cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of Polyethylene Glycol-Induced Cell Fusion of HEp2 Cells by Lectins

SummaryConcanavalin A (Con A) and wheat germ agglutinin were tested for their ability to inhibit the polyethylene glycol-in-duced fusion of HEp2 cells. The inhibitory effect of these lectins was related to the concentration of lectins employed. Further studies with Con A revealed that the inhibition was also related to the available receptor binding capacity and the timing of the addition of the lectin. The presence of lectins in the early phase of the cell fusion process prevented the polyethylene glycol-treated cells from undergoing a fusion process.
Factors influencing uptake of intrauterine devices among postpartum adolescents: a qualitative study

Objective We assessed barriers and facilitators to uptake of the intrauterine device (IUD) among primiparous African American adolescent mothers. Study Design Twenty participants who expressed IUD desire completed 4-5 qualitative interviews during the first postpartum year as part of a larger longitudinal study. Transcripts were analyzed for salient themes using a grounded theory approach to content analysis. Results Twelve participants did not obtain IUDs and instead used condoms, used no method, or intermittently used hormonal methods, resulting in 3 repeat pregnancies. Outdated IUD eligibility requirements, long wait times, lack of insurance coverage, and fear of IUD-related side effects precluded or delayed uptake. Facilitators to IUD uptake included strong recommendations from providers or family members, planning for IUD during pregnancy, and perceived reproductive autonomy. Conclusion Postpartum adolescents may reduce their risk of rapid repeat pregnancy by using IUDs. Providers and members of adolescents' support networks can be instrumental in method adoption.
The Regulation of Notch Signaling Controls Satellite Cell Activation and Cell Fate Determination in Postnatal Myogenesis

We have studied the role of Notch-1 and its antagonist Numb in the activation of satellite cells during postnatal myogenesis. Activation of Notch-1 promoted the proliferation of myogenic precursor cells expressing the premyoblast marker Pax3. Attenuation of Notch signaling by increases in Numb expression led to the commitment of progenitor cells to the myoblast cell fate and the expression of myogenic regulatory factors, desmin, and Pax7. In many intermediate progenitor cells, Numb was localized asymmetrically in actively dividing cells, suggesting an asymmetric cell division and divergent cell fates of daughter cells. The results indicate that satellite cell activation results in a heterogeneous population of precursor cells with respect to Notch-1 activity and that the balance between Notch-1 and Numb controls cellular homeostasis and cell fate determination.
Measurement of Surface Energy Fluxes from Two Rangeland Sites and Comparison with a Multilayer Canopy Model

Rangelands are often characterized by a patchy mosaic of vegetation types, making measurement and modeling of surface energy fluxes particularly challenging. The purpose of this study was to evaluate surface energy fluxes measured using three eddy covariance systems above and within two rangeland vegetation sites and use the data to improve simulations of turbulent energy fluxes in a multilayer plant canopy model: the Simultaneous Heat and Water (SHAW) model. Model modifications included adjustment of the wind profile roughness parameters for sparse canopies, extending the currently used K-theory approach to include influence of the roughness sublayer and stability functions within the canopy, and in a separate version of the model, introducing Lagrangian far-field turbulent transfer equations (L theory) in lieu of the K-theory approach. There was relatively little difference in simulated energy fluxes for the aspen canopy using L-theory versus K-theory turbulent transfer equations, but L theory tracked canopy air temperature profiles better during the growing season. Upward sensible heat flux was observed above aspen trees, within the aspen understory, and above sagebrush throughout the active snowmelt season. Model simulations confirmed the observed upward sensible flux during snowmelt was due to solar heating of the aspen limbs and sagebrush. Thus, the eddy covariance (EC) systems were unable to properly quantify fluxes at the snow surface when vegetation was present. Good agreement between measured and modeled energy fluxes suggest that they can be measured and simulated reliably in these complex environments, but care must be used in the interpretation of the results.
From internal imbalances to global imbalances: a survey on the causes of China’s export-led growth

There is a broad consensus that China’s export- and investment-led growth model is unsustainable and therefore needs to become more balanced. In the public debate, Chinese exchange rate interventions are mostly made (solely) responsible for this. But it is unclear whether and how much the Renminbi is undervalued, and if an exchange rate appreciation helps to reduce China’s current account surplus significantly. This survey reviews the international literature on China’s export-oriented growth model. Internal structural imbalances in the Chinese economy, resulting in an extremely low consumption-to-GDP share by historical and international standards, play hereby a central role. Related to this are: 1) the drop in household and wage income as a share of GDP and low employment growth, and its impact on consumption demand; 2) the increase in income uncertainty and inequality, and its impact on household savings; and 3) the role of government spending, i.e., high and increasing public surpluses. The central po...
Morphological instabilities induced by ultrathin films on W(111)

