cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Heterospecific transformation of Pneumococcus and Streptococcus. IV. Variations in hybrid DNA produced by recombination.

Transformations of two linked ribosomal loci (str and ery) were carried out between the SIII-1 strain of pneumococcus and the Challis and SBE strains of group H streptococcus. Transfer of markers between the Challis and SBE strains is as efficient as in the corresponding intrastrain transformations. Transfer between either of these strains and the pneumococcus, however, is less efficient than in the corresponding intrastrain transformation, and is referred to as heterospecific transformation. The inefficiency of the heterospecific transformation is due neither to specific lethality nor reduced uptake of heterologous DNA. When DNA was extracted from the hybrid resulting from a heterospecific cross and used to transform the original donor and recipient species, we found: (a) no donor material in the hybrid DNA responsible for the markedly low efficiency of integration into the recipient species; (b) donor material, in addition to the transforming marker itself, detectable by the higher efficiency with which hybrid DNA transforms the original donor species than does DNA from the original recipient species. DNA was extracted from each of 36 independently derived, doubly marked transformants resulting from the cross: Challis str-s ery-sxSIII-1 str-r53 ery-r2 DNA. Variability was observed between the different hybrid DNAs when the integration efficiency of the str marker in each DNA was compared with that of the ery marker. Variability of as great a magnitude was not observed when the same hybrid DNA was tested in repeated experiments, or when different DNA preparations were extracted from the same hybrid strain, or when several DNA preparations were obtained from a number of independent homospecific transformants. It is concluded that different kinds of donor material are present in the various hybrids, and that the nature of this extra-marker material affects the integration of the marker. Linkage of the str and ery markers was reduced in heterospecific transformations. The kind of donor DNA in the hybrid genome did not affect the linkage reduction observed when the str and ery markers were transferred back to the donor species in which they originated. Indeed, this linkage reduction was the same as that observed when the markers were originally transferred from the SIII-1 to the Challis strain. Specific factors reducing linkage in heterologous crosses must, therefore, be distinct from other factors which affect integration efficiency. The former, however, may be primarily responsible for the inefficiency of heterospecific transformation. One of the hybrid DNAs was used to obtain a second generation of hybrids by passing it through each of the original parental strains. Tests of the DNAs extracted from 24 independently produced, second-generation hybrids showed that hybrid DNA is subject to further alteration by a second integration involving some heterologous confrontation. The probability of such alteration appears to be increased if the second integration is accompanied by linkage reduction.
The oft-neglected role of parietal EEG asymmetry and risk for major depressive disorder.

Relatively less right parietal activity may reflect reduced arousal and signify risk for major depressive disorder (MDD). Inconsistent findings with parietal electroencephalographic (EEG) asymmetry, however, suggest issues such as anxiety comorbidity and sex differences have yet to be resolved. Resting parietal EEG asymmetry was assessed in 306 individuals (31% male) with (n 5 143) and without (n 5 163) a DSM-IV diagnosis of lifetime MDD and no comorbid anxiety disorders. Past MDD1 women displayed relatively less right parietal activity than current MDD1 and
Results of seismological monitoring in the Cascade Range 1962-1989: earthquakes, eruptions, avalanches and other curiosities

Modern monitoring of seismic activity at Cascade Range volcanoes began at Longmire on Mount Rainier in 1958. Since then, there has been an expansion of the regional seismic networks in Washington, northern Oregon and northern California. Now, the Cascade Range from Lassen Peak to Mount Shasta in the south and Newberry Volcano to Mount Baker in the north is being monitored for earthquakes as small as magnitude 2.0, and many of the stratovolcanoes are monitored for non-earthquake seismic activity. This monitoring has yielded three major observations. First, tectonic earthquakes are concentrated in two segments of the Cascade Range between Mount Rainier and Mount Hood and between Mount Shasta and Lassen Peak, where as little seismicity occurs between Mount Hood and Mount Shasta. Second, the volcanic activity and associated phenomena at Mount St. Helens have produced intense and widely varied seismicity. And third, at the northern stratovolcanoes, signals generated by surficial events such as debris flows, icequakes, steam emissions, rockfalls and icefalls are seismically recorded. Such records have been used to alert authorities of dangerous events in progress.
The Fires of Aging

The Biology of Human Longevity . Inflammation, Nutrition, and Aging in the Evolution of Life-spans. By Caleb E. Finch . Academic (Elsevier), Amsterdam, 2007. 640 pp. $69.95, £39.99, €58.95. ISBN 9780123736574. Drawing on findings from a wide range of disciplines, the author identifies reduced levels of inflammation as a crucial factor in the recent increase in human life-spans.
The Potential for Hall Effect Breast Imaging

Hall effect imaging is a noninvasive imaging method that combines ultrasound with a strong magnetic field to investigate the electrical properties of tissue. Although technical development is at an early stage, its value for detecting or characterizing pathologies in the breast and other organs is promising. In vitro studies in the past showed that tissue electrical properties are closely related to its physiology and morphology. Hall effect imaging may become a new tool to study these electrical properties in the body and potentially provide unique diagnostic information.
Settling of Loose-Fill Insulations Due to Vibration

