cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Role of Trauma in Mothers' COVID-19 Vaccine Beliefs and Intentions.

OBJECTIVE: Research on COVID-19 vaccine beliefs has focused primarily on adults' intentions to vaccinate themselves; however, many parents will also face decisions about vaccinating their children. In this study, we examine how maternal posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma history relate to mothers' beliefs and intentions about the COVID-19 vaccine for themselves and their children. METHODS: A total of 240 mothers with a mental health history participating in a parenting study answered online survey questions via Prolific. Questions assessed: (a) trauma indictors (past diagnosis, current symptoms, and lifetime exposure to events); (b) vaccine measures (intentions for self and child, COVID-19 vaccine confidence, general vaccine perceived safety, reasoning about vaccine intentions, sources of influence on intentions); and (c) possible explanatory variables (institutional distrust, negative worldviews). ANCOVAs and regression analyses were used. RESULTS: When compared with mothers with other mental health diagnoses, mothers with a PTSD history had significantly less confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine and less intent to get the vaccine for themselves or their child. These effects were explained by greater institutional distrust (i.e., significant indirect effects). Mothers with a previous PTSD diagnosis also expressed different reasons for vaccine hesitancy (e.g., less belief in science) and ascribed less influence to healthcare and governmental sources in vaccine decision-making. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the potential utility of a trauma-informed approach in efforts to reduce COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. For mothers with a history of PTSD, addressing institutional distrust, including towards the healthcare industry, may be an important element to consider in the content, delivery, and mode of vaccine messaging.
Inter-Beat Interval Estimation with Tiramisu Model: A Novel Approach with Reduced Error

Inter-beat interval (IBI) measurement enables estimation of heart-rate variability (HRV) which, in turns, can provide early indication of potential cardiovascular diseases. However, extracting IBIs from noisy signals is challenging since the morphology of the signal is distorted in the presence of the noise. Electrocardiogram (ECG) of a person in heavy motion is highly corrupted with noise, known as motion-artifact, and IBI extracted from it is inaccurate. As a part of remote health monitoring and wearable system development, denoising ECG signals and estimating IBIs correctly from them have become an emerging topic among signal-processing researchers. Apart from conventional methods, deep-learning techniques have been successfully used in signal denoising recently, and diagnosis process has become easier, leading to accuracy levels that were previously unachievable. We propose a deep-learning approach leveraging tiramisu autoencoder model to suppress motion-artifact noise and make the R-peaks of the ECG signal prominent even in the presence of high-intensity motion. After denoising, IBIs are estimated more accurately expediting diagnosis tasks. Results illustrate that our method enables IBI estimation from noisy ECG signals with SNR up to -30dB with average root mean square error (RMSE) of 13 milliseconds for estimated IBIs. At this noise level, our error percentage remains below 8% and outperforms other state of the art techniques.
The Assessment of Methanogens by the Quantitative Determination of Coenzyme F420 in Anaerobic Systems

Coenzyme F420 was extracted from ruminant dungs and digested slurries by boiling water. The extract was treated with acetone to get rid of biopolymers. The fluorescent and excitation spectra were identical to the published ones. DEAE Sephadex (A.25) column chromatography was used to isolate the coenzyme. Preliminary polarographic studies gave E1/2 more negative than the reported ones of riboflavin, FMN, FAD, NHD, and NADP. The possibility of using polarography for the quantitative determination of F420 is discussed.
Morphological and genetic survey of Giant Salvinia populations in Louisiana and Texas

Giant Salvinia (Salvinia molesta Mitchell) is a floating aquatic fern introduced from South America whose rapid growth impairs health of plants and animals in lakes, rivers, and bayous in various southern U.S. states. To assist in development of long-term control strategies, we examined in 2009 the range of diversity at the whole-plant and molecular level within and across six populations of S. molesta in Louisiana and Texas. Significant variation was observed for all five morphological traits measured both within and across collection sites. Root length was moderately associated with colony width, rhizome length, and leaf width when averaged across sites, but not when each location was evaluated separately. Cluster analysis revealed that S. molesta could be grouped into three to five distinct groups depending on the trait under consideration. Fruiting bodies (sporocarps) were observed only at one south Louisiana location. The salvinia weevil, Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder & Sands, was not found at any location during this study. Analysis of Molecular Variance of AFLP markers and DNA sequence analysis of the gapCp gene showed that the majority of molecular variation was detected within populations (87–93%) compared to diversity among populations (7–13%). Location (environment) was considered to be the most important source of variation for all measured traits. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of AFLP and gapCp data revealed distinct clusters comprised of members across different collection sites. Although substantial morphological and molecular variations were detected both within and among populations, all data from this study suggested that these six populations were derived originally from the same clonal or related populations.
Effect of Protein Restriction on Macrophage Phagocytic Capacity in Young Mice

