cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novel family of genes encoding putative pheromone receptors in mammals

In mammals, olfactory sensory perception is mediated by two anatomically and functionally distinct sensory organs: the main olfactory epithelium (MOE) and the vomeronasal organ (VNO). Pheromones activate the VNO and elicit a characteristic array of innate reproductive and social behaviors, along with dramatic neuroendocrine responses. Differential screening of cDNA libraries constructed from single sensory neurons from the rat VNO has led to the isolation of a family of about 30 putative receptor genes. Sequence analysis indicates that these genes comprise a novel family of seven transmembrane domain proteins unrelated to the receptors expressed in the MOE. Moreover, the expression of each member of the gene family is restricted to a small subpopulation of VNO neurons. These genes are likely to encode mammalian pheromone receptors.
Microscopic and mesoscopic aspects of laser-induced desorption and ablation

In laser-induced desorption, bonds of isolated atoms or molecules are broken even while neighboring lattice sites remain virtually undisturbed, in a process properly described by microscopic mechanisms of photoexcitation, relaxation and highly localized lattice instabilities. In laser ablation, a substantial fraction of a monolayer is ejected by each laser pulse, and mesoscopic optical and thermoelastic properties come into play. In this paper, bond-orbital theory is shown to provide a natural connection between mesoscale response to incident laser light and microscopic potentials. In the case of laser-induced desorption, it is possible to calculate two-body potentials which describe bond-weakening as electrons are promoted from bonding to anti-bonding orbitals by photon absorption. Scaling of laser ablation thresholds with various mesoscopic parameters can also be described within the framework of the bond-orbital model.
Optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy for in vivo imaging of single capillaries.

Capillaries, the smallest blood vessels, are the distal end of the vasculature where oxygen and nutrients are exchanged between blood and tissue. Hence, noninvasive imaging of capillaries and function in vivo has long been desired as a window to studying fundamental physiology, such as neurovascular coupling. Existing imaging modalities cannot provide the required sensitivity and spatial resolution. We present in vivo imaging of the microvasculature including single capillaries in mice using optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy (OR-PAM) developed in our laboratory. OR-PAM provides a lateral resolution of 5 µm and an imaging depth >0.7 mm.
Direct electrochemical reduction of Dy2O3 in CaCl2 melt

The electrochemical reduction of Dy2O3 in CaCl2 melt was studied. The cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, AC impedance and constant voltage electrolysis were employed. A single cathodic current peak in the cyclic voltammogram and one response semicircle in the AC impedance spectrum were observed, supporting a one-step electrochemical reduction mechanism of Dy2O3. No intermediates were observed by XRD, which confirmed the following electrochemical reduction sequence: Dy2O3 → Dy. The charge transfer resistances and the activation energies involved in the electrochemical reduction step of Dy2O3 were obtained by simulating the AC impedance spectra with equivalent circuits. The electrochemical reduction reaction of Dy2O3 is controlled by the charge transfer process at a low voltage range and by the diffusion process at a high voltage range.
The Chameleon Guitar—Guitar with a Replaceable Resonator

Abstract Each acoustic instrument is one of a kind. Its unique acoustic properties are transferred from the physical characteristics of its source materials and a handcrafted touch. In contrast, electronic and computer-based instruments lack this distinguishing trait. Though the technology support in musical instruments offers great flexibility, it tends to foster predictable and generic results, particularly with common use of easily-cloned digital presets. This paper presents a new approach to the design and fabrication of instruments that combine the advantage of acoustic and electric instruments—hybrid instruments—that exist simultaneously in both physical and digital environments. This approach exploits physical/acoustic properties via a replaceable physical object complemented by a simulated shape or other digital signal manipulation. The key concepts of this approach are presented through an example: The Chameleon Guitar, detailed in this paper along with evaluation from musicians and instrument ma...
Antibodies directed against the chicken type II TGFβ receptor identify endothelial cells in the developing chicken and quail

Due to the availability of the endothelial cell marker QH1, experiments using quail embryos have traditionally been used to trace the endothelial cell lineage and describe the morphologic events of vessel formation. A comparable marker in the chicken has not been available. Here we report that antibodies raised against the extracellular domain of the chicken type II TGFβ receptor (TBRII) preferentially identify endothelial cells in the chick. Endothelial cells can first be identified in the 6-somite chick embryo by TBRII expression. TBRII expression in 12- and 22-somite chick and quail embryos was found to directly correlate with the endothelial QH1 staining pattern in quail. This preferential labeling of endothelial cells persists until at least embryonic day 10 in the chick. These data indicate that antibodies to TBRII are an effective marker of endothelial cells in chick and provide useful reagents for the evaluation of vascular patterning. Dev Dyn 1999;215:79–85. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Identification of a Novel Serum Response Factor Cofactor in Cardiac Gene Regulation

