cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Validation of a pre-/post-survey to measure change in student social justice attitudes and empathy.

Abstract Introduction Despite endorsement by the Center for the Advancement of Pharmacy Education (CAPE), doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students are infrequently taught concepts related to social justice and empathy in a formal capacity. In addition, no validated measure exists to examine changes in these attitudes. Therefore, we tested the ability of a survey to predict changes in social justice and professional empathy attitudes in PharmD students. Methods Retrospective pre-/post-data collected from PharmD students who completed a population health course at two schools of pharmacy were used to assess validity and reliability of the Social Justice and Empathy Assessment (SJEA) survey. A partial-credit Rasch model was used to test for uni-dimensionality, person and item fit, and rating scale functioning, as well as construct and content validity. Multiple linear regression was used to assess the effect of demographic covariates on the extent of pre-/post-change. Results Of 396 participating students, 60% were non-Hispanic White and 57% were male. The scale demonstrated evidence of uni-dimensionality of a construct designated “social justice self-efficacy.” The rating scale functioned best as a three-option scale. Four items were removed to optimize person-item distribution, though few items were difficult to endorse. Attending the private school was significantly associated with increased pre-/post-change. Conclusions The SJEA is functional as a criterion-referenced assessment to determine whether minimum competency in social justice self-efficacy is experienced before or after participation in a CAPE-informed educational program. Further research should explore contextual predictors of change in social justice self-efficacy.
Form, Funktion und Körpergröße

Das groste Landwirbeltier ist ungefahr eine Million Mal schwerer als das kleinste, und Vertreter der gleichen Wirbeltierfamilie variieren in ihrer Korpergrose haufig um eine Grosenordnung. Ganz offensichtlich haben Tiere mit sehr verschiedenen Korpergrosen unterschiedliche Anforderungen an Unterkunft, Nahrung und Schutz, obwohl sie miteinander verwandt sind: Der winzige Pudu kann nicht einen Meter unter der Wasseroberflache grasen wie ein Elch. Der frisch geschlupfte Waran kann sich verstecken, wo der drei Meter lange Adulte es nicht kann und es auch nicht braucht. Manchmal ist es weniger offensichtlich, dass Groose auch einen starken Einfluss auf Form und Funktion hat. Dies liegt darin begrundet, dass Oberflache und Volumen nicht in dem Mase ansteigen wie lineare Dimensionen, und viele Korperfunktionen hangen von dem Verhaltnis von Oberflache zu Volumen ab. Der Masstab (scaling) ist die Beziehung von Korperproportionen und Korpergrose bei miteinander verwandten und ahnlich geformten Tieren.
Beck Depression Inventory Scores of Coronary Bypass Patients With or Without Psychological Intervention

My paper will deal with ongoing research conducted in Miami, Florida, on the effectiveness of several intervention strategies on post surgical Beck Depression scores in coronary bypass patients.
Spectra and structure of small ring compounds: Microwave spectrum, structure, and dipole moment of 1,1,2,2-tetrafluorocyclobutane

Abstract The microwave spectrum of 1,1,2,2-tetrafluorocyclobutane, C 4 H 4 F 4 , has been recorded from 26.5 to 40.0 GHz. The molecule is a b -type rotor. The R -branch assignments have been made for the ground state and four vibrationally excited states. Excited states of the CF 2 bending and the ring puckering modes have been assigned. Splitting was observed in the excited state of the ring puckering mode indicating that the molecule is puckered. From intensity measurements, the frequency for the 2 ← 0 and 3 ← 1 ring puckering transitions was calculated to be 80 ± 15 cm −1 . The dipole moment was determined by the Stark effect to be μ b = 3.17 ± 0.03 D.
Lateral variation in upper mantle temperature and composition beneath mid-ocean ridges inferred from shear-wave propagation, geoid, and bathymetry

Resolution of both the extent and mechanism of lateral heterogeneity in the upper mantle constraints the nature and scales of mantle convection. Oceanic regions are of particular interest as they are likely to provide the closest glimpse at the patterns of temperature anomalies and convective flow in the upper mantle because of their young age and simple crustal structure relative to continental regions. Lateral variations were determined in the seismic velocity and attenuation structure of the lithosphere and astenosphere beneath the oceans, and these seismological observations were combined with the data and theory of geoid and bathymetry anomalies in order to test and improve current models for seafloor spreading and mantle convection. Variations were determined in mantle properties on a scale of about 1000 km, comparable to the thickness of the upper mantle. Seismic velocity, geoid, and bathymetry anomalies are all sensitive to variations in upper mantle density, and inversions were formulated to combine quantitatively these different data and to search for a common origin. Variations in mantle density can be either of thermal or compositional origin and are related to mantle convection or differentiation.
The Pediatric Risk of Mortality Score: Update 2015*

Objectives:Severity of illness measures have long been used in pediatric critical care. The Pediatric Risk of Mortality is a physiologically based score used to quantify physiologic status, and when combined with other independent variables, it can compute expected mortality risk and expected morbid
Microwave-detected photoconductance decay

