cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Changing information technology and information technology management

Abstract Information technology is changing at a rapid rate. A theory has hypothesized that change in IT causes problems for IT managers and that they respond with coping mechanisms to handle these problems. Structured interviews with 16 IT professionals at different organizations identified 31 unique projects that used 86 new ITs which caused 142 problems. Eleven categories summarized the problems. The most common were training demands, vendor oversell, acquisition dilemmas, new integration, support burden, vendor neglect, and resistance. The eleven categories also summarized the coping mechanisms applied to these problems. The most common of these were education and training, inaction, internal support, vendor support, new procedures, and persuasion. This research provides practicing IT managers with alternative perspectives on the problems and a variety of coping mechanisms from which to choose. It also provides suggestions for future researchers.
Spontaneous resolution of racemic camphorates in the formation of three-dimensional metal-organic frameworks.

Reported here is a rare example of enantioselective processes between organic racemic ligands (dl-camphorates) with in situ formed chiral metal complexes. Such enantioselectivity leads to a double spontaneous resolution of two pairs of distinctly different racemates [the ΛΔ-Zn(Htea) units and the dl-camphorate ligands] into two chiral three-dimensional frameworks containing only one enantiommeric form from each racemate. This work demonstrates unique enantioselectivity in the self-assembly of metal−organic frameworks containing multiple chiral features, which points to a new avenue for the preparation of chiral framework materials and for the resolution of racemates.
Algorithms for the minimization of setups and tool changes in “simply fixturable” components in milling

Abstract Fixture planning is a complex task and has been a major stumbling block in the development of efficient automated planning systems. However, the recent emergence of universal fixturing techniques has provided hardware solutions to problems previously handled through software. These techniques permit the workpiece to be immobilized in any given orientation regardless of its shape. Components in which fixturing concerns can be ignored during planning are referred to as “simply fixturable”. In simply fixturable components, the entire space of feasible plans can be captured in a single unified graph-theoretic representation. In this paper, a robust graph-theoretic model of planning is presented along with a new hierarchical prioritization of the objectives in planning. This permits efficient yet comprehensive searches for near-optimal plans that minimize multiple objectives. Algorithms are presented for selecting the access faces for features, minimizing the number of setups, minimizing the number of tool changes, and merging setup plans with preferable squaring routines. An attempt is made to maintain theoretical soundness in these algorithms so that a variety of situations can be handled gracefully.
Integration of liquid crystal elastomer photomechanical optical devices

Azobenzene dye-doped liquid crystal elastomers (LCE) are known to give strong photomechanical responses. We review photothermal heating actuated Photomechanical Optical Devices (PODs) and applications to systems by examining successful attempts at cascading macroscopic PODs in a series configuration. Using these results, we present some new design strategies that have the potential of miniaturizing these systems with increases in the response time and system integration.
Application of artificial neural networks in interactive simulation

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) show promising capabilities in interactive simulation. In this article, the literature on ANNs and their applications to simulation methodology is reviewed and several recommendations to their implementation are presented. Also, the creation of a manufacturing library consisting of basic ANN modules that can be used to represent complex manufacturing processes is discussed.
Impact of protease inhibitors on the outcome of human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients with chronic diarrhea.

Impact of protease inhibitors on the outcome of human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients with chronic diarrhea
Video capsule endoscopy to prospectively assess small bowel injury with celecoxib, naproxen plus omeprazole, and placebo

Background & Aims: Data indicate that cyclooxygenase-2–specific inhibitors cause less gastroduodenal mucosal damage than nonspecific NSAIDS, but their effects on the small bowel mucosa are less well recognized. In a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with video capsule endoscopy (VCE) we prospectively evaluated the incidence of small bowel injury in healthy subjects treated with celecoxib compared to naproxen plus omeprazole. Methods: We randomly assigned subjects with normal baseline VCEs to celecoxib 200 mg twice daily (n = 120), naproxen 500 mg twice daily plus omeprazole 20 mg once daily (n = 118), or placebo (n = 118) for 2 weeks. The primary end point was the mean number of small bowel mucosal breaks per subject. Results: Baseline VCE found small bowel lesions in 13.8% (57/413) of screened subjects, who became ineligible for randomization. The mean number of small bowel mucosal breaks per subject and the percentage of subjects with these mucosal breaks were 2.99 ± 0.51, 55% for naproxen/omeprazole compared to 0.32 ± 0.10, 16% for celecoxib and 0.11 ± 0.04, 7% for placebo ( P P = .04). Conclusions: Among healthy subjects with lesion-free baseline VCEs, celecoxib was associated with significantly fewer small bowel mucosal breaks than naproxen plus omeprazole. This study also showed that the background incidence of small bowel lesions in healthy adults is not insignificant and should be considered in future trials with VCE.
Effects of S-Nitrosation on Oxygen Binding by Normal and Sickle Cell Hemoglobin

