cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Calcium-induced decrease in membrane fluidity of sea urchin egg cortex after fertilization

Fertilization of the sea urchin egg is a dramatic example of cell activation resulting from the interaction of an external stimulus, the spermatozoon, with the cell surface1. Growing and quiescent cells may have different membrane states2. Here we report membrane fluidity measurements on a surface membrane fraction, the cortex, isolated from unfertilized and fertilized eggs. The fluidity of the fertilized egg cortex, measured by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy using 5-doxy 1st ear at e as a probe, is less than that of the unfertilized cortex. In the intact egg the intracellular Ca2+ concentration increases after fertilization and this transient rise seems to be localized in the cortex3. The addition of Ca2+ to the cortex fraction isolated from unfertilized eggs triggers a fluidity decrease in vitro. The fluidity decrease seems to represent a Ca2+-induced change in membrane structure rather than a direct interaction of Ca2+ with phospholipid headgroups.
A study of Baroclinic Energy Sources for Large-Scale Atmospheric Normal Modes

Abstract Observed atmospheric energy peaks in a three-dimensional (3-D) spectral domain are compared with energy peaks predicted by the theory of atmospheric baroclinic instability. The 3-D scale index for global-scale atmospheric motions is represented by the eigenfrequencies of 3-D normal mode functions on a sphere, based on the fact that the eigenfrequencies of Rossby modes are related to the 3-D scale of the waves through the intrinsic wave dispersion relation. When the observed atmospheric energy level is expressed as a function of the eigenfrequencies, a distinct spectral peak appears in the intermediate value of the eigenfrequencies of Rossby modes. The energy spectrum of atmospheric barotropic components clearly separates a −5/3 power law in the high-frequency range, relative to the energy peak, and a 3 power law in the low-frequency range. The peak may describe a certain energy source for large-scale atmospheric motions. For zonal wavenumber 6, we find that the observed spectral peak coincides wi...
17α-(Haloacetamidoalkyl)estradiols Alkylate the Human Estrogen Receptor at Cysteine Residues 417 and 530†

Results obtained in a previous study suggested that cysteine residues in the estrogen receptor were covalent attachment sites for four 17 alpha-(haloacetamidoalkyl) estradiols (halo, bromo or iodo; alkyl, methyl, ethyl, or propyl). To identify the putative concerned cysteines, we expressed wild-type and various cysteine --> alanine mutants of the human estrogen receptor in COS cells and determined their ability to be alkylated by the four electrophiles. The quadruple mutant, in which all the cysteines (residues 381, 417, 447, and 530) of the hormone-binding site were changed to alanines, showed very little electrophile labeling, whereas the four single mutants (C381A, C417A, C447A, and C530A) were alkylated as efficiently as the wild-type receptor. These results (i) demonstrate that cysteine residues were covalent attachment sites of electrophiles and (ii) indicate that more than one cysteine residue could be alkylated. Analysis of three double mutants (C381A/C530A, C417A/C530A, and C447A/C530A) provided strong evidence that only C417 and C530 were sites for electrophile covalent attachment. Since C530 was also alkylated by tamoxifen aziridine, a nonsteroidal affinity-labeling agent, we propose a selective mode of superimposition of tamoxifen-class antiestrogens with estradiol, which could account for the relative positioning of the two types of ligands in the receptor hormone-binding pocket. According to the structure of the hormone-binding pocket of nuclear receptors, as inferred from crystallographic studies and general sequence alignment of hormone-binding domains, C417 and C530 appear to be (1) located at the extreme border or in structural elements involved in delineation of the hormone-binding pocket, (2) spatially in close proximity to each other, and (3) in positions highly homologous to those of glucocorticoid receptor sites alkylated by affinity- and photoaffinity-labeling agents, respectively.
Genetic analysis of bone quality traits and growth in a random mating broiler population

We report the genetic relationship between growth and bone quality traits in a random mating broiler control population. Traits studied were growth rates from week 0 to 4 [body weight gain (BWG) 0 to 4], from week 0 to 6 (BWG 0 to 6), and residual feed intake (RFI) from week 5 to 6 (RFI 5 to 6). Bone quality traits were obtained at 6 weeks of age. These traits were shank weight (SW), shank length (SL), shank diameter (SDIAM), tibia weight (TW), tibia length (TL), and tibia diameter (TDIAM). Likewise, tibia was used to obtain the tibia density (TDEN), tibia breaking strength (TBS), tibia mineral density (TMD), tibia mineral content (TMC), and tibia ash content (TAC). At the phenotypic level, growth traits were positively correlated with most of the bone quality traits except with TDEN and TAC which tended to show unfavorable associations (-0.04 to -0.31). Heritability of bone quality traits ranged from 0.08 to 0.54. The additive genetic associations of growth traits with weight, length, and diameter of shank and tibia were positive (0.37 to 0.80). A similar pattern was observed with TMD and TMC (0.06 to 0.65). In contrast, growth traits showed unfavorable genetic associations with TDEN, TBS, and TAC (-0.03 to -0.18). It was concluded that bone quality traits have an additive genetic background and they can be improved by means of genetic tools. It appears that selection for growth is negatively correlated with some traits involved in the integrity, health, and maturity of leg bones.
Generation and search of clustered files

