cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sneers and Leers: Romance Writers and Gendered Sexual Stigma

Drawing on four years of ethnographic research with romance novel writers, we show how their affiliation with romance—a literary genre known for stories containing sexual content—prompted outsiders to sexually stigmatize them. Our work examines both the application and management of this stigma. We describe how outsiders applied the stigma in two ways: by conveying blatant disapproval through “sneering” and inviting writers to display a highly sexualized self through “leering.” Writers interpreted outsiders’ sneering as slut-shaming rhetoric and responded discursively to manage the stigma; leering, however, sent a more complicated message that was harder for writers to manage. In revealing how these interactions threatened to strip writers of their sexual agency, our analysis suggests gender may be a primary mechanism by which stigma is applied and managed, which has theoretical implications for the stigmatization of women’s sexual selves.
Rural Social Workers’ Perceptions of Training Needs for Working with LGBTQ-identified Youth in the Foster Care System

The article reports on findings from an exploratory qualitative study with rural child welfare professionals concerning their perceptions of services and training needs for working effectively with LGBTQ-identified youth in rural out-of-home care. The study employed focus group methodology with workers from one region of a Midwestern state. Emergent themes corroborated extant research findings, and the three types were (a) an analysis of the current reality of knowledge, services, and training; (b) specific challenges to expanding and/or improving training for rural workers; and (c) recommendations for improving services and climate for LGBTQ-identified youth in rural areas. Implications for rural social work practice follow a discussion of findings.
A data-driven modeling approach to stochastic computation for low-energy biomedical devices

Low-power devices that can detect clinically relevant correlations in physiologically-complex patient signals can enable systems capable of closed-loop response (e.g., controlled actuation of therapeutic stimulators, continuous recording of disease states, etc.). In ultra-low-power platforms, however, hardware error sources are becoming increasingly limiting. In this paper, we present how data-driven methods, which allow us to accurately model physiological signals, also allow us to effectively model and overcome prominent hardware error sources with nearly no additional overhead. Two applications, EEG-based seizure detection and ECG-based arrhythmia-beat classification, are synthesized to a logic-gate implementation, and two prominent error sources are introduced: (1) SRAM bit-cell errors and (2) logic-gate switching errors (‘stuck-at’ faults). Using patient data from the CHB-MIT and MIT-BIH databases, performance similar to error-free hardware is achieved even for very high fault rates (up to 0.5 for SRAMs and 7×10−2 for logic) that cause computational bit error rates as high as 50%.
Soft bacterial polyester‐based shape memory nanocomposites featuring reconfigurable nanostructure

In this work, a novel soft shape memory polymer nanocomposite derived from a bacterial medium-chain-length polyhydroxyalkanoate, poly(3-hydroxyoctanoate-co-3-hydroxyundecenoate) (PHOU), used to form a covalent network grafted with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS), a crystallizable inorganic–organic hybrid nanofiller, was prepared. The PHOU–POSS nanocomposite, PHOU–POSSw-net [w (= POSS content, wt %) = 0, 20, 25, 30, and 38], is a completely amorphous elastomer (w ≤ 20) or contains POSS nanocrystals embedded in the amorphous PHOU matrix (w ≥ 25). The hybrid nanostructure of PHOU–POSSw-net (w ≥ 25) is featured by its reconfigurability, based on aggregation and disaggregation of POSS covalently connected to the PHOU network, which enables excellent shape fixing and recovery. Furthermore, it exhibits soft and elastomeric mechanical properties even in the fixed state. Taking advantage of the shape memory ability as well as the softness in the fixed state, we demonstrate microscale dynamic surface topography of PHOU–POSSw-net. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
On nonlinear reaction-diffusion systems

Abstract This paper presents a qualitative analysis for a coupled system of two reaction-diffusion equations under various boundary conditions which arises from a number of physical problems. The nonlinear reaction functions are classified into three basic types according to their relative quasi-monotone property. For each type of reaction functions, an existence-comparison theorem, in terms of upper and lower solutions, is established for the time-dependent system as well as some boundary value problems. Three concrete physical systems arising from epidemics, biochemistry and engineering are taken as representatives of the basic types of reacting problems. Through suitable construction of upper and lower solutions, various qualitative properties of the solution for each system are obtained. These include the existence and bounds of time-dependent solutions, asymptotic behavior of the solution, stability and instability of nontrivial steady-state solutions, estimates of stability regions, and finally the blowing-up property of the solution. Special attention is given to the homogeneous Neumann boundary condition.
Copper Foam Structures with Highly Porous Nanostructured Walls

A variety of copper foams with highly open porous walls have been successfully sculptured using the gas evolved in an electrochemical deposition process. The pore sizes and wall structures of the f...
Hartree-Fock study of near-edge gap states in CaF2 with Na+, Cl- or Sr2+ impurities

