cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The pharmacokinetics of inhaled chlorobenzene in the rat.

Male rats were exposed for 8 hr/day to 100, 400, or 700 ppm of (/sup 14/C)chlorobenzene vapor for either 1 or 5 days for the purpose of examining the dose dependency of parameters indicative of the toxicity process and the effect of repeated exposure. /sup 14/C burdens in the blood, liver, kidneys, lungs, and fat were measured at 0, 16, and 48 hr after exposure. The labeled material excreted in the urine and expired air was collected for 48 hr. Analysis was performed on both the rats and total amounts eliminated. The mercapturic acid percentage of the urinary metabolites excreted in the first 24 hr was measured. The /sup 14/C burdens of all tissues increased in proportion to increased exposure concentrations, except for adipose tissue burdens, which increased more than 30-fold between 100 and 700 ppm. Respiratory elimination of /sup 14/C also increased disproportionately. The urinary metabolite profile was altered, with a dose-dependent decreased in the mercapturic acid percentage from 68% at 100 ppm to 51% at 700 ppm. Changes due to multiple versus single exposures were higher tissue burdens 48 hr after exposure, less total excretion of label, a lesser percentage of the total excreted through respiration, and amore » change in the rate of respiratory excretion. The dose-dependent changes are postulated to be due to saturation of the metabolic elimination of chlorobenzene. The effect of multiple exposure is apparently some stimulation of metabolism.« less
Collaboration with Master’s Students in Home Health Care Research

Changes in health care have created an increasingly complex home health care environment, one in which knowledge derived from research is essential to provide patient care. The development of knowledge is enhanced when nurse researchers, nurse providers, and graduate nursing students collaborate to conduct research. Collaboration in research has many benefits. It benefits graduate students by providing opportunities to gain the skills needed for the advance practice role. It benefits academic researchers by advancing their programs of research, providing additional student resources and a fresh perspective. It benefits providers and the nursing profession by expanding knowledge that defines the profession, drives practice, and holds nurses accountable. Most important, collaborative research efforts benefit patients by assuring that nurses in the future are experienced in research and have the abilities to design, implement, and evaluate nursing care based on scientific evidence, ensuring access to safe an...
Simple method for identification of metallothionein isoforms in cultured human prostate cells by MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry.

The present paper describes a rapid method for identification and characterization of human metallothionein (MT) isoforms in complex cell cultures using high-resolution matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF). In the proposed method, the sample preparation of MTs from cultured cells is both simple and fast. It is accomplished by trypsin cleavage of cell proteins into small peptide species, the majority of which are subsequently removed by gel filtration using beads with an exclusion limit of 4000 Da. In contrast to most cell proteins, MTs remain intact (undigested) upon being treated with trypsin, being excluded by the gel beads and thus recovered by low-speed centrifugation. To identify the protein constitutes of the MT preparation, the MT sample is divided into two parts, one for intact protein accurate mass measurement, the other for tryptic digestion followed by MS and MS/MS analyses. In the latter case, the MT proteins are denatured ...
Transient measurements using thermographic phosphors.

Abstract The decay of thermographic phosphors has been used to measure temperature in a wide variety of applications. Because measurements of a single temperature are obtained from intensity decay in time, the use of phosphors is predicated on the fact that the temperature does not change during the decay. This may not be valid in some engineering applications. A new model for phosphor data reduction designed to recover transient effects is presented. A heated wire experiment is used to determine the efficacy of the approach. Results for a particular microsecond phosphor indicate that transients can be resolved, but not to a great deal of accuracy. Nevertheless, the steady model predicted temperatures that were 10 ∘C off compared to the transient model during high heating.
Use of an iterative convolution approach for qualitative and quantitative peak analysis in low resolution gamma-ray spectra

Abstract In many applications, low resolution gamma-ray spectrometers, such as sodium iodide scintillation detectors, are widely used primarily due to their relatively low cost and high detection efficiency. There is widespread interest in improved methods for analyzing spectral data acquired with such devices, using inverse analysis. Peak means and peak areas in gamma- and X-ray spectra are needed for both qualitative and quantitative analysis. This paper introduces the PEAKSI code package that was developed at the Center for Engineering Applications of Radioisotopes (CEAR). The basic approach described here is to use accurate forward models and iterative convolution instead of direct deconvolution. Rather than smoothing and differentiation a combination of linear regression and non-linear searching is used to minimize the reduced chi-square, since this approach retains the capability of establishing uncertainties in the estimated peak parameters. The PEAKSI package uses a Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) non-linear search method combined with multiple linear regression (MLR) to minimize the reduced chi-square value for fitting single or multiple overlapping peaks to determine peak parameters, including peak means, peak standard deviations or full width at half maximum (FWHM), net peak counts, and background counts of peaks in experimental gamma-ray spectra. This approach maintains the natural error structure so that parameter uncertainties can be estimated. The plan is to release this code to the public in the near future.
Vitamin C and vitamin E restore the resistance of GSH-depleted lens cells to H2O2

