cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TAMING PARENT-REARED ORANGE-WINGED AMAZON PARROTS BY NEONATAL HANDLING

Tameness in parrots is often achieved by artificial rearing, in which chicks are typically removed from parents, fed a liquified or semi-liquified diet by oral gavage and maintained in thermally controlled brooders until they are grown. As an alternate means of rearing birds, we tested whether occasional neonatal human handling of parent-reared chicks might produce tameness while reducing the risk of sexual imprinting on humans. Orange-winged Amazon chicks (Amazona amazonica) were incubated and hatched by wild-caught parents, then were temporarily removed from the nest box, and handled at various times during the nestling period. In Trial 1, handled chicks (n = 6) were handled from days 10 to 39 of age for 10–20 min/day and from 40 days to fledging (days 56–/57) for 20–30 min/day. Nonhandled chicks (n = 4) were handled only to record body weight and provide medication, as needed. After fledging, chicks were evaluated for tameness, e.g., by their willingness to approach the handler, perch on a finger, be touched on the head, and by their respiratory rate in the presence of the handler. Handled birds differed significantly in all indices of tameness. In Trial 2, handled chicks were handled for 30 min, four times/week either from days 15 to 36 (n = 3) or 35 to 56 (n = 3); results were similar to Trial 1. Chicks handled later tended to be slightly tamer than those handled earlier. In both trials, the amount of time that handled chicks were in contact with humans was less than 2% of the time they spent with conspecifics. It is therefore unlikely that these chicks imprinted either filially or sexually on humans, although this has not been experimentally tested. While continued handling is likely necessary to maintain tameness, these results support the concept that neonatal handling of parent-raised parrots provides a low-labor and low-technology alternative to artificial rearing as a means of initially taming birds, thereby improving their adaptation to life in captivity. Zoo Biol 18:177–187, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The parametric path method: an alternative to Fair–Taylor and L–B–J for solving perfect foresight models

Abstract The parametric path method applies projection methods to compute the equilibrium time path of economic variables in infinite-horizon dynamic models. We exploit the special structure of equilibrium paths common in such models to construct a low-dimensional set of candidate solutions, and then use efficient integration and equation solution methods to find an approximate solution. Simple illustrative examples show that the parametric path method can find excellent approximations with little computational cost.
Driving Profitability by Encouraging Customer Referrals: Who, When, and How

Abstract Many firms are now using referral marketing campaigns to harness the power of word of mouth and to increase referrals to acquire new customers. Prior research has identified a method of computing the value of referrals using only a customer's actual past referral behavior to compute customer referral value (CRV). In this article, the authors develop and test a new four-step approach to compute CRV. In addition, they determine the behavioral drivers of CRV and then identify the most effective methods of targeting the most promising customers on the basis of their customer lifetime value (CLV) and CRV scores. The authors illustrate and test this approach through four separate field experiments with firms from two industries: financial services and retailing. They find that to maximize profitability, it is critical to manage customers in terms of both their CLV and CRV scores and that understanding the behavioral drivers of CRV can help managers better target the most profitable customers with their...
Essential Muscle Pathology for the Rheumatologist

This review introduces/refreshes some basic histopathologic methods and findings of skeletal muscle biopsies with emphasis on those diseases commonly encountered in a rheumatologist's practice. The 3 general areas of myopathology discussed are metabolic myopathies, toxic myopathies, and inflammatory myopathies. The authors, neuropathologists, hope to provide in this article what they think are some commonalities and disease-specific methods in their pathologic workup as well as a practical approach to the collaboration that pathologists undertake with their rheumatology colleagues to come to a working diagnosis.
Phase transitions of phospholipid single-wall vesicles and multilayers. Measurement by vibrational Raman spectroscopic frequency differences.

Abstract Raman spectroscopic frequency differences between selected carbon-carbon stretching modes of lipid hydrocarbon chains were determined as a function of temperature for use in monitoring lipid phase transition behavior and acyl chain disorder in both multilamellar and single-wall vesicles. Transition temperatues detected by this procedure for pure dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine and dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine multilayers were observed at 39±1 ° C and 23±1 ° C , respectively. Although the phase transition for unilamellar vesicles of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine occurred at nearly the same temperature as the multilayers, the crystal-liquid crystalline transition for the single-shell vesicles appeared to span a slightly broader temperature range, a characteristic consistent with irregularities in the packing arrangement of the hydrocarbon chains. Within the precision of the Raman spectroscopic method, however, the temperature behavior of both the multilamellar and the unilamellar dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine assemblies appeared nearly identical. The temperature profile for the Raman frequency differences of an excess water sonicate of 25 mol percent cholesterol in dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine served as an example of the effect upon lipid phase transition characteristics of a bilayer component intercalated between the acyl chains. For this particular cholesterol-lipid system the phase transition was broadened over a 30 °C temperature range, in contrast to the narrow 5−4 °C range observed for pure multilayer and single-shell vesicle particles.
Imagery and Pavlovian heart rate decelerative conditioning.

