cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fibrinogen-bearing protein genes in the snail Biomphalaria glabrata: characterization of two novel genes and expression studies during ontogenesis and trematode infection

All fibrinogen (FBG)-bearing proteins documented to date in the freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata, the intermediate host of the human blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni, possess the same molecular structure; one or two immunoglobin superfamily (IgSF) domains at the N-terminus and a FBG domain at the C-terminus (named as FBG-related protein (FREP)). Here we report two novel genes that encode FBG-bearing proteins from B. glabrata. Different from all known FREPs, the first gene encodes a protein (657 amino acids (aa)) composed of a long N-terminal region with no sequence homology to any known protein, a middle epidermal growth factor (EGF) repeat region and a C-terminal FBG domain, designated FBG-related molecule (FReM). Differential expression at 2 days post-exposure (dpe) to the trematode S. mansoni or Echinostoma paraensei was found in the S. mansoni susceptible M line and resistant BS-90 snail strains. The second gene is a new member of the FREP family, designated FREP14, which encodes a 399 aa putative secreted protein. FREP14 is different from known FREPs in that it is encoded by a single locus and is not upregulated in early or late stage S. mansoni exposure, but is upregulated in late stage E. paraensei infection. Furthermore, gene expression during the snail's ontogenesis and at a late stage of trematode infection (52 dpe) has been investigated in the two newly identified genes (FReM and FREP14) described in this paper and five representative members of known FREPs (FREPs 2, 3, 4, 12, and 13). A variety of expression patterns were observed, suggestive of functional diversity among the members of FBG-bearing proteins. Our findings further broaden our understanding of the diversity and function of the FBG-bearing protein encoded genes in B. glabrata.
Rapid analysis of opium alkaloids by ion-pair high performance liquid chromatography

A new procedure for the rapid analysis of four major opium alkaloids is described using ion-pair, reversedphase high performance liquid chromatography and recently developed radial compression column technology. The solvents were aqueous 10mM potassium perchlorate with 5.0mM n-butylamine (pH 3.0) and pure acetonitrile. A gradient was run for five minutes from 10% to 70% acetonitrile and held at that level for two minutes. Flow rates were 3 ml/min. Two column packing materials were compared with this solvent system: standard C-18 packing and a fully-end-capped C-18 material. Results obtained with the fully-end-capped C-18 packing and the two solvent ion-pair gradient showed elution times under six minutes, with greater sensitivity (<50 nanograms) than previous systems.
An iron-regulated sortase anchors a class of surface protein during Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis

Sortase (SrtA), an enzyme that anchors surface proteins to the cell wall of Gram-positive bacteria, cleaves sorting signals at the LPXTG motif. We have identified a second sortase (SrtB) in the Gram-positive pathogen Staphylococcus aureus that is required for anchoring of a surface protein with a NPQTN motif. Purified SrtB cleaves NPQTN-bearing peptides in vitro, and a srtB mutant is defective in the persistence of animal infections. srtB is part of an iron-regulated locus called iron-responsive surface determinants (isd), which also contains a ferrichrome transporter and surface proteins with NPQTN and LPXTG motifs. Cell wall-anchored surface proteins and the isd locus seem involved in a novel mechanism of iron acquisition that is important for bacterial pathogenesis.
Compensatory responses after unilateral ovariectomy in rabbits.

Compensatory ovarian and gonadotropic responses to unilateral ovariectomy (ULO) were examined in the rabbit doe, an induced ovulator. On Days 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 15 and 20 after ULO, ovaries from 3 hemiovariectomized does and 1 sham-hemiovariectomized doe were examined macro- and microscopically for number, size and signs of atresia of follicles. The number of surface follicles increased initially to 7 or 8 follicles 2 days after ULO, followed by an increase to 10 or more follicles by Day 15 (control ovaries had 5.7 ± 0.4 follicles). Total numbers of antral follicles and the proportion of follicles which were atretic did not vary relative to day after ULO. However, distributions of antral follicles in classes of 0.2-mm increments were significantly different between sham-ovariectomized and hemiovariecromized does after Day 2 due to shifts of follicles into larger size classes. Peripheral serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), but not luteinizing hormone (LFJ), increased temporarily during the 48 h after ULO. Follicular compensation after ULO in the doe entailed nonlinear increases in numbers of preovulatory follicles, due to increased growth within the antral population of follicles, probably the result of an acute surge of FSH. A period of more than 10 days was necessary to restore the number of preovulatory follicles after ULO. Exogenous human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) induced ovulation of recruited
Improved detection and quantitation of norovirus from water

