cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mood regulation and relationship quality predict change in homesickness during college.

Recent theorizing has implicated affect regulation as central to the experience of homesickness. Conceptualized as grief due to losing social connections with close others when relocating, homesickness is associated with poor emotional and social adjustment. The present study examined how mood regulation and relationship quality - at home and in college - predict homesickness and negative affect among college students (N = 168). We assessed 16 mood regulation strategies as well as relationship quality each week over the first college term. As predicted, time-lagged multilevel analyses demonstrate that avoidance-oriented strategies were helpful in the short term (the following week), but chronic avoidance (across the college term) predicted higher levels of homesickness. Approach-oriented regulatory strategies did not predict homesickness, however. Relationship quality demonstrated differential main effects at the between-person level but did not predict fluctuations in homesickness from week to week. Across the college term, closer ties at home predicted greater homesickness, whereas closer ties in college predicted lower homesickness. Notably, there were distinct effects of mood regulation for homesickness compared to negative affect. The present study is among the first to examine effects of mood regulation on homesickness longitudinally, suggesting it is important to consider the type of regulation strategies being used as well as the time scale.
Level and Geographical Distribution of Resistance to Meloidogyne arenaria in the U.S. Peanut Germplasm Collection

The peanut root-knot nematode [Meloidogyne arenaria (Neal) Chitwood race 1] causes significant economic losses in many peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production areas of the world. The objectives of this study were (i) to examine the peanut core collection to identify sources of resistance, (ii) to estimate the level of resistance that occurs in the U.S. germplasm collection, and (iii) to examine the geographical distribution for resistance in peanut germplasm. Seven hundred forty-one accessions from the core collection were tested in greenhouse trials. The egg-mass rating for cultivar Florunner, the susceptible check, was 4.0 on a 1.0 to 5.0 scale with a nematode reproduction rate of 15 496 eggs per gram of fresh root weight. Fifty-six accessions exhibited an egg-mass rating of ≤2.5. Thirty-six core accessions showed a reduction in root galling, egg-mass rating, egg count per root system, and egg count per gram of root in comparison to Florunner. Twenty-one accessions showed a 70% reduction in egg count per root system and per gram of root, and two accessions showed a 90% reduction of these variables in comparison with Florunner. The 56 resistant indicators from screening the core collection identified 39 clusters in the entire germplasm collection that should be examined more thoroughly. China and Japan appear to be valuable geographical sources for resistance to this nematode.
The American System: A Schumpeterian History of Standardization

While governments as far back as the ancient Egyptians have implemented industry standards, their economic importance grew with the spread of industrialization. Throughout the 1800s, the rise of nationalism, a greater emphasis on accuracy and precision science, and the steady march of industrialization further underlined the importance of standards for establishing competitive advantages in the industrial age. In the Information Age, The U.S. government has played specific roles in the system of standardization: investment and leadership in basics standards to relieve some financial burden from firms; specific research and development funding for information technology; and policies that support standards built through industry consensus. While a few exceptions exist where the U.S. government has played a direct role in standards setting, policymakers have preferred to rely on standards set by private firms and collaboration. This market-oriented approach to industrial standards greatly increases the chances of such standards being widely adopted and implemented.
Increased Q-Factor increases frontal-plane knee joint loading in stationary cycling.

Abstract Background Q-Factor (QF), or the inter-pedal width, in cycling is similar to step-width in gait. Although increased step-width has been shown to reduce peak knee abduction moment (KAbM), no studies have examined the biomechanical effects of increased QF in cycling at different workrates in healthy participants. Methods A total of 16 healthy participants (8 males, 8 females, age: 22.4 ± 2.6 years, body mass index: 22.78 ± 1.43 kg/m2, mean ± SD) participated. A motion capture system and customized instrumented pedals were used to collect 3-dimensional kinematic (240 Hz) and pedal reaction force (PRF) (1200 Hz) data in 12 testing conditions: 4 QF conditions—Q1 (15.0 cm), Q2 (19.2 cm), Q3 (23.4 cm), and Q4 (27.6 cm)—under 3 workrate conditions—80 watts (W), 120 W, and 160 W. A 3 × 4 (QF × workrate) repeated measures of analysis of variance were performed to analyze differences among conditions (p Results Increased QF increased peak KAbM by 47%, 56%, and 56% from Q1 to Q4 at each respective workrate. Mediolateral PRF increased from Q1 to Q4 at each respective workrate. Frontal-plane knee angle and range of motion decreased with increased QF. No changes were observed for peak vertical PRF, knee extension moment, sagittal plane peak knee joint angles, or range of motion. Conclusion Increased QF increased peak KAbM, suggesting increased medial compartment loading of the knee. QF modulation may influence frontal-plane joint loading when using stationary cycling for exercise or rehabilitation purposes.
Practice Makes Perfect: Introducing a Question Bank for ABSITE Preparation Improves Program Performance.

