cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The non-venom insect phospholipases A2

Abstract Phospholipases A2 (PLA2s) are responsible for releasing the fatty acid moiety from the sn-2 position of phospholipids. These enzymes are virtually ubiquitous proteins known from all major biological taxa. Various PLA2s act in a wide array of biological processes, including digestion of dietary lipids, cellular homeostasis, intra- and intercellular signaling, host defense and at least a few ecological interactions. PLA2 activities have been recorded in a small number of insect species, which can be taken to represent the broad group, Insecta. Within insects, PLA2s act in functions expected from the background on these enzymes. So far, we know PLA2s act in lipid digestion, cellular host defense signaling, reproduction and in organismal-level metabolism. Additional PLA2 actions are certain to emerge. This is the first article devoted to assembling the known information on insect PLA2s. I review the scant information available on the biological actions of PLA2s in insects, relate new findings on insect pathogens that disrupt insect immune functions by inhibiting PLA2s and mention the few reports of sequence information on insect PLA2s. Finally, I offer a brief prospectus on future research into insect PLA2s. There are two overarching points in this paper. One, there remains a great deal to learn about insect PLA2s and two, some of the findings on insect PLA2s will have meaningful practical significance.
Absorption spectrum of nickel in gallium phosphide.

Optical absorption spectra of Ni impurity in GaP due to d shell transitions, measuring crystal field parameters, noting fine structure
Condition of Wings is an Important Criterion of Bat Health: A Response to Francl et al.

Wing damage is not used to confirm WNS: In response to elevated prevalence of wing damage in bats near WNS-affected hibernacula in 2008, we proposed a wing damage index (WDI) to objectively monitor wing conditions of bats in the field (Reichard and Kunz, 2009). Francl et al. suggested WDI is used ‘‘...as a proxy for measuring population-level infection’’ with WNS (Francl et al., 2011), but wing damage is only one field sign associated with WNS and does not confirm WNSpositive bats. Instead, WNS is diagnosed by histopathologic confirmation of cutaneous infections attributed to a recently introduced fungus, Geomyces destructans (Meteyer et al., 2009; USGS, 2011). Thus, we argue that suggesting use of WDI as a proxy for infection is inappropriate and misleading.
Assessment of Combustion Characteristics and Mechanism of Hydroxylammonium Nitrate-Based Liquid Monopropellant

The combustion characteristics and reaction mechanism of a HAN-based liquid monopropellant (HANGLY26, consisting of 60% HAN, 14% glycine, and 26% water by weight ) were investigated. Combustion tests of liquid strands formed in test tubes were performed in an optically accessible strand burner. Fine-wire thermocouples were also installed in the strand to measure the temperature distribution of the reaction zone. The burning rate of HANGLY26 exhibited four burning rate regimes for pressures ranging from 1.5 to 18.2 MPa. No luminous e ame was observed in any combustion tests. The temperatures of combustion products in the test tube were found to be near the water boiling points at pressures below 8.8 MPa. For pressures above 8.8 MPa, the product temperatures were found to be lower than the boiling points of water. Slope break points for burning rate vs pressure were found to coincide with those of concentration curves of recovered residues vs pressure. The observed slope breaks in burning rates are shown to be associated with the reaction mechanism changes between adjacent pressure regimes. Major species detected from the recovered liquid residues are nitrogen, nitric oxide, carbon dioxide, and formaldehyde. The pyrolysis of the fresh unburned liquid propellant was also studied. The results were compared with those of the recovered liquid residues.
Overallocation, conflict, and water transfers

Grantham and Viers' article 100 years of California's water rights system: patterns, trends, and uncertainty Grantham and Viers (2014 Environ. Res. Lett. 9 084012) makes valuable contributions by mapping the disparities between California's legal allocations of water and actual water availability. This perspective article explains that those results both over- and understate the potential for conflict, but they nevertheless provide useful information for water policy analysts and educators. The results also provide compelling evidence of the need for water transfers and, unfortunately, the practical difficulties associated with achieving those transfers.
Efficient excitation of the TE 01 hollow metal waveguide mode for atom guiding

We demonstrate excitation of the azimuthally-polarized TE(01) cylindrical waveguide mode in hollow glass and metal waveguides with 780 nm light. Experimentally, we demonstrate formation of the vectorial vortex beams, and measure attenuation lengths of the TE(01) mode in hollow optical fibers with diameters of 50-100 microns. By silver-coating the inner walls of the dielectric fibers, we demonstrate a approximately 200% increase in the attenuation length.
A CMOS neuromorphic approach to emulate neuro-astrocyte interactions

A CMOS neuromorphic circuit is proposed with two main features. First, we emulate the uptake of neurotransmitters by astrocytes, a type of glial cell, that plays an active role in the coordination of information between neurons. Second, we propose a synapse inactivation mechanism, which prevents the saturation of postsynaptic neurons in the absence of an astrocytic process. We show the influence of both mechanisms on the firing of a small network of neurons interacting with an astrocyte. We also incorporate the release of gliotransmitters by the astrocytic microdomain into this network according to the activities of neighbor synapses. This work contribute to better understanding the importance of astrocytes in neuro-glia interactions, and illustrates the active role astrocytes play.
Stirring Up Justice: Adolescents Reading, Writing, and Changing the World

