cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Scientists' and science writers' experiences reporting genetic discoveries: toward an ethic of trust in science journalism.

Purpose: To describe the relationship between scientists and science writers and their experiences with media reporting of genetic discoveries. Methods: This study included individual interviews with 15 scientists who specialize in genetics and 22 science writers who have covered their stories and a qualitative analysis of the data. Results: Scientists and science writers place an equally high priority on accuracy of media reports. They agree on what makes genetics stories newsworthy and the particular challenges in reporting genetic discoveries (i.e., poor public understanding of genetics, the association of genetics with eugenics, and the lack of immediately apparent applications of genetic discoveries to human health). The relationship between scientists and bona fide science writers is largely positive. Scientists tend to trust, respect, and be receptive to science writers. Both scientists and science writers acknowledge that trust is an essential component of a good interview. Science writers report a fair degree of autonomy with respect to the relationship they have with their editors. Conclusion: To the degree that trust facilitates the access that science writers have to scientists, as well as higher quality interviews between scientists and science writers, trust might also contribute to higher quality media reporting. Therefore, scientists and science writers have an ethical obligation to foster trusting relationships with each other. Future research should systematically explore ways to cultivate such relationships and assess their impact on the quality of science journalism.
Autonomic nerve regulation of colonic peristalsis in Guinea pigs.

Background/aims Colonic peristalsis is mainly regulated via intrinsic neurons in guinea pigs. However, autonomic regulation of colonic motility is poorly understood. We explored a guinea pig model for the study of extrinsic nerve effects on the distal colon. Methods Guinea pigs were sacrificed, their distal colons isolated, preserving pelvic nerves (PN) and inferior mesenteric ganglia (IMG), and placed in a tissue bath. Fecal pellet propagation was conducted during PN and IMG stimulation at 10 Hz, 0.5 ms and 5 V. Distal colon was connected to a closed circuit system, and colonic motor responses were measured during PN and IMG stimulation. Results PN stimulation increased pellet velocity to 24.6 ± 0.7 mm/sec (n = 20), while IMG stimulation decreased it to 2.0 ± 0.2 mm/sec (n = 12), compared to controls (13.0 ± 0.7 mm/sec, P ＜ 0.01). In closed circuit experiments, PN stimulation in-creased the intraluminal pressure, which was abolished by atropine (10(-6) M) and hexamethonium (10(-4) M). PN stimulation reduced the incidence of non-coordinated contractions induced by NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 10(-4) M). IMG stimulation attenuated intraluminal pressure increase, which was partially reversed by alpha-2 adrenoceptor antagonist (yohimbine; 10(-6) M). Conclusions PN and IMG input determine speed of pellet progression and peristaltic reflex of the guinea pig distal colon. The stimulatory effects of PN involve nicotinic, muscarinic and nitrergic pathways. The inhibitory effects of IMG stimulation involve alpha-2 adrenoceptors.
A More Comprehensive Method for Yield Locus Construction for Metallic Alloys and Composites

Conventional methods for constructing yield loci rely on the assumption that nonlinear strains are permanent strains, which is not always the case. A nickel-base alloy, SiC fiber-reinforced titanium, an aluminum alloy, and particlereinforced aluminum have been observed to violate this assumption. We present a method for constructing yield loci using a proof strain criterion for the permanent strain that relies on cyclic, proportional, probes of the yield surface. Two criteria are implemented: one for stress reversal and one for yielding. The method is demonstrated by the construction of initial and subsequent yield loci in the axial-shear stress plane using thin-walled tubular specimens. Results are presented for 6061-T6 aluminum as well as for 6092/SiC/17.5p-T6, which is 6092 aluminum reinforced with 17.5 volume percent silicon carbide particulate. The centers of the initial yield loci for the composite are eccentric to the origin of the stress plane most likely because of the residual stresses induced during processing. Material hardening due to multiaxial stress states can be described by tracking evolution of the subsequent yield surfaces and here hardening of the particulate composite was primarily kinematic
Development and Initial Validation of the Miranda Vocabulary Scale

Miranda vocabulary forms the essential foundation for Miranda comprehension and subsequent decisions to exercise or waive Miranda rights. The purpose of the current study is the development of the Miranda Vocabulary Scale (MVS), designed to evaluate key vocabulary words found in Miranda warnings and waivers across American jurisdictions. A preliminary list of MVS words was refined by expert ratings and by each word’s discriminability between failed and good Miranda comprehension. Miranda and other measures were collected at multiple sites on 376 pretrial defendants. With further refinements, the MVS is composed of 36 words with excellent scale homogeneity and interrater reliability (r = .99). It also demonstrated good convergent and discriminant validity for cognitive abilities and psychological impairment.
On the calculation of wall temperatures in the post dryout heat transfer region