The present experiment was designed to investigate the role of US-imagery in Pavlovian heart rate(HR) decelerative conditioning with a head-up to head-down body tilt as the unconditional stimulus (US). From imagery theories of Pavlovian conditioning (e.g., King, 1973), it was hypothesized that the nature (content) of the imagery instructions would affect the conditional response (CR). Two groups of 20 subjects were employed: an Experimental (CS-US) group and a Control (US-CS) group. Half the subjects in each group were instructed to imagine the tilt-US whenever the CS was presented (Relevant Imagery condition); the remaining subjects were instructed to imagine a car-ride whenever the CS was presented (Irrelevant Imagery condition). The HR CR was assessed on a second-by-second basis during CS-alone lest trials. The results of the experiment supported the hypothesis: despite an identical CS-US contingency, only the Experimental/Relevant Imagery group (as opposed to the Experimental/Irrelevant Imagery group) demonstrated a marked, monophasic decelerative CR to the CS relative to control groups. Differences in imagery ability, instructed-imagery vividness ratings, and US-awareness ratings could not account for the data. The significance and implications of these findings are discussed in relation to stimulus substitution (S-R) and cognitive (S-S) theories of conditioning.
Scaling the spin densities separately in density-functional theory

Coordinate scaling of each spin density separately is considered in spin-density-functional theory. A virial theorem relates the spin-scaled correlation energy to the spin-scaled correlation potentials. An adiabatic connection formula expresses energies at different spin interaction strengths in terms of spin scaling. Several popular approximate functionals are evaluated on the spin-scaled densities of atoms and of the uniform electron gas. The differences between this and uniform scaling are discussed.
Increased gut permeability early after burns correlates with the extent of burn injury.

ObjectiveTo determine if increased gut permeability within 48 hrs after burn injury correlates with the extent of injury, before sepsis and pulmonary disorders have complicated the clinical course.DesignNonrandomized, controlled study.PatientsConsecutive patients admitted with burn injuries on >20%
Whole-sentence exponential language models

We introduce an exponential language model which models a whole sentence or utterance as a single unit. By avoiding the chain rule, the model treats each sentence as a “bag of features", where features are arbitrary computable properties of the sentence. The new model is computationally more efficient, and more naturally suited to modeling global sentential phenomena, than the conditional exponential (e.g. maximum entropy) models proposed to date. Using the model is straightforward. Training the model requires sampling from an exponential distribution. We describe the challenge of applying Monte Carlo Markov Chain and other sampling techniques to natural language, and discuss smoothing and step-size selection. We then present a novel procedure for feature selection, which exploits discrepancies between the existing model and the training corpus. We demonstrate our ideas by constructing and analysing competitive models in the Switchboard and Broadcast News domains, incorporating lexical and syntactic information.
Action of staphylococcal α-toxin on membranes: some recent advances.

Recent developments in the area of Staphylococcal α-toxin studies are presented which modify the concepts previously held with respect to both biological and physical properties of α-toxin. New data concerning the nature of the binding site for α-toxin on rabbit erythrocyte membranes and a model to explain the various observed complexes of α-toxin and membrane receptor are discussed. Finally, evidence suggesting that Staphylococcal α-toxin is a potent demyelinating agent is presented.
Automatic perceptual color map generation for realistic volume visualization

Advances in computed tomography imaging technology and inexpensive high performance computer graphics hardware are making high-resolution, full color (24-bit) volume visualizations commonplace. However, many of the color maps used in volume rendering provide questionable value in knowledge representation and are non-perceptual thus biasing data analysis or even obscuring information. These drawbacks, coupled with our need for realistic anatomical volume rendering for teaching and surgical planning, has motivated us to explore the auto-generation of color maps that combine natural colorization with the perceptual discriminating capacity of grayscale. As evidenced by the examples shown that have been created by the algorithm described, the merging of perceptually accurate and realistically colorized virtual anatomy appears to insightfully interpret and impartially enhance volume rendered patient data.
The median voter, setters, and non-repeated construction bond issues

The median voter model pervades the literature concerning the estimation of demands for collective expenditures but with some unanswered criticism. The general issue addressed in this paper is whether observed collective expenditure levels and the characteristics of observed majorities are more adequately described by the median voter model or the Romer and Rosenthal setter model. On a sample of non-repeated hospital construction referenda bond issues, the median voter model and the Romer and Rosenthal setter model are compared in both full-information and uncertainty contexts. Little empirical support of the setter model is found. Indeed, the evidence supports the absence of expenditure maximizing behavior. The specific conclusions are: (1) the standard median voter model explains quite well for this sample of non-repeated bond issues, (2) the explanatory power of the median voter model appears to vary across both voting arrangements and types of reversion threats, (3) the explanation of hospital expenditures which have been judged ‘too large’ may be due to how benefits and costs are distributed among voters, and (4) the preponderance of large majorities for hospital construction, in the face of evidence that such facilities typically become a burden on the general tax fund, is consistent with setters offering the median ideal in the presence of a reversion below the ideal.
Optofluidic Fluorescent Imaging Cytometry on a Cell Phone

