cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Desensitization and management of allograft rejection.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) limits the success of lung transplantation. Among the risk factors associated with CLAD, we recognize pretransplant circulating antibodies against the human leukocyte antigens (HLA), acute cellular rejection (ACR) and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). This review will summarize current data surrounding management of desensitization, ACR, AMR, and CLAD. RECENT FINDINGS Strategies in managing in highly sensitized patients waiting for lung transplant include avoidance of specific HLA antigens and reduction of circulating anti-HLA antibodies at time of transplant. Several multimodal approaches have been studied in the treatment of AMR with a goal to clear circulating donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) and to halt the production of new antibodies. Different immunosuppressive strategies focus on influence of the host immune system, particularly T-cell responses, in order to prevent ACR and the progression of CLAD. SUMMARY The lack of significant evidence and consensus limits to draw conclusion regarding the impact of specific immunosuppressive regimens in the management of HLA antibodies, ACR, and CLAD. Development of novel therapeutic agents and use of multicenter randomized clinical trials will allow to better define patient-specific treatments and improve the length and quality of life of lung transplant recipients.
Emotional Manipulation and Task Distraction as Strategy: The Effects of Insulting Trash Talk on Motivation and Performance in a Competitive Setting

This exploratory study modeled the effects of verbally aggressive insults, or “trash talk,” on an opponent’s performance in a competitive setting. A hypothesized model predicted that the perception...
Degradable Mulch Evaluation

Introduction Plastic mulches can provide vegetable growers with earlier crop maturity, better yields and quality, improved disease, insect and weed control, and more efficient fertilizer and water use. The downside of using mulches is the high cost of installation and removal and disposal at the end of the season. A partial solution to this problem has been the development of degradable mulches, which can be left in the field at the end of the season, eliminating removal costs. There are different types of degradable mulches. Photodegradable mulches, which start breaking down when exposed to light, have been available for several years, but their use has been limited because of their tendency to breakdown unevenly leaving large pieces of plastic in the field longer than desired. Another type, called biodegradable, is made from plant byproducts such as corn starch and when exposed to moisture and the right temperatures are broken down by soil microbes into harmless substances, mostly carbon dioxide and water. In an effort to help growers determine whether degradable mulches are a viable alternative for them, this project evaluated both biodegradable and photodegradable mulches for ease of use, speed of breakdown, and how they influence performance of transplanted muskmelon.
Three-Dimensional Images of Cirrus Clouds Derived from Volume Imaging Lidar Observations

Three-dimensional backscatter cross section fields axe derived from Volume Imaging Lidar observations of cirrus clouds. High Spectral Resolution Lidar and radiosonde observations are used to calibrate the backscatter cross section measurements. An algorithm based on a single scatter model is developed for visualization of the transparent scattering field.
A prospective study of positive tuberculin reactions in women with or at risk for HIV-1 infection.

We prospectively studied 1310 women with or at risk for HIV-1 infection to assess subsequent tuberculin reactions in those with > or = 10 mm induration. Forty-seven HIV-positive and 57 negative women had tuberculin reactions > or = 10 mm induration; reversions to reactions or = 10 mm induration (P or = 10 mm tuberculin reactions to 5-9 mm are rare. In HIV-positive persons, especially those with CD4+ lymphocyte counts > or = 500/mm3, reaction sizes of 5-9 mm often may not indicate Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.
Phagocyte interactions with the intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii.

The intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is a pathogen of humans and an important zoonotic infection in domestic animals. The resultant toxoplasmic encephalitis, most dramatically highlighted in chronically infected AIDS patients, is lethal if not appropriately controlled by drug therapy. This chapter describes the multiple facets of early encounters between T. gondii and the professional phagocytes, considering how these phagocytes lead to resistance or disease as the ultimate outcome of infection. Originally defined for their role in detection of bacterial, fungal, and viral molecules, it is now known that toll-like receptor (TLR) also possess protozoan recognition properties. The first indication for TLR-based recognition of Toxoplasma came from the observation that MyD88-deficient mice were hypersusceptible to infection, and death was associated with defective IFN- γ and IL-12 responses. As MyD88-deficient mice uniformly succumb to T. gondii during acute infection, the implication is that additional TLRs are likely important in Toxoplasma recognition. Importantly, experiments using STAT3−/− macrophages show that T. gondii requires this host molecule to suppress responses to LPS. For the host, it is essential to control the parasite to prevent death from infection. In the future, we can expect a major drive to determine at the molecular level how this complex balance is achieved, and indeed, this research effort is already well under way.
Globalization of Mediated Spaces: The Case of Transnational Environmentalism in China

This study takes a network perspective on media globalization, demonstrating how transnational civil society provides linkages that circulate norms and globalize mediated spaces. Based on interviews in China with the most prominent transnational environmental NGOs, I describe their institutional position and strategies through interactions with media, other civil society groups, and the government. Supported by case study examples, I argue that this transnational network, bound together via a problem-solving logic and connecting with more localized structures, enables adaptation to the authoritarian constraints of Chinese society and, in providing global linkages, contributes to the quality and transparency of issue discourse. This holds for not only the environment but, one can speculate, other issues arenas as well.
In Remembrance of Justice Wiley W. Manuel

