cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Erratum: The space groups of icosahedral quasicrystals and cubic, orthorhombic, monoclinic, and triclinic crystals

In 1962 Bienenstock and Ewald described a simple and systematic method for computing all the crystallographic space groups in Fourier space. Their approach is reformulated and further simplified, starting from the definition of the point group of a structure as the set of operations that take it into something indistinguishable and not merely identical to within a translation. The reformulation does not require periodicity, making it possible to define and compute on an equal footing the space groups for crystals, quasicrystals, and incommensurately modulated structures, without having to digress into the crystallography of unphysically many dimensions, and using only simple geometry and the most elementary properties of symmetry groups. The general scheme is illustrated by a unified computation of all the icosahedral, cubic, orthorhombic, monoclinic, and triclinic space groups. The remaining (axial) crystallographic and quasicrystallographic space groups have been discussed in a companion paper.
Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles Incorporating Antifade Additives for Improved Brightness and Photostability

Conjugated polymer nanoparticles with incorporated antifade agents were prepared, and ensemble and single particle measurements showed that incorporation of antifade agents effectively improves the fluorescence quantum yield and photostability of the conjugated polymer nanoparticles, likely by a combination of triplet quenching and suppression of processes involved in photogeneration of hole polarons (cations), which act as fluorescence quenchers. The photostability of conjugated polymer nanoparticles and CdSe quantum dots was compared, at both the ensemble and single particle level. The results provide confirmation of the hypothesis that quenching by photogenerated hole polarons is a key factor limiting the fluorescence quantum yield and maximum emission rate in conjugated polymer nanoparticles. Additionally, the results indicate the involvement of oxygen in photogeneration of hole polarons. The results also provide insight into the origin of quenching processes that could limit the performance of conjug...
Revisiting assumptions about the relationship of fluent reading to comprehension: Spanish-speakers’ text-reading fluency in English

Despite the growing body of research investigating the nature of text-reading fluency and its relationship to comprehension among monolingual children, very little is known about text-reading fluency for language minority (LM) learners reading in English. The present study investigated the nature of text-reading fluency—its relationship to reading comprehension and its predictors—for 76 Spanish-speaking LM fifth graders. Text-reading fluency explained unique variance in reading comprehension above and beyond word-reading fluency and oral language competencies, but its effect was not robust. The impact of text-reading fluency on comprehension was moderated by an interaction such that only students with proficient text-reading fluency and well-developed oral language demonstrated skilled comprehension. Word-reading fluency and decoding skill were significant predictors of text-reading fluency. The results suggest that existing assumptions about the relationship between text-reading fluency and comprehension may not readily apply to LM learners.
Understanding spatial transformations: similarities and differences between mental rotation and mental folding

Mental rotation and mental folding, two widely used measures of spatial ability, both require the dynamic spatial transformation of objects with respect to their internal spatial structure. Traditionally, however, these two skills have been considered quite distinct, based primarily on factor analyses of psychometric data. This paper reviews the similarities and differences between mental rotation and mental folding from a variety of perspectives, including their definitions, component cognitive processes, neurological bases, developmental trajectories, malleability, predictive validity, and psychometric properties. We conclude that mental rotation and mental folding are similar in many respects. However, the tasks differ in whether they require rigid or non-rigid transformations of objects. In addition, mental rotation shows robust sex-related differences whereas mental folding does not. We also identify specific questions for which research is lacking.
Influence of estrous and circadian cycles on calcium intake of the rat.

The food, water and sodium intake of laboratory rats fluctuates over the circadian and estrous cycles. Blood calcium and calcium-regulating hormones also wax and wane in response to these cycles, raising the possibility that the same might be true of calcium intake. To investigate this, we monitored the fluid intakes of female Long-Evans rats given a choice between water and 10 mM CaCl2 solution for two consecutive estrous cycles. We found that calcium solution intake changed over the circadian cycle in a similar manner to water intake; the preference scores for CaCl2 solution remained stable. We did not detect any changes in calcium solution intake or preference scores during the estrous cycle despite a decrease in fluid intake at estrus. Thus, fluctuations in intake of calcium solution during the circadian cycle appear to be nonspecific and probably the result of changes in fluid balance. Estrous changes either do not influence calcium intake or their effects are masked by other factors, resulting in stable levels of calcium intake.
Ondansetron versus placebo for prophylaxis of nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Abstract Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting is a common problem in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of ondansetron given at the induction of anesthesia in patients scheduled for ambulatory LC. Methods: A total of 84 patients undergoing ambulatory LC were enrolled in a randomized, prospective, double-blinded study in which the subjects received either placebo or 4 mg ondansetron intravenously at induction of anesthesia. A nausea scoring system was employed utilizing a 5-point linear scale, with 1 point given for no nausea and a maximum of 5 points for an episode of emesis. Each patient received a total of four scores postoperatively. Results: The patients receiving placebo had significantly more episodes of nausea (53 versus 32; P Conclusions: In patients undergoing ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy, ondansetron at induction was highly effective in decreasing postoperative nausea and vomiting and should become the standard.
Electronic Structure Modulations of Radially Deformed Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes under Transverse External Electric Fields

The electronic structure of radially deformed single walled carbon nanotubes under transverse external electric fields is studied by self-consistent density functional theory methods. The energy band structure modifications are analyzed, revealing that the admixture of the different states and increased σ−π hybridization are responsible for opening and/or closure of the energy band gap. We find that the nanotube energy gap modulations can be achieved for various combinations of the degree of deformation, electric field strengths, and orientations with respect to the radial nanotube cross section, thus providing additional capabilities for experimental applications of carbon nanotubes.
Provision of health counseling in office-based practices and hospital outpatient clinics.