S-Nitrosated hemoglobin (SNO-Hb) is of interest because of the allosteric control of NO delivery from SNO-Hb made possible by the conformational differences between the R- and T-states of Hb. To better understand SNO-Hb, the oxygen binding properties of S-nitrosated forms of normal and sickle cell Hb were investigated. Spectral assays and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry were used to quantify the degree of S-nitrosation. Hb A(0) and unpolymerized Hb S exhibit similar shifts toward their R-state conformations in response to S-nitrosation, with increased oxygen affinity and decreased cooperativity. Responses to 2, 3-diphosphoglycerate were unaltered, indicating regional changes in the deoxy structure of SNO-Hb that accommodate NO adduction. A cycle of deoxygenation/reoxygenation does not cause loss of NO or appreciable heme oxidation. There is, however, appreciable loss of NO and heme oxidation when oxygen-binding experiments are carried out in the presence of glutathione. These results indicate that the in vivo stability of SNO-Hb and its associated vasoactivity depend on the abundance of thiols and other factors that influence transnitrosation reactions. The increased oxygen affinity and R-state character that result from S-nitrosation of Hb S would be expected to decrease its polymerization and thereby lessen the associated symptoms of sickle cell disease.
Industrial Composting of Poly(Lactic Acid) Bottles

In order to better understand the end of life scenario potential of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) packaging to reduce waste through composting when properly disposed, this study aimed to determine the rate at which 473 mL (16 oz) PLA bottles with and without associated high density polyethylene (HDPE) caps and polypropylene (PP) labels decomposed in an industrial compost pile. Temperature, moisture content, and pH levels of the compost pile were recorded throughout the study to determine their effects on the rate of decomposition and to ensure optimal conditions were met. Analyses performed at weeks 2, 4, and 8 showed that from week 2, a 94 % reduction of mass and weight average molecular weight occurred, along with a complete loss of structural integrity. PLA bottles without caps and labels were considered to be decomposed completely by week 4, while the bottles with the HDPE caps and PP labels showed plastic residues until week 8. The caps and labels acted as a barrier that slowed the rate of biodegradation. This study showed that PLA bottles can be composted in industrial composting facilities in 30–45 days, and it is recommended to remove all caps and labels. The results further indicated that if a proper infrastructure is put in place to allow large scale composting of PLA, this packaging polymer could have a significant impact on reducing municipal solid waste.
A Triangular Copper(I) Complex Displaying Allosteric Cooperativity in Its Electrochemical Behavior and a Mixed-Valence Cu(I)-Cu(I)-Cu(II) State with Unusual Temperature-Dependent Behavior.

Reaction of the tris-chelating hexadentate podand ligand tris[3-(2-pyridyl)pyrazol-1-yl]hydroborate (TpPy) with [Cu(MeCN)4][PF6] affords [CuI3(TpPy)2][PF6] (1), which was crystallographically characterized. 1·(MeCN)2: C52H44B2Cu3F6N20P, orthorhombic, Pna21; a = 24.592(7), b = 16.392(5), c = 13.365(5) A; Z = 4. Each Cu(I) ion is four coordinated by one N,N ‘-bidentate arm from each ligand; each ligand therefore donates each bidentate arm to a different Cu(I) ion. The isosceles triangular arrangement of Cu(I) ions with N-donor ligands is reminiscent of the tricopper(I) site of ascorbate oxidase. One-electron oxidation of 1 affords the CuI2CuII complex [Cu3(TpPy)2][PF6]2 (2). The potentials of the Cu(I)/Cu(II) redox couples are affected by the ease with which the accompanying geometric rearrangement can occur. Thus, the first oxidation of 1 is facile (−0.52 V vs the ferrocene/ferrocenium couple, Fc/Fc+), but as a result of the concomitant structural rearrangement the second oxidation is rendered much more d...
A taxonomy of mobile and pervasive applications

In this paper we present a taxonomy for characterizing pervasive applications. This taxonomy focuses on abstracting application characteristics, independent of the characteristics of the middleware or infrastructure that support the application, and provides a controlled vocabulary for thinking about the application. We provide an informal verification for the taxonomy by using it to categorize a range of pervasive applications, culled from the literature and from projects we are involved in, and showing that the taxonomy is (a) consistent and complete - similar applications are categorized similarly and applications that are different are not similarly categorized and (b) useful - each characteristic provides new information about applications not explained by the other characteristics. Finally, we present concrete uses for the taxonomy.
Occupational stress and work-related upper extremity disorders: concepts and models

