cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
English Language Teaching in Vocational Senior Secondary Schools in China

This chapter reports on a 2009 qualitative inquiry into English language teaching at three vocational senior secondary schools in a big industrial city in China. The qualitative study extends a quantitative study which investigated students’ English language learning motivation and their language achievement through a sample of 707 participants from the same three schools. In the current qualitative study, 23 student participants were selected from the same cohort of participants, using purposive sampling. In addition to the student participants, six teachers as well as six graduate students were selected via purposive or snowball sampling. Data collection was conducted by way of classroom observation, semi-structured interview and document analysis. The current study investigates curriculum discrepancies existing between the expected implemented English curriculum and the current implemented English curriculum at micro classroom levels at vocational senior secondary schools in terms of teachers’ English teaching. The research indicates that deficiencies exist in teachers’ classroom-based curriculum implementation and that a priority of needs should be established.
Test Administration: Methodology

This article describes the meaning and significance of standardization in testing, including both paper-and-pencil and computer-based tests. Issues discussed include instructions to test takers, accommodation or test modification for persons with disabilities, taking a test in a second language, test security, cheating, and test preparation (coaching). Test scoring, norms, performance standards, test equating, and calibration are treated briefly. Principles of computer-based adaptive testing are discussed.
Functions Incorporating Oxygen and Another Chalcogen

This work covers transformations to assemble oxygen–carbon (sp3)–chalcogen moieties. Various methods are included to convert O,O-acetals, enols, and ethers to their corresponding 1,3-chalcogen-acetals. Reactions involving rearrangements, cycloaddtions, and elaboration of the chalcogen framework are discussed. Methods for oxidation of dicoordinate sulfur to tri- and tetracoordinate sulfur are also included. α,β-Epoxy sulfur derivatives are afforded by a variety of epoxidation conditions.
Novel synthesis of lightweight geopolymer matrices from fly ash through carbonate-based activation

Abstract This paper describes a novel synthesis route for porous geopolymers based on carbonate-based activation of fly ash as the primary source material. The aqueous dissolution of sodium carbonate supplies NaOH which provides the alkaline medium for fly ash geopolymerization (along with externally supplied sodium silicate also, if needed). The CO2 released from the low temperature (∼100 °C) decomposition of carbonates formed as reaction products, acts as the pore-forming agent. The dosage of the alkaline agents is tailored to obtain a porous material with large enough porosity (∼50%), and sufficient mechanical strength (∼15 MPa) and thermal conductivity (∼0.3 W/m-K) so as to be used as structural/insulating elements in buildings. Detailed analysis of microstructure and reaction products reveals the presence of sodium carbonate crystals in the matrix, recrystallized from the initial carbonates added. Determination of CO2-equivalent emissions shows that these matrices, despite releasing some amount of CO2 in the pore-forming process, are more sustainable than similar matrices synthesized from portland cement or geopolymerized using same starting materials and other activating agents.
Aquaculture, Exaptation, and the Origin of mcr-Positive Colistin Resistance.

Ed. Note: The authors of the published article did not feel that a response was necessary. The interesting work by Shen et al. ([1][1]) discusses the pathogenicity of Aeromonas for freshwater fish in passing but does not mention that Aeromonas are not only pathogenic for freshwater fish but also
Abstract # 3107 A role for hypocretin/orexin in metabolic and sleep abnormalities in a mouse model of non-metastatic breast cancer

Among cancer patients, metabolic and sleep abnormalities are significant problems that are associated with decreased quality of life and increased mortality. In spite of the abundance of metabolic and sleep abnormalities in cancer patients, the mechanisms by which tumors alter metabolism and sleep remain unknown. Utilizing a non-metastatic murine breast cancer model, we investigated the relationships among immune, metabolic, and sleep abnormalities. Tumor bearing mice displayed increased serum interleukin-6 concentrations, concurrent with hyperglycemia, altered gluconeogenesis/glycolysis gene expression, and sleep abnormalities. To test whether tumor induced elevations in IL-6 were responsible for the metabolic and sleep abnormalities observed in our study, we reduced IL-6 signaling by administering a monoclonal antibody against IL-6. Despite successfully suppressing IL-6 signaling, metabolic and sleep abnormalities remained. Next, we investigated hypocretin/orexin (HO) signaling in the lateral hypothalamus as this population of neurons is known to regulate both metabolism and sleep, and observed increased HO activity. We administered a dual HO receptor antagonist (almorexant) to test whether the increased HO signaling was driving the altered hepatic glucose production and hyperglycemia. Administration of almorexant rescued the tumor-induced deficits in hyperglycemia, hepatic glucose production, and improved sleep quality, independent of IL-6. Together, our data demonstrate a novel mechanism by which non-metastatic tumors can promote energy availability, and suggest that targeting HO system may represent a potential intervention for breast cancer patients with metabolic dysfunctions.
Au@Cu Core–Shell Nanocubes with Controllable Sizes in the Range of 20–30 nm for Applications in Catalysis and Plasmonics

