cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cell Type-specific Inhibition of the ETS Transcription Factor ER81 by Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase-activated Protein Kinase 2

Mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2) is an important intracellular mediator of stress signals. In this report, a novel target of MK2 has been identified, the ETS transcription factor family member ER81, whose dysregulation contributes to tumorigenesis and whose normal function is required during development. MK2 phosphorylates ER81 in vitro within its central inhibitory domain, and overexpression of MK2 leads to increased in vivo phosphorylation of ER81. Two serine residues, ER81 amino acids 191 and 216, were identified as MK2 phosphorylation sites. MK2 suppresses basal ER81-dependent transcription, and this suppressive effect is alleviated upon mutation of the MK2 phosphorylation sites in a cell type-specific manner. However, MK2 can also interfere with ER81-mediated transcription independently of serine 191 and serine 216 phosphorylation. Furthermore, MK2 overexpression counteracts the stimulation of ER81 activity by p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Altogether, MK2 may regulate ER81 transcriptional activity in a cell type-specific manner and thereby modulate various physiological processes beyond stress responses.
Insightful Solution of a Geometry Problem with Instructional Cues: I. Group Experiments:

The purpose was (1) to determine empirically the extent of insight exhibited by 429 high school and college students in solving a geometry problem directly solvable by insight without mathematical computations and (2) to study the effects of instructional cues and educational status. Educational status ranged from high school through college freshmen to upper-division students. Insightful solutions were achieved by about 4% of the participants under Condition I with no cues as a control, about 3% under Condition II where an unsolvable Pythagorean equation with two unknown sides was given, about 13% under Condition III giving a solvable Pythagorean equation with two sides of known lengths, and about 16% under Condition IV with an instructional cue that diagonals of a rectangle are equal. The last condition and the combined results suggest insightful solution increases with educational status. Two types of noninsightful responses were noted: empty or no answer and wrong response or incorrect approach throug...
Diagnostic Classification Models: Are they Necessary? Commentary on Rupp and Templin (2008)

In their paper Unique Characteristics of Diagnostic Classification Models: A Comprehensive Review of the Current State-of-the-Art, Andre Rupp and Jonathan Templin (2008) provide a comparative analy...
Regulation by lipolytic and antilipolytic compounds of the phosphorylation of specific proteins in isolated intact fat cells

Abstract The effects of various lipolytic and antilipolytic compounds on the phosphorylation of specific proteins, on lipolysis, and on cyclic AMP levels have been studied in isolated intact fat cells of rats. Norepinephrine (NE), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), and monobutyryl cyclic AMP (MBcAMP) each increased the incorporation of [ 32 P] into three proteins, with apparent molecular weights of approximately 130,000 (protein A), 69,000 (protein B), and 47,000 (protein C), as determined by gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (DodSO 4 − ). The concentrations of lipolytic agents necessary to obtain a half-maximal increase in phosphorylation of these proteins were similar to the concentrations necessary to obtain a half-maximal stimulation of lipolysis. Propranolol, a β-adrenergic blocking agent, blocked the effects of NE both on protein phosphorylation and on lipolysis, but did not modify the effects of ACTH, IBMX, or MBcAMP on these parameters. When the NE-induced increase in phosphorylation of proteins B and C was maximal, addition of propranolol resulted in a rapid dephosphorylation of these proteins and a rapid cessation of lipolysis; under the same experimental conditions, propranolol had almost no effect on the dephosphorylation of protein A. Concentrations of insulin that prevented or reversed the actions of NE and ACTH on lipolysis also prevented or reversed the NE- and ACTH-induced increase in [ 32 P] incorporation into proteins B and C. Insulin did not modify the effects of IBMX or MBcAMP either on lipolysis or on [ 32 P] incorporation into proteins B and C. Insulin increased the incorporation of [ 32 P] into a protein which, by several criteria, appeared to be protein A. Under a variety of experimental conditions in which lipolytic and antilipolytic hormones were studied, the rate of lipolysis correlated well with the level of phosphorylation of proteins B and C, but not with the level of cyclic AMP.
Tissue-specific stimulation of RNA synthesis by transformed estradiol-receptor complex*

Summary Exposure to the estradiol-receptor complex of uterine cytosol increases the RNA synthetic capacity of purified uterine nuclei but not of liver or kidney nuclei. This stimulation is effected only by complex in which the binding unit of the receptor has undergone estrogen-induced conversion from the native (4S) to the transformed (5S) form. It is suggested that an important function of estrogenic hormone is to promote transformation of the receptor protein to an active form which can enter the nucleus and stimulate RNA synthesis.
Population differences in larval hostplant use in the checkerspot butterfly, Euphydryas chalcedona

