cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Actin Age Orchestrates Myosin-5 and Myosin-6 Run Lengths

Unlike a static and immobile skeleton, the actin cytoskeleton is a highly dynamic network of filamentous actin (F-actin) polymers that continuously turn over. In addition to generating mechanical forces and sensing mechanical deformation, dynamic F-actin networks serve as cellular tracks for myosin motor traffic. However, much of our mechanistic understanding of processive myosins comes from in vitro studies in which motility was studied on pre-assembled and artificially stabilized, static F-actin tracks. In this work, we examine the role of actin dynamics in single-molecule myosin motility using assembling F-actin and two highly processive motors, myosin-5 and myosin-6. These two myosins have distinct functions in the cell and travel in opposite directions along actin filaments [1-3]. Myosin-5 walks toward the barbed ends of F-actin, traveling to sites of actin polymerization at the cell periphery [4]. Myosin-6 walks toward the pointed end of F-actin [5], traveling toward the cell center along older segments of the actin filament. We find that myosin-5 takes 1.3- to 1.5-fold longer runs on ADP•Pi (young) F-actin, whereas myosin-6 takes 1.7- to 3.6-fold longer runs along ADP (old) F-actin. These results suggest that conformational differences between ADP•Pi and ADP F-actin tailor these myosins to walk farther toward their preferred actin filament end. Taken together, these experiments define a new mechanism by which myosin traffic may sort to different F-actin networks depending on filament age.
The different effects of structurally related sulfakinins on Drosophila melanogaster odor preference and locomotion suggest involvement of distinct mechanisms.

Abstract Sulfakinins are myoactive peptides and antifeedant factors. Naturally occurring drosulfakinin I (DSK I; FDDYGHMRFNH 2 ) and drosulfakinin II (DSK II; GGDDQFDDYGHMRFNH 2 ) contain sulfated or nonsulfated tyrosine. We discovered sDSK II and nsDSK II influenced Drosophila melanogaster larval odor preference. However, sDSK I, nsDSK I, MRFNH 2 , and saline did not influence odor preference. We discovered sDSK I and nsDSK I influenced larval locomotion. However, sDSK II, nsDSK II, MRFNH 2 , and saline did not influence locomotion. Our novel data suggest distinct mechanisms underlie the effects of DSK I and DSK II peptides on odor preference and locomotion, parameters important to many facets of animal survival.
Differential synaptic inputs to the cell body and proximal dendrites of preganglionic parasympathetic neurons in the rat conus medullaris

Preganglionic parasympathetic neurons (PPNs) reside in the intermediolateral (IML) nucleus of the rat lumbosacral spinal cord and contribute to the autonomic control of visceral pelvic organs. PPNs provide the final common pathway for efferent parasympathetic information originating in the spinal cord. We examined the detailed ultrastructure of the type and organization of synaptic inputs to the cell body and proximal dendrites of PPNs in the rat conus medullaris. The PPNs were retrogradely labeled by a systemic administration of the B subunit of cholera toxin conjugated to horseradish peroxidase. We demonstrate four distinct types of synaptic boutons in apposition with PPN somata and proximal dendrites: S-type boutons show clear, spheroid vesicles; F-type boutons show flattened vesicles; dense-cored vesicle-type (DCV-type) boutons show a mixture of clear and dense-cored vesicles; L-type boutons were rare, but large, exhibited clear spheroid vesicles, and were only encountered in apposition with the PPN dendrites in our sample. The membrane surface covered by apposed boutons was markedly higher for the proximal dendrites of PPNs, compared with their somata. The inhibitory synaptic influence was markedly higher over the PPN somata compared with their proximal dendrites, as suggested by the higher proportion of putative inhibitory F-type boutons in apposition with the soma and a higher frequency of S-type boutons per membrane length for the proximal dendrites. Our studies suggest that the synaptic input to PPNs originates from multiple distinct sources and is differentially distributed and integrated over the cell membrane surface.
Finite-size scaling for quantum criticality using the finite-element method

Finite size scaling for the Schrodinger equation is a systematic approach to calculate the quantum critical parameters for a given Hamiltonian. This approach has been shown to give very accurate results for critical parameters by using a systematic expansion with global basis-type functions. Recently, the finite-element method was shown to be a powerful numerical method for ab initio electronic-structure calculations with a variable real-space resolution. In this work, we demonstrate how to obtain quantum critical parameters by combining the finite-element method (FEM) with finite size scaling (FSS) using different ab initio approximations and exact formulations. The critical parameters could be atomic nuclear charges, internuclear distances, electron density, disorder, lattice structure, and external fields for stability of atomic, molecular systems and quantum phase transitions of extended systems. To illustrate the effectiveness of this approach we provide detailed calculations of applying FEM to approximate solutions for the two-electron atom with varying nuclear charge; these include Hartree-Fock, local density approximation, and an "exact" formulation using FEM. We then use the FSS approach to determine its critical nuclear charge for stability; here, the size of the system is related to the number of elements used in the calculations. Results prove to be in good agreement with previous Slater-basis set calculations and demonstrate that it is possible to combine finite size scaling with the finite-element method by using ab initio calculations to obtain quantum critical parameters. The combined approach provides a promising first-principles approach to describe quantum phase transitions for materials and extended systems.
Cellular energetics and glutathione status in NRK-52E cells: toxicological implications.

