cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Changes in Various Antioxidant Levels in Human Seminal Plasma Related to Immunoinfertility

The present study was designed (1) to determine levels of antioxidant micronutrients in human seminal plasma, and (2) to evaluate the association between the concentrations of these antioxidants and the antisperm antibody titers in immunoinfertile men. To investigate this, the seminal plasma concentrations of antioxidant β-carotene, lycopene, retinol, and a-tocopherol were measured by high-pressure liquid chromatography in 37 men (22 fertile and 15 immunoinfertile), aged 27 to 35 years. The SIT (sperm-immobilization technique), TAT (tray-agglutination technique), and IBT (indirect immunobead test) were used to evaluate the antisperm antibody titers. The levels of three antioxidants, namely, β-carotene, lycopene, and retinol, were significantly (p =. 01) decreased and the concentration of α-tocopherol was significantly (p =. 002) increased in seminal plasma of immunoinfertile men as compared to the levels in fertile men. There was a significant linear correlation between the antisperm antibody titer and p-...
A confirmation that relational organization facilitates memory

Epstein, Rock, & Zuckerman (1960) demonstrated that Ss remembered picture paired associates presented in a relational scene better than pictures presented side by side. Their interpretation of the result was that relational organization facilitated memory. A confounding variable, however, was physical distance. That is, the pictures were physically farther apart in the side-by-side condition than in the relational condition. The present experiment independently manipulates the relational and distance variables. The results support the Epstein et al interpretation.
Prophage insertion sites.

Insertion of viral DNA into host chromosomes is an ancient process essential for propagation in the proviral form. Many present-day bacteriophages insert at specific sites on the host chromosome. Insertion by two coliphage families (lambdoid and P4-like) is compared. For both families, insertion sites frequently lie within tRNA genes. The lambdoid phages insert at anticodon loops, whereas the p4-like phages insert in the TψC loops downstream from them. The association of both groups with tRNA genes suggests that the primordial insertion site of both groups may have been within a tRNA gene. The integrase proteins used in phage insertion may have originated at that stage, with subsequent diversification of specificity.
Analyzing charged particle beams using lie transform perturbation theory

This paper briefly reviews the use of Lie transform perturbation theory applied to the dynamics of charged particle beams. Several details not provided here can be found in [1] and [2]. The work analyzes influences due to nonlinear components in external focusing of beams, a regime where the Courant-Snyder invariants are broken [3] for single particle dynamics. The Lie transform analysis is also used to analyze beams with space charge effects, which satisfy the Vlasov -Poisson system of equations. Equilibrium distributions may be obtained even in the nonlinear focusing regime, where simple solution such as the Kapchinskij-Vladimirskij [4] are no longer valid. The work utilizes results that were obtained earlier as part of the research activities of Prof. Allan Kaufman and members of his group.
Sealing ability of intermediate restorations and cavity design used in endodontics

Temporary filling materials are used in endodontics to prevent contamination of the root canal system during intertreatment visits. Recently, a new composition resin (TERM) has been introduced as an interim restoration in endodontics. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the efficacy of this resin as an interim restoration and possible effect of access cavity design with respect to its sealing ability compared with other temporary restorative materials. Sixty human teeth were divided into two categories, and two types of access cavities were prepared, namely tapered access with walls divergent toward the occlusal surface and straight access with parallel walls. The prepared teeth from each category were divided into three subgroups of ten each to receive Cavit (group I), IRM (group II), or TERM (group III). After the fillings were placed, the teeth were transferred into a humidor where they stayed for 24 hours. The teeth were then thermocycled. Each group was thermocycled for 2 hours at 1 minute intervals at 60 degrees C and 4 degrees C. Then the teeth were sealed with a compound and coated with two layers of clear varnish, with the exception of cavity margins. Each occlusal surface was immersed in a vial containing silver nitrate. The teeth were sectioned longitudinally, and the degree of dye penetration was evaluated under a dissection microscope according to set criteria. Our findings demonstrated that design of cavity preparation was not a functional parameter in leakage pattern. Results indicated that Cavit had the best sealing ability whereas IRM showed the maximum dye penetration.
The Post-Offering Price Performance of Closed-End Funds

This study documents the price behavior of closed-end funds after an initial public offering. The comparison of aftermarket price performance of closed-end funds with a control sample of similar size equity IPOs indicates that closed-end funds, on average, underperform other initial public offerings. IPOs of U.S. stock and foreign stock closed-end funds experience significant losses in value. An examination of institutional holdings of IPOs of closed-end funds indicates that individual investors are most affected by the substantial decline.
Computer based data acquisition in the undergraduate lab

