cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of a sugar-sweetened beverage tax two-year post-tax implementation in Seattle, Washington, United States

This study examines longer-run impacts of the Seattle, Washington, Sweetened Beverage Tax (SBT) on beverage prices, volume sold, and cross-border shopping. We use a difference-in-differences estimation approach, drawing on universal product code-level store scanner data on taxed and untaxed beverages one-year pre-tax and two-year post-tax with Portland, Oregon, as the comparison site. Two-year post-tax, prices of taxed beverages increased by 1.04 cents per ounce (59% tax pass-through rate). Volume sold of taxed beverages fell by 22%. Declines were larger for family-size (29%) compared to individual-size (10%) beverages; particularly for soda (36% decrease for family-size compared to no change for individual-size). We found no change in volume sold of taxed beverages in Seattle’s 2-mile border area, suggesting no cross-border shopping. Overall, we found a sustained impact of the Seattle SBT two-year post-tax implementation suggesting that sugar-sweetened beverage taxes may yield permanent reductions in demand for sugary beverages and associated health harms.
Cell-morphodynamic phenotype classification with application to cancer metastasis using cell magnetorotation and machine-learning

We define cell morphodynamics as the cell's time dependent morphology. It could be called the cell's shape shifting ability. To measure it we use a biomarker free, dynamic histology method, which is based on multiplexed Cell Magneto-Rotation and Machine Learning. We note that standard studies looking at cells immobilized on microscope slides cannot reveal their shape shifting, no more than pinned butterfly collections can reveal their flight patterns. Using cell magnetorotation, with the aid of cell embedded magnetic nanoparticles, our method allows each cell to move freely in 3 dimensions, with a rapid following of cell deformations in all 3-dimensions, so as to identify and classify a cell by its dynamic morphology. Using object recognition and machine learning algorithms, we continuously measure the real-time shape dynamics of each cell, where from we successfully resolve the inherent broad heterogeneity of the morphological phenotypes found in a given cancer cell population. In three illustrative experiments we have achieved clustering, differentiation, and identification of cells from (A) two distinct cell lines, (B) cells having gone through the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and (C) cells differing only by their motility. This microfluidic method may enable a fast screening and identification of invasive cells, e.g., metastatic cancer cells, even in the absence of biomarkers, thus providing a rapid diagnostics and assessment protocol for effective personalized cancer therapy.
A Comparative Analysis of the Vibrational and Structural Properties of Nearly Incommensurate Overlayer Systems

Abstract Using molecular dynamics simulations based on embedded atom method potentials, we have investigated the vibrational properties of the following three systems of nearly hexagonal noble metal monolayers adsorbed on substrates of square symmetry: Ag on Cu(001), Ag on Ni(001) and Au on Ni(001). The corresponding local phonon density of states, mean square amplitudes, and substrate interlayer relaxation of the above systems are compared to identify similarities and differences. A key finding is that the Ag monolayers have a stronger influence on both phonon spectra and vibrational amplitudes of the topmost layer of the Cu(001) surface than that of the nickel substrates. Furthermore, the vibrational amplitudes of the overlayer atoms are shown to be anisotropic and dominant along the incommensurate direction for the three systems. Temperature effects on the vibrational and structural properties are also discussed.
A Review of “Building a Market: The Rise of the Home Improvement Industry, 1914–1960”

Home ownership is inextricably tied to home improvement. As Richard Harris, professor of geography at McMaster University, makes clear in Building a Market: The Rise of the Home Improvement Industr...
SPACE HIERARCHY RESULTS FOR RANDOMIZED MODELS

We prove space hierarchy and separation results for randomized and other semantic models of computation with advice. Previous works on hierarchy and separation theorems for such models focused on time as the resource. We obtain tighter results with space as the resource. Our main theorems are the following. Let $s(n)$ be any space-constructible function that is $Omega(log n)$ and such that $s(a n) = O(s(n))$ for all constants $a$, and let $s'(n)$ be any function that is $omega(s(n))$. - There exists a language computable by two-sided error randomized machines using $s'(n)$ space and one bit of advice that is not computable by two-sided error randomized machines using $s(n)$ space and $min(s(n),n)$ bits of advice. - There exists a language computable by zero-sided error randomized machines in space $s'(n)$ with one bit of advice that is not computable by one-sided error randomized machines using $s(n)$ space and $min(s(n),n)$ bits of advice. The condition that $s(a n)=O(s(n))$ is a technical condition satisfied by typical space bounds that are at most linear. We also obtain weaker results that apply to generic semantic models of computation.
Nuclear power and oil imports

Abstract There are still a great many arguments over the net energy benefits — if any — of replacing fossil fuel power stations with nuclear. Here the authors have used a simple model in an attempt to calculate the net energy costs of a number of possible strategies. They include that nuclear power can be effective in saving fossil fuels but that the saving is critically dependant both on the rate of reactor construction and the amount of energy needed to construct each reactor. For any given energy construction input there is an optimum rate of construction; programmes faster or slower than the optimum will result in less net energy output.
The Effects of Parental Undocumented Status on the Developmental Contexts of Young Children in Immigrant Families

