cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effective Water Use Required for Improving Crop Growth Rather Than Transpiration Efficiency

The phenomenological expression showing crop yield to be directly dependent on crop transpiration use efficiency (TE) has encourage continued focus on TE as a viable approach to increasing crop yields. The difficulty in the phenomenological perspective is that research tends not to match with the underlying mechanistic variables defining TE. Experimental evidence and the mechanistic derivation of TE by Tanner and Sinclair show that the common focus on increasing the intrinsic ratio of leaf CO2 / H2O exchange has limited opportunities for improvement. On the other hand, the derivation showed that daily vapor pressure deficit (VPD) weighted for the daily cycle of transpiration rate has a large, direct impact on TE. However, VPD is often viewed as an environmental variable although daily weighted VPD can be under plant control as a result of partial stomatal closure during the midday. Such partial stomatal closure results in decreased weighted VPD and transpiration rate, there can be substantial conservation of soil water. The conserved soil water allows sustained physiological activity during subsequent periods of developing water deficits, which can be especially beneficial during reproductive development. The shift in the temporal dynamics of water use by water conservations traits has been shown in simulation studies to result in substantial yield increases. It is suggested from this analysis that effective water use through the growing season is more important for increasing crop yield than attempts focused on improving the static, intrinsic TE ratio.
Field evaluation of a novel UV water disinfection system for use in underserved rural communities

Author(s): Younis, BA; Mahoney, LE; Yao, S | Abstract: Reliable, robust, and inexpensive disinfection systems are needed to expand water security in remote and underserviced areas. This paper reports on the deployment and evaluation of a novel UV water-disinfection system in a remote rural community. Prior laboratory tests indicated a 7.12 log10 reduction of the bacteriophage MS-2 at a flow rate of 9.46 liter/min, which corresponds to a supplied UV dose 215 mJ/cm2. Further tests in water containing turbidity levels up to 18 NTU showed E. coli removal remaining above the 5 log10 level. Field testing was performed at a Native American reservation in Northern California where the system was used to treat groundwater obtained from a well with a known fecal contamination. The system was powered by solar panel and was operated on-demand for extended periods. Tests on the treated water showed that the system exceeded the standard of disinfection required for drinking water.
Disparities in functional disability among Arab Americans by nativity, immigrant arrival cohort, and country of birth

Abstract This study contributes to a growing literature that documents the importance of arrival cohort and country of birth for differentiating the health of U.S. immigrants. We use nationally-representative data from nine years of the American Community Survey (2008–2016) to examine if an immigrant health advantage exists among Arab Americans ages 40+ (n = 49,867) and test if differences among the foreign-born vary by arrival cohort (pre-1991, 1991–2000, and 2001+). Results from multivariate logistic regression models find that foreign-born Arab Americans have higher odds of physical and self-care disability, and this varies by immigrant arrival cohort. The post-2001 cohort had the highest odds of both disabilities, while the earlier two cohorts did not differ from the native-born after adjustments for covariates. Compositional differences in birthplace, particularly the large influx of immigrants from Iraq in the most recent cohort, explained these differences. Political instabilities globally have contributed to a growing number of U.S. immigrants with vulnerabilities that might be overlooked when arrival cohorts are not considered.
From the Lubyanka to Abu Ghraib: Political Time, Political Crises, Informal Institutions and the Adoption of

Abstract: This paper will attempt to explain the adoption of torture and abusive practices as methods of interrogation by United States security organizations. I will use a "most dissimilar systems" design comparing the use of torture by the United States and the Soviet Union. I will present a comparative data analysis of the interrogation methods used to establish the basis for comparison. I will use Buthe's (2002) method of comparing parallel historical sequences to test a series of hypotheses concerning the decision to adopt torture as a method of interrogation. Specifically, I will explore the role of leadership styles in political time, responses to political crises, and the creation of accommodating informal institutions as determinants of the adoption of torture as a method of interrogation by security personnel. I conclude with a discussion of the policy consequences of these developments.
Online cognitive-behavioral group intervention for adolescents with chronic illness: A pilot study.

Objective: To assess feasibility and explore preliminary effectiveness of an online cognitive-behavioral group intervention (Op Koers Online) to prevent and/or reduce psychosocial problems by teaching use of active coping skills to adolescents (ages 12 to 18) with chronic illness. Method: Adolescents who signed up for the chat intervention were asked to complete online questionnaires at baseline and postintervention (after 8 weeks). Feasibility was evaluated based on attendance (missed sessions, dropout rate and homework completion), technological issues and with an evaluation questionnaire. Preliminary effectiveness was evaluated with standardized questionnaires: Op Koers Online Questionnaire (disease-related coping skills), Youth Self- Report (emotional and behavioral functioning), Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (Health-Related Quality of Life [HRQoL]). Mean scale scores postintervention were compared with baseline with paired-samples t tests. Effect sizes were calculated. Results: In total, 33 adolescents participated in the intervention, 29 adolescents completed the questionnaires at baseline. Regarding postintervention questionnaires, 25 adolescents completed the evaluation questionnaires and 23 adolescents completed all questionnaires postintervention. Dropout rate was 6%. In 1 session (2%), there were technological issues that caused the session to stop. Participants' overall satisfaction was high. Regarding effectiveness, participants improved significantly in the use of total coping skills and the coping skills "information seeking and giving" and "social competence" after the intervention compared with baseline. Participants also reported significantly fewer withdrawn/depressed behavior and scored significantly better on emotional and psychosocial HRQoL after following the intervention. Conclusions: This pilot study indicates that Op Koers Online is feasible and potentially effective. Further research (a randomized controlled trial) is needed to establish the effects of the intervention.
A Comparative in vivo Study of Semi-constrained and Unconstrained Cervical Artificial Disc Prostheses.

