cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The sqt-1 gene of C. elegans encodes a collagen critical for organismal morphogenesis

Different mutations in the sqt-1 gene of C. elegans can lengthen, shorten, or helically twist the entire animal. We have cloned the sqt-1 gene and have shown that it encodes a collagen. sqt-1 was localized to a 35 kb region of DNA by physical mapping of chromosomal deficiencies. A transposon (Tc1)-induced mutation of sqt-1 was generated and utilized to identify the sqt-1 gene within this 35 kb region. Sequence analysis of the sqt-1 gene shows that it encodes a 32 kd collagen polypeptide that is similar in size and structure to other members of the C. elegans collagen family. The Tc1 insertion mutant has no detectable sqt-1 transcripts, yet it is morphologically normal, indicating that the null phenotype of sqt-1 is wild type. These results demonstrate that collagen mutations can have dramatic effects on organismal morphology.
Measuring Corruption: A Critique of Indicators in Eastern Europe and Central Asia

Concern about corruption has stimulated the creation of a multiplicity of indicators by a multiplicity of methods by the World Bank, World Economic Forum, Transparency International and commercial rating agencies. However, the construction of indices varies, raising substantive and methodological issues, which are reviewed with particular reference to post-Communist transition societies in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. This paper systematically examines indicators, starting with the definitional distinction between measures of administrative corruption as distinct from state capture. It pays particular attention to problems arising from the aggregation of indicators from multiple sources, and the extent to which the changing composition of cross-country indicators limits trend analysis. It concludes that many of the problems of aggregation may be avoided by using single source and single dimension indexes.
An Optimal Automated Zone Allocation Approach for Risk Assessment of Gas Turbine Engine Components

High-energy rotating components of gas turbine engines may contain rare material anomalies that can lead to uncontained engine failures. The Federal Aviation Administration and the aircraft engine industry have been developing enhanced life management methods to address the rare but significant threats posed by these anomalies. One of the outcomes of this effort has been a zone-based risk assessment methodology in which component fracture risk is estimated using groupings of elements called zones that are associated with 2D finite element (FE) stress and temperature models. Previous papers have presented processes for creation of zones either manually or via an automatic algorithm in which zones are assigned to each finite element in a component model. These processes may require significant human time and computer time. The focus of this paper is on the optimal allocation of multiple finite elements to zones that minimizes the total number of zones required to compute the fracture risk of a component. An algorithm is described that uses a relatively coarse response surface method to estimate the conditional risk value at each node in a finite element model. Zones are initially defined for each finite element in the model, and the algorithm identifies and merges zones based on minimizing the influence on component risk. The process continues until all of the zones have been merged into a single zone. The zone sequence is applied in reverse order to identify the minimum number of zones that satisfies component target risk or convergence threshold constraints. This solution provides the optimal allocation of finite elements to zones. The algorithm is demonstrated for a representative gas turbine engine component. The approach significantly improves the computational efficiency of the zone-based risk analysis process.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Arthritis in HLA-B27 Transgenic Animals

This review focuses on investigations of rats and mice transgenic for HLA-B27; these animals have been investigated for several years as potential models for the human spondyloarthropathies. Spontaneous multisystem disease occurs in rats with high expression of B27 and human beta2-microglobulin (hbeta2m). The disease is T-cell-dependent and is sensitive to both environmental and genetic manipulation. A spontaneous arthritis and enthesopathy has been observed by some investigators in nontransgenic mice which seems to be more prevalent in B27 transgenic mice. Peripheral arthritis has also been reported in B27 transgenic mice that lack mouse beta2m. Potential insights from these animals into the pathogenesis of B27-related disease are discussed.
CORTICOTROPIN-RELEASING FACTOR RECEPTORS IN HUMAN SMALL CELL LUNG CARCINOMA CELLS : RADIOLIGAND BINDING, SECOND MESSENGER, AND NORTHERN BLOT ANALYSIS DATA

Numerous peptides, growth factors, and receptors have been identified in small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) cells. The present study was designed to examine the radioligand binding, second messenger, and messenger RNA (mRNA) characteristics of CRF receptors in a variety of SCLC lines and to compare their characteristics to CRF receptors in the mouse pituitary tumor AtT-20 cells. The human SCLC cell lines NCI-H69, H82, H146, H209, H345, H446, and H510A and control AtT-20 cells all demonstrated specific [125I]Tyr(o)-ovine CRF ([125I]oCRF) binding, which was linear with increasing protein concentrations, saturable, reversible, and of high affinity. NCI-H82 cells showed the highest level of specific [125I]oCRF binding (approximately 60% of the total binding). Scatchard analysis revealed a single homogeneous class of binding sites in NCI-H82 and AtT-20 cells, with Kd values of 263 +/- 48 and 285 +/- 75 pM, respectively, and binding capacities of 74 +/- 7 and 70 +/- 13 fmol/mg protein, respectively. [125I]oCRF-bi...
Atom transfer radical polymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate

Atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) has been used to directly prepare linear pHEMA of controlled molecular weight and low polydispersity. Reaction conditions were adjusted to successfully polymerize the functional, polar methacrylate monomer. These adjustments included the use of a mixed solvent system consisting of methyl ethyl ketone and 1-propanol, lowering the temperature to 50 °C or less and using an alkyl bromide initiator with a copper chloride catalyst. The Cu/2,2‘-bipyridyl (bpy) complex, normally a heterogeneous mixture in nonpolar, organic solvents, was completely soluble in the above solvent system. A block copolymer was prepared with a poly(methyl methacrylate) macroinitiator. The monomer can also be protected and polymerized under conditions very similar to those used for the ATRP of methyl methacrylate.
Reflections on doing policy-relevant sociology: How to cope with MADD mothers

The author’s experiences in studying the ability of law to deter drunk driving lead him to conclude that research is selectively used by various politically-involved groups. These groups frequently are committed to specific definitions of a policy problem and to specific approaches to its resolution. The researcher finds that his product is not used for the purpose of selecting among alternative policy options, but instead it serves to supply rationalizations for positions to which the involved groups are previously committed.
Helping Hands: A Guidebook for Volunteer Meal Providers

Helping Hands: A Guidebook for Volunteer Meal Providers Author(s): J. Jennings 1 R. Ward 2 K. Kolasa3; 1Nutrition Science East Carolina University Greenville NC 2East Carolina University Greenville NC 3Family Medicine and Pediatrics East Carolina University Greenville NC Learning Outcome: Participants will be able to explain how to apply strategies to help food donors promote food safety practices and to prepare nutritional and cost-conscious meals. â€œHelping Handsâ€ is a 32-page practical resource for volunteer meal donors. The objective of this project was to develop a useful tool for volunteers providing prepared meals to soup kitchens homeless shelters Ronald McDonald House and a cancer lodge. It was created in response to requests from local agencies that expressed concerns regarding the food safety practices and nutritional quality of meals being donated. They desired a document that would include basic nutrition and food safety principles for populations at risk for malnutrition and/or infection. Additionally they desired recipes for budget-friendly meals that could be prepared by busy volunteers. A literature and internet search and a query to dietitians on several Listserves found no existing documents to fulfill these needs. The content was outlined and food safety information and recipes were gathered from sources including the USDA and CDC websites. The guide includes over thirty recipes with nutrition information basic food safety guidelines time and cost-saving tips components of healthy meals and testimonials from volunteers and agency personnel. Nine food nutrition and food safety specialists on the FNSPEC Listserve responded to a request for reviewers and provided comments on accuracy format and readability. A two-page brochure was developed to promote the guide. The success of â€œHelping Handsâ€ will be evaluated by the comparative number of nutritionally balanced meals served the implementation of proper food safety practices and the overall cost of meals to volunteers. The guidebook is found at: http://www.ecu.edu/cs-dhs/fammed/index.cfm Funding Disclosure: None Sept 2011 Suppl Abstracts Vol III No 9 Journal of the AMERICAN DIETETIC ASSOCIATION / A-87
Improved tools for indoor ZigBee warwalking

Secure ZigBee wireless sensor and control networks use 128-bit AES encryption to defend against message sniffing and unauthorized access. However, the low cost and low complexity of ZigBee devices makes them vulnerable to physical attacks such as tampering and network key extraction. Network administrators and penetration testers require tools such as Zbfind to accurately locate ZigBee hardware and evaluate physical security. The open source Zbfind tool estimates distance to ZigBee devices in real time using received signal strength and a distance prediction model. We collect 4500 signal strength measurements along nine walking paths toward ZigBee transmitters in three office buildings. We find that the log-distance path loss model used by Zbfind predicts transmitter distance with 92.5% mean absolute percentage error. We construct an alternative linear model that reduces error to 21%.
Use of Growth Hormone for Non—Growth Hormone Deficient Children-Reply

In Reply. —The comments of Dr Diller are very interesting. We expect that the findings reported in our study are likely to be applicable to other analogous conditions involving difficult medical decisions. To put our findings in perspective, the use of hypothetical case scenarios (as in our study) provides insight into medical decision making that can be a critical foundation for developing normative data and building consensus. Contrary to some interpretations in the popular press, we see our data as indicating that physicians are thoughtful and careful in decisions about growth hormone, use multiple criteria in considering growth hormone treatment, and, in this sense, may be considered somewhat restrained in recommendations to use growth hormone.
Comparisons of Some Chi-Squared Goodness-of-Fit Test Statistics in Sparse One-Way Multinomials

The behavior of Pearson's X2 test, the likelihood ratio test Y2 and the two of its derivatives, G2 and Gk2, the Freeman-Tukey test (FT) and the Cressie and Read test Statistic I(2/3) are examined in this study. Estimated attained α levels based on 1000 simulated samples when the approximating distribution is χk-12, are computed for these tests for the various values of k, n and seven null hypotheses. Results from estimated power computations indicate that none of the test statistics has a clear advantage over any others, and that the choice of which test to use must therefore rest mainly on the performances with regards to the attained α levels when the χ2 approximation is invoked. In this respect, the log-normal approximation proposed by Lawal and Upton (1980) is strongly recommended. This is closely followed by the I(2/3).
Disruption of mitochondrial respiration by melatonin in MCF-7 cells.