Abstract This paper describes a Commodore 64 based data acquisition system used in the undergraduate laboratory at Georgia Tech. Special emphasis is placed on the design of an A/D Converter Board that consists of a Texas Instruments TLC 272 operational amplifier and the Analog Devices AD670 analog-to-digital converter. The AD670 is an 8-bit successive approximation converter capable of one million conversions per second. The A/D Converter Board has four programmable input ranges and is controlled through a machine language routine accessible to the user via a reserved memory buffer. Simons' BASIC is used by the students for all other programming tasks. The measurement of the viscosity of an unknown single-weight motor oil as a function of temperature is used to illustrate the capability of the data acquisition system. The viscosity is monitored through the A/D Converter Board while temperature is measured with a thermistor connected through the Commodore 64 game port.
Longitudinal Effect of Pressure Drop on the Intima-Media Thickening of the Venous Segment of the Arteriovenous Fistula

Venous stenosis is one of the primary causes of the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation-failure and is characterized by vasoconstriction and significant intima-media thickening (IMT). Although the hemodynamic endpoints are believed to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of venous stenosis, the exact mechanism behind this is unclear. Our hypothesis is that the changes in the pressure drop over time (Δp′) can influence the remodeling factors in AVFs: changes in luminal diameter (ΔDh) and IMT. Curved (C-AVF; n = 3) and straight (S-AVF; n = 3) AVFs were created between the femoral arteries and veins of 3 pigs. CT-scan and ultrasound were utilized to numerically evaluate the flow field, and thus pressure drop in AVFs at 2D (D: days), 7D, and 28D post-surgery. For each AVF, IMT was also measured at 4 histological blocks along the vein. For the C-AVF, the pressure drop consistently decreased over time (from 18.32 mmHg at 2D to 4.58 mmHg at 28D), while opposite trend was found for the S-AVF (from 12.91 mmHg at 2D to 24.49 mmHg at 28D). The Δp′ was negative at all the histology blocks for C-AVF which showed the reduction in the resistance over time due to dilation (positive ΔDh) and outward hypertrophy of the venous segment (positive ΔDh/IMT). In contrast, Δp′ was mostly positive for the S-AVF which showed the increase in the resistance due to vasoconstriction (negative ΔDh) and inward hypertrophy (negative ΔDh/IMT). Thus, measuring Δp′ at the successive post-surgery time points can provide important information on the remodeling behavior of AVFs. Also, creating AVFs in a surgical configuration that can result in negative Δp′ and thus favorable remodeling could influence the life expectancy of the dialysis patients.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Asking well-built questions for evidence-based practice in augmentative and alternative communication ☆

Abstract Evidence-based practice (EBP) is increasingly being advocated as the preferred approach to practice in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The EBP process involves multiple steps. The asking of a well-built question is the first step in the quest for answers. At the same time it is also often the first stumbling block for practitioners. To facilitate the asking of well-built questions it may be helpful to follow a template. The most frequently used template is PICO, which stands for patient, intervention, comparison, and outcome [Richardson, W., Wilson, M., Nishikawa, J., & Hayward, R. (1995). The well-built clinical question: A key to evidence-based decisions. ACP Journal Club, 123, A12–A13]. In this article, we examine the suitability of the PICO template for AAC in terms of the representativeness of the components, and the appropriateness of its subcomponents, and their terminology. Based on this analysis, we propose the PESICO template, which stands for person, environments, stakeholders, intervention, comparison, and outcome. This template is then illustrated with examples representing a range of decision-making areas in AAC. Finally, directions for future research are provided. Learning outcomes: The reader will be able to: (1) appreciate the importance of asking well-built questions, (2) name the shortcomings of the PICO template, and (3) describe the components of the proposed PESICO template for asking well-built questions.
Language and Identity in the Education of Boston-Area Khmer.

Khmer refugee parents express strongly positive attitudes toward their native language, and toward bilingual education for their children. Yet not all parents enroll their children in bilingual classrooms. Research conducted among Boston-area Khmer refugees explored this discrepancy between stated ideals and educational decisions and found that parents' decisions concerning their children's language learning and general education often have less to do with language attitudes than they do with Khmer notions of person, intelligence, and motivation. These notions are only implicit in Khmer discourse and behavior, and are thus often overlooked or misinterpreted by teachers and school officials. Moreover, in important respects these ideas distinguish Khmer from other Southeast and East Asian immigrants. KHMER REFUGEES, NATIVE LANGUAGE ATTITUDES, MINORITY EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE, ETHNOGRAPHIC RESEARCH
Avian Influenza Surveillance in Hunter-harvested Waterfowl from the Gulf Coast of Texas (November 2005–January 2006)

The objectives of our study were to determine prevalence of avian influenza viruses (AIV) on wintering grounds on the Texas Gulf Coast, USA, and to compare real-time reversetranscriptase polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) and virus isolation for detection of AIV in cloacal swabs from wild waterfowl. Cloacal swabs were collected from hunter-harvested waterfowl from November 2005 to January 2006 at four wildlife management areas. Seven AIV were isolated from four species of ducks: Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca) in November; Blue-winged Teal (Anas discors) in November; Mottled Duck (Anas fulvigula) in December, and Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) in January. Prevalence of AIV for each of these species during the sampling period was 1.4, 2, 6, and 0.6%, respectively. The AIV subtypes detected were H1N2, H1N4, H4N6, H6N2, and H10N7, all previously reported in North American waterfowl. Our study identified AIV subtypes not previously reported on the Texas Gulf Coast and provides baseline data for a multiyea...
Axotomy-induced regulation of c-Jun expression in regenerating rat retinal ganglion cells