Background The American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) is an important predictor of passing the Qualifying Examination and a determinant of fellowship competitiveness. Objection Study the impact of providing program-wide access to a commercially available question bank for ABSITE preparation. Study design The surgery residency program purchased access to the TrueLearn question bank in 2018 A paired sample t test analysis compared the 2018 ABSITE percentage and percentile scores, prior to practice question bank access to 2019 ABSITE percentile scores. A simple linear regression analysis was calculated to predict improvement in percentage scores from 2018 to 2019 based on total number of practice questions as well as number of correct practice questions completed. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results Among the residents utilizing practice questions with serial exam scores, the individual resident ABSITE percentage of correct questions showed a statistically significant improvement after introduction of the question bank from 2018 (mean = 68.7, standard deviation = 7.3) to 2019 (mean = 72.2, standard deviation = 7.2; t(35) = −4.529, p Conclusion Use of a commercial question bank improved overall ABSITE scores. More questions answered translated into improved performance. Percent correct on the practice questions also correlated strongly with performance. Programs seeking to improve scores may wish to provide access to a question bank.
Inpatient Management of Migraine

Migraine is a frequently disabling disorder which may require inpatient treatment. Admission criteria for migraine include intractable migraine, nausea and/or vomiting, severe disability, and dependence on opioids or barbiturates. The inpatient treatment of migraine is based on observational studies and expert opinion rather than placebo-controlled trials. Well-established inpatient treatments for migraine include dihydroergotamine, neuroleptics/antiemetics, lidocaine, intravenous aspirin, and non-pharmacologic treatment such as cognitive–behavioral therapy. Short-acting treatments possibly associated with medication overuse, such as triptans, opioids, or barbiturate-containing compounds, are generally avoided. While the majority of persons with migraine are admitted on an emergency basis for only a few days, outcome studies and infusion protocols during elective admissions at tertiary headache centers suggest a longer length of stay may be needed for persons with intractable migraine.
Clinical features and outcome in 25 dogs with respiratory‐associated pulmonary hypertension treated with sildenafil

Background Pulmonary hypertension (PH) can develop secondary to many common cardiopulmonary diseases, and the use of sildenafil has improved care of affected dogs. Objective To evaluate response to sildenafil in dogs with respiratory-associated PH. Animals Twenty-five dogs with PH. Methods Prospective clinical trial. Doppler echocardiography identified dogs with moderate to severe PH, and additional tests were performed to detect underlying diseases. A 17-point quality of life (QOL) questionnaire was completed, and sildenafil was prescribed, along with other medications deemed necessary for the management of clinically diagnosed respiratory diseases. After 30 days, dogs returned to the hospital for repeat echocardiogram and QOL survey. Results The median age was 12.4 years, and most dogs were small breed dogs (median weight, 6.5 kg). Syncope (64%), cough (56%), and respiratory difficulty (32%) were the most common presenting complaints. Respiratory diseases associated with PH included tracheobronchomalacia, pulmonary fibrosis, inflammatory airway disease, and brachycephalic syndrome, with multiple diseases in some dogs. Eight of 25 dogs (32%) died or were euthanized within 1 month. In the remaining dogs, tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient (83.0 ± 17.4 mm Hg before, 55.4 ± 17.4 mm Hg after) and QOL scores were significantly improved after 1 month of sildenafil. Fifty percent mortality was reached 6 months after study entry, with 4 dogs alive 5 years after diagnosis. Conclusions and clinical importance Sildenafil responsiveness is variable in dogs with respiratory-associated PH, but improved QOL was demonstrated in dogs surviving >1 month, and long-term survival was noted in some cases.
Enhance Faculty Experience and Skills Using Maple in the 21 st Century Classroom

What role does faculty confidence and skills play in the use of a Computer Algebra System (CAS) play in increasing student success in college calculus courses? Studies show that improving students’ spatial abilities in math is a key indicator to improving their success in calculus Sorby et al. (2013). This proposal discusses challenges faced while attempting to implement the use of Maple within the classroom in the Calculus sequences, Linear Algebra and Differential Equations at Johnston Community College as well as across North Carolina Community Colleges.
An update on the therapeutic potential of calpain inhibitors: a patent review

Calpain is a cytosolic proteinase that regulates of a wide range of physiological functions. The enzyme has been implicated in various pathological conditions including neurodegenerative disorders,...
High Incidence of Antibiotic Resistance in Kitfo, an Ethiopian Beef Tartar.

