cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparative transcriptomics reveal distinct patterns of gene expression conservation through vertebrate embryogenesis

ABSTRACT Despite the diversity of life, studies of variation across animals often remind us of our deep evolutionary past. Abundant genome sequencing over the last ∼25 years reveals remarkable conservation of genes and recent analyses of gene regulatory networks illustrate that not only genes but entire pathways are conserved, reused, and elaborated in the evolution of diversity. Predating these discoveries, 19th-century embryologists observed that though morphology at birth varies tremendously, certain stages of embryogenesis appear remarkably similar across vertebrates. Specifically, while early and late stages are variable across species, anatomy of mid-stages embryos (the phylotypic stage) is conserved. This model of vertebrate development and diversification has found mixed support in recent analyses comparing gene expression across species possibly owing to differences across studies in species, embryonic stages, and gene sets compared. Here we perform a meta-analysis of 186 microarray and RNA-seq expression data sets covering embryogenesis in six vertebrate species spanning ∼420 million years of evolution. We use an unbiased clustering approach to group stages of embryogenesis by transcriptomic similarity and ask whether gene expression similarity of clustered embryonic stages deviates from the null hypothesis of no relationship between timing and diversification. We use a phylogenetic comparative approach to characterize expression conservation pattern (i.e., early conservation, hourglass, inverse hourglass, late conservation, or no relationship) of each gene at each evolutionary node. We find an enrichment of early conservation and hourglass patterns and a large depletion of genes exhibiting no distinguishable pattern of conservation. Using this approach, we ask whether the proportions of genes following distinct evolutionary conservation patterns change through evolutionary time and whether genes consistently follow the same pattern across nodes of the vertebrate phylogeny. We find that genes exhibiting an hourglass pattern at one node of the phylogeny are more likely to show an hourglass pattern at other nodes with 89 hourglass genes shared in at least three of the four nodes compared to only six early conservation genes. Consistent with the hourglass hypothesis, this finding suggests that genes following an hourglass pattern are more conserved over evolutionary time.
A Matrix Pencil Approach to the Cover Problem for Linear Systems

Abstract For linear systems, a family of cover problems of the geometric theory are introduced as extensions of the standard cover problem and a matrix pencil formulation of such problems is given. It is shown that the solvability of such problems is reduced to a problem of Kronecker Invariant Transformation by Matrix Pencil Augmentation and a Matrix Pencil Realisation Problem. Necessary, as well as sufficient conditions for solvability of both problems are given, which lead to a number of conditions for solvability of the partial, as well as standard cover problem. The special cases of left regular, regular solutions of the cover problem are investigated and a parametrisation of such families of solutions is given.
Advocacy for Couples and Families: New Directions APA Publication Manual (7th Edition):

The 7th edition APA Publication Manual (Manual) was released in October 2019. The significant changes between the 6th edition and 7th edition of the Manual were described in a previous issue of The...
Examining the Social Emotional Health Survey-Secondary for Use with Latinx Youth:

Culturally responsive assessment practices include validated measures appropriate for use with diverse populations. Considering the increasing population of Latinx students in US schools, measures ...
MPEG1/Perforin-2 Haploinsufficiency Associated Polymicrobial Skin Infections and Considerations for Interferon-γ Therapy.

Author(s): Merselis, Leidy C; Jiang, Shirley Y; Nelson, Stanley F; Lee, Hane; Prabaker, Kavitha K; Baker, Jennifer L; Munson, George P; Butte, Manish J | Abstract: IntroductionMacrophage expressed gene 1 (MPEG1) is highly expressed in macrophages and other phagocytes. The gene encodes a bactericidal pore-forming protein, dubbed Perforin-2. Structural-, animal-, and cell-based studies have established that perforin-2 facilitates the destruction of phagocytosed microbes upon its activation within acidic phagosomes. Relative to wild-type controls, Mpeg1 knockout mice suffer significantly higher mortality rates when challenged with gram-negative or -positive pathogens. Only four variants of MPEG1 have been functionally characterized, each in association with pulmonary infections. Here we report a new MPEG1 non-sense variant in a patient with the a newly described association with persistent polymicrobial infections of the skin and soft tissue.Case descriptionA young adult female patient was evaluated for recurrent abscesses and cellulitis of the breast and demonstrated a heterozygous, rare variant in MPEG1 p.Tyr430*. Multiple courses of broad-spectrum antimicrobials and surgical incision and drainage failed to resolve the infection. Functional studies revealed that the truncation variant resulted in significantly reduced capacity of the patient's phagocytes to kill intracellular bacteria. Patient-derived macrophages responded to interferon gamma (IFN-γ) by significantly increasing the expression of MPEG1. IFN-γ treatment supported perforin-2 dependent bactericidal activity and wound healing.ConclusionsThis case expands the phenotype of MPEG1 deficiency to include severe skin and soft tissue infection. We showed that haploinsufficiency of perforin-2 reduced the bactericidal capacity of human phagocytes. Interferon-gamma therapy increases expression of perforin-2, which may compensate for such variants. Thus, treatment with IFN-γ could help prevent infections.
Human 5p-tailed Mirtrons are Processed by RNaseP