Abstract A non-equilibrium post dryout heat transfer model for calculating the wall temperature distribution in vertical upflows is presented in this study. The model is based upon the three path heat transfer formulation developed by MIT researchers (Laverty & Rohsenow 1964, Forslund & Rohsenow 1968, Hynek et al. 1969 and Plummer et al. 1974) that involves heat transfer from wall to vapor, from wall to droplets in contact with the wall and from vapor to liquid droplets in the vapor core. Downstream gradients for the bulk vapor temperature, vapor quality, droplet size and vapor velocities are identical to those used by Hynek et al. (1969) and Plummer et al. (1974). Conditions at the dryout location are calculated using a modified version of a technique developed by Hynek et al. (1969). A procedure for determining an average droplet diameter based on a size distribution is introduced. Migration of droplets through the boundary layer and droplet deposition flux are predicted with the model of Ganic & Rohsenow (1979). Heat transfer from the wall to the impinging liquid droplets is calculated with a correlation by Holman & McGinnis (1969). Mechanisms contributing to wall to droplet heat transfer are identified as (a) droplet-wall contact, (b) intensive droplet evaporation inside the boundary layer, and (c) destruction of the boundary layer due to droplet migration to, and rebound from, the hot surface. The significance of the average droplet size and size distribution is demonstrated through its control over the free stream evaporation and droplet deposition rates. Predicted uniform heat flux wall temperature profiles for water, nitrogen and freon 12 are in good agreement with the data of Era et al. (1966), Bennett et al. (1967), Forslund & Rohsenow (1968), Ling et al. (1971), Groeneveld (1972) and Janssen & Kervinen (1975).
A Small Molecule Inhibitor of α4 Integrin-Dependent Cell Migration

Abstract A small molecule inhibitor of α4 integrin-dependent cell migration was identified through a cell-based screen of small molecule libraries. Biochemical and cellular experiments suggest that this molecule functions by interacting with γ-parvin. This molecule should serve as a useful tool to study α4 integrin signaling and may lead to new therapeutics for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Metabolic Behaviour of Isozymes of Acetylcholinesterase

CHOLINESTERASE (ChE) from various sources can be separated into different molecular forms or isozymes1 and we have resolved several bands with ChE activity in extracts of rat neural tissue using disc electrophoresis (Fig. 1). To gain more information about these isozymes, we have studied their physiological properties, particularly their turnover, and have detected an isozyme which seems to have a rapid rate of turnover.
Minimizing total power by simultaneous Vdd/Vth assignment

We investigate the effectiveness of simultaneous multiple supply and threshold voltage assignment in minimizing the total power (static + dynamic) for the first time. Achievable power reductions under varying conditions are investigated, including static-power limited designs and sub-1V processes. Rules of thumb are developed for optimal Vdd and Vth values to be used in future designs. These models show the optimal second Vdd to be approximately half the nominal Vdd while the total power savings are significantly greater than previously anticipated. We describe the impact of level conversion delays and highlight the tradeoff between power savings and critical path count.
Detection of alkaline phosphatase in venom by blotting methods

Abstract Detection of alkaline phosphatase in venom by blotting methods. Toxicon32, 227–231, 1994.—Venom alkaline phosphatase was detected using a blotting method following electrophoresis. The enzyme gave strong reactions in some venoms, but was absent in other venoms, some within the same species. The mol. wt of the enzyme is close to 100,000 and its pI is between 3.6 and 4.8. The enzyme was inactivated by EDTA and 2-mercaptoethanol, and lost activity by freezing and thawing. Endogenous venom alkaline phosphatase can interfere with alkaline phosphatase-based detection methods. Pre-screening for endogenous venom alkaline phosphatase is recommended prior to using alkaline phosphatase-based detection methods when studying snake venom.
High temperature strength of in situ formed CuNb multifilamentary composites

Abstract CuNb wire composites with 10.5 and 14.8 vol.% of submicron Nb filaments were produced in situ and their mechanical properties measured as a function of temperature (300–800 K) and wire diameter. The ultimate tensile strength increases both with niobium content and inverse wire diameter and is at all temperatures well above the values predicted by the rule of mixtures. The strengthening in these composites is attributed to the development of a stable cell-type substructure with copper-niobium interfaces acting as effective barriers to the motion of matrix dislocations. These results, combined with preliminary electrical resistivity measurements, indicate that the high temperature properties of the in situ formed copper-based composites are superior to other high-strength, high-conductivity materials.
Detection of Nonpolar Vapors on Quartz Crystal Microbalances with Ni(SCN)2(4-picoline)4 Coatings

QCMs are spin-coated with films of Ni(SCN)2(4-picoline)4 and tested for their response to vapors of benzene, toluene, the three xylene isomers, styrene, n-heptane, cyclohexane, carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene, and 1,2-dichloroethane. The Ni(SCN)2(4-picoline)4 films exhibit rapid absorption and desorption of the less bulky molecules, especially the planar ones. Partition coefficients obtained from linear regions of calibration curves (frequency change vs vapor concentration) are in some cases above 105, more than 2 orders of magnitude higher than partition coefficients obtained with poly(isobutylene) films. Limits of detection in the ppb range are possible, especially for the xylenes, styrene, and trichloroethylene. The films lose both their sensitivity and their mass over a period of days. The vapor absorption mechanism appears to be clathration, with the analytes becoming guests in the host crystal lattice of Ni(SCN)2(4-picoline)4.
The effects of gibberella zeae on RNA, protein and dry weight in maize seedlings

Abstract NaCl-soluble RNA, tris-glycine buffer soluble protein and dry weight of Gibberella zeae infected maize seedling shoots were altered quantitatively from that observed daily (days 5–9) for the corresponding healthy tissues.
The road to medical vibrational spectroscopy--a history.

