cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Alteration of fimbriation and cell hydrophobicity by sublethal concentrations of tetracycline.

The effect of growth in the presence of sublethal concentrations of tetracycline on the extent of fimbriation and surface hydrophobicity of strains of Actinomyces viscosus and Bacteroides gingivalis, two species frequently isolated from patients with rapidly progressing periodontitis, was determined. Negatively-stained cells of A. viscosus strains LY7 and S2 and B. gingivalis strain 381 showed a dramatic reduction in the number of fimbriae on their surface when grown in the presence of 50% of the minimum inhibitory concentration of tetracycline as compared to untreated controls. Similar observations were made with fixed, lanthanum-stained thin sections. In addition to long fimbriae, the A. viscosus strains possessed stubby, densely staining tufts on their surface which were not affected by tetracycline. The hydrophobicity of antibiotic-grown A. viscosus and B. gingivalis cells was also found to be significantly reduced. The decrease in fimbriation and surface hydrophobicity of A. viscosus and B. gingivalis when grown in the presence of low concentrations of tetracycline may explain their reduced ability to attach to experimental pellicles. These observations suggest that part of the efficacy of tetracycline therapy for destructive forms of periodontal diseases may be mediated by an alteration of the adhesive properties of subgingival bacteria which affected their colonization.
Assessing the Hazard to Granivorous Birds Feeding on Chemically Treated Seeds

Current methods for evaluating hazards to seed-eating birds are based on estimated exposure per unit area and assume that birds ingest all of the chemical on a treated seed. In an earlier study, however, it was determined that red-winged blackbirds removed only about 15% of an insecticidal treatment applied to individual rice seeds. Here, we extend those -ndings by examining the seed-handling behavior of four granivorous bird species exposed to millet, rice, sunNower and sorghum treated with imidacloprid. Mourning doves (Zenaida macroura L.) swallowed the seed whole. House -nches (Carpodacus mexicanus Mue ller), red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus L.) and boat-tailed grackles (Quiscalus major Vieillot) discarded the seed hulls, however, and removed only 15E40% of the initial chemical treatment. Residues on seed hulls decreased as handling time increased. SunNowers had the lowest residues because birds repeatedly handled the hull to remove bits of the oily kernel. These results suggest that avian hazard assessment methods should incorporate species-typical seed-handling behavior to assess more accurately birdsI exposure to chemicals on di†erent types of seed.
Propagation of the coherence function in nonlinear dielectrics

We investigate the propagation of Γˆ(x1,x2,ν) the Fourier transform of the mutual coherence function Γ(x1,x2,τ) in nonlinear dielectrics. We assume that the classical phenomenological equations govern the electric field within the dielectric, and we restrict our discussion to the propagation of fields with narrow angular spread. The indeterminate character of the propagation equations is emphasized, and it is shown that a determinate equation results only if the nonlinear term is small. In the quasimonochromatic limit, we investigate for this latter case the dependence of the two-point coherence of the second harmonic on the full fourth-order coherence of the incident beam, a result implied by Ducing and Bloembergen (1964), and Akhmanov et al. (1966). We also show under what circumstances the Hanbury-Brown and Twiss experiment may be performed using a single nonlinear dielectric.
Assessment of self-efficacy to employ self-initiated pornography use-reduction strategies

Abstract Introduction: This study evaluated several psychometric properties of a newly developed questionnaire designed to assess individuals' self-efficacy (from 0% to 100%) to employ self-initiated cognitive–behavioral strategies intended to reduce the frequency and duration of their pornography use. Methods: Using a web-based data collection procedure, we recruited 1298 male users of pornography to complete questionnaires assessing hypersexuality, pornography use history, and general self-efficacy. Results: Based on a principal component analysis and examination of inter-item correlations, we deleted 13 items from the initial pool of 21 strategies. The resulting 8-item questionnaire had excellent internal consistency reliability, and a moderate mean inter-item correlation considered indicative of unidimensionality. In support of criterion validity, self-efficacy to employ use-reduction strategies was significantly associated with the frequency with which participants used pornography, with scores on a measure of hypersexuality, and with the number of times one had attempted to cut back using pornography. In support of discriminant validity, we found that pornography use-reduction self-efficacy scores were not strongly correlated with general self-efficacy. Conclusions: Both researchers and clinicians could use this questionnaire to assess pornography users' confidence to employ self-initiated strategies intended to reduce the duration and frequency with which they use pornography.
Family planning: a political issue

In this Viewpoint we discuss past and present political debates surrounding organised family planning. We highlight three levels of politics: (1) national- discussions within low-income countries about the value and appropriate role of governments in provision of family planning; (2) global-deliberation surrounding the proper role of donors and experts from high income countries; and (3) internal-debates among the core proponents of family planning including demographers and women’s health advocates on why and which services should be made available. We propose that at each of these levels some political trends bode well for the future provision of family planning services whereas others do not but that ignoring potential disagreement is counterproductive: to sustain momentum proponents of family planning will need to anticipate and appreciate objections and prepare strategies to address these. (excerpt(
Differential effect of secondary aqueous humor from rabbit and cat on DNA synthesis of cultured bovine corneal endothelial cells

