cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
If they come, we will build it: in vitro meat and the discursive struggle over future agrofood expectations

According to recent literature in the sociology of expectations, expectations about the future are “performative” in that they provide guidance for activities, attract attention, mobilize political and economic resources, coordinate between groups, link technical and social concerns, create visions, and enroll supporters. While this framework has blossomed over the past decade in science and technology studies, it has yet to be applied towards a more refined understanding of how the future of the modern agrofood system is being actively contested and understood. I seek to redress this gap by using the sociology of expectations to explain the discursive topography surrounding in vitro meat, a nascent agrofood technology whereby processed meat products are developed from stem cells as opposed to live animals. In discussing the obstacles and challenges which confront the proponents of this technology, I utilize three key concepts from the sociology of expectations: (1) hype, (2) retrospective prospects, and (3) the role of myth, metaphor, and ideology. I find that despite sluggish results and financial setbacks, the controversial legacy of previous agrofood technologies, and persistent cultural skepticism, the core ideological justifications for in vitro meat have proven to be resilient in buoying the technology through rough discursive waters.
An improved ion-selective electrode for perchlorate.

Abstract A new liquid-membrane ion-selective electrode for perchlorate ion based on tetrakistri-phenylphosphine silver(I) perchlorate in nitrobenzene is described. Its dynamic range and selectivities relative to most common anions are comparable to those of the Orion model 92–81 perchlorate sensor. However, it suffers much less hydroxide-ion interference than the Orion product.
A streamlined molecular biology module for undergraduate biochemistry labs.

Site-directed mutagenesis and other molecular biology techniques, including plasmid manipulation and restriction analysis, are commonly used tools in the biochemistry research laboratory. In redesigning our biochemistry lab curricula, we sought to integrate these techniques into a term-long, project-based course. In the module presented here, students use structural data to design a site-directed mutant and make the mutation using the Kunkel method. A second, silent mutant, that creates or removes a restriction site, is simultaneously introduced. Restriction digestion and agarose gel electrophoresis are used to assess the success of mutagenesis. Placing these procedures in the context of continuous, student-driven project serves to create a “research style” laboratory environment.
Identification and Elimination of Polysiloxane Curing Agent Interference Encountered in the Quantification of Low-Picogram per Milliliter Methyl tert-Butyl Ether in Blood by Solid-Phase Microextraction Headspace Analysis

Widespread use of the gasoline additive methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) and the subsequent human exposure that follows have led to the need to quantify MTBE in a variety of complex biological matrixes. In this work, we demonstrate our latest MTBE quantification assay for whole blood and uncover previously unidentified contamination sources that prevented routine quantification in the low picogram per milliliter (parts per trillion, ppt) range despite a sensitive and selective analytical approach. The most significant and unexpected sources of contamination were found in reagents and laboratory materials most relevant to sample preparation and quantification. In particular, significant levels of MTBE were identified in sample vial septa that use poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)-based polymers synthesized with peroxide curing agents having tert-butyl side groups. We propose that MTBE is one of the byproducts of these curing agents, which cross-link PDMS via the methyl side groups. Residual MTBE levels of ∼20 μg...
Three new species ofSchizothrix Kützing (Cyanophyta) from marine algal mats

Three new species of the genusSchizothrix (Cyanophyta) have been described:Sch. gracilis, Sch. splendida andSch. constricta. They are significant members of many algal mat communities in marine shallow water and intertidal environments.
Do Inner City Chain Stores Charge More

Chain store executives state that their prices are centrally determined and are therefore uniform within a metropolitan area. Consumer groups charge that prices in inner city chain stores are relatively higher. This study examines evidence relevant to this debate.
Counterexamples in measuring the distance between binary trees

Abstract Examples are given to show that the closest partition distance measure need not agree with the nearest neighbor interchange distance for unordered labeled binary trees. Proposed algorithms for computing the closest partition distance are shown to be of exponential complexity and hence may not be useful in approximating the nearest neighbor interchange distance.
Evaluation of an intensive strategy for follow-up and surveillance of primary breast cancer

Background: Controversies over the frequency and intensity of the follow-up care of breast cancer patients exist. Some physicians have adopted an intensive approach to follow-up care that consists of frequent laboratory tests and routine imaging studies, including chest radiographs, bone scans, and CT scans, whereas others have established a minimalist approach consisting of only history, physical examinations, and mammograms.
Advances in Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging for Dermatology

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique, which has previously demonstrated potential for use in dermatology. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate how improvements in image quality, speed, and functionality enable qualitative and quantitative information to be obtained from in vivo human skin. We developed a portable fiber-optic based OCT imaging device that requires only 1 second to simultaneously provide high-resolution images of skin structure, collagen birefringence, and blood flow. Images of normal human skin were acquired in vivo, and features compared with clinical and histologic observations. The layered structure and appendages of skin were apparent in conventional OCT images, and correlated well with corresponding histology. Polarization-sensitive OCT images simultaneously revealed birefringent regions within the dermis corresponding to the location of collagen fibers, as confirmed with polarized light microscopy. Properties of collagen-rich tissues including tendon and scar tissues were quantified. Location of blood flow was also displayed alongside structural and polarization-sensitive images. Significant improvements in OCT technology have been made since its early application in dermatology. In particular, combining the previously described structural and Doppler imaging functions with polarization-sensitive imaging increases the utility of the technique for rapid, non-invasive investigations in the skin.
Liquid-solid contact measurements using a surface thermocouple temperature probe in atmospheric pool boiling water☆