Larvae from two populations of Euphydryas chalcedona Doubleday & Hewitson (Nymphalidae) were reared on their own hostplant and that of the other population, in both pre-diapause and post-diapause instars. One population, Chico, uses Penstemon breviflorus Lindl. (Scrophulariaceae), and the other, Echo Lake, uses P. newberryi Gray. Growth rate and survival were determined for pre-diapause and post-diapause larvae from both populations on both plant species; and digestive efficiencies were calculated during the prediapause instars. The results showed that larvae from the two populations differed in their responses to the two plant species. Pre-diapause larvae from Chico performed equally well on both plant species - survival and digestive indices were not significantly different for two Penstemon species. In contrast, pre-diapause larvae from Echo Lake performed significantly worse on the non-hostplant - growth and survival were significantly lower on the non-host, P. breviflorus. In addition, comparison of digestive efficiencies for the two plants showed that larvae from Echo Lake digested P. breviflorus better than P. newberryi, but were significantly less able to convert P. breviflorus to body mass. In the post-diapause instars, larvae from Chico grew faster on the host than on the non-host. Larvae from Echo Lake grew quite slowly on both plant species and significantly more of the Echo Lake larvae returned to diapause instead of completing development. RESUME Utilisations differentes de plantes hotes par des populations d'Euphydryas chalcedona (Lep. Nymphalidae) Des chenilles de deux populations d'E. chalcedona ont ete elevees sur leur propre plante-hote et sur celle de l'autre population, aux stades avant et apres diapause. Les deux populations s'alimentent sur differentes especes de Penstemon (Scrophulariaceae), et une population - Echo Lake - est monophage sur P. newberry, tandis que l'autre - Chico - utilise d'abord P. breviflorus, mais les chenilles apres diapause sont trouvees sur au moins deux autres especes de plantes. Les taux de croissance et de survie ont ete determines pour des chenilles avant et apres diapause pour les deux populations sur les deux plantes; les efficacites digestives ont ete calculees sur les chenilles avant diapause. Les resultats ont montre que les chenilles des deux populations differaient par leur degre de specialisation digestive sur leur plante hote normale: les chenilles de Chico ont utilise aussi bien les deux plantes, tandis que celles d'Echo Lake le faisaient significativement moins bien sur la plante non-hote, par suite de l'inaptitude a la digerer. Ainsi la population oligophage est alimentairement moins specialisee et plus capable de se debrouiller avec une plante non-hote. Apres diapause, les chenilles de Chico s'alimentaient significativement mieux sur plante hote que non-hote, ce qui etait le cas aussi pour la population monophage. Dans l'ensemble, les chenilles de la population monophage semblaient moins capables de se debrouiller dans des conditions defavorables ou moins avantageuses.
Safety and tolerability of high-intensity anticoagulation with bivalirudin during neuroendovascular procedures.

Bivalirudin (Angiomax) is a direct thrombin inhibitor used in interventional cardiology due to its several distinct advantages over heparin, most notably a shorter half-life and a potentially superior safety profile. Bivalirudin is also safe to use in patients with active or remote heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Our objective was to evaluate the safety and tolerability of high-intensity anticoagulation using bivalirudin during neuroendovascular procedures. The bivalirudin dosing regimens reported in the cardiac literature were modified empirically for two different activated clotting time (ACT) target ranges. The low-dose protocol (ACT of 250 to 300 s) was used for embolization procedures and the high-dose protocol (ACT of 300–350) was employed for angioplasty and stent placement. The bivalirudin treated patients were matched for age, gender, and type of procedure with a random sample of patients who underwent neuroendovascular procedures with the standardized heparin protocol. The thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications were compared between the two groups and bleeding complications were categorized as major (hemorrhage that was intra-cerebral or resulted in Hb decrease ≥ 5 g/dl), minor, or insignificant. Bivalirudin was used in 30 patients with high-dose and low-dose bivalirudin protocols used in 26 and 4 patients, respectively. These were compared to the 60 control patients who received heparin. There were no bleeding or thromboembolic complications in the bivalirudin treated patients; however one patient reported a transient headache. In patients treated with heparin, one bleeding complication of a groin hematoma was reported. Also one patient was found to have left-arm weakness following the procedure which was attributed to a new small middle cerebral artery ischemic event. Our data supports that bivalirudin usage is likely a safe alternative to heparin for high-intensity anticoagulation in neuroendovascular procedures. Further studies are required for more definitive comparisons for efficacy and cost-effectiveness between the two agents.
Modeling postshock evolution of large electropores

The Smoluchowski equation (SE), which describes the evolution of pores created by electric shocks, cannot be applied to modeling large and long-lived pores for two reasons: (1) it does not predict pores of radius above 20 nm without also predicting membrane rupture; (2) it does not predict postshock growth of pores. This study proposes a model in which pores are coupled by membrane tension, resulting in a nonlinear generalization of SE. The predictions of the model are explored using examples of homogeneous (all pore radii r are equal) and heterogeneous (0<or=r<or=r(max)) distributions of pores. Pores in a homogeneous population either shrink to zero or assume a stable radius corresponding to the minimum of the bilayer energy. For a heterogeneous population, such a stable radius does not exist. All pores, except r(max), shrink to zero and r(max) grows to infinity. However, the unbounded growth of r(max) is not physical because the number of pores per cell decreases in time and the continuum model loses validity. When the continuum formulation is replaced by the discrete one, the model predicts the coarsening process: all pores, except r(max), shrink to zero and r(max) assumes a stable radius. Thus, the model with tension-coupled pores does not predict membrane rupture and the predicted postshock growth of pores is consistent with experimental evidence.
Genetic background but not metallothionein phenotype dictates sensitivity to cadmium-induced testicular injury in mice.

