cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Secreted phospholipase A2 group X overexpression in asthma and bronchial hyperresponsiveness.

Rationale: Secreted phospholipase A2 enzymes (sPLA2s) play key regulatory roles in the biosynthesis of eicosanoids, such as the cysteinyl leukotrienes, but the role of these enzymes in the pathogenesis of asthma is not known. Objectives: To establish if sPLA2s are overexpressed in the airways of patients with asthma, and to determine if these enzymes may play a role in the generation of eicosanoids in exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Methods: Induced sputum samples were obtained from subjects with asthma with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and nonasthmatic control subjects at baseline, and on a separate day 30 minutes after exercise challenge. The expression of the PLA2s in induced sputum cells and supernatant was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunocytochemistry, and Western blot. Measurements and Main Results: The sPLA2s expressed at the highest levels in airway cells of subjects with asthma were groups X and XIIA. Group X sPLA2 (sPLA2-X) was differentially overexpressed in asthma and localized to airway epithelial cells and bronchial macrophages. The gene expression, immunostaining in airway epithelial cells and bronchial macrophages, and the level of the extracellular sPLA2-X protein in the airways increased in response to exercise challenge in the asthma group, whereas the levels were lower and unchanged after challenge in nonasthmatic control subjects. Conclusions: Increased expression of sPLA2-X may play a key role in the dysregulated eicosanoid synthesis in asthma.
Collagen Cross-Linking

The structural macromolecules of the extracellular matrix have been investigated with rapidly increasing activity and depth in the past decade. Collagen, and to a lesser extent, elastin, were among the earliest of this group to be studied in more detail than the proteoglycans and adhesive glycoproteins. Consequently, the extent of knowledge concerning collagen is greater than any of the other structural macromolecules; one index of this phenomenon is the large number of symposia and monographs which have been devoted to collagen in the past generation. One can virtually trace an exponential growth curve of the literature concerning the structure, function and biological properties of the protein. Probably such extensive interest reflects the great abundance of collagen, its widespread industrial applications, its purported roles in developmental biology, its phylogenetic diversity, and its primary role as the major structural polymer of most animal tissues.
Embattled Bench: The Pennsylvania Supreme Court and the Forging of a Democratic Society, 1684-1809

This book looks at the early Pennsylvania Supreme Court, examining conditions and forces within Pennsylvania that shaped and influenced the court and demonstrating ways in which the court touched the lives of all Pennsylvanians.
Inelastic Scattering of Electrons from Solids

The energy distribution of electrons scattered inelastically from solid targets has been studied for primary energies from 50 to 400 volts, using a method of magnetic deflection. Target surfaces of Cu, Ag and Au were deposited by evaporation in vacuum immediately before the measurements were made. For certain values of the energy loss suffered by the scattered electron the curves exhibit maxima, which are characteristic of the material of the target and independent of the primary voltage in the range studied. All three metals have two maxima below 10 volts, the most pronounced one being that for Ag at 3.9 volts. These maxima appear to correspond roughly to the regions of high optical absorption for the same substance. An estimate of the depth of penetration of the scattered electron was obtained from energy distribution measurements on films of Ca, CaO, Ba and BaO of known thickness, deposited on Ag. The results indicate, that the inelastic scattering is determined by the first few atomic layers near the surface. The fresh deposits of Ca and Ba show a very high rate of oxidation, even when the total pressure is ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}7}$ mm; the distribution curves for the oxide are entirely different from those for the parent metal and exhibit a rather complicated structure. Measurements of the energy distribution of scattered electrons should in some cases prove a sensitive tool for the study of surfaces. A deposit of 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{14}$ atoms/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ of Ca on CaO\char22{} less than a monatomic layer in the Ca-crystal\char22{}is easily detected by this method.
Premature Closure of the Mitral and Tricuspid Valves

Premature closure of an atrioventricular valve was observed in 80 of a group of 519 subjects catheterized for aortic insufficiency (AI) or mitral insufficiency (MI), or both. Sole premature mitral closure (PMC) was present in nine subjects, sole premature tricuspid closure (PTC) in 40, and combined PMC and PTC in 31. Clinically PMC was associated with a first sound that was soft or absent in 75% and an atrial contraction sound in 50% of the subjects with dominant aortic insufficiency. PMC or PTC, or both, were verified at surgery in three subjects and were produced experimentally in intact dogs by acute AI. The presence of PMC and PTC appears related to the severity and chronicity of valvular disease.
Direct observation of the 3R-stacking sequence in Cu/1bZn/1bSi martensite

Abstract Martensite formed on quenching a CuZnSi alloy exhibits the 3R structure which results from regularly distributed shifts in the stacking of close-packed planes (i.e., ABC/BCA/CAB/). The periodic stacking shifts with a spacing of 6.3A have been observed directly using high resolution, dark field electron microscopy.
A comparison of in situ vitrification and rotary kiln incineration for soils treatment.

