cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Purification and characterization of two monomeric kinesin constructs.

Steady-state and pre-steady-state kinetic methods were used to analyze two shorter Drosophila kinesin constructs (K341 and K366) in comparison to K401. K341, K366, and K401 represent the kinesin motor domains containing the N-terminal 341, 366, or 401 amino acids, respectively. K401 is dimeric (Kd = 37 ± 17 nM) whereas both K366 and K341 are monomeric [Correia et al. (1995) Biochemistry 34, 4898−4907]. Like native kinesin and K401, K341 and K366 demonstrate low ATPase activity in the absence of microtubules (0.03 and 0.01 s-1, respectively), and ADP release is rate-limiting during steady- state turnover. Microtubules activate the steady-state ATPase to 84 s-1 for K341 (Km,ATP = 100 μM; K0.5,MT = 3.2 μM tubulin) and 64 s-1 for K366 (Km,ATP = 65 μM; K0.5,MT = 2.5 μM tubulin) in comparison to K401 at 20 s-1 (Km,ATP = 60 μM; K0.5,MT = 1 μM tubulin). The rapid quench experiments for all three constructs show a burst of product formation during the first turnover, indicating the rate-limiting step for the micro...
Defect State in A-15 Superconductors

A simple explanation is suggested for the recently discovered universal behavior of defected $A\ensuremath{-}15$ superconductors. Qualitatively and quantitatively, this behavior can be understood as being the direct result of an extremely large anisotropy of the superconducting energy gap.
Coxsackievirus B3 from an infectious cDNA copy of the genome is cardiovirulent in mice.

A coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) cDNA clone, upon transfection of HeLa cells, produces CVB3 capable of induction of cardiac inflammation in C3H/He mice by day 8 post inoculation (p.i.). Liver and serum are cleared of CVB3 by day 8 p.i., but CVB3 persists in the heart through day 14. The nucleotide sequence and the predicted amino acid sequence of this clone have sites of divergence from 2 other completely sequenced CVB3 genomes although overall identity of the three CVB3 genomes is 99%.
The timing of motherhood: The challenge to social workers

The timing of the first birth has become a critical issue, to be addressed by the social work profession. This paper suggests that women who have timed the birth of their first child at two different stages in adulthood have responded to the challenges of motherhood in divergent ways. In order to work as effectively as possible with mothers and children, social workers need to understand these differences related to the timing of motherhood.
Retrospective assessment of Medicaid step-therapy prior authorization policy for atypical antipsychotic medications

Abstract Background: Antipsychotic medications account for more prescription expenditures in Medicaid than any other therapeutic category. This has made them an attractive target for states hoping to curtail rising expenditures. Objective: The objective of this study was to document the effects of a step-therapy prior authorization (PA) policy for atypical antipsychotic medications on: (1) Medicaid prescription expenditures among all Medicaid beneficiaries and (2) prescription and health service expenditures among patients with schizophrenia. Methods: Prescription, inpatient, outpatient, and long-term care State Medicaid Research Files from Georgia and Mississippi from January 1, 1996, to December 31, 1997, were used to model an interrupted time-series analysis. We compared a step-therapy PA policy implemented in Georgia to a nonequivalent/no-treatment control group (Mississippi) over 10-month prepolicy, 11-month policy, and 3-month postpolicy periods. Segmented regression was used to estimate antipsychotic prescription expenditures among all eligible Medicaid beneficiaries. We used generalized estimating equations to model prescription and other health service expenditures with difference-indifference regressions among a cohort of patients with schizophrenia. Results: Compared with Mississippi, Georgia saved ~$7 million in atypical antipsychotic expenditures over the 11-month policy period. Among patients with schizophrenia, the PA policy was associated with a $19.62 per member per month (PMPM) decrease in atypical antipsychotic expenditures and a $2.20 PMPM increase in typical antipsychotic expenditures (both, P P Conclusion: Although PA of atypical antipsychotics was associated with significant prescription savings to the Georgia Medicaid program, among a vulnerable cohort of patients with schizophrenia, an increase in outpatient expenditures was associated with overall savings.
A longitudinal study of heterosexual relationships, aggression, and sexual harassment during the transition from primary school through middle school

The period of early adolescence witnesses the onset of interest in heterosexual relationships. Prior to this period, youngsters spend much of their free time with same-sex peers. In the present longitudinal, multimethod study, two dimensions of heterosexual relationships were examined: cross-sex interaction and cross-sex aggression. We examined the extent to which youngsters interacted with peers of the opposite sex, as well as self-reported dating frequency. Cross-sex aggression was also examined. It was predicted that cross-sex interactions would increase with time and that youngsters would use playful strategies to initiate cross-sex interactions. Aggression was measured through self-report, direct observations, and adult completed checklists. It was predicted that both boys and girls would target opposite-sex peer for aggression. Lastly, a mediational model of sexual harassment was proposed whereby dating frequency in the middle of sixth grade would mediate the relation between bullying at the start of seventh grade and sexual harassment at the end of seventh grade. A sample of rural sixth and seventh grade students was studied across their first 2 years of middle school. Predictions were, for the most part, supported. Results are discussed in terms of the role of activity settings as specifying peer youngsters' interactions.
Palaeomagnetic Measurements on some Karroo Dolerites from Rhodesia