Norovirus is associated commonly with human sewage and is responsible for numerous cases of waterborne and foodborne gastroenteritis every year. Assays using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) have been developed for norovirus, however, accurate detection and quantitation remain problematic owing to a lack of suitable positive controls. To improve enumeration of norovirus genomes from water, a synthetic norovirus genogroup II quantitation standard and competitive internal positive control were developed. The quantitation standard demonstrates identical amplification efficiency as wildtype norovirus and can be used as a viral surrogate in labs with restricted access to norovirus. The internal control quantifies sample inhibition, allowing for accurate quantitation of norovirus from complex environmental samples. Seawater samples spiked with sewage or bird guano were evaluated using the norovirus assay as part of a methods comparison study. Inhibition was detected in nine of 36 (25%) samples, two of which proved to be positive upon re-analysis. Results support the specificity of this assay for human-source (sewage) fecal contamination. Overall, use of this quantitation standard and internal control signify a great advance over traditional positive controls and suggest that molecular techniques for viral analysis could become standardized for routine water quality monitoring.
The Impact of Emotional Disturbances on the Arrest Trajectories of Youth as They Transition into Young Adulthood

This article identifies the arrest trajectories of youth from ages 12 through 24 years old and tests hypotheses derived from Moffitt’s developmental taxonomic theory of crime concerning the impact of various emotional disturbances on the specific trajectories of the youth involved. The study uses exclusively administrative data sets and includes a gender and racially diverse sample of 10,360 youth (30.7 % females) who were arrested at least once between ages 12 and 24 in the early 2000s. Latent class growth analysis was employed in order to identify distinct arrest trajectories of youth in the sample. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify diagnostic and other characteristics associated with membership in the specific trajectories predicted by Moffitt’s theory. Five trajectory classes were identified, 3 of which were consistent with taxonomic theory including high and classic adolescence limited trajectory classes and a “snared adolescence limited class” described more recently by Moffitt. The distribution of youth among the 5 classes was very different for those with and without emotional disturbances. Youth with emotional disturbances in their late adolescent years were more likely to fall into the high arrest trajectory class and much less likely to fall into the low arrest trajectory class. Compared to youth without an emotional disturbance, youth with psychotic disorders were more than twice as likely to fall into the high as into the low arrest trajectory class. Youth with disruptive behavior disorders were more than twice as likely to fall into the high and intermediate classes as into the low trajectory class. Anxiety and depressive disorders were not associated with significantly greater likelihood of falling into any one of the trajectory classes. Youth in the snared adolescence limited class were more likely than those in the classic adolescence limited class to be male, black versus white and in the foster care enrollment category lending some support to Moffitt’s conceptualization of this class as an adolescence limited class composed of youth who are snared by involvement in the criminal justice and or social services systems. Implications of these results for public policy and the study of adolescence are discussed.
Transition metal chelator TPEN counteracts phorbol ester-induced actin cytoskeletal disruption in C6 rat glioma cells without inhibiting activation or translocation of protein kinase C.

Phorbol ester–induced reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton was investigated in C6 rat glioma cells. Observations by fluorescence microscopy and photoelectron microscopy indicated that pretreatment with the transition metal chelator N,N,N',N'-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN) for 1–2 h at 50 μM reduced the sensitivity of the actin cytoskeleton to disruption by the subsequent addition of 200 nM phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). The protective effect of TPEN was eliminated by adding back Zn2+ prior to PMA addition, implicating chelation of metal ions as the mechanism of action of TPEN. C6 cells exposed to PMA experience potent activation of protein kinase C (PKC) and substantial redistribution of the kinase from a soluble to a particulate cellular fraction (translocation). TPEN pretreatment did not block PKC translocation in PMA-exposed cells. By two-dimensional gel analysis, TPEN also did not reduce, but rather slightly increased, the PMA-stimulated phosphorylation of the acidic 80 kDa endogenous PKC substrate, as well as two other proteins at 18 kDa and 50 kDa. In contrast, TPEN significantly suppressed phosphorylation of a 20 kDa protein, both in cells treated with TPEN only and in TPEN-pretreated PMA-exposed cells. The results indicate that the ability of TPEN to protect against PKC-mediated actin cytoskeletal disruption is not due to either a block of PKC translocation or to general inhibition of PKC activity. Rather, the action of TPEN is more selective and probably involves chelation of Zn2+ at a critical Zn2+ -dependent phosphorylation step downstream from the initial tumor promoter–-induced effects on PKC. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Laproscopic loop ileostomy for temporary fecal diversion

Loop ileostomy is an effective means of temporary fecal diversion. This type of stoma is easy to manage and closure does not require formal laparotomy. We describe a laparoscopic technique of loop ileostomy formation. The procedure can be done with ease and with less discomfort and morbidity when compared with open laparotomy.
The influence of preservice training and teaching experience upon attitude and concerns about teaching

Abstract The subjects for this study were prospective teachers at three stages of training and three groups of inservice teachers completing their first, third, and fifth years of teaching (N = 1193). Relationships between selected characteristics of these teachers and changes in their attitude and concerns about teaching over these six stages of development as predicted within development models of teacher evolution were investigated. Attitude toward teaching as a career was found to be positive and relatively stable over the six developmental stages, teaching task-type concerns increased, self-type concerns decreased, and impact upon pupil-type concerns remained stable and higher than the other two types of concerns. Additionally, teaching field and gender were found to be related to changes in attitude and concerns about teaching, and statistical interactions revealed dissimilar changes, when compared to other groups, in the transition from training to teaching for the male and secondary teachers; these changes were characterized as less positive attitude and concerns about teaching.
1072 ALTERED PATHOGENICITY OF ACYCLOVIR (ACV) RESISTANT HSV FROM AN IMMUNODEFICIENT CHILD

