cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SIMS: a hybrid method for rapid conformational analysis.

Proteins are at the root of many biological functions, often performing complex tasks as the result of large changes in their structure. Describing the exact details of these conformational changes, however, remains a central challenge for computational biology due the enormous computational requirements of the problem. This has engendered the development of a rich variety of useful methods designed to answer specific questions at different levels of spatial, temporal, and energetic resolution. These methods fall largely into two classes: physically accurate, but computationally demanding methods and fast, approximate methods. We introduce here a new hybrid modeling tool, the Structured Intuitive Move Selector (sims), designed to bridge the divide between these two classes, while allowing the benefits of both to be seamlessly integrated into a single framework. This is achieved by applying a modern motion planning algorithm, borrowed from the field of robotics, in tandem with a well-established protein modeling library. sims can combine precise energy calculations with approximate or specialized conformational sampling routines to produce rapid, yet accurate, analysis of the large-scale conformational variability of protein systems. Several key advancements are shown, including the abstract use of generically defined moves (conformational sampling methods) and an expansive probabilistic conformational exploration. We present three example problems that sims is applied to and demonstrate a rapid solution for each. These include the automatic determination of “active” residues for the hinge-based system Cyanovirin-N, exploring conformational changes involving long-range coordinated motion between non-sequential residues in Ribose-Binding Protein, and the rapid discovery of a transient conformational state of Maltose-Binding Protein, previously only determined by Molecular Dynamics. For all cases we provide energetic validations using well-established energy fields, demonstrating this framework as a fast and accurate tool for the analysis of a wide range of protein flexibility problems.
A method of homogenization of elastic media

A perturbation technique is proposed which provides a simple means of estimating the effective behavior and fluctuation fields of a heterogeneous elastic medium. The perturbation analysis is based on an integral equation which characterizes the Fourier transform of the fluctuation stress potential. The average stress tensor drives the microstructural response and is assumed given. In contrast to other perturbation methods, the first-order approximation provides a nontrivial correction to the Voigt average moduli and information concerning the strain fluctuations. The first-order term in the expansion follows from straightforward computations and incorporates the statistical information provided by two-point spatial correlations of the elastic properties. Closed form expressions are obtained for the effective moduli of a two-phase continuum with randomly distributed inclusions and the results compared against the predictions of other methods.
Pain management perceptions among prescription opioid dependent individuals.

Background Nearly two-thirds of prescription opioid dependent individuals report chronic pain conditions as both an initial and current motivation for prescription opioid use. However, to date, limited information exists regarding perceptions of the adequacy of pain management and pain management behaviors among prescription opioid dependent individuals with a history of treatment for chronic pain.
Possibility of Faster-Than-Light Particles

We consider the possibility of describing, within the special theory of relativity, particles with spacelike four-momentum, which therefore have velocities greater than that of light in vacuum. The usual objections to such particles are discussed, and they are found to be unconvincing within the framework of relativistic quantum theory. A quantum field theory of noninteracting, spinless, faster-than-light particles is described. The field theory is Lorentz-invariant, but must be quantized with Fermi statistics. The associated particle theory has the property that the particle number is not Lorentz-invariant, and the no-particle state is not Lorentz-invariant either. Nevertheless, the principle of relativity is satisfied. The Lorentz invariance implies a relation between emission and absorption processes, in contradiction to the usual case. Some comments are made about the problem of introducing interactions into the field theory. The limiting velocity is $c$, but a limit has two sides.
Magnetic studies on compounds RCuSi, R6Cu8Si8, and RCu2Si2 (R = Pr, Gd, Tb)

Magnetic behavior of compounds RCuSi, R6Cu8Si8, and RCu2Si2 with R = Pr, Gd, and Tb has been investigated from 4.2 to about 150 K in fields up to 50 kOe. Compounds RCuSi order ferromagnetically. High fields needed for saturation in GdCuSi indicate the presence of anisotropic exchange interactions. All other compounds show weak antiferro-magnetic exchange interactions. TbCu2Si2 and probably Gd6Cu8Si8 and GdCu2Si2 are metamagnets. Pr6Cu8Si8 appears to become a Van Vleck paramagnet around the temperature of liquid He. In Feldern bis zu 50 kOe wird das magnetische Verhalten der Verbindungen RCuSi, R6Cu8Si8 und RCu2Si2 mit R = Pr, Gd und Tb von 4,2 bis etwa 150 K untersucht. RCuSi-Verbindungen ordnen sich ferromagnetisch. Die fur die Sattigung in GdCuSi benotigten hohen Felder weisen auf anisotrope Austauschwechselwirkungen hin. Alle anderen Verbindungen zeigen schwache antiferromagnetische Austauschwechselwirkung. TbCu2Si2 und wahrscheinlich auch Gd6Cu8Si8 und GdCu2Si2 sind Metamagnete. Pr6Cu8Si8 scheint bei etwa der Temperatur des flussigen Helium ein Van Vleck-Paramagnet zu werden.
Sexual Development of Coturnix as Affected by Changes in Photoperiods

