cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Newcastle disease virus administration to mice on the metabolism of cerebral biogenic amines, plasma corticosterone, and lymphocyte proliferation

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) administration to mice increased concentrations of plasma corticosterone, with a maximal effect at 8 h. This elevation of plasma corticosterone concentrations was not observed in hypophysectomized animals in which the completeness of the hypophysectomy was verified by functional tests. NDV administration consistently increased concentrations of free tryptophan in all brain regions examined (prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, and brain stem). It also caused an activation of cerebral catecholamine and indoleamine metabolism as determined by measurement of the amines and their catabolites. 3-Methoxy,4-hydroxyphenylethyleneglycol (MHPG), the major catabolite of norepinephrine (NE), homovanillic acid (HVA), a major catabolite of dopamine (DA), and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), the major catabolite of serotonin (5-HT), were all increased in both hypothalamus and brain stem. Ratios of catabolites to the parent amine, considered to be an index of utilization of the neurotransmitters, were increased for NE, DA, and 5-HT in the hypothalamus and for DA and 5-HT in the brain stem. This pattern of changes resembles that observed following stressors such as footshock or restraint. There were also significant increases of tryptophan, HVA, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), and 5-HIAA in hypophysectomized relative to sham-operated mice. The NDV treatment also increased thymus weights and markedly decreased the proliferative responses of isolated spleen cells to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, pokeweed mitogen, and Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide. These changes were not caused by increased circulating corticosterone because they were present at equal magnitude in hypophysectomized mice. Thymosin α1 concentrations in the plasma were not altered by NDV or hypophysectomy. These results indicate that administration of NDV to mice can initiate neurochemical and endocrine responses like those observed during stress and can also cause immunosuppression. They are thus consistent with the hypothesis that a virus can be a stressor.
Faxon LINX at Brandeis University Libraries: A User's Appraisal

The Brandeis serials collection of 3,550 periodicals and 1,950 annuals and irregulars, in two libraries, are maintained on Faxon's LINX online system. At a cost of $26,500 per year, Brandeis has been able to save resources and increase performance through the use of LINX. This article provides an evaluation of the system after one full year of use.
A simple laser guide to reduce the screening time during the insertion of dynamic hip screws

A simple laser pointer can be used to guide the radiographer to position the image intensifier during the insertion of a dynamic hip screw in the treatment of fractures of the trochanteric area of the proximal femur. This significantly reduces the screening time and, by implication, the amount of radiation for the theatre staff and patient.
A method for demonstrating the efficacy of interventions designed to limit infarct size following coronary occlusion: beneficial effect of hyaluronidase.

In order to measure the protective effect of interventions following coronary artery occlusions in dogs, the creatine kinase activity of myocardial tissue was assayed after 24 h and related to the myocardial blood flow of that tissue measured with 85Sr labelled microspheres injected 15 min after occlusion. This assay showed normal levels when flow exceeded 50 cm3.min-1.100 g-1. In myocardium with flow reduced to 0 to 15 cm3. min-1.100g-1, creatine kinase activity was 7.6 +/- 0.6 IU.mg-1 protein in control dogs and 13.1 +/- 1.8 IU.mg-1 protein (P less than 0.01) in dogs given 500 NF units.kg-1 of hyaluronidase 20 min after occlusion. Where myocardial blood flow was reduced to 16 to 50 cm3. min-1. 100g-1, creatine kinase activity was increased from 14.1 +/- 1.1 to 20.5 +/- 1.4 IU.mg-1 protein by hyaluronidase. This method therefore assesses ischaemic damage independent of electrophysiological measurements and confirms myocardial preservation by hyaluronidase.
URINARY 6β-HYDROXYCORTISOL IN ADRENOCORTICAL HYPERFUNCTION*†

Three patients with abnormal amounts of 6β-hydroxycortisol in the urine are presented. In 2 of these patients, adrenal hyperplasia was found at autopsy. The third patient had Cushing-like clinical symptoms, and an adrenal adenoma was found at operation; in this case, although the excretion of 6β-hydroxycortisol was elevated, the urinary alpha-ketolic steroid pattern was otherwise normal. Technics for the isolation of 6β-hydroxycortisol are described.
The electrical mobilities and scalar friction factors of modest-to-high aspect ratio particles in the transition regime

