cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influences on the beneficial effect of neurostimulation

Neurostimulation, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) shows promise in improving and maintaining cognition in both neurotypical and patient populations. This technique administer...
Therapy of Acute Otitis Media Caused by Branhamella catarrhalis

Since 1980, we have observed an increased incidence of otitis media caused by Branhamella catarrhalis. The outcome of therapy of acute otitis media caused by this organism has been studied in a number of randomised clinical trials. 75% of isolates produced β-lactamase. Failure to sterilise B. catarrhalis-infected middle ear exudates occurred in 3 of 11 patients treated with amoxycillin or bacampicillin, 2 of 19 treated with cefaclor, but in no patients treated with co-trimoxazole (n = 10) or amoxycillin-clavulanic acid (Augmentin), [n = 9]. All treatment failures were associated with β-lactamase-producing strains of B. catarrhalis.
Ethical Risk Sensitivity of Adolescents in Legal Difficulty: First Contact and Repeat Contact Groups

(1971). Ethical Risk Sensitivity of Adolescents in Legal Difficulty: First Contact and Repeat Contact Groups. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 83, No. 2, pp. 213-217.
Optimizing Product Improvement Spending with Third-Party Security Consultants

Companies should try to match security consultancies or even individual consultants to specific projects. To do this, get to know the consultants-in particular, their skills, experience, and interests. Attend security conferences to be aware of their latest research. Beyond this, look for softer skills, such as good communication skills, and an understanding of the challenges that product teams face. Also, develop relationships with consultancies that can grow along with your changing security needs. These steps can improve security and optimize the outlay of your product improvement dollars.
Historical note: Atherton Seidell and the photoduplication of library material

Atherton Seidell was a pioneer in the use of photoduplication as a means of scientific communication. Through a series of seminal articles in Science in the 1930s and 1940s, Seidell established a theoretical justification for the use of microfilms as a means of facilitating scientific information exchange. Seidell himself was an accomplished chemist, and he based his arguments on his perceptions as a scientist of the information needs of the scientific community. Through his involvement with microfilming in lieu of interlibrary loan at the three national libraries, Seidell attempted to put his ideas into practice. In particular he championed free photoduplication of library materials as both a natural extension of library services to patrons at a distance and as a tremendous boon to science. His attempts to promote microfilms in library were for the most part unsuccessful, however, because librarians approached information needs from a different perspective. © 1989 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Theoretical implications of the demise of state socialism

How things have changed. To many observers it seems as if socialism's time has come and gone. The cataclysmic and as Lipset and Bence detail in this issue, generally unforeseen developments of the past few years appear to have dealt state socialism a mortal blow. Less than a decade ago a large proportion of the world's population lived in socialist regimes, but today unequivocally socialist regimes can be found only in Cuba and North Korea. China's current experiments that combine privatization with political centralization are perhaps best characterized as "Market Leninism," although some may dispute the appropriateness of this label.
Teaching children with intellectual challenges to learn prepositions: Using a treatment package of computer-based photographs, time delay prompting, video self-modeling, and positive reinforcement

This review provides a summary and appraisal commentary on the treatment review by Mechling, L. C., & Hunnicutt, J. R. (2011). Computer-based video self-modeling to teach receptive understanding of prepositions by students with intellectual disabilities. Education and Training in Autism and Developmental Disabilities, 46(3), 369–385. Source of funding and disclosure of interest: No source of funding reported, and no conflicts of interest reported by the original authors of this research report.
Review of intercomparisons of moored current measurements

Since 1969 when the report of the first intercomparison of moored current meters was published, a number of intercomparisons of current meters operating throughout the ocean environment have been made. An overview of 14 intercomparison tests is given. These tests have elucidated the in situ characteristics of a number of current meters suspended on a flexible mooring line subject to time-dependent forcing.
Yeast mutants of glucose metabolism with defects in the coordinate regulation of carbon assimilation.

The enzymes of the glyoxylate cycle and gluconeogenesis are tightly regulated by transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and posttranslational mechanisms in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We have previously identified four genes, ACN8, ACN9, ACN17, and ACN18, whose mutant phenotype includes two- to fourfold elevated levels of enzymes of the glyoxylate cycle, gluconeogenesis, and acetyl-CoA metabolism. The affected enzymes are elevated on nonfermentable carbon sources but are still fully repressed by glucose. Catabolite inactivation of the cytosolic malate dehydrogenase is not affected in the mutants. Instead, the phenotype appeared to be manifested primarily at the level of transcription. The ACN8, ACN17, and ACN18 genes were isolated by functional complementation of the respective mutant's inability to utilize acetate as a carbon and energy source, and these genes were shown to encode subunits of metabolic enzymes. ACN8 was identical to FBP1, which encodes the gluconeogenic enzyme, fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase, while ACN17 and ACN18 were identical to the SDH2 and SDH4 genes, respectively, that encode subunits of the respiratory chain and tricarboxylic acid cycle enzyme, succinate dehydrogenase. Mutants defective in other glyoxylate cycle and gluconeogenic enzymes also display the elevated enzyme phenotype, indicating that the enzyme superinduction is a general property of gluconeogenic dysfunction. Glucose 6-phosphate levels were diminished in the mutants, suggesting that endogenous glucose synthesis can regulate the expression of gluconeogenic enzymes.
Solid-phase considerations for the environmental fate of nitrobenzene and triazine munition constituents in soil