The frequency and clinical significance of drug-resistant herpes viruses occurring in clinical settings requires thorough investigation. We have studied over 100 HSV isolates from a variety of sources and have found one group, from a 15 month boy with adenosine deaminase deficient type of severe combined immunodeficiency, which was resistant to both ACV and IUDR. During a 6 week hospitalization he received topical ophthalmic, parenteral and oral ACV for treatment of herpetic keratitis and cutaneous lesions involving face, hands and perirectal areas. Early treatment courses resulted in dramatic clinical improvement but later recurrences were characterized by chronic lesions unresponsive to ACV despite serum levels up to 6 mcg/ml. After death from Pseudomonas sepsis and pneumonia, postmortem tissues, although HSV-positive, showed no evidence of viral cytopathic effect. A 100-fold decrease in sensitivity to ACV was noted between early and late isolates. Thymidine kinase activity was normal in sensitive but absent in resistant isolates. Reduced apparent pathogenicity in man was paralleled by a 100-1000-fold decrease of these isolates in their virulence (as determined by PFU/LD50 and PFU/MID50 ratios) in normal, hairless and nude mice by intracerebral and cutaneous innoculation. Cutaneous infection caused by the resistant virus was less severe or produced low-grade, chronic, lesions rather than acutely fatal infections. Antiviral resistance can occur in selected clinical situations but diminished sensitivity may be associated with diminished virulence.
Heat shock protein 60 and 70 expression is related to carotid plaque stability

Abstract Introduction: Heat Shock Proteins (HSP) are stress proteins expressed in times of cellular injury. We hypothesized that there would be expression of heat shock proteins 60 and 70 incited by endothelial damage in carotid plaque specimens. We also compared the level of HSP expression between symptomatic and asymptomatic plaques. Methods: Eighteen carotid plaque specimens from were obtained from 10 symptomatic and 8 asymptomatic patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. Internal carotid artery (ICA) from an autopsy specimen was used as a control. Plaques were fixed in formalin and immunostained for HSP 60 and 70 expression. An intensity staining index (ISI) was calculated via digital image analysis to quantify HSP expression. Statistical significance was determined using ANOVA and a student’s t-test with a 95% confidence interval. Results: HSP 70 expression was greatly enhanced in all carotid plaques (ISI = 70) compared with ICA control (ISI = 0.61). HSP 60 expression was also greater in carotid plaques (ISI = 68) compared with control (ISI = 48). HSP 60 and 70 expression was significantly greater in symptomatic versus asymptomatic patients. HSP 60 and 70 expression was higher in the necrotic core of the plaques compared with their fibrous tissue cap (p Conclusions: HSP 60 and 70 expression is increased in carotid plaques compared to ICA control. The increased expression of HSP 60 and 70 in asymptomatic plaques, preferentially located in the necrotic core, indicates that these stress proteins may play a role in the stabilization of carotid plaques.
Evaluation and measurement of the experimental gamma-ray peak broadenings and recovery times in a gain stabilized system

Abstract Peak broadenings induced by gain wander in a gain stabilized system were measured and found to approximate values determined from prediction techniques and a system simulation. An equation is derived for the recovery time of the system; its predictions are validated by experimental measurements.
Learning through Building: Constructing Knowledge of Design

ABSTRACT Build It Up! is an engaging activity that integrates science with mathematics through a process that encourages problem-solving, principles of design, creativity, and developing a sense of one's community. This activity, aimed at third- and fourth-grade students, allows students to use manipulatives to design, construct, and test buildings they develop. It also provides students with opportunities to collaborate with their peers and reflect on their understanding of science process skills and principles of design.
PERIODIC DISTURBANCE ACCOMMODATING CONTROL FOR SPEED REGULATION OF WIND TURBINES

Performance of a model-based periodic gain controller is presented using Disturbance Accommodating Control (DAC) techniques to estimate fluctuating wind disturbances. Operation is restricted to speed regulation using Independent Blade pitch Control (IBC) and by measuring only rotor angle and speed. The modeled turbine is a free-yaw, two-bladed, teetered rotor machine with simple blade and tower flexibility — 6 discrete degrees of freedom. A comparison is made to a time-invariant DAC controller, constructed by various approaches. Results indicate that the two controllers perform nearly identically, despite the inherent periodic dynamics in the system. The best time-invariant state estimator model was designed by freezing the periodic plant at a specified rotor azimuth position.Copyright © 2001 by The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc. and ASME
Attitudes, Motives, and Demographic Predictors of Volunteer Commitment and Service Duration

