cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ion Association Assisted Lithium Ion "Claw"

N-Methoxycarbonyl-1H-azepine-2,7-dicarboxaldehyde (I) was synthesized via the SeO(2)-mediated oxidation of N-methoxycarbonyl-2,7-dimethyl-1H-azepine. The reductions of I in tetrahydrofuran with (6)Li or (7)Li resulted in anion radicals, which are tightly associated with the lithium cations. EPR and ab initio calculations both show a nonequivalency in all of the protons in I(-*),Li(+) due to the closer approach of the Li(+) to one of the carbonyls and a twist of the ester carbonyl group (slow rotation of the carbamate group) toward the Li(+). Further, as predicted by the MO calculations, I(-*),Li(+) appears to exist with the nitrogen puckered above the twisted ring system, and the lithium cation is asymmetrically complexed between the two electronegative aldehydic oxygen atoms and the carbamate carbonyl oxygen. It is also Coulombically attracted to the puckered and twisted ring system.
The influence of salinity on toxicity of cadmium and chromium to the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus.

This study reports the lethal concentrations of cadmium and chromium to juvenile blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus, in acute toxicity tests at three different salinities. This economically important crustacean ranges throughout estuaries from fresh water to marine salinities, and may be subject to heavy metal pollution in industrial areas.
A longitudinal study of fathers' involvement with young children: infancy to age 5 years

A 4-year study was conducted to determine the temporal dynamics of paternal caregiving and play and the effect of maternal employment on these dynamics. The families were studied when the children were infants and again when they were 5 years old. At both times, the fathers were more involved in social interaction than in caregiving. Caregiving was usually provided by the mother, but the child's social interaction was equal for the father and mother. Paternal involvement in caregiving increased over time, whereas social interaction did not. The evidence indicates that maternal employment played a significant role in determining paternal involvement with the child as an infant and as the child grew older. When the child was an infant, the fathers' caregiving was positively related to the mothers' employment. Four years later, the fathers' caregiving and social involvement were positively related to the mothers' employment, and the parents' relative time available for involvement was positively associated with the fathers' participation in child care. The results are discussed in terms of the demand-response capacity hypothesis (Coverman, 1985).
An external current representation of the quiet nightside geomagnetic field level changes.

The annual and semiannual behavior of the local midnight field for North America, is represented as an external current system display derived from a spherical harmonic analysis. There are two vortices of this current: one is clockwise, centered in the Southern Hemisphere in the June solstitial period; the other is counter-clockwise, centered in the Northern Hemisphere in the December solstitial period. The foci of approximately 19, 000 amperes are located near 8 degrees geomagnetic latitude. The seasonal change in orientation of the solar wind with respect to the Earth's geomagnetic dipole axis explains most of the current pattern appearance. The maximum amplitude of the field components reconstructed from the representation rises to about 5 to 6 gammas at the equatorial and polar latitudes and to about half that size at the middle latitudes.
The Mütter Museum: Education, Preservation, and Commemoration

The Mutter Museum of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia is typical of the medical museums that were once found in almost all medical schools. Contemporary visitors to this and other medical ...
Imaging amyloid β peptide oligomeric particles in solution

Abstract While all protein misfolding diseases are characterized by fibrous amyloid deposits, the favorable free energy and strongly cooperative nature of the self-assembly have complicated the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing their formation. As structural models for the amyloid fibrils approach atomic resolution, increasing evidence suggests that early folding intermediates, rather than the final structure, are more strongly associated with the loss of neuronal function. For that reason we now demonstrate the use of cryo-etch high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (cryo-HRSEM) for the direct observation of pathway intermediates in amyloid assembly. A congener of the Aβ peptide of Alzheimer’s disease, Aβ(13–21), samples a variety of time-dependent self-assembles in a manner similar to those seen for larger proteins. A morphological description of these intermediates is the first step towards their structural characterization and the definition of their role in both amyloid assembly and neurotoxicity.
HIGH AFFINITY INSERTION/DELETION LESION BINDING BY P53 : EVIDENCE FOR A ROLE OF THE P53 CENTRAL DOMAIN

Abstract In addition to binding DNA in a sequence-specific manner, p53 can interact with nucleic acids in a sequence-independent manner. p53 can bind short single-stranded DNA and double-stranded DNA containing nucleotide loops; these diverse associations may be critical for p53 signal transduction. In this study, we analyzed p53 binding to DNA fragments containing insertion/deletion mismatches (IDLs). p53 required an intact central domain and dimerization domain for high affinity complex formation with IDLs. In fact, the C terminus of p53 (amino acids 293–393) was functionally replaceable with a foreign dimerization domain in IDL binding assays. From saturation binding studies we determined that the K D of p53 binding to IDLs was 45 pm as compared with a K D of 31 pm for p53 binding to DNA fragments containing a consensus binding site. Consistent with these dissociation constants, p53-IDL complexes were dissociated with relatively low concentrations of competitor consensus site-containing DNA. Although p53 has a higher affinity for DNA with a consensus site as compared with IDLs, the relative number and availability of each form of DNA in a cell immediately after DNA damage may promote p53 interaction with DNA lesions. Understanding how the sequence-specific and nonspecific DNA binding activities of p53 are integrated will contribute to our knowledge of how signaling cascades are initiated after DNA damage.
The X-Ray Properties of 2MASS Red Active Galactic Nuclei

