cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of in vivo changes in phospholipid composition on liver microsomal calcium transport

Abstract We recently reported that the phospholipid composition of mouse liver microsomes could be altered in vivo by a combination of dietary choline deprivation and administration of the methylation inhibitors periodate-oxidized adenosine and cycloleucine (D.M. Boyle & W.L. Dean (1982) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 688, 667–670). We have now determined the effect of this in vivo change in phospholipid composition on 7 microsomal enzyme activities and 2 cytochromes. The specific contents of cytochromes b 5 and P-450 were unaffected by the treatment. Similarly, NADH-cytochrome c reductase, cytochrome P-450 reductase, cyclohexane hydroxylase and Mg 2+ -ATPase were not significantly altered. In addition, the phospholipid/protein ratio was not changed. In contrast, Ca 2+ -ATPase and Ca 2+ transport rates were reduced by more than 60%. This result suggests that the mouse liver microsomal Ca 2+ -ATPase is extremely sensitive to the phospholipid composition of the membrane in which it is embedded and tht one mode of control of calcium metabolism in liver cells could be at the level of membrane phospholipid composition
Efficient algorithms for the compression of FASTQ files

Since the introduction of the Sanger sequencing technology in 1977 by Frederic Sanger and his colleagues, we observe an explosion of sequence data. The cost of storage, processing, and analyzing the data is getting excessively high. As a result, it is extremely important that we develop efficient data compression and data reduction techniques. But standard data compression tools are not suitable to compress biological data since they contain many repetitive regions. There could exist high similarities among the sequences. In this context we need specialized algorithms to effectively compress biological data. In this paper we propose novel algorithms for compressing FASTQ files. We have done extensive and rigorous experiments that reveal that our proposed algorithm is indeed competitive and performs better than the best known algorithms for this problem.
Estimating Variance Components for Two-Way Disproportionate Data with Missing Cells by the Method of Unweighted Means

Abstract The method of unweighted means, which is a simple analysis based on cell means, has been limited to designs where every cell has at least one observation. Here, the method of unweighted means is examined with regard to estimating the variance components for a two-way classification with unequal numbers of observations in the cells and with one or more cells having no observations. In particular, two estimating procedures based upon the method of unweighted means are developed to estimate the variance components for a design with missing cells. These two unweighted means procedures are then examined numerically.
Impact of Structural Reforms on Productivity Growth in Industrial Countries

This paper investigates the impact of structural reforms on productivity growth. A panel analysis of 20 OECD countries finds that the impact of structural reforms on productivity growth may be weak or negative in the short run, possibly due to adjustment costs and the need for firms to learn how to operate in a less regulated and more competitive environment. In the long run, however, structural reforms are found to have significantly positive effects on productivity growth.
First-principles determination of equilibrium crystal shapes for metals at T=0

We propose a simple method to evaluate the energies of ideal metal surfaces as a function of orientation based on cluster energy expansion. By symmetry only clusters with even-number corners will be present. It is found that the energy expansion converges rapidly and in most cases can be truncated at the pair interaction level. The parameters can be determined from a limited number of low-index surface energies obtained from first-principles calculations. The equilibrium crystal shape at T=0 is then predicted and the step energy on major facets is derived for some fcc metals.
Kinetics of thermal and acid-catalyzed deprotection in deep-UV resist materials

In chemically amplified resists, relief image formation strongly depends on the chemistry occurring during the post-exposure bake step. By combining experimental measurements and kinetics simulations, we propose a reaction mechanism describing both acid-catalyzed and uncatalyzed thermolysis routes leading to changes in polymer solubility. The temperature-dependent kinetic parameters derived here provide guidance in CA resist process and materials design.
There and Back Again: “Tin” or “Lead” in Amos 7:7-9?

AbstractScholars have struggled with the meaning of the word אנך, which appears twice in Amos 7:7 and twice in Amos 7:8. Traditionally, many scholars have defined אנך as “lead” and understood it with reference to a plumb line. In recent years, however, the majority of readers have instead defined אנך as “tin.” This has spawned a variety of interpretations that try to make sense of how exactly tin might fit into the context of Amos 7:7-9.This paper critiques the notion that אנך means “tin” rather than “lead.” It shows that, contrary to the present interpretative norm, there are no lexical grounds for defining אנך exclusively as “tin.” From a lexicographical perspective, the definition “lead” remains the most viable option.
Televised news, trait inferences, and support for political figures

Viewing a news story containing targeted “facts” about the behavior and experiences of a political figure led to substantial alterations in subjects’ perceptions of related personal characteristics. Changes in several of these perceptions were in turn related to changes in global affect — known to bear a strong relationship to vote choice and other politically relevant behaviors. Results were unaffected by partisan identification. This suggests that in an era of declining party loyalty and involvement in politics, the influence of televised newscast information about politicians may transcend party lines.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AGE AND SECOND LANGUAGE PRODUCTIVE ABILITY