A decline in reduced glutathione (GSH) levels is associated with aging and many age-related diseases. The objective of this study was to determine whether other antioxidants can compensate for GSH depletion in protection against oxidative insults. Rabbit lens epithelial cells were depleted of > 75% of intracellular GSH by 25-200 microM buthionine sulfoximine (BSO). Depletion of GSH by BSO alone had little direct effect on cell viability, but resulted in an approximately 30-fold increase in susceptibility to H(2)O(2)-induced cell death. Experimentally enhanced levels of nonprotein sulfhydryls other than GSH (i.e., N-acetylcysteine) did not protect GSH-depleted cells from H(2)O(2)-induced cell death. In contrast, pretreatment of cells with vitamin C (25-50 microM) or vitamin E (5-40 microM), restored the resistance of GSH-depleted cells to H(2)O(2). However, concentrations of vitamin C > 400 microM and vitamin E > 80 microM enhanced the toxic effect of H(2)O(2). Although levels of GSH actually decreased by 10-20% in cells supplemented with vitamin C or vitamin E, the protective effects of vitamin C and vitamin E on BSO-treated cells were associated with significant ( approximately 70%) decreases in oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and concomitant restoration of the cellular redox status (as indicated by GSH:GSSG ratio) to levels detected in cells not treated with BSO. These results demonstrate a role for vitamin C and vitamin E in maintaining glutathione in its reduced form. The ability of vitamin C and vitamin E in compensations for GSH depletion to protect against H(2)O(2)-induced cell death suggests that GSH, vitamin C, and vitamin E have common targets in their actions against oxidative damage, and supports the preventive or therapeutic use of vitamin C and E to combat age- and pathology-associated declines in GSH. Moreover, levels of these nutrients must be optimized to achieve the maximal benefit.
Dietary fat and the development of pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is the fifth most common cause of death due to cancer. Except for an association with cigarette smoking, its etiology is poorly understood. Because of the dearth of epidemiological clues as to causation, studies with experiemntal animal models assume greater importance. Rodent models of pancreatic cancer indicate that while dietary fatper se does not cause pancreatic cancer, it does enhance or promote tumor development. Subsequent to treatment with a pancreatic carcinogen, high intakes of dietary unsaturated fats of the n−6 series, but not saturated fats, enhance or promote tumor development. A requisite level of linoleic acid is needed for this promotion. Fats of the n−3 series (e.g., certain fish oils) are inhibitory to tumor growth. Promotion by dietary fats appears only partly related to the high caloric content of fat. Mechanistically, certain dietary unsaturated fats appear to selectively enhance the growth rate of carcinogeninduced, pre-cancerous lesions. Irrespective of precise understanding of mechanisms of promotion, it, appears possible to intervene in the process of cancer development and reduce the burden of cancer. Experimentally, this may be accomplished by decreasing total fat intake, decreasing caloric intake, increasing exercise or increasing the intake of n−3 fatty acids.
Urinary nitrite and nitrate concentrations in patients with idiopathic persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn and effect of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

ABSTRACT: Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) often requires extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), during which time pulmonary vascular resistance gradually declines. Nitric oxide (NO) is a recently recognized pulmonary vasodilator, but its role in PPHN is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that the concentrations of the urinary metabolites of NO, i.e. nitrite and nitrate, are reduced in patients with PPHN and increase during ECMO as the PPHN resolves. Eight newborn infants with PPHN on ECMO were studied. Daily urinary concentrations of nitrite/nitrate were measured. We found that mean urinary concentrations of nitrite/nitrate were lower in patients with PPHN than in 47 controls without pulmonary disease (p < 0.005). Urinary nitrite/nitrate concentration showed an initial increase after initiation of ECMO. However, a decrease to concentrations still lower than controls occurred on the day before decannulation. We conclude that intrinsic NO production is significantly lower in patients with PPHN than in controls but increases with oxygenation. We speculate that decreased urinary NO metabolite concentrations imply a role for NO deficiency in the pathogenesis of PPHN.
Calculation of distorted circular dichroism curves for poly-L-glutamic acid suspensions.

Abstract Concentration-obscuring due to absorption-flattening and light-scattering were considered as two sources of artifact in the circular dichroism spectra of suspensions. Simultaneous circular dichroism and absorption spectra—using the same beam, sample and phototube—were obtained on PGA solutions and suspensions exhibiting varying degrees of turbidity. The flattening quotient, Q A , and the apparent absorption due to light scatter, A S , were calculated from the absorption curves. These experimentally derived values of Q A and A S were found to be the correct quantities for calculating distorted circular dichroism spectra, particularly at wavelengths near 190 and 225 mμ. The small difference between the calculated and experimental suspension circular dichroism curves resembles the optical rotatory dispersion curve. It is suggested that this is due to the differential scatter of the left and right circularly polarized light. That the experimentally derived values of Q A and A S were so adequate in calculating the distorted spectra demonstrates the utility of the underlying considerations in arriving at meaningful spectra on suspensions.
Immunotherapy for patients with malignant glioma: from theoretical principles to clinical applications