Background While research has suggested that interventions targeted at occupational stress (job stress) factors may improve clinical and work outcomes related to work-related musculoskeletal disorders, the emerging hypotheses relating occupational stress to work-related upper extremity disorders (WRUEDs) are not particularly well known among occupational health providers and researchers. Methods Generic job stress and health models and multivariable models of WRUEDs were described and evaluated. Results Models on occupational stress and health/WRUEDs offer unique perspectives on the role of occupational stressors on WRUEDs. However, the limited support for the structure and proposed mechanisms of these models suggest that investigations examining and validating proposed biobehavioral pathways are still needed. Discussion Difficulties in conceptualizing occupational stress have, in the past, hindered its systematic incorporation into occupational health research and prevention/intervention strategies. The present paper provides a common basis for researchers and practitioners with diverse backgrounds to understand job stress and its relation to WRUEDs in order to enhance future efforts. Given the present limitations in the field and the need for comprehensive approaches to WRUEDs, there is great potential for occupational health researchers and clinicians to advance knowledge in this area. Am. J. Ind. Med. 41:298–314, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
How many names for a rose: inconsistent classification of multiple foci of lung cancer due to ambiguous rules

Abstract Objectives Stage classification is important because it allows consistent definition of patient groups, and thus provides a foundation for comparison of outcomes. For patients with multiple pulmonary foci of lung cancer, however, the classification rules are ambiguous and confusing. Materials and methods We surveyed experts and clinicians who regularly evaluate patients with lung cancer to see how similar or different their interpretation of the official stage classification was for such patients. Results We found a great deal of inconsistency in how four clinical scenarios were classified. No method of classification was chosen by a majority when there were more than two choices allowed by the classification rules. In a scenario with pulmonary foci of cancer of different histologic types, 86% classified this as separate primary cancers and 14% as multifocal lung cancer. Conclusion The marked variability in classification must be taken into account when interpreting reported outcomes of patients with multiple pulmonary foci of lung cancer.
Lack of efficacy and cost-effectiveness of drug-eluting stents

The findings of the meta-analysis about the comparative efficacy of drug-eluting stents (DESs) compared with bare-metal stents (BMSs) by Nordmann et al .1 both re-affirm and enhance those observed in previous research. Katritsis et al .2 have also demonstrated the lack of any efficacy superiority of DES over BMS, during the relatively short-term follow-up of between six and 12 months from intervention. Unsurprisingly for a health intervention with questionable clinical efficacy, the cost-effectiveness ratios of the current practice of nearly routine use …
Visual snippet editor

Visual editors play an important part in business application tooling. A rich visual notation was developed for a set of visual editors included as part of integration application development tooling (IBM® Websphere® Integration Developer 6.0).The Visual Snippet Editor includes unique visual notation to help create code snippets. The snippets are laid out automatically by the editor. Some of the distinguishing visual elements are the grouping arrangement, the shape of the terminals and activities, the syntax color, the icons and the appearance of all first class element and their behaviour.
Pain as a stressor: effects of prior nociceptive stimulation on escape responding of rats to thermal stimulation.

In our previous studies, psychological stress was shown to enhance operant escape responding of male and female rats. The stressors that produced hyperalgesia were physical restraint and social defeat. Nociceptive input also elicits stress reactions, generating the prediction that pain would facilitate pain under certain circumstances. For example, the usual method of evaluating stress in laboratory animals is to test for effects after termination of the stressor. Accordingly, operant escape performance of male and female rats was evaluated during two successive trials involving nociceptive thermal stimulation. The intent was to determine whether nociceptive sensitivity differed on first trials and during pain-induced stress on second trials. Compared to a first trial of 44.5 °C stimulation, escape responding increased during a second trial of 44.5 °C stimulation (preceded by an escape trial of 10 °C). Similarly, escape from cold (10 °C) was enhanced when preceded by escapable 44.5 °C stimulation. Thus, prior nociceptive stimulation enhanced escape from aversive thermal stimulation. Facilitation of pain by a preceding pain experience is consistent with stress-induced hyperalgesia and contrasts with other models of pain inhibition by concurrent nociceptive stimulation.
Use of Avagard in pediatric urologic procedures

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the use of Avagard compared with a hand-brush scrub preparation by the urologist in preparation for inpatient and outpatient pediatric urologic operations. Avagard (chlorhexidine gluconate 1% solution and ethyl alcohol 61% wt/wt) is a waterless, brushless, and scrubless hand antiseptic indicated as a replacement for traditional preoperative brush hand scrubbing. Methods We evaluated the first 550 patients for whom we used Avagard as a preoperative hand antiseptic and compared them with the last 550 consecutive patients for whom we performed traditional antiseptic-impregnated hand-brush scrubbing. All patients underwent pediatric urologic procedures. Patients were monitored postoperatively for signs of wound infection, and patients and the surgeon were monitored for side effects. A cost analysis was performed to compare the use of Avagard as a preoperative hand preparation with that of an antiseptic-impregnated hand-brush. Results The incidence of wound infection was one in the Avagard group and two in the hand-scrub group, not a statistically significant difference. All wound infections were successfully treated with a single course of oral antibiotics without any long-term sequelae. No side effects for the patients or surgeon were noted, including skin irritations or allergic reactions in either group. The use of Avagard was more time efficient and cost effective. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that Avagard is a fast, effective, easy to apply, and safe surgical hand preparation for pediatric urologic surgery. Its use is cost effective, as well as time efficient, in relation to the traditional surgical scrub.
Modeling colliding beams with an element by element representation of the storage ring guide field