Kitfo is a version of beef tartar widely consumed in the Ethiopian community. It is made from raw minced beef and a blend of powdered spice and butter. Although previous studies have shown that kitfo contains several bacteria that are of public health concern, the status of their antibiotic resistance is not known. In this study, the antibiotic resistance of bacterial isolates from twenty-six retail kitfo samples obtained from the Metropolitan Washington area was analyzed. Characterization and antibiotic sensitivity of the isolates were determined by the VITEK 2 system, while Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was used to delineate the intraspecies variations. Fifty-nine percent of the isolates were resistant to two or more antibiotics. Acinetobacter calcoaceticus and Pseudomonas luteola were multidrug-resistant to the classes of beta-lactam, cephalosporins, and nitrofurantoin. The antibiotic susceptibility profile of the isolates were: cefazolin (59%), cefoxitin (50%), ampicillin (32%), and nitrofuran (18%). Most of the isolates (75%), were Enterobacteriaceae, while only 3.8% and 2.6% were Pseudomonadaceae and Moraxellaceae, respectively. Of the Enterobacteriaceae, Enterobacter cloacae , Escherichia coli , and Klebsiella spp. were the most predominant. All isolates except Klebsiella spp. showed high genetic variation (>65%). This study implicates kitfo as a potential reservoir of antibiotic-resistant bacteria for the first time.
Wrong place, wrong time: Runt-related transcription factor 2/SATB2 pathway in bone development and carcinogenesis

Upregulation or aberrant expression of genes such as special AT-rich sequence-binding protein 2 (SATB2) is necessary for normal cell differentiation and tissue development and is often associated with carcinogenesis and metastatic progression. SATB2 is a critical transcription factor for biological development of various specialized cell lineages, such as osteoblasts and neurons. The dysregulation of SATB2 expression has recently been associated with various types of cancer, while the mechanisms and pathways by which it mediates tumorigenesis are not well elucidated. Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) is a master regulator for osteogenesis, and it shares common pathways with SATB2 to regulate bone development. Interestingly, these two transcription factors co-occur in several epithelial and mesenchymal cancers and are linked by multiple cancer-related proteins and microRNAs. This review examines the interactions between RUNX2 and SATB2 in a network necessary for normal bone development and the circumstances in which the expression of RUNX2 and SATB2 in the wrong place and time leads to carcinogenesis.
The Misguided Search for Causation in Empirical Legal Studies

This paper is about one aspect common to most of the methodologies used in empirical legal research: the search for causation. Although it is commonly stated that the purpose of social science research is to discover what causes what, the author questions this assumption. Building on the work of Ronald Coase and Thomas Schelling, the author presents an alternative theory of causation - "reciprocal causation" - and discusses some implications of the Coase-Schelling approach to human interactions for empirical legal research.
Redundant Imaging in Transient Ischemic Attack: Evidence From the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample.

Abstract Purpose Increasing emergency department (ED) compliance with transient ischemic attack (TIA) imaging guidelines has previously been demonstrated, along with a substantial rise in imaging utilization over the past decade. The purpose of this study was to characterize the most commonly used combinations of imaging studies during ED workup of TIA and to quantify prevalence of redundant imaging (RI). Methods TIA discharges from EDs in the United States from 2006 to 2017 were identified in the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample. Brain and neurovascular imaging obtained during the encounter was identified using Current Procedural Terminology codes. RI was defined as an ED encounter with any duplicate cross-sectional brain, brain-vascular, or neck-vascular imaging. Patient demographics and hospital characteristics were incorporated into a multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify significant associations with RI. Results There were 184,870 discharges with TIA from EDs in 2017. RI (brain) was observed in 55,513 (30%) of encounters. RI (brain-vascular) and RI (neck-vascular) imaging was identified in 5,149 (2.8%) and 1,325 (0.7%) of encounters, respectively. Decreased odds of obtaining RI was observed in Medicaid patients (odds ratio [OR]: 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.64-0.81), non–trauma centers (OR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.26-0.93), rural hospital locations (OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.11-0.29), and weekend encounters (OR: 0.9, 95% CI: 0.85-0.96). Trend analysis from 2006 to 2017 demonstrated a rise in RI (brain) from 2.3% of encounters in 2006 to 30% of encounters in 2017. RI for patients discharged from EDs with TIA in 2017 resulted in additional charges of approximately US$8,670,832. Conclusion Increased imaging utilization for TIA workup across EDs in the United States is associated with rising use of redundant imaging. We identify imaging practices that could be targeted to mitigate health care expenditures while adhering to TIA imaging guidelines.
An influence diagram approach to automating lead time estimation in Agile Kanban project management

Abstract This research introduces an influence diagram based approach to estimating task lead times for Agile Kanban project management. Derived from the principles of lean manufacturing, Agile methodologies including Scrum, Scrumban, and Kanban are common in the software industry and are spreading to other fields. Many teams estimate task delivery to better manage stakeholder expectations and improve decision making. However, the current technique involves calculating a team’s story point completion velocity, requiring hours of weekly effort while overlooking the addition, removal, and reprioritization of backlog tasks. While these factors may be critical in Scrum, teams practicing Kanban experience these conditions frequently due to the emphasis on continuous integration and reprioritization. Our alternative approach applies an influence diagram, or Bayesian belief network, to model the uncertainties affecting the lead time. To partially automate the estimation process, an influence diagram based expert system is developed and populated with data from a practicing Kanban team and used to generate a cumulative distribution function to facilitate the communication of probabilistic estimates. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to better understand how each factor influences lead times. This system can assist Kanban teams’ stakeholder communication and reduce estimation workload through a more holistic model of lead times.
Packaging Assembly Techniques

