cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coincidence Theorem for the Direct Correlation Function of Hard-Particle Fluids

The Mayerf-function for purely hard particles of arbitrary shape satisfiesf 2(1, 2)=−f(1, 2). This relation can be introduced into the graphical expansion of the direct correlation functionc(1, 2) to obtain a graphical expression for the case of exact coincidence, in position and orientation, of two identical hard cores. The resulting expression forc(1, 1)+1 contains only graphsG fromc(1), the sum of irreducible graphs with one labeled point. Relative to its coefficient inc(1),G occurs inc(1, 1) with an additional factorR c which is 1 for the leading graph in the expansion and of the form 2−2L(G) for all other graphs. HereL(G)=0, 1, 2,..., is a nonnegative integer. Topological analysis is used to derive an expression forL(G) in terms of the connectivity properties ofG.
Engineered collagen-PEO nanofibers and fabrics.

Type I collagen-PEO fibers and non-woven fiber networks were produced by the electrospinning of a weak acid solution of purified collagen at ambient temperature and pressure. As determined by high-resolution SEM and TEM, fiber morphology was influenced by solution viscosity, conductivity, and flow rate. Uniform fibers with a diameter range of 100-150 nm were produced from a 2-wt% solution of collagen-PEO at a flow rate of 100 μl min-1. Ultimate tensile strength and elastic modulus of the resulting non-woven fabrics was dependent upon the chosen weight ratio of the collagen-PEO blend. 1H NMR dipolar magnetization transfer analysis suggested that the superior mechanical properties, observed for collagen-PEO blends of weight ratio 1 : 1, were due to the maximization of intermolecular interactions between the PEO and collagen components. The process outlined herein provides a convenient, non-toxic, non-denaturing approach for the generation collagen-containing nanofibers and non-woven fabrics that have potent...
Endothelial cell receptors

Abstract Vascular endothelium is situated at the interface between the blood and the tissues. It is a metabolically active and responsive surface that regulates a vast array of physiological functions. While its strategic situation represents an ideal site for therapeutic manipulations, its barrier functions pose limitations on delivery of drugs to extravascular sites. One way to target drugs to the endothelial surface is to take advantage of the wide range of receptors on endothelial cells. This article discusses endothelial receptors for vasoactive substances, hemostatic factors, immunologic factors, complement components, as well as binding sites, adhesion and recognition factors for leukocytes, and interactions with bacteria and other blood-borne particulates. An alternative approach is suggested by the fact that endothelial cells are particularly attractive vehicles for the delivery of functional gene products in vivo and would permit secretion of recombinant proteins from genetically engineered endothelial cells directly into the circulation, as is the case for normal endothelial secretory products. In addition, other properties of the normal endothelial cells, such as the processing of blood-borne substrates by cell-bound enzymes, suggest further avenues for novel approaches to gene therapy. Endothelial cells could be engineered to express a non-secreted recombinant protein that would inactivate toxic substances circulating in the blood, an approach that extends the concept of immobilized enzymes. Preliminary progress is being made with both approaches.
Improving the Efficiency of Video Coding by Using Perceptual Preprocessing Filter

We describe the design of a perceptual preprocessing filter for improving the effectiveness of video coding. This filter uses known parameters of the reproduction setup, such as viewing distance, pixel density, and contrast ratio of the screen, as well as a contrast sensitivity model of human vision to identify spatial oscillations that are invisible. By removing such oscillations the filter simplifies the video content, therefore leading to more efficient encoding without causing any visible alterations of the content. Through experiments, we demonstrate the use of our filter can yield significant bit rate savings compared to conventional encoding methods that are not tailored to specific viewing conditions.
A trip down the graphics pipeline: grandpa, what does 'viewport' mean?

The author describes how he extracted the desirable aspects of window-to-viewpoint transformation while discarding the disquieting ones. He examines the classic window-to-viewport transform, and discusses how it relates to the graphics pipeline he has discussed in the past. He then considers clipping and off-screen viewports. >
Sequence-specific liquid crystallinity of collagen model peptides. I. Transmission electron microscopy studies of interfacial collagen gels.

The conformation, crystal structure and self-assembly behavior of three peptides with collagen-like repetitive sequences [(1) peptide GAPGPP: (Glu)(5)(Gly-Ala-Pro-Gly-Pro-Pro)(6)(Glu)(5); (2) peptide GVPGPP: (Glu)(5)(Gly-Val-Pro-Gly-Pro-Pro)(6)(Glu)(5); and (3) peptide GAPGPA: (Glu)(5)(Gly-Ala-Pro-Gly-Pro-Ala)(6)(Glu)(5)] were compared. The peptides were characterized using transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction, environmental scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform ir spectroscopy in order to determine how the molecular geometry dictated by each sequence affects the spontaneous generation of long-range ordered structures. Samples of each peptide, at ambient temperature and at 5 degrees C, were examined as films dried from aqueous solution, air-water interfacial films, and chloroform-water interfacial films. Peptide GAPGPP prepared at 5 degrees C and dried from bulk solution was found to have a collagen-like triple-helical structure. A sinusoidally textured gel, suggestive of cholesteric behavior was observed for peptides GAPGPP and GVPGPP at the aqueous chloroform interface at 5 degrees C. Peptide GAPGPA also formed a gel, but less reproducibly and the sinusoidal texture was not as well defined. The periodicities of the sinusoidal textures were reproducibly 10 microm for peptide GAPGPP, 7 microm for peptide GVPGPP, and 6 microm for peptide GAPGPA. The differences in the periodicity of the banded structure and in the crystallization behavior of the three peptides is attributed to differences in the symmetry of the preferred packing arrangement for each peptide, as evidenced by electron diffraction from crystallites that coexist with the sinusoidal gel. These differences are believed to be a measure of the effective symmetry and shape of the molecular cross section.
How Big Are Potential Welfare Gains from International Sharing