IN a previous investigation of the Pre-Cambrian dolerites of Eastern Rhodesia, McElhinny and Opdyke1 established on the basis of palaeomagnetic measurements that two distinct periods of igneous activity were represented. At one locality it appeared that the Mashonaland dolerites had intruded the Umkondo dolerites. On the basis of the evidence from this one site they suggested that the Umkondo dolerites were the older of the two sets of intrusions.
Resistance to Tomato spotted wilt virus and Root-Knot Nematode in Peanut Interspecific Breeding Lines

The peanut root-knot nematode [Meloidogyne arenaria (Neal) Chitwood race 1] and Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), genus Tospovirus, are economically significant pathogens of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in the USA. Peanut cultivars are available that have resistance to either the peanut root-knot nematode (PRN) or TSWV, but no cultivars are available that have resistance to both pathogens. The objective of this research was to identify peanut breeding lines that have resistance to both pathogens. We crossed interspecific peanut germplasm with two cultivars that are susceptible to both PRN and TSWV. Progenies were examined in a greenhouse screening system to measure resistance to PRN. Subsequently, this material was evaluated for resistance to TSWV in field plots. Ten breeding lines were identified which exhibited a reduction in nematode reproduction in comparison to the nematode susceptible check ‘Georgia Green’. These breeding lines also exhibited a reduction in incidence of TSWV in comparison to the TSWV susceptible check ‘COAN’. When grown in a field with pressure from both pathogens, these breeding lines had higher yield than cultivars with resistance to only one pathogen. This is the first report of peanut germplasm with resistance to both TSWV and the peanut root-knot nematode and the first report of resistance to TSWV in interspecific peanut germplasm.
Solid Oxide Fuel Cell/Gas Turbine Hybrid Cycle Technology for Auxiliary Aerospace Power

A notional 440 kW auxiliary power unit has been developed for 300 passenger commercial transport aircraft in 2015AD. A hybrid engine using solid-oxide fuel cell stacks and a gas turbine bottoming cycle has been considered. Steady-state performance analysis during cruise operation has been presented. Trades between performance efficiency and system mass were conducted with system specific energy as the discriminator. Fuel cell performance was examined with an area specific resistance. The ratio of fuel cell versus turbine power was explored through variable fuel utilization. Area specific resistance, fuel utilization, and mission length had interacting effects upon system specific energy. During cruise operation, the simple cycle fuel cell/gas turbine hybrid was not able to outperform current turbine-driven generators for system specific energy, despite a significant improvement in system efficiency. This was due in part to the increased mass of the hybrid engine, and the increased water flow required for on-board fuel reformation. Two planar, anode-supported cell design concepts were considered. Designs that seek to minimize the metallic interconnect layer mass were seen to have a large effect upon the system mass estimates.
Studies of scattering theory using numerical methods

Abstract Numerical simulations, using both exact and approximate methods, are used to study rough surface scattering in both the smd and large roughness regimes. This study is limited lo scattcring lrom rough one-dimensional surfaces that obey the Dirichlet boundary condition and have a Gaussian roughness spectrum. For surfdces with small roughness (kh≪1, where k is the radiation wavenumber and h is the root-mean-square (RMS) Surface height), perturbation theory is known to be valid. However, it is shown numerically that when kh≪1 and kl≳6 (where I is the surface correlation length) the Kirchhoffapprorimation is valid except at low grazing angles, and one must sum the first three orders of perturbation theory obtain the correct result. For kh≪1 and kl≅1, first-order perturbation theory is accurate. In this region, the accuracy of the first two terms of the iterative series solution of the exact integral equation is examined; the first term a1 this series is the Kirchhoff approximation, It is shown numeric...
When Technology Fails: Getting Back to Nature

Research on substance use disorders has produced a slew of disappointments in studies designed to confirm basic principles of the technology approach to treatment dissemination. These setbacks should inspire addictions science to pursue complementary paths of inquiry that focus on evidence-based practices delivered under naturalistic conditions. This will require larger accommodations to, and closer partnerships with, the indigenous cultures of everyday care.
Neuregulin-1 is neuroprotective and attenuates inflammatory responses induced by ischemic stroke

Recent work from our laboratory demonstrated that the expression neuregulin-1 in neurons was induced in the ischemic penumbra by focal stroke in the rat. Here, we show that a single intravascular injection of neuregulin-1beta (approximately 2.5 ng/kg) reduced cortical infarct volume by >98% when given immediately before middle cereral artery occlusion. Subcortical infarct volume was reduced by approximately 40%. Analysis of DNA fragmentation in brain tissues indicated that neuregulin-1 blocked apoptosis in cortical neurons in the penumbra. Neuregulin-1 prevented macrophage/microglial infiltration and astrocytic activation following focal ischemia. The neuroprotective effect of neuregulin-1 was also associated with a suppression of interleukin-1beta mRNA levels. These data suggest that neuregulin-1 protects neurons from delayed, ischemia-induced apoptotic cell death in the cortex by inhibiting pro-inflammatory responses. Neuregulins represent a novel, potent neuroprotective strategy that has potential therapeutic value in treating individuals after acute ischemic stroke.
Identification of S-Hydroxylysyl-methionine as the Covalent Cross-link of the Noncollagenous (NC1) Hexamer of the α1α1α2 Collagen IV Network: A ROLE FOR THE POST-TRANSLATIONAL MODIFICATION OF LYSINE 211 TO HYDROXYLYSINE 211 IN HEXAMER ASSEMBLY *

