cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of the Escherichia coli SSB protein on the binding of Escherichia coli RecA protein to single-stranded DNA. Demonstration of competitive binding and the lack of a specific protein-protein interaction.

Abstract The effect of the Escherichia coli single-stranded DNA binding (SSB) protein on the stability of complexes of E. coli RecA protein with single-stranded DNA has been investigated through direct DNA binding experiments. The effect of each protein on the binding of the other to single-stranded DNA, and the effect of SSB protein on the transfer rate of RecA protein from one single-stranded DNA molecule to another, were studied. The binding of SSB protein and RecA protein to single-stranded phage M13 DNA is found to be competitive and, therefore, mutually exclusive. In the absence of a nucleotide cofactor, SSB protein binds more tightly to single-stranded DNA than does RecA protein, whereas in the presence of ATP-γ-S, RecA protein binds more tightly than SSB protein. In the presence of ATP, an intermediate result is obtained that depends on the type of DNA used, the temperature, and the magnesium ion concentration. When complexes of RecA protein, SSB protein and single-stranded M13 DNA are formed under conditions of slight molar excess of single-stranded DNA, no effect of RecA protein on the equilibrium stability of the SSB protein-single-stranded DNA complex is observed. Under similar conditions, SSB protein has no observed effect on the stability of the RecA protein-etheno M13 DNA complex. Finally, measurements of the rate of RecA protein transfer from RecA protein-single-stranded DNA complexes to competing single-stranded DNA show that there is no kinetic stabilization of the RecA protein-etheno M13 DNA complex by SSB protein, but that a tenfold stabilization is observed when single-stranded M13 DNA is used to form the complex. However, this apparent stabilizing effect of SSB protein can be mimicked by pre-incubation of the RecA protein-single-stranded M13 DNA complex in low magnesium ion concentration, suggesting that this effect of SSB protein is indirect and is mediated through changes in the secondary structure of the DNA. Since no direct effect of SSB protein is observed on either the equilibrium or dissociation properties of the RecA protein-single-stranded DNA complex, it is concluded that the likely effect of SSB protein in the strand assimilation reaction is on a slow step in the association of RecA protein with single-stranded DNA. Direct evidence for this conclusion is presented in the accompanying paper.
Large-Time Spatial Covariance of Concentration of Conservative Solute and Application to the Cape Cod Tracer Test

Most studies on conservative transport in stationary velocity fields have focused on the description of the concentration mean. In this work, we use a Lagrangian methodology to develop an analytical expression for the spatial covariance of the concentration, based on the central limit theorem and applicable to large times after injection. We use this expression to analyze the conservative tracer test data from the natural gradient experiment conducted at Cape Cod in 1985–1988, in which bromide was quickly injected into the aquifer and the concentration was measured at many locations at certain points in time. The parameters that determine the concentration mean had been estimated in previous studies. Here, the two-particle covariance matrix, needed to describe the concentration covariance function, is derived from the measurements through a maximum likelihood method. Then, the data are interpolated on a grid using simple kriging, and contour maps of the concentration estimates are plotted. The results of cross-validation indicate that the model is consistent with the field measurements and the kriging estimates appear realistic.
Judicial Reliance on the Restatement (3d) of the Law Governing Lawyers

Midway thorough its tentative draft stage, the Restatement of the Law Governing Lawyers has been widely relied on to explain judicial outcomes that involve lawyer activity.
Postmortem Brain Studies: Focus on Susceptibility Genes in Schizophrenia

The discovery of allelic variations in a number of genes that increase the risk for schizophrenia has led to numerous postmortem brain studies designed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. This review focuses on seven susceptibility genes (COMT, DTNBP1, GRM3, DISC1, NRG1, GAD1 and RGS4) and several of their molecular interactions. Studies of schizophrenia at this genetic/molecular level offer the hope of improved understanding of etiology/pathophysiology and new targets for treatment. Keywords: postmortem brain; schizophrenia; susceptibility genes
Coadsorption and interactions of O and H on Pd(111)

The interactions between oxygen and hydrogen coadsorbed on Pd(1 1 1) have been studied by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) in the temperature range from 25 to 230 K. Atomic oxygen without coadsorbed hydrogen forms a (2×2) structure in a continuous layer or in the form of islands. Individual oxygen atoms are also observed between the islands at low temperature. Coadsorbed hydrogen modifies the STM image contrast and enhances the diffusion of the isolated oxygen atoms. Above 120 K hydrogen modifies the structure of the oxygen islands, transforming them into rows of oxygen atom pairs at nearest neighbor distances. Above 150 K, hydrogen causes all (2×2)-O islands to convert into a (√3×√3) structure, which is stable up to 210 K. Above 210 K the (√3×√3) structure transforms back to (2×2) due to dissolution of the surface hydrogen into the bulk. During these transformations the number of oxygen atoms on the surface remains unchanged. Above 220 K the oxygen population decreases by reaction with dissolved hydrogen to form H2O which desorbs from surface.
Parthenogenesis and lesbian separatism: regenerating women's community through virgin birth in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s.

