cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of Tn5307 exchange and intergeneric transfer of genes associated with nisin production

Transfer of the Lactococcus lactis 11454 nisin-sucrose conjugative transposon, Tn5307, was investigated to develop a methodology for conjugation of this element to other lactic acid bacteria. Tn5307 exchange was sensitive to temperature and pH but was not affected by protease or amylase treatments to donor cells. Moreover, conjugation studies demonstrated that the direct-plate method could be employed to rapidly identify LM2301 transconjugants able to transfer Tn5307 at least ten times more efficiently than 11454. Intergeneric transfer of nisin and sucrose genes between L. lactis and a dairy Enterococcus sp. was also investigated. Erythromycin-resistant Enterococcus sp. recipients were developed by electro-transformation with pGK13 or by conjugal introduction of the broad-host-range plasmid pAM\1. Matings between L. lactis 11454 and an Enterococcus sp. recipient that contained pAM\1 yielded sucrose-positive, nisin-immune transconjugants at a frequency of 2.3 × 10−9 transconjugants per donor cfu. Agar-overlay assays for nisin production revealed that enterococcal transconjugants did not produce the bacteriocin, but DNA·DNA hybridization with a nisA-specific probe demonstrated that these bacteria had acquired the nisin structural gene.
BlochLib: a fast NMR C++ tool kit.

Computational power, speed, and algorithmic complexity are increasing at a continuing rate. As a result, scientific simulations continue to investigate more and more complex systems. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is no exception. NMR theory and language is extremely well developed, that simulations have become a standard by which experiments are measured. Nowadays, complex computations can be performed on normal workstations and workstation clusters. Basic numerical operations have also become extremely optimized and new computer language paradigms have become implemented. Currently there exists no complete NMR tool kit which uses these newer techniques. This paper describes such a tool kit, BlochLib. BlochLib is designed to be the next generation of NMR simulation packages; however, the basic techniques implemented are applicable to almost any problem. BlochLib enables the user to simulate almost any NMR idea both experimental or theoretical in nature. Both classical and quantum mechanical techniques are included and demonstrated, as well as several powerful user interface tools. The total tool kit and documentation can be found at http://waugh.cchem.berkeley.edu/blochlib/.
Phylogeny and character evolution in the bee-assassins (Insecta: Heteroptera: Reduviidae).

Abstract Apiomerus, the charismatic bee-assassins (>108 spp.), belong to the New World resin bugs in the harpactorine tribe Apiomerini (12 extant genera) that is characterized by a novel predation strategy, resin trap predation. Apiomerini also exhibit striking genitalic diversity that has shaped subgeneric classifications within the genus Apiomerus and females of some species of Apiomerus are known to engage in unique maternal care behaviors. The lack of a phylogenetic framework currently hinders evolutionary interpretations of genitalic morphology and maternal care. We here present a molecular phylogeny based on 4, 477 bp of six ribosomal and protein coding genes and 95 terminal taxa using parsimony and maximum likelihood approaches as a way of addressing these shortcomings. Apiomerini are monophyletic, with Heniartes being the sistergroup to all remaining taxa that form the monophyletic Manicocoris (Calliclopius, Manicocoris, Micrauchenus, and Ponerobia) and Apiomerus (Agriocoris, Apiomerus, and Sphodrolestes) clades. Previously proposed subgeneric groups are polyphyletic, but several proposed species groups are recovered as monophyletic. Ancestral state reconstruction of the metatibial comb indicates that this structure evolved in the ancestor of all Apiomerini where it was present in males and in females; it became strongly sexually dimorphic (better developed in females than in males) in the Apiomerus clade (Apiomerus + Agriocoris + Sphodrolestes). Genitalic features reveal a pattern of homoplasy, but frequently are nonetheless useful to diagnose supraspecific groups within Apiomerus. The complex genitalia found within Apiomerus are derived for that clade. We conclude that, using the metatibial comb as a proxy, maternal care is relatively common in the tribe Apiomerini and propose that it likely evolved at the base of the Apiomerus clade if not at the base of Apiomerini.
Regulation of Syk by phosphorylation on serine in the linker insert

The Syk protein-tyrosine kinase is phosphorylated on multiple tyrosines after the aggregation of the B cell antigen receptor. However, metabolic labeling experiments indicate that Syk is inducibly phosphorylated to an even greater extent on serine after receptor ligation. A combination of phosphopeptide mapping and mass spectrometric analyses indicates that serine 291 is a major site of phosphorylation. Serine 291 lies within a 23-amino acid insert located within the linker B region that distinguishes Syk from SykB and Zap-70. The phosphorylation of serine-291 by protein kinase C enhances the ability of Syk to couple the antigen receptor to the activation of the transcription factors NFAT and Elk-1. Protein interaction studies indicate a role for the phosphorylated linker insert in promoting an interaction between Syk and the chaperone protein, prohibitin.
Unique properties of transition metal quinone complexes of the MQ3 series