The addition of medium containing secondary aqueous humor (2°AH) from either cat or rabbit eyes to quiescent preconfluent cultures of bovine corneal endothelial cells resulted in an increase in the incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA. This increase in DNA synthesis in response to 2°AH was dose-dependent and was significantly greater than in control cultures maintained in medium containing 1% bovine calf serum alone. The 2°AH of both cat and rabbit was found to contain elevated levels of protein and 6-keto-prostaglandin-F1α but not thromboxane B2. The proliferative response of bovine cells induced by rabbit 2°AH was significantly greater than the response induced by cat 2°AH containing equivalent amounts of aqueous protein.
Mössbauer study of static and dynamic critical behavior in Fe

In this paper we present the results of detailed experimental studies on the critical behavior of Fe near its critical temperature ${T}_{c}$ (here also Curie temperature ${T}_{C}$) using the M\"ossbauer effect. Using a highly controlled two-stage M\"ossbauer furnace, we made a careful measurement of the critical exponent $\ensuremath{\beta}$ and the critical exponent $z$. The value of ${\ensuremath{\beta}}_{\mathrm{eff}}$ was obtained in both source and absorber experiments and was found to be 0.379(4) for the reduced-temperature range ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}l~tl~2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$ and 0.371(8) for ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}l~tl~2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$, respectively. We have used correction-to-scaling form in the critical region and have obtained the universal $\ensuremath{\beta}$ as $\ensuremath{\beta}=0.367(5)$ and the correction amplitude $A=\ensuremath{-}0.458(22)$. The results on $\ensuremath{\beta}$ agree well with theory, bulk measurements on Fe, and most data on other ferromagnets in the universality class $(n,d)=(3,3)$. The value $z$ was measured as $z=1.93(19)$, which is inconsistent with the theory of short-range exchange interactions and neutron scattering results in Fe, but in agreement with previous hyperfine studies on Ni and Fe, and a recent hypothesis on the dynamic behavior in the asymptotic critical region. We have also investigated the possible magnetization dependence of the isomer shift in Fe and obtained negative results, both within 2 K of the Curie point, and in a wide region above and below the Curie point. These findings, like the $\ensuremath{\beta}$ measurements, are based on both source and absorber experiments. They disagree with Preston's observations near ${T}_{c}$. By studying the M\"ossbauer line intensities we observed a magnetostrictive reorientation of ferromagnetic domains as a function of temperature. This behavior is similar to that observed in some Fe alloys under the influence of compressive strain as well as temperature variation.
Prototyping of Masks, Masters, and Stamps/Molds for Soft Lithography Using an Office Printer and Photographic Reduction

This paper describes a practical method for the fabrication of photomasks, masters, and stamps/molds used in soft lithography that minimizes the need for specialized equipment. In this method, CAD files are first printed onto paper using an office printer with resolution of 600 dots/in. Photographic reduction of these printed patterns transfers the images onto 35-mm film or microfiche. These photographic films can be used, after development, as photomasks in 1:1 contact photolithography. With the resulting photoresist masters, it is straightforward to fabricate poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) stamps/molds for soft lithography. This process can generate microstructures as small as 15 microm; the overall time to go from CAD file to PDMS stamp is 4-24 h. Although access to equipment-spin coater and ultraviolet exposure tool-normally found in the clean room is still required, the cost of the photomask itself is small, and the time required to go from concept to device is short. A comparison between this method and all other methods that generate film-type photomasks has been performed using test patterns of lines, squares, and circles. Three microstructures have also been fabricated to demonstrate the utility of this method in practical applications.
How quality fits into package development

The software-package segment of the software market most closely resembles the manufacturing-for-consumption model on which most quality techniques are based. The author reports on observations of the development processes in 15 package companies, specifically how these developers view quality-assurance practices and what they have in place. >
Cardiorenal Interactions in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: Contemporary Concepts Facing Emerging Controversies

Simultaneous dysfunction of the heart and the kidney represents a distinct spectrum of disease states composed of complex clinical scenarios with adverse outcomes. Worsening renal function (WRF) in the setting of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is one such clinical setup for which the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Apparent discrepancies exist between the emerging data on the cardiorenal interactions of patients with ADHF and contemporary concepts such as the low forward flow or the high backward pressure hypotheses. The findings of recent retrospective studies also suggest that apparent "improvement in renal function" might be yet another risk factor for untoward outcomes in this patient population, further challenging our current understanding of the cardiorenal interactions. Besides, these data do not seem to fully support our conventional thinking about other aspects of these interactions such as the independent adverse impact of WRF on the outcomes of patients with ADHF, pointing to congestion as a possibly overlooked factor. In this article, we provide an overview of these emerging controversial issues with the goal of identifying the areas where clinical research could be most helpful, because it is of paramount importance to characterize the pathways leading to WRF in ADHF to develop a mechanistically relevant management strategy. Although the paucity of data coupled with the complexity of this field precludes any firm conclusion, these discussions are meant to prompt clinicians and researchers to revisit a number of long-believed concepts surrounding the cardiorenal interactions in ADHF.
Landau's hydrodynamic model of particle production and electron-positron annihilation into hadrons