This paper focuses on the chemistry of DoD-relevant organic contaminants in soil. Most of the work presented here is based on the author’s experience with the environmental fate of the munition constituents, TNT and RDX, for DoD related issues. The principles and challenges of understanding the transport of nitrobenzene and triazine compounds in the environment are captured. In this work, disparities in the current scientific literature with respect to the construction of sorption experiments are discussed, in terms of soil sample handling, dispersion state of the soil, and sorption hysteresis/equilibrium. Here is discussed the concept of environmentally formulated compounds and its implications toward reduced accuracy of predicting the environmental fate of munition constituents. Also, further research linking simple but oft-forgotten basic concepts of soil fertility to the transport and environmental fate of munition constituents are discussed.
Prediction of threshold stress intensity for fatigue crack growth using a dislocation model

It has been shown that the ratio of threshold stress intensity for fatigue crack growth to the shear modulus is nearly a constant for many materials. This implies that fatigue crack growth is related to some fundamental phenomenon occurring at the crack tip. In the following a dislocation model has been developed to predict the threshold stress intensity. It is shown that the stress intensity can be related to the stress necessary to nucleate a dislocation at the crack tip. The most important outcome of the present analysis is that the threshold stress intensity depends more on the elastic modulus rather than on any other material property in agreement with many experimental results.
Hunting Stability of Rail Vehicles with Torsionally Flexible Wheelsets

The effects of torsionally flexible wheelsets on the hunting stability of rail vehicles have been investigated by solving the eigenproblem. The primary model is that of a single truck with two torsionally flexible wheelsets. Results for a complete car model consisting of the car body, two trucks and four torsionally flexible wheelsets are also presented for comparison. This study shows that the hunting critical speed of rail vehicles is reduced significantly by the use of torsionally flexible wheelsets.
Lethality begets lethality.

Courtwright et al.1 report that the diagnosis of ‘lethal’ conditions prenatally leads to care that is less intense, lower cost and of similar survival benefit when compared with postnatally diagnosed cases. Based on these results, the authors conclude that ‘highly aggressive interventions did not prolong survival in these cases and should not be offered.’ Based on such a definitive assessment one would assume that despite aggressive efforts to support infants after a lethal diagnosis, there was no significant prolongation of life. The authors do not report data that would allow such a determination to be made. Given the lack of such data, the phenomenon of the self-fulfilling prophecy (SFP) is a likely explanation for the authors' findings.
Persistence of "relapse-tendencies" of rats previously made physically dependent on morphine.

1. Measurements of 24 hr tap water consumption, body weight, “wet dog” shake frequency and free choice drinking (etonitazene, 5 mcg/ml versus distilled water) were made at intervals up to 434 days following abrupt withdrawal of morphine (from a daily maintenance dose level of 200 mg/kg i.p.) in one group of rats (“postaddicts”) and following termination of i.p. injections of saline in a control group of rats (“normals”). 2. During the first five days after termination of injections, signs of primary morphine abstinence were observed in the “postaddict” rats: transient decrease in 24 hr tap water consumption and in body weight, and increase in “wet dog” shake frequency. 3. Secondary morphine-abstinence phenomena, consisting of signicantly greater 24 hr tap water consumption and slightly higher “wet dog” shake frequency (compared with normal rats) were observed in “postaddict” rats over the 7th–23rd post-injection days. Thereafter, these differences persisted, but not at significant levels. 4. In a no-choice test (etonitazene, 5 mcg/ml or water on different occasions) conducted between the 28th and 37th days after termination of injections, “post-addict” rats drank significantly more etonitazene than water, whereas normal rats drank slightly less etonitazene than water. 5. In free-choice drinking tests (etonitazene, 5 mcg/ml versus water) conducted at intervals over a period of 434 days following termination of injections (morphine or saline), no significant differences in mean water consumption between “post-addict” and normal rats were observed. In contrast, “postaddict” rats drank significantly larger mean volumes of the etonitazene solution on every “relapse” test through the 336th and again on the 406th post-withdrawal day (but not on the 372nd or 434th day). 6. It is concluded that in the “postaddict” rat a “need” for an opioid persists for about one year after abrupt withdrawal of morphine, and that this “need” is based on long-term derangement of homeostasis. although the physiological characteristics of such homeostatic derangement differ in the relatively short primary and more protracted secondary abstinence periods. 7. The long persistence of “relapse-tendency” in rats previously made physically dependent on morphine may be based on such long-term derangement of homeostasis coupled, perhaps, with “interoceptive” conditioning generated during daily cycles of primary abstinence from and relief by morphine in the “addiction” period, through which the internal sensorial effects of opioids (morphine while receiving injections; etonitazene imbibed in “relapse” tests) may acquire secondary reinforcing properties.
Measurement and correlation of optical and TEM twins in Y/sub 1/Ba/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7- delta /