Clinical and laboratory studies have provided evidence of oncostatic activity by the pineal neurohormone melatonin. However, these studies have not elucidated its mechanism of action. The following series of MCF-7 breast tumor cell studies conducted in the absence of exogenous steroid hormones provide evidence for a novel mechanism of oncostatic activity by this endogenous hormone. We observed a 40--60% loss of MCF-7 cells after 20-h treatment with 100 nM melatonin, which confirmed and extended previous reports of its oncostatic potency. Interestingly, there were no observed changes in tritiated thymidine uptake, suggesting a lack of effect on cell cycle/nascent DNA synthesis. Further evidence of a cytocidal effect came from morphologic observations of acute cell death and autophagocytosis accompanied by degenerative changes in mitochondria. Studies of mitochondrial function via standard polarography revealed a significant increase in oxygen consumption in melatonin-treated MCF-7 cells. Enzyme-substrate studies of electron transport chain (complex IV) activity in detergent permeabilized cells demonstrated a concomitant 53% increase (p < 0.01) in cytochrome c oxidase activity. Additional studies of succinate dehydrogenase activity (complex II) as determined by reduction of (3-4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide demonstrated a significant increase (p < 0.05) in melatonin-treated cells and further confirmed the accelerated ET activity. Finally, there was a 64% decrease (p < 0.05) in cellular ATP levels in melatonin-treated cells. The G-protein-coupled melatonin receptor antagonist luzindole abrogated the cytotoxic and mitochondrial effects. These studies suggest a receptor-modulated pathway of cytotoxicity in melatonin-treated MCF-7 tumor cells with apparent uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation.
A 23-bp sequence element from human neurotropic JC virus is responsive to NF-kappa B subunits.

The regulatory region of the human neurotropic JC virus (JCV) is composed of several cis-acting motifs that confer cell type specificity to viral gene transcription and enable the viral promoters to respond to extracellular stimuli. For example, the bidirectional 98-bp tandem repeat sequences, positioned between the JCV early and late genes, were shown to be responsible for basal and activated levels of viral gene transcription in central nervous system (CNS) cells. Additionally, the NF-kappaB site located approximately 75 bp from the repeats on the early side of the viral genome was also found to influence both levels of viral transcription. Recently, we isolated a novel JCV variant, JCV(Phila-1), from a clinical specimen that contains a 23-bp sequence element (23-bpse) within its promoter-enhancer region. Here we demonstrate that this element is responsive to an extracellular stimulatory factor, such as phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), and can augment the basal levels of the viral early and to a lesser degree late promoter activities in cells derived from the CNS. The 23-bpse, by associating with nuclear proteins present in uninduced cells, forms a 40-kDa DNA-protein complex. Although no direct correlation between transcriptional enhancement of the JCV promoter by PMA treatment and the level of the 40-kDa DNA-protein complex was observed, results from site-directed mutagenesis indicated that formation of this complex is critical for the transcriptional activation of the viral promoter by PMA. These observations suggested that transcriptional enhancement of the JCV promoter activity upon PMA treatment may be an indirect event and mediated by an intermediary factor(s). In this respect, we demonstrated that overexpression of the inducible NF-kappaB subunits, p50 and p65, enhanced transcriptional activity of the JCV promoter through the 23-bp region with no evidence for their direct association with the 23-bpse DNA. Of importance, the p50/p65-induced JCV promoter activity requires the nucleotide sequences within the 23-bpse that are critical for the assembly of the 40-kDa DNA-protein complex. Thus, it is likely that the NF-kappaB subunits, by recruiting the cellular factors such as those associated with the 40-kDa DNA-protein complex, influence the basal level of the viral gene transcription. The implications of these findings with respect to regulation of viral and cellular genomes by extracellular stimuli and NF-kappaB pathway are discussed.
PC12 Cells that Lack Synaptotagmin I Exhibit Loss of a Subpool of Small Dense Core Vesicles

Neurons communicate by releasing neurotransmitters that are stored in intracellular vesicular compartments. PC12 cells are frequently used as a model secretory cell line that is described to have two subpools of vesicles: small clear vesicles and dense core vesicles. We measured transmitter molecules released from vesicles in NGF-differentiated PC12 cells using carbon-fiber amperometry, and relative diameters of individual vesicles using electron microscopy. Both amperometry and electron micrograph data were analyzed by statistical and machine learning methods for Gaussian mixture models. An electron microscopy size correction algorithm was used to predict and correct for observation bias of vesicle size due to tangential slices through some vesicles. Expectation maximization algorithms were used to perform maximum likelihood estimation for the Gaussian parameters of different populations of vesicles, and were shown to be better than histogram and cumulative distribution function methods for analyzing mixed populations. The Bayesian information criterion was used to determine the most likely number of vesicle subpools observed in the amperometric and electron microscopy data. From this analysis, we show that there are three major subpools, not two, of vesicles stored and released from PC12 cells. The three subpools of vesicles include small clear vesicles and two subpools of dense core vesicles, a small and a large dense core vesicle subpool. Using PC12 cells stably transfected with short-hairpin RNA targeted to synaptotagmin I, an exocytotic Ca2+ sensor, we show that the presence and release of the small dense core vesicle subpool is dependent on synaptotagmin I. Furthermore, synaptotagmin I also plays a role in the formation and/or maintenance of the small dense core vesicle subpool in PC12 cells.
Exploring Stakeholder Values and Interests in Evaluation.