Predominantly covered by a single type of {100} facets, Cu nanocubes are attractive catalytic material toward reactions such as electrochemical reduction of CO2. Here we report a seed-mediated approach to the facile synthesis of Au@Cu core–shell nanocubes with hexadecylamine and Cl– serving as capping agents toward the {100} facets of Cu and glucose as a reducing agent. The large (12%) lattice mismatch between Cu and Au led to the localized epitaxial growth of Cu shells on the Au seeds and the formation of nanocubes with randomly distributed Au cores. Compared to the same synthesis in the absence of Au seeds, the reduction of Cu(II) ions was greatly accelerated in the presence of Au seeds because of the autocatalytic surface reduction. It was also found that the structure and morphology of the products were highly dependent on the concentration of Cu(II) precursor in the reaction solution. Nanoplates rather than nanocubes were obtained when the concentration of Cu(II) precursor was reduced down to a certa...
Abstract P051: College Students’ Perception and Beliefs Regarding Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Mixed-Methods Study

Background: Many college students underestimate their cardiovascular risk while engaging in high-risk behaviors such as consumption of high-fat foods, smoking, alcohol abuse, and sedentary lifestyl...
Tolerance of corn to PRE- and POST-applied photosystem II–inhibiting herbicides

Weed control in corn traditionally has relied on atrazine as a foundational tool to control problematic weeds. However, the recent discovery of atrazine in aquifers and other water sources increases the likelihood of more strict restrictions on its use. Field-based research trials to find atrazine alternatives were conducted in 2017 and 2018 in Fayetteville, AR, by testing the tolerance of corn to PRE and POST applications of different photosystem II (PSII) inhibitors alone or in combination with mesotrione or S-metolachlor. All experiments were designed as a two-factor factorial, randomized complete block, with the two factors being (1) PSII-inhibiting herbicide and (2) the herbicide added to create the mixture. The PSII-inhibiting herbicides were prometryn, ametryn, simazine, fluometuron, metribuzin, linuron, diuron, atrazine, and propazine. The second factor consisted of either no additional herbicide, S-metolachlor, or mesotrione. Treatments were applied immediately after planting in the PRE experiments and to 30-cm–tall corn for the POST experiments. For the PRE study, low levels of injury (<15%) were observed at 14 and 28 d after application and corn height was negatively affected by the PSII-inhibiting herbicide applied. PRE-applied fluometuron- and ametryn-containing treatments consistently caused injury to corn, often exceeding 5%. Because of low injury levels caused by all treatments, crop density and yield did not differ from that of the nontreated plants. For the POST study, crop injury, relative height, and relative yield were affected by PSII-inhibiting herbicide and the herbicide added. Ametryn-, diuron-, linuron-, propazine-, and prometryn-containing treatments caused at least 25% injury to corn in at least 1 site-year. All PSII-inhibiting herbicides, except metribuzin and simazine when applied alone, caused yield loss in corn when compared with atrazine alone. Diuron-, linuron-, metribuzin-, and simazine-containing treatments applied PRE and metribuzin- and simazine-containing treatments applied POST should be investigated further as atrazine replacements.Nomenclature: Ametryn; atrazine; diuron; fluometuron; linuron; metribuzin; prometryn; propazine; simazine; barnyardgrass; Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv.; Palmer amaranth, Amaranthus palmeri (S.) Watson; corn, Zea mays L.
Validation of the SHEA/IDSA severity criteria to predict poor outcomes among inpatients and outpatients with Clostridioides difficile infection.

Objective To determine whether the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) severity criteria adequately predicts poor outcomes. Design Retrospective validation study. Setting and participants Patients with CDI in the Veterans’ Affairs Health System from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2016. Methods For the 2010 criteria, patients with leukocytosis or a serum creatinine (SCr) value ≥1.5 times the baseline were classified as severe. For the 2018 criteria, patients with leukocytosis or a SCr value ≥1.5 mg/dL were classified as severe. Poor outcomes were defined as hospital or intensive care admission within 7 days of diagnosis, colectomy within 14 days, or 30-day all-cause mortality; they were modeled as a function of the 2010 and 2018 criteria separately using logistic regression. Results We analyzed data from 86,112 episodes of CDI. Severity was unclassifiable in a large proportion of episodes diagnosed in subacute care (2010, 58.8%; 2018, 49.2%). Sensitivity ranged from 0.48 for subacute care using 2010 criteria to 0.73 for acute care using 2018 criteria. Areas under the curve were poor and similar (0.60 for subacute care and 0.57 for acute care) for both versions, but negative predictive values were >0.80. Conclusions Model performances across care settings and criteria versions were generally poor but had reasonably high negative predictive value. Many patients in the subacute-care setting, an increasing fraction of CDI cases, could not be classified. More work is needed to develop criteria to identify patients at risk of poor outcomes.
MANTIS: time-shifted prefetching of YouTube videos to reduce peak-time cellular data usage

