cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of perceptions among rural versus nonrural secondary science teachers: A Multistate Survey

A 100-item survey was distributed to science teachers in eight states to determine characteristics of teachers, schools, programs, and perceived needs. Results from 1258 secondary science teachers indicate that they perceive the following to be among their greatest needs: (1) to motivate students to want to learn science; (2) to discover sources of free and inexpensive science materials; (3) to learn more about how to use computers to deliver and manage instruction; (4) to find and use materials about science careers; and (5) to improve problem solving skills among their students. Based on whether teachers classified themselves as nonrural or rural, rural teachers do not perceive as much need for help with multicultural issues in the classroom or maintaining student discipline as their nonrural peers. Rural teachers report using the following classroom activities less often than nonrural teachers: cooperative learning groups, hands-on laboratory activities, individualized strategies, and inquiry teaching. More rural than nonrural teachers report problems with too many class preparations per day, a lack of career role models in the community, and lack of colleagues with whom to discuss problems. Among all secondary science teachers, the most pronounced problems reported by teachers were (in rank order): (1) insufficient student problem-solving skills; (2) insufficient funds for supplies; (3) poor student reading ability; (4) lack of student interest in science: and (5) inadequate laboratory facilities. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Assessing Occupational Self-Efficacy Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Four studies, involving 314 middle-aged and older adults were conducted to develop and validate the Occupational Self-Efficacy Index (OSEI). The OSEI assesses adults' beliefs (in the latter half of...
Characterization of olefinic gas chromatographic stationary phases by linear solvation energy relationships

Abstract Three olefinic gas chromatographic stationary phases were characterized using a linear solvation energy relationship (LSER) of the type log Vg=c+r1R2+s1πH2+a1ΣαH2+b1ΣβH2+l1log L16, and the results were compared with the LSER coefficients for other, previously characterized, olefinic stationary phases. Based on the coefficients obtained, the presence of olefinic functional groups tends to contribute to the hydrogen bond acceptor basicity, molar refractivity, and dipolarity–polarizability interactions (a1, r1, and s1 values, respectively, in the above equation). It is also shown that the presence of the electron withdrawing chlorine atom in polychloroprene contributes to its ability to act as a hydrogen bond donor acid. The results are viewed from the perspective of using quantitative structure–solubility relationships in the determination of LSER coefficients.
Multifunctional fiber sensors based on Photonic Crystals

Optical interactions in 2D and 3D nanostructures enable multifunctional sensors. This talk describes the concepts, designs, fabrication, and system integration of sensors for a variety of measurands, including temperature, refractive index, force, and pressure.
Statistical Learning and Kernel Methods

We briefly describe the main ideas of statistical learning theory, support vector machines, and kernel feature spaces.
Multi-Perspective Modeling for Click Event Prediction

We present our solutions to the RecSys Challenge 2015. We propose a multi-perspective modeling scheme for click event prediction, which involves techniques from sophisticated feature engineering for both click sessions and clicked items, classification based on gradient boosting tree, semi-supervised learning that utilizes information from test data, multi-class classification for different categories of sessions and items, classifier-based feature fusion from multi-class classification and in the end classifier ensembles from multiple models. We demonstrate that our scheme is intuitive, flexible and powerful for the Challenge tasks. Our solution based on the scheme achieves a score of 49,517.2 in the Challenge.
Color-matched and fluorescence-labeled esophagus phantom and its applications

We developed a stable, reproducible three-dimensional optical phantom for the evaluation of a wide-field endoscopic molecular imaging system. This phantom mimicked a human esophagus structure with flexibility to demonstrate body movements. At the same time, realistic visual appearance and diffuse spectral reflectance properties of the tissue were simulated by a color matching methodology. A photostable dye-in-polymer technology was applied to represent biomarker probed "hot-spot" locations. Furthermore, fluorescent target quantification of the phantom was demonstrated using a 1.2 mm ultrathin scanning fiber endoscope with concurrent fluorescence-reflectance imaging.
A dual-process approach to health risk decision making: The prototype willingness model

Abstract Although dual-process models in cognitive, personality, and social psychology have stimulated a large body of research about analytic and heuristic modes of decision making, these models have seldom been applied to the study of adolescent risk behaviors. In addition, the developmental course of these two kinds of information processing, and their relation to the development of self-regulation are not well understood at this time. The current paper reviews what leading dual-process models have to say about the development of analytic and heuristic decision making, and their implications for adolescent risk behavior. In addition, it reviews research on the prototype willingness model of adolescent decision making—a dual-process model designed specifically to address non-intentional, but volitional adolescent risk behavior. It also discusses the implications of dual-process models for intervention research.
Cyclophosphamide for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus

Aggressive immunosuppressive therapy with cyclophosphamide has improved the outcome of major organ disease in lupus patients. Controlled trials have shown that pulse cyclophosphamide is the treatment of choice for patients with moderate to severe proliferative nephritis. Long-term follow-up of patients participating in these controlled trials suggests that combining pulse cyclophoshamide with pulse methylprednisolone increases efficacy but not toxicity. Retrospective case series have also shown that pulse cyclophosphamide therapy may be effective for the management of severe or refractory to standard therapy neuropsychiatric, pulmonary, cardiovascular and hematologic disease. Pulse cyclophosphamide is associated with an increased risk for herpes zoster infections in the short term and with sustained amenorrhea in the long-term. Recent studies have also drawn attention to the lack of response (or incomplete response) and flare of lupus after an initial response. In an effort to circumvent these limitations, current investigations explore the therapeutic potential of high-dose, immunoablative cyclophosphamide therapy or low-dose cyclophosphamide in combination with nucleoside analogs or biologic response modifiers.
The vibrational spectra and structure of organogermanes—XI. CH2CHGeH3 and CH2CHGeD3

Abstract The i.r. spectra of gaseous CH 2 CHGeH 3 and CH 2 CHGeD 3 have been recorded from 4000–33 cm −1 . The Raman spectrum of vinylgermane in the liquid state has been recorded and depolarization values measured. The spectra have been interpreted in detail and twenty of the twenty-one normal vibrations have been assigned on the basis of the i.r. band contours, the Raman depolarization values, and the relative band positions. The vibrational spectra are consistent with the molecules having C 3 , symmetry. The rotational fine structure of the “perpendicular” band at 950 cm −1 has been discussed. Correlation of the frequencies for the normal modes of vinylgermane with those for the trihalo-substituted derivatives previously studied has been given.
Counteractive Lobbying in the U.S. Supreme Court

Theories of counteractive lobbying assert that interest groups lobby for the purpose of neutralizing the advocacy efforts of their opponents. We examine the applicability of counteractive lobbying to explain interest group amicus curiae participation in the U.S. Supreme Court's decisions on the merits. Testing the counteractive lobbying hypotheses from 1953 to 2001, we provide strong support for the contention that interest groups engage in counteractive lobbying in the nation's highest court. Our findings indicate that, like the elected branches of government, the Supreme Court is properly viewed as a battleground for public policy in which organized interests clash in their attempts to etch their policy preferences into law.
Nephrotoxicity and uptake of 1-benzyl quinolinium in precision-cut rabbit renal cortical slices.

Abstract Nephrotoxicity studies have not always meshed toxicity with transport and uptake, although the two are interdependent. To begin to address this issue, a series of model organic cations (quaternary amines) was examined which revealed differences in toxicity that were not explained by slight structural variations. Thus, a single model organic cation, 1-benzyl quinolinium (BQ), was used to assess organic cations in rabbit renal cortical slices. Histopathological evaluation revealed that BQ produced site-specific injury in the S3 region of the proximal tubule. Biochemical assays (K+, qO2 and ATP) revealed dose- and time-dependent decreases of BQ-exposed slices over 2–12 hr. Cation transport (uptake of tetraethylammonium) was decreased by BQ at sub-toxic doses within 2 hr, although anion transport (uptake of p-aminohippurate) was not affected. Understanding the toxicity and transport of model cations such as BQ will help to identify the mechanisms associated with organic cation nephrotoxicity as well as to facilitate the use of transport parameters to prevent toxicity or prolong drug action of cations.
KTeV: New experiments to measure and rare kaon decays at fermilab

The KTeV Project includes two new fixed-target kaon experiments at Fermilab, E-832 and E-799 Phase II, which will use almost the same apparatus. E-832 will perform a new measurement of ϵ′ϵ, with a goal of 10−4 accuracy, while E-799 Phase II will search for rare KL decays of the form KL → π0ll, which have important direct-CP-violating contributions in the Standard Model. The KTeV apparatus is described, and the status of the project is presented. Some initial indications of data quality are given.
Effect of mixing scanner types and reconstruction kernels on the characterization of lung parenchymal pathologies: emphysema, interstitial pulmonary fibrosis and normal non-smokers

In this study we utilize our texture characterization software (3-D AMFM) to characterize interstitial lung diseases (including emphysema) based on MDCT generated volumetric data using 3-dimensional texture features. We have sought to test whether the scanner and reconstruction filter (kernel) type affect the classification of lung diseases using the 3-D AMFM. We collected MDCT images in three subject groups: emphysema (n=9), interstitial pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) (n=10), and normal non-smokers (n=9). In each group, images were scanned either on a Siemens Sensation 16 or 64-slice scanner, (B50f or B30 recon. kernel) or a Philips 4-slice scanner (B recon. kernel). A total of 1516 volumes of interest (VOIs; 21x21 pixels in plane) were marked by two chest imaging experts using the Iowa Pulmonary Analysis Software Suite (PASS). We calculated 24 volumetric features. Bayesian methods were used for classification. Images from different scanners/kernels were combined in all possible combinations to test how robust the tissue classification was relative to the differences in image characteristics. We used 10-fold cross validation for testing the result. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were calculated. One-way Analysis of Variances (ANOVA) was used to compare the classification result between the various combinations of scanner and reconstruction kernel types. This study yielded a sensitivity of 94%, 91%, 97%, and 93% for emphysema, ground-glass, honeycombing, and normal non-smoker patterns respectively using a mixture of all three subject groups. The specificity for these characterizations was 97%, 99%, 99%, and 98%, respectively. The F test result of ANOVA shows there is no significant difference (p <0.05) between different combinations of data with respect to scanner and convolution kernel type. Since different MDCT and reconstruction kernel types did not show significant differences in regards to the classification result, this study suggests that the 3-D AMFM can be generally introduced.
Alteration of the antigenic structure of vasopressin by performic acid oxidation