A classified, or clustered file is one where related, or similar records are grouped into classes, or clusters of items in such a way that all items within a cluster are jointly retrievable. Clustered files are easily adapted to broad and narrow search strategies, and simple file updating methods are available. An inexpensive file clustering method applicable to large files is given together with appropriate file search methods. An abstract model is then introduced to predict the retrieval effectiveness of various search methods in a clustered file environment. Experimental evidence is included to test the versatility of the model and to demonstrate the role of various parameters in the cluster search process.
Multi-party competition with exit: A comment on Duverger's Law

Contrary to Duverger's Law, there exist multi-party systems in conjunction with simple majority single-ballot systems. At least three exceptions exist to this “law”. Rae (1971) and Riker (1976; 1982) offer explanations for two of the most prominent exceptions, i.e. Canada and India. I also discuss another exception, Great Britain. In this paper, I use a simple one-dimensional spatial model to show that a multi-party system can be supported under a simple majority single-ballot system. This explanation depends on the way political parties exit the system. If parties decide sequentially whether or not to exit, a multi-party system can not be maintained. If political parties make this decision simultaneously, a multi-party system may be able to sustain itself.
Vagal afferents from the uterus and cervix provide direct connections to the brainstem

Previous anatomical studies demonstrated vagal innervation to the ovary and distal colon and suggested the vagus nerve has uterine inputs. Recent behavioral and physiological evidence indicated that the vagus nerves conduct sensory information from the uterus to the brainstem. The present study was undertaken to identify vagal sensory connections to the uterus. Retrograde tracers, Fluorogold and pseudorabies virus were injected into the uterus and cervix. DiI, an anterograde tracer, was injected into the nodose ganglia. Neurectomies involving the pelvic, hypogastric, ovarian and abdominal vagus nerves were performed, and then uterine whole-mounts examined for sensory nerves containing calcitonin gene-related peptide. Nodose ganglia and caudal brainstem sections were examined for the presence of estrogen receptor-containing neurons in "vagal locales." Labeling of uterine-related neurons in the nodose ganglia (Fluorogold and pseudorabies virus) and in the brainstem nuclei (pseudorabies virus) was obtained. DiI-labeled nerve fibers occurred near uterine horn and uterine cervical blood vessels, in the myometrium, and in paracervical ganglia. Rats with vagal, pelvic, hypogastric and ovarian neurectomies exhibited a marked decrease in calcitonin gene-related peptide-immunoreactive nerves in the uterus relative to rats with pelvic, hypogastric, and ovarian neurectomies with intact vagus nerves. Neurons in the nodose ganglia and nucleus tractus solitarius were immunoreactive for estrogen receptors. These results demonstrated: (1) the vagus nerves serve as connections between the uterus and CNS, (2) the nodose ganglia contain uterine-related vagal afferent neuron cell bodies, and (3) neurons in vagal locales contain estrogen receptors.
Metabolic Clearance and Secretion Rates of Gonadotropins at Different Stages of the Estrous Cycle in Ewes

Metabolic clearance rates (MCR) were determined in 5 ewes by injection of a priming dose and constant infusion of luteinizing hormone (LH)-125I, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)-131I and prolactin-125I for 120 min during the midluteal and follicular phases of the estrous cycle and on the day of estrus. Blood samples were collected at 10-min intervals during the period of infusion to quantify serum levels of gonadotropins. MCR (ml/min) was calculated as the ratio of immunoprecipitable radioiodinated hormone infused (counts infused/min) to immunoprecipitable radioiodinated hormone in the serum (cpm/ml) after equilibrium was obtained. Secretion rates (SR, ng/min) were calculated by multiplying MCR by endogenous gonadotropin concentration (ng/ml). Mean values obtained from the 5 samples collected during the last 50 min of infusion were used to calculate MCR and SR. The mass of radioiodinated hormone infused did not alter serum concentration of these gonadotropins. MCR for LH, FSH and prolactin were not sign...
A study of the out-of-plane performance of brick veneer wall systems in medium rise buildings under seismic loads

Abstract Brick veneer wall systems have been damaged under severe out-of-plane seismic and wind loads. Consequently, the out-of-plane behavior of these wall systems has been investigated under both static and dynamic loading, but with a focus on low-rise buildings. This paper investigates the out-of-plane seismic performance of these wall systems in medium-rise buildings. Current prescriptive code requirements for these systems are evaluated in typical medium-rise steel and concrete building frames. Analytical models of the building frames and the veneer wall systems are developed. These combined frame and wall system models are subjected to the design based and maximum considered earthquake levels of selected ground motions. A parametric study was conducted over the range of stiffness and strength of these systems encountered in common US construction practice. An incremental dynamic analysis was performed until the models became unstable. Using this approach, it was possible to identify the component of the system that would potentially lead to its “Failure” or “Collapse”. As a result of this analysis, it was concluded that the current prescriptive code requirements for masonry veneer wall systems are adequate for seismic loading in the critical out-of-plane direction. The analysis also found that the code provisions are quite conservative for flexible frames. As the frame flexibility decreased, the conservatism of the provisions also decreased, and were found to be much less conservative for the stiffest frame system investigated.
Detecting brain growth patterns in normal children using tensor-based morphometry

