cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enzymatic synthesis of polynucleotides. II. Distribution of polynucleotide phosphorylase.

SUMMARY The relative activity toward different nucleoside diphosphates remains essentially unchanged after 500-fold purification of polynucleotide phosphorylase of Azotobacter v&elan&i suggesting that a single enzyme is involved. The purified enzyme, virtually free of nuclease, contains small amounts of an oligoribonucleotide (with adenine, guanine, uracil, and cytosine in similar ratios as in whole cell Azotobacter RNA) which is released on denaturation of the protein. Although we do not know whether this oligonu- cleotide is a prosthetic group or a tightly clinging contaminant, it may act as a primer polynucleotide synthesis by the enzyme. No primer addition is required for the synthesis of polyadenylic acid when relatively large amounts of enzyme or Mg++ are used, but a requirement for added primer becomes apparent with small amounts of either component. Synthesis of polymers containing guanylic acid is always markedly dependent on addition of primer and requires much more enzyme. Under optimal con- ditions, the turnover number for polyadenylic acid synthesis (0.02
Planned Concomitant Left and Right Ventricular Assist Device Insertion to Avoid Long-term Biventricular Mechanical Support: Bridge to Right Ventricular Recovery.

Introduction: The planned use of a temporary right ventricular assist device (RVAD) at the time of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation may prevent the need for a permanent biventricular assist device (BiVAD). Herein we describe our RVAD weaning protocol that was effectively employed in 4 patients to prevent the need for permanent BiVAD. Methods: Four patients in refractory cardiogenic shock underwent planned RVAD insertion during LVAD implantation due to severely depressed right ventricular function with dilation preoperatively. A standardized RVAD weaning protocol was employed in these 4 patients in preparation for decannulation. Results: Temporary RVADs were successfully placed in all 4 patients at the time of LVAD implantation. All patients survived to RVAD decannulation and discharge and were alive at the time of most recent follow-up (range, 528-742 days post–RVAD decannulation). Conclusion: Planned implantation of a temporary RVAD in high risk patients may avoid the need for biventricular mechanical support in the future.
Delimitation of wheat ph1b deletion and development of ph1b-specific DNA markers.

We detected the deletion breakpoints of wheat ph1b mutant and the actual size of the deletion. Also, we developed ph1b deletion-specific markers useful for ph1b-mediated gene introgression and genome studies. The Ph1 (pairing homoeologous) locus has been considered a major genetic system for the diploidized meiotic behavior of the allopolyploid genome in wheat. It functions as a defense system against meiotic homoeologous pairing and recombination in polyploid wheat. A large deletion of the genomic region harboring Ph1 on the long arm of chromosome 5B (5BL) led to the ph1b mutant in hexaploid wheat ‘Chinese Spring,’ which has been widely used to induce meiotic homoeologous recombination for gene introgression from wild grasses into wheat. However, the breakpoints and physical size of the deletion remain undetermined. In the present study, we first anchored the ph1b deletion on 5BL by the high-throughput wheat 90K SNP assay and then delimited the deletion to a genomic region of 60,014,523 bp by chromosome walking. DNA marker and sequence analyses detected the nucleotide positions of the distal and proximal breakpoints (DB and PB) of the ph1b deletion and the deletion junction as well. This will facilitate understanding of the genomic region harboring the Ph1 locus in wheat. In addition, we developed user-friendly DNA markers specific for the ph1b deletion. These new ph1b deletion-specific markers will dramatically improve the efficacy of the ph1b mutant in the meiotic homoeologous recombination-based gene introgression and genome studies in wheat and its relatives.
Perceptions of a Breast Cancer Survivorship Intervention: Pearls of Wisdom from Young African American Women.

Purpose: African American (AA) women ages 20–44 develop breast cancer at higher rates compared with Caucasian women. These young survivors (<45 years) also have disparate quality of life (QOL). Lit...
Interpretation of Biomarker Data in Diagnosis of Primary Dementias.

In the last few years, an improved understanding of dementia biomarkers has significantly increased the diagnostic accuracy for dementias. The National Institutes of Health Biomarkers Definitions Working Group defines a biomarker as “a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a therapeutic intervention.” In the field of dementia, a biomarker is a biological measure pointing to a specific dementing pathology. Dementia biomarkers may also serve as surrogates for disease progression and as endpoints in clinical trials. Dementia biomarkers are best characterized for Alzheimer's disease, which is the most common form of primary dementia. The current “biological” conception of Alzheimer's disease is based on consideration of three biomarkers: amyloid, tau, and “neurodegeneration.” The status of these biomarkers may be determined by cerebrospinal fluid clinical chemistry or imaging. Biomarkers for other primary dementias are less reliable and rely chiefly on structural and functional imaging. When appropriate, genetic testing may help with diagnostic certainty in hereditary forms of dementia.
Chapter 23 – Pituitary Gland

