cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
At the Elbows of Scientists: Shaping Science Teachers' Conceptions and Enactment of Inquiry-Based Instruction

This study stemmed from concerns among researchers that reform efforts grounded in promoting inquiry as the basis for teaching science have not achieved the desired changes in American science classrooms. Many science teachers assume that they are employing inquiry-based strategies when they use cookbook investigations with highly structured step-by-step instructions. Additionally, most science teachers equate hands-on activities with classroom inquiry and, as such, repeatedly use prepackaged, disconnected activities to break the monotony of direct instruction. Despite participation in numerous professional development activities, many science teachers continue to hold misconceptions about inquiry that influence the way they design and enact instruction. To date, there is very limited research exploring the role of inquiry-based professional development in facilitating desired changes in science teachers’ conceptions of inquiry. This qualitative study of five high school science teachers explores the ways in which authentic inquiry experiences with a team of scientists in Panama shaped their conceptions and reported enactments of inquiry-based instruction. Our findings suggest that professional development experiences engaging science teachers in authentic research with scientists have the potential to change teachers’ naive conceptions of inquiry, provided that necessary supports are provided for reflection and lesson design.
The Effects of Visual and Proprioceptive Feedback on Motor Learning

A self paced linear positioning task was used to study the effects of visual and proprioceptive feedback on learning and performance. Subjects were trained with knowledge of results (KR) and tested without it. The analysis of the absolute error scores of the no-KR trials is discussed in this paper. Visual feedback was the more effective source of sensory feedback, but proprioceptive feedback was also effective. An observation that the response did not become independent of sensory feedback as a result of learning, was interpreted as supporting Adams closed loop theory of motor learning in preference to the motor program hypothesis. Other data showed that the presence of visual feedback during learning could inhibit the later effectiveness of proprioceptive feedback.
Mechanochemistry: Polymers react to stress

The latest polymers are chameleon-like: they change colour on deformation. The transduction mechanism underpinning this effect could be used to make polymers that respond in many other ways to mechanical stress.
Comments on 'Optimal gain for proportional-integral-derivative feedback' by S.A.K. Al-Assadi and L.A.M. Al-Chalabi

This comment concerns the comparison of tuning parameters for proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controllers proposed in the above paper (ibid., vol.7, no.6, p.16-19, 1987). The commenters focus on the time-delay example and the resulting table contained in the above paper. They remark on some fundamental points regarding PID controllers that have been misunderstood in the above paper as well as in T.B. Kinney (Chem. Eng., p.67, Sept. 1983), which serves as one of its principal references. >
Allopurinol reduces levels of urate and dopamine but not dopaminergic neurons in a dual pesticide model of Parkinson's disease.

Robust epidemiological data link higher levels of the antioxidant urate to a reduced risk of developing Parkinson׳s disease (PD) and to a slower rate of its progression. Allopurinol, an inhibitor of xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR), blocks the oxidation of xanthine to urate. The present study sought to determine whether lowering levels of urate using allopurinol results in exacerbated neurotoxicity in a dual pesticide mouse model of PD. Although oral allopurinol reduced serum and striatal urate levels 4-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively, it did not alter the multiple motor deficits induced by chronic (7 week) intermittent (biweekly) exposure to intraperitoneal Paraquat (PQ) plus Maneb (MB). However, striatal dopamine content, which was unaffected after either allopurinol or chronic pesticide exposure alone, was significantly reduced by 22% in mice exposed to the combination. Stereological assessment showed that the numbers of dopaminergic nigral neurons were significantly reduced by 29% and the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) negative neurons unaffected after PQ+MB treatments. This reduction in TH-positive neurons was not affected by allopurinol treatment. Of note, despite the expectation of exacerbated oxidative damage due to the reduction in urate, protein carbonyl levels, a marker of oxidative damage, were actually reduced in the presence of allopurinol. Overall, allopurinol lowered urate levels but did not exacerbate dopaminergic neuron degeneration, findings suggesting that basal levels of urate in mice do not appreciably protect against oxidative damage and neurotoxicity in the PQ+MB model of PD, and/or that allopurinol produces an antioxidant benefit offsetting its detrimental urate-lowering effect.
The atrial myocardial cells of mouse heart a structural and stereological study