Abstract In this work, we compared measured electrical mobilities of spherical and non-spherical nanoparticles to the predictions of both transition regime and free molecular theories. Mobility measurements were performed using a differential mobility analyzer (DMA) with both air and carbon dioxide as background gases, at atmospheric pressure and room temperature. For all measurements, DMA operational settings were selected in an attempt to minimize particle alignment with the electric field or flow direction, such that particles traversed the DMA rotating close to randomly. The particles included gold nanospheres (diameters of 50 nm and 70 nm), polystyrene latex dimers (primary particle diameter of 116 nm), gold nanorods (mobility equivalent diameters of 40–70 nm; aspect ratio 1.8–14) and carbon nanotubes (mobility equivalent diameters of 48.3 nm –60.3 nm; aspect ratios 9.5–243). Our primary objective was to test the accuracy of a transition regime theory (Dahneke’s adjusted sphere model) for non-spherical particles; this theory suggests that electrical mobilities are dependent upon a particle Knudsen number, specifically defined as Kn=λπRH/PA, where λ is the background gas mean free path, RH is the particle’s hydrodynamic radius, and PA is its projected area. For this test, electrical mobilities were calculated from the dimensions of particles collected downstream of a DMA and observed via TEM, with the DMA operated with fixed voltage and sheath flowrate. Mobility calculations for each particle were used to reconstruct electrical mobility histograms, which we show are directly comparable to the DMA transfer function for the operating conditions selected. We further compared the mean electrical mobilities of electrical mobility ranked sub-populations to the transfer function weighted mean mobilities of “windows” smaller in width than the DMA transfer function. Through analysis we find that in the 0.7 3, but were systematically lower (by up to 50%) than measurements for 1
Controlled buckling of piezoelectric beams for direct energy harvesting from passing vehicles

A piezoelectric device is introduced and modeled to directly interact with the tires of passing vehicles and generate electrical power for roadside applications. Piezoelectric beams are vertically placed on the surface of the road to generate energy from the load of passing vehices. A metal cap is connected to the top end of the bimorphs. The vertical motion of the metal cap is limited by the containing fixture of the device. Tires of the passing vehicles pass over the metal cap and force the bimorph into buckling. The buckling of the piezoelectric beam generates significant amount of power. By controlling the extent of deformation of the beam we make sure that the beam is not damaged by the buckling. To this end, the amount of axial recession of the metal cap (equal to axial deformation of the beam) is precision controlled by the containing fixture. When the beam deflects it axially shrinks due to geometric nonlinearities. This lowers the metal cap. After a certain amount of deformation the metal cap rests on the containing fixture and the tire load is no more transmitted to the piezoelectric beam.In this paper the performance of the proposed energy harvesting device is analytically modeled. Geometric nonlinearities and piezoelectric couplings have been included in the model. The vibrations of the device are transient. Power is generated when the tire pushes down the metal cap and when the metal cap springs back after the tire has passed. The design criteria for the device are discussed. It is demonstrated that the device can be realized with commonly used piezoelectric patches and can generate hundreds of milliwatts from the moving traffic. The device is not prone to resonance and generates notable amounts of power from passing of each tire. It therefore can be used as a self-sufficient sensor for traffic control.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Is bioarchaeology a handmaiden to history? Developing a historical bioarchaeology

Abstract Bioarchaeologists researching historic period populations recognize that textual sources provide abundant information on ancient political, social, and economic contexts of the individuals they are investigating. These researchers however often treat these documents and inscriptions as truthful, legitimate historical narratives simply used for comparison with biological data. This case study from the Classical Near East demonstrates the utility of critically assessing textual data used in bioarchaeological research in addition to the applicability of bioarchaeology for answering research questions in Near Eastern archaeology. Multivariate assessment of non-specific indicators of stress and evidence of skeletal trauma identified homogeneous health and disease profiles among indigenous communities in provinces of Arabia and Palaestina Tertia in addition to higher trauma levels among pastoral nomadic samples. These results contrast with some forms of textual data from the region emphasizing the barbaric nature of local populations, perceptions that apparently did not influence their treatment by imperial administrators. Addressing why textual and biological data differ and including the physical, ideological, political, and cultural context of ancient writers, papyri, inscriptions, and graffiti in this case increased bioarchaeology’s interpretive ability for understanding life under Roman and Byzantine rule in the Near East.
Simulation of AIMS measurements using rigorous mask 3D modeling

ABSTRACT Aerial image measurement system (AIMS TM ) has been widely used for wafer level inspection of mask defects. Reported inspection flows include die-to-die (D2D) and die-to-database (D2DB) methods. For patterns that do not repeat in another die, only the D2DB approach is applicable. The D2DB method requires accurate simulation of AIMS measurements for a mask pattern. An optical vectorial model is needed to depict the mask diffraction effect in this simulation. To accurately simulate the imaging results, a rigorous electro-magnetic field (EMF) model is essential to correctly take account of the EMF scatteri ng induced by the mask topography, which is usually called the mask 3D effect. In this study, the mask 3D model we use is rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA), which calculates the diffraction fields from a single plane wave incidence. A hybrid Hopkins-Abbe method with RCWA is used to calculate the EMF diffraction at a desired accuracy level while keeping the co mputation time practical. We will compare the speed of the hybrid Hopkins-Abbe method to the rigorous Abbe method. The matching between simulation and experiment is more challenging for AIMS than CD-SEM because its measurements provide full intensity information. Parameters in the mask 3D model such as film stack thickness or film optical properties, is optimized during the fitting process. We will report the fitting results of AIMS images for two-dimensional structures with various pitches. By accurately simulating the AIMS measurem ents, it provides a necessary tool to perform the mask inspection using the D2DB ap proach and to accurately predict the mask defects. Keywords: AIMS, lithography, mask 3D, EMF, mask inspection
Increased Cerebral Oxygen Metabolism and Ischemic Stress in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome-Associated Risk Factors: Preliminary Observations

Hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia are risk factors that characterize metabolic syndrome (MetS), which increases the risk for stroke by 40%. In a preliminary study, our aim was to evaluate cerebrovascular reactivity and oxygen metabolism in subjects free of vascular disease but with one or more of these risk factors. Volunteers (n = 15) 59 ± 15 (mean ± SD) years of age clear of cerebrovascular disease by magnetic resonance angiography but with one or more risk factors were studied by quantitative positron emission tomography for measurement of cerebral blood flow, oxygen consumption, oxygen extraction fraction (OEF), and acetazolamide cerebrovascular reactivity. Eight of ten subjects with MetS risk factors had OEF >50%. None of the five without risk factors had OEF >50%. The presence of MetS risk factors was highly correlated with OEF >50% by Fisher's exact test (p < 0.007). The increase in OEF was significantly (P < 0.001) correlated with cerebral metabolic rate for oxygen. Increased OEF was not associated with compromised acetazolamide cerebrovascular reactivity. Subjects with one or more MetS risk factors are characterized by increased cerebral oxygen consumption and ischemic stress, which may be related to increased risk of cerebrovascular disease and stroke.
Disulfide cross‐links in the interaction of a cataract‐linked αA‐crystallin mutant with βB1‐crystallin

A number of alphaA-crystallin mutants are associated with hereditary cataract including cysteine substitution at arginine 49. We report the formation of affinity-driven disulfide bonds in the interaction of alphaA-R49C with betaB1-crystallin. To mimic cysteine thiolation in the lens, betaB1-crystallin was modified by a bimane probe through a disulfide linkage. Our data suggest a mechanism whereby a transient disulfide bond occurs between alphaA- and betaB1-crystallin followed by a disulfide exchange with cysteine 49 of a neighboring alphaA-crystallin subunit. This is the first investigation of disulfide bonds in the confine of the chaperone/substrate complex where reaction rates are favored by orders of magnitude. Covalent protein cross-links are a hallmark of age-related cataract and may be a factor in its inherited form.
Effect of chemical modification on the surface activity of some phenothiazine derivatives

The ability of some substituted phenothiazines to reduce the surface tension of aqueous solutions has been studied in order to evaluate their hydrophobic behavior. Particular emphasis was placed on utilizing conditions that would allow specific structural effects to be isolated quantitatively and to point out situations where this may be difficult to do. Substitution on the phenothiazine ring enhances surface activity in the order CF3 ≫ Cl > H. Changing the position of the chloro group on the ring significantly influences surface activity, the order being 3Cl > 2Cl > 1Cl. The effect on surface activity due to changes in the number of alkyl groups, the degree of branching, and the number of dissociable groups on the alkylamino portion of the molecule also has been evaluated.
Ribosomal protein S9 is a novel B23/NPM-binding protein required for normal cell proliferation.

B23 (NPM/nucleophosmin) is a multifunctional nucleolar protein and a member of the nucleoplasmin superfamily of acidic histone chaperones. B23 is essential for normal embryonic development and plays an important role in genomic stability, ribosome biogenesis, and anti-apoptotic signaling. Altered protein expression or genomic mutation of B23 is encountered in many different forms of cancer. Although described as multifunctional, a genuine molecular function of B23 is not fully understood. Here we show that B23 is associated with a protein complex consisting of ribosomal proteins and ribosome-associated RNA helicases. A novel, RNA-independent interaction between ribosomal protein S9 (RPS9) and B23 was further investigated. We found that S9 binding requires an intact B23 oligomerization domain. Depletion of S9 by small interfering RNA resulted in decreased protein synthesis and G1 cell cycle arrest, in association with induction of p53 target genes. We determined that S9 is a short-lived protein in the absence of ribosome biogenesis, and proteasomal inhibition significantly increased S9 protein level. Overexpression of B23 facilitated nucleolar storage of S9, whereas knockdown of B23 led to diminished levels of nucleolar S9. Our results suggest that B23 selectively stores, and protects ribosomal protein S9 in nucleoli and therefore could facilitate ribosome biogenesis.
Modeling of Bacterial Growth under Multiply-Limiting Conditions. Experiments under Carbon- or/and Nitrogen-Limiting Conditions