Teaching a diverse population of adolescents to be writers, readers, and active citizens requires fundamental changes in curriculum development, teaching strategies, and student roles in the classroom. In this article, two educators report on their collaboration in an urban high school in Portland, Oregon, USA, to create a classroom where students of diverse backgrounds learned to ask critical questions, to support one another, and to work toward positive social change. Curriculum and teaching in this classroom were choreographed around one central theme: social activism. The authors designed a project in which students worked toward creating positive social change. By sharing their individual projects as they prepared them in and out of class, students learned that activism is not a solo process and that influencing change grows with support and camaraderie. Using a range of literacy activities, including reading biographies of activists, creating gallery displays, writing essays, revising written work, interviewing activists, and teaching other class members, the students learned the power of using their literacy to make changes in the world.
Death or hospitalization of patients on chronic hemodialysis is associated with a physician-based diagnosis of depression

To the Editor: The article by Hedayati et al.1 is relevant in that it addresses the important but underrecognized problem of depression in the dialysis population. The goal of the study was to investigate whether an association exists between physician-diagnosed depression and poor outcomes. The paper underscored the high prevalence of depression in this population and illustrated the significant morbidity and mortality associated with the combined diagnosis of depression and dialysis.
Energetics of Primary Charge Separation in Bacterial Photosynthetic Reaction Center Mutants: Triplet Decay in Large Magnetic Fields †

The triplet state of aromatic molecules forms and decays by intersystem crossing, as originally demonstrated by Kasha and Lewis. By contrast, the triplet state of the primary electron donor, 3P, in photosynthetic reaction centers is formed exclusively by spin- and magnetic-field-dependent charge recombination of the initially formed radical ion pair. 3P decays by intersystem crossing at low temperatures; however, at higher temperatures, it can also decay by activated re-formation of the radical ion pair from which it was born, followed by a spin- and magnetic-field-dependent pathway that leads ultimately to the ground state. The discovery of this activated decay pathway leads to an approach for obtaining information on the relative energies of the radical pair and 3P state (Chidsey et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 1985, 82, 6850−6854); with knowledge of the absolute energy of 3P from its phosphorescence, the energy of the initial charge separation reaction can be obtained. In this paper, we present th...
The matrix elements of the direction cosines in the Wang symmetric rotator basis

Abstract The matrix elements of the direction cosines are presented in the Wang symmetric rotator basis. The form chosen for the matrix elements is one which is particularly convenient for transformation to an asymmetric rotator basis either by means of a high-speed digital computer or by means of a desk calculator.
Abdominal compartment syndrome as a rare complication following component separation repair: case report and review of the literature

One of the most feared complications following a massive ventral hernia repair is abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS). ACS is caused by an acute increase in intra-abdominal pressure (IAP), which can lead to multi-organ dysfunction and ultimately result in death. Component separation repair (CST) has been successful for most large hernia repairs in reducing the risk of ACS by increasing abdominal volume and reducing abdominal wall tension during a tight closure. However, reduction of a large hernia can lead to elevated IAP and possible progression to ACS. Here, we describe the detailed intra-operative and post-operative course of a patient who developed abdominal compartment syndrome following CST repair.
Blood pressure changes after intravenous fosphenytoin and levetiracetam in patients with acute cerebral symptoms

Summary Purpose To study the incidence and extent of the occasionally noted hypotension after intravenous (IV) infusions of fosphenytoin (FOS) and levetiracetam (LEV) in patients presenting with acute cerebral symptoms. Methods Retrospective data collection of consecutive patients with acute cerebral symptoms who received IV infusions of a single dose of 750mg or more of either fosphenytoin or levetiracetam and had documented blood pressure values in the 2h prior and the 2h after their IV infusion. Results More than 10mmHg drop in the systolic, diastolic and MBP was observed in the FOS group following the IV infusion (−16.82mmHg, −11.60mmHg, and 13.34mmHg, respectively). However, there was not a significant change in the MBP after LEV infusion (1.54mmHg, 1.84mmHg, and 1.74mmHg for systolic, diastolic and MBP change, respectively). The difference in the systolic, diastolic and MBP changes between the two groups was statistical significant (all p values are Sixty two percent of patients who received FOS had >10mmHg decrease in their MBP. In the LEV group, only 2 of the 50 patients (4%) had >10mmHg decrease in their MBP. The difference in proportion of the patients with >10mmHg drop in MBP between the two study groups is also statistically significant ( p Conclusions IV infusion of FOS in subjects presenting with acute cerebral symptoms may cause significant decreases in their blood pressure. This was not seen in patients receiving IV LEV infusions. Since maintaining adequate cerebral perfusion pressure is a key point in the management of patients with acute cerebral symptoms, the results of this study may carry a clinical impact on the management of this subgroup of patients.
Base cation stimulation of mycorrhization and photosynthesis of sugar maple on acid soils are coupled by foliar nutrient dynamics