Malignant gliomas are the most common type of primary brain tumor and are in great need of novel therapeutic approaches. Advances in treatment have been very modest, significant improvement in survival has been lacking for many decades and prognosis remains dismal. Despite ‘gross total’ surgical resections and currently available radio-chemotherapy, malignant gliomas inevitably recur due to reservoirs of notoriously invasive tumor cells that infiltrate adjacent and nonadjacent areas of normal brain parenchyma. In principle, the immune system is uniquely qualified to recognize and target these infiltrative pockets of tumor cells, which have generally eluded conventional treatment approaches. In the span of the last 10 years, our understanding of the cancer–immune system relationship has increased exponentially, and yet, we are only beginning to tease apart the intricacies of the CNS and immune cell interactions. This article reviews the complex associations of the immune system with brain tumors. We provid...
Atomic emission spectrometry of metal oxides using shock tube excitation

Abstract The behavior of powdered samples in the region behind the incident and reflected shock wave were investigated. When the particle size is less than 8 μm, the powdered samples are effectively vaporized and excited to emit spectral lines. It was shown that the sample particles are scattered behind the incident wave and concentrated again in a narrow portion near the observation window by the use of a reflector so that intense emission can be attained. As an excitation source, the shock tube was used for the determination of trace metals contained in copper oxide.
Case Studies of Extreme Climatic Events in the Amazon Basin

The present exploration of climate-anomaly mechanisms, on the basis of surface-climatological and hydrological series, as well as upper-air and satellite observations, gives attention to the March-April rainy season peak in northern Amazonia. While the moderately wet year 1986 exhibited a far-southerly location of the Atlantic near-equatorial trough, and an embedded intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), the extremely dry El Nino year 1983 featured a more northerly ITCZ. Major mechanisms of extreme rainfall events are synthesized on the basis of these analyses.
Analytical Prediction of the Chip Back-Flow Angle in Machining With Restricted Contact Grooved Tools

This paper develops a new analytical model to predict the chip back-flow angle in machining with restricted contact grooved tools. The model is derived from a recently established universal slip-line model for machining with restricted contact cutaway tools. A comprehensive definition of the chip back-flow angle is presented first, and based on this, a quantitative analysis of the chip back-flow effect is established for a given set of cutting conditions, tool geometry and variable tool-chip interfacial stress state. The model also predicts the cutting forces, the chip thickness, and the chip up-curl radius. A full experimental validation of the analytical predictive model involving the use of high speed filming technique is then presented for the chip back-flow angle. This validation provides a range of feasible/prevalent tool-chip interfacial frictional conditions for the given set of input conditions.
Do Mentors Matter in Graduating Pediatrics Residents' Career Choices?

Abstract Objective Little is known about the association between mentorship and career choice during residency in pediatrics. This study examines graduating residents with mentors who provide career advice and the relationship between having a mentor who is a subspecialist and having a subspecialty practice goal. Methods National, random samples of 1000 graduating pediatrics residents were surveyed each year from 2006 to 2012; 4197 (61%) responded. Responses were pooled across years to examine mentor specialty and career goal at time of residency graduation. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine relationships between mentor specialty and career goal at the time of graduation. Results Most (87%) residents reported having a mentor who provided career advice during residency; the proportion linearly increased from 83% in 2006 to 87% in 2012; P Conclusions Almost 9 in 10 pediatric residents have a mentor who provides career advice. Although multiple factors shape decisions about careers, mentor specialty is one factor that might encourage residents to pursue fellowship training.
A Variation-Based Methodology for Product Family Design

In recent years, considerable research has been directed towards the development of methods for designing families of products. In this paper, we present a Variation-Based Platform Design Methodology (VBPDM), which aims to satisfy a range of performance requirements using the smallest variation of the product designs in the family. In the first stage of the VBPDM, the common product platform around which the product family is to be developed is identified. A ranged set of solutions is found, represented by the mean and standard deviation of the input design variables, to meet a range of the different performance requirements for the product family. During this first stage, a compromise Decision Support Problem (DSP) is used to optimize the commonality goal that seeks to minimize the deviation of the input design variables, while satisfying the range of performance requirements. Those design variables that show small deviations are held constant to form the product platform. In the second stage of the VBPDM, each individual product is designed around the common platform such that the functional requirements of the product are best satisfied. As an example, the proposed method is used to develop a family of universal electric motors designed to meet a range of torque requirements. The results are compared against previous work.
Recent developments in nanofabrication using scanning near-field optical microscope lithography

In addition to its well-known capabilities in imaging and spectroscopy, scanning near-field optical microscopy (SNOM) has recently shown its great potentials for fabricating various structures at the nanoscale. A variety of SNOM-based fabrication techniques have been developed for different applications. In this paper, the SNOM-based techniques involving three major functions: material modification, addition, and removal, are examined with emphasis on their abilities and reliability to make structures with resolutions at the nanometer level. The principles and procedures underlying each technique are presented, and the differences and uniqueness among them are subsequently discussed. Finally, concluding remarks are provided to summarize the major techniques studied and to recommend the scopes for technology improvement and future research.
Islamic Banking: How Has It Expanded?

