cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Planning Faculty Development for Successful Implementation of Web-Based Instruction

Purpose – This study was conducted to examine how proficiencies, motivation, and training impact the success of faculty development for web‐based instruction (WBI) at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the USA.Design/methodology/approach – Data in this mixed‐design exploratory study came from responses to an online questionnaire and follow‐up interviews. Seven four‐year public HBCUs that offered online curricula and provided faculty development opportunities in various forms such as workshops and seminars were examined.Findings – The results of the study indicated that faculty were proficient in basic technologies, but less proficient in more demanding technologies; provision of incentives such as time off to attend training was motivating for WBI participation; and faculty preferred individualized training and workshops.Research limitations/implications – Successful faculty development is as a complex process that involves several integrated components which should be viewed as an in...
Virus-like particles for the prevention of human papillomavirus-associated malignancies.

As compared with peptide- or protein-based vaccines, naked DNA vectors and even traditional attenuated or inactivated virus vaccines, virus-like particles (VLPs) are an attractive vaccine platform, as they offer a combination of safety, ease of production and both high-density B-cell epitope display and intracellular presentation of T-cell epitopes that induce potent humoral and cellular immune responses, respectively. Indeed, HPV vaccines based on VLP production by recombinant expression of major capsid antigen L1 in yeast (Gardasil®, Merck & Co., NJ, USA) or insect cells (Cervarix®, GlaxoSmithKline, London, UK) have been licensed for the prevention of cervical and anogenital infection and disease associated with the genotypes targeted by each vaccine. However, these HPV vaccines have not been demonstrated as effective to treat existing infections, and efforts to develop a therapeutic HPV vaccine continue. Furthermore, current HPV L1-VLP vaccines provide type-restricted protection, requiring highly multi...
Identification, role and systematic significance of 3-octanone in the carpenter ant, Camponotus schaefferi WHR.

Abstract 1. 1. 3-Octanone and 3-octanol are constituents of the mandibular gland secretions of ail castes of the carpenter ant, Camponotus schaefferi . 2. 2. 3-Octanone functions as a releaser of alarm behavior for workers of C. schaefferi . 3. 3. The subgeneric position of C. schaefferi is re-evaluated in terres of its novel mandibular gland chemistry in the genus Camponotus .
Approach and Avoidance Social Motives and Goals

It was predicted that approach social motives and goals would be linked to outcomes characterized by the presence of positive social features, and avoidance social motives and goals would be linked to outcomes characterized by the presence of negative social features and that the link between approach motives and outcomes would be mediated by different processes than the link between avoidance motives and outcomes. These hypotheses were examined in three studies (two of them longitudinal) that measured participants' dispositional social motives, short-term social goals, and social outcomes (e.g., loneliness). Approach motives and goals were reliably associated with less loneliness and more satisfaction with social bonds, whereas avoidance motives and goals were reliably associated with more loneliness, negative social attitudes, and relationship insecurity. Results also suggested that these associations were mediated by different processes. Implications for the conceptualization of close relationships along these two dimensions are discussed.
Teaching medical students to recognize demoralization

Background and Objectives: Concepts such as demoralization fit well into Problem or Case-based learning methods that encourage students to organize knowledge based on clinical problems, rather than according to the disciplines of basic science. Methods: At two US schools, psychiatry clerkship students learn about demoralization and psychotherapy through structured, case based exercises that teach them to elicit and respond to patients� life stories in ways that emphasize hope and empowerment. Results: Students� reactions to these exercises, though mixed, suggest that they may enhance students� understanding of the universal elements of distress (demoralization) that cut across many disabling conditions and of the role that caregivers may play in compounding or relieving this distress. Conclusions: Learning to recognize and respond to demoralization is an advanced communication skill that can be introduced during a psychiatry clerkship.
Spaceflight optical disk recorder development

Mass memory systems based on rewriteable optical disk media are expected to play an important role in meeting the data system requirements for future NASA spaceflight missions. NASA has established a program to develop a high performance (high rate, large capacity) optical disk recorder focused on use aboard unmanned Earth orbiting platforms. An expandable, adaptable system concept is proposed based on disk drive modules and a modular controller. Drive performance goals are 10 gigabyte capacity, 300 megabit/s transfer rate, 10 exp -12 corrected bit error rate, and 150 millisec access time. This performance is achieved by writing eight data tracks in parallel on both sides of a 14 in. optical disk using two independent heads. System goals are 160 gigabyte capacity, 1.2 gigabits/s data rate with concurrent I/O, 250 millisec access time, and two to five year operating life on orbit. The system can be configured to meet various applications. This versatility is provided by the controller. The controller provides command processing, multiple drive synchronization, data buffering, basic file management, error processing, and status reporting. Technology developments, design concepts, current status including a computer model of the system and a Controller breadboard, and future plans for the Drive and Controller are presented.
Diagnosis and Nonsurgical Management of Strabismus Secondary to Orbital Fracture