Purpose The objective of this study is to directly compare different types of cervical artificial disc implants using an in vivo model capable of simulating the axial load on a neck that is similar to the human neck. Methods Cervical arthroplasty was performed at C3-4 in 14 healthy female adult Alpine goats. The goats were divided into three groups. Group A received Bryan (unconstrained one-piece design); Group B received ProDisc-C (semi-constrained two-piece design); and Group C received Mobi-C (unconstrained three-piece design) artificial discs. The goats were monitored in a veterinary unit for 6 months with radiography at regular intervals. Results Each goat tolerated cervical arthroplasty well and had satisfactory placement of their implant per intra-operative radiography. Implants monitored in Group A demonstrated no migration. One out of five implants in Group B experienced anterior migration at 3 months. In Group C, anterior migration and disintegration occurred in all four implants, with migration occurring during the first postoperative week in three implants and after 5 weeks in the fourth. Conclusions Unconstrained multi-piece artificial cervical discs may be prone to anterior migration and extrusion out of the disc space. This outcome deserves attention in individuals with a hypermobile neck and/or an occupation involving the use of a head-supported mass, such as helmets.
Map Men: Transnational Lives and Deaths of Geographers in the Making of East Central Europe

Can a life be a map? This is not some postmodern joke, but a serious research question at the heart of Steven Seegel’s provocative Map Men. In it, Seegel places five geographers in a web of maps, l...
Conceptions of Adolescent Friendship Quality in Sport and Music Domains

ABSTRACTPurpose: The purposes of the present study were to (a) compare context-specific conceptions of friendship quality in youth sport and music, and (b) determine how friendship quality is relat...
Changes in nutrient and food group intakes among children and women participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children: findings from the 2005-2008 and 2011-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys.

OBJECTIVE To use nationally representative data to evaluate changes in nutrient and food intakes among children and women participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) before v. after implementation of the 2009 food package revisions. DESIGN Cross-sectional study using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data. NHANES survey cycles were pooled to assess nutrient/food group intakes among household WIC participants pre- (2005-2008) v. post- (2011-2014) implementation of the 2009 food package revisions. SETTING Information regarding WIC participation and 24 h diet recalls were collected at NHANES examination. PARTICIPANTS Children 24-59 months old and women 19-50 years of age in households receiving WIC benefits in the NHANES 2005-2008 and 2011-2014. RESULTS Comparison of WIC participants' dietary intake pre- and post-revision demonstrated changes in mean population intakes of both nutrients and food groups. The food package revisions were associated with increased intakes of fibre (P = 0·004 children, P = 0·013 women) and whole grains (P = 0·001 children, P = 0·087 women). For children only, vegetable intake shifted to higher consumption of legumes (P = 0·013) and decreased intake of starchy vegetables (P = 0·042). No significant changes were observed for dairy or fruit intake of children or women. CONCLUSIONS The study provides insight to what goals of the package revisions were achieved. The findings can inform future food package revisions.
Fast solution strategy for transient heat conduction for arbitrary scan paths in additive manufacturing

Abstract A unique and efficient semi-analytic method is presented for quickly predicting the three-dimensional thermal field produced by conduction from a heat source moving along an arbitrary path. A Green's function approach is used to decouple the solution at each time step into the analytical source contribution and a conduction contribution. The latter is solved numerically using efficient Gaussian convolution algorithms. This decoupling allows for boundary conditions on side boundaries to be satisfied numerically and lowers computational expenses by allowing calculations to be localized around the heat source. The thermal field resulting from arbitrary scan paths are constructed using analytical solutions for elementary linear segments. With focus on efficiency, a novel approach is used to store the calculated analytical line solutions for reuse on multiple other path segments. The results of various scan patterns are presented and successfully verified against finite element simulations. The computational times of predictions are shown to be faster than the corresponding finite element simulation by an order of magnitude with less than 1% average error. Given its ability to quickly predict the thermal history and changes in melt pool geometry due to arbitrary scan paths, this method provides a potentially powerful tool for exploration and optimization of laser powder bed fusion processes.
Abstract 256: Cardiac Fibroblast-derived Exosomes Mediate Endothelial Dysfunction and Heart Failure

