cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Communicating Quantitative Literacy: An Examination of Open-Ended Assessment Items in TIMSS, NALS, IALS, and PISA

Quantitative Literacy (QL) has been described as the skill set an individual uses when interacting with the world in a quantitative manner. A necessary component of this interaction is communication. To this end, assessments of QL have included open-ended items as a means of including communicative aspects of QL. The present study sought to examine whether such open-ended items typically measured aspects of quantitative communication, as compared to mathematical communication, or mathematical skills. We focused on public-released items and rubrics from four of the most widely referenced assessments: the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS-95): the National Adult Literacy Survey (NALS; now the National Assessment of Adult Literacy, NAAL) in 1985 and 1992, the International Adult Literacy Skills (IALS) beginning in 1994; and the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) beginning in 2000. We found that open-ended item rubrics in these QL assessments showed a strong tendency to assess answeronly responses. Therefore, while some open-ended items may have required certain levels of quantitative reasoning to find a solution, it is the solution rather than the reasoning that was often assessed.
Meta-analysis in Second Language Research: Choices and Challenges

Applied linguists are increasingly conducting meta-analysis in their substantive domains, because as a quantitative approach for averaging effect sizes across studies, it is more systematic and replicable than traditional, qualitative literature reviews. Additional strengths, such as increased statistical power, moderator analyses, and model testing, have also contributed to its appeal. The current review describes typical stages of a meta-analysis in second language acquisition (SLA) research: (a) defining the research domain, (b) developing a reliable coding scheme, (c) analyzing data, and (d) interpreting results. Each stage has a host of equally reasonable decisions that can be made; each decision will influence the conduct of the meta-analysis, the nature of the results, and the substantive implications of findings for SLA. We highlight a number of benefits and challenges that inform these decisions. In general, when a meta-analysis in applied linguistics is well planned, employs sound statistical methods, and is based on a thorough understanding of relevant theory, it can provide critical information that informs theory as well as future research, practice, and policy.
Determination of dehydroepiandrosterone and total neutral 17-ketosteroids in human plasma.

Summary A method for separate estimation of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and total 17-ketosteroids (17-KS) in human blood plasma is described. The plasma is partly purified before hydrolysis of conjugated steroids. Cleavage of conjugates is achieved by combined use of solvolysis and acid hydrolysis. After additional purification the final extract is divided to permit estimation of DHEA by an ethanol-sulfuric acid reaction and of neutral 17-KS by the Zimmermann reaction. Mean corrected levels of DHEA by this method are 130.6 μg/100 ml plasma for normal male subjects and 97.0 μg/100 ml for normal female subjects. The mean total neutral 17-KS levels for males is 181.0 μg/100 ml plasma and for females 126.5 μg/100 ml plasma, respectively. Average recoveries of DHEA and androsterone sulfate are in excess of 70% when either of these steroid conjugates is taken through the entire method.
On Enhancing Plausibility of the Missing at Random Assumption in Incomplete Data Analyses via Evaluation of Response-Auxiliary Variable Correlations

A procedure for evaluating candidate auxiliary variable correlations with response variables in incomplete data sets is outlined. The method provides point and interval estimates of the outcome-residual correlations with potentially useful auxiliaries, and of the bivariate correlations of outcome(s) with the latter variables. Auxiliary variables found in this way can enhance considerably the plausibility of the popular missing at random (MAR) assumption if included in ensuing maximum likelihood analyses, or can alternatively be incorporated in imputation models for subsequent multiple imputation analyses. The approach can be particularly helpful in empirical settings where violations of the MAR assumption are suspected, as is the case in many longitudinal studies, and is illustrated with data from cognitive aging research.
Use of Animal Models for Detecting Specific Alterations in Reproduction

Conventional tests of reproductive toxicity may fail to detect the effects of some agents altering reproductive functions in the male or female. A valid study of reproductive toxicity must be based on a sound understanding of the underlying reproductive physiology, use of sensitive and precise analytical methods, a powerful experimental design, and evaluation of multiple criteria in both the male and female. Potential sites and mechanisms of action of an agent affecting reproduction were considered together with approaches for tests that might be used. Development of new in vitro tests, based on procedures used for probing reproductive physiology, would be desirable. Procedures for detecting alterations in male reproductive function using animal models were considered in detail. For example, spermatogenesis is a long process and a toxic agent may alter functionality of a testicular cell type several days or weeks before this toxicity is detectable as a change in spermatogenesis. Several weeks or months may pass before a detectable change in semen occurs. Therefore, tests utilizing appropriate animal models should have a duration that is six times the duration of one cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. Evaluations of male reproductive function would be enhanced by including determinations of testicular spermatid reserves, selected simple but precise and meaningful quantitative evaluations of testicular histology, determination of the number of sperm within the distal half of the epididymis, evaluation of the progressive motility and morphology of sperm from the distal end of the epididymis, and measurement of the concentration of follicle stimulating hormone in blood. For rabbits, longitudinal analyses of seminal quality are important.
Feed additive larviciding to control face fly.