C57BL/6J male mice were fed ad libitum either a 6% (low) or 25% (control) protein diet for 2 to 6 weeks. At periods of 2, 3, 5 or 6 weeks following initiation of the feeding protocol thioglycollate-elicited peritoneal macrophages were assayed for Fc receptor-mediated phagocytic capability with IgG-coated sheep red blood cells (SRBC). Binding via this receptor (as monitored at 2 degrees C) was not affected by the protein restriction throughout the study. Ingestion of prebound IgG-SRBC was initially suppressed (2 weeks on diet) in macrophages from animals fed low protein but rose to a level significantly higher than similarly treated control animals after 5 weeks on the diet. At 3 and 6 weeks macrophages from control and low protein-fed animals exhibited no differences in ingestion capability. Overall phagocytosis (no prebinding of IgG-SRBC) was similar in trend to the data observed for ingestion. The data indicate both an altered response to phagocytosis with the low protein diet and the importance of quantitating the relationship between the duration of the nutritional insult and the parameter being measured.
Physiology and Pathobiology of Microvascular Endothelium

Publisher Summary The blood is normally in contact with only a single cell type, namely vascular (and endocardial) endothelium. ECs at these different sites exhibit both common features and differences. This chapter summarizes some of these features with emphasis on the microvasculature. Blood is conducted throughout the body within a continuous series of vessels that are lined by a single layer of epithelial-like cells known as vascular ECs. Vascular ECs, which line the entire circulatory system, show common features and also show tissue-specific differences, especially in the microcirculation. Microvascular ECs perform a number of constitutive functions, namely regulation of blood flow (especially by arteriolar ECs), regulation of permselectivity (especially by capillary ECs), regulation of inflammation (especially by venular ECs) and maintenance of blood fluidity (by all ECs). Compromise or loss of any of these functions constitutes endothelial dysfunction. Microvascular ECs may contribute to inflammation by acquisition of new properties, called activation. Early activation events may be protein synthesis-independent (type I activation) or protein synthesis-dependent (type II activation). Type II activation may evolve as the inflammatory process changes from innate to adaptive immunity. Inflammation may injure ECs, contributing to dysfunction. ECs may also be activated to resist injury in the environment of inflammation processes (type III activation). Microvascular ECs are a remarkably plastic cell type, showing profound adaptations to promote host defense and resist injury.
Das Glück der Kindheit im frühen Werk Thomas Manns

Summary Das Motiv vom Gluck der Kindheit im Werk Thomas Manns ist bislang von der Literaturwissenschaft als nebensachlich verkannt und in seinem kunstlerischen Stellenwert unterschatzt worden. Gerade die Glucksthematik zieht sich jedoch durch das gesamte Werk dieses Autors: von der Erzahlung«Der Wille zum Gluck»(1896) bis zum Roman«Bekenntnisse des Hochstaplers Felix Krull»(1954). Erst im Zusammenhang mit dem Motiv der Kindheit lassen sich aber klare Konturen bei der Gestaltung dieses Gegenstandes erkennen. Die vor dem Roman«Buddenbrooks»entstandenen Erzahlungen sind Ausdruck der Dichotomie zwischen romantischen Lebenszielen und einer grausamen, erfolgsorientierten Umwelt. Die vom Leben enttauschten Helden sehen in den wenigen glucklichen Kindheitserlebnissen, an die sie sich nur vage erinnern, den Ausgangspunkt ihrer Entfremdung von den anderen. Sie laufen Gefahr, sich in ihrer Verzweiflung wiederum kindlich zu verhalten und hierdurch als naiv ‘entlarvt’ zu werden. Die Verbindung von kindlichem Gluck und Lacherlichkeit findet sich auch in den spateren Werken Thomas Manns, zumeist aber nur als Urteil einzelner Gestalten wie Sesemi Weichbrodt in den«Buddenbrooks». Ihr stehen nun jedoch andere Realisationsformen des Motivs gegenuber. Dies wird moglich, weil der Roman die Dichotomie von Gluck und Leben als den Endpunkt eines historischen Entfremdungsprozesses erscheinen Iast. So wird dann auch in den folgenden Werken der Versuch unternommen, dem gefahrdeten Gluck immer wieder neuen Ausdruck zu verschaffen.
Human Y-chromatin. II. DNA replication.

Abstract The DNA synthesis of the human Y-chromatin in its various morphological configurations was studied by labeling with tritiated thymidine ( 3 H-TdR) and autoradiography. Continuous terminal and pulse labeling studies revealed that while condensed, the Y-body lagged in DNA synthesis behind the rest of the nucleus. The highest rate of incorporation of 3 H-TdR by the Y-body occurred when it was dispersed. These observations are consistent with the replication characteristics of the Y chromosome as determined by conventional late labeling studies and strongly suggest that the Y-body uncoils at the time it replicates its DNA.
Social Exclusion: Comparative Analysis of Europe and Middle East Youth

Most typically, analyses of youth have employed either the neo-classical economic framework of human capital or the socio-demographic framework of life-course research in the Middle East. While both have produced important findings and insights, their focus on supply-side processes of individuals is limited. The role of institutions on the supply side is especially important in understanding youth disadvantage in the Middle East. As research turns to the sources of youth disadvantage, comparative studies may fruitfully adopt a perspective oriented to the idea of social exclusion. Whatever the content and criteria of social membership, socially excluded groups and individuals lack capacity or access to social opportunity. Exclusion breaks the larger social bond holding groups together. Thus, exclusion is at once a macro and a micro phenomenon. The theoretical orientation of social exclusion can be distinguished from the previous two approaches in that it considers trajectories of group relations as well as relations between individuals, and examines not only those excluded, but also the excluding institutions and individuals that benefit from the process.
Pharmacists' Perceptions of Retail Pharmacy's Professional Image: Implications for Pharmaceutical Manufacturers

