cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conductivity Measurements of Few Molecule Systems in Metal-Molecule-Metal device Structures

In this paper, we have developed a technique for realizing ultraflat Au using a procedure that should be compatible with microfabricating techniques. We have applied the resulting Au layers in both lateral (few molecule) and vertical (many molecules) molecular electronic device structures. The lateral and vertical device structures are both enabled by the process for realizing ultraflat Au layer. The availability of two molecular test beds provides the ability to compare molecular conduction properties in different local environments. Experiments are in progress to compare conduction properties of various molecular species in the two test beds
The Bioeconomics of Cooperation

When transactions and information are costly and exchange is non-simultaneous, ‘institutions matter’. They matter because exchange under these circumstances subjects the participants to potentially harmful behaviors by other participants, among which are: opportunistic behavior, agency, the free-rider problem, cheating, moral hazard, and adverse selection. Institutions constrain these behaviors, allowing the participants to take advantage of the gains from trade and specialization, and thereby facilitating cooperation. Individuals adhere to institutional rules because they gain by doing so. Because the individual gains are inseparable from the structure of the institutions, the institutions themselves necessarily become the focus of the analysis—as we see in the new institutional economics (NIE).
Cardiovascular risk factors and events in glaucoma patients with peripapillary focal arteriolar narrowing

. Purpose: To evaluate cardiovascular risk factors and events in glaucoma patients with and without peripapillary focal arteriolar narrowing of retinal vessels. Methods: We examined the fundus photographs of 325 consecutive glaucoma patients for evidence of focal arteriolar narrowing of retinal vessels adjacent to the optic disc. Cases and controls were matched for age, race, sex and mean deviation on Humphrey visual field. Medical information regarding cardiovascular risk factors and events was collected from patients' primary care physicians, and this information was confirmed by questionnaires sent to the patients themselves. Results: A total of 58 pairs of cases and controls were matched. The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes was exactly equal in both groups, 65.5% and 27.6%, respectively. Similarly, the prevalences of myocardial infarction, cardiac surgery, angioplasty, family history of heart disease and smoking were nearly identical in both groups. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of strokes or transient ischaemic attacks. The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and mortality was greater in the case group (mean differences of 8.6, p = 0.42 and 5.2, p = 0.25, respectively), however, these differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion: There is no significant relationship between peripapillary focal arteriolar narrowing of retinal vessels and cardiovascular risk factors or events in patients with glaucoma. Proximal narrowing does not appear to be a marker of systemic vascular disease.
Antioxidant-Mediated Reversal of Oxidative Damage in Mouse Modeling of Complex I Inhibition

Preclinical Research Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key component of various aging-related pathologies of the brain that result in dementia. As such, it provides an important avenue in development of therapeutic interventions for a host of neurological disorders. A requirement for functional mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I (CI), to accomplish the normal physiological processes regulating memory, seems intuitive. In the present study, a synthetic lipoylcarnitine antioxidant (PMX-500FI; 100 mg/kg/day po) was administered to female ICR mice (3–4-month old) that were subsequently treated with the mitochondrial CI inhibitor, rotenone (400 mg/kg/day). After 1 week, rotenone-induced impairment of neuronal function was evaluated in the hippocampus, a brain region that is involved in regulating memory formation. Electrophysiological recordings in live brain slices showed that long-term potentiation (LTP) was reduced by rotenone exposure (P 0.05). Potentiation during theta burst stimulation (TBS) was similar among treatment groups (P > 0.05); however, neurotransmitter release, which increased in control mice after TBS, was lower in rotenone treated mice (P < 0.05), and was accompanied by reduced basal synaptic transmission (P < 0.05), increased proapoptotic signaling and decreased extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation (P < 0.05). For each of these determinations, pretreatment with PMX-500FI alleviated the harmful effects of rotenone. These results illustrate that treatment with antioxidant PMX-500FI is protective against rotenone-induced impairment of neuronal bioenergetics in the mouse hippocampus, in regard to both excitatory synaptic physiology and proapoptotic signaling. The protective effect of PMX-500FI against rotenone-induced disruption of cellular bioenergetics may have important therapeutic implications for treating aging-related dementia and other diseases related to mitochondrial dysfunction and/or oxidative damage. Drug Dev Res 76 : 8272–81, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A developmental account of early childhood amnesia.

Abstract This study was an attempt to demonstrate the utility of a developmental approach to the study of early childhood amnesia. Working from a model of early childhood memory development proposed by Nelson and Ross (1980), I hypothesized that children would show early childhood amnesia and that this could be tested by comparing obtained estimates of memory strength to values predicted by a standard retention function. The data confirm this hypothesis for 6- and 10-year-old children and suggest that the early childhood amnesia period extends from birth to a point between the third and fourth birthdays. The data also support a prediction, derived from the aforementioned model, that children would report a disproportionate number of general memories from the amnesia period. Thus, the developmental model provides a useful vehicle for examining early childhood amnesia and helps to frame further questions such as why some specific memories from this period are retained even though most are lost.
Analysis of cure rate survival data under proportional odds model.