Antibodies to c-Jun, JunD, JunB, c-Fos, FosB and Krox-24 proteins were used to examine the expression of these transcription factors in identified adult rat retinal ganglion cells with regenerating axons in a peripheral nerve graft. First, expression in ganglion cells 1 month after graft placement was compared to expression in these neurons 5 to 6 months after grafting. Whereas strong c-Jun expression was seen in most ganglion cells one month after grafting, most 5- to 6-month ganglion cells showed only basal expression. The maintained nucleolar expression of FosB in both ganglion cell groups was the only other transcription factor seen. Second, transcription factor expression was examined in these short- and long-term regenerating neurons after a second axotomy caused by graft transection and compared to the effects of a single axotomy on expression in non-regenerating ganglion cells. Only c-Jun was re-expressed in the regenerating ganglion cells after re-axotomy.
Life Cycle Assessment of a Power Tower Concentrating Solar Plant and the Impacts of Key Design Alternatives

A hybrid life cycle assessment (LCA) is used to evaluate four sustainability metrics over the life cycle of a power tower concentrating solar power (CSP) facility: greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, w...
Identification of hydrophobic regions of the calcium-transport ATPase from sarcoplasmic reticulum after photochemical labeling with adamantane diazirine

Abstract 1. 1. The Ca-ATPase from skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum was labeled with [ 3 H]adamantane diazirine. 2. 2. Adamantane diazirine is a hydrophobic photoactivated probe that partitions into the cell membrane and can be used to identify regions of proteins that are embedded within the membrane. 3. 3. Digestion of the labeled protein with trypsin and separation of the labeled tryptic fragments by SDS-polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis indicated that all of the major tryptic fragments were labeled by the probe. 4. 4. The presence of glutathione in the sample buffer during photolysis did not alter the pattern of labeling, indicating that adamantane diazirine labeled the Ca-ATPase from within the lipid bilayer. 5. 5. These results indicate that the Ca-ATPase polypeptide must cross the membrane at least 3 times.
She Said, He Said. The Influence of Remedial Accounts on Third-Party Judgments of Coworker Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment often consists of ambiguous behaviors subject to interpretation. Remedial accounts that clarify and explain such behaviors can play a major role in influencing organizational representatives’ perceptions of harassment. Data from 351 employees indicated that type of account, gender of participant, and type of harassing behavior influenced judgments of sexual harassment, perceived offensiveness, and perceived need for disciplinary action. Denials were the most mitigating type of account, followed by excuses, justifications, and concessions. Men and women differed in the extent to which their ratings were influenced by accounts; men’s ratings were more likely to be influenced by denials, whereas women’s ratings were more likely to be influenced by concessions. In addition, remedial accounts were found to be more effective for less severe types of harassing behavior (gender harassment and unwanted sexual attention) and less effective for more severe behavior (sexual coercion).
How should women sales managers lead their sales personnel

As the influx of women entering sales positions is increasing, a growing (albeit relatively small) number of saleswomen have been promoted into first‐line sales management positions. A key question facing these managers is what kind of leadership style they should use with their sales staffs. Answers to this question are presently ambiguous. This paper reports the results of an investigation which focussed on which of four leadership approaches enhances performance of female sales managers’ sales personnel. Findings imply that women sales supervisors should give serious consideration to adopting a “contingent reward” leadership style. Also offers managerial implications.
Effect of microenvironment pH of aluminum hydroxide adjuvant on the chemical stability of adsorbed antigen

The rate of acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of glucose-1-phosphate (G1P) when adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide adjuvant was significantly slower than the rate of hydrolysis of a solution of G1P at the same pH. It was concluded that the positively charged aluminum hydroxide adjuvant (iep 11.4) electrostatically attracted anions including hydroxyls to form a double layer surrounding the adjuvant particles. Thus, the pH of the microenvironment surrounding the aluminum hydroxide adjuvant was higher than the bulk pH. Adsorbed G1P hydrolyzed at a rate associated with the pH of the microenvironment of the surface of the adjuvant rather than with the pH of the bulk solution. Comparison of the rate constant for the hydrolysis of adsorbed G1P to the pH-stability profile of G1P in solution revealed that adsorbed G1P hydrolyzed at a rate associated with a pH that was approximately two pH units higher than the bulk pH. The results suggest that the chemical stability of antigens that degrade by pH-dependent mechanisms can be optimized by modifying the surface charge of the aluminum-containing adjuvant to produce the pH of maximum stability in the microenvironment of the adjuvant.
Treatment of acute leukemia in protected environment units

