cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is trafficking a health issue

The trafficking of women and girls for sexual exploitation and prostitution and for indentured servitude would seem to come from another Europe. From a past where slavery was legal or an even more distant time when women were chattels and rape was a spoil of war. That there are such harsh violations of the fundamental rights of women and girls in 2004 is plainly outrageous. Yet a report released in January 2004 reminds us that the sexual exploitation of trafficked women is a modern reality. Trafficking in persons (and in human organs in particular kidneys) is an issue in our increasingly interconnected but economically disparate world. The trafficking of women and girls and their subsequent sexual exploitation largely—but not exclusively—for work in prostitution is a subset of this worldwide phenomenon. But it is a compelling subset not least because of the special health risks and outcomes faced by these women and girls. Indeed the first recommendation of Zimmerman and colleagues’ report is to “Recognize trafficking as a health issue.” Should we? And if we do what kinds of health responses are called for? (excerpt)
Defining Yield Goals and Management Zones to Minimize Yield and Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilizer Recommendation Errors

Three general approaches (minimize soil nutrient variability, yield, and fertilizer recommendation errors) have been used to assess nutrient management zone boundaries. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of different approaches to define management zones and yield goals on minimizing yield variability and fertilizer recommendation errors. This study used soil nutrient and yield information collected from two east-central South Dakota fields between 1995 and 2000. The crop rotation was corn (Zea mays L.) followed by soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. The four management zone delineation approaches tested were to: (i) sample areas impacted by old homesteads separately from the rest of the field; (ii) separate the field into grid cells; (iii) use geographic information systems or cluster analysis of apparent electrical conductivity, elevation, aspect, and connectedness to identify zones; and (iv) use the Order 1 soil survey. South Dakota fertilizer N and P recommendations were used to calculate fertilizer requirements. This study showed that management zones based on a 4-ha grid cell and an Order 1 soil survey had lower within-zone yield variability than the other methods tested. The best approaches for minimizing recommendation errors were nutrient specific. Nitrogen and P recommendations were improved using multiple years of yield monitor data to develop landscape-specific yield goals, sampling old homesteads separately from the rest of the field, and grid cell soil sampling to fine-tune N and P recommendations.
Isograds and the Role of H2O in Metamorphic Facies of Orthogneisses of the Northwest Adirondack Area, New York

Four isograds are shown on a geologic map of the northwest Adirondack area based on the first development of: (1) regional metamorphic garnet in biotite-quartz-oligoclase paragneiss; (2) orthopyroxene as a major member of the mafic assemblage in amphibolitic gneiss, and the disappearance of sphene in hornblende quartz syenite and old granite orthogneisses; (3) garnet in amphibolitic orthogneiss and metagabbro; and (4) garnet in pyroxene quartz syenitic and hornblende quartz syenitic orthogneisses. The successive new mineral assemblages are inferred to represent development under conditions of increasing temperatures and load pressures. An attempt is made to correlate them with the metamorphic facies of progressive metamorphism. The orthogneisses between any two isograds show a variety of mineral assemblages which are best interpreted in terms of development under a wide range of P H 2 O . The hypothesis of partial pressure of H 2 O about equivalent to load presure for the origin of the Adirondack orthogneisse gives results inconsistent with the data. In each of the metamorphic zones from that of almandine amphibolite facies to that of the pyroxene granulite subfacies, igneous rocks that were pyroxene syenite or quartz syenite have been metamorphosed to equivalent pyroxenic gneisses, and hornblende quartz syenite or hornblende granite to equivalent hornblende gneisses. The rocks have, in general, been impermeable either to access or to loss of H 2 O during plastic flow and any subsequent recrystallization. Evidence is presented that most of the hornblende-hypersthene amphibolites, with or without garnet, associated with rocks of the pyroxene granulite subfacies were formed at the same T and Pi as this facies, but at relatively high P H 2 O . The late-stage development of a network of rescrystallized garnetiferous shear zones in otherwise nongarnetiferous host rock is discussed.
Designing patient-centric applications for chronic disease management

Chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease are the leading causes of disability and death in the developed world. Technological interventions such as mobile applications have the ability to facilitate and motivate patients in chronic disease management, but these types of interventions present considerable design challenges. The primary objective of this paper is to present the challenges arising from the design and implementation of software applications aiming to assist patients in chronic disease management. We also outline preliminary results regarding a self-management application currently under development targeting young adults suffering from type 1 diabetes.
Production, Secretion, and Stability of Human Secreted Alkaline Phosphatase in Tobacco NT1 Cell Suspension Cultures

