot \cdot \cdot (p \cdot 1),...))\} $$ for some p ∈ S.
CT enterography and fistulizing Crohn's disease: clinical benefit and radiographic findings

Background To estimate the clinical benefit of CT enterography (CTE) in patients with fistulizing Crohn’s disease and describe the appearance of fistulas at CTE.
Determination of molecular-weight distribution of aorta glycosaminoglycans by automated gel filtration

Summary This report describes an automated gel filtration procedure for estimation of molecular weights of glycosaminoglycans using Technicon sugar analyzer. A Sepharose CL-6B column was used for gel filtration. The method has been applied to determining the distribution of molecular weights of glycosaminoglycans from human aorta. The glycosaminoglycans were fractionated on a Dowex 1 (Cl − ) column prior to gel filtration. On gel filtration, hyaluronic acid resolved into two components with estimated molecular weights of 38,000 and 8000. A molecular weight of 22,000 was estimated for heparan sulfate. Chondroitin 6-sulfate and dermatan sulfate eluted from the column in one peak, suggesting these two glycosaminoglycans have a similar molecular weight, 18,000. The procedure was found suitable for studying the gel filtration behavior of proteoglycans from bovine aorta and lung.
A dual label radiotracer technique for the simultaneous measurement of cerebral blood flow and the single-transit cerebral extraction of diffusion-limited compounds in rats.

An inexpensive method is described which permits simultaneous quantification of the cerebrovascular extraction (E) of diffusion-limited compounds and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in rats. This method involves the use of two radioisotopic tracers: (a) a diffusion-limited, test tracer such as [3H]water; and (b) a reference tracer. The reference tracer is also used in the measurement of CBF. In the development and validation of this technique, results using two different types of reference tracers were compared. The reference tracers employed were: (a) [14C]butanol, a flow-limited (i.e. freely diffusible) compound; and (b) [141Ce]microspheres which embolize in the cerebromicrocirculation. Inclusion of [3H]water in the injection bolus permitted simultaneous measurement of Ew using both butanol and microspheres as the reference as well as concomitant measurement of CBF. Both tracers provided estimates of these values which behaved physiologically with respect to increasing arterial CO2 content (paCO2). In addition, the simultaneous measurement of Ew and CBF permitted calculation of the effective permeability of water across the blood-brain barrier (PwS) which was discovered to increased with increasing paCO2.
Effect of Foliarly Applied Spirotetramat on Reproduction of Heterodera avenae on Wheat Roots

The cereal cyst nematode, Heterodera avenae, has the potential to reduce yields of cereal crops in the Pacific Northwest. Spirotetramat (Movento) is a foliar-applied insecticide with ambimobile translocation that reduces fecundity of sucking insects which feed on roots as well as foliage. Spirotetramat (88 g/ha) was applied to foliage during 2010 in two wheat fields infested by H. avenae near St. Anthony, ID and Palouse, WA. In Idaho, two applications at 2-week intervals during late spring to plants already exhibiting swollen white females reduced the postharvest density of H. avenae eggs plus juveniles by 35% (P = 0.03) compared to the nontreated control. In Washington, a single application before white females became apparent reduced the nematode density by 78% (P = 0.01). Grain yields and test weights were not significantly affected by application of spirotetramat at either location. In addition, symptomatic plants from the Idaho field were transplanted into greenhouse pots and treated with spirotetramat. One application (110 g/ha) reduced numbers of eggs plus juveniles/plant by 78% (P = 0.02). Spirotetramat effectively reduced H. avenae populations and warrants further evaluation as a substitute for crop rotations or long fallow periods that reduce nematode population densities in infested fields.
C'EST AND IL EST BEFORE A SUPERLATIVE