The transcription factor serum response factor (SRF) plays an important role in the regulation of a variety of cardiac genes during development and during adult aging. A novel SRF cofactor, herein called p49/STRAP, for SRF-dependent transcription regulation-associated protein, was recently identified in our laboratory. This protein interacted mainly with the transcriptional activation domain of the SRF protein and was found to bind to SRF or to the complex of SRF and another cofactor, such as myocardin or Nkx2.5. The expression of p49/STRAP affected the promoter activity of SRF target genes in a non-uniform manner. For example, p49 activated MLC2v and cardiac actin promoters when it was co-transfected with SRF, but it repressed atrial natriuretic factor promoter activity, which was strongly induced by myocardin. The p49/STRAP mRNA was observed to be highly expressed in fetal, adult, and senescent human hearts, and also in hearts of young adult and old mice, suggesting that p49/STRAP may be an important SRF cofactor in the transcriptional regulation of mammalian cardiac muscle genes throughout the life span.
Genetics of surface protein variation in Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes the sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea, demonstrates extensive antigenic heterogeneity in its surface components. The organism has the capacity to switch on and off the synthesis of different versions of components such as pili, outer membrane proteins, and lipopolysaccharide. Recent studies have shown that the gonococcus uses novel and complex mechanisms, of types not described previously, to store different versions of genetic information for surface proteins, and to regulate expression of those genes.
Effects of AMPA receptor antagonists on dopamine-mediated behaviors in mice.

Current data indicate that dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmitter systems interact. The role of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid (AMPA) glutamate receptor subtypes in modulating dopamine neurotransmission, however, remains unclear. The noncompetitive AMPA antagonists, GYKI 52466 (5–40 mg/kg) and LY300164 (1–6 mg/ kg), and the competitive AMPA antagonists, LY326325 (5–80 mg/kg) and NBQX (10–80 mg/kg), were compared to the dopamine antagonist, haloperidol (0.03– 1.0 mg/kg), for their ability to inhibit dopamine-mediated behaviors after IP administration in mice. The behavioral paradigms included amphetamine- or dizocilpine-induced hyperactivity, amphetamine-induced stereotyped sniffing, and apomorphine-induced climbing and stereotyped sniffing. All four AMPA antagonists and haloperidol attenuated amphetamine- and dizocilpine-induced hyperactivity and decreased spontaneous locomotion. Haloperidol and GYKI 52466 were more potent against amphetamine than against dizocilpine. In contrast, LY326325 was more potent against dizocilpine than against amphetamine. The hyperactivity decreases by LY300164 and NBQX were most likely due to non-specific effects on motor behavior. The AMPA antagonists and haloperidol also attenuated amphetamine- induced stereotypy. Unlike haloperidol, however, GYKI 52466, LY300164, and NBQX failed to attenuate apomorphine-induced climbing and stereotyped sniffing. LY326325, on the other hand, attenuated apomorphine-induced stereotypy, but not climbing. These results indicate that AMPA receptor antagonists can attenuate the behavioral effects of drugs, such as amphetamine and dizocilpine, that increase dopamine neurotransmission. However, the behavioral effects of the direct dopamine agonist apomorphine are not consistently attenuated by AMPA antagonists. The competitive AMPA receptor antagonist LY326325 appears to have a profile distinct from both haloperidol and the other AMPA antagonists tested.
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis : an update

Recurrent aphthous ulceration or recurrent aphthous stomatitis is the most common oral mucosal disease known to human beings. Despite much clinical and research attention, the causes remain poorly understood, the ulcers are not preventable, and treatment is symptomatic. The most common presentation is minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis: recurrent, round, clearly defined, small, painful ulcers that heal in 10 to 14 days without scarring. Major recurrent aphthous stomatitis lesions are larger (greater than 5 mm), can last for 6 weeks or longer, and frequently scar. The third variety of recurrent aphthous stomatitis is herpetiform ulcers, which present as multiple small clusters of pinpoint lesions that can coalesce to form large irregular ulcers and last 7 to 10 days. Diagnosis of all varieties is usually made after clinical examination. Many local and systemic factors have been associated with these conditions, and there is evidence that there may be a genetic and immunopathogenic basis for recurrent aphthous ulceration. Management of this condition depends on the clinical presentation and symptoms and includes analgesic, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory drugs. As dental clinicians and researchers become better trained in oral medicine and stomatology, it is anticipated that the pathophysiology, prevention, and treatment of recurrent aphthous ulceration will improve in the future.
Integration of remote sensing and population data: Lessons from the NASA Socioeconomic data and applications center

Many of the core research questions of the anthropocene are spatial in nature, and require spatial data integration to provide the answers: Where are populations most vulnerable to environmental changes located? How do global environmental changes affect people, ecosystems or production systems in a given location? What are the impacts of human activities in the coastal zone, or mountainous areas, or drylands? This paper provides examples of the integration of remotely sensed biophysical data with population data that illustrate the benefits of spatial data integration. It also addresses some of the challenges in integrating data developed at different scales and for different purposes, sharing lessons learned from twenty years of operating the NASA Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center (SEDAC).
An optimal algorithm for finding minimal enclosing triangles

