cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MARKETS AND MORALITY

For most of human history, economic systems were personal in nature—people normally interacted with people they knew personally and knew well. Today's modern market economies are impersonal—people normally interact with people they do not know personally. The historical movement from personal to impersonal systems was necessary for societies to develop the specialization of labor needed for modern production technologies. That is, the high standards of living in the developed world are due to these impersonal systems. However, the ethical systems theologians apply to modern market systems were developed for personal societies and are often inappropriate for impersonal societies. In this article, we develop the differences between personal and impersonal systems, examine the writings of a number of theologians who are very critical of market economies, and attempt to show how a different ethical approach is needed.
Distributions of particle displacements via higher-order moment functions

Concern is with phenomena that are moving and developing in time. Indistinguishable particles are displaced independently, with successive displacements possibly correlated. One wishes to estimate the joint probability distribution of those displacements. It is shown how this may be done via estimates of higher-order cumulant densities and spectra. The results simplify in the case that the original placements of the particles are homogeneous Poisson. Surprisingly then the cumulant density is essentially the probability density.
The Five-Paragraph Essay: Its Evolution and Roots in Theme-Writing

This essay traces the origins of the five-paragraph essay to a form of theme-writing that has deep roots in English education and classical rhetoric, long before the current-traditional period that has been commonly assumed to be the origin. The five-paragraph essay's history and evolution can inform our understanding of its role in writing instruction and why it has persisted for so long.
Role of nerve growth factor in the regulation of parotid cell differentiation induced by rat serum

The present study was undertaken to examine the factors that regulate rat serum (RS)- and nerve growth factor (NGF)-induced differentiation in a rat parotid acinar cell line. RS elicited extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/ERK2) activation within 5min, while cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels transiently rose after 6hr. RS also elicited a rise in amylase mRNA levels within 30min, which preceded the rise in amylase protein levels. A possible role for NGF was suggested by the findings that parotid cells express both TrkA and p75 receptors. The immunoreactivity of these NGF receptors was reduced during exposure to RS. Following prolonged incubation in RS when ERK activity subsided to near basal levels, NGF restored ERK1/ERK2 activity to the elevated level initially observed in RS. NGF was ineffective when cells were incubated in fetal bovine serum. NGF, when incubated in combination with the cAMP-generating neuropeptides, calcitonin gene-related peptide and vasoactive intestinal peptide, markedly enhanced the cellular amylase content produced by RS. We conclude that parotid cell differentiation arises from an activation of cell surface receptors by humoral factors in combination with NGF and cAMP-generating neuropeptides.
DECREASED Ia-AG ON HUMAN NEC: NATAL MACROPHAGES (A MARKER CF MATURATION?

Neonates are susceptible to severe viral and bacterial infections which may be due to immaturity of their immune system. Macro-phages are one of the critical elements in host defense and are important for many specific immune processes including gamma interferon production. Studies in our lab have shown that a functional immature neonatal macrophage is primarily responsible for the impaired production of PHA-induced gamma IFN by mononuclear cells of neonates (age 1-7 days). This defect improves with time of in vitro cultivation (≥3 wks) and also is age related in vivo (≥2½ mos). Neonatal mice have been shown to have a defect in antigen presenting function which is correlated with a decreased number of Ia AG bearing macros. To investigate factors associated with this macrophage defect in newborns, we studied adherent cells from Ficoll-Hypaque separated cord and adult cells in vitro for evidence of Ia AG by immunoperoxidase and monoclonal AB assay and morphological changes by scanning electron microscopy. We found that only 26% of 7 day old neonatal macros expressed Ia AG vs 90% in comparable adult macros. No gross morphological differences were seen by SEM of adult or neonatal macros at 5,6,7,8 days of age. However we found 2 populations of neonatal macros at 7 days with 10-15% large macros (diameter ≅40u) compared to 20-30u adult macros. In an attempt to activate neonatal macros we pretreated 6 day old neonatal macros for 8 hrs with Meloy interferon (.1, 1 and 10 IU) added neonatal T cells (2×105/ml) and stimulated with PHA and found no enhancement of IFN production in 48 hr supernates. Further investigation into the nature and correction of this impaired function may suggest future therapeutic possibilities.
Analog simulation of prepyriform cortex in the cat

Abstract The prepyriform cortex contains three types of intracortical feedback loops, negative, positive excitatory, and positive inhibitory, representing the possible modes of interaction in a mixed population of excitatory and inhibitory neurons. This system can be described by a linear differential equation with three variable coefficients corresponding to the three types of feedback gain. Solutions for the equation by analog computation for the appropriate initial conditions constitute the “single-shock evoked potential” for the model. Solutions are presented for four conditions, in each of which a single variable in the equation is modified. The changes in the output of the model are shown to replicate four patterns of variation previously described for the averaged evoked potential (AEP) of the prepyriform cortex. (1) An increase in AEP amplitude with food deprivation was replicated in the model by increasing forward gain of the system. (2) The increase in amplitude and decrease in frequency of AEP that occurs with increasing stimulus intensity was replicated by means of limiting diodes placed in the feedback limbs of the model. (3) A combined change in AEP amplitude, frequency, decay rate, and (inversely) phase, representing “spontaneous” variation in AEP, was replicated by decreasing network gain. (4) A decrease in phase and frequency of AEP associated with long-term learning was replicated by a relative increase in the gain of the positive excitatory feedback loop. The model is generally stable but can be rendered unstable in each of two ways (monotomic and oscillatory) previously observed in the prepyriform cortex. The role of the positive inhibitory feedback loop is shown to be particularly important in the maintenance of cortical stability.
SIMPLIFIED “DISC” (POLYACRYLAMIDE GEL) ELECTROPHORESIS*