Fluorescent microscopy and flow cytometry are widely used tools in biomedical sciences. Cost-effective translation of these technologies to remote and resource-limited environments could create new opportunities especially for telemedicine applications. Toward this direction, here we demonstrate the integration of imaging cytometry and fluorescent microscopy on a cell phone using a compact, lightweight, and cost-effective optofluidic attachment. In this cell-phone-based optofluidic imaging cytometry platform, fluorescently labeled particles or cells of interest are continuously delivered to our imaging volume through a disposable microfluidic channel that is positioned above the existing camera unit of the cell phone. The same microfluidic device also acts as a multilayered optofluidic waveguide and efficiently guides our excitation light, which is butt-coupled from the side facets of our microfluidic channel using inexpensive light-emitting diodes. Since the excitation of the sample volume occurs through...
Effect of plasma proteins on oxygen diffusion in the pulmonary capillaries.

Abstract In the consideration of the gaseous diffusion capacities of the pulmonary membrane, the blood plasma, and the red blood cell, it has been calculated that the pulmonary membrane, and, in particular, the blood plasma may be major resistances to the gas transfer from the alveoli of the lungs to the hemoglobin molecules of the red cells. In vitro measurements of the effect of plasma protein concentrations on the diffusivity of oxygen show that the diffusivity can undergo a fivefold change as the plasma protein concentration is varied between the extremes of the normal physiological range. As a result, it appears that the overall gas transfer may be affected and possibly limited by altering the gaseous diffusion coefficient in plasma through changes in the concentration of the plasma proteins.
Trends in body composition for infants and children in the U.S.

Nationally representative health examination surveys have collected anthropometric measurements on children and adolescents in the U.S. These data may serve as very crude indicators of total fat or fat-free body mass, but do not yield information on body composition per se. Attempts to accurately describe trends in obesity for children and adolescents have been complicated by a number of limitations associated with body measurements taken over time in sequential surveys. Inferences from limited anthropometric measures should be made cautiously. Factors to consider include the selection of cutpoints for trend analysis, changes that may be within range of technical measurement error, and use of data at extreme percentiles. Ostensible trends may be genuine, but they may also be influenced by methodological differences across surveys. Comparative data are presented for selected body measures from 1963 to 1980 for U.S. children and adolescents sampled in national health examination surveys, and apparent differences are discussed.
Re-presenting Sport: How Instant Replay and Perceived Violence Impact Enjoyment of Mediated Sports

Scholars have asserted that instant replay profoundly impacted the practices and conventions of televising athletic competition. However, empirical explorations of how this technique impacts viewer response are scarce. This experiment was designed to fill this gap by exploring the relationship between instant replay, perceived violence, and enjoyment across both exciting and dull game play. Results suggest that replay impacts perceived violence such that viewing dull play followed by replay increased perceived violence, whereas the opposite was true for exciting play. Moreover, perceived violence more strongly contributed to enjoyment of dull play relative to exciting play. Taken together, these findings illustrate the potential utility of replay to impact viewer perception of mediated sports.
Fast, Simultaneous Multiple Fluorophore Fitting in Single Molecule Super-Resolution Imaging

Single molecule localization based super-resolution (SML-SR) imaging techniques require repeated localization of many single fluorophores. If, during analysis, successful localization does not require isolated fluorophores, the performance can be improved in one or more of several metrics that result in higher single-frame density of active fluorophores. For example: Data acquisition time can be reduced; A larger number of fluorophores can be localized; There is a higher tolerance on labeling density; and Dyes with higher minimum duty cycle can be used.We have developed a method that uses the maximum likelihood estimator to localize multiple fluorophores simultaneously within a fitting sub region. We find that for a fitting region of size approximately 6 sigmaPSF (where sigmaPSF parameterizes a 2D Gaussian PSF model) localization of up to 5 fluorophores provides a good compromise between fit accuracy and analysis time. For speed, the algorithm is implemented on Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) architecture in a manner similar to our previous single molecule analysis (Smith, Nat. Methods 7, 373-375 2010) and achieves near real-time analysis speed.We show the performance of multiple fluorophore fitting as a function of (1) maximum allowed number of fitted fluorophores and (2) single-frame active emitter density. We describe the details of the algorithm that allow robust fitting, the details of the GPU implementation, and the other imaging processing steps required for the analysis of (SML-SR) data sets. As a demonstration, we show that our new multi-fluorophore super resolution imaging method reveals actin structure in a HeLa cell under conditions where a high single-frame fluorophore density results in poor reconstructed images using conventional single fluorophore based super resolution imaging techniques.
POLLINATION BIOLOGY AND CHEMOTAXONOMY OF THE ECHINOCEREUS VIRIDIFLORUS COMPLEX (CACTACEAE)