In 1 9 8 1 a t a c o n f e r e n c e on feminism and spirituality held in Cincinnati, Ohio, Julie Fullmoon Joy met a woman “who told me matterof-factly that her mother had been born parthenogenetically!” The literal meaning of parthenogenesis is “virgin birth.” Joy used the term to describe a pregnancy caused by an egg cell that spontaneously began the process of division. Having spent the previous several years researching methods for achieving parthenogenesis, Joy was thrilled. “This was the first time I’d heard a firsthand account of a parthenogenic birth, altho I’d believed for a long time that they do occur. It strengthened my belief that parthenogenesis is not just a process we can claim from the distant past for our futures, but one happening now that we can tap into.” Joy was not alone in her passionate desire to believe in parthenogenesis. An anonymous woman wrote to the Yellow Springs, Ohio, newsletter Daughter Visions that Joy published with another lesbian, Sarah Feinstein, that she believed her lover was pregnant through parthenogenesis. “I know that I will be ‘share mother’ to more than one parthenogenetic child,” she announced. Yet it is not only lesbians who have discussed immaculate
Distribution of Pseudo Spectral Velocity during the Northridge, California.earthquake of 17 January 1994

Abstract Contour maps of PSV (Pseudo Relative Velocity Spectrum) amplitudes during the Northridge, California, earthquake of 17 January 1994 are presented, based on strong motion recordings throughout the Los Angeles metropolitan area. These maps indicate that the PSV amplitudes do not attenuate uniformly with distance, but may be locally amplified or deamplified by interference of waves reflected from discontinuities and irregularities in the geological structure (boundaries of sedimentary basins, hills and mountains and vertical offsets of basements along faults). The contour maps in this paper represent one interpretation of the distribution of PSV amplitudes based on a limited number of unequally spaced data points, and thus do not capture all details of the actual ground motion (this would require a much denser distribution of strong motion stations). Yet, at locations where there were no strong motion recordings, based on these maps, one can estimate the ground motion more accurately than based on one or few close by recordings. These maps can be used by earthquake engineers to ‘construct’ a PSV spectrum at any site of interest within the area covered. They can also be used for validation of computer codes for simulation of ground motion in basins using simplified geologic models of the area covered by the maps in this paper.
Para-aminophenol and structurally related compounds as intermediates in lipofuscin formation and in renal and other tissue toxicities

P-aminophenol is considered a minor nephrotoxic metabolite of phenacetin and acetaminophen (paracetamol) in man. Our experiments show that p-aminophenol readily undergoes oxidative polymerization during incubation in human blood or plasma, to form melanin, as a component of soluble lipofuscin. Haemolysis accompanies this process in whole blood. Unmetabolized phenacetin and acetaminophen do not form soluble lipofuscins. Long-term excessive use of phenacetin or acetaminophen has been associated with chronic renal disease, haemolytic anaemia, and increased solid lipofuscin deposition in tissues. Excessive use of phenacetin has also been associated with cancer of renal pelvis and bladder. It appears to us that p-aminophenol and other o- and p-aminophenol metabolites of these drugs are intermediates not only in the etiology of chronic renal disease, but in the other developments as well. P-aminophenol and other ex(end)ogenous aminohydroxyphenyl, aminopolyhydroxyphenyl, polyhydroxyphenyl and polyaminophenyl compounds with these groups in ortho and para positions (such as 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, 6-aminodopamine, dopamine, p-phenylenediamine, etc.) can undergo autoxidations and metal-catalyzed and enzymatic oxidations in man to produce toxic (semi)quinones(imines), (semi)quinonediimines and reactive oxygen species. After depletion of antioxidants these very reactive (semi)quinones(imines) and (semi)quinonediimine intermediates, many of which are precursors of plasma soluble lipofuscins and melanoproteins, react with essential proteins, DNA, other macromolecules and can cause or contribute to renal and other tissue toxicity, haemolytic anaemia, neoplasia, and granular lipofuscin formation. The reactive oxygen species can also deplete antioxidants, damage essential proteins, DNA, and other macromolecules, and thereby injure cells and extracellular matrix.
Moderate and extended neonatal resuscitations occur in one in 10 births and require specialist cover 24 hours a day.