(Received 9 May 2005; published 26 January 2006)A detailed model of the Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR) guide ﬁeld, including beam-beaminteraction computed in the weak-strong regime, is the basis for a multiturn simulation of luminosity. Thesimulation reproduces the dependence of luminosity on bunch current that is measured in the storage ring,at both high-energy (5
Effects of the Sex Steroid Hormones and Vitamin D3 on Calcium-Binding Proteins in the Chick Shell Gland

The effects of diethylstilbestrol (DES), progesterone, testosterone and vitamin 03, alone or in various combinations, on the calcium-binding protein (CaBP) concentration, wet weight and histology of the shell gland were investigated in 7.5-10-week-old chicks. Chicks, which were either vitamin D deficient or vitamin D replete, were pretreated with DES to differentiate the shell gland. DES administration was then discontinued for 10 days and then chicks were treated with the hormones to be tested. In this secondary treatment period, DES increased the levels of CaBP (measured using a specific radioimmunodiffusion assay) in both vitamin D deficient and vitamin D replete chicks, suggesting an effect of DES on CaBP largely independent of vitamin 0. Progesterone alone had no effect on CaBP levels, but it inhibited the DES stimulated increase in CaBP in every case tested. In contrast to this antagonism of CaBP level, the increases in shell gland wet weight and hypertrophy of the tubular gland cells induced by DES were not inhibited by concomitant progesterone administration. Vitamin D3 alone did not increase CaBP concentration in the shell gland and, when administered with DES to vitamin D deficient chicks, it elicited little if any increase in CaBP level above that evoked by DES alone. Testosterone had little effect on CaBP level in the shell gland. Despite chronic injections with estrogen, however, the maximum concentration of CaBP induced in the DES-differentiated shell gland was only one-sixth the concentration found in the shell gland of the egg laying hen. These results indicate that CaBP, which is found in numerous organs, may be regulated by factors in addition to vitamin D3, the predominant regulator in the intestine, and that estrogen and progesterone may play important roles in modulation of CaBP concentration in the shell gland of the hen.
Landscape evolution degrades the geologic signature of past glaciations

Glaciers on land leave behind characteristic landforms and bedrock topography. The spatial extent of this signature and dating of the erosional and depositional features has led to a good understanding of temporal and spatial shifts of past glaciers and climate. At best the landscape contains considerable information on past glacial processes in the form of moraines and other depositional landforms. However, evidence suggests that all unconsolidated landforms degrade, manifested in the general degradation and smoothing of the topography over time. To determine the relative amount and pattern of degradation on glacial moraines we use a well-documented moraine degradation model that uses both local slope and a proportionality constant to determine the diamicton transport rate. This formulation results in diffusion type topographic smearing and smoothing of the initially angular topographic features. More specifically, diamicton is eroded at the crest of a moraine, transported downhill, and deposited on the gentler lower flank. Collectively this produces moraine cross-profiles that closely resemble observations in the field. By assuming an initial constant boulder frequency per unit volume of the diamicton, the model tracks the surface lowering and the related exhumation of boulders to the moraine surface. This produces a tightly constrained set of testable predictions: (1) modelled moraine cross-profile; (2) modelled spatial pattern of surface boulders (no boulders on the lower flank); and (3) relative frequency of surface boulders (smallest frequency of surface boulders at the inflection point, highest frequency at the crest). These characteristics were measured in the field of alpine, tropical, and Antarctic moraines. The correspondence between model predictions and field data is remarkably good, and strongly supports our understanding of the time dependent evolution of glacial landscapes. These results highlight the evolving nature of glacial landforms and indicate the complete removal of original moraine surfaces and postglacial emergence of spatial pattern in boulder frequency.
Differences in oral temperature and body shape in two populations with different propensities for obesity.

OBJECTIVE Body temperature is a function of heat production and heat dissipation. Substantial interindividual variability has been reported in healthy humans. We hypothesized that Pima Indians, a population with a high prevalence of abdominal obesity, may have a lower surface area relative to volume, that is, lower radiating area, and therefore a higher body temperature compared to Caucasians. METHODS Body composition, including volume (hydrodensitometry), and oral temperature were assessed in 69 nondiabetic Caucasian [age, 30 +/- 7 years; body fat, 21 +/- 8% (mean +/- SD)] and 115 Pima Indian males [age, 27 +/- 6 years; body fat, 28 +/- 6%]. Surface area was estimated from height, weight, and waist circumference (Bouchard's equation). In 47 Pima Indians, measures of insulin sensitivity (M, hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp) were available. RESULTS Compared to Caucasians, Pima Indians had a higher oral temperature [36.4 +/- 0.3 degrees C vs. 36.3 +/- 0.3 degrees C (mean +/- SD), p < 0.04] and lower surface area relative to volume (2.19 +/- 0.05 vs. 2.23 +/- 0.26 m(2), p < 0.0001). Surface area relative to volume was negatively correlated with oral temperature (r = -0.14, p < 0.05), but in a multiple linear regression model it did not entirely explain the ethnic difference in oral temperature. Oral temperature was inversely correlated with M (r = -0.28, p < 0.05). Conclusions-Pima Indians have higher oral temperature and lower surface area relative to volume than Caucasians. The ethnic difference in temperature does not seem to be entirely explained by differences in body composition and body shape. Interestingly, higher oral temperature was associated with insulin resistance, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
The Role of Institutional Motivations in Technological Adoption: Implementation of DeKalb County's Family Technology Resource Centers