Abstract Transition metal complexes of ligands derived from o -benzoquinones have been shown to exhibit unique versatility in their electronic, structural and magnetic properties. Examples of these properties are described for complexes of the MQ 3 series with ligands coordinated in the form of semiquinonate (SQ) radical anions, catecholate dianions (Cat), and unreduced benzoquinones (BQ). Electrochemical activity may occur at either the metal or ligand; SQ complexes exhibit temperature dependent magnetic properties resulting from M–SQ, SQ–SQ, and intermolecular exchange coupling; equilibria between M I (SQ)/M II (Cat) redox isomers has been observed to occur in solution and in the solid state; charge localization has resulted in the formation of complexes containing mixed-valence ligands; strong π donation from Cat oxygens has been found to stabilize metal ions in unusually high oxidation states. Examples of these properties from among compounds of the MQ 3 series are described.
A U.S. government publications collection in a non-depository research library A case study

Abstract The collection development method of most research libraries for U.S. government publications is to participate in the Federal Depository Library (FDLP). This article offers a case study of a medium-size research library without depository status that maintains a comparable 80 percent U.S. documents collection through several major microfiche collections and selected subscriptions. Offered as an alternative method of collecting U.S. government publications, this non-depository case scenario is compared with depository status as it relates to staff, shelving, binding, collection analysis, quality of service, and other advantages and disadvantages. A view of these same factors in the more electronic FDLP of the future is also provided, from the perspective of a non-depository library.
Predictions for an invaded world: A strategy to predict the distribution of native and non-indigenous species at multiple scales

Reusser, D. A., and Lee II, H. 2008. Predictions for an invaded world: a strategy to predict the distribution of native and non-indigenous species at multiple scales. - ICES Journal of Marine Science, 65: 742-745.Habitat models can be used to predict the distributions of marine and estuarine non-indigenous species (NIS) over several spatial scales. At an estuary scale, our goal is to predict the estuaries most likely to be invaded, but at a habitat scale, the goal is to predict the specific locations within an estuary that are most vulnerable to invasion. As an initial step in evaluating several habitat models, model performance for a suite of benthic species with reasonably well-known distributions on the Pacific coast of the US needs to be compared. We discuss the utility of non-parametric multiplicative regression (NPMR) for predicting habitat- and estuary-scale distributions of native and NIS. NPMR incorporates interactions among variables, allows qualitative and categorical variables, and utilizes data on absence as well as presence. Preliminary results indicate that NPMR generally performs well at both spatial scales and that distributions of NIS are predicted as well as those of native species. For most species, latitude was the single best predictor, although similar model performance could be obtained at both spatial scales with combinations of other habitat variables. Errors of commission were more frequent at a habitat scale, with omission and commission errors approximately equal at an estuary scale.
Getting Started: Initiating Critical Ethnography and Community-Based Action Research in a Program of Rural Health Studies

Rural populations experience higher rates of illness, less access to health care resources, and lower rates of health insurance coverage than do urban populations. A need exists to identify and address the health care needs of rural communities and other isolated populations and to contextualize the findings in the larger rural health environment. Critical ethnography combined with community-based action research is a constructive approach for improving the health status of rural elders as well as other members of isolated communities. Detailed guidelines on how to initiate an ethnographic community-based action study, as shown through a study that explores the definitions of health, health care perceptions, and health care issues for rural elders in the southwestern United States, highlight the value of this type of research for the study of the health care issues of rural populations.
Mathematics anxiety and mental arithmetic performance: An exploratory investigation

Abstract Two exploratory studies were conducted to determine if mathematics anxiety, as assessed by the Mathematics Anxiety Rating Scale (MARS), is related to the underlying mental processes of arithmetic performance. MARS scores were higher when the test was administered by computer, vs. the standard paper-and-pencil format, and were higher for female than male college students. Small but significant processing differences in simple addition and multiplication were found when subjects were divided by quartiles into anxiety groups. Much larger differences in processing speed and accuracy were found with complex addition problems and a set of difficult problems (e.g. 9 × 16 = 134, true or false) that tested all four arithmetic operations. Overall, the low anxiety group was consistently the most rapid and accurate, the medium high was consistently the slowest, and the high anxiety group the most prone to errors. The results suggest that genuine performance differences exist among the several levels of mathe...
Aerobic and anaerobic bacteriology of perirectal abscess in children.

Aspirates of pus from perirectal abscesses in 28 children were studied for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. A total of 87 isolates (64 anaerobic and 23 aerobic) were recovered from the patients, an average of 2.3 anaerobes and 0.8 aerobes per specimen. Anaerobic organisms alone were recovered from 15 specimens (54%), and in nine specimens (32%) they were mixed with aerobic organisms. Aerobic organisms were recovered in pure culture in only four patients (14%). The predominant anaerobic organisms were Bacteroides sp (32 isolates, including 14 B fragilis group and seven B melaninogenicus group), Gram-positive anaerobic cocci(15), Fusobacterium sp (six), and Clostridium sp (three). The predominant aerobic organisms were Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (six of each), group A β-hemolytic streptococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus morganii (two of each). Five children had a serious underlying chronic disease; three of these had an accompanying bacteremia and two died. Incision and drainage were performed on all patients: some children also received parenteral, or oral antibiotic treatment, or both.
INFLUENCE OF HUMIC-RICH ORGANIC AMENDMENTS TO CONIFEROUS NURSERY SOILS ON DOUGLAS-FIR GROWTH, DAMPING-OFF AND ASSOCIATED SOIL MICROORGANISMS