Abstract Objective . To compare the rates of health counseling provided during primary care visits in two different types of ambulatory care settings. Methods . Secondary analysis of the 2000 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) and National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS). Results . Of the estimated 722 million adult ambulatory care visits during 2000, 90.8% were made to office-based physician practice settings and 9.2% to hospital-based outpatient departments. Consistent with previous reports, the demographic profile of patients who seek primary care in hospital outpatient departments differs from those seen in office-based practices. Provision of health counseling for exercise [OR = 1.4; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1–1.8], diet (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2–2.3), breast self-exam (OR = 2; 95% CI: 1.1–3.6) and stress management (OR = 1.7; 95% CI: 1–2.7) during patient visits was more likely to be reported in the office-based practices than in hospital outpatient clinics. The visit-based rates of health counseling for HIV/STD prevention, tobacco use, mental health or injury prevention were low in both settings. Conclusions . There is opportunity to improve rates of preventive counseling in primary care settings and to reduce disparities that exist. Identifying the reasons for these disparities and effective interventions will be important steps in providing equitable care in the area of preventive health counseling.
Age hardening in a Mg-9 wt.% Al alloy

Abstract The precipitation process and age hardening mechanism in a Mg-9 wt.% Al alloy were studied principally by transmission electron microscopy. This alloy age hardens by the general precipitation of plates of the equilibrium Mg17Al12 phase on the basal plane of the magnesium solid solution matrix. No evidence for the formation of either G.P. zones or a transition lattice of the Mg17Al12 precipitate was obtained. Cellular precipitation occurs competitively with the general precipitation at nearly all age hardening temperatures. In the solution treated condition, basal slip and {1012} twins are the principal deformation modes. Precipitation induces cross slip on the prism planes and tends to suppress {1012} twin formation. The alloys are hardened by complex dislocation tangles formed by the interaction of slip dislocations on the prism and basal planes. Neither slip dislocations nor {1012} twins shear the Mg17Al12 plates.
Assessing Detection Probabilities of Larval Amphibians and Macroinvertebrates in Isolated Ponds

Isolated ponds provide vital habitat for an array of vertebrates and invertebrates. Given the potential decline in protection of isolated ponds and the increase in urbanization in northeastern North America, knowledge of the condition of this aquatic resource is essential for developing revisions to existing regulations, conservation efforts, and restoration initiatives. We were interested in the ability of rapid assessment methods, which require only one site visit, to estimate the condition of isolated ponds. During 2008, we conducted dip-net surveys at 10-day intervals from mid-May to late July 2008 at each of 36 isolated ponds in Rhode Island. We calculated detection probabilities for larval amphibian species and predatory macroinvertebrate families and assessed factors influencing detection probabilities. Most taxa displayed distinct seasonal phenologies in detection probabilities. Pond depth and vegetative characteristics also influenced detection probabilities of many taxa. Based on seasonal variation in detection probabilities, rapid assessment methods would not be effective to monitor overall biodiversity of isolated ponds in southern New England. Rather, multiple visits would be required to estimate occupancy rates of pond-breeding amphibians or aquatic macroinvertebrates if they were used as ecological indicators of pond condition.
Cascade crossflow air stripping of moderately volatile compounds using high air-to-water ratios

Abstract The cascade crossflow air stripper provides the capability at the design stage of independently varying the cross-sectional areas for air and water flow. This flexibility results in a greatly reduced gas-phase pressure drop and permits stable operation at air and water flow rates which would cause flooding in a countercurrent column. Experimental results from a laboratory-scale cascade crossflow packed column have been coupled with design calculations to show the feasibility of stripping compounds such as 1,2-dichloroethane and methyl ethyl ketone which are not easily amenable to countercurrent air stripping. For 1,2-dichloroethane, comparable experimental stripping efficiency in countercurrent and cascade cross-flow modes was achieved with a pressure drop reduction in the cascade crossflow mode of approximately two orders of magnitude. High efficiency stripping of less volatile methyl ethyl ketone requires large G / L ratios which would flood a countercurrent column. In contrast, the large G / L ratios can be achieved in the cascade crossflow mode, and design calculations based upon the experimental results suggest that 95% efficiency can be achieved using a column of reasonable size.
Nutrient Intakes and Anthropometric Measurements of Female Colege Athletes: A Comparison Between Noncompetitive and Competitive Seasons