Microwave-detected photoconductance decay provides a contactless measurement of the recombination lifetime of free carriers in semiconductors following a pulse of optical excitation. Several complications in interpreting the results obtained by this method have prevented its widespread acceptance. Detailed models are proposed and verified experimentally using a commercially available apparatus. The model adequately predicts the behavior of the microwave reflectance as a function of wafer conductivity and system configuration. A light-biased variation of the technique which makes it possible to characterize lifetimes as a function of excess carrier density is described. This capability makes it possible to measure the emitter saturation current density for diffusion in high-resistivity wafers, a valuable process control tool. >
The influence of turbulence on the transfer of heat to cylinders near the stagnation point

Es wird das problem des Einflusses der Turbulenz auf den Warmeubergang an einem quer angestromten Zylinder untersucht. Die Untersuchung beschrankt sich auf den Teil des Umfangs, uber den sich die laminare Grenzschicht erstreckt. Einige altere Messungen an der Vorderseite eines Zylinders werden miteinander verglichen, und es zeigt sich, dass ein wichtiger Parameter, namlich die Intensitat der Vorturbulenz bei den Untersuchungen nicht berucksichtigt worden ist. Die bekannten Messungen von Schmidt und Wenner werden kritisch untersucht und der genannte Effekt wird an ihnen aufgezeigt.
Influence of diabetes mellitus and insulin treatment on protein turnover in the rat.

Abstract We studied the effects of diabetes mellitus and insulin treatment on total body protein synthesis and catabolism in the rat. Protein turnover was measured by infusing [15N]glycine intravenously and analyzing urine for [15N]urea enrichment. Diabetes mellitus was induced with streptozotocin (50 mg/kg), and diabetic animals were studied with and without insulin replacement. Normal animals, fed and starved, were studied as controls. Diabetes mellitus significantly decreased protein synthesis but did not change catabolism as compared with fed controls. Starvation of normal animals did not alter the protein synthesis rate but significantly increased the rate of protein catabolism. Insulin treatment restored the protein synthesis rate to normal while decreasing the rate of protein catabolism below normal. These findings for total body synthesis and catabolism are consistent with earlier studies of the effects of diabetes mellitus and insulin on protein metabolism in specific organs. It appears that the major effect of the diabetic state on total body protein turnover is to decrease synthesis without significantly changing catabolism.
Predictors of Mortality among United States Veterans with Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis C Virus Coinfection

Background. Understanding the predictors of mortality in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus (HIV/HCV) coinfection can be useful in management of these patients. Methods. We used the Electronically Retrieved Cohort of HCV Infected Veterans (ERCHIVES) for these analyses. Multivariate Cox-regression models were used to determine predictors of mortality. Results. Among 8,039 HIV infected veterans, 5251 (65.3%) had HCV coinfection. The all-cause mortality rate was 74.1 (70.4–77.9) per 1000 person-years (PY) among veterans with HIV/HCV coinfection and 39.8 (36.3–43.6) per 1000 PY for veterans with HIV monoinfection. The multivariable adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of all-cause mortality for HCV infection was 1.58 (1.36–1.84). Positive predictors of mortality included decompensated liver disease (2.33 (1.98–2.74)), coronary artery disease (1.74 (1.32–2.28)), chronic kidney disease (1.62 (1.36–1.92)), and anemia (1.58 (1.31–1.89)). Factors associated with reduced mortality included HCV treatment (0.41 (0.27–0.63)) and higher CD4 count (0.90 (0.87–0.93) per 100 cells/μL higher count). Data were insufficient to make informative analyses of the role of HCV virologic response. Conclusion. HCV coinfection was associated with substantial increased risk of mortality among HIV infected veterans. HCV treatment was associated with significantly lower risk of mortality.
A mechanistic study of Lewis acid-catalyzed covalent organic framework formation

Three boronate ester-linked covalent organic frameworks (COFs) were synthesized using a new approach that employs polyfunctional boronic acid and acetonide-protected catechol reactants in the presence of the Lewis acid catalyst BF3·OEt2. This transformation avoids the use of unstable and insoluble polyfunctional catechols. The COF-5 and COF-10 hexagonal lattices were obtained from a triphenylene tris(acetonide) and the appropriate diboronic acid linker, whereas a square Ni phthalocyanine COF was prepared from the appropriate Ni phthalocyanine tetra(acetonide). The powder X-ray diffraction, infrared spectra, and measured surface areas of these materials matched or exceeded previously reported values. A mechanistic study of this transformation revealed that the dehydrative trimerization of boronic acids to boroxines and the formation of a nonproductive aryl boronic acid–BF3 complex strongly affect the rate of boronate ester formation. Crossover experiments employing substituted boronate ester derivatives suggest that esterhydrolysis is the most likely exchange mechanism during COF formation under BF3·OEt2-catalyzed conditions.
Theory of Sb-induced triple-period ordering in GaInP

