cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Perception of Social Conventionality by Children and Adults

Numerous studies have found that by late childhood individuals recognize conventional norms as social contrivances that are arbitrary, relative, and changeable. However, this conclusion conflicts with other evidence that children and adults “reify” social formations by apprehending them as something other than social products. For example, it is difficult to reconcile the phenomenon of ethnocentrism with the image of people who perceive their social worlds as arbitrary and relative. Most of the studies have questioned respondents about comparatively “transparent” rules, that is, those whose arbitrary human origins are evident. Moreover, the customary questions used to measure perceived conventionality are often simplistic indicators of a complex phenomenon. The result is an exaggerated portrayal of children's and adults' awareness of the conventionality of the social world.
Superior vena cava thrombectomy with the X-SIZER catheter system in a child with Fontan palliation.

A 4-year-old female with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and Fontan palliation presented with severe neurologic impairment from thrombosis of the superior vena cava (SVC). She underwent successful SVC thrombectomy with the X-SIZER® Thrombectomy Catheter System, followed by balloon angioplasty. She demonstrated rapid improvement in her neurologic deficits after the procedure. This represents the first published use of the X-SIZER in a child and its first published use for SVC thrombectomy. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
8 Obstetric management of high-order multiple pregnancies

High-order multiples are increasingly common as a result of assisted reproductive technologies and represent pregnancies at exceptional risk. This article discusses the antepartum management of high-order multiples, which has in general been highly individualized and poorly studied. Care for high-order multiples should include preterm birth prevention education, the frequent assessment of maternal symptoms and cervical status by a consistent provider, individualized modification of activity, attention to maternal nutrition, ultrasonography for the assessment of fetal anatomy and intra-uterine growth and anticipation of maternal complications. Interventions such as prophylactic cerclage, uterine activity monitoring, prophylactic tocolysis or hospitalization have not improved outcome when used routinely, and guidelines for selective use will be presented. Specialized care for high-order multiples should be directed at identifying congenital anomalies, maximizing fetal growth and preventing early preterm birth, the effect of which will be to improve perinatal outcome for these exceptional pregnancies.
Measurement of serum albumin on the technicon SMA 12/60 autoanalyzer by the bromcresol green method

1. A way is presented to adapt the Technicon SMA 12/60 AutoAnalyzer for the determination of serum albumin by the bromcresol green dye-binding method. The procedure uses readily available parts. 2. The procedure employs reagents which are not only stable at room temperature but which can also be used in manual and automated single channel methods for albumin determination. 3. The results obtained on the SMA 12/60 are linear from 0 to 8 g/dl albumin, have a minimum of carry-over between samples, and are reproducible. 4. The BCG method on the SMA 12/60 produces results which compare well with electrophoretic results on cellulose acetate and with BCG results on the single channel AutoAnalyzer.
The thin plate spline robust point matching (TPS-RPM) algorithm: A revisit

This paper reviews the TPS-RPM algorithm (Chui and Rangarajan, 2003) for robustly registering two sets of points and demonstrates from a theoretical point of view its inherent limited performance when outliers are present in both point sets simultaneously. A double-sided outlier handling approach is proposed to overcome this limitation with a rigorous mathematical proof as the underlying theoretical support. This double-sided outlier handling approach is proved to be equivalent to the original formulation of the point matching problem. For a practical application, we also extend the TPS-RPM algorithms to non-rigid image registration by registering two sets of sparse features extracted from images. The intensity information of the extracted features are incorporated into feature matching in order to reduce the impact from outliers. Our experiments demonstrate the double-sided outlier handling approach and the efficiency of intensity information in assisting outlier detection.
Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 mediates cell attachment through interactions with two FGF receptor-1 isoforms and extracellular matrix or cell-associated heparan sulfate proteoglycans.

In the presence of FGF-2, cells in suspension expressing FGF receptor-1 will attach to monolayers of cells expressing heparan sulfates. This attachment provides physical evidence for the formation of a trimolecular complex between FGF-2, heparan sulfate, and FGF receptors. We have used this system to determine if receptor isoforms containing or lacking the first of three immunoglobulin-like domains are equally able to form complexes with FGF-2 and heparan sulfates. In the presence of FGF-2, cells expressing either isoform of the receptor were able to attach to monolayers of CHO cells expressing heparan sulfates. No attachment was observed in the absence of FGF-2 or if heparin was included in the incubation medium. Attachment of cells expressing the two receptor isoforms occurred at similar concentrations of FGF-2, and similar concentrations of heparin were required to disrupt the interactions. Thus, there appeared to be little difference between these receptor isoforms in their ability to form trimolecular complexes with FGF-2 and cell-associated heparan sulfates. We also found that, in the presence of FGF-2, cells expressing FGF receptor-1 are able to form complexes with both extracellular matrix and cell-surface heparan sulfates.
What determines visual cue reliability

Visual environments contain many cues to properties of an observed scene. To integrate information provided by multiple cues in an efficient manner, observers must assess the degree to which each cue provides reliable versus unreliable information. Two hypotheses are reviewed regarding how observers estimate cue reliabilities, namely that the estimated reliability of a cue is related to the ambiguity of the cue, and that people use correlations among cues to estimate cue reliabilities. Cue reliabilities are shown to be important both for cue combination and for aspects of visual learning.
Funding for Pupil Transportation: Framework for Analysis

