cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MUROLYTOGRAPHY: A NEW PEPTIDOGLYCAN ANALYSIS TECHNIQUE FOR S. AUREUS EPIDEMIOLOGY

We have demonstrated interstrain differences among clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus by analyzing the breakdown products of their peptidoglycans, a technique we call "murolytography". Interstrain differences were demonstrated both in products liberated by endogenous autolysins and in products released by exogenous murolytic enzymes. Complementary analyses of the products were accomplished by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) with the demonstration of strain-specific patterns ("murolytograms"). TLC murolytograms proved more convenient for the analysis of products released by endogenous autolysins while the higher molecular weight products generated by exogenous enzymes were better separated by SDS-PAGE techniques. We have studied a number of clinical isolates of S. aureus including strains from four hospital outbreaks. Whereas strains collected at random showed a variety of different murolytograms when processed under identical conditions, strains isolated from the same epidemic showed identical murolytograms. Those epidemic strains sharing a murolytogram shared a common phage type and/or methicillin resistance as well. Murolytography is rapidly performed and avoids the delays associated with phage typing at external laboratories. It is of particular use to the hospital epidemiologist in the study of staphylococci, organisms whose antibiotograms are seldom distinctive.
Spin waves and topological terms in the mean-field theory of two-dimensional ferromagnets and antiferromagnets.

We look for possible topological terms in a mean-field Lagrangian for ferromagnets and antiferromagnets inspired by the Hubbard model and study their physical effects. A topological term corresponding to Berry's phase causes the order parameter to behave like a spin moment. We find that the Hopf term is not induced and thus there is no evidence for a neutral fermion in this theory.
Constitutive Release of ATP and Evidence for Major Contribution of Ecto-nucleotide Pyrophosphatase and Nucleoside Diphosphokinase to Extracellular Nucleotide Concentrations

Nucleotides are important extracellular signaling molecules. At least five mammalian P2Y receptors exist that are specifically activated by ATP, UTP, ADP, or UDP. Although the existence of ectoenzymes that metabolize extracellular nucleotides is well established, the relative flux of ATP and UTP through their extracellular metabolic products remains undefined. Therefore, we have studied the kinetics of accumulation and metabolism of endogenous ATP in the extracellular medium of four different cell lines. ATP concentrations reached a maximum immediately after change of medium and decreased thereafter with a single exponential decay (t½;1 ∼;230–40 min). ATP levels did not fall to zero but attained a base-line concentration that was independent of the medium volume and of the initial ATP concentration. Although the base-line concentration of ATP remained stable for up to 12 h, [γ-32P]ATP added to resting cells as a radiotracer was completely degraded within 120 min, indicating that steady state reflected a basal rate of ATP release balanced by ATP hydrolysis (20–200 fmol × min−1 × cell−6). High performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed that the γ-phosphate of ATP was rapidly, although transiently, transferred during steady state to species subsequently identified as UTP and GTP, indicating the existence of both ecto-nucleoside diphosphokinase activity and the accumulation of endogenous UDP and GDP. Conversely, addition of [γ-32P]UTP to resting cells resulted in transient formation of [γ-32P]ATP, indicating phosphorylation of endogenous ADP by nucleoside diphosphokinase. The final32P-products of [γ-32P]ATP metabolism were [32P]orthophosphoric acid and a 32P-labeled species that was further purified and identified as [32P]inorganic pyrophosphate. In C6 cells, the formation of [32P]pyrophosphate from [γ-32P]ATP at steady state exceeded by 3-fold that of [32P]orthophosphate. These results illustrate for the first time a constitutive release of ATP and other nucleotides and reveal the existence of a complex extracellular metabolic pathway for released nucleotides. In addition to the existence of an ecto-ATPase activity, our results suggest a major scavenger role of ecto-ATP pyrophosphatase and a transphosphorylating activity of nucleoside diphosphokinase.
Theorizing at the Highest Levels

The Great Powers and the International System: Systemic Theory in Empirical Perspective. By Bear F. Braumoeller. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2012. 276 pp., $29.99 paperback (ISBN-13: 978-1-107-65918-6). Studies of international relations theory experience something of a paradox. On the one hand, systems theories are relatively infrequent in contemporary scholarship. The 1950s and the 1960s were perhaps its heyday, with works such as Morton Kaplan's System and Process in International Politics (1957) among the works championing the system level of analysis. Interdisciplinary efforts, manifested in the publication General Systems Yearbook , sought to generate theories across a wide set of human and animal behavior. Yet such theory gradually went out of fashion in favor of rational choice and other approaches that focused on state and leader decision making; a quick survey of articles in major journals in the field over the last decade reveals few that look at international system properties. Yet, curiously, most syllabi in graduate international theory seminars devote substantial attention to systemic theories, with such works as Waltz's Theory of International Politics (1979), Wallerstein's multivolume works on the world economy (for example, 1979), and Wendt's Social Theory of International Politics (1999) treated as canon. Systems theory has not necessarily produced the payoffs in terms of prediction and explanations that social scientists have sought, but it remains the “ark of the covenant” that international relations …
Narrative Therapy Pathways for Re-authoring with Parents of Adolescents Coming-out as Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual

Narrative therapy with parents as they are coming to terms with their adolescent sons’ and daughters’ coming-out as lesbian or gay provides a framework for reauthoring stories and revisioning identities as they negotiate the challenge of becoming lesbian/gay-membered families. Recognized for complementing the elements of multicultural practice, narrative therapy offers therapeutic interventions that are culturally sensitive and acknowledge the role of power and privilege in socially imaging what it means to be lesbian or gay. In this article the familiar storylines that these families bring into therapy are illustrated, and family work with parents of lesbian, gay, and bisexual adolescents is conceptualized using a narrative therapy lens.
Backplane/FDA correlation-FDA replacing commercial backplanes for SoC ethernet electrical validation

Due to the time to market (TTM) pressures for System on Chip (SoC), improvements in validation methodology are needed to reduce the time to launch products. Current high speed links run hundreds of signals at Gigabit per second data rates over one or two connectors and tens of inches of backplane. Suitable connectors have to fulfill tight crosstalk, reflection, and attenuation specifications. Accurate connector measurements and models are critical to the successful design of the whole link. However, due to high pin count and interdependencies with the backplane environment connector characterization is still a challenging task. In this paper a new enhanced electrical validation testing methodology is presented, focusing on Ethernet post silicon validation over backplane. This paper shows that it is possible to obtain similar results (voltage and timing) using a frequency dependent attenuator (FDA) as using commercial backplane. The results were obtained at 2.5Gbps.
Analysis of the plasminogen activator activity of the human glomerulus.

Analysis of the plasminogen activator activity of the human glomerulus. An assay was developed to measure plasminogen activator activity from isolated human glomeruli. Activator was extracted from individual glomeruli with 0.2 M phosphate-buffered saline, pH 7.4 (PBS), containing 0.01% Triton X-100 and quantitated in 125 I-fibrin films. Quenching studies using antibodies to tissue plasminogen activator and urokinase revealed that the extracted glomerular plasminogen activator activity contained both tissue plasminogen activator and urokinase. Monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies raised to tissue plasminogen activator demonstrated low-level inhibition of urokinase activity and monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies to urokinase demonstrated low-level inhibition of tissue plasminogen activator activity. The assay should be applicable to the study of glomerular plasminogen activator activity in experimental and human kidney diseases. The detection of antibody cross-reactivity to tissue plasminogen activator and urokinase may be related to the sensitivity of the 125 I-fibrin film assay and to the structural similarities of these activators.
SU‐FF‐T‐484: Late Survival Post Acute Total Body Irradiation in the Rhesus Macaque With Bone Marrow Sparing

Purpose: There are several sequelae consequent to acute high‐dose radiation exposure. The sequelae, in order of occurrence, are the acute radiation syndrome (ARS) composed of the two subsyndromes responsible for early mortality, the hematopoietic and gastrointestinal, followed by delayed effects. The delayed effects expected are pneumonitis and subsequent lung fibrosis and respiratory failure. We investigate these delayed effects in rhesus macaques surviving acute total body irradiation with bone marrow (TBI‐BM) sparing at 11.5 to 12 Gy. Method and Materials: A varian 21EX linear accelerator is used to irradiate non‐human primates (NHP) at 153 SSD using a 40 × 40 cm field size at isocenter. The irradiation takes place at approximately 80 cGy / min at midplane. The fields are in the AP and PA directions and sparing of the primates is achieved from the knee cap down. CTimaging is conducted at intervals of 30 days to evaluate the gut and lungs.Results: Three survivors are obtained from a cohort of 16 NHP undergoing TBI‐BM at 11.5–12.0 Gy, in a single exposure. CT scans are evaluated for defects in the gut and lung at 30 day intervals, showing radiographical evidence of a late GI syndrome, pleural effusion, ascites and pneumonitis. The pleural effusion and ascites are associated with pericardial irradiation. Conclusion: These result confirm that sufficient active bone marrow sparing drastically improves long term survival at doses greater than 7.5 Gy. Notably, the longest surviving NHP in this cohort has presented with ascites and pleural effusion that have led to cause of death at day 100. This result confirms an important late effect, pericardial injury as a possible cause of death in late survivors that may override other lung‐injury associated mortality. This work supported by NIAID Contract ♯ HHSN266200500043C
Effect of leverage on the finite sample efficiencies of high breakdown estimators

Abstract The presence of leverage points in regression can have a dramatic impact on the finite sample efficiencies (versus least squares under Gaussian errors) of high breakdown estimators. In general, as the x -value of a leverage point becomes more extreme, the finite sample efficiencies decrease and larger sample sizes are required for asymptotic results to apply. However, the least median of squares (LMS) and least trimmed squares (LTS) estimators exhibit higher finite sample than asymptotic efficiencies. On the other hand, the finite sample efficiency of the Schweppe-type one-step generalized M estimator (S1S), starting from LTS, which minimizes the sum of the h smallest squared residuals, converges from below to its asymptotic value as the sample size increases. We suggest that the finite sample variance itself be replaced by a trimmed sample variance which accounts for the long tail behavior encountered in finite samples. An improvement on the S1S estimator, which consists of never downweighting any point with one of the h smallest squared LTS residuals, performs quite well with respect to either measure of efficiency, while retaining a high breakdown point.
Signal transduction through G proteins in the cardiac myocyte.