Tobacco NT1 cell suspension cultures secreting active human secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) were generated for the first time as a model system to study recombinant protein production, secretion, and stability in plant cell cultures. The SEAP gene encodes a secreted form of the human placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP). During batch culture, the highest level of active SEAP in the culture medium (0.4 U/mL, corresponding to approximately 27 mg/L) was observed at the end of the exponential growth phase. Although the level of active SEAP decreased during the stationary phase, the activity loss did not appear to be due to SEAP degradation (based on Western blots) but due to SEAP denaturation. The protein-stabilizing agents polyvinylpirrolidone (PVP) and bacitracin were added extracellularly to test for their ability to reduce the loss of SEAP activity during the stationary phase. Bacitracin (100 mg/L) was the most effective treatment at sustaining activity levels for up to 17 days post-subculture. Commercially available human placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) was used to probe the mechanism of SEAP deactivation. Experiments with PLAP in sterile and conditioned medium corroborated the denaturation of SEAP by factors generated by cell growth and not due to simple proteolysis. We also show for the first time that the factors promoting activity loss are heat labile at 95 degrees C but not at 70 degrees C, and they are not inactivated after a 5 day incubation period under normal culture conditions (27 degrees C). In addition, there were no significant changes in pH or redox potential when comparing sterile and cell-free conditioned medium during PLAP incubation, indicating that these factors were unimportant.
Average run length comparison of multivariate control charts

In this paper we use Monte Carlo Simulation methodology to compare the effectiveness of five multivariate quality control methods, namely Hotelling T 2, Multivariate Shewhart Char, Discriminant Analysis, Decomposition Method, and Multivariate Ridge Residual Chart-developed by Authors-, for controlling the mean vector in a multivariate process. P-dimensional multivariate normal data generated using different covariance structures. Various amount of shift in the mean vector is induced and the resulting Average Run Length (ARL) is computed. The effectiveness of each method with regard to ARL is discussed.
An essential role of metalloprotease-disintegrin ADAM12 in triple-negative breast cancer

In the absence of HER2 overexpression, triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) rely on signaling by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB1/HER1) to convey growth signals and stimulate cell proliferation. Soluble EGF-like ligands are derived from their transmembrane precursors by ADAM proteases, but the identity of the ADAM that is primarily responsible for ligand release and activation of EGFR in TNBCs is not clear. Using publicly available gene expression data for patients with lymph node-negative breast tumors who did not receive systemic treatment, we show that ADAM12L is the only ADAM with an expression level significantly associated with decreased distant metastasis-free survival times. Similar effect was not observed for patients with ER-negative non-TNBCs. There was a positive correlation between ADAM12L and HB-EGF and EGFR in TNBCs, but not in ER-negative non-TNBCs. We further demonstrate that ectopic expression of ADAM12L increased EGFR phosphorylation in a mouse intraductal xenograft model of early breast cancer. Finally, we detect strong correlation between the level of anti-ADAM12L and anti-phospho-EGFR immunostaining in human breast tumors using tissue microarrays. These studies suggest that ADAM12L is the primary protease responsible for the activation of EGFR in early stage, lymph node-negative TNBCs. Thus, our results may provide novel insight into the biology of TNBC.
Optimizing an IT Project Portfolio with Time-Wise Interdependencies

Little research has examined the relevance of real options for valuation of information technology (IT) investments for prioritizing a portfolio of projects. When the effect of project interdependencies is considered, the complexity of prioritizing even a small number of projects poses several challenges in applying real options. We develop a new methodology suite which integrates the results of real options analysis within a portfolio management framework. We propose a multi-period optimization model to combine the advantages of using real options analysis with the ease of an optimization program to help IT managers make optimal funding decisions. We demonstrate advantages over traditional methods by using data from a U.S. utility company. Our contributions are: (1) integration of real options analysis with portfolio optimization methods, so projects can be prioritized across a multi-period horizon, and (2) validation of our approach by showing its superiority over traditional portfolio management models.
Tai Ji Quan as an exercise modality to prevent and manage cardiovascular disease: A review

Abstract Background Regular exercise is beneficial for adults with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CVD risk factors. Tai Ji Quan is popular among older adults and may offer additional exercise options. The present article aims to review the scientific literature published within the past decade on Tai Ji Quan as an exercise modality to prevent and manage CVD. Methods An electronic literature search of four databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and AMED) was conducted from April 2003 through March 2013. Studies that examined Tai Ji Quan, were published in English, and specified a target study population of participants with a known CVD condition (e.g., coronary artery disease, chronic heart failure, or stroke) or studies conducted among participants with a CVD risk factor (e.g., hypertension, dyslipidemia, or impaired glucose metabolism) were included. Results A total of 20 studies met the inclusion criteria: 11 randomized clinical trials, seven quasi-experimental studies and two cross-sectional studies. The effect of Tai Ji Quan was examined on more than 20 different study variables among persons with coronary artery disease (n = 5 studies), chronic heart failure (n = 5 studies), stroke (n = 4 studies), and CVD risk factors (n = 6 studies). These studies were conducted primarily in Asia (n = 9, 45%) or the United States (n = 8, 40%). Overall, participants enrolled in Tai Ji Quan had better outcomes, though mixed results were reported. Conclusion Collectively, these studies indicate that Tai Ji Quan is a safe form of exercise to prevent and manage CVD. Further research is needed with more rigorous study designs, larger sample sizes, adequate Tai Ji Quan exercise doses, and carefully chosen outcome measures that assess the mechanisms as well as the effects of Tai Ji Quan, before widespread recommendations can be made.
TRIETHANOLAMINE COMPLEXES OF H+, LI+, NA+, SR2+, AND BA2+ PERCHLORATES