Abstract Fusarium spp are absent from coniferous forest soils, yet are conspicous in conifer nursery soils. To test the hypothesis that loss of humus from nursery soils may affect Fusarium spp survival, three nursery soils were amended with four concentrations of three organic materials high in humic content. Amendment-induced increases and occasional decreases in tree growth varied with soil origin. A humic-rich amendment that stimulated tree growth in all soils also increased the numbers of several soil microbial groups (“total” bacteria, actinomycetes, extracellular-chitinase producers and facultative anaerobes). Fusarium-induced damping-off was reduced in one of the three soils by all amendments. Ectomycorrhizae were increased by only one type of amendment and then in only one of the soils. The complex nature of soil-humic interactions and the physiological action of these substances on roots and microbial cells complicates predicting the efficacy of humic-rich amendments to nursery soils.
Poverty, Race, and Parental Involvement During the Transition to Elementary School

Using multilevel models of data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study—Kindergarten Cohort (N = 20,356), the authors find that parental involvement in education partially mediates the association between family poverty and children’s math and reading achievement in kindergarten, but differences exist across race. In Asian families, poor and nonpoor children have similar levels of achievement. Poverty is not related to Black children’s participation in organized activities, but these activities are not associated with Black children’s achievement. Home-learning activities predict reading achievement in Hispanic families only. The findings provide support for application of the family process model to educational outcomes during the transition to elementary school and underscore the need to examine developmental models across racial subsets of the population.
Overexpression of a heterologous protein, haloalkane dehalogenase, in a poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate‐deficient strain of the facultative methylotroph Methylobacterium extorquens AM1

Using an expression vector containing pmxaF, a strong native promoter, expression of a model heterologous protein, haloalkane dehalogenase, from Xanthobacter autotrophicus GJ10 was achieved in the methylotrophic bacterium, Methylobacterium extorquens AM1. Although expression using the wild-type strain was <5% of total cell protein, expression at a level of 10% of the total cell protein was achieved in a mutant unable to synthesize poly-β-hydroxybutyrate granules. Two other tested heterologous proteins, catechol dioxygenase and green fluorescent protein, were expressed at moderate levels in both wild-type and the PHB-negative strain. These results suggest that the M. extorquens PHB-negative strain is a possible platform for overexpression of heterologous proteins with labeled or unlabeled methanol as a starting material. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 81: 263–268, 2003.
Studies on the heterologous immunogenicity of a methanol-insoluble fraction of attenuated tubercle bacilli (bcg). II. Protection against tumor isografts.

A methanol-insoluble residue (MER) of phenol-killed attenuated tubercle bacilli (BCG), which has been reported previously to be capable of evoking heightened resistance to infection with antigenically unrelated microorganisms, was found to affect as well the resistance of highly inbred mice against tumor isografts. In most instances, the MER evoked heightened resistance against the tumor implants, but heightened susceptibility was the effect induced against two of the tumors tested, and no effect was elicited against one neoplasm. It is suggested that the heightened susceptibility occasionally produced by pretreatment with MER may also be of immunological nature, i.e. immunological enhancement. Treatment with MER was more effective when administered some time before tumor challenge than when given simultaneously with, or after, tumor implantation. The protective effects manifested against some tumors were of a high order, a significant number of animals rejecting the neoplastic implants, and were displayed even when several months elapsed between treatment and challenge. Living BCG and intact phenol-killed bacilli also evoked heightened resistance against some of the tumors tested, and in one experiment living BCG proved effective whereas MER did not. On the whole, however, MER was the most active (and least toxic, as shown previously) of the several tubercle bacillus preparations tested. MER elicited heightened reactivity against first transplant generation tumors as well as against tumors maintained for considerable periods of time by repeated animal passage, and against spontaneously arising as well as against induced neoplasms. The experimental parameters necessary to demonstrate maximal effects varied somewhat from tumor to tumor. In general, however, single intraperitoneal injections of small quantities of MER, of the order of 0.25 to 1.0 mg, afforded the best protection.
Content-based recommendations with Poisson factorization

We develop collaborative topic Poisson factorization (CTPF), a generative model of articles and reader preferences. CTPF can be used to build recommender systems by learning from reader histories and content to recommend personalized articles of interest. In detail, CTPF models both reader behavior and article texts with Poisson distributions, connecting the latent topics that represent the texts with the latent preferences that represent the readers. This provides better recommendations than competing methods and gives an interpretable latent space for understanding patterns of readership. Further, we exploit stochastic variational inference to model massive real-world datasets. For example, we can fit CPTF to the full arXiv usage dataset, which contains over 43 million ratings and 42 million word counts, within a day. We demonstrate empirically that our model outperforms several baselines, including the previous state-of-the art approach.
Erosion of amorphous nickel--phosphorus