THE English language probably has no expression whose translation gives our students so much trouble as the very simple and very common "he is", "she is," "it is." When we speak of a leqon, "it is difficult" is translated by elle est difficile; when referring to a devoir, the same phrase becomes il est difficile, with a personal il; in translating "it is difficult to see how he can succeed," we again say il est difficile, but il now is an impersonal pronoun; finally, in "he will never succeed, it is too difficult," the same elusive "it is" changes to c'est. Complicating matters still further, "he is an American" may be expressed either by il est Americain or c'est un Americain, and "she is an American" by elle est Americaine or c'est une Anericaine. And now some people are so fond of complications that they have adopted a specia amendment to the effect that we should always say c'est "before a superlative." We are told that while the positive difficile may be predicated by c'est, or the impersonal il est, or a personal il est, or elle est, the last three alternatives automatically vanish as soon as difficile is used in the superlative. In one wording or another, unconditionally or with reservations, the "rule" is stated in a number of our grammars that only c'est is correct "before a superlative adjective." Eight very recent authors, sponsored by a long list of authorities, lay down their "rule" without even an inkling of possible exceptions. Five or six others teach the same rule, but these are less assertive; they hint at possible exceptions, or perhaps constructions which cannot be considered in an elementary book; they say that "ordinarily," or "commonly," or "in most cases," c'est displaces il est and elle est before a superlative. The question is also examined by an editor whose notes to various French texts aim to explain matters to which "little attention is given in ordinary grammars." In a long note to a Merimee story, this editor rules that c'est is required "before a superlative." Let us now see how the French themselves obey this "rule."
Engaging Millennial Students in Social Justice from Initial Class Meetings to Service Learning

This chapter argues that the affirmation of Millennial students' egos is an essential aspect of a social justice curriculum.
Enhanced processivity of RNA polymerase II triggered by Tat-induced phosphorylation of its carboxy-terminal domain

The protein Tat is encoded by the HIV-1 genome and is essential for viral replication because of its activation of viral transcription. Tat enhances the ability of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) to move long distances down the DNA through a poorly understood mechanism that involves its binding the to the 5' end of the nascent HIV-1 transcript. It has been suggested that the stimulation of transcript elongation by conventional DNA-binding activators may involve phosphorylation of the carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) of Pol II by the transcription factor TFIIH through the associated CAK kinase. Here we show that Tat-enhanced HIV-1 transcription in vitro requires both TFIIH and the CTD of Pol II. In addition, Tat, through its activation domain, both interacts with a functional TFIIH-containing complex and stimulates phosphorylation of a CTD-containing substrate by the TFIIH kinase. Under conditions that jointly restrict transcriptional elongation and TFIIH-mediated CTD phosphorylation, Tat stimulates both these activities. Furthermore, RNA synthesis is required for Tat to stimulate phosphorylation of the CTD when it is part of an initiation complex, as expected from Tat's interaction with viral transcripts. Thus, stimulation of Pol II elongation by Tat may involve direct effects on TFIIH-mediated CTD phosphorylation.
Suspended MIM Optical Waveguides with Optical Nano-Antennas

In this work we experimentally demonstrate suspended gold-air-gold (MIM) plasmonic waveguides operating at the NIR wavelengths. The waveguide interfaces with the far field using optical nano-antennas with main beams normal to the structure.
Effect of malnutrition on rat ovarian steroidogenesis

Abstract To investigate the effect of experimental protein-calorie malnutrition on rat ovarian function we examined the ovarian weights and activities of the five steroidogenic ovarian enzymes 3 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 β-ol), 17-hydroxylase (17-OH), 17,20-desmolase (17,20-D), 17-ketosteroid reductase (17-KSR), and aromatase in malnourished rats and controls. Adult rats were fed a restricted low protein diet for 30 days, whereas the controls were fed a regular diet ad libitum. Ovarian weights were significantly reduced in the experimental group. There was a significant decrease in the activity of the 3 β-ol enzyme in the malnourished rats as compared to the controls (58.8±2.3 vs 109.5±12 nmol/mg protein/min, P
Solar induced variations of odd nitrogen: Multiple regression analysis of UARS HALOE data

This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under grant ATM-0424840. Additional support from the NASA Living With a Star Research Program is also appreciated.
Sexual assault prevention programs for college-aged men: A critical evaluation

An unacceptably large percent of women experience sexual assault during their collegiate years and efforts to eliminate sexual assault exist in various forms at numerous universities. The only way to effectively decrease the occurrence of rape on college campuses is to stop the perpetrators. This review examined established sexual assault prevention programs designed for college men to determine if an ideal educational program exists, or if one can be established, to effectively change male attitudes and behaviors about sexual assault. A library search of scientific databases yielded seven studies, published from 2000 to 2007, that met inclusion criteria. Through a variety of interventions, a measurable number of formerly held attitudes about rape myth and the role of the bystanders in an assaultive situation were effectively changed immediately postintervention in several studies. In addition, one study demonstrated sustained behavioral change. These results can effectively be used to provide education for forensic and school-based nurses to guide practice for development of educational programs to successfully change harmful attitudes and beliefs that contribute to rape.
Phagolysosomal escape by intracellular pathogens

