cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Post-transcriptional regulation of transcript abundance by a conserved member of the tristetraprolin family in Candida albicans

Summary Members of the tristetraprolin (TTP) family of CCCH tandem zinc finger proteins bind to AU-rich regions in target mRNAs, leading to their deadenylation and decay. Family members in Saccharomyces cerevisiae influence iron metabolism, whereas the single protein expressed in Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Zfs1, regulates cell–cell interactions. In the human pathogen Candida albicans, deep sequencing of mutants lacking the orthologous protein, Zfs1, revealed significant increases (> 1.5-fold) in 156 transcripts. Of these, 113 (72%) contained at least one predicted TTP family member binding site in their 3′UTR, compared with only 3 of 56 (5%) down-regulated transcripts. The zfs1Δ/Δ mutant was resistant to 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole, perhaps because of increased expression of the potential target transcript encoded by HIS3. Sequences of the proteins encoded by the putative Zfs1 targets were highly conserved among other species within the fungal CTG clade, while the predicted Zfs1 binding sites in these mRNAs often ‘disappeared’ with increasing evolutionary distance from the parental species. C. albicans Zfs1 bound to the ideal mammalian TTP binding site with high affinity, and Zfs1 was associated with target transcripts after co-immunoprecipitation. Thus, the biochemical activities of these proteins in fungi are highly conserved, but Zfs1-like proteins may target different transcripts in each species.
Rohner, Ronald P

Ronald P. Rohner (b. 1935) is professor emeritus of family studies and anthropology at the University of Connecticut, where he is also director of the Ronald and Nancy Rohner Center for the Study of Interpersonal Acceptance and Rejection. Keywords: cross-cultural psychology; lifespan and development psychology; parenting
Balancing Fidelity with Flexibility and Fit: What Do We Really Know about Fidelity of Implementation in Schools?

Treatment fidelity, or the application of an intervention as it is designed, is a critical issue for the successful implementation of evidence-based practices. Typically it is assumed that evidence-based practices implemented with high fidelity will result in improved outcomes, whereas low fidelity will lead to poorer outcomes. These assumptions presume agreement across researchers and practitioners on what fidelity is, how to measure it, and what level of fidelity optimizes outcomes; however, there is no widespread agreement on any of these issues. This article discusses the dimensions and nuances of treatment fidelity as well as the implications for measuring and analyzing it in relation to student outcomes. The authors review research demonstrating the differential relationship of fidelity across schools, program type, and impact on student outcomes that special educators should consider when designing intervention studies and implementing evidence-based practices. Special educators should prioritize p...
The Latent Structure of the Criminal Lifestyle: A Taxometric Analysis of the Lifestyle Criminality Screening Form and Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles

Three taxometric procedures, mean above minus below a cut (MAMBAC), maximum eigenvalue (MAXEIG), and latent mode factor analysis (L-Mode), were applied to the Lifestyle Criminality Screening Form (LCSF), the Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles (PICTS), and a combination of the two in a group of 771 male federal prisoners. It was hypothesized that the rating scale (LCSF) would demonstrate taxonic structure and the self-report measure (PICTS) would demonstrate dimensional structure. The PICTS—dimensional relationship was found but the LCSF—taxon relationship failed to surface. When the four most valid and factorially meaningful PICTS scales were combined with the four LCSF sub-scales, there was clear and consistent evidence of dimensional structure in the criminal lifestyle.
Feynman-kac formula for euclidean fermi and bose fields

We define free, covariant Euclidean Bose and Fermi fields and establish their relation with the corresponding relativistic free fields. Using this correspondence we prove a Feynman-Kac formula for boson-fermion models.
Bilateral Endogenous Endophthalmitis Secondary to Endocarditis With Negative Transesophageal Echocardiogram

PURPOSE: To present a case of bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis as the primary manifestation of an aortic root abscess and endocarditis, both of which were undetected by transesophageal echocardiogram. DESIGN: Observational case report. METHODS: A 13-year-old male presented with bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis and previously undiagnosed ventricular septal defect, subaortic stenosis, and a mitral valve cleft. RESULTS: Cardiac evaluation, systemic evaluation, and transesophageal echocardiogram were negative for endocarditis, but endocarditis and aortic root abscess were discovered at time of cardiac surgery. The patient responded to systemic treatment for endocarditis and surgical management of his cardiac defect. CONCLUSION: A cardiac source for endogenous endophthalmitis should be considered in the presence of clinical diagnosis of bacteremia, despite a negative transesophageal echocardiogram and systemic evaluation.
Consumer Perceptions of Department Store Service: a Lesson for Retailers

Reports on the difficulties currently faced by department stores. Argues that a return to a true service orientation is needed. Discusses consumer attitudes towards the service offered in such stores via the results of a focus group interview, ranking and perceptual mapping of store services. Offers managerial guidelines for implementing a successful service strategy.
Laser Observation Of An Adsorbate's Vibrational Line Strength And Stark Tuning Rate