Due to significant progress in cancer treatments and management in survival studies involving time to relapse (or death), we often need survival models with cured fraction to account for the subjects enjoying prolonged survival. Our article presents a new proportional odds survival models with a cured fraction using a special hierarchical structure of the latent factors activating cure. This new model has same important differences with classical proportional odds survival models and existing cure-rate survival models. We demonstrate the implementation of Bayesian data analysis using our model with data from the SEER (Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results) database of the National Cancer Institute. Particularly aimed at survival data with cured fraction, we present a novel Bayes method for model comparisons and assessments, and demonstrate our new tool’s superior performance and advantages over competing tools.
Plateau uplifts as a consequence of fractional heating

Abstract Plates are known to undergo rather large and sudden changes in the rates and directions of their motions. The collision of the Indian and Asian plates and the change in direction of the Pacific plate, both about 40 Ma ago, are prime examples. If these changes in plate motion are not the result of changes in the deep mantle convection pattern, but rather a consequence of plate interactions, then shear flows must develop in the asthenosphere to accomodate the relative motion between the plates and deeper mantle. Alternatively, plate interactions may prevent their immediate readjustment to changes in the deep mantle convection pattern and shear flow in the asthenosphere would again be required. This paper examines the possibility that thermal expansion, due to dissipative heating in these shear flows, could produce plateau uplifts in plate interiors. We present a simple analytical model which allows us to follow the increase of temperature in the asthenosphere with time following a change in plate velocity. The production of uplifts on the order of a kilometer within a time span of 30 Ma requires velocity changes of O (10 cm/yr), creep activation enthalpies exceeding 170 kcal/mole in the asthenosphere, and a mantle temperature lower than about 1200°C. The uplifts of the Deccan and Karnataka plateaus in the Indian plate may be explained by this mechanism.
Ribozyme-mediated downregulation of human metallothionein IIa induces apoptosis in human prostate and ovarian cancer cell lines

Human metallothioneins (MTs) are low-molecular-weight, cysteine-rich, metal ion-binding proteins that constitute the majority of intracellular protein thiols. They are overexpressed in prostate and ovarian cancers and are believed to confer resistance to radiation and cytotoxic anticancer drugs. The aim of this study was to investigate the roles of MTs in prostate and ovarian cancer cells and their possible relationship with other cancer development and progression factors. The main problem in investigating the role of MT, however, is the absence of any known specific inhibitor. To this end, in a previous study, we had developed sequence-specific ribozymes (Rzs) targeting MT and had shown their in cellulo efficacy. Here we show that transient transfection of a vector carrying a hammerhead Rz (Rz4-9), designed to cleave class II MT, in the human prostate cancer cell line PC-3 and the ovarian cancer cell line SKOV-3 resulted in a dose-dependent attenuation of MT-II(a) transcripts and dramatic cell loss. Transient transfection with 2 microg of Rz4-9 vector DNA completely abolished MT-II(a) mRNA levels and induced a 94% and a 67% reduction in cell number in PC-3 cells and SKOV-3 cells, respectively. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) showed that the Rz-induced cell loss probably was due to apoptosis, because it was associated with marked increases in the hypodiploid cell population, reaching maximums of 52% and 64% in cultures of PC-3 and SKOV-3, respectively. Additionally, annexin V-propidium iodide double-staining, followed by FACS, confirmed that Rz4-9-induced cell death was due to apoptosis and showed a vector DNA-dependent increase in late apoptotic cell numbers that reached maximums of 80% and 42%, respectively, in PC-3 and SKOV-3 cell cultures transfected with the highest concentration of vector DNA. In parallel experiments, transfection with a vector containing the enzymatically inactive mutant Rz-3-3 or the empty vector was not effective in inducing similar responses. The Rz-induced loss of MT-II(a) mRNA-associated cell death in these cancer cell lines was attended by dose-dependent downregulation of the proto-oncogene c-myc and the apoptosis inhibitory mediator bcl-2, suggesting that these signaling pathways are involved in the process. In conclusion, our data indicate that MT-II(a) is an important cell-survival or anti-apoptotic factor for prostate and ovarian cancer cells and that downregulation of its expression via transgene expression of a sequence-specific Rz is a feasible target for cancer therapy.
Adenosine, a Metabolic Trigger of the Exercise Pressor Reflex in Humans

There is substantial evidence that adenosine activates muscle afferent nerve fibers leading to sympathetic stimulation, but the issue remains controversial. To further test this hypothesis, we used local injections of adenosine into the brachial artery while monitoring systemic muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) with peroneal microneurography. The increase in MSNA induced by 3 mg intrabrachial adenosine (106±32%) was abolished if forearm afferent traffic was interrupted by axillary ganglionic blockade (21±19%, n=5, P P P =0.01). The percent increase in MSNA induced by the various interventions correlated with the percent increase in dialysate adenosine levels ( r =0.96). We conclude that adenosine activates muscle afferent nerves, triggering reflex sympathetic activation.
Dealing With Troubled Writers: A Literacy Teacher's Dilemma