This article reports the findings of a study of 147 volunteers at a midwestern crisis and information telephone service. It was hypothesized that demographic and motivational variables may be more predictive than attitudes toward their work of volunteer commitment and tenure. Discriminant and multiple regression analyses were used to test the strength of attitudes, motivations such as need for a job or training, and demographic variables. Education, gender, viewing volunteer work as having value and desire to learn a new skill were significant discriminators between levels of involvement. But aspects of the volunteer experience, along with education played a more important role in predicting service duration.
A MODEL TO ASSESS COST AND FUEL SAVINGS FROM RIDE SHARING

Abstract A model based on geometric probability concepts is developed to assess the performance of carpooling and vanpooling strategies. Fuel consumption and operating cost issues are treated in the paper, and the model can be extended to treat travel time and air quality issues also. It is shown that simple calculations of the fuel saved through carpool programs can overstate the savings by a factor of two. The operating costs of vanpools and carpools are also compared.
Magnetic effects on the ultrasonic velocity and attenuation in magnetic fluids

Abstract Ultrasonic propagation in magnetic fluids under the influence of external magnetic field has been studied. The effects of magnetic history, reversal of magnetic field and dilution of the fluid have also been measured.
Autonomic control and innervation of the atrioventricular junctional pacemaker.

Background The main physiologic function of the AV junction is control of timing between atrial and ventricular excitation. However, under pathologic conditions, the AV junction may become the pacemaker of the heart. Unlike the well-characterized sinoatrial node (SAN), autonomic control of the AV junctional pacemaker has not been studied. Objective The purpose of this study was to characterize the autonomic control and innervation of the AV junctional pacemaker. Methods The response of rabbit AV junctional pacemaker to autonomic stimulation was investigated using optical mapping, autonomic modulation via subthreshold stimulation (n = 12), and quantitative immunohistochemistry (n = 5), and the density of parasympathetic and sympathetic innervation in optically mapped preparations was quantified. Results Subthreshold stimulation applied adjacent to the conduction system in the triangle of Koch autonomically modulates the junctional rate, and parasympathetic and sympathetic components can be separated with atropine and the β-blocker nadolol. Subthreshold stimulation increased the rate maximally to 2.1 ± 0.4 times when applied with atropine. Unlike the SAN pacemaker, which shifts significantly in response to autonomic stimulation, the AV junctional pacemaker remains stationary (most often in the inferior nodal extension), moving in only 5% of subthreshold stimulation trials. Staining with tyrosine hydroxylase and choline acetyltransferase revealed heterogeneous innervation within the AV junction. Conclusion AV junctional rhythm can be autonomically modulated with subthreshold stimulation to produce junctional rates of 145 ± 16 bpm (cycle length 412 ± 29 ms), similar to sinus rates in rabbit. Unlike the SAN, the anatomic location of the AV junctional pacemaker is stable during autonomic modulation.
Women’s sun protection cognitions in response to UV photography: the role of age, cognition, and affect

This study examined the impact of ultraviolet (UV) photography, cognition versus affect, and age on women’s sun-related cognitions and a proxy measure of sun protection behavior. Participants (N = 114) were recruited via public advertisements and came to the lab to view a photo showing their UV damage. In addition, some participants received instructions to focus on either their thoughts (cognition) or feelings (affect) about their photograph before completing the survey. Women in the affect condition reported the lowest perceived vulnerability to skin cancer and highest absent/exempt beliefs (beliefs that one is unlikely to develop skin cancer if she hasn’t already). Condition by age interactions showed that, among those in the cognition and control (no instructions) conditions, older women reported higher perceived vulnerability and lower absent/exempt beliefs, and took more sunscreen than younger women. However, older women reported higher absent/exempt beliefs and higher sun-risk willingness than younger women in the affect condition.
Toxicological evaluation of sicklepod and black nightshade seeds in short-term feeding studies in rats.

Abstract Nutritionally complete diets containing sicklepod or black nightshade seed at 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32% were fed to groups of three to five male Sprague-Dawley rats in a series of short-term (8–9 days) toxicity studies. Gross clinical observations, body weights and feed and water intake data were recorded. Clinical chemistry analyses, haematology, histology and bone-marrow evaluation for evidence of clastogenic effects were performed. In addition, groups of five female rats were fed sicklepod seed at the same dosages to compare effects on body weight and feed and water consumption. For sicklepod, all of the animals fed diet containing 32% seed and one (female) fed diet containing 16% seed died by day 8. Body-weight gain and feed and water consumption were decreased with increasing doses of sicklepod seed. Other effects of sicklepod seed included: testicular hypospermia at dosages of 8% or greater; and bone-marrow depletion, reduced numbers of polychromatic erythrocytes in the bone marrow, increased neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio, and red nasal discharge at 16%. Black nightshade seed was relatively non-toxic compared with the sicklepod. The principal adverse effects of black nightshade were decreased body-weight gain and feed consumption, which occurred during the first 3 days of the study in animals fed 32% seed.
Is systemic reform in education morally justifiable