During organo-metallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE) of GaInP (001) layers, the structure of the growth surface has a profound influence on the microstructure, and the optical and electrical properties of the resulting bulk material. The $\ensuremath{\beta}2(2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}4)$ surface, terminated with P dimers, provides a thermodynamic driving force for ${\mathrm{CuPt}}_{B}$ ordering. Recently, surfactants such as Sb have been used to reduce this driving force. The use of surfactants to control the surface structure during growth has allowed for band-gap tailoring and the fabrication of heterostructures with no change in solid composition across the interface. Another exciting discovery was that high coverages of Sb induced a bulk triple period ordering. To further our understanding of these phenomena, the P terminated GaP(001) surface was studied via first principles calculations based on the Kohn-Sham density functional theory within the local density approximation (LDA). It was determined that under increasingly P-rich conditions, the $\ensuremath{\beta}2(2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}4)$ and then the $c(4\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}4)$ reconstructions are stable. When the surface is covered with Sb, several different reconstructions are found to be stable in the allowable range of chemical potentials. Under lower group-V coverages the $\ensuremath{\beta}2(2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}4)$ is stable, while at high Sb coverage, $(4\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}3)$ and $(2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}3)$ reconstructions are stable. We propose that these $(\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}3)$ reconstructions explain the triple period ordering seen in GaInP grown with Sb as a surfactant. Total-energy calculations confirm that $(\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}3)$ reconstructions provide a thermodynamic driving force for A-variant triple period ordering.
Cytoarchitecture of rat liver during compensatory growth.

The possibility of the formation of new lobules in rat liver during the course of compensatory growth has been investigated. Two methods inducing regeneration were used: the method of subtotal hepatectomy and the method of porcelain bead implantation. Observations were made at 28, 42, 56, 68, 84 and 112 days after subtotal hepatectomy, and at 28 and 42 days after implantation of the bead. The results obtained from subtotal hepatectomy were expressed as the lobular radius (or portal-central vein distance) measured in micra. The values were 404 μ at the twenty-eighth day after hepatectomy and 324 μ at the one-hundred-twelfth day. The results obtained from bead implantation were 352 μ at the twenty-eighth day after implantation and 305 μ at the forty-second day. It is concluded that regenerating rat liver undergoes structural changes involving new lobule formation between the fifty-sixth and the one-hundred-twelfth day after subtotal hepatectomy, and sometime after the fourth week after bead implantation. The difference in times after which structural changes occur is explained by the difference in intensity of stimulus in the two methods.
An image score inference system for RNAi genome-wide screening based on fuzzy mixture regression modeling

With recent advances in fluorescence microscopy imaging techniques and methods of gene knock down by RNA interference (RNAi), genome-scale high-content screening (HCS) has emerged as a powerful approach to systematically identify all parts of complex biological processes. However, a critical barrier preventing fulfillment of the success is the lack of efficient and robust methods for automating RNAi image analysis and quantitative evaluation of the gene knock down effects on huge volume of HCS data. Facing such opportunities and challenges, we have started investigation of automatic methods towards the development of a fully automatic RNAi-HCS system. Particularly important are reliable approaches to cellular phenotype classification and image-based gene function estimation. We have developed a HCS analysis platform that consists of two main components: fluorescence image analysis and image scoring. For image analysis, we used a two-step enhanced watershed method to extract cellular boundaries from HCS images. Segmented cells were classified into several predefined phenotypes based on morphological and appearance features. Using statistical characteristics of the identified phenotypes as a quantitative description of the image, a score is generated that reflects gene function. Our scoring model integrates fuzzy gene class estimation and single regression models. The final functional score of an image was derived using the weighted combination of the inference from several support vector-based regression models. We validated our phenotype classification method and scoring system on our cellular phenotype and gene database with expert ground truth labeling. We built a database of high-content, 3-channel, fluorescence microscopy images of Drosophila Kc"1"6"7 cultured cells that were treated with RNAi to perturb gene function. The proposed informatics system for microscopy image analysis is tested on this database. Both of the two main components, automated phenotype classification and image scoring system, were evaluated. The robustness and efficiency of our system were validated in quantitatively predicting the biological relevance of genes.
The use of the Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (ART) for imaging of dielectric targets in Radio Frequency Tomography

In this paper, we investigated the used of the Algebraic Reconstruction Technique to obtain images of dielectric targets. A standard implementation of ART has been modified so as to impose physical bounds on the image obtained. Our results show images that in general outperform reconstruction obtained with TSVD (or CG). Images are less noisy, more sharp, and the reconstructed shapes are in better agreement with the dimensions of the actual objects. However, ART is unable to reconstruct correctly a large object when it is not empty, showing an incorrect shape in the measurement data and simply not converging in the simulated data. This unexpected behavior is currently under investigation.
The use of aminoacyl-tRNA to measure polypeptide synthesis by ribosomes isolated from neonatal and adult mouse brain tissue