A movement in late 20th-century rhetorical theory asked teachers to encourage writing on personal topics as well as formal, impersonal ones. Thus, to traditional writing goals (pleasing, persuading, and instructing) the exorcism of often deep emotions was added. This movement forced teachers to read and evaluate student writing in a more involved, intimate, and sympathetic manner. An almost inevitable result is the demand for teachers to witness writing that expresses anger, rebellion, the desire for retribution, and so on. Given the legal and professional limits on what teachers can do in dealing with such writing, the dilemma they face is the disturbing consequence. The author offers practical suggestions for teachers who see distressing and sometimes alarming patterns in a student's writing.
Diffusion-limited-aggregation processes with three-particle elementary reactions

A diffusion-limited-aggregation process, in which clusters coalesce by means of a three-particle reaction, A+A+A\ensuremath{\rightarrow}A, is investigated. In one dimension we give a heuristic argument that predicts logarithmic corrections to the mean-field asymptotic behavior for the concentration of clusters of mass m at time t, ${\mathit{C}}_{\mathit{m}}$(t)\ensuremath{\sim}${\mathit{m}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1/2}$[ln(t)/t${]}^{3/4}$, for 1\ensuremath{\ll}m\ensuremath{\ll} \ensuremath{\surd}t/ln(t) . The total concentration of clusters, C(t), decays as C(t)\ensuremath{\sim} \ensuremath{\surd}ln(t)/t at t\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}. We also investigate the problem with a localized steady source of monomers and find that the steady-state concentration C(r) scales as ${\mathit{r}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$[ln(r)${]}^{1/2}$, ${\mathit{r}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$, and ${\mathit{r}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$[ln(r)${]}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1/2}$, respectively, for the spatial dimension d=1, 2, and 3. The total number of clusters, N(t), grows with time as [ln(t)${]}^{3/2}$, ${\mathit{t}}^{1/2}$, and t[ln(t)${]}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1/2}$ for d=1, 2, and 3. Furthermore, in three dimensions we obtain an asymptotic solution for the steady-state cluster-mass distribution, ${\mathit{C}}_{\mathit{m}}$(r)\ensuremath{\sim}${\mathit{r}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$[ln(r)${]}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$\ensuremath{\Phi}(z), with the scaling function \ensuremath{\Phi}(z)=${\mathit{z}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1/2}$exp(-z) and the scaling variable z\ensuremath{\sim}m/ \ensuremath{\surd}ln(r) .
Halophily and Halotolerance in Cyanophytes

The survival, growth and distribution of organisms in hypersaline environments is discussed using cyanophytes (cyanobacteria) as examples. The distinction between halophilic (Na+-requiring) and halotolerant organisms is not adequate to describe the entire spectrum of adaptations to salt. The classical division into stenohaline (narrow) and euryhaline (wide) adaptational types, with optima identified as oligo-, meso- and polyhaline, better reflects both organismal adaptations and the environmental conditions to which these are adjusted and is therefore recommended as a conceptual model.
Creating On-line Individual Education Plans: Preservice Teachers Learn to Make Data-based Decisions

Abstract Preparing regular education teachers to teach in an inclusive setting has become a priority. Prospective teachers must take advantage of relevant resources to optimize learning for all children and technology can be an especially constructive means. However, the literature indicates that preservice teachers lack sufficient experience in identifying, organizing and applying technology resources effectively in classrooms. This article addresses this charge to teacher educators by describing the use, skill acquisition and application of technology of 30 preservice teachers as they conducted an on-line individual education plan project (OIEP). Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to analyze projects, rubrics, and surveys. Results indicated that undergraduates used technologies (e.g., World Wide Web, Inspiration and Excel) and acquired skills (e.g., hyperlinking, and graphing) to organize data. These data were applied in elementary classrooms to make data-based intervention decisions for spe...
NMR structures of peptide--RuII(porphyrin) complexes.

Heme proteins have a surprisingly large array of functions, including electron transfer, oxygen transport, NO sensing, oxidant detoxification, and O2 activation. The protein provides one or two sites for ligation of the metalloporphyrin and multiple peripheral interactions (covalent, hydrophobic, hydrogen-bonding, or ion-pairing) so that the heme is bound to the protein very tightly. The protein environment also fine-tunes the reactivity of the metalloporphyrin. Designing minimal peptides as analogues of heme proteins, we have prepared a series of helical 15-mer peptides that bind strongly to metalloporphyrins and succeeded in solving their solution NMR structures. Interestingly, the structures show that the helix is tilted toward one side of the porphyrin so as to maximize hydrophobic interaction between the peptide and one-half of the porphyrin face. Because of this asymmetry, only three hydrophobic residues are in primary contact with the porphyrin, as confirmed by the NOE signals between the porphyrin...
Momentum distribution of 3He.

