cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Workforce preparation and ABET assessment

Accreditation is a means of evaluating and improving curriculum. ABET accreditation requires that IS programs assess whether students attain the programs' educational objectives after they graduate. One way to assess these objectives is to ask alumni how important these objectives were in their job success and how well their education prepared them for these objectives. In October 2009, a web survey was sent to recent IS graduates to ask them to rate how well they felt the IS program prepared them for their first and subsequent jobs. This paper analyzes the results and sees how the objectives align with the skills that these graduates felt they needed on their job. Graduates felt well prepared for implementing software and database solutions as well as technical presentation. The largest gaps in preparation were in management of projects, analysis of technical solutions, non-technical writing. The research serves two purposes: 1) to model a process for other IS programs seeking ABET accreditation; and 2) to provide evidence as to whether these objectives are perceived as providing an adequate base for preparing an IS workforce.
From somatostatin to octreotide LAR: evolution of a somatostatin analogue.

Acromegaly is characterized by overproduction of growth hormone (GH) by the pituitary gland. GH stimulates the synthesis of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), and the somatic growth and metaboli...
Ontogeny of sorbitol dehydrogenases in Drosophila melanogaster.

It has been shown that crude extracts of Drosophila melanogaster adults contain three distinctly different enzymes which catalyze the oxidation of d-sorbitol into d-fructose. These include (1) a soluble NAD-dependent sorbitol dehydrogenase (NAD-SoDHs), (2) a mitochondrial NAD-dependent sorbitol dehydrogenase (NAD-SoDHm), and (3) a soluble NADP-dependent sorbitol dehydrogenase (NADP-SoDH). Developmental studies have shown that the activities of all three of these enzymes are lowest during the larval stages while highest levels are seen during or shortly prior to the adult period. With respect to NAD-SoDHs, studies of tissue distribution in adults have shown that highest activity is associated with thoracic musculature in both sexes and with organs of the male reproductive system. The developmental profile of this enzyme reveals a significant increase in activity at between 40 and 60 hr after hatching. This time interval corresponds closely to that during which the paternally derived NAD-SoDHs gene is expressed. An additional increase in activity is seen in male pupae at 160 hr and in female adults at 210 hr. The rapid increase in males takes place immediately following the developmental period during which the testes attach to their respective duct systems. NADP-SoDH activity is concentrated among organs of the thorax and abdomen in both sexes. Males show significantly higher levels of this enzyme during the late pupal and early adult periods. In contrast to the patterns of distribution seen for NAD-SoDHs and NADP-SoDH, 91–92% of the total NAD-SoDHm activity in adults is localized to the thoracic musculature. The developmental profile of this enzyme reveals a significant increase in activity during the late pupal and early adult periods, when flight muscle mitochondria are known to be proliferating and undergoing structural maturation.
Is the Higgs Boson Associated with Coleman-Weinberg Dynamical Symmetry Breaking?

The Higgs mechanism may be a quantum phenomenon, i.e., a Coleman-Weinberg potential generated by the explicit breaking of scale symmetry in Feynman loops. We review the relationship of scale symmetry and trace anomalies, and we show that the Coleman-Weinberg potential can be defined as the solution to a differential renormalization group equation that follows from the trace of the improved stress tensor. We propose a simple phenomenological model with ``maximal visibility'' at the LHC containing a ``dormant'' Higgs doublet [no VEV, coupled to standard model gauge interactions $SU(2)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}U(1)$] with a mass of $\ensuremath{\sim}380\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{GeV}$. We discuss the LHC phenomenology and UV challenges of such a model. We also give a schematic model in which new heavy fermions, with masses $\ensuremath{\sim}230\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{GeV}$, can drive a Coleman-Weinberg potential at two loops. The role of the ``improved stress tensor'' is emphasized, and we propose a nongravitational term, analogous to the $\ensuremath{\theta}$ term in QCD, which generates it from a scalar action.
Performance of Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems at the National Bureau of Standards—Measurements and Predictions

The thermal performance of six solar domestic hot water systems and a conventional hot water system have been carefully monitored by the National Bureau of Standards in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The system configurations include an evacuated-tube air system with a crossflow heat exchanger and two storage tanks, a single-tank direct system, a double-tank direct system, a single-tank indirect system with a wrap-around heat exchanger, a double-tank indirect system with a coil-intank heat exchanger, and a thermosyphon system. Results are presented for a one year time interval commencing January 1980. This paper includes a detailed description of the hot-water systems, experimental test results, and comparisons with computer predictions using the f-chart method.
From passive to active about solar electricity: innovation decision process and photovoltaic interest generation

