cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genomic Characterization of a Testis-Specific TFIIS (TCEA2) Gene

Abstract There is a family of genes encoding TFIIS-related proteins in human cells. We have focused upon the genomic organization of one family member expressed primarily in the testis. This gene encodes a transcription elongation factor similar to but distinct from that encoded by a previously reported TFIIS gene. Also in contrast to the previously reported TFIIS gene, the testis gene contains introns. All exon–intron junction sequences match the consensus GT/AG rule. The gene consists of seven exons and six introns with a total size of approximately 7 kb. The nucleotide sequence of the 5′ flanking region of the testis TFIIS gene contains several potential regulatory factor-binding sites, not all of which are present in the TFIIS gene, whose expression is nearly ubiquitous. Elucidation of the full structure of the testis TFIIS gene should be useful for determining its chromosomal localization and its potential role in the regulation of gene expression in human tissues.
Modeling regulation mechanisms in the immune system.

Abstract We develop a mathematical framework for modeling regulatory mechanisms in the immune system. The model describes dynamics of key components of the immune network within two compartments: lymph node and tissue. We demonstrate using numerical simulations that our system can eliminate virus-infected cells, which are characterized by a tendency to increase without control (in absence of an immune response), while tolerating normal cells, which are characterized by a tendency to approach a stable equilibrium population. We experiment with different combinations of T cell reactivities that lead to effective systems and conclude that slightly self-reactive T cells can exist within the immune system and are controlled by regulatory cells. We observe that CD8+ T cell dynamics has two phases. In the first phase, CD8+ cells remain sequestered within the lymph node during a period of proliferation. In the second phase, the CD8+ population emigrates to the tissue and destroys its target population. We also conclude that a self-tolerant system must have a mechanism of central tolerance to ensure that self-reactive T cells are not too self-reactive. Furthermore, the effectiveness of a system depends on a balance between the reactivities of the effector and regulatory T cell populations, where the effectors are slightly more reactive than the regulatory cells.
Carbon nanotubes: Sorting out left from right

Single-walled carbon nanotubes with a helical twist have been separated into samples enriched in either the left- or right-handed forms. Many exciting experiments await these sorted nanotubes, but first we need to decide what to call them.
Comparative outcomes of laparoscopic and open adrenalectomy for adrenocortical carcinoma: single, high-volume center experience.

Purpose Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and clinically aggressive cancer. Previous studies reported increased recurrence rates associated with laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA). We evaluated a single-center experience of LA versus open adrenalectomy (OA) for the management of ACC.
Psychiatric Comorbidity in Cocaine Dependence: Diverging Trends, Axis II Spectrum, and Gender Differentials

One hundred consecutive admissions to an intensive outpatient cocaine treatment clinic in Camden, Nf, were assigned DSM-IH-R Axis I and II psychiatric diagnoses by means of the FCID. Prevalence rates for non-substance-use Axis I disorders were equivalent to expected population base rates. By far the most common diagnoses were on Axis II (73% of subjects), with over one-third of subjects receiving more than one personality disorder diagnosis, frequently crossing DSM-III-R “clusters.” In the distribution of psychopathology, certain gender differences were noted. The authors discuss implications for the clinical management and treatment of cocaine-addicted individuals in urban environments.
The effects of psychoeducation on thought-action fusion, thought suppression, and responsibility

The current study examined the effects of a psychoeducational intervention designed to target thought-action fusion (TAF) on TAF, thought suppression, and responsibility cognitions. 139 undergraduate students (25 male; 114 female) who were relatively high in TAF with respect to their peers served as participants. Immediately following intervention, individuals who had received psychoeducation regarding TAF reported significantly lower morality TAF scores than individuals who had received psychoeducation regarding thoughts in general and individuals in the control group. At the two-week follow-up assessment, the likelihood TAF scores of those who had received psychoeducation regarding TAF were significantly lower than those of the control group. In addition, the group that received psychoeducation regarding TAF was the only group that did not experience a significant increase in thought suppression from baseline to post-intervention, and was also the only group to experience an increase in both frequency of and belief in low-responsibility thoughts from baseline to follow-up. Implications are discussed.
A (p, γ0) study of the decay of isospin analogue resonances from 13–16 MeV in 89Y

Abstract Analogue resonances in the reaction 88 Sr+p have been observed in γ 0 , p 0 , p 1 , p 2 , p 3 exit channels simultaneously in the range E p = 5.85–8.4 MeV, using 25–100 keV steps. Gamma-ray angular distributions were measured for the 6.10 and 7.51 MeV (lab) resonances. Radiative widths for the 6.10, 7.00–7.07 (unresolved) and 7.51 MeV resonances of 11±4, 7±3 and 14±5 eV were deduced. These E1 decays are hindered with respect to single-particle transition rates by factors of 0.08, 0.03 and 0.05, respectively, even after taking into account the 2 T +1 isospin reduction. Factors which may contribute to such hindrances are discussed. An asymmetry in the (p, γ 0 ) yield curve for the 6.10 MeV s-wave resonance is thought to arise from interference with the giant dipole resonance. A 3 2 + assignment is made for the 7.51 MeV resonance and its analogue, the 2.455 MeV level in 89 Sr. A strong resonance in the p 2 channel to the 3 − 2.74 MeV level in 88 Sr at E p = 7.92 MeV which does not resonate in the entrance channel was found.
Studies on engineering crystallizability by mutation of surface residues of human thymidylate synthase