When a large, blunt projectile strikes the eye with sufficient force, the acute rise in pressure within the orbit may result in fracture of the more fragile portions, as the pressure seeks release ...
Explaining Prescription Opioid Misuse Among Veterans: A Theory-Based Analysis Using Structural Equation Modeling

Although prescription opioid misuse (POM) has serious implications for the mental and physical health of military veterans, relatively few studies utilize veteran samples. Additionally, POM studies that are grounded in theoretical models of drug use are very rare. As a result, the theoretical links that may explain POM among veterans are not well-understood. The goal of this study, therefore, is to examine the extent to which the availability-proneness model may be able to account for POM among veterans. Data from the 2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (n = 2,008) were analyzed using structural equation modeling to assess the model's overall validity. The findings are discussed in terms of their theoretical impact and implications for future prevention and treatment interventions.
Solar neutrinos and solar accretion of interstellar matter

McCREA1 has recalled the suggestions2,3 that the gravitational energy released by material accreted by the Sun from interstellar clouds could trigger the onset of terrestrial Ice Ages. The purpose of this communication is to point out that if the Hoyle–Lyttleton mass accretion rate applies, this accretion is sufficient to enhance the surface heavy element abundances of the Sun and other solar–type stars. The enhancement may be sufficient to allow the construction of consistent solar models with an interior heavy element abundance significantly lower than the observed surface abundance. This condition lowers the predicted solar neutrino flux4. Joss5 has suggested that a similar enhancement of surface abundances might occur by accretion of planetesimals left over after formation of the Solar System. Both mechanisms may occur, thereby increasing the effect.
Optimal histogram matching by monotone gray level transformation

This paper investigates the problem of optimal histogram matching using monotone gray level transformation, which always assigns all picture points of a given gray level i to another gray level T(i) such that if i ≥ j, then T(i) ≥ T(j). The objective is to find a transformed digital picture of a given picture such that the sum of absolute errors between the gray level histogram of the transformed picture and that of a reference picture is minimized. This is equivalent to placing k1 linearly ordered objects of different sizes one by one into k2 linearly ordered boxes of assorted sizes, such that the accumulated error of space underpacked or overpacked in the boxes is minimized; the placement function is monotonic, which ensures a polynomial time solution to this problem. A tree search algorithm for optimal histogram matching is presented which has time complexity O(k1 × k2). If the monotone property is dropped, then the problem becomes NP-complete, even if it is restricted to k2 = 2.
The elastic behavior of sodium

It is shown that the non-linear variation with temperature of the single crystal elastic constants of sodium is not related to the effects of lattice defects, but to non-classical behavior at low temperatures.
Design and development of a high precision lens focusing mechanism using flexure bearings

The emergence of multi-tier stacked die architecture in semiconductor devices has given rise to the need for multi-level interconnection between dies (bare IC chips) and the substrate. In the context of interconnection by wire bonding, this necessitates the use of a vision system, which has real time focussing capability. This paper presents the design and development of such a high precision programmable focussing mechanism (PFM), which is used to move a lens relative to another fixed lens, thus altering the focus of the optical system. The device employs flexure bearings and is actuated by a voice coil motor (VCM).
MEK inhibition potentiates the activity of Hsp90 inhibitor 17-AAG against pancreatic cancer cells

The Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling has been implicated in uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor progression in pancreatic cancer. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the antitumor activity of MEK inhibitor U0126 in combination with Hsp90 inhibitor 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG) in pancreatic cancer cells. Western blotting showed that 17-AAG caused a 2- to 3-fold transient activation of MEK/ERK signaling in pancreatic cancer cells. The activation sustained for 6 h before phospho-ERK (p-ERK) destabilization. The selective MEK inhibitor U0126 completely abolished 17-AAG induced ERK1/2 activation and resulted in more than 80% of phospho-ERK degradation after only 15 min treatment. Moreover, U0126 had complementary effect on 17-AAG regulated oncogenic and cell cycle related proteins. Although 17-AAG downregulated cyclin D1, cyclin E, CDK4 and CDK6, it led to cyclin A and CDK2 accumulation, which was reversed by the addition of U0126. Antiproliferation assay showed that combination of U0126 and 17-AAG resulted in synergistic cytotoxic effect. More importantly, 17-AAG alone only exhibited moderate inhibition of cell migration in vitro, while addition of U0126 dramatically enhanced the inhibitory effect by 2- to 5-fold. Taken together, these data demonstrate that MEK inhibitor U0126 potentiates the activity of Hsp90 inhibitor 17-AAG against pancreatic cancer cells. The combination of Hsp90 and MEK inhibition could provide a promising avenue for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Prion Infection of Oral and Nasal Mucosa

