cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Workforce agility through employee involvement

This paper develops and empirically tests a theoretical model of the impact of several workforce management practices on workforce agility. We apply an employee involvement lens to examine a range of practices, viewing them as sets, rather than a hodgepodge of sporadic individual practices. Beyond examining which sets of practices are more or less effective, we develop a unique conceptualization of how these practices interact to promote workforce agility. Our resulting hierarchical model envisages lower-order practices as providing a supportive environment, upon which higher-order practices build, to foster workforce agility. Empirical testing supports this model.
Reduction of telomeric signals in murine melanoma and human breast cancer cell lines treated with 3'-azido-2'-3'-dideoxythymidine

The purpose of this study was to determine, using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), whether treatment of cancer cells with 3'-azido-2'-3'-dideoxythymidine (AZT) has any effect on telomere length as determined by the telomeric signal intensity. To do so, we treated a metastatic murine melanoma cell line (K-1735 clone X-21) and a human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) with three concentrations of AZT for 72 h at 37uC. FISH preparations processed using an all-human telomeric DNA probe showed a significantly reduced, concentration-dependent telomeric signal intensity in interphase and metaphase spreads of AZT-treated cells as compared with the signal intensity in untreated controls, which showed no reduction. We conclude from these preliminary results that AZT has the potential of targeting the telomeric ends of chromosomes in cancer cells and promoting cell death and could well be tested along with other chemotherapy drugs given to cancer patients for this purpose.
Unexpected change in charge transfer behavior in a cobalt(II) porphyrin-fullerene conjugate that stabilizes radical ion pair states.

Two cobalt(II) porphyrin−C60 malonate-linked conjugates, the mono-connected Co1 and the bis-connected trans-2 isomer Co3, have been synthesized for the first time either by direct cyclopropanation with the precursor malonate Co4 or by metalation of the bisadduct H23. For the investigation of the interaction between the porphyrin donor and fullerene acceptor within these dyads, electrochemical and photophysical investigations have been carried out. Compared to Zn3 and trans-2 bisadduct 7, the first reduction of the fullerene moiety within Co3 becomes easier (40 mV in dichloromethane and 20 mV in benzonitrile), indicating significant interactions between the π-system of the fullerene and the d-orbitals of the central Co atom. Compared to the Co complexes 9, Co4, and Co1, the first oxidation of Co3 is considerably shifted to more positive potentials, if benzonitrile instead of dichloromethane is used as solvent. At the same time, the oxidation is no longer centered on the Co(II) center but on the porphyrin m...
Community-based alternatives for justice-involved individuals with severe mental illness: Diversion, problem-solving courts, and reentry

article i nfo Available online 9 October 2012 Purpose: Adults with severe mental illness are overrepresented in the criminal justice system, and traditional criminal justice processing has not led to meaningful improvement in recidivism and other relevant outcomes. Fortunately, there has been considerable growth in community-based alternatives to standard prosecution for justice-involved adults with severe mental illness. The purpose of this article is to examine three such community-based alternatives – diversion, problem-solving courts, and reentry into the community – and offer best practice recommendations for developing, implementing, and refining these programs. Methods: The literature relating to the impetus and rationale for community-based alternatives, an organizing framework for conceptualizing the range of community-based alternatives, and the empirical evidence for community-based alternatives was reviewed. Results:Existing research on diversion, problem-solving courts, and reentry is generally inconsistent and lacking in uniformity. Although some community-based interventions have a great deal of empirical support, other interventions have received very little research attention. Conclusions: Research suggests that some community-based alternatives are an effective strategy for adults with severe mental illness, but more empirical research is needed before most community-based interventions can be described as empirically supported.
Predictions of anisotropic superconductivity in UIr3 and UPt3

Abstract Anisotropic singlet state superconductivity is predicted for UIr3 (an itinerant non-heavy fermion intermetallic) as was done earlier for UPt3 (perhaps the prototype heavy fermion system). In both, this arises from strong Uf-Xd hybridization which yields a highly anisotropic (i) Fermi surface (now confirmed by dHvA experiments of Taillefer et al. on UPt3), (ii) electron-phonon interaction, and (iii) superconducting energy gap.
The Gram-staining behavior of spermatozoa.

Der Einfluss der Vorbehandlung auf das Gramfarbeverhalten menschlicher Spermatozoen wurde untersucht. Die Membranhulle des Spermienkopfes sowie auch die Fibrillen des Halses weisen ein fur bestimmte Keratine charakteristisches farberisches Verhalten auf. Vorbehandlung mit Reduktionsmitteln lasst eine Grampositive, Vorbehandlung mit Oxydationsmitteln eine Gram-negative Farbung resultieren. Einige aus diesem Verhalten sich ergebende Moglichkeiten werden diskutiert.
N-donor effects on carboxylate binding in mononuclear iron(II) complexes of a sterically hindered benzoate ligand.