Abstract Electric utility managers are accustomed to technology choices, both in day-to-day load dispatching decisions and in the selection of new innovations to support utility operations. Conventional innovation management decision models may no longer apply in a confusing world of resource scarcity and industry deregulation. This research addresses the implications of a likely scenario: utilities will inevitably shift to a renewable base for electricity generation. How will managers become interested in solar energy? Does the conventional adoption decision model provide a solid foundation for understanding the factors that influence their interest? This study suggests not. Building on a national survey of utility managers in the US, a path analysis demonstrates the inadequacy of technical knowledge as a sufficient precursor to adoption interest. Three additional variables—motivation, experience, and familiarity—are offered as critical influences of interest in photovoltaics, the most ready innovation in the spectrum of renewable technologies. These findings have significant implications for commercialization efforts, as well as for management of utility operations. Through small wins, experimentation, and groping along, solar power can be diffused far more effectively and with far greater ultimate success than is expected through the conventional wisdom of large-scale research and development.
Somatic transgenesis in the avian model system

The chick embryo is a versatile model system, in which classical embryology can be combined with modern molecular approaches. In the last two decades, several efficient methods have been developed to introduce exogenous genes into the chick embryo. These techniques allow alteration of gene expression levels in a spatially and temporally restricted manner, thereby circumventing embryonic lethality and/or eliminating secondary effects in other tissues. Here, we present the current status of avian somatic transgenic techniques, focusing on electroporation and retrovirus-mediated gene transfer. Electroporation allows quick and efficient gain-of-function studies based on transient misexpression of genes. Retroviral vectors, which are capable of integrating exogenous genes into the host chromosome, permit analysis of long-term effects of gene misexpression. The variety of methods available for somatic transgenesis, along with the recent completion of the chicken genome, are transforming the chick embryo into one of the most attractive model systems to examine function of genes that are important for embryonic development.
Thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy and encephalopathy in a paraplegic man.

Case report. Thyrotoxicosis complicating spinal cord injury is more common than generally appreciated. To raise the level of awareness, the following case of fatal thyrotoxicosis is presented. A 77-year-old man, paralyzed at the T12 level for 46 years, developed a sudden 42 lb weight loss, dyspnea, interscapular pain, 120/40 mm Hg blood pressure, a nodular thyroid gland, atrial fibrillation, progressive cardiac enlargement, left ventricular ejection fraction diminishing from 30 to 10% and a persistently low level of thyrotropic hormone, 0.05–0.2 μU ml−1 (normal 0.35–5.5 μU ml−1). As coronary artery bypass grafting had been carried out 6 years earlier and other signs of thyrotoxicosis—exophthalmos, lid lag, sweating, tremor and diarrhea—were absent, recurrent arteriosclerotic heart disease was assumed and a trial of thyroid suppression not attempted. He eventually developed depression and memory loss and died in heart failure after a 4-year course of this illness. This case probably represented a toxic multinodular goiter in an elderly paraplegic man with potentially treatable cardiovascular and nervous system complications.
Serum protein depletion by cultured rat embryos

Cultures of 10-day rat embryos depleted a protein band with a molecular weight of approximately 125,000 from the rat serum medium. Delayed centrifuged serum differed from immediately centrifuged serum by a reduction in the staining intensity of the 125,000 molecular weight protein band and by the absence of two high molecular weight (>200,000) protein bands.
Prostanoids of nematodes: Prostaglandins and thromboxane b2 from Trichostrongylus Colubriformis and Turbatrix Aceti

Abstract 1. Prostaglandins A 2 , E 1 , E 2 , 6-keto-F 1α , F 2α and thromboxane B 2 were found in extracts prepared from the parasitic nematode Trichostrongylus colubriformis . 2. These same prostanoids plus prostaglandins B 2 and D 2 were found in extracts from the free-living nematode Turbatrix aceti . 3. Though prostaglandins B 2 , D 2 , 6-keto-F 1α and F 2α occurred in all extracts from T. aceti , and 6-keto-F 1α and f 1α were in all extracts from T. colubriformis , the other prostanoids were absent from some extracts and there were great variations between extracts in the amounts of given prostanoids recovered. 4. This constitutes the first fully-documented report of prostanoids from nematodes.
Studies on the mode of action of vitamin D—XIV. Quantitative assessment of the structural requirements for the interaction of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 with its chick intestinal mucosa receptor system

