cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vaccination practices in veterinary medicine: Standardization versus tailored to needs?

Significant achievements have been made during the nineteenth century to improve animal health and welfare through vaccination. Vaccination standards and practices will change significantly in the next century. Vaccination programs need to be tailored to each livestock operation or individual animal in accordance with manufacturers' instructions, government regulations, scientific standards, professional organization guidelines, and veterinarian recommendations. Vaccination should always be considered in a population context. A better use of vaccine will require a different approach and a significant investment in research. Finally, all the partners involved in animal health should consider a close collaboration to meet future animal and public health challenges.
A four-compartment model for Ca2+ dynamics: an interpretation of Ca2+ decay after repetitive firing of intact nerve terminals.

In the presynaptic nerve terminals of the bullfrog sympathetic ganglia, repetitive nerve firing evokes [Ca2+] transients that decay monotonically. An algorithm based on an eigenfunction expansion method was used for fitting these [Ca2+] decay records. The data were fitted by a linear combination of two to four exponential functions. A mathematical model with three intraterminal membrane-bound compartments was developed to describe the observed Ca2+ decay. The model predicts that the number of exponential functions, n, contained in the decay data corresponds to n − 1 intraterminal Ca2+ stores that release Ca2+ during the decay. Moreover, when a store stops releasing or starts to release Ca2+, the decay data should be fitted by functions that contain one less exponential component for the former and one more for the latter than do the fitting functions for control data. Because of the current lack of a parameter by which quantitative comparisons can be made between two decay processes when at least one of them contained more than one exponential components, we defined a parameter, the overall rate (OR) of decay, as the trace of the coefficient matrix of the differential equation systems of our model. We used the mathematical properties of the model and of the OR to interpret effects of ryanodine and of a mitochondria uncoupler on Ca2+ decay. The results of the analysis were consistent with the ryanodine-sensitive store, mitochondria, and another, yet unidentified store release Ca2+ into the cytosol of the presynaptic nerve terminals during Ca2+ decay. Our model also predicts that mitochondrial Ca2+ buffering accounted for more than 86% of all the flux rates across various membranes combined and that there are type 3 and type 1 and/or type 2 ryanodine receptors in these terminals.
Medication use in Alzheimer's disease and healthy aging: Results from a research registry

Abstract The purpose of this research was to determine if decreased utilization of specific medication in individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) reflects a global process of decreased medication usage. Participants were 1103 individuals (461 controls; 437 probable AD; 161 possible AD, and 44 Mixed Dementia), drawn from our Alzheimer's Disease Research Registry. Medication usage at entry into the registry did not differ between controls and probable AD cases. Possible AD and the mixed dementia cases took significantly more medications than controls or probable AD cases. Longitudinal analysis showed no significant changes in controls and mixed dementia cases up to 2 years, and use increased in possible and probable AD cases over time. Stratification of subjects by MMSE scores at entry showed no significant difference between groups. Medication use in probable AD patients does not differ from controls, and does not seem to be subject to systematic bias based on disease progression (as measured by MMSE sco...
A Review of: “The Corporation, directed and produced by Mark Achbar, Jennifer Abbott, and Joel Bakan”

If corporations are considered, for legal purposes, to be a person, what kind of person are they? This is the central question considered in The Corporation. The answer, arrived at rather early in ...
Pulsed and CW Molecular Beam CARS Spectroscopy

The advantages of molecular beam coherent anti-stokes Raman spectroscopy include increased spectral resolution from sub-doppler linewidths, improved signal-to-noise resulting from spectral simplification due to rotational cooling upon expansion, and the possibility of studying molecular complexes generated by the expansion process. In this paper we report recent high resolution CARS studies using pulsed laser sources combined with a reliable pulsed molecular beam source and the first cw CARS measurements in a steady state high Mach number supersonic expansion.
An Imaging Proximity Sensor for Robotic Inspection and Assembly

A two-dimensional array of small capacitive sensors detects the distance between each sensor tip and the target object. When touching the surface or operating at close distance, an image of the surface contour is obtained. Capacitive gauging is used because of its high sensitivity for the measurement of small distances. Each capacitive sensor consists of a thin short lead (line capacitance) embedded in a hard ceramic substrate. The sensor array is rugged and can, due to its small size, be configured to almost any desired shape in order to examine even hard-to-reach surfaces. An electronic circuit converts the capacitance variations into voltage signals. The sensing process is controlled by a microcomputer, which addresses the sensors in serial order through a multiplexer, samples the data and linearizes them according to the calibration curve. Experimental results with an imaging sensor arranged in a 4x4 matrix are reported. When compared to resistive touch sensors, the capacitive sensing method offers potentially higher package density and image resolution; another advantage is the capability to detect the presence of objects while approaching.
Re: Cancer Chemoprevention: Progress and Promise