Abstract The objective of this investigation was to apply the technique of using a microthermocouple flushmounted at the boiling surface for the measurement of the local surface-temperature history in film and transition boiling on high temperature surfaces. From this measurement direct liquid-solid contact in film and transition boiling regimes was observed. In pool boiling of saturated, distilled, deionized water on an aluminum-coated copper surface, the time-averaged, local liquid-contact fraction increased with decreasing surface superheat. Average contact duration increased monotonieally with decreasing surface superheat, while frequency of liquid contact reached a maximum of ~ 50 contacts s −1 at a surface superheat of ~100 K and decreased gradually to 30 contacts s −1 near the critical heat flux. The liquid-solid contact duration distribution was dominated by short contacts 4 ms at low surface superheats, passing through a relatively flat contact duration distribution at about 80 K. The results of this paper indicate that liquid-solid contacts may be the dominant mechanism for energy transfer in the transition boiling process.
Anti-Hu-associated paraneoplastic sensory neuronopathy responding to early aggressive immunotherapy: Report of two cases and review of literature

Anti-Hu-associated paraneoplastic sensory neuropathy (PSN) has been reported to be nonresponsive to immunotherapy or cancer therapy. We report 2 patients with anti-Hu-associated PSN who achieved sustained clinical improvement with early and aggressive immunotherapy 10-15 months before the diagnosis of small-cell lung carcinoma. Both had chronic "sensory neuronopathy plus"; in addition to sensory neuronopathy, case 1 had a motor-autonomic dysfunction with encephalopathy, and case 2 had a motor-autonomic dysfunction with swallowing difficulty. These two cases were unusual in that sustained clinical improvement was achieved with early aggressive immunotherapy before the detection of cancer and without any concomitant anticancer therapy or lowering of anti-Hu antibody titer. We believe that early and aggressive immunotherapy should be tried in any patient with anti-Hu-associated PSN, as it may induce sustained clinical improvement.
Experimental wound repair in the black abalone, Haliotis cracherodii.

Histological sections of incisions made in the mantle and foot of the black abalone, Haliotis cracherodii, revealed a number of differences in wound healing of the two tissues. Initial muscular closure of the wound was more pronounced in the mantle as was invagination of the cut edges. Within 8 hr post-incision, leukocytes lined the wound surface, initiating granulation tissue formation. A layer of squamous epithelium covered this reparative tissue in the wound cavity within 16 days. Leukocytes and collagen deposition filled the foot wound cavity, pushing the new epithelium upward until it was even with the normal epithelial surface. Mucous cell secretion indicated that the new epithelium was functional 2 months after incision. Granulation tissue did not fill up the mantle wound cavity, so that the epithelial surface was still depressed 75 days post-incision. Granulation tissue formation in the foot was far more elaborate than that of the mantle during all phases of wound healing. In both structures epithelial differentation and vascularization of the granulation tissue occurred within 2 months after incision. Muscle development in the healing wound appeared to result from new muscle formation within the granulation tissue rather than by gradual infiltration of muscle fibers from the surrounding tissue. The healed tissue in both structures appeared to be functional.
Effects of Buprenorphine Maintenance Dose on μ -Opioid Receptor Availability, Plasma Concentrations, and Antagonist Blockade in Heroin-Dependent Volunteers

The clinical effectiveness of opioid maintenance for heroin dependence is believed to result from a medication's ability to decrease mu-opioid receptor (muOR) availability thereby replacing agonist effects, alleviating withdrawal symptoms and attenuating heroin effects. We empirically tested this hypothesis in five heroin-dependent volunteers who were successively maintained on 32, 16, 2, and 0 mg daily buprenorphine (BUP) tablet doses. We predicted and confirmed that higher BUP doses would decrease in vivo muOR availability (measured with PET and [(11)C]carfentanil), increase plasma levels of BUP and its metabolite nor-BUP, and decrease withdrawal symptoms and hydromorphone (HYD) responses. Relative to placebo, BUP significantly decreased mean (+/-SEM) whole-brain muOR availability 41+/-8, 80+/-2, and 84+/-2% at 2, 16, and 32 mg, respectively. Regions of interest (ROIs) (prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate, thalamus, amygdala, nucleus accumbens, caudate) showed similar dose-dependent effects. Changes in muOR availability varied across ROIs (prefrontal cortex, 47% vs amygdala, 27%) at BUP 2 mg, but were more homogeneous across ROIs at BUP 32 mg (94-98%; except thalamus, 88%). Relative to placebo (0 ng/ml), peak plasma levels of BUP and nor-BUP were comparable and dose-dependent (0.5-1, 5-6, and 13-14 ng/ml at 2, 16, and 32 mg, respectively). muOR availability decreases were negatively correlated with BUP plasma level and positively correlated with questionnaire-based opioid withdrawal symptoms and attenuation of HYD symptoms. These findings suggest that high-dose BUP maintenance produces near-maximal muOR occupation, muOR availability correlates well with plasma levels, and BUP-related opioid symptoms and antagonist blockade exhibit concentration-effect relationships.
Linear instability of the supersonic wake behind a flat plate aligned with a uniform stream