Previous magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based volumetric studies have shown age-related increases in the volume of total white matter and decreases in the volume of total gray matter of normal children. Recent adaptations of image analysis strategies enable the detection of human brain growth with improved spatial resolution. In this article, we further explore the spatio-temporal complexity of adolescent brain maturation with tensor-based morphometry. By utilizing a novel non-linear elastic intensity-based registration algorithm on the serial structural MRI scans of 13 healthy children, individual Jacobian growth maps are generated and then registered to a common anatomical space. Statistical analyses reveal significant tissue growth in cerebral white matter, contrasted with gray matter loss in parietal, temporal, and occipital lobe. In addition, a linear regression with age and gender suggests a slowing down of the growth rate in regions with the greatest white matter growth. We demonstrate that a tensor-based Jacobian map is a sensitive and reliable method to detect regional tissue changes during development.
Affective defense behavior elecited from the feline midbrain periaqueductal gray is regulated by μ and δ opioid receptors

Abstract The present study sought to identify specific opioid receptor subtypes involved in the modulation of affective defense behavior (AD) at the level of the midbrain periaqueductal gray (PAG). Cannula electrodes were utilized for eliciting AD from the PAG as well as for microinjecting μ, δ and κ agonists and antagonists into these sites. Following microinjections of morphiceptin, d -Pen2, d -Pen5 enkephalin (DPDPE), or U-488H into sites from which AD was elicited, threshold values were determined. The results indicated that morphiceptin and DPDPE significantly suppressed AD in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Pretreatment with μ and δ opioid antagonists, B-FNA and ICI 174, 864, completely blocked the suppressive effects of morphiceptin and DPDPE, respectively. Microinjections of morphiceptin and DPDPE failed to alter response thresholds for circling behavior also elicited from electrical stimulation of dorsal PAG. Administration of the selective κ agonist, U-488H, or vehicle alone, did not alter the threshold for AD. The results of this stud indicate that opioid peptides interact with μ and δ eceptors within the midbrain PAG to powerfully suppress AD.
What Will It Take to Get Therapies Approved for Type 1 Diabetes

The development of therapies for T1D has been neglected in favor of efforts in advancing therapies for the larger T2D population. Pharmaceutical companies have also been deterred by lack of clarity around the regulatory expectations for such therapies. The prospects for therapy for new-onset T1D have brightened in some respects because of convergence among regulators and clinical experts in views about how these therapies should be assessed. The most important consensus is that the primary efficacy end point for treatments directed at the underlying autoimmune cause of T1D should be endogenous insulin secretion, as reflected by standardized C-peptide measurements. Most T1D therapeutic development efforts are directed at new-onset disease, which represents a small proportion of the entire T1D population. A major deficiency in T1D therapeutic development is the lack of activity in advancing therapies for people with established T1D, a population that far outnumbers those with new-onset disease. Complete remission of new-onset or established T1D will almost certainly require a combination of two or more therapies to address the underlying cause of the disease and restore normal insulin function.
FMS scheduling and control: Learning to achieve multiple goals

Abstract This paper describes FMS-GDCA, a loosely coupled system using a machine learning paradigm known as goal-directed conceptual aggregation (GDCA) and simulation to address the problem of Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) scheduling for a given configuration and management goals. The main advantage of FMS-GDCA is that it provides a manufacturing manager with an extremely flexible and goal-seeking control mechanism that allows for a continuous improvement in decision outcomes. The manager can choose a goal or a combination of goals or a combination of goals or can prioritize the partial goals by assigning weights. Given the goals, FMS-GDCA attempts to achieve them to the best of its ability. If it cannot meet the goals due to its lack of knowledge, it will acquire the relevant knowledge from data and solve the problem. The results indicate that FMS-GDCA can consistently produce improved overall performance over the traditional scheduling techniques.
A three-stage partial scan design method to ease ATPG

A new three-stage process for partial scan design is presented. The first two stages focus on cyclebreaking, and on limiting the maximum length of consecutive self-loops, as proposed by previous researchers. For the third stage, combinational blocks and their effects on sequential test generation are evaluated using a graphtheoretic representation designated the circuit flow graph. Costs calculated from the circuit flow graph representation are then used to select additional scan flip-flops. Sequential test generation results show that our selection of scan flip-flops is generally smaller than that reported by earlier researchers, and leads to a comparable fault coverage and smaller test generation time.
Erratum to “Retention of mineral colloids in unsaturated porous media as related to their surface properties” [Colloids Surf. A 256 (2005) 207–216]

