cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interactions of TCRs with MHC-peptide complexes: a quantitative basis for mechanistic models

The activation of T lymphocytes is initiated by the binding of MHC-peptide complexes on antigen-presenting cells to MHC-restricted, peptide specific TCRs. Significant progress has recently been made in understanding the structure of the TCR and in the direct quantitative examination of the primary binding interactions between MHC-peptide complexes and the TCR. Attempts to develop quantitative models for the differential activation of T cells by MHC-peptide ligands that differ subtly in their structure have largely been based on either the affinity of the MHC-peptide complexes for the TCR in question or on the dissociation kinetics of the MHC-peptide complex from the T cell.
A social neuroscience perspective on clinical empathy

Clinical empathy is an important element of quality health care. Empathic communication is associated with improved patient satisfaction, increased adherence to treatment, and fewer malpractice complaints (1). Patients' perceptions of their physicians' empathy are positively related to more favorable health outcomes (2–4). In addition to improving patient outcomes, clinical empathy is associated with increased overall well-being for the physician (5). High levels of practitioner empathy have been associated with decreased burnout, personal distress, depression and anxiety, along with increased life satisfaction and psychological well-being (6,7). Despite increasing appreciation of the value of empathy, medical educators continue to struggle with how best to educate students and residents on empathy maintenance. There have been several promising creative approaches that have shown demonstrable short-term success (8). However, there is a lack of evidence for enduring success, that is, for interventions during medical education that will enable physicians to sustain empathy throughout their careers. A more comprehensive and precise understanding of the subcomponents of empathy and how they are influenced by stress and anxiety is needed in order to design targeted interventions.
Exploring the active site of phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase with 1,2,3,4-tetrahydrobenz[h]isoquinoline inhibitors.

1,2,3,4-Tetrahydrobenz[ h ]isoquinoline (THBQ, 11 ) is a potent, inhibitor of phenylethanolamine N -methyltransferase (PNMT). Docking studies indicated that the enhanced PNMT inhibitory potency of 11 (hPNMT K i = 0.49 μM) versus 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline ( 5 , hPNMT K i = 5.8 μM) was likely due to hydrophobic interactions with Val53, Met258, Val272, and Val269 in the PNMT active site. These studies also suggested that the addition of substituents to the 7-position of 11 that are capable of forming hydrogen bonds to the enzyme could lead to compounds ( 14 – 18 ) having enhanced PNMT inhibitory potency. However, these compounds are in fact less potent at PNMT than 11 . Furthermore, 7-bromo-THBQ ( 19 , hPNMT K i = 0.22 mM), which has a lipophilic 7-substituent that cannot hydrogen bond to the enzyme, is twice as potent at PNMT than 11 . This once again illustrates the limitations of docking studies for lead optimization.
Congenital posterior urethral polyp in a boy.

7-year-old boy was referred for management of a congenital posterior urethral polyp after undergoing an evaluation for acute urinary retention. The child had no antecedent history of hematuria, urinary tract infection, or voiding dysfunction. An ultrasound examination of the kidneys and bladder showed them to be normal. Contrast cystography showed two diverticula with an otherwise smooth bladder wall. The patient was unable to void, and therefore, the urethra was not visualized by cystourethrography. Endoscopy of the urethra demonstrated a large posterior urethral polyp arising by a broad base from the verumontanum with the preponderance of the polyp occluding the vesical neck (Fig. 1). The bladder was smooth walled with the exception of two wide-mouthed diverticula. The ostium of the left diverticulum was on the posterior lateral wall, just cranial to the left ureteral orifice. The right-sided diverticulum was of the Hutch variety. The polyp was managed by a transurethral incision of its base with a narrowtipped electrode, using the cutting mode and cutting across the base of its stalk. The polyp was retrieved from the bladder with a stone basket. The child voided spontaneously and returned home immediately after surgery. A subsequent voiding cystourethrogram showed a normal urethra with the diverticula smaller and emptying with voiding. Posterior urethral polyps are rare, with sporadic reports of small series of cases. 1‐3 Histologically, the polyps are composed of smooth muscle covered by transitional epithelium, as in our patient. 2 Symptoms include hematuria, intermittent obstruction, obstructive voiding complaints, or urinary retention. 2,3 The evaluation consists of renal and bladder ultrasonography, contrast voiding cystourethrography, and endoscopy of the urethra
HIGHER ORDER KINETIC THEORY OF EXCITATIONS IN He II AND SPONTANEOUS INSTABILITY IN A COUNTER CURRENT.

Abstract The kinetic theory of excitations in flowing liquid He II is developed to a higher order than that carried out previously in order to demonstrate the existence of nonequilibrium terms of a new nature in the hydrodynamic equations. It is shown that these terms can lead to spontaneous destabilization in counter currents when the relative velocity of the normal and super fluids exceeds a critical value depending on temperature. The critical velocities are estimated to range from 14 to 20 m/sec, but tend to zero as T → Tλ.
A method for the isolation, identification, and quantitation of water-soluble aliphatic acylcarnitines.