Abstract Klee and Laskowski's O ( n log 2 n ) algorithm for finding all minimal area triangles enclosing a given convex polygon of n vertices is improved to Θ ( n ), which is shown to be optimal both for finding all minima and for finding just one.
Hypercalcemia and Increases in Serum Hormone Value during Prolonged Administration of 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D

PREVIOUS studies have indicated that in pseudohypoparathyroidism there is a defect in the renal production of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. The mean concentration of the hormone in the circulation is abnormally low.1 , 2 We have reported in short-term studies that impaired intestinal absorption of calcium, hypocalcemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism can be corrected by small doses of 14α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.1 , 3 We now describe some complications of the long-term use of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in pseudohypoparathyroidism. We find that increases in serum 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 may occur after its prolonged administration, and that these increases in hormone value are associated with hypercalcemia. The increased . . .
Properties of /spl Delta/-trees and their relationship with peripheral trees

/spl Delta/-trees of a graph have been introduced in the recent past for applications in the areas of logic synthesis and formal hardware verification together with an algorithm for their determination. We focus on the theory of /spl Delta/-trees; in particular, we illustrate the fundamental properties of this new kind of tree, and we study its relationship with peripheral trees. >
Iodothyronine Deiodination Reaction Types in Several Rat Tissues: Effects of Age, Thyroid Status, and Glucocorticoid Treatment*

Two types of iodothyronine 5'-deiodination have been characterized previously in rat tissues. They can be distinguished by inhibition of type I but not type II by 6-n-propylthiouracil, by the relative suitability of T4 and rT3 as substrates, rT3 much better than T4 for type I and T4 as good as, or better than, rT3 for type II, and by the concentration of T4 required to inhibit deiodination of rT3, 1-10 microM for type I and 1-10 nM for type II. Type I activity (6-n-propylthiouracil sensitive) is most abundant in liver and kidney. Type II activity has, to date, been identified only in the pituitary, central nervous system, and brown adipose tissue. Iodothyronine tyrosyl deiodination has also been identified in homogenates of rat brain, liver, and placenta. It is not clear how many different enzymes carry out this latter reaction. In the present studies, we have extended previous work by determining maturational patterns of the deiodinating pathways in several thyroid hormone-responsive rat tissues, possible modulation of those patterns by glucocorticoids, and the age of onset of responsivity of the deiodinases to hypothyroidism. Iodothyronine 5'-deiodinating activity was found in rat lung and eye, and the reaction was all or nearly all type I in both. Activity in the eye was virtually absent from the lens and vitreous humor. In immature rat cerebrum, pituitary, lung, and eye, between gestational day 17 and postnatal day 21, there was a uniform pattern of an increase in type I 5'-deiodination activity over time, until adult levels were attained. The ages at which adult activity levels were reached varied from tissue to tissue, however. Type II activity was present at the earliest ages tested in the cerebrum (gestational day 17), pituitary, and brown adipose tissue (day of birth). In cerebral cortex, type II activity was highest at day 21 postnatally and equal at birth and in adulthood, and in pituitary and brown adipose tissue it was higher in adulthood than at birth. T3 tyrosyl ring deiodinating activity was several times greater in homogenates of eye and placenta than in cerebral homogenates. In all three tissues, there was similar, dose-dependent inhibition of [125I]T3 tyrosyl deiodination by 5 nM and 20 nM nonradioactive T3. In the eye and brain, T3 tyrosyl deiodination rates decreased progressively with age from gestational day 17 to postnatal day 7.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Single-molecule sequence detection via microfluidic planar extensional flow at a stagnation point

We demonstrate the use of a microfluidic stagnation point flow to trap and extend single molecules of double-stranded (ds) genomic DNA for detection of target sequences along the DNA backbone. Mutant EcoRI-based fluorescent markers are bound sequence-specifically to fluorescently labeled ds λ-DNA. The marker–DNA complexes are introduced into a microfluidic cross slot consisting of flow channels that intersect at ninety degrees. Buffered solution containing the marker–DNA complexes flows in one channel of the cross slot, pure buffer flows in the opposing channel at the same flow rate, and fluid exits the two channels at ninety degrees from the inlet channels. This creates a stagnation point at the center of a planar extensional flow, where marker–DNA complexes may be trapped and elongated along the outflow axis. The degree of elongation can be controlled using the flow strength (i.e., a non-dimensional flow rate) in the device. Both the DNA backbone and the markers bound along the stretched DNA are observed directly using fluorescence microscopy, and the location of the markers along the DNA backbone is measured. We find that our method permits detection of each of the five expected target site positions to within 1.5 kb with standard deviations of <1.5 kb. We compare the method's precision and accuracy at molecular extensions of 68% and 88% of the contour length to binding distributions from similar data obtained via molecular combing. We also provide evidence that increased mixing of the sample during binding of the marker to the DNA improves binding to internal target sequences of dsDNA, presumably by extending the DNA and making the internal binding sites more accessible.
Complex dielectric properties of macroemulsions using a calibrated microwave resonance dielectrometer

Abstract A microwave cavity resonance dielectrometer has been employed in a study of the complex dielectric properties of macroemulsions consisting of oil, water, and stabilizing surfactant. A method for the simultaneous determination of emulsion type and water content from complex dielectric measurements is described. Also presented is a reference calibration technique for the microwave dielectrometer, which permits a convenient experimental routine and quite accurate dielectric measurements if referenced to exact standards. A voltage ratio technique is described which allows accurate measurement of both low- and high-loss samples in the same cavity.
31P NMR spectroscopy in vivo of two murine tumor lines with widely different fractions of radiobiologically hypoxic cells.

