cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Social Support Moderates the Association Between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Treatment Duration and Treatment Outcomes in Telemedicine-Based Treatment Among Rural Veterans

For patients participating in trauma-focused psychotherapies for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as cognitive processing therapy (CPT), pretreatment characteristics may moderate treatment effectiveness. For instance, preexisting supportive relationships may encourage skill utilization or provide contrasts to maladaptive cognitive biases highlighted in trauma-focused treatments for PTSD. Such pretreatment characteristics are important to study in rural individuals, who may experience barriers to initiating and completing treatment. The aim of this study was to examine whether pretreatment social support, measured using the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey, would moderate the association between CPT duration (i.e., number of sessions attended) and change in PTSD symptoms, using data from a pragmatic randomized controlled trial of a telemedicine-based collaborative care intervention for rural veterans (N = 225). Social support moderated the association between CPT duration and PTSD symptom change, B = -0.016, SE = -.006; 95% CI [-0.028, -0.005], such that increased duration was associated with more PTSD symptom change only at average or higher levels of support. This effect was found for overall and emotional support but not tangible support. Additionally, on average, among participants who attended eight or more CPT sessions, only those at or above 1 standard deviation above the mean social support score demonstrated a reliable change in PTSD symptoms. The results indicate that the link between CPT treatment duration and treatment outcomes may be stronger for veterans with higher levels of pretreatment social support.
Artificial Retina: A Future Cellular-Resolution Brain-Machine Interface

Brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) of the future will be used to treat diverse neurological disorders and augment human capabilities. However, to realize this futuristic promise will require a major leap forward in how electronic devices interact with the nervous system. Current BMIs provide coarse communication with the target neural circuitry, because they fail to respect its cellular and cell-type specificity. Instead, they indiscriminately activate or record many cells at the same time and provide only partial restoration of lost abilities. A future BMI that may pave the path forward is an artificial retina—a device that can restore vision to people blinded by retinal degeneration. Because the retina is relatively well understood and easily accessible, it is an ideal neural circuit in which to develop a BMI that can approach or exceed the performance of the biological circuitry. This chapter summarizes the basic neuroscience of vision, identifies the requirements for an effective retinal interface, and describes some of the necessary circuits and systems. Based on these ideas and the lessons from first-generation retinal prostheses, a novel neuroengineering approach is proposed: the first BMI that will interact with neural circuitry at cellular and cell-type resolution.
Ellen Grass Lecture: Wellness for Allied Healthcare Professionals in the Age of COVID-19.

The last six weeks have seen tremendous upheaval in the lives of most Americans, upheaval whose conclusion and effects are difficult to predict. Perhaps no other group has felt the impact of COVID-...
Social Isolation and Loneliness in the Hearing‐Impaired Pediatric Population: A Scoping Review

Objective To review existing publications in order to evaluate the effect of hearing loss on social isolation and loneliness in the pediatric population. Methods Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines were followed. Eight databases were searched. Studies were independently screened and analyzed by two reviewers. Publications were included if pediatric hearing-impaired individuals and social isolation or loneliness were studied. Discrepancies were resolved by a team of five reviewers. Results Thirty-three studies were included in this review. Sixty percent of studies (12/20) found that hearing loss was related to loneliness and 64.7% found that children with hearing loss experienced more social isolation (11/17). The Asher Loneliness and Dissatisfaction Questionnaire was commonly used to assess loneliness. No commonly used tool for assessing social isolation was found. Six articles found that school type was not associated with loneliness. Difficulty communicating was the most mentioned factor leading to loneliness and social isolation. Frequent recommendations to improve social integration included facilitating interactions with the hearing-impaired and educating the nonhearing-impaired to normalize the disability. Conclusion The majority of studies found that hearing impairment results in a higher prevalence of social isolation and loneliness. However, an association cannot be definitively claimed due to the lack of uniform assessment tools. This review emphasizes the need for standardized methods to assess loneliness and social isolation and highlights methods to improve social integration for the hearing impaired. Laryngoscope, 131:1869-1875, 2021.
More Than Politics: How Personality Trait and Media Technology Use Affect Vote Likelihood During the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election:

Considerable work has been devoted to studying voter behavior in U.S. presidential elections by analyzing their political participation and attitude toward political advertising. Less is known abou...
How We Prevent and Treat Delirium in the ICU.