Abstract The structural requirements for the interaction of the 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 [1α,25(OH) 2 D 3 ] molecule with its chick intestinal mucosa receptor system have been quantitatively evaluated. This analysis was carried out using structural analogs of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 in a competitive binding assay with a reconstituted chromatin-cytosol system from rachitic chick intestinal mucosa. In this assay the steroid-cytosol receptor complex binds avidly to the chromatin. The results for the melabolites and analogs were expressed on a linear scale of relative competitive index (RCI) where the RCI of 1α,25(OH) 2 D 3 is defined as 100. These studies demonstrated that the 1α-and 25-hydroxyl functions were the most critical groups to the binding process: their absence reduced the RCI to 0.5 and 0.4 respectively. The 3β-hydroxyl, although important, is somewhat less critical since the RCI was reduced to only 5.7. When all three of these hydroxyls are present, the receptor will tolerate alterations in the side chain at carbon-24. Thus shortening the side chain of 1α,25(OH) 2 D 3 by only one methylene group reduced the RCI to 46. When the 25-hydroxylated side chain is present, modification of the A-ring at C-1, C-3, C-4, C-10 and C-19 all markedly reduce the RCI. Competitors with both A-ring and side chain modifications were found to have almost no ability to interact with the receptor system. Collectively these results support the view that the intestinal cytosol-chromatin receptor system has a very high degree of specificity for its hormonal ligand which reflect bonding-interactions at multiple (carbons 1, 3, 4, 10, 19, 24, and 25) sites on the 1α.25(OH) 2 D 3 molecule. A model is presented for this interaction which emphasizes the key role of a standard length side chain with a 25-OH functional group.
Reconstruction of dendritic growth cones in neonatal mouse olfactory bulb.

An improved and simplified method of serial sectioning for electron microscopy was used to prepare material from which were reconstructed dendritic growth cones of mitral cells in neonatal mouse olfactory glomerulus. Growth cones are characterized by: (1) one or more filopodia, each approximately 0.2 μm in diameter, projecting from an expanded dendritic terminal or pre-terminal region; (2) a polygonal array of microfilaments approximately 50 A in diameter, filling the enlarged terminal and filopodia; (3) an absence of microtubules and a paucity of mitochondria; (4) a few profiles of smooth endoplasmic reticulum or vesicles; (5) occasional axodendritic synapses. These characteristics are compared with those of other growing processes in the nervous system and a consistent picture of the appearance of growing neuronal processes obtained, suitable to use as a guide in a search for additional growing processes in developing and mature brains.
Viability and Use of Sperm after Irradiation of the Large Milkweed Bug

The effects of 10-75 krad of gamma irradiation on sperm viability and usage in Oncopeltus fasciatus (Dallas) were studied by observations on sperm quantity and activity, fertilization levels, and hatch of eggs from females mated to both irradiated and nonirradiated males. Sperm treated in the male and then transferred to the female appeared most affected by irradiation. Rapid loss of motility and disappearance from female's spermathecae occurred when sperm were treated with the higher doses of radiation, but at doses near the sterilizing level sperm quantity and activity were near the control level for some time after transfer of the treated sperm during mating. Even at lower doses, however, fertilization levels fell off more rapidly than in the controls. This drop in fertilization levels was greatly accelerated when the females with treated sperm were remated to castrated males. The most sensitive indicator of nongenetic damage to sperm was the effect on displacement with repeated mating. Irradiated sperm received from a 1st mating were largely displaced by a 2nd mating to an untreated male. Less sperm displacement occurred in the reverse mating sequence.
Selective association of crystallins with lens 'native' membrane during dynamic cataractogenesis.

Plasma membrane with its associated extrinsic proteins was isolated from normal and cataractous rat lenses by centrlfugation of the total water insoluble fraction from homogenized lenses on a discontinuous sucrose gradient. Membrane, which we call “native” membrane, was recovered mainly from the 25/45% sucrose interface. Development of the experimental U18666A cataract resulted in plasma membrane shifting to higher density (the 50/55% sucrose fraction) and great increases in the urea soluble protein content of the lens. At early stages of cataract development, most of the increased urea soluble protein was membrane associated, presumably as extrinsic protein. With advancing cataract, most of the urea soluble protein appeared in an essentially membrane-free pellet fraction. The urea soluble protein associated with the cataract membrane was shown by combined IEF, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, amino acid compositional analysis and protein sequence determinations to be mainly composed of modified alpha- and bet...
Utility Representation of an Incomplete Preference Relation

Abstract We consider the problem of representing a (possibly) incomplete preference relation by means of a vector-valued utility function. Continuous and semicontinuous representation results are reported in the case of preference relations that are, in a sense, not “too incomplete.” These results generalize some of the classical utility representation theorems of the theory of individual choice and paves the way towards developing a consumer theory that realistically allows individuals to exhibit some “indecisiveness” on occasion. Journal of Economic Literature Classification Number: D11.
The Dirac oscillator and local automorphism invariance

The Dirac oscillator is a relativistic generalization of the quantum harmonic oscillator. In particular, the square of the Hamiltonian for the Dirac oscillator yields the Klein–Gordon equation with a potential of the form (ar 2+bL⋅S), where a and b are constants. To obtain the Dirac oscillator, a ‘‘minimal substitution’’ is made in the Dirac equation, where the ordinary derivative is replaced with a covariant derivative. However, a very unusual feature of the covariant derivative in this case is that the potential is a nontrivial element of the Clifford algebra. A theory which naturally gives rise to gauge potentials which are nontrivial elements of the Clifford algebra is that based on local automorphism invariance. An exact solution of the pure automorphism gauge field equations which reproduces both the potential term and the mass term of the Dirac oscillator is presented herein.
Genetic stability of attenuated mengovirus vectors with duplicate primary cleavage sequences