Summary Cross-linked homogeneous 5 per cent polyacrylamide gel in rod form is a convenient medium for sharp analytical electrophoretic separation in microgram quantities of most serum proteins and of many biological ampholytes.
Cooling history of orthopyroxenes.

Orthopyroxenes cooling history, studying order- disorder transitions between ferrous iron and magnesium
Bragg-regime engineering by columnar thinning of chiral sculptured thin films

Summary Using a microscopic-to-continuum model of sculptured thin films (STFs) as two-phase composite materials, we have examined the optical consequences of post-deposition, uniform, columnar thinning of chiral STFs. Our results indicate that thinning processes such as etching and bioreduction can be useful in engineering the Bragg regimes of STFs after deposition. Uniform columnar thinning blue-shifts the Bragg regime and can improve the Bragg features of a chiral STF.
The impact of technological change on bank performance

Quarterly call report data for 225 banks over twenty-six quarters are used to estimate a quadratic cost function to provide a measure of technological change within the banking industry. The nature of the relationship between technological change and bank performance is then examined. A logit model is formulated to estimate the likelihood that banks will display a positive level of technological development. Return on assets and return on equity are selected as measures of banking performance. The results suggest that technological change is significantly related to over-all banking performance. Finally, a significant relationship is indicated between bank size and profitability and the rate at which banks implement technological change.
Future program of ocean research drilling use of GLOMAR EXPLORER

The scientists involved in earth science research and study have defined the task to explore the deep ocean margins and basins in 12000 to 14000 feet of water by drilling into the earth to obtain cores beneath the oceans to approximately 20000 feet. This task will require a large drill ship, a 12000-14000 foot riser and well control system and 35000 feet of drill pipe. The Glomar Explorer can be modified from a heavy-lift type mining ship to an oceanographic research drilling vessel. The ship can maintain position for deep water drilling for the oceanographic conditions specified. The unique heave-compensated gimbal system has the potential of allowing the support and tensioning of the riser without the requirements for riser floatation. Storage requirements are more than adequate, as are the space needs for the laboratory, crew and scientific staff. The ship can operate and handle 12000-14000 feet of riser and 35000 feet of drill pipe. The ship could qualify for an ABS-Class A operation with some modifications.
Metals in the Pine River: An Undergraduate Field Research Experience

The Pine River in Central Michigan serves as an outdoor laboratory in a wide variety of disciplines for undergraduate students at nearby Alma College. Students in chemistry have evaluated how local industry has impacted water quality and river sediments by analyzing metals (e.g., iron, lead, chromium) using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. Although the results generated are not unusual, the publicity created by the student work has caused both industry and regulatory agencies to begin remediation at several sites.
Superparamagnetic Nanocomposites Templated with Pyrazole-Containing Diblock Copolymers

Monodisperse maghemite nanoparticles, templated in novel, well-defined pyrazole-containing norbornene-based block copolymers, provided a superparamagnetic nanocomposite with high saturation magnetization at room temperature under an applied magnetic field. The synthesis of the polymer nanocomposites and physical, morphological, and magnetic chracaterization of the nanocomposites are reported. Micelle-encapsulated superparamagnetic nanocomposites were generated for dispersal in aqueous medium. Their stability in water in the presence of a magnetic field was investigated as was their morphology and cell viability, strongly suggesting the potential of these superparamagnetic polymer-based nanocomposites in certain biomedical imaging and associated applications.
Inhibition of lettuce seed germination and seedling growth by antimetabolites of nucleic acids, and reversal by nucleic acid precursors and gibberellic acid.

Germination of White Paris lettuce seeds is inhibited by 2-thiouracil up to 24 hours. This inhibition is reversed by RNA precursors only. Seedling growth of lettuce is inhibited by 2-thiouracil and 5-fluorouracil; and white the effect of 2-thiouracil is counteracted by RNA precursors, inhibition due to 5-fluorouracil is not reversed significantly by any nucleic acid precursors. Possibly 2-thiouracil controls germination and seedling growth by interfering with RNA synthesis, while the effect of 5-fluorouracil is non-specific.In the presence of gibberellic acid, 5-fluorouracil and 2-thiouracil are relatively ineffective in causing inhibition of hypocotyl growth. Mechanism of gibberellic acid action remains obscure.
Full-Scale Experiences With Leachate Recirculating Landfills: Case Studies