The basic function of packaging is the transfer of energy from one level to another. The type of energy electrical, thermal, or optical generally defines the level or type of packaging function. The first level of packaging deals with the interconnection of semiconductor or optoelectronic devices to some kind of leadframe. The second level of packaging concerns itself with interconnection of the aforementioned leadframe to a circuit board, on which other packaged devices are also mounted. The requirements for the packaging essentially drives the technologies used and manufacturing techniques incorporated. In the area of optoelectronics, the prime concern is the transfer of optical and electrical energy from board level to the device. For semiconductor devices, the focus is limited to the electrical domain. The key considerations in packaging assembly techniques include electrical performance, optical performance, thermal performance, reliability, cost, manufacturability, testability, device protection, and mechanical integrity. For any given application, all these factors must be considered and then, the package should be designed that meets all of the requirements. It is necessary to make compromises and trade-offs in each of these areas while making packaging decisions.
Chapter 6 Use of the Mitotic Selection Procedure for Cell Cycle Analysis: Emphasis on Radiation-Induced Mitotic Delay1

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the technique of monitoring the number of cells entering mitosis following various treatments and provides a precise method for locating the points in the cycle where certain events are terminated. For example, the completion of events which renders the cells resistant to radiation-induced mitotic delay is located 8 minutes earlier in G 2 for 30-60 rads than for doses exceeding 100 rads. The transition point for cycloheximide (5-50 μg/ml) does not coincide exactly with the TP for X-rays, as has been reported, but instead precedes it by 8-15 minutes depending on the radiation dose. Another important aspect of the technique is being able to study the movement of cells between the different transition points. Although formulation of a model for mitotic delay may be premature, the data are consistent with the hypothesis that ionizing radiation damages structures having some relationship with chromatin and that these structures are in their final stages of assembly late in G 2 , that is, in the AMD 5 -X window. Thus, the cells should sustain a large part of their delay, as observed, during the final period when the assembly is being completed. The sensitivity to radiation, as measured by mitotic delay, would decrease, as observed, during the final period because once the structures are assembled, they would be refractory to radiation damage.
nor any drop to drink

In many ways, E. C. Pielou's comprehensive and comprehensible book describing the cycle of water in the terrestrial environment (especially as it is influenced by human intervention) is reminiscent of Luna Leopold's classic Water: A Primer, published some 25 years ago. Fresh Water is evidently intended to teach lay readers about the crucial issues posed by the dwindling supplies and deteriorating quality of fresh water available for human use. Her writing is didactic and definitive, in places even charming, and is buttressed by clear illustrations, avoiding rigorous mathematical formulations. Especially enlightening are the explanations of such complex phenomena as hydraulic jumps, the transition from laminar to turbulent flow, water movement in aquifers, the nature of karst and the tendency of rivers to meander.
Watershed Development Restrictions and Land Prices: Empirical Evidence from Buncombe County North Carolina

The State of North Carolina's Water Supply Watershed Protection Act of 1989 required local governments to adopt land use measures in watersheds to protect the water supply emanating from the watersheds. Watershed protection ordinances often contain minimum lot size restrictions that constrain development density in the watershed. We examine vacant land prices in Buncombe County's Ivy River Watershed at the time such a regulation took effect: two-acre minimum lot sizes were mandated inside the watershed. Our results suggest that costs of watershed development restrictions are borne primarily by those vacant land owners in the watershed for whom the development restrictions make land subdivision infeasible.
Ideology, constitutional culture and institutional change: the EU constitution as reflection of Europe’s emergent postmodernism

Using the example of the European Constitution, this paper argues that ideology plays a much more important role in institutional change than has been indicated hitherto in the literature. Rather than being an intellectual parlor-game, Postmodernism has emerged through European high culture to find its voice in the new Constitution. Although it was rejected by a critical mass of voters, the proposed Constitution offers a telling glimpse into the European intellectual mindset – especially since politicians are now bruiting the possibility of ratifying the constitution via compliant legislatures rather than fickle referenda. Anomalies in the document are better explained by the post-World War Two emergence of postmodern philosophy in Europe than by more traditional explanations from political economy.
Rocker-soled shoes and walking distance in patients with calf claudication