The functioning of the avian pituitary is comprehensively reviewed encompassing the structure and functioning of the pituitary gland and neuroendocrine hypothalamus. The avian pituitary gland and neuroendocrine hypothalamus includes the pars distalis or anterior pituitary gland, the pars nervosa or posterior pituitary gland, the infundibular stalk and median eminence. Detailed consideration is given to each of the traditionally accepted hormones of the anterior pituitary gland or pars distalis, namely including the gonadotropins—luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone, thyrotropin, prolactin, growth hormone, and adenocorticotropic hormone together with its precursor, pro-opiomelanocortin. The chemistry, expression, physiology, receptors, and control of each of the hormones are covered. Consideration is given to other and novel neuropeptides/hormones produced in the anterior pituitary gland. Recent progress is elucidating both the microanatomy and the functioning of the pars tuberalis is discussed. The chemistry and roles of the posterior pituitary hormones or neuropeptides, arginine vasotocin and mesotocin, are discussed.
Increased blood pressure visit-to-visit variability in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: association with inflammation and comorbidity burden:

BackgroundBlood pressure visit-to-visit variability is a novel risk factor for deleterious long-term cardiac and renal outcomes in the general population. We hypothesized that patients with systemi...
Prairie Prosperity: An Economic Guide for the State of North Dakota

In this report, we examine the history of North Dakota’s state finances and explore the policies that led to the current environment. We evaluate the institutional settings and circumstances that caused North Dakota to move from being revered for its financial solvency to enacting massive spending cuts during the 2017 legislative session. We then turn to policy proposals that address state fiscal challenges and put North Dakota on a pathway to prosperity.
Biomechanical evaluation of a full length T S synthetic lumbar spine model

Cadaveric tissue based testing is the standard method for biomechanically evaluating spinal instrumentation Synthetic lumbar spine models have been developed and are commercially available as a cost saving alternative to human tissue Validation studies have been done on single lumbar motion segment units MSU and partial synthetic lumbar models A full length synthetic lumbar spine model T to sacrum has become available that can serve as an alternative to tissue but the biomechanical structural properties are not available Additional kinematic parameters like center of rotation COR and instantaneous axes of rotation IAR also do not exist The objectives of this study were to determine the flexion extension stiffness properties of a full length synthetic lumbar spine model and to define the segmental and global kinematic parameters The synthetic lumbar model was mounted in a robotic testing platform and tested using pure moment loads and N axial compression between deg flexion and deg extension Global position of each vertebra was measured and used to calculate the global COR and global and local IAR values of each MSU Rotational stiffness global COR and local and global IAR parameters were calculated every deg change in deg increments MSU rotational responses were normalized to the total rotation and expressed as a percent contribution Rot All spinal levels were involved in contributing to the overall motion and the Rot was within standard deviations of similar rotational data sets from in vivo studies and in vitro tests on cadaveric spines The CORs of each MSU were located near the mid point of their respective IAR path Global IAR paths were approximately mid distance between the respective spinal level and the fixed sacral body The biomechanical properties of the full length synthetic lumbar model were comparable to in vivo and in vitro studies supporting its use in other testing applications
Early Peri-operative Outcomes Were Unchanged in Patients Undergoing Spine Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic in New York City.

BackgroundHealthcare resources have been greatly limited by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic halting non-essential surgical cases without clear service expa...
Psychological sense of community, community civic participation, and ethnic identity on social justice orientation and psychological empowerment between LGBQ and Non-LGBQ youth of color

For lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning (LGBQ) youth of color, the intersection of identifying as both LGBQ and a person of color results in not only managing racial stereotypes, but also heter...
A stepwise approach utilizing a double helix wire technique, snare capture and a switch from a transfemoral to transradial approach to remove an entrapped balloon.

Abstract During an attempted PCI utilizing a femoral approach, a balloon became entrapped in the Left Circumflex Artery. Initial retrieval efforts including pulling the balloon and inflating a second balloon over the entrapment failed, the balloon fractured, and the distal end of the balloon apparatus migrated out of the guide catheter. We utilized a stepwise approach with a double helix wiring technique, snares and a change from a transfemoral to transradial approach to successfully retrieve the foreign bodies. This case highlights the importance of utilizing multiple techniques in series and understanding anatomical influences on equipment retrieval when single techniques and approaches fail.
Protective Factors as a Unifying Framework for Strength-Based Intervention and Culturally Responsive American Indian and Alaska Native Suicide Prevention