In the hazardous waste community, the term “thermal destruction” is a catchallphrase that broadly refers to high temperature destruction of hazardous contaminants. Included in the thermal destruction category are treatment technologies such as rotary kiln incineration, fiuidized bed incineration, infrared thermal treatment, wet air oxidation, pyrolytic incineration, and vitrification. Among them, conventional rotary kiln incineration, a disposal method for many years, is the most well established, and often serves as a barometer to gauge the relative success of similar technologies. Public sentiment on environmental issues and increasingly stringent environmental regulations has, over time, spurred design and development of innovative thermal treatment processes directed toward reducing harmful emissions and residuals that may require further treatment or disposal. In situ vitrification (ISV), a technology that combines heat and immobiliztion, is one such innovative and relatively new technology. This pap...
DETERMINATION OF INTERMEDIATES AND SUBSIDIARY COLORS IN THE COLOR ADDITIVE FD&C RED NO. 4 (PONCEAU SX) USING HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY

Specifications in the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations for the color additive FD&C Red No. 4 (Color Index 14700) limit the levels of the intermediates, 5-amino-2,4-dimethyl-1-benzenesulfonic acid (AMBSA) and 4-hydroxy-1-naphthalenesulfonic acid (HNSA), and of subsidiary colors. The present study reports the development of a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the quantitative determination of these intermediates and subsidiary colors in one analysis. The most commonly-found subsidiary color, 3-[(2,4-dimethyl-6-sulfophenyl)azo]-4-hydroxy-1-naphthalenesulfonic acid (6SSC), is determined and is used as a secondary reference material to determine the quantities of other subsidiary colors present. High-speed countercurrent chromatography was used to obtain purified HNSA and 6SSC for use as reference materials. AMBSA, HNSA, and 6SSC were quantified by using five-point calibration curves with data points that ranged from 0.028–0.234%, 0.031–0.252%, and 0.113–2.036% by weight, respectively. T...
Dimensions and specificities of recognition sites on lectins and antibodies

A comparison is made of the specific combining sites of a number of lectins and of antibodies with emphasis on those reacting with blood group A, B, and H determinants. The ranges of site sizes and specificities of both groups are similar both from immunochemical studies and from the limited x-ray diffraction data available.
An intersection theory count of the SL2(C)-representations of the fundamental group of a 3-manifold

Abstract We define an invariant of closed 3-manifolds counting the signed equivalence classes of representations of the fundamental group in SL 2 ( C ) . The invariant is an SL 2 ( C ) -analog of the Casson-Walker invariant for SU(2). We reinterpret the invariant algebro-geometrically and show that it is non-negative. We relate the invariant to a generalization of the norm of Culler, Gordon, Luecke and Shalen. We show that an analog of the Casson-Walker knot invariant exists in this setting. We obtain a Dehn surgery formula for the invariant for manifolds which are the result of Dehn surgery on knots in integral homology spheres, where the surgery coefficients obey certain technical conditions.
Charisma and Obedience: A Risk Cognition Approach

Abstract Weber's account of charisma solved certain specific problems in the philosophy of law by using a concept from the history of church law. The concept Weber generalized from, originally formulated by R. Sohm, relied on the notion of divine inspiration; Weber's uses required a substitute causal force. The standard substitutes are culturalist, in which the power of the charismatic leader or the state comes from meeting cultural expectations for leaders, or contractual, in which leaders give followers something they want. Neither account squares with the fundamental use of the idea, to explain cultural innovation and internal change in followers. A new model of the character of charisma that fits these needs is proposed. In it, the leader is seen as a person who both offers a choice of a new vision of risks and opportunities and, through his or her own conduct, provides evidence of the realizability of this vision through submission. The example of Frank Lorenzo, a case of business charisma, is discussed in detail.
Molecular events in B lymphocyte activation: consequences of signals transduced through MHC class II molecules.

Abstract Evidence is presented to demonstrate that murine B lymphocytes receive growth stimulatory signals from their surface class II molecules. Monoclonal anti-la antibodies enhanced anti-μ-induced B cell proliferative response. The signals through surface immunoglobulin (Ig) and Ia appeared to act sequentially since preexposure to anti-μ was required to observe anti-la-induced increase in B cell proliferation. Anti-Ia antibodies did not increase the number of B cells entering the G 1 phase of cell cycle but always enhanced transition from G 1 into the S phase in response to stimulation with anti-μ. Analysis of early gene expression revealed that signaling through class II molecules led to an increase in anti-μ-induced expression of c-myc , a proto-oncogene, and of ornithine decarboxylase, a key enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis that has been shown to be intimately related to increased cell proliferation.
Genetic Diversity of Contemporary North American Barley