Abstract A multistep method for the isolation, identification, and quantitation of nanomole quantities of aliphatic short-chain acylcarnitines is described.
The structure, mass and interactions of the hydrothermal plumes at 26°N on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge

Abstract Water-column surveys by combined nephelometer/CTD (NCTD) tows contributed to the 1985 discovery of the first black smokers on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Subsequent regional water-column mapping has helped define the extent, mass and interactions of the suspended particulate matter phase (SPM) of the hydrothermal plumes emanating from the known and other nearby sources. The results of 29 NCTD cast/tows, covering 25–30 km 2 of ridge segment, indicate the presence of as many as two additional sources based on SPM concentration gradients and plume-top doming over source areas. Plume doming, documented here for the first time from field observations, conforms strikingly with laboratory experiments and can serve as a marker for source field location. A comparison of the plumes' SPM with potential temperature and salinity distributions indicates close correlation in water-column anomaly patterns for each, confirming modification of the regional potential temperature and salinity structure by hydrothermal plumes, which is expressed by wide separation and sloping of isotherms and isohalines.
Predictors of quality of life in AIDS patients.

Background While much work has been completed in relation to measuring and defining the varying dimensions of quality of life in HIV/AIDS, very little research attention has been directed toward identifying factors that influence or enhance quality of life. Objective This study examined whether variables relating to demographic characteristics, severity of illness, psychological status, or level of engagement in nursing care would predict quality of life in persons with advanced or late stage HIV/AIDS. Methods A convenience sample of 162 hospitalized male and female patients with AIDS participated in this study. The participants completed the HIV Symptom Checklist, the Beck Depression Inventory, the HIV-QAM (a measure of changes in the status of hospitalized AIDS patients due to nursing care), and two measures of engagement in nursing care. The Living With HIV Scale was used as the measure of quality of life. The two components of this scale were analyzed independently. Results The strongest predictor of decreased quality of life scores was depression (accounting for 23% of the variance), with symptoms accounting for 9.75% and female gender accounting for an additional 8%. Two measures of patient engagement with nursing care providers contributed a total of 13.44% of the variance in quality of life scores. Conclusions The findings emphasize the importance of recognizing and treating depression in persons with HIV/AIDS. The number of symptoms and their frequency also has a profound effect on quality of life. Although modest, study findings suggest that quality of life for an acutely ill, hospitalized patient with AIDS is enhanced through more active involvement or engagement in the process of nursing care.
Price discovery and informational efficiency of international iShares funds

Abstract Recently international iShares exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have become popular investment vehicles for U.S. investors because they represent diversified portfolios of securities that have the best qualities of closed and open-end mutual funds. Like closed-end mutual funds, iShares ETFs can be traded throughout the day; like open-end mutual funds, they allow for the creation and redemption of securities, but have lower expense fees, and are more tax efficient. We analyze the price discovery process and information transmission of 24 international iShares funds. The international ETF trading in U.S. markets is driven by information released during each local market's trading session and not during the U.S. trading session; iShares have limited diversification benefits and reflect all fundamental information from their underlying stocks.
The primary wave of epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation represents alpha2-adrenoceptor status

We examined relationships between epinephrine-induced slope of primary wave of aggregation and the alpha 2-adrenoceptor status on platelets. A concentration (10(-9) to 10(-6]-dependent increase in slope of primary wave with EC50 of epinephrine at 4.5 +/- 0.4 x 10(-7) was observed. In studies on epinephrine binding to alpha 2-adrenoceptors in competition with 3H-yohimbine to platelets, (IC50) of epinephrine was 4.8 +/- 3.4 x 10(-7) M. There was a significant (P less than or equal to 0.02) correlation between EC50 of epinephrine to evoke biological response and IC50 of epinephrine to bind to alpha 2-adrenoceptors (r-0.75). There was no relationship between number of receptor sites or dissociation constant of 3H-yohimbine binding and primary wave of platelet aggregation. These data show that the slope of primary wave in response to epinephrine reflects alpha 2-adrenoceptor binding of the agonist.
State and Society in Pre–March Prussia: The Weavers’ Uprising, the Bureaucracy and the Association for the Welfare of Workers

On 19 June 1844, two weeks after the Silesian weavers' uprising, the Vossische Zeitung ran an article on Langenbielau's (one of the centers of the uprising) leading textile manufacturer and the remains of his once stately mansion. “No windows, only the debris of the window pane, mullions and transoms of window crosses are broken or pulled out, where windows were barred, the bars are smashed, here and there doors are crashed or broken up, wrecked equipment is piled up in front of houses, walls are strewn with distinct signs of stone throws … We walk on rubble wherever our foot turns … Furniture, hardly recognizable in the small pieces into which it has been smashed, torn papers and torn wall papers everywhere, beds are cut open, stoves broken apart.”
The nocturnal inversion and its effect on the dispersion of carbon monoxide at ground level in Hampton, Virginia

