cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ideology and the stagnation of aoda treatment modalities in america

The disease model of alcoholism was adopted by the American Medical Assoication in 1956, and the intervening 47 years have seen the development of increasingly varied and sophisticated types of evidence for the biological sources of addiction to Alcohol and other drugs of abuse (AODA) . However, a synthesis of 12-step treatment with a confrontational and moralistic version of cognitive psychology remains the modal approach to AODA treatment, despite its inability to even engage many addicts. Simultaneously, the growing evidence for therapies that teach self-regulation of biopsychological processes, which treat clients supportively while encouraging their recognition of the problems and building their desire to change, has been largely ignored by practitioners. The epitome of this self-regulation approach, neurofeedback therapy, has been all but ignored despite reports of high success rates. This paper examines the confluence historical economic and ideological factors that maintain this divergence between...
Lunar theory and processes: Discussion of chemical analysis

Lunar elemental abundances examined by Surveyor project, discussing albedo contrasts, surface rock density, bulk composition, thermal regime and chondritic meteorites
PVT-touch: adapting a reaction time test for touchscreen devices

The Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) is a validated reaction time (RT) test used to assess aspects of sleep loss including alertness and sleepiness. PVT typically requires a physical button to assess RT, which minimizes the effect of execution time (the time taken to perform a gesture) on RT. When translating this application to mobile devices, a touchscreen version is useful for widespread in situ sleepiness assessments to produce more ecologically valid data. We describe the Android-based implementation of a touchscreen version of PVT, called PVT-Touch. In an evaluation (N=20), we compared four different touchscreen input techniques to a physical button: touch down, finger lift, finger tilt, and goal crossing. We found that touch down was comparable to the physical button approach used in traditional PVT in execution time and in several measures associated with sleepiness, and was preferred by most participants. We also found that finger lift may be a more precise but less intuitive measure, which may warrant further study.
RHIC AC dipole design and construction

Two AC dipoles with vertical and horizontal magnetic field have been proposed at RHIC for applications in linear and non-linear beam dynamics and spin manipulations. A magnetic field amplitude of 380 Gm is required to produce a coherent oscillation of 5 times the rms beam size at the top energy. We take the AC dipole frequency to be 1.0% of the revolution frequency away from the betatron frequency. To achieve the strong magnetic field with minimum power loss, an air-core magnet with two seven turn winding of low loss Litz wire resonating at 64 kHz is designed. The system is also designed to allow one to connect the two magnet winding in series to resonate at 37 kHz for the spin manipulation. Measurements of a half length prototype magnet are also presented.
SOIL PATHOGENS AND PRUNUS SEROTINA SEEDLING AND SAPLING GROWTH NEAR CONSPECIFIC TREES

Soil pathogens close to mature Prunus serotina trees reduce the survival of conspecific seedlings. We examined whether the soil community associated withP. serotina trees has continued negative effects on seedling growth. P. serotina seedlings and saplings were harvested after being followed for 1-3 years in the field, and above- and belowground biomasses were measured. Linear regression models including distance to adult P. serotina tree, conspecific seedling density, and seedling age explained 13.9% of the variation in biomass. Distance and age were positively correlated with total biomass, while density was negatively correlated with total biomass. A similar model for saplings established prior to the beginning of the study, and of unknown age, predicted 11.3% of the variation in total biomass, with distance to adult positively correlated with biomass. To separate the effects of distance from density and remove confounding environmental factors, seedlings were grown in the greenhouse at high or low density in soil collected 0-5 m or 25-30 m from adult P. serotina trees. Half of the soil collected at each distance was sterilized by autoclaving. The experiment was repeated in 1998 and 1999, and in both years there was a significant sterilization-by-distance interaction. Sterilization of soil col- lected close to the tree resulted in higher root:shoot ratios, while sterilization of soil collected away from the tree resulted in lower root:shoot ratios. This suggests that soil biota vary with distance to adults and that elimination of soil biota changes plant allocation patterns differentially with distance. Distance-dependent effects of soilborne pathogens may continue beyond seedling mor- tality and suppress juvenile growth. Reduced growth could increase an individual's chance of later mortality, suggesting that initial escape from damping-off pathogens close to pa- rental trees does not ensure longer-term survival.
A Human Factors Database for Matching Human Errors and Technological Interventions

One of the main factors in all aviation accidents is human error. The NASA Aviation Safety Program (AvSP), therefore, has identified several human-factors safety technologies to address this issue. Some technologies directly address human error either by attempting to reduce the occurrence of errors or by mitigating the negative consequences of errors. However, new technologies and system changes may also introduce new error opportunities or even induce different types of errors. Consequently, a thorough understanding of the relationship between error classes and technology “fixes” is crucial for the evaluation of intervention strategies outlined in the AvSP, so that resources can be effectively directed to maximize the benefit to flight safety. The purpose of the present project, therefore, was to examine the repositories of human factors data to identify the possible relationship between different error class and technology intervention strategies. The present paper summarizes our efforts to create a da...
Effect of Feeding Calcium Soaps to Early Postpartum Dairy Cows on Plasma Prostaglandin F2α, Luteinizing Hormone, and Follicular Growth