Abstract Sensitivity to cadmium (Cd)-induced testicular injury varies greatly among mouse strains. For instance, 129/SvJ (129) mice are highly sensitive while C57BL/6J (C57) mice are refractory to Cd-induced testicular injury. Metallothionein (MT), a Cd-binding protein, is thought to be responsible for the strain susceptibility to Cd toxicity. In this study, MT-I/II knockout (MT-null) and wild-type 129 mice were used to determine the role of MT in Cd-induced testicular injury. Two additional strains of mice (C57 and the C57 × 129 F1cross) were also used to help define the role of genetic background in Cd toxicity. Mice were given 5–20 μmol/kg ip CdCl2 and testicular injury was examined 24 h later by histopathology and testicular hemoglobin concentration. Cd produced dose-dependent testicular injury in all strains of mice, except for C57 mice, in which testicular injury could not be produced. MT-null mice were more sensitive than C57 × 129 mice but were equally sensitive as 129 mice to Cd-induced testicular injury. Fourteen days after 15 μmol/kg ip Cd administration, testicular atrophy was evident in MT-null, 129, and C57 × 129 mice but was absent in C57 mice. The resistance of C57 mice to Cd-induced testicular injury could not be attributed solely to a decreased uptake of 109Cd nor to a greater amount of testicular MT. Microarray analysis revealed a higher expression of glutathione peroxidase in the testes of C57 mice, as well as genes encoding antioxidant components and DNA damage/repair, but their significance to Cd-induced injury is not immediately clear. Thus, this study demonstrates that it is genetic strain, not MT genotype, that is mechanistically important in determining susceptibility to Cd-induced testicular injury.
Active calcium ion transport Xenopus laevis skin.

The skin of intact, free-swimming Xenopus laevis transports Ca2+ inwardly in a manner that is proportional to the external [Ca2+] up to about 0.3 mmol.l-1, saturates above 0.3 mmol.l-1, and is opposed to the electrochemical gradient. Efflux is relatively constant at external concentrations between 0.016 and 0.6 mmol.l-1; net flux which is negative below 0.125 mmol.l-1 becomes positive above this external [Ca2+]. Allometric analysis suggests that both Ca2+ influx and efflux scale to the 2/3 power approximately like surface area. There were no significant differences in influx between summer and fall animals; however, efflux was greater in the fall and this resulted in a change from positive balance in the summer to negative balance in the fall. Isolated skins were shown to support a Ca2+ uptake rate of nearly 30 nmol.cm-2.h-1. The phenylalkylamine verapamil in the apical bathing solution significantly inhibited this at 25 mumol.l-1. The benzothiazepine diltiazem was also effective at 50 mumol.l-1 while the dihydropyradine nifedipine was ineffective up to 100 mumol.l-1. The inorganic ion La3+ was effective at blocking Ca2+ uptake at 300 mumol.l-1; Ni2+ was also effective at 500 mumol.l-1 but Co2+ was ineffective up to 500 mumol.l-1. These results suggest that apical calcium channels in Xenopus laevis skin have properties similar to mammalian L-channels and fish gill Ca2+ channels.
Geochronologic Study of Granitic Rocks from the Okanogan Range, North-Central Washington

The results of rubidium-strontium, fission-track, and lead-alpha analyses are evaluated in terms of the regional and local geological framework of the Okanogan Range (in Washington and British Columbia). An Upper Cretaceous (81± m.y.) granodioritic-quartz monzomtic intrusive episode and a Middle Cretaceous (104± m.y.) period of isotopic homogemzation of a trondhjemitic batholith are defined. A period of Jurassic regional metamorphism and late-metamorphic quartz dioritic-granodioritic emplacement, although not established, is suggested; the minimum age of this orogenic phase is 129± m.y.
Theory of Systematic Absence of NaCl-Type ( β -Sn–Type) High Pressure Phases in Covalent (Ionic) Semiconductors

Recent high pressure x-ray experiments show that, contrary to traditional expectations, the NaCl structure is not present in covalent semiconductors, and the diatomic $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{Sn}$ structure is absent in all compound semiconductors. We explain these systematic absences in terms of dynamical phonon instabilities of the NaCl and $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{Sn}$ crystal structures. Covalent materials in the NaCl structure become dynamically unstable with respect to the transverse acoustic TA[001] phonon, while ionic compounds in the $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{Sn}$ structure exhibit phonon instabilities in the longitudinal optical $\mathrm{LO}[00\ensuremath{\xi}]$ branch. The latter lead to predicted new high pressure phases of octet semiconductors.
Concentration gradient limiter designs for incident plane waves and multiple chromophores