Crop diversity has important implications for genetic vulnerability and potential for crop improvement. Genetic diversity was estimated by coefficient of parentage (CP) among 363 contemporary North American barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivars registered during the era of 1970 through 2006. This was facilitated by using pedigree lineage derived from U.S. Plant Variety Protection Certificates and/or registration articles. Overall diversity, as measured through CP, was estimated at 0.023 for this era. Diversity was greater among feed (CP = 0.020) than among malt barley (0.111) cultivars. The estimate of genetic diversity was much lower (CP = 0.141) among 23 widely grown cultivars that constituted 87% of the U.S. harvested barley hectarage from 2001 through 2005. Within these 23 elite cultivars, diversity was substantially lower for six-row malting barley (CP = 0.574) versus two-row malting barley (CP = 0.237). Most prevalent types of breeding populations used for development of the 363 North American barley cultivars registered from 1970 through 2005 were two-parent cross (used for 44% of new cultivars), complex cross (25%), and three-parent cross (14%). Barley breeding progress for grain yield improvement was estimated at 4.4% per breeding cycle using yield comparison of progeny and parents across environments. Barley germplasm available is genetically diverse, recycling leading commercial cultivars predominates and this breeding strategy has been successful.
Reverse osmosis separations for some alcohols and phenols in aqueous solutions using aromatic polyamide membranes

The performance of aromatic polyamide membranes for reverse osmosis separations of eight alcohol and four phenol solutes in dilute aqueous solutions has been studied. The Taft polar parameter σ* for the solutes studied were in the range of −0.3 to 1.388. Positive solute separations were obtained for each one of the solutes. In the σ* value range of −0.3 to 0, data on PR/PWP ratio scattered close to 1, and solute separation decreased with increase in σ*. For the phenol solutes, PR/PWP ratio decreased and solute separation increased with increase in σ*. The results are interpreted on the following basis. The aromatic polyamides are more nonpolar than cellulose acetates. In the σ* range of −0.115 to −0.3, solute separation is governed primarily by polar interactions; in this range, solute transport parameter DAM/Kδ is well correlated by the expression DAM/Kδ = C* exp (ρ*σ*). The solute separation for ethyl and methyl alcohol solutes (σ* = −0.1 and 0, respectively) is reduced by the nonpolar character of the membrane material. Positive solute separation for each of the phenolic solutes is due to preferential sorption of solute at the membrane-solution interface caused by both the nonpolar character of the membrane material and acidity of the solutes.
Strength, Toughness And Fracture Initiation Of Fluoride Glasses

A ZBLAL fluoride glass produced at NRL was characterized mechanically both in bulk and fiber forms. Fracture toughness measurements gave Ki values of 0.38 ± 0.05 MPa.m1/2, about 1/2 that of Si0 2 glasses. Flexural strength of machined bars of the current ZBLAL glasses was about 60MPa, about 80% of similarly finished silicate glasses. While the fluoride glass has lower strength than Si0 2 glass, it had much less slow crack growth, which should give it a longer useful life over a range of stresses. Although the average tensile strength of fibers from initial fiber drawing trials was only about 170 MPa, fractographic examinations indicated that the useful strength of this fiber could be raised considerably with improved processing.
Levator Veli Palatini Muscle Activity in Relation to Intraoral Air Pressure Variation in Cleft Palate Subjects

A comparison of the ranges of levator veli palatini EMG activity for speech versus a nonspeech task for subjects with cleft palate was the focus of this study. EMG values are also compared with subjects without cleft palate obtained in a previous study. Hooked-wire electrodes were inserted into the levator muscle of five adult subjects with cleft palate exhibiting mild hypernasality. Intraoral air pressure was measured concurrently. A blowing task was used to determine the subject's operating range for the levator muscle. Both the nonspeech and speech tasks were designed to sample the widest possible ranges of levator EMG activity. It was found that the subjects with cleft palate used a relatively high activation level for the levator muscle during speech, in relation to their total activation range, compared with the subjects without cleft palate. Implications are discussed in relation to possible anatomic and physiologic differences for cleft palate subjects compared to normal.
Nominations sought for extractive industries committee

U.S. secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced on 26 July the establishment of a national committee to guide U.S. implementation of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. The Interior Department is seeking nominations of people interested in serving on the committee, which will be convened as a new federal advisory group. The initiative calls on governments to publicly disclose revenues from oil, gas, and mining assets and for companies to make disclosures about payments. U.S. president Barack Obama announced the commitment of the United States to participate in this initiative as part of the U.S. National Action Plan for the International Open Government Partnership.
Surface electrochemical oxidation and polymerization mechanism of epicatechin

Abstract Electrochemical process of epicatechin, one of the flavonoids antioxidants, was studied here by cyclic voltammetry and semiempirical molecular orbital computation (MOPAC). Electrochemical oxidation of epicatechin showed a multistep mechanism with two anodic peaks being recognized at about +0.14 V and +0.52 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). The first peak is strong concentration dependent, showing an adsorptive feature between 1 × 10 −8 M and 2 × 10 −7 M, a diffusion controlled feature between 2 × 10 −7 M and 1 × 10 −5 M, and a surface polymerization feature between 1 × 10 −5 M and 1 × 10 −3 M. Computation showed that the first electron was released at 4′-hydroxyl group in B-ring. No charge delocalization occurs between A- and B-rings. Higher pH medium favors oxidation. The oxidation rate is faster in strong acidic or basic medium and slower in a weak acidic medium. This research may help to explain the complexity of antioxidant activity of flavonoids and as a complement method to characterize the role of flavonoids antioxidants in treating oxidative stress diseases.
Human retinal pigment cell culture