One of the challenges facing program evaluation education is how to bridge the need to train students in theoretical and methodological foundations, and also prepare them for the unpredictability and complex environment outside the classroom. This issue is particularly challenging in terms of understanding stakeholder values and interests. The Bella City Zoo role-play scenario is an effort to integrate traditional lecture material with role-playing to give students the opportunity to learn about stakeholder participation and to put that material into immediate practice.
The Gulf of Maine biogeographical information system project: developing a spatial data management framework in support of OBIS

Central to the development of an inventory of marine life and improved conceptual understanding of the mechanisms that dynamically shape species distribution patterns is the implementation of strategies aimed at enhancing assimilation and access to existing biogeographical information. Using the Internet as a medium, the Gulf of Maine Biogeographic Information System (GMBIS) project provides a framework and a set of reusable tools for the integration, visualization, analysis and dissemination of diverse types of biogeographical and oceanographic information. End-to-end viability of this approach is demonstrated in the context of a series of scientific storylines and a pilot application for the Gulf of Maine (GoM), a well-studied ecosystem that has been subject to large-scale perturbation due to overfishing. Databases at the core of the information system include those of the DFO Bedford Institution of Oceanography and Atlantic Reference Center, which are the product of multidisciplinary research efforts over the last several decades. Development of GMBIS may serve not only as a model for OBIS, but it may also provide a tool supporting new international and Canadian directives for integrated marine resource management. This paper summarizes the status of the GMBIS project, currently in its final phase, and outlines possible future directions in information system development for the CoML.
Nerve elements in the planula of the hydrozoan Pennaria tiarella

The nerve elements described by light microscopy for the hydrozoan planula have not previously been identified ultrastructurally. This electron microscopic study confirms the presence of two distinct nerve cell types in the planula of the hydroid Pennaria tiarella. Type I nerve cells occur at the base of the ectodermal epithelium just apical to the forming foot processes of the epitheliomuscle cells. The perikaryon contains mitochondria, microtubules, neurosecretory granules, and a prominent Golgi body. Neurites rich in microtubules project from these cells and form a nerve plexus of transversely and longitudinally oriented processes throughout the length of the planula. The Type II nerve cell extends from the free surface of the planula to the mesoglea and bears a single cilium surrounded by long microvilli. The Type I and II nerve cells closely resemble the sensory-motor-interneurons and neurosensory cells of Hydra.
A RESPONSE TO ERVIN LASZLO: QUANTUM AND CONSCIOUSNESS

. I respond to Ervin Laszlo's suggestions and criticism regarding my essay in this issue of Zygon. Virtual atomic orbitals are used as a model to illustrate the existence of a general realm of potentiality in physical reality from which the actual world emanates. Laszlo's suggestions for “paradigm repair” are supported and accepted as essentially being in agreement with my intentions and as offering highly useful clarifications. I compare virtual states to historic ideas of forms as metaphysical principles of being that inspire thoughts regarding the actions of a Cosmic Consciousness in the processes of the universe. Metaphysical and theological interpretations of the results of scientific research are defended, provided that they are not used to interfere a priori with the technical program of scientific research.
Searching Protein Sequence Libraries: Comparison of the Sensitivity and Selectivity of the Smith-Waterman and FASTA Algorithms

The sensitivity and selectivity of the FASTA and the Smith-Waterman protein sequence comparison algorithms were evaluated using the superfamily classification provided in the National Biomedical Research Foundation/Protein Identification Resource (PIR) protein sequence database. Sequences from each of the 34 superfamilies in the PIR database with 20 or more members were compared against the protein sequence database. The similarity scores of the related and unrelated sequences were determined using either the FASTA program or the Smith-Waterman local similarity algorithm. These two sets of similarity scores were used to evaluate the ability of the two comparison algorithms to identify distantly related protein sequences. The FASTA program using the ktup = 2 sensitivity setting performed as well as the Smith-Waterman algorithm for 19 of the 34 superfamilies. Increasing the sensitivity by setting ktup = 1 allowed FASTA to perform as well as Smith-Waterman on an additional 7 superfamilies. The rigorous Smith-Waterman method performed better than FASTA with ktup = 1 on 8 superfamilies, including the globins, immunoglobulin variable regions, calmodulins, and plastocyanins. Several strategies for improving the sensitivity of FASTA were examined. The greatest improvement in sensitivity was achieved by optimizing a band around the best initial region found for every library sequence. For every superfamily except the globins and immunoglobulin variable regions, this strategy was as sensitive as a full Smith-Waterman. For some sequences, additional sensitivity was achieved by including conserved but nonidentical residues in the lookup table used to identify the initial region.
Application of simple hardening techniques in system design and verification of survival by EMP and γ tests