Abstract The energy of formation and electronic structure of Na + , Cl − and Sr 2+ impurity centers in CaF 2 have been computed using ab initio Hartree–Fock theory and the supercell approach. The work extends and complements recent results [Solid State Commun. 118 (2001) 569] for Mg 2+ as a substitutional impurity in CaF 2 . For Na + substituting for Ca 2+ [S(Na)], charge compensation by an F − vacancy [V(F)] or by a second, interstitial Na + [I(Na)] are both considered. In all cases, geometry optimization is done by relaxing the positions of nearest- and next-nearest-neighbors to minimize the total energy. After correction for electron correlation, the energies of formation increase in the order Mg 2+ 2+ − + results are in agreement with previous Mott–Littleton formation energies. Ion charges, charge density maps and Mulliken bond populations are obtained to show the nature of bonding in the vicinity of the defect. Na + leads to states just above the CaF 2 valence band maximum (VBM), and Na + (and also Mg 2+ ) produce states just below the conduction band minimum. The results are in qualitative agreement with available optical data for Na + and Mg 2+ impurity effects on CaF 2 near-edge absorption but show that gap states are important in addition to perturbed excitons. A Cl − impurity yields a narrow band of states above the VBM which may significantly affect the deep-ultraviolet transmission of CaF 2 . Sr 2+ does not appear to produce states in the CaF 2 gap.
Training Women for Management: New Problems, New Solutions

Needs of women students and some programmatic changes potentially meeting those needs are considered. Analyses include discussion of the usefulness of female role models, pre-employment socialization, and segregated classrooms. Examples of programmatic changes now practiced in universities and business are presented. Finally, risks of developing programs are discussed with recommendations for continuing research.
Learning curve for competency in flexible laryngoscopy

Objectives/Hypothesis: The purpose of our study was to identify the number of attempts required to attain competency in performing flexible laryngoscopy. Study Design: Cross-sectional prospective study. Methods: Fifteen medical students were recruited to perform flexible laryngoscopy on a mannequin. Each participant was given unlimited time and attempts to perform the procedure until considered competent by the evaluator for two consecutive attempts. Three evaluators used a flexible laryngoscopy checklist to score performance on each step of the procedure. Time required to perform the procedure was recorded, as well as number of times the scope hit the mucosa. The criteria for attaining competence were achieving a minimum score of 3 out of 5 on all the items of the checklist and being deemed competent by the evaluator. Results: A total of 105 flexible laryngoscopies were performed by 15 medical students. A mean of six attempts (range, 2-17) were necessary for a medical student to become competent in performing flexible laryngoscopy. An 80% probability of becoming competent was achieved with the 14th attempt. An inverse relationship was noted between the number of times the scope hit the mucosa and the probability of being competent. The time taken to perform the procedure decreased with increasing number of attempts. Conclusions: Our results suggest that it takes six attempts on average for a novice to become competent in performing flexible laryngoscopy. This finding has implications for residency programs because it indicates the learning curve can be overcome in the laboratory rather than with patients.
Mechanical properties of an ultrafine-grained Al-7.5 Pct Mg alloy

In the present study, the relationships between the structure and properties of a cryomilled Al-7.5 pct Mg alloy were investigated. The microstructure of the cryomilled Al-7.5 pct Mg alloy consisted of equiaxed grains with an approximate size of 300 nm. Thermal treatment had only a minor effect on microstructure, as evidenced by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results. The tensile behavior was characterized by high strength, high ductility, and low-strain-hardening. The tensile deformation was relatively uniform, with limited necking deformation, and fracture surfaces were characterized by microdimples. The variation of strain rates from 4 · 10−4 to 4 · 10−2 s−1 had an insignificant effect on tensile behavior. Comparison of compressive and tensile behavior revealed similar moduli and yield strengths, although the postyield behavior was markedly asymmetric. The present results indicate that grain-size effects, solid-solution strengthening, Orowan strengthening, and dislocation strengthening contribute significantly to the properties of a cryomilled Al-7.5 pct Mg alloy.
Serial extraction of endosperm drillings (SEED)—A method for detecting transgenes and proteins in single viable maize kernels

We have developed a method for detecting a transgene and its protein product in maize endosperm that allows the kernel to be germinated after analysis. This technique could be highly useful for several monocots and dicots. Our method involves first sampling the endosperm with a hand-held rotary grinder so that the embryo is preserved and capable of germination. This tissue is then serially extracted, first with SDS-PAGE sample buffer to extract proteins, then with an aqueous buffer to extract DNA. The product of the transgene can be detected in the first extract by SDS-PAGE with visualization by total protein staining or immuno-blot detection. The second extract can be purified and used as template DNA in PCR reactions to detect the transgene. This method is particularly useful for screening transgenic kernels in breeding experiments and testing for gene silencing in kernels.
Urban Morphology + The Social Vernacular: A Speculative Skyscraper for Islamic Medieval Cairo

Abstract The skyscraper is the ultimate (Western) “formal typology” created by the urban booms of the last century and most recently appropriated as the agent of rapid globalization. However, as a means of densifying urban fabric – and consequently reducing sprawl and congestion – it is conspicuously absent from some of the world's densest cities, particularly those within the Middle East. This project investigates the lack of tower constructions in Cairo's dense urban and medieval fabric, and ultimately proposes a speculative skyscraper that verticalizes the complex interrelationship of informal social networks and urban/civic form.
TELEVISION AND PUBLIC SERVICE IN THE UNITED STATES: WRITING THE HISTORY OF A PROBLEM

This essay analyses one of the most contentious topics in U.S. television studies: the conceptualization of public service in broadcasting. It gives a historical perspective of public service in broadcasting in the US and the political and ideological implications in the broadcasting of the programs and films.
Prevention of cardiovascular ischemic complications with new platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors.