Leachate recirculation has been shown in lysimeter, pilot-scale and full-scale investigations to reduce the time required for waste stabilization, improve leachate quality, provide the opportunity for leachate volume reduction, and to enhance the rate of gas production. New generation full-scale landfills are implementing recirculation as a leachate management tool with increasing frequency. Leachate recirculation techniques used at full-scale landfills include pre-wetting of waste, leachate spraying, surface ponds, vertical injection wells and horizontal introduction systems. From observations of operating full-scale recirculating landfills, it appears to be important to provide flexibility in design, minimize low permeability daily and intermediate cover, include adequate ex situ storage volume, control infiltration into the landfill, and utilize waste moisture holding capacity efficiently. © 1996 ISWA
New family of solitary waves in granular dimer chains with no precompression

In the present paper we report the existence of a new family of solitary waves in general one-dimensional dimer chains with elastic interactions between beads obeying a strongly nonlinear Hertzian force law. These dimers consist of pairs of ``heavy'' and ``light'' beads with no precompression. The solitary waves reported herein can be considered as analogous to the solitary waves in general homogeneous granular chains studied by Nesterenko, in the sense that they do not involve separations between beads, but rather satisfy special symmetries or, equivalently antiresonances in their intrinsic dynamics. We conjecture that these solitary waves are the direct products of a countable infinity of antiresonances in the dimer. An interesting finding is that the solitary waves in the dimer propagate faster than solitary waves in the corresponding homogeneous granular chain obtained in the limit of no mass mismatch between beads (i.e., composed of only heavy beads). This finding, which might seem counterintuitive, indicates that under certain conditions nonlinear antiresonances can increase the speed of disturbance transmission in periodic granular media, through the generation of different ways for transferring energy to the far field of these media. From a practical point of view, this result can have interesting implications in applications where granular media are employed as shock transmitters or attenuators.
A mathematical model of the repopulation of southern high plains playas by Ambystoma tigrinum following Antevs’ Altithermal

Abstract The 20,000 ephemeral ponds, the playas of the southern high plains of the United States, were thought to have experienced a prolonged drought ending approximately 5000 years ago, during which amphibians and other aquatic residents would have died out. A few permanent ponds are conjectured to be the source of repopulation of the entire region since then. We develop a series of mathematical models based on the tiger salamander, Ambystoma tigrinum , on rainfall data, and on field data, to test this hypothesis. We show that, under reasonable assumptions, the region could have been repopulated through migration within this time frame.
INSTITUTIONAL IMAGE: SECULAR AND MARKETING INFLUENCES ON CHRISTIAN HIGHER EDUCATION

An interesting trend is sweeping the nation's Christian higher education movement. During the 20th century, Christian liberal arts colleges and universities were frequently established and founded with names that included their denominational affiliation or the word “Christian” in them. In recent years, the trend has been to omit any religious affiliation from an institution's name. This paper tracks the role of history in the naming of Christian colleges and universities since 1636 when Harvard College was founded as the first institution of higher education in America and the first college with a distinctive Christian mission. Although Harvard College was originally a Christian institution, it was named after its founder. Also relevant to mapping this trend is a case study of the evolution taking place in name changes among baccalaureate-granting, liberal arts colleges affiliated with Churches of Christ. The research findings conclude that although colleges and universities are making conscious choices ...
Comments on the recent decrease in solar radiation at the South Pole

A study has been made of the decrease in intensity of the direct solar radiation at the South Pole which occurred in late 1963. The decrease has been ascribed to an influx of volcanic dust in the stratosphere from the eruption of Mt. Agung, Bali. Following the decrease in 1963, the direct solar radiation values gradually approached their normal value by February 1966. Measurements of the total solar radiation received at the surface show a much smaller decrease. The solar radiation budget during this period is discussed and the influence of the dust on the radiation examined. Air trajectories at several stratospheric levels were used to indicate the height of the influx over the South Pole and the probable source region of the aerosol outside the Antarctic continental limits. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1968.tb00380.x
Green tea catechins inhibit pancreatic phospholipase A2 and intestinal absorption of lipids in ovariectomized rats