The load on wireless cellular networks is not uniformly distributed through the day, and is significantly higher during peak periods. In this context, we present MANTIS, a time-shifted prefetching solution that prefetches content during off-peak periods of network connectivity. We specifically focus on YouTube given that it represents a significant portion of overall wireless data-usage. We make the following contributions: first, we collect and analyze a real-life dataset of YouTube watch history from 206 users comprised of over 1.8 million videos spanning over a 1-year period and present insights on a typical user's viewing behavior; second, we develop an accurate prediction algorithm using a K-nearest neighbor classifier approach; third, we evaluate the prefetching algorithm on two different datasets and show that MANTIS is able to reduce the traffic during peak periods by 34%; and finally, we develop a proof-of-concept prototype for MANTIS and perform a user study.
What are the predictors of emergency department utilization and readmission following extremity bone sarcoma resection

INTRODUCTION Treatment for bone sarcomas are large undertakings. Emergency department (ED) visits and unplanned hospital readmissions are a potential target for cost containment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for ED visits and unplanned readmissions following extremity bone sarcoma surgery. METHODS Data from Optum Labs Data Warehouse, a national administrative claims database, was analyzed to identify patients with extremity bone sarcomas from 2006 to 2017. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with ED visits and readmissions. RESULTS Of 1390 (743 males, 647 female) adult patients, 137 (12%) visited the ED and 245 (18%) were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. The most common indication for ED visits (n = 63, 45.9%) and readmission (n = 119, 48.5%) were complications of surgery. Length of stay >10 days was associated with ED utilization (OR, 1.83; P = .01) and readmission (OR, 4.47; P < .001). CONCLUSION One in ten patients will use the ED, and one in five patients will be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge following extremity bone sarcoma surgery. Length of stay was associated with ED visits and readmission. These patients could be targeted with alternative management strategies in the outpatient setting with early clinical follow-up to minimize readmission.
TRADE LIBERALIZATION AND RACIAL ANIMUS

Since the year 2000, the number of recorded hate groups in the United States has increased by more than 50 %. Some argue that the strain caused by unemployment or other socioeconomic stressors can play a critical role in the prevalence of extremist groups and crimes. We examine whether a change in U.S. policy to normalize trade relations with China, which fueled a surge in import competition that led to higher levels of unemployment, affected the presence of hate crimes. Using a difference‐in‐differences model and an event‐study framework, we find that areas most exposed to import competition experienced an increase in the number of anti‐Black hate crimes. We also find a qualitatively similar effect on the number of active hate groups in response to import competition. This result holds pre‐ and post‐the Great Recession and is consistent across levels of aggregation. The results are consistent and robust to various controls and specifications. (JEL F13, F16, Z13)
Surface antigen-guided CRISPR screens identify regulators of myeloid leukemia differentiation

Lack of cellular differentiation is a hallmark of many human cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Strategies to overcome such a differentiation blockade are an approach for treating AML. To identify targets for differentiation-based therapies, we applied an integrated cell surface-based CRISPR platform to assess genes involved in maintaining the undifferentiated state of leukemia cells. Here we identify the RNA-binding protein ZFP36L2 as a critical regulator of AML maintenance and differentiation. Mechanistically, ZFP36L2 interacts with the 3' untranslated region of key myeloid maturation genes, including the ZFP36 paralogs, to promote their mRNA degradation and suppress terminal myeloid cell differentiation. Genetic inhibition of ZFP36L2 restores the mRNA stability of these targeted transcripts and ultimately triggers myeloid differentiation in leukemia cells. Epigenome profiling of several individuals with primary AML revealed enhancer modules near ZFP36L2 that associated with distinct AML cell states, establishing a coordinated epigenetic and post-transcriptional mechanism that shapes leukemic differentiation.
A scoping review of transition interventions for young adults with sickle cell disease.

Standardized programming for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) transitioning from pediatric to adult-centered care does not currently exist, resulting in high rates of mortality and morbidity. This scoping review examines and evaluates the current literature on SCD transition programs and interventions. Eligible studies described an existing program for individuals with SCD aged 12-29 years preparing to transition. The Evidence Project risk-of-bias tool was used to assess article quality. We identified 30 eligible articles, of which, only two were randomized controlled trials. Many studies have incomplete reports of feasibility information, such as completion rates, patient characteristics, and attrition; all studies were limited to a single institution; and most studies were rated high for risk of bias. Progress has been made in designing and gathering initial evaluation data for SCD transition programs; however, there is a need for higher quality studies, consistent assessment, and better dissemination of programs.
Interaction between the pulmonary stretch receptor and pontine control of expiratory duration.

