cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transverse infilling of the central Aleutian Trench by unconfined turbidity currents

Holocene sand layers cored from the central Aleutian Trench are dominated by volcaniclastic debris, and the only likely source is the central Aleutian volcanic arc. This creates something of an enigma because bathymetric obstructions seemingly prevent direct delivery of sediment via transverse canyons or channels. Turbidity currents are funneled through submarine canyons on the upper trench slope, but the flows become unconfined as they cross the midslope Aleutian Terrace. Evidently, the turbid flows maintain high enough velocities to climb over the trench-slope break; acceleration down the lower trench slope then allows forearc bypassing to occur without the aid of through-going channels.
Effect of applied load on the nondestructive measurement of concrete strength

Nondestructive measurement of the concrete strength is an important topic of research. Among different nondestructive testing (NDT) methods the ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) technique is the most popular method for concrete strength estimation. While measuring concrete strength by this method almost all researchers have neglected the effect of applied stress or load on the concrete member. In this investigation attempts were made to properly incorporate the effect of the applied load on the strength prediction of concrete specimens from UPV value. To achieve this goal, 4 groups of concrete specimens with different values of final strength were made. Materials used for making cylindrical specimens of 3 inch diameter and 6 inch height included regular Portland cement, water and two types of aggregate - fine and coarse. After applying the load on the specimen in multiple steps – up to 70% of its failure strength f c '- the time of flight (TOF) value was measured for every loading step. The recorded results showed that applied load on the member has significant effect on the measured UPV value on concrete specimens. Therefore, to find the strength of the concrete from the UPV value, the applied load on the sample should be considered as an important factor that cannot be neglected.
Do Market‐Supporting Institutional Characteristics Explain Firm Performance? Evidence from Emerging Markets

The importance of market-supporting institutions and their impact on business investment and economic growth has gained the attention of researchers and practitioners alike. In this study, we extend this research by capturing the impact of the quality of regulative institutional characteristics on firm performance in an emerging market context. We use a sample of 26,493 emerging market firms from 91 countries over the years 2003 to 2010 and test for the relationship between government effectiveness, regulatory quality, rule of law and control of corruption, and firm performance. Results indicate that governmental effectiveness and regulatory quality impact performance outcomes positively, while rule of law impacts performance negatively. These findings provide important insights and encourage managers and public policymakers to be cognizant of the impact of these factors and adapt accordingly. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pickled Eggs 1. pH, Rate of Acid Penetration Into EGG Components and Bacteriological Analyses

Abstract The white and yolk components of hard cooked eggs pickled in 3% or 5% acetic acid vinegars reached nearly equal pH values of 4.0–4.1 within six days after preparation. The pH declined rapidly in the egg white with a slower decrease occurring in the yolk. Maximal acetic acid concentrations were attained in the white in one day. Complete penetration of acid through the white to the yolk required 3 to 6 days to reach an equilibrium concentration and was dependent on the initial acid strength of the pickling solution. From day 6 to day 15, only slight changes in pH or acid concentration of the pickling solution, white or yolk were noted. Pickling spice ingredients reduced the initial acid strength of the pickling media (3% or 5%) by 20–23%. Bacteriological analyses of pickling solutions indicate that the pickled eggs were bacteriologically safe.
Neuronal overexpression of cyclooxygenase-2 does not alter the neuroinflammatory response during brain innate immune activation

Neuroinflammation is a critical component in the progression of several neurological and neurodegenerative diseases and cyclooxygenases (COX)-1 and -2 are key regulators of innate immune responses. We recently demonstrated that COX-1 deletion attenuates, whereas COX-2 deletion enhances, the neuroinflammatory response, blood-brain barrier permeability and leukocyte recruitment during lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced innate immune activation. Here, we used transgenic mice, which overexpressed human COX-2 via neuron-specific Thy-1 promoter (TgCOX-2), causing elevated prostaglandins (PGs) levels. We tested whether neuronal COX-2 overexpression affects the glial response to a single intracerebroventricular injection of LPS, which produces a robust neuroinflammatory reaction. Relative to non-transgenic controls (NTg), 7 month-old TgCOX-2 did not show any basal neuroinflammation, as assessed by gene expression of markers of inflammation and oxidative stress, neuronal damage, as assessed by Fluoro-JadeB staining, or systemic inflammation, as assessed by plasma levels of IL-1beta and corticosterone. Twenty-four hours after LPS injection, all mice showed increased microglial activation, as indicated by Iba1 immunostaining, neuronal damage, mRNA expression of cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6), reactive oxygen expressing enzymes (iNOS and NADPH oxidase subunits), endogenous COX-2, cPLA(2) and mPGES-1, and hippocampal and cortical IL-1beta levels. However, the increases were similar in TgCOX-2 and NTg. In NTg, LPS increased brain PGE(2) to the levels observed in TgCOX-2. These results suggest that PGs derived from neuronal COX-2 do not play a role in the neuroinflammatory response to acute activation of brain innate immunity. This is likely due to the direct effect of LPS on glial rather than neuronal cells.
A Study of the Hydrolytic Action of Cascara Sagrada

