cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
What constitutes a laboratory quality monitoring program

A program of quality assurance for the laboratory is described that addresses both process and outcome validation. It begins by an analyses of the workload processing sequence, i.e., ordering, collecting, trans porting, analyzing specimens, reporting tests results in a timely manner, and reduction of instrument, staff, and system-related errors in the generation of laboratory information. The observable medical staff requirements for effective utilization of the labora tory is the basis for defining outcome measures.
Development of the heteronormative attitudes and beliefs scale

Heteronormativity has been defined as the enforced compliance with culturally determined heterosexual roles and assumptions about heterosexuality as ‘natural’ or ‘normal’. Cross-disciplinary theoretical literature suggests that heteronormativity may be linked to a range of attitudes, social phenomena and outcomes and that it may be a fundamental prerequisite for institutional and interpersonal manifestations of heterosexism. Yet, this construct is in need of empirical elaboration. Operationalising heteronormativity along two dimensions (essential, binary beliefs about sex and gender and normative behavioural attitudes), this article describes initial development of the Heteronormative Attitudes and Beliefs Scale. Across three studies, this newly developed measure has demonstrated an adequately supported two-factor model, expected group differences (e.g., higher scores among men vs. women and among heterosexual vs. sexual minority participants) and significant correlations with relevant personality and att...
Inhibition of pigment migration in tail fin melanophores of Xenopus tadpoles in oxygen‐free media

The dispersion of melanosomes in the darkness-induced darkening of Xenopus tailfin melanophores does not occur in an oxygen-free medium. When such tails are restored to lighted conditions in the presence of oxygen, dispersion takes place as an “after effect” indicating that light reception and melanosome dispersion are two separate components of the tail-darkening reaction. Aggregation of tailfin melanosomes is also inhibited by the absence of oxygen.
Comparison of the entropy-driven polymerization reactions of E66 and vulgare tobacco mosaic virus proteins.

The effects of temperature (T), ionic strength (mu), and pH on the polymerization of the coat protein of the E66 strain of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) from the 4 S form (A), a trimer of the polypeptide chain, to the 20 S form (D) were investigated by the method of sedimentation velocity. Interpretations of thermodynamic parameters were based on only those data obtained in experiments for which reversibility could be demonstrated both by lowering temperature and by lowering concentration. E66 protein differed from vulgare TMV in that, in position 140, lysine replaced asparagine. Thus, E66 protein should be less hydrophobic than vulgare protein and K's, the salting-out constant, should be less. The charge on unpolymerized E66 protein was -3 proton units per polypeptide chain, compared to -4 for vulgare protein. The electrical work contribution, delta W*el, for E66 protein should be (-3/-4)2, or 0.5625 that for vulgare. The results were that delta W*el at pH 6.7, 15 degrees C, and mu = 0.1 was 0.700 kcal/mol for E66 protein compared to 1.22 for vulgare. The experimental ratio was 0.574; K's = 2.16 for E66 compared to 4.93 for vulgare. Hydrogen ions (1.5) were bound per A unit, or 0.5 per polypeptide chain, in the formation of D from A. delta H*, the enthalpy change per mole of A, was 33 kcal at pH 6.7 and 36 at pH 6.9, compared to 30 at both pH values for vulgare protein. delta S*, the entropy change per mole of A, was +132.1 e.u. for E66 compared to 127.4 for vulgare. Entropy-driven processes are found in dynamic biological situations. Ready reversibility at biological temperatures is a requirement, yet the polymer structures must be strong and well ordered. This is achieved through a large number of weak bonds between subunits, combined with ready reversibility under slightly changed conditions. The significant role of water is to facilitate depolymerization by binding to subunits.
Rectification Properties of Low Aspect Ratio TEM Drilled Nanopores

Nanopores have garnered much scientific interest due for their applications in modeling biological systems and as use for biosensors. Their size creates a system in which transported ions must interact with the pore walls. These nanoscale effects have led to the devolvement of ion controlling devices such as diodes and transistors with a broad range of applications. Past studies of ionic diodes have mainly focused on lateral dimension dependencies on rectification while keeping the length in the micrometer range. The ability to shorten nanopore diodes while retaining their rectification abilities has important applications to the production of ionic circuits, artificial cells, and lab-on-a-chip systems. We look at the rectification abilities of 30 nm long nanopores drilled by the transmission electron microscope (TEM) into a Silicon Nitride membrane between ±1V at 10 mM, 100 mM, and 1 M KCl. We perform current-voltage (I-V) measurements on single nanopores in 3 states: as-prepared by TEM, one side evaporated with 8 nm thick layer of gold, and after modifying the gold layer with thiols. In the two modified states, the pores show rectification at all concentrations. The rectification direction indicates that the pores rectify as if conical rather than cylindrical indicating the double conical nature of TEM drilled nanopores plays a significant role at the nanometer scale. Additionally, with only gold, the rectification and current magnitudes are enhanced due to nonlinear kinetic flow near one of the pore openings. The recorded current-voltage curves exhibit three regimes with ohmic, limiting and overlimiting currents, previously observed in nanofluidic large-aspect ratio channels. Rectification in nanometer long pores would be of significant importance to the future development and miniaturization of ionic nanoscale systems.
Two Structures Toward Understanding Evolution from Surfactant-Polyoxometalate Lamellae to Surfactant-Encapsulated Polyoxometalates