Abstract Using ultrahigh vacuum surface science methods, we find that the atomically rough W(111) surface coated with ∼ 1 monolayer of certain metals (Pt,Pd,Au,…) undergoes extensive restructuring to form a highly faceted surface with pyramidal microfacets after annealing to T > 750 K. The dominant facet orientation is W{211}, and facet dimensions range from ∼1–100 nm. Not all metal monolayer films cause faceting of W(111): metals having Pauling electronegativities > 2.0 (Pt,Pd,Ir,Rh,Au) induce faceting of W(111) upon annealing, whereas those with electronegativities less than 2.0 (Ti,Co,Ni,Cu,Ag) do not. Electronic effects appear to be the driving factors in the observed morphological instability of W(111).
AT-101 downregulates BCL2 and MCL1 and potentiates the cytotoxic effects of lenalidomide and dexamethasone in preclinical models of multiple myeloma and Waldenström macroglobulinaemia

Multiple myeloma, the second most common haematological malignancy in the U.S., is currently incurable. Disruption of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway by BCL2 and MCL1 upregulation is observed in >80% of myeloma cases and is associated with an aggressive clinical course. Remarkably, there is no approved drug with the ability to target BCL2 or MCL1. Thus, we investigated the anti-tumour effects of a pan-BCL2 inhibitor, AT-101, which has high binding specificity for BCL2 and MCL1 in preclinical models of plasma cell cancers (Multiple myeloma and Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia). Gene expression and immunoblot analysis of six plasma cell cancer models showed upregulation of BCL2 family members. AT-101 was able to downregulate BCL2 and MCL1 in all plasma cell cancer models and induced apoptotic cell death in a caspase-dependent manner by altering mitochondrial membrane permeability. This cytotoxic effect and BCL2 downregulation were further potentiated when AT-101 was combined with lenalidomide/dexamethasone (LDA). NanoString nCounter mRNA quantification and Ingenuity Pathways Analysis revealed differential changes in the CCNA2, FRZB, FYN, IRF1, PTPN11 genes in LDA-treated cells. In summary, we describe for the first time the cellular and molecular events associated with the use of AT-101 in combination with lenalidomide/dexamethasone in preclinical models of plasma cell malignancy.
The definition of chemical diabetes

The natural history of diabetes mellitus can be arbitrarily divided into four stages based on the presence or absence of abnormal carbohydrate metabolism. Overt diabetes is the most advanced stage, characterized by elevated fasting blood glucose concentration and classical symptoms. This stage is divided into ketotic and nonketotic forms. Preceding overt diabetes is the latent or chemical diabetic stage, with no symptoms of diabetes but demonstrable abnormality of oral or intravenous glucose tolerance. Subclinical diabetes is an earlier stage when glucose tolerance is abnormal only with stress, such as pregnancy or the administration of cortisone. The earliest stage, prediabetes, extends from conception until the first demonstrable abnormality in glucose tolerance. In groups of presumed prediabetic individuals, delayed and/or decreased plasma insulin response to glucose has been noted. Progression of the diabetes may not occur, may occur very slowly or very rapidly, and regression to an earlier stage of abnormality may also occur. B EFORE PROCEEDING WITH A DEFINITION of chemical diabetes, we need to review the stages in the natural history of the disease in order to put the stage of chemical diabetes in proper perspective. Any classification of genetic diabetes mellitus must be somewhat arbitrary, as is the classification that we have employed for a number of years.l Table 1 presents a scheme depicting the natural history of diabetes as divided into four stages.’ This classification is based on the presence or absence of abnormalities of carbohydrate metabolism. Overt or frank diabetes is the most advanced of these stages. Classical symptoms of the disease may be present: There is fasting hyperglycemia; a glucose tolerance test is not necessary for diagnosis. This stage of the disease has been subdivided into the nonketotic and ketotic forms of the disease. The preceding stage is latent or chemical diabetes. A latent diabetic is an individual who has no symptoms referable to the disease but in whom a definite diagnosis of diabetes can be established by presently accepted laboratory procedures. The fasting blood glucose level may be elevated but is usually normal. However, the oral or intravenous glucose tolerance test is definitely abnormal, whatever the criteria for an abnormal glucose tolerance test may be. An earlier stage is subclinical diabetes. 2 Here, not only the fasting blood sugar level but also the glucose tolerance test is normal under usual circum
Electron Linac Instabilities

This paper attempts to summarize the present state of understanding of electron linac instabilities which result in beam loss along the accelerator. The major emphasis is placed on the type of instability which is caused by cumulative interaction of the beam with a multisection accelerator, as distinguished from the effect observed in short high-current accelerators where the instability is due to local regenerative interaction. The manifestations of the effect are first described and physical models are proposed. The properties of the HEM11 mode which is responsible for the instability are discussed in detail. Following, a short summary of the Panofsky theory is presented to illustrate various scaling laws which have been verified experimentally on the SLAC accelerator. Measured results are also compared with a detailed computer study made by R. Helm and agreement is generally found to be very good. After the discussion of beam break-up gain, a few conjectures are presented on the possible starting mechanisms of the effect. In conclusion, the program presently underway at SLAC to increase the current threshold of the instability is outlined and early results of this program are presented.
On the choice of step size in subgradient optimization

