cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An automated office for the laboratory scientist

Abstract Development of sophisticated office information facilities for business record-keeping and report generation has created opportunities for automation of information-handling in many other fields. Spreadsheet facilities, specifically LOTUS 1-2-3 on the Zenith Z-100, have been used to automate information-handling tasks in an experimental laboratory: to set up and maintain information in the laboratory notebook, to store and retrieve details about preparation and operation of each experiment in a series, to set up sampling rates and collect sample data from instruments, to perform statistical analysis, to tabulate and graph experiment results. The spreadsheet was used as the controlling facility to change and execute job control macros, to link to BASIC programs that controlled the analogue-digital converter and changed file formats so that the statistics package MICROSTAT could process files produced by the spreadsheet during the experiment. The outcome of the study was a LOTUS 1-2-3 spreadsheet template which can be used in an experimental laboratory.
Analysis And Evaluation Of Sequential Quantizers

In this article, we discuss the performance of sequential quantizers and show that for typical correlated signals a 12-bit uniform quantizer can be replaced by a 6-bit sequential quantizer.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Photometrische Bestimmung mittlerer Kobaltgehalte mit Pyridin-2,6-dicarbonsäure

Mittlere Kobaltmengen von 0,2–10mg lassen sich in einfacher Weise photometrisch bestimmen, indem man das in schwefelsaurer oder salpetersaurer Losung vorliegende Kobalt in Gegenwart von Pyridin-2,6-dicarbonsaure mit Kaliumbromat oxydiert und so in das rotviolette, losliche anionische Bis-(pyridin-2,6-dicarboxylato)-kobalt(III)-chelat uberfuhrt, dessen Lichtabsorption im Bereich des Absorptionsmaximums bei 514 nm gemessen wird. Die meisten Fremdkationen und -anionen storen die Bestimmung nicht, auch wenn sie im Uberschus anwesend sind.
Polyline averaging using distance surfaces: A spatial hurricane climatology

The US Gulf states are frequently hit by hurricanes, causing widespread damage resulting in economic loss and occasional human fatalities. Current hurricane climatologies and predictive models frequently omit information on the spatial characteristics of hurricane movement-their linear tracks. We investigate the construction of a spatial hurricane climatology that condenses linear tracks to one-dimensional polylines. With the aid of distance surfaces, an average hurricane track is calculated by summing polylines as part of a grid-based algorithm. We demonstrate the procedure on a particularly vulnerable coastline around the city of Galveston in Texas, where the tracks of the closest storms to Galveston are also weighted by an inverse distance function. Track averaging is also applied as a means of interpolating possible paths of historical storms where records are sporadic observations, and sometimes anecdotal. We offer the average track as a convenient regional summary of expected hurricane movement. The average track, together with other hurricane attributes, also provides a means to assess the expected local vulnerability of property and environmental damage.
Purification of components required for accurate transcription of ribosomal RNA from Acanthamoeba castellanii.

Abstract The components required for specific transcription of ribosomal RNA were isolated from logarithmically growing Acanthamoeba castellanii. The transcription initiation factor fraction, TIF, and RNA polymerase I were extracted from whole cells at 0.35 M KCl. The extract was fractionated with polyethylenimine, then chromatographed on phosphocellulose (P11) which resulted in the separation of TIF from RNA polymerase I. The fractions containing TIF were further chromatographed on DEAE cellulose (DE52), Heparin Affigel, and Matrex green agarose, followed by sedimentation through glycerol gradients. TIF was purified approximately 17,000-fold, and shown to have a native molecular weight of 289 kD, and to bind specifically to rRNA promoter sequences by DNase I footprinting. The addition of homogeneous RNA polymerase I to this complex permitted the initiation of specific transcription in vitro. The phosphocellulose fractions containing RNA polymerase I were chromatographed on DEAE cellulose, Heparin-Sepharose, DEAE-Sephadex, and sedimented through sucrose gradients. Polymerase I was purified to apparent homogeneity with a yield of 8.1% and a specific activity of 315. It contained one fewer subunit than previously reported. DNase I protection experiments demonstrated that in both partially purified and homogeneous fractions, RNA polymerase I was capable of stable binding to the TIF-rDNA complex, and correctly initiating transcription on rDNA templates.
A Block–Stodola eigensolution technique for large algebraic systems with non‐symmetrical matrices

A Block–Stodola eigensolution method is presented for large algebraic eigensystems of the form AU = λBU where A is real but non-symmetric. The steps in this method parallel those of a previous technique for the case when both A and B were real and symmetric. The essence of the technique is simultaneous iteration using a group of trial vectors instead of only one vector as is the case in the classical Stodola–Vianello iteration method. The problem is then transformed into a subspace where a direct solution of the reduced algebraic eigenvalue problem is sought. The main advantage is the significant reduction of computational effort in extracting a subset of eigenvalues and corresponding eigenvectors. Theorems from linear algebra serve to underlie the basis of the present technique. Complex eigendata that emerge during iteration can be handled without doubling the size of the problem. Higher order eigenvalue problems are reducible to first order form for which this technique is applicable. The treatment of the quadratic eigenvalue problem illustrates the details of this extension.
Binding of Ca2+ and Mg2+ to phosphatidylserine vesicles: different effects on P-31 NMR shifts and relaxation times.