Abstract THE suitability of Japanese quail (Coturnix c. japonica) for laboratory studies in physiology has recently been discussed by us (Wilson et al., 1959). In that paper, brief mention was made of the suitability of the bird for studies on photoperiodic responses. The purpose of this paper is to present our findings on the effect of various photoperiods on the sexual development and reproductive performance of Coturnix. MATERIALS AND METHODS Quail eggs were hatched in a commercial type incubator. During their first two weeks of artificial brooding, the young quail were exposed continuously to artificial illumination from a 100-watt bulb which was suspended near the 5-decked battery brooder. The light intensity ranged from 1 to 5 footcandles, the lowest deck having the lowest intensity. They were fed U.C. poult crumbled starter mash until five weeks of age and then changed to turkey breeder mash or crumbles. The birds were from three …
Optical coherence Doppler tomography for quantitative cerebral blood flow imaging

Optical coherence Doppler tomography (ODT) is a promising neurotechnique that permits 3D imaging of the cerebral blood flow (CBF) network; however, quantitative CBF velocity (CBFv) imaging remains challenging. Here we present a simple phase summation method to enhance slow capillary flow detection sensitivity without sacrificing dynamic range for fast flow and vessel tracking to improve angle correction for absolute CBFv quantification. Flow phantom validation indicated that the CBFv quantification accuracy increased from 15% to 91% and the coefficient of variation (CV) decreased 9.3-fold; in vivo mouse brain validation showed that CV decreased 4.4-/10.8- fold for venular/arteriolar flows. ODT was able to identify cocaine-elicited microischemia and quantify CBFv disruption in branch vessels and capillaries that otherwise would have not been possible.
13-Hydroxyoctadeca-9,11-dienoic acid (13-HODE) inhibits thromboxane A2 synthesis, and stimulates 12-HETE production in human platelets.

The effect of 13-hydroxyoctadeca-9,11-dienoic acid (13-HODE), a major lipoxygenase product of endothelial cell linoleic acid metabolism on thrombin-induced platelet thromboxane B2 (TxB2), and 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE) production was evaluated. 13-HODE inhibited thrombin-induced TxB2 production in human platelets in a concentration-dependent manner. At concentrations of 10 and 30 uM, 13-HODE inhibited TxB2 production by 28 ± 8% (1SE, n =5; P<0.05) and 48 ± 6% (P <0.01) respectively. 13-HODE (30 uM) also inhibited the production of platelet hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid (38 ± 5%, P <0.01). A concomitant stimulation of 12-HETE production by 13-HODE was observed (25 ± 5% and 49 ± 22% over control values at 10 and 30 uM respectively, P <0.01). Our results demonstrate a differential effect of 13-HODE on thrombin stimulated platelet cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase metabolites.
The relationship between Schoen’s V and a loglinear measure

This paper discusses the mathematical relationship between Schoen’s ∇ and an index derived from log-linear models for making compositionally controlled comparisons of the occurrence of an event in a population. The merits of each and the contributions of the log-linear formulation are discussed.
THE SURVIVAL ZONE FOR A BOND WITH BOTH CALL AND PUT OPTIONS EMBEDDED

We present a numerical method to price bonds that have multiple embedded options with an emphasis on the case with both long call and short put options. The valuation framework is a one-factor model for the term structure of interest rates, where the instantaneous interest rate is allowed to follow a fairly general stochastic process. The equilibrium interest rates that define the free boundaries for the embedded call and put options are given. We demonstrate the survival zone within which a bond with both long call and short put options remains afloat. We show that even moderate levels of transaction costs can have a significant effect on exercise of options.
Datura fastuosa: Its use in tsonga girls’ initiation

This paper is a description and sociocultural analysis ofDatura fastuosa ingestion in the girls’ puberty school of the Tsonga (Shangana-Tsonga) of Mozambique and the northern Transvaal. The rite involves music/color synesthesia and the hearing of a supernatural voice and is associated by the Tsonga with fertility. The origin and function of the rite is discussed and, in connection with certain of its aspects, cross-cultural comparisons are made.
The evolution of the reproductive system of Urodasys (Gastrotricha: Macrodasyida)