Using the sterically hindered 2,6-dimesitylbenzoate ligand Mes2ArCO2-, a series of mononuclear Fe(II) carboxylate complexes has been obtained with the general formula (Mes2ArCO2)2Fe(base)2 (base = 1-methylimidazole (MeIm), pyridine (Py), 2-picoline (2-Pic), 2,5-lutidine (2,5-Lut), 2,6-lutidine (2,6-Lut), (base)2 = N,N,N‘,N‘-tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA)). For the monodentate base adducts, single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies revealed several different structural types ranging from distorted tetrahedral to distorted octahedral that correlate with the degree of α-substitution of the N-donors. Increasing α-substitution leads to the lengthening of the Fe−N bond, which in turn results in a change in carboxylate binding mode from η1 to η2. We surmise that this change is due to an electrostatic effect and is driven by increasing the Lewis acidity of the Fe center. Such a simple process for inducing carboxylate shifts could play a critical role in biological systems.
Polysymptomatic syndromes and autonomic reactivity to nonfood stressors in individuals with self-reported adverse food reactions.

This study compared symptom reports and cardiovascular reactivity of a group of 24 individuals recruited from the community who reported a cognitive or emotional symptom caused by at least one food (food-sensitivity reporters, FSR) vs those of 15 controls (C) without a history of food, chemical, drug, or inhalant sensitivities. The main findings were: 1) FSR indicated sensitivities not only to foods, but also to environmental chemicals, drugs, and natural inhalants, as well as significantly more symptoms than C in multiple systems; 2) more FSR than C noted recent state depression and anxiety, as well as higher trait anxiety on the Bendig form of the Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale; 3) however, on multiple regression analysis, not only depression, but also the number of sensitivities (foods, chemicals, drugs, inhalants), accounted for part of the variance in total number of symptoms (38 and 17%, respectively), whereas none of the affective measures accounted for any of the variance in total number of sensitivities over all subjects; 4) after controlling for depression and anxiety, FSR still showed a trend toward poorer performance on a timed mental arithmetic task (p = 0.16); and 5) FSR and C showed opposite patterns of heart rate change to two different stressful tasks (mental arithmetic and isometric exercise) (group by task interaction, p < 0.05). The data are discussed in terms of a time-dependent sensitization (TDS) process that predicts a cross-sensitizing and cross-reactive role for xenobiotic agents (e.g., foods, chemicals, drugs, and inhalants) and for salient psychological stress in the expression of psychophysiological dysfunctions of FSR. As in other chronically ill populations, negative affect in food-sensitive individuals may explain greater symptom reporting, but not necessarily account for the illness itself. For either a food or a psychological stimulus to begin to elicit sensitized responses, e.g., marked physiological differences from C, FSR may require multiple, intermittent exposures spaced over 5-28 days rather than on only 1 day.
How focused identities can help brands navigate a changing media landscape

Abstract In today's rapidly changing and fast-paced media landscape, consumer attention is a rare and fractured commodity. Within this environment, marketing and branding must serve customers who are attending to multiple media simultaneously, while brand placement moves brands outside of advertisements and into incidental exposure. Some brands offer a strong, consistent, and focused brand identity on all consumer-facing fronts, from advertising to event promotion and retail environments. These brands can retain their effectiveness in this new media reality, as mere exposure is all that's required to activate their rich brand identity. At the same time, brand exposure effects illuminate the vast role of nonconscious attention and processing in consumer cognition and behavior. New research shows that even incidental exposure to a brand can alter consumer behavior in manners consistent with brand identity, producing effects which may persist outside of marketing contexts and occur even when the product is not purchased or consumed. These findings suggest that strong brand identities can retain effectiveness in the modern media environment, but further work is needed to explore their multi-dimensional effects on consumer life.
An in vivo evaluation of a novel spiral cut flexible ureteral stent.

Objective The flow characteristics, ureteral conformance, and histopathologic changes of a novel spiral cut flexible ureteral stent (Percuflex Helical, Boston Scientific, Boston, MA) were evaluated in vivo in an acute and chronic porcine model. Materials and Methods Flow characteristics and ureteral conformance of the novel stent were determined in 6 acute and 6 chronic swine models and compared with a control ureteral stent (Percuflex Plus, Boston Scientific). The flow characteristics were determined in vivo after ligating the renal vessels and via a nephrostomy tube delivering a standard rate of 0.9% saline at 35 cm H2O. Flows in the unobstructed ureter, normal stent, intraluminally obstructed stent, extraluminal obstructed stent, and both intraluminally and extraluminally obstructed conditions were determined. In the chronic animals, flow was determined at day 10, with the stent in place and immediately after stent removal. Conformance and hydronephrosis was assessed on pyelograms. Histopathologic changes were also evaluated in the chronic animals. Results The acute and chronic flow characteristics in the novel stent were equivalent to the control stent. Size and weight of the kidney, degree of hydronephrosis, stent migration, and presence of urinary tract infection were also similar between the test and control stents. There were no differences seen in histopathologic grading or degree of encrustation in either stent. The novel stent appeared to conform better to the shape of the ureter in both acute and chronic animals. Conclusion The novel helical stent appears to drain as well as a standard stent and causes no increased degree of histopathologic changes in the ureter.
Common statistical and research design problems in manuscripts submitted to high-impact medical journals