Re: Cancer Chemoprevention: Progress and Promise The commentary by Lippman et al. (1) provides a useful review of the topic by organizing a massive amount of in- formation in an organized way. How- ever, because this review will be widely read and referenced, there are two gen- eral points made by the authors that could be challenged. The authors define two of the four criteria for identifying a “definitive” chemoprevention trial as “primary end point of cancer incidence” and “large scale (n 艌 1000) with the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Vol. 91, No. 6, March 17, 1999 definitive sample size and duration based on anticipated event rates in the intervention arm (treatment effect) and placebo arm.” One major goal of chemoprevention research is to determine the protective effect of an agent while placing as few participants as possible at risk. One straightforward way to accomplish this goal is to understand the process of the disease (carcinogenesis) sufficiently to conduct trials with markers that predis- pose to or predict the final end point of cancer. In general, most histologically identifiable precancers (e.g., cervical in- traepithelial neoplasia, Barrett’s esopha- gus, adenoma polyps, actinic kerotoses, and dysplastic nevi) evolve to cancer with a sufficiently predictable frequency to conclude that their reversal or sup- pression can be used to predict cancer development and to assess the value of a chemoprevention agent. There are, in fact, as the authors note, several studies (2–6) that have addressed the effective- ness of chemoprevention in this manner. The medical community accepts hyper- tension and cholesterol as surrogate “preneoplasias” of cardiovascular dis- ease risk and their modulation as indica- tive of a favorable or unfavorable drug effect. Modulation of the pathobiology of precancers is as valid a marker of carcinogenesis as is the end point of can- cer. Undoubtedly, advances in our un- derstanding of carcinogenesis will allow us to identify and develop new agents by the modulation of a biochemical event earlier in the carcinogenic process and this should be a major goal of chemo- prevention research. Large numbers may provide comfort to the investigator that a definitive result has been obtained. However, there are many instances in medicine when large numbers were not required to make the point, i.e., where the underlying cause CORRESPONDENCE 563
A Model for Developing a Gerontology Curriculum Module in Small Baccalaureate Social Work Programs

A model is described that infuses a gerontology curriculum module into an existing baccalaureate social work practicum seminar by tapping existing resources in the aging services network. Particularly practical in small programs, this model utilizes community practitioners in the aging services network as instructors for the gerontology curriculum module. Geriatric practice needs a focus on all levels of systems, and baccalaureate social workers bring a professional orientation that addresses the well-being of individuals and society. As practitioners in the aging services network work closely with social work programs in projects such as this model, there is increased opportunity to articulate the role of baccalaureate social workers in the field of aging as well as strengthen the gerontology competencies of baccalaureate social workers.
Tissue selective estrogen complex combinations with bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens as a model

The tissue selective estrogen complex (TSEC) pairs a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) with one or more estrogens. Different TSECs are associated with distinct gene expression profiles in mammary gland and endometrial tissue according to the individual SERM and estrogen components. Few TSECs have been evaluated outside the laboratory. In preclinical trials, bazedoxifene (BZA) was distinct from other SERMs, with a neutral effect on mammary gland and endometrial tissue, and an antagonist effect on these tissues when combined with conjugated estrogens (CE). The only TSEC in an advanced stage of clinical development pairs BZA with CE. In large, randomized clinical trials, two doses, BZA 20 mg/CE 0.45 and 0.625 mg, reduced menopausal symptoms and prevented bone loss in postmenopausal women with a favorable safety profile on the breast, endometrium, and ovary, and with cardiovascular and venous thrombosis events similar to placebo. Improvements were seen in sleep, health-related quality of life, and treatment satisfaction. Compared with traditional, progestogen-containing hormone therapy, BZA/CE had higher rates of amenorrhea and reduced breast pain, with changes in breast density from baseline similar to placebo. Future TSECs identified in preclinical studies need to be tested in rigorous phase-3 clinical trials for effectiveness, safety and tolerability.
Journal of Radiology Case Reports: Policy Updates

This article describes policy updates for manuscripts submitted after November 1st 2008 to the interactive Journal of Radiology Case Reports.
Characterization of a homogenous preparation of carboxysomes from Thiobacillus neapolitanus

A homogenous preparation of carboxysomes was isolated from Thiobacillus neapolitanus by means of density gradient centrifugation and preparative electrophoresis through agarose. Analysis of the carboxysomes by denaturing sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) revealed the presence of 12–15 polypeptides. Approximately 62% of the total protein was found to consist of the large and small subunits of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase-oxygenase (RubisCO). Two polypeptides were found to be components of the carboxysome shell. Ribose-5-phosphate isomerase, ribulose-5-phosphate kinase, and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase could not be detected in the carboxysome. Purified carboxysomal and cytoplasmic RubisCO were shown to be similar if not identical by several criteria including specific activity, carboxylase/oxygenase activity, and electrophoretic mobility.
Micromechanism of accelerated near-threshold fatigue crack growth in Al2O3/Al-Cu composite at elevated temperature