Human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-derived cell lines were established from RPE-covered choroid tissue fragments, which had been generated by culture on nontissue culture plastic. Two phenotypes were apparent in a given line: (a) a compact cell which formed domes and ultimately melanosomes before being sloughed; and (b) a squamous cell which was often elongated and which bound antibody to human keratins. This latter cell did not become black or form domes. The average number of cell doublings for the 13 lines tested was between 15 and 40 when cultured in a modified Eagle's minimum essential medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum. Cell lines newly established from material that had been in culture for more than 6 months had normal mitotic chromosomes and still developed areas with strongly pigmented cells when refed. Normal human epithelial cell lines of this kind may be useful in studies of cell aging and defining change associated with the development of neural cells from ectoderm.
The effects of alcoholism and smoking on platelet eicosanoid production in vitro

Ethanol induces changes in eicosanoid synthesis in blood platelets and brain tissue. Cigarette smoking also causes alterations in eicosanoid formation. This preliminary report examined in vitro platelet sonicate eicosanoid production using 14C-arachidonic acid (14C-AA) and in separate experiments, 14C-PGH2, as substrates. Radiometric thin layer chromatography (TLC) was used to identify the products formed. Eicosanoid product formation in platelet sonicates collected from 28 abstinent male alcoholics were compared to those from 11 male control subjects. All but one of the alcoholics were chronic smokers and all control subjects were non-smokers. All smokers abstained from smoking for 12 h prior to the blood collection to control for any acute effects of cigarette smoke on eicosanoid production. Significant reductions in platelet sonicate production of PGD2 and PGE2 in vitro were observed in alcoholic smokers when 14C-PGH2, but not 14C-AA, was the substrate. These reductions were predicted equally well by two variables, smoking and alcoholism, using several statistical models. This is the first investigation that controlled for the acute effects of smoking and accounted for the potential effects of cigarette smoking on platelet eicosanoid production in alcoholics. Because cigarette smoking is prevalent among alcoholics, future studies on the role of eicosanoids in alcoholism should control for smoking.
The Photo-electric Effect of Carbon as Influenced by its Absorbed Gases

THE existing contradictory results on the photoelectric effect of carbon can be explained by means of the quantity and quality of the gases absorbed by the carbon. The influences of ammonia, hydrogen, air, and carbon dioxide were investigated. The most consistent results were obtained from carbonised bamboo and hydrogen. Saturation curves showed ammonia to be the most active, and carbon dioxide the least. Distribution of velocity curves were obtained for bamboo and hydrogen. The maximum initial velocity was found to be independent of the quantity of hydrogen absorbed, while the maximum current was proportional to the quantity of gas absorbed.
Entrapment of herbicides in starch for spray applications

Abstract Sprayable controlled-release formulations were made with the herbicides trifluralin, 2,4-D ester, alachlor and butylate. Aqueous dispersions of gelatinized cornstarches or flours containing herbicides were sprayed and dried to water-resistant films that entrapped the herbicide. Formulations containing 3% Miragel®, 3% cooked pearl, or 7% pregelatinized corn flour and one tenth these levels of active ingredient (a.i.) provided as emulsifiable concentrates had stable viscosities in the 75–260 cP range over 24 hours. The best entrapment was obtained by cooking 3% starches or flours at least 30 min at 100° C and dispersing the emulsifiable concentrates into the cooled whole pastes. Dried formulations based upon 3% Miragel® entrapped 88% trifluralin, 96% 2,4-D ester, 75% alachlor, and 9% butylate. Butylate retention increased to 42% with 6% Miragel® that had been pyrolyzed 1 h at 200° C. Release of trifluralin from Miragel® in the presence of αamylase solution increased with decreasing particle size and increasing level of active ingredient.
1-D and 2-D forms of Copper Sulfide: Electrochemical Deposition and Morphological Analysis

Copper sulfide is a material with immense potential for applications in photovoltaics. Particularly, copper sulfide 1-D nanostructures (i.e. nanowires, nanorods) with well-defined morphologies may enable new types of applications or may enhance the performance of existing photoelectric devices with quantum confinement effects. In this work, we report the synthesis of copper sulfide nanorods by simple, yet very effective template assisted electrochemical deposition. Before synthesizing 1-D copper sulfide nanorods, a detailed study was conducted on electrodeposited 2-D copper sulfide films to ascertain the right parameters for electrodeposition including; electrolyte composition, temperature, deposition potential and membrane type. Excellent structural properties of these resultant nanorods make them desirable for applications in the future nano-opto-electronic devices.
Changes in Adrenal Enzymes synthesizing Catecholamines in Attack Behaviour evoked by Hypothalamic Stimulation in the Cat

Changes in Adrenal Enzymes synthesizing Catecholamines in Attack Behaviour evoked by Hypothalamic Stimulation in the Cat
Properties of Auln 2 resistors for Josephson integrated circuits