SummaryEnergy and lipid metabolism as well as tumor pH in two murine tumor lines, the KHT and RIF-1 sarcomas, were studied using 31P NMR spectroscopy. Possible relationships between spectral parameters on the one hand and volume fraction of necrosis and fraction of radiobiologically hypoxic cells on the other were investigated. For both tumor lines the PCr and NTPβ resonances decreased and the Pi resonance increased significantly with increasing tumor volume in the volume range 100–4000 mm3. This decrease in bioenergetic status was accompanied by a decrease in tumor pH from about 7·2 to about 6·8. The NTPβ resonance and the tumor pH tended to be somewhat higher and the Pi resonance somewhat lower for the KHT than for the RIF-1 tumors. Linear relationships were found between tumor pH and Pi or (PCr + NTPβ)/Pi for both tumor lines (P ≪ 0·05). The PME resonance increased slightly and the PDE resonance decreased slightly during tumor growth and were not significantly different for the KHT and the RIF-1 tumors...
Correlation Between Gait, Balance, and Age When People Are Standing and Walking in Normal, Subdued, and No Light Conditions

Balance and gait are impaired as people age but no study has examined both in the same subjects in normal lighting versus a dimly lit room. Fourteen young subjects (ages 18–30) and 15 older subjects (age range 40–68) were examined under conditions of full light, no light, and low light (5 candle power). Balance was assessed during standing by a computerized posturography device. Gait was analyzed during the initiation of movement, while walking at uniform speed and during turns of 0.66 meters diameter through accelerometers, foot contact sensors and the electromyogram recorded from the gastrocnemius and tibialus anterior muscles. Older subjects had poorer balance during standing in diminished light and no light conditions compared to the response of the younger subjects. When the room light was dimmed, sway during standing increased by an average of 13% in the older subjects. Younger subjects did not have different sway with diminished light compared to the other lighting conditions. Gait was slower, circ...
Seeds of Success and Failure: Policy Development and Implementation of the 1978 Civil Service Reform Act

The implementation of a public policy is linked closely to the initial development of that policy. Any examination of the implementation of the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 should be based on a firm understanding of the factors which affected the formulation and adoption of that legislation. These factors shaped the nature of the Act in specific ways which may hinder or aid attempts to achieve the purposes of the law. A review of the factors involved indicates that the prospects for successful implementation of the Civil Service Reform Act are somewhat favorable but that much uncertainty still exists over whether the policy adopted will be able to attain its goals in light of changed political circumstances in Washington.
Health sector trends around the world.

This unexpected assignment could have taken a year instead of the month available. But as I now view it, with more time for documentation, specifics might have overwhelmed the more relevant generalizations of which the specifics were supposed to be illustrative. I was fortunate in being partially primed for the task as I had recently attended a 26 European nation, WHO-sponsored, week-long conference on “Planning and Management for Health for All by the Year 2000” (HFA 2000).
Ancillary techniques in the followup of transitional cell carcinoma: a comparison of cytology, histology and deoxyribonucleic acid image analysis cytometry in 91 patients.

AbstractPurpose: Voided urine and bladder washing cytology are used frequently in the evaluation of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. As part of an ongoing investigation we report on the role of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) image analysis cytometry as an adjunct to cytology in the followup of patients with transitional cell carcinoma.Materials and Methods: Urine cytology and image analysis cytometry were performed independently on aliquots of voided urine, catheterized urine or bladder washings from 91 patients with previous or active transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder, and the results were compared to those of concurrent biopsy and clinical followup.Results: Of 75 recurrent transitional cell carcinomas 42 were detected by cytology, while 63 and 64 were identified by image analysis cytometry and biopsy, respectively, for a sensitivity of 57, 84 and 85 percent, respectively. Combined cytology and image analysis cytometry detected 67 recurrences, for an overall sensitivity of 89 percent. Of...
Adhesion in Candida spp