The syntheses of the perchlorate salts of H(TEA)+ (1), Li(TEA)+ (2), Na(TEA)+ (3), Sr(TEA)2(2+) (4), and Ba(TEA)2(2+) (5), wherein TEA = triethanolamine, are reported. Characterizational NMR spectral results (H-1, C-13, Li-7, Na-23) as well as crystal structures for 1, 3, and 5 are discussed. The structures of 1, 3, and 5 reveal respectively the cation H(TEA)+ in which the proton is in a tetrahedral environment,a seven-coordinate sodium weakly coordinated by a monodentate ClO4- and two OH oxygens from neighboring units, and a [Ba(TEA)ClO4]2(2+) cation in which two weakly coordinating perchlorates bridge two Ba2+ ions in a bidentate fashion. Extensive hydrogen bridging via ClO4- ions occurs in all three compounds giving rise to parallel sheet structures. Crystal data: 1 (at 22-degrees-C), a = 9.086(1) angstrom and c = 23.919(6) angstrom, with Z = 6 in space group R3c; 3 (at 20-degrees-C), a = 9.617(1) angstrom, b = 7.787(1) angstrom, c = 15.914(2) angstrom, and beta = 105.80-degrees, with Z = 4 in space group P2(1)/c; 5 (at -50-degrees-C), a = 7.498(2) angstrom, b = 10.492(2) angstrom, c = 15.749(3) angstrom, alpha = 76.06(2)-degrees, beta = 80.56(2)-degrees, and gamma = 76.70(2)-degrees, with Z = 2 in space group P1BAR.
The Dielectric Properties and Phase Transitions of [Pb(Zn{sub 1/3}Nb{sub 2/3})O{sub 3}]{sub 0.905} (PbTiO{sub 3}){sub 0.095}: Influence of Pressure

It is shown that lattice disorder induced by Nb and Ca substitution has a strong influence on the dielectric and relaxational properties of KTaO{sub 3}. Both substituents are believed to occupy off-center positions at the Ta site, and the difference in valence between the Ca{sup 2+} and Ta{sup 5+} ions leads to the formation of oxygen vacancies (V{sub 0}). Specifically, for a KTa{sub 1{minus}x}Nb{sub x}O{sub 3}:Ca crystal with x = 0.023 and with a 0.055 at.% Ca doping they observe: (1) a ferroelectric transition at atmospheric pressure (1 bar); (2) a large enhancement of the transition temperature by Ca doping; (3) a pressure-induced crossover from ferroelectric-to-relaxor behavior; (4) the impending vanishing of the relaxor phase at high pressure; (5) the reorientation of the Ca-oxygen vacancy (Ca:V{sub 0}) pair defect; and (6) the variation of the energetics and dynamics of this reorientation with pressure. Most of these effects are associated with Nb- and Ca-induced dipolar entities and appear to be general features of soft mode ferroelectrics with random-site polar nanodomains. The ferroelectric-to-relaxor crossover can be understood in terms of a large decrease with pressure in the correlation length among polar nanodomains--a unique property of soft ferroelectric mode systems.
Case report: Awake insertion of the intubating laryngeal mask airway using dexmedetomidine sedation

Extracted from text ... CASE REPORT Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia & Analgesia - May 2003 9 Case report: Awake insertion of the intubating laryngeal mask airway using dexmedetomidine sedation tance of 6 cm, a short neck, and a full set of dentition. Baseline vital signs included an oxygen saturation of 100 percent (3 L/ min nasal cannula), blood pressure (BP) 140/70 mmHg, heart rate (HR) 90 bpm, respiratory rate 16/min, and end-tidal CO 2 40mmHg. Prior to anesthetizing the airway the patient was sedated with fentanyl (1.6 mcg/kg) and midazolam (0.01 mg/ kg). Case 2 A 41 year-old male presented for a ..
Laparoscopic studies of ovulation, pregnancy diagnosis and follicle aspiration in sheep

Abstract A technique for rapid and repeated laparoscopic ovarian examination was developed for use in the sheep. A midventral approach was used on ewes under general anesthesia on a 45-degree sloped table. Examination could be done as often as every other day. The technique was used for detection of ovulation in studies of gonadotropin stimulation in anestrous ewes. Ovulation was induced with 5 to 10 mg FSH and 100 to 2000 iu HCG. The use of laparoscopy in pregnancy diagnosis was also investigated. Accurate diagnosis could be made by Day 17 using both uterine and ovarian characteristics. Visualization through the laparoscope was utilized for aspiration of follicular oocytes using a 23 ga, 11 cm needle.
Surface nutrient enrichment in the California Current off Southern California: description and possible causes