Abstract Cellular energetics and redox status were evaluated in NRK-52E cells, a stable cell line derived from rat proximal tubules. To assess toxicological implications of these properties, susceptibility to apoptosis induced by S -(1,2-dichlorovinyl)- l -cysteine (DCVC), a well-known mitochondrial and renal cytotoxicant, was studied. Cells exhibited high activities of several glutathione (GSH)-dependent enzymes, including γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase, GSH peroxidase, glutathione disulfide reductase, and GSH S -transferase, but very low activities of γ-glutamyltransferase and alkaline phosphatase, consistent with a low content of brush-border microvilli. Uptake and total cellular accumulation of [ 14 C ]α-methylglucose was significantly higher when cells were exposed at the basolateral as compared to the brush-border membrane. Similarly, uptake of GSH was nearly 2-fold higher across the basolateral than the brush-border membrane. High activities of (Na + +K + )-ATPase and malic dehydrogenase, but low activities of other mitochondrial enzymes, respiration, and transport of GSH and dicarboxylates into mitochondria were observed. Examination of mitochondrial density by confocal microscopy, using a fluorescent marker (MitoTracker ® Orange), indicated that NRK-52E cells contain a much lower content of mitochondria than rat renal proximal tubules in vivo . Incubation of cells with DCVC caused time- and concentration-dependent ATP depletion that was largely dependent on transport and bioactivation, as observed in the rat, on induction of apoptosis, and on morphological damage. Comparison with primary cultures of rat and human proximal tubular cells suggests that the NRK-52E cells are modestly less sensitive to DCVC. In most respects, however, NRK-52E cells exhibited functions similar to those of the rat renal proximal tubule in vivo .
Stimulation and visualization of Martian rover

Mars Pathfinder, launching in December 1996 and landing July 4, 1997, will demonstrate a low-cost delivery system to the surface of Mars. A rover will be deployed to perform mobility tests, image its surroundings, and place a spectrometer against rocks to make elemental composition measurements. After impact on the surface of Mars, the lander will deploy its three solar panels for power, the camera will view the surroundings and the rover will be positioned for deployment to the surface. First, the lander will transmit the engineering and science data collected during descent through Mars' thin atmosphere. Then its camera will take a panoramic image of its surroundings and begin transmitting it directly to Earth at a few hundred bits per second. The rover, which will have been carried in a stowed configuration with the body lowered, will extend to its full height before it leaves the lander. It will roll down a deployment ramp to the surface and will then be independent except for using the lander data and communications functions for contact with Earth. After the lander transmits its engineering data and panorama image to Earth, much of its mission will be focused on supporting the rover with imaging telecommunications and data storage. The rover, named Sojourner, has a rocker-bogie suspension system. A computer generated image of the rover is shown in figure 1. The rocker-bogie suspension system utilizes a six-wheel drive platform without axles or springs. The system kinematically adapts to terrain geometry and can negotiate obstacles twice the wheel diameter. Precise steering is performed with steering actuators mounted above the four outer wheels. The rover can turn in place. The Martian environment is, to a great degree, uncertain. Detailed information about the terrain's grades and soil characteristics are not available. As such, the behavior of the rover on the surface of Mars is unknown.
Analysis of T cell receptor β and γ genes from peripheral blood, regional lymph node and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte clones from melanoma patients

A total of 199 T cell clones from two melanoma patients were derived from progenitor T cells from recurrent melanoma, regional lymph nodes (either involved or uninvolved with malignancy) and peripheral blood by inoculating single cells directly into the wells of microtiter plates before in vitro expansion. The surface marker phenotype of most clones was CD4+CD8-, although some were CD4-CD8+. Genomic DNA prepared from all clones was analyzed by Southern blot hybridization using T cell receptor (TCR) beta and gamma gene probes, seeking clones with identical TCR gene rearrangement patterns as direct evidence for in vivo progenitor T cell clonal amplification. Probing HindIII-digested DNA with TCR beta and TCR gamma probes revealed several clones with identical TCR gene rearrangement patterns. These clones had subsequent probing of BamHI-digested DNA with TCR beta and TCR gamma probes, which showed all but 2 clones to have distinct rearrangement patterns. These analyses provide clear molecular evidence for in vivo polyclonal CD4+ T cell populations in each of several separate immune compartments in these patients.
WARFARIN VERSUS ASPIRIN FOR PREVENTION OF STROKE IN HEART FAILURE: A META-ANALYSIS

Heart failure (HF) is associated with a high incidence of stroke. The role of warfarin or aspirin in reducing this burden remains unclear. We searched MEDLINE (1966–10/2012), WEB OF SCIENCE (1980–10/2012), The Cochrane Library (Central and Dare) (Issue 10, 2012). We also searched BIOSIS (1969
What about Health Educators? Nutrition Education for Allied Health Professionals: A Review of the Literature.