Abstract Phosphorus-31 NMR lines corresponding to inner and outer surfaces of sonicated phosphatidylserine vesicles can be distinguished by the effects of added Ca 2+ or Mg 2+ at low bulk concentrations (millimolar or less). The changes in chemical shift and relaxation times indicate that Ca 2+ binds directly to the PS phosphate, neutralizing at least a portion of the negative charge and restricting the motion of this group. Mg 2+ ion also binds to the head group, but apparently not as strongly as Ca 2+ , nor is the mobility of the headgroup affected as much.
Rethinking political development: A look backward over thirty years, and a look ahead

The article analyzes the rise of the political development approach in comparative politics and the reasons for it. It traces the history of the political development literature and its emergence as the dominant paradigm in the field. It then presents and assesses the critiques, that have been levelled against political development. It also assesses the various alternative approaches that came to supplant political development. The article next presents the factors that have led to a renaissance in political development. It concludes by suggesting that while the political development approach was based on some erroneous assumptions in the short term, from a longer-term perspective that approach looks considerably better.
The diagnosis of fetal esophageal atresia and its implications on perinatal outcome

The current diagnostic accuracy and perinatal outcome of fetuses with esophageal atresia (EA) continues to be debated. In this review, we report on our experience at a tertiary care fetal center with the prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of EA. Enrollment criteria included a small/absent stomach bubble with a normal or elevated amniotic fluid index between 2005 and 2013. Perinatal outcomes were analyzed and compared to postnatally diagnosed EA cases. Of the 22 fetuses evaluated, polyhydramnios occurred in 73 %. Three (14 %) died in utero or shortly after birth, but none had EA. In the presence of an absent/small stomach and polyhydramnios, the positive predictive value for EA was 67 %. In fetal EA cases confirmed postnatally (group 1, n = 11), there were no differences in gestational age, birthweight, or mortality when compared to postnatally diagnosed infants (group 2, n = 59). Group 1 was associated with long-gap EA, need for esophageal replacement, and increased hospital length of stay. When taken in context with the current literature, we conclude that ultrasound findings suggestive of EA continue to be associated with a relatively high rate of false positives. However, among postnatally confirmed cases, there is an increased risk for long-gap EA and prolonged hospitalization.
A description and functional interpretation of the mandibular geometry of Agabus punctatus Melsheimer, 1844, Rhantus calidus (Fabricius, 1792) and Acilius mediatus (Say, 1823), (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae)

Abstract Eleven morphometric, geometric, and/or biomechanical parameters are developed and presented as quantitative descriptors of dytiscid mandibles. These include arc, angle of attack, maximum camber, position of maximum camber, basal angle, and abductor and adductor gear ratios. This quantifiable character set distinguishes mandibles of Acilius from those of Agabus and Rhantus, a likely indication of exploitation of an open water prey regime by larvae of Acilius. Components of this prey regime are probably encountered only rarely by larvae of A. punctatus, and R. calidus. The comparison of A. punctatus, and R. calidus also revealed significant differences between mandibles of these two species with respect to proportional length, arc, angle of attack, and maximum camber. These differences suggest that the prey regimes exploited in situ by larvae of each of these two also includes different prey species.
Immature erythroid cells with novel morphology and cytoskeletal organization in adultXenopus

Nucleated erythrocytes of non-mammalian vertebrates are a useful model system for studying the correlation between changes in cell shape and cytoskeletal organization during cellular morphogenesis. They are believed to transform from spheres to flattened discs to ellipsoids. Our previous work on developing erythroblasts suggested that pointed cells containing incomplete, pointed marginal bands (MBs) of microtubules might be intermediate stages in the larval axolotl. To test whether the occurrence of such pointed cells was characteristic of amphibian erythrogenesis, we have utilized phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced anemia in adultXenopus. In this system, circulating erythrocytes are destroyed and replaced by erythroblasts that differentiate in the blood, making them experimentally accessible. Thus, we followed the time-course of morphological and cytoskeletal changes in the new erythroid population during recovery. During days ∼ 7–9 post-PHZ, pointed cells did indeed begin to appear, as did spherical and discoidal cells. The percentage of pointed cells peaked at days ∼ 11–13 in different animals, subsequently declining as the percentage of elliptical cells increased. Since degenerating “old” erythrocytes were still present when pointed cells appeared, we tested directly whether pointed ones were “old” or “new” cells. Blood was removed via the dorsal tarsus vein, and the erythrocytes washed, fluorescently tagged, and re-injected. In different animals, ∼ 2–8% of circulating erythrocytes were labeled. Subsequent to induction of anemia in these frogs, time-course sampling showed that no pointed cells were labeled, identifying them as “new” cells. Use of propidium iodide revealed large nuclei and cytoplasmic staining indicative of immaturity, and video-enhanced phase contrast and anti-tubulin immunofluorescence showed that the pointed cells contained pointed MBs. The results show that pointed cells, containing incomplete, pointed MBs are a consistent feature of amphibian erythrogenesis. These cells may represent intermediate stages in the formation of elliptical erythrocytes.
Revisiting Computer Image Analysis and Art