Aim: Neonatal resuscitation requires minimal equipment, but the immediate availability of expert staff accounts for the largest proportion of the costs. Despite this, staff requirements and timetables are currently planned without comprehensive epidemiologic data. The aim of this study was to evaluate the staffing required for neonatal resuscitations in the delivery room. Methods: We measured attendance for each specific role in a tertiary university-affiliated hospital and for four possible intervention levels: preparation time, basic paediatric care, moderate resuscitation and extended resuscitation. Results: Between 2005 and 2012, resuscitation staff attended 11 561 of the 32 799 births: 27.2% for preparation time, 17.7% for basic paediatric care, 6.4% for moderate resuscitation and 3.5% for extended resuscitation. Moderate and extended resuscitations occurred in roughly 10% of births and evenly during 24-h periods. Basic paediatric care levels were higher during weekday mornings, and extended resuscitations were uniformly distributed. However, there was a drop in all types of interventions around 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., when staff were changing shifts. Conclusion: Moderate and extended resuscitations occurred evenly over 24 h in roughly 10% of births, stressing the importance of having a highly competent neonatal team constantly available. All activities associated with resuscitation were lower during morning shift changes.
On the grain size softening in nanocrystalline materials

Materials Science and Engineering Department, North Carolina State University,Raleigh, NC 27695-7907, USA(Received December 17, 1999)(Accepted December 29, 1999)Keywords: Grain boundaries; Thermally activated; Hardness; AtomicIntroductionNanocrystalline materials with grain sizes in the range of 1–100 nm have been found to exhibit noveland often improved physical properties [1–4]. They are thus of considerable interest from bothscientific and technological viewpoints. In the present paper we consider the influence of grain size onthe flow stress (or corresponding hardness) of nanocrystalline materials, with focus on the grain sizesoftening (i.e., the so-called negative or inverse Hall-Petch effect) which has been observed at grainsizes ,;50 nm [5–12].The effect of grain size on the hardness of nanocrystalline materials has been reported to have theform shown schematically in Fig. 1 [5–15]. At the larger grain sizes the hardness increases withdecrease in grain size according to the well-known Hall-Petch relation (with the possibility that theHall-Petch constant k
Community college missions: A theoretical and historical perspective

This chapter analyzes various ways of conceptualizing the missions of the community college, describes how those missions have varied over time and across geographical regions, and examines how missions complement and conflict with one another.
Measuring the change in productive efficiency in telecommunications in the USA

Incentive regulation has become an important regulatory tool in the telecommunications industry in the USA. The issue explored here is whether incentive regulation has resulted in an increase in productive efficiency. After providing an overview of the nature of incentive regulation, a methodology for measuring technical efficiency and its change is introduced. This is a multiple‐output/multiple‐input distance function approach to measuring technical efficiency. The results of implementing this approach for 19 local exchange carriers for the 1988‐1999 period indicate that, in the production of local service, intrastate toll/access service, and interstate access to local loops, there was no change in technical efficiency between the 1988‐1990 and the 1991‐1999 periods, something that incentive regulation was specifically designed to promote.
Footshock-induced responses in ventral subiculum neurons are mediated by locus coeruleus noradrenergic afferents

The ventral subiculum (vSub) of the hippocampus is critically involved in mediating the forebrain's response to stress, particularly with regard to psychogenic stressors. Stress, in turn, is known to aggravate many psychiatric conditions including schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and drug abuse. Pathological alterations in hippocampal function have been identified in all these disorders; thus, it is of interest to understand how stress affects this brain region. The vSub receives dense projections from the stress-related locus coeruleus (LC); however, it is not known what role this input plays in signaling stressful stimuli. In this study, the direct LC innervation of the vSub was investigated as a potential mediator of stress responses in this region. To examine responses to an acute stressor, the effect of footshock on single vSub neurons was tested in rats. Footshock inhibited 13%, and activated 48% of neurons in this region. Importantly, responses to footshock were correlated with LC stimulation-evoked responses in single neurons, and LC inactivation blocked these responses. Furthermore, prazosin, an alpha-1 antagonist, reversed footshock-evoked inhibition, revealing an underlying activation. Inactivation of the basolateral amygdala (BLA) did not block phasic footshock-evoked activation; however, it reduced tonic activity in the vSub. These results suggest that the LC NE system plays an important role in mediating stress responses in the vSub. Footshock evokes both inhibition and excitation in the vSub, by activating noradrenergic inputs from the LC. These responses may contribute to stress adaptation; while an imbalance of this system may lead to pathological stress responses in mental disorders.
61 APPLICATION OF AN OPEN DEVICE TO VITRIFY EQUINE IN VITRO-PRODUCED EMBRYOS