Approximately a thousand microRNAs (miRNAs) are documented from human cells. A third appear to transit non-canonical pathways that typically bypass processing by Drosha, the dedicated nuclear miRNA producing enzyme. The largest class of non-canonical miRNAs are mirtrons which eschew Drosha to mature through spliceosome activity. While mirtrons are found in several configurations, the vast majority of human mirtron species are 5-tailed. For these mirtrons, a 3 splice site defines the 3 end of their hairpin precursor while a "tail" of variable length separates the 5 base of the hairpin from the nearest splice site. How this tail is removed is not understood. Here we examine sequence motifs in 5-tailed mirtrons and interactions with RNA turnover processes to characterize biogenesis processes. Through studying the high confidence 5-tailed mirtron, hsa-miR-5010, we identify RNaseP as necessary and sufficient for "severing" the 5 tail of this mirtron. Further, depletion of RNaseP activity globally decreased 5-tailed mirtron expression implicating this endoribonuclease in biogenesis of the entire class. Moreover, as 5-tailed mirtron biogenesis appears to be connected to tRNA processing we found a strong correlation between accumulation of tRNA fragments (tRFs) and 5-tailed mirtron abundance. This suggests that dysregulation of tRNA processing seen in cancers may also impact expression of the [~]400 5-tailed mirtrons encoded in the human genome. SUMMARYAbundant non-canonical human miRNAs referred to as tailed mirtrons are processed by RNaseP, which "severs" tail nucleotides to yield a precursor hairpin suitable for Dicer processing. Biogenesis of these miRNAs is correlated with tRFs, which are also products of RNaseP processing.
Problems: Transmission Line Model and Performance

In this chapter, the problems concerning with the transmission line model and performance are presented. The subjects include transmission line models, transmission line voltage regulation, transmission line compensation, and features of transmission matrix. In this chapter, the problems are categorized in different levels based on their difficulty levels (easy, normal, and hard) and calculation amounts (small, normal, and large). Additionally, the problems are ordered from the easiest problem with the smallest computations to the most difficult problems with the largest calculations.
Testing the role of body size and litter depth on invertebrate diversity across six forests in North America

Ecologists search for rules by which traits dictate the abundance and distribution of species. Here we search for rules that apply across three common taxa of litter invertebrates in six North American forests from Panama to Oregon. We use image analysis to quantify the abundance and body size distributions of mites, springtails, and spiders in 21-m2 plots per forest. We contrast three hypotheses: two of which focus on trait-abundance relationships and a third linking abundance to species richness. Despite three orders of magnitude variation in size, the predicted negative relationship between mean body size and abundance per m2 occurred in only 18% of cases-never for large bodied taxa like spiders. We likewise found only 18% of tests supported our prediction that increasing litter depth allows for high abundance; 2/3 of which occurred at a single deciduous forest in Massachusetts. In contrast, invertebrate abundance constrained species richness 76% of the time. Our results suggest that body size and habitat volume in brown food webs are rarely good predictors of variation in abundance, but that variation in diversity is generally well predicted by abundance.
Decentring America’s nonprofit sector: reflections on Salamon’s crises analysis

Salamon argues that the nonprofit sector is the core or “center” of civil society. He correctly diagnoses the nonprofit sector's problems but his proposal to “hold the center” through sectoral renewal and a partnership model of state–nonprofit relations is problematic. This is the case in part because the effects of economic globalization are reducing nation-state autonomy. In addition, fragmentation of social identity in a postmodern era challenges sectoral legitimacy, while devolution and localization of social welfare responsibilities reduce nonprofit effectiveness. On the basis of U.S. evidence, I argue that, rather than trying to hold the center, we should decenter the nonprofit sector—away from dominant institutions, powerful groups, and privileged places—and join the margins in an effort to weave a new, more humane and inclusive social contract.
Naturally occurring neuron death and its regulation by developing neural pathways.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the naturally occurring neuron death and its regulation by developing neural pathways. The chapter describes degenerating neurons and shows how the morphological expression of cell death is closely related to a neuron's state of maturity. The timing of natural cell death is also considered to define where natural neuron death fits into other aspects of neural development and neuron differentiation. A large proportion of neurons that are destined to die naturally have a capacity to differentiate normally. Experimental studies show the dependence that a neuron has on the cell population with which it ultimately connects. Removal of targets for certain populations of neurons accentuates the normal attrition of neurons during development. The chapter also discusses the possible functions of cell death to provide a comprehensive explanation for this phenomenon.
Optical transceiver using code-multiplexed optical scanner