Structural and stereological studies of mouse atrial myocardial cells, carried out in the same fashion as our previous investigations on mouse ventricle, demonstrate an extremely well-developed sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in atrial cells. The volume fraction (Vv) of the SR exceeds 12% in mouse atrial cells; perimyofibrillar network SR constitutes the major portion. We have confirmed the findings of Bossen et al. (1981, Tissue Cell 13, 71-77) of a difference between atria in terms of coupling density, the right atrium having a significantly lower incidence of interior junctional SR than the left. The SR of mouse atrium comprises a rich variety of specialized segments, including the IJSR, peripheral junctional SR, corbular SR, cisternal SR (including regions similar to fenestrated collars of striated skeletal muscle SR), as well as a peculiar form of extended junctional SR (EJSR). Although less frequent in occurrence than corbular SR, the EJSR seems closely related, since it occurs in multiple clusters at or near the Z-line regions, contains internal granular densities, and bears surface-connected structures resembling junctional processes. Seen in thin sections, mouse atrial EJSR elements are more complex than corbular SR, being larger in diameter and frequently circular in profile. Thick-section and serial-section analyses reveal that bodies of EJSR are in fact hollow spheroids. The transverse-axial tubular system of mouse atrium is rather poorly developed in comparison to its ventricular counterpart. The Golgi apparatus and associated specific atrial granules are prominent cell components. "Focal ellipsoidal deposits" (FEDs) previously described by Page and co-workers (1986, Amer. J. Physiol.) are consistently located adjacent to the Golgi region, but immunocytochemical staining for two different segments of atrial natriuretic peptide reveals no specific reaction in FEDs, whereas the SAGs are densely labeled for both antibodies.
A Facile Ligation Approach to Prepare Three-Helix Bundles of HIV Fusion-State Protein Mimetics

We have designed a facile ligation approach to prepare three-helix bundles mimicking the HIV membrane fusion-state proteins that may be useful as inhibitors and vaccine candidates for blocking HIV infection. [reaction: see text]
Large and Small Artery Occlusion in Diabetics and Nondiabetics with Severe Vascular Disease

Casts were made of the vascular lumen of 20 successive extremities amputated for gangrene. Half of the patients were diabetic. All nondiabetics had arteriosclerotic vascular disease plus acute occl...
Fluorescence lifetime as a new parameter in analytical cytology measurements

A phase-sensitive flow cytometer has been developed to quantify fluorescence decay lifetimes on fluorochrome-labeled cells/particles. This instrument combines flow cytometry (FCM) and frequency-domain fluorescence spectroscopy measurement principles to provide unique capabilities for making phase-resolved lifetime measurements, while preserving conventional FCM capabilities. Cells are analyzed as they intersect a high-frequency, intensity-modulated (sine wave) laser excitation beam. Fluorescence signals are processed by conventional and phase-sensitive signal detection electronics and displayed as frequency distribution histograms. In this study we describe results of fluorescence intensity and lifetime measurements on fluorescently labeled particles, cells, and chromosomes. Examples of measurements on intrinsic cellular autofluorescence, cells labeled with immunofluorescence markers for cell- surface antigens, mitochondria stains, and on cellular DNA and protein binding fluorochromes will be presented to illustrate unique differences in measured lifetimes and changes caused by fluorescence quenching. This innovative technology will be used to probe fluorochrome/molecular interactions in the microenvironment of cells/chromosomes as a new parameter and thus expand the researchers' understanding of biochemical processes and structural features at the cellular and molecular level.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Differences in Black and White American College Students’ Attitudes Toward Lesbians and Gay Men

Differences in attitudes toward lesbians and gay men (ATLGM) held by Black and White Americans have rarely been studied systematically despite anecdotal evidence suggesting that Black Americans may be less accepting of lesbians and gay men than are White Americans. We tested the hypothesis that Black American’s ATLGM would be less positive than White Americans’ using data collected from 60 Black (36 female, 24 male) and 62 White (25 female, 37 male) students from a public university in the Midwestern United Sates. We found that Black students held generally neutral ATLGM whereas White students’ attitudes were slightly positive. This difference was mediated by racial group differences in right-wing authoritarianism.
Transitioning Into a Major: The Effectiveness of an Academic Intervention Course

The authors examined the effectiveness of a course designed to assist students in transitioning into a business major in achieving its learning outcomes in three areas: knowledge of the curriculum, utilization of the career center, and an appreciation of the value of and involvement in cocurricular activities. We collected data from 361 students enrolled in the course. The results indicate that the course was effective in all three areas, having a positive impact on both first-generation college students and those who are not. The value of a college-concurrent intervention for all types of students is discussed.
Probiotics and Immune Regulation of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Intestinal microflora play an important role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Certain probiotic bacteria provide beneficial effects for human health and intervention of IBD. Possible mechanisms underlying these effects are diverse and include many aspects of the interaction of the host with its commensal microflora, with immunological and non-immunological effects. This review paper will focus on the recent progress in the use of probiotics in the treatment of IBD, and discuss the potential immunological mechanisms underlying their effects, such as the modulation of mucosal T cell, B cell, epithelial cell, dendrtic cell, macrophage, nature killer cell, antibody, and cytokine responses.
The ground state fundamentals of p-benzoquinone and p-benzoquinone-d4

Abstract The solid state infrared and Raman spectra of p -benzoquinone and several isotopic derivatives are reported and compared with the results of previous solution and vapor phase studies and with the results of previously published normal coordinate analyses. The vibrational assignments are discussed in terms of the vibronic activity observed in the phosphorescence spectra of the individual isotopically related quinones in several host lattices at 2°K. The infrared and Raman inactive fundamentals of p -benzoquinone- h 4 obtained from vibronic analyses of the vapor phase resonance fluorescence are reported. The six Raman active lattice modes of p -benzoquinone- h 4 and - d 4 are assigned with the aid of isotope shifts and thermal-anisotropic-motion amplitudes from previously published X-ray diffraction data.
Structures and compositions of the silicides of ruthenium, osmium, rhodium and iridium