A design method for reverse saturable absorbing (RSA) dye concentration gradient limiters, termed here the Absorption Diffraction Balance (ADB) design method, is used to produce designs for multiple chromophores and is extended to allow incident plane waves. The ADB design method is reviewed for Gaussian beams applied to a constant fluence design and a linear fluence design. These two designs are combined to allow different dyes to be used in different portions of the limiter. It is found that this hybrid design significantly enhances performance under some circumstances. It is also shown to reduce the probability of dye photodegradation. The ADB design method is extended to allow for incident plane waves or a top-hat beam profile. The field at the geometric shadow edge, expressed in terms of Lommel functions, is shown to closely match the Gaussian field when the incident irradiance, power, and second moments are the same. Since the irradiance distribution is not monotonically increasing in the focal region, the required concentration distribution has regions of negative concentration, i.e. gain regions. These designs are useful for initiating numerical nonlinear beam propagation studies.
Obstructing hamartoma of Brunner's glands of the duodenum

A large obstructing hamartoma of Brunner's glands in a 46-year-old male was excised through gastrotomy. Its clinical, radiological, and pathological features are briefly discussed.
Comparison of radiobiologic modeling for one- and two-isocenter dose distributions applied to ellipsoidal radiosurgery targets.

Abstract Purpose: RTOG protocol 90-05 determined the maximum acutely tolerated dose of single-fraction radiosurgery in patients receiving prior fractionated large volume cranial irradiation. Data from 90-05 have suggested that patients treated with a gamma unit, compared to linac-based therapy, have a tumor control advantage and lower rates of severe complications. This study was performed to investigate the radiobiologic effect of using one vs. two isocenters in single-fraction radiosurgery of ellipsoidal targets. Methods and Materials: For a series of ellipsoidal targets that varied by volume and radiosensitivity, single and two-isocenter treatment plans were generated to approximate those typically employed for gamma unit and linac radiosurgery. Tumor control probabilities (TCP) and normal tissue complication probabilities (NTCP) were generated automatically by the treatment planning system based on established parameter values. Results: The modeling data showed that multiple-isocenter plans resulted in improved TCP with equivalent or lesser NTCP, particularly for larger, radioresistant targets. Multiple-isocenter plans reduce the amount of normal tissue that receives high dose. Also, areas within the tumor receive significantly higher doses than the prescription dose, which contributes to increased tumor cell inactivation. Conclusion: For ellipsoidal targets, radiobiologic modeling data are consistent with the clinical findings of the RTOG 90-05 trial, as they predict improved outcome with a multiple-isocenter plan relative to a single-isocenter plan. The benefit is most apparent with increasing target volume and decreasing tumor radiosensitivity.
Perceived difficulty and self-efficacy in the factor structure of perceived behavioral control to seek drug information from physicians and pharmacists.

Abstract Background In the Theory of Planned Behavior, perceived behavioral control (PBC) has been directly measured in 3 different ways, ie, perceived difficulty, self-efficacy, and controllability. To better assess PBC, it is important to examine the relationship among these concepts. Objective This study explored the relationship of perceived difficulty and self-efficacy in the factor structure of PBC, and examined the impact of controllability on this relationship. The study context was osteoarthritis patients' drug information seeking from physicians and pharmacists for advertised antiarthritic prescription medications. Methods One thousand patients were randomly selected from 3000 nationwide osteoarthritis patients. A self-administered survey collected perceived difficulty (3 items), self-efficacy (3 items), and controllability (2 items) of drug information seeking from physicians and pharmacists. Exploratory factor analyses using principal axis factoring with oblique rotation were conducted for each information source for perceived difficulty and self-efficacy items by (1) the Kaiser criterion and the scree plots, and (2) extracting 2 factors. The 2-factor factor loadings were examined by the extent of controllability. For each information source, 2-factor principal factor analyses were performed for those who reported high control over the behavior and those who reported low control. Results The response rate was 61.9%. Perceived difficulty and self-efficacy loaded on the same factor when the Kaiser criterion and the scree plots were used. They loaded on separate factors when forced into the 2-factor structure. The 2-factor structure for the group with low control had more cross loadings than the 2-factor solution for the group reporting high control of information search. Conclusions Perceived difficulty and self-efficacy may represent 2 dimensions of an overall concept. Controllability impacts whether perceived difficulty and self-efficacy overlap or diverge, with higher controllability associated with distinct dimensions.
Sintering studies of rare-earth iron laves phase magnetostrictive compounds

Abstract Powder metallurgical techniques were used to prepare high density rare-earth iron Laves phase based magnetostrictive alloys. The rare-earth content of the alloys must be in excess of the stoichiometric composition in order to prevent the formation of oxygen stabilized intermetallic compounds. Solid state sintering leads to low density products. High density can be achieved by employing a liquid phase sintering approach. The magnetostrictive properties of the sintered products are comparable to those reported on cast samples.
Scattering of Electromagnetic Radiation from a Black Hole