Objective: Endothelial cells (ECs) play critical role to maintain the normal heart function. Others and we have previously shown that stress-induced chronic inflammation mediates ECs dysfunction an...
Hands On/Hands Off: Pedagogical Touch in the #MeToo Era

This study explores two key questions: (1) How and why the use of touch—defined here as hands-on physical touch—is effective in teaching voice and Alexander Technique, and (2) How might the use of ...
Speaking fundamental frequency characteristics of Australian women: then and now

Abstract: An investigation of speaking fundamental frequency was carried out on a population of 66 Australian females aged 18–25 years, who were recorded in Adelaide during 1945. The data obtained were compared with those reported for similar groups of women during the past half-century. The mean SFF levels of the 66 Australian speakers were found to be similar to those reported for other women examined during that era but somewhat higher than those for post World War II groups. A second SFF investigation was carried out on 11 of the 66 speakers who were recorded for the second time in 1981 when, as a group, they were approximately 35 years older than at the time of the first recording. The subgroup levels were compared for the two sets of recordings; the second set was also contrasted with similar groups of older women who had been studied during the past decade or two. The SFF levels of the 11 Australians – obtained in 1981 – proved to be quite similar to those of other groups of mature women but substantially lower than for their own voices when recorded 35 years earlier.
3D printed biaxial stretcher compatible with live fluorescence microscopy

Abstract Mechanical characterization and tensile testing of biological samples is important when determining the material properties of a tissue; however, performing tensile testing and tissue stretching while monitoring cellular changes via fluorescence microscopy is often challenging. Additionally, commercially available cell/tissue stretchers are often expensive, hard to customize, and limited in their fluorescence imaging compatibility. We have developed a 3D printed Open source Biaxial Stretcher (OBS) to be a low-cost stage top mountable biaxial stretching system for use with live cell fluorescence microscopy in both upright and inverted microscope configurations. Our OBS takes advantage of readily available open source desktop 3D printer hardware and software to deliver a fully motorized high precision (10 ± 0.5 µm movement accuracy) low cost biaxial stretching device capable of 4.5 cm of XY travel with a touch screen control panel, and an integrated heated platform with sample bath to maintain cell and tissue viability. Further, we designed a series of tissue mounts and clamps to accommodate varying samples from synthetic materials to biological tissue. By creating a low-profile design, we can directly mount the stretcher onto a microscope stage, and through coordinated biaxial stretching we maintain a constant field of view facilitating real-time sample tracking and time-lapse fluorescence imaging.
Public policy: a view from the South: by Vishal Narain, Cambridge, England, Cambridge University Press, 2018, 220 pp., ISBN 9781108429580

Stories and tales have shaped our lives through the course of humanity. In public policy, their role has been increasing in recent years as they are strategically constructed to influence public op...
The Vinca Alkaloids

The periwinkle plant, Cantharanthus roseus G. Don (Vinca rosea Linn.) is endemic to the island of Madagascar, and has long been ascribed a wide assortment of medicinal properties ranging from the treatment of diabetes to wound healing. Of the over fifty alkaloids present in minute quantities within the plant, only two (vincristine and vinblastine) have been isolated, synthesized, and are widely used as chemotherapeutic agents [1, 2]. The antitumor activity of the vinca alkaloids was identified by two independent groups both investigating extracts of Vinca rosea for hypoglycemic activity in the late 1950s [2, 3]. Numerous other natural alkaloids were also investigated but not pursued due to severe toxicity [4]. Now the vinca alkaloids have become part of the standard of care for more than 30 years. A number of semisynthetic derivates have since been identified and tested. Two of these, vindesine and vinorelbine, are currently used in clinical practice. A third, vinflunine, is presently in phase III clinical trials [5, 6].
Prevalence of sexual harassment and sexual assault from patient to provider among women in dermatology and across specialties.

Abstract Background Sexual harassment (SH) includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and hostile conduct that targets someone based on gender and overlaps with some types of sexual assault (SA). SH/SA in health care can occur between providers or between patient and provider. Most studies of SH in medicine focus on SH perpetrated by one health care provider against another, with very few studies examining SH from patient to provider. Objective This study aimed to describe the prevalence and impact of SH/SA from patient to provider, with a particular focus on SH/SA experienced by dermatologists and trainees. Methods An anonymous electronic survey was sent to professional listservs and an online forum, which included representatives from multiple institutions, practice settings, and medical specialties. Trainees and dermatologists were targeted particularly. Results A total of 330 complete responses were included. In all, 83% of respondents reported experiencing SH from a patient. SH from a patient was more frequently reported by women compared with men (94% vs. 52%; p = .001). Behaviors consistent with SA were experienced by 31% of respondents and were more frequently experienced by women (35% vs. 15%; p = .001). Women were more likely to report that patient-to-provider SH contributed to burnout (33% of women vs. 9% of men; p = .002). Female trainees were significantly more likely to have experienced SH compared with female attendings within the past year (94 of 110 trainees [86%] vs. 83 of 127 attendings [65%]; p = .001). There was no significant difference in the proportion of women reporting ever experiencing SH when comparing dermatology and nondermatology specialties. Limitations The limitations of this study include the relatively small sample size, oversampling of trainees, and a gender-biased sample. Conclusion Patient-to-provider SH/SA is widespread, particularly among women and trainees, and may have a significant impact on burnout.
Chain-Growth SuFEx Polycondensation: Molecular Weight Control and Synthesis of Degradable Polysulfates