ABSTRACT Two laser spectroscopy techniques for adsorbate vibrational spectroscopy are discussed: elec- troreflectance vibrational spectroscopy (EVS) and polarization-modulated IR reflection absorption spectroscopy (PS). Both techniques were used to obtain quantitative spectra of CO on Ni(lOO). The sensitivity of EVS is greater, but the two techniques provide complementary information. Chemical applications are given. 1. INTRODUCTION Laser spectroscopy of adsorbed gas on metal surfaces can give quantitative vibrational spectra. Such spectra offer new opportunities for chemical analysis of adsorbed species. In this paper, I dis­ cuss two techniques: electroreflectance vibrational spectroscopy1 (EVS) and polarization-modulated IR reflection absorption spectroscopy1 '2 (PS). A study3 of CO on Ni(lOO) with both is used as an example.In the past, chemical studies of surface species using vibrational spectroscopy have been based mainly on qualitative information obtained from the spectra. Vibrational frequencies have been reported. The measured frequencies have been used to identify the adsorbed species and their bonding to the surface by comparison with model calculation or spectra of gas phase species with known structure. Shifts in the observed frequencies with coverage have been analyzed as the sum of two effects: chemical shifts4"9 and electromagnetic coupling5'10'11 to the oscillating dipole fields of nearby adsorbates. The origin of the chemical shifts, especially those produced by coadsorbed species such as alkali metals, is a matter of dispute.12"16 With few exceptions, the intensity infor­ mation in reported spectra has been lost, either by reporting in terms of arbitrary units or by not giving key experimental parameters such as the angle of incidence and surface coverage.Many techniques to obtain vibrational spectra of adsorbed species have been developed. They can be categorized in four groups: incoherent source techniques, Raman spectroscopy, laser re­ flectance spectroscopy, and non-linear spectroscopy. Incoherent source techniques17 include sub­ traction of spectra with and without the adsorbate present, wavelength modulation, polarization modulation, detection of sample heating, and emissivity spectroscopy. The Raman techniques are either surface enhanced18"20 or unenhanced.21 Laser reflectance techniques include EVS and PS, as emphasized in the present study. Sum frequency generation22'23 is another promising adsorbate vibrational spectroscopy technique.Each successful vibrational spectroscopy technique allows adsorbate vibrations to be stud­ ied without the subtraction of a large background. This is also true of electron energy loss spectroscopy,24'25 another widely used technique. Laser techniques tend to be especially sensitive to background effects since laser intensity reproducibility is often poor as the laser is repeatedly tuned through the same energy range.
On Dynkin's Markov property of random fields associated with symmetric processes

Abstract Let p(t, x, y) be a symmetric transition density with respect to a σ-finite measure m on (E, E ), g(x,y)=∫p(t,x,y)dt, and M ={σ-finite measures μ⩾0:∫g(x,y)μ( d x)μ( d y) . There exists a Gaussian random field Φ={ϕ μ :μϵ M } with mean 0 and covariance E ϕ μ ϕ ν =∫g(x,y)μ( d x)ν( d y) . Letting F (B)=σ{ϕ μ :μ(B c )=0} we consider necessary and sufficient conditions for the Markov property (MP) on sets B, C: F (B), F (C) c.i. given F (B ∩ C). Of crucial importance is the following, proved by Dynkin: E {ϕ μ ∣ F (B)}=ϕ μB , where μB is the hitting distribution of the process corresponding to p, m with initial law μ. Another important fact is that ϕμ=ϕν iff μ, ν have the same potential. Putting these together with an additional transience assumption, we present a potential theoretic proof of the following necessary and sufficient condition for (MP) on sets B, C: For every xϵE, TB∩C=TB+TC∮ θTB=TC+TB∮θTC a.s. Px where, for D ϵ E , TD is the hitting time of D for the process associated with p, m. This implies a necessary condition proved by Dynkin in a recent preprint for the case where B∪C=E and B, C are finely closed.
Pac attenuation coefficients G 2 and G 4 for a randomly orient non-axially symmetric static electric quadrupole interaction for the intermediate state I=2

The time-differential perturbed angular correlationG-factors are given in closed form in terms of the hyperfine quadrupole interaction frequency and the asymmetry of the electric field gradient tensor.
Trace constituents in the mesosphere

The paper examines recent composition measurements, the large-scale distributions of trace constituents, and the interpretation of these global patterns in the light of the current understanding of chemistry and transport. Attention is given to results from the following space missions: the Nimbus 7 LIMS and SAMS experiments; the SMM UV spectrometer solar occultation experiment; the SME UVS and AGS experiments; and the Spacelab 1 solar occultation experiment. A brief summary of measurements and their implications is presented for three long-lived species, CO, NO, and H2O. The reactive or short-lived species OH and O3 are also examined.
SU‐FF‐J‐27: Calibration of the Dual‐Transducer Focused Acoustic Radiation Field for a Multimodal Sono‐Contrast NIR Spectroscopy System