This study was conducted to examine whether the inhibition of intestinal lipid absorption by green tea is associated with the inhibitory effect of its catechins on pancreatic phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)). PLA(2) activity was assayed by using 1,2-dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC), porcine pancreatic PLA(2) and catechins at varying concentrations (0.075-1.80 micromol/L). The amount of 1-oleoyl-2-hydroxyphosphatidylcholine liberated was determined by HPLC. The percentage of inhibition of PLA(2) by catechins at 0.6 micromol increased in the order of (-)-epicatechin (23.3%), (+)-catechin (CAT; 24.8%), (-)-epigallocatechin (25.7%), (-)-epicatechin gallate (39.7%) and (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG; 64.9%). In an in vivo study, ovariectomized rats with lymph cannula were infused intraduodenally for 8 h with a triolein emulsion containing [dioleoyl-1-(14)C]-phosphatidylcholine, DOPC, alpha-tocopherol (alphaTOH) and retinol (ROH) without (CAT0) or with CAT or EGCG. The lymphatic total (14)C-radioactivity was significantly lowered by EGCG (45.5+/-4.9% dose) compared with CAT (56.2+/-5.2% dose) and CAT0 (64.7+/-2.0% dose). The (14)C-radioactivity remaining in the small intestinal lumen and cecum was higher in EGCG (24.1% dose) than in CAT (9.5% dose) and CAT0 rats (9.0% dose). Significantly less (14)C radioactivity was incorporated into lymph triacylglycerol and cholesteryl ester in EGCG rats. The absorption of alphaTOH, used as a marker of extremely hydrophobic lipids, was significantly lower in EGCG (7.8+/-1.7 micromol) than in CAT (14.4+/-2.8 micromol) and CAT0 rats (16.8+/-2.1 micromol). The absorption of ROH was unaffected, whereas oleic acid output was lower in EGCG rats. The results show that EGCG inhibits the intestinal absorption of lipids, which is in part associated with its inhibition of phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis. Data suggest that EGCG may inhibit the absorption of other highly lipophilic organic compounds.
Thermodynamics of industrially-important, enzyme-catalyzed reactions

The thermodynamics of 10 industrially-important, enzyme-catalyzed reactions are examined. The reactions discussed are: the conversions of penicillin G to 6-amino-penicillinic acid using the enzyme penicillin acylase; starch to glucose using amylases; glucose to fructose using glucose (xylose) isomerase; cellulose to glucose using cellulase; fumaric acid and ammonia to L-aspartic acid using L-aspartase; transcinnamic acid and ammonia to L-phenylalanine using L-phenylalanine ammonia lyase; L-histidine to urocanic acid and ammonia using L-histidine ammonia lyase; lactose to glucose and galactose using lactase; and the reactions catalyzed by amino acylases and proteases. The selection of these processes was based on the economic value of the products and their intrinsic industrial importance. The available thermodynamic properties, such as equilibrium constants, Gibbs energies (delta G degrees), enthalphies (delta H degrees), and heat capacity changes (delta Cp degrees) of these enzyme-catalyzed reactions, are reviewed and summarized. Recommendations are made for future research in this area.
The frequency of endemic fetal loss in dairy cattle: A review

Estimates of the frequency of endemic fetal loss range from 0.4 to 10.6%, a 26-fold difference, in 26 studies of dairy herds over 5 decades. Sources of this difference include breed, geographic, study population, case definition and procedural differences. The definition of fetal loss was inconsistent among the studies and was often not clearly stated. Twelve of the studies cited only visually observed losses, while the remainder reported losses of all known pregnancies but using different gestational at-risk periods. Definitions of the resulting frequency measure and methods of computation varied widely among the studies. Fetal loss frequencies have been reported as ratios, proportions, incidence rates and cumulative incidence rates. Denominators used in frequency calculations have included the number of pregnant cows, number of cows in the breeding herd, number of cows that calved before or after the risk period and number of calves born. These procedural differences make comparisons among studies and an overall estimate of an expected frequency of endemic fetal loss in dairy cattle difficult at best. Procedural and definition differences aside, the median frequency of fetal loss from studies enumerating only observed abortions was 1.95% and from the studies that included both observed and unobserved abortions 6.5%. Based on this difference, approximately only 30% of endemic fetal losses are observed visually.
Improving Political Science Education in the Schools: College-School Connections

Diggins, John P. 1984. The Lost Soul of American Politics, Virtue, Self-Interest and the Foundations of Liberalism. New York: Basic Books. Hartz, Louis. 1955. The Liberal Tradition in America, An Interpretation of American Political Thought Since the Revolution. New York: Harcourt, Brace. Kramnick, Isaac. 1982. Republican Revisionism Revisited. The American Historical Review, 87: 629-664. McCoy, Drew R. 1980. The Elusive Republic, Political Economy in Jeffersonian America. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press. Matthews, Richard K. 1984. The Radical Politics of Thomas Jefferson. Lawrence: University Press of Kansas. Murrin, John. 1980. The Great Inversion, Court Versus Country: A Comparison of the Revolution Settlements in England (1688-1771) and America (1776-1816). In J. G. A. Pocock, ed., Three British Revolutions: 1641, 1688, 1776. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1980. Pocock, J. G. A. 1975. The Machiavellian Moment, Florentine Political Thought and the Atlantic Republican Tradition. Princeton: Princeton University Press. Shalhope, Robert. 1972. Toward a Republican Synthesis: The Emergence of an Understanding of Republicanism in American Historiography. William and Mary Quarterly, 29: 49-80. Wills, Garry. 1978. Inventing America, Jefferson's Declaration of Independence. Garden City: Doubleday. Wood, Gordon. 1969. The Creation of the American Republic. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press. anning, Lance. 1986. Jeffersonian Ideology Improving Political Science Education in the Schools: College-School Connections
Menthol shares general anesthetic activity and sites of action on the GABAA receptor with the intravenous agent, propofol