Surfactant-POM (polyoxometalate) phases are fascinating in both their self-assembly behavior and their utility as catalysts, probes, and photochromic, electrochromic, and magnetic devices. Well-ordered lamellar phases are formed when the surfactant:POM ratio is 4:1 or 2:1, and these have been described in great detail from single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. However, the surfactant-encapsulated clusters (SECs) with much larger surfactant:POM ratios do not form single-crystals readily. Thus less is known about their structural detail, and the evolution from the well-ordered lamellar phases to the SECs with increasing surfactant:POM ratio has not been detailed. We present here two structures that have resulted from an investigation of understanding the evolution of the surfactant-POM lamellar phase as the surfactant:POM ratio increases. [H2SiMo12O40][CH3CN]2[C16H33N(CH3)3]4 (monoclinic #4, P21 a = 12.636(2) A, b = 20.577(4) A, c = 22.364(4) A, β = 93.394(4)°) holds true to the preference of 4:1 surfac...
Sensitivity of atmospheric dispersion simulations by HYSPLIT to the meteorological predictions from a meso-scale model

Mesoscale transport and dispersion of air pollutants from a few major point sources in the Mississippi Gulf coastal region is calculated using a coupled modeling system consisting of the atmospheric dynamical model WRF and the lagrangian particle model HYSPLIT. The sensitivity of the dispersion model results to the meteorological fields is studied by conducting an ensemble of simulations using the WRF model for the same dispersion case. Several parameterization schemes for the physical processes of boundary layer turbulence and land surface temperature/moisture prediction in WRF are used in various combinations to produce different meteorological members which are then used for dispersion simulation. The uncertainty in the simulated concentration probabilities to the meteorological model configurations and the ensemble mean are presented. The parameters used for determining the uncertainties include the wind fields, temperature, area of concentration and the levels of concentration. The results indicate that dispersion model results are influenced by the choices made in respect of the planetary boundary layer and land surface schemes in the mesoscale model to produce the meteorological forecast thereby leading to certain amount of uncertainty in the resultant concentrations. Results show that the specific choices made about the atmospheric model configuration can significantly after the simulated concentrations.
Targeted disruption of Col11a2 produces a mild cartilage phenotype in transgenic mice: comparison with the human disorder otospondylomegaepiphyseal dysplasia (OSMED).

Transgenic mice were prepared by homologous recombination with a Col11a2 targeting gene in which an inverted neomycin-resistant gene was inserted between restriction sites in exons 27 and 28. The targeted allele was transcribed in shortened mRNAs, which could be detected by Northern blotting. However, translation of the full-length Col11a2 chain was unable to occur because of the presence of premature termination codons within the inverted neomycin-resistant gene. Analysis of pepsin-resistant collagen chains from rib cartilage of homozygous mice demonstrated the lack of synthesis of intact alpha2(XI) chains. However, pepsin-resistant collagen chains of either alpha1(XI) or alpha1(V) were still detected on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Therefore, alpha2(XI) chains are not essential for the assembly of some molecular forms of triple-helical type V/XI collagen. The phenotype was milder than in the cho/cho mouse in which, as the result of mutation, translation of the full-length alpha1(XI) chain fails to occur and the mice die at birth (Li et al., 1995). Homozygous mice without expression of an alpha2(XI) chain had a smaller body size, receding snouts, and deafness. Nasal bones in the homozygous transgenic mice were specifically shorter and dimpled on their external surfaces. Chondrocytes in growth plates of all long bones were markedly disorganized and failed to align in columns. Analysis of growth plates from transgenic mice by in situ hybridization showed expression of alpha1(II) and alpha1(XI) but not of alpha1(I) or alpha1(V) which, in contrast, were expressed in the developing bone and in the bone collar. Expression of alpha1(X) specifically in the hypertrophic cartilage was observed in normal and transgenic mice. No obvious osteoarthritis was observed throughout the life of homozygous mice up to 1 year of age, although minor morphologic anomalies in the articular cartilages were discernible. The mild phenotype is consistent with similar mutations in the COL11A2 gene seen in patients with nonocular Stickler syndrome and some patients with otospondylomegaepiphyseal dysplasia (OSMED), as well as in patients with a nonsyndromic form of deafness called DFNA13.
Representations and misrepresentations: Is there life after positivism?