The Family Technology Resource Centers (FTRC) Program consists of 14 community technology centers operated by the DeKalb County School System (DCSS) in Atlanta, GA. The model program is an outreach and technology diffusion initiative developed and maintained by the DCSS to encourage the use and awareness of information and communication technologies (ICTs) by underserved populations. A narrative assessment was generated using a qualitative approach based on researchers' direct observations of day-to-day operations, interviews conducted with key stakeholders, and review and analysis of official internal and external documents detailing program elements. The FTRC's successful efforts are tied to a combination of an environment "suitable" for change, the participation and "buy-in" of key stakeholders with a shared set of objectives, and the ability of key change agents both internally and externally to draw upon resources to "leverage" a digital divide policy initiative.
To have and to have not [techno-haves and have-nots]

Since PCs and other digital innovations are the fastest growing industries in the country, they are the main factor of growth in the higher income occupations. In other words, the wages for techno-have-nots are lower than the wages of the techno-haves. This gap has widened in the last two decades due to the diffusion of advanced information technology. Every year the techno-haves come out better. That adds up over a lifetime. In the background are issues about the quality of life. The techno-haves may wash dishes during the summer break from college, but many techno-have-nots never get jobs outside the kitchen. The techno-haves may change the oil in their cars if they have the time, but the techno-have-nots might do it to earn money. In short, the techno-haves get access to better opportunities. While this is no guarantee for a better life-existence is far too uncertain for that-it is an advantage year after year. The birth of the PC did not start these divisions. It is just this era's flashpoint. In previous generations the flashpoints involved access to transportation (cars and trains), telephones (at work or at home), and other modern goods.
Modular Design of Cys-loop Ligand-gated Ion Channels: Functional 5-HT3 and GABA ρ1 Receptors Lacking the Large Cytoplasmic M3M4 Loop

Cys-loop receptor neurotransmitter-gated ion channels are pentameric assemblies of subunits that contain three domains: extracellular, transmembrane, and intracellular. The extracellular domain forms the agonist binding site. The transmembrane domain forms the ion channel. The cytoplasmic domain is involved in trafficking, localization, and modulation by cytoplasmic second messenger systems but its role in channel assembly and function is poorly understood and little is known about its structure. The intracellular domain is formed by the large (>100 residues) loop between the α-helical M3 and M4 transmembrane segments. Putative prokaryotic Cys-loop homologues lack a large M3M4 loop. We replaced the complete M3M4 loop (115 amino acids) in the 5-hydroxytryptamine type 3A (5-HT3A) subunit with a heptapeptide from the prokaryotic homologue from Gloeobacter violaceus. The macroscopic electrophysiological and pharmacological characteristics of the homomeric 5-HT3A-glvM3M4 receptors were comparable to 5-HT3A wild type. The channels remained cation-selective but the 5-HT3A-glvM3M4 single channel conductance was 43.5 pS as compared with the subpicosiemens wild-type conductance. Coexpression of hRIC-3, a protein that modulates expression of 5-HT3 and acetylcholine receptors, significantly attenuated 5-HT–induced currents with wild-type 5-HT3A but not 5-HT3A-glvM3M4 receptors. A similar deletion of the M3M4 loop in the anion-selective GABA-ρ1 receptor yielded functional, GABA-activated, anion-selective channels. These results imply that the M3M4 loop is not essential for receptor assembly and function and suggest that the cytoplasmic domain may fold as an independent module from the transmembrane and extracellular domains.
Does pecking at inanimate stimuli predict cannibalistic behaviour in domestic fowl