Insecticides were fed to dairy cattle to face-fly-larvicide subsequent manure. Effectiveness was tested by introducing first-instar larvae. Effective were zinc oxide (40 mg/kg body weight); fenthion, barthrin, dimethrin, and 3-4 dimethyl benzyl ester of chrysanthemumic acid (10 mg/kg); coumaphos (0.25 to 10 mg/kg); ronnel (1 mg/kg); and Bayer 22408 (naphthaloximido-O,O-diethyl phosphorothioate) (0.25 and 1 mg/kg). Bacillus thuriugiensis, ground Ryania speciosa stem (wood (alkaloid ry anodine) C25H35O9N or C20H37O9N), carbaryl, methoxychlor, malathion, diazinon, and sodium zirconium lactate were ineffective at dosages tested.
High-resolution separation of DNA restriction fragments using capillary electrophoresis with near-IR, diode-based, laser-induced fluorescence detection

The near-IR dye thiazole green (TAG) was used as a monomeric nuclear staining dye for the low-level detection of DNA restriction fragments separated via high-performance capillary electrophoresis with near-IR laser-induced fluorescence detection. TAG possessed an absorption maximum at 735 nm and an emission maximum at approximately 765 nm and, in the presence of dsDNAs, showed a fluorescence enhancement ratio of approximately 102, with a binding constant to dsDNAs determined to be 6.1 × 106 M-1. The high-resolution separation of the HaeIII restriction digest of ΦX174 was carried out using capillary electrophoresis on the native, ethidium bromide-stained, and TAG-stained DNA fragments. The TAG-stained DNA fragments resulted in higher plate numbers compared to the native and EtBr-stained restriction fragments as well as enhanced resolution; however, the 271/281 fragments could not be resolved using these CE conditions. To investigate the detection sensitivity of the TAG-stained DNA in capillary electrophore...
Some effects of 5 eV photons on defects in SiO2

The effects of 5 eV photons on the optical absorption bands and paramagnetic centers produced by a prior γ-ray irradiation of type III and IV silicas have been measured. Silica samples obtained from two commercial sources were irradiated with 137Cs γ-rays to a dose of ∼108 R at an ambient temperature of ∼35°C. The samples were then exposed to 5 eV photons supplied by a pulsed KrF excimer laser. The samples were exposed to pulses from 100 to 11 500 with 150 mJ per pulse per cm−2. Sample temperatures during exposure were <40°C. Optical absorption spectra were measured with a double beam spectrometer in the 1–6 eV range at a temperature of 22°C. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra were measured with a homodyne spectrometer at 9.7 GHz, room temperature and 110 K and at various power levels. After 100 pulses, a band with a peak at 5.5 eV was bleached in the spectra of type III samples. No additional bleaching was observed after 1500 pulses. After 11 500 pulses, a decrease in absorption at 5.8 eV was observed. In the EPR spectra, the E′ center concentration increased by a factor of 1.8 and the concentration of the non-bridging oxygen centers (NBOHCs) did not change after 100 pulses. No additional changes were observed after 1500 pulses. After 11 500 pulses, a decrease of the order of 69% in the E′ center concentration and a decrease of the order of 26% in the NBOHCs was observed. In the spectra of the type IV samples, a band with a peak at ∼4.85 eV was bleached by the first 100 pulses and no additional changes were observed up to 1500 pulses. A band with a peak at ∼5.8 eV decreased with exposure to 11 500 pulses. The E′ center concentration increased by a factor of 1.5 after 100 pulses, did not change after 1500 pulses and decreased by 84% after 11 500 pulses. The peroxy radical molecule ion concentration decreased to below detectability after 800 pulses and a new paramagnetic state grew with increasing number of pulses up to 1500 pulses, after which no additional increase was observed. No oxygen-related center was detected for any exposure in the type III samples. It is concluded that there are at least three bands absorbing at ∼5.8 eV, the E′ center, the E″ center and another band. The 4.8 absorption bleached by 5 eV photons is attributed to the peroxy radical. The absorption at ∼5.5 eV bleached by 5 eV photons is not attributed to any of the paramagnetic states.
The thermal light emission properties of alathon 1 effect of experimental parameters

Abstract DSC and light emission (LE) curves were obtained in nitrogen, air, and oxygen atmospheres between 300 and 700 K for Alathon 1, a cube-cut polyethylene molding powder. In air and oxygen, light-emitting as well as thermal degradation reactions showed the expected dependence on oxygen concentration. In nitrogen, initial light emission was shown to involve oxygen absorbed in the polymer sample. Upon depletion of the latter, less intense light emission was observed indicating a different light emitting reaction. Between 385 and 460 K an activation energy of 80 KJ mol −1 was estimated for light-emitting reactions in N 2 , O 2 and air atmospheres. Evidence of a first-order dependence on oxygen concentration was also obtained.
Improved methods for determination of RNA and DNA

Abstract Nucleic acids (RNA and DNA) can be separated from extraneous materials by precipitation as their cadmium salts. This separation substantially improves the reliability of subsequent determinations of RNA by the orcinol method and of DNA by the diphenylamine method. In addition, color formation in the orcinol reaction is stabilized by addition of n-butanol to the reaction mixture, thereby improving the precision of the method.
Positive Selection, Cloning Vectors for Gram-Positive Bacteria Based on a Restriction Endonuclease Cassette