This study examines the relationship between certain aspects of the second language acquisition process and age. An oral production test was developed to assess the ability of nonnative English speaking children to produce standard English morphology and syntax. The test was administered to approximately 200 children (ages 6–15) who were learning English as a second language in American public schools. The results of this testing were used to examine the relationship between age and 1) the rate of acquisition of certain English grammatical structures and 2) the order of acquisition of these grammatical structures. The results indicated that there was some relationship between age and rate of learning. Among children exposed to English the same amounts of time, the older children scored higher on the morphology and syntax subtests, whereas the younger children received higher ratings in phonology. There were, however, no major differences observed in the order in which children of different ages learned to produce the structures included in the test. These results suggest that there is a difference in the rate of learning of English morphology, syntax and phonology based upon differences in age, but that the order of acquisition in second language learning does not change with age.
Intraoperative Brain Tumor Resection Cavity Characterization with Conoscopic Holography

Brain shift compromises the accuracy of neurosurgical image-guided interventions if not corrected by either intraoperative imaging or computational modeling. The latter requires intraoperative sparse measurements for constraining and driving model-based compensation strategies. Conoscopic holography, an interferometric technique that measures the distance of a laser light illuminated surface point from a fixed laser source, was recently proposed for non-contact surface data acquisition in image-guided surgery and is used here for validation of our modeling strategies. In this contribution, we use this inexpensive, hand-held conoscopic holography device for intraoperative validation of our computational modeling approach to correcting for brain shift. Laser range scan, instrument swabbing, and conoscopic holography data sets were collected from two patients undergoing brain tumor resection therapy at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The results of our study indicate that conoscopic holography is a promising method for surface acquisition since it requires no contact with delicate tissues and can characterize the extents of structures within confined spaces. We demonstrate that for two clinical cases, the acquired conoprobe points align with our model-updated images better than the uncorrected images lending further evidence that computational modeling approaches improve the accuracy of image-guided surgical interventions in the presence of soft tissue deformations.
Separate and combined effects of marijuana and alcohol on mood, equilibrium and simulated driving.

Abstract Rationale . Marijuana and alcohol, when used separately and in combination, contribute to automobile accidents and failed sobriety tests of standing balance. However, the extent to which the drugs have additive effects on both of these measures is unknown. Objectives . This study was designed to compare directly the separate and combined effects of marijuana and alcohol on simulated emergency braking and dynamic posturography. Methods. Twelve healthy subjects who regularly used both marijuana and alcohol completed nine test sessions in a counterbalanced within-subject design. Subjects drank a beverage (0, 0.25, or 0.5 g/kg alcohol) then smoked a cigarette (0, 1.75, or 3.33% THC). Testing began 2 min after smoking and was conducted within the ascending limb of the blood alcohol curve. Results. The 0.5 g/kg alcohol dose significantly increased brake latency without affecting body sway. In contrast, the 3.3% THC dose increased body sway but did not affect brake latency. There were no additive drug effects on mood or behavior. Conclusions . Although field sobriety tests are often used to determine driving impairment, these results suggest that impaired balance following marijuana use may not coincide with slowed reaction time. Conversely, braking impairment from low doses of alcohol may not be revealed by tests of balance.
What Are High Schools Offering as Preparation for Employment

The purpose of this study is to determine (a) the patterns that existed in employment preparation courses offered by districts across a midwestern state and (b) the primary intent, primary method of instruction, and location of the classroom-based and work-based components of these courses. Findings indicated that (a) employment preparation offerings were limited, (b) career and technical education was the primary vehicle for delivering employment preparation, (c) the majority of employment preparation course work was offered in the classroom setting, (d) the intent of instruction for work-based-only courses was different from other delivery models, (e) the primary method of instruction in classroom-based-only courses was combined lecture and experiential, and (f) the method of delivering work-based learning differed by model.
Functional Dynamics in Chlorella virus DNA Ligase

DNA ligases specifically recognize and seal double stranded nicked DNA by catalyzing the formation of a phospho-diester bond between the 3′OH and 5′ phosphate termini. In physiological conditions these ubiquitous enzymes are essential for DNA replication, repair and recombination, while in tumor cells they can play a critical role in apoptosis resistance.Chlorella virus ligase is a pluripotent ATP-dependent ligase composed by two domains, a N-terminal nucleotidyltransferase domain, hosting the catalytic site, and a C-terminal OB-domain, both of which participate to DNA binding. A number of crystallographic studies have elucidated important structural details of the nick-sealing process. DNA binding, in particular, appears to require a large reorientation of the two domains, as well as relevant structural rearrangements localized mainly in the N-terminal region (1). Indeed this protein appears to be a highly dynamic system whose internal motions are closely linked to both the DNA recognition and to the catalytic process. So far, however, the actual nature of these motions is still largely unknown, not only for Chlorella virus ligase, but also for the entire protein family.We therefore tried to close this gap by undertaking the analysis of the dynamic properties of Chlorella virus liagase by solution NMR spectroscopy.Reference:(1) Nair P.A., Nandakumar J., Smith P., Odell M., Lima C.D., Shuman S. (2008) Nat Struct Mol Biol. 14, 770-8.
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE

The differential diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) is vast, encompassing a variety of neurodegenerative and metabolic conditions, toxin exposures, and vascular disease. Most parkinsonian patients present with clinical clues to guide the neurologist's diagnostic assessment. In many cases, however, the exact diagnosis cannot be made without an autopsy to provide pathology. Based on pathologic confirmation, only about 80% of parkinsonism cases are correctly diagnosed with idiopathic PD during life. The other 20% actually have other disorders, even in centers with experts in the diagnosis of PD. 20 A definite neurodiagnostic test for PD is not yet available. Therefore the clinical examination, supplemented by tests to rule out other causes, forms the basis of diagnosis. This article discusses the differential diagnosis of parkinsonism, concentrating on distinguishing clinical characteristics and useful diagnostic tests.
Tell Us More: Reading Comprehension, Engagement, and Conceptual Press Discourse

This study examines interactions between teachers and students during reading comprehension instruction to determine how certain patterns of teacher–student talk support student comprehension achievement and reading engagement. The central focus of the study is conceptual press discourse, a pattern of teacher response that includes requests for evidence, examples, clarification, and elaboration. Hierarchical Linear Modeling analysis of data from 21 fourth- and fifth-grade classrooms (495 students) indicated that in classrooms where teachers more frequently used discourse patterns that reduced conceptual press, students demonstrated weaker comprehension and engagement outcomes.
Simulation of the optimal combination of waste treatment and spatially distributed discharge of effluent using Pontryagin's minimum principle

Optimal control theory based on Pontryagin's minimum principle has been applied to the problem of specifying the best combination of minimum percent BOD waste treatment and effluent distribution policies for a single plant on a specified polluted river segment. The simulation analysis features a new dual water quality stream standard consisting of a minimum allowable dissolved oxygen concentration at every point in the river segment combined with a maximum allowable BOD concentration at a specified downstream point. The optimal BOD effluent distribution policies are compared with choice suboptimal effluent discharge patterns associated with best single point, best uniform and best bang-bang injection policies. The inequality constraints the nonlinearities in the system model, and the synthesis of the optimal controls were handled numerically in a direct manner using Pontryagin's minimum principle combined with gradient search and penalty function techniques. The results of the study very definitely established certain guidelines for increasing the assimilative capacity of a given river segment through judicious combinations of minimum percent BOD waste treatment and continuous BOD effluent distribution or dumping patterns associated with single plant effluents. The system analysis was made tractable by incorporating a no short-circuit constraint into the dumping policies.
Detection of influenza A in clinical specimens and cell culture fluid by a commercial EIA.

Abstract A MoAb-based capture EIA for the direct detection of influenza A from clinical samples was compared with cell culture isolation. A total of 330 respiratory specimens were submitted for detection of influenza A and/or other respiratory viruses. Influenza A was detected in 39 of 330 (12%) respiratory samples by culture or EIA. There were 33 concordant (EIA+/Culture−) samples (82%), and 6 discordant samples (3 EIA +/Culture−; 3 EIA−/Culture+). Compared to viral isolation, the EIA had a sensitivity of 92%, a specificity of 98%, with positive and negative predictive values of 92% and 99%, respectively.
CHEMICAL STRATIFICATION IN THE SENECA/OSWEGO RIVERS (NY)*

The occurrence and characteristics of chemically-based density stratification in portions of the Seneca and Oswego Rivers, downstream of ion-polluted Onondaga Lake, are described for seven different days in the summer and fall of 1978 and 1981, which covered a wide range of river flows. The results indicate that chemically-based density stratification occurs routinely in the Seneca River downstream of the lake inflow, in response to a continuous chemically-based density difference between the two systems of 0.0015 to 0.0030 g cm−3. The persistence of the phenomenon, and therefore the longitudinal range over which the river stratification occurred, was dependent on the velocity of river flow and the magnitude of the density gradient that bordered the upper river water and the lower released lake water. During the low flows common to summer the stratification extended approximately 14 km downstream to a dam, and 3 km upstream, of the lake outlet — river junction. Vertical mixing between the stratified layers increased as the flow in the Seneca River increased, and as the vertical density gradient decreased. A dimensionless group, $$\frac{D}{{V\left( {\frac{\rho }{{\Delta _\rho /\Delta _z }}} \right)}}$$ where: D = apparent vertical diffusion (m2 hr−1), V = average velocity of the overlying river flow (m hr−1 ), p = density at the interface between the stratified layers (g cm−3), and Ap/Az = density gradient between the stratified layers (g cm−3 m−1), was found to be constant for summer low flow conditions for a 6.5 km length of the Seneca River, thus quantifying the interaction between vertical mixing and the included influences for that portion of the river.
Designing Nanoparticle Colloidal Shells for Selective Transport