The present Editorial chronicles the journey from classical infrared and Raman spectroscopy to medical vibrational spectroscopy, as experienced by a contemporary witness of the times. During the second half of the last century vibrational biospectroscopy became a topic of increasing global interest and has spawned a number of international conferences of which the most recent, SPEC 2012 – Shedding New Light on Disease, constitutes the basis of the present themed issue.
Toward a classification of complex systems

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to suggest process-based organizing principles as a foundation for an objective classification of complex systems that arise as dissipative structures. It is characteristics of a dissipative structure that one process may generate many different states. Conversely, similar states may occur in systems with different processes. A classification of systems that is based upon system state (morphology) is bound to complicated by these properties. In fact, rather than being representable as a simple tree, such a classification becomes a highly interconnected network, thus negating much of its usefulness as a clarifying tool. Because of the non-uniqueness of system state in evolutionary systems, a classification based upon process should be less ambiguous and thus more useful.
Toward an Expanded Understanding of Two-Way Bilingual Immersion Education: Constructing Identity through a Critical, Additive Bilingual/Bicultural Pedagogy

This literature review will take a focused look at the three currently accepted theoretical foundations upon which two-way bilingual immersion programs are based. Through an examination of research on identity construction in childhood and adolescence, particularly as seen through a critical pedagogical lens, it proposes that there exists a fourth and relatively unexamined component: identity construction. Further, it postulates that identity construction is of particular relevance to linguistic minority students.
SULFHYDRYL OXIDATION OF MUTANTS WITH CYSTEINE IN PLACE OF ACIDIC RESIDUES IN THE LACTOSE PERMEASE

To examine further the role of charge-pair interactions in the structure and function of lactose permease, Asp237 (helix VII), Asp240 (helix VII), Glu126 (cytoplasmic loop IV/V), Glu269 (helix VIII), and Glu325 (helix X) were replaced individually with Cys in a functional mutant devoid of Cys residues. Each mutant was then oxidized with H2O2 in order to generate a sulfinic and/or sulfonic acid at these positions. Due to the isosteric relationship between aspartate and sulfinate, in particular, and the lower pKa of the sulfinic and sulfonic acid side chains, oxidized derivatives of Cys are useful probes for examining the role of carboxylates. Asp237→Cys or Asp240→Cys permease is inactive, as shown previously, but H2O2 oxidation restores activity to an extent similar to that observed when a negative charge is reintroduced by other means. Glu126→Cys, Glu269→Cys, or Glu325→Cys permease is inactive, but oxidation does not restore active lactose transport. The data are consistent with previous observations indi...
Improving health care for the lesbian and gay communities.

Dr. Harvey Makadon writes that increasing the profession's awareness of the core medical issues for gay men and lesbians is the first step.
Investigation of Self-Assembled Surfactant Structures at the Solid−Liquid Interface Using FT-IR/ATR

The structure of self-assembled surfactant films at the solid/liquid interface is investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy/attenuated total internal reflection spectroscopy (FT-IR/ATR) techniques, to understand the structural transitions taking place at the interface. The structural transitions, as determined from the ATR technique, are correlated to the change in interfacial properties, such as contact angle and zeta potential, and the presence/absence of steric repulsive barriers in the presence of surfactants at the interface. A transition to randomly oriented self-assembled spherical aggregates appears to take place at concentrations below the bulk critical micelle concentration, directly from hemi-micelles, without the formation of bilayers. The onset of steric repulsive forces in the presence of surfactants was found to occur within the same concentration range, where the transition of the interface structure to predominantly spherical aggregates occurs.
Observation of exothermic reaction during laser-assisted iron oxide coating on aluminum alloy

Abstract Aluminum and Fe 3 O 4 reacts readily in what is known as thermite reaction to produce large amount of heat. Attempts were made to coat Fe-oxide on A319 cast aluminum alloy employing a high power laser to exploit this reaction. High-speed, high-resolution infrared thermography was employed to study the thermal conditions during the laser treatment. Parallel experiment using a less exothermic oxide (FeO) and the same substrate further emphasized development of higher temperature during highly exothermic reaction. The cooling rate calculated via both steady state and non-steady state relations were one order of magnitude different, which was supported by microstructural observations. Transmission electron microscopy revealed formation of aluminides as a result of reaction between iron oxide and aluminum alloys.
Hybrid Network Structure and Mechanical Properties of Rodlike Silicate/Cyanate Ester Nanocomposites