The spacing of the twins present in Y/sub 1/Ba/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7- delta / has been investigated using optical and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Studies have reported that the value of the average twin spacing obtained by optical measurements is much larger than that measured in thin foils prepared for TEM observation, and controversy exists as to the exact nature of the optical twins. Experiments have been conducted which show that the twins observed optically correspond to those seen using TEM and are not produced by an optical interference effect. Using electron channeling, equations have been formulated which allow optical determination of the true spacing of twins present in a selected grain as well as the orientation of that grain. The average twin spacing measured by TEM has been found to vary with the sample preparation method, being smaller for crushed chip samples than for bulk samples prepared by ion milling or jet-polishing. A variation of the twin spacing with grain size has also been noted. >
Cogmed Working Memory Training for Youth with ADHD: A Closer Examination of Efficacy Utilizing Evidence-Based Criteria

The current review applied the evidence-based treatment criteria espoused by the Society for Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology (Silverman & Hinshaw, 2008 ) to specifically evaluate the short-term and longer term efficacy of Cogmed Working Memory Training (CWMT) as a treatment for youth with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Utilizing a systematic literature search, 7 studies that employed the school-age version of CWMT were identified for this review. The data reviewed herein suggest mixed findings regarding the benefit of CWMT for youth with ADHD. Two randomized controlled studies have demonstrated that CWMT led to improvements in neuropsychological outcomes and parent-rated ADHD symptoms relative to wait-list control and placebo treatment conditions. Another study demonstrated effects of CWMT relative to a placebo condition on an analog observation of behavior during an academic task, although this study did not find an effect of CWMT on parent-rated ADHD. Finally, an additional study utilizing an active comparison control condition did not find incremental benefits of CWMT on parent- or teacher-rated ADHD. Critical issues in interpreting existing studies include lack of alignment between demonstrated outcomes and the hypothesized model of therapeutic benefit of CWMT, issues with equivalence of control conditions, and individual differences that may moderate treatment response. Collectively, the strengths and limitations of the studies reviewed suggest that CWMT is best defined as a Possibly Efficacious Treatment for youth with ADHD. We suggest future directions for research and conclude with clinical implications of our findings for the treatment of youth with ADHD.
The curriculum materials center : library support for a teacher education program

Purpose – To increase support for teacher education programs in colleges and universities through the development of the curriculum materials center (CMC).Design/methodology/approach – Through statistics drawn from a student survey and departmental records of the C.W. Post CMC, along with the perspective of the author, the development of a CMC as support for a teacher education program is explored. The paper provides insight into various necessary collections and services that the center should offer.Findings – General historical information is offered. The paper also provides information on key collections found in a CMC. Successful approaches to development and creative application of instruction are discussed.Practical implications – This paper provides clear and useful information, including but not limited to suggested author lists, a professional collection bibliography, and software ideas. The objective is to improve the development, functionality and service in a CMC.Originality/value – Arguably, ...
Methylation structural analysis of unusual dextrans by combined gas-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry

Abstract Eight bacterial dextrans from NRRL strainsLeuconostoc mesenteroides B-742, B-1299, B-1355, B-1399, and B-1402, and from Streptobacterium dextranicum B-1254 were examined by methylation structural analysis. Methyl ethers of d -glucose that were present in hydrolyzates of permethylated dextrans were analyzed by combined g.l.c.−m.s. as the peracetylated aldononitriles. The various dextrans differed significantly in frequency and type of chain branching.
The effects of parasitism on energy flow through laboratory shrimp populations

I quantified the effects of parasitism by the isopod Probopyrus pandalicola on energy flow through the host Palaemonetes pugio by comparing secondary production, metabolism, ingestion, and egestion by unparasitized laboratory shrimp populations to the same parameters for parasitized groups during 10 months. The effects of parasitism on host growth and metabolism vary from month to month. Temperature, season, host age, sex, and reproductive condition affect energetics for host-parasite systems. Probopyrus pandalicola has little effect on host assimilation efficiency. However, tissue growth efficiences during most study months were higher for control shrimp than parasitized shrimp. These differences between groups were of lesser magnitude when parasite production was considered in the calculations. Trophic level energy intake efficiency for parasites was of the order of 6 to 10% throughout much of the study—the highest values were calculated during the parasites' reproductive months. Through parasitic castration, P. pandalicola significantly affects host energetics. Significantly, parasite reproduction was often of the same magnitude as reproduction by unparasitized hosts, although parasite biomass accounts for only about 4% of the total host-parasite system biomass.
Initial Effects of Prescribed Fire on Morphology, Abundance, and Phenology of Forbs in Big Sagebrush Communities in Southeastern Oregon