School districts spend approximately $17 billion annually on pupil transportation. More than half of all students in the United States are eligible for transportation at public expense. Despite this major financial investment and the large number of daily student trips, relatively little scholarly material is written on funding for pupil transportation. This article provides research background on pupil transportation funding, establishes a comprehensive framework of analysis for evaluating methods of state funding, and presents case studies of six states to highlight institutional differences. The key questions about state pupil transportation policy are (a) whether pupil transportation is mandated by the state, (b) what the eligibility requirements are for state aid, and (c) what formula is used for reimbursement. Funding for pupil transportation varies greatly among states, with differences that include student eligibility for transportation, funding formulas, and state aid as a percentage of transport...
Gamma prime shape changes during creep of a nickel-base superalloy

Changes in the shape of the gamma-prime phase in the single-crystal nickel base alloy NASAIR 100 during tensile and compressive creep have been investigated experimentally by Laue X-ray diffractometry. It is found that under tensile loading, gamma-prime changes from the initial cubic shape to plates perpendicular to the applied stress. This change occurs during primary creep at 1000 C, 148 MPa. Prolonged creep exposures result in a thickening of the gamma-prime plates that is similar to Ostwald ripening often observed in other superalloys during creep. Under compressive loading, two sets of gamma-prime plates parallel to the applied stress are formed.
Prognostic Significance of Type 1 Neurofibromatosis (von Recklinghausen Disease) in Childhood Optic Glioma

Although the association between optic glioma and neurofibromatosis is well recognized, few studies have systematically compared the outcomes of patients with optic gliomas and neurofibromatosis and patients with optic gliomas without neurofibromatosis. In the present study, patients with optic gliomas and Type 1 neurofibromatosis (NF-1) were compared with patients with optic gliomas without NF-1, with respect to survival, time to tumor progression, and tumor location. Forty-four patients with optic gliomas who were evaluated between 1949 and 1991 were studied retrospectively. Sixteen of 44 patients (36%) met the National Institutes of Health criteria for NF-1. The medical records of all patients were examined, and letters of inquiry were sent to every living patient to ascertain current health statuses. Death certificates were obtained to determine causes of death. Follow-up averaged 7.2 years (10.2 yr for patients with NF-1, 5.4 yr for patients without NF-1). The 5- and 10-year survival rates for patients with optic gliomas and NF-1 were 93 and 81%, respectively. For those patients with optic gliomas who did not have NF-1, 5- and 10-year survival rates were 83 and 76%, respectively. Seventeen patients experienced tumor progression (5 with NF-1, 12 without NF-1). A difference was observed in the mean time to tumor progression (first relapse) between the two groups (mean time with NF-1, 8.37 yr; without NF-1, 2.39 yr [P < 0.01]). However, no significant difference in overall survival, as evaluated by a log-rank test of the respective Kaplan-Meier survival curves, was observed between the two groups. A significant difference in distribution of tumor location between the group with NF-1 and the group without NF-1 was also noted (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.0338), although the number of patients evaluated in this series was too small to determine whether this difference in tumor location influenced relapse rate. We conclude that optic gliomas in patients with neurofibromatosis have a different distribution of location as opposed to those in patients without neurofibromatosis, and, for first relapse, the presence of neurofibromatosis is a significant favorable factor.
Unwed adolescent primigravidas identify subject matter for prenatal classes.

The purpose of this descriptive study was to identify areas that the unwed 15‐ to 19‐year‐old primigravida felt should be included in prenatal classes. The sample consisted of 15 subjects, three from each year of age, 15 through 19. Data were collected by a structured interview. The findings revealed that these adolescents tended to select topics for prenatal classes that were self‐oriented, the most important topic identified being the labor and delivery process. However, the other traditional prenatal class topics were not the major concerns of these adolescents. They preferred a group‐discussion‐oriented class. These findings could be useful for nurses teaching adolescent prenatal classes.
Measurement of the magnetoresistance in the transition metal oxide RuO2

Abstract The transverse magnetoresistance of the transition metal oxide RuO 2 has been measured. RuO 2 is a compensated metal with open orbits.
Forced Flow of Vapor Condensing Over a Horizontal Plate (Problem of Cess and Koh): Steady and Unsteady Solutions of the Full 2D Problem