Vibration and impact testing of loose-fill cellulosic, fiberglass, and rock wool insulations has been carried out to provide a data base for settled density tests. The ratio of final density to initial density for the three materials has been determined for repeated 19-mm (0.75-in.) drops, repeated 152-mm (6.0-in.) drops, and vibrations at frequencies from 10 to 60 Hz with displacements from 0.1 mm (0.004 in.) to 6.35 mm (0.25 in.). Repeated 19-mm or 152-mm drops increased the density ratio for rock wool insulation specimens the most, while the cellulosic insulation specimens were affected the least. Density ratios after 200 19-mm drops averaged 1.75 for loose-fill rock wool, 1.45 for loose-fill fiberglass, and 1.27 for loose-fill cellulosic insulations. Vibration tests for 7200 s at 0.1-mm displacement and 15 Hertz produced negligible changes in the densities of all three loose-fill insulations. An 1800-s vibration test at 2.5 mm (0.1 in.) and 10 Hz resulted in average density ratios of 1.05, 1.11, and 1.18 for specimens of loose-fill cellulosic, rock wool, and fiberglass insulations, respectively. Changes in either frequency of vibration, displacement, or test duration can be used to achieve a wide range of laboratory results. Efforts to correlate laboratory results with inmore » situ density measurements are presented.« less
Fuzzy logic as a basis for specifying imprecise requirements

A major challenge with requirements engineering is that the requirements to be captured usually are described in qualitative terms which are imprecise in nature. The authors propose to use soft functional requirements in a task-based specification methodology to capture the imprecise requirements, and to formulate soft functional requirements using fuzzy logic. More specifically, the soft conditions are represented using the canonical form in test-score semantics. The proposed approach not only can facilitate the exploration of various tradeoffs during the design phase, but also can enable a more realistic validation of the user's imprecise requirements. >
A community systems approach to substance abuse prevention in a rural setting

The Community Health Demonstration Project developed a community systems model of program development and interventions which provides consistent, ongoing prevention messages and services across multiple delivery systems and service providers. This model has brought together various sectors of a rural disadvantaged Appalachian community in Pennsylvania to plan, implement, and evaluate a community-wide campaign addressing the prevention of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) problems. The model for this community prevention effort focused primarily on the development of community awareness, resources, and programming—capacity building—all of which provides a foundation for continuing attitude and behavior change. Preliminary evaluative data indicate that awareness of local ATOD problems has increased. Moreover, new programming has been implemented and interaction and cooperation among services providers have improved dramatically during the course of the project.
Conversion Between Doubly and Triply Carboxylate-Bridged Di(ethylzinc) Complexes and Formation of the (μ-Oxo)tetrazinc Carboxylate [Zn4O(Ar(Tol)CO2)6].

Ethylzinc 2,6-bis(p-tolyl)benzoate converts between two forms in solution. Through NMR spectroscopic techniques and X-ray crystallography, the species in equilibrium were identified as [Zn2(ArTolCO2)2(Et)2(THF)2] (1), [Zn2(ArTolCO2)3(Et)(THF)] (2), and diethylzinc (ArTol = 2,6-bis(p-tolyl)phenyl). The equilibrium provides a model for understanding the speciation between doubly and triply m-terphenylcarboxylate bridged diiron(II) and mononuclear iron(II) complexes. Evidence is presented for the occurrence of coordinatively unsaturated trigonal zinc species in solution. Both 1 and 2 decompose in air to form the T-symmetric oxozinc carboxylate [Zn4O(ArTolCO2)6] (3).
Purification of ACV synthetase fromStreptomyces clavuligerus

By a combination of protamine sulfate treatment, ammonium sulfate fractionation, gel filtration and hydrophobic interaction chromatography, an active δ-(L-α-aminoadipyl)-L-cysteinyl-D-valine (ACV) synthetase from the prokaryoteStreptomyces clavuligerus was purified 135-fold to give a single major protein band on SDS-PAGE. Its size appears to be approximately 360 kDa which is very similar to that of the enzyme from the eukaryote,Cephalosporium acremonium.
Coordinating the events of the meiotic prophase

Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division leading to the production of gametes. During meiotic prophase I, homologous chromosomes interact with each other and form bivalents (pairs of homologous chromosomes). Three major meiotic processes – chromosome pairing, synapsis and recombination – are involved in the formation of bivalents. Many recent reports have uncovered complex networks of interactions between these processes. Chromosome pairing is largely dependent on the initiation and progression of recombination in fungi, mammals and plants, but not in Caenorhabditis elegans or Drosophila . Synapsis and recombination are also tightly linked. Understanding the coordination between chromosome pairing, synapsis and recombination lends insight into many poorly explained aspects of meiosis, such as the nature of chromosome homology recognition.
Nonorganic visual loss: what's in a name?