Abstract A study was made to determine the efficacy of altering a protein's intrinsic solvation properties to improve its crystallization properties. In order to change its solubility properties, twelve mutants of thymidylate synthase (TS) were made altering single amino acids at eleven different positions on the protein surface. The mutations changed either the charge or polarity of the wild-type amino acid. Wild-type TS and each of the mutants were subjected to a matrix of crystallization conditions varying pH, precipitant, and salt. After two weeks, each crystallization attempt was examined and scored for protein solubility and crystallization. Accordingly, the parameters of each condition were adjusted then repeated to drive the protein toward saturation without precipitating nonspecific aggregation. It was found that single amino acid changes on the surface of TS could have a dramatic effect on solubility while not decreasing stability. Furthermore, crystals of some mutant TSs were found to occur in conditions where wildtype TS did not crystallize and some mutant TSs showed enhanced crystallizability. The space groups of resulting crystals found in unique conditions or having unique morphologies were determined. Several of the mutant crystals were of different space groups than wild-type TS.
The market logic of information

Futurists have imagined the Internet as a separate “cyberspace” and as a force for an idealized marketplace. Business practice and economic theory, however, lead to a different picture. (1) “Always-on” connections bring new interface problems and social skills. (2) Reduced transaction costs and increased economies of scale bring outsourcing, concentration, and globalized economy of focused monopolies. (3) The economies of scope inherent in modular computing systems bring “shallow diversity”: processes and products generated by a common underlying framework. This new picture omits many countervailing factors. Even so, the very existence of alternative scenarios should sharpen questions for research.
Distinctiveness effects in recall

Unusual information is generally recalled better than common information (the distinctiveness effect). Differential processing accounts propose that the effect occurs because unusual material elicits encoding processes that are different from those elicited by common material, and strong versions of these accounts predict distinctiveness effects in between-list as well as within-list designs. Experiment 1 employed a between-list design and manipulated presentation rate. Contrary to differential processing predictions, no distinctiveness effect emerged, nor did recall patterns for atypical versus common sentences differ as a function of presentation rate. Experiment 2 further tested differential processing accounts as well as representation accounts via a within-list manipulation and conditions that included experimenter-provided elaborations. Distinctiveness effects emerged in all conditions and, contrary to differential processing predictions, the pattern of recall in the elaborated conditions did not differ from that in the unelaborated conditions. Taken together, the results of this study lend more support to a representation view that suggests mechanisms related to the representation and subsequent retrievability of elements in the memory record play a major role in the distinctiveness effect.
Empirical closure relation for the Vlasov moment equations

Empirical statistical relationships are found between each of the third moments and the two second moments of solar-wind proton velocity distributions. These can be used to close the Vlasov moment equations when applied to the behavior of the solar-wind plasma over a sufficiently large temporal or spatial scale.
Prevalence and risk factors for brucellosis in domestic yak Bos grunniens and their herders in a transhumant pastoralist system of Dolpo, Nepal.

Disease caused by Brucella spp. represents the most common bacterial zoonotic infection worldwide. The distribution and public health impact of these infections in Nepal's mountain regions are poorly characterized. This cross sectional study assesses the burden of brucellosis on transhumant pastoralists and their yak in and around Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal. Objectives were to: (1) estimate individual animal prevalence of Brucella-seropositive yak, (2) identify herd- and individual-level risk factors associated with Brucella seropositivity in individual yak, and (3) identify herd-level risk factors associated with reported human brucellosis-like symptoms in a household. A case of household symptoms was defined as the reported occurrence within the previous year of at least one of three acute symptoms (chills, fever, night chills) and one of two chronic symptoms (joint pain, swollen joint(s)) in one or both of two individuals interviewed in a household. Two-hundred-ninety-seven yak from 61 herds were sampled, and 61 household questionnaires were completed. Estimated true prevalence was 0.22 (95% CI: 0.17; 0.28). Poisson regression with generalized estimating equations was used to account for repeated measures within a cluster (herd). Yak in herds reporting abortion occurrence within the previous year were 2.3 times more likely to be seropositive than those in herds not reporting abortion (95% CI: 1.2; 4.2, p = 0.01). For every 10 animal increase in herd number, individual animal seropositivity risk increased by 30% (95% CI: 10%; 50%, p = 0.001). Male yak were 0.7 times as likely to be seropositive as female yak (95% CI: 0.5; 0.9, p = 0.01). Three to five year old yak were 2 times more likely to be seropositive than yak 5 years old were 4.9 times more likely to be seropositive than yak 1 reactor, and was 3.6 (95% CI: 1.4; 9.2, p = 0.008) times greater for households reporting the practice of raw milk consumption. These results indicate that yak seropositivity for Brucella spp. is widespread in the region, and is associated with reported human disease. This epidemiologic understanding is essential to the identification of public health opportunities at the interface of Himalayan livestock populations and the transhumant pastoralists that depend on them.
The role of one's own voice in immediate memory ☆

