cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Agricultural Insurance as an Environmental Policy Tool

This paper examines the possibility that insurance for row crops, livestock, and aquaculture can be used effectively to encourage producers to adopt practices that will improve environmental behavior. Examples of agricultural environmental insurance are provided and considered in the context of alternative policy mechanisms. The current state of agricultural insurance and the nonagricultural environmental insurance market are explored. We also lay out the characteristics of an insurable risk along with the theoretical basis of insurance provision. An empirical example of an environmental insurance design is provided, and the behavioral implications of such a design are examined. Finally, we discuss important considerations that should be evaluated when considering an attempt to implement an agricultural insurance program directed at environmental behavior.
Early growth response gene 3 regulates thymocyte proliferation during the transition from CD4-CD8- to CD4+CD8+.

In thymocytes developing in the αβ lineage, the transition from CD4, CD8 double negative (DN) to CD4, CD8 double positive (DP) is associated with several rounds of cell division and changes in the expression of multiple genes. This transition is induced by the formation of a pre-TCR that includes a rearranged TCR β-chain and the pre-TCR α-chain. The mechanism by which the pre-TCR influences both gene expression and proliferation has not been defined. We have evaluated the role played by early growth response gene 3 (Egr3) in translating pre-TCR signals into differentiation and proliferation. Egr3 is a transcriptional regulator that contains a zinc-finger DNA binding domain. We find that Egr3-deficient mice have a reduced number of thymocytes compared with wild-type mice, and that this is due to poor proliferation during the DN to DP transition. Treatment of both Egr3 +/+ and Egr3 −/− mice on the Rag1 −/− background with anti-CD3e Ab in vivo results in similar differentiation events, but reduced cell recovery in the Egr3 −/− mice. We have also generated transgenic mice that express high levels of Egr3 constitutively, and when these mice are bred onto a Rag1 −/− background they exhibit increased proliferation in the absence of stimulation and have pre-TCR α-chain and CD25 down-regulation, as well as increased Cα expression. The results show that Egr3 is an important regulator of proliferation in response to pre-TCR signals, and that it also may regulate some specific aspects of differentiation.
Assessment of three dynamical climate downscaling methods using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model

[1] The common methodology in dynamical regional climate downscaling employs a continuous integration of a limited-area model with a single initialization of the atmospheric fields and frequent updates of lateral boundary conditions based on general circulation model outputs or reanalysis data sets. This study suggests alternative methods that can be more skillful than the traditional one in obtaining high-resolution climate information. We use the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model with a grid spacing at 36 km over the conterminous U.S. to dynamically downscale the 1-degree NCEP Global Final Analysis (FNL). We perform three types of experiments for the entire year of 2000: (1) continuous integrations with a single initialization as usually done, (2) consecutive integrations with frequent re-initializations, and (3) as (1) but with a 3-D nudging being applied. The simulations are evaluated in a high temporal scale (6-hourly) by comparison with the 32-km NCEP North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR). Compared to NARR, the downscaling simulation using the 3-D nudging shows the highest skill, and the continuous run produces the lowest skill. While the re-initialization runs give an intermediate skill, a run with a more frequent (e.g., weekly) re-initialization outperforms that with the less frequent re-initialization (e.g., monthly). Dynamical downscaling outperforms bi-linear interpolation, especially for meteorological fields near the surface over the mountainous regions. The 3-D nudging generates realistic regional-scale patterns that are not resolved by simply updating the lateral boundary conditions as done traditionally, therefore significantly improving the accuracy of generating regional climate information.
TER1, the RNA subunit of fission yeast telomerase

Telomerase is the ribonucleoprotein complex that adds telomeric repeats to the ends of chromosomes. Its protein subunit TERT is highly conserved among eukaryotes, whereas the RNA subunit varies greatly in size and sequence, hindering the identification of telomerase RNAs in some important model organisms. Here we report the identification and functional characterization of TER1, the telomerase RNA component from fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Deletion of ter1+ caused progressive shortening of telomeres and cellular senescence followed by chromosome circularization. Interactions between Est1 and Trt1, the two known protein components of fission yeast telomerase, were dependent on TER1, supporting its role as a scaffold for the assembly of protein subunits. Using a series of template mutations, we show that translocation or dissociation site variability and template-primer slippage account for the sequence heterogeneity of fission yeast telomeres.
Rapid PCR with nested primers for direct detection ofCampylobacter jejuniin chicken washes

Rapid detection of Campylobacter jejuni by PCR directly from foods, without prior growth steps, would be beneficial for the poultry industry. We have previously reported a PCR assay that allows detection of this bacterium after 48 h growth on Campy cefex agar. We have now developed a more rapid nested PCR assay that specifically detects C. jejuni in chicken washes that have not undergone any lengthy growth steps prior to PCR. For the nested reaction, an external set of primers, C-1 and C-4, are used for 24 cycles. At this time, 1 microl of the PCR product is removed and added to a second reaction. The second PCR assay is run with C-1 and an internal primer, C-2, for 24 cycles. A single band on a 4% NuSieve agarose gel at 122 bp was apparent with C. jejuni cells at a sensitivity of 10(2) cfu ml-1. With this method chicken carcasses can be washed and C. jejuni identified all within 1 day. We detected C. jejuni in approximately 80% of four groups of chickens using this method. The identifications have been confirmed by standard microbiological techniques.
Molecular Dynamics Models of Shaped Particles Using Filling Solutions