A COLLEAGUE ONCE MADE THE WITTY OBSERVATION that he has never met a referring doctor he didn’t like. We can readily endorse this sentiment since for many of us referrals are our life blood. But among the referred patients is a group who present special difficulties. These are the patients whose visual symptoms the referring ophthalmologist suspects (or even knows) are on a psychological or sociopathic basis. Many clinicians are frustrated by, and even feel hostile to, these patients because they do not appear to share with the physician the goal of eliminating the symptoms. Their evaluation and management is difficult enough, but there is also the additional problem of selecting the best diagnostic term in each case. Many designations have been used and many clinicians consider them to be generic terms, unaware that they may have specific implications in law and psychiatry. Their casual use can have unintended consequences. For example, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts “malingerers” would be denied workers’ compensation and would not be accepted on the rolls of the Commission for the Blind. “Hysterics,” however, may receive compensation for their illness and would be eligible to be registered with the Commission for the Blind. The requirement that we select billing codes listed in standard diagnostic manuals has brought the issue of nomenclaure into sharp focus. I hope to convince readers to arefully consider the terms that they use and to show that phthalmologists and neuro-ophthalmologists lack the raining necessary to employ the specific diagnoses curently available in the diagnostic manuals. “Organic” is a term used in psychology to designate a isorder “caused by neurochemical, neuroendocrinologic, tructural, or other impairment or change.” It would be fair to say that this is the definition that is generally used by clinicians to classify patients as having an organic or a nonorganic disorder. The existence of competing schools of dynamic psychiatry and biological psychiatry reflected this duality. For many years the former was in ascendancy, but the situation has changed. Advances in the neural
Multi-scalar foraging decisions in the Santa Barbara Channel, southern California

Abstracts Hunter-gatherer decisions about where to live were influenced by many behaviors, some easier to see in the archaeological record (i.e. hunting or trapping vertebrates, gathering shellfish, quarrying and flint knapping) and some more difficult (i.e. gathering and processing plants, environmental variability, spiritual meaning, social relationships). Spatial modeling provides a tool to examine some of those decisions based on how they influenced the location of sites. This study uses the tenets of central place foraging theory to build a multi-scalar settlement model for the Santa Barbara Channel of southern California, where rising sea levels during the Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene erased a large portion of the existing archaeological record and studies of macrobotanical remains are limited. The model is evaluated through comparison with the archaeological record, and reveals a complex set of priorities in decisions about landscape use. People appear to have evaluated different resource categories—freshwater, protein, carbohydrates, and lithic raw materials—at different spatial scales depending in part on their importance to subsistence but also on the variable productivity and distribution of the resources themselves. Spatial modeling has considerable potential for both analyzing the existing record and generating hypotheses for future research.
The crystal structure of dicarbonyldicyclopentadienyltitanium(II), (η5-C5H5)2Ti(CO)2

Abstract The crystal structure of (η5-C5H5)2Ti(CO)2 has been determined from singlecrystal X-ray diffraction data collected by counter methods. Dicarbonyldicyclopentadienyltitanium(II) crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pnma with lattice constants a = 7.837(9), b = 11.475(8), c = 12.232(8) A, and ϱc = 1.41 g cm−3 for Z = 4. Least-squares refinement gave a final conventional R value of 0.086 for 648 independent observed reflections. The molecule, which resides on a crystallographic mirror plane that passes through the cyclopentadienyl groups, possesses almost exact C2ν point symmetry. The TiC(carbonyl) bond length is 2.030(11) A, while the average TiC(η5) distance is 2.347(13) A. The CTiC bond angle is 87.6(6)°, and the ring centerTiring center angle is 138.6°.
Simplest representation yet for gait recognition: averaged silhouette

We present a robust representation for gait recognition that is compact, easy to construct, and affords efficient matching. Instead of a time series based representation comprising of a sequence of raw silhouette frames or of features extracted therein, as has been the practice, we simply align and average the silhouettes over one gait cycle. We then base recognition on the Euclidean distance between these averaged silhouette representations. We show, using the recently formulated gait challenge problem (www.gaitchallenge.org), that the improvement in execution time is 30 times while possessing recognition power that is comparable to the gait baseline algorithm, which is becoming the comparison standard in gait recognition. Experiments with portions of the average silhouette representation show that recognition power is not entirely derived from upper body shape, rather the dynamics of the legs also contribute equally to recognition. However, this study does raise intriguing doubts about the need for accurate shape and dynamics representations for gait recognition.
Future and present technologies of solid state lighting (Presentation Video)

Blue nitride-based LEDs have been grown hetero-epitaxially on sapphire, SiC and Si substrates. Homo-epitaxial growth of LEDs grown on GaN substrate is getting popular to improve the reliability and to increase the power density per chip. Laser lighting also would be a promising lighting technology to improve the power density per chip in the future.
Spectrophotometric analysis of molecular transport in gels