Abstract Historic fire return intervals in Artemesia tridentata (big sagebrush) ecosystems have been altered by livestock grazing, fire suppression, and other land management techniques resulting in ecological changes in these areas. Increases in abundance of woody vegetation may be causing declines in native herbaceous understory species. We examined the effects of prescribed fire on the morphology, abundance, and phenology of nine abundant forb (herbaceous dicot) species used selectively by Centrocercus urophasianus (Sage Grouse). In September 1997 prescribed fire was applied to four of eight randomly assigned 400-ha A.t. wyomingensis (Wyoming big sagebrush) study plots at Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, Oregon. Livestock had not grazed experimental plots since 1991. Burning caused morphological changes such as significantly greater numbers of racemes and flowers per raceme in Astragalus malachus (shaggy milkvetch-Legumoideae) (9 in burn vs. 6 in control; 23 in burn vs. 21 in control, respectively). Also, prescribed burning caused greater numbers of flowers in Phlox gracilis (microsteris-Polemoniaceae) (57 vs. 13), greater numbers of umbels and umbelletts in Lomatium nevadense (Nevada desert parsley-Umbellifereae) (4 vs. 2 and 59 vs. 31, respectively), greater numbers of flower heads in Crepis modocensis (Modoc hawksbeard-Compositae) (32 vs. 21), and greater number of flowers/cm3 in Phlox longifolia (longleaf phlox-Polemoniaceae) (0.11 vs. 0.06). Crown volume of Crepis modocensis (7,085 vs. 4,179 cm3) and Astragalus malachus (2,854 vs. 1,761 cm3) plants was greater in burned plots than control plots. However, burning resulted in a smaller crown area of Antennaria dimorpha (low pussytoes-Compositae) (20 vs. 37 cm2). Phenology and time of flowering were also affected by fire. The period of active growth for each species was extended later into the summer in burned plots ( p < 0.01). In addition, Crepis modocensis and Lomatium nevadense flowered 12 to 14 days earlier in burned plots. Fire had no effect on frequency, density, and relative abundance of seven of the nine studied species. Fire reduced the frequency and relative abundance of A. dimorpha and Phlox longifolia and reduced the density of A. dimorpha.
WHEY MODIFIED PHENOL-FORMALDEHYDE RESINS AS PLYWOOD ADHESIVES

Abstract The disposal of whey permeate (deproteinized whey/lactose) from the cheese industry represents a serious economic and environmental problem in the USA. The feasibility of replacing part of the phenol and formaldehyde in phenol-formaldehyde thermosetting resins by lactose/ lactose derivatives in the resin formulation has been explored. Results indicate that dilactosylurea and N-hydroxymethyl-N′-lactosylurea might be incorporated in the resin formulation without substantially affecting the wet shear strength of southern pine plywood bonded with these whey-modified resins. It appears that up to 50% (by weight) substitution of phenol by the modifier in the formulation can be accomplished before significant loss of the wet strength is observed.
A time for reconciliation

The last time I addressed Town Hall of California was in 1980, in the midst of energy shortages and skyrocketing prices. At that time, energy was high on the list of public concerns, and at the top of the legislative agenda.
Diminished Cardioprotective Response to Inhibition of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme and Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor in B2 Kinin Receptor Gene Knockout Mice

Abstract —Using B 2 kinin receptor gene knockout mice (B 2 −/− ), we tested the hypothesis that (l) lack of B 2 receptors may affect blood pressure and cardiac function and aggravate cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI), and (2) kinins partially mediate the cardiac beneficial effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) or angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonists (AT 1 -ant), whereas lack of B 2 receptors may diminish this cardioprotective effect. Chronic heart failure (HF) was induced by MI, which was caused by coronary artery ligation in both B 2 −/− and 129/SvEvTac mice (wild-type control, B 2 +/+ ). An ACEi (ramipril, 2.5 mg/kg/d) or AT 1 -ant (L-158809, 3 mg/kg/d) was given 1 week after MI and was continued for 12 weeks. Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, cardiac output (CO), diastolic LV dimension (LVDd), and LV mass were evaluated by echocardiography. Myocyte cross-sectional area and interstitial collagen fraction were studied histopathologically. We found that basal blood pressure and cardiac function were similar in B 2 +/+ and B 2 −/− mice. After MI, development of HF and remodeling were also similar between the 2 strains. The ACEi improved cardiac function and remodeling in both strains; however, its effects were attenuated in B 2 −/− mice (respective values for B 2 +/+ versus B 2 −/− mice: overall increase in ejection fraction, 64±10% versus 21±5% [ P P P P 1 -ant had a beneficial cardiac effect similar to that produced by ACEi, and this effect was also diminished in B 2 −/− mice (respective values for B 2 +/+ versus B 2 −/− mice: overall increase in ejection fraction, 46±10% versus 25±9% [ P P P P 1 -ant on myocyte cross-sectional area was similar between strains; however, their effect on the interstitial collagen fraction was diminished in B 2 −/− mice. We concluded that (1) lack of B 2 kinin receptors does not affect cardiac phenotype or function, either under normal physiological conditions or during the development of HF; and (2) kinins acting via the B 2 receptor play an important role in the cardioprotective effect of ACEi and AT 1 -ant.
Inferior outcomes in immunosuppressed patients with high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck treated with surgery and radiation therapy