Centrifugal spread of the prion agent to peripheral tissues is postulated to occur by axonal transport along nerve fibers. This study investigated the distribution of the pathological isoform of the protein (PrP Sc ) in the tongues and nasal cavities of hamsters following intracerebral inoculation of the HY strain of the transmissible mink encephalopathy (TME) agent. We report that PrP Sc deposition was found in the lamina propria, taste buds, and stratified squamous epithelium of fungiform papillae in the tongue, as well as in skeletal muscle cells. Using laser scanning confocal microscopy, PrP Sc was localized to nerve fibers in each of these structures in the tongue, neuroepithelial taste cells of the taste bud, and, possibly, epithelial cells. This PrP Sc distribution was consistent with a spread of HY TME agent along both somatosensory and gustatory cranial nerves to the tongue and suggests subsequent synaptic spread to taste cells and epithelial cells via peripheral synapses. In the nasal cavity, PrP Sc accumulation was found in the olfactory and vomeronasal epithelium, where its location was consistent with a distribution in cell bodies and apical dendrites of the sensory neurons. Prion spread to these sites is consistent with transport via the olfactory nerve fibers that descend from the olfactory bulb. Our data suggest that epithelial cells, neuroepithelial taste cells, or olfactory sensory neurons at chemosensory mucosal surfaces, which undergo normal turnover, infected with the prion agent could be shed and play a role in the horizontal transmission of animal prion diseases.
Capillary columns with in situ formed porous monolithic packing for micro high-performance liquid chromatography and capillary electrochromatography

Capillary columns with monolithic stationary phase were prepared from silanized fused-silica capillaries of 75 μm I.D. by in situ copolymerization of divinylbenzene either with styrene or vinylbenzyl chloride in the presence of a suitable porogen. The porous monolithic support in this study was used either directly or upon functionalization of the surface to obtain a stationary phase that was appropriate for the separation of peptides by capillary electrochromatography (CEC). The main advantages of monolithic columns are as follows. They do not need retaining frits, they do not have charged particles that can get dislodged in high electric field, and they have relatively high permeability and stability. Whereas such columns are designed especially for CEC, they find application in micro high-performance liquid chromatography (μ-HPLC) as well. Five different porogens were employed to prepare the monolithic columns that were examined for permeability and porosity. The flexibility of fused-silica capillaries was not adversely affected by the monolithic packing and the longevity of the columns was satisfactory. This may also be due to the polymerization technique, which resulted in a fluid-impervious outer layer of the monolith that precluded contact between the fused-silica surface and the liquid mobile phase. For the most promising columns, the conductivity ratios and the parameters of the simplified van Deemter equation, both in μ-HPLC and CEC, were evaluated. It was found that the efficiency of the monolithic columns in CEC was significantly higher than in μ-HPLC in the same way as observed with capillary columns having conventional particulate packing. This is attributed to the relaxation of band-broadening with electroosmotic flow (EOF) with respect to that with viscous flow. It follows then that the requirement of high packing uniformity to obtain high efficiency may also be relaxed in CEC. Angiotensin-type peptides were separated by CEC with columns packed with a monolithic stationary phase having fixed n-octyl chains and quaternary ammonium groups at the surface. Plate heights of about 8 μm were routinely obtained. The mechanism of the separation is based on the interplay between EOF, chromatographic retention and electrophoretic migration of the positively charged peptides. The results of the complex migration process, with highly nonlinear dependence of the migration times on the organic modifier and the salt concentration, cannot be interpreted within the framework of classical chromatography or electrophoresis.
Borealin dimerization mediates optimal CPC checkpoint function by enhancing localization to centromeres and kinetochores

The chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) localizes to centromeres where it activates the mitotic checkpoint in response to inappropriate inter-kinetochore tension. This error correction function is essential for proper chromosome segregation. Here we define several critical features of CPC localization and function. First, the Borealin dimerization domain suppresses dynamic exchange at the centromere to allow optimal CPC function. Second, Borealin dimerization is essential to target a subpopulation of CPC proximal to the kinetochore when the mitotic spindle is disrupted. This subpopulation is also needed for full CPC checkpoint function. The existence of a pool of CPC at the kinetochore suggests that error correction is more complicated than predicted from the Aurora B phosphorylation gradient model. Finally, Haspin kinase plays a key role in maintaining the slowly exchanging centromere Borealin pool, while Aurora B and Mps1 play minimal roles in maintaining CPC localization once cells are in mitosis.
Actin localization in fixed dividing cells stained with fluorescent heavy meromyosin

Abstract We have repeated Sanger's [1] experiments on the staining of dividing cells with fluorescent-heavy meromyosin (HMM), with some important modifications in technique, and confirmed some, but not all, of his observations. Most importantly, we confirmed that fluorescent-HMM is concentrated in the mitotic spindle, even in cells that are fixed with formalin prior to staining. The fluorescent-HMM used in these experiments was purified by ion exchange chromatography, a step which eliminates all detectable non-specific staining. Controls for the specificity of the fluorescent-HMM staining were competition with unlabeled HMM and chemical inhibition of actin-fluorescent-HMM interaction with Mg-pyrophosphate. Our fluorescent-HMM staining patterns differed from Sanger's in three ways. We observed no staining of kinetochores and no concentration of staining in the cleavage furrow, while we found that fluorescent-HMM was concentrated in the interzone during anaphase.
Spatial and temporal variability of fine particle composition and source types in five cities of Connecticut and Massachusetts