Medial parabrachial nucleus (mPBN) neuronal activity plays a key role in controlling expiratory (E)-duration (TE). Pulmonary stretch receptor (PSR) activity during the E-phase prolongs TE. The aims of this study were to characterize the interaction between the PSR and mPBN control of TE and underlying mechanisms. Decerebrated mechanically ventilated dogs were studied. The mPBN subregion was activated by electrical stimulation via bipolar microelectrode. PSR afferents were activated by low-level currents applied to the transected central vagus nerve. Both stimulus-frequency patterns during the E-phase were synchronized to the phrenic neurogram; TE was measured. A functional mathematical model for the control of TE and extracellular recordings from neurons in the preBotzinger/Botzinger complex (preBC/BC) were used to understand mechanisms. Findings show that the mPBN gain-modulates, via attenuation, the PSR-mediated reflex. The model suggested functional sites for attenuation and neuronal data suggested correlates. The PSR- and PB-inputs appear to interact on E-decrementing neurons, which synaptically inhibit pre-I neurons, delaying the onset of the next I-phase.
Extrachromosomal DNA: An Emerging Hallmark in Human Cancer

Human genes are arranged on 23 pairs of chromosomes, but in cancer, tumor-promoting genes and regulatory elements can free themselves from chromosomes and relocate to circular, extrachromosomal pieces of DNA (ecDNA). ecDNA, because of its nonchromosomal inheritance, drives high-copy-number oncogene amplification and enables tumors to evolve their genomes rapidly. Furthermore, the circular ecDNA architecture fundamentally alters gene regulation and transcription, and the higher-order organization of ecDNA contributes to tumor pathogenesis. Consequently, patients whose cancers harbor ecDNA have significantly shorter survival. Although ecDNA was first observed more than 50 years ago, its critical importance has only recently come to light. In this review, we discuss the current state of understanding of how ecDNAs form and function as well as how they contribute to drug resistance and accelerated cancer evolution. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Pathology: Mechanisms of Disease, Volume 17 is January 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
12 – Dynamics and Control of Euler-Bernoulli Beams

The chapter presents the governing equations and eigenvalue problem of uniform Euler–Bernoulli beams, and the related MATLAB functions from the toolbox. Eigenvalue problems play an essential role in the dynamic analysis of flexible structures. An eigenfunction associated with a nonzero eigenvalue is called a flexible mode and an eigenfunction associated with a zero eigenvalue is called a rigid-body mode. The chapter provides MATLAB function—setbeam—for specifying the parameters and boundary conditions of an Euler–Bernoulli beam, and for computing the beam eigensolutions. Many approximate methods are available for modeling and dynamic analysis of general structural systems, among which are finite element methods, finite difference methods, and Rayleigh–Ritz methods. The basic idea of the Rayleigh–Ritz method is to approximate the displacement of a nonuniform beam by an N -term series. The admissible functions of a beam are those that are differentiable and satisfy all geometric boundary conditions of the beam. Geometric boundary conditions are those that only involve displacement and rotation.
Transcriptional, Post-Transcriptional and Post-Translational Regulation of a Nicotiana Stylar Transmitting Tissue-Specific Arabinogalactan-Protein

Nicotiana tabacum, one of its progenitors N. sylvestris and its self-incompatible relative N. alata have structurally very similar pistils. They have an elongated style connecting the stigma and the ovary in which the ovules develop and fertilization takes place (Fig 1). Pollen grains hydrate and germinate on the stigmatic papilla, each grain extruding a pollen tube. Pollen tubes elongate directionally in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the stigmatic and the stylar transmitting tissues until they reach the ovary. In the ovary, pollen tubes turn from their basal growth orientation to enter the ovules and penetrate the embryo sacs to deliver the male gametes for fertilization. Pistillate tissues along the pollen tube growth pathway are packed with highly secretory cells, and they produce an ECM enriched with sugar- and lipid-containing compounds through which pollen tubes elongate. Pollen tube growth in the pistil is extremely efficient (e.g., reaching a rate of 1 cm/hour in maize). In N. tabacum, pollen tubes elongate at an approximate rate of 0.15 cm/hour under normal greenhouse conditions (Wang et al 1996). However, N. tabacum pollen tubes elongated at a rate of 235 μm/hour under what was considered to be the most optimal in vitro conditions reported (Read et al 1993). The pistil-secreted ECM is thus believed to aid in both the efficiency and the directionality of the pollen tube growth process. [For reviews on pollen tube growth, see Lord and Sanders (1992), Mascarenhas (1993), Cheung (1996a,b), Taylor and Hepler(1997))].
Physiological adaptations for nitrogen use efficiency in sorghum

Known high nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE1, biomass per unit plant N) China lines of sorghum, China 17 and San Chi San, were compared with relatively low NUE1 U.S. lines, CK60 and Tx623, for both their physiological and biochemical adaptations to tolerate an imposed N stress in the greenhouse. Assimilation efficiency indices (ACi) were significantly greater for the China lines than the U.S. lines at both low and high soil nitrogen levels by about two-fold. Chlorophyll levels in leaves of high NUE1 lines were lower at both soil N treatments. Immunoblots of leaf extracts of sorghum subjected to N stress indicated reduced levels of both phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPcase) and ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase (Rubisco) while NADP-malic enzyme levels, in general, appear not to be affected. However, NUE1 China line, China 17, retained a significantly greater PEPcase activity than the less-NUE1 U.S. lines, and also the NUE1 China line San Chi San, when grown under N stress conditions. This suggests that PEPcase and enzymes associated with phosphoenolpyruvate synthesis, perhaps, are significant factors in maintaining relatively high photosynthesis under N stress. Carbon isotope ratios of leaves from sorghum genotypes, as indicated by δ13C values, became less negative when sorghum plants were grown under N stress, but a genotypic variation either at a low or high N was not observed.
On Cryptographic Techniques for On-line Bankcard Payment Transactions Using Open Networks