Bailey, F. G. The Prevalence of Deceit. Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 1991. xxii + 143pp. including references and index. $24.95 cloth, $7.95 paper. Manganaro, Marc, ed. Modernist Anthropology: from Fieldwork to Text. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1990. xii + 337 pp. including bibliography and index. $45.00 cloth, $14.95 paper. Ohnuki‐Tierney, Emiko, ed. Culture Through Time: Anthropological Approaches. Stanford: Stanford University Press, 1990. xi + 330 pp. including references and index. $42.50 cloth, $12.95 paper.
The unimolecular reaction of (CH3)3CNO following n−π* excitation with a tunable dye laser

The predissociation of (CH3)3CNO following the 570–710 nm laser excitation of the n‐π* transition is reported. The small fluorescence quantum yield and its short lifetime (<20 ns) indicate efficient radiationless processes prior to dissociation. NO is the major dissociation product and its concentration was monitored in real time by using the two‐photon laser excited fluorescence technique. The NO yield as a function of wavelength followed very closely the absorption contours of (CH3)3CNO. The NO production rate was ≳108 s−1 at all wavelengths studied and this rate is too fast to be consistent with a mechanism involving a radiationless transition to the ground electronic state followed by energy randomization and dissociation. Alternative predissociation mechanisms are considered.
CONSTRUCTING GENDER: An Exploration of Afro-American Men's Conceptualization of Manhood

This article explores the meanings of manhood as articulated by Afro-American men (N = 32). Conceptualization and Q-sort methods are used to examine (1) men's construction of manhood and (2) men's ratings of the importance of selected attributes to being a man. Manhood emerged as a multidimensional construct with four major domains (self-determinism and accountability, family, pride, and spirituality and humanism) and 15 distinct clusters of ideas. The cluster of attributes rated as most important to being a man paralleled the conceptualization of manhood derived from the open-ended interviews for both professional and nonprofessional men. Men's ratings of attributes in the areas of ownership, manliness, spiritual and religious, and power varied by occupational status.
Long-term ventilation: charting a pathway home

Children with chronic respiratory insufficiency who require assisted ventilation are a very complex and vulnerable cohort within the growing spectrum of children with physical and developmental disabilities. Beginning in the late 1970s, technological innovation and a growing appreciation of the broader social contributions of children and adults with disabilities, facilitated the transition of these patients from hospital-based or long-term care to the home setting.1 Integrated with their families and communities, these children have not only survived but also experienced better developmental outcomes. McDougall and colleagues2 describe the expansion of a single institution programme providing long-term mechanical ventilation for children throughout the Canadian province of British Columbia. Over a 15-year period, they documented a 10-fold increase in enrolment. I applaud the authors and their staff who worked with these children and their families. The upward trend in mechanical support is indicated by the several …
Downregulation of Muc1 in MMTV-c-Neu tumors

MUC1 is a tumor antigen, overexpressed in approximately 90% of human breast cancers. In normal glandular epithelia, MUC1 is expressed at the apical surface; however, in carcinomas an aberrantly glycosylated form of MUC1 is upregulated and expressed around the entire surface of the cell. Previously, we have shown that a lack of Muc1 significantly delays tumor progression and/or onset in MMTV-PyV-mT and MMTV-Wnt-1 transgenic mice. Here we show that, unlike the models mentioned above, a loss of Muc1 in MMTV-c-Neu mice (MMTV-c-Neu/Muc1(-/-)) altered neither mammary tumor onset nor progression. Moreover, characterization of MMTV-c-Neu/Muc1(+/+) tumors revealed that Muc1 expression was repressed at the level of transcription. In contrast, normal mammary gland tissue adjacent to tumor tissue expressed Muc1 and pregnant mammary glands from c-Neu transgenic animals expressed high levels of Muc1. We found that transient transfection of activated ErbB2 into human embryonic kidney 293/MUC1 cells resulted in the repression of MUC1 expression. Further, transient transfection of activated ErbB2 resulted in the inhibition of Muc1 transcriptional activation in luciferase reporter assays. These data suggest that the activation of ErbB2, which only occurs in c-Neu tumors, selectively inhibits Muc1 expression.
Reference Interferometer Using a Semiconductor Laser/LED Reference Source in a Cryogenic Fourier-Transform Spectrometer

A combination of a single mode AlGaAs laser diode and broadband LED was used in a Michelson interferometer to provide reference signals in a Fourier transform spectrometer, the Composite Infrared Spectrometer, on the Cassini mission to Saturn. The narrowband light from the laser produced continuous fringes throughout the travel of the interferometer, which were used to control the velocity of the scan mechanism and to trigger data sampling. The broadband light from the LED produced a burst of fringes at zero path difference, which was used as a fixed position reference. The system, including the sources, the interferometer, and the detectors, was designed to work both at room temperature and instrument operating temperature of 170 Kelvin. One major challenge that was overcome was preservation, from room temperature to 170 K, of alignment sufficient for high modulation of fringes from the broadband source. Another was the shift of the source spectra about 30 nm toward shorter wavelengths upon cooldown.
Population Genetics of a Recent Transcontinental Colonization of South America by Breeding Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica)