S(Q,E) has been obtained for liquid /sup 3/He for Q values between 4 and 7 A/sup -1/ at temperatures of 1.2 and 0.37 K. The higher-temperature data are useful in examination of the role of final-state effects on measurements of S(Q,E). Fermi-liquid properties can be determined from the low-temperature results and the data are consistent with a Fermi temperature of 1.8 +- 0.2 K.
Speed-Accuracy Trade-Off in Recognition Memory

In a recognition memory experiment, the time allowed for retrieval was controlled by using the offset of the probe as a signal to terminate retrieval and respond. The response latencies measured in the experiment indicate that this procedure effectively eliminated fast-guess strategies. The recognition signal-to-noise ratio, d', grows at a negatively accelerated rate as the allowed retrieval time is increased from 0.5 second to 1 and 2 seconds.
Literacy and basic needs satisfaction in Mexico

Abstract While Mexico has experienced substantial rates of economic growth in the last two decades, it lags behind other Third World countries in meeting basic human needs. Literacy is certainly one of the most important of these needs. This study is designed to analyze the effects of different rates of literacy in the various Mexican states on the degree of satisfaction of other needs. Specifically, it explores the hypothesis that past failures to invest adequately in primary education—as indicated by high rates of illiteracy—are a major reason for the high child death rates experienced by certain Mexican states.
Myopic policy for a two-product and multi-period supply contract with different delivery lead times and storage limitation

Abstract This paper considers a two-product and multi-period supply contract in which a buyer orders two products in each period from a supplier with two possible delivery lead times to satisfy multi-period random demands. The expedited one delivers the products immediately and the regular one requires a one-period delivery lead time. The supplier has two production modes. The expensive one produces the products immediately and the regular one requires a one-period production lead time. Unsatisfied demands at the buyer in a period are backordered and the demands must be satisfied in the next period. The two products at the buyer share storage space and there is a limitation on the storage space in each period. The buyer chooses an ordering policy in each period to minimize his expected cost during the planning horizon and the supplier chooses unit expedited ordering costs at the beginning of the planning horizon and a production policy in each period to maximize her expected profit during the planning horizon. We provide conditions under which the buyer's myopic ordering policy and the supplier's myopic production policy are optimal. Our simulation shows that the expedited delivery could benefit both the buyer and the supplier.
Growth Hormone Administration to Long-Living Dwarf Mice Alters Multiple Components of the Antioxidative Defense System

Abstract Endocrine hormones are thought to be involved in processes that contribute to aging. Long-living dwarf mice are growth hormone (GH)-deficient and exhibit enhanced expression of antioxidative defense molecules when compared to normal, wild type littermates. In this study, 3- and 12-month-old Ames dwarf mice received with 50 μg GH or saline for 7 days. Tissues were collected and assayed for several antioxidant molecules. In addition to increased body and liver weights, GH treatment of dwarf mice decreased liver, kidney and heart catalase protein ( P P ≤0.03). Likewise, the activity of GPX was decreased in liver and kidney tissues following GH administration ( P ≤0.04). Exogenous GH increased glutathione levels in brain, muscle and liver ( P ≤0.03) compared to saline controls. This evidence, along with previous data, suggests that GH suppresses key components of systems that counter oxidative stress. Reductions in GH and IGF-1 signaling contribute to extended life spans in a variety of species, which may be partially explained by an increased ability to neutralize deleterious byproducts of metabolism.
Analogical transfer and expertise in legal reasoning

Abstract Analogical transfer and its relation to expertise is examined in a legal context. Three experiments were conducted comparing the performance of novices (introductory tax students) and of experts (experienced tax practitioners from multinational public accounting firms) on tasks involving the application of tax laws. In Experiment 1 subjects completed a target problem after reading a decided case that was either analogous or not analogous to a target problem. A limited amount of transfer was observed, with no differential rate of transfer across experience levels. In Experiments 2 and 3 attempts were made to facilitate transfer of knowledge by inducing transfer-appropriate processing of the source analog and by providing multiple source analogs. The results of both experiments indicate an interaction between treatment and expertise. Unexpectedly, the facilitating treatments reduced the transfer of knowledge for experts while increasing the transfer for novices. Subsequent analysis of the responses of the expert subjects indicates that for the more experienced expert subjects a highly proceduralized rule interfered with the knowledge transfer when that rule was made salient by the facilitating treatments. The less experienced expert subjects behaved in a manner consistent with the hypotheses. This poor performance of the more experienced experts results from the inflexibility in expert problem solving due to the proceduralization of information processing. Frensch and Sternberg (1989) demonstrate that this type of inflexibility is one of the costs of expertise and results from the development of a large and highly complex knowledge base containing numerous well developed strategies.
Spin-wave resonance

