cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intrinsic disorder controls two functionally distinct dimers of the master transcription factor PU.1

Transcription factors comprise a major reservoir of conformational disorder in the eukaryotic proteome. The hematopoietic master regulator PU.1 presents a well-defined model of the most common configuration of intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) in transcription factors. We report that the structured DNA binding domain (DBD) of PU.1 regulates gene expression via antagonistic dimeric states that are reciprocally controlled by cognate DNA on the one hand and by its proximal anionic IDR on the other. The two conformers are mediated by distinct regions of the DBD without structured contributions from the tethered IDRs. Unlike DNA-bound complexes, the unbound dimer is markedly destabilized. Dimerization without DNA is promoted by progressive phosphomimetic substitutions of IDR residues that are phosphorylated in immune activation and stimulated by anionic crowding agents. These results suggest a previously unidentified, nonstructural role for charged IDRs in conformational control by mitigating electrostatic penalties that would mask the interactions of highly cationic DBDs.
Non-native and Invasive Nylanderia Crazy Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of the World: Integrating Genomics to Enhance Taxonomic Preparedness

Invasive species have devastating economic and ecological impacts worldwide, but proactive monitoring programs are rare on the global stage. By definition, tramp ants are associated with disturbance and human-mediated dispersal, making them especially concerning invasive threats. A proactive—rather than reactive—approach to monitoring for, preventing, and managing invasive species depends on taxonomic preparedness, which enables rapid and accurate identification. Emerging tools and technologies, including genomic barcoding and interactive online keys, can aid in species delimitation and diagnosis. However, resolving tramp species' identities remains the fundamental first step in invasive species management because diagnostic tools cannot be developed and disseminated until species names are stable. Diagnosis of morphologically difficult species requires basic knowledge of species boundaries, biogeography, and phylogenetic relationships. This review comprehensively synthesizes information available for 15 known and five potential tramp ant species in Nylanderia (Emery) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae): a globally distributed genus of over 130 described species, many of which are only diagnosable by subtle morphological characters. Nylanderia records were drawn from published literature, specimen databases, and museum collections to compile known distributions, biology, natural history, and taxonomy for each species. We review existing resources for visualizing known geographic ranges and high-resolution images of ants globally and encourage the use of these types of tools in support of invasive species diagnosis and distribution tracking. Finally, we discuss how taxonomic and life history information can be used synergistically with genomic and digital technology to develop tools for identification of these, and other emerging invasive insect species.
China’s Institutional Statecraft under Xi Jinping: Has the AIIB Served China’s Interest?

This article examines China's efforts to launch new international institutions in order to advance its interests globally. The Asian Infrastructure and Investment Bank (AIIB) presents an opportunit...
Reliability-Based Shipboard Facility Optimization

This paper develops a methodology for reliability-based facility optimization (RBFO), that is, finding an optimum and reliable solution for a facility layout problem given a set of operational and resource constraints. The RBFO problem examined in this paper involves the T-AKE class of ships being designed for the US Navy. The primary goal of the T-AKE ships is to provide efficient underway replenishment (UNREP, or delivery of cargo to a deployed ship) of goods and ammunition to ships in the Navy's fleet. As a supply ship delivering goods to deployed ships, the T-AKE must complete its mission in minimum cycle time with maximum reliability. The reliability constraints are practical cycle time limits based on Navy contractual requirements developed from existing ships. The proposed methodology combines branch and bound-based optimization, cargo simulation, and probabilistic reliability and sensitivity analyses. The methodology is demonstrated for application to a practical shipboard layout with realistic requirements.
Exploiting norms: gender, local elites and farm individualization in Tajikistan

This article advances a straightforward argument: a complete analysis of land reform processes in Central Asia needs to account for gender dynamics. More explicitly, it argues that alongside the fe...
Three Cases of Catastrophe

This chapter puts Trump’s ability to persuade in context, both in general stemming from power dynamics (elite and popular support, respectively) through case studies, akin to Neustadt’s book, Presidential Power. All three are noteworthy, major initiatives that failed to come to fruition, mainly due to Trump’s mishandling and/or insensitivity to rules of effective bargaining. They include: the Republican-led health care plan to repeal Obamacare in 2017; the US government shutdown and fight over Trump’s “wall” in December 2018–January 2019; and Trump’s failed second summit with Kim Jong Un and North Korean nuclear diplomacy in 2019.
Food-restricted alcohol consumption: relation to psychopathology in college students

Food-restricted alcohol consumption (FRAC) is a growing concern among college students. We investigated demographic and lifestyle characteristics and psychiatric symptoms associated with FRAC. Part...
Expert Evidence in the United States

This short chapter, written for an international audience, addresses the handling of expert testimony in United States, highlighting the influence of America’s strong commitment to a party-driven system of adjudication. Trial lawyers in the United States make eager use of experts as sources of evidence, but American lawyers as well as American judges remain deeply uneasy with the idea that the adjudication system itself should be placed under the control of experts — either judicial experts, conducting the kind of examinations common in the inquisitorial legal tradition, or bureaucratic experts, exercising professional oversight over laboratories providing assistance to criminal investigators. In this respect, the handling of expert evidence in the United States reflects a core component of American legal culture: rejection of the inquisitorial model of adjudication.
How Experts React: The World Health Organization’s Appraisal of COVID-19 via Communication Patterns