The ongoing challenge of American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) youth suicide is a public health crisis of relatively recent historical origin inadequately addressed by contemporary prevention science. A promising development in AIAN suicide prevention highlights the role of protective factors. A protective factor framework adopts a social ecological perspective and community-level intervention paradigm. Emphasis on protection highlights strength-based AIAN cultural strategies in prevention of youth suicide. Attention to multiple intersecting levels incorporates strategies promoting community as well as individual resilience processes, seeking to influence larger contexts as well as individuals within them. This approach expands the scope of suicide prevention strategies beyond the individual level and tertiary prevention strategies. Interventions that focus on mechanisms of protection offer a rigorous, replicable, and complementary prevention science alternative to risk reduction approaches. This selected review critically examines recent AIAN protective factor suicide prevention science. One aim is to clarify key concepts including protection, resilience, and cultural continuity. A broader aim is to describe the evolution of this promising new framework for conducting primary research about AIAN suicide, and for designing and testing more effective intervention. Recommendations emphasize focus on mechanisms, multilevel interactions, more precise use of theory and terms, implications for new intervention development, alertness to unanticipated impacts, and culture as fundamental in a protective factors framework for AIAN suicide prevention. A protective factor framework holds significant potential for advancing AIAN suicide prevention and for work with other culturally distinct suicide disparity groups, with broad implications for other areas of prevention science.
Spacecraft Payload Maximization Using Realistic Multi-Mode Models of Electric Propulsion Systems

This paper proposes an overarching trajectory-power-propulsion co-optimization framework by incorporating actual discrete operation modes of electric thrusters within the optimal control formulation of spacecraft trajectory design. An interplanetary trajectory from Earth to comet 67P/Churyu-mov-Gerasimenko is formulated and solved using a spacecraft that is equipped with a thruster with 21 operation modes. It is the first time a systematic methodology is devised to select the most optimal operation modes in accordance with Pontryagin's minimum principle (PMP) to solve a payload-maximization trajectory design problem. It is also shown that there is a possibility to obtain near-optimal solutions with a reduced number of modes and negligible loss of optimality. The maximum payload useful mass solution is shown to have significant advantage over the traditionalfinal-mass-maximization formulation.
Book review: Vazira Zamindar and Asad Ali (Eds.), Love, War and Other Longings: Essays on Cinema in Pakistan:

Vazira Zamindar and Asad Ali (Eds.), Love, War and Other Longings: Essays on Cinema in Pakistan. Karachi: Oxford University Press, 2020, 274 pp., $15.00. ISBN-13: 978-0190701857.
Identification and Estimation of Games with Incomplete Information Using Excluded Regressors, Second Version

We show nonparametric point identification of static binary games with incomplete information, using excluded regressors. An excluded regressor for player i is a state variable that does not affect other players’ utility and is additively separable from other components in i’s payoff. When excluded regressors are conditionally independent from private information, the interaction effects between players and the marginal effects of excluded regressors on payoff are identified. In addition, if excluded regressors vary sufficiently relative to the support of private information, then the full payoff functions and the distribution of private information are also nonparametrically identified. We illustrate how excluded regressors satisfying these conditions arise in contexts such as entry games between firms, as variation in observed components of fixed costs. We extend our approach to accommodate the existence of multiple Bayesian Nash equilibria in the data-generating process without assuming equilibrium selection rules. For a semiparametric model with linear payoff, we propose root-N consistent and asymptotically normal estimators for parameters in players’ payoffs.
A novel Ca2+ pump expressed in brain, kidney, and stomach is encoded by an alternative transcript of the slow-twitch muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca-ATPase gene. Identification of cDNAs encoding Ca2+ and other cation-transporting ATPases using an oligonucleotide probe derived from the ATP-binding site.

Abstract We describe the results of a study designed to identify cDNAs encoding Ca2+-transporting ATPases and other cation-transporting ATPases of the aspartylphosphate class. Rat brain, kidney, and stomach cDNA libraries were screened with an oligonucleotide hybridization probe corresponding to a 23-amino acid sequence from part of the ATP-binding site of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca-ATPase. This procedure resulted in the isolation of cDNAs encoding (i) the plasma membrane Ca-ATPase, (ii) an apparent Ca-ATPase that exhibits high amino acid similarity to the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pumps, (iii) a transport ATPase of unknown ion specificity and (iv) two Ca-ATPase isoforms encoded by the gene for the slow-twitch muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca-ATPase. Several isoforms of the Na,K-ATPase and gastric H,K-ATPase that had been characterized previously were also identified. The complete nucleotide sequences have been determined for the two classes of cDNA derived from alternatively spliced transcripts of the slow-twitch muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca-ATPase gene. One of these cDNAs, isolated from the stomach library, encodes a Ca-ATPase that is identical to the skeletal muscle enzyme. The second class of cDNA, found in brain, kidney, and stomach libraries, is identical to that of the slow-twitch isoform throughout much of its length but encodes an alternative C terminus and has a different 3'-untranslated sequence. Whereas the muscle isoform consists of 997 amino acids and terminates with the sequence Ala-Ile-Leu-Glu, the second isoform is 1043 amino acids in length due to the replacement of these last 4 amino acids with a 50-amino acid sequence that contains a potential transmembrane domain followed by a consensus sequence for an N-linked glycosylation site.
Recycling of Carpet and Textile Fibers