Delirium is a serious and complex problem facing critically ill patients, their families, and the health care system. When delirium develops, it is associated with prolonged hospital stays, increased costs, and long-term cognitive impairment in many patients. This article uses a clinical case to discuss our approach to delirium prevention and treatment in the ICU. We believe that an effective strategy to combat delirium requires implementation and adherence to a pain and sedation protocol as part of bundled care, use of a validated tool to detect delirium when present, and a focus on nonpharmacologic care strategies, including reorientation, early mobility, and incorporating family into care when possible. At present, the evidence does not support the routine administration of medications to prevent or treat delirium. A pharmacologic approach may be needed for agitated delirium, and we discuss our evaluation of the evidence for and against particular medications. Although delirium can be a distressing problem, there is evidence that it can be addressed through careful attention to prevention, detection, and minimizing the long-term impact on patients and their families.
Bombesin receptors in GtoPdb v.2021.2

Mammalian bombesin (Bn) receptors comprise 3 subtypes: BB1, BB2, BB3 (nomenclature recommended by the NC-IUPHAR Subcommittee on bombesin receptors, [115]). BB1 and BB2 are activated by the endogenous ligands neuromedin B (NMB), gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), and GRP-(18-27). bombesin is a tetra-decapeptide, originally derived from amphibians. The three Bn receptor subtypes couple primarily to the Gq/11 and G12/13 family of G proteins [115]. Each of these receptors is widely distributed in the CNS and peripheral tissues [78, 115, 249, 278, 237, 362]. Activation of BB1 and BB2 receptors causes a wide range of physiological/pathophysiogical actions, including the stimulation of normal and neoplastic tissue growth, smooth-muscle contraction, gastrointestinal motility, feeding behavior, secretion and many central nervous system effects including regulation of circadian rhythm, body temperature control, sighing and mediation of pruritus [149, 202, 244, 115, 196, 249, 306, 68, 34, 332]. A physiological role for the BB3 receptor has yet to be fully defined although recently studies suggest an important role in glucose and insulin regulation, metabolic homeostasis, feeding, regulation of body temperature, obesity, diabetes mellitus and growth of normal/neoplastic tissues [148, 78, 162, 214, 346, 200]. Bn receptors are one of the most frequently overexpressed receptors in cancers and are receiving increased attention for their roles in tumor growth, as well as for tumour imaging and for receptor targeted cytotoxicity [202, 276, 8, 161].
Basic Concepts in the Oral Directions of Group Achievement Tests.

AbstractThe teacher’s oral directions of primary group achievement tests were analyzed for the presence of Boehm’s basic concepts. The California Achievement Test, Iowa Test of Basic Skills, Metropolitan Achievement Tests, and Stanford Diagnostic Reading Test were all found to include numerous basic concepts in their directions. Because first graders and, to a lesser extent, second graders have difficulty mastering basic concepts, the construct validity of subtests assessing skills other than language was questioned. Implications of the results for teacher administration of primary level tests as well as suggestions for future test construction were described.
Regional differences in agricultural profitability, government payments, and farmland values: Implications of DuPont expansion

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to use the DuPont expansion to examine those factors underlying differences in (rates of) return on different crop portfolios over space (ten regions) and time (1960‐2004). The paper also estimates the impact of government payments on farmland values through its impact on farm profitability.Design/methodology/approach – Businesses use the DuPont model to analyze the profitability of a business. This model includes three components: net profit margin, asset turnover, and financial leverage (or assets to equity). It is based on the relationships among these three components and is expressed as a product of ratios. For the purposes of the current study, accrued capital gains from (total) returns are excluded to focus on cash returns “cash flow”. Returns from current income are a “cash flow” available in the short run to pay financial obligations. Furthermore, returns from capital gains are not liquid; they are gains in wealth fully captured as capital gains/losses only ...
Accumulation of pre-tRNA splicing '2/3' intermediates in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutant.

In an effort to identify genes involved in the excision of tRNA introns in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, temperature-sensitive mutants were screened for intracellular accumulation of intron-containing tRNA precursors by RNA hybridization analysis. In one mutant, tRNA splicing intermediates consisting of the 5' exon covalently joined to the intron ('2/3' pre-tRNA molecules) were detected in addition to unspliced precursors. The mutant cleaves pre-tRNA(Phe) in vitro at the 3' exon/intron splice site, generating the 3' half molecule and 2/3 intermediate. The 5' half molecule and intron are not produced, indicating that cleavage at the 5' splice site is suppressed. This partial splicing activity co-purifies with tRNA endonuclease throughout several chromatographic steps. Surprisingly, the splicing defect does not appreciably affect cell growth at normal or elevated temperatures, but does confer a pseudo cold-sensitive phenotype of retarded growth at 15 degrees C. The mutant falls into the complementation group SEN2 previously defined by the isolation of mutants defective for tRNA splicing in vitro [Winey, M. and Culbertson, M.R. (1988) Genetics, 118, 609-617], although its phenotypes are distinct from those of the previous sen2 isolates. The distinguishing genetic and biochemical properties of this new allele, designated sen2-3, suggests the direct participation of the SEN2 gene product in tRNA endonuclease function.
Process Variables, Dielectric Properties, and Microstructures of Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors with Ni Internal Electrodes