How do COVID-19 experts psychologically manage the pandemic and its effects? Using a full year of press briefings (January 2020–January 2021) from the World Health Organization (N = 126), this pape...
Mild upgrading of biomass pyrolysis vapors via ex-situ catalytic pyrolysis over an iron-montmorillonite catalyst

Abstract Pyrolysis vapor upgrading can improve the stability of pyrolysis liquids to facilitate storage, transport, and drop in use as fuels and chemical feedstocks in existing refining infrastructure. This study investigates a low cost iron based catalyst for mild in-situ upgrading of fast pyrolysis vapors to increase the stability of pyrolysis liquid. Iron-doped montmorillonite K10 catalysts were characterized by ICP-OES, BET porosimetry, XRD, XPS, and NH3-TPD. The effect of three upgrading process parameters are evaluated by Box-Behnken experimental design using a fixed catalyst bed. Predictive model equations are developed based on response surface methodology to describe the effect of iron loading, catalyst to biomass ratio, and catalyst bed temperature on yields of pyrolysis liquids, non-condensable gas, and coke on the catalyst. Compared to non-catalytic pyrolysis, pyrolysis vapor upgrading over iron catalyst reduce pyrolysis liquid yields and increase gas yields as pyrolysis vapors are catalytically cracked into lighter molecules. Liquid yield decreases with C:B ratio while gas yields increase. By increasing Fe loading from 0% to 10%, catalyst coking decreases from 11.7% to 3.5% yield. Iron loading of 10% is the least susceptible to coking, but results in greater amounts of polyaromatics in the pyrolysis liquid product. According to GCMS analysis of the pyrolysis liquids, upgraded pyrolysis liquids have lower concentrations of unstable carboxylic acids and aldehydes. In addition, formation of phenols shift towards a greater fraction of alkyl phenols and lower fraction of methoxy phenols leading to a more stable liquid product as a result of upgrading. Overall, iron-doped montmorillonite catalyst is demonstrated to be a viable, low cost catalyst for mild upgrading of fast pyrolysis vapors.
Norovirus transmission mitigation strategies during simulated produce harvest and packing.

Abstract In the agricultural setting, core global food safety elements, such as hand hygiene and worker furlough, should reduce the risk of norovirus contamination on fresh produce. However, the effect of these practices has not been characterized. Using a quantitative microbial risk model, we evaluated the individual and combined effect of farm-based hand hygiene and worker furlough practices on the maximum risk of norovirus infection from three produce commodities (open leaf lettuce, vine tomatoes, and raspberries). Specifically, we tested two scenarios where a harvester's and packer's norovirus infection status was: 1) assumed positive; or 2) assigned based on community norovirus prevalence estimates. In the first scenario with a norovirus-positive harvester and packer, none of the individual interventions modeled reduced produce contamination to below the norovirus infectious dose. However, combined interventions, particularly high handwashing compliance (100%) and efficacy (6 log10 virus removal achieved using soap and water for 30 s), reduced produce contamination to When community-based norovirus prevalence estimates were applied to the harvester and packer, the single interventions of 100% handwashing with 3 log10 virus removal (average 0.02 infection risk per consumption event) or furlough of the packer (average 0.03 infection risk per consumption event) reduced maximum infection risk to below the 0.032 threshold for all commodities. Bundled interventions (worker furlough, 100% glove compliance, and 100% handwashing with 1-log10 virus reduction) resulted in a maximum risk of 0.02 per consumption event across all commodities. These results advance the evidence-base for global produce safety standards as effective norovirus contamination and risk mitigation strategies.
Causal analyses of existing databases: no power calculations required

Observational databases are often used to study causal questions. Before being granted access to data or funding, researchers may need to prove that "the statistical power of their analysis will be high." Analyses expected to have low power, and hence result in imprecise estimates, will not be approved. This restrictive attitude towards observational analyses is misguided. A key misunderstanding is the belief that the goal of a causal analysis is to "detect" an effect. Causal effects are not binary signals that are either detected or undetected; causal effects are numerical quantities that need to be estimated. Because the goal is to quantify the effect as unbiasedly and precisely as possible, the solution to observational analyses with imprecise effect estimates is not avoiding observational analyses with imprecise estimates, but rather encouraging the conduct of many observational analyses. It is preferable to have multiple studies with imprecise estimates than having no study at all. After several studies become available, we will meta-analyze them and provide a more precise pooled effect estimate. Therefore, the justification to withhold an observational analysis of preexisting data cannot be that our estimates will be imprecise. Ethical arguments for power calculations before conducting a randomized trial which place individuals at risk are not transferable to observational analyses of existing databases. If a causal question is important, analyze your data, publish your estimates, encourage others to do the same, and then meta-analyze. The alternative is an unanswered question.
Canada (Chapter 4 of 'Forging Accounting Principles in Five Countries: A History and an Analysis of Trends')