The Echinocereus viridiflorus complex is morphologically distinct from other members of the genus. Temporal differences in flowering preclude natural interspecific hybridization between taxa of the E. viridiflorus complex and sympatric congeners. All taxa within the complex are xenogamous and self-incompatible. Considerable taxonomic disagreement exists among herbarium and field botanists with regard to species boundaries and infraspecific classification of the taxa constituting the E. viridiflorus complex. One author views the complex as consisting of a single species, E. viridiflorus while other authors additionally recognize E. chloranthus, E. russanthus, and E. davisii. Pollination in E. viridiflorus is by solitary halictid bees. Photographs taken with a filter transmitting long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light revealed two floral patterns among entities of the complex: entirely UV-absorbing tepals and tepals with UVreflective outer segments and UV-absorbing centers (target-type blossoms). We suggest that UV-floral patterning increases pollinator visitation and efficiency. Six flavonol-O-glycosides and two dihydroflavonol-7-O-glycosides were localized in tepal tissue. No qualitative differences were seen either between differentially UV-patterned flowers or among E. viridiflorus, E. chloranthus, E. davisii, and E. russanthus. Flavonoid evidence indicates that these taxa are
Principles of Technology Integration and Curriculum Development

Abstract To better prepare pre-service candidates for teaching in the information age, the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) has defined National Educational Technology Standards (NETS) to guide technology integration into teacher education programs. Based on these standards, Brigham Young University (BYU) has implemented strategies for technology integration into their teacher education program by creating curriculum design teams composed of School of Education faculty, public school personnel, and instructional design and technology specialists. This paper describes basic principles that have led to the successful development of curriculum design teams for systemic reform in teacher education.
The Impact of Labels and Behaviors on the Stigmatization of Adults with Asperger’s Disorder

Currently, there is a paucity of literature on stigmatization of adults with Asperger’s Disorder (AD). Therefore, this study examined whether young adults hold stigmatizing views towards individuals with AD and if that stigmatization is elicited by behaviors or labels. College students (N = 195) read one of six vignettes. A modified Social Distance Scale (Link et al. 1987) was used to assess stigmatization. A 2 × 3 analysis of variance revealed that the social behaviors commonly observed in AD significantly impacted stigmatization scores, while the label, “Asperger’s Disorder,” did not. These findings have important implications for future research, educating the public, providing support services, and treatment recommendations for individuals with AD.
Osteocalcin positive CD133+/CD34-/KDR+ progenitor cells as an independent marker for unstable atherosclerosis.

Aims For the characterization of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), commonly the markers CD34 and KDR have been used. CD133+/CD34−/KDR+ cells may represent more immature ‘early’ progenitors. In patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), a large fraction of EPCs carry the osteoblastic marker osteocalcin (OCN), which may mediate vascular calcification and abnormal repair. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of OCN+ ‘early’ EPCs in patients with risk factors (RFs) and a history of stable (history of stenting/coronary artery bypass grafting) or unstable CAD (myocardial infarction). Methods and results Medical history and blood samples from 282 patients (age 58 ± 16 years) with CAD or at least one RF (mean 2.5 ± 1.5) were analysed. For the analysis of EPC markers (CD133, CD34, KDR) and OCN, the flow cytometry of peripheral blood mononuclear cells was performed. Circulating OCN+/CD133+/CD34−/KDR+ cells (median counts [interquartile range] per 100 000 events) were 15 [4–41] in patients with RF ( n = 199), 26 [1–136] in those with a history of stable ( n = 57), and 246 [105–308] in those with a history of unstable CAD ( n = 26; P < 0.001). The association with unstable CAD remained highly significant even after multivariate adjusting for RFs and the different characteristics of the groups. Osteocalcin positive ‘early’ EPCs trend to predict further events [HR for each doubling of the cell number: 1.20 (95% CI: 1.00–1.46), P = 0.06]. Conclusion Circulating OCN+ ‘early’ EPCs are strongly associated with unstable CAD. Therefore, this particular subset of EPCs could mediate abnormal vascular repair and may help identifying patients with a more unstable phenotype of atherosclerosis.
Structure and evolution of the growth hormone gene family.

Introduction GROWTH HORMONE (GH), prolactin (Prl), and chorionic somatomammotropin (CS, placental lactogen) are a family of polypeptide hormones that are related by function, immunochemistry, and structure (1–5). Despite their relatedness, these hormones are synthesized in a tissue-specific manner. GH and Prl are produced in the anterior pituitary, whereas CS is produced by the syncytiotrophoblast of the placenta. All three hormones possess lactogenic and growth-promoting activities. GH is required for postnatal growth and maintenance of nitrogen, mineral, lipid, and carbohydrate metabolism (6), while mammalian Prl is primarily involved in the initiation and maintenance of lactation (7). CS may provide GH-like activities to the developing fetus (8, 9), although it does not appear to be an essential hormone (10). The three hormones have a similar size (190 to 199 amino acids among various species) and they all have similar protein structures. Each hormone has a single homologous tryptophan residue at about...
Amphetamine exposure is elevated in Parkinson's disease.