Developments which led to the observation of spin-wave resonance (SWR) spectra in metallic films are presented. The method is discussed with special emphasis placed on the selection of suitable film samples, the counting of resonance peaks, the assignment of mode numbers, the applicability of inhomogeneity models, and the electromagnetic corrections usually applied to the measured dispersion of the long-wavelength spin-wave peaks. Then, in a review of applications of the method, several points of interpretation which arose subsequent to the publication of the results, are discussed. Finally, some future uses of the SWR method are listed.
Dissociation Dynamics of Oriented DF-HF and HF-DF Complexes: Evidence for Direct and Indirect Dissociation

Photofragment angular distributions have been obtained for HF−DF and DF−HF, resulting from excitation of the H−F stretching vibrations. The hybrid band associated with this vibration in HF−DF allows us access to both the Ka = 1 ← 0 and Ka = 0 ← 0 subbands, while for DF−HF only the Ka = 0 ← 0 transitions are observed. Analysis of these data provides us with detailed information on the final state distribution of the two rotor fragments, including the intermolecular scalar correlations. The dissociation energies (D0) are determined for both isomers, namely, 1157(2) cm-1 and 1082(2) cm-1 for HF−DF and DF−HF, respectively. The final state distribution for DF−HF shows that the proton donor molecule gives rise to a highly rotationally excited fragment, while the cofragment arising from the proton acceptor is formed in low-j states, a behavior which is consistent with direct dissociation. For HF−DF the results suggest that dissociation is indirect, in the sense that energy is coupled to states involving the clos...
Orthonormal wavelet representation using Butterworth filters

Butterworth wavelets are introduced and it is shown that they constitute a large class of orthonormal wavelets. Advantages of this approach are the simplicity of the analyzing wavelet design, connections with the digital filter design techniques, FIR and IIR type of implementations and computational savings in the IIR case which gives rise to fast wavelet transform algorithms. A mirror representation and nonorthogonal wavelet expansion are discussed in this context.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Influence of Neuropathology on the fMRI Signal: A Measurement of Brain or Vein?

There is a rapidly growing literature using fMRI technology to investigate the various forms of behavioral impairment associated with brain injury and disease. Given this, surprisingly little work has been conducted to examine the influence of neuropathophysiological processes on the fMRI signal. This paper reviews the literature examining baseline alteration in cerebrovascular parameters associated with normal aging, brain injury, and brain disease. In addition, findings from three cases of individuals with severe brain trauma will be presented to show the influence of brain trauma on baseline cerebrovascular parameters measured by fMRI. The methods used here can be implemented by other investigators to accurately isolate specific hemodynamic changes that can influence the BOLD fMRI signal.
Evaluation of a Social Stories™ intervention implemented by pre-service teachers for students with autism in general education settings

Abstract Pre-service teachers were trained to implement a Social Stories™ intervention to three students with autism in the general education classroom. A multiple baseline across students was used to assess the effects of Social Stories on classroom behavior and an alternating treatments design was used to compare two conditions. In one condition (immediate) data on student behavior was collected immediately following exposure to the Social Stories and in the second condition (delayed) data was collected after a delay of several hours following exposure to Social Stories. Results indicate some improvement in classroom behavior following Social Stories for all three students. No differences between the immediate and delayed conditions were noted in student behavior. Improvements in classroom behavior considered in tandem with treatment fidelity, social validity, and peer comparison data suggest Social Stories may not be a particularly powerful intervention in terms of the magnitude of behavior change, but that they may offer a simple, acceptable, classroom friendly intervention.
Central and peripheral region tibial plateau chondrocytes respond differently to in vitro dynamic compression.

