cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phosphorylation of the N-Formyl Peptide Receptor Is Required for Receptor Internalization but Not Chemotaxis

Abstract The human N-formyl peptide receptor (FPR) is a member of the family of leukocyte, G protein-coupled, chemoattractant receptors. To determine the role(s) of receptor phosphorylation in FPR processing and formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine (fMLF)-mediated chemotaxis, we utilized U937 cells expressing the recombinant wild type receptor and a mutant form of the FPR. This mutant, which lacks all of the serine and threonine residues in the C terminus of the receptor, ΔST, has recently been shown to produce a receptor capable of fMLF binding and G protein activation but was demonstrated not to undergo fMLF-dependent phosphorylation or desensitization of the calcium mobilization response upon repeated exposure to agonist (Prossnitz, E. R. (1997) J. Biol. Chem. 272, 15213–15219). In this report, we examined the role of receptor phosphorylation in FPR internalization and leukocyte chemotaxis. Whereas the wild type receptor was rapidly internalized upon stimulation, the phosphorylation-deficient mutant was not, remaining entirely on the cell surface. In addition, contrary to the hypothesis that receptor processing and recycling are required for chemotaxis, we found no defect in the ability of the mutant FPR to migrate up a concentration gradient of fMLF. These results indicate that phosphorylation of the FPR is a necessary step in receptor internalization but that receptor phosphorylation, desensitization, and internalization are not required for chemotaxis.
Discovery of micromolar PDE IV inhibitors that exhibit much reduced affinity for the [3H]rolipram binding site: 3-norbornyloxy-4-methoxyphenylmethylene oxindoles

Abstract The synthesis and the in vitro properties of a novel series of potent and selective phosphodiesterase type IV (PDE IV) inhibitors is described. Despite bearing structural similarity to rolipram, several of these compounds have much reduced affinity for the [3H]rolipram binding site.
Clay/Sol−Gel-Modified Electrodes for the Selective Electrochemical Monitoring of 2,4-Dichlorophenol

A glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and a single-use pencil graphite electrode (PGE) modified through the incorporation of a mixed-ion, amphiphilic, fluorohectorite heterostructure, wherein the galleries are regularly interstratified by hydrophilic inorganic ions (Na+) and lipophilic onium ions, are shown to be efficient electrochemical sensors for the specific determination of the pollutant 2,4-dicholorophenol (2,4-DCP) when incorporated at the 2.5% (v/v) level into a sol−gel (triethoxysilane) matrix on the electrode surface. The voltammetric detection of 2,4-DCP resulted in low detection limits of 26.66 nM and 19.32 nM at the 2.5% (v/v) clay/sol−gel-modified GCE and PGE, respectively, based on a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. The reproducible data obtained from the single-use clay/sol−gel-modified PGE show promise for the microfabrication of a remote sensor specific for 2,4-DCP detection.
Inpatient group psychotherapy: cohesion facilitates separation

Inpatient group psychotherapy is affected by the time-limited nature of hospitalization. Although the brevity of treatment has been viewed by some as detrimental to patient improvement, other aspects of the treatment setting promote cohesion and allow group members to confront the threatening fears of separation and loss which likely prompted hospitalization. Separation issues are accentuated by the time parameters and the continual terminations of patients and staff. Unplanned terminations are seen as disruptive to the group process.
The effects of Fusarium thapsinum, Curvularia lunata and their combination on sorghum germination and seed mycoflora.

Abstract Grain mold, caused by several species of fungi, reduces grain yield and quality. This study examined the effect of the two most common grain mold fungi, Fusarium thapsinum and Curvularia lunata, inoculated singly and together on germination and seed mycoflora. Germination rates for the different cultivars have been reported in details previously. C. lunata was the most frequently isolated fungal species followed by F. thapsinum and F. semitectum. Non-inoculated control samples had Alternaria spp. and F. semitectum as the most frequently recovered fungal species followed by C. lunata. There were highly significant negative correlations between germination and C. lunata (r = - 0.44 and P < 0.01) in 2000 and between germination and F. thapsinum (r = −0.52 and P < 0.01) in 2001. Significant negative correlations between F. semitectum andF. thapsinum, and highly significant negative correlations between F. thapsinum and C. lunata were observed. Data from this study indicate that the fungal species pre...
Matrix physical structure effect on the electro-optic characteristics of thiol–ene based H-PDLC films

Abstract The physical and mechanical properties of several thiol–ene based polymers and their mixtures with the liquid crystal, E7, were characterized to probe their relationship with the liquid crystal film electro-optic performance properties. Kinetic data suggests that high conversion is achieved for each thiol–ene combination. Pre-polymerization phase diagrams indicate that each thiol–ene/E7 mixture phase separates well below room temperature, and thus prior to polymerization at room temperature all are in a single phase. Holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystals (HPDLC) were fabricated for several thiol–ene and E7 mixtures, and electro-optical parameters characterized to probe the relationship between the thiol–ene network properties and the electro-optic performance of the HPDLCs. The photocured matrices exhibited glass transitions and tan δ peak maxima that ranged from temperatures below 0 °C to well above room temperature. There is a clear correlation between the physical nature of the matrix and the electro-optic switching parameters with H-PDLC films fabricated from trithiol-pentaerythritol triallylether, all of which exhibit glass transition temperatures below 0 °C, having the fastest switching times and lowest switching voltages at room temperature. Also, in each case higher liquid crystalline concentration resulted in lower switching voltages.
An Iron-bearing Nepheloid Layer near Key West, Florida