Fatigue crack growth behavior of a peak-aged Al2O3/Al-Cu composite was examined at 150 °C and compared to the behavior at room temperature (RT). At 150 °C, fatigue crack growth rates showed strong dependence on loading time. At short loading time, when stress-intensity range was decreased to approach fatigue threshold, crack growth rates at 150 °C were comparable to those measured at RT. Prolonged fatigue testing at near-threshold crack growth rates resulted in oscillations of crack growth rate until the fatigue crack growth behavior was stabilized to become similar to that in an overaged composite. Measurement of the matrix hardness at different distances from the crack plane and transmission electron microscopy examination of the fatigue specimen have shown that the matrix microstructure at the tip of the fatigue crack underwent overaging during prolonged testing in the near-threshold regime. Consequently, the fatigue fracture mechanism was modified, a lower crack closure developed, and the fatigue threshold reduced to that of the overaged composite.
Oscillations of Coupled Windings [includes discussion]

The oscillations of a single winding have been extensively investigated, but actually the most important practical case, the oscillations of coupled windings, has received but scant attention. The wave shapes and natural frequencies are determined in this paper for two coupled windings of any turn ratio and with the same or opposite winding direction, in air or on an iron core. The integral equation and the equivalent circuit methods, previously developed for single windings, are extended to introduce the effect of the secondary on the primary, and then to investigate various winding combinations of turns ratio varying from 1 to 1 to 1 to 9. Good agreement is found between computed and measured values of the natural frequencies and wave shapes.
Impaired cyclic AMP response to stimuli in glucose-desensitized rat pancreatic islets.

Abstract Isolated islets were either studied immediately after isolation (fresh: F), or were cultured for 6 days at 11 mM glucose (desensitized; D), or were incubated for 2 h at 5.5 mM glucose following D (recovered; R). Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in D islets was reduced compared with F and R islets. In the presence of 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, glucose also increased cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels in F islets, but failed to affect cAMP generation in R or D islets. Glucagon alone or in the presence of glucose stimulated insulin release in F and R islets, but the response was blunted in D islets. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP) potentiated insulin secretion in R islets, but not in D islets. Glucagon (0.01–0.1 μM) did not increase cAMP levels in D islets, whereas GLP (0.1 μM) increased cAMP as much as 4.5-fold. R islets recovered adenylyl cyclase responsivity to glucagon, and GLP increased cAMP levels as much as 9-fold. In F islets preincubated with 11 mM glucose for only 2 h, the cAMP response to GLP was inhibited. In F islets pretreated with forskolin for 2 h, the cAMP responses to glucose and GLP were inhibited. The cAMP response to forskolin stimulation was similarly inhibited in D islets and in islets pretreated for 2 h with forskolin. Forskolin pretreatment significantly attenuated the islet insulin release response to glucose, although the combined stimulus of glucose and GLP restored insulin release to control values. Insulin secretion in response to glucose and the cAMP analogue (Sp)5,6-dichloro-1-β-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole-3′-5′-cyclic monophosphorothioate was lower than that observed in F islets. In conclusion, β-cell cAMP accumulation in response to several stimuli acting through different mechanisms is impaired following continuous glucose stimulation. However, cAMP levels are not the definitive second messenger in the recovery of glucose-sensitive insulin secretion in glucose desensitized islets.
Amounts of isoaccepting lysine tRNAs change with the proliferative state of cells.

VARIATIONS in isoaccepting tRNA populations occur in mammalian cells during development, neoplasia, and virus infection, and such changes may reflect the involvement of tRNA in regulatory processes1,2, although firm evidence to that effect is not available. Ortwerth and Liu3 have shown that in normal or neoplastic cells an isoaccepting species of lysine tRNA, tRNA4Lys, is present in dividing cells but absent from non-dividing cells. Ortwerth et al.4 determined some of the functional properties of tRNA4Lys from various tissues and obtained evidence that the species is a real isoacceptor of tRNALys rather than an artefact. Normal, proliferating cells that were examined had only relatively small amounts of tRNA4Lys; however, a larger proportion of the isoacceptor was found in neoplastic cells such as mouse leukaemia and Morris hepatoma cells. It is desirable, therefore, to establish whether the large amount of tRNA4Lys is peculiar to the neoplastic state or whether normal cells may also have large amounts of that isoacceptor under some growth conditions. Therefore, we studied isoaccepting lysyl-tRNA profiles from mouse cells in different states of proliferation: adult liver, embryo and growing and quiescent primary cultures of embryonic cells. We found that normal growing cells also have an appreciable amount of tRNA4Lys.
The effects of radiative heat transfer during the melting process of a high temperature phase change material confined in a spherical shell