Abstract Lipolytic and proteolytic determinations have been made on unheated 5 per cent aqueous extracts of the three lots of cascara sagrada bark. Results of experimental work indicate that cascara sagrada possesses no significant lipolytic or proteolytic- like activity. Five per cent heated and unheated extracts of the 1951 lot of cascara sagrada bark showed no significant emulsin-like activity by a modification of the N. F. IX method for the assay of bitter almond oil for benzaldehyde. The hydrolytic agent has been isolated from the 1951 lot of cascara sagrada bark as an impure, light yellow-brown residue by a modified method for the isolation of lysozyme from egg white.
Utilizing the broadcast medium while maintaining per-link information: A practical approach

Military systems are often constrained systems that require per link information to effectively institute QoS policies, route packets, provide topology management, and tunnel application data. Point-to-point over Ethernet (PPPoE) RFC4938/55781 describes a standard radio-to-router interface to provide link information from the radio to the router to enhance routing decisions. Although PPPoE RFC4938/5578 works effectively for directional radios that form point-to-point links, omni-directional radios using this technique incur additional overhead as multicast or broadcast packets are replicated over each PPP tunnel. In this paper, we describe a method to maintain per-link radio information in a standard way, while more effectively utilizing the broadcast medium of omnidirectional radios.2
SIDS and tourette syndrome: Is there an etiologic relationship?

SIDS has been repeatedly linked to the presence of prolonged sleep apnea and defective arousal mechanisms. Multiple cases of SIDS may occur in some families, and siblings of SIDS infants are at a 3 to 10 times greater risk of SIDS than the general population. This suggests genetic factors can play a role. Sleep laboratory studies of adults with Tourette syndrome (TS) show that 23% have sleep apnea and 29% have abnormal arousals. Disorders of arousal such as enuresis, sleep walking, sleep talking, and night terrors are common in children with TS. We report seven TS families in which one or more close relatives died of SIDS, or had apparent life-threatening episode (ALTE) and required apnea monitoring. Serotonin is the major neurotransmitter involved in sleep regulation and abnormalities of serotonin have been implicated in both SIDS and TS. These and other observations suggest that the Tourette syndrome gene (Gts) may be the genetic factor contributing to an increased risk of SIDS.
Neuronal lesions in mercaptopropionic acid-induced status epilepticus.

Neuropathological studies of rats were made after seizures of different durations. Seizures were produced by mercaptopropionic acid in paralyzed, ventilated rats that were perfusion-fixed immediately (acute) or after 2–7 days of recovery (chronic). Analysis of chronic rats, which had only 20-min seizures, showed that damage occurred to several structures including: the substantia nigra pars reticulata, the hypothalamus, the diagonal band of Broca, and the globus pallidus; the damage was worse with longer seizures. In rats perfused acutely no changes were detected in paraffin sections in the aforementioned structures if the length of seizures was 45 min or less. It was concluded that: (1) mercaptopropionic acid-induced seizures cause permanent lesions to specific brain areas, with the most pronounced effect in the substantia nigra pars reticulata; (2) the lesions result from the seizures, and they are roughly proportional to the seizures duration; and (3) permanent lesions may begin within 20 min but require longer times to become visible on light microscopy.
Socio‐economic transition and housing: Lessons from Zimbabwe

(1995). Socio‐economic transition and housing: Lessons from Zimbabwe. Development Southern Africa: Vol. 12, No. 5, pp. 685-699.
Trafficking Properties of the D5 Dopamine Receptor

Dopamine receptors are important for diverse biological functions and are important pharmacological targets in human medicine. Signal transduction from the dopamine receptors is controlled at many levels, including by the process of receptor trafficking. Little is known regarding the endocytic and postendocytic trafficking properties of the D5 dopamine receptor. Here, we show that endocytosis of the D5 receptor can be achieved both homologously, through direct receptor activation by agonist, and also heterologously, due to independent activation of protein kinase C (PKC). In contrast, the D1 receptor is endocytosed only in response to agonist but not PKC activation. We have identified the residue in the third intracellular loop of the D5 receptor that is both necessary for PKC-mediated endocytosis of the D5 receptor and sufficient to induce PKC-mediated endocytosis when introduced to the D1 receptor. In addition, we show that endocytosis of D5 through both pathways is dependent on clathrin and dynamin but that only agonist-induced endocytosis engages β-arrestin 2. Together, these data show that the D5 receptor shows a trafficking profile distinct from that of any of the other dopamine receptors.
Chondrogenic cell subpopulation of chick embryonic calvarium: isolation by peanut agglutinin affinity chromatography and in vitro characterization