Collagen IV networks are present in all metazoans as components of basement membranes that underlie epithelia. They are assembled by the oligomerization of triple-helical protomers, composed of three α-chains. The trimeric noncollagenous domains (NC1) of each protomer interact forming a hexamer structure. Upon exposure to acidic pH or denaturants, the hexamer dissociates into monomer and dimer subunits, the latter reflect distinct interactions that reinforce/cross-link the quaternary structure of hexamer. Recently, the cross-link site of the α1α1α2 network was identified, on the basis of x-ray crystal structures at 1.9-A resolution, in which the side chains of Met93 and Lys211 were proposed to be connected by a novel thioether bond (Than, M. E., Henrich, S., Huber, R., Ries, A., Mann, K., Kuhn, K., Timpl, R., Bourenkov, G. P., Bartunik, H. D., and Bode, W. (2002) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 99, 6607-6612); however, at the higher resolution of 1.5 A, we found no evidence for this cross-link (Vanacore, R. M., Shanmugasundararaj, S., Friedman, D. B., Bondar, O., Hudson, B. G., and Sundaramoorthy, M. (2004) J. Biol. Chem. 279, 44723-44730). Given this discrepancy in crystallographic findings, we sought chemical evidence for the location and nature of the reinforcement/cross-link site. Trypsin digestion of monomer and dimer subunits excised a ∼5,000-Da complex that distinguished dimers from monomers; the complex was characterized by mass spectrometry, Edman degradation, and amino acid composition analyses. The tryptic complex, composed of two peptides of 44 residues derived from two α1 NC1 monomers, contained Met93 and Lys211 post-translationally modified to hydroxylysine (Hyl211). Truncation of the tryptic complex with post-proline endopeptidase reduced its size to 14 residues to facilitate characterization by tandem mass spectrometry, which revealed a covalent linkage between Met93 and Hyl211. The novel cross-link, termed S-hydroxylysyl-methionine, reflects at least two post-translational events in its formation: the hydroxylation of Lys211 to Hyl211 within the NC1 domain during the biosynthesis of α-chains and the connection of Hyl211 to Met93 between the trimeric NC1 domains of two adjoining triple-helical protomers, reinforcing the stability of collagen IV networks.
Current Survey of Reference Sources in Journalism

Journalism is concerned with the reporting, writing, editing, broadcasting and the photography of news. Editorial or print journalism is limited to writing, editing and reporting and it is one factor in the ever‐growing list of diverse opportunities open to the modern day journalist. Photojournalism, radio and television broadcasting, editorial and newspaper cartoons, public relations and telecommunications are other aspects. All of these are part of “mass media” or “mass communication,” phrases that will be repeated throughout this article. Other areas considered part of the mass media are cinema, advertising, book publishing and sometimes photography.
Determination of five estrogens in wastewater using a comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatograph

Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC) hyphenated with rapid quadrupole mass spectrometry was successfully used to develop a novel method for the determination of trace level estrogens in influent and effluent wastewater. Five estrogens used for the study were 17β-estradiol (βE2), 17α-estradiol (αE2), estrone (E1), 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE2) and estriol (E3). Two orthogonal columns and thermal modulation result in enhanced separation, while the rapid scanning quadrupole mass spectrometer gives high resolution peaks. Samples were extracted with Hydrophilic–Lipophilic Balance (HLB) cartridges and derivatized with N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) prior to analysis. The method uses a single extraction step and ng L−1 method detection limits were achieved using a relatively low sample volume of 500 mL. Elimination of additional cleanup steps make the method time effective. Furthermore, the method has less initial cost as the instrument is far less expensive than a tandem mass spectrometer. A parallel conventional gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric (GC/MS) study was carried out to compare the results. Detection limits were 2 to 4 times improved with the GC × GC over the GC/MS.
Response of Northern Elephant Seal platelets to pressure and temperature changes: A comparison with human platelets

Mammalian blood platelets are activated by physiological agonists such as collagen or thrombin, or by physical stimuli such as cold temperatures and rapid decompression. Marine mammals regularly experience cold temperatures, high pressures and rapid decompression while diving, yet do not appear to suffer from thrombotic events during routine dive activity. We evaluated the effects of cold temperature and high pressure excursions on Northern Elephant Seal (NES) platelets and compared NES platelet response to that of human platelets subjected to identical stimuli. NES platelets undergo cold-induced activation when chilled to 4 °C, and 3 distinct phase transitions can be measured using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. NES platelet membrane lipid composition was determined using thin layer chromatography and NES platelets were found to have three times the amount of cholesterol (21% by weight) as human platelets. When exposed to high pressure-rapid decompression excursion, NES platelets did not undergo morphological shape change nor bind increased amounts of fibrinogen, while human platelets were significantly activated by the same excursion. These results demonstrate that while NES platelets are activated by the physical stimulus of cold temperatures, they are resistant to decompression-induced activation. We suggest that the composition of NES platelet membranes may play an important role in preventing pressure-related activation.
Ultrafiltration of xanthan gum fermentation broth : Process and economic analyses