Abstract The influence of radiation heat transfer during the phase change process of a storage material has been numerically analyzed in this study. Emphasis has been placed on the thermal characterization of a single constituent storage module rather than an entire storage system, in order to precisely capture the energy exchange contributions of all the fundamental heat transfer mechanisms during the melting of a phase change material (PCM) with tailored optical properties. The equations describing the conservation of mass, momentum and energy have been solved by using the control volume discretization approach, while the radiative transfer equation (RTE) was solved by the discrete ordinate method (DOM). The enthalpy–porosity method was used to track the PCM liquid/solid interface during the process. A parametric analysis has been performed in order to ascertain the effects of the optical thickness and the Planck, Grashof and Stefan numbers on the melting rate, as well as the total and radiative heat transfer rates at the inner surface of the shell. The results show that the presence of thermal radiation enhances the melting process. Correlations for the melt fraction and modified Nusselt number are developed for application in the design process of packed bed heat exchangers for latent heat thermal energy storage.
Habitat utilization and alteration by the invasive burrowing isopod, Sphaeroma quoyanum, in California salt marshes

In recent years the pace of exotic species introduction and invasion has accelerated, particularly in estuaries and wetlands. Species invasions may affect coastal ecosystems in many ways. Alteration of sedimentary environments, through structure formation and burrowing, has particularly dramatic effects on coastal habitats. This study examines modification of channel bank and marsh edge habitat by the burrowing Australasian isopod Sphaeroma quoyanum Milne Edwards, in created and natural salt marshes of San Diego Bay and San Francisco Bay. Abundance and distribution patterns of this isopod species, its relationships with habitat characteristics, and its effects on sediment properties and bank erosion were examined seasonally, and in several marsh microhabitats. Mean isopod densities were 1541 and 2936 individuals per 0.25 m2 in San Francisco Bay, and 361 and 1153 individuals per 0.25 m2 in San Diego Bay study sites during December and July 1998, respectively. This isopod forms dense, anastomosing burrow networks. S. quoyanum densities did not differ as a function of location within creeks or location in natural versus created marshes. Burrows, which are on average 6 mm wide and 2 cm long, were associated with firm sediments containing high detrital biomass. Although erosion is a natural process along salt marsh banks, enclosure experiments demonstrated that isopod activities can enhance sediment loss from banks. In areas infested with S. quoyanum, losses may exceed 100 cm of marsh edge per year. The effects of habitat alteration by this invading species are likely to increase in severity in the coastal zone as these ecosystems become degraded.
Abstract 3154: Translation of TRAF1 is regulated by IRES-dependent mechanism and stimulated by vincristine in lymphoid malignancies

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC TRAF1 is a member of the TRAF family, which plays important roles in signal transduction that mediate cell life and death in the immune response, inflammatory and malignant diseases. It is known that TRAF1 transcription is inducible by various cytokines, but little is known about the regulation of its protein translation. In the present study, we demonstrated that the human TRAF1 mRNA has an unusually long 5’-UTR that contains an IRES regulating TRAF1 protein translation. By performing gene transfection and reporter assays, we revealed that this IRES sequence is located within the 572 nucleotides upstream from the AUG start codon. An element between nucleotides −392 to −322 was essential for the IRES activity. Interestingly, we found that the TRAF1 expression is induced in cancer cells by chemotherapeutic drug vincristine that regulates cytoplasmic localization of PTB protein, which may contribute to the IRES-dependent translation of TRAF1 during vincristine treatment. These results indicate that TRAF1 translation is initiated via the IRES and regulated by vincristine, and suggest that regulation of the IRES-dependent translation of TRAF1 may be involved in effecting the cancer cell response to vincristine treatment. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3154.
Changes in biogenic amine and benzodiazepine receptors correlated with conditioned emotional response and its reversal by diazepam

Groups of littermate rats were trained to respond for food reinforcement on a variable interval one-min (VI 1) schedule, afterwhich they were classically conditioned to associate a conditioned stimulus (CS) with footshock (conditioned emotional response; conditioned suppression; CER). Two control groups received yoked footshock (no CS) or the visual-auditory stimulus only (no footshock). On test day, a group of the CER conditioned animals received injections of either vehicle or diazepam prior to exposure to the VI 1 food-reinforced schedule. After 30 min of the VI 1 schedule, the CS was presented continuously for 15 min, after which the animals were decapitated, the brains removed, membranes prepared and in vitro receptor binding evaluated. During the CS, the CER animals suppressed responding and exhibited conditioned fear (emotional) behavior, while the control groups, and animals given acute diazepam, maintained normal responding. [3H]Diazepam binding was reduced in the CER animals, yet acute benzodiazepine administration did not effect this binding. [3H]QNB binding was reduced by CER and increased by diazepam administration. Adrenergic serotonergic and dopaminergic systems were also evaluated. Traditional biogenic amine systems may respond to CER and diazepam administration in some compensatory manner.
Mechanism of ethanol synthesis from syngas on Rh(111).