Abstract The compositions and structures of the silicides of ruthenium, osmium, rhodium, and iridium were investigated. Series of samples of known proportions of metal and silicon of these four systems were prepared. The X-ray powder pattern of each phase stable at the equilibrium temperatures of the study (1340°C, 1350°C, 1170°C, and 1340°C, respectively) was examined. The structure types of two phases of previously reported unit cell dimensions were established: RuSi (FeSi-type), a 0 = 4.703 ± 0.001 A ; IrSi3 (Na3-As-type), a 0 = 4.350 ± 0.005 A ; C 0 = 6.630 ± 0.005 A . Structure types were assigned to two previously unreported phases that are stabilized by a third component (aluminum or oxygen): OsSi (CsCl-type), a 0 = 2.960 ± 0.001 A ; OsSi2 ( C 2 m ), a 0 = 8.77 ± 0.01 A ; b 0 = 3.00 ± 0.01 A ; c 0 = 7.38 ± 0.01 A ; β = 118°30′ ± 30′, the latter by single crystal study. Aluminum or oxygen was found to stabilize the previously reported RhSi-(CsCl-type) phase. The Ni2In-type structure of IrS0.7±0.1 was confirmed. New phases, RuSi1.8±0.3, OsSi1.8±0.3, OsSi3.0 ± 0.5, and RhSi0.7±0.1, were found but were not structurally analyzed.
Pathologies of temporal difference methods in approximate dynamic programming

Approximate policy iteration methods based on temporal differences are popular in practice, and have been tested extensively, dating to the early nineties, but the associated convergence behavior is complex, and not well understood at present. An important question is whether the policy iteration process is seriously hampered by oscillations between poor policies, roughly similar to the attraction of gradient methods to poor local minima. There has been little apparent concern in the approximate DP/reinforcement learning literature about this possibility, even though it has been documented with several simple examples. Recent computational experimentation with the game of tetris, a popular testbed for approximate DP algorithms over a 15-year period, has brought the issue to sharp focus. In particular, using a standard set of 22 features and temporal difference methods, an average score of a few thousands was achieved. Using the same features and a random search method, an overwhelmingly better average score was achieved (600,000–900,000). The paper explains the likely mechanism of this phenomenon, and derives conditions under which it will not occur.
An analysis of a new stable partitioned algorithm for FSI problems. Part I: Incompressible flow and elastic solids

Abstract Stable partitioned algorithms for fluid–structure interaction (FSI) problems are developed and analyzed in this two-part paper. Part I describes an algorithm for incompressible flow coupled with compressible elastic solids, while Part II discusses an algorithm for incompressible flow coupled with structural shells. Importantly, these new added-mass partitioned (AMP) schemes are stable and retain full accuracy with no sub-iterations per time step, even in the presence of strong added-mass effects (e.g. for light solids). The numerical approach described here for bulk compressible solids extends the scheme of Banks et al. [1] , [2] for inviscid compressible flow, and uses Robin (mixed) boundary conditions with the fluid and solid solvers at the interface. The basic AMP Robin conditions, involving a linear combination of velocity and stress, are determined from the outgoing solid characteristic relation normal to the fluid–solid interface combined with the matching conditions on the velocity and traction. Two alternative forms of the AMP conditions are then derived depending on whether the fluid equations are advanced with a fractional-step method or not. The stability and accuracy of the AMP algorithm is evaluated for linearized FSI model problems; the full nonlinear case being left for future consideration. A normal mode analysis is performed to show that the new AMP algorithm is stable for any ratio of the solid and fluid densities, including the case of very light solids when added-mass effects are large. In contrast, it is shown that a traditional partitioned algorithm involving a Dirichlet–Neumann coupling for the same FSI problem is formally unconditionally unstable for any ratio of densities. Exact traveling wave solutions are derived for the FSI model problems, and these solutions are used to verify the stability and accuracy of the corresponding numerical results obtained from the AMP algorithm for the cases of light, medium and heavy solids.
Correlates of attitudes about "the right to die" among 1973 and 1976 high school and college students.