Summary Objective The objective of this study was to test the hypotheses that chondrocytes from distinct regions of the porcine tibial plateau: (1) display region-specific baseline gene expression, and (2) respond differently to in vitro mechanical loading. Methods Articular cartilage explants were obtained from central (not covered by meniscus) and peripheral (covered by meniscus) regions of porcine tibial plateaus. For baseline gene expression analysis, samples were snap frozen. To determine the effect of mechanical loading, central and peripheral region explants were exposed to equivalent dynamic compression (0–100kPa) and compared to site-matched free-swelling controls (FSCs). mRNA levels for type II collagen (CII), aggrecan (AGGR), matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1), MMP-3, MMP-13, A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 (ADAM-TS4), ADAM-TS5, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1), TIMP-2, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) were quantified using real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results At baseline, mRNA levels for the structural proteins CII and AGGR were approximately twofold greater in the central region compared with peripheral region explants. In vitro dynamic compression strongly affected expression levels for CII, AGGR, MMP-3, and TIMP-2 relative to FSCs. Response differed significantly by region, with greater upregulation of CII, AGGR, and MMP-3 in central region explants. Conclusions Chondrocytes from different regions of the porcine tibial plateau express mRNA for structural proteins at different levels and respond to equivalent in vitro mechanical loading with distinctive changes in gene expression. These regional biological variations appear to be related to the local mechanical environment in the normal joint, and thus may indicate a sensitivity of the joint to conditions that alter joint loading such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, meniscectomy, or joint instability.
The generalization of anxiety reduction following systematic desensitization of snake anxiety.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the generalizing effects of systematic desensitization using behavioral and self-report measures. Nineteen female students who reported “terror” or “very much fear” to snakes and to either rats or spiders on a modified Fear Survey Schedule II (FSS II) were used as Ss. The twelve Ss in the treatment group were given avoidance tests in the presence of a snake and then to either a spider or rat. Treatment Ss were then given desensitization for snakes, following the procedure employed by Garlington and Cotler (1968). This involved two sessions of relaxation training, two sessions of visualization training, and up to ten sessions of desensitization. Desensitization was continued until each S had completed the 16-item snake hierarchy. Following the last desensitization session, the treatment Ss were again given the modified FSS II and the avoidance tests. One month later, a follow-up was completed; and the treatment Ss were given the avoidance tests for the third time. At this time, the seven control Ss were called in and were given the questionnaire and the avoidance tests. The results revealed significant reductions in behavioral and self-report responses of the treatment Ss with respect to snakes, spiders, and overall responses to the modified FSS II. However, the differences between the experimental and control groups were not as clear-cut as had been expected. Thus, the generalization hypothesis was partially confirmed. Several findings with respect to self-report versus behavioral measures and proper selection of control groups were discussed.
Abstract 1599: Radiosensitization of GBM by a novel peptidomimetic of the Second Mitochondria-derived Activator of Caspases (SMAC).

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC TL32711 is a novel small molecule peptidomimetic of the SMAC (Second Mitochondria-derived Activator of Caspases) that promotes caspase activation in the cytochrome c/Apaf-1/caspase-9 pathway. Normally SMAC is located in the mitochondria; however it is released into the cytosol when cells undergo apoptosis. Release into the cytosol and cleavage of SMAC promotes caspase-9 activation by binding to inhibitors of apoptosis proteins, IAPs. Removing the inhibitory activity of IAPs increases cells’ sensitivity to apoptotic stimuli and abrogates NF-κB survival signaling. Thus, by targeting and eliminating IAPs, SMAC mimetics re-activate death signals in cancer cells, inhibit resistance mechanisms and induce tumor death by apoptosis. This study was undertaken to determine radiation sensitization potential of TL32711 in GBM using in vitro and in vivo approaches. TL32711 alone did not cause any killing effects in GBM cells. However, in vitro apoptosis was increased when TL32711 was combined with radiation in GBM cell lines. In vivo data demonstrated that TL32711 alone delayed the growth of implanted xenograft tumors that were further delayed when combined with radiation. The survival of mice was greatly increased in TL32711 plus radiation treated GBM intracranial orthotopic model when compared to TL32711 or radiation treatment alone. Mechanistically, TL32711 confers radiation sensitization by abrogating NFκB activity that is elevated by radiation-induced TNF-α. Taken together, this is the first report that provides strong evidence that TL32711 in combination with ionizing radiation has potential to increase the effectiveness of radiotherapy. Funded by NCI Contract No. HHSN261200800001E. Citation Format: David Cerna, Donna Carter, Naoko Takebe, C. Norman Coleman, Mansoor M. Ahmed, Stephen Yoo. Radiosensitization of GBM by a novel peptidomimetic of the Second Mitochondria-derived Activator of Caspases (SMAC). [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1599. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-1599
Brief cognitive-behavioral treatment for adolescent suicide attempters and their families

ABSTRACT Objective This article describes a brief, standardized, cognitive-behavioral treatment program for adolescent suicide attempters and their families. Method Successful Negotiation Acting Positively (SNAP) treatment consists of a series of structured activities that create a positive family atmosphere, teach problem-solving skills, shift the family's understanding of their problems to troublesome situations rather than difficult individuals, and build confidence in the treatment professional, thereby reducing conditions associated with future attempts. Results SNAP treatment has been systematically administered to more than 100 suicidal adolescents and their families as part of an ongoing treatment study. Although these results are not yet available, our initial experience suggests that SNAP treatment can be delivered in a reliable fashion and is well accepted by both patients and therapists. Conclusions Although suicidality in youth constitutes a major public health problem, few therapeutic interventions have been developed specifically for suicidal adolescents. SNAP treatment addresses a number of issues critical to successful interventions with this population, including their historically poor treatment compliance, the need for family involvement in treatment, and an emphasis on coping and problem-solving strategies. Moreover, the brief, structured format of SNAP treatment is consistent with the growing trend toward standardized, empirically tested, and cost-efficient interventions.
Mercury activates phospholipase a(2) and induces formation of arachidonic Acid metabolites in vascular endothelial cells.