Abstract Rabbit anti-vasopressin antibody has been used in a double-antibody radio-immunoassay system to demonstrate structural alterations of vasopressin resulting from the disruption of the disulfide bond. Performic acid-oxidized vasopressin required a concentration 5000 times greater than control to compete with radioiodinated vasopressin for anti-vasopressin antibody. These studies provide a model system for exploring relationships between molecular structure and hormonal activity, and for defining the role of conformation of antigenic determinants in specific interaction with antibody.
Photoaffinity Labeling of a Cell Surface Polyamine Binding Protein

Intracellular polyamine pools are partially maintained by an active transport apparatus that is specific for and regulated by polyamines. Although mammalian transport activity has been characterized by kinetic studies, the actual protein itself has yet to be identified, purified, or cloned. As one approach to this problem, we attempted photoaffinity labeling of plasma membrane proteins using two specifically designed and synthesized polyamine conjugates as photoprobes. The first is a spermidine conjugate bearing the photoreactive moiety 4-azidosalicylic acid at the N4 position via an alkyl linkage, and the second is a norspermine conjugate with 4-azidosalicylic acid at the N1 position via an acyl linkage. Labeling of murine L1210 lymphocytic leukemia cells was carried out at 4°C to promote selective alkylation of cell surface proteins. Separation of plasma membrane proteins from cells cross-linked with the N4-spermidine conjugate by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed two heavily labeled proteins at ~118 and ~50 kDa (designated p118 and p50, respectively). Band p118 was more well defined and much more intensely labeled. Analogous proteins were also observed in human U937 lymphoma cells. Specificity of labeling was strongly suggested by competition with polyamines and analogs during labeling and further indicated by the nearly identical labeling of the same protein by the N1-norspermine photoprobe but not by the unconjugated photoreagent. Neuraminidase pretreatment of L1210 cells increased mobility of the p118, suggesting that it was glycosylated and, thus, of plasma membrane origin. In transport-deficient L1210 cells, p118 and p50 were found to have a slightly higher molecular mass and were accompanied by a less distinct protein band (~100 kDa). These findings indicate the presence of a polyamine binding protein at the surface of murine and human leukemia cells, which could be directly or indirectly related to the polyamine transport apparatus.
Demographic correlates of variable egg survival for a tropical lizard

Anolis limifrons is a small iguanid lizard that is found in lowland rainforest in Central America. Important life attributes include early maturity (3–4 mo), multiple clutches of a single egg per breeding season, and low survival. Population turnover is essentially annual as less than 5% adults live more than one year. My objectives were to resolve the following specific questions: 1) Where are eggs laid? 2) Does survival differ among different types of oviposition site? 3) How is the survival of eggs related to the density and age distribution of lizards at different areas? Most eggs are laid beneath litter on the ground. Eggs laid aboveground are placed in accumulations of soil and litter in stumps, crevices in buttressed trees and vines, holes in trees, and on the tops of logs. Eggs were found in aboveground sites in proportion to the abundance of those sites. The major cause of mortality was predation by Solenopsis ants. Judging by the ratio of eggs known to have hatched to those that were predated, survival did not differ among the various types of oviposition site. Study areas with high egg survival in the middle of the wet season had relatively more young (<4–6 mo old) lizards at the end of the wet season than areas with low egg survival. The strong correlation between the relative number of young individuals and egg survival is a consequence of the seasonal cycle of growth and reproduction. Most eggs are laid in the wet season (May–December). Hatchlings complete growth during the dry season (January–April) and become reproductive adults in their second wet season. However, because hatchlings can grow to reproductive size in approximately 3 months, individuals that hatch early in the wet season may themselves produce offspring that will be <4–6 mo old in the late wet season. The relative survival of juveniles (eggs) and adults is an important datum for many theories of life history evolution. For A. limifrons, survival of eggs was two to three times more variable than survival of lizards on both temporal and spatial scales. Comparative data for reptiles are not available to put this information into an evolutionary prespective.
End-of-Life Personal Computer Systems in California: Analysis of Emissions and Infrastructure Needed to Recycle in the Future