ABSTRACT. The natural range extension and colonization of a new continent by a bird species is rare, and even more rarely is it observed and documented. In 1980, six pairs of Barn Swallows were found breeding in Argentina within the species' historical wintering range, and this South American population has since grown to thousands of pairs. We explored the genetic context and consequences of this natural trans-hemispheric colonization event via comparisons among the South American population and two North American populations. We tested for evidence of a genetic founder event by assessing allelic diversity at eight microsatellite loci and haplotype diversity of mitochondrial ND2 sequences. Contrary to our expectations, the recently established South American breeding population showed no evidence of a founder effect, with no difference in heterozygosity, allelic diversity, haplotype diversity, or population differentiation in comparison to the large North American populations. The genetic similarity of t...
Older and more recent evidence on racial discrimination in sentencing

Examination of previous studies of racial discrimination in sentencing indicates more widespread evidence of discrimination than allowed in three separate reviews by M. J. Hindelang [(1969).J. Crim. Law Criminal. Police Sci. 60: 306–313], J. Hagan [(1975). InThe Aldine Crime and Justice Annual, Aldine, Chicago], and G. Kleck [(1981).Am. Social. Rev. 46: 783-805]. It is not the case, as these reviewers suggest, that racial discrimination is a thing of the past, shown almost exclusively for capital offences from the American South, and often supported only because relevant legal variables were not controlled. In addition, analysis of recent (1977) data from a non-Southern state (Pennsylvania) covering noncapital offenses and including recommended controls shows that evidence of racial disparity in sentencing is revealed more clearly when separate analyses are conducted within levels of urbanization. The labeling perspective and conflict theory guide our interpretation.
Crystal structure of the APOBEC3G catalytic domain reveals potential oligomerization interfaces

APOBEC3G is a DNA cytidine deaminase that has antiviral activity against HIV-1 and other pathogenic viruses. In this study the crystal structure of the catalytically active C-terminal domain was determined to 2.25 A. This structure corroborates features previously observed in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies, a bulge in the second beta strand and a lengthening of the second alpha helix. Oligomerization is postulated to be critical for the function of APOBEC3G. In this structure, four extensive intermolecular interfaces are observed, suggesting potential models for APOBEC3G oligomerization. The structural and functional significance of these interfaces was probed by solution NMR and disruptive variants were designed and tested for DNA deaminase and anti-HIV activities. The variant designed to disrupt the most extensive interface lost both activities. NMR solution data provides evidence that another interface, which coordinates a novel zinc site, also exists. Thus, the observed crystallographic interfaces of APOBEC3G may be important for both oligomerization and function.
Gangliosides have a bimodal effect on DNA synthesis in U‐1242 MG human glioma cells

GM1, GD1a, and GT1b inhibit both PDGF-stimulated and serum-stimulated DNA synthesis in Swiss 3T3 cells and the human glioma cell line U-1242 MG in a dose-dependent manner. The ganglioside inhibitory effect is counteracted in a dose-responsive fashion by serum such that ganglioside-induced inhibition is essentially abolished in 10% serum. Because of the potentially important role that gangliosides play in growth regulation of human gliomas, this phenomenon was studied in detail using U-1242 MG cells. Stimulation of DNA synthesis by low doses of serum in U-1242 MG cells is inhibited in a dose-responsive fashion by ganglioside GM1. However, serum itself counteracts the inhibitory effect of ganglioside in a dose responsive way. Kinetic analyses demonstrate that GM-1 competes with some components of serum for sites on U-1242 MG cells (Kb of GM1 =12.5 μM). On the other hand, GM1, GD1a, and GT1b stimulate DNA synthesis in quiescent U-1242 MG cells in both sparse and confluent conditions, indicating that ganglioside-stimulated DNA synthesis is dependent on the phase of cellular growth rather than cellular density. This growth stimulatory effect of gangliosides is more potent on quiescent, confluent cells than quiescent, sparse cells. These results demonstrate that exogenously added gangliosides can have opposite (bimodal) effects on progression of human glioma cells through the cell cycle depending upon the growth phase of the cells. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Transport phenomena and crystal growth of the GeSe-Xenon system for different gravitational conditions

Abstract Previous chemical vapor transport experiments of the GeSe-GeI 4 system performed under reduced gravity conditions /1/ yielded crystals of considerably improved surface and bulk morphology. In addition, the mass transport rates observed in microgravity environment were significantly greater than predicted. A quantitative thermodynamic analysis of the solid-gas phase reactions of the GeSe-GeI 4 system revealed the multi-component, multi-reaction nature of the vapor phase /2/. Continued transport studies on ground of the GeSe-GeI 4 system in the presence of inert gases provided experimental evidence for the existence of a boundary layer /2/ and its thickness dependence on GeI 4 pressure in closed tube systems. Systematic transport rate measurements for different orientations of the density gradient relative to the gravity vector demonstrated the effects of ampoule inclination on mass flux /3/. Based on a computational model for simultaneous chemical vapor transport, sublimation, and Stefan flow /3/, the excellent agreement of predicted with ground-based experimental mass transport rates over wide pressure ranges /3/ confirmed the validity of the model and the discrepancy between observed and expected transport rates of the GeSe-GeI 4 system in microgravity.
CD4–CD8 differentiation in the thymus: connecting circuits and building memories

The proper choice of the CD4-helper or CD8-cytotoxic lineages by developing T cells is crucial for the generation of an antigen-responsive and functionally fit T cell repertoire. Here we present a brief overview of the transcriptional control of this process, with emphasis on two issues. The study of Cd4 expression, that had previously generated important paradigms for transcriptional regulation in eukaryotic cells, now brings new twists to the concept of ‘epigenetic memory’. And connections are emerging between transcriptional regulators critical for commitment to either lineage. The present review attempts to integrate these findings and discusses the still elusive mechanisms that match CD4–CD8 lineage differentiation to MHC specificity.
Self-enacting response sequences and reinforcement: conjecture.