The hydrodynamic model of Landau is formulated in very general terms and applied to the determination of average energy of secondaries, and single-particle inclusive distributions of secondaries. Attention is focused on the relationship between various dynamical assumptions and the equation of state assumed for the fluid motion. In the regimes of scaling and approximate scaling, we solve analytically the hydrodynamic motion of the fluid for both $\mathrm{pp}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\pi}+X$ and ${e}^{+}+{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\pi}+X$. For the annihilation process we solve the hydrodynamic equations numerically and discuss the validity of the scaling approximations. Explicit comparison is made between two dynamical models, the ultrarelativistic model (ideal-gas model) and the hadronic spectrum model.
Living ring-opening metathesis polymerization

Abstract Since the discovery of olefin metathesis in the mid-1950s, there has been great interest in using this versatile reaction to synthesize macromolecular materials. More recently, living ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP), a variation of the olefin metathesis reaction, has emerged as a particularly powerful method for synthesizing polymers with tunable sizes, shapes, and functions. The technique has found tremendous utility in preparing materials with interesting biological, electronic, and mechanical properties. This review covers the fundamental aspects of living ROMP and briefly traces its historical development from a catalyst-design perspective. Highlights from the recent literature are used to illustrate the utility of living ROMP in the preparation of macromolecular materials with advanced structures and functions. A discussion on the current status of state-of-the-art catalysts for use in living ROMP reactions as well as opportunities for the future concludes this review.
Effect of extent of temporal lobe ablations on two lateralized deficits

Abstract Fifty-two epileptic patients with therapeutic temporal lobe removals took Mooney's test of ability to achieve visual closure and Atwell & Wells's vocabulary test. The extent of the removals, used as a measure of the extent of their cerebral disorder, was related in the left temporal group to the vocabulary score; the clear deficit in closure ability in the right temporal group did not show a significant correlation with the size of the removals. The results suggest certain differences in the site and structure of lateralized cerebral functions.
Association of Glucocorticoid Use and Low 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES): 2001–2006

Context: In many disorders requiring steroid therapy, there is substantial decrease in bone mineral density. The association between steroid use and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] deficiency has not been confirmed in large population-based studies, and currently there are no specific vitamin D recommendations for steroid users. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the association of serum 25(OH)D deficiency [defined as 25(OH)D <10 ng/ml] with oral steroid use. Design: Cross-sectional analysis was performed using NHANES 2001–2006. Setting: We analyzed a nationally representative sample of U.S. children and adults. Participants: The study sample consisted of children, adolescents, and adults from NHANES 2001–2006 (n = 22,650), representative of 286 million U.S. residents, with serum 25(OH)D levels and data on other potential confounders. Main Outcome Measure: We measured serum 25(OH)D levels below 10 ng/ml. Results: A total of 181 individuals (0.9% of the population) used steroids within the past ...
Determining the solution conformational entropy of O-linked oligosaccharides at quasi-physiological conditions: size-exclusion chromatography and molecular dynamics

Abstract The physiological functions of oligosaccharides are influenced by a number of structural parameters such as anomeric configuration, glycosidic linkage, and degree of polymerization. These parameters affect the conformation of the oligosaccharides which, in turn, is responsible for characteristics such as aptameric and enzymatic binding, chiral recognition, and the structural targeting of bacterial and parasitic recognition events. Here, we measure the solution conformational entropy (Δ S ) of two series of oligosaccharides, linear malto- and cellooligosaccharides, using size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). For each series, we have determined Δ S as a function of degree of polymerization (DP). The choice of oligosaccharides studied also allowed us to compare the influence of anomeric configuration on Δ S , and to do so as a function of DP. Studies were conducted in water at physiological temperature and pH in order to resemble conditions within the human body. Experimental results were augmented with results from molecular dynamics computer modeling simulations in aqueous solvent. A comparison between experimental and computational data showed how the techniques can complement each other. An example of the latter is the considerable enthalpic contribution to the chromatographic separation of α- and γ-cyclodextrin, which may have gone unnoticed if not for the large discrepancy between the results obtained by the separate techniques.
Development of cellular and humoral responses to teichoic acid