The membrane of the cardiocyte contains a large variety of molecules whose function is to transmit signals from outside the cell to inside. The signals are initiated by receptors for a variety of agonists and propagated by a family of heterotrimeric G proteins to ion channels and intracellular enzymes. The large complement of receptors, G proteins, and effectors found in the cardiocyte raises fundamental questions about the mechanisms that assure the precision and timing of the heart cell's response to external stimuli.
Effects of ambient air pollution on symptom severity and medication use in children with asthma.

Background Exposure to air pollutants has been investigated as a possible cause of asthma attacks in children. Objective To investigate the short-term effects of air pollutants on a panel of 133 children with asthma who enrolled in the Childhood Asthma Management Program. Methods During screening, the children completed daily diary cards for an average of 58 days to indicate their medication use and asthma severity. We used ordinal logistic regression to compare the odds of a more serious relative to a less serious asthma attack, and we used a Poisson model to analyze medication use. In both analyses we accommodate dependence in the data and different periods of observation for study subjects. Results Our results indicate that a 10-μg/m 3 increase in particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 μm (PM 2.5 ) lagged 1 day was associated with a 1.20 times increased odds of having a more serious asthma attack [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05 to 1.37] and a 1.08-fold increase in medication use (95% CI, 1.01 to 1.15). A 10-μg/m 3 increase in particulate matter less than or equal to 10 μm (PM 10 ) increased the odds of a more serious asthma attack (odds ratio=1.12; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.22) and also increased medication use (relative risk=1.05; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.09). Conclusions Increases in PM 2.5 and PM 10 are significantly associated with an increased risk of more severe asthma attacks and medication use in Seattle area children with asthma. We also found associations with carbon monoxide, but we believe that carbon monoxide is a marker for exposure to combustion byproducts.
Effect of Nb on the glass-forming ability of mechanically alloyed Fe–Ni–Zr–B alloys

Glass formation by mechanical alloying was achieved in a multicomponent Fe-based alloy system of composition Fe 42 Ni 28 Zr 10− x Nb x B 20 . It was shown that addition of Nb has increased the glass-forming ability, measured in terms of the milling time required to produce the alloy in the glassy state. This effect seems to be most prominent when 2 at.% Nb was added. Additionally, it was noted that glass formation was accompanied by contraction of the crystalline lattice.
Effect of Freezing and Thawing Process on the Capacity of Malate-Aspartate Shuttle of Boar Spermatozoa

The effects of freezing and thawing process on the capacity of malate-aspartate shuttle were studied in the boar spermatozoa. Shuttle capacity was indexed by measuring the ratio of lactate to pyruvate during ethanol oxidation. In the presence of glucose and ethanol, the ratio of lactate to pyruvate of washed spermatozoa was 15.1, while the ratio of frozen-thawed spermatozoa rose to 32.9. Addition of aminooxyacetate, inhibitor of malate-aspartate shuttle, caused an increase of the ratio of lactate to pyruvate in the washed spermatozoa (37.0) and the frozen-thawed spermatozoa (36.1). These results suggested that the capacity of malate-aspartate shuttle, transferring the reducing equivalents of cytosolic NADH produced during ethanol oxidation to mitochondoria, is higher in the washed spermatozoa, and is lower in the frozen-thawed spermatozoa.
Computerized Mastery Testing With Nonequivalent Testlets

A procedure for determining the effect of testlet nonequivalence on the operating characteristics of a testlet-based computerized mastery test (CMT) is introduced. The procedure involves estimating...
China and India: economic performance, competition and cooperation: an update $

China and India chose similar economic development strategies in 1950 of near autarky, industrialization, and the dominance of the state in the economy. China came out of insulation and began reforming its economy in 1978. India’s hesitant and piecemeal reforms, initiated in the 1980s, became systemic and broader in 1991. Since 1980, China has grown at an average rate of around 10% per year and India at 6%, though both have experienced a slow down since 1997. China became the world’s fourth largest exporter in 2002. India’s exports also grew, though not as fast as China’s. Both are experiencing a protectionist backlash. The paper reviews the economic performance of the two countries, particularly of the macroeconomy and of the external sector. It argues against exaggerating the significance of the growing regional disparities within each country, it argues against exaggerating their significance. The two compete in world markets, and therefore, have a common interest in a liberal world trading system. Their cooperation in the Doha Round of trade negotiations would be mutually beneficial and would promote the interests of developing countries.
Endophthalmitis after Pars Plana Vitrectomy

In three cases of bacterial endophthalmitis following pars plana vitrectomy the important diagnostic findings included increased orbital pain, decreased visual acuity, and the presence of a hypopyon. Despite agressive antibiotic therapy, all three eyes became blind, and two progressed rapidly to phthisis.
Supercritical Fluid Technology in Textile Processing: An Overview