The dielectric properties, dopant distributions, and microstructures of BaTiO 3 -based MLCCs sintered in H 2 /N 2 /H 2 O atmospheres with P O2 =10 -7.5 Pa (BMX-7.5) and P O2 =10 -9.5 Pa (BMX-9.5) were studied and the effects of oxygen partial pressures were analyzed. Dielectric measurements showed that BMX-7.5 had a lower dielectric constant at temperatures above 20°C, but a higher dielectric constant at temperatures below 10°C when compared with BMX-9.5. The coexistence of core-shell and core grains was observed in bright field (BF) TEM images in both types of capacitor. Triple point and grain boundary phases were observed more frequently in BMX-9.5 than in BMX-7.5, and EDS point-by-point analysis revealed that these second phases contained high concentrations of dopants such as Si, Y, and Ca. The dopant concentration in the shell regions in BMX-7.5 was higher than that in BMX-9.5. Smeared and twisted grain boundaries with fringes observed in both types of MLCC indicated that the shell regions in both samples were formed by either the diffusion of foreign ions into BaTiO 3 or crystallization of grain boundary and triple point liquid phases. It was deduced that the partial pressure of oxygen in the sintering atmosphere influenced the microstructures, dopant distributions and core-shell ratios of the grains in these materials.
Soluble Protein Expression in Bacteria

This article summarizes methods for increasing the fraction of recombinant proteins expressed in a soluble form in the cytoplasmic fraction of bacteria. Many recombinant proteins, when expressed at very high levels in bacteria, form insoluble aggregates called inclusion bodies (IBs). Growth conditions can be manipulated to keep protein in a soluble form, including lowering the temperature during induction, choice of host strain and expression vector, or coculturing of proteins that assist in folding. Higher yields can be obtained by mutating the protein or fusing it with various linkers (which can also improve purification by enhancing column chromatography interactions). Eliminating protease or RNase recognition sites can stabilize the protein or mRNA, as can mutations that improve recognition by cofactors that assist in folding. Methodology to simultaneously produce many different recombinant proteins in a soluble form has been developed as part of the structural genomics initiative; these can also be used to for scanning mutagenesis studies. High density bacterial cultivation can be used to produce gram per liter quantities of recombinant proteins at the industrial scale. However, maintaining high levels of soluble protein requires optimizing all aspects of growth, ranging from how the inoculum is stored, to medium details and bacterial harvesting and lysis. Keywords: Bacillus subtilis; Escherichia coli; cold shock vectors; high density cultivation; proteolysis; secretion; temperature effect
Mechanism of self-assembly of tobacco mosaic virus protein. I. Nucleation-controlled kinetics of polymerization.

Abstract The polymerization of tobacco mosaic virus protein has been found to proceed through metastable states under conditions where initially one of the two polymerization-linked protons is bound. These metastable polymers have been characterized and are found to be helical rods, which resemble the structure of equilibrium helical rods that form when both polymerization-linked protons are bound. At pH 6.5 and 20 °C the true equilibrium distribution of these helical rods has been shown to consist of sedimenting species that are much smaller, 24 to 34 S, than described previously, 100 to 200 S. The larger, non-equilibrium rods are produced by an overshoot in polymerization that results from the slow formation of 20 S nuclei followed by a very rapid elongation reaction. Generally, this sequence of rate processes is sensitive to the rate at which a reaction is initiated. In the present case it is the rate of heating or the rate of change of the pH that determines the reaction path and therefore the rate of attainment of equilibrium. In addition to the formation of metastable helical rods during polymerization overshoot, metastable 20 S aggregates can form when either equilibrium or non-equilibrium helical rods are depolymerized by cooling to 5 to 7 °C at pH 6.5. These 20 S aggregates are presumably two-turn disks or helices and can serve as nuclei for helical rod formation in subsequent polymerization reactions. Both helical rod and 20 S metastability are extremely sensitive to pH but, under carefully controlled conditions, the metastability is quite reproducible and reproducible nucleation-controlled polymerization kinetics can be observed even when polymerization-depolymerization cycling is carried out between branches of a hysteresis loop. Temperature- or pH-induced polymerization of tobacco mosaic virus protein can be made to proceed by the slow formation of 20 S, two-turn helix, nuclei followed by the rapid addition of one or more species comprising the 4 S protein. These results confirm a previously proposed kinetic mechanism for the non-equilibrium polymerization reaction (Scheele & Schuster, 1974).
Ip/mpls over otn over dwdm multilayer networks: optimization models, algorithms, and analyses

Over the past decade, multilayer network design has received significant attention in the scientific literature. However, the explicit modeling of IP/MPLS over OTN over DWDM in which the OTN layer is specifically considered has not been addressed before. This multilayer network architecture has been identified as promising that bridges integration and interaction between the IP and optical layers. In this dissertation, we consider four related problems. First, we present an integrated capacity network optimization model for the operational planning of such multilayer networks. The model considers the OTN layer as a distinct layer with its unique technological ODU sublayer constraints. Secondly, we present a design model to investigate the correlation effects of the IP and OTN layers when the physical DWDM layer capacity is a given constant. We also develop a heuristic algorithm to solve the models for large networks. We provide comprehensive numeric studies that consider various cost parameter values of each layer in the network and analyze the impact of varying the values on network layers and overall network cost. We have observed the significant impact of the IP/MPLS capacity module on each layer and the entire network. Generally, when this parameter size is above the average demand in the network, it leads to the best overall network design. Thirdly, we consider the problem of optimizing node capacity in this architecture as our design goal, since routers with more capacity and complex structure consume significant power. We present an explicit networking optimization model that aims to minimize the total capacity at the LSRs and the OXCs. Our assessment shows that the different weight ratios of LSR to OXC nodes do not generally affect the overall required capacity of each layer. However, the weight ratios influence differently required node capacity at nodes in each layer. Finally, we factor in the survivability of the multilayer network by considering a suitable protection mechanism for each network layer. We provide a phase-based heuristic approach, study and analysis. We have also examined the network design from cost vs. protection capacity perspectives while varying the size of the IP/MPLS capacity module.
Fatty acid modulation of K+ channels in taste receptor cells: gustatory cues for dietary fat