We mourn a remarkable man. Wiley Manuel was a gifted lawyer and judge whose judicial contributions to California law are readily available to the scrutinizing reader of the California Reports, 19771980. These well-crafted opinions bear the unmistakable Manuel hallmarks-the precise expression of fact and issue, the balanced and probing analysis, the careful marshalling of applicable precedent, and the steady emphasis on common sense and realism that matched his sense of compassion, fairness, and equity. Although his lengthy experience in state service gave him a singular mastery of administrative law, upon which we drew generously, the eighty-eight opinions that he wrote for the court within an all too brief period of less than four years ranged across a wide legal spectrum, civil and criminal, substantive and procedural. In 1978, in People v. Corey ' he defined for California law the legal status of private security guards, which he amplified the following year in People v. Zelinski2 and in Cervantez v. . C. Penney Co. 3 Who can understand the current California law of real estate financing without a careful study of his exposition in Wellenkamp v. Bank of America?4 In similar fashion, he explored and described the reciprocal powers of California's Governor and Lieutenant Governor in Brown v. Curb. His clarity of analysis, sometimes in dissent, illuminated the important area of attorney-client relationships, prompting a professional rule change.6 His recent vigorous dissents in the court's consideration of set-off principles within a tort context7 and of the constitutionality of local family residence zoning ordinances8 reveal both a resourceful mind and a deft hand.
Progesterone inhibits estrogen-mediated neuroprotection against excitotoxicity by down-regulating estrogen receptor-β.

While both 17β-estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) are neuroprotective in several experimental paradigms, P4 also counteracts E2 neuroprotective effects. We recently reported that a 4-h treatment of cultured hippocampal slices with P4 following a prolonged (20 h) treatment with E2 eliminated estrogenic neuroprotection against NMDA toxicity and induction of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of the same treatment on levels of estrogen receptors, ERα and ERβ, and BDNF using a similar paradigm. E2 treatment resulted in elevated ERβ mRNA and protein levels, did not modify ERα mRNA, but increased ERα protein levels, and increased BDNF mRNA levels. P4 reversed E2-elicited increases in ERβ mRNA and protein levels, in ERα protein levels, and in BDNF mRNA levels. Experiments with an ERβ-specific antagonist, PHTPP, and specific agonists of ERα and ERβ, propylpyrazoletriol and diarylpropionitrile, respectively, indicated that E2-mediated neuroprotection against NMDA toxicity was, at least in part, mediated via ERβ receptor. In support of this conclusion, E2 did not protect against NMDA toxicity in cultured hippocampal slices from ERβ-/- mice. Thus, E2-mediated neuroprotection against NMDA toxicity may be because of estrogenic induction of BDNF via its ERβ receptor, and P4-mediated inhibition of E2 neuroprotective effects treatment to P4-induced down-regulation of ERβ and BDNF.
An integral approach to bedrock river profile analysis

National Science Foundation (U.S.) (Geomorphology and Land-use Dynamics Program Award EAR-0951672)
Domain structure and interactions of the type I and type II modules in the gelatin-binding region of fibronectin. All six modules are independently folded.

Abstract The gelatin-binding region of fibronectin is isolated easily as a stable and functional 42 kDa fragment containing four type I “finger” modules and two type II “kringle-like” modules arranged in the order I6-II1-II2-I7-I8-I9. This fragment exhibits a single reversible melting transition near 64 °C in TBS buffer (0.02 m -Tris buffer containing 0.15 m -NaCl, pH 7.4). The transition is characterized by a calorimetric to van't Hoff enthalpy ratio of 1.6, suggesting a complex domain structure. A 30 kDa fragment with the same NH2 terminus (I6-II1-II2-I7) melts reversibly near 65 °C with Δ H cal Δ H vH = 1.3 , also consistent with the presence of more than one domain. To elucidate further the domain structure, three non-overlapping subfragments were prepared and characterized with respect to their unfolding induced by heat and guanidinium chloride. The three subfragments, each containing two modules, are designated from amino or carboxyl-terminal location as 13 kDa (I6-II1) 16 kDa (II2-I7) and 21 kDa (I8-I9) according to their apparent Mr in SDS/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. All three subfragments exhibited reversible transitions in TBS buffer, behaving in the calorimeter as single co-operative units with Δ H cal Δ H vH close to unity. However, the specific enthalpies and changes in heat capacity associated with the melting of all fragments and subfragments in TBS buffer were low compared to those of most compact globular proteins, suggesting that not all modules are represented. When titrated with guanidinium chloride at 25 °C, all fragments exhibited monophasic reversible unfolding transitions detected by changes in fluorescence. Heating in the presence of 6 m -guanidinium chloride revealed three additional transitions not seen in the absence of denaturants. These transitions have been assigned to three of the four type I finger modules (I6, I7 and I9), one of which (I6) was isolated and shown to retain a compact structure as stable as that observed for this module within the parent fragments. Two other modules (II2 and I7) are destabilized when separated from their neighbors. Thus, despite their small size (50 to 60 amino acid residues), all six of the modules in the gelatin-binding region of fibronectin form independently folded domains, three of which (I6, I7 and I9) are unusually stable. Evidence is provided that four of the six modules interact with each other in the parent fragment. This interaction may explain previously noted disruptions in the otherwise uniform strand-like images seen in electron micrographs of fibronectin.
Adaptive Interference Suppression for the Downlink of a Direct Sequence CDMA System with Long Spreading Sequences