We investigate the determinants of the pattern of Islamic bank expansion around the world using country-level data for 1992-2006. The analysis illustrates that income per capita, share of Muslims in the population, and economic integration with Middle Eastern countries are linked to the development of Islamic banking. Interest rates have a negative impact, while the quality of institutions is not found to be significant. The September 11, 2001, attacks were not a major factor in the expansion of Islamic banking, but they coincided with rising oil prices. Islamic banks also appear to be complements to, rather than substitutes for, conventional banks.
Oxidative cytotoxic agent withaferin A resensitizes temozolomide-resistant glioblastomas via MGMT depletion and induces apoptosis through Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitory modulation

Temozolomide (TMZ) has remained the chemotherapy of choice in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) primarily due to the lack of more effective drugs. Tumors, however, quickly develop resistance to this line of treatment creating a critical need for alternative approaches and strategies to resensitize the cells. Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from several genera of the Solanaceae plant family has previously demonstrated potent anti-cancer activity in multiple tumor models. Here, we examine the effects of WA against TMZ-resistant GBM cells as a monotherapy and in combination with TMZ. WA prevented GBM cell proliferation by dose-dependent G2/M cell cycle arrest and cell death through both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. This effect correlated with depletion of principle proteins of the Akt/mTOR and MAPK survival and proliferation pathways with diminished phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, and p70 S6K but compensatory activation of ERK1/2. Depletion of tyrosine kinase cell surface receptors c-Met, EGFR, and Her2 was also observed. WA demonstrated induction of N-acetyl-L-cysteine-repressible oxidative stress as measured directly and through a subsequent heat shock response with HSP32 and HSP70 upregulation and decreased HSF1. Finally, pretreatment of TMZ-resistant GBM cells with WA was associated with O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) depletion which potentiated TMZ-mediated MGMT degradation. Combination treatment with both WA and TMZ resulted in resensitization of MGMT-mediated TMZ-resistance but not resistance through mismatch repair mutations. These studies suggest great clinical potential for the utilization of WA in TMZ-resistant GBM as both a monotherapy and a resensitizer in combination with the standard chemotherapeutic agent TMZ.
Ablation of the Id2 Gene Results in Altered Circadian Feeding Behavior, and Sex-Specific Enhancement of Insulin Sensitivity and Elevated Glucose Uptake in Skeletal Muscle and Brown Adipose Tissue

Inhibitor of DNA binding 2 (ID2) is a helix-loop-helix transcriptional repressor rhythmically expressed in many adult tissues. Our earlier studies have demonstrated a role for ID2 in the input pathway, core clock function and output pathways of the mouse circadian system. We have also reported that Id2 null (Id2-/-) mice are lean with low gonadal white adipose tissue deposits and lower lipid content in the liver. These results coincided with altered or disrupted circadian expression profiles of liver genes including those involved in lipid metabolism. In the present phenotypic study we intended to decipher, on a sex-specific basis, the role of ID2 in glucose metabolism and in the circadian regulation of activity, important components of energy balance. We find that Id2-/- mice exhibited altered daily and circadian rhythms of feeding and locomotor activity; activity profiles extended further into the late night/dark phase of the 24-hr cycle, despite mice showing reduced total locomotor activity. Also, male Id2-/- mice consumed a greater amount of food relative to body mass, and displayed less weight gain. Id2-/- females had smaller adipocytes, suggesting sexual-dimorphic programing of adipogenesis. We observed increased glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in male Id2-/- mice, which was exacerbated in older animals. FDG-PET analysis revealed increased glucose uptake by skeletal muscle and brown adipose tissue of male Id2-/- mice, suggesting increased glucose metabolism and thermogenesis in these tissues. Reductions in intramuscular triacylglycerol and diacylglycerol were detected in male Id2-/- mice, highlighting its possible mechanistic role in enhanced insulin sensitivity in these mice. Our findings indicate a role for ID2 as a regulator of glucose and lipid metabolism, and in the circadian control of feeding/locomotor behavior; and contribute to the understanding of the development of obesity and diabetes, particularly in shift work personnel among whom incidence of such metabolic disorders is elevated.
Effect of storage and LEO cycling on manufacturing technology IPV nickel-hydrogen cells