The Two Micron All Sky Survey is finding previously unidentified, luminous, red, active galactic nuclei (AGNs). This new sample has a space density similar to, or greater than, previously known AGNs, suggesting that a large fraction of the overall population has been missed. Chandra observations of a well-defined subset of these objects reveal that all are X-ray-faint, with the reddest sources being the faintest in X-rays. The X-ray hardness ratios cover a wide range, generally indicating NH ~ 1021-1023 cm-2, but the softest sources show no spectral evidence for intrinsic absorption. These characteristics suggest that a mix of absorbed, direct emission and unabsorbed, scattered, and/or extended emission contributes to the X-ray flux, although we cannot rule out the possibility that they are intrinsically X-ray-weak. This population of X-ray-faint, predominantly broad-line objects could provide the missing population of X-ray-absorbed AGNs required by current models of the cosmic X-ray background. The existence of AGNs that display both broad emission lines and absorbed X-rays has important implications for unification schemes and emphasizes the need for care in assigning classifications to individual AGNs.
Information quality and discretionary disclosure

Abstract Using the model of discretionary disclosure suggested in Verrecchia (1983), I show that an increase in the quality of private information received by a manager results in more disclosure on his part. I also discuss how this result influences a manager's choice over levels of quality.
The Role of the International Monetary Fund in Promoting Price Stability

Inflation is primarily a matter of national policy. And in a closed economy the International Monetary Fund would have no role to play. But, as we all know, national economies are linked to one another by their exchange rates and by the complex of international transactions in goods, services, transfers and financial claims which are carried on at those rates of exchange. Since national economies are bound together in this way, they must broadly keep abreast of each other in their price experience. Or rather they would have to do so were it not for such impediments to international competition as quotas, tariffs and exchange restrictions; and also were it not for the fact that exchange rates can themselves be altered to compensate for differential rates of inflation.
Bending elasticity of saturated and monounsaturated phospholipid membranes studied by the neutron spin echo technique

We have used neutron spin echo (NSE) spectroscopy to study the effect of bilayer thickness and monounsaturation (existence of a single double bond on one of the aliphatic chains) on the physical properties of unilamellar vesicles. The bending elasticity of saturated and monounsaturated phospholipid bilayers made of phospholipids with alkyl chain length ranging from 14 to 20 carbons was investigated. The bending elasticity κc of phosphatidylcholines (PCs) in the liquid crystalline (Lα) phase ranges from 0.38 × 10−19 J for 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine to 0.64 × 10−19 J for 1,2-dieicosenoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine. It was confirmed that, contrary to the strong effect on the main transition temperature, the monounsaturation has a limited influence on the bending elasticity of lipid bilayers. In addition, when the area modulus KA varies little with chain unsaturation or length, the elastic ratios (κc/KA)1/2 of saturated and monounsaturated phospholipid bilayers varies linearly with lipid hydrophobic thickness d which agrees well with the theory of ideal fluid membranes.
Alliance market orientation, new product development, and resource advantage theory

Purpose – This study aims to examine the role of market orientation as a relationship property. This property, labeled “alliance market orientation”, is at the inter‐firm level and is related to the new product development (NPD) activities of alliances. The main objectives of this article are: to define the alliance market orientation; to argue that it is a major factor in NPD alliance success; and to argue that the resource‐advantage (R‐A) theory of competition can provide a theoretical foundation for this concept and explain its contribution to alliances' NPD success.Design/methodology/approach – The paper is conceptual in approach.Findings – In their efforts to strengthen relationships, alliances may tend to focus so much time on the relationship factors that they miss market opportunities. As a spanning process, NPD should be informed by both external and internal activities. alliance market orientation assists alliances in guiding NPD activities from outside to inside and vice versa. As a dynamic and...
Sensitive and multiplexed detection of proteomic antigens via quantum dot aggregation

A rapid, single-step, solution-phase method for quantifying multiple proteomic biomarkers is described. Nanoscale quantum dot–antibody conjugates self-assemble into microscale aggregates in the presence of a specific antigen through antibody-antigen molecular recognition. These aggregates are easily discriminated from the individual components by flow cytometry. Quantum dot (QD) aggregates can be quantified and correlated to the antigen concentration. Two QD populations with distinct emission spectra are used for detecting two proteomics antigens in a single reaction volume. Multiplexed detection of vascular endothelial growth factor A and angiopoietin-2 is demonstrated at the physiologically relevant, picomolar concentration range. Nonmultiplexed detection of the antigens is also demonstrated, with a femtomolar sensitivity limit. This technique may be optimized for low-cost early detection and frequent screening of cancers and other diseases as well as detection of the biological response to therapy.
Inhibition by nitroso-chloramphenicol of the proton translocation in mitochondria