Recently, two major bankcard payment instrument operators VISA and MasterCard published specifications for securing bankcard payment transactions on open networks for open scrutiny. (VISA: Secure Transaction Technology, STT; MasterCard: Secure Electronic Payment Protocol, SEPP.) Based on their success in operating the existing on-line payment systems, both proposals use advanced cryptographic technologies to supply some security services that are well-understood to be inadequate in open networks, and otherwise specify systems similar to today's private-network versions. In this paper we reason that when an open network is used for underlying electronic commerce some subtle vulnerabilities will emerge and the two specifications are seen not in anticipation of them. A number of weaknesses are found as a result of missing and misuse of security services. Missing and misused services include: authentication, non-repudiation, integrity, and timeliness. We identify problems and devise solutions while trying to keep the current successful working style of financial institutions being respected.
Heparan Sulphate Proteoglycan as Mediator of Some Adhesive Responses and Cytoskeletal Reorganization of Cells on Fibronectin Matrices: Independent Versus Cooperative Functions

Fibronectin is a multifunctional glycoprotein which promotes the adhesion of a variety of cell types to extracellular matrices, including artificial tissue culture substrata. Biochemical analyses of substratum adhesion sites indicated important functions for cell-surface heparan sulphate proteoglycan (HS-PG) in directly mediating adhesive responses by the binding of heparan sulphate sequences to fibronectin. In addition, fibronectin has a binding domain for a cell surface 'receptor' (possibly a 140K glycoprotein) important in these responses. To differentiate the relative importance of these two binding activities, a proteolytically generated cell-binding fragment of fibronectin has been isolated which binds to the 140K 'receptor' but not to HS or to collagen. Platelet factor 4 (PF4), a tetravalent HS-binding protein, provides a model of the tetravalent HS-binding activity of fibronectin, as supported by affinity chromatography studies (these studies also reveal the complexity of HS-PG metabolism in adhesion sites). Responses are measured on substrata coated with the cell-binding fragment of fibronectin, intact fibronectin, or PF4, singly or in combination. Fibroblast-like BALB/c 3T3 cells form both close and tight-focal adhesive contacts with associated microfilament stress fibres on intact fibronectin. Whereas HS-PG binding appears to mediate the formation of close contacts and linear microfilament bundles, a cooperative relationship exists between the HS- and the cell-binding activities of the intact fibronectin molecule in the formation of focal contacts and stress fibres. Human dermal fibroblasts generate different adhesive responses on HS-binding or cell-binding substrata, which are dependent on whether cells have been grown in medium with ascorbate to maximize production of their own collagenous matrix. As with 3T3 cells, focal contact and stress fibre formations of dermal cells require both binding activities in the intact fibronectin molecule. A third system consists of neuroblastoma tumour cells which adhere and extend neurites on fibronectin. Cell-body adherence, but not neurite extension, occurs on HS-binding matrices whereas neurite extension requires only fibronectin's cell-binding activity; the responses of primary peripheral neurons were exactly the opposite and CNS neurons did not respond at all. These studies indicate the diversity of molecular mechanisms by which various cells interact with the multifunctional fibronectin molecule in order to perform specialized functions, as well as the independent or cooperative functions of heparan sulphate proteoglycan on the cell surface in mediating these responses.
Oxygen transport pathways in Ruddlesden–Popper structured oxides revealed via in situ neutron diffraction

Ruddlesden–Popper structured oxides, general form An+1BnO3n+1, consist of n-layers of the perovskite structure stacked in between rock-salt layers, and have potential application in solid oxide electrochemical cells and ion transport membrane reactors. Three materials with constant Co/Fe ratio, LaSrCo0.5Fe0.5O4−δ (n = 1), La0.3Sr2.7CoFeO7−δ (n = 2), and LaSr3Co1.5Fe1.5O10−δ (n = 3) were synthesized and studied via in situ neutron powder diffraction between 765 K and 1070 K at a pO2 of 10−1 atm. The structures were fit to a tetragonal I4/mmm space group, and were found to have increased total oxygen vacancy concentration in the order La0.3Sr2.7CoFeO7−δ > LaSr3Co1.5Fe1.5O10−δ > LaSrCo0.5Fe0.5O4−δ, following the trend predicted for charge compensation upon increasing Sr2+/La3+ ratio. The oxygen vacancies within the material were almost exclusively located within the perovskite layers for all of the crystal structures with only minimal vacancy formation in the rock-salt layer. Analysis of the concentration of these vacancies at each distinct crystallographic site and the anisotropic atomic displacement parameters for the oxygen sites reveals potential preferred oxygen transport pathways through the perovskite layers.
Spatial delay-difference models for estimating spatiotemporal variation in juvenile production and population abundance