Sulfur (Ⅵ) fluoride exchange (SuFEx) click chemistry has offered a facile and reliable approach to produce polysul-fates and polysulfonates. However, the current SuFEx polymerization methods lack precise control of target molecular weight and dispersity. Herein, we report the first chain-growth SuFEx polycondensation process by exploiting unique reactivity and selectivity of S-F bonds under SuFEx catalysis. Given the higher reactivity of iminosulfur oxydifluoride versus fluorosulfate, the chain-growth SuFEx polycondensation is realized by using an iminosulfur oxydifluoride-containing compound as the reactive chain initiator and deactivated AB-type aryl silyl ether-fluorosulfates bearing an electron-withdrawing group as monomers. When DBU was utilized as the polymerization catalyst, precise control over polymer molecular weight and polydispersity are achieved. The resulting polymers possess great thermal stability but are easily degradable under mild acidic and basic conditions.
UAV-Enabled Subsurface Characterization Using Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves

AbstractThe implementation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in civil engineering has primarily focused on remote sensing using optical cameras, light detection and ranging (LiDAR), and communicat...
A Model for DHX15 Mediated Disassembly of A-Complex Spliceosomes

A critical step of pre-mRNA splicing is the recruitment of U2 snRNP to the branch point sequence of an intron. U2 snRNP conformation changes extensively during branch helix formation and several RNA-dependent-ATPases are implicated in the process. However, the molecular mechanisms involved remain to be fully dissected. We took advantage of the differential nucleotide triphosphates requirements for DExD/H-box enzymes to probe their contributions to in vitro spliceosome assembly. Both ATP and GTP hydrolysis support the formation of A-complex, indicating the activity of a DEAH-enzyme because DEAD-enzymes are selective for ATP. We immunodepleted DHX15 to assess its involvement and although splicing efficiency decreases with reduced DHX15, A-complex accumulation incongruently increases. DHX15 depletion also results in the persistence of the atypical ATP-independent interaction between U2 snRNP and a minimal substrate that is otherwise destabilized in the presence of either ATP or GTP. These results lead us to hypothesize that DHX15 plays a quality control function in U2 snRNP9s engagement with an intron. In efforts to identify the RNA target of DHX15, we determined that an extended polypyrimidine tract is not necessary for disruption of the atypical interaction between U2 snRNP and the minimal substrate. We also examined U2 snRNA by RNase H digestion and identified nucleotides in the branch binding region that become accessible with both ATP and GTP hydrolysis, again implicating a DEAH-enzyme. Together, our results demonstrate that multiple ATP-dependent rearrangements are likely involved in U2 snRNP addition to the spliceosome and that DHX15 can have an expanded role in splicing.
Clinical Utility of Rigid Blue Light Cystoscopy: Results From a Post Procedure User Survey in a Prospective Multicenter Registry

AbstractIntroduction:Despite the effectiveness of blue light cystoscopy (BLC) in the management of bladder cancer, the adoption of BLC since its approval has been limited. We evaluated the perceive...
Observations and Modeling of an Explosive Coronal Mass Ejection as Observed by LASCO

We present a qualitative and quantitative comparison of a single coronal mass ejection (CME) as observed by LASCO on 5 October 1996 with the results of a two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model. This event was selected as a clear example of a CME that is not caused by the disruption of a helmet streamer. This CME occurs against the background of multiple bright streamers on the west limb. The CME is first seen as a brightening of the entire west limb. The CME has a bright, sharp front that moves outward with no significant change in shape. The CME moves outward with roughly constant velocity that is approximately twice as fast at high latitude as near the streamer. The measured CME mass is 1.2×1016 g. There are two parts to the MHD model. The pre-event corona was calculated using a 2-dimensional bi-modal model. The CME is simulated using a time dependent perturbation at the base of the corona. The model successfully reproduces the observed morphology, velocity profiles, and change in coronal mass. The observed velocity asymmetry is a natural consequence of the structure of the pre-event corona. Animations have been generated from both the data and model to illustrate the good agreement between the observations and simulation. These animations can be found on the CD-ROM which accompanies this volume.
Natural products from plant cell cultures.

Plants produce complex small molecules — natural products — that exhibit anticancer, antimalarial and antimicrobial activity. These molecules play a key role in human medicine. However, plants typically produce these compounds in low quantities, and harvesting plant natural products is frequently expensive, time-consuming and environmentally damaging. Plant cell culture provides a renewable, easily scalable source of plant material. In this chapter we discuss the successes and pitfalls associated with natural product production in plant cell cultures.
Potential virulence-associated factors in Brazilian purpuric fever. Brazilian Purpuric Fever Study Group.