An automated spectrophotometric method has been developed for analyzing molecular transport out from and into gels. A Beckman DU7500 diode-array UV-visible spectrophotometer with gel scanner was modified to accept and longitudinally scan a quartz diffusion cell, 0.3×10×40 mm. Molecules of interest are identified and concentrations quantitated via analysis of spectrophotometric absorbance peaks relative to background absorbance of the gel. Thus, concentration profiles are obtained as functions of both position and time. Test data are fitted to a diffusion model via nonlinear least-squares regression. Precision and accuracy of the method were assessed via analysis of several test molecules and gels: (1) 30 mg/ml nonoxynol-9 (N9), contained in 1% sodium alginate gel cross-linked with 2.5 mM calcium chloride, permeating standardized, reconstituted bovine cervical mucus (BCM); (2) 2.5 mg/ml sodium fluorescein, contained in and permeating 10 mg/ml and 100 mg/ml gelatin gels; and (3) 1.0 mg/ml sodium ganciclovir, contained in and permeating 10 mg/ml sodium hyaluronate gel. Diffusion coefficients for (1) and (3) were 3.8×10−7 and 54.1×10−7 cm2/s, respectively. All measurements of diffusion coefficients, partition coefficients, and solute loads obtained in this study were highly repeatable (most C.V.'s<8%). The mean diffusion coefficient for (2) was within 3% of values predicted from theory for the 100 mg/ml gel; the mean partition coefficient for (3) was within 2% of the expected value. This new technique is simpler than many traditional ones in that it does not require labeling of test molecules nor changes in refractive index of target materials. It is particularly well-suited to situations in which the target material is a gel, because no stirring of the target is necessary.
STRUCTURE OF ISOLATED PLANT GOLGI APPARATUS REVEALED BY NEGATIVE STAINING

Sucrose-gradient-purified dictyosomes of plant Golgi apparatus appear, after glutaraldehyde stabilization, as stacks of highly fenestrate and tubate cisternae when negatively stained with phosphotungstic acid, shadowed with heavy metal, or OsO4-stained in thin section. The tubular proliferations (diameter 200 to 400 A) extend for several microns from the central region and are united at intervals into an anastomosing network. Associated with the tubules are two kinds of vesicles which are distinguishable on the basis of texture, size, shape, and staining characteristics. One vesicle type is rough-surfaced, nearly spherical, and of uniform dimensions (diameter approximately 600 A). Metal shadowing shows that these vesicles remain spherical after drying. The other vesicle type is smooth-surfaced and varies in both size and shape. Intercisternal elements are revealed, by negative staining, on the surface of internal cisternae after fragmentation of the dictyosome. The progressive differentiation of cisternae from the forming face to the maturing face is observed in thin sections of these isolated preparations. The morphological characteristics observed in negatively stained dictyosomes indicate regions of functional specialization within the dictyosome cisternae and reveal a dictyosome structure more extensive than that envisioned from sections.
On the roles of Ca2+ diffusion, Ca2+ buffers, and the endoplasmic reticulum in IP3-induced Ca2+ waves

We have investigated the effects of Ca2+ diffusion, mobile and stationary Ca2+ buffers in the cytosol, and Ca2+ handling by the endoplasmic reticulum on inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ wave propagation. Rapid equilibration of free and bound Ca2+ is used to describe Ca2+ sequestration by buffers in both the cytosol and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen. Cytosolic Ca2+ regulation is based on a kinetic model of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor of De Young and Keizer that includes activation and inhibition of the IP3 receptor Ca2+ channel in the ER membrane and SERCA Ca2+ pumps in the ER. Diffusion of Ca2+ in the cytosol and the ER and the breakdown and diffusion of IP3 are also included in our calculations. Although Ca2+ diffusion is severely limited because of buffering, when conditions are chosen just below the threshold for Ca2+ oscillations, a pulse of IP3 or Ca2+ results in a solitary trigger wave that requires diffusion of Ca2+ for its propagation. In the oscillatory regime repetitive wave trains are observed, but for this type of wave neither the wave shape nor the speed is strongly dependent on the diffusion of Ca2+. Local phase differences lead to waves that are predominately kinematic in nature, so that the wave speed (c) is related to the wavelength (lambda) and the period of the oscillations (tau) approximately by the formula c = lambda/tau. The period is determined by features that control the oscillations, including [IP3] and pump activity, which are related to recent experiments. Both solitary waves and wave trains are accompanied by a Ca2+ depletion wave in the ER lumen, similar to that observed in cortical preparations from sea urchin eggs. We explore the effect of endogenous and exogenous Ca2+ buffers on wave speed and wave shape, which can be explained in terms of three distinct effects of buffering, and show that exogenous buffers or Ca2+ dyes can have considerable influence on the amplitude and width of the waves.
The reactions between aminoguanidine and phenylglyoxal

A guanylhydrazone of phenylglyoxal has been prepared. Two isomeric phenyl aminotriazines, their hydrochlorides and acetyl derivatives have been prepared and their structures determined. The imino tautomer of one of the triazines has been prepared. Absorption spectra curves for the four compounds from aminoguanidine and phenylglyoxal have been reported.
Relaxation in a low-permeability porous material

Relaxation in low-permeability porous materials has been examined for nonstationary infiltration.
Science on Television: Storytelling, Learning and Citizenship

(2006). Science on Television: Storytelling, Learning and Citizenship. Studies in Science Education: Vol. 42, No. 1, pp. 89-123.
Identification of one of the apurinic/apyrimidinic lyase active sites of topoisomerase V by structural and functional studies

