cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Difficult Library Patron: A Selective Survey of the Current Literature

Summary The issue of the difficult library patron has been of growing concern to the library community in the last decade. A number of monographs and journal articles have been published on this topic in recent years. This article surveys the literature concerning the problem library user including the homeless, the de-institutionalized, the mentally ill, and angry/frustrated patrons. It includes literature which discusses techniques for empowering front-line employees in handling various user behaviors and responding to patron problems.
Sample Size Determination

This concerns the evaluation of sample size required for a study before data are collected. This may be done by specifying either the required precision of an estimate, or the power of a test to detect an effect regarded as important. It may be necessary to consider the effects of missing data and of measurement unreliability. Many examples are considered in detail. Keywords: precision; power; significance test; alternative hypothesis; survival analysis; contingency table; analysis of variance; multiple regression; logistic; missing data; measurement error
Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory and Childbirth Attitudes Questionnaire: psychometric properties of Thai language versions.

tanglakmankhong k., perrin n.a. & lowe n.k. (2011) Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory and Childbirth Attitudes Questionnaire: psychometric properties of Thai language versions. Journal of Advanced Nursing 67(1), 193–203. Abstract Aim. This paper is a report of the psychometric properties of the Thai language versions of the Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory and the Childbirth Attitudes Questionnaire, and the equivalence of the Thai and English versions of these instruments. Background. The Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory and the Childbirth Attitudes Questionnaire were developed to measure women’s abilities to cope with labour and fear of childbirth. Consistent with Bandura’s Self-Efficacy Theory, women who have greater confidence in their ability to cope with labour have reported having less fear in childbirth. However, research is needed to validate the measures and this relationship in countries other than the United States of America, where the tools were developed. Methods. Back-translation was used. Content validity was examined by experts. The psychometric properties were estimated with internal consistency reliability, construct validity, contrasted groups and criterion-related validity with 148 pregnant women at a hospital in Thailand in 2008. Results. Both measures were shown to have high internal consistency. Contrasting group and criterion-related validity were consistent with self-efficacy theory and findings in the United States. Differences between the stages of labour across expectancies in the Childbirth Self-Efficacy inventory were found only for second stage. Conclusion. Support for good validity and reliability of the instruments when used with Thai women was demonstrated. It may be appropriate for Thai women to use The Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory only in relation to the second stage of labour.
Scalable MPEG2 Video Servers with Heterogeneous QoS on Parallel Disk Arrays

In this paper we focus on the video storage unit of a video server. We present a new, flexible data placement strategy for independent parallel disk arrays. The trade-off between utilization efficiency and interactive delay is investigated for this data placement strategy. Based on this trade-off, we show the advantage of video servers supporting a range of interactivity QoS. For our data placement strategy, we show that using scalable video improves the utilization and interactivity performance of a video server. We use three-layer, scalable MPEG2 digital video to support resolution QoS at a video server. Finally, we show that the data placement strategy reduces the complexity of admission control at the video server to that of a single disk system.
ASIC test cost/strategy trade-offs

Supplying cost effective testing for large application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) is one of the key challenges facing the semiconductor industry. Projections suggest that it will not be cost effective to continue in the current test direction. ASIC suppliers must be able to offer a flexible, cost-effective set of test solutions that will meet a variety of customer requirements. This paper presents some of the trade-offs used in developing optimal test strategies.
Spermatogenetic but not immunological defects in mice lacking the τCstF-64 polyadenylation protein

Alternative polyadenylation controls expression of genes in many tissues including immune cells and male germ cells. The τCstF-64 polyadenylation protein is expressed in both cell types, and we previously showed that Cstf2t, the gene encoding τCstF-64 was necessary for spermatogenesis and fertilization. Here we examine consequences of τCstF-64 loss in both germ cells and immune cells. Spermatozoa from Cstf2t null mutant (Cstf2t−/−) mice of ages ranging from 60 to 108 days postpartum exhibited severe defects in motility and morphology that were correlated with a decrease in numbers of round spermatids. Spermatozoa in these mice also displayed severe morphological defects at every age, especially in the head and midpiece. In the testicular epithelium, we saw normal numbers of cells in earlier stages of spermatogenesis, but reduced numbers of round spermatids in Cstf2t−/− mice. Although Leydig cell numbers were normal, we did observe reduced levels of plasma testosterone in the knockout animals, suggesting that reduced androgen might also be contributing to the Cstf2t−/− phenotype. Finally, while τCstF-64 was expressed in a variety of immune cell types in wild type mice, we did not find differences in secreted IgG or IgM or changes in immune cell populations in Cstf2t−/− mice, suggesting that τCstF-64 function in immune cells is either redundant or vestigial. Together, these data show that τCstF-64 function is primarily to support spermatogenesis, but only incidentally to support immune cell function.
Family-Centered Services in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit A Review of Research

This paper is a review of family-centered intervention programs conducted in the NICU and supported by evaluation data. Only 10 studies on family-centered NICU interventions published in peer-reviewed journals since 1980 were located. Of these, three focused on intervention with the goal of benefitting the family system directly, six involved parents but the primary focus was the infant, and one study combined these two approaches. All the studies carried out to date have substantial limitations arising from small sample sizes and other methodological issues. Thus, despite the emphasis on family-centered services in current legislation and in the theoretical literature, little empirical research is available to document the effectiveness of such approaches.
Reagin synthesis in inbred rats. II. Genetic control of reaginic antibody synthesis.