Systemic education reform calls for state imposition of uniform standards for student performance, the curriculum, and student opportunities to learn that curriculum, coupled with the alignment of basic state accountability, teacher education, and financing policies and expanded school decision-making authority. Proponents argue that systemic reform will have the effect of enhancing overall economic growth and equalizing opportunities for the most disadvantaged. Analysis of the first claim suggests that the inherent tension between employment-oriented outcome standards and discipline-oriented curriculum frameworks and the uniform application of such standards to all schools may undermine economic growth. Moreover, systemic reform appears more likely to transform current social inequalities than to eliminate them.
An Additional Algorithm for a System of Coupled Algebraic Matrix Riccati Equations

An iterative computational algorithm is presented for solving a system of coupled matrix Riccati equations based on the sign of a matrix.
Properties of a stack of thick nuclear emulsions processed without glass backing

The routine for the processing of a stack consisting of 117 K-5 pellicles 15 cm×20 cm×1200 μm in size is described in detail. Measurements of the lateral shrinkage of the processed pellicles indicate absence of irregular deformations. A multiple scattering calibration on K− tracks contained in the stack (715 MeV/c momentum) yields, without corrections, an accuratepβ value in excellent agreement with the knownpβ of the beam. Blob countings on beam tracks show a high degree of uniformity of development throughout the entire depth of the pellicles, a high plateau blob density and good discriminating properties of the emulsion. It is concluded that the qualities of free-processed 1200 μm pellicles are, to all effects, equivalent to those of standard glass-backed emulsions. This enables one to take full advantage, otherwise generally precluded, of the use of such thick pellicles.
Interrater reliability of grading strength of evidence varies with the complexity of the evidence in systematic reviews

Abstract Objectives To examine consistency (interrater reliability) of applying guidance for grading strength of evidence in systematic reviews for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Evidence-based Practice Center program. Study Design and Setting Using data from two systematic reviews, authors tested the main components of the approach: (1) scoring evidence on the four required domains (risk of bias, consistency, directness, and precision) separately for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies and (2) developing an overall strength of evidence grade, given the scores for each of these domains. Results Conclusions about overall strength of evidence reached by experienced systematic reviewers based on the same evidence can differ greatly, especially for complex bodies of evidence. Current instructions may be sufficient for straightforward quantitative evaluations that use meta-analysis for summarizing RCT findings. In contrast, agreement suffered when evaluations did not lend themselves to meta-analysis and reviewers needed to rely on their own qualitative judgment. Three areas raised particular concern: (1) evidence from a combination of RCTs and observational studies, (2) outcomes with differing measurement, and (3) evidence that appeared to show no differences in outcomes. Conclusion Interrater reliability was highly variable for scoring strength of evidence domains and combining scores to reach overall strength of evidence grades. Future research can help in establishing improved methods for evaluating these complex bodies of evidence.
ON THE NUMBER AND NATURE OF ANTIGEN-SENSITIVE LYMPHOCYTES IN THE BLOOD OF DELAYED-HYPERSENSITIVE HUMAN DONORS

The virus plaque assay has been successfully employed to enumerate antigen-sensitive cells in the peripheral blood lymphocyte populations of tuberculin-hypersensitive human donors. The method is based on the finding that, while resting lymphocytes are unable to produce a variety of viruses upon infection, lymphocytes activated by specific antigens become capable of virus replication. The average number of antigen-sensitive cells detected in cell populations from donors reacting to first test strength or intermediate test strength tuberculin was approximately 3.6/1000 lymphocytes, and the averages for both groups were similar. Studies on the kinetics of appearance of these virus plaque-forming cells and on the effects of the mitotic inhibitor, vinblastine, indicate that the activation of these antigen-sensitive cells is a linear process and that the cells must be nondividing cells during this process. These qualities contrast markedly with those described for the mitogenic response and the antibody-producing cells which require cell division and increase exponentially. On the basis of these experiments it is suggested that the antigen-sensitive cell measured in the virus plaque assay is the effector cell in delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions and, in addition, may be one of the cells critically involved in antibody formation.
Toluene degradation products in simulated atmospheric conditions

Atmospheric hydrocarbons have an important influence on the chemistry of the polluted lower atmosphere. Aromatic hydrocarbons or benzene derivatives comprise about 25–40% of gasoline in the US1 and they are widely employed as solvents. Toluene is the most commonly used aromatic hydrocarbon and is often the most abundant of all non-methane hydrocarbons in urban atmospheres. Typical urban toluene concentrations range from 1 to 50 p.p.b. (parts per 109)2,3 and clean-air concentrations up to 0.4 p.p.b. have been reported4. The aromatic hydrocarbons are destroyed by reaction with atmospheric hydroxyl radical (HO) and toluene remains in the atmosphere for about 50 daylight hours before reacting. Despite extensive study, toluene's reaction products are poorly understood5. Many reaction products have been identified, but most of these are ring-addition or side-chain oxidation products which retain the aromatic character of toluene. We have conducted a thorough study of toluene's oxidation products in simulated atmospheric conditions and present here an account of the products found and outline their probable formation and destruction mechanisms.
Effects of Federal policies on gasoline consumption