In this paper we present a theoretical and numerical study of the growth of linear disturbances in the high Reynolds number laminar compressible wake behind a flat plate which is aligned with a uniform stream. No ad hoc assumptions are made as to the nature of the undisturbed flow (in contrast to previous investigations) but instead the theory is developed rationally by use of proper wake profiles which satisfy the steady equations of motion. The initial growth of near-wake perturbations is governed by the compressible Rayleigh equation which is studied analytically for long and short waves. These solutions emphasize the asymptotic structures involved and provide a rational basis for a nonlinear development. The phenomenon of enhanced stability with increasing Mach number observed in compressible free shear-layers is demonstrated analytically for short- and long-wavelength disturbances. The evolution of arbitrary wavelength perturbations is addressed numerically and spatial stability solutions are presented that account for the relative importance of the different physical mechanisms present, such as three-dimensionality, increasing Mach numbers, and the nonparallel nature of the mean flow. Our findings indicate that for low enough (subsonic) Mach numbers, there exists a region of absolute instability very close to the trailing edge with the majority of the wake being convectively unstable. At higher Mach numbers (but still not large—hypersonic) the absolute instability region seems to disappear and the maximum available growth rates decrease considerably. Three-dimensional perturbations provide the highest spatial growth rates.
Systematic revision of Siwalik Rhizomyidae (Rodentia)

Abstract Larges samples of fossil rhizomyids from the Siwalikmolasse deposits of the Potwar Plateau, Pakistan, enable reevaluation of fossil taxa and their evolutionary relationships. Siwalik Rhizomyidae constitute a basis for analysis of poorly represented rhizomyids from other areas in Asia and contribute to biochronological correlation. The extant Tachyoryctinae and Rhizomyinae diverged during the early history of the family and diagnoses of the subfamilies are amended to include extinct genera. Siwalik tachyoryctines include Kanisamys, Protachyoryctes, Rhizomyides, and Eicooryctes nov. gen.; rhizomyines are Brachyrhizomys and Anepsirhizomys nov. gen. Kanisamys, the earliest Siwalik rhizomyid, appeared by about 13 Ma and evolved slowly, displaying stasis in K. sivalensis. Brachyrhizomys evolved from Kanisamys by 9.5 Ma and radiated rapidly. B. nagrii displays rapid increase in size through time. About 7 Ma, Kanisamys and Brachyrhizomys became extinct locally and Protachyoryctes, Eicooryctes, and Rhizomyides appeared, perhaps in response to increasing aridity. After 5.5 Ma, rhizomyids became uncommon in the Potwar and Anepsirhizomys (3.0 Ma) constitutes the latest record of Rhizomyidae in Pakistan.
Short-Term Parenteral Antibiotic Therapy for Puerperal Endometritis

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the effectiveness of a prospective protocol for short-term parenteral antibiotic treatment of puerperal endometritis. We evaluated 200 women with puerperal endometritis. They received broad spectrum parenteral antibiotics, usually mezlocillin or clindamycin plus gentamicin, until they were afebrile and asymptomatic for 24 to 48 hours. They then were discharged from the hospital and followed for a minimum of 6 weeks for late sequelae of their primary infection. Of 200 women, 98 were delivered by cesarean and 102 were delivered vaginally. Eight patients (4%) were bacteremic. Twenty-three patients (12%) required changes in their antibiotic regimen before they became afebrile. One individual was treated with heparin for septic pelvic vein thrombophlebitis. Only two women (1%), both of whom delivered vaginally and were initially treated with mezlocillin, were readmitted for recurrence of endometritis. Each responded promptly to treatment with combination antibiot...
Effects of Aging on Cerebral Blood Flow, Oxygen Metabolism, and Blood Oxygenation Level Dependent Responses to Visual Stimulation

