bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic biology and therapeutic strategies for the degenerating brain
Authors: Agustín‐Pavón Carmen , Isalan Mark
Published: August 2014

Synthetic biology is an emerging engineering discipline that attempts to design and rewire biological components, so as to achieve new functions in a robust and predictable manner. The new tools and strategies provided by synthetic biology have the potential to improve therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, synthetic biology will help design small molecules, proteins, gene networks, and vectors to target disease‐related genes. Ultimately, new intelligent delivery systems will provide targeted and sustained therapeutic benefits. New treatments will arise from combining ‘protect and repair’ strategies: the use of drug treatments, the promotion of neurotrophic factor synthesis, and gene targeting. Going beyond RNAi and artificial transcription factors, site‐specific genome modification is likely to play an increasing role, especially with newly available gene editing tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 systems. Taken together, these advances will help develop safe and long‐term therapies for many brain diseases in human patients.
Comparison of interactions between human serum albumin and silver nanoparticles of different sizes using spectroscopic methods
Authors: Zhang Wanju , Zhang Qingbo , Wang Fang , Yuan Lian , Xu Ziqiang , Jiang Fenglei , Liu Yi
Published: August 2014

Three different sizes (15.9 ± 2.1 nm, 26.4 ± 3.2 nm and 39.8 ± 4.0 nm, respectively) of citrate‐coated silver nanoparticles (SNPs) have been synthesized and characterized. The interactions of the synthesized SNPs with human serum albumin (HSA) at physiological pH have been systematically studied by UV‐vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy, three‐dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. The results indicate that the SNPs can bind to HSA with high affinity and quench the intrinsic fluorescence of HSA. The binding constants and quenching rate constants were calculated. The apparent association constants (Kapp) values are 2.14 × 104 M–1 for 15.9 nm SNP, 1.65 × 104 M–1 for 26.4 nm SNP and 1.37 × 104 M–1 for 39.8 nm SNP, respectively. The values of binding constant obtained from the fluorescence quenching data match well with that determined from the absorption spectral changes. These results suggest that the smaller SNPs have stronger interactions to HSA than the larger ones at the same concentrations. Synchronous fluorescence, three‐dimensional fluorescence and CD spectroscopy studies show that the synthesized SNPs can induce slight conformational changes in HSA. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Arterial supply to the thyroid gland and the relationship between the recurrent laryngeal nerve and the inferior thyroid artery in human fetal cadavers
Authors: Özgüner G. , Sulak O.
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study was to identify the arterial supply to the thyroid gland and the relationship between the inferior thyroid artery (ITA) and the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) in fetal cadavers using anatomical dissection. The anterior necks of 200 fetuses were dissected. The origins of the superior thyroid artery (STA) and the ITA and location of the ITA in relation to the entrance of the thyroid lobe were examined. The relationship between the ITA and the RLN was determined. The origins of the STA were classified as: external carotid artery, common carotid artery (CCA), and the thyrolingual trunk. The origins of the ITA were the thyrocervical trunk and the CCA. The ITA was absent on the left side in two cases. The relationship of the RLN to the ITA fell into seven different types. Type 1: the RLN lay posterior to the artery; right (42.5%), left (65%). Type 2: the RLN lay anterior to the artery; right (40.5%), left (22.5%). Type 3: the RLN lay parallel to the artery; right (11.5%), left (7%). Type 4: the RLN lay between the two branches of the artery; right (1%), left (3.5%). Type 5: The extralaryngeal branch of the RLN was detected before it crossed the ITA; right (4.5%), left (0%). Type 6: the ITA lay between the two branches of the RLN; right (0%), left (0.5%). Type 7: the branches of the RLN lay among the branches of the ITA; right (0%), left (0.5%). The results from this study would be useful in future thyroid surgeries. Clin. Anat. 27:1185–1192, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Testicular self‐examination and testicular cancer: a cost‐utility analysis
Authors: Aberger Michael , Wilson Bradley , Holzbeierlein Jeffrey M. , Griebling Tomas L. , Nangia Ajay K.
Published: August 2014

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has recommended against testicular self‐examinations (TSE) or clinical examination for testicular cancer screening. However, in this recommendation there was no consideration of the significant fiscal cost of treating advanced disease versus evaluation of benign disease. In this study, a cost‐utility validation for TSE was performed. The cost of treatment for an advanced‐stage testicular tumor (both seminomatous and nonseminomatous) was compared to the cost of six other scenarios involving the clinical assessment of a testicular mass felt during self‐examination (four benign and two early‐stage malignant). Medicare reimbursements were used as an estimate for a national cost standard. The total treatment cost for an advanced‐stage seminoma ($48,877) or nonseminoma ($51,592) equaled the cost of 313–330 benign office visits ($156); 180–190 office visits with scrotal ultrasound ($272); 79–83 office visits with serial scrotal ultrasounds and labs ($621); 6–7 office visits resulting in radical inguinal orchiectomy for benign pathology ($7,686) or 2–3 office visits resulting in treatment and surveillance of an early‐stage testicular cancer ($17,283: seminoma, $26,190: nonseminoma). A large number of clinical evaluations based on the TSE for benign disease can be made compared to the cost of one missed advanced‐stage tumor. An average of 2.4 to 1 cost benefit ratio was demonstrated for early detected testicular cancer versus advanced‐stage disease.
Ex vivo protective effects of nicotinamide and 3‐aminobenzamide on rat synaptosomes treated with Aβ(1–42)
Authors: Turunc Bayrakdar Ezgi , Armagan Guliz , Uyanikgil Yigit , Kanit Lutfiye , Koylu Ersin , Yalcin Ayfer
Published: August 2014