We assessed the pecking behaviour of caged White Leghorn hens towards feather-shaped stimuli varying in colour (red or blue), material (paper or feather) and movement (stationary or movable) attached to a board placed in the feed trough. Each of the eight stimulus combinations was presented to two replicate groups of 5 young hens for 15 min at 45 and 57 days of age. We predicted that the birds would be especially attracted to red movable feathers simulating a live bird with bloodstained feathers. Severe (forceful) pecks were directed more frequently at feather than paper stimuli (P<0.05) and at movable than stationary stimuli (P<0.01) but there was no differential response to red and blue stimuli. We reassessed responses to the stimuli by a subset of the original birds, now in 16 groups of four hens, at 696 and 710 days of age. We found no significant effects of colour, material or movement on the latency to peck the stimuli, or the frequency of gentle and severe pecks at the stimuli, indicating that responses to the stimulus characteristics were not consistent between young and old hens. There was a positive correlation between the frequency of severe feather pecking at flock mates and the frequency of cannibalistic behaviour (P<0.01), consistent with reports that bleeding resulting from feather pecking can lead to cannibalism. We found no significant correlation between the frequency of pecking at the inanimate stimuli and the frequencies of pecking at the flesh and feathers of flock mates. This analysis does not take into account possible behavioural differences between primary cannibals that drew blood and secondary cannibals that joined a cannibalistic attack once blood had been drawn. We conclude that the frequency of pecking at inanimate stimuli was not a good predictor of future cannibalistic behaviour by the hens in this study. However, a tendency for future cannibals and severe feather peckers to have longer latencies to peck the inanimate stimuli warrants further investigation. It will be possible to use responses to specific types of inanimate stimuli to predict cannibalistic tendencies only if future cannibals are found to have stable responses to those stimuli over time.
Transplantation directs oocyte maturation from embryonic stem cells and provides a therapeutic strategy for female infertility

Ten to 15% of couples are infertile, with the most common causes being linked to the production of few or no oocytes or sperm. Yet, our understanding of human germ cell development is poor, at least in part due to the inaccessibility of early stages to genetic and developmental studies. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) provide an in vitro system to study oocyte development and potentially treat female infertility. However, most studies of ESC differentiation to oocytes have not documented fundamental properties of endogenous development, making it difficult to determine the physiologic relevance of differentiated germ cells. Here, we sought to establish fundamental parameters of oocyte development during ESC differentiation to explore suitability for basic developmental genetic applications using the mouse as a model prior to translating to the human system. We demonstrate a timeline of definitive germ cell differentiation from ESCs in vitro that initially parallels endogenous oocyte development in vivo by single-cell expression profiling and analysis of functional milestones including responsiveness to defined maturation media, shared genetic requirement of Dazl, and entry into meiosis. However, ESC-derived oocyte maturation ultimately fails in vitro. To overcome this obstacle, we transplant ESC-derived oocytes into an ovarian niche to direct their functional maturation and, thereby, present rigorous evidence of oocyte physiologic relevance and a potential therapeutic strategy for infertility.
Dietary and plasma levels of carotenoids, vitamin E, and vitamin C in a group of young and middle-aged nonsupplemented women and men

Abstract The objective of the study was to examine the relationship between dietary intake and plasma concentrations of carotenoids, tocopherols, and vitamin C in young to middle-aged nonsupplemented women and men as well as evaluate their vitamin E and vitamin C status. Subjects included young (19–24 y) and middle-aged (25–50 y) men and women. The four age x gender groups had similar dietary intakes of β-carotene, α-carotene, cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein, vitamin E, and vitamin C. These four groups also had similar plasma β-carotene, cryptoxanthin, lycopene, α-tocopherol, and vitamin C concentrations. The percentage of each group having low (
Calibration procedure developed for IR surface-temperature measurements

Obtaining infrared (IR) surface-temperature measurements of miniature square targets on the order of 1.6 mm with a spatial resolution of 15 mu m has recently become possible using the Barnes Engineering Computherm system, but the accuracy and precision of the measurements have been limited. The objective of the present work is to provide a calibration procedure that will improve the accuracy and precision of the two-dimensional temperature measurement. A method of measuring surface temperatures on semiconductor surfaces using subminiature syringe thermocouples to remove the emissivity calculation error is described. Accuracy is further improved by numerically removing the estimated system distortion from the radiance scan image. The precision of the IR microscope is improved by averaging scans to minimize the random noise. Investigations into defining and correcting the distortions and noise have improved the accuracy on precisely controlled black-body sources to +or-0.025 degrees C and the precision to +or-0.03 degrees C. >
Altering culture conditions reveals strain-related differences in activity and immunoreactive isoforms of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-isomerase in mouse Leydig cells

Abstract We previously reported that 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-isomerase (3βHSD) activity is higher in Leydig cells from C57BL 6J mice than those from C3H HeJ mice. This study examines whether the differences in 3βHSD activity in Leydig cells from the two strains of mice are due to the expression of different 3βHSD isoforms and if a specific isoform corresponds with the amount of 3βHSD activity under various culture conditions. Leydig cells were plated in Waymouth's + 15% horse serum (HS) medium. Some culture were terminated 24 h later after plating (day 1) and assayed for 3βHSD activity or immunoreactivity. The remaining cultures were maintained in HS or changed to serum-free medium. We demonstrate for the first time that two 3βHSD immunoreactive isoforms are expressed in freshly isolated Leydig cells and those cultured for 1 day. The same two 3βHSD isoforms are detectable in both strains. Thus, the previously reported strain-related differences in 3βHSD activity are not due to the expression of different isoforms. When cultured for 8 days, the higher molecular weight 3βHSD immunoreactive band is no longer detectable in Leydig cells from either strain. When maintained in HS, 3βHSD activity in C57BL 6J Leydig cells decreases significantly by day 8, while 3βHSD activity in C3H HeJ Leydig cells does not change through day 8. When Leydig cells were cultured in serum-free medium, 3βHSD activity is maintained in cultured Leydig cells from C57BL 6J and significantly increases in C3H HeJ 3βHSD by day 8. These data suggest that HS has a strain-specific inhibitory effect on 3βHSD activity, causing a significant decrease in C57BL 6J 3βHSD activity and preventing an increase in C3H HeJ . Densitometric analysis reveals a correspondence between changes in 3βHSD activity and the lower molecular weight isoform but not the higher molecular weight isoform. Treatment with cAMP induces the immunoreactive mass of the lower molecular isoform but not the higher molecular isoform of 3βHSD. Currently, it is unclear what the function of the higher molecular weight 3βHSD isoform is in mouse Leydig cells.
TOXIC EPIDERMAL NECROLYSIS