Abstract Specific reaginic (IgE) and hemagglutinating (IgG) antibodies were quantified after immunization with ovalbumin aluminum hydroxide gel in BN and ACI inbred rats, as well as their F 1 , F 1 X BN backcross, F 2 , and F 3 progeny. The dissimilarity of these immune responses indicated that reaginic (IgE) antibody synthesis was influenced by polygenic factors, but not sex, and was controlled by loci different from that governing hemagglutinating (IgG) antibody synthesis. In addition, tissue typing of the BN, ACI, F 1 , and F 3 hybrids suggested that reaginic antibody synthesis was not linked to the major rat histocompatibility locus.
Abstract A53: CXCR4 drives the metastatic phenotype in breast cancer through induction of CXCR2, transactivation of HER2/EGFR, and activation of MEK and PI3K pathways

Introduction: Aberrant expression of CXCR4 in human breast cancer correlates with metastasis and poor prognosis. Expression of a carboxyl-truncated CXCR4 (CXCR4ΔCTD) is associated with constitutive CXCR4 activity in MCF-7 breast cancer cells, increased motility, loss of E-cadherin, enhanced estrogen independent growth and lung metastasis in vivo. Here, we characterize the mechanism by which CXCR4 induces a mesenchymal phenotype with metastatic properties. Methods: MCF-7 cells expressing wild-type CXCR4 (CXCR4WT) or CXCR4ΔCTD were evaluated in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional reconstituted basement membrane (3D rBM) cultures for cell morphology and expression of factors that regulate the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cell migration. Effects of inhibition of key cytokine/chemokine signaling pathways activated by CXCR4 were examined. Tumor cell migration within the tumor microenvironment was followed using intravital imaging. Results: In 2D culture, MCF-7 CXCR4ΔCTD but not CXCR4WT cells, exhibited EMT characterized by up-regulation of ZEB-1 and cadherin 11, loss of E-cadherin, p120 isoform switching, and activation of ERK1/2, and MMP-2. The up-regulation of ZEB-1 was coincident with down-regulation of miR-200b and miR200c. In contrast to the 2D environment, 3D rBM MCF-7 CXCR4WT cultures exhibited the same stellate morphology of CXCR4ΔCTD cells, while MCF-7 control cells formed round acinar clusters. Expression of CXCR4 resulted in induction of expression of CXCR2, CXCR7, CXCL1, CXCL8, CCL2, IL-6 and GM-CSF by MCF-7 cells in 3DrBM, but not 2D culture. CXCR4 expression also induced transactivation of HER2 and EGFR. CXCL1, CXCL8 and CXCR2 appear to signal through a CXCR2 autocrine loop. In 3D rBM culture combined inhibition of CXCR4 and MEK1, or PI3K and MEK1/2 resulted in a change in morphology of CXCR4 expressing cells from stellate to round acinar clusters resembling controls. Combined inhibition of CXCR2 with MEK1, PI3K, or CXCR4 inhibitors also resulted in reversion of the stellate phenotype in 3D rBM. In vivo studies revealed that MCF-7 CXCR4WT and MCF-7CXCR4ΔCTD tumor cells migrate in a collective manner capable of lymphatic spread in athymic nude mice. Conclusions: Elevated expression or constitutive activation of CXCR4 results in EMT that is accompanied by up-regulation of receptors and cytokines important in collective cell migration leading to lymphatic invasion and tumor metastasis. Citation Format: Tammy Sobolik, Yingjun Su, Sam Wells, Ann Richmond. CXCR4 drives the metastatic phenotype in breast cancer through induction of CXCR2, transactivation of HER2/EGFR, and activation of MEK and PI3K pathways. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Invasion and Metastasis; Jan 20-23, 2013; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(3 Suppl):Abstract nr A53.
Influence of Fluctuations on Electron Beam Diagnostics

The influence fluctuations in rotational temperature, vibrational temperature, and number density may have on electron-beam measurements of nitrogen rotational temperature reduced with the line-slope technique is investigated. (auth)
A theory of catalytic war

two superpowers based on the doctrine of deterrence through retaliation may be upset with catastrophic results. In 1960 France emerged as the fourth member of the nuclear club. By 1970 most nations with appreciable military strength could have strategic nuclear weapons (Leghorn, 1958b, pp. 39-42), and ultimately these weapons will probably be possessed by almost every country in the world for a number of reasons (Knorr, 1957) unless measures are taken for controlling their spread (Davidon et al., 1960, pp. 29-36). The development of improved centrifuges for isotope separation might bring the day of cheap and plentiful nuclear weapons even closer.
Moral Realism and Kantian Constructivism

Abstract. This paper questions nearly every major point Christina Lafont (2004) makes about “the validity of social norms” and their relation to moral realism and Kantian constructivism. I distinguish realisms from theories of objective or subjective knowledge, then from cognitivism. Next, I distinguish Kant and constructivism from Rawls' political constructivism. Finally, I propose clues for an alternative theory of moral constructivism.
Monopolistic competition and the stability of industrial equilibrium