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by the presence of senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, along with synaptic loss. The underlying mechanisms of AD are not clarified yet, but oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are important factors. Overactivation of poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase‐1 (PARP‐1) enzyme has been known to cause neuroinflammation and cell death in neurodegenerative processes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effects of the PARP‐1 inhibitors, 3‐aminobenzamide (3‐AB) and nicotinamide (NA), against amyloid β peptide (1–42) (Aβ(1–42))‐induced oxidative damage and mitochondrial reduction capacity on isolated synaptosomes. Rats were injected intraperitoneally with 3‐AB (30–100 mg kg−1), NA (100–500 mg kg−1) or with saline for 7 days. Synaptosomes were incubated with 10–30 μM Aβ(1–42) or saline for 6 h at 37 °C. Ex vivo Aβ(1–42) treatment significantly induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in synaptosomes of the saline group, while synaptosomes of 3‐AB and NA groups showed significant decreases in lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen species production and protein oxidation. Moreover, both NA and 3‐AB were able to improve the mitochondrial reduction capacity against Aβ(1–42). These data suggest that NA and 3‐AB may have protective effects in neurodegenerative processes because of the reduced levels of oxidative stress and the improvement of mitochondrial function. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Four‐Component Synthesis of β‐Enaminone and Pyrazole through Phosphine‐Free Palladium‐Catalyzed Cascade Carbonylation
Authors: Shi Lijun , Xue Liqin , Lang Rui , Xia Chungu , Li Fuwei
Published: August 2014

The carbonylative domino synthesis of enaminones and pyrazoles has been performed with the NN bidentate palladium catalyst to achieve excellent selectivity. These results have confirmed that the carbonylative Sonogashira coupling of iodobenzenes with terminal alkynes is accompanied by the Michael addition of amines or phenylhydrazine in a one‐pot method, which generates the desired products. This protocol demonstrates wide substrate tolerance, including hitherto unused aromatic amines, to yield the corresponding pure aromatic β‐enaminones, which are subsequently converted into the 3‐acylindole derivatives under mild conditions.
Desorption‐ and Decomposition‐Based Techniques for the Regeneration of Activated Carbon
Authors: Zanella Odivan , Tessaro Isabel Cristina , Féris Liliana Amaral
Published: August 2014

Activated carbon (AC) is an adsorbent used in most adsorption processes related to micro removal of pollutants from the water phase, but the application is limited due to high costs and environmental issues related to the disposal after saturation. Different regeneration techniques, reducing costs and minimizing environmental impact, are reported for the reuse of saturated AC. These techniques can be performed via two separate strands: regeneration based only on desorption of adsorbed compounds in AC, or based on the decomposition of pollutants adsorbed on AC. Literature on the regeneration of saturated ACs is reviewed and promising techniques are highlighted. One of the most challenging bottlenecks preventing the commercial application of regeneration technologies is the difficulty of scaling‐up.
Kinetics and Mechanism of the Racemization of Aryl Allenes Catalyzed by Cationic Gold(I) Phosphine Complexes
Authors: Harris Robert J. , Nakafuku Kohki , Widenhoefer Ross A.
Published: August 2014

The kinetics of the racemization of aromatic 1,3‐disubstituted allenes catalyzed by gold phosphine complexes has been investigated. The rate of gold‐catalyzed allene racemization displayed first‐order dependence on allene, and catalyst concentration and kinetic analysis of gold‐catalyzed allene racemization as a function of allene and phosphine electron‐donor ability established the accumulation of electron density on the phosphine atom and the depletion of electron density on the terminal allenyl carbon atoms in the rate‐limiting transition state for racemization. These and other observations were in accord with a mechanism for allene racemization involving rapid and reversible inter‐ and intramolecular allene exchange followed by turnover‐limiting, unimolecular conversion of a chiral gold η2‐allene complex to an achiral η1‐allylic cation intermediate through a bent and twisted η1‐allene transition state. With respect to proper ligand selection, these studies reveal that both electron‐poor phosphine ligands and polar solvents facilitate racemization.
Preparation and Electric Property of Polysilsesquioxane Thin Films Incorporating Carbazole Groups
Authors: Watase Seiji , Fujisaki Daiki , Watanabe Mitsuru , Mitamura Koji , Nishioka Noboru , Matsukawa Kimihiro
Published: August 2014

New silsesquioxane incorporating a carbazole groups (PCTSQ) has been synthesized by a click thiol–ene reaction and a subsequent sol–gel reaction. To evaluate the electric property of this hybrid, diode devices have been fabricated by using PCTSQ thin film by spin‐coating onto n‐type ZnO film prepared by the electrodeposition method. The thin film hybrid devices showed good electric characteristics and high rectification ratio, as well as worked as a rectifier.
In Situ Electrodeposition of an Asymmetric Sol–Gel Membrane Based on an Octadecyltrimethoxysilane Langmuir Film
Authors: Hitrik Maria , Lev Ovadia , Mandler Daniel
Published: August 2014