Abstract Background: Health educators are critical members of the health care team who may be called upon to provide nutrition education. However, are health educators prepared for this task? What have scholars concluded regarding this pertinent topic? Purpose: This study has three purposes: (1) to determine the definition of and criteria for nutrition education among allied health professionals, (2) to identify commonalities across health professions for nutrition education definitions and training requirements, and (3) to determine if there are criteria for nutrition education and training for health educators. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature. Results: Twenty-three articles addressed how researchers conceptualize nutrition and their rationale for nutrition's inclusion into the respective allied health discipline's curriculum. None of the studies examined nutrition education or the advocacy of nutrition for pre-professional or professional health educators. Discussion: Scholarly literat...
High-speed echophonocardiographic detection of tricuspid valve prolapse in mitral valve prolapse with discrepancy in onset of systolic murmur

Fig. 6. a, View of the transected aorta (Ao) at its isthmus and left main pulmonary artery which is occluded by thrombus CT). Extensive calcific deposits are present in the wall of the pulmonary artery. Lig = ligamenturn arteriosum. b, Photomicrograph of a small pulmonary artery in the left lung with multiluminal channels presumably representing organized thrombus. Many such arteries were present. No plexiform lesions were present. (Movat stain; original magnification X18.)
C-glycosyl compounds. Stereospecific synthesis of 2,5-anhydro-d-allose derivatives via diazotization

Abstract A stereospecific synthesis of substituted derivatives of 2,5-anhydro- d -allose via conformational control and diazotization is described. Diazotization of the conformationally mobile methyl 2-amino-2-deoxy-α- d -altropyranoside ( 7 ) and its 3,4,6-tri- O -benzoyl derivative ( 8 ) led to a selectively disfavored, ring-contraction reaction, but, for the conformationally rigid 2-amino-1,6-anhydro-2-deoxy-3- O-p -tolylsulfonyl-β- d -altropyranose ( 19 ), the rearrangement was unequivocally chanenlled stereospecifically, and almost quantitatively, to a 2,5-anhydro- d -alloseptanose derivative ( 21 ). Conformational assignments and rearrangement mechanisms are discussed. O -Detosylation was achieved by photolysis. The 1,3-dioxolane derivative used for the protection of the anomeric center was found very resistant toward acid hydrolysis, and disadvantageous in the regeneration of the free aldehyde group.
Chip Scale Atomic Magnetometers

An optically pumped magnetometer was drastically miniaturized, by taking advantage of MEMS techniques, producing the chip-scale atomic magnetometers (CSAM) physics package. The key component of the package is an alkali vapor cell. To probe the magnetic field experienced by the atoms, the injection current to the VCSEL was modulated at 3.4 GHz near half the hyperfine frequency of 87Rb. Lock-in detection is used to determine the center of the resonance, and the magnetic field is determined by counting the modulation frequency, which is related to the Larmor precession frequency under these locked conditions. The ITO heaters create a large magnetic field gradient, which broadens the resonance and reduces the sensitivity.
The Effects of Time Pressure on Arithmetic Performance

Abstract It has recently been demonstrated that highly math-anxious individuals may be less proficient on arithmetic tasks, particularly those that involve complex problems. The processing efficiency theory postulates that in highly anxious individuals, working memory resources are consumed by “worry,” thereby leaving fewer resources available for task completion. Although there is some empirical support for this theory, the precise nature of this worry has yet to be identified. We tested the hypothesis that time pressure may be one component contributing to worry, and subsequent performance deficits characteristic of high math-anxious individuals. Thirty participants completed arithmetic problems of varying complexity in both a timed and untimed condition. Although the timing manipulation negatively affected arithmetic performance in both high and low anxious participants, anxiety groups were not differentially affected. Researchers may therefore have to look to other variables to explain the nature of worrisome thoughts that are theorized to disrupt the performance of anxious individuals.
The effect of varying percentages of haemodilution with fluosol-DA or normal saline on antipyrine metabolism in the rat.

— Antipyrine disposition and metabolism in conscious, unrestrained rats after 25 or 50% haemodilution with Fluosol or normal (0.9% NaCl) saline is reported. Rats received an intravenous antipyrine dose (20 mg kg−1) 0.5, 24, 48, or 72 h after haemodilution and its pharmacokinetic parameters have been compared with non-exchanged control animals. Haemodilution 25% with Fluosol initially depressed antipyrine metabolism for 24 h by decreasing the antipyrine urinary excretion rate constant and the formation rate constants of 4-hydroxyantipyrine (4-OH) and 3-hydroxymethylantipyrine (3-OHME). Metabolism was then increased for 48 and 72 h with a slight increase in all rate constants. Haemodilution 50% with Fluosol produced a similar pattern but with significant increases in the 3-OHME formation rate constant found at 48 and 72 h. Haemodilution 25% with saline reduced 4-OH formation for 48 h. Haemodilution 50% with saline significantly reduced antipyrine urinary excretion at all times. After a significant increase in the 4-OH and 3-OHME formation rate constants at 24 h following 50% haemodilution with saline, the rate constants were significantly decreased at 48 and 72 h. Haemodilution 25% with Fluosol significantly reduced the antipyrine Vd at 0.5 and 72 h. After haemodilution 50% with Fluosol, the Vd alternated between values greater and less than control throughout the 72 h. Haemodilution 25 or 50% with saline had little influence on Vd.
Interactions of Selected Potato Cultivars and Populations of Meloidogyne hapla Adapted to the Midwest U.S. Soils