Yardney Manufacturing Technology (MANTECH) 50 A-hr space weight individual pressure vessel nickel-hydrogen cells were evaluated. This consisted of investigating: the effect of storage and charge/discharge cycling on cell performance. For the storage test the cells were precharged with hydrogen, by the manufacturer, to a pressure of 14.5 psia. After undergoing activation and acceptance tests, the cells were discharged at C/10 rate (5A) to 0.1 V or less. The terminals were then shorted. The cells were shipped to NASA Lewis Research Center where they were stored at room temperature in the shorted condition for 1 year. After storage, the acceptance tests were repeated at NASA Lewis. A comparison of test results indicate no significant degradation in electrical performance due to 1 year storage. For the cycle life test the regime was a 90 minute low earth orbit at deep depths of discharge (80 and 60 percent). At the 80 percent DOD the three cells failed on the average at cycle 741. Failure for this test was defined to occur when the cell voltage degraded to 1 V prior to completion of the 35 min discharge. The DOD was reduced to 60 percent. The cycle life test was continued.
Asking the right questions--physician-assisted suicide and emergency medical systems.

Keywords: suicide; physician-assisted suicide; emergency medical systems; ethics; patient autonomy; decision making; laws
The Reflective Part of Man: Javor Gardev's Bulgarian Shakespeares:

The paper offers an overview of the Shakespeare productions of the Bulgarian theatre director Javor Gardev. Starting with his first foray, an adaptation of King John (Bastard, 2001), through The Te...
EFFECTS OF TESTOSTERONE PROPIONATE ON THE MAMMARY GLANDS OF FEMALE ALBINO RATS1

IN PREVIOUS communications from this laboratory (I, 2) it was reported that the action of parenterally administered testosterone propionate on the ovaries of female rats varied according to the phase of the estrous cycle at which the first injection was given. When given during late diestrus the ovaries were small and contained many follicles in various stages of development but they lacked recent corporalutea. The uteri were enlarged and the endometria hyperplastic. The vaginae were mucified, and the mammae presented evidence of duct proliferation with a marked increase of fibrous tissue. There was, however, no evidence of acinar growth. Similar organ changes, with the exception of the ovaries, were found in castrates treated with testosterone (3). When the initial injection was given during late estrus the ovaries were distinctly enlarged, due to the presence of hypertrophied corpora lutea and follicles in various stages of development
Effects of Laser Surface Texturing on the Microstructure and Frictional Characteristics of Zirconia Surfaces Under Liquid and Solid Lubrication

The production of dimple patterns in surfaces by laser surface texturing (LST) has received considerable interest. The current research characterized the effects of LST on the near-surface microstructures in transformation-toughened zirconia (TTZ) and investigated how dimpling can affect reciprocating frictional behavior under both liquid and solid lubrication. Microstructural characterization included scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning acoustic microscopy (SAcM), and nanoindentation testing. Fine-scale micro-cracks were observed in both the rims and bottoms of dimple craters. Most of the laser-affected zone is composed of very fine grains with diameters 125∼150 nm, but no grain structure was observed nearest the rim edges. The distribution of residual stresses around the dimples, induced by LST, was revealed by SAcM. Nanoindentation tests of TTZ indicated no significant differences in hardness or elastic modulus between the material near the dimples and in the bulk. Counterface materials in the flat-on-flat reciprocating sliding tests included silicon nitride and a galling-resistant stainless steel. Friction tests were conducted under both liquid (mineral oil) and solid (fine graphite powder) lubrication. Dimpling did not show measurable improvement on frictional behavior under the applied test conditions, although they were supposed to function as lubricant reservoirs and debris traps.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Linking household income and work–family conflict: a moderated mediation study

Research on the work-family interface has not often explored the role of structural characteristics such as income in the associations among work stressors, work-family conflict and family stressors. The goal of this study was to examine household income as a moderator of the relations among these variables. Results from a nationally (US) representative sample of 1472 employed individuals who were married with children indicate that the relations between work-to-family interference and family strain were stronger for individuals with lower household incomes than for those with higher household incomes. Furthermore, family strain was more strongly associated with family-to-work interference for individuals in low-income households. Household income did not moderate other relations examined in the study. Potential explanations for these moderating effects are discussed, along with their implications for the generalizability of findings in the work-family literature across contexts.
Microwave SQUID multiplexers for low-temperature detectors

Abstract We report on the development of a SQUID multiplexer operated at microwave frequencies. This multiplexer can accommodate any detector that can be read out with SQUIDs, including transition-edge sensors, magnetic calorimeters, and superconductor–insulator–superconductor tunnel junction detectors. The total bandwidth, which is set by the HEMT amplifier, can be as high as 5 GHz, allowing the readout of 10 3 - 10 4 low-bandwidth detectors into one coaxial cable. Alternatively, in a low-Q circuit each SQUID can have a bandwidth as high as 100–200 MHz, allowing multiplexing of high-bandwidth sensors, such as optical TES photon detectors and antenna-coupled hot-electron TES bolometers. Each SQUID must be flux biased at a sensitive point on its response curve. We describe a multiplexed flux biasing scheme that makes it possible to flux bias a large array of SQUIDs with only one additional coaxial cable. We further present a hybrid “TDMA” multiplexer optimized for the high dynamic range and slew rate of fast X-ray calorimeters.
Classroom Testing Procedures, Test Anxiety, and Achievement.