Abstract Absolute maxima in surface-level carbon monoxide exceeded the primary 8-h standard of 9 ppm several times between the hours of 1900 and 0700 local tone for the fall and winter of 1976 in Hampton, Virginia. A field measurement program showed that reduced mixing volumes due to nocturnal radiation inversions were probably responsible for this build up of carbon monoxide despite night-time reductions in the principal carbon monoxide source, vehicular traffic.
A leader-follower model and analysis for a two-stage network of oligopolies

This paper is concerned with the existence, uniqueness and computation of leader-follower equilibrium solutions for an industry involved with two major stages of production. We assume that there exists one set of firms performing the first stage of production, which produces a semi-finished product. This semi-finished product is converted to a final good by a second set of firms performing the second stage of production. Furthermore, also competing in the final product market is a third set of firms, which are vertically integrated through the two stages of production and which are assumed to lead the second set of firms by explicitly considering the reaction or response of these latter firms to their own outputs. We model such an industry as a two-stage network of oligopolies, and define equilibrium solutions based on assumed market structures. Our analysis examines the existence and uniqueness of such equilibrium solutions, characterizes the nature of the production strategies of the various firms at an equilibrium, and prescribes algorithms to compute such solutions. This provides the machinery required to perform sensitivity analyses for studying the effects of various mergers or integrations on individual firm profits, and on the industry outputs and prices at equilibrium. The presentation is self-contained, and does not necessarily require any significant prior preparation in economic theory on the part of the reader.
FIRING ANALYSIS OF SOUTH‐EASTERN MISSOURI INDIAN POTTERY USING IRON MÖSSBAUER SPECTROSCOPY*

The Mossbauer spectra of prehistoric pottery and clay from the Malden Plain of south-eastern Missouri, USA, were examined. The pottery dates from AD 500 to 1400. The earlier sherds were tempered with sand and the later ones with shell. The sherds and clay contain a mixture of illite, smectite, and kaolinite. Most samples of clay and sherds contained both ferric and ferrous species. The spectral parameters for the ferric species were %DLEQ∼0. 7—1.1 mms-1 and δ∼0.0–0.3 mms-1 for the ferrous species, ΔEQ∼2.1–2.7mms-1 and δ∼0.7–1.0mms-1. The ferric to ferrous ratio is more accurately determined from the spectra than from consideration of the colour or the firing core of the sherds, which are not always related to the iron species ratio. Differences among sherds in the ferrous ΔEQ can be related to original temperature of heating but with low precision.
Moral rights: Conflicts and valid claims

Most of us have certain intuitions about moral rights, at least partially captured by the ideas that: (A) rights carry special weight in moral argument; (B) persons retain their rights even when they are legitimately infringed; although (C) rights undoubtedly do conflict with one another, and are sometimes overridden as well by nonrights considerations. I show that Dworkin's remarks about rights allow us to affirm (A), (B), and (C), yet those remarks are extremely vague. I then argue that Feinberg's more comprehensive and precise theory, designed to do justice to all three theses, cannot assure us of (A), that rights are not merely one consideration to be weighed in the balance with heterogeneous others. I show how Feinberg accepts (C) despite being drawn toward an alternative “absolutist” theory of rights and commits himself to (B) through his rejection of prima facie rights. But his promising distinction between recognition and enforcement of a right, which helps give some sense to (B) despite its tension with (C), undermines the force of rights in moral argument apparently intended by (A). We thus learn that Feinberg's and Dworkin's accounts of rights are incompatible, though each is correct in important ways. Contrasting their views allows us to clarify the implications and consistency of alternative theses about rights, one step toward meeting the challenge of developing a theory which shows more adequately how respect for rights is to be combined with other intuitions about rights and their relation to other values.
Mapping of promoter sites utilized by T3 RNA polymerase on T3 DNA

Promoter locations for the T3 RNA polymerase on the physical map of T3 DNa have been determined. Through the use of conditions favoring the synthesis of RNA from the class II region, an agarose-formaldehyde gel system which improves the resolution of high molecular weight RNAs, and template DNA that was cut by one of several restriction endonucleases prior to transcription, seventeen promoter locations for the T3 RNA polymerase have been mapped. Ten promoters have been identified in the class II region and one promotor has been identified in the class II region and one promotor has been identified in the early (class I) region. The locations of previously mapped class III promoters and the internal termination signal for the T3 RNA polymerase have been mapped more precisely than in previous reports. The resulting transcription map demonstrates a striking similarity to the transcription map of bacteriophage T7.
Characteristics of Adult Education Students and Factors Which Determine Course Completion: A Review

This paper reviews research on participants and persistence in distance education. The purpose of the paper is to relate selected research findings (contained in published journals or ERIC documents) on participants and persistence to a theoretical framework based on the literature of adult education and distance education. The findings are divided into three categories: descriptive research on distance education participants’ characteristics; comparisons of distance students and conventional students; and studies of student characteristics as they relate to persistence in distance education courses and programs. Selected findings in the latter category are further related to other theories of distance education.
Capital Equipment Acquisition in Heavy Construction

