cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Roles of cholecystokinin receptor phosphorylation in agonist-stimulated desensitization of pancreatic acinar cells and receptor-bearing Chinese hamster ovary cholecystokinin receptor cells

Receptor phosphorylation has been implicated in desensitization responses to some agonist ligands, in which receptors may become uncoupled from G proteins and move into cellular compartments inaccessible to hydrophilic ligands. Understanding of the linkage between these processes, however, has come largely from recombinant receptor-bearing cell systems with consensus sites of kinase action mutagenized. We recently established methodology permitting direct assessment of sites of phosphorylation of the cholecystokinin receptor (CCKR) in its native milieu in the pancreatic acinar cell and in a Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)–CCKR cell line (1, 2). Although CCK binding leads to phosphorylation of serine residues within the third intracellular loop of the receptor in both cell types, there are clear differences in the time course of phosphorylation, in the balance of action of kinases and a receptor phosphatase, and in a few of the distinct sites phosphorylated. In this work, we have directly assessed the inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate responses to CCK and desensitization of these responses in both cells. CHO cell lines expressing receptor mutants with protein kinase C consensus sites modified were also studied. CCK-stimulated inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate responses in both cells expressing wild-type receptors were rapidly and completely desensitized, associated with the onset of receptor phosphorylation. However, despite maintenance of the phosphorylated state of the receptor in the CHO-CCKR cell and its dephosphorylation returning the receptor to its basal state in the acinar cell, desensitization continued to be present in both. Mutagenesis of Ser260 and Ser264 to alanines individually reduced receptor phosphorylation by approximately 50%, whereas the dual mutant completely eliminated agonist-stimulated phosphorylation. Because other sites of phosphorylation were still intact in this construct, this raises the possibility of hierarchical phosphorylation with these two sites key in making other sites accessible to kinases. Constructs modifying Ser264 delayed the onset of desensitization, whereas all constructs proceeded to achieve complete desensitization by 10 min. Receptor internalization occurred independent of its phosphorylation state in the CHO cell lines, explaining the desensitization observed. In the acinar cell in which the receptor remains on the cell surface after agonist occupation, we postulate that receptor insulation achieves similar uncoupling from G protein association as is achieved by receptor phosphorylation early after agonist occupation.
Modeling the effects of climate engineering

In their Policy Forum “Opportunities for advances in climate change economics” (15 April, p. [292][1]), M. Burke et al. highlight three areas of climate change economics research: social cost of carbon, climate policy impacts, and developing economies. They overlook an important avenue of
Routine high-precision analysis of triple water-isotope ratios using cavity ring-down spectroscopy.

Rationale Water isotope analysis for δ(2) H and δ(18) O values via laser spectroscopy is routine for many laboratories. While recent work has added the δ(17) O value to the high-precision suite, it does not follow that researchers will routinely obtain high precision (17) O excess (Δ(17) O). We demonstrate the routine acquisition of high-precision δ(2) H, δ(17) O, δ(18) O, d, and Δ(17) O values using a commercially available laser spectroscopy instrument. Methods We use a Picarro L2140-i cavity ring-down spectroscopy analyzer with discrete liquid injections into an A0211 vaporization module by a Leap Technologies LC PAL autosampler. The instrument is run in two modes: (1) as recommended by the manufacturer (default mode) and (2) after modifying select default settings and using alternative data types (advanced mode). Reference waters analyzed over the course of 15 months while running unknown samples are used to assess system performance. Results The default mode provides precision for δ(2) H, δ(17) O, δ(18) O, d, and Δ(17) O values that may be sufficient for many applications. When using the advanced mode, we reach a higher level of precision for δ(2) H, δ(17) O, δ(18) O, d, and Δ(17) O values (0.4 mUr, 0.04 mUr, 0.07 mUr, 0.5 mUr, and 8 μUr, respectively, where mUr = 0.001 = ‰, and μUr = 10(-6) ) in a shorter amount of time and with fewer syringe actuations than in the default mode. The improved performance results from an increase in the total integration time for each injected water pulse. Conclusions Our recommended approach for routine δ(2) H, δ(17) O, δ(18) O, d and Δ(17) O measurements with the Picarro L2140-i is to make use of conditioning vials, use fewer injections (5 per vial) with greater pulse duration (520 seconds (s) per injection) and use only the first 120 s for δ(2) H measurements and all 520 s for δ(17) O and δ(18) O measurements. Although the sample throughput is 10 unknowns per day, our optimal approach reduces the number of syringe actuations, the effect of memory, and the total analysis time, while improving precision relative to the default approach. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Managed European-Derived Honey Bee, Apis mellifera sspp, Colonies Reduce African-Matriline Honey Bee, A. m. scutellata, Drones at Regional Mating Congregations.