Abstract— There were roughly 4 million children of undocumented parents in the United States in 2008. This article describes the effects that parental undocumented status can have on developmental contexts experienced in early childhood, before formal school entry. It focuses on early childhood as a crucial but still overlooked period for the study of children in immigrant families, a developmental stage when foundational cognitive and social skills are developing and in which social and economic disadvantage has particularly potent effects. Moreover, 91% of children under 6 with at least 1 undocumented parent are themselves U.S. citizens, which highlights the role of parental documentation status in affecting contexts of development that children may have access to but cannot select themselves. This article focuses on 3 sets of developmental contexts that may be sensitive to documentation status of parents: immediate postmigration contexts, in areas of legal, local enforcement policy, and neighborhood characteristics; everyday social settings, including program use, housing quality, and work conditions; and family processes.
Assessing the Internship Program in Universities: Case study of United States International University (USIU)

Employers are increasingly supporting programs that equip students with hands-on business skills in an effort to address a gap between theory and practice. This in essence increases the student’s degree of employability after graduating from university. To address this mismatch, companies and universities have initiated the internship program or attachments where final year students pursuing various professions are given an opportunity to work in an effort to gain some experience and beef up other academic credentials that they may not have acquired in their course of study. Key words : Internship, assessment, university, USIU.
Silencer!: a tool for substrate noise coupling analysis

Silencer! is a new, fully automated, substrate noise coupling analysis tool that is integrated into the CADENCE DFII design environment. This tool seamlessly enables substrate noise coupling analysis in a standard mixed-signal design flow. IC designers can analyze substrate noise coupling at different levels of hierarchy - from the schematic level to the layout. Examples have been simulated and the results are accurate to within 10% of measured fabricated chips.
Philips versus Matsushita: Competing Strategic and Organizational Choices

Traces the evolving competition between two major multinationals over 40 years. Different strategic postures are reflected - and embedded - in different organizational postures. In 2009 the CEOs of both companies face new global strategic and organizational choices.
Central journals and authors in communication using a publication network

The current study used citation data and relied on network analysis to determine centrality scores for 24 communication journals and the authors of their publications during the years 2007---2011. Scores were used to rank journals and authors across the discipline. The results of centrality rankings reveal that Journal of Communication, Communication Research, Communication Research Reports, Human Communication Research, and Communication Studies are the central most journals in the citation network. Across these 24 journals, the top 1 % of central most scholars are presented in rank based on the placement of their publications. An additional list ranks the 14 central most (1 %) of scholars who published in the five central most journals. These centrality rankings for the journals and authors are discussed in comparison to previous ranking methods. The results for the central most journals mirror the findings of other network analysis research relying on various citation data. However, the findings for author centrality rankings revealed that traditional methods (e.g., summing total publications) for ranking communication scholars yield drastically different results when compared to centrality rankings (incorporating breadth of publications across journals). Future attempts to situate prolific authors should consider the conceptual utility of relying on network analysis methods to analyze citation data. The limitations of this study are also discussed.
Protective effects of thymosin β4 on carbon tetrachloride-induced acute hepatotoxicity in rats

Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) plays a role in fibrosis, inflammation, and in the reparative process of injured cells and tissues. Here, we discuss our preliminary work on the protective effect of Tβ4 on carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4) )-induced acute hepatotoxicity. Our studies thus far indicate that Tβ4 can prevent necrosis, inflammatory infiltration, and upregulation of α1(and 2) collagen, α-SMA, PDGF-β receptor, and fibronectin mRNA expression; in addition, Tβ4 can prevent downregulation of PPARγ and upregulation of MECP2 mRNA levels in acute liver injury. Our initial work therefore indicates that Tβ4 can prevent the alteration of markers of hepatic stellate cell transdifferentiation, which suggests that Tβ4 could maintain the quiescent phenotypic state of hepatic stellate cells in the rat livers by restoring PPARγ and downregulating MeCP2 expression levels. More specifically, these preliminary studies suggest that Tβ4 might be an effective anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic drug for the treatment of liver fibrogenesis.
Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Common and Devastating Disease in Need of Better Treatment

Objective To review the poor natural history of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), current treatment options for ICH, discuss ongoing trials evaluating minimally invasive techniques for clot evacuation, and offer future directions of investigation for the management of this devastating disease. Methods A selective review of recent trials regarding treatment of ICH was performed. Results Completed trials of medical and surgical management are reviewed. The supportive research for clot evacuation to limit secondary injury is surveyed. We also provide a comprehensive discussion of current data evaluating minimally invasive techniques to achieve clot removal, including Minimally Invasive Surgery plus tPA for ICH Evacuation (MISTIE), Clot Lysis: Evaluating Accelerated Resolution (CLEAR), and endoscopic evacuation. Conclusion We encourage the neurosurgical community to pursue improved therapies for ICH. Practice New minimally invasive treatments for ICH are being developed. Implications Treatment of ICH is an important area of research and should continue to be aggressively pursued because of the significant societal burden and poor outcomes associated with ICH.
A novel technique for bedside anorectal manometry in humans.

