cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
B Cell Receptor-induced cAMP-response Element-binding Protein Activation in B Lymphocytes Requires Novel Protein Kinase Cδ *

Abstract The cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) is activated by phosphorylation on Ser-133 and plays a key role in the proliferative and survival responses of mature B cells to B cell receptor (BCR) signaling. The signal link between the BCR and CREB activation depends on a phorbol ester (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate)-sensitive protein kinase C (PKC) activity and not protein kinase A or calmodulin kinase; however, the identity and role of the PKC(s) activity has not been elucidated. We found the novel PKCδ (nPKCδ) activator bistratene A is sufficient to induce CREB phosphorylation in murine splenic B cells. The pharmacological inhibitor Go6976, which targets conventional PKCs and PKCμ, has no effect on CREB phosphorylation, whereas the nPKCδ inhibitor rottlerin blocks CREB phosphorylation following BCR cross-linking. Bryostatin 1 selectively prevents nPKCδ depletion by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate when coapplied, coincident with protection of BCR-induced CREB phosphorylation. Ectopic expression of a kinase-inactive nPKCδ blocks BCR-induced CREB phosphorylation in A20 B cells. In addition, BCR-induced CREB phosphorylation is significantly diminished in nPKCδ-deficient splenic B cells in comparison with wild type mice. Consistent with the essential role for Bruton's tyrosine kinase and phospholipase Cγ2 in mediating PKC activation, Bruton's tyrosine kinase- and phospholipase Cγ2-deficient B cells display defective CREB phosphorylation by the BCR. We also found that p90 RSK directly phosphorylates CREB on Ser-133 following BCR cross-linking and is positioned downstream of nPKCδ. Taken together, these results suggest a model in which BCR engagement leads to the phosphorylation of CREB via a signaling pathway that requires nPKCδ and p90 RSK in mature B cells.
Analysis of phosphate-related components in Hanford tank wastes

Several organophosphorus compounds including tributyl phosphate (TBP), bis-2-(ethylhexyl) phosphate (D2EHP), and dibutyl butyl phosphonate (DBBP) were used as extractants at the Hanford site. The mass spectral fragmentation patterns of various organosphosphorus compounds have been interpreted and used to predict the identity of phosphate-related components and their degradation products in tank waste.
Numerical methods for the correction of apparent band shapes due to finite slit width

Abstract The problem of transforming apparent spectroscopic band shapes to their true values is considered. The integral equations which express the influence of a spectrometer with finite slit width are given a matrix representation in which the problem is reduced to the inversion of the matrix which represents the spectrometer transformation. Although an exact solution of the inversion problem is readily found for a wide class of slit functions, it is shown to be impractical in the sense that a small experimental error in the observed apparent intensities leads to a much larger error in the true intensities calculated with the aid of the inverse spectrometer matrix. Nevertheless, it is demonstrated that a satisfactory approximate solution can be found by an iterative calculation which converges sufficiently rapidly provided the slit width is not too much greater than the band width, and that the band does not contain extensive fine structure. The method makes no assumptions concerning the true shape of the band and may, therefore, be used in the case of asymmetrical bands. Neither is it restricted to any particular shape of the slit function (e.g. triangular, trapezoidal, gaussian). Several numerical examples are used to illustrate the flexibility of the method and the speed of convergence to be expected in practice.
A globally asymptotically stable polynomial vector field with no polynomial Lyapunov function

We give a simple, explicit example of a two-dimensional polynomial vector field that is globally asymptotically stable but does not admit a polynomial Lyapunov function.
Production monitoring—A proven productivity tool

Production executives in modern factories are concerned with standards, real production and schedule maintenance, and with having early foresight into problem areas. The use of digital computers in the factory has for many years been largely divided between “closed-loop control” and “data processing” (DP), but today there is a growing need for “closed-loop information control” (CLIC). This paper describes a system for implementation of this concept using exclusively industry-standard hardware, and its application within smaller industrial operations rather than the industrial giants (although their need may indeed be greater). For many such smaller companies, production monitoring may be a first venture into CIM. Rather than “control” or “data” being the key, “information” is the cornerstone of the system described. The word “information” conjures up a variety of ideas in its normal use, but a visit to a real factory forces a closer look at its meaning, if the CLIC concept is to be even worth considering. Repeatable and verifiable data sources are very difficult to obtain on the factory floor. Physical compatibility is a real concern, because equipment that operates in the usual controlled DP environment is not usually reliable on the factory floor. The operating conditions demanded by much to today's DP equipment preclude heat, vibration, electromagnetic interference and the generally hostile conditions which are prevalent in many factories. Consequently, any factory-floor system is fraught with unique problems all the way from data capture, through communications, into efficient data structures and meaningful graphic presentation. This paper describes such a system and summarises its effect on productivity as proven by application in several factories in the US and Canada.
Antisense Suppression of p107 Inhibits 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation

The murine 3T3-L1 preadipocyte cell line is well characterized for its capacity to undergo differentiation into adipocytes under appropriate hormonal stimulation. p107, a member of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor gene family has been shown to be dramatically upregulated during the early requisite clonal expansion phase of 3T3-L1 adipogenesis; however, a functional consequence has yet to be described. A phosphorothioate antisense RNA approach was utilized to determine if inhibition of p107 expression would block or perturb adipocyte differentiation. A series of three phosphorothioate oligonucleotides in antisense orientation was generated, designated AS1, AS2, and AS3 along with a sense control oligonucleotide complementary to AS1 and added to postconfluent cells at a concentration of 20 and 50 microM throughout hormonally stimulated differentiation. Treatment of cells with either concentration of the sense, AS1, AS2, or 20 microM AS3 oligonucleotides had little effect on either Oil Red O lipid accumulation or induction of p107 protein levels. In contrast, treatment with 50 microM AS3 inhibited the increase in p107 protein levels and led to a complete block in differentiation as detected by Oil Red O lipid accumulation and inhibition of adipocyte-specific mRNA expression. In addition, treatment with AS3 led to a significant inhibition of cellular proliferation associated with clonal expansion. Combined, these results provide strong evidence supporting a functional role for p107 in 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation.
Dietary carbohydrate source alters gene expression profile of intestinal epithelium in mice

High-sucrose consumption is associated with increased risk of human colon cancer. Our previous research indicated that high-sucrose diets (vs. cornstarch) promote intestinal epithelial cell proliferation and tumorigenesis as well as increase serum glucose and hepatic IGF-I mRNA levels in APC(Min) mice. To examine the role of functional pathways, in particular of IGF-I signaling, in sucrose-induced intestinal epithelial cell proliferation and tumorigenesis, we examined the effects of dietary carbohydrate source (sucrose vs. cornstarch) on gene expression in the intestinal epithelium using cDNA microarray and quantitative RT-PCR analysis. Dietary carbohydrate source significantly (P < 0.05) altered mRNA expression of 109 known genes in the small intestinal epithelium, including many involved in metabolic pathways. Consumption of high-sucrose diets altered expression levels of genes involved in cell adhesion, cell cycle control, and transduction signaling, consistent with increased risk of intestinal tumorigenesis. High-sucrose intake also affected expression of genes involved in IGF-I signaling, including upregulating IGF-II and downregulating IGFBP3, which supports our hypothesis that IGF-I signaling could play a role in intestinal epithelial cell proliferation and tumorigenesis promoted by high-sucrose consumption.
Measurement of Frequency Shifts Using Infrared or Raman Difference Spectroscopy

We have recently developed a comprehensive picture of the difference spectra expected from the use of Raman difference spectroscopy (RDS). Both frequency shifts and bandwidth changes contribute to the nature of such spectra. We have also described a number of experimental applications where the RDS technique is used to measure frequency shifts and bandwidth changes with great precision. This work as well as that from other laboratories has recently been reviewed. In these publications, it has been mentioned that the RDS theory is also immediately applicable to analyzing infrared absorption bands; however, no experimental results were presented. One reason for this is that it is inherently more difficult to obtain useful information on frequency shifts and bandwidth changes from infrared difference spectra due to the limitations on infrared absorbances. That is, it is generally impractical to work with infrared bands whose absorbances considerably exceed about 1.0 absorbance unit (less than 10% transmittance), whereas for RDS large intensities are desirable for RDS measurements. Since many strong infrared bands go
Unique Differentiation Profile of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells in Rotary and Stirred Tank Bioreactors

Embryonic stem (ES)-cell-derived lineage-specific stem cells, for example, hematopoietic stem cells, could provide a potentially unlimited source for transplantable cells, especially for cell-based therapies. However, reproducible methods must be developed to maximize and scale-up ES cell differentiation to produce clinically relevant numbers of therapeutic cells. Bioreactor-based dynamic culture conditions are amenable to large-scale cell production, but few studies have evaluated how various bioreactor types and culture parameters influence ES cell differentiation, especially hematopoiesis. Our results indicate that cell seeding density and bioreactor speed significantly affect embryoid body formation and subsequent generation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells in both stirred tank (spinner flask) and rotary microgravity (Synthecon™) type bioreactors. In general, high percentages of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells were generated in both bioreactors, especially at high cell densities. In ...
Anharmonic phonons and high-temperature superconductivity.

We examine a simple model of anharmonic phonons with application to the superconducting isotope effect. Linear and quadratic electron-phonon coupling are considered for various model potentials. The results of the model calculations are compared with the high-temperature superconductors ${\mathrm{La}}_{2\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{Sr}}_{\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{CuO}}_{4}$, ${\mathrm{Y}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{Pr}}_{\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}$, and ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathit{x}}$${\mathit{M}}_{\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}$ with M=Zn, Ni, or Fe.
Cryptogenic Oculomotor Nerve Palsies in Children

We examined two cases of isolated, acquired, unremitting oculomotor palsies in children. The results of systemic, neurologic, and neuroradiologic investigations were normal. Both children were observed for more than two years and showed no additional signs or symptoms. Acquired isolated oculomotor palsies in some cases are not necessarily a harbinger of serious disease.
Great earthquakes 1896–1903

