cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distribution theory for the analysis of binary choice under uncertainty with nonparametric estimation of expectations

Abstract In analyzing discrete choice under uncertainty, the practice has been to specify expectations and preferences up to a finite-dimensional parameter. Recently, Manski proved the consistency of a two-stage, semiparametric estimator applicable if expectations are fulfilled and are conditioned only on variables observed by the researcher. The first stage estimates expectations nonparametrically, and the second stage uses choice data and the expectations estimate to make parametric, quasi-maximum-likelihood inference on preferences. This paper proves that the estimate of preference parameters converges at rate √ N to a limiting normal distribution if the expectations estimate is chosen appropriately. The estimate is √ N -asymptotically unbiased. Its asymptotic variance exceeds the inverted Fisher information for the preference parameter.
Correction of Review of THE NATURE AND EVOLUTION OF FEMALE SEXUALITY

75:998-1000, 1973) reflect differences in theoretical approach, I feel that two statements are sufficiently inaccurate to require clarification. Having translated an earlier work (Ribeiro 1968, 1971), and known the author for twenty years, I feel qualified to speak on Ribeiro's behalf. First, it is important to know that Portuguese is a very flexible language and that Darcy Ribeiro exploits its potentialities to the fullest. His books are consequently difficult to translate into English, and the translators of this volume, not being anthropologists, feared to distort his ideas if they departed from a rather literal rendition. The hybrid terms to which Weiss objects are one result; the complicated sentence structure is another. What is exquisite and readily intelligible Portuguese may become "turbid prose filled with obfuscating terminology," for which the author cannot be blamed. Second, and more importantly, the book was not written as "a defense of Ribeiro's
Siderophile-enriched sediments from the Cretaceous–Tertiary boundary

Siderophilic element concentrations are high in sediments from the Cretaceous–Tertiary boundary. An extraterrestrial source is indicated. Concentrations are too high to be understood in terms of the impact of a chondritic asteroid. Either the projectile was a metal-sulphide core or the infailing material (probably weak cometary matter) was slowed down during atmospheric passage.
In search of authenticity: a case examination of the transformation of Alabama's Langdale Cotton Mill into an industrial heritage tourism attraction

Difficult economic conditions, competition, or the decline of once thriving industries have inflicted serious damage to rural areas in many parts of the world. The USA has not been immune to these events, and the current economic climate has only exacerbated the existing problems. Apart from the industries and businesses that were forced to close their operations, former employees, their families, and even their communities are left behind with little hope of recovery. Some affected communities turn to other means to alleviate economic distress. In fact, while not a panacea to solve existing problems, some communities are considering or have even implemented tourism-related projects in an attempt to revive themselves and their surroundings. The present study explores the current development of one such project, the Langdale Mill in Valley, Alabama. To collect information about this proposed industrial heritage site, face-to-face interviews with the mill's project management were conducted. The interviews ...
The child with Graves disease.

Hyperthyroidism is a rare but serious disease in children (Leger & Carel, 2013; Namwongprom, Unachak, Dejkamron, Ua-apisitwong, & Ekmahachai, 2013), characterized by overactivity of the thyroid gland that leads to elevation in circulating total and free thyroxine (T4) and tri-iodothyronine (T3) hormone levels, as well as metabolic acceleration in peripheraltissues.Physicalmanifestationsincludeacceleration of metabolic systems with symptoms such as thyroid goiter, feeling of fullness inthe throat, and difficulty swallowing. The child may exhibit irritability, anxiety, restlessness, or fatigue with inability to sleep. Increased appetite with weight loss and diarrhea may be present. The child has warm skin and heat intolerance. Academic performance may decline. Untreated hyperthyroidism has a negative metabolic effect on all body systems with tachycardia, hypertension, fever, and altered mental status and can lead to death (Bahn et al., 2011). Causes Hyperthyroidism is most commonly caused by Graves disease (GD), with a yearly incidence of approximately 1 per 100,000 (Breuer, Tuggle, Solomon, & Sosa, 2013). Other causes include McCune–Albright syndrome, a rare genetic condition (Tessaris et al., 2012), and neonatal hyperthyroidism caused by transfer of maternal thyroid antibodies across the placenta (Leger & Carel, 2013). This review is limited to a discussion of GD. GD is a benign, autoimmune thyroid condition resulting from thyrotropin (TSH) receptor stimulation by autoantibodies, is more common in females, and occurs most often in adolescence. Children who have other autoimmune diseases and those with family history of autoimmune disease are at a higher risk. While the exact cause is unknown, there is an interaction among genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and the immune system (Leger & Carel, 2013). Production of TSH-receptor antibodies stimulates the thyroid gland to produce excess thyroid hormone and has metabolic effects on every body and organ system. Children with GD have exophthalmos (protruding eyes), in addition to other signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN THE STRUCTURE AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF CORTICOTROPIN AND RELATED PEPTIDES: ALTERATIONS IN THE N-TERMINAL SERINE.