ABSTRACTCurrently, mercury has been identified as a risk factor in cardiovascular diseases among humans. Here, we tested our hypothesis that mercury modulates the activity of the vascular endothelial cell (EC) lipid signaling enzyme phospholipase A2 (PLA2), which is an important player in the EC barrier functions. Monolayers of bovine pulmonary artery ECs (BPAECs) in culture, following labeling of membrane phospholipids with [3H]arachidonic acid (AA), were exposed to the inorganic form of mercury, mercury chloride, and the release of free AA (index of PLA2 activity) and formation of AA metabolites were determined by liquid scintillation counting and enzyme immunoassay, respectively. Mercury chloride significantly activated PLA2 in BPAECs in a dose-dependent (0 to 50 μM) and time-dependent (0 to 120 min) fashion. Metal chelators significantly attenuated mercury-induced PLA2 activation, suggesting that cellular mercury–ligand interaction is required for the enzyme activation and that chelators are suitable ...
The Importance of IGHV Mutational Status in del(11q) and del(17p) Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Abstract Background Most patients with CLL with a poor-risk cytogenetic profile have an unmutated IGHV sequence. Limited clinical information exists for patients with CLL who have a poor-risk cytogenetic profile and a mutated or good-risk IGHV status. We retrospectively screened all patients with CLL seen at our institution from 2006 onward who harbored a del(11q) or del(17p) CLL detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis for whom an IGHV analysis was requested. In 66 evaluable patients, 50 (76%) had an unmutated IGHV sequence. Thirty-nine patients (59%) had del(11q) and 27 patients (41%) had del(17p); no patient in this series had both del(11q) and del(17p). The patients' initial clinical presentations were similar in both mutational groups. Patients with an unmutated IGHV sequence were more likely to receive treatment and to have a shorter survival, with an estimated 3-year overall survival (OS) of 81% compared with 100% in the group with a mutated IGHV sequence (log rank, P = .06). These data suggest that IGHV mutational status has prognostic relevance even in patients with CLL who are defined as poor risk by genomic FISH analysis.
Sarcophagus: Chernobyl in Historical Light

In the following pages, I will guide the reader through a tour of a post-Chernobyl social imaginary, a theater of images let loose after an invisible catastrophe, summoning the social body to experience it as a turning point in history. I document a series of encounters with multigenerational Ukrainian informants to explore their experiences of the Chernobyl disaster within perceptions of historical truth. How did they experience history and Soviet state power before and after Chernobyl? How did they settle back into their bodies? What does it mean to be alive in a heavily contaminated environment controlled by science and the sovereign power of the state? These questions are the underlying basis for comprehending how individuals navigate the shock of a nuclear disaster. As an ethnographer of Ukrainian-American background, I come face-to-face with the strangeness of the disaster in light of my family's migration from Ukraine.
Remote estimation of soil moisture availability and fractional vegetation cover for agricultural fields

The purpose of this paper is to present a method for using remote measurements to estimate vegetation fraction, surface energy fluxes and the root zone and soil surface water contents for partial vegetation canopies. The primary tools are a boundary layer model with vegetation and substrate components and two image products: the variation of surface radiometric temperature vs. normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and the standard deviation of radiometric surface temperature vs. radiometric surface temperature. The method is based on determining: (1) asymptotic values of two radiometric surface temperatures for sunlit bare soil and for dense sunlit vegetation; and (2) a relationship between NDVI and surface temperature, which we call the axis of variation. The method is illustrated using aircraft and surface measurements made at Lubbon during the French HAPEX field experiment (1986).
One hundred percent oxygen reverses muscle hypoxia in a rat hindlimb model of acute arterial occlusion.

Abstract Significant morbidity results from extremity ischemia after acute arterial occlusion. Re-establishment of arterial flow is considered to be the ideal treatment, yet substantial tissue loss can occur before this is accomplished. Using a rat hindlimb model we investigated whether the administration of 100% oxygen would decrease tissue hypoxia from acute arterial occlusion. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were used, and PO 2 recordings were taken from the gastrocnemius muscle by use of an oxygen electrode. Baseline muscle PO 2 was recorded, and then the femoral artery was occluded. Repeat recordings were made after 20 minutes of ventilation with room air and after an additional 20 minutes of ventilation with 100% oxygen ( N = 10). Control groups consisted of animals undergoing occlusion but continued on room air ( N = 3) and animals undergoing sham occlusion but receiving the period of 100% oxygen ventilation ( N = 3). Femoral artery occlusion produced a reduction in muscle PO 2 from 28.0 ± 1.4 to 6.1 ± 2.0 (mean ± SEM, p p 2 than the occluded + oxygen group (94 ± 12 vs 27.3 ± 2.0, p
Model for a collimated spin-wave beam generated by a single-layer spin torque nanocontact