In light of environmental concerns, the textile industry has accelerated efforts to reduce or eliminate water consumption in all areas of yarn preparation, dyeing, and finishing. Supercritical fluid dyeing technology has the potential to accomplish this objective in many commercial textile applications around the world, both at present and in the future around the world. Increased interest in this technology has made a fundamental understanding of thermophysical (equilibrium solubility) and transport (kinetics) properties of such fluids and fluid mixtures necessary. Supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) is one of the most environmentally acceptable solvents in use today, and textile processes using it have many advantages when compared to conventional aqueous processes.1-4 Positive environmental effects range from drastically reduced water consumption to eliminating hazardous industrial effluent. Furthermore, economic benefits include increased productivity and energy savings. Successfully commercializing...
Neuropeptide modulation of apomorphine-induced stereotyped behavior

Abstract The nucleus accumbens contains many neuropeptides whose functions are presently unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which these neuropeptides act in conjuction with the mesolimbic system. Microinjections of cholecystokinin, neurotensin, met-enkephalin, somatostatin, bombesin, as well as glutamate and muscimol, were made into the medial nucleus accumbens after systematic injection of apomorphine. Cholecystokinin and neurotensin, in nanogram doses, potentiated apomorphine-induced stereotypy. Met-enkephalin reduced, whileb somatostatin and bombesin were without effect on, apomorphine-induced stereotypy. In addition, both glutamate and muscimol potentiated this effect. These results that several neuropeptides and amino acids in the nucleus accumbens to modulate apomorphine-induced stereotyped behaviors.
The Chip. A methodology for fast SPICE simulation of frequency synthesizers

Welcome to the Chip! Last year in the January issue of this magazine, the problem of simulating a sigma-delta modulator at the transistor level using SPICE was discussed and a simulation flow presented that could speed up simulation time significantly while keeping the accuracy almost intact. Transistor-level simulation is a must for optimizing the design at the final stages. In this column, we discuss a flow for the fast simulation of phase-lock loops, another widely used mixed-signal feedback system where transistor-level simulation is prohibitive. in the article, we discuss a mixed-mode methodology that uses macromodels for the digital parts while keeping the critical analog parts at the transistor level. We show that the method is effective and maintains very high accuracy.
Practical fin shapes for surface-tension-drained condensation

This paper introduces a new family of high-performance fin profiles for surface-tension-drained condensation. Previously described profiles for this situation have been defined in terms of the fin curvature and arc length. The existing profiles are generally not suitable for commercial manufacture. The fin profiles presented in this paper are conveniently defined by the fin tip radius, the fin height, and the fin base thickness. Consequently, the designer may easily specify a fin shape with parameters that are compatible with those used by the manufacturing industry. The heat transfer performance of the new profiles provides an improvement over existing, commercial fin shapes. An analysis is presented to show the R-11 condensation performance of the new profiles as a function of the geometric variables. A recommended design practice for fins for surface-tension-drained condensation is given also.
Stripe Domain Light Deflection For Intersatellite Communications

Stripe domain garnet light deflectors are being developed to have the increased deflection efficiency needed to perform the optical beam steering function in a laser crosslink, intersatellite communication system. Two approaches are being taken to develop a deflector with a goal of greater then 50% efficiency at 0.8 and 1.06 μm wavelengths. These are development of garnet materials with increased magneto-optic performance and operation of the garnet element in a Fabry-Perot etalon. Modeling of etalon behavior and anticipated garnet material properties indicates efficiencies up to 90% are possible at 1.06 μm and up to 60% at 0.8 μm. At our present stage of material development and without an etalon, efficiencies of 11% at 0.8 μm wavelength and 14% at 1.06 μm have been achieved.
Low-Thrust Orbit Transfer Guidance Using an Inverse Dynamics Approach

V. Summary and Conclusions In this Note, the equations of motion are derived for the slewing active beam equipped with multitudes of piezoelectric sensors and a:tuators by means of the extended Hamilton principle. Based on these equations of motion, a decentralized control technique is proposed to meet the mission requirement. Hence, controls are divided into the slewing control and the vibration suppression controls. The sliding-mode control is proposed as the slewing control and the modal-space positive position feedback plus disturbancecounteracting control is developed for the suppression of vibrations. The developed control techniques are applied to the testbed and verified by the experiment. The experimental results show that the decentralized controls performed satisfactorily but high-frequency vibrations remained uncontrolled. In order to maintain the control authority over these higher modes, more actuators and sensors are needed. In addition, more powerful piezoelectric actuators are desirable.
Snowflake White and Politically Right: Photographic Framing in News Media Coverage of Stem Cell Research