The unique properties of Langmuir film formation were utilized in assembling a thin skin of an asymmetric membrane. An octadecyltrimethoxysilane (ODTMS) Langmuir monolayer was formed at the air–water interface and served as the substrate for growing a bulky sol–gel polymer in situ. The latter was based on the electrochemical deposition of tetramethoxysilane dissolved in the water subphase by means of horizontal touch electrochemistry. The resultant asymmetric layer that consisted of a thin hydrophobic ODTMS Langmuir film connected to a bulk hydrophilic sol–gel network was studied in situ and ex situ by using various techniques, such as cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and goniometry. We found that a porous hydrophilic film grew on top of a hydrophobic layer as was evident from TEM, contact angle, and EIS analyses. The film thickness and film permeability could be controlled by changing the deposition conditions such as the potential window applied and its duration. Hence, this method offers an alternative approach for assembling asymmetric films for various applications
Chromophoric and Dendritic Phosphoramidites Enable Construction of Functional Dendrimers with Exceptional Brightness and Water Solubility
Authors: Shaller Andrew D. , Wan Wei , Zhao Baoming , Li Alexander D. Q.
Published: August 2014

The fluorescence brightness of a molecular probe determines whether it can be effectively measured and its water solubility dictates if it can be applied in real‐world biological systems. However, molecules brighter than the most efficient fluorescent dyes or particles brighter than quantum dots are hard to come by, especially when they must also be soluble in water. In this report, chromophoric phosphoramidites are used in a solid‐state synthesis to construct functional dendrimers. When highly twisted chromophores are chosen and the proper spacers and dendrons are introduced, the resultant dendrimers emit exceptionally bright fluorescence. Chromophores, spacers, and dendrons are stitched together by efficient phosphoramidite reagents, which afford high‐yield water‐soluble phosphodiester linkages after deprotection. The resulting water‐soluble dendrimers are exceptionally bright.
Mechanistic Study on the Palladium(II)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of 2,3‐Disubstituted Indoles Under Aerobic Conditions: Anion Effects and the Development of a Low‐Catalyst‐Loading Process
Authors: Yao Bo , Wang Qian , Zhu Jieping
Published: August 2014

As a result of detailed mechanistic and kinetic studies, we have proposed that PdX2‐catalyzed oxidative coupling of o‐alkynylanilines 1 with terminal alkynes 2 under aerobic conditions is initiated by aminopalladation of 1 followed by ligand exchange of the resulting σ‐indolylpalladium(II) complex with 2, reductive elimination and N‐demethylation. Side reactions associated with intermediates on the way to 2,3‐disubstituted indoles 3 were identified, and the roles of acetate and iodide in channeling the reaction towards the desired product were established. Based on kinetic and spectroscopic studies, the soluble iodide‐ligated Pd0 species was proposed to be the resting state of the catalyst and its oxidation to active PdII species was the turnover‐limiting step. Catalytic conditions with low loading of Pd(OAc)2 (0.0005 to 0.001 equiv) were subsequently developed.
Simulation of Nitrous Oxide Emission and Mineralized Nitrogen under Different Straw Retention Conditions Using a Denitrification–Decomposition Model
Authors: Chen Can , Chen Deli , Lam Shu Kee
Published: August 2014

Straw retention has been adopted worldwide to increase crop production and it has also been shown to reduce nitrous oxide (N2O) emission from agricultural soils. However, it is difficult to accurately predict N2O emission under different straw retention methods without a long‐term experiment. This study used data from the maize planting season in the Griffith region, Australia, to test whether the denitrification–decomposition (DNDC) model can simulate the rate, annual amount, and pattern of N2O emission. The sensitivity to several important factors which may affect N2O emission was analyzed. The research investigated whether the DNDC model can be used to determine the best straw retention method to reduce N2O emission. The results were as follows: (1) The DNDC model could be used to simulate soil and climate conditions of Griffith region. The correlation coefficients of simulated and observed water‐filled pore space and temperature were 0.9532 (n = 126) and 0.9781 (n = 365), respectively; (2) the simulation values of 300N‐burn and 300N‐incorporate for a year were 12.96 and 8.08 kg N ha−1 year−1 and the emission factors were 3.31 and 1.77, respectively; (3) the emission reduction effect and mineralized N accumulation of straw incorporation were better compared to burnt straw, using the DNDC model. The correlation coefficients of simulated and observed daily values of 300N‐burn and 300N‐incorporate were 0.8743 and 0.8023, respectively; (4) the amount and frequency of nitrogen fertilizer application, irrigation frequency, and soil texture could affect N2O emission, whereas soil pH and soil bulk density did not.
Highly Twisted 1,2:8,9‐Dibenzozethrenes: Synthesis, Ground State, and Physical Properties
Authors: Sun Zhe , Zheng Bin , Hu Pan , Huang Kuo‐Wei , Wu Jishan
Published: August 2014