Purpose: To calibrate the dual‐transducer focused acoustic radiation field, register the focus center in the imagingultrasound system, and establish a monthly calibration protocol for a noninvasive multi‐modal breast cancer scanning system. Method and Materials: The scanhead incorporated two 1MHz focused transducers aligned orthogonally to deliver acoustic radiation force (ARF) in a 2.4cm region. A commercial ultrasound probe, located in the same vertical plane as the focused transducers, was used in the system for image co‐registration. Dielectric fluid was filled into the scanhead as the ultrasound transmission media. The scanhead was merged into a water tank filled with degassed distilled water. A function generator connected with an amplifier was used to drive the focused transducers. The imagingultrasound probe was connected to a commercial ultrasound system. The focused transducers were excited by 1MHz continuous sine wave with amplitude of 200mv from a function generator, amplified by the amplifier. A hydrophone was aligned vertically below the bottom plate and moved by a 3D motion platform (resolution 0.05mm) in the 3D Cartesian space at a step of 0.1mm. An oscilloscope was connected with the hydrophone for data display and acquisition of the voltage signals for calculating the acoustic intensity. Results: The focal spot that has the maximum peak‐positive voltage signal on the oscilloscope was found at 2.34 cm below the bottom plate, which is the designed intersection of the axes of the two focused transducers. The Spatial Peak Temporal Average Intensity was determined to be 0.4 W⋅cm−2, below the FDA therapeutic ultrasound limits (0.72 W⋅cm−2). The focal spot was then registered in the imagingultrasoundimages.Conclusions: This study established the baseline of the dual‐transducer focus acoustic radiation field. A monthly calibration protocol has been developed following the same procedure for the focused acoustic radiation field. Acknowledgement: supported by NCI Grant CA107860.
Non-linear dynamics of supported pipe conveying pulsating fluid—II. Combination resonance

Abstract In this paper the work presented in [N. Sri Namchchivaya, Int. J. Non-linear Mech. 24, 185–196 (1989)] is extended to study the non-linear behavior of supported pipes conveying pulsating fluid in the presence of combination resonance. The method of averaging is used to obtain a set of autonomous equations. It is found that the trivial solution of the averaged equation loses stability through a Hopf bifurcation giving rise to a periodic solution. Explicit results for the bifurcating solutions are obtained locally and globally. In addition a numerical scheme is also used to verify these results. It is found that various results obtained using different techniques agree in their common regions of validity. Numerical values of these results are evaluated for pinned-pinned and clamped-clamped pipes.
Homogeneous, Isotropic Flow in Grid Generated Turbulence

Detailed grid generated turbulent analysis has been completed using a three-dimensional hot-wire anemometer and traversing mechanism to identify a homogeneous, isotropic flow region downstream of a square mesh. The three-dimensional fluctuating velocity measurements were recorded along the centerline of a wind tunnel test section and spatially over the entire wind tunnel cross section downstream of the square mesh. Turbulent intensities for various grid sizes and Reynolds numbers ranged from a minimum of 0.2 percent to a maximum of 2.2 percent in each of the three principal velocity directions. Spatial homogeneity and isotropy were determined for several turbulent flow conditions and downstream positions using the method of covariances. Covariances, in theory, should approach zero asymptotically; however, in practice, this was not achievable. A subjective judgment is required to determine downstream location where the variance of the three covariances reaches a value close to zero. The average standard deviation provides an estimate for defining the limit or subjective threshold needed to determine the onset of homogeneous, isotropic flow
Need probability affects retention : A direct demonstration

Recent memory theory has emphasized the concept ofneed probability—that is, the probability that a given piece of learned information will be tested at some point in the future. It has been proposed that, in real-world situations, need probability declines over time and that the memory-loss rate is calibrated to match the progressive reduction in need probability (J. R. Anderson & Schooler, 1991). The present experiments were designed to examine the influence of the slope of the need-probability curve on the slope of the retention curve. On each of several trials, subjects memorized a list of digits, then retained the digits in memory for 1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 sec. Some trials ended with a recall test; other trials ended with the message, “no test.” In Experiment 1, the likelihood of encountering a memory test (i.e., the need probability) was made to either increase or decrease as the retention interval increased; in Experiment 2, need probability either was flat (invariant across retention intervals) or decreased as the retention interval increased. The results indicated that the shape of the need-probability curve influenced the slope of the retention curve (Experiment 1) and that the effect became larger as the experimental session progressed (Experiment 2). The findings support the notion that memory adapts to need probabilities and that the rate of forgetting is influenced by the slope of the need-probability curve. In addition, all of the forgetting curves approximated a power function, suggesting that need probability influences the slope but not the form of forgetting.
Arcs omitted by support points of univalent functions

This paper develops a general method for investigating certain geometric properties of the analytic arc omitted by a support point in the classS of univalent functions. The main result is that for every support point arising from pointevaluation of the derivative, the omitted arc has monotonic argument.
Intensification of geo-cultural homophily in global trade: Evidence from the gravity model