Abstract Concentrations of inorganic plant nutrients in California Current waters are frequently greater near the surface than deeper in the euphotic zone. This surface nutrient enrichment (conversely, shallow subsurface nutrient minima) is poorly described. We used data from the 1983–1995 quarterly California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations surveys to characterize surface nutrient enrichment better and to examine causal hypotheses. Averaged over the survey area, frequency of occurrence (% of stations) of enrichment was: phosphate 28%; silicate 51%; nitrate 8%; nitrite 2%. Enrichment frequency, strength and depth, and the thickness of minima layers showed spatial (latitudinal, onshore-offshore) and temporal (seasonal and year-to-year) trends. Co-occurrence, at a given station, of enrichment in two nutrients was nearly random. Apparently, enrichment of different nutrients is driven by independent factors or may be out of phase. Wind speed, wave height, and cloud cover had little effect on enrichment strength, depth, and thickness of minima layers. Potential causes of surface nutrient enrichment include atmospheric deposition, bubble concentration, vertical and horizontal circulation, differences between rates of nutrient uptake and regeneration, photoinhibition, photochemistry, and vertical migrations. Relative importance of these possible contributors is unknown, but some appear minor based on arguments using the CalCOFI data. We believe an imbalance between nutrient consumption and regeneration by euphotic zone plankton is the most important factor in producing surface nutrient enrichment; least important are atmospheric deposition, bubbles, horizontal advection and vertical circulation.
Resolving Referential Conflicts in L2 Interaction: The Effect of Proficiency and Interactive Role †

Extending the research done on the effects of different types of task and different participant arrangements used to foster negotiated interaction among L2 learners, we developed a task that presents specific referential conflicts and analyzed the solutions adopted within two different pairings of learners. Pairs in which the higher proficiency member had the dominant role engaged in little interactive cooperation and in some cases changed the task rather than negotiate a solution. Pairs in which the higher proficiency member had the nondominant role engaged in substantial negotiation work, sought each other's perspective and generally shared much more in the interactive turn-taking and the successful resolution of referential conflicts.
Global Color Variations on Io

Abstract Visible and near-infrared images of Io from the Galileo spacecraft reveal a surface more colorful than previously thought. Red, yellow, green, white, and black hues decorate the satellite, presumably caused by a varied composition of sulfur compounds and silicates. Almost a third of Io is covered by red and orange materials, particularly at polar latitudes above ±30°. These red regions were scarcely distinguishable in the shorter wavelength Voyager observations. Bright red pyroclastic deposits mark the locations of many hot spots, plumes, and visible surface changes, providing a prominent flag of recent volcanic activity. Io's equatorial regions are dominated by yellow materials, which occupy about 40% of the satellite's surface. White and gray materials cover about 27% of Io, primarily in equatorial areas and in localized deposits at high latitudes. These are identified with moderate-to-coarse-grained SO2 as mapped by the NIMS instrument on Galileo (R. W. Carlson et al. 1997, Geophys. Res. Lett.24, 2479–2482). Greenish-yellow materials in small isolated spots on Io's anti-Jupiter hemisphere were recently discovered in 3 km/pixel color imaging from orbit 14. Unlike other ionian terrains, these regions have a negative near-infrared spectral slope, suggesting contamination by a nonsulfur component. Only about 1.4% of Io's surface is occupied by dark materials, which display a variety of visible colors ranging from black to red and green. Most dark spots have a shallow spectral absorption feature at 0.9 μm, suggesting magnesium-rich silicates rather than black sulfur. Little large-scale alteration in the global color and albedo pattern has occurred between the Voyager and Galileo eras; 90% of the surface appears unchanged despite the vigorous volcanic activity which must have taken place in the intervening 17 years. This suggests that over a time scale of decades, the bulk of Io's resurfacing is restricted to a few small but persistently active areas.
Opinions and Reported Learning Outcomes of Undergraduate Music Education Majors Concerning Required Recital Attendance

The purpose of this study was to determine undergraduate music education majors' opinions and reported learning outcomes related to recital attendance required by their degree program. Comparisons were made between underclassmen (n = 99) and upperclassmen (n = 48) and between those attending a university with periodic deadlines for completing the requirement (n = 101) and those attending a university without periodic deadlines (n = 46). Types of recitals attended were also examined. Results indicated positive opinions concerning recital attendance; however, respondents were neutral about the value of the recital attendance requirement itself. Respondents were also neutral about reported learning outcomes, although underclassmen reported significantly greater learning in regard to concert etiquette than upperclassmen. Respondents without periodic deadlines were found to be significantly more likely to procrastinate in completing the requirement and rated the value of recital attendance significantly lower ...
Ethanol has multiple effects on DNA synthesis in fibroblasts depending on the presence of secreted growth regulators and zinc as well as the level of protein kinase C activation.

Abstract Earlier we showed that in serum-starved (27 h), washed mouse fibroblasts and other cell lines 40–80 mM concentrations of ethanol (EtOH) potentiate, in a zinc (Zn 2+ )-dependent manner, the combined stimulatory effects of calcium (Ca 2+ ) and insulin (Ins) on DNA synthesis. We now report that the promitogenic EtOH effects require removal of the used medium at least 6 h prior to treatments with EtOH, Zn 2+ , and Ins. If serum-starved (27 h) cells were continuously incubated for another 18-h period without replacing the medium, a secreted cellular factor moderately enhanced the mitogenic effect of Ins and simultaneously blocked the potentiating effect of EtOH on DNA synthesis measured during the last hour of treatments. However, the presence of Ca 2+ (2.8 mM) plus Zn 2+ (25 μM) or 25–300 nM phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) during the serum starvation period partially restored the promitogenic effect of EtOH. The PMA effect was blocked by the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor GF 109203X added for the second (18 h) period. Even at 300 nM, PMA failed to fully downregulate PKC-α, the major PKC isoform, over a 28-h period, suggesting that an activated PKC enzyme was involved in the restoration of EtOH effect. When EtOH (40–80 mM) was added for the entire serum starvation period and the incubations were continued for 18 h without removing the medium, EtOH inhibited both the combined actions of Ins and cellular factor as well as the promoting effect of newly added EtOH on Ins-dependent DNA synthesis. Coaddition of Zn 2+ and PMA with EtOH prevented these inhibitory effects of EtOH. The results indicate that in mouse fibroblasts EtOH can both enhance and inhibit Ins-dependent DNA synthesis depending on the timing of EtOH treatment as well as the presence of Zn 2+ , cellular factors, and activators of the PKC system.
Lasers in the Limelight: What Will the Future Bring?