Trace amplitudes of surface wave maxima recorded by undamped Milne seismographs can be used to determine the magnitude of large shallow earthquakes. Magnification of these instruments for maxima of distant shocks was about 5. Station corrections are calculated. Milne's reports and other information are used to find the unified magnitude m and energy E of great earthquakes 1896 to 1903. From 1896 to 1906 the average annual energy release was about 2 X 1025 ergs contrasted with about 0.6 X 1025 ergs from 1907 to 1955, The greatest energy release in any calendar year since 1896 was 5 X 1025 ergs in 1897 that included the great Indian earthquake, one shock off northeast Honshu, and two in the Philippine Islands, all with m = 8± and E about 1025 ergs. The same order of energy was released in at least one of the Sanriku earthquakes of 1896. The Yakutat Bay shocks of 1899 and 1900 included one with m of 7.9± and two with 7¾±. The greatest shock, 1896 to 1955, was possibly the one off Colombia-Ecuador on January 31, 1906, m = 8.1 to 8.2, E = 2 X 1025 ± ergs. The smallest energy release from shallow shocks in any calendar year since 1896 was about 1024 ergs in 1954 (when in no shallow shock m exceeded 7.2, though one shock at a depth of nearly 200 km had m = 7.4).
Phase II of the Small Main-Belt Asteroid Spectroscopic Survey: A Feature-Based Taxonomy

The second phase of the Small Main-belt Asteroid Spectroscopic Survey (SMASSII) produced an internally consistent set of visible-wavelength charge-coupled device (CCD) spectra for 1447 asteroids (Bus and Binzel 2002, Icarus, ). These data provide a basis for developing a new asteroid taxonomy that utilizes more of the information contained in CCD spectra. Here we construct a classification system that builds on the robust framework provided by existing asteroid taxonomies. In particular, we define three major groupings (the S-, C-, and X-complexes) that adhere to the classical definitions of the S-, C-, and X-type asteroids. A total of 26 classes are defined, based on the presence or absence of specific spectral features. Definitions and boundary parameters are provided for each class, allowing new spectral observations to be placed in this system. Of these 26 classes, 12 bear familiar single-letter designations that follow previous conventions: A, B, C, D, K, O, Q, R, S, T, V, and X. A new L-class is introduced to describe 35 objects with spectra having a steep UV slope shortward of 0.75 μm, but which are relatively flat longward of 0.75 μm. Asteroids with intermediate spectral characteristics are assigned multiletter designations: Cb, Cg, Cgh, Ch, Ld, Sa, Sk, Sl, Sq, Sr, Xc, Xe, and Xk. Members of the Cgh- and Ch-classes have spectra containing a 0.7-μm feature that is generally attributed to hydration. Although previously considered featureless, CCD observations reveal distinct features of varying strengths in the spectra of asteroids in the X-complex, thus allowing the Xc-, Xe-, and Xk-classes to be established. Most notably, the spectra of Xe-type asteroids contain an absorption feature centered near 0.49 μm that may be associated with troilite. Several new members are identified for previously unique or sparsely populated classes: 12 A-types, 3 O-types, and 3 R-types. Q-types are common within the near-Earth asteroid population but remain unobserved in the main belt. More than 30 new V-types are found in the vicinity of Vesta. The heliocentric distribution of the SMASSII taxonomic classes is similar to that determined from previous studies, though additional structure is revealed as a result of the larger sample size.
Five-year clinical experience with the Dornier Delta lithotriptor

Abstract Objectives Multiple studies support the clinical value of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in the treatment of symptomatic urolithiasis. Although prior investigations have examined such efficacy among several commercially available lithotriptors, no published data exist to support the efficacy of the Dornier Delta lithotriptor. Methods A retrospective review of 4621 patients with urolithiasis treated with the Dornier Delta lithotriptor from 1999 through 2004 was undertaken. Data were obtained regarding stone location, stone size, shockwave usage, total success rate, and complications. Results From January 1, 1999 through December 31, 2004, 4621 patients with 7347 stones were treated with the Dornier Delta lithotriptor. Of these stones, 74.38% were located in the kidney, and 25.62% were confined to the ureter. Of renal stones, 22.8% were in the renal pelvis, whereas upper, middle, and lower pole stones constituted 16.3%, 23.3%, and 37.6%, respectively. Of ureteral stones, 72.2% were in the proximal ureter, compared with 14.2% and 13.6% in the mid- and distal ureter, respectively. The majority of stones were less than 1 cm (65.7%). The average number of shocks was 2037. Average shockwave intensity was 5.5 (out of 6). Average treatment time was 23.8 minutes. Of those patients that completed follow-up, 85.1% achieved total success, with 58.5% being stone free and 26.6% having fragments less than 4 mm. The efficiency quotient was 0.51. Conclusions Treatment of renal and/or ureteral stones in selected patients with the Dornier Delta lithotriptor is appropriate. The total success rate and efficiency quotient is consistent with that of other available lithotriptors.
Chronic Hepatitis in Hemophilia