As the limiting substrate is altered, a microorganism’s internal structure is also altered by invoking different metabolic pathways for the utilization of the limiting substrate. Transitions between pathways are moderated by the processes of metabolic regulation and are observed under steady-state and transient conditions. Under nitrogen-limited steady-state conditions, the effects of overflow metabolism are observed in the form of polysaccharide synthesis and excess carbon oxidation, two phenomena that are not observed under carbon-limited conditions. Furthermore, during transient periods following dilution rate shifts, metabolic lags are observed to be a function of the size of the shift as well as the limiting substrate. The latter observation indicates the preference of one reaction pathway over another as the status of glucose or NH4+ is altered from limiting to nonlimiting. This paper presents steady-state and transient results from continuous culture experiments using Escherichia coli W. Singly-limiting conditions, when either glucose or ammonia is the limiting substrate, are investigated. Transient conditions are created by quickly increasing or decreasing the dilution rate of the fermentor. By utilizing the control strategies identified by Straight and Ramkrishna (1994) for regulating the processes commonly found within metabolic pathways, a cybernetic model is developed and compared to the steady-state and transient experimental results. Due to the incorporation of metabolic pathways, the development of the model accounts for lumped biosynthetic intermediates in addition to key enzymes that catalyze different cellular processes. The model also accounts for an internal resource that is optimally allocated toward the synthesis of the key enzymes. Furthermore, the model incorporates the effects of maintenance processes and overflow metabolism. Upon incorporating nitrogen utilization, the kinetic aspects of the model do not explicitly reduce to those of previous cybernetic models; however, the regulatory structure is in complete agreement with previous cybernetic models proposed for carbon utilization.
Late changes in cerebral monoamine metabolism following focal ventrolateral cerebrocortical lesions in rats

Abstract Twelve weeks after focal ventrolateral cerebrocortical suction lesions (ca. 12 × 4 mm) were made in rats, concentrations of the monoamines norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), and serotonin (5-HT) and their metabolites were measured in several cortical and subcortical brain regions using high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Widespread changes in the concentrations of monoamines, their metabolites, and metabolite: monoamine ratios were found in the hemisphere ipsilateral to unilateral (right) lesions, and bilaterally in animals with bilateral lesions. NE was decreased in undamaged dorsolateral cortex and hippocampus, and tended to be increased in striatum and midbrain ipsilateral to lesions. DA was increased in the hypothalamus of bilaterally lesioned animals, and also tended to be increased in striatum and midbrain. The changes of greatest magnitude and anatomical extent were found in the serotonin system: 5-HT was generally increased, and its metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) and the 5-HIAA:5-HT ratio were decreased throughout the cerebral hemispheres ipsilateral to lesions. These widespread changes in cerebral 5-HT metabolism were qualitatively different and smaller than those previously found at 6 days after cortical lesions, and suggest a biphasic response of the ipsilateral 5-HT system to ventrolateral cortical injury.
Some Attributes of Adjectives Used by Young Children.

Abstract Analysis of 24 spontaneous speech samples from children at 24 and 30 months revealed a correlated progression in the form, function and meaning of modifiers used with increased language development. Predicate adjectives were used to comment on transitory states of objects and predominated in the early speech samples. Attributive adjectives were used to subdivide classes or to specify among particular instances within classes on the basis of physical characteristics such as size, by use of a conventional type name, or by use of a possessive. Attributives predominated in the later speech samples. Differential use of a particular form appears to be a function of its cognitive and communicational usefulness rather than its syntactic derivation.
Polystyrenes in channels

Abstract Polystyrenes (PS) with various stereosequences have been modeled in narrow cylindrical channels corresponding to those found in polymer–inclusion compounds (ICs), such as those formed with host cyclodextrins (CDs), where the polymers reside as guests. Isotactic (i) PS is found to fit in channels with narrower diameters (D) than syndiotactic (s) PS, when both adopt conformations permitted by the Yoon, Sundararajan, Flory RIS conformational model of PSs, while atactic (a) PS can be included in channels with D intermediate to those for i- and s-PS. In ICs formed with host γ-CD and guest a-PS homopolymer and guest poly(ϵ-caprolactone) (PCL)-b-a-PS diblock copolymer it was observed that the a-PS homopolymer and the a-PS copolymer blocks were and were not included, respectively. Thus, it appears that a-PS is barely able to be threaded by γ-CD, whose internal diameter is ∼8 A. Because the channel conformers found for i- and s-PS have smaller and larger diameters, respectively, than those found for a-PS, we would expect i-PS to be complexed by γ-CD, while s-PS might not. As a consequence IC formation with γ-CD may provide a means to physically separate the stereoregular forms of polystyrene. In addition, only the mrm and rmr PS stereoisomers show channel conformations with significant probabilities, so we suggest that in situ polymerization of styrene monomer in the narrow channels of its IC formed with γ-CD might produce a new stereoregular form of PS with regularly alternating m and r diads.
Mechanical and Charge Transport Properties of Alkanethiol Self-Assembled Monolayers on a Au(111) Surface: The Role of Molecular Tilt

The relationship between charge transport and mechanical properties of alkanethiol self-assembled monolayers (SAM) on Au(111) films has been investigated using an atomic force microscope with a conductive tip. Molecular tilts induced by the pressure applied by the tip cause stepwise increases in film conductivity. A decay constant {beta} = 0.57 {+-} 0.03 {angstrom}{sup -1} was found for the current passing through the film as a function of tip-substrate separation due to this molecular tilt. This is significantly smaller than the value of {approx} 1 {angstrom}{sup -1} found when the separation is changed by changing the length of the alkanethiol molecules. Calculations indicate that for isolated dithiol molecules S-bonded to hollow sites, the junction conductance does not vary significantly as a function of molecular tilt. The impact of S-Au bonding on SAM conductance is discussed.
Coordination of component mental operations in a multiple-response task