The authors comment on and refute several points made in Charles Falco's article regarding computer image analysis and art.
Frequency- and length-dependent tension development in rat heart muscles exposed to isoflurane and halothane

Using 22 isolated rat ventricular muscle preparations, we investigated whether or not the increase in preload and/or contraction frequency may counteract the negative inotropy of both isoflurane (2.0%) and halothane (1.0%). Increases in preload from 94% of Lmax (the length where muscles produce the maximal tension) to Lmax did not alter significantly the percent decrements in tension development caused by either isoflurane or halothane. The increases in contraction frequency from 0.1 to 0.6 Hz augmented the depressant effect of isoflurane significantly (P<0.001), while the depressant effect of halothane was not altered at these contraction frequencies. Small but significant counteraction occurred in the depressant effects of halothane at 0.8 and 1.6 Hz (P=0.002). These changes in intracellular mechanism(s), resulted from the increase in contraction frequency, interacted with the two anesthetics on tension development, while these may not be the case for the increase in preload.
Aβ Plaques Lead to Aberrant Regulation of Calcium Homeostasis In Vivo Resulting in Structural and Functional Disruption of Neuronal Networks

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the deposition of senile plaques and progressive dementia. The molecular mechanisms that couple plaque deposition to neural system failure, however, are unknown. Using transgenic mouse models of AD together with multiphoton imaging, we measured neuronal calcium in individual neurites and spines in vivo using the genetically encoded calcium indicator Yellow Cameleon 3.6. Quantitative imaging revealed elevated [Ca(2+)]i (calcium overload) in approximately 20% of neurites in APP mice with cortical plaques, compared to less than 5% in wild-type mice, PS1 mutant mice, or young APP mice (animals without cortical plaques). Calcium overload depended on the existence and proximity to plaques. The downstream consequences included the loss of spinodendritic calcium compartmentalization (critical for synaptic integration) and a distortion of neuritic morphologies mediated, in part, by the phosphatase calcineurin. Together, these data demonstrate that senile plaques impair neuritic calcium homeostasis in vivo and result in the structural and functional disruption of neuronal networks.
Recent changes in U.S. connection design practice

The 2010 AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360-10) forms the basis for the 14th edition of the AISC Steel Construction Manual. Both publications reflect changes in connection design requirements and practices. This paper summarizes the most relevant changes in connection design requirements and practices made in these latest versions of these documents.
Successful use of transureteroureterostomy to salvage ureterosigmoidostomy after anastomotic failure

Four cases are presented of patients who had undergone ureterosigmoidostomy and in whom a unilateral ureteral anastomotic complication developed that was salvaged subsequently by a transureteroureterostomy. Although other forms of urinary diversion are now being utilized routinely in many centers, the ureterosigmoidostomy is still being employed worldwide, and urologic surgeons need to be versed in its potential problems and how to correct them.
Friedman and gates: Another look

A lack of consensus surrounds probability estimates provided by the two leading bid models, one by Friedman and the other by Gates. Each model relies on essentially the same information but arrives at different probabilities of submitting the winning bid. A synopsis of both Friedman's and Gates's models is provided, followed by a descriptive chronology of literature dealing with this controversy. To date, attempts to resolve this debate have been unsuccessful in formulating a consensus view of which model supplies the correct probability. Using a third bid model proposed by Carr as a base, sensitivity curves visually demonstrate both similarities and differences in the models resulting from hypothetical shifts in the underlying location and scale parameters of the bid problem. It is clear from these curves that both models are simultaneously correct and incorrect. Friedman's model is theoretically correct, yet the bid problem is incorrectly specified. Gates's model is practically correct, yet the formula ...
‘Stolne and Surreptitious’: Heywood as a Test Case

In the eighth and final quarto edition of If You Know Not Me in 1639 Thomas Heywood claims that ‘some by stenography drew / The plot: put it in print, scarce one word true’ so that the text of the first quarto, and therefore all previous quartos, was defective. This article investigates the means by which this ‘piracy’ could have been done and provides an initial testing of such theft using a small portion of the text in performance.
Explaining differences in sub-national patterns of clean technology transfer to China and India