Several peptides in which the N-terminal serine of corticotropin has been altered have been assayed relative to unaltered corticotropin A1 for their biological activities, both adrenal and extra-adrenal. The adrenal activities assayed were in vivo steroidogenesis in 24-hr hypophysectomized rats and in vitro steroidogenesis by quartered rat adrenals. The in vitro release of free fatty acids by rat epididymal adipose tissue and the hypoglycemic effect in the intact mouse were the extra-adrenal activities assayed. Oxidative deamination of the free a-amino group by periodate was accompanied by a reduction of in vitro steroidogenic and lipolytic activity to 10%. in vivo steroidogenesis was more markedly reduced (to 1–2%) while in vivo hypoglycemia was greater than expected (32 %). Replacement of the N-terminal serine by an N-terminal glycine did not alter any of the measured activities. N-acetylation of the terminal serine resulted in a peptide which caused a marked reduction in all the activities studied. Thu...
Proteolytic Enzymes in Seminal Plasma of Domestic Turkey (Meleagris Gallopavo)

Protease and basic amidase activity was found in the seminal plasma of the domestic turkey. Amidase activity, measured through use of N-alpha-benzoyl-DL-arginine-p-nitroanilide-HCL (BAPNA), was 23-28 times greater for turkey than for guinea fowl or chicken. Within the reproductive tract, seminal plasma from the vas deferens had much greater activity than testicular or epididymal fluids. Turkey seminal plasma enzyme (TSPE) purified by chromatography or isoelectric focusing showed three protein bands by PAGE, each resolving on SDS-PAGE into two subunits with molecular weights of approximately 28,000-32,000 and 38,000-44,000. One of the three proteins also contained a larger subunit (M(r) 76,000-81,000) thought to be transferrin. Turkey acrosin consisted of three subunits with molecular weights below 20,500. Acrosin, but not TSPE, was visualized in native gels with N-alpha-benzoyl-DL-arginine-beta-naphthylamide (BANA)/Fast Garnet stain. Michaelis constants (BAPNA) for TSPE, acrosin, and trypsin were 2.41 +/- 0.12 x 10(-4) M (n = 5), 4.96-6.03 x 10(-4) M (n = 2), and 6.76 +/- 0.95 x 10(-4) M (n = 6), respectively. TSPE, like acrosin and trypsin, was inhibited by benzamidine but not iodoacetamide. While all natural trypsin inhibitors tested inhibited acrosin, TSPE was not inhibited by ovomucoid from chicken or turkey egg white.
The correlation of slow crack growth in linear polyethylene by the J-integral

Abstract The fracture of a polyethylene (PE) homopolymer by slow crack growth was measured with a three point bending (TPB) specimen and a single edge notch tension (SENT) specimen. The crack growth rate correlated with the stress intensity for each type of specimen. However, for a given K, SENT specimens exhibited a faster crack growth rate than TPB specimens. Since PE is non-linear, the J-integral is more appropriate than K and it was found that J does correlate the SENT and TPB results. In addition, the degree of non-linearity of the PE was increased by quenching. For the quenched state it was also found that J correlated the SENT and TPB results in accordance with the dependence of J on the degree of non-linearity of the material.
NEONATAL MATERNAL SEPARATION EXACERBATES THE REWARD-ENHANCING EFFECT OF ACUTE AMPHETAMINE ADMINISTRATION AND THE ANHEDONIC EFFECT OF REPEATED SOCIAL DEFEAT IN ADULT RATS

Early life adversity or parental neglect is linked to the development of a number of psychiatric illnesses, including major depression and substance use disorder. These two disorders are often comorbid and characterized by anhedonia, defined as the reduced ability to experience pleasure or reward. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of neonatal maternal separation in Long Evans rats, a model of early life stress, on anhedonia under baseline conditions and in response to drug and stress exposure during adulthood. Three hours of daily maternal separation from postnatal day 1 to 14 led to marked decreases in arched-back nursing, licking, and grooming of pups by their dams. In adulthood, brain reward function was assessed using intracranial self-stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus. Lowered current thresholds derived from this procedure are interpreted as reward-enhancing effects, whereas elevations in thresholds are an operational measure of anhedonia. Maternally separated rats did not exhibit anhedonia under baseline conditions compared with non-handled controls but exhibited a greater reward-enhancing effect of acute amphetamine administration. Acute social defeat produced anhedonia in non-handled controls, but not in maternally separated rats. Conversely, control rats habituated to 7 days of repeated social defeat, whereas maternally separated rats developed an increased anhedonic response to the repeated stressor. One week after termination of stress exposure, maternally separated rats still exhibited an increased reward-enhancing effect of acute amphetamine administration compared with non-handled controls, regardless of prior social defeat experience. These data indicate that early life stress increases the reward-enhancing properties of amphetamine, protects against the anhedonic effects of acute stress exposure, and exacerbates the anhedonic response to repeated stress. Thus, early life stress may increase an individual's vulnerability to depressive or addictive disorders when confronted with stress or drug challenge in adulthood.
Neuropsychology of multiple sclerosis: a critical review