Summary Microbial adherence is one of the most important determinants of pathogenesis, yet very few adhesins have been identified from fungal pathogens. Four structurally related adhesins, Hwp1, Ala1p/Als5p, Als1p, from Candida albicans and Epa1p from Candida glabrata, are members of a class of proteins termed glycosylphosphatidylinositol-dependent cell wall proteins (GPI-CWP). These proteins have N-terminal signal peptides and C-terminal features that mediate glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) membrane anchor addition, as well as other determinants leading to attachment to cell wall glucan. While common signalP/GPI motifs facilitate cell surface expression, unique features mediate ligand binding specificities of adhesins. The first glimpse of structural features of putative adhesins has come from biophysical characterizations of the N-terminal domain of Als5p. One protein not in the GPI-CWP class that was initially described as an adhesin, Int1p, has recently been shown to be similar to Bud4p of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in primary amino acid sequence, in co-localizing with septins and in functioning in bud site selection. Progress in understanding the role of adhesins in oroesophageal candidiasis has been made for Hwp1 in a study using beige athymic and transgenic ɛ26 mice that have combined defects in innate and acquired immune responses. Searches of the C. albicans genome for proteins in the GPI-CWP class has led to the identification of a subset of genes that will be the focus of future efforts to identify new Candida adhesins.
Prevalence of moderate or severe left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in persons with suspected myocardial ischemia with and without an abnormal adenosine or exercise sestamibi stress test or coronary revascularization

We investigated in 335 patients (mean age-63 year) with suspected myocardial ischemia the prevalence of moderate or severe left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in patients with an abnormal adenosine or exercise sestamibi stress test (SST) or prior coronary revascularization and in patients with a normal SST and no prior coronary revascularization. Moderate or severe LVDD was present in 117 of 142 patients (82%) with an abnormal SST or prior coronary revascularization and in 111 of 193 patients (58%) with a normal SST and no prior coronary revascularization (p < 0.001). Moderate or severe LVDD was present in 34 of 38 patients (89%) with an abnormal SST or prior coronary revascularization and an abnormal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and in 4 of 8 patients (50%) with a normal SST and no prior coronary revascularization and an abnormal LVEF (p < 0.01).
Highly active and stable iron Fischer-Tropsch catalyst for synthesis gas conversion to liquid fuels

A precipitated iron Fischer−Tropsch (F−T) catalyst (100 Fe/3 Cu/4 K/16 SiO2 on mass basis) was tested in a stirred tank slurry reactor under reaction conditions representative of industrial practice using CO-rich synthesis gas (260 °C, 1.5−2.2 MPa, H2/CO = 2/3). Repeatability of performance and reproducibility of catalyst preparation procedure were successfully demonstrated on a laboratory scale. Catalyst productivity was increased by operating at higher synthesis pressure while maintaining a constant contact time in the reactor and through the use of different catalyst pretreatment procedures. In one of the tests (run SA-2186), the catalyst productivity was 0.86 (g hydrocarbons/g Fe/h) at syngas conversion of 79%, methane selectivity of 3% (weight percent of total hydrocarbons produced), and C5+ hydrocarbon selectivity of 83 wt %. This represents a substantial improvement in productivity in comparison to state-of-the-art iron F−T catalysts. This catalyst is ideally suited for production of high-quality d...
Identity Construction and Negotiation Within and Across School Communities: The Case of One English-as-a-New-Language (ENL) Student

Through a theoretical framework that builds on constructs of identity, community of practice, power relations, and investment (Blackledge & Pavlenko, 2001; Gee, 2001; Norton, 2000; Peirce, 1995; Wenger, 1998), this educational ethnographic study (Preissle, 1999) explores one English-as-a-new-language (ENL) student's identities within and across three different school communities. An analysis of the communities of practice shows that the power relations are largely shaped by institutional, instructional, and discursive practices in each community. While the community constructs their identities, community members also negotiate their positioning and investment in learning. Further, members may encounter identity conflicts across different school communities. Theoretical considerations for broadening the understanding of identity are proposed. Suggestions are made for educators to construct collaborative power relations within and across school communities in order to empower diverse students and create pos...
Carbon monoxide generation from tin- and zinc-protoporphyrin by tissue homogenates.

Abstract Both heme and tin-protoporphyrin (TP), but not zincprotoporphyrin (ZP), supported significant NADPH-stimulated, concentration-dependent CO production in all tissues. These rates, for 400 μM substrate, ranged: for heme 0.52 (intestine) to 4.18 (spleen); for TP 0.08 (kidney) to 0.71 (liver); and for ZP 0.01 (liver) to 0.25 (kidney) nmoles CO/hr/mg protein. All three metalloporphyrins (400 μM) supported concentration-dependent CO production in the absence of NADPH. The rates ranged: for heme 0.31 (kidney) to 0.80 (spleen); for TP 0.41 (kidney) to 1.04 (intestine); and for ZP 0.12 (kidney) to 0.51 (spleen) nmoles/hr/mg protein. We conclude that both TP and ZP are subject to in vitro degradation by 13,000 × g supernatants of adult rat organs via CO-producing reactions.
The Nursing Terminology Summit Conferences: a case study of successful collaboration for change

The Nursing Terminology Summit, a series of invitational conferences and ongoing collaboration, has played both initiating and contributing roles to bring about a second-order change in the development and integration of standards for nursing terminology. What factors enabled this success? What factors made change difficult? This paper examines the structure and process of the Nursing Terminology Summit using concepts, principles, theories, and strategies identified in Lorenzi and Riley [Organizational Aspects of Health Informatics: Managing Technological Change, Springer, 1995]. As a case study, this critical analysis offers practical lessons for informaticians in managing change across disciplinary, organizational, and national boundaries.
Intrafamilial patterns reported by young type A versus type B males and their parents.