Models of human performance typically focus on the mental components of task processing from discrete task trials. This approach neglects the advance planning of actions and overlapping of tasks characteristic of natural settings. The present research measures the joint timing of eye movements and manual responses in a typing-like task with the goal of extending models of discrete task performance to continuous domains. Following Pashler [1994] participants made separate choice responses to a series of five letters spread over a wide viewing area. Replicating Pashler's results, significant preview effects were found in both response time and eye movement data. Response to the first stimulus was delayed, with inter-response intervals for subsequent items rapid and flat across items. The eyes moved toward the next letter about 800 ms before the corresponding manual response (eye-hand span). Fixation dwell time was affected by stimulus luminance as well as difficulty of response mapping. The results suggest that fixation duration entails more than perceptual analyses. Implications of the results are discussed.
Results of mathematical modeling of an oil shale retort having a fluidized-bed pyrolyzer and a lift-pipe combustor

Abstract A commercial-size, hot-solids recycle retorting process, consisting of a staged fluidized-bed pyrolyzer and a lift-pipe combustor, was simulated using a previously developed mathematical model. The focus of this work at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is to show the effects of varying key process parameters. A design study shows the effects of certain design variables (such as pyrolyzer temperature, combustor pressure, etc.) on items that would affect the capital or operating costs of the plant (such as reactor sizes, utility requirements, yield, etc.). An operation study, in which the reactor dimensions were fixed, shows how the plant would respond to changes imposed on it. We evaluated the plant's sensitivity to some unavoidable changes and to the effectiveness of several strategies for controlling process conditions. Tabulated and graphical results from 22 individual parameter studies are presented. Conclusions drawn from these results include the following. Costs can be shifted from the combustor side of the process to the pyrolyzer side by decreasing pyrolysis temperature and/or increasing recycle ratio. Higher combustor pressure or oxygen/air enrichment would reduce the number and height of lift-pipes at the expense of large blower capacity or oxygen costs. Very large changes in shale grade or rate would not significantly upset plant operation. Plant operation would be extremely sensitive to the fraction of fines in the raw shale unless the fines are pyrolyzed completely before being fed to the combustor. Ranked from best to worst, the control options considered are: manipulation of the solids recycle ratio, oxygen/air fraction, lift-pipe pressure, raw-shale preheat temperature, and extent of fines pyrolysis.
All-atom empirical potential for molecular modeling and dynamics studies of proteins.

New protein parameters are reported for the all-atom empirical energy function in the CHARMM program. The parameter evaluation was based on a self-consistent approach designed to achieve a balance between the internal (bonding) and interaction (nonbonding) terms of the force field and among the solvent−solvent, solvent−solute, and solute−solute interactions. Optimization of the internal parameters used experimental gas-phase geometries, vibrational spectra, and torsional energy surfaces supplemented with ab initio results. The peptide backbone bonding parameters were optimized with respect to data for N-methylacetamide and the alanine dipeptide. The interaction parameters, particularly the atomic charges, were determined by fitting ab initio interaction energies and geometries of complexes between water and model compounds that represented the backbone and the various side chains. In addition, dipole moments, experimental heats and free energies of vaporization, solvation and sublimation, molecular volume...
Bacteroides fragilis isolated post mortem from an abscess in a myocardial infarct.

Summary An unusual case of an abscess complicating a myocardial infarct is described. Similar cases reported so far are reviewed, with special attention to modes of presentation, possible sources of infection and complications.
The Dominant Negative LQT2 Mutation A561V Reduces Wild-type HERG Expression

HERG1 K+ channel mutations are responsible for one form of dominantly inherited long QT syndrome (LQT). Some LQT mutations exert a dominant negative effect on wild-type current expression. To investigate mechanisms of dominant-negative behavior, we co-expressed wild-type HERG with the A561V mutant in mammalian cells. Transfection with various cDNA ratios produced HERG K+ current densities that approached a predicted binomial distribution where mutant and wild-type subunits co-assemble in a tetramer with nearly complete dominance. Using C terminus myc-tagged wild-type HERG we specifically followed the mutant's effect on full-length wild-type HERG protein expression. Co-expression with A561V reduced the abundance of full-length wild-type HERG protein comparable to the current reduction. Reduction of wild-type protein was due to decreased synthesis and increased turnover. Conditions facilitating protein folding (growth at 30 °C, or in 10% glycerol) resulted in partial rescue from the dominant effect, as did the 26 S proteosome inhibitor ALLN. Thus, for A561V, dominant negative effects result from assembly of wild-type subunits with mutant very early in production leading to rapid recognition of mutant channels and targeting for proteolysis. These results establish protein misfolding, cellular proofreading, and bystander involvement as contributing mechanisms for dominant effects in LQT2.
Chemical composition of dissolved organic matter in agroecosystems: Correlations with soil enzyme activity and carbon and nitrogen mineralization