Meloidogyne hapla Chitwood is among the most serious nematode pests in temperate vegetable crops grown in rotation with potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), a crop with known resistance to potato cyst. While the types of agronomic trait improvements, crops, and pests are limited by resources, preserving improved crops in a rotation system requires understanding their performance against nontarget pests such as M. hapla. In greenhouse experiments, the interactions of four populations of M. hapla (Mh 1, Mh 2, Mh 3, and Mh 4) and six potato cultivars and lines, including ‘Boulder’ and ‘Missaukee’ with the H1 gene, were tested. The potato cultivars showed a 12 to 33% degree of suitability to the populations of M. hapla when compared with tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. [syn. Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.), the host in which the populations were cultured, indicating that buildup of the populations of M. hapla potentially may be a problem. However, the responses varied by M. hapla population and potato cultivar interactions, suggesting that the management challenges will be site specific. Of the four M. hapla populations, Mh 3, an isolate from sandy soil under extended methyl bromide and other pesticide application, was the most pathogenic. The study provides critical data for developing agro-biologically integrated approaches to managing nematode parasitic variability.
Hydrogen Dissociation and Spillover on Individual Isolated Palladium Atoms

Using a combination of low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy and density functional theory it is demonstrated how the nature of an inert host metal of an alloy can affect the thermodynamics and kinetics of a reaction pathway in a much more profound way than simply a dilution, electronic, or geometric effect. This study reveals that individual, isolated Pd atoms can promote H2 dissociation and spillover onto a Cu(111) surface, but that the same mechanism is not observed for an identical array of Pd atoms in Au(111).
Performance and stability of Pd-Pt-Ni nanoalloy electrocatalysts in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Abstract Pd–Pt–Ni nanoalloy catalysts have been synthesized by a polyol reduction method and characterized for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The performance of the membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) fabricated with the Pd–Pt–Ni catalysts is found to increase continuously in the entire current density range with the operation time in the PEMFC until it becomes comparable to that of commercial Pt. The Pt-based mass activity of Pd–Pt–Ni exceeds that of commercial Pt by a factor of 2, and its long-term durability is comparable to that of commercial Pt within the 200 h of operation. Compositional characterizations by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) suggest a dealloyed active catalyst phase consisting of Pd-rich core and Pt-rich shell, formed by dissolution of Pd and Ni under the testing conditions. The surface catalytic activity of nanoparticles can be modified by the strain effect caused by lattice mismatch between the surface and core components. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation of the MEA cross-section reveals that the Pd ions move into the Nafion membrane and even to the anode side and redeposit on reduction by hydrogen crossover. The deposition of Pd-rich PdPt particles mainly forms a band at the center of the membrane and along the cathode/membrane interface. On the other hand, the Ni ions ion-exchange with the protons in the Nafion membrane.
Position of UNC-13 in the active zone regulates synaptic vesicle release probability and release kinetics

The presynaptic active zone proteins UNC-13/Munc13s are essential for synaptic vesicle (SV) exocytosis by directly interacting with SV fusion apparatus. An open question is how their association with active zones, hence their position to Ca(2+) entry sites, regulates SV release. The N-termini of major UNC-13/Munc13 isoforms contain a non-calcium binding C2A domain that mediates protein homo- or hetero-meric interactions. Here, we show that the C2A domain of Caenorhabditis elegans UNC-13 regulates release probability of evoked release and its precise active zone localization. Kinetics analysis of SV release supports that the proximity of UNC-13 to Ca(2+) entry sites, mediated by the C2A-domain containing N-terminus, is critical for accelerating neurotransmitter release. Additionally, the C2A domain is specifically required for spontaneous release. These data reveal multiple roles of UNC-13 C2A domain, and suggest that spontaneous release and the fast phase of evoked release may involve a common pool of SVs at the active zone. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.01180.001.
Pretreatment with intracoronary enalaprilat protects human myocardium during percutaneous coronary angioplasty.

Objectives We tested the hypothesis that enalaprilat induces preconditioning (PC)-mimetic actions in patients with stable coronary artery disease. Background Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors increase the bioavailability of bradykinin, which induces cardiac PC. Methods Twenty-two patients undergoing coronary angioplasty were randomized to an intracoronary infusion of enalaprilat or placebo, followed 10 min later by a PC protocol. Results In control patients, the ST-segment shift was greater during the first inflation than during the second and third inflations, both on the intracoronary electrocardiogram (ECG) (21.0 ± 2.8 mm vs. 13.0 ± 2.0 mm and 13.0 ± 2.0 mm, p Conclusions Pretreatment with enalaprilat attenuates the manifestations of myocardial ischemia during angioplasty. This is the first in vivo evidence showing that an ACE inhibitor protects human myocardium, possibly via PC-mimetics actions, a novel property that might explain the cardioprotective actions of these drugs.
Intestinal permeability after early postoperative enteral nutrition in patients with upper gastrointestinal malignancy.