We present a theoretical model that relates transport through a colloidal shell to the shell thickness, packing density, the colloidal particle size, and polydispersity. The model addresses two cases: Self-assembled monolayer shells and fused shells. In the former case, the shell thickness is equal to the colloidal particle diameter, and the packing density is determined by adsorption thermodynamics. In the latter case, the shell thickness may be several times that of the particle dimensions, and the packing density is set by the fusion process. We find that the pores formed by close-packing of the particles in the shell enable size exclusion, namely, prohibit transport of diffusants larger than a critical size. As may be expected, the critical dimension for size selectivity is proportional to the colloidal particle radius, and decreases with packing density. For diffusants smaller than the size-exclusion limit, we find that the rate of transport decreases with increasing packing density of particles in t...
Effect of Mouse Passage on Fc Receptor Expression by Group A Streptococci

The expression and stability of receptors for the Fc region of human IgG on the surface of group A streptococci was studied. Two strains were sequentially passed in mice 22 times. The Fc-receptor expression on one group A strain, 529, was unaltered while the expression of Fc receptor on a second, 64, was enhanced and approached the level of Fc-receptor expression of the protein A-rich Staphylococcos aureus Cowan strain. The level of Fc-receptor expression on this organism remained stable for over 18 months of laboratory subculture. Mouse passage did not result in the production of a soluble Fc receptor from either of the streptococcal strains. Heat extraction of the Fc-receptor-positive group A strain resulted in solubilization of an Fc-receptor activity which was functionally distinct from either staphylococcal protein A or the Fc receptor isolated from a group C streptococcus.
Aortic implantation is possible in all cases of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery.

Background. Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (PA) optimally is treated by creation of a multiple coronary system. This study explores the use of aortic implantation employing alternative methods to achieve coronary transfer in all patients, regardless of the site of origin of the anomalous coronary artery, avoiding the problems of bypass grafts and tunnel procedures. Methods. During the period 1986 to 1994, 11 patients aged 6 months to 8 years (mean age, 2.6 years) underwent repair. Coronary artery origin from the PA included left sinus in 3, posterior in 2, right sinus in 2, intramural aorta with its orifice at the bifurcation of the main and right PA in 1, high left main PA in 1, high at the bifurcation of main and right PA in 1, and anterior in 1. Findings included angina in 4, prior infarctions in 3, ischemia in 7, left ventricular dysfunction in 6, mitral regurgitation in 5, atrial septal defect in 2, and echocardiograms suggestive of endocardial fibrosis in 4. One patient had prior ligation with ventricular dysfunction and collateralization and recanalization. A single patient was asymptomatic. Repair was accomplished by direct transfer using the PA sinus of Valsalva as a button in only 6; tubular reconstruction was used in 4 when the distance was too great to avoid tension; 2 short tubes were constructed with PA wall in 2 of the 3 left sinus origins, whereas 2 long tubes of PA wall were used (1 high on the left side of the main PA and 1 with left anterior descending origin from the anterior sinus of Valsalva in a patient with malrotation [end neo-artery to side aortic reconstruction]); finally, in situ transfer and intraaortic reconstruction (unroofing and anastomosis) was performed in 1 intramural coronary artery. Division of the PA, mobilization of the distal PA, division of the ductus, and direct reanastomosis of the PA was performed in 3 tubular reconstructions, as well as all 6 direct coronary transfers. Results. There were no operative or late deaths. Follow-up of 2 to 100 months (mean, 46 months) revealed no new angina or infarctions, improved function and decreased mitral regurgitation. Echocardiographic and angiographic studies demonstrated patency and prograde flow in the new coronary systems. Conclusions. Aortic implantation is the treatment of choice for anomalous origin of the left coronary artery. Methods such as direct transfer, tubular reconstruction, and in situ transfer make such implantation possible in all patients regardless of the site of coronary origin, distance from the aorta, or coronary artery configuration.
Defining EMS and ENU dose–response relationships using the Pig-a mutation assay in rats