Abstract Calf claudication is the major clinical manifestation of peripheral vascular occlusive disease in a significant number of patients. Although claudication causes substantial patient disability, most patients are treated conservatively because of the risks of surgical therapy and the uncertain efficacy of drug therapy. It was hypothesized that rocker-soled shoes would decrease the work of the plantar flexors and therefore increase walking distance in patients with calf claudication. To test this hypothesis, walking distances in patients with calf claudication using rocker-soled shoes and a placebo shoe insert were compared. Rocker-soled shoes significantly increased both the total distance walked and the distance at which patients were initially bothered by symptoms by 77m (37%, p p =.003), respectively. It was concluded that rocker-soled shoes may reduce disability in patients with calf claudication by increasing walking distance.
The ecology of language evolution

1. Introduction 2. The founder principle in the development of creoles 3. The development of American Englishes: factoring contact in and the social bias out 4. The legitimate and illegitimate offspring of English 5. What research on the development of creoles can contribute to genetic linguistics 6. Language contact, evolution and death: how ecology rolls the dice 7. Past and recent population movements in Africa: their impact on its linguistic landscape 8. Conclusions for the big picture.
Isolation and Pharmacological Evaluation of Minor Cannabinoids from High-Potency Cannabis sativa

Seven new naturally occurring hydroxylated cannabinoids (1–7), along with the known cannabiripsol (8), have been isolated from the aerial parts of high-potency Cannabis sativa. The structures of the new compounds were determined by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis, GC-MS, and HRESIMS as 8α-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (1), 8β-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (2), 10α-hydroxy-Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol (3), 10β-hydroxy-Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol (4), 10α-hydroxy-Δ9,11-hexahydrocannabinol (5), 9β,10β-epoxyhexahydrocannabinol (6), and 11-acetoxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (7). The binding affinity of isolated compounds 1–8, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol toward CB1 and CB2 receptors as well as their behavioral effects in a mouse tetrad assay were studied. The results indicated that compound 3, with the highest affinity to the CB1 receptors, exerted the most potent cannabimimetic-like actions in the tetrad assay, while compound 4 showed partial cannabimimetic actions. Compound 2, o...
Investigation of Ultra-Thin Iron Films

Ultra-thin ferromagnetic films prepared by vacuum evaporation are subject to two effects that can have a profound influence on experimental observations. First, the films tend to oxidize; for example, for an oxygen partial pressure of 10−6 torr at room temperature a monatomic layer of oxygen may form in as short a time as 1 sec. Second, if the film deposition is interrupted at an early stage, it may have an island structure. If the typical island volume V is such that KV, the anisotropy energy, is of the order of or less than kT, the island will be superparamagnetic. This implies that the magnetization vector M S V, where M S is the saturation magnetization, will undergo a kind of Brownian rotation with a relaxation time that may be short relative to the measurement time. Both of these effects will tend to simulate a decreased saturation magnetization and Curie temperature [1].
Moving from data architecture to event architecture in the EMS environment

Information models and databases are at the center of the design of most current software systems. The job done by the active portions, the applications, is to transform the data as needed. If the applications can, they work in a strictly stateless, data transforming paradigm, because this creates the simplest sort of reliable system. Our EMS systems are complex, real-time systems that cannot adopt this simplest paradigm, but they nevertheless follow a data-centric architecture. This is about to change. "Message buses" or "integration buses" or "event buses" are different names for the ability to connect applications with high speed flexible messaging. This technology is now ready for prime time and the question is - how are we going to use it? Are we going to take advantage of the active voice communication that events can provide? Or, are we going to stay predominantly in the familiar data orientation? The situation is somewhat analogous to the now-familiar experience that procedural programmers, when given object oriented languages, often did not go through the paradigm-shift and produced procedural code written in object languages. In this paper, we focus on the advantages that can be achieved in the temporal domain - a long-standing trouble-spot in EMS design.
‘Expatriates’: Gender, Race and Class Distinctions in International Management

In the international management (IM) literature, ‘expatriate’ is used as a verb in reference to the transnational movement of employees by multinational corporations (MNCs) and as a noun in reference to the people who are so moved across borders to work. IM's resulting expatriate analyses apply only to a specific minority of relatively privileged people. However, as is clear in other bodies of literature, many others (‘migrants’) in less privileged class positions move themselves across national boundaries for work. In this majority are often women and men — people of diverse races, ethnicities, economic and social means — who have less education and who work in lower level jobs, also often in or for MNCs. Their invisibility in the IM literature sustains and reinforces gender, race and class-based disparities in globalization processes and work to the detriment of poor women of colour around the world. We call for gendering change that would make visible the invisible in IM scholarship related to expatriation.
Structure and function relationship of human heart from DENSE MRI