Background: To assist educators and researchers in improving the quality of medical research, we surveyed the editors and statistical reviewers of high-impact medical journals to ascertain the most frequent and critical statistical errors in submitted manuscripts. Findings: The Editors-in-Chief and statistical reviewers of the 38 medical journals with the highest impact factor in the 2007 Science Journal Citation Report and the 2007 Social Science Journal Citation Report were invited to complete an online survey about the statistical and design problems they most frequently found in manuscripts. Content analysis of the responses identified major issues. Editors and statistical reviewers (n = 25) from 20 journals responded. Respondents described problems that we classified into two, broad themes: A. statistical and sampling issues and B. inadequate reporting clarity or completeness. Problems included in the first theme were (1) inappropriate or incomplete analysis, including violations of model assumptions and analysis errors, (2) uninformed use of propensity scores, (3) failing to account for clustering in data analysis, (4) improperly addressing missing data, and (5) power/sample size concerns. Issues subsumed under the second theme were (1) Inadequate description of the methods and analysis and (2) Misstatement of results, including undue emphasis on p-values and incorrect inferences and interpretations. Conclusions: The scientific quality of submitted manuscripts would increase if researchers addressed these common design, analytical, and reporting issues. Improving the application and presentation of quantitative methods in scholarly manuscripts is essential to advancing medical research.
Near‐infrared Fluorescence Spectroscopy Detects Alzheimer's Disease In Vitro

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence spectroscopy could be used to detect Alzheimer's disease (AD) by brain tissue autofluorescence. Unfixed temporal cortex specimens from AD cases and age-matched, non-AD controls were frozen at autopsy and then thawed just prior to spectral measurement. Spectra of intrinsic tissue fluorescence induced by 647 nm light were recorded from 650 to 850 nm. We used principal component analysis of the tissue spectra from 17 AD cases and 5 non-AD control cases in a calibration study to establish a diagnostic algorithm. Retrospectively applied to the calibration set, the algorithm correctly classified 23 of 24 specimens. In a prospective study of 19 specimens from 5 AD brains and 2 non-AD control brains, 3 of the 4 control specimens and all AD specimens were correctly diagnosed. Both the excitation light used and the measured brain tissue autofluorescence are at NIR wavelengths that can propagate through skull and overlying tissue. Therefore, our results demonstrate an optical spectroscopic technique that carries direct molecular level information about disease. This is the first step toward a clinical tool that has the potential to be applied to the noninvasive diagnosis of AD in living patients.
Polymer electrolytes: The importance of ion-ion interactions in diffusion dominated behavior

Abstract Monte Carlo simulations combined with analytic results based on the dynamically disordered hopping model are used to show that even in the presence of ion-ion interactions, the conductivity of polymer electrolytes is diffusion dominated. Coulomb interactions between charge carriers do result in some collective correlations that affect the conductivity, as evidenced by deviations from the Nernst Einstein equation, but the action of these interactions on the diffusivity overshadows these effects. Furthermore, these results show that renewal limited behavior (the diffusion coefficient depends linearly on the host's renewal rate) can persist even in the presence of these interactions. These studies help resolve the role ion-ion interactions play in renewal dominated behavior.
Dihedral rigid molecule in crystal engineering for optimized phase-matchable SHG: DNBB

It is important to control a polarization anisotropy, thus, a molecular alignment in obtaining such a crystal that can exhibit optimized phase-matchable second harmonic generation ( SHG ). Along with this view, we designed a novel dihedral rigid molecule which has two nitroaniline moieties rigidly connected each other through two adjacent sp3 carbons. We synthesized the molecules so designed and examined their crystals in SHG activities and phase-matching characteristics by a convenient powder method with a Nd:YAG laser. It has been found that one of crystals, namely, 3,9-dinitro-5a,6, ha, 12-tetrahydro[1,4]benzoxadino[3 ,2-bJ][1,4]- benzoxadine ( DNBB ) crystal manifests larger phase-matchable SHG than N-(4-nitrophenyl)-L-prolinol ( NPP ) crystal so far known as the typical efficient phase-matchable organic crystal. DNBB crystal has been shown to possess much improved material properties ; high thermal stability, distinguished hardness, insolubility to water, no sublimation, and high registivity to optical damage, for device applications in comparison with the crystals of p-nitroaniline derivatives reported so far.
Generating Thrust with a Biologically-Inspired Robotic Ribbon Fin