Abstract Utilizing theory and econometric evidence presented within, this paper provides rough quantitative estimates of the impacts on passenger car gasoline consumption of several Federal policies. Three distinct time periods are distinguished: pre-embargo, post-embargo but before new car efficiencies standards, and post-standards. In the pre-embargo period the net effect was to reduce gasoline consumption, while for four years after the embargo, policies tended to encourage consumption. The new car average fuel efficiency standards, first effective in 1978, can be expected to greatly influence passenger car gasoline consumption by forcing (possibly uneconomically large) increases in fleet efficiency. With these standards in operation, other policies will have little or no incremental effect on new car efficiency but can work only through influencing vehicle miles: the new car efficiency response to such programs will have been preempted by the standards. For the post-standards era, the net impact of Federal programs will be a reduction in gasoline consumption and a decrease in price elasticity of passenger car gasoline demand.
Experimental investigation of acoustic band structures in tetragonal periodic particulate composite structures

Abstract Transmission of a longitudinal elastic wave through periodic particulate composites, consisting of heavy spherical inclusions in a tetragonal arrangement in an elastic matrix, was measured experimentally. Several band gaps were identified, each having an associated jump in the phase velocity spectrum, near two sets of frequencies: frequencies at which the rigid body (dipole) resonance of particles are enhanced through shear wave interaction within a layer; and frequencies determined by the inter-layer spacing. An approximate theory is developed which shows good correlation with experimental results.
The structure, function and regulation of the nodulin 26-like intrinsic protein family of plant aquaglyceroporins.

The nodulin 26-like intrinsic protein family is a group of highly conserved multifunctional major intrinsic proteins that are unique to plants, and which transport a variety of uncharged solutes ranging from water to ammonia to glycerol. Based on structure–function studies, the NIP family can be subdivided into two subgroups (I and II) based on the identity of the amino acids in the selectivity-determining filter (ar/R region) of the transport pore. Both subgroups appear to contain multifunctional transporters with low to no water permeability and the ability to flux multiple uncharged solutes of varying sizes depending upon the composition of the residues of the ar/R filter. NIPs are subject to posttranslational phosphorylation by calcium-dependent protein kinases. In the case of the family archetype, soybean nodulin 26, phosphorylation has been shown to stimulate its transport activity and to be regulated in response to developmental as well as environmental cues, including osmotic stresses. NIPs tend to be expressed at low levels in the plant compared to other MIPs, and several exhibit cell or tissue specific expression that is subject to spatial and temporal regulation during development.
Endogenous nitric oxide protects against platelet aggregation and cyclic flow variations in stenosed and endothelium-injured arteries.

BACKGROUNDThis study was designed to test the hypothesis that endogenously produced nitric oxide protects against platelet aggregation and cyclic flow variations in stenosed and endothelium-injured...
Current role of radiation therapy for multiple myeloma.

BACKGROUND: Radiation therapy (RT) is a treatment modality traditionally used in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), but little is known regarding the role and effectiveness of RT in the era of novel agents, i.e, immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and proteasome inhibitors (PIs). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed data from 449 consecutive MM patients seen at our institute in 2010-12 to assess indications for RT as well as its effectiveness. Pain response was scored similarly to RTOG 0631 and used the numerical rating pain scale (NRPS). RESULTS: Among 442 evaluable patients, 149 (34%) patients and 262 sites received RT. The most common indication for RT was palliation of bone pain (n=109, 42%), followed by prevention/treatment of pathological fractures (n=73, 28%), spinal cord compression (n=26, 10%), and involvement of vital organs/extramedullary disease (n=25, 10%). Of the 55 patients evaluable for pain relief, complete and partial responses were obtained in 76.4% and 7.2% respectively. Prior RT did not significantly decrease the median number of peripheral blood stem cells collected for autologous transplant, even when prior RT was given to both the spine and pelvis. Inadequacy of stem cell collection for autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) was not significantly different and it occurred in 9% and 15% of patients receiving no RT and spine/pelvic RT, respectively. None of the 3 cases of therapy-induced AML/MDS occurred in the RT group. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the introduction of novel effective agents in the treatment of MM, RT remains a major therapeutic component for the management in 34% of patients, and it effectively provides pain relief while not interfering with successful peripheral blood stem cell collection for ASCT.
The effect of parenteral nutrition on biliary calcium and bilirubin

Recent studies have suggested that patients maintained on prolonged total parenteral nutrition (TPN) are at increased risk for gallstone formation. Animal and human data suggest that TPN causes calcium bilirubinate sludge and pigment gallstones. However, the effect of TPN on bile bilirubin and calcium concentrations has not previously been investigated. We, therefore, tested the hypothesis that TPN alters biliary bilirubin and calcium. Eight adult male prairie dogs received TPN (dextrose 15%, FreAmine III 4.25%, Intralipid 10%, insulin 25 U, electrolytes, and vitamins) at a rate of 80 cc/kg/day for 10 days. Eight additional animals maintained on a trace cholesterol diet served as controls. Gallbladder and hepatic bile samples were assayed for bilirubin and calcium. Cholesterol saturation index (CSI) and Rsa, a measure of gallbladder stasis, were also calculated. Calcium bilirubinate crystals were seen in gallbladder bile or wall scrapings of 7 of 8 TPN animals but in none of the controls (P less than 0.001). Animals that received TPN had bilirubin levels that were significantly higher in gallbladder bile (24.8 +/- 7.0 vs 5.1 +/- 0.9, P less than 0.05). Similarly, TPN animals had calcium levels that were significantly higher in gallbladder (30.0 +/- 3.6 vs 13.9 +/- 2.1, P less than 0.005) as well as hepatic (10.5 +/- 0.6 vs 7.4 +/- 0.6, P less than 0.005) bile. The Rsa values were also significantly lower (P less than 0.01) in TPN animals (0.57 +/- 0.07 vs 1.06 +/- 0.14). CSI, serum bilirubin, serum calcium, hematocrit, and reticulocyte counts did not differ between groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The neural basis of mental imagery