Abstract Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a relatively common, chronic progressive neurological illness affecting individuals primarily in the third and fourth decades of life. Autopsy studies indicate that the disease preferentially attacks white matter throughout the CNS, including the cerebral hemispheres. This article reviews the current state of knowledge regarding cognitive dysfunction in MS and relates these findings to neuropathological changes. The view that affective disturbance may also result from cerebral demyelination is presented, along with a brief discussion of MS as a prototype “subcortical” dementia. Finally, methodological problems intrinsic to the study of MS are presented, and suggestions for future research are made.
PIK3CA-AKT pathway mutations in micropapillary breast carcinoma

Summary Micropapillary carcinoma of the breast is associated with increased rates of lymph node metastasis and lymphovascular invasion. While activating point mutations in PIK3CA (encoding phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase catalytic subunit) or AKT1 are found in 25% to 30% of invasive ductal carcinomas, the mutational profile of invasive micropapillary carcinomas has not been characterized in detail. Micropapillary carcinomas, concurrent metastatic and precursor breast lesions from 19 patients were identified. Lesional tissue was punched from paraffin-tissue blocks, and genomic DNA was extracted and screened for a large panel of known hotspot mutations using multiplex polymerase chain reaction and mass-spectroscopy analysis (643 mutations in 53 genes). Hotspot point mutations were identified in 35% (7/20) of micropapillary breast carcinomas, including PIK3CA exons 7, 9 and 20 hotspots, as well as the AKT1 plekstrin homology domain mutation (E17K); mutations in TP53 and KRAS were each found in a single patient. In 6 patients, micropapillary and non-micropapillary components of the same tumor were separately tested, yielding concordant results in five; one had a wild type micropapillary component, but a PIK3CA mutation in the invasive ductal component. Concurrent lymph node metastases were mostly wild type (2/8 mutant). Accompanying ductal carcinoma in situ had point mutations in 45% (5/11), mostly concordant with invasive carcinoma; however, mutational status of other breast proliferative lesions was generally discordant with accompanying carcinoma. The rate of PIK3CA mutations in this series of micropapillary carcinomas is similar to invasive ductal carcinomas; however, there may be an enrichment of AKT1 mutations (10%). The non-micropapillary components and precursor lesions occasionally had different mutations.
Attempted recruitment of leukemic myeloblasts to proliferative activity by sequential drug treatment

Thirty adults with active AML were randomly assigned to treatment with a sequence of cyclophosphamide (CY), 15 mg/kg IV, vincristine (VCR) 0.025 mg/kg IV given 24 hours later, and a 48-hour IV infusion of arabinosyl cytosine (ara-C) begun 12 hours after VCR(CVC), or 4 doses of CY, 25 mg/kg IV given on successive days. Two courses of each therapy were repeated at 14-day intervals providing sufficient recovery of normal marrow elements. Both regimens induced remissions. The overall complete response rate was 50%. 3H-thymidine (3H-TdR) and 3H-arabinosylcytosine (3H-ara-C) labeling indices of tumor cells were performed before treatment. High labeling indices for both compounds correlated with clinical responsiveness, but a high index for either compound alone was insufficient. Sequential labeling studies were completed in 9 patients with high density tumor (marrow replacement) treated with CVC. There was no consistent increase in 3H-TdR or 3H-ara-G labeling indices 24 hours after CY.
Mechanosensitive production of reactive oxygen species in endothelial and smooth muscle cells: role in microvascular remodeling?

Changes in the hemodynamic environment (e.g., hypertension, increased blood flow/shear stress) are known to lead to vascular remodeling; however, the underlying mechanisms by which hemodynamic forces control gene expression in vascular cells are not yet completely understood. This review considers how mechanosensitive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by NAD(P)H oxidases and other sources interacts with downstream signaling systems [including activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and AP-1] that modulate the phenotype of endothelial and smooth muscle cells, leading to vascular remodeling. We propose a model for an interaction between direct mechanosensitive ROS signaling and pathways activated by pressure-induced upregulation of prooxidant paracrine signaling mechanisms [local renin–angiotensin system, TNF-α– converting enzyme (TACE)/tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) system, and endothelin signaling].
The ocular response of human newborns to intermittent visual movement.

Abstract Two experiments were designed to assess the human newborn's ocular response to intermittent visual movement created by sequentially illuminated lights. In Experiment 1, photographs were made of 18 S s' eyes when they were presented a stationary light centered in front of the eyes, a blinking center light, and a repeating series of three horizontal lights (right, center, left, center, etc.). In Experiment 2, 18 S s were presented the same repeating series of horizontal lights at three different light durations. In both experiments, the two eyes generally did not converge upon one place; the left eye looked left of the center of the field, while the right eye looked right of center. Conjugate eye movements occurred about 45–50% of the time in all stimulus conditions. Every S in both experiments responded to the lights' movement by shifting direction of gaze toward the left light when it went on and toward the right light when it went on. The joint occurrence of nonconvergence and frequent conjugate eye movements may explain the absence of a strong shift tendency toward the center light. Only 5 S s followed the lights across the stimulus field. Rate of intermittent visual movement within the limits tested here was not critical for newborn ocular responding.
Molecular Biology of Atherosclerosis

