cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Promoting Self-Authorship to Promote Liberal Education

Contemporary college learning outcomes such as critical thinking and intercultural maturity require transformative learning. Self-authorship–the capacity to internally generate one’s beliefs, values, identity, and relationships–is a necessary foundation for transformational learning. This essay describes the evolution of self-authorship and the conditions that promote it based on a 22-year study of adult learning and development. Learning partnerships model how to promote self-authorship and enable learners to take charge of their learning.
Exploring Notions of Freedom In and Through Young Adult Literature

This article offers teachers a critical framework for use and adaptation in organizing class discussions focused on notions of freedom in young adult literature. The authors open by discussing the notion of freedom, including concepts related to negative and positive freedom and to arguments advocating critical discussion of common assumptions surrounding individual freedom and collective responsibility. Examples of classroom questions drawn from a critical literacy framework center on two award-winning young adult novels, The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis and The Other Side of Truth by Beverly Naidoo. Classrooms offer a community where notions of freedom depicted in young adult novels located in war zones can be considered through a critical literacy lens. In addition to the novels discussed in the article, the authors provide a list of other young adult literature for teachers to consider for use in their classrooms.
Comparison of Preregulators as Power Savers

Many modern computer, digital communication, and industrial control equipments are furnished dc power by series-pass regulated supplies. At the voltage and current required, these supplies frequently dissipate twice as much power as they pass on to be used. With increasing interest in conserving energy, it has become desirable to minimize the losses of the supplies. This can be done at modest cost by installing a simple preregulator which is itself relatively efficient. This paper presents the experimental results of comparing three methods of preregulation. The three methods chosen can be retrofit in many existing systems. The three are 1) ferroresonant transformer, 2) replacing existing rectifiers with SCR's, and 3) triac throttling of the input. Each of the three methods has some relative advantages, and each has its detractions. On balance, it appears from measurements reported here that triac throttling is the best method.
A web server's view of the transport layer

This paper presents observations of traffic to and from a particular World-Wide Web server over the course a year and a half. This paper presents a longitudinal look at various network path properties, as well as the implementation status of various protocol options and mechanisms. In particular, this paper considers how World-Wide Web clients utilize TCP connections to transfer web data; the deployment of various TCP and HTTP options; the range of round-trip times observed in the network; packet sizes used for WWW transfers; the implications of the measured advertised window sizes; and the impact of using larger initial congestion window sizes. These properties/mechanisms and their implications are explored. An additional goal of this paper is to provide information to help researchers better simulate and emulate realistic networks.
PSYCHOANALYSIS AND ITS CRITICS

This article discusses the question of the basis of changes in psychoanalytic concepts, theory, and treatment. Illustrative examples discussed include the “widening scope” of the use of “parameters” in psychoanalytic treatment; the rejection of the “Enlightenment Vision” and the concomitant de-emphasis on the role of insight; the concept of “narrative truth”; and the “totalistic” reconceptualization of the meaning of countertransferase. I then discuss the relationship between research and clinical practice and argue that if it is to grow, psychoanalysis must be open to and attempt to integrate findings from other related disciplines. I begin with a distinction between criticisms and critics of psychoanalysis from without and from within. Serious criticism should always be thoughtfully considered, wherever the critic is situated. However, there is an understandable tendency for those within psychoanalysis to rush to its defense when it is criticized from without, particularly when the outside critic launches what is perceived as an unfair attack. It is somewhat like finding it acceptable to criticize one’s wife or husband but rushing to his or her defense in the face of outside criticism. Thus, although I have written many articles critical of certain aspects of psychoanalysis, I wrote to the New York Review of Books defending its contributions in response to Frederick Crews’ wholesale condemnation of psychoanalysis. Our understandable reactions to the unfairness and indiscriminateness of some criticisms from without should not, however, blind us to the need for sustained self-criticisms from within, from those who have a broad sympathy with an overall psychoanalytic perspective but take issue with specific claims or practices. The internal critic is often in a better position to offer challenges and criticisms of specific elements within psychoanalytic theory and practice, because his or her thinking is informed by an intimate knowledge of and commitment to the field. I hope that what follows will be perceived as such. A frequent—I think the most frequent—response from the psychoanalytic community
Behavior contracts in marriage counseling

Abstract Followup data from 10 couples who used behavior contracts in marriage counseling are presented. Conclusions suggest that contracts are edfective in initiating positive marital behavior but not necesrary for continued marital satisfaction. Rationale and spacifics of contract construction are detailed.
Electron microscope studies of antigen-antibody complexes.