Abstract We have found recently that, unlike chloramphenicol (CAP), its nitroreduction derivative nitroso-chloramphenicol (NO-CAP) behaved as a potent inhibitor of the energy-conserving mechanism in mitochondria [Abou-Khalil et al. Biochem. Pharmac. 29, 2605 (1980)]. Concentrations of 75 and 250 μM NO-CAP were required to inhibit ATP formation with glutamate and succinate, respectively, whereas similar CAP concentrations were without effect. Testing several key reactions associated with the biosynthesis of ATP, inhibitory concentrations of NO-CAP were found to interfere as follows: (a) the transport of an NAD-linked substrate (e.g. glutamate) into mitochondria was only partially inhibited, whereas that of an FAD-linked substrate (e.g. succinate) was not inhibited but was rather slightly activated; (b) the transport of P i was only inhibited at about 50%; (c) mitochondrial ADP transport was not affected at all; (d) the ATPase activity, measured either by Pi release in the presence of an uncoupler or by H + ejection, was only slightly affected; and (e) under either phosphorylation or no phosphorylation conditions and in the absence of P i , NO-CAP was found to completely block mitochondrial H + extrusion resulting from the oxidation of either succinate or glutamate; however, under similar conditions the oxidation of the two substrates was not totally inhibited. The possibility of interference by NO-CAP with reactive mitochondrial thiols groups is discussed in the light of previous data and current experiments showing protection by P i against NO-CAP effects on respiration. Moreover, NO-CAP as compared to conventional inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation (e.g. rotenone, antimycin A, oligomycin, mersalyl and others) appeared to have a distinct mode of action on that process. The results demonstrate that the inhibitory effect of NO-CAP is primarily located at the respiratory chain level where the proton translocation activity is fully blocked.
Variation in groundwater salinity in a tidal salt marsh basin, North Inlet Estuary, South Carolina

Abstract Groundwater flow of freshwater from upland forests into salt marshes is influenced by hydrologic forces that operate over a wide range of temporal scales, including storm events, tidal fluctuations, seasonal variations in rainfall and evapotranspiration (ET). Groundwater salinity can be a useful first order indicator of the balance between these flow processes. A dipole-dipole electrical resistivity survey was conducted approximately monthly during 2005 to measure groundwater salinity across a portion of Crabhaul Creek, a tidal salt marsh basin at the boundary of the upland forest and the North Inlet marsh in South Carolina. The monthly electrical resistivity surveys were designed to provide a detailed, spatially continuous measurement of subsurface conductivity to a depth of 4 m in order to further investigate the seasonal variation in groundwater salinity. Resistivity models were corroborated by simultaneous measurements of salinity in nearby piezometers. The freshwater-brackish water interface was clearly imaged by the resistivity. Movement of this interface occurs on a timescale of months rather than a regular seasonal variation. The average salinity in the marsh basin is highest in late Summer (July–August) when ET is highest, and lowest during the Winter (November–December). The position of the brackish-freshwater interface changes, but is not well correlated to local rainfall or tidal cycles except under specific circumstances. A steady-state hydrological model correctly predicts the average position of the freshwater-brackish interface and suggests a linear relationship between the height of the water table and the location of the interface. These results suggest a complex relationship between precipitation events and groundwater flow from the forest into the marsh.
Plasma-treatment of MgO film in a.c. plasma display

We studied the influence of the plasma-treatment on MgO film in plasma display panels by XPS, SEM and AFM analysis. With the plasma-treatment, adsorbed contaminants on MgO surface were removed and the surface topography was changed smoothly. We observed that the breakdown and sustained voltages of plasma-treated panels are stabilized more rapidly than those of non-treated panels.
The predominant cultivable subgingival flora of beagle dogs following ligature placement and metronidazole therapy.

Ligature-induced periodontitis was evaluated microbiologically in 8 beagle dogs. Gingival health was established by repeated cleaning. At day 0 subgingival plaque was sampled from individual sites in two quadrants. All teeth in one quadrant were then ligated at the CEJ, and the other quadrant served as a non-ligated control which was cleaned three times each week. At day 14, four dogs were given metronidazole for seven days. Plaque was cultured anaerobically on nonselcctive media, and the predominant cultivable flora was characterized. At day 0 Gram-negative facultative rods represented 56.8 % of the flora. with motile and surface translocating organisms predominating. At day 14 Bacteroides asaccharolyticus, including catalase positive B.asaccharolyticus-like organisms, increased at ligated sites to 34.7 % of the cultivable flora. After metronidazole therapy the total bacterial count decreased, and Gram-negative anaerobic rods became non-detectable. Gram negative facultative bacteria which were motile or surface translocating represented 52.7 % of the cultivable flora after metronidazole treatment. In the beagle dog ligature placement was associated with a shift in the flora from Gram-negative facultative rods to Gram-negative anaerobic rods. Metronidazole treatment reduced the total cultivable flora and selectively reversed the microflora shifts which followed ligature placement.
Necessary Optimality Conditions for Nonconvex Differential Inclusions with Endpoint Constraints