Thirty evaluable patients with acute leukemia (AL), aged 14 to 48-year-old received remission induction chemotherapy on a protected environment-prophylactic antibiotic program. Twenty-seven (90%) of these patients achieved complete remission and 17 remained in complete remission for 1 to 22 months. Although these patients spent 36% of their time with neutrophil counts less than 100/mm3, they spent only 20% of their time with fever. Major infection was present during only 7% of the days when neutrophil count was less than 100/mm3. No patient died of an infectious complication during remission induction therapy.
Mixed Convection around a Heated Rotating Horizontal Square Cylinder in a Circular Enclosure

Numerical results are presented for two-dimensional laminar mixed convection flows around a heated horizontal square cylinder rotating slowly within a concentric circular enclosure. The time evolution of the rotation and buoyancy-induced mixed convection flows are analyzed over a range of the radius ratio χ, the Gr, and the rotational Re. The radius ratio considered ranged from 0.2 to 0.55. The Gr range is taken from 103 to 2 × 104, and the rotational Re varied from 0 to 24. The flow and temperature fields and heat transfer characteristics are presented over this parameter range. The effect of the rotating noncircular geometry of the inner cylinder on the flow field and the heat transfer characteristics are considered in detail and compared with those previously studied for differentially heated concentric circular annuli.
Action of pancreatic polypeptide on exocrine pancreas and on release of cholecystokinin and secretin.

We have studied the effect of exogenous porcine pancreatic polypeptide (PP; 0.8 and 2.1 μg/kg.h, iv) on endogenously stimulated pancreatic exocrine secretion in five pancreatic- fistula dogs. Plasma levels of cholecystokinin (CCK), secretin, and PP were measured in addition to pancreatic secretion of water, bicarbonate, and protein. Intraduodenal infusions of acid and a mixture of phenylalanine and tryptophan were used to stimulate hormone release. PP caused a dose-dependent inhibition of endogenously stimulated pancreatic secretion, whereas the release of CCK and secretin was not affected. Duodenal acidification and intraduodenal infusion of phenylalanine and tryptophan caused a significant release of PP. This study shows that: 1) PP suppresses pancreatic secretion by means of a mechanism that is probably direct; this effect is not mediated through inhibition of release of CCK or secretin, and 2) phenylalanine and tryptophan, both strong stimulants of CCK release, cause a substantial rise in PP in periph...
Joint inversion of surface wave velocity and gravity observations and its application to central Asian basins shear velocity structure

[1] We implement and apply a method to the jointly inverted of surface wave group velocities and gravity anomalies observations. Surface wave dispersion measurements are sensitive to seismic shear wave velocities, and the gravity measurements supply constraints on rock density variations. Our goal is to obtain a self-consistent three-dimensional shear velocity–density model with increased resolution of shallow geologic structures. We apply the method to investigate the structure of the crust and upper mantle beneath two large central Asian sedimentary basins: the Tarim and Junggar. The basins have thick sediment sections that produce substantial regional gravity variations (up to several hundred milligals). We used gravity observations extracted from the global gravity model derived from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite mission. We combine the gravity anomalies with high-resolution surface wave slowness tomographic maps that provide group velocity dispersion values in the period range between 8 and 100 s for a grid of locations across central Asia. To integrate these data, we use a relationship between seismic velocity and density constructed through the combination of two empirical relations. One determined by Nafe and Drake, most appropriate for sedimentary rocks, and a linear Birch's law, more applicable to denser rocks (the basement). An iterative, damped least squares inversion including smoothing is used to jointly model both data sets, using shear velocity variations as the primary model parameters. Results show high upper mantle shear velocities beneath the Tarim basin and suggest differences in lower crust and upper mantle shear velocities between the eastern and western Tarim.
Potato pitting during washing

The tests demonstrated that 60-durometer rubber-scrubber material, both new and worn, pitted mature potatoes severely enough to detract from their appearance. The degree of pitting increased with roller speed and length of time potatoes were exposed to the scrubber rolls. New 40-durometer rubber-scrubber material did not pit potatoes when they were subjected to a high roller speed for a longer time than would be expected during normal washing operation.
Young of the Midas cichlid get biologically active nonnutrients by eating mucus from the surface of their parents

Fry (first mobile offspring) of the Midas cichlid,Cichlasoma citrinellum, feed on the epidermal mucus of their parents. Ingesting mucus increased at first then fluctuated during the four-week period of parental care of swimming young (fry). Total protein in the mucus was assessed using Bio-Rad-Protein-assays. Western blots revealed prolactin (tiPRL 177 and traces of tiPRL 188) and growth hormone (tiGH). Thyroxine (T4) was also detected quantitatively by RIA. Fry with parents grew faster initially than those raised without. The growth rate of fry isolated from parents increased, however, when fed daily about 0.01 mg ovine PRL or ovine GH.
Transmission of growth anomalies between Indo-Pacific Porites corals.