Purified rabbit antiferritin—ferritin complexes have been examined in the electron microscope by the negative-staining and shadow-casting techniques. Negatively stained preparations were consistently satisfactory for ferritin molecules, but rarely so for antibodies. The shadow-casting method masks details in the complex revealed by negative staining, but it yields gross information that the latter does not under the conditions used. It was observed that under certain conditions the distance between antigen molecules in the complex increases with increased antibody concentration in the reaction mixture, whereas under other conditions apparent antigen to antigen aggregation could be seen. It was also observed that upon sequential additions of antibody to the reaction mixture, an envelope of molecules other than antigen is built around the initial complex formed by the first addition of antibody. The results are considered to be most easily explained by the anti-antibody theory of antigen—antibody complex formation.
Relationship Characteristics Differ Based on Use of Substances with Sex among an Urban Internet Sample of HIV-Discordant and HIV-Positive Male Couples

Previous research with men who have sex with men (MSM) has found that substance use with sex is strongly associated with HIV acquisition and poor adherence to HIV treatments. Although some studies have assessed male couples’ use of substances with unprotected anal sex, little is known on whether differences in their relationship dynamics are associated with their usage. Current HIV prevention initiatives underscore the importance of studying male couples’ relationship dynamics. Using dyadic data from 28 HIV-positive and 58 HIV-discordant male couples, this analysis sought to: (1) describe, by substance type, whether neither, one, or both partners in the couple used a particular substance with sex within their relationship or outside of the relationship, respectively, and (2) assess, by substance type, whether relationship characteristic differences existed between these three groups of couples with respect to substance use with sex within and outside the relationship. Data from 86 dyads came from a cross-sectional, Internet study. Multivariate multinomial regression models were employed to achieve the aims. Except for alcohol, most did not use substances with sex. Within the relationship, those who used with sex varied by substance type; outside the relationship, most couples had only one partner who used with sex regardless of substance type. Several relationship characteristic differences were noted between the groups of couples. Within the relationship, marijuana and erectile dysfunction medication (EDM) use with sex was associated with having less tangible resources; for outside the relationship, these were associated with perceiving to have greater quality of alternatives. In general, amyl nitrates and party drug use with sex were associated with viewing the main partner as being less dependable for trustworthiness. Marijuana and party drug use with sex within the relationship and EDM use with sex outside the relationship were negatively associated with being able to communicate constructively. Mixed results were noted for relationship satisfaction. Additional research is urgently needed for prevention and promotion of healthy relationships for male couples who use substances with sex.
COPD and human diaphragm muscle dimensions.

To assess the effect of COPD on diaphragm muscle dimensions, we measured diaphragm muscle mass, thickness, area, and lengths in 18 COPD patients at necropsy. We compared these results with data obtained from 22 non-COPD patients matched with regard to age, height, weight, and sex distribution. In the COPD patients, diaphragm muscle mass was 213 ± SD 69 g, thickness was .320±.055 cm, area was 647 ± 160 cm2, coronal muscle length was 27.8±4.0 cm and sagittal muscle length was 15.8±2.8 cm. These values were within ± 8 percent of the comparable values in the non-COPD patients, with no significant differences. There was no correlation between diaphragm length and lung volume in 13 COPD patients with TLC and ten with RV measurements. We conclude that over the range of lung volume encountered (TLC 135 ± 28 percent predicted, RV 102 ± 29 percent predicted TLC), there is no evidence for permanent shortening of the diaphragm.
Selective right ventricular unloading and novel technical concepts in Ebstein's anomaly.

Background Favorable outcomes in Ebstein's anomaly are predicated on tricuspid valve competence and right ventricular function. Successful valve repair should be aggressively pursued to avoid the morbidity of prosthetic tricuspid valve replacement. We report our experience with valve-sparing intracardiac repair, emphasizing novel concepts and techniques of valve repair supplemented by selective bidirectional Glenn (BDG). Methods Between June 1993 and December 2008, 57 nonneonatal patients underwent Ebstein's anomaly repairs. The median age at operation was 8.1 years. All were symptomatic in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class II (n = 38), III (n = 17), or IV (n = 1). Preoperatively, 26 had mild or moderate cyanosis at rest. We used a number of valve reconstructive techniques that differed substantially from those currently described. BDG was performed in 31 patients (55%) who met specific criteria. Results No early or late deaths occurred. At the initial repair, 3 patients received a prosthetic valve. Four patients required reoperation for severe tricuspid regurgitation. Repeat repairs were successful in 2 patients. At follow-up (range, 3 months to 6 years), all patients were acyanotic and in NYHA class I. Tricuspid regurgitation was mild or less in 49 (86%) and moderate in 6 (11%). Freedom from a prosthesis was 91% (52 of 57). Conclusions Following a protocol using BDG for ventricular unloading in selected patients with Ebstein's anomaly can achieve a durable valve-sparing repair using the techniques described. Excellent functional midterm outcomes can be obtained with a selective one and a half ventricle approach to Ebstein's anomaly.
Moral reasoning, perceived competence, and adolescent engagement in risky activity.