African honey bees (Apis mellifera scutellata) dramatically changed the South American beekeeping industry as they rapidly spread through the Americas following their introduction into Brazil. In the present study, we aimed to determine if the management of European-derived honey bees (A. mellifera sspp.) could reduce the relative abundance of African-matriline drones at regional mating sites known as drone congregation areas (DCAs). We collected 2,400 drones at six DCAs either 0.25 km or >2.8 km from managed European-derived honey bee apiaries. The maternal ancestry of each drone was determined by Bgl II enzyme digestion of an amplified portion of the mitochondrial Cytochrome b gene. Furthermore, sibship reconstruction via nuclear microsatellites was conducted for a subset of 1,200 drones to estimate the number of colonies contributing drones to each DCA. Results indicate that DCAs distant to managed European apiaries (>2.8 km) had significantly more African−matriline drones (34.33% of the collected drones had African mitochondrial DNA) than did DCAs close (0.25 km) to managed European apiaries (1.83% of the collected drones had African mitochondrial DNA). Furthermore, nuclear sibship reconstruction demonstrated that the reduction in the proportion of African matriline drones at DCAs near apiaries was not simply an increase in the number of European matriline drones at the DCAs but also the result of fewer African matriline colonies contributing drones to the DCAs. Our data demonstrate that the management of European honey bee colonies can dramatically influence the proportion of drones with African matrilines at nearby drone congregation areas, and would likely decreasing the probability that virgin European queens will mate with African drones at those drone congregation areas.
Carbon isotope discrimination and salt tolerance of rice genotypes

Rice genotypes were evaluated for salt tolerance in a greenhouse based upon stable carbon isotope analysis under salt stress (EC = 8 dSm−1) and non-stressed (1 dSm−1) conditions. Ten seedlings from each replicate and genotype were randomly sampled at 25 or 33 days after sowing (DAS). Values for carbon isotope discrimination (A) were obtained from dried and homogenized seedling tissue of twelve genotypes. Rice genotypes were ranked from high to low salt tolerance based on whole plant average maximum A of these two salt levels at these two early growth stages. Differences in fractionation among genotypes were observed at 25 and 33 DAS. Fractionation effects of salinity stress on A were significantly different among genotypes at 33 DAS, but not at 25 DAS. The salt tolerant cultivar maintained significantly higher average flag leaf tissue A than did the sensitive cultivar. Flag leaves of salt stressed rice maintained higher A than predicted for these two genotypes based a theoretical A value. The lack of greater reductions in leaf tissue A of salt stressed rice genotypes may the result of an increased contribution of respired carbon to the total carbon budget of rice leaves.
Reversing the Regioselectivity of Halofunctionalization Reactions through Cooperative Photoredox and Copper Catalysis

Halofunctionalization of alkenes is a classical method for olefin difunctionalization. It gives rise to adducts which are found in many natural products and biologically active molecules, and offers a synthetic handle for further manipulation. Classically, this reaction is performed with an electrophilic halogen source and leads to regioselective formation of the halofunctionalized adducts. Herein, we demonstrate a reversal of the native regioselectivity for alkene halofunctionalization through the use of an acridinium photooxidant in conjunction with a copper cocatalyst.
A Comparison Of The Performance Limit Of Schottky Barrier And Standard Infrared Focal Plane Arrays

In this paper D* is introduced, and analyzed as a figure of merit for focal plane arrays. Some of the inadequacies of D* are presented, and used to motivate the use of the signal to noise ratio as a figure of merit. Spatial noise (nonuniformity) is incorporated into the signal to noise ratio and its effects are examained for the cases of a Schottky barrier, and standard photon detector (constant quantum efficiency) over the 3 to 5 μm spectral band.
Fundamental Understanding and Rational Design of High Energy Structural Microbatteries

Abstract Microbatteries play a critical role in determining the lifetime of downsized sensors, wearable devices, medical applications, and animal acoustic telemetry transmitters among others. More often, structural batteries are required from the perspective of aesthetics and space utilization, which is however rarely explored. Herein, we discuss the fundamental issues associated with the rational design of practically usable high energy microbatteries. The tubular shape of the cell further allows the flexible integration of microelectronics. A functioning acoustic micro-transmitter continuously powered by this tubular battery has been successfully demonstrated. Multiple design features adopted to accommodate large mechanical stress during the rolling process are discussed providing new insights in designing the structural microbatteries for emerging technologies.
'We'- A Robotic System to Extend Social Impact of Community Gardens

The social, educational, economic and health benefits from community gardens often stay limited to the gardeners. 'We' is a community-oriented robotic system designed to extend such benefits to the public and community. It consists of 1. 'We-Sense,' garden sensors that encourage community participation, and 2. 'We-Grow,' a responsive installation that reflects the state of and allows to explore the garden and its social life. 'We' aims to provide awareness about the community gardens in public spaces, to increase public literacy about food and community gardening, provide out-of-class education, encourage participation in citizen science and increase community engagement.
A Helicene Nanoribbon with Greatly Amplified Chirality