The steady-state erosion rate of electrodeposited amorphous Ni/sub 80/P/sub 20/ by angular alumina particles has been measured as a function of impingement angle from 15/sup 0/--90/sup 0/, particle velocity from 50--100 m/s, and average particle diameter from 40--390 ..mu..m. The erosion rate can be described by a power law in velocity and particle size. The erosion rates in Ni/sub 80/P/sub 20/ were compared to those measured for electrodeposited pure crystalline nickel. For all experimental conditions the erosion rate in the amorphous alloy exceeded that of nickel. The material removal in amorphous Ni/sub 80/P/sub 20/ is attributed to formation of plastic shear bands below the impact areas. For the most energetic particles the erosion leads to the formation of melt, which seems to be a consequence of the localized shear.
The Symmetric Tensor Lichnerowicz Algebra and a Novel Associative Fourier-Jacobi Algebra

Lichnerowicz's algebra of differential geometric operators acting on symmetric tensors can be obtained from generalized geodesic motion of an observer carrying a complex tangent vector. This relation is based upon quantizing the classical evolution equations, and identifying wavefunctions with sections of the symmetric tensor bundle and Noether charges with geometric operators. In general curved spaces these operators obey a deformation of the Fourier-Jacobi Lie algebra of sp(2,R). These results have already been generalized by the authors to arbitrary tensor and spinor bundles using supersymmetric quantum mechanical models and have also been applied to the theory of higher spin particles. These Proceedings review these results in their simplest, symmetric tensor setting. New results on a novel and extremely useful reformulation of the rank 2 deformation of the Fourier-Jacobi Lie algebra in terms of an associative algebra are also presented. This new algebra was originally motivated by studies of operator orderings in enveloping algebras. It provides a new method that is superior in many respects to common techniques such as Weyl or normal ordering.
Critical role of 5-HT1A, 5-HT3, and 5-HT7 receptor subtypes in the initiation, generation, and propagation of the murine colonic migrating motor complex

The colonic migrating motor complex (CMMC) is necessary for fecal pellet propulsion in the murine colon. We have previously shown that 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) released from enterochromaffin cells activates 5-HT3 receptors on the mucosal processes of myenteric Dogiel type II neurons to initiate the events underlying the CMMC. Our aims were to further investigate the roles of 5-HT1A, 5-HT3, and 5-HT7 receptor subtypes in generating and propagating the CMMC using intracellular microelectrodes or tension recordings from the circular muscle (CM) in preparations with and without the mucosa. Spontaneous CMMCs were recorded from the CM in isolated murine colons but not in preparations without the mucosa. In mucosaless preparations, ondansetron (3 μM; 5-HT3 antagonist) plus hexamethonium (100 μM) completely blocked spontaneous inhibitory junction potentials, depolarized the CM. Ondansetron blocked the preceding hyperpolarization associated with a CMMC. Spontaneous CMMCs and CMMCs evoked by spritzing 5-HT (10 and 100 μM) or nerve stimulation in preparations without the mucosa were blocked by SB 258719 or SB 269970 (1–5 μM; 5-HT7 antagonists). Both NAN-190 and (S)-WAY100135 (1–5 μM; 5-HT1A antagonists) blocked spontaneous CMMCs and neurally evoked CMMCs in preparations without the mucosa. Both NAN-190 and (S)-WAY100135 caused an atropine-sensitive depolarization of the CM. The precursor of 5-HT, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) (10 μM), and 5-carboxamidotryptamine (5-CT) (5 μM; 5-HT1/5/7 agonist) increased the frequency of spontaneous CMMCs. 5-HTP and 5-CT also induced CMMCs in preparations with and without the mucosa, which were blocked by SB 258719. 5-HT1A, 5-HT3, and 5-HT7 receptors, most likely on Dogiel Type II/AH neurons, are important in initiating, generating, and propagating the CMMC. Tonic inhibition of the CM appears to be driven by ongoing activity in descending serotonergic interneurons; by activating 5-HT7 receptors on AH neurons these interneurons also contribute to the generation of the CMMC.
In-situ measurement of impedance of die power delivery system

The modified method of measurement of impedance of die power delivery system is presented. In contrast to the previous approach, the proposed methodology includes a new method of detailed reconstruction of the on-chip current for a step-wise computer process. The new methodology is based on representation of a chip as a variable resistor. The measurement results show the most pronounced difference between the new and previous methodologies in the frequency regions of power delivery resonances. The difference is higher for chips with higher Q-factors.
Day and Night Habitat Associations of Wintering Dunlin (Calidris alpina) within an Agriculture-Wetland Mosaic