Silicate nanorods (attapulgite, ATT) were organically modified and homogeneously dispersed in a cyanate ester (CE) resin. ATT dispersions and networks were characterized by rheological and microscopic measurements. Amine groups grafted onto the particle surface catalyzed the cyclotrimerization of the CE monomers and enabled the CE monomers to enter the inter-rod spacing of loose aggregates easily, resulting in homogenization of the particle size distribution in the nanocomposites. The addition of nanorods decreased the density of organic networks and increased intracyclizations. Covalent bonding at the interface was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), which establishes a basis for enhancing/ optimizing mechanical properties of CE resins. Nanocomposite modulus, strength, and toughness increased 40, 42, and 55%, respectively, relative to the neat resin, although high nanorod loadings (e.g., 8 wt %) showed negligible benefit. The interplay between nanorod and resin networks governed the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. The curing reaction decreased the size of particle aggregates and thus reduced the percolation threshold of particle networks. Particle networks induced the formation of more linear or branching polymer molecular structures, resulting in weaker particle-matrix interactions. These factors reduced the stress transfer efficiency and crack propagation resistance, impairing the extent of reinforcing at high particle loadings.
Evaluation of standardized field sobriety tests training in North Carolina

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of SFST training in North Carolina. Effectiveness was assessed by comparing differences in the following variables before and after training: (1) the officers’ DWI arrest rates, (2) the officers’ DWI conviction rates, and (3) the arrested drivers’ blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels. Other variables examined included: the officers’ confidence levels in (4) identifying DWI drivers, (5) writing complete and accurate reports about DWI drivers; and (6) testifying clearly and convincingly in court. The results of this study suggest that officers equipped with SFST training are more confident in their abilities to detect DWI offenders, to write a complete and accurate report, and to testify in court clearly and convincingly. Also there is some evidence that these increased abilities correlate with an increase in DWI arrests.
Graph-theoretic cluster expansions. Thermochemical properties for alkanes

Numerical studies of Klein's graph-theoretic cluster expansion ansatz (CEA) are made for several thermochemical properties and graph-theoretic (“topologica”) indices of alkanes. The ansatz expresses any molecular property in terms of unique numerical contributions arising from structural descriptors, subgraphs of the molecular structural formula, called clusters. The collection of cluster contributions comprises a unique fingerprint or signature characterizing each property. Signatures are pattern recognition tools which can be used to (1) identify the most significant structural descriptors for each property, and (2) analyze for similarity and dissimilarity among properties and indices. Visual renderings of CEA signatures display the structural origins of properties in an easily appreciated form.
Bond Pad Effects on Steady State Thermal Conductivity Measurement Using Suspended Micromachined Test Structures

This study examines the effects of bond pads on the measurement of thermal conductivity for micromachined polycrystalline silicon using suspended test structures and a steady state resistance method. Bond pad heating can invalidate the assumption of constant temperature boundary conditions used for data analysis. Bond pad temperatures above the heat sink temperature arise from conduction out of the bridge test element and Joule heating in the bond pad. Simulations results determined correction factors for the electrical resistance offset, Joule heating effects in the beam, and Joule heating in the bond pads. Fillets at the base of the beam reduce the effect of bond pad heating until they become too large.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
High-Temperature Deformation of Stoichiometric 239PuO2

The deformation behavior of Stoichiometric 239PuO2 was examined at 800° to 1500°C, using direct and diametral compression. Maximum ductility was observed at 1000°C, but above this temperature both strength and ductility decreased and the fracture mode changed from transgranular to inter-granular. The deformation activation energy measured at 1000°C was 598 kJ/mol. Comparison to the deformation behavior of hypostoichiometric 239PuO2-x suggests that high-temperature dislocation motion becomes more difficult with increasing O/Pu ratio due to effects of stoichiometry on diffusion rates. Deformation mechanisms in 239PuO2 appear to be a combination of dislocation motion and grain-boundary sliding.
Scaling of lactate threshold by peak oxygen uptake and by fat‐free mass0·67

The lactate threshold (LT) represents the onset of metabolic acidosis during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). It is measured as a O(2) in the units of ml min(-1). In order to make comparisons among subjects, LT is often scaled or normalized by O(2) peak resulting in the LT/O(2) peak ratio. Ratio variables have underlying assumptions. One assumption is that the relationship between the numerator and denominator is linear with a zero y-intercept. If the relationship has a positive y-intercept, then the ratio will decrease with increasing values of the scaling variable thereby penalizing subjects with larger values of the scaling variable. Our purpose was to examine the validity of scaling LT by O(2) peak and by fat-free mass raised to 0 x 67 power (FFM(0 x 67)) as dimensional analysis predicts that LT is proportional to FFM(0 x 67). Cycle ergometer CPET was administered to 204 healthy, sedentary subjects (103 males) to the limit of tolerance. Lactate threshold was estimated noninvasively using the V-slope technique. Fat-free mass was assessed by skinfolds. The relationship of LT versus O(2) peak was linear with a positive y-intercept for both sexes. Consequently, the LT/O(2) peak ratio decreased as O(2) peak increased for both sexes. The relationship of LT versus FFM(0 x 67)was linear with a zero y-intercept for both sexes. Consequently, the plot of the LT/FFM(0 x 67) ratio versus FFM resulted in a straight line with a slope of zero for both sexes. The results of this study support the conclusion that FFM(0 x 67), but not O(2) peak, is a valid scaling variable for LT.
Anharmonicity, Thermal Expansion and Thermal Resistance in a Dielectric Solid