Abstract It has often been suggested that intracellular parasites invade cells in order to evade the host's immune response. Whether or not this view is correct, have successfully avoided excessive scrutiny by biomedical investigators. Published descriptions of the intracellular compartments occupied by parasites often contradict each other, reflecting the fact that the early events following host cell invasion remained, until recently, poorly understood. In this review, Norma Andrews and Paul Webster focus on what is now known about a dramatic transition that some parasites undergo after invading cells: escape from a membrane-bound vacuole into the cytosol. They discuss the information available on strategies for phagolysosomal escape of pathogens ranging from bacteria to protozoa, with emphasis on the cases in which the molecular mechanisms controlling this event have been investigated
Effects of discontinuous drooped wing leading-edge modifications on the spinning characteristics of a low-wing general aviation airplane

Wind tunnel and flight tests were conducted to determine the effects of several discontinuous drooped wing leading-edge configurations on the spinning characteristics of a light, single-engine, low-wing research airplane. Particular emphasis was placed on the identification of modifications which would improve the spinning characteristics. The spanwise length of a discontinuous outboard droop was varied and several additional inboard segments were added to determine the influence of such leading-edge configurations on the spin behavior. Results of the study indicated that the use of only the discontinuous outboard droop, over a specific spanwise area, was most effective towards improving spin and spin recovery characteristics, whereas the segmented configurations having both inboard and outboard droop exhibited a tendency to enter a flat spin.
Renormalized fermion propagator in hot gauge theories

Abstract The high temperature limit of the renormalized fermion propagator is calculated perturbatively for both massless and light, massive fermions. Collective excitations appear, for which the usual relation between chirality and helicity is flipped.
Present and Future Taxonomic Selectivity in Bird and Mammal Extinctions

We compared the distribution of historical bird and mammal species extinctions across genera and families with the distribution we would expect if these extinctions had occurred at random with respect to taxonomy. We then repeated the comparison for species listed in various categories of threat according to the 1996 Red List of the World Conservation Union. We found the distributions of extinctions and threat classifications to be almost always nonrandom—“selective”—with clustering in certain genera and families. Furthermore, extinctions tended to be clustered in taxa that contain few species; species in smaller genera tended to have higher probabilities of extinction. This tendency was strong for historical extinctions but was reduced or absent for some categories of threat. We attribute this to a change in the causes of extinction whereby predation and introduced species have been joined or superseded by widespread habitat loss. We then assessed the implications of this variable selectivity for the past and likely future losses of genera and families. In most cases, the number of lost taxa rises. Finally, we made predictions about minimum losses of taxa at specific dates in the future and showed that, despite the reduction in some forms of selectivity, we will still lose more taxa than if species extinctions were random. Selectividad Taxonomica Presente y Futura Extinciones de Aves y Mamiferos Se comparo la distribucion de las extinciones historicas de especies de aves y mamiferos con la distribucion que se esperaria si las extinciones hubieran ocurrido al azar con respecto a la taxonomia. La comparacion fue repetida para las especies incluidas en distintas categorias de riesgo en la Lista Roja de la UICN. En casi todos los casos se encontro que las distribuciones de las extinciones y de las categorias de riesgo no estaban distribuidas al azar, sin que fueron ‘selectivas,’ con distribucion agrupada en ciertos generos y familias. Se observo, ademas, que las extinciones tendieron a estar agrupadas en taxones que contienen pocas especies; las especies en generos mas pequenos tienden a tener mayores probabilidades de extincion. Esta tendencia fue fuerte para las extinciones historicas, pero reducida o ausente para algunas categorias de riesgo. Esto se atribuyo a un cambio en las causas de extincion, donde la predacion y las especies introducidas se han sumado o han sido reemplazadas por la gran destruccion de habitat. Se evaluaron luego las consecuencias de esta selectividad variable para las extinciones de generos y familias en el pasado y en un futuro probable. En la mayoria de los casos el numero de taxones extinguidos aumenta. Finalmente, se hicieron predicciones acerca de las extinciones minimas de taxones en el futuro, demostrandose que, a pesar de la reduccion en algunas formas de selectividad, se extinguiran mas taxones que si las extinciones fueran al azar.
Prevalence of tics in schoolchildren and association with placement in special education