Two soluble and stable 1,2:8,9‐dibenzozethrene derivatives (3 a,b) are synthesized through a palladium‐catalyzed cyclodimerization reaction. X‐ray crystallographic analysis shows that these molecules are highly twisted owing to congestion at the cove region. Broken‐symmetry DFT calculations predict that they have a singlet biradical ground state with a smaller biradical character and a large singlet–triplet energy gap; these predictions are supported by NMR and electronic absorption measurements. They have small energy gaps and exhibit far‐red/near‐infrared absorption/emission and amphoteric redox behaviors.
Motion Monitoring of MEMS Actuator with Electromagnetic Induction
Authors: Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Kobayashi Seiya , Iwamatsu Shinnosuke , Yahagi Toru , Sato Masahiro , Oizumi Norikazu
Published: August 2014

Previously, we have reported an electromagnetically driven two‐axis tilting MEMS mirror, a two‐axis tilting grating, and a three‐axis movable MEMS mirror (two‐axis tilting and one‐axis vibration). These devices can be easily actuated by the electromagnetic force induced by a magnetic potential gradient between planar coils and the magnet. However, this open loop system cannot realize precise motion control because of the characteristic deviation of each device, aging deterioration, and thermal behavior. This report describes motion monitoring of MEMS actuators with electromagnetic induction for precise motion control. The theory of motion sensing that we have constructed is shown to agree approximately with experimental results.
MEMS Wafer‐Level Packaging Technology Using LTCC Wafer
Authors: Mohri Mamoru , Esashi Masayoshi , Tanaka Shuji
Published: August 2014

This paper describes a versatile and reliable wafer‐level hermetic packaging technology using an anodically bondable low‐temperature co‐fired ceramic (LTCC) wafer, in which multilayer electrical feedthroughs can be embedded. The LTCC wafer allows many kinds of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) to be more flexibly designed and more easily packaged. The hermeticity of vacuum‐sealed cavities was confirmed after 3000 cycles of thermal shock (–40 30 min/+125 30 min) by the diaphragm method. To practically apply the LTCC wafer to a variety of MEMS, the electrical connection between the MEMS on a Si wafer and feedthroughs in the LTCC should be established by a simple and reliable method. We have developed a new electrical connection method: the electrical connection is established by porous Au bumps, which are part of the Au vias exposed in wet‐etched cavities on the LTCC wafer. A 100% yield of both electrical connection and hermetic sealing was demonstrated. A thermal shock test up to 3000 cycles confirmed the reliability of this packaging technology.
Qualitative and quantitative assessment of single fingerprints in forensic DNA analysis
Authors: Ostojic Lana , Klempner Stacey A. , Patel Rosni A. , Mitchell Adele A. , Axler‐DiPerte Grace L. , Wurmbach Elisa
Published: August 2014

Fingerprints and touched items are important sources of DNA for STR profiling, since this evidence can be recovered in a wide variety of criminal offenses. However, there are some fundamental difficulties in working with these samples, including variability in quantity and quality of extracted DNA. In this study, we collected and analyzed over 700 fingerprints. We compared a commercially available extraction protocol (Zygem) to two methods developed in our laboratory, a simple one‐tube protocol and a high sensitivity protocol (HighSens) that includes additional steps to concentrate and purify the DNA. The amplification protocols tested were AmpFLSTR® Identifiler® using either 28 or 31 amplification cycles, and Identifiler® Plus using 32 amplification cycles. We found that the HighSens and Zygem extraction methods were significantly better in their DNA yields than the one‐tube method. Identifiler® Plus increased the quality of the STR profiles for the one‐tube extraction significantly. However, this effect could not be verified for the other extraction methods. Furthermore, microscopic analysis of single fingerprints revealed that some individuals tended to shed more material than others onto glass slides. However, a dense deposition of skin flakes did not strongly correlate with a high quality STR profile.
Fipronil and imidacloprid reduce honeybee mitochondrial activity
Authors: Nicodemo Daniel , Maioli Marcos A. , Medeiros Hyllana C.D. , Guelfi Marieli , Balieira Kamila V.B. , De Jong David , Mingatto Fábio E.
Published: August 2014

Bees have a crucial role in pollination; therefore, it is important to determine the causes of their recent decline. Fipronil and imidacloprid are insecticides used worldwide to eliminate or control insect pests. Because they are broad-spectrum insecticides, they can also affect honeybees. Many researchers have studied the lethal and sublethal effects of these and other insecticides on honeybees, and some of these studies have demonstrated a correlation between the insecticides and colony collapse disorder in bees. The authors investigated the effects of fipronil and imidacloprid on the bioenergetic functioning of mitochondria isolated from the heads and thoraces of Africanized honeybees. Fipronil caused dose-dependent inhibition of adenosine 5′-diphosphate–stimulated (state 3) respiration in mitochondria energized by either pyruvate or succinate, albeit with different potentials, in thoracic mitochondria; inhibition was strongest when respiring with complex I substrate. Fipronil affected adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) production in a dose-dependent manner in both tissues and substrates, though with different sensitivities. Imidacloprid also affected state-3 respiration in both the thorax and head, being more potent in head pyruvate-energized mitochondria; it also inhibited ATP production. Fipronil and imidacloprid had no effect on mitochondrial state-4 respiration. The authors concluded that fipronil and imidacloprid are inhibitors of mitochondrial bioenergetics, resulting in depleted ATP. This action can explain the toxicity of these compounds to honeybees. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014; 33:2070–2075. © 2014 SETAC
Adapting brain metabolism to myelination and long‐range signal transduction
Authors: Hirrlinger Johannes , Nave Klaus‐Armin
Published: August 2014