Most of the fibrous waste is composed of natural and synthetic polymeric materials such as cotton, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, among others. Table 1 presents the amount of fibrous waste including textiles and carpet. In 1996, approximately 6.8 million tons of textile waste was discarded, and 2.3 million tons of carpets and rugs (carpet contains fiber, rubber, and inorganic filler) were generated in the municipal solid waste. About 1% of carpet waste was recovered for recycling (Table 1). In comparison, 20 million tons of plastics were generated and 6% was recovered, and 4 million tons of rubber tire waste was generated and 19% was recovered in the United States.
The Exocyst Complex in Polarized Exocytosis

Abstract Exocytosis is an essential membrane traffic event mediating the secretion of intracellular protein contents such as hormones and neurotransmitters as well as the incorporation of membrane proteins and lipids to specific domains of the plasma membrane. As a fundamental cell biological process, exocytosis is crucial for cell growth, cell–cell communication, and cell polarity establishment. For most eukaryotic cells exocytosis is polarized. A multiprotein complex, named the exocyst, is required for polarized exocytosis from yeast to mammals. The exocyst consists of eight components: Sec3, Sec5, Sec6, Sec8, Sec10, Sec15, Exo70, and Exo84. They are localized to sites of active exocytosis, where they mediate the targeting and tethering of post-Golgi secretory vesicles for subsequent membrane fusion. Here we review the progress made in the understanding of the exocyst and its role in polarized exocytosis.
Complement-fixing antigens of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2: reactivity of capsid, envelope, and soluble antigens.

Abstract Capsid, envelope, and nonvirion-associated soluble components of type 1 and type 2 herpes simplex virus (HSV) were obtained from infected monolayer cell cultures and used as complement fixation (CF) antigens. Capsids were prepared by treatment of cells with the nonionic detergent Nonidet-P40, envelope material by treatment of virions with ether and high pH, and soluble components were obtained from culture fluids of untreated cells. Serological studies with experimental anti-herpesvirus sera indicate that these serotypes share cross-reacting envelope, capsid, and soluble antigens with each other and with herpesvirus B but not with varicella virus. In addition, animals immunized with crude HSV preparations contain high levels of CF antibody (1:32 to 1:64) to soluble antigens, whereas sera from humans who have experienced natural infection contain low levels of antibody (≤1:8) to this antigen. Further testing with reference, capsid, and envelope antigens indicates that antibody levels to reference and capsid antigens are about the same in sera from healthy humans, whereas antibody to the envelope is decidedly lower in these sera. Herpes convalescent-phase sera contain higher levels of antibody to reference and envelope antigens than to capsid antigen.
The anthropologist, the state, the empire and the ‘tribe’

This review of Akbar Ahmed's The thistle and the drone finds that the book opens new dimensions for understanding the relations between state and peripheral groups.
Contexts of the commitment–citizenship link: A test of economic volatility in a dual organization setting

Abstract Research interest on the commitment–performance link persists, and recent efforts have focused on investigating the contextual factors due to the mixed outcome of the empirical studies. However, very limited study has examined the influence of economic factors including economic volatility, and none in the dual setting of the organization and the union. This study investigated the contextual influence of perceived inflation—an economic volatility construct—on commitment and extra-role performance. Exchange theory, with support from psychological contract and equity theories, was used to postulate two parallel, but competing models of the organization and the union. Using a sample of 247 unionized employees in southern U.S.A., the study tested the moderating effect of perceived inflation on the relation between commitment and citizenship intent. The results revealed three-way interactive effects in both models, in a dual commitment setting. Thus, the economic volatility construct acts as a situational constraint on the link between the attitudinal-based commitments and citizenship intent, but in the contexts of obligation and cost-based commitments to the organization and the union respectively. The implications of these mitigated effects are discussed.
Segregation of Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus into Genotypes

Isolates of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) were segregated into two groups based on comparison of sequences from the 5' untranslated region (UTR) of the viral genome. Phylogenic analysis suggested that these groups, termed BVDV I and BVDV II, are as different from each other as reference BVDV (BVDV-NADL, BVDV-SD-1, BVDV-Osloss) are from hog cholera virus. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, based on the 5' untranslated region and the genomic region coding for the p125 polypeptide, were designed to differentiate between BVDV I and BVDV II. Using these tests, 76 of 140 isolates of BVDV were identified as BVDV II. Antigenic and pathologic differences were noted between BVDV I and BVDV II viruses. Among BVDV I were viruses commonly used in vaccine production, diagnostic tests, and research. BVDV II was isolated predominantly from fetal bovine sera, persistently infected calves born to dams vaccinated against BVDV, and cattle that had died from an acute form of BVDV termed hemorrhagic syndrome.
Follicular helper T cells in immunity and systemic autoimmunity