The problem of propagation of electromagnetic waves in a gravitational field can be reduced to the problem of wave propagation in a material medium in flat space-time. This method is used here to calculate the scattering cross section of a Schwarzschild black hole and the polarization of the scattered wave. It is shown that the polarization of the wave (as measured at infinity) is not affected by the presence of the spherically symmetric gravitational field of the black hole. The light scattered from a rotating or "live" black hole is, however, expected to be polarized for an incident unpolarized plane wave. This may offer a new way to detect a live black hole.
Peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans-Isomerase A1 (Pin1) Is a Target for Modification by Lipid Electrophiles

Oxidation of membrane phospholipids is associated with inflammation, neurodegenerative disease, and cancer. Oxyradical damage to phospholipids results in the production of reactive aldehydes that adduct proteins and modulate their function. 4-Hydroxynonenal (HNE), a common product of oxidative damage to lipids, adducts proteins at exposed Cys, His, or Lys residues. Here, we demonstrate that peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans-isomerase A1 (Pin1), an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of the peptide bond of pSer/pThr-Pro moieties in signaling proteins from cis to trans, is highly susceptible to HNE modification. Incubation of purified Pin1 with HNE followed by MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry resulted in detection of Michael adducts at the active site residues His-157 and Cys-113. Time and concentration dependencies indicate that Cys-113 is the primary site of HNE modification. Pin1 was adducted in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with 8-alkynyl-HNE as judged by click chemistry conjugation with biotin followe...
A psychophysiological study of self and externally regulated phobic thoughts

The responses to internal self-regulated and external modes of presentation of phobic and nonphobic stimuli were compared. Thirty-six phobic subjects were assigned to three groups. All subjects experienced a 10-sec presentation of a stimulus, followed by a 10-sec interval in which the subject formed an image to the preceding stimulus. Self-regulated internally elicited phobic thoughts produce as much and, at times, greater subjective anxiety, fear, and physiological activity than similar thoughts triggered externally by pictures or verbal statements about phobic objects. These findings are relevant to current psychological treatment approaches, such as behavior therapy, rational emotive therapy, self-regulation, and biofeedback procedures.
Marginal analysis prioritization for image compression based on a hierarchical wavelet decomposition

A novel approach for jointly optimizing scalar quantization and tree-based quantization of hierarchical wavelet decompositions is presented. An image compression algorithm is developed around this approach, utilizing a pruned-tree image representation. Marginal analysis is applied to optimize jointly the pruned-tree representation and scalar quantization. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm offer substantially improved signal-to-noise ratio at matching bit rates, compared with similarly structured compression algorithms. >
The dangers of reform: state building and national minorities in Georgia

Was the South Ossetian war of August 2008 inevitable? Although conditions between the Georgian, South Ossetian and Russian political leadership had hardened into seemingly intractable positions from 1991–2008, the manner and timing of the August war were not certain. Analysts of the events, seeking to show Georgian culpability, argue that the personality and authoritarian style of Mikheil Saakashvili led to a nationalistic policy that aimed to undermine the interests of Georgia's national minorities. While the Georgian national minority policy was not overtly chauvinistic and certainly not indicative of a full-scale crackdown on the secessionist territories, particular centralizing characteristics of Georgia's state-building programme, some of them necessary reforms after over a decade of political stagnation under Shevardnadze, contributed to the increasing tensions that were part of the lead up to the South Ossetian war.
A multiscale modeling of Thermoelectric Generators for conversion efficiency optimization

An attractive option for constructing Thermoelectric Generators (TEGs) is to incorporate a water-fed heat exchanger with commercially available thermoelectric modules. A major design concern to such an implementation is the heat exchanger geometry. In this study, a thorough performance evaluation of TEGs embedded in 30 configurations is conducted through simulations to optimize thermoelectric systems for maximum power output. The cross-sectional area of a single channel is decreased gradually, while total pressure drop across the flows is maintained constant. It is found that for the configurations analyzed, the conversion efficiencies are significantly improved by implementing the water-fed heat exchanger at the micro-scale. In addition, effects of variation of channel length for the initially-studied thermoelectric schemes are studied. It is shown that a reduction of channel length may result in promoted power generation. Finally, a theoretical analysis of inlet temperature is performed to provide practical guidelines for designing TEGs in a conversion capability sense.
From big data to insights: opportunities and challenges for TEI in genomics

The combination of advanced genomic technologies and computational tools enables researchers to conduct large-scale experiments that answer biological questions in unprecedented ways. However, interaction tools in this area currently remain immature. We propose that tangible, embedded, and embodied interaction (TEI) offers unique opportunities for enhancing discovery and learning in genomics. Also, designing for problems in genomics can help move forward the theory and practice of TEI. We present challenges and key questions for TEI research in genomics, lessons learned from three case studies, and potential areas of focus for TEI research and design.
Smoking and Menstrual Disorders