In large measure the difficulties of the principal learning theories may stem from the use of discrete, overt, responses as the units of learned behavior. Internally chained sequences of implicit responses are suggested as alternative units. The latter are assumed to result in overt behavior by a process of neurological summation. It is then proposed that the principle governing reinforcement of such sequences is that the elicitation of any initial segment of a successful sequence increases the probability that remaining elements of the sequence will be elicited. The principle is applied to habituation, classical conditioning, instrumental learning, and avoidance. Finally, points of similarity and contrast with the major theories of learning are discussed, and several general criteria for a behavior theory are listed which seem to favor a formulation of the kind proposed.
Thermodynamic Properties of ELP-Labelled Doxorubicin, a Drug Delivery System

Macromolecular delivery by hyperthermia and thermal targeting of SynB1-Cys ELP-bound Doxorubicin (Dox) to solid tumors is investigated in animal studies as a means of circumventing multidrug resistance in cancer cells. The structural changes and hydrodynamic properties of ELP below and above its Transition Temperature TT make this construct a useful carrier for the delivery of Dox. At low temperature, the ELPs are soluble and consist of both random coils and β-turn structures. With increasing temperature ELPs undergo weak association, forming repeating type II β-turns and β-spirals. Above the TT, they undergo a cooperative phase transition involving µm size aggregates stabilized by desolvation. Sedimentation velocity (SV) experiments have shown that ELP is a nonideal monomer at low temperature, but with increase in temperature undergoes weak isodesmic self-association. Adding Cell Penetrating Peptides (SynB1) at the N-terminal domain of the ELP decreases its solubility and stabilizes the aggregated state. This study asks how the addition of Dox to SynB1-Cys ELP affects its biophysical and hydrodynamic behavior at physiological conditions, and how these changes influence its potential for aggregation and drug delivery. The preliminary SV results presented here show an increase in self-association of SynB1-Cys ELP-Dox at 20°C relative to the unlabeled construct. The goal of these experiments is to investigate the impact of different labeling efficiencies (10-90%) on self-association and TT. Preliminary turbidity results on unlabeled SynB1-Cys ELP in PBS show that TT decreases linearly with increase in the logarithm of the ELP concentration as solutions are heated from 20 to 60°C. The process is reversible as solutions are cooled to 20°C. The degree of conformational change associated with the TT will also be monitored using CD and FT-IR experiments.
Ocean-atmosphere interaction in high southern latitudes

This paper is a brief review of air--sea interaction processes in high southern latitudes which may be important for climate modeling. The southern hemisphere is of particular interest here because of the relatively larger amount of ocean in higher latitudes, and because of the relatively few studies that have been made of processes there. For purposes of the conference, the paper is limited to a discussion of illustrative examples of work that has been done in each of the subject areas; discussion of processes in the northern high latitudes will be used for comparative processes only. Ocean--ice--atmosphere processes, important in high latitudes, have been discussed elsewhere in the conference. A recent general review of the role of oceans in southern hemisphere climate has been given by Hamon and Godfrey (1978).
Interactive outlining: an improved approach using active contours

The purpose of our work is to outline objects on images in an interactive environment. We use an improved method based on energy minimizing active contours or `snakes.' Kass et al., proposed a variational technique; Amini used dynamic programming; and Williams and Shah introduced a fast, greedy algorithm. We combine the advantages of the latter two methods in a two-stage algorithm. The first stage is a greedy procedure that provides fast initial convergence. It is enhanced with a cost term that extends over a large number of points to avoid oscillations. The second stage, when accuracy becomes important, uses dynamic programming. This step is accelerated by the use of alternating search neighborhoods and by dropping stable points from the iterations. We have also added several features for user interaction. First, the user can define points of high confidence. Mathematically, this results in an extra cost term and, in that way, the robustness in difficult areas (e.g., noisy edges, sharp corners) is improved. We also give the user the possibility of incremental contour tracking, thus providing feedback on the refinement process. The algorithm has been tested on numerous photographic clip art images and extensive tests on medical images are in progress.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Furthering the Investigation into the Effects of Arms Buildups