Recently, we reported a >50% normal pregnancy rate for vitrified/warmed equine expanded blastocysts after blastocoele collapse via micromanipulation and vitrification in fine-diameter (250-µm) pipettes (Choi et al. 2011 Theriogenology 76, 143). This vitrification system has also yielded high pregnancy rates after transfer of blastocysts produced by intracytoplasmic sperm injection and embryo culture (IVP embryos) in our clinical program (unpublished data). However, the pipettes are difficult to load and must be manipulated to expel the embryo after warming. To improve this technique, we modified the pipettes by cutting their tip lengthwise and flaming the surface smooth, and we investigated the use of these open devices (designated “Sujo”) for vitrification of equine IVP embryos. Embryos were held in 1.5 M ethylene glycol in DMEM/F-12 + 20% FBS for 5 min; then moved to 7 M ethylene glycol and 0.6 M galactose; and within 1 min loaded on a Sujo with a minimum amount of medium, plunged into liquid N2, and inserted into a 5-mL cryovial or 0.5-mL straw before being stored in liquid N2. Embryos were warmed by placing the Sujo tip in 0.3 M sucrose in base medium (Dulbecco’s phosphate buffered saline with 0.1% glucose, 36 mg L–1 of pyruvate, and 0.4% BSA). Embryos were left in this medium for 1 min and then moved to 0.15 M and then 0 M sucrose in base medium for 5 min each. In Experiment 1, we examined whether embryos stayed on the Sujo device. A total of 23 cleaved embryos were vitrified individually on Sujos; all of them were successfully recovered after warming. In Experiment 2, 18 IVP blastocysts were vitrified on Sujos (1 to 3 per Sujo), then warmed and cultured in 500-µL DMEM/F-12 + 20% FBS in an atmosphere of 5.5% CO2, 5% O2, and 89.5% N2 at 38.2°C for 3 days. All 18 embryos grew in vitro. The average percentage increase in diameter (mean ± SEM) for embryos vitrified at 1 per Sujo was 73% (from 167 ± 4 to 289 ± 16 µm, 11 embryos); 2 per Sujo, 98% (from 187 ± 27 to 387 ± 106 µm, 4 embryos); and 3 per Sujo, 96% (from 176 ± 4 to 342 ± 51 µm, 3 embryos). There was no significant difference in percentage growth among treatments (one-way ANOVA; SigmaPlot 11.0). In Experiment 3, 11 IVP embryos were vitrified after loading singly on Cryolocks®, then warmed and cultured as above. One embryo did not grow; the remaining 10 embryos grew an average of 73% (from 170 ± 3 to 294 ± 31 µm). In a preliminary study, 2 in vivo-recovered blastocysts (277 and 411 µm) were vitrified singly on Sujos and then warmed and cultured in vitro for 24 h under the above conditions increased in diameter to 594 and 729 µm, respectively. In conclusion, an open device can be used effectively for vitrification of equine IVP embryos. Further studies are needed to determine the efficiency of this system for vitrification of expanded equine blastocysts and the pregnancy rate of these embryos after transfer. Supported by the American Quarter Horse Foundation, the Link Equine Research Endowment Fund, Texas A&M University, and by Ms. Kit Knotts.
Responses of lean and obese Zucker rats to centrally administered leptin

Obese (Lepr(fa)/Lepr(fa)) Zucker rats have a missense mutation in the leptin receptor gene. One amino acid substitution in the extracellular domain common to all known leptin receptor proteins results from this mutation. Obese Zucker rats are unable to respond behaviorally to leptin which is peripherally administered. However, conflicting reports exist on whether obese Zucker rats can respond to centrally administered leptin. The purpose of this study was to determine whether obese Zucker rats responded behaviorally and metabolically to intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) administered leptin and to compare the responses of lean and obese Zucker rats. We found that both lean and obese Zucker rats had similar body weight and food intake responses when administered a single i.c.v. leptin injection in a range of doses (1.25, 2.5, 5, and 10 microg), as well as daily i.c.v. administered leptin for five consecutive days. Both single and daily leptin administration also decreased respiratory quotient (RQ) similarly in lean and obese Zucker rats, indicating mobilization of fat as an energy source for leptin-treated rats. After withdrawal of daily leptin treatment, lean and obese Zucker rats exhibited different recovery responses. It is concluded that obese Zucker rats can respond to exogenous leptin when leptin is delivered into the brain ventricles.
Plasmodesmata between Hyphal Cells of Geotrichum candidum

Electron-microscopic studies of three isolates of Geotrichum candidum from plants and one isolate from man showed the fine structure to be similar to other closely related, yeastlike fungi. Structures were observed that appeared similar to plasmodesmata present in higher plants.
Dispersion of titanium dioxide agglomerates in viscous media

Abstract The dispersion behavior of titanium dioxide agglomerates in viscous media was studied. Under application of shear within a cone-and-plate device, the titanium dioxide agglomerates primarily dispersed by an erosion process in which small fragments separate from the surface. The cohesiveness of unwetted powder was quantified using a compression test method. In some cases, the shear stress necessary to produce erosion was found to be an order of magnitude smaller than the measured cohesivity. Medium infiltration within agglomerates was assessed through observation of penetration of the medium into powder compacts. The kinetics of the erosion process was highly sensitive to the overall porosity of the agglomerates. In the case of high porosity, the erosion rate depends on the speed of medium infiltration within the agglomerate, and the strength of the applied shear stress. A relatively wide size distribution of fragments was observed. For low-porosity agglomerates, the erosion process depends on the magnitude of shear stress, the cohesive strength of the agglomerates, and agglomerate—medium interactions. A narrower distribution of fragments, having smaller mean size, was observed.
Effects of sex and age on DMBA:DNA binding in epidermis of SENCAR mice following topical administration of dimethylbenz[a]anthracene