Abstract We consider a two-sector economy, consisting of the differentiated-goods and the homogeneous-goods industries, where the former is monopolistically competitive with scale-economies. We show that the Chamberlinian tangency solution is unstable when the supply side is characterized by the Heckscher-Ohlin two-factor model.
New Graduate Survey: Factors That Influence New Nurses’ Selection of First Clinical Position

Aim: The aim was to survey nurses with 2 to 3 years’ experience to determine what factors were involved in the choice of their first nursing position and if they were still in that position.Background: A false sense that the nursing shortage has ended has occurred with nurses delaying retirement until the economy improves. However, the turnover rate still shows 26% of registered nurses leaving their first hospital position within 2 years.Methods: New graduate nurses were surveyed to determine if nursing was what they expected, what led them to their first position, if they were still in their first position, and factors that may have influenced these decisions. The 159 respondents also commented on their intent to stay and gave free-text responses.Results: Significant difference was found between the current unit worked with both the unit wanted while in nursing school and the unit wanted upon graduation. Positive and negative narrative comments shed light on factors influencing intent to stay.Conclusion: Nurses are concerned with ability to deliver safe care, supportive management, and teamwork.Implications for Nursing Management: Recommendations were made for nursing management in creating an environment of continued learning and teamwork to support new graduate nurses.
Predictive factors of total shoulder arthroplasty failure: My crystal ball

Abstract As total shoulder arthroplasty has become more popular, the number of complications and failures are increasing. Surgeons performing the procedure and patients considering the surgery need to understand the factors that may determine success or failure. The most common predictors of failure are the indication for surgery (patient factors), the type of implant used (arthroplasty implant factors), and the skill of the surgeon (surgical factors). The aim of this review is to delineate the factors that may be associated with an increase in the risk of total shoulder arthroplasty failure.
Role of CD19 signal transduction in B cell biology

Knockout studies have established an important role for the B lymphocyte surface protein CD19 in physiology. Previous studies by us and others have examined how CD19 might function at the biochemical level, with focus on the cytoplasmic tyrosines. We have mapped multiple different molecular associations with these tyrosines. However, the major question in CD19 signaling is, how do these tyrosines relate to what happens in vivo? To address this issue, we created mice expressing only mutant forms of CD19. Our initial studies have found that most CD19 function in vivo is dependent on two of these cytoplasmic tyrosines, Y482 and Y513. However, the signaling defects in cells expressing this mutation are subtle. They demonstrate that how CD19 signals depends on how it is ligated, and that CD19 signals by more than one mechanism. These observations in primary cells give insights into how CD19 functions at the molecular level and likely explain some of the differences in CD19 function that have been reported in vivo.
Stenting of aortic coarctation: Technical considerations and procedural outcomes

Abstract Coarctation of the aorta is one of the more common congenital cardiac lesions. While transcatheter approaches, such as balloon angioplasty and stent implantation are often considered the primary therapeutic strategies for most patients with recoarctation, there is still considerable controversy with regard to the best therapeutic strategy for older patients with primary coarctation, mainly related to the lack of long-term outcome data. This article will highlight technical and procedural considerations for stent implantation for aortic coarctation.
A circuit-compatible analytical device model for ballistic nanowire transistors

Silicon nanowire transistors (SNWTs) have attracted broad attention as a promising device structure for future integrated circuits. Silicon nanowires with a diameter as small as 2nm and having high carrier mobility have been achieved. Consequently, to develop TCAD tools for SNWT design and to model SNWT for circuit-level simulations have become increasingly important. This paper presents a circuit-compatible closed-form analytical model for ballistic SNWTs. Both the current-voltage (I-V) and capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristics are modeled in terms of device parameters and terminal voltages. Such a model can be efficiently used in a conventional circuit simulator like SPICE to facilitate transistor-level simulation of large-scale nanowire or mixed nanowire-CMOS circuits and systems.
Fully-Coupled Model for 3-D Induction and Strain of Galfenol With Geometry Effects and Applied Currents

A fully-coupled and 3-D model for induction and strain of cubic magnetostrictive materials is presented which incorporates geometry dependent demagnetizing fields, current induced fields, and stress dependent permeability. Maxwell’s equations are coupled with a nonlinear constitutive model derived through thermodynamics. Discretization of the nonlinear problem with a known reference configuration yields a piecewise linear model ideal for transducer design.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Effects of Catecholamines and Renal Nerve Stimulation on Renin Release in the Nonfilterlng Kidney