Abstract This paper recommends some procedures for the selection of step sizes in the context of subgradient optimization. The first of these procedures is developed in detail in this study and is a theoretically convergent scheme. This method has two phases, the first phase is designed to accelerate the solution procedure towards an optimal solution, while the second phase helps to close in on an optimal solution. A second technique recommended is a simple-minded scheme which, although not theoretically convergent, seems to be computationally very efficient. These two methods are shown to compare favorably with Held, Wolfe and Crowder's scheme for prescribing step sizes. We also suggest some modifications of the latter scheme to make it computationally more efficient.
HABIT PLANES OF PLATELIKE SCHREIBERSITE IN HEXAHEDRITES

We have measured the habit planes of plate rhabdites [(Fe, Ni)3P] with respect to the parent kamacite phase (α, Fe-Ni) in eight hexahedrites. This was accomplished using x-ray diffraction plus two-surface trace analysis. Results show that plate rhabdites form on either {001} or {122} planes in the parent kamacite. The meteorite Uwet exhibits a {112} habit plane which is possibly an anomaly due to the occurrence of a large shock event during rhabdite nucleation (∼ 550–650 °C).
Raindrop Size Distribution with Collision Breakup in an Axisymmetric Warm Cloud Model.

Abstract The effect of the collision breakup process, as described by McTaggart-Cowan and List (1975), on the raindrop size distribution and rainfall intensity in warm clouds was studied using an axisymmetric cloud model (Takahashi, 1977). The cloud model demonstrates that with collision breakup the raindrop concentration decreases sharply in the large raindrop size range and exhibits a pronounced secondary maximum, at a drop size defined as the “peak drop” size, within the normal raindrop size range. The concentration at the peak raindrop size is consistent with that measured in natural warm cloud rainfall, and is much larger than the concentration obtained from computer simulations which do not include the collision breakup process.
Analysis of Paul Butler's Race-Based Jury Nullification and His Call to Black Jurors and the African American Community

Paul Butler argues that due to disparate impact on African Americans in the criminal justice system, African American jurors ought to exercise their right of nullification when there are African Am...
Practice Summaries: American Airlines Uses Should-Cost Modeling to Assess the Uncertainty of Bids for Its Full-Truckload Shipment Routes

We used decision analysis to develop a probabilistic model to help American Airlines assess the uncertainty of bid quotes for its full-truckload (FTL) point-to-point freight shipments of maintenance equipment and in-flight service items in the United States. The model reduced the airline's risk of overpaying an FTL supplier.
Simulation of Blast-Head Interactions to Study Traumatic Brain Injury

This paper presents a methodology for predicting the mechanical damage inflicted on the brain by a high explosive (HE) detonation and leading to traumatic brain injury (TBI). A brain model, with its complexity, is used in the computational procedure. The processes of HE detonation and shock propagation in the air, as well as their interaction with the head, are modeled by an Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian (ALE) multi-material formulation, together with a penalty-based fluid/structure interaction algorithm. This methodology provides intracranial pressure and maximum shear stress within the microscale time frame for this highly dynamic phenomenon. Two scenarios are simulated. In one scenario, the brain is in close proximity to a 1lb trinitrotoluene (TNT) explosion, and the other to a 0.5lb explosion. The resulting countercoup intracranial pressure-time histories, from the 1 lb TNT explosive scenario, demonstrates that pressure falls below −100 kPa. This can cause cavitation bubbles and damage to the brain tissue. The simulations also predict that the areas of high pressure and shear stress concentration are consistent with those of clinical observations. These resulted intracranial pressure and shear stress responses are the parameters to examine against injury criterions thresholds.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop for Condensation of Refrigerant R410A at Near-Critical Pressures

This paper presents the results of an experimental study of heat transfer and pressure drop during condensation of refrigerant R410A inside a horizontal 9.4 mm I.D. tube. The experiments were conducted at nominal pressures of 80% and 90% of the critical pressure of R410A. A novel technique that addresses the conflicting requirements imposed by the need for accurate measurement of low heat transfer rates for the small quality increments, and delineation of the tube-side heat transfer coefficient from the overall resistance, was used. Local heat transfer coefficients and pressure drops were measured for the mass flux range 200 < G < 800 kg/m2 -s in small quality increments over the entire vapor-liquid region, spanning several different two-phase flow regimes. These data were compared with the heat transfer and pressure drop data obtained under similar conditions for R404A by Jiang and Garimella [1]. The data were also compared with available correlations for condensation heat transfer according to the applicable flow regime to assess the validity of these models for refrigerant blend condensation at near-critical pressures. Possible explanations for deviations between the data and the models in the literature are also provided.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Fluoxetine for Binge Eating Disorder: Two‐year Follow‐up