To protect public health from PM(2.5) air pollution, it is critical to identify the source types of PM(2.5) mass and chemical components associated with higher risks of adverse health outcomes. Source apportionment modeling using Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF), was used to identify PM(2.5) source types and quantify the source contributions to PM(2.5) in five cities of Connecticut and Massachusetts. Spatial and temporal variability of PM(2.5) mass, components and source contributions were investigated. PMF analysis identified five source types: regional pollution as traced by sulfur, motor vehicle, road dust, oil combustion and sea salt. The sulfur-related regional pollution and traffic source type were major contributors to PM(2.5). Due to sparse ground-level PM(2.5) monitoring sites, current epidemiological studies are susceptible to exposure measurement errors. The higher correlations in concentrations and source contributions between different locations suggest less spatial variability, resulting in less exposure measurement errors. When concentrations and/or contributions were compared to regional averages, correlations were generally higher than between-site correlations. This suggests that for assigning exposures for health effects studies, using regional average concentrations or contributions from several PM(2.5) monitors is more reliable than using data from the nearest central monitor.
Ventricular fibrillation in a tetraplegic patient who had a therapeutic level of a tricyclic antidepressant Case report

A case is presented of a young, chronic tetraplegic patient who, shortly after achieving therapeutic levels of imipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant {TCA) developed a life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia. Since tetraplegic patients frequently manifest evidence of autonomic super sensitivity, the autonomic effects of the TCA may have led to the cardiac arrhythmia. Caution should be exercised in the use of TCA's in tetraplegic patients.
Analysis of sea urchin egg cortical transformation in the absence of cortical granule exocytosis.

Abstract A burst of endocytosis accompanying microvillar elongation follows cortical granule exocytosis in normal sea urchin development. By 5 min postfertilization the burst is over and a lower level of endocytosis ensues (constitutive phase). To determine whether microvillar elongation and initiation of endocytosis are necessary concommitants of cortical granule exocytosis we utilized Chases's (1967, Ph.D. thesis, University of Washington, Seattle) high-hydrostatic pressure technique to block the latter and then examined developing eggs for endocytosis and microvillar elongation. To accomplish this, eggs were fertilized, after which hydrostatic pressure was quickly raised to 6000–7000 psi at the start of cortical granule exocytosis and maintained for 5 min. Only the cortical granules immediately surrounding the sperm penetration site were secreted (about 3% or less of the egg's total number of cortical granules). Blockage of major cortical granule exocytosis had the following consequences on surface events during first division: (1) The endocytosis burst normally associated with cortical granule exocytosis was effectively eliminated as was early microvillar elongation and elevation. Both occurred to a limited extent around the sperm penetration site which resulted in a highly localized surface transformation. (2) By 20 min after fertilization endocytosis began over the rest of the egg surface in the absence of any further cortical granule exocytosis. (3) Subsequently, during a 30-min period starting midway between fertilization and first cleavage microvilli more than doubled in length and endocytosis levels increased severalfold. These events brought about a complete surface transformation similar to that which normally occurs in early development but in the absence of cortical granule exocytosis. By first cleavage surfaces and cortices of high-pressure-treated and control eggs were nearly indistinguishable except for the presence of cortical granules in cortices of the former. Pressure-treated eggs cleaved normally and developed to larval forms overnight. The period of late surface transformation in high-pressure-treated Strongylocentrotus purpuratus eggs corresponds in timing and some of its characteristics to second phase microvillar elongation observed in normal development in this species and also in S. droebachiensis development. These observations suggest, therefore, that microvillar elongation and endocytosis are necessary membrane remodelling events which must occur for normal development even in the absence of membrane addition from the cortical granules.
Chronic social stress differentially regulates neuroendocrine responses in laying hens: II. Genetic basis of adrenal responses under three different social conditions

Chicken lines were divergently selected for both high (HGPS) or low (LGPS) group productivity and survivability resulting from cannibalism and flightiness in colony cages. Each line has unique characteristics in physical indexes, domestic behavior, and physiological responsiveness to stress. The differences between the selected lines could be reflected in differing regulation of the neuroendocrine system such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Change of the adrenal function is a key initial event in response to stress in animals, which differs for this trait. Comparisons between the selected lines showed that adrenal function was stable in HGPS hens but not in LGPS hens in response to chronic social stress. Social stress-induced adrenal hypertrophy and its positive correlation with plasma corticosterone concentrations were found in the LGPS hens but not in the HGPS hens. The data demonstrated that chickens selected for variations in productivity and survivability variously altered the adrenal system in response to social stressors. The results suggest that these chicken lines could be valuable animal models for biomedical investigation of the effect of genetic-environmental interactions on the neuroendocrine function in controlling stress responses.
Source-to-Sink Manipulation Effects on Cotton Fiber Quality