We report the synthesis and characterization of a chiral, shape-persistent, perylene-diimide-based nanoribbon. Specifically, the fusion of three perylene-diimide monomers with intervening naphthalene subunits resulted in a helical superstructure with two [6]helicene subcomponents. This π-helix-of-helicenes exhibits very intense electronic circular dichroism, including one of the largest Cotton effects ever observed in the visible range. It also displays more than an order of magnitude increase in circular dichroism for select wavelengths relative to its smaller homologue. These impressive chiroptical properties underscore the potential of this new nanoribbon architecture in the context of chiral electronic materials.
An optimization algorithm for evaluation of kinetic parameters for crude oil combustion

Abstract The design of enhanced oil recovery processes that employ in-situ combustion requires high-fidelity simulation models that accurately describe the physics and chemistry of reactive, exothermic multiphase fluid flow. Therefore, a detailed description of oil combustion kinetics is required. The goal of this work is to present and apply a workflow to define and match pseudo-kinetic reaction models based on Arrhenius kinetics. These models are meant to be used at the laboratory scale with high-resolution, fully-resolved simulation models as a tool to generate high density data required by upscaled models at reservoir scale. The workflow starts by performing ramped temperature oxidation (RTO) experiments for a wide range of heating rates. New experimental equipment has allowed us to obtain data for large heating rates ( > 15 ° C m i n ) that were not achievable in the past. A subset of the experiments are selected to match the oxygen consumption curves by tuning kinetic parameters of several global reaction models using pattern search optimization. Those models that obtain a match are validated by predicting a second subset of the data that was not considered during the optimization. The workflow is tested using a heavy oil and two satisfactory matches with two different global reaction models are obtained.
Diffusion of antibiotics in intervertebral disc

Abstract Delivering charged antibiotics to the intervertebral disc is challenging because of the avascular, negatively charged extracellular matrix (ECM) of the tissue. The purpose of this study was to measure the apparent diffusion coefficient of two clinically relevant, charged antibiotics, vancomycin (positively charged) and oxacillin (negatively charged) in IVD. A one-dimensional steady state diffusion experiment was employed to measure the apparent diffusion coefficient of the two antibiotics in bovine coccygeal annulus fibrosus (AF) tissue. The averaged apparent diffusion coefficient for vancomycin under 20% compressive strain was 7.94 ± 2.00 × 10−12 m2/s (n = 10), while that of oxacillin was 2.26 ± 0.68 × 10−10 m2/s (n = 10). A student’s t-test showed that the diffusivity of vancomycin was significantly lower than that of oxacillin. This finding may be attributed to two factors: solute size and possible binding effects. Vancomycin is approximately 3 times larger in molecular weight than oxacillin, meaning that steric hindrance likely plays a role in the slower transport. Reversible binding between positive vancomycin and the negative ECM could also slow down the rate of diffusion. Therefore, more investigation is necessary to determine the specific relationship between net charge on antibiotic and diffusion coefficients in IVD. This study provides essential quantitative information regarding the transport rates of antibiotics in the IVD, which is critical in using computational modeling to design effective strategies to treat disc infection.
Defining Work Analysis

The first chapter introduces work analysis as a critical part of human resource development (HRD) practice, especially with the emergence of knowledge work. The chapter defines work analysis as having two major components: first, to document the work that people do and, second, to understand the characteristics of the most successful people who perform a set of work. The techniques related to these two components are presented in the chapter. These two components are combined here for the first time since they reflect the challenges of contemporary HRD practice. The chapter also provides a historical context for understanding work analysis, starting with the early part of the twentieth-century Industrial Age. Finally, the chapter defines the basic terms that will be used throughout the book.
The New Nuclear Disorder: Challenges to Deterrence and Strategy

In the twenty-first century, the United States confronts an international system of great complexity and shifting security challenges. Among these challenges are those posed by nuclear weapons. Instead of becoming obsolete or being marginalized by the end of the Cold War and the demise of the Soviet Union, nuclear weapons have become more important to present and future international stability and peace but the relationship is paradoxical. On one hand, the spread of nuclear weapons to additional states with unsettled grievances or hegemonic ambitions threatens to destabilize local balances of power and set off regional arms races. In addition, the possible acquisition by terrorists of nuclear weapons or fissile materials creates a threat that may be ’beyond deterrence’ according to hitherto accepted concepts. On the other hand, nuclear weapons in the hands of other states can contribute to stable deterrence and help to prevent nuclear proliferation to international miscreants. Certain cases loom large in the short run that highlight this book’s relevance, including the possible acquisition and deployment of nuclear weapons by Iran and the continuing tensions created by North Korea’s nuclear arsenal. The Obama ’pivot’ of national security and defense emphasis to Asia reflects not only the growing economic importance of that region, but also the growing number of security dilemmas in a region that is already awash in nuclear forces. The management of nuclear crises and even the possible need to terminate nuclear wars before they expand beyond a single region are among the possible challenges facing future U.S. and allied policy makers and military leaders.
The analysis of factors affecting the response time required for inter-hospital transfer of critically ill pediatric patients