Abstract In unimmunized rats and guinea pigs IgM antibodies to the polyglycerophosphate determinant of teichoic acid appeared shortly after birth. No native IgG antibodies of this specificity were detected until the 20th wk, at which time their appearance coincided with the onset of cell-mediated responses, as measured by MIF and skin tests. The delay in a shift to IgG production was confirmed by hemolytic plaque tests. The same determinant was involved in both cellular and humoral reactions. This delay in immunologic development appeared to be related to lymphocyte maturation as well as to other factor(s). The data presented suggest that differences in antigen, route, and dosage, as well as age of the animal may be critical factors in determining the temporal relationship between humoral and cellular responses.
Decreasing Smoking Behavior through Subliminal Stimulation Treatments

The general purpose of the study was to determine whether subliminal perception could be used as a means for altering cigarette smoking behavior. The study contained a total population sample of seventy-two female subjects. The experimental situation consisted of three different films, shown at three different sessions, with subliminal stimulation for the treatment group. The control group viewed the three films without the subliminal stimulation. The entire association between smoking and quitting smoking was presented subliminally. After an analysis of the data collected, a comparison of the differences between the control and experimental groups revealed that there was no significant difference in regard to base cigarette count between groups after the treatment had been administered. Thus smoking behavior was not altered through subliminal perception as carried out in this study. There was evidence that smoking behavior was altered but it was an unpredicted change, as some of the subjects decreased th...
Neoplastic precursor lesions related to the development of cancer in inflammatory bowel disease.

Dysplasia is an intermediate stage in the progression from inflammation to cancer in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Clinically, dysplasia is used to define appropriate endpoints for colectomy in high-risk patients undergoing endoscopic surveillance. Surveillance is currently the only credible alternative to prophylactic colectomy for high-risk patients. The success of surveillance can be maximized by adherence of gastroenterologists to recommended procedural guidelines, adherence of pathologists to standardized histological criteria and nomenclature, and a joint commitment to close clinical–pathological communication. Technical enhancements to conventional endoscopy hold promise of improved efficiency and accuracy. Molecular-based testing may have a future role for risk stratification and early detection of neoplasia in inflammatory bowel disease.
Studies of magnetic microstructures with soft X-ray transmission microscopy

We review recent achievements of magnetic full-field soft X-ray transmission microscopy. This technique allows for an element-specific imaging of magnetic domain structures in thin films and nanopatterned elements. With a lateral resolution down to 15 nm, the ability to record images in external magnetic fields and the application of stroboscopic pump-and-probe schemes detailed insights into fundamental mechanisms of micromagnetism can be obtained which are relevant in the development of high density and ultrafast magnetic storage and sensor technologies.
Separated Pitch Control at Tip: Innovative Blade Design Explorations for Large MW Wind Turbine Blades

This paper focuses on the deployment and evaluation of a separated pitch control at blade tip (SePCaT) control strategy for large megawatt (MW) wind turbine blade and explorations of innovative blade designs as a result of such deployment. SePCaT configurations varied from five to thirty percent of the blade length in 5 percentage increments (SePCaT5, SePCaT10, SePCaT15, SePCaT20, SePCaT25, and SePCaT30) are evaluated by comparing them to aerodynamical responses of the traditional blade. For low, moderate, high, and extreme wind speed variations treated as 10, 20, 30, and 40 percent of reference wind speeds, rotor power abatement in region 3 of the wind speed power curve is realized by feathering full length blade by 6, 9, 12, and 14 degrees, respectively. Feathering SePCaT30, SePCaT25, SePCaT20, and SePCaT15 by 14, 16, 26, and 30 degrees, respectively, achieves the same power abatement results when compared to traditional blade at low wind speeds. Feathering SePCaT30, SePCaT25, and SePCaT20 by 18, 26, and 30 degrees on the other hand has the same effect at high wind speeds. SePCaT30 feathered to 26 and 30 degrees has the same abatement effects when compared to traditional blade at high and extreme wind speeds.
Autobiographical memory: exploring its functions in everyday life.

This special issue of Memory spotlights research that uses a functional approach to investigate autobiographical memory (AM) in everyday life. This approach relies on studying cognition, in this case AM, taking into account the psychological, social, or cultural-historic context in which it occurs. Areas of interest include understanding to what ends AM is used by individuals and in social relationships, how it is related to other cognitive abilities and emotional states, and how memory represents our inner and outer world. One insight gained by taking this approach is that levels and types of accuracy need not always be regarded as memory “failures” but are sometimes integral to a self-memory system that serves a variety of meaningful ends of human activity. Previously hypothesised functions of AM fall into three broad domains: self, social, and directive. Each of the contributions addresses how AM serves one or more of these functions and thereby examines the usefulness and adequacy of this trio.
Antiviral silencing in animals