At least 468 individual genes have been manipulated by molecular methods to study their effects on the initiation, promotion, and progression of atherosclerosis. Most clinicians and many investigators, even in related disciplines, find many of these genes and the related pathways entirely foreign. Medical schools generally do not attempt to incorporate the relevant molecular biology into their curriculum. A number of key signaling pathways are highly relevant to atherogenesis and are presented to provide a context for the gene manipulations summarized herein. The pathways include the following: the insulin receptor (and other receptor tyrosine kinases); Ras and MAPK activation; TNF-α and related family members leading to activation of NF-κB; effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on signaling; endothelial adaptations to flow including G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and integrin-related signaling; activation of endothelial and other cells by modified lipoproteins; purinergic signaling; control of leukocyte adhesion to endothelium, migration, and further activation; foam cell formation; and macrophage and vascular smooth muscle cell signaling related to proliferation, efferocytosis, and apoptosis. This review is intended primarily as an introduction to these key signaling pathways. They have become the focus of modern atherosclerosis research and will undoubtedly provide a rich resource for future innovation toward intervention and prevention of the number one cause of death in the modern world.
Sonographic Piezoelectric Lithotripsy: More Bang for your Buck

The four major components required in any lithotripter are an energy source to generate the shock wave, a focusing device to focus the shock wave toward the focal point, a coupling medium to couple the shock wave to the patient, and a stone localization system to allow the focal point of the shock wave to be aligned precisely on the stone. The development of second-generation lithotripters has resulted in modifications of these four lithotripsy components. All second-generation machines have done away with the large water bath first used by Dornier in the HM3 device, and all new models utilize either a fluid-filled membrane or a small pool of degassed water.
Conformational origin of glassy-state relaxation and ductility in aromatic polycarbonates

Abstract A new two-state conformational transition is proposed to explain the large, low-temperature mechanical loss peak seen in glassy polycarbonates. Restricted Hartree Fock ab initio calculations at the 6–31G∗∗ level for diphenyl carbonate (DPC), a key model compound of bisphenol-A polycarbonate, reveal two inequivalent trans-trans carbonate-ring conformations both of which will exist in solution, melt or glassy states. These calculations appear to be the first high level ones (with full geometry optimization) reported for DPC, and the findings are consistent with earlier ab initio results for phenyl formate and other smaller model compounds and also with single-crystal X-ray data for DPC and oligomers. In addition to a trans-trans conformer of DPC with both phenyl rings on the same side of the carbonate unit (called the ‘syn’ conformer) which is seen in the crystalline state of DPC, an ‘anti’ conformer of lower energy is found, which has its two phenyl rings located on opposite sides of the plane of the carbonate unit. Analysis of these calculated ground state geometries and energies as well as experimental single crystal X-ray results indicates that the ‘anti’ conformer has the lowest energy in the gas phase and solution, while the ‘syn’ conformation is stabilized relative to the ‘anti’ in the bulk, probably because of aromatic ring interactions between neighbour chain segments. In the glassy state of either DPC or polycarbonate, one expects a nearly random mixture of ‘syn/anti’ conformers, and the prominent low-temperature mechanical loss peak observed in many polycarbonates is consistent with a molecular level two-state process consisting of ‘syn/ anti’ carbonate conformer conversions. These conformational transitions must involve rotation and translation of both the carbonate units and, most importantly, the neighbouring phenyl groups. The possible influence of these conformational changes and the accompanying correlated molecular motions on polymer ductility and ageing is briefly discussed.
Ibuprofen interference in the determination of 3-phenoxybenzoic acid in urine

Pyrethroid insecticides are widely used in agriculture and private households. Analysis of urine for pyrethroid metabolites is one way to detect human exposure to these insecticides and is carried out regularly as part of the Occupational and Environmental Medicine Monitoring Program recommended by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG). Samples are analyzed using GC-MS (selected ion monitoring) following acid hydrolysis, solid phase extraction, esterification with methanol/sulfuric acid, and liquid-liquid extraction. The metabolite, 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA), can be derived from several pyrethroids and is, therefore, a useful diagnostic analyte; however, the presence of the over-the-counter drug, ibuprofen ((R,S)-2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propionic acid), interferes with this determination, even after the ingestion of only one 200-mg tablet. The interfering analyte is carboxy-ibuprofen which is not removed by the cleanup step. Experimental work shows that it takes two days for most of the ibuprofen to clear the body before 3-PBA can reliably be determined in urine.
Ocean analysis by means of Beer's law.