Abstract Ribosomal protein synthesis was measured with ribosomes isolated from 1-day old and adult mouse brain tissue. When 3H-phe-tRNA was used as the phenylalanine donor, a two fold difference in ribosomal activity was observed. Either mouse brain or E. coli tRNA could participate in brain ribosomal polypeptide synthesis and the maturation-dependent difference in ribosomal activity measured. The difference in the rate of protein synthesis was shown to be associated with the ribosome particles themselves. The incorporation of phenylalanine was shown to be the result of active translocation and was inhibited by diphtheria toxin, N-ethylmaleimide and fusidic acid. Thiostrepton, a potent inhibitor of bacterial peptidyl translocase, did not inhibit brain protein synthesis.
Suppression of locomotor activity in sparrows by treatment with melatonin

Abstract The continuous administration of melatonin via intraperitoneally placed Silastic capsules resulted in a clear reduction in the total amount of perch hopping activity recorded from sparrows maintained on either LD 3:21 or LD 8:16. Removal of the melatonin-filled capsules restored the level of locomotor activity to that seen prior to capsule implantation. These results, in conjunction with a previous study demonstrating that melatonin can alter the circadian rhythm of locomotor activity in sparrows, suggest that the pineal product melatonin plays a role in both the timing and the amount of activity expressed throughout the activity-rest cycle in birds.
MODERATE AND HIGH AMOUNTS OF PROTEIN FROM CASEIN ENHANCE HUMAN ABSORPTION OF ZINC FROM WHOLE-WHEAT OR WHITE ROLLS

Abstract The enhancement of zinc absorption by protein was investigated using a broad range of ingested protein in combination with either whole-wheat or white rolls. Twenty or 40 g of protein from casein were added to rools containing 10 g protein; zinc content was adjusted to 4 mg. The rolls were extrinsically labelled with 65 Zn and fed to 20 healthy participants. Zinc absorption was measured by whole body scintillation counting. Average (±SD) zinc absorption ranged from 8±4% for the whole-wheat rolls with the least protein to 26±7% for the white rolls with the most protein. Less zinc was absorbed from whole-wheat than from white rolls containing the same amount of zinc. The protein and type of flour did not interact to affect zinc absorption. As protein increased from 10 to 50 g, zinc absorption was enhanced with no indication that maximum enhancement had been achieved.
Educational efficiency in the Caribbean: a comparative analysis

With a rapidly growing population and limited resources, accountability has taken on increased importance, especially in the area of public management. To assess the effectiveness of public spending on education in the Caribbean, this article compares performance in five Caribbean nations, looking at input indicators such as the teacher–pupil ratio, expenditure per pupil, the number of adequately trained teachers as a proportion of total teaching staff, and public commitment to education. It analyses their impact on output indicators, including performance in English and mathematics, the repetition rate, and survival rate to the final grade in school. The article concludes that the levels of efficiency in the development of human capital in the Caribbean are very uneven, and that serious challenges face Caribbean countries as they seek to maximise the returns on their investment in education.
Will the Phoenix Rise, and Where Should She Go? The Women's Health Agenda

This article reviews the broad spectrum of women's major health problems from a public health paradigm, which balances the need for individual freedoms and overall equity. The article begins with a brief analysis of the recroachment of women's issues and lack of reform consensus on the abundance of health issues. Specific issues discussed include social ones such as poverty and violence against women, the competition of preventive and treatment resources, specific access to care through insurance mechanisms, treatment and pharmaceutical disparities, personnel gender gaps, and iatrogenic disease pertinent to women. A lengthy agenda is presented from professional literature, research findings, and women's interest group statements. This agenda is forthright and not politically timid, presenting serious challenges to the Clinton team.
The Thought of Work: A Review

The Thought of Work makes a vital contribution to industrial relations by offering a fresh examination of the many meanings of work and by clearly illustrating how those different meanings shape our thoughts and actions. The book also shows that work is fundamental to the human experience and highlights work’s complex and textured nature. The volume stops short of tying the different meanings together by means of an integrative framework. But even without such a framework, which can be constructed by integrating The Thought of Work with John R. Commons’s Industrial Goodwill, Budd makes it clear that work is a fully human activity—not merely an economic, psychological, or social endeavor. Accordingly, The Thought of Work deserves a wide audience.
The effect of beta blockers on cardiac neural discharge associated with coronary occlusion in the cat.