The embryonic skull bone, the calvarium, develops via intramembranous ossification, whereby mesenchymal cells differentiate directly into osteoblasts. However, under certain conditions, such as systemic calcium deficiency, regions of cartilage-like tissue are observed in the chick embryonic calvarium, suggesting the presence of pre-cartilage cells. We have recently identified and isolated a chondrogenic cell subpopulation from chick embryonic calvarium by Percoll gradient centrifugation. Using peanut agglutinin (PNA), which has been shown to bind specifically to chondroprogenitor cells in various developing skeletal elements, we have further examined the chondrogenic characteristics of calvarial cells. Histochemical staining of calvaria sections showed the presence of PNA-binding cells in subcambial regions of the calvarium as a function of embryonic development and calcium status. PNA-binding activity was also used as the basis for affinity chromatography fractionation of calvarial cells isolated from normal and calcium-deficient, shell-less chick embryos. A higher percentage of calvarial cells from the normal embryo bound PNA than those from shell-less embryos. Interestingly, more PNA-binding cells were found in the dense, chondrogenic fractions obtained by prior Percoll gradient fractionation of calvarial cells. The chondrogenic potential of the PNA affinity fractionated cells was assessed in culture based on alcian blue staining, and expression of collagen type II and aggrecan core protein, PNA-binding cells isolated from total calvarial cells and from the dense Percoll fractions exhibited a prominent chondrocyte-like phenotype, and were organized in alcian blue-stained nodules, which immunostained positively for collagen type II and aggrecan. Expression of collagen type II was also detected at the mRNA level by means of coupled reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction. On the other hand, non-PNA-binding cells, isolated from total calvarial cells and from the lighter Percoll fractions, were primarily fibroblastic in appearance and did not express cartilage-associated characteristics. The presence of distinct PNA-binding cells with chondrogenic potential strongly suggests that these cells may be functionally important in morphogenesis of the embryonic calvarium.
K+-dependent rebounds and oscillations in respiration-linked movements of CA++ and H+ in rat liver mitochondria.

Abstract This communication reports conditions in which respiration-linked uptake of Ca ++ by rat liver mitochondria (cf. Rossi and Lehninger, 1964 ; Chance, 1965 ) and the accompanying ejection of H + ( Sawis, 1963 ; Drahota et al., 1965 ; Chappell and Crofts, 1965 ) undergo striking K + -dependent rebound and oscillatory phenomena, without concomitant fluctuations in oxygen uptake. The findings provide further evidence that the stoichiometry between Ca ++ uptake and electron transport may vary considerably under different conditions ( Carafoli, Gamble, and Lehninger, 1965 ) and also suggest the existence of a feed-back relationship between active Ca ++ uptake and the Ca ++ efflux rate.
Transposon mutagenesis of nuclear photosynthetic genes in Zea mays

The discovery of a new maize (Zea mays L.) transposon system, Mutator, and the cloning of the 1.4 kilobase transposon, Mul, have made feasible the isolation of nuclear photosynthetic genes which are recognized only by their mutant phenotype. Mutant maize plants which express a high chlorophyll fluorescent (hcf) phenotype due to a defect in the electron transport or photophosphorylation apparatus have been isolated following mutagenesis with an active Mutator stock. The affected genes and their products in these mutants are inaccessible to classical methods of analysis. However, mutagenesis with the Mutator transposon makes it possible to isolate these genes.
Improving Interactions: The Effects of Implementing the Fight-Free Schools Violence Prevention Program

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the Fight-Free Schools violence prevention process had an effect on the frequency of aggressive acts of elementary school students. Participants included approximately 600 students ranging from Kindergarten to 5th grade in a suburban school in the Midwestern United States. Data were collected over a 2-year period on the frequency and type of aggressive acts committed during the school day. Year 1 baseline was compared to data from Year 2 to determine whether any differences existed after Fight-Free Schools was implemented. Results indicated a 60% decrease in the overall number of aggressive acts from Year 1 to Year 2. In addition, there were decreases in each specific type of aggressive act that ranged from 25% to 84%.
Postmodernism and religious reflection

The French philosophers who come most readily to mind when the term ‘postmodernism’ is mentioned are not conspicuously pious. By this I do not mean that they follow the admonition of Jesus to do their praying behind closed doors (Matt, 6:5–6). They are a pretty secular lot and seem to be the spiritual grandchildren of Sartre and Camus, whose atheism they presuppose, often without bothering even to assert it, much less argue for it.
Isolation of (−) S-Methyl-L-Cysteine from Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)

THE recent isolation1,2 of S-methyl-L-cysteine sulphoxide from two crucifers, turnips and cabbage, and the chromatographic evidence3 for its occurrence in many related plants suggested the possibility that methyl cysteine should also occur in plants. In addition, preliminary evidence has clearly indicated that the turnip can readily form the sulphoxide from methyl cysteine. A careful examination3 of the protein and non-protein fractions of several crucifers revealed no methyl cysteine. Previous work4 on the non-protein amino-acids of bean seeds showed a ninhydrin-reactive spot which gave an iodoplatinate test5 indicative of the sulphur amino-acids. This material was found on a two-directional chromatogram (phenol: butanol–acetic acid) in a position corresponding to that of methyl cysteine and close to that of γ-amino-butyric acid. This compound has been isolated and identified as (−) S-methyl-L-cysteine.
The effect of block structure of an ethylene terephthalate/hydroxybenzoate copolymer on its ability to form compatible blends

A thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer (TLCP) containing aliphatic linkages exhibits properties of both a random-coil and a rigid-rod. By varying its block structure, one can change its ability to form compatible blends with other polymers. In this work, the ability of the TLCP p(ET/HBA60) with a high degree of block structure, X-7G TM , to form compatible blends with polycarbonate and aromatic TLCPs is compared to that of a p(ET/HBA60) with a more random molecular structure, Rodrun TM LC-3000. It was found that both materials formed compatible blends through transesterification of the block structure and that a higher degree of blockiness enhanced the rate of transesterification. NMR spectra and differential thermal analysis were used to quantify the degree of transesterification and scanning electron microscopy was utilized to examine the effects of the blending process on the degree of compatibilization and the morphology of the resulting blends.
Locomotor behaviour of the walrus (Odobenus)

The aquatic and terrestrial locomotion of the walrus are described using the frame-by-frame analysis of 16 mm cine film and the manipulation of bone-muscle preparations. The hind limbs of the walrus are the major source of aquatic propulsion; the forelimbs are used for manoeuvring as well as for propulsion.
Short-Term Mortality of Discarded Finfish Bycatch in the Gulf of Maine Fishery for Northern Shrimp Pandalus borealis

Abstract Although numerous studies have detailed the level of bycatch and discard in commercial fisheries, few studies have documented mortality of bycatch that is discarded after capture. We studied the short-term mortality caused by landing and by handling and sorting activities, as well as the levels of avian predation, imposed upon four finfish species—American plaice Hippoglossoides platessoides, winter flounder Pleuronectes americanus, witch flounder Glyptocephalus cynoglossus, and pollock Pollachius virens—that are prominent discards in the Gulf of Maine fishery for northern shrimp Pandalus borealis. Mortality caused by capture and on-deck sorting varied among the four species. Mortalities of American plaice, witch flounder, and pollock were correlated positively with on-deck sorting time. but mortality of winter flounder was not. Mortality of winter flounder was less than 10% for all time periods of on-deck sorting tested (from 15 to 60+ min). Mean size of fish, maximum depth of tow, duration of t...
The contrast in phase angles between forced and self-excited oscillations of a circular cylinder

Abstract The problem of vortex-induced vibration (VIV) on a circular cylinder has historically been considered from the viewpoints of both self-excited and forced oscillations. In an intermediate Reynolds number range, the self-excited case typically has an irregular displacement response that occurs without a constant amplitude or frequency. In a forced oscillation of constant amplitude and frequency in this intermediate range, the applied force can either lead or lag the cylinder oscillation with a constant phase angle. In a self-excited oscillation, the phase angle could possibly vary a great deal because of a more irregular oscillation. This study presents a set of phase angles determined from 2-D CFD/LES calculations of the self-excited oscillations of a cylinder at Re = 8000 over a range of lock-on conditions. The results show that the phase angles determined from the self-excited case do not have a consistent trend but behave in an irregular manner, not at all like those in a forced sinusoidal oscillation. Both a spectral analysis and a complex demodulation analysis of the displacement and lift coefficient confirm that this self-excited behavior does not occur at a single frequency or at a constant phase angle at the Reynolds number for this study.
Experimental inquiry and naturalistic inquiry: An evaluation

In recent years, questions have been raised about the usefulness of experimental inquiry in educational research and evaluation. An alternative paradigm, called naturalistic inquiry has been advocated by some and appears to be growing in acceptability. In this article, these two approaches are described and compared using illustrations from two science education research projects. Several strengths and limitations of each inquiry style are identified. Investigators are urged to seriously consider both paradigms in planning research and evaluation studies.
Comparative Studies of Musical Instruments

One of the most exciting fields of study to have entered the interdisciplinary forum in recent times has been ethnomusicology. With primary emphasis on unifying musicology with anthropology, the field also touches on such adjunct areas as acoustics, psychology, linguistics, art history, dance, folklore, and religious studies. The research objective which has received the most attention to date has been the identification and description of the manifold music cultures of the world in terms of the music styles involved as well as the socio-cultural contexts in which they are found. A second and more recent focus of interest has been comparative studies. Dependent on the findings of regional research, comparative studies deal with culture sharing and hybridization, larger regional characteristics, and ultimately the development of universal music theory. While methodological tools for descriptive research have been fairly well worked out, the more comprehensive techniques required of comparative analysis are only in the formative stages. A fundamental area in which this disparity is illustrated is the classification of musical instruments.
The preservation of hearing and facial nerve function in a consecutive series of unilateral vestibular nerve schwannoma surgical patients (acoustic neuroma)

Between January 1981 and February 1992, 102 non-NF-2 patients underwent removal of a unilateral vesitbular schwannoma. There were 54 women and 48 men. Eighty-six percent of patients with normal facial function preoperatively retained normal function (House score 1 or 2) postoperatively. Of the 64 patients with a functional cochlear nerve preoperatively, five had normal hearing (PTA 70%), five had near normal hearing (PTA 70%), four patients had preserved hearing (PTA 50%), and three patients had preserved cochlear nerve function (PTA > 50 dB, SD < 50%) after surgery. Hearing preservation was obtained in patients whose tumors were larger than 3 cm. Radiological follow-up revealed 10 patients with recurrent tumor, all but one asymptomatic.
Shifting Vocabulary Bias in Speedup Learning