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) fiber quality varies considerably among years and locations depending on the prevailing environmental conditions. These environmental conditions often affect the assimilate source/reproductive sink ratio of the developing crop. This study investigated the effects of various source-sink manipulations on cotton fiber quality at various times during the growing season. In 1991 and 1992, field studies were conducted in which six source-sink manipulation treatments (partial defruited, partial leaf pruned, reflectors, open canopy, shaded plot, and an untreated control) were imposed on the cotton genotypes 'DES 119', 'DPL 5690', and 'Prema'. Blooms at anthesis were tagged on four dates each year, and the seed cotton was harvested when these bolls had opened. This seed cotton was then ginned, and fiber quality traits were determined. The shaded plot treatment reduced fiber strength 6% compared with the control. Fiber from the shaded plot treatment was about 2% longer than the control when the shade was applied within the first 7 d of fiber development. The micronaire value was decreased 7% from the control when the shade was applied during the period of fiber development when the fiber secondary cell wall is being deposited. The partial defruited treatment consistently produced about 8% greater micronaire than the control. Fiber from the partial leaf pruned and shaded plot treatment (low source-to-sink ratio) averaged 11% lower micronaire than the open canopy and partial defruited treatment (high source-to-sink ratio) on the first tagging date. On the third tagging date, fiber maturity, a component of micronaire, for the partial defruited treatment was 6% greater than the control. None of the treatments significantly altered fiber elongation or perimeter. These data indicate that alterations in the light intensity or carbon assimilate supply can affect the quality of cotton fiber produced, particularly fiber strength and micronaire.
Numerical and asymptotic analysis of a localized heat source undergoing periodic motion

Abstract A highly localized heat source moves with simple periodic motion along a one-dimensional medium with reactive-diffusive properties. It is known that the system will experience a blow-up in finite time. Numerical results suggest that this blow-up, though unavoidable, can be delayed by increasing either the amplitude or the frequency of the motion. These numerical results are compared to known analytical results. Numerical and analytical results are also compared for the related case in which the heat source moves at a constant speed in one direction. The asymptotic behavior of the temperature of the material at the location of the heat source near the time of blow-up is also analyzed. It can be of interest to consider the asymptotic behavior of the solution in the context of the numerical solution in order to gain confidence in the numerical results.
SEX‐DIFFERENTIAL RESISTANCE AND TOLERANCE TO HERBIVORY IN A GYNODIOECIOUS WILD STRAWBERRY

We explore the effects of gender dimorphism on resistance (damage avoidance) and tolerance (growth and fitness compensation) to a flower bud clipping weevil in a gynodioecious wild strawberry. Using both natural populations and a common garden, we document pervasive hermaphrodite-biased damage and identify several floral traits associated with resistance. Lower flower number, lower pollen production per flower, and earlier flowering date were associated with higher resistance. Because the sex morphs do not differ in flower number or flowering time, the presence of pollen is the main factor determining sex-differential resistance. We confirmed that simulated clipping was a good surrogate for weevil clipping, and we used simulated clipping to assess sex-morph- and sex-function-specific tolerance. We found that females were less tolerant than hermaphrodites in terms of seed and fruit production, but the sex morphs were similarly unable to compensate fully in flower production. Hermaphrodites showed some ability to compensate in pollen per flower, but this was not large enough to offset flower losses, leading to net undercompensation for pollen per plant. We evaluated potential mechanisms for tolerance and found that the number of reserve buds was the most consistent predictor of tolerance. Finally, we found that herbivory shifted sex expression of hermaphrodites toward greater femaleness via both plastic changes in allocation and direct effects of loss of male-functioning flowers. Our work indicates that the effects of herbivory on sexual system evolution can include sexual phenotype-biased herbivore damage and sex-dependent tolerance, as well as herbivory-induced changes in hermaphrodite sex allocation. In addition, this study suggests that pollen production is subject to selection via herbivores that opposes selection mediated by pollinators.
Recent experience with the spherical agglomeration process

Abstract : The process of removing particles from liquid suspension by selective wetting and agglomeration with a second immiscible liquid has many possible applications. Depending upon the amount of the second liquid used and the type of agitation to which the suspension is subjected, the particles to be separated are settled as flocs, as dense pellets or may simply be transferred to a continuous phase of the second liquid. This paper first describes the types of mixing equipment which have been used to carry out the process in its various forms and goes on to discuss a number of specific applications. These include the upgrading of coking coals by selective agglomeration, the pelletization of soluble salts, the formation of highly spherical bodies from various materials and the benefication of ores. (Author)
Analysis of chromosome 18 DNA markers in multiplex pedigrees with manic depression