The study here, suggests a macroscopic structure for the Left Ventricle (LV), based on the heart kinematics which is obtained through imaging. The measurement of the heart muscle deformation using the Displacement ENcoding with Stimulated Echoes (DENSE) MRI, which describes the heart kinematics in the Lagrangian frame work, is used to determine the high resolution patterns of true myocardial strain. Subsequently, the tangential Shortening Index (SI) and the thickening of the LV wall are calculated for each data point. Considering the heart as a positive-displacement pump, the contribution of each segment of LV in the heart function, can be determined by the SI and thickening of the wall in the same portion. Hence the SI isosurfaces show the extent and spatial distribution of the heart activity and reveals its macro structure. The structure and function of the heart are, therefore, related which in turn results in a macroscopic model for the LV. In particular, it was observed that the heart functionality is not uniformly distributed in the LV, and the regions with greater effect on the pumping process, form a band which wraps around the heart. These results, which are supported by the established histological evidence, may be considered as a landmark in connecting the structure and function of the heart through imaging. Furthermore, the compatibility of this model with microscopic observations about the fiber direction is investigated [1]. This method may be used for planning as well as post evaluation of the ventriculoplasty.
Relativistic Hamiltonian dynamics

Abstract A manifestly covariant relativistic hamiltonian dynamics is presented for a closed system of N particles in mutual interaction. The “no-interaction theorem” is overcome by use of relativistic center-of-mass variables instead of individual particle variables. The theory permits canonical quantization.
Structure of a bacteriochlorophyll a-protein from the green photosynthetic bacterium Prosthecochloris aestuarii.

Abstract The three-dimensional structure of a water-soluble bacteriochlorophyll a -containing protein from the green photosynthetic bacterium Prosthecochloris aestuarii has been determined by X-ray crystallography from a 2.8 A resolution electron density map based on four isomorphous derivatives. Details of the crystallographic procedures used to obtain the map are presented. The bacteriochlorophyll a -protein is shown to consist of three identical subunits, tightly packed around a 3-fold symmetry axis. Each subunit consists of a core of seven bacteriochlorophyll a molecules enclosed within a “bag” of protein. The polypeptide chain forms an extensive 15-strand β-sheet, which is almost planar in its central region, and twisted at its extremities, and wraps around the chlorophyll core to form an efficient amphipathic layer between the chlorophylls and the aqueous environment. There are extensive contacts between the phytyl chains of the seven bacteriochlorophylls within each subunit. These hydrocarbon chains constitute an inner hydrophobic core of the molecule which may be important in forming the complex. There are also extensive contacts between the protein and both the bacteriochlorophyll head groups and tails, but relatively few contacts between the respective head groups. The seven magnesiums all appear to be five co-ordinated. In five cases the presumed ligand is a histidine side-chain, in one case a polypeptide carbonyl oxygen, and in the other case a water molecule. At low temperature, both the absorption and circular dichroism spectra of the bacteriochlorophyll a -protein show splitting which can be interpreted in general terms as due to exciton interactions between the seven chromophores, but calculations of the expected splitting based on the bacteriochlorophyll co-ordinates determined crystallographically are in poor agreement with the observed spectra. Furthermore, the observed red shift of the Q y absorption band of bacteriochlorophyll a , from about 770 nm in organic solvents to 809 nm in the bacteriochlorophyll a -protein, is not explained by the exciton calculations. It seems likely that the red shift is due to perturbations of the spectra of the individual bacteriochlorophylls by the protein environment, but, pending the determination of the amino acid sequence, it is not possible at this time to define in detail all the proteinchlorophyll interactions. It is suggested that the bacteriochlorophyll a -protein serves as a good model for the organization of chlorophyll in vivo , and that the types of interaction seen here between chlorophyll and protein are likely to be found in other chlorophyll proteins.
What is happening to China's GDP statistics?

Abstract This paper argues that official Chinese statistics contain major exaggerations of real output growth beginning 1998. The standard data contain numerous inconsistencies. Chinese commentaries castigate widespread falsification at lower levels and question the autheticity of figures emanating from the central statistical authorities. The author speculates that cumulative GDP growth during 1997/2001 was no more one-third of official claims, and possibly much smaller.
Survey Results: The Use of the NCCLS Standard, M22-A2, and "Quality Assurance for Commercially Prepared Microbiological Culture Media" by Clinical Laboratories

Introduction In October 1999, the Subcommittee for the Quality Control of Microbiological Media of the NCCLS requested the cooperation of subscribers to the Clinical Microbiology Newsletter in completing a survey of laboratory protocols for media quality control (QC) (1). The subcommittee will use this information to prepare the next revision of the NCCLS M22-A2 approved standard, “Quality Assurance for Commercially Prepared Microbiological Culture Media” (2). The revision is currently underway and the information provided by the survey respondents has proven invaluable to the subcommittee’s efforts to update the standard to reflect the current practices of microbiology laboratories. As a prelude to the eventual publication of the new revision, the subcommittee would like to share the results of the survey with the readers of the Clinical Microbiology Newsletter.
Slow Cortical Evoked Potentials: Interactions of Auditory, Vibro-Tactile and Shock Stimuli

An interaction experiment, in which stimuli of one kind were interposed between stimuli of another variety, was performed on 6 subjects with 8 replications. Cortical vertex potentials evoked by shocks to the median nerve, by vibrotactile stimulation of a finger or by 2400 Hz filtered clicks were averaged by a computer. The inter-stimulus interval was 5 sec. Then stimuli of two different kinds were presented alternately at 2.5 sec intervals. The responses for each kind were averaged separately. The amplitudes, measured from N1 to P2, were compared for all combinations of the three modalities.Cross-modality depression of response occurred (10% level of confidence) for tactile responses with interposed auditory stimuli and (1 % level of confidence) for shock responses with interposed tactile stimuli. A general trend toward depression was clear, with an overall average of 15%, although it was not consistent for all subjects or symmetrical among types of stimuli. This compares with 28% depression when the inte...
Induction of metallothionein mRNA and protein following exposure of cultured human proximal tubule cells to cadmium.