A simple approach for adaptive interference suppression for the downlink (base-to-mobile link) of a direct sequence (DS) based cellular communication system is presented. The base station transmits the sum of the signals destined for the different mobiles, typically attempting to avoid intra-cell interference by employing orthogonal spreading sequences for different mobiles. However, the signal reaching any given mobile passes through a dispersive channel, thus destroying the orthogonality. In this paper, we propose an adaptive linear equalizer at the mobile that reduces interference by approximately restoring orthogonality. The adaptive equalizer uses the pilot's spreading sequence (which observes the same channel as the spreading sequence for the desired mobile) as training. Simulation results for the linear Minimum Mean Squared Error (MMSE) equalizer are presented, demonstrating substantial performance gains over the RAKE receiver. Long spreading sequences (which vary from symbol to symbol) are employed, so that the equalizer adapts not to the time-varying spreading sequences, but to the slowly varying downlink channel. Since the inter-cell interference from any other base station also has the structure of many superposed signals passing through a single channel, the adaptive equalizer can also suppress inter-cell interference, with the tradeoff between suppression of intra- and inter-cell interference and noise enhancement depending on their impact on the Mean Squared Error (MSE).
Bandwidth optimization of a wideband Co-Co antenna array on a thin flexible dielectric using HFSS®

This paper presents several novel techniques for designing a compact Co-Co antenna array for optimal performance over a broad frequency range of one and half octaves. The antenna was modeled and tested on a 6 mil Polyimide composite, a thin flexible substrate, in order to meet size requirements. A slotting technique was used to increase the bandwidth of the antenna. The microstrip transmission line width was increased for co-axial feeding of the antenna with a second slotting technique.
On an “equivalent quadrature” calculation of matrix elements of (z − p2/2m)−1 using an L2 expansion technique

Abstract The problem of interpreting the L 2 discretization of an operator with a continuous spectrum is partially solved for the s -wave kinetic energy, H 0 . It is shown that matrix elements of the resolvent operator (z − H 0 ) −1 where H 0 is a matrix representation of H 0 in an L 2 basis, may be interpreted as quadrature approximations to the actual spectral representation of the resolvent, allowing the z → E + iϵ limit to be taken for E in the continuous spectrum of H 0 with no residual error due to the poles of (z − H 0 ) −1 . Specifically it is shown that diagonalization of H 0 in a Laguerre-type basis is equivalent to a Chebyschev quadrature of the second kind, allowing resolution of the problem of interpreting matrix elements of (z − H 0 ) −1 in the entire cut z -plane.
Long-Range Singlet Energy Transfer in Perylene Bis(phenethylimide) Films

The distance over which singlet energy is transferred in polycrystalline films of perylene bis(phenethylimide), PPEI, was measured by a surface quenching technique in films ranging in thickness from 0.04 to 2.3 μm. Radiative energy transfer was not observed. Accurate values of the exciton transfer length could be obtained only with quenchers exhibiting rapid surface quenching velocities (>105 cm/s), such as poly(3-methylthiophene). The measured singlet exciton transfer length of 2.5 ± 0.5 μm is apparently the longest yet reported. Its approximate value can be inferred directly from the experimental data and is therefore essentially independent of the assumed theoretical model. Our measurements contain no direct information about the mechanism of the exciton motion; however, if it is assumed to be diffusional, the calculated intermolecular exciton hopping time, τh ≪ 100 fs, is unusually fast. This suggests that excitons, in fact, may be delocalized over a number of molecules and that coherent energy transf...
Venous and hepatic vascular responses to indomethacin and prostaglandin E1 in the fetal lamb

Evidence is accumulating that prostaglandins affect the tone of the ductus venosus. Therefore prostaglandins might alter the distribution of umbilical venous return between the ductus venosus and liver. We have examined the effect of indomethacin and prostaglandin E, on the vascular resistance of the umbilical-placental circulation, ductus venosus, and liver in 14 chronically instrumented fetal lambs. We found that indomethacin caused a nearly twofold increase in the vascular resistance of both the ductus venosus and liver. Prostaglandin E,, administered 70 minutes after indomethacin at a dose of 0.41 ± 0.09 (SEM) Vg/min per kilogram of fetal weight, decreased umbilical-placental blood flow, increased the vascular resistance of the umbilical arteries and placenta, and reversed the elevation of the vascular resistances of the ductus venosus and liver. Because both indomethacin and prostaglandin E, affected the resistances of the ductus venosus and liver to the same extent, it is unlikely that prostaglandins of the E series mediate the change in distribution of umbilical venous return between the ductus venosus and liver during fetal stress.
An IBC and certificate based hybrid approach to WiMAX security