Multiparous Holstein cows (n = 18) were fed a total mixed ration containing corn silage, corn grain, whole cottonseed, soybean meal, dried distillers grains, and chopped bermudagrass hay (control) or same diet plus Ca salts of long-chain fatty acids (2.2% of diet DM) for the first 60 d postpartum. Predicted energy balance was calculated from DM intake, milk yield and composition, and BW. On d 25 postpartum, cows were injected with 25 mg of prostaglandin F2 alpha and treated for 15 d with an intravaginal device containing 1.9 g progesterone. Profiles of 15-keto-13,14-dihydro-prostaglandin F2 alpha (d 1 to 21) and plasma triglycerides (d 7 to 60) were similar between groups. Average number of follicles, determined by ultrasonography prior to d 25, tended to differ between groups; controls had more 3- to 5-mm and fewer 6- to 9-mm follicles than the group of fat-fed cows. Basal, smoothed mean concentration, and average luteinizing hormone amplitude, determined by 10-min samples for 8 h on d 10, were not significantly different between groups. Increasing predicted energy balance was associated with increased pulse amplitude and diameter of the largest follicle on d 10. During the progesterone treatment period and the postprogesterone treatment estrous cycle, cows fed fat had greater numbers of 3- to 5-mm and greater than 15-mm follicles. In conclusion, feeding fat did not influence 15-keto-13,14-dihydro-prostaglandin F2 alpha or luteinizing hormone dynamics but did alter the average number of follicles within different size classes and the diameter of largest and second largest follicle after progesterone treatment.
Self-tuning through use of inherent conflicts

Analysis of a priori design information often justifies the use of self-tuning of simple, application-specific controller structures. This justification arises from indications that good performance with respect to a primary performance index can be maintained through the slight adjustment of only a few controller parameters. The optimality of this adjustment is often dictated by the level of degraded performance of the system with respect to measurable, secondary performance indices. These multiple, countermanding indices realize a controller tuning conflict with respect to the self-tuning controller parameters. The author describes how a priori knowledge of such an inherent conflict can be used in the design of a sensitivity-based self-tuning mechanism. The proposed design methodology begins with descriptions of the concept of inherent control conflicts, sensitivity-points techniques, and application of integral manifolds and averaging to self-tuning control. The preliminary design tasks entailed in the checking for feasibility of self-tuning, which includes consideration of the input and disturbance spectra are described. Averaged integral manifold computations are then utilized in the design of the pseudosensitivity estimator. An example of the design of a power system stabilizer of a single-machine-to-infinite-bus power system illustrates the application of the design technique. >
Galectin-3 modulates MUC2 mucin expression in human colon cancer cells at the level of transcription via AP-1 activation.

Background & Aims: Galectin-3 and MUC2 intestinal mucin each have been correlated with the malignant behavior of colon cancer cells. Galectin-3 modulates expression of MUC2 protein, but the specific regulatory mechanisms are unknown. This study sought to determine how galectin-3 increases MUC2 expression. Methods: Galectin-3 levels in human colon cancer cells of high and low metastatic ability were manipulated via expression of galectin-3 complementary DNA in sense or antisense orientation. Galectin-3 and MUC2 protein expression were determined by Western analysis and immunocytochemistry. Transient transfections of promoter reporter constructs were used to monitor MUC2 transcription and AP-1 activity. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays, site-directed mutagenesis, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used to monitor the participation of AP-1 in MUC2 transcription. Results: Alterations in galectin-3 levels correlated with both MUC2 protein expression and transcription. By using MUC2 promoter constructs of different lengths, galectin-3 responsiveness was found between 1500 and 2186 bp upstream of the translation start site, a region that contains 1 consensus AP-1 binding site. AP-1 activity paralleled MUC2 transcription in the different cell lines. Mutation in the AP-1 site markedly decreased MUC2 promoter activity, and MUC2 transcription was inhibited by cotransfection with a dominant-negative AP-1 vector. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays, co-immunoprecipitation, and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses suggested an association between galectin-3, c-Jun, and Fra-1 in forming a complex at the AP-1 site on the MUC2 promoter. Conclusions: Galectin-3 up-regulation of MUC2 transcription occurs at the level of transcription through AP-1 activation. This may have important implications for understanding the role of galectin-3 and MUC2 in colon cancer metastasis.
Reply to Hristov et al.: Linking methane emissions inventories with atmospheric observations

Hristov et al. (1) argue that our study “provides a comprehensive, quantitative analysis of anthropogenic methane sources,” but that the conclusion “that US EPA [US Environmental Protection Agency] estimates for livestock methane emissions are grossly underestimated appears to be unsubstantiated by … [a] ‘bottom-up’ approach” outlined in their letter.
Relation Between Stream-Water Quality and Geohydrology During Base-Flow Conditions, Roberts Creek Watershed, Clayton County, Iowa