Four groups (N = 116) were maintained in a 4-factor analysis of covariance design to determine if more frequent, graded unit examinations followed by test feedback facilitate achievement and allow students with high-measured test anxiety to perform better on final course examinations. The testing procedures studied consisted of the administration of 168 examination items as either three or six unit exams, grading or not grading the unit exams, and providing or not providing class feedback and discussion following the examinations. Analysis of performance on two posttest measures indicated that the subjects achieved more from frequent, graded unit tests followed by feedback; however, variations of these conditions did not appear to influence the performance of the students with high-measured test anxiety.
“Am I my genes?”: Questions of identity among individuals confronting genetic disease

Purpose: To explore many questions raised by genetics concerning personal identities that have not been fully investigated. Methods: We interviewed in depth, for 2 hours each, 64 individuals who had or were at risk for Huntington disease, breast cancer, or alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Results: These individuals struggled with several difficult issues of identity. They drew on a range of genotypes and phenotypes (e.g., family history alone; mutations, but no symptoms; or symptoms). They often felt that their predicament did not fit preexisting categories well (e.g., “sick,” “healthy,” “disabled,” “predisposed”), due in part to uncertainties involved (e.g., unclear prognoses, since mutations may not produce symptoms). Hence, individuals varied in how much genetics affected their identity, in what ways, and how negatively. Factors emerged related to disease, family history, and other sources of identity. These identities may, in turn, shape disclosure, coping, and other health decisions. Conclusions: Individuals struggle to construct a genetic identity. They view genetic information in highly subjective ways, varying widely in what aspects of genetic information they focus on and how. These data have important implications for education of providers (to assist patients with these issues), patients, and family members; and for research, to understand these issues more fully.
Structure of single-stranded nucleic acids in the presence of ribosomal protein S1.

Abstract We have developed a new method for mounting nucleic acids and nucleic acidprotein complexes for high-resolution electron microscopy, and have used it to characterize the interaction between ribosomal protein S1 and single-stranded nucleic acids. We find that SI unwinds most, but not all of the secondary structure present in MS2 RNA and oX174 viral DNA. The binding of S1 to DNA and RNA is not highly co-operative, and has a stoichiometry of one S1 per 10 to 15 nucleotides. We have not observed any tendency for S1 nucleic acid complexes to form aggregates in either 0·01 m -Na + or 0·1 m -Na + . An analogous protein isolated from the 30 S ribosomal subunit of Caulobacter crescentus is indistinguishable from Escherichia coli S1 in these studies. The mono- N -ethylmaleimide derivative of E. coli S1 will bind to both MS2 RNA and oX174 viral DNA with a stoichiometry of one N -ethylmaleimide-S1 per 10 to 15 nucleotides, but will not unwind the secondary structure of either of them.
The disjunction and related properties for constructive Zermelo-Fraenkel set theory

This paper proves that the disjunction property, the numerical existence property, Church’s rule, and several other metamathematical properties hold true for Constructive Zermelo-Fraenkel Set Theory, CZF, and also for the theory CZF augmented by the Regular Extension Axiom. As regards the proof technique, it features a self-validating semantics for CZF that combines realizability for extensional set theory and truth.
Behavior Analysts to the Front! A 15-Step Tutorial on Public Speaking

Mainstream prominence was Skinner’s vision for behavior analysis. Unfortunately, it remains elusive, even as we approach the 110th anniversary of his birth. It can be achieved, however, and there are many routes. One that seems overlooked in many (most?) behavior analytic training programs is what I call the front of the room. The front of the room is a very powerful locus for influencing people. Mastering it can turn a commoner into a king; a middling man into a mayor; or a group of disorganized, dispirited people into an energized force marching into battle. The most powerful members of our species had their most memorable moments at the front of the room. If so much is available there, why is mastery of it in such short supply, not just in behavior analysts but in the population at large? In this paper, I address why, argue that the primary reason can be overcome, and supply 15 behaviorally based steps to take in pursuit of front of the room mastery.
Sustained change blindness to incremental scene rotation: A dissociation between explicit change detection and visual memory

In a change detection paradigm, the global orientation of a natural scene was incrementally changed in 1° intervals. In Experiments 1 and 2, participants demonstrated sustained change blindness to incremental rotation, often coming to consider a significantly different scene viewpoint as an unchanged continuation of the original view. Experiment 3 showed that participants who failed to detect the incremental rotation nevertheless reliably detected a single-step rotation back to the initial view. Together, these results demonstrate an important dissociation between explicit change detection and visual memory. Following a change, visual memory is updated to reflect the changed state of the environment, even if the change was not detected.
Improvement in direct methanol fuel cell performance by treating the anode at high anodic potential