The objectives of the present study are to estimate future quantities of electronic waste (e-waste), and to the estimate the total cost for e-waste recycling in California. To generate estimates, we used a time-series materials flow analysis model (MFAM). The model estimates future e-waste quantities by modeling the stages of production, usage, and disposal. We consider four scenarios for the estimation of future e-waste generation. To calculate cost for recycling, we used technical cost modeling (TCM). The results of the present research indicate that the outflow (recycling) amount of central processing units (CPUs) will increase and will reach approximately 8.5 million units per year in 2013, but the outflow (recycling) of cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors will decrease from 2004 in California. After the State of California enacted the ban on landfill disposal of e-waste, recycling became the most common end-of-life (EOL) option in California. Also, after 2005, the State of California will need more than 60 average-sized materials recovery facilities (MRFs) to recycle the number of personal computer systems generated
Dark soliton trains formed by visible pulse collisions in optical fibers

Abstract It is shown that, through the nonlinear collision of two visible pulses copropagating in an optical fiber, a high-frequency train of dark pulses form, which are well described by the analytic dark soliton solution. Numerical solutions of the nonlinear Schroedinger equation show that the solitons form without secondary pulses and their pulsewidths adiabatically broaden in concert with the slowly decreasing intensity of the background pulse upon which they are situated. For equal input pulse intensities it is shown that the dark pulses asymptotically approach the fundamental dark soliton.
Reactivity and regulation in cocaine-exposed neonates

Abstract This study examined behavioral and physiologic regulation in 14 full-term neonates who were exposed to cocaine antenatally. A group of 14 non-cocaine-exposed infants served as controls. Data on behavioral state, cardiac patterning (heart period and vagal tone), and habituation to a standardized stimulus were collected. There were no differences between cocaine-exposed and nonexposed infants in heart period or vagal tone during an undisturbed period. There were significant differences in behavioral state regulation: Cocaine-exposed infants displayed significantly greater state lability and shorter sleep bouts, fussed or cried more often, and spent less time asleep and more time in transitional states. Both groups responded to an auditory stimulus with shorter heart period, but cocaine-exposed neonates demonstrated a larger response. In addition, cocaine-exposed neonates displayed less behavioral response decrement to repeated presentations of the stimulus. Although there are limitations to attribution of these results to cocaine alone, the results are discussed in relation to prevailing clinical impressions of cocaine-exposed neonates.
Aqueous two-phase printing of cell-containing contractile collagen microgels.

Abstract This work describes the use of aqueous two-phase systems to print cell-containing contractile collagen microdroplets. The fully aqueous conditions enable convenient formation of sub-microliter ‘microgels’ that are much smaller than otherwise possible to fabricate while maintaining high cell viability. The produced microgels contract over several days, mimicking the behavior of macroscale contraction assays, which have been valued as an important biological readout for over three decades. Use of microgels not only reduces reagent consumption and increases throughput of the assay, but also improves transport of molecules into and out of the collagen matrix, thereby enabling efficient and more precise studies of timed stimulation profiles. Utility of the technology is demonstrated by analyzing the effects of TGF-β1 on gel contraction, and we demonstrate that brief ‘burst’ stimulation profiles in microgels prompt contraction of the matrix, a feature not observed in the conventional macroscale assay. The fully aqueous process also enables the integration of contractile collagen microgels within existing cell culture systems, and we demonstrate proof-of-principle experiments in which a contractile collagen droplet is fabricated in situ on an existing epithelial monolayer. The simplicity, versatility and ability to robustly produce collagen microgels should allow effective translation of this microengineering technology into a variety of research environments.
Pulmonary and systemic hemodynamic effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in conscious and morphine-chloralose-anesthetized dogs: Anesthetic influence on drug action

Abstract Pulmonary and systemic hemodynamic effects of Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol ( Δ 9 -THC) in conscious dogs and in those anesthetized with morphine (3 mg/kg, i.m.) plus α-chloralose (100 mg/kg, i.v.) were evaluate in thid study. A decrease in the heart rate, cardiac output (PBF) and a concomitant increase in the pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and right ventricular stroke work (RVSW) observed in conscious animals following the administration of Δ 9 -THC were qualitatively similar to the effects reported in dogs anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital; however, unlike in the pentobarbital group, hypotensive effects to THC were not evident in the consious animals. In contrast, the effect of Δ 9 -THC in morphine-chloralose dogs were different; in this group, Δ 9 -THC administration resulted in increases in the heart rate and PBF, and significant reductions in PAP, PVR and RVSW. Further, a decrease in the arterial blood pressure noted following THC administration was closely associated with a reduction in the total peripheral resistance in the morphine-chloralose group. The results of this study indicated that the pulmonary effects of THC in dogs may be related to its actions on the heart rate and differ qualitatively as well as quantitatively depending on the anesthetic used.
Penetration of cucumber leaves by Colletotrichum lagenarium is reduced in plants systemically protected by previous infection with the pathogen