Abstract This article extends the homophily principle (similarity breeds connection) found in many social networks to the study of global trade. Using a large data set about global bilateral trade from 1950 through 2000, analyzed by the gravity model borrowed from international economics, this study identifies increased geographic and cultural homophily in global trade, suggesting that countries increasingly favor their geographically and culturally proximate counterparts in global trade. Another analysis of bilateral trade data at the sector level produces an explanation for this observed intensification of geo-cultural homophily. The technological and institutional improvements facilitate disintegration of productive activities and product differentiation, thereby intensifying geo-cultural homophily in the intermediate input and finished manufacture sectors; moreover, trade expansion in these geo-culturally sensitive sectors outpaces geo-culturally less sensitive sectors such as the raw material sector. This differential expansion of trade across sectors shifts the composition of the overall global trade and makes it more subject to geo-cultural influences. Taken together, global trade has become more geo-culturally embedded. Instead of eliminating geo-cultural homophily in global economic activities, ironically, the improved technologies provide better conditions for it to materialize and grow.
THE SOCIAL SYSTEM AND CHILDREN'S BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS

The prevalence of behavior problems in an inner city elementary school was studied longitudinally. During the study period, the administrative size of the school was cut in half and the turnover of teachers decreased. There was a corresponding drop in behavior problems, and a stabilization of problem behavior across grade levels.
Generalized cauchy representations and resonance phenomena

It is well known that if the analytically continued partial-wave scattering amplitude has a pole lying near the physical region, then a resonance occurs in the regionE ≅ER, whereEn=ER+iγ is the position of the pole. In practical calculations, the scattering amplitude can be approximated by a single-pole termf1(E)=βng(En),E)/(E-En) in the resonance region, where β is the residue offi(E) andg(E′, E) is an arbitrary analytic function ofE′ andE such thatg(E′, E)=1. The fact that many choices of the functiong(E′, E) are possible leads to an ambiguity in the representation. The relationship between the observed amplitude and the corresponding pole parameters is discussed, and it is shown that for a class of “good representations”, the position, height, and width of the resonance are independent of the choice ofg to order γ2/E2R. The corresponding situation for complex angular representations using Regge trajectories is also discussed.
Drought Reconstructions for the Continental United States

Abstract The development of a 2° lat × 3° long grid of summer drought reconstructions for the continental United States estimated from a dense network of annual tree-ring chronologies is described. The drought metric used is the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI). The number of grid points is 154 and the reconstructions cover the common period 1700–1978. In producing this grid, an automated gridpoint regression method called “point-by-point regression” was developed and tested. In so doing, a near-optimal global solution was found for its implementation. The reconstructions have been thoroughly tested for validity using PDSI data not used in regression modeling. In general, most of the gridpoint estimates of drought pass the verification tests used. In addition, the spatial features of drought in the United States have been faithfully recorded in the reconstructions even though the method of reconstruction is not explicitly spatial in its design. The drought reconstructions show that the 1930s “Dust Bow...
The configuration and solid state conformation of 3,7-dihydroxy-1,5-bis(p-bromophenyl)octahydro-1,5-diazocine

The crystal structure of 3,7-dihydroxy-1,5-bis(p-brornophenyl)octahydro-1,5-diazocine (4) has been determined from the three dimensional x-ray diffraction data. This infers a similar structure for 3,7-dihydroxy-1,5-diphenyloetahydro-1,5-diazocine (1). The molecules are in a twist crown conformation and the configuration of the hydroxyl groups on the 3,7-positions is cis.
Comparison of insulin receptor tyrosine phosphorylation under in vitro and in situ conditions: Assessment of specific protein tyrosine phosphorylation without the use of 32P-phosphate-labeled substrates

An assay which permitted a comparison of insulin receptor tyrosine phosphorylation induced under in vivo and in situ conditions was developed. It was demonstrated that the level of tyrosine phosphorylation of the receptor induced by insulin under in situ conditions exceeded by 2.3-fold the level of tyrosine phosphorylation induced under in vitro conditions. In addition, chronically treated, down-regulated cells demonstrated a significant decrease in the level of insulin receptor tyrosine phosphorylation compared to cells acutely treated with insulin. The procedure utilized an antibody specific for the insulin receptor which allowed separation of the receptor from other cellular proteins which are potential substrates for tyrosine phosphorylation. A second iodinated antibody specifically directed against phosphotyrosine residues allowed quantitation of the phosphorylated residues. Since the use of 32P-labeled substrates for phosphorylation was not required, this procedure allowed a comparison of protein phosphorylation induced under in vitro and in situ conditions. This procedure should permit investigations into the roles of other cellular factors, such as phosphatases and serine kinases, in modulating protein tyrosine phosphorylation.
A Case Study of a Ross Ice Shelf Airstream Event: A New Perspective*

Abstract A case study illustrating cloud processes and other features associated with the Ross Ice Shelf airstream (RAS), in Antarctica, is presented. The RAS is a semipermanent low-level wind regime primarily over the western Ross Ice Shelf, linked to the midlatitude circulation and formed from terrain-induced and large-scale forcing effects. An integrated approach utilizes Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite imagery, automatic weather station (AWS) data, and Antarctic Mesoscale Prediction System (AMPS) forecast output to study the synoptic-scale and mesoscale phenomena involved in cloud formation over the Ross Ice Shelf during a RAS event. A synoptic-scale cyclone offshore of Marie Byrd Land draws moisture across West Antarctica to the southern base of the Ross Ice Shelf. Vertical lifting associated with flow around the Queen Maud Mountains leads to cloud formation that extends across the Ross Ice Shelf to the north. The low-level cloud has a warm signature in thermal infrare...
Dilatation for severe esophageal stricture.