This is the second of five chapters from the book 'Forging Accounting Principles in Five Countries: A History and an Analysis of Trends'.You can view the foreword and preface of the book, table of contents, and the other chapters:Foreword/Preface/Table of Contents:http://ssrn.com/abstract=2045708 Chapter 1 (Great Britain):http://ssrn.com/abstract=2045714Chapter 3 (United States):http://ssrn.com/abstract=2046087Chapter 4 (Canada):http://ssrn.com/abstract=2046062Chapter 5 (A Critical Review of the Evolving Trends):http://ssrn.com/abstract=2046066
A Semantic Theory of “NP-Movement” Dependencies

The various complex dependencies found in English sentences containing infinitival complements have provided some of the most compelling arguments for transformational grammar (TG) (for a survey of such arguments, see Postal (1974), Soames and Perlmutter (1979)). As a consequence, these dependencies also provide a testing ground for current alternatives to TG. Few linguists would take seriously a theory of grammar which did not address the fundamental problems of English grammar that were dealt with within the framework of “standard” transformational grammar (STG) (Chomsky (1965), Rosenbaum (1967)) by such rules as There-Insertion, It-Extraposition, Passive, Subject-Subject Raising, and Subject-Object Raising.1
Fibroblast growth factor and cyclic AMP (cAMP) synergistically activate gene expression at a cAMP response element.

Abstract Growth factors and cyclic AMP (cAMP) are known to activate distinct intracellular signaling pathways. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) activates ras-dependent kinase cascades, resulting in the activation of MAP kinases, whereas cAMP activates protein kinase A. In this study, we report that growth factors and cAMP act synergistically to stimulate proenkephalin gene expression. Positive synergy between growth factor- and cAMP-activated signaling pathways on gene expression has not been previously reported, and we suggest that these synergistic interactions represent a useful model for analyzing interactions between these pathways. Transfection and mutational studies indicate that both FGF-dependent gene activation and cAMP-dependent gene activation require cAMP response element 2 (CRE-2), a previously characterized cAMP-dependent regulatory element. Furthermore, multiple copies of this element are sufficient to confer FGF regulation upon a minimal promoter, indicating that FGF and cAMP signaling converge upon transcription factors acting at CRE-2. Among many different ATF/AP-1 factors tested, two factors, ATF-3 and c-Jun, stimulate proenkephalin transcription in an FGF- or Ras-dependent fashion. Finally, we show that ATF-3 and c-Jun form heterodimeric complexes in SK-N-MC cells and that the levels of both proteins are increased in response to FGF but not cAMP. Together, these results indicate that growth factor- and cAMP-dependent signaling pathways converge at CRE-2 to synergistically stimulate gene expression and that ATF-3 and c-Jun regulate proenkephalin transcription in response to both growth factor- and cAMP-dependent intracellular signaling pathways.
Maintaining a sparse inverse in the simplex method

Improved methods are discussed for handling sparse matrices in practical linear programming. An analytical comparison is made of four methods for updating the inverse in the iterations following a reinversion. Of these, one technique using the elimination form of inverse is selected for some computational experiments and its advantages in terms of speed and sparseness demonstrated.
Recommendations for scale-up of community-based misoprostol distribution programs.

Community-based distribution of misoprostol for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in resource-poor settings has been shown to be safe and effective. However, global recommendations for prenatal distribution and monitoring within a community setting are not yet available. In order to successfully translate misoprostol and PPH research into policy and practice, several critical points must be considered. A focus on engaging the community, emphasizing the safe nature of community-based misoprostol distribution, supply chain management, effective distribution, coverage, and monitoring plans are essential elements to community-based misoprostol program introduction, expansion, or scale-up.
Poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) copolymer matrix for delivery of chlorhexidine and acyclovir drugs for use in the oral environment: Effect of drug combination, copolymer composition and coating on the drug release rate

Abstract Objectives This study utilizes a bio-compatible ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer to deliver drugs at therapeutic levels over extended periods of time. The release rate of an anti-fungal and an anti-microbial drug namely acyclovir (ACY) and chlorhexidine diacetate (CDA) from EVA was investigated individually and as a mixture. The effect of drug combination, the composition of the copolymer and the coating of the matrix with a different polymer on the rate of drug release are presented. Method Polymer casting solutions were prepared by homogeneously dissolving EVA copolymer and the drugs in the ratio (40:1) in dichloromethane. The drugs ACY and CDA were used individually as well as in three different weight ratios maintaining the total drug concentration in the polymer at 2.5%. Different concentrations of vinyl acetate (VA) 28, 32 and 40% in the EVA matrix were used to study the release of either ACY or CDA alone while 40% VA was used for the release study of the individual drug as well as their mixtures. Thin square films of 3 cm × 3 cm with a thickness of 0.7 mm were cut from the dry sheet obtained by solvent evaporation. Coated films were prepared by dipping ACY and CDA drug-loaded EVA films (VA 40%) into EVA copolymer of VA 32% and then dried. All of the drug-loaded samples were extracted at 37 °C in 10 ml distilled water that was replaced daily. The rate of individual drug release was measured by UV-spectrophotometer while the mixtures of drugs were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results The release rate of ACY is higher than that of CDA both individually and in the ACY/CDA 50/50 mixture. In the other mixtures, the release of the drug is proportional to its concentration in the mixture. Total release of ACY is higher than CDA in most compositions. The effect of increasing the vinyl acetate content of the EVA matrix increased the drug release rate ( p = 0.02) while coating of films resulted in a decrease of the release rate of the drugs. Significance Measurements of the in vitro rate of drug release showed that there was a sustained release of drug at an almost constant concentration over extended period of time, thus providing a basis for oral treatment modality. We show that it is possible to alter the rate of drug release in the EVA matrix to a desired value by: (1) changing the composition of the EVA copolymer, (2) altering the mixtures of drugs and (3) coating the matrix with additional polymer. The use of mixtures of drugs that can enhance or decrease the rate of drug release may prove more effective in treating persistent oral infections in immunocompromised patients.
S-Adenosylmethionine radical enzymes