An association between cigarette smoking and menstrual disorders was observed during 1981 in a sample of 1367 women between the ages of 18 and 44 years in selected communities of Los Angeles County. Relevant questions were asked as part of a survey conducted to investigate the general health status of women living in these communities. The five-year period prevalence of physician-attended menstrual disorders, as reported in the survey, was 20.3%; the prevalence of menstrual disorders was higher among smokers (25.1%) than among nonsmokers (18.6%). Women who smoked 1 1/2 packs of cigarettes or more per day were twice as likely to report past menstrual disorders as women who were nonsmokers. The results, though inconclusive, warrant further investigation.
Testing Contest Theory: Evidence from Best-of-Three Tennis Matches

Abstract We study strategic choice of effort in best-of-three contests between equally skilled players. Economic theory predicts such contests are more likely to end in two rounds than in three. If, however, a contest reaches a third round, each player is equally likely to win. We test these predictions with data from professional tennis matches, using betting odds to identify equally skilled opponents. The empirical results support the theoretical predictions, suggesting players strategically adjust efforts during a best-of-three contest.
Hydrogen isotope fractionation during lipid biosynthesis by Tetrahymena thermophila

Abstract Hydrogen isotope ratio values of lipids are increasingly used to reconstruct past variation in hydrological conditions. However, apart from recording the hydrogen isotope composition of ambient water, δD values of lipids also depend on specific biosynthetic pathways and growth conditions. We have evaluated the hydrogen isotope fractionation by the ciliated protozoan, Tetrahymena thermophila , grown in pure culture at three temperatures (24 °C, 30 °C and 36 °C) and in water with a range of hydrogen isotope composition. T. thermophila synthesizes tetrahymanol, a pentacyclic triterpenoid alcohol and the diagenetic precursor of the biomarker gammacerane. We focused our attention on the isotopic controls on tetrahymanol and various fatty acids (FAs). The δD values of FAs and tetrahymanol correlated linearly with the hydrogen isotope composition of water, but growth temperature was also clearly an important factor controlling lipid D/H compositon. Hydrogen isotope fractionation during tetrahymanol biosynthesis changed with higher growth temperatures, resulting in D-depleted signatures relative to water at 24 °C and 30 °C and D-enriched composition at 36 °C. T. thermophila grown at 36 °C – a temperature above opitmum growth conditions – showed a significant change in lipid composition, with the abundance of tetrahymanol increasing relative to total FAs. We suggest the change is a response to temperature stress and a decrease in the stability of the cell membrane. The temperature effect is also presumed to impact δD lipid by altering the hydrogen isotopic composition of NADPH and potentially intracellular water.
Indium tin oxide modified by titanium dioxide nanoparticles dispersed in poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) for use as an electron-collecting layer in organic solar cells with an inverted structure

We report on the photovoltaic properties of polymer solar cells with an inverted structure wherein the electron-collecting electrode comprises an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode coated with titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles dispersed into poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP). The optimization of performance of polymer solar cells in which the TiO2 concentration in PVP was varied is presented. Pristine solar cells with the TiO2:PVP-coated ITO electrodes showed S-shape current-voltage characteristics. The S-shaped feature disappeared after the continuous exposure of the solar cells to light from an AM 1.5G solar simulator, leading to an improved device performance compared with solar cells that use an ITO or ITO/TiO2 electron-collecting electrodes.
Prolonged Toxicity following Massive Ingestion of Sustained-release Theophylline Preparation

Massive ingestion of sustained-release theophylline preparations in three patients was treated with gastric lavage and repeated dosages of orally-administered activated charcoal. Therapy was initiated promptly; however, two patients had their highest theophylline levels documented six to 12 hours after ingestion, and theophylline levels on arrival at the hospital were significantly lower than the maximal level documented. All three patients had prolonged elevations of the level, with markedly delayed half-lives of the drug. Overdosages due to sustained release preparations may lead to prolonged toxicity and require aggressive and continuous therapy.
Low-temperature preparation of crystalline barium sulfide

Barium sulfide (BaS) is a compound with many uses, both commercially and in the scientific research world. Normally, BaS is prepared from the high-temperature reduction of barite (BaSO4) with carbon, a process that eliminates CO2 as a by-product. Temperatures during the reduction step can be as high as 1200 °C. We now demonstrate that barium disilylamides can be used as precursors to the formation of crystalline BaS in their reactions with hydrogen sulfide gas. As a major advantage, the temperature of BaS production can be lowered to 25–200 °C. The by-products formed during the reaction are ammonium sulfides, resulting from the acid–base reaction of the liberated amines with excess H2S. Fortunately, these salts decompose thermally in vacuum under mild conditions. As determined by X-ray powder diffraction, the BaS formed in this reaction is crystalline, in the face-centered cubic space group Fm3m. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lead-Induced Accumulation of β-Amyloid in the Choroid Plexus: Role of Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor Protein-1 and Protein Kinase C