Abstract Microscopic examination of whole mounts and sectioned leaf tissue indicated that penetration of cucumber leaves by Colletotrichum lagenarium was reduced in both resistant and susceptible cultivars when the plant was systematically protected by previous infection with the pathogen. Differences were not observed, however, in the number of appressoria produced on protected or unprotected leaves. The degree of protection was reduced by puncturing or abrading the leaf surface of the susceptible cultivars prior to inoculation, and protection was lost by removing a portion of the leaf's epidermal tissue and inoculating the exposed sites with the fungus. Protection was not effective at leaf sites with the epidermis removed even when low concentrations of inoculum were used. Removal of epidermis did not reduce resistance or protection of a resistant cultivar. The resistance of the cultivars Calypso, Addis and Liberty to anthracnose was not due to a reduction in the formation of appressoria or penetration, but was associated with rapid necrotization of penetrated cells. Infectious C. lagenarium was isolated from lesion-free inoculated areas on leaves of systematically-protected plants up to one week after inoculation.
Abstract LB-366: A role for hNDPK-B in breast cancer metastasisin vivo.

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Cancer cells promote angiogenesis early in tumorigenesis under mutagenic/hypoxic conditions that drive oncogene expression of pro-angiogenic proteins. Clinical data suggest that by the time women are diagnosed with breast cancer, micrometastases are extant but suppressed by the primary tumor. It is imperative that we discover how to suppress metastases at or before breast biopsy, lumpectomy or mastectomy. We have shown in vitro that human breast cancers secrete nucleoside diphosphate kinase (sNDPK), which generates ATP from ADP locally to act at ATP-P2Y receptors locally to regulate blood flow, cell migration, and vascular permeability consistent with intravasation and extravasation of cancer cells and angiogenic stimulation at the metastatic niche. The ability of ATP-P2 receptor stimulation to transactivate the endothelial VEGF receptor in the absence of VEGF suggests the possibility that cancer cell-secreted NDPK, endothelial P2Y receptors, and VEGF receptors interact as partners in tumor angiogenesis in vitro. Our in vitro data strongly suggest a role for NDPK blockers and P2-receptor antagonists in adjuvant therapy for breast cancer (US Patent No. 10/331,375). We have now extended our studies of purinergic regulation of angiogenesis in vivo in a breast cancer metastasis model in mice carrying luciferase-tagged human breast carcinoma cells (MDA-MB-231Luc+) to permit tracking of primary tumor development and tumor metastases. We hypothesized that orthotopic-human tumors growing in SCID mice modulate extracellular sNDPK-B levels to attract angiogenic growth, development and metastasis. Examination of serum using Western blot and an ELISA assay of our own design revealed that tumors secreted sNDPK-B in large amounts two weeks after subcutaneous injection of cancer cells in the mammary fat pad. There is a correlation between secreted NDPK-B and tumor size. We confirmed the activity of sNDPK-B as a phosphoprotein trans-phosphorylase. PCR studies suggest that in more aggressive tumors, expression of sNDPK-B mRNA is increased (r2=0.97), while there is no correlation between intracellular NDPK-B and extracellular sNDPK-B expression. Differential mRNA expression may be seen between primary and metastatic cells and could underscore the role of sNDPK-B in mediating metastatic tumor development. Studies underway with mice carrying tumors and implanted with osmotic drug-delivery pumps will determine the effect of NDPK-B blockers, purinergic receptor antagonists and combined therapy on tumor burden and metastasis development and regression. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-366.
Collaboration with the Epilepsy Patient

This article is a patient’s first-person account of drug therapy for epileptic seizures, written not for fellow patients but for physicians who treat epilepsy. Most patients’ accounts are descriptive and emotional, even sensational, intended to assure those who are subject to seizures that they should not be surprised or embarrassed by what happens to them (Schachter 1993). But here, the objective is to persuade physicians to attend more closely to their patients’ experiences when they prescribe drug therapies. The perspectives of physicians and patients are naturally sometimes different, even contrary. I want to argue that in cases of epilepsy, in particular, drug therapy should, in effect, be negotiated between physicians and patients, to ensure the right decisions are made on the basis of information that physicians can access no other way. Collaboration between physicians and patients has an additional bonus: people subject to seizures benefit from a greater sense of
A molecular orbital valence bond study of 3-methyl sydnone and 3-methyl pseudosydnone

A pair-excitation-multiconfigurational-self-consistent-field (PEMCSCF) study with 10 configurations has been carried out on 3-methyl-1,2,4-oxadiazolin-5-one (3-methyl pseudosydnone) which has normal covalent bonds but is isoelectronic with 3-methyl sydnone for which no single covalent valence bond structure can be drawn. The PEMCSCF results were found to be very similar for the two isoelectronic compounds and an attempt was made to represent the bonding of the sydnone in only two simple molecular-orbital-valence-bond (MOVB) configurations using a Luken-type correlating orbital. A compact minimum basis of Slater–Transform–Preuss functions fitted by six cartesian gaussian orbitals (STP–6G) is used to express the compact representation for chemical comparison to experiment. The molecular geometry was gradient-optimized at the single determinantal level using a 6–31G extended basis set. “Orthonormal Resonance Analysis” is given for the two dominant configurations by noting that the Boys–Reeves configuration interaction algorithm is identical to the Pauling valence bond algorithm except for use of orthogonal molecular orbitals instead of atomic hybrid orbitals. This equivalence permits use of PEMCSCF atomic charges, bond orders, and dipole moments in a slightly modified valence bond interpretation of the unusual bonding of this compound. Although forcing a larger PEMCSCF problem into a minimum basis and only two configurations raises the energy, chemical interpretation is simplified. This comparison between a mesoionic compound and an isoelectric compound with normal bonding offers new understanding of the mesoionic effect.
Quantifying Green Life: Grand Challenges in Plant Biophysics and Modeling