Relations among moral reasoning, domain specific perceived competencies, and self-reported engagement in risky activity (substance use and antisocial behavior) were examined with 110 10th-12th grade students. An exploratory model demonstrated that perceived behavioral competence mediated the relation of moral reasoning and engagement in risky behavior such that preconventional moral reasoning predicted perceptions of low behavioral competence, which was associated with engagement in risky activity. The results support contentions of moral theorists that a comprehensive theory of moral development must include self-regulatory mechanisms such as perceptions of competence in order to predict moral conduct.
Oxidation of Fe-C alloys at 500°C

Fe-C alloys containing 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0% C were oxidized in 1 atm O2 at 500°C. Two specimen preparations were used: annealed followed by slow cooling to form coarse pearlite plus proeutectoid ferrite or cementite; and cold-worked by abrading after annealing. The cold-worked alloys oxidize more rapidly. Annealed pearlite oxidizes faster than annealed ferrite. The differences in oxidation rate are caused by differences in the Fe3O4 grain size, that is, by the number of oxide grain boundaries available to act as easy diffusion paths for the outward diffusion of Fe through the Fe3O4. The oxidation rate constant is 10 times larger for fine-grained poly crystalline oxide than for oxide in which the Fe3O4 is monocrystalline.
Carcinoma of the adrenal gland in children

Abstract Five cases of functioning adrenocortical carcinoma in children aged 8 mo to 11 yr have been treated in Manchester since 1953. Their endocrine signs and symptoms were those of either Cushing's syndrome or virilization or both. Differentiation of these patients from those with adrenocortical carcinoma was best accomplished by means of measurement of the 24-hr urinary steroid excretion and its response to dexamethazone infusion as well as by the use of an intravenous pyelogram and an angiogram. All children were treated by surgical removal of the tumor and postoperative irradiation with careful management of their steroid balance before, during, and after operation. Four of the five are living and free of recurrence for from 1 to 12 yr after operation.
Protein deprivation and the periodontal structures of the albino rat

Abstract An experiment was conducted in the albino rat to evaluate the changes in the periodontal tissues associated with protein deprivation and to compare these changes with those observed in other areas of the skeletal system. The following changes resulted from protein deprivation: 1. a. 1.1. I. In the periodontal area, degeneration of connective tissue of the gingiva and periodontal membrane, osteoporosis of the alveolar bone, and retardation in the deposition of the cementum. 1.2. II. In the femur and vertebra, osteoporosis, marked inhibition of the endochondral and periosteal bone formation. 2. b. The changes observed in the periodontal membrane and alveolar bone were identical with those observed in the periosteum and bone in other areas of the skeletal system. 3. c. Osteoporosis in protein deprivation results from the following changes: reduced deposition of the osteoid, reduction in number of osteoblasts, and retardation in the morphodifferentiation of connective tissue cells to form osteoblasts. 4. d. Protein deprivation impedes endochondral bone formation by retarding the maturation and degeneration of cartilage cells and formation of osteoid.
Paradise recovered : energy production and waste management in island environments

In this study, we investigate the conclusions of a previous study by the authors regarding the competitiveness of waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies with data from Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico's situation matches many of the conditions laid out in the earlier study and the island is currently seeking to modernize its energy production and waste management options. Examining production and environmental costs, we find that modern pollution control technology, high-energy production costs, and limited availability of suitable landfill sites render WTE facilities an economically and environmentally attractive option for Puerto Rico. Similar results likely hold in other island environments.
Contribution to the understanding of the reaction chemistry of isobutane and neopentane over acid catalysts, I

Abstract The reaction chemistry for the cracking of neopentane was compared with that for isobutane in steady-state flow experiments over silica-alumina catalysts and HY zeolites. The activity for isobutane cracking changed only slightly as it lined out. In contrast, the neopentane reaction was self-poisoning; coking was nearly 10 times as fast as that with isobutane. In addition, the principal reaction pathway with neopentane was the primary unimolecular demethylation step forming CH 4 and C 4 hydrocarbons as products. With both substrates paraffins were formed extensively on the more active catalysts. At low conversions with isobutane this was largely due to H − transfer from the reactant; with neopentane, the surface residues furnished the required hydrogen. Further dehydroxylation of silica-alumina catalysts effected by raising the pretreatment temperatures from 500 to 650'C was found to decrease the conversion rates by about a factor of 2, suggesting that the primary reaction events are Bronsted acid catalyzed. Replacing such sites in Y-zeolites with Na + ions also drastically reduced the catalytic activity, but the observed effects resulted from changes in the strength (intensive factor) of the sites, not just from the decrease in their number (extensive factor). Interestingly, the nearly 10 2 increase in rates obtained on removing Na + was not accompanied by a change in selectivity at constant temperature when the conversion was maintained constant at 2.33% by increasing the space velocity. The effects of adding small amounts of olefins into an isobutane feed stream were also investigated. Ethene inhibited the reaction somewhat, but otherwise had little effect. Propene and isobutene additives enhanced both the conversion and paraffin formation. The way these results amplify our understanding of these simple reactions and make them more useful for catalytic studies is briefly discussed.
Island wind-hydrogen energy: A significant potential US resource