Abstract A method of retrograde dilatation is described that is safe, easy to perform, and effective even for severe stenosis of the esophagus.
Specific Patterns of Electrophile Adduction Trigger Keap1 Ubiquitination and Nrf2 Activation

Activation of the transcription factor Nrf2 regulates expression of phase II enzymes and other adaptive responses to electrophile and oxidant stress. Nrf2 concentrations are regulated by the thiol-rich sensor protein Keap1, which is an adaptor protein for Cul3-dependent ubiquitination and degradation of Nrf2. However, the links between site specificity of Keap1 modification by electrophiles and mechanisms of Nrf2 activation are poorly understood. We studied the actions of the prototypical Nrf2 inducer tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) and two biotin-tagged, thiol-reactive electrophiles, N-iodoacetyl-N-biotinylhexylenediamine (IAB) and 1-biotinamido-4-(4′-[maleimidoethyl-cyclohexane]-carboxamido)butane (BMCC). Both IAB and tBHQ induced antioxidant response element (ARE)-directed green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression in ARE/thymidine kinase GFP HepG2 cells, and both initiated nuclear Nrf2 accumulation and induction of heme oxygenase 1 in HEK293 cells. In contrast, BMCC produced none of these effects. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS) analysis of human Keap1 modified by IAB or BMCC in vitro indicated that IAB adduction occurred primarily in the central linker domain, whereas BMCC modified other Keap1 domains. Treatment of FLAG-Keap1-transfected HEK293 with the Nrf2-activating compounds IAB and tBHQ generated high molecular weight Keap1 forms, which were identified as K-48-linked polyubiquitin conjugates by immunoblotting and liquid chromatography MS-MS. Keap1 polyubiquitination coincided with Nrf2 stabilization and nuclear accumulation. In contrast, BMCC did not induce Keap1 polyubiquitination. Our results suggest that Nrf2 activation is regulated through the polyubiquitination of Keap1, which in turn is triggered by specific patterns of electrophile modification of the Keap1 central linker domain. These results suggest that Keap1 adduction triggers a switching of Cul3-dependent ubiquitination from Nrf2 to Keap1, leading to Nrf2 activation.
Transactions, volume and volatility: evidence from an emerging market

We examine the volume–volatility relation, which has previously been reported as positive in many markets, for the emerging market of Taiwan. Our findings suggest that the positive volume–volatility relation is driven entirely by daily number of trades. In fact, we observe a negative relation between trade size and volatility. Although the impact of individual (vs. institutional) traders may be greater in emerging markets, these findings have implications for market microstructure models and the design of electronic call market auctions.
Radical prostatectomy for prostatic adenocarcinoma: a matched comparison of open retropubic and robot-assisted techniques.

OBJECTIVE To assess the perioperative complications and early oncological results in a comparative study matching open radical retropubic (RRP) and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) groups. PATIENTS AND METHODS From August 2002 to December 2005 we identified 294 patients undergoing RARP for clinically localized prostate cancer. A comparison RRP group of 588 patients from the same period was matched 2:1 for surgical year, age, preoperative prostate-specific antigen level, clinical stage and biopsy Gleason grade. Perioperative complications were compared. Patients completed a standardized quality-of-life questionnaire. Pathological features were assessed and Kaplan-Meier estimates of biochemical progression-free survival (PFS) were compared. RESULTS There was no significant difference in overall perioperative complications between the RARP and RRP groups (8.0% vs 4.8%, P = 0.064). Wound herniation was more common after RARP (1.0% vs none, P = 0.038), and development of bladder neck contracture was more common after RRP (1.2% vs 4.6%; P < 0.018). The hospital stay was less after RARP (29.3% vs 19.4%, P = 0.004, for a stay of 1 day). At the 1-year follow-up there was no significant difference in continence (RARP 91.8%, RRP 93.7%, P = 0.344) or potency (RARP 70.0%, RRP 62.8%, P = 0.081) rates. The biochemical PFS was no different between treatments at 3 years (RARP 92.4%, RRP 92.2%; P = 0.69). CONCLUSION There was no significant difference in overall early complication, long-term continence or potency rates between the RARP and RRP techniques. Furthermore, early oncological outcomes were similar, with equivalent margin positivity and PFS between the groups.
Mercury and selected pesticide levels in fish and wildlife of Utah: I. Levels of mercury, DDT, DDE, dieldrin and PCB in fish.