Macrodasyidan gastrotrichs are hermaphrodites with complex reproductive organs that function in sperm transfer and receipt, but homology among the organs of members of different clades remains undetermined, as does a broader understanding of evolutionary trends in the reproductive biology of macrodasyidans. In this study, we investigate the evolution of reproduction in Urodasys, a clade of 15 macrodasyidan species that shows variability in reproductive mode (hermaphroditic and parthenogenetic) and sexual anatomy. We use partial 18S rDNA sequence data from 30 specimens representing five described species, sequence data from one undescribed species in GenBank, and sequence data from a potentially new species found at Capron Shoal, Florida, to gain insight into the phylogeny of the clade and clarify evolutionary trends in reproductive modality. Based on a total of 33 specimens of seven potential species, we found that members of Urodasys can be separated into three clades reflective of different reproductive modalities: Clade I, species with paired male and female gonads but without accessory sexual organs; Clade II, species with a single left testis, paired ova, and accessory organs including a sclerotic stylet; and Clade III, parthenogenetic species without testes or accessory organs. In addition, we find that the potentially new species from Florida can form spermatophores, a condition shared with another species in Clade I. Herein, we describe this novel spermatophore-bearing species and discuss the significance of spermatophore formation in the genus.
Anterograde axonal transport of [125I]wheat germ agglutinin by motor neurons innervating the rat lateral rectus muscle.

Abstract Despite widespread evidence of the affinity of wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) for sensory, preganglionic autonomic and other CNS neuron cell bodies, evidence of the uptake and anterograde transport of WGA by motor neurons innervating skeletal muscle is lacking. It was hypothesized that these cells might lack plasma membrane moieties with N-acetylglucosamine for selective uptake and transport of WGA. To test this, rats were anesthetized and injected intracisternally with affinity-purified [125I]WGA in order to label abducens motor neurons. Based on results of light and electron microscopic autoradiography, it can be concluded that abducens motoneurons, and presumably other motoneurons, are capable of uptake and anterograde axonal transport of [125I]WGA.
Insulin-like growth factor-1 coordinately induces the expression of fatty acid and cholesterol biosynthetic genes in murine C2C12 myoblasts

We present evidence that a major aspect of the mechanism of acute signal transduction regulation by insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in cultured murine myoblasts is associated with a broad perturbation of many components of cholesterol and fatty acid biosynthetic pathways. We have used microarray transcriptional analysis to examine the acute effects of IGF-1 on global patterns of gene expression in C2C12 myoblasts and have identified approximately 157 genes that are up-regulated and 75 genes down-regulated from 2- to 6-fold after treatment with IGF-1. Of the up-regulated genes, 19 genes are associated with cholesterol biosynthesis and 5 genes specify aspects of fatty acid biosynthesis. In addition 10 recognized transcription factors are significantly induced by IGF-1 at 1 hour. The SREBPs, important regulators of fatty acid and cholesterol biosynthesis, operate via a post-transcriptional route and no significant transcriptional induction was observed in the 4 hr of IGF-1 treatment. Since there are no prior reports of significant and coordinated perturbations of fatty acid and cholesterol biosynthetic pathways with IGF-1 in muscle cells, these findings provide a substantive expansion of our understanding of IGF-1 action and the signal transduction pathways mediated by it, its variants and insulin.
Lions and Warriors: Social factors underlying declining African lion populations and the effect of incentive-based management in Kenya

African lion (Panthera leo) populations are in decline throughout most of Africa, but the problem is particularly acute in southern Kenya, where Maasai people are spearing and poisoning lions at a rate that will ensure near term local extinction. Lion killing is shaped by Maasai perception of livestock depredation, socio-economic factors, and the complex relationship between Maasai and conservation. These all affect tolerance for lions and consequently Maasai behavior towards conservation initiatives and carnivores in general. We used an in-depth quantitative questionnaire and participatory rural appraisals (PRAs) to identify the social and ecological predictors of lion killing and to investigate the effect of a compensation scheme on individual tolerance. Individuals who lose a greater proportion of their livestock to predators relative to their overall livestock loss, those affiliated with an evangelical church, and those who mainly sell rather than accumulate livestock all reported a higher propensity to kill carnivores. The future of carnivore conservation in this region depends on a better understanding of the nuances of human–carnivore conflict and a concerted effort to address appropriate cultural and community-level institutions, chiefly by providing economic benefits to local people who engage in positive conservation activities.
Infrared spectroscopy of Wild 2 particle hypervelocity tracks in Stardust aerogel: Evidence for the presence of volatile organics in cometary dust

Infrared spectroscopy maps of some tracks made by cometary dust from 81P/Wild 2 impacting Stardust aerogel reveal an interesting distribution of organic material. Out of six examined tracks, three show presence of volatile organic components possibly injected into the aerogel during particle impacts. When particle tracks contained volatile organic material, they were found to be -CH2- rich, while the aerogel is dominated by the -CH3-rich contaminant. It is clear that the population of cometary particles impacting the Stardust aerogel collectors also includes grains that contained little or none of this organic component. This observation is consistent with the highly heterogeneous nature of collected grains, as seen by a multitude of other analytical techniques.
Unintentional transfer of vaccinia virus associated with smallpox vaccines: ACAM2000(®) compared with Dryvax(®).

