cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Frequency domain computations for nonlinear steady-state solutions

Steady-state analysis and Fourier analysis play a major role in linear signal processing. In response to a bounded input, a steady-state solution exists if all the poles of the discrete-time linear system are inside the unit circle. Despite the fact that there is no principle of superposition for nonlinear systems, under appropriate sufficient conditions (including all poles inside the unit circle for the linear part of the nonlinear system), there is a bounded solution for all time in response to a bounded input for all time for a time-varying nonlinear difference equation. All solutions that start sufficiently close to this unique solution converge to it as time goes to infinity. This steady-state solution can be computed by applying Fourier and inverse Fourier transforms to each step in a Picard process. In this paper, we develop an algorithm to compute (approximate) steady-state solutions for discrete-time, nonlinear difference equations by employing fast Fourier transforms and inverse fast Fourier transforms at each step of the iterative process. Simulations are provided to illustrate our algorithm.
Spin dependence in pp scattering in the Coulomb-nuclear interference region

The analyzing power {ital A}{sub {ital y}}({theta}) for {ital pp} elastic scattering at 185.4 MeV has been measured with a new technique in which the polarized beam in a storage ring was scattered from an internal H{sub 2} gas target. The measurement covered the angular range {theta}{sub c.m.}=5.45{degree}--21.36{degree}, where {ital A}{sub {ital y}} is dominated by interference between Coulomb and nuclear amplitudes. It is found that electromagnetic spin-orbit effects are required to explain the data. The present measurement demonstrates for the first time the feasibility and the advantages of nuclear physics experiments with polarized beams in storage rings.
Structure-Based Virtual Screening for Plant-Based ERβ-Selective Ligands as Potential Preventative Therapy against Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases

ERbeta has been associated with estrogen-induced promotion of memory function and neuronal survival. Based on the optimized complex structure of human ERbeta LBD bound with genistein, computer-aided structure-based virtual screening against a natural source chemical database was conducted to determine the occurrence of plant-based ERbeta-selective ligands. Twelve representative hits derived from database screening were assessed for their binding profiles to both ERs, three of which displayed over 100-fold binding selectivity to ERbeta over ERalpha.
Metalations in hydrocarbon solvents; media effects on n-BuLi reactivity

Abstract The relative basicities of solutions of n -BuLi in cyclohexane as a function of the addition of increasing increments of THF or TMEDA (designer media) have been assessed. As the chloro DMG is incapable of complexing to n -BuLi, it can neither affect the n -BuLi oligomeric equilibrium nor exhibit a DoM mechanistic component involving prior-coordination (CIPE). Accordingly, by measuring the rates of loss of chlorobenzene in the varied media as well as by certain 7 Li NMR studies, a gradual, controlled increase in the basicity of n -BuLi in cyclohexane with increasing increments of THF or TMEDA was observed. Relationships of the basicity in the varied media to the three oligomeric forms of n -BuLi are proposed.
Intraoperative Imprint Cytology of Ovarian Brenner Tumors: A Retrospective Study

s S37 Results: All samples tested in the original run returned a clear HPV result. Seventeen samples tested positive for one or more high-risk HPV types; 77 were negative. With re-testing after 90 days, 10 samples tested positive. Nine remained the same; one lost positivity for HPV 16, but tested positive for ‘other high risk’ strains. Thirteen samples returned an invalid test result. One of these originally tested positive for HPV ‘other high-risk subtypes’ and 12 others originally tested negative. All of the invalid test results were reversed after performing a procedure to recover DNA, however only one specimen that tested positive for HPV in the original run was fully recovered after treating the specimens with tissue lysis buffer. Conclusions: HPV DNA signal is lost when specimens are stored in SurePath fixative. This loss of signal increases invalid results and decreases the variety of positives. The consequence of this could be false negative or invalid results if testing is delayed. The ability of the recovery process to reverse invalid results shows an adequate amount of cellular DNA is present beyond 90 days; however, the lower level of HPV DNA is critical for signal loss. Determining the cause for HPV DNA signal loss is a topic for future study.
Postoperative Epidural Injection of Saline Can Shorten Postanesthesia Care Unit Time for Knee Arthroscopy Patients

Abstract Background and Objectives. The goal of this prospective, double-blind study was to ascertain if the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) stay of outpatients receiving epidural anesthesia for knee arthroscopy is decreased by injection of epidural saline at the end of the case. Methods. Twenty healthy patients undergoing knee arthroscopy received lumbar epidural anesthesia with 2% lidocaine. At the end of surgery, in a double-blind design, group 1 patients (intervention group) received 20 mL 0.9% saline injected into the epidural catheter. Patients in group 2 (control group) had 1 mL 0.9% saline injected into the epidural catheter. In the PACU, the epidural catheter was removed, and motor block was assessed at 15-minute intervals according to the Bromage scale. Standard discharge criteria for our ambulatory surgery center were followed. Results. Patients who received 20 mL epidural 0.9% saline remained in phase I (intensive nursing) 83 ± 8 minutes compared with control patients who stayed 110 ± 8 minutes (P
The Endless Complexity of Lymphocyte Differentiation and Lymphomagenesis: IRF-4 Downregulates BCL6 Expression