Topoisomerase V (Topo-V) is the only member of a novel topoisomerase subtype. Topo-V is unique because it is a bifunctional enzyme carrying both topoisomerase and DNA repair lyase activities within the same protein. Previous studies had shown that the topoisomerase domain spans the N-terminus of the protein and is followed by 12 tandem helix–hairpin–helix [(HhH)2] domains. There are at least two DNA repair lyase active sites for apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) site processing, one within the N-terminal region and the second within the C-terminal domain of Topo-V, but their exact locations and characteristics are unknown. In the present study, the N-terminal 78-kDa fragment of Topo-V (Topo-78), containing the topoisomerase domain and one of the lyase DNA repair domains, was characterized by structural and biochemical studies. The results show that an N-terminal 69-kDa fragment is the minimal fragment with both topoisomerase and AP lyase activities. The lyase active site of Topo-78 is at the junction of the fifth and sixth (HhH)2 domains. From the biochemical and structural data, it appears that Lys571 is the most probable nucleophile responsible for the lyase activity. Our experiments also suggest that Topo-V most likely acts as a Class I AP endonuclease in vivo.
Electron transfer between metal complexes bound to DNA: variations in sequence, donor, and metal binding mode

Using luminescence spectroscopy and single photon counting, photoinduced electron transfer (ET) reactions between photoexcited [M(phen)_2dppz ^(2+) (phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, dppz=dipyridophenazine, M=Ru or Os) and the electron acceptors Rh(phi)_2bpy^(3+) (phi=9,10-phenanthrenequinone diimine, bpy=2,2′-bipyridine) and Ru(NH_3)_6^(3+) were studied as a function of DNA sequence in long DNA polymers. In addition, the thermal back reactions between M(III) and reduced acceptor were also followed by transient absorption spectroscopy. The comparison of ET reactions of the isostructural donors Os and Ru with an intercalated acceptor, Rh(phi)_2bpy^(3+), and an externally bound acceptor, Ru(NH_3)_6^(3+), helps to elucidate which factors are important for electron transfer between DNA-bound intercalators. Ru(phen)_2dppz^(2+) and Os(phen)_2dppz^(2+) show nearly identical quenching by Rh(phi)_2bpy^(3+) for a given DNA polymer, with an efficient quenching process that occurs on a time scale much faster than the excited state lifetime. We find that Rh(phi)_2bpy^(3+) and Ru(NH_3)_6^(3+) show opposite trends for quenching of DNA-bound M(phen)_2dppz^(2+). Quenching by intercalated Rh(phi)_2bpy^(3+) is most efficient in AT-only DNA polymers and less efficient in GC-only polymers, whereas for groove-bound Ru(NH_3)_6^(3+), the reverse is observed. The intrinsic excited state lifetime of Ru(phen)_2dppz^(2+) bound to DNA and the luminescence quenching efficiency by Ru(NH_3)_6^(3+) provide indicators of the solvent accessibility of the DNA-bound dppz donor. On this basis, we attribute the difference in ET reactivity among the various DNA polymers to differences in how well M(phen)_2dppz^(2+) stacks in DNA.
Relations Between Permeability and Electrical Resistivity in Granular Aquifers

Increased demand for quantitative answers to ground-water problems, particularly associated with the use of numerical models, has increased the need to accurately determine the distribution of hydraulic parameters. Researchers have attempted to find correlations between electrical resistivity and the permeability of fresh-water aquifers since 1951. Several recent studies report either direct or inverse relations between apparent formation factor and aquifer permeability. The basis for these relations is a direct or inverse relation between porosity and permeability and, as matrix conduction effects are not taken into account, constant fluid conductivity is either implicitly or explicitly assumed. Laboratory experiments conducted on granular materials suggest that matrix conduction (surface conduction) effects are either as important as, or dominant over, porosity-permeability relations. Our experiments on granular materials show only weak relations between true formation factor and permeability. Relations between apparent formation factor and permeability are good only for constant fluid conductivity. Most importantly, the strongest relationship found was that between permeability and matrix conductivity. These data suggest either that (1) relations between permeability and apparent formation factor must be applied in very restricted geologic environments and only where fluid conductivity remains relatively constant, or (2) more fundamental relations between matrix conductivity and aquifer permeability should be applied.
An experimental investigation of reputation effects of disclosure in an investment/trust game

Abstract This paper examines experimentally the reputation building role of disclosure in an investment/trust game. It provides experimental evidence in support of sequential equilibrium behavior in a finitely repeated investment/trust game where information asymmetry raises the possibility of voluntary disclosure. I define two regimes, namely disclosure regime and no-disclosure regime and it is only in the disclosure regime that such disclosure of private information is a possibility. I compare investment levels across two regimes and find the startling result that investment is lower in disclosure regime. I find that this lower investment is attributable to the fact that the prior probability with which an investor in the disclosure regime believes that a manager is trustworthy is significantly lower than the prior probability with which an investor in the no-disclosure regime believes that a manager is trustworthy. I introduce a two-stage experimental design to homogenize prior beliefs about managers’ trustworthiness and find that after such homogenization, investment is higher in disclosure.
Tungsten Oxo Alkylidene Complexes as Initiators for the Stereoregular Polymerization of 2,3-Dicarbomethoxynorbornadiene