Background Currently, anorectal manometry (ARM), which is used to diagnose defecatory disorders and identify anal weakness in fecal incontinence (FI) is generally conducted in specialized laboratories. Our aims were to compare anorectal functions measured with high-resolution manometry (HRM) and a novel portable manometry device. Methods Anal pressures at rest, during squeeze, and simulated evacuation, and rectal sensation were evaluated with portable and HRM in 20 healthy women, 19 women with constipation, and 11 with FI. The relationship between anal pressures measured with portable and HRM was assessed by the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), Bland Altman test, and paired t-tests. Key Results Anal pressures at rest (CCC 0.45; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.58) and during squeeze (CCC 0.60; 95% CI: 0.46, 0.72) measured with portable and HRM were correlated and inversely associated with the risk of FI. During simulated evacuation, the CCC for rectal pressure (0.62; 95% CI: 0.43, 0.76) was greater than that for anal pressure (CCC 0.22; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.39) and the rectoanal gradient (CCC 0.22; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.41). Rectal sensory thresholds for first sensation, the desire to defecate, and urgency measured by portable and HRM were also significantly correlated between techniques. For several parameters, differences between portable and HRM were statistically significant and the Bland Altman test was positive. Conclusions & Inferences Anorectal pressures and rectal sensation can be conveniently measured by portable manometry and are significantly correlated with high-resolution manometry.
Anabolic and catabolic bone effects of human parathyroid hormone (1-34) are predicted by duration of hormone exposure

Parathyroid hormone (PTH)(1-34), given once daily, increases bone mass in a variety of animal models and humans with osteoporosis. However, continuous PTH infusion has been shown to cause bone loss. To determine the pharmacokinetic profile of PTH(1-34) associated with anabolic and catabolic bone responses, PTH(1-34) pharmacokinetic and serum biochemical profiles were evaluated in young male rats using dosing regimens that resulted in either gain or loss of bone mass. Once-daily PTH(1-34) or 6 PTH(1-34) injections within 1 h, for a total daily dose of 80 microg/kg, induced equivalent increases in proximal tibia bone mass. In contrast, 6 PTH(1-34) injections/day over 6 h for a total dose of 80 microg/kg/day or 3 injections/day over 8 h for a total of 240 microg/kg/day decreased tibia bone mass. The PTH(1-34) pharmacokinetics of the different treatment regimens were distinctive. The magnitude of the maximum serum concentrations (Cmax) of PTH(1-34) and area under the curve (AUC) did not predict the catabolic bone outcome. Compared to the anabolic pharmacokinetic profile of a transient increase in PTH(1-34) with rapid decreases in serum calcium and phosphate, the catabolic regimen was associated with PTH(1-34) concentrations remaining above baseline values during the entire 6-h dosing period with a trend toward an increase in serum calcium and a prolonged decrease in phosphate. The pharmacokinetic profiles suggest that the anabolic or catabolic response of bone to PTH(1-34) is determined primarily by the length of time each day that serum concentrations of PTH(1-34) remain above baseline levels of endogenous PTH and only secondarily by the Cmax or AUC of PTH(1-34) achieved.
Location of Pyridine Guest Molecules in an Electroneutral {3∞}[SiO4/2] Host Framework: Single-Crystal Structures of the As-Synthesized and Calcined Forms of High-Silica Ferrierite

Single crystals (up to 580 × 480 × 20 μm) of highly silicious ferrierite (Si-FER, 1), suitable for single-crystal X-ray investigations, are synthesized under organothermal conditions. The structures of the as-synthesized (1a) and the calcined (1b) Si-FER are determined at room temperature. Both structures are refined in the orthorhombic space group Pnnm (No. 58, standard setting) with a = 743.0(1) pm, b = 1409.2(2) pm, c = 1882.0(2) pm, V = 1970.5(4) × 106 pm3, Z = 1, R = 0.041 (1a) and a = 741.8(1) pm, b = 1407.0(2) pm, c = 1871.3(2) pm, V = 1953.1(4) × 106 pm3, Z = 1, R = 0.037 (1b). The structure solution when combined with chemical analysis and 1H and 13C MAS NMR gives a unit cell content of [Si36O72]{py(4-x) apx} (x = 0−1, py = pyridine, ap = 1-amino-n-propane) and [Si36O72] for 1a and 1b, respectively. The structure of 1a shows only weak host−guest interactions between the {3∞}[SiO4/2] framework and the occluded, orientationally disordered pyridine molecules by means of relatively long organic-to-fr...
Effect of preload on running accuracy of spindle

Abstract The rotational performance of a machine tool spindle has a direct influence upon both the surface finish and geometric shape of the finished workpiece. The variation of preload affects the stiffness of the spindle and the temperature of the bearing, which are also important factors in spindle motion. Although the large preload and stiffness will probably increase the stability of the spindle, the high temperature of the bearing will decrease the processing accuracy and damage the bearing. Contrarily, if the preload is not large enough, the error in the running spindle will increase, which represents lower precision. Therefore, the preload cannot be too large or too small, resulting in the compromising of these factors. In this study, the effect of the preload on the roundness accuracy has been examined at the different cutting conditions through the developments of measurement system of preload, temperature and roundness accuracy. The step-by-step data analysis procedure has also been developed to get the spindle radial error motions from the measured data. Through measurements of spindle running accuracy, the optimal preload was determined at the different cutting conditions.
Psychometric Properties of the Food Thought Suppression Inventory in Men