Accurate steady and unsteady numerical solutions of the full 2D governing equations— which model the forced film condensation flow of saturated vapor over a semi-infinite horizontal plate (the problem of Cess and Koh)—are obtained over a range of flow parameters. The results presented here are used to better understand the limitations of the well-known similarity solutions given by Koh. It is found that steady/quasisteady filmwise solution exists only if the inlet speed is above a certain threshold value. Above this threshold speed, steady/quasisteady film condensation solutions exist and their film thickness variations are approximately the same as the similarity solution given by Koh. However, these steady solutions differ from the Koh solution regarding pressure variations and associated effects in the leading part of the plate. Besides results based on the solutions of the full steady governing equations, this paper also presents unsteady solutions that characterize the steady solutions' attainability, stability (response to initial disturbances), and their response to ever-present minuscule noise on the condensing-surface. For this shear-driven flow, the paper finds that if the uniform vapor speed is above a threshold value, an unsteady solution that begins with any reasonable initial-guess is attracted in time to a steady solution. This long time limiting solution is the same—within computational errors—as the solution of the steady problem. The reported unsteady solutions that yield the steady solution in the long time limit also yield "attraction rates" for nonlinear stability analysis of the steady solutions. The attraction rates are found to diminish gradually with increasing distance from the leading edge and with decreasing inlet vapor speed. These steady solutions are generally found to be stable to initial disturbances on the interface as well as in any flow variable in the interior of the flow domain. The results for low vapor speeds below the threshold value indicate that the unsteady solutions exhibit nonexistence of any steady limit of filmwise flow in the aft portion of the solution. Even when a steady solution exists, the flow attainability is also shown to be difficult (because of waviness and other sensitivities) at large downstream distances.
Theological Correctness: Cognitive Constraint and the Study of Religion

In both natural and religious thinking, people have ntultiple versions of the same concepts that may be contradictory. In the domain of religious concepts, these ntultiple levels of representation in single individuals may be termed "Theological Correctness." Versions of religioiis concepts range front fairly simple or concrete to very complex and abstract. Selection of the, concept to be used in any given context is largely dependent on the cognitive processing demands of the task. In tasks in which there is great derrtand to draw quick and rich inferences, a basic concept comprised largely of intuitive knowledge, is used. In tasks in which there is less demand, as when one is slowly and carefully riflecting on one's knowledge, more complicated, intuition violating theoretical concepts may be drawn upon. In the domain of religious concepts these concepts closely match traditional theology and so may be termed theological concepts. Implications for data gathering and theorizing in the study of religion are discussed. Finally, these observations suggest the. importance of insights from cognitive sciertce, for the study of religion.
Dissipative Solitons in a Generalized Coupled Cubic–Quintic Ginzburg–Landau Equations

Three families of exact analytical solutions of a generalized nonlinear coupled cubic–quintic complex Ginzburg–Landau equations are obtained. These families of solitary waves which describe the evolution of progressive bright–bright, front–front, dark–dark, and other families of solitary waves are investigated. Using total energy of pulse modes, a loss–gain analysis due to nonlinearity in comparison to a linear gain is done. The stability of the solitary waves is examined using linear stability analysis and also a complete numerical stability of these families of solutions is provided. The results reveal that most of the solitary waves obtained here can propagate in a stable way under slight perturbation of white noise and the disturbance of parameters of the system.
Analytical Model Development and Model Reduction for Electromechanical Brake System

This paper presents a detailed analytical model development which can describe the dynamic behavior of the electromechanical brake-by-wire (BBW) system over the entire operating range. The complete model has 10 degree-of-freedom (DOF) and includes essential nonlinearities such as gear backlashes, Coulomb frictions, and disk gap clearance. Such a full model is reduced to 6 degree-of-freedom model in SIMULINK for simulation study of the effectiveness and the achievable performance of different hardware and controller designs, an invaluable tool in the early design stage of a product. Simulation results show that the model is able to reproduce various nonlinear characteristics including typical structural hysteresis as shown in real brake assembly. The linearized version of the full nonlinear model is then obtained for its modal properties to understand the modes that are critical to the low frequency dynamics of the overall system. The results of the modal analyses are subsequently utilized to obtain two simplified models, one for non-contact mode and the other for the contact mode of operation. The concepts of two simplified models well capture the dynamic characteristics of the system over the frequencies of interest and are being used in the controller (e.g., clamping force control) and estimator (e.g., gap clearance estimation) designs that are under investigation.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Effect of Non-Uniform Blade Root Friction and Sticking on Disk Stresses

Stress levels predicted by conventional disk modeling assumptions are lower than expected to cause conventional creep or fatigue damage consistent with slot failures experienced in some compressor and turbine disks. It was suspected that disparate slot to slot friction at the blade root surface will result in sticking of some blade roots as the turbine is shut down while adjacent blades slip; the un-resisted stuck root would pry the steeples apart causing additional bending stress. Testing of a blade root/disk slot pair in a load frame found that the blade root will stick in place as imposed radial loads decrease. Simulation of blade root movement during shutdown indicates peak stress can increase by 20% or more depending on geometric factors. The slot stress only rises above its maximum speed condition on shutdown (at 80% Max Speed in the example case). This brief stress rise will not cause significant creep damage, but can shorten disk life based on low cycle fatigue or hold time fatigue damage.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Hemodialysis in hypotensive heart failure using midodrine.