Epidermal DMBA:DNA adduct formation was determined in male and female SENCAR mice following short-term exposure to 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA). While qualitatively the adduct profiles are similar in both male and female mice, male mice generally had higher levels of each individual adduct as well as a greater total binding of DMBA to DNA at 6 and 48 h after topical administration. Additionally, the effect of age on total DMBA:DNA binding was examined in epidermis of male mice. While there appeared to be some effect of age on total DMBA:DNA binding at 6 h after administration, these differences were not statistically significant. However, DMBA:DNA binding at 48 h was found to vary significantly with age. The levels of binding were greatest between 40 and 54 days of age. These studies demonstrate the importance of considering both the age and sex of animals when examining the metabolism and binding of DMBA and in muscle skin tumor induction experiments using DMBA as an initiator.
A NOTE ON ENDOGENOUS VARIABLES IN HOUSEHOLD VEHICLE UTILIZATION EQUATIONS

Abstract This paper presents an empirical analysis of the statistical bias resulting from the endogeniety of vehicle specific attributes in econometric models of household vehicle utilization. Using data from a recent U.S. household survey, both corrected and uncorrected vehicle utilization models are estimated. A comparison of these estimation results reflects the substantial bias in model coefficients, price elasticities and income elasticities that can result if the endogeneity of vehicle specific attributes is not considered.
Robust estimation when more than one variable per equation of condition has error

SUMMARY It is well known that, in the errors-in-variables estimation problem, the results will have unnecessary asymptotic bias unless the algorithm is properly formulated. Similar difficulties can be expected with robust estimation techniques that are based on extending least squares to a noneuclidean metric. This paper presents an algorithm for robust estimation for the nonlinear model errors-in-variables case. The properties of the estimates produced by the algorithm are investigated, and a numerical example using data on galaxies is given.
Distributed multi-agent information filtering—A comparative study

Information filtering is a technique to identify, in large collections, information that is relevant according to some criteria (e.g., a user's personal interests, or a research project objective). As such, it is a key technology for providing efficient user services in any large-scale information infrastructure, e.g., digital libraries. To provide large-scale information filtering services, both computational and knowledge management issues need to be addressed. A centralized (single-agent) approach to information filtering suffers from serious drawbacks in terms of speed, accuracy, and economic considerations, and becomes unrealistic even for medium-scale applications. In this article, we discuss two distributed (multi-agent) information filtering approaches, that are distributed with respect to knowledge or functionality, to overcome the limitations of single-agent centralized information filtering. Large-scale experimental studies involving the well-known TREC (Text REtrieval Conference) data set are also presented to illustrate the advantages of distributed filtering as well as to compare the different distributed approaches.
Engineering Design Thinking, Teaching, and Learning

This paper is based on the premises that the purpose of engineering education is to graduate engineers who can design, and that design thinking is complex. The paper begins by briefly reviewing the history and role of design in the engineering curriculum. Several dimensions of design thinking are then detailed, explaining why design is hard to learn and harder still to teach, and outlining the research available on how well design thinking skills are learned. The currently most-favored pedagogical model for teaching design, project-based learning (PBL), is explored next, along with available assessment data on its success. Two contexts for PBL are emphasized: first-year cornerstone courses and globally dispersed PBL courses. Finally, the paper lists some of the open research questions that must be answered to identify the best pedagogical practices of improving design learning, after which it closes by making recommendations for research aimed at enhancing design learning.
Cultured Schwann cells assemble normal-appearing basal lamina only when they ensheathe axons

Previous work demonstrated that Schwann cells (SCs) must interact with nerve cells (NCs) in order to generate their basal lamina (BL) in culture (M. B. Bunge, A. K. Williams, and P. M. Wood, 1982, Dev. Biol. 92, 449-460). The present study was undertaken to determine if this interaction requires proximity of NCs to SCs. Coverslips carrying isolated SCs were placed into culture dishes containing normally contacting SCs + NCs, NCs alone, or SCs alone and were maintained in these dishes for 3-4 weeks in medium known to foster the differentiation of axon-related SCs (BL formation, myelination). The SCs on the coverslip were not allowed to contact the cells in the culture dish. In other experiments, SCs isolated on coverslips were simply cultured in medium conditioned by contacting SCs + NCs, NCs alone, or SCs alone. The accumulation of BL components was monitored by light microscopic immunocytochemistry and the assembly of BL structure assessed by electron microscopy. When SCs were cocultured with but not contacted by neurons, immunostaining for BL constituents revealed a patchy deposition of material in sharp contrast to the linear deposition observed on axon-related SCs. Electron microscopy of these isolated SCs revealed short segments of BL, strands or clumps of BL-like material extending away from the cell surface, and accumulation of this material between cells. A greater number of isolated SCs were immunostained when grown with contacting SCs + NCs than with NCs or SCs. The conditioned medium experiments yielded similar results; only patchy BL was observed and more immunostaining was detected on isolated SCs when the medium had been conditioned by contacting SCs + NCs than by NCs alone or SCs alone. Immunostaining was less overall in the conditioned medium experiments than in the cell coculture work. In addition, standard SC + NC cultures grown in differentiation-supporting medium were studied by electron microscopy. SCs that were not contacted by axons but were positioned between fascicles of normally contacting SCs + NCs were identified under phase microscopy and then examined for the presence of BL. These SCs exhibited only occasional segments of BL or detached BL-like material. Lastly, within differentiated fascicles, nonensheathing SCs were compared with neighboring myelinating SCs that were in substantial contact with axons. BL-deficient nonensheathing SCs were found directly adjacent to axons and BL-coated myelinating SCs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Equilibrium dumping with endogenous anti-dumping penalties