Abstract In recent years, experimental evidence has accumulated that supports the existence of sublinear dose–response relationships at low doses of DNA reactive mutagens. However, creating the in vivo data necessary to allow for a more detailed dose–response modeling with the currently available tools might not always be practical. The purpose of the current work was to evaluate the utility of the Pig-a gene mutation assay to rapidly identify dose–response relationships for direct acting genotoxicants. The induction of mutations in the peripheral blood of rats was evaluated following 28 days of exposure down to low doses of the direct acting alkylating agents ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) and ethylnitrosourea (ENU). Using statistical modeling based on the 28-day studies, a threshold for mutation induction for EMS was estimated to be 21.9 mg/kg, whereas for the more potent ENU, the threshold was estimated to be 0.88 mg/kg. Comparing mutation frequencies from acute and sub-chronic dosing indicated less than additive dose–response relationships, further confirming the possibility of a threshold dose–response relationship for both compounds. In conclusion, the work presented provides evidence that the Pig-a assay might be a practical alternative to other in vivo mutation assays when assessing dose–response relationships for direct acting mutagens and that an experimental approach using fractionated dosing could be used to substantiate a biological mechanism responsible for the observation of a sublinear dose–response relationship.
Benefits and Costs of Defense in a Neotropical Shrub

Benefits and costs are central to optimality theories of plant defense. Benefit is the gain in fitness to reducing herbivory and cost is the loss in fitness to committing resources to defense. We evaluate the benefits and costs of defense in a neotropical shrub, Psychotria horizontalis. Plants were either exposed to herbivores or protected within a cage of fine mesh in three gardens planted in large light gaps on Barro Colorado Island, Panama. Two cuttings of each of 35 clones were paired based on initial masses and assigned randomly to a garden and to either the exposed or protected treatment. Annual rates of herbivory were 37% for exposed plants and 17% for protected plants. Among the exposed plants, high tannin concentration and tough leaves reduced herbivory. Twenty months after plant- ing, the protected plants had a 10-fold higher growth rate, and 5.5 times more leaf area and dry mass than the protected plants. Twenty-two percent of the protected plants flowered, whereas no exposed plants flowered. Within the protected treatment, both total tannin concentration and leaf toughness varied among clones, which suggests that these traits are heritable. Total tannin concentration, but not toughness, was negatively correlated with growth for protected plants, which implies a cost to producing tannins. High tannin con- centration and tough leaves reduced herbivory, however, these benefits of defense were balanced by the costs such that there were no significant differences in growth among exposed plants. These results are consistent with the hypotheses that there are benefits to being defended, that defense can be costly, and that herbivores act as selective agents in the evolution Qf plant defense.
Synthesis of embedded iron nanoparticles in Fe3C-derived carbons

Abstract Carbide-derived carbons with embedded Fe nanoparticles are synthesized by partial chlorination of iron carbide at 600 °C. Interestingly, the residual Fe studied by X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy show the extraction process does not follow a layer-by-layer extraction process, as proposed in the literature for the chlorination of other carbides. Instead, a large percentage of iron carbide converts to iron (II) and iron (III) chloride nanoparticles, which remain trapped within the resulting nanoporous carbon framework. Further reductive treatment can be used to produce dispersed Fe nanoparticles with an average particle diameter approaching 10 nm.
Crisis Communication Strategies in the Media Coverage of Chemical Accidents

Two studies examine media reports of chemical accident crises to explore the extent to which crisis communication strategies are included. Study 1 found that although reputation repair strategies were rarely included, about 1/4 of the reports included some combination of information-giving strategies attributed to organizational spokespersons. First responders were quoted more frequently than organizational representatives. Study 2 examined follow-up stories associated with the initial reports and revealed that, although reputation repair and information giving strategies appeared more frequently than in Study 1, they were only used in 24% and 60% of the cases, respectively. Overall, organizational spokespersons were not featured prominently in the media reports.
Adaptive selfcalibrating delta-SIGMA modulators

The concept of an adaptive Delta Sigma A/D convertor is introduced. A selfcalibrating adaptive implementation is described. The new scheme appears to be very effective for improving the resolution and the signal-to-noise ratio of delta-sigma modulators which rely on error cancellation to achieve a high signal-to-noise ratio.
The Case of the Tumbling Tumbleweed Multiple Comorbid Conditions and the Use of Supportive Factors

Thus far, the literature in psychotherapy research on the relationship between specific factors and treatment outcome has focused on discrete, well-defined disorders. In contrast, this case study reviews a man who presents with a complex diagnostic picture. As a result, the student clinician drew from the literature examining the role of common factors, specifically of a supportive nature, in psychotherapy outcome. The client exhibited features from a variety of both Axis I and Axis II ailments, including alcohol dependence, sexual masochism, paraphilias, and borderline personality disorder. The challenges of case conceptualizing and treating an individual exhibiting multiple comorbid conditions are presented.
Herpes simplex virus infection stops spontaneous beating of chick heart cells.