Biophysics is best defined as a mindset than as a specific subject matter (Nobel, 1974; Phillips et al., 2008). The biophysicist strives to quantify biological processes and to analyze them in terms of universal physico-chemical principles such as mass conservation, force balance, and thermodynamic equilibrium. Biophysics has played an important role in the growth of biology, especially in elucidating how the folded structure of proteins determines their function (Anfinsen, 1973; Dobson, 2003), but also in providing a solid foundation for electro-physiology, photosynthesis, respiration, and many other basic biological functions. The lasting contributions of physicists-turned-biologists such as Max Delbruck (Luria and Delbruck, 1943; Delbruck, 1970) and Francis Crick (Watson and Crick, 1953; Crick, 1970) illustrate the power of the physical perspective in biology.
Role of hyperinsulinemia in the pathogenesis of the polycystic ovary syndrome, and its clinical implications

The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent disorder affecting approximately 6% of women of reproductive age, and is characterized by anovulation and hyperandrogenism. It has also become apparent that a frequent feature of women with PCOS is insulin resistance accompanied by compensatory hyperinsulinemia, and increasing evidence suggests that hyperinsulinemia plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. This article will review (1) evidence indicating that insulin contributes to the hyperandrogenism of PCOS by stimulating ovarian androgen production and decreasing serum sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) concentrations; (2) possible direct effects of hyperinsulinemia on folliculogenesis; (3) the relationship between insulin and adrenal androgens in women; and (4) therapeutic and clinical implications of these findings.
DIASTEREOSELECTIVITY IN CHIRAL RUTHENIUM COMPLEXES OF BIDENTATE BISPHOSPHINE MONOXIDE LIGANDS : CONTROLLING EPIMERIZATION IN ALDEHYDE COMPLEXES AND 16 -ELECTRON INTERMEDIATES

Heterobidentate and hemilabile ligands involving P,O-donor chelates produce chiral metal centers when bound to arene−ruthenium complexes. This chirality in cymene complexes produces diastereotopic ...
Outcomes after cardiac arrest

The simplest, most easily determined, and most easily understood outcomes after cardiac arrest are survival and awakening. Awakening is defined by the patient's being able to follow commands or produce comprehensible speech. Both occur at specific times, thus lending themselves to life-table analyses. Unfortunately, these simple measures are not adequate to characterize the disability that may be present in those who survive and awaken after cardiac arrest. For such patients, measures of independence are needed. These measures often require longer follow-up, direct contact with patients, and a greater understanding of the instrument to be used than for the simple measures. Investigators must decide based on the goals of a particular study what outcomes are most appropriate and the amount of resources that they are willing to devote to outcome assessment. As initial step sin resuscitation research, there may be more to gain from studies of large numbers of patient evaluated with simple measures than small numbers of patients evaluated intensively with more detailed measures.
Influenza virus in sectioned tissues.

SummaryParticles having the known dimensions of the influenza virus are observed in electron micrographs of thin sections cut from infected chorioallantoic membranes and mouse lungs. These particles are in groups and clusters apparently developing from the borders of membrane cells and from the walls of the alveoli.
Shape analysis of a reference cement

Abstract Recently, techniques for acquiring, analyzing, and using 3-D shape information for aggregates (sand, gravel) have been developed and demonstrated. These mathematical techniques, based on spherical harmonic coefficient analysis, have been applied to X-ray computed tomography images. X-ray microtomographic images of cement particles are required to be able to apply these same mathematical techniques to analyze Portland cement particle shape. Such images are available in the Visible Cement Database for a single reference cement. Actual cement images, as well as some quantitative results on the nonsphericity of the particles, are given here. Three-dimensional cement particle shapes have never been available before. A demonstration of how real cement particle shapes will change the CEMHYD3D cement hydration model is also given.
Responses of resident marsh fishes to stages of Phragmites australis invasion in three mid Atlantic estuaries