In the mammalian brain, the subcortical white matter comprises long‐range axonal projections and their associated glial cells. Here, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes serve specific functions during development and throughout adult life, when they meet the metabolic needs of long fiber tracts. Within a short period of time, oligodendrocytes generate large amount of lipids, such as cholesterol, and membrane proteins for building the myelin sheaths. After myelination has been completed, a remaining function of glial metabolism is the energetic support of axonal transport and impulse propagation. Astrocytes can support axonal energy metabolism under low glucose conditions by the degradation of stored glycogen. Recently it has been recognized that the ability of glycolytic oligodendrocytes to deliver pyruvate and lactate is critical for axonal functionsin vivo. In this review, we discuss the specific demands of oligodendrocytes during myelination and potential routes of metabolites between glial cells and myelinated axons. As examples, four specific metabolites are highlighted (cholesterol, glycogen, lactate, andN‐acetyl‐aspartate) that contribute to the specific functions of white matter glia. Regulatory processes are discussed that could be involved in coordinating metabolic adaptations and in providing feedback information about metabolic states. © GLIA 2014;62:1749–1761
A new analytical expression for ultimate specific yield and shallow groundwater drainage
Authors: Cheng Dong‐hui , Wang Yu‐hong , Duan Ji‐bo , Chen Xunhong , Yang Sheng‐ke
Published: August 2014

The ultimate specific yield, i.e. the specific yield under steady‐state condition, is generally dependent on the water table depth in the shallow groundwater systems. This paper presents a new expression to describe this relationship. The expression is based on the relationship between soil water content–soil depths below ground surface near the saturation zone, i.e. water content profile, which can be fitted by the van Genuchten model. Because this model is highly nonlinear, a Taylor series expansion was used to solve the integral equation for specific yield in our study. The new expression was verified by a drainage experiment, and the results demonstrated that the new expression is reliable for eolian sand when the range of water table fluctuation is less than 30 cm. The expression is easily applicable because knowledge of the water content profile near the saturation zone is the only requirement. Compared with the expression obtained from the Brooks–Corey model, the new expression can be used for a variety of aquifer and soil media. The improved accuracy of the specific yield provides a better estimate of discharge rates in shallow groundwater systems with water table fluctuations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
5‐Fluorouracil causes leukocytes attraction in the peritoneal cavity by activating autophagy and HMGB1 release in colon carcinoma cells
Authors: Cottone Lucia , Capobianco Annalisa , Gualteroni Chiara , Perrotta Cristiana , Bianchi Marco E. , Rovere‐Querini Patrizia , Manfredi Angelo A.
Published: August 2014

Signals released by leukocytes contribute to tumor growth and influence the efficacy of antineoplastic treatments. The outcome of peritoneal carcinomatosis treatments is unsatisfactory, possibly because chemotherapy activates events that have in the long‐term deleterious effects. In this study we offer evidence that 5‐fluorouracile (5‐FU), besides provoking apoptosis of MC38 colon carcinoma cells, induces a striking attraction of leukocytes both in an orthotopic model of colon carcinomatosis in vivo and in monocyte‐migration assays in vitro. Leukocyte attraction depends on the presence of High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1), an endogenous immune adjuvant and chemoattractant released by dying cells. Leukocyte recruitment is prevented in vivo and in vitro using blocking antibodies against HMGB1 and its competitive antagonist BoxA or by interfering with HMGB1 expression. Autophagy is required for leukocyte chemoattraction, since the latter abates upon pharmacological blockade of the autophagic flux while activation of autophagy per se, in the absence of death of colon carcinoma cells, is not sufficient to attract leukocytes. Our results identify autophagy induction and HMGB1 release in colon carcinoma cells as key events responsible for 5‐FU elicited leukocyte attraction and define a novel rate‐limiting target for combinatorial therapies.
THE CONTRIBUTION OF COMMUNALITY ESTIMATION TO THE ACHIEVEMENT OF FACTORIAL INVARIANCE, WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE MMPI
Authors: Saunders D. R.
Published: August 2014

One purpose of communality estimation in factor analysis is to promote factorial invariance, i.e., to improve the chances of recovering demonstrably related factor structures from diverse sets of variables and samples of subjects. Recognition of this purpose may help to resolve ambiguities that have appeared in efforts to define unique communalities for isolated correlation matrices. The estimation of even approximate values for communality may be well worth the effort as a contribution to factorial invariance.

A convenient, programable procedure is described that leads simultaneously to useful estimates of communality and of the number of factors. On the basis of actual data for two samples, properties of the communalities obtained by this procedure are compared with those obtained from a conventional principal axis analysis using diagonal entries of unity.

