cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Measurement of plasma thyroxine binding protein in relation to thyroidal condition in the turtle, Trachemys scripta, by radioimmunoassay.

Polyclonal (rabbit) antisera were generated against a high-affinity plasma thyroxine (T4) binding protein (TBP) purified from the turtle, Trachemys scripta, and used to develop a specific radioimmunoassay (RIA). The RIA demonstrated the presence of an immunochemically related protein in the plasma of several other species of Trachemys and in members of several other genera from the same family, Emydidae. Plasma from all nonemydids and some emydid genera either showed no competition or nonparallelism in RIA. The presence and level of radioimmunoassayable TBP in diverse species correlated with results of previous comparative measurements of T4 binding activity. However, an immunoreactive protein of the same molecular weight as TBP was identified in all turtles by Western blot analysis. More detailed studies in T. scripta demonstrated that variations in plasma T4 binding activity induced by experimental or environmental manipulations were related to differences in TBP concentrations. The concentration of TBP varied by orders of magnitude (from <1 to ca. 150 mg/liter) in euthyroid animals; levels showed ontogenetic changes (virtually absent in hatchlings) and were directly related to thyroidal status. Experimentally induced hypothyroidism (goitrogen treatment or surgical thyroidectomy) resulted in a marked suppression of TBP, and T4 treatment prevented its decline or reinstated it. Thus, in the turtle, this T4 transport protein may exist in higher concentrations and its levels are more variable and show a different relationship to thyroid activity than the analogous T4 binding globulin (TBG) in mammals.
A new method for obtaining a more effective estimation of atmospheric temperature in the contiguous United States

Abstract In the study of climate change, temperature is one of the most important variables, along with greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide. Due to the increased attention given to the subject of climate change, the need for accurate, unbiased temperature records is of paramount importance. The purpose of the present study is to propose a new method of obtaining a better representation of atmospheric temperature in the contiguous United States. We evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method and compare the results with a commonly used method. It is shown that the proposed method is more effective and appropriate for estimating the average annual temperature of the contiguous United States.
Role of elastolytic cathepsins in vascular remodeling

Background: We now appreciate that the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) involves breakdown of extracellular matrix (ECM). We recently implicated certain elastolytic cysteine-dependent cathepsins in these pathological processes. Results: We demonstrated over-expression of cathepsins S and K in human atheroma and AAA, and colocalized cathepsin S-positive medial smooth muscle cells (SMC) with sites of internal elastic lamina fragmentation. Moreover, depletion of cystatin C, the most abundant endogenous cysteine protease inhibitor, characterizes both atherosclerotic and aneurysmal lesions. To test directly the role of cathepsin S in atherogenesis, we studied targeted disruption of the cathepsin S gene in atherosclerosis-prone LDLr−/− mice consuming a western diet. Cathepsin S deficiency significantly decreased atherosclerosis. Better-preserved elastin in the tunica media of cathepsin S-deficient mice likely reflected the diminished elastolytic activity in cathepsin S−/− SMC (p<0.0001) compared with wild-type SMC. These mice had fewer SMC and less collagen in their intimal lesions, probably because SMC migration requires degradation of elastin. Conclusions: Our findings in situ, in vitro and in vivo establish an important role for cathepsins in vascular remodeling.
Humoral- and cell-mediated immune responses to herpesvirus antigens in patients with cervical carcinoma

Abstract The humoral and cellular immune responses were studied in 35 patients with cervical carcinoma (Ca Cx) and 32 healthy controls. Complement fixing (CF) and indirect hemagglutinating antibody (IHA) titers for herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1), herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2), and cytomegalovirus (CMV), and fluorescent antibody (FA) titers for viral capsid antigen for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) were determined. Cellular immune response was measured by the technique of [ 3 H]thymidine uptake by stimulated lymphocytes. Phytohemagglutinin (PHA), HSV-1, HSV-2, and CMV antigens were used as stimulants. CF titers (≥ 1:4) to HSV-1, HSV-2, and CMV were present in 34 ( P P P P P P P P
Framing of comparisons in research and practice

Abstract We discuss important ways in which the framing of a question or a decision can have significant effects on responses. Several areas of research and theory that indicate the scope and importance of these effects are presented. The major discussion, however, is limited to how respnses to comparative judgments and constrained by the other or sequence in which the direction of comparison occurs. Direction of comparison is first discussed with respect to similarity judgments, in which a model taking direction of comparison into account is used to explain both degrees of perceived similarity and asymmetries in judgment. A feature-matching model of comparison is then developed and is used to analyze preference judgments, judgments of change, and self-relevant judgments involving comparisons of the self with other people, with counterfactual alternatives to reality, and with the self at a different point in time. This model is employed to account for predecisional conflict and difficulty, the preference that one makes, and the degree of satisfaction or regret that one feels subsequent to making a comparison. Finally, the potential for applying this framework to areas of consumer behavior, political decision making, and psychotherapy is explored. Techniques for taking advantage of direction of comparison effects as well as methods for eliminating the biases associated with these effects are discussed.
Far-Field Acoustic Response: Origins in the Cat