The choroid plexus (CP), constituting the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier, has the capacity to remove beta-amyloid (Ab) from the cerebrospinal fluid. Our previous work indicates that exposure to lead (Pb) results in Ab accumulation in the CP by decreasing the expression of low density lipoprotein receptor protein-1 (LRP1), a protein involved in the transport and clearance of Ab. The current study was designed to explore the relationship between Ab accumulation, protein kinase C (PKC) activity, and LRP1 status in the CP following Pb exposure. Confocal microscopy revealed that LRP1 was primarily localized in the cytosol of the CP in control rats and migrated distinctly towards the apical surface and the microvilli following acute Pb exposure (27 mg Pb/kg, i.p., 24 h). Co-immunostaining revealed a co-localization of both PKC-d and LRP1 in the cytosol of control rats, with a distinct relocalization of both towards the apical membrane following Pb exposure. Preincubation of the tissues with PKC-d inhibitor rottlerin (2 mM) prior to Pb exposure in vitro, resulted in abolishing the Pb-induced relocalization of LRP1 to the apical surface. Importantly, a significant elevation in intracellular Ab levels (p < 0.01) was observed in the cytosol of the CP following Pb exposure, which was abolished following preincubation with rottlerin. In addition, rottlerin caused a relocalization of Ab from the cytosol to the nucleus in both Pb-treated and control CP tissues. Finally, co-immunoprecipitation studies revealed a strong protein-protein interaction between LRP1 and PKC-d in the CP. These studies suggest that Pb exposure disrupts Ab homeostasis at the CP, owing partly to a Pb-induced relocalization of LRP1 via PKC-d.
Network authentication tokens

Network users may be authenticated by different means and from a variety of locations. Once authenticated, the user's access should be consistent with the strength of the authentication. The author examines one possible method for determining the authentication strength and conveying this information within a distributed network. The approach discussed uses a token composed of a unique user ID and an authentication level. The token is sent along with the request for establishing a remote session. Once the token is received, the remote location determines user access based solely on the authentication token. >
Negative emotional and cognitive responses to being unfriended on Facebook: An exploratory study

We consider Facebook unfriending as a form of relationship termination with negative emotional and cognitive consequences. Specifically, ruminative and negative emotional responses are examined via an online survey of adult Facebook users who were unfriended. These responses were positively related to each other and to Facebook intensity. Rumination was positively predicted by using Facebook to connect with existing contacts and was more likely when the unfriender was a close partner. Participants also responded with greater rumination and negative emotion when they knew who unfriended them, when they thought they were unfriended for Facebook-related reasons, and when participants initiated the Facebook friend request. The contribution of these exploratory findings to our growing understanding of negative relational behaviors on Facebook are discussed.
The Relationship of Insulin Sensitivity and Metabolic Clearance of Insulin to Adiposity and Sex Hormone Binding Globulin

Previous studies have shown that sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is negatively associated with insulin concentrations in premenopausal women. We determined insulin sensitivity (SI) and clearance (KI) in 8 non-obese men and 13 nonobese premenopausal women using the minimal model of Bergman and colleagues. Insulin clearance and insulin sensitivity were strongly correlated (p<0.05). SHBG was positively correlated with SI (i.e., individuals with high levels of SHBG had greater insulin sensitivity) in both men (r=.738, p<0.05) and women (r=.577, p<0.06). Insulin clearance was also positively correlated with SHBG in men (r=.619) and in women (r=.476) (0.05<p<0.10). Since
Local Identities of Poverty: Poverty Narratives in Decentralised Government and the Role of Poverty Research in Uganda

This paper takes as its point of departure recent research that suggests pro-poor policies are more likely to be supported by central elites than local elites, and that, in contexts where there is significant decentralization of government, central government may need to challenge local elite resistance to ensure effective implementation of those policies. The paper explores whether poverty reduction strategies can be made more effective use of research to effect a `re-identification` of the nature and causes of poverty. It focuses on Urganda, where research has had a high profile in the government`s Poverty Eradication Action Plan, particularly through the Uganda National Household Survey (UNHS), and the Uganda Participatory Poverty Assessment Programme (UPPAP). The paper examines the methodology and impact of these research programmes. It argues that the UNHS could, with appropriate changes in how expenditure is interpreted in terms of well-being, be useful as an indicator of national poverty trends, but sample structure constrains its application as a means of monitoring decentralized delivery of poverty-reduction programmes. The current UPPAP methodology provides a rich source of detail on the nature of poverty in Uganda, but the validity of its findings is undermined by emphasis on aggregation of local information to national level with consequent loss of contextualised understanding of social processes creating poverty. The paper argues that, in illuminating such processses, a more rigorous application of qualitative research method would challenge assumptions about the `residual` nature of poverty that underlie both `participatory research` and decentralization as a strategies of poverty reduction.
Detection of herpes simplex virus DNA in the peripheral blood during acute recurrent herpes labialis