Abstract Algorithms such as molecular dynamics are useful computational methods for generating trajectories for studying kinetics and nonequilibrium, as well as equilibrium, problems involving ensembles of nano- and colloidal particles. Highly coarse-grained representations of complex particles can be created by rigidly connecting beads into a compos- ite particle. Here we show that by permitting the beads to vary in radii and to overlap, particles can be modeled with more complicated shapes, approaching perfect polygons and polyhedra in two and three dimensions, respectively. The positions and radii of the beads correspond to a filling solution of the very short-range repulsive shape of the modeled nanoparticle.
Understanding the decisions of cancer clinical trial participants to enter research studies: Factors associated with informed consent, patient satisfaction, and decisional regret

Abstract Objective To understand the psychosocial outcomes related to decision-making processes of individuals eligible for participation in clinical trials. Methods Individuals eligible to participate in selected clinical trials were contacted to complete two surveys; one shortly after participants were identified, and the second 6 weeks after the first survey was completed ( N = 50). Measures included subjective informed consent; satisfaction with decision-making; decisional regret; and timing of consent (early versus late signers). ANOVA and correlation coefficients were used to test the relationships between variables. Results Early signers reported themselves to be less informed about the details of their particular clinical trials than later signers ( M = 81.9 versus 91.2; F = 5.5; p = .02). There was a non-significant trend for early signers to be less satisfied with their decisions than late signers. Satisfaction with decision-making and subjective informed consent were both strongly associated with later decisional regret ( r = −.32 and −.30, respectively). However, there was no relationship between timing of consent and decisional regret. Conclusion Participants who enroll in clinical trials quickly may not believe they fully understand the implications of trial participation. In general, participants who do not believe they fully understand the implications of trial participation, or who are less satisfied with their decision to enroll in the trial may ultimately feel regret about their decision to participate. Practice implications More effort is needed to ensure that clinical trial participants fully understand the risks and benefits of participation and are satisfied with their decision to enroll in a trial prior to signing consent forms.
Effect of Raloxifene on All-cause Mortality

Abstract Objective Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, reduces osteoporosis and invasive breast cancer risk but increases risk for venous thromboembolism and fatal stroke in women with or at high risk for coronary heart disease. To assess the risk/benefit of raloxifene as a preventative treatment, we analyzed treatment effects on overall and cause-specific mortality. Methods A pooled analysis of mortality data was performed from large clinical trials of raloxifene (60 mg/day) versus placebo, including the Multiple Outcomes of Raloxifene Evaluation/Continuing Outcomes Relevant to Evista studies (7705 postmenopausal osteoporotic women followed for 4 years and a subset of 4011 participants followed for an additional 4 years; 110 deaths) and the Raloxifene Use for the Heart trial (10,101 postmenopausal women with coronary disease or multiple risk factors for coronary disease followed for 5.6 years; 1149 deaths). Cause of death was assessed by blinded adjudicators. Cox proportional hazards regression models compared mortality by treatment assignment in a pooled analysis of trial data from the Multiple Outcomes of Raloxifene Evaluation/Continuing Outcomes Relevant to Evista and Raloxifene Use for the Heart trials. Results All-cause mortality was 10% lower among women assigned to raloxifene 60 mg/day versus placebo (relative hazard 0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.80-1.00; P =.05). Lower overall mortality was primarily due to lower rates of noncardiovascular deaths, especially a lower rate of noncardiovascular, noncancer deaths. Conclusions All-cause mortality was 10% lower in pooled analyses among older postmenopausal women receiving raloxifene 60 mg/day compared with placebo, due primarily to a reduction in noncardiovascular, noncancer deaths. The mechanism whereby raloxifene might reduce the risk of noncardiovascular death is unclear.
Associations Among Walking Performance, Physical Activity, and Subclinical Cardiovascular Disease

An objective measure of walking performance could have several potential applications in clinical settings. The cross-sectional relationships among long distance corridor walk (LDCW) time, physical activity, and subclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD) measures were examined before group randomization in 492 participants (mean age, 57.0+/-2.9 years) from the Women On the Move Through Activity and Nutrition (WOMAN) study, a randomized clinical trial involving postmenopausal women. Longer walk times were significantly associated with higher body mass index (P<0001), average waist circumference (P<0001), and lower levels of physical activity (P<002). The proportion of detectable coronary artery calcification and median aortic pulse wave velocity levels were significantly higher among those with slower walk times (P<002 and P<.001, respectively). Findings from the current report support the utility of the LDCW to identify women at higher risk for CVD who may be candidates for further cardiovascular testing or intensive lifestyle intervention.
Familial and sporadic subtypes of early-onset Obsessive-Compulsive disorder.