The Kyoto Protocol’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) has the capacity to incentivize the international transfer of environmentally sound technologies. Given that both countries are expected to have similar incentives when managing the distribution of technology transfer within the country, why do sub-national patterns in the allocation of projects with technology transfer differ? Using comparable political–economic data compiled for China and India, we offer an explanation for these differences. In China, where the government regards the CDM as a tool for achieving sustainable development, technology transfer is concentrated in provinces that need it the most and that are most conducive to receiving transfers (i.e., economically less developed, yet heavily industrialized provinces). In India, where the government takes on a “laissez-faire” approach to the CDM, neither level of economic development nor that of industrialization affects clean technology transfer. In this regard, although the incentives are similar, the capacity to pursue them is not comparable. We test these hypotheses using data on CDM technology transfer across Chinese provinces and Indian states during the 6-year period from 2004 to 2010.
Learning to grasp objects with multiple contact points

We consider the problem of grasping novel objects and its application to cleaning a desk. A recent successful approach applies machine learning to learn one grasp point in an image and a point cloud. Although those methods are able to generalize to novel objects, they yield suboptimal results because they rely on motion planner for finger placements. In this paper, we extend their method to accommodate grasps with multiple contacts. This approach works well for many human-made objects because it models the way we grasp objects. To further improve the grasping, we also use a method that learns the ranking between candidates. The experiments show that our method is highly effective compared to a state-of-the-art competitor.
Electroencephalographic study of l-glutamate induced seizures in rats☆

Abstract The ip administration of l -glutamate was found to induce clonic movements and tonic-clonic seizures in rats at a dose level of 2.0 mmole/100 g body weight. The susceptibility to the seizures was not affected by dietary pyridoxine deficiency. The seizure episodes were characterized by 3–5 cps high amplitude spikes ranging from 200 μV/cm to 1000 μV/cm. In the interseizure periods records showed 1 cps high voltage slow waves. The results are discussed in terms of possible biochemical mechanisms operative in the glutamate induced seizures.
A METHOD FOR TESTING THE CORRELATED EVOLUTION OF TWO BINARY CHARACTERS: ARE GAINS OR LOSSES CONCENTRATED ON CERTAIN BRANCHES OF A PHYLOGENETIC TREE?

A method is presented for assessing whether changes in a binary character are more concentrated than expected by chance on certain branches of a phylogenetic tree. It can be used to test for correlated evolution of two characters by asking whether changes in the first character are significantly concentrated on those branches on which the second character has a specified state. Thus, one could test whether this specified state is associated with, and thus might enable or select, gains or losses in the first character. The probability of achieving a concentration as or more extreme than that observed under the null hypotheses that changes are distributed randomly on the cladogram is obtained by calculating (a) the number of ways that n gains and m losses can be distributed on the cladogram and (b) the number of ways that p gains q losses can be distributed on the branches of interest given n gains and m losses in the cladogram overall. Summing (b) for appropriate p and q then dividing by (a) yields the desired probability. Simulations suggest that biases resulting from errors in parsimony reconstructions of ancestral states are not extreme.
IOP-dependent retinal ganglion cell dysfunction in glaucomatous DBA/2J mice.

Purpose: To characterize the effect of postural IOP elevation and pharmacological IOP lowering on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function in the DBA/2J mouse model of glaucoma.
Limiting salt intake

An August 12 report released by Environment Canada concludes that road salts are toxic to the environment. The results of the 5-year assessment indicate that the road salts that Canada typically uses each year pose a risk to lake and stream ecosystems, groundwater, and a variety of plants and animals. While the assessment report calls for road salts to be added to Canada s List of Toxic Substances maintained under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA), Environment Canada states that it is not considering a ban on road salts, and that road safety issues will be considered when adopting any control measures.
Is There Differential Access to Carotid Endarterectomy Based on Gender

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there was differential access to carotid endarterectomy (CEA) based on gender at our institution. In 1995, the year after ACAS results were published, 1774 carotid duplex studies were performed in our vascular laboratory in 765 men and 1009 women. The incidence of 50-99% carotid stenosis was 13% (n = 235) overall and did not differ between men (13.3%; 102/765) and women (13.2%; 133/1009). The frequency that patients subsequently underwent CEA was determined to assess whether men with significant carotid stenosis were more likely to undergo CEA than women. Attempts were made to contact patients with 50-99% stenosis directly. Data were available for 101 patients (41 men, 60 women) with 50-99% carotid stenosis diagnosed by carotid duplex. There was conflicting information regarding the possibility of gender bias in the selection of candidates for CEA: logistic regression analysis suggested that disease severity dictated surgical intervention, however, a significantly lower percentage of women with ICA/CCA peak systolic ratios ≥2.9 underwent CEA. This study cannot refute the possibility that gender bias existed in the selection of patients for CEA.
In search of efficient 5-endo-dig cyclization of a carbon-centered radical: 40 years from a prediction to another success for the Baldwin rules.