Capital equipment acquisition is an important process in the heavy construction industry. Equipment is often one of the largest investments for a company and has a significant effect on cash flow and profit potential. The purpose of this article is to investigate capital equipment acquisition processes of heavy construction companies. The equipment acquisition process was analyzed by evaluating equipment replacement policies, the position of the individual making equipment purchasing decisions, and the effect of company size on equipment replacement policy. A questionnaire was used to survey members of the Associated General Contractors of America and various asphalt and concrete pavement trade associations in the United States. Results suggest there is a direct correlation between the size of the company and the use of capital budgets and equipment policies as decision-making tools. Results further indicate that the chief executive officer is often the decision maker when it comes to equipment acquisitio...
Torque Ripple Attenuation of an Axial Piston Pump by Continuous Swash Plate Adjustment

One of the major drawbacks of a hydraulic system is the disturbing noise generated by the hydraulic pump. Based on the accepted theory about noise generation in an axial piston pump, various studies suggesting modification of the port-plate relief groove geometry and addition of hydraulic attenuators have shown a limited success in reducing the noise. The noise level is still high and may not be acceptable for future applications. A recent industrial study shows that the noise apparently has relation with the torque acting on the input shaft of the axial piston pump. The primary objective of this paper is to describe a new method to reduce the noise level by varying the swash plate of the pump continuously to eliminate the torque ripple. The paper begins by deriving the equation of torque acting on the input shaft as a function of the average torque and the total number of pistons that are used within the rotating group. A control law is derived according to which if the swash plate is dithered, should give a constant shaft torque. By attenuating the torque ripple characteristics of the pump, other vibrational aspects of the pump are also expected to be reduced. The secondary objective of this paper is to present a Simulink® model of a nine piston pump to describe a functional pump. The swash plate control law earlier derived will be applied to this model to see the behavior of the output parameters like the shaft torque, output flow and pressure. The results will be investigated to see if any relationship exist between the pump torque ripple and pressure ripple, and the theory of pump noise attenuation by reduction in torque ripple will be corroborated.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Multiple field scalar-tensor theories of gravity and cosmology.

We consider multiple scalar fields coupled to gravity, with special attention given to two-field theories. First, the conditions necessary for these theories to exactly meet solar system tests are given. We find, in particular, that these constraints require that some scalar kinetic terms be non-positive-definite. Next, we investigate the cosmological evolution of the fields to see if these conditions can be met. Solutions are found in the dust era, as well as radiation- and cosmological-constant-dominated epochs. The possibility of inflation in these theories is discussed. While power law growth of the scalar fields can yield the appropriate conditions to meet solar system constraints, these solutions are unstable.
A new 1.6-micron map of Titan's surface

We present a new map of Titan's surface obtained in the spectral 'window' at ∼1.6 μm between strong methane absorption. This pre-Cassini view of Titan's surface was created from images obtained using adaptive optics on the W.M. Keck II telescope and is the highest resolution map yet made of Titan's surface. Numerous surface features down to the limits of the spatial resolution (∼200–300 km) are apparent. No features are easily identifiable in terms of their geologic origin, although several are likely craters.
Study of Dose and Dose Rate in the Implantation of Nitrogen Isotopes Into Si(100)

In this paper we address the issue of the dependence of Si 3 N 4 formation on dose dose rate, and target temperature for high dose (up to 3 X 10 18 N/cm 2 ) implantation of nitrogen isotopel into Si targets. RBS results for high current (I≈ 30μ/cm 2 ) and room temperature nitrogen implantations indicate that the nitrogen profile and the reduction of the backscattering signal from Si generally appear to be Gaussian. The nitrogen concentration exceeds Si 3 N 4 stoichiometry at the higher doses. Read Camera results indicate the formation of polycrystalline α-Si 3 N 4 and polycrystalline silicon for samples implanted at room temperature and annealed at 1200°C for 2 hours in a 10 Torr vacuum system. For samples implanted at 350 °C and annealed, there is evidence of crystalline α-Si 3 N 4 with fiber texture structure. For low current (〈1 °A/cm 2 ) and room temperature implantation, RBS indicates the formation of a layer whose N/Si ratio is the same as that of Si 3 N 4 . Furthermore, the nitrogen profile and the reduction of the Si backscattering signal appear flat. These results suggest that a uniform layer of Si 3 N 4 can be produced providing the supply of nitrogen does not exceed the diffusion rate of nitrogen in compounds formed during implantation.
Permeability versus conductivity for porous media with wide distribution of pore sizes.