Abstract Humans have a complex expression of metallothionein (MT) genes which involves many MT isoforms encoded by a family of genes containing an upper limit of 12 possible functional genes, in contrast to most animals which have one or two functional MT genes. In the present study, human proximal tubule (HPT) cells were exposed to cadmium (Cd) to determine if these cultures might serve as a model system to study MT gene expression in the renal proximal tubule. Three independent isolates of HPT cells were shown to repeatably induce MT protein when exposed continually to a non-toxic dose of 1 μg/ml of Cd administered as CdCl 2 . Accumulation of MT protein was noted within 3 h and persisted over the 16-day time course. The expression of mRNA for the MT-IIA, MT-IA, B, E, F and G genes was also assessed through 16 days of exposure to 1 μg/ml of Cd versus control media. Of these, the mRNA for the MT-IIA, MT-IE, MT-IF and MT-IG genes were detected in the cells exposed to 1 μg/ml of Cd. Overall, the results were supportive that the HPT cells can provide a valuable model system to study the regulation of MT gene expression as it applies to the human renal proximal tubule.
A computational approach to the investigation of impact damage evolution in discontinuously reinforced fiber composites

A micromechanical damage constitutive model for discontinuous fiber-reinforced composites is developed to perform impact simulation. Progressive interfacial fiber debonding and a crack-weakened model are considered in accordance with a statistical function to describe the varying probability of damage. Emanating from a constitutive damage model for aligned fiber-reinforced composites, a micromechanical damage constitutive model for randomly oriented, discontinuous fiber-reinforced composites is developed. The constitutive damage model is then implemented into a finite element program DYNA3D to simulate the dynamic behavior and the progressive damage of composites. Finally, numerical simulations for a biaxial loading test and a four-point bend impact test of composite specimens are performed to validate the computational model and investigate impact damage evolution in discontinuous fiber-reinforced composite structures. Furthermore, in order to address the influence of Weibull parameter S o on the damage evolution in composites, parametric analysis is carried out.
Transplantation of Center for Disease Control “High-Risk” Donor Hearts Does Not Adversely Impact Long-Term Outcomes in Adults

Abstract Background The "high-risk donor" (HRD) label was applied to donors who met the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for high-risk behavior in 2004. The number of potential recipients who die awaiting orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT) has increased. Despite organ shortages, HRD grafts are often declined given infectious concerns. We hypothesized that recipients would have equivalent outcomes. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the United Network of Organ Sharing adult heart transplant data from June 2004 to December 2013. OHT recipients were divided into 2 cohorts by donor status. Results During the study period, 37,408 OHTs were performed and 3196 (8.5%) patients received HRD grafts. Recipients of HRD were significantly older ( P P P = .69) or blood type ( P = .07) was noted. A higher number of HRD recipients were on mechanical circulatory support (35.6%) compared with standard-risk donor (33.3%, P = .009). Both grafts manifested similar, low rates of rejection before discharge ( P = .88). One1 (84.3 vs 83%) and 5-year (71.2 vs 65.5%) survival was similar in the cohorts (log-rank P = .7571). Conclusions HRD status does not significantly affect recipient outcomes after OHT. Increased use of HRD grafts could augment donor pool and decrease the mortality associated with long waitlist times.
UVA-Induced DNA single-strand cleavage by 1-hydroxypyrene and formation of covalent adducts between DNA and 1-hydroxypyrene.

1-Hydroxypyrene (HOP), a metabolite found in the urine of humans and laboratory animals exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), is known to be both acutely toxic and genotoxic. It has been widely used as a biomarker for studying PAH exposure. In this research, we have found that, upon UVA irradiation, HOP causes DNA single-strand cleavages and forms HOP−DNA covalent adducts. The UVA-induced cleavage of supercoiled plasmid ΦX174 DNA is dependent upon both HOP concentration and UVA dosage. A longer irradiation time or higher HOP concentration induces more DNA cleavage. Results of the photocleavage experiments carried out in the presence of reactive oxygen species scavengers, histidine, sodium azide, mannitol, SOD, and desferal indicate that both the superoxide free radical and singlet oxygen are likely involved in causing DNA single-strand cleavage. The photocleavage is inhibited by the presence of an excited singlet-state quencher, KI, indicating that it is an excited-state reaction. Along with...
A Design Approach for Intermediate Die Shapes in Plane Strain Forgings