Abstract Two experiments allowed comparison of active and passive vocalization of visually presented digit series; in active vocalization S pronounces the elements as he sees them and in passive vocalization he hears E pronouncing them as he sees them. The effects of a redundant prefix were examined under the two vocalization conditions. The main findings were ( a ) either vocalization condition was superior to silent visual presentation only for the last few serial positions, ( b ) active vocalization was worse than passive vocalization only for the first few serial positions, and ( c ) the prefix requirement reduced recency only following active vocalization, as predicted. The results were discussed against a pluralistic model of coding and storage.
Image review station for the surgical intensive care unit of the Hospital of the University of Minnesota: design and workflow evaluation

A simple image review station has been designed for the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) of the Hospital of the University of Minnesota. The review station provides clinicians with digitized copies of all conventional films taken while a patient is in the SICU. The image review station consists of a single screen SPARCstation IPX. Images are acquired through a Kodak film digitizer and managed in cooperation with a bedside electronic medical record system on this unit. The review station software maintains a detailed log of all interactions that is routinely downloaded to a relational database for analysis of usage patterns.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Microwave Characterization of Partially Magnetized Ferrites

In order to assist the microwave engineer in predicting the performance of partially magnetized devices, we have characterized the microwave permeability of partially magnetized materials. The real part of the tensor permeability elements, /spl mu/, /spl kappa/, and /spl mu//sub z/, depends primarily on the parameters /spl gamma/4/spl pi/M//spl omega/ and /spl gamma/4/spl pi/M/sub s/ / /spl omega/. Empirical formulas have been developed which show the dependence. At frequencies sufficiently below /spl omega/ = /spl pi/4/spl pi/M/sub s/, the loss can be characterized by the value of /spl mu/'' at 4/spl pi/M = 0./spl mu/, /spl kappa/, and /spl mu//sub z/ depend weakly on composition, whereas /spl mu/'' (4/spl pi/M = 0) does depend upon the chemical composition.
Cage Design and Forms of Play in Red‐Bellied Tamarins, Saguinus labiatus

We investigated the role of cage design in the expression of play in a group of red-bellied tamarins (Saguinus labiatus). For each of the four play behaviors that were measured in this study (wrestle, pounce, grasp, and chase), significant differences in frequency appeared as a function of substrate. When playing on broad, flat, horizontal substrates, the tamarins primarily wrestled with one another. When playing on branches and vines, the tamarins wrestled less but chased and grasped more. Play sequences were less varied in terms of inclusion and order of play behaviors when they occurred on flat, horizontal substrates. To the extent that zoo or laboratory enclosures are outfitted with substrates, whose size and physical orientation are at odds with a species' natural habitat, the validity of play data and the educational value of an exhibit are compromised. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Barriers to shrub reestablishment following fire in the seasonal submontane zone of Hawai'i.

Introduced grass species have invaded extensive areas of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and increased the size and frequency of fire. Following fire, grass cover is enhanced while native shrub cover is reduced; the reduction in most shrubs persists for at least 20 years even in the absence of fire. Shrub seedlings were planted in burned and unburned plots with and without grass cover. Biomass of 14 month old shrub seedlings was generally highest in recently burned/grass removed plots, intermediate in old burn/grass removed plots, and lowest in unburned/grass removed plots. In contrast, shrub biomass in plots with grass cover was low and did not differ significantly among burn treatments. Light competition is likely to be responsible for differences in shrub growth rates; grass cover reduced light to 1–10% of background levels. In addition, pool sizes of available soil N were highest in recently burned, intermediate in old burn, and lowest in unburned areas.
Preclinical evidence of azelastine hydrochloride activity

Abstract Background: Second-generation antihistamines are characterized by reduced lipophilicity, large size, and extensive protein binding, with specificity for the histamine-1 (H 1 ) receptor. These characteristics translate into reduced penetration of the central nervous system, accounting for fewer of the dopaminergic, serotonergic, and cholinergic side effects associated with the firstgeneration antihistamines. Azelastine hydrochloride is the only topically administered antihistamine currently approved in the United States for use in both allergic (seasonal) and nonallergic (vasomotor) rhinitis. Objective: The purpose of this report is to review evidence from in vitro and animal studies for the breadth of azelastine's activity on a range of mediators and thus enhance understanding of the mechanisms underlying its activity in the treatment of rhinitis. Methods: Relevant studies were identified through a MEDLINE search of the literature published in the previous 15 years. The search terms used were azelastine, allergic rhinitis, nonallergic rhinitis , and anti-inflammatory activity . Results: In addition to having H 1 -blocking activity, azelastine has broadbased anti-inflammatory activity, probably accounting for its utility in the treatment of nonallergic rhinitis. The mechanisms governing its antiinflammatory activity include prevention of mast cell and basophil degranulation, down-regulation of adhesion molecules, suppression of eosinophil chemotaxis, suppression of leukotriene synthesis, and reduction in the manufacture of such inflammatory cytokines as interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-α. Conclusion: Because inflammation undoubtedly results from the actions of multiple cells and a cascade of mediators, a drug such as azelastine that possesses complementary antiallergic, antihistaminic, anti-inflammatory, and antiasthmatic activities may be of greater clinical benefit than an agent that interferes with a single mediator.
Late Spontaneous Haptic Disinsertion From a Three-Piece Intraocular Lens