In an attempt to determine the chemosensory cues, if any, provided by fats in the oral cavity, we have performed patch-clamp recordings on isolated rat taste receptor cells during application of free fatty acids. Cis-polyunsaturated fatty acids, when applied extracellularly, inhibit delayed-rectifying K+ channels. In a subset of cells, these fatty acids also enhance inwardly rectifying K+ currents. Saturated, monounsaturated, and trans-polyunsaturated fatty acids have no significant effect on K+ currents. These effects do not involve activation of G protein-mediated pathways, including protein kinase C and protein kinase A, lipoxygenase pathways, cyclooxygenase pathways, or cytochrome P-450 pathways, consistent with direct effects on these ion channels or closely associated proteins. The net effect of fatty acids is to prolong stimulus-induced depolarizations of taste receptor cells, and we propose the effects on K+ channels represent the mechanism by which fats are detected by receptor cells in the oral cavity.
Why Is Impaired Sexual Function Distressing to Women? The Primacy of Pleasure in Female Sexual Dysfunction

Introduction Recent research has highlighted a complex association between female sexual function and subjective distress regarding sexual activity. These findings are difficult to explain given limited knowledge as to the mechanisms through which impaired sexual function causes distress.
An integrated MEMS vacuum diode

MEMS processing technologies have been used to create a wide variety of devices, including photonic crystals and microfluidic structures. These methodologies were adapted to fabricate an in situ vacuum sealed cold-cathode diode. Cathodes were formed from arrays of tungsten-clad silicon tips. Tungsten anodes, separated by a sacrificial film, were fabricated above each tip, within a vacuum microcavity. Initial test data are consistent with Fowler-Nordheim behavior, with an on/off current ratio of nearly 7 decades in forward bias.
Robustness of least distances estimate in ultivariate linear models

In this paper, the robustness of the least distances (LD) estimate in multivariate linear models, as defined by Bai, Chen, Miao and Rao (1990), is discussed in terms of the influence function as well as the breakdown point. The LD estimate is shown to be more robust than the least squares (LS) estimate. The robustness of the LD is similar to that of the least absolute deviations (LAD) estimate, a well studied robust estimate in the univariate case. In particular, if there are no outliers in the design matrices, the breakdown point of the LD estimate reaches the highest value, 1/2.
Scholarship Status and Gender Differences in Motivation among U.S. Collegiate Track and Field Athletes

The purpose of the current study was to determine differences in motivation between scholarship and non-scholarship collegiate male and female athletes. Participants (n = 162) were collegiate track and field athletes in the U. S. A. The Sport Motivation Scale (SMS) was used to assess participant's intrinsic and extrinsic motivation as well as amotivation. A 2 x 2 factorial MANOVA was used to determine scholarship status and gender differences. Significant main effects were found for scholarship status (p < .01) and gender (p < .01). A significant interaction effect was found for scholarship status by gender (p < .05). This study further supports cognitive evaluation theory (CET) in understanding sport motivation and results indicate that external rewards are related to lower levels of intrinsic motivation and higher levels of extrinsic motivation and slightly lower levels of amotivation. In addition, the study supports that gender is an important factor to understand motivation among athletes.
The crystallization and melting of copolymers I—The effect of the crystallization temperature upon the apparent melting temperature of polymethylene copolymers

The apparent melting temperatures for a series of polymethylene copolymers were determined as a function of crystallization temperature and level of crystallinity. The copolymers contained from 1·2 to 6·4 mole per cent of either methyl or n -propyl side groups arranged in random sequence distribution. The data could be analysed to yield extrapolated equilibrium melting temperatures by assuming the formation and melting of finite size crystallites. The size of the crystallites is taken to be dependent solely on the crystallization temperature. In accord with the previous observations of Richardson, Flory and Jackson, based on directly observed melting temperatures, it is concluded that at equilibrium the crystalline phase remains pure for n -propyl side group copolymers while solid-solution occurs in the methyl copolymers.
A Cylindrical Sector Driven by Either Water or Air