The BCL6 gene is a key factor necessary for formation of germinal centers and is implicated in pathogenesis of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). In this issue of Cancer Cell, Saito and colleagues explore regulation of BCL6 gene expression by CD40-NF-kappaB signaling pathway and show that the IRF4 transcriptional factor, induced by the NF-kappaB canonical pathway, directly downregulates BCL6 expression. The authors further demonstrate that this negative regulatory mechanism may be disturbed in DLBCLs harboring BCL6 gene translocations or mutations. These finding suggest that IRF4 may function as a key regulator of germinal center reaction and a guardian of lymphomagenesis.
Monitoring the 1996 Drought Using the Standardized Precipitation Index

Abstract Droughts are difficult to detect and monitor. Drought indices, most commonly the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI), have been used with limited success as operational drought monitoring tools and triggers for policy responses. Recently, a new index, the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), was developed to improve drought detection and monitoring capabilities. The SPI has several characteristics that are an improvement over previous indices, including its simplicity and temporal flexibility, that allow its application for water resources on all timescales. In this article, the 1996 drought in the southern plains and southwestern United States is examined using the SPI. A series of maps are used to illustrate how the SPI would have assisted in being able to detect the onset of the drought and monitor its progression. A case study investigating the drought in greater detail for Texas is also given. The SPI demonstrated that it is a tool that should be used operationally as part of a state, re...
Isolation, characterization and immunocytochemical localization of bovine trophoblast protein-1.

Bovine tropho blast protein-I (bTP-I) was isolated to 90% purity from culture medium of Day 18-20 con- ceptuses incubated in vitro (in the presence of L-(3H)leucine) by a combination of Sephacryl S-200 gel filtration chromatography and O-(diethylaminoethyl) (DEAE) anion-exchange highperformance liquid chromatog- raphy (DEAE-HPLC). The radiolabeled protein had an Mr of 21,200 ± 800 by one-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-p olyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and had three isoelectric variants (p1 5.7-6.5) by two- dimensional SDS-PAGE. DEAE-HPLC-enriched bTP-1 cross-reacted with anti-oTP-1 serum on Western blots. A monospecific antiserum against bTP-1 was produced by excising the bTP-I polypeptide band from preparative SDS-PAGE gels. Antiserum reacted with a single polypeptide with an Mr of 21,200 as determined by Western blotting of SDS-PA GE-separated conceptus medium proteins and by immunoprecipitation from L-(35SJmethio- nine-labeled medium proteins followed by SDS -PAGE and autoradiography. Bovine trophoblast protein-I was localized by immunocytochemistry in the cytoplasm of both mono- and binuclear trophectoderm cells of Day 20 bovine conceptuses, indicating that it is a product of the trophoblast.
Multi-Channel RADAR Depth Sounder (MCRDS) signal processing: A distributed computing approach

In response to problems surrounding measuring ice sheet thickness in high attenuation areas of Greenland and the Antarctic, the Center for the Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets (CReSIS) created a Multi-Channel RADAR Depth Sounder (MCRDS). The MCRDS system was used to measure ice thicknesses of up to five kilometers in depth. This system produced large datasets, which required greater processing capabilities in the field. The purpose of this project was to test processing performance on a 32-core cluster through distributed computing resources. Testing involved a six-node cluster with an attached storage array and use of the CReSIS Synthetic Aperture RADAR Processor (CSARP) through the MATLAB Distributed Server Job Manager. Performance testing was derived from average run times collected once CSARP jobs completed. The run times were then compared using an ANOVA test with a five percent significance level.
Psychological Distress in Different Social Network Members of Breast and Prostate Cancer Survivors

The purposes of this investigation were to compare psychological distress among cancer survivors' social network members with different relationships with the survivors and to compare their reported levels of distress with population norms. Participants in this investigation included spouses/significant others (n = 153), siblings (n = 11), adult children (n = 25), parents (n = 10), cousins (n = 6), and friends/others (n = 10) of English or Spanish speaking women with breast cancer and English speaking men with prostate cancer. Network members reported on their symptoms of depression, positive and negative affect, anxiety, and relationship satisfaction. The psychological distress among all relationship types was similar. Spouses, and to a lesser extent, adult children were the only groups whose levels of psychological distress were above population norms. Relationship satisfaction was negatively associated with social network members' psychological distress, and female network members had higher levels of depression than male network members due, in part, to higher perceived stress among female network members. These findings highlight the need to consider the potentially deleterious impact of cancer not just on survivors' spouses, but on other social network members as well and to make services available to network members who may play an important role in the survivor's care and adjustment. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:450–464, 2010
A Dogleg "Optimal" Channel Router with Completion Enhancements