The relationship of chronic hepatitis B and/or liver dysfunction to treatment in 113 hemophiliacs was evaluated by the enzyme tests, SGOT and SGPT, and by the presence of circulating hepatis B surface antigen (HbsAg) or antibody (anti-Hbs). The hemophiliacs were divided into three groups according to treatment pattern. Individuals who had received mutiple doses of plasma fractions, derived from four or more commercial lots were placed in Group I «large Exposure». Group II «Small Exposure» had been treated with fractions from three or fewer lots and Group III «Cryo» had never received commercial fractions, but had been treated with cryoprecipitate. Abnormal liver function tests (LFT's) were found in 87 % of Group I and 76 % of Group II, but in only 16 % of the «Cryo» group. Differences in LFT's were not great between treated VIII and IX deficient patients. All patients treated with 100,000 units or more showed either persistent or intermittent abnormalities. In the high exposure group, the history of past, overt hepatitis had no influence on observed LFT's. The sera of all patients in the high exposure and all, except one, in the low exposure groups were positive for HbsAg or anti-Hbs by RIA. Splenomegaly was found in 13 % of fraction-treated patients. We conclude that there is biochemical evidence of liver disease following large exposure to commercial VIII or IX fractions, which should temper the physician's decision to start treatment with these fractions. On the other hand, evidence that their continued use produces mounting liver dysfunction is insufficient to withdraw this very effective and life-changing treatment from these individuals.
Reciprocal TH17 and regulatory T cell differentiation mediated by retinoic acid.

The cytokine transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) converts naive T cells into regulatory T (Treg) cells that prevent autoimmunity. However, in the presence of interleukin-6 (IL-6), TGF-beta has also been found to promote the differentiation of naive T lymphocytes into proinflammatory IL-17 cytokine-producing T helper 17 (T(H)17) cells, which promote autoimmunity and inflammation. This raises the question of how TGF-beta can generate such distinct outcomes. We identified the vitamin A metabolite retinoic acid as a key regulator of TGF-beta-dependent immune responses, capable of inhibiting the IL-6-driven induction of proinflammatory T(H)17 cells and promoting anti-inflammatory Treg cell differentiation. These findings indicate that a common metabolite can regulate the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory immunity.
Roflumilast: the new orally active, selective phophodiesterase-4 inhibitor, for the treatment of COPD

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disease, the clinical course of which is punctuated by acute exacerbations. While long-acting bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids can reduce exacerbations, some patients do not respond adequately to these agents. Roflumilast, a novel orally active, once-daily phophodiesterase-4-selective inhibitor with anti-inflammatory properties, has been shown to reduce exacerbations and has been approved for the treatment of the subset of COPD patients with symptoms of chronic cough and sputum who have a history of exacerbations. Areas covered: This article describes the pre-clinical and clinical pharmacology of roflumilast and analytically reviews the published data from the most relevant Phase-II and -III clinical trials evaluating its efficacy and safety. Expert opinion: Roflumilast is the first drug specifically targeted to a particular subset of the heterogeneous population of COPD patients, namely those with chronic bronchitis in...
Genotypic and phenotypic correlations for reaction to five foliar pathogens in alfalfa.

Genotypic and phenotypic correlations for reaction to five foliar pathogens were estimated from analyses of variance and covariance in eight, five-parent diallel crosses each in Saranac, MSA-C4, and MSB-C4 alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). The foliar pathogens wereUromyces striatus, Schroet. var.medicaginis (Pass.) Arth.,Stemphylium botryosum Wallr.,Pseudopeziza medicaginis (Lib.) Sacc.,Phoma herbarum West var.medicaginis Fckl., andLeptosphaerulina briosiana (Poll.) Graham and Luttrell.Genotypic correlations for reaction toU. striatus andP. medicaginis were significant and positive in Saranac and MSB-C4, but were significant and negative in MSA-C4. Genotypic correlations involvingL. briosiana,S. botryosum, andP. medicaginis were positive and significant in MSA-C4 and MSB-C4, but were not significant in Saranac. Significant positive genotypic correlations were observed for reaction toU. striatus andP. herbarum, and toP. herbarum andS. botryosum in Saranac and forU. striatus andL. briosiana in MSA-C4. Correlated responses in selection experiments involving the above, or closely related cultivars, confirmed most of the significant genotypic correlations. Phenotypic correlations were generally much smaller than the genotypic correlations.
Evolutionary disequilibrium and activity period in primates: a bayesian phylogenetic approach.