The design and test verification of this system intended for use on the ground have demonstrated the success of the often quoted EMP and γ hardening techniques such as radio frequency shielded enclosures, single point grounding, shielded cables, surge arrestors, series resistance limiting, and circumvention. All of these simple techniques were applied in the design of the system described in this paper. This paper discusses in some detail the design and the problems associated with four of these techniques, namely series resistance limiting, circumvention, surge arrestors, and hard memory. The system survived exposure to EMP fields of 53 kV/m and dose rates of ≈ 1010 rads(Si)/s. These results also showed that the failure dose rate for a memory subsystem will be less than the dose rate for the discrete devices if the design does not take circuit interactions with the memory devices into account. Test data predicts that the memory failure level of midrange 1010 to 1011 rads(Si)/s can be achieved with careful circuit design.
The fluorescent protein palette: tools for cellular imaging

This critical review provides an overview of the continually expanding family of fluorescent proteins (FPs) that have become essential tools for studies of cell biology and physiology. Here, we describe the characteristics of the genetically encoded fluorescent markers that now span the visible spectrum from deep blue to deep red. We identify some of the novel FPs that have unusual characteristics that make them useful reporters of the dynamic behaviors of proteins inside cells, and describe how many different optical methods can be combined with the FPs to provide quantitative measurements in living systems (227 references). “If wood is rubbed with the Pulmo marinus, it will have all the appearance of being on fire; so much so, indeed, that a walking-stick, thus treated, will light the way like a torch” (translation of Pliny the Elder from John Bostock, 1855).
Firm Characteristics and Voluntary Management Reports on Internal Control

This study provides evidence on the nature of voluntary management reports on internal control (MRIC), and on the characteristics of firms issuing such reports, before internal control reports were mandated under Section 404 of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act. We examine the association between firm characteristics and the voluntary inclusion of an MRIC in the firm's annual report. Our analysis of 397 midsized firms in 1998 indicates that a voluntary MRIC is more likely for firms that are larger, have an audit committee that meets more often, have a greater level of institutional ownership, and have more rapid income growth. We find that a voluntary MRIC is less likely for companies with more rapid sales growth. Slightly more than one‐third of our sample issues an MRIC. None of the voluntary MRICs mention any material weaknesses; no reports include an auditor attestation; less than half (41 percent) of the reports include a statement that controls were effective; and only three of these reports include the criteri...
Supporting Students Working Together on Math with Social Dialogue

In this paper, we describe an environment for supporting collaborative problem solving that uses dialogue agents both for creating a collaborative attitude between students as well as for offering instruction. We evaluated the effect of the social dialogue agents on student collaboration by contrasting a condition that included the social agents with a condition that did not include them. Both conditions involved dialogue agents for offering math instruction. Our finding is that the social agents changed the attitude students displayed towards one another as well as their perceptions of how much help they gave a received. There was some weak evidence suggestive of a positive learning effect. Index Terms: tutorial dialogue, computer supported collaborative learning
Sex comes in from the cold: the integration of sex and pattern.

There has recently been a revolution in our understanding of how the Drosophila sex-determination hierarchy generates somatic sexual dimorphism. Most significantly, the sex hierarchy has been shown to modulate the activities of well-known signaling molecules (FGF, Wnt and TGFβ proteins) and transcription factors (BAB and DAC) to direct various sex-specific aspects of growth and differentiation. As some of the genes encoding these proteins are also the targets of Hox gene action, these and other findings are revealing the levels at which the sex determination and Hox patterning pathways are integrated to control growth, morphogenesis and differentiation.
Impact of via-line contact on Cu interconnect electromigration performance

Damascene processing creates special features for copper interconnect electromigration (EM). Though the fast Cu diffusion path is along the interface between Cu and the top cap layer, the early EM fails are often associated with vias, either by voiding in the via (via depletion), or by voiding underneath the via (line depletion). While most of the early EM fails for via depletion are related to the liner quality in vias, for line depletion EM the contact configuration between the via and the underlying line is critical to the failure characteristics. The contact between the via and the line liner below can effectively prevent or minimize open-circuit type EM failures. Redundant vias can significantly improve the EM performance in both the median failure time (t/sub 50/) and the distribution shape (sigma, /spl sigma/), depending on the arrangement of these vias relative to the line below. This paper presents an EM study of Cu interconnects with various via/line contact configurations. Results from single via and multiple via contacts, with and without redundancy to the underlying lines, are discussed.
Increased In Vitro Adherence and On-Farm Persistence of Predominant and Persistent Listeria monocytogenes Strains in the Milking System