Energy consumption and operating costs for xanthan recovery from dilute fermentation broth using ultrafiltration and alcohol precipitation were studied. Ultrafiltration can be used to concentrate xanthan fermentation broth from 2.5 to 15% (w/v) xanthan. The effects of xanthan concentration, transmembrane pressure difference and shear and pumping rates on the performance of ultrafiltration were studied. Engineering design equations for modelling filtrate flux and pressure drop during ultrafiltration of xanthan broth were also developed and used in the process analysis. The optimal conditions for maximum filtrate flux, minimum membrane costs and minimum energy costs were determined. It was found that up to 80% of the energy used in recovering xanthan gum from fermentation broth can be saved by using ultrafiltration to concentrate the broth before alcohol precipitation.
The Use of Bedside Pulmonary Mechanics with Synchronized, Assist- Control Ventilation to Achieve Optimal FRC and Lower Mean Airway Pressures (MAP)

The Use of Bedside Pulmonary Mechanics with Synchronized, Assist- Control Ventilation to Achieve Optimal FRC and Lower Mean Airway Pressures (MAP)
Calculated low density lipoprotein cholesterol levels frequently underestimate directly measured low density lipoprotein cholesterol determinations in patients with serum triglyceride levels ≤ 4.52 mmol/l: An analysis comparing the LipiDirect® magnetic LDL assay with the Friedewald calculation

Abstract Background Increased low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is an established risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent guidelines detail specific LDL–C cutpoints for therapeutic goals. In practice, LDL-C is usually derived from the Friedewald formula (FF). This calculation is known to be inaccurate with serum triglyceride (TG) concentrations > 4.52 mmol/l, however, its accuracy among relatively healthy patient cohorts with TG concentrations ≤ 4.52 mmol/l is less well studied. Methods We studied 661 ambulatory adults with TG concentrations ≤ 4.52 mmol/l and no overt CAD. Fasting venous lipid panels were obtained. LDL-C was calculated from the FF and also directly measured with the LipiDirect® Magnetic LDL assay. Linear regression and paired t -test analyses were performed. Results Calculated and directly measured LDL-C concentrations were significantly different (4.26 ± 0.88 vs. 4.83 ± 1.06 mmol/l respectively, p R = 0.90), the discrepancy between them increased linearly with increasing TG concentrations ( R = 0.67) and clinically important differences existed at normal or slightly increased TG concentrations. Concordant results for NCEP ATP-III risk categories were present for only 48.1% of samples. Conclusions Significant differences between calculated and directly measured LDL-C using the LipiDirect® Magnetic LDL assay exist in healthy subjects with TG ≤ 4.52 mmol/l. These differences are linearly related to TG concentrations and occur frequently at relatively low TG concentrations.
Conditional on Conditionality: IMF Program Design and Foreign Direct Investment

The article explores how International Monetary Fund (IMF) program design influences foreign direct investment inflows. The author argues that stricter IMF conditionality signals a program-participating government's commitment to economic reforms, as it incurs larger ex ante political cost and risks greater ex post political cost. Thus, the catalytic effect of an IMF program is conditional on conditionality: programs with stricter conditions catalyze more foreign direct investment than those with less stringent conditions. Empirical analysis of the IMF conditionality dataset supports the argument and shows that after accounting for IMF program participation, the more structural conditions included in an IMF program, the more foreign direct investment flows into the country.
Mechanical and Structural Contribution of Non-Fibrillar Matrix in Uniaxial Tension: A Collagen-Agarose Co-Gel Model

The mechanical role of non-fibrillar matrix and the nature of its interaction with the collagen network in soft tissues remain poorly understood, in part because of the lack of a simple experimental model system to quantify these interactions. This study’s objective was to examine mechanical and structural properties of collagen-agarose co-gels, utilized as a simplified model system, to understand better the relationships between the collagen network and non-fibrillar matrix. We hypothesized that the presence of agarose would have a pronounced effect on microstructural reorganization and mechanical behavior. Samples fabricated from gel solutions containing 1.0 mg/mL collagen and 0, 0.125, or 0.25% w/v agarose were evaluated via scanning electron microscopy, incremental tensile stress-relaxation tests, and polarized light imaging. While the incorporation of agarose did not dramatically alter collagen network morphology, agarose led to concentration-dependent changes in mechanical and structural properties. Specifically, resistance of co-gels to volume change corresponded with differences in fiber reorientation and elastic/viscoelastic mechanics. Results demonstrate strong relationships between tissue properties and offer insight into behavior of tissues of varying Poisson’s ratio and fiber kinematics. Results also suggest that non-fibrillar material may have significant effects on properties of artificial and native tissues even in tension, which is generally assumed to be collagen dominated.
On the use of discrete probability distributions in failure analysis: numerical aspects