Follicular helper T (T(FH)) cells are essential for B-cell maturation and immunoglobulin production after immunization with thymus-dependent antigens. Nevertheless, the development and function of T(FH) cells have been less clearly defined than classic CD4(+) effector T-cell subsets, including T-helper-1 (T(H)1), T(H)2 and T(H)17 cells. As such, our understanding of the genesis of T(FH) cells in humans and their role in the development of autoimmunity remains incomplete. However, evidence from animal models of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and patients with systemic autoimmune diseases suggests that these cells are necessary for pathogenic autoantibody production, in a manner analogous to their role in promotion of B-cell maturation during normal immune responses. In this Review, I discuss the findings that have increased our knowledge of T(FH)-cell development and function in normal and aberrant immune responses. Such information might improve our understanding of autoimmune diseases, such as SLE, and highlights the potential of T(FH) cells as therapeutic targets in these diseases.
Paleoecological record of hurricane disturbance and forest regeneration in Nicaragua

Studying infrequent phenomena (e.g. hurricanes) and slow processes (e.g. forest regeneration) greatly challenges the ecological techniques of real-time studies. By combining the two relatively new approaches of paleotempestology and fine-resolution palynology, this study provides insight into the impacts of hurricanes and the post-hurricane regeneration of forests. I analyzed a 5-m sediment core from a swamp lagoon on the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua that covered the entire 8000-yr history of the swamp [Urquhart, G. R., 1997. Disturbance and regeneration of swamp forests in Nicaragua: evidence from Ecology and Paleoecology. Ph.D. Dissertation, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA]. X-rays revealed a sand layer dating to c. 3300 BP of the type deposited by hurricanes. Pollen analyses showed this sand layer was followed by major changes in vegetation and fires. This pattern is identical to the wake of Hurricane Joan, which struck the area in 1988 and left 90,000 hectares of damaged swamp forest that burned shortly after. After the prehistoric hurricane, forest vegetation did not return until 500 yr later, due to repeated burning. This parallel event of the past illustrates a possible course for modern forest regeneration. As a counterpart to direct ecological analysis, fine-resolution paleoecological study can provide great insight for the study of rare events and slow processes.
Providing Vitamin B12, Antibiotic and Unknown Growth Factor Activity for Chick Diets

Abstract THE isolation of vitamin B12 in 1948 and the subsequent production of concentrates of vitamin B12 and antibiotics has resulted in many studies with these substances. Briggs, Hill and Giles (1950) and Machlin, Denton, Kellogg and Bird (1952) have reviewed the literature pertaining to these factors. This report covers experimental work started in 1948 with some of the early concentrates of vitamin B12 and includes more recent studies with crystalline antibiotics and vitamin B12. EXPERIMENTAL New Hampshire chicks from hens fed a ration deficient in vitamin B12 were used unless otherwise indicated. Chicks were reared in back-warmer type battery brooders under the usual conditions of feeding and management. The basal diets used in most of the studies are given in Table 1. Solvent soybean oil meals were used in all experiments except those reported in Tables 2 and 3. Crystalline vitamins, penicillin, and streptomycin were provided through the courtesy of . . .
Calcium Sensitivity, Force Frequency Relation and Cardiac Troponin I: Critical Role of PKA and PKC Phosphorylation Sites

Transgenic models with mutants of cardiac troponin I, cTnI-PKA S22,23D (cTnIDD22,23) or cTnI-PKC S22A,S23D,S42,S44D (cTnI PKA/PKC) displayed differential force-frequency relationships (FFR) in vivo. We hypothesized that these cTnI phospho-mimics would impact cardiac muscle force development and Ca2+ sensitivity in opposite directions in a rate dependent fashion. Our study shows that cTnIDD22,23 increases (while cTnI PKA/PKC decreases) its ability to generate normal force per unit of [Ca2+]i when stimulation frequency increases. Force-[Ca2+]I hysteresis-loops revealed that cTnIDD22,23 shows an increased calcium sensitivity in the activation phase of force-[Ca2+]i loops at 1 to 4 Hz when compared to NTG (Figure1E). An integrated computational model that encompasses electrophysiology, Ca2+ dynamics, contractile and mitochondrial activity (ECME model) indicates that these cTnI mutants might change the association-dissociation constants for Ca2+ binding, both the low- and/or high-affinity binding sites, of troponin complex. Our data indicate that cTnI phosphorylation at PKA sites is a crucial mediator of the FFR by increasing the frequency-dependent myofilament sensitivity; which might be achieved by adaptive changes on association-dissociation constants for Ca2+ binding of the troponin complex.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
Can House Finches ( Carpodacus mexicanus ) use non-visual cues to discriminate the carotenoid content of foods?

Carotenoid pigments are involved in different physiological processes (e.g., immunoenhancement, antioxidant activity) in addition to coloring plumage and integuments. As animals cannot synthesize these pigments de novo, it has been proposed that carotenoids constitute a limiting resource that birds may specifically seek in their food. Confirming this hypothesis, it was recently found that birds can discriminate between carotenoid-enriched diets and control diets, even if both have the same color, suggesting that there may be underlying non-visual (e.g., olfactory, taste) mechanisms for detecting carotenoid presence or enrichment in foods. In this study, we performed two experiments with male House Finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) to test if this species is able to discriminate between (1) carotenoid-enriched and plain sunflower seeds (while controlling for food coloration), and (2) plain seeds scented with β-ionone, which is a carotenoid-degradation product that is common in many fruits and is one of the most powerful flavor-active organic compounds, or a sham odorant. We found that finches did not show significant food preferences in either experiment, indicating that they did not use odor or flavor cues associated with carotenoids to discriminate between foods. However, our results do not rule out the possibilities that other flavors or odors can be used in discrimination or that finches may learn to discriminate flavors and odors over longer periods of time or at other times of year through post-ingestive feedback mechanisms.
Predicting dietborne metal toxicity from metal influxes.