BACKGROUND Increased intestinal permeability may lead to sepsis in resected upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients. This study sought to determine whether these patients demonstrated increased intestinal permeability and if early postoperative enteral nutrition would alter this result. METHODS Nineteen patients undergoing complete resection of upper GI malignancy were randomized into two groups: the nonfed group received IV crystalloid, and the fed group started enteral nutrition by jejunostomy on postoperative day (POD) 1. Six nonoperative volunteers were controls. The lactulose/mannitol test was performed on PODs 1 and 5. Ten grams of lactulose and 5 g of mannitol were given, and urine was collected for 6 hours. RESULTS All patients (nonfed, 1.895+/-0.34; fed, 0.893+/-0.24) had elevated lactulose/mannitol ratios on POD 1 vs controls (0.262+/-0.1; p < .008 and p = .05). These elevated levels returned toward control levels in both groups by day 5 (nonfed, 0.533+/-0.1, p = .06; fed, 0.606+/-0.12, p = .08). CONCLUSIONS Major upper GI surgery for malignancy resulted in a significant increase in intestinal permeability on POD 1. With or without enteral nutrition, this measure of intestinal permeability returned to normal on POD 5 in well-nourished patients.
The SUMO conjugation pathway in Populus: genomic analysis, tissue-specific and inducible SUMOylation and in vitro de-SUMOylation

Covalent attachment of the small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) to proteins in eukaryotic cells can regulate an assortment of cellular processes including transcription, and DNA-protein and protein-protein interactions. We identified gene models and found evidence for expression of genes involved in SUMOylation and SUMO deconjugation in Populus. We detected SUMOylated proteins in diverse organ and tissue types. SUMOylation was altered during responses to heat shock, desiccation, peroxide and irrigation of roots with high salt solution. SUMO deconjugation from substrates was sensitive to cysteine protease inhibitors. Product sizes and sensitivity to inhibitors are consistent with poly-SUMO chain formation as an intermediate step in SUMO redistribution to substrates in plant cells responding to treatments. The SUMOylation pathway is active in Populus and substrate conjugation to SUMO is a rapid response to multiple inducers.
Human Version 2.0 Between the “Banality” and “Ressentiment” of Neuroengineers

Neuroengineers such as Hugo de Garis propose to build artificial brains called “artilects” that go beyond the cybernetic model seeking to build “cyborgs.” Empirical research in this field raises moral questions to which both moral psychology and moral philosophy can contribute, especially to analysis of the motivations of a neuroengineering project such as that of de Garis. The problem is that while empirical results of recent moral psychology provide us with explanations and interpretations having empirical probability, they remain descriptive without resolving moral implications in the sense of having prescriptions on the central question whether the neuroengineering project should be pursued. Assuming neuroengineers can deliver on their projects by the mid- to late- 21st century, both the neuroscience community and philosophers have at least an epistemic (if not a moral) responsibility to engage the moral dimension of this scientific and technological quest.
Generalized Actuator Concept for the Study of the Efficiency of Energetic Systems

Energy efficiency is an important consideration for the success of many portable as well as other energetic systems. One way to improve the efficiency of an engineering system is through regeneration. A regenerative actuator returns some of the otherwise dissipated energy required for passive operation. The amount of regenerated energy will depend on the dissipation characteristics of the actuator and the regenerative potential of the process itself
Cloning and characterization of an electrogenic Na/HCO3− cotransporter from the squid giant fiber lobe

The squid giant axon is a classic model system for understanding both excitable membranes and ion transport. To date, a Na+-driven Cl-HCO3− exchanger, sqNDCBE—related to the SLC4 superfamily and cl...
Thermal refraction focusing in planar index-antiguided lasers

Thermal refraction focusing in planar index-antiguided lasers is investigated both theoretically and experimentally. An analytical model based on zero-field approximation is presented for treating the combined effects of index antiguiding and thermal focusing. At very low pumping power, the mode is antiguided by the amplifier boundary, whereas at high pumping power it narrows due to thermal focusing. Theoretical results are in reasonable agreement with experimental data.
Reduction theorem for the Type-II conjecture for finite monoids

We show that the Type-II conjecture for finite monoids can be reduced to the case that M is a block group (i.e. the regular J-classes J are such that J0 is inverse or, equivalently inverses, when they exist, are unique). Using this reduction theorem together with the exposition of Tilson, we give simpler proofs of one of the main theorems of Birget, Margolis and Rhodes. In fact, we prove (assuming the theorem of Ash) that MII′ = MII if MII′ is regular (the result of Birget, Margolis and Rhodes) or, more generally, if I1, I2 are ideals of MII′ implies I1I2 = I2I1, e.g. MII′ commutative, or, if the regular elements of MII′ form a submonoid and for every m ∈ MII′ the left and right activators are equal. Hence in these cases MII is proved computable (by showing MII = MII′). We also give a simple proof of Pin's theorem that his topological conjecture implies MII′ = MII. In a succeeding paper we use the reduction theorem to prove MII′ = MII when M is J-trivial or, more generally, when MII′ contains all the regular elements of M. The Type-II conjecture (that MII′ = MII) is still open. Our present opinions are given in the following introduction.
Integrating stage and continuum models to explain processing of exercise messages and exercise initiation among sedentary college students.