The nutritional benefits that mycorrhizal associations provide to plants may be constrained by acidic soil conditions resulting in decreased photosynthetic function. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and red maple (Acer rubrum) seedlings were grown on a native acidic (pH 4.1) soil both unamended and amended with base cations (pH 6.2). In a second study a fungicide treatment was included. Foliar nutrition, mycorrhizal colonization, photosynthesis and their relationships were assessed. On the native soil, red maple maintained higher levels of mycorrhizal colonization and photosynthesis than sugar maple but showed little response to base cation amendments. Mycorrhizal colonization and photosynthesis of sugar maple increased significantly in response to base cation amendments. Correlations were observed among mycorrhizal colonization, foliar nutrition and photosynthesis. The fungicide treatment indicated that 50% of the base cation-induced increase in sugar maple photosynthesis was mycorrhiza related. The results suggest that base cation stimulation of mycorrhization and photosynthesis of sugar maple on acid soils are coupled by foliar nutrient dynamics. Red maple exhibits much less sensitivity to these same edaphic conditions.
Meanders in the Antarctic Polar Frontal Zone and their impact on phytoplankton

The Antarctic Polar Front is a complex set of meandering jets, which appear to support enhanced primary productivity. The US Joint Global Ocean Flux Study conducted a series of survey and process studies in part to study the processes regulating primary productivity in this high nutrient, low chlorophyll region. We deployed a set of surface velocity drifters, some of which were equipped with bio-optical sensors, to study the temporal and spatial scales of biological and physical processes in the Antarctic Polar Frontal Zone. There were two primary sets of deployments: November 1997 before the spring bloom and January 1998 after the spring bloom. The November deployment revealed a strong spring bloom that lasted about 10 days. In late spring, when incoming solar radiation began to increase, the vertical motions associated with the meanders strongly affected the accumulation of phytoplankton biomass, primarily through their impact on light availability. Weaker meandering was observed in the January deployment, and chlorophyll values remained relatively constant. As the bloom began to decay, it appears that nutrient availability became more important in regulating phytoplankton photosynthesis. Some of the drifters in the November deployment were deployed in coherent clusters, thus allowing us to calculate vertical velocities associated with the meanders. Estimates of fluorescence/chlorophyll suggest that areas of upwelling and downwelling alternately decrease and increase photosynthetic stress, perhaps as a result of changes in the availability of iron or light during the formation of the bloom.
Science for art's sake.

Hollywood's absent-minded professor, always a cliche, is now more unrealistic than ever before. Just how can biological research move forward in the modern era?
Longitudinal influence of perceptions of peer and parental factors on African American adolescent risk involvement.

To explore the long-term contributions of perceived peer and parental influences on adolescent risk and protective behaviors (sexual involvement, condom use, and drug use), we assessed self-reported behaviors and perceptions of peer risk involvement and parental supervision and communication among 383 low-income, urban African Americans aged 9 to 15 years at baseline over a 4-year, period. Baseline perceptions of peer sexual involvement were significantly associated with youth sexual behavior at baseline and were predictive of sexual involvement through all 4 years of follow-up. Perceived parental monitoring was inversely correlated with sexual involvement ment through 3 years of follow-up. Perceptions of peer condom use were associated with increased levels of condom use at baseline and through 6 months of follow-up. Positive parental communication was correlated with increased condom use. Drug use was higher among youths who perceived peers or family members to be using drugs and was inversely correlated with increased parental monitoring and supervision. Stepwise regression revealed peer and parental influences for all three behaviors. Perceptions of both peer and parental behaviors influence long-term risk and protective behaviors of adolescents. Therefore, parents should be included in adolescent riskreduction intervention efforts. Inclusion of friends and/or changing youth perceptions of peer involvement may also be effective intervention strategies.
A Model of Coupled Heat and Moisture Transport in an Annular Clay Barrier

The design of repository seals for deeply buried high-level radioactive wastes incorporates densely compacted clayey barriers around metallic waste canisters. In this paper, a mathematical model that is based on conservation of thermal energy and mass is developed to describe the locations of moisture and temperature fronts within a barrier, around a cylindrical waste canister of 1 m radius, containing radionuclides with half-lives that range from 100 to 10,000 years. The solution developed is axisymmetric: the moisture fraction w and temperature T vary only with time t, and radial distance r from the axis of the cylindrical waste canister. The model produces parabolic partial differential equations. The spatial domain is discretized such that ordinary differential equations that result are solved. Computations using a uniform mesh of 0.1 m and a cooling coefficient of 6.7x10\U-2\N with assumed but typical data on material properties, indicate that coupling of transport processes would be negligible in the case of radionuclides with long half-lives. Also, a quasisteady vaporization front can form and propagate outward over the course of several decades after waste emplacement. The evolution of the front is somewhat insensitive to the half-life used and the permeability of the clayey barrier material.
Modal analysis for real-time viscoelastic deformation