Lactococcus lactis contains numerous restriction and modification (R/M) systems of different specificities. A novel IIS type R/M system encoded by the LlaI operon has previously been characterized from the L. lactis conjugative plasmid pTR2030. The LlaI operon is composed of six genes: First, a small regulatory gene llaIC precedes the methylase gene llaIM. The following three genes, llaI.1, llaI.2, llaI.3, are all essential for restriction endonuclease activity and are designed as the restriction cassette llaIR. The forth open reading frame of unknown function follows the llaIR gene cassette. We have successfully subcloned the three llaIR genes, llaI.1, llaI.2, and llaI.3, without llaIM, as a suicide cassette into the three shuttle vectors pTRKL2, pTRKH2, and pBV5030. A promoter (P6) from Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356, which is functional in E. coli, lactococci, and lactobacilli (Djordjevic and Topisirovic, unpublished) was cloned upstream of the three gene cassette. Restriction activity was evaluated in Escherichia coli and several gram-positive bacteria. The llaIR restriction cassette was not functional in E. coli, but its presence was lethal to L. lactis, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus johnsonii, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Carnobacterium pisicola, Enterococcus faecalis, Bacillus subtilis, and Leuconostoc gelidum. Several novel, positive selection cloning vectors were developed that can exploit unique cloning sites within the llaIR cassette. Insertions in llaI.1 resulted in complete inactivation of restriction activity and provided unconditional selection for recombinant plasmids in surviving transformants. These positive selection cloning vectors are the first for gram-positive bacteria that are based on a restriction endonuclease cassette. Functional activity of the llaIR genes in various gram-positive bacteria would also enable use of these cloning vectors for positive selection of promoters, terminators, and regulatory sequences across these genera.
Formation of junctions and cell sorting in aggregates of chick and mouse cells

Abstract The frequency of desmosome formation was examined in aggregates of old cells, which form many junctions, combined with young cells, which form few. Cells of chick corneal epithelium and mouse epidermis, which can be distinguished morphologically, were combined. Desmosomes between these cell types are stable. Further, young cells make more desmosomes than they otherwise would on those surfaces adjoining old cells. Desmosomes increase in number in aggregates while cell sorting is occurring. Cells consistently sort, with those which form most desmosomes lying internally. Gap junctions and intermediate junctions are also present, but are uncommon. A carbohydrate cell-surface coat has regenerated by the time desmosome formation starts. The possible relation of desmosome formation to cell sorting is discussed.
Activation of JNK1, RSK2, and MSK1 is involved in serine 112 phosphorylation of Bad by ultraviolet B radiation.

The Bcl-2 family member Bad is a pro-apoptotic protein, and phosphorylation of Bad by cytokines and growth factors promotes cell survival in many cell types. Induction of apoptosis by UV radiation is well documented. However, little is known about UV activation of cell survival pathways. Here, we demonstrate that UVB induces Bad phosphorylation at serine 112 in JNK1, RSK2, and MSK1-dependent pathways. Inhibition of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases including ERKs, JNKs, and p38 kinase by the use of their respective dominant negative mutant or a specific inhibitor for MEK1 or p38 kinase, PD98059 or SB202190, resulted in abrogation of UVB-induced phosphorylation of Bad at serine 112. Incubation of active MAP kinase members with Bad protein showed serine 112 phosphorylation of Bad by JNK1 only. However, activated RSK2 and MSK1, downstream kinases of ERKs and p38 kinase, respectively, also phosphorylated Bad at serine 112 in vitro. Cells from a Coffin-Lowry syndrome patient (deficient in RSK2) or expressing an N-terminal or C-terminal kinase-dead mutant of MSK1 were defective for UVB-induced serine 112 phosphorylation of Bad. Furthermore, MAP kinase pathway-dependent serine 112 phosphorylation was shown to be required for dissociation of Bad from Bcl-XL. These data illustrated that UVB-induced phosphorylation of Bad at serine 112 was mediated through MAP kinase signaling pathways in which JNK1, RSK2, and MSK1 served as direct mediators.
Experimental isotope shifts of the 5 2 S 1/2 state and low-lying excited states of Rb

By combining a recent precise measurement of the ionization energy of ${}^{87}$Rb with previous measurements of the ground-state hyperfine structure and ionization energy of ${}^{85}$Rb, an accurate value for the ${}^{85}\text{Rb}{\ensuremath{-}}^{87}\text{Rb}$ isotope shift of the 5 ${}^{2}\phantom{\rule{-0.16em}{0ex}}{S}_{1/2}$ ground state can be determined. In turn, comparison with additional spectroscopic data makes it possible to evaluate isotope shifts for the low-lying excited states, which are accurate in most cases to about 1 MHz. For the 5 ${}^{2}\phantom{\rule{-0.16em}{0ex}}{S}_{1/2}$ and 5 ${}^{2}\phantom{\rule{-0.16em}{0ex}}{P}_{3/2}$ states, the specific mass-shift contribution can be determined in addition to the total shift. This information is particularly useful for spectroscopic analysis of transitions to Rydberg states and for tests of atomic theory.
OBSERVATION OF STRONG FORWARD EMISSION DUE TO UV MULTIPHOTON-DISSOCIATIVE EXCITATION OF CH4:N2 MIXTURE