The effect of timolol on postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge, blood pressure, heart rate, and rhythm changes associated with acute coronary occlusion of the left anterior descending artery was examined and compared with the effects of the beta blockers practolol and metoprolol. Timolol (5 mg/kg, IV) was infused 15 minutes prior to coronary occlusion in cats anesthetized with alpha-chloralose. Control heart rate fell from 129 +/- 10 to 106 +/- 2 one minute prior to coronary occlusion and remained at 106 +/- 2 beats/minute in the minute prior to arrhythmia. Control blood pressure fell from 126 +/- 20 to 91 +/- 19 and stabilized at 99 +/- 19 mm Hg one minute prior to coronary occlusion. Mean time to arrhythmia and death was 4.7 +/- 2.3 and 68.0 +/- 51.0 minutes (P greater than .05 vs no drug), respectively. Three cats died and two were sacrificed six hours after coronary occlusion. Blood pressure fell to 86 +/- 20 mm Hg two minutes after coronary occlusion, rose to 95 +/- 23 mm Hg at ten minutes, and remained there for ten minutes. Timolol did not alter postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge prior to coronary occlusion. Two minutes after coronary occlusion, mean postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge was 128 +/- 27 and increased to 139 +/- 36 impulses/second (% control) 4 minutes after coronary occlusion. A similar trend was found for the data recorded in 15 nerves (eight cats) in which coronary occlusion was initiated without timolol. The data suggest that a difference exists among beta blockers because prior to coronary occlusion, the cardioselective drugs metoprolol (1, 5, and 10 mg/kg, IV) and practolol (8 mg/kg, IV) depressed postganglionic cardiac sympathetic neural discharge whereas noncardioselective timolol did not. Because all three beta blockers increased the times to arrhythmia and death (although the increase was significant only after metoprolol and practolol), the acute protective mechanism does not appear to be due primarily to a depression of spontaneous sympathetic neural discharge.
On the correlation dimension of optokinetic nystagmus eye movements: computational parameters, filtering, nonstationarity, and surrogate data

We discuss the estimation of the correlation dimension of optokinetic nystagmus (OKN), a type of reflexive eye movement. Parameters of the time-delay reconstruction of the attractor are investigated, including the number of data points, the time delay, the window duration, and the duration of the signal being analyzed. Adequate values are recommended. Digital low-pass filtering causes the dimension to increase as the filter cutoff frequency decreases, in accord with a previously published prediction. The stationarity of the correlation dimension is examined; the dimension appears to decrease over the course of 120 s of continuous stimulation. Implications for the reliable estimation of the dimension are considered. Several surrogate data sets are constructed, based on both early (0–30 s) and late (100–130 s) OKN segments. Most of the surrogate data sets randomize some aspect of the original OKN, while maintaining other aspects. Dimensions are found for all surrogates and for the original OKN. Evidence is found that is consistent with some amount of deterministic and nonlinear dynamics in OKN. When this structure is randomized in the surrogate, the dimension changes or the dimension algorithm ceases to converge to a finite value. Implications for further analysis and modeling of OKN are discussed.
Unmyelinated nerve fibers in the human dental pulp express markers for myelinated fibers and show sodium channel accumulations

Background The dental pulp is a common source of pain and is used to study peripheral inflammatory pain mechanisms. Results show most fibers are unmyelinated, yet recent findings in experimental animals suggest many pulpal afferents originate from fibers that are myelinated at more proximal locations. Here we use the human dental pulp and confocal microscopy to examine the staining relationships of neurofilament heavy (NFH), a protein commonly expressed in myelinated afferents, with other markers to test the possibility that unmyelinated pulpal afferents originate from myelinated axons. Other staining relationships studied included myelin basic protein (MBP), protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 to identify all nerve fibers, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) to identify sympathetic fibers, contactin-associated protein (caspr) to identify nodal sites, S-100 to identify Schwann cells and sodium channels (NaChs).
Evaluation of empiric antibiotic use in surgical sepsis

Abstract Background We performed an evaluation of antimicrobial guidelines for patients with surgical sepsis. Methods The purpose of this study was to validate current empiric antibiotic recommendations in our sepsis protocol based on the suspected site of infection. The primary objective was to assess the appropriateness of empiric antibiotic recommendations and to determine if initial empiric antibiotics provided adequate coverage compared with sensitivity data (accuracy). Secondary end points included antibiotic protocol compliance, intensive care unit (ICU)-free days, and mortality. Results Appropriate antibiotics were prescribed in 82% of patients. Of the culture-positive patients, 72% received accurate antibiotics. ICU-free days were greater for patients in the compliant group (14.5 vs 8.4; P = .014). Hospital mortality was greater in patients who were noncompliant with protocol recommendations (22% vs 17%; P = .44). Conclusions Our current antibiotic guidelines provide appropriate and accurate antimicrobial coverage. Noncompliance with the antibiotic protocol resulted in fewer ICU-free days and increased hospital mortality in surgical sepsis patients.
Changes in protonation associated with substrate binding and cob(I)alamin formation in cobalamin-dependent methionine synthase