In this study we provide experimental evidence of transmission of growth anomalies (GAs) between corals. Twenty-four aquaria (16 experimental, 8 containing only apparently healthy corals) were set-up on Negros Island, Philippines, to test for direct-contact and waterborne transmission of GAs. Within seven weeks, two of 16 apparently healthy colonies placed in direct contact with colonies having GAs developed multiple GA lesions whose size and number increased over time. One of 16 apparently healthy colonies in experimental aquaria not touching any diseased colony also developed a GA, exhibiting a single lesion that did not increase in size. Apparently healthy colonies (n = 24) in aquaria without a diseased colony remained unchanged.
Reply to Jørgensen et al

Reply to: MH Jorgensen et al. 1999, 'The role of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in neonatal nutrition', Acta Paediatrica, 88(8):916-917.
Premeditated aggression is associated with serum cholesterol in abstinent drug and alcohol dependent men

Relationships between aggressive subtypes and lipids were explored in 18 adult males undergoing treatment for substance dependence. A positive association was observed between a measure of premeditated aggression and total cholesterol. This was in contrast to an inverse association between lower cholesterol and higher impulsivity and anxiety.
Rating Movies and Rating the Raters Who Rate Them

The movie distribution company Netflix has generated considerable buzz in the statistics community by offering a million dollar prize for improvements to its movie rating system. Among the statisticians and computer scientists who have disclosed their techniques, the emphasis has been on machine learning approaches. This article has the modest goal of discussing a simple model for movie rating and other forms of democratic rating. Because the model involves a large number of parameters, it is nontrivial to carry out maximum likelihood estimation. Here we derive a straightforward EM algorithm from the perspective of the more general MM algorithm. The algorithm is capable of finding the global maximum on a likelihood landscape littered with inferior modes. We apply two variants of the model to a dataset from the MovieLens archive and compare their results. Our model identifies quirky raters, redefines the raw rankings, and permits imputation of missing ratings. The model is intended to stimulate discussion and development of better theory rather than to win the prize. It has the added benefit of introducing readers to some of the issues connected with analyzing high-dimensional data.
SLP-76 Regulates Fcγ Receptor and Integrin Signaling in Neutrophils

Abstract While the contribution of intracellular adaptor proteins to lymphocyte activation has been well studied, the function of these molecules in innate immune effector cells such as neutrophils has not been extensively addressed. Here we demonstrate a critical role for the adaptor molecule SH2 domain-containing leukoctye-specific phosphoprotein of 76 kDa (SLP-76) in FcγR and integrin signaling. Stimulation of these receptors induces tyrosine phosphorylation and cytoplasmic relocalization of SLP-76 in freshly isolated murine neutrophils. Neutrophils lacking SLP-76 demonstrate decreased FcγR-induced calcium flux and reactive oxygen intermediate (ROI) production in response to immune complex stimulation. More dramatically, SLP-76 −/− neutrophils fail to produce ROI, spread, or activate critical downstream regulators in response to integrin ligation. These results provide genetic evidence for a critical role of SLP-76 in the regulation of neutrophil function.
The experience of Latino parents of hospitalized children during family-centered rounds.

OBJECTIVE:The aim of this study is to describe the experience of Latino parents of hospitalized children during family-centered rounds (FCRs).BACKGROUND:Family-centered rounds provide a mechanism to exchange information and facilitate shared decision making. Latino parents may have a suboptimal expe
Neutralizing antibody directed against the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein can completely block HIV-1/SIV chimeric virus infections of macaque monkeys.

Virus–specific antibodies protect individuals against a wide variety of viral infections1–7. To assess whether human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV–1) envelope–specific antibodies confer resistance against primate lentivirus infections, we purified immunoglobulin (IgG) from chimpanzees infected with several different HIV–1 isolates, and used this for passive immunization of pig–tailed macaques. These monkeys were subsequently challenged intravenously with a chimeric simian–human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) bearing an envelope glycoprotein derived form HIV–1DH12, a dual–tropic primary virus isolate. Here we show that anti–SHIV neutralizing activity, determined in vitro using an assay measuring loss of infectivity, is the absolute requirement for antibody–mediated protection in vivo. Using an assay that measures 100% neutralization, the titer in plasma for complete protection of the SHIV–challenged macaques was in the range of 1:5–1:8. The HIV–1–specific neutralizing antibodies studied are able to bind to native gp120 present on infectious virus particles. Administration of non–neutralizing anti–HIV IgG neither inhibited nor enhanced a subsequent SHIV infection.
Gender and ethnic diversity on boards and corporate information environment

Abstract Prior studies argue that demographic diversity on a firm's board impacts its information environment, yet there is limited empirical evidence regarding the relation between board diversity and corporate opacity. We extend this line of research by examining whether gender and ethnic diversity of directors impacts corporate opacity. Using a Herfindahl Index based on directors' gender and ethnicities to measure board diversity, and an opacity index based on analyst following, analyst forecast error, bid–ask spread, and share turnover to measure corporate opacity, we find that board diversity is negatively associated with corporate opacity. Our results are robust to alternative measures of board diversity and the various tests we employ to address potential endogeneity concerns.
Chemosensitivity of rat nasal trigeminal receptors.