Objective: This study assessed the long-term effects of group behavioral treatment plus individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and/or fluoxetine in binge eating disorder (BED) patients. Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 116 individuals were randomized to an initial five-month trial and were followed up over two years. Assessments, including binge frequency, weight, and self-report measures, were administered at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and ∼6, 12, 18, and 24 months after initial treatment. Results: Across treatment groups, there was overall improvement over 29 months in binge frequency and in binge abstinence. The odds of binge abstinence 2 years post-treatment were 1.373 times the odds of binge abstinence immediately post-treatment. There was no significant change in weight over the two-year period. Subjects who received individual CBT evidenced lower binge frequency over the two-year follow-up period than patients who had not received individual CBT. Similarly, CBT was associated with increased rates of binge abstinence. There were no main effects of treatment assignment on weight over the two-year follow-up period. There was a significant advantage for fluoxetine assignment over the two-year follow-up period on depressive symptoms. Discussion: The major significance of the study rests in its examination of the long-term effects of standardized interventions for BED. Our findings provide support for the ideas that short-term treatment may confer long-term benefit and that not all treatments are equivalent in the benefits they confer.
Early successional patterns and potential facilitation of woody plant colonization by rotting logs in premontane Costa Rican pastures.

We examined the size, species, location (x and y coordinates), and microsite inhabited by colonizing trees and shrubs in five abandoned pastures in southern Costa Rica. All woody stems greater than 1 m tall in the pastures were measured and mapped, from the overhanging forest edge to 50 m into the abandoned pasture. Species composition of colonists differed substantially among pastures: Croton draco (Euphorbiaceae) dominated one site, two species of Miconia (Melastomataceae) another site, and Verbesina tapentiensis (Asteraceae) a third site. Site 4 had the highest cover of rotting logs (11%), and a four-fold greater density of colonizing woody plants than the site with the next highest colonist density. For all species pooled, and for several individual taxa, density was positively correlated across sites with abundance of log microsites. Four of the six most common woody species in site 4 occurred on logs significantly more often than expected had they been randomly distributed relative to logs. Site 5 had less abundance of logs, but the common Miconia species was again significantly more likely to be found on log microsites. These results strongly suggest that rotting wood microsites facilitate establishment of bird-dispersed pioneer trees, which in turn could foster regrowth of other forest species.
Testicular reaction to prolonged exposure to nitrous oxide.

Maie LEW/f Mai rats were exposed to an atmosphere of 20 per cent N2O, 20 per cent O2, and 60 per cent N2 for a maximum of 35 days. Evidence of injury to the seminiferous tubules was found in some animals by the second day By 14 days, such damage was found in all animals, the toxic effect was confined to the spermatogenic cells, with consequent reduction in mature spermatozoa and appearance of multinucleated forms, Other cells within the testes were resistant to damage. Recovery of spermatogenesis occurred apparatus. after return to room air for more than three days, Serum testosterone levels were not significantly affected during the prolonged exposure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging–Targeted Prostate Biopsy: Back to the Future

Since the introduction of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening, the lifetime risk of being diagnosedwith prostate cancer (PCa) has doubled, from 8% to 17% [1]. The sharp rise in the incidence of PCa has been accompanied by a reduction in PCa-specific mortality [2]. Although advances in treatment may explain the dramatic change in the epidemiology of PCa, the diagnosis of low-risk cancer in asymptomatic men may largely contribute to the reduction in disease mortality. It is clear that the greatest risk of screening is overdetection of indolent disease, and the greatest risk of overdetection is the consequences of unnecessary treatment. These disturbing trends in the management of localized PCa have refocused efforts in research to personalize management by improving risk stratification and enabling effective treatment allocation in which active surveillance, focal therapy, and radical surgery or radiotherapy lie on a continuum of complementary therapies. Therefore, advancements in technology driven to improve PCa detection, such as image-guided prostate biopsy on a magnetic resonance platform, are met with considerable resistance and are subsequently criticized for contributing to the overdetection of PCa. However, proponents may argue that targeted biopsies will reduce the detection of insignificant cancer andmitigate the complications associated with extended biopsy templates. Before discussing the implications of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–targeted biopsy for the contemporaneous management of PCa, it is important to return to the original report that defined the role of random sextant sampling of the prostate. In their landmark study, Hodge et al. still emphasized the importance of accompanying
A class of second-order Runge-Kutta methods for numerical solution of stochastic differential equations

A class of explicit Runge-Kutta methods for numerical solution of stochastic differential equations is described, analyzed, and numerically tested. It is shown that this class is of second-order accuracy in the weak sense. Also, a varaince reduction technique is presented that reduces the stochastic error involved when computing expectations. Numerical examples are presented to support the theoretical results.
The infrared spectra and structure of transition metal xanthates