Although framing studies traditionally focus on text, this study examines news photographs of stem cell research. Based on the ability of the media to set the public agenda, and given the fact that stem cell research provokes such vehement debate, it is crucial that we have a clear understanding of how the media frame stem cell research. For both newspapers studied, the science and politics frames clearly dominated. Based on key findings, this research indicates that in the news photos analyzed, the media de-emphasized the scientific perspective in favor of focusing on the political strategy and the ethical reservations rising out of one particular political and religious perspective.
Ropivacaine-induced seizure after extradural anaesthesia

Ropivacaine is considered safer than bupivacaine, on the basis of experimental and human data that indicate a lower systemic toxicity. Here we report the occurrence of a single seizure after i.v. administration of ropivacaine 120 mg intended for extradural block in a patient having postpartum, tubal ligation. The only prodromal symptom was nervousness, and the only cardiovascular manifestation was sinus tachycardia. Systemic toxicity, although less than that expected with bupivacaine, can occur with ropivacaine.
Fixation effects on synaptic vesicle density in neuromuscular junctions of young and old mice

It was previously reported that in soleus neuromuscular junctions of old mice, synaptic vesicle density was decreased while transmitter release was increased (compared to results in young mice). In the present study, two hypotheses that might resolve this disparity were tested. The first was that the density of readily releasable vesicles close to the preterminal membrane, rather than those in the whole terminal, would correlate with the physiological results. This hypothesis was excluded because both vesicle density in the 200 nm region just within the presynaptic terminal membrane, and total vesicle density were similarly reduced in old soleus junctions. The second hypothesis was that more transmitter was released during fixation at old than at young neuromuscular junctions, leading to an age-related depletion of vesicles. This was tested by counting vesicles in muscles fixed after transmission block was attained in Krebs solution lacking calcium, and by direct recording of quantal release during conventional fixation. This second hypothesis was excluded: in neuromuscular junctions exposed to zero-calcium Krebs solution before fixation, the age-related reduction in vesicle density was still present, and intracellular recording revealed only a slight increase in quantal transmitter release during fixation. Therefore, as discussed, other mechanisms must be considered.
Magma chamber dynamics recorded by oscillatory zoning in pyroxene and olivine phenocrysts in basaltic lunar meteorite Northwest Africa 032

Oscillatory zoning in silicate minerals, especially plagioclase, is a common feature found in volcanic rocks from various terrestrial tectonic settings, but is nearly absent in the lunar environment. Here we report backscattered electron images, quantitative wavelength-dispersive spectrometry (WDS) analyses, and qualitative WDS elemental X-ray maps that reveal oscillatory zoning of Mg, Ca, Fe, Ti, Al, Cr, and Mn in euhedral pyroxene phenocrysts, and faint oscillatory zoning of P in olivine phenocrysts in basaltic lunar meteorite Northwest Africa (NWA) 032. This is only the third known occurrence of oscillatory zoning in lunar silicate minerals. Zoning bands in pyroxene range from ~3–5 μm up to ~60 μm in width, but are typically ~10–20 μm in width. Oscillatory bands are variable in width over short distances, often within a single grain. Most oscillatory bands preserve a euhedral form and have sharp edges; however some bands have jagged or uneven edges indicative of resorption surfaces. The short-scale oscillatory nature of the zoning in pyroxene is overprinted on longer-scale core to rim normal magmatic zoning from pigeonite to augite compositions. Oscillatory zoning of P in olivine is faint and only resolvable with high beam current (400 nA) mapping. Bands of higher P are typically only a few micrometers in width, and although they preserve a euhedral form, they are not traceable around the full circumference of a grain and have variable spacing. Resorption surfaces, longer-scale normal magmatic zoning, and relatively thick oscillatory bands are indicative of the formation of these chemical oscillations as a result of variable magma composition. Pyroxenes likely experienced variable liquid compositions as a result of convection in a differentially cooling, chemically stratified magma chamber. Periodic replenishments of progressively decreasing volumes of primitive parental magma are also permissible and may have enabled convection. In a convection model, Mg-rich bands reflect growth in the lower, warmer, more crystal-poor regions of the chamber, whereas Ca-Al-Ti-Cr-rich bands reflect growth in the upper, cooler, more crystal-rich regions of the chamber. The limited duration of crystallization in the magma chamber and the slow diffusion rates of multiple elements among multiple crystallographic sites in clinopyroxene, combined with fast cooling upon eruption, act to preserve the oscillatory zoning. Oscillatory zoning of P in olivine is a product of solute trapping resulting from the slow diffusion of P in silicate melts and minerals, and relatively fast magma cooling rates that may be related to magma chamber convection. Differential cooling of the chamber and the fast cooling rates within the chamber are likely a product of the thermal state of the lunar crust at 2.93 Ga when NWA 032, which is currently the youngest dated lunar igneous rock, erupted onto the surface of the Moon.
A nonlinear bilevel model for analysis of electric utility demand-side planning issues

An application of bilevel programming in the electric utility industry is presented. The model is nonlinear and is used to analyze various economic issues that affect electric utility planning. The electric utility at the upper level of the model seeks to minimize costs or maximize benefits while controlling electric rates and subsidizing energy conservation programs. Customers at the lower level attempt to maximize their net benefit by consuming electricity and investing in conservation. This model considers factors such as free riders and the rebound effect which affect the net benefits of utility resource plans but are ignored by most planning models. The model's solutions shed light on utility issues including whether there can be a practical difference between various objectives, including minimizing cost (“least cost” planning) and maximizing net social welfare (“value based” planning).
Subacute effusive-constrictive pericarditis: Diagnosis by serial echocardiography