Electrophysiological responses to odorants delivered via an air dilution olfactometer were recorded from the ethmoid branch of the trigeminal nerve innervating the nasal cavity. Thresholds were obtained for nine compounds with those for heptanol (21-137 ppm) and propionic acid (39-49) ppm consistently being the lowest. Not all odorants e.g., phenethyl alcohol, elicited responses in all rats even at vapor saturation. A striking degree of correlation was present between the rat whole-nerve electrophysiological response magnitudes of this study and the human anosmic intensity ratings established in the work of Doty et al. [9] to vapor saturated stimuli. These results suggest that the rat is an excellent model for assessing the stimulatory effectiveness of odorants on human trigeminal receptors. The possible role of the trigeminal system in the perception of odors as well as the physiologic effects of odorants due to trigeminal stimulation are discussed.
Ionic conductivity measurements of doped β-alumina compounds

Abstract The temperature dependent conductivity of Co-stabilized β″-alumina, Co and Ni-doped β-aluminas, pure β-alumina, and K+-exchanged Ni-doped β-alumina has been measured and compared between 25°C and 600°C. The analysis was made by means of phase-synchronous detection system in the frequency range 100 Hz to 10 MHz. From these measurements it was found that the doped β-alumina compounds had consistently higher conductivity than comparable undoped material, although still not quite as high as their stabilized β″-alumina counterparts. It was also found that Co-stabilized β″-aluminas displayed a break in the conductivity curve, previously reported only in Mg-stabilized β″-alumina. Doped β-aluminas also displayed non-linear conductivity curves showing a slight bending around 200°C.
Revisiting Hydrophobic Mismatch with Free Energy Calculations of Transmembrane Helix Tilting

Membrane proteins are involved in various cellular processes via interactions between their helices and the surrounding lipid environments. It is energetically favorable for transmembrane (TM) domain to match the hydrophobic thickness of the lipid bilayer. We have utilized a helix tilt restraint potential and the free energy decomposition technique to characterize the microscopic forces governing tilting of various TM peptides in different conditions. To investigate the influence of hydrophobic length of TM helix on its tilting, we used a model peptide called WALP (acetyl-GW2(LA)nLW2A-NH2) by varying systematically the length of the peptide (WALP16, WALP19, WALP23, and WALP27). Also, to study the influence of membrane hydrophobic thickness on TM helix tilting, we used two kind of lipid bilayer (DMPC and POPC). Finally, we used arginine, lysine, and alanine as a flanking residue instead of tryptophan (acetyl-GX2(LA)8LX2A-NH2: X = R, K, and A) to examine the influence of various anchoring residues on TM helix tilting. The detail structural features and energetic contribution from hydrophobic (mis)match between lipid and peptides are presented and discussed.
On the convergence of high resolution methods with multiple time scales for hyperbolic conservation laws

A class of finite volume methods based on standard high resolution schemes, but which allows spatially varying time steps, is described and analyzed. A maximum principle and the TVD property are verified for general advective flux, extending the previous theoretical work on local time stepping methods. Moreover, an entropy condition is verified which, with sufficient limiting, guarantees convergence to the entropy solution for convex flux.
The neuropathic pain triad: neurons, immune cells and glia

Nociceptive pain results from the detection of intense or noxious stimuli by specialized high-threshold sensory neurons (nociceptors), a transfer of action potentials to the spinal cord, and onward transmission of the warning signal to the brain. In contrast, clinical pain such as pain after nerve injury (neuropathic pain) is characterized by pain in the absence of a stimulus and reduced nociceptive thresholds so that normally innocuous stimuli produce pain. The development of neuropathic pain involves not only neuronal pathways, but also Schwann cells, satellite cells in the dorsal root ganglia, components of the peripheral immune system, spinal microglia and astrocytes. As we increasingly appreciate that neuropathic pain has many features of a neuroimmune disorder, immunosuppression and blockade of the reciprocal signaling pathways between neuronal and non-neuronal cells offer new opportunities for disease modification and more successful management of pain.
Bifunctional glyoxylate cycle protein of Caenorhabditis elegans: a developmentally regulated protein of intestine and muscle.

Abstract The reaction of an abundant 106-kDa polypeptide with a specific monoclonal antibody has been localized in intestinal and muscle cells of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans . This protein was first detected in 4-6 cells of the clonal E lineage of 100-cell embryos. This lineage is committed to the intestinal cell fate. The antigen continued to be expressed in the differentiating gut and then appeared in early differentiating body wall muscle cells of 400- to 500-cell embryos. Molecular cloning and sequencing showed that the largest cDNA clone contained 3274 bp and encoded a sequence of 1005 amino acids. The predicted polypeptide of 112,799 MW contains separate domains for the glyoxylate cycle enzymes isocitrate lyase and malate synthase. Their enzymatic activities had been shown previously to be highest in embryos and L1 larvae (Khan, F. R., and McFadden, B. A. (1980). FEBS Lett. 115, 312-314; Khan, F. R., and McFadden, B. A. (1982). Exp. Parasitol. 54, 48-54; Wadsworth, W. G., and Riddle, D. L. (1989). Dev. Biol. 132, 167-173). The domain-specific sequences were shown to be contiguous in genomic DNA and are separated by an intron of 68 bp. A single polypeptide and both enzymatic activities are precipitated by the antibody, and peptide fragments resulting from limited proteolytic digestion contained amino acid sequences which overlap the predicted junctional region. The physical localization of the gene correlates with a small region of the left arm of Linkage Group V to which multiple embryonic lethal mutations have been mapped.
A randomized controlled pilot study of the effectiveness of occupational therapy for children with sensory modulation disorder.