1coined the term necrolysis to describe four clinical cases characterised pathologically by necrosis of the epidermis, and clinically by widespread epidermolysis—a loosening of the epidermis leading to blister formation, exfoliation, or both. Large sheets of skin had peeled off, leaving a raw, denuded base. A short-lived febrile toxic reaction, associated with a scalded appearance of the skin, preceded the epidermal necrolysis. Lyell named this syndrome toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and postulated that a circulating toxin specifically damaged the epidermis. Since Lyell’s report, progress has been made in clarifying the nature of this disorder. It is now thought that TEN is almost always a severe drug-induced reaction. However, uncertainties and controversies remain in the definition and classification of TEN, the causes of the disorder, and appropriate therapy. Classification Lyell’s initial report included two distinct entities in the description of TEN—the staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome and what is now accepted as TEN. 2
Photoaffinity labeling of the beta-adrenergic receptor from cultured lymphoma cells with [125I]iodoazidobenzylpindolol: loss of the label with desensitization

Abstract The beta-adrenergic antagonist [125I]iodoazidobenzylpindolol ( [125I]IABP) specifically photolabeled two polypeptides in membrane preparations from wild-type (WT) and coupling protein-deficient cyc- cultured lymphoma cells. The molecular weights of the two polypeptides determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were 65,000 and 55,000. They were labeled in a ratio of approximately 1:1. Pretreatment of intact WT or cyc- cells with 1.0 microM epinephrine for 15 min (desensitization) resulted in a greater loss of the 55,000 Mr polypeptide (40-60%) relative to the 65,000 Mr peptide (10-30% loss). An 18- to 24-hr pretreatment of WT cells with terbutaline (down-regulation) led to a greater than 90% reduction of the photolabeling of both polypeptides, whereas a similar pretreatment of cyc- cells resulted in no further loss of labeled receptor than that observed after only a 15-min pretreatment with epinephrine. There was no indication of a change in the electrophoretic mobility of the [125I]IABP-labeled receptors after either short- or long-term agonist pretreatment. These data provide direct evidence for heterogeneity of the beta-adrenergic receptor in lymphoma cells. The differential loss of the [125I]IABP labeling in the two polypeptides suggests a functional heterogeneity as well.
`Bible Babble': Naming the Interactional Trouble at Waco

Outside Waco, Texas, on 19 April 1993, a 51-day standoff between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and David Koresh and the Branch Davidians concluded with a devastating fire. Despite the f...
Toward a Greater Understanding of the Willingness to Request an Accommodation: Can Requesters' Beliefs Disable the Americans with Disabilities Act?

Although the Americans with Disabilities Act requires most employers to provide reasonable accommodation, there is reason to believe that people with disabilities are often unwilling to make such requests. We therefore focus on factors influencing the requester's likelihood of seeking an accommodation. By drawing upon the theories of planned behavior, help-seeking, and distributive justice, we propose a framework identifying several salient beliefs that may influence request likelihood and then explore the role of select situational characteristics in shaping these beliefs as a way to more fully understand the requester's assessment process.
B Lymphocyte–Specific Loss of Ric-8A Results in a Gα Protein Deficit and Severe Humoral Immunodeficiency

Resistance to inhibitors of cholinesterase 8A (Ric-8A) is a highly evolutionarily conserved cytosolic protein initially identified in Caenorhabditis elegans , where it was assigned a regulatory role in asymmetric cell divisions. It functions as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Gα i , Gα q , and Gα 12/13 and as a molecular chaperone required for the initial association of nascent Gα subunits with cellular membranes in embryonic stem cell lines. To test its role in hematopoiesis and B lymphocytes specifically, we generated ric8 fl/fl vav1-cre and ric8 fl/fl mb1 - cre mice. The major hematopoietic cell lineages developed in the ric8 fl/fl vav1-cre mice, notwithstanding severe reduction in Gα i2/3, Gα q , and Gα 13 proteins. B lymphocyte–specific loss of Ric-8A did not compromise bone marrow B lymphopoiesis, but splenic marginal zone B cell development failed, and B cells underpopulated lymphoid organs. The ric8 fl/fl mb1 - cre B cells exhibited poor responses to chemokines, abnormal trafficking, improper in situ positioning, and loss of polarity components during B cell differentiation. The ric8 fl/fl mb1 - cre mice had a severely disrupted lymphoid architecture and poor primary and secondary Ab responses. In B lymphocytes, Ric-8A is essential for normal Gα protein levels and is required for B cell differentiation, trafficking, and Ab responses.
An algorithm and data structure for 3D object synthesis using surface patch intersections