We report the case of a 30-year-old man with acute pericarditis in whom effusive-constrictive physiology developed rapidly in less than 2 weeks. Serial echocardiography demonstrated a dramatic change in the appearance of the pericardial effusion and the pericardial space. The patient underwent pericardiectomy with symptom relief. The findings at operation included a markedly thickened and inflamed pericardium. The case highlights the role of echocardiography in the evaluation of patients with pericardial disease and the echocardiographic features that prompted early surgical intervention.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Behaviors of California Community College Students

Abstract Objective: To explore the sexual and reproductive health behaviors of students from 13 community college campuses in California. Participants: Heterosexual college students, ages 18 to 24, who have had sexual intercourse (N = 4,487). Methods: The American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA) survey was administered in class to randomly selected classrooms at 12 institutions and electronically to randomly selected e-mails of students at 1 institution from March through April 2007. Results: This sample of community college students reported higher rates of risky sexual behaviors, unintended pregnancy, emergency contraception, and sexually transmitted diseases, and lower rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing, than the overall ACHA-NCHA reference group. Those who had been tested for HIV reported more sexual partners, and lower rates of condom use. Conclusions: The data provide justification for broader educational programs and access to family plan...
Transient decrease in nociceptor GRK2 expression produces long–term enhancement in inflammatory pain

Abstract In heterozygous mice, attenuation of G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) level in nociceptors is associated with enhanced and prolonged inflammatory hyperalgesia. To further elucidate the role of GRK2 in nociceptor function we reversibly decreased GRK2 expression using intrathecal antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS-ODN). GRK2 AS-ODN administration led to an enhanced and prolonged hyperalgesia induced by prostaglandin E 2 , epinephrine and carrageenan. Moreover, this effect persisted unattenuated 2 weeks after the last dose of antisense, well after GRK2 protein recovered, suggesting that transient attenuation of GRK2 produced neuroplastic changes in nociceptor function. Unlike hyperalgesic priming induced by transient activation of protein kinase C epsilon (PKCe), ( Aley et al., 2000; Parada et al., 2003b ), the enhanced and prolonged hyperalgesia following attenuation of GRK2 is PKCe- and cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein (CPEB)-independent and is protein kinase A (PKA)- and Src tyrosine kinase (Src)-dependent. Finally, rats treated with GRK2 AS-ODN exhibited enhanced and prolonged hyperalgesia induced by direct activation of second messengers, adenyl cyclase, Epac or PKA, suggesting changes downstream of G-protein-coupled receptors. Because inflammation can produce a decrease in GRK2, such a mechanism could help explain a predilection to develop chronic pain, after resolution of acute inflammation.
Forever Mad: Essence and Attributes

Mutual assured destruction has been the victim of its own successes. Understood in the context of changed technology and plausible scenarios, MAD contributes important insights pertinent to the issues of crisis and arms race stability. Adaptation to new environmental conditions will guarantee the survival of MAD; that adaptation will require some reconsideration of it as a sufficient condition, as well as a necessary one, for strategic stability.
Adrenocorticotropin 45. Revised amino acid sequences for sheep and bovine hormones.

Abstract The amino acid sequences for the residues 25–32 in the structures of ovine and bovine ACTH molecules have been re-examined. The revised sequences are shown in Figure 2.
Hog thyrocalcitonin in the dog: urinary calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and sodium responses.

The acute effects of hog thyro-calcitonin (TC) on renal electrolyte excretion have been studied in the dog. Initial studies had shown that TC, when injected intravenously into the intact dog, produced a marked hyperphos-phaturic response which was eliminated by prior thyroparathyroidectomy. More rigorous clearance studies, using a commercial TC preparation (100–200 MRC mU/mg) injected intravenously into a calcium-infused dog, revealed no significant changes in urinary calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, or sodium excretion in the 1-hr period following the injection. Under identical conditions parathyroid extract (20 U/kg, iv) caused a significant hyperphosphaturia within 20 min. When TC was infused (50–100 MRC mU/kg/min for 10 min) unilaterally into the left renal artery, there was no difference between the electrolyte excretion of the control (right) and treated (left) kidneys. It is concluded that hog TC, at the doses tested, had no direct acute effects on the urinary excretion of calcium, phosphorus, magne...
Fluorescence Spectroscopy Approaches for the Development of a Real-Time Organophosphate Detection System Using an Enzymatic Sensor