Background: Although herpes simplex virus (HSV) has been detected in the peripheral blood of immunocompromised patients and in neonates with disseminated disease, the extent to which this virus may be present in the blood during a localized infection in otherwise healthy adults is unknown. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether HSV may be detected in the peripheral blood during acute recurrent herpes labialis. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from otherwise healthy adults with recurrent herpes labialis, both during an acute episode and several weeks after the lesions had healed. The PBMCs were examined for the presence of HSV with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and viral culture. Results: By PCR, HSV DNA was detected in 7 of 34 specimens from an acute episode but in none of 24 specimens in the convalescent stage (p Conclusion: The presence of HSV DNA in the blood is a transient phenomenon limited to the period of active infection in a minority of patients with herpes labialis, although it may be important in the development of disseminated disease as well as in the pathogenesis of herpes-associated cutaneous processes such as erythema multiforme.
Serologic Responses to Somatic 0 and Colonization-Factor Antigens of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli in Travelers

To improve the retrospective diagnoses of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) as a cause of travelers' diarrhea, as well as to determine the presence of colonization-factor antigens in these infections, a study of serologic responses to antigens of ETEC was done. Paired sera from 60 United States students in Cholula, Puebla, Mexico, were analyzed for rises in titer of antibody to heat-labile toxin, eight somatic antigen O serogroups associated with ETEC, and two colonization-factor antigens, CFA/I and CFA/II. Only 9% had a response to O antigens, while 20% had responses to the colonization-factor antigens. Response to the colonization-factor antigens correlated significantly with response to the heat-labile toxin and with culture evidence of ETEC infection. Serologic studies confirmed that colonization-factor antigen has a role in naturally acquired cases of travelers' diarrhea and that it can be used as an additional determinant of infection with ETEC.
Admiral godfrey's mission to America, June/July 1941

(1986). Admiral godfrey's mission to America, June/July 1941. Intelligence and National Security: Vol. 1, No. 3, pp. 441-450.
In Vivo Assessment of Retinal Carotenoids: Macular Pigment Detection Techniques and Their Impact on Monitoring Pigment Status

Of the many carotenoids found within human tissue, only the carotenoids within the human retina can be assessed noninvasively at present. Such assessment should eventually provide a more complete understanding of the functional role of retinal lutein (L) and zeaxanthin (Z) (termed macular pigment, MP) in human vision. The emerging data allow for some initial observations. For example, there appears to be wide variation (>factor of 10) in the concentration of MP. Although MP levels have been recorded from nondetectable to 1.20 OD (optical density), the average levels, relative to what is possible, appear low. This may be due in part to the low average dietary intake of L and Z in the typical U.S. diet. Nonetheless, individual differences in MP may also be influenced by nondietary factors such as genetics, demographics and lifestyle characteristics. Some evidence indicates that the MP carotenoids may protect the retina and lens, and could improve vision through some optical mechanisms. Consequently, efforts to determine typical MP levels and the factors that influence individual differences in MP density should be continued.
Image Displacements on a Tilted Panoramic Photograph

There are three image displacements inherent in aerial panoramic photogz-raphy which are not present in the more conventional frame and strip record. They are: 1) panora"mic distortion arising from the cylindrical format, 2) sweep motion displacement due to the movement of the aircraft and 3) image motion compensation displacements caused by the changing positions of the lens relative to the film during sweep. This paper presents a derivation of the latter two displacements, and in addition derives the necessary image motion compensation (IMC) velocity or blur distance for cameras with no IMC. The case considered is the panoramic camera intentionally tilted in the direction of flight. For the vertical panoramic camera the derivation of these displace-ments has previously been published in "Photogrammetric Engineering" and is therefore not included.
What is the extent of research on the characteristics, behaviors, and impacts of health information technology champions? A scoping review.

Although champions are commonly employed in health information technology (HIT) implementations, the state of empirical literature on HIT champions’ is unclear. The purpose of our review was to synthesize quantitative and qualitative studies to identify the extent of research on the characteristics, behaviors, and impacts of HIT champions. Ultimately, our goal was to identify gaps in the literature and inform implementation science. Our review employed a broad search strategy using multiple databases—Embase, Pubmed, Cinahl, PsychInfo, Web of Science, and the Cochrane library. We identified 1728 candidate articles, of which 42 were retained for full-text review. Of the 42 studies included, fourteen studies employed a multiple-case study design (33 %), 12 additional articles employed a single-case study design (29 %), five used quantitative methods (12 %), two used mixed-methods (5 %), and one used a Delphi methodology (2 %). Our review revealed multiple categories and characteristics of champions as well as influence tactics they used to promote an HIT project. Furthermore, studies have assessed three general types of HIT champion impacts: (1) impacts on the implementation process of a specific HIT; (2) impacts on usage behavior or overall success of a specific HIT; and (3) impacts on general organizational-level innovativeness. However the extent to which HIT projects fail even with a champion and why such failures occur is not clear. Also unclear is whether all organizations require a champion for successful HIT project implementation. In other words, we currently do not know enough about the conditions under which (1) a health IT champion is needed, (2) multiple champions are needed, and (3) an appointed champion—as opposed to an emergent champion—can be successful. Although champions appear to have contributed to successful implementation of HIT projects, simply measuring the presence or absence of a champion is not sufficient for assessing impacts. Future research should aim for answers to questions about who champions should be, when they should be engaged, what they should do, how management can support their efforts, and what their impact is given the organizational context.