Abstract The multiphoton dissociative excitation in a high pressure mixture of CH4: N2 has been investigated using a third harmonics of a Nd: YAG laser under various experimental conditions, namely at a fixed pump energy (10mJ) and CH4 pressure (300PSI), varying the N2pressure; at a fixed pump energy (10mJ) and N2 (30PSI), varying CH4 pressure; at fixed CH4 and N2 pressure of 300PSI and 30PSI respectively, varying the pump energy. We have observed the first positive system, B3πg→A3π+ u(v′=10; v″=5) at 544nm; second positive system, C3πu-B3πgat 434. 4nm (v′=0; v″=4) and at 405. 9nm (v′=0, v″=3) due to neutral N2. We also have observed CN band B2Σ→X2Σ(v′=11; v″=11). at 392nm. These emitted signals have the same spectral directionality as the pump beam. The transition at 434. 4nm is due to four photon excitation with a rate-limiting step that scales as a two photon process. The CN band is due to three photon processes. Spontaneous emission for the (B-A), (C-B) of N2 and CN (B-X) band systems were observed bu...
Dynamics of Photoinduced Proton-Coupled Electron Transfer at Molecule−Semiconductor Interfaces: A Reduced Density Matrix Approach

A theoretical model for describing the dynamics of photoinduced proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) at molecule−semiconductor interfaces is presented. In this model, the electron is photoexcited to a molecular electronic state near the semiconductor surface, and the subsequent electron transfer to the conduction band of the semiconductor is coupled to a proton transfer reaction. The electron could be photoexcited from the ground to an excited electronic state within a dye molecule at the interface or from the defect band in the semiconductor to a molecular adsorbate layer. A model Hamiltonian is developed to describe this PCET process, and the equations of motion for the reduced density matrix elements in the basis of electron−proton vibronic states are derived. This formulation is used to calculate the time-dependent electronic and vibronic state populations for a series of model systems. These calculations provide insight into the hydrogen/deuterium isotope effect on the dynamics of the donor state ...
The fracture toughness and fatigue behavior of DRA

‘In this study, the fracture toughness and elevated-temperature tensile and fatigue behavior of discontinuously reinforced aluminum (DRA) were examined. The effects of heat treatment and specimen thickness on fracture toughness were studied in a 7093/SiCp composite. The toughness of the DRA was lowest in the peak-aged condition, but increased considerably in the overaged condition. The highest toughness was obtained at a critical value of specimen thickness; this critical value was used to fabricate a laminated composite consisting of alternating layers of DRA and unreinforced alloy. Elevated-temperature tensile and fatigue behaviors were investigated in a 2080-T6/SiCp composite at different volume fractions and particle sizes. Increasing reinforcement volume fractions resulted in increases in tensile and fatigue strength. Exposure tests for 300 h at 150°C produced no significant reduction in ultimate tensile strength or yield strength, indicating good thermal stability of the 2080 matrix.
Does parents' valuation of children's health mimic their valuation of own health?

A single latent variable model of health status and therapeutic health care utilization is estimated for parents and own children of 6,557 US households. The equation system that identifies latent health status simultaneously determines a number of indicators of general health, including presence of morbidity symptoms, mobility limitations, medication needs, and utilization of therapeutic health care services. The main goal of the paper was to obtain an unbiased estimate of parents’ marginal substitution rate between own and child health. Results indicate that parents’ valuation of their children’s health exceeds their valuation of own health by almost twofold on average.
Numerical calculations of collision frequency of molecules with DLA clusters

Abstract Collision diameters were determined for point molecules colliding with clusters of uniform elementary particles (monomers). The clusters were formed by diffusion-limited aggregation (DLA). Monte Carlo simulations of molecular collisions were made for clusters of 10, 46, 215, and 1000 monomers. The collision diameter relative to the diameter of the monomer particles composing the cluster depends on the number of monomers composing the cluster, N, and the Knudsen number (Kn = molecular mean free path/particle monomer radius). Values of Kn were varied from 2 to 200. The dimensionless collision diameter for Kn = 200 is related to the cluster size by the expression dcl/d0 ≈ N0.446. An effectiveness factor, ϵ, was defined as the ratio of the mean collision frequency per monomer particle in a cluster to the collision frequency of an individual particle with the same size. The effectiveness factor for DLA clusters of 1000 monomers ranged between 0.31 and 0.54, depending on the Knudsen number and ratio of collision diameter of molecules to monomer diameter.
Geographical and Temporal Variation in Pteromalid (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) Parasitism of Stable Fly and House Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) Pupae Collected from Illinois Cattle Feedlots

Stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.), and house fly, Musca domestiea L., puparia were collected at cattle feedlots in southcentral and northwestern Illinois from May through August 1991–1993 to determine the prevalence and species composition of pupal parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae). Additional samples of puparia were collected in September 1991 and October 1993. Parasitoids emerged from 10.6% of nearly 13,000 stable fly puparia and 13% of >17,000 house fly puparia. Spalangia nigroaenea Curtis was the most common parasitoid of the stable fly and of the house fly, comprising ≈60% of the parasitoids that emerged from the puparia of each species. Spalangia endius Walker was the 2nd-most prevalent parasitoid overall, comprising 14.2 and 18.4% of the parasitoids recovered from stable fly and house fly pllparia, respectively. Parasitism by S. endius varied greatly from year to year and between regions. Spalangia nigra Latrielle represented a much greater portion of the parasitoids recovered from stable fly puparia than house fly puparia (16.1 versus 3.8%). S. nigra also was more common in northwestern than southcentral Illinois. Spalangia eameroni Perkins was recovered every year, but represented only 3.1 and 2.8%, respectively, of the parasitoids recovered from stable fly and house fly puparia. Muscidifurax spp. ( M. raptor Girault & Sanders and M. zaraptor Kogan & Legner) comprised 6.8 and 14.8% of the parasitoids recovered from stable fly and house fly puparia, respectively. Seasonal patterns of parasitism varied from year to year and between regions, probably in part because of substantial differences in weather each season.
Degeneration of cross striated musculature in vitamin E-low rats