Purpose To report two cases of spontaneous, late-onset haptic disinsertion from a three-piece posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL). Design Interventional case reports. Methods Two eyes of two patients had uncomplicated phacoemulsification and presented 16 and 20 years after surgery with spontaneous, nontraumatic haptic disinsertion from a three-piece IOL. Results In one case, the disinserted haptic dislocated into the anterior chamber while the IOL optic-single haptic complex remained centered and supported within the capsular bag. Cystoid macular edema was present, but resolved after removal of the disinserted haptic. In the second case, the disinserted haptic remained within the capsular bag while the IOL optic dislocated into the anterior chamber. Removal of the IOL and exchange with a sulcus-fixated single piece IOL was required. Conclusions Nontraumatic haptic disinsertion from a three-piece IOL is a rare long-term complication after phacoemulsification.
Evaluation of Biodiesel Derived from Camelina sativa Oil

Biodiesel derived from camelina as well as other feedstocks including palm, mustard, coconut, sunflower, soybean and canola were prepared via the conventional base-catalyzed transesterification with methanol. Fatty acid profiles and the fuel properties of biodiesel from different vegetable oils were analyzed and tested in accordance with ASTM D6751. Camelina biodiesel contains 10–12%, 37–40%, and 48–50% saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated components, respectively. Some fuel properties of camelina biodiesel are comparable to that of sunflower biodiesel including kinematic viscosity (40 °C), flash point, cloud point, cold filter plugging point, and oil stability index. However, camelina biodiesel exhibited the poorest oxidative stability, highest distillation temperature and has the highest potential to form coke during combustion, all of which are attributed to the high amounts of n-3-fatty acids in camelina oil. While neat camelina biodiesel may exhibit undesirable fuel properties, it is very comparable with soybean biodiesel at the B20 level.
Topological Changes of Hydrogen Bonding of Water with Acetic Acid: AIM and NBO Studies

Hydrogen bonding has been studied in a model system, originally devised for the KcsA K+ ion channel, using density functional calculations. The model was to represent the putative gating region of the channel. Four acetic acids here are fixed at approximately 4-fold symmetry; six water molecules are added. Initial configurations had two water molecules in the center of the near-square defined by the carboxyls of the acetic acids, plus one water at each corner on the outside. Certain configurations of the acetic acids allow an extra water molecule to move into the center of the group; a move of 0.1 A by the acetic acids suffices to produce this jump (>2 A). In certain cases, the inner and outer water positions were nearly isoenergetic. Atoms in molecules (AIM) and natural bond orbital (NBO) provide complementary techniques for studying the changes in bonding and in electron density that accompany the different positions of the water molecules, including discontinuous changes in the topology of bonding. Two...
Facing A Problem of Great Concern: Nursing Faculty's Lived Experience of Encounters with Chemically Dependent Nursing Students

This article focuses on the qualitative component of a study of nursing faculty attitudes toward student nurses perceived as having chemical dependency problems. A multi-cluster random sampling procedure was used to survey 874 participants; 324 participants responded to the survey, resulting in a response rate of 37%. Narrative analysis was used to analyze descriptions of encounters with chemically dependent student nurses as well as faculty perceptions of how religious/spiritual beliefs influenced their attitudes toward chemically dependent individuals. Four major themes emerged regarding the influence of religion/spirituality on attitudes toward individuals who may be chemically dependent; seven themes emerged regarding faculty encounters with chemically dependent nursing students. Study findings imply chemical dependency is a problem in academic circles that is frequently encountered by nursing faculty and that individuals with the potential to contribute productively to the profession of nursing are f...
A Biography of Russell A. Johnson

RussellA.JohnsonwasborninFairmont,MinnesotaonJanuary27,1947.HeobtainedhisB.S. degree in Mathematics from the University of Minnesota, Magna cum Laude, in 1969,and his Ph.D. degree in Mathematics from the University of Minnesota in 1975. His earlyacademic career consisted of assistant professorships: one year at the University of Wiscon-sin-Parksideand5yearsintheDepartmentofMathematics,UniversityofSouthernCalifornia(USC). In 1981 he was promoted at USC, ﬁrst to the rank of associate professor and then toafullprofessorshipin1988.AtUSCheservedastheVice-DirectorofAppliedMathematics(1986–1988)andastheDirectorofGraduateProgramsinMathematics(1988–1989).In1991heacceptedapositionoffullprofessoratUniversitadiFirenzeintheDipartimentodiSistemie Informatica, which is his current academic home. While at Firenze, he also served as theDirector of the Department (1995–1997). He has had visiting positions at the University ofMinnesota (1980 and 1989–1990) and the Universitat Heidelberg (1983–1985).He has delivered numerous invited lectures at professional conferences and at universi-ties/institutesworldwide.Forexample,hewasamainlecturerattheC.I.M.E.SchoolheldinCetraro,Italyin2000,theDANCEWinterSchoolheldinGranada,Spainin2007,andhehaspresentedseveralmini-coursesatPekingUniversity(1990),UniversityofValladolid(2005),andEastChinaNormalUniversity(2010).In2007hewashonoredonhis60thbirthdaywhentheUniversityofValladolidinSpainhostedthereanInternationalConferenceonDynamicalMethods and Mathematical Modelling.Russell has made extensive services to the international mathematical community.Besides being on numerous professional committees, he is (or has been) a member of theeditorialboardsoftheJournalofDynamicsandDifferentialEquations,TopologicalMethodsin Nonlinear Analysis, Annali di Matematica Pura ed Applicata and six other professionaljournals. He has organized more than twenty international conferences, workshops, and
Physical activity locations in Georgia: Frequency of use by socio-demographic group