Despite being predicted to be stereoelectronically favorable by the Baldwin rules, efficient formation of a C−C bond through a 5-endo-dig radical cyclization remained unknown for more than 40 years. This work reports a remarkable increase in the efficiency of this process upon β-Ts substitution, which led to the development of an expedient approach to densely functionalized cyclic 1,3-dienes. Good qualitative agreement between the increased efficiency and stereoselectivity for the 5-endo-dig cyclization of Ts-substituted vinyl radicals and the results of density functional theory analysis further confirms the utility of computational methods in the design of new radical processes. Although reactions of Br atoms generated through photochemical Ts−Br bond homolysis lead to the formation of cyclic dibromide side products, the yields of target bromosulfones in the photochemically induced reactions can be increased by recycling the dibromide byproduct into the target bromosulfones through a sequence of additio...
Comment on "Does antimatter fall with the same acceleration as ordinary matter?"

A Comment on the Letter by E. G. Adelberger {ital et} {ital al}., Phys. Rev. Lett. 66, 850 (1991).
An object-oriented approach to structural analysis and design

Abstract This paper considers the application of an object-oriented perspective in developing software for structural engineering applications. A basic introduction to object-oriented programming is given followed by an overview of how issues of concurrency and persistence can be addressed and exploited within an object-oriented framework. A more in-depth presentation is then given of a structural analysis program being developed using an object-oriented approach, which provides a further illustration of the usefulness and potential of the object-oriented perspective.
Clinical efficacy and safety of parenteral nutrition in adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa.

Abstract Purpose Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a common chronic disorder characterized by severe malnutrition and psychological disturbances. Parenteral nutrition (PN) is not usually used in nutritional rehabilitation of AN. The aim of our study was to retrospectively evaluate the indications, clinical efficacy, and safety of PN as assessed by short- and long-term outcomes in AN inpatient girls. Methods During the last 10 years a total of 198 inpatients were included in our study: 104 (53%) received oral and parenteral refeeding (group A) and 94 (47%) oral refeeding alone (group B). For each nutritional treatment, clinical efficacy was evaluated by short- and long-term outcomes, and safety was assessed by complication rate. Results Short-term outcome assessment indicated weekly weight gain and maximum caloric intake to be higher in PN-treated patients. Long-term outcome evaluation showed rehospitalization and recovery rate to be similar in the two groups, but failure of first nutritional rehabilitation requiring PN significantly greater in group B (17.5%) than in group A (3%) ( p = .01). The number of complications was significantly higher in group A than in group B ( p = .004), although all complications resolved. Conclusion Among all nutritional rehabilitation strategies, PN offers an alternative and safe way to successfully treat AN patients. Presence of clinical complications and reduced compliance with individual, group, and family therapy seem to be the main indications for PN, as it promptly improves nutritional status. At pediatric and adolescent ages, psychological disturbances can also contraindicate the use of enteral nutrition, and therefore represent an additional indication for PN.
Measurement of complex permittivity and permeability of carbonyl iron powders at microwave frequencies

Experimental results of the complex permittivity and permeability of carbonyl iron powders are presented. It is found that the complex permeability of these samples is quite similar due to the high content of iron while the complex permittivity of the samples is significantly different for various contents of the samples. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 42: 458–459, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20335
Controlled assembly of mesoscale structures using DNA as molecular bridges.

Mesoscale polyhedral structures from binary mixtures of microspheres of specific size ratios were prepared by using DNA as a molecular bridge. Carboxy-modified polystyrene beads were decorated with fluorescently labeled single-stranded DNA via carboxydiimide chemistry. Fluorescent resonance electron transfer in a confocal microscopy setting was utilized to corroborate DNA hybridization. Tetrahedrons were made by combining DNA-containing 0.818 and 0.211 μm beads, while octahedrons were obtained by bridging 0.818 and 0.364 μm beads. Confocal data in the reflection mode and SEM provide evidence for the formation of mesoscale building blocks.
Perforation during indwelling catheter pacing.

Nine patients paced with an indwelling catheter as a preoperative measure prior to synchronous pacer implantation were observed at surgery to have catheter perforation into the pericardium within 1 to 14 days. Such perforation may result from mechanical systole when the catheter tip becomes fixed in the trabeculae carneae of the right ventricular outflow tract and is progressively forced through the thin myocardial wall. Stimulation may be uninterrupted, intermittent, or absent in the presence of catheter perforation. Since hemopericardium has been observed without symptoms or radiologic evidence, the physician should be aware of this possible complication and its potentially serious effect.
Simultaneous detection and quantification of select nitromusks, antimicrobial agent, and antihistamine in fish of grocery stores by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Abstract Continually detected biologically persistent nitromusks; galaxolide (HHCB), tonalide (AHTN) and musk ketone (MK), antimicrobial triclosan (TCS), and antihistamine diphenhydramine (DPH) were examined for the first time in edible fillets originating from eight fish species grown in salt- and fresh-water. The sampled fish collected from local grocery stores were homogenized, extracted, pre-concentrated and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) using selected ion monitoring (SIM). The presence of the target compounds in fish extracts was confirmed based on similar mass spectral features and retention behavior with standards. Internal standard based calibration plots were used for quantification. The HHCB, AHTN, TCS and DPH were consistently observed with concentration of 0.163–0.892, 0.068–0.904, 0.189–1.182, and 0.942–7.472 ng g −1 , respectively. These values are at least 1–3 orders of magnitude lower than those obtained in environmental fish specimens. The MK was not detected in any fish.
EFFECT OF INSTRUCTIONS ON A TWO-CHOICE PROBABILITY LEARNING TASK.