Abstract Retrospective reports regarding parent-child and parent-parent relations during the childrearing years were obtained from adult informants. Male undergraduates typed as As or Bs completed the Clarke Parent/Child Relations Questionnaire augmented with items of likely relevance to A/B. Parallel data were obtained from a subset of subjects' fathers and mothers. Type A and B groups were not different on numerous variables, including parental aggressiveness, vague or escalating standard-setting, or work orientedness. Type A sons were more inclined to view their fathers as attaching great importance to achievement, as setting hard-to-meet expectations, as being unimpressed with son's achievements, and as relating in a competitive way. Differences regarding sons' perceptions of mother were less marked. It is not yet clear to what extent these perceptions (particularly the sons' perceptions of their fathers) are accurate and may thus have played a role in the development of A/B differences, or instead re...
The PAPERCUFF, a new disposable blood pressure cuff

Abstract In conclusion, the CAS PAPERCUFF was at least comparable, if not slightly preferable, to the other cuffs tested and should provide accurate clinical data to the physician and limit the possibility of the spread of infection, especially human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis.
A survey on algortthmic aspects in preventive maintenance

Abstract The dynamic behaviour of a system can be described by a Markov process. In particular, if the transition probability of a system is known, then some operating characteristics of the process can be derived. Furthermore, there are algorithms that determine an optimal maintenance policy. We give a survey on the different algorithmic aspects on various problem instances.
Correlations between Dikes of the Monument Swarm, Central Oregon, and Picture Gorge Basalt Flows

Samples from 39 dikes and 11 other intrusive bodies of the Monument dike swarm in central Oregon were analyzed by instrumental neutron activation analysis. All but two of the dikes have distinctive trace element compositions that clearly identify them as possible sources for the basalt flows at the Picture Gorge type section and equivalent or stratigraphically lower flows elsewhere in the region. The correlations are supported by paleomagnetic polarity measurements and by major element analyses of nine of the samples.
Offspring development mode and the evolution of brood parasitism

In the evolution of interspecific social parasites, the shift from facultative to obligate brood parasitism is thought to be driven by the cost of parental investment. Accordingly, avian brood parasites with precocial young are almost exclusively facultative parasites, whereas those with altricial young are almost exclusively obligate parasites. Surprisingly, then, North American cuckoos (Coccyzus spp.) have altricial young but are described as facultative brood parasites. Because little is known about parasitism by Coccyzus cuckoos, we explored the potential importance of heterogeneric brood parasitism to their reproductive strategy. In contrast to the existing set of anecdotal reports of cuckoos parasitizing songbirds, we found no evidence of cuckoo parasitism in 10 197 songbird nests, despite spatial and temporal overlap between cuckoos and potential hosts and despite varied food availability. Experiments revealed a lack of egg-rejection behavior in some of the most common potential hosts, suggesting that parasitic eggs would be accepted if laid and that we would detect cuckoo parasitism if it occurred regularly. We propose that reports of Coccyzus cuckoos parasitizing songbirds stem from errant attempts to parasitize other cuckoos. This resolves a theoretical paradox about interspecific parasitism and mode of offspring development, as we suggest that Coccyzus cuckoos have not evolved to parasitize other species. Key words: altricial, brood parasitism, cuckoo, facultative, obligate, precocial. [Behav Ecol]
Challenges of intervehicle ad hoc networks

Intervehicle communication (IVC) networks, a subclass of mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs), have no fixed infrastructure and instead rely on the nodes themselves to provide network functionality. However, due to mobility constraints, driver behavior, and high mobility, IVC networks exhibit characteristics that are dramatically different from many generic MANETs. This paper elicits these differences through simulations and mathematical models and then explores the impact of the differences on the IVC communication architecture, including important security implications.
Revisiting stochastic loss networks: structures and algorithms

This paper considers structural and algorithmic problems in stochastic loss networks. The very popular Erlang approximation can be shown to provide relatively poor performance estimates, especially for loss networks in the critically loaded regime. This paper proposes a novel algorithm for estimating the stationary loss probabilities in stochastic loss networks based on structural properties of the exact stationary distribution, which is shown to always converge, exponentially fast, to the asymptotically exact results. Using a variational characterization of the stationary distribution, an alternative proof is provided for an important result due to Kelly, which is simpler and may be of interest in its own right. This paper also determines structural properties of the inverse Erlang function characterizing the region of capacities that ensures offered traffic is served within a set of loss probabilities. Numerical experiments investigate various issues of both theoretical and practical interest.
Alternative antenna polarization schemes for satellite-handset links including operator tissue