Background Immunosuppressed patients have higher rates of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Objective This study reviews the effect of immune status on disease characteristics and treatment outcomes. Methods Patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck treated with surgery and postoperative radiotherapy between 2000 and 2011 were included. Immunosuppressed patients underwent prior organ transplantation or chemotherapy. Baseline variables were compared using χ 2 and unpaired t tests. Overall survival and disease-free survival were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results In this study of 59 patients, 38 (64%) were immunocompetent and 21 (36%) were immunosuppressed. Most patients had recurrent tumors (63%) and node-positive disease (61%), which were well balanced between the groups. Poorly differentiated tumors (62% vs 21%; P = .009), lymphovascular invasion (29% vs 11%; P = .08), and extracapsular extension (57% vs 41%; P = .09) were more frequent in the immunosuppressed group. Two-year disease-free survival (45% vs 62%) and 2-year overall survival (36% vs 67%) were inferior for immunosuppressed patients. Limitations Limitations include single institution, retrospective study with small sample size, and potential referral bias. Conclusions Immunosuppressed patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck more frequently present with high-risk pathologic features and inferior outcomes. Early multidisciplinary assessment and alternate management strategies merit prospective investigation.
Reliable scheduling in a TMR database system

A Triple Modular Redundant (TMR) system achieves high reliability by replicating data and all processing at three independent nodes. When TMR is used for database processing all nonfaulty computers must execute the same sequence of transactions, and this is ensured by a collection of processes known as schedulers. In this paper we study the implementation of efficient schedulers through analysis of various enhancements such as null transactions and message batching. The schedulers have been implemented in an experimental TMR system and the evaluation results are presented here.
Bounded Rationality and Legal Scholarship

Decision theory seems to offer a very attractive normative framework for individual and social choice under uncertainty. The decisionmaker should think of her choice situation, at any given moment, in terms of a set of possible outcomes, that is, specifications of the possible consequences of choice, described in light of the decisionmaker's goals; a set of possible actions; and a "state set" consisting of possible prior "states of the world." It is this framework for choice which provides the foundation for expected utility theory, as demonstrated in the work of Leonard Savage. Problems arise, however, when the decisionmaker is boundedly rational: when the mental process of thinking about outcomes, actions, and states is itself expensive and time consuming. In the case of the unboundedly rational decisionmaker, decision theory enjoins her to employ maximally specific outcomes; to consider all possible actions; and to use a set of mutually exclusive and collective exhaustive states, each of which is sufficiently finely specified so that each action, together with each state, yields one and only one maximally specific outcome. In the case of the boundedly rational decisionmaker, this procedure is either infeasible or, if feasible, irrational. This paper presents the problem of bounded rationality. It surveys possible solutions, none of which are found to be attractive. And it concludes by discussing the difficulties that the problem of bounded rationality poses for the welfarist program for legal scholarship presented by Louis Kaplow and Steven Shavell in their book, Fairness versus Welfare.
Annealing and Yield Stress of NaCl Single Crystals

Annealing experiments on NaCl single crystals are reported, showing that the expected decrease in yield strength is significantly modified by stress history, impurities, and furnace atmosphere. Annealing in air can result in a higher yield stress than that obtained without annealing. The lower limit obtained for the critical resolved shear stress of NaCl single crystals is 35 g per mm2.
Electrical Stimulation and High Temperature Conditioning of Broiler Carcasses

Abstract Two studies were conducted to determine the effects of post-mortem electrical stimulation and high temperature conditioning on the tenderness and post-mortem metabolism of broiler breast meat. Broiler carcasses were electrically stimulated (ES) (110 V, 1 A, 1 s on and 1 s off for 7 or 14 min) or left unstimulated (ES0), placed in a 39 C water bath (HTC) or in a water-ice slush (CTC) until 1 h post-mortem when the breast fillets were harvested. Fillets were cooked at 1 or 18 h post-mortem. Electrical stimulation and HTC had no individual effect on pectoralis major fillet tenderness, but when combined, they improved tenderness at both cooking times with the 18 h treatment yielding the lowest shear value. At 1 h post-mortem, fillets from ES- and HTC-treated carcasses had greater R values and sarcomere lengths and lower pH than ES and CTC or ES- and HTC-treated carcass fillets, which were similar and had greater R values and sarcomere lengths and lower pH than carcass fillets of the ES0 and CTC control. Although neither myofibril fragmentation index means nor SDS-PAGE banding patterns were affected by ES or HTC treatments, fragmentation index and sarcomere length were both highly correlated with shear force.
Anthropometric study with emphasis on hand and foot measurements in the Prader-Willi syndrome: sex, age and chromosome effects