Islands offer the advantages of notional deep ocean wind stations without the problems of mounting wind turbines in a hostile marine environment. In principle, island wind-power stations could take advantage of rich (up to Class 7) wind resources. Because connection to an electricity grid will be difficult for most island-based systems, electrical energy could be converted into hydrogen (by electrolyzing seawater) and stored for use on the island or shipped to the mainland. To attain the benefits of high-speed wind-turbine systems, several technical and policy issues, dealing with wind resources, specialized wind-turbine equipment, and the political and economic potential of island wind stations, need to be addressed. Until such multifaceted research can be completed, the technical potential for island-based wind turbines will remain just that—potential.
Production function, productivities, and capacity utilization of the Port of Mobile

In this study, the author considers the problems related to the expansion of port facilities using economic theory as a basis for discussion and the Port of Mobile as an example.
Calculating intraocular lens power in eyes with keratoconus using videokeratography

A patient with keratoconus had cataract extraction and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in both eyes. The IOL power was determined using keratometric values (K-values) measured by standard keratometry in the right eye and videokeratography in the left eye. The ideal IOL power and the K-value that would have led to the ideal IOL power were determined from the postoperative refraction at 6 weeks. The ideal K-value was compared with the K-values derived from videokeratography and standard keratometry. Refraction at 6 weeks postoperatively was 5.60 and 1.00 diopter more myopic than the aim in the right and left eye, respectively. The mean power in ring 3 in videokeratography of the left eye was the same as the ideal K-value calculated using the Holladay formula. Determining IOL powers with videokeratography-derived K-values might be more accurate than standard keratometry in patients with keratoconus.
Market mavenism and consumer self‐confidence

The purpose of this study was to test hypothesized associations between market mavenism and consumer self-confidence (CSC). A survey of 190 US consumers provided the data. The results showed significant relationships between mavenism and several dimensions of CSC, and regression analysis emphasized the relationships with two of these: information acquisition (confidence in the ability to obtain and use marketplace information) and social outcomes decision making (confidence in obtaining positive reactions from others). These findings both enrich our knowledge of the psychology of market mavenism by suggesting some motivations for these behaviors and suggest marketing strategies can be fine-tuned to appeal more effectively to this important segment of consumers. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modulation of plasma cyst(e)ine by cisplatin

Abstract Some types of human malignant cells are cyst(e)ine auxotrophs. In 8 cancer patients given 10 courses of treatment cisplatin caused a mean (±S.D.) 83 ± 17% decrease in plasma cyst(e)ine when measured before and 6 hr after drug infusion. The magnitude of the decrease correlated with peak plasma cisplatin concentration, and serial measurements demonstrated that in some patients plasma cyst(e)ine was still decreasing at 6 hr . The mean 6-hr plasma cyst(e)ine was low enough (9 ± 9 μM) to prevent the proliferation of human promyelocytic (HL-60) cells in culture.
Characteristics of the tyrosine recognition signal for internalization of transmembrane surface glycoproteins

A tyrosine residue in the cytoplasmic domain of a class of cell surface receptors is necessary, but not sufficient, for internalization through coated pits. To identify the amino acid context enabling a tyrosine to serve as a signal for endocytosis, we mutated the short cytoplasmic domain of a mutant influenza virus hemagglutinin that is competent for internalization, HA-Y543, and determined the effect of each change on internalization. From these results and a comparison of sequences of other proteins recognized by coated pits, a "tyrosine internalization signal" was proposed. Site-directed mutagenesis was employed to insert complete, or incomplete "tyrosine internalization signals" into the cytoplasmic domain of a protein normally not endocytosed, human glycophorin A. Only the complete signal caused internalization of mutant glycophorins by coated pits. The signal is formed by a short amino acid sequence, with polar or basic residues preferred at certain positions on either side of the tyrosine. Amino acids, which in proteins of known structure are frequently found in turns, are clustered near the tyrosine on the side of the signal nearest the transmembrane domain.
Viscous Disk Air Flow Displacement Device (VDAFDD): Development and Performance

The development and performance of a unique viscous disk air flow displacement device (or VDAFDD) for inducing airflow in confined spaces is described. The development is motivated by electronic cooling, where limitations on space are especially severe and the need exists to circulate air over or through the key components using a compact and efficient device. To induce air motion, array of disks are employed with their axis of rotation perpendicular to the air stream. Results from the most successful prototype, which was developed and tested, prototype 2, are presented for Reynolds numbers up to 671 to illustrate nominal behavior, as well as behavior as a number of different parameters are altered, including the magnitude of exit flow restriction, the air gap above the disks, and the number of disks employed to induce air motion. Also discussed are the effects of disk rotational speed, comparisons with theoretical predictions, and one earlier prototype whose performance is significantly less than that of prototype 2.
Identification of a heat-modifiable protein of Francisella tularensis and molecular cloning of the encoding gene