Dietborne metal uptake prevails for many species in nature. However, the links between dietary metal exposure and toxicity are not well understood. Sources of uncertainty include the lack of suitable tracers to quantify exposure for metals such as copper, the difficulty to assess dietary processes such as food ingestion rate, and the complexity to link metal bioaccumulation and effects. We characterized dietborne copper, nickel, and cadmium influxes in a freshwater gastropod exposed to diatoms labeled with enriched stable metal isotopes. Metal influxes in Lymnaea stagnalis correlated linearly with dietborne metal concentrations over a range encompassing most environmental exposures. Dietary Cd and Ni uptake rate constants (kuf) were, respectively, 3.3 and 2.3 times higher than that for Cu. Detoxification rate constants (kdetox) were similar among metals and appeared 100 times higher than efflux rate constants (ke). Extremely high Cu concentrations reduced feeding rates, causing the relationship between ex...
Factor V binding to human platelets: The role of divalent cations and of platelet preparatory methods

Abstract The binding of bovine factor V to human platelets has been studied to ascertain the influence of divalent cations as well as the manner of preparation of platelet suspensions. The binding of factor V to platelets was inhibited by EDTA and EGTA and required calcium (optimum concentration 5mM) but not magnesium. Factor V bound to a single class of low affinity sites in unstimulated gel filtered platelets with a K d of 3.42 × 10 −8 M. Approximately, 2,340 factor V molecules were bound per platelet. Stimulation with the calcium ionophore A23187 or ADP and fibrinogen and inhibition with prostaglandins E 1 (PGE 1 ) or prostaglandins I 2 (PGI 2 ) failed to alter these constants. However, washing platelets by repeated centrifugation even in the presence of inhibitors of platelet activation decreased the number of binding sites to 1200 without change in the K d . These studies demonstrate a requirement for calcium in the physiological range for factor V binding to platelets, establish that washed platelets bind fewer factor V molecules than gel filtered platelets, and indicate that stimulation or inhibition of platelet function does not affect factor V binding.
Determination of Required Insulation for Preventing Early-Age Cracking in Mass Concrete Footings

One of the methods for controlling the heat of hydration of mass concrete structures is to insulate the poured concrete. Currently, no method can provide adequate insulation to prevent early-age cracking for mass concrete footings. This study developed a method for determining the required insulation for rectangular footings. The study included isothermal calorimetry testing of cementitious materials, field monitoring of temperature in footings, and finite element modeling. A fully insulated bridge pier footing constructed in the field in Florida was monitored for temperature development and for assessing the efficiency of the insulation used. A parametric study consisting of 63 finite element analyses was conducted on three footing shape—cubic footing, 4:4:1 footing (length-width-depth ratio of 4:4:1), and 4:2:1 footing (length-width-depth ratio of 4:2:1)—to determine the required insulation for footings with a volume-to-surface area ratio ranging from 1.1 to 13.1 ft. The obtained results suggest that th...
A new scheme for particle shape characterization based on fractal harmonics and fractal dimensions

Abstract Although fractal analysis, yielding one or more fractal dimensions, has been used to characterize rough particles, it provides little information on the macroscopic particle shape. It is proposed that conventional fractal analysis is retained for characterization of the surface structure and that the macroscopic shape and largest features are described using fractal harmonics. These describe the ability to construct within the shape two diametrically opposed points (2nd harmonic), equilateral triangles (3rd) and rhombuses (4th) within certain geometric constraints. The scheme is able to distinguish various shapes, both geometric and irregular.
Performance Characteristics of a Concentric Annular Heat Pipe: Part I—Experimental Prediction and Analysis of the Capillary Limit

This paper describes the design, testing, and theoretical capillary limit prediction of a new heat pipe configuration, which is the concentric annular heat pipe. The concentric annular vapor space. With this arrangement, capillary wicks can be placed on both the inside of the outer pipe and the outside of the inner pipe. This design heat pipes, since the cross-sectional area of the wick as well as the surface area for heating and cooling are increased. The heat pipe was tested for the temperature distribution in the three sections of the heat pipe under various tilt angles and heating loads through the inner and outer pipes in the evaporator section. A simple analysis for the prediction of the capillary limitation of the concentric annular heat pipe is presented.
Improving influenza vaccination rates for children through year-round scheduling.