Abstract Short poly(C)-tract Mengoviruses have proven vaccine efficacy in many species of animals. A novel vector for the delivery of foreign proteins was created by insertion of a second autoproteolytic primary cleavage cassette linked to a multiple cloning site (MCS) into an attenuated variant of Mengo. Nineteen cDNAs from foreign sequences that ranged from 39 to 1653 bases were cloned into the MCS. The viral reading frame was maintained and translation resulted in dual, autocatalytic excision of the foreign peptides without disruption of any Mengo proteins. All cDNAs except those with the largest insertions produced viable virus. Active proteins such as GFP, CAT, and SIV p27 were expressed within infected cells. Relative to parental Mengo, the growth kinetics and genetic stability of each vector was inversely proportional to the size of the inserted sequence. While segments up to 1000 bases could be carried, inserts greater than 500–600 bases were usually reduced in size during serial passage. The limit on carrying capacity was probably due to difficulties in virion assembly or particle stability. Yet for inserts less than 500–600 bases, the Mengo vectors provided an effective system for the delivery of foreign epitopes into cells and mice.
Reverberate, Resonate, Reproduce: A Reconsideration of Ideological Influence in Crime News Production

For decades, scholars have increasingly been concerned with media representations of crime. Content analyses have chronicled pervasive distortions in media representations of crime. Many have argued these issues are particularly troubling in the news, as it supposedly provides an invaluable democratic service, spurring many theories of crime news production. Classic works often conceptualized crime news as either a product of dominant ideologies and top–down power, or journalistic routines and values, coupled with reflexive agency by journalists. More recently scholars have argued for hybrid perspectives. However, such hybridized approaches often brusquely treat the role of ideology in crime news. This article rethinks the role of ideology in crime news production, particularly the ways in which various ideologies interact and mutually strengthen each other.
Bridge over troubled waters? Connecting research and pedagogy in composition and business/technical communication

Although different writing courses exist because of the different forms and purposes of writing they teach, some continuity between composition and business/technical communication would allow students to move more readily from one course to the next, while clarifying for them that writing is primarily a system of options based on analyses of situations, readers, obstacles, and goals. In this article, I call for that kind of continuity not only in pedagogy but also in research. Explaining the value of connections in pedagogy and research between composition and professional communication studies, I conclude with various questions and avenues for further research.
Plasmodium falciparum takes up iron from transferrin.

SUMMARY Plasmodium falciparum, cultured in vitro, is inhibited by desferrioxamine, a specific iron chelating agent, despite the abundant haem iron which surrounds the parasite. In this report we show that the intraerythrocytic parasite obtains iron from transferrin. The parasite may therefore be freed of a requirement to catabolize haem to obtain iron thus minimizing haem toxicity.
Apoptosis is critical for drug response in vivo

oes tumor cell resistance to apoptosis affect the outcome of chemotherapy? This key question highlights a central controversy in the field: does apoptosis contribute to drug-induced cell death or, in turn, can mutations in apoptotic programs compromise treatment outcome in patients? If apoptosis is important, then our understanding of apoptotic genes immediately suggests strategies to improve treatment decisions or to develop more effective anticancer agents.However, testing the ‘apoptosis concept’ is not trivial,and the answer may be influenced by one’s choice of the experimental system. But what is the best choice? Clinical studies suffer from too many variables, cell culture systems may be too artificial, and xenografts rely on tumor cell lines. In this regard, we appreciate the comments of Borst et al. (‘Does tumor cell resistance to apoptosis affect the outcome of chemotherapy?’) in this Journal concerning our recent work to address these issues, and encourage a similarly critical evaluation of all experimental systems used to study treatment sensitivity. Only when we determine how best to study drug action will we be able to develop effective strategies to counter drug resistance.
A Comparison of Terminally Ill Persons at Various Time Periods to Death

A cross-sectional comparison was made of the responses of 1,110 terminally ill persons with cancer at varying time periods prior to death. In addition, a longitudinal analysis on a subgroup of this sample was conducted for self-reported mood changes and social interaction changes as death approached. Two theories, Disengagement and Objective Self-Awareness, which suggest that people nearing death would increase in their desire to separate from others, were not supported. In general, there were few differences in the responses of persons further from, or closer to, death. The mention of religion as a source of support was less common among persons closer to death. Finally, awareness of one's demise had an effect only on one's responses regarding the role of other people in the life of the terminally ill person.
Fast algorithms for testing unsatisfiability of ground horn clauses with equations