This paper presents a novel transceiver for agile two-way free-space communications in the optical domain using the code-multiplexed optical scanner (C-MOS). This technique can also be used for infrared band optical radar, counter-measures, and target designation.
The study of plastic package cracking induced by the moisture/solder reflow process

The relationship between the size of plastic internal cracks and the extent of plastic delamination was investigated by using scanning acoustic tomography and visual cross-sectional inspection. Plastic internal cracks grow larger as plastic delamination spreads during consecutive moisture/solder reflow process stress tests. The effect of die pad size on plastic package cracking induced by the moisture/solder reflow process was studied. It was found that the extent of package cracking decreased with longer die pads due to the venting effect of the support pin. A package design that demonstrates good performance with respect to package cracks is presented. >
Foodborne illness: the risk environment for chain restaurants in the United States

Abstract This study examines a series of foodborne-illness lawsuits filed between 1985 and 1999—causes, outcomes, payments—along with the perceptions of hospitality industry affiliates about the degree of liability and level of training associated with certain foodborne pathogens. Of the 214 cases analyzed, approximately 109 or 50.9% named chain restaurants as the defendant, of which 52 (47.7%) resulted in payment to the plaintiff. Ways that operators can minimize the risk environment, based on laws governing the handling and serving of food, are included in the paper.
Molecular Model of the Microvillar Cytoskeleton and Organization of the Brush Border

Boston University (Graduate Student Research Fellowship); National Institutes of Health (GM62886)
Counting Tables Using the Double-Saddlepoint Approximation

A double-saddlepoint approximation is proposed for the number of contingency tables with counts satisfying certain linear constraints. Computation of the approximation involves fitting a generalized linear model for geometric responses which can be accomplished almost instantaneously using the iterated weighted least squares algorithm. The approximation is far superior to other analytical approximations that have been proposed, and is shown to be highly accurate in a range of examples, including some for which analytical approximations were previously unavailable. A similar approximation is proposed for tables consisting of only zeros and ones based on a logistic regression model. A higher order adjustment to the basic double saddlepoint further improves the accuracy of the approximation in almost all cases. Computer code for implementing methods described in the article is provided as supplemental material.
Host Antibody Response to Viral Structural and Nonstructural Proteins after Hepatitis A Virus Infection

Subgenomic hepatitis A virus (HAV) RNA sequences were translated in vitro to produce proteins representing the structural (P1) and nonstructural (P2 and P3) domains of the viral polyprotein. These proteins were used as antigens to detect the presence of antibodies in sera from acute and convalescent humans and an experimentally infected chimpanzee. All infected individuals tested had antibodies that recognized uncleaved P1 proteins as well as nonstructural proteins. Antibodies in sera from infected individuals recognized conformation-dependent epitopes that were sensitive to SDS and heat treatment. Time-course studies of the experimentally infected chimpanzee showed that antibodies to the HAV proteins were detectable between 24 and 31 days after infection and persisted for greater than 6 months. Human sera remained positive for antibodies to both structural and nonstructural antigens for at least 2 1/2 years. The data suggest that HAV nonstructural proteins could be used as serologic markers for HAV diagnosis and for evaluating field trials of inactivated vaccines.
Improvements for the anatomical characterization of insect neurons in whole mount: the use of cyanine-derived fluorophores and laser scanning confocal microscopy

The optical sectioning capability of the laser scanning confocal microscope was utilized to image dye-filled neurons within whole-mounted insect ganglia. Specific pterothoracic interneurons, in the moth Manduca sexta, were retrogradely filled with Neurobiotin and subsequently visualized with a monoclonal anti-biotin conjugated with one of the following fluorophores: fluorescein, and the newly developed cyanines, Cy3.18 (Cy3) and Cy5.18 (Cy5). Overall, the Cy5 fluorophore was best suited for imaging insect neurons within ganglia. This new methodology allowed us to identify and characterize morphologically a collection of descending multisegmental interneurons with large or small diameter somata. A variety of larger molecular weight (10,000 daltons) tracers was also used to examine the possibility of nonselective filling of neurons with Neurobiotin, possibly through gap junctions. We also investigated the usefulness of Cy3 and Cy5 as fluorophores for transmitter immunostaining of neurons in whole mount. Neurons immunoreactive for serotonin and the neuropeptides, FMRFamide and SCPB, were imaged in the brain and the pterothoracic ganglion. The central projections of some of these immunoreactive neurons were imaged in their entirety.
Response to Letter Regarding Article, “Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease”

We thank Cortese and Valgimigli for their interest in our review article on antithrombotic management of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).1 Their letter underscores the paucity of high-quality, evidence-based data on optimal antithrombotic pharmacology for patients with stage 5 CKD in need for kidney replacement therapy (hemodialysis or transplantation), who frequently present with complex coronary anatomy requiring challenging interventions. Notably, this subset is the most likely to experience the coexistence of bleeding diathesis and thrombotic tendencies that are typically linked to more advanced stages of renal impairment.2 As far as antiplatelet drugs are concerned, explicit labeling for avoiding or applying caution in using aspirin, clopidogrel, prasugrel, ticagrelor, or glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors in patients with end-stage …
An Examination of the Use of Monographs in the Communication Journal Literature