Worldwide inter-operability for microwave access (WiMAX) is a promising technology that provides high data throughput with low delays for various user types and modes of operation. While much research had been conducted on physical and MAC layers, little attention has been paid to a comprehensive and efficient security solution for WiMAX. We propose a hybrid security solution combining identity-based cryptography (IBC) and certificate based approaches. We provide detailed message exchange steps in order to achieve a complete security that addresses the various kind of threats identified in previous research. While attaining this goal, efficient fusion of both techniques resulted in a 53% bandwidth improvement compared to the standard's approach, PKMv2. Also, in this hybrid approach, we have clarified the key revocation procedures and key lifetimes. Consequently, to the best of knowledge our approach is the first work that unites the advantages of both techniques for improved security while maintaining the low overhead for WiMAX.
Gating of IsK Channels Expressed in Xenopus Oocytes

The channel underlying the slow component of the voltage-dependent delayed outward rectifier K+ current, I(Ks), in heart is composed of the minK and KvLQT1 proteins. Expression of the minK protein in Xenopus oocytes results in I(Ks)-like currents, I(sK), due to coassembly with the endogenous XKvLQT1. The kinetics and voltage-dependent characteristics of I(sK) suggest a distinct mechanism for voltage-dependent gating. Currents recorded at 40 mV from holding potentials between -60 and -120 mV showed an unusual "cross-over," with the currents obtained from more depolarized holding potentials activating more slowly and deviating from the Cole-Moore prediction. Analysis of the current traces revealed two components with fast and slow kinetics that were not affected by the holding potential. Rather, the relative contribution of the fast component decreased with depolarized holding potentials. Deactivation and reactivation, after a short period of repolarization (100 ms), was markedly faster than the fast component of activation. These gating properties suggest a physiological mechanism by which cardiac I(Ks) may suppress premature action potentials.
Reconfiguring Child and Parental Rights: A Case for Coerced Contraception

Flagrant child abuse and neglect touches community sensibilities and suggests the option of coerced contraception in dealing with irresponsible contraception. This idea is resisted by the notion that the right to reproduce is fundamental. Law and ethics uphold this right, seeing it grounded in privacy and bodily integrity. Gender, race and class issues also argue against the idea of coerced contraception. This essay challenges these traditional positions by constructing a case for coerced contraception from several viewpoints. On balance, the right to reproduce has considerably less legal and moral weight compared to the birthright of the child not to be harmed and to have an open future. Examined critically, coerced contraception does not represent an unusual or excessive burden. Strict scrutiny and due process issues are addressed in allowing coerced contraception to become public policy. Various objections to this thesis are anticipated and answered. These include, but are not limited to, the ideas that personal dignity and the physician patient relationship are endangered and that a slippery slope would lead to greater restrictions on personal freedom.
RESIDUAL PECTINESTERASE ACTIVITY IN DEHYDRATED ONION AND GARLIC PRODUCTS

During the dehydration of onion and garlic products, use of high temperatures is undesirable due to the potential loss of aroma and flavor characteristics. As a consequence, residual pectinesterase (PE) activity may be found in these dehydrated spices. This study reports the presence of PE activity in raw onions and in dehydrated onion and garlic products. Pectinesterase activity is higher in the raw onion stem disks, and dehydrated products made from this tissue, than in the bulbs. Dehydrated onion products induced gelation of citrus pectin solutions and tomato purees. Although some inactivation of PE in dehydrated onion water suspensions and extracts was observed after 10 min at 50C, complete inactivation required 2 min at 82C. Commercial dehydration operations may require reevaluation to eliminate residual PE activity in dehydrated onion and garlic products. Cette etude evalue la presence d'activite pectinesterase dans de l'oignon cru et de l'oignon et de l'ail deshydrates. L'oignon deshydrate induit une gelification des solutions de pectine de citron et de purees de tomates. Bien qu'une inactivation de la pectinesterase dans des suspensions dans l'eau d'oignon deshydrate soit observee apres 10 mn a 50°C, une inactivation complete exige un traitement de 2 mn a 82°C.
A Microstructural study of the crystallization of the amorphous alloy Ni40Fe40P14B6

The microstructure and growth characteristics in the annealed amorphous alloy Ni40Fe40P14B6 were studied by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Samples were annealed for 2 h at 370°C to initiate crystallization. In the early stages of crystallization, the crystals were well separated and of a nearly rectangular section. The smaller crystals were of a high degree of perfection and were single phase. All crystals had a (Fe,Ni)3(P,B) type bct structure. The crystals consist of a collection of plates and spheroids about 100A across. The spatial orientation of the plates varies from region to region of the crystal indicating that the crystals are twinned. Dark field analysis showed that the plates consist of microtwins or faults. It is concluded that the plate and spheroid structure is caused by small differences in composition within the crystal. The crystallography, however, does not vary across the crystal. This suggests that the amorphous matrix is not chemically homogeneous.
A Parallel Bottom-Up Resolution Algorithm Using Cilk