There is extensive evidence that the degree of risksharing accomplished by international financial markets is low. Some have argued that this is the result of small potential benefits from risksharing. The gains from riskpooling that have been reported in the literature range from negligible to enormous. This paper documents to what extent the results are sensitive to the parameterization of preferences, and assumptions about the stochastic process and measurement of the endowment. We find that for realistic assumptions about the underlying factors, the potential gains from risksharing are quite sizable. For OECD countries they are equivalent to increases in tradables consumption in the range of 1.1 to 3.5 percent for a 50 year horizon, and 2.5 to 7.4 percent for a 100 year horizon.
Morphological adjustments promote drought avoidance in the wetland plant Acorus americanus

Abstract To evaluate drought avoidance and drought tolerance properties in the aquatic macrophyte sweet flag (Acorus americanus), dormant rhizomes were germinated and grown in 15 L microcosms under drought (ca. 10% soil moisture, by weight), moderate water (ca. 20% soil moisture), or flooded conditions (ca. 50% soil moisture). Four weeks after germination, tissue moisture content in plants receiving drought treatments had 29–37% less water in comparison to plants in moderate and flooded conditions. Furthermore, in comparison to well-watered treatments, water potentials (leaf [Ψleaf] and xylem [Ψxylem]) declined by as much as 0.6 MPa in plants with diminished water availabilities. Drought tolerance modifications were not observed among the lower water treatments, including lack of any significant differences in osmotic potentials (at saturated conditions [ Ψ π sat ] and turgor loss point [ Ψ π tlp ]) and bulk elastic modulus (ɛ). Nonetheless, drought avoidance modifications in plants experiencing both drought and moderate water availabilities were observed. Stomatal pores were approximately 4.1 μm shorter and 3.5 μm narrower in drought treated plants compared to flooded individuals. In addition to smaller pores, drought treated plants had approximately 100 fewer stomates mm−2 than flooded plants. Above- and belowground biomass was also lower in drought treated plants in comparison to flooded plants, including a 46 and 73% reduction in below- and aboveground biomass, respectively. Therefore, while many plants use a combination of both drought tolerance and drought avoidance in response to low soil water availabilities, avoidance is the dominant response in Acorus during extended periods of water deprivation.
COBALAMIN INACTIVATION DECREASES PURINE AND METHIONINE SYNTHESIS IN CULTURED HUMAN LYMPHOBLASTS: 22

COBALAMIN INACTIVATION DECREASES PURINE AND METHIONINE SYNTHESIS IN CULTURED HUMAN LYMPHOBLASTS: 22
Signaling through cAMP and cAMP-dependent protein kinase: Diverse strategies for drug design

The catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase has served as a prototype for the protein kinase superfamily for many years while structures of the cAMP-bound regulatory subunits have defined the conserved cyclic nucleotide binding (CNB) motif. It is only structures of the holoenzymes, however, that enable us to appreciate the molecular features of inhibition by the regulatory subunits as well as activation by cAMP. These structures reveal for the first time the remarkable malleability of the regulatory subunits and the CNB domains. At the same time, they allow us to appreciate that the catalytic subunit is not only a catalyst but also a scaffold that mediates a wide variety of protein:protein interactions. The holoenzyme structures also provide a new paradigm for designing isoform-specific activators and inhibitors of PKA. In addition to binding to the catalytic subunits, the regulatory subunits also use their N-terminal dimerization/docking domain to bind with high affinity to A Kinase Anchoring Proteins using an amphipathic helical motif. This targeting mechanism, which localizes PKA near to its protein substrates, is also a target for therapeutic intervention of PKA signaling.
Fourteen Spelling Strategies for Students with Learning Disabilities

Presents teacher-directed and student study techniques, based on research in spelling and motivation, for optimizing spelling instruction
Antimicrobial susceptibility of Pneumocystis carinii in culture

Abstract Pneumocystis carinii from infected rats were cultured on infected WI-38 human lung fibroblasts. After cultures were established, medium was replaced by medium containing antimicrobials and supernate organisms counted at specified times. Results show that metronidazole had no effect, amphotericin B suppressed organisms at 5 but not 0.5 μg/ml, and miconazole, chloroquine, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and pentamidine isethionate suppressed organisms at the concentrations tested.
Phytoplankton biomass and productivity in the Amazon River plume: correlation with seasonal river discharge