We present experimental results of thrust produced by a robotic propulsor, the design of which is inspired by the ribbon fin of the South American black ghost knifefish (Apteronotus albifrons). This remarkably nimble fish moves by oscillating its ribbon fin rays out of phase and thereby passing a traveling wave along the fin's length. Combinations of thrust from the ribbon fin and body rolls produced by the two pectoral fins enable the black ghost to swim in nearly any direction without bending its body. The fish's agile locomotor system is tightly integrated with its omnidirectional, active sensing system. The robotic ribbon fin has eight individually actuated metal rays which are linked by a thin latex sheet. The experimental results demonstrate the effect of varying the propulsive wave's frequency, amplitude and length on the robotic fin's thrust production. We found that thrust production peaks at particular combinations of the three variables and that the fin could produce steady forward thrust, despite the relatively small number of rays. The robotic ribbon fin has potential application as a propulsor for future underwater vehicles, in addition to being a valuable scientific instrument in understanding the swimming mechanics of the black ghost and similar fish.
On the problem of computer-aided structure identification: some experimental observations and resulting guidelines

This paper summarizes an approach to the problem of structure identification which was previously suggested by the authors and elaborated into a fully computerized procedure ( Klir, 1976 , Klir and Uyttenhove, 1976 , Klir and Uyttenhove, 1976 ). A structure system is viewed as a set of coupled relations (probabilistic, in the general case) which are projections of an overall relation. The term “structure identification” refers to the problem of finding, at each level of structure refinement, structure systems which conform best to the given relation. Results of some new simulation experiments regarding the structure identification procedure are described and discussed in the paper. These results are supposed to help the user (modeller) to interpret the various parameters associated with the procedure properly. The use of the experimental results is illustrated by examples taken from the areas of computer performance evaluation and social research.
An algebraic approach to multiresolution analysis

The notion of a weak multiresolution analysis is defined over an arbitrary field in terms of cyclic modules for a certain affine group ring. In this setting the basic properties of weak multiresolution analyses are established, including characterizations of their submodules and quotient modules, the existence and uniqueness of reduced scaling equations, and the existence of wavelet bases. These results yield some sta.ndard facts on classical multiresolution analyses over the rea.ls as special cases, but provide a different perspective by not relying on orthogonality or topology. Connections with other areas of algebra and possible further directions are mentioned.
Use of senior centers as a moderator of stress related distress among Latino elders.

Abstract Little is known about the moderating effects of community services on psychological distress among Latino elders. This study explores the use of senior centers as an intervention strategy to moderate the harmful impact of stress on psychological distress. The study was conducted using data from the 1988 National Survey of Hispanic Elderly People (N = 2,299). To examine the direct and moderating effects of the use of senior centers on the relationship between stress and psychological distress we applied multiple regression analysis to an initial model, a direct effect model, and a moderating model. The results indicated that, under stressful life situations, respondents who used senior centers experienced lower levels of psychological distress than those who did not. Implications of the findings for senior centers and for further research are discussed.
Genetic analysis of larval survival and larval growth of two populations of Leptinotarsa decemlineata on tomato

The genetics of adaptation to tomato in Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) were investigated in reciprocal F 1 , F 2 , and backcross populations generated from crosses between beetles from a tomato adapted population and from a population that was poorly adapted to tomato. Larvae from the parent and test populations were reared on tomato for four days, after which survivorship and larval weights were recorded. Most results indicate that differences in larval growth and survival on tomato between the parent populations are largely determined by autosomal, polygenic mechanisms, the inheritance of which involves a significant dominance component. However, results from F 2 crosses are not consistent with this conclusion. A significant difference in larval weights, but not in survival, between reciprocal F 1 populations in an analysis of combined data from four separate experiments suggests that maternal cytoplasmic effects may contribute to differences in larval performance on tomato between the adapted and unadapted populations. The unusual results obtained from F 2 crosses in this study are not atypical of results from previous studies of the genetics of adaptation to host plants by the Colorado potato beetle. Host plant adaptation by Colorado potato beetles may therefore involve unusual genetic mechanisms that are not easily assessed by classical Mendelian analysis.
Fluorescent X-ray excitation efficiencies

K-series fluorescent x-ray emission was msasured as a function of primary wavelength and intensity to give the excitation efficiency E/sub i/ sub z/ for founteen elements from titanium to silver. Over-all standard deviations were estimated to be between 1 and 5%. Comparison with values calculated from early equations is in fairly good agreement but shows the measured values to be less than calculated values for low atomic numbers and higher for high atomic numbers. (auth)
Toxic Shock-Like Syndrome in Hens and Its Relationship to Shell-Less Eggs

Abstract Foreign materials were inserted into the hens’ uteri and anti-inflammatory and immune suppressant drugs were used to determine possible causes of shell-less eggs. The presence of foreign shell-membranes and tampons in the uteri (shell glands) of hens caused a toxic shock-like syndrome (TSLS). Primary clinical signs were high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and death. The presence of other materials, including inflated rubber balloons, had no adverse affect on the hens. Calcium carbonate deposits occurred on the surface of the balloons but not on other material inserted into the uteri. Injection of anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs did not increase shell weight in hens laying shell-less eggs. The hen's reproductive system was found to be sensitive in varying degrees to different types of foreign materials; thus, the avian female might serve as an animal model for studying toxic shock syndrome.
Nanoscale Scaffolding Domains within the Postsynaptic Density Concentrate Synaptic AMPA Receptors