Abstract Numerous research studies have established that nutrition plays a significant role in successful athletic performance. The objective of this study was to compare the nutrient intakes and anthropometric measurements of 22 female athletes attending a medium-sized urban university between the noncompetitive and competitive seasons. Health and diet questionnaires and three-day food intake records were completed once during the noncompetitive season (June 1998) and again at the sixth week of the competitive season (September 1998). Height, weight, and skinfold measurements were also obtained. Mean body weight, body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat were significantly lower (p
The politics of rebirth in Colm Tóibín's ‘Three Friends’ and ‘A Long Winter’

This paper explores the compatibility of Catholic and homosexual identities. Because the language of Catholicism is so deeply entrenched in the popular imagination, I aim to show that not only does it provide a vocabulary for oppression but also for change. For the contemporary Irish novelist, the latter means conferring new meaning onto formerly oppressive language. In ‘Three Friends’ and ‘A Long Winter’, two short stories from Toibin's Mothers and Sons (2007), the protagonists undergo a ‘baptism’ that signals their emergence into a new world, one tolerant of homosexual desire. Fergus, in the ocean, and Miquel, in the bathtub, experience moments at once erotic and cleansing. I outline their participation in the traditional world – the time before their bathing rites – in contradistinction to a re-imagined, modern, ‘queer’ world. I argue that Toibin appropriates a Catholic, and therefore heteronormative, rite in a way that includes homosexuals. Thus, he reworks an oppressive framework in order to allow fo...
Adult medulloblastoma: review of 13 cases with emphasis on MRI

Medulloblastomas are generally associated with childhood, but 14–30% occur in adults, accounting for 1% of adult central nervous system tumors. While approximately one third of adult medulloblastomas present as vermian tumors similar to those seen in childhood, the majority differ substantially from the childhood variety. In this series of 13 patients, 5 had lateral, seemingly extra-axial masses in the cerebellopontine angle or at the tentorium, simulating meningiomas or acoustic neuromas, but angiographic hypovascularity in 2 of the latter suggested a diagnosis other than meningioma. Of 4 paramedian tumors, 3 diffusely infiltrated the cerebellar white matter, showed little or no gadolinium enhancement and were not associated with hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus was present in less than half of our patients; in childhood the reported incidence is 85–100%. A possible association with pregancy was noted.
The accounting practitioners/accounting educators dialogue — A short survey

Abstract The collective mission of accounting educators in any college or university is to keep the accounting program in-tune with current practices in public accounting, the industrial sector, and in governmental accounting. A Practitioners/Educators Dialogue is one way to meet the challenge of keeping the level of instruction and the accounting program relevant with current practices and standards. This paper reports on a survey of Accounting Department Chairpersons concerning the degree of interest in the concept of a Practitioners/Educators Dialogue Program.
The basics of cognitive therapy

Abstract The authors explain the principles of cognitive therapy. The theory behind this therapeutic approach–that thoughts influence feelings–is exemplified with illustrative quotations, descriptions, and a tabular presentation of various forms of cognitive distortion that lead to depression and anxiety. Similarly, a step-by-step outline of treatment is amplified by a brief case report and pertinent, clinically useful tabular material, including a form for patients’ daily recordings of dysfunctional thoughts. The author points out the value of cognitive therapy when it is used in conjunction with other approaches.
Occurrences of diplodia leaf streak caused by Stenocarpella macrospora on corn (Zea mays) in Illinois.

In August 2008, long and narrow lesions were observed on leaves of corn (Zea mays L.) growing in a field in Pope County, Illinois. Lesions were 10 to 35 × 50 to 250 mm and were cream to tan. Dark pycnidia inside the lesions were immersed and approximately 350 μm in diameter. Affected leaves were collected and placed into a moist chamber to encourage the development of conidia. Conidia developed in cirri and were dark, one septate, and 7 to 11 × 59 to 87 μm. Cirri were streaked onto potato dextrose agar (PDA; Becton, Dickinson, and Company, Franklin Lakes, NJ) and cultures arising from single conidia were transferred and maintained. On the basis of the corn leaf symptoms and the morphological characteristics of the pycnidia and conidia, the fungus was tentatively identified as Stenocarpella macrospora (Earle) Sutton (1). To complete Koch's postulates, ‘Garst 84H80-3000GT’ corn was inoculated in the greenhouse. Conidia were produced by placing a S. macrospora isolate from Pope County, IL onto water agar con...
Alcohol, caffeine and smoking in relation to age at menopause.