This paper presents two fast algorithms for testing the unsatisfiability of a set of ground Horn clauses with or without equational atomic formulae. If the length of the set H of Horn clauses (viewed as the string obtained by concatenating the clauses in H) is n, it is possible to design an algorithm running in time O(n log(n)). These algorithms are obtained by generalising the concept of congruence closure to ground Horn clauses. The basic idea behind these algorithms is that the congruence closure induced by a set of ground Horn clauses can be obtained by interleaving steps in which an equational congruence closure is computed, and steps in which an implicational type of closure is computed.
Model for the energetics of Si and Ge (111) surfaces

The reconstructions observed on the annealed (111) surfaces of Si and Ge can be explained on the basis of a simple model of the surface energetics. The driving force for the Si 7\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}7 reconstruction is the formation of dimer-row domain walls, which order in a triangular pattern for topological reasons. Adatoms play an incidental role only. Chemical or strain-induced variations in the parameters of the model can lead to transitions between energetically competitive 7\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}7, 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}5, $c2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}8$, and other structures.
Description of an acylpeptide hydrolase from lens.

Acylpeptide hydrolase, which catalyses the hydrolysis of blocked N-terminal amino acids from peptide substrates, has been identified in the extracts from beef, human, rabbit and rat lens. In bovine lens sections, lower activity was observed in nuclear and inner cortical regions compared to the outer cortical region. The enzyme from bovine lens showed a high molecular weight nature, eluting between α and β crystallins during Sephadex G-200 chromatography. The activity has a pH optimum around 7·8 when assayed with N-acetyl-Ala-p-NA as substrate. The enzyme was capable of hydrolyzing a variety of blocked peptides including N-acetyl-(Ala)2, Me-O-Suc-Ala-Ala-Pro-Val-p-NA, N-Acetyl-Met-Leu-Phe, Acetyl-Ser-Gln-Asn-Tyr and N-formyl-Met-p-NA. In each case the enzyme released an N-blocked amino acid and exposed a free amino group as judged by thin layer chromatography. Neither Ala-p-NA nor N-acetyl-Ala were hydrolysed by the same enzyme preparation. The enzyme activity from human and bovine lens was completely inhibited by DEP, and partially inhibited by PMSF, penicillin-G and ampicillin. These preliminary resuits show that lens tissue has an active acylpeptide hydrolase, however, a partially purified enzyme preparations was not able to cleave the acetyl-Met-from native αA-crystallin in vitro suggesting that the N-terminus of native crystallins is not accessible to the enzymes.
Parental knowledge of bacterial endocarditis prophylaxis.

The aim of this study was to determine parental knowledge of bacterial endocarditis prophylaxis (BEP).
Kaon zero-point fluctuations in neutron star matter

We investigate the contribution of zero-point motion, arising from fluctuations in kaon modes, to the ground state properties of neutron star matter containing a Bose condensate of kaons. The zero-point energy is derived via the thermodynamic partition function, by integrating out fluctuations for an arbitrary value of the condensate field. It is shown that the vacuum counterterms of the chiral Lagrangian ensure the cancellation of divergences dependent on $\ensuremath{\mu}$, the charge chemical potential, which may be regarded as an external vector potential. The total grand potential, consisting of the tree-level potential, the zero-point contribution, and the counterterm potential, is extremized to yield a locally charge neutral, $\ensuremath{\beta}$-equilibrated and minimum energy ground state. In some regions of parameter space we encounter the well-known problem of a complex effective potential. Where the potential is real and solutions can be obtained, the contributions from fluctuations are found to be small in comparison with tree-level contributions.
Toxicity and bioaccumulation of waterborne and dietary selenium in juvenile bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus)

Abstract Juvenile bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) were exposed to waterborne selenium as a 6:1 mixture of selenate to selenite (as Se) for 60 d and to dietary seleno- l -methionine for 90 d. Measured concentrations of total selenium in the waterborne exposure ranged from 0.16 to 2.8 mg/l, and concentrations of seleno- l -methionine in the test diet ranged from 2.3 to 25.0 mg/kg wet weight. Mortality, body weight, condition factor, swimming and feeding behavior, aggression, and selenium tissue residues were monitored during the tests. Increased mortality at measured concentrations of 0.64 mg Se/l and greater was the primary adverse effect of waterborne selenium on the juvenile bluegill. Bluegill exposed to 2.8 mg/l of waterborne Se for 30 d exhibited a significant reduction in condition factor (K), whereas dietary exposure of bluegill to 25 mg Se/kg for 30 d and 13 mg Se/kg or greater for 90 d elicited significant reductions in K. Mortality and swimming activity of bluegill were not affected in the dietary exposure. Net accumulation of Se from both water and diet was directly related to exposure concentration. Bioconcentration factors ranged from 5 to 7 for bluegill exposed to waterborne Se and from 0.5 to 1.0 for fish exposed to dietary Se. Results of these laboratory tests indicate that survival of bluegill may be impaired in natural waters with elevated Se concentrations.
Similarity and Equivalence of Nutating Mechanisms to Bevel Epicyclic Gear Trains for Modeling and Analysis