Routing algorithms have been developed for use in automatic Integrated Circuit (IC) layout programs. The algorithms address the following issues: (1) completion enhancements to eliminate cyclic constraints and achieve 100 percent routing completion, although possibly sacrificing optimality; (2) a dogleg "optimal" channel router which allows more than one horizontal segment per net and uses a branch and bound method to find a minimal routing for the given set of nets; and (3) shortcut techniques to reduce the amount of time spent using the branch and bound method.
Spatial and temporal characterization of Hoar Formation in central Greenland using SSM/I brightness temperatures

The summertime formation and burial of low-density, coarse-grained, hoar layers in the snow of central Greenland can be mapped using satellite passive-microwave data. Variations in a signal derived from Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I) brightness temperature trends correlate temporally and spatially with hoar complex evolution over ≈120,000 km² of the Greenland ice sheet's dry firn facies. Observations at the Greenland Ice Sheet Project II (GISP2) site indicate that changes in surface conditions and brightness temperatures correspond to four hoar events over two summers, as expected from theory. Following a snowfall, the smooth, high-density surface reflects some emitted, 37 GHz, horizontally-polarized (H) radiation but little vertically-polarized (V) radiation. Progressive surface roughness increases and density decreases during hoar formation cause a gradual decrease in H reflection. Formation and burial of a hoar layer thus causes a slow decrease followed by an abrupt increase in the V/H ratio. Hoar layers have been used to date the GISP2 ice core through the entire Holocene; archived microwave data now can be used to assess the timing and frequency of the formation of these stratigraphic markers in central Greenland.
Amine‐catalyzed polymer encapsulation of cotton fibers by vapor phase application of formaldehyde

A process for encapsulating cotton fibers in the form of woven clothes at ambient temperatures with polyoxymethylene is described. It involves pretreatment of the cotton with a carbon tetrachloride solution of tributylamine and diphenylamine to deposit the basic catalyst on the surface of the fibers. Subsequent exposure to dry, purified vapors of monomeric formaldehyde at 25°C results in the encapsulation of individual fibers with high molecular weight polyoxymethylene. The process is relatively fast (30% fiber weight gain in approx. 20 min) with the polymer located only at the fiber surfaces. Fiber cementation does not become pronounced for weight increases below approximately 60%–65% based upon the weight of the fibers. Thickness of the polymer sheath increases with the time of the polymerization reaction. Because of the uniformity of the polymer layer deposition, the encapsulated cotton cellulose fibers can be expected to exhibit substantially different physical and chemical surface properties even at low polymer add-on. The tensile and tear strengths of the polyoxymethylene-encapsulated cotton fibers are generally improved, with some gains in abrasion resistance also noted. Differential staining techniques and polarized light microscopy have shown the location and uniformity of the polymer sheaths.
Magnetic resonance and Mössbauer studies of GdSr2Cu2RuO8

Abstract GdSr 2 Cu 2 RuO 8 superconducts at an onset temperature T c ≈45 K, and exhibits a low-field magnetic resonance, which the evidence suggests is due to magnetically ordered Cu. Since Bernhard et al. [Phys. Rev. B 59 (1999) 1409] have shown that the magnetism and the superconductivity are homogeneous, it follows that if the cuprate planes are homogeneously magnetic, the superconductivity must be located, not in the cuprate planes, but in the SrO layers. Alternatively there are magnetically ordered Cu impurities on Ru sites, with a locally inhomogeneous magnetization.
Function point counting: one program's experience

Abstract A recent software development program implemented as a series of overlapping increments in a new development environment provided both the need and opportunity to evaluate several estimating methods for use in project planning. Several estimating methods including variants of function point counting were evaluated during this project. The project structure allowed evaluation of these methods in practice. The function point counting method chosen as the basic estimating method over most of the project was consistently applied in an essentially stable development environment for about two years. In spite of the stability in environment and development personnel, interesting variations in function point counts across time were observed. This paper documents the variations observed and speculates on how such variations may be measuring intrinsic differences within the development process rather than differences in counting ability. A framework based on this variation is proposed as a possible way to objectively measure development variations in design and implementation efficiency.
Ribulose-1, 5-bisphosphate carboxylase from comfrey: Isolation and characterization

Abstract Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase has been purified to electrophoretic homogeneity from comfrey, Symphytum spp. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis studies on the purified product showed no extraneous proteins. Comparisons of the electrophoretic mobilities of the subunits to those of standard proteins indicated a large subunit MW of 50 000 and a small subunit of 12 700, which for an octameric structure of each subunit indicates a native MW of 502 000. Specific activities of the comfrey enzyme ranged from 1.2 to nearly 2 μmol 14 CO 2 fixed/min.mg of protein over several preparations and were maintained for months when stored from the sucrose gradient at − 70°. The specific activities depended critically on the amounts of enzyme used in the assay even under saturating conditions of substrates and cofactors. The effective pH dependence for carboxylase catalysis peaked near 7.4, which apparently is the lowest elective optimum yet reported for this enzyme from any source. However, on a constant carbon dioxide basis the pH dependence profile was reversed with a maximum near pH 8.6 which was 0.4 units higher than the value for the spinach enzyme. The K m s for carbon dioxide and ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate at pH 7.5 were 130 μM and 30 μM, respectively, which are comparable to the accepted values for the carboxylase from spinach at pH 7.2.
Political Institutions and Foreign Debt in the Developing World