Rh-based catalysts display unique efficiency and selectivity in catalyzing ethanol synthesis from syngas (2CO + 4H2 → C2H5OH + H2O). Understanding the reaction mechanism at the molecular level is the key to rational design of better catalysts for ethanol synthesis, which is one of major challenges for ethanol application in energy. In this work, extensive calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) were carried out to investigate the complex ethanol synthesis on Rh(111). Our results show that ethanol synthesis on Rh(111) starts with formyl formation from CO hydrogenation, followed by subsequent hydrogenation reactions and CO insertion. Three major products are involved in this process: methane, methanol, and ethanol, where the ethanol productivity is low and Rh(111) is highly selective to methane rather than ethanol or methanol. The rate-limiting step of the overall conversion is the hydrogenation of CO to formyl species, while the selectivity to ethanol is controlled by methane formation and C−...
Acoustical holography by sector scanning

Sector or angular scanning is added to the arsenal of scanning techniques useful in acoustical holography. This method produces a distortion that can be used to counteract the distortion due to wavelength disparity in the recording and reconstruction steps. A first-order analysis based on the zone plate, preliminary experimental results, and possible applications are presented.
Enzymatic production of (-)-indolactam V by LtxB, a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase.

The P450 cytochrome monooxygenase gene, ltxB, was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli as a 6xHis-tagged protein. The resulting recombinant LtxB was purified by Ni-NTA affinity chromatography and characterized biochemically. Purified LtxB demonstrated typical cytochrome P450 spectroscopic properties including substrate-induced transition from a low-spin (λmax = 414 nm) to high-spin state (λmax = 386 nm) upon incubation with N-methyl-l-valyl-l-tryptophanol. The catalytic activity of LtxB was verified by demonstrating the oxidation/cyclization of N-methyl-l-valyl-l-tryptophanol to (−)-indolactam V. LtxB shows a relaxed specificity for analogue substrates in which the valyl group is substituted for other aliphatic groups. The relaxed substrate specificity of LtxB, along with the relaxed specificity of the prenyltransferase, LtxC, allowed for the enzymatic production of a series of (−)-indolactam V and lyngbyatoxin analogues.
Not the Last Word: Geriatric Hip Fracture Centers: The Time Has Come

Many years ago, I had a brief but provocative conversation with the Chief of Trauma in the basement of our hospital. I was on my way to the travel clinic, planning to get a half dozen shots before an off-road bicycle trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand. I mentioned my concern to the trauma chief about various infectious diseases I was hoping to avoid. “I don’t like those bugs either,” he replied. “But if I were you, I’d worry about falling off the bike and breaking a leg. They don’t have Level 1 trauma centers over there, you know.”
Vapor Phase Sorbent Precursors for Toxic Metal Emissions Control from Combustors

A bench scale system incorporating a high temperature flow reactor has been utilized to study the reaction of metallic species and sorbent compounds. The reaction and interaction between a lead precursor and a vapor phase silica precursor is studied. The effect of chlorine and the effect of sorbent to metal feed ratio on lead speciation and size distribution is determined. The size distributions of the reacted compounds are measured by a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) and an optical particle counter (OPC). The product powders are also collected and their compositions established by X-ray diffraction (XRD) or, if an amorphous powder is collected, by infrared and Raman spectroscopy. Experiments have been performed at 500, 750, 1000, and 1250 °C and for reactor residence times of 0.5−1.0 s. For example, at 750 °C, for a lead feed in conjunction with a vapor phase silica precursor compound, the mean particle size exiting the reactor is significantly larger than for a lead only feed or a silicon only ...
Phenotypic plasticity in life-history traits of femaleThalassoma bifasciatum (Pisces: Labridae): 2. Correlation of fecundity and growth rate in comparative studies

The cost of reproduction is a central concept in theories of life-history evolution. One way to empirically examine the tradeoff between current reproduction and future reproductive prospects is to use natural intraspecific variation in life-history traits. However, this approach is complicated by the sensitivity of life-history traits to variation in the level of resources. We report here an attempt to measure the cost of increasing reproductive activity in populations of female bluehead wrasse,Thalassoma bifasciatum, a coral-reef fish. All of the significant correlations of fecundity and growth rate were positive, in contradiction to the tradeoff predicted by the cost concept. In one of two regions studied, the populations with relatively high mean growth rate had a relatively large mean fecundity. The trait means were also positively associated over time: in months of rapid growth, female reproductive activity was high. Even after removing the effects of habitat and time period in a comparison of individual traits, no growth cost to reproduction appears. Variation in the abundance of resources over space and time is likely to interfere with the measurement of the cost of reproduction in many natural systems.
Power Scaling a Cr:ZnSe Thin Disk Laser by Increasing Pump Diameter