PROFOUND modifications in the macromolecular structure of cell membranes and membrane-related functions have been demonstrated on infection with various viruses1,2. For example, shortly after infection with certain herpesviruses, synthesis and insertion of host proteins into plasma membranes cease and new virus-specified proteins begin to appear3,4. These viral proteins differ from the cell membrane proteins in size, electrophoretic mobility, extent of glycosylation and sulphate incorporation3–5. The changes in membrane structure are reflected in altered morphology, antigenic characteristics and contact interactions of herpesvirus-infected cells4,6. They also appear to affect the ion-dependent electrical properties of the cells as shown by alterations in the transmembrane potential of cells infected by herpesviruses in vitro and in vivo7,9. To elucidate further alterations in membrane-related cell functions, as well as virus–cell interactions associated with herpesvirus infection, we are studying the effects of herpes simplex viruses (HSV) type 1 and 2 on chick embryo heart cells, which provide a useful system, particularly when aggregated into spontaneously beating spheroidal clusters10–13. We found that these viruses stopped the spontaneous beating of the cells before cell ‘death’.
Structural and Magnetic Evidence Concerning Spin Crossover in Formamidinate Compounds with Ru25+ Cores

The magnetic and structural properties of two Ru2(DArF)4Cl compounds, where DArF is the anion of a diaryl formamidine, are presented here. The compounds with Ar = p-anisyl and m-anisyl both show temperature dependence of χT (χ = molar magnetic susceptibility), but for different reasons. For the para compound, there is a Boltzmann distribution between a π*3 ground state and a δ*π*2 upper state, and this is confirmed by a temperature dependence of the Ru−Ru bond length: 2.4471(5) A at 23 K and 2.3968(5) A at 300 K. For the meta compound, a δ*π*2 configuration persists over the range of 23−300 K as shown by an invariant Ru−Ru bond length, but the χT drops with decreasing temperature owing to zero-field splitting of a 4B2u ground state.
The heart of IGES

This paper describes the problems and complexity of implementing an interpreter for IGES. IGES (the Initial Graphics Exchange Standard) is an attempt to define a language that can specify geometrical, electrical and mechanical specifications with a uniform syntax. The syntax of IGES is sketched first. This is followed by a short review of the primitives available within IGES. The interior of the interpreter is presented next with particular attention paid to the implementation of the macro language residing inside of IGES.
Chemistry on the Go: Review of Chemistry Apps on Smartphones

Chemistry-related software, or chemistry “apps”, on hand-held and portable touch-controlled computers such as smartphones and iPods are seeing dramatic growth with increasing adoption rates. This review covers about 30 popular and mostly free apps that can be used to learn chemistry and to serve as reference or research tools. The target audience includes students in high school, college, and graduate school, chemical professionals, and teachers.
Depressed mothers’ infants show less negative affect during non-contingent interactions

Abstract Infants of depressed and non-depressed mothers were videotaped interacting with their mothers in the [Nadel, J., Carchon, I., Kervella, C., Marcelli, D., & Reserbat-Plantey, D. (1999). Report: Expectancies for social contingency in 2-month-olds. Developmental Science, 2, 164–173] paradigm which consists of three segments including: (1) a free play, contingent interaction, (2) a non-contingent replay of the mothers’ behavior that had been videotaped during the first segment, and (3) a return to a free play, contingent interaction. As compared to infants of non-depressed mothers, infants of depressed mothers showed less negative change (less increase in frowning) in their behavior during the non-contingent replay segment. This finding was interpreted as the infants of depressed mothers being more accustomed to non-contingent behavior in their mothers, thus experiencing less violation of expectancy in this situation.
High intensity ultrasound increases distensibility of calcific atherosclerotic arteries

Abstract To assess the effect of high intensity ultrasound energy on atherosclerotic arteries, the pressure-volume relation of stenoses in 14 atherosclerotic human cadaver arteries was measured before and after intraarterial application of ultrasound energy. The pressure-volume relation was measured by inflating a 3-mm angioplasty balloon within each artery with use of a syringe equipped with pressure and volume transducers. To minimize potential effects of balloon inflations on compliance, balloon inflation pressure was set at ≤3 atm before ultrasound application. Ultrasound energy was applied by using a titanium wire probe at a frequency of 20 kHz for 2 min. After exposure to ultrasound, arterial distensibility (measured as volume at 1 atm of balloon pressure) increased by a mean value of 82 ± 60 μl. These data suggest that ultrasound energy probably increases the pliability of atherosclerotic lesions by interrupting calcified plaque. This effect may enhance in vivo distensibility and render calcified atherosclerotic lesions more amenable to balloon angioplasty.
Hépatectomies sous laparoscopie