Abstract Phytoplankton biomass and primary productivity were assessed on the continental shelf in the plume of the Amazon River during a series of cruises conducted within periods of minimum, maximum, rising and falling river discharge. Chlorophyll concentrations were greatest (up to 25.5 μg l −1 ) in a zone located outside the turbid, high nutrient, low salinity riverine waters but shoreward of the clear, high salinity, low nutrient waters. Vertical distributions of chlorophyll further delineated the influences of these environmental regimes, with maximum chlorophyll concentrations occurring in the upper 5 m of water columns characterized by reduced salinities and elevated nutrients at the surface and low nutrient, high salinity water below. Fluorescence was elevated in the transition zone as a result of the phytoplankton standing stocks, and was also elevated in low-salinity waters influenced by the Amazon outflow. The residual fluorescence was coupled to salinity but not to chlorophyll, which suggested that it was related to dissolved organic matter which originated in the Amazon. Primary productivity on the continental shelf was greatest in the transition zone and occasionally exceeded 8 g C m −2 d −1 . Productivity in the turbid, nutrient-rich waters and the clear, offshore regions averaged 2.18 and 0.81 g C m −1 d −1 , respectively. Phytoplankton photosynthesis in waters influenced by the Amazon River appeared to be limited by low levels of available irradiance inshore, whereas offshore it was nutrient-limited. The narrow zone of high production was supported by the riverine input of nutrients and the dynamics of sediment flocculation. Removal of the inorganic sediment load was necessary to allow for adequate irradiance penetration to support photosynthesis.
Subplate Neurons Regulate Maturation of Cortical Inhibition and Outcome of Ocular Dominance Plasticity

Synaptic plasticity during critical periods of development requires intact inhibitory circuitry. We report that subplate neurons are needed both for maturation of inhibition and for the proper sign of ocular dominance (OD) plasticity. Removal of subplate neurons prevents the developmental upregulation of genes involved in mature, fast GABAergic transmission in cortical layer 4, including GABA receptor subunits and KCC2, and thus prevents the switch to a hyperpolarizing effect of GABA. To understand the implications of these changes, a realistic circuit model was formulated. Simulations predicted that without subplate neurons, monocular deprivation (MD) paradoxically favors LGN axons representing the deprived (less active) eye, exactly what was then observed experimentally. Simulations also account for published results showing that OD plasticity requires mature inhibition. Thus, subplate neurons regulate molecular machinery required to establish an adult balance of excitation and inhibition in layer 4, and thereby influence the outcome of OD plasticity.
Numerical simulation of stochastic gene circuits

Armed with increasingly fast supercomputers and greater knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of gene expression, it is now practical to numerically simulate complex networks of regulated biological reactions, or gene circuits. Using an exact stochastic simulation algorithm, we obtain an accurate time-evolution of the behavior of complex gene circuits, including the effects of fluctuations caused by highly dilute, but significant, regulatory proteins. Specifically, we examine an important gene circuit, the bistable switch, and use the stochastic simulation algorithm to develop design principles that will enable us to produce a fast and robust switch for use in future applications. We pay particular attention to different transcriptional control mechanisms and their effects on the amount of fluctuations in the system, emphasizing methods that increase certainty and improve the switching rate. © 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Resource Planning for Dynamic Traffic Grooming in WDM Optical Networks

Dynamic traffic grooming in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) optical networks refers to consolidating dynamically arriving subwavelength connections onto lightpaths. Most studies on dynamic traffic grooming focused on designing effective algorithms to achieve better performance (typically blocking probability) with given resources such as wavelengths and transponders. In this paper, we study the reverse problem: given the blocking requirement in dynamic traffic grooming, how to determine the resources needed to meet this requirement. We call it resource planning for dynamic traffic grooming. It is raised in a situation that after the initial deployment of optical networks, service providers often need to upgrade resources to accommodate increasing traffic demands. We formulate it as an ILP problem, and developed heuristics to solve this problem for large networks. Numerical results show that the heuristics can achieve good performance, and network resources increase slowly when requiring lower client call blocking probability.
Representing and exploiting data parallelism using multidimensional dataflow diagrams

The author shows how a graphical programming environment like those commonly used for signal processing can expose data parallelism. In particular, he sets objectives for the syntax and semantics of graphical programs. It is shown that the synchronous dataflow model can be extended to multidimensional streams to represent and exploit data parallelism in signal processing applications. The resulting semantics are related to reduced dependence graphs used in systolic array design and to the stream-oriented functional languages Lucid, Sisal, and Silage. Formal properties are developed. >
Modules to introduce assertions and loop invariants informally within CS1: experiences and observations