Abstract Background Since the 1930's, amphetamine drugs have been used therapeutically and recreationally. High doses are associated with acute injury to axon terminals of dopaminergic neurons. It is unknown whether low dose exposure to amphetamine over a prolonged time period is associated with the development of Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods A telephone survey of drug and chemical exposure was administered to patients from three faculty practice clinics at UCSF. Patients were asked to participate if they had been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy (PN), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or PD between the ages of 40 and 64. Spouses or caregivers were also asked to participate. “Amphetamine exposure” was defined as a prior use of amphetamine, methamphetamine or dextroamphetamine. “Prolonged exposure” was defined as amphetamine use that occurred more than twice a week for ≥3 months or weekly usage for ≥1 year and had to occur before diagnosis of the neurological condition. Results Prolonged exposure to either prescribed or non-prescribed amphetamine was common, occurring in 15% with PN (11/76), 13% with ALS (9/72), and 11% with PD (17/158). Prolonged amphetamine exposure was more frequent in diseased patients compared to spouses when all diseases were combined (adjusted OR = 3.15, 95% CI 1.42–7.00, p = 0.005). When tested alone, only the Parkinson's disease group retained statistical significance (adjusted OR = 8.04, 95% CI 1.56–41.4, p = 0.013). For most individuals, exposure occurred long before diagnosis (averages: PN 25 years, ALS 28 years, and PD 27 years). Conclusions The elevated rate of prolonged amphetamine exposure in PD is intriguing and bears further investigation.
The disarticulation of farming systems research with national agricultural systems: Bringing FSR back in

Abstract Despite efforts of the 1960s and 1970s, such as capital and technology transfer and high yielding varieties of the Green Revolution, undesirable social and economic changes persist and in most cases have accelerated. One of the current methodological approaches to analyzing and solving agricultural problems, farming systems research, is encountering the same frustrations and lack of success as its theoretical forerunners. It is the contention of this paper that unless FSR is articulated with its political economy and an enlightened national agricultural policy designed with equity, it will not succeed.
Role change for school psychology: The challenge continues in the new millennium

Calls for change in the role of school psychologists have appeared in the literature over a period of nearly 50 years. Evidence of change exists for some outstanding individual school psychologists and in a number of model programs, but not on a widespread basis. This paper discusses ideas for role change that have appeared rather consistently in the literature: an emphasis on indirect service, application of the science of psychology, an emphasis on prevention, systematic evaluation of services, involvement of various stakeholders, and consideration of diversity from a broad perspective. Hopefully the 21st century will bring more widespread implementation of these ideas because there is likely to be an even greater need for such services in the schools. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Synthesis of mitochondrial RNA by full-grown and maturing oocytes of Rana pipiens and Xenopus laevis.

Abstract Full-grown oocytes of Rana pipiens and Xenopus laevis are found to synthesize mitochondrial RNA both before and during progesterone-induced maturation in vitro . Gel electrophoresis of labeled mitochondrial (mt) RNA reveals that maturing oocytes synthesize “large” and “small” mitochondrial rRNA's, 4 S RNA and heterodisperse RNA. Prior to germina vesicle breakdown in Xenopus stage 6 oocytes, mtRNA synthesis accounts for less than 2% of total RNA production. After nuclear dissolution, substantially more [ 3 H]GTP incorporation can be considered mitochondrial in origin, due primarily to a dramatic reduction in nuclear-directed RNA synthesis. Levels of mtRNA-associated radioactivity after 5–6-hr pulses are essentially the same at all times before and during maturation, suggesting a constant rate of mtRNA synthesis throughout maturation. Actual rates of mtRNA synthesis by the Xenopus stage 6 oocyte in vitro have been estimated following analysis of the kinetics of [ 3 H]GTP uptake into the mitochondrial acid-soluble pool and incorporation into purified mtRNA. The minimum rates of total mtRNA and mitochondrial rRNA synthesis are calculated to be 21–45 and 6–13 pg/hr/oocyte, respectively. At least a portion of the “DNA-like RNA” reported to be synthesized by the Xenopus oocyte during in vivo ovulation, can be attributed to transcription of mitochondrial rather than nuclear DNA.
Community Caregiving and Community Consciousness: Immigrant Latinas Developing Communities through Social Service Programs

Community organizing and development involve a process that often begins before a formal group or goal is identified. This article is a qualitative interpretive analysis ofaproject involving a certification program for family child care providers that offered training to Spanish-speaking immigrant Latinas' in a medium-sized Midwestern city in Wisconsin. Using ethnographic data from field observations and comments by participants, the author examines how participants used the program to foster a pan-ethnic Latino community and evolved a community consciousness around childrearing and child care. Several elements intertwined in the program contributing to the development of a panethnic Latina sense of community: (1) opportunities for individual development, (2) social support networks and mentoring that reduced the isolation of recent immigrants, (3) meetings allowing for gender-appropriate and culturally-specific ways to gather, and (4) how the immigrants came to own the program and redefine its purpose as...
The relationship of retinal VEGF and retinal IGF-1 mRNA with neovascularization in an acidosis-induced model of retinopathy of prematurity.