Using recent results on random resistor networks, we derive the relation between the permeability and the conductivity of liquid-saturated porous materials, presumably exact in the limit of a wide distribution of pore sizes. This relation also applies to some continuum percolation models, and the range of its universality is discussed. Some discrepancy is found with the previous anlaysis of Katz and Thompson [Phys. Rev. B 34, 8179 (1986)]. Mechanisms are proposed to recover agreement with their experiments. The pore-size parameter \ensuremath{\Lambda} characterizing surface effects is computed.
Organizational Characteristics of High- and Low-Performing Anticoagulation Clinics in the Veterans Health Administration

Objective Anticoagulation clinics (ACCs) can improve anticoagulation control and prevent adverse events. However, ACCs vary widely in their performance on anticoagulation control. Our objective was to compare the organization and management of top-performing with that of bottom-performing ACCs. Data Sources/Study Setting Three high outlier and three low outlier ACCs in the Veterans Health Administration (VA). Study Design Site visits with qualitative data collection and analysis. Data Collection/Extraction Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with ACC staff regarding work flow, staffing, organization, and quality assurance efforts. We also observed ACC operations and collected documents, such as the clinic protocol. We used grounded thematic analysis to examine site-level factors associated with high and low outlier status. Principal Findings High outlier sites were characterized by (1) adequate (pharmacist) staffing and effective use of (nonpharmacist) support personnel; (2) innovation to standardize clinical practice around evidence-based guidelines; (3) the presence of a quality champion for the ACC; (4) higher staff qualifications; (5) a climate of ongoing group learning; and (6) internal efforts to measure performance. Although high outliers had all of these features, no low outlier had more than two of them. Conclusions The top-performing ACCs in the VA system shared six relatively recognizable characteristics. Efforts to improve performance should focus on these domains.
Recombination of Three Atoms in the Ultracold Limit

We identify two qualitatively different mechanisms that control three-body recombination in a spin-polarized gas near zero temperature. A universal curve describes the recombination rate versus the two-body scattering length $a$. It grows as ${a}^{4}$ for large $|a|,$ with different mechanisms for $al0$ and $ag0$. Our calculations document a previously established mechanism that causes ${K}_{3}$ to grow rapidly as the two-body scattering length $a$ increases toward $+\ensuremath{\infty}$, and a new tunneling mechanism that produces an even stronger enhancement of ${K}_{3}$ as $a\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\infty}$. The expectations based on these two mechanisms can be modified by quantum mechanical interference or resonance effects.
Stimulus control applications to the treatment of worry.

Abstract As an internal, self-generated event, worrisome cognitive activity can occur under a wide variety of environmental conditions. The contiguity of the activity and diverse cues would suggest that poor discriminative control is established, and, conversely, that subject-initiated restriction of the temporal and environmental cues for the occurrence of the activity may reduce its frequency during the day. Two experiments are reported wherein self-labeled worriers received either no-treatment or a 4-week trial of stimulus control instructions designed to effect such a restriction. Daily worry reports were found to decline significantly among treated subjects relative to controls.
NMDA receptor-dependent long term hyperalgesia after tail amputation in mice

Amputation of the mouse tail tip (2.5 cm) caused long term thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia in the remaining part of the tail. Hyperalgesia of the hindpaw to noxious heat (55 degrees C) and cold (0 degrees C) stimuli were also observed. Hyperalgesia at both the tail and hindpaw had a rapid onset ( or = 7 days) effect. Skin temperature of the remaining tail or hindpaw was not significantly affected by the amputation. Heat injury of the tail in normal mice induced short but not long term hyperalgesia (< or = 48 h). Intrathecal pretreatment with NMDA receptor antagonists significantly attenuated long term hyperalgesia caused by tail amputation. These results strongly suggest that spinal NMDA receptors are critical for the induction of hyperalgesia by tail amputation, and the current mouse model may prove useful for investigating mechanisms of persistent pain after amputation.
Hepatitis C virus infection: when silence is deception

Abstract Hepatitis C virus (HCV) uses complex and unique mechanisms to prevent, evade or subvert innate and adaptive immune responses and to establish persistent infection and chronic hepatitis. Recently developed experimental systems have significantly facilitated the analysis of HCV replication, virus–host interaction and pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis and have provided new insights into the mechanisms of HCV clearance and persistence.
Biogeography of Early and Middle Paleozoic nautiloid Cephalopods: Evidence for barriers to dispersal and evolution

Abstract The observed temporal and spatial distributions of Paleozoic nautiloid cephalopods do not support the common view of nautiloids as inadequate sources of biogeographic information. Such views are traceable to: 1) misunderandings and misconceptions about the hydrodynamics of shell design and the ecology and reproduction of the animal, 2) unfortunate developments during the early formulation of nautiloid systematics, and 3) a lack of effort toward modernizing nautiloid systematics Evidence is provided to refute these problems and to demonstrate the worth of Paleozoic nautiloids in establishing viable biogeographies capable of testing and questioning paleogeographic reconstructions. In this context, the distributions of Paleozoic nautiloids are shown to have been controlled by at least three first order biogeographic barriers: 1) water depth related to implosion limits of the shell, 2) distance separating adjacent shelf seas, and 3) cooler waters outside the sub-tropical to tropical latitudes. Response to these barriers were different among nautiloid orders and caused differences in dispersal potentials. The result was a constantly changing pattern of faunal connections among landmasses as conditions were varied through adjustments in the plate tectonic system.
A model for fully developed turbulence

A model for stationary, fully developed turbulence is presented in which the turbulent spectral energy function is completely determined once the time scale for the energy fed into the eddy interaction is known. The form of the eddy correlation time scale determining the turbulent viscosity is suggested by the basic equation of the model itself, up to a dimensionless constant that is fixed by demanding that the coefficient of the spectrum in the Heisenberg-Kolmogoroff inertial range of wavenunmbers be the experimental value. The model makes quantitative predictions that are compared with data on turbulent convection; the k-epsilon and Smagorinsky relations; the spectral function, transfer term, and dissipation term; the skewness factor; the Kolmogoroff and Batchelor constants; and the inertial-conductive and inertial-convective ranges.
The clergy and the funeral director: Complementary or contrasting perspectives?