Background: Routine vaccination against smallpox (variola) ceased in the US in 1976. However, in 2002 limited coverage for military personnel and some healthcare workers was reinstituted. In March 2008, ACAM2000® replaced Dryvax® as the vaccine used in the United States against smallpox. Unintentional transfer of vaccinia virus from a vaccination site by autoinoculation or contact transmission, can have significant public health implications. We summarize unintentional virus transfer AEs associated with ACAM2000® since March 2008 and compare with Dryvax®.Results: We identified 309 reports for ACAM2000® with skin or ocular involvement, of which 93 were autoinoculation cases and 20 were contact transmission cases. The rate for reported cases of autoinoculation was 20.6 per 100,000 vaccinations and for contact transmission was 4.4 per 100,000 vaccinations. Eighteen contact transmission cases could be attributed to contact during a sporting activity (45%) or intimate contact (45%). Of the 113 unintentional tr...
Prophylactic Antibiotics in Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery: Current Practices

A survey of 23 pediatric cardiovascular surgery programs demonstrated uniform use of prophylactic antibiotics for open-heart operations. Only 65% of the programs used prophylaxis for repair of patent ductus arteriosus. Cephalosporins were the most frequently used antibiotics, but aminoglycosides in combination with penicillins were used in approximately 25% of the operations. Antibiotics were most often started prior to operation (89.7%) and continued for less than five days. These data demonstrate that the use of prophylaxis in pediatric cardiovascular operations conforms to current guidelines.
Acute Hemodynamic Effects of Pulsed Delivery of Low Flow Nasal Nitric Oxide in Children with Pulmonary Hypertension † 118

Acute Hemodynamic Effects of Pulsed Delivery of Low Flow Nasal Nitric Oxide in Children with Pulmonary Hypertension † 118
Bacterial endocarditis due to salmonella typhimurium

Abstract The case of a forty-one-year old white woman with fatal Salmonella endocarditis is presented. The occurrence of Salmonella endocarditis is rare with only twenty-eight cases reported from 1936 through 1959. In the majority of cases there was some form of pre-existing valvular disease. The results of therapy remain unsatisfactory with only two known survivors. One of the difficulties of therapy is illustrated by the present case report. After therapy was instituted blood cultures were consistently negative. In vitro studies revealed the organism to be sensitive to several therapeutic agents. Despite this, Salmonella typhimurium was readily cultured from the left atrial thrombus at autopsy. Inability of the therapeutic agent to reach the organism appears to be the major difficulty.
118 A Nutritional Analysis of the Turf Algal Diet and Fecal Pellets of The Green Turtle, Chelonia Mydas L

In 1978, the green turtle, Chelonia mydas, was listed as threatened in the United States under the Endangered Species Act. Any knowledge gained from an understanding of the diet and how it affects this species' ability to survive is crucial. Turf algae, the primary component of the diet of Chelonia mydas, and turtle fecal pellets were collected from Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park on the island of Hawaii at monthly intervals. The turf algae and fecal pellets were subjected to nutritional analyses for protein, carbohydrate, lipid, ash, and caloric content. The fecal pellets were higher in protein content than the turf algae, which may be related to fermentation carried out by bacteria in the turtle hindgut that increases the amount of protein available for absorption. From the nutritional data, assimilation efficiencies were calculated for the green turtle.
Integrating Gene Transcription-Based Biomarkers to Understand Desert Tortoise and Ecosystem Health

Tortoises are susceptible to a wide variety of environmental stressors, and the influence of human disturbances on health and survival of tortoises is difficult to detect. As an addition to current diagnostic methods for desert tortoises, we have developed the first leukocyte gene transcription biomarker panel for the desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii), enhancing the ability to identify specific environmental conditions potentially linked to declining animal health. Blood leukocyte transcript profiles have the potential to identify physiologically stressed animals in lieu of clinical signs. For desert tortoises, the gene transcript profile included a combination of immune or detoxification response genes with the potential to be modified by biological or physical injury and consequently provide information on the type and magnitude of stressors present in the animal's habitat. Blood from 64 wild adult tortoises at three sites in Clark County, NV, and San Bernardino, CA, and from 19 captive tortoises in Clark County, NV, was collected and evaluated for genes indicative of physiological status. Statistical analysis using a priori groupings indicated significant differences among groups for several genes, while multidimensional scaling and cluster analyses of transcription C T values indicated strong differentiation of a large cluster and multiple outlying individual tortoises or small clusters in multidimensional space. These analyses highlight the effectiveness of the gene panel at detecting environmental perturbations as well as providing guidance in determining the health of the desert tortoise.
High-pressure ionization chambers for calorimetry in high-energy physics

Abstract The size and speed of signals produced by alpha particles in pure argon gas at pressures up to 160 atm have been studied. At 100 atm the charge collection efficiency is 80% with much of the loss attributable to recombination. With the addition of 1% methane and an electric field of 1 kV/mm, the electron collection time is 60 ns/mm. The signal size and speed at 100 atm is not affected by O 2 for concentrations of up to 80 ppm.
Substrate Effects on VOC Emissions from a Latex Paint