Six pedigrees segregating manic-depressive illness (MDI) were analyzed for linkage to 21 highly polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers on chromosome 18. These markers span almost the entire length of the chromosome, and gaps between markers are less than 20 cM. In particular, we analyzed several markers localizing to the pericentromeric region of chromosome 18 which generated lod scores suggestive of linkage in an independent study. Lod score analysis was performed and results were examined by family. One region produced positive lod scores, though at 18q23 and not in the pericentromeric region. We additionally used two nonparametric methods because the true mode of transmission of MDI is unknown; results were again somewhat suggestive for markers in the region of 18q23 but not in the pericentromeric region.
Enzymatic modification of aminocyclitol antibiotics: Mutations affecting the expression of aminocyclitol acetyltransferase-3

Abstract Hydroxylamine treatment of plasmid DNA pLH1, a recombinant plasmid of colicin E1 and the gene for aminocyclitol acetyltransferase-3 (AAC-3), upon transformation provided a number of gentamicin-sensitive mutants. All gentamicin-sensitive strains lacked AAC-3 activity, and studies of partially defective and temperature-sensitive mutants have defined the role of the acetyltransferase in the determination of drug resistance. The results are consistent with the notion that modification of the entering drug per se, without interaction with membranes or transport systems, is responsible for the resistance phenotype, as was implied by the original finding of S. Okomoto and Y. Suzuki (Nature (London),208, 1301–1303, 1966), who demonstrated that dihydrostreptomycin and kanamycin were inactivated when incubated with extracts of cells containing plasmids.
The ‘unproductive’ labour of Soviet teachers∗

(1965). The ‘unproductive’ labour of Soviet teachers. Soviet Studies: Vol. 17, No. 2, pp. 238-244.
A microfabricated platform for three-dimensional microsystems

This work presents a manually assembled three-dimensional (3-D) silicon platform structure that fully houses a microsystem containing sensors and the necessary system electronics including the power supply. The unique design of this platform provides a supporting package in a 3-D form factor, as well as routing capabilities with orthogonal mechanical and electrical connections between the assembled internal sides. An example platform is fabricated to realize an autonomous data-logging inertial measurement unit (IMU). The IMU consists of a programmable microcontroller, Flash memory, a three-axis accelerometer and a three-axis gyroscope. Double-sided polished, 250 µm-thick silicon wafers are processed using standard microfabrication techniques to produce the individual platform pieces. Sensor data, at a rate of 100Hz, is collected via a microcontroller and stored in the on-board Flash memory. Reliable and repeatable inertial data are collected with maximum power consumption of ∼16 mW, and the duration of data-logging capability of ∼48 hours. It is envisioned that extensions of this 3-D platform, combined with standard microfabrication techniques, will enable the integration of a variety of heterogeneous materials and devices with a form factor that reduces planar footprint and expands 3-D design space. Through-wafer vias can be used to integrate more functionality per surface area by increasing the interconnect density and allowing both the front and backside of the wafers to be populated with either fabricated or mounted devices.
Subcutaneous myxopapillary ependymal rest: A potential sign of spinal dysraphism

Subcutaneous myxopapillary ependymal rests are heterotopias of neuroglial tissue that present in the subcutaneous tissue of the sacrococcygeal region. We report a case which presented as a flesh-colored, pedunculated papule near the gluteal cleft. The presence of a congenital lesion near the midline of the spine should alert the clinician to the possibility of spinal dysraphism and necessitates imaging before biopsy. Subcutaneous myxopapillary rests are benign but must be distinguished from their histologic mimic, subcutaneous myxopapillary ependymomas, which are low-grade tumors with metastatic potential.
Computer model for bounded plasma

Abstract A computer model is developed for simulating a bounded plasma slab. The two dimensional electrostatic model is periodic in one dimension and bounded in the other. In the non-periodic dimension, one can specify values of the potential or the normal electric field on both boundaries, or one can specify that a vacuum exists outside the plasma or any combination of these on each boundary. The plasma model can be non-neutral. Because the final solution has a particularly simple form, it can be obtained with only one Fast Fourier Transform, and therefore this model is only slightly slower than conventional doubly periodic models. External electrostatic sources, either on the boundaries or in the plasma interior, can be added in a natural way. The computer model is tested by examining the propagation of linear waves in a plasma slab bounded by vacuum. The predictions of a dispersion relation based on a warm fluid model are compared with the results obtained from the computer model, with very good agreement for the real parts of the frequencies.
An empirical model for stomatal resistance of field-grown wheat