The role of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) as a precursor to organic radicals, generated by one-electron reduction of SAM and subsequent fission to form 5'-deoxyadenosyl radical and methionine, has been known for some time. Only recently, however, has it become apparent how widespread such enzymes are, and what a wide range of chemical reactions they catalyze. In the last few years several new SAM radical enzymes have been identified. Spectroscopic and kinetic investigations have begun to uncover the mechanism by which an iron sulfur cluster unique to these enzymes reduces SAM to generate adenosyl radical. Most recently, the first X-ray structures of SAM radical enzymes, coproporphyrinogen-III oxidase, and biotin synthase have been solved, providing a structural framework within which to interpret mechanistic studies.
Invisible Workers: African Women and the Problem of the Self- Employed in Labour History

Applying Marxist categories to Africa has always posed problems most particularly when dealing with the self-employed. Most sub-Saharan countries have populations who are mostly self-employed in various capacities, and yet the focus of most African labor history has been on wage earners, following the traditional Marxist perspective regarding the emergence of a proletariat. Not coincidentally, such a focus has also eliminated from consideration the class position of most women and most agricultural laborers. Petty commodity production tends to be overlooked or regarded as transient, and yet it has been growing at a rapid rate. This paper attempts a theoretical reformulation to modify Marxist theory into a Marxian approach which accounts for the impact of the world capitalist economy on the masses of the African population. It is heavily influenced by socialist feminist analyses which view the household as a power structure allocating labor and resources, and by studies of small African entepreneurs and the social impact of development projects.
PULMONARY TUMOR EMBOLI

A syndrome is described in which severe, clinically unexplained dyspnea is found at autopsy to be caused by multiple microscopic tumor emboli. Such a situation was found in 8 of 16 cases of multiple microscopic tumor emboli in the pulmonary arteries without significant lymphatic or parenchymal involvement of the lungs. The origins of tumor emboli included carcinomas of the prostate, breast, stomach, pancreas, and liver. In the 8 cases that presented with unexplained dyspnea, initial physical, roentgenographic, and electro-cardiographic examinations were not diagnostic. Clinical or morphological evidence of cor pulmonale was present in only 5 of these 8 cases. The tumor emboli did not invade the walls of pulmonary vessels but were frequently associated with thrombi. Recognition of this clinicopathologic entity becomes important as progress is made in cancer therapy.
Detailed heat transfer distributions in two-pass square channels with rib turbulators and bleed holes

Abstract Detailed heat transfer coefficient distributions are presented for a two-pass square channel with a 180° turn. One wall of the channel has periodically placed rib turbulators and bleed holes. Four different configurations of 90° parallel, 60° parallel, 60° V ribs, and 60° inverted V ribs are studied in conjunction with the effect of bleed holes on the same wall. The surface is coated with a thin layer of thermochromic liquid crystals and a transient test is run to obtain the detailed heat transfer distributions. Detailed distributions show distinctive peaks in heat transfer levels around bleed holes and on rib turbulator tips. The 60° parallel, 60° V, and 60° inverted V ribbed channels produce similar levels of heat transfer enhancement in the first pass. However, the 60° inverted V ribbed channel produces higher enhancement in the second pass. Regional-averaged heat transfer results indicate that a surface with bleed holes provides similar heat transfer enhancement as that for a surface without bleed holes although 20–25% of the inlet mass flow exits through the bleed holes.
Localized decrease in serotonin transporter-immunoreactive axons in the prefrontal cortex of depressed subjects committing suicide