Abstract. Darkness comprises more than half of each 24-hr cycle during winter in California's Sacramento Valley, but no studies have assessed nocturnal habitat use by wintering shorebirds at this inland site. From February to May 2013, the day and night habitat associations of radio-tagged Dunlin (Calidris alpina) were compared between post-harvest flooded rice fields and managed freshwater wetlands in the Sacramento Valley. Dunlin had decreasing associations with rice during both day and night from February to April. Dunlin exclusively used rice at night until 25 March, when they shifted to wetlands. During the day, Dunlin were regularly associated with both rice and wetlands until 4 March, and they exclusively used wetlands beginning 25 March. Diel movements by individual Dunlin revealed that birds using rice during the day also used rice during the subsequent night. Our findings suggest that flooded rice, when available, may be more suitable as nocturnal habitat than managed wetlands, and the removal o...
An Efficiency-Enhanced DCM Buck Regulator With Improved Switching Timing of Power Transistors

This brief presents circuit techniques to improve the power efficiencies of a discontinuous-conduction mode (DCM) buck regulator for portable applications. A switched-capacitorcomparator-based adaptive dead-time control is developed to provide fast and accurate sensing and comparison for optimizing the switching timing of power transistors and thus simultaneously minimizing the power losses caused by the reverse inductor current, body-diode conduction, and shoot-through current. A new ringing suppression circuit is also proposed not to affect the dead-time of power transistors during switching instants for additional power savings. Implemented in a 0.35-?m standard CMOS process, the proposed DCM buck regulator has only ?20-ns sensing delay and achieves > 84% power efficiency for load currents of > 5 mA when the input voltage is 1.8 V.
Pipelining computations in a tree of processors

The computational power of a tree of processors is investigated. It is demonstrated that a tree of processors can solve certain problems impressively fast by exploiting the internal pipelining capabilities. Efficient tree algorithms are designed for two different problems: selection and maintaining dictionaries. It is shown that an O(log n)-height tree of processors can find the kth smallest element of n numbers in deterministic O((log n)/sup 2+o(1)/) steps, an impressive improvement over previous results. The main tools are the development of a new sampling technique and an elegant internal pipelining strategy. A lower bound is established for this selection problem. Another variant of the sampling technique reduces the storage requirement of R.M. Karp et al.'s (1986) tree searching algorithm while maintaining its speed. It is established that dictionary operations can be performed with a pipelined interval of O(1) and a response time of O(height of the tree), which again improves a known result and settles an open problem. This is based on being able to make the tree operate like a complete tree view from the root. >
The investigation of severe asthma to define phenotypes.

Summary Severe asthmatics often exhibit poor control despite high doses of inhaled corticosteroids with or without systemic corticosteroids and suffer from persistent symptoms and/or recurrent exacerbations. Five to ten percentage of the asthmatic population falls within this category. Patients with severe asthma are a heterogeneous group and should be investigated to confirm the diagnosis, identify comorbidities, exclude alternative diagnoses, together with an evaluation of treatment adherence and side-effects from medications. Optimization of asthma medications and monitoring the control and pattern of asthma usually takes place over a period of 6 months. In patients with confirmed severe refractory asthma, further evaluation is needed in terms of detailed lung function, of airway and lung structure using high resolution computed tomographic scanning, and of airway inflammatory processes and biomarkers using induced sputum or bronchial biopsies. Patients with severe asthma are best investigated and managed with a multidisciplinary team. Severe asthma consists of different phenotypes that need defining. Investigation of severe asthma should bring into the open the various characteristics of the disease that could point to particular phenotype. Inclusion of investigations based on transcriptomics and proteomics should expand, improve classification and understanding of severe asthma, with the ultimate hope of finding more effective treatments and a step towards personalized medicine.
Zebrafish as a model for Vibrio parahaemolyticus virulence.

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a Gram-negative, naturally occurring marine bacterium. Subpopulations of strains belonging to this species cause an acute self-limiting gastroenteritis in humans and, less commonly, wound infections. In vivo models to differentiate avirulent and virulent strains and evaluate the pathogenic potential of strains of this species have been largely focused on the presence of known virulence factors such as the thermostable direct haemolysin (TDH), the TDH-related haemolysin (TRH) or the contributions of the type 3 secretion systems. However, virulence is likely to be multifactorial, and additional, yet to be identified factors probably contribute to virulence in this bacterium. In this study, we investigated an adult zebrafish model to assess the overall virulence of V. parahaemolyticus strains. The model could detect differences in the virulence potential of strains when animals were challenged intraperitoneally, based on survival time. Differences in survival were noted irrespective of the source of isolation of the strain (environmental or clinical) and regardless of the presence or absence of the known virulence factors TDH and TRH, suggesting the influence of additional virulence factors. The model was also effective in comparing differences in virulence between the wild-type V. parahaemolyticus strain RIMD2210633 and isogenic pilin mutants ΔpilA and ΔmshA, a double mutant ΔpilA : ΔmshA, as well as a putative chitin-binding protein mutant, ΔgbpA.
Separation of water‐soluble polymers using capillary‐channeled polymer fiber stationary phases