The mechanisms whereby catecholamines and renal nerve stimulation increase renin secretion were studied in dogs with nonfiltering kidneys. In six dogs, epinephrine was infused into the renal artery at a rate that decreased renal blood flow to half of the control value. Papaverine was then infused into the renal artery to block the decrease in renal blood flow produced by the catecholamine, and the epinephrine infusion was resumed while the papaverine infusion was continued. In this experiment, renin release increased during infusion of epinephrine alone, but no change occurred with epinephrine during papaverine infusion. The protocol for the experiment on six other dogs was similar except that the infused catecholamine was norepinephrine. In this experiment, norepinephrine increased renin release both prior to and during papaverine infusion. In seven dogs, the effect of electrical stimulation of the renal nerves on renin secretion was studied both before and during the infusion of papaverine into the renal artery; renin release increased strikingly both before and during papaverine infusion. It is suggested that epinephrine increased renin secretion in the nonfiltering kidney by an action on the renal arterioles. In contrast, norepinephrine and renal nerve stimulation apparently increased renin secretion in the nonfiltering kidney by a direct effect on the juxtaglomerular cells. These data provide evidence for specific mechanisms of action of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and the renal nerves in renin release.
Two-component initiator systems for the ring-opening polymerization of oligomeric cyclic bisphenol-A carbonates. Studies with in situ generated Wittig salts

A two-component initiator system based on the in situ generation of Wittig salts (alkytriarylphosphonium bromides) has been developed for the ring-opening polymerization of cyclic bisphenol-A (BPA) carbonate oligomers for potential use in composite applications so that the prepolymer can suitably wet the composite material before being converted to high molecular weight polymer. The Wittig salt precursors (an alkyl bromide, such as hexadecyl bromide, and a triarylphosphine, such as triphenylphosphine) did not independently initiate significant ring-opening polymerization of the oligomeric cyclic BPA carbonate mixture. However, when the two mixtures of cyclic BPA carbonate oligomers and initiator component were combined, a high molecular weight polymer (M w = ∼65,000) was produced. The polymerization initiating species is thought to be hexadecyltriphenyl-phosphonium bromide. Consistent with this hypothesis is the observation that authentic Wittig salts did initiate ring-opening polymerization to provide high molecular weight polycarbonate. The effects of structure and concentration of the initiator components, reaction temperature, time, etc. on polymerization were studied ; in general, the degree of polymerization ranged from 65 to 85%.
Synthesis of a radiotracer for studying nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: 2-[18F]fluoro-3-(2(S)-azetidinylmethoxy)pyridine (2-[18F]A-85380)

The radiochemical synthesis of 2-[18F]fluoro-3-(2(S)-azetidinylmethoxy)pyridine (2-[18F]A-85380, [18F]1) was accomplished by Kryptofix® 222 assisted nucleophilic no-carrier-added [18F]fluorination of 2-iodo-3((1-tert-butoxycarbonyl-2(S)-azetidinyl)methoxy)pyridine, 2 followed by acidic deprotection. The average radiochemical yield was 10% and the average specific radioactivity was 1050 mCi/μmol, calculated at end-of-synthesis (EOS). © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protein heterodimerization through ligand-bridged multivalent pre-organization: Enhancing ligand binding toward both protein targets

Structure-based design of a bifunctional ligand for two protein pentamers, cholera toxin B pentamer (CTB) and human serum amyloid P component (SAP), leads to multivalent dimerization of CTB and SAP in solution. This multivalent heterodimerization of proteins significantly enhances the affinity of the bifunctional ligand toward both target proteins.
Myristoylated Alanine-rich C Kinase Substrate-mediated Neurotensin Release via Protein Kinase C-δ Downstream of the Rho/ROK Pathway

Myristoylated alanine-rich protein kinase C substrate (MARCKS) is a cellular substrate for protein kinase C (PKC). Recently, we have shown that PKC isoforms-alpha and -delta, as well as the Rho/Rho kinase (ROK) pathway, play a role in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-mediated secretion of the gut peptide neurotensin (NT) in the BON human endocrine cell line. Here, we demonstrate that activation of MARCKS protein is important for PMA- and bombesin (BBS)-mediated NT secretion in BON cells. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) to MARCKS significantly inhibited, whereas overexpression of wild-type MARCKS significantly increased PMA-mediated NT secretion. Endogenous MARCKS and green fluorescent protein-tagged wild-type MARCKS were translocated from membrane to cytosol upon PMA treatment, further confirming MARCKS activation. MARCKS phosphorylation was inhibited by PKC-delta siRNA, ROKalpha siRNA, and C3 toxin (a Rho protein inhibitor), suggesting that the PKC-delta and the Rho/ROK pathways are necessary for MARCKS activation. The phosphorylation of PKC-delta was inhibited by C3 toxin, demonstrating that the role of MARCKS in NT secretion was regulated by PKC-delta downstream of the Rho/ROK pathway. BON cell clones stably transfected with the receptor for gastrin releasing peptide, a physiologic stimulant of NT, and treated with BBS, the amphibian equivalent of gastrin releasing peptide, demonstrated a similar MARCKS phosphorylation as noted with PMA. BBS-mediated NT secretion was attenuated by MARCKS siRNA. Collectively, these findings provide evidence for novel signaling pathways, including the sequential regulation of MARCKS activity by Rho/ROK and PKC-delta proteins, in stimulated gut peptide secretion.
Spectroelectrochemical studies of stoichiometry, energetics, and kinetics of heme proteins: cytochrome c and cytochrome c oxidase