: An investigation to determine the relation between stream water quality and geohydrology in the Roberts Creek watershed, Clayton County, Iowa, was conducted during selected base-flow periods in 1988–90. Discharge measurements were made and water samples collected for analyses of nutrients and selected herbicides in 19 subbasins along the main stem and tributaries of Roberts Creek. The areal extent of unconsolidated and bedrock units subcropping in each subbasin was quantified. The hydrologic data were correlated statistically with the geologic data to determine relations. Roberts Creek generally gained water and had larger nitrogen concentrations in subbasins in which bess and alluvial material were underlain primarily by low-permeability till and shale units. Roberts Creek generally lost water and had lower nitrate concentrations in subbasins with subcroppmg karstic units. Nitrogen concentrations decreased in streams underlain by the karstic units because the nitrogen removed by biological processes was not replaced by ground-water inflow. Seepage from Roberts Creek to ground water in areas of subcropping karstic carbonate rocks reduced the flow, which reduced the velocity, causing increased residence time of water in the stream. The additional residence time may allow additional time for biological processes to remove nitrogen from solution. There was no significant relation between dissolved orthophosphate or atrazine and the underlying geology.
Dynamic I/O power management in real-time systems with multiple-state I/O devices

Power consumption is now an important design parameter for distributed sensor networks. While dynamic (or software-controlled) power management (DPM) is being increasingly used as an alternative to inflexible hardware solutions, DPM for hard real-time systems has received relatively little attention. In particular, energy-driven I/O device scheduling for real-time systems has received even less attention. We present an online DPM algorithm, which we call multi-state constrained low energy scheduler (MUSCLES), for hard real-time systems. MUSCLES generates a sequence of power states for each multiple-state I/O device while guaranteeing that real-time constraints are not violated. It also minimizes the energy consumed by the I/O devices that are used by a task set. MUSCLES is energy-optimal under the constraint that the start times of the tasks are fixed. We present several realistic case studies to show that MUSCLES reduces energy consumption significantly for real-time systems.
Usefulness of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Data for Estimating Population Parameters

Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data can be used for parameter estimation via maximum likelihood methods as long as the way in which the SNPs were determined is known, so that an appropriate likelihood formula can be constructed. We present such likelihoods for several sampling methods. As a test of these approaches, we consider use of SNPs to estimate the parameter Theta = 4N(e)micro (the scaled product of effective population size and per-site mutation rate), which is related to the branch lengths of the reconstructed genealogy. With infinite amounts of data, ML models using SNP data are expected to produce consistent estimates of Theta. With finite amounts of data the estimates are accurate when Theta is high, but tend to be biased upward when Theta is low. If recombination is present and not allowed for in the analysis, the results are additionally biased upward, but this effect can be removed by incorporating recombination into the analysis. SNPs defined as sites that are polymorphic in the actual sample under consideration (sample SNPs) are somewhat more accurate for estimation of Theta than SNPs defined by their polymorphism in a panel chosen from the same population (panel SNPs). Misrepresenting panel SNPs as sample SNPs leads to large errors in the maximum likelihood estimate of Theta. Researchers collecting SNPs should collect and preserve information about the method of ascertainment so that the data can be accurately analyzed.
A robust, automated alignment concept for robotics

A video-based pose sensor is presented that overcomes some of the common problems with typical robotic pose sensors. The Targeting and Reflective Alignment Concept (TRAC) sensor operates using the optics of reflection. TRAC is a robust sensor capable of both continuous and discrete pose sensing in the presence of a class of disturbance inputs (extraneous lighting). Key features of the sensor are its high sensitivity to orientation error, its decoupled handling of orientation and translation (without calibration transformations), and its ability to provide intuitive feedback to a human operator for tele-operation. The sensor has been shown successful at target tracking with a PUMA manipulator in the laboratory and in automatic positioning of NASA-JSC's Manipulator Development Facility (MDF) telemanipulator arm used for shuttle astronaut training. >
Factors Associated With Self-Reported Elder Mistreatment in Iowa’s Frailest Elders:

The purposes of this study were to determine associated characteristics of community-dwelling older persons, their access to care and social provisions, and self-reported elder abuse, and to assess how having help in completing a questionnaire affected these associations. A questionnaire was mailed to 1,017 randomly selected elders in the Iowa Medicaid Waiver Program. The overall prevalence of self-reported abuse was 20.9%. Fifty-nine percent of respondents had help completing the questionnaire. Abuse was associated with low social provisions, more emergency room visits, being alone, and not having enough money. For those having help completing the questionnaire, abuse was associated with older age, low social provisions, being alone, and not having enough money. For those having no help completing the questionnaire, abuse was associated with depression, being alone, more emergency room visits, and low social provisions. Among community-living elders needing services in their homes, the prevalence of abus...
Inverse Method to Estimate Kinetic Degradation Parameters of Grape Anthocyanins in Wheat Flour Under Simultaneously Changing Temperature and Moisture