Why did some developing country governments accumulate large foreign debt burdens in the late twentieth century while others did not? I hypothesize that variation in foreign indebtedness is a product of the impact of regime type on government borrowing and investment decisions. Autocratic regimes will borrow more from foreign lenders and invest fewer of these funds in public goods than democratic regimes. Consequently, autocracies are more likely to develop large foreign debt burdens than democracies. I test this hypothesis by estimating error correction models against a sample comprising 78 developing countries between 1976 and 1998. The analysis suggests that autocratic governments accumulated substantially larger foreign debt relative to their national income than democratic governments. The analysis has implications for the likely consequences of contemporary debt relief initiatives.
Methods for Characterizing Participants' Nonmainstream Dialect Use in Child Language Research

Three different approaches to the characterization of research participants' nonmainstream dialect use can be found in the literature. They include listener judgment ratings, type-based counts of n...
“I Won't Last Three Weeks”: Preservice Science Teachers Reflect on Their Student-Teaching Experiences

In many teacher preparation programs, student teaching serves as a culminating event that bridges academic coursework and the realities of classroom teaching. Therefore, it represents a significant aspect of preservice teacher education. This study explored student teaching as it was experienced by 13 middle and secondary science preservice teachers. Qualitative techniques were used to analyze individual interviews, group seminar sessions, and written reflections to construct a phenomenological account of student teaching as experienced by the preservice teachers. The aim was to construct a picture of the shared experiences of these student teachers to help understand how they struggled, succeeded, and learned as a part of their classroom practica. These findings are then used to draw implications for science teacher education.
Immunohistochemical identification of Skn antigens in mouse epidermis.

Rejection of murine skin grafts by hematopoietic chimeras that are fully compatible genetically with the skin-graft donor has been attributed to a disparity in skin-selective alloantigens between the irradiated host and the skin graft donor, Monoclonal antibodies recognizing Skna alloantigen were produced and used in indirect immunofluorescent and immunoperoxidase tests with sections of skin to demonstrate and confirm the expression of Skna alloantigen on epidermal cells of Skna genotype and absence of Skna alloantigen from epidermal cells of non-Skna genotype.
Versatility of a Mini-Trapdoor Incision in Upper Mediastinal Exposure

Exposure of the upper mediastinum and thoracic outlet can pose major surgical challenges. We report our application of a previously described mini-trapdoor incision to a variety of surgical problems involving the upper mediastinum and thoracic outlet, including subclavian vein thrombosis, penetrating subclavian artery injury, debridement of subjacent chest wall infection, lymph node excision, and Pancoast tumor resection. This versatile approach provides excellent structural visualization while obviating clavicular resection or sternoclavicular joint disruption, or both.
Crx, a novel otx-like homeobox gene, shows photoreceptor-specific expression and regulates photoreceptor differentiation.

We have isolated a novel otx-like homeobox gene, Crx, from the mouse retina. Crx expression is restricted to developing and mature photoreceptor cells. CRX bound and transactivated the sequence TAATCC/A, which is found upstream of several photoreceptor-specific genes, including the opsin genes from many species. Overexpression of Crx using a retroviral vector increased the frequency of clones containing exclusively rod photoreceptors and reduced the frequency of clones containing amacrine interneurons and Muller glial cells. In addition, presumptive photoreceptor cells expressing a dominant-negative form of CRX failed to form proper photoreceptor outer segments and terminals. Crx is a novel photoreceptor-specific transcription factor and plays a crucial role in the differentiation of photoreceptor cells.
Effect of Pile-Up on Nanoindentation Measurements of Polycrystalline Bulk Metals

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation on the effects of orientation and grain size on nanoindentation measurements of hardness and modulus of elasticity for three polycrystalline metals: copper, nickel, and iron. Three geometrically different indenter tips were used, and the pile-ups were characterized with a surface probe instrument. The electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to characterize grain orientation and microstructure. It was found that additional contact areas due to pile-ups have a significant effect on determination of mechanical properties by the nanoindenter.
The relationship between cohabitation and divorce: Selectivity or causal influence?