Over the past several years, the author has written, used, and refined several modules that help introduce the concepts of assertions and loop invariants within CS1. After discussing the motivation for this work, this paper describes the development of the modules themselves, including both successes and disappointments. Feedback from students and the observation of students within a lab setting may shed light on the background and perspectives of introductory computer science students. This work also suggests some preliminary conclusions, which might be worthy of more formal, carefully-controlled validation studies in the future.
One or Many? The Influence of Episodic and Thematic Climate Change Frames on Policy Preferences and Individual Behavior Change

Drawing from framing theory, this study examines how describing the impact of climate change on polar bears with an episodic or thematic frame may affect predispositions for individual behavior change and support for policies to address climate change. The study finds that participants exposed to a thematic frame had more support for policies that address climate change than participants exposed to an episodic frame. There was no framing effect for predispositions for individual behavior change. Implications for communicating climate change to the general public are discussed.
Nonlinear compression of giant surface acoustic wave pulses

Abstract The nonlinear propagation of very high-amplitude surface acoustic wave (SAW) pulses in polycrystalline aluminum and copper was studied. A nonlinear compression and an increase of the SAW pulse amplitude have been observed. SAW pulses were numerically simulated with a nonlinear evolution equation including local and nonlocal nonlinear terms.
Selective Inhibition of Deoxyribonucleic Acid Synthesis by 2-Deoxyadenosine in the Blue-Green Bacterium Agmenellum quadruplicatum

Concentrations of deoxyadenosine which have little effect on net ribonucleic acid (RNA) synthesis or on increase in cell mass selectively inhibit deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis in Agmenellum quadruplicatum. Exogenously supplied deoxyadenosine, at concentrations above 10 mug/ml, stimulates DNA degradation. These results are correlated with a rapid loss in viability. Over a narrow concentration range (6-15 mug/ml), deoxyadenosine impairs the division process and induces the formation of elongated cells. Low exogenous concentrations of deoxyadenosine are readily incorporated into both DNA and RNA, with the major portion as DNA.
Importance of Image Review for Accurate Reporting of Hologic DXA Visceral Adipose Tissue

Aims: Increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT) volume is strongly associated with several serious metabolic diseases including heart disease and diabetes, and also to fracture risk. Accurate measure of this soft tissue compartment is imperative if it is to be included in clinical risk models. Hologic software, version Apex 4.0, now includes a VAT estimate from whole body scans. Although the analysis is automated, the region is visible and allows for manual adjustment if necessary. The aim of our study was to evaluate how often the VAT region needed adjustment and what would be the error if no manual adjustment is made. Methods: We reanalyzed a subset of the NHANES study whole body scans (20112012) to include VAT volume to the study results. These NHANES participants are considered a representative sample of the US population from ages 18 years to 59 years old. All scans were analyzed using Hologic version Apex 4.0 auto-analysis mode and manually reviewed for proper VAT region placement. VAT regions needing correction were manually adjusted. Paired T-tests were used to determine the difference in error between the auto and manual analyses for VAT and subcutaneous adipose tissue volume (SAT). Results: A total 3283 adult whole body scans were reviewed. VAT boundary marker adjustment was required on 247, or approximately 8% of the scans. The average difference between manual and auto analysis for both VAT and SAT were significantly different (p!0.0001) with VAT being -17.9 34.8 cm and SAT higher +18.0 35.5 cm. Absolute differences ranged from -213.7 to 145.8 cm and -145.8 to 213.7 cm for VAT and SAT, respectively. Conclusion: Our results confirm that for VAT and SAT regions, it is imperative to visualize the and check the region demarcations to assure high accuracy. Failure to do this necessary quality control review could lead to clinically inaccurate results in 1 out of 12 patients. Disclosure of Interest: None Declared
Providing SeaSonde high-resolution surface currents for the America's Cup

The selection of San Francisco Bay as the venue for the 2013 America's Cup competition provides the opportunity to highlight the technology available for measuring surface currents over the entire proposed racecourse and to deliver current estimates in near real-time. Using an array of CODAR Ocean Sensors SeaSonde 42 MHz systems, the currents in Central San Francisco Bay can be mapped in high spatial resolution with a temporal resolution of 30 minutes.
Discharge of saccade-related superior colliculus neurons during saccades accompanied by vergence

It has long been believed that the superior colliculus (SC) is involved in the production of saccades but plays no role in the generation of vergence eye movements. However, results from several recent studies suggest that it may be worthwhile to examine the role of the SC in saccade-vergence interactions. Specifically, the available literature suggests two questions: do saccade-related neurons in SC have three-dimensional movement fields and is the slowing of saccades by vergence attributable, in part, to changes in the level of activity in SC? Single-unit data were recorded from 51 saccade-related neurons in rhesus monkey SC during saccades without vergence, saccades accompanied by convergence, and saccades accompanied by divergence. Most cells (78% for convergence, 86% for divergence) showed a significant reduction in peak spike density when the saccade was accompanied by vergence. A minority of cells (16% for convergence, 2% for divergence) increased their firing rate for saccades accompanied by vergence. Three cells were found that discharged in association with saccades, vergence, and the combination of the two. There were no cells that exhibited the pattern of discharge that would be expected of a cell tuned for saccades with divergence. Thus the present results do not support the hypothesis that saccade-related SC neurons are, as a rule, tuned in three dimensions. Small, but significant, differences in firing rate were often found for saccades without vergence at near and far distances. Approximately half of the cells showed a significant relationship between spike activity and saccade velocity, but the correlations tended to be very weak. This suggests that the decreased neuronal activity of SC neurons has only a limited effect on saccade velocity. For some cells, the movement field shifted for saccades with vergence. These shifts were highly variable from one cell to another.
Comparison of direct interview and family history diagnoses of alcohol dependence