Abstract The infrared spectra of methyl and ethylxanthato complexes of Pt(II), Pd(II), Ni(II), Cr(III) and Co(III) have been observed over the region 200–4000 cm −1 . Vibrational assignments have been made on an empirical basis and structural implications are discussed.
INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR (IGF) BINDING PROTEINS INHIBIT ICF-I-INDUCED DIFFERENTIATION IN L6E9 RAT SKELETAL MUSCLE CELLS

The insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) stimulate the differentiation of muscle cells. IGF binding proteins (BPs), which are expressed by skeletal muscle cells, may enhance or inhibit IGF actions. To explore the role of muscle IGF-BPs In IGF-induced myogenesis, we compared the effects of IGF-I and des(1-3)IGF-I (gift of Genentech, Inc.), an IGF-I analog with markedly reduced affinity for IGF-BPs but normal affinity for the IGF-I receptor, on creatine phosphokinase (CK) activity in rat L6E9 skeletal muscle cells. CK colorimetric assay. Conditioned media were analyzed by 125I-IGF-I ligand blot. Myoblasts grown in medium supplemented with 20% fetal bovine serum were transferred to medium supplemented with 2% heat inactivated horse serum and studied for up to 5 days in the absence or presence of 3 nM IGF-I or des-IGF-I. In comparison to untreated cells, cells treated with ICF-I demonstrated an 8-9 fold increase in CK activity. In contrast, cells treated with des-IGF-I demonstrated a 19-20 fold increase in CK activity versus untreated cells. In dose-response studies (0.7nM-7nH), des-IGF-I was 3-6 times more potent than IGF-I in inducing muscle CK activity. IGF-BP production was greatest at the time at which the largest difference in CK activity induced by des-IGF-I vs. IGF-I was observed. Since an IGF-I analog with reduced affinity for IGF-BPs is more potent than native IGF-I in stimulating CK activity, these data suggest that IGF-BPs expressed by skeletal muscle cells inhibit differentiation induced by IGF-I.
Modifying the CROPGRO-Soybean Model to Improve Predictions for the Upper Midwest

The CROPGRO-Soybean model has not been extensively evaluated in the upper Midwest. The objective of this project was to determine if modifications of the CROPGRO-Soybean model would improve predictions in the upper Midwest using three cultivars in five management systems and two planting dates from 1997 to 2000. Version 3.5 of the model was compared with 1998 data and found to underestimate total biomass and grain yield at harvest. Changes in temperature function on leaf expansion rate and base temperature for pod addition improved model performance and decreased root mean square error (RMSE) for biomass at harvest and grain yield from 734 to 707 kg ha -1 and from 410 to 362 kg ha -1 , respectively. The modified model was then tested with independent data from 1997, 1999, and 2000. Overall, the model parameters calibrated from 1998 data improved the fit slightly but with higher RMSE values for the three independent years than the 1998 data set. Averaged across the 3 yr, the modified model underpredicted biomass at harvest and grain yield by 14 and 6%, respectively, with RMSE for biomass at harvest and grain yield averaging 1181 and 814 kg ha -1 , respectively. The inaccuracy was related to underprediction of early vegetative growth because of the effect of site-specific and planting date-specific differences in temperature on biomass accumulation and leaf area index. It was concluded that the modified parameters improved the accuracy of the CROPGRO-Soybean model for the calibration year but did not significantly improve prediction for the three independent years.
Pinning down the axion

Abstract Davis has argued that, without inflation, the decay of axionic strings is the primary source of axions. This implies a cosmological lower bound on the axion mass of 10 −5 to 10 −3 eV. In order to obtain a sharper bound it is essential to know the spectrum of emitted axions and the detailed motion of a global string strongly coupled to the axionic field. To this end, we obtain self-consistent, renormalized equations that describe the dynamics of a radiating global string interacting with its surrounding axionic field. We describe the numerical formalism for evolving string trajectories using these equations. From the numerical and analytical evidence we argue that, with appropriate renormalization, the motion of an interacting cosmic string loop can be well approximated by the motion of a free Nambu-Goto string. This implies a lower bound for the axion mass of 10 −3 eV. Together with the recent upper bound of 4 × 10 −4 eV from the supernova SN1987a, this marginally rules out the invisible axion, or at least pins down the axion mass to a very narrow window around 10 −3 eV. This still leaves open the window around 2 eV for hadronic axions, but in that case the axion is no longer a serious dark matter candidate.
Identification of a novel sequence that governs both polyadenylation and alternative splicing in region E3 of adenovirus