Activity period plays a central role in studies of primate origins and adaptations, yet fundamental questions remain concerning the evolutionary history of primate activity period. Lemurs are of particular interest because they display marked variation in activity period, with some species exhibiting completely nocturnal or diurnal lifestyles, and others distributing activity throughout the 24-h cycle (i.e., cathemerality). Some lines of evidence suggest that cathemerality in lemurs is a recent and transient evolutionary state (i.e., the evolutionary disequilibrium hypothesis), while other studies indicate that cathemerality is a stable evolutionary strategy with a more ancient history. Debate also surrounds activity period in early primate evolution, with some recent studies casting doubt on the traditional hypothesis that basal primates were nocturnal. Here, we used Bayesian phylogenetic methods to reconstruct activity period at key points in primate evolution. Counter to the evolutionary disequilibrium hypothesis, the most recent common ancestor of Eulemur was reconstructed as cathemeral at ∼9–13 million years ago, indicating that cathemerality in lemurs is a stable evolutionary strategy. We found strong evidence favoring a nocturnal ancestor for all primates, strepsirrhines and lemurs, which adds to previous findings based on parsimony by providing quantitative support for these reconstructions. Reconstructions for the haplorrhine ancestor were more equivocal, but diurnality was favored for simian primates. We discuss the implications of our models for the evolutionary disequilibrium hypothesis, and we identify avenues for future research that would provide new insights into the evolution of cathemerality in lemurs. Am J Phys Anthropol 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Link Analysis: Hubs and Authorities on the World Wide Web ∗

Ranking the tens of thousands of retrieved webpages for a user query on a Web search engine such that the most informative webpages are on the top is a key information retrieval technology. A popular ranking algorithm is the HITS algorithm of Kleinberg. It explores the reinforcing interplay between authority and hub webpages on a particular topic by taking into account the structure of the Web graphs formed by the hyperlinks between the webpages. In this paper, we give a detailed analysis of the HITS algorithm through a unique combination of probabilistic analysis and matrix algebra. In particular, we show that to first-order approximation, the ranking given by the HITS algorithm is the same as the ranking by counting inbound and outbound hyperlinks. Using Web graphs of different sizes, we also provide experimental results to illustrate the analysis.
Physical Diagnostics from a Narrow Fe Kα Emission Line Detected by Chandra in the Seyfert 1 Galaxy NGC 5548

We report the detection of a narrow Fe K? emission line in the Seyfert 1 galaxy NGC 5548 with the Chandra High-Energy Transmission Grating. In the galaxy frame we measure a center energy of 6.402 keV, a FWHM of 4515 km s-1, an intensity of 3.6 ? 10-5 photons cm-2 s-1, with an equivalent width of 133 eV (errors are 90% confidence for one parameter). The line is only marginally resolved at the 90% confidence level. The line energy is consistent with an origin in cold, neutral matter, but ionization states up to ~Fe XVIII are not ruled out. We cannot constrain the detailed dynamics but, assuming Keplerian motion, the velocity width is consistent with the line being produced in the outer optical/UV broad-line region (BLR) at about a light month from the central X-ray source. We cannot rule out some contribution to the narrow Fe K? line from a putative, parsec-scale, obscuring torus that is postulated to be a key component of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) unification models. The continuum intensity during the Chandra observation was a factor ~2 less than typical historical levels. If the X-ray continuum was at least a factor of 2 higher in the recent past before the Chandra observation and the narrow Fe K? intensity had not yet responded to such a change, then the predicted line intensity and equivalent width for an origin in the BLR is within the 90% measurement errors. Anisotropic X-ray continuum illumination of the BLR and/or additional line emission from a torus structure would improve the agreement with observation. Two out of three archival ASCA data sets are consistent with the narrow line being present with the same intensity as in the Chandra observation. However, there is strong evidence that the narrow-line intensity varied and was unusually low during one of the ASCA campaigns. In general, inclusion of the narrow line to model the overall broad Fe K? line profile in terms of a rotating disk plus black-hole model can have a non-negligible effect on the disk line intensity and variability properties. Variability of the broad disk line in NGC 5548 is difficult to reconcile with the expectations of the simple disk model, even when the narrow-line component is accounted for. It will be critical to ascertain the importance of a similar nondisk Fe K? line in other Seyfert 1 galaxies. Future monitoring of the narrow Fe K? component with large collecting area and high spectral resolution will enable reverberation mapping the BLR region, complementary to similar studies using the optical/UV lines, and therefore provide independent constraints on the black-hole mass.
Developing cross-cultural nutrition curricula using qualitative research methods

Summary This article delineates a method of carrying out the recommendations of nutrition educators and the Declaration of Alma-Ata to provide culturally appropriate cross-cultural consultation. Within the constraints of time, language, and a foreign culture, I conducted an exploratory study using qualitative research methods. These methods allowed me to elicit complex contextual information that quantitative measures alone cannot provide.
Cardiovascular risk factors and mitral annular calcification in type 2 diabetes.