Attitudes about “the right to die” were studied among high school and college students at three recent points in time. A general item about the right to decide between life and death, and a specific one about that right for the terminally ill were accepted by more than half the students; both were more accepted than an item rejecting life after death. All three items were related to beliefs about religion, abortion, teenage birth control, and the worth of current ideas. The “right to die” items were positively correlated in all groups; the more conservative the students, the likelier they were to disagree with them. Agreement was related to belief in self-determination in moral/social matters. The item rejecting life after death was generally unrelated to the “right to die” items and to liberalism-conservatism, but its acceptance was greater among the more dogmatic college students, and among those derogating ideas and people. Possible reasons for the combined personality and time period effects were disc...
Sb-terminated InAs(001)-(2×4) and (2×8) studied using scanning tunneling microscopy and ab initio density functional theory

Abstract : We have studied the structure of MBE-grown InAs(001)-(2 x 4) surfaces exposed to low Sb2 fluxes by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and ab initio density functional theory (DFT). Experimentally, we observe an Sb-terminated alpha 2(2 x 4) phase over a wide range of temperatures (400 - 510 deg C) for low Sb2 flux (< 0.1 ML/s), whereas temperature and As2 flux must be carefully controlled to achieve the same As-terminated surface structure. At lower temperatures, we observe indications of an Sb-terminated (2 x 8) symmetry surface phase, and we report briefly on its proposed structure and stability, as well as its possible role in subsequent formation of the Sb-terminated (1 x 3) phase found at typical Sb2 fluxes used during heterostructure growth.
Menin associates with FANCD2, a protein involved in repair of DNA damage

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type I (MEN1) is an inherited tumor syndrome characterized by tumors in multiple endocrine organs including the parathyroids, pancreatic islets, and the pituitary. The gene mutated in MEN1 patients, Men1, encodes a protein of 610 amino acid residues, menin, and mutations in the Men1 gene lead to the MEN1 syndrome. Although the chromosomal instability in the peripheral lymphocytes from the MEN1 patients has been reported previously, it is not clear whether menin is involved in repair of DNA damage. Here we show that menin specifically interacts with FANCD2, a protein encoded by a gene involved in DNA repair and mutated in patients with an inherited cancer-prone syndrome, Fanconi anemia. The interaction between menin and FANCD2 is enhanced by gamma-irradiation. Moreover, loss of menin expression in mouse embryonic fibroblasts leads to increased sensitivity to DNA damage. Furthermore, menin is localized to chromatin and nuclear matrix, and the association with nuclear matrix is enhanced by gamma-irradiation. Together, these results suggest that menin plays a critical role in repair of DNA damage in concert with FANCD2.
Environment-sensitive behavior of fluorescent molecular rotors

Molecular rotors are a group of fluorescent molecules that form twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) states upon photoexcitation. When intramolecular twisting occurs, the molecular rotor returns to the ground state either by emission of a red-shifted emission band or by nonradiative relaxation. The emission properties are strongly solvent-dependent, and the solvent viscosity is the primary determinant of the fluorescent quantum yield from the planar (non-twisted) conformation. This viscosity-sensitive behavior gives rise to applications in, for example, fluid mechanics, polymer chemistry, cell physiology, and the food sciences. However, the relationship between bulk viscosity and the molecular-scale interaction of a molecular rotor with its environment are not fully understood. This review presents the pertinent theories of the rotor-solvent interaction on the molecular level and how this interaction leads to the viscosity-sensitive behavior. Furthermore, current applications of molecular rotors as microviscosity sensors are reviewed, and engineering aspects are presented on how measurement accuracy and precision can be improved.
Linguistic Research and Language Teaching

It is not uncommon for theoretical linguists to find themselves involved in language teaching because of their expertise in a specific language, even though their primary training is not in language instruction. Apparent lack of intellectual stimulus and career development is a typical concern shared by those who are in these academic positions; and it is sometimes the case that time spent on language teaching is perceived to be detrimental to a successful tenure decision. Based on my own experience as a linguist in a language department for the past 20 years, I will discuss some of these dilemmas and suggestions that may lead to a more positive outlook of those who face a similar situation.
Persistent colonization and the spread of antibiotic resistance in nosocomial pathogens: Resistance is a regional problem

Infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in hospitalized patients are becoming increasingly frequent despite extensive infection-control efforts. Infections with ARB are most common in the intensive care units of tertiary-care hospitals, but the underlying cause of the increases may be a steady increase in the number of asymptomatic carriers entering hospitals. Carriers may shed ARB for years but remain undetected, transmitting ARB to others as they move among hospitals, long-term care facilities, and the community. We apply structured population models to explore the dynamics of ARB, addressing the following questions: (i) What is the relationship between the proportion of carriers admitted to a hospital, transmission, and the risk of infection with ARB? (ii) How do frequently hospitalized patients contribute to epidemics of ARB? (iii) How do transmission in the community, long-term care facilities, and hospitals interact to determine the proportion of the population that is carrying ARB? We offer an explanation for why ARB epidemics have fast and slow phases and why resistance may continue to increase despite infection-control efforts. To successfully manage ARB at tertiary-care hospitals, regional coordination of infection control may be necessary, including tracking asymptomatic carriers through health-care systems.
Initial experience with routine less invasive implantation of HeartMate II left ventricular assist device without median sternotomy