Levels of mercury and selected pesticides were determined in the muscle tissue of fish obtained from different regions in the state of Utah. The levels of mercury present were generally lower than the guideline limit (0.5 ppm) in most fish except those obtained from one localized area (Willard Bay Reservoir). Predators had the greatest accumulation of mercury. Only small amounts of pesticide; were found in fish. A majority of the tissues contained appreciable levels of PCB's. No definite relationship between the levels of mercury and pesticides or PCB's was noted.
Making public transportation schedule information consumable for improved decision making

Traffic chaos is increasing by the day in cities around the world, and especially in developing countries, due to rapid increase in the use of private vehicles. One reason for this trend is the lack of information about commuting choices possible with the existing public transportation network. Although schedules of individual modes may be available, they are not amenable to direct analysis and furthermore, do not give an integrated view of the services possible in the city. In this paper, we describe an efficient approach to transform readily available schedules into a more consumable standard form, and demonstrate its usage in a decision support tool for commuting choice selection. We have fine-tuned the process to remove common schedule errors and provide an integrated network view, and can easily incorporate new cities into the system within days for improved decision support. Our approach is complementary to other alternatives that work with real-time data, e.g., GPS on buses, but need longer time, investment and extensive instrumentation to implement.
Leishmania infantum sterol 24-c-methyltransferase formulated with MPL-SE induces cross-protection against L. major infection

The enzyme sterol 24-c-methyltranferase (SMT) is required for the biosynthesis of ergosterol, the major membrane sterol in Leishmania parasites. SMT and ergosterol are not found in mammals, so this protein may be an attractive target for anti-leishmanial vaccines and drugs. We have previously demonstrated that SMT from L. infantum, which causes visceral leishmaniasis, is a protective antigen against this parasite. Because this protein is highly conserved among Leishmania species, we evaluated the potential of SMT to cross-protect against a different form of leishmaniasis. Here, we show that immunization with L. infantum SMT, formulated with monophosphoryl lipid A in stable emulsion (MPL-SE), protects mice from cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by L. major. In BALB/c mice the vaccine preparation induced antigen-specific multi-functional CD4(+) T cells capable of producing IFN-gamma, IL-2, and/or TNF-alpha upon antigen re-exposure, and MPL-SE was indispensable to direct immune responses to SMT towards Th1. Mice immunized with the SMT/MPL-SE vaccine developed significantly smaller lesions following ear challenge with L. major. These results suggest that SMT is a promising vaccine antigen for multiple forms of leishmaniasis.
A rapid screening procedure for the isolation of nonconditional replication mutants of Mason-Pfizer monkey virus: identification of a mutant defective in pol.

Abstract A rapid, sensitive, and reproducible method for the isolation of human cell clones containing nonconditional, replication-defective (rd) mutants of Mason-Pfizer monkey virus (M-PMV), the prototype of the D-type retroviruses is described. The two mutants, rd1 and rd2, thus far isolated have been analyzed for virus particle production (using radiolabeled precursors and by electron microscopy) and for the status of intracellular viral precursors. Thin sections of rdl and rd2 infected cells showed typical M-PMV particles when observed under electron microscope. A more direct assay of virus production, by labeling the mutant cell clones with [3H]uridine, also showed a distinct virus peak at an approximate density of 1.16 g/ml when culture fluids from rd1 and rd2 were analyzed. Analyses of these two mutants showed no defect in either gag or env gene products, however, further analysis of rd1 showed that the Pr180gag-pol was altered in its migration on gSDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and no reverse transcriptase activity could be detected in rd1 virions. Mutant rd2, on the other hand, assembles noninfectious virus particles that are otherwise indistinguishable from those produced by wild-type cell clones. The biochemical basis for the defect in this mutant remains to be established.
Empowering staff: creation of a staff technology development center

Drew University has been involved in Faculty Technology Development for years, providing extra technology services to the faculty to assist them in using technology more effectively in teaching. However, the staff contingent of the University had been shut out of these resources. They had been provided only with the same basic resources offered to the general public. There had been little effort expended to meet or even understand the developing technology needs of staff at the University. In January of 2002, Academic Technology created the Staff Technology Lab with the intent to provide analogous services to the staff population that the Faculty Technology Lab provided. The real challenges to the creation of the Staff Technology Lab were questions no one had bothered to ever ask before. This paper will explore the processes that the Staff Lab Coordinator undertook to create the resources and services necessary to provided appropriate support and training to the Staff, so they could make the most efficient use of the technology available. It will also cover the services currently provided by the Staff Technology Lab and plans for future expansion of the services provided to encourage the staff to be as self-sufficient as possible.
Evidence for a glucosyl-enzyme intermediate in the β-glucosidase-catalyzed hydrolysis of p-Nitrophenyl-β-D-Glucoside

Abstract The reaction of almond β-glucosidase with p -nitrophenyl-β- D -glucoside has been investigated over the temperature range +25° to −45° using 50% aqueous dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as solvent. At temperatures below those at which turnover occurs a “burst” of p -nitrophenol proportional to the enzyme concentration is observed. Such a “burst” suggests the existence of a glucosyl-enzyme intermediate whose breakdown is rate-limiting, and provides a method for measuring the active-site normality. At pH 5.9, 25°, the presence of 50% DMSO causes an increase in Km from 1.7×10−3M (0%) to 1.7×10−2M, whereas Vmax is unchanged. The DMSO thus apparently acts as a competitive inhibitor with Ki = 0.7M. The Arrhenius plot for turnover is linear over the accessible temperature range with Ea = 23.0 ± 2.0 kcal/mole.
Deformation of Spherical Caps Impacted into Water