Revue des eventuels facteurs de virulence d'Haemophilus aegyptius responsable de la fievre purpurique bresilienne
The effect of estrogen and progesterone on β-adrenergic receptor activity in rabbit lung tissue☆☆☆

Study of the effect of sex steroids on the development of beta-adrenergic receptors may be essential to an understanding of the mechanisms of both lung maturation and the initiation of labor. (3H)Dihydroalprenolol (DHA) was used to quantify beta-adrenergic receptor sites in mature and immature rabbit lung tissue. DHA binding was rapid, saturable, of high affinity (dissociation constant = 2 nM), and of low capacity (246 to 576 fmoles/mg of protein), and a adrenergic competitors demonstrated both stereoselectivity ([-]isomer much greater than [+]isomer) and a rank order of potency (isoproterenol much greater than norepinephrine greater than epinephrine) characteristic of the beta-adrenergic receptor. beta-Adrenergic receptors in the lung tissue of both mature and immature female New Zealand White rabbits were investigated under various sex steroid situations. Estrogen (diethylstilbestrol, 5 micrograms/day for 10 days) increased the beta-adrenergic receptor site number in immature rabbits compared to matched controls (435 versus 339 fmoles/mg of protein, p less than 0.02 by paired t test). Addition of progesterone (diethylstilbestrol, 5 micrograms/day for 10 days, plus progesterone, 5 mg/day for 3 days) returned the beta-adrenergic receptor site number to control values (321 fmoles/mg of protein, p less than 0.01). In mature rabbits, treatment with progesterone alone (10 mg/day for 4 days) caused a significant reduction in beta-adrenergic receptor site numbers compared to untreated, matched controls (357 versus 493 fmoles/mg of protein, p less than 0.05 by paired t test). in the presence of estrogen, beta-adrenergic receptor activity is enhanced in both mature and immature rabbit lung tissue. Addition of progesterone restores this activity to control values.
Barriers to Discharge: A Quality Improvement Project (P1.029)

OBJECTIVE: To determine if MRI can be done in ER will decrease length of stay and cost of hospitalization versus than those who get MRI as inpatient. BACKGROUND: Stroke is the most common admission to inpatient neurology. We wanted to look into barriers to care and discharge for stroke patients. Barriers included studies such as MRI, echocardiograms, carotid vessel studies, and ancillary consults such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical medicine and rehab, and social work DESIGN/METHODS: Over the course of several months, we compiled a list of patients presenting to the ED with stroke-like symptoms who meet certain inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria: stroke-like symptoms with negative brain MRI for stroke. Exclusion criteria: patients who received tPA. This list of patients is divided into two groups: those who received brain MRI in ED versus those who received MRI on an inpatient basis. We compared cost, NIHSS (NIH stroke scale) and length of stay for the two groups. RESULTS: Average Length of stay for hospitalized patient: 2 days vs 1 day. Average cost of hospitalized versus ED discharge: $27,241 vs $11,220 CONCLUSIONS: Cost of hospitalization for stroke/TIA workup is 58.8% more than workup and discharge from ED. Prolonged work up takes up more acute care beds on Neurology service. Disclosure: Dr. Tran has nothing to disclose. Dr. Vu has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kahlon has nothing to disclose.
Preparation of Type 2 Herpes Simplex Virus Complement-Fixing Antigen

Comparable complement-fixing antigens of type 1 and type 2 herpes simplex virus were produced by extraction of infected African green monkey cells with 0.85% NaCl which was buffered at pH 9.0 with 0.05 m glycine-NaOH. The optimal antigen dilutions were higher in titrations against hyperimmune animal sera than in titrations against human sera. Complement-fixing antibody to type 2 herpes antigen was detected in 5 of 17 sera from healthy humans.
cis-acting sequences required for the germ line expression of the Drosophila gonadal gene.

Abstract We have identified two DNA sequences required for the proper germ line expression of the Drosophila gonadal (gdl) gene. A 53-bp region located from −328 to −276 relative to the gdlM transcription start site was required for the expression of a gdl-lacZ gene fusion in the male germ line. This sequence resides within the upstream z600 gene; however, z600 expression was undetectable in male germ cells. A 30-bp region located from −5 to +25 relative to the gdlF transcription start site was required for the expression of a gdl-lacZ gene fusion in the female germ line.
Tryphostin AG879, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor: prevention of transcriptional activation of the electrophile and the aromatic hydrocarbon response elements