Abstract The effects of two substrates - a stainless steel plate and a gypsum board - on the volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from a latex paint were evaluated by environmental chamber tests. It was found that the amount of VOCs emitted from the painted stainless steel was 2 to 10 times more than that from the painted gypsum board during the 2-week test period. The dominant chemical species emitted were also different between the two substrates. Data analysis indicated that most VOC emissions from the painted stainless steel occurred in the first 100 h via a fast, evaporation-like process. On the other hand, the majority of the gypsum board VOCs were emitted in a later stage via a slow, diffusion-controlled process. There were measurable emissions of VOCs 11 months after paint application on the gypsum board. It is suggested that, instead of the routinely used substrates such as stainless steel plates, real substrates such as wood or gypsum board should be used for the evaluation of emissions in indoor environments.
Early relapses do not impact survival after autologous stem cell transplantation in African Americans with multiple myeloma [2]

Early relapses do not impact survival after autologous stem cell transplantation in African Americans with multiple myeloma
Impact of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt on orthotopic liver transplantation.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is being increasingly utilized prior to liver transplantation for portal hypertensive bleeding refractory to sclerotherapy or as initial management of variceal bleeding. The impact of TIPS on subsequent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of TIPS on OLT in terms of operative transfusion requirements, operative time, length of hospital stay, and graft and patient survival. The results in 17 patients undergoing TIPS for control of initial or recurrent variceal bleeding prior to OLT between June 1991 and December 1992 were compared to two other groups undergoing transplantation: 32 control patients with a history of variceal bleeding not treated by TIPS and 11 patients with a previous surgical portosystemic shunt. Compared with control and surgical shunt patients, patients who underwent TIPS had less transfusion requirement for packed red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma during OLT. The operative time and hospital stay of the TIPS patients were slightly, but not significantly, less. In contrast to patients having TIPS, the patients with a history of a previous surgical shunt had an increased requirement for packed red blood cells, longer operative time, and longer stay in the intensive care unit and hospital. Two patients had recurrent variceal bleeding after TIPS; one patient was found to have an occluded stent, and the other patient (with a patent stent) responded to sclerotherapy. Of the 14 patients with ascites, 8 patients improved and 6 patients had complete resolution after TIPS. There were no major complications related to TIPS, although 3 patients had new or recurrent hepatic encephalopathy that was easily manageable. Thus the preoperative performance of TIPS is associated with less operative transfusion requirement during OLT, presumably secondary to a reduction in portal hypertension. TIPS is preferred to surgical shunt for pretransplant refractory variceal bleeding, as the latter is associated not only with significant morbidity and mortality but also increased transfusion requirements and prolonged operative time and hospital stay.
Effect of Sulfate on the Release Rate of Al3+ from Gibbsite in Low-Temperature Acidic Waters

Solubility experiments were performed at 5 °C by reacting 1 g of powdered gibbsite with 45 g of aqueous H2SO4−NaCl and HCl−NaCl (0.01 m H+) solutions at 0.1 m ionic strength. The kinetics of dissolution were monitored under extremely undersaturated conditions and appeared to favor a zero-order rate-determining process. The dissolution rate of gibbsite in the sulfate solution was approximately 10 times faster than in the HCl solution, which is consistent with trends reported in the literature for studies performed at higher temperatures. The enhanced dissolution kinetics of gibbsite (and by analogy, other aluminum-containing minerals) in the presence of sulfate may contribute to the elevated Al concentrations observed in natural low-temperature waters associated with acid rain and acid mine drainage.
Optimism and Perceived Control of Life Events as Related to Personality

Earlier research has shown people to have an optimistic bias—to believe that positive events were more likely and negative events less likely to occur to themselves as compared with persons like themselves. We had Ss rate the probability of positive and negative events occurring to themselves as compared with others, rate the degree to which they believed event occurrence to be under personal control, and complete the revised Eysenck Personality Questionnaire. Our Ss were slightly optimistic concerning positive events, substantially more optimistic about negative events, and felt that they were in moderate to strong control of event occurrence. Persons who believed that positive events were more likely to occur and negative events less likely to occur to themselves also believed that they had more control over the occurrence of events. Except for an association of optimism concerning positive events and extraversion, the only significant associations of optimism and of control were with neuroticism, with persons higher in neuroticism being less optimistic about positive events and (to a greater degree) more pessimistic about negative events, and believing that they had less control over positive and (to a greater degree) negative events.
A protein-folding reaction under kinetic control

Synthesis of alpha-lytic protease is as a precursor containing a 166 amino-acid pro region transiently required for the correct folding of the protease domain. By omitting the pro region in an in vitro refolding reaction we trapped an inactive, but folding competent state (I) having an expanded radius yet native-like secondary structure. The I state is stable for weeks at physiological pH in the absence of denaturant, but rapidly folds to the active, native state on addition of the pro region as a separate polypeptide chain. The mechanism of action of the pro region is distinct from that of the chaperonins: rather than reducing the rate of off-pathway reactions, the pro region accelerates the rate-limiting step on the folding pathway by more than 10(7). Because both the I and native states are stable under identical conditions with no detectable interconversion, the folding of alpha-lytic protease must be under kinetic and not thermodynamic control.
Rousseau's Discarded Children: The Panoply of Excuses and the Question of Hypocrisy