Background Family studies of Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) indicate there is substantial heterogeneity in the familiality of the disorder. This study was done to determine whether there are differences between familial and sporadic probands with early-onset OCD in obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptom categories and comorbid psychiatric diagnoses. Methods We ascertained 50 OCD probands ranging in age from 10 to 19 years with an onset of OC symptoms before age 15 years. All probands were directly assessed with semistructured diagnostic interviews; their first-degree and second-degree relatives were directly or indirectly assessed with similar diagnostic instruments. Descriptive data were compared in 33 familial and 17 sporadic OCD probands using logistic regression to control for age, gender, and age at onset of OC symptoms. Results Ordering compulsions were significantly more common in the familial OCD probands. Aberrant grooming behaviors were significantly more frequent in the familial subgroup with skin picking contributing significantly to that difference. Anxiety disorders other than OCD were also significantly more frequent in the familial subgroup with phobic disorders contributing significantly to that difference. Conclusions The results indicate that familial and sporadic forms of early-onset OCD may be differentiated by ordering compulsions, aberrant grooming behaviors, and anxiety disorders other than OCD.
Abstract 4451: Long-term resistance to PI3K/mTOR inhibition requires increased expression of c-myc and YAP.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC We have shown that extracellular matrix (ECM) contact contributes to PI3K/mTOR inhibitor resistance, where drug treatment leads to cytostasis but not cell death in ECM-attached cells. These cells do undergo proliferation arrest and this may reflect the situation in vivo, where PI3K/mTOR inhibitor treatment initially leads to growth arrest of the tumor cells. However this is often followed by re-initiation of proliferation, leading to relapse. In this study we have investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms that mediate long-term resistance to PI3K/mTOR inhibitors by selecting for cancer cells that proliferate after chronic inhibitor exposure in 3D cell cultures. To assess the mechanism of resistance, we performed reverse phase protein and RNA-seq arrays to identify signaling pathways that were altered in proliferating drug resistant cells. The protein arrays revealed up-regulated levels of c-myc and the Hippo pathway effector, YAP, in the resistant cells, and introduction of exogenous c-myc and YAP into drug sensitive cells rendered them resistant. While expression of c-myc alone induced partial resistance, YAP was also required, as knock-down of endogenous YAP resulted in loss of resistance. These data suggest that c-myc alone is not sufficient for generating resistance to PI3K/mTOR inhibitors, but an additional driver is required. Since the Hippo pathway is another major growth-promoting pathway (in addition to mTOR), it is conceivable that YAP compensates for the loss of mTOR signaling, contributing to resistance. Our current efforts are aimed at elucidating the mechanism by which YAP and c-myc mediate drug resistance to PI3K/mTOR inhibitors. Preliminary data suggests that c-myc-dependent glutamine metabolism contributes to drug resistance, as inhibition of glutaminase prevents resistance. Citation Format: Taru E. Muranen, Jonathan Coloff, Laura Selfors, Amy Bui, Gordon B. Mills, Joan S. Brugge. Long-term resistance to PI3K/mTOR inhibition requires increased expression of c-myc and YAP. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4451. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4451
Neither the pituitary gland nor the sympathetic nervous system is responsible for eliciting the large drop in elevated rat pineal melatonin levels due to swimming.

Since the pineal gland is an end organ of the sympathetic nervous system, stress might increase the synthesis of its hormone, melatonin. The stress of a 10 min swim, which elicits a marked rise in circulating catecholamines, causes a dramatic depression of high pineal melatonin levels at night within 15 min after swimming onset. N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity is unaffected by the treatment at 15 or 30 min after swimming onset. Within 90 min after initiation of a 15 min swim, high nighttime pineal melatonin levels are restored while NAT values remain elevated. The swimming-induced reduction in high pineal melatonin levels is not influenced by either hypophysectomy, superior cervical ganglionectomy, prazosin (α1-adrenergic receptor blocker) pretreatment, yohimbine (α2-adrenergic receptor blocker) pretreatment, or reserpine (amine depletor) pretreatment. These results indicate that neither hormones secreted from the pituitary gland nor catecholamines secreted from the sympathetic nerves are involved in eliciting the dramatic reduction in elevated pineal melatonin levels in the rat.
Simultaneity in the use of maternal-child health care and contraceptives: evidence from developing countries

This study examined the relationship between the use of maternal-child health (MCH) care and the use of contraceptives. The high correlation between the two may be due to the independent effect of one on the other or to an association of both with the same or similar background factors. We used structural equation models to examine the relationship between these two interventions. The data were derived from six Demographic and Health Surveys: Zimbabwe from Sub-Saharan Africa, Thailand from Asia, Egypt and Tunisia from North Africa, and Guatemala and Colombia from Latin America. The results show that in all six countries, the use of contraceptives and MCH care are significantly associated, independent of intervening factors; this finding suggests that families develop a joint demand for better-quality health and limited family size and translate these demands into action by using health services for mothers and for children and by voluntarily regulating fertility.
Microbiology: Break down the walls