Thermal and moisture effects on grape anthocyanin degradation were investigated using solid media to simulate processing at temperatures above 100 degrees C. Grape pomace (anthocyanin source) mixed with wheat pastry flour (1: 3, w/w dry basis) was used in both isothermal and nonisothermal experiments by heating the same mixture at 43% (db) initial moisture in steel cells in an oil bath at 80, 105, and 145 degrees C. To determine the effect of moisture on anthocyanin degradation, the grape pomace-wheat flour mixture was heated isothermally at 80 degrees C at constant moisture contents of 10%, 20%, and 43% (db). Anthocyanin degradation followed a pseudo first-order reaction with moisture. Anthocyanins degraded more rapidly with increasing temperature and moisture. The effects of temperature and moisture on the rate constant were modeled according to the Arrhenius and an exponential relationship, respectively. The nonisothermal reaction rate constant and activation energy (mean +/- standard error) were k(80 degrees C, 43% (db) moisture) = 2.81 x 10(-4)+/- 1.1 x 10(-6) s(-1) and DeltaE = 75273 +/- 197 J/g mol, respectively. The moisture parameter for the exponential model was 4.28 (dry basis moisture content)(-1). One possible application of this study is as a tool to predict the loss of anthocyanins in nutraceutical products containing grape pomace. For example, if the process temperature history and moisture history in an extruded snack fortified with grape pomace is known, the percentage anthocyanin loss can be predicted.
Mechanical properties of patellar tendon allografts subjected to chemical sterilization.

Purpose: We tested the hypothesis that the preimplantation mechanical properties of BioCleanse-treated bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) allografts are not significantly different from those of untreated specimens. Methods: For this controlled laboratory study, specimens were harvested as central third or hemi-BPTB units from both knees of 17 cadaveric tissue donors (11 men and 6 women) aged 19 to 88 years. Donor-matched specimens (20 per group) were randomly assigned to either BioCleanse-treated or untreated control groups. Specimens were subjected to 25 minutes of pretensioning at 89 N and then cyclically loaded under longitudinal tension between 50 N and 250 N for 1,000 cycles at 1 Hz, followed by ramp to failure at 50 mm/min. Results: No statistically significant difference was found between untreated and BioCleanse-treated specimens in stiffness (235.3 ± 37.6 N/mm v 222.3 ± 53.4 N/mm, P = .37), cyclic creep (0.38 ± 0.42 mm v 0.40 ± 0.26 mm, P = .81), maximum force (1,685.7 ± 471.6 N v 1,807.0 ± 657.8 N, P = .47), or ultimate stress (29.0 ± 9.8 MPa v 29.0 ± 12.8 MPa, P = .98). Conclusions: The preimplantation mechanical properties of BPTB allografts treated with BioCleanse are not significantly different from those of untreated controls. Clinical Relevance: This laboratory study compares the biomechanical properties of chemically treated allografts, which are currently being used in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, with those of nontreated fresh-frozen allografts.
Information in Political Markets: A Little Knowledge Can Be a Dangerous Thing

A common feature of many modern analyses of political markets is that the interests of voters and politicians diverge. This can occur, for example, when politicians have ideological preferences that differ from those held by voters (Wittman; Alesina, 1987; Lott and Reed), when politicians differ in their degree of competency (Cukierman and Meltzer; Rogoff), or when it is costly in terms of effort for politicians to produce what voters want (Ferejohn). This divergence of voters' and politicians' interests is assumed to create an incentive for voters to obtain politician-specific information that will help them to forecast the future performance of politicians and so make a better voting choice.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy-associated gastrointestinal perforations: A single-center experience

Background Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is commonly used in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Our aim was to define the risk of perforation associated with EGD and identify patients who required operative intervention. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 72 patients from our institution plus 5 transferred patients who sustained EGD-associated perforations from January 1996 through July 2008. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, endoscopic ultrasonography, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, transthoracic echocardiography, and concurrent colonoscopy procedures were excluded. Results Perforations in 72 of 217,507 EGD procedures were identified (incidence, 0.033%); 124,844 EGDs included an interventional procedure and 92,663 were examination only. The incidence of perforation was similar whether an interventional procedure was performed or not (0.040% vs 0.029%; P = .181). The esophagus was injured most commonly (51%), followed by the duodenum (32%), jejunum (6%), stomach (3%), and common bile duct (3%). Overall mortality after perforation was 17% with a morbidity rate of 40%. Thirty-eight patients (49%) were initially treated nonoperatively, 7 of whom (18%) failed nonoperative management. The only factors we could determine that were associated with failure were free fluid or contrast extravasation on computed tomography (75% vs 23% [P Conclusion EGD is safe in the majority of patients; however, iatrogenic perforation is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Nonoperative management of GI perforation can be successful if there is no evidence of contrast extravasation or free fluid on radiographic studies. If nonoperative management fails, the outcomes may be worse than those treated initially with operative repair.
Time dependence and role of N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptors in the priming of D2-mediated rotational behavior and striatal Fos expression in 6-hydroxydopamine lesioned rats.