Abstract As an initial step in defining the constituents of the outer surfaces of Francisella tularensis , membrane fractions were prepared, and the immunoreactivity of constituents examined by Western immunoblotting. One protein, thought to be an outer membrane protein, was found to be heat and β-mercaptoethanol (2-ME)-modifiable and was named FopA. This protein migrates at an apparent molecular weight of 34 kilodaltons (kDa) when cell extracts are solubilized below 80 °C, but migrates as a doublet of 41- to 43-kDa when cell extracts are solubilized at 95 °C. A cosmid bank was constructed and two recombinants were found to express FopA. The recombinant FopA was also heat and β-mercaptoethanol modifiable and was found to localize in the outer membrane of Escherichia coli .
Tu1993 Sexual Dysfunction in Women With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A New IBD-Specific Scale

Background Men with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may have increased sexual dysfunction. To measure the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in our male patients, we aimed to develop a new IBD-specific Male Sexual Dysfunction Scale (the IBD-MSDS). Methods We used a cross-sectional survey and enrolled male patients (N = 175) ≥18 years old who attended IBD clinics at 2 Boston hospitals. We collected information on sexual functioning via a 15-item scale. General male sexual functioning was measured using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF); the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) measured depressive symptoms. Medical history and sociodemographic information were extracted from medical record review. Exploratory factor analyses (EFA) assessed unidimensionality, factor structure, reliability, and criterion and construct validity of the 15-item scale. We used regression models to identify clinical factors associated with sexual dysfunction. Results EFA suggested retaining 10-items generating a unidimensional scale with strong internal consistency reliability, α = 0.90. Criterion validity assessed using Spearman's coefficient showing that the IBD-MSDS was significantly correlated with all the subscales of the IIEF. The IBD-MSDS was significantly correlated (construct validity) with the PHQ-9 (P < 0.001) and the composite score for active IBD cases (P < 0.05). Male sexual dysfunction in IBD was significantly associated with the presence of an ileoanal pouch anastomosis (P = 0.047), depression (P < 0.001), and increased disease activity (P = 0.021). Conclusions We have developed and validated an IBD-specific scale to assess the psychosexual impact of IBD. This new survey tool may help physicians screen for and identify factors contributing to impaired sexual functioning in their male patients.
Mold filling analysis in vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding. part I: SCRIMP based on a high-permeable medium

Mold filling in SCRIMP based on a high-permeable medium is complicated because of the considerable difference in the permeabilities of the fiber reinforcement, the peel ply and the high permeable medium. The objectives of this paper are to understand the flow mechanism through flow visualization experiments and to present models that can be used to predict the filling time and flow pattern. Permeabilities of a stitched fiber mat, a high-permeable medium and a peel ply were measured. Flow visualization of SCRIMP mold filling was carried out under various molding conditions. It was found that although the resin flowed faster in the high-permeable medium than in the fiber reinforcement, the flow front lead-lag was not very large and it remained nearly constant through the entire mold filling process. A three-dimensional Control Volume/Finite Element Method (CV/FEM) was adopted to solve the flow governing equations, i.e. the Darcy's law, and the influences of the flow properties of the high-permeable medium, the fiber reinforcement and the peel ply on filling time were investigated. Based on experimental observations and CV/FEM simulation, a simplified leakage flow model is also presented. The comparison of experimental and simulation results show good agreement.
Regulation of Tenascin Expression in Bone

Tenascins regulate cell interaction with the surrounding pericellular matrix. Within bone, tenascins C and W influence osteoblast adhesion and differentiation, although little is known about the regulation of tenascin expression. In this study we examined the effect of osteogenic differentiation, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and Wnt growth factors, and mechanical loading on tenascin expression in osteogenic cells. Osteogenic differentiation increased tenascin C (TnC), and decreased tenascin W (TnW), expression. Both growth factors and mechanical loading increased both TnC and TnW expression, albeit via distinct signaling mechanisms. Both BMP-2 and Wnt5a induction of tenascin expression were mediated by MAP kinases. These data establish a role for BMP, Wnts, and mechanical loading in the regulation of tenascin expression in osteoblasts.
An interfacial model equation for the bifurcation of solidification patterns during LPEE processes

Abstract An interfacial model equation for liquid-phase electro-epitaxy (LPEE), preserving all the important features of the more complete system, is analyzed by a variety of analytical nonlinear stability techniques and the results thus obtained compared in order to ascertain the relative advantages or disadvantages of each such method for determining its bifurcation behavior relevant to the formation of solidification patterns.
Differential effects of dexamethasone and RU 486, an antigestagen and antiglucocorticoid, on progesterone and relaxin secretion in hysterectomized pigs with aging corpora lutea