The cylindrical sector designed by Yuster1 is more compact and simpler in construction than the disk sector. A further development is a cylindrical sector driven by either water or compressed air in place of the usual electrical motor. It is designed to operate in either the water system for cooling the electrode holders, or in the compressed air line circulated from a central location in the laboratory building. The term sector defines the rotating disk or cylinder that controls the gradient of the light illuminating the spectrographic slit. Each gradient desired (step, log function, intensity reduction, etc.) requires a different sector design. A small air turbine driven step sector is described elsewhere.2
Perspective: Chemoprevention of colorectal neoplasia: Translating scientific promise into clinical practice

With more than 145,000 new cases and almost 50,000 deaths each year in men and women combined, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common visceral cancer and the second most common of all fatal cancers in the United States.[1] Colorectal adenomas (CRAs) are benign neoplasms and the precursors to most CRCs,[2] with the serrated adenoma (SA) now recognized as another premalignant lesion, particularly in the proximal (right) colon.[3] CRC prevention has focused on the detection and removal of polypoid neoplasms. However, non-polypoid, flat or depressed colorectal neoplasms are relatively common lesions and have a greater association with carcinoma compared with polypoid neoplasms.[4,5]
Equilibrium Selection in Imperfectly Competitive Economies with Multiple Equilibria

This paper investigates the selection of an equilibrium in an economy with multiple, Pareto-ranked, Nash equilibria. A history-dependent selection criterion is proposed which induces correlated behavior in equilibrium even though agents are playing one-shot games and disturbances are not correlated over time. The model economy may experience prolonged periods in which a low productivity technology is in use and then, as a consequence of a large real disturbance, may switch to an alternative equilibrium in which a high productivity technology is utilized. Thus the model qualitatively matches observations of serially correlated movements in output and employment and generates procyclical productivity though there are no exogenous technology shocks. Copyright 1994 by Royal Economic Society.
Promoting self-management through adherence among heart failure patients discharged from rural hospitals: a study protocol

This is a well-written and well thought-out protocol for an exploratory (or pilot) approach to the use of the PATCH intervention in critical access hospitals. There are just a few additional points of clarification that would further strengthen the paper. During Phase II (post-discharge phone education sessions), what happens if patients cannot be reached? How many attempts are made to reach each patient? At what point of non-contact is the patient excluded from the study? The authors might consider adding a third column to Table 1 – “Data Analysis” which could describe the data analysis procedures used to analyze each variable. In Figure 1, where is the description for “Level 2 Building Knowledge, Skills & Confidence” that matches the other Levels in the figure? I have read this submission. I believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard.
What the Supreme Court Should Do: Save Sentencing Reform, Gut the Guidelines

The legal community has been deeply troubled about the likely outcome of the Supreme Court’s rulings in Booker and Fanfan. Commentators appear to be coalescing around two opposing positions. Both groups expect the decisions to be highly unsatisfying. One group can see no plausible distinction between the sentencing scheme struck down in Blakely and the federal sentencing guidelines. As a result, they expect the Court to find the guidelines unconstitutional, which could mean the end of sentencing reform in America. The second group believes that the Court will decline to overturn the guidelines on pragmatic grounds, fearing the havoc such a decision would cause. This group expects the Court to distinguish the federal system on the grounds that Blakely applies to statutory, but not administrative, sentencing schemes. 1 The problem for this group is that no one seems able to explain why that line is justified, which means the Court will elevate an arbitrary distinction to the level of constitutional significance. Both of these positions share the same basic concern, that no principled distinction can be made between an administrative rulemaking system and a statutory one. In this paper, I argue that this conclusion is mistaken for a simple reason. It fails to recognize that a principled rationale for the Supreme Court’s Apprendi and Blakely decisions can be identified, a rationale that provides a basis for distinguishing the two kinds of sentencing regimes, at least in some circumstances. At the same time, this analysis does not imply that the federal sentencing system necessarily
Distribution of neuronal populations containing neurofilament protein and calcium-binding proteins in the canine neocortex: regional analysis and cell typology

Abstract Neurophysiological experiments in carnivores have revealed the existence of a large number of cortical regions and an organization of sensory systems quite similar to that found in primates. However, the cyto- and chemoarchitecture of the cerebral cortex is relatively poorly known in carnivores. We analyzed the distribution and typology of classes of neurons containing neurofilament protein or the calcium-binding proteins parvalbumin, calbindin, and calretinin in six neocortical regions of the dog. In all these areas, neurofilament protein was present in a subpopulation of medium-to-large size pyramidal neurons predominantly distributed in layers III and V. Parvalbumin was present in a large population of morphologically diverse interneurons. Small ovoid and multipolar neurons were observed throughout the cortical layers, but predominated in layers II and IV. Layers III and V–VI were characterized by the presence of larger and intensely immunoreactivity neurons with bitufted or multipolar morphology, and layers V–VI also contained large multipolar neurons. Calbindin was observed in small round and multipolar interneurons in layer II, and typical double bouquet cells in layer III. Layers IV–VI contained isolated double bouquet cells and large multipolar neurons. A few calbindin-immunoreactive pyramidal neurons were also observed in layer V. Calretinin was localized in bipolar and double bouquet cells in layers II and upper III. The lower part of layer III and layers IV–VI contained rare calretinin-immunoreactive neurons. In some areas, layer III displayed a few large isolated multipolar neurons and pyramidal neurons containing calretinin. In addition, the results show that there is a substantial degree of variability in the distribution of these proteins among cortical regions, and that although they are found in morphologically comparable neuronal types in dog, monkeys, and humans, many difference exist in their regional distribution patterns between carnivores and primates.
Semiprime Skew Group Rings