RNA silencing or RNA interference (RNAi) refers to the small RNA-guided gene silencing mechanism conserved in a wide range of eukaryotic organisms from plants to mammals. As part of this special issue on the biology, mechanisms and applications of RNAi, here we review the recent advances on defining a role of RNAi in the responses of invertebrate and vertebrate animals to virus infection. Approximately 40 miRNAs and 10 RNAi suppressors encoded by diverse mammalian viruses have been identified. Assays used for the identification of viral suppressors and possible biological functions of both viral miRNAs and suppressors are discussed. We propose that herpesviral miRNAs may act as specificity factors to initiate heterochromatin assembly of the latent viral DNA genome in the nucleus.
Ecosystem structure along bioclimatic gradients in Hawai'i from imaging spectroscopy

The Hawaiian Islands contain more than two-thirds of the life zones delineated by Holdridge, L.R., 1947. Determination of world plant formations from simple climate data. Science, 105, 367–368, and is thus an ideal testing ground for remote sensing studies of ecosystem function and structure. We tested the generality of imaging spectroscopy with ‘‘tied’’ red-edge and shortwave-infrared (RESWIR2) spectral mixture modeling for automated analysis of the lateral distribution of plant tissues and bare substrate across diverse bioclimatic gradients in Hawai’i. Unique quantities of the fractional cover of photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic vegetation (PV, NPV) and bare substrate identified fundamental differences in ecosystem structure across life zones. There was a ¨20-fold increase in fractional PV cover with a 10-fold increase in mean annual precipitation (� 250–2000 mm year � 1 ). This rate of increase diminished from 2000 to 3000 mm year � 1 of rainfall, suggesting that photosynthetic canopy cover may be limited by water saturation at 3000 mm year � 1 . The amount of exposed surface senescent material (NPV) remained nearly constant at ¨50% in ecosystems with a mean annual precipitation <1500 mm year � 1 . Thereafter, NPV steadily declined to a minimum of ¨20% at 3000 mm year � 1 of rainfall. Bare substrate fractions were highest (¨50%) at precipitation levels <750 mm year � 1 , then declined to <20% in the 750–1000 mm year � 1 zones. The combination of low bare substrate and high NPV cover in the 750–1000 mm year � 1 rainfall zones identified these areas as high fire risk. Remotely sensed fractional cover of PV+NPV was poorly correlated with canopy leaf area index (LAI), showing the uniqueness of the lateral structural measurement afforded by automated RE-SWIR2 spectroscopy approaches. The results indicate the accuracy, precision and applicability of imaging spectroscopy for ecological research across a wide range of bioclimatic conditions.
Validation of procedure for setting normal limits on basis of total laboratory experience.

Abstract Normal limits of direct and derived SMA-12 analyses estimated as the central 95% of observations in 609 blood donors and laboratory personnel were compared with limits calculated from 352 across-the-board hospital patients using the Becktel procedure which presupposed clinical opinion as to type of distribution in normals and as to tail in which contamination is expected. Comparisons were made for 18 determination-sex-age items for which more than a hundred observations of each type were at hand and no systematic bias was evident with relation to estimates of characteristic value, dispersion, or position of limit on side of expected contamination. There was generally good agreement in limits set by the two methods. In some instances the degree of disparity was disappointing. However, larger groups of subjects would be expected to improve the precision of estimate with the Becktel procedure. It is recommended as a valid and useful method of setting normal limits in the laboratory.
A coupled biventricular finite element and lumped-parameter circulatory system model of heart failure

Numerical modelling of the cardiovascular system is becoming an important tool for assessing the influence of heart disease and treatment therapies. In the current study, we present an approach for modelling the interaction between the heart and the circulatory system. This was accomplished by creating animal-specific biventricular finite element (FE) models, which characterise the mechanical response of the heart, and by coupling them to a lumped-parameter model that represents the systemic and pulmonic circulatory system. In order to minimise computation time, the coupling was enforced in a weak (one-way) manner, where the ventricular pressure-volume relationships were generated by the FE models and then passed into the circulatory system model to ensure volume conservation and physiological pressure changes. The models were first validated by tuning the parameters, such that the output of the models matched experimentally measured pressures and volumes. Then the models were used to examine cardiac function and the myofibre stress in a healthy canine heart and a canine heart with dilated cardiomyopathy. The results showed good agreement with experimental measurements. The stress in the case of cardiomyopathy was found to increase significantly, while the pump function was decreased, compared to the healthy case. The total runtime of the simulations is lesser than that of many fully coupled models presented in the literature. This will allow for a much quicker evaluation of possible treatment strategies for combating the effects of heart failure, especially in optimisation schemes that require numerous FE simulations.
Interaction of surface chemistry and mass transfer in nonsimilar boundary-layer flows.