Abstract The method of Discrete Probability Distributions (DPD), proposed not long ago, is recently being used in probabilistic risk and safety analysis as a powerful tool for propagating uncertainties. This paper describes the numerical techniques associated with this method. The paper also outlines the application of the DPD method to an assessment of steam-explosion-induced containment failure.
Screw fixation of the radial head: radiological assessment of the proximal radio-ulnar joint and average radial head diameter—an anatomic study

INTRODUCTION Anatomical study of 11 radii heads was done. METHOD A screw which is 2 mm longer than radial head diameter was used. Five views (AP with the forearm in supination, neutral rotation, pronation and LAT view the arm in supination and neutral rotation) were taken. In all cases the screw penetration was detected in one or two of the anteroposterior views. The lateral views were not sensitive to detect the screw penetration. For intraoperative assessment of screw length, the anteroposterior views in different position of rotation is sensitive method to detect penetration of the open reduction of head radius. Anteroposterior and lateral view with the arm in same position can miss some case of screw penetration. The diameter of the radial head was assessed. RESULT A difference in the radial head diameter between males and females was noticed. This can be reflected on the screw diameter.
The contribution of gluconeogenesis to glycogen repletion during glucose infusion in endotoxemia

Abstract Glycogen repletion rates in liver and skeletal muscle were quantitated, and the contribution of gluconeogenesis to hepatic glycogen repletion and glucose output were determined during glucose infusion in hemodynamically stable endotoxemic animals. Four hours after the injection of endotoxin (or saline), rats were infused with 235 μmol/min/kg of glucose (or saline) containing [6- 3 H]-glucose for up to four additional hours. Glucose infusion increased the plasma glucose concentration, which plateaued between 14 to 17 mmol/L, in the control rats. The glucose concentration of the endotoxin group receiving glucose was consistently greater than in control rats and failed to reach a plateau. The rate of muscle glycogen synthesis was not altered after endotoxin, but hepatic glycogen repletion was decreased by 55%. The percentage of glycogen repletion derived directly from blood glucose in liver and muscle was similar in control and endotoxin-treated rats receiving glucose. Therefore, the direct incorporation of glucose into glycogen appeared to predominate over the contribution by gluconeogenesis. However, gluconeogenesis continued during the glucose infusion in both control and endotoxemic animals. The calculated rate of total gluconeogenesis was 160% higher in the endotoxin glucose-infused rats compared to the control animals receiving glucose. This increase was due primarily to the attenuated suppression of hepatic glucose output in the endotoxin group (52 ± 4%) compared to controls (84 ± 3%). Thus, gluconeogenically derived glucose-6-phosphate appears to be diverted from hepatic glycogen storage to glucose output in endotoxin-treated rats during glucose infusion.
ELECTROCHEMICAL BEHAVIOR OF A PALLADIUM HYDROGEN DIFFUSION ELECTRODE

Abstract Electrochemical studies on palladium hydrogen-diffusion electrodes indicate that sufficiently high current densities can be achieved to make their use as hydrogen electrodes in fuel-cell applications practically feasible. Using a palladium oxide catalyst, formed by heating the electrode in air at 600°C, maximum current densities of 75 mA/cm2 at a solution temperature of 24°C and 140 mA/cm2 at 43·5°C were achieved.
Secondary structure of the phosphocarrier protein IIIGlc, a signal-transducing protein from Escherichia coli, determined by heteronuclear three-dimensional NMR spectroscopy.

Abstract IIIGlc is a signal-transducing phosphocarrier protein of the phosphoenolpyruvate:glycose phosphotransferase system of Escherichia coli. The secondary structure of IIIGlc is determined by heteronuclear (15N, 13C) three-dimensional NMR spectroscopy. Sequential, medium-range, and long-range nuclear Overhauser effects seen in NMR spectra are used to elucidate 11 antiparallel beta-strands and four helical segments. The medium-range nuclear Overhauser effect patterns suggest that the helices are either distorted alpha-helices or are of the 3(10) class. The amino acids separating the active-site histidine residues (His75 and His90) form two strands (Ala76-Ser81 and Val85-Phe91) of a six-stranded antiparallel beta-sheet that brings His90 and His75 in close proximity. Sequence similarities in IIIGlc and several other sugar-transport proteins suggest that the histidine residues within these proteins may be arranged in a similar manner. The 18-residue N-terminal peptide that precedes beta-strand Thr19-Ile22 in native IIIGlc is disordered and does not interact with the rest of the protein. Furthermore, removal of the N-terminal heptapeptide by a specific endopeptidase does not affect the structure of the remaining protein, thus explaining the phospho-acceptor activity of modified IIIGlc with the phospho-histidine-containing phosphocarrier protein of this system.
P-type calcium channels in rat central and peripheral neurons