OBJECTIVES: Standard implantation of HeartMate II (HMII) left ventricular assist device requires an extended median sternotomy; this incision, while generally well tolerated, may add morbidity in critically ill debilitated patients. We recently adopted a sternum sparing technique for routine HMII implants using a left subcostal incision to create a pocket and access the left ventricular apex, and a right minithoracotomy to access the ascending aorta. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of 40 consecutive patients (M:F 32 : 8; age range 48–77 years; Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support 1 = 8; 2 = 10; 3 or 4 = 22) who underwent implantation of HMII using a non-sternotomy approach in a single institution. RESULTS: HMII insertion was completed with the less invasive technique in all cases with no conversions to full sternotomy. There were no reoperations for bleeding and 70% of patients did not have any intraoperative blood product transfusion. No patient required right ventricular assist device support. Majority of patients (80%) were extubated by postoperative day 1. There were no wound, mediastinal or pocket infections. One patient suffered a new perioperative stroke. Median postoperative hospital stay was 19 days. Operative mortality was 7.5% and 12-month actuarial survival was 86 ± 6%. CONCLUSIONS: Primary HMII implantation without median sternotomy is feasible and can be safely, effectively and routinely applied, using our less invasive approach. Further investigation is necessary to determine whether the non-invasive technique contributed to the low incidence of bleeding, blood transfusion, respiratory morbidity and right ventricular failure seen in this study.
The Impact of Death-Related Fears on Attitudes of Nurses in a Hospital Work Setting.

This paper examines the impact of death-related fears on the responses of RNs and LPNs employed in a general hospital to descriptions of work situations involving dying and death. Results were base...
A note on mass lumping in the finite element time domain method

Mass lumping has been used to produce explicit time integration schemes for the finite element time domain method. In this paper, we show that a specific choice in the lumping procedure can produce a scheme that is equivalent to the finite difference time domain method. If lumping is done in the time integration process, one can show that it can be equivalent to the Newmark-beta method.
Intractable epilepsy, hemispheric malformation, and generalized electroencephalography abnormalities.

We present a case of a young boy with a large hemispheric dysplasia, generalized EEG abnormalities and intractable epilepsy who achieved seizure freedom and markedly improved cognitive outcome after functional hemispherectomy
Peer Victimization and Child Physical Health: The Moderating Role of Pessimism

Objective Involvement in peer victimization has been associated with numerous negative consequences, including poor physical health. The purpose of this study is to improve on previous research evaluating the victimization–health relationship by examining the health (i.e., health-related quality of life [HRQoL], medical service utilization) of both victims and aggressors and examining individual variation in this relationship through the moderating effect of pessimism. Method The sample included 125 ethnically diverse youth aged 8–11 years recruited from a low-income medical practice. Child-report of involvement in peer victimization and pessimism was assessed along with parent-report of HRQoL. 2-year medical service utilization was extracted from medical records. Results Although not all hypotheses were supported, victims and aggressors were found to be at increased risk for certain poor health outcomes, which were exacerbated by high levels of pessimism. Conclusion Findings expand on research into peer victimization and health and provide important implications for identification, prevention, and intervention strategies with at-risk youth.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor II Receptor-Mediated Intracellular Retention of Cathepsin B Is Essential for Transformation of Endothelial Cells by Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is the pathological agent of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), a tumor characterized by aberrant proliferation of endothelial-cell-derived spindle cells. Since in many cancers tumorigenesis is associated with an increase in the activity of the cathepsin family, we studied the role of cathepsins in KS using an in vitro model of KSHV-mediated endothelial cell transformation. Small-molecule inhibitors and small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting CTSB, but not other cathepsins, inhibited KSHV-induced postconfluent proliferation and the formation of spindle cells and foci of dermal microvascular endothelial cells. Interestingly, neither CTSB mRNA nor CTSB protein levels were induced in endothelial cells latently infected with KSHV. Secretion of CTSB was strongly diminished upon KSHV infection. Increased targeting of CTSB to endosomes was caused by the induction by KSHV of the expression of insulin-like growth factor-II receptor (IGF-IIR), a mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR) that binds to cathepsins. Inhibition of IGF-IIR/M6PR expression by siRNA released CTSB for secretion. In contrast to the increased cathepsin secretion observed in most other tumors, viral inhibition of CTSB secretion via induction of an M6PR is crucial for the transformation of endothelial cells.
Nonprofit Boards: Crucibles of Expertise or Symbols of Local Identities?