The objective of this study was to identify the manufacturer-related factors that may influence pharmacists' perceptions of retail pharmacy's professional image. A nationally representative sample of 455 community pharmacists (41.8% response rate) responded to a mailed survey. Twenty-one items were included in an exploratory factor analysis. The factors relating to therapeutic failures and manufacturers' pricing policies both had a negative impact on pharmacists' perceptions of professional image, while generic drug product and advertising factors had a more neutral impact. Recommendations regarding the future focus of pharmacist promotions are discussed.
A Fuzzy Model for Multifingered Robot Prehension

This paper first describes a fuzzy model for multifingered robot grasp planning. This is an extension of a previously developed model of hand configurations (i.e. shapes, postures, etc.) that consists of a hierarchy of topological and geometrical representations. The top level is a topological point-set representation bounded by four terminal postures of the hand, and is labeled as a topological tetrahedron space of hand configurations. These configurations are described and specified by a collection of properties that are incomplete and imprecise. These collection of properties specify fuzzy points describing the fuzzy vertices of the topological tetrahedron. The edges (bounded by fuzzy end-points) are called fuzzy edges and the faces (bounded by fuzzy vertices and fuzzy edges) are called fuzzy faces of the tetrahedron. These topological elements are considered as sources of fuzziness inherent from the modeling scheme, in addition to other sources of fuzziness such as (i) those attributed to objects: recognition, representation, location and orientation, and (ii) those attributed to dextrous grasp planning procedures and to the representions of actions to be performed by a multifingered robot hand. From this basis, a fuzzy algorithm for the determination of dextrous grasps is outlined.
Nanoparticles in Ophthalmic Medicine

ABSTRACT Over the past decade, nanoparticles have risen to the forefront of biotechnology, promising diverse applications in the fields of gene therapy, drug delivery, and imaging. Nanoparticles can be engineered to create optimal features that are tissue-specific or target-orientated to promote their uptake, clearance, biodegradability, reduced immunogenicity, and detection. Nanomedicine offers potentially safe and successful treatment regimens for ocular disorders. In this review, the authors focus on the ophthalmic applications of nanoparticles, with particular attention to gene therapy and drug delivery.
Utilization of one promoter by two forms of RNA polymerase from Bacillus subtilis.

Bacillus subtilis possesses several forms of RNA polymerase, each differing in its σ subunit and its specificity of promoter recognition1,2. The sequential appearance of σ subunits, which change the promoter recognition specificity of RNA polymerase, may have a key role in controlling the temporal pattern of gene expression required for endospore development in B. subtilis3. Several genes that are expressed over relatively long periods of time during the developmental cycle are transcribed by more than one form of RNA polymerase, which initiate transcription from either tandem or overlapping promoters2,4. The promoter region for the ctc gene is interesting because transcription is initiated at or near the same position by both σ37 RNA polymerase (Eσ37), a minor form in growing cells, and σ29 RNA polymerase (Eσ29), a form which appears ∼2 h after the initiation of sproulation5. Here we report that several base substitutions in the ctc promoter differentially affect the utilization of the promoter by Eσ37 or Eσ29.
Algorithmic aspects of alternating sum of volumes part 1: data structure and difference operation

Abstract In terms of basic theory, a unique conversion from a boundary representation to a CSG representation is of importance. In terms of application, the extraction of features by convex decomposition is of interest. The alternating sum of volumes (ASV) technique offers both. However, some algorithmic issues are still unresolved. The paper is the first section of a 2-part paper that addresses specialized set operations and the convergence of the ASV process. In the first part, a fast difference operation for the ASV process and a data structure for pseudopolyhedra are introduced. A fast difference operation between an object and its convex hull is made possible by the crucial observation it takes only linear time to distinguish them. However, it takes O(NlogN) time to construct a data structure with the proper tags. The data structure supporting the operation is a pseudopolyhedron, capturing the special relationship between an object and its convex hull. That the data structure is linear in space is also shown.
Inhibition of rat hepatic guanylate kinase by 6-thioguanosine-5'-phosphate and 6-selenoguanosine-5'-phosphate.