Calibrated functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) provides a noninvasive technique to assess functional metabolic changes associated with normal aging. We simultaneously measured both the magnitude of the blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) responses in the visual cortex for separate conditions of mild hypercapnia (5% CO2) and a simple checkerboard stimulus in healthy younger (n = 10, mean: 28-years-old) and older (n = 10, mean: 53-years-old) adults. From these data we derived baseline CBF, the BOLD scaling parameter M, the fractional change in the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen consumption (CMRO2) with activation, and the coupling ratio n of the fractional changes in CBF and CMRO2. For the functional activation paradigm, the magnitude of the BOLD response was significantly lower for the older group (0.57 ± 0.07%) compared to the younger group (0.95 ± 0.14%), despite the finding that the fractional CBF and CMRO2 changes were similar for both groups. The weaker BOLD response for the older group was due to a reduction in the parameter M, which was significantly lower for older (4.6 ± 0.4%) than younger subjects (6.5 ± 0.8%), most likely reflecting a reduction in baseline CBF for older (41.7 ± 4.8 mL/100 mL/min) compared to younger (59.6 ± 9.1 mL/100 mL/min) subjects. In addition to these primary responses, for both groups the BOLD response exhibited a post-stimulus undershoot with no significant difference in this magnitude. However, the post-undershoot period of the CBF response was significantly greater for older compared to younger subjects. We conclude that when comparing two populations, the BOLD response can provide misleading reflections of underlying physiological changes. A calibrated approach provides a more quantitative reflection of underlying metabolic changes than the BOLD response alone.
Economic and sensitivity analyses of dynamic distributed generation dispatch to reduce building energy cost

The practicality of any particular distributed generation (DG) installation depends upon its ability to reduce overall energy costs. A parametric study summarizing DG performance capabilities is developed using an economic dispatch strategy that minimizes building energy costs. Various electric rate structures are considered and applied to simulate meeting various measured building demand dynamics for heat and power. A determination of whether investment in DG makes economic sense is developed using a real-time dynamic dispatch and control strategy to meet real building demand dynamics. Under the economic dispatch strategy, capacity factor is influenced by DG electrical efficiency, operations and maintenance cost, and fuel price. Under a declining block natural gas rate structure, a large local thermal demand improves DG economics. Increasing capacity for DG that produces low cost electricity increases savings, but installing further capacity beyond the average building electrical demand reduces savings. For DG that produces high cost electricity, reducing demand charges can produce savings. Heat recovery improves capacity factor and DG economics only if thermal and electrical demand is coincident and DG heat is utilized. Potential DG economic value can be improved or impaired depending upon how the utility electricity cost is determined.
A queueing network model with catastrophes and product form solution

Consider a network of queues with the possibility of catastrophes at each station. When a catastrophe occurs at one service station, all the customers there are destroyed immediately, and the server is then sent for repair. The catastrophes may come either from outside the system or from another service station. Steady-state probability of the queue sizes is obtained, and is shown to have a product form solution. This model can be used, for instance, to analyze migration processes with catastrophes, and computer networks with virus infections.
Predation on the Brown Trout by the Slimy Sculpin

(1972). Predation on the Brown Trout by the Slimy Sculpin. The Progressive Fish-Culturist: Vol. 34, No. 2, pp. 91-95.
Avoidable maternal and neonatal deaths associated with improving access to caesarean delivery in countries with low caesarean delivery rates: an ecological modelling analysis

Abstract Background Reducing maternal and neonatal deaths are important global health priorities. We have previously shown that up to a country-level caesarean delivery rate (CDRs) of roughly 19·0%, cesarean delivery rates and maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and neonatal mortality rate (NMR) were inversely correlated. We investigated the absolute reductions in maternal and neonatal deaths if countries with low CDR increased their rates to a range of greater than 7·2% but less than or equal to 19·1%. Methods We calculated maternal and neonatal deaths in 2013 and 2012, respectively, for countries with CDR 7·2% or less (N=45) with available data from the World Bank Development Indicators. We modelled the expected reduction in deaths in these countries if they had the 25th and 75th MMR and NMR percentiles observed for countries (N=48) with CDRs ranging from greater than 7·2% but less than or equal to 19·1%. This model assumes that if countries with low CDRs increased their rates of caesarean delivery to greater than 7·2% but less than or equal to 19·1%, they would achieve levels of MMR and NMR observed in countries with those CDRs. Findings We estimate 176 078 (95% CI 163 258–188 898) maternal and 1 117 257 (95% CI 1 033 611–1 200 902) neonatal deaths occurred in 45 countries with low CDRs in 2013 and 2012, respectively. If these countries had the 25th and 75th MMR and NMR percentiles (MMR, IQR 36–190; NMR, 9–24) observed in countries (N=48) with a CDR ranging from greater than 7·2% but less than or equal to 19·1%, there would be a potential reduction of 109 762–163 513 and 279 584–803 129 maternal and neonatal deaths, respectively. Interpretation Increasing caesarean delivery in countries with low CDRs could avert as many as 163 513 maternal deaths and 803 129 neonatal deaths annually. These findings assume that as health systems develop the capacity to deliver surgical care, there is a concurrent improvement in the quality of care and in the ability to rescue women and neonates who would otherwise die. Improving access to safe caesarean delivery should be a central focus in surgical care globally. Funding None.
Distinct Patterns of Neural Activation Associated with Ethanol Seeking: Effects of Naltrexone