A 500 μm Cr:ZnSe thin disk gain element was pumped at five different pump diameters. Laser output versus pump power was measured. Slope efficiency, threshold, and maximum power versus pump spot size were then extracted.
RESPONDING TO THE CHALLENGE OF THE AT‐RISK STUDENT

From a survey /study of selected college initiatives, a review of selected contemporary research and criticism, and 25 years of researching and working with at‐risk students, the authors identify major implications for program design that serve well those educators seeking to address better the problems brought to community colleges by this growing student population. Under the umbrella of an over‐arching recommendation ‐‐ that colleges must increase support and structure for at‐risk students ‐‐ the authors describe institutional policies for increased structure and institutional strategies for increased support. Included in the specific recommendations are: pre‐enrollment activities that aggressively encourage eventual enrollment, required orientation to the college environment, elimination of late registration as an enrollment option, establishment of mandatory basic skill assessment and placement, elimination of dual /simultaneous enrollment in skill and regular academic courses, requirement that worki...
PROTEIN-BOUND IODINE IN THE SERUM OF SOLDIERS AND OF ESKIMOS IN THE ARCTIC

IT IS a common impression among clinicians that environmental stress which results in psychic trauma may precipitate hyperthyroidism in susceptible individuals. However, fluctuations in thyroid activity as a result of environmental changes have never been clearly demonstrated in normal humans by experimental methods. In certain animals one type of environmental stress, exposure to cold, does lead to a very substantial increase of thyroid activity (2). In the present investigation an attempt was made to determine whether exposure of normal human subjects to arctic cold would cause any stimulation of thyroid function as measured by the concentration of protein-bound iodine in the serum and by the basal metabolic rate. In addition, serum protein-bound iodine was determined in a group of Eskimos who spend their entire lifetime in the Arctic. MATERIAL AND METHODS The subjects were 7 healthy soldiers from 18 to 36 years of age stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky. The autumn months of 1947 constituted a control per...
Perennially ice-covered Lake Hoare, Antarctica: physical environment, biology and sedimentation

Lake Hoare (77 degrees 38' S, 162 degrees 53' E) is a perennially ice-covered lake at the eastern end of Taylor Valley in southern Victoria Land, Antarctica. The environment of this lake is controlled by the relatively thick ice cover (3-5 m) which eliminates wind generated currents, restricts gas exchange and sediment deposition, and reduces light penetration. The ice cover is in turn largely controlled by the extreme seasonality of Antarctica and local climate. Lake Hoare and other dry valley lakes may be sensitive indicators of short term (< 100 yr) climatic and/or anthropogenic changes in the dry valleys since the onset of intensive exploration over 30 years ago. The time constants for turnover of the water column and lake ice are 50 and 10 years, respectively. The turnover time for atmospheric gases in the lake is 30-60 years. Therefore, the lake environment responds to changes on a 10-100 year timescale. Because the ice cover has a controlling influence on the lake (e.g. light penetration, gas content of water, and sediment deposition), it is probable that small changes in ice ablation, sediment loading on the ice cover, or glacial meltwater (or groundwater) inflow will affect ice cover dynamics and will have a major impact on the lake environment and biota.
Zebrafish maintain regenerative capacity with age

NTRODUCTION: The South African clawed frog, Xenopus, serves s a useful model system, because the tadpoles can be obtained in arge numbers, are relatively large, and develop externally. We have reviously described cranial osteogenesis during metamorphosis and ound a dramatic remodeling of the skull. The purpose of this study as to investigate the mechanisms underlying the large-scale tissue urnover of the Xenopus skull during metamorphosis.
Phantom shocks unmasked: clinical data and proposed mechanism of memory reactivation of past traumatic shocks in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators

Background Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD), despite an unequivocal clinical benefit, are known to have a complex psychosocial impact on the patients. ICD shocks and the resultant psychobiological changes are known to contribute to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and post-shock stress symptoms in these patients. Phantom shock is a patient-reported perception of an ICD shock in the absence of any actual shock; however, its pathophysiological understanding is poor.
The geometry of ill-conditioning

Abstract Numerous problems in numerical analysis, including matrix inversion, eigen-value calculations, and polynomial zero finding, share the following property: the difficulty of solving a given problem is large when the distance from that problem to the nearest “ill-posed” one is small. For example, the closer a matrix is to the set of noninvertible matrices, the larger its condition number with respect to inversion. We show that the sets of ill-posed problems for matrix inversion, eigen-problems, and polynomial zero finding all have a common algebraic and geometric structure which lets us compute the probability distribution of the distance from a “random” problem to the set. From this probability distribution we derive, for example, the distribution of the condition number of a random matrix. We examine the relevance of this theory to the analysis and construction of numerical algorithms destined to be run in finite precision arithmetic.
Assembly line balancing with buffers by multiple criteria optimization