Abstract This paper is based on a survey of clergy and funeral directors in South Carolina to determine the extent to which the clergy, as representatives of the institutional church, support directions taken by the funeral industry. A total of 150 questionnaires were sent to funeral directors and to 50 United Methodist, 50 Roman Catholic and 50 Episcopalian ministers. Responses by Catholic priests were similar to those of funeral directors in their endorsement of current funeral practices, with Methodists more critical and Episcopalians markedly stronger in their advocacy of alternate customs such as memorial services, cremation, etc. The cooperation dictated by their respective functions seems in some cases to foster supportive relationships, in others, resentful differences.
The current Southeast Asia financial crisis

Abstract The current Southeast Asia financial crisis is not handled easily in a brief speech. Too many countries are involved, each with special features. And worse yet, new developments are occurring almost daily. The crisis, alas, is still very much an ongoing one. What we have all been calling "the" crisis, moreover, is really three separate, closely interrelated crisis, each corresponding to one of the three classic financial risks. These interrelated crisis should be thought of not as natural disasters like the Kobe earthquake, unexpectedly coming out of the blue, nor as divine punishment for our sins, but as man-made, or should I say institution-made disasters. Individuals did indeed make their share of mistakes, but our market-driven institutions should have had enough resilience to keep the damages from compounding. They did not, for reasons I will try to explain; and until some fundamental changes in our financial institutions do occur – and I do not mean mere or more regulation – we will remain vulnerable, I fear, to more of the same in the years ahead.
Mast cells derived from embryonic stem cells: a model system for studying the effects of genetic manipulations on mast cell development, phenotype, and function in vitro and in vivo.

Large quantities of highly enriched populations of mast cells can be generated from mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells using an in vitro differentiation system. These embryonic stem cell-derived mast cells (ESMCs) exhibit many similarities to mouse bone marrow-derived cultured mast cells (BMCMCs), including the abilities to survive and to orchestrate immunologically specific immunoglobulin E (IgE)-dependent reactions in vivo after transplantation into genetically mast cell—deficient KitW/KitW-v mice. Coupled with the current spectrum of techniques for genetically manipulating ES cells, ESMCs represent a unique model system to analyze the effects of specific alterations in gene structure, expression, or function, including embryonic lethal mutations, on mast cell development, phenotype, and function in vitro and in vivo.
Content-based isolation: rethinking isolation policy design on client systems

Modern client platforms, such as iOS, Android, Windows Phone, and Windows 8, have progressed from a per-user isolation policy, where users are isolated but a user's applications run in the same isolation container, to an application isolation policy, where different applications are isolated from one another. However, this is not enough because mutually distrusting content can interfere with one another inside a single application. For example, an attacker-crafted image may compromise a photo editor application and steal other images processed by the editor.In this paper, we advocate a content-based principal model in which the OS treats content owners as its principals and isolates content of different owners from one another. Our key contribution is to generalize the content-based principal model from web browsers, namely, the same-origin policy, into an isolation policy that is suitable for all applications. The key challenge we faced is to support flexible isolation granularities while remaining compatible with the web. In this paper, we present the design, implementation, and evaluation of our prototype system that tackles this challenge.
hp-Vector finite element method for eigenmode analysis of waveguides

A new stable variational formulation for full-wave analysis of waveguides is presented. Numerical experiments show that the method remains stable at very low frequencies. Theoretical results apply to a wide class of vector finite elements including two families of Nedelec [Numer. Math. 35 (1980) 315; Numer. Math. 50 (1986) 57] and their generalization, hp-edge elements [Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg. 152 (1998) 103; Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Engrg. 169 (1999) 331].
COLOR CENTERS IN ADDITIVELY COLORED CsBr

Color centers have been studied in CsBr single crystals additively colored with potassium or cesium. More than ten absorption bands were produced, most of which had previously been found in crystals colored by ionizing radiation. All bands produced by irradiation at or above liquid nitrogen temperature appear to arise from trapped electrons. The most prominent bands in the additively colored crystals are the $F$ band at 642 m\ensuremath{\mu} (liquid nitrogen temperature) and a band at 243 m\ensuremath{\mu} which appears to be due to an impurity. Optically bleaching the $F$ band at 200\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K produces bands analogous to the $M$ and $R$ bands in other alkali halides while bleaching at liquid nitrogen temperature yields a broad band identified as the ${F}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ band. Evidence that the asymmetry of the $F$ band arises from several states of the $F$ center is presented.
Determining the classics in social choice