ConclusionMuscular dystrophy characterizes old rats reared and maintained on diets devoid of vitamin E. The histological lesions are outstanding.
Role of neutrophil-derived oxidants in the pathogenesis of intestinal inflammation

There is a growing body of experimental data to suggest that the chronically inflamed intestine and/or colon may be subjected to considerable oxidative stress. The most probable sources of these oxidants are the phagocytic leukocytes since these cells are known to be present in large numbers in the inflamed mucosa and are known to produce significant amounts of reactive oxygen species in response to certain inflammatory stimuli. Because the colonic mucosa contains relatively small amounts of antioxidant enzymes (e.g. SOD, catalase, GSH peroxidase) it is possible that the gut mucosa may be overwhelmed during times of active inflammation which could result in intestinal injury. If reactive oxygen species play an important role in mediating mucosal injury in IBD then it should be possible to attenuate this injury by the use of antioxidants. One such drug is the sulfasalazine metabolite 5-ASA. It may not be coincidence that this potent antiinflammatory metabolite is a potent antioxidant that possesses multiple mechanisms of action including nitrogen, carbon and oxygen-centered free radical scavenging properties as well as the ability to decompose HOCl and scavenge hemoprotein-associated oxidants. In addition 5-ASA has the additional property of being able to chelate iron and render it poorly redox active. The reason that 5-ASA is so effective in vivo may be due to this multitude of antioxidant properties. This would also suggest that other, more potent antioxidants may prove beneficial in the treatment of IBD.
Thrust faults and related structures in the crater floor of Mount St. Helens volcano, Washington

A lava dome was built in the crater of Mount St. Helens by intermittent intrusion and extrusion of dacite lava between 1980 and 1986. Spectacular ground deformation was associated with the dome building events and included the development of a system of radial cracks and tangential thrust faults in the surrounding crater floor. These cracks and thrusts, best developed and studied in 1981-1982, formed because the crater fill was displaced upward and radially outward from the feeder conduit, owing to rising magma. Radial cracks formed first and, as some evolved into strike-slip tear faults, influenced the subsequent geometry of thrusting. Once faulting began, deformation was localized near the thrust scarps and their bounding tear faults. The magnitude of displacements systematically increased before extrusions, whereas the azimuth and inclination of displacements remained relatively constant. The thrust-fault scarps were bulbous in profile, lobate in plan, and steepened during continued fault movement. The hanging walls of each thrust were increasingly disrupted as cumulative fault slip increased. The crater fill was unconsolidated to weakly consolidated near the surface and influenced the morphology of the thrust-fault scarps. Similar structures have been produced by active thrust faults in other areas with unconsolidated alluvium at the surface, and in laboratory sandbox experiments.
Multinodular polymyositis in a patient with human immunodeficiency and hepatitis C virus coinfection

We report a patient who developed multiple inflammatory muscle masses and generalized polymyositis in the setting of combined human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of muscles showed patchy edema which was particularly intense within the nodular masses. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) showed no evidence of either virus within muscle. This report reviews earlier literature on muscle nodules associated with myositis and discusses the differential diagnosis of muscle masses in HIV infection.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder: a non-randomized comparison of intensive and weekly approaches.

Abstract This study examined the relative efficacy of intensive versus weekly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for adults with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Sixty-two adults with OCD received either 14 sessions of weekly ( n = 30) or intensive CBT ( n = 32; daily psychotherapy sessions) in a non-randomized format. Assessments were conducted at Pre-treatment, Post-treatment, and 3-month Follow-up by raters who were blind to treatment group at the Pre-treatment assessment. Intensive and weekly CBT were similar in efficacy at Post-treatment and Follow-up and associated with large treatment effect sizes. Since many people with OCD do not have access to trained CBT providers, intensive treatment may be a viable option in such cases.
The influence of diet on sulfonamide action

It is evident from Table 2 that the blood sugar of the control rats is constant on every diet under the present experimental conditions.
Scattering and its role in radiography simulations

The last decade has witnessed a proliferation of various radiography simulation codes. Most of these codes emphasize on a good geometrical representation of the test object. Simulated image formation is another point emphasized by these simulators. Most of the simulators use a variety of ways to generate primary beam photon energy spectrum. Apart from these common points, the simulation codes address photon object interactions with different sophistication levels. There has not been much discussion on what constitutes adequate level of physics used in these simulators. This paper provides a brief survey of these radiography efforts and discusses approaches adapted by various simulation efforts. Along with the survey of the simulation efforts, it provides an algorithm for computing scattered photon flux and shows impact of various parameters, assumptions and approximations.
Cell adhesion and regulatory molecules involved in tumor formation, hemostasis, and wound healing.