Recent evidence linking premarital cohabitation to high rates of divorce poses a complex theoretical and empirical puzzle. We develop hypotheses predicting that premarital cohabitation is selective of those who are prone to divorce as well as hypotheses predicting that the experience of premarital cohabitation produces attitudes and values which increase the probability of divorce. Using multiwave panel data from a recent cohort of young men and women in the United States, we specify and test models of these predictions. The results are consistent with hypotheses suggesting that cohabitation is selective of men and women who are less committed to marriage and more approving of divorce. The results also are consistent with the conclusion that cohabiting experiences significantly increase young people's acceptance of divorce.
Maturational changes in airway smooth muscle shortening and relaxation. Implications for asthma

Greater airway responsiveness in healthy juveniles is considered a factor in the higher asthma prevalence at a young age compared with adults. Several studies on the contractile response of airway smooth muscle (ASM) from birth to adulthood have addressed the hypothesis that a maturation of ASM plays a role in juvenile airway hyperresponsiveness. Maturation of distinct ASM properties, i.e. force generation, shortening, and relaxation, has been reported, although the majority of the studies have focused on maturation of maximum force and/or sensitivity to contractile agonists. However, in most animal species maturation of the ability to generate force does not correlate with maturation of airway responsiveness. Ontogenesis of ASM shortening has been less extensively studied and the existing reports emphasize an increase during maturation of tissue passive forces opposing shortening. ASM spontaneous relaxation has been very minimally investigated. We have recently demonstrated that the ability of ASM to spontaneously relax during stimulation is sharply reduced in juvenile airway tissue. It remains to be determined the role of these ASM properties in the onset of childhood asthma and whether specific alterations are induced by the occurrence of obstructive airway diseases in young individuals.
Nitric oxide released from zwitterionic polyamine/NO adducts inhibits Cu2+‐induced low density lipoprotein oxidation

The effects of nitrix oxide (NO) released from zwitterionic polyamine/NO adducts on Cu2+-induced low density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation were studied. When each of the two kinds of NO releasing zwitterionic polyamine/NO adducts (NOC5 and NOC7) was incubated at 5 μM with isolated human LDL (0.25 mg/ml) and Cu2+, the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) was inhibited. The duration of inhibition by NOC7 (20 min) and NOC5 (100 min) corresponded to the NO generation lives of respective zwitterionic polyamine/NO adducts. The duration of inhibition was dependent on the amount of NOC5 added (2.5–20 μM). Repeated additions of 5 μM NOC5 at 100 min intervals worked as inhibitor in the same manner. NOC5 broke to inhibit at any process of the Cu2+-induced LDL oxidation reaction. Fragmentation of apolipoprotein B derived from Cu2+-induced LDL oxidation was also prevented by the addition of NOC5. These results clearly indicate that NO inhibits the oxidative modification of LDL induced by Cu2+. NO releasing zwitterionic polyamine/NO adducts are good reagents for NO studies.
One user, one password: integrating unix accounts and active directory

The University of New Hampshire has a history of using centralized Unix accounts to authenticate user access to computers in the public Student Computing Clusters. The advent of Windows 2000 meant that changes would be necessary to support the Active Directory architecture underlying Windows 2000 authentication and authorization. Given limited resources, manually maintaining Active Directory accounts for over 12000 students is an impossibility. A new system was needed to automatically generate an Active Directory account for each and every Unix user and to synchronize password and other account information with as little system administrator intervention as possible. Using a combination of technology from Microsoft and various scripts developed within the UNH Computing and Information Services group, we have created just such a system. For every newly created Unix account, an Active Directory account with an identical user name is generated. Password changes on the Unix systems pass the corresponding password update to the Active Directory domain controllers to assure that the accounts remain synchronized. This system has functioned for a full academic year with only minimal issues. With this infrastructure in place, we hope to be able to leverage it in other fashions.
In vivo degradation characteristics of bioabsorbable cross-pins in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract Background We evaluated degradation of bioabsorbable femoral cross-pins following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Methods Four patients underwent ACL reconstruction using hamstring autograft with femoral fixation provided by a polylactic acid/polyglycolic acid copolymer (LactoSorb L15) cross-pin. Serial computed tomography (CT) scans were performed of the reconstructed knees at approximately 6 weeks, 4 months, 1 year and 2 years, postoperatively. A radiologist evaluated the scans for density of pins and surrounding bone and pin morphology. Results The cross-pins demonstrated a relative reduction in density of 7.7%, 49.1%, and 75.0% at 4 months, 1 year and 2 years, respectively. Bone density values adjacent to the pin decreased by an mean of 8.6% between 6 weeks and 4 months. At one year an additional 14.2% reduction in bone density was seen but at 2 years the relative reduction in bone density had decreased to 7.4%. Evaluation of pin morphology revealed that minimal change had occurred after 6 weeks. At 4 months all of the pins were showing some morphologic changes on the surface, but none had fractured. After 1 year, two of the pins had fractured. By 2 years all of the pins had fractured. None of the pins had completely reabsorbed at 2 years postoperatively. Conclusions LactoSorb L15 cross-pins for femoral fixation in ACL reconstruction remain largely unchanged 4 months postoperatively, suggesting that this device maintains the necessary structural integrity to allow early integration of soft tissue grafts within bone tunnels. Level of evidence IV, case series.
Silver-enhanced copper staining of protein blots