Rapid developments of multicore processors in the last ten years have accelerated the advancements in concurrency platforms. Performance of bottom-up resolution algorithms used in logic programming and artificial intelligent systems, can potentially be improved using the parallel programming constructs offered by these platforms (e.g., OpenMP, Cilk++, etc.). In this work we use Cilk++ to implement a parallel bottom-up resolution algorithm, and study how different parallel programming constructs affect its performance. Our experimental results show that a careful Cilk++ implementation of the algorithm can lead to significant speedup w.r.t. its traditional serial implementation.
Structural Inequities and the Achievement Gap in Urban Schools

If teachers represent a child’s most important asset, they also can be a child’s greatest liability, especially in states where a shortage of well-qualified teachers impedes the academic progress of African American students in learning contexts. The author asserts that a transformation in practices must occur in teacher education programs if these programs are to become places where preservice candidates learn to adopt pedagogies that are instrumental in the academic achievement of African American students in urban schools. A proposal for comprehensive, transformative approaches for achieving systemic change is warranted in the eradication of structural inequities that currently exist in urban schools.
Prussian blues from the thermal decomposition of H4Fe(CN)6 and H3Fe(CN)6

Abstract Solid H 3 Fe(CN) 6 and H 4 Fe(CN) 6 were heated at constant temperature in nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen. In these atmospheres, Prussian Blue type materials were formed at temperatures of 160° or less. The materials were characterized by chemical analysis, i.r. spectra, Mo¨ssbauer spectra, X-ray powder diffraction patterns, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The products were reacted with water vapor, ammonia, and hydrogen chloride and approximately two moles of each gas per mole of iron were added. H 4 Fe(CN) 6 was heated at 63·0° in moist oxygen and the decomposition followed by weight changes and by changes in the magnetic susceptibility. The steps of the Prussian Blue formation under these conditions are proposed.
Factors Affecting Turnover among Family Child Care Providers: A Longitudinal Study.

Abstract The high turnover rates evident among family child care providers undermine the quality of care provided to children. In this study, we followed 57 family child care providers longitudinally to identify precursors of turnover. Job stress, education, and training directly affected turnover. Providers most likely to leave the profession were more educated, less trained, and reported higher levels of stress. Training and the presence of the provider's own young children indirectly affected turnover through their relationship to job stress. Providers who cared for their own preschool children experienced higher levels of job stress. In contrast, training was associated with lower job stress, but only for less educated providers. The presence of the provider's own young children and training also were associated with greater job satisfaction, but job satisfaction was unrelated to turnover. Finally, there was a curvilinear relationship between job tenure and job stress and, to a lesser extent, turnover. Providers who had been caring for children between 2 and 8 years reported the highest levels of job stress and turnover, although turnover rates were also high during the first 2 years of beginning family child care.
Tailoring the mechanical properties of polyacrylamide-based hydrogels

Abstract Here, we studied the mechanical properties of polyacrylic acid-co-polyacrylamide (pAAc/pAAm) and polyacrylate-co-polyacrylamide (pNaAc/pAAm)-based hydrogels as a function of composition and total polymer content. While both polyacrylate and polyacrylic acid are weakly-charged polyelectrolytes with carboxylate side groups, they exhibit different behavior as copolymers with polyacrylamide. In swelling studies the highest degree of volumetric expansion occurs in the polyacrylate-rich hydrogels. Rheological measurements indicate that the shear storage modulus of the hydrogels typically increases with the percentage of polyacrylamide for a given polymer volume fraction; however, the simultaneous strengthening and embrittling effects of polyacrylamide as a copolymer are more dramatic for the pNaAc/pAAm hydrogels.
HPV vaccine coverage among men who have sex with men – National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System, United States, 2011

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk for disease associated with human papillomavirus (HPV). In late 2011, HPV vaccine was recommended for males through age 21 and MSM through age 26. Using data from the 2011 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System, we assessed self-reported HPV vaccine uptake among MSM, using multivariate analysis to calculate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Among 3221 MSM aged 18–26, 157 (4.9%) reported ≥1 vaccine dose. Uptake was higher among men who visited a healthcare provider (aPR 2.3, CI: 1.2–4.2), disclosed same-sex sexual attraction/behavior to a provider (aPR 2.1, CI: 1.3–3.3), reported a positive HIV test (aPR 2.2, CI: 1.5–3.2), or received hepatitis vaccine (aPR 3.9, CI: 2.4–6.4). Of 3064 unvaccinated MSM, 2326 (75.9%) had visited a healthcare provider within 1 year. These national data on HPV vaccine uptake among MSM provide a baseline as vaccination recommendations are implemented.
Hume, modern patriotism, and commercial society

Contemporary liberal thought is increasingly baffled by the question of what kinds of moral obligations we ought to attribute to our common civic ties. Liberal patriotism is often seen as an obsolete inheritance, fundamentally in tension with values of liberty, equality, and impartiality. This paper examines the moral theory of David Hume in order to counter this assertion of incompatibility and uncover the roots of a view of modern patriotism that can incorporate impartiality, interest, and partial benevolence.
Moving vortex phases, dynamical symmetry breaking, and jamming for vortices in honeycomb pinning arrays