The peptide toxin omega-Aga-IVA blocked P-type Ca2+ channel current in rat Purkinje neurons (KD approximately 2 nM) but had no effect on identified T-type, L-type, or N-type currents in a variety of central and peripheral neurons. omega-Aga-IVA blocked a substantial fraction of high threshold Ca2+ channel current in neurons from the hippocampal CA1 region (mean 26%), visual cortex (32%), spinal cord (45%), and dorsal root ganglia (23%), but less in hippocampal CA3 neurons (14%) and none in sympathetic neurons. In all cases, omega-Aga-IVA block could be reversed by a brief train of strong depolarizations. There was no overlap between current blocked by omega-Aga-IVA and the fractions blocked by dihydropyridines and omega-conotoxin GVIA, but not all current resistant to dihydropyridines and omega-conotoxin was blocked by omega-Aga-IVA. The results suggest that omega-Aga-IVA is highly selective for P-type channels and that many central neurons and some peripheral neurons possess substantial P-type current.
The design of Mismanor: creating a playable quest-based story game

Computer role-playing games (CRPGs) have strong narratives, but in general lack interesting and meaningful choices for the player within the story. As a result, the stories are not playable. In this paper we present an existence proof for a new approach to CRPG stories that addresses this, while providing details of our implementation. We designed and created a new playable experience, Mismanor, to test our theories of playable stories. We discuss the design decisions made as well as the details of the CiF-RPG and GrailGM systems used for complex quest generation and story management based on player's traits and the social state of the game world.
The Q175 Mouse Model of Huntington’s Disease Shows Gene Dosage- and Age-Related Decline in Circadian Rhythms of Activity and Sleep

Sleep and circadian disruptions are commonly reported by patients with neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting these may be an endophenotype of the disorders. Several mouse models of Huntington’s disease (HD) that recapitulate the disease progression and motor dysfunction of HD also exhibit sleep and circadian rhythm disruption. Of these, the strongest effects are observed in the transgenic models with multiple copies of mutant huntingtin gene. For developing treatments of the human disease, knock-in (KI) models offer advantages of genetic precision of the insertion and control of mutation copy number. Therefore, we assayed locomotor activity and immobility-defined sleep in a new model of HD with an expansion of the KI repeats (Q175). We found evidence for gene dose- and age-dependent circadian disruption in the behavior of the Q175 line. We did not see evidence for loss of cells or disruption of the molecular oscillator in the master pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The combination of the precise genetic targeting in the Q175 model and the observed sleep and circadian disruptions make it tractable to study the interaction of the underlying pathology of HD and the mechanisms by which the disruptions occur.
Sexual differences in the hypothalamic regulation of prolactin secretion.

Estrogen treatment of female rats ovariectomized when adult or of adult neonatally castrated males resulted, on the afternoon and evening of the 3rd day after initiation of treatment, in surges of prolactin secretion which reached 100 ng/ml. Males castrated when adult or androgen sterilized females ovariectomized when adult did not produce surges in response to estrogen treatment, prolactin levels remaining in the range of 10–20 ng/ml. In contrast to these sexual differences, baseline prolactin levels in untreated gonadectomized males or androgen sterilized females were significantly higher than in untreated gonadectomized females or neonatally castrated males. The surge of prolactin secretion in estrogen-treated female rats ovariectomized when adult was inhibited by a retrochiasmatic cut separating the anterior from the medial part of the hypothalamus. These results demonstrate fundamental sexual differences in the regulation of prolactin secretion. These differences may result from androgens inhibiting,...
Projected future increase in aging hepatitis C virus–infected liver transplant candidates: A potential effect of hepatocellular carcinoma

In the United States, the peak hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody prevalence of 4% occurred in persons born in the calendar years 1940-1965. The goal of this study was to examine observed and projected age-specific trends in the demand for liver transplantation (LT) among patients with HCV-associated liver disease stratified by concurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). All new adult LT candidates registered with the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network for LT between 1995 and 2010 were identified. Patients who had primary, secondary, or text field diagnoses of HCV with or without HCC were identified. There were 126,862 new primary registrants for LT, and 52,540 (41%) had HCV. The number of new registrants with HCV dramatically differed by the age at calendar year, and this suggested a birth cohort effect. When the candidates were stratified by birth year in 5-year intervals, the birth cohorts with the highest frequency of HCV were as follows (in decreasing order): 1951-1955, 1956-1960, 1946-1950, and 1941-1945. These 4 birth cohorts, spanning from 1941 to 1960, accounted for 81% of all new registrants with HCV. A 4-fold increase in new registrants with HCV and HCC occurred between the calendar years 2000 and 2010 in the 1941-1960 birth cohorts. By 2015, we anticipate that an increasing proportion of new registrants with HCV will have HCC and be ≥60 years old (born in or before 1955). In conclusion, the greatest demand for LT due to HCV-associated liver disease is occurring among individuals born between 1941 and 1960. This demand appears to be driven by the development of HCC in patients with HCV. During the coming decade, the projected increase in the demand for LT from an aging HCV-infected population will challenge the transplant community to reconsider current treatment paradigms.
Hydraulic Modeling of Extreme Hydrologic Events: Case Study in Southern Virginia