Abstract To investigate a possible role of phosphorylation in the signal transduction pathways responsible for transcriptional regulation of drug-metabolizing enzymes, we tested seven specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (tyrphostins) for their effects on NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1) mRNA levels in mouse hepatoma Hepa-1c1c7 (Hepa-1) cells and chose to study AG879 further. The potent electrophile tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) is known to activate NQO1 gene transcription via the electrophile response element (EPRE). Among the tyrphostins tested, tyrphostin AG879 was unique in preventing the accumulation of tBHQ-induced NQO1 mRNA; this effect was dependent on the AG879 dose and was also sensitive to the time when AG879 was added relative to the beginning of tBHQ treatment. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (dioxin; TCDD) is known to activate Cyp1a1 gene transcription by way of aromatic hydrocarbon response elements (AHREs). We found that AG879 also prevents, to a lesser extent, the AHRE-mediated induction of CYP1A1 and NQO1 mRNA by dioxin. Zinc or cadmium is known to activate metallothionein (Mt1) gene transcription via the metal response element (MRE). AG879 induced MT1 mRNA, and AG879 did not block zinc- or cadmium-induced MT1 mRNA, indicating that the effects of AG879 on NQO1 or CYP1A1 mRNA levels cannot be generalized to all transcripts. Using transient transfection of EPRE-, AHRE-, or MRE-driven luciferase reporter gene constructs in Hepa-1 cells, we showed that the inhibitory effects of AG879 occurred at the level of EPRE- and AHRE-mediated transcription, but that AG879 did not affect the MRE-driven transcriptional response. These data suggest that AG879 might inhibit an unknown tyrosine kinase(s) whose activity is essential for EPRE- and AHRE-mediated trans-activation of certain mammalian genes. These results also indicate that some sharing of common signal transduction pathways might exist in the regulation of genes involved in drug metabolism that also respond to oxidative stress.
Photoluminescence and Electroluminescence Study of Violet-Blue and Green Emitting Polymers and Their Blend

The photoluminescence and electroluminescence of violet-blue (I) and green (II) emitting polymers and their blend were studied. This included the effects of excitation wavelength, concentration, and film thickness on the photoluminescence; also, double-layer LEDs (ITO/PEDOT/polymer/Ca/Al) were fabricated and compared with single-layer LEDs. For the first time a strong dependence of the PL spectra on excitation wavelength for a violet-blue polymer in solution was observed. When the applied voltage was increased, the EL spectra showed a blue shift, and the emission intensity for the observed higher energy transition increased at the expense of the lower energy transition. Forster energy transfer in the photoluminescence and electroluminescence of the polymer blend was also studied. The results indicate that the energy transfer was independent of excitation wavelength and applied voltage. The LED using the blend was found to be more efficient than either of the devices using polymers I or II, because polymer...
Correlations of Scores on the WISC—R, Stanford-Binet, the Slosson Intelligence Test, and the Developing Cognitive Abilities Test for Intellectually Gifted Youth

For a sample of 173 intellectually gifted students, percentiles from the Developing Cognitive Abilities Test were correlated with IQs from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Revised, Stanford-Binet, and Slosson Intelligence Test—Revised. Although the coefficients of the WISC—R and Slosson with the DCAT tended to be significant, they were too low to have practical meaning and those with Stanford-Binet IQs were nonsignificant.
Adapting MPI to MapReduce PaaS Clouds: An Experiment in Cross-Paradigm Execution

One desired attribute of utility computing is the ability for any provider's offering to meet any user's requirement, but the variety of programming paradigms and platform models make this non-trivial. While higher specializations may be implemented on more generic layers, e.g. SaaS on PaaS, or PaaS on IaaS clouds, we attempt the inverse - deploying procedural message passing programs on a MapReduce platform. Although begun as an academic exercise, our experiences provide several insights into the feasibility of such a mapping and highlight some collateral benefits of deploying certain classes of MPI applications on MapReduce platforms. More generally, this potential for cross-paradigm execution marks a characteristic in the utility-like nature of cloud computing. Our approach is based on the concept of adapters, common in traditional utilities, to reconcile application requirements to platform facilities. Our design philosophy, middleware components, and results from a simple experiment are described.
Extraversion, neuroticism, and scores on the Holtzman Inkblot technique.

Summary The Extraversion (E) and Neuroticism (N) scales of the Maudsley Personality Inventory (MPI) were correlated with the 21 scores of the Holtzman Inkblot Technique (HIT). None of the correlations between the E scale and HIT were significant but 6 of the correlations of the N scale and the HIT were statistically significant. The pattern of significant correlations supported the construct validity of the N scale. The scores were factor analyzed. The rotated loadings of the first five factors were strikingly similar to those obtained in analyses of the individual HIT. The E scale had its highest loading on a sixth factor, further indicating its relative independence. The N scale had its highest loading on the HIT factor reflecting psychopathology.
Approximating network reliability estimates using linear and quadratic unreliability of minimal cuts

Abstract A new algorithm is proposed to approximate the terminal-pair network reliability based on minimal cut theory. Unlike many existing models that decompose the network into a series–parallel or parallel–series structure based on minimal cuts or minimal paths, the new model estimates the reliability by summing the linear and quadratic unreliability of each minimal cut set. Given component test data, the new model provides tight moment bounds for the network reliability estimate. Those moment bounds can be used to quantify the network estimation uncertainty propagating from component level estimates. Simulations and numerical examples show that the new model generally outperforms Esary-Proschan and Edge-Packing bounds, especially for high reliability systems.
What Are Parents Really Saying When They Talk With Their Children About Sexuality