Scaffolding molecules at the postsynaptic membrane form the foundation of excitatory synaptic transmission by establishing the architecture of the postsynaptic density (PSD), but the small size of the synapse has precluded measurement of PSD organization in live cells. We measured the internal structure of the PSD in live neurons at approximately 25 nm resolution using photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM). We found that four major PSD scaffold proteins were each organized in distinctive ∼80 nm ensembles able to undergo striking changes over time. Bidirectional PALM and single-molecule immunolabeling showed that dense nanodomains of PSD-95 were preferentially enriched in AMPA receptors more than NMDA receptors. Chronic suppression of activity triggered changes in PSD interior architecture that may help amplify synaptic plasticity. The observed clustered architecture of the PSD controlled the amplitude and variance of simulated postsynaptic currents, suggesting several ways in which PSD interior organization may regulate the strength and plasticity of neurotransmission.
Quinones as antimycobacterial agents.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a serious worldwide health threat, killing almost 3 million people per year. Other mycobacterial species, especially Mycobacterium avium, are emerging pathogens in the immunocompromised population, most notably AIDS patients. These nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous in the environment, and naturally resistant to many disinfection procedures. Treatment options are limited, and no new antibiotics have been developed against mycobacteria since the 1970s. There is a desperate need for new biocides and antibiotics to prevent and treat mycobacterial infections. A small aromatic compound library has been screened for effectiveness in growth inhibition or killing of mycobacteria. Four species, representing the M. tuberculosis complex, the slow-growing NTM, and the rapid-growing NTM were used. Active compounds had minimal inhibitory concentrations as low as 12.5 μg/mL, with the active component being a quinone. The primarily bactericidal activity observed represents a unique mechanism of action. A fluorescent assay involving M. smegmatis expressing gfp was analyzed as a rapid assay for predicting inhibitory activity, but failed to predict activity well. Our compounds may have significant utility as soluble biocides against mycobacteria and other hardy nosocomial pathogens.
Propagation of centimeter and millimeter radio waves at small grazing angles: The model of multiple screen diffraction

Specific features of the microwave propagation over a disturbed sea surface at small grazing angles are studied numerically in the approximation of multiple Fresnel diffraction by semiplanes. We consider two cases: 1) the case of very small grazing angles and low altitudes of the observation points over the sea surface and 2) the case of moderately small grazing angles where the asymptotic approximation of the Fresnel integral is applicable. It is shown that such a model permits one to explain, in particular, the high field-intensity levels and fluctuation characteristics observed at observation-point altitudes comparable with the sea-wave height.
Infant monkey heart rate: Habituation and effects of social substitutes

The heart rates of four infant monkeys that habitually clung to terry-cloth towels were measured by frequency modulation (FM) telemetry while the animals were (1) alone in an unfamiliar room, (2) in a second unfamiliar room with a towel available, and (3) in the second room without a towel. The absence of the towel in the room in which it was sometimes available produced the highest heart rate and the presence of the towel produced the lowest heart rate. Under all conditions, heart rate decreased within sessions and over repeated exposures.
Sex, Sin, and the Church: The Dilemma of Homosexuality

A parallel is suggested between the way blacks have been treated in this country with the way some people view homosexuality. A critique of the origins of the homosexuality taboo and of the argument that homosexual persons are uniquely pathological follows. Though the Judeo-Christian tradition seems to have played a negative role in the past, the contemporary church, in concert with other institutions, can generate a moral force to help overcome homophobia.
Cephalometric analysis of families with dominantly inherited Crouzon syndrome: an aid to diagnosis in family studies.

Crouzon syndrome (CS) is an autosomal dominant condition comprising orbital proptosis, midfacial hypoplasia, premature sutural synostosis, and altered proportions of bone lengths in the hands. In families the CS trait is highly variable. Several cases of affected sibs born to unaffected parents have been explained by germinal mosaicism. We hypothesized that cephalometric and metacarpophalangeal analysis may help to classify affected and unaffected subjects within families when clinical diagnosis is difficult. Posterior-anterior and lateral cephalometric radiographs and hand films were taken of 10 CS patients and 18 unaffected relatives. Sixty-two craniofacial and 19 hand linear and angular measurements were made on each subject and standardized by conversion to z-scores using published normal standards. Ten craniofacial variables were selected for use in a stepwise forward discriminant function analysis to develop an equation which could be used to discriminate CS patients from normal subjects. A two-group discriminant function using four craniofacial variables and one hand variable correctly classified the CS patients and relatives 100 % of the time. The results suggest that relatively few facial variables are needed to differentiate most cases of CS but the addition of one or more hand variables may increase the sensitivity. DNA testing is necessary to adequately demonstrate incomplete penetrance in CS, but pretesting subjects for molecular studies using these methods may improve results. Am. J. Med. Genet. 77:405–411, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
47 AMP DEAMINASE AND THYMIDINE KINASE DEFICIENCIES IN A CLONALLY ISOLATED DERIVATIVE OF MOUSE S49 CELLS