The Food Thought Suppression Inventory (FTSI) recently was validated with an undergraduate female sample. The measure proved to be a highly reliable and valid one-factor measure of food thought suppression. The current study examined the psychometric properties of the FTSI within 289 men. Results suggest that removing one item resulted in a reliable and valid one-factor measure of food thought suppression for men. Similar to the published results with women, the FTSI was related to pathological eating behaviors (e.g. binge eating, compensatory behaviors), and heavier individuals endorsed higher levels of food thought suppression.
18O/16O ratios in ash-flow tuffs and lavas erupted from the central Nevada caldera complex and the central San Juan caldera complex, Colorado

Oxygen isotope compositions were measured on 129 quartz, feldspar, and biotite phenocrysts from ash-flow tuffs and lava domes erupted from the Oligocene central Nevada and central San Juan caldera complexes. Most of the ash-flow tuffs are compositionally zoned with low-phenocryst rhyolite bases and high-phenocryst quartz-latite tops, but both within individual units and throughout each of the eruptive sequences at each locality, the δ18O values are remarkably constant. δ18O values of the central Nevada magmas range from +9.1 to +9.8 per mil: These values are high and indicate the involvement of high-18O geosynclinal sediments in the melting process. Magmatic δ18O values decrease by only about 0.4 per mil from the initial eruption sequence to the middle eruptive, the giant Monotony Tuff (3000 km3). The initial higher δ18O values are reestablished in the late eruptive sequence, but decrease again by about 0.4 per mil in the latest ring-fracture eruptions. δ18O values in the central San Juan magmas range from +6.8 to +7.5: These values are relatively low and indicate involvement of lower cratonal crust and upper mantle in the melting process. Magmatic δ18O values decrease by about 0.4 per mil from the early sequence (Fish Canyon, Carpenter Ridge, and Mammoth Mountain Tuffs) to the late sequence (Wason Park, Nelson Mountain, and Snowshoe Mountain Tuffs). 18O/16O fractionations among phenocrysts in both Nevada and Colorado are much smaller than among corresponding minerals in plutonic granitic rocks. These fractionations also decrease from stratigraphically lower to higher samples in each cooling unit, so the 18O/16O data agree with other evidence that these represent quenched equilibrium at magmatic temperatures, and that prior to eruption the tops of the magma chambers were cooler than the deeper portions. In striking contrast to what is observed in Iceland and in the late-Tertiary to Quaternary southwest Nevada and Yellowstone caldera complexes, we have found no evidence for any low-18O rhyolitic magmas. Thus, low-18O rhyolitic magmas must be less common than heretofor believed, and their origin must be a result of special circumstances involving the timing, depth, and intensity of meteoric-hydrothermal activity. We tentatively suggest that extensional tectonics and regional rifting may be one of the prerequisites for their development.
Catabolism of the Murine IgGl Molecule: Evidence that Both CH2-CH3 Domain Interfaces are Required for Persistence of IgGl in the Circulation of Mice

Site-directed mutagenesis of a recombinant Fc-hinge fragment has previously been used to identify a region of the murine IgG1 molecule that controls catabolism, and this site encompasses amino acid residues at the interface of the CH2 and CH3 domains. In the current study the nature of this 'catabolic site' has been further analysed using recombinant techniques. Fc-hinge, CH2-hinge, CH2 and CH3 fragments have been expressed in Escherichia coli, purified and analysed in pharmacokinetic studies in mice. The CH2-hinge has been analysed as both a monomer and dimer, and the dimer has a longer beta phase half-life (61.6 h) than the monomer (29.1 h). This suggests that two catabolic sites per Fc fragment are required for serum persistence. The need for two functional sites per molecule has been confirmed by the analysis of a hybrid Fc-hinge fragment comprising a heterodimer of one Fc-hinge with the wild type (WT) IgG1 sequence and a mutant Fc-hinge with a defective catabolic site (mutated at His310, Gln311, His433 and Asn434). This hybrid is cleared with a beta phase half-life of 37.9 h and this is significantly shorter than that of the WT Fc-hinge fragment (82.9 h). In contrast to the CH2-hinge dimer, the CH3 domain is cleared rapidly (beta phase half-life of 21.3 h) indicating that the region of this domain (His433 and Asn434) previously identified as being involved in the control of catabolism is not sufficient in the absence of the CH2 domain for the serum persistence of an IgG fragment. The data extend our earlier observations concerning a region of the murine IgG1 molecule that is involved in the control of catabolism and have implications for the design of engineered antibodies for therapy.
Regulation of L-type calcium channel by phospholemman in cardiac myocytes