Early lasers produced too much heat and melted tooth enamel. But lasers improved enough to use in dentin bonding and composite curing and to detect carious enamel.
Studying spatial distributions of influenza hemagglutinin on the plasma membrane of fibroblasts: A work in progress

The major envelope protein of influenza virus, hemagglutinin (HA), mediates the fusion of virus to cell for infection, and can mediate cell-cell fusion. It has been studied as a raft protein, as it is found in detergent-resistant membranes (DRM) and trafficks apically in polarized epithelia. Moreover, the viral envelope of influenza itself is rich in sphingomyelin and cholesterol. Using both immunogold electron microscopy and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) microscopy, we are examining the distribution of HA on the surface of fibroblasts expressing wild-type HA.
The response of experimental animal tumors to neutron radiation therapy

Abstract Several transplantable rodent neoplasms have been treated with photons and 142-15 MeV D-T or cyclotron produced neutrons, using single doses as well as a variety of fractionation schemes and total treatment times which approach the time-dose relationships utilized in radiotherapy of human tumors. Several endpoints of response have been studied, including tumor growth delay, local tumor control and clonogenic cell survival. Responses of normal tissue, particularly skin and lung, have been used to calculate therapeutic gain factors (TGF = neutron RBE tumor /neutron RBE normal tissue ). The initial single fraction studies emphasized determinations of RBE and OER and corroborated the existence of an hypoxic fraction of cells in most solid tumors which limited the effectiveness of photon treatment. TGF's were found to be considerably larger than 1.0, due to neutron RBE's as high as 3.8 for tumor damage, based principally on existence of these hypoxic cells. Extensive fractionation scheme studies have been done with a few tumor lines, including C3H mouse mammary carcinomas and R-1 rhabdomyosarcomas. The importance of hypoxia, reoxygenation, and tumor cell repopulation changes have been most thoroughly studied. However, neutron KBE's for different endpoints in the same tumor system as well as RBE and TGF for various fractionation schemes vary in a manner not easily predicted. This variability is due mostly to fluctuation in response to photons; tumor damage by neutrons varies much less as a function of fractionation scheme. This complexity of tumor response to radiation has made it difficult to select criteria which would indicate which tumors are good candidates for neutron therapy. The studies of reoxygenation in C3H mammary tumors have done much to clarify the basis of low TGF for many fractionated neutron regimes used with those tumors. Other aspects of tumor radiobiology and dose limitation by different normal tissues need to be examined using fractionated radiation.
A technique for studying the aging of liquid foam under simulated conditions of microgravity

Abstract A liquid foam was aged while being slowly rotated about a horizontal axis so as to effectively cancel out the gross influence of gravity over time. The foam was then quickly hardened by photopolymerization and sectioned for study of its interior by standard stereological methods. This avoided boudary error while conveniently retaining permanent samples. Results showed slower aging, no directional drainage, and much greater stability of the foam when compared to results of control runs that did not employ rotation. Thus the aging of liquid foam can be studied more directly, essentially free of gravitational drainage, in a convenient earth-bound environment.
Neurokinin B peptide-2 neurons project from the hypothalamus to the thoracolumbar spinal cord of the rat.

Abstract The presence and location of CNS neurokinin B peptide-2-like immunoreactive neurons that project to the spinal cord were studied by a combination of retrograde transport of fluorescent dye (FluoroGold) and fluorescence immunocytochemistry. After injections of FluoroGold into the thoracic or lumbar segments of the rat spinal cord, serial sections of brain were stained with antisera directed against neurokinin B peptide-2. The results of the study showed that neurokinin B peptide-2-like immunoreactive neurons were located in the nucleus arcuate, median eminence, ventral and external bed nuclei of the stria terminalis, dorsal hypothalamic area, and medial habenula. Neurokinin B peptide-2 neurons that give rise to the long descending projections from the hypothalamus to thoracolumbar spinal cord were found only in the dorsal hypothalamic area. Approximately 36% of the neurokinin B peptide-2 neurons in the dorsal hypothalamic area projected to the spinal cord, whereas about 28% of the spinal projecting neurons in the dorsal hypothalamic area contained neurokinin B peptide-2-like immunoreactivity. Most of the spinal projecting neurokinin B peptide-2 neurons in the dorsal hypothalamic area had a cell size of 15 × 25 μm. In the spinal cord, immunoreactive neurokinin B peptide-2 fibers and terminals were distributed mainly in the superficial dorsal horn and the central autonomic area, with the highest density in laminae II and X, with less density in laminae IV and V. A few neurokinin peptide-2 fibers and terminals were also found in the ventral horn of the spinal cord. The results of the present study show that hypothalamic neurokinin B peptide-2 neurons are the main source of the spinal neurokinin B peptide-2.
Quasi-CW diode pumped Nd:KGW laser at low temperature