Abstract This work investigates the effect of a high anodic potential treatment protocol on the performance of a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). DMFC membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) with PtRu/C (Hi-spec 5000) anode catalyst are subjected to anodic treatment (AT) at 0.8 V vs. DHE using potentiostatic method. Despite causing a slight decrease in the electrochemical surface area (ECSA) of the anode, associated with ruthenium dissolution, AT results in significant improvement in DMFC performance in the ohmic and mass transfer regions and increases the maximum power density by ∼15%. Furthermore, AT improves the long-term DMFC stability by reducing the degradation of the anode catalyst. From XPS investigation, it is hypothesized that the improved performance of AT-treated MEAs is related to an improved interface between the catalyst and Nafion ionomer. Among potential explanations, this improvement may be caused by incorporation of the ionomer within the secondary pores of PtRu/C agglomerates, which generates a percolating network of ionomer between PtRu/C agglomerates in the catalyst layer. Furthermore, the decreased concentration of hydrophobic CF 2 groups may help to enhance the hydrophilicity of the catalyst layer, thereby increasing the accessibility of methanol and resulting in better performance in the high current density region.
Amine adducts of porphinato carbonylruthenium(II): studies of conformational effects and dynamics

Abstract The 1 H chemical shifts for 4-methylpyridine, imidazole, 2,5-dimethylimidazole, 2-undecylimidazole, pyrazole, 3,5-dimethylpyrazole, benzylamine, and α-methylbenzylamine bound to carbonylruthenium mesoporphyrin-IX-dimethyl ester or carbonylruthenium tetra- p -isopropylphenylporphyrin have been determined. The upfield shifts induced in the bound-nitrogen base resonances have been shown to arise principally from the magnetic anisotropy of the porphinato ligand. On this basis, models for calculating magnetic anisotropy in porphyrin systems have been tested and then applied to the determination of adduct geometry. These studies show that steric bulk of substituents ortho to the nitrogen binding determine the stability of various modes and control conformation in ligands. Furthermore, the results suggest adduct geometry and ligand-to-ring plane distances are relatively independent of porphyrin. Correlations between base structure and adduct stability were developed by measuring relative dissociation constants and first-order rate constants for dissociation. These measurements show a direct correlation between thermodynamic and kinetic stability and an inverse correlation between stability and increased steric bulk ortho to the donor atom.
A Method for Correcting the Relative Weight (Wr) Index for Seasonal Patterns in Relative Condition (Kn) with Length as Applied to Walleye in Wisconsin

Abstract We determined whether the relative weight (W r) model for walleye Sander vitreus was representative of populations in Wisconsin and if relative weight varied with length seasonally. We then developed standard condition (K n) models that correct for seasonal variation in body condition. We compiled data from 54,657 walleyes sampled during 640 surveys of 202 lakes in 30 Wisconsin counties. Weight–length relationships and mean relative weight varied more widely for Wisconsin populations than for North American populations overall. Weight–length relationships and mean relative weight varied significantly among seasons, with the highest slope (lowest intercept) and mean relative weight in spring, lowest slope (highest intercept) and mean relative weight in early summer, and intermediate slopes (and intercepts) and mean relative weights in late summer and autumn. Mean relative weight increased with length in spring, decreased with length in early summer, and did not change with length in late summer, a...
The relationship between boredom proneness and internal and external work values

Undergraduate students ( N = 111) completed the Boredom Proneness Scale (BPS) and the Survey of Work Values (SWV) as part of a study examining vocational preferences. The results indicated that individuals with high boredom proneness scores possessed significantly greater external work value scores, whereas those low in boredom proneness had significantly higher internal work values. The results are discussed in terms of their importance for career guidance, selection, and motivation strategies.
Fossil Holocene seaweed and attached calcareous polychaetes in an anoxic basin, Gulf of Mexico

DURING examination of the planktonic foraminiferal assemblages in a piston-core of black, anoxic sediments (Gyre, 77-G-13, Leg 1, 5-K) of probable early Holocene age from the Orca Basin, northern Gulf of Mexico, we discovered preserved, brown seaweed and calcareous polychaetes from a core depth of 985–1,000 cm. We know of no previous documented case of preserved seaweed in deep-sea sediments, especially with attached organisms, and we describe this material here.
Anesthetic care for the child with congenital central alveolar hypoventilation syndrome (Ondine's curse).