Background Dynamic changes in cell adhesion and migration are fundamental properties of the cells that are important in hemostasis, vascularization, and wound repair. Changes in cell adhesion and migration are very important in the formation of tumors, and invasion and metastasis by neoplasms. Methods Using immunolocalization and immunopurification techniques, expression of integrin molecules involved in cell adhesion has been characterized during tumor development and wound healing. The ability of cytokines to regulate expression and antibody and peptide inhibitors to inhibit function of integrins has been explored to better understand the role of integrins in pathogenesis. Results Increased suprabasilar expression of the integrins alpha 6 beta 4, alpha 2 beta 1, and alpha 3 beta 1 accompanies development of squamous cell neoplasms of the head and neck. Integrin alpha II beta 3 is an integrin receptor which is important in platelet aggregation in hemostasis and formation of tumor metastases. Increased expression of integrin alpha v beta 3 has been identified in angiogenesis in response to growth factors and tumor angiogenic factors. Cytokine TGF-beta and arachadonic acid metabolite 12(S)-HETE are important signals in regulation of integrins and affect cell aggregation and migration in these processes. Ligands and inhibitors for some of these receptors have been identified which will be useful in determining their role during tumor development and progression. Conclusion Recent advances in understanding the functions of the integrin cell adhesion molecules may soon add new diagnostic methods and therapies to the armamentarium of the head and neck oncologic, microvascular, plastic, and reconstructive surgeon. Therapies directed at controlling integrin cell-adhesion molecule expression and function are being explored to improve scar formation, bone synthesis, inhibition of vascular occlusion, and inhibition of tumor invasion and metastasis.
The reduction kinetics and mechanism of bis(2,2'-bipyridine)silver(II) ion by hydrogen peroxide

Abstract A kinetic study on the reduction of bis(2,2'-bi-pyridine)silver(II) ion by hydrogen peroxide in aqueous solution was conducted using the stopped-flow technique. The reaction is sensitive to the pH of the solution and a pH kinetic titration curve was obtained. The rate increases sharply when the pH is lowered from 3.5 to 1.75. In the pH range above 3.5 and below 1.75, the reaction is independent of pH. The second-order rate constant for the pH dependence is found to be [a(l + b[H + ] 2 )/(1 + c[H + ] 2 ]. Possible mechanisms for the pH dependency are considered and discussed.
Effects of Noncovalent and Covalent FAD Binding on the Redox and Catalytic Properties of p-Cresol Methylhydroxylase†

Each flavoprotein subunit (α or PchF) of the α2β2 flavocytochrome p-cresol methylhydroxylase (PCMH) from Pseudomonas putida contains FAD covalently attached to Tyr384. PCMH oxidizes p-cresol to 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol, which is oxidized subsequently by PCMH to 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde. The Y384F mutant form of PchF (apo-PchF[Y384F]) displayed stoichiometric noncovalent FAD binding. PchF[Y384F]FAD associated with the cytochrome subunit (β or PchC) (producing PCMH[Y384F]), although not as avidly as with wild-type PchF containing covalently bound FAD (PchFC). Dramatic increases in the two-electron Em,7 (NHE) values for FAD were observed when it bound noncovalently to either apo-PchF or apo-PchF[Y384F], and the two-electron Em,7 value for FAD was increased further by about 75 mV upon covalent binding to PchF, i.e., PchFC. The Em,7 values increased by approximately 20 and 45 mV, respectively, when PchFC and PchF[Y384F]FAD associated with PchC. The two-electron Em,7 for covalently bound FAD in PCMH is 84 mV, the h...
Effects of current velocity and substrate composition on growth of Texas wildrice (Zizania texana)

Abstract Zizania texana Hitchc., an endangered macrophyte has declined in number during the past 50 years. To determine the effects of substrate composition and current velocity on plant growth, plants were grown in pots containing either fine or coarse sediment at three sites in Spring Lake, Hays Co., TX. Each site was similar in depth but differed in current velocity. Plants were allowed to grow for 6 weeks and then harvested. Growth was greater on fine sediments. There was significant interaction between flow and sediment with respect to aboveground biomass and stem density and, there was significant flow effect on leaf length and stem density. Stem density was greater in fast flowing water (0.40–0.49 m s−1) than either moderate (0.12–0.24 m s−1) or slow flowing (0.05–0.12 m s−1) water. The decline in Zizania texana population can be attributed, in part, to physical changes to Zizania texana habitat.
Transcriptional processing of G4 DNA

Genomic DNA sequences with the ability to assume non-B form secondary structures have been recently shown to be particularly susceptible to genetic instability, an early contributing factor in human disease and cancer development. Transcription appears to play a central role in formation of these structures and in promoting instability at these sites. The subpathway of nucleotide excision DNA repair, transcription-coupled DNA repair (TCR), removes transcription-arresting damage from the transcribed strands of expressed genes, but little is known about how non-canonical DNA structures are processed when encountered by the transcription machinery. If such structures arrest transcription, they may elicit "gratuitous" TCR in which the resulting reiterative and futile repair replication might generate a significant level of mutagenesis in a frequently transcribed gene because of faulty processing in the area of transcription arrest. Here we will describe our current understanding of how TCR may be elicited at non-B DNA structures and summarize recent literature describing the behavior of RNA polymerases when encountering non-canonical DNA structures, with particular emphasis on quadruplex DNA.
Antibodies directed against an epitope in the N-terminal region of the H4L subunit of the vaccinia virus RNA polymerase inhibit both transcription initiation and transcription termination, in vitro.