Abstract Agents that block platelet glycoprotein IIbIIIa integrin, the receptor that mediates the final common pathway of platelet aggregation, represent a promising new approach to preventing cardiovascular ischemic complications and late restenosis after percutaneous coronary revascularization. In the large-scale Evaluation of c7E3 for the Prevention of Ischemic Complications (EPIC) trial that involved high-risk patients undergoing coronary intervention procedures, a monoclonal antibody Fab fragment (c7E3) directed against this receptor, administered as a bolus and through infusion, significantly reduced the 30-day incidence of major ischemic events relative to placebo. Treatment was associated with higher rates of bleeding complications and transfusion, the risk of which appeared to be inversely related to body weight. The c7E3 bolus and infusion also significantly decreased the need for repeat revascularization during the 6-month blinded follow-up period. Ongoing trials are now exploring strategies for refining the practical aspects of glycoprotein IIbIIIa therapy and minimizing the risk of bleeding.
Development of advanced micromirror arrays by flip-chip assembly

This paper presents the design, commercial prefabrication, modeling and testing of advanced micromirror arrays fabricated using a novel, simple and inexpensive flip-chip assembly technique. Several polar piston arrays and rectangular cantilever arrays were fabricated using flip-chip assembly by which the upper layers of the array are fabricated on a separate chip and then transferred to a receiving module containing the lower layers. Typical polar piston arrays boast 98.3% active surface area, highly planarized surfaces, low address potentials compatible with CMOS electronics, highly standardized actuation between devices, and complex segmentation of mirror surfaces which allows for custom aberration configurations. Typical cantilever arrays boast large angles of rotation as well as an average surface planarity of only 1.779 nm of RMS roughness across 100 +m mirrors. Continuous torsion devices offer stable operation through as much as six degrees of rotation while binary operation devices offer stable activated positions with as much as 20 degrees of rotation. All arrays have desirable features of costly fabrication services like five structural layers and planarized mirror surfaces, but are prefabricated in the less costly MUMPs process. Models are developed for all devices and used to compare empirical data.
Does composition medium affect the psychometric properties of scores on an exercise designed to assess written medical communication skills

The ECFMG® Clinical Skills Assessment (CSA®) was developed to evaluate whether graduates of international medical schools are ready to enter graduate training programs in the United States. The performance-based patient note exercise is specifically used to assess an examinee’s ability to summarize, synthesize and interpret the data collected in a patient interview. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether choice of composition method (typing or writing) affected the psychometric properties of the scores. Using data for a 1-year period, the validity and reliability of typed and written notes was contrasted. Although the characteristics of individuals who chose whether or not to type were different, the statistical analyses indicated that, controlling for examinee ability, physician examiner ratings of the written summaries were not influenced by composition method. The results of this study suggest that the psychometric properties of the patient note scores are invariant with respect to composition method.
Bone chemistry and the reconstruction of diet: Strontium discrimination in white-tailed deer

Abstract Studies of the relationship between the strontium content of human bone and past diet are still in an experimental stage. Because of the low frequency of carnivore remains at most archaeological sites and the absence of information on local strontium levels, it has been difficult to (1) estimate dietary intake for a prehistoric population, and (2) to compare prehistoric populations from spatially disparate areas. However, examination of strontium/calcium ratios in a modern herbivore may help to alleviate these problems. Bones from modern white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) were compared with deer diet in Wisconsin. An observed ratio between deer bone and diet in terms of a strontium/calcium index was calculated at 0204, which compares favourably with observed ratios reported for other mammals. Prehistoric white-tailed deer are used in the analysis of two Late Archaic sites in the midwestern U.S.A. The strontium levels in deer can be used as a baseline for comparison between sites. The prehistoric subsistence patterns are generally comparable, with hunting accounting for the bulk of the diet.
Pseudouridines in rRNA helix 69 play a role in loop stacking interactions

The 1H NMR spectra of RNAs representing E. coli23S rRNA helix 69 with [1,3-15N]pseudouridine modification at specific sites reveal unique roles for pseudouridine in stabilizing base-stacking interactions in the hairpin loop region.
Changes in the Enzymes for Fatty Acid Synthesis and Desaturation during Acclimation of Developing Soybean Seeds to Altered Growth Temperature