A variety of postmortem brain studies and clinical investigations have provided evidence that reduced serotonin neurotransmission is associated with suicidal behavior and depression, and several serotonergic parameters have been found to be altered in the prefrontal cortex of suicide victims. However, the integrity of the serotonin innervation of the prefrontal cortex in mood disorders has not been directly investigated. The present study used immunocytochemical methods and an antibody against the serotonin transporter to examine the relative density of serotonin axons in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of suicide victims with a diagnosis of major depression. The mean total length of serotonin transporter-immunoreactive axons per unit area was unchanged in layers 2 and 4 of area 46 in the depressed suicide subjects compared to controls, but was significantly (P < 0.01) decreased by 24% in layer 6 in the depressed suicide group. The total length of serotonin transporter-positive axons in layer 6 was reduced in eight of the 12 depressed suicide subjects compared to their matched control subjects. These findings reveal that depressed subjects who have committed suicide exhibit a lamina-specific reduction in a marker of serotonin axons in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex that may reflect an alteration in cortical serotonin neurotransmission.
Effect of thrombin on the molecular weights of N-terminal fragments of human fibrinogen☆

Abstract Cyanogen bromide cleaves the human fibrinogen molecule to produce several fragments, one of which consists of amino terminal components of each of the three chains, α(“A”), β(B) and γ, which comprise the “N-terminal disulfide knot of fibrinogen”. Sedimentation equilibrium experiments indicate that it is a dimer which can be dissociated into monomeric chain components by reduction and alkylation of cystine residues. It has further been proven that the N-terminal disulfide knot and its α(“A”) and β(B) monomeric units as well retain their susceptibility to thrombin cleavage.
Identification of Bearing and Gear Tooth Damage in a Transmission System

The main objective of this article is to identify individual and combined damages in gear teeth and rolling element bearings based on vibration signatures. In this study, experimental vibration signals generated from a 75-HP test facility are used for the comparative studies. Vibration signatures from cases with no gear tooth or rolling element bearing damage (baseline healthy machine), preset gear tooth damage only, preset rolling element bearing damage only, and preset damages in both gear tooth and rolling element bearing system are examined. The vibration signatures obtained are compared in the original time domain, the frequency domain using the fast Fourier transform (FFT), the joint time-frequency domain using the Wigner-Ville distribution (WVD), and the statistical representations of the chaotic vibrations using the modified Poincare maps. Based on the results of this comparative study, special features in the vibration signatures for each type of damage are identified and categorized. Using the c...
The Endoplasmic Reticulum Chaperone GRP170: From Immunobiology to Cancer Therapeutics.

Glucose-regulated protein 170 (GRP170) is the largest member of GRP family that resides in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). As a component of the ER chaperone network, GRP170 assists in protein folding, assembly, and transportation of secretory or transmembrane proteins. The well documented cytoprotective activity of intracellular GRP170 due to its intrinsic chaperoning property has been shown to provide a survival benefit in cancer cells during tumor progression or metastasis. Accumulating evidence shows that extracellular GRP170 displays a superior capacity in delivering tumor antigens to specialized antigen-presenting cells for cross-presentation, resulting in generation of an antitumor immune response dependent on cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. This unique feature of GRP170 provides a molecular basis for using GRP170 as an immunostimulatory adjuvant to develop a recombinant vaccine for therapeutic immunization against cancers. This review summarizes the latest findings in understanding the biological effects of GRP170 on cell functions and tumor progression. The immunomodulating activities of GRP170 during interactions with the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system as well as its therapeutic applications in cancer immunotherapy will be discussed.
A Middle School Intervention to Improve Health Behaviors and Reduce Cardiac Risk Factors

Abstract Objective This study aimed to measure the impact of a school-based multidisciplinary intervention program on risk factors for atherosclerosis in sixth-grade middle school students. We also measured health behaviors before and after the intervention using a validated questionnaire. Methods A prospective study was performed in which students served as historical controls. Sixth-grade students from 23 middle schools in 12 cities with varying populations were exposed to a program promoting healthful activity and nutrition habits through educational and environmental change. Along with a modified School-Based Nutrition Monitoring behavioral questionnaire, physiologic risk factors were studied, including body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, cholesterol panel, and random blood glucose, which were measured before the 10-week program and again 1 to 3 months after program completion. Results Of 4021 sixth graders (male, 49%) at 23 middle schools completing a before and after behavioral survey, 2118 students, aged 11.56 ± 0.47 years, consented to participate in the screening. The mean total cholesterol value decreased from 161.64 ± 28.99 mg/dL to 154.77 ± 27.26 mg/dL ( P P P P P P P Conclusions Project Healthy Schools, a middle school intervention to improve childhood cardiovascular risk factors, is feasible and seems to be effective. The results showed significant improvements in risk factors associated with early atherosclerosis among sixth-grade students, including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Further study with a larger group of students and a longer follow-up period would be valuable.
Growth, development and yield responses of pinto beans and soybeans to hydrogen ion concentrations of simulated acidic rain