Resume But de l’etude : Realiser une mise au point des indications et des techniques de resections hepatiques sous laparoscopie, et evaluer les resultats de cette technique par une revue de la litterature internationale. Revue de la litterature : Pres de 200 hepatectomies sous laparoscopie ont ete rapportees entre 1991 et 2001. Cela represente 102 resections de tumeurs malignes, et 84 resections de tumeurs benignes. Le taux global de conversion est de 7 % (13/186). Le taux de morbidite est de 16,1 %, dont deux cas d’embolies gazeuses probables (1,1 %). Le taux de mortalite est de 0,54 % (1/186 patients). La duree moyenne d’hospitalisation est de 7,7 jours. Conclusion : Les hepatectomies sont realisables sous laparoscopie, avec un taux de mortalite et de morbidite comparables aux interventions sous laparotomie, pour des patients soigneusement selectionnes. Des etudes prospectives randomisees sont cependant necessaires pour confirmer ces resultats, en particulier pour la resection de metastases ou de tumeurs malignes. Les progres de ces interventions seront probablement lies au developpement de nouvelles techniques et de nouveaux instruments.
Ovarian Function and Histology After X-Ray Irradiation in Albino Rats1

Doses of X-ray from 300 to 1500r were delivered to the ovaries of adult female albino rats. The effects on the structures in the ovary associated with hormonal production and the estrous cycle were observed. Some observations were made on fertility. There was no immediate irregularity in the vaginal cycles after X-irradiation regardless of the dose. Vaginal cycles disappeared progressively earlier with heavier doses. An occasional Graafian follicle or ovum was found after cessation of vaginal cycles, and in the presence of persistently cornified smears. With each higher X-ray dose, the time interval for disappearance of follicles or ova was shortened. A dose of irradiation which would destroy the follicular structures and ova, and yet permit continuation of vaginal cyclic change, was not found. Using the ventral field of exposure and technique described, the MLD50 for the rats was between 1100 and 1200r.
Professionalization: Danger to press freedom and pluralism

Journalism is viewed here as being in danger of becoming a profession, thereby changing the field into a narrow, monolithic, self‐centered fellowship of true believers devoid of outward‐looking and service orientations.
Flame propagation of nano/micron-sized aluminum particles and ice (ALICE) mixtures

Abstract Flame propagation of aluminum–ice (ALICE) mixtures is studied theoretically and experimentally. Both a mono distribution of nano aluminum particles and a bimodal distribution of nano- and micron-sized aluminum particles are considered over a pressure range of 1–10 MPa. A multi-zone theoretical framework is established to predict the burning rate and temperature distribution by solving the energy equation in each zone and matching the temperature and heat flux at the interfacial boundaries. The burning rates are measured experimentally by burning aluminum–ice strands in a constant-volume vessel. For stoichiometric ALICE mixtures with 80 nm particles, the burning rate shows a pressure dependence of r b = aP n , with an exponent of 0.33. If a portion of 80 nm particles is replaced with 5 and 20 μm particles, the burning rate is not significantly affected for a loading density up to 15–25% and decreases significantly beyond this value. The flame thickness of a bimodal-particle mixture is greater than its counterpart of a mono-dispersed particle mixture. The theoretical and experimental results support the hypothesis that the combustion of aluminum–ice mixtures is controlled by diffusion processes across the oxide layers of particles.
Chemical and Thermal Stability of Surface‐Modified Porous Polyethylene Membranes

Abstract In this paper, we describe the surface modification of porous polyethylene by the adsorption of polyelectrolyte mutilayers on plasma‐activated polyethylene surfaces. We use the migration rates of deionized water as an effective alternative to contact angle measurements in order to probe the interfacial energy of the modified surface. The newly acquired surface properties that result from the surface modification are monitored with respect to several key chemical and environmental variables. These variables were chosen so that they will reflect some of the common handling procedures in a laboratory or health care environments, such as exposure to solvents of different pH and polarities, and fluctuations of ambient temperature over an extended period, i.e., “shelf‐life” duration. The stability of these surface properties of the modified membranes is a fundamental requirement for their potential use in a variety of applications involving lateral flow and binding media for bio‐assays. In this paper, ...
Catheter-related focal FDG activity on whole body PET imaging.