In this paper we prove that if G is a finite group of automorphisms acting on a semiprime ring R such that R has no additive ] G j-torsion, then the skew group ring R*G is also semiprime. The result was heretofore known in such special cases as when G is finite abelian, R is Goldie, or R satisfies a polynomial identity [I]. Our technique of proof is to show first that (even in the presence of 1 G I- torsion or G possibly infinite) every nonzero ideal in R*G contains a nonzero element whose support consists of inner automorphisms, where inner is used in the sense of Kharchenko [5]. Using this we are able to show that R*G is semiprime provided that R is prime and B*Ginn is semiprime where Glnn is the subgroup of inner automorphisms and B is the algebra of the group in the quotient ring of R with respect to the filter of two-sided ideals. Next we show that indeed B*Ginn is semiprime when R has no additive 1 G j-torsion. Finally, in order to complete the proof, we make a reduction from R semiprime to R prime. Along the way we prove that if G (possibly infinite) is outer and
Wave propagation in a pre-stressed highly elastic body: two exact solutions for Boussinesq problems

Abstract Two problems of wave propagation induced by surface loads in a compressible neo-Hookean half-space, initially at rest under a uniform pre-stress, are considered. One problem concerns a plane-strain situation, the other, one of axial symmetry. An accepted general procedure, that of superposing infinitesimal deformations upon the possibly large deformations due to pre-stress, is carried out completely in terms of tractable exact solutions for both the surface behavior and the full field, and analytical expressions for all wave speeds. The results show that for a tensile pre-stress above a critical value, a negative Poisson effect occurs; for compressive pre-stresses, Rayleigh waves disappear at a critical value. Indeed, all wave speeds in the deformed configuration (effective wave speeds), as well as the solutions, for both problems are clearly sensitive to material properties and to both the magnitude and nature (compressive or tensile) of the pre-stress. In particular, the constraint imposed by plane strain appears to enhance this sensitivity.
Can Computer-Mediated Asynchronous Communication Improve Team Processes and Decision Making? Learning From the Management Literature

Effective communication is critical to most organizational processes, including team collaboration and decision making. Face-to-face communication is commonly assumed to be superior to all other forms of communication, yet face-to-face communication does not cope well with organizational constraints such as time pressure or the geographic distribution of team members. A partial answer in overcoming some of these constraints may be computer-mediated asynchronous communication (CMAC). CMAC enables increased and more equal team member participation, offers flexibility over time and distance, creates time for additional reflection and thought by participants, and archives a permanent record of all discussion. CMAC overcomes some of the drawbacks common to face-to-face communication in some circumstances, thus enhancing organizational communication, team collaboration, and decision-making effectiveness.
Multiple Conformations of the Cytidine Repressor DNA-Binding Domain Coalesce to One upon Recognition of a Specific DNA Surface

The cytidine repressor (CytR) is a member of the LacR family of bacterial repressors with distinct functional features. The Escherichia coli CytR regulon comprises nine operons whose palindromic op...
Isolation of a protease from the cell-free medium of in vitro cultured mammary carcinoma.

Trypsin-like protease with wide spectrum of enzymatic activities have been isolated from cell-free medium from in vitro cultured human mammary carcinoma cells, and from peripheral blood lymphocytes of patients with mammary carcinoma cultured in presence of cell-membrane carcinoma-associated glycoprotein.
CIRCULATING SEROTONIN LEVELS IN PREMATURE INFANTS

We measured serotonin (5HT) levels in platlet-poor plasma (PPP) from premature newborns. 5HT is a neurotransmitter and a powerful vasopressor with specific vascular receptor sites as well as α-adrenergic receptor activity. 5HT is actively taken up and metabolized by the pulmonary vascular endothelium. This specific pulmonary 5HT uptake has been demonstrated in adult humans as well as in fetal and newborn animals. Animal models suggest that the 5HT uptake ability of the lung is greatest in the newborn period. 5HT is present in neuroendocrine cells (NEC) which are most numerous in the lung during the perinatal period, and animal studies suggest that 5HT may be released from NEC in response to alveolar hypoxia. Imbalances in circulating 5HT levels have been associated with changes in vascular hemodynamics. 46 samples (0.2 cc PPP) were obtained from 29 premature newborns (27-36 wks gestation). Samples were taken on days 2-3 and 6-7 of life. 17 of these represent paired serial samples. 5HT levels were measured using a precolumn sample enhancement technique followed by ion exchange HPLC with electrochemical detection. The average 5HT on days 2-3 was 1.67 ± 0.65 ng/ml [mean ± 95% con. limit], and on days 6-7 was 0.74 ± 0.26 ng/ml (P=.03). Moreover, in 16 of 17 paired samples 5HT fell over time (P<.025). 5HT levels did not appear different with respect to gest. age or the need for supplemental O2. We conclude that: 1) PPP 5HT values in premature newborns are low, 2) there is a significant decline in these values over the first week of life, and 3) in contrast with adults and animal models, the presence respiratory distress is not associated with increased PPP 5HT levels.
Azithromycin in the treatment of uncomplicated genital chlamydial infections