Abstract Objectives Exposures which might influence age at natural menopause have been extensively studied but, with the exception of cigarette smoking, results have been inconsistent. We sought to determine: (i) whether alcohol and caffeine intake are associated with age at menopause; (ii) whether the association of cigarette smoking with age at menopause is confined to current smokers. Methods Analyses drew on longitudinal data from 494 women, aged 44–60 in 1993, of whom 159 experienced menopause before intake or during follow-up. We used parametric logistic survival analysis to estimate shifts in median age at menopause for women who drink alcohol or caffeine or who smoke cigarettes. Results The estimated median age at menopause was 2.2 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.5, 3.9) years later for women who drank alcohol 5–7 days/week (13% of the sample) than for women who did not drink alcohol (54%). For women who drank at least 1 day/week, the estimated shift was 1.3 (95% CI 0.2, 2.3) years. Caffeine intake in approximate quartiles of mg/day—0–100, >100–200, >200–400, 400+—was not related to age at menopause. Current smokers of 14+ cigarettes/day (6%) experienced menopause 2.8 (95% CI −4.8, −0.8) years earlier than women who never smoked (51%). Current smokers of 1–13 cigarettes/day (5%) and former smokers (38%) experienced menopause at about the same age as women who never smoked. Conclusions The results are compatible with a pro-estrogenic effect of moderate alcohol intake and an anti-estrogenic effect of current cigarette smoking of 14+ cigarettes/day.
Dual immunoglobulin light chain B cells: Trojan horses of autoimmunity?

Receptor editing, a major mechanism of B cell tolerance, can also lead to allelic inclusion at the immunoglobulin light chain loci and the development of B cells that coexpress two different immunoglobulin light chains and, therefore, two antibody specificities. Most allelically included B cells express two κ chains, although rare dual-λ cells are also observed. Moreover, these cells typically coexpress an autoreactive and a nonautoreactive antibody. Thus, allelically included B cells could operate like ‘Trojan horses’: expression and function of the nonautoreactive antigen receptors might promote their maturation, activation, and terminal differentiation into effector cells that also express and secrete autoantibodies. Indeed, dual-κ B cells are greatly expanded into effector B cell subsets in some autoimmune mice, thus indicating they might play an important role in disease.
16.3: Considerations of the d/p Ratio in the Design of a Bistable Twist Nematic Display

The difference between equilibrium and switching d/p ratio of Bistable Twist Nematic (BTN) liquid crystal display was first showed by computer simulation. It clearly indicates that the optimized d/p ratio has to be determined by the switching rather than equilibrium d/p ratio. The considerations of optimized BTN design is discussed.
Long-Term Prognostic Value of Peak Oxygen Consumption in Women Versus Men With Heart Failure and Severely Impaired Left Ventricular Systolic Function

Although peak oxygen consumption (VO 2 ) during exercise is frequently used to help predict optimal timing for heart transplantation, its long-term prognostic value in women is not known. We followed 2,105 adult patients with heart failure (HF) and with impaired left ventricular (LV) systolic function for 5 years, including 525 women (25%) who underwent metabolic stress testing between January 1995 and December 2002. Multivariable proportional hazards modeling related VO 2 to survival with adjustments for >30 confounders and with transplantation considered as a time-dependent covariate. During follow-up, 129 women (26%) died, as did 572 men (36%). There were 175 transplants, including 34 women. Women and men were similar in age (54 vs 55 years), but women were less likely to have coronary artery disease (28% vs 58%). Peak VO 2 was strongly predictive of time to death in women (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] for peak VO 2 decreasing from 15 to 14 ml/kg/min, 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05 to 1.18, p 2 (p = 0.80), but for any given peak VO 2 women were at lower risk (adjusted HR for men compared with women 2.22, 95% CI 1.58 to 3.10, p 2 . In conclusion, in this large cohort, peak VO 2 predicted survival in women and men whether or not coronary artery disease was present, but an interaction was noted between coronary artery, gender, and survival.
Radium-226 and Radon-222: Concentration in Atlantic and Pacific Oceans

Measurements of radon-222 in seawater suggest the following. The radium-226 content of surface water in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans is uniformly close to about 4 x 10(-14) gram per liter. The deep Pacific has a concentration of radium-226 that is four times higher and the deep Atlantic a concentration twice as high as that of the surface. These distribution profiles can be explained by the same particle-settling rate for radium-226 from surface to depth for the two oceans and by a threefold longer residence time of water in the deep Pacific than in the deep Atlantic. The vertical distribution of the deficiency of radon-222 in the surface water of the northwest Pacific Ocean suggests a coefficient of vertical eddy diffusion as high as 120 square centimeters per second and a gas-exchange rate for carbon dioxide in surface water between 14 and 60 moles per square meter per year. Vertical profiles of the excess of radon-222 in near-bottom water of the South Atlantic give coefficients of vertical eddy diffusion ranging from 1.5 to more than 50 square centimeters per second.
Expression of katG in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Is Associated with Its Growth and Persistence in Mice and Guinea Pigs