In this paper, we describe a domain-independent principle for justified shifts of vocabulary bias in speedup learning. This principle advocates the minimization of wasted computational effort. It explains as well as generates a special class of granularity shifts. We describe its automation for definite as well as stratified Horn theories, and present an implementation for a general class of reachability computations.
A Modified Feulgen Technic for Small and Diffuse Chromatin Elements

A revised technic is proposed which differs essentially from the standard procedure only in the preparation of the staining solution and of the sulphurous acid bath, which are made by direct charging with SO2 gas instead of HC1 and the sulphites ordinarily used. Tests on smear preparations of small amoebae, oocyte prophases of a parasitic wasp, and yeasts revealed Feulgen-positive results not usually obtained by the conventional method.
Mercury measurement and control in a CO2-enriched flue gas

Abstract Oxycombustion is being considered as a promising solution to carbon capture and sequestration. Standard sampling and measurement methods may or may not be valid under oxycombustion conditions because the flue gas differs significantly from that of conventional air-blown coal combustion. Bench-scale tests were conducted to evaluate the measurement validity of continuous mercury monitors (CMMs), with and without a flue gas preconditioning unit, in a simulated oxycombustion flue gas with varied CO 2 concentrations. Tests also included mercury capture with activated carbon in typical oxyfuel combustion flue gas. Research data indicated that highly concentrated CO 2 streams affect the accuracy of the mass flow rate and the subsequent gaseous mercury measurement, although this is specific to the type of CMM. Concentrated CO 2 streams also induced solid precipitation in the wet-chemistry conversion unit and resulted in a biased measurement of the gas-phase mercury. Flue gas dilution appeared to provide accurate measurement of total gas-phase mercury and be applicable to mercury measurement in highly concentrated CO 2 streams, although mercury speciation appeared to be problematic and will require additional modification and validation. Mercury capture with activated carbon under CO 2 -enriched conditions showed similar performance to typical high-acid coal combustion flue gas.
Using synthetic chemistry to understand copper protein active sites: a personal perspective.

The results of studies performed in the author’s laboratory are surveyed, with particular emphasis on demonstrating the value of a multidisciplinary synthetic modeling approach for discovering new and unusual chemistry helpful for understanding the properties of the active sites of copper proteins or assessing the feasibility of mechanistic pathways they might follow during catalysis. The discussion focuses on the progress made to date toward comprehending the nitrite reductase catalytic site and mechanism, the electronic structures of copper thiolate electron transfer centers, the sulfido-bridged “CuZ” site in nitrous oxide reductase, and the processes of dioxygen binding and activation by mono- and dicopper centers in oxidases and oxygenases.
Frequency Analysis of Yield for Delineating Yield Response Zones

The yield in any given field or management zone is a product of interaction between many soil properties and production inputs. Therefore, multi-year yield maps may give better insight into determining potential management zones. This research was conducted to develop a methodology to delineate yield response zones by using two-state frequency analysis conducted on yield maps for 3 years on two commercial corn fields near Wiggins, Colorado. A zone was identified by the number of years that yield was equal and greater than the average yield in a given year. Classes producing statistically similar yield were combined resulting in three potential yield zones. Results indicated that the variability of yield over time and space could successfully be assessed at the same time without the drawbacks of averaging data from different years. Frequency analysis of multi-year yield data could be an effective way to establish yield response zones. Seventeen percent of the field #1 consistently produced lower yield than the mean while 43 of the field produced yield over the mean. Corresponding values for field #2 were 6% and 42%.The remainder of the fields produced fluctuating yields between years. These spatially and temporally sound yield response maps could be used to identify the yield-limiting factors in zones where yield is either low or fluctuating. Yield response maps could also be helpful to delineate potential management zones with the help of resource zones such as electrical conductivity and soil maps, along with the directed soil sampling results.
Structure and property prediction of sub- and supercritical water

Abstract In this report two approaches are presented to predict the structure and PVT behavior of associating fluids with emphasis on water. One approach is the development of equations of state based on the analytic chain association theory (ACAT). An associating fluid is assumed to be a mixture of monomers, dimers, trimers, etc., for which the composition distribution is obtained. The resulting equations are simple enough to be used for PVT calculations. The second approach is the development of an effective Kihara pair potential for water which incorporates the hydrogen bonding using the ACAT. This potential function has been used in an analytical expression to predict the first shell of the radial distribution function (RDF) for water. The expression for RDF which was initially applied to simple potential energy functions, such as the Lennard–Jones and Kihara functions satisfies the general functionality of the RDF with respect to intermolecular potential, temperature and density as well as all the limiting values of RDF at high temperature and dilute gas, and infinite separation. The effective potential parameters are determined to predict the first shell of the RDF data for water at various subcritical temperatures and densities. The predicted results for water at near-critical and supercritical conditions are shown to be in agreement with the data obtained by neutron diffraction experiments and with the simulation data.
Adapting Scenario-based Curriculum Materials to Community College Technical Courses