Copper staining of protein blots has previously been shown to detect proteins rapidly, quantitatively, and sensitively. The sensitivity of this assay can now be enhanced nearly 10-fold with an additional step of silver staining. The silver-enhanced assay retains many of the virtues of copper staining, including a quantitative optical response with the amount of adsorbed protein, low variation between proteins, and reversibility. In addition, both copper staining and silver-enhanced copper staining do not detect nucleic acid, thus allowing for selective measurement of nucleic acid binding proteins or protein contamination in nucleic acid preparations. Silver-enhancement requires only a 5-min incubation with a single reagent. Since copper staining is performed first, it can be used to determine if the greater sensitivity provided by silver enhancement is desirable. For quantitation, an inexpensive reflectance scanning densitometer utilizing optical scanners and NIH Image is described.
The Magic of (A)ffective Management

(A)ffective management is a people-first approach to managing employees. After all, employees and supervisors are people first. No matter how hard any individual may try, inevitably the stress and strain of life outside of work can and will bleed through into the work environment. The (A)ffective and effective manager understands this and incorporates this understanding into how he/she interacts with superiors and subordinates in the work environment on a daily basis. This article offers strategies on how to be an (A)ffective manager.
Comparison of Probiotic and Antibiotic Intramammary Therapy of Cattle with Elevated Somatic Cell Counts

The effects of treating subclinical mastitis with intramammary infusions of either a Lactobacillus or an antibiotic preparation on intramammary infection cure rate and on milk SCC were compared. Cows with two consecutive monthly DHIA composite SCC greater than 300,000 cells/ml (5.4771 log10/ml) were defined as high SCC cows. Twenty-six subclinical cows were randomly assigned to one of two treatments. Quarter foremilk samples were obtained from all quarters at d 0, 7, and 14 following infusion to determine the microbiological status and SCC. Composite milk SCC were determined monthly by DHIA and at d 0, 7, and 14 of the study. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the predominantly isolated pathogens. Treatment of cows with Lactobacillus cured 21.7% of infected quarters, whereas 73.7% of infections treated with antibiotic were eliminated. Treatment of quarters with antibiotic did not reduce quarter SCC unless infected quarters were cured. Intramammary infusion of quarters with Lactobacillus increased quarter SCC, mainly because of an increase in SCC of initially uninfected, low SCC quarters. Monthly composite SCC were similar between treatments. The results indicate that administering Lactobacillus or antibiotic treatment to all quarters based on elevated composite SCC should not be adopted. Lactobacillus treatment increased SCC with no effect on infection rate.
Seed Dispersal and Seedling Emergence in a Created and a Natural Salt Marsh on the Gulf of Mexico Coast in Southwest Louisiana, U.S.A.

Early regeneration dynamics related to seed dispersal and seedling emergence can contribute to differences in species composition among a created and a natural salt marsh. The objectives of this study were to determine (1) whether aquatic and aerial seed dispersal differed in low and high elevations within a created marsh and a natural marsh and (2) whether seedling emergence was influenced by marsh, the presence of openings in the vegetation, and seed availability along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast. Aerial seed traps captured a greater quantity of seeds than aquatic traps. Several factors influenced aquatic and aerial seed dispersal in a created and a natural salt marsh, including distance from the marsh edge, cover of existing vegetation, and water depth. The natural marsh had a high seed density of Spartina alterniflora and Distichlis spicata, the low-elevation created marsh had a high seed density of S. alterniflora, and the high-elevation created marsh had a high seed density of Aster subulatus and Iva frutescens. The presence of adult plants and water depth above the marsh surface influenced seed density. In the natural marsh, openings in vegetation increased seedling emergence for all species, whereas in the low-elevation created marsh, S. alterniflora had higher seedling density under a canopy of vegetation. According to the early regeneration dynamics, the future vegetation in areas of the low-elevation created marsh may become similar to that in the natural marsh. In the high-elevation created marsh, vegetation may be upland fringe habitat dominated by high-elevation marsh shrubs and annual herbaceous species.
Induction and decline of hepatic cytochromes P4501A1 and 1A2 in rats exposed to hyperoxia are not paralleled by changes in glutathione S-transferase-α

We investigated the effects of hyperoxia on the activities of hepatic ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) (CYP1A1), methoxyresorufin O-demethylase (MROD) (CYP1A2), and glutathione transferase-alpha (GST-alpha), and the status of protein thiols (PSH) in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Twenty-four h of hyperoxia more than doubled EROD and MROD activities, which were increased 7.6- and 3.3-fold, respectively, after 48 h of hyperoxia. The increases in EROD and MROD activities were paralleled by enhanced CYP1A1/1A2 apoproteins contents, as detected by Western analysis. At 60 h of hyperoxia, by which time hyperoxic Sprague-Dawley rats display marked respiratory distress, pulmonary edema, and other markers of pulmonary dysfunction, the activities and levels of hepatic CYP1A1 and 1A2 had declined dramatically and returned to levels observed in air-breathing control animals. Hepatic activities of GST-alpha, as well as PSH status, were not altered significantly in the hyperoxic animals at any time point. The marked induction and subsequent decline of hepatic CYP1A1/1A2 activities in rats exposed to hyperoxia suggest that these enzymes may contribute to the mechanisms of injury and/or to adaptive responses to hyperoxic exposures in vivo.
Optimal Object Localization Using Dual Number Quaternions