In this paper, we derive necessary optimality conditions for optimization problems defined by non-convex differential inclusions with endpoint constraints. We do this in terms of parametrizations of the convexified form of the differential inclusion and, under additional assumptions, in terms of the inclusion itself.
Paradoxical cerebral herniation secondary to lumbar puncture after decompressive craniectomy for a large space-occupying hemispheric stroke: case report.

Objective and importance The risk of transtentorial herniation after removal of cerebrospinal fluid from the lumbar cistern in the setting of a supratentorial lesion with significant mass effect, increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure, or midline shift is well known. We report a case of cerebral herniation from intracranial hypotension (so-called paradoxical herniation) secondary to a lumbar puncture 1 month after decompressive hemicraniectomy for a large right hemispheric stroke. Clinical presentation A 50-year-old woman was transferred to our neurosurgical service for obtundation 4 days after a lumbar puncture to rule out meningitis and 1 month after decompressive craniectomy for a large right hemispheric stroke. Intervention Eighty grams of mannitol was administered before transfer. On arrival at our hospital, the patient was intubated and a computed tomographic scan was performed. The patient was diagnosed with low-pressure herniation after review of the computed tomographic scan. Rehydration was initiated, and the patient was placed in the Trendelenburg position. She became easier to arouse, but her pupils remained dilated. She experienced a sudden severe cardiac arrhythmia leading to a cardiac arrest. Attempted resuscitation was unsuccessful, and the patient was pronounced dead. Conclusion Lumbar punctures may result in lethal intracranial hypotension in patients after hemicraniectomy and are thus contraindicated unless care is taken to remove the pressure gradient of atmospheric air across the lumbar cistern.
Time to reset the great count

I have come to a similar conclusion as Emiliani [1994] in one main point: that marking time from the event of Christ's birth has no significance for many of the world's cultures; indeed, the ubiquitous spread of the common era count is a common error [Volk, 1995]. Thus perhaps Agnew [1994], who believes that “Emiliani is the only person who has trouble with our calendar,” should talk to some Buddhists or Muslims. Agnew, however, does damage Emiliani's proposed solution (to start a new great count at the beginning of the Holocene by establishing the birth of Christ at the year 10,000), which Agnew points out is too arbitrary. And, I might add, Emiliani's suggestion continues the essential cultural error—Christ's birth is now merely offset by a power of ten. This was also noted by Schaffer [1994].
Antifungals in the treatment of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.

Objective The primary objective of this article was to review the therapy of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), especially to determine if antifungal therapy has a role in treatment of the disease. Data Sources We researched MEDLINE for all published studies on the use of antifungal therapy in ABPA. We also surveyed the literature for articles pertinent in the diagnosis and treatment of ABPA. We included all publications from MEDLINE written in English and non-English publications with English abstracts. Study selection All studies were reviewed. Case reports and small studies are presented. No well placebo-controlled, blinded, parallel studies were located for review. Results Oral corticosteroids are still the therapy of choice for ABPA. Itraconazole may have a role in therapy, but controlled studies are needed. At this time itraconazole should be limited to cases where oral corticosteroids are contraindicated or refused by the patient. In patients requiring large doses of oral steroids, itraconazole may allow a reduction in dose, but should not replace the need to treat with oral corticosteroids. Conclusions Antifungal agents, in particular itraconazole may have a role in the treatment of ABPA, but more data are necessary to confirm the efficacy of itraconazole in ABPA.
Gender Stereotypes and Women's Reports of Liking and Ability in Traditionally Masculine and Feminine Occupations

Gender stereotypes were examined for their causal influence on women's reported liking for and perceived ability to succeed in traditionally masculine and feminine occupations. One hundred twenty-o...
Value Perceptions in Leader-Member Exchange

Abstract In a simulation study, I examined the potential role of values in leader-member exchanges (Dansereau, Graen, & Haga, 1975). Little research has been conducted to determine the factors influential in the development of leadership versus supervisory exchanges (Dienesch & Liden, 1986). In this study, greater similarity between supervisor and subordinate values was perceived in leadership exchanges. The study was conducted in France and the United States. No support was gained for the hypothesis that similarity would be less important in France. The results did suggest greater individualism among American subjects and more conformity among French subjects.
Biology and Life Cycle of Anaphes sordidatus (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), an Egg Parasitoid of the Carrot Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Biology and life cycle of Anaphes sordidatus (Girault), an egg parasitoid of the carrot weevil, Listronotus oregonensis (LeConte), are reported. Adult longevity ranged from 1.4 ± 0.9 (SD) days for adults from host eggs in which four parasitoids developed at 29°C to 9.6 ± 3.7 days for singly emerged adults at 17°C. Fecundity was 49.4 ± 29.3 offspring for singly emerged females and 33.2 ± 19.7 for females that emerged from host eggs in which two or more parasitoids developed. Mating status had no significant effect on fecundity. Most oviposition (79%) occurred within 3 days of adult emergence. Development time (egg-to-adult emergence) was strongly influenced by temperature (8.7 and 17.6 days at 29 and 17°C, respectively). Adult emergence from the host egg occurred primarily during the first 2 h of daylight. Implications of A. sordidatus biology and life cycle for its effectiveness in the field are discussed.
Left ventricular remodeling after acute myocardial infarction: Clinical course and beneficial effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition

Abstract LV enlargement is an important determinant of survival after AMI. Pathyphosiologic mechanisms leading to LV dilatation after an AMI include early thinning and stretching of the infarcted segment (e.g., infarct expansion) and hypertrophy of the non-infarcted myocardium. Such LV dilatation may adversely affect subsequent cardiac function, leading to heart failure and death. Experimental data in animals and preliminary studies in humans have demonstrated that early administration of captopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, may limit infarct expansion and will attenuate progressive LV dilatation. This article discussed the clinical importance of the dilated left ventricle and reviewed advances and ongoing research in the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in the chronic phase after AMI.
Calcium homeostasis: the effect of parathyroid hormone on bone membrane electrical potential difference.

Although it is generally accepted that calcium ion homeostasis is performed primarily by bone, the mechanism by which this regulation is accomplished remains unclear. The recent demonstration of a metabolism-related electrical potential difference across bone membrane implies an active transport process within this layer of cells lining bone surfaces. This work presents a determination of the effect of parathyroid hormone on the measured potential difference to demonstrate whether this potential is involved in the homeostatic mechanism. A thermodynamic evaluation is performed based on a measurement of the distribution of charged and uncharged tracers between bone extracellular fluid and the bathing medium. For embryonic chick calvaria whose viability was assured by the measurement of oxygen consumption, parathyroid hormone at dosage levels up to pharmacological caused an increase in the measured potential difference and thus in the inferred activity level of ionic transport through the membrane. This result is shown to be consistent with an indirect regulation of Ca++ ion through a variable active transport of K+ ion into the interior of bone and thus provides support for the argument that the membrane potential is part of the calcium homeostatic mechanism.
The Influence of Non-Uniform Solar Wind Expansion on the Angular Momentum Loss from the Sun

The influence on the rate of angular momentum loss from the Sun of magnetic geometries which are not spherically symmetric is estimated. Departures from spherical symmetry are expected to influence significantly the loss rate by two effects --the presence of closed magnetic field regions with no loss and also the variability in the radial distance to the Alfvenic point, as stressed by Mestel (1968). The loss rate is calculated for an MHD solarwind model with a solar magnetic field whose normal component at the surface is that of a north-- south dipole. In contrast to Mestel's work, where the field was assumed dipolar within a certain surface and radial outside, the coupling between the solar wind and magnetic field is here taken into account exactly. For equivalent boundary conditions at the surface, the resulting field configuration yields an angular momentum loss rate which is only 15% of that for the monopole field normally used in angular momentum loss estimates. If, instead of equating boundary conditions at the Sun, one equates the two losses at the equator to that observed at 1 AU by spacecraft, then the ratio of the total loss for the distended dipole to that for the monopolemore » is about 40%. (auth)« less
THE PSYCHOLOGICAL REACTION OF PATIENTS TO LEGALIZED ABORTION

Available research concerning psychological effects of abortion is reviewed, and background and psychological data from patients attending a legalized abortion program in New York State are presented. Patients demographically reflected the community at large, and, consistent with the literature, experienced few psychological difficulties. Scientific and ethical implications are discussed.
Contaminant detection on poultry carcasses using hyperspectral data: Part I. Algorithms for selection of individual wavebands

Contaminant detection on chicken carcasses is an important product inspection application. The four contaminant types of interest contain three types of feces from different gastrointestinal regions (duodenum, ceca, and colon) and ingesta (undigested food) from the gizzard. Use of automated or semi-automated inspection systems for detecting fecal contaminant regions is of great interest. Hyperspectral data provided by ARS (Athens, GA) were used to examine detection of contaminants on carcasses. We address quasi-optimal algorithms for selecting a set of spectral bands (wavelengths) in hyperspectral data for on-line contaminant detection (feature selection). We introduce our new improved forward floating selection (IFFS) algorithm and compare its performance to that of other state-of-the-art feature selection algorithms. Our initial results indicate that our method gives an excellent detection rate and performs better than other feature selection algorithms. We also show that combination feature selection algorithms perform worse.
Recent advances by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in drug signature and comparative analysis

Abstract A general review of comparative analyses of illicit drug substances is presented, including discussion of both trace level chemical and ballistics examinations. The results are important for deriving strategic and tactical intelligence via forensic analysis.
Slow voltage inactivation of Ca2+ currents and bursting mechanisms for the mouse pancreatic beta-cell.