Nonprofit boards, as boundary spanners, often serve the institutional purpose of afford- ing legitimacy to organizations. Neo-institutional theory suggests that nonprofit organi- zations, as particularly susceptible to legitimacy demands of changing environments, would tend toward rationalizing internal structures. This article, using historical panel data, explores the extent of one form of rationalization, recruiting trustees with college education and/or professional or managerial occupations. It finds that trustees with col- lege education, managers, and professionals continue to have significant representation on nonprofit boards. Also, many boards are increasingly less exclusive with respect to gender, race, and religion. Some select nonprofit boards, however, continue to be domi- nated by different gender, racial, and religious identities, suggesting that nonprofit boards also serve the purpose of representing different identity and/or interest groups in the community.
Regulation of arterial diameter and wall [Ca2+] in cerebral arteries of rat by membrane potential and intravascular pressure

1. The regulation of intracellular [Ca2+] in the smooth muscle cells in the wall of small pressurized cerebral arteries (100-200 micron) of rat was studied using simultaneous digital fluorescence video imaging of arterial diameter and wall [Ca2+], combined with microelectrode measurements of arterial membrane potential. 2. Elevation of intravascular pressure (from 10 to 100 mmHg) caused a membrane depolarization from -63 +/- 1 to -36 +/- 2 mV, increased arterial wall [Ca2+] from 119 +/- 10 to 245 +/- 9 nM, and constricted the arteries from 208 +/- 10 micron (fully dilated, Ca2+ free) to 116 +/- 7 micron or by 45 % ('myogenic tone'). 3. Pressure-induced increases in arterial wall [Ca2+] and vasoconstriction were blocked by inhibitors of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (diltiazem and nisoldipine) or to the same extent by removal of external Ca2+. 4. At a steady pressure (i.e. under isobaric conditions at 60 mmHg), the membrane potential was stable at -45 +/- 1 mV, intracellular [Ca2+] was 190 +/- 10 nM, and arteries were constricted by 41 % (to 115 +/- 7 micron from 196 +/- 8 micron fully dilated). Under this condition of -45 +/- 5 mV at 60 mmHg, the voltage sensitivity of wall [Ca2+] and diameter were 7.5 nM mV-1 and 7.5 micron mV-1, respectively, resulting in a Ca2+ sensitivity of diameter of 1 mum nM-1. 5. Membrane potential depolarization from -58 to -23 mV caused pressurized arteries (to 60 mmHg) to constrict over their entire working range, i.e. from maximally dilated to constricted. This depolarization was associated with an elevation of arterial wall [Ca2+] from 124 +/- 7 to 347 +/- 12 nM. These increases in arterial wall [Ca2+] and vasoconstriction were blocked by L-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel inhibitors. 6. The relationship between arterial wall [Ca2+] and membrane potential was not significantly different under isobaric (60 mmHg) and non-isobaric conditions (10-100 mmHg), suggesting that intravascular pressure regulates arterial wall [Ca2+] through changes in membrane potential. 7. The results are consistent with the idea that intravascular pressure causes membrane potential depolarization, which opens voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, acting as 'voltage sensors', thus increasing Ca2+ entry and arterial wall [Ca2+], which leads to vasoconstriction.
The demise of Joshua according to Josephus

This article focuses on Josephus’ account of the end of Joshua in his Ant. 5.115-119. It offers a detailed comparison between that account and its biblical source (Jos 23-24) on the one hand, and two other postbiblical narrations of Joshua’s demise, that is those of Pseudo-Philo in Liber Antiquitatum Biblicarum 23-24 and the “Samaritan Chronicle No. II,” on the other. As compared with Joshua 23-24, Josephus’ version appears highly abbreviated, leaving aside, for example, the whole of Joshua 23 as well as 24:1628, 31-32, even while also introducing various new elements. Josephus shares his non-reproduction of Joshua 23 and 24:31-32 with Pseudo-Philo and the Chronicle, for example, but deviates from these other witnesses in his downplaying of the role/activities of the dying Joshua.
Heterogeneity in brain reactivity to pleasant and food cues: evidence of sign-tracking in humans

Aberrant brain reward responses to food-related cues are an implied characteristic of human obesity; yet, findings are inconsistent. To explain these inconsistencies, we aimed to uncover endophenotypes associated with heterogeneity in attributing incentive salience to food cues in the context of other emotionally salient cues; a phenomenon described as sign- vs goal tracking in preclinical models. Data from 64 lean and 88 obese adults who were 35.5 ± 9.4 years old and predominantly women (79%) were analyzed. Participants viewed food-related, pleasant, neutral and unpleasant images while recording electroencephalograph. Late positive potentials were used to assess incentive salience attributed to the visual stimuli. Eating and affective traits were also assessed. Findings demonstrated that obese individuals, in general, do not demonstrate aberrant brain reward responses to food-related cues. As hypothesized, latent profile analysis of the late positive potential uncovered two distinct groups. 'Sign-trackers' showed greater responses to food-related cues (P < 0.001) but lower responses to pleasant stimuli (P < 0.001) compared with 'goal-trackers'. There were proportionally more obese than lean 'sign-trackers' (P = 0.03). Obese 'sign-trackers' reported significantly higher levels of emotional eating and food craving (P < 0.001). By examining the heterogeneity in brain reactivity to various emotional stimuli, this translational study highlights the need to consider important neurobehavioral endophenotypes of obesity.
Endothelial-like cells from the bovine placental cotyledon.