Organophosphates are organic substances that contain a phosphoryl or a thiophosphoryl bond. They are mainly used around the world as pesticides, but can also be used as chemical warfare agents. Their detection is normally entrusted to techniques like GC- and LC-MS that, although sensitive, do not allow their identification on site and in real time. We have approached their identification by exploiting the high-affinity binding of these compounds with the esterase 2 from Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius. Using an in silico analysis to evaluate the binding affinities of the enzyme with organophosphate inhibitors, like paraoxon, and other organophosphate compounds, like parathion, chlorpyriphos, and other organophosphate thio-derivatives, we have designed fluorescence spectroscopy experiments to study the quenching of the tryptophan residues after esterase 2 binding with the organophosphate pesticides. The changes in the fluorescence signals permitted an immediate and quantitative identification of these compounds from nano- to picomolar concentrations. A fluorescence based polarity-sensitive probe (ANS) was also employed as a means to understand the extent of the interactions involved, as well as to explore other ways to detect organophosphate pesticides. Finally, we designed a framework for the development of a biosensor that exploits fluorescence technology in combination with a sensitive and very stable bio-receptor.
ULTRAFINE OXIDE POWDERS PRODUCED BY RAPID THERMAL DECOMPOSITION OF PRECURSORS IN SOLUTION

ABSTRACT The Rapid Thermal Decomposition of precursors in Solution (RTDS) process is described as an approach to nanoscale particle production. The RTDS method involves a brief (< 2 sec) exposure of an aqueous solution containing dissolved metal oxide precursors to hydrothermal conditions amenable to particle nucleation and growth. Particle growth is terminated by passing the solution through a pressure restrictor and into a cooled collection region. Initial RTDS results involving the production of iron, titanium, and zirconium oxide powders from aqueous solutions are described. Powders generated were characterized using transmission electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, BET surface area analysis, and Mossbauer spectroscopy. Iron oxide (hematite phase) having crystallite sizes ranging from a few nanometers to tens-of-nanometers was produced (rom 0.1 M Fe(NO3) 3 and Fe(NH4)(SO4) 2 solutions. Crystallite size in the hematite powders was found to be dependent on the temperature to which the solution...
Homopolymerization and copolymerization of 1-phenylsulfonylbicyclobutane

1-Phenylsulfonylbicyclobutane (SBB) undergoes free radical homopolymerization to give soluble homopolymers, but attempted anionic homopolymerizations did not succeed. With free radical initiators, SBB copolymerizes with p-methoxystyrene, p-methylstyrene, methyl methacrylate, acrylonitrile and 1-cyanobicyclobutane to yield novel copolymers. The reactivity of SBB toward vinyl monomers is lower than that of 1-cyanobicyclobutane.
Autofocus Of Sar Imagery Degraded By Ionospheric-Induced Phase Errors

It has been suggested that synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images obtained from platforms such as SEASAT are subject to potential degradation by ionospheric-induced phase errors. This premise is based upon data from various satellite experiments that indicate large levels of phase scintillation in auroral zone data. Current models for phase errors induced by the ionosphere suggest that the phase error power spectrum is power law. This implies that the resulting phase errors contain significant components up to the Nyquist limit. Traditional sub-aperture based autofocus techniques, designed to correct uncompensated platform motion errors, are inadequate due to their inability to estimate higher order error terms. A new non-parametric phase error correction scheme developed at Sandia National Laboratories, however, has been demonstrated to remove phase errors of arbitrary structure. Consequently, our new algorithm is a viable candidate for correcting ionospheric phase errors. In this paper we show examples of SAR images degraded by simulated ionospheric phase errors. These images demonstrate that such errors cause smearing with complicated sidelobe structure. Restoration of these images via the new algorithm illustrates its superiority to classical sub-aperture based autofocus techniques.
Saving, investment, growth and the cost of financial repression

Abstract This paper presents a quantitative estimate of the cost of financial repression in developing countries. Here, financial repression is interpreted as the technique of holding institutional interest rates (particularly deposit rates of interest) below their market equilibrium levels. For a sample of developing countries, saving is found to be affected positively by the real deposit rate of interest, as is real money demand, where money is defined broadly to include savings and time deposits. Under disequilibrium interest rate conditions, higher saving which raises real money demand increases pari passu the real supply of credit. Credit availability is an important determinant not only of new investment but also of capacity utilization of the entire capital stock. Hence, the growth rate is itself affected positively by the real deposit rate of interest through two channels – first, the volume of saving and investment and, second, capacity utilization of the entire capital stock, i.e. the measured incremental capital/output ratio. Estimates of saving and growth functions lead to the conclusion that the cost of financial repression appears to be around half a percetage point in economic growth foregone for every one percentage point by which the real deposit rate of interest is set below its market equilibrium rate.
Sex Differences in the Maturation of Sleep/Wake Patterns in High Risk for SIDS Infants

Male and female high risk for SIDS infants were compared with a group of rigorously matched controls in sleep/wake variables during the peak period for SIDS, i.e., 2-4 mos. Continuous 24-72 hr. in-hospital recordings yielded data based on 3,792 hrs. of electrophysiological activity. The data show that risk male infants fail to demonstrate an increase in wakefulness with age and reveal a lag in the maturation of REM sleep compared to controls and female risk infants during the critical age for SIDS. Significant sex differences within the first six months of life are of particular importance because of the consistently reported higher incidence of SIDS in males than females. An immature sleep/wake organization which occurs differentially in male high risk for SIDS infants suggests that a CNS functional disorder is present selectively in male infants as a precursor to SIDS. The greater susceptibility of male infants to SIDS emphasizes the importance of these data based on unique long-term recordings.
Marc Bloch, Sociology and Geography: Encountering Changing Disciplines