Abstract Greenhouse experiments were performed to determine changes in seed yield of soybeans (Glycine max L.) and pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), exposed to simulated rain of 2, 398, 794, 1259, 1995 and 3162 μeq 1−1 H+ (pH 5.7, 3.1, 2.9, 2.7 and 2.5, respectively). Simulated acidic rain of 794 μeq l−1 H+ (pH 3.1) and above decreased the dry mass of seeds, leaves, and stems of pinto beans compared with plants exposed to rain of 2 μeq 1−1 H+. On a percentage mass basis the decrease in seed yield was comparable to reductions in biomass of leaves and stems. The decrease in yield of pinto beans by simulated acidic rain was attributed to a decrease in the number of seeds per pod. In soybeans, simulated acidic rain of 794 and 3162 μeq l−1 H+ (pH 3.1 and 2.5, respectively) decreased the dry mass of both stems and leaves. However an increase in seed yield occurred when plants were exposed to rain of 794 μeq l−1 H+ (pH 3.1) which resulted from ȧ larger dry mass per seed. In general, simulated acidic rain decreased leaf enlargement of the first-produced leaves of pinto beans but had no effect on enlargement of leaves produced later in development. In soybeans, a decrease in leaf enlargement occurred in leaves produced later in development than in the first-produced leaves. Rain acidity response functions were established between the responses of various plant parameters and the hydrogen ion concentration of the simulated rainfalls. These rain acidity response functions are used to better understand (1) the sensitivity of various processes to simulated acidic rain and (2) how the differences in sensitivity of these various processes affect plant productivity.
Computer-Using Teachers in a New Decade

Abstract Has the impact of computer technology in education altered the education teachers need in order to be computer-using teachers? Are teachers being prepared for the decade of the ′90s using the technology of the ′80s to meet the goals/needs of the ′80s? The Northwest Council for Computer Education and Oregon State University funded a project to develop guideline competencies for teacher preparation programs. Separate sets of competencies were developed for elementary, middle school and high school teachers, for elementary, middle school and high school computer teachers and for elementary, middle school and high school curriculum coordinators. A comparison of these competencies with a similar set developed in 1983 suggests recommendations for changes in preservice and inservice teacher preparation programs. More importantly, the competencies call for major revisions in the curriculum and for teachers who can develop and teach the revised curriculum utilizing computer technology.
Synthesis of 4-(O-Arylsulfonyl)quinoline-5,8-quinones

Abstract Synthesis of a series of 4-(O-arylsulfonyl)quinoline-5,8-quinones 9 is described. This was accomplished by the direct sulfonylation of the readily available quinolinone 7 by a variety of arylsulfonyl chlorides followed by oxidation of the resulting 5,8-dimethoxyquinolines 8 with ceric ammonium nitrate.
A normal integral basis Theorem

Let K be a number field of class number one and let L be a tame cyclic extension of K of prime power degree. Put G = G(L/K) and pm = #G, where p is a prime number. Let K’ be a finite extension of K, containing the pm th roots of unity, which is disjoint from L over K and such that the . . . discrtmmants D,,, and D,,, are relatively prime. Put L’ = K’L and denote by A, A’, B, B’ the rings of integers in K, K’, L, L’, respectively. We will identify G with G(L’/K’) under the canonical isomorphism. The following result will be proved in this paper:
Neuronuclear imaging in the evaluation of dementia and mild decline in cognition

Recently, the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association identified specific structural and functional neuroimaging findings as valuable markers of biological processes occurring in the human brain, especially processes that herald impending dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease (AD) in its prodromal form. In particular, the imaging modalities of magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography (PET) were singled out, along with certain biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid, to serve this purpose. We review the clinical tests available for neuropsychologic evaluation and in cases when the differential diagnosis for the causes of cognitive impairment is difficult to make, we consider biomarkers, beginning with cerebrospinal fluid, for assessment of cognitive decline. For more direct information on dementia-related pathologic changes in brain tissue, structural features observed in magnetic resonance imaging scans are regarded. We next discuss the use of single-photon emission computed tomography for evaluating functional changes. Then, pertinent to the recent National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association's consensus statement on the diagnosis of prodromal AD, we focus on assessing the cerebral metabolic changes associated with neurodegenerative diseases that are identified with fluorodeoxyglucose PET, as well as consider the most appropriate roles for amyloid imaging based on recent studies examining the use of PET with tracers having higher retention in brain tissue–harboring plaques composed of insoluble beta-amyloid. We also consider the leading causes for the current underuse of neuronuclear imaging in evaluating patients with cognitive problems, along with strategies for combating them. Finally, we suggest an overall diagnostic algorithm to guide optimal use of all the neuroimaging tools in assessing patients with cognitive decline.
Cryptosporidia on dairy farms and the role these farms may have in contaminating surface water supplies in the northeastern United States.