We have employed 2,3-dicarbomethoxynorbornadiene (DCMNBD) as a monomer to explore new tungsten oxo alkylidene complexes as initiators for stereoregular ROMP (ring-opening metathesis polymerization). The initiators include MAP (monoaryloxide pyrrolide) oxo alkylidene complexes with the general formula W(O)(CHCMe2Ph)(Me2Pyr)(OAr) (Me2Pyr = 2,5-dimethylpyrrolide, OAr = an aryloxide) and W(O)(CHCMe2Ph)(OR)2 (OR = an aryloxide or OC(CF3)3), or PPh2Me or CH3CN adducts thereof. We have found that MAP initiators yield cis,syndiotactic-poly(DCMNBD) as a consequence of stereogenic metal control. In contrast, W(O)(CHCMe2Ph)(OR)2(L) initiators (where L = PPh2Me or acetonitrile) are strongly biased toward formation of cis,isotactic structures, while W(O)(CHCMe2Ph)(OR)2 initiators are strongly biased toward formation of cis,syndiotactic structures. Addition of B(C6F5)3 to W(O)(CHCMe2Ph)(Me2Pyr)(OR) species leads to a dramatic increase in the rate of polymerization and to an increase in the cis,syndiotacticity of the po...
Reversal of ongoing thermal hyperalgesia in mice by a recombinant herpesvirus that encodes human preproenkephalin

Herpesvirus-mediated transfer of the human preproenkephalin gene to primary afferent nociceptors prevents phasic thermal allodynia/hyperalgesia in mice. It is not known, however, whether similar viral treatments would reverse ongoing or chronic pain and allodynia/hyperalgesia. To this end, mice were given intrathecal injections of pertussis toxin (PTX), which produces a weeks-long thermal hyperalgesia apparently by uncoupling certain G proteins from inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors. This treatment produced profound thermal hyperalgesia in both Aδ and C-fiber thermonociceptive tests lasting at least 6 weeks. However, treatment of skin surfaces with an enkephalin-encoding herpesvirus, but not control virus or vehicle, completely reversed this hyperalgesia. This profound antihyperalgesia was observed for both Aδ- and C-fiber-mediated responses. Interestingly, however, while the antihyperalgesic effect of the enkephalin-encoding virus on C-fiber-mediated responses was reversed by intrathecal application of μ or δ opioid antagonists, only δ antagonists reversed the effect of this virus on Aδ hyperalgesia. Thus, virus-mediated delivery of the proenkephalin cDNA reverses thermal hyperalgesia produced by PTX-induced ribosylation of inhibitory G proteins by an opioid-mediated mechanism. These results suggest that herpesvirus vectors encoding analgesic peptides may be useful in attenuating centrally mediated, ongoing neuropathic pain and/or hyperalgesia.
Unwelcome in Women’s Studies

For over a decade, as part of a systematic critique of Marxist theory, I have developed a research interest in the implications of differing human capacities, propensities, and motivations, on the rethinking of traditional approaches to American social policy. The first major focus of my research endeavor was to explore individual-level human variation, focusing specifically on human mental ability and its relation to social-class mobility and American social policy. This research culminated in a recently published book, The Just Meritocracy, and provided a platform for the second leg of my present research journey: human sex differences. Owing to the enormous breadth, depth, and policy implications of human sex differences, it was obvious that to read, analyze, and arrive satisfactorily at reasonable conclusions based on scientific evidence, a sustained academic focus would be required. As is common practice among faculty, new areas of research endeavor often warrant offering a “special topics” course in which to examine the material systematically. This is especially the case since my department is rather modest in size, does not have a doctoral program, and the types of courses we generally teach service the majors and minors in our program. Special-topics courses require motivation, competency, preparation, and clearance from the department chair. They also require Acad. Quest. (2007) 20:122–134 DOI 10.1007/s12129-007-9004-z
Expanding the analysis of social orientations by reference to the sequential-temporal structure of situations

The purpose of this paper is to identify logically the types of choice points that people encounter in their interpersonal relationships. It is assumed that associated with each type of choice point is a special class of choice criterion or decision rule. Therefore, identifying the types of choice points provides a basis for distinguishing the various decision criteria that are required by interdependent life and that should be assessed in order to predict patterns of interpersonal interaction. This paper explains how these distinctions will serve to expand our thinking about social orientations.
Effect of internal distributors in a packed column on the steam stripping of hexane from soybean oil

Internal distributors were designed and installed in a 6-in. diameter column with an 8-ft bed of 1/2-in. berl saddles. The distribution pattern of a liquid (water) flowing down the column was first determined. The distributors picked up the water from the wall of the column and redistributed it towards the center producing definitely better distribution across the column than obtained without them. Steam stripping of hexane from soybean oil was next carried out in the column both with and without the distributors. The residual hexane in the oil varied exponentially with the steam-oil ratio. Under the experimental conditions 18% less steam was required for comparable stripping with the distributors in the column than without them.
Effect of angular inertia of lubricant in MHD hydrostatic thrust bearings

Circumferential motion of a conducting lubricant in a hydrostatic thrust bearing is caused either by the angular motion of a rotating disk or by the interaction of a radial electric field and an axial magnetic field. Under the assumption that the fluid inertia due to radial motion is negligibly small in comparison with that due to angular motion, it is found analytically that the rotor causes an increase in flow rate and a decrease in load capacity, while both are increased by the application of an electric field in the presence of an axial magnetic field. The critical angular speed of the rotor at which the bearing can no longer support any load is obtained, and the possibility of flow separation in the lubricant is discussed.
Synapse-Glia Interactions at the Vertebrate Neuromuscular Junction:

Glial cells are widely distributed throughout the nervous system, including at the chemical synapse. However, our knowledge of the role of glial cells at the synapse is rudimentary. Recent studies using a model synapse, the vertebrate neuromuscular junction (NMJ), have demonstrated that perisynaptic Schwann cells (PSCs), which are the glia juxtaposed to the nerve terminal at the NMJ, play active and essential roles in synaptic function, maintenance, and development. PSCs can respond to nerve activity by increasing intracellular calcium and are capable of modulating synaptic function in response to pharmacological manipulations. Studies using PSC ablation in vivo have shown that PSCs are essential for the long-term maintenance of synaptic structure and function at the adult NMJ. In vivo observations have also shown that PSCs guide presynaptic nerve terminal extension and dictate the pattern of innervation during synaptic regeneration and remodeling at adult NMJs. PSCs may also induce postsynaptic acetylcholine receptor aggregation. Furthermore, PSCs play an essential role in synaptic growth and maintenance during development of NMJs in vivo, and Schwann cell-derived factors can promote synaptogenesis and enhance synaptic transmission in tissue culture. These recent findings advance the emerging concept that glial cells help make bigger, stronger, and more stable synapses.
Ferroelectric field effect studies at low temperatures

The ferroelectric field effect has been studied experimentally at low temperatures (300°K > T > 78°K) using n type tin oxide films deposited on polished ferroelectric ceramic (PZT) substrates. It is shown that the film, in its enhanced state, possesses the characteristics of a degenerate semiconductor with the Fermi level 0.60 eV above the conduction band edge. In the depleted state (high resistance) the Fermi level can be as much as 0.28 eV below the conduction band edge. There is evidence of a trapping state that degrades the field effect transition at temperatures below ∼183°K and at 78°K there is only a very small field effect transition even though the substrate switches more polarization charge than at room temperature. The depleted state instability is shown to be due to a thermally activated process with the high resistance being relatively stable with time for temperatures below 253°K.
Cytologic diagnosis and differential diagnosis of lung carcinoid tumors a retrospective study of 63 cases with histologic correlation

BACKGROUND:: Neuroendocrine (NE) neoplasms of the lung are a spectrum of tumors including typical carcinoid (TC), atypical carcinoid tumor (ACT), small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC), and large cell NE carcinoma (LCNEC). Given the overlapping features within these tumors, misclassification is a known risk, with significant treatment consequences. METHODS:: A search of the pathology archives from The Johns Hopkins Hospital yielded 390 cases of TC diagnosed over 20 years. Sixty-three cytology cases with corresponding surgical material were identified. The cytology specimens were comprised of 49 cases of lung fine-needle aspiriation specimens and 14 cases of lung brushings/washings. RESULTS:: Among 63 paired cases, 32 cases (51%) demonstrated concordant and 31 cases (49%) demonstrated discordant diagnoses. Among discordant cases, the most notable findings included overdiagnosis of TC as SCLC (4 cases; 6%), ACT (4 cases; 6%), and poorly differentiated carcinoma with NE features (5 cases; 8%) as well as misdiagnosis of other lesions as TC (4 cases; 6%) on cytology. CONCLUSIONS:: The significant morphologic factors for distinguishing low-grade TC from ACT, SCLC, or carcinoma remain the critical evaluation of nuclear features, chromatin patterns, and assessment of nucleoli. Nuclear molding and crowding are not discernible features because they may be found on smears with increased cellularity. Crush artifact can occur in both low-grade and high-grade NE neoplasms and may cause a misinterpretation of SCLC. Other artifacts resulting from delayed fixation or poor processing and sampling error are potential causes of incorrect interpretations. Ki-67 staining may be useful in difficult cases. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
A complete set of f-electron scalar operators

A complete set of scalar effective operators acting within the configurations fN has been found. Through the use of Lie groups this set is resolved into orthogonal operators which act on N electrons simultaneously. A direct group theoretic correspondence is established between N-body electron operators and N-body nuclear states. This connection is utilised to expedite the electron classification scheme. Unlike the case of the d shell, little simplification occurs as N increases. In addition to the 21 previously established operators with N<or=3, one has 65 four-body, 107 five-body, 182 six-body and 50 seven-body operators. Also, it is shown how the Hermiticity of each operator can be established by examining its transformation properties under the Lie group Sp(14).
Hyaluronidase in the fertilization of mammalian ova.

SummaryCrude or highly purified preparations known to be very rich in hyaluronidase, such as extracts from rattlesnake venom, leech tissues, and testicle, have a very pronounced effect in dispersing the follicular cells surrounding the ova of mice. It appears very probable that hyaluronidase itself, which plays such an important part in infection, is also responsible for this effect, an indispensable step in fertilization. Final conclusions cannot be reached until the enzyme is obtained in pure state.P.S. When the manuscript of this paper was ready for publication McClean and Rowlands4 reported the results of experiments similar to ours but carried out on rat ova and reached the same conclusions as we have.
An observation of cooling tower plume effects on total solar radiation

Abstract Measurements of total solar radiation were made on 7 March 1977. The sky was cloudless but a cooling tower plume occasionally came between the sun and the pyranometer that was used. These measurements resulted in values that were greater than those expected with a cloudless sky. It is likely that reflections from the plume, whose average position was slightly north of an imaginary sun-pyranometer line, were responsible.
Supplementation by vitamin D compounds does not affect colonic tumor development in vitamin D sufficient murine models.