Diehl and Crescenzi's discussion of my earlier article in the Journal of Peace Research and their general comments on the connections between arms races and war is a generally well-reasoned and valuable contribution. Although a number of the issues they discuss have been mentioned elsewhere, these references have usually been indirect or as passing comments in a larger work rather than in an explicit attempt to engage the researcher on this matter. My brief response will serve to reiterate some of their points, while addressing those few concerns I have about their suggestions for future research.
Current-Use Pesticides and Organochlorine Compounds in Precipitation and Lake Sediment from Two High-Elevation National Parks in the Western United States

Current-use pesticides (CUPs) and banned organochlorine compounds (OCCs) were measured in precipitation (snowpack and rain) and lake sediments from two national parks in the Western United States to determine their occurrence and distribution in high-elevation environments. CUPs frequently detected in snow were endosulfan, dacthal, and chlorothalonil in concentrations ranging from 0.07 to 2.4 ng/L. Of the OCCs, chlordane, hexachlorobenzene, and two polychlorinated biphenyl congeners were detected in only one snow sample each. Pesticides most frequently detected in rain were atrazine, carbaryl, and dacthal in concentrations from 3.0 to 95 ng/L. Estimated annual deposition rates in one of the parks were 8.4 μg/m2 for atrazine, 9.9 μg/m2 for carbaryl, and 2.6 μg/m2 for dacthal, of which >85% occurred during summer. p,p’-DDE and p,p’-DDD were the most frequently detected OCCs in surface sediments from lakes. However, concentrations were low (0.12 to 4.7 μg/kg) and below levels at which harmful effects for benthic organisms are likely to be observed. DDD and DDE concentrations in an age-dated sediment core suggest that atmospheric deposition of DDT and its degradates, and possibly other banned OCCs, to high-elevation areas have been decreasing since the 1970s. Dacthal and endosulfan sulfate were present in low concentrations (0.11 to 1.2 μg/kg) and were the only CUPs detected in surface sediments. Both pesticides were frequently detected in snow, confirming that some CUPs entering high-elevation aquatic environments through atmospheric deposition are accumulating in lake sediments and potentially in aquatic biota as well.
Do nurse practitioners make a difference in provision of health counseling in hospital outpatient departments

Purpose This study examined whether nurse practitioners (NPs) had any impact on the type and amount of health counseling provided during patient visits to hospital outpatient departments (OPDs). Data sources This is a secondary data analysis of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from 1997 to 2000. Only patient visits to hospital OPDs were included. Rates of health counseling provided at patient visits involving an NP were compared with those without an NP. Adjusted odds ratio was reported separately for each type of health counseling provided at patient visits for nonillness care, for chronic problems, and for acute problems. Conclusions Health counseling for diet, exercise, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevention, tobacco use, and injury prevention are more likely to be provided at nonillness care visits involving an NP than at those not involving an NP. The presence of an NP is associated not only with higher rates of counseling for diet, exercise, and tobacco use provided at patient visits for chronic problems but also with higher rates of counseling for diet and HIV/STD prevention provided at patient visits for acute problems. Implications for practice This study indicates an important role NPs can play in providing preventive services in outpatient hospital departments. The findings reflect the emphasis of the NP education on health counseling and patient education in clinical practice.
Prevention of child abuse and neglect

Abstract With the dramatic increase in recent reports of physical and sexual child abuse and neglect, professionals are well as the public are increasingly concerned about the prevention of child abuse. This article provides an overview of existing child abuse prevention programs (physical abuse and sexual abuse programs are treated separately). Five computerized data bases (psychology, social work, criminal justice, education, and social sciences) were searched for literature published between 1982 and 1991. We also call attention to critical issues that need to be considered in the development and planning of future prevention efforts and evaluations.
In situ saphenous vein bypass--forty years later.

In situ saphenous vein bypass, which was performed first by Rob in 1959, but introduced by Hall in .1962, has been widely applied as an alternative to the reversed bypass. Now, forty years later, it seems appropriate to review its current place and technique. Of the presumed original benefits of the in situ operation, it is now clear that the hemodynamic flow of converging (in situ) versus diverging vein (reversed) boundaries plus better vein/artery size match are the main advantages. It is now popular belief that the reversed saphenous vein graft to the popliteal artery has no significant hemodynamic disadvantage because the vein is of comparable diameter at the knee and in the groin. In contrast, vein bypass from the groin to the ankle strongly favors the in situ procedure because of the convergence of the walls of the vein below the knee and better vein/artery size match. The most controversial facet of the in situ operation has been the question of valvulotome is superior to lyse valves and whether to perform the operation open as originally described, or closed to avoid skin complications from a long groin to ankle incision. Preoperative vein mapping is advantageous for all saphenous vein conduit operations. For open leg in situ procedures, skin bridges and incisions made directly over the vein, directed by mapping, will minimize skin complications. Use of endoscopic in situ techniques is ideal but only with an experienced endoscopist. Valve lysis has improved but is still not foolproof.
Scanning tunneling microscopy of orthorhombic TaS3.