Abstract From concurrent data of stomatal conductance of sunlit leaves (Ci; mm s−1), leaf water potential (ψ; m), and net radiation (Rn; W m−2) we derive the empirical relationship: C l =(0.986+0.025R n ) 1 1+( ψ −230.8 ) 5.51 Stomatal conductances calculated using the above equation are compared with an independent data set. Canopy resistance derived from the above equation is used in a plant water balance equation to simulate diurnal evaporation fluxes for three days, and we compare the calculated fluxes with lysimeter observations for well-watered and water-stressed wheat. Canopy temperatures are additionally obtained from an energy balance equation and compared with infrared radiometer observations. Regression analysis of simulated and observed evaporation fluxes yields a correlation coefficient of 0.98 and a standard error of estimate of about 37 W m−2; while for the canopy temperatures the correlation coefficient is 0.98 and the standard error of estimates 1.04°C. Variation of canopy net photosynthesis with insolation, and leaf area index are also simulated and compared with observations.
On the symbolic calculus in homogeneous Banach algebras

We construct a strongly homogeneous Banach algebraB so that for an appropriate positive integern, (1)A(T) ⊊B ⊊C(T); (2)n-times continuously differentiable functions operate onB.
A simplified high-pesolution gradient analysis system

Abstract A simplified high-performance, semiautomatic apparatus for the analysis and fractionation of density gradient preparations is described. In this system the gradient, mounted directly under a standard recording spectrophotometer, is displaced upwards through a vertical straight-path flow cell, then downward to a fraction collector. The resolution attainable with this apparatus is greater than that required for the high fidelity analysis of small volume centrifuged density gradients. The system is easily adaptable to cesium gradients, zonal rotors, and to chromatographic columns where its high-resolution, bubble-free performance makes practical the analysis of both small and large volumes. It is significantly simpler and less costly to construct than other apparatus of comparable performance.
Intelligent Coordinated Control of a Wind Farm and Distributed Smartparks

Energy storage is generally recommended in presence of an intermittent source like wind farm for a better control over the power generation from the wind turbine with the variation of the wind speed. In this paper, the potential of plug-in electric vehicle parking lot (SmartPark) as an energy storage in a power system with a large wind farm has been investigated. Also, a fuzzy logic based coordination controller of the wind farm and the distributed SmartParks has been proposed in this paper. The fuzzy controller uses the total state-of-charge of the SmartParks and the difference between instantaneous demand and the available wind power generation as the inputs and thereby generates the charging or discharging power commands of the SmartParks and the pitch angle reference for the wind turbine. A 12-bus multimachine power system with a 400 MW wind farm is used as a test system. Six SmartParks are also connected to the same bus where the wind farm is connected. The entire model is developed in Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) for power system. The results demonstrate the action of the coordinated controller to reduce the oscillations in the tie-line power flow with the sudden variations of the wind speed.
WT1 expression induces features of renal epithelial differentiation in mesenchymal fibroblasts.

The WT1 tumor suppressor gene, implicated in hereditofamilial and sporadic Wilms' tumor, is required for normal renal development and is up-regulated during the mesenchymal-epithelial transition. NIH3T3 fibroblasts overexpressing WT1 were less proliferative, larger in size and more firmly attached to tissue culture plastic, suggesting an alteration of their state of differentiation. These cells were studied in vivo by subcutaneous injection into nude mice. The resulting tumors exhibited epithelioid histopathology and formed desmosome-like structures. Molecular analyses of these WT1 expressing fibroblasts grown in culture and in nude mice revealed significant alterations in the expression of many kidney epithelial markers. These studies indicate that WT1 expression can initiate features of a program of epithelial differentiation consistent with a prominent role for WT1 in the mesenchymal epithelial transition that occurs during renal development. Through this work we identified a number of novel target genes for the WT1 transcription factor, including uvomorulin, integrin α8 and perlecan, and suggest that WT1 may activate the IGF-II gene, also implicated in the development of Wilms' tumor.
Consumers’ Responses to Public Figures’ Transgression: Moral Reasoning Strategies and Implications for Endorsed Brands

Public figures’ transgressions attract considerable media attention and public interest. However, little is understood about the impact of celebrity endorsers’ transgressions on associated brands. Drawing on research on moral reasoning, we posit that consumers are not always motivated to separate judgments of performance from judgments of morality (moral decoupling) or simply excuse a wrongdoer (moral rationalization). We propose that consumers also engage in moral coupling, a distinct moral reasoning process which allows consumers to integrate judgments of performance and judgments of morality. In three studies, we demonstrate that moral coupling is prevalent and has unique predictive utilities in explaining consumers’ evaluation of the transgressor (Studies 1 and 2). We also show that transgression type (performance related vs. performance unrelated) has a significant impact on consumers’ choice of moral reasoning strategy (Study 2). Finally, we demonstrate that consumers’ support for (or opposition toward) a brand endorsed by a transgressor is a direct function of moral reasoning choice (Study 3). Findings suggest that public figure’s immoral behavior and its spillover to an extended brand is contingent on consumers’ moral reasoning choices.
The isolation of the meiosis in spindle from the mature oocyte of Pisaster ochraceus