Purpose: Acidosis-induced retinopathy (AIR) in the neonatal rat provides an alternative model for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). We studied the relationship of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) retinal mRNA and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) retinal mRNA expression with the emergence of neovascularization (NV) in AIR. Methods: Two hundred seventy-five newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were raised in 11 expanded litters of 25. Using our established AIR model, acidosis was induced by twice-daily gavage with NH4Cl from day 2 to day 8 of life (n = 175). Rats were sacrificed at days 5, 8, and 10. Nongavaged rats were used as age-matched controls (n = 100). Retinae from left eyes were dissected, flatmounts were ADPase-stained, and the presence and severity of NV was scored in a masked manner. Individual right retinae were processed for analysis of retinal VEGF and IGF-1 mRNA using quantitative real-time reverse-transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR). Results: Retinal VEGF mRNA was increased 1.4-fold at day 10 i...
Identification of Stereoselective Transporters for S-Nitroso-L-cysteine ROLE OF LAT1 AND LAT2 IN BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF S-NITROSOTHIOLS

Abstract Many of the biological effects of nitric oxide are mediated by S-nitrosothiols. However, the mechanisms by which S-nitrosothiols transduce their activity across cell membranes are unclear. We show that the pathway responsible for the cellular effects of S-nitrosothiols is specific for S-nitrosocysteine (CSNO), is stereoselective, and requires direct uptake of intact l-CSNO. Transport is independent of extracellular sodium, competitively inhibited by leucine, and blocked by 2-aminobicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2-carboxylic acid, a specific inhibitor of the system L amino acid transporter family. Other nitrosothiols such as S-nitrosoglutathione are not substrates for transport and require reaction with l-cysteine for activity. To show that system L family members mediate uptake, we expressed two members, LAT1 and LAT2, in Xenopus oocytes. Both LAT1 and LAT2, when co-expressed with 4F2 heavy chain, were found to efficiently transport l-CSNO. Mammalian cells were shown to express LAT1 and LAT2. A431 cells express both proteins, whereas T24 cells express only LAT1. Overexpression of LAT1 in T24 cells using recombinant adenoviruses led to increased uptake of l-CSNO, whereas knockdown using a specific small interfering RNA led to decreased uptake. These data definitively identify LAT1 and LAT2 as members of system L that mediate transmembrane movement of l-CSNO and suggest that system L family members are involved in the cellular activity of small molecular weight nitrosothiols.
Current molecular understanding of the genetically programmed process of leaf senescence

Natural leaf senescence proceeds through an orderly program of events referred to, generally, as the ‘senescence syndrome’. Leaf senescence consists of primarily, but not exclusively, a set of degradative and remobilization activities that salvage valuable nutrients by reallocation to the seeds or other viable parts of the plant. The program requires changes in gene expression and eventually culminates in death of the leaf or whole plant. Leaf/whole plant senescence has now been scrutinized extensively using molecular genetic approaches and a clearer picture of the events that comprise the developmental program is beginning to emerge. However, while understandings of the phenomenological aspects of the program have become apparent, the mechanistic aspects, particularly with regard to the processes required for induction and regulation of the program, are still far from clear. Molecular evidence suggests the process is complex in terms of the wide array of genes and activities expressed, and in terms of the overall regulation of progression of the events of the syndrome. This article attempts to review our current understanding of leaf senescence and includes a brief discussion of aspects of the process that require clarification if we are to more fully understand this complex developmental program.
Society of Gynecologic Investigation: What Gets Published?

Objective To compare publication rates of the plenary slide presentations (plenary), concurrent slide presentations (concurrent), and poster presentations (poster) at Society for Gynecologic Investigation (SGI) meetings for the interval 1990 to 1999. Methods The SGI program and abstract books for years 1990-1999 were examined, with all plenary and twice the number of randomly selected concurrent and poster abstracts identified. For each abstract, PUBMED was used to search for authors and subject topics, if needed. Rates of publication in various journals were compared: group 1: weekly general journals (New England Journal of Medicine [NEJM], Journal of the American Medical Association [JAMA], Nature); group 2: monthly obstetrics/gynecology journals (American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology); and group 3: other journals (Placenta, Journal of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Fertility and Sterility, etc). Factors predicting ultimate publication were assessed by multivariable analysis. Results Over the 10-year period, 75% of the plenary, 75% of the concurrent, and 66% of the poster abstract presentations were published (P = not significant [NS]), with the majority being published in group 3 journals. Multivariable analysis did not find any factor predictive of publication in plenary, concurrent, or poster groups. Sixty-five percent of all presentations were basic science-related and this did not change over time. Conclusions SGI presentations have an overall publication rate of 68%, which is higher than that reported in the literature for other societies (29-45%). Furthermore, the plenary and concurrent publication rates were not different from the poster publication rate. This suggests that all types of presentations are of quality as measured by publication rate. The SGI continues to publish predominantly basic science research, which is one of its missions.
Proteomics Exploration Reveals That Actin Is a Signaling Target of the Kinase Akt