Region E3 encodes four major overlapping mRNAs with different splicing patterns. There are two poly(A) sites, an upstream site called E3A and a downstream site called E3B. We have analyzed virus mutants with deletions or insertions in E3 in order to identify sequences that function in the alternative processing of E3 pre-mRNAs, and to understand what determines which poly(A) sites and which splice sites are used. In previous studies we established that the 5' boundary of the E3A poly(A) signal is at an ATTAAA sequence. We now show, using viable virus mutants, that the 3' boundary of the E3A signal is located within 47-62 nucleotides (nt) downstream of the ATTAAA (17-32 nt downstream of the last microheterogenous poly(A) addition site). Our data further suggest that the spacing between the ATTAAA, the cleavage sites, and the essential downstream sequences may be important in E3A 3' end formation. Of particular interest, these mutants suggest a novel mechanism for the control of alternative pre-mRNA processing. Mutants which are almost completely defective in E3A 3' end formation display greatly increased use of a 3' splice site located 4 nt upstream of the ATTAAA. The mRNA that uses this 3' splice site is polyadenylated at the E3B poly(A) site. We suggest, for this particular case, that alternative pre-mRNA processing could be determined by a competition between trans-acting factors that function in E3A 3' end formation or in splicing. These factors could compete for overlapping sequences in pre-mRNA.
Impact of Vietnam war expenditures on the Philadelphia economy: Some initial experiments with the inverse of the Philadelphia input-output table

We wish to reiterate that our research is far from finished. We report upon it at this time to make some of it available to interested scholars. Also, certain of its results may already be useful for policy formulation.
Prevention and Management of Viral Hepatitis in Pregnancy

Of the 5 types of viral hepatitis (HAV-HEV), HBV and HCV are by far the most common causes of chronic hepatitis in both pregnant and nonpregnant populations, causing more than 50% of cirrhosis cases and 78% of cases of primary liver cancer. Infection during pregnancy can have adverse effects on both the mother and her fetus. For all 5 viral hepatitis syndromes, early identification allows appropriate measures to be taken to optimize pregnancy outcomes and minimize the risk of perinatal transmission. This article reviews the prevention and management of all 5 viral hepatitis syndromes during pregnancy.
Associations among achievement measures and their collective prediction of work involvement

The present study found that the constructs of achievement striving, intrinsic motivation to accomplish, and need for achievement, while positively correlated with one another, were not statistically redundant. The study further found that these three achievement constructs, when taken together, significantly predict work involvement. Although this was found to be the case, need for achievement was found to be a superfluous predictor. Therefore, it is recommended that this predictor be removed from the prediction equation in the interest of parsimony. Intrinsic motivation to accomplish was found to be the most significant predictor of work involvement, with the combination of intrinsic motivation to accomplish and achievement striving collectively predicting the greatest proportion of variance in involvement. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Coiled-tube heat exchanger for high-pressure metal hydride hydrogen storage systems - Part 2. Computational model

Abstract This second part of a two-part study presents a transient, three-dimensional numerical model for a high-pressure metal hydride (HPMH) hydrogen storage system that is cooled by a coiled-tube heat exchanger. The model uses the same geometry examined in the first part of the study and its predictions are compared to experimental results also discussed in the first part. The model involves solving coupled heat diffusion and hydriding reaction equations for Ti1.1CrMn. These equations are solved to determine the spatial distribution of hydride temperature as a function of time over the entire duration of the hydriding reaction, which is shown to agree favorably with the experimental data. The model also serves as an effective means for tracking the detailed temporal variations of the heat exchanger’s key performance parameters for different hydride locations relative to the coolant tube. These variations can aid in determining optimum placement of the coolant tube relative the hydride powder. Like the experimental study, the model proves that coolant temperature has the greatest influence on the time needed to complete the hydriding reaction.
Development and validation of a functional morbidity index to predict mortality in community-dwelling elders.

OBJECTIVE: Functional measures have a great appeal for prognostic instruments because they are associated with mortality, they represent the end-impact of disease on the patient, and information about them can be obtained directly from the patient. However, there are no prognostic indices that have been developed for community-dwelling elders based primarily on functional measures. Our objective in this study was to develop and validate a prognostic index for 2-year mortality in community-dwelling elders, based on self-reported functional status, age, and gender.
Measuring Topological Anonymity in Social Networks

While privacy preservation of data mining approaches has been an important topic for a number of years, privacy of social network data is a relatively new area of interest. Previous research has shown that anonymization alone may not be sufficient for hiding identity information on certain real world data sets. In this paper, we focus on understanding the impact of network topology and node substructure on the level of anonymity present in the network. We present a new measure, topological anonymity, that quantifies the amount of privacy preserved in different topological structures. The measure uses a combination of known social network metrics and attempts to identify when node and edge inference breeches arise in these graphs.
An Explicit Strategy Prevails When the Cerebellum Fails to Compute Movement Errors