Temperature-induced changes in the enzymes for fatty acid synthesis and desaturation were studied in developing soybean seeds (Glycine max L. var Williams 82). Changes were induced by culture of the seed pods for 20 hours in liquid media at 20, 25, or 35 degrees C. Linoleoyl and oleoyl desaturases were 94 and 10 times as active, respectively, in seeds cultured at 20 degrees C as those cultured at 25 degrees C. Both desaturases had negligible activity in seeds cultured at 35 degrees C compared to seeds cultured at 20 degrees C. Though less dramatic, other enzymes also showed differences in activity after 20 hours in culture at 20, 25, or 35 degrees C. Stearoyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) desaturase and CDP-choline:diacylglycerol phosphorylcholine transferase were most active in preparations from 20 degrees C cultures. Activities were twofold lower at 25 degrees C and a further threefold lower in 35 degrees C cultures. Cultures from 25 and 35 degrees C had 60 and 40%, respectively, of the phosphorylcholine:CTP cytidylyl transferase activity present in cultures grown at 20 degrees C. Fatty acid synthetase, malonyl-coenzyme A:ACP transacylase, palmitoyl-ACP elongation, and choline kinase were not significantly altered by culture temperature. These data suggest that the enzymes for fatty acid desaturation and phosphatidylcholine synthesis can be rapidly modulated in response to altered growth temperatures, while the enzymes for fatty acid synthesis and elongation are not.
Use of X-rays to treat shoulder tendonitis/bursitis: a historical assessment

This article assesses the therapeutic efficacy of ionizing radiation for the treatment of shoulder tendonitis/bursitis in the USA over the period of its use (human 1936–1961; veterinary 1954–1974). Results from ~3,500 human cases were reported in the clinical case studies over 30 articles, and indicated a high treatment efficacy (>90 %) for patients. Radiotherapy was effective with a single treatment. The duration of treatment effectiveness was prolonged, usually lasting until the duration of the follow-up period (i.e., 1–5 years). Therapeutic effectiveness was reduced for conditions characterized as chronic. Similar findings were reported with race horses in the veterinary literature. These historical findings are consistent with clinical studies over the past several decades in Germany, which have used more rigorous study designs and a broader range of clinical evaluation parameters. Radiotherapy treatment was widely used in the mid twentieth century in the USA, but was abandoned following the discovery of anti-inflammatory drugs and the fear of radiation-induced cancer. That X-ray treatment could be an effective means of treating shoulder tendonitis/bursitis, as a treatment option, and is essentially unknown by the current medical community. This paper is the first comprehensive synthesis of the historical use of X-rays to treat shoulder tendonitis/bursitis and its efficacy in the USA.
Aldosterone-Induced Hypertension: Effects of a Kininase Inhibitor

A synthetic orally active angiotensin I converting enzyme inhibitor Captopril (Squibb), (D-2-methyl-3-mercaptopropanoyl-L-Proline), was administered to three groups of hypertensive animals. The animals were made hypertensive by uninephrectomy, daily injections of 5 ug/100 g body weight d-aldosterone (Sigma) in wheat germ oil and substitution of 0.9% NaCl for the drinking water. Captopril was given to pregnant and nonpregnant animals during the developmental phase of hypertension and to nonpregnant animals with established (4 weeks of treatment) hypertension. The agent attenuated the hypertension in both the pregnant and nonpregnant animals when given while hypertension was developing. Captopril was effective in reducing established aldosterone-NaCl hypertension to normotensive levels.
Spectrum Signature Modeling and Data Reduction Techniques Applicable to Airborne Antennas

Information is presented on a modeling technique and on data reduction techniques applicable to obtaining the spectrum signatures of low-gain, low-frequency airborne antennas. The modeling technique demonstrates the degree of simplicity permissible in the fabrication of aircraft scale models on which test antennas are mounted. It is shown that simple geometric shapes employed to represent an aerodynamically shaped aircraft will yield sufficiently accurate information for antenna signature evaluation, thus allowing far-field antenna characteristics to be obtained at a relatively low cost. A brief discussion of an analog-digital converter unit is also included. This unit is employed in the placing of antenna pattern data in a format that is applicable to the Electromagnetic Compatibility Analysis Center (ECAC) computer facilities.
Oxidation behavior of co-doped NiCrAl alloys in dry and wet air

Abstract Cast NiCrAl alloys with additions of Y, La, Hf and Ti were evaluated at 1100 °C in wet (10 and 50% H 2 O) and dry air (0% H 2 O) in order to optimize such dopants for superalloy bond coatings. The results suggest that the typical Y addition in most coatings could be replaced by La. Also, scale adhesion in cyclic testing was improved with the co-addition of Hf with La or Y. Ti was added to investigate its incorporation in coatings on superalloys containing significant Ti additions. Particularly with co-doped alloys, the addition of Ti had little effect on scale adhesion but did reduce the depth of internal oxidation. Water vapor increased spallation, especially for the least adherent alloys, such as Y,Ti-doped NiCrAl. For the co-doped compositions with Hf, water vapor had a limited effect on scale adhesion and on the alumina growth rate in isothermal exposures. In addition to specimen mass change, the extent of internal oxidation and the depletion of β phase in the substrate were evaluated. Analytical transmission electron microscopy showed that Y, La and Hf co-segregated to the alumina scale grain boundaries and formed dopant-rich oxide precipitates in the scale.
Specific Anosmia: a Clue to the Olfactory Code

Are sensations of smell determined by reactions to primary odours analogous to the primary colours in theories of colour vision ? The fact that some people cannot detect the odour of isobutyric acid even though their sense of smell may be otherwise complete suggests that this substance, or a substance with molecules which are similar in size, shape and functional group, may represent a primary odour.
Selecting analogous problems: similarity versus inclusiveness.