Abstract Soil enzyme-catalyzed depolymerization of organic matter results in the production of low molecular weight and dissolved organic compounds. This fraction of soil organic matter is the immediate energy, carbon and other nutrient substrates for microbial catabolic pathways and thus likely plays an important role in soil processes. The purpose of this study was to elucidate interrelationships among dissolved organic matter, soil enzyme activity, and soil C and N mineralization from diverse agroecosystems. These systems included a conventional cropping, organic cropping, integrated crop–livestock, plantation forestry, and succession from an abandoned agricultural field. We collected surface soil samples from 0 to 10 cm depth in early spring 2009 and examined the concentrations of soil-derived dissolved organic C and N, soluble phenolics, reducing sugars, and amino acids, the activities of β-glucosidase, exoglucanase, phenol oxidase, peroxidase, and β-glucosaminidase, and the rates of soil C and N mineralization. The integrated crop–livestock system showed the highest concentrations of dissolved soil organic C (78 μg C g−1 soil) as well as phenolic compounds (1.5 μg C g−1 soil), reducing sugars (23 μg C g−1 soil), and amino acids (0.76 μg N g−1 soil), and these components were up to 3-fold greater than soils under the other systems. However, soil β-glucosidase activity in the integrated crop–livestock system was significantly lower than the other systems and appeared to reflect the inhibitory role of soluble phenolics on this enzyme; this enzymatic disparity was also revealed in our preliminary study conducted in 2008. Among the five enzyme activities examined, only peroxidase activity was correlated significantly with the chemical composition of dissolved organic matter as well as soil C and N mineralization. Soil peroxidase activity was negatively related to the relative abundance of reducing sugars (i.e., reducing sugar C as a fraction of dissolved organic C, r = −0.92, P
Photoxidation of Cholesterol in Spray‐dried Egg Yolk Upon Irradiation

SUMMARY Photoxidation products of cholesterol in spray-dried yolk exposed to nonionizing radiation were examined by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) and infrared spectroscopy. Irradiation of yolk solids by radiant energy from either a 40-watt fluorescent lamp (about 280 hr) or summer sunlight (5 hr) brought about the formation of at least 5 photoxidation derivatives of cholesterol as demonstrated by TLC and GLC. The major oxidation products were identified as 7-ketocholesterol, 7α and 7β-hydroxycholesterols, cholesterol-5β,6β-oxide and cholestane-3β,5α,6β-triol. Neither fresh yolk or unirradiated spray-dried yolk (held at 25°C for 1 year) contained significant amounts of typical autoxidation products of cholesterol.
The Labor Theory of Value and Fixed Capital

A new approach to the relationship between the labor theory of value and fixed capital is presented. It is argued that fixed capital is not a joint product. Hence value should be imputed to it differently than to the produced commodities. A mathematical model is developed in which labor values can be imputed clearly and consistently to the commodities, even in the presence of fixed capital. This procedure is compared to Steedman's and Morishima's approaches and is seen to avoid the problems they incur. Thus it is concluded that fixed capital can be examined by means of the labor theory of value and that the Sraffa-von Neumann treatment of fixed capital should be abandoned.
Detailed analysis of polymer response to delivery balloon expansion of drug-eluting stents versus bare metal stents.

AIMS We sought to describe the response of the polymer surface of drug-eluting stents (DES) to delivery balloon expansion, including quantitation of any resulting detached microparticles. METHODS AND RESULTS We expanded the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved first- and second-generation DES in a vacuum filtration system and used optical and scanning electron microscopy to image the polymer surface, filters and delivery balloons. DES were expanded under a range of conditions, from in vitro conditions used for FDA regulatory submissions to human in vivo conditions. Dispersive Raman spectroscopy was used for definitive identification of microparticles. All polymer surfaces were topographically disturbed over an average of 4.6%-100% of the surface area imaged. Disturbances ranged from deformation (including peeling) to complete delamination. The dimensions of detached microparticles were 2-350 μm. The extent and nature of surface disturbances and microparticles were primarily a function of polymer composition (p<0.001 for 8/10 disturbance types/locations) and were independent of expansion condition (p=0.100 to 0.989 for 9/10 disturbance types/locations). CONCLUSIONS Balloon expansion of first- and second-generation DES disturbs the polymer surface and can cause detachment of microparticles; each is functionally related to the specific polymer but not to expansion condition. Disturbance "roughness" and detached microparticles may contribute to DES limitations.
Elucidation of structure-reactivity relationships in hindered phenols via quantum chemistry and transition state theory

Quantum chemistry and transition state theory were used to study 10 different radical reactions of peroxy radicals abstracting the phenolic hydrogen of several antioxidants. The B3LYP functional with a 6-31G(d) basis set was used to characterize transition states with as many as 20 heavy atoms. The impact of quantum tunneling was investigated for a representative reaction, and it was shown that the Wigner correction provides a good approximation to more advanced semi-classical transmission coefficients. A kinetic correlation was developed that is suitable for use in kinetic modeling, allowing antioxidant chemistry to be included in large mechanistic models of hydrocarbon oxidation.
Longevity of rabies antibody titre in recipients of human diploid cell rabies vaccine.