Determination of classic papers and books in any field is of interest and importance to scholars and others interested in the subject areas. Since social/public choice is such a rapidly growing field of increasing importance it seems particularly relevant that we pay tribute to the founders. One means of doing this is to analyze citations to their most important works. This process allows us to simultaneously observe the depth and breadth to which the seminal ideas in the sub-discipline have penetrated the world of social science scholarship. My methodology produces somewhat different results than those reported in the 1981 Public Choice paper by Downing and Stafford. This is not to say that their method is inferior, but that different methods produce differing results which provide readers with a wider range of information about important works in social choice.
Simulation of non-uniform wafer geometry and thin film residual stress on overlay errors

The deposition of residually stressed films in semiconductor manufacturing processes introduces elastic distortions in the wafer that can contribute to overlay errors in lithographic patterning. The distortion induced by film deposition causes out-of-plane distortion (i.e. wafer shape) that can be measured with commercial metrology tools as well as in-plane distortion that leads to overlay errors. In the present work, overlay errors and out-of-plane distortion of wafers resulting from residual stresses that are non-uniform over the area of wafer are examined using computational mechanics modeling. The results of these simulations are used to examine the correlations between wafer shape features and overlay errors. Specifically, connections between overlay errors and metrics based on the slope of the wafer shape are assessed.
Inhibition of growth in oral squamous carcinoma cells by cyclopentenone prostaglandins: comparison with chemotherapeutic agents

Abstract Four cyclopentenone prostaglandins (CPPGs) and PGE 2 caused significant dose-dependent inhibition in growth of human oral squamous carcinoma cells (SCC-15). The rank order of their potency was PGJ 2 >PGA 1 >16, 16-dimethyl PGA 1 >PGA 2 >PGE 2 . In a follow-up experiment it was found that the mean per cent inhibition in cell growth by PGJ 2 and Δ 12 -PGJ 2 at 10 −5 M was 61.22 and 63.81, while that of 5-fluorouracil and methotrexate was 36.67 and 38.86, respectively. Δ 12 -PGJ 2 and PGJ 2 induced significant dose-dependent inhibition in nuclear DNA synthesis (i.e. cell proliferation). Combining vitamin E succinate with lower concentrations of CPPGs enhanced significantly their inhibitory effect on nuclear DNA synthesis of cancer cells.
An Aretaic Objection to Agricultural Biotechnology

Considerations of virtue and character appear from time to time in the agricultural biotechnology literature. Critics of the technologies often suggest that they are contrary to some virtue (usually humility) or do not fit with the image of ourselves and the human place in the world that we ought to embrace. In this article, I consider the aretaic or virtue-based objection that to engage in agricultural biotechnology is to exhibit arrogance, hubris, and disaffection. In section one, I discuss Gary Comstock's treatment of this objection. In section two, I provide an alternative interpretation of the objection that more accurately reflects the concerns of those who offer the criticism than does Comstock's standard interpretation. In sections three and four, I assess the objection. I argue that despite its merits, the objection does not justify global opposition to agricultural biotechnology. Instead, it favors a limited endorsement position not unlike the one defended by Comstock.
Interventions to improve adolescents' contraceptive behaviors in low- and middle-income countries: a review of the evidence base.

Abstract Objective (s) Many adolescents in developing countries have an unmet need for contraception, which can contribute to poor reproductive health outcomes. Recent literature reviews have not adequately captured effective contraceptive services and interventions for adolescents in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aims to identify and evaluate the existing evidence base on contraceptive services and interventions for adolescents in LMICs that report an impact on contraceptive behavior outcomes. Study Design Structured literature review of published and unpublished papers about contraceptive services and interventions for adolescents in LMICs that report an impact on contraceptive behavior outcomes. Results We identify common elements used by programs that measured an impact on adolescent contraceptive behaviors and summarize outcomes from 15 studies that met inclusion criteria. Effective programs generally combined numerous program approaches and addressed both user and service provision issues. Overall, few rigorous studies have been conducted in LMICs that measure contraceptive behaviors. Few interventions reach the young, the out of school and other vulnerable groups of adolescents. Conclusion (s) Though the evidence base is weak, there are promising foundations for adolescent contraceptive interventions in nearly every region of the world. We offer recommendations for programmers and identify gaps in the evidence base to guide future research.
Stimulating a Great Lakes coastal wetland seed bank using portable cofferdams: implications for habitat rehabilitation