Community college educators seek to infuse their workforce courses with more “real world” activities. This 3-year case study examined how 7 instructors and 78 students in California and Texas responded to the changes involved in implementing one type of reform program—the scenario-based curriculum (Schank, 1997). The study shows that the curriculum challenged both instructors' and students' conceptions of technical course instruction. It also showed that they could embrace this curriculum's blend of professional skills and technical education if it was adapted to help them manage teamwork, understand learning goals, and gauge the quality of students' professional and technical performance.
Suitability of Microwave-Assisted Extraction for Multiresidue Pesticide Analysis of Produce†

A systematic study of the microwave-assisted extraction of field-incurred pesticide residues from several crop matrices was conducted. Five crops consisting of beets, cucumbers, lettuce, peppers, and tomatoes were grown and treated in the field with seven pesticides, dacthal, chlorpyrifos, chlorothalonil, diazinon, permethrin, methoxychlor, and azinphos-methyl. Values were determined for the microwave extraction parameters, time and temperature, which resulted in efficient recovery over the selected pesticides and crops. The microwave settings were shown to be dependent on both crop matrix and pesticide. Recovery of the fungicide chlorothalonil was highly dependent on temperature, while the remaining pesticides tested were not so demanding. Using the selected microwave time and temperature values, pesticide recoveries from the microwave method were then compared with those of the conventional method. Statistical comparison of pesticide recoveries and method reproducibility of the microwave method versus t...
The interrelationship of iron and potassium in water convolvulus (Ipomea aquatica, Forsk.)

Abstract Water convolvulus, Ipomea aquatica Forsk., was grown in nutrient solution with four concentrations of iron and four concentrations of potassium ranging from deficient to sufficient. All other nutrients were supplied in adequate quantities. When the iron supply was marginal, low potassium levels in the solution produced plants with interveinal chlorosis on the young leaves characteristic of iron deficiency. Potassium level had no effect on either total or active iron concentrations of the chlorotic leaf tissue. Foliar sprays of iron prevented the interveinal chlorosis at all potassium levels.
Mechanisms for the Transport of α,ω-Dicarboxylates through the Mitochondrial Inner Membrane

Abstract α,ω-Dicarboxylates have antibacterial properties, have been used in the treatment of hyperpigmentary disorders, are active against various melanoma cell lines, and can also undergo β-oxidation. Little, however, is known about their transport. In this paper, we examine the mitochondrial transport of α,ω-dicarboxylates ranging from oxalate (DC2) to sebacate (DC10). DC2-DC10 are transported by the inner membrane anion channel (IMAC). DC6-DC10 are also transported by an electroneutral mechanism that appears to reflect transport of the acid through the lipid bilayer. At 37°C and pH 7.0, DC10 is transported very rapidly at 3 μmol/min·mg, and respiring mitochondria swell in the K+ salts of these acids. This transport mechanism is probably the major pathway by which the longer dicarboxylates enter cells, bacteria, and mitochondria. We also demonstrate that DC5-DC10 can also be transported by an electroneutral mechanism mediated by tributyltin, a potent inhibitor of IMAC. The mechanism appears to involve electroneutral exchange of a TBT-dicarboxylate-H complex for TBT-OH. Finally, we present evidence that of all the dicarboxylates tested only DC2-DC4 can be transported by the classical dicarboxylate carrier.
Characterization of β-cyclodextrin for direct compression tableting: II. The role of moisture in the compactibility of β-cyclodextrin

The role of moisture in the compactibility of β-cyclodextrin has been examined. A physically modified β-cyclodextrin (BCD-DC) was compared to a commercial β-cyclodextrin product (Kleptose®). The moisture sorption-desorption isotherms of both β-cyclodextrin samples showed considerable hysteresis. This can be attributed to the fact that water is associated to β-cyclodextrin in the form of a crystal hydrate. Both β-cyclodextrin samples lost their compactibility on removal of water, thus demonstrating that moisture is essential for the compactibility of β-cyclodextrin. A moisture content of about 14% appears to be optimum for maximum compactibility of samples studied.
Two classes of channel-specific toxins from funnel web spider venom.

1. The paralytic effects and neuromuscular actions ofAgelenopsis aperta venom on insects were analyzed biochemically and electrophysiologically. 2. Paralysis caused byAgelenopsis venom is correlated with two effects on neuromuscular transmission: postsynaptic inhibition and presynaptic excitation. These effects are explained by the actions of two classes of toxins purified by RPLC, theα- and μ-agatoxins. 3. Theα-agatoxins are low molecular weight, acylpolyamines which cause rapid, reversible paralysis correlated with use-dependent postsynaptic block of EPSPs and ionophoretic glutamate potentials. The μ-agatoxins are cysteine-rich polypeptides which cause irreversible paralysis and repetitive action potentials originating in presynaptic axons or nerve terminals. 4. The joint actions of theα- and μ-agatoxins lead to significantly higher rates of paralysis than are obtained by either toxin class alone, and this may relate to enhancement by excitatory μ-agatoxins of use-dependent block caused byα-agatoxins.
Barriers to Treatment Adherence for Pediatric Patients With Sickle Cell Disease and Their Families