KEY WORDS • effectiveness • occupational therapy • pediatric • sensory integration • sensory modulation disorder (SMD) • sensory processing OBJECTIVE. A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) of the effectiveness of occupational therapy using a sensory integration approach (OT-SI) was conducted with children who had sensory modulation disorders (SMDs). This study evaluated the effectiveness of three treatment groups. In addition, sample size estimates for a large scale, multisite RCT were calculated. METHOD. Twenty-four children with SMD were randomly assigned to one of three treatment conditions; OT- SI, Activity Protocol, and No Treatment. Pretest and posttest measures of behavior, sensory and adaptive func- tioning, and physiology were administered. RESULTS. The OT-SI group, compared to the other two groups, made significant gains on goal attainment scaling and on the Attention subtest and the Cognitive/Social composite of the Leiter International Performance Scale-Revised. Compared to the control groups, OT-SI improvement trends on the Short Sensory Profile, Child Behavior Checklist, and electrodermal reactivity were in the hypothesized direction.
Paired-Associate Learning as a Function of Age and Mode of Presentation:

Researchers have continued to echo McGeoch and Irion's (1952) statement concerning the superiority of the auditory modality for young children and the visual modality for older children in paired-associate learning despite conflicting results. In the present study, in which the performance of second and fifth grade children on a paired-associate task under 6 different modes of presentation was compared, mode of presentation did not vary as a function of age. The picture/sound combined condition was superior to the sound and printed/spoken-word conditions but provided no advantage over the picture condition alone. No significant differences were found among the printed-word, spoken-word, and combined printed/spoken-word conditions. Difficulties in making comparisons among studies because methods differed and implications for further research were discussed.
RAPID, MACHINE-LEARNED RESOURCE ALLOCATION: APPLICATION TO HIGH-REDSHIFT GAMMA-RAY BURST FOLLOW-UP

As the number of observed gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) continues to grow, follow-up resources need to be used more efficiently in order to maximize science output from limited telescope time. As such, it is becoming increasingly important to rapidly identify bursts of interest as soon as possible after the event, before the afterglows fade beyond detectability.Studyingthemostdistant(highestredshift)events,forinstance,remainsaprimarygoalformanyinthe field. Here, we present our Random Forest Automated Triage Estimator for GRB redshifts (RATE GRB-z) for rapid identification of high-redshift candidates using early-time metrics from the three telescopes onboard Swift. While the basic RATE methodology is generalizable to a number of resource allocation problems, here we demonstrate its utility for telescope-constrained follow-up efforts with the primary goal to identify and study high-z GRBs. For each new GRB, RATE GRB-z provides a recommendation—based on the available telescope time—of whether the event warrants additional follow-up resources. We train RATE GRB-z using a set consisting of 135 Swift bursts with known redshifts, only 18 of which are z> 4. Cross-validated performance metrics on these training data suggest that ∼56% of high-z bursts can be captured from following up the top 20% of the ranked candidates, and ∼84% of high-z bursts are identified after following up the top ∼40% of candidates. We further use the method to rank 200+ Swift bursts with unknown redshifts according to their likelihood of being high-z.
Folding of the Plasmodium falciparum cysteine protease falcipain-2 is mediated by a chaperone-like peptide and not the prodomain.

Abstract Papain-family cysteine proteases of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, known as falcipains, are hemoglobinases and potential drug targets. Available data suggest that papain-family proteases require prodomains for correct folding into functional conformations. However, in prior studies of falcipain-2, anEscherichia coli-expressed construct containing only a small portion of the prodomain refolded efficiently, suggesting that this enzyme differs in this regard from other papain-family enzymes. To better characterize the determinants of folding for falcipain-2, we expressed multiple pro- and mature constructs of the enzyme in E. coli and assessed their abilities to refold. Mature falcipain-2 refolded into active protease with very similar properties to those of proteins resulting from the refolding of proenzyme constructs. Deletion of a 17-amino acid amino-terminal segment of the mature protease yielded a construct incapable of correct folding, but inclusion of this segment in trans allowed folding to active falcipain-2. The prodomain was a potent, competitive, and reversible inhibitor of mature falcipain-2 (K i 10−10 m). Our results identify a chaperone-like function of an amino-terminal segment of mature falcipain-2 and suggest that protease inhibition, but not the mediation of folding, is a principal function of the falcipain-2 prodomain.
Turbulence level significance of the coalescence-dispersion rate parameter