Abstract Active outdoor recreation helps to mitigate health consequences associated with sedentary behavior. Enhanced understanding of socio-demographic differences in physical activity (PA) location preferences could therefore contribute to health promotion. This study examined frequency of use for various PA locations in Georgia, a state with historically high levels of physical inactivity and obesity. Data were collected via intercept surveys of visitors to state parks ( n =761) and flea markets near the parks ( n =234). According to these self-reports, homes and backyards were used most frequently for PA followed by neighborhood settings. State parks and gyms or recreation centers were used less frequently than other recreation settings. Latinos relied more on parks and less on homes/backyards for PA than others groups. African Americans and Asians used gyms or recreation centers more often than other groups. Development of built environments that promote active living should account for PA location choices across diverse communities. Management implications Physical activity is widely recognized as key element of health promotion, yet data depicting frequency of use for PA locations and variations among demographic groups is limited. By examining the frequency of use for various PA locations across a diverse population in north Georgia, this study revealed several patterns that have implications for recreation management: • Localized outdoor settings (e.g., homes/backyards, neighborhoods) are used more often for PA than other recreation locations (i.e., parks). • Females use neighborhood settings more often for PA than males. • Latinos and African Americans use parks more often for PA than Whites. • African Americans, Asians and high income individuals use gyms and recreation centers more often for PA than other groups. • Efforts to promote PA via outdoor recreation should consider multiple aspects of the built environment and account for a range of diverse preferences that influence site use patterns across different demographic groups.
The isolation and characterization of 3-(2-carboxyethyl)cytosine following in vitro reaction of β-propiolactone with calf thymus DNA☆

Abstract The new adduct 3-(2-carboxyethyl)cytosine (3-CEC) was isolated following in vitro reaction of the carcinogen β-propiolactone (BPL) with calf thymus DNA. The structure of 3-CEC was confirmed by synthesis from BPL and dCyd. Reaction of BPL with cCyd (pH 7.0–7.5, 37°C) gave 3-(2-carboxyethyl)deoxycytidine (3-CEdCyd) (9% yield) and 3, N 4 -bis(2-carboxyethyl)deoxycytidine (3, N 4 -BCEdCyd) (0.6% yield). 3-CEdCyd and 3, N 4 -BCEdCyd were hydrolyzed (1.5 N HC1, 100°C, 2 h) to 3-CEC and 3, N 4 -bis(2-carboxyethyl)cytosine (3, N 4 -BCEC), respectively. The structure of 3-CEC was assigned on the basis of UV and NMR spectra and the electron impact (EI) mass spectra of 3-CEC and a tri-trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivative of 3 CEC as well as deuterated (d 27 ) tri-TMS derivative of 3-CEC. The structure of 3, N 4 -BCEC was assigned on the basis of UV spectra and the EI mass spectra of a tri-TMS derivative. EI and isobutane chemical ionization mass spectra of 3-methylcytosine (3-MeCyt) and a di-TMS derivative of 3-MeCyt were obtained and were helpful in deducing the structures of 3-CEC and 3, N 4 -BCEC. This is the first report of the alkylation by BPL of an exocyclic atom on a base in DNA. Compound 3, N 4 -BCEC was not detected in BPL-reacted calf thymus DNA. The relative amounts of 1-(2-carboxyethyl)adenine (1-CEA), 7-(2-carboxyethyl)guanine (7-CEG), 3-(2-carboxyethyl)thymine (3-CET) and 3-CEC isolated from BPL-reacted DNA following perchloric acid hydrolysis were 0.23, 1.00, 0.39 and 0.41 respectively, when the alkylation reaction was conducted in phosphate buffer at 0–5°C and pH 7.5 and 0.10, 1.00, 0.29 and 0.28 respectively when the reaction was conducted in H 2 O at 37°C and pH 7.0–7.5.
Thermal denaturation of iso‐1‐cytochrome c variants: Comparison with solvent denaturation