The serine/threonine kinase Akt is a key mediator of cell survival and cell growth that is activated by most growth factors, but its downstream signaling largely remains to be elucidated. To identify signaling partners of Akt, we analyzed proteins co-immunoprecipitated with Akt in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Mass spectrometry analysis (MALDI-TOF and MS-MS) of SDS-PAGE-separated Akt co-immunoprecipitates allowed the identification of 10 proteins: α -actinin, valosin-containing protein, inhibitor κB kinase, mortalin, tubulin β, cytokeratin 8, actin, 14-3-3σ, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and heat shock protein HSP27. The identification of these putative Akt binding partners were validated with specific antibodies. Interestingly, the major protein band observed in Akt co-immunoprecipitates was found to be the cytoskeleton protein actin for which a 14-fold increase was observed in Akt-activated compared with non-activated conditions. The interaction between Akt and actin was further confirmed by reverse immunoprecipitation, and confocal microscopy demonstrated a co-localization specifically induced under growth factor stimulation. The use of wortmannin indicated a dependence on the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway. Using a phospho-Akt substrate antibody, the phosphorylation of actin on an Akt consensus site was detected upon growth factor stimulation, both in cellulo and in vitro, suggesting that actin is a substrate of Akt kinase activity. Interestingly, cortical remodeling of actin associated with cell migration was reversed by small interfering RNA directed against Akt, indicating the involvement of Akt in the dynamic reorganization of actin cytoskeleton germane to breast cancer cell migration. Together these data identify actin as a new functional target of Akt signaling.
35.2: A New Feedback Current Programming Architecture for 2T1C AMOLED Displays

A new feedback current programming architecture is described that is compatible with AMOLED displays having the 2T1C pixel structure. The new pixel programming approach is compatible with all TFT technologies and can compensate for non-uniformities in both threshold voltage and carrier mobility of the pixel OLED drive TFT. Based on circuit simulations a pixel drive current of less than 10nA can be programmed in less than 50μsec. This new approach can be implemented within an AMOLED external or integrated display data driver.
Reversing the green backlash in services: credible competitors help large companies go green

Purpose – The purpose of this research is to first demonstrate a “green backlash” effect whereby evaluations of a large service organization decrease after the organization announces a new green practice and second, explore how the presence of green competitors might moderate this effect.Design/methodology/approach – The approach includes one exploratory in‐depth interview study and three follow‐up experiments.Findings – The results indicate that consumers percieve large companies to be lacking in credibility and that when a large service organization announces the adoption of a green practice, evaluations of that firm may actually decrease, i.e. a green backlash. Additionally, it is observed that the opposite is true when consumers are aware of a credibly green competitor. In these circumstances, large players are significantly worse off if they do not also adopt green practices. Initially it was hypothesized that the large company would need to imitate the credibly green competitor. However, the results...
Neutropenia Precautions for Children Receiving Chemotherapy or Stem Cell Transplantation for Cancer

Infections in children and adolescents with cancer are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in those receiving chemotherapy who are neutropenic and/or immunocompromised. The aim of this article is to review existing evidence in order to provide a practice recommendation to prevent or minimize infections in neutropenic and/or immunocompromised patients receiving chemotherapy and/or stem cell transplant. Systematic reviews were undertaken and research was graded according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. A variety of interventions are implemented to reduce infections in the neutropenic and/or immunocompromised population; however, few are supported by research evidence. Existing literature should continue to be reviewed to further identify interventions that can influence positive patient outcomes and provide opportunities for individuals in the medical field to work together to improve clinical care.
Narrow- and Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic Use among U.S. Children.