A method for applying Beer’s law to the analysis of ocean or lake water is described. The method makes use of measurements of daylight irradiance for studying the quantum efficiency of in situ photosynthesis by phytoplankton populations. Alternatively, the method can make use of in situ beam transmittance measurements for monochromatic studies of ocean contaminants.
Diffusion tensor imaging and tractography of the kidney in children: feasibility and preliminary experience

Background Functional magnetic resonance urography (fMRU) provides morphological and functional information based on perfusion. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) complements fMRU by measuring renal microstructure and provides insight into the relationship between renal structure and function.
Time and temperature effects on the fracture toughness of rigid poly(vinylchloride) pipe materials

The fracture toughness of rigid poly(vinylchloride) pipe materials has been investigated over a range of temperatures and rates. Conditions are described for valid fracture toughness (KIC) tests and notch insensitive (ductile) behavior; time-temperature effects on transitions in KIC are defined. The modes of crack extension are characterized over a range of temperatures, and the mechanisms of crack resistance are discussed, including some quantitative data for the yielded zone at the crack tip.
Theory of quantum solids: Effect of lattice symmetry and anisotropy in the pair-correlation function

The theory of quantum solids by Lowy and Woo employs a Hartree-Jastrow wave function in which the Hartree product, thus the wave function, is given its proper exchange symmetry. Coupled integral equations were derived for the one- and two-particle distribution functions, which enter into the energy expression. On account of mathematical and computational complications, the two-particle distribution function was not obtained from actually solving the integral equations. Instead, it was approximated by a product of two one-particle distribution functions with the pair-correlation function for the liquid. The latter lacks the proper lattice symmetry, and is not anisotropic. In this paper, we take into account the effects of both lattice symmetry and anisotropy on the pair-correlation function, solve the coupled integral equations to higher orders, and recalculate the energy curves. It is shown that lattice symmetry in the pair-correlation function lowers the liquid-to-solid transition density by about 2%, while anisotropy raises it by about 7%.
Optical tomography system based on second-differential spectroscopy for small animal brain study

8-Channel broadband spectroscopy and tomography CCD system was designed and frequency domain reconstruction was applied to get both absorption and scattering images at two wavelengths based on the second-differential spectroscopy analysis of CW data.
Lymphocele after pelvic lymphadenectomy for urologic cancer

Pelvic lymphadenectomy is used widely for staging prostatic or bladder carcinoma. In 9 of 187 patients (4.7 per cent) who underwent bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy for urologic cancer pelvic lymphocele diveloped. The management of these patients is presented along with review of causes, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment. Pelvic CT scan is a noninvasive modality which aids in the diagnosis of this complication. Minidose heparin used for prophylaxis of thromboembolic complications may increase lymphocele formation.
Sedimentation field flow fractionation: applications.

Sedimentation field flow fractionation is a powerful, new, high-resolution separation method for a wide variety of colloids, micelles, particulates, and soluble macromolecules of biological interest. Advances in instrumentation allow sedimentation field flow fractionation operation with rotor speeds up to 32,000 revolutions per minute (∼85,000 gravities), which permits separation of materials as small as 5 x 105 molecular weight, depending on sample density. Compared to conventional centrifugation techniques, the gentle, mass-separating sedimentation field flow fractionation method is capable of higher resolution in shorter times.
Association between vaginal 70-kd heat shock protein, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, and microbial flora in mid trimester pregnant women.

Objective This study investigated the association among the inducible 70-kd heat shock protein, cytokines, and microbial flora in the vagina in mid trimester pregnant women and subsequent preterm delivery. Study design Vaginal samples from 205 pregnant women, which were collected at 18 to 22 weeks of gestation, were analyzed for qualitative and quantitative vaginal microflora and for 70-kd heat shock protein, interleukin-1β, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, and tumor necrosis factor-α by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Pregnancy outcome data were obtained subsequently. Results The 70-kd heat shock protein was detected in 38 vaginal samples (18.5%). Its presence was associated with elevated vaginal pH, a diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis, and elevated interleukin-1 receptor antagonist levels (P 80% increase in median vaginal concentration of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (P Conclusion Vaginal 70-kd heat shock protein expression is associated with the down-regulation of the proinflammatory immune response to abnormal vaginal flora in mid trimester pregnant women.
The efficacy of performing red cell elution studies in the pretransfusion testing of patients with positive direct antiglobulin tests

In order to evaluate the efficacy of performing red cell elutions in pretransfusion testing, the serologic records of 638 patients with positive direct antiglobulin tests (DAT) were reviewed. These patients were identified by routine antibody screening procedures that included an autologous control. DAT results on the red cells of these patients showed 279 with IgG and C3d sensitization, 319 with IgG alone, and 40 with C3d sensitization alone. Of 638 patients' red cell eluates, 401 demonstrated no reactivity, 154 demonstrated panagglutination, and 60 demonstrated passively acquired anti-A,B. Only 23 of 638 patients had alloantibody sensitization of their red cells. Of the 23, 19 had serum antibody corresponding to the specificity of antibody detected in the eluate. Thus, only four of 638 (0.6%) eluates gave results unavailable by serum testing alone. This study indicates that routine eluate investigation provides little useful information in assuring compatibility. Serum antibody testing and careful review of the clinical and transfusion history constitute appropriate pretransfusion testing in patients with positive direct antiglobulin tests. Eluate testing should be restricted to cases in which immune hemolysis is suspected clinically.
Environment-Specific Rates and Biases of Technical Change in Agriculture