The author develops a quantity setting model of firm behavior that captures the twofold effects of a dumping margin between market periods. The dumping margin determines the probability of getting charged with dumping and the size of the fine imposed, if caught. Both the probability of being charged with dumping and the size of the fine associated with dumping are endogenized. Profits are inter-temporally linked. The solution concept is the pure strategy Markov Perfect Equilibrium. The results are appealing: a margin of dumping that recurs is relatively easy to find under uncertain enforcement. The author finds reason to believe that the current anti-dumping legal structure is not likely to cause either an end to dumping or price equalization.
Fractures as collections of cracks

Abstract A single fracture can be thought of as two rough surfaces in partial contact. Observations show that the noncontacting regions are patches of widely varying size and shape which are characterized by an aperture which is much less than any of the in-plane dimensions. A further idealization is therefore to assume that the regions of contact are “welded” and the noncontacting patches are replaced by cracks. The deformation of cracks arranged in simple two-dimensional (2-D) geometries can be described analytically. Solutions for noninteracting and interacting cracks are reviewed, and the analogy with solutions for ubiquitously cracked “intact” rock is discussed. Using the model of a fracture as a two-dimensional collection of cracks, expressions for fracture stiffness, flow of a single phase fluid through a fracture, and propagation of elastic waves across a fracture are formulated. Comparison with observations shows that this simple model provides a consistent description of many first order attributes of the mechanical deformation and fluid flow in fractures under normal stress, and the velocity and amplitude of seismic waves propagating in fractured rock.
Using the microsoft kinect for 3D map building and teleoperation

This paper describes the use of the Microsoft Kinect for building three dimensional maps for use in teleoperation. Though these maps are being used for teleoperation in this paper, these map building techniques could also be applied in localization for navigation or robot path planning. The Kinect is a relatively new depth sensor that has become popular in the field of robotics, often replacing significantly more expensive systems like tilting laser range finders and stereoscopic vision systems. Two main sources of error in the map making are investigated, random and systematic error from the depth sensor and uncertainty in the navigation solution of the vehicle. Systematic and random error in the Kinect has previously been described in the literature [1] and this paper looks at how these errors affect the users ability to do mapping and offers some practical solutions. The teleoperation system design around this map making process is presented, and it builds on existing work [2] using octrees as the storage for the maps.
The role of cations in the organization of chloroplast membranes.

The influence of monovalent and divalent cations on the structure of chloroplasts has been investigated. Parameters of structure such as transmission, light scattering, scattering, fluorescence of chlorophyll and 8-anilinonaphthalene-1-sulfonic acid (ANS), were compared with electron microscopy under conditions of varying salt concentration. Cations are required to stabilize the association of membranes in the grana. A striking correlation exists between the separation of chloroplast grana membranes into individual thylakoids and a marked increase in chlorophyll fluorescence at long wavelength (734 nm) and other parameters of chloroplast membrane structure. The influence of cations on causing a reversible cementing of individual thylakoid membranes together into grana was relatively nonspecific but divalent cations were much more effective than monovalent ions on a concentration basis. It is concluded that hydrophobic rather than electrostatic interactions predominate in determination of the grana structure. The results are relevant to functional studies of the coupling of electron flow between the two photosystems and of energy conservation in the form of ion gradients and ATP.
Fratricide in Megachile rotundata, a non-social megachilid bee: impartial treatment of sibs and non-sibs

Experiments simulating spring emergence and partial second generation emergence of the alfalfa leafcutting bee were conducted to determine if emerging bees distinguish full sibs from non-kin and the conditions under which fratricide occurs. Using glass tubes and different incubation treatments, bees were forced to emerge behind sibs or non-sibs whose development had been delayed by 4 or 17 days. Under these conditions, emerging bees had three choices: (1) to destroy their nest mate to exit the tube; (2) to circumvent their nest mate to exit; and (3) to return to their own cells and await the emergence of their nest mate. Emerging bees made no distinction between sibs and non-sibs: non-sibs were not destroyed more often than sibs. This suggests that nest mates are routinely treated as sibs. The emergence behavior of bees was governed by the developmental stage of their nest mates: when development of nest mates was delayed by 4 days, emerging bees most often returned to their cells and waited. Conversely, when development of nest mates was delayed by 17 days, emerging bees either destroyed or circumvented them. Due to their small size, males circumvented nest mates more often than females did. Thus, emerging bees avoided killing their nest mates, except in situations where suicide was the only other option. These results seem consistent with models predicting the conditions under which extreme selfish behavior and kin recognition will occur.
Internet-Enabled Linkages: Balancing Strategic Considerations with Operational Efficiencies in Business-to-Business Marketing