We show using numerical simulations that vortices in honeycomb pinning arrays can exhibit a remarkable variety of dynamical phases that are distinct from those found for triangular and square pinning arrays. In the honeycomb arrays, it is possible for the interstitial vortices to form dimer or higher n-mer states which have an additional orientational degree of freedom that can lead to the formation of vortex molecular crystals. For filling fractions where dimer states appear, a novel dynamical symmetry breaking can occur when the dimers flow in one of two possible alignment directions. This leads to transport in the direction transverse to the applied drive. We show that dimerization produces distinct types of moving phases which depend on the direction of the driving force with respect to the pinning lattice symmetry. When the dimers are driven along certain directions, a reorientation of the dimers can produce a jamming phenomenon which results in a strong enhancement in the critical depinning force. The jamming can also cause unusual effects such as an increase in the critical depinning force when the size of the pinning sites is reduced.
IMMUNOGLOBULIN SUPERFAMILY MEMBERS PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE MOSQUITO IMMUNE SYSTEM

Immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) proteins are known for their ability to specifically recognize and adhere to other molecules, mediating cell-surface reception and pathogen recognition. Mammalian IgSF proteins such as antibodies are among the best characterized molecules of the immune system; in contrast, the involvement of invertebrate IgSF members in immunity has not been broadly studied. Analysis of the predicted Anopheles gambiae transcriptome identified 138 proteins that have at least one immunoglobulin domain. Challenge with Plasmodium, Gram-negative or Gram-positive bacteria resulted in significant regulation of 85 IgSF genes, indicating potential roles for these molecules in infection responses and immunity. Based on sequence and expression data, six infection-responsive with immunoglobulin domain (IRID 1-6) genes were chosen and functionally characterized with regard to their role in innate immunity. Reverse-genetic gene-silencing assays showed IRID3, IRID5 and IRID6 contribute to viability upon bacterial infection while IRID4 and IRID6 are involved in limiting Plasmodium falciparum infection.
Investigation of the Fusarium virguliforme fvtox1 mutants revealed that the FvTox1 toxin is involved in foliar sudden death syndrome development in soybean

The soil borne fungus, Fusarium virguliforme, causes sudden death syndrome (SDS) in soybean, which is a serious foliar and root rot disease. The pathogen has never been isolated from the diseased foliar tissues; phytotoxins produced by the pathogen are believed to cause foliar SDS symptoms. One of these toxins, a 13.5-kDa acidic protein named FvTox1, has been hypothesized to interfere with photosynthesis in infected soybean plants and cause foliar SDS. The objective of this study is to determine if FvTox1 is involved in foliar SDS development. We created and studied five independent knockout fvtox1 mutants to study the function of FvTox1. We conducted Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation to accomplish homologous recombination of FvTox1 with a hygromycin B resistance gene, hph, to generate the fvtox1 mutants. Approximately 40 hygromycin-resistant transformants were obtained from 10(6) conidial spores of the F. virguliforme Mont-1 isolate when the spores were co-cultivated with the A. tumefaciens EHA105 but not with LBA4044 strain carrying a recombinant binary plasmid, in which the hph gene encoding hygromycin resistance was flanked by 5'- and 3'-end FvTox1 sequences. We observed homologous recombination-mediated integration of hph into the FvTox1 locus among five independent fvtox1 mutants. In stem-cutting assays using cut soybean seedlings fed with cell-free F. virguliforme culture filtrates, the knockout fvtox1 mutants caused chlorophyll losses and foliar SDS symptoms, which were over twofold less than those caused by the virulent F. virguliforme Mont-1 isolate. Similarly, in root inoculation assays, more than a twofold reduction in foliar SDS development and chlorophyll losses was observed among the seedlings infected with the fvtox1 mutants as compared to the seedlings infected with the wild-type Mont-1 isolate. These results suggest that FvTox1 is a major virulence factor involved in foliar SDS development in soybean. It is expected that interference of the function of this toxin in transgenic soybean plants will lead to generation of SDS-resistant soybean cultivars.
A Conceptual Aerospace Vehicle Structural System Modeling, Analysis and Design Process

A process for aerospace structural concept analysis and design is presented, with examples of a blended-wing-body fuselage, a multi-bubble fuselage concept, a notional crew exploration vehicle, and a high altitude long endurance aircraft. Aerospace vehicle structures must withstand all anticipated mission loads, yet must be designed to have optimal structural weight with the required safety margins. For a viable systems study of advanced concepts, these conflicting requirements must be imposed and analyzed early in the conceptual design cycle, preferably with a high degree of fidelity. In this design process, integrated multidisciplinary analysis tools are used in a collaborative engineering environment. First, parametric solid and surface models including the internal structural layout are developed for detailed finite element analyses. Multiple design scenarios are generated for analyzing several structural configurations and material alternatives. The structural stress, deflection, strain, and margins of safety distributions are visualized and the design is improved. Over several design cycles, the refined vehicle parts and assembly models are generated. The accumulated design data is used for the structural mass comparison and concept ranking. The present application focus on the blended-wing-body vehicle structure and advanced composite material are also discussed.
Glial-defined rhombomere boundaries in developing Xenopus hindbrain.