SummaryAlthough Rousseau's treatment of his children has provoked much controversy, sustained and scholarly discussions are rare. This study is the first to present the evidence comprehensively and systematically. It engages each of Rousseau's contentions about his children in order to carefully discern the significance of this episode for his life and work. It offers an analytical table of each rationale—nineteen different ones, of five major types. It discusses documents of 1751 and 1778 which strongly defend the actions, the ambiguous arguments in the Second Part of the Confessions (1769–1770), the oscillations in the period surrounding the Confessions (1764–1770), and finally the development of unqualified remorse in the middle period of Emile (1757–1762). It concludes by advancing a middle position between those who ultimately see his behaviour and associated excuses as demonstrating his unchecked individualism and subjectivism, and those who ultimately absolve this episode in order to find him a mor...
Confinement of Microplasmas in Silicon Channels With Widths as Small as

Rare gas microplasmas confined in one dimension to ; 400 torr is introduced to the channel. The requirement for Penning gas mixtures in the narrowest channel appears to be associated with an accelerated electron loss rate.
A role for PS integrins in morphological growth and synaptic function at the postembryonic neuromuscular junction of Drosophila.

A family of three position-specific (PS) integrins are expressed at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction (NMJ): a beta subunit (βPS), expressed in both presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes, and two alpha subunits (αPS1, αPS2), expressed at least in the postsynaptic membrane. PS integrins appear at postembryonic NMJs coincident with the onset of rapid morphological growth and terminal type-specific differentiation, and are restricted to type I synaptic boutons, which mediate fast, excitatory glutamatergic transmission. We show that two distinctive hypomorphic mutant alleles of the β subunit gene myospheroid (mys b9 and mys ts1 ), differentially affect βPS protein expression at the synapse to produce distinctive alterations in NMJ branching, bouton formation, synaptic architecture and the specificity of synapse formation on target cells. The mys b9 mutation alters βPS localization to cause a striking reduction in NMJ branching, bouton size/number and the formation of aberrant ‘mini-boutons’, which may represent a developmentally arrested state. The mys ts1 mutation strongly reduces βPS expression to cause the opposite phenotype of excessive synaptic sprouting and morphological growth. NMJ function in these mutant conditions is altered in line with the severity of the morphological aberrations. Consistent with these mutant phenotypes, transgenic overexpression of the βPS protein with a heat-shock construct or tissue-specific GAL4 drivers causes a reduction in synaptic branching and bouton number. We conclude that βPS integrin at the postembryonic NMJ is a critical determinant of morphological growth and synaptic specificity. These data provide the first genetic evidence for a functional role of integrins at the postembryonic synapse. SUMMARY
Pharmacy management strategies for improving drug adherence.

BACKGROUND: Significant gaps in quality pervade U.S. health care, leading to suboptimal care and rising costs. One key factor driving the apparent quality gaps and rising costs in the current health care system is the issue of nonadherence to prescription medications. OBJECTIVE: To describe quality gaps in managed care that are driven by nonadherence to prescription medications and characterize the components of successful pharmacy management strategies for overcoming nonadherence. SUMMARY: Collaborative networks and medication therapy management (MTM) programs are 2 pharmacy management initiatives that are useful in reducing medication nonadherence among plan members. The Pharmacy Quality Alliance has laid the foundation for developing useful pharmacy quality metrics, aggregating data, and reporting to both consumers and pharmacies. At the same time, the National Committee for Quality Assurance has developed MTM measures to monitor pharmacy quality. Both organizations have used Medicare Part D as an impe...
Comparison between the influence of the intravenous and intracerebroventricular injection of a nitric oxide donor on adrenocorticotropic hormone release and hypothalamic neuronal activity.

We investigated the ability of the nitric oxide (NO) donor 3-morpholino-sydnonimine (SIN-1) to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and up-regulate hypothalamic neurones following its intravenous (i.v.) injection. i.v. SIN-1 (0.2-1.8 mg/kg) produced dose-related increases in plasma ACTH levels which were blocked by prior neutralization of endogenous corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) but not by vasopressin antibodies. In contrast, the intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of 50-microg SIN-1 released significantly larger amounts of ACTH, a response blunted by either CRF or vasopressin antibodies. While i.c.v. SIN-1 markedly up-regulated transcripts of the immediate early gene NGFI-B in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus, no such response was observed following the i.v. injection of up to 2.0 mg/kg SIN-1. Finally, we found no evidence that the influence of the peripheral administration of SIN-1 on ACTH secretion is mediated by altered pituitary responsiveness to CRF or vasopressin. The fact that NO has a profound hypotensive influence in the periphery suggests that it may have released ACTH through this mechanism, although the absence of PVN neuronal response in regions that are activated by decreased blood pressure casts some doubt on this hypothesis. As the systemic injection of arginine derivatives that block NOS activity potently augment the ACTH response to circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines or vasopressin, the present findings indicate that the mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon are distinct from those responsible for ACTH released by i.v. SIN-1.
Measuring Residual Stress Effects of Acceptor Doping In Tunable Microwave Dielectric Thin Films