Sera from individuals across the USA and Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV) were assayed for neutralizing antibody to human diploid cell rabies vaccine (HDCV). A pairwise comparison between intramuscular (i.m.) and intradermal (i.d.) administration, PCV and non-PCV, revealed statistically significant differences between i.m. and i.d. for PCV and non-PCV, and between PCV and non-PCV for i.d. and i.m. administration. Survival analysis and frequency tables employing chi 2 tests determined that the percentage probability of maintaining an adequate titre from 1.5-2.0 years after primary vaccination was 99% in non-PCV i.m., 93% in non-PCV i.d., 88% in PCV i.m., and 64% in PCV i.d.
A note on linear programming and the single machine lot size scheduling problem

Past research on the lot size scheduling problem has relied heavily on the following assumptions: (1)Each product is to be produced on a regular invariant cycle. (2)The inventory level at the onset of each production run is zero. In this paper these two restrictions have been dropped. It is shown that the inventory cost function can be expressed as a linear function. This allows the use of linear programming methods to determine the optimal lengths for a given sequence of production runs.
Effects of masking noise on the verbal performance of adult aphasics.

Summary Previous investigations using auditory stimulation to improve speech in expressive aphasics show conflicting results. We attempted to resolve the existing confusion by having aphasics perform various naming and reading tasks during quiet and during stimulation with a continuous intense noise. Comparison of results obtained in quiet and in noise revealed no significant differences in accuracy or quality of response, but reduced latency during noise. Improvement, or the lack of it, was not related to the duration of aphasia or its severity, to minimal problems of auditory input, or to the amount of previous therapy.
Monoclonal Antibodies that Neutralize HIV–1 Virions and Inhibit Syncytium Formation by Infected Cells

Several hybridomas secreting neutralizing monoclonal antibodies against the AIDS virus, human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV–1), have been developed by immunizing mice with inactivated HIV–1 and fusing the immune spleen cells with myeloma cells. The monoclonal antibodies are specific to epitopes of the viral envelope protein, gp120, as assessed by enzyme–linked immunosorbent assays and Western immunoblotting. They bind to viral antigens on the surface of HIV–1–infected T cells, and effectively inhibit the infection of T cells by free virions in vitro at sub–nanomolar concentrations. They also inhibit the fusion between uninfected and infected cells—a process implicated in viral transmission and T cell death. These results suggest that the same epitopes of gp120 may be involved in both the binding of HIV–1 virions to target cells and the interaction between HIV–1 infected and uninfected cells. The potential applications of these antibodies to understanding the critical neutralizing domains on the HIV envelope, and in treating HIV–infected individuals and patients with AIDS, are discussed.
Korean wave: Enjoyment factors of Korean dramas in the U.S.

Abstract From a disposition theory perspective, successful dramas are driven by the development of strong dispositions towards characters. Thus, disposition theory logic is used to predict the enjoyment of American viewers when watching two different Korean dramas ( Personal Preference and Secret Garden ). The influence of sex, affective dispositions, empathy, open-mindedness, and past exposure to Korean culture on audience enjoyment is measured. The findings support the basic premise of disposition theory that the development of strong dispositions towards characters is needed in order to develop emotional responses necessary for successful dramas. Disposition theory can be used to explain viewing dispositions in order to predict enjoyment cross-culturally.
Effect of Oils and Chemicals on DuPrene Compounds

Abstract Since the days of Charles Goodyear there has been among rubber chemists a growing appreciation of the fact that almost every condition of service to which rubber may be subjected requires a different type of compound, if the best possible results are to be obtained. The most valuable lesson to be learned from the investigations reported here is that this is true of DuPrene to an even greater extent than of rubber. It would be easy for one, who had happened to immerse in sulfuric acid a DuPrene compound containing clay, to draw the conclusion that sulfuric acid causes DuPrene to swell and lose all of its strength and rubber-like characteristics; but, when we have all the facts before us, we see that it is the clay, not the DuPrene, that causes the trouble. Likewise, that very common and generally inoffensive rubber-compounding ingredient, barytes, is one of the worst materials that can be used in a DuPrene stock which is subjected in service to acetic acid, but the mere substitution of clay for th...
The engagement of β1 integrins on promonocytic cells promotes phosphorylation of Syk and formation of a protein complex containing Lyn and β1 integrin

The protein-tyrosine kinase Syk participates in signal transduction pathways downstream from multiple immune recognition receptors. Recent evidence indicates that Syk is also functionally coupled to cell surface integrins, which mediate interactions between the actin cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix proteins. The interactions of undifferentiated, promonocytic HL60 or U937 cells with fibronectin or anti-beta1 integrin antibodies leads to an apparent activation and tyrosine phosphorylation of Syk that is independent of tight cellular adhesion and spreading. In response to fibronectin or anti-beta1 integrin antibodies, beta1 integrins become associated with a complex of proteins that include the Lyn protein tyrosine kinase and endogenous kinase substrates of 29 and 75-80 kDa. Lyn becomes transiently activated following integrin engagement and co-localizes with the actin cytoskeleton. These studies suggest a major role for Lyn in coupling beta1 integrins to the activation of Syk.
Supplementation of Dairy Cow Diets with Calcium Salts of Long-Chain Fatty Acids and Nicotinic Acid in Early Lactation