Concepts from the transtheoretical model (J.O. Prochaska, C.C. DiClemente, & J.C. Norcross, 1992), theory of planned behavior (I. Ajzen, 1985), and the elaboration likelihood model (R.E. Petty & J.T. Cacioppo, 1986b) were used to examine how exercise readiness impacted processing of exercise messages and exercise initiation. Sedentary college students (n = 147) were assessed for exercise attitude, intent, behavior, and stage of change. Students also listed their thoughts after reading messages with either strong or weak arguments for exercise. Attitude predicted depth of message processing, but stage of change did not. Stage of change and intent at baseline predicted exercise adoption at 1- to 3-month follow-up (n = 134), with baseline activity moderating the effect of intent. Tailoring messages to recipients' depth of processing and interactive effects of intent and behavior on exercise adoption should be considered in future research.
Effects of norflurazon (San 9789) on light‐increased extractable nitrate reductase activity in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]seedlings

Abstract. The effects of norflurazon (San 9789) on light-increased extractable NADH nitrate reductase activity (NRA) in soybean seedlings were studied. Continuous white light (W) increased NRA steadily in root and cotyledonary tissues over a 5 d period. Morflurazon, a pyridazinone herbicide which causes chlorophyll bleaching in W, reduced the initial NRA induction rate in roots and cotyledons. However, in cotyledons of norfiurazon-treated plants NRA increased at a more rapid rate than in the control after 24 h of W, with activity levels reaching three times those of control seedlings after 5 d. NRA induced by W in control and norflurazon-treated cotyledons was fluence-rate dependent. Continuous FR induced equal amounts of NRA in control and norflurazontreated tissues, suggesting that the superinduceable NRA of norflurazon-treated plants under W is not phytochrome induced. The FR-induced NRA of control and norflurazon-treated cotyledons had pH optima of 6.6, but during development under W the pH optimum of control cotyledons changed from 6.3 to between 6.6 and 7.1. The pH optimum of the norflurazon-induced NRA of the cotyledon under W was about 7.5. The NADH/NADPH NRA ratio after 4 d of W was 1.3 in control and 2.5 in norflurazontreated cotyledons. These data indicate that photosynthelic pigments are involved only secondarily in light-induction of NRA in this system.
Women’s Status and Fertility Differential in the World-System: A Cross-National Analysis

AbstractUsing World-System and Gender and Development theories to examine women’s status and fertility in the high fertility countries, I argue that fertility behavior is strongly related to an unequal power relationship between husbands and wives, which occurs because of a dependent economy. Dependent economy creates economic inequality and limits prospects for women’s upward mobility, which may be an important factor for maintaining high fertility. This research examines empirical data from 82 countries—where total fertility rate is higher than 2.1 per woman in a given nation. The study includes both semi-periphery and periphery regions with planned and market-oriented economies in order to investigate the influence of investment and dependent development on women’s status and fertility.
On Decentralized Control of Complex Feedback Systems

In this paper, we study the stability and performance robustness of composite feedback systems under decentralized control. It is shown that if the perturbed system transfer matrix is a composite H-matrix for every s on the Nyquist contour, then stabilization of the diagonal blocks of the composite system implies stabilization of the overall system provided the number of unstable poles of the composite system coincide with those of the diagonal blocks. This is then used to define dcentralized controllers for robust stability. When restricted to regular multivariable systems, the new criterion leads to an interesting and simple condition on the peak magnification factor M p of the closed loop system.
UNITED STATES BANK FAILURE POLICY

Bank failure in the USA is inextricably linked to the US system of federally administered deposit insurance, a fact that explains both its past successes and its recent limitations. Historically, the deposit insurance guarantee has reduced the risk of bank failures caused by panic rum by insured depositors, while the Government's dispositions of failed banks have minimised other forms of market disruption resulting from bank failure. Recently, however, the escalating cost of failure resolution has increased political pressure to limit public intervention in failed banks to the narrow function of protecting insured depositors. This paper describes how this constraint is likely to affect future Governmental response to bank failure.
Preferred intraarticular corticosteroids and associated practice: a survey of members of the American College of Rheumatology.

Objective. To determine which intraarticular steroids are used by rheumatologists and whether this use and associated practice vary with time and place of training. Method. American College of Rheumatology members were mailed questionnaires that focused on steroid use in the adult knee. Results. The steroids favored by the respondents were methylprednisolone acetate (MPA), preferred most by those trained in the eastern U.S.; triamcinolone hexacetonide (TH), preferred by those trained in the Midwest and Southwest; and triamcinolone acetonide (TA), preferred by those trained in the West. Only TH was chosen primarily because of efficacy. Regardless of concentration, respondents used 1 ml of steroid. Most (especially those recently trained) combined steroid with local anesthetic. Post-injection instructions varied: 29% did not restrict weight-bearing; 8% recommended limited weight-bearing for 1 week or more. Conclusion. MPA, TH, and TA were favored. Associated techniques varied, based in part on where and when training took place. Research is needed to provide a more rational basis for clinical practice.
THE MOHR AND MAJEWSKI SYNDROMES: OVERLAPPING PHENOTYPES