In sensorimotor adaptation, explicit cognitive strategies are thought to be unnecessary because the motor system implicitly corrects performance throughout training. This seemingly automatic process involves computing an error between the planned movement and actual feedback of the movement. When explicitly provided with an effective strategy to overcome an experimentally induced visual perturbation, people are immediately successful and regain good task performance. However, as training continues, their accuracy gets worse over time. This counterintuitive result has been attributed to the independence of implicit motor processes and explicit cognitive strategies. The cerebellum has been hypothesized to be critical for the computation of the motor error signals that are necessary for implicit adaptation. We explored this hypothesis by testing patients with cerebellar degeneration on a motor learning task that puts the explicit and implicit systems in conflict. Given this, we predicted that the patients would be better than controls in maintaining an effective strategy assuming strategic and adaptive processes are functionally and neurally independent. Consistent with this prediction, the patients were easily able to implement an explicit cognitive strategy and showed minimal interference from undesirable motor adaptation throughout training. These results further reveal the critical role of the cerebellum in an implicit adaptive process based on movement errors and suggest an asymmetrical interaction of implicit and explicit processes.
Factors affecting detection of burrowing owl nests during standardized surveys

Abstract Identifying causes of declines and evaluating effects of management practices on persistence of local populations of burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia) requires accurate estimates of abundance and population trends. Moreover, regulatory agencies in the United States and Canada typically require surveys to detect nest burrows prior to approving developments or other activities in areas that are potentially suitable for nesting burrowing owls. In general, guidelines on timing of surveys have been lacking and surveys have been conducted at different times of day and in different stages of the nesting cycle. We used logistic regression to evaluate 7 factors that could potentially affect probability of a surveyor detecting a burrowing owl nest. We conducted 1,444 detection trials at 323 burrowing owl nests within 3 study areas in Washington and Wyoming, USA, between February and August 2000–2002. Detection probability was highest during the nestling period and increased with ambient temperature. The ...
Effects of Assessment on Collegiate Recreation Programs

Collegiate recreation professionals were surveyed to determine whether, how regularly, and by what means they were conducting assessment. This descriptive study explored current assessment practice...
Suicide, Religion, and Latinos: A Macrolevel Study of U.S. Latino Suicide Rates

Since the publication of Durkheim's Suicide more than a century ago, researchers have been examining the relationship between religion and suicide, and race/ethnicity and suicide. However, no study has examined how religion influences U.S. Latino suicide rates. This study fills a gap in the literature by applying three competing theses to the study of Latino suicide. Results show that (1) religious contextual variables significantly affect Latino suicide rates, (2) U.S.-born Latinos benefit from religious communities, regardless of denomination or measurement used, and (3) foreign-born Latinos only benefit from Catholic adherents and homogeneity.
A new noncapacitive method of determining net surface charge densities using floating field ring devices

A new method has been developed for determining net surface charge densities in semiconductor surfaces that are passivated with materials such as glasses or silicone rubber for which it is difficult or impossible to make standard C-V measurements. The method is based on measurements of the potential of floating field rings around reverse-biased planar diodes and theoretical calculations of this potential that include the effects of the surface-charge density. A feature of the technique is that the surface charge is determined under conditions of deep depletion and after all processing is completed. This is important if the surface-charge density is to be used to help predict field ring behavior or avalanche breakdown voltage. The experimental technique used is first to measure the floating field ring potential as a function of the applied reverse bias between the anode and cathode. The value of surface-charge density is obtained by comparing the measured field ring dependence with theory. Although the specific dependence of the field ring voltage on the surface charge is unique to the device under test, shifts in voltage by 70 V for a surface charge density of 1011cm-2are typical of 1000-V devices.
Comparison of ultrasonic energy, bipolar thermal energy, and vascular clips for the hemostasis of small-, medium-, and large-sized arteries