Effect of axisymmetric impact against water on shallow clamped aluminum spherical shell-type caps
Acs Approval Of Chemistry Degree Programs: Benefits And Pitfalls

The influence of a professional society on education at the undergraduate level is illustrated for the discipline of chemistry.
Motor vehicle sizes in 1440 fatal crashes

Abstract All motor vehicle related fatalities, including pedestrian, motorcyclist and bicyclist deaths, in 1970–1971 in Maryland were examined by vehicle size, driver descriptives, and situational variables. Occupant deaths per 100,000 vehicle years registered were substantially higher among smaller vehicles but pedestrian deaths were higher for larger vehicles. Motorcycles, tractor-trailer trucks and cars with wheelbases of 105 inches (2.67 meters) or less respectively, had first, second and third highest deaths per years registered for their occupants or riders and pedestrians combined. Variations in driver descriptives or situational variables did not account for the relationship between size and fatal injury. More than 88% of occupants, after exclusion of each index death, survived—suggesting that better energy management in vehicles would increase survival substantially.
Increasing extracellular matrix production in regenerating cartilage with intermittent physiological pressure.

Isolated equine chondrocytes, from juveniles and adults, were cultured in resorbable polyglycolic acid meshes for up to 5 weeks with semicontinuous feeding using a custom-made system to intermittently compress the regenerating tissue. Assays of the tissue constructs indicate that intermittent compression at 500 and 1000 psi (3.44 and 6.87 MPa, respectively) stimulated the production of extracellular matrix, enhancing the rate of de novo chondrogenesis. Constructs derived from juvenile cells contained concentrations of extracellular matrix components at levels more like that of native tissue than did constructs derived from adult cells. With intermittent pressurization, however, even adult cells were induced to increase the production of extracellular matrix. At both levels of intermittent pressure, the concentration of sulfated glycosaminoglycan in constructs from juvenile cells was found to be up to ten times greater than concentrations in control (nonpressurized) and adult cell-derived constructs. Whereas collagen concentrations in the 500 psi and control constructs were not significantly different for either juvenile or adult cell-derived constructs, intermittent pressurization at 1000 psi enhanced the production of collagen, suggesting that there may be a minimum level of pressure necessary to stimulate collagen formation.
Infrared measurement of human skin temperature to predict the individual maximum safe radiant exposure (IMSRE).

Background and Objectives Radiant exposure (RE) is a critical treatment parameter to be optimized for laser hair removal (LHR). An objective and quantitative method to assess the individual maximum safe radiant exposure (IMSRE) would help clinicians optimize LHR while at the same time providing the safest possible laser therapy. Study Design Pulsed photo-thermal radiometry (PPTR) measurements were on a total of 403 spots on 13 volunteers. The radiometric signal at 20 milliseconds after the diagnostic laser pulse was used to predict the IMSRE using a simple analytic relationship. Laser pulses (wavelength 755 nm, 3 milliseconds pulse, 50 milliseconds cryogen spray cooling, 30 milliseconds delay) with RE's below and above the predicted IMSRE (range: 10–100 J/cm2) were applied and resulting injuries quantified through blind scoring. Results IMSRE can be predicted quite robustly with PPTR for the broad range of human skin photo-types (I–IV) considered in this study. Conclusions The method presented herein should be useful in helping clinicians optimize LHR on an individual patient basis, with the highest possible safety. Lasers Surg. Med. 39:757–766, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea and colitis: clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment.

PURPOSE: This review examines the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and current medical and operative strategies in the treatment ofClostridium difficile diarrhea and colitis. Prevention and future avenues of research are also investigated. METHODS: A review of the literature was conducted with the use of MEDLINE. RESULTS:C. difficile is a gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium capable of causing toxigenic colitis in susceptible patients, usually those receiving antibiotics. Overgrowth of toxigenic strains may result in a spectrum of disease, including becoming an asymptomatic carrier, diarrhea, self-limited colitis, fulminant colitis, and toxic megacolon. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and depends on clinical data, laboratory stool studies (enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay and cytotoxin test), and endoscopy in selected cases. Protocols for treatment of primary and relapsing infections are provided in algorithm format. Discontinuation of antibiotics may be enough to resolve symptoms. Medical management with oral metronidazole or vancomycin is the first-line therapy for those with symptomatic colitis. Teicoplanin,Saccharomyces spp. andLactobacillus spp., and intravenous IgG antitoxin are reserved for more recalcitrant cases. Refractory or relapsing infections may require vancomycin given orally or other newer modalities. Fulminant colitis and toxic megacolon warrant subtotal colectomy. Cost, in terms of extended hospital stay, medical and surgical management, and, in some cases, ward closure, is thought to be formidable. Review of perioperative antibiotic policies and analysis of hospital formularies may contribute to prevention and decreased costs. CONCLUSION:C. difficile diarrhea and colitis is a nosocomial infection that may result in significant morbidity, mortality, and medical costs. Standard laboratory studies and endoscopic evaluation assist in the diagnosis of clinically suspicious cases. Appropriate perioperative antibiotic dosing, narrowing the antibiotic spectrum when treating infections, and discontinuing antibiotics at appropriate intervals prevent toxic sequelae.
Semi-Empirical Method for Developing a Centrifuge Performance Map