Students were asked to select one of two analogous problems in order to solve algebra word problems. In Experiment 1, one problem was less inclusive and the other was more inclusive than a test problem. The students judged the complexity and similarity of problems, selected analogous problems, and used the solutions to solve test problems. They performed significantly better on the test problems when given the more inclusive solutions, but used perceived similarity rather than inclusiveness to select analogous problems. The same pattern of results occurred in Experiment 2, in which isomorphic problems replacedthe more inclusive problems. The results show that students are deficient in selecting good analogies, both from the same category (Experiment 1) and from a different category (Experiment 2). Students who saw the analogous solutions (Experiment 3) or were majoring in mathematics (Experiment 4) were more likely to select an isomorphic problem over a less inclusive problem, but were not more likely to select a more inclusive over a less inclusive problem.
Montaigne's ‘des cannibales’ and natural sources of virtue

(1989). Montaigne's ‘des cannibales’ and natural sources of virtue. History of European Ideas: Vol. 11, No. 1-6, pp. 427-434.
The many faces of Src: multiple functions of a prototypical tyrosine kinase

c-src was first isolated as the normal cellular homologue of v-src, the transforming gene of Rous Sarcoma virus (Stehelin et al., 1976). As the first proto-oncogene described and one of the first molecules demonstrated to have tyrosine kinase activity, Src has provided a prototype for understanding signal transduction involving tyrosine phosphorylation. Comparison between c-src and activated or transforming mutants of Src including v-src, combined with recent data on the structure of Src family kinases has provided new insight into their regulation. In this review, I will discuss the function of the various domains of Src in light of these mutational and structural studies.
Exterior Calculus: Thermodynamics and Navier-Stokes Dynamics

Mathematical models of dynamics employing exterior calculus are shown to be mathematical representations of the same unifying principle; namely, the description of a dynamic system with a characteristic differential one-form on an odd-dimensional differentiable manifold leads, by analysis with exterior calculus to a set of differential equations and a characteristic tangent vector which define transformations of the system [1-4]. This principle, whose origin is V. I. Arnolds use of exterior calculus to describe Hamiltonian mechanics and geometric optics, is applied to irreversible thermodynamics and Navier-Stokes dynamics. Results include (a) a set of equations for irreversible thermodynamics equivalent to Maxwells equations for reversible thermodynamics, (b) transformation of the incompressible Navier-Stokes equation into a pair of simpler equivalent equations, which are solved and (c) a characteristic tangent vector for each area of dynamics, which indicates the direction of phase flow.
Mechanism of the Long-Term Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation on Solutions and Suspended Colloids

The mechanisms of the electromagnetic water treatment have been studied with a multitude of techniques and it has been found that the gas/water interface is essential to perturb water and suspended colloids. Perturbation of the gas/liquid interface results in nonequilibrium conditions which require hours to relax. Certain magnetic and electric fields also produce small amounts of ozone, superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, or atomic hydrogen. The addition of hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen did not produce equivalent effects without additional gas/liquid interface perturbations with electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Hydrophobic gases such as argon or carbon dioxide which promote clathrate-like structuring of water appear to be affected more significantly through the action of EMFs.
Noise and helping behavior.

Three experiments were conducted in natural settings to examine the effects of noise on helping behavior. Individuals who were briefly exposed to high intensity construction noise were found to be less likely to help another person than were those exposed to noise of a considerably lower intensity. In addition, high noise levels interfered more with verbal help than with physical help, and had a greater effect on the helping behavior of females than on that of males.
A correction to some invariant imbedding equations of transport theory obtained by “particle counting”☆

Comparison of a rigorously derived invariant imbedding equation for transport in a sphere with one obtained by particle-counting methods shows that a term is missing from the latter. This error, due to a geometrical effect, is corrected by a more careful application of the particlecounting technique. (M.J.T.)
The role of L-type calcium channels in the development and expression of behavioral sensitization to ethanol