Abstract Background Dialysis in patients with severe congestive heart failure and low blood pressure is difficult even in a hospital setting. We retrospectively recorded the effects and usefulness of an alpha (1) agonist in an outpatient dialysis unit in 5 patients with end-stage renal disease with symptomatic heart failure and low blood pressure. To provide outpatient dialysis, they were given midodrine before and during their dialysis sessions. Methods The volume of fluid removed, the lowest blood pressure, and postdialysis blood pressure measurements were recorded during a 3- to 4-week period just before initiating therapy (control period) and were compared with the measurements while using midodrine (treatment period). The blood pressures were expressed as the average of the mean arterial pressures (MAP). Results All patients had an increase in the lowest MAP during dialysis and in the postdialysis MAP. Each was significant at P = 0.03. Fluid removal was significant at P = 0.04. All the patients improved in their symptoms of orthopnea and shortness of breath. Conclusion Outpatient dialysis is possible and relieves the symptoms of congestive heart failure in patients with poor heart function, low blood pressure, and advanced age when midodrine is given immediately before and during the procedure.
Synthetic competence and consent. Ought a defendant be drugged to stand trial

This question was recently at issue before the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals in the case of State of Tennessee v. William Earl Stacy [556 SW 2nd 552]. At the time of the appellate trial, several indictments were pending against the defendant Stacy in the lower criminal court, including a first-degree murder charge. Stacy was accused of fatally shooting a ticket agent at a bus station during what police theorized was an attempted robbery. In addition, Stacy was also accused of robbing a store shortly afterwards. Through his court-appointed counsel, the defendant filed a motion asking the court to find him mentally incompetent to stand trial.
Hypersensitivity lung disease: early diagnosis

The early diagnosis of hypersensitivity lung disease (HLD) is important because of its progressive morbidity. It is often difficult to establish the diagnosis in the early stages because of the absence of defined symptoms. Case histories of 2 patients with pigeon breeder's HLD are reported. Both patients presented with unusual manifestations of the disease: one patient was asymptomatic but had an abnormal chest radiograph; the other patient had a normal chest radiograph but experienced occasional symptoms of exertional dyspnea. Both patients had abnormal pulmonary function and precipitin bands against pigeon serum. Following inhalation challenge with pigeon serum both patients developed fever and leukocytosis, but no significant pulmonary function response was observed. In both patients pulmonary function tests returned to near normal levels after corticosteroid therapy. Early detection of HLD may prevent progressive irreversible pulmonary damage. This requires a high index of clinical suspicion and appropriate screening tests. Inhalation challenge procedures are useful in establishing the diagnosis.
Selective Sorption of Nanoporous Poly(methyl silsesquioxane)

The sorption behavior of nanoporous poly(methyl silsesquoxane), PMSSQ, thin films was investigated using a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) combined with reflectance infrared spectroscopy (IR). The nanoporous PMSSQ films are intrinsically hydrophobic and show highly selective sorption behavior. With organic liquids having surface tensions below the critical value (38−48 dyn/cm), the extent of sorption increased with porosity of PMSSQ films. Extremely low amounts of sorption were measured with liquids having a surface tension higher than the critical value. The selective sorption behavior can be interpreted by capillary condensation resulting from the lowered vapor pressure in the nanoscopic pores.
Symptomatology and adaptive functioning for children exposed to normative stressors, dog attack, and parental violence

ABSTRACT Objective To examine and identify predictors of posttraumatic symptomatology and adaptive functioning of children exposed to single and repetitive adverse events that varied in severity. Method A sample of 86 parents and their children, aged 4 to 9 years, were interviewed after three types of adverse experiences: repetitive exposure to parental violence, a dog attack, or a milder stressor. The PTSD Reaction Index, Child Dissociative Checklist, and Child Behavior Checklist were used. Results Trauma symptoms were greater for the first two groups, younger children, and girls. Gender effects were most evident in the dog attack group and depended on type of symptoms and informant. Supportiveness in the parenting relationship aided prediction of both trauma symptoms and adjustment. Conclusions Children appear to experience elevated posttraumatic stress disorder symptomatology after both single and repetitive adverse events that are potentially life-threatening. A positive parental relationship is associated with fewer symptoms and better adaptive functioning. The mechanisms through which this support interacts with behavioral and physiological systems to facilitate better regulation await further research. J. Am. Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry , 1997, 36(8):1089–1097.
Growth and development: Growth hormone therapy--is it worth the risk?

Safety is an important issue for all drugs, but even more so for treatments of non-life-threatening conditions, such as growth hormone (GH) therapy to increase adult stature. Given the almost ubiquitous expression of receptors for GH and its effector, insulin-like growth factor I, GH treatment has the potential to influence several parameters of organism biology.
Immunological investigations on bovine pituitary growth hormone.