IN the limit of high temperatures(T≳Θ) the thermal resistance of a dielectric solid is roughly proportional to the temperature: Two approximate formulae1,2 have been proposed recently expressing WΘ in terms of equilibrium thermo-dynamic properties of the solid; in both formulae WΘ is equal to the product of the square of the coefficient of the thermal expansion and an appropriate dimensional factor derived from other properties of the solid. These formulae can easily be shown to be essentially equivalent3, and they are found to agree with the experimental data for many simple solids1,2,4 within an order of magnitude, although discrepancies within a factor of 3 or 4 are not uncommon.
An analysis of the drug testing decision

Two separate investigations were undertaken to better understand the factors that should be considered in the drug testing decision. In the first study, organizations were surveyed by telephone and were asked to identify the factors considered when making their decision. Safety seemed to be the most important reason for favoring a drug testing program, while employee rights was one of many reasons for not implementing a testing program. In the second study, the interest was in determining the impact of drug testing on the applicants' willingness to join the organization. It was found that salary was the most important factor, but that the drug testing policy did affect the job choice of about 20% of the students.
Characterization of nif regulatory genes in Rhodopseudomonas capsulata using lac gene fusions

Abstract Translational fusions of the Escherichia coli lacZYA operon to Rhodopseudomonas capsulata nif genes were obtained by using mini-MudII1734 [Castilho et al. J. Bacteriol. 158 (1984) 488–495] inserts into cloned fragments of R. capsulata DNA. A lac fusion to the nifH gene, which encodes dinitrogenase reductase, was used to classify Nif − mutations occurring in regulatory genes. Nine mutations were unable to activate nifHDK transcription. The nine mutations define four nif regulatory genes. Three of these genes are located on the same R. capsulata 8.4-kb Eco RI fragment. Each is transcribed independently. One of these (complementing mutant J61) is partially homologous with the ntrC gene of Escherichia coli , based on Southern hybridization. The fourth nif regulatory gene (complementing mutants LJ1, AH1 and AH3) is unlinked to the others. Lac fusions to all four regulatory genes were constructed. Each regulatory gene is weakly expressed compared to derepressed nifH and partially repressed in the presence of ammonia.
Effect of an unsteady external flow on mass transfer to cavities

Abstract Mass transfer to the bottom wall of a rectangular cavity in the presence of an external periodic flow is investigated. Flow unsteadiness is generated by placing a circular cylinder at mid height within a channel. The cavity is located downstream of the cylinder at the lower wall of the channel. Both experimental measurements and numerical simulations are carried out to establish the ability of a time-accurate finite element solver to capture the transient flow and mass transfer. The mass-transfer rate at the bottom wall of the cavity is measured using reduction of ferricyanide ions on a platinum line electrode. Cavity aspect ratios (height⧹width) of 0.5, 1.0 and 1.81 and Reynolds numbers based on channel heights between 100 and 800 are investigated.
Synopsis of copepods associated with asteroid echinoderms, including new species from the Moluccas

Copepods associated with Asteroidea are listed, with their hosts and localities where found. Five new species and one new genus are included: Astericola carens sp. nov., Stellicola astrivagus sp. nov., Astroxynus choriasteris sp. nov., Chorioxynus moluccensis gen. nov., sp. nov., and Stellicomes bisphaerulifer sp. nov. New hosts and localities are recorded.
Breathing life into the "killer course": The value of narratives in learning pathophysiology.

Summary In response to the current nursing shortage, nurse educators are often challenged with teaching at an accelerated pace in curricula that are overflowing with content. This may be especially difficult in content-heavy courses such as pathophysiology. To enhance student learning, innovative teaching methods that communicate essential nursing content and avoid an over abundance of passive imparting of information are needed. This article describes one teaching strategy that reinforces the vital content of an accelerated pathophysiology nursing course and provides opportunities for student growth and understanding beyond the basic objectives of the course.
Transfer of a sex odor discrimination by rats.

Abstract To test for transfer of a sex odor discrimination, 2 male rats were initially trained to discriminate between the odors of sawdust bedding from a male and female rat and then tested with stimuli from 4 other pairs of male and female rats. Both animals showed strong positive transfer to each of the pairs of test stimuli.
A new value proposition.