AbstractA comprehensive hydraulic modeling effort that was applied to two rural watersheds in southern Virginia is presented in this paper. The 10-, 50-, 100-, and 500-year storms and the probable maximum flood (PMF), are considered in this study with the objectives of assessing the impact of extreme hydrologic events through the generation of inundation maps, characterizing the sediment transport process under severe flooding conditions, and quantifying the uncertainty associated with the floodplains boundary roughness and its influence on the results. The employed methodology includes the construction of a river terrain model that combines geospatial and field-collected data, a calibration procedure based on regression equations and developed stage-discharge predictor curves, and unsteady flow simulations utilizing discharge hydrographs produced by an event-based hydrologic model. The results highlight the severe flooding conditions associated with the PMF and the necessity of considering it as the wors...
Identification of different lipid phases and calcium phosphate deposits in human carotid artery plaques by MAS NMR spectroscopy

Accumulation of lipids in atherosclerotic plaques causes progressive narrowing of the arterial lumen, often followed by thrombosis and ischemia. Currently several different methods, most requiring disruption of the plaque, are used to study the physical properties of lipids accumulated in plaques, and lipid composition is typically determined by chemical analysis of completely disrupted plaques. In this study, 13C magic angle spinning NMR spectroscopy (MAS NMR) was used to determine in situ the lipid composition and molecular organization of all lipid phases in human carotid artery plaques (ex vivo). Protocols were developed to observe signals from one lipid phase without interference from other phases. In addition, 31P MAS NMR detected calcification in plaques by the signals from inorganic phosphate complexed to calcium. Together, 13C and 31P MAS NMR comprise a powerful nondisruptive approach for determining the quantity and phase state of components in arterial plaques.
Radiochemical Synthesis, Rodent Biodistribution and Tumor Uptake, and Dosimetry Calculations of [11C] Methylated LY2181308

Purpose The aim of the study was to develop a rapid and reproducible method to label LY2181308, an antisense oligonucleotide to Survivin, with carbon-11 in order to study its in vivo biodistribution and tumor uptake in rodents and its human dosimetry based on baboon data.
Epidermal Dysplasia and Abnormal Hair Follicles in Transgenic Mice Overexpressing Homeobox Gene MSX-2

The homeobox gene Msx-2 is expressed specifically in sites of skin appendage formation. To explore its part in skin morphogenesis, we produced transgenic mice expressing Msx-2 under the control of the cytomegalovirus promoter. The skin of these transgenic mice was flaky, exhibiting desquamation and shorter hairs. Histologic analysis showed thickened epidermis with hyperproliferation, which was restricted to the basal layer. Hyperkeratosis was also evident. A wide zone of suprabasal cells were misaligned and coexpressed keratins 14 and 10. There was reduced expression of integrin β1 and DCC in the basal layer. Hair follicles were misaligned with a shrunken matrix region. The dermis showed increased cellularity and empty vacuoles. We suggest that Msx-2 is involved in the growth control of skin and skin appendages.
The Impact of Mother-Daughter and Father-Daughter Relationships on Drug Refusal Self-Efficacy Among African American Adolescent Girls in Urban Communities

This study yielded interesting findings on the effect of mother-daughter and father-daughter relationships on drug refusal self-efficacy for urban African American girls between the ages of 11 and 14. The questionnaire consisted of assessments on the quality of the girls’ mother and father relationships and their perceived ability to refuse drugs. The quality of the father-daughter relationship significantly predicted drug refusal self-efficacy for urban African American girls. Implications of these findings are discussed.
What is the field of biogeography, and where is it going?

Biogeography can be both an eclectic and a unifying discipline-eclectic by virtue of the diversity of technical and conceptual approaches from which it borrows; and unifying by virtue of drawing together inputs from diverse fields (ranging from molecular biology to ecology to historical geology) in its attempts to understand the spatial and temporal dynamics of organismal distributions. Here I offer several personal thoughts on the history and possible future of biogeography, with special reference to the role of molecular phylogeographic analyses in forging helpful connections between microevolutionary and macroevolutionary perspectives on biogeographic phenomena.
A Study on Flow and Heat Transfer in Strongly Curved U-Bend

The secondary flows inside a sharp U-bend are numerically studied by using several different turbulence models. The finite volume difference method incorporated with the higher-order bounded interpolation scheme has been employed in the present study. The present results reveal that non-linear low-Re k-ω model and the other models produce the quite different secondary flow patterns. It is shown that the present non-linear model produces satisfactory predictions of the flow development inside the sharp U-bend comparing with linear Launder-Sharma model.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Two functional components of the hippocampal memory system

There is considerable evidence that the hippocampal system contributes both to (1) the temporary maintenance of memories and to (2) the processing of a particular type of memory representation. The findings on amnesia suggest that these two distinguishing features of hippocampal memory processing are orthogonal. Together with anatomical and physiological data, the neuropsychological findings support a model of cortico-hippocampal interactions in which the temporal and representational properties of hippocampal memory processing are mediated separately. We propose that neocortical association areas maintain shortterm memories for specific items and events prior to hippocampal processing as well as providing the final repositories of long-term memory. The parahippocampal region supports intermediate-term storage of individual items, and the hippocampal formation itself mediates an organization of memories according to relevant relationships among items. Hippocampal-cortical interactions produce (i) strong and persistent memories for events, including their constituent elements and the relationships among them, and (ii) a capacity to express memories flexibly across a wide range of circumstances.
The policy/procedure manual, part IV: writing the manual