Abstract A cell-line was established from bovine placental cotyledon. When cultured in M199 with 10% fetal bovine serum, this cell-line had a doubling time of about 18 h. With immunohistochemistry, it was demonstrated that this cell-line expressed vimentin and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). While both molecules are expressed in endothelial cells, ACE is usually considered to be a specific marker for endothelial cells. Furthermore, cells were shown to take up Dil-Ac-LDL (acetylated low-density lipoprotein labeled with 1,1′-dioctadecyl-3,3,3′-tetramethylindo-carbocyanine perchlorate). This characteristic feature has been used to identify endothelial cells. Finally, when cultured on matrigel, this cell-line formed tube-like structures similar to those formed by endothelial cells. Tube-formation on matrigel is a physiological property specific to endothelial cells. In conclusion, these three lines of evidence strongly suggest that this cell-line is endothelial cell in nature. Further studies using an en...
A Review of “Libraries for Users: Services in Academic Libraries”

In this book, Luisa Alvite and Leticia Barrionuevo describe a number of contemporary academic library services and resources and provide practical guidelines on how to implement, market, and assess...
Towards Improving Sustainability in Nags Head, North Carolina Through Increasing Social Capital

Maintaining bodies of knowledge specific to coastal towns can be crucial to maintaining environmental sustainability. It can build relationships of trust while generating social norms and rules about how to interact with the surrounding environment. This report explores the disintegration of social capital in Nags Head, North Carolina over time and how improving the transfer of local knowledge in the town can help to generate sustainable growth in the future. The researchers interviewed past residents of the town to gather information about how people used to interact with the environment in order to compare it to the present. Nine resources were explored; this report focuses on the resource of knowledge and its transfer.
Long-term outcomes in coarctation of the aorta: an evolving story of success and new challenges

Individuals with coarctation of the aorta have historically had poor long-term outcomes with a mean life expectancy of 35 years. Natural history studies demonstrated 90% of individuals dying before age 50 years. Over the past several decades, improvements in prenatal diagnosis, paediatric cardiac surgery, intensive care and adult congenital care have led to a robust success story with the majority of adults living to older ages. The Heart article by Choudhary et al 1 studies the modern day adult coarctation population and defines a new trajectory for longevity. Although reintervention appears to be inevitable in many cases, with late complications including recoarctation, aneurysm development and cardiovascular death, the overall population demonstrates improved outcomes in those who reach adolescence with very good long-term survival to age 60 years. Despite this optimistic outlook, the authors recognise that atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and cerebrovascular events comprise the majority of late morbidity and mortality. The observed deaths were primarily sequelae of acute or chronic hypertension; however, the only identified predictor of hypertension was late repair. Until we are able to better risk stratify which individuals are at the greatest risk for hypertension and late adverse events, adult and paediatric cardiologists must be vigilant with all patients including those with repaired coarctation regarding aggressive primary prevention of ASCVD. In coarctation of the aorta, hypertension, endothelial dysfunction and increased aortic stiffness contribute to subsequent development of premature coronary artery disease and diastolic heart failure. It is likely that these factors are significantly interrelated in their aetiology and therefore …
Small Animal Preference Testing: Machine Design and Technique

Quantitative studies of the behavior of mites and other small arthropods have several technical drawbacks. Two most frequently encountered are the confinement of animals during an experiment and difficulty with experimental manipulations. Presented below is a new design for a 2-choice preference chamber that solves these problems. I have used them to characterize some aspects of host discrimination by a parasitic mite.[3][1] The design minimizes machine biases, and the chambers may have wide application in the study of other small arthropods. [1]: #fn-2
Doping and the Fermi Energy in Amorphous Silicon

The doping of hydrogenated amorphous silicon is discussed within the context of Mott's $8\ensuremath{-}N$ rule, and found to have properties distinctly different from dopants in crystalline silicon. A unifying description of dopant and defect states based on the position of the Fermi energy is given. Some possible consequences of the $8\ensuremath{-}N$ rule for the deposition and structure of $a$-Si: H are also discussed.
Homogeneous photocatalytic hydrogen production using π-conjugated platinum(II) arylacetylide sensitizers.

Three platinum(II) terpyridylacetylide charge-transfer complexes possessing a lone ancillary ligand systematically varied in phenylacetylide π-conjugation length, [Pt(tBu3tpy)([C≡CC6H4]nH)]ClO4 (n = 1−3), are evaluated as photosensitizers (PSs) for visible-light-driven (λ > 420 nm) hydrogen production in the presence of a cobaloxime catalyst and the sacrificial electron donor triethanolamine (TEOA). Excited-state reductive quenching of the PS by TEOA produces PS− (kq scales with the driving force as 1 > 2 > 3), enabling thermal electron transfer to the cobalt catalyst. The initial H2 evolution is directly proportional to the incident photon flux and visible-light harvesting capacity of the sensitizer, 3 > 2 > 1. The combined data suggest that PSs exhibiting attenuated bimolecular reductive quenching constants with respect to the diffusion limit can overcome this deficiency through improved light absorption in homogeneous H2-evolving compositions.
Incloodle: Evaluating an Interactive Application for Young Children with Mixed Abilities