Scanning-tunneling-microscopy studies of orthorhombic ${\mathrm{TaS}}_{3}$ at 77 K show a charge-density modulation of wavelength 4${\mathrm{c}}_{0}$ strongly localized on two separate pairs of chains. The charge maxima are out of phase and suggest a strong coupling between the two charge modulations.
Magnetic Circular Dichroism Spectra for Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles in Xerogels at 5.5 K

Colloidal gold nanoparticles (∼25 nm) and Au9(PPh3)83+ complex ions (<2 nm) are separately encapsulated in optically transparent xerogels. The high quality xerogel is found to be isotropic with no material strain or birefringence that would interfere with the magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) measurements. The MCD and absorption spectra for the surface plasmon band at 523 nm for ∼25 nm gold nanoparticles and for the Au9(PPh3)83+ cluster complex ion in the spectral region of 600−400 nm are examined over the temperature range from 5.5 to 295 K. The MCD spectra for the Au9(PPh3)83+ ion (D2h skeletal geometry) exhibit only B terms and follow the expected temperature dependent patterns for allowed electronic transitions and become better resolved at 5.5 K as compared to those at 295 K. The spectral features at 529, 448, and 402 nm have been assigned previously with the aid of a simple MO scheme to transitions to spin−orbit states of predominately triplet parentage. For colloidal gold, the observed MCD signal i...
Destruxin-A4 chlorohydrin, a novel destruxin from fungus OS-F68576: isolation, structure determination, and biological activity as an inducer of erythropoietin.

In the course of screening for small-molecule modulators of erythropoietin gene expression, five destruxins were isolated from the fungal culture of OS-F68576. The structures were elucidated by extensive 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and by hydrolytic modification. One compound (destruxin-A4 chlorohydrin, 1) is a novel destruxin. All these compounds induced erythropoietin gene expression 5-fold at concentration of 0.2−2 μM.
MP53-14 THE CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF INCIDENTAL PROSTATE AVIDITY ON FDG-PET IMAGING

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET) imaging is increasingly used for the initial staging and surveillance of multiple malignancies. Its utility in prostate cancer, however, is unclear as it does not appear to improve existing clinical staging. Accordingly, the significance of incidental prostate avidity on FDG-PET scan remains unclear. We sought to review our experience with incidental prostate avidity on FDGPET imaging. METHODS: We identified patients from January 2000 to August 2013 who were found to have incidentally-noted prostate avidity on FDG-PET scan during the diagnosis or monitoring of unrelated disease processes. We evaluated patients who underwent prostate biopsy prompted by the FDG-PET findings. RESULTS: We identified 65 patients with findings on FDG-PET concerning for primary prostate malignancy who underwent a prostate biopsy prompted by these findings. The median age at the time of biopsy was 68. Median pre-biopsy PSA was 4.02 (range 0.34 21). 40 of 65 patientswere cT1c (61.5%),while 25were cT2 (38.5%). The indication for FDG-PET was solid tumors in 30 (46%), hematologic malignancy (leukemia, lymphoma) in 21 (32%), and evaluation for benign lesions in 14 (22%). Prostate biopsy was positive for malignancy in 25 patients (38%) and negative formalignancy in 40 patients (62%). In patients with positive biopsy findings, low risk disease was identified in 13 (52%), intermediate risk disease in 9 (36%), and high risk disease in 3 (12%), as definedby the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Thirteen patients (52%) diagnosed with prostate cancer underwent treatment with radical prostatectomy, radiation, or androgen deprivation, while the remainder underwent active surveillance. With a median follow up of 15 months, no patients progressed to metastatic prostate cancer and there were no prostate cancer deaths. One patient progressed on surveillance and underwent proton beam therapy. One patient who initially had a negative prostate biopsy was diagnosed with intermediate risk prostate cancer 17 months later and underwent radical prostatectomy. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately 38% of patients with incidental FDG avidity in the prostate will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, with 18% of all FDG-PET avid prostates harboring intermediate or high risk malignancy. This risk warrants further evaluation to determine the need for prostate biopsy, in concert with other factors, such as age, family history, comorbidity, PSA and clinical examination.
Consumer Health Information Resource Service (CHIRS): A Resource for Nebraska

CHIRS, the Consumer Health Information Resource Service for the state of Nebraska, began in 1985 and has continued to grow and change throughout its 17 years. The aim of the service is to provide health information, free of charge, to residents of the state, regardless of their location. The program has evolved to include other participants in the state and to seek other tools, such as the Internet, for delivering health information to Nebraska residents.
Appreciating tropical coastal wetlands from a landscape perspective

Freshwater forested wetlands are often found just upslope from mangrove forests in both high- and low-rainfall areas in the tropics. A case study on the island of Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, demonstrates how important both wetland types are to each other hydrologically and to local economies as well. Together, these wetlands form a landscape that provides goods worth the equivalent of nearly two-thirds the median household income in the region. Elsewhere around the world, similar contiguous pairs of wetlands are extensively used by local populations. However, while the importance of mangroves is well recognized, goods and services provided by freshwater wetlands – which are also much threatened by coastal development – are not nearly so well documented. Because such landscapes provide sustenance for millions of people, the natural and socioeconomic roles that both types of wetlands play must be better understood and protected as plans for coastal development proceed.
Prophylaxis of heterotopic ossification - an updated review.