Abstract Menthol and related compounds were investigated for modulation of recombinant human γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA A , α 1 β 2 γ 2s ) receptor currents expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Sub-maximal (EC 20 ) GABA currents were typically enhanced by co-applications of 3–300 μM (+)-menthol ( e.g. by ~ 2-fold at 50 μM) > isopulegol > isomenthol> α-terpineol >> cyclohexanol. We studied menthol's actions on GABA A receptors compared to sedatives (benzodiazepines) and intravenous anesthetics (barbiturates, steroids, etomidate and propofol). Flumazenil (a benzodiazepine antagonist) did not inhibit menthol enhancements while currents directly activated by 50 μM propofol were significantly inhibited (by 26 ± 3%) by 50 μM (+)-menthol. GABA A receptors containing β 2 subunits with either a point mutation in a methionine residue to a tryptophan at the 286 position (in transmembrane domain 3, TM-3) or a tyrosine to a tryptophan at the 444 position (TM-4) are insensitive to modulation by propofol. Enhancements of GABA EC 20 currents by menthol were equally abolished in GABA A α 1 β 2 (M286W)γ 2s and α 1 β 2 (Y444W)γ 2s receptors while positive modulations by benzodiazepines, barbiturates and steroids were unaffected. Menthol may therefore exert its actions on GABA A receptors via sites distinct from benzodiazepines, steroids and barbiturates, and via sites important for modulation by propofol. Finally, using an in vivo tadpole assay, addition of (+)-menthol resulted in a loss of righting reflex with an EC 50 of 23.5 ± 4.7 μM (~ 10-fold less potent anesthesia than propofol). Thus, menthol and analogs share general anesthetic action with propofol, possibly via action at similar sites on the GABA A receptor.
Measurements of temperature and concentration fluctuations in turbulent diffusion flames using pulsed raman spectroscopy

Instantaneous values of temperature and major component concentrations have been measured simultaneously using pulsed Raman spectroscopy in hydrogen-air diffusion flames of low turbulence produced in a well-controlled co-flowing fan-induced combustion tunnel. Results are presented in the form of probability density functions for each of these scalar variables as a function of flame position. Simultaneously measured values of temperature and concentration (nitrogen or hydrogen) are compared with adiabatic equilibrium flame calculations of these variables. Close agreement with this simplified escription is obtained in the lean regions of the flame; in the fuel-rich regions, the concentrations of N2 are higher than theoretically predicted and those of H2 are lower. Analysis strongly suggests that these systematic deviations arise from differential diffusion of H2. Initial conditioned sampling measurements are reported for hydrogen-propane-air turbulent diffusion flames and for premixed laminar propane-air flames.
Evaluation of the antimicrobial properties of an alcohol-free 2% chlorhexidine gluconate solution.

ABSTRACT SURGICAL SITE INFECTIONS (SSIs) contribute to morbidity and mortality and increase the costs of patient care. Effective skin decontamination is recommended to reduce the risk of SSI and the transmission of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. A MACRODILUTION BROTH METHOD and an in vitro time-kill method were used to determine the antimicrobial properties of an alcohol-free 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) solution against seven bacterial strains, including clinically derived strains of Acinetobacter baumannii and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). THE CHG SOLUTION REDUCED bacterial counts of drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and community-associated MRSA by 99.9% within three minutes of exposure, and effectiveness was maintained with significant dilutions of the CHG solution. AORN J 87 (May 2008) 925–933. © AORN, Inc, 2008.
GENOME AND KARYOTYPE RELATIONSHIPS IN THE GENUS DENDROBIUM (ORCHIDACEAE). I. CROSSABILITY

A B S T R A C r A hybridization study was made utilizing 37 species of 10 sections in 41 intra- and intersectional combinations. A total of 721 pollinations was made with 138 fruits harvested; 89 produced viable crosses. Five intrasectional and 20 intersectional combinations resulted in successful hybrids. Among the intrasectional crosses, Phalaenanthe X Phalaenanthe exhibited the highest percentage of fruits and successful crosses while Callista X Callista produced no successful crosses. Eugenanthe X Eugenanthe exhibited low crossability. Among the intersectional crosses, Ceratobium X Phalaenanthe gave the highest percentage of successful crosses, indicating a close relationship between the two groups. Also, there appears to be a fairly close relationship between Latourea and Ceratobium based on crossability. Although the sectional classification of the genus by Schlechter on the basis of vegetative and floral morphology appears to be valid, crossability studies suggest that the Ceratobium and Phalaenanthe sections might be integrated and the Eugenanthe section separated into sections or subsections. DENDROBIUM is one of the largest genera in the family Orchidaceae, with estimates of the number of species ranging from 800 to 1600 (Holttum, 1957; Hawkes, 1965). The species are widely distributed from Japan in the north to Tasmania in the south, and from the foothills of the Himalayas in the west to many of the island groups of Polynesia in the east. Their habitats range from hot sea-level areas to cool mountain heights.
Depletion of 1-MCP by ‘non-target’ materials from fruit storage facilities