Every child should have an equal opportunity to learn, play, and participate in his or her life. In this work, we investigate how interactive technology design features support children with and without disabilities with inclusion during play. We developed four versions of Incloodle, a two-player picture-taking tablet application, designed to be inclusive of children with different abilities and needs. Each version of the application varied in (1) whether or not it enforced co-operation between children; and in (2) whether it prompted interactions through in-app characters or more basic instructions. A laboratory study revealed technology-enforced cooperation was helpful for child pairs who needed scaffolding, but character-based prompting had little effect on children's experiences. We provide an empirical evaluation of interactive technology for inclusive play and offer guidance for designing technology that facilitates inclusive play between young neurotypical and neurodiverse children.
Safe storage of maize in alternative hermetic containers

Abstract Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags have been developed and extended as a way to address grain storage issues faced by smallholder farmers in developing nations. A hermetic technology, PICS bags reduce insect damage to grain significantly while maintaining its quality for many months or longer. Farmers with varying and often small volumes of grain at harvest, may still benefit from alternatives to PICS bags for storing their grain. We evaluated plastic bottles, which may be hermetically sealed, for storing maize grain. Clean maize grain was stored for eight months in sealed and unsealed plastic bottles with half of these bottles being infested by maize weevil (Sitophilus zemais, Motschulsky). Oxygen levels in the bottles were monitored throughout the trial and grain was assessed for moisture content, insect damage, germination rate and insect population size when the study was terminated. Sealed bottles preserved grain quality significantly better than unsealed, infested bottles and as well as non-infested unsealed containers. Plastic soda bottles can be used as hermetic containers for safely storing grain.
Determination of Histone Acetylation Status by Chromatin Immunoprecipitation

Histone acetylation is the most studied posttranslation modification of nucleosomes. Understanding the mechanisms involved in global and promoter-specific histone acetylation will shed light on the control of transcriptional regulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation is a powerful technique to study protein-DNA interactions in vivo. Proteins and DNA are cross-linked with formaldehyde, cells are lysed, and DNA is sheared by sonication. Protein-DNA complexes are immunoprecipitated with antibodies specific for total and acetylated histones and the relative occupancy of acetylated and total histones at selected loci is assessed by real-time PCR of the purified DNA.
Cold Chain - Vaccine Stability

Immunization is a way to trigger immune system and prevent serious, life-threatening diseases. In 1974, the WHO launched its “Expanded program of immunization” (EPI) against six most common preventable diseases (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis and measles. Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases can be controlled only by provision of potent vaccine from the place of manufacturing to actual vaccination site only through the maintenance of “Cold Chain” Knowledge of a vaccine’s stability especially of the rate of loss of characteristics that make it safe and effective, with time of exposure to temperatures outside of the 2-8°C range, can help immunization managers better run the immunization programme effectively.
Letter by Taqueti and Bhatt Regarding Article, “Impact of Optimal Medical Therapy in the Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Study”

We read with interest the study by Resor et al1 evaluating the impact of optimal medical therapy (OMT) in the DAPT study (Dual Antiplatelet Therapy), which demonstrated that thienopyridine therapy extended between 12 and 30 months in patients after coronary artery stenting resulted in lower rates of myocardial infarction, major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, and bleeding events in patients on compared with off OMT. As the authors note, although the associations with lower rates of myocardial infarction and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events were expected, the association with bleeding was not. The authors should be commended for evaluating the impact of OMT on the treatment effect—both ischemic and …
Precarious welfare states: Urban struggles over housing delivery in post-apartheid South Africa

This article demonstrates how popular struggles over housing distribution lead to the transformation of the welfare state. In post-apartheid South Africa, municipal governments distribute free, for...
A comparison of individual-based genetic distance metrics for landscape genetics

A major aim of landscape genetics is to understand how landscapes resist gene flow and thereby influence population genetic structure. An empirical understanding of this process provides a wealth of information that can be used to guide conservation and management of species in fragmented landscapes and also to predict how landscape change may affect population viability. Statistical approaches to infer the true model among competing alternatives are based on the strength of the relationship between pairwise genetic distances and landscape distances among sampled individuals in a population. A variety of methods have been devised to quantify individual genetic distances, but no study has yet compared their relative performance when used for model selection in landscape genetics. In this study, we used population genetic simulations to assess the accuracy of 16 individual-based genetic distance metrics under varying sample sizes and degree of population genetic structure. We found most metrics performed well when sample size and genetic structure was high. However, it was much more challenging to infer the true model when sample size and genetic structure was low. Under these conditions, we found genetic distance metrics based on principal components analysis were the most accurate (although several other metrics performed similarly), but only when they were derived from multiple principal components axes (the optimal number varied depending on the degree of population genetic structure). Our results provide guidance for which genetic distance metrics maximize model selection accuracy and thereby better inform conservation and management decisions based upon landscape genetic analysis.