The molecular mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of tuberculosis are not well understood. The present study evaluated the role of catalase-peroxidase as a potential virulence factor for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Growth and persistence of M. tuberculosis H37Rv in intravenously infected BALB/ c mice were compared with katG-deleted, isoniazid-resistant M. tuberculosis H37RVINHR. Transformation of M. tuberculosis H37Rv (TBkatG) or Mycobacterium intracellulare (MACkatG) genes into M. tuberculosis H37RvINHR restored its catalase-peroxidase activities and the ability of the recombinants to persist in spleens of mice and guinea pigs. Transformation with the TBkatG gene with the codon 463 R-->L mutation also restored catalase-peroxidase activity and enhanced persistence. However, transformants with the codon 275 T-->P mutant expressed low levels of enzymatic activity and failed to persist in guinea pig spleen, although they did survive in mouse tissues. These results indicate that KatG contributes to the ability of M. tuberculosis to grow and survive within the infected host tissues.
Dislocation nucleation and the intrinsic fracture behavior of L12 intermetallic alloys

Abstract Nucleation of superdislocations from an intergranular crack tip in L1 2 intermetallic bicrystals, and the intrinsic fracture behavior of L1 2 intermetallic alloys are studied. With Ni 3 Al as the model material, the critical energy release rate for dislocation nucleation as a function of the inclination angles of the active slip planes is obtained and compared with Ni bicrystals. A micro-mechanical model for understanding the intrinsic brittleness of L1 2 intermetallic alloys is proposed. The model shows that converting the DO 22 structure to the L1 2 structure does not guarantee a ductile fracture behavior, which is consistent with experimental observations published in the literature. An alloying principle in developing ductile L1 2 alloys is suggested, i.e. the alloying element must be able to change the atomic bonding nature so that the CSF-coupled dislocation dissociation is promoted.
Tail-flick test I: Impact of a suprathreshold exposure to radiant heat on pain reactivity in rats

Radiant heat applied to the tail elicits a vigorous tail-flick response in rats. This tail-flick reflex is frequently used to measure pain reactivity. Prior research has shown that a suprathreshold exposure to the radiant heat used to elicit this reflex causes a reduction in tail-flick latencies in pentobarbital anesthetized rats. Experiment 1 replicated this observation and showed that the effect is not due to a change in tail temperature. Experiment 2 showed that reduced latencies (hyperalgesia) are not observed if the spinal cord is transected prior to testing. Experiment 3 revealed that pentobarbital anesthesia is required to observe thermal-induced hyperalgesia, for this effect is not observed in awake subjects. Experiments 4 and 5 extended this observation by showing that awake rats also fail to exhibit hyperalgesia if others measures of pain reactivity are employed (shock-induced vocalization and motor reactivity). Implications of the results are discussed.
The Relativity of Communication: Albert Einstein as Technical Writer

Efficient information flow in technical communication depends upon accurate audience analysis. The presentation of information must be adjusted relative to the knowledge and interests of the writer's audience. Problems arise when the relative differences in audiences are slight, but nonetheless important.Albert Einstein's writing can be used as an example of skillful adaptation of material for audiences with subtle differences. A prime example is his special theory of relativity, which he published in three versions for technical, semitechnical, and nontechnical audiences. Students, teachers, and technical writers can learn much from the way Einstein uses tone, personal address, varying levels of diction, definitions, and concrete examples of each of the three expositions of his special theory of relativity.
Resonant potential scattering in a low-frequency laser field

The problem of resonant potential scattering of a charged particle in the presence of a low-frequency laser is analyzed. A method suggested by Kr\"uger and Jung is used and their result is obtained as part of the lowest order in an expansion in $\ensuremath{\omega}$, the laser frequency. Additional terms are obtained in lowest order and in the next order. No expansion in powers of $\frac{\ensuremath{\omega}}{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}$ is made where $\ensuremath{\Gamma}$ is the resonance width. A modified sum rule for the scattering is obtained.
Ethyl loss kinetics of tetraethylsilane ions studied by TPEPICO

Abstract Because of the many low-frequency vibrational modes in tetraethylsilane and the apparent difficulty of vibrationally cooling it in a molecular beam expansion, the investigation of the dissociation dynamics of “energy-selected” tetraethylsilane ions is more complicated than for most smaller ions. By applying an analysis which takes into account the broad reactant internal energy distribution, the 0 K ethyl-loss activation energy and rate constant function of internal energy were derived from threshold photoelectron-photoion coincidence (TPEPICO) data. The dissociation transition state (TS) is found to be highly variational, with the bottleneck becoming increasingly entropic with increasing internal energy. Simulations of the breakdown diagram and individual time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectra are described in detail. The measured 0 K activation energy is 0.82 (0.05 eV, leading to a 0 K heat of formation for the product ion Si(C 2 H 5 ) 3 + of 610 (16 kJ mol −1 ).
Suppression of the antibody response by a formamidine pesticide: dependence on the route of exposure.