Short-latency evoked potentials recorded from the vertex of adult cats in response to click stimulation (the far-field acoustic response) were analyzed in a series of lesion experiments to determine the origins of each component. The resultant data indicate that the primary generator of potential is the acoustic nerve; of potential 2, the cochlear nucleus; of potential 3, neurons of the superior olivary complex activated by projections crossing the midline; of potential 4, neurons of the ventral nucleus of the lateral lemniscus and preolivary region activated equally by crossed and uncrossed projections; and of potential 5, neurons of the inferior colliculus activated primarily by crossed projections.
Bi3+/M2+ oxyphosphate: a continuous series of polycationic species from the 1D single chain to the 2D planes. Part 1: From HREM images to crystal-structure deduction.

This work deals with the crystal-structure deduction of new structural types of Bi 3+ -M 2+ oxyphosphates (M is a transition element) from HREM images. Previous studies showed the unequivocal attribution of particular HREM contrasts to the corresponding Bi/M/O-based polycationic species in similar materials. On this basis, the examination of isolated crystallites of polyphased samples led to new HREM contrasts assigned to new polycationic species in three new structural types. This helped us to solve one crystal structure, and the two other forms have been deduced through HREM image decoding. It helped to model the investigated materials from the structural point of view as well as the chemical one. The three assumed crystal structures are formed by polycationic ribbons, n tetrahedra wide, surrounded by PO 4 groups, as already encountered in these series of oxyphosphates. However, here we deal with the original n= 4-6 cases, whereas, up to this work, only the n= 1-3 ribbons have been reported. The greater size of ribbons is associated with particular structural modifications responsible for complex HREM contrasts. The validity of the proposed models is verified in Part 2 of this work.
Tendon subluxation after de Quervain's release: Treatment by brachioradialis tendon flap

Volar subluxation of the tendons of the first dorsal compartment of the wrist occurred in two patients after surgery for treatment of de Quervain's stenosing tenosynovitis. In both patients a painful tenosynovitis of the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus developed, which was unresponsive to conservative therapy as the tendons prolapsed over the prominence of the first dorsal compartment. A distally based flap of the brachioradialis tendon was used to prevent tendon prolapse, with both patients asymptomatic and free of subluxation one and five years after operation.
Steaming Inactivates Phytophthora ramorum, Causal Agent of Sudden Oak Death and Ramorum Blight, from Infested Nursery Soils in California

ABSTRACT Nursery trade plays a major role in the long-distance spread of Phytophthora ramorum, the causal agent of Sudden Oak Death (SOD) and ramorum blight of ornamental plants. Under federal regu...
Development and reworking of a seasonal flood deposit on the inner continental shelf off the Atchafalaya River

Abstract Sediment cores and water column measurements of suspended sediment and flow conditions were taken on the continental shelf off the Atchafalaya River in Louisiana to examine the development and reworking of a seabed flood layer with seasonal variations in river discharge and hydrodynamics. Five stations in water depths of 5–23 m were occupied on the Atchafalaya inner shelf on four cruises from October 1997 to March 1999 representing a range of freshwater input and wave energy conditions. Downcore profiles of the short half-life (53 d) cosmogenic radiotracer 7Be showed a three to fivefold increase in seabed inventory and an increase in depth of penetration during the 1998 high Atchafalaya discharge period (April) at two inshore stations (5–7 m water depth). X-radiograph evidence of the absence of biological mixing at these sites suggests that the 7Be data is recording the deposition of a 1–3 cm thick annual flood deposit. The organic carbon contents and stable carbon isotopic compositions of this flood deposit are distinct and reflect the increased terrestrial influence of the riverine sediment flux. 210Pb and 137Cs sediment profiles indicate that this seasonal deposit is two to six times the long-term (e.g., decadal) accumulation at these sites. Passage of cold fronts on 3–7 d timescales interrupts the formation of these flood deposits, particularly during the rising to early high discharge period (December–March). The depth of sediment resuspension landward of 10 m water depth during these events may reach 1 cm and decreases offshore. Offshore stations (∼20 m water depth) show only a small increase in deposition during the high Atchafalaya discharge period. Redistribution of sediment from shallower parts of the shelf during the remainder of the year is likely a major supplier to these areas. A station east of the Atchafalaya mouth exhibits no correlation with discharge and no long-term accumulation, indicating minimal influence from the Mississippi discharge 150 km to the east.
The transition to work first in a Wisconsin technical college