Recent whole-cell electrophysiological data concerning the properties of the Ca2+ currents in mouse β -cells are fitted by a two-current model of Ca2+ channel kinetics. When the β -cell K+ currents are added to this model, only large modifications of the measured Ca2+ currents will reproduce the bursting pattern normally observed in mouse islets. However, when the measured Ca2+ currents are modified only slightly and used in conjunction with a K+ conductance that can be modulated dynamically by ATP concentration, reasonable bursting is obtained. Under these conditions it is the K-ATP conductance, rather than the slow voltage inactivation of the Ca2+ current, that determines the interburst interval. We find that this latter model can be reconciled with experiments that limit the possible periodic variation of the K-ATP conductance and with recent observations of intracellular Ca2+ bursting in islets
Future trends in model management systems: parallel and distributed extensions

Abstract A model management system (MMS) is a computer system which aids in the organization, utilization, and execution of models for decision makers. Currently, MMS frameworks do not provide an estimate of computer resource consumption rates for solvers, or permit alternate computational models. Without an estimate of computer resource consumption rates, the decision maker is unable to evaluate alternative solution approaches to select the most efficient. Even with such an estimate, MMS may fail the analyst if all strategies require computation time which exceeds the deadline. This is largely due to the fact the MMS only permits sequential computation. MMS prototypes limit execution of solvers to sequential, so alternative computational models such as Single Program Multiple Datastream and Multiple Input Multiple Datastream, cannot be used. MMS frameworks should be extended to provide algorithmic complexity of solvers as an evaluation measure and to incorporate parallel computational models. Networks of workstations connected by an Ethernet are an attractive low cost means of providing concurrent execution, and suit the flexible processing needs of MMS.
Photophysical and Photochemical Properties of Anthryl-Labeled Polyimides: Fluorescence, Electron Transfer, and Photoreaction

The photophysical and photochemical properties of two anthryl-labeled polyimides have been studied by absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, single-photon counting, and picosecond transient absorption measurements. The observed emission decay is triexponential, with a very short-lived component of ∼50 ps being attributed to electron-transfer quenching by the polyimide backbone, a slower component of ∼2 ns assigned to excimer quenching, and a second long-lived component of ∼10 ns assigned to isolated anthryl chromophore emission. An anthryl cation radical is produced by flash excitation of the pendent anthryl chromophores. Irradiation of thin films of the anthryl-labeled polyimides at 350 nm in air results in the disappearance of the anthryl absorption bands and produces extensively photo-cross-linked polyimide thin films. Several possible photochemical reactions that might account for the disappearance of the anthryl absorption bands and subsequent photo-cross-linking are proposed.
Sensory Loss by Selected Whisker Removal Produces Immediate Disinhibition in the Somatosensory Cortex of Behaving Rats

This study used extracellular unit recordings in behaving animals to evaluate thalamocortical response transformations in the rat whisker‐barrel system. Based on previous acute studies using controlled whisker stimulation, we hypothesized that in a cortical barrel adjacent (non-principal) whiskers exert a net inhibitory effect. In contrast, in thalamic barreloid neurons, the effects of neighboring whiskers should be net facilitatory. We evaluated these hypotheses by recording unit activity at 21 sites in17 animals trained to explore a wire mesh screen with their whiskers. In the middle of the recording session, selected vibrissae were clipped close to the skin surface. The absence of whiskers surrounding the principal whisker was associated with a mean 20% increase in cortical activity and, conversely, a 37% decrease in the thalamic activity. Removal of the principal whisker resulted in a 50% decrease in cortical unit firing. Findings are consistent with the idea that, in the behaving animal, each barrel uses multi-whisker thalamic inputs and local inhibitory circuitry to sharpen the receptive field properties of its constituent neurons. Cortical disinhibition as a consequence of selective whisker removal is likely to be an important factor underlying altered receptive field properties in sensorydeprived animals.
Globalization, Culture, and the Non-Convergence of German and American Norms of Interaction: Revisiting the Lewin Hypothesis

Cultural global i zat i on ra i ses the quest i on regard i ng the convergence of the norms govern i ng face-to-face i nteract i on i n d i fferent cultures. As i ncreased cross-cul- tural commun i cat i on and mob i l i ty lowers the barr i ers of i nteract i on, many argue that local cultural norms w i ll i nev i tably g i ve way to global standards, as def i ned by globally lead i ng cultures such as the Amer i cans. In th i s paper I take a cr i t i cal look at the i dea of converg i ng cultural norms between two countr i es, Germany and the Un i - ted States. Draw i ng on S i mmel’s theory of face-to-face i nteract i on and Kurt Lew i n’s analys i s of German-Amer i can d i fferences, I f i nd that for three key levels of i nteract i on —self-d i sclosure i n the stranger-to-member passage, conversat i on style, and the cons- truct i on of fr i endsh i p— character i st i c German versus Amer i can norms of i nteract i on pers i st w i th l i ttle ev i dence of convergence.
A nonlinear filtering algorithm based on an approximation of the conditional distribution