Dairy farms are a reservoir for Listeria monocytogenes, and the reduction of this pathogen at the farm level is important for reducing human exposure. The objectives of this research were to study the diversity of L. monocytogenes strains on a single dairy farm, assess strain dynamics within the farm, identify potential sources of L. monocytogenes in bulk tank milk and milk filters, and assess the adherence abilities of representative strains. A total of 248 L. monocytogenes isolates were analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Combined AscI and ApaI restriction analysis yielded 40 PFGE types (strains). The most predominant strains were T (28.6%), D (22.6%), and F (14.9%). A high level of heterogeneity of strains among isolates from fecal (Simpson's index of diversity [SID] = 0.96) and environmental (SID = 0.96) samples was observed. A higher homogeneity of strains was observed among isolates from milk filters (SID = 0.71) and bulk tank milk (SID = 0.65). Six of 17 L. monocytogenes isolates (35.3%) were classified in an in vitro assay as having a "low adherence ability," 9 (52.9%) were classified as having a "medium adherence ability," and 2 (11.8%) were classified as having a "high adherence ability." The L. monocytogenes strains that were predominant and persistent showed significantly better adherence than did strains that were only sporadic, predominant, or persistent (P = 0.0006). Our results suggest that the milking system was exposed to several L. monocytogenes strains from different sources. Only 3 strains, however, were successful in persisting within the milking system, suggesting that some strains are more suitable to that particular ecological environment than others.
Latest developments in experimental and computational approaches to characterize protein-lipid interactions.

Understanding the functional roles of all the molecules in cells is an ultimate goal of modern biology. An important facet is to understand the functional contributions from intermolecular interactions, both within a class of molecules (e.g. protein–protein) or between classes (e.g. protein-DNA). While the technologies for analyzing protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions are well established, the field of protein–lipid interactions is still relatively nascent. Here, we review the current status of the experimental and computational approaches for detecting and analyzing protein–lipid interactions. Experimental technologies fall into two principal categories, namely solution-based and array-based methods. Computational methods include large–scale data-driven analyses and predictions/dynamic simulations based on prior knowledge of experimentally identified interactions. Advances in the experimental technologies have led to improved computational analyses and vice versa, thereby furthering our understanding of protein–lipid interactions and their importance in biological systems.
Refining the sensory and motor ratunculus of the rodent upper extremity: evaluation of the C7 nerve root using fMRI and direct nerve stimulation

Background Since the 1980s, the C7 nerve root has gained clinical relevance as a donor nerve in severe brachial plexus root avulsion injuries. Despite success with the cross-chest C7 nerve transfer, inducing injury on an otherwise normal side hinders global acceptance. By sacrificing the C7 nerve root, a predictable pattern of transient sequelae is seen, including extensor weakness and index and middle finger anesthesia. The purpose of this study is to observe cortical activity during direct stimulation of the C7 nerve root using blood oxygen level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in a rat model.
Prior temperature exposure affects subsequent chilling sensitivity

Mikal E. Saltveit, Jr.Saitveit, M, E,, Jr, 1991, Prior temperature exposure affects subsequent chillingsensitivity, - Physiol, Plant, 82: 529-536,The chilling sensitivity of small discs or segments of tissue excised from chilling-sensitive species was significantly altered by prior temperature exposure subsequentto holding the tissue at chilling temperatures as measured by a number of physiolog-ical processes sensitive to chilling. This temperature conditioning was reversible by anadditional temperature exposure before chilling, and mature-green and red-ripetomato tissue exhibit similar chilling sensitivities.Exposing pericarp discs excised from tomato fruit (Lycopersicon escuientum Mill, cv,Castelmart), a chilling-sensitive species, to temperatures from 0 to 37°C for 6 h beforechilhng the discs at 2,5°C for 4 days significantly altered the rate of ion leakage fromthe discs, but had no effect on the rate of ion leakage before chiUing and only aminimal effect on discs held at a non-chilling temperature of 12°C, Exposing chilling-sensitive tissue to temperatures below that required to induce heat-shock proteins butabove 20°C significantly increased chilling sensitivity as compared to tissue exposedto temperatures between 10 and 20°C. Rates of ion leakage after 4 days of chilling at2,5°C were higher from fruit and vegetative tissue of chilling-sensitive species {Cucu-mis sativus L, cv, Poinsett 76, and Cucurbita pepo L, cv. Young Beauty) that werepreviously exposed for 6 h to 32°C than from similar tissue exposed to 12°C, Exposureto 32 and 12°C had no effect on the rate of ion leakage from fruit tissue of chillingtolerant species {Malus domestica Borkh, cv. Golden Delicious, Pyrus communis L,cv, Bartlett), Ethylene and CO2 production were higher and iycopene synthesis waslower in chilled tomato pericarp discs that were previously exposed for 6 h to 32''Cthan the values from tissue exposed to 12°C for 6 h before chilling. Increased chillingsensitivity induced by a 6 h exposure to 32''C could be reversed by subsequentexposure to 12°C for 6 h.Key words — Apple, carbon dioxide, cucumber, Cucumis sativus, Cucurbita pepo,ethylene, ion leakage, Iycopene, Lycopersicon escuientum, Malus domestica, pear,Pyrus communis, squash, tomato,Mikal E, Saltveit, Jr,, Mann Laboratory, Dept of Vegetable Crops, Univ, of Cali-fornia, Davis, CA 95616, USA,IntroductionMany plants of tropical and sub-tropical origin, andsome tissues from plants of temperate origin are injuredby expostire to non-freezing temperattires below 12°C(Bramlage 1982, Couey 1982, Lyons 1973, Saltveit andMorris 1990), Chilling-sensitive piants include avoca-dos, bananas, cucumbers, peppers and totnatoes, whilechilling-resistant plants include apples and pears. To-mato fhiit are particularly stisceptible to chilling injuryat the mattire-green stage when they are noenally har-vested and shipped. The response of tomato fruit toReceived 19 November, 1990; revised 30 March, 1991
A noncontiguous 2-level spinal injury in a young female driver due to a 3-point seat belt restraint.