A mutant clone of murine S49 cells, DTB6, was isolated in a single step from mutagenized wild type cells by virtue of its resistance to 1 mM thymidine and 1mM dibutyryl cyclic AMP. In comparative growth rate experiments, DTB6 cells were considerably less sensitive than parental cells to the growth inhibitory effects of thymidine and thymidine analogs, but surprisingly were equally sensitive to dibutyryl cyclic AMP. Conversely, DTB6 cells were much more sensitive to the cytotoxic effects of either adenine or adenosine-EHNA. This supersensitivity of DTB6 cells to growth inhibition by adenine could be ameliorated by the addition of hypoxanthine to the culture medium. The complex growth phenotype of the mutant cells could be attributed to a 60% deficiency in AMP deaminase activity and a complete absence of thymidine kinase activity in the mutant cells. Revertants of DTB6 cells possessed wild type levels of AMP deaminase activity but remained deficient in thymidine kinase activity, while another revertant of DTB6 cells expressed 11% of the wild type thymidine kinase level but did not perceptibly change its AMP deaminase activity. The ability to isolate single step mutants with two seemingly independent biochemical abnormalities raises the speculation that there may be some link between cellular functions responsible for purine nucleotide and thymidine metabolism.
Debunking some misconceptions about nanotoxicology.

Nanotechnology is currently undergoing an impressive expansion in material science research and development of systems that have novel properties due to their small size. Most of the research efforts have been focused on applications, while the implications efforts (i.e., environmental health and safety) have lagged behind. As a consequence, the success of nanotechnology will require assurances that the products being developed are safe from an environmental, health, and safety standpoint. These concerns have led to a debate among governmental agencies and advocacy groups on whether implementation of special regulations should be required for commercialization of products containing nanomaterials. Therefore the assessments of nanomaterial-related health risks must be accurate and verifiable. A mechanism for conducting well-designed toxicology studies includes rigorous attention to nanoparticle physicochemical characterization, as well as consideration of potential routes of exposure, justification of nano...
Photoemission energy level measurements of sorbed gases on titanium

Abstract Energy distributions at hν =21.2 eV show the energy levels and level widths of sorbed gases (H 2 , N 2 , CO, CO 2 and O 2 ) on Ti. CO and CO 2 appear to dissociate into Ti/0 + Ti/C upon adsorption. Exposure to ⪆ 10 −4 Torr sec of H 2 and O 2 results in the formation of Ti compounds on the surface.
Technetium-99m labeled p-aminohippuric acid analogues: renal function agents.

A number of p-aminohippuric acid analogues were synthesized in order to develop clinically useful 99mTc-labeled radiopharmaceuticals for evaluation of renal function measurements. Stable 99mTc-labeled complexes were formed at pH 5.7 using a Sn(ll) reduction method with all derivatives. The newly synthesized complexes were screened utilizing biodistribution studies in small animals. All complexes were excreted via the GU tract within 60 min post iv administration, with no significant activity in Gl tract and liver. The [99mTc]methyl-PAHIDA complex showed optimal biodistribution among these analogues. Further investigation is needed to determine if these derivatives may be used to replace [131l]o-iodohippuric acid for the evaluation of renal function.
Effects of mineral aerosols on the summertime climate of southwest Asia: Incorporating subgrid variability in a dust emission scheme

[1] Improvements in modeling mineral aerosols over southwest Asia are made to the dust scheme in a regional climate model by representing subgrid variability of both wind speed and surface roughness length. The new module quantifies wind variability by using model meteorology while assuming that wind speed follows a Gaussian distribution. More specifically, wind variability is approximated by dry convective eddies within the planetary boundary layer, forced by sensible heat fluxes at the surface. Incorporating subgrid variability of wind increases aerosol optical depth (AOD) over the region by nearly 35% while reducing incoming shortwave radiation by an additional 5–10 W/m2. Likewise, the dust scheme is modified to include the variability of surface roughness length over southwest Asia. Here an empirical distribution of roughness length for each grid cell is calculated based on the USGS's 4 km resolution land cover data set. However, incorporating roughness length variability does not significantly alter dust emissions over the region due to the relatively homogeneous land cover conditions. Nevertheless, including spatial variability for wind results in aerosol optical depth values closer to observational data sets, particularly MISR, which performs better than MODIS over this region. However, RegCM3's dust model still underestimates AOD over southwest Asia. In addition to improvements made in RegCM3's dust model, this work examines the effects of mineral aerosols on the mean monthly, surface summertime climate of southwest Asia. It is shown that dust emissions reduce average summertime surface temperatures by approximately 0.5°C while attenuating shortwave incident radiation by nearly 25 W/m2. Thus, the emission of dust is an important surface process in shaping the summertime climate over southwest Asia. However, both a warm bias in surface temperatures and overestimation of incoming shortwave radiation still exist in RegCM3 and need to be further addressed.
Factors controlling the major ion chemistry of streams in the blue ridge and valley and ridge physiographic provinces of Virginia and Maryland