Abstract The random coalescence-and-dispersion (C–D) models for non-ideal mixing in reactors involve a rate parameter, I , which is the frequency of the coalescence and dispersion events divided by the available number of coalescence sites per unit residence time, where residence time is a measure of reactor size. An approximate relationship between I and hydrodynamic parameters has been found by carefully comparing C–D computations, where I varies with location, with actual measurements of the turbulent energy dissipation rate, e, and the turbulence length scale, L s , in a tubular reactor. At each location I was determined such that the calculated conversion of a second-order reaction matched the measured conversion. The relationship found was: I ≈ 1333(e/ L s 2 ) 1 3 ( − τ/ N ) where L s , is the length scale of segregation, e has dimensions of velocity squared per unit time, and ( − τ N ) is the residence time divided by the number of coalescence sites. The relationship above was applied to the C–D modeling of a semi-batch reactor with a consecutive-competitive reaction. The resulting yields and selectivities under the various conditions of the experimental data were very close to experimental results.
Individual differences in performance, workload, and stress in sustained attention: Optimism and pessimism

The relationship between optimism, pessimism and vigilance was investigated as a function of the degree to which different display formats facilitated performance across types of perceptual discrimination. Pessimism was associated with display and task dependent differences in workload, stress, and coping strategy. Optimism by pessimism interaction was observed for stress (Tense Arousal). Neither trait was associated with performance differences. Pessimism, but not optimism, was related to coping strategy independent of experimental condition. The results of this study were more consistent with a coping/cognitive resources perspective on optimism and pessimism than with an explanation based on learned helplessness theory. Further, the data supported the contention that optimism and pessimism are correlated but distinct constructs. The results also underscore the importance of considering both task parameters and person characteristics when evaluating the performance, workload, and stress of sustained attention.
Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT), plant uptake and effects on metabolism

Abstract In the USA and Canada, methylcyclopentadienyl manganese (MMT) is currently added to gasoline to replace tetraethyl lead as an antiknock fuel additive. Manganese concentrations in roadside soil and plants are increasing and correlated with distance from the roadway, traffic volume, plant type, and microhabitat. Radish ( Raphanus sativus L.) seedlings were treated for either five or thirty-five days with different levels of manganous chloride (0–1000 ppm). Metabolic heat rates ( q ) and respiration rates ( R CO 2 ), measured calorimetrically, indicated severe stress at Mn concentrations between 10 and 100 ppm and at temperatures above 20°C. Predicted growth rates ( R SG ) also decreased in these circumstances.
Neonatal lupus erythematosus. Report of serological and immunogenetic studies in twins discordant for congenital heart block

Autoantibody, HLA studies and C4 phenotypes were performed on twins discordant for isolated congenital heart block. Serum from the mother and cord blood from the infants revealed Ro(SSA) and La(SSB) antibodies in all three sera. No significant difference in Ro(SSA) antibody titre was noted in the cord blood of either twin when compared with maternal titres, as detected by a sensitive ELISA assay. The infants' mother was HLA-DR3 positive. Both infants had identical HLA and C4 phenotypes. Immunoblot analysis revealed that sera from both mother and infants reacted with the 52-kDa Ro(SSA) macromolecule. Quantitative cord blood IgM levels were not elevated in either twin. This study indicates that placental transfer of anti-Ro(SSA) or anti-La(SSB) alone to the fetus is not sufficient for the expression of congenital complete heart block. We conclude from this experiment of Nature that there must be a second event determining which infant develops complete heart block, but this is unknown at present.
Improvement in mitral regurgitation after aortic valve replacement.

Abstract This study sought to determine whether there is a quantitative improvement in mitral regurgitation (MR) after aortic valve replacement (AVR) for aortic stenosis (AS) and, if so, the mechanisms for this change. MR frequently accompanies AS. The addition of mitral valve replacement to AVR significantly increases the risk of surgery. Although previous studies have suggested a qualitative improvement in MR severity after AVR, semiquantitative analysis of this improvement has not been documented nor have the underlying mechanisms been examined. We evaluated 28 patients who had undergone 2-dimensional echo and color flow Doppler imaging an average of 1.5 ± 2.5 months before and 2.5 ± 4.2 months after AVR. Maximum MR area, MR percentage (MR area/left atrial area), mitral annular area, left atrial area, aortic gradient, and parameters of left ventricular geometry were measured to evaluate MR severity and to assess functional mechanisms for improvement in MR. There was a significant decrease in MR area (5.5 ± 2.8 cm2 vs 2.5 ± 1.9 cm2, p ≤0.0001) and MR percentage (25 ± 11% vs 12 ± 10% after operation, p ≤0.0001) between preoperative and postoperative studies. There was a significant reduction in aortic gradient, mitral annular area, left atrial area, and left ventricular length postoperatively. In univariate analysis, MR improvement was related to the lower preoperative left ventricular fractional area change (p = 0.027) and to the changes in fractional area change (p = 0.001) and left ventricular systolic area (p = 0.001). Thus, improvement in MR after AVR is related to changes in left ventricular function postoperatively. These data suggest that reduction in MR is due not only to decreased intraventricular pressure, but also to changes in ventricular morphology.