The purpose of this experiment was to determine the differential effects of instructions on a two-choice probability task. One set of instructions emphasized the number correct on each side. Another set of instructions emphasized neither of the above. The results indicated that differences in instructions did not lead to differences in subjective probability for the three groups. All groups tended toward matching behavior.
The synthesis of chemically modified disaccharide derivatives of the Shigella flexneri Y polysaccharide antigen.

Abstract Disaccharide analogs related to the 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-3- O (α- l -rhamnopyranosyl)-β- d -glucopyranose element of the Shigella flexneri Y polysaccharide antigen have been synthesized and used to map the binding site of murine monoclonal antibodies GC-4 and SYA/J6 by solid-phase inhibition assays. N -Acetyl, N -trifluoroacetyl and N -benzyloxycarbonyl derivatives of methyl 2-amino-4,6- O -benzylidene-2-deoxy-β- d -glucopyranoside 1 , 3 and 4 were glycosylated by rhamnopyranosyl bromide and thioglycoside donors 5 and 6 . These in turn provided access to a series of α- l -Rha p -(1 → 3)-β- d -GlcN p -(1 → O)-Me disaccharide glycosides with amino 13 , N -acetyl 10 , N -propionyl 14 , N -pivaloyl 15 , and N -trifluoroacetyl 11 functionalities. Congeners of the disaccharide 10 were synthesized with monodeoxy groups introduced at the C-4 and C-6 positions of the GlcNAc residues and at the C-4′ position of the rhamnose unit. Chlorosulfation of the selectively protected disaccharide 24 , followed by reduction of the 4-chloro-4-deoxy compound 25 , was used to prepare the 4-deoxy congener 27 , while the C-6 and C-4′ deoxy derivatives 31 and 23 were assembled from their respective pre-functionalized monosaccharide building blocks 29 and 19 .
Refraction and dispersion in optical glass

Abstract The reflectivity spectra of representative glasses were analyzed to obtain their uv absorption spectra. From these, we show that the first few inverse moments of the absorption give a good representation of the refractive index for visible light when used with the generalized Cauchy dispersion formula [Radiat. Eff. Def. Sol. 157 (2002) 823]. The absorption spectra also illustrate the roles of modifier ions in determining the visible refractive index. These include introduction of ion-specific absorptions (uv color centers); broadening, shifting and altering the strength of glass-former absorptions; and alteration of the density and structure of the glass' random network.
Characterization of chevron‐shaped permalloy magnetic memory elements by four magnetic imaging techniques

Scanning auger microscopy (SAM) and the recently developed scanning electron microscopy with polarization analysis (SEMPA) are easily combined analytical techniques which provide quantitative submicrometer images of X-, Y-, and Z-axis spin polarization components of magnetization. SAM/SEMPA, along with three established magnetic imaging techniques (Bitter colloidal, longitudinal magneto-optic Kerr microscopy, and the Fresnel mode of Lorentz microscopy), was used to characterize a chevron-shaped permalloy magnetic memory element. Reflected light and secondary electrons were used to image the topography. Auger electrons identified and imaged the elemental composition. Reflected light, transmitted electrons, and secondary electrons were used to image the magnetic microstructure. The Bitter colloidal images showed only the delineation of the domain walls, and the longitudinal magneto-optic Kerr microscopy images produced similar results. The Lorentz microscopy images provided the most qualitative magnetization information. SAM/SEMPA was the only technique to combine elemental information and quantitative magnetization information with images having submicrometer resolution.
The effects of exogenous catalase on broad-spectrum near-UV (300-400 nm) treated Escherichia coli cells.

—Catalase incorporated into plating medium protects against inactivation and mutagenesis by broad-spectrum near-ultraviolet wavelength (300-400 nm) (NUV) radiation in strains of Escherichia coll. Plating medium containing catalase does not provide protection against inactivation by wavelengths in the FUV region. Catalase added to the cell suspension during or added immediately after NUV exposure also protects against inactivation. The protection provided by catalase suggests a possible role for hydrogen peroxide in the processes of inactivation and mutagenesis by broad-spectrum NUV.
Two New Chrysobothris (Buprestidae: Coleoptera)

Male .—Form, size and color of C. deleta Lee, piceous, with bronzy tinge, more strongly shining beneath; pubescence moderate on head, pronotum, ventral surface and legs, sparse on elytra.
A simple correctness proof of the MCS contention-free lock