A major goal of personal communications networks and services is to provide seamless, ubiquitous wireless communications to the user. For the last few years, several providers have pushed to develop and deploy low-earth orbit satellite constellations which are intended to play a major role in providing this desired world-wide coverage. However, it has recently become evident that the design of a transceiver handset which can link with the satellite network as well as the existing cellular infrastructure presents some challenges. This is particularly true of the antenna, which must provide linearly polarized (LP) isotropic coverage at the cellular frequency band and circularly polarized (CP) hemispherical coverage at two distinct satellite bands. The design of such an antenna is complicated by the fact that the user tissue can significantly degrade the antenna radiation characteristics, particularly for CP elements. It appears that several different approaches are under consideration by antenna designers to deal with the tissue-induced pattern degradation. For example, one concept involves simply using a CP element or even a LP element on the handset, and making up for the induced losses by increasing the system gain elsewhere. Other concepts, proposed by those wishing to optimize the link budget, include designing CP antennas which are insensitive to the tissue presence (which proves very difficult), or perhaps using antenna polarization diversity combining to optimize the received signal at the handset. In this paper, we explore the use of CP, LP, and diversity elements (with equal gain and selection combining schemes) and quantify through simulation the performance of each configuration when operated near human tissue.
Development of a microplate assay for the detection of single plaque‐forming units of bacteriophage ΦX174 in crude lysates

Mice containing the ΦX174 am3 transgene can be used for measuring in vivo mutation; however, the single burst analysis method used for distinguishing in vivo mutations from mutations generated during sample processing is labor-intensive. A liquid microplate assay was developed that detects a single mutant plaque-forming unit (PFU) of ΦX174 bacterial virus in the presence of excess nonmutant virus. The assay is based on inhibiting reduction of the tetrazolium dye, MTS, by bacterial cells selective for mutant virus. The assay is performed with crude lysates of infected bacteria and is as accurate as scoring viral plaques on a bacterial lawn. This microplate assay may have application in increasing throughput of the single burst analysis of ΦX174 in transgenic mouse mutation assays. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 41:121–125, 2003. Published 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Experience and real estate investment decision‐making: a process‐tracing investigation

This study investigates the impact of experience upon trained behaviours in real estate investment decision‐making. In a controlled experiment design, two groups of subjects, experts and novices, conduct an evaluation and reach a decision about two investment options. Using a process‐tracing technique, each subject’s behaviour is observed and recorded. Differences between the groups are discovered in relation to some behaviour characteristics, but experience appears not to impact all behaviours. These findings are discussed in relation to the current absence of a universal normative model of real estate investment decision‐making. In an associated component of the study, the belief that monetary compensation is needed in order to render valid results from studies such as this is tested. We find this not to be the case.
Dexmedetomidine-Induced Sedation in Volunteers Decreases Regional and Global Cerebral Blood Flow

UNLABELLED Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha(2)-agonist approved for sedation of critically ill patients. There is little information on the effects of dexmedetomidine on cerebral blood flow (CBF) or intracranial hemodynamics, despite considerable other pharmacodynamic data. We hypothesized that therapeutic doses of dexmedetomidine would decrease CBF. Therefore, nine supine volunteers, aged 24-48 yr, were infused with a 1 micro g/kg IV loading dose of dexmedetomidine, followed by an infusion of 0.2 micro g. kg(-1). h(-1) (LOW DEX) and 0.6 micro g. kg(-1). h(-1) (HIGH DEX). Hemodynamic and CBF (via positron emission tomography) measurements were determined at each experimental time point. Dexmedetomidine decreased both cardiac output and heart rate during and 30 min after drug administration. Blood pressure decreased from 12% to 16% during and after the dexmedetomidine administration. Global CBF was decreased significantly from baseline (91 mL. 100 g(-1). min(-1) [95% confidence interval, 72-114] to 64 mL. 100 g(-1). min(-1) [51-81] LOW DEX and 61 mL. 100 g(-1). min(-1) [48-76] HIGH DEX). This decrease in CBF remained constant for at least 30 min after the dexmedetomidine infusion was discontinued, despite the plasma dexmedetomidine concentration decreasing 40% during this same time period (628 pg/mL [524-732] to 380 pg/mL [253-507]). IMPLICATIONS Dexmedetomidine-induced sedation decreased cerebral blood flow (CBF) by congruent with 33%, which could be due to direct alpha(2)-receptor cerebral smooth muscle vasoconstriction or to compensatory CBF changes caused by dexmedetomidine-induced decreases in the cerebral metabolic rate.
‘A news of feeling as well as fact’ Mourning and memorial in American newsmagazines

When famous people die, the public mourns them primarily in the same forum where they came to ‘know’ them in life – the news media, which become national healers. This study examines how American newsmagazine journalists have covered the deaths of 12 major celebrities. It reveals that this practice did not begin as ‘the Diana phenomenon’, but rather has been taking shape for four decades. The death of Diana, and more recently that of JFK Jr, were the same journalistic story as the passings of other figures as diverse as Judy Garland, John Lennon, John Wayne, and Elvis Presley. Their lives and deaths were made meaningful through a ritual narrative with consistent themes: the celebrity was ‘one of us’ while also representing our greatest hopes; and though the death was tragic, it reminded us of societal values that somehow had been forgotten. Commemorative journalism reaffirms rather than informs, and its subject is collective identity – social, generational, and national.
Synthesis of amplitude-versus-offset variations in ground-penetrating radar data