This technical sketch describes how a standard analysis technique known as modal decomposition can be used for real-time modeling of viscoelastic deformation. While most prior work on interactive deformation has relied on geometrically simple models and advantageously selected material parameters to achieve interactive speeds, the approach described here has two qualities that we belive should be required of a real-time deformation method: the simulation cost is decoupled from both the model's geometric complexity and from stiffness of the material's parameters. Additionally, the simulation may be advanced at arbitrarily large time-steps without introducing objectionable errors such as artificial damping.
Feedback of Manufacturing Experience for DFM Design Rules

Abstract In many manufacturing areas, design rules are used to assist in design for manufacturing. These rules are often specific and formal, yet they are usually developed in an ad-hoc manner by design committees and/or design software vendors. This work describes a database architecture and a statistical modeling methodology that enable the formal capture of manufacturing experience as new or revised design rules. The method uses pass/fail or other quality data from the firm's own manufacturing experience to update design limits or to introduce new design rules.
The geologic history of the Lythraceae

The known fossil record of the Lythraceae has been amplified by recent studies in northern Latin America. A total of 18 genera is recognized in geologic strata ranging in age from lower Eocene to Recent, and among the 22 or 23 modern genera, seven have a documented geologic history. The oldest remains are from an Indo-Malayan Old World warm-temperate to subtropical vegetation preserved in the lower Eocene London Clay flora. The most ancient of extant genera isLagerstroemia and the most recent (among those with an adequate fossil record) isCuphea (middle Miocene to Recent). These represent, respectively, primitive and advanced members of the family, and the paleobotanical record supports current concepts concerning phylogenetic relationships among genera of the Lythraceae. The family apparently had an Old World origin and became differentiated into a distinct modern taxon during Paleocene and early Eocene time.
Relativistic fluid dynamics calculations with the particle-in-cell technique☆

Abstract A technique is described for solving numerically the fully relativistic equations of fluid dynamics, for time-varying flows in two and three space dimensions. Based on the particle-in-cell technique, this extension has been developed especially for the investigation of high-energy collisions between atomic nuclei. Results are shown of a calculation in which an oxygen nucleus (16O) impacts onto a uranium nucleus (238U) at a speed that is 0.9516 times the vacuum speed of light.
Resolution of kinetic models by steady state tracing

Abstract The technique of steady state isotopic tracing of heterogeneous catalytic reactions is examined to provide a procedure for determining to what extent it is possible to determine individual step velocities for a given mechanism. The experimental data required to obtain such information is also discussed using recent studies as illustrations.
Temperature measurement in symmetric top polyatomic gases using spontaneous rotational Raman spectra

Abstract A method is described for rapidly obtaining the rotational temperature from the spontaneous rotational Raman spectra of polyatomic symmetric top molecules in the gas phase. The method utilizes the odd-numbered R -branch lines in order to eliminate the complication resulting from S -branch interference. The temperature dependence is then approximated over the range of interest by a two-parameter expression of the same form used for the diatomic case. This approach is applied to NH 3 gas flowing in a chemical vapor deposition cell.
Introducing the ACM Transactions on Computing Education

The ACM Transactions on Computing Education (TOCE) represents a name change and a broadening of scope for the ACM Journal on Educational Resources on Computing (JERIC). The topics covered by this new journal will range across diverse aspects of computing education: traditional computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, information technology, and informatics; emerging aspects of computing; and applications of computing to other disciplines, such as computational biology. The common characteristics shared by these articles are a scholarly approach to teaching and learning, a broad appeal to educational practitioners, and a clear connection to student learning.
Infrared spectroscopic measurement of water permeability in polymer films exposed to liquid water

The details of a method for measuring the water vapor transport rate through polymer films utilizing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) are given. Water flows across one side of the membrane and a nitrogen sweep gas carries the water vapor into the flow-through cell of the spectrometer for measurement. The method was used to test two polymers that have literature values and four new polymers. The resulting FTIR data was analyzed with a partial least-squares method. Experimentally the method is easy to apply and very accurate.
Dimensions of manufacturing automation

The gamut of manufacturing automation and its ramifications in relation, to the strategic and operational issues can be appreciated only if the forces driving the system towards automation and their interrelationships are understood, Whether the automated technology is rigid (hard automation) or flexible; whether the control architecture for the system is interactive, passive, or intelligent; and whether the system is a direct evolution from a corresponding conventional (non-automated) system are some of the important considerations. A framework is required to relate the system parameters, leading to different configurations, with the strategic issues such as mix of configurations and path of evolution from one to another (or a mix) configuration, and operational issues such as a hierarchical (push) versus pull production control and the software logic support. Such a framework in terms of technological sophistication levels and control software sophistication levels is presented.
Divide and Conquer: Division of Labor by B-1 B Cells