Nanoscale imaging reveals that bacterial and fungal enzymes use different mechanisms to deconstruct plant cell walls. The finding may provide clues about how to enhance the efficiency of liquid-biofuel production from biomass.
Instruments of Precision at the Paris Exhibition

I AM much interested in the article in the number of NATURE for November 15, on optical and other instruments at the Paris Exhibition. Although I visited the exhibition, I did not see the exhibit, as I went too soon after the opening. I should much like to obtain the catalogue mentioned. Will you kindly tell me where I should be able to obtain one by writing for it?
Granulomatous mastitis caused by histoplasma and mimicking inflammatory breast carcinoma

Two cases of a lobular, necrotizing granulomatous process causing a unilateral painful breast mass mimicking carcinoma are presented for comparison. While the morphologic appearance in each case was that of lobular granulomatous mastitis, the etiologic agent in one case appeared to be Histoplasma capsulatum, based on Grocott methenamine silver staining, and represents the second reported case of histoplasmosis involving only breast parenchyma. Awareness of the rare entity, granulomatous mastitis, is important for the pathologist because the definitive diagnosis is made microscopically. Thorough evaluation of the breast tissue is essential for its management and should eventually contribute to the clarification of its etiology.
Quiver mechanics for deconstructed matrix string

In this Letter we propose a quiver model of matrix quantum mechanics with 8 supercharges which, on a Higgs branch, deconstructs the worldsheet of matrix string theory. This discrete model evades the fermion doubling problem and, in the continuum limit, enhances the number of supersymmetries to sixteen. Our model is motivated by orbifolding the matrix model, and the deconstruction ansatz exhibits a duality between target space compactification and worldsheet deconstruction.
Retroviral transforming genes in normal cells

The hallmark of retroviral transforming genes (onc genes) are specific sequences which are unrelated to essential virion genes but are closely related to sequences in normal cells. Viral onc genes probably originated from rare transductions of these cellular sequences by retroviruses without onc genes. Consequently, it has been suggested that retroviral transforming genes are present in normal cells in a latent form. However, recent structural analyses indicate that viral onc genes and cellular genes, which share specific sequences, are not isogenic. They differ from each other in scattered point mutations and in unique coding regions. The cellular genes containing onc-related sequences are expressed in normal cells compatible with a normal function. There is as yet no functional or consistent circumstantial evidence that these cellular genes cause cancer in animals that are not infected by viruses with onc genes. Therefore, it is still uncertain whether the onc-related cellular genes have oncogenic potential beyond their role as progenitors of retroviral onc genes.
The electron mechanics of induction acceleration

Abstract The radial and axial motions of electrons in the betatron are described by means of a potential function of forces. Previously reported conditions of equilibrium, stability and damping of oscillations are derived for the region of parabolic variation of the potential. Extension of the analysis to, non-parabolic regions gives an account of the injection in conventional instruments in better agreement with experiment, particularly in regard to higher voltages of injection.Space charge limitations are discussed with the help of the Laplacian of the potential of forces.By means of an additional radial electric field electrons can be introduced as in the magnetron, without any asymmetry inherent in the conventional betatron circumferential injector. The analysis of the conditions of equilibrium and stability, greatly facilitated in this case by the notion of potential, shows that no substantial improvement in space charge limitations can be expected and that the required variations between the flux linking the electron orbits and the magnetic and electric fields at the orbits are difficult to realize on account of their complexity and narrow tolerances. The X-ray output of a small experimental double yoke instrument was measured by a phototube multiplier viewing an irradiated fluorescent screen and gave evidence of multiple group electron capture.
Histologic findings in persistent hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia of infancy: Australian experience.

Persistent hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia of infancy (PHHI) is characterized by hyperinsulinism and profound hypoglycemia, with most children requiring pancreatic resection. The histological classification of PHHI is controversial. Most authors acknowledge the existence of focal areas of islet cell proliferation (adenomatosis) in 30%–50% of cases and a diffuse disorganisation of islet architecture, termed “nesidiodysplasia,” in others. De Lonlay et al. reported that cases with adenomatosis are focal with normal remainder of pancreas and that focal and diffuse disease can be differentiated intraoperatively, on the basis of increased β-cell nuclear size found only in the diffusely abnormal pancreas. We have examined pancreatic histology in a blinded controlled study of PHHI patients. Pancreatic tissue was obtained at autopsy from 60 normal subjects (age 17 weeks gestation to 76 years) and from surgical specimens of 31 PHHI patients. Sections from PHHI subjects (n= 294 blocks) and control sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, NSE, cytokeratin 19, and vimentin. Three sections from each PHHI patient were randomly chosen for further analysis. Age-matched control (n= 34) and PHHI sections (n= 66) were examined, with the identity of subjects concealed. A diagnosis of normal histology, adenomatosis, or diffuse nesidiodysplasia was recorded for each section. The presence of large β-cell nuclei (>19 μm), ductuloinsular complexes, and centroacinar cell proliferation was noted.
Role of Germination in Murine Airway CD8+ T-Cell Responses to Aspergillus Conidia