Introduction Whole body FDG positron emission tomography (PET) scan is increasingly being used in the management of a variety of cancers and infections. Cancer patients and other very sick patients have central venous catheters, which could be associated with common complications like thrombosis and infections. We describe catheter-related focal FDG uptake on whole body FDG PET scans in 4 patients. Materials and methods Four patients underwent whole body FDG-PET scanning 60 minutes after intravenous injection of F18-FDG (2 for localization of site of infection, 1 for primary cancer site localization, and 1 for restaging of colon cancer). The whole body PET images were compared and correlated with the patients' history, radiology and laboratory tests. Results Focal and intense FDG activity is seen in all 4 patients at the distal end of the intravenous catheter. The average SUV of this activity was 6.3 (n = 3). Catheter-related thrombosis was identified as the cause of FDG activity in 3 patients, whereas catheter-related infection was considered in one patient. Conclusion Focal and intense FDG activity, in relation to the distal end of a central venous catheter, has a benign etiology, usually seen with catheter-related venous thrombosis and can be seen with catheter related infection.
Structure and optical properties of tin oxide films

Abstract In the study, we investigated the relationship between macroscopic and microscopic properties of tin oxide films. Three kinds of tin oxide films were evaluated: (1) amorphous films deposited by thermal evaporation of SnO2 powder; (2) spray-deposited tin oxide films with poor crystallinity (DBDA films); and (3) spray-deposited tin oxide films with high crystallinity (MBTC films). Optical properties of these films were evaluated in terms of the macroscopic properties of TO. X-ray diffraction studies for morphologic investigation and FTIR spectra for bond properties were also evaluated to define the micro-macro properties relationship.
Developmental timing of the effects of maternal care on gene expression and epigenetic regulation of hormone receptor levels in female rats

Maternal care experienced during postnatal development has enduring effects on neuroendocrine function and behavior. Previous studies in rats have illustrated the effect of maternal licking/grooming (LG) on hormone receptors and maternal behavior of adult female offspring associated with altered DNA methylation. However, the developmental timing of these effects, which provide insight into the cellular and molecular pathways through which early experience alters later behavior, had not been explored. Here, we demonstrate the developmental emergence of these outcomes and use cross-fostering to identify sensitive periods for these effects. Estrogen receptor (ER)α and ERβ mRNA levels within the medial preoptic area (MPOA) of the hypothalamus were increased by postnatal day (PN)21 in female offspring of high LG dams; LG-associated increases in oxytocin receptor mRNA levels were observed beyond the weaning period. Quantification of ERα-immunoreactivity indicated a high degree of neuroanatomical specificity of LG effects within the MPOA that were observed by PN6. Reduced DNA methylation and histone 3 lysine 9 tri-methylation and increased histone 3 lysine 4 tri-methylation at the ERα gene promoter (Esr1) were detected at PN21 in high LG female offspring. Latency to engage in maternal behavior toward donor pups was significantly shorter among high LG females. Cross-fostering revealed that maternal sensitization and MPOA ERα levels are sensitive to maternal care experienced before but not after PN10. Differential windows of plasticity were identified for ERβ and oxytocin receptor mRNA levels. These studies contribute significantly to our understanding of the molecular, neurobiological, and behavioral pathways through which variation in maternal behavior is transmitted from one generation to the next.
Sexual imprinting, learning and speciation

Learned mate preferences may play an important role in speciation. Sexual imprinting is a process whereby mate preferences are affected by learning at a very young age, usually using a parent as the model. We suggest that while the origins of learning appear to lie in the advantages of individual recognition, sexual imprinting results from selection for recognition of conspecifics. This is because efficient early learning about one’s own species is favoured in the presence of heterospecifics. If different species are hybridizing, both sexual imprinting and learning to avoid heterospecifics during adulthood promote assortative mating and hence speciation. As a result of sexual imprinting, speciation may also be completed in allopatry when divergence between populations is sufficient to prevent interbreeding when the populations reunite, even in the absence of genetic evolution of mate preference. The role of behaviour and learning in completing the speciation process is relatively overlooked. In particular the evolution of sexual imprinting as a result of selection against hybridization warrants more study.
Rapid and direct quantification of longitudinal relaxation time (T 1 ) in look-locker sequences using an adaptive neural network

Fast and accurate measurement of the longitudinal relaxation time, T1, has become increasingly important in quantitative estimates of such tissue physiological parameters as perfusion, capillary permeability, and tissue interstitial space using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI). The Look-Locker (LL) sequence provides accurate T 1 estimates, with the advantages of reduced acquisition time, and a wide range of sampling times post-inversion. In this study, an Adaptive Neural Network (ANN) was trained and employed as an unbiased estimator of T 1 . The ANN estimator was trained by simulating the LL signal at different levels of SNR. The results of its application to the simulated data were compared with T 1 maps estimated by conventional methods (Simplex method with non-negative least-squares fitting). Experimental results of the ANN method for 19 animals were also compared to the the conventional method, and with values of T 1 reported in literature. The ANN and conventional methods produce estimates that are highly correlated in normal (r=0.957, p ≪ 0.0001) and tumorous (r = 0.965, p ≪ 0.0001) tissues. It is concluded that the ANN method has very good potential to be used to produce a fast and accurate T 1 map in tissue, and thus to estimate from LL data in DCE studies the temporal change in tissue R1 that occurs after administration of contrast agent, a measure that plays an important role in quantification of physiological parameters using MRI.