Abstract Objective Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is a degenerative process of the mitral annulus associated with cardiac disease and stroke. Although thought to be more prevalent in type 2 diabetes (T2DM), MAC remains poorly characterized in this population, due to confounding by renal and cardiac disease. Our goal was to study the risk factors for MAC in a sample of T2DM subjects without renal and cardiac disease. Methods The Penn Diabetes Heart Study (PDHS) is a cross-sectional study of diabetic individuals without clinical cardiovascular or renal disease. We quantified and analyzed MAC Agatston scores in baseline cardiac CTs from 1753 individuals. Logistic and tobit regression were used to assess MAC’s relationship with risk factors and coronary artery calcium (CAC). Results MAC was present in 12.0% of subjects, with a median Agatston score of 72.3 [Interquartile range (22.2–256.9)]. Older age, female gender, Caucasian race, and longer diabetes duration were independently associated with both the presence and extent MAC even after controlling for CAC; however, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, tobacco use, CRP levels, and other comorbidities were not associated. CAC was strongly associated with MAC [OR of 4.0 (95% CI 2.4–6.6)] in multivariable models. Conclusions Age, female gender, Caucasian race, and diabetes duration were associated with the presence and extent of MAC in T2DM subjects, independent of CAC, which was also strongly associated with MAC. These data suggest that additional mechanisms for MAC formation in diabetics may exist which are distinct from those related to generalized atherosclerosis and deserve further investigation.
Impact of Airfoil Profile on the Supersonic Aerodynamics of Delta Wings

A nonlinear flow model was employed to predict the flowfield, pressure and force data for delta wings at supersonic speeds. The goal of the study was to investigate the influence the airfoil profiles has on the wing aerodynamics. The analysis covers wing aspect ratios from 0.5-3.0 with leading edge sweep of 0.5-4.0 on diamond, circular arc and NACA modified 4-digit airfoils. Nonlinear aerodynamics are approximated with nonlinear zero-lift wave drag curves, yielding results significantly different from those obtained from linear calculations. The analytical technique, useful in preliminary design studies, indicates in all cases that 90 percent of wave drag is generated at the wing apex and trailing edge.
Role of gonadal hormones on mu-opioid-stimulated [ 35S] GTPγS binding and morphine-mediated antinociception in male and female Sprague-Dawley rats

Male rats are more sensitive to morphine-mediated antinociception than female rats. A role for gonadal hormones in this sex difference has not been clearly defined. To test the hypothesis that in vivo manipulation of gonadal hormones alters morphine-mediated G protein activation and leads to changes in morphine-mediated antinociception. Adult male and female rats were gonadectomized and treated with either estradiol or testosterone in the females or testosterone in the male for up to 10 days. The ability of morphine and the peptidic mu-opioid agonist [D-Ala2, N-MePhe4, Gly-ol]-enkephalin (DAMGO) to stimulate [35S]GTPγS binding was measured in brain slices. In separate groups of identically treated rats, the antinociceptive response to morphine was determined using the warm-water tail-withdrawal assay. In the thalamus, morphine- and DAMGO-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding was reduced by estradiol treatment of gonadectomized females compared to gonadectomized females treated with vehicle or testosterone. In the nucleus accumbens, the morphine-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding was increased by estradiol treatment of gonadectomized females. In males, castration caused an increase in agonist-stimulated binding in the thalamus and a reduction in the amygdala compared with intact males. No significant changes were seen in mu-opioid agonist-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding in other brain regions. There was no difference in antinociception following the systemic administration of morphine across the different hormonal manipulation conditions and the greater sensitivity of males was maintained irrespective of the treatment conditions. The modulation of mu-opioid receptor activation of G proteins by manipulation of sex hormones is region-specific and not reflected in antinociceptive responsiveness to morphine.
Analysis of cat multichannel acoustic brain-stem response data using dipole localization methods

We have used dipole localization methods (DLMs) to examine multielectrode acoustic brain-stem response (ABR) data for 9 data files collected in 5 experiments on 2 cats. The analytical model for scalp surface voltage consisted of a single current dipole in a homogeneous spherical head model. DLM sources were compared to ABR generator sites determined in intracranial and lesion experiments described in the literature. DLM source along the mediolateral axis is consistent with a predominantly ipsilateral cochlear nucleus origin for P2, and a predominantly contralateral origin for P3. DLM source for P4 and P5 was near the midline plane, consistent with the suggestion of sources arrayed along both sides of the midline. Average DLM source position increased by 7.1 mm superiorly from P3 to P5, nearly what would be expected from movement from superior olive to inferior colliculus levels. A lack of DLM source movement in the postero-anterior direction is attributed to limitations of the spherical model. The overall progression of mean DLM equivalent source position at successive ABR peaks demonstrates the existence of substantive information about generator source position in scalp surface ABR field patterns. However, model constraints of available DLM techniques present severe restrictions on the physiological interpretation of results.
g Factor of the 50-keV 3 2 − State in Ra 223 and the Internal Magnetic Fields at Ra Nuclei in Ferromagnets

The $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ perturbed angular correlation of the 236-50-keV cascade in $^{223}\mathrm{Ra}$ has been investigated, yielding $g({\frac{3}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}},50 \mathrm{keV})=+0.28\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04$. The magnetic hyperfine fields experienced by Ra nuclei embedded in Ni, Co, and Fe lattices were found to be -30 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 10, -80 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 16, and -105 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 20 kOe, respectively.
Stress intensity factors of a radial crack in a compound disk subjected to point loads