Twenty parents attending an urban community college were interviewed about how they respond to common questions children ask about sexuality. Parental responses to children's questions about sexuality were considered in relation to the authoritative and authoritarian patterns of communication identified by Baumrind (1967). The majority of parents were labeled authoritarian based on their responses to five common sexuality topics. Themes that emerged from the qualitative analysis included cultural and religious influences, distinct communication patterns, a focus on specific issues such as HIV/AIDS and sexual orientation, lack of parental knowledge of sexuality, support of school sexuality education, and lack of books and resources.
Disk-resolved photometric analysis of European terrains

The photometric textures of Europa geologic units possessing the same small mean photometric slope angle as found by Dominique et al. (1991) are presently examined on the basis of Hapke's (1981) photometric model. With only one exception, the particles composing the surfaces of most of the units exhibit similar scattering properties. Attention is given to the single-particle scattering functions of the two bright plains regions examined; these are noted to be no less different from each other than both are from the other units. An aging process that affects the albedos and single-particle phase functions is hypothesized for Europa.
Nicotine-induced anxiety-like behavior in a rat model of the novelty-seeking phenotype is associated with long-lasting neuropeptidergic and neuroplastic adaptations in the amygdala: effects of the cannabinoid receptor 1 antagonist AM251.

A rat model of the novelty-seeking phenotype predicts vulnerability to the expression of behavioral sensitization to nicotine, where locomotor reactivity to novelty is used to screen experimentally-naive rats for high (HR) versus low (LR) responders. The present study examines the long-term neuropeptidergic and neuroplastic adaptations associated with the expression of locomotor sensitization to a low dose nicotine challenge and social anxiety-like behavior following chronic intermittent nicotine exposure during adolescence in the LRHR phenotype. Our data show that the expression of behavioral sensitization to nicotine and abstinence-related anxiety are detected in nicotine pre-exposed HRs even across a long (3 wks) abstinence. Moreover, these behavioral effects of nicotine are accompanied by a persistent imbalance between neuropeptide Y and corticotrophin releasing factor systems, and a persistent increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and spinophilin mRNA levels in the amygdala. Furthermore, treatment with the cannabinoid receptor 1 antagonist, AM251 (5 mg/kg) during a short (1 wk) abstinence is ineffective in reversing nicotine-induced anxiety, fluctuations in BDNF and spinophilin mRNAs, and the neuropeptidergic dysregulations in the amygdala; although this treatment is effective in reversing the expression of locomotor sensitization to challenge nicotine even after a long abstinence. Interestingly, the identical AM251 treatment administered during the late phase of a long abstinence further augments anxiety and associated changes in BDNF and spinophilin mRNA in the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala in nicotine pre-exposed HRs. These findings implicate long-lasting neuropeptidergic and neuroplastic changes in the amygdala in vulnerability to the behavioral effects of nicotine in the novelty-seeking phenotype.
Low-Contact-Resistivity Nickel Germanide Contacts on n+Ge with Phosphorus/Antimony Co-Doping and Schottky Barrier Height Lowering

We report a low specific contact resistivity of 5.5 x 10-7 Ωcm2 in nickel germanide (NiGe) contacts on n+ Ge. Data fitting with the contact resistivity model by A.M. Roy et al. (2010) suggests SBH of ~0.44eV for NiGe and ~0.55eV for Al/Ti contacts. We correlate this SBH and specific contact resistivity reduction with the dopant segregation at the NiGe/Ge interface and confirm it by SIMS analysis.
Adventures in fire retardancy

The work of the author's research group on fire retardancy over the past twenty years is reviewed.
Linking-number changes in the DNA substrate during Cre-mediated loxP site-specific recombination

Abstract We have examined the linking-number changes that occur during phage P1 Cre-mediated recombination in vitro between two loxP sites. Such recombination reactions can be divided into three types: intramolecular inversion, in which recombination occurs between two loxP sites in opposite orientations on the same DNA substrate; intramolecular excision, where recombination occurs between two loxP sites that are in the same orientation on the DNA substrate; and intermolecular recombination, which occurs between two loxP sites on separate DNA molecules. Our results indicate that inversion changes the linking number of the substrate DNA by two topological turns. With a negatively supercoiled substrate, the product is changed by +2 turns. A relaxed substrate yields products that have been changed by either +2 or −2 turns. For intermolecular reactions, the sum of the linking numbers of each of the two starting circles is equal to the linking number of the dimer circle generated by recombination, and no change occurs in linking number. For intramolecular excision reactions, the data are most consistent, with no change in linking number during recombination. These results are discussed in terms of models for alignment and synapsis of the recombining sites and the mechanism of strand exchange.
Effects of agrochemicals on weather and climate