Abstract Guanylate kinase has been partially purified from rat liver and subjected to isoelectric focusing. Three peaks of enzymic activity at isoelectric points of 4.7, 4.9 and 5.1 were obtained. The greatest amount of activity occurred at pH 4.9 with an over-all purification of about 250.fold. GMP, dGMP and 8-azaGMP act as substrates and no essential differences were detected in the K m and V max values of the three isoelectric focusing peaks. Initial velocity studies with the principal activity peak (pI 4.9), with either GMP or ATP as the changing-fixed substrate, confirmed earlier results with guanylate kinase preparations from hog brain and human erythrocytes and were consistent with either a “random” or “ordered” reaction mechanism. 6-Thioguanosine-5′-phosphate (6-thioGMP) and 6-selenoguanosine-5′-phosphate (6-SeGMP) are good competitive inhibitors of the main activity peak (pI 4.9) with inhibition constants ( K i ) of 6.8 × 10 −5 M and 9.5 × 10 −5 M for 6-thioGMP and 6-SeGMP respectively. No substrate activity was detected for 6-thioGMP or 6-SeGMP with any of the three isoelectric focusing enzyme peaks in assays capable of detecting reaction velocities greater than 1 per cent of that seen with GMP as the substrate.
Cysteine as an Inhibitor of Browning in Pear Juice Concentrate

Pear juice concentrates were prepared from juices treated with 0–2 mM cysteine and color changes of the concentrates were observed during storage at 1°, 21°, and 38°C for 6 months. Initial browning of the concentrates were eliminated by the cysteine treatment of the pear juice. Rate of browning of the concnetrates increased with increasing storage temperature and decreasing cysteine concentration. Cysteine concentration of the concentrates decreased during storage and the rate of decrease was a function of storage temperature. Cysteine appeared to retard the Maillard reaction in the concentrates. No deleterious changes in flavor intensity were noted in the stored cysteine-treated concentrates.
COMPARISON OF THE EFFICACY OF THREE POTENTIAL POULTRY PRESERVATIVES: GLUTARALDEHYDE, IODACETAMIDE, AND POLY (HEXAMETHYLENEBIGUANIDE HYDROCHLORIDE)

Freshly processed poultry carcasses were dipped in 500 ppm solutions of glutaraldehyde, iodoacetamide, and poly (hexamethylenebiguanide hydrochloride), or PHMB, for 2 h. They were then drained, packed in polyethylene bags, and held at the storage temperature of 2°C Total aerobic psychrophile counts and sensory evaluation indicated that the PHMB had the best preservative effect followed by that of iodoacetamide and glutaraldehyde. The shelf-lives of the PHMB, iodoacetamide, and glutaraldehyde-treated birds were found to be 27.4, 21.6, and 15.3 days, respectively, compared to the 10.7 days shelf-life of water-treated controls.
Augmented home exercise program for a 37-year-old female with a clinical presentation of femoroacetabular impingement.

Previous researchers have reported on the use of augmented home exercise programs with potential carry-over effects from manual therapy treatment. While there is no direct evidence to support augmented manual therapy, tangential evidence demonstrates that specific, supervised, and adherent exercises result in improved outcomes. The purpose of this case report is to describe an augmented home program simulating the manual techniques provided by the therapist. A 37-year-old female presented with symptoms and signs consistent with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Grade III lateral and inferior femoral glides decreased reported pain from 5/10 to 0/10. Given the immediate response to hip mobilizations, the patient was prescribed standing lateral glides and supine inferior glides of the hip with the use of a belt. During this time, the patient’s Lower Extremity Functional Scale score improved from 74 to 78 and she reported increased ability to self-manage her symptoms. The immediate report of decreased pain helped determine the specific home program selected for this individual patient. This case highlights the importance of a specific augmented home exercise program unique to the individual patient resulting in self-management of pain associated with FAI.
Pulmonary actions of anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid receptor agonist, in guinea pigs.

Abstract Anandamide (arachidonylethanolamide), 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenamide, ( N -2-hydroxyethyl), was tested for bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory activities. Conscious guinea pigs were given cumulative i.v. doses of anandamide (1.0, 3.0, and 10.0 mg/kg) to assess its effect on dynamic compliance ( C dyn ), total pulmonary resistance ( R L ), tidal volume ( V T ) and breathing frequency ( f ). Other guinea pigs were exposed to an aerosol of A23187 (6 S -[6α(2 S *,3 S *),8β( R *),9β,11α]-5-(methylamino)-2-[[3,9,11-trimethyl-8-[1-methyl-2- oxo -2-(1 H -pyrrol-2-yl)ethyl]-1,7-dioxaspiro[5.5]undec-2-yl]methyl]-4-benzoxazolecarboxylic acid) until C dyn decreased by 50% (∼5 min) and at 20 min, cumulative i.v. doses of anandamide (1.0, 3.0, and 10.0 mg/kg) were administered and reversal of C dyn examined. After the final dose of anandamide, the animals were killed and excised lung gas volumes (ELGV), i.e., pulmonary gas trapping, measured. Other animals were treated i.v. with anandamide (10.0 mg/kg), exposed to an aerosol of A23187 until labored breathing began, and then killed 1 h later. Anandamide did not significantly affect C dyn , R L , V T and f . ELGV values of anandamide-treated guinea pigs were not different from those of vehicle-treated animals. Anandamide failed to reverse A23187-induced decreases in C dyn and to reduce A23187-associated ELGV increases. Also, it did not prevent the prolonged airway obstruction caused by A23187. Histological evaluation revealed that anandamide significantly reduced A23187-related airway epithelial injury and pulmonary leukocytosis. However, it did not prevent A23187-induced peribronchiolar granulocytic accumulation. Our results suggest that in vivo anandamide has minimal direct airway smooth muscle-related actions, however it may possess modest anti-inflammatory properties.
Activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein Arc/Arg3.1 binds to spectrin and associates with nuclear promyelocytic leukemia (PML) bodies

Activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc/Arg3.1) is an immediate early gene, whose expression in the central nervous system is induced by specific patterns of synaptic activity. Arc is required for the late-phase of long-term potentiation (LTP) and memory consolidation, and has been implicated in AMPA receptor trafficking. Since Arc's molecular function remains incompletely understood, we have determined its subcellular localization in cultured hippocampal neurons and HEK 293T cells. Fluorescence microscopy experiments revealed that both endogenous and exogenous Arc protein was primarily found in the nucleus, where it concentrated in puncta associated with promyelocytic leukemia (PML) bodies, proposed sites of transcriptional regulation. Arc co-localized and interacted with the betaIV spectrin splice variant betaSpIVSigma5, a nuclear spectrin isoform associated with PML bodies and the nuclear matrix. A small region of Arc containing the coiled-coil domain is also restricted to beta-spectrin-positive puncta, while the isolated spectrin homology domain is diffusely localized. Finally, Arc and betaSpIVSigma5 synergistically increased the number of PML bodies. These results suggest that Arc functions as a spectrin-binding protein, forming a complex that may provide a role at sites of transcriptional regulation within the nucleus.
Size limitations on the infectibility of mosquito larvae by nematodes during filter-feeding.

Abstract Infective juveniles of the pathogenic nematode Neoaplectana carpocapsae were readily ingested by 4th-instar larvae of the mosquito Culex pipiens, but were ingested relatively poorly by the 3rd instar and were excluded by 2nd and 1st instars. These findings are discussed in relation to previously determined limitations on the ingestibility of latex microspheres of various diameters by the 4 instars of C. pipiens. Although 4th instars may ingest hundreds of nematodes within a few hours, very few successfully establish themselves in the hemocoel. Those worms remaining within the peritrophic membrane commence to disintegrate within a few hours, often leaving no recognizable remains after a day.
The effects of low concentrations of glutaraldehyde on Micrococcus lysodeikticus membranes: Changes in the release of membrane-associated enzymes and membrane structure

Abstract The manner in which enzymes are associated with the plasma membrane of Micrococcus lysodeikticus can be modified in certain instances by the action of an aldehyde cross-linking agent. Enzymes such as ATPase (EC 3.6.1.3), NADH dehydrogenase (EC 1.6.99.3) and polynucleotide phosphorylase (EC 2.7.7.8) can normally be selectively released from the membrane by controlled washing with buffers. This release phenomenon is prevented when membranes are first treated with 0.5% (v/v) glutaraldehyde. Under these conditions the enzymes become more strongly attached to the membrane while retaining activity. In the case of NADH dehydrogenase it can be shown that the total activity is unchanged after its association with the membrane has been strengthened by this treatment. The inhibition of enzyme release is supported by the results of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by the fact that glutaraldehyde treated membranes constitute a larger fraction of total cell protein than untreated cell membranes. Electron microscopy reveals that the selective release of enzymes from untreated membranes is associated with a progressive reduction in granular substructure on the membrane surface. The smooth surfaced residue which remains, contains cytochromes and succinate dehydrogenase and is resistant to further release by washing. Membranes treated with glutaraldehyde retain the granular substructure despite the washing procedures.
Hepatocyte apoptosis: is transforming growth factor-B1 the kiss of death?

In previous studies hepatocytes undergoing cell death by apoptosis but not normal hepatocytes in rat liver showed immunostaining for transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1). Staining was much stronger with antibodies recognizing the pro-region of TGF-β1 than the mature peptide itself. Therefore we investigated the ability of both forms of TGF-β1 to induce apoptosis in primary cultures of rat hepatocytes. Mature TGF-β1 induced rounding up of the cells and fragmentation into multiple vesicles. As revealed by the DNA-specific stain H33258, the chromatin of these cells condensed and segregated into masses at the nuclear membrane; this was obviously followed by fragmentation of the nucleus. Ultrastructurally the cytoplasm was well preserved, as demonstrated by the presence of intact cell organelles. These features strongly suggest the occurrence of apoptosis. Quantification of nuclei with condensed chromatin revealed that mature TGF-β1 was 30-fold more effective than the TGF-β1 latency-associated protein complex. Finally, we administered TGF-β1 in vivousing an experimental model in which regression of rat liver was initiated by a short preceding treatment with the hepatomitogen cyproterone acetate. Two doses of TGF-β1, each 1 nM/kg, augmented the incidence of apoptotic hepatocytes 5-fold. Equimolar doses of TGF-β1 latency-associated protein complex were ineffective. These studies suggest that TGF-β1 is involved in the initiation of apoptosis in the liver and that the mature form of TGF-β1 is the active principle.
DISC1 mouse models as a tool to decipher gene-environment interactions in psychiatric disorders