Abstract Administration of dopamine agonists to 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesioned rats enhances the rotational response to subsequent administration of dopamine agonist, an effect called `priming'. Previously, we have shown that 6-OHDA rats primed with three injections of the D1/D2 dopamine agonist apomorphine (0.5 mg/kg) permitted a challenge with an otherwise inactive dose of the D2 agonist quinpirole (0.25 mg/kg) to elicit robust rotational behavior and to induce Fos expression in striatoentopeduncular neurons. In this study, the time-course and role of N-methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptors on apomorphine-priming of these D2 responses were investigated. The enhanced rotational behavior and striatal Fos expression observed following challenge with quinpirole (0.25 mg/kg) peaked 1 day following the third apomorphine priming injection and persisted, in reduced form, for at least 4 months. Pretreatment with the NMDA antagonists MK-801 or 3-[(+)-2-carboxypiperazin-4-yl]-propyl-1-phosphonate (CPP) dose-dependently attenuated apomorphine-priming of quinpirole-mediated rotational behavior and striatal Fos induction compared to 6-OHDA rats primed with apomorphine alone. Taken together, these data suggest that priming of these D2-mediated responses in 6-OHDA rats develops rapidly, persists for several months, and is dependent on concomitant NMDA receptor stimulation. Since this priming effect resembles response fluctuations observed in patients with Parkinson's disease receiving long-term l -dihydroxyphenylalanine therapy, the results of the present study suggest that interventions that prevent the development of this enhanced response, such as NMDA antagonists, could prove useful in reducing the incidence these response fluctuations.
AMSR-E melt patterns on the Southern Patagonia Icefield

Passive-microwave 37 GHz vertically polarized (V) brightness temperature (Tb) measure- ments from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for Earth Observing System (AMSR-E) are used to monitor the extent and timing of snowmelt on the Southern Patagonia Icefield (SPI) in Chile and Argentina. Twice daily Tb's for 2002-08 for high-elevation (>1200 m a.s.l.) pixels exhibit a bimodal histogram, typical of snow-covered regions in Yukon, Alaskan icefields and the Greenland ice sheet. The low count between the two populations represents the Tb threshold for melt (252 K). This Tb value with the 18 K diurnal amplitude variation threshold quantifies onset and duration of the spring melt- refreeze period and is used to identify melt regimes and seasonal Tb signals. Tb histograms for pixels west of the Andean divide have a normal distribution above the melt threshold. We interpret the Tb histogram as controlled by surface moisture; the shape and position with respect to Tb are retained with changes in both latitude and elevation, and the region is known to have a moist climate. Tb is not driven by seasonal temperature changes in the northwest sector of the icefield because the Tb threshold is exceeded 75% of the time. For all pixels, the spring melt-refreeze period has shortened by a mean of 10 days a -1 and a mean of 16 days a -1 for pixels with bimodal distributions between 2002 and 2008.
Structures and Infrared Spectroscopy of Metal Cation-Borazine Complexes

Borazine (B3N3H6) is known as ‘inorganic benzene’ because of a planar B3N3 ring with equivalent B-N distance. The lone pair from N in the ring delocalize to the adjacent p-orbital of B which leads to a conjugated system. Even though metal-benzene complexes have been studied extensively as models for cation- π interactions and organometallic bonding, similar systems with borazine is relatively scarce. Here, we present a density functional study on metal cation-borazine complexes focusing on geometric and electronic structures and their effects on infrared spectra. We have chosen Al, V, Mn, and Zn cations with various d-configurations which provide models for study donor-acceptor complexes. Among these four metal complexes, Al + and Mn + prefer to bind to π-cloud on top of the borazine ring. On the other hand, V + and Zn + bind to B and N, respectively. Infrared spectra of these complexes show four major bands: N-H-, B-H stretches and B-N-B ring and scissoring modes. Interactions of Al and Mn barely shift these band positions in the respective complexes as compared to those in isolated borazine, because of less cation-π interactions. On the other hand, V + and Zn + significantly perturb the borazine ring resulting shifts in
Augmenting LZ-77 with authentication and integrity assurance capabilities

SUMMARY The formidable dissemination capability allowed by the current network technology makes it increasingly important to devise new methods to ensure authenticity and integrity. Nowadays it is common practice to distribute documents in compressed form. In this paper, we propose a simple variation on the classic LZ-77 algorithm that allows one to hide, within the compressed document, enough information to warrant its authenticity and integrity. The design is based on the unpredictability of a certain class of pseudo-random number generators, in such a way that the hidden data cannot be retrieved in a reasonable amount of time by an attacker (unless the secret bit-string key is known). Since it can still be decompressed by the original LZ-77 algorithm, the embedding is completely ‘transparent’ and backward-compatible, making it possible to deploy it without disrupting service. Experiments show that the degradation in compression due to the embedding is almost negligible. Copyright c � 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microtubule- and Dynein-Dependent Nuclear Trafficking of Rhesus Rhadinovirus in Rhesus Fibroblasts

ABSTRACT We investigated the role of microtubules in rhesus rhadinovirus (RRV) nuclear trafficking in rhesus fibroblasts. Intact microtubules and microtubule dynamics are required for RRV trafficking to perinuclear regions. RRV trafficking was reduced by an inhibitor of the dynein motor and overexpression of dynamitin. Furthermore, RRV particles are colocalized with microtubules and dynein proteins. These results highlight the important roles of microtubules and dynein-dynactin complexes in the transport of RRV particles to nuclei during primary infection.
In-Home Social Networks and Positive Adjustment in Children Witnessing Intimate Partner Violence:

Evidence suggests that social support may act as a potential protective factor for psychological maladjustment, but few studies have examined the social support networks of young children exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV). The present study examined the in-home networks for 120 preschool-age children who were recently exposed to male-to-female IPV. Results indicated that larger in-home networks were associated with fewer child internalizing and externalizing problems. Mother’s education level was found to moderate the relationship between total in-home network size and child adjustment, such that that when mothers had low levels of education, children had fewer overall adjustment problems as network size increased. When mothers had high levels of education, child adjustment did not significantly vary as network size increased. These findings suggest that the presence of extended family members in the home can positively influence child functioning following exposure to male-to-female IPV.
Attribution Patterns in Men Who Ejaculate Before They Desire: An Internet Survey

Men with erectile problems tend to attribute negative sexual experiences to themselves, in contrast with sexually functional individuals who tend to attribute negative experiences to external factors such as the circumstance or relationship. In this study, we investigated attribution patterns in men with premature ejaculation (PE) symptoms—a group not yet investigated in this regard—to determine whether they follow patterns similar to men with erectile problems. Using an Internet-based approach, we compared attribution responses of 289 men with PE symptoms with 433 sexually functional men on a series of five sexual scenarios (two presenting a positive experience and three presenting a negative experience). Men with PE symptoms were more likely to take blame for any negative sexual experience, including ones unrelated to ejaculating quickly, whereas functional men were more likely to attribute blame to the partner, circumstance, or relationship. Men with PE symptoms also took less credit for positive sexua...
Parameter estimation for models of ligninolytic and cellulolytic enzyme kinetics

Abstract While soil enzymes have been explicitly included in the soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition models, there is a serious lack of suitable data for model parameterization. This study provides well-documented enzymatic parameters for application in enzyme-driven SOC decomposition models from a compilation and analysis of published measurements. In particular, we developed appropriate kinetic parameters for five typical ligninolytic and cellulolytic enzymes (β-glucosidase, cellobiohydrolase, endo-glucanase, peroxidase, and phenol oxidase). The kinetic parameters included the maximum specific enzyme activity ( V max ) and half-saturation constant ( K m ) in the Michaelis–Menten equation. The activation energy ( Ea ) and the pH optimum and sensitivity ( pH opt and pH sen ) were also analyzed. pH sen was estimated by fitting an exponential-quadratic function. The V max values, often presented in different units under various measurement conditions, were converted into the same units at a reference temperature (20 °C) and pH opt . Major conclusions are: (i) Both V max and K m were log-normal distributed, with no significant difference in V max exhibited between enzymes originating from bacteria or fungi. (ii) No significant difference in V max was found between cellulases and ligninases; however, there was significant difference in K m between them. (iii) Ligninases had higher Ea values and lower pH opt than cellulases; average ratio of pH sen to pH opt ranged 0.3–0.4 for the five enzymes, which means that an increase or decrease of 1.1–1.7 pH units from pH opt would reduce V max by 50%. (iv) Our analysis indicated that the V max values from lab measurements with purified enzymes were 1–2 orders of magnitude higher than those for use in SOC decomposition models under field conditions.
Effects of Methylobacterium spp. strains on rice Oryza sativa L. callus induction, plantlet regeneration, and seedlings growth in vitro1

Abstract Maliti, C. M. (Department of Biology & Med. Lab. Technology, Bronx Comm. College, CUNY, University Avenue & West 181 Street, Bronx, NY 10453), D. V. Basile (Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, CUNY, Bronx, NY 10468), and W. A. Corpe (Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027). Effects of methylobacterium spp. strains on rice Oryza sativa callus induction, plantlet regeneration and seedlings growth in vitro. J. Torrey Bot. Soc. 132: 355–367. 2005.—Leaf surfaces of higher plants are colonized by diverse microorganisms. In the present study we report the isolation two strains of pink-pigmented methylotrophic bacteria (PPFM) designated Q4 & Q5. Both strains significantly stimulated growth and development of two rice cultivars, Japonica cv. CR76 and Indica cv. A301, cultured axenically on MS or B5 medium. Co-incubation of strains Q4 and Q5 with embryo-derived rice calli on B5 medium-devoid of exogenous phytohormones resulted in continued callus growth bu...
Initial Studies on the Regulation of Toluene Degradation by Pseudomonas Putida F1

Pseudomonas putida Fl oxidizes toluene through cis-toluene dihydrodiol to 3-methylcatechol. The latter compound is the substrate for “meta” fission of the aromatic nucleus. Kinetic and induction experiments indicate that the genes encoding enzymes for these reactions are part of an operon, designated the tod operon, that is coordinately induced and regulated. Strains unable to utilize toluene as a growth substrate were isolated at high frequencies by using screening procedures that utilize the redox dye, 2,3,5-triphenyl-2H-tetrazolium chloride. Biochemical characterization of strains with mutations in the structural genes of the tod operon showed that toluene induces the first four enzymes in toluene degradation by P. putida Fl. The isolation and characterization of pleiotropicnegative mutants together with mutants altered in terms of their expression of tod genes suggests that the tod operon may be under the control of a positive regulatory element.
Synthesis and conformational behavior of metallacyclicdipeptides derived from coordination of side chain alkynylamino acids to tungsten