The influences of film thickness and composition on the resistivity and microstructure of AuIn2, films, which are used as resistors in Josephson integrated circuits, have been investigated. The films were prepared by evaporating Au and In layers onto SiO-coated Si wafers held at 348 K. The resistivity at 4.2 K was found to be ≅5 µΩ-cm for 40-nm-thick films and to vary as ≅d-0.76 over the thickness range 30-250 nm. Corresponding sheet resistances ranged from 0.05 to 2 Ω/cm. Resistivity changes were also observed as the composition was altered. A decrease of ≅10% in the In/Au thickness ratio from that of AuIn2, produced an increase of ≅50% in resistivity. A similar increase in In/Au ratio produced ≤10% decrease in resistivity. Electron microscopy analysis revealed that the grain size of AuIn2 films increases with film thickness, and is approximately two times smaller for the low In/Au ratio films than for those of nominal or larger In/Au ratios. The factors governing the resistivity of AuIn2 films were analyzed using the Fuchs surface scattering and Mayadas-Shatzkes (M-S) grain boundary scattering theories. It was found that M-S theory can be used to explain the resistivity data for a range of choices of r and p, the grain-boundary-reflection and surface-rejection coeficients, respectively. Reasonable agreement was obtained for parameter values between r = 0.31, p = 0, pl = 3 × 10-11 Ω-cm2 and r = 0.74, p = 1, pl = 0.8 × 10-11 Ω-cm2. The available evidence is interpreted as favoring grain boundary scattering as the dominant scattering mechanism.
Raman and ESR studies of the thermal history of amorphous SiO2

Abstract The room temperature structure of vitreous SiO 2 is known to change subtly with thermal history. This paper reviews Raman and ESR spectroscopic observations that reveal some of these changes and show that the rate of structural relaxation depends very strongly on trace water (OH) content.
Comparative analysis of the global transcriptome of Anopheles funestus from Mali, West Africa.

Background Anopheles funestus is a principal vector of malaria across much of tropical Africa and is considered one of the most efficient of its kind, yet studies of this species have lagged behind those of its broadly sympatric congener, An. gambiae. In aid of future genomic sequencing of An. funestus, we explored the whole body transcriptome, derived from mixed stage progeny of wild-caught females from Mali, West Africa.
Mystery of the Alkali Metals: Giant Moments of Fe and Co on and in Cs films

Thin films of Cs are covered with $\frac{1}{100}$ of a monolayer of Fe or Co. Then the impurities are covered with several atomic layers of Cs. The magnetization of the films is measured by means of the anomalous Hall effect. The magnetization follows a Brillouin function with a magnetic moment of about 8 Bohr magnetons for Co on the surface and in the bulk of the Cs. For the Fe impurities, a magnetic moment of 7 Bohr magnetons is observed. These large moments suggest that the $3d$ impurities polarize the conduction electrons of the Cs similar to the giant moments in Pd.
The biogenesis of the anthocyanins. III. The role of sugars in anthocyanin formation.

Abstract Anthocyanin formation in growing cultures of Spirodela is promoted by sucrose but not by glucose; conversely, growth is promoted by glucose but not by sucrose. Fructose is intermediate in both respects. In non-growing cultures, however, all three sugars are equally effective in promoting anthocyanin formation. A number of treatments which increase or decrease the anthocyanin content have parallel effects on the reducing sugar content. A plot of anthocyanin content against reducing sugar content shows a smooth relationship. Variations in the sucrose content are smaller and show no parallelism with pigmentation. It is deduced that anthocyanin may be formed independently from any of the three sugars, but that glucose is preferentially consumed for growth. Phosphate apparently does not participate in the formation of anthocyanin, and if the process does take place directly from sugars it probably does not proceed via the usual glycolytic pathway, since none of a number of glycolytic intermediates gives rise to any anthocyanin. There is some evidence for a participation of meso -inositol in the biogenesis of anthocyanin. The effects of quinic and shikimic acids appear too small for them to be considered as intermediates. Phosphate appears to be no more required with inositol than with the sugars.
Oxidative stress and fatigue in systemic lupus erythematosus

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship of oxidative stress to fatigue in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of SLE by ACR criteria and healthy controls completed validated questionnaires to assess depression and fatigue. Fatigue was measured with the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and the Profile of Fatigue (Prof-F). Visual analogue scales (VAS) were also used to assess fatigue and pain. Depression was measured with the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Plasma F2-isoprostane was measured with gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy to assess oxidative stress. Evaluation included medical record review, physical exam and calculation of body mass index (BMI), disease activity (SLEDAI) and damage (SLICC) in the SLE patients. Results: Seventy-one SLE patients with low disease activity (mean SLEDAI = 1.62 standard error (SE) 0.37, range 0–8) were compared to 51 controls. Fatigue-limiting physical activity (defin...
Occurrence of chromian, hercynitic spinel (“pleonaste”) in Apollo-14 samples and its petrologic implications