Visual mental imagery, or 'seeing with the mind's eye', has been the subject of considerable controversy in cognitive science. At issue is whether images are fundamentally different from verbal thoughts, whether they share underlying mechanisms with visual perception, and whether information in images is represented in a spatial (i.e. map-like) format. Research on the neural systems underlying imagery brings a new source of evidence to bear on these cognitive science controversies, as well as on the cerebral localization of imagery processes. Emerging from this work is the view that mental imagery involves the efferent activation of visual areas in prestriate occipital cortex, parietal and temporal cortex, and that these areas represent the same kinds of specialized visual information in imagery as they do in perception. In addition, different components of imagery processing appear to be differentially lateralized, with the generation of mental images from memory depending primarily upon structures in the posterior left hemisphere, and the rotation of mental images depending primarily upon structures in the posterior right hemisphere.
Sniffing and fixed-ratio behavior for sucrose and brain stimulation reward in the rat.

Abstract The relation between inspiration-rate and instrumental behavior in rats was examined using a fixed-ratio ten schedule of either sucrose or brain stimulation reinforcement. In the first experiment, rats demonstrated orderly goal gradients in their inspiration rates while pressing for sucrose. This result was replicated in a second experiment in which rats pressed on the fixed-ratio schedule for brain stimulation reinforcement. In both experiments, increasing inspiration rates were associated with relatively constant or decreasing pressing rates. The relevance of these results to classical or contiguity conditioning interpretations of instrumental or motivated behavior was briefly discussed.
Effects of summer cover crop management on wireworm (Coleoptera: Elateridae) abundance and damage to potato.

The effects of planting date and mowing interval of the summer cover crop consisting of a sorghum-sudangrass hybrid on the abundance of wireworms, Melanotus communis (Gyllenhal), Conoderus rudis (Brown), C. amplicollis (Gyllenhal), and C. falli Lane, and subsequent damage to tubers in the following potato crop were investigated during two consecutive growing seasonsin southern Florida. Eight summer cover crop management programs were evaluated: cover crop planted early (within 38 d after potato harvest) and late (75-89 d after harvest) and mowed at 3-, 6-, or 9-wk intervals; cover crop planted early and not mowed (standard summer management program); and mechanical fallow. In both years, planting date affected wireworm abundance and damage to potato. In the 1st yr, wireworm larvae were 14.2–33.7 and 19–45 times more abundant in plots planted with early cover crop than in those planted with late cover crop and in those fallowed, respectively. Wireworms were 1.3-2.0 times more abundant in plots planted with late cover crop than in plots mechanically fallowed. Similar results were found during the 2nd yr. Mowing interval did not consistently affect wireworm abundance. Wireworm damage to potato tubers was affected by planting date. Percentages of wireworm injury and damage to tubers were 6.6-9.6 and 1.8-6.7 times greater in potatoes that followed early-planted cover crops than in those that followed late-planted cover crops or mechanical fallow in the firstand second year, respectively. Crop loss due to wireworms was $1,808–$2,084 and $1,298–$3,386 per hectare higher in plots planted with early cover crop than in those planted with late cover crop in the firstand second year, respectively. Thus, delaying the planting date of the summer cover crop resulted in a reduction in wireworm abundance and associated crop loss in the following potato crop.
The Overarching Effects of Ethical Reputation Regardless of CSR Cause Fit and Information Source

Our experiment examines how corporate prior ethical reputation, CSR cause fit, and information source interact with each other; and how this interaction influences consumers’ evaluations of the company. Meanwhile, our study tests the mediating effect of inferred CSR motives on consumer responses to CSR initiatives. Results show that corporate prior ethical reputation affects consumers’ company evaluations regardless of CSR cause fit and information source, and that this effect is partially mediated by inferred CSR motives. Our study contributes to CSR scholarship in the domain of strategic communication. Through adopting an interdisciplinary approach advocated by strategic communication researchers, it carries current piecewise understanding of consumer responses to CSR a step forward to a holistic framework. Practitioners will find its results useful in selecting and communicating CSR activities based on their firms’ reputation characteristics.
Optimization of a femtosecond Ti:Sapphire amplifier using an acousto-optic programmable dispersive filter and a genetic algorithm