The clinical scales of the MMPI, plus Si, are judged to provide reliable measurement on at least eight orthogonal dimensions, each well‐marked by a different scale. Stable differences exist in the item‐reliabilities of the ten scales studied. Neither of these consistencies in the data for the two samples was available from application of the conventional analysis.

Tucker's procedure for examining factor congruence is found to be capable of yielding misleading results in the context of poor communality estimates.
A NOTE ON THE STANDARD LENGTH OF A TEST
Authors: Myers Charles T.
Published: August 2014

The “standard length” of a test is shown to be

urn:x-wiley:04246144:ets200104:equation:ets200104-math-0001

where N = the number of typical items that would have a test reliability of .50,

ū = the average “error” variance in the test items,

c = the average inter‐item covariance which is also considered to be equal to the “true” variance of the items, and

v = the average item variance.

Various methods of computing the necessary data from the item‐analysis coefficients are shown.
ANALYTIC ROTATION TO A FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP1
Authors: Cliff Norman
Published: August 2014

It is suggested that a number of theoretical models for non‐test data can be tested by factor analysis. A traditional method for transforming principal axis factor solutions is suggested as an aid in making such tests and a modification of this method suggested. Means of using all the information in a model for the purpose of determining the transformation of the arbitrary factor solution are presented, and an illustrative example is given.
RESPONSE STYLES ON THE MMPI: COMPARISON OF CLINICAL AND NORMAL SAMPLES1
Authors: Jackson Douglas N. , Messick Samuel
Published: August 2014

In an effort to appraise the degree to which response consistencies on the MMPI are attributable in widely differing populations to the general stylistic dimensions of acquiescence and desirability on the one hand, and to particular content consistencies on the other, two studies on two diverse samples were performed. By applying factor analysis to correlations among MMPI clinical and validity scales scored separately for “true” and “false” items, along with five specially constructed reference scales, to measure tendencies to endorse items at varying levels of desirability, relatively precise estimates of the proportion of variance attributable to response style and to content were obtained. The two samples employed–hospitalized neuropsychiatric patients and college students–yielded results consistent with those obtained from a previous study of prison inmates, in that the dominant role of acquiescence and desirability response styles was. emphasized. In all three samples two very large factors appeared, identifiable as acquiescence and desirability. On the average, approximately three‐quarters of the common variance and over half of the total variance was attributable to the two stylistic dimensions, involving in the hospital sample a somewhat larger and in the college sample a somewhat smaller proportion of the variance as compared with the previous prison sample. All MMPI sub‐scales employed in these three analyses elicited substantial response style effects. Furthermore, in each of the three analyses the factor loadings of the scales on the acquiescence and desirability dimensions arrayed the scale vectors in a circular pattern, suggesting that acquiescence is differentially elicited by items at varying levels of desirability.

In addition, several quite small factors were obtained in each of the analyses, some attributed to item overlap and some to consistent content responses. Four factors in the hospital sample and three in the college sample were identified tentatively in terms of item content. Three factors more or less common to the two groups were interpreted respectively as: (1) endorsement of items reflecting anxiety symptoms; (2) naive test‐taking defensiveness; and (3) social brashness and impulsivity. One factor, appearing only in the hospital sample, was identified as reflecting somatic complaints.

The massive response style effects on the MMPI, while contributing to convergent validity in grossly separating normals from mental patients, are interpreted as reducing the possibilities for discriminant validity, as in the differential diagnosis of psychopathological syndromes. Where the latter is important, experimental controls aimed at sharply reducing response biases are recommended.
A STUDY OF LARGE SCORE CHANGES ON THE SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TEST
Authors: Jacobs Paul I.
Published: August 2014

Candidates who take the SAT more than once seldom receive exactly the same scores each time. This study was concerned with reasons for “large” score changes from a candidate's junior to senior years. A large score change was defined as an increase of 125 or more points or a decrease of 75 or more points in either SAT‐V or SAT‐M.

Sixty candidates showing large score changes on the SAT were asked about these changes in interviews. From their responses, the candidates were placed in six categories. The three largest of these were (a) the candidates who explained their score change in terms of relatively specific subject matter preparation, e.g., “I didn't take math as a senior,” (b) those who explained their score changes in terms of “organismic” variables, e.g., health or motivation, and (c) those who could offer no explanation for their changes. Total test scores, in conjunction with the interview data, allowed for some consistency checks on the information provided by the candidates.