Abstract : An integral method is developed for compressible boundary layers with surface reactions. Each individual conservation equation is allowed to admit arbitrary distribution of surface activities subjected to the constraints imposed by the surface interaction mechanisms that, in general, involved couplings between the boundary conditions of the various conservation equations. As an example, the interaction of surface chemistry due to combustion and its attendant mass transfer on an isothermal graphite cone is studied, and its effects on velocity field and surface heat transfer are examined. Solutions are obtained by a numerical method. The result shows that the surface combustion is rate-limited near the origin and diffusion-limited sufficiently far downstream. The transition length between the two limiting regimes depends drastically on an interaction parameter. The maximum effects on surface shear and surface heat transfer occur at the diffusion-limited regimes, and the rsults are in good agreement with stagnation point calculations based on diffusion-limited combustion reported by Scala. The extensions to other modes of surface interaction as well as to arbitrary bodies are discussed. (Author)
Dose-response effects of d-amphetamine on complex discrete-trial operant behavior☆

Abstract Rats were trained on a highly complex discrete-trial operant schedule to a stable level of performance. Administration of d-amphetamine produced selective impairment on two of three components of the learned behavior.
Stressors and Strengths: A Theoretical and Practical Examination of Nuclear, Single-Parent, and Augmented African American Families:

Much of the academic attention on the African American family has focused on pathologies. Less information has been obtained using cultural equivalent or emergent models to recognize positive, adap...
A multiple goals perspective on topic avoidance and relationship satisfaction in the context of breast cancer

Using a multiple goals perspective on interpersonal communication as a theoretical framework, this study examined the circumstances under which topic avoidance might predict lower relationship satisfaction among women coping with breast cancer. Results gathered from questionnaire responses of women who had recently undergone treatment for breast cancer (N=140) indicated that the association between topic avoidance and relationship satisfaction was moderated by patients' own reasons for avoidance, and by perceptions of partners' reasons for avoidance. The findings of this study contribute to recent scholarship suggesting the importance of considering the motivations for and interpretations of topic avoidance in order to better understand how patterns of topic avoidance predict relational wellbeing.
How aluminum adjuvants could promote and enhance non-target IgE synthesis in a genetically-vulnerable sub-population

Aluminum-containing adjuvants increase the effectiveness of vaccination, but their ability to augment immune responsiveness also carries the risk of eliciting non-target responses, especially in genetically susceptible individuals. This study reviews the relevant actions of aluminum adjuvants and sources of genetic risk that can combine to adversely affect a vulnerable sub-population. Aluminum adjuvants promote oxidative stress and increase inflammasome activity, leading to the release of IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-33, but not the important regulatory cytokine IL-12. In addition, they stimulate macrophages to produce PGE₂, which also has a role in regulating immune responses. This aluminum-induced cytokine context leads to a T(H)2 immune response, characterized by the further release of IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-13, and IgE-potentiating factors such as sCD23. Genetic variants in cytokine genes, such as IL-4, IL-13, IL-33, and IL-18 influence the response to vaccines in children and are also associated with atopy. These genetic factors may therefore define a genetically-vulnerable sub-population, children with a family history of atopy, who may experience an exaggerated T(H)2 immune response to aluminum-containing vaccines. IL-4, sCD23, and IgE are common factors for both atopy and the immune-stimulating properties of aluminum adjuvants. IL-4 is critical in the production of IgE and total IgE up-regulation. IL-4 has also been reported to induce the production of sCD23 and trigger resting sIgM+, sIgD+ B-cells to switch to sIgE+ B-cells, making them targets for IgE-potentiating factors. Further, the actions of IgE-potentiating factors on sIgE+ B-cells are polyclonal and unrestricted, triggering their differentiation into IgE-forming plasma cells. These actions provide a mechanism for aluminum-adjuvant promotion and enhancement of non-target IgE in a genetically vulnerable sub-population. Identification of these individuals may decrease the risk of adverse events associated with the use of aluminum-containing vaccines.
Difference in the property of the nerve calmodulin-dependent protein kinase between kdr-type, pyrethroid-resistant and susceptible strains of Musca domestica and Blattella germanica

Abstract The effects of calcium, clamodulin and 1R-deltamethrin on protein phosphorylation processes were investigated using lysed synaptosomal preparations isolated from the nervous system of the suceptible and kdr-resistant German cockroaches and houseflies. By comparing interstrain differences in phosphorylation activities of isolated, lysed synaptic membranes, it was concluded that the stimulatory effect of calcium alone on protein phosphorylation was the same in the preparations from the susceptible and the kdr-resistant strains of the German cockroach. However, calmodulin, added in the presence of Ca2+, significantly increased the level of phosphorylation of the two putative subunits of calcium-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CCPK) from the susceptible strains, but its effect on the same enzyme in the kdr-resistant strains of the German cockroach and housefly was much less. 1R-deltamethrin at 10−8 M inhibited both the total protein phosphorylation and the phosphorylation on the two subunits of CCPK in the susceptible and kdr-resistant strains of the German cockroach. Depolarization induced in intact synaptomomes by veratridine or “high K+” in the presence of 1R-deltamethrin at 10−10 M and 10−6 M had the effect of significantly increasing the total level of endogenous protein phosphorylation in the susceptible strain, but the increase was not significant in the kdr-resistant strain of the German cockroach. An identical experimental approach on kdr and the susceptible strain of the housefly produced essentially the same results, indicating that the CCPK enzyme from the kdr-type resistant insects behave in a different manner from the susceptible counterparts in terms of their responsiveness to calmodulin.
Reliable classification by unreliable crowds