Capsular polysaccharides enhance bacterial virulence. In this issue of Immunity, Haas et al. (2005) demonstrate a division of labor between the B-1 B cell subsets: natural antibodies from B-1a cells limit infection by Streptococcus pneumoniae, whereas B-1b cells generate the anticapsule-induced response that prevents fatal infection.
The Effect of Hypothermia on Transient Focal Ischemia in Rat Brain Evaluated by Diffusion- and Perfusion-Weighted NMR Imaging

The effect of moderate whole-body hypothermia (30 degrees C) on transient middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion in the rat was evaluated using diffusion- and perfusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Two hours of transient MCA occlusion was induced by intracarotid insertion of a nylon filament under normothermic (n = 14) and hypothermic (n = 7) conditions. Diffusion- and perfusion-weighted imaging were performed before, during, and after focal ischemia from 30 min up to 7 days. In hypothermic animals, scattered neuronal necrosis was localized to select areas of the caudate putamen and the parietal and insular cortex. In contrast, the normothermic ischemic animals exhibited pan-necrosis and infarct encompassing the damaged area. The diffusion and perfusion data measured from caudate putamen indicate that hypothermia causes a significant reduction in the apparent diffusion coefficient of water (ADCw) and CBF values from normothermic control values (p < 0.01). In both normothermic and hypothermic animals after onset of MCA occlusion, ADCw and CBF values in the core of the ischemic region (striatum) significantly declined from the preischemic and homologous contralateral control ADCw and CBF values (p < 0.05). However, ADCw and CBF in the hypothermic group returned toward control more rapidly than in the normothermic group. These results suggest that the protective effect of hypothermia on ischemic cell damage is reflected in the early return of ADCw during reperfusion and the reduction of ischemic cell damage by hypothermia may be mediated by the improved CBF during acute reperfusion.
Long-term quadriceps femoris functional deficits following intramedullary nailing of isolated tibial fractures

This retrospective study assessed 5 male and 5 female patients, age 35.1±16 years, height 171.8±12 cm, and weight 75.5±18 kg (mean±SD) who were more than 1 year post isolated tibial fracture (18±6 months) and had been treated with an intramedullary tibial nail. Subjects completed a 12-question visual analog scale, a physical symptom and activity of daily living survey, and were also tested for bilateral isokinetic (60°/s) quadriceps femoris and hamstring strength. Knee pain during activity, stiffness, swelling, and buckling were the primary symptomatic complaints. Perceived functional task deficits were greatest for climbing or descending stairs, pivoting, squatting, and walking on uneven surfaces. Involved lower extremity knee extensor and flexor torque production deficits were 25% and 17%, respectively. Early rehabilitation focuses on maintaining adequate operative site bony fixation while providing controlled, progressive, and regular biomechanical loading to restore functionally competent tissue. Following adequate fracture healing, greater emphasis should be placed on lower extremity functional recovery including commonly performed activities of daily living and other functional tasks that are relevant to the patient's disability level. A cyclic rehabilitation program that progresses the weight-bearing environment to facilitate bone and soft tissue healing and neuromuscular re-education is proposed.
Indirect Determination of Vanadium by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Abstract An indirect atomic absorption spectrometric method for vanadium has been developed on the basis of heteropoly chemistry. Molybdovanadophosphoric acid is formed, extracted and stripped by a basic buffer solution. The resulting molybdate, which is equivalent to a specific amount of vanadium, is determined by atomic absorption spectrometry.
A realistic model for error estimates in the evaluation of elementary functions

Floating point error analysis, as described by J. H. Wilkinson (1963) has two known drawbacks: it is too pessimistic and too cumbersome for everyday use. This paper describes a realistic model for error analysis, gives examples of simple formulae frequently used in the calculation of elementary functions, and analyses the error generated in single precision computations with these formulae, using the proposed model for error analysis. The paper also presents error bounds for various polynomial evaluations, as predicted by the model. Model verification is done using double precision arithmetic.
The orchidology of H. G. Jones

A bibliography of the numerous, scattered orchid publications of the late H. G. Jones of Bridgetown, Barbados is presented. The new taxa and combinations proposed by Jones are listed. A search for his personal herbarium, which is believed to be non-existent, is discussed.
Policing in the wild: the game wardens' perspective

Purpose – Numerous research studies have analyzed the difficulties of implementing community‐oriented policing (COP) in policing agencies, but there is no research examining this phenomenon in a natural resource law enforcement department. This paper aims to examine Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife law enforcement officers' attitudes and opinions regarding their agency's paradigm shift toward COP to gain compliance with resource‐protective regulations.Design/methodology/approach – Data are collected through the use of 43 semi‐structured interviews and ten ride‐alongs to determine the officers' commitment to use of COP in resolving contentious natural resource disputes.Findings – This paper reaffirms findings of other COP studies regarding the need to have clear communication about officers' roles under COP and the necessity for the department to reformulate its evaluations of officer production and progress.Practical implications – Other regulatory agencies can apply the lessons learned from thi...
Effects of maternal socialization strategies on children's nutrition knowledge and behavior