where !G(y) 132 is the Lewis acid/base interaction free energy (J); # is the water decay length of 0.6 × 10−9 m; R is the radius of the spherical colloid (m); y0 is the equilibrium distance of 0.157 × 10−9 m where physical contact occurs; y is the separation distance (m); $+ is the electron-acceptor parameter and $− is the electron-donor parameter of the Lewis acid/base component of the surface tension (J/m2), with subscripts denoting colloid, 1, a flat sediment or the liquid–gas interface, 2, in the medium of water, 3. Fig. 4 of the paper was based on the wrong equation and consequently incorrect. The correct Fig. 4 is reproduced here. Based on these interaction energy calculations, the colloid retention mechanism in our columns was likely due to physical restrictions and trapping caused by the air–water interface as the water content in the columns changed, rather than due to attachment to the solid–liquid interface as postulated in our original paper.
Characterization of the respiratory activity of mitochondria isolated from an insect cell line CP-1268 Laspeyresia pomonella

Mitochondria have been isolated from the codling mothLaspeyresia pomonella, CP-1268 cell line. The mitochondrial fraction was isolated from pooled 4 d, exponential growth phase, cultures. The mitochondria were determined to be intact based on the demonstration of respiratory control, the effects of 2,4 dinitrophenol and oligomycin on respiration, the inability to oxidize NADH, and the inability of cytochromec to enhance respiration. The isolated mitochondria were able to oxidize succinate, pyruvate, malate, α-ketoglutarate, and α-glycerophosphate efficiently. Of the substrates tested, the CP-1268 mitochondria oxidized succinate most efficiently. The respiratory control ratios ranged from a high of 4.6 for pyruvate to a low of 1.7 with α-glycerophosphate. These findings confirm that the mitochondria were tightly coupled. The data also confirm the presence of three sites of oxidative phosphorylation because NAD-linked substrates had ADP-to-O ratios approaching 3 and flavoprotein linked substrates had values approaching 2.
Double-layer structure of the mercury/solution interface with tetrahydrofuran and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran as solvents☆

Abstract Interfacial capacity data are presented for LiAsF6 and other 1:1 electrolyte solutions in tetrahydrofuran and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran at a mercury electrode. The capacity against electrode potential data show a deep diffuse layer minimum in the vicinity of the point of zero charge for solutions of moderate to high concentration as a result of strong ion pairing. It is shown that variation in the capacity at the diffuse layer minimum with electrolyte concentration can be explained by the formation of triple ions.
Women, Men and Trees: Gender, Power and Property in Forest and Agrarian Landscapes

Abstract This paper proposes a revision of the concept of property commonly associated with land in analyzing the gender dimensions of tree tenure. Unlike two-dimensional maps of land ownership, tree tenure is characterized by nested and overlapping rights, which are products of social and ecological diversity as well as the complex connections between various groups of people and resources. Such complexity implies that approaches to improving equity using concepts of property based on land may be too simplistic. Rather than incorportating both women and trees into existing property frameworks, we argue that a more appropriate approach would begin by recognizing legal and theoretical ways of looking at property that reflect the realities and aspirations of women and men as well as the complexity and diversity of rural landscapes. Through a selective review of the literature, particularly in Africa, and illustrative case studies based on our fieldwork, we explore the “gendered” nature of resource use and access with respect to trees and forests, and examine distinct strategies to address gender inequalities therein. A review of the theoretical and historical background of land tenure illustrates the limitations of “two-dimensional” maps associated with land tenure in delineating boundaries of nested bundles of rights and management of trees and forests by different actors. The introduction of gender adds another dimension to the analysis of the multidimensional niches in the rural landscape defined by space, time, specific plants, products, and uses. Gender is a complicating factor due to the unequal power relationships between men and women in most societies. These power relationships, however, are subject to change. Rather than adopting an artificial dichotomy between “haves” and “have nots” (usually linked with men and women, respectively, in discussions of land tenure), we argue that gendered domains in tree tenure may be both complementary and negotiable. If resource tenure regimes are negotiable, they can be affected by changes in power relations between men and women. This idea has important policy implications. In many discussions of tenure, rights are often assumed to be exogenous or externally determined. The negotiability of tenure rights gives policy makers and communities another lever with which to promote a more equitable distribution of rights to the management and use of natural resources.
Ergonomics - Future Perspectives