An effective form of the Gaussian or moment approximation method for approximating optimal nonlinear filters with a diffusion signal process and discrete-time observations is presented. Various computational simplifications reduce the dimensionality of the numerical integrations that need to be done. This process, combined with an iterative Gaussian quadrature method, makes the filter effective for real-time use. The advantages are illustrated by a model that captures the general flavour of modeling the highly uncertain behavior of a ship near obstacles such as a shore line into which it cannot go, and must manoeuvre away in some unknown fashion. The observations are of very poor quality, yet the filter behaves well and is quite stable. The procedure does not rely on linearization, but attempts to compute the conditional moments directly by approximating the integrations used by the optimal filter.
Protein Storage Bodies and Vacuoles

Plants store proteins in embryo and vegetative cells to provide carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur resources for subsequent growth and development. The storage and mobilization cycles of amino acids that compose these proteins are critical to the life cycle of plants. Mechanisms for protein storage and
The current status and potential use of silent technology - RFID to enhance customer relationship

This research focuses on current applications and the potential integration of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology with Customer Relationship Management (CRM). RFID is a 'silent' technology which holds much potential for increasing a company's understanding of its customers. As such, the technology is applicable in at least four phases of the traditional CRM cycle (the development of the offering, superior experience, retention, and targeting and marketing) and can strategically improve customer support and service areas. At the same time, RFID holds the potential to support customers in reactive mode (before customers reach the company). The results of this study details that the current RFID technology has been applied more on customer support, rather than for marketing purposes.
Yohimbine anxiogenesis in the elevated plus maze requires hindbrain noradrenergic neurons that target the anterior ventrolateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis

The α2 adrenergic receptor antagonist yohimbine (YO) increases transmitter release from noradrenergic (NA) terminals in cortical and subcortical brain regions, including the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST). YO activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) stress axis and is potently anxiogenic in rats and humans. We previously reported that hindbrain NA neurons within the caudal nucleus of the solitary tract (NST-A2/C2) and ventrolateral medulla (VLM-A1/C1) that innervate the anterior ventrolateral (vl)BST contribute to the ability of YO to activate the HPA stress axis in rats. To determine whether the same NA pathway also contributes to YO-induced anxiogenesis in the elevated plus maze (EPMZ), a selective saporin ribotoxin conjugate (dopamine beta hydroxylase conjugated to saporin toxin, DSAP) was microinjected bilaterally into the anterior vlBST to destroy its NA inputs. Sham-lesioned controls were microinjected with vehicle. Two experiments were conducted to determine DSAP lesion effects on EPMZ behavior. DSAP lesions did not alter maze behavior in rats after intraperitoneal saline, and did not alter the significant effect of prior maze experience to reduce exploratory and open arm maze activities. However, in maze-naive rats, DSAP lesions abolished YO anxiogenesis in the EPMZ. Post-mortem immunocytochemical analyses confirmed that DSAP consistently ablated caudal NST-A2/C2 and VLM-A1/C1 neurons that innervate the anterior vlBST. DSAP lesions did not destroy non-NA inputs to the anterior vlBST, and produced inconsistent cell loss within the pontine locus coeruleus (A6 cell group) that was unrelated to YO anxiogenesis. Thus, the ability of YO to increase anxiety-like behavior in the EPMZ depends on hindbrain NA neurons that target the anterior vlBST.
Detecting gravesoil with headspace analysis with adsorption on short porous layer open tubular (PLOT) columns

Victims of crimes are often buried in clandestine graves. There are several techniques for finding buried bodies or the scattered remains of a victim; however, none of these methods are very reliable or work in all scenarios. One way to detect gravesoil is to detect the biochemical changes of the surrounding soil due to cadaver decomposition, for example, the release of nitrogenous compounds. A simple and low-cost way to detect these compounds is based on the reaction of alpha amino groups with ninhydrin to form Ruhemann's purple. This test for ninhydrin-reactive nitrogen (NRN) has, to date, only been performed by direct solvent extraction of soil samples. Here, we present a method that detects trace quantities of NRN in the headspace air above gravesoil. Our method is based on an improved purge and trap method developed in our lab for sampling low volatility compounds, as well as volatile compounds at trace quantities, by applying low temperature collection on short alumina-coated porous layer open tubular (PLOT) columns. We modified this method to sample the headspace air above gravesoil with a motorized pipetter and a PLOT column at ambient temperatures. We generated gravesoil using rat cadavers and local soil. Trace quantities of NRN were successfully detected in the headspace air above gravesoil. We report the quantities of NRN recovered for buried rats, rats laid on top of soil, and blank graves (no rats) as a function of time (weeks to months). This work is the first (and thus far, only) example of a method for detecting NRN in the vapor phase, providing another tool for forensic investigators to aid in locating elusive clandestine graves.
Quantitative Signaling and Structure-Activity Analyses Demonstrate Functional Selectivity at the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Opioid Receptor