Chlamydia trachomatis is among the most prevalent of sexually transmitted diseases and causes serious sequelae, especially in women. A major difficulty facing the clinician has been the effective treatment of patients with chlamydial infections, since existing drugs require 7 or more days of multidose therapy, and hence considerable commitment from the patient. Many patients, especially those who are minimally symptomatic or asymptomatic, are likely to be noncompliant when given such multiple day regimens and thus may fail therapy. Azithromycin is an azalide antibiotic that has a minimum inhibitory concentration against C. trachomatis of between 0.03 and 0.25 mg/L, as well as good in vitro activity against other sexually transmitted pathogens that are often present concurrently. Azithromycin also achieves high intracellular concentrations, which may be beneficial in eradicating Chlamydia, an obligate intracellular pathogen. More importantly, azithromycin has high tissue bioavailability and a tissue half-life of between 2 and 4 days. These pharmacokinetic properties imply that the dosing period for azithromycin can be greatly reduced while still achieving high antimicrobial activity at sites of infection. Clinical experience to date shows that a single 1 g oral dose of azithromycin is as effective as a standard 7-day twice daily regimen of doxycycline and more effective than 7 days of ciprofloxacin in eradicating uncomplicated chlamydial genital infections. As such, azithromycin is the first single-dose therapy for the treatment of urethritis and cervicitis due to C. trachomatis. Single-dose therapy for chlamydial infection, which could be administered under supervision in the clinic, would be a significant advance in the management and public health control of chlamydial infections.
The Effects of Autonomic Drugs on the Concentration of Kallikrein-like Proteases and Cysteine-proteinase Inhibitor (Cystatin) in Rat Whole Saliva

The influence of isoproterenol, phenylephrine, propranolol, and reserpine on the salivary concentration of kallikrein-like proteases and cysteine-proteinase inhibitor (cystatin) was investigated. The protease activities in saliva from treated rats were studied by means of five different chromogenic substrates. In the isoproterenol- and phenylephrine-treated groups, a significant decrease in protease activity was found, compared with the control group. The protease activity of saliva was found to be elevated by about 25-50% after chronic administration of reserpine (0.5 mg/kg). Specific polyclonal antibodies to rat glandular kallikrein and cystatin were utilized to determine the salivary concentrations of these proteins. Results from the use of anti-kallikrein antibodies in Western blot analysis and crossed immuno-electrophoresis indicated that differences observed in the kallikrein-like protease levels of saliva from treated animals were due to altered immunoreactive protein levels. The salivary concentrations of kallikrein and cystatin were measured by direct radio-immunoassays with specific antibodies. The concentration of cystatin in the saliva of normal animals or animals treated with reserpine or propranolol was very low, but was increased about 100-fold in phenylephrine-treated animals and more than 5000-fold in isoproterenol-treated animals. Western blot analysis with antibodies to submandibular gland mucin, glutamine/glutamic-acid-rich protein (GRP), and proline-rich proteins (PRP) were also utilized to compare the effects of autonomic drugs on these salivary proteins. The salivary mucin showed an increase in reactivity and increased mobility in saliva from both isoproterenol- and phenylephrine-treated animals.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Differentiation markers in fetal epidermis: transglutaminase and transpeptidase.

Two members of the transpeptidase family of enzymes, transglutaminase and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase, were assayed histochemically and biochemically in developing rat epidermis from day 15 of gestation through postnatal day 5. Electron microscopic examination of serial skin biopsies enabled precise dating of fetal epidermis and periderm and correlation of ultrastructural details of the cells with marker enzyme activities. Transglutaminase activity appeared histochemically in surface epidermis and in hair follicle inner root sheath on day 18 and day 21 of gestation, respectively, concomitant with the onset of terminal keratinization in these tissues. Enzyme activity was biochemically detectable 2 days before the histochemical stain became positive. Transpeptidase was active in fetal epidermis prior to keratinization but was only detectable in basal cells thereafter. Subsequent to birth, enzyme activity rose geometrically in hair follicles undergoing initial differentiation and was thereafter found in all anagen hairs. Transglutaminase is active only in cells approaching terminal keratinizatiom while transpeptidase is associated with early phases of epidermal proliferation and differentiation.
A Numerical Model of the Formation and Evolution of a Low-Level Jet