Age, sex and chromosome effects on weight, height, sitting height, three head dimensions, and five hand and three foot measurements were analyzed from 57 patients (35 males and 22 females) with the Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). No significant differences were observed in anthropometric data between PWS patients with the 15q chromosome deletion and those with normal chromosomes. Preschool children were found to have dolichocephaly, while hand and foot measurements, stature and sitting height were within normal range, although foot size was smaller than hand size in females when compared with PWS males. However, anthropometric measurements, excluding weight, head length and ankle breadth, were less than -2 SD in adult patients. Abnormal growth patterns apparently exist with significant negative correlations with age, particularly in PWS males, for height, sitting height, head circumference, and hand and foot measurements, but a significant positive correlation for weight was found in patients below 10 years of age.
Stage-specific transcription of germline lgH Cγ and Cα regions during human B cell differentiation

Previous studies have suggested that transcription of germline heavy chain constant region (CH) genes in murine B cells may determine the potential of their different CH regions to undergo isotype switch recombination. We have examined the transcriptional activity across the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) locus in human B lineage cells. Transcription of germline C gamma and C alpha was observed in every surface IgM+ or surface IgM+/IgD+ B cell stage cell line and malignancy. In contrast, such transcription could not be detected in pre-B cells and only low levels of C alpha but not C gamma transcription were evident in IgM-secreting plasmablast cells. Transcriptional activity of germline IgH C epsilon was singularly absent at all stages of B cell development. Our results suggest that germline transcription of the C gamma and C alpha regions may be a constitutive feature of the human B cell differentiation program. Because this transcriptional activity is limited primarily to the B cell stage and occurs prior to the actual isotype switch, the induction of C gamma and C alpha transcription may represent preparation of the downstream IgH chromatin for potential switch recombination.
MinC Spatially Controls Bacterial Cytokinesis by Antagonizing the Scaffolding Function of FtsZ

Summary Background Cytokinesis in bacteria is mediated by a cytokinetic ring, termed the Z ring, which forms a scaffold for recruitment of other cell-division proteins. The Z ring is composed of FtsZ filaments, but their organization in the Z ring is poorly understood. In Escherichia coli , the Min system contributes to the spatial regulation of cytokinesis by preventing the assembly of the Z ring away from midcell. The effector of the Min system, MinC, inhibits Z ring assembly by a mechanism that is not clear. Results Here, we report that MinC controls the scaffolding function of FtsZ by antagonizing the mechanical integrity of FtsZ structures. Specifically, MinC antagonizes the ability of FtsZ filaments to be in a solid-like gel state. MinC is a modular protein whose two domains (MinC C and MinC N ) synergize to inhibit FtsZ function. MinC C interacts directly with FtsZ polymers to target MinC to Z rings. MinC C also prevents lateral interactions between FtsZ filaments, an activity that seems to be unique among cytoskeletal proteins. Because MinC C is inhibitory in vivo, it suggests that lateral interactions between FtsZ filaments are important for the structural integrity of the Z ring. MinC N contributes to MinC activity by weakening the longitudinal bonds between FtsZ molecules in a filament leading to a loss of polymer rigidity and consequent polymer shortening. On the basis of our results, we develop the first computational model of the Z ring and study the effects of MinC. Conclusions Control over the scaffolding activity of FtsZ probably represents a universal regulatory mechanism of bacterial cytokinesis.
Is the WTO a Threat to the Environment, Public Health, and Sovereignty?

All the headlines say that the Doha Round of World Trade Organization trade negotiations have collapsed. Some are betting, however, that talks will resume. The main conflicts are over trade. But Trish Kelly thinks that progress can be made in other critical areas.
Bioreactivity of estuarine dissolved organic matter: A combined geochemical and microbiological approach

An integrated multidisciplinary study utilizing geochemical and microbial ecological approaches was conducted to characterize the origins, chemical nature, and quantities of dissolved and particulate organic matter (OM) utilized by heterotrophic bacteria in a temperate estuary. C : N, stable isotope ( d 13 C), and lipid biomarker analyses revealed differences in the inferred reactivity of autochthonous versus allochthonous OM sources. Isotopic comparison of OM size fractions and bacterial nucleic acids suggests that high-molecular-weight dissolved OM (DOM) is consistently linked to bacterial biomass synthesis along the estuarine salinity gradient. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (as percent of total fatty acids, FA) were a reliable predictor of DOM decomposition in bioassays, thus providing an indicator directly linking DOM reactivity to its composition. Significant positive correlations between FA diagnostic of bacterial sources and lipid biomarker compounds diagnostic of planktonic origin indicate a systematic bacterial response to autochthonous DOM sources along the estuarine continuum. These findings further suggest that, although the geochemical signature of algal-derived OM in the dissolved phase may appear quantitatively insignificant, this fraction may nevertheless represent a principal source of bioreactive OM to heterotrophic bacteria in estuarine waters.
Synchronization of the cardiac pacemaker with repetitive stimulation of the carotid sinus nerve in the dog.