Objective To evaluate the mode of referral by response time for inter-hospital transfer of critically ill pediatric patients,and subsequently some measures taken for minimizing the response time in referral process.Methods A total of 9231 patients (≤14 years) transferred from primary hospital were included in a cross-section study.Information about age,sex,referral radius,the seasonal variation for inter-hospital transport of critically ill pediatric patients,time of referral telephone call and response time were collected.All computations were performed using the Statistic Package for Social Sciences for Windows version 18.0.Differences between groups were assessed by x2 tests or Wilcoxon test or Kruskal-Wallis for categorical data.Results Among all critically ill pediatric patients for the inter-hospital transfer,male to female ratio was 2.24:1,and the majority of patients were neonates and infants.Median retrieval mobilization time was 30 min (interquartile range,20-50 min).This study has demonstrated that referral time,age categories,referral radius,different years and seasons were associated with response time.Conclusions With the improvement of technologies and management mechanism,the response time was apparently minimized since the beginning of interhospital transportation.But there is still plenty of room for shortening rsponse time compared with advanced Westem countries. Key words: Interhospital transportation; Critically ill pediatric patients; Response time
An iterative approach converting extinction enhancement from water uptake to physical growth factor for clay aerosol and the effect of refractive index

Mineral dust aerosol is present throughout the atmosphere, though the climate impact of this aerosol type is still not well known. One of many factors that contributes to this uncertainty is how wa...
Nursing Monitoring of Microsurgical Free Flaps: Identifying and Addressing Knowledge Gaps

Background Microsurgical free flaps require careful monitoring to detect early signs of compromise. At many hospitals, nursing staff provides the majority of postoperative monitoring of free flap patients and it lies within their responsibility to alert physicians of a failing free flap. The aim of this study is to identify knowledge gaps in the monitoring of microvascular free tissue transfer in both novice and experienced nurses and to provide appropriate education to address these gaps. Methods This was a pre- and postintervention study. An initial pilot survey was administered to identify knowledge deficiencies. A nursing educational session on free flap physiology and monitoring was then designed to address these deficiencies. An 18-question multiple choice quiz was administered before and after the educational session. Pre- and post-test scores were compared based on nursing experience. At 6 months, the participating nurses completed a survey rating their confidence with free flap patient care as a result of the educational session. Results A total of 72 nurses completed the in-service training course and quiz. The average quiz score increased from 61.9 to 89.3% after the in-service (p < 0.001). There was no correlation between precurriculum test scores and nursing experience as referenced by total number of years in the profession (r s = –0.038, p = 0.754). The follow-up survey showed that prior to the course 38% of respondents reported little or no confidence caring for free flap patients, decreasing to 6% after the course (p Conclusion Based on the results of this study, nursing knowledge of capillary refill, venous congestion, and basic microsurgical free flap physiology is inadequate. With implementation of a teaching in-service curriculum highlighting these key areas of deficiencies, nurses improved both their understanding and confidence levels, regardless of their level of experience.
Principal Cause of Poor Visual Acuity after Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 Report Number 23.

Purpose To analyze the principal cause for poor vision in eyes with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/200 or worse 2 years after neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Design Prospective cohort study of participants enrolled in a clinical trial of oral supplements. Participants Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) participants whose eyes began anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy for incident nAMD and had data available at 2 years. Methods Participants underwent refracted BCVA testing, ophthalmoscopic examination, and fundus photography at baseline and annual visits. Self-reports of anti-VEGF injections were collected. Main Outcome Measures Principal cause of BCVA of 20/200 or worse at 2 years, detected on fundus photography grading. Results Of the 594 eligible eyes, the number with BCVA of 20/200 or worse at 2 years was 56 (9.4%). Mean BCVA was 14.9 letters (standard deviation [SD], 12.3 letters; Snellen equivalent, 20/500), versus 70.1 letters (SD, 12.8 letters; Snellen equivalent, 20/40) in the other group. Of the 55 eyes with fundus photography available at 2 years, 33 (60.0%) had central macular atrophy and 22 (40.0%) had central subretinal fibrosis assessed as the principal cause for poor vision. The group with poor BCVA had a higher proportion of non-White participants (8.9% vs. 1.7%; P = 0.006), lower BCVA 2 years earlier (mean, 38.0 letters [SD, 26.7 letters; Snellen equivalent, 20/160] vs. 71.8 letters (SD, 11.9 letters; Snellen equivalent, 20/40]; P Conclusions Visual acuity data and fundus photography were obtained in a clinical trial environment, but were related to anti-VEGF therapy given in routine clinical practice. At 2 years after starting anti-VEGF therapy, almost 1 in 10 eyes showed BCVA at the level of legal blindness. From fundus photography grading, the cause of poor vision appeared to be macular atrophy in 60% and subretinal fibrosis in 40%. These data may be useful in understanding the long-term limits to good vision in nAMD.
Specimens of opportunity provide vital information for research and conservation regarding elusive whale species