The factors controlling the chemistry of 69 low-order streams in the Blue Ridge and Valley and Ridge physiographic provinces of Virginia and Maryland were studied over a 13-month period. Principal component analysis was used to examine regional patterns in stream chemistry and to examine the degree to which the chemistry of low-order streams is controlled by the bedrock upon which they flow. Streams clustered into regionally isolated groups, strongly related to bedrock type, with SO2−4 and HCO−3 the chemical variables of most importance. Sulphate concentrations appear to be strongly controlled by climate and hydrology, and sorption in the soils within the watershed. Much of the atmospherically derived SO2−4 accumulates in watersheds during the growing season and is later flushed out. Weathering reactions were found to be particularly important in the production of HCO−3, accounting for 91 per cent on an annual basis, and export of divalent cations from these watersheds, accounting for 48–50 per cent on an annual basis. About half of non-anthropogenic Na+ was derived from weathering of silicates, whereas nearly all K+ was identified with leaching by SO2−4. Water chemistry was strongly related to the rock type in the watershed and the weatherability of the component minerals. Rock type is not a randomly distributed function; instead, it is controlled by geologic factors that result in clusters of similar rock types in a given region. When planning large synoptic studies, it is extremely important to consider that a sampling scheme based on random sampling of a non-randomly distributed function May, not provide the most accurate representation of the variables of interest. Instead, a hierarchical sampling scheme May, be indicated. Our results also suggest that, although one sample in time May, be sufficient to characterize the primary geochemical factors controlling stream chemistry throughout the year, it May, not be sufficient to detect subtle, flow-related alterations in chemistry.
CoMFA analysis of tgDHFR and rlDHFR based on antifolates with 6–5 fused ring system using the all-orientation search (AOS) routine and a modified cross-validated r2-guided region selection (q2-GRS) routine and its initial application

We report the development of CoMFA analysis models that correlate the 3D chemical structures of 80 compounds with 6-5 fused ring system synthesized in our laboratory and their inhibitory potencies against tgDHFR and rlDHFR. In addition to conventional CoMFA analysis, we used two routines available in the literature aimed at the optimization of CoMFA: all-orientation search (AOS) and cross-validated r2-guided region selection (q2-GRS) to further optimize the models. During this process, we identified a problem associated with q2-GRS routine and modified using two strategies. Thus, for the inhibitory activity against each enzyme (tgDHFR and rlDHFR), five CoMFA models were developed using the conventional CoMFA, AOS optimized CoMFA, the original q2-GRS optimized CoMFA and the modified q2-GRS optimized CoMFA using the first and the second strategy. In this study, we demonstrate that the modified q2-GRS routines are superior to the original routine. On the basis of the steric contour maps of the models, we designed four new compounds in the 2,4-diamino-5-methyl-6-phenylsulfanyl-substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine series. As predicted, the new compounds were potent and selective inhibitors of tgDHFR. One of them, 2,4-Diamino-5-methyl-6-(2′,6′-dimethylphenylthio)pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine, is the first 6-5 fused ring system compound with nanomolar tgDHFR inhibitory activity. The HCl salt of this compound was also prepared to increase solubity. Both forms of the drug were tested in vivo in a T. gondii infection mouse model. The results indicate that both forms were active with the HCl salt significantly more potent than the free base.
A system for developing tablet pc applications for education

We describe a new system for building Tablet PC-based classroom software. The system, called SLICE, is built for extensibility, using a unique "explicit state" model.Applications developed thus far include presentation, classroom interaction, shared code review, and exam grading.The paper presents an overview of the system and describes these four applications. It then explains the extensibility model, showing how users can add new features.
Extreme Sensitivity in Trace Element Detection

A technique is demonstrated which can detect extremely low levels of trace elements. This technique uses multicolor, selective multiphoton ionization of a trace impurity species followed by ion-induced nucleation in a supersaturated vapor, which allows the detection of single ions at atmospheric pressures. The combination of these two processes has the potential for use in detection of a wide range of atmospheric contaminants at extremely low levels. This technique is demonstrated by the detection of mercury atoms at a concentration of less than 1 part per 1014 particles.
Behavior genetics of audiogenic seizures in DBA/2J and Rb-1 mice.

Susceptibility to audiogenic seizures (AGS) was studied in DBA/2J (D), Rb-1 (Rb), F1, F2, D×F1, and Rb×F1 mice at selected ages from 18 to 60 days of age. Sixty F1 mice were tested for AGS at varying ages from 18 to 40 days. None showed an AGS. Approximately 25% of the F2, 50% of the Rb×F1 backcross, and 5% of the D×F1 backcross mice were susceptible at all ages tested. Data for the Rb-1 mice are in agreement with a single-gene model of susceptibility; no simple model fits the DBA data.
Limited evidence for main reason for failure of partially excavated and restored teeth