Using data from The Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism, we compare direct interview diagnoses of alcohol dependence to those obtained by history from family members. Using a requirement of three or more positive implications by history, the specificity, sensitivity, and positive predictive values are 98%, 39%, and 45%, respectively. A logistic analysis found the gender of the relative and alcoholism in the informant to be significant, but not the gender of the informant. The partial odds ratio of a diagnosis at interview associated with a positive family history diagnosis was 13.6. The relationship between the informant and relative was significant, with negative reports from an offspring or mate more influential than a negative report from a parent or second-degree relative. We derived a recursive equation to combine a variable number of family history reports, wherein the probabilities associated with a single report are computed from the logistic analysis. This permits the use of family history information both as a proxy for an uninterviewed relative, as well as a second source of information to be used in the analysis of genetic family data.
Tbr2 Is Essential for Hippocampal Lineage Progression from Neural Stem Cells to Intermediate Progenitors and Neurons

Neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus has been implicated in cognitive functions, including learning and memory, and may be abnormal in major neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression. Dentate neurogenesis is regulated by interactions between extrinsic factors and intrinsic transcriptional cascades that are currently not well understood. Here we show that Tbr2 (also known as Eomes), a T-box transcription factor expressed by intermediate neuronal progenitors (INPs), is critically required for neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of developing and adult mice. In the absence of Tbr2, INPs are depleted despite augmented neural stem cell (NSC) proliferation, and neurogenesis is halted as the result of failed neuronal differentiation. Interestingly, we find that Tbr2 likely promotes lineage progression from NSC to neuronal-specified INP in part by repression of Sox2, a key determinant of NSC identity. These findings suggest that Tbr2 expression in INPs is critical for neuronal differentiation in the dentate gyrus and that INPs are an essential stage in the lineage from NSCs to new granule neurons in the dentate gyrus.
Managerial compensation: Luck, skill or labor markets? ☆

Abstract Luck, skill and labor markets all have empirical support as determinants of managerial compensation. We examine the relative importance of pay for luck, managerial skill and labor market opportunities in determining compensation. We measure luck as the predictable component of firm performance, measure skill using managerial fixed effects and measure labor market opportunities as the compensation of executives at matched firms. Our results imply that managerial skill is the most important determinant of managers' compensation, followed by firm size and labor market opportunities, and that luck is not an important determinant of managerial compensation.
Modeling the Drying Process of Unbound Soils and Cementitiously Stabilized Soils

Moisture variation significantly affects the strength and volume characteristics of soils. One of the barriers to implementing the stiffness-based quality assurance during construction is the variation (often drying) of moisture, which complicates the measurements of stiffness. Studies on the drying of unbound soils and cementitiously stabilized soils typically have focused on the measurement of moisture content or shrinkage, without an in-depth understanding of the drying mechanisms. An accurate characterization of the process of moisture loss in soils and cementitiously stabilized soils during drying is critical to predicting properties such as strength, stiffness, creep, and shrinkage and, therefore, is critical to understanding the engineering performance of such soils. This paper proposes a practical approach to model the moisture loss of soils and cementitiously stabilized soils under one-dimensional drying conditions at a constant temperature. The moisture loss is affected by the ambient relative h...
A fast, on-line collision avoidance method for a kinematically redundant manipulator based on reflex control

A computationally efficient method to achieve reflexive collision avoidance is described. The system consists of four parallel, asynchronous control layers: a conventional servo tracking controller, a reactive trapezoidal velocity profiler, a joint-by-joint reflexive collision avoidance layer, and a guiding potential-function layer. The lowest two layers guarantee that the robot will not overshoot any joint-space position setpoint. The higher two layers compute successive set points based on a continuous, online inspection of configuration space. The guiding potential-function layer incorporates task-space-based attraction to a hand goal, while the reflexes permit use of kinematic redundancy for obstacle avoidance. In many cases, no explicit path planning is required to achieve competent, collision-free motion to a task-space goal while moving in a cluttered environment. Experimental results are described for the physical implementation of the system on the first four joints of a kinematically redundant robot. >
Influence of estradiol on micturition thresholds in the rat: involvement of the hypogastric nerve

Studies have shown that the severity of bladder hyperreflexia induced by acute bladder inflammation varies with the ovarian cycle. These results suggest that the hyperreflexia is modulated by ovari...
The Value of Venue in Corporate Litigation: Evidence from Exclusive Forum Provisions

In response to the increased threat of shareholder litigation filed in multiple states, firms have adopted exclusive forum provisions which limit lawsuits to a single venue of the board of director’s choice. It is unclear whether these provisions impose increased costs on shareholders’ ability to discipline managers and directors or provide benefits to shareholders by eliminating duplicative lawsuits. I use the Delaware Chancery Court’s announcement upholding the adoption of these provisions as a natural experiment to evaluate their wealth implications. Overall, my findings suggest that exclusive forum provisions create value for shareholders by specifying a required venue for corporate litigation.
Difficulties in administering and evaluating a 3-minute step test modified for a clinical population.