Abstract Behavioral sensitization is thought to play a significant role in drug addiction. L-type calcium channels have been implicated in sensitization to stimulant and opiate drugs but it is unclear if these channels also contribute to sensitization to ethanol. The effects of three L-type calcium channel blockers, nifedipine (1–7.5 mg/kg), diltiazem (12.5–50 mg/kg), and verapamil (12.5 and 25 mg/kg), on sensitization to ethanol (2 g/kg) were examined in DBA/2J mice. All three blockers reduced but did not prevent expression of sensitization. Only nifedipine blocked acquisition of sensitization. Nifedipine and verapamil decreased blood ethanol levels. The current findings suggest L-type calcium channels do not play a substantial role in sensitization to ethanol and that the neural mechanisms underlying sensitization to ethanol are distinct from those mediating sensitization to stimulants and opiates.
Identification of the PGRMC1 protein complex as the putative sigma-2 receptor binding site

The sigma-2 receptor, whose gene remains to be cloned, has been validated as a biomarker for tumour cell proliferation. Here we report the use of a novel photoaffinity probe, WC-21, to identify the sigma-2 receptor-binding site. WC-21, a sigma-2 ligand containing both a photoactive azide moiety and a fluorescein isothiocyanate group, irreversibly labels sigma-2 receptors in rat liver; the membrane-bound protein was identified as PGRMC1 (progesterone receptor membrane component 1). Immunocytochemistry reveals that both PGRMC1 and SW120, a fluorescent sigma-2 receptor ligand, colocalize with molecular markers of the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in HeLa cells. Overexpression and knockdown of the PGRMC1 protein results in an increase and a decrease in binding of a sigma-2 selective radioligand, respectively. The identification of the putative sigma-2 receptor-binding site as PGRMC1 should stimulate the development of unique imaging agents and cancer therapeutics that target the sigma-2 receptor/PGRMC1 complex.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN LONG-TERM QUADRICEPS WEAKNESS AND EARLY WALKING MUSCLE CO-CONTRACTION AFTER TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

Abstract Introduction Quadriceps weakness is one of the primary post-operative impairments that persist long term for patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We hypothesized that early gait muscle recruitment patterns of the quadriceps and hamstrings with diminished knee performance at 3months after surgery would be related to long-term quadriceps strength at 1year after TKA. Methods Twenty-one subjects who underwent primary unilateral TKA and 14 age-matched healthy controls were analyzed. At 3months after TKA, the maximum voluntary isometric contraction of the quadriceps and a comprehensive gait analysis were performed. Quadriceps strength was assessed again at 1year after surgery. Results Quadriceps muscle recruitment of the operated limb was greater than the non-operated limb during the loading response of gait (p=0.03), but there were no significant differences in hamstring recruitment or co-contraction between limbs (p>0.05). There were significant differences in quadriceps muscle recruitment during gait between the non-operated limbs of the TKA group and the healthy control group (p Conclusions The results revealed a reverse relationship where stronger patients tended to demonstrate lower quadriceps recruitment at 3months post-surgery that was not observed in the healthy peer group. The altered neuromuscular patterns of the quadriceps and hamstrings during gait may influence chronic quadriceps strength in individuals after TKA. Level of evidence III.
Ageing of Neurospora crassa. VI. Cytochemical and cytological correlates of senescence in three model systems.

Abstract Senescent cells from three model systems in Neurospora crassa exhibit excessive rates of non-enzymatic mitochondrial lipid peroxidation in vitro and release excessive amounts of material into either the growth medium or hypotonic salt solutions, indicating that both mitochondrial and plasma membranes are abnormal. Since culture with the antioxidant nordihydroguaiaretic acid not only alleviates senescence of growth rate in each of the systems, but also alleviates or prevents the occurence of a number of biochemical abnormalities related to membranes and lipid peroxidation, excessive lipid peroxidation in plasma membranes during senescence appears to lead to abnormality of their osmotic and permeability properties. In support of this hypothesis, we demonstrated that: (1) culture of cells which undergo senescence with nordihydroguaiaretic acid inhibits the excessive release of cellular material, either during culture or in hypotonic saline solutions, to a level nearly that of normal cells; and (2) incubation of normal cells in conditions favoring peroxidation of their plasma membrane lipids, i.e., with ferrous ascorbate, enhanced the release of cellular material and nordihydroguaiaretic acid inhibited this enhancement to a level equivalent to that of untreated cells. Additional studies of the natural-death mutant revealed an acceleration of rate of senescence by hypertonic medium and a premature age-dependent decline of cytochrome oxidase activity when grown in normal medium. Analyses of growth rates, osmotic fragility, and cellular respiratory competence of sub-clonal samples of this mutant indicated that senescence also occurs in post-mitotic cells; but that the youngest cells in time of origin are the most senescent in their physiology. These latter results indicate that there may be an age-dependent accumulation of molecular errors in mitotic cells, probably in replicating molecules such as nuclear and/or mitochondrial DNA. Deleterious reactions with the products of lipid peroxidation are the most probable source of such errors.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Randomly Interesterified Blends of Corn Oil and Tallow