Many important ecological questions require accounting for spatial variation in demographic rates (e.g., survival) and population variables (e.g., abundance per unit area). However, ecologists have few spatial modelling approaches that (i) fit directly to spatially referenced data, (ii) represent population dynamics explicitly and mechanistically, and (iii) estimate parameters using rigorous statistical methods. We therefore demonstrate a new and computationally efficient approach to spatial modelling that uses random fields in place of the random variables typically used in spatially aggregated models. We adapt this approach to delay-difference dynamics to estimate the impact of fishing and natural mortality, recruitment, and individual growth on spatial population dynamics for a fish population. In particular, we develop this approach to estimate spatial variation in average production of juvenile fishes (termed recruitment), as well as annual variation in the spatial distribution of recruitment. We fir...
Spectrophotometric study of the reaction of 3-(2-pyridyl)-5,6-bis(4-phenylsulfonic acid)-1,2,4-triazine with iron and copper☆

Abstract A modified procedure is presented for the sequential determination of copper and iron in a single aqueous aliquot. Copper is measured specifically as the bathocuproine sulfonate complex, then the iron color is formed in the same solution as the 3-(2-pyridyl)-5,6-bis(4-phenylsulfonic acid)-1,2,4-triazine complex. This simple procedure for the determination of two biologically related trace metals can be applied for serum analysis.
Glutathione-Dependent Defense in Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) and Brown Bullhead (Ameriurus nebulosus)

Glutathione-dependent defense against xenobiotic toxicity is a multifaceted phenomenon that has been well characterized in mammals. This study undertakes a comparison of two benthic fish species, the channel catfish and brown bullhead, in terms of characteristics of the glutathione system. The channel catfish, a species that has seldom been observed to express pollutant-mediated neoplasia in field studies, was observed to have significantly higher constitutive levels of hepatic total glutathione and reduced glutatione (GSH). Brown bullhead, a species that is often observed to express neoplasia in contaminated systems, had significantly higher hepatic levels of glutathione disulfide. Furthermore, catfish expressed higher levels of activity of the enzymes gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCS), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione S-transferase, whereas bullhead expressed higher hepatic glutathione peroxidase (GPOX) activity. Both species responded to treatment with the redox active quinone, menadione, by expressing elevated hepatic content of total glutathione. However, the induction response was more rapid and more extensive in catfish compared to that in bullhead. This is attributable to the observed interspecific difference in GCS activity. Following treatment with the organic peroxide, tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BOOH), bullhead hepatic glutathione was depleted up to 4 hr post-treatment, whereas catfish demonstrated no significant depletion of glutathione in response to t-BOOH. The differing responses to t-BOOH are attributable to interspecific differences in hepatic GPOX and GR activity. Bullhead, therefore, appear to be more susceptible to the effects of GSH arylators and oxidants based upon constitutive levels of glutathione, related enzyme activities, and the response of this system to model xenobiotics.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Ovarian steroid modulation of seizure severity and hippocampal cell death after kainic acid treatment.

To determine whether maintained estrogen or progesterone levels affect kainic acid (KA) seizure patterns or the susceptibility of hippocampal neurons to death from seizures, ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with estrogen pellets, 0.1 or 0.5 mg, that generated serum levels of 42.4 +/- 6.6 (mean +/- SEM) and 242.4 +/- 32.6 pg/ml or one to six capsules of progesterone that generated serum levels of 11.00 +/-.72 to 48.62 +/- 9.4 ng/ml. Seven days later, the rats were administered KA (8.5mg/kg, ip) and scored for seizure activity; 96 h later, the rats were killed and their brains processed for localization of neuron nuclear antigen (NeuN), a general neuronal marker. The hippocampus was scored for spread (the number of separate regions showing cell loss), and the area within the CA fields occupied by NeuN immunoreactivity was measured (indicating surviving neurons). Administration of estrogen or progesterone (independent of dose) significantly reduced mortality from KA seizures. Progesterone reduced seizure severity in animals that received one to four implants; compared with controls, no difference in seizure severity was noted for animals with six progesterone implants. The reduced seizures in progesterone-treated animals were accompanied by a reduction in the spread of hippocampal damage (r(2) = 0.87; P 0.05), but reduced both the spread (P < 0.05) and degree of neuronal loss (P < 0.05). Indeed, in the estrogen-treated rats, neuronal death was significantly lower than that observed in progesterone-treated animals with equally severe seizures (P < 0.05). These data are consistent with the hypothesis that progesterone produces its effects by reducing seizures, whereas estrogen has little beneficial effect on seizure behavior but protects the hippocampus from the damage seizures produce.
MRI features of a primary thoracic epidural melanoma: a case report

We present the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings on a patient with a primary thoracic extradural spinal malignant melanoma. MRI showed a well-defined T1-hyperintense mass that was mostly of low signal on T2-weighted images. Surgery confirmed the presence of a well-encapsulated black-colored lesion which proved to be a melanoma. Extensive searches revealed no other foci of melanoma and no other lesions have appeared during a 6-month follow-up; thus, the diagnosis of primary melanoma was established. Extradural primary melanomas are exceedingly rare. We discuss their differential diagnosis and their probable etiology.
An Improved Procedure for Intramagnal Insemination of the Chicken