This study systematically identified adherence barriers and strategies in 31 adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD) and 71 caregivers. Qualitative data indicated that forgetting was the primary barrier and caregiver reminders were the primary strategies identified by both caregivers and adolescents. However, adolescents reported significantly more barriers for pain management (p < .01) than their caregivers. Caregivers and adolescents seem to experience similar as well as a few unique barriers and strategies across multiple components of the SCD treatment regimen. Multidisciplinary treatment teams have the opportunity to facilitate dialogue with patients and their families about adherence barriers and strategies.
Grading Adaptations for Students With Disabilities

Issues surround grading for all students, especially those with disabilities, who are at increased risk for grades that are low, inaccurate, and lacking in meaning. Teachers often recognize grading issues and will exercise judgment in making informal adaptations to the regular grading system. When chosen collaboratively and implemented systematically, grading adaptations can be incorporated into the regular grading system to produce accurate and fair grades. A systematic process for selecting and monitoring grading adaptations, the Personalized Grading Plan (PGP) Model, has been implemented successfully with included students with disabilities.
Late Adolescents’ Coping Styles in Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Conflicts using the Narrative Disclosure Task

The present study examined differences in coping styles of female late adolescents who were writing repeated narratives about either interpersonal or intrapersonal conflicts. Following the paradigm of Pennebaker’s (Hints on writing a running experiment. Unpublished manual, 1994) narrative disclosure task, 30 female adolescents wrote about the most upsetting event in their lives for 20 min on three consecutive days. These narratives were coded for the presence of interpersonal family conflict, peer conflict, and intrapersonal conflict (e.g., academic failure, medical problem), as well as 30 specific coping processes, including processes such as resignation, blaming others, and taking active steps. These 30 processes were later grouped into five broad coping styles: approach, cognitive, avoidant, internally-focused, and externally-focused coping. The results indicated that coping styles differed significantly depending on the type of conflict. External coping strategies (e.g., blaming others, acting out) were used more often in conflicts with parents, while conciliatory coping strategies (e.g., taking active steps to solve the problem), were used more often with peer conflict. Coping strategies tended to become more adaptive by the end of the third writing session (i.e., restructuring and acceptance increased, while withdrawal, distraction, and acting out decreased). The study is aimed to enhance our understanding of adaptation to psychosocial stressors of adolescence. Clinical implications of the results are discussed and are especially relevant to practitioners working with adolescent females and their families.
Security Through Sociology: The North Caucasus and the Global Counterinsurgency Paradigm

The global counterinsurgency strategy to combat terrorism emphasizes responding to the social and economic needs of communities where terrorists may find support. Public opinion data can help in that strategy, as shown by a 2006 survey of 1,200 young males from three provinces in Russia's North Caucasus. Conventional wisdom notwithstanding, the survey shows few signs of burgeoning radical Islam or ethnic animosity. Instead, economic conditions and poor governance are primary concerns. The region provides both an opportunity and threat: policymakers can and should address the region's needs; if not, radical Islamist groups can turn it into a flashpoint for terrorism.
Long-term efficacy and safety of uterine artery embolization in young patients with and without uteroovarian anastomoses.

Purpose To assess long-term clinical efficacy of uterine artery embolization (UAE) in young women and the clinical significance of patent anastomoses between uterine and ovarian arteries. Materials and Methods Consecutive women no older than 39 years of age treated with UAE for symptomatic uterine leiomyomata with at least 3 years of follow-up were included in the study. Analysis includes angiographic images, pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance (MR) images, and symptom evaluations. Clinical evaluation and symptom severity scores (SSSs) were obtained at 6 months and yearly. Leiomyomata volume change, SSS, and repeat intervention rates were compared for patients with and without anastomoses between uterine and ovarian arteries. Results The study cohort included 87 patients, including 30 white patients (34.4%), 49 black patients (56.3%), and eight patients of other ethnicities (9.2%). Anastomoses were demonstrated in 41 patients (47.1%). Seventy patients (80.5%) completed the long-term follow-up, of whom 35 had an anastomosis (85.4% of the 41 patients with anastomoses) and 35 did not (76.1% of the 46 patients without anastomoses). Mean leiomyoma volume reduction was 49.1% ( P = .018), and reduction of uterine volume was 36.0% ( P P = .029). One patient (1.4%) developed natural amenorrheic change in the long term after UAE. Nineteen patients (27.1%) attempted pregnancy after UAE, and 12 patients had 15 pregnancies, with six pregnancies to full term. Conclusions UAE in young patients achieves significant dominant leiomyoma volume reduction and symptomatic improvements, with overall repeat intervention rates of 25.7% in the long term. Uteroovarian anastomoses in young patients are associated with higher rates of repeat intervention after UAE.
Potential Mechanism by Which Resveratrol, a Red Wine Constituent, Protects Neurons