Abstract The vaccinia virus virion RNA polymerase that is active in early gene transcription contains a unique subunit encoded by the H4L gene. Prior studies demonstrated that this protein is required both for early gene transcription initiation and for transcription termination. Polyclonal antibodies raised against H4L amino acids 1 to 256 prevent both initiation and termination of transcription, in vitro. Pretreatment of the anti-H4L antibody with a H4L fragment containing amino acids 1 to 99 prevents antibody inhibition of both steps, mapping the inhibitory antibody-binding site to this region. A combination of immunoprecipitation and competition studies of antibody binding to wild-type and site-specific mutations of H4L 1–195 mapped the strong epitope to a site that includes Y18. H4L fragments containing an Y18A mutation exhibit diminished ability to block antibody inhibition of transcription initiation and termination. Antibodies inhibit preinitiation complex (PIC) formation but not the activity of preformed PICs, indicating that this region of H4L interacts with one or more factors during active PIC formation. Furthermore, isolated H4L 1–195 directly inhibits PIC activity, supporting this model. Anti-H4L antibody inhibition of transcription termination is only observed in the absence of the essential termination cofactor NPH I. In contrast, antibody inhibition of PIC formation is unaffected by NPH I, demonstrating that the inhibitory antibody and NPH I can bind to H4L at the same time.
The Os and Sr isotopic record of Himalayan paleorivers: Himalayan tectonics and influence on ocean chemistry

Abstract Weathering products in Himalayan paleosols provide a unique archive of changes in 187 Os/ 188 Os and 87 Sr/ 86 Sr records of Himalayan rivers in the Neogene and can provide important constraints on the potential role of Himalayan weathering in controlling seawater isotopic compositions. Covariation in the Sr and Os isotopic records of the paleosols from the Indus and Ganges river systems indicates that these elements are derived from the same source terranes. The Os isotopic ratios from the Indus paleosols are less radiogenic than that of the paleo-oceans until ∼5 Ma, whereas Os in the Ganges system paleosols is significantly more radiogenic than seawater ratios throughout the last ∼20 Myr. Os isotopic ratios in the paleosols have increased by over 100% over the last 11 Myr in both the Indus and Ganges river systems. Variations in both the Os and Sr records of paleosols from the Ganges river system can be explained utilizing the tectonic history of the Central Himalayas. The paleosol record provides important new constraints on the potential role of Himalayan weathering in controlling seawater Sr and Os. If the Himalayan rivers systems are responsible for the observed changes in the marine Sr and Os records, then large changes in the fluxes of both these elements must be invoked to accommodate the paleosol record. Future models of marine isotopic variation need to account for potentially large and rapid changes in the riverine isotopic ratios over time.
Expression, purification, and biochemical characterization of the intron-encoded endonuclease, I-CreII.

Abstract The ORF of the Cr.psbA4 intron of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii mediates efficient intron homing, and contains an H–N–H and possibly a GIY–YIG motif. The ORF was over-expressed in Escherichia coli without non-native amino acids, but was mostly insoluble. However, co-over-expression of E. coli chaperonins GroEL/GroES solubilized ∼50% of the protein, which was purified by ion-exchange and heparin-affinity chromatography. Biochemical characterization showed that the protein is a double-strand-specific endonuclease that cleaves fused psbA exon 4–exon 5 DNA, and was named I-CreII. I-CreII has a relatively relaxed divalent metal ion requirement (Mg2+, Mn2+, Ca2+, and Fe2+ supported cleavage), is insensitive to salt
Rayleigh Light Scattering Measurements of Transient Gas Temperature in a Rapid Chemical Vapor Deposition Reactor

A laser-induced Rayleigh light scattering (RLS) system was used to measure transient gas temperatures in a simulated rapid chemical vapor deposition (RCVD) reactor. The test section geometry was an axisymmetric jet of carrier gas directed down, impinging on a heated water surface. RLS was used to measure instantaneous gas temperature at several locations above the wafer as it was heated from room temperature to 475 K. Gas flow rate and wafer temperature correspond to jet Reynolds number Re{sub i} = 60, wafer maximum Grashof number Gr{sub H} = 4.4 x 10{sup 6}, and a maximum mixed convection parameter Gr{sub H}/Re{sub i}{sup 2} = 1200; all conditions typical of impinging jet reactors common in the numerical literature. Uncertainty of RLS transient temperature from a propagated error analysis was {+-}2--4 K. Peak gas temperature fluctuations were large (in the order of 25 to 75 C). Both flow visualization and RLS measurements showed that the flow field was momentum dominated prior to heating initiation, but became unstable by Gr{sub H}/Re{sub i}{sup 2} = 5. It then consisted of buoyancy-induced plumes and recirculations. Up to the peak wafer temperature, the flow field continued to be highly three-dimensional, unsteady, and dominated by buoyancy. RLS measurementsmore » are shown to provide information on carrier gas instantaneous temperature and flow field stability, both critical issues in RCVD processing.« less
Restraint-induced stress in pregnant mice — Degree of immobilization affects maternal indices of stress and developmental outcome in offspring☆