Abstract This study examines references from three journals, Communication Monographs, Communication Research, and Journal of Communication, for the years 1985, 1995, and 2005 to investigate the role of the scholarly monograph in the discipline of communication. The authors found that both the percentage of references to monographs and the average number of monograph references per article dropped between 1995 and 2005. The authors looked at the distribution of monograph references by date and found that over fifty percent of the references are to monographs published in the previous fifteen years. In 2005 there was a noticeable drop in the number of references to monographs published in the previous 5 years. The ratio of commercial publishers to university presses in the referenced monographs has remained steady throughout the 1985, 1995, and 2005 articles. The most frequently referenced monographs in the 1995 and 2005 journal articles were published in the previous ten to twenty years. The authors concl...
Intuitive Choice of Cooperative Sharing Mechanisms for Joint Cost Savings: Some Empirical Results

Cooperative sharing arrangements are common phenomena in modern business. Joint ventures are used in a variety of industries, where participants are provided the advantages inter alia of risk sharing, pooling of economic and managerial resources, and synergy. An important issue in any cooperative venture is the mechanism for sharing the common rewards of participation. While some studies have looked at actual ventures, the issue has not been explored empirically when alternative sharing arrangements were also under consideration and the practical considerations of ‘fairness’, ‘reasonableness’, and ‘understandability’ were also present. This study examines sharing arrangements proposed by neutral observers under experimental conditions to a potential cooperative sharing arrangement where these practical considerations are important. The results indicate that the more complex literature solutions were approximated by some neutral observers intuitively, but the more pragmatic literature solutions were chosen by most observers.
Two-Stage Tuberculin Testing With Control Antigens in Patients Residing in Two Chronic Disease Hospitals

We studied the prevalence of tuberculin reactivity and anergy in 360 elderly patients residing in two municipal chronic disease hospitals. Eighty-five (26%) of the 323 patients tested had a positive reaction to a stage 1 tuberculin test and 12 (6%) of the 207 stage 1 tuberculin-negative patients exhibited a booster response to a stage 2 tuberculin test. Thirty percent of the same 207 patients had no response to an anergy panel of skin test antigens that included Candida, mumps, and trichophyton. Nonresponders to tuberculin and the anergy panel had significantly higher one-year mortality rates compared to responders (44 v 20%, P= 0.001). Tuberculin-positivity among the 770 employees working in these facilities was 43%; 12 (4%) had a booster response. A survey of 29 randomly selected long-term care facilities in the Boston area indicated that all had a policy for pre-employment screening of employees, but less than 50% had a policy for patients and only one institution used two-stage testing. Routine tuberculin testing is recommended for long-term care facilities and the two-stage method is preferable in institutions with adequate resources.
Experience with clinical skills based simulation and a process for improvement

Purpose Technical simulation is an established model in IR; however with the increasing emphasis of clinical IR, clinical simulation may also have an important role in fellowship training. We have developed and implemented a fellowship clinical simulation program for the past 3 years. Our purpose is to share lessons learned from an analysis of this simulation curriculum. Materials and Methods Beginning in 2010, we piloted two clinic-based objective structured clinical evaluation (OSCE) simulations. This was expanded in 2011 to 4 clinical OSCEs (2 clinic-assessment based; 2 clinic-communication based), and again in 2012 to two repetitions of the 4 OSCEs. As a part of a larger improvement process, retrospective evaluation was performed via survey with past fellows, with analysis conducted by a current fellow, IR faculty, and a PhD educator. Results Analysis showed that clinical scenarios contributed to IR education. Of particular importance was the feedback that the clinical-communication based OSCEs permitted learning in a controlled setting with critique from experienced faculty and experienced standardized patients (SP). Additionally, process and structural improvements were identified and integrated into OSCE cases to mirror clinical experiences. Conclusion Training fellows in clinical IR is crucial. Training in the clinic on interactions with patients in the IR department is important but can be inadequate. Our institution of a clinical simulation program has improved fellow education by enhancing their confidence and communication skills. The important lessons we have learned may benefit other programs considering a clinical simulation curriculum.
Tough, Strong Hydrogels with Elastomeric Fiber Reinforcement.