Abstract Pregnancy lasts about 114 days in pigs. Porcine corpora lutea produce not only progesterone but also relaxin (RLX), a peptide hormone that plays a critical role in suppressing uterine motility during pregnancy and in remodelling connective tissues in preparation for imminent parturition. Progesterone concentrations in peripheral blood remain elevated (≈25 ng ml −1 ) for the major part of pregnancy and decrease just before parturition. The decrease in progesterone coincides with the peak prepartum RLX release. Glucocorticoid or antiglucocorticoid steroid, RU 486, administration during late pregnancy can induce parturition in the pig. Peak release of RLX and a coincident decrease of progesterone in the circulating blood can also occur in the complete absence of fetuses and uterus in the pig. The effects of glucocorticoid or antiglucocorticosteroid administration to such hysterectomized pigs on the secretion of RLX and progesterone were examined in this experiment. Unmated Yorkshire gilts were hysterectomized on days 6–8 (estrus=day 0) and given dexamethasone (total of 30 mg day −1 ; 2 times i.m. at 0800 and 1600 h) from days 110–118; control animals received vehicle injection during this period. RU 486 (4 mg kg 1 body weight) was orally administered once daily (days 111–115) at 0800 h; placebo-treated controls were given the same amount of feed without the drug at this time. RLX concentrations in blood were markedly suppressed ( P −1 ; mean±S.E.) whereas a peak release of RLX (17±2.8 ng ml −1 ) occurred in the control group on day 113. In contrast, progesterone concentrations (14±2.5 ng ml −1 ) were unaffected by dexamethasone treatment compared with the controls (15±2.0 ng ml −1 ; P >0.82). Upon withdrawal of dexamethasone on day 118, RLX plasma concentrations began to increase and peaked at 14±2.1 ng ml −1 ( P P >0.68). Results indicate that a synthetic glucocorticoid, dexamethasone, suppresses RLX secretion without causing luteolysis and such suppression is reversible; progesterone secretion remained unaffected. In contrast, the antiglucocorticoid, RU 486, raised progesterone plasma concentration and delayed RLX peak release but did not suppress it during treatment. This experiment provides further evidence that relaxin and progesterone secretion from aging corpora lutea of pigs are regulated through separate mechanisms, and adrenal glucocorticoids may be involved in such a regulation process.
Heme-protein covalent bonds in peroxidases and resistance to heme modification during halide oxidation.

Abstract Plant peroxidases, as typified by horseradish peroxidase (HRP), primarily catalyze the one-electron oxidation of phenols and other low oxidation potential substrates. In contrast, the mammalian homologues such as lactoperoxidase (LPO) and myeloperoxidase primarily oxidize halides and pseudohalides to the corresponding hypohalides (e.g., Br− to HOBr, Cl− to HOCl). A further feature that distinguishes the mammalian from the plant and fungal enzymes is the presence of two or more covalent bonds between the heme and the protein only in the mammalian enzymes. The functional roles of these covalent links in mammalian peroxidases remain uncertain. We have previously reported that HRP can oxidize chloride and bromide ions, but during oxidation of these ions undergoes autocatalytic modification of its heme vinyl groups that virtually inactivates the enzyme. We report here that autocatalytic heme modification during halide oxidation is not unique to HRP but is a general feature of the oxidation of halide ions by fungal and plant peroxidases, as illustrated by studies with Arthromyces ramosus and soybean peroxidases. In contrast, LPO, a prototypical mammalian peroxidase, is protected from heme modification and its heme remains intact during the oxidation of halide ions. These results support the hypothesis that the covalent heme-protein links in the mammalian peroxidases protect the heme from modification during the oxidation of halide ions.
Theoretical study of HSiO/+/ and HOSi/+/

Results are reported for quantum-mechanical studies of the ions HSiO(+) and HOSi(+). The equilibrium geometries, rotation constants, and relative stabilities of these ions are determined using the matrix Hartree-Fock model with a basis set of Slater exponential functions. Optimum bond lengths are calculated, and an empirical correction to the computed bond lengths is introduced. The isomer HOSi(+) is found to be more stable than HSiO(+). A frequency of 35.77 GHz is obtained for the J = 1-0 transition of HOSi(+) by assuming that the vibration-rotation interaction constants for this isomer are the same as those for HCP.
Hybrid Anion and Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

A novel hybrid fuel cell is described using at least one electrode operating at high pH in an effort to use the high conductivity of Nafion and exploit the electrochemical advantages of high-pH operation. The electrochemical behavior of a hybrid anion exchange membrane (AEM)/proton exchange membrane (PEM) junction and corresponding fuel cell are presented. Two AEM/PEM junctions and fuel cells have been evaluated: AEM anode/PEM cathode and PEM anode/AEM cathode. The AEM cathode/PEM membrane configuration causes proton−hydroxide recombination at the membrane junction, resulting in self-hydration of the membrane. The fuel cell performance improves at lower relative humidity. At 65 °C and 0% relative humidity, the hybrid cell operates at steady state whereas the performance of a conventional PEM cell decreases with time due to dry-out.
Comparison of the diamond-forrester method and duke clinical score to predict obstructive coronary artery disease by computed tomographic angiography