Better outcomes and lower costs are needed in cancer care. To establish true value for money, researchers must establish what matters most to patients and other relevant stakeholders—including families, employers and even insurance companies.
Aerosol formation from the reaction of α-pinene and ozone using a gas- phase kinetics-aerosol partitioning model

As a result of new aerosol compositional information, we have implemented an exploratory model for predicting aerosol yields from the reaction of α-pinene with ozone in the atmosphere. This new app...
Effects of octopamine, chlordimeform, and demethylchlordimeform on amine-controlled tick salivary glands isolated from feeding Amblyomma americanum (L.)

Abstract The amine-controlled salivary glands of feeding female Amblyomma americanum (L.) ticks were isolated in saline and exposed to dopamine, octopamine, chlordimeform, and demethylchlordimeform. Octopamine stimulated a faster secretory rate than the demethylchlordimeform and dopamine prestimulation was not required. Octopamine was much less potent than dopamine as a stimulant. Chlordimeform (10 −5 M ) stimulated little or no secretion following dopamine incubation but it subsequently antagonized the dopamine-stimulated (10 −5 M ) response even though the chlordimeform had been removed. It (10 −5 M ) did not enhance or antagonize and established maximal dopamine-stimulated response, nor did it significantly alter a near threshold dopamine-stimulated rate. Demethylchlordimeform stimulated secretion at rates 24 to 21% of those for dopamine (10 −7 M ) but at concentrations 100- to 10,000-fold that of dopamine, and its action was expressed only after the glands had been prestimulated by dopamine. In the same experiments, the millimolar concentration significantly antagonized dopamine (10 −7 M )-stimulated secretion, but a 10 μ M dose had much less of an effect. Gland preincubation with the formamidines was required before the addition of dopamine for antagonism of secretion to occur. Because these formamidines did not enhance dopamine-stimulated secretion or have potent intrinsic effects, it is unlikely that they inhibited gland monoamine oxidase. In conclusion, the relatively high threshold octopamine concentration and the lack of a potent effect by the formamidines show that octopamine receptors are not present in the gland. The formamidines can affect the secretory rate and therefore under certain physiological conditions could alter salivary gland functioning in the feeding tick.
Self-resonant piezoelectric thick films for sensing applications

The behaviour of piezoelectric thick films based on a PZT paste screen-printed and fired on alumina substrates has been investigated around their resonant frequencies. Experimental results relative to circular layers are reported, which show the influences on the impedance spectra around resonance owing to lead oxide content in the paste, layer thickness and poling field. These early results suggest that this, so far overlooked region of operation, might be advantageously exploited for sensing applications, stimulating the migration in the low-cost field of thick film technology of operating principles and devices from more costly technologies.
Chemical-Shift-Chemical - Shift Correlation Spectroscopy in Powdered Solids

Abstract Sample reorientation during the mixing time of a two-dimensional NMR exchange experiment allows the measurement of chemical-shift tensors in powdered samples whose one-dimensional powder patterns are too complex to reliably analyze. This technique has the advantages that the chemical-shift anisotropy has an unscaled representation, the artifacts caused by cross polarization, spin relaxation, and partial sample orientation can be accounted for, the experiment is relatively easy to perform, and no spinning sidebands interfere. The method is useful for sorting out the principal values of overlapping chemical-shift tensors.
Scimitar syndrome presenting in infancy.

Abstract Background . Scimitar syndrome has a variable presentation based on the age at which the diagnosis is made. In general, infants presenting in heart failure have a greater number of associated anomalies and their prognosis is much worse. Methods . We reviewed the records of all patients under our care at St. Louis Children's Hospital who presented with symptoms attributable to scimitar syndrome during their infancy. Twelve patients were identified. The average age at presentation was 6 weeks. Results . The most common symptom at presentation was tachypnea. The chest roentgenogram demonstrated dextroposition of the heart and hypoplastic right lung. Only 1 patient had the classic "scimitar sign." Cardiac catheterization demonstrated pulmonary hypertension (pulmonary artery systolic pressure, 73.9 ± 21.8 mm Hg). The Qp:Qs was 3.1 ± 1.5:1. Two patients with severe associated anomalies were treated medically and both died. Two patients underwent occlusion of the systemic collaterals; one died and the other ultimately underwent complete repair due to persistence of the symptoms of heart failure. Two patients had primary right pneumonectomy and both are alive and well. Seven patients underwent complete repair (one after coil occlusion of the systemic arterial collaterals) and one died; three subsequently developed occlusion of the baffle from the orifice of the anomalous pulmonary vein and required pneumonectomy. Two patients required lung transplantation due to persistent pulmonary hypertension in one and recurrent bilateral pulmonary venous stenosis in the other. Conclusions . Infants presenting with scimitar syndrome generally have symptoms of tachypnea and chest roentgenograms showing dextrocardia and hypoplastic right lung. Although repair of the anomalous venous return and ligation of collaterals is generally recommended, right pneumonectomy (either as primary therapy or if repair failed) had similar early and late results.
Cinefluorographic analysis of tongue-thrusting