Abstract We have studied the laser performance of Nd: KGW and Nd: YAG rods by monitoring the 1.06 μm laser emission at 78.5 K and 300 K. Our observations indicate that the laser efficiency from Nd: KGW is much higher than from Nd: YAG at these two temperatures. The laser threshold in Nd: KGW is lower at 78.5 K than at 300 K but it is always lower than that in Nd:YAG.
Steady-state benchmarks of DK4D: A time-dependent, axisymmetric drift-kinetic equation solvera)

The DK4D code has been written to solve a set of time-dependent, axisymmetric, finite-Larmor-radius drift-kinetic equations (DKEs) for the non-Maxwellian part of the electron and ion distribution functions using the full, linearized Fokker–Planck–Landau collision operator. The plasma is assumed to be in the low- to finite-collisionality regime, as is found in the cores of modern and future magnetic confinement fusion experiments. Each DKE is formulated such that the perturbed distribution function carries no net density, parallel momentum, or kinetic energy. Rather, these quantities are contained within the background Maxwellians and would be evolved by an appropriate set of extended magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations. This formulation allows for straight-forward coupling of DK4D to existing extended MHD time evolution codes. DK4D uses a mix of implicit and explicit temporal representations and finite element and spectral spatial representations. These, along with other computational methods used, are discussed extensively. Steady-state benchmarks are then presented comparing the results of DK4D to expected analytic results at low collisionality, qualitatively, and to the Sauter analytic fits for the neoclassical conductivity and bootstrap current, quantitatively. These benchmarks confirm that DK4D is capable of solving for the correct, gyroaveraged distribution function in stationary magnetic equilibria. Furthermore, the results presented demonstrate how the exact drift-kinetic solution varies with collisionality as a function of the magnetic moment and the poloidal angle.
Communications: Protective Immunity Induced by a Commercial Vibrio Vaccine in Hybrid Striped Bass

Abstract Commercial Vibrio anguiliarum-V. ordalii bacterin was used to vaccinate hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis ♀ × M. chrysops ♂) to test the vaccine efficacy against vibriosis. Vaccination by direct immersion of fish in diluted Vibrio vaccine for 20 s resulted in increased protective immunity. The relative percent survival of hybrid striped bass challenged 35 d after vaccination was 66.7% for those challenged by 1-h immersion exposure to 7.03 × 107 V. anguillarum cells/mL, 75.0% for those challenged by injection with 3.51 × 105 cells/fish, and 86.7% for those challenged by injection with 3.51 × 104 cells/fish.
SELEX — Hadroproduction of charm baryons out to large xF

Fixed target charm experiments at Fermilab up till now have concentrated on weak decay physics, especially for charm mesons. Upcoming experiments continue the program, but SELEX will expand the focus to emphasize charm baryon physics along with charm meson studies. Unique features of the detector will permit us to collect 10 6 reconstructed charm events, half charm baryons, in the upcoming Fermilab run. In addition, the excellent angle and momentum resolution of the detector give rise to an additional program in small-t hadronic physics.
Characterization of a mouse monoclonal antibody specific for O-linked N-acetylglucosamine.

beta-O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) is an abundant posttranslational modification of resident nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins in eukaryotes. Increasing evidence suggests that O-GlcNAc plays a regulatory role in numerous cellular processes. Here we report on the production and characterization of a highly specific mouse monoclonal antibody, MAb CTD110.6, that specifically reacts with O-GlcNAc. The antibody recognizes O-GlcNAc in beta-O-glycosidic linkage to both serine and threonine. We could detect no cross-reactivity with alpha-linked Ser/Thr-O-GlcNAc, alpha-linked Ser-O-linked N-acetylgalactosamine (O-GalNAc), or N-linked oligosaccharides on ovalbumin and immunoglobulin G. The monosaccharide GlcNAc, but not GalNAc, abolishes immunoreactivity, further demonstrating specificity toward O-GlcNAc. Furthermore, galactose capping of O-GlcNAc sites also inhibits CTD110.6 immunoreactivity. Enrichment of GlcNAc-containing glycoproteins using the lectin wheat germ agglutinin dramatically enriches for CTD110.6-reactive proteins. The antibody reacts with a large number of proteins from cytoplasmic and nuclear extracts and readily detects in vivo changes in O-GlcNAc modification. These studies demonstrate that CTD110.6 is highly specific toward O-GlcNAc, with no cross-reactivity toward similar carbohydrate antigens or toward peptide determinants.
Probabilistic Estimation of Water Conservation Effectiveness