Abstract One of the problems in the design of multi-station lines is the allocation of different work elements to various workstations. This problem is called Assembly Line Balancing (ALB). The failure of workstations and other unforeseen circumstances can result in unnecessary idling of the production line. In order to improve the production rate of such systems, buffer storage of certain capacities can be allocated between each pair of workstations. In this paper, ALB with buffers is formulated as a Single Criterion Decision Making as well as a Multiple Criteria Decision Making problem. In the single objective problem, the cycle time is given and the optimal number of workstations and buffer sizes is obtained to minimize the total cost. In the Multiple Criteria problem, several criteria (objectives) are defined. These objectives are the number of workstations, their buffer sizes, the cycle time and the total cost of operation with buffers. We demonstrate how the set of efficient (nondominated) alternati...
Variations in Electrocardiographic Responses during Exercise Studies of Normal Subjects under Unusual Stresses and of Patients with Cardiopulmonary Diseases

Precordial electrocardiograms were taken before, during, and after exercise in 20 normal subjects and in 48 patients with cardiopulmonary diseases. Analysis of the findings was based on changes in Q-T interval, alterations in QRS, RS-T and T waves and on presence or absence of premature beats. Whereas in performing standard tests, normal subjects showed no evidence of coronary insufficiency, in about two-thirds of the patients abnormal changes were demonstrable. Definite RS-T depression and changes in Q-T interval were also observed in normal subjects under unusual stresses. The electrocardiographic changes during exertion were discussed and emphasized.
Studies on the mechanism of action of acetazolamide in the prophylaxis of hyperkalemic periodic paralysis.

Abstract Levels of glycogen and cyclic 3′, 5′-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) were determined in livers of rats treated with 10, 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg of acetazolamide (Diamox). When compared with livers of untreated rats, there were significant decreases in liver glycogen content and significant increases in cAMP levels at all doses of the drug. When liver slices were incubated in the presence of 10−5 to 10−3 molar acetazolamide, no difference was found between treated and untreated slices. Plasma insulin and blood glucose levels were also determined and it was found that although plasma insulin levels were significantly increased at all four doses of acetazolamide, blood glucose remained unchanged. These data suggest that acetazolamide induces glycogenolysis through an indirect mechanism dependent upon the release of some endogenous factor, e.g., glucagon or epinephrine, which, in turn, increases levels of cAMP. However, because insulin levels are increased, the increased glycogenolysis does not elevate blood glucose. Thus, it is suggested that acetazolamide stabilizes blood glucose levels while stimulating insulin secretion to potentiate the movement of potassium across muscle membranes and thereby correct the defect which causes attacks of hyperkalemic periodic paralysis.
Toward conceptual development and empirical measurement of global risk indicators in the lives of court-involved youth.

Summary.-This paper reports work related to the conceptual development and empirical use of global risk indicators meant to measure rapidly and reliably potential threats to the overall development and well-being of adolescents in the juvenile justic system. The development of these indicators and initial data regarding their use with court involved samples are presented. Analysis of data gathered from 3 sample containing 248 families of adolescents who participated in a family-based diversion program identified a seven-factor structure that corresponded to theoretically derived dimensions of risk in domains associated with prior offenses, family/parenting, education/work, peers, substance use, personahty/behavior problems, and attirudes/orientation. Analysis of data gathered from a second sample containing 373 families of adolescents who came into contact with the intakddiversion department of a county juvenile court codirmed the original seven factors of the battery and generated support for an eighth dimension composed of items char reElecred leisure activities. The use of these global risk indicators are discussed as part of a practical and effective assessment battery for professionals working with court-involved youth and [heir families. Each year, large numbers of youth involved in illegal activity have con
Pseudoaneurysm causing partial obliteration of the left atrium: Case report and review

We describe a case of left ventricular pseudoaneurysm with subepicardial dissection onto the left atrial wall, mimicking a smooth left atrial mass, causing partial obliteration of the left atrial cavity. This patient presented with a transient ischemic attack, most likely resulting from a thromboembolic episode to the brain. Emergent surgery was successfully performed and the patient is doing well at 1-year follow-up, with no signs of left atrial compression by transthoracic echocardiography. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Lipoprotein(a) link between structure and pathology