Purpose – This article's purpose is to offer a process for getting the policy/procedure manual written for libraries who seem to have little staff time to spare.Design/methodology/approach – The article relates the process to the scheme developed in the previous article and then outlines the process step‐by‐step.Findings – The finding is that with a judicious amount of time invested, any library can have a clear, well‐written policy/procedure manual which will promote highly desirable library goals.Practical implications – The process given here includes a built‐in mechanism for continuous improvement.Social implications – The process should result in better relations with constituents, higher staff productivity, and better staff morale.Originality/value – The value of the article is in encouraging library directors so that they can and should use staff to help create a working policy/procedure manual with a minimal time investment.
Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Behavior in Construction Executives

The study documented in this paper builds upon the concept of multiple intelligences by examining the need for a greater concept of intelligence within the construction profession. Specifically, the paper documents the study of 130 construction executives for their emotional intelligence (EI) as measured by their emotional quotient. In this study, the writers analyze the relationship between EI and leadership behaviors, specifically examining the relationship between EI and transformational leadership behaviors. The paper outlines the strengths and weaknesses found in executives in relation to developing transformational leadership behaviors. Through the use of established testing procedures, the researchers identify five specific components of EI that are related to transformational leadership behavior at a convincing level of statistical significance. Of particular importance is the identification of interpersonal skills and empathy as key EI behaviors that need additional attention during the developme...
A Method for Translunar Radio Communication

THE increase of human activity on the lunar surface that can be expected to follow the first manned landings will present a special problem in translunar communications. The lack of an ionosphere about the Moon, the lack of any appreciable atmosphere on the lunar surface, and the nearness of the lunar horizon, require solutions to this problem that may be somewhat different from those most easily available on the Earth's surface. Extended radio coverage about the lithosphere, such as occurs on Earth because of the atmospheric density gradient and temperature inversions, will not be possible because of the vanishingly low density of any gaseous envelope that may exist around the Moon.
Dispersion of Flexural Waves on Shells

Simple and accurate approximations are given for the dispersion properties of flexural waves on curved shells in vacuo. The results apply to shells of arbitrary double curvature, and are valid over the full frequency range of interest, from very high down to values below the generalized ring frequency.
Slender delta wing at high angles of attack - A flow visualization study

The flow past a delta wing of aspect ratio one is examined at angles of attack ranging from 25 deg to 90 deg. On the basis of detailed observations of the flow in a water channel, using laser-induced fluorescence, four angle of attack flow regimes are identified, in addition to the well known regime of a stable pair of leading edge vortices. These are: a regime where the two leading edge vortices break down independently, primarily into the spiral form; a regime where spiral and bubble breakdowns alternate periodically on the two sides of the wing, accompanied by an antisymmetric motion in the chordwise direction of the two points of breakdown; a regime where a single streamwise vortex springing from the wing apex alternates in sign at irregular intervals; and finally, a regime dominated by a wake bubble and the relatively small scale vortices arising from the instability of its boundary.
An integrated programmable quantum photonic processor for linear optics

We introduce a reconfigurable silicon quantum photonic network for implementing general linear optics transformations in the spatial mode basis. This network enables implementation of a range of quantum algorithms; we discuss the phase estimation algorithm.
Listener perception of respiratory-induced voice tremor.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the relation of respiratory oscillation to the perception of voice tremor. Method Forced oscillation of the respiratory system was used to simulate variations in alveolar pressure such as are characteristic of voice tremor of respiratory origin. Five healthy men served as speakers, and 6 clinically experienced women served as listeners. Speakers produced utterances while forced sinusoidal pressure changes were applied to the surface of the respiratory system. Utterances included vowels and sentences produced using usual loudness, pitch, quality, and rate, and vowels produced using different loudness, pitch, and quality. Perceptual tasks included detection threshold for voice tremor and pair comparison judgments in which listeners identified the sample with the greater magnitude of voice tremor. Results The mean detection threshold for voice tremor was 1.37 cmH2O (SD = 0.47) for vowel utterances and 2.16 cmH2O (SD = 1.52) for sentence utterances. Tremor ma...
Dynamic Balance of Preschool Children as Reflected by Performance on Beam-Walking Tasks

Abstract This investigation was designed to identify factors affecting the dynamic balance of 3-, 4-, and 5-year-old children (N = 60) through the use of beam-walking tasks. Beams of varying widths were placed at different heights and tilted at varying angles from the horizontal. Performance averaged over all conditions improved linearly with advancing age. More specifically, performance was most affected by the constraints placed on the children's dynamic base (beam width) and less affected by beam slope. The adverse effect was greater in the descent than in the ascent. The negative effect of beam height was substantial and was indicative of the influence of visual distractions or conflicting visual cues most evident in the younger children.