This chapter focuses on the experiences and lessons learned from the effort by Wisconsin Moraine Park Technical College to develop a welfare-to-work program and emphasizes the importance of having a strong workforce-readiness component in the training program.
The weather attractor over very short timescales

Recent work has used ideas from the theory of dynamical systems in the study of climate and weather over timescales ranging from decades to hundreds of thousands of years1–5. In this study, similar ideas are applied to weather observations over a time interval of 11 hours. The results suggest the existence of a low-dimensional strange attractor.
Route Design for Delivery of Voting Machines in Hamilton County, Ohio

The Help America Vote Act that Congress passed in 2002 required election boards to update their punch card voting systems with new voting technologies by 2006. This change greatly increases the operational and logistical complexities of administering elections in many areas. Because of security concerns and the large physical size of some types of new voting machines, they must be delivered to each polling location during a specified day and time window. Therefore, to generate feasible, cost-effective delivery routes, election boards must solve a difficult vehicle-routing problem. Routes designed by our solution methods have been successfully implemented in Hamilton County, Ohio, to deliver voting machines to polling locations for multiple elections since May 2006. We describe our solution methods and analyze the sensitivity of route costs to time-window and delivery-day constraints. Our sensitivity analysis identified cost-savings strategies that the Hamilton County Board of Elections used to negotiate a new scheduling protocol with poll workers; this protocol reflects a compromise between accommodating poll workers' schedules and reducing the cost of delivering the voting machines. The Board of Elections successfully implemented this new method of specifying delivery time windows, which allowed greater routing flexibility, for the November 2006 midterm election.
Know how to be Gettiered

Jason Stanley and Timothy Williamson’s influential article “Knowing How” argues that knowledge-how is a species of knowledge-that. One objection to their view is that knowledge-how is significantly different than knowledge-that because Gettier cases afflict the latter but not the former. Stanley and Williamson argue that this objection fails. Their response, however, is not adequate. Moreover, I sketch a plausible argument that knowledge-how is not susceptible to Gettier cases. This suggests a significant distinction between knowledge-that and knowledge-how.
Candida antigen titre dilution and death after injury

Background Candida infections affect outcome after injury. Candida antigen titres were used to detect these infections early. This study was undertaken to correlate Candida antigen titre dilution with conventional injury scoring and outcome after severe injury. Methods Candida antigen titres were determined by agglutination when clinically apparent source(s) of Candida were noted, when Candida was grown in culture of body fluids, or when unexplained clinical deterioration occurred. The findings were compared with the Injury Severity Score (ISS). Results Seventy-five seriously injured adults (median ISS 25 (range 18-50)) developed raised Candida antigen titres. Multivariate analysis showed that age and Candida antigen titre correlated significantly with mortality, but not with each other. Culture evidence of Candida, or lack thereof, did not correlate with Candida antigen titre or mortality. Sixteen of 75 patients died, 14 from bacterial sepsis and none from Candida infection. Conclusion In seriously injured adults, the mortality rate is related to raised Candida antigen titres. The association between Candida antigen titre and mortality, although real, remains unexplained.
Sequential Sampling With Kernel-Based Bayesian Network Classifiers

Complex design problems are typically decomposed into smaller design problems that are solved by domain-specific experts who must then coordinate their solutions into a satisfactory system-wide solution. In set-based collaborative design, collaborating engineers coordinate themselves by communicating multiple design alternatives at each step of the design process. Previous research has demonstrated that classifiers can be a communication medium for facilitating set-based collaborative design because of their ability to divide a design space into satisfactory and unsatisfactory regions. The proposed kernel-based Bayesian network (KBN) classifier uses a set of example designs of known acceptability, called the training set, to create a map of the satisfactory region of the design space. However, previous implementations used deterministic space-filling sampling sequences to choose the training set of designs. The shortcoming of deterministic space-filling sampling schemes is that they do not adapt to focus the samples on regions of interest to the design team (exploitation) or, alternatively, on regions in which little information is known (exploration). In this paper, we introduce the use of KBN classifiers as the basis for sequential sampling strategies that can be exploitive, exploratory, or any combination thereof.
Dietary supplementation of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, Dunal) enhances NK cell function in ovarian tumors in the laying hen model of spontaneous ovarian cancer.