Chromatographic separations of synthetic and natural polymers are usually affected by a size exclusion chromatography (SEC) mechanism. Although SEC is a proven method of separation based on hydrodynamic size, a chromatographic method based solely on chemical interactions would present certain advantages. This laboratory has been investigating the use of capillary-channeled polymer (C-CP) fibers as stationary phases in HPLC for the separation of biomacromolecules. C-CP fibers allow highly efficient fluid transport and an amorphous surface structure, minimizing mass transfer effects commonly associated with porous, packed-bed technologies. Choice of the base fiber identity allows flexibility in the potential types of solute-surface interactions. Two water-soluble polymers, glycolic acid ethoxylate 4-nonylphenyl ether, and poly(4-vinylpyridine hydrochloride), were used as test solutes because of their similarities to polymers of interest in the consumer products industry. SEC separation of this pair was not possible due to the similarities in hydrodynamic size. Poly(ethylene terephthalate), polyester and nylon-6 C-CP fibers were evaluated as stationary phase materials. The former was found to offer superior chromatographic separations and recoveries when operating under what would be considered to be typical RP separation conditions: a flow rate of 1 mL/min and gradient of 0-100% H 2 O/ACN with 0.06% TFA over 5 min.
On Applications of some Results Related to Bivariate Gaussian Density Distribution Functions

ABSTRACT Assuming that two random variables x 1 and x 2 are correlated and Caussian, expressions arc obtained for the probability density distribution and tho nth moment of z where. Application of tho results to electromagnetic wave propagation and scattering, noise theory and turbulent flow are pointed out.
High-resolution fmri of content-sensitive subsequent memory responses in human medial temporal lobe

The essential role of the medial temporal lobe (MTL) in long-term memory for individual events is well established, yet important questions remain regarding the mnemonic functions of the component structures that constitute the region. Within the hippocampus, recent functional neuroimaging findings suggest that formation of new memories depends on the dentate gyrus and the CA3 field, whereas the contribution of the subiculum may be limited to retrieval. During encoding, it has been further hypothesized that structures within MTL cortex contribute to encoding in a content-sensitive manner, whereas hippocampal structures may contribute to encoding in a more domain-general manner. In the current experiment, high-resolution fMRI techniques were utilized to assess novelty and subsequent memory effects in MTL subregions for two classes of stimuli-faces and scenes. During scanning, participants performed an incidental encoding (target detection) task with novel and repeated faces and scenes. Subsequent recognition memory was indexed for the novel stimuli encountered during scanning. Analyses revealed voxels sensitive to both novel faces and novel scenes in all MTL regions. However, similar percentages of voxels were sensitive to novel faces and scenes in perirhinal cortex, entorhinal cortex, and a combined region comprising the dentate gyrus, CA2, and CA3, whereas parahippocampal cortex, CA1, and subiculum demonstrated greater sensitivity to novel scene stimuli. Paralleling these findings, subsequent memory effects in perirhinal cortex were observed for both faces and scenes, with the magnitude of encoding activation being related to later memory strength, as indexed by a graded response tracking recognition confidence, whereas subsequent memory effects were scene-selective in parahippocampal cortex. Within the hippocampus, encoding activation in the subiculum correlated with subsequent memory for both stimulus classes, with the magnitude of encoding activation varying in a graded manner with later memory strength. Collectively, these findings suggest a gradient of content sensitivity from posterior (parahippocampal) to anterior (perirhinal) MTL cortex, with MTL cortical regions differentially contributing to successful encoding based on event content. In contrast to recent suggestions, the present data further indicate that the subiculum may contribute to successful encoding irrespective of event content.
The preventative effect of ramosetron on postoperative nausea and vomiting after total thyroidectomy.

Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) frequently develops in patients undergoing thyroidectomy, and propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) has been reported to reduce the incidence of PONV. The present study was undertaken to compare the effects of ramosetron on PONV in women following total thyroidectomy under TIVA. Methods: One hundred and thirty women scheduled for thyroidectomy were allocated to either a control group (n = 65) or a ramosetron group (n = 65). Propofol in combination with remifentanil was used for TIVA in all patients. 2 ml of either intravenous saline (control group) or 0.3 mg of ramosetron (ramosetron group) were administered at the end of the surgery. Fentanyl-based patient-controlled analgesia was implemented for 48 h after surgery in all patients. The incidences and severities of PONV, pain scores, administrations of rescue antiemetics, and the side effects of the antiemetics were documented during the first 48 h after surgery. Results: The incidences of complete response (no PONV, no rescue) in the control and ramosetron groups were 71% and 88%, respectively, during the first 6 h (P = 0.029), 85% and 94% during the next 6 to 24 h period (P = 0.155), and 97% and 95% during the last 24 to 48 h period (P = 1.00). During the first 6 h, the severity of nausea and the use of rescue antiemetic medication were significantly lower in the ramosetron group. Conclusions: Ramosetron was found to be effective at reducing the incidence and severity of postoperative nausea in women that underwent total thyroidectomy with propofol-based TIVA, especially during the first 6 hours postoperatively. (Korean J Anesthesiol 2011; 61: 154-158)
LONG-TERM OUTCOME FOR MEN WITH ANDROGEN INDEPENDENT PROSTATE CANCER TREATED WITH KETOCONAZOLE AND HYDROCORTISONE