Methionine synthase catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group from methylcobalamin enzyme to homocysteine, generating methionine and cob(I)alamin enzyme, and then from methyltetrahydrofolate to cob(I)alamin enzyme, generating tetrahydrofolate and regenerating the methylcobalamin enzyme. The reactions catalyzed by methionine synthase require deprotonation of the substrate, homocysteine, and protonation of the product tetrahydrofolate, with no net change in proton stoichiometry for a complete turnover cycle. In addition, formation of the intermediate cob(I)alamin enzyme requires a change in the cobalt ligand geometry from 6-coordinate to 4-coordinate, and this rearrangement may require the transient protonation of protein residues to stabilize the cob(I)alamin enzyme. In the E. coli enzyme, the lower face of the methylcobalamin cofactor is coordinated by histidine 759, which is hydrogen bonded to aspartate 757 and then to serine 810, forming a "ligand triad". It has previously been shown that reduction of cob(II)alamin enzyme to cob(I)alamin is associated with the uptake of a proton from solution, and it has been postulated that this proton resides within the His759-Asp757 pair. Cob(I)alamin can also be generated by demethylation of methylcobalamin enzyme by homocysteine; it was not known whether this mode of cob(I)alamin formation was associated with proton uptake. In this paper, we use equilibrium titrations and kinetic analyses in the presence of the pH indicator dye phenol red, along with studies of the pH dependence of oxidation/reduction equilibria, to identify and characterize mechanistic steps associated with proton uptake and release in both the turnover and reactivation of the enzyme. We confirm that cob(I)alamin formation by reduction of cob(II)alamin enzyme is associated with proton uptake and show that mutation of Asp757 to Glu abolishes the pH dependence of this reduction. Demethylation of methylcobalamin enzyme also leads to cob(I)alamin formation and is also shown to be associated with proton uptake. By observing pre-steady-state reactions with homocysteine and methyltetrahydrofolate in the presence of phenol red, we show that this proton uptake occurs at a rate that is equal to the rate of formation of the cob(I)alamin enzyme. In addition, we show that binding of homocysteine to the enzyme results in the rapid release of a proton, presumably the homocysteine thiol proton. In contrast, binding methyltetrahydrofolate to the enzyme does not result in proton uptake, suggesting that the proton destined for the product tetrahydrofolate is already present on the free methylcobalamin enzyme.
Deliberation scheduling for problem solving in time-constrained environments

Abstract We are interested in the problem faced by an agent with limited computational capabilities, embedded in a complex environment with other agents and processes not under its control. Careful management of computational resources is important for complex problem-solving tasks in which the time spent in decision making affects the quality of the responses generated by a system. This paper describes an approach to designing systems that are capable of taking their own computational resources into consideration during planning and problem solving. In particular, we address the design of systems that manage their computational resources by using expectations about the performance of decision-making procedures and preferences over the outcomes resulting from applying those procedures. Our approach is called deliberation scheduling. Deliberation scheduling involves the explicit allocation of computational resources to decision-making procedures based on the expected effect of those allocations on the system's performance.
Role of isoleucine-554 in lithium binding by the Na+/dicarboxylate cotransporter NaDC1.

Sodium-coupled transport of citric acid cycle intermediates, such as succinate and citrate, is mediated by the NaDC1 transporter located on the apical membrane of kidney proximal tubule and small intestine cells. Our previous study showed that transmembrane helix (TM) 11 of NaDC1 is important for sodium and lithium binding, as well as for determining citrate affinity (Biochemistry 38:6151, 1999). In the present study, 21 amino acids in TM11 and the extracellular loop of NaDC1 were mutated one at a time to cysteine. All of the mutants were well expressed on the plasma membrane, but many of them had decreased transport activity. The G550C, W561C and L568C mutants were inactive, suggesting that these residues may be critical for function. None of the cysteine mutants was sensitive to inhibition by the membrane impermeant cysteine reagents, MTSET or MTSES, suggesting that the helix is inaccessible to the extracellular solvent. Although NaDC1 is inhibited by low concentrations of lithium in the presence of sodium, the I554C mutant was stimulated by lithium with a K0.5 of 4.8 mM. The I554C mutant also had decreased affinity for sodium. We conclude that TM 11 is likely to be an outer helix in NaDC1 that contains several residues critical for transport. Ile-554 in the middle of the helix may be an important determinant of cation affinity and selectivity, in particular the high affinity cation binding site that recognizes lithium.
Voltage-controlled pulsations of a liquid-crystalline fiber coupler.

Very slow spontaneous electrohydrodynamic pulsations in the long-range molecular structure of a thin nematic liquid-crystalline (NLC) layer sandwiched (in a unique sensing geometry) between two side-polished single-mode fibers are reported. These pulsations appear above a certain threshold dc voltage level (applied to electrodes built into the coupler), beyond which their frequency is proportional to the voltage. The organizational changes induced in the NLC layer by these pulsations cause alterations in the splitting ratio of the coupler, providing one with a convenient means of following their behavior.
Quantum electrodynamics based on self-fields, without second quantization: Apparatus dependent contributions to g-2.

Using a formulation of quantum electrodynamics which is not second quantized, but rather based on self-fields, we calculate the energy shifts of an electron bound by a magnetic field in the vicinity of an infinite-plane conductor. We confirm the recent result of Kreuzer that the energy shift arising from the plate-induced change in the magnetic moment, \ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\mu}/\ensuremath{\mu}=-\ensuremath{\alpha}/4Rm, is exactly canceled by a similar change \ensuremath{\Delta}m/m=-\ensuremath{\alpha}/4Rm in the mass. Thus no change occurs in the spin-precession frequency to order \ensuremath{\alpha}/Rm, in agreement with Brown et al. This cancellation of the two effects resolves an apparent controversy in recent literature over whether such a shift to the spin-precession frequency ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{s}$ occurs. There is, however, a boundary-induced change in the cyclotron frequency ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{c}$ which we calculate in the quantum result as \ensuremath{\Delta}${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{c}$/${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{c}$=\ensuremath{\alpha}/8Rm to order \ensuremath{\alpha}. Our method of approach is novel in that it uses only the self-field to compute radiative corrections; there are no vacuum fluctuations.
Time of day influences the voluntary intake and behavioral response to methamphetamine and food reward.