Coastal wetland seed banks exposed by low lake levels or through management actions fuel the reestablishment of emergent plant assemblages (i.e., wetland habitat) critical to Great Lakes aquatic biota. This project explored the effectiveness of using portable, water-filled cofferdams as a management tool to promote the natural growth of emergent vegetation from the seed bank in a Lake Erie coastal wetland. A series of dams stretching approximately 450 m was installed temporarily to isolate hydrologically a 10-ha corner of the Crane Creek wetland complex from Lake Erie. The test area was dewatered in 2004 to mimic a low-water year, and vegetation sampling characterized the wetland seed bank response at low, middle, and high elevations in areas open to and protected from bird and mammal herbivory. The nearly two-month drawdown stimulated a rapid seed-bank-driven response by 45 plant taxa. Herbivory had little effect on plant species richness, regardless of the location along an elevation gradient. Inundation contributed to the replacement of immature emergent plant species with submersed aquatic species after the dams failed and were removed prematurely. This study revealed a number of important issues that must be considered for effective long-term implementation of portable cofferdam technology to stimulate wetland seed banks, including duration of dewatering, product size, source of clean water, replacement of damaged dams, and regular maintenance. This technology is a potentially important tool in the arsenal used by resource managers seeking to rehabilitate the functions and values of Great Lakes coastal wetland habitats.
Loss of mitochondrial complex I activity potentiates dopamine neuron death induced by microtubule dysfunction in a Parkinson’s disease model

Mitochondrial complex I dysfunction is regarded as underlying dopamine neuron death in Parkinson’s disease models. However, inactivation of the Ndufs4 gene, which compromises complex I activity, does not affect the survival of dopamine neurons in culture or in the substantia nigra pars compacta of 5-wk-old mice. Treatment with piericidin A, a complex I inhibitor, does not induce selective dopamine neuron death in either Ndufs4+/+ or Ndufs4−/− mesencephalic cultures. In contrast, rotenone, another complex I inhibitor, causes selective toxicity to dopamine neurons, and Ndufs4 inactivation potentiates this toxicity. We identify microtubule depolymerization and the accumulation of cytosolic dopamine and reactive oxygen species as alternative mechanisms underlying rotenone-induced dopamine neuron death. Enhanced rotenone toxicity to dopamine neurons from Ndufs4 knockout mice may involve enhanced dopamine synthesis caused by the accumulation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide reduced. Our results suggest that the combination of disrupting microtubule dynamics and inhibiting complex I, either by mutations or exposure to toxicants, may be a risk factor for Parkinson’s disease.
Quiescent LLC-PK1 cells as a model for cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) nephrotoxicity and modulation by thiol rescue agents

Confluent LLC-PK1 cells express many characteristics of renal proximal tubule epithelia. We report here the use of this cell line to investigate the possible mechanisms of cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) (DDP)-induced nephrotoxicity and diethyldithiocarbamate (DDTC) amelioration. Cells were exposed to platinum-based drug for 1 h and then incubated in drug-free medium until assayed. There was a 10-h delay between DDP exposure and onset of toxicity which then continued to develop. Viability at 72 h was 97 +/- 2 (SD), 68 +/- 3, 33 +/- 3, and 10 +/- 2% of control after treatment with 100, 200, 300, and 400 microM DDP, respectively. trans-Diamminedichloroplatinum(II) was 5-fold less toxic than DDP and diammine(1,1-cyclobutanedicarboxylato)platinum(II) (CBDCA) was nontoxic at concentrations up to 2.0 mM. Incubation of cells with DDTC (3 mM) for 1 h immediately following DDP exposure resulted in chelation of 43% of total intracellular platinum by DDTC and significantly increased 72 h viability; 97 +/- 2, 88 +/- 3, and 42 +/- 2% of control for 200, 300, and 400 microM DDP, respectively. DDP treatment of L1210 cells yielded equivalent total intracellular platinum levels, but Pt(DDTC)2 concentrations were one-tenth those in LLC-PK1 cells after subsequent treatment with DDTC (3 mM). Immediate reduction of protein and RNA, but not DNA, synthesis by DDP was concentration dependent over the same range as viability. DDP-induced increases in unscheduled DNA synthesis also did not correlate with cytotoxicity. The inhibition of protein synthesis was unchanged by pretreatment with the RNA synthesis inhibitor actinomycin D.DDTC (3 mM) exposure produced an immediate and persistent DDP dose modification of 1.6 in protein but not RNA synthesis. CBDCA (0.5 to 1.0 mM) had no effect on protein, RNA, or DNA synthesis and only slight stimulatory effects on unscheduled DNA synthesis. DDTC alone (3-3000 microM) caused significant reduction in DNA synthesis and unscheduled DNA synthesis. Neither sodium thiosulfate nor 2-mercaptoethane-sulfonate had any effect on DDP-induced cytotoxicity or inhibition of protein, RNA, or DNA synthesis when incubated immediately after DDP, even though these drugs achieved intracellular concentrations at which DDTC was protective. These data indicate that quiescent LLC-PK1 cells are a good in vitro model for the study of DDP-induced nephrotoxicity and its modulation by thiol rescue agents and that DDP inhibition and DDTC rescue of posttranscriptional processes correlate best with viability in LLC-PK1 cells.
Reticulocyte cellular indices: a new approach in the diagnosis of anemias and monitoring of erythropoietic function.

Reticulocyte analysis has been extended from the simple enumeration of reticulocytes to precise measurements of mRNA content and of cellular indices such as volume, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, a...