A model of spin-torque-induced magnetization dynamics based on semiclassical spin diffusion theory for a single-layer nanocontact is presented. The model incorporates effects due to the current-induced Oersted field and predicts the generation of a variety of spatially dependent, coherent, precessional magnetic wave structures. Directionally controllable collimated spin-wave beams, vortex spiral waves, and localized standing waves are found to be excited by the interplay of the Oersted field and the orientation of an applied field. These fields act as a spin-wave ``corral'' around the nanocontact that controls the propagation of spin waves in certain directions.
What Does It Mean to Be in Touch With Oneself? Testing a Social Character Model of Self-congruence

What does it mean to be in or out of touch with oneself? Using undergraduate samples we tested a new conception and measure of self-congruence, based on the social character that people inhabit in their interpersonal lives. The measure quantifies whether the Big Five traits of a person's typical social character are consistent with the traits of his/her unguarded self. Study 1 (N = 135) showed that the non-discrepant character measure predicted subjective well-being (SWB), independently of the traits (i.e., low neuroticism, high extraversion) comprising the measure. The association with SWB was also independent of Goldman and Kernis's (2002) Likert-based measure of authenticity. Study 2 (N = 170) replicated these effects and also showed that the new measure was associated with self-concept differentiation (SCD; Donahue, Robins, Roberts, & John, 1993) and, in fact, accounted for SCD's effects. Study 2 demonstrated that psychological need-satisfaction mediated the link between having a non-discrepant social...
Microcapsule Generation Using a Compound Jet Instability

A new microcapsule generation technique is presented. The microcapsule system has been built based on conventional flow cytometry. The results show that the current system can control the jet diameters of each component solution comprising a compound jet, in addition to the resultant microcapsule diameter, using the pressure balance between adjacent fluids in the hydrodynamic focusing region. It has been also shown that the synchronized breakup of the compound jet is critical for the reservoir-type morphology of the microcapsules.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Operating orbit system with two dissimilar units and corresponding standby

An operating orbit system with two dissimilar units is studied. The orbit is said to be in an operative state if both of its units are good and one is operative at a time. Two units are kept in standby for replacing the units in the orbit. As soon as a unit of the orbit fails, the corresponding standby unit immediately takes its place. The system is said to have failed if at least two similar units fail. Only the totally failed systems are repaired. Using regenerative point technique, some important reliability characteristics of interest have been obtained.
A quantitative analysis of valgus torque on the ACL: A human cadaveric study

The loads needed to elicit a positive pivot shift test in a knee with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture have not been quantified. The coupled anterior tibial translation (ATT), coupled internal tibial rotation (ITR), and the in situ force in the ACL in response to a valgus torque, an inherent component of the pivot shift test, were measured in 10 human cadaveric knee specimens. Using a robotic/universal force-moment sensor testing system, valgus torques ranging from 0.0 to 10.0 Nm were applied in nine increments on the intact and ACL-deficient knee in flexion ranging from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. At 15 degrees of knee flexion, the coupled ATT and ITR were significantly increased in the ACL-deficient knee when compared to the intact knee. Coupled ATT increased a maximum of 291% (6.7 mm, p or =6.7 Nm. The in situ force in the ACL was less than 20 N for all flexion angles when a torque between 3.3 and 5.0 Nm was applied. Low valgus torque elicited tibial subluxation in the ACL-deficient knee with low in situ ACL forces, similar to a positive pivot shift test. Thus, application of a valgus torque may be suitable to evaluate ACL-deficient and ACL-reconstructed knees, since subluxation can be achieved with minimal harm to the ACL graft. This work is important in understanding one load component needed for the pivot shift examination; further studies quantifying other load components are essential for better comprehension of the in vivo pivot shift examination.
Chronic angiotensin II AT1 receptor blockade increases cerebral cortical microvessel density

Angiotensin II is known to stimulate angiogenesis in the peripheral circulation through activation of the angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor. This study investigated the effect of angiotensin rec...
Changes in Blubber Contaminant Concentrations in California Sea Lions (Zalophus californianus) associated with Weight Loss and Gain during Rehabilitation

California sea lions have high levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in their blubber. Animals affected by domoic acid fast and refeed during their rehabilitation. We studied the effect of...
Further purification and characterization of human 3-methyladenine-DNA glycosylase. Evidence for broad specificity.

Abstract Further purification of a human placental 3-methyladenine-DNA glycosylase by phosphocellulose column chromatography yielded a 6000-fold increase in specific activity with greater than 5% recovery. Although 3-methyladenine was the predominant base released from double-stranded methylated DNA by this enzyme, minor releasing activities for 7-methylguanine and 3-methylguanine were also observed. During purification, the three DNA glycosylase activities consistently copurified with constant ratios of specific activity. Moreover, all the activities were heat-inactivated at 50°C at the same rate, required double-stranded methylated DNA as substrate, were inhibited by spermine and spermidine, and were not subject to product inhibition. These data strengthen the likelihood that the three activities are associated with a single DNA glycosylase.