The vertebrate central nervous system is characterized by regional specialization, which arises during early development and contributes to patterning the emerging central nervous system (CNS). In the hindbrain, rhombomeres demarcate nonoverlapping regions of the CNS that give rise to distinct neural structures. The cellular structures that define boundaries between adjacent rhombomeres are as yet unclear. However, in certain species the boundary regions between discrete CNS regions appear to be defined by specialized glial cells. Here, we show that in developing Xenopus, DMγ, a membrane protein of the proteolipid protein family, is expressed in a subset of radial glia. During development, DMγ transcripts are first expressed in presumptive glial cells throughout the hindbrain, but later become confined to the ventricular zone at rhombomere centers, whereas the protein is exclusively expressed in radial glial cell processes that occupy the rhombomere boundary regions. Likewise, early in development vimentin and glial fibrillary acidic protein are extensively coexpressed in hindbrain radial glia but subsequently define distinct rhombomere domains: vimentin remains localized in radial glia at the rhombomere boundary regions, whereas expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein becomes restricted to the centers. Moreover, radial glial processes at the boundary region are distinguishable from those at the center region; the processes of the boundary region radial glia extend upward in a fan-shaped arrangement and are encircled by the processes from the center glia. These data suggest that an early event in determining rhombomere topology is the specification of both morphologically and biochemically distinct subsets of radial glia. J. Comp. Neurol. 424:47–57, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Inotropic response to hypothermia and the temperature-dependence of ryanodine action in isolated rabbit and rat ventricular muscle: implications for excitation-contraction coupling.

We have used the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) inhibitor ryanodine to assess the contribution of the SR to the increase in twitch tension seen on cooling the mammalian myocardium. To select a suitable concentration of ryanodine, i.e., one that will exert a maximal effect at all temperatures studied, concentration-response curves for ryanodine action were constructed at 37 degrees, 29 degrees, and 23 degrees C in ventricular muscle from rabbit and rat. Using a concentration of ryanodine (1 microM) that exerted a maximal effect at all temperatures studied, the ability of ryanodine to inhibit SR function at 37 degrees, 29 degrees, and 23 degrees C was then confirmed by using rapid cooling contractures (RCCs) to provide an indirect assessment of the SR calcium content. To estimate the rest decay of the SR calcium content in the absence and presence of ryanodine (1 microM), RCCs were initiated after a range of rest intervals (0.3-300 seconds) in rabbit muscles maintained at 37 degrees, 29 degrees, or 23 degrees C. In the absence of ryanodine, low temperatures elevated RCCs at all rest intervals studied. In the presence of ryanodine, RCCs were only seen at rest intervals shorter than 2.0 seconds, even at 23 degrees C, the lowest temperature studied. Thus, even at 23 degrees C, ryanodine appears to be effective at inhibiting SR calcium release in muscles stimulated at 0.5 Hz (i.e., after 2 seconds rest). Therefore, using this concentration of ryanodine (1 microM) and a stimulation rate of 0.5 Hz, we have investigated the contribution of the SR to the positive inotropic response to hypothermia. Under these conditions, the positive inotropic response to cooling in rabbit ventricle was almost unaffected by the inhibition of the SR with ryanodine. In rat ventricle, a tissue in which SR calcium release may dominate excitation-contraction (EC) coupling, the inotropic response to hypothermia was still observed, although developed tension was strongly depressed at all temperatures. These results suggest that a change in SR function is not the principal mediator of the large (400-500%) increase in force associated with cooling mammalian ventricular muscle from 37 degrees to 25 degrees C. The ryanodine-sensitive fraction of tension development was greatest at 37 degrees C, suggesting that the relative contribution of the SR to tension development in rabbit ventricle is reduced at temperatures below 37 degrees C.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Controlled Mechanical Extraction of Teeth

Over 20 million teeth are extracted in the U.S. each year. Today dentists utilize forceps and blunt force, causing a painful and traumatic experience for the patient. The Tooth FerryTM will facilitate tooth extraction and minimize local trauma by implementing a novel mechanical method of extracting teeth. The mean procedure time will be reduced by 20%, saving the dental industry $2.1 billion per year.
Creep and drying shrinkage of calcium silicate pastes III. A hypothesis of irreversible strains

Abstract Irreversible strains, measured on pastes of pure calcium silicates which were loaded without drying, dried to 53% rh without loading, or were loaded and simultaneously dried to 53% rh, are correlated with indications of structural changes occurring within the hydrated pastes. These changes are interpreted in terms of microstructural models of the hydrated pastes. It is assumed that irreversible strains are caused only by changes in the “pore component” and the “CSH component.” In young pastes irreversible shrinkage can be explained by a reduction in pores in the range 40–100 A diameter. In well-hydrated pastes structural changes in the silicate framework of the “CSH component” dominate irreversibility. Microshearing between CSH particles is thought to occur under load. An increase in degree of silicate polymerization bonding occurs on drying, and this increase is greater when drying takes place under load.
Osteoblastic phenotype of rat marrow stromal cells cultured in the presence of dexamethasone, beta-glycerolphosphate, and L-ascorbic acid