ABSTRACTPurpose:: The combination of high dose ketoconazole and hydrocortisone (HDK) is active against androgen independent prostate cancer (AIPC). Median response times with HDK tend to be brief but a significant minority of AIPC patients benefit with extended responses. Well characterized response and survival information, especially in the cohort of patients who experience these longer, more durable, responses has not been previously reported. Characterization of this subgroup is of particular interest since men with long-term responses derive the greatest benefit from HDK therapy.Materials and Methods:: The medical records of 78 patients with AIPC treated with HDK between March 1991 and February 1999 were retrospectively reviewed. Baseline clinical and laboratory factors predictive of prolonged response and survival were identified.Results:: The median baseline prostate specific antigen (PSA) before the initiation of HDK was 25.1. The number of patients with zero, 1 to 3, and more than 3 lesions on bo...
Rethinking the Race to the Bottom: NGOs and the Regulation of Labor Practices

The conventional wisdom in the political economy literature assumes that multinational firms gravitate toward regulatory havens with weak labor and environmental standards, but existing empirical research finds little support for this claim. I argue that these results are a function of an incomplete understanding of the regulatory environment governing foreign investment. Following the optimal penalty theory from the economics literature, I argue that regulations are best understood as the cost to firms of violating the law, which is a function both of the penalty assessed if caught and the probability that regulators observe and punish violations. Thus, the non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that monitor multinational firm behavior in the developing world are a critical component of law enforcement in a global economy. In this paper, I ask how ”effective regulation,” which is a function of both domestic law and the robustness of civil society in a host country, affects firm behavior. I test this question by examining how the interaction of NGOs and de jure labor laws affects firms’ employment decisions and perceptions of regulatory stringency. I find that while labor standards alone are positively associated with labor-intensive foreign investment, effective regulation is negatively associated with the depth of investment by foreign firms. Higher levels of NGO density also increase the likelihood that firms will view labor regulations as a significant obstacle to doing business, even when de jure standards are held constant.
Effect of 1-(m-chlorophenyl)piperazine and 1-(m-trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazine on locomotor activity.

The piperazine-type 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) agonists 1-(m-trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazine (TFMPP), 1-(m-chlorophenyl)-piperazine (m-CPP), 1-(p-chlorophenyl)piperazine (p-CPP) and MK-212 [6-chloro-2-(1-piperazinyl)pyrazine], produced a dose-dependent suppression of spontaneous ambulatory behavior in rats. Pretreatment with the 5-HT antagonists metergoline, methysergide or mianserin, but not selective 5-HT2 or catecholamine antagonists, blocked the reduction of activity caused by TFMPP suggesting that the stimulation of 5-HT receptors was involved in causing this behavioral effect. Other behavioral signs of 5-HT receptor stimulation, such as the 5-HT behavioral syndrome or head-shaking behavior, were not observed in rats injected with TFMPP, m-CPP or MK-212 except at toxic doses. The ability of piperazine agonists to reduce locomotor activity in rats was altered by long-term changes in 5-HT neurotransmission. The destruction of 5-HT neurons by i.v.t. injection of the neurotoxin 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine potentiated the ability of m-CPP to inhibit ambulatory behavior. On the other hand, elevating 5-HT content by administering the monoamine oxidase inhibitors phenelzine or nialamide for 7 days reduced the ability of m-CPP to suppress locomotor activity. Acute administration of the monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or chronic administration of other antidepressants such as desmethylimipramine or iprindole, failed to alter m-CPPs activity-suppressant effects. These studies suggest that chronic changes in 5-HT neurotransmission produce compensatory changes which alter the behavioral response to these piperazine agonists. Taken together with other evidence that both TFMPP and m-CPP are agonists at 5-HT1B and 5-HT1C receptors, the effects of TFMPP and m-CPP on locomotor activity may be associated with the selective activation of 5-HT1C, or possibly 5-HT1B, receptors.
What will replace the mercury sphygmomanometer

Mercury sphygmomanometers are gradually being phased out, not because of any technological advances but because of environmental concerns. While mercury is still accepted as the 'gold standard' for routine clinical measurement, it suffers from two deficiencies: poor observer technique, and problems due to poor maintenance of the devices. At the same time, there is no generally accepted alternative; the most widely advocated candidates are aneroid or oscillometric devices. Oscillometric devices have the advantages of eliminating observer error and mechanical drift, but it is suggested that the inherent limitations of the oscillometric method mean that it cannot become the gold standard for clinical measurement in individual patients. Aneroid monitors have been found in practice to be frequently deficient, and are subject to the same deficiencies in observer technique as mercury devices. Two possible but so far untested techniques are a 'hybrid' sphygmomanometer, whereby the mercury column is replaced by an electronic transducer and display, and the wideband recording technique, which has the potential of using the same basic principle as the auscultatory technique, while eliminating the human observer.
Archives of Scientific Psychology: A New Journal for a New Era