In biological hydrogels, the gel matrix is usually reinforced with micro- or nano-fibers and the resulting composite is tough and strong. In contrast, synthetic hydrogels are weak and brittle, although they are highly elastic. Other than in food, the main structural application of hydrogels is as soft contact lenses. The developing interest in soft tissue engineering has exposed a need for strong synthetic hydrogels to act as scaffolds for tissue growth. In this work a new class of hydrogels based on fiber reinforced hydrogel composites with a cartilage-like structure is designed. A 3D rapid prototyping technique was used to form crossed “logpiles” of elastic fibers that are then impregnated with an epoxy-based hydrogel in order to form a fiber-reinforced gel structure. The fibrous construct improves the strength, modulus and toughness of the hydrogel and also constrains the swelling. By altering the construct geometry and studying the effect on mechanical properties we will develop the understanding needed to design strong hydrogels for biomedical devices and soft machines.
Block Bootstraps for Time Series With Fixed Regressors

This article examines block bootstrap methods in linear regression models with weakly dependent error variables and nonstochastic regressors. Contrary to intuition, the tapered block bootstrap (TBB) with a smooth taper not only loses its superior bias properties but may also fail to be consistent in the regression problem. A similar problem, albeit at a smaller scale, is shown to exist for the moving and the circular block bootstrap (MBB and CBB, respectively). As a remedy, an additional block randomization step is introduced that balances out the effects of nonuniform regression weights, and restores the superiority of the (modified) TBB. The randomization step also improves the MBB or CBB. Interestingly, the stationary bootstrap (SB) automatically balances out regression weights through its probabilistic blocking mechanism, without requiring any modification, and enjoys a kind of robustness. Optimal block sizes are explicitly determined for block bootstrap variance estimators under regression. Finite sa...
Risk for suicidal ideation in the U.S. Air Force: An ecological perspective

Objective: Suicidal members of the U.S. military often fail to disclose their suicidal urges and behaviors. Military suicide prevention efforts may therefore be enhanced if they also target less stigmatized psychosocial factors that may decrease risk of suicidality. In keeping with Bronfenbrenner's (1977, 1994) model, this study simultaneously examined 4 ecological levels (i.e., individual, family, workplace, and community) of factors variously associated with increased or decreased risk for suicidal ideation. Method: Active-duty U.S. Air Force members (N = 52,780; 79.3% male; 79.2% non-Hispanic White; mean age = 31.78 years, SD = 7.38) completed the 2006 Community Assessment survey (a biennial, anonymous survey conducted at 82 U.S. Air Force bases worldwide), including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (2008) 5-item measure of past-year suicidality along with scales assessing an array of potential predictors. Results: The 1-year rate of suicidal ideation, defined as (a) more than rarely thinking about suicide or (b) ever seriously considering suicide, was approximately 4%. In multivariate models, for men and women, individual- (depressive symptoms and alcohol problems), family- (relationship satisfaction and intimate partner victimization), workplace- (hours worked), and community-level (social support) variables were retained in the final model. However, some sex differences in retained predictors were noted (e.g., men: dissatisfaction with the U.S. Air Force way of life; women: workplace relationship satisfaction and financial stressors). Conclusions: Addressing depressive symptoms and alcohol use, facilitating healthy relationship functioning, and increasing job satisfaction and social support may aid military suicide prevention efforts. These findings illustrate the importance of attending to multiple levels of potential influence when designing integrated suicide prevention and intervention programs. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved). Language: en
Kepone and Mirex: Effects on Bone Development and Swim Bladder Composition in Fathead Minnows

Abstract The biochemical effects of Kepone and mirex on bone development and swim bladder composition in fathead minnows Pimephales promelas were investigated in chronic toxicity studies. Continuous exposure of fathead minnows to Kepone (0.013–0.31 μg/liter) or mirex (2–34 μg/liter 0 led to the alteration of collagen and vitamin C metabolism within 30 days. Kepone concentrations of 0.17 and 0.31 μg/liter reduced collagen metabolism in the backbone after 120 days of exposure. Both mirex (⩾3 μg/liter) and Kepone (⩾0.31 μg/liter) decreased hydroxyproline concentration in the swim bladder. Acute exposure of fathead minnows to Kepone did not affect the chemical composition of vertebrae, even though scoliosis and vertebral damage were observed. Thus Kepone can induce vertebral damage in two ways: Acutely, by causing muscular contractions; and chronically, by altering vertebral collagen metabolism.
Magnetic and thermal properties of iron-doped lead telluride

We have studied the magnetic and thermal properties of iron-doped lead telluride. Magnetic susceptibility studies reveal that the iron ion in this compound assumes the divalent state and has a solubility limit of approximately 0.13%. The lattice thermal conductivity in iron-containing samples is suppressed over a wide temperature range. This behavior is attributed to scattering of phonons between spin-orbit-split magnetic energy levels with spacing that nearly coincides with the Debye temperature of lead telluride.
Effect of inorganic iodide on thyroglobulin hydrolysis in cultured thyroid glands.