ABSTRACT The fast-paced development of the Internet as a mechanism for efficient communication and transactions has led to the growth of diverse forms of electronic business-to-business marketing linkages. Such linkages have profound implications for the development and exploitation of newer constellations of supply chains as well as for the re-design and re-orientation of existing ones. Newer sources of value and competitive advantage enable firms to better manage their existing relationships with suppliers and customers. Moreover, firms are now equipped with better tools for engaging in advantageous alliances with other firms possessing complementary resources. While various Internet-based business-to-business (B2B) business models have failed in recent times, most existing B2B exchanges can be classified into a general typology based on the type of linkages, access and governance. Three major types of B2B buyer-seller linkages are identified as “net marketplaces,” “industry consortia,” and “virtual pri...
Pharyngeal/upper esophageal sphincter pressure dynamics in humans. Effects of pharmacologic agents and thermal stimulation

Extensive physiological studies of swallowing have been carried out in laboratory animals; however, similar studies in humans have been limited by available technology. In this study we describe the use of a solid-state circumferential sphincter transducer to define manometric characteristics of the human pharynx and upper esophageal sphincter (UES). Effects of pharmacologic agents and thermal stimulation are also described. We studied nine normal volunteers on three separate days. All studies were done in the upright position and consisted of a station pull-through of the UES and six wet swallows with the sphincter transducer in the most proximal segment of the UES and a posteriorly oriented single transducer 5 cm proximal in the pharynx. Baseline studies preceded all drug studies. Effects of bethanechol were studied on day 1, cold stimulation and benzonatate on day 2, edrophonium and atropine on day 3. The UES resting pressure showed large intrasubject day-to-day variations; however, mean values did not differ. There were no effects on UES relaxation or swallow coordination with any of the pharmacologic agents, although benzonatate produced multiple pharyngeal contractions.
C. elegans DAF-18/PTEN mediates nutrient-dependent arrest of cell cycle and growth in the germline

The molecular pathways that link nutritional cues to developmental programs are poorly understood. Caenorhabditis elegans hatchlings arrest in a dormant state termed "L1 diapause" until food is supplied. However, little is known about what signal transduction pathways mediate nutritional status to control arrest and initiation of postembryonic development. We report that C. elegans embryonic germline precursors undergo G2 arrest with condensed chromosomes and remain arrested throughout L1 diapause. Loss of the DAF-18/PTEN tumor suppressor bypasses this arrest, resulting in inappropriate germline growth dependent on the AGE-1/PI-3 and AKT-1/PKB kinases. DAF-18 also regulates an insulin/IGF-like pathway essential for longevity and dauer larva formation. However, DAF-16/FoxO, which is repressed by this pathway, is not required for germline arrest in L1 diapause. Thus, these findings indicate that quiescence of germline development during L1 diapause is not a passive consequence of nutrient deprivation, but rather is actively maintained by DAF-18 through a pathway distinct from that which regulates longevity and dauer formation.
Flavor Intensity as Related to the Creatine and Creatinine Content of Microwave and Conventionally Cooked Beef

No relationship between sensory thresholds of panelists for creatine and their ability to detect differences in flavor intensity of beef prepared in a consumer type microwave oven (120V; 550 watts) and a conventional oven was found. The flavor of beef cooked in an institutional type microwave oven (220V; 1050 watts) was rated more intense than conventionally cooked beef. However, the flavor of beef prepared in a consumer type microwave oven (115V; 500 watts) was evaluated as less intense than conventionally cooked beef. The creatinine content of microwave cooked roasts was greater than conventionally prepared roasts. Correlation between flavor intensity and creatinine content was statistically significant in only one part of this research.
Integrated use of biomarkers in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis for assessing off-shore gas platforms in the Adriatic Sea: Results of a two-year biomonitoring program

Despite a large number of gas platforms existing in the Adriatic Sea, which is a semi-enclosed basin characterized by a slow turnover rate and increasing industrial as well as other anthropogenic activities, the effects of these structures on the aquatic ecosystem require further investigation. Since 1998, multidisciplinary studies have been performed by CNR-ISMAR to comply with legislation and to support the development of protocols for the monitoring of offshore activities in the Adriatic Sea. The present study was developed to implement a biomonitoring plan to assess the ecotoxicological effects of the extraction activities of an off-shore gas platform. Biomarkers were evaluated in mussels collected from the platform in relation to physiological stress, DNA damage, cellular damage, oxidative stress and exposure effects. Organic contaminants and trace element bioaccumulation were also assessed in the soft body of the mussels to correlate bioaccumulation of pollutants with biomarker responses. The results indicate an absence of platform-related environmental stress.
The ability of horse serum to support an in vitro antibody response