Abstract Mellor-Crummey and Scott present a spin-lock that avoids network contention by having processors spin on local memory locations. Their algorithm is equivalent to a lock-free queue with a special access pattern. The authors provide a complex and unintuitive proof of the correctness of their algorithm. In this paper, we provide a simple proof that the MCS lock is a correct critical section solution, which provides insight into why the algorithm is correct. We show that each acquire-lock and release-lock operation has a decisive instruction which orders the operations with respect to each other.
Use of interactive exhibits in college physics teaching

One of the main joys in learning physics comes from an enhanced ability to understand and explain natural phenomena in the everyday world. Yet, in formal physics instruction, students encounter natural phenomena only in the laboratory and through lecture demonstrations. In this paper we examine the use of interactive exhibits as another pedagogical means for presenting phenomena and relating these phenomena to everyday experience. Along with the discussion of the nature of such exhibits, we describe an internship program that was designed to train academic faculty in the construction and use of interactive exhibits, and we illustrate some of the ways these faculty use exhibits in their teaching. Finally, we point out some of the constraints and issues that arise when the notion of exhibit‐based learning is introduced into the university setting.
Glomerulopathy and mutations in NPHS1 and KIRREL2 in soft-coated Wheaten Terrier dogs

Dogs of the soft-coated wheaten terrier breed (SCWT) are predisposed to adult-onset, genetically complex, protein-losing nephropathy (average onset age = 6.3 ± 2.0 years). A genome-wide association study using 62 dogs revealed a chromosomal region containing three statistically significant SNPs (praw ≤ 4.13 × 10−8; pgenome ≤ 0.005) when comparing DNA samples from affected and geriatric (≥14 years) unaffected SCWTs. Sequencing of candidate genes in the region revealed single nucleotide changes in each of two closely linked genes, NPHS1 and KIRREL2, which encode the slit diaphragm proteins nephrin and Neph3/filtrin, respectively. In humans, mutations in nephrin and decreased expression of Neph3 are associated with podocytopathy and protein-losing nephropathy. The base substitutions change a glycine to arginine in the fibronectin type 3 domain of nephrin and a proline to arginine in a conserved proline-rich region in Neph3. These novel mutations are not described in other species, nor were they found in 550 dogs of 105 other breeds, except in 3 dogs, including an affected Airedale terrier, homozygous for both substitutions. Risk for nephropathy is highest in dogs homozygous for the mutations (OR = 9.06; 95 % CI = 4.24–19.35). This is the first molecular characterization of an inherited podocytopathy in dogs and may serve as a model for continued studies of complex genetic and environmental interactions in glomerular disease.
Integrating service design principles and information technology to improve delivery and productivity in public sector operations: The case of the South Carolina DMV

Abstract One relatively unanswered question regarding operational efficiency and effectiveness is whether and how public sector or government operations can employ service strategy and design concepts to deal with the conflicting objectives of minimizing expenditures while providing for an increasing number of “causes” [Haywood-Farmer, J., Nollet, J., 1991. Service Plus: Effective Service Management, G. Morin Publisher, Quebec]. In this paper, we argue that the mechanism that permits or enables simultaneous success on these dimensions in public sector operations is information technology applied in conjunction with a unified set of service operations concepts. To demonstrate this contention, we employ an adaptation of the Goldstein et al. [Goldstein, S.M., Johnston, R., Duffy, J., Rao, J., 2002. The service concept: the missing link in service design research? Journal of Operations Management 20 (2), 121–134] service planning design framework, taking issue with some interpretative aspects of their strategic model. The modified planning framework was applied to an initiative in South Carolina state government to improve operations and technology deployment at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The detailed and ongoing case study illustrates the utility of a broad service-based, IT-enabled approach to designing a government service, while simultaneously demonstrating that operational service alignment is the key to avoiding results that have long been labeled a dilemma in the public sector.
A comparison of two epidural catheter connectors

Abstract Background Disconnection of the filter from its catheter is an established problem with epidural analgesia. Previously, it has been hypothesised that the screw cap connector is more prone to disconnection than the clamp connector design. The aim of this study was to test which of two mechanisms connecting the epidural catheter and filter was more prone to disconnection. Methods We recruited 20 consultant anaesthetists. First, each was asked to assemble an epidural set, either B Braun or Portex, in their normal way. Second, each anaesthetist assembled an epidural set, either B Braun or Portex, but was asked if they could improve the security of the connection, whilst avoiding catheter lumen occlusion. Each assembled set was then tested to determine adequacy of catheter connection using a standard protocol. Statistical analysis was performed using the Fisher's exact test. Results The strength of the connection of the B Braun epidural set was similar to the Portex set when assembled for everyday practice (mean 1100g; median 1100g; SD 249 vs. mean 920g; median 1050g; SD 603). However, the incidence of inadequate connection was 0 in the B Braun group vs. 5 (25%) in the Portex group ( P =0.04). It was possible to improve the reliability of the Portex system, although episodes of weak connection were not eliminated. Conclusions We conclude that the Portex connection system is more prone to disconnection and that connection design is an important consideration when trying to minimise catheter disconnection.
A faculty's experience in changing instructional methods in a professional physical therapist education program.