Modification of brackish marshes by nonindigenousPhragmites australis has occurred across a broad geographical area in eastern North America. Among its effects on marsh processes,Phragmites may be increasingly unfavorable to marsh surface fishes as its invasion progresses within an estuary. We assessed the effect of thePhragmites invasion on resident marsh surface fishes by examining the population response ofFundulus heteroclitus (mummichog, 5–48 mm TL) andF. luciae (spotfin killifish, 5–41 mm TL) to four distinct invasion stages in three estuaries of the U.S. mid Atlantic region (New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland). We documented precipitous declines in mean catch per unit effort ofF. heteroclitus in pit traps from natural marsh (51.6), through initial (33.8), early (12.3), and late invasion stages (2.4) across all sites. A similar pattern was documented forF. luciae, with mean catch per unit effort in pit traps declining from natural marsh (48.9), through initial (39.1), early (9.3), and late invasion stages (2.7). Population structure of both species also changed somewhat across invasion stages such that we collected a narrower size range of individuals of both species from late invasion stages. Patterns suggest that as thePhragmites invasion progresses, there is a decline in habitat function for larval and juvenileF. heteroclitus and an increased risk of extirpation ofF. luciae from brackish marshes along the east coast of the U.S.
Genetic Approaches to Studying Protein Synthesis: Effects of Mutations at Ψ516 and A535 in Escherichia coli 16S rRNA

A genetic system for the study of ribosomal RNA function and structure was developed. First, the ribosome binding sequence of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene and the message binding sequence of 16S ribosomal RNA were randomly mutated and alternative highly functional sequences were selected and characterized. From this set of mutants, a single clone was chosen and subjected to a second round of mutagenesis to optimize the specificity of the system. In the resulting system, plasmid-encoded ribosomes efficiently and exclusively translate specific mRNA containing the appropriate ribosome binding sequences. This system allows facile isolation and analysis of mutations that would normally be lethal and allows direct selection of rRNA mutants with predetermined levels of ribosome function. The system was used to examine the effects of mutations at the sole pseudouridine (Psi) in Escherichia coli 16S rRNA which is located at position 516 of the conserved 530 loop. The nucleotide opposite Psi516 in the hairpin, A535, was also mutated. The data show that a pyrimidine (Psi or C) is required at position 516, while substitutions at position 535 reduce ribosome function by < 50%. A requirement for base pair formation between Psi516 and A535 was not indicated.
Coupling between motor proteins determines dynamic behaviors of motor protein assemblies

Transport of intracellular cargos by multiple microtubule motor proteins is believed to be a common and significant phenomenon in vivo, yet signatures of the microscopic dynamics of multiple motor systems are only now beginning to be resolved. Understanding these mechanisms largely depends on determining how grouping motors affect their association with microtubules and stepping rates, and hence, cargo run lengths and velocities. We examined this problem using a discrete state transition rate model of collective transport. This model accounts for the structural and mechanical properties in binding/unbinding and stepping transitions between distinct microtubule-bound configurations of a multiple motor system. In agreement with previous experiments that examine the dynamics of two coupled kinesin-1 motors, the energetic costs associated with deformations of mechanical linkages within a multiple motor assembly are found to reduce the system's overall microtubule affinity, producing attenuated mean cargo run lengths compared to cases where motors are assumed to function independently. With our present treatment, this attenuation largely stems from reductions in the microtubule binding rate and occurs even when mechanical coupling between motors is weak. Thus, our model suggests that, at least for a variety of kinesin-dependent transport processes, the net 'gains' obtained by grouping motors together may be smaller than previously expected.
Analysis of Microtubule Curvature

The microtubule cytoskeleton in living cells generate and resist mechanical forces to mediate fundamental cell processes, including cell division and migration. Recent advances in digital fluorescence microscopy have enabled the direct observation of bending of individual microtubules in living cells, which has enabled quantitative estimation of the mechanical state of the microtubule array. Although a variety of mechanisms have been proposed, the precise origins of microtubule deformation in living cells remain largely obscure. To investigate these mechanisms and their relative importance in cellular processes, a method is needed to accurately quantify microtubule bending within living cells. Here we describe a method for quantification of bending, using digital fluorescence microscope images to estimate the distribution of curvature in the microtubule. Digital images of individual microtubules can be used to obtain a set of discrete x-y coordinates along the microtubule contour, which is then used to estimate the curvature distribution. Due to system noise and digitization error, the estimate will be inaccurate to some degree. To quantify the inaccuracy, a computational model is used to simulate both the bending of thermally driven microtubules and their observation by digital fluorescence microscopy. This allows for direct comparison between experimental and simulated images, a method which we call model convolution microscopy. We assess the accuracy of various methods and present a suitable method for estimating the curvature distribution for thermally driven semiflexible polymers. Finally, we discuss extensions of the method to quantify microtubule curvature in living cells.
Epidemiology of Malignant Mesothelioma—An Outline