To evaluate the importance of amplitude‐versus‐offset information in the interpretation of ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) data, GPR reflections are synthesized as a function of antenna separation using a 2.5-D finite‐difference solution of Maxwell’s equations. The conductivity, the complex dielectric permittivity, and the complex magnetic permeability are varied systematically in nine suites of horizontally layered models. The source used is a horizontal transverse‐electric dipole situated at the air‐earth interface. Cole‐Cole relaxation mechanisms define the frequency dependence of the media. Reflection magnitudes and their variations with antenna separation differ substantially, depending on the contrast in electromagnetic properties that caused the reflection. The spectral character of the dielectric and magnetic relaxations produces only second‐order variations in reflection coefficients compared with those associated with contrasts in permittivity, conductivity, and permeability, so they may not be s...
Synthetic Protocells to Mimic and Test Cell Function

Synthetic protocells provide a new means to probe, mimic and deconstruct cell behavior; they are a powerful tool to quantify cell behavior and a useful platform to explore nanomedicine. Protocells are not simple particles; they mimic cell design and typically consist of a stabilized lipid bilayer with membrane proteins. With a finite number of well characterized components, protocells can be designed to maximize useful outputs. Energy conversion in cells is an intriguing output; many natural cells convert transmembrane ion gradients into electricity by membrane-protein regulated ion transport. Here, a synthetic cell system comprising two droplets separated by a lipid bilayer is described that functions as a biological battery. The factors that affect its electrogenic performance are explained and predicted by coupling equations of the electrodes, transport proteins and membrane behavior. We show that the output of such biological batteries can reach an energy density of 6.9 x 10(6) J m(-3), which is approximately 5% of the volumetric energy density of a lead-acid battery. The configuration with maximum power density has an energy conversion efficiency of 10%.
Genetic analysis of Drosophila neurons: Shal, Shaw, and Shab encode most embryonic potassium currents

In this study, we perform the first genetic analysis of K+ currents in Drosophila embryonic neurons revealing the identity of the currents present. Unlike muscles, where the presence of Shaker is obvious, Shaker currents are not detectable in these neurons. In contrast, we show that Shal is as important in these neuronal cell bodies as Shaker is in muscles. Only three single-channel currents were found, all of which are genetically separable. Shal encodes a 4 pS transient channel. Whole-cell Shal currents have a wide variety of inactivation rates which, in contrast to a mechanism such as heteromultimer formation, is due to single Shal channels assuming different gating modes. Shaw encodes a 42 pS noninactivating channel distinctive for its extremely low voltage sensitivity; Shaw channels have a total equivalent gating charge of 0.90 e- charges, in sharp contrast to 7 e- reported for Shaker channels. An 11 pS slowly inactivating channel also present in these neurons may be encoded by the Shab gene. Thus, of four voltage- dependent K+ channel genes now cloned in Drosophila, all except Shaker appear to be expressed in the cell bodies of these neurons. It is only in Drosophila that a study such as this one can be done. Because Drosophila contains only a single member of each of the four subfamilies of K+ channel genes (unlike mammals), we can eliminate an entire subfamily with a mutation to a single gene. Here, we have examined the effect of eliminating each of three subfamilies. Such a task is presently impossible to accomplish in any mammalian system.
In vivo flow cytometer for real-time detection and quantification of circulating cells

An in vivo flow cytometer is developed that allows the real-time detection and quantification of circulating fluorescently labeled cells in live animals. A signal from a cell population of interest is recorded as the cells pass through a slit of light focused across a blood vessel. Confocal detection of the excited fluorescence allows continuous monitoring of labeled cells in the upper layers of scattering tissue, such as the skin. The device is used to characterize the in vivo kinetics of red and white blood cells circulating in the vasculature of the mouse ear. Potential applications in biology and medicine are discussed.
Fitting an activity-centric system into an ecology of workplace tools

Knowledge workers expend considerable effort managing fragmentation, characterized by constant switching among digital artifacts, when executing work activities. Activity-centric computing (ACC) systems attempt to address this problem by organizing activity-related artifacts together. But are ACC systems effective at reducing fragmentation? In this paper, we present a two-part study of workers using Lotus Activities, an ACC system deployed for over two years in a large company. First, we surveyed workers to understand the ecology of workplace tools they use for various tasks. Second, we interviewed 22 Lotus Activities users to investigate how this ACC tool fits amongst their ecology of existing collaboration tools and affects work fragmentation. Our results indicate that Lotus Activities works in concert with certain other tools to successfully ease fragmentation for a specific type of activity. We identify design characteristics that contribute to this result.
The histone deacetylase inhibitor butyrate downregulates cyclin B1 gene expression via a p21/WAF-1-dependent mechanism in human colon cancer cells.

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are showing promise as treatment for a variety of human cancers, but their precise mechanism of action has not been elucidated. We examined the effects of the ...