The circadian timing system influences a vast array of behavioral responses. Substantial evidence indicates a role for the circadian system in regulating reward processing. Here we explore time of day effects on drug anticipation, locomotor activity, and voluntary methamphetamine (MA) and food intake in animals with ad libitum food access. We compared responses to drug versus a palatable treat during their normal sleep times in early day (zeitgeber time (ZT) 0400) or late day (ZT 1000). In the first study, using a between-subjects design, mice were given daily 1-h access to either peanut butter (PB-Alone) or to a low or high concentration of MA mixed in PB (MA + PB). In study 2, we repeated the experiment using a within-subjects design in which mice could choose between PB-Alone and MA + PB at either ZT 0400 or 1000. In study 3, the effects of MA-alone were investigated by evaluating anticipatory activity preceding exposure to nebulized MA at ZT 0400 vs. ZT 1000. Time of day effects were observed for both drug and palatable treat, such that in the between groups design, animals showed greater intake, anticipatory activity, and post-ingestional activity in the early day. Furthermore, there were differences among mice in the amount of MA ingested but individuals were self-consistent in their daily intake. The results for the within-subjects experiment also revealed robust individual differences in preference for MA + PB or PB-Alone. Interestingly, time of day effects on intake were observed only for the preferred substance. Anticipatory activity preceding administration of MA by nebulization was also greater at ZT 0400 than ZT 1000. Finally, pharmacokinetic response to MA administered intraperitoneally did not vary as a function of time of administration. The results indicate that time of day is an important variable mediating the voluntary intake and behavioral effects of reinforcers.
Sleep characteristics of self-reported long sleepers.

BACKGROUND Self-reported long habitual sleep durations (≥ 9 h per night) consistently predict increased mortality. We compared objective sleep parameters of self-reported long versus normal duration sleepers to determine whether long sleepers truly sleep more or have an underlying sleep abnormality. METHODS Older men participating in the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study (MrOS) were recruited for a comprehensive sleep assessment, which included wrist actigraphy, overnight polysomnography (PSG), and a question about usual nocturnal sleep duration. RESULTS Of the 3134 participants (mean age 76.4 ± 5.6; 89.9% Caucasian), 1888 (60.2%) reported sleeping 7-8 h (normal sleepers) and 174 (5.6%) reported ≥ 9 h (long sleepers). On actigraphy, long sleepers spent on average 63.0 min more per night in bed (P < 0.001), slept 42.8 min longer (P < 0.001), and spent 6.8 min more per day napping (P = 0.01). Based on PSG, the apnea hypopnea index, periodic limb movement index, arousal index, and sleep stage distribution did not differ. After adjusting for differences in demographics, comorbidities, and medication usage, self-reported long sleepers continued to spend more time in bed and sleep more, based on both actigraphy and PSG. Each additional 30 min in bed or asleep as measured by actigraphy increased the odds of being a self-reported long-sleeper 1.74-fold and 1.33-fold, respectively (P < 0.001 for both). CONCLUSIONS On objective assessment, self-reported long sleepers spend more time in bed and more time asleep than normal duration sleepers. This is not explained by differences in comorbidity or sleep disorders.
Water sources of urban trees in the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

In semi-arid cities, urban trees are often irrigated, but may also utilize natural water sources such as groundwater. Consequently, the sources of water for urban tree transpiration may be uncertain, complicating efforts to efficiently manage water resources. We used a novel approach based on stable isotopes to determine tree water sources in the Los Angeles basin, where we hypothesized that trees would rely on irrigation water in the soil rather than develop deep roots to tap into groundwater. We evaluated the oxygen (δ18O) and hydrogen (δD) isotope ratios of xylem water, irrigation water, soil water, and groundwater in a study of temporal patterns in water sources at two urban sites, and a study of spatial patterns at nine urban sites and one “natural” riparian forest. Contrary to our hypothesis, we found that despite frequent irrigation, some trees tap into groundwater, although in most species this was a small water source. Some trees appeared to be using very shallow soil water at <30 cm depth, suggesting that these mature urban trees were quite shallowly rooted. In the natural site, trees appeared to be using urban runoff in addition to shallow soil water. We were able to identify tree uptake of precipitation at only 3 sites. The results show that some irrigated trees utilize groundwater and do not rely solely on irrigation water, which may make them able to withstand drought and/or water conservation measures. However, some irrigated trees may develop very shallow root systems, which may make them more susceptible.
Accuracy and reliability of cone-beam computed tomography for measuring alveolar bone height and detecting bony dehiscences and fenestrations.