We consider the use of error-control codes and decoding algorithms to perform reliable classification using unreliable and anonymous human crowd workers by adapting coding-theoretic techniques for the specific crowdsourcing application. We develop an ordering principle for the quality of crowds and describe how system performance changes with the quality of the crowd. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed coding scheme using both simulated data and real datasets from Amazon Mechanical Turk, a crowdsourcing microtask platform. Results suggest that good codes may improve the performance of the crowdsourcing task over typical majority-vote approaches.
Decrease in the number of high-affinity opiate binding sites during the aging process in Mytilus edulis (Bivalvia).

As Mytilus edulis(Bivalvia) ages, the number of stereospecific opiate binding sites in the visceral ganglia significantly decreases. The number of high-affinity etorphine sites decreased by 30%; the number of naloxone sites decreased by 23%. The affinity of the ligands did not vary with age. In addition, the augmentation by opioids of dopamine levels in the visceral ganglia was less in older animals and was accompanied by a reduced sensitivity of the ganglia to etorphine and DAMA (d-Ala 2,Met5-enkephalinamide).
Effect of Timolol on Aqueous Humor Protein Concentration in Humans

Short-term topical application of timolol, in a prospective, randomized, double-masked study of 32 human eyes, was associated with an average aqueous humor protein concentration of 38 mg/100 ml, compared to 13 mg/100 ml in control subjects (P
Reproducibility of Aortic Pulsatility Measurements From ECG- Gated Abdominal CTA in Patients with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Purpose: ECG-gated abdominal CT angiography with reconstruction of multiple, temporally overlapping CT angiography datasets has been proposed for measuring aortic pulsatility. The purpose of this work is to develop algorithms to segment the aorta from surrounding structures from CTA datasets across cardiac phases, calculate registered centerlines and measurements of regional aortic pulsatility in patients with AAA, and to assess the reproducibility of these measurements. Methods: ECG-gated CTA was performed with a temporal resolution of 165 ms, reconstructed to 1 mm slices ranging at 14 cardiac phase points. Data sets were obtained from 17 patients on which two such scans were performed 6 to 12 months apart. Automated segmentation, centerline generation, and registration of centerlines between phases was performed, followed by calculation of cross-sectional areas and regional and local pulsatility. Results: Pulsatility calculations for the supraceliac region were very reproducible between earlier and later scans of the same patient, with average differences less than 1% for pulsatility values ranging from 2% to 13%. Local radial pulsatilities were also reproducible to within ~1%. Aneurysm volume changes between scans can also be quantified. Conclusion: Automated segmentation, centerline generation, and registration of temporally resolved CTA datasets permit measurements of regional changes in cross-sectional area over the course of the cardiac cycle (i.e., regional aortic pulsatility). These measurements are reproducible between scans 6-12 months apart, with differences in aortic areas reflecting both aneurysm remodeling and changes in blood pressure. Regional pulsatilities ranged from 2 to 13% but were reproducible at the 1% level.
SPATIAL PATTERNS OF FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN CHINA'S CITIES, 1980-1989

In the 1980s, foreign investment in China's cities experienced a northeastward movement from the southern coast to the central coast, and began to penetrate into inland cities, Foreign investment clustered in coastal delta areas and along the Changliang and Huanghe rivers. To understand these spatial patterns, a linear regression model is established. Cities with better power supplies, seaports, water transportation, communication, and investment incentives provided more favorable locations for foreign investment. Agglomerated cities had a better chance of attracting foreign investment than widely separated cities, with larger cities not necessarily attracting more foreign investment. Regression residuals also are analyzed for insights into spatial trends of foreign investment. Urban foreign investment in the near future probably will continue to accumulate in the coastal delta areas. Provincial capitals likely will be favorable locations for foreign investment that will further penetrate from the coastal...
Radio-Frequency Radiation from the Rosette Nebula

A RECENT radio survey of the galactic anti-centre region, made at 242 Mc./s. with the Ohio State University radio telescope, has revealed an intense extended radio source in the constellation of Monoceros. The co-ordinates of the radio source agree closely with the position of the Rosette nebula surrounding the galactic cluster NGC2244. Also the width in right ascension of the radio source is comparable with the diameter of the nebula. Thus, it is presumed that the radio source may be identified with the Rosette nebula.
Adverse selection, investment, and profit taxation