DISC1 was discovered in a Scottish pedigree in which a chromosomal translocation that breaks this gene segregates with psychiatric disorders, mainly depression and schizophrenia. Linkage and association studies in diverse populations support DISC1 as a susceptibility gene to a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders. Many Disc1 mouse models have been generated to study its neuronal functions. These mouse models display variable phenotypes, some of them relevant to schizophrenia, others to depression. The Disc1 mouse models are popular genetic models for studying gene-environment interactions in schizophrenia. Five different Disc1 models have been combined with environmental factors. The environmental stressors employed can be classified as either early immune activation or later social paradigms. These studies cover major time points along the neurodevelopmental trajectory: prenatal, early postnatal, adolescence, and adulthood. Various combinations of molecular, anatomical and behavioral methods have been used to assess the outcomes. Additionally, three of the studies sought to rescue the resulting abnormalities. Here we provide background on the environmental paradigms used, summarize the results of these studies combining Disc1 mouse models with environmental stressors and discuss what we can learn and how to proceed. A major question is how the genetic and environmental factors determine which psychiatric disorder will be clinically manifested. To address this we can take advantage of the many Disc1 models available and expose them to the same environmental stressor. The complementary experiment would be to expose the same model to different environmental stressors. DISC1 is an ideal gene for this approach, since in the Scottish pedigree the same chromosomal translocation results in different psychiatric conditions.
Investigating the viscous interaction and its role in generating the ionospheric potential during the Whole Heliosphere Interval

Abstract The Whole Heliosphere Interval (WHI), comprising March 20–April 16, 2008 (DOY 80–107), is a single Carrington Rotation (2068) designated for intense study through observations and simulations. We used solar wind data from the WHI to run the Coupled Magnetosphere–Ionosphere–Thermosphere (CMIT) and stand-alone Lyon–Fedder–Mobarry (LFM) models. The LFM model was also run with the WHI solar wind plasma parameters but with zero interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). With no IMF, we expect that the cross-polar cap potential (CPCP) is due entirely to the viscous interaction. Comparing the LFM runs with and without the IMF, we found that during strong driving with southward IMF B z , the viscous potential could be a significant fraction of the total CPCP. During times of northward IMF B z , the CPCP was generally lower than the CPCP value from the IMF=0 run. LFM tends to produce high polar cap potentials, but by using the Bruntz et al. (2012) viscous potential formula ( Φ V = μn 0.439 V 1.33 , where μ =0.00431) and the IMF=0 LFM run, we calculated a scaling factor γ =1.54, which can be used to scale the LFM CPCP during the WHI down to realistic values. The Newell et al. (2008) viscous merging term can similarly be used to predict the viscous potential using the formula: Φ V = νn 1/2 V 2 , where the value ν =6.39×10 −5 was also found using the zero IMF run. Both formulas were found to perform better when V (solar wind)= V x , rather than V total , yielding similar, accurate predictions of the LFM viscous potential, with R 2 >0.91 for both formulas. The γ factor was also used to scale down the LFM CPCP from the full solar wind run, with most of the resultant values matching the CPCP from the Weimer05 model well, even though γ was derived independent of the Weimer05 model or the full LFM data. We interpret this to be an indication that the conductivity model in LFM is producing values that are too low, thus elevating the CPCP values.
Singlet Oxygen Generation from Water-Soluble Quantum Dot-Organic Dye Nanocomposites

Water-soluble quantum dot-organic dye nanocomposites have been prepared via electrostatic interaction. We used CdTe quantum dots with diameters up to 3.4 nm, 2-aminoethanethiol as a stabilizer, and meso-tetra(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphine dihydrochloride (TSPP) as an organic dye. The photophysical properties of the nanocomposite have been investigated. The fluorescence of the parent CdTe quantum dot is largely suppressed. Instead, indirect excitation of the TSPP moiety leads to production of singlet oxygen with a quantum yield of 0.43. The nanocomposite is sufficiently photostable for biological applications.
Fusobacterium spondylodiscitis: case report and literature review

Fusobacteria are obligate anaerobic bacilli residing in the oral cavity, female genital tract, and intestine. These pathogens are typical components of head, neck, and abdominal abscesses due to contiguous spread from adjacent mucosal surfaces. They are unusual etiologies, however, of bone and joint infections, particularly outside the cranial region. We report an unusual case of hematogenous lumbar spondylodiscitis caused by Fusobacterium nucleatum of suspected odontogenic origin.
Restriction of the Conformational Dynamics of the Cyclic Acyldepsipeptide Antibiotics Improves Their Antibacterial Activity

The cyclic acyldepsipeptide (ADEP) antibiotics are a new class of antibacterial agents that kill bacteria via a mechanism that is distinct from all clinically used drugs. These molecules bind and dysregulate the activity of the ClpP peptidase. The potential of these antibiotics as antibacterial drugs has been enhanced by the elimination of pharmacological liabilities through medicinal chemistry efforts. Here, we demonstrate that the ADEP conformation observed in the ADEP–ClpP crystal structure is fortified by transannular hydrogen bonding and can be further stabilized by judicious replacement of constituent amino acids within the peptidolactone core structure with more conformationally constrained counterparts. Evidence supporting constraint of the molecule into the bioactive conformer was obtained by measurements of deuterium-exchange kinetics of hydrogens that were proposed to be engaged in transannular hydrogen bonds. We show that the rigidified ADEP analogs bind and activate ClpP at lower concentratio...
Controlling Molecular Synthesis in the Solid State Using Linear Templates