In anesthetized open-chest dogs, the right carotid sinus nerve was stimulated with brief bursts of electrical impulses. When a single burst was given with each heart beat, the reflexly induced change in heart rate depended on the time within the cardiac cycle that the stimulus was applied. The maximum response was obtained when the P-St interval (i.e., the time from the beginning of the P wave to the beginning of the stimulus burst) was approximately zero. At this P-St interval the cardiac cycle (P-P interval) was prolonged to a mean value of 583 ± 145 (SD) msec from a prestimulation control value of 408 ± 80 msec. The minimum response, a mean P-P interval 45 ± 20 msec less than the maximum, was obtained at a mean P-St interval of 322 ± 48 msec. As a consequence of this phase dependency, over a definite but small range of stimulation frequencies, the discharge of the cardiac pacemaker became synchronized with the neural activity in the baroreceptor reflex arc. Within this critical range of stimulation frequencies, the cardiac pacemaker responded paradoxically to carotid sinus nerve stimulation: a change in the frequency of stimulation evoked a parallel, rather than the well-known inverse, change in heart rate.
Time Management, Passion, and Collaboration A Qualitative Study of Highly Research Productive Counseling Psychologists

The present study interviewed 17 of the most research-productive counseling psychologists within APA-accredited counseling psychology programs. Using Consensual Qualitative Research, seven domains emerged from the interviews: root of productivity, personality characteristics, productivity strategies, work environment, nonwork life, impact, and tips. Within these domains, 13 general categories emerged and 19 typical categories emerged. Overall, these participants were successful early in their careers, received mentorship/support while in graduate school, chose research topics that were salient to them and about which they were passionate, effectively managed their time, collaborated well with students and professionals, had a structured approach to writing, worked in a supportive research environment, and spent a considerable amount of time outside of work with family or participating in hobbies. Based on the results, practical suggestions are offered for individuals within the field of counseling psychol...
Speed control for a plant packaging reel on a seedling harvester.

Abstract A controller was developed to synchronize the packaging tape and lifting belt speeds on a prototype seedling harvester designed to capture a row of plants between two strips of tape, and accumulate this line of plants onto a 1 m diameter reel. The goal was to keep the tape speed equal to, or slightly greater than, the lifting belt speed to prevent bunching of plants. Maximum variation between tape and belt speeds occurred when the packaging reel was about half full. As presently designed, minimum deviation was achieved with a lifting belt speed of approximately 40 cm/s and a controller integration time of 5 s. Field observations indicated, however, that a 2 s integration time provided quicker response to an abrupt change in belt speed, and still allowed relatively smooth operation for the filling of an entire reel.
Fast algorithms for orthogonal and biorthogonal modulated lapped transforms

New algorithms for the computation of orthogonal and biorthogonal modulated lapped transforms (MLTs) are presented. The new structures are obtained by combining the MLT window operators with stages from a previously introduced structure for the type-IV discrete cosine transform (DCT-IV). The net result is fewer multiplications and additions than previously reported algorithms. For the orthogonal MLT, in particular, the new structure requires the computation of a slightly modified DCT-IV and some extra additions, but no further multiplications; so it demonstrates that the multiplicative complexity of the orthogonal MLT is the same as that of the DCT-IV.
Spinal interneurons and micturition reflexes: focus on “Characterization of a spinal, urine storage reflex, inhibitory center and its regulation by 5-HT1A receptors in female cats”

generations of effort have been devoted to understanding how the human body stores and periodically releases urine. Micturition is regulated by neural circuits in the brain and spinal cord that coordinate the activity of the smooth and striated muscles of the lower urinary tract (LUT) ([7][1], [9][2
Analysis of mechanical and electrical noise interfacing the instrument during data acquisition: development of a machine for assessing surface properties of fibers

A new compression test unit was developed for the assessment of the surface properties of fibers. In order to measure the variation in the compression force during a test, a full bridge load cell was developed. It was seen that the signal coming from the strain gages was superimposed with noise. It was also found that the noise was from both electrical and mechanical sources. An extensive mathematical analysis of mechanical noise and the application of a mechanical noise reduction technique minimized the mechanical noise component. Analysis of electrical noise showed that the motion control card was interfacing with the data acquisition (DAQ) card via both the RS232 and the AC power line. It was necessary to separate the motion control unit and the DAQ unit in order to eliminate the electrical noise problem present in the system. After eliminating the noise from the unit, the calibration of the strain gages has been performed. The coefficient of correlation was found 1.00 with a cubic model.
A Comprehensive Prevention Approach to Reducing Assault Offenses and Assault Injuries among Youth.