A major factor contributing to the persistent nature of substance abuse disorders is the process of associative learning whereby environmental stimuli repeatedly paired with drug consumption acquire incentive-motivational value. Subjective responses to such stimuli have been implicated in maintaining ongoing drug use, eliciting drug craving, and precipitating relapse (O’Brien et al. 1998). Substantial advances have been made in understanding the neurocircuitry mediating the conditioned effects of drug-related environmental stimuli in the case of cocaine and, to some extent, opiates and nicotine. Studies utilizing c-fos expression as a marker of neural activation have revealed that these stimuli recruit corticolimbic circuitry components including the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), basolateral amygdala (BLA), nucleus accumbens (NAC), and hippocampus (Ciccocioppo et al. 2001; Franklin and Druhan 2000; Neisewander et al. 2000; Schroeder et al 2000, 2001, 2003; Schroeder and Kelley 2002). Functional brain imaging data in humans (Childress et al. 1999; Daglish et al. 2003) and targeted lesion or pharmacological approaches in animals (Cardinal et al. 2002; Everitt et al. 2001; See et al. 2003a; Tzschentke and Schmidt 2000) have further confirmed a role of these brain regions in cue-induced drug seeking and reinstatement. In contrast, little is known about the neural substrates controlling conditioned drug-seeking responses in the case of ethanol (EtOH) addiction, the most prevalent substance abuse disorder worldwide. To address this question, a c-fos mapping approach was employed to identify brain regions recruited by exposure to ethanol-associated contextual stimuli. A secondary objective, of relevance for understanding the neurocircuitry mediating conditioned ethanol-seeking, was to study the effects of the opiate antagonist naltrexone (NTX) on c-fos expression. Naltrexone reliably reduces ethanol cue reactivity and craving in alcoholics (Monti et al. 1999; O’Malley et al. 2002; Rohsenow et al. 2000), as well as cue-induced ethanol seeking in animal models of relapse (Ciccocioppo et al. 2002, 2003; Liu and Weiss 2002). To shed light on the neural substrates through which NTX inhibits conditioned ethanol seeking and to aid in identifying brain regions critical for the motivating effects of ethanol cues, the effects of NTX on c-fos expression patterns associated with ethanol cue exposure were examined.
Relaxation Mechanisms in Optical Pumping

The distribution of population in the ground-state sublevels of an optically pumped alkali-metal vapor has been found to be strongly dependent on the mechanism assumed responsible for relaxation. Two modes of optical pumping zero mixing and complete mixing in the excited state, and three modes of alkali relaxation, uniform, Zeeman, and electron randomization, are considered. Calculations of the sublevel relative populations are made in terms of experimentally measurable parameters for all six combinations of pumping and relaxation modes. Optical-pumping transient signals are then used to demonstrate that alkali relaxation due to wall collisions is of the low-frequency "Zeeman" variety, while relaxation due to alkali-rare-gas collisions takes place through randomization of the spin of the alkali valence electron. Equations for the rate of change of the electronic spin polarization are derived for all cases, and are found to be nonexponential, in contrast with the case of an alkali of zero nuclear spin.
Analog Data Transmission via Fiber Optics

In the SLAC Linear Collider Detector (SLD), as in most high-energy particle detectors, the electromagnetic noise environment is the limiting factor in electronic readout performance. Front-end electronics are particularly susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), and great care has been taken to minimize its effects. The transfer of preprocessed analog signals from the detector environs, to the remote digital processing electronics, by conventional means (via metal conductors), may ultimately limit the performance of the system. Because it is highly impervious to EMI and ground loops, a fiber-optic medium has been chosen for the transmission of these signals. This paper describes several fiber-optic transmission schemes which satisfy the requirements of the SLD analog data transmission.
The Trials and Accomplishments of an Online Adjunct Faculty Member.

The rate of expansion of online classes at community colleges has required hiring and training faculty for the online class offerings. The demand is being met in large part by adjunct faculty, who, as with face-to-face classes, continue to represent a large portion of the community college online faculty.
Caveolae-dependent internalization and homologous desensitization of VIP/PACAP receptor, VPAC2, in gastrointestinal smooth muscle

Abstract The main membrane proteins of caveolae (caveolin-1, -2 and -3) oligomerize within lipid rich domains to form regular invaginations of smooth muscle plasma membrane and participate in receptor internalization and desensitization independent of clathrin-coated vesicle endocytosis. We have previously shown that G s -coupled VIP/PACAP receptors, VPAC 2 , predominantly expressed in smooth muscle cells of the gut, are exclusively phosphorylated by GRK2 leading to receptor internalization and desensitization. Herein, we characterized the role of caveolin-1 in VPAC 2 receptor internalization and desensitization in gastric smooth muscle using three approaches: (i) methyl β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) to deplete cholesterol and disrupt caveolae in dispersed muscle cells, (ii) caveolin-1 siRNA to suppress caveolin-1 expression in cultured muscle cells, and (iii) caveolin-1 knockout mice (caveolin-1 −/− ). Pretreatment of gastric muscle cells with VIP stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of caveolin-1, and induced VPAC 2 receptor internalization (measured as decrease in 125 I-VIP binding after pretreatment) and desensitization (measured as decrease in VIP-induced cAMP formation after pretreatment). Caveolin-1 phosphorylation, and VPAC 2 receptor internalization and desensitization were blocked by disruption of caveolae with MβCD, suppression of caveolin-1 with caveolin-1 siRNA or inhibition of Src kinase activity by PP2. Pretreatment with VIP significantly inhibited adenylyl cyclase activity and muscle relaxation in response to subsequent addition of VIP in freshly dispersed muscle cells and in muscle strips isolated from wild type and caveolin-1 −/− mice; however, the inhibition was significantly attenuated in caveolin-1 −/− mice. These results suggest that caveolin-1 plays an important role in VPAC 2 receptor internalization and desensitization.
Calculation of binding energy differences for receptor–ligand systems using the Poisson‐Boltzmann method