Problem Ovarian cancer (OVCA) disseminates in a distinct pattern through peritoneal metastasis and little is known about the immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Our goal was to determine changes in NK cell population during OVCA development and the effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, Dunal) supplementation on NK cell localization in laying hens with OVCA. Methods Frequency of NK cells in ovarian tumors at early and late stages in 3- to 4-year-old hens (exploratory study) as well as in hens supplemented with dietary Ashwagandha root powder for 90 days (prospective study) was examined. Results The population of stromal NK cells but not the intratumoral NK cells increased with OVCA development and progression. Ashwagandha supplementation decreased the incidence and progression of OVCA. Both the stromal and intratumoral NK cell population increased significantly (P < 0.0001) in Ashwagandha supplementated hens. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that the population of stromal and tumorinfiltrating NK cells is increased by dietary Ashwagandha supplementation. Thus, Ashwagandha may enhance antitumor function of NK cells. This study may be useful for a clinical study to determine the effects of dietary Ashwagandha on NK cell immune function in patients with ovarian cancer.
Finite Rate Feedback for Spatially and Temporally Correlated MISO Channels in the Presence of Estimation Errors and Feedback Delay

In this paper, the problem of finite-rate feedback for spatially and temporally correlated Rayleigh fading multiple input single output (MISO) channels with estimation errors at the receiver and feedback delay is addressed. A model that captures estimation errors, feedback delay, and finite-rate quantization of the channel is developed. A novel codebook design algorithm that minimizes the loss in ergodic capacity is proposed. Simulation results show that the new codebook designed under the consideration of estimation errors and feedback delay outperforms the codebook designed assuming ideal conditions. Analysis for the loss in ergodic capacity for spatially i.i.d channels with channel estimation errors and delay (EED) is presented and validated through simulations.
Creating a unique digital fingerprint using existing combinational logic

Creating digital circuits of ever decreasing size leads to certain imperfections that cannot be avoided. Although these imperfections are not significant enough to hinder the digital circuit operation, they are random and can be exploited to create a unique digital fingerprint which can be used as a chip identity. Unique digital fingerprints can be created on any number of circuits and in our research we created 60 digital fingerprints, all of which were uniquely identifiable. The digital fingerprint is a function of the amount of combinational logic that forms the circuit and can be applied to any sufficiently large combinational circuit. In this research, we have used a combinational multiplier and we show how a longer combinational path leads to a larger number of captured glitches. In addition, we show the effects of temperature changes on the digital fingerprint.
Relaxation oscillations and other non-michaelian behavior in a slow-fast phytoplankton growth model

Abstract A physiological model of nutrient uptake, based on an enzyme mechanism for membrane transport, is combined with a phytoplankton biomass growth equation based on internal nutrient limitation. The system of equations thus obtained can model phytoplankton growth with a considerably richer dynamics than the Michaelis-Menten-Monod (M3) model or the Droop model. In particular, since the characteristic time scale of nutrient uptake is considerably faster than that of biomass increase, a singular perturbation problem results, leading to relaxation oscillations (similar to the Van der Pol oscillator) and other non-Michaelian type long-term dynamical behavior. In contrast with both the Michaelis-Menten-Monod model and the Droop model, which were developed using steady-state chemostat data, the present model would seem to be appropriate for batch cultures and lakes with long turnover times, where the assumptions of the chemostat steady state are not fulfilled. Three sets of data are cited which circumstantially support the model suggesting that the hypothesized uptake mechanism may warrant further experimental investigation.
Trace Scheduling: A Technique for Global Microcode Compaction

Microcode compaction is the conversion of sequential microcode into efficient parallel (horizontal) microcode. Local compaction techniques are those whose domain is basic blocks of code, while global methods attack code with a general flow control. Compilation of high-level microcode languages into efficient horizontal microcode and good hand coding probably both require effective global compaction techniques.
The human macrophage sodium channel NaV1.5 regulates mycobacteria processing through organelle polarization and localized calcium oscillations.

Phagocytosis and intracellular processing of mycobacteria by macrophages are complex cellular processes that require spatial and temporal coordination of particle uptake, organelle movement, activation of signaling pathways, and channel-mediated ionic flux. Recent work demonstrated that human macrophage NaV1.5, an intracellular voltage-gated sodium channel expressed on late endosomes, enhances endosomal acidification and phagocytosis. Here, using bacillus Camille-Guerin (BCG) as a model of mycobacterial infection, we examined how this channel regulates phagocytosis and phagosome maturation in human macrophages. Knockdown of NaV1.5 reduced high capacity uptake of labeled BCG. BCG-containing, NaV1.5-expressing cells demonstrated localization of NaV1.5 and Rab-7 positive endosomes and mitochondria to periphagosome regions that was not observed in NaV1.5-deficient cells. Knockdown of the channel reduced the initial calcium response following bacterial challenge and prevented the generation of prolonged and localized calcium oscillations during phagosome maturation. Inhibition of the mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger also prevented prolonged calcium oscillations during phagosome maturation. These results suggest that NaV1.5 and mitochondrial-dependent calcium signaling regulate mycobacteria phagocytosis and phagosome maturation in human macrophages through spatial-temporal coordination of calcium signaling within a unique subcellular region.
Adult bone marrow contains precursors for CD5+ B cells