Abstract This study examined the relationship between maternal socialization strategies and children's nutrition knowledge and behavior. It was hypothesized that children of mothers who used strategies, that promote the internalization of healthful eating practices, would demonstrate greater understanding of the relationship between nutrition and health. Seventy-nine low-income, immigrant Mexican American mothers and their children (ages 4 to 8) participated. Measures of maternal strategies and child eating behavior were obtained through observations of mother–child interactions during a meal in the home and through a structured interview. Children's knowledge and awareness of the relationship between nutrition and health were assessed in a structured play session. Results indicated that after controlling for child age, mothers' use of reasoning, verbal nondirectiveness, and their provision of opportunities for children to participate in food decisions were positively related to children's knowledge and awareness, whereas the use of commands was negatively related. The use of commands, however, was positively associated with children's compliance to maternal eating directives. Mothers who were overweight, who discouraged unhealthy eating, and who used nutrition rationales had children who gave more physical appearance or weight responses.
A novel differentially pumped design for atmospheric pressure ionization‐ion trap mass spectrometry

A novel differentially pumped design for atmospheric pressure ionization (API)-ion trap mass spectrometry is described. The vacuum system consists of three stages of pumping: API interface stage (1060 L/min), ion trap vacuum region (520 L/s) and electron multiplier region (60 L/s). The ion trap vacuum chamber has been specially designed to implement differential pumping of the ion trap and electron multiplier regions thus allowing ion trap operation with unit mass resolution at pressures up to 6 × 10−3 Torr of helium while maintaining high vacuum in the electron-multiplier detector region. Trapping efficiency for accumulating externally produced ions was studied at unusually high pressures of the damping gas (helium) up to a pressure of 7 × 10−3 Torr (medium vacuum region). The trapping efficiency for externally produced ions and hence the overall mass spectrometric sensitivity is significantly improved by the introduction of helium damping gas into the ion trap region up to 6 × 10−3 Torr.
Induction of FOS immunoreactivity in rat brain by a potent analog of the brain peptide Tyr-W-MIF-1

Abstract Study of the induction of the immediate early gene c-fos has become a powerful tool for monitoring the activity of neurons. Detection of FOS immunoreactivity (FOS-IR) can provide information about the sites of action of a variety of stimuli at the resolution of a single cell. In the present study, FOS immunocytochemistry was used to map the neuronal activation pattern of a newly synthesized analog of the brain peptide Tyr-W-MIF-1 (Tyr-Pro-Trp-Gly-NH 2 ). The structure of this analog is “Tyr-c-[D-Lys-Trp-Gly]” and is designated “ZHK-1”. As shown separately (Zadina et al., this volume), ZHK-1 shows a unique profile of potent opiate activity in several assays. ZHK-1 (25 μg) in 5 μl Ringer's solution or the Ringer's solution alone was administered intracerebroventricularly (ICV) to the rat, and 3 hr later, the animals were perfused and prepared for immunocytochemistry. Effectiveness of the injection was confirmed by tail flick tests, which showed that at this dose, the animals were analgesic for the 3 hr between injection and perfusion. FOS-IR in rats treated with ZHK-1 was markedly induced in several brain areas, including nucleus accumbens, caudate-putamen (head), anterior hypothalamus, hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, arcuate nucleus, thalamic anterodorsal and central medial nuclei, mesencephalic trigeminal tract, substantia nigra, locus coeruleus, and Edinger-Westphal nucleus. The results indicate specific nuclei that may be particularly important for the biological functions of this novel peptide.
Signal-to-noise ratio degradation with channel mismatch (in magnetic recording)

Sensitivities of different run-length-limited coding and equalization/detection schemes to channel response variations have been investigated. Channel variations considered are due to the head-medium velocity variations and head-medium spacing fluctuations, reflected in the height and width changes in the read pulse. Given equalizers/detectors are first tuned to a specific value of PW50, the half-height width of the read pulse. The signal-to-noise ratio degradation was observed as the actual PW50 is varied around this nominal value. The results show that the sensitivity varies widely across different detectors. For example, the partial response maximum likelihood (PRML) schemes, which achieve large performance advantages over peak detection under ideal conditions, are highly sensitive to channel variations and perform worse than peak detection as the PW50 mismatch becomes large. On the other hand, the recently introduced fixed-delay tree search with decision feedback (FDTS/DF) exhibits good resistance to channel variations while achieving favorable nominal performance. >
Design of an irradiation facility with a real-time radiation effects monitoring capability