Abstract This report has consisted of a review of the use of cinefluorographic analysis in the detection of tongue-thrusting. One case was presented which included cinefluorographic tracings before and after therapy, as well as a review of pre- and postswallowing patterns as indicated by cinefluorographic tracings. The use of cinefluorographic analysis as a diagnostic aid to go along with other techniques for the diagnosis of tongue-thrusting is presented.
Error and variability characterization in structural dynamics modeling

Abstract The characterization of both modeling error and random variability has been the subject of recent interest within the modeling and simulation community. This paper addresses both of these topics, using as a testbed the structural dynamics validation challenge problem developed by Sandia National Laboratories. With a focus on the model’s intended use, two cases of model assessment are considered, illustrating what types of conclusions are appropriate when comparing model predictions and experimental observations. In addition, the random variability associated with the modal properties of a three degree-of-freedom subsystem is characterized using a non-parametric approach which incorporates kernel density estimation, principal component analysis, and Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation.
Gender differences in cognitive abilities of learning-disabled females and males.

Gender differences in level and pattern of cognitive abilities were examined in 28 LD college-able females (CA 18–25) as compared to 21 LD college-able males (CA 18–25). Both groups were in the average IQ range as measured by the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, with LD males significantly higher on the Full Scale IQ and three out of the four subtests, Picture Completion, Block Design, and Information. The LD females performed significantly better on the Digit Symbol subtest. The hierarchies of subtest performance and Bannatyne and ACID category scores were compared. LD females have strengths in visual-motor abilities and verbal conceptualization, while the LD males’ highest abilities were nonverbal visual-spatial confirming earlier studies on younger LD individuals and non-LD males and females. Performance on the Digit Symbol subtest was the next to the lowest for the males, the highest for females. However, for both groups, short-term and long-term memory for digits and factual knowledge and mental arithmetic problem solving were relative weaknesses. Results indicate different patterns of cognitive abilities in LD females and males which have implications for identification, service, and prognosis for the learning disabled, especially females.
Chemically dependent home health care nurses are too impaired to practice

Home health care staff members are not immune from the increasing problem of drug addiction. This article suggests guidelines that an agency can use in developing a pro gram that helps an addicted staff member seek treatment. The article includes informa tion on symptoms, a discussion of job performance problems, and considerations for early intervention.
Protein glutathionylation in cellular compartments: a constitutive redox signal.

AbstractGlutathione provides means of regulating protein function by the process of glutathionylation. Despite the role of oxidative stress biomarkers assumed recently by glutathionylated proteins in human diseases, so far no information is available on the intracellular distribution of glutathionylated proteins in human cell lines. In this study, we combined the specificity of monoclonal antibody labeling for protein-bound glutathione (GS-Pro) with the ability of confocal microscopy to localize molecules with high spatial resolution. We performed immunofluorescence analysis on dermal fibroblasts, both in steady state than in proliferative conditions, and on in situ extracted matrix samples. For the first time, we report the compartmentalization of constitutively glutathionylated proteins in different subcellular districts and we found a tight association between glutathione, nuclear lamina, and cytoskeleton. In proliferating cells, total GS-Pro fluorescence increases in the early phases of growth and sig...
Can virus therapy of human cancer be improved by apoptosis induction

Abstract Direct virus inoculations and viral oncolysates may induce temporary remissions and prolong life with reduced tumor burden, or decrease relapse rates but fall short of curing human cancers. We propose: (i) investigations of Cassel's 73-T, an Ehrlich's mouse ascites carcinoma-adapted Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strain that so effectively reduced relapse rates in malignant melanoma if it is an admixture or a recombinant with a murine parvovirus; (ii) transfection of prostatic carcinoma cells with the TRMP gene; (iii) transfection of sarcoma cells with the fas gene followed by treatment with anti-fas monoclonal antibodies, and (iv) treatment of metastatic tumors with a parvovirus incorporating the apoptosis-inducer Ad5 E1A gene. Thus, replicating virions and haphazard generation of cytokines in the inoculated host could be replaced with transfection of single genes of well-defined, limited but selected efficacy.
The aqueous stability of a Mars salt analog: Instant Mars