This paper presents a new algorithm for determining the position and orientation of objects. The problem is formulated as an optimization problem using dual number quaternions. It is shown that this reduces to an eigenvalue problem for which standard software library routines can be used to obtain the solution.
Unique ergodicity of flows on homogeneous spaces

LetG be a unimodular Lie group, Γ a co-compact discrete subgroup ofG and ‘a’ a semisimple element ofG. LetT a be the mapgΓ →ag Γ:G/Γ →G/Γ. The following statements are pairwise equivalent: (1) (T a, G/Γ,θ) is weak-mixing. (2) (T a, G/Γ) is topologically weak-mixing. (3) (G u, G/Γ) is uniquely ergodic. (4) (G u, G/Γ,θ) is ergodic. (5) (G u, G/Γ) is point transitive. (6) (G u, G/Γ) is minimal. If in additionG is semisimple with finite center and no compact factors, then the statement “(T a, G/Γ,θ) is ergodic” may be added to the above list.
Management of gastrogastric fistulas after divided Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery for morbid obesity: analysis of 1292 consecutive patients and review of literature

Background Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is the most commonly performed bariatric operation in the United States. Although rare, gastrogastric fistulas are an important complication of this procedure. Methods We report a series of 1292 consecutive patients who underwent a divided RYGB procedure at our institution between January 2000 and November 2004. Of the 1292 patients, we identified 15 (1.2%) who presented with gastrogastric fistulas after surgery. Results The mean age, weight, and body mass index of these patients was 39.5 years, 377.5 lb, and 54.9 kg/m2, respectively. The mean postoperative follow-up was 17.6 months. The overall follow-up success rate in this series at 1 and 2 years postoperatively was 85% and 77%, respectively. Of the 15 patients, 12 (80%) presented with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain. Esophagogastroscopy revealed marginal ulcers in 8 (53%) of these symptomatic patients. The most sensitive test for the diagnosis of gastrogastric fistula was an upper gastrointestinal contrast study. The mean time to fistula diagnosis was 80 days. Four patients (27%) had had a known leak before their diagnosis of gastrogastric fistula. In all cases, the leaks were managed nonoperatively with drainage, parenteral nutrition, and bowel rest. In this subset of patients, the mean time to fistula diagnosis was 25 days. Four patients (27%) presented to the clinic unsatisfied with their weight loss. The mean excess percentage of weight loss was 60.9%. Of the 15 patients with a diagnosed gastrogastric fistula, 8 (53.3%) presented with concomitant marginal ulcers. When present, marginal ulcers were managed with chronic acid suppressive therapy consisting of proton pump inhibitors and sucralfate. Revisional surgery was performed in 5 (33.3%) of 15 patients because of the combination of constant pain and ulceration refractory to optimal medical treatment and in 1 patient (7%) because of refractory pain unresponsive to medical therapy and weight regain. All revisional procedures (100%) were performed laparoscopically. Conclusion Gastrogastric fistulas are an uncommon, but worrisome, complication after divided RYGB. Most symptoms of gastrogastric fistula are related to epigastric pain and ulcerations around the anastomotic site, but the fistula can occur anywhere along the divided segment of the gastric wall. They can initially be managed with a conservative, nonoperative approach as long as the patient remains asymptomatic and weight regain does not occur. Refractory ulcers and pain are the main indications for revisional surgery. Weight loss failure or weight regain is an uncommon short-term finding with gastrogastric fistulas after divided RYGB that requires surgical revision as the definitive treatment option. Although we present one of the largest series to date, longer follow-up is needed to better define the management of this patient population and provide a more accurate incidence of its occurrence.
Ballistic-phonon propagation in LiF

The interaction between high-frequency ballistic phonons and mass defects in LiF of natural isotopic composition has been studied with the use of a heat-pulse technique. Studies were made as a function of input power for samples of various length oriented along the [111] direction. The results indicate that surface imperfections have a profound effect on the transmission of high-frequency phonons. The experiments on suitably prepared surfaces yield a phonon scattering rate which is in excellent agreement with theoretical predictions and thermal conductivity measurements.
Experience with a novel approach to upper-pole nephrectomy and partial ureterectomy

The upper-pole moiety of a renal duplication anomaly associated with an ectopic ureter or ureterocele is often hydronephrotic and non-functioning. Thus, the treatment of choice is frequently upper-pole nephrectomy and partial ureterectomy. Previous surgical techniques have emphasized the initial removal of the upper pole followed by partial ureterectomy. The approach described here begins by identifying and dissecting the obstructed upper-pole ureter, dividing it distally, and performing the partial nephrectomy last. We have performed this procedure on 12 consecutive nonfunctioning and obstructed upper-pole moieties of duplicated kidneys. In 10 patients the obstructed upper pole was associated with an ectopic ureter or an ectopic ureterocele (bilateral in 1) and in 1 with uretero-pelvic junction obstruction of the upper-pole moiety. This anatomic approach has resulted in preservation of function in all 12 remaining lower renal and ureteral units as assessed by postoperative intravenous urography. Only 1 patient required an intraoperative blood transfusion. We believe that this safe and easy-to-teach approach should be included in the urologic armamentarium.
Long-term behavioral impairment following acute embryonic ethanol exposure in zebrafish.