Objective: Measurement of aerobic capacity is an important issue in clinical and research settings. We report on the design, use and attrition rate of a 3-minutes step test modified from the Queens College Step test that we hoped to use as an inexpensive and brief indicator of cardiovasular endurance. Design: We conducted a cohort survey and epidemiological study. Setting: Two academic medical practices and three community clinics in Cleveland Ohio and Chicago Illinois. Participants: Study population included a clinical sample of 1,234 White, Black, English-speaking and Spanish-speaking Hispanic adults aged 45-64. Methods: After two modifications of the Queens College Step test we used a 10 inch step height and a cadence of 23 steps per minute to represent our 3-minute step test. Subjects were stopped when they a) completed three minutes, b) when heart rates exceeded 80% of maximal predicted heart rate or reported nausea, dizziness or chest pain, or c) if they requested to stop. Main Outcome Measurements: Main outcome measures were completion, dropout and stop rates. Results: A total of 28% of subjects were able to complete the test, 36% had to be stopped when heart rates were excessive. The remainder either refused to attempt the test (13%) or requested to stop for symptoms of pain or fatigue (23%). Men and non-Hispanic whites were more likely to complete the test. Conclusion: Existing fixed cadence step tests that are ungraded are particularly problematic for assessing aerobic capacity/fitness in a clinical population because of high dropout rates during testing. Further exploration of self-paced tests should focus on the ability of subjects to complete the tests and the validity of those tests to predict aerobic capacity.
Agonism and Territoriality in the California Ground Squirrel

A field study of the California ground squirrel, Spermophilus beecheyi , was conducted to quantify agonistic and territorial behaviors. Adult males were usually dominant over adult females. Adult males and females were intrasexually agonistic during the prebreeding, breeding, and early pregnancy periods. Resident adult males were territorial towards intruding males, but in two cases two males may have been co-dominant. The ranges of some resident adult males overlapped much of the ranges of one or more “associated” adult females. Adult males courted and appeared to guard adult females during the mating season. Characteristics of agonistic behaviors and intersexual interactions were examined to evaluate likely explanations for the evolution of intrasexual agonistic behaviors. Adult male California ground squirrels may be territorial to procure and sequester mates, whereas adult females may be agonistic to procure and sequester environmental resources. Resources so procured may affect the survival of offspring.
Surgery of the heart and great vessels in the newborn period. Review of 450 cases.

The authors review a series of 450 operations performed during the first year of life on infants with congenital defects of the heart and great vessels. Both closed and open-heart technics were used in various operations designed to correct the anomalies completely or to diminish their deleterious hemodynamic effects. The survival of 72 per cent of these infants demonstrates the advisability of surgical therapy when medical management is not effective in relieving hypoxemia and heart failure.
Analysis of Sanitary Quality of Blood Dialysis Water in Hospital in Hengyang City during 2003～2007

Objective To study the sanitary quality of blood dialysis water used in hospitals of Hengyang City.Methods Pyrogen,total bacteria count,and altogether 22 physical and chemical indexes including calcium,chloride,fluoride,zinc,sodium and others in the blood dialysate water samples from blood dialysis rooms of 13 hospitals in Hengyang City were evaluated.The data were evaluated and analyzed on the standards for the blood dialysate recommendation of ASAIO and AAMI.Results Only the blood dialysate samples from 6 hospitals were completely met with the sanitary quality,which was accounted 46.15% only.The qualified rates were 94.87%,96.58%,98.29%,94.01%,99.14%,100%,and 100% for total count of bacteria,pyrogen,calcium,chloride,fluoride,zinc,and sodium among the blood dialysate samples respectively.The qualified rate of blood dialysis water from 3A grade hospitals was 93.33%,which was significantly higher than that from the 2A grade hospitals(76.38%),(X2=5.6,P0.05).Conclusions The low qualified rates of dialysate water in hospitals of Hengyang City are pyrogen,total bacterial count and chloride.The sanitary quality of dialysis water in hospitals is associated with the timely improvement and disinfection of the filtering sand,ion-exchange resin,tubes and water storage tanks.
Application and Integrated Economic Analysis of On-load Capacity Regulating Transformer