There has been a recent shift towards a tunable phase shifter for microwave antenna design. Barium strontium titanate [BaxSr(1-x)TiO3] thin films are the principal materials of interest in these applications, primarily because of their low loss, high dielectric constant and large tunability. Both magnesium doped and undoped films were made, and they were deposited on MgO or Pt-Si substrates using metal organic solution deposition and pulsed laser deposition. Residual stress within these materials is known to have a drastic effect on the material, electrical, and dielectric properties. This becomes of particular importance in thin film materials, where the residual stress can be several orders of magnitude higher than in bulk materials. The residual stress in the films was measured in three ways. A Tencor stress analysis system was employed to measure the change in the substrate curvature due to the film stress, and a nano-indentation method was used to calculate the residual stress in a system by measuring the maximum penetration, the force at maximum penetration, and the slope of the initial unloading curve. These methods were validated using XRD lattice calculations. Stresses as high as 2 GPa were observed under certain conditions. The results also show that the surface region of the films is not stress free at these thicknesses (∼200 nm) as was mathematically suggested.
After Love: Attachment Styles and Grief Themes

This study examined the association of attachment organization and recalled grief responses following the dissolution of an important romantic relationship. College students (N = 118) completed questions about demographics, attachment organization, and grief. Factor analysis resulted in 4 interpretable grief themes. Multiple regression analyses indicated that the adult attachment style predicted 3 grief-related cognitive themes: Preoccupied attachment predicted self-reproach, fearful attachment predicted partner blame, and both fearful and secure attachment predicted a friendly resolution. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Co-Construction as a Facilitative Factor in Supporting the Personal Narratives of Children Who Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Adult co-construction with children who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) has been found to facilitate child communicative competence in general, but few studies have examined adult co-construction during the telling of personal narratives. This study explored the use of adult co-constructive strategies during personal storytelling with a child who used AAC. Case study discourse analysis methodology was utilized to analyze the types of co-construction strategies employed and the effectiveness of these co-construction strategies during an intervention session with a speech-language pathologist and a child who used AAC. The study concluded that use of child-centered co-construction strategies, including elicitation, question asking, prompts, positive praise, repetitions, and modeling of vocabulary and grammar, might be a facilitative factor in supporting the personal narratives of children who use AAC. Clinical implications for using child-centered co-construction during dyadic exchanges ...
Controlled Scattering of Light Waves: Optimal Design of Diffractive Optics

Diffractive optics is a vigorously growing technology in which optical components are micromachined with tiny features. Exploiting diffraction effects, devices can be fabricated which perform functions unattainable with conventional optics. These devices have great advantages in terms of size and weight, and can be mass produced at low cost [14]. The current applications are far-reaching, including head- mounted displays, projection displays, flat panel displays, sensors, image acquisition systems, anti-glare surfaces, and optical communications components.
The Applications of Human Factors Associated with Hearing Impairments: Issues and Recent Technological Developments in Telecommunications

This paper discusses the issues and recent technological developments in the telecommunications industry toward the applications of human factors associated with hearing impairments. The definition, severity characteristics, and causes of hearing impairment are introduced. The communication issues, communication modalities, psychosocial effects, state of the art of telecommunications technologies for hearing impairments, and legal issues of telecommunications technologies will be discussed in detail. The latest developments in standardization of telecommunication technologies to cope with hearing impairments and major outstanding issues will be discussed and future research directions will be suggested.
International normalized ratio and prothrombin time values before the removal of a lumbar plexus catheter in patients receiving warfarin after total hip replacement

Abstract Background There is a paucity of data regarding the coagulation status when discontinuing perineural catheters in patients receiving anticoagulant after operation. This retrospective study was designed to establish international normalized ratio (INR) and prothrombin time (PT) at the time of removal of lumbar plexus perineural catheters in patients receiving warfarin after total hip replacement. Methods Patients who received a continuous lumbar plexus nerve block for postoperative analgesia and received warfarin after total hip surgery between August 2002 and June 2007 were included in this retrospective study. PT and INRs were recorded before surgery and every day after operation along with any post-surgical nerve injury and bleeding related to the removal of the perineural catheter. Results Six hundred and seventy patients met the inclusion criteria. Almost all lumbar plexus catheters (89%) were removed on postoperative day 2. At the time of the perineural catheter removal, 36.2% of patients had an INR >1.4 (range: 1.5–3.9). One case of local bleeding was recorded at the time of the catheter removal with an INR of 3.0. This was managed with a direct pressure at the site. Conclusions Although in this retrospective analysis, we demonstrated that lumbar plexus catheters were removed with an INR ≥1.5, additional data are required to confirm the safety of such an approach.
Update on pharmacologic management of OCD: agents and augmentation.