Centrifuge performance maps are useful for characterizing the separation parameters of a particular centrifuge over a range of operating parameters such as feed rate and cut. Typically, to develop a performance map, the internal hydrodynamics and isotope diffusion must be modeled, requiring knowledge of the centrifuge geometry and operating conditions. Due to the sensitive nature of centrifuge information, these parameters are usually not available. In some cases, some information about the performance of the centrifuge may be inferred from publicly available information. In these cases, a method for estimating the centrifuge performance over a range of operating conditions can be useful. In this paper, a semi-empirical method for developing a centrifuge performance map from known performance data is presented. The method is based on analyzing the centrifuge as a square cascade with three characterizing parameters. To verify the model, centrifuge separative power and separation factor are compared with re...
Is J enough? Comparison of gravitational waves emitted along the total angular momentum direction with other preferred orientations

The gravitational-wave signature emitted from a merging binary depends on the orientation of an observer relative to the binary. Previous studies suggest that emission along the total initial or total final angular momenta leads to both the strongest and simplest signal from a precessing compact binary. In this paper we describe a concrete counterexample: a binary with m1/m2=4, a1=0.6xˆ=−a2, placed in orbit in the x, y plane. We extract the gravitational-wave emission along several proposed emission directions, including the initial (Newtonian) orbital angular momentum; the final (≃ initial) total angular momentum; and the dominant principal axis of ⟨L(aLb)⟩M. Using several diagnostics, we show that the suggested preferred directions are not representative. For example, only for a handful of other directions (p≲15%) will the gravitational-wave signal have comparable shape to the one extracted along each of these fiducial directions, as measured by a generalized overlap (>0.95). We conclude that the information available in just one direction (or mode) does not adequately encode the complexity of orientation-dependent emission for even short signals from merging black-hole binaries. Future investigations of precessing, unequal-mass binaries should carefully explore and model their orientation-dependent emission.
Retraining: Is it the answer to the computer faculty shortage?

This paper reports on the experiences acquired in initiating a summer retraining program to prepare college faculty to teach undergraduate computing. The distinction between formal and informal retraining, the benefits of formal retraining, and the justification for credentializing such programs with a masters degree are also discussed.
A game theoretic analysis of congressional power distributions for a stable two‐party system

Attempts to make behavioral science a science often hinge on making vague terms precise or quantifiable, if possible. From game theory comes a definition of “power” (as applied to coalitions) in precise and quantifiable form. Once one has a quantitative definition of power, one wonders how this quantity will be distributed in a body of men with partially the same and partially opposite interests and under the influence of various other considerations. It is assumed here that the American legislative apparatus (involving both Congress and the President) is such a body. The picture is necessarily a drastically simplified one, but it has some essential and recognizable features of its referent: majority rule, the veto, the overriding of the veto, the two-party system, the defections of some members from one party to the other, the “die hards” who never defect. The results of rigorous analysis are in general in agreement with the “findings” of the political scientists about where the power resides under various conditions. But in addition this game-theoretical approach calls attention to other results, which are not often emphasized or realized. The method thus provides a framework for future enrichment and refinement of exact methods in political science.
Characterization of epistasis influencing complex spontaneous obesity in the BSB model

There is growing awareness that complex interactions among multiple genes and environmental factors play an important role in controlling obesity traits. The BSB mouse, which is produced by the backcross of (lean C57BL/6J × lean Mus spretus) × C57BL/6J, provides an excellent model of epistatic obesity. To evaluate potential epistatic interactions among six chromosomal regions previously determined to influence obesity phenotypes, we performed novel Bayesian analyses on the basis of both epistatic and nonepistatic models for four obesity traits: percentage of body fat, adiposity index, total fat mass, and body weight, and also for plasma total cholesterol. The epistatic analysis detected at least one more QTL than the nonepistatic analysis did for all obesity traits. These obesity traits were variously influenced by QTL on chromosomes 2, 7, 12, 15, and 16. Interaction between genes on chromosomes 2 and 12 was present for all obesity traits, accounting for 3–4.8% of the phenotypic variation. Chromosome 12 was found to have weak main effects on all obesity traits. Several different epistatic interactions were also detected for percentage of body fat, adiposity index, and total fat mass. Chromosomes 6 and 12 have not only main effects but also strong epistatic effects on plasma total cholesterol. Our results emphasize the importance of modeling epistasis for discovery of obesity genes.