Abstract The sorption of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) by a number of ‘non-target’ materials found in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) and pear (Pyrus communis L.) fruit storages was measured as a function of time, temperature, and moisture content. Materials included bin construction materials [high density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), extensively- and slightly-weathered oak (Quercus sp.), weathered fir (Abies sp.) plywood, and cardboard] and wall surface materials (polyurethane foam and cellulose-based fire retardant). Bin construction materials test pieces had an external surface area of 180 cm2. We placed ‘non-target’ materials in 1-l glass jars and added 1-MCP gas to the headspace at an initial concentration of approximately 30 μl l−1. Gas concentrations were measured after 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 24 h. The concentration of 1-MCP in empty jars was stable for the 24-h holding period. There was little to no sorption by HDPE, PP, polyurethane foam, or fire retardant. However, plywood, cardboard, slightly-weathered oak, and extensively-weathered oak absorbed 16, 18, 55, and 75% of the 1-MCP after 24 h. Moistening the test material increased the rate of sorption of 1-MCP for cardboard, plywood, weathered oak, and non-weathered oak, resulting in a depletion of approximately 98, 70, 98, and 98%, respectively, in 24 h. For oak bin material, the rate of sorption was not impacted by temperature and increasing the surface area by approximately 100% only marginally increased the rate of sorption. When moistened oak bin material was included with apple fruit in a proportion similar to that found in fruit storage, 90% depletion occurred in 6 h compared to approximately 80% in 24 h for fruit alone. The data suggest that 1-MCP levels can be compromised by wooden and cardboard bin and bin liner materials, but not by plastic bin materials or wall surface materials commonly used in Michigan.
A microfabricated, optically accessible device to study the effects of mechanical cues on collagen fiber organization

As the primary structural protein of our bodies, fibrillar collagen and its organizational patterns determine the biomechanics and shape of tissues. While the molecular assembly of individual fibrils is well understood, the mechanisms determining the arrangement of fibers and thus the shape and form of tissues remain largely unknown. We have developed a cell culture model that successfully recapitulates early tissue development and the de novo deposition of collagen fibers to investigate the role of mechanical cues on collagen fiber alignment. The devices used a thin, collagen-coated deformable PDMS membrane inside a tissue culture well built on microscope-grade coverslips. Deformations and strains in the PDMS membrane were quantified by tracking fluorescent bead displacement and through the use of a COMSOL model. Cyclical strains were applied to serum-cultured rabbit corneal cells at 0.5 Hz for 24–48 h and showed a preferred alignment after 36 h of cyclical loading. Cells cultured with ascorbic acid under methylcellulose serum-free conditions deposited a collagenous matrix that was visible under live second harmonic generation microscopy at week 4. Our microfabricated tissue culture system allows for the controllable application of a wide range of stress profiles to cells, and for the observation and quantification of cells and de novo collagen formation in vitro. Future studies will involve the fabrication of models to study the formation and organization of collagen in ocular diseases.
Estrogen modulation of prolactin gene expression requires an intact mitogen-activated protein kinase signal transduction pathway in cultured rat pituitary cells.

Expression of the PRL gene is regulated by many factors, including cAMP, estradiol (E2), phorbol esters, epidermal growth factor (EGF), and TRH. The promoter region of the rat PRL gene has been shown to contain DNA sequences that are thought to support the direct interaction of estrogen receptors (ERs) with DNA. It is by this direct ER/DNA interaction that estrogen is thought to modulate expression of PRL. We report here that estrogen-induced PRL expression requires an intact mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal transduction pathway in cultured rat pituitary cells (PR1 lactotroph and GH3 somatolactotroph cell lines). Interfering with the MAPK signaling cascade by inhibiting the activity of MAPK kinase (MEK) ablates the ability of estrogen to induce PRL mRNA and protein. In these cell lines, estrogen activates extracellular regulated protein kinases ERK-1 and ERK-2 enzyme activities maximally within 10 min of 1 nm E2 treatment. This activity is blocked by pretreatment of the cells with the MEK in...
Air ground collaboration through delegated separation: Application for departures and arrivals

Delegated separation is an air traffic management capability in which responsibility for separation from one or more aircraft is assigned to the flight crew by an air traffic controller, in specific tactical situations, to improve operational efficiency in the National Airspace System (NAS). In this human-in-the-loop (HITL) simulation, 8 airline pilots flew departure and arrival scenarios while using a cockpit display of traffic information to maintain separation from a lead airplane. Pilots reported that workload for the departure and arrival tasks was well within acceptable limits and that they would be willing to perform this task with the CDTI as implemented in this study. Objective spacing performance showed reduced spacing compared to the baseline condition where controllers retained separation responsibility. The observed baseline and delegated separation spacing distributions were applied to a fast time simulation to estimate the departure throughput benefit that may result from the application of these procedures. The estimated improvement in arrival rate was about 3 per hour for single runway arrivals, and NN about 4 per hour for single runway departures. Implications for NextGen operational improvement are discussed.
Influence of soil type and extraction conditions on perchlorate analysis by ion chromatography.