This paper addresses similarities between various nutating or wobbling mechanisms, in particular kinematic similarities. A case is made for the generalization of these mechanisms into a mechanism class having common kinematic characteristics, which is typified by bevel epicyclic gear trains. A similarity index is proposed to describe the quality of kinematic similarity, with the best degree of similarity termed equivalence. It is proposed that kinematic analysis of mechanisms belonging to this class can be simplified by modeling them as bevel-gear trains, and that static-force, power-flow, and efficiency analyses can also be greatly simplified in the case of equivalent mechanisms. Simplified kinematic, force, and efficiency analyses are demonstrated for a unique wobbling speed reducer using this new concept of equivalent geared mechanisms.
The inhibition of citrate synthase by adenosine triphosphate.

Abstract 1. 1.Citrate synthase (citrate oxaloacetate-lyase (CoA-acetylating), EC 4.1.3.7) has been partially purified from beef liver, beef heart and Escherichia coli. The beef heart and beef liver enzymes were quite similar in their pH optima, substrate affinities and sensitivity to ATP inhibition. The E. coli enzyme had a lower substrate affinity and had a lower Ki for ATP than the mammalian enzymes. The E. coli citrate synthase differed markedly from the mammalian enzymes in its response to pH changes. 2. 2.ATP was competitive with respect to CoASAc with the beef liver and beef heart enzymes. In E. coli, ATP was not competitive with CoASAc but changed both V and Km for oxaloacetate. Mg+ also inhibits the activity of the E. coli citrate synthase and tends to relieve the ATP inhibition. 3. 3.The ATP inhibition of citrate synthase may act in concert with AMP and ADP stimulation of isocitrate dehydrogenase and with citrate stimulation of CoASAc carboxylase in partitioning CoASAc between oxidation by way of the citric acid cycle and storage as fat. It may also play a role in regulating liver ketone body formation.
Melanoma and soft tissue sarcoma in seven patients

Seven patients with both melanoma and sarcoma were seen at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA) over a 4-year period. Three had additional malignant neoplasms; one of these patients also had the hereditary cutaneous malignant melanoma, dysplastic nevus syndrome. These observations suggest the possibility of a biologic relationship between melanoma and sarcoma, the nature of which remains unknown.
Optical NOR gate using diode laser sources.

Two diode lasers are employed as probe and pump light sources for an optical NOR gate consisting of a GaAs/AlGaAs multiple-quantum-well etalon. The frequency spectrum of the probe diode laser was found to be influenced by pump-laser injection into the probe laser as well as feedback of the probe laser itself, which can cause erroneous gate operation or a noisy output signal. Both the pump and feedback effects on the probe-laser frequency were eliminated using a Faraday isolator.
Prediction of medical student achievement by the utilization of personality characteristics and personal values.

The study measured personality characteristics and personal values and their usefulness in predicting achievement for 89 freshman medical students at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) Form F and The Values Scale by Nevill and Super were used to predict cumulative grade point average. Implications were that noncognitive variables may be predictive of cognitive performance. The relationship of personality preferences to achievement suggests a method of identifying learning patterns and teaching styles which could benefit medical students in preclinical and clinical years.
Lipopolysaccharides elicit an oxidative burst as a component of the innate immune system in the seagrass Thalassia testudinum.

Abstract This study represents the first report characterizing the biological effects of a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) immune modulator on a marine vascular plant. LPS was shown to serve as a strong elicitor of the early defense response in the subtropical seagrass Thalassia testudinum Banks ex Konig and was capable of inducing an oxidative burst identified at the single cell level. The formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), detected by a redox-sensitive fluorescent probe and luminol-based chemiluminescence, included a diphenyleneiodonium sensitive response, suggesting the involvement of an NADPH oxidase. A 900 bp cDNA fragment coding for this enzyme was sequenced and found to encode a NAD binding pocket domain with extensive homology to the Arabidopsis thaliana rbohF (respiratory burst oxidase homolog) gene. The triggered release of ROS occurred at 20 min post-elicitation and was dose-dependent, requiring a minimal threshold of 50 μg/mL LPS. Pharmacological dissection of the early events preceding ROS emission indicated that the signal transduction chain of events involved extracellular alkalinization, G-proteins, phospholipase A2, as well as K+, Ca2+, and anion channels. Despite exclusively thriving in a marine environment, seagrasses contain ROS-generating machinery and signal transduction components that appear to be evolutionarily conserved with the well-characterized defense response systems found in terrestrial plants.
Effects of gender and race on albuterol pharmacokinetics.