An analytical method is derived to describe the distribution of water quantity saved among customers within a water-use sector who adopt a water conservation action. Analytical results tend toward lognormal distributions with long tails, quantifying a smaller subset of customers that show potential to achieve large savings. Example effectiveness distributions are shown for seven long-term conservation actions potentially implemented by urban, domestic water users in Amman, Jordan. Monte Carlo simulations verify the analytical derivations. The probabilistic outputs contrast with common methods that estimate conservation action effectiveness as a product of typical (average) characteristics for disaggregated customer groups. Implications to size water conservation programs to meet conservation objectives and target customers to adopt conservation actions are discussed.
Increased functional protein expression using nucleotide sequence features enriched in highly expressed genes in zebrafish

Many genetic manipulations are limited by difficulty in obtaining adequate levels of protein expression. Bioinformatic and experimental studies have identified nucleotide sequence features that may increase expression, however it is difficult to assess the relative influence of these features. Zebrafish embryos are rapidly injected with calibrated doses of mRNA, enabling the effects of multiple sequence changes to be compared in vivo. Using RNAseq and microarray data, we identified a set of genes that are highly expressed in zebrafish embryos and systematically analyzed for enrichment of sequence features correlated with levels of protein expression. We then tested enriched features by embryo microinjection and functional tests of multiple protein reporters. Codon selection, releasing factor recognition sequence and specific introns and 3 untranslated regions each increased protein expression between1.5-and3-fold.Theseresultssuggestedprinciples for increasing protein yield in zebrafish through biomolecular engineering. We implemented these principles for rational gene design in software for codon selection (CodonZ) and plasmid vectors incorporating the most active non-coding elements. Rational gene design thus significantly boosts expression in zebrafish, and a similar approach will likely elevate expression in other animal models.
Synthesis of soft alkyl phenolic ether prodrugs using Mitsunobu chemistry

Abstract The synthesis of soft alkyl phenolic ether prodrugs in excellent yields has been reported by coupling a phenol with a hydroxymethylimide using Mitsunobu chemistry. The imides used in this study include saccharin, phthalimide, succinimide and two other compounds containing acidic imide-like N–H groups, benzotriazole, and imidazole.
A FACET‐FACTORIAL APPROACH TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF RATING SCALES TO MEASURE COMPLEX BEHAVIORS

The purpose of this study was to examine a technique for the development of performance rating scales to measure achievement in courses whose objectives require complex behaviors not easily measurable with paper and pencil achievement tests. A facet-factorial approach to rating scale construction was employed (i.e. the behavior was conceptualized as multidimensional and items for the scales were selected by employing factor analytical techniques) to construct scales to measure clarinet music performance. The three major results of the study were: I) a thirty-item rating scale based on a six factor structure of clarinet music performance; 2) high inter-judge reliability estimates for both the total score (above .90) and the scale scores (above .60); and, 3) criterion-related validity coefficients greater than .80. Results of the investigation suggest that the facet-factorial approach can be an effective technique for the construction of rating scales to measure complex behavior such as music performance. The purpose of this study was to examine a technique for the development of performance rating scales to measure achievement in courses whose objectives require complex behaviors not easily measurable with paper and pencil achievement tests. A facetfactorial (Butt & Fiske, 1968) approach to rating scale construction was applied to the construction of rating scales for the evaluation of clarinet music performance. The facet-factorial approach consists of conceptualizing the behavior as multidimensioned and employing factor analytical procedures to select items for the scales. One of the main difficulties in the evaluation of complex behaviors is that the measures employed are typically subjective judgments based on irregular and uncontrolled observations (Ebel, 1965; Whybrew, 1962). A consensus among judges concerning adequacy of a performance is difficult to obtain. The replacement of judges'
Synthesis and fluorescence study of 7-azaindole in DNA oligonucleotides replacing a purine base.

Abstract The fluorescence spectroscopy of 7-azaindole (7aIn) incorporated in DNA oligonucleotides is investigated. Incorporation of 7aIn into DNA oligonucleotides is accomplished through standard solid-phase phosphoramidite chemistry. Fluorescence emission of the 7aIn chromophore shifts slightly to the red (from 386 nm to 388 nm) upon glycosylation at the N−1 position, but its relative fluorescence quantum yield increases 23 times, from 0.023 to 0.53. Upon incorporation into DNA, the fluorescence emission of 7aIn is greatly quenched with fluorescence quantum yields of 0.020 and 0.016 in single and double strand DNA, respectively. The fluorescence emission for 7aIn in DNA oligonucleotides shifts to the blue with an emission maximum at 379 nm. Both the strong fluorescence quenching and the blue shift of the emission spectrum signify that 7aIn is stacked with neighboring DNA bases in both single and double strand DNA. As the duplex DNA melts due to temperature increase, the fluorescence of the 7aIn chromophore increases, indicating the transition from the less fluorescent duplex DNA to the more fluorescent single strand DNA. Since this fluorescent 7aIn is a structural analog of purine, its fluorescence property may be utilized as a probe for studying nucleic acid structure and dynamics.
The nonlinear bending response of thin-walled laminated composite cylinders