The Mohr syndrome (oral-facial-digital syndrome, type II) and the Majewski syndrome (a form of short rib-polydactyly) are currently described as separate dysmorphic syndromes with autosonal recessive inheritance. The Mohr syndrome is characterized by median cleft of the upper lip, cleft tongue, oral hamartomas, bimanual polydactyly, hallucal reduplication and a normal lifespan. The Majewski syndrome is characterized by cleft lip, hypoplastic epiglottis, short ribs, genitourinary anomalies, mesomelic brachymelia, pre- and postaxial polydactyly and death in infancy. We studied two unrelated female infants with features common to both syndromes. One had median pseudocleft of the upper lip, lingual nodules, short ribs, urogenital sinus, hydrometrocolpos, short tibias and hallucal reduplication. She failed to thrive and died at 4 months of age. The second infant had median pseudocleft of the upper lip, lingual nodules, micrognathia, epiglottic hypoplasia, pre- and postaxial polydactyly and hallucal reduplication. Despite tracheostomy, she died at 11 months of age. On post-mortem exam a single atrium and ventricular septal defect were found. Both infants had orofacial and digital features typical of the Mohr syndrome. However, one had the skeletal and genitourinary abnormalities and the other, the hypoplastic epiglottis of the Majewski syndrome. The presence in our patients of anomalies typical of the Mohr and Majewski syndromes may indicate that these syndromes represent two extremes of the same disorder.
Charge density differences between pairs of isotones

Abstract Elastic electron scattering experiments have recently determined the nuclear charge densities for several pairs of isotones. It is found that the single particle shell model can readily explain the differences between these densities even though the model does not reproduce the individual total densities well.
Abnormal Left Ventricular Contraction in Patients with Mitral Stenosis

Twenty-five patients with pure mitral stenosis and nine normal subjects were studied by selective left ventricular cineangiocardiography. Left ventricular volumes were measured at end systole, throughout diastole, and at end diastole. Although filling curves showed that the left ventricles filled slowly in patients with mitral stenosis, normal end-diastolic volumes were attained provided diastole lasted 400 msec. Despite normal end-diastolic volumes, end-systolic volumes were significantly larger (P < 0.0005) in the patients with mitral stenosis (av=64.6 ml) than in normal subjects (30.8 ml). Correspondingly, left ventricular ejection fractions were significantly lower (P < 0.0005) in the patients with mitral stenosis (55.7%) than in the normal subjects (76.7%). Qualitative analysis of the cineangiocardiograms demonstrated that 20 patients with mitral stenosis had distortion, immobility, and rigidity of the posterobasal area of the left ventricle. It is hypothesized that a rigid "mitral complex" immobiliz...
Live free or die: stretch-induced apoptosis occurs when adaptive reorientation of annulus fibrosus cells is restricted.

Abstract High matrix strains in the intervertebral disc occur during physiological motions and are amplified around structural defects in the annulus fibrosus (AF). It remains unknown if large matrix strains in the human AF result in localized cell death. This study investigated strain amplitudes and substrate conditions where AF cells were vulnerable to stretch-induced apoptosis. Human degenerated AF cells were subjected to 1 Hz-cyclic tensile strains for 24 h on uniformly collagen coated substrates and on substrates with 40 μm stripes of collagen that restricted cellular reorientation. AF cells were capable of responding to stretch (stress fibers and focal adhesions aligned perpendicular to the direction of stretch), but were vulnerable to stretch-induced apoptosis when cytoskeletal reorientation was restricted, as could occur in degenerated states due to fibrosis and crosslink accumulation and at areas where high strains occur (around structural defects, delaminations, and herniations).
Human placental alkaline phosphatase: molecular weight and subunit structure.

Abstract The molecular weight of human placental alkaline phosphatase and its subunits was investigated. The results were compared to those obtained with Escherichia coli alkaline phosphatase since its subunit structure has been well studied. These studies show that the placental enzyme like the E. Coli enzyme is a dimer. It has a mol. wt. of 116 000 and is composed of monomer subunits having an identical mol. wt. of 58 000. The E. coli phosphatase gave a mol. wt. of 90 500 for the native enzyme and 45 000 for the monomer.
Fabrication and Characterization of Bulk Nanocrystalline Layer in Steel and Aluminum Alloys Formed by Shot Peening

The formation of bulk nanocrystalline (NC) layers in AISI 1075 pearlitic and martensitic steels and aluminum alloys 6061-T6 and 7075 using air blast shot peening was studied. The cross-sectional microstructure of the samples showed a gradual reduction of the grain size near the surface. The NC layers were characterized using optical and scanning electron microscopy and nanohardness measurements. 2D surface topography of the top surface was also carried out. The roughness of the peened surfaces depends on sample hardness. The hardened AISI 1075 martensitic steel had lower surface roughness value. NC layers of 5 to 15 μm thickness were observed in the steels whereas the aluminum alloys 6061 and 7075 yielded NC layers up to 20 to 25 μm thick. The measured nanohardness in the NC layers confirmed the higher hardness of the NC layer compared with the bulk material.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Leading With Soul: An Uncommon Journey of Spirit

In Individualism: Old and New (published by Minton, Balch, and Company, 1930) John Dewey characterizes early pioneer American individualism as an outlook that extols the virtues of self-reliance and personal independence. Although private economic profit is an important end in the spirit of the old individualism, where honest pursuit of one’s vocation helps to define the American consciousness, monetary gain has become the chief goal of the new individualism, a dominant view of the modern Machine Age society. This overemphasis on pecuniary gain has undercut the perception of the individual as a distinctive revered being, Dewey argues. Those at the apex of the industrial hierarchy, the few who hold considerable power and influence, are ruled by external forces in the powerful corporation as much as those who are at the bottom. They, as well as their underlings, have become enslaved by avarice and profit.
Leptomeningeal disease and breast cancer: The importance of tumor subtype