The applicable range of on-load capacity regulating transformer is given according to its running characteristics and structure,and the capacity regulating principle is analyzed.Integrated economic and application analyses of SZ11-T type on-load capacity regulating transformers are performed and compared with common S11 type distribution transformers,including annual operation expense,payback period of investment,and total owning cost.Considering the practical application of 10 kV distribution transformers,two application schemes for the on-load capacity regulating transformer are proposed.In addition,some suggestions are offered to improve the measurement precision of the capacity regulating transformers
Predicting the probability of successful efficacy of a dissociated agonist of the glucocorticoid receptor from dose–response analysis

PF-04171327 is a dissociated agonist of the glucocorticoid receptor (DAGR) being developed to retain anti-inflammatory efficacy while reducing unwanted effects. Our aim was to conduct a longitudinal dose–response analysis to identify the DAGR doses with efficacy similar to or greater than prednisone 10 mg once daily (QD). The data included were from a Phase 2, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study in 323 subjects with active rheumatoid arthritis on a background of methotrexate. Subjects received DAGR 1, 5, 10 or 15 mg, prednisone 5 or 10 mg, or placebo QD for 8 weeks. The Disease Activity Score 28-4 calculated using C-Reactive Protein (DAS28-4 CRP) was the efficacy endpoint utilized in this dose–response model. For DAGR, the maximum effect (Emax) on DAS28-4 CRP was estimated to be −1.2 points (95 % CI −1.7, −0.84), and the evaluated dose range provided 31–87 % of the Emax; for prednisone 5 and 10 mg, the estimated effects were −0.27 (95 % CI −0.55, 0.006) and −0.94 point (95 % CI −1.3, −0.59), respectively. Stochastic simulations indicated that the DAGR 1, 5, 10 and 15 mg have probabilities of 0.9, 29, 54 and 62 %, respectively, to achieve efficacy greater than prednisone 10 mg at week 8. DAGR 9 mg estimated probability was 50 % suggesting that DAGR ≥9 mg QD has an effect on DAS28-4 CRP comparable to or greater than prednisone 10 mg QD. This work informs dose selection for late-stage confirmatory trials.
Effects of acute and chronic hypoxia on rat lung cyclooxygenase

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is an inducible cyclooxygenase enzyme and may play an important role in the pathogenesis of lung injury and in pulmonary vascular remodeling. In this study we determined the effects of acute or chronic hypoxia on COX-2 induction and its modulation by .NO and adenosine 3'-5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP). Isolated perfused rat lungs were exposed to a normoxic gas mixture or a hypoxic gas mixture for 3 h. Northern blot analysis showed that 3 h of acute hypoxia were sufficient to increase COX-2 but not COX-1 transcripts in the lung. COX-2 expression induced by acute hypoxia was enhanced by an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, and was suppressed by sodium nitroprusside, meclofenamate, and H-7 (an inhibitor of protein kinase A and C). COX-2 expression was also enhanced by dibutyryl cAMP and iloprost, a prostacyclin analogue. In contrast, 2 wk of chronic hypobaric hypoxia did not enhance COX-2 expression in the lung, but increased COX-2 protein levels, as assessed by Western blots. We conclude that acute hypoxia induces COX-2 gene expression in rat lung and that COX-2 induction by acute hypoxia is modulated by .NO, cAMP, and cyclooxygenase products. In particular, prostacyclin produced by the lung during hypoxia or shear stress induces lung COX-2 expression via a positive feedback mechanism.
Examining the Environmental Characteristics of Drug Dealing Locations

Illicit drug dealers who operate in open-air markets must access customers in the face of risks posed by law enforcement, customers, and competitors. However, researchers purport that the environmental characteristics of certain locations may allow dealers to balance these competing demands. This research utilizes risk terrain modeling to identify the environmental characteristics of drug dealing locations in Chicago, Illinois, and compares these characteristics across different types of drugs. Results show that a number of place features increase the risk of drug dealing. Although many of these features are common to locations for all types of drug dealing, there are some variations. The findings provide insight into the environmental context of drug market locations, which has implications for researchers and practitioners.
Multicolor Labeling in Developmental Gene Regulatory Network Analysis

The sea urchin embryo is an important model system for developmental gene regulatory network (GRN) analysis. This chapter describes the use of multicolor fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) as well as a combination of FISH and immunohistochemistry in sea urchin embryonic GRN studies. The methods presented here can be applied to a variety of experimental settings where accurate spatial resolution of multiple gene products is required for constructing a developmental GRN.
Interstitial pregnancy; a survey of 45 cases.