There are several successful systems that provide algorithms that allow for the intersection of polygonal objects or other primitive shapes to create more complex objects. Our intent is to provide similar algorithms for intersecting surface patches. There have been contributions to this concept at the display algorithm level, that is, computing the intersection at the time the frame is generated. In an animation environment, however, it becomes important to incorporate the intersection in the data generation routines, in order that those parts of the intersected object that never contribute to an image are not processed by the display algorithm. This only increases the complexity of the object unnecessarily, and subsequently puts an additional burden on the display algorithms.An algorithm is described which uses a modified Catmull recursive subdivision scheme to find the space curve which is the intersection of two bicubic patches. An associated data structure is discussed which incorporates this curve of intersection in the patch description in a way suitable for efficient display of the intersected object. Sample output of these intersections are shown which serve to illustrate the capabilities and limitations of the described procedures.
Using an IR Network in a Robotic Competition Class

The interdisciplinary sophomore design course - EGR 286 - utilizes design teams as part of an engineering design learning process. This course constrains a robotic project to using only LEGOreg devices and the Robotic Command eXplorer (RCX). The instructors have observed that students greatly improve their interest in the design process if a main component is robotic competition events. Therefore, we have developed an infra-red (IR) network which enables inter-robot communications independent of position and orientation and allows the student teams to partially control the robots during multi-team competitions. A "satellite" RCX is established over the demonstration arena; its purpose is to receive and send signals from the competing teams' RCX systems and control network synchronization. The controlling software was developed using the public domain programming language, "NQCcopy". We present the advantages and limitations of this network environment, in the context of one design competition, entitled "capture the flag"
Genetic toxicology testing of the antimalarial drugs chloroquine and a new analog, AQ-13.

AQ-13 ([N1-(7-chloro-quinolin-4yl)-3-(N3,N3-diethylamino)propylamine] dihydrochloride trihydrate) is an aminoquinoline antimalarial drug that is effective against chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. It is structurally similar to the widely used chloroquine diphosphate (CQ). We evaluated these drugs in the three assays currently recommended by the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH): bacterial mutagenesis in Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli, mammalian cell mutagenesis in L5178Y mouse lymphoma cells, and micronucleus induction in rat bone marrow. A small but statistically significant increase in revertant colonies was produced by CQ with Salmonella tester strain TA98 without metabolic activation (MA) and by AQ-13 with strain TA1537 both with and without MA. In L5178Y cells, testing of CQ and AQ-13 up to cytotoxic concentrations with and without MA produced no increase in mutant colonies and no increase in the numbers of small colonies. Slight decreases in the ratio of polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE) to red blood cells (RBC) were observed in male and female rats treated with CQ and in females only treated with AQ-13; however, none of these changes was statistically significant. No increases in the frequency of micronucleated PCE were observed at any dose level of CQ or AQ-13. Although both CQ and AQ-13 showed weak bacterial mutagenicity, this mutagenic effect was not confirmed in either the mouse lymphoma mutagenesis assay or the micronucleus assay. These results indicate that CQ and AQ-13 should pose minimal risk of genotoxic damage in human populations being administered these drugs.
Cognitive development in VCFS

Abstract The 22q11.2 microdeletion (velocardiofacial syndrome, VCFS) results in a complex pattern of psychoeducational and neurocognitive deficits. Mean full-scale IQ scores are in the range of borderline intellectual function, but academic achievement scores are generally in the low–normal range. A dichotomy is often found between higher Verbal IQ scores and lower Performance IQ, paralleled by relative strength in Reading and Spelling, but weakness in Math. Language skills are also typically delayed and remain impaired later in life, and psychiatric disorders can be found in both children and adults with the syndrome. On-going neurocognitive research suggests that the impairment in mathematical ability may be associated with poor visual–spatial skills. This would be consistent with theoretical models that link arithmetic skills with visual attention and spatially referenced representations of magnitude. Neuroimaging investigations indicate that these skills may all depend critically on the inferior parietal lobes, and lead to our hypothesis that these may be dysfunctional in the 22q11.2 syndrome. Early reports find no association between cognitive ability in the syndrome and the presence of cardiac malformations.
20-HETE increases superoxide production and activates NAPDH oxidase in pulmonary artery endothelial cells.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) signal vital physiological processes including cell growth, angiogenesis, contraction, and relaxation of vascular smooth muscle. Because cytochrome P-450 family 4 (CYP...