Abstract We evaluated whether phospholemman (PLM) regulates L-type Ca2 + current (ICa) in mouse ventricular myocytes. Expression of α1-subunit of L-type Ca2 + channels between wild-type (WT) and PLM knockout (KO) hearts was similar. Compared to WT myocytes, peak ICa (at − 10 mV) from KO myocytes was ~ 41% larger, the inactivation time constant (τinact) of ICa was ~ 39% longer, but deactivation time constant (τdeact) was similar. In the presence of isoproterenol (1 μM), peak ICa was ~ 48% larger and τinact was ~ 144% higher in KO myocytes. With Ba2 + as the permeant ion, PLM enhanced voltage-dependent inactivation but had no effect on τdeact. To dissect the molecular determinants by which PLM regulated ICa, we expressed PLM mutants by adenovirus-mediated gene transfer in cultured KO myocytes. After 24 h in culture, KO myocytes expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) had significantly larger peak ICa and longer τinact than KO myocytes expressing WT PLM; thereby independently confirming the observations in freshly isolated myocytes. Compared to KO myocytes expressing GFP, KO myocytes expressing the cytoplasmic domain truncation mutant (TM43), the non-phosphorylatable S68A mutant, the phosphomimetic S68E mutant, and the signature PFXYD to alanine (ALL5) mutant all resulted in lower peak ICa. Expressing PLM mutants did not alter expression of α1-subunit of L-type Ca2 + channels in cultured KO myocytes. Our results suggested that both the extracellular PFXYD motif and the transmembrane domain of PLM but not the cytoplasmic tail were necessary for regulation of peak ICa amplitude. We conclude that PLM limits Ca2 + influx in cardiac myocytes by reducing maximal ICa and accelerating voltage-dependent inactivation.
Telescope alignment from sparsely sampled wavefront measurements over pupil subapertures

We present a simple formalism that has proven useful in on-axis alignment of two-element telescopes when wavefront information is available from only a limited region (here two noncontiguous subapertures) of the pupil. Misalignments cause predictable full-aperture aberrations, which in turn cause predictable tip/tilt modes in the subapertures. For the most useful case in which secondary mirror tilts are independently constrained by optical monitoring, the four subaperture tip/tilt modes provide enough information to solve for the state of misalignment uniquely. A practically important and intuitively appealing simplification of this inversion occurs if the tip/tilts of the two subapertures are first transformed into a new basis consisting of differential and common-mode tilts in each of the x and y directions. Then the matrices interpreting subaperture modes as full-aperture aberrations and those in turn as mechanical misalignments become diagonal, so the mechanical adjustment required to align each degree of freedom is just a constant sensitivity multiplying one of the measured differential or common-mode tilt basis modes. Knowing that this simplification occurs allows rapid empirical calibration of sensitivities in the lab and then deterministic alignment, simply and transparently, with no need for ray tracing to model the optical effects of the adjustments at each step of the alignment.
Anima II: a 3-D color animation system

An animation software system has been developed at The Computer Graphics Research Group which allows a person with no computer background to develop an animation idea into a finished color video product which may be seen and recorded in real time. The animation may include complex polyhedra forming words, sentences, plants, animals and other creatures. The animation system, called Anima II, has as its three basic parts: a data generation routine used to make colored, three-dimensional objects, an animation language with a simple script-like syntax used to describe parallel motion and display transformations in a flexible, scheduled environment, the Myers algorithm used in the visible surface and raster scan calculations for the color display. This paper discusses the requirements, the problems, and the trade-offs of such a system. An overview of research in the area is given as well as the design and implementation highlights of the Anima II system.
Immunolocalization and Regulation of the Chemokine RANTES in Human Endometrial and Endometriosis Tissues and Cells

Retrograde menstruation is postulated as the initiating event in the histogenesis of endometriosis; however, subsequent steps in the pathogenesis of this common disorder remain poorly characterized. The ip accumulation of activated leukocytes and the infiltration of endometriosis lesions by macrophages and T cells are cytological markers of the inflammatory nature of this syndrome. The apparent recruitment of these leukocytes prompted us to search for chemokine expression by endometriosis cells. We reported previously that pelvic fluid RANTES (regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted) concentrations correlated with the stage of endometriosis. In the current study, RANTES messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) was identified in normal endometrium and endometriosis lesions, and techniques were developed to localize RANTES protein within these tissues. Using isolated endometrial and endometriosis cell cultures, we demonstrated that RANTES mRNA and protein can be induced by the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma in endometrial stromal, but not in epithelial or adenocarcinoma cells. Immunocytochemical studies confirmed the biochemical findings. Metabolic labeling experiments verified that nascent RANTES secreted by cytokine-stimulated endometriosis stromal cells was the mature, 8-kDa protein predicted by the mRNA encoding this chemokine. The results indicate that RANTES is a normal constituent of the eutopic endometrium. We propose that secretion of RANTES by ectopic endometriosis implants provides a mechanism for peritoneal leukocyte recruitment.
Coaggregation of RNA-Binding Proteins in a Model of TDP-43 Proteinopathy with Selective RGG Motif Methylation and a Role for RRM1 Ubiquitination

TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) is a major component within ubiquitin-positive inclusions of a number of neurodegenerative diseases that increasingly are considered as TDP-43 proteinopathies. Identities of other inclusion proteins associated with TDP-43 aggregation remain poorly defined. In this study, we identify and quantitate 35 co-aggregating proteins in the detergent-resistant fraction of HEK-293 cells in which TDP-43 or a particularly aggregate prone variant, TDP-S6, were enriched following overexpression, using stable isotope-labeled (SILAC) internal standards and liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). We also searched for differential post-translational modification (PTM) sites of ubiquitination. Four sites of ubiquitin conjugation to TDP-43 or TDP-S6 were confirmed by dialkylated GST-TDP-43 external reference peptides, occurring on or near RNA binding motif (RRM) 1. RRM-containing proteins co-enriched in cytoplasmic granular structures in HEK-293 cells and primary motor neurons with insoluble TDP-S6, including cytoplasmic stress granule associated proteins G3BP, PABPC1, and eIF4A1. Proteomic evidence for TDP-43 co-aggregation with paraspeckle markers RBM14, PSF and NonO was also validated by western blot and by immunocytochemistry in HEK-293 cells. An increase in peptides from methylated arginine-glycine-glycine (RGG) RNA-binding motifs of FUS/TLS and hnRNPs was found in the detergent-insoluble fraction of TDP-overexpressing cells. Finally, TDP-43 and TDP-S6 detergent-insoluble species were reduced by mutagenesis of the identified ubiquitination sites, even following oxidative or proteolytic stress. Together, these findings define some of the aggregation partners of TDP-43, and suggest that TDP-43 ubiquitination influences TDP-43 oligomerization.
Translational initiation regulated by ATM in dendritic cells development

Ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) protein has been implicated in multiple pathways such as DNA repair, cell cycle checkpoint, cell growth, development, and stem cell renewal. In this study, we demonstrate evidence that ATM is involved in granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-induced dendritic cell (DC) development from bone marrow (BM) cells. Inactivation of ATM protein results in decreased BM proliferation, leading to reduced DC development and their activity for T cell activation. Expression of Jak2, STAT5, and mTOR is suppressed in both wild-type and ATM-null BM prior to GM-CSF stimulation. Activation of those proteins is delayed and prolonged hypophosphorylation of 4EBP1 is observed in ATM-null BM when treated with GM-CSF, although Erk and p38 are similarly expressed and activated in both wild-type and ATM-null BM cell types. Akt is also suppressed in wild-type BM, and transduction of constitutively active Akt or STAT5 in ATM-null BM restores DC development. Together, these results illustrate that ATM deficiency causes impaired initiation of protein translation in BM, leading to immature development of DC.
New thallium iodates—Synthesis, characterization, and calculations of Tl(IO3)3 and Tl4(IO3)6, [Tl+3Tl3+(IO3)6]

Two new thallium iodates have been synthesized, Tl(IO{sub 3}){sub 3} and Tl{sub 4}(IO{sub 3}){sub 6} [Tl{sup +}{sub 3}Tl{sup 3+}(IO{sub 3}){sub 6}], and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Both materials were synthesized as phase-pure compounds through hydrothermal techniques using Tl{sub 2}CO{sub 3} and HIO{sub 3} as reagents. The materials crystallize in space groups R-3 (Tl(IO{sub 3}){sub 3}) and P-1 (Tl{sub 4}(IO{sub 3}){sub 6}). Although lone-pairs are observed for both I{sup 5+} and Tl{sup +}, electronic structure calculations indicate the lone-pair on I{sup 5+} is stereo-active, whereas the lone-pair on Tl{sup +} is inert. - Graphical abstract: Visualization of the stereo-active lone-pair (purple) through ELFs for Tl{sub 4}(IO{sub 3}){sub 6}. The spherical nature of the ELFs around the Tl{sup +} cation indicates the lone-pair is inert.
Assessing the case against the SUV

Abstract The sport utility vehicle (SUV) has come under increasing criticism for offences ranging from exacerbating environmental degradation and funding terrorism to fuelling competitive consumption and being a vehicle that Jesus would not drive. Do the charges of made against such vehicles by a burgeoning anti-SUV movement stick, or is the consumer choice of modes of personal transport benign? Is the decision to manufacture, purchase or operate an SUV (as opposed to a conventional passenger car) a legitimate public interest, or does it belong properly within a protected sphere of individual liberty? This article attempts to evaluate the case that is made specifically against the SUV, attempting to isolate any unique offences for which its guilt is alleged, and to examine those charges philosophically (along with a case for rejecting them).
Spontaneous mutation frequencies and spectra in p53 (+/+) and p53 (-/-) mice : A test of the 'guardian of the genome' hypothesis in the Big Blue® transgenic mouse mutation detection system

Abstract TSG-p53/Big Blue ® double transgenic mice offer a powerful tool for examining the effect of a p53 germline mutation on spontaneous somatic mutation in vivo. After sequencing the DNA-binding domain of the lacI gene, we previously reported no differences in mutant frequency between p53 nullizygous (−/−) and p53 wild-type (+/+) mice in liver, spleen and brain. However, jackpot mutations elsewhere in the gene may have obscured a real difference in mutation frequency and the small sample size of mutations not at CpG dinucleotides ( n =23) may have been insufficient to reveal differences in mutation spectra. Herein we have sequenced the entire lacI gene, including the promoter and lacZ operator regions. 123 additional independent mutations have been found including 70 mutations not at CpG sites. The mutation frequency was determined by correcting for jackpot mutations. There were no statistically significant differences in mutation frequency or spectrum between the p53 (+/+) and p53 (−/−) genotypes in any of the three tissues.
Production of aluminum clusters by direct laser vaporization of aluminum nitride