The antigenicity of highly purified bovine pituitary growth hormone was studied by means of anaphylactic shock experiments in guinea pigs, precipitin ring tests with rabbit antisera, and bioassay of the antiserum in hypophysectomized rats for antihormone activity. Bovine growth hormone in the adjuvant, Bayol-Ai-lacel, was found to be antigenic in guinea pigs and rabbits. Furthermore, as little as 1 µg. of growth hormone could be detected by the precipitin test, using rabbit antiserum which was absorbed free of certain non-specific antibodies. This antiserum did not react with any of the other anterior lobe hormones tested at comparable and considerably higher doses. The absorbed antiserum was found to be capable of inhibiting the stimulation of tibial epiphyseal cartilage and body weight gain effected in hypophysectomized rats by growth hormone.
Solar Forcing of Global Temperature Change Since AD 1400

It is well known that the magnetic field imbedded in the solar wind modulates the production of cosmogenic isotopes by galactic cosmic rays. Power spectral analysis yields evidence for fundamental periods relevant to this study including the Suess, Gleissberg, Hale and Schwabe cycles of ca. 210, 88, 22 and 11 years lengths. There is increasing evidence for an irradiance component accompanying each of these cycles. Assuming this is valid, we model the magnitude of irradiance change associated with these cycles that is compatible with the paleoclimate record. We conclude that the resultant model fit requires less than ±0.8‰ change in solar irradiance for each of these cycles even if we assume low climate sensitivity (0.5 °C(Wm−2)). Our solar irradiance model accounts for about 18% of 20th century global warming to 1997 and also predicts that the next maximum would occur in ad 2040 and contribute 0.2 °C to 21st century Northern Hemisphere warming.
Lack of a pharmacokinetic drug-drug interaction with venlafaxine extended-release/indinavir and desvenlafaxine extended-release/indinavir

To assess the effects of venlafaxine extended-release (XR) capsules and desvenlafaxine extended-release (XR) tablets upon indinavir pharmacokinetic properties when co-administrated to healthy volunteers. This was an open-label, two-period, fixed-dose study conducted at the clinical research unit located on a university campus. Twenty-four healthy volunteers enrolled in the study (mean age 28.3 ± 8.0 years). Each subject received a single dose of indinavir 800 mg on day 1. Subsequently, subjects were then randomly assigned to either the venlafaxine XR group (N = 12) or the desvenlafaxine XR group (N = 12). Starting on day 2, venlafaxine XR was dosed at 37.5 mg/day for 4 days and increased to 75 mg/day for 6 days. Desvenlafaxine XR was dosed at 50 mg/day for 10 days. On day 12, indivanvir 800 mg was co-administered to both the venlafaxine XR and the desvenlafaxine XR groups. The pharmacokinetics of indinavir were determined both before and at the end of antidepressant dosing. Plasma indinavir, venlafaxine, and desvenlafaxine concentrations were assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultra-violet (UV) detection. Indinavir pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by noncompartmental analysis using validated computer software. Venlafaxine XR and desvenlafaxine XR did not produce any significant changes in indinavir disposition. Both antidepressants were well tolerated by the subjects with only minor adverse side effects. No pharmacokinetic drug-drug interaction was demonstrated between venlafaxine XR and indinavir or between desvenlafaxine XR and indinvair. The lack of interaction could be due to the venlafaxine and desvenlafaxine extended-release formulation.
Optimising Diuretic Therapy in Elderly Patients with Hypertension

Hypertension is the most important risk factor for cardiovascular events in the elderly and it is present in more than 50% of acculturated populations over 60 years of age. Morbidity trials have clearly demonstrated the benefits of treating hypertension in the elderly in all subgroups examined, including diabetics, those over 80 years of age, those with or without electrocardiographic abnormalities, and in both men and women. These reductions in strokes, coronary events, and other hypertensive complications have been seen primarily with diuretic-based regimens, with or without potassium-sparing therapy. However, in the 1990s physicians are initiating diuretics less often for older patients with hypertension in spite of this scientific evidence. Low doses of diuretics have been well tolerated, successful in recent morbidity trials, and avoid much of the concerns about theoretical toxicities from diuretics, although higher doses have also been shown to reduce cardiovascular events. Until calcium channel blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, alpha-blockers, or some other class of antihypertensive agent has been demonstrated to be at least as effective as diuretics in reducing cardiovascular events or mortality, diuretics should be the first drug class to consider for the treatment of hypertension in the elderly.
Study of condensational growth of water droplets by Mie resonance spectroscopy

An optical technique using MIE resonance scattering spectroscopy to monitor the growth of a saline solution droplet is presented. This technique utilizes a quadrupole particle trap to suspend a charged NaCl solution droplet in a water vapor environment and a CO2 laser to momentarily perturb the droplet-vapor equilibrium. The condensational growth of this droplet is monitored by means of multiple Mie resonances observed at right angle scattering. A least-squares fit, used to evaluate the condensation coefficient of water, shows that the value tends to approach unity. In addition, this new approach reduces the error in dry salt size measurement to <1%.
Abstract B91: Tasquinimod targets immuno-suppressive myeloid cell populations and enhances immunotherapy in murine prostate cancer models.