To determine directly whether B cell precursors of adult origin are capable of generating CD5+ B cells, we reconstituted neonatal C3H. SCID mice with adult C57BL/6 bone marrow and analyzed splenic B cells 10 months later. Surface staining and flow cytometry revealed that the B cells were of donor origin and that 30% were CD5+. This confirms that in vivo generated CD5+ B cells can be adult derived. After anti-IgM (but not lipopolysaccharide) stimulation in vitro, virtually all of the B cells from the bone marrow-reconstituted mice expressed surface CD5. Sequence analysis of expressed VHDJH genes from the CD5+ B cells present after anti-IgM stimulation revealed a high frequency of N nucleotide addition in CDR3 regions. The presence of N nucleotides indicates that these sequences were derived from CD5+ B cells of adult origin rather than from long-lived fetal precursor B cells present in either the adult bone marrow at the time of transfer or adult spleen. These experiments demonstrate conclusively that adult bone marrow contains precursors for CD5+ B cells and that unlike fetal liver-derived precursors these express terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase.
Eukaryotic Transport Control: The Turnover Years

The years 1974 to 1979 marked a transition period for Herman Kalckar. While at the Massachusetts General Hospital, he moved out of the Biochemical Research Unit into the Huntington Laboratories and, subsequently, to the Chemistry Department at Boston University. It was during this five-year period of changes in personnel and sites of research activity, a turnover period, that the “Carrier Turnover Model” for the regulation of transport in animal cells was developed. The model was designed to explain how a balance between carrier synthesis, opposed by carrier degradation, is regulated by some, as yet unknown, process of oxidative glucose metabolism. Although the process is not linked to glycolysis, it is known to require an “energized state” of the cell. The energized state is, however, not dependent on the intracellular supply of ATP. Instead, the energized state appears to be crucial to the process of carrier degradation which apparently takes place through the action of lysosomal proteinases.
The Janus‐Face of Whiteness: Toward a Cultural Sociology of White Nationalism and White Antiracism

While the sociological study of white identity has traversed many stages, its most recent turn emphasizes the contextual heterogeneity of whiteness. Because of this increased attention to context and locality, the study of whiteness has never been more amenable to cultural analysis than it is today. Hence, an emphasis on different white racial formations that span a political spectrum from conservative to liberal and racist to antiracist is now dominant. In this vein, white nationalists and white antiracists represent the distinct polarities of contemporary inquisitions into white identity formation. Motivated by this academic milieu, this article first reviews the common perception that whiteness is in ‘crisis’ and polarizing into antagonistic political projects. Second, the article scans the literature on white nationalist and white antiracist groups, making explicit the relation to cultural theory. Third, the article questions why these two groups are consistently juxtaposed against one another and how such a conceptualization hinders, rather than advances, cultural analysis. Fourth and last, the article advanced a cultural sociological framework for understanding white racial identity formation that neither collapses white identities into a monolithic collective nor reifies white formations as a static typology. Such an approach considers the general processes and contexts which produce ‘whiteness’ and give it meaning, as well as illuminates the social relationships and practices in which white racial identity formations become embedded.
Rural FFA Leadership: Understanding Members' Role and the Context of Chapter Activities.

This study sought to understand FFA leadership activities and member role in planning these activities. Qualitative research methods were used to gain insight into the perceptions of FFA members. Twelve chapters from 11 different states participated in four focus group sessions at the National FFA Convention. Youth participating in the focus group interviews provided less emphasis on youth as objects and more discussion of youth as resources and partners. More frequently youth described their roles as resources or partners. Participants could easily identify personal benefits from participation in FFA activities. As the dialogue moved to community it was more difficult for FFA members to describe benefits. Students easily described the activities which helped them develop leadership skills in the context of understanding self. The most difficult area was related to community.
Effect of radiofrequency energy delivery in proximity to metallic medical device components

Background Radiofrequency (RF) ablation of cardiac arrhythmias is often performed in the presence of metallic materials in the heart. Objectives We hypothesize that metal objects in proximity to an RF ablation source can lead to ohmic heating of surrounding tissue. Furthermore, we hypothesize that insulation of the metal can mitigate this RF effect. Methods A model consisting of viable bovine myocardium or thermochromic liquid crystal medium, a circulating saline bath at 37°C, and a load cell was used. A 4-mm RF ablation catheter was positioned with 10 g of force over bovine myocardium and placed in proximity to a copper wire, a defibrillator lead, and a circular mapping catheter. RF was applied at 30 W, and tissue temperatures were measured. Ablation near insulated and noninsulated esophageal temperature probes was also performed. Results Ablation in proximity to metal resulted in higher temperatures. Average maximum distances for observed thermal changes to >45°C for the ± lead were 5.2 ± 0.3 mm and 5.7 ± 0.4 mm when metal was interposed between the catheter and the ground electrode. Presence of an esophageal temperature probe increased temperatures in tissues adjacent to the probe and caused lesions remote to the ablation site. Esophageal probe insulation prevented these tissue temperature increases and injury to nontargeted tissues. Conclusion Effects of RF ablation are potentiated near metallic components of medical devices, leading to significant tissue heating. Further research is needed to assess the safety impact of RF in the myocardium near metallic objects, particularly esophageal temperature probes.
Experiments In Bertrand Competition With Factor Markets