In developing countries, growth rates of agricultural technology exhibit wide variation across environments because of heterogeneity of land quality. Technical change analyses employing aggregate data typically capture this information very imperfectly, because observation units rarely coincide with areas of environmental uniformity. The author presents a model permitting environment-specific variation in the rate and factor bias of technical change when information on environmental qualities is limited. An application using Philippine data reveals substantial discrepancies between stylized irrigated and nonirrigated areas in the rate and biases of technical change. Implications of these differences for employment growth and income distribution are analyzed.
Effective mass suppression upon complete spin-polarization in an isotropic two-dimensional electron system

We measure the effective mass $({m}^{\ensuremath{\ast}})$ of interacting two-dimensional electrons confined to a 4.5-nm-wide AlAs quantum well. The electrons in this well occupy a single out-of-plane conduction-band valley with an isotropic in-plane Fermi contour. When the electrons are partially spin polarized, ${m}^{\ensuremath{\ast}}$ is larger than its band value and increases as the density is reduced. However, as the system is driven to full spin-polarization via the application of a strong parallel magnetic field, ${m}^{\ensuremath{\ast}}$ is suppressed down to values near or even below the band mass. Our results are consistent with the previously reported measurements on wide AlAs quantum wells where the electrons occupy an in-plane valley with an anisotropic Fermi contour and effective mass, and suggest that the effective mass suppression upon complete spin-polarization is a genuine property of interacting two-dimensional electrons.
Isomorphism of åkermanite and strontio-gehlenite

Abstract Phase equilibrium relations within the system akermanite with strontio-gehlenite were investigated by solid state reaction techniques at 1250° C. Strontio-gehlenite is completely isomorphous with akermanite. The tetragonal parameters of the solid solutions of the system are linear functions of molar compositions. The observed parameter changes for the system are compatible with the mechanism of isomorphous replacement (2Ca 2+ + Mg 2+ + Si 4+ ⇌ 2Sr 2+ + 2Al 3+ ) proposed for the solid solution series.
Probing the Catalytic Mechanism of S-Ribosylhomocysteinase (LuxS) with Catalytic Intermediates and Substrate Analogues

S-Ribosylhomocysteinase (LuxS) cleaves the thioether bond in S-ribosylhomocysteine (SRH) to produce homocysteine (Hcys) and 4,5-dihydroxy-2,3-pentanedione (DPD), the precursor of the type II bacterial quorum sensing molecule (AI-2). The catalytic mechanism of LuxS comprises of three distinct reaction steps. The first step involves carbonyl migration from the C1 carbon of ribose to C2 and the formation of a 2-ketone intermediate. The second step shifts the C=O group from C2 to C3 position to produce a 3-ketone intermediate. In the final step, the 3-ketone intermediate undergoes a β-elimination reaction resulting in the cleavage of the thioether bond. In this work, the 3-ketone intermediate was chemically synthesized and shown to be chemically and kinetically competent in the LuxS catalytic pathway. Substrate analogues halogenated at the C3 position of ribose were synthesized and acted as time-dependent inhibitors of LuxS. The time dependence was caused by enzyme-catalyzed elimination of halide ions. Examination of the kinetics of halide release and decay of the 3-ketone intermediate catalyzed by wild-type and mutant LuxS enzymes revealed that Cys-84 is the general base responsible for proton abstraction in the three reaction steps, whereas Glu-57 likely facilitates substrate binding and proton transfer during catalysis.
After the bomb drops: a new look at radiation-induced multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).

Purpose: There is increasing concern that, since the Cold War era, there has been little progress regarding the availability of medical countermeasures in the event of either a radiological or nuclear incident. Fortunately, since much is known about the acute consequences that are likely to be experienced by an exposed population, the probability of survival from the immediate hematological crises after total body irradiation (TBI) has improved in recent years. Therefore focus has begun to shift towards later down-stream effects, seen in such organs as the gastrointestinal tract (GI), skin, and lung. However, the mechanisms underlying therapy-related normal tissue late effects, resulting from localised irradiation, have remained somewhat elusive and even less is known about the development of the delayed syndrome seen in the context of whole body exposures, when it is likely that systemic perturbations may alter tissue microenvironments and homeostasis.Conclusions: The sequence of organ failures observed ...
Polyphyly and hidden species among Hawaiʻi’s dominant mesophotic coral genera, Leptoseris and Pavona (Scleractinia: Agariciidae)