Background: Advanced laparoscopic procedures have necessitated the development of new technology for vascular control. Suture ligation can be time-consuming and cumbersome during laparoscopic dissection. Titanium clips have been used for hemostasis, and recently plastic clips and energy sources such as ultrasonic coagulating shears and bipolar thermal energy devices have become popular. The purpose of this study was to compare the bursting pressure of arteries sealed with ultrasonic coagulating shears (UCS), electrothermal bipolar vessel sealer (EBVS), titanium laparoscopic clips (LCs), and plastic laparoscopic clips (PCs). In addition, the spread of thermal injury from the UCS and the EBVS was compared. Methods: Arteries in three size groups (2–3, 4–5 and 6–7 mm) were harvested from freshly euthanized pigs. Each of the four devices was used to seal 16 specimens from each size group for burst testing. A 5-Fr catheter was placed into the open end of the specimen and secured with a purse-string suture. The catheter was connected to a pressure monitor and saline was infused until there was leakage from the sealed end. This defined the bursting pressure in mmHg. The ultrasonic shears and bipolar thermal device were used to seal an additional 8 vessels in each size group, which were sent for histologic examination. These were examined with hematoxylin and eosin stains, and the extent of thermal injury, defined by coagulation necrosis, was measured in millimeters. Analysis of variance was performed and, where appropriate, a Tukey’s test was also performed. Results: The EBVS’s mean burst pressure was statistically higher than that of the UCS at 4 or 5 mm (601 vs 205 mmHg) and 6 or 7 mm (442 vs 175 mmHg). EBVS had higher burst pressures for the 4 or 5-mm group (601 mmHg) and 6 or 7-mm group (442 mmHg) compared with its pressure at 2 or 3 mm (128 mmHg) (p = 0.0001). The burst pressures of the UCS and EBVS at 2 or 3 mm were not significantly different. Both clips were statistically stronger than the thermal devices except at 4 or 5 mm, in which case the EBVS was as strong as the LC (601 vs 593 mmHg). The PC and LC were similar except at 4 or 5 mm, where the PC was superior (854 vs 593 mmHg). The PC burst pressure for 4 or 5 mm (854 mmHg) was statistically higher than that for vessels 2 or 3 mm (737 mmHg) but not different from the 6 or 7 mm pressure (767 mmHg). Thermal spread was not statistically different when comparing EBVS and UCS at any size (EBVS mean = 2.57 mm vs UCS mean = 2.18 mm). Conclusions: Both the PC and LC secured all vessel sizes to well above physiologic levels. The EBVS can be used confidently in vessels up to 7 mm. There is no difference in the thermal spread of the LigaSure vessel sealer and the UCS.
Simultaneous control of hand displacements and rotations in orientation-matching experiments

In reach-to-grasp movements, the interaction between the hand changes in position and those in orientation is poorly understood. A theoretical approach previously proposed (Torres EB and Zipser D. J Neurophysiol 88: 1-13, 2002) assumes that motion strategies are resolved in space independently from the temporal dynamics of the motion and predicts the coarticulation of the hand transport and rotation along the path. The model implies that this simultaneous control is independent of variations in speed and initial posture and required matching orientation. This paper presents experimental data from human subjects that confirm the model's predictions in the context of realistic, unconstrained, orientation-matching motions. Speed independence is quantified in the similarity of the postural and endpoint position-orientation paths obtained under three different speeds. Significant differences in hand and joint kinematics are shown in response to changes in initial posture and target orientation. The robustness of coarticulation under all three experimental conditions supports the idea of an intermediate stage that resolves the geometry of the motion independent of its temporal dynamics.
Reliable Multicasting in Disruption Tolerant Networks

Disruption Tolerant Networks (DTNs) are characterized by frequent network partitioning. This causes network connectivity to be opportunistic. In recent years, many collaborative applications have been envisioned for DTNs. These applications rely on the availability of reliable group communication protocols. To address this challenge in DTNs, we propose a scalable multicasting scheme that deterministically guarantees message delivery to all receivers in the group. Also, our scheme makes controlled use of non-multicast nodes to reduce latency of message delivery. Our work introduces a new measure called termination delay, which is the delay incurred in assuring that the receivers have obtained a copy of the message. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme has much smaller delivery latency and termination delay than other schemes in literature.
Steep your genes in health: drink tea

Tea, one of the most commonly consumed beverages in the world, has many health benefits. Tea polyphenols support health by promoting antioxidant enzymes, promoting apoptosis, preventing angiogenesis, and modulating epigenetic change. Considerable basic science and epidemiologic evidence supports the regular consumption of this tasty, inexpensive beverage.
Service-Learning in a Nonprofit Marketing Course: A Comparative Case of Pedagogical Tools

Service-learning has been explored from a number of perspectives, however, this research examines the use of service-learning as a pedagogical tool in a nonprofit marketing course and compares it with other pedagogical tools such as case studies, analysis and discussion, lectures, textbooks, guest speakers, and current readings. Overall it was found that the service-learning project was perceived by students as being the best pedagogical tool in terms of increasing the students' knowledge of nonprofit marketing, understanding the difference between nonprofit and for-profit marketing, developing marketing strategies for nonprofit organizations, and using marketing tools. A variety of service-learning experiences that fostered civic engagement are offered as examples along with the service-learning format and the instructor's role in facilitating active engagement within the community.
A finite element model of the breast for predicting mechanical deformations during biopsy procedures

Currently, High Field (1.5 T) Superconducting MR image-guided needle breast procedures allow the physician only to calculate approximately the location and extent of a cancerous tumor in the compressed patient breast before inserting the needle. It can then become relatively uncertain that the tissue specimen removed during the biopsy actually belongs to the lesion of interest. A new method for guiding clinical breast biopsy is presented, based on a deformable finite element model of the breast. The geometry of the model is constructed from MR data, and its mechanical properties are modeled using a non-linear material model. This method allows imaging the breast without compression before the procedure, then compressing the breast and using the finite element model to predict the tumor's position during the procedure.