Abstract Three dipeptides bearing alkynes on their side chains (9 (derived from dilysine), 14 (derived from dicysteine) and 17 (derived from diglycine)) were prepared and reacted with W(CO)3(dmtc)2 [dmtc = dimethyldithiocarbamate] to afford, respectively, three metallacyclicpeptides, 18, 19 and 20. The metallacyclicpeptides were characterized by HPLC, ES-MS, and 1H NMR. The conformational behavior of the alkynes about the tungsten center was assessed using 1H NMR. It was found that all three metallacyclicpeptides adopt multiple conformations of the alkynes relative to the tungsten. Both 18 and 19 appear to adopt all 8 possible conformations, while 20 adopts a limited number of conformations. The ability of the alkynes to equilibrate between the syn and anti conformations was assessed by examining the alkyne hydrogen resonances using variable temperature 1H NMR. It was found that the alkyne ligands in 18 and 19 will equilibrate between the syn and anti conformations. The alkyne hydrogen resonances in 18 coalesce to one signal around 343 K, while the alkyne hydrogen resonances in 19 do not completely coalesce even by 360 K. Complex 18 has a larger ring than complex 19, and the higher temperature of coalescence for 19 is attributed to its smaller ring size. In contrast, complex 20, which has the smallest ring size, cannot equilibrate between the syn and anti conformations, even at elevated temperatures. The results show that cyclic tungsten–bis(alkyne) complexes will form ring systems with ring sizes of approximately 10 atoms, that ring sizes of approximately 10 atoms are rigid, and that rigidity is lost as the ring size is increased.
Interleukin-11 promotes accessory cell-dependent B-cell differentiation in humans.

Interleukin-11 (IL-11) is a recently described stromal-derived cytokine that supports the growth of an IL-6-dependent murine plasmacytoma line in the presence of antibody to IL-6 and appears to act in a manner similar to IL-6 on hematopoietic stem cells. Because IL-6 is known to promote differentiation of normal human B cells, the role of IL-11 on B- cell differentiation in vitro was characterized. IL-11 does not result in significantly increased DNA synthesis or Ig secretion by purified B cells alone or B cells cultured with Staphylococcus Cowan I, a T-cell- independent B-cell mitogen. In contrast, purified B cells cultured in the presence of pokeweed mitogen (PWM), irradiated T cells, and monocytes show increased DNA synthesis at day 3 and increased IgG and IgM secretion at day 7 of culture; addition of IL-11 further augments Ig secretion without change in DNA synthesis, an effect that can only be partially blocked by monoclonal antibody to IL-6. Similar experiments confirmed that increased IgG secretion was demonstrable when either IL-11 or IL-6 was added to B cells + CD4+/45RA- T cells + monocytes + PWM; in contrast, Ig secretion was low and equivalent when CD4+/45RA+ T cells were cultured with B cells+monocytes+PWM with or without IL-6 or IL-11. Neither IL-6 nor IL-11 could significantly increase phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-induced DNA synthesis by CD4+/45RA- or CD4+/45RA+ T cells. Although PWM or IL-11 induced IL-6 mRNA expression in both CD4+/45RA- T cells and monocytes, in neither cell did IL-11 increase IL-6 mRNA expression over that noted to PWM alone. These observations support the view that IL-11 promotes differentiation of human B lymphocytes only in the presence of accessory T cells and monocytes and that a minor component of this effect may be through stimulation of IL-6 production by CD4+/45RA- T cells and monocytes.
Using an Exploratory Professional Development Initiative to Introduce iPads in the Early Childhood Education Classroom

The purpose of this study was to investigate the incorporation of iPads into the early childhood classroom through an exploratory teacher professional development initiative. Eighteen early childhood educators participated in a 6-month study targeting teacher professional development and pedagogical innovation. This study included built-in opportunities for teacher collaborative discussions and support in their team meetings, as well as basic technology training on the use of an iPad in a classroom. A thematic analysis was conducted using constructed codes from teacher interviews and focus groups, as well as artifact collections of notes from teacher bi-monthly meetings. Results indicate that teachers used technology in three innovative ways: as an efficiency solution, as a bridge in virtual parent communication, and as curriculum enhancement or replacement. The researchers of this study argue that using the iPad as curriculum is the next area of professional growth for early childhood teachers.
Modulation of tight junction formation in clone 4 MDCK cells by fatty acid supplementation