Introduction The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the diagnosis of naturally occurring fenestrations and bony dehiscences. In addition, we evaluated the accuracy and reliability of CBCT for measuring alveolar bone margins. Methods Thirteen dry human skulls with 334 teeth were scanned with CBCT technology. Measurements were made on each tooth in the volume-rendering mode from the cusp or incisal tip to the cementoenamel junction and from the cusp or incisal tip to the bone margin along the long axis of the tooth. The accuracy of the CBCT measurements was determined by comparing the means, mean differences, absolute mean differences, and Pearson correlation coefficients with those of direct measurements. Accuracy for detection of defects was determined by using sensitivity and specificity. Positive and negative predictive values were also calculated. Results The CBCT measurements showed mean deviations of 0.1 ± 0.5 mm for measurements to the cementoenamel junction and 0.2 ± 1.0 mm to the bone margin. The absolute values of the mean differences were 0.4 ± 0.3 mm for the cementoenamel junction and 0.6 ± 0.8 mm for the bone margin. The sensitivity and specificity of CBCT for fenestrations were both about 0.80, whereas the specificity for dehiscences was higher (0.95) and the sensitivity lower (0.40). The negative predictive values were high (≥0.95), and the positive predictive values were low (dehiscence, 0.50; fenestration, 0.25). The reliability of all measurements was high (r ≥0.94). Conclusions By using a voxel size of 0.38 mm at 2 mA, CBCT alveolar bone height can be measured to an accuracy of about 0.6 mm, and root fenestrations can be identified with greater accuracy than dehiscences.
Cardiac material markers from tagged MR images

Tagged magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shown great promise in non-invasive analysis of heart motion. To replace implanted markers as a gold standard, however, tagged MRI must be able to track a sparse set of material points, so-called material markers, with high accuracy. This paper presents a new method for generating accurate motion estimates over a sparse set of material points using standard, parallel-tagged MR images. Each tracked point is located at the intersection of three tag surfaces, each of which is estimated using a thin-plate spline. The intersections are determined by an iterative alternating projections algorithm for which a proof of convergence is provided. The resulting data sets are compatible with applications developed to exploit implanted marker data. One set of these material markers from a normal human volunteer is examined in detail using several methods to visualize the markers. Numerical results that include additional studies are also discussed. Finally, an error analysis is presented using a computer-simulated left ventricle for which material markers are tracked with an RMS error of approximately 0.2 mm for typical imaging parameters and noise levels.
Optimized Protocol for Efficient Transfection of Dendritic Cells without Cell Maturation

Dendritic cells (DCs) can be considered sentinels of the immune system which play a critical role in its initiation and response to infection. Detection of pathogenic antigen by naive DCs is through pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) which are able to recognize specific conserved structures referred to as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPS). Detection of PAMPs by DCs triggers an intracellular signaling cascade resulting in their activation and transformation to mature DCs. This process is typically characterized by production of type 1 interferon along with other proinflammatory cytokines, upregulation of cell surface markers such as MHCII and CD86 and migration of the mature DC to draining lymph nodes, where interaction with T cells initiates the adaptive immune response. Thus, DCs link the innate and adaptive immune systems. The ability to dissect the molecular networks underlying DC response to various pathogens is crucial to a better understanding of the regulation of these signaling pathways and their induced genes. It should also help facilitate the development of DC-based vaccines against infectious diseases and tumors. However, this line of research has been severely impeded by the difficulty of transfecting primary DCs. Virus transduction methods, such as the lentiviral system, are typically used, but carry many limitations such as complexity and bio-hazardous risk (with the associated costs). Additionally, the delivery of viral gene products increases the immunogenicity of those transduced DCs. Electroporation has been used with mixed results, but we are the first to report the use of a high-throughput transfection protocol and conclusively demonstrate its utility. In this report we summarize an optimized commercial protocol for high-throughput transfection of human primary DCs, with limited cell toxicity and an absence of DC maturation. Transfection efficiency (of GFP plasmid) and cell viability were more than 50% and 70% respectively. FACS analysis established the absence of increase in expression of the maturation markers CD86 and MHCII in transfected cells, while qRT-PCR demonstrated no upregulation of IFNβ. Using this electroporation protocol, we provide evidence for successful transfection of DCs with siRNA and effective knock down of targeted gene RIG-I, a key viral recognition receptor, at both the mRNA and protein levels.
Sex and Society: A Research Note from Social History and Anthropology1

“The personal is political” was a central insight of the wave of feminism which gathered momentum in the 1960s. Within that phrase is condensed the understanding that the seemingly most intimate details of private existence are actually structured by larger social relations. Attention to the personal politics of intimate life soon focused on sexuality, and many canons of sexual meaning were challenged. The discovery of erotic art and symbols as malecentered, the redefinition of lesbian sexuality as positive and life-affirming, and the dismantling of the two-orgasm theory as a transparently male perception of the female body were among the products of this critique.