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this case is to describe noncontiguous fracture and dislocations of the thoracolumbosacral spine in a 23-year-old female driver with a 3-point seat belt restraint. Clinical Features A 23-year-old woman presented to us after a motor vehicle accident while driving with a 3-point seat belt restraint. She was neurologically intact except for loss of motor function in the distribution of the L5 nerve root in the right lower limb. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed fracture and dislocation of T3 with considerable retrolisthesis and complete anterolisthesis of L5 over the sacrum. Intervention and Outcome Both fractures were reduced and fixed with bone graft and instrumentation. She was discharged a month later without any further neurologic deterioration. Conclusions To our knowledge, this case is the first report in the literature of a seat belt safety restraint causing 2 noncontiguous fracture dislocations of the spine. Although the consensus is that seat belts can prevent most spine injuries, this case shows that the seat belt can be a contributor to spine injury. It shows that the shoulder-lap restraint can act as 2 fulcrums at the upper and lower bands causing 2 separate fracture dislocations. A thorough radiologic evaluation of the spine with respect to the clinical findings is mandatory in seat belt–restrained road traffic accidents cases.
Twenty-year follow-up study on a patient-fitted temporomandibular joint prosthesis: the Techmedica/TMJ Concepts device.

Purpose To evaluate subjective and objective outcomes of patients receiving Techmedica (currently TMJ Concepts) patient-fitted temporomandibular joint (TMJ) total joint replacement (TJR) devices after 19 to 24 years of service. Patients and Methods This prospective cohort study evaluated 111 patients operated on by 2 surgeons using Techmedica (Camarillo, CA) patient-fitted TMJ TJR devices from November 1989 to July 1993. Patients were evaluated before surgery and at least 19 years after surgery. Subjective evaluations used standard forms and questions with a Likert scale for 1) TMJ pain (0, no pain; 10, worst pain imaginable), 2) jaw function (0, normal function; 10, no movement), 3) diet (0, no restriction; 10, liquid only), and 4) quality of life (QoL; improved, the same, or worse). Objective assessment measured maximum incisal opening (MIO). Comparison analysis of presurgical and longest follow-up data used nonparametric Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon signed rank tests. Spearman correlations evaluated the number of prior surgeries in relation to objective and subjective variables. Results Of the 111 patients, 56 (50.5%) could be contacted and had adequate records for inclusion in the study. Median follow-up was 21 years (interquartile range [IQR], 20 to 22 yr). Mean age at surgery was 38.6 years (standard deviation, 10 yr). Median number of previous TMJ surgeries was 3 (IQR, 4). Presurgical and longest follow-up data comparison showed statistically significant improvement (P < .001) for MIO, TMJ pain, jaw function, and diet. At longest follow-up, 48 patients reported improved QoL, 6 patients reported the same QoL, and 2 patients reported worse QoL. Spearman correlations showed that an increased number of previous surgeries resulted in lower levels of improvement for TMJ pain and MIO. Conclusions At a median of 21 years after surgery, the Techmedica/TMJ Concepts TJR continued to function well. More previous TMJ surgeries indicated a lesser degree of improvement. No devices were removed owing to material wear.
Issues, requirements and support for location-intensive mobile commerce applications

With advances in wireless networking, devices, applications and middleware, a new area of applications has emerged. Termed mobile commerce, these applications have attracted some interest among researchers, developers, carriers, and content providers. One major issue is the location management support that is needed by many location-intensive mobile commerce applications, such as user and location-specific mobile advertising, mobile inventory management, wireless-business reengineering, and mobile financial services. In this paper, we address the location requirements of m-commerce applications from the user, provider and networking perspectives. We also discuss how such requirements may be supported by the exiting and emerging wireless networks. We also present and discuss several open and interesting research problems.
Constraints on Lorentz violation from clock-comparison experiments