The sodium methylate-catalyzed random interesterification of corn oil-tallow blends was explored in order to develop plastic fats of varying physical properties. Lipase hydrolysis of the randomized fats showed that with 0.5% catalyst, interesterification was completed within 30 min at 80°C. Interesterification decreased the melting point and solid fat index of the randomized fats. The trans- fatty acid level and fatty acid profile of the rearranged fats did not show any change upon interesterification. The oxidative stability of the fats decreased after random interesterification, but addition of 0.01% citric acid and 0.01% butylated hydroxyanisole produced a fat blend of comparable stability to commercial margarine oils.
Thermal creep mechanisms in V–4Cr–4Ti pressurized tube specimens

Abstract Pressurized thermal creep tubes of V–4Cr–4Ti have been examined following testing in the range 650–800 °C for tests lasting ∼10 4 h to provide comparison with tests on similar tubes following irradiation. It is found in all cases that creep results from dislocation motion. But the mechanism changes with increasing temperature and lower stress from one controlled by the climb and interaction of individual dislocations, to one controlled by sub-grain boundary structure that is created by relaxation of the interacting dislocations to lower energy planar arrays. This change in mechanism corresponds to a change from power law creep to Newtonian creep such that the stress exponent drops from ∼4 to ∼1. Although it is possible to explain the Newtonian response as Nabarro–Herring or Coble creep, it appears more likely that behavior is due to Harper–Dorn creep, in which case the change in response occurs at the Peierls stress.
Health benefits of solar UV-B radiation: cancer risk reduction

Based on geographical distributions of various cancers in the U.S. and elsewhere, ecologic studies comparing these distributions to indices of solar radiation during the past 20 years have led to the understanding that solar UVB radiation is a risk reduction factor for breast, colon, ovarian, prostate cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Photo-initiated production of vitamin D is the mechanism that enables solar UVB to play this role. The work presented here explores the use of the USDA UVB Radiation Monitoring Program ground station values to confirm and extend the prior results, and compares these results to those obtained using UVB data from the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS). Inverse correlations between solar UVB radiation have been found for a total of 14 cancers using mortality data from the U.S. with these data sets, and are supported by additional studies using cancer mortality and dietary supply data from Europe. While vitamin D has been shown to be a risk reduction factor for several of these cancers, it is hoped that additional studies will be conducted to confirm or disprove the protective role of UVB and/or vitamin D for the remaining cancers.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effect of increasing levels of dietary fish oil on tissue lipids and prostaglandin synthesis in the rat

Abstract The effects of increasing levels of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in fish oil on the composition of phospholipids in specific tissues and prostanoid biosynthesis important to vascular integrity were studied. Rats were fed menhaden oil at 5, 10 and 20 weight percent corresponding to 1, 2 and 4 percent dietary eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The control diets contained hydrogenated coconut oil and both diets included 2% safflower oil in order to be adequate in essential fatty acids. Significant differences in tissue selectivity for 20:5 and 22:6 were observed for platelet and aorta phospholipids. While platelets avidly took up 20:5 primarily at the expense of 20:4 n-6, 22:6 did not accumulate proprotionally in platelets even at the 20 percent dietary level. Alternatively, aorta phospholipids took up equal quantities of both 20:5 and 22:6 again at the expense of 20:4. Prostanoid biosynthesis by these tissues was significantly and selectively altered by dietary treatments. Whereas serum thromboxane levels were decreased by 50% in the group receiving 5% fish oil, prostacyclin production by isolated aorta segments from the same group was not correspondingly reduced. In contrast, the higher dietary levels: i.e. 10 and 20 percent fish oil, did not elicit corresponding reductions in thromboxane levels whereas prostacyclin production by isolated aorta tissue was increasingly affected and reached a 50% decrease at 20 percent dietary fish oil. These experiments demonstrated significant and perhaps important sensitivities by different tissues to dietary n-3 PUFA. In spite of these effects, the experimental animals did not exhibit a significant alteration in tail bleeding times, platelet aggregability or platelet sensitivity to the agonists ADP and collagen relative to control animals. Whole blood viscosity was however, lower in the group fed 20 percent fish oil.
Mechanisms of carbon monoxide toxicity

This review re-examines the possibility that some of the toxic effects of CO exposure in man could be due to CO binding within cells, as well as decreases in tissue pO2 resulting from the presence of carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO). Data are reviewed from experiments designed to measure adverse effects of CO on isolated smooth muscle. These data show that CO tensions greater than 1,000 times those seen in intact tissues when HbCO is 5 to 10% saturation have only a small effect on oxygen uptake. Thus, it is unlikely that in vivo CO toxicity occurs in this tissue as a result of binding to cytochrome oxidase. I reviewed existing data which indicate that CO binding to myoglobin, in heart and skeletal muscle, is significant, even at low CO exposure giving HbCO less than 5% saturation. Whether myoglobin—CO binding is a significant cause of CO toxicity during exercise, or of the sensitivity of the myocardium to CO, is unknown.
Inflammation and hyperalgesia in rats neonatally treated with capsaicin: effects on two classes of nociceptive neurons in the superficial dorsal horn