Objective Barriers to influenza vaccination negatively impact immunization rates contributing to the morbidity and mortality from influenza. This study sought to determine if 1) the availability of year-round scheduling of annual autumn/winter influenza vaccination was associated with improved immunization rates for 2 high-risk populations of children and 2) this system was associated with early season vaccine administration. Methods A retrospective cohort analysis was utilized to compare immunization rates during the 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 seasons. Billing records were used to determine eligible patients and vaccine receipt. A single, pediatric practice was studied, and two groups of patients were analyzed: 1) infants aged 6-23 months and 2) children Results In Year 1, 552/1365 (40.4%) infants received at least 1 dose of influenza vaccine compared to 940/1265 (74.3%) in Year 2 ( p p p Conclusions Year-round scheduling of influenza vaccination was associated with improved immunization rates in two high-risk populations, and may remove the barrier of scheduling difficulty, allow for a consistent year-round message from providers, and improve timing of vaccine administration.
Application of a screened INDO model (INDO/S) to spectroscopic properties of TCNQ and its anions

An INDO model Hamiltonian, incorporating screening within the π-system and parametrized particularly to describe dynamical properties (photoemission and optical spectra), is applied to TCNQ and its mono- and dianion. The description of the photoelectron spectrum, the optical excitation spectra with their oscillator strengths, and the charge distributions, ground state as well as excited state, turn out reasonably well, although some difficulties are encountered with the highly charged species. A correlation between bond order changes and the frequency changes of vibrational normal modes as observed by resonance Raman spectroscopy is attempted.
Identification and Analysis of Hydrodynamic and Transport Characteristics of Cannonsville Reservoir

ABSTRACT A monitoring program consisting of regular observations of temperature and conductivity in the tributaries to and water column of Cannonsville Reservoir from April through November of 1995 is described. The results are analyzed in order to identify and quantify transport processes that affect the distribution of heat and mass constituents. The low temperature of the major reservoir tributary relative to reservoir surface waters in late summer and fall is observed to cause a plunging inflow or negatively-buoyant density current in the reservoir, although evidence is provided that the plunging inflow is not the cause of the observed metalimnetic oxygen minima. A seasonal increase in the specific conductivity of the major tributary in summer creates a longitudinal gradient in conductivity in the epilimnion of the reservoir. A simple analytical model is used to estimate the longitudinal dispersion coefficient in the epilimnion over the summer based on this conductivity gradient. High-frequency observ...
Thermal requirements of Aphelinus albipodus (Hayat and Fatima) (Hym., Aphelinidae) on Diuraphis noxia (Mordwilko) (Hom., Aphididae) hosts

: The thermal requirements, t and K, and upper developmental thresholds for three developmental periods in Aphelinus albipodus, a parasite imported to the USA for biological control of Diuraphis noxia, were investigated under laboratory conditions. Studies were conducted at constant temperatures in the range 10.0–29.4°C, 14 L:10D photoperiod, and 50–70% R.H. Total developmental time (from egg to adult) in A. albipodus increased from 10.1 days at 29.4°C to 27.9 days at 15.5°C. Adult parasites did not emerge from mummies at 10°C (although pharate adults were recovered by dissection). The thermal requirements for the egg-mummy, mummy-adult, and egg-adult developmental periods were estimated, respectively, as t = 7.62, 9.15, and 8.56°C, and K = 100.30, 107.31, and 208.24 degree-days. The upper developmental threshold was considered to be above 29.4°C because development did not cease and did not appear to be affected by that temperature. The possibility of hibernal dormancy or diapause as well as the potential for successful establishment in California, USA, in A. albipodus are discussed.
Impurity induced vibrational spectra in BaF2:H-

Abstract An experimental study of the impurity induced Raman scattering and infrared absorption spectra in BaF2:H- is reported. The H- local mode sidebands are observed by Raman scattering for the first time, and are seen to agree with those observed by infrared absorption. In contrast to earlier work a T2 symmetry phonon resonance is observed in the infrared sidebands at 285 cm-1 and is also observed directly in first-order Raman scattering, although with a different temperature dependence for the half-width. Lastly, an impurity-induced band of predominantly A1 symmetry is also seen directly in first-order Raman scattering, and lies in the acoustic phonon region of the host BaF2.
α-Synuclein Immunotherapy Blocks Uptake and Templated Propagation of Misfolded α-Synuclein and Neurodegeneration

Accumulation of misfolded alpha-synuclein (α-syn) into Lewy bodies (LBs) and Lewy neurites (LNs) is a major hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with LBs (DLB). Recent studies showed that synthetic preformed fibrils (pffs) recruit endogenous α-syn and induce LB/LN pathology in vitro and in vivo, thereby implicating propagation and cell-to-cell transmission of pathological α-syn as mechanisms for the progressive spread of LBs/LNs. Here, we demonstrate that α-syn monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) reduce α-syn pff-induced LB/LN formation and rescue synapse/neuron loss in primary neuronal cultures by preventing both pff uptake and subsequent cell-to-cell transmission of pathology. Moreover, intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of mAb specific for misfolded α-syn into nontransgenic mice injected intrastriatally with α-syn pffs reduces LB/LN pathology, ameliorates substantia nigra dopaminergic neuron loss, and improves motor impairments. We conclude that α-syn antibodies could exert therapeutic effects in PD/DLB by blocking entry of pathological α-syn and/or its propagation in neurons.
“Homo‐ and copolymers of vinyl esters, acrylates, and methacrylates of some derivatives of fatty acids”