Purpose: A major component of the immunosuppressive environment responsible for immune tolerance in cancer is represented by myeloid cell populations such as myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor associated macrophages (TAMs). These cells facilitate carcinogenesis and tumor progression by impairing T and NK cells activation and contributing to modulate angiogenesis. Tasquinimod is an anti-angiogenic and immunomodulatory agent that has shown clinical benefit in patients with prostate cancer. This agent has been found to bind to the inflammatory protein S100A9, to block the interaction of S100A9 with myeloid cells surface receptors, and therefore has the potential to affect accumulation and function of these cells. Experiments and Objectives: We tested tasquinimod in combination with a vaccine therapy in two castration resistant, syngenic transplantable murine prostate cancer models: CR Myc-Cap and TRAMP-C2. This study had the following objectives: 1) to explore tasquinimod's novel immunomodulatory activities and underlining mechanism; 2)To investigate whether tasquinimod inhibits the induction and function of immunosuppressive myeloid cell populations; 3) To assess whether tasquinimod can facilitate vaccine therapy in the castrate resistant prostate cancer models. Results: We observed that the peripheral MDSCs (in blood and spleen) dramatically increased in tumor bearing mice as compared to naive mice. The MDSCs number increase correlated with disease progression in the transgenic model. Tasquinimod treatment depleted Gr1-CD11b+, Ly6G-CD11b+ (monocytic MDSCs) myeloid cells and M2 macrophages in peripheral sites, and reduced Gr1+CD11b+ MDSCs infiltrates in the tumors. In addition, tasquinimod (10mg/kg) dramatically improved tumor-specific immune responses, including the granzyme B expression in CD8 cells and cytotoxicity of splenocytes, and enhanced anti-tumor activity of a survivin-mimetic peptide vaccine. Conclusions: 1. MDSCs accumulate in prostate cancer models suggesting that MDSCs may contribute to immune tolerance in prostate cancer. 2. Tasquinimod reduces immunosuppressive MDSCs and M2 macrophage and may facilitate vaccine therapy by enhancing cell-mediated cytotoxic tumor cell killing and the anti-tumor immune response. Citation Format: Li Shen, Kiersten Marie Miles, Michael Ciesielski, Leigh Ellis, Robert Fenstermaker, Roberto Pili. Tasquinimod targets immuno-suppressive myeloid cell populations and enhances immunotherapy in murine prostate cancer models. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Immunology: Multidisciplinary Science Driving Basic and Clinical Advances; Dec 2-5, 2012; Miami, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B91.
Effect of fertilization on biomass and nutrient content of fine roots in a beech-birch-maple stand

Quantitative samples of fine roots (d≤3 mm) were extracted from the soil of a 90-year-old beech-birch-maple stand that had been previously treated with lime (1120 kg/ha) or lime plus 15-10-10 NPK fertilizer (6720 kg/ha). Estimates of fine root biomass were: 1246±94 g/m2, control; 1229±194 g/m2, lime only; and 2711±423 g/m2, lime+NPK. Increased root concentration in the fertilized plot was greatest in upper soil horizons, but extended through the profile to all but the C horizon. Concentrations of N, P, Ca, and Mg in the roots were increased significantly by fertilizer treatment; K concentration was unaffected. Elements not added in the fertilizer or lime-Al, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu-also increased in concentration in roots from the fertilized plot. Increased root biomass, nutrient content, and rooting depth resulting from fertilization should lead to: (1) a higher organic matter and nutrient content of the deeper soil horizons, (2) availability of a larger volume of soil —with its moisture and nutrients—to the vegetation, and (3) increased wind-firmness in addition to the more direct effects of fertilization upon growth, vigor, and soil properties. re]19730806
Molecular Signatures of MHD Waves

The small ion-neutral drift speeds attained in MHD waves lead to a significant increase in the rates of several important ion-molecule reactions. The effect on the deuterium chemistry of dark clouds could allow MHD wave motion to be observed directly. The results of some recent observations to test this theory are outlined.
Sexual Behavior and Intersexual Strategies in American Bison

Breeding in American bison (Bison bison) is promiscuous. Copulation takes place in a brief one to one relationship. Cows stimulate bulls to compete for the opportunity to tend them, then cooperate with the successful bull to copulate. Breeding is strongly seasonal; about 90 % of all copulations take place in a two week period. Bulls spend a lot of time tending cows that are not in estrus. The higher a bull's status the more cows he breeds. 20 % of breeding cows copulate more than once. This is more likely to happen in the latter part of the breeding season and following copulation with bulls that have already copulated several times. Zusammenfassung Das promiske Paarungsverhalten des Amerikanischen Bisons (Bison bison) folgt einer Rangordnung in der Sozietat. Die Kopulation dauert meist weniger als 10 s. 46 % der Kopulationen in einer Herde fanden 1972 in den letzten zwei Juli- und den ersten zwei Augusttagen statt. Eine bevorzugte Tageszeit war nicht erkennbar. Zwischen Bullen und Kuhen kann es zu Kooperation oder audi zu Konflikten kommen. Die Kuhe stimulieren das Werben der Bullen, das diese viel Zeit und Energie kostet und sie von anderen Paarungen abhalt. Fur die Kuhe ist das von Vorteil, denn vom Rang des Paarungsbullen profitieren audi ihre mannlichen Nachkommen. Gewohnlich kooperieren die Kuhe mit den Bullen, indem sie nur einmal kopulieren und die Moglichkeit von Spermienkonkurrenz ausschliesen, besonders zu Beginn der Paarungssaison. Eine spatere Verhaltensanderung konnte eine Anpassung an die zunehmende Erschopfung des Spermienhaushaltes der Bullen sein. Gewohnlich bewachen die Bullen ihre Kuhe fur kurze Zeit nach der Paarung, um ihre Spermien vor der Konkurrenz anderer Bullen zu schutzen, und nehmen dadurch eine Beschrankung ihrer Paarungsmoglichkeiten in Kauf. Im allgemeinen ist diese Bewachungszeit langer als die Paarungspause der Kuhe, die sich mehrmals paaren.
The structure of the space of solutions of Einstein's equations II: several Killing fields and the Einstein-Yang-Mills equations