Abstract 1. 1. An analysis of 45 cases of interstitial pregnancy has been presented. These were obtained from a total group of 944 ectopic pregnancies of all varieties, an incidence of 4.7 per cent. 2. 2. There was one death, a mortality rate for interstitial pregnancy of 2.2 per cent. 3. 3. Perforation occurred most frequently between the fifth and twelfth weeks of gestation, contrary to the general impression of late rupture. 4. 4. Transmigration of the ovum was noted in 26.7 per cent of the cases. 5. 5. The most frequent complaint was abdominal pain. Amenorrhea, anomalous vaginal bleeding, and shock were other important signs and symptoms. 6. 6. Profound shock appeared in 71.2 per cent of the patients with cornual perforation. This was the result of massive intraperitoneal hemorrhage. 7. 7. The diagnosis of interstitial pregnancy is seldom made prior to rupture. Tender cystic enlargement at one horn of the uterus is suggestive of this type of ectopic gestation. 8. 8. During laparotomy an interstitial pregnancy may be recognized by asymmetric enlargement of the uterus superior to the insertion of the round ligament, without a corresponding enlargement of the rest of the organ. 9. 9. Treatment is immediate surgery and blood transfusion. Because of the greater speed with which it usually can be accomplished, and because control of hemorrhage is almost immediate, hysterectomy is preferable to cornual resection of an extensive laceration.
The interaction of falling and sessile drops on a hydrophobic surface

Abstract The dynamic behavior of drops impacting surfaces, liquid films or pools, and moving drops has been previously investigated; however, the behavior of falling drops impacting a sessile drop at rest has been explored to a lesser degree. In this work the coalescence, spreading, and recoil following the concentric impact between a falling water drop and a sessile water drop is studied on a Teflon substrate (hydrophobic). The influence of the Weber number, We, on drop spreading is the primary focus. For experiments at We ∼ 200, the impacts results in drops that spread a maximum diameter and then recoil to a final equilibrium diameter. At lower Weber numbers the drops spread to a maximum diameter, then recoil, and then undergo a second spreading event to the final equilibrium diameter. These observations suggest that at higher Weber numbers more energy is dissipated in the deformation of the liquid volume that occurs via crown formation, contact line movement, and spreading. Experimental observations are compared with analytical predictions based on conservation of energy with two treatments of energy dissipation. Analytical predictions for the maximum spread diameter are within 10% of measurement and indicate that approximately one half of the kinetic energy of the impacting drop is dissipated in the approach to maximum spreading diameter.
Metabolic Production of H 2 O 2 in Carcinogenesis and Cancer Treatment

The metabolic production of O2•− and H2O2 in the presence of redox active metal ions is known to contribute to several steps involved with initiation, promotion, and progression of carcinogenesis that can induce genomic instability, promotion of the transformed phenotype, and rapid cancer cell growth as well as progression to an aggressively malignant phenotype. However, when the metabolic production of H2O2 can be further increased selectively in cancer vs. normal cells using pharmacological approaches, H2O2 can enhance tumoricidal responses to traditional cancer therapies by selectively increasing metabolic oxidative stress. In this way, the metabolic production of H2O2 can be considered as a double-edged sword that can exert both detrimental and beneficial effects in cancer biology and therapy. This chapter discusses critical mechanistic details surrounding the pleiotropic effects of H2O2-induced metabolic oxidative stress in cancer biology and therapy that could be used to develop novel biochemical rationales for controlling cancer in humans.
Letter to the editor: Why persist in the fallacy that mean systemic pressure drives venous return?

to the editor: The work of Berger et al. ([3][1]), recently published in the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology , has at its core the idea that steady-state venous return (F) is driven through the resistance to venous return (Rven) by the difference between mean systemic
Cognitive Therapy: Nature and Relation to Behavior Therapy – Republished Article☆☆☆

Recent innovations in behavior modification have, for the most part, detoured around the role of cognitive processes in the production and alleviation of symptomatology. Although self-reports of private experiences are not verifiable by other observers, these introspective data provide a wealth of testable hypotheses. Repeated correlations of measures of inferred constructs with observable behaviors have yielded consistent findings in the predicted direction. Systematic study of self-reports suggests that an individual's belief systems, expectancies, and assumptions exert a strong influence on his state of well-being, as well as on his directly observable behavior. Applying a cognitive model, the clinician may usefully construe neurotic behavior in terms of the patient's idiosyncratic concepts of himself and of his animate and inanimate environment. The individual's belief systems may be grossly contradictory; i.e., he may simultaneously attach credence to both realistic and unrealistic conceptualizations of the same event or object. This inconsistency in beliefs may explain, for example, why an individual may react with fear to an innocuous situation even though he may concomitantly acknowledge that this fear is unrealistic. Cognitive therapy, based on cognitive theory, is designed to modify the individual's idiosyncratic, maladaptive ideation. The basic cognitive technique consists of delineating the individual's specific misconceptions, distortions, and maladaptive assumptions, and of testing their validity and reasonableness. By loosening the grip of his perseverative, distorted ideation, the patient is enabled to formulate his experiences more realistically. Clinical experience, as well as some experimental studies, indicate that such cognitive restructuring leads to symptom relief.
A forgotten cause of wide complex tachycardia

Wide complex tachycardia secondary to an acute overdose from TCA's is a well-documented phenomenon. In this case we present a wide complex tachycardia after clear documentation of no acute overdose, which responded to standard treatment for TCA toxicity. These findings combined with chronic electrocardiographic abnormalities were suggestive of an acute on chronic TCA toxicity.