The science of psychology matures in many ways. Its concepts and theories become more precise. Its methods incorporate advances in statistics and research design, as well as new technologies. Publishing in scientific psychology also matures. Archives of Scientific Psychology is a new journal of the American Psychological Association (APA). It is a response to recent changes in how social, behavioral, and cognitive scientists communicate with one another and with the public. As importantly, it responds to changes in what people expect to learn when they read a scientific research report. The subject matter of Archives of Scientific Psychology spans the entire discipline of psychology. Readers will find articles on subjects ranging from neuroscience to political psychology, and all points in between. Articles will also describe research conducted using any of the methods found in the psychologist’s toolbox (Cooper et al., 2012). Articles published in Archives of Scientific Psychology have five characteristics that, together, make them unique:
Fabricating affordable composites

Advanced composites are now established as important structural materials for many applications where the strength-to-weight ratios are of primary importance. Aeronautical applications are of particular importance because of the fuel cost of transporting the unnecessary weight of the structure for its entire life. Composite components for aircraft are fabricated primarily from prepreg materials consolidated in an autoclave. The focus of these components has been primarily for use as aircraft skin. This material and process have consistently produced dependable structural components for a number of years. Now there is a need for primary structural composite components that lay beneath the skin. These components offer a greater manufacturing challenge because the part geometry is considerably more complex than the aircraft skin components. A relatively new fabrication process, Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) is a good candidate for fabricating these components as well as perhaps some of the skin components. Although this process is still considered in the emerging stage, cost advantages are beginning to be realized. The ability to mold geometrically complex composite parts offers the designer an opportunity to reduce part count. Part count reduction alone may offer a significant cost advantage. The raw materials can be less expensive because the intermediate supplier, the prepregger, may be bypassed. Autoclaves, which are very expensive to purchase as well as operate, are not needed for the RTM process. Although the process has its own set of problems, there are many opportunities for part cost reduction as the RTM process technology reaches maturity. 1 Adjunct Associate Research Professor 2 Professor Introduction
Inactivation of Brucella Suis, Burkholderia pseudomallei, Francisella tularensis, and Yersinia pestis using Vaporous Hydrogen Peroxide

This study evaluated the inactivation of Brucella suis, Burkholderia pseudomallei, Francisella tularensis, and Yersinia pestis on glass, Hypalon® rubber glove, and stainless steel using vaporous hy...
Isolation and identification of related gene fragments of cardiac hypertrophy in rats with subtractive hybridization

Basing on the genes expression changes in cardiac hypertrophy, we use the subtractive hybridization to isolate those expression-changed gene fragments. In six groups of materials from three different periods and two different treatment procedures , respectively, there are thirty six fragments isolated, among these twenty four are from heart tissue materials, twelve from perfusion isolated cardiomyocytes. They all show significant differences between the control and model materials by using colony and/or dot hybridization with different cDNA probes.
Prevention of Arterial Calcium Deposition with Diphosphonates and Calcium Entry Blockers

The arterial disease most commonly associated with an increase in arterial calcium is atherosclerosis. In the past, the deposition of calcium in atherosclerotic lesions has been considered to be an end-stage of advanced atheromata formation only [1]. While such end-stage calcification of plaques certainly is one of the prominent features of late atherosclerosis, it has long been recognized that discrete calcium mineral deposition may occur, especially on intimo-medial elastica, in otherwise normal-appearing arteries [2] and, therefore, may be considered an early event in atherogenesis. In fact, in recent years there has been mounting evidence that localized increases in arterial ionic calcium may play a key role in early atherogenesis, stimulating cellular functions of arterial smooth muscle cells and macrophages such as increased cell migration, mitosis, endocytosis of lipoproteins, as well as excessive synthesis and/or secretion of connective tissue macromolecules [3,4]. Focal increases in arterial calcium content also have been implicated in the early pathobiochemistry of the intercellular matrix molecules. Calcium ions are required for the complexing of low- density (LDL) and very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) to sulfated glycosaminoglycans. Calcium-dependent mechanisms may be responsible for the excessive degradation of arterial connective tissue such as the activation of elastolysis by macrophage elastase [5] or the release of collagenolytic, elastolytic, and mucolytic enzymes from platelets [6].
Transurethral Polytetrafluoroethylene Injection in Female Patients With Urinary Continence

AbstractWe present our results with the use of transurethral injection of polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) in 128 female patients with moderate to severe urinary incontinence from 1964 to 1991. Of the patients 60% had undergone previous surgical treatment for the incontinence. The etiologies included stress incontinence, neurogenic bladder, congenital anomalies, trauma and others. More than 73% of the patients improved (54.3% were totally dry). The failure rate was 27%. Complications were minimal. Urinary tract infection and temporary urinary retention occurred in 7 and 6 patients, respectively. Mean followup was 31 months.This study demonstrates that transurethral polytetrafluoroethylene injection is a useful treatment of moderate to severe urinary incontinence in female patients. Polytetrafluoroethylene is particularly useful for patients with failed previous incontinence procedures and poor surgical candidates. Failures are more likely in patients with periurethral fibrosis secondary to a previous uret...