The geometrically nonlinear Donnell shell theory is applied to the problem of stable bending of thin-walled circular cylinders. Responses are computed for cylinders with a radius-to-thickness ratio of 50 and length-to-radius ratios of 1 and 5. Four laminated composite cylinders and an aluminum cylinder are considered. Critical moment estimates are presented for short cylinders for which compression-type buckling behavior is important, and for very long cylinders for which the cross-section flattening, i.e., Brazier effect, is important. A finite element analysis is used to estimate the critical end rotation in addition to establishing the range of validity of the prebuckling analysis. The radial displacement response shows that the character of the boundary layer is significantly influenced by the geometric nonlinearities. Application of a first ply failure analysis using the maximum stress criterion suggests that in nearly all instances material failure occurs before buckling. Failure of the composite cylinders can be attributed to fiber breakage. Striking similarities are seen between the prebuckling displacements of the bending problem and axial compression problem for short cylinders.
Oncogenic potential of bcl-2 demonstrated by gene transfer

Follicular lymphoma is the most common human B-cell malignancy in the United States and Western Europe1. Most of the tumours contain t(14;18) chromosome translocations involving the human bcl-2 gene2–5. Translocation of bcl-2 sequences from chromosome 18 into the transcriptionally active immunoglobulin locus at chromosome band 14q32 in B cells deregulates bcl-2 gene expression, resulting in the accumulation of high levels of bcl-2 messenger3. Human bcl-2 transcripts generate two proteins, p26 bcl-2-α and p22 bcl-2-β, by virtue of alternative splice-site selection2. Both proteins have in common their first 196 NH2-terminal amino acids but share little similarity with other sequences in a data bank2,4. Although the biological and biochemical functions of bcl-2 are unknown, recent subcellular localization studies indi-cate that p26 bcl-2-α associates with cellular membranes, con-sistent with a stretch of hydrophobic amino acids in its carboxy terminus1,2,6. The bcl-2 gene may represent a novel oncogene having no known retroviral counterpart. Here we demonstrate the oncogenic potential of bcl-2 through a gene transfer approach.
A simple neutron diffractometer for low angle biological studies

Abstract We have found that a spectrometer using roughened cadmium plated Soller slits and a pyrolytic graphite analyser of 1° mosaic (matching analyser dispersion to sample dispersion) can be sufficient to perform some scattering experiments on viruses and enzyme complexes in solution.
StenSAL: A Single Assignment Language for Relentlessly Executing Explicit Stencil Algorithms

Many different scientific domains make use of stencil-based algorithms to solve mathematical equations for computational modeling and simulation. Existing imperative languages map well onto physical hardware, but can be difficult for domain scientists to map to mathematical stencil algorithms. StenSAL is a domain specific language which is tailored to the expression of explicit stencil algorithms through deterministic tasks chained together through single assignment data dependencies, and generates programs that map to the relentless execution model of computation. We provide a description of the StenSAL language and grammar, some of the sanity checks that can be performed on StenSAL programs before code generation, and how the compiler translates StenSAL into Python.
Satellite ocean remote sensing at NOAA/NESDIS

Satellite oceanography within the Center for Satellite Applications and Research (STAR) in National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) focuses on observation retrievals and applications to address the NOAA missions of environmental assessment, prediction, and stewardship. Satellite oceanography within NOAA/NESDIS is an end-to-end process, addressing user requirements, sensor design support, observation retrieval research and development, calibration, applications and product research and development, the transition of research to operations, continuing product validation, and operational user support. The breadth of scientific investigation encompasses three functional areas: satellite ocean sensors, ocean dynamics/data assimilation, and marine ecosystems/climate. A cross-cutting science team from these functional areas has been established for each core subject: sea-surface temperature, sea-surface height, sea-surface roughness, ocean color, ocean surface winds, and sea ice. These science teams pursue the science and issues end to end within the core subject, with the primary objective being the transition of research to operations. Data fusion opportunities between science teams are also pursued. Each science team area addresses the common themes of calibration/validation, data assimilation, climate, and operational oceanography. Experimental and operational products, as well as user support, are provided to the user community via the NOAA OceanWatch/CoastWatch program.
Interstimulus interval and viewing time effects in monkey list memory

Two rhesus monkeys were tested in 6- and 10-item list memory tasks for performance changes as a function of the exposure duration of the list stimuli and the interstimulus interval (ISI) between successive list stimuli. Accuracy increased with longer item exposure duration and tended to decrease with longer ISI duration. Humans, by contrast, typically show increases in accuracy with ISI, a result taken as evidence of rehearsal. The decrease in accuracy for monkeys suggests that they were not using rehearsal processes in these list memory experiments. Further tests in which choice accuracy with predictable ISIs was compared with choice accuracy with unpredictable ISIs also yielded no evidence of rehearsal by the monkeys. This apparent absence of rehearsal mechanisms in monkeys, in situations also shown to support human rehearsal, is discussed as a potential difference in the visual working memory processes of the two species.
Distinctions between stereotyped sniffing and licking in rats with methamphetamine and apomorphine.

Abstract Apomorphine-induced sniffing and licking were measured in normal rats and in rats treated chronically with methamphetamine. A dosage of 0.3 mg/kg apomorphine elicited a large, reliable pattern of sniffing and licking, but no biting. As apomorphine dosage was increased to 0.7 mg/kg in normal rats, sniffing increased whereas licking decreased. Methamphetamine treatment reduced the duration, but increased the frequency, of sniffing, and decreased the frequency of licking.