VERY little is known about the suspended matter contributing to those turbid zones in the sea which occur well above the bottom. Recently, however, Ewing and Thorndike1 reported a layer containing 2.5 mg/l. of lutite at 4,030 m in the Sargasso Sea 160 m above bottom. They did not indicate any further characterization of their material.
Preliminary Psychometric Evidence for Distinct Affective and Cognitive Mechanisms Mediating Contamination Aversion

Contamination aversion is implicated in a range of psychological disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder and health anxiety. Despite broad implications, the core mechanisms mediating contamination aversion are mixed and have not clearly been elucidated. The present studies are psychometric investigations of the components of contamination aversion and tests of the different mechanisms that mediate the severity of these components. In Study 1, items from existing measures of contamination aversion were compiled into one measure and administered to a large sample of nonclinical participants (N = 1,286). Exploratory factor analyses demonstrated a two-factor structure, with one factor comprised of items related to intrinsically (direct) contaminated objects and the other factor comprised of items related to extrinsically (indirect) contaminated objects. In Study 2, items were added and confirmatory factor analyses supported a two-factor model in another large nonclinical sample (N = 612). In Study 3 (N = 471), structural modeling demonstrated distinct relations between the two factors and affective and cognitive constructs. Affective constructs related more to aversions toward more directly contaminated objects and situations while cognitive constructs related more to aversions toward more indirectly contaminated objects and situations. The present studies help clarify and articulate the unique roles of cognition and affect in specific contamination aversions, and, as such, have important implications for conceptual modeling of contamination-related psychopathology.
A prospective study of maternal prenatal weight and offspring cardiometabolic health in midchildhood.

Abstract Purpose To examine the relations of maternal prepregnancy body mass index (ppBMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) with offspring cardiometabolic health. Design We studied 1090 mother–child pairs in Project Viva, a Boston-area prebirth cohort. We measured overall (dual x-ray absorptiometry total fat; body mass index z-score) and central adiposity (dual x-ray absorptiometry trunk fat), and systolic blood pressure in offspring at 6 to 10 years. Fasting bloods ( n = 687) were assayed for insulin and glucose (for calculation of homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance), triglycerides, leptin, adiponectin, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, and interleukin 6. Using multivariable linear regression, we examined differences in offspring outcomes per 1 SD maternal ppBMI and GWG. Results After adjustment for confounders, each 5 kg/m 2 higher ppBMI corresponded with 0.92 kg (95% confidence interval, 0.70–1.14) higher total fat, 0.27 BMI z-score (0.21–0.32), and 0.39 kg (0.29–0.49) trunk fat. ppBMI was also positively associated with homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, leptin, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin 6, and systolic blood pressure; and lower adiponectin. Each 5 kg of GWG predicted greater adiposity (0.33 kg [0.11–0.54] total fat; 0.14 kg [0.04–0.23] trunk fat) and higher leptin (6% [0%–13%]) in offspring after accounting for confounders and ppBMI. Conclusions Children born to heavier mothers have more overall and central fat and greater cardiometabolic risk. Offspring of women with higher GWG had greater adiposity and higher leptin.
Preventing Ash Agglomeration during Gasification of High-Sodium Lignite

Various additives were evaluated to assess their ability to prevent ash agglomeration during the gasification of high-sodium lignite. Additives that showed promise in simple muffle furnace tests included meta-kaolin, vermiculite, two types of silica fume, and one type of bauxite. Additives that were tested and rejected included dolomite, calcite, sand flour, kaolinite, fine kaolin, and calcined bauxite. Based on the muffle furnace test results, the meta-kaolin was selected for a follow-on demonstration in a pilot-scale coal gasifier. Pilot-scale testing showed that the addition of coarse (minus 14-mesh, 920-μm mean size) meta-kaolin at a feed rate roughly equivalent to the ash content of the lignite (∼10 wt %) successfully prevented agglomeration and deposition problems during gasification of high-sodium lignite at a maximum operating temperature of 927 °C (1700 °F).
Biomphalaria glabrata amoebocytes: effect of Schistosoma mansoni infection on in vitro phagocytosis.