The space of solutions of Einstein's vacuum equations is shown to have conical singularities at each spacetime possessing a compact Cauchy surface of constant mean curvature and a nontrivial set of Killing fields. Similar results are shown for the coupled Einstein-Yang-Mills system. Combined with an appropriate slice theorem, the' results show that the space of geometrically equivalent solutions is a stratified manifold with each stratum being a symplectic manifold characterized by the symmetry type of its members.
Acute Effects of Prostaglandin F2α on Ovarian and Luteal Blood Flow, Luteal Gonadotropin Uptake in Vivo, and Gonadotropin Binding in Vitro

The mechanism of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α)-induced luteolysis in mature, day 8 pseudopregnant rats was studied. PGF2α (2.2 mg/kg, sc) treatment resulted in a significant decrease in serum progesterone from 74 ± 4 to 50 ± 4, 44 ± 6, and 44 ± 4 ng/ml (mean ± SE) at 1, 4, and 12 h, respectively. This decrease in luteal function occurred simultaneously with a significant [125I]iodo-CG reduction in uptake by the corpus luteum in situ, but functional blood flow to the corpus luteum was not affected by PGF2α treatment, as assessed by the accumulation of radioactive microspheres (15 μm in diameter). No change in luteal gonadotropin-binding capacity measured in vitro was seen 1 or 4 h after PGF2α treatment, but a significant decrease of 24% in binding capacity occurred 12 h after PGF2α treatment. The affinity constant of the LH receptor remained unchanged (5.6 × 0.1 × 1011 M-1) at all time points studied. A transient but significant increase in functional blood flow to the ovarian interstitial tissue was observed ...
Prospects for a truly portable absolute gravimeter

Abstract We are in the process of developing a small portable absolute gravimeter that employs a cam-based dropping mechanism. The resulting high data rate (100 drops in 30 s) serves to compensate for the short (2 cm) dropping distance. We hope to achieve a measurement accuracy with this instrument of ±5 μgal.
Building vintage and electricity use: Old homes use less electricity in hot weather

Abstract This paper studies whether electricity use in newer or older residential buildings rises more in response to high temperature in a region of Southern California. Peak electricity demand occurs at the highest temperatures which are predicted to increase due to climate change. Understanding how newer buildings differ from older buildings improves forecasts of how peak electricity use will grow over time. Newer buildings are subject to stricter building energy codes, but are larger and more likely to have air conditioning; hence, the cumulative effect is ambiguous. This paper combines four large datasets of building and household characteristics, weather data, and utility data to estimate the electricity–temperature response of different building vintages. Estimation results show that new buildings (1970–2000) have a statistically significantly higher temperature response ( i.e. , use more electricity) than old buildings (pre1970). Auxiliary regressions with controls for tiered electricity prices, number of bedrooms, income, square footage, central air conditioning, ownership, and type of residential structure partially decompose the effect. Though California has had extensive energy efficiency building standards that by themselves would lower temperature response for new buildings, the cumulative effect of new buildings is an increase in temperature response. As new buildings are added, aggregate temperature response is predicted to increase .
Identification of palladin isoforms and characterization of an isoform-specific interaction between Lasp-1 and palladin.

Palladin is a recently described phosphoprotein with an important role in cytoskeletal organization. The major palladin isoform (90-92 kDa) binds to three actin-associated proteins (ezrin, VASP and α-actinin), suggesting that palladin functions as a cytoskeletal scaffold. Here, we describe the organization of the palladin gene, which encodes multiple isoforms, including one (140 kDa) with a similar localization pattern to 90 kDa palladin. Overexpression of the 90 kDa or 140 kDa isoforms in COS-7 cells results in rearrangements of the actin cytoskeleton into super-robust bundles and star-like arrays, respectively. Sequence analysis of 140 kDa palladin revealed a conserved binding site for SH3 domains, suggesting that it binds directly to the SH3-domain protein Lasp-1. Binding of 140 kDa palladin, but not 90 kDa palladin, to Lasp-1 was confirmed by yeast two-hybrid and GST-pull-down assays. Isoform-specific siRNA experiments suggested that 140 kDa palladin plays a role in recruiting Lasp-1 to stress fibers. These results add Lasp-1, an actin-binding protein with a crucial role in cell motility, to the growing list of palladin's binding partners, and suggest that 140 kDa palladin has a specialized function in organizing the actin arrays that participate in cell migration and/or cellular contractility.
What's Going on in Your Professor's Head? Demonstrating the Id, Ego, and Superego