These studies investigated the effects of exposure to chlordimeform (CDM), a formamidine pesticide, on selected in vivo immune parameters in the random bred CD‐1 mouse. Further studies were done on the effects of this compound on the in vitro PFC response in C57BL/6 mice. Acute and 14‐d exposure to CDM via the i.p. route resulted in a decrease in IgM antibody‐forming (plaque‐forming) cells (PFC) directed at the sheep red blood cell (sRBC) antigen when measured 4 d after i.p. immunization. This suppression was seen at doses as low as 20 mg/kg·d for 14 d. These same doses of CDM did not result in any alteration of cell‐mediated immunity as measured by the delayed hypersensitivily response (DHR) to both keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) and sRBC. Lymphocyte blastogenesis was increased in spleen cells from mice exposed to 40 mg/kg·d CDM in response to media alone, concanavalin A (Con A), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The in vitro PFC response by C57BL/6 mice was utilized to determine if CDM could suppress the a...
Impact of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Management Information System (PROMIS) upon the Design and Operation of Multi-center Clinical Trials: a Qualitative Research Study

New technologies may be required to integrate the National Institutes of Health's Patient Reported Outcome Management Information System (PROMIS) into multi-center clinical trials. To better understand this need, we identified likely PROMIS reporting formats, developed a multi-center clinical trial process model, and identified gaps between current capabilities and those necessary for PROMIS. These results were evaluated by key trial constituencies. Issues reported by principal investigators fell into two categories: acceptance by key regulators and the scientific community, and usability for researchers and clinicians. Issues reported by the coordinating center, participating sites, and study subjects were those faced when integrating new technologies into existing clinical trial systems. We then defined elements of a PROMIS Tool Kit required for integrating PROMIS into a multi-center clinical trial environment. The requirements identified in this study serve as a framework for future investigators in the design, development, implementation, and operation of PROMIS Tool Kit technologies.
Computational studies of shape rectification in directed self-assembly

We use self-consistent field theory (SCFT) to study shape rectification in overlapped cylindrical and non-cylindrical prepatterns. Specifically, we examine the potential of directed self-assembly (DSA) of block copolymers to not only reduce critical dimensions relative to the template, but also repair defects in the guiding prepatterns and produce defectfree contact holes. In our study over a wide range of prepattern dimensions, we found that defects in the central minorblock domain arise with decreasing center-to-center distance of the prepattern. Increasing the minor-block fraction in the block copolymer was observed to remove some of the defects. We also studied the effect of adding homopolymer to the block copolymer melt and show how blends can successfully eliminate defects and increase the range of the process window relative to the neat diblock case without influencing domain properties such as the critical dimension and the hole-to-hole distance.
Crack face bridging mechanisms in monolithic MgAl2O4 spinel microstructures

Abstract The strongly rising R -curve behavior, typical of coarse grain sized spinels, has been ascribed to crack face tractions in the wake zone which reduce the crack tip stresses. A novel experimental approach is presented which isolates these tractions for direct characterization in tension. With this method, a detailed study of the crack face separation events has identified the toughening contributions from the active microstructural constituents. Critical wake stresses, varying from 3.75 MPa for a small grain size to 13 MPa for a large grain size, are estimated for this high purity spinel containing only minor quantities of a crystalline grain boundary phase. Grain boundary interactions in the process zone are characterized through optical techniques and evidence the load-carrying role of bridging ligaments. The post fracture tensile test results of a medium grain size spinel are validated through a simple model to reconstruct the experimentally determined R -curve.
Alphaviruses: Population genetics and determinants of emergence

Alphaviruses are responsible for several medically important emerging diseases and are also significant veterinary pathogens. Due to the aerosol infectivity of some alphaviruses and their ability to cause severe, sometimes fatal neurologic diseases, they are also of biodefense importance. This review discusses the ecology, epidemiology and molecular virology of the alphaviruses, then focuses on three of the most important members of the genus: Venezuelan and eastern equine encephalitis and chikungunya viruses, with emphasis on their genetics and emergence mechanisms, and how current knowledge as well as gaps influence our ability to detect and determine the source of both natural outbreaks and potential use for bioterrorism. This article is one of a series in Antiviral Research on the genetic diversity of emerging viruses.
The effect of the U.S. federal income tax appraisal requirement on noncash charitable contributions for individuals

This article examines whether certain Internal Revenue Code (IRC) substantiation requirements of the charitable contribution deduction for federal income tax changed the behavior of taxpayers claiming large noncash contributions. Specifically prior to 1985, taxpayers were required to disclose certain information regarding noncash contributions. After 1984, however, a qualified appraisal was required to claim the charitable contribution deduction for noncash contributions over $5,000. Despite the increased substantiation requirement, we find evidence that the percentage of taxpayers claiming more than $5,000 in noncash contributions increased post 1984. Moreover, there is persuasive evidence that secondary tax evasion increased significantly during the same period. In this regard, we find that the percentage of taxpayers claiming noncash contributions just under the $5,001 appraisal threshold (arguably to avoid the more rigorous appraisal requirement) increased significantly post 1984 as did the percentage of self prepared tax returns, both findings indicative of secondary tax evasion.
Post-translational modification of tubulin in cultured neurons

Abstract Isoelectrifocusing × SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of cultured sympathetic neurons revealed two α- and two β-subunits of tubulin. In pulse-chase experiments, the spot morphology of the β-subunits synthesized during a 10 min pulse did not change appreciably during the chase period. However, the appearance of the labeled α-subunits changed during the chase period. With chase periods of 6h, they focused as short streaks.
31P nuclear magnetic resonance: application to the study of human serum high density lipoproteins.