Abstract A one-layer. one-dimensional numerical model is described which simulates the life cycle of the extratropical low-level jet (LLJ). The LLJ starts as an isallobaric wind near the point of maximum pressure tall. Subsequently, the LLJ expands over a wide area. Daily variation of wind in the LLJ is attributed to the variation in surface friction.
The Relationship Between Visitor-Based Standards of Quality and Existing Conditions in Parks and Outdoor Recreation

Abstract Parks and related areas are increasingly adopting management-by-objectives/indicator-based frameworks to protect resources and the quality of visitor experiences. Indicator-based frameworks rely on development of indicators and standards of quality, and research has been developed to measure visitor-based standards of quality. In this research approach, visitors to parks and related areas judge the acceptability of a range of recreation-related impacts to natural/cultural resources and the quality of the visitor experience. The purpose of this paper is to explore the strength and variability of the relationship between visitor-based standards of quality and existing conditions in parks and related areas. Data were derived from studies conducted in 11 U.S. national park system units between 1995 and 2002. Results indicated that visitor-based standards of quality are generally unrelated to existing conditions. Implications of these findings are explored for research on visitor-based standards of qu...
The board of directors: beware of those triggers that cause board change.

A majority of director attention has recently been given to the problem of how a director discharges his duty to stockholders and protects himself from legal liabilities. In an effort to show their “due diligence” in exercising the care that “a prudent man would use in the conduct of his own affairs,” directors have begun to place increased emphasis on staying informed of the corporation's health and operations, as well as ensuring that publicly issued documents are accurate representations of the firm's status.
Grafting behavior of n‐butyl acrylate onto poly(butadiene‐co‐styrene) latexes

The radical-induced grafting of n-butyl acrylate (BA) onto poly(butadiene-co-styrene) [(P(Bd-S)] latexes during seeded emulsion polymerization was studied. This P(Bd-S)/PBA rubber/rubber core/shell latex system exhibited unique grafting behavior as compared to other extensively studied rubber/glass core/shell latex systems, such as poly(butadiene-co-styrene)/poly(methyl methacrylate) [P(Bd-S)/PMMA], poly(butadiene-co-styrene)/polystyrene [P(Bd-S)/PS] and poly(butadiene-co-styrene)/poly(acrylonitrile)[P(Bd-S)/PAN]. These composite latexes were characterized by the formation of a highly grafted/crosslinked P(Bd-S)/PBA interphase zone generated during the seeded emulsion polymerization process. Although both of the individual core and shell polymers studied were “soft” themselves, the resulting P(Bd-S)/PBA composite latex particles were found to be rather “hard.” The formation of the interphase zone was studied by using techniques such as solvent extraction, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 65:511–523, 1997
Awareness of Obesity and Weight Issues Among Chronically Mentally 111 Inpatients: A Pilot Study

Obesity in psychotic patients is a subject of increasing scrutiny, but there is a dearth of data regarding awareness about weight related issues among chronic inpatients. To assess this issue state hospital patients voluntarily completed an anonymous questionnaire concerning obesity, weight gain variables, concern about weight, and methods to control weight gain. Sex, age, weight, and height were collected with completed surveys. A total of 128 respondents completed the questionnaire of which 85% were male. Respondents' mean age was 39.8 years, mean BMI 30.84 kg/m2 with 46.6% obese. There was a significant correlation between BMI and awareness of current weight status (p = 0.005), but not between BMI and level of concern about weight among all respondents (p = 0.308) or in the obese subgroup (p = 0.693). Significantly fewer obese patients indicated no weight problem, or no need to control their weight compared to the nonobese (p = 0.004), yet only 10% of obese patients requested to be placed on a mandatory monitored diet. Chronically mentally ill inpatients thus accurately perceive their obesity status, but level of concern does not correlate with BMI, and the obese are reluctant to choose mandatory dieting as a remedy. These findings have significant implications for programmatic measures to control weight gain among chronic inpatients, and for use of atypicals that have a greater propensity to cause weight gain.
Power integral bases for Selmer-like number fields

The Selmer trinomials are the trinomials f(X)∈{Xn−X−1,Xn+X+1|n>1 is an integer} over Z. For these trinomials we show that the ideal C=(f(X),f′(X))Z[X] has height two and contains the linear polynomial (n−1)X+n. We then give several necessary and sufficient conditions for D[X]/(f(X)D[X]) to be a regular ring, where f(X) is an arbitrary polynomial over a Dedekind domain D such that its ideal C has height two and contains a product of primitive linear polynomials. We next specialize to the Selmer-like trinomials bXn+cX+d and bXn+cXn−1+d over D and give several more such necessary and sufficient conditions (among them is that C is a radical ideal). We then specialize to the Selmer trinomials over Z and give quite a few more such conditions (among them is that the discriminant Disc(Xn−X−1)=±(nn−(1−n)n−1) of Xn−X−1 is square-free (respectively Disc(Xn+X+1)=±(nn+(1−n)n−1) of Xn+X+1 is square-free)). Finally, we show that nn+(1−n)n−1 is never square-free when n≡2 (mod 3) and n>2, but, otherwise, both are very often (but not always) square-free.