Widespread polyphyly in stony corals (order Scleractinia) has prompted efforts to revise their systematics through approaches that integrate molecular and micromorphological evidence. To date, these approaches have not been comprehensively applied to the dominant genera in mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) because several species in these genera occur primarily at depths that are poorly explored and from which sample collections are limited. This study is the first integrated morphological and molecular systematic analysis of the genera Leptoseris and Pavona to examine material both from shallow-water reefs ( 60 m). Skeletal and tissue samples were collected throughout the Hawaiian Archipelago between 2-127 m. A novel mitochondrial marker (cox1-1-rRNA intron) was sequenced for 70 colonies, and the micromorphologies of 94 skeletons, plus selected type material, were analyzed. The cox1-1-rRNA intron resolved 8 clades, yet Leptoseris and Pavona were polyphyletic. Skeletal micromorphology, especially costal ornamentation, showed strong correspondence and discrete differences between mitochondrial groups. One putative new Leptoseris species was identified and the global depth range of the genus Pavona was extended to 89 m, suggesting that the diversity of mesophotic scleractinians has been underestimated. Examination of species' depth distributions revealed a pattern of depth zonation: Species common in shallow-water were absent or rare >40 m, whereas others occurred only >60 m. These patterns emphasize the importance of integrated systematic analyses and more comprehensive sampling by depth in assessing the connectivity and diversity of MCEs.
Psychosocial issues in adolescents with cancer

Cancer in adolescents is uncommon and when it occurs raises a number of unique challenges for both the patient and their families. Adolescence is a period of time of significant physical and emotional changes and a diagnosis of cancer during this time has a major impact on their psychological and physical development. In this review we will look at the psychosocial issues facing adolescents who have cancer. We will address adolescent development, issues related to informed consent and assent, initial responses to the diagnosis of cancer, quality of life and the experience of the adolescent with cancer, psychological adjustment, support systems, body image issues, sexuality, education, hope, and treatment compliance.
Estrogen Receptor-Mediated Repression of Target Genes: Mechanism of Action, and Biological Significance.

Estrogen-bound estrogen receptor (ER) can regulate the transcription of a large number of genes. Although estrogen represses as many genes as it induces, induction has been studied in detail while the repression mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study we characterized several estrogen-repressed ERα target genes that are directly repressed by estrogen in breast cancer cells. Interestingly, many repressed genes are tumor suppressor genes, playing critical roles in cell cycle inhibition and/or apoptosis. One gene that particularly piqued our interest is Reprimo (RPRM) because of its robust repression in a number of cell lines, and its role as a cell cycle inhibitor. Additionally, it is highly methylated in a variety of cancers including breast cancer and maps to a locus that displays loss of heterozygosity, suggesting that it may be a tumor suppressor gene. As a result, E2-mediated repression of this gene may be a crucial step in the progression of breast cancer. We did show that RPRM decrease (by siRNA) enhances estrogen-mediated S-phase entry, strongly suggesting a biological role of its repression. RPRM was actively and strongly repressed by estrogen and this repression was not due to a quicker turnover of the RPRM mRNA by estrogen. E2-mediated repression of RPRM levels did not require new protein synthesis since it is also repressed in the presence of the translation inhibitor, cycloheximide. We find that estrogen repression of RPRM requires a tripartite interplay between ERα, FoxA1, and HDAC7 as knockdown of these proteins abrogates its repression. Remarkably, silencing of HDAC7 significantly relieved repression of the majority of eleven estrogen-repressed genes tested. Further examination of the interplay between HDAC7 and ERα revealed that HDAC7 can interact with ERα and repress its transcriptional activity in a deacetylase-independent manner. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays demonstrate that ERα, FoxA1, and HDAC7 are all recruited to a cis-regulatory enhancer (-4.8 kb) in the RPRM gene in the presence of estrogen, which was associated with a release of RNA Pol II from the proximal promoter. Repression requires FoxA1 to be recruited to an epigenetic signature characterized by H3K4 mono- and di-methylation. In summary, we have uncovered a unique requirement for a deacetylase-independent function of HDAC7 in estrogen repression of genes such as RPRM. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 4136.
Thermodynamics of the conversion of aqueous xylose to xylulose.

Abstract The thermodynamics of the conversion of aqueous xylose to xylulose has been investigated using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and microcalorimetry. The reaction was carried out in aqueous phosphate buffer over the pH range 6.8–7.4 using solubilized glucose isomerase with MgSO 4 as a cofactor. The temperature range over which this reaction was investigated was 298.15–342.15 K. A combined analysis of both the HPLC and microcalorimetric data leads to the following results at 298.15 K for the conversion process: Δ G ° = 4389 ± 31 J mol −1 , Δ H ° = 16090 ± 670 J mol −1 , and Δ C p ° = 40 ± 23 J mol −1 K −1 . The temperature dependence of the equilibrium constant for the reaction is expressed as R ln K = −4389/298.15 +16090[(1/298.15)-(1/ T )]+40[(298.15/ T )-1 + ln( T /298.15)]. Comparisons are made with literature data.
Parameterized and approximation algorithms for maximum agreement forest in multifurcating trees

We study parameterized algorithms and approximation algorithms for the maximum agreement forest problem, which, for two given leaf-labeled trees, is to find a maximum forest that is a subgraph of both trees. The problem was motivated by research in phylogenetics. For parameterized algorithms, while the problem is known to be fixed-parameter tractable for binary trees, it was an open problem whether the problem is still fixed-parameter tractable for general trees. We resolve this open problem by developing an O ( 3 k n ) -time parameterized algorithm for general trees. Our techniques on tree structures also lead to a polynomial-time approximation algorithm of ratio 3 for the problem, giving the first constant-ratio approximation algorithm for general trees.
Computer‐assisted morphometry: Point, intersection, and profile counting and three‐dimensional reconstruction