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common tumors to involve the leptomeninges. We aimed to characterize clinical features and outcomes of patients with LMD based on BC subtypes. We retrospectively reviewed records of 233 patients diagnosed with LMD from BC between 1997 and 2012. Survival was estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method and significant differences in survival were determined by Cox proportional hazards or log-rank tests. Of 190 patients with BC subtype available, 67 (35 %) had hormone receptor positive (HR+)/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative BC, 56 (29 %) had HER2+BC, and 67 (35 %) had triple-negative BC (TNBC). Median age at LMD diagnosis was 50 years. Median overall survival (OS) from LMD diagnosis was 4.4 months for HER2+BC (95 % CI 2.8, 6.9), 3.7 months (95 % CI 2.4, 6.0) for HR+/HER2−BC, and 2.2 months (95 % CI 1.5, 3.0) for TNBC (p = 0.0002). Older age was associated with worse outcome (p < 0.0001). Patients with HER2+BC and LMD were more likely to receive systemic therapy (ST) (p = 0.001). Use of intrathecal therapy (IT) (52 %) was similar (p = 0.35). Both IT (p < 0.0001) and ST (p < 0.0001) administration were associated with improved OS. After adjusting for age, IT, extracranial disease, and ST, patients with HER2+BC had better OS compared with HR+/HER2−BC (HR 1.72; 95 %CI 1.07–2.76) and TNBC (HR 3.30; 95 %CI 1.98–5.52). LMD carries a dismal prognosis. Modest survival differences by tumor subtype were seen. Patients with HER2+BC had the best outcome. There is an urgent need to develop effective treatment strategies.
On extractors, error-correction and hiding all partial information

Randomness extractors (Nisan and Zuckerman, 1996) allow one to obtain nearly perfect randomness from highly imperfect sources randomness, which are only known to contain "scattered" entropy. Not surprisingly, such extractors have found numerous applications in many areas of computer science including cryptography. Aside from extracting randomness, a less known usage of extractors comes from the fact that they hide all deterministic functions of their (high-entropy) input (Dodis and Smith, 2005): in other words, extractors provide certain level of privacy for the imperfect source that they use. In the latter kind of applications, one typically needs extra properties of extractors, such as invertibility, collision-resistance or error-correction. In this abstract we survey some of such usages of extractors, concentrating on several recent results by the author (Dodis et al., 2004 and Dodis and Smith, 2005). The primitives we survey include several flavors of randomness extractors, entropically secure encryption and perfect one-way hash functions. The main technical tools include several variants of the leftover hash lemma, error correcting codes, and the connection between randomness extraction and hiding all partial information. Due to space constraints, many important references and results are not mentioned here; interested reader can find those in the works of Dodis et al. (2004) and Dodis and Smith (2005)
Electrochemical detection of the oxidation of alcohols by N -hydroxyethylethylenediamminetriacetatoruthenate(IV)

The oxidation of [RuIII(hedta)(H2O)]=(1) to its RuIV monomeric complex at a glassy carbon electrode is abserved to promote oxidation of alcohols bearing an a-hydrogen (i-PrOH benzyl alcohol,sec-phenethyl alcohol). Tertiary substitution blocks the oxidation (t-BuOH). The oxidation of the alcohols is detected by an enhancement in the current of the RuIV/III waves at potentials above 0.96V, caused by scavenging (reduction) of RuIV by the alcohols. Binuclear complexes which possess RuIV bridged by oxo to either a second RuIV or to RuIII in species of composition [LRuORuL]n−, L=hedta3−, fail to oxidize the alcohols. The terminal oxo moiety attached to RuIV is postulated to facilitate the oxidation of primary and secondary alcohols in a manner analogous to Meyer's [RuO(trpy)(bpy)]2+ catalyst. The dissociation of the (III,IV) binuclear complex into its monomers provides a pathway which increases catalytic activity at the expense of the inactive (III, IV) binuclear complex's concentration.
Treatment of occipital neuralgia by partial posterior rhizotomy at C1–3

✓ To minimize the sensory loss associated with intradural posterior rhizotomy for medically refractory occipital neuralgia, partial sectioning of the upper cervical posterior rootlets was performed in 11 patients. The ventrolateral aspect of each posterior rootlet from C-1 to the upper portion of C-3 was divided at the root entry zone. In three patients with bilateral neuralgia, the procedure was performed on both sides, for a total of 14 partial rhizotomy procedures in the 11 patients. This resulted in satisfactory preservation of scalp sensation in all cases. Pain within the territory of the greater occipital nerve was consistently reduced or abolished by this procedure. The overall degree of pain relief was rated good or excellent after 10 of the 14 procedures. The other four procedures alleviated pain in the territory of the greater occipital nerve, but the results were marred by persistent periorbital or temporal pain. Two patients subsequently underwent complete C1–3 posterior rhizotomy without furt...