Abstract We report the production of aluminum clusters (Al + x , x up to 62 Al − x , x up to 42) in a FTMS by direct laser vaporization of aluminum nitride. This is the first observation of pure metal clusters from a metal compound. A pressure burst composed of N and/or N 2 accompanies cluster formation and presumably helps stabilize the nascent clusters. The cluster intensity distributions are similar to those obtained using aluminum targets. The thermalized cation clusters do not react with O 2 unless they are kinetically excited. Deviations in the branching ratios from earlier beam investigations may result from pressure/timescale differences in the two experiments.
Animal models for the effect of age on susceptibility to inhaled particulate matter.

Epidemiological findings of associations between ambient particulate matter (PM) and respiratory and cardiovascular mortality and morbidity have fostered increased laboratory research aimed at unde...
Market Research Reports: An Overlooked Resource for Agribusiness Libraries

In today's competitive agribusiness climate, agribusiness professionals, and students perform research to develop new products for the marketplace. While traditional search tools such as AGRICOLA and CAB Abstracts are important for research, the content in those databases is mostly scientific in nature. Market research reports are an excellent resource for understanding the marketplace and for aiding researchers in new product development. This article defines and explains the purpose of market research and, by using a case study of an agribusiness course at a research university, compares the content from four market research products.
Mutation rate variation in multicellular eukaryotes: causes and consequences

A basic knowledge about mutation rates is central to our understanding of a myriad of evolutionary phenomena, including the maintenance of sex and rates of molecular evolution. Although there is substantial evidence that mutation rates vary among taxa, relatively little is known about the factors that underlie this variation at an empirical level, particularly in multicellular eukaryotes. Here we integrate several disparate lines of theoretical and empirical inquiry into a unified framework to guide future studies that are aimed at understanding why and how mutation rates evolve in multicellular species.
Respiratory studies with mitochondria from the rat tapeworm Hymenolepis dimwuta

Abstract 1. 1. A technique is described for isolating mitochondria from the rat tapeworm, H. diminuta, that show coupled respiration with α-glycerophosphate, succinate, pyruvate plus malate, glutamate plus malate, and α-ketoglutarate plus malate as substrates. 2. 2. The ADP/O ratio in the presence of succinate, or pyruvate plus malate, is between 0.6 and 1.7, which is due to the unusually high Km for ADP of 267 μM. The addition of cytochrome c at 5 μg. per mg. protein increases State IV and State III respiration rates, and increases the ADP/O ratio. 3. 3. The metabolic inhibitors atractyloside and oligomycin completely prevent the stimulation of State IV respiration by ADP, while antimycin, cyanide, and rotenone decrease State IV respiration from 58 to 100 per cent. 4. 4. Low levels of Ca2+, between 0.07 and 0.30 mM, produce a reversible stimulation of respiration with sucdnate or pyruvate plus malate, which is prevented by addition of 14 μM La3+.
Compartmentalization Among Modernizing Indian Peasants

This study was designed to test empirically the claims and validity of several competing theories of modernization and "modern men." The study addressed itself to the following questions: (1) Are modern men necessarily more scientific-rational in their outlook and life style? (2) Do they show more readiness to accept changes in tangible aspects of their life than in their beliefs and values? (3) Are changes reflected in their material living only indicative of leverage the opinion leaders enjoy over their followers? (4) Does modernization result in some sort of differentiation of spheres of activity or compartmentalization whereby changes are accepted in tangible forms of human activity whereas inner attitudes, values and beliefs remain immune to change? The study was done in eight Indian villages located in Uttar Pradesh near Lucknow, the state capital. All heads of household who were engaged in agriculture were interviewed, yielding 606 cases. The study found that as far as agricultural operations are c...
Theoretical study on the low‐lying electronic states of NiH and NiAt

The low-lying electronic states of NiH and NiAt are investigated by using multireference second-order perturbation theory with relativistic effects taken into account. The potential energy curves as well as the corresponding spectroscopic constants are reported. The results are grossly in good agreement with the available experimental data and should thus be very useful for guiding future experimental measurements. A cross comparison with other nickel monohalides NiX (X = F, Cl, Br, and I) reveals that the change in the spin-orbit splittings when going from lighter to heavier ligands results more from the state interaction than from the relativistic effects of the ligands.
On the Nonlinear Plasma Waves in the High-Frequency Wave Heating of the Ionosphere

In the O-mode high-frequency (HF) heating of the ionosphere, parametric instabilities were excited to generate plasma waves. Among those, Langmuir waves and ion acoustic waves were evidenced by the HF enhanced plasma lines and HF enhanced ion lines in the recorded spectra of the ultra high frequency (UHF)/very high frequency (VHF) backscatter radars. These waves can grow to large amplitudes and become nonlinear waves. The nonlinear Schrodinger equation and Korteweg-de Vries equation governing the nonlinear evolution of Langmuir waves and ion acoustic waves are derived and solved. It is shown that the solutions of these equations can be either periodic or solitary depending on the physical conditions. The analyses show the conditions of generating Langmuir soliton and ion acoustic soliton.
Covalent adduction of nucleophilic amino acids by 4-hydroxynonenal and 4-oxononenal

Peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids yields the lipid aldehydes 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) and 4-oxononenal (4ONE). Adduction of proteins by 4HNE is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases. At the present time, the reactivity of 4ONE toward proteins is unknown. The purpose of this study was to identify amino acids that react with 4HNE and 4ONE, characterize the chemical structure of the adduct, and determine the preference for amino acid modification. Model peptides containing one or more nucleophilic residues (i.e. Arg, Cys, His, Met and Lys) were reacted with 4HNE and 4ONE at pH 7.4, 37 degrees C and analyzed using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Post-source decay (PSD) analysis was used to confirm peptide modification. The bimolecular rate constant for adduction of amino acids and peptides by 4HNE and 4ONE was measured. Results of this work indicate that Cys, His and Lys are modified by 4HNE. In contrast, 4ONE was found to react with Arg, Cys, His and Lys. The predominant adduct resulting from modification of peptides by 4HNE or 4ONE had a mass of 156 or 154 Da (respectively), indicating that both lipid aldehydes react primarily via Michael addition with peptide nucleophiles to yield a covalent adduct. Reactivity of amino acids toward 4HNE was found to have the following order of potency: Cys>>His>Lys. Preference for the reaction of amino acid nucleophiles with 4ONE was determined to have the following order: Cys>>His>Lys>Arg. The presence of an Arg on a Cys-containing peptide increased the reaction rate with 4HNE and 4ONE by a factor of approximately 5-6 compared to the Cys nucleophile alone. Rate constants for the modification of Cys by 4HNE and 4ONE were determined to be 1.21 and 186 M(-1) s(-1) (respectively), indicating a >150-fold difference in reactivity between the lipid aldehydes toward Cys. Spontaneous conjugation of glutathione (GSH) with the lipid aldehydes was found to occur with rate constants of 1.33 and 145 M(-1) s(-1) for 4HNE and 4ONE (respectively), demonstrating a 110-fold difference in the rate of GSH modification between the two compounds. Results of the present study indicate that both 4HNE and 4ONE react with amino acid nucleophiles via Michael addition with the following order of potency: Cys>>His>Lys. However, the reactivity of these lipid aldehydes toward amino acid nucleophiles differs qualitatively with Arg being a target for 4ONE but not 4HNE and quantitatively by a remarkable >100-fold difference in the rate of Cys modification between 4HNE and 4ONE.
Self-concept, sexual knowledge and attitudes, and parental support in the sexual adjustment of women with early- and late-onset physical disability.

Three groups of college women were compared on the following dimensions: sexual experiences, sexual satisfaction, self-concept, sexual attitudes and knowledge, and parental support for sexual development. Groups were composed of women with late-onset physical disability, early-onset physical disability, and no disability. Measures utilized included an extension of the Sexual Interaction Inventory, the Tennessee Self-Concept Inventory, the Sexual Knowledge and Attitude Test, and questionnaires developed for this study. The early-onset group reported fewer current sexual experiences than did the nondisabled group. The early-onset group was dissatisfied with the frequency of sexual behavior to a greater degree than the nondisabled group. Also, both disabled groups believed that they could enjoy sexual experiences more than they did at present in contrast to the nondisabled group. There were no group differences for self-concept, though several aspects of self-concept contributed significantly to sexual adjustment for the disabled groups. No group differences were found for sexual knowledge and attitudes or parental support for sexual development, nor did these variables relate to sexual adjustment. Group differences in sexual adjustment are discussed in terms of functional, emotional, and social implications. Recommendations for further research include following the social development of women with lateonset conditions, comparing the social skills and cognitions of the two disabled groups, and assessing men who have established intimate relationships with disabled women.
The force driven harmonic oscillator model accurately predicts the preferred stride frequency for backward walking

Abstract It has been established that when gait speed is freely selected, there is a strong natural tendency for a stride rate and length combination to be utilized that results in minimized metabolic cost. A possible mechanism for this self-optimizing behavior is that a biomechanically optimal movement pattern is adopted, which should reduce or minimize metabolic cost. When the legs are modeled as pendular force driven harmonic oscillators (FDHO) the stride frequency during freely selected gait is predictable as the pendulum's resonant frequency — the state in which force inputs to maintain oscillations are minimal. Thus, resonance has been proposed as a mechanism responsible for gait optimization. To further examine the durability of this mechanism, the FDHO model was applied to predict stride rates during both free forward and backward walking for two separate test sessions. Stride measures were stable across sessions. Forward walking resulted in 25% greater stride lengths than backward, however, stride rates were statistically equal. Also, the FDHO model successfully predicted the preferred stride rate for both backward and forward walking. The resulting invariance of the stride frequency and adjustment of stride length were interpreted as offering additional support for the resonance mechanism.
Derivation of the near-tip stress and displacement fields for a moving crack without using complex functions

Abstract This note presents a mathematically simple approach to deriving the equations for the mixed-mode stress and displacement fields near the tip of a moving crack. Coordinate transformations allow the results to be derived without the use of complex functions.