Thermal denaturation studies as a function of pH were carried out on wild-type iso-1-cytochrome c and three variants of this protein at the solvent-exposed position 73 of the sequence. By examining the enthalpy and Tm at various pH values, the heat capacity increment (delta Cp), which is dominated by the degree of change in nonpolar hydration upon protein unfolding, was found for the wild type where lysine 73 is normally present and for three variants. For the Trp 73 variant, the delta Cp value (1.15 +/- 0.17 kcal/mol K) decreased slightly relative to wild-type iso-1-cytochrome c (1.40 +/- 0.06 kcal/mol K), while for the Ile 73 (1.65 +/- 0.07 kcal/mol K) and the Val 73 (1.50 +/- 0.06 kcal/mol K) variants, delta Cp increased slightly. In previous studies, the Trp 73, Ile 73, and Val 73 variants have been shown to have decreased m-values in guanidine hydrochloride denaturations relative to the wild-type protein (Hermann L, Bowler BE, Dong A, Caughey WS. 1995. The effects of hydrophilic to hydrophobic surface mutations on the denatured state of iso-1-cytochrome c: Investigation of aliphatic residues. Biochemistry 34:3040-3047). Both the m-value and delta Cp are related to the change in solvent exposure upon unfolding and other investigators have shown a correlation exists between these two parameters. However, for this subset of variants of iso-1-cytochrome c, a lack of correlation exists which implies that there may be basic differences between the guanidine hydrochloride and thermal denaturations of this protein. Spectroscopic data are consistent with different denatured states for thermal and guanidine hydrochloride unfolding. The different response of m-values and delta Cp for these variants will be discussed in this context.
Behavioural analysis of electric signal localization in the electric fish, Gymnotus carapo (Gymnotiformes)

Abstract This study investigates how an electric fish is able to localize in space the electric signals from another fish. South American electric fish of the pulse-species, Gymnotus carapo , were housed in a large, circular arena with a shelter in the centre and non-moving electrical models which mimicked the discharge of a conspecific were presented at the edge of the tank. Gymnotus , a naturally aggressive fish, approached and threatened these electrical models. The nocturnal fish were observed approaching the electrodes under near-infra-red light, and the paths to five different geometrical arrangements of electrodes were compared. The results suggest that Gymnotus cannot determine the direction or distance of an electrical source placed in its territory but that they can approach the electric stimulus by aligning their body axis parallel to the electric field vector while swimming. By using this simple strategy they are able to find the source in a reliable, although indirect, way. Gymnotus showed a slight polarity preference for approaching the head of the model fish. These fish did not discriminate between a diverging electric field and a converging electric field. They were well-oriented to the vector direction even when the magnitude of the current was relatively homogeneous. Gymnotus appears to maintain its alignment to the electric field vector by an active hunting movement.
Necklace Globule and Counterion Condensation

We have developed a necklace model of polyelectrolyte chain in which the necklace structure appears as a result of the counterion condensation on the polyelectrolyte backbone. This necklace structure optimizes the correlation-induced attraction of the condensed counterions and charged monomers and electrostatic repulsion between uncompensated charges. The new feature of this necklace globule is that it can be formed even in good solvent conditions for the polymer backbone. By using the scaling analysis, we have calculated the diagram of state of polyelectrolyte chain as a function of the solvent quality for the polymer backbone and value of the Bjerrum length. To test the predictions of a scaling model, we have performed molecular dynamics simulations of polyelectrolyte chains with the degrees of polymerizations N = 124−304 and fraction of charged monomers f = 1/3 in good, θ, and poor solvent conditions for the polymer backbone. We have identified the range of parameters in which the necklace globule is f...
How effective is drug therapy in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia

Abstract The goals of drug therapy in adult patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are directed at reducing plasma concentrations of low density lipoproteins (LDL), with a secondary goal in selected patients to concurrently decrease elevated plasma concentrations of lipoprotein(a), triglycerides, and potentially exert favorable effects on the concentrations of high density lipoproteins (HDL). Desirable goals of therapy are to reduce concentrations of LDL cholesterol to 200 mg/dL in one-third of mate and female patients with heterozygous FH and remain >160 mg/dL in 75–80% of treated patients. Probucol and the fibrates are less effective than the first choice agents discussed above, and these drugs reduce LDL cholesterol concentrations by
Global Governance from the Amazon: Leaving Oil Underground in Yasuní National Park, Ecuador

This article explores the saga of the campaign to save the Ishpingo-Tambococha-Tiputini (ITT) block of the Yasuni National Park in Ecuador's Western Amazon, a story of the complex transnational networks and global governance mechanisms that have emerged to create post-Kyoto solutions for the planet. Ecuador's Yasuni-ITT Initiative to keep nearly 900 million barrels of oil underground in exchange for global contributions for avoided emissions presents an alternative norm for global environmental governance in line with the indigenous concept of buen vivir, or the good life. This means living in harmony with nature, and is embodied in the Ecuadorian Constitution of 2008. These changes, however, are not without pressures and inconsistencies at the domestic and international levels. Ultimately, the Yasuni-ITT Initiative and subsequent UNDP Yasuni Trust Fund offer replicable models for other fossil fuel dependent and megadiverse countries in the developing world.
Quantitative Dynamic Range Management Techniques for Spectroscopic Detection and Estimation

Introduction of active filters into spectrometer design results in flexible systems that are insensitive to source/detector dynamic range mismatch, thereby allowing detection of spectral features that were previously below the detection limit.
Integrins: possible functions in the adult CNS