Comprehensive studies that consolidate selective ligands, quantitative comparisons of G protein versus arrestin-2/3 coupling, together with structure-activity relationship models for G protein–coupled receptor (GPCR) systems are less commonly employed. Here we examine biased signaling at the nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid receptor (NOPR), the most recently identified member of the opioid receptor family. Using real-time, live-cell assays, we identified the signaling profiles of several NOPR-selective ligands in upstream GPCR signaling (G protein and arrestin pathways) to determine their relative transduction coefficients and signaling bias. Complementing this analysis, we designed novel ligands on the basis of NOPR antagonist J-113,397 [(±)-1-[(3R*,4R*)-1-(cyclooctylmethyl)-3-(hydroxymethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-3-ethyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one] to explore structure-activity relationships. Our study shows that NOPR is capable of biased signaling, and further, the NOPR selective ligands MCOPPB [1-[1-(1-methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-(3R)-3-piperidinyl-1H-benzimidazole trihydrochloride] and NNC 63-0532 [8-(1-naphthalenylmethyl)-4-oxo-1-phenyl-1,3,8-triazaspiro[4.5]decane-3-acetic acid, methyl ester] are G protein–biased agonists. Additionally, minor structural modification of J-113,397 can dramatically shift signaling from antagonist to partial agonist activity. We explore these findings with in silico modeling of binding poses. This work is the first to demonstrate functional selectivity and identification of biased ligands at the nociceptin opioid receptor.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibody in male homosexuals: a source for CMV immune globulin.

. Male homosexuals have been found to have an extraordinarily high prevalence, and high titers, of antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV), as determined by complement-fixation and passive hemagglutination tests. These findings support other data suggesting that CMV may be sexually transmitted. The high titers of CMV antibody found in this population suggest that the homosexual population may be a valuable source of plasma for preparations of CMV immune globulins. CMV immune globulins may be useful in passive immunoprophylaxis or immunotherapy in immunosuppressed patients.
Power Play: Coach Power Use and Athletes' Communicative Evaluations and Responses

Coaches, like instructors, must possess and use power effectively. Although power is important for coaching, research on the influence of coaches' power use remains understudied. This study examined 91 current Division I athletes' reports of coach power use and their subsequent communicative evaluations and responses. Results indicated that linear combinations of coach power use predicted athletes' perceptions of communication symmetry, orientations toward coach feedback, and communication satisfaction—after accounting for sport-related variables. Results support the use of prosocial power and the avoidance of antisocial power bases as effective, while recognizing the uniqueness of sport as an educational context.
What's in a name? Taxonomy and nomenclature of invasive gobies in the Great Lakes and beyond.

Abstract The species identities, scientific names, and relationships of Eurasian gobies that invaded the Laurentian Great Lakes – and other species that are predicted to invade in the future – are evaluated here using recently resolved DNA characters. The Round Goby and the Freshwater Tubenose Goby entered the Great Lakes ca. 1990 via ballast water originating from Black Sea ports. The Round Goby spread extensively throughout the Great Lakes and adjacent rivers, whereas the Freshwater Tubenose Goby recently began to expand its range. Both species also are widely invasive in Eurasia, dispersing via canals and shipping. Several of their relatives – the Monkey, Racer, and Bighead gobies – also are invasive in Eurasia, and are predicted to invade the Great Lakes. We discuss results from phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequences from 4 mitochondrial and nuclear gene regions, and provide a revision of their scientific nomenclature. The Freshwater Tubenose Goby was redefined as Proterorhinus semilunaris , which is markedly different and distinctive from the Marine Tubenose Goby Proterorhinus marmoratus . The genus Neogobius , as formerly defined, contained multiple evolutionary lineages and incorrect scientific names. We thus restricted Neogobius to just 4 species—including the Round Goby Neogobius melanostomus and the Black Sea Monkey Goby Neogobius fluviatilis . Several previously recognized subgenera, which were incorrectly grouped in Neogobius , were elevated to the level of genera. Notably, the Racer Goby became Babka gymnocephalus and the Bighead Goby now is Ponticola kessleri . These changes made the names consistent with their true relationships and species characters, which are essential for identifying and characterizing these gobies in invasive and native habitats.
Role of simulations in future magnetospheric programs.

In this paper an attempt is made to assess the impact of simulations on space plasma research. Examples where simulations have been a successful complement to observations and analytical theory are presented. Some current research where simulation techniques are stressed up to and beyond their capabilities are discussed. The major challenges we face in advancing simulation techniques are outlined. Finally, it is argued that even with current techniques, “mission oriented” simulations can have a major influence on upcoming future missions.