We present a classroom experiment which introduces product differentiation and factor markets into the traditional Bertrand framework. We find that student behavior converges toward the market outcomes predicted by theory. We also find that the experiment enhances student understanding of Bertrand price competition in a market with product differentiation and factor markets, and also appears to increase student satisfaction.
Bird Use of Terraces in Iowa Rowcrop Fields

Abstract Bird use of terraces in rowcrop fields was evaluated during 1996–1997 in southwestern Iowa by line transect counts of birds, nest searches and nest monitoring. Twenty-six bird species were observed in terraces. Red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) and dickcissels (Spiza americana) were most abundant, accounting for 58% of the total bird abundance. Bird abundance in terraces (x = 463.0 birds/100 ha, se = 33.0) was less than that in other strip-cover habitats such as grassed waterways and roadsides, but greater than that in rowcrops. Five species nested in terraces. We found 64.8 nests/10 ha of which 76% were red-winged blackbird nests. Predation resulted in failure of 73% of all nests. The relative contribution of terraces to grassland bird conservation is minor, and changes in current terrace management practices would not likely improve conditions for birds nor be economical.
Generation and Characterization of Live Attenuated Influenza A(H7N9) Candidate Vaccine Virus Based on Russian Donor of Attenuation

Background Avian influenza A (H7N9) virus has emerged recently and continues to cause severe disease with a high mortality rate in humans prompting the development of candidate vaccine viruses. Live attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIV) are 6:2 reassortant viruses containing the HA and NA gene segments from wild type influenza viruses to induce protective immune responses and the six internal genes from Master Donor Viruses (MDV) to provide temperature sensitive, cold-adapted and attenuated phenotypes. Methodology/Principal Findings LAIV candidate A/Anhui/1/2013(H7N9)-CDC-LV7A (abbreviated as CDC-LV7A), based on the Russian MDV, A/Leningrad/134/17/57 (H2N2), was generated by classical reassortment in eggs and retained MDV temperature-sensitive and cold-adapted phenotypes. CDC-LV7A had two amino acid substitutions N123D and N149D (H7 numbering) in HA and one substitution T10I in NA. To evaluate the role of these mutations on the replication capacity of the reassortants in eggs, the recombinant viruses A(H7N9)RG-LV1 and A(H7N9)RG-LV2 were generated by reverse genetics. These changes did not alter virus antigenicity as ferret antiserum to CDC-LV7A vaccine candidate inhibited hemagglutination by homologous A(H7N9) virus efficiently. Safety studies in ferrets confirmed that CDC-LV7A was attenuated compared to wild-type A/Anhui/1/2013. In addition, the genetic stability of this vaccine candidate was examined in eggs and ferrets by monitoring sequence changes acquired during virus replication in the two host models. No changes in the viral genome were detected after five passages in eggs. However, after ten passages additional mutations were detected in the HA gene. The vaccine candidate was shown to be stable in the ferret model; post-vaccination sequence data analysis showed no changes in viruses collected in nasal washes present at day 5 or day 7. Conclusions/Significance Our data indicate that the A/Anhui/1/2013(H7N9)-CDC-LV7A reassortant virus is a safe and genetically stable candidate vaccine virus that is now available for distribution by WHO to vaccine manufacturers.
Interaction of Testosterone and Social Stimuli on the Feeding Behavior of Male Mountain Spiny Lizards, Sceloporus jarrovi

Experimental elevation of plasma testosterone during the nonbreeding season has previously been shown to reduce the survivorship of male mountain spiny lizards, Sceloporus jarrovi. The reduction in survivorship results from energetic stress caused, in part, by reduced foraging behavior. This study examines proximate explanations for this decreased foraging behavior. In particular, do testosterone-treated males engage in more social behaviors at the expense of feeding? This question was tested by observing the behavior of hormonally manipulated males in a large indoor arena in which both social and prey stimuli were present. Males were tested with social stimuli present during the nonbreeding season (male intruders, sexually unreceptive females, or a combination of male and females) and with stimuli encountered only during the breeding season (sexually receptive females). Testosterone-implanted males ate significantly fewer prey when a sexually receptive female was present, but control males did not. However, a difference in feeding was not observed in any of the nonbreeding stimulus conditions in spite of consistent increases in social behaviors, such as display frequencies. These results indicate that, although high levels of testosterone increase some aspects of social behavior, they do not necessarily lead to decreased feeding in the nonbreeding season.
The Death of Narcissus: On Musical Subjectivity