We sought to evaluate the ability of the Diamond and Forrester method (DFM) and the Duke Clinical Score (DCS) to predict obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) on coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) and the effect of these different risk scores on the appropriateness level using the 2010 Appropriate Use Criteria. Consecutive symptomatic patients who underwent CCTA for evaluation of CAD (n = 114) were classified as having a low, intermediate, or high pretest probability using the DFM and DCS. Using the Appropriate Use Criteria, the indications for CCTA were classified according to the pretest probability and previous testing. The CCTA results were classified as revealing obstructive (≥70% stenosis), nonobstructive (<70%), or no CAD. When the patients' risk was classified using the DFM, 18% were low, 65% intermediate, and 17% high risk. When using the DCS, 53% of patients had a reclassification of their risk, most of whom changed from intermediate to either low or high risk (50% low, 19% intermediate, 35% high risk). The net reclassification improvement for the prediction of obstructive CAD was 51% (p = 0.01). Of the 37 patients who were reclassified as low risk, 36 (97%) lacked obstructive CAD. Appropriateness for CCTA was reclassified for 13% of patients when using the DCS instead of the DFM, and the number of appropriate examinations was significantly fewer (68% vs 55%, p <0.001). In conclusion, reclassification of risk using the DCS instead of the DFM resulted in improved prediction of obstructive CAD on CCTA, especially in low-risk patients. More patients were categorized as having a high pretest probability of CAD, resulting in reclassification of their examination indications as uncertain or inappropriate. These results identify the need for improved pretest risk scores for noninvasive tests such as CCTA and suggest that the method of risk assessment could have important implications for patient selection and quality assurance programs.
Effects of thyroid hormones on amino acid and protein metabolism--IV. Effects of thyroid hormone on amino acid concentration and incorporation of [14C]L-valine in vivo and in vitro into proteins of the guinea-pig.

Abstract 1. 1. Total free amino acid concentration and the incorporation of [14C] l -valine in vivo and in vitro into protein fraction of the guinea-pigs in various thyroid hormone states were measured. 2. 2. No significant differences among normal. 131I-pretreated and T3-injected guinea-pigs in total protein concentration per ml of plasma and per mg of wet tissue of the liver, kidney, heart, spleen and brain were observed. 3. 3. The injection of T3 significantly decreased the incorporation of [14C] l -valine in vivo into plasma proteins. 131I-pretreatment did not elicit any significant change. Radioactivity in the nonprotein fraction was found to be the same in all cases. 4. 4. The 131I-pretreatment and T3-injection did not cause any significant change in the incorporation of [14C]valine in vivo into proteins of the liver, kidney, heart, spleen and brain. Radioactivity detected in the nonprotein fraction of the tissues was also found to be unchanged. 5. 5. Radioactivity detected in the protein and nonprotein fractions of nuclei, mitochondria, lysosomes, microsomes or cytosol was not altered by varying the thyroid hormone status. 6. 6. Radioactivity detected in the submitochondrial protein fractions of hepatic mitochondria after injection of [14C]valine was found to be equal among normal. 131I-pretreated and T3-injected guinea-pigs. 7. 7. The injection of T3 or T4 and I-pretreatment caused a significant decrease in the total free amino acid concentration in plasma of normal guinea-pigs. No changes were seen in the tissues. 8. 8. The incorporation of [14C]valine in vitro into the protein fraction of mitochondria, microsome plus cytosol and homogenate of the liver from normal and T4-injected normal guinea-pigs were the same. 9. 9. The addition of T4 (1 or 10 gmM) into the reaction mixture caused a significant decrease in [14C]valine incorporation into the microsome plus cytosol proteins, but no such effect was seen when mitochondria were used.
Genetic alteration of nerve membrane excitability in temperature-sensitive paralytic mutants of Drosophila melanogaster

Single mutations that disrupt basic physiological processes such as axonal conduction and synaptic transmission provide one means to study the membrane components and mechanisms that underlie these processes1,8. Temperature-sensitive paralytic mutants of Drosophila melanogaster which behave normally at a permissive temperature (23–25 °C) but become paralysed at a restrictive temperature (usually 29–37 °C) have been utilized in such studies. An example is napts (no action potential, temperature-sensitive), a recessive second-chromosome mutation that causes paralysis of larvae and adults at 37 °C. Electrophysiological recordings have demonstrated that napts specifically affects a component of axonal membranes5. Here we show that axonal conduction in napts larvae is abnormally sensitive to tetrodotoxin (TTX), a specific blocker of voltage-sensitive sodium channels9, and that the refractory period of action potentials differs from wild type, consistent with the idea that napts alters the function of sodium channels. It is further shown that parats (paralysed, temperature-sensitive), a recessive X-linked mutation1, also specifically disrupts axonal conduction and that the two mutations affect functionally related membrane components. Identification of other mutants defective in associated components of nerve membranes is made feasible by using techniques described here.
Energy-Efficient Distributed Detection Via Multihop Transmission in Sensor Networks

We investigate three multihop fusion schemes for distributed detection in geographically dispersed sensor networks, multihop forwarding (MF) and Log-likelihood ratio Fusion (LF), which are different in the transmitted messages, fusion rules, and communication structure. Simulation results show that transmission energy is significantly reduced by multihop fusion schemes as compared to direct transmission, with LF outperforming the others. Moreover, it is shown that LF exhibits the most favorable energy scaling law with the network size among these schemes.
Fluorometric Determination of Urinary Metanephrine and Normetanephrine