Abstract An in-core irradiation facility for radiation effects testing with a real-time monitoring capability has been designed for the 1.1 MW TRIGA Mark II research reactor at The University of Texas at Austin. The facility is larger than any currently available non-central location in a TRIGA, supporting testing of larger electronic components as well as other in-core irradiation applications requiring significant volume such as isotope production or neutron transmutation doping of silicon. This article presents the layout and characterization of the large in-core irradiation facility and the real-time electronics performance monitoring capability it is designed to support. To demonstrate this capability, an experimental campaign was conducted where the real-time current transfer ratio for 4N25 general-purpose optocouplers was obtained from in-situ voltage measurements. The resultant radiation effects data – current transfer ratio as a function of neutron and gamma dose – was seen to be repeatable and exceptionally finely resolved. Therefore, the real-time capability at UT TRIGA appears competitive with other effects characterization facilities in terms of number and size of testable samples while additionally offering a novel real-time, in-core monitoring capability.
Predicting Combined Neutron Degradation and Gamma Induced Effects on a Closed Loop System

This paper demonstrates a technique for modeling open loop or closed loop systems in either functional block representation and/or multiple circuit configurations utilizing actual piece-parts data. Computer programs have been developed to represent systems as functional blocks or transfer functions. The SECURE program incorporates a multiplicity of detailed circuits and transfer functions which provides a more complete prediction of system response based on piece-part models; e. g., Ebers and Moll. The program and piece-part models contain the capability of simulating and therefore predicting system response to an ionizing and displacement radiation. Comparison between SECURE results and a linear controls system analysis program demonstrates the close agreement between simulation results. By the use of superposition the simulation was extended to include the radiation effects of an operational amplifier. The response of the amplifier had been predicted using the TRAC computer code (Ref 1). The radiation response of a closed loop system is compared with results obtained when detailed circuitry is simulated by use of the SECURE program. The system used as an illustrative example is a closed loop single axis inertial platform (Ref 2). As a part of the prediction, the SECURE code is used as a design aid in selecting circuit configurations and modifying circuit design.
Guide to Reference: A Review

It has been a few years since the Guide to Reference was presented in its online format, and its move from a printed publication to a strictly online publication started with great plans and some publicity. This article reviews the background of this valuable resource and how it has evolved, including its migration to an online platform. In addition, this article discusses the Guide's current format and characteristics, as well as contemplating its future.
A VAX Based Data Acquisition Computer System at the Nuclear Structure Research Laboratory

The Nuclear Structure Research Laboratory at the University of Rochester is developing a VAX-11/750 computer system for use in a data acquisition and analysis system. The system consists of the VAX which is networked to two LSI-11/23's which are in turn connected to CAMAC branch drivers. The CAMAC branch drivers operate both parallel and 5 MHz byte-serial highways. The network is a high speed DMA interface and is identical to the system implemented at the W.K. Kellogg Radiation Laboratory[l]. The data acquisition system has been designed to allow the user to select standard program modules as building blocks to construct a system to suit the particular needs of the experiment. The division of the realtime analysis between the VAX and the LSI-11s is flexible. The LSI-11s are equipped with small array processors tlo permit high speed analysis on the satellite processors.
28. Chronic exposure to glucocorticoids primes an epigenetic proinflammatory signature in lymphocytes

Although glucocorticoids (GC) are well described as anti-inflammatory agents, GC can also be proinflammatory. The effect of GC on cytokine production, either pro or anti-inflammatory, is dependent on both the dose and duration of GC exposure. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the proinflammatory effect of GC arise from epigenetic pattern modifications in the regulatory regions of proinflammatory genes. Chronic GC treatment of natural killer cells in vitro resulted in a marked increase in stimulated proinflammatory cytokine (IFN-gamma and IL-6) production. qPCR revealed these changes to be transcriptionally regulated and the result of altered epigenetic patterns at proinflammatory cytokine regulatory regions. Chronic GC treatment increased the histone(H) 4 lysine(K) 8 acetylation at the IFN-gamma enhancer and IL-6 promoter, 2- and 4-fold, respectively. Additionally, the IL-6 promoter exhibited a 2-fold increase in H3K9 acetylation. Chromatin structure analysis confirmed a 25% increase in accessibility at the IFN-gamma locus and a 40% increase in accessibility at the IL-6 promoter. Increased histone acetylation resulted from the displacement of HDAC1 and HDAC3 at both regulatory regions. Chronic GC significantly reduced cellular HDAC3 protein levels by 50% while HDAC1 relocalized to a non-nuclear position. Thus chronic GC alters the epigenetic landscape, increasing chromatin accessibility and priming these proinflammatory cytokine genes for rapid expression. These data provide an epigenetic basis for the observed proinflammatory effects of GC.
π − Capturel in Complex Nuclei and Nuclear Pair Correlations