Epidemiological studies indicate that sunlight exposure and vitamin D are each associated with a lower risk of colon cancer. The few controlled supplementation trials testing vitamin D in humans reported to date show conflicting results. We have used two genetic models of familial colon cancer, the ApcPirc/+ (Pirc) rat and the ApcMin/+ (Min) mouse, to investigate the effect of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] and two analogs of vitamin D hormone on colonic tumors. Longitudinal endoscopic monitoring allowed us to test the efficacy of these compounds in preventing newly arising colonic tumors and in affecting established colonic tumors. 25(OH)D3 and two analogs of vitamin D hormone each failed to reduce tumor multiplicities or alter the growth patterns of colonic tumors in the Pirc rat or the Min mouse.
Vector Boson Elastic Scattering and Compton Scattering

The most general Lorentz covariant scattering amplitude is constructed for the elastic scattering of neutral vector bosons and pions, using a symmetric spinor description for the vector particles. In the limit of zero mass for the vector boson, the known results for Compton scattering are reproduced in a simplified way that avoids discussion of gauge invariance. In this limit the scattering is generalized from photons to any massless particle. Finally, a brief discussion is given of the single-particle pole terms in Compton scattering.
Differential regulation of AP-1 DNA binding activity in rat hypothalamus and pituitary by estrogen.

Abstract AP-1 proteins such as Fos and Jun are nuclear transcription factors that have been postulated to function as third messengers in signal transduction pathways to regulate target gene expression. Using electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA), we have studied estrogen (E) effects on regulation of AP-1 DNA binding activity in the rat hypothalamus and pituitary. AP-1 binding is defined herein as the specific association with a consensus AP-1 site during EMSA. Specific AP-1 binding activity was observed in nuclear extracts from the hypothalamus and pituitary of ovariectomized (OVX) female and castrated (CAS) male rats. Treatment with E increased the levels of AP-1 binding activity in the pituitary and uterus, whereas E decreased the levels of AP-1 binding in the hypothalamus, of OVX females. These effects were observed within 60 min and maintained for at least 72 h after a single dose of estrogen. Estrogen-induced changes in AP-1 binding were much more prominent in OVX females than in CAS males. Treatment with progesterone in OVX females had no significant effects on AP-1 binding activity in either pituitary or hypothalamus. Analysis of AP-1 binding activity in both hypothalamus and pituitary by supershift, immunodepletion and shift-Western blot indicated that part of the AP-1 binding was due to the presence of Fos and Jun proteins. However, Western blot analysis shows that the levels of Fos and Jun proteins in the hypothalamic nuclear extracts were not altered by E treatment. We conclude that E produced tissue and sex-differentiated alterations in AP-1 DNA binding activity in the hypothalamus and pituitary of female rats, which may be related to differential estrogenic actions on gene regulation.
Diabetes revealed: multisystem danger.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to review the role of diagnostic imaging in the evaluation of women with diabetes.CONCLUSION. Diabetic patients present a challenging population for the performance of various imaging studies and special considerations need to be made to obtain adequate studies. Imaging plays a significant role in assessing the multisystem morbidity of diabetes. Furthermore, diabetes in women may have some unique features and consequences and imaging studies can aid in the correct management of these patients.
Conceptual issues in trichotillomania, a prototypical impulse control disorder.

Impulse control disorders (ICDs) are characterized by irresistible urges to perform acts that result in a reduction of tension and possibly gratification, but also have negative consequences. Trichotillomania, an ICD, is characterized by a recurrent failure to resist impulses to pull out one’s hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss. Limited information is available about structural and neurochemical differences in individuals with trichotillomania. Cognitive behavioral techniques are promising treatments for trichotillomania. Pharmacologic treatments have focussed on clomipramine and venlafaxine as potentially effective for the short term control of symptoms in trichotillomania. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, though promising in open trials, seem to be largely ineffective in reducing hair pulling in controlled studies. Durability of pharmacologic benefit for the symptoms of trichotillomania, both in a small trial and in clinical experience, appears to be poor.
A RECONSIDERATION OF ENCYCLIA (ORCHIDACEAE)

The status of the genusEncyclia is reviewed, and this genus is compared withEpidendrum. As currently used,Epidendrum is a very heterogeneous assortment of species, resulting largely from the over-emphasis on certain “key characters.” If a greater emphasis is given to the internal coherence of the species groups within theEpidendrum alliance, about thirty genera can be recognized, with Envyclia and Epide~drum in different sectors of the alliance. The limited data on inter-speelfic crossability suggests that the entire alliance is a comparinm in genecologica] terms. The only alternative to the recognition ofEpidendrum andEncyclia as distinct genera is the union of all thirty genera into one, which is considered to be impractical.