Elusive species are challenging to study and conserve because basic elements of their biology may be unknown. Specimens of opportunity provide a means of collecting information on these species and may be critical for elusive species’ conservation. We used snowball sampling to identify Sowerby’s beaked whale (Mesoplodon bidens) specimens in museums and research institutions. Snowball sampling proved highly effective: we located 180 specimens from 24 institutions in North America and Europe, 62 of which were not listed in online collections databases, resulting in the largest collated dataset for this species. Analysis of these data resulted in several new findings for this species, including significant morphological variation between specimens from different collection regions, suggesting the presence of previously unidentified population structuring in this species. These data provide critical information regarding this species and demonstrate the effectiveness of specimens of opportunity for elusive species research and conservation. We recommend other researchers consider snowball sampling when designing research projects utilizing specimens of opportunity. Our results demonstrate the usefulness of snowball sampling and specimens of opportunity to elusive species research and conservation, and the methods of our study can be readily adapted for other species.
Validity evidence for a novel instrument assessing medical student attitudes toward instruction in implicit bias recognition and management

Implicit bias instruction is becoming more prevalent in health professions education, with calls for skills-based curricula moving from awareness and recognition to management of implicit bias. Evidence suggests that health professionals and students learning about implicit bias (“learners”) have varying attitudes about instruction in implicit bias, including the concept of implicit bias itself. Assessing learner attitudes could inform curriculum development and enable instructional designs that optimize learner engagement. To date, there are no instruments with evidence for construct validity that assess learner attitudes about implicit bias instruction and its relevance to clinical care. The authors developed a novel instrument, the Attitude Towards Implicit Bias Instrument (ATIBI) and gathered evidence for three types of construct validity- content, internal consistency, and relationship to other variables. Authors utilized a modified Delphi technique with an interprofessional team of experts, as well as cognitive interviews with medical students leading to item refinement to improve content validity. Seven cohorts of medical students, N = 1072 completed the ATIBI. Psychometric analysis demonstrated high internal consistency (α = 0.90). Exploratory factor analysis resulted in five factors. Analysis of a subset of 100 medical students demonstrated a moderate correlation with similar instruments, the Integrative Medicine Attitude Questionnaire (r = 0.63, 95% CI: [0.59, 0.66]) and the Internal Motivation to Respond Without Prejudice Scale (r = 0.36, 95% CI: [0.32, 0.40]), providing evidence for convergent validity. Scores on our instrument had low correlation to the External Motivation to Respond Without Prejudice Scale (r = 0.15, 95% CI: [0.09, 0.19]) and the Groningen Reflection Ability Scale (r = 0.12, 95% CI: [0.06, 0.17]) providing evidence for discriminant validity. Analysis resulted in eighteen items in the final instrument; it is easy to administer, both on paper form and online. The Attitudes Toward Implicit Bias Instrument is a novel instrument that produces reliable and valid scores and may be used to measure medical student attitudes related to implicit bias recognition and management, including attitudes toward acceptance of bias in oneself, implicit bias instruction, and its relevance to clinical care.
Stroke patient monitoring used in adult emergency department during COVID-19 acting both rapidly and safely

Introduction: The healthcare system was facing two challenges: acute patients presenting to the adult emergency department diagnosed with Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV- 2)/ COVID-19 and how to treat life-threating emergencies. Emergency, neurovascular and multidisciplinary teams, therefore, had to be ready to treat these emergencies rapidly and safely. The goals were to balance substantial needs and preserve resources during this extraordinary time for incoming acutely ill patients. Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) defined COVID-19 as a pandemic. New York City was the epicenter for the 2019-2020 COVID -19 pandemic. There were 30,000 confirmed cases resulting in over 2,500 hospitalizations as of March 30, 2020. Hence, it was vital to develop new monitoring protocols, based upon the expert opinion of the stroke and multidisciplinary leadership at New York Presbyterian Hospital that required minimum monitoring and criteria for admission necessary to safely care for complex stroke patients. Purpose: This quality improvement project evaluated patient outcomes after the implementation of the modified stroke protocol. Methods: Retrospective data review was conducted for patients who presented via the Emergency Department with stroke symptoms, and were treated with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) between 3/30 and 6/30/2020, with a focus on whether patients required a higher level of care or developed hemorrhagic transformation post IVT. Results: The sample consisted of 10 patients (60% female), median age 54 (range 37-73). Length of stay ranged from 2 to 12 days. Two patients (20%) were SARS-CoV-2 positive. None (0%) of the patients developed hemorrhagic transformation. None (0%) of the patients admitted to non-ICU units required critical care transfer or interventions within 24 hours of receiving IVT. Six (60%) patients were discharged to home. Conclusions: Using the modified patient monitoring protocol post IVT none of the patients developed symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation and did not require transfer to higher level of care within 24 hours. If there is another wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, this protocol could be adopted and its effectiveness and safety can continue to be evaluated.
Spatial Amplitude and Phase Control with High-Efficiency Meta-optics

Spatial amplitude and phase control across an optical wavefront with high efficiency is demonstrated using all-dielectric paired-metasurface devices. Experimental results of meta-optics forming three-dimensional holograms are reported.
Strong gun laws are not enough: the need for improved enforcement of secondhand gun transfer laws in Massachusetts.