We evaluated the effects of race and gender on albuterol pharmacokinetics in 30 patients with moderate asthma (15 blacks, 15 whites, 16 men, 14 women). Subjects received a single dose of albuterol 8 mg oral solution and had blood samples collected at various times for 12 hours after the dose. Albuterol plasma concentrations were determined by HPLC with fluorescence detection, and pharmacokinetics were determined by compartmental analysis. The apparent volume of distribution of albuterol was significantly higher in men than in women (631 ± 171 and 510 ± 109 L, respectively, p<0.05). Consequently, the maximum concentration was lower in men than women (10.3 ± 2.1 and 12.0 ± 1.9 ng/ml, respectively, p<0.05). Elimination rates were 0.136 ± 0.008 and 0.160 ± 0.012 hour -1 , respectively (p<0.10). When corrected for ideal body weight, apparent volume of distribution was not different by gender. No differences between blacks and whites other than lag time were noted in albuterol kinetics. The greater apparent volume of distribution in men is likely explained by differences in ideal body weight or lean body mass.
The Major Histocompatibility Complex and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex disorder that appears to be caused by interactions between genetic changes and environmental insults during early development. A wide range of factors have been linked to the onset of ASD, but recently both genetic associations and environmental factors point to a central role for immune-related genes and immune responses to environmental stimuli. Specifically, many of the proteins encoded by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) play a vital role in the formation, refinement, maintenance, and plasticity of the brain. Manipulations of levels of MHC molecules have illustrated how disrupted MHC signaling can significantly alter brain connectivity and function. Thus, an emerging hypothesis in our field is that disruptions in MHC expression in the developing brain caused by mutations and/or immune dysregulation may contribute to the altered brain connectivity and function characteristic of ASD. This review provides an overview of the structure and function of the three classes of MHC molecules in the immune system, healthy brain, and their possible involvement in ASD.
A framework for remote dynamic program optimization

Dynamic program optimization allows programs to be generated that are highly tuned for a given environment and input data set. Optimization techniques can be applied and re-applied as program and machine characteristics are discovered and change. In most dynamic optimization and compilation frameworks, the time spent in code generation and optimization must be minimized since it is directly reflected in the total program execution time. We propose a generic framework for remote dynamic program optimization that mitigates this need. A local optimizer thread monitors the program as it executes and selects program sections that should be optimized. An optimizer, running on a remote machine or a free processor of a multiprocessor, is then called to actually perform the optimization and generate a new code variant for the section. A dynamic selector is used to select the most appropriate code variant for each code interval based upon the current runtime environment. We describe this framework in detail and present an example of its use on a simple application. We show that our framework, when used with changing input, can outperform the best statically optimized version of the application.
Systematic performance differences across the manufacturing-service continuum

It is becoming clear that management theories developed for manufacturing may not be wholly applicable to service firms. Evidence suggests that economic rents tend to occur at the business level in manufacturing, whereas they arise at the corporate level in services. We address this issue in terms of the characteristics of goods and services, and their effects on the drivers of firm performance across the manufacturing-service continuum. We deduce that the effects are non-linear and vary according to whether products are tangible standardized goods, customized goods and services, or standardized intangible services.
Carbon Composite Electrodes for Liquid Chromatography/Electrochemistry: Optimizing Detector Performance by Tailoring the Electrode Composition

Abstract Results obtained in this laboratory and elsewhere suggest that carbon composite electrodes may possess a signal-to-noise (S/N) advantage compared to continuous electrodes such as glassy carbon when used for detection of analytes in flowing streams. One succomposite electrode which appears partic- ularly attractive in this regard is the Kel-F-graphite (Kelgraf) electrode, compression molded from Kel-F and powdered graphite and containing 5 to 30% graphite by weight. Studies of the electrode surface by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy in conjunction with electrochemical investigations employing chronoamperometry, cyclic voltammetry, and capacitance measurements have led us to view the electrode surface as an ensemble of rnicroelectrodes, the dimensions of which can be varied by changes in particle size and/or ratio of Kel-F to graphite in the composite. The S/N advantage of the composite electrode apparently arises from a signal (current) enhanced by radial diffusio...
Approximate Analysis of Penetration of a Cylindrical Roller Into a Thin Elastic Coating

An analytical solution to the problem of two-dimensional indentation of a frictionless cylinder into a thin elastic coating bonded to a rigid substrate has been obtained using the approach introduced by Matthewson for axisymmetric indentation
What Factors are Associated with a Second Opioid Prescription after Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures with a Volar Locking Plate