Since 2011, the CDC-funded Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Center (MI-YVPC), working with community partners, has implemented a comprehensive prevention approach to reducing youth violence in Flint, MI, based on public health principles. MI-YVPC employed an intervention strategy that capitalizes on existing community resources and application of evidence-based programs using a social-ecological approach to change. We evaluated the combined effect of six programs in reducing assaults and injury among 10–24 year olds in the intervention area relative to a matched comparison community. We used generalized linear mixed models to examine change in the intervention area counts of reported assault offenses and assault injury presentation relative to the comparison area over a period 6 years prior- and 30 months post-intervention. Results indicated that youth victimization and assault injuries fell in the intervention area subsequent to the initiation of the interventions and that these reductions were sustained over time. Our evaluation demonstrated that a comprehensive multi-level approach can be effective for reducing youth violence and injury.
TLE TeachLivE™: Using Technology to Provide Quality Professional Development in Rural Schools:

Rural schools face challenges in training and retaining qualified teachers, especially special education personnel. This article describes how an interdisciplinary team at the University of Central...
A Theory of Stability: John Rawls, Fetal Homicide, and Substantive Due Process

This article evaluates American fetal homicide laws in the light of John Rawls's political philosophy. In particular, it seeks to discern whether fetal homicide indicates a societal recognition of fetal personhood, and, if so, whether such recognition renders the right to abortion inconsistent with our principles of justice. The article proceeds in three parts. The first part outlines the contours of the bifurcated fetal-rights scheme and demonstrates that it is an established societal judgment with robust institutional support. The middle part introduces Rawls's philosophy, and explains how it can, under certain circumstances, provide us with insight into the stability of public policies. The final part, which constitutes the core of the article, uses Rawls's philosophical model to gauge the stability of the bifurcated fetal-rights scheme. Specifically, it demonstrates that, in a Rawlsian society, the emergence of fetal-homicide laws necessarily reflects a public understanding that fetuses are represented at the "original position." This part then goes on to evaluate the circumstances in which the current fetal-rights scheme - a blend of fetal-homicide laws and abortion rights - could be affirmed by a Rawlsian. The article concludes by briefly speculating about how Rawls's philosophy might impact our views on fetal rights in the coming decades.
Characteristics of Mothers of Live Infants with Congenital Syphilis in Florida, 1987–1989

The incidence of congenital syphilis in Florida increased sixfold from 1985 through 1989, and more than 80% of the cases occurred in metropolitan areas of southern Florida. To characterize the population of pregnant women in Florida at high risk of delivering an infant with congenital syphilis, the authors conducted a case-control study using birth certificates. Birth certificates were obtained for 256 of the 344 live infants reported as having congenital syphilis from 1987 through 1989 (74%); the 246 of these infants born in hospitals were matched for hospital and week of birth with an equal number of controls. In conditional multiple logistic regression, the following maternal characteristics were independent risk factors for congenital syphilis: young age, black race, single marital status, absence of a father's name on the birth certificate, previous pregnancy, substance abuse, and lack of prenatal care. Although the national origin of the mother was not a significant risk factor, the infants of black mothers born in the United States were at greater risk than the infants of black mothers born outside the United States. Mothers who had 3 visits. This study suggests that targeted outreach efforts are necessary to control congenital syphilis and provides guidance for public health intervention activities.
Polarization-dependent photocurrents in polar stacks of van der Waals solids

Monolayers of semiconducting van der Waals solids, such as transition metal dichalcogenides, acquire significant electric polarization normal to the layers when placed on a substrate or in a heterogeneous stack. This causes a linear coupling of electrons to electric fields normal to the layers. Irradiation at oblique incidence at frequencies above the gap causes interband transitions due to coupling to both normal and in-plane ac electric fields. The interference between the two processes leads to sizable in-plane photocurrents and valley currents. The direction and magnitude of the currents are controlled by light polarization and are determined by their helical or nonhelical components. The helicity-dependent ballistic current arises due to asymmetric photogeneration. The nonhelical current has a ballistic contribution (dominant in sufficiently clean samples) caused by asymmetric scattering of photoexcited carriers, and a side-jump contribution. A magneto-induced photocurrent is due to the Lorentz force or due to an intrinsic magnetic moment related to Berry curvature.
Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, and Acholeplasma infections of bovine genitalia.

This article reviews Mycoplasma , Ureaplasma and Acholeplasma infections of bovine genitalia.
Torsional splittings and assignments of the Doppler-limited spectrum of ethane in the C-H stretching region

The Doppler-limited absorption spectrum of the C-H stretching region of ethane has been recorded at T≃ 119 K with a tunable difference-frequency laser spectrometer. The strong torsional hot band structure at room temperature is eliminated at 119 K, and the enhanced resolution from the Doppler width reduction allows us to observe small torsional splittings. The two fundamentals in the region, v7, a perpendicular band and, v5, a parallel band have been essentially completely assigned as have a large number of transitions in the parallel component of the v8 + v11 combination band. A number of perturbations of both global and local nature have been observed. The complete spectrum and a listing of transition wavenumbers, intensities and assignments are presented here to facilitate identification and quantitative analysis of ethane in a variety of monitoring applications. Precise ground state rotational constants have been determined from combination differences.
Breast cancer: new strategies to beat an old enemy.

Learn why more women are surviving breast cancer-and how you can improve your patient's odds for recovery.