Scintillation counters in coincidence were used as detectors of neutrons and protons produced in pi /sup -/ capture by complex nuclei. By measuring neutrons, it was hoped to establish whether pi /sup -/ capture in complex nuclei involves two nucleons, and if it does, to use the process to study the ratio of neutron--proton pairs to proton--proton pairs. The pi /sup -/ mesons were stopped in Li, C, Al, S, Cu, and Pb targets. In order to test the spatial correlation of the ejected nucleons, measurements were made with the counters 90 and 180 deg from each other. The results obtained are given as coincidences as a function of angle. If corrections are made for relative probability of detecting neutrons and protons, the following ratios of n--n events (a) STA pi / sup -/ + p + n yields n + n! to n--p events (b) STA pi /sup -/ + p + p yields n + p! are obtained: carbon, a/b = 5.0 plus or minus 1.5; aluminum, a/b = 3.9 plus or minus 1.2. Due to background subtractions and secondary events contributing more to the proton coincidence runs, it is felt that these observed ratios are to bemore » taken as lower limits on the ratio of reaction. (B.O.G.)« less
How much (execution) time and energy does my algorithm cost

Do we need to design algorithms differently if our goal is to save energy, rather than time or space? This article presents a simple and speculative thought experiment that suggests when and why the answer could be "yes."
Induction of Tumor-Specific Transplantation Immunity in Hamsters with Cell Fractions from Adenovirus and SV40 Tumor Cells

SummaryThe specific induction of transplantation immunity against adenovirus 31-and SV40-induced hamster tumor cell challenge employing either a crude membrane fraction of homologous adenovirus 31 tumor cells or SV40 tumor cell fragments is described. In each case immunity was equivalent or superior to that induced by whole, irradiated tumor cells previously described to contain TSTA, or to that induced by vaccination of mature hamsters with the live virus. Whole tumor homogenate of adenovirus 31 hamster cells, from which the membrane fraction was obtained failed to induce TSTA immunity. The possibility exists that a masking or enhancing component is present in the homogenate to interfere with TSTA immunity induction or detection.Addendum. Hamsters immunized with SV40 tumor cell ghost lysates were uniformly resistant to an initial cell challenge as shown in Table III. Several months later the survivors were challenged a second time and 42% of the hamsters developed tumors by day 50. One hundred percent of...
Distribution of a kinesin-related protein on Golgi apparatus of tobacco pollen tubes

Previous study has shown that the internal motor kinesin AtKinesin-13A is associated with Golgi stacks in variousArabidopsis cells. With degenerate primers, a segment of 2067 bp was cloned from tobacco by RT-PCR. The polypeptide coded by the segment has 77.33% similarities with the corresponding part of AtKinesin-13A from Arabidopsis; and antibody of AtKinesin-13A recognized specifically the expressed products of the segment in bacteria. Using the anti-AtKinesin-13A antibodies, a 120 kD polypeptide was detected from protein extracts of various organs fromNicotiana tabacum, indicating that a homologue of AtKinesin-13A protein, NtKinesin-13A, is expressed inNicotiana tabacum. Immunofluorescence staining showed that the tobacco NtKinesin-13A protein appeared in particles in pollen tubes by confocal microscopy. Immunofluorescence double labeling showed that the NtKinesin-13A protein particles partially co-distributed with 58K protein, indicating that NtKinesin-13A is located on Golgi apparatus. Immuno-gold labeling and electron microscopy observation revealed that the NtKinesin-13A was associated with Golgi-associated vesicles membranes in tobacco pollen tubes. These results suggest that the NtKinesin-13A may probably play an important role in controlling Golgi stacks, and/or in transporting Golgi-derived vesicles in pollen tubes.
Alpha helix capping in synthetic model peptides by reciprocal side chain–main chain interactions: Evidence for an N terminal “capping box”

A significant fraction of the amino acids in proteins are alpha helical in conformation. Alpha helices in globular proteins are short, with an average length of about twelve residues, so that residues at the ends of helices make up an important fraction of all helical residues. In the middle of a helix, H-bonds connect the NH and CO groups of each residue to partners four residues along the chain. At the ends of a helix, the H-bond potential of the main chain remains unfulfilled, and helix capping interactions involving bonds from polar side chains to the NH or CO of the backbone have been proposed and detected. In a study of synthetic helical peptides, we have found that the sequence Ser-Glu-Asp-Glu stabilizes the alpha helix in a series of helical peptides with consensus sequences. Following the report by Harper and Rose, which identifies SerXaaXaaGlu as a member of a class of common motifs at the N termini of alpha helices in proteins that they refer to as “capping boxes,” we have reexamined the side chain–main chain interactions in a varient sequence using 1H NMR, and find that the postulated reciprocal side chain-backbone bonding between the first Ser and last Glu side chains and their peptide NH partners can be resolved: Deletion of two residues N terminal to the Ser-Glu-Asp-Glu sequence in these peptides has no effect on the initiation of helical structure, as defined by two-dimensional (2D) NMR experiments on this variant. Thus the capping box sequence Ser-Glu-Asp-Glu inhibits N terminal fraying of the N terminus of alpha helix in these peptides, and shows the side chain–main chain interactions proposed by Harper and Rose. It thus acts as a helix initiating signal. Since normal a helix cannot propagate beyond the N terminus of this structure, the box acts as a termination signal in this direction as well. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.