An approach using the finite difference solution of the Poisson-Boltzmann equation to estimate binding free energy changes for two receptor–ligand systems, arabinose binding protein and sulfate binding protein, is presented. The eight calculated binding free energy changes agree with experiment, showing a correlation coefficient of 0.92 and energy deviations of 1 kcal/mol or less. More importantly, the decomposition of solvation and assembly energies in this approach provides an understanding of binding mechanisms and therefore could suggest directions to alter binding affinities. The method is demonstrated to be useful in analyzing experimental binding structures and predicting binding effects of mutants or modified ligands for macromolecular systems, in which the electrostatic forces dominate the overall interaction and the structural perturbations upon modifications are small. © 1995 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Analysis of integral controls in linear quadratic regulator design

The application of linear optimal control to the design of systems with integral control action on specified outputs is considered. Using integral terms in a quadratic performance index, an asymptotic analysis is used to determine the effect of variable quadratic weights on the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the closed loop system. It is shown that for small integral terms the placement of integrator poles and gain calculation can be effectively decoupled from placement of the primary system eigenvalues. This technique is applied to the design of integral controls for a STOL aircraft outer loop guidance system.
The p53 codon 72 polymorphism, sunburns, and risk of skin cancer in US caucasian women

The p53 gene is involved in the control of cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis. The germline Arg72Pro polymorphism alters the protein's biochemical functions, and may confer individual susceptibility to skin cancer. We evaluated the association of the Arg72Pro polymorphism with skin cancer risk among Caucasians in a nested case-control study within the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) (219 melanoma, 286 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and 300 basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and 874 controls). Compared to the Arg/Arg genotype, the Pro/Pro genotype had an OR of 1.57 (95%CI, 0.81–3.06) for melanoma risk, and an OR of 1.79 (95%CI, 1.01–3.17) for BCC risk. The positive association of the Pro allele with BCC risk was only limited to women with two or fewer lifetime sunburns (P, trend, 0.002; P, interaction, 0.02). No association was observed between the polymorphism and SCC risk. We also observed that the Pro allele was inversely associated with the risk of childhood sunburn among Caucasian participants pooled from four nested case-control studies within the NHS. This study suggests that the Arg72Pro polymorphism may play a role in skin carcinogenesis. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Hemolysis during long-term extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

We studied the cause of hemolysis during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) by monitoring hematologic and coagulation profiles in seven consecutive infants treated with this procedure. A constrained vortex pump was used in all patients, and the average duration of ECMO was 224±111 (SD) hours. In all patients, plasma free hemoglobin was low during the first 48 hours after the initiation of ECMO. Later, when visible clots appeared in the ECMO circuit, plasma hemoglobin progressively rose. A rise in the level of fibrin degradation products and a fall in the fibrinogen level were observed concurrently with a rise in the plasma hemoglobin level. After complete circuit changes in six patients, plasma free hemoglobin, fibrin split products, and fibrinogen all returned to baseline values. Neither circuit component changes nor exchange transfusion was effective in normalizing the levels of plasma free hemoglobin, fibrin split products, and fibrinogen. We conclude that when ECMO is administered for prolonged periods, circuit thrombosis occurs and hemolysis ensues. Additional studies are needed to assess the contribution of the constrained vortex pump to this process.
Promotion Mechanisms on the PGA TOUR

The dynamics of screening talent and promoting an athlete to a major team sports league is not entirely different from that of a major individual sports league. While talent is assessed through mechanisms offering more or less observations, coaching decisions and team quality that can affect performance in team sports are generally not present in individual sports. Avoiding the possible distortions that can come from assessing athletic talent in team sports, this article examines the ability of two PGA TOUR promotion mechanisms—the Nationwide Tour and Qualifying School (Q-school)—to predict success. As expected, the results suggest that more observations from the Nationwide Tour assessment mechanism provide more information about talent that can be used to better predict success on the PGA TOUR. But place of finish also matters, so promotion through the Nationwide Tour alone is not sufficient for a player to have the greatest chance for success.
Integrating stakeholder perspectives into the translation of cell-free fetal DNA testing for aneuploidy