Knowledge of factors associated with patient’s requests for a second opioid prescription after volar plate fixation of a fracture of the distal radius might inform better pain management protocols and encourage decreased and safer use of opioids. This study tested the primary null hypothesis that there is no difference in demographics, prior opioid prescriptions, injury characteristics, and psychological factors between patients that do and do not receive a second opioid prescription following treatment volar locking plate after distal radius fracture. We used data on 206 patients enrolled in one of two prospective studies. Their mean age was 53 years ± SD 15, and 60 (30 %) were men. Forty-seven (23 %) patients received a second opioid prescription. We recorded additional demographics, AO fracture type, American Society for Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, radiographic parameters at the time of injury prior to reduction and after surgery, and catastrophic thinking. Male sex (odds ratio [OR] 2.2, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.0–4.6, partial pseudo R 2 = 0.018, P = 0.044) and greater dorsal angulation of the articular surface on the lateral post injury radiograph (OR 0.98, 95 % CI 0.96 to 1.0, partial pseudo R 2 = 0.033, P = 0.040) were associated with a second opioid prescription after surgery (pseudo R 2 0.12, P = 0.0071). One measure of fracture severity (dorsal displacement) was independently associated with a second opioid prescription, but alone it accounted for 3.3 % of the variation. Other factors such as the patient’s expectation prior to surgery, in particular the realization that injury and surgery hurt, might be addressed in future research. Prognostic II
Clinical, histopathological and immunohistochemical study of oral squamous papillomas

AbstractObjective. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features of oral papillomas. Materials and methods. Biopsies of oral papillomas analyzed in the laboratory between 1996–2012 were extracted from the database and used to conduct this retrospective review. The following clinical data were extracted: sex, age, location, clinical appearance, time of evolution, recurrence and first clinical diagnosis. Immunohistochemical analysis for Human Papillomavirus (HPV)and histological evaluation of the lesions were performed. Results. A total of 205 papillomas were identified in 197 patients (♂=110, ♀ = 87; mean age = 48.4 ± 17.9 years).The majority of the lesions (n = 47) occurred on the soft palate (23%). The border of the tongue was the second most common site (n = 20, 9.8%). Lesions were more common in males than in females (ratio = 1.26:1). Statistical analysis did not show any correlation between the assessed variables. Clinically, papillomas were predominantl...
The Education of Speech-Language Pathologists in the United States of America

The education of speech-language pathologists and audiologists is provided by over 250 colleges and universities at the master's and doctoral level. The educational programs for speech-language pathologists and audiologists consist of academic coursework, clinical education, and supervised experience. Coursework and clinical education include study in liberal arts and science and human communication in addition to study in all aspects of communication sciences and disorders, including cultural and linguistic diversity. The programs may take 2 to 3 years beyond the bachelor's degree. Audiologists will require a doctoral degree beginning in 2012. Educational programs are accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. Individuals who wish so earn the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association.
The effects of 2 coexisting crayfish on an Appalachian river community

AbstractCrayfish can act as keystone species and ecosystem engineers in small streams, but their effects in large rivers are not well known. Two species of crayfish, Orconectes cristavarius and Cambarus chasmodactylus, coexist in the South Fork of the New River in western North Carolina. We used gut-content analyses and an enclosure–exclosure experiment to investigate the influence of both species of crayfish on sediment accumulation and benthic invertebrates. Crayfish guts contained mostly sediment and vegetative detritus. However, C. chasmodactylus guts contained significantly more detritus and animal matter than O. cristavarius guts, and O. cristavarius guts contained significantly more sediment than C. chasmodactylus guts. In the field experiment, sediment volume was lower in open baskets and cage controls, which were exposed to crayfish and benthic-feeding fish, than in enclosures containing only crayfish. Sediment volume was highest in fish/crayfish exclosures. Despite their effect on sediment accum...
Satellite climatological aspects of the “polar low” and “instant occlusion”

Middle resolution DMSP (Defense Meterological Satellite Program) visible and infrared imagery are analyzed in conjunction with surface and upper-air synoptic observations for two years' (1977, 1978/79) mid-season months (January, April, July, October) to derive synoptic climatological information on the “polar low” and “instant occlusion” phenomena. Polar-air vortices occur most frequently over the oceans in winter. Regional differences in the dominance of cloud signature sub-types confirm variations in the dynamics involved in polar-air cyclogenesis, as noted by previous workers. The “comma cloud” appears to occur more frequently in the North Pacific, while the spiraliform vortex predominates in the North Atlantic. The latter seems to be at least partly attributable to the effect of the eastern Arctic sea-ice boundary, as demonstrated by an analysis of imagery for two winters (D. J. F). each representative of an opposing mode of the North Atlantic Oscillation (1974/75. 1976/77). Composite synoptic “models” of polar lows reveal surface-pressure departures similar to those for cyclogenesis of the frontal wave type. However, a cold core and little vertical tilt distinguish the polar low in the mean. The “instant occlusion” exhibits surface-pressure departures that are deeper and comparable to the mature/dissipating stages of wave cyclone evolution. Spatial patterns of the upper-air anomalies associated with instant occlusions show two distinct vortices: one apparently derived from the polar low, the other from the incipient frontal wave with which it has merged. The seasonal and latitude-dependent cyclone intensity statistics (all types) are applied to the cloud vortex inventory of the North Atlantic-Europe sector for January 1979, The results support the role of the polar low as a synoptic indicator of anomalous winter circulation in the extratropics. DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0870.1985.tb00442.x