Abstract The rate of phagocytosis by amoebocytes obtained from hemolymph of the pulmonate Biomphalaria glabrata infected with the trematode Schistosoma mansoni for 24 hr and 2, 4, and 6 weeks has been determined using the monolayer assay system. Amoebocyte preparations from snails infected for 4 and 6 weeks showed a gradual decrease in the phagocytic rates compared to those from uninfected controls. Snails harboring the parasite for 4 and 6 weeks also showed a significant increase in the number of amoebocytes in the hemolymph. No significant changes were detected in the rate of phagocytosis or number of amoebocytes in snails infected for 2 weeks or less. Alterations in the morphology and behavior of amoebocytes from infected snails were also noted.
Effects of prolactin on expression of Fos-related antigens in tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive neurons in subdivisions of the arcuate nucleus

Dual immunohistochemistry was employed to determine the effects of prolactin on expression of Fos and its related antigens (FRA) in tuberoinfundibular dopamine (TIDA) neurons located in the dorsomedial (DM) and ventrolateral (VL) subdivisions of the arcuate nucleus (ARC) in the male rat. Systemic administration of the DA receptor antagonist haloperidol caused a sustained (up to 12 h) increase in plasma prolactin concentrations that was accompanied by a transient increase (at 3 h) in the percentage of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-immunoreactive (IR) neurons containing FRA-IR nuclei in the DM-ARC. In contrast, haloperidol caused a prolonged (1.5 to 12 h) decrease in the percentage of TH-IR neurons with FRA-IR nuclei in the VL-ARC. Haloperidol had no effect, however, on the overall number of TH-IR neurons in either of these regions. Co-administration of prolactin antisera (PRL-AB) blocked haloperidol-induced increases in both plasma prolactin concentrations and the percentage of TH-IR neurons expressing FRA in the DM-ARC, but had no effect on haloperidol-induced inhibition of FRA expression in TH-IR neurons in the VL-ARC. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of prolactin also increased the percentage of TH-IR neurons containing FRA-IR nuclei in the DM-ARC, but this effect was of longer duration (up to 6 h) than that of haloperidol in all but the most caudal portion of the DM-ARC. In the VL-ARC, prolactin caused a transient increase (at 1.5 h) in the percentage of TH-IR containing FRA-IR nuclei. These results demonstrate that prolactin regulates immediate early gene expression in TIDA neurons in male rats, and reveal that there are temporal differences in the responsiveness of discrete subpopulations of these neurons to prolactin. Prolactin causes a short-lived increase in FRA expression in TIDA neurons in the VL-ARC which is followed by a more prolonged activation of FRA expression in TIDA neurons in the DM-ARC.
Androgen binding to cytosol prepared from epididymides of sexually mature castrated rabbits: evidence for a cytoplasmic receptor.

Abstract The presence of androgen-binding activity in cytosol prepared from the major anatomical segments (caput, corpus, and cauda) of the epididymis of castrated sexually mature rabbits has been demonstrated. A portion of this binding activity is likely to be the epididymal androgen receptor. When epididymal cytosol from adult castrated rabbits is analyzed on low-ionic strength (0.01 M KC1) sucrose gradients, two peaks of macromolecular binding could be detected, one ∼- 4.6S and one ∼- 8S. On gradients containing 1.0 M KC1, only one sedimenting form ∼- 4.6S could be demonstrated, suggesting that the 8S component is composed of aggregates. If cytosol was preincubated with labeled androgen, followed by an incubation with unlabeled androgen, and subsequently analyzed for binding on low-ionic strength gradients, only the ∼- 8S peak could be detected, indicating that most of the binding in the ∼- 4.6S region was rapidly dissociable. This suggests that binding in this region was to moieties other than receptor. Since androgen binding proteins (ABP) of testicular origin would have been cleared from the epididymis at the timepoints that we concentrated on for most of these studies, the 4.6S binding probably represents the association of androgen with plasma testosterone binding globulin (TeBG). The binding of androgen to the receptor can be inhibited by cyproterone, while this antiandrogen does not inhibit binding to either ABP or TeBG at the concentration used.
Magnetic techniques applied to the study of rock varnish

The authors report the successful application of magnetic techniques to the study of rock varnish, a surficial coating that forms on rocks in arid environments. Using thin wafers of varnished and unvarnished greywacke sandstone, they have detected a stable remanent magnetization that can be unambiguously attributed to the rock varnish. They have also measured several rock magnetic properties of the rock varnish and have shown that the primary magnetic carrier is either magnetite or maghemite. These results demonstrate the feasibility of applying magnetic techniques to the study of geomorphic surfaces. Subsequent rock magnetic and paleomagnetic studies of rock varnish should provide new information about the geochemical processes involved in the formation of rock varnish and about the validity of a new chronological technique known as rock varnish dating.
The Development of the Network Examination for Student Socialization (NEXSS) Observational Instrument

The complexity of learning has plagued the educational establishment for decades. Recently, ideas of complexity theory and complex adaptive systems have made headway in how we think of institutions of learning. This study developed and tested an instrument for the modeling of underlying social structures, as an element of complexity, within the physical education learning environment. Currently, there are no instruments capable of producing valid and reliable models of underlying student social networks in physical education classes. This study sought to develop and test one of the first instruments for the explicit purpose of this modeling. The Network Examination for Student Socialization was developed as a product of this effort. Testing demonstrated the Network Examination for Student Socialization is both a reliable and valid instrument for modeling underlying student social structures within physical education classes. It is hoped that in years to come, the Network Examination for Student Socializat...
Sensitivity of proton NMR relaxation times in a HTPB based polyurethane elastomer to thermo-oxidative aging