Background and Purpose. In response to the demands of a changing practice environment, many physical therapist educators have incorporated problem-based learning methods into their teaching. The purpose of this study was to describe a physical therapist program faculty’s experience in transitioning from traditional instruction to problem-based instructional methods. Subjects and Methods. Face-to-face, semistructured interviews followed by a focus group were conducted with 7 faculty members, guided by questions about factors that influenced instructors’ experience of changing instructional methods. Results. Nine themes described the faculty’s experience: perception of need for teaching change, personal knowledge of problem-based learning, decision-making process, peer support, partial adoption, values related to teaching and learning, significant response from the community, administrative support, and perceived barriers to incorporation of problem-based methods. Discussion and Conclusion. The findings are consistent with literature describing change: change is a process, the process of change must accommodate individual change, a network of peer support is necessary, and the change process requires leadership and support from administrators within and outside of the group. [Foord-May L. A faculty’s experience in changing instructional methods in a professional physical therapist education program.
A Comparison of Transcriptomic and Metabonomic Technologies for Identifying Biomarkers Predictive of Two-Year Rodent Cancer Bioassays

Two-year rodent bioassays play a central role in evaluating the carcinogenic potential of both commercial products and environmental contaminants. The bioassays are expensive and time consuming, requiring years to complete and costing $2–4 million. In this study, we compare transcriptomic and metabonomic technologies for discovering biomarkers that can efficiently and economically identify chemical carcinogens without performing a standard two-year rodent bioassay. Animals were exposed subchronically to two chemicals (one genotoxic and one nongenotoxic) that were positive for lung and liver tumors in a standard two-year bioassay, two chemicals that were negative, and two control groups. Microarray analysis performed on liver and lung tissues identified multiple biomarkers in each tissue that could discriminate between carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic treatments. The discriminating biomarkers shared a common expression profile among carcinogenic treatments despite different genotoxicity categories and potential modes of action, suggesting that they reflect underlying cellular changes in the transition toward neoplasia. Statistical classification analysis exhibited 100% accuracy in both tissues when the number of genes was less than 5000. Additional genes reduced the predictive accuracy of the model. Serum samples were analyzed by 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and chemical-specific metabolites were removed from the spectra. The statistical classification analysis of the endogenous serum metabolites showed relatively low predictive accuracy with few metabolites in the model, but the accuracy increased to a maximum of 94% when all metabolites were added. These results suggest that individual endogenous metabolites are relatively poor biomarkers, but the metabolite
Invoking the law in ethics consultation.

A request that an ethics committee or consultant analyze the ethical issues in a case, delineate ethical options, or make a recommendation need not automatically but often does elicit legal information. In a recent book in which ethics consultants described cases on which they had worked, almost all cited a legal case or statute that had shaped the consultation process. During a period of just a few months, case consultation done under the auspices of one university hospital ethics committee involved interpretation of statutes on living wills, durable powers of attorney, competency, confidentiality, guardianship, AIDS testing, and disability (personal observation). At another hospital, 30% of ethics consultations were thought to involve legal issues. Attorneys at a third hospital estimated that virtually every case involves legal issues. The notion that ethics consultation is an “amalgam” of medicine, ethics, interpersonal skills, and law is gaining currency. Ethics consultation has become a channel through which law enters the clinical setting.
On the Boussinesq approximation and its role in the theory of internal waves

Most studies of the dynamics of fluids with weak density gradients use the Boussinesq approximation, which neglects density variations in the inertial terms of the equation of motion. The significance of this approximation is investigated here. As a general matter, it appears that care is called for in the use of the approximation if quantities other than the non-dimensional density difference are small. Also, the existence of certain phenomena of interest and importance may depend on the small terms neglected by the Boussinesq approximation. This is shown by an investigation of solitary waves in a stratified fluid system. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1965.tb00193.x
Covalent modification of a cysteine residue in the XPB subunit of the general transcription factor TFIIH through single epoxide cleavage of the transcription inhibitor triptolide

Triptolide is a key component of the traditional Chinese medicinal plant Thunder God Vine and has potent anticancer and immunosuppressive activities. It is an irreversible inhibitor of eukaryotic transcription through covalent modification of XPB, a subunit of the general transcription factor TFIIH. Cys342 of XPB was identified as the residue that undergoes covalent modification by the 12,13-epoxide group of triptolide. Mutation of Cys342 of XPB to threonine conferred resistance to triptolide on the mutant protein. Replacement of the endogenous wild-type XPB with the Cys342Thr mutant in a HEK293T cell line rendered it completely resistant to triptolide, thus validating XPB as the physiologically relevant target of triptolide. Together, these results deepen our understanding of the interaction between triptolide and XPB and have implications for the future development of new analogues of triptolide as leads for anticancer and immunosuppressive drugs.