Pulmonary exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus has been associated with morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. A. fumigatus conidia produce β-glucan, proteases, and other immunostimulatory factors upon germination. Murine models have shown that the ability of A. fumigatus to germinate at physiological temperature may be an important factor that facilitates invasive disease. We observed a significant increase in IFN-γ-producing CD8+ T cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of immunocompetent mice that repeatedly aspirated A. fumigatus conidia in contrast to mice challenged with A. versicolor, a species that is not typically associated with invasive, disseminated disease. Analysis of tissue sections indicated the presence of germinating spores in the lungs of mice challenged with A. fumigatus, but not A. versicolor. Airway IFN-γ+CD8+ T-cells were decreased and lung germination was eliminated in mice that aspirated A. fumigatus conidia that were formaldehyde-fixed or heat-inactivated. Furthermore, A. fumigatus particles exhibited greater persistence in the lungs of recipient mice when compared to non-viable A. fumigatus or A. versicolor, and this correlated with increased maintenance of airway memory-phenotype CD8+ T cells. Therefore, murine airway CD8+ T cell-responses to aspiration of Aspergillus conidia may be mediated in part by the ability of conidia to germinate in the host lung tissue. These results provide further evidence of induction of immune responses to fungi based on their ability to invade host tissue.
Explanations in knowledge systems: the roles of the task structure and domain functional models

An investigation of explanation (the process by which an expert system explains how it arrived at a particular solution) in the domains of logistics planning and diagnosis is discussed. The research was performed as part of the Strategic Computing Initiative of the US Dept. of Defense's Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Types and aspects of explanation are examined. The generic task approach to generating explanations of problem-solving strategies and steps and its implementation in the Mission Planning Assistant (MPA), which plans a particular kind of US Air Force mission are described. MPA uses a generic task tool called the design specialists and plans language. Explanation based on logical task structure is then considered. The use of causal models to confirm the plausibility of diagnostic hypothesis is discussed. >
Reduced endothelium-dependent and -independent dilation of conductance arteries in African Americans.

Abstract Objectives The goal of this study was to determine whether racial differences exist in the functional behavior of conduit vessels. Background Compared with Caucasians, African Americans have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease and its complications, which may be related to reduced nitric oxide (NO)-dependent and -independent vasodilation of the microvasculature. However, whether a similar impairment is also present at the level of the conductance arteries is unknown. Methods To this end, we studied endothelium-dependent (posthyperemia flow-mediated dilation) and -independent (nitroglycerin) vascular responses of the brachial artery by high-resolution ultrasound imaging. There were 46 black subjects (23 men and 23 women; age 37 ± 8 years and 38 ± 9 years, respectively) and 46 white subjects (23 men and 23 women; age 38 ± 11 years and 36 ± 9 years, respectively) in this study. Results Baseline diameter was similar in blacks and in whites (4.4 ± 0.9 mm and 4.1 ± 0.7 mm, respectively). Mean reactive hyperemia after cuff deflation was similar in the two groups (793 ± 653% in black and 852 ± 734% in white subjects, respectively; p = 0.5). Flow-mediated dilation was significantly lower in black compared with white individuals (4.79 ± 3.5% vs. 8.87 ± 4.5%, respectively; p Conclusions African Americans show reduced responsiveness of conductance vessels to both endogenous and exogenous NO compared with Caucasian Americans. These findings expand our understanding of racial differences in vascular function and suggest a mechanistic explanation for the increased incidence and severity of cardiovascular disease observed in African Americans.
COMPARISON OF DERIVATIZED POLYSACCHARIDE PHASES FOR SEPARATION OF WARFARIN AND RELATED DRUGS

In this study, amylose and cellulose derivatized with 3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate (DMPC) are compared using polar-organic eluents. Investigation of different mobile phase modifiers and acid/base additives showed that these stationary phases vary greatly in their retention and chiral selectivity for coumarin-based solutes. The DMPC-cellulose phase was found to have excellent resolution for coumatetralyl and adequate resolution for coumachlor enantiomers. However, no selectivity was shown for warfarin and coumafuryl enantiomers. In contrast, the DMPC-amylose phase was found to be the most promising for the separation of these solutes. The enantiomers of warfarin, coumachlor, and coumatetralyl have high resolution in this stationary phase. The type and concentration of organic modifiers affect the thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of the separation in these phases. Methanol and acetone decrease the selectivity in both phases, but tetrahydrofuran increases the selectivity of coumafuryl and coumatetralyl enant...
The structure of a Phaseolus vulgaris cDNA encoding the iron storage protein ferritin.