Abstract Many isolated grains of a reddish pleonaste-type spinel occur in fines and metabreccia samples, particularly 14 319. Electron microprobe analyses (104) of spinels and their associated phases include 58 of pleonaste which show Mg/(Mg + Fe) 0.44–0.62 and Cr/(Cr + Al) 0.017–0.134 (atomic), plus minor amounts of other ions, and differ greatly from almost all previously recorded lunar spinels; almost no spinels of intermediate composition were found. Two types of compositional zoning exist: a diffuse primary one with cores lower in Ti, and a narrow secondary one from reaction with matrix yielding rims higher in Cr, Ti, and Mn. At contacts with breccia matrix there is a narrow corona of almost pure plagioclase (An80-An94), free of opaque minerals and pyroxene. Two types of solid inclusions found in the pleonaste are calcic plagioclase, and tiny spherical masses of nickel-rich sulfide. Similar pleonaste occurs in crystalline rock clasts, mainly with plagioclase; one clast (A) consists only of coarse olivine, plagioclase, and pleonaste, with granulated grain boundaries suggestive of deformation. From composition and texture, this clast is one possible candidate for the mafic cumulate counterpart of the “anorthositic” crust. Another clast (B), also made solely of olivine, plagioclase and pleonaste, is itself a breccia. These data suggest a two-stage brecciation process: 1) disruption (probably pre-Imbrian) of a deep-seated pleonaste-bearing source rock like A and reconsolidation to form a breccia without addition of pyroxene, ilmenite or other minerals; and 2) disruption of this breccia to yield breccia clast B which was then incorporated into the Fra Mauro formation.
Test for Additive Interaction in Proportional Hazards Models

Purpose We describe a method for testing and estimating a two-way additive interaction between two categorical variables, each of which has greater than or equal to two levels. Methods We test additive and multiplicative interactions in the same proportional hazards model and measure additivity by relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), proportion of disease attributable to interaction (AP), and synergy index (S). A simulation study was used to compare the performance of these measures of additivity. Data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities cohort study with a total of 15,792 subjects were used to exemplify the methods. Results The test and measures of departure from additivity depend neither on follow-up time nor on the covariates. The simulation study indicates that RERI is the best choice of measures of additivity using a proportional hazards model. The examples indicated that an interaction between two variables can be statistically significant on additive measure (RERI = 1.14, p = 0.04) but not on multiplicative measure (β3 = 0.59, p = 0.12) and that additive and multiplicative interactions can be in opposite directions (RERI = 0.08, β3 = –0.08). Conclusions The method has broader application for any regression models with a rate as the dependent variable. In the case that both additive and multiplicative interactions are statistically significant and in the opposite direction, the interpretation needs caution.
An accident and emergency department's view of self-poisoning: a retrospective study from the United Norwich Hospitals 1978-1982

This 5-year review of deliberate self-poisoning cases seen in an accident and emergency department revealed that about 700 patients were seen per year. Three-quarters of these needed admission (forming some 15% of all hospital admissions). Of these 65% were referred to the psychiatrist. The remaining quarter were dealt with in the accident and emergency department. Analysis of the data identifies problems where further research is needed. In particular the question is raised as to whether these patients would not be better dealt with in an acute medical unit now that accident departments are turning their attention increasingly to the management of trauma.
The role of fungi in periodically inundated Amazonian forests

In a comparative survey the terms (terra-firme) flood plain, igapo, varzea with and without black water influence are reviewed and the importance of ectotrophic mycorrhiza for their definition emphasized. Varzea alta with fluvisol base is briefly characterized and a first list of Basidiomycetes collected in it is provided. These are all non-mycorrhizal litter fungi.
Mouse outer hair cells lacking the α9 ACh receptor are motile

Abstract Efferent nerve fibers form chemical synapses at the bases of outer hair cells (OHC), with acetylcholine (ACh) being their principal neurotransmitter. The activation of ACh receptors on OHCs is known to influence cochlear function. These efferent effects exhibit an unusual pharmacology and are generally known to be inhibitory. Recent evidence suggests that an ACh receptor subunit, known as α9, plays a dominant role in mediating the olivocochlear neurotransmission to OHCs. In this investigation, we attempt to determine the possible role(s) of the α9 subunit in regulating OHC function by examining OHC electromotility and compound action potentials (CAP) in mice carrying a null mutation for the α9 gene. Results indicate that cochlear sensitivity, based on CAP thresholds, is similar for homozygous mutant and wild-type mice. Electromotility is also present in OHCs, independent of whether the α9 subunit is present or absent.
Duration of illness predicts outcome for bulimia nervosa: A long-term follow-up study

Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate long-term outcome and prognosis in a bulimic and subthreshold bulimic sample. Method In a follow-up study, 44 patients diagnosed with bulimia nervosa and subthreshold bulimia nervosa were contacted after an average follow-up period of 9 years. Results Results revealed that 72.7% (n = 32) of the participants were recovered at the time of follow-up. An investigation of prognostic variables showed that good outcome was associated with a shorter duration of illness, which was defined as the time between onset of symptoms and first treatment intervention. If participants were initially treated within the first few years of the illness, the probability of recovery was above 80%. However, if they were initially treated 15 years or more after the onset of the illness, the probability of recovery fell below 20%. Discussion This finding suggests that early identification of bulimia nervosa may be a very important factor in preventing a chronic eating disorder. © 2000 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 27: 428–434, 2000.
Nonlinear-optical photothermal modification of collagen