The process of thyroglobulin hydrolysis in mouse thyroid glands labelled in vitro was studied from 2–24 h after they had been maintained in tissue culture. The culture medium was supplemented with mononitrotyrosine to prevent deiodination of iodotyrosines. Hydrolysis of labelled thyroglobulin, under these conditions, led to the release of labelled iodotyrosines and iodothyronines. The rate of formation of these compounds was measured as an index of thyroglobulin hydrolysis (TH). TH was markedly stimulated by TSH. Nal inhibited TSH stimulation of TH at a concentration of 10-5M or greater. Nal, at similar concentrations, also markedly diminished or abolished the incorporation of 131I into thyroidal proteins from radioiodide-supplemented media. The addition of various inhibitors of iodination effectively blocked the effect of iodide on TH. In experiments where radioimmunoassay was used to measure medium hormone concentrations, the release of unlabelled thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) induced by TSH ...
Z1 oscillations in yields of doubly and singly charged ions emitted from a germanium surface when bombarded by light ions

Abstract The interaction radii at which holes are created in the L-shell of light projectiles and in the M-shell of germanium during ion-surface atom collisions have been determined from the thresholds for doubly charged ion production. In contrast to the data with a silicon target, the interaction radius at which electron promotion occurs does not decrease with projectile atomic number (Z1) as it should if promotion occurs at a definite level crossing. In addition, the yields of doubly charged ions do not follow the Z1 dependence predicted by the Fano-Lichten-Barat electron promotion model.
Expression of ornithine decarboxylase in pancreatic development

We examined the relationship between ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and growth and differentiation in the developing rat exocrine pancreas. The ODC activity profile showed 2 distinct stages of increases with the first occurred at 14–16 days of age, and a second at 21–23 days of age. Growth parameters evaluated as gains in tissue mass, protein and DNA content in the pancreas indicated a low growth rate soon after birth with a transition to a much more rapid growth rate around the age of 20–21 days, a time corresponded to the second rise in ODC activity. Differentiation parameters evaluated as the accumulation of trypsinogen, amylase and lipase showed different temporal changes. While the rate of accumulation of all three enzymes was relatively low following birth, a rapid rate of accumulation of trypsinogen and amylase started around 15–16 days, a time corresponding to the first rise in ODC activity. Lipase, however, did not show an increase in its accumulation until around age 20 days. These results indicate that a rise in ODC activity is closely associated with growth and differentiation in the developing rat pancreas. To further examine this issue, the steady state levels of ODC mRNA in developing rats were evaluated by Northern blots probed with an ODC cDNA. The developmental profile of ODC mRNA showed a broad peak with a pronounced shoulder occurring at 10 days of age. A higher peak was reached around 20 days of age, then dropped precipitously to a very low level at the age of 24 days. This temporal changes in the level of ODC mRNA show good relationship to the changes in ODC activity suggesting that the control of ODC expression occurs at least in part at the pre-translational level.
Depression and Acculturation in Mexican-American Women:

Summary.-The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between depression and acculturacion in Mexican-American women. For this purpose, two samples of 67 women from social service agencies in Kansas City and 57 college women From South Texas were examined. Pemon product-moment correlations of scores on depression and acculturation suggested a nonsignificant association (- .02) for the South Texas sample, but a low negative significant relationship (- ,291 for the Kansas City group. Acculturation is a process in which one changes in adapting to the current culture. Hispanic women may be at greater risk for depression during the acculturation process because women are at greater risk for depression and women may be expected to maintain the home country's culture. Psychological impairment and acculturation can be viewed in at least two ways, a melting pot and a bicultural hypothesis. Those who retain their culture in the face of the new culture (melting pot) may experience more problems (Griffin, 1983; Szapocznik, Kurtines, & Fernandez, 1980). On the other hand, those who can adopt and identify with both cultures may experience a healthier adjustment (bicultural) (Szapocznik, et a/., 1980). Studies of psychopathology and acculturation among Hispanic people in the USA have not shown any clear relationship between the two variables. While Torres-Matrdo (1976) reported a significant relationship between depression and acculturation in Puerto Rican women, Szapocznik and Kurtines (1980) concluded that for a Cuban-American sample acculturation did not increase the likelihood of psychopathology. A separate study indicated no difference in acculturation between Mexican-American inpatients and outpatients (Fabrega & Wallace, 1968), and Griffin (1983) showed no significant relation between depression and acculturation. Other researchers have concluded that those who reject traditional Hispanic beliefs have more mental health problems (Maldonado-Sierra, Trent, & Fernandez-Marina, 1960; Rarnirez, 1968). Lang, Munoz, Bernal, and Sorenson (1982) concluded that among Hispanic immigrants a bicultural orientation was associated with healthy adjustment. Rogler, Cortes, and Malgady (1991), in a summary of research, found acculturation can be both detrimental and beneficial to the mental health of Hispanic people. Since cultural factors are relevant to the
Classical deterrence theory: A critical assessment

This essay summarizes and critically evaluates the conceptual underpinnings of Classical (or Rational) Deterrence Theory. The paradigm's origins are traced to Realist political thought and balance ...
Generation of an antibody with a designed specificity difference for protein C and activated protein C