The translation of novel genomic technologies from bench to bedside enjoins the comprehensive consideration of the perspectives of all stakeholders who stand to influence, or be influenced by, the translational course. Non-invasive prenatal aneuploidy testing that utilizes cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) circulating in maternal blood is one example of an innovative technology that promises significant benefits for its intended end users; however, it is currently uncertain whether it will achieve widespread clinical implementation. We conducted qualitative interviews with 18 diverse stakeholders in this domain, including prospective users of the technology and healthcare personnel, researchers and developers, and experts in social, legal, and regulatory aspects of genetic technology, and a pilot survey of 62 obstetric healthcare providers. Analysis of interview and survey data was combined with a review of the proceedings of a full-day, multidisciplinary conference on the topic and published scientific and ethics literature surrounding this and other relevant technologies. We constructed potential pathways for technological implementation, identified broad stakeholder classes party to these translational processes, and performed a preliminary assessment of the viewpoints and interrelations among these diverse stakeholders. Some of the stakeholders whose priorities are critical to understand and integrate into translation include pregnant women and their families; healthcare providers; scientists, their institutions or companies, and the funding agencies that support them; regulatory and judicial bodies; third-party payers; professional societies; educational systems; disability rights communities; and other representatives from civil society. Stakeholder interviews, survey findings, and conference proceedings add complexity to these envisioned pathways and also demonstrate a paramount need to incorporate an iterative stakeholder analysis early and throughout the translational endeavor. We believe that the translational framework that we have developed will help guide crucial future stakeholder mapping and engagement activities for cffDNA aneuploidy testing and inform novel methods of technology assessment for other developments in the growing field of genomic medicine. Mapping potential pathways for implementation and exploring the attitudes and interrelations of diverse stakeholders may lead to more effective translation of a novel method of prenatal aneuploidy testing.
Evaluation of four methods of warming intravenous fluids

Objective The purpose of this in vitro study was to comparefour methods of warming intravenous fluid (IVF) with a control of unwarmed IVF at flow rates of 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 ml/hr. Design A 5×5 factorial experimental design was used toevaluate the methods of warming IVF and the control at varied flow rates. Methods The methods of warming IVF in this study includedthe following: (1) the Level 1 System 250 fluid warmer with D-60HL tubing (Level 1 Technologies, Inc., Rockland, Mass.); (2) the Level 1 System 250 fluid warmer with D-50 tubing (Level 1 Technologies, Inc.); (3) the Hotline fluid warmer with L-70 tubing (Level 1 Technologies, Inc.); and (4) the Baxter DW 1000 D blood fluid warmer with blood cuff set tubing (Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Valencia, Calif.). The IVF temperatures were measured with thermocouples at three points: (1) in the intravenous solution bag, (2) in the tubing after the infusion pump, and (3) 2 cm proximal to the end of the tubing. Ambient temperature and the temperature at the three measurement points were recorded when the temperature at the point 2 cm proximal to the end of the tubing was stable for 3 minutes. Results With single-lumen tubing, fluids flowing at low rates(e.g., 200 ml/hr) were barely warm at the end of the tubing. In contrast, fluid warmed with triple-lumen technology was consistently kept warm throughout the tubing.
Effects of Sexually Objectifying Media on Self‐Objectification and Body Surveillance in Undergraduates: Results of a 2‐Year Panel Study

This study used objectification theory (B. L. Fredrickson & T.-A. Roberts, 1997) to predict that the media’s insidious practice of objectifying bodies socializes individuals to take an outsider’s perspective on the physical self (i.e., self-objectify) and to habitually monitor their appearance (i.e., engage in body surveillance). To test these hypotheses, a 2-year panel study using an undergraduate sample was conducted. Cross-lagged path models showed that exposure to sexually objectifying television measured during Year 1 increased trait self-objectification (trait SO) during Year 2 for both women and men. At the same time, trait SO during Year 1 decreased exposure to sexually objectifying television during Year 2, suggesting that both male and female participants selectively avoided sexually objectifying television based on antecedent trait SO. Moreover, exposure to sexually objectifying television and magazines increased body surveillance for men only. The discussion focuses on the process by which the media create body-focused perceptions.
Lost in Translation: The Effects of Incentive Compensation on Strategy Surrogation

To facilitate managers’ decision-making, firms develop strategic performance measurement systems that translate strategy into performance measures. Ideally, managers see measures for what they are: imperfect proxies for intangible strategic constructs. However, managers may fail to fully appreciate the fact that measures are merely representations of the strategic constructs, and act as though the measures were the construct of interest – a phenomenon we label surrogation. In this paper, we investigate whether and how the use of strategically-linked performance measures for compensation purposes affects managers’ propensity to exhibit surrogation. In accordance with the attribute substitution framework (Kahneman and Frederick 2002), we predict that this tendency is most prevalent when managers are compensated on a single measure of a strategic construct, and that this tendency is less prevalent when managers are compensated on multiple measures of a strategic construct. Via two experiments, we find support for these hypotheses. Our paper contributes to the literature on strategic performance measurement systems by highlighting the tendency of managers to use measures as surrogates for strategy. Moreover, given that surrogation can be detrimental to the implementation of strategy, our study furthers academic and practitioner understanding of factors that affect the extent to which firms incur this cost.
Delayed-onset paraplegia from improper seat belt use