Abstract Background Developmental exposure to ethanol has long been known to cause persisting neurobehavioral impairment. However, the neural and behavioral mechanisms underlying these deficits and the importance of exposure timing are not well-characterized. Given the importance of timing and sequence in neurodevelopment it would be expected that alcohol intoxication at different developmental periods would result in distinct neurobehavioral consequences. Methods Zebrafish embryos were exposed to ethanol (0%, 1%, 3%) at either 8–10 or 24–27 h post-fertilization (hpf) then reared to adolescence and evaluated on several behavioral endpoints. Habituation to a repeated environmental stimulus and overall sensorimotor function were assessed using a tap startle test; measurements of anxiety and exploration behavior were made following introduction to a novel tank; and spatial discrimination learning was assessed using aversive control in a three-chambered apparatus. Overt signs of dysmorphogenesis were also scored (i.e. craniofacial malformations, including eye diameter and midbrain-hindbrain boundary morphology). Results Ethanol treated fish were more active both at baseline and following a tap stimulus compared to the control fish and were hyperactive when placed in a novel tank. These effects were more prominent following exposure at 24–27 hpf than with the earlier exposure window, for both dose groups. Increases in physical malformation were only present in the 3% ethanol group; all malformed fish were excluded from behavioral testing. Discussion These results suggest specific domains of behavior are affected following ethanol exposure, with some but not all of the tests revealing significant impairment. The behavioral phenotypes following distinct exposure windows described here can be used to help link cellular and molecular mechanisms of developmental ethanol exposure to functional neurobehavioral effects.
Simultaneous measurement of velocity and CH layer distribution in turbulent non-premixed flames

The velocity field and the location of the CH layer are measured simultaneously in diluted ethylene flames by applying particle image velocimetry (PIV) and planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of CH radicals. CH layer measurements are used to locate the position of the flame front, and accompanying velocity fields provide the instantaneous velocity, strain, and residence time information simultaneously. The location of the CH layer is found to correspond well with the location of the stoichiometric velocity contour and also with high strain rate zones: however, significantly higher values of instantaneous velocity and strain rates, compared to the mean value, are frequently observed. The residence time on the flame surface is estimated by dividing the thickness of the CH layer by the mean value of radial velocity on the CH layer. The flame sheet residence time estimated by this method remains nearly constant with axial distance downstream. The mean value of the maximum principal strain rate on the CH layer is observed to decrease along the axial direction while the change in the value is relatively small except for the region near the nozzle exit. The mean value of the strain rate is found to show a good correlation to a S≈(x/d) −0.7 relation for a wide range of Reynolds number.
Development of a Multi-Body Vessel Dynamics Simulation Tool

Multi-body dynamics is important in many fields of engineering. For the at-sea transfer of cargo between ships multi-body dynamics is particularly important. There are several methods of transferring solid cargo between vessels and these include by crane or by ramp. Each method is extremely sensitive to the relative motions between the various vessels. An accurate modeling of the vessels’ motions is critical in determining limiting sea state conditions and in suggesting how to improve the given system. There are various levels of approximation which are commonly employed to model vessel hydrodynamics and we hope to eventually determine what level of approximation is appropriate for a given situation. In this paper, we will compare the effects of considering as well as ignoring the multi-body hydrodynamic interactions using a constant coefficients approximation to the time domain radiated wave force.© 2009 ASME
PREVENTING SCHOOL VANDALISM AND IMPROVING DISCIPLINE: A THREE‐YEAR STUDY

Vandalism is a major problem facing educators and taxpayers alike. The present investigation analyzed how vandalism costs and student disruption were related to the implementation of a training and consultation package designed to increase the reinforcing ambience of the school. A positive environment, it was posited, would displace previous events that may have set the occasion for vandalism, with cues to promote productive school performance. Eighteen elementary and junior high schools were involved over a 3-year period. Using a delayed treatment control design, treatment was delivered following either 4 or 13 months of baseline. During treatment, teams of school personnel attended training workshops in behavioral strategies for reducing vandalism and disruption by students in school. Each team also met regularly on its campus to plan and implement programs on a schoolwide basis. To demonstrate that reinforcing procedures were actually implemented and accompanied by change in student performance, these variables were periodically probed throughout the study. Project staff also provided consultation. Vandalism costs decreased significantly (p less than .05) more in treatment than control schools, with an average reduction of 78.5% for all project schools. Rates of praise delivered by project teachers and other randomly selected teachers in the school increased significantly (p less than .05), and rates of off-task behavior by students decreased significantly (p less than .05) following treatment. The staff development model used in this study appeared to be both feasible and economical.