List of tables Acknowledgments A note on translation List of abbreviations Introduction 1. Marc Bloch and the 'Universite' Part I. Sociology, Geography and History during Marc Bloch's Years of Apprenticeship: 2. Marc Bloch's training as a normalien 3. History under attack 4. The quest for identity in Vidalian geography 5. From the Fondation Thiers to the doctorate: Marc Bloch's emerging perspective Part II. Marc Bloch as a Critic and Practitioner of Sociology and Geography: 6. The University of Strasbourg as a center of disciplinary change 7. Kings, serfs and the sociological method 8. Reflections on the geographical approach and on the agrarian regime 9. An expanding view: Marc Bloch's later projects 10. Towards a reworking of the historiography of Marc Bloch Notes Index of names Subject index.
From Primitive Church to Civil Religion: The Millennial Odyssey of Alexander Campbell

'HEN the American Republic became "the nation with the soul of a church"' in the thinking of Alexander Campbell, it did so because the Republic had outstripped his restored, primitive church in securing the pluralistic unity which was indispensable, Campbell thought, to the dawning of the millennial age. To be sure, from the early years of his movement2 until almost the end of his life, this venerable patriarch of the Disciples of Christ3 eagerly anticipated a millennium of earthly bliss when justice would triumph, tyranny would be abolished, and the Christian faith would hold sway over the world.4 However, until at least the mid-1830s, Campbell differed from the popular, Protestant millennial vision5 in one critical respect. The more prevalent vision made the
Distribution and excretion of pyridine-2-aldoxime methiodide (PAM); atropine and PAM in sarin poisoning

Abstract Distribution and excretion of methyl-C14 tagged PAM (pyridine-2-aldoxime methiodide) was studied in mice and dogs. The results show that, after intravenous injection, PAM penetrates readily into the liver and kidney of mice and into most soft tissues of the dog. No isotope was found in the brain of the mice, and only trace amounts of isotope were found in the brain of 1 dog. Isotope is retained in the tissues except for brain after it has been cleared from the blood. Approximately 50% of the isotope was recovered in the urine in 90 minutes. In a single human, 65% of intravenously injected isotope was recovered in 2 hours. Spontaneous motor activity of mice is decreased following small doses of sarin. This effect of sarin is antagonized by atropine but not by methylatropine or PAM. The mortality in mice injected intraperitoneally with 2 LD50's of sarin was not influenced by prophylactic intraperitoneal injection of atropine, methylatropine, PAM, or methylatropine plus PAM. However, atropine plus PAM produced complete protection against the above dose of sarin. The effect of atropine when used in combined atropine-oxime therapy of anticholinesterase poisoning is ascribed to its ability to protect the central nervous system from effects of the antiesterase.
Caveats and considerations for performing pancreas-specific gene manipulations in the mouse.

Conditional gene targeting using the Cre/loxP strategy has proven to be very useful for studies of glucose homeostasis, tissue function and dysfunction in diabetes, and pancreas development. However, use of this strategy over the past decade has revealed a variety of experimental caveats, many of which are a direct consequence of the procedures used to generate Cre-driver lines. We discuss frequently encountered experimental artefacts, the advantages of using bacterial artificial chromosome-derived transgenes or performing a Cre knockin for improving the specificity of expression, and systems for regulating Cre activity. In addition, recent studies indicate that high amounts of Cre in the pancreatic β-cell may cause glucose intolerance and impaired insulin secretion. However, these findings, while serving as a reminder for simple experimental controls, are unlikely to diminish utilization of this very powerful and useful technology.
Epidermal growth factor stimulates guanine nucleotide binding activity and phosphorylation of ras oncogene proteins

Several human tumour cell lines contain genes that can transform NIH 3T3 cells into malignant cells. Certain genes have been classified as members of the ras oncogene family, namely, Ha-ras, Ki-ras or N-ras1–3. The proteins encoded by the ras family are generally small (Ha-ras, for example, encodes a protein of molecular weight 21,000 named p21), and are associated with the inner surface of the plasma membrane. The only known biochemical property common to all forms of the ras proteins is the ability to bind guanine nucleotides, a property which may be closely related to the transforming ability of ras proteins4,5. A GTP-dependent, apparent autophosphorylation (on threonine 59) activity has been identified only in the case of the v-Ha-ras protein6. Although the role of these biochemical activities in the transformation process remains unclear, we have initiated studies to determine the possible biochemical interactions of ras proteins with other membrane components. We report here the evidence that epidermal growth factor enhances the guanine nucleotide binding activity of activated c-Ha-ras or v-Ha-ras p21, and phosphorylation of v-Ha-ras p21, suggesting that some mitogenic growth factors may regulate those activities.