In the context of a broad definition of agrochemistry, any chemicals produced by agricultural activities may be included here. Interactions between agrochemicals and their environment are the central theme of this paper. This is elucidated in terms of the alterations of radiant energy transfer, heat budget, and water balance at the interface of air and ground. The disrupted states of the atmosphere are presented by climatic elements, weather phenomena, and edaphic conditions. Realizing that the whole earth-atmosphere system tends to approach a state of minimal free energy, a step by step combination of the physical and/or chemical process is given. Emphasis is on the visible and infrared radiant energy transfer, attenuation, nucleation, sorption-condensation, fermentation, combustion, and radiative heating processes.
Evidence that the gene for herpes simplex virus type 1 DNA polymerase accounts for the capacity of an intertypic recombinant to spread from eye to central nervous system

Abstract HSV-1(17) replicates 100-fold more efficiently than HSV-2(186) within trigeminal ganglia following ocular infection. In order to identify the nucleotide sequences responsible for the differences in the capacity of the two HSV strains to grow within the peripheral nervous system, an intertypic recombinant was generated by infecting neuroblastoma cells with HSV-2(186) and a HSV strain possessing nucleotide sequences from HSV-1(17). The genome of the intertypic recombinant was composed entirely of HSV-2(186) DNA except for 2.0 kb of HSV-1(17) DNA positioned between m.u. 0.413 and 0.426. Following corneal infection of mice, the intertypic recombinant grew to higher titers in both ocular tissues and trigeminal ganglia than did the HSV-2 parent. Most significantly, the intertypic recombinant could spread into the brain from the trigeminal ganglion and kill the host whereas mice inoculated with the HSV-2(186) parent survived infection. The 2.0 kb of HSV-1(17) DNA inserted into the genome of the intertypic recombinant encodes the 5′ terminus of the HSV-1 gene for DNA polymerase. Thus, the results suggest that the difference in the capacity of two HSV strains to replicate within the trigeminal ganglion of its host and to spread into the brain is determined by nucleotide sequences within the gene for DNA polymerase.
Late anaplastic gliomas in children previously treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

At least 33 cases of late anaplastic gliomas in children previously treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia have been discussed in the literature including 20 well-documented cases. The frequency of this second malignancy is much greater than expected and may represent a ‘new syndrome’ with some genetic predisposition. Additionally, CNS prophylaxis which includes both radiation and intrathecal methotrexate appears to work synergistically in increasing the incidence of glial tumors especially multifocal tumors in these patients. The prognosis for these children is dismal but an aggressive treatment approach including surgery, interstitial radiation, and chemotherapy appears to improve survival.
Simultaneous quantification of 9-(β-D-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)guanine, Amdoxovir and Zidovudine in human plasma by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric assay

Abstract A sensitive method was developed and validated for simultaneous measurement of an investigational antiviral nucleoside, Amdoxovir (DAPD), its deaminated metabolite 9-(β- d -1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)guanine (DXG), and Zidovudine (ZDV) in human plasma. This method employed high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization. DXG and DAPD separation with sufficient resolution was necessary since they differ in only one mass to charge ratio, which increases the risk of overlapping MS/MS signals. However, the new method was observed to have functional sensitivity and specificity without interference. Samples were purified by ultrafiltration after protein precipitation with methanol. The total run time was 29 min. A linear calibration range from 2 to 3000 ng mL −1 and 2 to 5000 ng mL −1 was achieved for DAPD and DXG, and ZDV, respectively. Precisions and accuracies were both ±15% (±20% for the lower limit of quantification) and recoveries were higher than 90%. Matrix effects/ion suppressions were also investigated. The analytes were chemically stable under all relevant conditions and the method was successfully applied for the analysis of plasma samples from HIV-infected persons treated with combinations of DAPD and ZDV.
Implementation of an NSOM system for fluorescence microscopy.

Abstract We describe our progress toward an NSOM system intended for fluorescence imaging of biological samples. This process included integration of shear-force feedback into an existing NSOM system. Topographic images acquired using uncoated tips are presented. We also present our initial effort at simulataneous acquisition of topographic and fluorescence data using an aluminum coated tip.
Transferring cleaner production technology to industries in Changzhou and Nantong, China

By relying on cleaner production (CP), companies can simultaneously cut pollution and increase the efficiency of resource use. Governments at all levels in China have invested substantial resources to encourage companies to adopt CP. We investigate what these government efforts have accomplished by examining fourteen case-study companies' responses to CP requirements of city-level government CP programmes in Changzhou and Nantong. Types of company responses can be divided into four categories: complete CP audit adopter, one-time CP audit adopter for assessing an existing technology renovation plan or addressing known pollution violation, pro forma CP audit adopter, and CP audit report producer. Based on our case-study data, the following variables appear to be correlated with companies that are complete CP adopters: leadership commitment to CP; a strong monitoring and management system; an internal system for generating innovations and improvements; and, a high degree of integration of multiple functions such production, R&D, and environmental protection.
Cortical imaging: Capturing the moment

Abstract Recent advances in optical imaging techniques using voltage-sensitive dyes have provided new insights into the dynamics of neural processing in distributed cortical networks.