Abstract Objective Research suggests that an overwhelming majority of crime guns were transferred by private sellers before recovery by law enforcement. Unfortunately, most states do not regulate these transactions. This study examines whether analyses of state-level private transfer data could be used to develop interventions to reduce the supply of handguns to violent criminals. Methods Traced Boston crime handguns first sold at Massachusetts license dealers were matched to state secondhand gun transfer data. Logistic regression and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the characteristics of recovered crime guns and in-state primary and secondary market transaction patterns. Results For crime handguns with records of secondary market transactions in Massachusetts, many rapidly move from private transfer to recovery by the police. Unfortunately, important transaction data on the in-state sources of nearly 63% of recovered handguns were not readily available to law enforcement agencies. Conclusions Data on private transfers of guns could be used to prevent violent injuries by reducing criminal access. However, the passage of strong private transfer gun laws needs to be accompanied by investments in the vigorous enforcement of reporting requirements.
Flow cytometric analysis of marine bacteria with hoechst 33342.

We investigated the accuracy and precision of flow cytometric (FCM) estimates of bacterial abundances using 4′, 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) and Hoechst 33342 (HO342, a bisbenzamide derivative) on paraformaldehyde-fixed seawater samples collected from two stations near Oahu, Hawaii. The accuracy of FCM estimates was assessed against direct counts by using epifluorescence microscopy. DAPI and HO342 differ in two aspects of their chemistry that make HO342 better suited for staining marine heterotrophic bacteria for FCM analysis. These differences are most important in studies of open-ocean ecosystems that require dual-beam FCM analysis to clearly separate heterotrophic bacterial populations from populations of photosynthetic Prochlorococcus spp. Bacterial populations were easier to distinguish from background fluorescence when stained with HO342 than when stained with DAPI, because HO342 has a higher relative fluorescence quantum yield. A substantially higher coefficient of variation of blue fluorescence, which was probably due to fluorescent complexes formed by DAPI with double-stranded RNA, was observed for DAPI-stained populations. FCM estimates averaged 2.0 and 12% higher than corresponding epifluorescence microscopy direct counts for HO342 and DAPI-stained samples, respectively. A paired-sample t test between FCM estimates and direct counts found no significant difference for HO342-stained samples but a significant difference for DAPI-stained samples. Coefficients of variation of replicate FCM abundance estimates ranged from 0.63 to 2.9% (average, 1.5%) for natural bacterial concentrations of 6 × 105 to 15 × 105 cells ml-1.
Autoclass — A Bayesian Approach to Classification

We describe a Bayesian approach to the unsupervised discovery of classes in a set of cases, sometimes called finite mixture separation or clustering. The main difference between clustering and our approach is that we search for the “best” set of class descriptions rather than grouping the cases themselves. We describe our classes in terms of probability distribution or density functions, and the locally maximal posterior probability parameters. We rate our classifications with an approximate posterior probability of the distribution function w.r.t. the data, obtained by marginalizing over all the parameters. Approximation is necessitated by the computational complexity of the joint probability, and our marginalization is w.r.t. a local maxima in the parameter space. This posterior probability rating allows direct comparison of alternate density functions that differ in number of classes and/or individual class density functions.
A probabilistic formal analysis approach to cross layer optimization in distributed embedded systems

We present a novel approach, based on probabilistic formal methods, to developing cross-layer resource optimization policies for resource limited distributed systems. One objective of this approach is to enable system designers to analyze designs in order to study design tradeoffs and predict the possible property violations as the system evolves dynamically over time. Specifically, an executable formal specification is developed for each layer under consideration (for example, application, middleware, operating system). The formal specification is then analyzed using statistical model checking and statistical quantitative analysis, to determine the impact of various resource management policies for achieving desired end-to-end QoS properties. We describe how existing statistical approaches have been adapted and improved to provide analyses of given cross-layered optimization policies with quantifiable confidence. The ideas are tested in a multi-mode multi-media case study. Experiments from both theoretical analysis and Monte-Carlo simulation followed by statistical analyses demonstrate the applicability of this approach to the design of resource-limited distributed systems.
Completeness for Propositional Logic Programs with Negation

Whether logic programming is declarative depends on the technical condition of soundness and completeness: answers produced by resolution should be exactly the logical consequences of an easily understandable completion of the program. For SLDNF-resolution (on which Prolog is based), and for programs with negation, this goal has not yet been achieved, even at the propositional level.
Sulbactam/ampicillin versus metronidazole/gentamicin in the treatment of post-cesarean section endometritis

Sixty-seven patients diagnosed with post-cesarean-section endometritis were studied in a prospective comparative randomized trial of sulbactam/ampicillin, a new beta-lactamase inhibitor drug combination, versus treatment with metronidazole/gentamicin. The success rate was 91% for each antibiotic regimen. Mycoplasma spp. or Ureaplasma spp. were isolated from all treatment failures. Endometrial cultures revealed 2.3 aerobes as well as anaerobes per patient, with Enterococcus faecalis, Bacteroides bivius, and Escherichia coli the most frequently reported bacterial isolates in 64, 40, and 28% of all patients, respectively. Positive blood cultures were noted in 11 (15%) patients with Mycoplasma sp. the most commonly found isolate (45.5%). Sulbactam/ampicillin appears to be safe and equally effective as a metronidazole/aminoglycoside drug regimen in the treatment of postpartum endometritis.
Engagement-involvement and blood pressure change: a methodological inquiry.