Abstract Two heme proteins, cytochrome c and cytochrome c oxidase, have been investigated in our laboratory by spectroelectrochemical techniques. In this paper we describe our spectroelectrochemical approach for the evaluation of stoichiometry, energetics and kinetics associated with each of these heme proteins and their mixtures. The spectroelectrochemical method involves the electrochemical generation of a mediator-titrant (either oxidant or reductant) at an optically transparent electrode. The subsequent exchange of electrons between the mediator-titrant and the heme protein is monitored spectrophotometrically by light passing directly through the optically transparent electrode and the solution. The heme protein can be cycled conveniently between its reduced and oxidized forms. An accurate assessment of the number of electrons (n value) transferred to or from the heme protein can be obtained from the charge required for titration. n values for cytochrome c oxidase, cytochrome c, modified cytochrome c and myoglobin have been measured in this way. Uo′ values, for cytochrome c and for the redox components of cytochrome c oxidase have been evaluated from the shape of absorbance-charge curves obtained by the spectroelectrochemical method. Assignments are made on the basis of comparisons between experimental curves and computer-calculated curves. Potentials are reported for cytochrome c oxidase in the presence and absence of cytochrome c. The applicability of spectroelectrochemical methods for the measurement of electron exchange with heme proteins is demonstrated.
Serum levels of methotrexate by the ligand binding assay after “HIGH‐DOSE” therapy for osteosarcoma

The method of Arons et al. (Cancer Res. 35:2033-2038, 1975) for assaying methotrexate (MTX) was used to monitor serum levels of the drug attained in 18 patients with osteosarcomas. The patients received either 100 mg or 200 mg of MTX/kg via a 6-hour infusion. With one fatal exception, unacceptable toxicity to MTX was prevented by leucovorin. Serum levels of the drug were assayed routinely at 6, 12, and 18 hours after termination of the infusion. Although significantly higher serum levels of MTX were observed at 6 hours after the infusion of 200 mg MTX/kg than after 100 mg/kg, the variation in rate of clearance of individual patients masked any subsequent dosage-related differences. The mean half-time for clearance of MTX was similar irrespective of the dosage of MTX and was 2.91 +/- 1.51 hr for 53 treatments. The single incidence of toxicity, requiring hospitalization, was accompanied with markedly higher serum levels of MTX at 18 hours, but not at either 6 or 12 hours after termination of the drug infusion, and by a slightly slower rate of clearance, 6.2 hours. Certain minor adaptations were incorporated in the original assay to simplify the analysis of data.
On the Computation of High Order Rys Quadrature Weights and Nodes

Since its introduction in 1976, the Rys Quadrature method has proven a very attractive method for evaluating electron repulsion integrals for calculations using Gaussian type orbitals. Since then, there have been considerable refinements of the method, but at it's core, Gaussian weights and nodes are used to exactly evaluate using a numerical approach to the transform integral. One of the powers of the Rys Quadrature method is the relative ease in evaluating integrals involving functions of high angular momentum. In this work we report on the complete resolution of these numerical difficulties, and we have easily computed accurate quadrature weights and nodes up to order 101. All calculations were carried out using 128-bit precision.
Pregnenolone metabolism in Digitalis lanata

Abstract After the administration of pregnenolone-4- 14 C to a Digitalis lanata plant, the following radioactive metabolites were isolated: digitoxigenin, gitoxigenin, digifologenin, 5β-pregnane-3,20-dione, and progesterone.
Psychosocial Adjustment Factors of Postsecondary Students with Learning Disabilities

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine selected issues addressing the psychosocial adjustment of postsecondary students with learning disabilities (LD) in comparison to their peers without learning disabilities (NLD). Students from two mid-size colleges in the Midwest responded to survey questions and the Personal Orientation Inventory (Shostrom, 1964). The study explored psychosocial issues such as self-concept, self-awareness, and other areas related to independence, academics, and goal setting. The sample consisted of 110 students: 51 students with learning disabilities, and 59 students without disabilities who were not significantly different in gender or age. The data indicate, in general, lower levels of awareness, acceptance, and expression of affective characteristics among students with LD. Background findings are further reported in terms of students residential status, employment status, goal setting, and self-perceptions of academic confidence.
The effects of high altitude on the reproductive cycle and pregnancy in the hamster.

Mature female golden hamsters, which had demonstrated regular reproductive cycles, when exposed to 23,000 feet simulated altitude for eight or more days became acyclic. Their ovaries, which were polyfollicular, suggested that LH release or synthesis by the hypophysis had been blocked. Human chori-onic gonadotrophin (which has LH activity) caused similarly exposed animals to ovulate. When animals which were exposed to high altitude for nine days were returned to control altitude, they ovulated five days later. Starvation for nine days, which has no significant effect on adrenal weight but does cause increased LH dependent ovarian interstitial development at control altitude, failed to do so at 23,000 feet. It is hypothesized that high altitude selectively blocks LH secretions by the hypophysis. High altitude also interrupted pregnancy when treatment lasted four or more days and was begun before day 12. Since follicular development of pregnancy continued normally but corpora lutea regressed and both FSH and prolactin are needed to maintain the hamster corpus luteum, this study suggests the possibility that prolactin secretion is blocked in the pregnant animal at high altitude.
Tolerance on defocus precisely locates the far field (exactly where is that far field anyway