Rabbit polyclonal antibodies to a synthetic peptide, NH2-Asp-Thr-Asn-Gln-Val-Asp-Gln-Lys-Asp-Gln-Leu-Asp-Phe-Arg-CONH2 (APep), have been produced. This sequence is identical to that contained in the tetradecapeptide released from bovine protein C (PC) as a result of its conversion to its activated form (APC), except that Phe13 replaced the normal Pro13, in order to discourage cross-reactivity of antibodies to the carboxylterminal portion of APep with PC. The antibody pool obtained reacted with PC and showed virtually no cross-reactivity toward either APC or several typical plasma proteins. This general approach should serve well as a means of production of antibodies with a designed specificity capable of distinguishing between forms of the same protein that arise by release of peptide material.
Interactive Multi-Media Nutrition Support Training

Abstract Two educational modules using interactive multimedia to assist undergraduate students in building knowledge and skills in enteral and parenteral nutrition support were developed and used as part of a clinical nutrition course at Cal Poly State University. The selection, calculation, administration, and monitoring of nutrition support systems is complex, has life and death consequences, and requires practice to achieve mastery. The interactive computer tutorials were designed as a supplement to lecture to enhance the learning of nutrition support and engage the student in the learning process in an active manner. Material in the tutorials is presented in a variety of formats including information frames, video clips, and illustrations, and interactive questions. Using the tutorials gives the student simulated experience without depending on the availability of a practice patient population and helps students gain skills and confidence before being confronted with an actual patient. Students can work through the modules independently, at their own pace, and according to their preferred mental information acquisition (linear or nonlinear). Following each module, an interactive case study is presented so that the student is required to apply information learned and further develop skills. The tutorials can be accessed by dietitians and dietetic students throughout the world via the world wide web
The application of the genetic algorithm to the minimization of potential energy functions

We adapted the genetic algorithm to minimize the AMBER potential energy function. We describe specific recombination and mutation operators for this task. Next we use our algorithm to locate low energy conformation of three polypeptides (AGAGAGAGA, A9, and [Met]-enkephalin) which are probably the global minimum conformations. Our potential energy minima are −94.71, −98.50, and −48.94 kcal/mol respectively. Next, we applied our algorithm to the 46 amino acid protein crambin and located a non-native conformation which had an AMBER potential energy ∼150 kcal/mol lower than the native conformation. This is not necessarily the global minimum conformation, but it does illustrate problems with the AMBER potential energy function. We believe this occurred because the AMBER potential energy function does not account for hydration.
Naive forecasting: The fiasco of coal gasification☆

Abstract The decision by the U.S. government to subsidize the development of coal gasification was based on a naive forecast that neglected the influence of price on both conventional sources of supply and consumer demand. Even before substantial construction costs were incurred on the Great Plains plant, a surplus of natural gas had developed. The political process, however, did not include the sort of critical review that often accompanies the financing decision in the private sector and that would surely have prevented this error.
The C-terminal half of UvrC protein is sufficient to reconstitute (A)BC excinuclease.

Abstract The UvrC protein is one of three subunits of the Escherichia coli repair enzyme (A)BC excinuclease. This subunit is thought to have at least one of the active sites for nucleophilic attack on the phosphodiester bonds of damaged DNA. To localize the active site, mutant UvrC proteins were constructed by linker-scanning and deletion mutagenesis. In vivo studies revealed that the C-terminal 314 amino acids of the 610-amino acid UvrC protein were sufficient to confer UV resistance to cells lacking the uvrC gene. The portion of the uvrC gene encoding the C-terminal half of the protein was fused to the 3' end of the E. coli malE gene (which encodes maltose binding protein), and the fusion protein MBP-C314C was purified and characterized. The fusion protein, in combination with UvrA and UvrB subunits, reconstituted the excinuclease activity that incised the eighth phosphodiester bond 5' and the fourth phosphodiester bond 3' to a psoralen-thymine adduct. These results suggest that the C-terminal 314 amino acids of UvrC constitute a functional domain capable of interacting with the UvrB-damaged DNA complex and of inducing the two phosphodiester bond incisions characteristic of (A)BC excinuclease.
The impact of wait list body mass index changes on the outcome after liver transplantation.

Obesity is associated with poor health outcomes in the general population, but the evidence surrounding the effect of body mass index (BMI) on postliver transplantation survival is contradictory. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of wait list BMI and BMI changes on the outcomes after liver transplantation. Using the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, we compared survival among different BMI categories and examined the impact of wait list BMI changes on post-transplantation mortality for patients undergoing liver transplantation. Cox proportional hazards multivariate regression was carried out to adjust for confounding factors. Among 38 194 recipients, underweight patients had a poorer survival compared with normal weight (HR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.13-1.49). Conversely, overweight and mildly obese men experienced better survival rates compared with their lean counterparts (HR = 0.9, 95% CI: 0.84-0.96, and HR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.79-0.93 respectively). Female patients gaining weight over 18.5 kg/m(2) while on the wait list showed improving outcomes (HR = 0.46, (95% CI: 0.28-0.76)) compared with those remaining underweight. This study supports the harmful impact of underweight on postliver transplant survival, and highlights the need for a specific monitoring and management of candidates with BMIs close to 18.5 kg/m(2) . Obesity does not constitute an absolute contraindication to liver transplantation.
3-Aminopropyl-bonded-phase silica, thin-layer chromatographic plates: Their preparation, and application to sugar resolution