Ergonomics (a synonym for human factors engineering) has contributed significantly to fundamental effectiveness of people, but needs a new emphasis and wider applications in future. A basic distinction is drawn between the areas of application and the focus of ergonomists. Although applications have been relatively successful in the military and industrial fields, ergonomics should also be applied to consumer products, architecture, transportation and recreation. In future, the primary challenge will be to improve the "quality of life" by enhancing human satisfaction and allowing people to function at higher value levels. In work activities the basic task of ergonomics has been to simplify and standardise jobs, but future focus should be on enlargement and enrichment of jobs. Because of individual differences probably not all jobs could be made completely satisfactory to all workers. However, significant contributions could be made through continued efforts to “humanise” work activities. Opsomming Ergonomika ('n sinoniem vir "human factors engineering") het reeds heelwat bygedra tot die doeltreffende funksionering van die mens, maar nuwe gesigspunte en toepassingsvelde sal in die toekoms nodig wees. 'n Fundamentele onderskeid word getref tussen die gebiede van toepassing en die fokus van beoefenaars van die ergonomika. Hoewel toepassings in die militere en industriele sfere redelik suksesvol was, behoort ergonomiese beginsels ook op verbruikerswese, argitektuur, vervoer en ontspanning toegepas te word. Die grootste uitdaging in die toekoms sal egter wees om "lewenskwaliteit" te verbeter deur tevredenheid te verhoog en mense te help om doeltreffender te leef en in die proses hoer waardevlakke te handhaaf. In werksaktiwiteite was die hoofdoel tot dusver om werk te standaardiseer en te vereenvoudig, maar dit word al hoe noodsaakliker dat poste verruim en verryk moet word. Waarskynlik sal alle poste nie vir alle bekleers volkome bevredigend gemaak kan word nie, maar dit sou tog nuttig wees om heelwat meer aandag aan die "humanisering" van werksaktiwiteite te gee.
Hypothalamic dysfunction with polydactyly and hypoplastic nails

Attention to a careful diagnostic work-up should be given to patients with postaxial polydactyly or apparently isolated hypothalamic hamartomas. Early recognition of the condition is critical for management, particularly for anticipating and preventing endocrine emergencies. Conservative management of the hypothalamic hamartoma should be stressed. Finally, detailed genetic counseling should be provided to the famlly regarding autosomal-dominant inheritance as well as the wide range of interfamilial and intrafamilial variability.
LIBERATING EFFECTS OF GROUP PRESSURE.

In laboratory research, the effect of group pressure has most often been studied in its negative aspect; the conspiratorial group is shown to limit, constrain, and distort the individual's responses (Asch, 1951; Blake & Brehm, 19S4; Milgram, 1964). Edifying effects of the group, although acknowledged, have rarely been demonstrated with the clarity and force of its destructive potential. Particularly in those areas in which a morally relevant choice is at issue, experimentalists typically examine pressures that diminish the scope of individual action. They have neglected effects that enhance the individual's sense of worth, enlarge the possibilities for action, and help the subject resolve conflicting feelings in a direction congruent with his ideals and values. Although in everyday life occasions arise when conformity to group pressures is constructive, in the laboratory "thinking and investigation have concentrated almost obsessively on conformity in its most sterile forms [Asch, 1959]. "2
Automatically optimizing stereo camera system based on 3D cinematography principles

This paper proposes a novel algorithm for optimization of automatic stereoscopic camera parameters based on 3D cinematography principles that control disparity range, as well as the stereo window violation (SWV) and temporal continuity of the disparity (TCD). By following these principles, the user can input the arbitrary range of the disparity and assign the ratios of the disparity adjusting function in the proposed automatic optimizing algorithm. The system evaluates the disparity using the depth map of the scene and 3D cinematography principles automatically and outputs the inter-axial and convergence for stereoscopic camera control. The experimental results, including a user study, show that the proposed algorithm enhances the 3D effect. This algorithm provides stereoscopic camera parameters that can be helpful in creating comfortable and faster stereoscopic films.
AS/400 PowerPC compatible semi-custom technology

This paper describes the technology and semi-custom design aspects of the AS/400 PowerPC chip set. In order to meet the growing demand for AS/400 system performance, a 6 ns cycle time was specified. This requirement, coupled with the desire for a short development cycle, drove the chip team to choose a semi-custom design style utilizing a mature BICMOS technology. Three semi-custom chips and one ASIC were designed and packaged in a multi-chip, high performance package to form the processor engine. >
Renal Artery Stenosis: A Common, Treatable Cause of Renal Failure?

▪ Abstract Chronic azotemic renovascular disease is common in patients with atherosclerosis. Its prevalence appears to be increasing in the aging population. How often it is the primary cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is not yet certain. Some studies suggest that 10%–40% of elderly hypertensive patients with newly documented ESRD and no demonstrable primary renal disease have significant renal artery stenosis (RAS). Atherosclerotic vascular occlusive disease of the renal arteries does progress, but current rates of progression and occlusion are lower than those reported a decade ago. Methods of identifying patients whose renal function is at true risk from vascular occlusive disease and determining who will benefit from intervention remain elusive. The presence of RAS in an azotemic patient can be assessed with noninvasive and risk-free radiologic techniques, including Duplex doppler velicometry and magnetic resonance angiography. Functional tests that predict the change in renal function after re...
Broadband microwave dielectric measurements with optoelectronically generated picosecond transient radiation

Summary form only given. The coherent microwave transient spectroscopy (COMITS) technique and its application to the characterization of the complex dielectric properties of materials in the 15-140-GHz frequency range were discussed. The COMITS technique is based on freely propagating electromagnetic pulses radiated and received by broadband antennas integrated with high-speed optoelectronic devices. Ultrashort optical pulses are used to generate the picosecond-duration electrical pulses which drive the antennas and to sample the received waveforms photoconductively. The COMITS experimental setup has been used to characterize low-loss materials such as Teflon, and materials of interest to the digital electronics industry such as polyimide and ceramics. It has been extended to characterize the properties of thin polymer films and to explore the dispersion properties of novel photonic-band structure samples. A reflection-COMITS configuration has been developed to characterize lossy materials such as doped semiconductors. >
Cardioprotection of insulin-like growth factor-1 during reperfusion therapy: what is the underlying mechanism or mechanisms?