Abstract Idiopathic congenital central alveolar hypoventilation syndrome, otherwise known as Ondine's curse, is a rare neuropathologic syndrome characterized by an inadequate respiratory drive with hypoventilation and periods of prolonged apnea resulting in hypercarbia and hypoxemia. Although no definite pathologic abnormality has been identified to account for the disorder, it is thought to represent a primary defect related to altered function of central chemoreceptors resulting in defective control of minute ventilation. Associated problems related to neural crest cell migration, including neuroblastoma formation and Hirschsprung's disease, suggest that the primary defect is defective neural crest cell migration and function. Problems that may impact on perioperative care include the defective central control of ventilation and defective control of upper respiratory musculature, which may lead to upper airway obstruction. Although many patients will have previously undergone tracheostomy and chronic mechanical ventilation, problems in other organ systems can impact on perioperative care. Cardiovascular issues include the possible presence of cor pulmonale and autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Central nervous system issues include the frequent occurrence of seizures and mental retardation. The preoperative work-up, premedication, and the intraoperative/postoperative care and monitoring of these patients is reviewed.
Interactions of low density lipoprotein with rat mesangial cells

Hyperlipidemia may contribute to the pathogenesis of glomerular sclerosis. We therefore studied binding and uptake of low density lipoprotein (LDL) by cultured rat mesangial cells. In addition effects of LDL on PGE2 synthesis and cell proliferation were determined. At 4 degrees C mesangial cells bound [125I] LDL in a time- and concentration-dependent manner with half-maximal binding observed at 5 micrograms/ml of LDL protein. Binding was blocked by excess unlabeled LDL and by heparin. Uptake (binding plus internalization) of LDL at 37 degrees C markedly exceeded binding at 4 degrees C, continued to increase even with longer periods of incubation, and showed no saturability, consistent with uptake of LDL by mesangial cells. Further evidence for LDL uptake by mesangial cells was obtained by use of the fluorescent probe 1,1'-dioactadecyl-3,3,3', 3'-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate-labeled LDL (Dil-LDL). Incubation of mesangial cells with Dil-LDL at 37 degrees C showed positive fluorescence for all mesangial cells, indicating uptake of the Dil-LDL. LDL had a biphasic effect on mesangial cell proliferation as determined by [3H] thymidine incorporation. LDL at 10 micrograms/ml enhanced [3H] thymidine uptake modestly, but significantly, whereas a progressive and marked inhibition occurred at LDL concentration from 100 to 500 micrograms/ml. While LDL at 10 and 100 micrograms/ml significantly stimulated PGE2 production, inhibition of PGE2 by meclofenamate did not influence the effects of LDL on [3H] thymidine incorporation. We conclude that mesangial cells show specific binding and uptake of LDL and that high concentrations of LDL markedly decrease mesangial cell proliferation. These findings may pertain to the pathogenesis of glomerular lesions in hyperlipidemia of renal disease.
Medical malpractice as an epidemiological problem.

Abstract The notion that the tort liability system deters negligence in health care has been invoked to make the “business case for patient safety.” However, existing data on the relationship between hospital adverse events and malpractice claims typically are interpreted as evidence that the tort system does not deter negligence because of the poor fit between those who are negligently injured and those who sue. Using a familiar analogy from epidemiology—the problem of false positives in screening tests for rare diseases—and data from two large studies of medical injuries and malpractice claims in the United States, this paper presents an argument that the standard interpretation overlooks a complexity in the data. Although most malpractice claims do not actually involve a negligent injury, a patient who suffers a negligent injury is more than 20 times more likely, on average, to file a claim than a patient who does not. However, because malpractice claiming is a rare event with many false positives, for the average hospital or group practice, even substantial improvements in rates of negligent injury will not lead to a large reduction in claims rates. These findings suggest that the strength of the business case for patient safety depends on the perspective from which one views the data.
The clinical implication of changing unbound quinidine levels.

Abstract Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic aspects pertinent to the potential clinical application of unbound quinidine levels were studied. Following heparin administration during electrophysiologic testing in 10 patients receiving quinidine, there were significant increases in the mean (± SD) right ventricular effective refractory period (266 ± 24 versus 279 ± 23; p p p p p r = −0.71; p
Improving service restoration of power distribution systems through load curtailment of in-service customers

Summary form only given. Load curtailment programs including direct load control and demand response allow system operators to directly and/or indirectly reduce a portion of total customer demand. One system application which can be improved by implementation of load curtailment is service restoration. As such, this work presents a problem formulation, solution algorithm and simulation results for service restoration of power distribution systems incorporating load curtailment of in-service customers via direct load control. It is shown that the addition of load curtailment allows for one or more of the following: a reduction of the total number of switch operations required, an increase to the number of customers served, and/or an increase to the total amount of load restored. These improvements are demonstrated through simulation results from a 416 bus multi-phase distribution system.
Selective detection of ordered sodium signals via the central transition

Given the correlation between the concentrations of ordered 23Na and the onset of tissue disorders, the ability to select the signal from ordered 23Na over that of free 23Na is of particular importance and can greatly enhance the potential of 23Na-MRI as a diagnostic tool. Here, we describe a simple method that selectively detects the central transition of ordered sodium while minimizing the signal from free sodium. Our method relies upon the influence of the quadrupolar interaction on nutation frequencies and may also benefit solid-state imaging experiments. Both a liquid crystalline environment and a cartilage sample are used to demonstrate a clean separation between anisotropic and isotropic regions in the experiments.