Abstract The prevalence and risk factors for shedding of cryptosporidia by dairy cattle and calves and the prevalence and risk factors for cryptosporidia in surface waters associated with dairy farms were determined for a well-defined watershed in the northeastern United States. Eleven dairy farms were enrolled in the study and subjected to monthly sampling over a 6-month period. Animal-, water-, and manure-management practices were determined by survey and fecal, on-farm water, and stream samples were obtained monthly and evaluated for the presence of cryptosporidia. Ninety-one percent of the dairy farms in our study had Cryptosporidium on their premises. Fifteen percent of the sampled calves 0–3 weeks of age were shedding cryptosporidia. The risk factors for calves shedding cryptosporidia were contact between calves and frequent bedding changes. The probability of shedding cryptosporidia decreased with age. Nine percent of farm-associated stream samples were cryptosporidia-positive. The single risk factor for detecting cryptosporidia in surface water was increasing frequency of spreading of manure on fields. The probability of detecting cryptosporidia in streams decreased as 5-day cumulative precipitation increased. There were no animal-associated or barnyard-management features associated with detecting cryptosporidia in farm-impacted streams.
Crystal-mush compaction in the Cohassett flood-basalt flow, Hanford, Washington

Abstract The 40-m-thick central part of the Cohassett flow, which was probably emplaced by inflation of an earlier more Ti-rich flow, exhibits textural evidence of crystal-mush compaction during solidification. Although most of the crystallization started in the roof zone as water circulated through fractures in the crust, plumes of dense crystal mush must have dripped from the roof to the floor of the sheet, thus displacing upward the colonnade/entablature boundary. The mush initially consisted of loosely stacked plagioclase crystals and liquid surrounding rapidly grown pyroxene oikocrysts containing radial chadacrysts of plagioclase. Upon compaction in the floor zone, the liquid between the loosely stacked plagioclase crystals was expelled as the crystals packed tightly together to form sub-parallel grains wrapped around the pyroxene oikocrysts, which recrystallized into granular aggregates of augite and pigeonite. Stacks of sinking plagioclase crystals and rising liquid accumulated on the upper and lower sides, respectively, of horizontal plagioclase phenocrysts. This asymmetric texture clearly indicates the relative motion of solids and liquid. The degree of compaction, as determined from variations in the amount of interstitial liquid and quantitative measures of textural anisotropy, accounts for the chemical variation through the central part of the flow, with compatible elements being concentrated in the lower part of the flow and incompatible elements concentrated in the upper part. Modeling of the compaction process using the IRIDIUM melt infiltration and reaction program of [Boudreau, A., 2003. IRIDIUM: a program to model reaction of silicate liquid infiltrating a porous solid assemblage. Computers and Geosciences 29, 423–429] shows that the observed chemical and compaction/dilation profiles are to be expected in a 40-m-thick sheet of basaltic magma solidifying on the Earth's surface. Compaction of crystal mush should be even more likely in slowly cooled intrusive bodies.
Indefinite elliptic problem preconditioning

Based on investigating the eigenvalue distribution of the preconditioned matrices that arise in the finite-element discretization of indefinite elliptic problems with preconditioning matrices, constructed on the basis of the principal coercive part of the considered elliptic problems, it is proved that the Krylov subspace CG-type methods like MINRES converge with a rate of convergence determined only by the stability properties of the discrete problem in terms of a priori estimates and the accuracy of the preconditioning matrix with respect to the principal coercive part of the considered finite-element stiffness matrix. This is also demonstrated by numerical experiments. The method is of practical interest if there are only a few negative eigenvalues.
SYNTHESIS OF PROTECTED SECRETIN16–27 ON A MERRIFIELD RESIN

The partially protected dodecapeptide to secretin, H - Ser(Bzl) - Ala - Arg(Tos) - Leu - Gln - Arg(Tos) - Leu - Leu - Gln - Gly - Leu - Val - NH2 (protected secretin16–27) was prepared using a standard Merrifield resin and solid phase synthesis methods. For comparative purposes the unprotected peptide also was prepared on a benzhydrylamine resin. Contrary to previous reports, the valine C-terminal peptide can be cleaved from the resin and the amide obtained in high yield. A variety of conditions were examined to accomplish the cleavage of the peptide from the resin in its carboxamide terminal form. The best conditions found were transesterification followed by ammonolysis in a mixed solvent system. A thin-layer chromatography system which clearly separates the methyl ester and carboxamide terminal secretin16–27 was developed.
Intraparenchymal and intratumoral interstitial infusion of anti-glioma monoclonal antibody 8H9.

Objective Interstitial infusion, a form of local delivery that bypasses the blood-brain barrier, has been shown to afford high regional concentrations of a therapeutic molecule while avoiding systemic exposure. The distribution of monoclonal antibodies administered via interstitial infusion has not been characterized, and this is salient in light of the potential sequestration by epitopes expressed by targeted tissue. Interstitial delivery of murine immunoglobulin G1 monoclonal antibody (MAb) 8H9 was investigated in a rodent model for the potential treatment of infiltrative gliomas. Methods MAb 8H9 was infused in varying concentrations and volumes into previously untreated animals and into an immunoreactive U87 xenograft to evaluate distributive potential. Previously untreated animals and athymic rats bearing U87 xenografts underwent variable infusions into the striatum or grafted tumor, respectively. Animals were sacrificed at multiple time points, and the volume of 8H9 distribution was determined using a new semiautomated technique. Results Increasing both the volume and dose of 8H9 infusion increased the volume of distribution. Distribution was significantly greater at 24 hours after infusion than at 1 hour. Interstitial infusion of MAb 8H9 resulted in a positive relationship between the volume of distribution and either the infusion volume or infusion dose. No significant difference in the volume of distribution was seen between antibodies in naive striatum and U87 xenografts. Antibody distribution was effectively augmented by convection and diffusion after delivery. Conclusion Finally, intratumoral interstitial infusion of a reactive MAb has been performed similarly to delivery to a normal brain. This finding is encouraging from a therapeutic standpoint, given the clinical need to affect large domains of these infiltrative tumors.
Cross-section measurements of nuclides formed by the reaction of 0. 20 -- 6. 0 GeV protons with /sup 197/Au