A cDNA containing the entire coding region for the iron storage protein ferritin has been isolated from the French bean plant,Phaseolus vulgaris L. cv. Tendergreen. Ferritin protein was purified from young leaves and shoot meristem tissue and used to raise antisera in mice. A λgt11 cDNA library was constructed from seed-derived poly(A)+ RNA, and screened with the mouse anti-ferritin serum. A 1.2 kb immunopositive phage DNA insert was isolated and sequenced. The derived amino acid sequence shows substantial similarity with other ferritin sequences. The 5′ untranslated region contains two out-of-frame AUG codons, a region of extreme pyrimidine composition bias and potentially stable secondary structure.
Effect of Experimental Prolongation of Life Span on Lipofuscin Content and Lysosomal Enzyme Activity in the Brain of the Housefly, Musca Domestica

The effect of experimental prolongation of life span on the rate of lipofuscin accumulation in the giant neurons of the brain and lysosomal enzyme activity in the head was studied in the male housefly, Musca domestica. The median and the maximum life span of the flies was extended twofold by varying their flight activity. The rate of lipofuscin accumulation was significantly faster in short-lived, high-activity flies as compared to the long-lived, low-activity flies. The maximal content of lipofuscin in the neurons was similar in both groups but was reached at a much older age in the low-activity flies. Age-associated profiles of the activities of the lysosomal enzymes beta-glycerophosphatase and beta-acetylglucosaminidase did not correspond to the mortality characteristics of the housefly populations. The results support the view that lipofuscin represents an integral aspect of aging and may be used as a cellular marker for physiological age whereas lysosomal enzyme activities do not seem to be directly related to the rate of aging.
Bladder, Bowel, and Sexual Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis.

•The majority of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience genitourinary and bowel dysfunction over the course of their illness [1,2,3 Class II]. •Lower extremity pyramidal signs are excellent predictors of concurrent bladder dysfunction. •Constipation is the most common bowel dysfunction, which results from a range of causes including pelvic floor spasticity, decreased gastro-colic reflex, inadequate hydration, medications, immobility, poor physical conditioning, and weak abdominal muscles. •Despite the advent of new therapeutic modalities, the physician and patient commonly overlook sexual dysfunction. A detailed history of the patient is crucial to determine the cause of the dysfunction. Fatigue, pain, mood disorders, spasticity, bowel, and bladder dysfunction can all interfere with normal sexual functioning, and these subjects should be explored in detail in order to plan for proper treatment. •Integrated treatment plans, often in conjunction with an urologist, can lead to amelioration of symptoms.
Investigation of the interdiffusion of Sb and Bi in [Bi/sub 2/Te/sub 3/]/sub x/{Sb/sub 2/Te/sub 3/]/sub y/ superlattices

[Bi2Te3]x[Sb2Te3]y superlattices have been shown to have decreased thermal conductivities as compared to bulk alloys, resulting in enhanced thermoelectric efficiency. A key to the preparation of these kinetically stable superlattices has been the use of low temperature epitaxial growth techniques. We are exploring the use of modulated elemental reactants to synthesize [Bi2Te3]x[Sb2Te3]y superlattices by controlling the diffusion distance through modulated layers of the elemental reactants. The modulated elemental reactants are made by depositing thin alternating layers of Bi and Te followed by alternating thin layers of Sb and Te onto ambient substrates to yield a series of superlattice precursors with varying periods. X-ray reflectivity, x-ray diffraction and Time of FlightSecondary Ion Mass Spectrometry have been used to characterize the superlattice precursors and their evolution as a function of temperature. For various x and y formation of the desired superlattice competes with interdiffusion of the Bi2Te3 and Sb2Te3 layers at elevated temperatures. This competition has been explored as a function of annealing temperature and time and will be discussed.
Effect of female partner age on pregnancy rates after vasectomy reversal.

Objective To determine the effect of female partner age on pregnancy rates after vasectomy reversal. Design Retrospective review. Setting Two academic infertility practices. Patient(s) Men undergoing vasectomy reversal and their partners. Intervention(s) Microsurgical vasectomy reversal. Main Outcome Measure(s) Patency and pregnancy rates. Result(s) Two hundred ninety-four patients met the inclusion criteria. Groups were similar with regard to types of procedure performed (vasovasostomy or vasoepididymostomy), obstructive interval, female factors, number of repeat procedures, and quality of vasal fluid. Patency rates were 90%, 89%, 90%, 86%, and 83% for patients with female partners aged 20–24, 25–29, 30–34, 35–39, and 40+ years, respectively. Pregnancy rates were 67%, 52%, 57%, 54%, and 14% for patients with female partners aged 20–24, 25–29, 30–34, 35–39, and 40+ years, respectively. The pregnancy rate for couples with female partner aged 40 or older was lower than for those with the female partner aged 39 or younger (14% vs. 56%). Conclusion(s) Pregnancy rates for vasectomy reversal were good regardless of female age as long as the partner was 39 years old or younger. Pregnancy rates were lower if the female partner was 40 or more years old.
The effect of a mixing tee on turbulent heat transfer in a tube