Constraints from clock-comparison experiments on violations of Lorentz and CPT symmetry are investigated in the context of a general Lorentz-violating extension of the standard model. The experimental signals are shown to depend on the atomic and ionic species used as clocks. Certain experiments usually regarded as establishing comparable bounds are in this context sensitive to different types of Lorentz violation. Some considerations relevant to possible future measurements are presented. All these experiments are potentially sensitive to Lorentz-violating physics at the Planck scale.
Pharmacodynamics of Caspofungin in a Murine Model of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis: Evidence of Concentration-Dependent Activity

Background. A paucity of data exists regarding the pharmacodynamics of caspofungin (CAS) during invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). We conducted a dosage-fractionation study to characterize the in vivo pharmacodynamics of CAS activity during IPA, using immunosuppressed mice inoculated intranasally with Aspergillus fumigatus. Methods. After single intraperitoneal doses (0.25, 1.0, and 4.0 mg/kg), plasma GAS concentrations were assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The pharmacokinetic data were analyzed by nonparametric population pharmacokinetic analysis. Three dosage groups (0.25, 1.0, and 4.0 mg/kg) fractionated into 3 different dosing intervals (q6, q24, or q48 h) were then used to evaluate the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic effects (percentage of time greater than the minimum effective concentration [MEC], 96-h area under the plasma concentration curve:MEC ratio, and peak concentration in plasma [C max ]:MEC ratio) at clinically achievable exposures. Mice were treated for 96 h and were then euthanized, and their lungs were harvested for analysis of pulmonary fungal burden by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results. A concentration-dependent reduction in mean pulmonary fungal burden was evident in mice in the 1 mg/kg dosage-fractionation group, with significantly lower mean pulmonary fungal burden in mice dosed q48 h versus q6 h (P<.01). A paradoxical increase in pulmonary fungal burden was observed in the highest dosage-fractionation group. Conclusions. GAS demonstrates concentration-dependent pharmacodynamics in the treatment of IPA. The C max :MEC ratio appears to be the parameter most closely associated with the reduction of pulmonary fungal burden.
In Vitro Regulation of the Immune Response by Cyclic AMP and a Thymic Extract

An experimental system has been developed to study the regulation of immune responses by a thymic factor and cyclic AMP. The system employed is a rat spleen cell culture prepared on day 3 after injecting the animals with sheep red blood cells. Antibody production is measured as a function of plaque forming cell numbers and hemagglutination titers. Studies of kinetics of antibody formation in this system indicate that peak production occurs on day 4 to day 5 after antigen administration. Addition of cyclic AMP and a thymic factor at the start of the culture results in an enhancement of antibody production during the peak period. Results of this study indicate that antibody production of the IgM class is regulated in vitro by a thymic factor and 10−5M cyclic AMP. Regulation of the immune response by a thymic factor and cyclic AMP may result in increased conversion of precursor B-cells to antibody forming cells.
Derivate des D-Glucosamins, IX1) Derivate der anomeren D-Benzyl-N-benzoyl-glucosaminide2)

Acetate und Methansulfonate der anomeren D-Benzyl-N-benzoyl-glucosaminide werden beschrieben. In heiser, wasriger Essigsaure bildet D-1β-Benzyl-N-benzoyl-3O-mesyl-glucosaminid bzw. sein 4O.6O-Benzyliden-Derivat durch Inversion an C-3 D-1β-Benzyl-3O-benzoyl-allosaminid. Diese Reaktion tritt unter gleichen oder ahnlichen Bedingungen am entsprechenden α-Anomeren nicht ein. Derivatives of D-Glucosamine, IX1). Derivatives of the Anomeric D-Benzyl-N-benzoylglucosaminides2) Acetates and methanesulfonates of the anomeric D-benzyl-N-benzoylglucosaminides are described. In hot aqueous acetic acid D-1β-benzyl-N-benzoyl-3O-mesylglucosaminide and its 4O,6O-benzylidene derivative are converted to D-1β-benzyl-3O-benzoylallosaminide by inversion at C-3. Under similar conditions this reaction does not occur in the corresponding α-anomers.
Safety and efficacy of procainamide infusions

Thirty-four patients who were resistant to conventional doses of lidocaine received procainamide intravenously according to a pharmacokinetically designed two infusion technique. A mean peak serum concentration of 7.1 mg/liter was achieved with an average loading dose of 989 mg administered over 1 hour. A mean steady state serum concentration of procainamide of 6.5 mg/liter was achieved with a mean dose of 64.4 mg/kg body weight for the first 24 hours of treatment. Dose, renal impairment, the degree of congestive heart failure and acetylator status influenced the steady state serum concentration of procainamide. Dangerous ventricular arrhythmias were abolished in 74 percent of the patients at a steady state level of 6.9 ± 3.7 mg/liter (mean ± standard deviation). Nonresponders to procainamide had a mean steady state serum concentration of procainamide of 4.2 ± 2.1 mg/liter (P < 0.05). Systolic and diastolic blood pressures decreased moderately (10 and 8 percent, respectively), and heart rate decreased 11 percent. The infusion was interrupted in one patient because of hypotension. The duration of electrocardiographic conduction intervals was increased slightly in some patients. It is concluded that procainamide administered by this two infusion method is effective and well tolerated by most patients.