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is defined as the process by which trabecular bone forms outside of the skeletal structure, occupying space in soft tissue where it does not normally exist. The current popular prophylactic treatment modalities include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and radiation therapy, although the literature remains inconclusive as to which is superior. Additionally, both treatments can lead to adverse effects to the patient. Recently there have been several studies attempting to identify new aspects of the etiology of heterotopic bone formation and introduce new prophylactic modalities with increased efficacy and fewer side effects. For this review, we selectively retrieved articles from Medline published from 1958–2008 on the prophylaxis of HO with the aim of assisting readers in quickly grasping the current status of research and clinical aspects of HO prophylaxis.
1-substituted tetrahydroisoquinoline analogs: beta adrenoceptor blocking agents in the isolated perfused rabbit heart.

Abstract The 1-benzyl and 1-methyl congeners of trimetoquinol were tested for antagonism of receptors which mediate inotropy and chronotropy in the isolated perfused rabbit heart. 1-Benzyltrimetoquinol was found to be a blocker of resting, isoproterenol- and dobutamine-stimulated inotropy at concentrations (10 −7 −10 −5 M) which did not significantly affect chronotropy ( > 10 −5 M). 1-Methyltrimetoquinol was found to be a partial agonist in the resting myocardium, weakly blocking inotropy and chronotropy at doses of 10 −7 −10 −5 M. At a concentration of 10 −4 M, 1-methyltrimetoquinol was an agonist of both chronotropy and inotropy. These stimulatory properties appear to be direct (not affected by prior reserpinization) and antagonized by propranolol. In the isoproterenol-stimulated heart, 1-methyltrimetoquinol was a specific negative inotropic agent at doses (10 −7 −10 −5 M) above which agonist properties were manifest. At 10 −4 M, 1-methyltrimetoquinol acted synergistically with isoproterenol to produce positive inotropy and chronotropy significantly greater than that of isoproterenol alone. Currently, it is believed that the receptors which mediate inotropy and chronotropy are beta adrenergic in nature. Thus, it would appear that 1-benzyltrimetoquinol is a specific antagonist of those beta -receptors which mediate inotropy, while 1-methyltrimetoquinol is a partial agonist of both inotropic and chronotropic beta -receptors. Further, the response to these compounds does not appear to be proportionate in various regions of the myocardium.
Solvent dependent behavior of energy transfer in a mixed metal ruthenium(II)/rhenium(I) complex

Abstract The absorption and emission properties of (bpy) 2 Ru(bb) 2+ , Ru(bpy) 2 (bb)Re(CO) 3 py 3+ and (bb)Re(CO) 3 py 1+ , where bpy is 2,2′-bipyridine, bb is 1,2-bis(4-methyl-2,2′-bipyridyl-4′-yl)ethane and py is pyridine, were studied in various solvents. Absorptions attributed to dπ(Ru) → π*(1)(bpy) were located between 400 and 500 nm, those attributed to dπ(Ru) → π*(2)(bpy) and dπ(Re) → π*(bb) were found between 300 and 400 nm, and those attributed to π → π* (intraligand) were observed between 200 and 300 nm. The absorption energy maxima of the dπ(Ru) → π*(1)(bpy) transition followed the optical dielectric constant of the solvent defined by the (1− D op )/ (2 D op +1) relationship. In the heterometallic complex, absorption of light in the 300–400 nm region was partitioned between the ruthenium and rhenium centers. Emission in solution at roam temperature was observed from the ruthenium center upon excitation at either 436 or 355 nm. While emission was also observed from the rhenium center in (bb)Re(CO) 3 py 1+ when excited at 355 nm, none was observed from the rhenium site of the mixed metal complex. The excitation energy absorbed by the rhenium center in this complex was transferred to the ruthenium center with greater than 80% efficiency. The energy transfer process was rapid as noted by the transient absorption spectrum of the heterometallic complex, which contained only the features related to the bpy − radical and the Ru(II) bleach. In addition, an inverse (1− D op )/(2 D op +1) dependence on the emission energy maxima of (bb)Re(CO) 3 py 1+ was observed.
Summer school effects in a randomized field trial

Abstract This field-based randomized trial examined the effect of assignment to and participation in summer school for two moderately at-risk samples of struggling readers. Application of multiple regression models to difference scores capturing the change in summer reading fluency revealed that kindergarten students randomly assigned to summer school outperformed their control group peers by .60 of a standard deviation in an intent-to-treat analysis. For the first grade sample, the intent-to-treat estimate was over three quarters of a standard deviation. The contrast in performance was greater when the comparison was focused more specifically on the change in literacy between treatment participants (i.e., randomly assigned students who actually attended summer school) and students randomly assigned to the control group and in analyses that explicitly adjusted for non-compliance with treatment assignment. These results support the experiential intuition of school district personnel regarding the benefits of summer school and suggest that targeted summer instruction can be a useful strategy to support student learning over the summer months.