Abstract Heat-transfer coefficients for turbulent airflow in a circular tube situated downstream of a mixing tee have been determined experimentally. In the experiments, perpendicularly oriented air streams were respectively ducted to a tee via its center port and a side port. The merged flow exited the tee from the other side port and passed into the heated test section tube. From the experimental data, results were obtained for the circumferential average heat-transfer coefficient at a succession of axial stations and for the circumferential variation of the transfer coefficient at each such station. It was found that the mixing and turning of the flow gives rise to a substantial augmentation of the heat-transfer coefficients compared with those in a conventional thermal entrance region; the thermal entrance length is also substantially elongated. At a given Reynolds number, the axial distributions of the circumferential average coefficient are bounded between the distributions for the two limiting cases of no mixing (i.e. entire flow entering either via the side port or via the center port). When the axial distributions are normalized by the corresponding fully developed values, they are nearly insensitive to the Reynolds number. The circumferential variations are largest just downstream of the tee. In most cases, the variations decay to the ± 3% level at 12 diameters downstream of the tee, but in some instances residual variations persist at 40–60 diameters.
Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (POSS)-Containing Polymer Nanocomposites

Hybrid materials with superior structural and functional properties can be obtained by incorporating nanofillers into polymer matrices. Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanoparticles have attracted much attention recently due to their nanometer size, the ease of which these particles can be incorporated into polymeric materials and the unique capability to reinforce polymers. We review here the state of POSS-containing polymer nanocomposites. We discuss the influence of the incorporation of POSS into polymer matrices via chemical cross-linking or physical blending on the structure of nanocomposites, as affected by surface functional groups, and the POSS concentration.
Family Variables that Mediate the Relation Between Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and Child Adjustment

This study examined the mediating roles of several family variables in the relation between IPV witnessing and children’s emotional and behavioral problems among 129 low-income, African American children ages 8 to 12. According to the mediational model tested, experiencing or witnessing IPV negatively impacted the following family variables: maternal psychopathology, family cohesion, and relatedness quality, which were subsequently associated with diminished child adjustment. These findings were stronger when child reports were considered and when the outcome variable was internalizing problems. Findings from this study support the value of targeting these variables in the development of culturally appropriate child witness interventions for low-income African American families. Recommendations for future interventions based on study conclusions are offered.
The AID antibody diversification enzyme is regulated by protein kinase A phosphorylation

Antibodies, which are produced by B-lineage cells, consist of immunoglobulin heavy (IgH) and light (IgL) chains that have amino-terminal variable regions and carboxy-terminal constant regions. In response to antigens, B cells undergo two types of genomic alterations to increase antibody diversity. Affinity for antigen can be increased by introduction of point mutations into IgH and IgL variable regions by somatic hypermutation. In addition, antibody effector functions can be altered by changing the expressed IgH constant region exons through IgH class switch recombination (CSR). Somatic hypermutation and CSR both require the B-cell-specific activation-induced cytidine deaminase protein (AID), which initiates these reactions through its single-stranded (ss)DNA-specific cytidine deaminase activity. In biochemical assays, replication protein A (RPA), a ssDNA-binding protein, associates with phosphorylated AID from activated B cells and enhances AID activity on transcribed double-stranded (ds)DNA containing somatic hypermutation or CSR target sequences. This AID-RPA association, which requires phosphorylation, may provide a mechanism for allowing AID to access dsDNA targets in activated B cells. Here we show that AID from B cells is phosphorylated on a consensus protein kinase A (PKA) site and that PKA is the physiological AID kinase. Thus, AID from non-lymphoid cells can be functionally phosphorylated by recombinant PKA to allow interaction with RPA and promote deamination of transcribed dsDNA substrates. Moreover, mutation of the major PKA phosphorylation site of AID preserves ssDNA deamination activity, but markedly reduces RPA-dependent dsDNA deamination activity and severely impairs the ability of AID to effect CSR in vivo. We conclude that PKA has a critical role in post-translational regulation of AID activity in B cells.
MANOMETRIC FINDINGS IN DYSPHAGIA SECONDARY TO LEFT ATRIAL DILATATION : GIANT, CYCLIC MIDESOPHAGEAL PRESSURE WAVES OCCURRING WITH EVERY HEART BEAT

A 26-year-old male with left atrial dilatation because of severe mitral stenosis presented with dysphagia and weight loss. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed transmitted mural pulsations occurring at the frequency of the peripheral pulse and a compressed lumen in the midesophagus. Esophageal manometry revealed in the midesophagus a high-pressure zone with normally transmitted peristaltic waves through this region. Superimposed on the elevated baseline pressure in this zone were cyclic pressure waves occurring one-for-one with the QRS complex of the electrocardiogram. The midesophageal high-pressure zone and cyclic pressure waves are explained by pulsatile compression by the left atrium. Proximal and distal to this zone, the baseline esophageal pressure was normal, with no pressure oscillations present. This is the first direct manometric evidence that this dysphagia is due to mechanical obstruction from extrinsic compression and not due to dysmotility from esophageal nerve compression and injury by the dilated left atrium. This mechanism was previously supported by indirect radiographic evidence.
Testing the homogeneity of small error rates: application to the sensitivity of different Elisa tests for aids antibodies☆