Abstract Intramagnal insemination is a useful technique in the analysis of spermatozoal function. Precise deposition of spermatozoa requires the use of laparotomy. However, hen-day egg production can be adversely affected by such a procedure. The present work demonstrates that postoperative hen-day egg production is affected by choice of anesthetic. Hens anesthetized with a mixture of ketamine and xylazine prior to laparotomy laid 14% fewer eggs (P .05). Furthermore, the use of xylazine alone increased the ease of handling sedated hens and decreased recovery time. Therefore, xylazine is recommended for anesthetizing hens prior to laparotomy.
Preliminary Assessment of Friendship, Problem Behavior, and Social Adjustment in Children with Disabilities in an Inclusive Education Setting

Children with mild disabilities may experience complications in friendship development. This study examined variables related to friendship among third- and fifth-grade students with (n = 12) and without (n = 18) disabilities in inclusion classrooms. Thirty students completed sociometric nominations and identified a preferred best friend. Additionally, students with disabilities completed a self-competence questionnaire and teachers rated them on social and behavioral dimensions. Students with disabilities showed adequate self-competence and tended to nominate other peers with disabilities on sociometric assessments, but did not select a peer with a disability as a preferred best friend. Teachers ranked students with disabilities higher on behavior problems and rated them lower on classroom adjustment, social integration, and academic performance when compared to non-disabled peers. Although students with disabilities identified preferred friends, they may be at risk for a number of negative socio-behavioral outcomes, suggesting the need for both social skills and academic-related interventions.
Criteria for revealing family secrets

Because revealing family secrets can have substantial influences on individuals and their interpersonal relationships, the criteria people use when they consider whether to divulge a family secret are quite important. The current study was conducted to explore these criteria and to examine the factors that encourage people to employ some criteria as opposed to others. In the first stage of the investigation, a list of criteria was generated and initial evidence was presented for an association between the criteria individuals reported using and the likelihood they would reveal a family secret. In the second stage, the list of criteria was refined, the link between the criteria and people's tendency to reveal a family secret was confirmed, and factors associated with the use of some criteria over others were examined. The results of the study yielded 10 factors characterizing the criteria people used in deciding whether to divulge secret information about their family. These factors were, in theoretically ...
The design of organic gelators based on a family of bis-ureas

The use of organic molecules as gelators in certain organic solvents has been the target of recent research in materials science. The types of structures formed in the gel matrix have potential applications as porous solids that can be used as absorbents or in catalysis. We will present and discuss the organogelation properties of a family of bis-ureas. Studies presented will include a molecule structure activity relationship, thermodynamic properties, comparison to x-ray crystallographic data and potential functionalization of the gels formed by this class of compounds.
Ovarian follicular response of mares to GnRH agonist (leuprolide acetate) treatment after pituitary suppression

Abstract Follicular growth and ovulation were monitored in 18 horse mares during a control cycle and during a cycle in which the mares received a GnRH agonist, leuprolide acetate (LA; 200 or 400 μg), twice daily until ovulation. Prior to both of these cycles, follicular growth was suppressed using a 10-day estrogen-progesterone treatment regimen, with prostaglandin F-2α (10 mg) administered on Day 10. Four of the mares treated with LA remained anovulatory for at least 3 weeks after the end of treatment and were excluded from statistical analysis. The dosage of LA did not affect response. Treatment with LA significantly (P=0.0375) increased the percentage of large follicles per ovulation (i.e., follicles greater than 30 mm in diameter on the day on which the largest follicle reached 35 mm) and also increased (P=0.0539) the diameter of the second largest follicle. However LA did not significantly alter the number of ovulations. Mean daily concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH) were not significantly different during treatment and control cycles. The LH in blood samples collected repeatedly on Day 19 after the start of estrogen-progesterone treatment did not show a difference in frequency or amplitude of pulses between treatment and control cycles. Mares were artificially inseminated during estrus and the embryos were recovered. Fewer embryos were recovered per ovulation from mares after treatment with LA (26%) than during the control cycle (64%). Results indicate that treatment with LA either suppressed follicular activity or induced multiple follicular growth.
Summary of symposium and recommendations for food industry action

Abstract Diet and nutrition are important factors in the prevention and treatment of the commonest types of cardiovascular disease—coronary heart disease and stroke—both in the primary and secondary prevention. The most important aspect of diet and cardiovascular disease is that one can manipulate the diet with some ease. Many of the principles of nutrition that have preventive values relative to heart disease can actually be built into manufactured foods, and most of our foods today, and more in the future, will be manufactured foods. This, I think, is not only a challenge to the food industry but a responsibility. It is a challenge in which they should be helped by our regulatory agencies rather than hindered. No doubt those in the food industry who continue to make advances in this area will continue to be attacked by far out consumer activists who get such ego satisfaction by creating confusion and distrust in a gullible public that all is not well with the nation's food supply. Here are a few specifics for the food industry: design of foods with fewer calories, generally that means foods with less fat and more water; design of foods with less saturated fat, replacing part of the saturated fat with either mono- or polyunsaturated fat; the production of meat low in saturated fats and meat products (e.g., sausages, hot dogs, and cold cuts) low in saturated fats yet with an acceptable total fat, by the addition of polyunsaturated fats; the development of strains of animals that convert higher proportions of feed to protein rather than fat; a shift to range feeding with earlier slaughter of cattle to yield leaner animals; modernization of laws and regulations relating to the definition of meat products; further development and use of high-quality vegetable protein products; development of an intensive education program concerning the cooking of lean meats to assure their optimal palatability and acceptability without the use of added saturated fats; reduction in saturated fat and cholesterol content of dairy products; reduction of saturated fat, cholesterol, and calorie content of baked goods; reduction of use of egg yolk in foods. Lastly, it should be emphasized that diet is only one of the risk factors in our commonest type of ill health and death—cardiovascular disease—but it is a risk factor readily modified.
Quantitative autoradiography of hemicholinium-3 binding sites in human amygdala