Polyphenolic compounds, such as resveratrol, are naturally present at high concentration in grape skin, seeds, and red wine. Resveratrol is present in cis and trans isoforms and the major trans isomer is the biologically active one. Epidemiologic studies have revealed a reduced incidence of cardiovascular risk associated with consumers of red wine; this has been popularized as the French paradox. Resveratrol has been shown to have significant antioxidant properties in a variety of in vitro and in vivo models. It can reduce ischemic damage in heart ischemia reperfusion injury and also in brain ischemia/reperfusion in rodent models. Due to the high rate of oxygen consumption in the brain, and especially low levels of antioxidant defense enzymes, this organ is particularly susceptible of free radical damage. Most of the protective biological actions associated with resveratrol have been associated with its intrinsic radical scavenger properties. We have investigated the possibility of other indirect pathways by which resveratrol can exert its neuroprotective abilities. We have specifically tested whether heme oxygenase neuroprotective enzyme could be stimulated after resveratrol treatment. Using primary neuronal cultures, resveratrol was able to significantly induce heme oxygenase 1, whereas vehicle control showed no effect. No detectable toxicity was quantified. It is well established that after stroke significant levels of intracellular heme levels increase. The source of free heme comes mainly from several heme-containing enzymes. Heme (iron-protoporphyrin IX) is a pro-oxidant and its rapid degradation by heme oxygenase is believed to be protective. Moreover, the generation of heme metabolites can also have their own intrinsic cellular properties. All together, increased heme oxygenase activity by resveratrol is a unique pathway by which this compound can exert its neuroprotective actions.
Metabolism of androstenedione by guinea-pig peritoneal macrophages: synthesis of testosterone and 5α-reduced metabolites☆

Androstenedione metabolizing enzymes present in guinea-pig peritoneal macrophages were investigated using tritium-labeled androstenedionc as the substrate. We found that the metabolites of [3H]-androstenedione produced by these macrophages were testosterone. 5α-androstane-3,17-dione, isoandrosterone, androsterone, 5α-dihydrotestosterone, 5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol and 5α-androstane-3β,17β-diol. The rates of metabolite formation remained linear as a function of time of incubation for approximately 30 min and with macrophage number up to 2 × 107 cells per ml. The formation of these metabolites is indicative that the following androstcnedione metabolizing enzymes are present in guinea-pig peritoneal macrophages: 5α-reductase, 3α-hydroxystcroid oxidoreductasc, 3β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase and 17β-hydroxystcroid oxidoreductasc. It is possible, therefore, that the macrophage, in vivo. may play a role in the metabolism of blood-borne androstcnedione to potent androgens. These hormones are important in the regulation of many biological processes, possibly including the activity of the macrophage itself.
Late-night salivary cortisol for the diagnosis of Cushing syndrome: a meta-analysis.

Objective: To report a meta-analysis of late-night salivary cortisol testing for the diagnosis of Cushing syndrome.Methods: MEDLINE and EMBASE computer databases were searched to identify relevant ...
Surface Optical Phonons in Gallium Phosphide Nanowires

Raman scattering studies of crystalline GaP nanowires reveal a strong additional peak in the first order spectrum that can be clearly assigned to surface optical (SO) phonons. The frequency of this SO peak is found to be sensitive to the dielectric constant of the surrounding medium in which the nanowire is embedded. A theory for the SO phonons in cylindrical wires is presented, the SO mode dispersion ω(q) and the experimental peak frequency are then used to predict the wavelength of the dominant Fourier component of the surface potential responsible for activating the SO mode. Interestingly, this SO phonon wavelength is found to agree with the wavelength of diameter modulation observed for some nanowires.
Developing a Software Defined Networking curriculum through industry partnerships

Software Defined Networking (SDN) is an emerging technology which radically improves cloud computing and other types of data networking. We discuss a new SDN undergraduate education program, developed in collaboration with industry partnerships. Student labs using resources such as GENI, NetFPGA, and the New York State Cloud Computing Center will be presented. We also outline SDN student projects including firewalls, load balancers, and redundant failover systems.
Significance of hepatic breakthrough thresholds in fenitrothion toxicity in male rats and female mice

Abstract Periportal uptake of fenitrothion in the liver and the elution lag caused by serial migration of the chemical through the hepatocytes were demonstrated by pulse infusion analysis with male Sprague-Dawley rats and by autoradiography with orally dosed female Swiss Webster mice. Blood analyses of the portal and hepatic veins of these animals as well as jugular and tail veins of rats revealed that elution of fenitrothion and fenitrooxon from the liver was clearly a threshold phenomenon. High tolerance of female mice compared with male rats was characterized by a large difference in the hepatic breakthrough of fenitrooxon, which occurred at about a 25 mg/kg fenitrothion dose in rats and never in mice dosed up to 1000 mg/kg. The threshold for fenitrothion breakthorough was similar in both female mice and male rats, occurring at 20 to 25 mg/kg fenitrothion. Thus, toxicity in the mice is due to extrahepatic activation of fenitrothion since no fenitrooxon was eluted into the systemic blood. In the rats, significant levels of fenitrooxon were contributed by the liver in addition to the elution of fenitrothion in similar levels.