Abstract Highly resolved 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (31P NMR) spectra were obtained from human serum high density lipoproteins. The spectral shifts obtained were interpreted as reflecting an influence of countercations on the polar phosphate headgroups of the phospholipids found in these lipoproteins. The results indicated that 31P NMR is a potentially useful technique in the study of the structure of serum lipoproteins.
Dense stellar matter in asymptotically free gauge theories: I. The high density limit

Abstract In asymptotically free gauge theories perturbation theory may be used to obtain the behavior of dense stellar matter. The criteria for the determination of ϱ crit , the minimum density above which perturbation theory is valid, are presented. The asymptotic form for the quark-gluon thermodynamic potential is given.
Certain induced measures and the fractional dimensions of their "supports"

Keywords: probability theory Reference GPRO-ARTICLE-1964-002doi:10.1007/BF00534907 Record created on 2010-05-25, modified on 2016-08-08
Cultural Heritage at Risk in the Twenty-First Century: A Vulnerability Assessment of Coastal Archaeological Sites in the United States

ABSTRACTTwenty-first-century global warming poses a significant threat to the cultural heritage of coastal regions, but the effects of sea-level rise and changing weather patterns will not be evenly distributed. In addition, continued urban, agricultural, and industrial development concentrated in coastal areas contributes to the destruction of cultural resources. Mitigation of these threats requires rapid action on the part of archaeologists and public land managers. This study presents a method for quickly evaluating relative resource vulnerability at national, regional, and local scales, using data that is available for all United States coastlines, as well as many other coastlines around the world. Three regional case studies—the mountainous coast of California's Santa Barbara Channel, the wetlands and sandy shores of Texas, and the protected estuarine shores of Virginia's Chesapeake Bay—are compared to shoreline vulnerability for the United States as a whole. In each of these regions, sites have alre...
Identification of viable and non-viable Mycobacterium tuberculosis in mouse organs by directed RT-PCR for antigen 85B mRNA.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) the causative organism of tuberculosis can remain dormant as a non-culturable organism, reactivate and cause disease in man and animals. There is a need for proof of viability of such organisms in order to understand the process of reactivation. PCR for bacterial DNA cannot distinguish between viable and non-viable bacilli. We have tested a previously described two tube directed reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for the detection of mRNA of antigen 85B (Ag85B) of MTB that can distinguish between viable and non-viable organisms. Using a set of external and internal primers for Ag85B, a cDNA amplified product (216 bp) was seen among simulated samples containing only viable cfus at a sensitivity of >10 and <100 cfu/ml. Eucaryotic DNA rich normal mouse lung homogenate did not interfere among these samples. The method amplified the 216 bp product also among cfu positive tissues of naturally infected mice. Finally, in a mouse model of dormancy, direct RT-PCR detected a signal among multiple tissues that were negative for cfus and hence non-culturable. Ag85B is abundantly secreted by MTB and hyper-expressed under stress conditions. Thus the method to identify its mRNA message may be useful to detect viable but dormant bacteria.
Tailoring a Bacteriochlorin Building Block with Cationic, Amphipathic, or Lipophilic Substituents

Bacteriochlorins are attractive candidates for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of diverse medical indications owing to their strong absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) region, but their use has been stymied by lack of access to stable, synthetically malleable molecules. To overcome these limitations, a synthetic free base 3,13-dibromobacteriochlorin (BC-Br3Br13) has been exploited as a building block in the synthesis of diverse bacteriochlorins via Pd-mediated coupling reactions (Sonogashira, Suzuki, and reductive carbonylation). Each bacteriochlorin is stable to adventitious dehydrogenation by virtue of the presence of a geminal dimethyl group in each pyrroline ring. The target bacteriochlorins bear cationic, lipophilic, or amphipathic substituents at the 3- and 13- (β-pyrrolic) positions. A dicarboxybacteriochlorin was converted to amide derivatives via the intermediate diacid chloride. A diformylbacteriochlorin was subjected to reductive amination to give aminomethyl derivatives. A set of 3,5-disubstitute...
Insulin Receptor Signaling in Normal and Insulin-Resistant States

In the wake of the worldwide increase in type-2 diabetes, a major focus of research is understanding the signaling pathways impacting this disease. Insulin signaling regulates glucose, lipid, and energy homeostasis, predominantly via action on liver, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue. Precise modulation of this pathway is vital for adaption as the individual moves from the fed to the fasted state. The positive and negative modulators acting on different steps of the signaling pathway, as well as the diversity of protein isoform interaction, ensure a proper and coordinated biological response to insulin in different tissues. Whereas genetic mutations are causes of rare and severe insulin resistance, obesity can lead to insulin resistance through a variety of mechanisms. Understanding these pathways is essential for development of new drugs to treat diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and their complications.
Sarcocystis inghami n. sp. (Sporozoa: Sarcocystidae) from the skeletal muscles of the Virginia opossum Didelphis virginiana in Michigan.