Solid-state {sup 1}H NMR relaxometry studies were conducted on a hydroxy-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) based polyurethane elastomer thermo-oxidatively aged at 80 C. The {sup 1}H T{sub 1}, T{sub 2}, and T{sub 1{rho}} relaxation times of samples thermally aged for various periods of time were determined as a function of NMR measurement temperature. The response of each measurement was calculated from a best-fit linear function of the relaxation time vs. aging time. It was found that the T{sub 2,H} and T{sub 1{rho},H} relaxation times exhibited the largest response to thermal degradation, whereas T{sub 1,H} showed minimal change. All of the NMR relaxation measurements on solid samples showed significantly less sensitivity to thermal aging than the T{sub 2,H} relaxation times of solvent-swollen samples.
■ REVIEW : The Presenilins

Presenilin-1 and presenilin-2 are highly homologous genes located on chromosomes 14 and 1, respectively, that have recently been linked to some cases of early-onset autosomal dominant inherited forms of Alzhei mer's disease (AD). Presenilins are integral membrane proteins localized in the endoplasmic reticulum of neurons throughout the nervous system. Studies of presenilin-1 knockout mice, and of invertebrate homo logues of presenilins and their interacting proteins, suggest major roles for presenilins in normal develop ment. Presenilin-1 mutant knockin mice do not exhibit developmental abnormalities, which indicates that the pathogenic mechanism of presenilin mutations involves gain of an adverse property of the mutant protein. Expression of presenilin mutations in cultured neurons and transgenic mice results in increased sensitivity to apoptosis induced by trophic factor withdrawal and exposure to oxidative and metabolic insults, and also alters gene expression. The pathogenic mechanism of presenilin mu...
Test Reviewing at the Buros Center for Testing

The test review process used by the Buros Center for Testing is described as a series of 11 steps: (1) identifying tests to be reviewed, (2) obtaining tests and preparing test descriptions, (3) determining whether tests meet review criteria, (4) identifying appropriate reviewers, (5) selecting reviewers, (6) sending instructions and materials to reviewers, (7) checking reviews for factual accuracy, (8) editing content of reviews, (9) copyediting and updating reviews, (10) obtaining reviewer approval, and (11) seeking comments from publishers. Special considerations associated with each step are discussed. Preliminary efforts to extend the international relevance of Buros are reflected by a new product currently in development, Pruebas Publicadas en Espanol (“Tests in Print in Spanish”).
Creating clinical efficacy by the Delphi Process

Abstract Practitioners of alternative medicine are under preasure to document their claims of efficacy. However, they are usually unable to carry out randomized controlled trials or other rigorous experimental procedures. Some, however, are employing the Delphi Process. In the case study reported here, a Delphi panel produced what amounts to a set of standards that any system of alternative medicine must include if practitioners are to work together with medical doctors in providing primary health care. This can be expected to benefit alternative providers so trained, in so far as it expands their job description.
Functional Expansion of the tRNA World under Stress

In this issue of Molecular Cell, Ivanov et al. (2011) provide mechanistic insight into tRNA fragment-based translational regulation to expand our understanding of the nondecoding roles of tRNA.
Efficacy of mechanical fuel treatments for reducing wildfire hazard

ARTICLE I NFO Mechanical fuel treatments are increasingly being used for wildfire hazard reduction in the western U.S. However, the efficacy of these treatments for reducing wildfire hazard at a landscape scale is difficult to quantify, especially when including growth following treatment. A set of uneven- and even-aged treatments designed to reduce fire hazard were simulated on 0.8 million hectares of timberland in Colorado. Wildfire hazard ratings using torching and crowning indices were developed; stands were selected for treatment; treatment was simulated and hazard ratings were reassessed. The results show that the even-aged treatments initially place more area within our hazard thresholds than do the uneven-aged treatments and that the uneven-aged treatment that removes more small stems reduces risk more than the treatment removing more large stems. The treatment costs follow the same pattern, with the even-aged treatments costing least. However, potential revenues are, as expected, higher for the uneven-aged large treatment. The results also show that both higher costs and higher revenues accrue to the treatments applied to the higher risk stands. Treatments also have differing risk reductions depending on the initial risk category. Even without considering growth or revenues, the outcomes of a state-level treatment program are difficult to estimate. This implies that at a minimum, forest-level, if not state-level analyses including overall measures of risk reduction, costs, revenues and long-term effects need to be conducted in concert with setting priorities for treating timberlands. Published by Elsevier B.V.
Diffuse interface modeling of two-phase flows based on averaging: mass and momentum equations

A diffuse interface model is derived for the direct simulation of two-phase flows with surface tension, phase-change, and density and viscosity differences between the phases. The derivation starts from the balance equations for a sharp interface and uses an ensemble averaging procedure on an atomic scale to obtain a diffuse interface version of the equations. As opposed to thermodynamically derived models, the two phases are assumed to coexist inside the diffuse interface with different properties, velocities, and pressures. Separate conservation equations are solved for each phase. The phase interactions are modeled explicitly through the inclusion of interfacial forces in the momentum equations for each phase. Based on a superposition of microscopic (atomic-scale) and macroscopic interface morphologies, an expression for the interfacial momentum source due to surface tension is introduced that is equivalent to the capillary stress term encountered in thermodynamically derived models. Also, a constitutive relation for the average viscous stresses of each phase inside the diffuse interface is presented. The model is tested for simple one-dimensional flows tangential and normal to a diffuse interface, and the results are compared to those obtained from a thermodynamically derived model.
Black Raspberry-Derived Anthocyanins Demethylate Tumor Suppressor Genes Through the Inhibition of DNMT1 and DNMT3B in Colon Cancer Cells