Vinyl esters of some undecylenic acid derivatives and acrylates and methacrylates of undecyl and undecylenyl alcohols, which may be considered as derivaties of castor oil, have been polymerized and copolymerized with vinyl chloride to provide a variety of new polymers. The acrylate and the methacrylate of undecylenyl alcohol have been epoxidized to yield two new polymerizable monomers of potential usefulness as crosslinking agents in finished copolymers.
Hemispheric specialization for speech opposed, by contralateral noise

Twenty right-handed Ss listened to a dichotic tape in which one of six consonant-vowel syllables was paired with a burst of white noise on each trial. Eight blocks of 40 trials were presented, with the syllables within a block presented to, the same ear. On each trial, Ss decided if/ ba/ was presented. Mean RT to right-ear items was 440.0 msec, while mean left-ear RT was 453.6 msec. Responses indicating the presence of /ba/ were made significantly more quickly than responses indicating its absence, with no significant interaction of ear and type of decision. This study demonstrated a right-ear advantage in the perception of spoken syllables when noise is presented to the opposite ear. An interpretation of the RT differences between ears in terms of callosal transmission time is discussed, and implications of this study for the perceptual origins of the ear advantage effect are considered.
Solar optical properties of windows

To properly calculate dynamic solar gain in buildings, one must know the optical properties of the window in detail. In this paper, we develop a complete set of calculation procedures for determining the solar transmittance, reflectance, and absorptance of a window composed of an arbitrary number of partially transparent layers. Any layer may have a thin-film multilayer coating, such as an anti-reflection coating for increasing solar transmittance, a solar control film for reducing solar heat gain, or a transparent heat-reflecting mirror for improving thermal resistance. The results of sample calculations are given over the range of incidence angles for conventional and advanced energy conserving window designs.
Prefabricated ossicular homografts in middle ear reconstructions.

Prefabricated ossicular homografts in middle ear reconstructions This paper is a review of 132 cases of ossicular reconstruction utilizing prefabricated homografts by clinical staff members of the UCLA Division of Head and Neck Surgery (specializing in ear surgery) in their private practice over the past decade. Another 20 cases completed over the past 2½ years in the UCLA teaching programme are also reviewed. Although ossicular homografts have been used for some time in middle ear reconstruction, this report presents the innovation of prefabricating homografts into specific shapes that lend themselves appropriately to reconstruction problems. In such an ossicular bank, a variety of different shapes, in a number of sizes, is maintained for quick selection. This greatly decreases operating room time and, in addition, provides an effective method for ossicular reconstruction that has already been applied to a resident training programme. The cases in this review can be divided into 3 basic categories: (1) mastoidectomy ossicular reconstruction; (2) exploratory tympanotomy with reconstruction; (3) stapedectomy. This study indicates that ossicular homografts are very well tolerated in their new transplanted positions. Our very low extrusion rate, extremely rare evidence of absorption, and lack of foreign body reaction to these ossicles coincides with the experience of others. This is an advantage over plastic prostheses. In addition to pre- and postoperative air conduction level data, analysis of changes in bone conduction and speech discrimination scores are also presented to evaluate possible neurosensory damage related to manipulation in placing these ossicles.
MEASURING INTERNAL STRATEGIC CHOICE DECISIONS AND THEIR LINKAGES TO THE REWARD STRUCTURE: A CASE STUDY IN A HIGH TECHNOLOGY FIRM

Assessing Internal Strategic Choice Decisions The strategic choice models of Child, Galbraith, Thompson, and related work by Ansoff, Chakravarthy and Miles and Snow provide important extensions to strategic management and structural contingency theory. The strategic choice models and related “strategy of structure” work bring to the surface many additional intra‐organisational variables in the organisation‐environment linkage. As a consequence, the range of internal design options available to management for adapting to the organisation's environment is greatly extended. As Miles points out:
Flat Versus Differentiated Transit Pricing: What's a Fair Fare?

Virtually every U.S. bus system today charges its customers flat fares. Recent trends, however, suggest that passengers are traveling farther and proportionally more during peak hours, factors which have contributed toward transit's cost spiral. As deficits continue to soar and available funding tightens, current pricing rationales must be seriously questioned. This paper assesses the efficiency and equity impacts of three California transit agencies' fare structures. Short-distance, off-peak patrons are found to heavily cross-subsidize long-haul commuters. Fares differentiated by distance and time-of-day, in contrast, could improve the transit industry's fiscal posture while eliminating differences in payment rates. Barriers to their implementation remain formidable, however, both in terms of current fare collection capabilities and political acceptability.