This report describes the newly identified Sarcocystis inghami n. sp. from the skeletal muscles of opossums (Mammalia: Didelphidae) that were collected from south central Michigan (42° 43′-42° 79′N, 84° 18′-84°mathtype="display">6'W), USA. The new species is distinguished from all species described from North and South American opossums by the distinctive morphology of the villar protrusions on the cyst wall. Sarcocysts of S. inghami are microscopic, up to 700 μm long and 110 μm wide. The sarcocyst wall is up to 7 μm thick, with long, stalked protrusions which average 5.5 × 1.2 μm. These are constricted at the base, expanded laterally, rounded off distally and occasionally bifid. The villar protrusions have numerous microtubules without electron−dense bodies that extend from the tips into the granular layer. Bradyzoites are 10.7 × 4.3 (8−−12 × 4−−5) μm. This is the second species of Sarcocystis sarcocyst described from the Virginia opossum in North America.
Digital democracy simulation: a prototype development

This research paper presents the design and development of a prototype for digital democracy simulation to enhance history learning for middle school and high school students. This project seeks to create an innovative software package that will serve as a model for democracy education in Tennessee and the United States. Through the collaboration of professors of computer science and history, historical content from Middle Tennessee State University's Gore Center will be digitized and manipulated to create an interactive, group-oriented, computer-based simulation of how democracy works. In the first phase of this project we designed an online computer game that allows students to learn about the history of the Civil Rights Bill through the decisions that Senator Gore Sr. made. Senator Gore Sr. was a Tennessee Senator during the time of the Civil Rights Bill.
Gravity-assisted melting in a spherical enclosure: Effects of natural convection

A theoretical model of graivity-assisted melting in a spherical enclosure is discussed in this paper. A sphere with a phase change material initially in the solid phase at its melting temperature is instantaneously exposed to a uniform higher temperature at the wall. The solid phase is assumed to have a higher density as compared to the liquid and drops down as it melts. The effects of natural convection on the melting process have been considered in this analysis. Suitable simplications have been made where necessary, in order to reduce computational effort and time. The non-dimensional melt time and heat transfer coefficient have been obtained as a function of the property values, operating temperatures and physical size for Md ⪡ 1, Ste ⪡ 1, 104 ⩽ Gr ⩽ 106, 10 ⩽ Pr ⩽ 100, 0.5 ⩽ Mt ⩽5.0,0 ⩽ Sb ⩽ 0.75, 0.01 ⩽ 1/Prα0 ⩽ 1.0 and 0.01 ⩽ Ste/c0p ⩽ 0.2. Natural convection is found to limit the range of applicability of previously published correlations.
a Two-Dimensional Dynamic Simulation of Solid Fracture Part II: Examples

This paper uses the model described in Ref. 1 to simulate fracture in many simple systems with the goal of evaluating the advantages and deficiencies of the model. The examples include compressive failure of a rectangular sample, four-point shear failure of a beam and the impact of particles with a plate and binary impacts of particles. Where possible, the simulated results seem to be in good agreement with typical experimental results. Finally, a simulation of ball-milling, which involves the flow and fracture of many particles is shown to demonstrate the overall utility of the model.
Activity of antimicrobial skin peptides from ranid frogs against Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, the chytrid fungus associated with global amphibian declines

Accumulating evidence suggests that a chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, is responsible for recent declines in amphibian populations in Australia, Central America, Europe, and North America. Because the chytrid infects the keratinized epithelium of the skin, we investigated the possible role of antimicrobial peptides produced in the skin as inhibitors of infection and growth. We show here that 10 peptides representing eight families of peptides derived from North American ranid frogs can effectively inhibit growth of this chytrid. The peptides are members of the ranatuerin-1, ranatuerin-2, esculentin-1, esculentin-2, brevinin-2, temporin, palustrin-3, and ranalexin families. All the tested peptides inhibit growth of mature fungal cells at concentrations above 25 microM, and some of them inhibit at concentrations as low as 2 microM. A comparison of the sensitivity of infectious zoospores with that of mature cells showed that the zoospores are inhibited at significantly lower concentrations of peptides. To determine whether cold temperature interferes with the inhibitory effects of these peptides, we tested their effectiveness at both 22 and 10 degrees C. Although the peptides inhibit at both temperatures, they appear to be more effective against zoospores at the lower temperature. These results suggest that the ranid frogs have, within their repertoire of antimicrobial substances, a number of skin peptides that should be a deterrent to chytrid infection. This may provide some natural resistance to infection, but if environmental factors inhibit the synthesis and release of the skin peptides, the pathogen could gain the advantage.