Perchlorate is a stable anion that has been introduced into the environment through activities related to its production and use as a solid rocket propellant. Perchlorate is thought to transport through soils without being adsorbed; thus, for determination of perchlorate in soil, samples are typically extracted with water prior to analysis. The completeness of extraction depends on perchlorate existing as a free ion within the soil matrix. In this study, perchlorate extraction efficiency was evaluated with five soil types under two different oxygen states. For each soil, 30% (w/w) slurries were prepared and equilibrated under either oxic or anoxic conditions prior to spiking with a stock solution of sodium perchlorate, and the slurries were then maintained for 1-week or 1-month. At the end of the exposure, slurries were centrifuged and separated into aqueous and soil phases. After phase separation, the soil was washed first with deionized water and then with 50 mM NaOH, producing second and third aqueous phases, respectively. Perchlorate concentrations in the three aqueous phases were determined using ion chromatography. The results obtained from this study suggest that matrix interference and signal suppression due to high conductivity have greater effects upon observed perchlorate concentrations by ion chromatography than does perchlorate interaction with soil. Thus, a single water extraction is sufficient for quantitative determination of perchlorate in soil.
Ethanol‐Induced Alterations in the Posttranslational Processing, But Not Secretion of Luteinizing Hormone‐Releasing Hormone In Vitro

The effects of ethanol (EtOH) on the male hypothalamic pituitary reproductive axis are multiple and varied. Although direct gonadal toxicity has been reported, hypothalamic-pituitary perturbations have also been noted. The difficulty of sampling the hypothalamus has made direct investigation of EtOH-induced alterations on luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) fraught with interpretation problems. To circumvent this, we have conducted a series of experiments exploring the effect of 200 mg% EtOH in vitro on GT1-7 cells, a newly developed LHRH secreting neural cell line. Cell lines were treated with EtOH-containing or EtOH-free media for 2, 6, 24, or 48 hr. EtOH caused no significant change in LHRH secretion at any time point, although there was a trend to increased secretion after 2 hr EtOH exposure when compared with control. Significantly increased total (i.e., cellular plus secreted) pro-LHRH coupled with significantly reduced cellular LHRH after 6 hr only of EtOH exposure suggested that EtOH caused a transient decrease in processing from bioinactive pro-LHRH to bioactive LHRH. However, even at this time point, LHRH secretion from these EtOH-exposed cells was no different than from control cells. Steady-state LHRH mRNA levels were not changed by EtOH at any time point. These findings are concordant with previous in vitro data using hypothalamic tissue that has similarly demonstrated no effect of EtOH on LHRH secretion. Taken together with the in vivo demonstration that EtOH reduces hypothalamic-pituitary portal blood levels of LHRH, these data indicate that EtOH exerts its effect either at an extrahypothalamic locus and/or on non-LHRH-producing cells within the hypothalamus.
The Galaxy as the origin of gamma-ray bursts

The gamma-ray burst spectrum N(greater than S) versus S is reviewed and found to be inconsistent with a completely isotropic distribution. Extragalactic distributions are considered but rejected in favor of a galactic origin. Spherical halo models, particularly those with central concentration, are found to be unacceptable. Noncentrally concentrated disk models are acceptable, especially those with larger scale height (beta) distributions. Spiral structure effects prevent the total rejection of small beta distributions but impose space density requirements which exclude many extreme Population I candidates. Integrated burst luminosities range from about 10 to the 38th to 2 x 10 to the 39th ergs while burst rate densities vary between about 10 to the -6th and 10 to the -8th/cu pc yr; both are uniquely determined by the distribution scale height. It is shown that galactic burst sources must be repetitive with repetition rates between about 10 to the -5th/yr and about 10 to the 6th/yr depending on the source space density and the importance of beaming. Bursts are unimportant in the galactic energy balance and, on average, in the energy history of their sources. They may, however, dominate specific events.
Ethics assessment in a general education programme

The purpose of this study was to assess whether flagged ‘values intensive’ courses within a public university's general education curriculum impacted on students' abilities to reason ethically. The major research question to be explored was, ‘what effect does taking a values intensive course have on students' ethical reasoning ability, when factors such as initial matriculation ability and total coursework are taken into account?’ Papers written by a sample of students in Legal Environment of Business (BSAD 240), mainly first‐year students and sophomores, were holistically scored to determine the level of values reasoning exhibited by the students. Demographic information and information about the number of values intensive courses each student had completed were correlated with the scores on the samples. It was found that students who had completed more values intensive courses scored higher on the samples used for this research. After providing an overview of the university and the State System of Highe...
Quantification of insect growth and its use in screening of naturally occurring insect control agents

In studies of the effects of allelochemicals or other factors on the development of different insect species, comparison of growth-inhibiting activities is difficult using the parameters currently employed. We introduce two new parameters, growth index (GI) and relative growth index (RGI), which can unify the quantification of insect development. This quantification can also eliminate the effects of different growth characteristics due to the genetic differences between insect species. By measuring growth-inhibiting effects of two phytochemicals, chaparrin and chaparrinone, on the tobacco budworm,Heliothis virescens, and the beet armyworm,Spodoptera exigua, bioassay procedures and GI and RGI calculations are demonstrated.
Towards personalized therapy for patients with glioblastoma