In the setting of acute myocardial infarction, reperfusion of ischemic myocardium carried out early after coronary occlusion can salvage reversibly injured, viable myocardium. Although still controversial, however, reperfusion itself may cause a population of reversibly injured cells to die, a phenomenon termed lethal reperfusion injury .1 A variety of pharmacological agents have been studied to limit ischemia/reperfusion injury as an adjunct to current reperfusion, and some beneficial effects have been demonstrated in experimental animal research, but their clinical applications have not been achieved.2–4 Article see p 327 Among the various agents claimed to have cardioprotective effects is insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which is a hormone produced primarily by the liver. Its molecular structure is similar to that of insulin. IGF-1 plays an important role in cellular survival and growth by binding to its specific receptor (IGF1R), which is present on many cell types, including cardiac cells. Activation of IGF1R, a receptor tyrosine kinase, has been demonstrated to attenuate both apoptotic and necrotic cell death induced by ischemia/reperfusion injury through stimulating both the intracellular phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling cascades.5 Buerke at al6 administered IGF-I 1 hour before ischemia in a murine model of 20 minutes of myocardial ischemia followed by 24 hours of reperfusion. IGF-I preserved ischemic/reperfused myocardium through inhibition of polymorphonuclear leukocyte-induced cardiac necrosis and inhibition of reperfusion-induced apoptosis of cardiac myocytes. Davani et al7 subjected isolated murine hearts to 20 minutes of global ischemia followed by 2 hours of reperfusion with either modified Kreb's solution alone or …
An improved model for the electromagnetic compatibility of all-dielectric self-supporting fiber-optic cable and high-voltage power lines

It has become common for utilities to locate optical-fiber communication systems on their transmission line towers. One type of cable used for this purpose is all-dielectric self-supporting (ADSS) cable, which is usually located below the phase conductors. Cables of this type have failed because of exposure to high electric fields. In this paper, a model is developed which can be used to establish the conditions for failure-free operation of ADSS cable.
Allele Frequency Distributions in Pooled DNA Samples: Applications to Mapping Complex Disease Genes

Genetic studies of complex hereditary disorders require for their mapping the determination of genotypes at several hundred polymorphic loci in several hundred families. Because only a minority of markers are expected to show linkage and association in family data, a simple screen of genetic markers to identify those showing linkage in pooled DNA samples can greatly facilitate gene identification. All studies involving pooled DNA samples require the comparison of allele frequencies in appropriate family samples and subsamples. We have tested the accuracy of allele frequency estimates, in various DNA samples, by pooling DNA from multiple individuals prior to PCR amplification. We have used the ABI 377 automated DNA sequencer and GENESCAN software for quantifying total amplification using a 58 fluorescently labeled forward PCR primer and relative peak heights to estimate allele frequencies in pooled DNA samples. In these studies, we have genotyped 11 microsatellite markers in two separate DNA pools, and an additional four markers in a third DNA pool, and compared the estimated allele frequencies with those determined by direct genotyping. In addition, we have evaluated whether pooled DNA samples can be used to accurately assess allele frequencies on transmitted and untransmitted chromosomes, in a collection of families for fine-structure gene mapping using allelic association. Our studies show that accurate, quantitative data on allele frequencies, suitable for identifying markers for complex disorders, can be identified from pooled DNA samples. This approach, being independent of the number of samples comprising a pool, promises to drastically reduce the labor and cost of genotyping in the initial identification of disease loci. Additional applications of DNA pooling are discussed. These developments suggest that new statistical methods for analyzing pooled DNA data are required.
Leptin attenuates cardiac apoptosis after chronic ischaemic injury

Aims We have previously shown that activation of leptin signalling in the heart reduces cardiac morbidity and mortality after myocardial infarction (MI). In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that leptin signalling limits cardiac apoptosis after MI through activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3 responsive anti-apoptotic genes, including B-cell lymphoma (bcl)-2 and survivin, that serve to downregulate the activity of caspase-3. Methods and results Hearts from C57BL/6J and three groups of leptin-deficient Ob/Ob mice (food-restricted, ad libitum , and leptin-repleted) were examined 4 weeks after permanent left coronary artery ligation or sham operation. Inflammatory and apoptotic cell number was determined in cardiac sections by immunostaining. Expression of cardiac bcl-2, survivin, and pro and active caspase-3 was determined and correlated with in vitro caspase-3 activity. In the absence of MI, both lean and obese leptin-deficient mice exhibited increased cardiac apoptosis compared with wild-type mice. After MI, the highest rates of apoptosis were seen in the infarcted tissue of lean and obese Ob/Ob mice. Further, leptin-deficient hearts, as well as hearts from wild-type mice treated with the STAT-3 inhibitor WP1066, exhibited blunted anti-apoptotic bcl-2 and survivin gene expression, and increased caspase-3 protein expression and activity. The increased caspase-3 activity and apoptosis in hearts of leptin-deficient mice after MI was significantly attenuated in Ob/Ob mice replete with leptin, reducing apoptosis to levels comparable to that observed in wild-type mice after MI. Conclusion These results demonstrate that intact leptin signalling post-MI acts through STAT-3 to increase anti-apoptotic bcl-2 and survivin gene expression and reduces caspase-3 activity, consistent with a cardioprotective role of leptin in the setting of chronic ischaemic injury.
The Origin of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