Commercially available, precoated plates of silica gel have been derivatized by reaction with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (3-APTS). The aminopropyl-bonded-phase plates prepared from Adsorbosil-Plus-1, soft-layer prekotes (Alltech Associates, Inc.2) provided optimal resolution of a variety of closely related sugars. Plates were immersed in a 1.0% solution of 3-APTS in hexane for 15 min, washed with hexane, and then dried. The resulting, bonded-phase silica contained 9.7% of 3-aminopropyl groups. Further derivatization could be obtained, but optimal resolution of sugars occurred at this level of aminopropyl substitution. Acetonitrile—water mixtures were used as mobile phases; normal phase chromatography resulted, because increasing the proportion of water resulted in increased mobility of the sugars. Closely related mono-, di-, and tri-saccharides have been resolved more effectively than in such traditional approaches as t.l.c. on plates of cellulose or underivatized silica. Also, significantly less time is required for irrigation of the plates than is normally encountered in the t.l.c. of sugars. “Anomalous” behavior was observed for aldotetroses, aldopentoses, and some aldohexoses and deoxy sugars; these remain at the origin. Two sugars of this series, xylose and rhamnose, have been shown to interact covalently with the amino groups on the derivatized plates.
Health Dynamics and the Evolution of Health Inequality over the Life Course: The Importance of Neighborhood and Family Background

This paper investigates the extent and ways in which childhood family and neighborhood quality influence later-life health outcomes. The study analyzes the health trajectories of children born between 1950 and 1970 followed through 2005. Data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) spanning four decades are linked with information on neighborhood attributes and school quality resources that prevailed at the time these children were growing up.There are several key findings. First, estimates of sibling and child neighbor correlations in health are used to bound the proportion of inequality in health status in childhood through mid-life that are attributable to childhood family and neighborhood quality. Estimates based on four-level hierarchical random effects models (neighborhoods, families, individuals, over time) consistently show a significant scope for both childhood family and neighborhood background (including school quality). The results imply substantial persistence in health status across generations that are linked in part to low intergenerational economic mobility. Sibling correlations are large throughout at least the first 50 years of life: roughly three-fifths of adult health disparities may be attributable to family and neighborhood background. Childhood neighbor correlations in adult health are also substantial (net of the similarity arising from similar family characteristics), suggesting that disparities in neighborhood background account for more than one-third of the variation in health status in mid life.Second, exposure to concentrated neighborhood poverty during childhood has significant deleterious impacts on adult health. The results reveal that even a large amount of selection on unobservable factors does not eliminate the significant effect of child neighborhood poverty on health status later in life. Thus, racial differences in adult health can be accounted for by childhood family, neighborhood, and school quality factors, while contemporaneous economic factors account for relatively little of this gap.
A Comparison of Regulatory and Voluntary Release of Muskellunge and Walleyes in Northern Wisconsin

Abstract Voluntary release of fish can play an important role in the management of recreational fisheries. I investigated how the release rate, defined as the proportion of all fish caught that are released, may be affected by minimum length regulations and changes in angler behavior over time for walleye Stizostedion vitreum and muskellunge Esox masquinongy fisheries in northern Wisconsin. Release rates estimated from creel surveys were compared among years over a 10-year period and between different minimum length regulations. The release rate for walleyes varied significantly between different minimum length regulations but did not vary among years. The muskellunge release rate increased significantly over time but did not vary between different minimum length regulations. The magnitude of the difference in release rate between the two substantially different length regulations in the walleye fishery (9.0%) was similar to the increase in the release rate over time in the muskellunge fishery (7.5%). The...
Membrane apheresis technology: historical perspective and new trends toward bioincompatible systems.

: During the past 25 years, membrane apheresis technology has been well developed through the use of biocompatible devices and immunomodulation. Now, however, we must move into a new era reconsidering the concepts of apheresis technology and considering the urgent need to develop a bioincompatible apheresis system. In the past, our aim in this field was to develop the best blood compatible system possible. With these systems, best efforts were made to reduce procedurally induced immunomodulation effects. However, it is these authors' opinion that procedurally induced immunomodulation effects should be augmented rather than reduced by incorporating such a bioincompatible apheresis system. Augmented immunoactivation and immunosuppression introduced by such systems should add therapeutic effects to the apheresis procedures. Therefore, we anticipate that the current marginally effective diseases may benefit from this strategic change in apheresis procedures.