In a study that examined further Singer's model of engagement-involvement in a community nursing setting, 31 black inner-city women conversed informally with a nurse while their blood pressure was monitored at two-minute intervals using a Hoffman-LaRoche Arteriosonde. Type A (coronary-prone) and hypertensive subjects were judged to not display greater engagement than type B and normotensive subjects, respectively. Within-subject correlations between observers' ratings of engagement and blood pressure showed substantial differences across subjects. Nevertheless, for correlations based on engagement judgments corresponding to the minute immediately preceding the blood pressure determination the mean within-subject values ranged from .14 to .32 (mean = .20) and were all significantly different from zero. Attention is directed to the need for refining the criteria used for judging engagement and to identifying patients for whom increased engagement may invalidate blood pressure measurements in a clinical setting.
Consider Nominating a Woman for an AGU Award

There are many ways to acknowledge scholarly achievement. One of the most prestigious is through professional society awards. Such awards recognize the achievements of society members and are important for career success. Any AGU member, even student members, can nominate someone to be a Fellow or awardee. In fact, some award, medal, and prize nominations are even open to the public.
The effect of colchicine on striated muscle in tissue culture.

Abstract Colchicine, in concentrations of 10−8 M or greater, causes a disruption of sarcoblast ribbons grown in tissue culture. The resulting segments are markedly shortened and widened, and of diminished consistency. They remain viable and capable of regeneration. Evidence is offered that these changes are due to the action of colchicine on an oriented system of extended protein micelles, presumably actomyosin protofibrils. The effect of colchicine on sarcoblasts is discussed in relation to its known action on the spindle and cytoplasm.
Smart shopping: conceptualization and measurement

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to gain a better conceptualization and measurement of smart shopping. The specific objectives are to: investigate consumers' perceptions of the term smart shopping; develop a measure of smart shopping; and validate the measure of smart shopping.Design/methodology/approach – The research includes a comprehensive literature review, focus group interviews, and in‐depth interviews for initial item generation and instrument development. Scale development consists of a pilot test (n=100), a pretest (n=237), and main study (n=1,474).Findings – The findings indicate that smart shopping includes consumers seeking to minimize the expenditure of time, money, or energy to gain hedonic or utilitarian value from the experience.Research limitations/implications – In‐store shopping was examined based on shopping for clothing, grocery, or electronics; therefore caution must be used when applying the smart shopping scale to other shopping contexts or product categories.Practical impli...
Enhancement and diminution of simultaneous brightness contrast by extended practice

In 15 spaced sessions of 10 trials apiece, each of 18 paid, volunteer, graduate-student subjects viewed and judged a display that produced simultaneous brightness contrast. Fully informed, the subjects made equations in terms of apparent physical luminance. Half the subjects were allowed a noncontrast view of the result of each of their equations; half were not. Individual trend analyses demonstrated significant tendencies toward enhancement as well as toward diminution of contrast effect. The factor of postviewing was nonsignificant. It is suggested that the anomalous enhancement effect is a result of a change in perceptual set over sessions, from one that is “analytic” to one that is “holistic.” It is pointed out that any significant trend in contrast effect, either upward or downward, is inconsistent with an explanation of simultaneous brightness contrast in simple retinal terms.
Subject Analysis for Cartographic Materials

SUMMARY Cartographic materials portray subject matter, focused on geographical area, with themes and cartographic forms as other facets of interest to users. Subject headings provide access to geographic areas and subject matter, both of which are significant to reference work and organization of map collections. This article focuses on the Library of Congress subject headings system, and its method of application for cartographic materials. Specific formats-including atlases, views, globes, charts and digital maps-and typical problem areas-such as geographic names, coastlines, boundary maps, ancillary maps, facsimiles, topographic quadrangles, and maps accompanying books-are discussed.
An observationally based evaluation of cloud ice water in CMIP3 and CMIP5 GCMs and contemporary reanalyses using contemporary satellite data