Abstract This note develops modifications of the chi-square and maximum likelihood tests for the homogeneity of the success probabilities pi of k binomial variables when the number of trials, ni, vary widely and all pi are small. With N = Σni, and letting the ni/N approach fixed fractions, γi may differ. The procedures are appied to the first licensing data on the sensitivility which includes the case where the γi may differ. The procedures are applied to the first licensing data on the sensitivity of the ELISA tests used to screen for the AIDS virus and it is shown that one of the test kits was significantly less sensitive than the others.
Coupling dilute protein to CNBr-agarose

Abstract We have studied the kinetics with which proteins are coupled to CNBr-agarose beads. We find that coupling can be represented adequately by a rate equation which is firt-order in protein concentration and first-order in the ‘concentration’ of bead reactive sites. There is, however, one proviso: it is necessary to postulate that a large number of reactive sites are ‘masked’ by each molecule of protein bound. We explore the consequences of this rate law for the practical problem of achieving a high coupling yield, using several different boundary conditions of interest. We also extend the analysis to consider the coupling of highly dilute, labile proteins, which are losing activity in competition with being coupled to the beads.
Moving (Euro American) consumers in mysterious ways with African-American social dance in commercials

Dance is an integral part of culture, as is consumption. However, there is a paucity of published research regarding the effect of dance on consumption. In particular, studies on how black social dance in commercials depicts culturally defining racial tensions and stereotypes, and its effect on Euro American consumption are scant. Consequently, qualitative research was employed to survey and interview a small group of Euro American respondents. A Diet Pepsi commercial served as the research text. A consuming value system reinforced the association of the dance with consumption of individual identity as cool; fractured conformity away from the defining macro social structure; and provided for resistive self and community identities. Three contributions result from the research. First, an alternative way of seeking knowledge through dance theory demonstrated dance's value for consumer's lives. Second, Holt's 2004 work was built upon. The dance demonstrated cultural myth recreation in a “macro dance” perform...
Diagnosis of obstructive airways disease from the clinical examination.

Objective: To determine the operating characteristics of history and physical examination items for pulmonary airflow obstruction. Design: Prospective observational study. Setting: Medical Preoperative Evaluation Clinic at the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Patients/participants: Consecutive patients referred for outpatient medical preoperative risk assessment. Interventions: None. Measurements and main results: Number of years the patient had smoked cigarettes, patient-reported wheezing [LR+ (likelihood ratio for finding present)=3.1; LR− (likelihood ratio for finding absent)=0.58], and auscultated wheezing (LR+=12; LR−=0.87) were independent predictors of obstructive airways disease from the history and physical examination. Forced expiratory time and peak expiratory flow rate, both measured by the clinician at the bedside, were additional independent predictors of airflow obstruction. A nomogram using patient-reported wheezing, number of years the patient had smoked, and auscultated wheezing was developed and validated (area under receiver operating characteristic curve=0.78; p=0.0001) for the bedside prediction of obstructive airways disease. Peak expiratory flow rate can be substituted for auscultated wheezing with similar predictive ability. Conclusions: The results of bedside clinical examinations predict the presence of obstructive airways disease. A nomogram based on a combination of four bedside findings predicts airflow obstruction as well as clinicians’ overall clinical impressions.
Low-temperature luminescence of OH and OD in KBr crystals

Abstract Several emission bands in the near ultraviolet are observed for KBr:OH and KBr:OD at low temperatures and are identified with OH and OD by excitation spectra, isotope shift and comparison with vibrational frequencies of the molecules. A composite configuration coordinate diagram is proposed to account for the experimental results.
Reconstructing the Past: A Century of Ideas About Emotion in Psychology

Within the discipline of psychology, the conventional history outlines the development of two fundamental approaches to the scientific study of emotion—“basic emotion” and “appraisal” traditions. In this article, we outline the development of a third approach to emotion that exists in the psychological literature—the “psychological constructionist” tradition. In the process, we discuss a number of works that have virtually disappeared from the citation trail in psychological discussions of emotion. We also correct some misconceptions about early sources, such as work by Darwin and James. Taken together, these three contributions make for a fuller and more accurate account of ideas about emotion during the century stretching from 1855 to just before 1960.
On the nature of things: The politics of scientific evaluation

Abstract This article examines an inferred avoidance by clinically oriented psychology journals of innovative findings and studies that are inconsistent with theories currently in vogue. It suggests that manuscripts which challenge existing models and approaches to practice have a high probability of rejection. It notes an increasing evidence that personality and mental illness may have a basis in biological or genetic factors. It questions how meaningful evaluation can be achieved during review by those who avoid innovation, and whether clinical psychology can be confined to learning and/or cognitive theory and remain viable. A remedy is suggested to repair the problem.