This article describes an in-class activity designed to demonstrate Freud's structural theory of the psyche, specifically the roles of the id, ego, and superego, as well as the interplay among them. Additionally, the activity visually illustrates Freud's ideas about the levels of consciousness associated with these 3 components. Pre–post quiz performance, evaluation data, and student comments demonstrate that students learned from and enjoyed the activity. Suggestions for modifications of this activity are also discussed.
Chalcogenide inverted opal photonic crystal as infrared pigments

Large surface infrared photonic crystals with reflectance higher than 90% have successfully been synthesized by self-assembling large size SiO2 spheres, of 0.8 - 4.5 m diameters, followed by melt infiltration with the chalcogenide glass Ge33As12Se55 and the removal of the SiO2 spheres by chemical etching. The sphere size and the periodicity of the templates were chosen to guarantee the formation of photonic band gaps of the inverted opals in the targeted IR regions of 3-5 m and 8-12 m. Fabrication, structural features and spectral behavior of the reflectance peaks of these chalcogenide glass inverse opals are presented.
Inmate crime and victimization in a southwestern correctional facility

Victimization among inmates of a correctional facility poses significant problems for the successful control and treatment of inmates. This article presents results from a study of several possible influences on an adult male inmate's likelihood of committing personal crime, his likelihood of committing property crime, and his likelihood of being victimized by personal crime or property crime in a medium-security correctional facility located in the southwestern United States. Results suggest that the characteristics of offenders and victims differ in several respects. These characteristics are presented along with their implications for policies designed to reduce inmate victimization.
Self-administration of methohexital, midazolam and ethanol: effects on the pituitary–adrenal axis in rhesus monkeys

There is disagreement in the literature with respect to how drugs of abuse affect the functioning of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, and whether these changes in endocrine function may be related to the rewarding effects of these drugs. To determine whether reinforcing drugs with different mechanisms of action affect HPA axis function at doses at which they serve as reinforcers. Seven monkeys (6 male) were randomly assigned to self-administer methohexital—a barbiturate (n=4), midazolam—a benzodiazepine (n=3), or ethanol (n=5). Each monkey had a surgically implanted indwelling venous catheter, and was trained to respond on a fixed ratio of 30 lever presses to receive an injection of drug or saline. Blood samples were obtained before, during, and after the self-administration sessions for the measurement of ACTH and cortisol by radioimmunoassay. Although methohexital, midazolam, and ethanol all maintained self-administration behavior across a range of doses, they differed in their effects on ACTH and cortisol. Ethanol inhibited ACTH and cortisol secretion. Methohexital and midazolam both tended to decrease ACTH and cortisol at large doses, and increase these hormones at small doses, but the HPA effects of neither drug differed significantly from when saline was available. The neutral overall effect of methohexital and midazolam on HPA activity is consistent with other monkey and human studies, whereas the inhibitory effect of self-administered ethanol in the monkey contrasts with both the rat and human literature. The data in this study suggest that a change in HPA axis activity is not a requirement for drug-reinforced behavior in monkeys.
The Prevalence, Causes, and Consequences of Experiencing a Life Crisis During Medical School

Background: Little is known about the prevalence, causes, and consequences of experiencing a major life crisis during medical school. Purpose: The objective is to describe the prevalence, causes, and consequences through internship of experiencing a major life crisis while enrolled as a medical student at Uniformed Services University (USU). Method: USU graduates from 1980 to 1999 were surveyed regarding their experiences at USU and career milestones. Predictor markers were obtained from the USU Admissions, Promotions, and Registrar's office. Outcome data were derived from a survey of intern program directors from the years 1993 to 1999. Results: There were 1,807 (67%) of USU graduates who responded to our survey. There were 394 (22%) who reported experiencing a major life crisis during medical school. Graduates reporting a major life crisis performed slightly poorer in terms of basic science GPAs (2.95 vs. 2.85, p <.001), USMLE exam scores, and performance ratings by their program directors than did grad...
Haemolytic anaemia and renal failure associated with antibodies to trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole.

Aim: The aim of this study was to support a clinical diagnosis of drug-induced immune haemolytic anaemia (DIIHA). Background: DIIHA is rare and has only been described twice with the antibiotic combination of trimethoprim (TMP) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX). Methods/Materials: Serologic tests for drug antibodies were performed using methods previously published by our laboratory. Results: A 44-year-old woman experienced body aches, chills, chest pressure, nausea and a rash while receiving TMP–SMX; a week later her haemoglobin was low and she was in renal failure. At the hospital, the direct antiglobulin test (DAT) was positive (C3 only) and the serum reacted with all red blood cells (RBCs) by the gel method only (TMP–SMX is present in the RBC diluent used for the gel method). At the Red Cross immunohaematology laboratory, the patient's serum was reactive in the presence of TMP–SMX (haemolysis and positive antiglobulin test), pure TMP (positive antiglobulin test using anti-IgG only) and pure SMX (haemolysis and positive antiglobulin test using both anti-IgG and anti-C3). The patient was treated with transfusions and haemodialysis and was discharged after a week in stable condition. Conclusion: We describe a patient who appeared to have haemolytic anaemia and renal failure associated with antibodies to both TMP and SMX.