Combined therapy with temozolomide and radiotherapy is a standard treatment and improves the survival for patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma. However, the prognosis remains poor, with a median survival time of 12–15 months. Currently, several clinical trials of dose-dense temozolomide regimen or molecular-targeting therapies have been performed to overcome the resistance of glioblastoma. In these therapies, rational prognostic biomarkers have also been investigated to predict their outcome and response to treatment. This advanced understanding of the biological markers can help to develop personalized therapies for glioblastoma patients. Generally, due to a reduced tolerance, elderly patients do not seem to benefit from intensive treatment. This population needs individual treatments depended on their age or performance status. In this article, we review the recent studies that can provide personalized therapy for glioblastoma, based on molecular tumor profiling or patients’ physical status.
The Viscous Display: a transient adaptive interface for collective play in public space

The Viscous Display explores the exchange of social information through transient public interfaces. Shaped by principles of 'underground public art', the Viscous Display is conceived as a novel mobile communication medium, where messages can be shared in public spaces. Inspired by biological learning systems; the Viscous Display learns sensorial information that form along traces of a participant's touch and maps this information onto a flexible display. Because it is made up of inexpensive materials, the Viscous Display is also a disposable artifact that may be collected in public spaces. It combines multi-modal sensing, learning algorithms, and a pliable silicone display.
Infarctus du myocarde par embolie coronaire : pas si rare que cela ? Revue de la littérature à propos de cinq observations de patients en arythmie complète par fibrillation auriculaire

Five cases of myocardial infarction suspected to be due to coronary embolism are presented. All five patients had atrial fibrillation (AF), four of them with nonvalvular AF. The literature regarding coronary embolism is reviewed; the clinical manifestations and the place of AF are discussed.
Oncomorphic TP53 Mutations in Gynecologic Cancers Lose the Normal Protein:Protein Interactions with the microRNA Microprocessing Complex.

Mutations in the tumor suppressor TP53 occur in almost all advanced ovarian cancers and in many advanced serous endometrial cancers. Mutations in TP53 can alter the function of the p53 protein, and some mutations result in a mutated protein with oncogenic activity. Previously referred to as gain of function (GOF) p53 proteins, we now term these “oncomorphic” mutations to better describe their function as oncogenes. We reviewed the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and demonstrate that of the patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer that harbor TP53 mutations, approximately 30% of these mutations are oncomorphic. In ovarian cancer, approximately 20% are oncomorphic. The wild type (WT) p53 protein transactivates genes and micro-RNAs (miRNAs) necessary in the response to cellular stress, which turn off growth and induce apoptosis. In addition to direct transcriptional activation, WT p53 also acts through protein:protein interactions with Drosha and the miRNA processing complex to mediate rapid, enhanced processing of a subset of anti-growth miRNAs. We validated the interaction of WT p53 with the Drosha complex in the cell line UCI-107. We observed that miRNAs that inhibit the expression of oncogenes were induced. Specifically, some miRNAs were induced very rapidly over minutes, consistent with enhanced processing, while others required hours, consistent with transcriptional activation. In contrast, the most common oncomorphic TP53 mutations failed to interact with the Drosha complex and lost the ability to rapidly induce the miRNAs which inhibit oncogene expression. These studies highlight one mechanism underlying the oncomorphic properties of specific TP53 mutations: loss of the enhanced processing of anti-proliferative miRNAs.
Innovative Roles To Support Advanced Heart Failure & Transplant Program Growth

Purpose As VAD therapy expands, implanting centers face challenges of sustaining growth while maximizing staff productivity. We describe an innovative approach to integrate Heart Failure Cardiology, Heart Transplant, and Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) programs and establishing functions supportive of growth and efficiency. Methods and Materials A “LEAN” process analysis (based on renowned Toyota production & efficiency methods) was applied to the patient work-flow process to reduce the time from referral to listing for transplant or MCS implant. During this analysis, synergies between the components of the integrated program were enhanced by creating a single Intake Coordinator, developing a Director of Outreach to expand direct-to-clinician contact, promoting tighter integration of outpatient follow-up, and implementing an information management system to improve patient selection, review outcomes, and provide early feedback to referring clinicians. Results Creating a Single Point Of Contact for referrals improved communication with referring physicians and transmission of patient records. The average time to transplant listing or MCS implant decision was reduced to 22 days, and patient follow-up was improved. All 3 program components benefitted – Heart transplants increased by 50%, MCS implants grew 30% (to 60 implants/yr), and Heart Failure Cardiology Clinic referrals increased over 100%. Adding dedicated clinical outreach and education enhanced clinician engagement and expanded the number of referring centers, while promoting constructive feedback. Conclusions Creation of an integrated Intake pathway and an integrated clinical outreach program foster coordination of the 3major components of the Advanced Cardiac Care program, expand the patient referral base, improve communication with referring partners, and streamline patient triage and work-up processes. Innovative approaches to maximize efficiency will be increasingly required as healthcare organizations reduce costs and grapple with a constrained reimbursement environment.