We investigated the effects of the time course of addition of osteogenic supplements dexamethasone, beta-glycerolphosphate, and L-ascorbic acid to rat marrow stromal cells, and the exposure time on the proliferation and differentiation of the cells. It was the goal of these experiments to determine the time point for supplement addition to optimize marrow stromal cell proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation. To determine this, two studies were performed; one study was based on the age of the cells from harvest, and the other study was based on the duration of exposure to supplemented medium. Cells were seen to proliferate rapidly at early time points in the presence and absence of osteogenic supplements as determined by 3H-thymidine incorporation into the DNA of replicating cells. These results were supported by cell counts ascertained through total DNA analysis. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and osteocalcin production at 21 days were highest for both experimental designs when the cells were exposed to supplemented medium immediately upon harvest. The ALP levels at 21 days were six times greater for cells maintained in supplements throughout than for control cells cultured in the absence of supplements for both studies, reaching an absolute value of 75 x 10(-7) micromole/min/cell. Osteocalcin production reached 20 x 10(-6) ng/cell at 21 days in both studies for cells maintained in supplemented medium throughout the study, whereas the control cells produced an insignificant amount of osteocalcin. These results suggest that the addition of osteogenic supplements to marrow-derived cells early in the culture period did not inhibit proliferation and greatly enhanced the osteoblastic phenotype of cells in a rat model.
Raman spectroscopy of atomic fluorine

Abstract We have measured the Raman scattering cross section of atomic fluorine for transitions between the ground fine-structure electronic states. The fluorine was contained a in heated, static chamber. Gas temperature, determined from the rotational Raman spectrum of molecular fluorine, was used as an input to calculate the degree of fluorine dissociation (assuming thermodynamic and chemical equilibrium). The Raman frequency shift and depolarization ratio were also determined. Our results indicate that Raman scattering can be used as a probe for atomic fluorine.
An Integrated Approach to Teaching the Statement of Cash Flows

Abstract Recent research studies have shown that the statement of cash flows provides important information for business decisionmaking. Also, generally accepted accounting principles require preparation of the statement of cash flows as one of the three primary financial statements. Yet, in light of authoritative pronouncements and research evidence, examination of 64 recent textbooks in finance, management, marketing, and accounting reveals insufficient emphasis on the statement of cash flows. Suggestions for remedying the situation are provided.
A low temperature enhancement in the specific heat of germanium telluride

Abstract The specific heat of single crystal germanium telluride has been measured in the interval 1.2 - 22 K. A specific heat enhancement has been found between 1 and 5 K, with a broad maximum at 1.83 K.
ON MARTIN EGER'S “A TALE OF TWO CONTROVERSIES”

. Criticisms are presented against Eger's challenge to the demarcation between the natural sciences and ethics. Arguments are given both against his endorsement of the “new” philosophy of science and against his rejection of the fact-value dichotomy. However, his educational recommendations are reinforced rather than weakened by these criticisms
Radial artery grafts in women: utilization and results.

Background Despite a known survival benefit with the use of the left internal mammary artery, it is used less frequently in women when compared with men. This study evaluated the hypotheses that the radial artery graft is used less frequently in women compared with men, that the radial artery is smaller in women compared with men, and that the use of the radial artery influences operative mortality and long-term survival in women. Methods The use of a radial artery graft was evaluated in 2,633 patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass. Radial artery size and flow were compared in 207 patients who had intraoperative radial artery diameter and flow measurements. Propensity scoring was utilized to compare short- and long-term outcomes in a matched cohort of 588 women. Results Of 862 women (33%) who had isolated coronary artery bypass grafting, only 301 (35%) received a radial artery graft versus 44% of men (786 of 1,771, p Conclusions Women received fewer radial artery grafts than men. Radial artery size and flow were significantly less in women than in men. Use of a radial artery graft did not influence operative mortality among women. However, 5-year survival among women who received a radial artery graft was significantly better than among women who did not.
Locating a Buried Magnetic Dipole

Five measurements of the magnetic-field vector near the surface of the earth are shown to be sufficient to determine the orientation and location of a buried magnetic dipole. A discussion of field experiments which demonstrate the location concept is included.
On the Level of Guaranteed Services for Signaling Control in Cellular Networks

In this paper, we discuss our preliminary work on signaling overload control for cellular services which requires adaptability and scalability as well as guaranteed level of service. We propose a set of controls that can provide different grades of service to different service classes effectively. The controls are resource sharing schemes proposed consisting of a token rate control combined with priority scheduling and an awareness of the transport network state. Simulation results are given illustrating the behavior of new signaling overload controls and comparative performance with the other existing controls in the literature.