A preponderance of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) experience little or no improvement in their symptoms when treated with serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs). It is hypothesized that SRI-refractory patients may have altered serotonin neurotransmission different from patients responsive to SRIs, or that they may have abnormalities in their dopamine function. When drugs affecting serotonin function (e.g., tryptophan, fenfluramine, lithium, buspirone) are added to SRI therapy in SRI-refractory patients, results are mixed and not consistently encouraging. However, when drugs affecting dopamine function (e.g., pimozide, haloperidol, risperidone) are added to SRI therapy in SRI-refractory OCD patients, individuals with either a personal history or family history of tics experience a reduction in their symptoms.
Corporate personhood and the corporate body: : the case of former energy giant Enron on trial for fraud

This paper queries the concept of corporate personhood by investigating how metaphors of the body were deployed in court testimony during Enron's corporate fraud trial in 2006. Two distinct metaphors are discussed as they relate to representations of the corporation: the portrayal of Enron as an organic body in ill health and death, and the metonymic positioning of the former CEOs as Enron. Drawing from critical economic geographies and legal literatures on the attribution of corporate personhood, I ask, what are the implications of these metaphorical associations for how we understand who has access to the legal rights of corporations? In answering this, I suggest that for the defense, body metaphors contributed to a naturalization of corporate personhood, upholding its legal protections and claiming those protections for the former CEOs. The prosecution rejected this singular metaphorical corporate body, opting for a corporation that was diffuse and occupied by many. From this, I argue that these diverging representations denaturalize corporate personhood, calling into question who has access to its protections in a criminal court. Furthermore, such diverging metaphorical uses of the corporation as a body reaffirm the contested and constructed nature of legal personhood.
Structured Heterogeneity in a Marine Terrace Chronosequence: Upland Mottling

Soil mottles generally are interpreted as a product of reducing conditions during periods of water saturation. The upland soils of the Santa Cruz, CA, marine terrace chronosequence display an evolving sequence of reticulate mottling from the youngest soil (65 ka) without mottles to the oldest soil (225 ka) with well-developed mottles. The mottles consist of an interconnected network of clay and C-enriched regions (gray, 2.5Y 6/1) bordered by leached parent material (white, 2.5Y 8/1) within a diminishing matrix of oxidized parent material (orange, 7.5YR 5/8). The mottles develop in soils that formed from relatively uniform nearshore sediments and occur below the depth of soil bioturbation. To explore how a presumably wetland feature occurs in an unsaturated upland soil, physical and chemical characteristics of mottle separates (orange, gray, and white) were compared through the deep time represented by the soil chronosequence. Mineralogical, isotopic, and surface-area differences among mottle separates indicate that rhizogenic centimeter-scale mass transfer acting across millennia is an integral part of weathering, pedogenesis, and C and nutrient transfer. Elemental analysis, electron microscopy, and Fe-isotope systematics indicate that mottle development is driven by deep roots together with their fungal and microbial symbionts. Taken together, these data suggest that deep soil horizons on old stable landforms can develop reticulate mottling as the long-term imprint of rhizospheric processes. The processes of rhizogenic mottle formation appear to regulate pedogenesis, nutrients, and C sequestration at depth in unsaturated zones.
Synonymy, Redescription, and Biology of Neoparacletus corrugatans (Homoptera: Aphididae)

Neoparacletus corrugatans (Sirrine) has Crataegus spp. as primary hosts and Juncus spp. as secondary hosts. It may survive on the secondary host without returning to the primary host. Neoparacletus caricis Strom is shown ABSTRACT to be a junior synonym of corrugatans (NEW SYNONYM). Descriptions are given of the fundatrix, fundatrispuria, 1st instar from fundatrispuria, apterous vivipara, and sexupara.
The valence quadrupole moment

The bond-valence model has recently been expanded to include a directional component, the vectorial bond-valence sum, which is useful for characterizing non-centrosymmetric distortions involving lone-pair and second-order Jahn-Teller effects. Here we show that the bond-valence sum and vectorial bond-valence sum are equivalent to monopole and dipole terms in a multipole expansion of the bond valence incident to an atom. We then extend the multipole expansion to include a quadrupole term, which describes the ellipsoidal deviation from spherical symmetry of the bonding environment, and is useful for characterizing centrosymmetric distortions, such as those caused by first-order Jahn-Teller effects. These distortions follow characteristic patterns in valence space, which depend upon factors that include the d -orbital configuration and size of the transition metal involved. This extended approach, called the Valence Multipole Model, should prove useful for modeling molecular and crystal structures, including those associated with spin transitions.