The Fraunhofer criterion defines the location of the boundary between the Fresnel and the Fraunhofer diffraction regions and thus determines the location of that region commonly referred to as the far field. The Fraunhofer criterion is usually given as an axial distance much greater than some amount relative to the maximum dimension of the aperture. By recognizing that Fresnel diffraction patterns are merely defocused Fraunhofer diffraction patterns, we show that the Fraunhofer criterion can be written precisely in terms of an allowable tolerance on defocus. This new criterion provides insight that is useful to optical designers and engineers who routinely deal with such tolerances.
Solution Behavior of IFN-β-1a: An Empirical Phase Diagram Based Approach

ABSTRACT An empirical phase diagram approach has been developed as a practical tool to aid macromolecular preformulation/formulation studies. This method employs an eigenvector based procedure to visualize and interpret complex data sets. Human Inteferon-β-1a, an important therapeutic protein, was used to further develop the method and test its utility. The protein was characterized in solution as a function of pH (2–8), temperature (10°C–85°C) and ionic strength ( I = 0.1 and 1.0) using intrinsic and ANS fluorescence, Far-UV circular dichroism (Far-UV CD), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and derivative UV absorbance spectroscopies, as well as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to supplement spectroscopic thermal stability studies. Derivative UV absorbance data were initially used to construct a pH-temperature phase diagram at each ionic strength. Three distinctive phases at I = 0.1 and two major phases at I = 1.0 were identified corresponding to different conformation/aggregation states of the protein. For the first time, heterogeneous data sets (i.e., data from different techniques) including Far-UV CD, fluorescence and UV absorbance results were used to generate empirical phase diagrams. Results from different data sets are compared; precautions in applying the method and its overall utility are discussed. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.
Student research highlight leveraging the technology investments of the past

Technology-based systems that were developed decades ago, from the Internet to aircraft, continue to be in use across industries. Considering the investment made, it is essential to maintain these systems. The maintenance of systems that are in use is termed ?servicing existing systems.?
Knowledge trees and protoforms in question‐answering systems

We point out that question-answering systems differ from other information-seeking applications, such as search engines, by having a deduction capability, an ability to answer questions by a synthesis of information residing in different parts of its knowledge base. This capability requires appropriate representation of various types of human knowledge, rules for locally manipulating this knowledge, and a framework for providing a global plan for appropriately mobilizing the information in the knowledge to address the question posed. In this article we suggest tools to provide these capabilities. We describe how the fuzzy set-based theory of approximate reasoning can aid in the process of representing knowledge. We discuss how protoforms can be used to aid in deduction and local manipulation of knowledge. The idea of a knowledge tree is introduced to provide a global framework for mobilizing the knowledge base in response to a query. We look at some types of commonsense and default knowledge. This requires us to address the complexity of the nonmonotonicity that these types of knowledge often display. We also briefly discuss the role that Dempster-Shafer structures can play in representing knowledge.
Body fluid and endometrial concentrations of ketoconazole in mares after intravenous injection or repeated gavage

After single oral administration of ketoconazole (30 mg/kg bodyweight [bwt]) in 50 ml of corn syrup to a healthy mare, the drug was not detected in serum. Ketoconazole in 0.2 N HC1 was administered intragastrically to six healthy adult horses in five consecutive doses of 30 mg/kg bwt at 12 h intervals. Ketoconazole concentrations were measured in serum, synovial fluid, peritoneal fluid, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), urine and endometrium. Mean peak serum ketoconazole concentration was 3.76 micrograms/ml at 1.5 to 2 h after intragastric administration. Mean peak synovial concentration was 0.87 micrograms/ml 3 h after the fifth dose. Similarly, mean peritoneal concentration peaked 3 h after the fifth dose at 1.62 micrograms/ml. Mean endometrial concentrations peaked at 2.73 micrograms/ml 2 h after the fifth dose. Ketoconazole was detected in the CSF of only one of the six mares at a concentration of 0.28 micrograms/ml 3 h after the fifth dose. The highest measured concentration of ketoconazole in urine was 6.15 micrograms/ml 2 h after the fifth dose. A single intravenous injection of ketoconazole (10 mg/kg bwt) was given to one of the six mares; the overall elimination rate constant was estimated at 0.22/h and bioavailability after oral administration was 23 per cent.
Implicit allowance for “specific” hydrogen bonding contributions to hydration energies in quantum chemically based continuum models: a phenomenological perspective

Abstract The abilities of some quantum mechanically based continuum models to accurately predict hydration energies, even where “specific” hydrogen bonding interactions to the aqueous solvent are anticipated, suggests that such effects are implicitly allowed for in the electrostatic model. Examples of this phenomenon involving various ’onium ions are presented and discussed in the context of COSMO, SM2, and a revised version of the authors’ previously described PCM method.
Design, synthesis and photoelectrochemical properties of hexagonal metallomacrocycles based on triphenylamine: [M6(4,4′-bis(2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridinyl)triphenylamine)6(X)12]; [M = Fe(II), PF6− and Zn(II), BF4−]