We previously reported that oral administration of black raspberry powder decreased promoter methylation of tumor suppressor genes in tumors from patients with colorectal cancer. The anthocyanins (ACs) in black raspberries are responsible, at least in part, for their cancer-inhibitory effects. In the present study, we asked if ACs are responsible for the demethylation effects observed in colorectal cancers. Three days of treatment of ACs at 0.5, 5, and 25 μg/ml suppressed activity and protein expression of DNMT1 and DNMT3B in HCT116, Caco2 and SW480 cells. Promoters of CDKN2A, and SFRP2, SFRP5, and WIF1, upstream of Wnt pathway, were demethylated by ACs. mRNA expression of some of these genes was increased. mRNA expression of β-catenin and c-Myc, downstream of Wnt pathway, and cell proliferation were decreased; apoptosis was increased. ACs were taken up into HCT116 cells and were differentially localized with DNMT1 and DNMT3B in the same cells visualized using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Although it was reported that DNMT3B is regulated by c-Myc in mouse lymphoma, DNMT3B did not bind with c-Myc in HCT116 cells. In conclusion, our results suggest that ACs are responsible, at least in part, for the demethylation effects of whole black raspberries in colorectal cancers.
Optimal unbiased reduction of global image variances in SPECT

In this work, we studied a class of reconstruction algorithms, which are specified by a complex combination coefficient, in SPECT with uniform attenuation. We studied theoretically and evaluated numerically the impact of such a complex combination coefficient on the variances in reconstructed images. Specifically, we investigated whether and to what extent a complex combination coefficient can further reduce the global image variances in SPECT as compared to a real combination coefficient. We show that the algorithm specified by an optimal complex combination coefficient can provide theoretically a lower global image variance than does the the quasi-optimal algorithm that is specified by a real combination coefficient. However, because such a reduction of global image variance is only a few percent, and because the optimal complex combination coefficient is generally unobtainable without prior knowledge of the object, it is concluded that the quasi-optimal algorithm probably should be used for image reconstruction in SPECT with uniform attenuation.
The morphology of an infarct in nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy

Abstract Objective The mechanism by which nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) causes an infarct in the optic nerve is controversial. We studied the three-dimensional anatomic configuration of a NAION infarct to better elucidate its pathophysiology. Design Case report with clinicopathologic correlation. Methods Serial sections of the optic nerve from a previously reported patient diagnosed with NAION 20 days before death were studied. Every fourth slide was stained with hematoxylin–eosin, photographed, and digitized. NIH Image 1.62 was used to reconstruct the nerve in all three dimensions, and the infarct morphology was analyzed. Main outcome measures Morphology of the reconstructed optic nerve infarct. Results The area of axonal loss within each section of the optic nerve was identified and reconstructed. The loss was in the superior part of the nerve, encircling the central retinal artery at its greatest extent. Remaining areas of the nerve appeared healthy, and, notably, the periphery of the uninvolved inferior portion of the nerve was normal. Three-dimensional analysis revealed two distinct areas of infarct at the posterior extent of the lesion which coalesced toward the center of the lesion and finally tapered as the infarct reached the optic nerve head. Sagittal reconstructions gave the appearance of a two-pronged fork posteriorly connecting to a single "handle" anteriorly. There was no obvious correlation between the configuration of the infarct and any single vascular territory. The total length of the nerve involved by the infarct was approximately 1.5 mm. Conclusions The morphology of this NAION infarct is not consistent with disease of large or small vessels and, more likely, represents a form of compartment syndrome that causes tissue ischemia.
Transcending Temptation Through Abstraction The Role of Construal Level in Self-Control

Many goals that people pursue are distal in that they cannot be attained in the here and now but rather must be achieved through action across varied social contexts over time. Self-control requires people to make decisions consistent with distal goals when tempted by more immediate rewards. Inspired by construal-level theory, we propose and review evidence that the way in which people subjectively represent, or construe, events systematically influences these decisions. We suggest that high-level construal (the use of cognitive abstraction to extract the essential and goal-relevant features common across a class of events), relative to low-level construal (the process of highlighting the incidental and idiosyncratic features that render a particular event unique), promotes self-control. We discuss implications for future research.
Optimization of covalently coupling enzymes to polymeric membranes: EPR studies of papain