Abstract We report the binding properties and subnuclear localization of [ 3 H]hemicholinium-3 binding sites in human amygdala using quantitative autoradiography. Specific binding was saturable and high affinity (apparent K d 2–11 nM). Binding was highest in the basolateral nucleus which receives dense cholinergic innervation from the basal forebrain. Binding closely approximated acetylcholinesterase reactivity. These data support [ 3 H]hemicholinium-3 as a quantitative marker for cholinergic terminals in human brain.
Instars of the Hessian fly (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae)

Larvae of the Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), are shown to have three instars. The first instar feeds for approximately 6 d, during which much of the larval growth occurs. Considerable anatomical differences exist among instars. These differences are described and illustrated by drawings and SEM photographs.
Rate coefficient for the reaction Si + F2 → products

The reaction of silicon vapor with fluorine has been studied in a fast flow reactor. Using a silicon hollow cathode lamp, the rate of disappearance of silicon as a function of fluorine concentration was monitored. For the reaction Si(v) + F2 → products, the second order rate coefficient has been determined to be (1.2 ± 0.6) × 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s− at 600 K.
Enzyme systems in the micobacteria VII. Purification, properties and mechanism of action of the alanine dehydrogenase

Abstract An alanine dehydrogenase (AID) has been purified from cell-free extracts of the H 37 Ra strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis var. hominis . This enzyme catalyzes the reaction: l -alanine +DPN + ⇌ pyruvate + NH 4 + + PNH . Its sensitivity to certain inhibitors suggests that free sulfhydryl groups are necessary for enzymic activity. In the reductive amination reaction pyruvate and NH 4 + are shown to each affect the K s of the other. A kinetic analysis of the reductive amination reaction shows that the mechanism of action of AID can be described as a modified Theorell-chance mechanism with substrate inhibition. Attempts to show the intermediation of spontaneously-formed imino-propionate were unsuccessful. It is proposed that reductive amination reactions proceed in two steps. The first step is the enzymic formation of enzyme-bound amino acid. This is followed by the enzymic reduction of the imino acid by DPNH to the amino acid.
Chemical Composition of the Leaf Essential Oil of Calyptranthes pittieri from Monteverde, Costa Rica

Abstract The leaf essential oil of Calyptranthes pittieri Standl. (Myrtaceae), from Costa Rica, was isolated by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS. A total of 22 compounds were identified in the leaf oil accounting for 98.1% of the total composition. The most abundant components of the essential oil of C. pittieri were linalool (54.6%), trans-2-hexenal (24.4%), α-terpineol (6.3%), and terpinen-4-ol (4.6%).
Grieving and Mourning: Distinctions in Process:

Psychothanatologists have begun to question the idea that the grieving process has a definitive ending in recovery and renewal, and instead, they are considering growing evidence that suggests that...
Platelet monoamine oxidase activity and schizophrenia.

To the Editor.— Bond, Cundall, and Falloon 1 recently reported that plate-let monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity in 15 newly admitted schizophrenics was not significantly different from that of 15 controls, but that those with auditory hallucinations (N = 4) had less MAO activity than those who did not (N = 11). Mann and Thomas 2 also found no difference in platelet MAO activity between 55 schizophrenics and five controls but found no difference in platelet MAO activity between schizophrenics with definite hallucinations (N = 31) and those without hallucinations (N = 2). We calculated that the incidence of hallucinations in the two populations of schizophrenics was significantly different (X 2 = 16.81, P Schildkraut et al 3 and we 4 reported that schizophrenics who hallucinated had significantly less platelet
Immune surveillance against common cancers: the great escape

Comment on Boles et al, page [779][1] Cancer cells easily triumph over the body's defenses. Gene fusion, gene amplification, and gene silencing promote tumor survival, proliferation, and angiogenesis. Escape from immune surveillance adds another piece to the cancer puzzle. Mother Nature has
Measuring the relative standing of disciplinary journals

Abstract A measure of the relative standing of professional journals in an aggregated journal citation matrix is considered. The measure can be viewed as an iteration of inputoutput methods or as a normalized eigenvector of a transformation matrix. The measure is applied in a network of 22 geographical journals for 1970–1972 and 1980–1982. The relative locations of the journals in the network for each period are discussed as well as the relative and absolute changes between the two periods.