Abstract Forty multiparous Holstein cows were assigned to one of four treatments 15 d postpartum according to milk yield during wk 2 postpartum to examine the effects of supplementing niacin, Ca salts of long-chain fatty acids, and their interaction. Treatments were control, niacin (12 g/d), Ca salts of long-chain fatty acids (3% of dietary DM), or a combination of niacin and Ca salts. On d 99 postpartum, all cows were fed the control treatment for 2 wk to evaluate residual effects. Milk and FCM yields, blood plasma NEFA and β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations, and apparent total tract hemicellulose digestibility were increased; milk protein percentage, milk SNF percentage, and blood plasma glucose concentrations were reduced by treatments containing the Ca soaps. Niacin supplementation increased milk protein content and yield but reduced blood plasma β-hydroxybutyrate concentration. During the residual period, in which all cows received the control treatment, milk yield and plasma NEFA concentration remained elevated, milk protein and SNF contents remained depressed, and milk fat content was reduced for cows previously supplemented with Ca salts of long-chain fatty acids. Methionine and phenylalanine uptakes by the mammary gland were enhanced by niacin supplementation. Results indicated that dairy cattle in early lactation yielded more milk when their diets were supplemented with Ca salts of long-chain fatty acids and that niacin supplementation increased milk protein content and yield.
Modelling asphalt mastic stiffness using discrete element analysis and micromechanics-based models

This study uses the discrete element method (DEM) to simulate the dynamic mechanical behaviour of asphalt mastics. Asphalt mastics are defined as dispersions of aggregate fillers within a medium of asphalt binder. The fillers refer to the fraction of mineral aggregate passing the 200-mesh sieve, (i.e. smaller than 75 μm). Mastic measurements obtained using the dynamic shear rheometer were compared to DEM predictions and available micromechanics-based models. Three asphalt binders (ABD-1, AAM-1 and ABM-1) and four mineral fillers (glacial gravel, granite, limestone and greywacke) were used to prepare the mastics in this study. The stiffening effect of the mineral fillers was investigated at different filler volume fractions. The DEM results captured the stiffening behaviour of asphalt mastics as a function of the volumetric concentration of mineral fillers. The DEM results exhibited a high rate of stiffening that is typically observed in experimental measurements of mastics at relatively low volume concent...
Xanthomas and hyperlipidemias

The ability to recognize diverse clinical forms of xanthomas, such as tuberous, planar, eruptive and tendinous, is important in the detection of underlying systemic disease. A variety of primary genetic disorders, as well as numerous secondary conditions such as diabetes, obstructive liver disease, thyroid disease, renal disease, and pancreatitis, can lead to hyperlipoproteinemia that results in the formation not only of xanthomas but also of life-threatening vascular atherosclerosis. An understanding of the pathogenesis of the underlying lipoprotein alterations provides a rational approach to therapy utilizing dietary manipulations and drugs. Such treatment is capable of correcting most disorders of lipid metabolism, and, if appropriate therapy is initiated at the first sign of xanthoma evolution, it may prevent progression of atherosclerosis, provide resolution of xanthomas, and in some instances prevent serious pancreatitis.
Augmentation of the accuracy of percutaneous electrode implantation by using a modified arthroscope to guide insertion

Using a clear polyvinyl fluoride sheath over an arthroscope, inserted through a 1-cm stab incision, we have demonstrated the feasibility of visualizing the sciatic nerve and its branches in the feline model. The purpose of this technique is to allow visual control, without a large surgical incision, of the exact site of implantation of electrodes used for functional neuromuscular stimulation. Currently, we determine the optimum site for percutaneous electrode implantation by stimulating the target nerve or muscle with a 26-gauge probe needle until maximal response is obtained. This method lacks accuracy because there is no direct visualization of the location of the tip of the probe or the electrode. With the new technique, we identified nerves by their distinctive vascular markings and we followed the nerves with minimal disruption of the soft tissues. In this way, individual branches were identified and targeted for instrumentation, allowing selective stimulation of specific muscle groups.
What do our critical practices say about the nature of morality

A prominent argument for moral realism notes that we are inclined to accept realism in science because scientific inquiry supports a robust set of critical practices—error, improvement, explanation, and the like. It then argues that because morality displays a comparable set of critical practices, a claim to moral realism is just as warranted as a claim to scientific realism. But the argument is only as strong as its central analogy—and here there is trouble. If the analogy between the critical practices of science and morality is loosely interpreted, the argument does not support moral realism—for paradigmatically constructivist discourses like fashion display the relevant critical practices just as well. So if the argument is to have force, the realist must say more about why the critical practices of morality are sufficiently like those of science to warrant realism. But this cannot be done—moral inquiry differs from scientific inquiry in too many important ways. So the analogy with the critical practices of science fails to vindicate moral realism. But there are further lessons: in looking closely at the critical practices of our moral discourse—and in comparing them to the critical practices of science and fashion—we gain insight into what is distinctive about morality objectivity and moral metaphysics.