On the first page of the preface to Michael Steinberg’s excellent book, Listening to Reason: Culture, Subjectivity, and Nineteenth-Century Music, the author states that the book’s origin can be located specifically to “August 1990,” when he was giving “a short preconcert lecture on Brahms at the first Bard Music Festival.”
Apparel firms’ corporate social responsibility communications: Cases of six firms from an institutional theory perspective

Purpose – Corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication is a strategy to address companies’ goodwill to the society. Based on the institutional theory suggesting the influence of environmental factors of companies’ country-of-origins on their marketing practices, the purpose of this paper is to explore and compare the CSR communication practices of apparel firms from different countries. Design/methodology/approach – As a case study approach, this study investigates six apparel firms’ CSR communication disclosures on the official websites using a content analysis method and the Global Reporting Initiative’s categorial CSR reporting guidelines. Findings – Findings revealed that the six firms’ CSR communication adoption levels and focusses varied; the USA firms largely focussed on labor issues, while the European firms focussed on environmental issues and the Asian firms centered on social issues. Research limitations/implications – Although this study has limitations that pertain to case studies in g...
Deciphering the Dark Matter of Complex Genetic Inheritance

A multifaceted "systems genetics" strategy illuminates the relationship between genotype and coronary artery disease.
A Path Analysis of Causes and Consequences of Salespeople's Perceptions of Role Clarity:

Path analysis is used to examine the relationships among the salesperson's perceptions of performance feedback, participation, role clarity, and job satisfaction. The results of the study indicate ...
Study on mosquito resistance to common used insecticides and its control measure in Shanghai

Objective To investigate the resistance of Culex tritaeniorhynchus,Cx.pipens pallens and Aedes albopictus to three kinds of insecticides in Shanghai and provide scientific evidence for its control.Methods The dipping method recommended by WHO was used.Results Cx.tritaeniorhynchus,Cx.pipens pallens and Ae.albopictus had high resistance to dichlorvos,and the maximum resistance ratios were 430.58,79.47 and 74.81 respectively.Except that mosquito in some districts had high resistance to deltamethrin and cypermethrin,its resistance to these two insecticides had relatively low resistance in other districts.In several districts such as Huangpu district,Baoshan district and chongming district,it was even sensitive to these common used insecticides.Conclusion It is necessary for mosquito control to use insecticides scientificalhy based on its resistance.
Cross-sectional investigation on rodent infestation in different habitats in Baiyin City

Objective To master current situation of rodent infestation in different habitats in Baiyin City of Gansu Pro-vince, to provide a scientific basis for efficiently reducing density of rats. Methods Investigation on density and species of the rodents was carried out with night trapping method and rodent trace, and analyzed with descriptive epidemiologic methods.Results The average density was 10.7% with night trapping method and 29.2% with the rodent trace. There was difference in rodent density in different habitats with different monitoring methods. It was the highest up to 20.0% with the night trapping method in the suburban residential areas, and the highest to 85.0% with rodent trace in the farm product market. It was the lowest in institution units, with the dominant species of Rattus norvegicus. Conclusions The rodent infestation is severe in Baiyin City. So we should combine environmental, chemical and physical control measures to establish a working system of government leading, patriotic health office coordinating, and cooperated by relevant departments, to carry out combination between surveillance and supervision. Specialized contingent of biologic control and disinfection of vectors should be established to mobilize the masses, with the widely publicity for personal hygiene, so that everyone keeps good circulation mode of health.
Long-term administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist and dexamethasone : assessment of the adrenal role in ovarian dysfunction

Objective To examine the possible impact of abnormal adrenal steroidogenesis on the ovarian dysfunction seen in polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD). Design Prospective analysis of blood sampling monthly for 6 months, then three times weekly for 90 days. Setting Tertiary institutional outpatient care. Participants Six anovulatory women with a diagnosis of PCOD. Intervention Six-month suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) followed by suppression with dexamethasone (DEX) for 90 days. Main Outcome Measures Serum levels of testosterone (T), androstenedione (A), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), Cortisol, estradiol (E 2 ), progesterone (P), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and bioactive LH. Results Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist administration suppressed >60% of the circulating levels of T and A, suggesting an ovarian origin. Minimal changes of DHEA, DHEAS, and Cortisol were seen. With the addition of DEX, there was >90% suppression of the total circulating A, T, DHEA, DHEAS, and Cortisol, supporting the adrenal origin of the non-GnRH-a suppressible androgens. Excessive ovarian T and A secretion returned during the 90-day recovery study period in spite of rises of FSH concentrations that changed the ratio of FSH to LH in all subjects. Four of the six women failed to ovulate. In comparison of the women who did and did not ovulate during recovery, no differences in absolute levels or changes in concentrations of steroids or gonadotropins could be detected. Conclusions Using sequential and simultaneous administration of GnRH-a and DEX, we were able to delineate the contributions of the ovaries and adrenals to the abnormal steroidogenesis seen in PCOD. Despite prolonged suppression of ovarian and then adrenal steroidogenesis, ovarian dysfunction, evidenced by abnormal androgen production, returned with cessation of agonist administration.
Technique for correction of mitral insufficiency by leaflet advancement.