Molecules that function as linear templates are promising tools for gaining control of chemical reactivity that approaches the nanometer-scale level, and beyond (i.e. > 10 A) [1,2]. Such molecules possess an ability to deliberately juxtapose, and, in doing so, force two reactant molecules in position for reaction. Such control of reactivity is achieved, similar to proteins and DNA [1], by way of molecular assembly processes involving noncovalent forces (e.g. hydrogen bonds), which enables reactions to proceed with regio- and stereocontrol not displayed by an individual reactant molecule.
Temperature-dependent wave function renormalization and weak interaction rates prior to nucleosynthesis

We present a general prescription for the effects of medium-dependent wave function renormalization on rates of reactions involving a Dirac particle. The result is applied to the corrections of order {ital e}{sup 2} to the weak interaction rates prior to nucleosynthesis, due to the thermal photon and {ital e}{sup +}{ital e}{sup {minus}} baths. The results coming from the standard {open_quote}{open_quote}finite temperature{close_quote}{close_quote} corrections in the literature, a decrease of the predicted He abundance by 0.16{percent}, are found to be replaced by an increase of 0.02{percent}. But there are indications that plasma corrections that are not included at the {ital e}{sup 2} level may be more important than these corrections. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
Magnetic orientation by hatchling loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) from the Gulf of Mexico

Loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings emerge from nests on either the east or west coast of the South Florida peninsula and then migrate offshore in opposite directions. Under laboratory conditions, magnetic cues induce east coast hatchlings to swim in directions that promote their transport by oceanic surface currents, such as the North Atlantic gyre. However, the surface currents used by west coast hatchlings are unknown. We examined the responses of west (Sarasota) hatchlings to magnetic cues in the Gulf of Mexico, the Florida Straits, and the Gulf Stream to determine their (1) likely migratory routes (2) orientation where currents lead into the Atlantic Ocean, and (3) orientation adjacent to Florida’s east coast. The results suggest that migration inside Gulf waters may be circuitous, that the turtles respond appropriately to enter Atlantic waters, and that orientation along Florida’s east coast probably promotes transport by the Gulf Stream into the North Atlantic gyre.
Capital flight from China: 1984–2001

Abstract This study provides a range of estimates for capital flight using both balance of payments and the residual measures for the People's Republic of China (PRC; 1984–2001) and Hong Kong (1998–2001). These measures are adjusted to reflect the legitimate assets of the banking industry, misinvoicing of PRC and Hong Kong trade with their major trading partners, and the failure of official debt data to capture certain bank transactions. During the period 1998–2001, the adjusted measures are consistent with a cumulative capital flight of approximately $920 billion for the PRC and about $60 billion for Hong Kong. Based on the adjusted capital flight data for the PRC, the capital control policies adopted in 1998–1999 were not as effective a reducing capital flight as was originally believed. To a significant extent, the restrictions on certain financial transactions simply changed the methods used for capital flight.
Glycosaminoglycans of predentin, peritubular dentin, and dentin: a biochemical and electron microscopic study.

Abstract The glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content of human predentin, peritubular dentin, and dentin was investigated. Predentin and peritubular dentin contain more GAG than dentin proper. The role of GAG in dentin formation and pathosis is discussed.
Chronic overexpression of the calcineurin inhibitory gene DSCR1 (Adapt78) is associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract The DSCR1(Adapt78) gene was independently discovered as a resident of the “Down syndrome candidate region”and as an “adaptive response”shock or stress gene that is transiently induced during oxidative stress. Recently the DSCR1 (Adapt78) gene product was discovered to be an inhibitor of the serine/threonine phosphatase, calcineurin, and its signaling pathways. We hypothesized thatDSCR1 (Adapt78) might also be involved in the development of Alzheimer's disease. To address this question we first studiedDSCR1 (Adapt78) in multiple human tissues and found significant expression in brain, spinal cord, kidney, liver, mammary gland, skeletal muscle, and heart. Within the brain DSCR1 (Adapt78) is predominantly expressed in neurons within the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, substantia nigra, thalamus, and medulla oblongata. When we compared DSCR1 (Adapt78) mRNA expression in post-mortem brain samples from Alzheimer's disease patients and individuals who had died with no Alzheimer's diagnosis, we found that DSCR1 (Adapt78) mRNA levels were about twice as high in age-matched Alzheimer's patients as in controls.DSCR1 (Adapt78) mRNA levels were actually three times higher in patients with extensive neurofibrillary tangles (a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease) than in controls. In comparison, post-mortem brain samples from Down syndrome patients (who suffer Alzheimer's symptoms) also exhibited DSCR1 (Adapt78) mRNA levels two to three times higher than controls. Using a cell culture model we discovered that the amyloid β1–42 peptide, which is a major component of senile plaques in Alzheimer's, can directly induce increased expression of DSCR1 (Adapt78). Our findings associate DSCR1 (Adapt78) with such major hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease as amyloid protein, senile plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles.
Structural analysis of the Hox-3.1 transcription unit and the Hox-3.2-Hox-3.1 intergenic region.