To address the mechanisms of hyperalgesia and dorsal horn plasticity following peripheral tissue inflammation, the effects of adjuvant-induced inflammation of the rat hindpaw on behavioral nociception and nociceptive neuronal activity in the superficial dorsal horn were examined in neonatally capsaicin-treated rats 6-8 weeks of age. Capsaicin treatment resulted in an 82% loss of unmyelinated fibers in L5 dorsal roots, a dramatic reduction of substance P-like immunoreactivity in the spinal cord, and a significant decrease in the percentage of dorsal horn nociceptive neurons that responded to C-fiber stimulation and noxious heating of the skin. The thermal nociceptive threshold was significantly increased in capsaicin-treated rats, but behavioral hyperalgesia to thermal stimuli still developed in response to inflammation. Following inflammation, there was a significant decrease in mechanical threshold and an increase in response duration to mechanical stimuli in both vehicle- and capsaicin-treated rats, suggesting that a state of mechanical hyperalgesia was also induced. The capsaicin treatment appears to have differential effects on nociceptive specific (NS) and wide-dynamic-range (WDR) neurons in inflamed rats. Expansion of the receptive fields of nociceptive neurons, a measure of the effect of inflammation-induced CNS plasticity, was less extensive for NS than for WDR neurons in capsaicin-treated rats. Compared to vehicle-treated rats, a smaller population of NS neurons, but a similar percentage of WDR neurons, had background activity in inflamed capsaicin-treated rats. C-fiber strength electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve produced expansion of the receptive fields in a greater portion of NS neurons (53%, P < 0.05) in capsaicin- than in vehicle-treated rats (32%). There was no difference in stimulation-induced expansion of the receptive fields for WDR neurons between vehicle- or capsaicin-treated rats. An N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, MK-801, attenuated the behavioral hyperalgesia and reduced the receptive field size of dorsal horn neurons in inflamed capsaicin- and vehicle-treated rats. The data suggest that while capsaicin-sensitive primary afferents may be involved in neuronal plasticity induced by peripheral tissue inflammation, changes in the capsaicin-insensitive WDR and NS populations are sufficient to produce thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia after the loss of capsaicin-sensitive primary afferents.
Truth-table look-up parallel data processing using an optical content-addressable memory

The extension of truth-table look-up processing beyond primitive operations (such as addition) to higher-level operations (such as discrete matched filtering) is presented. Use of the residue system and logical minimization techniques to reduce the required number of reference patterns stored in a content-addressable memory is illustrated for 16-bit full-precision addition. Multilevel coding of the numbers is introduced as a method to achieve further truth-table reduction. The required number of reference patterns for implementing the residue addition and multiplication operations are provided for all moduli from 2 through 32 with 2-, 3-, and 5-level coding. An optical holographic implementation of a system that processes multilevel coded numbers is presented.
Nitrogen and potassium effects on the macronutrient and micronutrient content of zoysiagrasses.

Abstract Zoysiagrass has more potential for utilization in the Gulf Coast states. There has been minimal research on the nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) fertility response of zoysiagrass and the resulting effect they have on the macronutrient and micronutrient content. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of N and K fertility on the nutrient content of zoysiagrass. A study was conducted on four zoysiagrasses: Zoysiajaponica x Z. tenuifolia Willd. ex Trin. ('Emerald'); Z. japonica Steud. ('El Toro’ and ‘Meyer'); and Z. matrella. The study was a completely randomized design with 3 replications. It was a 2x2 factorial with the factors being N and K at two levels that were imposed on the four zoysiagrass cultivars. The N and K treatment combinations consisted of high (H) and low (L) rates of N and K at the following levels: N levels of 454 and 227 g N 93 m‐2 month‐1 and K levels of 454 and 227 g K 93 m‐2month‐1. The treatment combinations were (N and K): HH, HL, LH, and LL and were applied i...
Action of A ring‐cleaving oxygenase in preventing oxidative darkening of apple juice

Prevention of browning of apple juice by catechol oxidase was brought about through enzymic cleavage of the aromatic ring of juice-darkening constituents. Protocatechuate-3,4-dioxygenase in the presence of ascorbate oxidatively attacked the catechol compounds in juice, nullifying their darkening capacity.
“Partly Disguised Imperialism”: American Critical Internationalists and Philippine Independence

Recent historians have concluded that Philippine formal independence in 1946 was incomplete and unequal. Legislation gave privileges to U.S. businesses which inhibited autonomous economic development, and the new Philippine political leadership did not represent important sections of its people. Such judgments were also voiced at the time by many American “critical internationalists” who believed that the global colonial system must end and feared that the Truman administration was betraying that goal in the Philippines. American veterans who served in the Philippines, journalists with long experience in Asia, returned missionaries, and former Roosevelt administration officials - including, most significantly, Harold Ickes - were among those who believed that the United States was granting only “the shadow of independence.” The essay argues that historians, who, surprisingly, have largely ignored these contemporary views, should pay closer attention to such voices for several reasons, among them their usefulness in rebutting the charge that historians critical of U.S. policy have drawn their conclusions mainly based on hindsight.