Abstract A compound disk or compound cylinder containing a radial crack, subjected to point loads, is studied and the stress intensity factors are calculated. To approach the crack problem, the uncracked compound disk solution is sought first using the complex variable method. By superposition with the uncracked geometry solution and by integration of the corresponding dislocation solution, the crack problem can be formulated in terms of a singular integral equation, and the stress intensity factors of the radial crack can be evaluated accurately using a collocation technique. Extensive numerical results for both tensile and compressive point loads are obtained.
Detecting the Ambiguity of Sentences: Relationship to Early Reading Skill

The authors of this article report on a preliminary study of 18, 4- and 5-year-old children, followed by a longitudinal study of 44 children, who were tested in the first, second, and third grades....
Purification and preliminary characterization of the zonula occludens toxin receptor from human (CaCo2) and murine (IEC6) intestinal cell lines

In the present study, we report the preliminary characterization of the epithelial cell receptor for Vibrio cholerae zonula occludens toxin (Zot). Zot receptor was purified by ligand-affinity chromatography. Analysis of affinity-purified preparations by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed a protein of ca. 66 kDa. Partial N-terminal sequence obtained from purified murine and human Zot receptor revealed homology between the two proteins and with human α-1-chimaerin. Zot protein domain(s) involved in receptor binding were also analyzed by constructing several in frame deletion derivatives of a recombinant fusion Zot protein tagged with maltose binding protein. Our results suggest that Zot binding to its cellular membrane receptor requires a sequence that spans between amino acids 118 and 299.
An Approach to Ultrasonic Remote Control Systems

Remote control systems for television receivers have, in general, tended to fall into the category described by the block diagram shown in Figure 1. This usually consists of an ultrasonic CW generator which transmits a specific frequency to the receiver for each control function required. The receiver system comprises an ultrasonic pick-up transducer and amplifier feeding the received signal to a series of tuned band-pass amplifiers, one for each frequency. The detected signal is then used to activate the desired control function. The signal frequencies employed are in the 30 to 50kHz range. Some of the problems with this type of system include range and directionality of the transmitter, receiver response to spurious inputs, e. g. coin/key noises, and the complexity of the receiver circuitry and its alignment. It is to this latter problem that this paper principally addresses itself.
The functions of E(Z)/EZH2-mediated methylation of lysine 27 in histone H3

Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are important for maintaining the silenced state of homeotic genes. Biochemical and genetic studies in Drosophila and mammalian cells indicate that PcG proteins function in at least two distinct protein complexes: the ESC-E(Z) or EED-EZH2 complex, and the PRC1 complex. Recent work has shown that at least part of the silencing function of the ESC-E(Z) complex is mediated by its intrinsic activity for methylating histone H3 on lysine 27. In addition to being involved in Hox gene silencing, the complex and its associated histone methyltransferase activity are important in other biological processes including X-inactivation, germline development, stem cell pluripotency and cancer metastasis.
Radionuclide ratios in wet and dry deposition samples from June 1976 through December 1977

Abstract 238 Pu, 239 Pu and 137 Cs in rain and dry fallout and 90 Sr in rain samples were measured at Woods Hole, Massachusetts, from June 1976 through December 1977. The dry fallout was estimated to be about 7.8% of the total deposition of 239 Pu and 137 Cs. 239 Pu/ 137 Cs ratios, almost constant at about 0.011 in rain or dry fallout, February through December 1977, suggested that fractionation between the refractory and volatile radionuclides is insignificant in stratospheric fallout. This supports the idea of regional homogeneity of radionuclide ratios in fallout.
Application of dynamical systems theory to the high angle of attack dynamics of the F-14

Dynamical systems theory has been used to study the nonlinear dynamics of the F-14. An eight degree of freedom model that does not include the control system present in operational F-14's has been analyzed. The aerodynamic model, supplied by NASA, includes nonlinearities as functions of the angles of attack and sideslip, the rotation rate, and the elevator deflection. A continuation method has been used to calculate the steady states of the F-14 as continuous functions of the control surface deflections. Bifurcations of these steady states have been used to predict the onset of wing rock, spiral divergence, and jump phenomena which cause the aircraft to enter a spin. A simple feedback control system was designed to eliminate the wing rock and spiral divergence instabilities. The predictions were verified with numerical simulations.
Imaging Efficiency and Contrast Enhancement in the Fast Gradient Refocusing Technique

The gradient recalled (refocused) echo technique produces images in very short scanning time. The signal to noise/unit time of the image is slightly better at small flip angles, provided T1 is estimated carefully. A short TR without dead space at low flip angles allows acquisition of high resolution 3D contiguous volume data within a few minutes. The gradient refocusing technique, however, can produce image artifacts due to uncompensated gradient induced phase shifts. The use of phase encoding gradient reversal removes the artifact, but also introduces signal dependence on transverse magnetization, which results in reduced tissue contrast. In this work we demonstrate that by inserting a strong gradient at the end of the pulse sequence in the slice encoding direction, tissue contrast is restored to the original Jevel with the absence of phase artifact.
Surface and interfacial tension of the Whiterocks bitumen and its relationship to bitumen release from tar sands during hot water processing