Abstract This article introduces government revenue requirements and attendant taxation into a financial market model with informed borrowers (entrepreneurs) and uninformed lenders. It finds that: (1) in general, an allocationally neutral proportional profit tax yields an equilibrium which is constrained inefficient, despite the constrained efficiency of the no-tax equilibrium; (2) many constrained efficient allocations can only be supported by a profit tax regime which depends on the entrepreneur's investment choice and thus, which is tantamount to direct intervention in the financial market; and (3) some ‘first best’ allocations can be supported by an investment- invariant tax regime which includes a proportional profit tax and a positive fixed transfer.
AN ANALYSIS OF THE UTILIZATION OF FINANCIAL COUNSELLING SERVICES

Conceptual models were developed to explain the probability of seeking financial counselling services and the amount of time spent utilizing them. The models were estimated using a two-stage estimation procedure which corrects for sample selection bias. The sample included 912 undergraduate students enrolled at three institutions of higher education in the central New York State area during the fall semester of 1979. In the visitation model, non-white students, and students who lived in apartments, who attended private educational institutions, who received financial aid and who perceived their incomes to be inadequate were more likely to seek the financial counselling services offered by the Financial Aid Office. Seniors, students majoring in the natural sciences, students with higher total incomes and students who were dependent on their parents for financial support were less likely to visit the Financial Aid Office. The amount of time equation also showed that non-white students, students who were enrolled in private schools, who received high levels of financial aid and who perceived their incomes as inadequate spent more time in utilizing the financial counselling services on their campuses. On the other hand, students who lived with their parents, who had higher sources of non-financial aid income and who were dependent on their parents financially, spent less time utilizing the services of the Financial Aid Office.
Electron-Transfer Reactions of Ruthenium Trisbipyridyl-Viologen Donor-Acceptor Molecules: Comparison of the Distance Dependence of Electron Transfer-Rates in the Normal and Marcus Inverted Regions

The rates of photoinduced forward and thermal back electron transfer (ET) in a series of donor-acceptor molecules (2,2[prime]-bipyridine)[sub 2]Ru(4-CH[sub 3]-2,2[prime]-bipyridine-4[prime]) (CH[sub 2])[sub n](4,4[prime]-bipyridinium-CH[sub 3])[sup 4+] (n = 1-5,7,8) were studied by flash photolysis/transient absorbance techniques. The rate of intramolecular forward ET (MLCT quenching) in acetonitrile varies exponentially with the number of carbon atoms in the spacer chain up to n = 5 and is roughly constant for n = 5, 7, 8, consistent with a predominantly [open quotes]through bond[close quotes] electron transfer pathway for short chains and a [open quotes]through solvent[close quotes] pathway for longer chains. Encapsulation of the spacer chain by [beta]-cyclodextrin molecules slows the rate of forward ET for n = 7, 8, consistent with a [open quotes]through bond[open quotes] ET pathway. The rate of back ET, which occurs in the Marcus inverted region, also varies exponentially with n, but more weakly than the forward ET rates. Apparent [beta] values (defined by k[sub et] = A exp(-[beta]r[sub DA]), where r[sub DA] is the donor-acceptor distance) are 1.38 and 0.66 [angstrom][sup [minus]1] for forward and back ET, respectively. However, correction of k[sub ET] for the distance dependence of the solvent reorganization energy gives similar values (1.0-1.2 [angstrom][sup [minus]1]) ofmore » [beta] for the two ET reactions. In this case, [beta] describes the distance dependence of [vert bar]V[vert bar][sup 2] (V = electronic coupling matrix element) rather than that of k[sub ET]. 44 refs., 9 figs., 3 tabs.« less
When Parents Want Children to Stay Home for College

Although previous studies show that a majority of parents want their children to go to college and graduate with a 4-year degree, the strategies used to accomplish this goal vary widely. While some parents feel it is important for their children to attend school while living at home (college-at-home parents), others do not (college-anywhere parents). This study investigates the influence of these parental strategy preferences on whether children apply to college during their senior year of high school, as well as whether they apply to multiple colleges. Net of measured ability, socioeconomic factors, and students’ own strategy preferences, students with college-at-home parents are significantly less likely to apply to college than students with college-anywhere parents; and among those who do apply to college, students with college-at-home parents are significantly less likely to apply to multiple colleges.
Role of ferredoxin in the activation of sedoheptulose diphosphatase in isolated chloroplasts.

Abstract Sedoheptulose 1,7-diphosphatase activity of isolated spinach chloroplasts shows a requirement for (i) reduced ferredoxin and (ii) a protein factor. Activation by ferredoxin, reduced photochemically by chloroplast fragments, was optimal at pH 7.8 and at a Mg 2+ concentration of 5 mM. The protein factor needed for activation appears to be the same as that required by the chloroplast fructose-1,6-diphosphatase that is activated by reduced ferredoxin. The results indicate that sedoheptulose-1,7-diphosphatase, like fructose-1,6-diphosphatase, is a regulatory enzyme whose activity in chloroplasts is controlled via ferredoxin by light.