Objectives To provide updated estimates of narrow- and broad-spectrum antibiotic use among U.S. children. Data sources Linked nationally representative data from the 2004-2010 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Household Component and the 2000 Decennial Census. Study design Relationships between individual-, family-, and community-level characteristics and the use of antibiotics overall and in the treatment of respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are examined using multinomial choice models. Principal findings More than one quarter (27.3 percent) of children used at least one antibiotic each year with 12.8 percent using broad-spectrum and 18.5 percent using narrow-spectrum antibiotics. Among children with use, more than two-thirds (68.6 percent) used antibiotics to treat RTIs. Multivariate models revealed many differences across groups in antibiotic use, overall and in the treatment of RTIs. Differential use was associated with a broad range of factors related to need (e.g., age, health status), resources (e.g., insurance status, parental income, and education), race-ethnicity, and Census region. Conclusions Despite encouraging reports regarding the declining use of antibiotics, large differences in use associated with resources, race-ethnicity, and Census regions suggest a need for further improvement in the judicious and appropriate prescribing of antibiotics for U.S. children.
Ericson fluctuations and time delay in the multistep-compound reaction theory of Feshbach, Kerman and Koonin

Abstract We extend the multi-doorway model of Feshbach et al. to obtain, within their assumptions, the energy autocorrelation function C ( ϵ ), as well as the time dependence of the fluctuation cross section. The (several) exponential decay constants of the compound system, one for each doorway class, are shown to be just the pole positions of C ( ϵ ).
Mitigating organizational contradictions: the role of mediatory myths

This article examines the role of mediatory myths in mitigating ideological contradictions of organizations, explaining the nature of such contradictions and how myths act as frameworks for understanding and addressing complex reality. Case study analyses are provided of four community mental health centers in North Carolina involved with outpatient commitment. Data were collected over two years through observation, interviews with personnel, and medical and court records of clients. The author found that a mediational myth concerning the efficacy of medication operates in these centers, and that this enables participants to perform their work despite contradictory goals of patient liberty versus social control of the mentally ill. These findings expand the concept of the mediatory myth by indicating its role in mitigating contradictions in the environment outside an organization, not just within the organization.
Identification of a Potent DNase Activity Associated with RNase T of Escherichia coli

RNase T was first identified as an enzyme responsible for end turnover of tRNA in Escherichia coli. Its activity, specific for tRNA-C-C-A, catalyzes the release of tRNA-C-C and AMP. RNase T, along with several other RNases, plays a role in maturation of several other RNA species by a similar limited nuclease activity. In previous work, we identified the gene for RNase T, rnt, as a high copy suppressor of the UV sensitivity conferred by deficiency in three single-strand DNA-specific exonucleases, RecJ, exonuclease I, and exonuclease VII. This suggested that RNase T may process DNA substrates as well. In this work, we show that purified RNase T possesses a potent 3′ to 5′ single-strand DNA-specific exonucleolytic activity. Its K m for single-strand DNA substrates is many orders of magnitude lower than that for tRNA, suggesting that single-strand DNA may be a natural biological substrate for RNase T. We suggest that the DNase activity of RNase T may play a role in end trimming reactions during DNA recombination and/or DNA repair.
THE INDEFINITE "YOU"--A COMMON DEFENSE MECHANISM.

Summary An extremely common defense mechanism that has been little described, exists in psychiatric interviews and in every day speech. This is the use of the indefinite pronoun you when one is basically referring to oneself. Consider the following example: “You get thinking in college that you just don't want to sit here and waste your time.” The student has used “you” to describe perhaps “anyone's” experience but, most specifically, his own. In this paper an examination is made of the use of this grammatical construction with reference to psychological motives for its use. Clinical observations are made. Conclusions are drawn from the standpoints of adaptive and dynamic psychiatry regarding probable mechanisms involved. It is felt that further examination of the uses of indefinite pronouns may provide more precise tools with which to investigate clinical data.
Performance Evaluation of Contract Net-Based Heterarchical Scheduling for Flexible Manufacturing Systems

ABSTRACT This article presents a heterarchical scheduling approach for flexible manufacturing systems. The approach adopts a multiagent cooperative problem solving paradigm by using a bidding mechanism based on the contract net protocol to generate the production plan and schedule. Overall, scheduling is implemented using a Production Reservation approach. A typical job shop testbed demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach by comparing its performance to heuristic dispatching rules. Production Reservation augmented with the heuristic dispatching rules has also been shown to be even more effective, and should prove especially valuable in large variety discrete part and assembly manufacturing processes.
DIMENSIONS OF WORK OUTCOMES: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL SCALING APPROACH

There exists a need for basic research on the nature of work outcomes, to facilitate integration of theory and results and to aid in the sampling of outcomes for research and evaluation. Existing research, primarily using factor analysis, has led to a hierarchical model, with numerous sub-factors grouped under the major factors of “intrinsic” and “extrinsic.” Recent research, however, has shown that industrial/organizational psychologists do not agree on the definition of intrinsic and extrinsic. It is argued that a more useful approach is a dimensional model, which allows each work outcome to be described by a set of values on multiple dimensions. A multidimensional scaling analysis of 21 outcomes yields a latent structure with three dimensions: value attached to the outcome by society, level of psychological need met, and extent to which the outcome is inherent in the work itself. Implications for the sampling of outcomes and integration of different literature are discussed. The results suggest that a multidimensional model of work outcomes is more useful than a categorical approach built on the intrinsic/extrinsic dichotomy.