We report on a novel mechanism of tissue modification. We demonstrate that if the train of ultrashort laser pulses has sufficient average power, multiphoton absorption can result in a significant heating of a localized area of a collagen-rich tissue leading to its photothermal modification. We propose a simple model describing the effect of local heating and derive a simple way of estimating the contribution of this mechanism for different parameters of incident radiation. Microscopic confocal imaging studies complement the spectroscopic studies to ensure the minimal destruction of surrounding areas of a tissue.
Alteration in both insulin release and its hypoglycemic effects in atopic bronchial asthma

In 31 patients with atopic bronchial asthma in clinical remission and in 21 healthy sex- and age-matched subjects, the responses to intravenous tolbutamide (1.0 gm) and insulin (0.1 U/kg) were studied over a period of 2 hr. In response to tolbutamide, asthmatics released significantly less insulin, but their blood glucose levels did not differ from those of controls. Asthmatics also reacted to tolbutamide-induced hypoglycemia with significantly greater output of growth hormone to blood. Following intravenous injection of insulin, the recovery of the blood glucose concentrations was significantly reduced in asthmatic patients. More economical use of insulin and increased responsiveness to its hypoglycemic action, together with the well-known reduction in hypoglycemic effects of catecholamines in bronchial asthma, might explain why asthmatics rarely develop diabetes mellitus.
Porosity and crack initiation during low cycle fatigue

Abstract The influence of porosity on crack initiation during low cycle fatigue has been examined by both experimental observations and theoretical modeling. Experimental data based on powder-processed titanium indicate a porosity-induced enhancement of crack initiation which contributes to significant reductions in low cycle fatigue life. All the levels of porosity examined, which range from 0.4 to 6 vol.%, cause an order-of-magnitude or greater decrease in the number of cycles to initiate a 15 μm crack. Assuming porosity located at a surface can be modeled as a through-thickness hole under plane stress conditions, adapting a Coffin-Manson law as a failure criterion and applying cumulative damage theory, a theoretical analysis has been developed for predicting the number of cycles for microcrack initiation in the presence of porosity. The predictions, which rely on pore shapes and the low cycle fatigue response of the fully dense matrix, accurately predict the number of cycles necessary to initiate a 15 μm crack adjacent to both isolated and interconnected pores during low cycle fatigue.
Evaluating the role of online data availability: The case of economic and institutional transparency in sixteen Latin American nations

We adopt the principal-agent framework and the asymmetry of information between the principal and the agent in order to approach two subjects of much attention and expectations: i) the formal online release of governmental data as a means of furnishing information, and ii) its contribution to government economic and institutional transparency. We identify important characteristics of transparency as instruments to lessen the information asymmetry in relevant areas (or subjects) where corruption and inefficiency are generally present in political institutions. We focus on the central governments of sixteen Latin American nations. We determine that, while there exists a moderate release of data relevant to areas where corruption generally takes place, its contribution to providing meaningful information to the citizenry is minimal. Our findings also show the importance of policy that explicitly mandates that data corresponding to specific areas where corruption and inefficiency take place be shared over the...
The effect of keypad angle of a table keyphone on keying performance.

Abstract Two keypad angle experiments, one numeral legibility experiment and one button-tapping rate experiment are described. The effects of keypad angle on keyphone positioning, keying time, keying errors and on a keying performance measure are discussed. A geometrical method for estimating optimum keypad angle is introduced. It is concluded that the optimum angle for a keypad depends on its height above the desk surface. The geometrical method can be used to estimate the best anglein the absence of experimental evidence. For the experimental keyphone (keypad height about 90 mm) the best keypad angle was found to be about 25° to the horizontal, but the effect of a 10° deviation either way from this angle was quite small.
Abstract LB-311: Whole-exome sequencing of polycythemia vera revealed novel driver genes and somatic mutation shared by T cells and granulocytes