Synthesis of a novel bis(terpyridine) ligand, 4,4′-bis(2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridinyl)triphenylamine, utilizing triphenylamine, as a specific angle controller, has led to the self-assembly of a unique hexagonal metallomacrocycle family, [Fe6(2)6(PF6)12] and [Zn6(2)6(BF4)12], utilizing terpyridine–metal(II)–terpyridine connectivity. The crystal structure of the novel ligand shows that the angle between the two terpyridinyl moieties is 119.69°, which enabled the formation of the hexagonal-shaped macrocycles. The crystal packing architectures of this starting ligand revealed channels induced by solvent encapsulation. Following complexation of this ligand with transition metals [Fe(II) or Zn(II)] in a one-pot reaction, the resultant structures were characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, UV/Vis and mass spectroscopies. The expected metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT; λmax = 582 nm) and emission (λem = 575 nm) characteristics were exhibited by both [Fe6(2)6(PF6)12] and [Zn6(2)6(BF4)12]. The photoelectrochemical characteristics of these hexagonal metallomacrocycles demonstrate that they can be used as sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells.
Forces Involved in Soy Protein Gelation: Effects of Various Reagents on the Formation, Hardness and Solubility of Heat-Induced Gels Made from 7S, 11S, and Soy Isolate

The effects of various reagents on the formation, hardness and solubility of heat-induced gels of soybean 7S, 11S globulins and isolate were studied. Gels were formed in 30 mM Tris HCl buffer (pH 8.0) with or without reagents by heating at 80°C for 30 min. The results indicated that electrostatic interactions and disulfide bonds are involved in the formation of 11S globulin gels; mostly hydrogen bonding in 7S globulin gels and hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions in soy isolate gels. Analyses of the proteins solubilized from the gels indicated that the basic subunits of 11S globulin interact with 7S globulin in soy isolate gels. The contribution of certain acidic subunits to network formation in US soy isolate gels is limited
BLOOD SUPPLY TO HEPATIC V2 CARCINOMA IMPLANTS AS MEASURED BY RADIOACTIVE MICROSPHERES.

Conclusions1. Radioactive microspheres reach a concentration in hepatic metastases averaging 4 times the concentration in surrounding liver parenchyma when infused via the hepatic artery. 2. When delivered into the portal system radioactive microspheres reach metastases in only an average of one-third their concentration in the surrounding liver. 3. Spill-over of radioactive microspheres 15 μ in diameter from liver to lungs and kidneys is negligible. 4. Arteriovenous shunts in liver and in V2 carcinoma are either few in number or are less than 15 μ in diameter.
Heisenberg model for the square-planar lattice and fragments.

Finite-fragment computations for the ground state of the isotropic spin-(1/2 Heisenberg model for the square-planar lattice are made. Both the exact ground-state and the (severe form of the) resonating-valence-bond ansatz are considered and compared. Energy extrapolations to infinite strips and then the infinite lattice are attempted. A novel real-space renormalization for the ground state is also carried out, and finally the possibility of single-soliton excitations is considered. The short-range ansatz is found to give only a modest improvement beyond a simple N\'eel state and to be unstable to disproportionation into well-separated single spins.
The emergence of a Kaluza-Klein microgenometry from the invariants of optimally Euclidean Lorentzian spaces

It is shown that relativistic spacetimes can be viewed as Finslerian spaces endowed with a positive definite distance (ω0, mod ωi) rather than as pariah, pseudo-Riemannian spaces. Since the pursuit of better implementations of “Euclidicity in the small” advocates absolute parallelism, teleparallel nonlinear Euclidean (i.e., Finslerian) connections are scrutinized.
Antibiotic troubleshooting in primary care.

Allergic reactions, adverse effects, and drug interactions are an inevitable part of antimicrobial prescribing. A working knowledge of these issues remains paramount, especially when administering such agents to patients who are pregnant, infected with HIV or who have renal insufficiency. The discussion also includes antibiotic-OTC drug interactions and antibiotic hypersensitivity.
Colour holographic images reconstructed by white-light processing

Abstract A method that uses white-light processing to reconstruct colour holographic images is introduced. Construction of the colour hologram and the optical arrangement for image retrieval are outlined. Advantages of the method are considered with reference to similar techniques such as reflection and rainbow holography.
The impact of adhesion peptides within hydrogels on the phenotype and signaling of normal and cancerous mammary epithelial cells

The microenviroment contributes to directing mammary epithelial cell (MEC) development and the progression of breast cancer. Three-dimensional culture models have been used to support formation of structures that display varying degrees of disorganization that parallel the degree of cancer. Synthetic hydrogels were employed to investigate the mechanisms by which specific adhesion signals in the microenvironment directed development. Polyethylene glycol-based hydrogels supported 3D growth of MECs and directed formation of a range of phenotypes that were functions of genotype, and identity and concentration of adhesion peptides RGD and YIGSR. Non-cancerous and cancerous MECs responded differentially to the same adhesion cues and produced variable structural organizations. An analysis of dynamic signaling pathways revealed differential activities of transcription factors within the MAPK and JAK/STAT pathways in response to genotype and adhesion. These results directly implicate adhesion in cancer development and demonstrate that AP1, CREB, STAT1, and STAT3 all contribute to the genotype dependence of cellular response to adhesion peptides. The tools presented in this work could be applied to other systems and connect extracellular cues with intracellular signaling to molecularly dissect tissue development and further biomaterials development.
Community mental health services and the elderly: retrenchment or expansion?