A new technique has been developed for the design of die shapes in the plane strain forging process. The objective of this research work is to develop a design procedure to obtain the number of stages and the shape of each die for manufacturing a desired product. Metal flow during the forging is considered in the design of the intermediate die shapes in multistage forgings. The two approaches developed for the preform shapes design are conformal mapping techniques and ideal material flow simulations. The forging process is simulated using a nonlinear rigid visco plastic finite element program ALPID (analysis of large plastic incremental deformation). Staging criteria is developed from the results of the forging simulation and the number of stages are based on the stress ratio parameterg (mean stress/effective stress) and strain rate gradient information. This paper presents two examples of forgings to demonstrate an optimal die shape design methodology.
CLEAVAGE OF THE TRANSFERRIN RECEPTOR IS INFLUENCED BY THE COMPOSITION OF THE O-LINKED CARBOHYDRATE AT POSITION 104

A soluble form of the human transferrin receptor (TfR) resulting from proteolytic cleavage at Arg 100 has been measured in human blood. In tissue culture cells elimination of the O-linked carbohydrate at Thr 104, four amino acids from the cleavage site, results in enhanced cleavage of the TfR (Rutledge et al., 1994, Blood, 83:580-586). In the present set of studies, the influence of amino acid substitution and the composition of the oligosaccharide at amino acid 104 on the cleavage of the TfR was examined. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to generate six different amino acids at position 104 which varied in size and charge. Measurement of the soluble TfR in the conditioned medium of the transfected cells of each mutant TfR showed that the large and charged side chains inhibited TfR cleavage the most. Otherwise the properties of the mutant TfRs were indistinguishable from the wild-type TfR in that the affinity of transferrin for these receptors, the extent of disulfide bond formation of the TfRs, and the proportion of TfRs at the cell surface were similar to that of the wild-type TfR. Removal of the sialic acid component of the carbohydrate from wild-type TfR by treatment of live cells with neuraminidase enhances TfR cleavage. Expression of wild-type TfR in CHO IdlD cells (a glycosylation defective cell line) also shows enhanced cleavage under conditions that produce truncated or no O-linked carbohydrates. Treatment of IdlD cells with neuraminidase reveals that the sialic acid of the O-linked carbohydrate protects against TfR cleavage, whereas the core sugars Gal-NAc and Gal do not protect as much. These results show that the terminal charged sialic acid residues are important for protection from proteolytic cleavage and suggest that cleavage could be regulated in the cell by removal of all or part of the carbohydrate.
Laser reflectometry of submegahertz liquid meniscus ringing

Optical techniques that permit nondestructive probing of interfacial dynamics of various media are of key importance in numerous applications such as ellipsometry, mirage effect, and all-optical switching. Characterization of the various phases of microjet droplet formation yields important information for volume control, uniformity, velocity, and rate. The ringing of the meniscus and the associated relaxation time that occurs after droplet breakoff affect subsequent drop formation and is an indicator of the physical properties of the fluid. Using laser reflectometry, we present an analysis of the meniscus oscillations in an orifice of a piezoelectric microjet.
Bretylium: relations between plasma concentrations and pharmacologic actions in high-frequency ventricular arrhythmias.

Abstract Although it is widely assumed that the early arrhythmogenic and pressor responses to bretylium are caused by catecholamine release from the adrenergic neuron, this assumption has not been systematically studied in humans. Pharmacologic responses to a placebo infusion and 3 separate bretylium infusions (2.5, 5.0, 10 mg/kg over 60 minutes) were assessed in 6 patients with recurrent, nonsustained ventricular tachycardia. Plasma bretylium concentration, blood pressure (BP), plasma norepinephrine (NE) concentration, arrhythmia frequency and adrenergic neuronal blockade (assessed by the presence or absence of reflex venoconstriction) were measured. Adrenergic blockade was seen with every bretylium infusion and at a time when relatively small amounts of bretylium had been administered (range 160 to 750 mg, median 252). Temporal relations (p
Photooxidation of formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase in the presence of methylene blue.

Abstract Photooxidation of formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase from Clostridium acidi-urici in the presence of methylene blue results in a pseudo-first-order loss of enzymic activity and destruction of histidine residues. In addition, a loss of cysteine and methionine residues occurs at levels of inactivation greater than 50%. Both the pH rate profile for photoinactivation which shows an inflection point near pH 6.3, as well as the correlation of loss of activity with the loss of two histidines per subunit, indicate that the primary event responsible for inactivation is the destruction of histidine. Measurements of the ability of the photooxidized enzyme to bind substrates using the method of equilibrium partitioning indicate that the loss in activity is not due to an inability to bind ATP or tetrahydropteroyl triglutamate, and thus a possible catalytic role for histidine is suggested.