Abstract It is now established that high plasma levels of lipoprotein(a) are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, the mechanisms underlying this increased risk have not been elucidated. Lipoprotein(a) represents a class of lipoprotein particles having a cholesteryl ester-rich low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-like structure with a protein moiety represented by apolipoprotein B 100 covalently linked to apolipoprotein(a), the specific marker of lipoprotein(a). Lipoprotein(a) particles with a triglyceride-rich core have also been described. Apolipoprotein(a) is a glycoprotein containing about 30% carbohydrates by weight, with a polypeptide chain highly polymorphic in size (300–700 kDa) and structurally similar to plasminogen. There appears to be a relation between apolipoprotein(a) size and lipoprotein(a) species. From a number of studies, it is becoming apparent that lipoprotein(a) can transverse the endothelium and accumulate in the arterial initima either extra- or intracellularly. Immunochemical evidence has also indicated that apolipoprotein(a) in the artery wall is colocalized with fibrin(ogen), suggesting that this complexation may have an atherogenic potential by promoting the transformation of resident macrophages into foam cells. This might also occur by the chemical modification of lipoprotein(a) by the action of either oxygen-free radicals, malondialdehyde, or interactions with matrix components. These findings invite the speculation that much of the apolipoprotein B detected in atherosclerotic lesions is contributed by lipoprotein(a). The role that lipoprotein(a) size and density heterogeneity and apolipoprotein(a) polymorphism might play in the intima accumulation of apolipoprotein B is not established.
Restorative Justice in Indigenous Communities: Critical Issues in Confronting Violence Against Women

This paper discusses community-based responses to violence against indigenous women. It is argued that restorative justice holds great promise but there are significant challenges to ensuring that violence is effectively confronted and women protected. The following six critical issues are examined: (1) breaking the silence and education, (2) the needs of victims, (3) power relationships, (4) elders, (5) cultural values, and (6) resources. Data are provided from a study of violence against Inuit women in the Canadian eastern Arctic. Although the focus is on indigenous communities, the issues raised are pertinent to many other communities and cultures.
A neutral polypeptide--calcium ion complex.

Abstract Proton magnetic resonance studies have been utilized to demonstrate calcium binding to a neutral polypeptide containing only peptide functional groups, i.e. cyclo -(—Gly—Gly—Val—Pro—) 3 . This provides an explicit basis for the previously proposed neutral site theory for the binding of Ca 2+ to polypeptides and protein wherein the peptide oxygens directly coordinate the Ca 2+ .
Reduction of thrombosis in canine coronary bypass vein grafts with dipyridamole and aspirin

Abstract The potential benefit of platelet inhibitor drugs in reducing early thrombosis of coronary arterial vein bypass grafts was assessed in dogs. There were 26 control dogs and 24 dogs treated with dipyridamole, 55 mg/day plus aspirin, 325 mg/day. The dogs in both groups were killed at 2 hours and 1, 2, 3, 7 and 14 days after operation. The grafts were perfused with flxative in vivo, harvested and examined with light microscopy. Severe alterations of the graft wall were observed in the dogs in both groups. The grafts in the control group had a high incidence rate of thrombosis, which occurred early after the operation; those in the treated group had a significantly reduced incidence of thrombosis (p = 0.025). Our study indicates that a combined regimen of dipyridamole and aspirin is effective in reducing early graft thrombosis in dogs.
Response of Canola Cultivars to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in Controlled and Field Environments

ABSTRACT Sclerotinia stem rot (SSR), caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, can be a devastating disease of canola (Brassica napus) in the northern United States. No canola cultivars are marketed as having resistance to SSR. Field trials were established in Red Lake Falls, MN (2001, 2003, and 2004) and Carrington, ND (2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004) to evaluate canola cultivars for resistance to SSR. These cultivars also were evaluated for resistance to SSR under controlled conditions using the following methods: petiole inoculation technique (PIT), detached leaf assay (DLA), and oxalic acid assay (OAA). Significant (P ≤ 0.05) differences were detected among cultivars for SSR and yield in the field trials, with SSR levels varying from low to high among years and locations. Cultivars with consistent high levels and low levels of SSR in the field trials were identified. Significant (P ≤ 0.05) differences were detected among cultivars for SSR using the PIT and OAA methods, but not the DLA method. No significant (P ...
Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Case Study and Literature Review

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare, aggressive, highly metastatic, often fatal, primary neuroendocrine tumor typically located on sun-exposed skin. It is frequently found in white males aged 60 to 70 years. The somewhat typical benign clinical appearance of the lesion can result in a delayed diagnosis, leading to a less than optimal outcome.
Imitation of Self-Reward Standards by Black and White Female Delinquents.

40 black and 40 white female delinquents observed a black or a white male model who employed liberal or stringent standards of self-reward. Even when given explicit normative information, Ss imitated the self-reward standards of the model. There were no differences in imitation as a function of S's race or model's race. Comparison with a comparable recent study showed that the black male delinquents imitated the white liberal male model more than the black female delinquents.
ASSESSMENT OF WRITING IN MATHEMATICS

ABSTRACT A short description of how writing assignments can be used to assess mathematical abilities of students. Two examples are provided, one from a geometry class and a second from calculus. * Comments made to the MER Network Conference, Bowdoin College, 30 July 1992.