DATA SOURCES Medline, PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched between Jan 1967 and Dec 2012. No grey literature searches were carried out. STUDY SELECTION Randomised and non-randomised, controlled and uncontrolled, pro- and retrospective clinical studies (in English or German) that investigated one- or two-step incomplete dentinal caries removal (where caries was >1/2 dentine thickness) were eligible. Studies had to have teeth that were clinically and/or radiologically vital, primary or permanent teeth requiring a restoration but with no pulp exposure.The main outcomes were; clinical or radiological failure based on reported re-treatment. Failures were classified where possible into pulpal (pain, clinical or radiographic signs of pathology) and non-pulpal (tooth or restoration fracture, restoration loss or breach in integrity, secondary or progressing residual caries or non-pulpal failures). DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two authors independently reviewed the title and abstract of the articles (without blinding to authors or journals) and both extracted data, with discrepancies resolved through discussion or consultation with a third reviewer. Risk of bias was carried out using Cochrane collaboration guidelines and studies were assessed using GRADE criteria.Failure was calculated per year and annual failure rates weighted according to the number of teeth. Weighted annual failure rates were then used as the effect estimate for frequency and type of failure. Subgroup analyses were carried out, for factors influencing failure, in studies that compared teeth within one or more of the following groups: primary or permanent teeth; pulpal symptoms prior to treatment; single or multi-surface cavities; one- or two-step incomplete excavation; lining material; and restorative material. RESULTS Twenty-nine articles reporting 19 trials (12 randomised controlled trials, two controlled trials, five case series & retrospective studies), with a median follow up of 24 months (IQR; 12 to 48), were included. In 11 studies pulpal complications were the main reason for failure and only two studies found more non-pulpal than pulpal failures. Median annual failure rate was 3.8 (IQR; 1.4 to 4.4)From the sub-group analyses, there was significantly lower risk of failure for teeth with one- compared to those with two-step excavation (OR=0.21, 95%CI [0.08 to 0.55]) and for those with single compared with multi-surface lesions (OR=0.33, 95%CI [0.16 to 0.67]. Risk of bias scores varied widely and the quality of the studies was very low. CONCLUSIONS Following incomplete removal of deep caries, pulpal failure (pain, clinical or radiographic signs of pathology) was the most common failure type. One-step incomplete excavation for deep caries lesions reduced the risk of failure compared to two-step removal and multi-surface lesions had a higher risk of failure than single surface lesions.
Partial characterization and ontogeny of renal cytosolic glucocorticoid receptors in mouse kidney

Abstract The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) was partially characterized in mouse renal cytosol. A sensitive and reproducible [3H]dexamethasone binding assay suitable for use with small quantities of cytosolic protein, was developed. Studies denned the optimal equilibrium binding conditions, metabolism of [3H]dexamethasone in adult renal cytosol, specificity of binding of the GR, and molecular weight of the GR-[3H]dexamethasone complex by gel filtration chromatography. The assay was subsequently used to measure the renal GR during different stages of foetal and postnatal development, as well as in glomerular and renal tubular preparations from adult mice. An almost linear increase in GR occurred from day 13 to day 18 of gestation with levels rising from 100 to 201 fmol/mg cytosol protein; this was followed by a sharp rise in receptor concentration just after birth to 343 fmol/mg cytosol protein. Adult levels, 410–433 fmol/mg cytosol protein, were reached by 2 weeks after birth. The equilibrium dissociation constants (Kd) of the [3H]dexamethasone-receptor complex were similar in adult and in embryonic cytosols (range, 2.8−11.8 nM ; x ± SD = 6.5 ± 2.9 nM ). Specific binding was assessed to be 3- to 5-fold greater in tubular than in glomerular preparations. These data on the localization and ontogeny of GR during murine metanephric development provide a basis for study of glucocorticoid-mediated effects on various models of congenital and acquired renal disease.
Kinetic measurements of phosphoglucomutase by direct analysis of glucose-1-phosphate and glucose-6-phosphate using ion/molecule reactions and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry

Abstract A method for the direct determination of kinetic constants for phosphoglucomutase and its phosphorylated products is described. Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance gas-phase ion/molecule reactions between trimethyl borate and glucose phosphate, phosphorylated at either the 1 or the 6 position, generate mass spectra distinguishable with regard to product ion distribution. A multicomponent quantification method is utilized to determine the composition of a binary mixture of the two positional isomers. Using this method, the conversion between glucose-1-phosphate and glucose-6-phosphate can be directly monitored without the use of coupling enzymes. The values of K m for glucose-1-phosphate and glucose-6-phosphate were determined using the substrate–velocity plot and the Haldane relationship, respectively. Values of V max for both the forward and the reverse directions were measured, and the equilibrium constant for the reversible reaction was determined using this methodology. Kinetic parameters measured correlate well with those obtained using traditional methods. The assay was demonstrated to be accurate and particularly convenient to determine kinetic constants for enzymatic systems that involve the interconversion of phosphorylated positional isomers.
Unusual reactions to insect stings

Purpose of reviewA variety of unusual or unexpected reactions have occurred in a temporal relationship to insect stings. This review will summarize these case history reports in recent years. As these reactions are very infrequent, the review will also include prior reported unusual reactions attrib