Abstract Pronase and a sulfhydryl reducing agent have been used to activate and remove the fertilization membranes from the oocytes of the starfish Pisaster ochraceus. The dejellied demembranated oocytes in meiosis I have been used to isolate the mitotic apparatus using either the methods of Mazia et al [5] or of Kane [6]. The conditions for isolation are essentially the same as those described for sea urchins. The size and birefringence of this mitotic apparatus are compared with those of a number of different organisms.
Delayed valproic acid toxicity: A retrospective case series

Abstract Study Objective: We estimate how often an initially undetectable or nontoxic valproic acid (VPA) concentration misrepresents the potential toxicity of an acute VPA overdose. Methods: All patients followed up by the San Diego and San Francisco Divisions of the California Poison Control System between January 1997 and June 1999 with a documented serum VPA concentration of 120 μg/mL or greater at any time were identified through a search of poison center databases. Cases involving patients who had serial VPA concentrations and an initial VPA concentration that was unmeasurable or less than 100 μg/mL were also identified. The methods of decontamination, clinical outcomes, highest measured concentration, and times after ingestion of the initial and highest measured concentration of VPA were determined by means of chart review for these cases. Results: Of the 173 patients identified with VPA concentrations of 120 μg/mL or greater, 21 (12.1%) had a detectable initial concentration not in the toxic range, and 5 (2.9%) had initial concentrations of less than the limit of detection. These 26 cases involved acute ingestion of VPA preparations. Four of these 26 patients were discharged to home or to a psychiatric facility after the initial results were obtained. Conclusion: Delayed toxicity might occur in patients after an acute overdose of enteric-coated VPA. Initial serum VPA concentrations might be misleading. Serial measurements documenting declining VPA concentrations or prolonged observation are recommended to determine whether a patient is medically safe for discharge or psychiatric placement. [Ingels M, Beauchamp J, Clark RF, Williams SR. Delayed valproic acid toxicity: a retrospective case series. Ann Emerg Med. June 2002;39:616-621.]
Flexible cold atmospheric microplasma jets generated in biocompatible dielectric tubes

The flexible microplasma jet device using a biocompatible dielectric tube has been proposed for the purpose of bio/medical applications. Tygon® tubes which had 254 urn of the inner diameter were employed as flexible biocompatible tubes, and a high purity helium gas was used as a discharge gas. When the sinusoidal voltage waves with the voltage of 6 KV and the frequency of 36 KHz were applied to the plasma jet device with a single electrode, the produced plasma plume had the length of 5 mm. However, stronger plasma emission and longer plasma plume was observed if a grounded material contacted with the plasma plume. The results of plasma emission showed the generated plasma jets from the Tygon® tube were stable and had a same performance with the plasma jets from other millimeter or centimeter sized plasma jet devices.1-3 Therefore, this flexible microplasma jet device could be applied to the direct treatment of tumor cells. In order to observe the effect of plasma treatments, the microplasma jets were applied to both murine tumor cells and non-tumor cells. As a result, microplasma jets induced cultured murine cells to undergo apoptosis. And it was also observed that mouse melanoma B16F0 tumor cells were more sensitive to plasma treatment than mouse fibroblast CL.7 cells. This result was significant because plasma treatments may be used to selectively destroy tumor cells without harm to non-tumor cells at certain condition.
Implementation considerations for single-camera steering assistance systems on a fixed point DSP

The design flow of camera-based steering assistance algorithms usually begins with their implementation in floating-point on a PC or workstation. This abstraction from all implementation effects allows an exploration of the algorithm space. Memory, throughput and word-length requirements may not be important issues for offline implementation of the algorithms, but they can become critical issues for real-time implementations on embedded processors. The implementation of driver assistance systems is faced with practical constraints because these algorithms usually need to run in real-time on fixed point digital signal processors (DSPs) to reduce total hardware cost. In this paper we first evaluate numerical requirements for implementation of camera-based lateral position detection algorithms, such as lane keep assistant and lane departure warning. We then present methods that address the challenges and requirements of fixed-point design process. The flow proposed is targeted at converting C/C++ code with floating-point operations into C code with integer operations that can then be fed through the native C compiler for a fixedpoint DSP. We demonstrate the flow on tracking example (extended Kalman filter) using synthetically generated data, and we analyze trade-offs for algorithm implementation in fixed-point arithmetic.
Communication research and development policy: agenda dynamics in an African setting.

It is essential to implement an overarching conceptual framework if the purposes of research and development in African communication are to be realized. communication research which adapts the framework of agenda dynamics to the African context can be pivotal in shaping the development strategies of the continent in a manner consistent with the identified goals. Agenda dynamics is an integrative model focusing on the internal dynamics of several different agendas as well as on the relationships among and external influences on them. In adapting the agenda-dynamics model to the African context it is necessary to identify the 6 agendas whose operation and interaction virtually define development communications: the small group or interpersonal agenda; the traditional media agenda; the urban media agenda; the opinion agendas of the urban elite and non-elite; and the public policy agenda. A focus on such agendas reinforces the significance of research fact finding and planning as forerunners of any long-range development activity. Other advantages of adapting this framework are identified. (authors modified)