In the life history of any person, certain dates stand out with clarity. The most precise, of course, is the birth date. The estimated date of confinement is fairly accurate, and our predictions are helped greatly by modern sonography. Somewhat less precise a date is the last menstrual period, because there may be some confusion when spotting occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle. When conception is considered, dates and events are very imprecise: When exactly was the twinkle in Dad9s eye, when was there a special vacation, or when was there an extra-cold night? This date tends to be considerably less reliable.
Evaluating the Potential of VI-LST Triangle Model for Quantitative Estimation of Soil Moisture using Optical Imagery

This research evaluates the potential of the vegetation index (VI) - land surface (LST) triangle model for quantitative soil moisture study using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data in a semi-arid environment. The preliminary results indicate that the VI-LST triangle model has potential to be used for quantitative soil moisture estimation by optical imagery if combined with a reference soil moisture data. The Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer-Earth Observing System (AMSR-E) provides quantitative soil moisture estimation at 25 km spatial resolution. AMSR-E soil moisture information can be used in the VI-LST triangle model in conjunction with MODIS reflectance and thermal data to estimate soil moisture at the spatial resolution of MODIS (1 km).
Bertrand and Cournot competition under asymmetric costs: number of active rms in equilibrium

We compare the number of active firms, i.e. the number of firms producing a positive quantity, in equilibrium across four different models of oligopoly. The two main models are Cournot where quantity is the strategic variable and prices are determined by the market, and Bertrand where price is the strategic variable and demands are determined by the market. Within each of these models, we also have two types of goods: homogeneous and differentiated. We concentrate on the linear demand structure with constant marginal costs. We find that within a fixed class of good, either homogeneous or differentiated, Cournot always results in more active firms in equilibrium than Bertrand. Moreover, we find that within a fixed type of market, Cournot or Bertrand, differentiated goods result in more active firms in equilibrium than homogeneous goods. These results depend crucially on cost asymmetries between the firms, as with symmetric costs the results trivialize to all firms active or all firms inactive. Many studies have shown that consumer welfare is generally higher under Bertrand than Cournot. Our result can be seen as explaining this as consumers have more choice in Cournot markets at the expense of lower welfare, whereas they have less choice in Bertrand markets (as the number of firms in equilibrium is less) but they are compensated for this fact by reduced prices and therefore higher welfare.
Report of Committee on Glaciers, 1943–44

The personnel of the Committee is now as follows: Francois E. Matthes (Chairman), Senior Geologist, United States Geological Survey, Washington, D.C. William H. Hobbs, Professor Emeritus of Geology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan Colonel Lawrence Martin, Chief, Division of Maps, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C. James E. Church, President, International Commission of Snow and Glaciers, Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada Captain William Osgood Field, Jr., home address 18 West Twelfth Street, New York, New York Oliver Kehrlein, Chairman, Committee on Glacier Studies, Sierra Club, 1050 Mills Tower, San Francisco, California Kenneth N. Phillips, Associate Hydraulic Engineer, Water Resources Branch, United States Geological Survey, Chairman, Research Committee of the Mazamas, 606 Post-Office Building, Portland, Oregon William S. Cooper, Professor of Botany, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota Lieutenant Colonel Gerald Fitzgerald, Army Air Force, Headquarters Office, Washington, D.C. Laurence M. Gould, Professor of Geology, Carleton College, Northfield, Minnesota Arthur Johnson, Hydraulic Engineer, Conservation Branch, United States Geological Survey, 1105 Washington Building, Tacoma, Washington Major Weldon F. Heald, 3126 Rubio Canyon Road, Altadena, California Howard R. Stagner, Park Naturalist, Mount Rainier National Park, Longmire, Washington The two last named are new members. Major HEALD is one of the few mountaineers in this country who have first-hand acquaintance with the glaciers in the little-known part of the Cascade Range extending from Lake Chelan to the Canadian Boundary. He is equally familiar with the glaciers of Mount Baker, Mount Shukshan, and Mount Olympus, likewise with the glaciers of the Swiss Alps, and he has a broad fund of information on all the glacier-bearing mountains of Europe and Asia. At present he is engaged in special climatologic researches for the Quartermaster General's Corps.
ATP-induced helicase slippage reveals highly coordinated subunits