Abstract The mouse Hox gene family is a set of mammalian homeobox genes that may represent developmental control genes. Complete information about the primary structure of these genes is a prerequisite for a systematic analysis of the mechanisms that determine their complex tempero-spatial expression patterns. In this report we describe the complete sequence of the Hox-3.1 locus and provide evidence for several closely spaced transcriptional start sites. Sequence analysis of the 5' region of the Hox-3.1 gene extending to its nearest upstream neighbor, Hox-3.2, allowed us to identify sequences known to be capable of interactions with transcription factors. Several of these sequence motifs are similar to cis-regulatory elements found in the regulatory regions of other known developmentally regulated genes.
A multiple-component order parameter phase field model for anisotropic grain growth

A phase field model for anisotropic grain growth is presented. The model uses multiple-component order parameters to describe the grain orientations. These order parameters are the structural amplitudes related to the star of the shortest reciprocal lattice vectors of the crystalline phase. The free energy of the system is formulated as a Landau expansion of the order parameters, which incorporates the symmetry of the crystalline phase. The spatial and temporal evolution of these order parameters is governed by the time-dependent Ginburg-Landau (TDGL) equations. In this model, the anisotropy is introduced naturally, since the effect of the underlying symmetry is taken into account in both the gradient and bulk terms in the free energy expansion. We consider a simple binary two-phase solid-liquid mixture in two dimensions with the solid having a square lattice. As an example, we studied the growth and morphology of a single solid particle in a liquid. Potential applications of the model to simulating the anisotropic grain growth in single-phase polycrystalline materials as well as in the presence of a liquid phase are discussed.
High-definition displays for realistic simulator and trainer systems

Current flight simulators and trainers do not provide acceptable levels of visual display performance (performance that would allow ground based trainers to economically replace aircraft flying training) for many air-to-air and air-to- ground training scenarios. Ground training for pilots could be made significantly more realistic, allowing the ground-based curricula to be enlarged. The enhanced ground based training could then more readily augment actual aircraft flying (training) time. This paper presents the technology need and opportunity to create a new class of immersive simulator- trainer systems having some 210 million pixels characterized especially by a 20-20 visual acuity synthetic vision system having some 150 million pixels. The same new display technology base is needed for planned crew stations for uninhabited combat air vehicles (UCAV), advanced aircraft cockpits and mission crewstations, and for the space plane.
Low power/low voltage CMOS technologies, a comparative analysis

Abstract Advanced CMOS device and process technologies will be discussed with respect to low power and low voltage performance characteristics based on various device scaling and structure principles. A synopsis of recently published technologies is presented with the purpose of identifying key approaches and analyzing common and diverse features and merits.
VMOE: A Virtual Machine Operating Environment for the Computer Systems Curriculum

A major challenge for computer science educators is to acquaint students with not only the properties of the major components of computer systems, but also with the interactions among these components. Real systems are too complex to serve as examples for these investigations and example systems which have been introduced in the past do not provide the flexibility to deal adequately with the component interactions. The Virtual Machine Operating Environment (VMOE) is an example system, comprised of a virtual hardware environment and a specially designed programming language, which provides a basis for environments in which students can investigate component interactions in a variety of courses. This environment can help focus the attention of faculty and students on the often neglected subject of component interactions.
Effects of wildland development on forest bird communities

Abstract The rapid urbanization of rural landscapes for primary and secondary homes can significantly affect bird populations as wildlands are developed. To study this effect, we conducted bird counts within the Lake of the Ozarks region of central Missouri in three different landscape types: wildlands, dispersed single homes, and cluster development. For each landscape type, we selected five 100 ha forested sites and conducted bird counts during May and June for 2 years. Forest interior migrant species were most abundant in wildland sites and least abundant in cluster development sites. In contrast, cluster development sites were dominated by species generally found in urban residential neighborhoods, and nest predators and brood parasites were more prevalent on these sites than wildland sites.
AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF PAYMENTS TO RESPONDENTS

High refusal rates in urban areas are becoming a serious problem for the survey researcher.' With this problem in mind we conducted an experiment to answer the question: Will the offer of a five-dollar honorarium to respondents increase the probability of their cooperating in a community survey? The idea underlying this approach was not that respondents' time could be bought. Instead, the notion was that the offer of an honorarium, with the provision that it would be contributed to a charity of the respondent's choice if he preferred, might demonstrate the importance attached by the researcher to the respondent's contribution to the study, and, at the same time, possibly provide him with an altruistic motive for participation over and above his contribution to the research. An experiment to test the effect of this offer was executed in connection with a pilot study carried out in the Washington Heights section of Manhattan for the purpose of instrument development. A systematic sample of households2 was drawn from two census tracts which were selected on the basis of 1960 Census data for racial contrast, one being almost entirely Negro and one almost entirely white, and for income heterogeneity within each tract. The study consisted of a panel survey, with two waves of interviewing separated by approximately one year. Heads of households were the designated respondents on the first wave; their spouses were to be interviewed as well on the second wave.