The use of computers in morphometry can involve (1) automated image analysis, semiautomated image analysis and point, intersection, intercept and profile counts of two-dimensional images on tissue sections with mathematical extrapolation to the third dimension, (2) direct measurement of volumes, surfaces, lengths, and curvature using x,y,z coordinates of serial sectioned images, or (3) stereologic techniques and serial sections which is a combination of 1 and 2 above. Automated and semiautomated image analysis are generally restricted to specimens that are characterized by differential contrast such as interalveolar septa in the lung or histochemically stained mucous granules in pulmonary epithelium. Point, intersection, and profile counts using hand-held, notebook PCs, portable PCs, or standard PCs and MS-DOS—based application programs are extremely efficient, precise, affordable, and convenient methods of quantitating average values of a population. When morphometric measurements of individual structures are required, computer-assisted three-dimensional reconstruction using x,y,z coordinates of the surface outline from serial sections is a tedious yet precise method. We describe a computer program that efficiently estimates mean caliper diameter, volume, and surface area with less than five percent error with five sections per structure. We also describe a program that does digital image subtraction on serial sections, superimposes digitally generated test systems on biological images, and accumulates point, intersection, and profile counts using a Macintosh II series computer. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Electron-electron double resonance (ELDOR) with a loop-gap resonator

Abstract Electron-electron double-resonance (ELDOR) experiments on nitroxide-radical-spin-labeled liposomes have been performed using a loop-gap resonator. The signal-to-noise ratio expressed on a molarity basis is 20-fold over the best that has been achieved using a bimodal cavity. This improvement permits ELDOR experiments on spin-labeled plasma membranes of intact cells, as illustrated by a prototype experiment on red blood cells labeled with stearic acid spin label. Moreover, 20 times greater pumping energy density at the sample is achievable for a given incident pump power, permitting ELDOR experiments on less readily saturated systems. Pump and observing frequencies are introduced directly into the loop-gap resonator, which has a relatively low Q , and the pump electron paramagnetic resonance signal is isolated from the receiver using a high Q trap microwave filter.
Activation and deactivation of glassy carbon electrodes

Abstract A procedure is described for treating glassy carbon to create an active electrode. For the first time, a level of activity comparable to that of active Pt has been attained. This was determined by the heterogeneous electron transfer rate (0.14±0.01 cm/s) of ferri-/ferro-cyanide. The possible factors in the activation of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE), such as electrode surface cleanliness, roughness and functional groups were studied. However, the GCE was found to deactivate with time; the rate of this deactivation appeared to correlate with the loss rate of hydrogen adsorption/desorption sites at Pt. These results suggest that impurity adsorption played an important role in the deactivation. In addition to assessing the level of activity via the ferri-/ferro-cyanide redox probe, the monitoring of electroactive surface functionalities by differential pulse voltammetry is proposed as a diagnostic for the validation of electrode preparation steps.
Review of “Soka Education: For the Happiness of the Individual”

Daisaku Ikeda (2010). (Rev. ed.). Santa Monica, CA: Middleway Press. $14.95, paperback, ISBN: 978-0-9779245-5-4. Imagine a world in which the goal of education is the realization of happiness; in w...
Calcium Antagonists Should Continue to Be Used for First-Line Treatment of Hypertension

OVER THEpast 20 years, calcium antagonists have emerged as one of the most attractive and widely used classes of antihypertensive agents. This is attributable to several features that include their efficacy, metabolic neutrality, relatively few side effects, and possible protective effects on target organs such as the kidney. 1-3 Despite these attributes, a number of retrospective analyses have suggested that calcium antagonists may be detrimental and may promote adverse cardiovascular events. The first meta-analysis 4 on the effects of 1,4-dihydropyridines on outcome included 21 clinical trials and suggested an adverse trend on mortality (365 of 4731 in the-treated patients vs 330 of 4733 control patients; odds ratio, 1.13; and 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.97 to 1.32) and the development of subsequent myocardial infarction (124 of 3645 treated patients vs 111 of 3680 control patients; odds ratio, 1.14; and 95% CI, 0.68 to 1.92). Recently, Psaty et al 5 presented
Social Workers' Perceptions of Family Distress at Long-Term Care Placement

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine how social workers in long-term care (LTC) facilities in Massachusetts responded to the emotional distress frequently experienced by family members of elder relatives who were being placed. The subjects were 71 social workers randomly selected from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's 1998 Directory of Long-Term Care Facilities in Massachusetts. A mailed survey asked how often they encountered situations in which family members experienced distress in placing a relative in LTC, which family members encountered the greatest amount of distress, and which had the greatest difficulty adjusting. The survey inquired about what types of social services were currently in place to provide for distressed family members, and if social workers were aware of existing programs in the field. Although 72% of social workers responded that they offered some form of counseling, less than half of the social workers surveyed were confident that their efforts met t...