A detailed procedure for the quantitative determination of metanephrine and normetanephrine is given. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are eliminated by selective adsorption on an alumina column. Metanephrine and normetanephrine are isolated with a cation-exchange resin. Fluorescence is developed by a two-step ferricyanide oxidation at two different pH values followed by tautomerization. The concentrations of both metanephrine and normetanephrine are quantitated by differential fluorometry.
The Influence of Motor Processes on Attitudes Toward Novel Versus Familiar Semantic Stimuli

Recent research has suggested that the motor processes elicited by upper arm isometric flexion and extension can subtly influence attitudes. Specifically, ideographs evaluatively categorized while performing isometric upper arm flexion were subsequently preferred to ideographs evaluatively categorized while performing isometric upper arm extension. The present research sought to replicate this attitudinal effect with semantic stimuli and to examine a theoretical boundary condition posited by the elaboration likelihood model (ELM). Subjects categorized either neutral words or pronounceable nonwords while adopting the isometric positions. Results indicated that motor processes influenced subsequent attitudes toward stimuli with few associations (i.e., nonwords) more than toward stimuli with many associations in memory (i.e., familiar words). These results are consistent with a growing literature on the possible influence of nondeclarative (e.g., procedural) knowledge on attitudes.
CD4(+) (and not CD25+) T cells are the predominant interleukin-10-producing cells in the circulation of filaria-infected patients.

BACKGROUND Interleukin (IL)-10 plays an important role in down-regulating the immune response to filarial parasites. The goal of this study was to characterize the predominant cellular source of IL-10 in human filarial infections. METHODS Multicolor flow cytometry was used to determine the frequencies of IL-10 production from various lymphocyte populations in the circulation of 23 patients with filarial infections and 8 uninfected control subjects. RESULTS The frequencies of cells spontaneously producing IL-10 was significantly greater in filaria-infected patients than in uninfected control subjects (geometric mean, 93 vs. 18 IL-10-producing cells/100,000 peripheral blood mononuclear cells; P = .03). Most IL-10-producing cells in filaria-infected patients were T cells, with CD4(+) and CD8(+) cells accounting for 48% and 27%, respectively, of all IL-10-producing cells; CD19(+) B cells, CD14(+) monocytes, and CD56(+) NK cells accounted for 10%, 8%, and 7%, respectively. Surprisingly, only 12% of the IL-10-producing CD3(+)CD4(+) cells were CD25(+). Seventy-seven percent of IL-10-producing CD4(+) T cells stained negatively for both IL-4 and interferon (IFN)-gamma, 22% were positive for IL-4, and <1% were positive for IFN-gamma. CONCLUSIONS These experiments demonstrate that the most frequent producers of IL-10 in human filarial infections are CD4(+) T cells, many of which are skewed toward a type 2 phenotype and most of which are not CD25(+).
TMPRSS2-ERG-mediated feed-forward regulation of wild-type ERG in human prostate cancers

Recurrent gene fusions involving ETS family genes are a distinguishing feature of human prostate cancers, with TMPRSS2-ERG fusions representing the most common subtype. The TMPRSS2-ERG fusion transcript and its splice variants are well characterized in prostate cancers, however not much is known about the levels and regulation of wild-type ERG. By employing an integrative approach, we demonstrate that the TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion product binds to the ERG locus and drives the over-expression of wild-type ERG in prostate cancers. Knock-down of TMPRSS2-ERG in VCaP cells resulted in the down regulation of wild-type ERG transcription, while stable over-expression of TMPRSS2-ERG in the gene fusion-negative PC3 cells was associated with the up-regulation of wild-type ERG transcript. Further, androgen signaling-mediated up-regulation of TMPRSS2-ERG resulted in the concomitant up-regulation of wild-type ERG transcription in VCaP cells. The loss of wild-type ERG expression was associated with a decrease in the invasive potential of VCaP cells. Importantly, 38% of clinically localized prostate cancers and 27% of metastatic prostate cancers harboring the TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusions exhibited over-expression of wild-type ERG. Taken together, these results provide novel insights into the regulation of ERG in human prostate cancers.
Claude E. Shannon: a retrospective on his life, work, and impact

Claude E. Shannon (1948) invented information theory and provided the concepts, insights, and mathematical formulations that now form the basis for modern communication technology. In a surprisingly large number of ways, he enabled the information age. A major part of this influence comes from his two-part monumental 1948 paper, "A Mathematical Theory of Communication." We attempt here to provide some clues as to how a single person could have such a major impact. We first describe Shannon's life and then study his publications in the communication area. We next consider his research style in the context of these publications. Finally, we consider the process under which the impact of his work evolved from the creation of a beautiful and challenging theory to the establishment of the central principles guiding digital communication technology. We end with some reflections on the research environment that stimulates such work both then and now.