Summary A technique for reconstructing the mitral valve which is insufficient because of shortness of the leaflet-cord complex has been described. This procedure is not indicated for insufficiency due to primary dilatation of the annulus, or when leaflets are very thick, severely calcified, or cannot be rendered appropriately pliable by debridement. Within the confines of these anatomic restrictions, good results can be obtained. Insufficiency is corrected by adding substance to a leaflet (usually the aortic) in such manner as to advance both the free edge and the commissures. Pericardium has been used as the graft material because it is locally available, autologous, leak-proof, and has excellent conforming properties. The most important technical point in the success of this operation is adequate detachment of the leaflet from the annulus. Usually it is necessary to extend the incision slightly beyond each commissure. This enables the free edge to move down and forward, the intact commissures to turn inward, and the leaflet to engage the opposing leaflet during ventricular systole. A left chest approach has been found preferable for the performance of this procedure. Ventricular fibrillation and an apical ventricular vent are recommended for the avoidance of air embolism. Long-term anticoagulation is recommended if the atrium is very large and/or is fibrillating.
Third- and Fourth-Year Medical Students' Changing Views of Family Medicine.

Background and objectives The effect of third-year family medicine clerkships on shaping contemporary US students' knowledge and attitudes toward family medicine is not well understood. The objectives of this study were to assess third-year medical students' attitudes toward family medicine before and after a family medicine clerkship, to assess students' interest in a family medicine career before and after the clerkship, and to compare these findings to the same students' attitudes toward family medicine in the fourth year. Methods An anonymous questionnaire assessing attitudes toward family medicine was offered to 150 medical students in the class of 2011 at a geographically dispersed, community-based US medical school. Students were offered the questionnaire during their third year, on the first and last days of the required 8-week family medicine clerkship, and midway through the fourth year. Results At least 92 students completed participation at each time point (response rate 61%). Twenty-seven percent of students initially unlikely to choose family medicine as a career became interested after the clerkship. Ninety percent of those interested in family medicine maintained their interest. Attitudes toward lifestyle and compensation, family medicine's role in research, and family physician expertise significantly improved after the clerkship. However, gains in some of these areas regressed in the fourth year. Conclusions The clerkship improves students' attitudes toward, and interest in, family medicine. However, students' favorable attitudes deteriorate when they are no longer exposed to family medicine instruction. Educational practices focused on fourth-year students may be needed to support and maintain student interest in family medicine.
The Establishment of the ‘Abbāsid Dynasty

The third act in the great political drama of Islam opens with the Caliph abu-al-‘Abbās (750–54) playing the chief role. Al-‘Irāq is the stage. In his inaugural khuṭbah, delivered the preceding year in the mosque of al-Kūfah, the first ‘Abbāsid caliph referred to himself as al-saffāḥ,1 the bloodshedder, which became his sobriquet. This was ominous, since the incoming dynasty, much more than the outgoing, depended upon force in the execution of its policies. For the first time in the history of Islam the leathern spread beside the caliph’s seat, which served as a carpet for the use of the executioner, became a necessary adjunct of the imperial throne. This al-Saffāḥ became the founder of the most celebrated and longest-lived Arab dynasty in Islam, the third, after the Orthodox (Rāshidūn) and the Umayyad. From 750 to 1258 the successors of abu-al-‘Abbās reigned, though they did not always rule.
Convergence analysis of the fast sweeping method for static convex Hamilton–Jacobi equations

In this work, we study the convergence of an efficient iterative method, the fast sweeping method (FSM), for numerically solving static convex Hamilton–Jacobi equations. First, we show the convergence of the FSM on arbitrary meshes. Then we illustrate that the combination of a contraction property of monotone upwind schemes with proper orderings can provide fast convergence for iterative methods. We show that this mechanism produces different behavior from that for elliptic problems as the mesh is refined. An equivalence between the local solver of the FSM and the Hopf formula under linear approximation is also proved. Numerical examples are presented to verify our analysis.
Semantic approach to automating management of big data privacy policies

Ensuring privacy of Big Data managed on the cloud is critical to ensure consumer confidence. Cloud providers publish privacy policy documents outlining the steps they take to ensure data and consumer privacy. These documents are available as large text documents that require manual effort and time to track and manage. We have developed a semantically rich ontology to describe the privacy policy documents and built a database of several policy documents as instances of this ontology. We next extracted rules from these policy documents based on deontic logic which can be used to automate management of data privacy. In this paper we describe our ontology in detail along with the results of our analysis of privacy policies of prominent cloud services.