Integrins comprise a large family of heterodimeric proteins that mediate cell-cell and cell-extracellular-matrix adhesive connections. There is an extensive literature on their importance in neural development and cancer, but evidence for the existence of integrins in the adult CNS has emerged only recently. With growing immunohistochemical and molecular biological evidence for the presence of integrins in the adult CNS, a variety of functions from microglial migration to synaptic rearrangements can be considered for these adhesive proteins.
Mechanism of lysine 48-linked ubiquitin-chain synthesis by the cullin-RING ubiquitin-ligase complex SCF-Cdc34

Ubiquitin chains linked via lysine 48 (K48) of ubiquitin mediate recognition of ubiquitinated proteins by the proteasome. However, the mechanisms underlying polymerization of this targeting signal on a substrate are unknown. Here we dissect this process using the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor Sic1 and its ubiquitination by the cullin-RING ubiquitin ligase SCF(Cdc4) and the ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme Cdc34. We show that Sic1 ubiquitination can be separated into two steps: attachment of the first ubiquitin, which is rate limiting, followed by rapid elongation of a K48-linked ubiquitin chain. Mutation of an acidic loop conserved among Cdc34 orthologs has no effect on attachment of the first ubiquitin onto Sic1 but compromises the processivity and linkage specificity of ubiquitin-chain synthesis. We propose that the acidic loop favorably positions K48 of a substrate-linked ubiquitin to attack SCF bound Cdc34 approximately ubiquitin thioester and thereby enables processive synthesis of K48-linked ubiquitin chains by SCF-Cdc34.
Asymmetrical porphyrins. I: Synthesis, characterization and physicochemical properties of phenyl/4-benzyloxyphenyl 5,10,15,20-substituted porphyrins

A complete series of five phenyl/4-benzyloxyphenyl 5,10,15,20-substituted porphyrin has been synthesized, characterized by analysis, Rf values, and proton-nmr spectroscopy (pmr). Their physicochemical properties, namely ir spectra, absorption spectra, emission spectra, excited state life-times, pK3 values, reduction potentials, and kinetics of Cu(+2) insertion, have been determined. Attempts have been made to correlate these physicochemical properties with the structures of the porphyrins.
The idiosyncratic deal: Flexibility versus fairness?

This discovery led Vicky to begin collecting other exceptions, which she referred to as “coral reefs.” She turned up a worker who cleared his calendar from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. to do real estate deals. (He didn’t ask his boss, who knew, but didn’t complain because of the volume of work accomplished during the remainder of the day.) As the list of exceptions grew, Vicky positioned herself to begin negotiating more flexibility in the work schedules she and other Amerco staff adhered to. This incident reveals two important aspects of the dynamics of typical employment arrangements. Different “deals” exist for different people, even though they do comparable work. Moreover, workers themselves are seeking out (and often getting) greater flexibility, negotiating arrangements that better meet their personal needs while contributing effectively to the firm. This article deals with an increasingly significant organizational practice, “the idiosyncratic deal.” This individualized arrangement between valued workers and their employers is the product of a negotiation. It results from three intersecting trends. The demand for knowledge workers with distinctive competencies in a hypercompetitive market place means workers have greater power to negotiate employment conditions suited to their tastes and preferences. The weakening, if not demise, of the job security-based model of organizational careers, once supported by unionism and/or legal requirements, leads to less standardized conditions of employment. Lastly, expanded choices that people have in the market place have led to ever-greater diversified products and services, creating rising expectations for customization that extend to the workplace. This article describes how idiosyncratic deals arise, their potential benefits and the challenges they pose to trust and fairness in employment. It addresses the question of how an organization can have both flexibility and fairness in relations with its workforce.
Environmental assessment: U.S. requirements in new drug applications☆

Abstract The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act and other public health statutes, is responsible for ensuring that human drugs are safe and effective. FDA is able to carry out its responsibilities by approving products before they are marketed, enforcing regulations, and taking necessary compliance actions when problems are identified. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) provides FDA with supplementary authority to consider environmental factors in its decisionmaking. The role of the FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Re- search in implementing NEPA is discussed.
Automated radiochemical procedure for plutonium and americium measurement

A radiochemical separation method for plutonium and americium from aqueous medium has been developed using a pre-packed resin column, a peristaltic pump, and the necessary tubing and valves for flow injection technique. All the radioanalytical operations were conducted in-line. Samples made of plutonium and americium tracers in water were analyzed by this technique and counted by alpha spectroscopy. The results show that plutonium and americium can be measured simultaneously using this technique.
Tillage-induced soil carbon dioxide loss from different cropping systems