Abstract Materaal stress on gestational day 8 (GD8) in the CD-1 mouse can induce a syndrome of fetal anomalies, including encephalocele, supernumerary ribs, fused ribs and vertebral anomalies. Two forms of restraint were compared for their ability to induce these defects. The two types of restraint differed in the degree of mobility afforded the dam during confinement, either total restraint in a supine position or a less confining restraint in which restrained dams could move from a supine to a non-supine position, but could not turn from front to back. Dams were exposed to either form of restraint for 12 h on GD8 and their near-term fetuses examined for external and skeletal abnormalities. As both types of restraint precluded normal eating and drinking, an additional control group deprived of food/water was included for evaluation. Cohorts of dams were restrained for 3, 6 or 12 h on GD8 and end points commonly used to gauge the degree of stress evaluated. These included serum corticosterone level and the weight of body, spleen and thymus. Stress-induced analgesia, as measured by the tail-flick procedure, was monitored in these same darns as an additional non-invasive measure of stress. Both types of restraint induced greater and longer-lasting weight loss than food/water deprivation. Both also produced more fetal anomalies than observed in the offspring of caged controls or food/water deprived dams. Both forms of restraint equally elevated serum corticosterone levels above the increase exhibited by the food/water deprived dams. The most pronounced difference between the two types of restraint concerned the degree of analgesia. The type limiting mobility the most, caused much greater analgesia after 6 and 12 h of restraint although the dams subjected to the other form of restraint were significantly more analgesic than the food/water deprived dams by 12 h. Dams restrained in the supine position exhibited slightly greater weight loss, more analgesia and produced significantly more offspring with anomalies.
Synthesis of asynchronous state machines using a local clock

A novel, correct design methodology for asynchronous state-machine controllers is presented. The goal of this work is a design style as close to a synchronous one as possible, but with the advantages of an asynchronous method. The implementations realize asynchronous state-machine specifications using standard combinational logic, flow latches as storage elements, and a locally-generated clocking signal that pulses whenever there is a change in state. This design style allows multiple input changes which can arrive at arbitrary times. The implementations use a minimal or near-minimal number of states. It also allows arbitrary state encoding and flexibility in logic minimization and gate-level realization, so it can take advantage of systematic CAD optimization techniques. >
Dispositional Optimism Protects Older Adults From Stroke The Health and Retirement Study

Background and Purpose—Although higher optimism has been linked to an array of positive health outcomes, the association between optimism and incidence of stroke remains unclear, especially among older adults. We examined whether higher optimism was associated with a lower incidence of stroke. Method—Prospective data from the Health and Retirement Study—a nationally representative panel study of American adults aged >50 years—were used. Analyses were conducted for a 2-year follow-up on the subset of 6044 adults (2542 men, 3502 women) who were stroke-free at baseline. Analyses adjusted for chronic illnesses, self-rated health, and relevant sociodemographic, behavioral, biological, and psychological factors. Results—Higher optimism was associated with a lower risk of stroke. On an optimism measure ranging from 3 to 18, each unit increase in optimism was associated with an age-adjusted OR of 0.90 for stroke (95% CI, 0.84 to 0.97; P<0.01). The effect of optimism remained significant even after fully adjusting...
Complement-Fixation Tests with Cell Lines Derived from Burkitt's Lymphoma and Acute Leukemias

Abstract Armstrong, Donald (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa.), Gertrude Henle, and Werner Henle. Complement-fixation tests with cell lines derived from Burkitt's lymphoma and acute leukemias. J. Bacteriol. 91:1257–1262. 1966.—Cells of various lines isolated from Burkitt's lymphomas and acute leukemias and disintegrated by freezing and thawing or sonic treatment were found to react in complement-fixation tests with a considerable proportion of human sera. At least 107 cells per milliliter were required for antigenic activity. All but one of 13 sera from Burkitt lymphoma patients were positive, with titers ranging from 1:8 to 1:320. About 20% of sera from American children and 60% of sera from adults, regardless of diagnosis, showed titers in a similar range. Sera giving positive tests with one of the neoplastic white cell antigens usually reacted also with many if not all of the others, but rarely with antigens derived from normal peripheral leukocyte cultures and not at all with HeLa or other human nonleukocytic cells. Various observations indicate that the complement-fixation test measures mainly antigens which are different from those detected by immunofluorescence. The nature of the reactions described remains obscure.
A Triple Insider's Take on Arts Therapy, Arts-based Community Development, and Huntington's Disease

本稿では、ハンチントン病を持ち、民族音楽学者の専門職として勤務し、さらに身近なコミュニティの癒しのための音楽・映像・グラフィックアートの創作者としての筆者自身の経験について考える。疾病やトラウマと闘う人が、自身のニーズやゴールを明らかにすること、自身の芸術的資源を発見し価値づけること、そして自分自身や社会のネットワークの芸術性においてニーズと向き合い、その中から創造性を輝かせることによって得るものは非常に大きい。療法士や周囲の人々は、芸術に関する自伝を引き出す、コミュニティの創造性を輝かせる、また多重的芸術の活動家となるといった手法を用いることによって、こうしたプロセスに最もよく寄与することができる。