In the 1960s and 1970s, well designed case-referent studies put beyond doubt that exposure to airborne asbestos fibres was a cause of malignant mesothelioma. Some 35 cohort mortality studies in a large variety of industries during the 20-year period, 1974-1994, showed a wide range of outcomes, but in general that the risk was higher in exposures which included amphiboles rather than chrysotile alone. Real progress began, however, with discoveries along several lines: the link between pleural changes and mineralogy, the concept and importance of biopersistence, the developments in counting and typing mineral fibres in lung tissue, and data on amphibole mining in South Africa and Australia for comparison with that on chrysotile in Canada and Italy. This led to the recognition of the potential contamination in North America of chrysotile with tremolite. A survey in Canada in 1980-1988 and other surveys demonstrated that crocidolite, amosite, and tremolite could explain almost all cases of mesothelioma. Effective confirmation of this was finally achieved with data on vermiculite miners in Libby, Montana, in the years 1983-1999, where exposure was to tremolite-actinolite and/or other amphibole fibres alone.
BP1, a Homeodomain-Containing Isoform of DLX4, Represses the β-Globin Gene

In earlier studies we identified a putative repressor of the human β-globin gene, termed beta protein 1 (BP1), which binds to two silencer DNA sequences upstream of the adult human β-globin gene and to a negative control region upstream of the adult δ-globin gene. Further studies demonstrated an inverse correlation between the binding affinity of the BP1 protein for the distal β-globin silencer sequence and the severity of sickle cell anemia, suggesting a possible role for BP1 in determining the production of hemoglobin S. We have now cloned a cDNA expressing the BP1 protein. Sequencing revealed that BP1 is a member of the homeobox gene family and belongs to the subfamily called Distal-less (DLX), genes important in early development. Further analysis showed that BP1 is an isoform of DLX4. BP1 protein has repressor function towards the β-globin promoter, acting through the two β-globin DNA silencers, demonstrated in transient transfection assays. Strong BP1 expression is restricted to placenta and kidney tissue, with no expression in 48 other human tissues. BP1 exhibits regulated expression in the human erythroid cell line MB-02, where its expression decreases upon induction of the β-globin gene. BP1 is thus the first member of the DLX family with known DNA binding sites and a function in globin gene regulation.
Reinforcement or Reactance? Examining the Effect of an Explicit Persuasive Appeal Following an Entertainment‐Education Narrative

Entertainment-education interventions frequently include an explicit persuasive appeal, such as an epilogue, at their conclusion. This may help to overcome potential limitations of narrative persuasion by highlighting and clarifying the underlying message. Despite this potential, an explicit persuasive appeal may also undermine the subtle approach that distinguishes narrative persuasion and thereby induce reactance and/or counterarguing. The purpose of this study was to experimentally test these two possible outcomes. In particular, the effect of an explicit persuasive appeal in the context of a dramatic television program about the dangers of drinking and driving was examined. Overall, results revealed that the narrative and explicit persuasive appeal interact to influence drinking-and-driving attitudes. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Release and bioavailability of C, N, P Se, and Fe following viral lysis of a marine chrysophyte

The potential importance of the viral lysis of phytoplankton for nutrient and carbon cycling has been acknowledged, but no quantitative assessments of this phenomenon exist. Radiotracer experiments examined the release and bioavailability of C, N, P, Fe, and Se following viral lysis of the "brown tide" chrysophyte Aureococcus anophagefferens. Photochemical effects on the dissolved-particulate partitioning and biological uptake of virally released elements were also investigated. Viral lysis of A. anophagefferens released 50% mon C and Se than uninfected control cells to the dissolved phase, while N, P, and Fe remained in the particulate phase. There was a significant inverse correlation between A. anophagefferens and bacterial densities, as well as an increase in particulate organic nitrogen levels in cultures during viral lysis. These observations indicate that released dissolved organic matter supported bacterial growth and may be a pathway by which various elements are diverted in microbial food webs. Dissolved nutrients released by viral lysis were accumulated to varying degrees by natural assemblages of marine bacteria and cultured diatoms, and vitally regenerated N and P relieved diatom nutrient limitation. During a 4-wk incubation, 80% of C and P within cell lysis debris was released to the dissolved phase, likely due to bacterial activity. Photochemical degradation of cell lysis debris enhanced dissolved levels of Se (100%) and Fe (50%) and reduced total dissolved C by 15%. Photochemistry doubled the bioavailability of virally released Se to diatoms, while decreasing the bioavailability of C to bacteria threefold. The viral lysis of an A. anophagefferens bloom in the field could release 40 mu M dissolved organic carbon and rapidly transfer other released elements to bacteria. Such occurrences may significantly affect water column chemistry, species composition, and succession within marine plankton communities.
Redox Stable Anodes for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) can convert chemical energy from the fuel directly to electrical energy with high efficiency and fuel flexibility. Ni-based cermets have been the most widely adopted anode for SOFCs. However, the conventional Ni-based anode has low tolerance to sulfur-contamination, is vulnerable to deactivation by carbon build-up (coking) from direct oxidation of hydrocarbon fuels, and suffers volume instability upon redox cycling. Among these limitations, the redox instability of the anode is particularly important and has been intensively studied since the SOFC anode may experience redox cycling during fuel cell operations even with the ideal pure hydrogen as the fuel. This review aims to highlight recent progresses on improving redox stability of the conventional Ni-based anode through microstructure optimization and exploration of alternative ceramic-based anode materials.