A further analysis was made of the popularity of the correct and of the incorrect alternatives each candidate chose and the number of items omitted. These measures, which were related to total test score, yielded an additional check on the interview information provided by the candidates and also suggested a mechanism behind some of the increases in SAT‐V. The results were in agreement with Davis and Fifer's finding that the particular wrong alternatives a candidate chooses may provide useful information.
PROBABILITY LEARNING: LEFT‐RIGHT VARIABLES AND RESPONSE LATENCY123
Authors: Gerjuoy Irma R. , Gerjuoy Herbert , Mathias Richard
Published: August 2014

This study was concerned with whether percent‐choice data in probability learning may include subclasses with different choice proportions. Percent choice of the positive alternative was significantly greater, even at asymptote, when the positive alternative was on the right. Choice latency was also recorded; there was a significant tendency to respond more rapidly when an asymmetrically located reinforcement signal was on the right or when it was on the side opposite the positive alternative. The percent‐choice data did not show corresponding significant effects. These findings suggest that percent‐choice measures may pool a variety of different ways of responding that are differentially affected by experimental variables.
SOME GENERALIZATIONS OF A THEORETICAL DISTRIBUTION OF MENTAL TEST SCORES
Authors: Keats John A.
Published: August 2014

The negative hypergeometric distribution may be generalized to provide distributions involving 3, 4 or more parameters. It is shown that, in the case of the binomial error model, such distributions correspond to quadratic, cubic, etc., regressions of true scores on raw scores. Explicit formulas are given for the bivariate moments required to fit these regressions and so estimate the parameters of the generalized hypergeometric distribution. Equations are also developed for fitting the 3 and 4 parameter distributions directly, i.e, without reference to the model, and the method for generalizing these is indicated. The methods developed are applied to objective test data with satisfactory results.
AESTHETIC PREFERENCE FOR ABSTRACT DESIGNS AS A FUNCTION OF THEIR PERCEIVED COMPLEXITY
Authors: Fritzky Ferdinand J.
Published: August 2014

This investigation focussed on two basic questions:

What relationship exists between aesthetic preference and the perceived complexity of a set of abstract designs?

To what extent do subjects agree or disagree with regard to the judgments in question?

In light of some of the methodological ambiguities which were evident in reviewing earlier studies directed at similar problems, a new approach seemed to be called for. Accordingly, a shift in emphasis from the art objects to the individual observers was made, and a new set of stimulus materials was constructed especially to suit the purposes of the study. Whereas in earlier experiments the subject's aesthetic preferences were related to some external measure of complexity, the method here was to obtain both judgments from each subject.

Since it is possible to collect the appropriate data via a wide variety of procedures, it was also of interest to know what differences might obtain between the two experimental methods which are most frequently used for relative judgments. Two separate experiments, one using a paired comparison design and the other using a rank order design, were carried out where the main bodies of results consisted of rank‐difference correlations between the orders of aesthetic preference and perceived complexity.

The distribution of correlations which emerged strongly supported the hypothesis that people can be classified basically into either of two groups, one which prefers complexity and one which dislikes complexity. This held true for both experimental procedures. In the paired comparison experiment, the correlations between aesthetic preferences and complexity judgments were between +.39 and +.94 for 23 subjects, and between ‐.44 and ‐.92 for 19 subjects. In the rank order experiment, the positive correlations ranged from +.26 to +.85 for 23 subjects, and the negative correlations were from ‐.29 to ‐.94 for 21 subjects.

The discussion centered upon two major issues: (a) the role of complexity as a general variable in aesthetic theory; (b) a consideration of how the individual differences which emerged in this study might be interpreted within the general context of perception, personality, and aesthetics. In addition, a number of suggestions were made regarding future research studies.
GROUP DECISION‐MAKING UNDER RISK OF AVERSIVE CONSEQUENCES1
Authors: Bem Daryl J. , Wallach Michael A. , Kogan Nathan
Published: August 2014

With the emphasis placed upon possible aversive consequences of risk taking (actual physical pain coupled with monetary loss), group consensus achieved through discussion was displaced in the risky direction relative to the average of the group members' prior individual decisions. Subsequent private decisions also exhibited this shift toward greater risk taking. These results were explained in terms of a process of responsibility diffusion. This interpretation was further reinforced by the findings observed for other experimental conditions, which effectively ruled out the alternative possibilities that greater risk taking ensued from its social desirability in a male sample or derived from affillative propensities in a context where group members expect to experience aversive consequences in the company of like‐minded others.
COLLEGES' USE AND EVALUATION OF THE CEEB WRITING SAMPLE1
Authors: Ekstrom Ruth B.
Published: August 2014

A sample of 23 colleges that have required the CEEB Writing Sample was visited. Of the 20 colleges using the Writing Sample for admissions, 11 read for a general impression and 9 assigned grades. The qualities looked for most often were: (1) organization, (2) indication of ability to think, (3) spelling, and (4) grammar. In responding to a check list, clarity of expression, organization, correct grammar, logic of reasoning, and evidence of mature thought were selected as most important. Experimental studies carried out by some of the colleges showed that the Writing Sample had low reliability and validity as an admissions criteria. Colleges using the Writing Sample for placement in English courses usually use it for selecting advanced students or for selecting students needing remedial work in composition. If a centrally graded theme were to be offered as a part of the ECT, the Writing Sample could probably be abandoned without too much discontent among CEEB member colleges. Neither the enthusiasm for nor the effectiveness of the Writing Sample is very great.
FACULTY PERCEPTIONS OF STUDENTS
Authors: Davis Junius A.
Published: August 2014

A previous study in this series was devoted to the definition, using the diagonal method of factoring, of student desirability separate and apart from academic performance. Variables employed consisted of ratings of students by faculty on 80 traits, as well as high school and college grade averages and SAT scores.

In the present study, the same data and similar methods were employed to determine the nature of desirability separate and apart from the rater's perception of the student's academic performance (rather than his actual performance).