It was found that 10% horse serum (HrS) could be used to support an in vitro antibody response to SRBC. It could replace the fetal calf serum (FCS) in both the culture medium and the nutritional feed. The response could be improved by the addition of 2-mercaptoethanol or by including both FCS (5%) and HrS (5%) in the culture medium.
Middle-class residential mobility in Mexico City: Toward a cross-cultural theory

Few social-psychological theories of intraurban residential mobility have been offered, despite a number of empirical studies of personal motives. A complete explanation of residential mobility would interrelate macroscopic economic factors with household preferences. A cross-cultural socio-psychological model is presented as a step toward a comprehensive theory. Data from an exploratory study of middle-class Mexico City residents are used to test the model. Results suggest that middle-class Mexicans decide to move because of space needs accompanying life-cycle changes, desire for home ownership, and environmental reasons. Home selection was primarily a function of availability, cost, and terms. Unlike North Americans, suburban Mexicans were uninterested in community activities and maintained close contact with relatives; central-city respondents enjoyed living in the city despite dissatisfaction with residence or neighborhood. Most would avoid the suburbs because of communication problems and distance from relatives. Results support the model and justify further testing and development.
Common errors in forensic pediatric pathology

Medicolegal autopsies in the pediatric age group occur with some frequency. Despite the time-honored and often quoted address by Professor Alan Moritz many years ago, which described mistakes in the forensic autopsy of adults, a comparable discussion of infants and children has not been forthcoming. In this review, ten categories of potential and actual errors are listed, some of which are similar to those given by Moritz. The smaller size of infants as well as their unique growth and development creates problems separate from those in adult autopsies and creates opportunities for mistakes in observation and interpretation. The thorough documentation of all findings, the gathering and proper storage of evidence, and the availability of essential materials (e.g., scene investigation data, complete medical records, all microscopic slides, total laboratory analyses--especially toxicology) help to preclude errors of both omission and commission.
No acute toxicity to Uca pugnax, the mud fiddler crab, following a 96-h exposure to sediment-bound permethrin.

In coastal areas, the application of pyrethroid insecticides and the resulting sediment residues pose a potential threat to marine benthic ecosystems. Pyrethroids cause acute toxicity and exhibit a wide range of sublethal effects on fish and crustaceans when exposure is aqueous. Fiddler crabs that inhabit salt marsh sediment are sensitive to sediment-associated pollutants and serve as a sentinel species for xenobiotic exposure. We exposed adult U. pugnax to salt marsh sediment spiked with different 60% trans/40% cis permethrin concentrations for 96 h, and evaluated changes in oxygen consumption rate, hemolymph osmolarity, and glutathione S-transferase activity (GST) following exposure. Marsh sediment was not lethal to U. pugnax at permethrin concentrations of 100–10,000 μg/kg. Sediment-bound permethrin had no significant effect on respiration and osmoregulation. Exposure caused an induction of hepatopancreas GST in a dose-dependent manner. Gill and midgut tissues showed induction at permethrin concentrations at 10,000 μg/kg. We conclude that short term exposure to permethrin-contaminated sediment does not pose a significant threat to this species or impact respiration and osmoregulation. Furthermore, increased GST activity allows us to evaluate this enzyme's induction as a generalist biomarker for sediment-bound pyrethroid exposures. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2008.
Electrochemically Active Dendritic−Linear Block Copolymers via RAFT Polymerization: Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrodeposition Properties

We describe a series of well-defined dendritic−linear block copolymer architectures via the reversible addition−fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization technique. Using dendritic chain transfer agents (CTA)s possessing a single dithioester moiety at the focal point, RAFT polymerization was carried out to attach polystyrene (PS) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) chains of controlled lengths by kinetic control. To provide electrochemical functionality, the dendritic CTAs were designed with carbazole moieties at the periphery of the structures. The results on the electrochemical polymerization of the carbazole moieties at the periphery of the dendritic component of the block copolymers reveal quantitative cyclic depositions with changes in viscoelastic properties of the deposited films as monitored by the electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance technique. The electroactive dendritic blocks proved to be an effective electrochemically active macromonomer for the electrodeposition of these str...
The efficacy of systemic antibiotics in the treatment of granulating wounds

Abstract The efficacy of systemic antibiotics in the treatment of granulating wounds has been evaluated. A reproducible laboratory animal model on a chronic granulating wound has been developed and used to evaluate the ability of systemically administered antibiotics to decrease the bacterial flora in the wound. No significant reduction in bacteria was found. This appears to be due to the absence of the antibiotic in the granulation tissue. It is suggested that the fibrin base of a granulating wound may prevent adequate antibiotic penetration into the wound. From this study, therefore, it is suggested that systemic antibiotics have no role in attempting to decrease the bacterial count in a granulating wound.