The surface tension of bitumen recovered from Whiterocks tar sand was determined to be 23.6 m Nm−1 at 20 °C and 20.5 m Nm−1 at 60 °C using the Wilhelmy plate technique. The effect of aqueous phase composition on interfacial tension was examined. In the case of pH variation, a maximum interfacial tension of 11–15 m Nm−1 was obtained between pH = 4.8 and pH = 8.7. Increasing the concentration of sodium tripolyphosphate to 0.05 M at pH = 9 lowered the interfacial tension to γBW < 2 m Nm−1. Samples of the Whiterocks tar sand were immersed in alkaline solutions (pH = 8.0–11.5) and mechanisms of bitumen separation from mineral grains were observed through a microscope. It was observed that the bitumen release from tar sand may be stimulated by a change in the bitumen-water (BW) interfacial tension as can be accomplished by varying the concentration of hydrogen ions and/or sodium tripolyphosphate. Thus, in addition to bitumen viscosity considerations, interfacial tension plays an important role in the hot water processing of tar sands. Effective separation of bitumen from Whiterocks bitumen in hot water experiments was obtained for the bitumen-water interfacial tension of less than 2–3 m Nm−1, although satisfactory bitumen recovery was still observed for larger interfacial tensions, up to about 7 m Nm−1.
Interaction Between Permeation and Gating in a Putative Pore Domain Mutant in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a chloride channel with distinctive kinetics. At the whole-cell level, CFTR currents in response to voltage steps are time independent for wild type and for the many mutants reported so far. Single channels open for periods lasting up to tens of seconds; the openings are interrupted by brief closures at hyperpolarized, but not depolarized, potentials. Here we report a serine-to-phenylalanine mutation (S1118F) in the 11th transmembrane domain that confers voltage-dependent, single-exponential current relaxations and moderate inward rectification of the macroscopic currents upon expression in Xenopus oocytes. At steady state, the S1118F-CFTR single-channel conductance rectifies, corresponding to the whole-cell rectification. In addition, the open-channel burst duration is decreased 10-fold compared with wild-type channels. S1118F-CFTR currents are blocked in a voltage-dependent manner by diphenylamine-2-carboxylate (DPC); the affinity of S1118F-CFTR for DPC is similar to that of the wild-type channel, but blockade exhibits moderately reduced voltage dependence. Selectivity of the channel to a range of anions is also affected by this mutation. Furthermore, the permeation properties change during the relaxations, which suggests that there is an interaction between gating and permeation in this mutant. The existence of a mutation that confers voltage dependence upon CFTR currents and that changes kinetics and permeation properties of the channel suggests a functional role for the 11th transmembrane domain in the pore in the wild-type channel.
Work and Stratification: Structural Perspectives

This introductory article describes four major structural perspectives on work-related inequalities: dual economy/economic segmentation; labor market segmentation; organization; and class. The relations among these approaches are discussed and it is argued that they need to be integrated if we are to understand structural sources of inequality. Links are then drawn between these structural approaches and the papers in this special issue.
Detecting Malicious Logic Through Structural Checking

Hardware is just as susceptible as software to "hacker attacks", through inclusion of malicious logic; and the consequences of such an attack could be disastrous! The impact of software viruses has been felt, at one time or another, by the entire computerized world, through loss of productivity, loss of system resources or data, or mere inconvenience. However, the nature of malicious logic and defending against it is fundamentally different from its software counterpart. Malicious logic has the added dimension of not being removable once encapsulated in the system. This paper will identify hardware vulnerabilities and will outline an automated method, called structural checking, to detect and prevent malicious logic from becoming incorporated into an ASIC, which could cause catastrophic system failure, security breaches, or other dire consequences.
Control of branch‐site choice by a group II intron

The branch site of group II introns is typically a bulged adenosine near the 3′‐end of intron domain 6. The branch site is chosen with extraordinarily high fidelity, even when the adenosine is mutated to other bases or if the typically bulged adenosine is paired. Given these facts, it has been difficult to discern the mechanism by which the proper branch site is chosen. In order to dissect the determinants for branch‐point recognition, new mutations were introduced in the vicinity of the branch site and surrounding domains. Single mutations did not alter the high fidelity for proper branch‐site selection. However, several combinations of mutations moved the branch site systematically to new positions along the domain 6 stem. Analysis of those mutants, together with a new alignment of domain 5 and domain 6 sequences, reveals a set of structural determinants that appear to govern branch‐site selection by group II introns.
Timing errors in two children with suspected childhood apraxia of speech (sCAS) during speech and music-related tasks.

Impaired speech prosody has been identified as a critical feature of suspected childhood apraxia of speech (sCAS). Lexical stress productions of children with sCAS have been characterized as ‘excessive/equal/misplaced’. This investigation examines two potential explanations of this particular deficit, articulatory difficulty and impaired intrinsic timing. Two children with a diagnosis of sCAS (ages 4 years, 3 months and 9 years, 5 months) and two age-matched controls were observed during three speech and three music tasks. Acoustic analysis revealed that in all tasks, the performance of the controls was more accurate than that of the children with sCAS. Timing structures and accuracy are discussed with respect to diagnostic status, age, speech and music tasks, and timing unit size.