Cross sections of a number of radioactive products formed by the reaction of protons with /sup 197/Au have been measured at bombarding energies of 0.20, 0.49, 1.0, 3.0, and 6.0 GeV. The excitation functions for specific nuclides exhibit several different types of behavior which are characteristic of the reaction mechanisms involved. Spallation products have excitation functions which rise rapidly above an energetic threshold, go through a maximum, and then decrease again, finally approaching a constant cross section at the highest energies. The excitation functions of light nuclides do not exhibit such a peak, but increase monotonically to the asymptotic high-energy limit. Mass-yield distributions are derived from the data, and are compared with the results of intranuclear cascade-evaporation calculations. Comparison of the mass-yield distribution for protons with those for incident pions shows that the rest energy of the pion is as effective in transferring excitation energy to the target as the same amount of kinetic energy.
Manganese carbonyl complexes of 2,5-dimethylbismolyl. The crystal and molecular structure of (η1-2,5-dimethylbismolyl) manganese pentacarbonyl

Abstract (η-1-2,5-Dimethylbismolyl)manganese pentacarbonyl (8) has been obtained from the reaction of 1-phenyl-2,5-dimethylbismole with lithium followed by BrMn(CO)5. Heating 8 to its melting point causes the loss of CO to produce (η5-2,5-dimethylbismolyl)manganese tricarbonyl. Compound 8 crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system, space group P 21 (No. 4) with a = 6.838(2) A, b = 6.424(1) A, c = 15.787(4) A, β = 95.68(2)° V= 6901.(2) A3 and Z = 2. A full structure has been determined and is compared with those of analogous compounds.
Increased food intake and CCK receptor antagonists: beyond abdominal vagal afferents

the identifying biological actions of CCK, stimulation of gall bladder contraction ([18][1]) and pancreatic enzyme secretion ([15][2]), were first detected in extracts of small intestinal mucosa more than 75 years ago. Subsequently, the peptide responsible for these actions was isolated and
GaN-Based Integrated Lateral Thermoelectric Device for Micro-Power Generation

Lateral thermoelectric devices were fabricated using c-plane GaN thin films grown on sapphire by MOCVD. The device design is appropriate for on-chip integration for power generation in the 1 V and tens of µA range. The fabricated devices were measured to have a maximum open circuit voltage of 0.3 V with a maximum output power of 2.1 µW (=0.15 V×14 µA) at a relatively small temperature difference (ΔT) of 30 K and an average temperature (Tavg) of 508 K. In addition, the suitability of GaN for high temperature thermoelectric applications was confirmed by measurements at 825 K.
Influence of dietary manganese and vitamin e on adriamycin toxicity in mice

Adriamycin (ADR) administration can result in cardiac toxicity. One suggested mechanism of damage is through increased lipid peroxidation. We have evaluated the biochemical response of mice to ADR treatment when fed Mn-sufficient, vitamin E-sufficient (+Mn, +E); Mn-sufficient, low vitamin-E (+Mn, -E); Mn-deficient, vitamin E-sufficient (-Mn, +E); or Mn-deficient, low vitamin-E (-Mn, -E) diets. Mice were injected i.p. with ADR (10 mg/kg bw) or saline (0.9% w/v). ADR injection resulted in a reduction of food intake by 2 days postinjection; by 5 days postinjection ADR-treated mice lost an average of 6.0 g. Heart Mn superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of -Mn mice was 50% that of +Mn mice; ADR did not affect MnSOD activity. Lipid peroxidation was highest in the -Mn, -E mice, being 2-fold higher than that observed in +Mn, +E mice. ADR injection did not affect lipid peroxidation. An interaction between Fe and ADR treatment was apparent; ADR injected -Mn, -E mice had liver Fe concentrations which were twice that of the saline injected mice fed -Mn, -E diets. These data show that the antioxidant status of an animal may influence ADR toxicity.
Perceived Affiliation with Family Member Roles: Validity and Reliability of Scores on the Children’s Role Inventory

The present study evaluated the reliability and construct validity of scores from the Children’s Role Inventory. The measure specifies four roles fulfilled by children: hero, lost child, mascot, and scapegoat. Theory and some research also suggest that adults continue to interact based on role assignments adopted in childhood. Both confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses and analyses of variance were conducted for a sample of 499 participants.
To sleep: perchance to learn

Not only can the sleeping brain perceive sensory information, it can learn from this information, leading to changed behaviors the next day: it can come to associate a sound with a pleasant or unpleasant odor and react, both while still asleep and after waking, with a deeper or shallower breath. But classic ‘sleep learning’ remains just a dream.