Clone 4 MDCK cells, which generate a transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) of greater than 2,000 omega.cm2, were used to examine the role of membrane lipids in the barrier function of tight junctions. Phospholipid acyl groups were modified by supplementing cells grown in serum-free medium with 18:1(n-9), 18:3(n-3), or 18:3(n-6) complexed to albumin. Although both of these polyunsaturated fatty acids depress the melting point of membrane phospholipids, only 18:3(n-6) contributes significantly to eicosanoid production. Saturation indices of the phospholipids of cells supplemented with albumin alone, 18:1(n-9), 18:3(n-3), or 18:3(n-6) were 0.77, 0.78, 1.81, and 1.65, respectively. After trypsinization or removal of Ca2+, cells supplemented with 18:3(n-6) required longer periods of time to reestablish TER than did nonsupplemented cells or those incubated with 18:3(n-3) or 18:1(n-9). In contrast to MDCK strains I and II, clone 4 MDCK cells required continuous protein synthesis not only to reseal preexisting junctions after the addition of Ca2+ to Ca2+-depleted monolayers, but also to maintain steady-state TER. The rate of decay of TER in the presence of 1 microgram/ml of cycloheximide was 1.5 times greater in cells supplemented with either of the two 18:3 isomers than it was in nonsupplemented controls or in cells supplemented with 18:1(n-9). No significant difference was observed in the steady-state TER or selectivity of the tight junctions after fatty acid supplementation. These results suggest that there is a change in the dynamics of junction formation, rather than an alteration in their intrinsic properties.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
ENHANCEMENT OF NATURAL CONVECTION IN CIRCULAR AND TRIANGULAR DUCTS USING CORONA DISCHARGE IN AIR AND NITROGEN

A computational e ort is undertaken to investigate the e ect of corona discharge in air and nitrogen gas on the enhancement of heat transfer. A corona is a visible luminous emission that occurs in the vicinity of sharp edges where the electric eld is intense. This phenomenon is associated with gas ionization and acceleration of ions in strong electric elds, dragging the gas particles and generating a secondary ow, known as corona wind. Corona wind may be employed as an active enhancement technique for heat transfer. Here, corona wind is used to enhance natural convection inside circular tubes and triangular ducts. The paper describes, not only the enhancement of heat transfer, but also, the shortcoming and challenges encountered in the computational modeling of corona discharge. It is shown that the solution of the electric charge density su ers from some degree of irregularity and asymmetry, while an azimuthally symmetric solution is expected. If this de ciency is not recti ed, the resulting electric body force and the predicted ow eld are not accurate. Two remedies are recommended to improve the solution, namely, arti cial viscosity and structured grids. Moreover, the present computations indicate that, for the Rayleigh number of 3737 and the applied voltage of 8.25-9.5 kV, the corona discharge enhances heat transfer by 17.9-106.9.
A Method of Volatilizing Carbon Bisulfide For Soil Fumigation

A method of volatilizing carbon bisulfide with steam was successfully employed in soil fumigation tests for the control of the greenhouse centipede ( Scutigerella immaculata Newp.) infesting ground beds in a commercial greenhouse at Indianapolis, Indiana. The carbon bisulfide was placed in a steel drum and steam under 50 pounds pressure allowed to pass through, volatilizing the material and forcing the gases into underground tiles, extending the length of the bed at a depth of about 16 inches. A high mortality of centipedes and other soil-infesting forms was secured.
Liquid Crystals as High Repetition Rate Targets for Ultra Intense Laser Systems

Liquid crystal film targets are presented with on-demand thickness control for use in experiments such as laser ion acceleration, where thickness manipulation is critical. Variation from 10 nm to 10 μm with a positional reproducibility better than 2 μm and repetition rate exceeding 0.3 Hz.
Dispositional Optimism and Incidence of Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults.

Objective Higher levels of optimism have been linked with positive health behaviors, biological processes, and health conditions that are potentially protective against cognitive impairment in older adults. However, the association between optimism and cognitive impairment has not been directly investigated. We examined whether optimism is associated with incident cognitive impairment in older adults. Methods Data are from the Health and Retirement Study. Optimism was measured by using the Life Orientation Test-R and cognitive impairment with a modified version of the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status derived from the Mini-Mental State Examination. Using multiple logistic regression models, we prospectively assessed whether optimism was associated with incident cognitive impairment in 4624 adults 65 years and older during a 4-year period. Results Among participants, 312 women and 190 men developed cognitive impairment during the 4-year follow-up. Higher optimism was associated with decreased risk of incident cognitive impairment. When adjusted for sociodemographic factors, each standard deviation increase in optimism was associated with reduced odds (odds ratio [OR] = 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.61-0.81) of becoming cognitively impaired. A dose-response relationship was observed. Compared with those with the lowest levels of optimism, people with moderate levels had somewhat reduced odds of cognitive impairment (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.59-1.03), whereas people with the highest levels had the lowest odds of cognitive impairment (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.36-0.74). These associations remained after adjusting for health behaviors, biological factors, and psychological covariates that could either confound the association of interest or serve on the pathway. Conclusions Optimism was prospectively associated with a reduced likelihood of becoming cognitively impaired. If these results are replicated, the data suggest that potentially modifiable aspects of positive psychological functioning such as optimism play an important role in maintaining cognitive functioning.