Due to their stability in low-temperature conditions, aqueous salt solutions are the favored explanation for potential fluid features observed on present-day Mars. A salt analog was developed to closely match the individual cation and anion concentrations at the Phoenix landing site as reported by the Wet Chemistry Laboratory instrument. “Instant Mars” closely replicates correct relative concentrations of magnesium, calcium, potassium, sodium, perchlorate, chloride, and sulfate ions. A Raman microscope equipped with an environmental cellprobed liquid water uptake and loss by Instant Mars particles in a Mars relevant temperature and relative humidity (RH) environment. Our experiments reveal that Instant Mars particles can form stable, aqueous solutions starting at 56 ± 5% RH between 235 K and 243 K and persist as a metastable, aqueous solution at or above 13 ± 5% RH. Particle levitation using an optical trap examined the phase state and morphology of suspended Instant Mars particles exposed to changing water vapor conditions at room temperature. Levitation experiments indicate that water uptake began at 42 ± 8% RH for Instant Mars particles at 293 K. As RH is decreased at 293 K, the aqueous Instant Mars particles transition into a crystalline solid at 18 ± 7% RH. These combined results demonstrate that Instant Mars can take up water vapor from the surrounding environment and transition into a stable, aqueous solution. Furthermore, this aqueous Instant Mars solution can persist as a metastable, supersaturated solution in low-RH conditions.
What Motivates Principals

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to determine the relevancy of the "motivation-hygiene theory" for a population of principals. A semi-structured interview was used to obtain data from a sample of twenty secondary school principals and twenty elementary school principals. Results indicated that the job-related factors (motivators), achievement and recognition, were significantly mentioned in periods of principals’ job satisfactions. Five context-related factors (hygienes), interpersonal relations with subordinates, interpersonal relations with peers, interpersonal relations with supervisors, supervision-technical, and school district policy and administration were found to be significantly mentioned in periods of principals’ job satisfactions and dissatisfactions. It was concluded that some of the factors mentioned by principals as contributing to their job satisfactions and dissatisfactions were unidirectional.
Identification and Characterization of an Exotoxin from Staphylococcus aureus Associated with Toxic-Shock Syndrome

Toxic-shock syndrome (TSS) is believed to be caused by a toxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus. An exotoxin has been identified that is associated with strains of S. aureus isolated from patients with TSS. Coded strains of S. aureus were tested for the presence of the exotoxin by polyacrylamide gel isoelectric focusing. Sixty isolates of S. aureus were tested; 28 (100%) of 28 isolates from patients with TSS but only five (16%) of 32 control isolates produced the toxin (P much less than 0.001). This protein exotoxin, which was purified by differential precipitation with ethanol and thin-layer isoelectric focusing, had an isoelectric point of 7.2. When tested by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the toxin migrated as a homogeneous protein with a molecular weight of 22,000. The exotoxin produced fever in rabbits and enhanced susceptibility to lethal shock caused by endotoxin. Other biologic properties of the exotoxin included lymphocyte mitogenicity and the capacity to suppress synthesis of IgM antibody to sheep erythrocytes.
An adaptive similarity measure for classification of hyperspectral signatures

Capturing both the shape of the spectral continuum and the positions/widths of absorption bands is essential to accurately measure similarity between hyperspectral signatures. Furthermore, the relative importance of these features is data dependent. In this letter, we present an adaptive version of our recently proposed continuum-intact (CI)/continuum-removed (CR) similarity measure which automatically determines a convex weighting between similarity measurements of CI and CR signatures according to input data. We describe an efficient technique to calculate an optimal weight for a linear combination of CI and CR similarity measurements. We evaluate the technique on the Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer spectra sampled from a well-studied urban scene and show that our technique yields improved classification accuracy in comparison to CI or CR similarity measurements alone and performs comparably to calculating the weight via brute-force search, at a much reduced computational cost. A source code implementation of our algorithm is provided online.
Foundation funding and chemical biology.

An emerging generation of scientists trained at the interface of chemistry and biology is providing new tools and insights into the workings of biological systems. Private foundations represent an important funding option for scientists at this interface.
Description of the international consortium for prostate cancer genetics, and failure to replicate linkage of hereditary prostate cancer to 20q13

The International Consortium for Prostate Cancer Genetics (ICPCG) is an international collaborative effort to pool pedigrees with hereditary prostate cancer (PC) in order to replicate linkage findings for PC. A strength of the ICPCG is the large number of well-characterized pedigrees, allowing linkage analyses within large subsets. Given the heterogeneity and complexity of PC, the historical difficulties of synthesizing different studies reporting positive and negative linkage replication, and the use of different statistical analysis methods and different stratification criteria, the ICPCG provides a valuable resource to evaluate linkage for hereditary PC. To date, linkage of chromosome 20 (HPC20) to hereditary PC has been one of the strongest linkage signals, yet the efforts to replicate this linkage have been limited. This paper reports a linkage analysis of chromosome 20 markers for 1,234 pedigrees with multiple cases of PC ascertained through the ICPCG, and represents the most thorough attempt to confirm or refute linkage to chromosome 20. From the original 158 Mayo pedigrees in which linkage was detected, the maximum heterogeneity LOD (HLOD) score, under a recessive model, was 2.78. In contrast, for the 1,076 pedigrees not included in the original study, the maximum HLOD score (recessive model) was 0.06. Although, a few small linkage signals for chromosome 20 were found in various strata of this pooled analysis, this large study failed to replicate linkage to HPC20. This study illustrates the value of the ICPCG family collection to evaluate reported linkage signals and suggests that the HPC20 region does not make a major contribution to PC susceptibility.