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Polycythemia vera (PV) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by augmented myelopoiesis leading to increased red cell mass with frequent excessive proliferation of other myeloid lineages. Over 95% of PV patients harbor JAK2V617F mutation, which confers proliferative advantage to affected myeloid progenitors. JAK2V617F, which is thought to be necessary but not sufficient for the disease, is often associated with acquired uniparental disomy on chromosome 9p (9pUPD). To better understand the underlying molecular basis of PV, we performed whole-exome sequencing and DNA copy-number analysis of 31 JAK2V617F-positive patients and further investigated the evolution of somatic mutations using longitudinal samples. In addition to JAK2 V617F and 9pUPD, we identified recurrent somatic mutation in an additional 5 genes including ASXL1, TET2, DNMT3A, and SF3B1 and recurrent DNA copy-number alterations at 1q and 18p. Forty-two percent of patients had at least one somatic mutation in an epigenetic modifier gene, and 23% of patients harbored mutation in RTK/RAS, RNA processing pathways, tumor suppressors and protein kinases. In 4 of 31 cases, variant allele abundance suggested somatic mutations of ASXL1, DNMT3A and SF3B1 may have preceded JAK2V617F. Interestingly, in 7 PV patients mutations also present in COSMIC were shared between the patients’ T-cell controls and granulocytes: 4 NF1, 2 ASXL1, and one each in TET2, IDH2, and DNMT3A, suggesting these genes mutated early in hematopoietic development. Absence of JAK2V617F in these T-cells ruled out cross-contamination of cell lineages. In an additional 4 cases, a minor JAK2V617F subclone acquired new mutations in DNMT3A, SF3B1, SMARCA2, and TET2 during PV progression. In summary, seventy percent of patients had mutation of at least one gene important to development of myeloid neoplasms, other than JAK2V617F. Our data reveal that these mutations, in particular NF1, may have arisen in some cases early in hematopoiesis but also in some patients during progression after diagnosis. These results suggest that the order of mutation is not as important as the total mutational burden in the development of PV. Citation Format: David A. Wheeler, Linghua Wang, Sabina Swierczek, Kimberly Hickman, Jennifer A. Drummond, Donna Muzny, Richard A. Gibbs, Joseph Prchal. Whole-exome sequencing of polycythemia vera revealed novel driver genes and somatic mutation shared by T cells and granulocytes. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-311. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-LB-311
Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia in Patients With Prader-Willi Syndrome

In this investigation, we sought to further test the hypothesis that parasympathetic deficiency exists among persons with Prader-Willi syndrome, by examining respiratory sinus arrhythmia. The study sample comprised two groups of patients: 14 subjects with Prader-Willi syndrome and 14 age- and sex-matched controls. Each subject's electrocardiogram was recorded in a quiet room and digitized by a personal computer during five 1-minute periods. RR intervals within each 1-minute period were converted to heart rate in 120 successive 0.5-second intervals. The resultant heart rate time series was converted to its underlying frequency composition by a fast Fourier transform and averaged across minutes. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia was defined as the variability in the time series over a frequency range (0.096 to 0.48 Hz) corresponding to a range of respiratory rates from six to 30 breaths/minute. Analysis revealed significantly less variability in the heart rates of subjects with Prader-Willi syndrome relative to age- and sex-matched controls (group x frequency bin: F = 2.26, P < .05). An analysis of covariance adjusting for body mass index differences between the groups produced identical results. These findings support the existence of a parasympathetic deficiency among subjects with Prader-Willi syndrome independent of their body mass. This is likely due to dysregulation of the central autonomic network.
Methods And Results Of Dynamic Range Testing Of Diagnostic Ultrasound Instrumentation

The technological advance of gray scale imaging has been a major factor in the rapid growth of the clinical application of diagnostic ultrasound. Gray scale imaging implies that the displayed brightness of a target in the ultrasound image is a function of the amplitude of its echo. Several techniques have been investigated for the measurement of the dynamic range of gray scale ultrasound scanners. The measurement methods include (1) an electronic pulse burst generator which emits a sequence of pulses decaying at a selectable rate of 0, 1.25 or 2.5 dB/cm, (2) a polypropanol wedge designed to attenuate acoustic echoes over a range of 0 to 60 dB, (3) a series of stainless steel reflectors varying in angle from 0 to 10° so that returning echoes vary over a 40 dB range. All three instruments are easy to use. However, the wedge and variable angle devices must be calibrated for use with individual transducers. The electronic test device excludes the transducer when testing system dynamic range. Therefore, the pulse burst generator seems to be the most suitable for clinical or survey applications at this time.
The Public Relevance of International Security Research in an Era of Globalism

International relations specialists have frequently questioned whether their academic research and teaching has any impact on the “real world.” The record of success is generally believed to be a spotty one. While there is no denying that academics have informed aspects of policymaking, the concern remains that the great bulk of international studies research is too abstract, specialized, or linguistically incestuous to reach the light of day in policy circles. We argue that the relationship between the pursuit of peace and security and the study of it is more complex than is captured by the classic policy–research divide. The argument rests on two observations: First, to assess the public impact of peace and security studies, one must focus on how practices within a variety of institutional contexts, not just state policies, are transformed. Second, it is not scholarship per se that has a measurable public impact, but the interplay of research, practical innovation, and advocacy. We derive these observations from a review of the work of Social Science Research Council–MacArthur Program fellows over the fifteen-year life of that program.
The Relationship Between Level of Training, Implicit Bias, and Multicultural Competency Among Counselor Trainees

The assessment of attitudes toward diversity among counselor trainees has relied on self-report measures. Implicit measures might offer a valuable addition to self-report because they assess biased attitudes indirectly, do not rely on conscious introspection, and often demonstrate bias that contradicts selfreported attitudes. A sample (N 105) of counselor trainees was assessed with measures of implicit bias toward African Americans and lesbians and gay men and a measure of self-reported multicultural competency. Implicit bias was present among counselor trainees despite high self-reported multicultural competency. In addition, self-reported multicultural competency varied by training level, but implicit bias did not. The results suggest that implicit bias can add to the understanding, assessment, and training of multicultural counselor competency.