Data gathered from a recent survey, of CMHC's suggest that the elderly are increasing their utilization of CMHC services. As more responsibility for mental health services is shifted to the states, a commitment to mental health services for the elderly increasingly becomes an issue of state discretion, and of state finances. This makes it probable that accessibility to mental health services for the elderly will become more variable and problematic on a national basis. This is especially important in light of data that indicates an increasing awareness by CMHC's of the mental health needs of the elerly.
Comparison of Nafion- and overoxidized polypyrrole-carbon nanotube electrodes for neurotransmitter detection

Permselective polymer coatings improve selectivity and sensitivity of microelectrodes for cationic neurotransmitters. Immobilizing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into these polymers should further improve sensitivity by increasing the electroactive surface area. The goal of this study was to compare the electrochemical properties of overoxidized polypyrrole (oPPY)-CNT and Nafion-CNT coated microelectrodes. Fast-scan cyclic voltammetry was used to test their response to neurochemicals. For dopamine, the average increase in oxidation current compared to bare electrodes was 3.7 ± 0.5 for oPPY-CNT electrodes (limit of detection (LOD) = 3.3 ± 0.6 nM) and 3.3 ± 0.8 for Nafion-CNT electrodes (LOD = 4 ± 1 nM). The selectivity for dopamine over ascorbic acid was better with oPPY-CNT electrodes. oPPY-CNT electrodes also displayed increased electron transfer kinetics for anions while Nafion-CNT electrodes did not, which proves that polymer deposition can affect the electrocatalytic properties of the CNTs. Both oPPY-CNT and Nafion-CNT electrodes were used to detect stimulated dopamine release in the caudate-putamen of anesthetized rats after 2, 4 and 12 pulse stimulation trains. oPPY-CNT electrodes could also detect small amounts of dopamine after 4 and 12 pulse stimulations in the basolateral amygdala (BLA). Although Nafion-CNT electrodes were easier to make, oPPY-CNT electrodes were more advantageous for dopamine detection because they were reproducibly fabricated, measured higher currents in vivo, and maintained selectivity over anions. The addition of CNTs to polymer coatings facilitates measurements of small concentrations of neurotransmittersin vivo.
Fine structural changes in hypotonically treated Ehrlich ascites tumor cells.

Abstract The fine structure of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells subjected to hypotonic treatment for periods of from 1 to 9 min was described, together with the appearances of untreated and saline-washed control cells. Saline washing did not affect the morphology of the cells, whereas hypotonic stress caused severe alterations. In particular, the cells developed increasingly prominent projections of cytoplasm as the treatment period was prolonged. Some cells appeared edematous following 2 min in water. Such cells were not seen at later periods, but cell debris and individual nuclei became increasingly common. The affinity of ascites tumor cells for the dye nigrosin increased during such hypotonic treatment, but no structural modifications of cell plasma membranes could be found which might have accounted for the intracellular uptake of this and other substances. On the contrary, the plasma membranes of these grossly altered cells appeared strikingly normal. Some of the problems of assessing alterations in the fine structure of cell membranes were discussed.
Infectious Diseases among Wild Fishes

Abstract It is generally believed that fish diseases are a product of the hatcheries and that they rarely occur among wild fishes. This impression is largely due to the difficulty of detecting and studying diseases in fish under natural conditions. There is good evidence that infectious diseases are quite common among fishes in nature and that they exact a heavy toll each year. The most destructive diseases are caused by bacterial and protozoan infections. Virus diseases may result in widespread epidemics, but the mortality is usually not high. Infections with fungi are not uncommon and may cause considerable mortality. Parasitic worms and copepods, while common, appear to be relatively less harmful.
Some dielectric solvation effects on the energetics of electrified metal interfaces and related molecular systems

Abstract The sensitivity of the surface potential of metal-vacuum interfaces to the presence of molecular dielectric (solvating) species both with or without free ionic/electronic charge is discussed with the objective of comparing the behavior of such “electrified dielectric” interfaces with analogous metal-solution (i.e. electrochemical) systems. The close connection between “surface-potential” scales based on work function (Φ) and electrode-potential (E) measurements is outlined. The chief factors determining the surface potential are illustrated by means of composition-dependent Φ data for single-crystal metal surfaces modified by thin (1–3 monolayer) films of dipolar molecules along with ionizable species in relation to E values for corresponding in-situ electrochemical interfaces. The former Φ-composition measurements, for vacuum-based electrified dielectric interfaces, demonstrate how even primary solvation (i.e. a single molecular layer) is sufficient to engender substantial and electrochemical-like stabilization of interfacial ionic species. The essential nature of dielectric-induced modifications to electron-transfer energetics at metal-vacuum interfaces are considered, and also related to the observed marked solvation effects on the charging of metalliclike clusters, such as fullerenes. The potential value of such unified treatments of surface potential-charge relationships in vacuum and electrochemical systems is also sketched in more general terms.
Colours at the nanoscale: Printable stained glass

Silver disk-over-hole nanostructures create bright colours and fine tonal variations with the best possible resolution for visible light.