Abstract Tillage of soils often decreases soil organic matter content and increases the flux of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) from soils. Our objectives were (1) to measure short-term, tillage-induced soil CO 2 flux from different cropping systems using two instruments, a soil chamber (about 10 −3 m 3 ) and a canopy chamber (3.25 m 3 ), and (2) to examine the interactions between cumulative short-term soil CO 2 flux and soil N transformations. Measurements were made on 6 and 7 May 1994 for three cropping systems (coastal bermudagrass ( Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.), continuously cultivated sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench), and no-till sorghum) that had three different tillage practices (molbboard plow, chisel plow, and untilled as the control) imposed on a vertisol at the Blackland Research Center, Temple, Texas, USA. The soil CO 2 flux was calculated from the rate of CO 2 concentration increase inside each chamber. Soil inorganic N content (NO 2 N, NO 3 N, and NH 4 N) was measured from soil cores collected immediately preceding tillage and at 8, 24, and 102 h thereafter. The CO 2 flux over a 24 h period measured by both methods was greatest immediately after tillage, but maximum soil chamber fluxes were only about 10% of those measured by the canopy chamber. The large differences between chambers are a concern, and probably were related to the inability of the soil chamber to make a representative measurement for tilled surfaces and to the increased turbulence and possible associated pressure effects inside the canopy chamber. Increased soil surface area under the canopy chamber caused by increased soil surface roughness may also explain observed chamber differences. Fluxes were greatest in the bermudagrass and least in the continuously cultivated sorghum. Fluxes in the moldboard plow treatment were usually the greatest, and fluxes in the untiled treatment were considerably smaller than fluxes from either tilage treatment. For the first 24 h after tillage, there was no relationship between cumulative CO 2 flux and the change of inorganic N. Thus, to the extent that these inorganic N content changes reflect microbial activity, the short-term CO 2 flux from tilled soils is controlled more by mass flow processes related to a tillage-induced change in porosity than to immediate microbial activity.
Evaluation of Two‐Center Exchange Integrals

The evaluation of two‐center exchange integrals for any homonuclear molecules using Slater‐type wave functions is reduced to the solution of Poisson's equation. An expression is obtained for the exchange integrals in terms of integrals which can be evaluated analytically. In particular, all cases which arise from 2s and 2p wave functions are discussed in detail and the auxiliary integrals evaluated. The pertinent results are collected in tables, and the final result for a particular exchange integral is given explicitly.
Wrist fusion in cerebral palsy

Twenty-one fusions were done for 19 patients with cerebral palsy who had asked for improvements in hygiene and cosmesis. There were 20 solid unions and one fibrous union. There were no significant complications. This is a relatively predictable procedure in the properly selected patient.
Analyzing failure data with unknown scale: Applying the Pearson-Fisher theorem

Plant accounting systems generate equipment failure data with unknown scale when equipment prices are unknown. Here it is shown that maximum likelihood estimation is possible with such data, and that the equipment price factor is estimable. The statistical distribution of the price-estimate will be known from the Pearson-Fisher theorem, leading to various test statistics. The results are applied to actual failure data with unknown scale.
INTEGRATED SiGe AND Si DEVICE CAPABILITIES AND TRENDS FOR MULTI-GIGAHERTZ APPLICATIONS

Silicon-based devices, including the increasingly available SiGe-based devices, are now demonstrating fT and fMAX values over 200 GHz. These recent advances open the door to a wide range of silicon-based very high frequency, low power and highly integrated solutions. Trends in silicon MOS, SiGe HBT, SiGe MODFET and SiGe strained silicon FETs are reported. Silicon inroads to device functions viewed as the sole realm of III-V technologies are also being demonstrated. Capability and trends of the integrated silicon photodiode are reported here as an example. Integration of these high-speed devices into a complex circuit requires on-chip passive device functionality at such high frequency. Key devices to enable integration are the inductor, varactor, and transmission line, and operation of these devices at high frequency is reported. Further, we discuss noise isolation issues and techniques, which may be used when minimizing cross-talk within a conductive silicon substrate.
Surface BRDF estimation from an aircraft compared to MODIS and ground estimates at the Southern Great Plains site

[1] Surface albedo, which quantifies the amount of solar radiation reflected by the ground, is an important component of climate models. However, it can be highly heterogeneous, so obtaining adequate measurements are challenging. Global measurements require orbital observations, such as those provided by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). Satellites estimate the surface bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF), a surface inherent optical property, by correcting observed radiances for atmospheric effects and accumulating measurements at many viewing and solar geometries. The BRDF is then used to estimate albedo, an apparent optical property utilized by climate models. Satellite observations are often validated with ground radiometer measurements. However, spatial and temporal sampling differences mean that direct comparisons are subject to substantial uncertainties. We attempt to bridge the resolution gap using an airborne radiometer, the Research Scanning Polarimeter (RSP). RSP was flown at low altitude in the vicinity of the Department of Energy's Southern Great Plains Central Facility (SGP CF) in Oklahoma during the Aerosol Lidar Validation Experiment (ALIVE) in September, 2005. The RSP's scanning radiometers estimate the BRDF in seconds, rather than days required by MODIS, and utilize the Ames Airborne Tracking Sunphotometer (AATS-14) for atmospheric correction. Our comparison indicates that surface albedo estimates from RSP and MODIS agree with Best Estimate Radiation Flux (BEFLUX) ground radiometer observations at the SGP CF. Since the RSP is an airborne prototype of the Aerosol Polarimetery Sensor (APS), due to be launched into orbit in 2009, these techniques could form the basis for routine BRDF validation.