Background: Based on the knowledge that Tourette’s syndrome (TS) is associated with several clinical features that can impair school function and growing evidence that the disorder is much more common than previously thought, the authors hypothesized that TS and related tic disorders would be associated with school problems in the childhood population at large. Methods: Direct, blinded (to educational placement) interviews of 1,596 schoolchildren in Monroe County, Rochester, NY, were conducted. Results: Twenty-seven percent of 341 students classified as receiving special education (SpEd) had tics compared with 19.7% ( p = 0.008) of 1,255 students in regular classroom programs (RegEd). The weighted prevalence estimates for tics were 23.4% in SpEd and 18.5% in RegEd. A higher percentage of students in SpEd (7.0%) met diagnostic criteria for TS than students in RegEd (3.8%; p = 0.01). Conclusions: Although possibly influenced by selection bias, our results indicate that tic disorders are common in children and are highly associated with school dysfunction. Tics may represent an identifiable sign of an underlying brain developmental disorder that contributes to academic difficulties.
Hypophagia follows the initial hyperphagia produced by 2-deoxy-D-glucose in rats.

Abstract The glucose analogue 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) inhibits glucose metabolism and causes a rapid increase in food consumption in most species. This increase is most apparent during the first 6 postinjection hours, although it may persist as long as 10 hr. There are no published descriptions of alterations in food consumption subsequent to the hyperphagia. In the present study male and female rats were injected with 2DG (750 mg/kg IP), insulin (regular, 20 U/kg SC) or distilled water, and food intake was compared to baseline levels during the next 1,6 and 24 hr. Results showed that food intake: (1) was not affected by injections of water: (2) was higher than normal during all 3 time periods following insulin injections: and (3) was higher than normal at 1 and 6 hr following 2DG, but significantly lower than normal by the end of 24 hr. The reasons underlying the development of hypophagia subsequent to the initial hyperphagia produced by 2DG are presently unknown.
Commentary: Expanding the Research Agenda on Interventions for Child and Adolescent Anxiety Disorders ☆

Abstract The articles in this series describe complementary programs of research and innovative approaches to extend evidence-based interventions for youth with anxiety in several important directions: to extend the target age range [Pincus, D. B., Santucci, L. C., Ehrenreich, J. T., & Eyberg, S. M. (2008-this issue). Treating separation anxiety disorder in young children: Exploring the additive impact of exposure on PCIT treatment outcome. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 15]; to extend interventions to more broadly defined target populations, including youth with co-occurring psychiatric symptoms [Weersing, V. R., Gonzalez, A., Campo, J. V., & Lucas, A. N. (2008-this issue). Brief CBT for pediatric anxiety and depression: Piloting an integrated treatment approach. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 15] and somatic symptoms [Reigada, L. C., Fisher, P. H., Cutler, C., & Masia Warner, C. (2008-this issue). An innovative treatment approach for children with anxiety disorders and medically unexplained somatic complaints. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 15]; to extend access in specific community-practice settings [Ginsburg, G. S., Becker, K., Kingery, J., & Nichols, T. (2008-this issue). Transporting CBT for childhood anxiety disorders into inner city school-based mental health clinics. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 15; Reigada, L. C., Fisher, P. H., Cutler, C., & Masia Warner, C. (2008-this issue). An innovative treatment approach for children with anxiety disorders and medically unexplained somatic complaints. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 15; Weersing, V. R., Gonzalez, A., Campo, J. V., & Lucas, A. N. (2008-this issue). Brief CBT for pediatric anxiety and depression: Piloting an integrated treatment approach. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 15]; and to extend access to these evidence-based approaches, in general [Khanna, M. S., & Kendall, P. C. (2008-this issue). Computer assisted CBT for child anxiety: The Coping Cat CD. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 15]. This commentary addresses how, collectively, these programs of research illustrate promising approaches to intervention adaptation and testing. The discussion also explores potential directions that might facilitate future research, including potential directions for broadening the interventions research agenda to help ensure that high-quality, evidence-based interventions are ultimately available to children and adolescents with anxiety.
Individual versus Group Feedback in Cooperative Groups

Abstract The impact of individual feedback was compared with the impact of group feedback on achievement, attitudes, and behavior in cooperative learning groups. Fifty-six American eighth-grade students studying German were randomly assigned to conditions stratified for academic ability and knowledge of the German language and culture. During an 11-week period, they worked in heterogeneous cooperative learning groups for 14 class sessions. They were trained in the social skills of praising, supporting, asking for information, giving information, asking for help, and giving help. Students received either individual or group feedback in written form only on how frequently members engaged in the targeted behaviors. Individual feedback was more effective than group feedback in increasing students' achievement motivation, actual achievement, uniformity of achievement among group members, and influence toward higher achievement within cooperative learning groups. Individual, compared with group, feedback result...