Presented is the case report of a toddler who suffered delayed-onset paraplegia after a motor vehicle accident. An improperly used adult lap belt is postulated as the etiology causing a probable vascular event with ischemic injury to the distal cord; however, recurrent cord injury from presumed occult spinal instability was a possible explanation. This case highlights that the syndrome of spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality can present subtly (in this case, foot "pain"), that full neurologic manifestations can be delayed, and that good neurologic recovery is possible.
Dollar Shortages and Crises

Emerging markets do not handle adverse shocks well. In this paper, we lay out an argument about why emerging markets are so fragile, and why they may adopt contractual mechanisms—such as a dollarized banking system—that increase their fragility. We draw on this analysis to explain why dollarized economies may be prone to dollar shortages and twin crises. The model of crises described here differs in some important aspects from what are now termed the first-, second-, and third-generation models of crises. We then examine how domestic policies, especially monetary policy, can mitigate the adverse effects of these crises. Finally, we consider the role, potentially constructive, that international financial institutions may undertake both in helping to prevent the crises and in helping to resolve them.
Refinements in the Treatment of Ice Particle Terminal Velocities, Highlighting Aggregates

Recent work on the terminal velocity of ice crystal aggregates suggests that their “Re–X ” relationship may not be well predicted by current theory. This study examines possible reasons for this departure from theory, and develops a new Re–X relationship appropriate for ice crystal aggregates. The methodology of Khvorostyanov and Curry was applied to this new relationship to formulate power-law expressions for all ice particle types. Fall speed differences between the Khvorostyanov and Curry approach and the approach described here were as large as 50% for aggregates and 30% for single crystals. This was primarily due to the following: 1) surface roughness coefficients used in the former were appropriate for rigid spheres and liquid drops but not for ice crystals and 2) the relationship between Reynolds number Re and Best number X at high Re is better described for aggregates by adding a second term to the Re–X governing equation, as done in this work. The corrections and improvements described here may be critical to the calculation of snowfall rates, to the modeling of the aggregation process, and for interpreting Doppler radar measurements during snowfall events. Since most of the size distribution mass is generally associated with aggregates below cloud base, an accurate treatment of aggregate fall speeds is needed for determining snowfall rates.
Analysis of the RelA:CBP/p300 interaction reveals its involvement in NF-κB-driven transcription.

NF-κB plays a vital role in cellular immune and inflammatory response, survival, and proliferation by regulating the transcription of various genes involved in these processes. To activate transcription, RelA (a prominent NF-κB family member) interacts with transcriptional co-activators like CREB-binding protein (CBP) and its paralog p300 in addition to its cognate κB sites on the promoter/enhancer regions of DNA. The RelA:CBP/p300 complex is comprised of two components—first, DNA binding domain of RelA interacts with the KIX domain of CBP/p300, and second, the transcriptional activation domain (TAD) of RelA binds to the TAZ1 domain of CBP/p300. A phosphorylation event of a well-conserved RelA(Ser276) is prerequisite for the former interaction to occur and is considered a decisive factor for the overall RelA:CBP/p300 interaction. The role of the latter interaction in the transcription of RelA-activated genes remains unclear. Here we provide the solution structure of the latter component of the RelA:CBP complex by NMR spectroscopy. The structure reveals the folding of RelA–TA2 (a section of TAD) upon binding to TAZ1 through its well-conserved hydrophobic sites in a series of grooves on the TAZ1 surface. The structural analysis coupled with the mechanistic studies by mutational and isothermal calorimetric analyses allowed the design of RelA-mutants that selectively abrogated the two distinct components of the RelA:CBP/p300 interaction. Detailed studies of these RelA mutants using cell-based techniques, mathematical modeling, and genome-wide gene expression analysis showed that a major set of the RelA-activated genes, larger than previously believed, is affected by this interaction. We further show how the RelA:CBP/p300 interaction controls the nuclear response of NF-κB through the negative feedback loop of NF-κB pathway. Additionally, chromatin analyses of RelA target gene promoters showed constitutive recruitment of CBP/p300, thus indicating a possible role of CBP/p300 in recruitment of RelA to its target promoter sites.
“Magic” Nanostructures During the Early Stage of Thin Film Growth

The behaviors of thin indium films in the early stage of growth are studied in situ by a novel ultra-sensitive thin film scanning calorimetry technique. The films consist of ensembles of self-assembled indium nanostructures whose melting temperatures are strongly influenced by size. We experimentally determine the relationship between a nanostructure’s radius and its melting point by combining the measured caloric results with nanostructure size distributions obtained from TEM. The results show a linear melting point depression. Moreover, by looking at the fine structures of these caloric curves, we found the discrete nature of nanostructures during the early stage of thin film growth. The measured heat capacity values show several local maxima at certain temperatures. This suggests that preferred energy states exist among these supported nanostructures on amorphous surfaces. These local maxima are related to each other by increments of one monolayer of indium atoms. These findings could be extended from the magic numbers observed previously in cluster beams studies.