[1] We perform an observationally based evaluation of the cloud ice water content (CIWC) and path (CIWP) of present-day GCMs, notably 20th century CMIP5 simulations, and compare these results to CMIP3 and two recent reanalyses. We use three different CloudSat + CALIPSO ice water products and two methods to remove the contribution from the convective core ice mass and/or precipitating cloud hydrometeors with variable sizes and falling speeds so that a robust observational estimate can be obtained for model evaluations. The results show that for annual mean CIWP, there are factors of 2–10 in the differences between observations and models for a majority of the GCMs and for a number of regions. However, there are a number of CMIP5 models, including CNRM-CM5, MRI, CCSM4 and CanESM2, as well as the UCLA CGCM, that perform well compared to our past evaluations. Systematic biases in CIWC vertical structure occur below the mid-troposphere where the models overestimate CIWC, with this bias arising mostly from the extratropics. The tropics are marked by model differences in the level of maximum CIWC (∼250–550 hPa). Based on a number of metrics, the ensemble behavior of CMIP5 has improved considerably relative to CMIP3, although neither the CMIP5 ensemble mean nor any individual model performs particularly well, and there are still a number of models that exhibit very large biases despite the availability of relevant observations. The implications of these results on model representations of the Earth radiation balance are discussed, along with caveats and uncertainties associated with the observational estimates, model and observation representations of the precipitating and cloudy ice components, relevant physical processes and parameterizations.
Review of the sejunctus Species Group of the Split-footed Lacewing Genus Osmylops Banks (Neuroptera: Nymphidae), with Remarks on the Functional Morphology of Terminalic Coupling

The sejunctus species group is created for two Australian species of the split-footed lacewing genus Osmylops. the species group is characterised, Osmylops sejunctus (Walker) is redescribed and O. ectoarticulatus n.sp. is described. the male and female terminalia of both species are illustrated. Prior literature references to the species of the sejunctus group are clarified. Males and females of the sejunctus group possess coordinated, species-specific, suites of terminalic structures. the probable functions of these morphological structures during copulation are discussed.
Electrostatic fabrication of ultrafine conducting fibers: polyaniline/polyethylene oxide blends

Abstract Ultrafine fibers of polyaniline doped with camphorsulfonic acid (PAn.HCSA) blended with polyethylene oxide (PEO) were prepared by a non-mechanical, electrostatic spinning (“electrospinning”) technique. The morphology and fiber diameter of electrospun polyaniline blend fibers revealed that both the PEO and the PAn.HCSA/PEO blend fibers had a diameter ranging between 950 nm and 2.1 μm, with a generally uniform thickness along the fiber. The UV–visible spectra of these electrospun fibers were similar to those for cast films produced from the same solutions. As expected, the conductivity of the non-woven fiber mat, as measured by the four-point probe method, was slightly lower than that of a cast film, due to the high porosity of the non-woven mat. The rate for the vapor phase de-doping/re-doping of the electrospun fibers is at least one order of magnitude faster than for cast films, stressing the enormous effect an increase in the surface-to-volume ratio, accomplished by electrospinning the material into fibers, can have on the selected chemical properties of polyaniline blends.
Unrestricted Hybridization of Oligonucleotides to Structure-Free DNA†

The existence of secondary structure in long single-stranded DNA and RNA is a serious obstacle to the practical use of short oligonucleotide probes (<20-mers). Here, we show that replication of a highly structured DNA in the presence of a unique set of dNTP analogues leads to synthesis of daughter DNA with a significantly reduced level of secondary structure. This replicated DNA, composed of 2-aminoadenine, 2-thiothymine, 7-deazaguanine, and cytosine bases, was readily accessible to tiled 8-mer LNA and 15-mer DNA probes, whereas an unmodified version of the same DNA was inaccessible. Importantly, while the base analogues enhanced probe−target stability, they did not significantly reduce the specificity of base pairing. The availability of structure-free DNA targets should facilitate the use of short oligonucleotide probes and promote development of generic oligonucleotide microarrays.
Simulations of Cascade Damage in Silicon

In an effort to better understand radiation damage to electronic materials, we use the binary-collision simulation code MARLOWE to model displacement cascades in silicon. We examine the average number of displacements produced by knock-on atoms as a function of their energy. The resulting vacancy-interstitial pairs are classified according to separation radius. We also examine a few particular cases of 100 keV cascades in silicon in order to highlight the importance that channeling has on the shape of displacement cascades.
Superplasticity in cubic yttria stabilized zirconia with 10 wt.% alumina

Abstract The feasibility of superplasticity in 8 mol% cubic yttria stabilized zirconia (8Y-CSZ) containing a fine dispersion of alumina was investigated. Grain growth of 8Y-CSZ was limited by addition of 1–10 wt.% alumina. A fine grain size on the order of 1.1 μm was achieved with a dispersion of 10 wt.% alumina in 8Y-CSZ. Deformation tests under compression were conducted at temperatures from 1300 to 1450 °C for 8Y-CSZ with 10 wt.% alumina. Strain rates as high as 4×10 −3 s −1 at 1450 °C were obtained, similar to the high strain rates observed for superplastic tetragonal yttria stabilized zirconia. The inverse grain-size exponent and the stress exponent both were calculated to be around 2 and the activation energy for high temperature deformation was calculated to be in the range of 597–683 kJ/mol.