The results tend to show an absorption in the faculty perception of performance of much of the variance previously associated with dependability, intellectual ability and values, motivation, self‐sufficiency/creativity, and maturity in defining desirability apart from academic performance. The results tend, however, to verify or accentuate the contribution of other traits, notably ethicality, likableness, open‐mindedness, and altruism. It does appear that desirability is highly related to perception of academic performance, and that other areas normally expected to make an honest contribution to performance (e.g., dependability, intellectual ability and values, motivation, and self‐sufficiency/creativity) are perceived by the faculty to do so. Finally, there is remaining reliable variance in SAT and actual grades, as well as in such previously established areas as conformity and extraversion, which is related neither to perception of performance nor desirability.
RIGOROUSLY AND NONRIGOROUSLY PARALLEL TEST FORMS*
Authors: Lord Frederic M.
Published: August 2014

When several test forms are used interchangeably, they will not in practice, despite all efforts, be rigorously parallel. A definition of the standard error of measurement appropriate for this type of situation can be provided; however, it must be different from the definition in classical test theory. Appropriate formulas for the standard error of measurement and for other related quantities under both definitions are derived and compared; also sample statistics for estimating these quantities.
THREE EXPRESSIONS OF THE NEED FOR VARIETY1
Authors: Maddi Salvatore R. , Propst Barbara Scott , Feldinger Irwin
Published: August 2014

This study aimed to measure three rationally distinct forms of the need for variety as expressed in thematic apperception, and to obtain the relatic ships among them and between each of them and other variables with which the should or should not be correlated. Sixty‐two male subjects were tested fox all variables. The relationships among the three fantasy measures–novelty of productions, curiosity, and desire for novelty–were consistent with assuming that they represent different forms of the need for variety. In addition, novelty of productions correlated positively with complexity and internal exploration, and negatively with external exploration. Curiosity correlated positively with external exploration and n achievement, and negatively with nonverbal productivity. Evidence for discriminant validity was also obtained.
CATEGORY WIDTH MD QUANTITATIVE APTITUDE1
Authors: Messick Samuel , Kogan Nathan
Published: August 2014

In an effort to clarify the reported correlation between breadth of categorization and quantitative aptitude, the Pettigrew category‐width task was administered along with three specially‐constructed quantitative aptitude tests—one having a multiple‐choice format with widely‐spaced alternatives, one a multiple‐choice format with narrowly‐spaced alternatives, and one a free‐response format. Preference for broad category widths was only marginally related to the free‐response quantitative test, but was substantially related to the form with widely‐spaced alternatives. The negligible correlation between category‐width preferences and the narrowly‐spaced quantitative form suggests that the narrow spacing penalizes the broad categorizer by disrupting the “approximation” strategy he may tend to employ on a multiple‐choice quantitative test.
SOME STRUCTURED SELF‐REPORT CORRELATES OF FANTASY MEASURES OF THE NEED FOR VARIETY1
Authors: Maddi Salvatore R. , Andrews Susan L. , Honey Richard D.
Published: August 2014

This study investigated further the possibility that the tendencies to produce novelty, have curiosity, and desire novelty are three distinct forms of the need for variety. Fantasy (thematic apperception) measures of these tendencies were obtained, along with some variables measured by the structured self‐report method, on 87 male subjects. The fantasy measures showed considerable independence of each other. The correlations between fantasy and self‐report measures confirmed expectation by suggesting that people high in novelty of productions or curiosity are similar in valuing and striving for variety, and in having high characteristic levels of activation. Contrary to expectations, the fantasy measure of desire for novelty did not share this similarity. This one of the three fantasy measures also showed the lowest internal consistency.
ON BAYESIAN LOGICAL PROBABILITY
Authors: Novick Melvin R.
Published: August 2014

In a recent paper (Edwards, Lindman, and Savage, 1963), psychologists have been urged to adopt a Bayesian personal probability approach to statistical inference. The purpose of this paper is to suggest that a Bayesian logical probability approach may be superior to the personal probability approach. The concepts of frequency, personal and logical probability are defined and the characteristics and advantages of Bayesian approaches are discussed. It is shown that a theory of personal probability is dependent upon utility or preference theory. The problem of Bayes postulate is described and it is shown that an explication of the concept of logical probability is dependent upon the solution of this problem. Some work of Novick and Hall directed toward the solution of this problem is discussed. Finally, an attempt is made to integrate the concepts of personal and frequency probability within the framework of the theory of logical probability.
ASSOCIATION TEST ANTONYM‐RESPONSE SET1
Authors: Wynne Ronald D. , Gerjuoy Herbert , Schiffman Harold
Published: August 2014

Normal Ss were given 54 Kent‐Rosanoff‐list words in one of three different orders, with one of two different instructions, and with one of two different test formats. Instructions to give the responses that most people give increased nonantonym‐popular response frequencies, particularly when a multiple‐choice format was used instead of an open‐ended format. When words that frequently elicit antonyms were presented early or were rectangularly distributed through the list, more popular‐antonym responses were elicited than when such words were generally late in the list. It was suggested that antonym set reduces conceptual effort.