The temporal output of a Ti:Sapphire laser system has been optimized using an acousto-optic programmable dispersive filter and a genetic algorithm. In-situ recording the evolution of spectral phase, amplitude and temporal pulse profile for each iteration of the algorithm using SPIDER shows that we are able to lock the spectral phase of the laser pulse within a narrow margin. By using the second harmonic of the CPA laser as feedback for the genetic algorithm, it has been demonstrated that severe mismatch between the compressor and stretcher can be compensated for in a short period of time.
Work output of the two-way shape memory effect in Ti50.5Ni24.5Pd25 high-temperature shape memory alloy

A significant two-way shape memory effect (TWSME) was demonstrated, for the first time, in a TiNiPd high-temperature shape memory alloy (SMA) with TWSM strains as high as 2.6%. This TWSME was able to perform mechanical work, with a maximum work output of 0.12 J g−1, well above the levels obtained from conventional SMAs. Microstructural changes obtained through severe plastic deformation processing did not improve the TWSME stability and resulted in a reduction of strain capability and work output.
SOCIAL WORK IN SCHOOLS: PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE

Linda Openshaw (2008). New York: Guilford Press (318 pp., $38.00, hardcover, ISBN# 978‐1‐59385‐578‐9). Social Work in Schools is a comprehensive text that addresses various functions of school soci...
Gene therapy in human cancer: report of human clinical trials.

(2000). Gene Therapy in Human Cancer: Report of Human Clinical Trials. Cancer Investigation: Vol. 18, No. 8, pp. 740-746.
An adaptive deadzone technique with a burst alleviation example

Elements of recursive-least-squares estimation and gradient-least-squares estimation are combined to produce an estimator with an adaptive deadzone. The estimate adjustment shuts off when the error residual is within the deadzone, and the deadzone adapts to the apparent magnitude of the nonparametric uncertainty. Simulation results show successful prevention of bursting without prior knowledge of the nonparametric uncertainty. >
Forming a women's computer science support group

It has been demonstrated that an undergraduate women's computer science support group can provide significant benefits to female CS students. It can be difficult for students to establish such a group without institutional support. We successfully established a thriving, self-sustaining support group with a modest initial outlay of time and money. This program serves as a model and template to help other small to mid-sized undergraduate departments accomplish the same.
Influence of molecular weight on enthalpy relaxation and fragility of amorphous carbohydrates

Abstract Enthalpy relaxation and fragility of selected carbohydrates were correlated with their molecular weight. Anhydrous glucose and its oligomers (i.e. maltose and maltotriose) were selected to represent amorphous carbohydrates with increasing molecular weight. The enthalpy relaxation behavior of glucose, maltose and maltotriose was determined at 5 °C below their respective glass transition temperatures using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The non-exponential behavior of enthalpy relaxation was fitted with the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts (KWW) equation. The mean relaxation time constants ( τ ) for glucose, maltose and maltotriose at ( T g − 5) were 16.9, 38.4 and 128.6 h, respectively. The fragility indices ( m ) of glucose, maltose and maltotriose, determined using the DSC glass transition width approach, were 105, 88.1 and 97.6, respectively. The glass transition temperature and mean enthalpy relaxation time increased with increasing molecular weight for the selected carbohydrates studied herein. The greater glass transition temperature and enthalpy relaxation time of maltotriose are attributed to the decreased specific volume, segmental mobility and increased entanglements resulting from its higher molecular weight. Maltotriose may be preferred as an encapsulant or food ingredient to reduce structural relaxation in food formulations during storage.
Dynamic response of the hand-arm system to a sinusoidal input

Abstract The mechanical impedance measuring technique was used to obtain data necessary to determine the vibration characteristics of the human hand. From this data, by means of a standard systems identification method, the values of the masses, springs and dampers were derived for an equivalent mass-spring-damper system which simulates the dynamic response of the hand. The influence of grip tightness, hand pressure upon the tool handle and arm position on the vibration response of the hand were examined. For normal arm positions used for operating vibrating power tools, the arm position had little influence upon the vibration response of the hand. However, grip tightness and hand pressure upon the tool handle influenced the vibration response of the hand, especially above a forcing frequency of 60 Hz. In the frequency range studied (20–500 Hz) for a specified arm position, grip tightness and handle pressure, the hand-arm system can be modeled as a six degree of freedom system, two degrees of freedom in each of the principle orthogonal directions. With proper restrictions, the hand was modeled as a three degree-of-freedom system, one degree of freedom in each direction. For a specified arm position, grip tightness and hand pressure on the tool handle, the hand response to a sinusoidal input was similar to that of a linear system. The hand impedances were independent of the amplitude of force input to the hand. The results of this investigation yielded information necessary for determining meaningful hand vibration limit standards. To establish acceptable standards, it is necessary to monitor the vibration limit levels as a function of forcing frequency, the tightness of grip and the pressure of the hand on the tool handle. For, even though the vibration levels may decrease with a tighter grip or firmer hand pressure, the amplitude of the force transmitted through the hand may increase, resulting in an increased probability for injury.