Most helicases — ubiquitous motor proteins that catalyse strand separation of base-paired nucleic acids — use ATP as an energy source. The hexameric helicase of T7 bacteriophage, the gene 4 protein, does not unwind DNA efficiently in the presence of ATP but instead uses deoxythymine triphosphate (dTTP). Using a single-molecule approach, Michelle Wang and colleagues show that with this helicase, ATP allows repeated slips during unwinding that prevent unwinding over any significant distance. This behaviour is not observed with dTTP. Using these two nucleotides, they show that the six subunits act together to coordinate nucleotide binding and hydrolysis in a way that promotes processive unwinding of the DNA. Helicases are vital enzymes that carry out strand separation of duplex nucleic acids during replication, repair and recombination1,2. Bacteriophage T7 gene product 4 is a model hexameric helicase that has been observed to use dTTP, but not ATP, to unwind double-stranded (ds)DNA as it translocates from 5′ to 3′ along single-stranded (ss)DNA2,3,4,5,6. Whether and how different subunits of the helicase coordinate their chemo-mechanical activities and DNA binding during translocation is still under debate1,7. Here we address this question using a single-molecule approach to monitor helicase unwinding. We found that T7 helicase does in fact unwind dsDNA in the presence of ATP and that the unwinding rate is even faster than that with dTTP. However, unwinding traces showed a remarkable sawtooth pattern where processive unwinding was repeatedly interrupted by sudden slippage events, ultimately preventing unwinding over a substantial distance. This behaviour was not observed with dTTP alone and was greatly reduced when ATP solution was supplemented with a small amount of dTTP. These findings presented an opportunity to use nucleotide mixtures to investigate helicase subunit coordination. We found that T7 helicase binds and hydrolyses ATP and dTTP by competitive kinetics such that the unwinding rate is dictated simply by their respective maximum rates Vmax, Michaelis constants KM and concentrations. In contrast, processivity does not follow a simple competitive behaviour and shows a cooperative dependence on nucleotide concentrations. This does not agree with an uncoordinated mechanism where each subunit functions independently, but supports a model where nearly all subunits coordinate their chemo-mechanical activities and DNA binding. Our data indicate that only one subunit at a time can accept a nucleotide while other subunits are nucleotide-ligated and thus they interact with the DNA to ensure processivity. Such subunit coordination may be general to many ring-shaped helicases and reveals a potential mechanism for regulation of DNA unwinding during replication.
Photoconductor‐based (direct) large‐area x‐ray imagers

— A brief overview of the present status of active-matrix flat-panel direct x-ray imagers (D-AMFPI) is given. The spatial resolutions of direct and indirect imagers are compared, and it is pointed out that the lack of light scattering greatly improves resolution. Furthermore, the resolution does not degrade as layers of the x-ray detector materials become thicker for better x-ray absorption at higher x-ray energies, opposite to that of indirect imagers. Different direct x-ray conversion materials are compared, how the physical properties influence the x-ray detection efficiency, and imager stability are discussed. Ghosting and image-lag properties are also weighted. A few x-ray-sensitive photoconductor materials produce very-high x-ray conversion efficiency, which could be advantageous for low-dose fluoroscopy to overcome the noise of the readout electronics. Last, but not least, the manufacturing advantage of the direct imagers is emphasized. The direct imagers do not need p-i-n photodiodes, so the a-Si TFT matrices for these arrays can be manufactured at any LCD manufacturing sites and not only at a few, very specialized companies where the p-layers for the photodiodes can be deposited.
Anticholinergic Use in Children and Adolescents After Initiation of Antipsychotic Therapy

Background:Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are thought to have a lower likelihood of inducing extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) than are first-generation antipsychotics (FGAs). Clinical observations suggest that younger patients may be more sensitive to SGA-associated EPS than are adults and require therapy with anticholinergic agents.Objective:To determine the proportion of patients 5–18 years of age who received anticholinergic therapy during the initial stages of antipsychotic treatment, as well as to compare anticholinergic utilization across patients receiving aripiprazole, risperidone, and quetiapine. SGAs previously identified as the most commonly prescribed at the academic institution studied.Methods:Patients 5–18 years of age who were initiating a course of an antipsychotic between January 1, 2005, and September 1, 2008, were identified in a retrospective review of prescription and medical records. Data on demographic characteristics, antipsychotic and anticholinergic utilization, indications...
Progress report on the small isochronous ring project at NSCL

The small Isochronous Ring (SIR), whose main objectives are experimental studies of space charge effects in the isochronous regime and validation of space charge codes, is under development at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) at Michigan State University (MSU). The ring is a small-scale experiment that simulates the dynamics of intense beams in large-scale accelerators. It will store hydrogen and deuterium ions at energies of approximately 20-30 keV for a few tens of turns. The low beam energy and the small scale of the experiment provide a unique opportunity to perform accurate experiments on space charge dominated beams that are difficult to conduct in large-scale accelerators because of power and timing limitations imposed on beam diagnostics. The paper reports the status of the project and describes the progress in the development of ring subsystems.