In an effort to better understand bioreactor systems, papain (EC 3.4.22.2) was covalently immobilized onto vinyl alcohol/vinyl butyral copolymer (PMB) membrane by means of glutaraldehyde (GA), 1,1'-carbonyldiimidazole (CDI), or 2-fluoro-1-methylpyridinium toluene-4-sulfonate (FMP). Various kinetic and performance characteristics of the immobilized papain were evaluated. It was found that the characteristics of the membranebound papain depended on the immobilization methods. The CDI- and FMP-immobilized papain bioreactors showed better storage and thermal stability than did the GA-immobilized papain bioreactor, although the apparent Michaelis constant, Km, of the GA-immobilized papain was closer to the free enzyme than to the corresponding CDI- and FMP-immobilized enzymes. In separate experiments, a 6-carbon spacer was inserted between the membrane surface and the covalently bound enzyme. It was found that the insertion of a spacer reduced the disturbance of the enzyme systems, resulting in Km values intermediate between the free and directly bound enzymes for all three immobilization methods. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy was also used to investigate the conformational change and the active site structure of papain. It was found that the active site SH group of papain immobilized with a 6-carbon spacer had faster motion than that of directly bound enzyme, but slower motion than that of the free enzyme. With both direct-coupling and with a spacer, the SH group motion at the active site of papain by CDI and FMP immobilizations was similar, but slower than the corresponding GA immobilization. The conformational changes of the active site of papain upon immobilization with and without a spacer were in agreement with the functional properties of the enzyme. There was a good correlation between the motion of spin-labeled cysteine in the active site of papain and kinetic properties of this protease: As motion slowed, Km increased and Vmax decreased. Of the immobilization procedures used, GA immobilization with a spacer yielded kinetic and structural characteristics most similar to the free enzyme while providing increased stability and reusability relative to the latter. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The roles of task difficulty and prior videogame experience on performance and motivation in instructional videogames

Videogames are an increasingly popular instructional tool. This research investigated how various strategies for modifying task difficulty in instructional videogames impact learner performance and motivation. Further, the influence of prior videogame experience on these learning outcomes was examined, as well as the role prior experience played in determining the optimal approach for adjusting task difficulty. Participants completed a game-based training task under one of four task difficulty conditions: static, increasing, adaptive-low and adaptive-high. All participants completed an identical pre-training trial, 10 practice trials varying in difficulty level according to condition, and a final performance trial. Results demonstrate that learner performance and motivation significantly improved in all difficulty conditions. Further, prior videogame experience was found to significantly influence these learning outcomes and a three-way interaction was detected between performance, task difficulty condition, and experience. The results of this research provide information useful to instructional videogame developers and instructors utilizing videogames as instructional tools.
Theoretical Analysis of Factors Affecting the Formation and Stability of Multilayered Colloidal Dispersions

A mathematical analysis of the major factors influencing the formation and stability of colloidal dispersions containing spherical particles surrounded by multilayered polymeric interfacial membranes formed by the layer-by-layer electrostatic deposition technique is carried out. The mathematical model assumes that (i) the colloidal dispersion initially consists of a mixture of electrically charged monodisperse spherical particles and oppositely charged polymer molecules, (ii) the adsorption of polymer molecules to the particle surfaces is diffusion-limited, and (iii) the dominant particle-particle collision mechanism is Brownian motion. This approach was used to produce stability maps that highlight conditions under which bridging flocculation, multilayer formation, or depletion flocculation occurs. The stability maps are derived from calculations of the critical polymer concentrations required to (i) saturate the particle surfaces (C(Sat)), (ii) ensure that polymer adsorption is faster than particle collisions (C(Ads)), and (iii) promote depletion flocculation (C(Dep)). In addition, the influence of interfacial properties on the stability of multilayer colloidal dispersions was assessed by calculating the colloidal interactions between the coated particles (i.e., van der Waals, electrostatic, steric, and depletion). These calculations indicated that the major factors are the interfacial charge and composition rather than the interfacial thickness. This article provides useful insights into the factors affecting the formation of stable multilayer colloidal dispersions.
Syzygium snowianum (Myrtaceae) a new canopy species from the Southern Escarpment of Papua New Guinea

Syzygium snowianum is described from previously inaccessible environments in southern Papua New Guinea. The new species is closest to S. ubogoense but is easily distinguished by its taller stature and yellow flowers.
Inter- and intra-measurer error in the measurement of Reimers’ hip migration percentage

Reimers' hip migration percentage is commonly used to document the extent of subluxation of the hip in children with spasticity. In this study, two measurers, with six months paediatric orthopaedic experience, measured the migration percentage on 44 pelvic radiographs of children with cerebral palsy, aged between two and eight years. Unknown to the measurers, each radiograph was duplicated, giving 22 non-identical radiographs (44 hips) which were measured twice at time 0 and twice six weeks later. The intra-measurer, intra-sessional absolute differences between the first and second measurements ranged from 0% to 23%, with median values of 2.5% to 3.6%. The intra-sessional median absolute differences were not statistically different between the two measurers and measuring sessions (p = 0.42, Kruskal-Wallis test). The inter-sessional absolute differences for measurements made by the same measurers ranged from 0% to 18% with a median absolute difference of 1.7% to 3.2%. Overall, only 5% of the intra-measurer measurement differences, within and between sessions, were above 13%. Repeated measurements by one measurer over time must, therefore, vary by more than 13% in order to be 95% confident of a true change. The inter-measurer error was higher with median absolute differences between the two measurers' measurements of the same hip of 3.25% to 5% (0% to 26%) and a 95th upper confidence interval of 21% to 23%. Averaging the four separate measurements over the two sessions reduced the inter-measurer error to a median absolute difference of 2.8%, but did not improve the 95th upper confidence interval, which measured 22.4%. Such inter-measurer errors may be clinically unacceptable.
The Obesity Epidemic in the United States—Gender, Age, Socioeconomic, Racial/Ethnic, and Geographic Characteristics: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis

This review of the obesity epidemic provides a comprehensive description of the current situation, time trends, and disparities across gender, age, socioeconomic status, racial/ethnic groups, and geographic regions in the United States based on national data. The authors searched studies published between 1990 and 2006. Adult overweight and obesity were defined by using body mass index (weight (kg)/height (m) 2 ) cutpoints of 25 and 30, respectively; childhood ‘‘at risk for overweight’’ and overweight were defined as the 85th and 95th percentiles of body mass index. Average annual increase in and future projections for prevalence were estimated by using linear regression models. Among adults, obesity prevalence increased from 13% to 32% between the 1960s and 2004. Currently, 66% of adults are overweight or obese; 16% of children and adolescents are overweight and 34% are at risk of overweight. Minority and low-socioeconomic-status groups are disproportionately affected at all ages. Annual increases in prevalence ranged from 0.3 to 0.9 percentage points across groups. By 2015, 75% of adults will be overweight or obese, and 41% will be obese. In conclusion, obesity has increased at an alarming rate in the United States over the past three decades. The associations of obesity with gender, age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status are complex and dynamic. Related population-based programs and policies are needed.
Short-term mesh exposure after robotic sacrocolpopexy with and without concomitant hysterectomy.

OBJECTIVES The primary objective of this study was to compare the short-term rate of mesh exposure after a robotic sacrocolpopexy (RSCP) compared with those after RSCP with a concomitant hysterectomy. Secondary objectives included a comparison of mesh exposure from total hysterectomies (TH) versus supracervical hysterectomies (SCH) and determination of risk factors for mesh exposure. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of women who underwent RSCP between January 2009 and December 2011 at one academic center. The primary outcome was mesh exposure at 6 weeks postoperation. Subjects were divided into two groups: those with concomitant hysterectomy and those with RSCP alone. The hysterectomy group was subdivided into TH versus SCH. Mesh exposures and mesh revision procedures were identified using International Classification of Diseases-9 and CPT codes, respectively, and confirmed by chart review. RESULTS There were 230 eligible women who underwent RSCP during the study period and were followed up at a 6-week postoperative visit; 118 (51.7%) had RSCP only and 112 (48.7%) had a concomitant hysterectomy. Of those who underwent hysterectomy, 79 patients (70.5%) had TH and 33 (29.5%) had SCH. There were nine (3.9%) mesh exposures attributed to RSCP. The difference between the RSCP + hysterectomy group and the RSCP-only group was 2.7% versus 5.1% (P = 0.50). The 2.7% of mesh exposures in the hysterectomy group were associated with TH and none with SCH, but this difference was not significant (P = 0.55). CONCLUSIONS Although mesh exposure with RSCP is low, serious morbidity can be associated with mesh use and appropriate preoperative counseling is critical.
Psychological Abuse Perpetration in College Dating Relationships Contributions of Gender, Stress, and Adult Attachment Orientations

This study investigated whether gender, stressful problems common among college students, and adult attachment orientations (anxiety and avoidance) contributed to self-reported perpetration of psychological abuse in dating relationships among 127 college students. College men’s stress levels were the strongest predictor of perpetration of emotional abuse against their female romantic partners. Attachment avoidance among college men and women was associated with higher levels of emotional abuse perpetration when self-reported stress levels were high. Recommendations for research and practice are provided.
Electrochemically controlled hydrogen bonding. Nitrobenzenes as simple redox-dependent receptors for arylureas

Reduction of nitrobenzene derivatives in the presence of arylureas in aprotic solvents results in large positive shifts in potential of the nitrobenzene(0/)(-) cyclic voltammetry wave with little change in wave shape. This behavior is indicative of reversible hydrogen bonding between nitrobenzene radical anions and arylureas. Computer fitting of the cyclic voltammetry of 4-nitroaniline, NA, plus 1,3-diphenylurea in DMF shows essentially no binding between urea and NA in the oxidized state (K(ox) < 1 M(-)(1)), but very strong binding in the reduced state (K(red) = 8 x 10(4) M(-)(1)), along with very rapid rates of hydrogen bond formation (k(f)'s approximately 10(8)-10(10) M(-)(1) s(-)(1)), making this system a fast on/off redox switch.
Age, Expertise, Structural Similarity, and Time-Sharing Efficiency:

Interactive effects of age, expertise, and structural similarity on time-sharing efficiency were examined. Half of 90 subjects who ranged from age 20 to 80 years were nonpilots. The other half were pilots who were considered to have expertise in time-sharing. Five dual tasks were selected to represent various cognitive aspects of flight performance and to represent various degrees of structural similarity defined by Wickens' multiple resource model. Several main findings were of note. One, time-sharing efficiency increased as structural similarity decreased. Two, time-sharing efficiency decreased with increased age. Three, pilots had higher level of time-sharing efficiency than nonpilots. Four, expertise in time-sharing appeared to be able to moderate some of the deleterious age effects. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings were considered.
Cell Contact–Dependent Immunosuppression by Cd4+Cd25+Regulatory T Cells Is Mediated by Cell Surface–Bound Transforming Growth Factor β

CD4+CD25+ T cells have been identified as a population of immunoregulatory T cells, which mediate suppression of CD4+CD25− T cells by cell–cell contact and not secretion of suppressor cytokines. In this study, we demonstrated that CD4+CD25+ T cells do produce high levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and interleukin (IL)-10 compared with CD4+CD25− T cells when stimulated by plate-bound anti-CD3 and soluble anti-CD28 and/or IL-2, and secretion of TGF-β1 (but not other cytokines), is further enhanced by costimulation via cytotoxic T lymphocyte–associated antigen (CTLA)-4. As in prior studies, we found that CD4+CD25+ T cells suppress proliferation of CD4+CD25− T cells; however, we observed here that such suppression is abolished by the presence of anti–TGF-β. In addition, we found that CD4+CD25+ T cells suppress B cell immunoglobulin production and that anti–TGF-β again abolishes such suppression. Finally, we found that stimulated CD4+CD25+ T cells but not CD4+CD25− T cells express high and persistent levels of TGF-β1 on the cell surface. This, plus the fact that we could find no evidence that a soluble factor mediates suppression, strongly suggests that CD4+CD25+ T cells exert immunosuppression by a cell–cell interaction involving cell surface TGF-β1.
Preventive health care in six countries: Models for reform?

International systems are frequently offered as models for health care reform. This study, focusing on preventive services for children and pregnant women in six industrialized countries, finds that a broad range of preventive services can be provided through health care systems with divergent financing and cost containment, utilizing multiple entry points into the health care system, and employing targeted programs for high-risk patients. Despite variability in form and financing, health outcomes are not compromised, suggesting that health care reformers in this country need not be restricted to any single model to strengthen preventive health care for children and pregnant women.
Elephant damage, not fire or rainfall, explains mortality of overstorey trees in Serengeti

Summary Generalizations about the drivers of tree demography in tropical savannas continue to prove difficult because of the complex and dynamic interactions involved, and because multi-year data sets spanning meaningful gradients in potential drivers are lacking. Overstorey trees play disproportionate roles in the long-term dynamics and functioning of savanna ecosystems. Understanding demographic patterns in these trees is complicated by their resprouting ability after being top-killed and few studies have attempted to separate top-kill from true mortality events. We examined the interactive effects of fire frequency, mean annual precipitation and elephant herbivory on overstorey (>2 m) tree mortality between 2009 and 2014 across 32 permanent vegetation plots in the Serengeti Ecosystem, Tanzania. Mean tree mortality over the study period was 0.28 ± 0.02 (0.07 year−1). Among trees that were top-killed (19.1% of all individuals), 31.2% resprouted. Mortality was driven largely by elephant herbivory, though mortality rates varied considerably across space and tree species. Fire frequency and mean annual rainfall were weak predictors of tree mortality. Over the 5 year period, chronic elephant herbivory (i.e. repeated through time) was a stronger predictor of tree mortality than maximum elephant herbivory, suggesting that repeated, low-intensity damage from elephants was more important to mortality than acute, but infrequent, damage. Elephants disproportionately damaged certain tree species relative to their availability on the landscape, and the tolerance to damage differed by species as well. Acacia senegal was strongly selected and appeared to have low tolerance to damage when it occurred, resulting in a mortality rate of 0.736 ± 0.052 (0.234 year−1) over the study period. Top-killing and resprouting rates varied across species, with Acacias generally having low resprout rates. Synthesis. Our study highlights the considerable role that chronic herbivory plays in structuring savanna tree populations, irrespective of prevailing fire and rainfall conditions, and provides important vegetative context to the dramatic recent declines and (in the case of Serengeti) increases in savanna elephant densities in sub-Saharan Africa.
American General Jurisdiction Trial Courts: New Visions, New Guidelines

Today, American trial courts are trying less and managing more private civil cases. They are also losing many private claims to other dispute resolvers. The traditional role of the trial judge as a neutral, detached, and passive adjudicator for private civil cases has given way to the trial judge who is a more active case manager, a more aggressive settlement facilitator, and an appellate-type reviewer of case decisions first made elsewhere. Unfortunately, contemporary written civil procedure laws do not reflect this new reality, increasingly reflecting only legend. New general visions of contemporary trial court decision making would help civil procedure lawmakers better formulate written procedural law guidelines for trial courts. Unfortunately, the chance for such a new perspective was not pursued in the recent proposed revisions to the ABA Model Code of Judicial Conduct, scheduled for ABA consideration in February, 2007. In particular, there is a need now for new written laws on trial court settlements as well as on trial court oversight of earlier private arbitrations and administrative agency adjudications.